FOOTIE CIRCUS

Watch Live Games Here... La Liga Serie A. Barclays Premier League...

2010-08-29T10:07:00.001-07:00

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Good Morning folkes.. Leagues of Europe are on their way and the Below link Carries you to all the live streaming actions of the day.. Enjoy..

Live Streaming Barclays Premier League Matches

Done Deal... Milan Signs Ibrahimovic

2010-08-29T09:04:00.000-07:00

Mission accomplished then for Silvio Berlusconi who last month said if there was a chance to land a megastar he "would do so".

A statement on the Rossoneri's official website reads:

"AC Milan would like to communicate they have signed Zlatan Ibrahimovic from Barcelona on a loan deal with the right to an option to buy him after the 2010/2011 season for the sum of €24m.

"He will have a medical on Monday and then sign his contract."

Adriano Galliani also confirmed the figures of the deal and how Milan have obtained the player.

He told the press in Barcelona: "Yes we have defined the acquisition on loan with right to buy at €24m. The player will sign his contract on Monday.

"That is the figure we will pay over three years of €8m. I want to thank all of Milan and Silvio Berlusconi who made a big effort for this operation."

Ibrahimovic added: "Milan are one of the strongest clubs in the world. We have a fantastic attack."

"I am a Milan player. I am really happy that everything has turned out for the best. They had a fantastic season last year, and I have nothing to say to the Inter supporters.

"This move gives me more adrenaline. I have moved here to win the Champions League with Milan. I want to win the double."

And, of course, a week of ups and downs wouldn't be complete without a comment from Mino Raiola.

"Galliani has done really well to drop Barcelona’s price tag from €70m to €24m."

The deal is a scoop for Milan who have obtained a massive discount on the fee after Barcelona paid Inter around €66m for the striker last year when he joined them from Inter.

Newcastle Sign Hatem Ben Arfa

2010-08-28T07:53:00.000-07:00

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Newcastle United have confirmed they have finally secured a season-long loan deal for Olympique de Marseille midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa.

After weeks of speculation, the 23-year-old has completed a loan move to Chris Hughton’s side, with a view to a permanent deal; Ben Arfa has been handed the No.37 shirt.

Speaking to the club’s official website, the French international expressed his delight at clinching a move to Tyneside.

"It was always my first choice to come here and I'm delighted to be here,” he said.

"I've paid real attention to the history of the club and the great players to have played for it, and particularly the supporters and I want to showcase my skills in Newcastle.

"All I'm waiting for is to show what I can do in front of the public in Newcastle. A lot of my friends in France already know the fans' reputation.

"The stadium has an ambience that is unique and I feel very lucky to have his opportunity.”

Manager Hughton revealed he was hoping to hand Ben Arfa his debut against Blackpool on September 11 and believed his new signing would bring some flair to the newly-promoted outfit.

“Hatem is a player who we have been tracking for a long time, and what is important is that he is not only a young player who should continue to improve, but somebody who already has a great reputation in the game,” he added.

"We think he will add flair to the squad and we're confident he'll fit in well with the team that we have put together here. He will, I am sure, prove to be a great addition.

"He won't be available to face Wolves at the weekend, but he'll come into my thinking for the next game at home to Blackpool. He's someone who will excite the fans here, who of course have always identified with skilful, attacking players."

Watch Live Games/ La Liga/Serie A/ EPL

2010-08-28T03:54:00.000-07:00

Image by voxeros via Flickr

Good Morning folkes.. The Barclays Premier League is on the way and the Below link Carries you to all the live streaming actions of the day.. Enjoy..

Live Streaming Barclays Premier League Matches

Top 10 Youngsters to Watch For 2010/2011

2010-08-27T05:02:00.000-07:00

Sercan Yildirim

Age: 20

Club: Bursaspor

Country: Turkey

Position: Forward

The 20-year-old has been on the books of the Turkish champions since 2006 and has represented his nation at every level from under-15 up. The striker has already been capped at senior level, scoring twice from five appearances. Yildirim has been earmarked as the Turkish league's brightest young talent and featured heavily in his side's maiden triumph last season. Sercan stands close 1.82m and boasts a fine physique; he is a versatile forward, who can also feature in a withdrawn role and even on the wing. His name is well known amongst the scouts of Europe's elite clubs include the Manchester rivals, City and United.

Douglas Costa
Age: 19
Club: Shakhtar Donetsk
Country: Brazil
Position: Attacking midfield

The 2009 South America Youth Championship winner was a much sought after prospect before his rather surprising move east to the Brazilian colony at Shakhtar last winter. A subdued first six months at the club has segued into a more productive second half of 2010. His explosive turn of pace and very skilled left foot make him an incredibly dangerous member of Shakhtar's attack. Mircea Lucescu has used him on both wings, with his ability to cut inside from the right providing an ancillary goal threat. Still a little inconsistent, but revelling in the liberal attacking environment that Lucescu has created in Donetsk.

Christian Eriksen
Age: 18
Club: Ajax
Country: Denmark
Position: Midfield

Ajax have one of the most fearsome attacking duos in the competition in the shape of Mounir el Hamdaoui and Luis Suarez but the support cast is worth keeping an eye on too. Christian Eriksen, the teenager signed from Odense, is rated as one of the club's best products in recent seasons. He made his breakthrough last term but is set for a bigger role in Amsterdam this campaign. Eriksen is comfortable with the ball at either foot and is capable of finding the right pass to unlock defences. Recently, the youngster has been recommended to Arsenal by Dennis Bergkamp.

Samuel Inkoom
Age: 21
Club: FC Basel
Country: Ghana
Position: Right-back/ Right midfield

Though the versatile Ghanaian shone mostly as a right winger in the Black Stars' 4-2-3-1 formation, it is as a right-back that he has impressed for the Swiss champions. After an outstanding under-20 World Cup, his career has come on in and leaps and bounds and he was a stellar performer for Basel as they clinched the double last term. Having been likened to the Ivory Coast and Arsenal player Emmanuel Eboue, there are still slight question marks over his defensive capabilities, which he will hope to erase in the coming Champions League campaign.

Toni Kroos
Age: 20
Club: Bayern Munich
Country: Germany
Position: Midfield

Back in Bavaria after a fruitful season on loan at Bayer Leverkusen, Toni Kroos is one of a number of outstanding young players ready to form the 'new' Bayern. Along with Holger Badstuber, Diego Contento, David Alaba and Thomas Mueller, FC Hollywood have a nucleus of talent to lead the club into the next decade. However, Kroos is ready to deliver on his potential this season. A physically strong midfielder with a keen eye for a pass, Kroos has thus far commanded a starting berth in the enforced absence of Arjen Robben. Featured for Germany at the World Cup, albeit sporadically.

Jack Wilshere
Age: 18
Club: Arsenal
Country: England
Position: Attacking midfield

The latest player to be burdened with the 'future of England' tag, nonetheless, the even-tempered midfielder is taking it all in his stride. He was loaned to Bolton Wanderers last season and made sufficient impact for Arsene Wenger to introduce him to first team football at the Emirates this season. The Arsenal-schooled prospect enjoyed a fantastic youth career and could deliver on his promise this season. A creative presence, Wilshere has the composure of a player twice his age and is not afraid to mix it physically either.

Timothée Kolodziejczak
Age: 18
Club: Olympique Lyonnais
Country: France
Position: Left-back

The defender is part of a clutch of bright young talent on the OL books with Yanis Tafer, Clement Grenier and Alexandre Lacazette also plying their trade at the Stade de Gerland. Kolodziejczak was an integral component of France's under-19 European championship win earlier this summer with a series of responsible, assured performances on the left flank and has previously been linked with a transfer to Manchester United. He could find himself thrust into the Champions League limelight ahead of schedule this season with Aly Cissokho's hamstring injury threatening his participation in the early rounds of the tournament.

Philippe Coutinho
Age: 18
Club: Inter
Country: Brazil
Position: Wide-attacker/ attacking midfield

The Rio de Janeiro native has been described as 'the future of Inter', having been signed by the Italian club in 2008. Coutinho has spent two years in his homeland on loan at Vasco de Gama, where he has steadily increased his reputation as a teenage prodigy. Standing only 1.72m, the Vasco academy graduate is nonetheless sturdy on his feet and is possessed of solid balance. One of his greatest atrributes is his two-footedness; Coutinho's opponents have no idea whether he will go left or right and he is equally comfortable delivering shots off either side too. Coutinho has been nominated by the new Brazil coach Mano Menezes for a September training camp.

Jano Ananidze
Age: 17
Club: Spartak Moscow
Country: Georgia
Position: Attacking midfield

The Georgian was used sparingly during the 2009 season but is rapidly becoming a key first-team player for The Meat this term. Standing barely 1.72m and with the frame of a gymnast, Jano has some problems holding off more agricultural opponents. However, with the ball at his feet, there can be no denying his passing capabilities and vision. Juventus, Milan, Sevilla and Arsenal have all kept tabs on Jano since he first broke into Spartak's first-team ranks. The Moscow based club have their frailties but with Alex, Aiden McGeady and Welliton also among their number, they should be able to score goals relatively freely.

Sergio Canales
Age: 19
Club: Real Madrid
Country: Spain
Position: Midfield

Long hailed as one of the outstanding young talents in Spain, Canales has made the step up from Racing Santander to Real Madrid over the course of the summer. He has been actively involved in Jose Mourinho's pre-season plans following his impressive run to the finals of the Under-19 European Championships with Spain. Along with Angel Di Maria and Pedro Leon, Canales represents the youthful future of the capital club and is already no stranger to the sharp end of Liga action. Last season he scored six times in 26 appearances for his hometown club, including a stunning brace against Sevilla. The attacking midfielder displays excellent technical skills and a delicate touch in possession. He can shoot and pass off either foot too.

Champions League Group Stage Draws

2010-08-26T10:24:00.000-07:00

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Group A

Internazionale
Werder Bremen
Tottenham Hotspur

FC Twente

Group B

Lyon
Benfica
Schalke
Hapoel Tel-Aviv

Group C

Manchester United
Valencia
Rangers

Buraspor

Group D

Barcelona
Panathinaikos
Copenhagen
Rubin Kazan

Group E

Bayern Munich
Roma
FC Basel
CFR Cluj

Group F

Chelsea

Marseille
Spartak Moscow
MSK Zilina

Group G

AC Milan
Real Madrid
Ajax
Auxerre

Group H

Arsenal

Shakhtar Donetsk
SC Braga
FK Partizan

Real Madrid Offer Diarra to Liverpool

2010-08-26T10:15:00.000-07:00

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Real Madrid have handed Liverpool an instant replacement for wantaway midfielder Javier Mascheranoby offering Mahamadou Diarra, according toskysports.com.

Diarra, 29, is surplus to requirements at the Bernabeu after the arrival of Germany World Cup 2010 star Sami Khedira. The Mali international has struggled for form and fitness since joining from Lyon in 2006 but remains highly rated.

Mascherano is poised for the exit door as Barcelona attempt to agree a fee and Diarra's cheap price could appeal to the Anfield outfit as Roy Hodgson seeks to renovate his squad.

Goal.com

Squillaci Signs For Arsenal..

2010-08-26T10:03:00.000-07:00

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has today confirmed the signing of French centre-back Sebastien Squillaci fromSevilla.

The Spanish club had announced at the weekend that a £6.5 million deal had been agreed between the clubs, nd today the Gunners have announced the capture of the French international

The 30-year-old centre-back will not be available for the weekend game against Blackburn Rovers but he will be eligible for the Champions League campaign, after he was left out of Sevilla's play-off with Sporting Braga.

Speaking in a press conference today, Wenger stated that he is in no doubt the Gunners have acquired a fine player who will suit the fast-paced style of the Premier League.

"We needed a centre-back of quality and experience if possible, and at the right price - he was all of that," Wenger told reporters.

"He is a real defender and is good in the one against one, good in the air, and can score goals on set-pieces as well.

"I believe he will be suited to the English game. He will train with us tomorrow morning, but will not be involved on Saturday."

Squillaci moved to Sevilla in the summer of 2008 from Ligue 1 side Lyon, and has been capped 21 times for France.

WAS BEBE SIGNING A MISTAKE BY MANCHESTER UNITED??

2010-08-25T11:53:00.000-07:00

Bebé was the first player Alex Ferguson signed as Manchester United manager without seeing him play or watching him on video. Photograph: Martin Rickett/PA

When Manchester United made Bebé the most improbable signing of the summer Sir Alex Ferguson argued there was no risk attached, explaining that "sometimes you just have to go with instinct". Yet a fortnight on, the striker's career at Old Trafford has got off to a false start, his performances in training deemed so poor he was not even considered for a reserve fixture last night.

Bebé, signed from the Portuguese club Vitória de Guimarães for £7.4m, was conspicuously absent when United's second team took on the Elite Squad – Manchester City's new name for their reserves – in Hyde. This was supposed to be the first chance for Ferguson to see the 20-year-old in match action but the United manager reconsidered after discussion with the reserves' coach, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The first disappointment for Bebé may not be entirely unexpected given the strange circumstances of the transfer. After an undistinguished spell at the Portuguese Third Division club Estrala da Amadora he was available on a free transfer seven weeks ago, but United did not sign the player, affiliated to the influential agent Jorge Mendes, until after he had joined Guimarães, paying the full €9m buy-out clause.

On top of that, Ferguson subsequently admitted Bebé was the first player he had signed in 24 years as manager at Old Trafford without seeing him play or watching him on video. Instead, the Scot said he had taken the word of scouts as well as Portugal's manager, Carlos Queiroz, formerly his assistant at Old Trafford. "It was one of those decisions that had to be made quickly, so I made it quickly," Ferguson said. "I don't think it's a risk."

According to the United manager, Real Madrid and Benfica were also interested in the striker but after the big build-up, the Guardian has established that the first impressions of Bebé have been below expectations. In particular, his touch and control has not been of the standard the club demands – hence his absence from a reserve fixture that saw Anderson make his comeback after six months out with a knee injury. It is understood there have been meetings in which the coaches have expressed misgivings about how long it might be before Bebé can challenge for a first-team place consistently.

The hope at Old Trafford is that he will improve once he is fitter and more confident. Bebé was always identified as a player for the future and Ferguson already has Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov, Michael Owen, Javier Hernández and Federico Macheda in attack.

Ironically, Bebé has been lined up to make his first appearance for his country against England in an Under-21 European Championship qualifier on 3 September.

Guardian.co.uk

ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC CLOS E TO MILAN DEAL

2010-08-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

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Adriano Galliani has had lunch with Barcelona chiefs and confirmed the Italian club are serious about bringingZlatan Ibrahimovic to Milan.

Galliani was in the company of Milan director Ariedo Braida and the two were then joined by Barcelona chief Sandro Rosell, and sports director Andoni Zubizaretta.

And the meal of the day was to cook up talks for Ibrahimovic, who has long been on Milan's menu. Galliani then gave the press a bellyful of answers that confirm the club's will to snap up the star.

"I will stay in Barcelona tomorrow to deal, as negotiations have now started and we can continue to talk," he told the press.

"There is no need to be positive or negative. We had lunch and we have started to talk, but there is still plenty in the way.

"We have to wait a long time before we can close a deal. Have I spoken with 'Ibra'? No, not yet. I want to bring him back with me to Milan."

Galliani did not elaborate on the specifications of his dinner date with Blaugrana chiefs, but what is certain is that there could be major developments between now and the end of the transfer window next week.

Earlier La Gazzetta dello Sport claimed the Italian would indeed be meeting Blaugrana chief Sandro Rosell as negotiations developed.

Galliani has already confirmed talks could last all week and he is prepared to squeeze the Catalans into a deal.

"If there was a need then I could stay there and negotiate until August 31," he said.

The operation though is likely to raise some uncomfortable questions for the chief as Barcelona are not keen on losing their man in a loan deal.

Milan want a swap loan deal between 'Ibra' and Marco Borriello as they cannot afford a cash transfer, but the Catalans seem reluctant to take the Italian.

Ibrahimovic's agent has made it clear his client was not prepared to move on loan and said only a permanent deal could lift the transfer off the ground.

"No loan deals unless its for four years. Ibrahimovic will only leave if it's a permanent deal, but for now we have no agreements with Milan," said Raiola.

Sky Sport Italia now report that Milan have left for Barcelona from Malpensa airport this morning.

They head to Camp Nou for the Gamper Trophy. Galliani though was not with the squad. He will fly out from Pisa later and meet them in Spain.

The event will allow Galliani to rub shoulders with his Spanish colleagues, but there is still a major barrier between the two clubs over the Sweden hitman.

Massimiliano Allegri hinted Ibrahimovic's possible arrival wouldn't make a difference to his plans for the season.

"It doesn't matter whether he arrives or not," were his brief words to Sky Sport Italia.

Manchester City are also keeping tabs on developments, but voices in Italy suggest the striker would prefer a Serie A return.

goal.com

City Flogs Toothless Liverpool..

2010-08-23T16:18:00.000-07:00

Gareth Barry celebrates scoring Manchester City's opening goal against Liverpool. Photograph: Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto

Manchester City did far more than take their first Premier League victory of this campaign. They claimed the win by the sort of margin associated with sides who are viewed as credible candidates for the major prizes.

Luck also went against Liverpool here on occasion, but the home crowd had its glimpse of the spectacle that is now demanded here. In patches at least, the flow and danger were obvious. Time, too, is in the side that is clearly taking shape.

Before a watching Sheikh Mansour, City's benefactor even more than its owner, there was an opulent opening goal as early as the 13th minute. Visitors known for their rigour were still left powerless by the fluency of a move that also showed surprising understanding in a line-up that remains under development.

Adam Johnson, in his first start of the campaign, slid a pass between Milan Jovanovic and Daniel Agger, with James Milner, on his debut, slipped into space on the right before pulling the cross back for Gareth Barry to side-foot the ball into the net.

The breakthrough appeared to augur well, but City showed little further interest in laying on a spectacle before the interval. That was not so very great a surprise. Roberto Mancini has tried to look methodical and even downbeat in his management, as if he could personally offset the bemusement and disbelief that swirls around a club of unequalled means.

The prosaic streak was its broadest when he opened the Premier League campaign with a cautious approach at White Hart Lane.

Even if he was wilfully refusing to play to the gallery, a goalless draw must have been entirely satisfactory against Tottenham Hotspur, who beat City to the spot in the Champions League qualifiers.

A first home fixture of the campaign, against Liverpool, seemed to demand that Mancini reveal more of his intentions. Circumspection could not be the order of the day when Milner, signed from Aston Villa in a deal valued at £26m, was making his debut on the left wing.

Nonsensical as it sounds after all the outlay, City, however, can be as rueful as any other club when a player is missing. Mario Balotelli, a £24m acquisition from Internazionale, might have been of use, but a striker who, on his debut, scored the only goal of the away match with Timisoara in the Europa League was ruled out with a knee problem.

Momentum and credibility for City can only have their origin in victories and those results, above all, must come in a steady flow at this stadium, yet they hardly reduced the visitors to panic in the first half. Liverpool were a good test of City's means.

They were bound to be obstinate under the management of that formidable organiser Roy Hodgson, even if the manager did not have Javier Mascherano in his squad as conjecture swelled of an imminent move to Barcelona.

The visitors, with Fernando Torres making his first start for the club since Spain's World Cup triumph, was paired with the improving David Ngog. Hodgson's conundrum lay in the inability of his team to advance with purpose. Shortly before half-time, Torres did set up Steven Gerrard for a drive that flew offside.

The incident did not amount to much, but it should have sufficed to remind City that victory was not assured. Mancini is still to establish a style that will make visitors quake. He will have to do so since clubs such as Chelsea and Manchester United, who truly see themselves as champions in waiting, can inflict terror on visitors. City did well enough initially but there was nothing then to make Liverpool despair completely.

The real sense that the match was slipping out of their reach did not come until City extended their lead in the 53rd minute. A Micah Richards header was forced in off Glen Johnson. Hodgson's team did not lack the spirit to react and attempts from Ngog and Torres in succession came back off the post. But it did not look feasible that City, for all their previous history of eccentricity, would fail here.

Their third goal duly arrived. Martin Skrtl's challenge brought down Adam Johnson in the 67th minute and Tevez converted the penalty in his usual forthright manner. The winger Johnson had shown in the incident the incident the elusiveness that makes him a crucial figure, even if he did come at the cost of a mere £7m from Middlesbrough.

Liverpool, for their part, were unlucky as well as outmatched and the substitute Ryan Babel was, for instance, no sooner on the pitch for Torres than his shot from the right cannoned off the post. All the same, City had an effectivness here that had nothing at all to do with luck

Guardian.co.uk

Manchester United Preparing Bid for Buffon

2010-08-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

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After already having turned down a switch to Manchester City this summer, it seems that Gianluigi Buffon could still yet have a future in the north of England following recent reports in the News Of The World.

Sir Alex Ferguson has always been a long admirer of the Italian goalkeeper and it is now believed Manchester United are lining up an €18 million bid for Buffon.

The English giants are well aware that current custodian Edwin Van der Sar must eventually be replaced given that he will turn 40 in October. However, much depends on the success of new Juve coach Luigi Del Neri, who took over the Italian giants this summer.

Should the tactician manage to install some stability at the club, it is likely that the Bianconeri will look to cash in on Buffon, who has struggled with a number of back injuries over the last twelve months.

Goal.com

6-6-6 Newcastle Scores The Third 6-0 Victory As They Rout Aston Villa.

2010-08-22T07:53:00.000-07:00

Newcastle 6 - 0 Aston Villa

Like Didier Drogba and Theo Walcott before him, Andy Carroll grabbed a hat-trick and Kevin Nolan scored twice as Newcastle thrashed Aston Villa.

Joey Barton gave the Magpies the lead when he thumped in from 20 yards before Nolan headed in on the half-hour mark and Carroll drilled in to make it 3-0.

Carroll scored his second from similar distance after the break, Nolan hooked in the fifth from close range before Carroll swept in his third late on.

John Carew wasted Villa's best chance when he blazed his penalty over at 0-0.

The MESSIAH is Back!!!

2010-08-21T15:02:00.000-07:00

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Barcelona rendered the 1st Leg defeat meaningless as they outclassed a poor Sevilla side thanks to a hat-trick from Lionel Messi and an own goal courtesy of Abdoulay Konko.

From the whistle Barcelona were camped in the Sevilla half and it didn't take long before Barca took the lead, thanks to an own goal. Pedro slalomed between two Sevilla defenders as he rushed into the penalty area, his cut-back cross was cruelly slotted home by Sevilla defender Konko.

Knowing they were still behind on aggregate the home team continued to pile on the pressure and got their just rewards ten minutes later as Xavi played a beautiful 20 yard slide-rule pass directly through the heart of the Sevilla backline and Lionel Messi was there to collect the ball and slot home past a stranded Andres Palop.

The Rojiblancos were stunned and game was beginning to resemble a training exercise as the La Liga champions dominated possession and territory. Sevilla couldn't get near the ball in midfield as Xavi completely ran the game.

Then some truly mesmerising play from Barca, Dani Alves playing a one-two down the right side, cutting in at the edge of the 18 yard box, onto his left foot he crossed low for Messi at the near post whose run was exquisitely time and he fired into the roof of the net past a helpless Palop.

More of the same ensued in the second half with Barcelona zipping the ball round with ease.

David Villa made his debut for his new team and looked at ease on the left side of the front three, but he was denied a goal by Palop who palmed his volley out for a corner.

Sevilla did though find some rhythm thanks to the introduction of Luis Fabiano, the Brazilians movement and presence much more effective than Negredo.

The game did open up in the final 15 minutes as Sevilla pushed for a goal, with Jesus Navas seeing more of the ball as the Rojiblancos but Barca were always dangerous on the counter.

Messi then wrapped up the match and grabbed his hat-track in the 89th minute as Barcelona went on to life the Super Cup.

Sevilla will now look to pick themselves up against Braga in the 2nd Leg of their Champions League Qualifier on and Barcelona play Racing Santander in La Liga on the 29th August

Goal.com

Gallas Making Tottenham Switch

2010-08-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Tottenham are on the verge of signing former Arsenal and Chelsea defender William Gallas on a free transfer.

The 33-year-old France international is to undergo a medical on Friday after agreeing terms on a one-year deal with an option to extend.

"He's a no-brainer on a free transfer," said boss Harry Redknapp.

"He's never asked for big money here. The chairman's agreed a one-year contract with him and the wages are more than reasonable."

It is understood that Gallas has agreed to take a wage cut to join Spurs after rejecting an offer from Arsenal over the summer that amounted to a pay cut and shortened deal.

We are thankful for what he has done for us and we wish him good luck in his new club

Arsene Wenger

Redknapp is unworried by the defender's connections to either Arsenal or Chelsea. Gallas spent four years at the Gunners, having spent five years at Stamford Bridge before that.

"It's all cobblers," said Redknapp. "What's he done? It's not the Yorkshire Ripper I'm signing, is it? He's a footballer, he plays football."

The Spurs boss added: "He's not the first player to go from Arsenal to Tottenham or Tottenham to Arsenal. It happens all the time.

"He's a great lad as well, smashing fellow. I've been absolutely really impressed with him."

"He'll improve Tottenham and that's all I'm concerned about."

OTHERS WHO HAVE CROSSED THE NORTH LONDON DIVIDE

Jimmy Robertson (Spurs 1964-48/Arsenal 1968-70):The only player to score for both teams in the derby

Steve Walford (Spurs 1975-77/Arsenal 1977-81): Just two Tottenham appearances before Gunners boss Terry Neill took him to Highbury

Pat Jennings (Spurs 1964-77/Arsenal 1977-85): The legendary Northern Irish goalkeeper won the FA Cup with either club (1967 and 1979)

Sol Campbell (Spurs 1992-2001/Arsenal 2001-06):Suffered years of vitriol and abuse from the Spurs faithful over his switch to Arsenal, where he won two league titles and three FA Cups

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger gave Gallas his best wishes on the move across north London, and intimated his exit was somewhat inevitable following the summer arrival of centre-back Laurent Koscielny from Lorient.

"I can completely understand that," said Wenger. "At the moment he's looking for a club, he's free. He has chosen the best possible option for him.

"We are thankful for what he has done for us and we wish him good luck in his new club."

Wenger continued: "It was more down to timing why William left.

"We had not found an agreement towards the end of the season and then I turned somewhere else.

"I focused completely on signing Koscielny and it took me a long, long time to do that.

"You have to turn somewhere else and now we trust Koscielny, [Johan] Djourou, [Thomas] Vermaelen and [Alex] Song."

Click to play

Wenger 'surprised' by Gallas decision

And asked if Gallas could come back to haunt his old club, Wenger added: "There is just a little bit of a risk that he is a bit more exposed in the derby, but we have seen that before."

With Jonathan Woodgate still out with a long-term groin injury and captain Ledley King plagued by knee problems that limit his playing time, Redknapp has been keen to bolster his defensive resources.

The Spurs boss said Woodgate's recurring injury problems would require further surgery.

"That's [Woodgate's] last chance," said Redknapp. "Well, probably. His last resort, I think, will be an op."

Gallas will also provide competition to centre-backs Michael Dawson, Sebastien Bassong and Younes Kaboul.

The Frenchman will not be signed in time to face Stoke in the Premier League on Saturday and was not registered for European competition so he cannot play against Young Boys in the second leg of Spurs' Champions League qualifier on Wednesday.

Redknapp admitted that the acquisition of Gallas may not mark the end of his summer spending.

But the former Portsmouth boss said he did not believe that Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar or Real Madrid anchorman Lassana Diarra - both rumoured Spurs targets - would follow him to White Hart Lane.

606: DEBATE

Am I the only one disheartened by this?

TrifficSpurs

So far Brazilian Sandro is Redknapp's only other capture of this transfer window.

The 21-year-old defensive midfielder will arrive at the club next week after helping Internacional to the Copa Libertadores title against Mexico's Chivas Gudalajara on Wednesday.

A £7m deal for Sandro was agreed back in March but the player - who has been learning English since then - was allowed to stay with Internacional for as long as the club were in the Copa Libertadores.

"It was the farewell of my dreams," he said after lifting the trophy on Wednesday. "I dreamed of being champion and leaving with this trophy in my luggage."

BBC.co.uk

Todays Live Streaming Matches

2010-08-21T06:57:00.000-07:00

Watch the Games of your Choice.. English Premiere League, German Bundesliga,Spanish Super Copa. Click on the Link Below.

Click for Today's Live Streaming Matches

Raul v Ruud - Old Madrid Strike Partners Meet in Germany

2010-08-21T06:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday afternoon in Hamburg is the R&R show, or Raul and Ruud for those of you who don't care for abbreviations. Together, the former Los Blancos strikers scored goals for fun at the Bernabeu and helped their ex-club win consecutive La Liga titles in 2006-07 and 2007-08.

Neither fancied spending the final years of their playing days warming the bench in Madrid so they've upped sticks to the Bundesliga. Hamburg and Schalke are joint second favourites (8.50) to usurp Bayern Munich as Champions next May.

In their two title-winning seasons spent playing together, Raul and Van Nistelrooy notched up a combined 77 league goals. Spain's great number seven accounted for 36, with Van the Man chalking up 41.

The bookies give the edge to the Dutchman outscoring Raul in the Bundesliga this season. Bear in mind that Van Nistelrooy has missed a large chunk of the past two seasons through injury, so Raul is great value.

goal.com

Ronaldinho Making Remarkable Progress losing weight for the New Season

2010-08-20T17:15:00.000-07:00

Milan star Ronaldinho is closing in on his optimum weight, Rossoneri fitness trainer Daniele Tognaccini has declared to the Corriere dello Sport.

The Brazilian had been accused of being overweight and unfit last term, which in turn led to rumours that he could potentially depart the San Siro over the summer. Several sides from all over the world were said to be interested in his signature, though since the player’s agent announced in early August that there would be no move, there has been little speculation.

Now back with his side, Ronaldinho appears to have turned over a new leaf and is ready to get back to his best.

“’Dinho’ is improving,” Tognaccini explained. “Since arriving in Milan, he has made remarkable progress.

“Now, his weight is close to what he had with Barcelona when he won the Ballon d’Or, 82 to 83lbs. When he arrived at Milanello two years ago, on the first day he weight nearly 90lbs.”

Milan will be boosted by this news, knowing that a fit and willing Ronaldinho is a difficult force to stop.

Lyon Join the Race for Robinho..

2010-08-20T05:29:00.000-07:00

OL are weighing up a bid, but don't expect to see it come to fruition...

By Robin Bairner

Aug 20, 2010 11:13:00 AM

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Robinho - Brazil (CBF News)

OL’s attempt to secure the signature of the 26-year-old would appear to be somewhat audacious as it has been reported that the Citizens are only willing to allow Robinho to leave on a permanent basis as it would mean they would recoup some of the player’s massive transfer fee.

Additionally, and perhaps crucially, les Gones would be seriously straining to afford such a talent. Not only would Lyon struggle to simply match the €19.5 million offer that Besiktas have had accepted, the player’s wages will prove another serious impediment to a permanent deal.

Should Michel Bastos leave for Real Madrid, as has been suggested in some quarters on Friday morning, then funds would be freed up and could perhaps allow a deal to be brokered, but until that time the move would appear to be very unlikely.

Olympique Lyonnais are the latest in the long line of clubs who have been linked with a potential move forManchester City’s Robinho, with L’Equipe suggesting that les Gones will attempt to plunder the player on a temporary basis.The Brazilian’s is a name that has been linked to many sides this summer. Earlier in the week it was reported that Barcelona were interested in the former Santos man, and though Pep Guardiola was quick to quash such rumours, Besiktas have reportedly had a bid accepted for the attacker.

Liverpool Defender Daniel Agger Still suffering from Concussion and Memory Loss after Sundays Encounter with Arsenal

2010-08-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

Liverpool defender Daniel Agger has no recollection of Sunday's game against Arsenal, according to manager Roy Hodgson.

By Telegraph staff and agencies
Published: 5:58PM BST 18 Aug 2010

Groggy: Liverpool's Danish defender Daniel Agger Photo: EPA

Agger suffered concussion after a knock in the second half of the 1-1 Premier League draw at Anfield.

Team-mate Jamie Carragher signalled to the bench he should be replaced as he received treatment but, with three substitutes already used, that was not an option.

With Joe Cole having been sent off, Liverpool were temporarily reduced to nine men as Agger was taken to the sidelines but the 25-year-old eventually returned to the action.

Yet the player is still suffering from headaches as a result of the clash and will not be considered for tomorrow's Europa League play-off first leg against Trabzonspor.

Hodgson said: "Daniel is not doing that well. It is three days after the incident and he is still suffering from the concussion. He has no memory of the game.

"It was quite a serious concussion he received and we can only hope it will settle down in time for Monday's match against Manchester City.

"There was never any question he would be fit for tomorrow.

"He is not able to do very much at the moment because he is still suffering from headaches.

"Even something as simple as reading a newspaper or watching TV can give him a headache so it is just a question of him taking things easy."

Midfielder Javier Mascherano will also miss the clash against the Turks with a calf injury but could be back in contention for Monday's trip to Eastlands.

Mascherano was a surprise selection against Arsenal given his openly stated desire to leave but the club have still not received an offer for the 26-year-old Argentina captain.

"He will always be in my plans until the day comes when he leaves the club," Hodgson said.

"For me that will be a long time in the future. If I could get my wish, he would always play.

Milner and Ireland Complete Man City Aston Villa Exchange deal

2010-08-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

Manchester City have completed the signing of James Milner from Aston Villa in a deal which seesStephen Ireland move in the opposite direction.

Milner was in Manchester on Tuesday to undergo a medical before putting pen to paper on a five-year deal at Eastlands.

The 24-year-old will not be available for Thursday's Europa League game against Timisoara but is in contention to make his debut in City's Premier League clash withLiverpool on Monday night.

The deal, thought to be worth in the region of £24 million, with Ireland valued at £8m, with brings City's total summer spending to over £120m.

City boss Roberto Mancini told the club's official website: "I am very happy to have James with us, everybody knows we have admired him for some time.

"He is an excellent midfielder, who can play in a number of positions. This is important for the team, and I am looking forward to seeing him play for us. We have a very strong squad, and this signing is a very important one for us.

"James he is already a very good player, who has proved he can play at the very top level. But he is also young and a good character, I think he can also improve and be a great player for Manchester City for a long time."

Having come through the ranks, Ireland had spent eight years with City, making 142 starts and scoring 23 goals.

Speaking about the Irishman's departure, Mancini added: "I hope things go well for Stevie at Villa. He is also a very good player, and he has played a big part in City’s history.

"I think he will enjoy the change of being at another club, and I hope he does well for Aston Villa."

Eurosport

Manchester City First Team- 40 Players

2010-08-18T22:07:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

With the implementation of the Premier leagues New Team Rules, clubs are only allowed to register a squad compliment of 25 players. Manchester City are almost 20 players over that number and now face the daunting task of offloading to meet the september 1st deadline.

Goalkeepers

David Gonzales (COL)

Ryan Giggs 21 Years in Pictures 1990/2010

2010-08-18T15:10:00.000-07:00

1990-91: A youthful-looking Giggs marked his debut season for United by scoring his first goal against rivals Manchester City

1991-92: In his second season Giggs cemented his place in the first team as second-placed United narrowly missed out on the title to Leeds United, adding seven goals along the way

1992-93: Giggs celebrates with the Premier League trophy and team-mates after their victory over Blackburn Rovers. Rovers had threatened to spoil United's championship party by taking an early lead but United equalised through a superb free kick by Giggs and went on to win 3-1

1993-94: Giggs bursts past QPR's Darren Peacock to score one of those mazy, slalom-style goals that would help define his early career

1994-95: This was a tough season for Giggs. Injury and a loss of form meant he managed only one league goal for the season which came against Wimbledon in August

1995-96: Giggs scores both home and away against Everton, with his goal at Old Trafford nominated for Goal of the Season. He misses out to Georgi Kinkladze

1996-97: After scoring 11 goals in the previous season, Giggs's total for this season dropped to a meagre three

1997-98: Giggs's shot beats the best efforts of diving keeper David Watson and the defender Ales Krizan as he scores United's fifth goal in a 7-0 thrashing of Barnsley

1998-99: Giggs celebrates his goal during the Premiership match against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford in a season in which United won an historic treble

1999-00: Giggs marked the year that everyone will remember for United's absence from the FA Cup with six league goals

2000-01: Giggs ghosts past the Coventry defence to score during United's 4-2 victory en route

to the title

2001-02: Giggs scores United's second goal during Manchester United's 3-0 victory over Olympiakos at Old Trafford in the Champions League group stage

2002-03: Giggs celebrates scoring United's equalizing goal, with team-mates Mikael Silvestre, Roy Keane and David Beckham to make it 2-2 against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge

2003-04: Roy Keane, Paul Scholes and Eric Djemba Djemba celebrate with Giggs after he has scored United's second goal against Bolton at Old Trafford, but United finished only third with Arsenal winning the league as unbeaten champions

2004-05: Giggs celebrates with team-mate Wayne Rooney after scoring against Charlton Athletic at Old Trafford

2005-06: Giggs uses the outside of his boot to score the only goal for United in a 1-1 draw with Everton at Old Trafford

2006-07:Giggs scores a stylish equaliser against Fulham at Craven Cottage as United go on to win 2-1

2007-08: An 80th-minute goal from Giggs against Wigan at The JJB Stadium on the final day of the season ensures the title goes to Manchester and not west London

2008-09: Giggs was captain against West Ham at Upton Park. He scored the only goal in a tight game with his less favoured right foot as United went on to equal Liverpool's record of 18 league titles

2009-10: Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini fails to keep out a superb free kick from Giggs as United beat Spurs 3-1

2010-11: Giggs volleys in United's third goal against Newcastle, meaning he has now scored in 21 consecutive seasons

Arsenal Injury Woes Begin as Nasri adds to the Disabled list.

2010-08-18T07:37:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri has been ruled out for a month after having minor knee surgery.

The 23-year-old Frenchman, who missed the first part of last season with a broken leg, suffered a meniscal injury in Sunday's 1-1 draw at Liverpool.

It comes on the back of the Gunners being without midfielder Cesc Fabregas for that match because of illness.

Alex Song has a calf injury, Denilson has an abdominal problem and Aaron Ramsey is recovering from a broken leg.

Nasri, who missed out on a place in France's World Cup squad in the summer but played in the recent friendly against Norway, joined Arsenal from Marseille in July 2008.

He scored after only four minutes of his debut for the Gunners and became a key player in his first season at the club, during which he made 44 appearances.

But his 2009-2010 campaign was almost over before it began after he broke his right fibula at a pre-season training camp.

His latest injury could see him ruled out the start of Arsenal's Champions League campaign and also France's Euro 2012 qualifiers against Belarus and Bosnia and Hercegovina.

BBC.co.uk

Anelka Calls French Football a Joke after Being Banned

2010-08-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Nicolas Anelka says he is "laughing" after being banned for 18 games by the French Football Federation (FFF) over his conduct at this summer's World Cup.

The 31-year-old Chelsea striker was sent home from South Africa after a row with coach Raymond Domenech.

"This whole thing is a nonsense, to turn the page because [new coach] Laurent Blanc needs to be able to work in peace," Anelka told France Soir.

"These people are clowns. I'm dying with laughter," he added.

Anelka said the suspension "has no relevance whatsoever" because as far as he is concerned, his international career finished when he was thrown out of training on 19 June

"The whole commission thing is a charade not to lose face," he added.

Anelka's team-mates refused to train after the row, which led to the team finishing bottom of their group with just one goal and one point in three matches.

The president of the French Federation resigned over what he called the "fiasco" and a government inquiry was launched into the whole affair.

New coach Blanc suspended all 23 members of the World Cup squad for his first game in charge, against Norway earlier this month, and three of those players have been handed further bans for their part in events in South Africa.

Manchester United's Patrice Evra was captain of the team and has been banned for five matches for his involvement in the revolt.

Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery has been suspended for three and Jeremy Toulalan of Lyon for one.

Barcelona's Eric Abidal was also summoned to Tuesday's FFF disciplinary hearing but escaped punishment.

The quintet were highlighted as the key players in the embarrassing controversy which surrounded the French team at the World Cup following Anelka's outburst at Domenech during the loss to Mexicosaw him banished.

Evra and Ribery were summoned for not performing their duties properly as captain and vice-captain, while Toulalan was seen as the perpetrator behind a statement read out by Domenech explaining why the players had refused to train.

BBC.CO.UK

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Todays Live Streaming Matches

Raul v Ruud - Old Madrid Strike Partners Meet in Germany

Ronaldinho Making Remarkable Progress losing weight for the New Season

Lyon Join the Race for Robinho..

Liverpool Defender Daniel Agger Still suffering from Concussion and Memory Loss after Sundays Encounter with Arsenal

Liverpool defender Daniel Agger has no recollection of Sunday's game against Arsenal, according to manager Roy Hodgson.

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Milner and Ireland Complete Man City Aston Villa Exchange deal

Manchester City First Team- 40 Players

With the implementation of the Premier leagues New Team Rules, clubs are only allowed to register a squad compliment of 25 players. Manchester City are almost 20 players over that number and now face the daunting task of offloading to meet the september 1st deadline.

Goalkeepers

Defenders

Midfielders

Strikers Emmanuel Adebayor (TGO) Craig Bellamy (WAL) Mario Balotelli (It) Felipe Caicedo (ECU) Jô (BRA) Alex Tchuimeni-Nimely (ENG) Robinho (BRA) Roque Santa Cruz (PRY) Carlos Tevez (ARG)

Strikers

Ryan Giggs 21 Years in Pictures 1990/2010

Arsenal Injury Woes Begin as Nasri adds to the Disabled list.

Anelka Calls French Football a Joke after Being Banned

Strikers

Emmanuel Adebayor (TGO)

Craig Bellamy (WAL)

Mario Balotelli (It)

Felipe Caicedo (ECU)

Jô (BRA)

Alex Tchuimeni-Nimely (ENG)

Robinho (BRA)

Roque Santa Cruz (PRY)

Carlos Tevez (ARG)