Kosova sport news

Chelsea defender Gary Cahill keen to play alongside John Terry

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 27 Jul 2013 10:17:00 +0000

Gary Cahill: Keen to link up with John Terry for Chelsea this season

Terry struggled with injuries last season but was a key part of manager Jose Mourinho's success in his first spell at Stamford Bridge.Gary Cahill is keen to form a partnership with John Terry in the heart of the Chelsea defence as they look to mount a title challenge in the upcoming Premier League season.

Cahill knows they will have to battle David Luiz for a place in the team but he hopes to spend some time alongside Terry, who has impressed on the pre-season tour of Asia.

"Last year he had a couple of niggles and hopefully they're behind him, not just for him but the team," said Cahill.

"It seems like I've only played with him in bits and bobs, with him being in and out, and we've not really had a run of games.

"It would be great if he could stay fit so we can have consistency."

Cahill also had words of praise for striker Romelu Lukaku, who spent last season on loan at West Brom.

The Belgium international scored twice in Chelsea's 8-1 thrashing of the Indonesia All-Stars and has four goals in total from the trip to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta and Cahill has been impressed by what he has seen.

"He had a great loan spell at West Brom last season, has been flying in training and scored two great goals," added Cahill.

"I play against him in training a lot and he's a handful just with his pace and power. His finishing is great too."

As for the chance to work under Mourinho, Cahill admits he is relishing the opportunity.

"It's been exciting to work for Mourinho and we're slowly getting to know him," he said.

"There's a handful of players who knew what to expect from him, but for players like me it's just exciting."

Yaya Toure glad that Manchester City have brought in "unbelievable players"

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 27 Jul 2013 10:16:00 +0000

Yaya Toure: Excited by new Manchester City arrivals

City have brought in Alvaro Negredo, Jesus Navas, Fernandinho and Stevan Jovetic so far this summer in a £90million investment under new boss Manuel Pellegrini.Yaya Toure is happy to welcome new signings to Manchester City because he feels the club needed a boost.

Toure believes the signings were necessary to improve the team after City fell short in all competitions last season.

"I'm glad these players have come because we needed it," said Toure, quoted in the Daily Mail.

"They're unbelievable players - Negredo, Navas, Fernandinho and Jovetic, who is a great young talent with a fantastic future.

"We think we have the right players and if we perform like we should then we'll have a very good chance of winning trophies.

"When you lose you must not have done something right. Last season we were a step away from winning the FA Cup but Wigan were better than us.

"In the Premier League and Champions League we were disappointing. We have to be honest and say Manchester United were much better than us.

"This year we want to do the job. The club want to improve in every aspect because we know we have a great challenge against Chelsea, Arsenal, United, Tottenham and Liverpool.

"It's important for me and the club. I know how much everyone desires it. The fans only want to see one Manchester club profit."

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger prepared to wait for Luis Suarez

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 27 Jul 2013 10:15:00 +0000

Luis Suarez: Liverpool striker is wanted by Premier League rivals Arsenal

The Gunners have already put in a £40,000,001 bid for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez but Wenger is relaxed about the lack of progress on the deal and is not expecting transfer activity ahead of the Emirates Cup next weekend.Arsene Wenger has revealed he is prepared to wait for his transfer targets as he claims Arsenal can win the Premier League title with or without new signings.

"We are ready to do quick deals but all the transfers do not depend only on us," said Wenger, quoted in the Daily Mirror. "But we are prepared to wait. It looks unlikely before the Emirates Cup.

"We still have a strong squad but we are there on the market to try to strengthen our team. With or without additions we can be title challengers next season."

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has publicly questioned the wisdom of Suarez leaving Anfield to join Arsenal as he insists it would be a sideways step - but Wenger would not be drawn on the matter.

"He must explain that," added the Arsenal boss. "I don't know. We are not close to signing Suarez or anybody else so there's no reason why I should talk about it.

"There is nothing to say. I have been away now for two or the weeks and it's hard to see how things are advanced because everyone is on tour at the moment and it's very difficult to get in touch with people.

"What has changed recently is that in Europe some countries like France suddenly have bought some very talented players who two or three years ago would all have come to England. It makes the chase for talent very difficult.

"What we want is not a name but a good player. The name is less important. What is more important is the quality of the player. At the moment I must tell you we are not close to signing anybody.

"We try to do the job and we will try to do it well. But that is in front of us. We have worked a lot but nothing has been concluded with anybody.

"Of course we want to do as many top players as we can. But we also have to focus on the players we have and develop them."

Paul Scholes hopes Manchester United can sign Cesc Fabregas and urges Wayne Rooney to stay

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 27 Jul 2013 10:14:00 +0000

Paul Scholes believes the arrival of Cesc Fabregas at Manchester United would ensure the club remains a dominant force in the Premier League next season.

New Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino insists he is determined to keep Fabregas, despite constant speculation about the ex-Arsenal midfielder returning to England with United.

David Moyes does not appear ready to end his pursuit of the Spaniard after admitting that talks are 'ongoing' and he would be a fitting replacement for former playmaker Scholes, who would welcome Fabregas' arrival.

Scholes played against Fabregas on a number of occasions before announcing his retirement last season and he feels the 26-year-old would help the club challenge for more silverware in the new campaign.

"Well it would be nice to sign a player of that quality," he told Sky Sports News.

"He's proven in the Premier League, obviously he's with Barcelona, it's a big club, it will be difficult to get him away from there. But if you do, you have to fancy your chances strongly that we can go on and be successful with a player like that in your team."

Wayne Rooney sat out Scholes' final game for United in May after making a transfer request and his future at the club is uncertain, with Chelsea keen to sign the unsettled striker.

Moyes is reluctant to sell Rooney and Scholes has advised the England international to remain at Old Trafford.

"Well my advice would be to stay obviously," he said. "I don't think there's anywhere better than Manchester United to play your football, but it's not the same for every person.

"If someone is not happy there then they want to go. If that's Wayne's feeling then that's up to him, but he's a top, top player and I think every United player and fan hopes he stays."

Moyes is yet to bring in any big names after succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson and neighbours Manchester City have already added a host of new faces to their ranks.

But Scholes insists there is no rush for Moyes to bring in recruits because he has inherited a strong squad.

He said: "I don't think there's that much pressure really because he's come in and there's a quality squad there already. There's 18, 19, 20 quality players he's got.

"Obviously even if Alex Ferguson was still there, I'm sure he'd want to sign two or three players. That's the norm every season.

"You win the league by 10 points, whatever it is, you still want to improve the year after. I'm sure David (Moyes) is trying his best to get players and I'm sure he'll want players, and hopefully he can get the ones he wants."

Barcelona say all Cesc Fabregas bids will be rejected

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 26 Jul 2013 18:10:00 +0000

Gerardo Martino: We are counting on Fabregas

Barcelona have announced that Martino has signed a two-year contract to replace Tito Vilanova and the new man has wasted little time in making it clear that he will be retaining Fabregas.New Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino says there is no chance of midfielder Cesc Fabregas moving to Manchester United.

Although Manchester United have already had two bids for the Spanish international rejected, manager David Moyes said on Thursday that their attempts to sign the 26-year-old were "ongoing".

However, Martino said: "I'm not going to get into the economic interests but, if the club rejected it twice, I add a third one right now.

"He will be staying here."

Vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu added: "It's logical that we've had offers for Fabregas because he is a quality player but he is not for sale.

"We are proud to have him here. It doesn't matter what the offer from United is, we are counting on him.

"It is normal that many clubs are interested in our player Cesc. That is a source of pride for us, but we'll reject all bids."

Every side can improve

Speaking about his aims for the club, Martino said: "Every side, even Barcelona which has already achieved certain moments of excellence, can always improve, and Barca still has things to win.

"We are going to try to recover certain things that we've seen when Barca have been at their best, and add a few ideas of our own."

He said he would not be changing the team's 4-3-3 formation and, regarding star player Lionel Messi, he added: "He will continue to play in exactly the same position, he has to feel comfortable. After that, he'll do the rest."

Alex Song is also convinced that Fabregas will still be a Barcelona player at the start of the new season.

Song, the former Arsenal midfielder who spent six years at the Emirates before moving to Spain in 2012, says his team-mate has no intention of quitting Camp Nou.

After featuring in Barca's friendly defeat at Bayern Munich on Wednesday, Song told Sky Sports News he is "100%" sure Fabregas is going nowhere.

He said: "I did not speak with him but I know Cesc is 100 per cent here.

"He loves Barcelona, he loves the club. He will stay here next season and give 100 per cent because I know him very well and he'll want to fight. He's focused on the club.

"He wants just to give his best for Barcelona. He's from Barcelona, he loves Barcelona and he'll want to start the season to show what he can do.

"People are talking and talking, but we know he is focused here and ready to start the season.

"He's enjoying a holiday with his family and I'm sure he wants just to come back here.

"It's my own opinion but I know he will stay here, 100 per cent."

Gareth Bale may be set to extend his Tottenham contract

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 26 Jul 2013 17:57:00 +0000

Gareth Bale: Enjoyed a superb 2012/13 season

Welsh winger Bale has been linked with a host of top European clubs after a sensational 2012/13 campaign during which he won the PFA Players' Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards.Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has confirmed that the club are in talks with Gareth Bale over a new contract.

Reports have again surfaced in Spain that Real Madrid have submitted an official bid for the 24-year-old but Villas-Boas is hoping to keep hold of his prized asset and believes a new contract can be agreed before the start of the season.

"There were contacts last year between the club and his agent," said Villas-Boas. "And there are still ongoing contacts between club and agent.

"The player renewed his contract last year by the beginning of the season, if you remember, and it's something that is being dealt with by the chairman and the agent.

Confident

"Talks are ongoing, but that doesn't mean there is an agreement."

When asked if he was confident that an agreement would be reached, the Spurs boss added: "At the moment we are confident. The player is under contract, a good contract at Tottenham, which was done last year.

"It's something we are speaking about but we don't have any further developments."

Asked if there had been any formal bids for Bale, a smiling Villas-Boas replied: "I'm not going to make any comments on that one!

"The player is a special player and had a wonderful season last year, we recognise the level he was playing at.

"At the moment we are extremely happy with his performances and happy with the conditions that he has.

"We understand that we are speaking with his agent for a possible improvement but, at the moment, we don't need to make any further statement regarding transfer speculation or his contract."

Bale missed Wednesday's Barclays Asia Trophy match against Sunderland due to injury and will probably sit out Saturday's game against South China as well.

"He is very near to recovery and I think we will only see him back in training in London," said Villas-Boas.

"He has made a slight strain, he has pulled his muscle on his right side. Seven to 10 days is a normal period for this kind of injury and he is within that timeframe. He's very near to coming back."

Gylfi Sigurdsson is one of several Spurs players to express their hope that Bale will be staying at White Hart Lane.

"He's a great player and if he stays it will be fantastic. I am sure he will stay because he's still here," he told reporters.

"He is a draw for other players to come here. Good players want to play with other big players. It's a big club and hopefully he'll stay and we'll bring in a few other good players."

Sigurdsson is also of the opinion that Bale's presence can help Spurs to push on and claim a Champions League spot this time around.

"The players here talk about getting into the Champions League two seasons ago and how fantastic it was," he said.

"Missing out when Chelsea won the Champions League and being fifth last season was very disappointing.

"It's hard to deal with for a couple of weeks after the season ends but then you start thinking about the next season. We're determined to make it our year."

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers says Arsenal must up bid for Luis Suarez

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 25 Jul 2013 18:06:00 +0000

Luis Suarez: Acceptable offer has yet to be received for Liverpool striker

"If Arsenal want the player, then they have to produce the value for the player," Rodgers told reporters in Australia.The Gunners put in a bid of £40,000,001 for the striker earlier this week but Rodgers argues that it will take a lot more than that before the Uruguay international is allowed to leave Anfield.

"There was an offer a few weeks ago of £35million and two weeks later it is now £40m and a pound - I don't think it is anywhere near the value of what he is worth.

"But it is twofold, really. A player may want to go, but then somebody has to pay the value or worth of that player."

Suarez featured briefly as a substitute for Liverpool in their 2-0 victory over Melbourne Victory on Wednesday and the Reds boss expects the striker to play for as long as he is paid by the club.

Rodgers added: "There is no change for me or Luis. He is a paid player at Liverpool so he just needs to get on with getting fit. That is how it is.

"Until somebody tells me something different, that is what all my concentration will be on. There will be no games played at Liverpool.

"Luis is part of the group and he knows the standard you have to meet at this club - on and off the field.

"After the bid came in Luis was OK, he said he was OK to go on the pitch and his focus was fine.

"It may be a distraction but players are played enough money now to produce for their clubs and he just has to keep his professionalism, which he has done."

Manchester United's bid for Cesc Fabregas is 'ongoing'

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 25 Jul 2013 17:37:00 +0000

Cesc Fabregas: Barcelona midfielder remains a transfer target for Manchester United

United have had two bids for the Spain international turned down already but Moyes insists they have not given up hope of landing the former Arsenal man.Manchester United manager David Moyes says the club are continuing with their attempts to sign midfielder Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona.

Asked about the potential deal at a Thursday press conference as United continue their tour of Japan, Moyes said: "It is ongoing."

And the new United boss also said that forward Robin van Persie is likely to feature in Friday's friendly against Cerezo Osaka.

Van Persie felt tightness in his thigh during Tuesday's loss in Yokohama and had to be taken off.

Van Persie expected to play

But Moyes said: "It was just a precaution. I expect he will play tomorrow."

However, Michael Carrick is unlikely to be risked on Friday, although Moyes says the midfielder's tight groin is getting better.

Regarding injured players who are rehabilitating back in Manchester, the manager said the news was good.

"There was a practice match at the training ground the other day in which Nemanja Vidic, Antonio Valencia and Nani all got some playing time," he said.

"Wayne Rooney is running and is probably at the level we would have thought he would be at. He has picked up his work again this week."

Meanwhile, Alex Song is convinced Fabregas will still be a Barcelona player at the start of the new season.

Song, the former Arsenal midfielder who spent six years at the Emirates before moving to Spain in 2012, says his team-mate has no intention of quitting Camp Nou.

After featuring in Barca's friendly defeat at Bayern Munich, Song told Sky Sports News he is "100%" sure Fabregas is going nowhere.

He said: "I did not speak with him but I know Cesc is 100 per cent here.

"He loves Barcelona, he loves the club. He will stay here next season and give 100 per cent because I know him very well and he'll want to fight. He's focused on the club.

"He wants just to give his best for Barcelona. He's from Barcelona, he loves Barcelona and he'll want to start the season to show what he can do.

"People are talking and talking, but we know he is focused here and ready to start the season.

"He's enjoying a holiday with his family and I'm sure he wants just to come back here.

"It's my own opinion but I know he will stay here, 100 per cent."

Villas-Boas confirms Tottenham interest in 'great' Soldado

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Jul 2013 15:07:00 +0000

Andre Villas-Boas has revealed that Tottenham is interested in Valencia striker Roberto Soldado, but stressed that no deal has been agreed.

The north Londoners have sent technical director Franco Baldini to Spain to negotiate a deal for the 28-year-old, who scored 30 goals in all competitions last term.

Valencia president Amadeo Salvo has insisted Soldado will only leave the Mestalla if a club matches his 30 million euro buyout clause, with Villas-Boas stressing that no deal has yet been agreed with the Liga outfit.

"At the moment, he's just one of the players we are interested in," Villas-Boas told reporters. "It's not a lie to anybody that we've been looking for a striker to strengthen our squad and to have more strength in depth.

"Roberto is one of the players we have been following and his career speaks for itself. He's a great striker. But there isn't a deal being struck at the moment, it's just interest and conversations."

With just Jermain Defoe and Emmanuel Adebayor the only first-team strikers at Villas-Boas' disposal, the Portuguese is keen to bolster his attacking options and has turned his attentions to Soldado after the club refused to meet Aston Villa's 25m pound asking price for Christian Benteke.

Gerardo Martino has described Barcelona as having players "every coach wants" following his hiring as head coach on Tuesday.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Jul 2013 15:04:00 +0000

Gerardo Martino has described Barcelona as having players "every coach wants" following his hiring as head coach on Tuesday.

Martino was confirmed as the new Camp Nou boss just days after Tito Vilanova's shocking resignation over health problems as he continues his battle against cancer.

Gerardo Martino was named Barcelona's new coach on Tuesday.

Martino, who steps down as Newell's Old Boys boss to take the two-year deal in Catalunya, is thrilled to get the opportunity to coach Lionel Messi and is crossing his fingers that he will be a huge success.

"For my career as a coach, with the players that Barcelona have, with Leo there, it's exactly what every coach wants," Martino told reporters at a press conference in Argentina. "I hope I can be as good as they are expecting and help them keep winning."

Martino reached a two-year agreement with Barcelona and was presented Tuesday afternoon at a press conference in in Rosario, Argentina. Despite having no coaching experience with a European club, Martino received the backing of Messi in recent days.

"I'm really happy that Barcelona considered me and my way of working. I have hopes that everything will go perfect, and, despite the [high] expectations, that everything will go great," the 50-year-old said.

"My first goal is to get adapted to the club with my people the best way. Then we have to fight for every competition we play."

Martino is the fourth Argentine to coach Barcelona, after Helenio Herrera (1958-60, 1980 and 1980-81), Roque Olsen (1965-67), and Cesar Luis Menotti (1983-84).

Manchester City confirms Negredo signing

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 21 Jul 2013 15:59:00 +0000

Manchester City has confirmed the signing of Spain and Sevilla striker Alvaro Negredo in a deal thought to be worth up to about 24 million pounds.

The 27-year-old Negredo scored 63 goals in 95 appearances for Sevilla but will now wear the No. 9 shirt for the Citizens as new boss Manuel Pellegrini's fourth signing at the Etihad Stadium. Negredo follows in the footsteps of Fernandinho, Stevan Jovetic and former teammate Jesus Navas, who joined City from Sevilla earlier this summer.

"City are delighted to announce the signing of Alvaro Negredo, who becomes the club’s third new recruit of the summer," read a statement. "He will join up with the squad on the pre-season tour, and wear the No. 9 shirt."

Van Persie would welcome Fabregas signing

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 21 Jul 2013 15:59:00 +0000

Robin van Persie has indicated he would like to see former Arsenal teammate Cesc Fabregas join Manchester United.

The Premier League champion lodged a 30 million euro bid for the Barcelona midfielder on Monday, with manager David Moyes hopeful of receiving "good news" regarding the offer in the near future.

When questioned whether he would like to be reunited with Fabregas, Van Persie replied: "Of course, he's a great player."

However, he was quick to underline that he has not been in contact with his former teammate.

Barcelona, meanwhile, maintains Fabregas wants to stay at Camp Nou, but Moyes is keen to strengthen United's central-midfield position after failing to lure Bayern Munich new-boy Thiago Alcantara to Old Trafford ealier in July.

Moyes told The Times: "When I got the job, I was made aware of what could possibly be done to improve things, and signing a midfield player was one that we thought we could possibly add to the squad.

"At the moment that’s probably our priority - to try and add a player in that position."

Ancelotti calm over Ronaldo contract talks

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 21 Jul 2013 15:57:00 +0000

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that the club will not have a problem convincing Cristiano Ronaldo to sign a new contract.

The Portuguese attacker's current deal runs out in June 2015 and, amid reports that the likes of Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco are ready bid for the 28-year-old, the new Santiago Bernabeu coach has praised the player's professionalism and cast doubt on any potential transfer.

Real Madrid is hoping to sign Cristiano Ronaldo to a new contract. (AP Images)

"He's a phenomenal player, a great professional," Ancelotti told reporters. "It's important for the club that a player of his quality shows the utmost professionalism.

"It's also important for the young players to look up to people with this attitude. His contract renewal is not my job, but I do not think it'll be a problem."

Tito Vilanova resigned as Barcelona boss on Friday due to health problems and Ancelotti has wished his fellow coach a quick and complete recovery.

"I want to send a message of support and encouragement to my fellow trainer Tito Vilanova," the 54-year-old added. "I'm sad about this. He is a fighter who will fight.

"I want to tell him that the whole club and squad of Real Madrid - and me personally - are with him. We wish him the best."

Andrea Antonelli , dies on Word Superbikes event in Moscow

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 21 Jul 2013 14:54:00 +0000

A tragedy has befallen the World Superbikes event in Moscow with Italian rider Andrea Antonelli succumbing to injuries sustained in the World Supersport race that lasted just one lap before the red flag flew.

Extreme wet weather took to the Moscow Raceway during the World Superbike opening race causing chaos among the teams. The Supersport race and subsequent WSBK event were cancelled so bad was the weather.

The violent incident involving Antonelli took place approaching the final corner with fellow Italian Lorenzo Zanetti. Antonelli had fallen from his bike and with the spray, Zanetti had nowhere to go and collected the unfortunate Italian.

The 25-year-old had competed in 22 World Supersport races up until this weekend and graduated from the 600 and 1000 Stock category.

Riding for Kawasaki, Antonelli was running seventh in the Championship with a best result this season of fourth at Aragon.

Marco Melandri took the World Superbike race earlier in the day.

Antonelli’s death joins a number of other high profile motorsport incidents that have resulted in death this year.

Watch the video : Andrea Antonelli fatal crash Superbike Moscow 2013

Andre Santos: Flamengo sign Brazilian from Arsenal

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 17:29:00 +0000

Andre Santos: Flamengo sign Brazilian from Arsenal

Arsenal have sold left-back Andre Santos to Brazilian side Flamengo.

The 30-year-old joined the Gunners from Turkish side Fenerbahce in a £6.2m move in August 2011 but struggled to establish himself in the side.

Andre Santos at Arsenal

Appearances: 33

Goals (all competitions): 3

He went back to his native Brazil to join Gremio on loan in January 2013 followingArsenal's signing of left-back Nacho Monreal from Malaga.

Santos, who was on loan at Flamengo during the 2005-06 season, has now joined the club on a permanent basis.

A statement on Arsenal's website said: "Everybody at Arsenal would like to thank Andre for his contribution to the club and we wish him well for his future career."

Santos was hampered by a knee injury in December 2011 during his first season with the Gunners.

He made 33 appearances for the club and scored three goals, before joining Flamengo for an undisclosed fee.

Marquinhos: Paris St-Germain sign Roma defender

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 15:40:00 +0000

Marquinhos: Paris St-Germain sign Roma defender

French champions Paris St-Germain have signed 19-year-old Brazilian defender Marquinhos from Roma for £27m.

Marquinhos, who has signed a five-year deal, joined Roma from Corinthians a year ago for £3.9m, although the Brazilians will now earn another £2.3m.

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said: "It underlines the club's desire to look towards the future to construct one of Europe's biggest clubs."

Earlier this month, PSG paid Napoli £55m for Uruguay striker Edinson Cavani.

Marquinhos, whose full name is Marcos Aoas Correa, made a huge impact in his debut season in Serie A and was linked with moves to Manchester United and Barcelona.

"I am delighted to be joining Paris St-Germain, a club where so many Brazilians have played and helped write the club's history," he said.

Kevin Phillips: Crystal Palace contract for veteran striker

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 15:39:00 +0000

Kevin Phillips: Crystal Palace contract for veteran striker

Striker Kevin Phillips has signed a one-year contract with Crystal Palace - just five days before he turns 40.

The ex-England forward spent the second half of last season on loan at Palace from Blackpool, scoring their winner in the Championship play-off final.

Signed on a free transfer, he will be the third outfield player to appear in the Premier League at 40, following Teddy Sheringham and Gordon Strachan.

Kevin Phillips's clubs

Baldock Town (1991-94)
Watford (1994-97)
Sunderland (1997-2003)
Southampton (2003-05)
Aston Villa (2005-06)
West Bromwich Albion (2006-08)
Birmingham City (2008-11)
Blackpool (2011-13)
Crystal Palace (2013)

"I am absolutely delighted," Phillips told the club's website .

"I was always hoping to have another chance to play in the top flight."

Phillips has scored 92 Premier League goals in a career spanning spells with Sunderland, Southampton, Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City.

He added: "It's unbelievable for me but I am really looking forward to it and hoping I can play a great part in the season ahead.

"Everyone I spoke to said to keep going as long as the fitness and hunger is there and that is certainly the case with me."

The Eagles are awaiting final written confirmation of the paperwork from the Football Association and Premier League.

Oscar Garcia signs contract with Brighton & Hove Albion

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 15:38:00 +0000

Oscar Garcia signs contract with Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton & Hove Albion's new head coach Oscar Garcia has signed a three-year deal with the club.

The 40-year-old quit Maccabi Tel Aviv to take up the role at the Championship side in June after the dismissal of former boss Gus Poyet.

Garcia has now penned his contract and he told Brighton's website:"I am delighted to have signed a long-term contract with the club.

"I am now very much looking forward to the challenge ahead."

Oscar Garcia

Playing career: Barcelona B, Barcelona, Albacete (loan), Valencia, Espanyol, Lleida.

Coaching career: Catalonia (assistant), Barcelona (youth), Maccabi Tel Aviv (manager).

Brighton said the post of head coach was a newly-created role when Garcia arrived at the south-coast outfit.

Garcia played for Barcelona for six years and has also coached their youth team before guiding Maccabi to the league title last season.

"Brighton are one of the most exciting clubs in Europe and the potential here is very good," added Garcia.

"The squad is strong and the footballing set-up is excellent. The aim is to continue the good progress that has been made in recent seasons.

"Pre-season preparations are going well and, like the supporters, I am looking forward to an exciting season."

The moves of coach Ruben Martinez and fitness coach Juan Torrijo Navaro in leaving Maccabi and joining Garcia at Brighton have also been confirmed.

Former Seagulls left-back Nathan Jones has also returned to the team as assistant head coach.

"The club has made significant progress in the past three seasons, and our aim is to continue this progress under Oscar's guidance," said Brighton chairman Tony Bloom.

"His footballing principles and philosophies will ensure we continue to play with the style and in the way our fans have become accustomed."

John Terry not safe at Chelsea, says Jose Mourinho

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 15:27:00 +0000

John Terry not safe at Chelsea, says Jose Mourinho

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho insists captain John Terry is "not safe" and must prove himself worthy of a first-team place and a new contract.

Terry, 32, was skipper in Mourinho's previous spell from 2004 to 2007 and has a year left on his current deal.

Mourinho said: "He's not safe, and he knows he's not safe. The only thing he knows is safe is our friendship, but professionally, nobody's safe.

Terry's trophies under Mourinho

Premier League (2): 2004-05, 2005-06
FA Cup (1): 2006-07
Football League Cup (2): 2004-05, 2006-07
FA Community Shield (1): 2005

"I know he's a very good player, but he must prove himself like everyone else."

Terry, whose first spell as skipper under Mourinho heralded six trophies, was no longer a guaranteed first choice under Mourinho's predecessor Rafael Benitez last season, however Mourinho believes the centre-back still has a lot to offer.

"I feel the motivation is there, the pleasure of training and playing is there," Mourinho added.

"His class is there. His position is there. From a physical point of view, he needs to work hard and not have injuries because injuries break the evolution of the player. For me, that's the key point for John."

The Portuguese is also confident he can get the best out of £50m striker Fernando Torres, who has struggled at times since his January 2011 arrival at Stamford Bridge.

"I think I know Fernando quite well in terms of a player," said Mourinho, who believes Torres is at his best when he can run in behind defences.

"I think I know the best way for a team to play to try to get the best out of him, so I will try to help him, the same way I try to help other people."

Tito Vilanova: Barcelona manager steps down through ill health

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 15:25:00 +0000

Tito Vilanova: Barcelona manager steps down through ill health

Tito Vilanova has stepped down as Barcelona manager to continue his treatment for cancer.

The 44-year-old had a tumour removed from his throat in November 2011 before suffering a relapse last year.

Tito Vilanova factfile

1968: Born 17 September, Bellcaire d'Emporda, Spain
1988: Comes through the Barcelona youth set-up, but never makes the first team
1990: Joins lower-league Figueres
1992: Arrives at Primera Liga side Celta Vigo
1995: Leaves after struggling to hold down a first-team place
2002: Retires after short spells with a number of lower-league clubs, and starts coaching at Barca's youth academy
2007: After a spell as technical director at Terrassa, becomes assistant manager of Barcelona's B team, working under Pep Guardiola
2008: Becomes Barcelona assistant when Guardiola is made manager
2012: Appointed Guardiola's successor
2013: Steps down as Barca coach

Vilanova had surgery in December 2012and spent 10 weeks in New York to have chemotherapy and radiotherapy beforereturning in March to see his side take the Spanish title.

The club said that a new manager is expected to be announced next week.

Barcelona president Sandro Rosell and director of football Andoni Zubizarreta announced the news at a brief media conference attended by the first-team squad.

Rossell said: "Tito Vilanova will continue treatment of his illness, he will not be able to continue as Barcelona's head manager.

"This is a very difficult blow to the club, but we have overcome many difficult setbacks."

Barca forward Lionel Messi has offered his support to Vilanova, writing on his Facebook page: "Strength Tito! We are all with you in this fight!"

The Argentinian's club-mate Andres Iniesta added in the Spanish newspaper AS:"Tito will once again win this terrible battle facing him. On behalf of the players and everyone, I send him all my love and support. At the end of the day, this is about a person, not a coach."

Barca's friendly with Polish club Lechia Gdansk on Saturday night has been cancelled.

Vilanova replaced Pep Guardiola as manager in June 2012, having previously worked as his assistant.

Reports in Spain suggest Joan Francesc Ferrer, known as Rubi, could replace Vilanova in a caretaker capacity.

He joined Barca's coaching staff last month as an assistant to Vilanova and Jordi Roura, who took charge of the first team when Vilanova was absent last season.

Rubi was head coach of Girona last term and led the club to the Segunda Division play-offs, where they lost to Almeria.

Alvaro Negredo: Man City complete deal for Sevilla striker

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 19 Jul 2013 16:09:00 +0000

Alvaro Negredo: Man City complete deal for Sevilla striker

Manchester City have completed the signing of Spain international Alvaro Negredo for £20m from Sevilla.

The striker, 27, arrived in Manchester on Thursday to undergo a medical before finalising the deal.

He joins former Sevilla team-mate Jesus Navas in new manager Manuel Pellegrini's reshaped squad, and will wear the number nine shirt.

Alvaro Negredo

Born: Madrid, 20 August 1985
Nickname: La fiera de Vallecas (The beast of Vallecas)
Clubs: Rayo Vallecano, Real Madrid, Almeria, Sevilla
International: Spain - 14 caps, six goals

Fiorentina's £28m-rated attacker Stevan Jovetic, 23, should be City's next summer purchase.

Montenegro international Jovetic has previously attracted interest from Arsenal, Manchester United and Everton but will have a medical at City on Friday.

Negredo is the first incoming deal completed since Pellegrini officially took the reins as City manager, with the signings of Navas and Fernandinho taking place in the days before the Chilean's appointment.

The Spaniard has won 14 international caps, scoring six goals, and was part of Spain's victorious Euro 2012 squad.

At a farewell press conference in Seville on Wednesday the former Real Madrid player said he was looking forward to the next stage of his career.

Continue reading the main story

“It is a great deal for all three parties”

Jose Maria del NidoSevilla president

"For four years I have been very happy, but I think my time was over here," the forward, who scored 26 La Liga goals last season, said.

Ex-Sevilla winger Navas, 27, sealed a £14.9m transfer on a four-year deal earlier this summer and Negredo said: "I am happy to be spending another year with him."

Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido said: "Manchester City are buying a great player, the top-scoring Spaniard in La Liga.

"This is a big deal for Sevilla, the second most important in our history after we sold [now-Barcelona full-back] Daniel Alves, and the player will sign the contract of his life.

"Everyone should be happy - it is a great deal for all three parties."

Sevilla, who have faced financial difficulties, have also soldplaymaker Luis Alberto to Liverpool, full-back Antonio Luna to Aston Villa, and midfielder Jose Campana to Crystal Palace.

Manchester City: Stevan Jovetic deal agreed with Fiorentina

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 19 Jul 2013 09:40:00 +0000

Manchester City: Stevan Jovetic deal agreed with Fiorentina

Manchester City will make Fiorentina striker Stevan Jovetic their fourth high-profile signing of the summer, subject to a medical on Friday.

City moved quickly to finalise the £22m deal for the Montenegro international as new boss Manuel Pellegrini continues to reshape his squad.

Jovetic, 23, had attracted interest from Arsenal and Manchester United.

City will also announce the signing of Sevilla forward Alvaro Negredo after he passed a medical on Thursday.

• Stevan Jovetic

Born: Titograd, 2 November, 1989
Nickname: The Montenegrin Messi
Clubs: Mladost Podgorica, Partizan Belgrade, Fiorentina
International: Montenegro - 27 caps, 10 goals

With the arrival of Jovetic and 27-year-old Negredo, who scored 26 La Liga goals last season, City will take their spending since the arrival of Pellegrini to almost £90m.

They have already signed Jesus Navasfrom Sevilla for or £14.9m and Fernandinho from Shakhtar Donetsk for £30m.

Jovetic scored 13 goals in 31 games for Fiorentina last season and will help Pellegrini fill the void left by the departure of Mario Balotelli and Carlos Tevez.

City manager Pellegrini has left the club's pre-season training camp in South Africa to return home to Chile to deal with a personal matter although he could rejoin the squad in Hong Kong early next week.

Assistant manager Brian Kidd, who had a brief spell in charge afterRoberto Mancini's sacking at the end of last season, took charge of City's 2-1 friendly defeat to AmaZulu in Durban.

Kidd said: "Manuel's had to go back to Chile for personal reasons.

"Hopefully he will be in Hong Kong on Tuesday, but we are not quite sure at the moment. You want the boss here for obvious reasons.

"The team were well prepared by him for this game. It's been a good work out in South Africa with two tough games."

Manchester United manager David Moyes has again insisted Wayne Rooney is not for sale after Chelsea said the England striker is their sole transfer target.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 19 Jul 2013 09:36:00 +0000

Wayne Rooney: David Moyes says Man Utd striker not for sale

Manchester United manager David Moyes has again insisted Wayne Rooney is not for sale after Chelsea said the England striker is their sole transfer target.

Speaking at a news conference in Sydney, the United boss said: "The club's position has not changed."

Continue reading the main story

“We are trying very hard to make some additions”

David MoyesMan Utd boss

Moyes is also keen to discover how the bid to lure Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas to United is progressing.

He said: "I'm in contact with our chief executive who is dealing with the issue and hope to know more in a day or so."

New Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has already had one bid for Rooney rejected.

The 26-year-old has been left "angered and confused" by suggestions he is viewed as back-up to Robin Van Persie at United and on Thursday Mourinho issued a World Cup warning to "second-choice players", a statement widely viewed as being a message aimed at Rooney.

Rooney's Premier League goals

2002-03: Six	2003-04: Nine	2004-05: 11
2005-06: 16	2006-07: 14	2007-08: 12
2008-09: 12	2009-10: 26	2010-11: 11
2011-12: 27	2012-13: 12	Total: 156

The striker was at United's training complex on Thursday for ongoing treatment on his hamstring injury after flying home from the club's pre-season tour.

Manchester United are currently in Australia preparing for a match against the A-League All Stars in Sydney on Saturday.

The Premier League champions have yet to make any summer signings, having missed out on Barcelona's Thiago Alcantara, although they continue to be linked withEverton duo Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines.

United have had a formal offer for Fabregas rejected by Barcelona, but executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward has left United's pre-season tour to continue negotiations.

When asked what the latest position is, Moyes said: "I couldn't tell you exactly, the chief executive [Woodward] is dealing with it. Hopefully we'll know more in the next few days.

"As far as players we are looking to bring in are concerned, we are working hard to do that.

"We are trying very hard to make some additions. Hopefully there will be some good news in the not too distant future."

Jose Mourinho praises Chelsea vision of Roman Abramovich

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 17 Jul 2013 12:40:00 +0000

Jose Mourinho praises Chelsea vision of Roman Abramovich

Jose Mourinho believes Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has out-thought his Premier League rivals as clubs seek to comply with financial fair play rules.

Manager Mourinho thinks the benefits of buying young players in recent years are now being seen at Chelsea.

The London club have signed and loaned out players such as Romelu Lukaku, Kevin de Bruyne and Tomas Kalas.

"With the current Chelsea squad, [Abramovich] was thinking ahead of the others," said Mourinho.

The main thrust of Uefa's financial fair play regulations requires clubs that seek to play in European competitions to balance their books or else face sporting or financial sanctions.

Chelsea's returning trio

Romelu Lukaku: Scored 17 goals in 33 Premier League appearances for West Brom last season

Tomas Kalas: Spent the past two seasons at Vitesse Arnhem playing centre-half and right-back

Kevin de Bruyne: Has impressed at Werder Bremen having moved from the wing to a central role

The Premier League has also established financial controls as governing bodies seek to limit excessive spending and narrow the competitive gap between rich teams and those on more modest incomes.

"When Chelsea were buying lots of young players, but the young players were not yet ready to come to play for Chelsea, I was in Italy," added Mourinho, 50.

"I was listening and reading some of the critics.

"You can see this season we have De Bruyne, Lukaku, Kalas. We've brought back three or four players with zero investment now because the investment was made before.

"If people want to follow financial fair play - and we will, I don't know if others are keen to do it but we will - he was thinking ahead."

Belgian De Bruyne, 22, signed from Genk in 2012 but was loaned back to the club who sold him and then out to German side Werder Bremen last season.

Lukaku, 20 and also from Belgium, joined in 2011 and scored 17 goals while on loan at West Brom for the 2012-13 campaign.

Czech defender Kalas, 20, signed from Sigma Olomouc in July 2011 and immediately rejoined the selling club on loan. He then spent two seasons at Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem.

The trio, who cost in the region of £20m, have been added to the Chelsea first-team squad for the forthcoming season.

The London club also have developing players such as Patrick van Aanholt, Thibaut Courtois, Gael Kakuta and Oriol Romeu out on loan for the new season.

Mourinho, who will take charge of Chelsea for the first time since leaving the club in 2007 when his team take on Singha All Stars on Wednesday, also thinks his squad needs a long period of managerial stability.

Since buying the club in 2003, Abramovich has employed nine different managers, including Mourinho's first spell at the club between 2004 and 2007.

"When you see the profile of this squad, it needs a manager for a long time," added the Portuguese.

"We have a median age of 26.3, including Mark Schwarzer at 40 years old and two or three players at 32, 33.

"So if we take out these players, we drop to a very, very young squad - and that young squad needs stability.

Play media

Mourinho dismisses Europa League win

"Stability in football terms only the manager can give them. So I'm here for that."

Mourinho admitted that during his first spell as manager he was not ready to commit long-term to the team as he wanted to coach in other countries.

He moved first to Inter Milan, where he won two Serie A titles and the Champions League, before leaving for Real Madrid, where he won the Spanish La Liga in 2012.

"In the beginning I was not ready," he said. "I wanted to make a different kind of history.

"I wanted to win here, to win there, to be champion in the most important countries."

Edinson Cavani joins Paris St-Germain from Napoli for £55m

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 17 Jul 2013 12:35:00 +0000

Edinson Cavani joins Paris St-Germain from Napoli for £55m

Paris St-Germain have announced the signing of Uruguay striker Edinson Cavani from Napoli for a reported £55m.

The 26-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the French champions, who are backed by Qatar Sports Investments.

Cavani scored 78 league goals in three seasons with Napoli and finished top scorer in Serie A last season.

"The transfer of Edinson Cavani is further proof of the club's ability to attract the best players in the world," said PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi.

Cavani factfile

Born: 14 February 1987
Club career: Danubio (2005-07), Palermo (2007-10), Napoli (2010-13)
Napoli record: Has earned a reputation as one of the best strikers playing in Europe, scoring 102 goals in 136 games for Napoli in all competitions
International record: Performed a key role in the Uruguay squads that finished fourth at the 2010 World Cup and won the Copa America a year later

"The player was seduced by the club's sporting project and is delighted to be joining an ambitious side, impatient to take on new challenges.

"We are especially happy to present such a hugely coveted player of immense talent to our supporters."

The deal means Cavani is the most expensive transfer in French football history, eclipsing the £50m that Monaco are reported to have paid Atletico Madrid for Colombia forward Radamel Falcao.

He will line up alongside Sweden international Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who was named Ligue 1 player of the year after he scored 30 goals in his debut season in France following his £15.7m arrival from AC Milan.

Cavani, who was a target for Manchester City and also linked with Chelsea and Real Madrid, says he joined Laurent Blanc's side to challenge for major honours.

"I'd like to thank everyone who made this transfer possible, it's a great project," Cavani said.

"I'd also like to thank the people in Napoli who went out of their way to make it possible.

"I come here with lots of joy, lots of confidence, lots of hunger and lots of motivation to win major trophies.