Cole completes awaited move

Andy Cole has completed a transfer from Man City to Portsmouth.

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp has been trying to strengthen his squad throughout the summer and the arrival of Andy Cole will be a great boost to their Premiership campaign.

After passing a medical today Cole completed his move and hopefully we'll have some more news on this later, including quotes from the player and manager.

West Ham shock Arsenal with massive star signings

West Ham have shocked Arsenal and many people involved with football around the world by signing both Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano on year long loan deals.

Anyone would have thought that Arsenal would be the club to go to over West Ham but in this case it looks like it's a matter of where first team football would be easiest to come by.

Now Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will have to look elsewhere or settle for what he has got as the deadline is tonight.

Aston Villa fail to make star signing

A move for Javier Saviola to Aston Villa will not go through as the players agent Alfredo Cabrera Brizuela insists his client wants another level.

The move never looked likely from the start but it shows that new boss Martin O'Neill is very optimistic and feels he can bring some of the biggest talent to the club.

"The propositions are important, but Javier wants another level." said Alfredo Cabrera Brizuela.

Blackburn in striker talks

Blackburn Rovers are currently in talks with Roma over a loan deal for Shabani Nonda.

Blackburn are looking to strenghthen their attack for the Premiership season and Roma are willing to let the 29-year old go.

With two years left to run on his current deal, there is an option for Blackburn to make a purchase for the player when the loan has expired in the summer.

Sven getting £13,000-per-week from the FA

News that Sven Goran-Eriksson is still being paid by the Football association has angered Wigan chairman Dave Whelan.

Even before the World Cup when Sven committed gross misconduct, Whelan stood up and said the FA that Sven should be sacked. That was the perfect opportunity to get rid of the Swede in his view.

However, Sven was not sacked by the FA and is now still getting paid a reported £13,000-per-week.

"Before the World Cup started and when he committed gross misconduct I then stood up and said to The FA sack him, and take the opportunity to get rid of him," said Whelan to Sky Sports News.

"We could have walked away from the contract we had, we would have done a lot better at the World Cup.

"The FA missed a golden opportunity to get rid of probably the worst manager England have ever, ever had.

"Brian Barwick has a hell of a task on there, he has to knock some sense into The FA, it's not going to be easy.

Newcastle make shock Man Utd transfer

Manchester United striker Giuseppe Rossi has taken a loan move to Newcastle United.

The news comes as quite a shock and out the blue as there were no rumours or speculation before hand.

Man Utd boss Alex Ferguson admits it was a big decision for the club as they don't have a great choice of strikers at the moment, however, Rossie will gain vital experience playing at Newcastle and will come back to the club a better player.

The loan deal runs out in January.

"It was a big decision for us, especially as we don't have the choice of strikers," said Ferguson to the Man United official website.

"But this is something that Giuseppe wanted, as he needs regular first-team football.

"When he returns, he will be a more experienced player who will be able to offer us much more."

Drogba: All this stuff makes it more difficult

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba is calling for William Gallas to clear the air with the club.

Drogba insists they can't have a divided team if they are to succeed and meet the challenges ahead.

Jose Mourinho recently stated that Gallas should hold a press conference so he can tell everyone how he feels and what's going on with him and his future. Now Drogba is backing his manager and wants Gallas to follow through with what Mourinho is saying.

"We can't have a divided team if we are to succeed," said Drogba to The Sun.

"We have to stay focused with the stiff challenges ahead.

"All this stuff just makes it more difficult. Like the manager said recently, William Gallas is the only person who can clear the air on this matter.

"I cannot read his mind. He is a good guy with great energy but, unless he speaks up, no-one will know what to say and no-one can move on."

Arsenal agree deal with Real Madrid for stars

Sky Sports are reporting that Jose Antonio Reyes is on his way to Real Madrid.

It looked unlikely that a deal would happen between the two clubs as Real Madrid would not match what Arsenal wanted for the player.

However, the deal will see Real Madrid's Julio Baptista go one way and Arsenal's Reyes go the other.

Reyes has been desperate to secure his dream move to Real Madrid and at one point it looked like he'd settle for Atletico.

Tottenham and Liverpool transfer denied

Rumours regarding a transfer of Harry Kewell from Liverpool have been denied by the players agent.

Kewell had been linked with a move to Tottenham as they look to add to their midfielder as their bid for Stuart Downing is looking unlikely to materialise.

However, Kewell's agent Bernie Mandic insists there hasn't been a single word from anyone at Liverpool about Harry leaving.

"There has never been a single word from anyone at Liverpool about Harry leaving," said Mandic to The Independent.

Arsenal waiting on work-permit decision

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has his fingers crossed that a visa will be granted to Sho Ito.

The Japan under 21's international has impressed the Arsenal boss and a fee has been agreed with the players club and a contract has been agreed with the player. Now the only thing in the way of making the transfer happen is the international clearance.

At the age of just 18 it's hard to get yourself a work-permit unless you have exeptional talent and that's just what Wenger has applied for.

"I like him, I want to sign him and we are applying for a working visa for him on the basis of exceptional talent," said Wenger.

"Last season we had an exceptional talent visa for a Cameroon international, Alex Song, and this player looks another exciting prospect."

Middlesbrough youngster doesn't know where he gets it from

Middlesbrough ace Lee Cattermole has raised eyebrows since launching himself into the first team.

At such a young age of 18, Cattermole has took the Premiership by storm, most notably when he got stuck in against Chelsea after just recovering from an ankle injury.

A battling player, the midfielder insists he doesn't know where he gets it from as his brother is a terrific footballer but so laidback.

"That is part of my game - and it always will be," said Cattermole to the Daily Express.

"I don't really knows where I get it from because my brother was a terrific footballer but was always so laidback.

"I am the exact opposite. As a kid I wanted to win at everything and I am still the same now.

"Where the fire comes from, I don't know."

Bolton signing reveals Blackburn and Fulham bids

Bolton new signing Nicholas Anelka has revealed a number of clubs were chasing his signature this summer.

The former Fenerbache player had bids from Fulham, Blackburn and Bolton. However, Bolton were the only club to match the price that the club were after.

A proven goalscorer, Anelka has been linked with many clubs over time including Newcastle United. But, the decision came down to Fenerbahce as they were the only thing getting in the way of him talking.

"Bolton is the club which met the fee asked by Fenerbahce, in a way Fenerbahce decided where I would go," said Anelka to L'Equipe.

"I would have had the choice of several clubs had they come in with the fee.

"But that was not the case with Fulham and Blackburn who also were interested in me recently."

Bayern team-mate gives Hargreaves Man Utd advice

Bayern Munich ace Oliver Kahn insists that Owen Hargreaves has to be professional about his Man Utd situation.

Hargreaves signed a new contract with the club not long ago but is now desperate for a move to Man Utd.

Kahn insists you cannot just sign a new three or four year contract and then disappear at the first opportunity.

Man Utd are being forced to drop their interest in the Bayern Munich ace and Fergie will be disappointed.

"You cannot just sign a new three or four year contract and then disappear at the first opportunity," said Kahn to DSF television.

"You have got to be professional, perform as best you can, show a reaction and give it 100%.

"After all, football is not a concert in which you get to pick your favourite songs."

Man Utd ace doesn't approve of Real Madrid sale

Man Utd striker Louis Saha appears to be disappointed that Ruud van Nistelrooy was sold to Real Madrid.

Saha wasn't a regular started in the Man Utd team last season, that's mainly because Nistelrooy was hitting the back of the net so often.

However, after a bust-up at the training ground, Nistelrooy was dropped by Fergie and then later sold to Real Madrid.

"When you lose a player capable of scoring 40 goals in one season, I don't think that giving him to Real Madrid is a good thing, considering we will face them at one point or another," said Saha.

"It is true that his departure will certainly allow me to play a little bit more and I take Sir Alex Ferguson's trust as a compliment, but I have always done my best whether Ruud is there or not. Nothing has changed for me."

Dowie: We felt we had a very strong case

Charlton boss Iain Dowie is disappointed a work-permit was rejected for Christian Bolanos.

Dowie felt that Charlton had a very strong case to bring the Costa Rican to England as he's an emerging talent.

However, the home-office didn't see it this way and decided to reject the proposal, both parties will be very disappointed.

"We felt we had a very strong case," said Dowie.

"Christian is an emerging talent and has become a fixture in the Costa Rica side despite his age.

"So it is very disappointing, not just for us but for the lad as well."

Ballack admits Man Utd nerves

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack appears to be feeling a bit of pressure in the Premiership title race already.

The Chelsea summer signing was well aware they only had three points before their last game and Man Utd were already on nine.

However, after a good display Chelsea managed to grab the three points and make that gap between them and United smaller.

"It was a very important win for us because before the game we had only three points and United had nine," said Ballack to the Daily Express.

"Maybe we were a little nervous because we had lost the previous game and United won on Saturday.

"As a result, we made too many mistakes in the first half. But then we improved and we made enough chances to win."

Real Madrid midfielder snubs Newcastle

Real Madrid midfielder Thomas Gravesen has agreed a deal with Scottish side Celtic.

Gravesen was also a target for Premiership side Newcastle as boss Glenn Roeder stated that they would be interested.

However, Gravesen has opted to join Celtic after suffering a lack of first team football at Real Madrid.

"I can only say Gordon Strachan, John Sivebaek (Gravesen's agent) and myself have come to an agreement and we are going to release a statement tomorrow," said Gravesen to the Daily Record.

Arsenal ace makes exit message clear

Arsenal midfielder Jose Antonio Reyes is edging closer to joining Atletico Madrid.

There has been much speculation for a couple of seasons now that Reyes is on his way to Spain. Real Madrid were the preference but Reyes would be happy to join Atletico.

Arsenal are rumoured to have already rejected a bid from Atletico because it was short of what they wanted, however, a bigger bid and Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger would be happy to accept.

"I want to leave Arsenal but not just to play anywhere - I do not want to lose my prestige," said Reyes to the Guardian.

"I am excited about the prospect of going to Atletico. They are building an exciting team.

Anelka reveals other bids

Bolton new signing Nicholas Anelka has revealed a number of clubs were chasing his signature this summer.

The former Fenerbache player had bids from Fulham, Blackburn and Bolton. However, Bolton were the only club to match the price that the club were after.

A proven goalscorer, Anelka has been linked with many clubs over time including Newcastle United. But, the decision came down to Fenerbahce as they were the only thing getting in the way of him talking.

"Bolton is the club which met the fee asked by Fenerbahce, in a way Fenerbahce decided where I would go," said Anelka to L'Equipe.

"I would have had the choice of several clubs had they come in with the fee.

"But that was not the case with Fulham and Blackburn who also were interested in me recently."

Bayern Munich ace told to forget Man Utd

Bayern Munich ace Oliver Kahn insists that Owen Hargreaves has to be professional about his Man Utd situation.

Hargreaves signed a new contract with the club not long ago but is now desperate for a move to Man Utd.

Kahn insists you cannot just sign a new three or four year contract and then disappear at the first opportunity.

Man Utd are being forced to drop their interest in the Bayern Munich ace and Fergie will be disappointed.

"You cannot just sign a new three or four year contract and then disappear at the first opportunity," said Kahn to DSF television.

"You have got to be professional, perform as best you can, show a reaction and give it 100%.

"After all, football is not a concert in which you get to pick your favourite songs."

Saha - Selling Nistelrooy wasn't a good thing

Man Utd striker Louis Saha appears to be disappointed that Ruud van Nistelrooy was sold to Real Madrid.

Saha wasn't a regular started in the Man Utd team last season, that's mainly because Nistelrooy was hitting the back of the net so often.

However, after a bust-up at the training ground, Nistelrooy was dropped by Fergie and then later sold to Real Madrid.

"When you lose a player capable of scoring 40 goals in one season, I don't think that giving him to Real Madrid is a good thing, considering we will face them at one point or another," said Saha.

"It is true that his departure will certainly allow me to play a little bit more and I take Sir Alex Ferguson's trust as a compliment, but I have always done my best whether Ruud is there or not. Nothing has changed for me."

Charlton see application rejected

Charlton boss Iain Dowie is disappointed a work-permit was rejected for Christian Bolanos.

Dowie felt that Charlton had a very strong case to bring the Costa Rican to England as he's an emerging talent.

However, the home-office didn't see it this way and decided to reject the proposal, both parties will be very disappointed.

"We felt we had a very strong case," said Dowie.

"Christian is an emerging talent and has become a fixture in the Costa Rica side despite his age.

"So it is very disappointing, not just for us but for the lad as well."

Chelsea ace feeling the pressure

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack appears to be feeling a bit of pressure in the Premiership title race already.

The Chelsea summer signing was well aware they only had three points before their last game and Man Utd were already on nine.

However, after a good display Chelsea managed to grab the three points and make that gap between them and United smaller.

"It was a very important win for us because before the game we had only three points and United had nine," said Ballack to the Daily Express.

"Maybe we were a little nervous because we had lost the previous game and United won on Saturday.

"As a result, we made too many mistakes in the first half. But then we improved and we made enough chances to win."

Celtic sign Newcastle target

Real Madrid midfielder Thomas Gravesen has agreed a deal with Scottish side Celtic.

Gravesen was also a target for Premiership side Newcastle as boss Glenn Roeder stated that they would be interested.

However, Gravesen has opted to join Celtic after suffering a lack of first team football at Real Madrid.

"I can only say Gordon Strachan, John Sivebaek (Gravesen's agent) and myself have come to an agreement and we are going to release a statement tomorrow," said Gravesen to the Daily Record.

I want to leave Arsenal

Arsenal midfielder Jose Antonio Reyes is edging closer to joining Atletico Madrid.

There has been much speculation for a couple of seasons now that Reyes is on his way to Spain. Real Madrid were the preference but Reyes would be happy to join Atletico.

Arsenal are rumoured to have already rejected a bid from Atletico because it was short of what they wanted, however, a bigger bid and Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger would be happy to accept.

"I want to leave Arsenal but not just to play anywhere - I do not want to lose my prestige," said Reyes to the Guardian.

"I am excited about the prospect of going to Atletico. They are building an exciting team.

Star on target for Tottenham return

Ledley King has handed Tottenham a major boost after admitted he could be set for a return against Manchester United.

The big defender has certainly been missed in the heart of the Tottenham defence. After missing the first three games of the season due to knee surgery, King is hoping to be back for the next game.

It'll be a big game for Tottenham as Man Utd are currently on top form and they'll need to be fielding all of their best players.

"I think I'm on target for that. With the internationals it's two weeks before the United game so the break has worked out well for me," said King to the Tottenham official website.

"I haven't missed that many games, just three in the first week, so that's not too bad. I can't wait to get back out there first in full training and then the games."

Mourinho wants Gallas to talk

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho wants William Gallas to tell the world in a press conference just what he wants and his reasons for it.

Gallas has rejected a new contract from Chelsea and made many comments that he wishes to leave the club. Arsenal and Milan are both interested in signing Gallas but nothing has come of that yet, despite Gallas being desperate to get out.

Now Mourinho wants Gallas to call a press conference so that he can give people some answers.

"The best thing to do is to ask him. People should talk to his agent and try to have a press conference with Gallas" said Mourinho.

"There are a lot of answers but answers he should be the one to tell.

"It is not that I don't want to tell but I shouldn't be the one to say things that he should tell. This situation deserves a press conference with the player."

Newcastle to swoop Chelsea defender

The Newcastle Evening Chronicle are reporting that Glenn Roeder is set to make a bid for Chelsea player Robert Huth.

The defender has been under speculation throughout the summer and Newcastle have always been in the spotlight regarding the players future.

Time is now running out as the deadline is on Thursday and with the recent exit of Boumsong, Newcastle are almost desperate to find a replacement.

"I am living on the mobile phone at the moment, but one of the biggest problems we have is that the season has now started in the rest of Europe," said Roeder.

"Coaches have got their squads together and it is proving difficult to prise players away."

Man Utd to give up hope on big signing

The agent of Bayern Munich midfielder Owen Hargreaves has revealed there is no chance of a move to Manchester United taking place.

Grill insists that we have to accept there is no way they will allow the transfer to happen but Hargreaves is hoping Man Utd will remain interested so a transfer could go through in the January window or at the end of the season.

Bayern Munich have been reluctant to sell Hargreaves who has been so desperate to move to Man Utd.

"There is no chance of the deal taking place," said Grill to the Daily Star.

"We have to accept there is no way they will allow this transfer to happen.

"We did everything we could to grant Owen his wish to play for United, but his only hope is that, if United remain interested, the deal could happen in the January transfer window or next summer."

Barry virtually asked Aston Villa for a move

Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry admits he was very close to leaving the club before Martin O'Neill's appointment.

Barry had asked the club for a move before David O'Leary got the sack. However, when O'Neill was appointed, he was persuaded to stay at the club and Barry admits the new boss said all the right things and managed to change his mind.

Barry originally wanted a move away from the club because he was thinking about his career. Aston Villa seemed to be a club with no future ambitions. However, with a new boss and new owners, Villa are a club who will be climbing higher and higher.

"I'd virtually asked the club for a move," said Barry.

"I'd made my decision before David O'Leary got the sack.

"Then he got sacked and I was in no man's land. The club just wanted me to hold on and wait for the new manager and, thankfully, it was the right thing to do.

"I thought I had to move on for the sake of my career. But I saw the reception when Martin was appointed and it started me thinking 'Is it the right thing to move on?'

"I had a few conversations with the manager and he slowly changed my mind.

"He has said all the right things. He is the sort of man you can listen to and take it in.

"He has always got the best out of his players. He can get the average players playing good and the good players playing great. That's a sign of a good manager."

Schwarzer crosses Mourinho

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has fired back comments to Middlesbrough goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.

Schwarzer comments after Middlesbrough win over the Premiership giants that they were bad losers. However, Mourinho has fired back insisting the goalkeeper obviously didn't see the Chelsea players swapping shirts.

Mourinho goes on to give Schwarzer a good telling off, 'Don't say stupid things just because you have won a big game'.

"This isn't a case of us being bad losers," said Mourinho in The Sun, "it is a case of someone who is not used to beating the big teams getting confused.

"In football, it is very difficult for the big people to lose matches and very difficult for the small people to win them.

"When you are used to winning big games and you lose, you still have to know how to behave and my players do this.

"I think Schwarzer is a good goalkeeper and I never suspected he would have vision problems.

"But he obviously didn't see the Chelsea players exchanging shirts.

"Don't say stupid things just because you have won a big game."

Man Utd striker bid rejected

Juventus have rejected a bid from Man Utd for David Trezeguet.

The striker had been a big target for Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson since the exit of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Juventus' relegation to Serie B.

However, despite Fergie's big bid, it wasn't enought to attract Trezeguet away from the club as sporting director Alessio Secco reveals that Trezeguet has decided to stay.

"Trezeguet will remain at Juve. David has an agreement with us and he has decided to stay," said Secco.

"Our relationship has been well defined and he's happy to play with us. But I go forward: even if he became unhappy, he will remain with us.

"I've read Trezeguet would have refused to go to Neaples for the Coppa Italia match, but that's false.

"After the match with Cesena he had intoxicated muscles and he couldn't play. That's the reason we left him at home."

I have a contract with Real Madrid

Real Madrid striker Ronaldo admits he has a desire to join Milan.

The clubs were believed to be in negotiations but nothing has come of it. Ronaldo is hopeful of a move and he admits he can't say he wouldn't join Milan.

Ronaldo's family want him to get away from Madrid but he's happy to carry on.

Despite being a bit overweight in the World Cup, Ronaldo scored some terrific goals, showing that he still has that quality within him.

"I have a contract with Real Madrid, but I can't decide alone," said Ronaldo to Gazzetta dello Sport.

"Anyway, I'm proud to know that two of the world's strongest sides, both from the same city, would like to sign me. In Madrid you live in a good way, but in Milan too.

"With Inter I lived a really beautiful story. The interest of Nerazzurri is serious, but no I can't tell Moratti I will never go to Milan.

"My family want me to stop playing for Selecao, but I would like to continue,

"The new coach will decide, my friend Dunga. I won't be under pressure. In my career I've never asked for favours."

Barwick insists Sven wasn't an expensive mistake

Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick has denied that Sven Goran-Eriksson was an expensive mistake.

After guiding England to a number of quarter finals but never being able to get further than that last eight, England were knocked out by Portugal this year in the World Cup finals.

The World Cup looked like England's time to shine but it simply wasn't meant to be and that left everyone disappointed, including Sven.

"In qualification terms he was 100 percent in major tournaments, but he himself would say three quarter finals would not be considered the success he would have looked for," said Barwick to BBC Radio Five Live.

"He thought this time there would be every chance of success, but it did not happen.

"An expensive mistake? I would not accept that notion, but we were all disappointed, him included."

Roma want Tottenham player

Tottenham defender Lee Young-pyo is on the verge of a move to Roma.

The players agent, Sung-Won, revealed that his client have agreed a transfer in principle and now a contract is being negotiated.

There are also rumours that the deal could see Egyptian striker Mido coming the other way. A player that Tottenham had on loan last season and certainly a player that knew how to hit the back of the net.

"Tottenham and AS Roma have agreed in principle to the transfer of Young-pyo Lee," said Sung-Won to the Yonhap news agency.

"We are in talks with AS Roma on detailed contract terms.

"You can consider the deal as almost sealed, as the only remaining procedure is the player's decision."

Tottenham ace set for Man Utd return

Ledley King has handed Tottenham a major boost after admitted he could be set for a return against Manchester United.

The big defender has certainly been missed in the heart of the Tottenham defence. After missing the first three games of the season due to knee surgery, King is hoping to be back for the next game.

It'll be a big game for Tottenham as Man Utd are currently on top form and they'll need to be fielding all of their best players.

"I think I'm on target for that. With the internationals it's two weeks before the United game so the break has worked out well for me," said King to the Tottenham official website.

"I haven't missed that many games, just three in the first week, so that's not too bad. I can't wait to get back out there first in full training and then the games."

Mourinho wants Gallas to call press conference

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho wants William Gallas to tell the world in a press conference just what he wants and his reasons for it.

Gallas has rejected a new contract from Chelsea and made many comments that he wishes to leave the club. Arsenal and Milan are both interested in signing Gallas but nothing has come of that yet, despite Gallas being desperate to get out.

Now Mourinho wants Gallas to call a press conference so that he can give people some answers.

"The best thing to do is to ask him. People should talk to his agent and try to have a press conference with Gallas" said Mourinho.

"There are a lot of answers but answers he should be the one to tell.

"It is not that I don't want to tell but I shouldn't be the one to say things that he should tell. This situation deserves a press conference with the player."

Newcastle to make £5million Chelsea bid

The Newcastle Evening Chronicle are reporting that Glenn Roeder is set to make a bid for Chelsea player Robert Huth.

The defender has been under speculation throughout the summer and Newcastle have always been in the spotlight regarding the players future.

Time is now running out as the deadline is on Thursday and with the recent exit of Boumsong, Newcastle are almost desperate to find a replacement.

"I am living on the mobile phone at the moment, but one of the biggest problems we have is that the season has now started in the rest of Europe," said Roeder.

"Coaches have got their squads together and it is proving difficult to prise players away."

No chance on move to Man Utd

The agent of Bayern Munich midfielder Owen Hargreaves has revealed there is no chance of a move to Manchester United taking place.

Grill insists that we have to accept there is no way they will allow the transfer to happen but Hargreaves is hoping Man Utd will remain interested so a transfer could go through in the January window or at the end of the season.

Bayern Munich have been reluctant to sell Hargreaves who has been so desperate to move to Man Utd.

"There is no chance of the deal taking place," said Grill to the Daily Star.

"We have to accept there is no way they will allow this transfer to happen.

"We did everything we could to grant Owen his wish to play for United, but his only hope is that, if United remain interested, the deal could happen in the January transfer window or next summer."

Aston Villa ace admits near exit

Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry admits he was very close to leaving the club before Martin O'Neill's appointment.

Barry had asked the club for a move before David O'Leary got the sack. However, when O'Neill was appointed, he was persuaded to stay at the club and Barry admits the new boss said all the right things and managed to change his mind.

Barry originally wanted a move away from the club because he was thinking about his career. Aston Villa seemed to be a club with no future ambitions. However, with a new boss and new owners, Villa are a club who will be climbing higher and higher.

"I'd virtually asked the club for a move," said Barry.

"I'd made my decision before David O'Leary got the sack.

"Then he got sacked and I was in no man's land. The club just wanted me to hold on and wait for the new manager and, thankfully, it was the right thing to do.

"I thought I had to move on for the sake of my career. But I saw the reception when Martin was appointed and it started me thinking 'Is it the right thing to move on?'

"I had a few conversations with the manager and he slowly changed my mind.

"He has said all the right things. He is the sort of man you can listen to and take it in.

"He has always got the best out of his players. He can get the average players playing good and the good players playing great. That's a sign of a good manager."

Tottenham set to sign striker after medical

Tottenham are set to sign Roma striker Mido.

Egypt boss Hassan Shehata revealed that the player will travel to London to have a medical before signing, he will then return to Egypt today and join up with the national team.

Mido spent last season on loan to Tottenham and impressed boss Martin Jol. Then returning to Roma he was hoping to be a success there. However, rumours have been circling that he's fallen out with the current manager and so a move to Tottenham is almost complete.

"Mido told me he will travel to London to have a medical before signing for Tottenham," said Shehata to The Sun.

"He will be back in Egypt on Wednesday to join up with his colleagues in the national team."

Mourinho gives Middlesbrough keeper a good telling off

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has fired back comments to Middlesbrough goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.

Schwarzer comments after Middlesbrough win over the Premiership giants that they were bad losers. However, Mourinho has fired back insisting the goalkeeper obviously didn't see the Chelsea players swapping shirts.

Mourinho goes on to give Schwarzer a good telling off, 'Don't say stupid things just because you have won a big game'.

"This isn't a case of us being bad losers," said Mourinho in The Sun, "it is a case of someone who is not used to beating the big teams getting confused.

"In football, it is very difficult for the big people to lose matches and very difficult for the small people to win them.

"When you are used to winning big games and you lose, you still have to know how to behave and my players do this.

"I think Schwarzer is a good goalkeeper and I never suspected he would have vision problems.

"But he obviously didn't see the Chelsea players exchanging shirts.

"Don't say stupid things just because you have won a big game."

£17m Man Utd bid rejected

Juventus have rejected a bid from Man Utd for David Trezeguet.

The striker had been a big target for Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson since the exit of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Juventus' relegation to Serie B.

However, despite Fergie's big bid, it wasn't enought to attract Trezeguet away from the club as sporting director Alessio Secco reveals that Trezeguet has decided to stay.

"Trezeguet will remain at Juve. David has an agreement with us and he has decided to stay," said Secco.

"Our relationship has been well defined and he's happy to play with us. But I go forward: even if he became unhappy, he will remain with us.

"I've read Trezeguet would have refused to go to Neaples for the Coppa Italia match, but that's false.

"After the match with Cesena he had intoxicated muscles and he couldn't play. That's the reason we left him at home."

Ronaldo would take Milan switch

Real Madrid striker Ronaldo admits he has a desire to join Milan.

The clubs were believed to be in negotiations but nothing has come of it. Ronaldo is hopeful of a move and he admits he can't say he wouldn't join Milan.

Ronaldo's family want him to get away from Madrid but he's happy to carry on.

Despite being a bit overweight in the World Cup, Ronaldo scored some terrific goals, showing that he still has that quality within him.

"I have a contract with Real Madrid, but I can't decide alone," said Ronaldo to Gazzetta dello Sport.

"Anyway, I'm proud to know that two of the world's strongest sides, both from the same city, would like to sign me. In Madrid you live in a good way, but in Milan too.

"With Inter I lived a really beautiful story. The interest of Nerazzurri is serious, but no I can't tell Moratti I will never go to Milan.

"My family want me to stop playing for Selecao, but I would like to continue,

"The new coach will decide, my friend Dunga. I won't be under pressure. In my career I've never asked for favours."

Sven was not an expensive mistake

Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick has denied that Sven Goran-Eriksson was an expensive mistake.

After guiding England to a number of quarter finals but never being able to get further than that last eight, England were knocked out by Portugal this year in the World Cup finals.

The World Cup looked like England's time to shine but it simply wasn't meant to be and that left everyone disappointed, including Sven.

"In qualification terms he was 100 percent in major tournaments, but he himself would say three quarter finals would not be considered the success he would have looked for," said Barwick to BBC Radio Five Live.

"He thought this time there would be every chance of success, but it did not happen.

"An expensive mistake? I would not accept that notion, but we were all disappointed, him included."

Roma nearing Tottenham deal

Tottenham defender Lee Young-pyo is on the verge of a move to Roma.

The players agent, Sung-Won, revealed that his client have agreed a transfer in principle and now a contract is being negotiated.

There are also rumours that the deal could see Egyptian striker Mido coming the other way. A player that Tottenham had on loan last season and certainly a player that knew how to hit the back of the net.

"Tottenham and AS Roma have agreed in principle to the transfer of Young-pyo Lee," said Sung-Won to the Yonhap news agency.

"We are in talks with AS Roma on detailed contract terms.

"You can consider the deal as almost sealed, as the only remaining procedure is the player's decision."

Roeder looking for Boumsong replacement

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder has revealed that the club are looking to bring in a new defender before the transfer window closes on Thursday.

Jean-Alain Boumson was recently sold to Juventus and now Newcastle need to fill the gap that he has left. Roeder insists the squad still needs to be strengthened and if he gets what he wants then he shall be happy.

There has been speculation that Jonathan Woodgate will be available on loan for a season. That wouldn't be a bad move for Newcastle at all.

"With Jean-Alain Boumsong having left the club, that's an area of the team that I hope we can strengthen before Thursday," said Roeder to the Newcastle Journal.

"We still need to strengthen the squad a bit more before the window closes and, if I can get what I want, I will be happy to attack the rest of the season with this squad.

"If I can get the three players I want, I will take my chances and be very pleased. Until the ink dries on a contract, you never know, but I think we are in pole position with them."

Aston Villa to complete transfer

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp has revealed that Petrov is going to Aston Villa.

The Celtic midfielder had been a target for Portsmouth but they couldn't agree a price, however new Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is ready to splash the cash.

Petrov will be O'Neill's first signing for Villa and he is a player that he holds in very high regard.

"I think you will find Petrov has gone to Aston Villa," said Redknapp to BBC Sport.

"That is the plan and we wish him all the best."

Newcastle in striker link

Clubcall are reporting that Roma striker Mido could be a target for Newcastle.

Newcastle have already signed Martins from Inter but if they could get Mido, that would be even better.

Mido has reportedly fallen out with the Roma coach and could well be looking for a move away from the club he so desperately wanted to prove himself at.

Newcastle are no strangers to Mido as he spent last season on a successful loan to Tottenham.

Man Utd reportedly making move for Juventus star

ITV are reporting that Man Utd are set to make a move for Juventus ace David Trezeguet.

Since Juventus were relegated to Serie B, many of their stars have been leaving the club. However, the 28-year-old is still there and insists he would be happy to stay their this season.

However, a big money bid from Man Utd could tempt Juventus into selling the striker.

Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson is a known long-term admirer of Trezeguet and is yet to replace Ruud van Nistelrooy who headed to Real Madrid earlier this month.

Not good enough to play for Man Utd yet

Manchester United could land IK Start youngster Kristofer Haestad as the player insists the club is a dream for him.

Man Utd are rumoured to hold an interest in the player but that's all it is at the minute, rumours.

Blackburn, Charlton and Chelsea have also been linked with the teenager but his preference is United.

"It is flattering in case there is something in it, but I haven't heard anything" said Haestad to TV2 Sporten.

"I have a dream of playing for United, but it is far from a dream to reality.

"Neither do I feel that I am good enough to play for United, yet. But I dream that I will be good enough in the future."

Reyes refusing to play for Arsenal

Arsenal midfielder Jose Antonio Reyes has stated he will not play in England again.

There has been much speculation regarding a move to Spain for Reyes but nothing has come of it yet as a fee hasn't been agreed.

Atletico Madrid seem to be the club who are most likely to land the midfielder but he insists he'd say yes to Atletico, Real or Sevilla.

"What I want is to come to Spain. I won't play again in England," said Reyes to Marca on Sunday.

"I want to return. If it's to play for Atletico Madrid I say yes, if it's to play for Real Madrid I say yes, if it's to play for Sevilla I say yes."

Wenger: It would be like killing them off

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed just why he doesn't splash the clash.

The Frenchman holds youngsters in high regard and feels that buying someone and putting them in ahead of them would be like killing them off. Wenger has always shown a lot of faith in his youngsters but many fans have just wanted him to splash the cash if they are expected to complete with the likes of Chelsea.

However, Wenger is to stick to his 'youth development' but insists if he wanted to spend money then he could.

"I have showed faith in our youngsters, who showed a lot of talent last season" said Wenger.

"Now if I put someone in ahead of them, it would be like killing them off. Naturally, they will have to fight for their place in the team, but if we took away their chance of playing it would kill all the work we have put in over the past three years. It is a sign of confidence because if I wanted to spend some money - a bit, anyway! - I could."

Arsenal - He's Gunner have to stay

Clubcall are reporting that Ashley Cole is set to stay at Arsenal for one more season.

The left-back has been widely believed to be joining Chelsea this summer but a transfer fee just hasn't been agreed.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has had a chat with the England defender and it's emerged that Cole is willing to dedicate himself to one more season with the Gunners.

Benitez not happy over Riise situation

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is unhappy with Norway's decision to pick John Arne Riise.

Riise has been sidelined since the clubs first game of the season against Sheffield United, where he picked up an ankle injury, but Norway have included him in their Euro 2008 qualifiers squad.

Benitez insists that Riise is simply not ready and doesn't believe it's fair they should have to go.

"John is not ready to play for Norway. The situation with John and Carra (Jamie Carragher) is the same. They are injured and I don't believe it's fair they should have to go with their national teams" said Benitez.

"The players understand that although the national team is important, the club, the
supporters and their team-mates are even more important at this moment.

"We have a lot of people with high expectations this season, who want us to achieve big things, but we played the most important game with some of our best players short of a month's preparation due to the World Cup.

"Now there are two qualifiers at the start of the season. It's crazy. This is not just a problem for Liverpool, but all the big clubs."

Bayern to bring in replacement for Man Utd bound Hargreaves

Barcelona player Mark van Bommel has left the club due to no guarantees he will play week in week out.

Bommel insisted that his chances of playing reguarly at Bayern Munich are so much greater as Michael Ballack has gone and Owen Hargreaves is close to leaving the club.

This spurs speculation that Bayern could be ready to sell Hargreaves to Man Utd and use Bommel as the replacement.

"I have left Barcelona because there were not enough guarantees that I would play every week," said van Bommel.

"With 24 top-class players, I know I can't expect that.

"But at Bayern Munich the chances of playing there are so much bigger, with Michael Ballack gone and Owen Hargreaves close to leaving the club."

Beckham to renew contract

David Beckham is to renew his contract at Real Madrid.

The former England captain is set to sign on the dotted line, pledging his future to the Spanish side.

Many have criticised that they only want to extend Beckham's contract for marketing reasons but that was denied by new president Ramon Calderon.

"Obviously it's for sporting reasons," said Calderon.

"Marketing is important but at Real Madrid the most important thing is the sporting factor and the technical (coaching) department gave the green light to renew Beckham's deal."

Benitez worried

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is hoping that people don't get too carried away with Daniel Agger.

Agger scored an amazing goal over the weekend and it's boosted his reputation even further. The youngster has always been regarded as a great player but Benitez is worried that people are talking about him like an Alan Hansen.

Benitez insists he's a player for the future, but a good player now.

"I'm worried that people are talking about him like an Alan Hansen or the other great defenders from the club's history because he's a young player" said Benitez.

"He is a young player but he's a young player who knows what to do. He's determined to improve and enjoys training. He's got a lot of confidence in himself. If you watch him training you see he's focused. He's a player with quality and he can shoot, as we've seen, but he can also play the ball.

"He's a player for the future, but he's a good player now. It's not easy to find a player of his age who's happy to play on stages like Anfield."

Lucky Newcastle

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder feels that it was very lucky Martins did not suffer a worser injury on Sundays game against Aston Villa.

Martins was stretchered off the pitch and it looked like he'd sustained a bad injury, however it was only a dead leg and he should be fit for the Fulham game.

"I think we've been very lucky" said Roeder.

"Oba has suffered a dead leg. It's quite a heavy dead leg, it has bled into the muscle, he took a nasty smack on it. I was very concerned when the stretcher came on, I thought it might be a really nasty injury.

"Thankfully it's not and I expect him to be fit for the game against Fulham. It's a let-off."

Roeder to make defender move

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder has revealed that the club are looking to bring in a new defender before the transfer window closes on Thursday.

Jean-Alain Boumson was recently sold to Juventus and now Newcastle need to fill the gap that he has left. Roeder insists the squad still needs to be strengthened and if he gets what he wants then he shall be happy.

There has been speculation that Jonathan Woodgate will be available on loan for a season. That wouldn't be a bad move for Newcastle at all.

"With Jean-Alain Boumsong having left the club, that's an area of the team that I hope we can strengthen before Thursday," said Roeder to the Newcastle Journal.

"We still need to strengthen the squad a bit more before the window closes and, if I can get what I want, I will be happy to attack the rest of the season with this squad.

"If I can get the three players I want, I will take my chances and be very pleased. Until the ink dries on a contract, you never know, but I think we are in pole position with them."

Redknapp reveals Aston Villa transfer

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp has revealed that Petrov is going to Aston Villa.

The Celtic midfielder had been a target for Portsmouth but they couldn't agree a price, however new Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is ready to splash the cash.

Petrov will be O'Neill's first signing for Villa and he is a player that he holds in very high regard.

"I think you will find Petrov has gone to Aston Villa," said Redknapp to BBC Sport.

"That is the plan and we wish him all the best."

Newcastle target Roma striker - Rumour Mill

Clubcall are reporting that Roma striker Mido could be a target for Newcastle.

Newcastle have already signed Martins from Inter but if they could get Mido, that would be even better.

Mido has reportedly fallen out with the Roma coach and could well be looking for a move away from the club he so desperately wanted to prove himself at.

Newcastle are no strangers to Mido as he spent last season on a successful loan to Tottenham.

Man Utd to make big move for Juventus striker - Rumour Mill

ITV are reporting that Man Utd are set to make a move for Juventus ace David Trezeguet.

Since Juventus were relegated to Serie B, many of their stars have been leaving the club. However, the 28-year-old is still there and insists he would be happy to stay their this season.

However, a big money bid from Man Utd could tempt Juventus into selling the striker.

Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson is a known long-term admirer of Trezeguet and is yet to replace Ruud van Nistelrooy who headed to Real Madrid earlier this month.

Haestad dreams of Man Utd move

Manchester United could land IK Start youngster Kristofer Haestad as the player insists the club is a dream for him.

Man Utd are rumoured to hold an interest in the player but that's all it is at the minute, rumours.

Blackburn, Charlton and Chelsea have also been linked with the teenager but his preference is United.

"It is flattering in case there is something in it, but I haven't heard anything" said Haestad to TV2 Sporten.

"I have a dream of playing for United, but it is far from a dream to reality.

"Neither do I feel that I am good enough to play for United, yet. But I dream that I will be good enough in the future."

Reyes: I won't play again in England

Arsenal midfielder Jose Antonio Reyes has stated he will not play in England again.

There has been much speculation regarding a move to Spain for Reyes but nothing has come of it yet as a fee hasn't been agreed.

Atletico Madrid seem to be the club who are most likely to land the midfielder but he insists he'd say yes to Atletico, Real or Sevilla.

"What I want is to come to Spain. I won't play again in England," said Reyes to Marca on Sunday.

"I want to return. If it's to play for Atletico Madrid I say yes, if it's to play for Real Madrid I say yes, if it's to play for Sevilla I say yes."

Wenger reveals why he doesn't splash the cash

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed just why he doesn't splash the clash.

The Frenchman holds youngsters in high regard and feels that buying someone and putting them in ahead of them would be like killing them off. Wenger has always shown a lot of faith in his youngsters but many fans have just wanted him to splash the cash if they are expected to complete with the likes of Chelsea.

However, Wenger is to stick to his 'youth development' but insists if he wanted to spend money then he could.

"I have showed faith in our youngsters, who showed a lot of talent last season" said Wenger.

"Now if I put someone in ahead of them, it would be like killing them off. Naturally, they will have to fight for their place in the team, but if we took away their chance of playing it would kill all the work we have put in over the past three years. It is a sign of confidence because if I wanted to spend some money - a bit, anyway! - I could."

Cole makes Arsenal decision - Rumour Mill

Clubcall are reporting that Ashley Cole is set to stay at Arsenal for one more season.

The left-back has been widely believed to be joining Chelsea this summer but a transfer fee just hasn't been agreed.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has had a chat with the England defender and it's emerged that Cole is willing to dedicate himself to one more season with the Gunners.

Benitez unhappy with Riise decision

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is unhappy with Norway's decision to pick John Arne Riise.

Riise has been sidelined since the clubs first game of the season against Sheffield United, where he picked up an ankle injury, but Norway have included him in their Euro 2008 qualifiers squad.

Benitez insists that Riise is simply not ready and doesn't believe it's fair they should have to go.

"John is not ready to play for Norway. The situation with John and Carra (Jamie Carragher) is the same. They are injured and I don't believe it's fair they should have to go with their national teams" said Benitez.

"The players understand that although the national team is important, the club, the
supporters and their team-mates are even more important at this moment.

"We have a lot of people with high expectations this season, who want us to achieve big things, but we played the most important game with some of our best players short of a month's preparation due to the World Cup.

"Now there are two qualifiers at the start of the season. It's crazy. This is not just a problem for Liverpool, but all the big clubs."

Man Utd look closer to Hargreaves deal

Barcelona player Mark van Bommel has left the club due to no guarantees he will play week in week out.

Bommel insisted that his chances of playing reguarly at Bayern Munich are so much greater as Michael Ballack has gone and Owen Hargreaves is close to leaving the club.

This spurs speculation that Bayern could be ready to sell Hargreaves to Man Utd and use Bommel as the replacement.

"I have left Barcelona because there were not enough guarantees that I would play every week," said van Bommel.

"With 24 top-class players, I know I can't expect that.

"But at Bayern Munich the chances of playing there are so much bigger, with Michael Ballack gone and Owen Hargreaves close to leaving the club."

Beckham to make Real deal

David Beckham is to renew his contract at Real Madrid.

The former England captain is set to sign on the dotted line, pledging his future to the Spanish side.

Many have criticised that they only want to extend Beckham's contract for marketing reasons but that was denied by new president Ramon Calderon.

"Obviously it's for sporting reasons," said Calderon.

"Marketing is important but at Real Madrid the most important thing is the sporting factor and the technical (coaching) department gave the green light to renew Beckham's deal."

Wenger insulted by Atletico bid

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is insulted by Atletico Madrid's offer of £8 million for Jose Antonio Reyes.

Reyes had been rumoured to be joining Real Madrid but they just don't seem interested in making a serious offer. Atletico obviously hold an interest in Reyes but Wenger considers their £8 million bid an insult.

It's no secret that Reyes wants to move to Spain, Wenger would be happy to let him leave aswell, for the right price that is. However, no club seem to be able to step up their offer so an unhappy Reyes looks very likely to be staying with Arsenal.

"I do not consider that an offer - I consider that an insult," said Wenger.

"I feel if a player wants to go and you get an agreement with the money you want, he goes - if you do not get that, he stays here.

"We will try to make him happy - but what can we do about the situation?

"When a player has a contract you need an agreement of three parties and you need an offer for a player and we have had no offer.

"I am not annoyed because I take care of the players who play and the players who do not play, what can I do?

"He wants to go Spain and we have no offer, what can I do about it?

"I can do nothing.

"It is like you wanting to marry Miss World and she does not want you. What can I do about it?

"I can try to help you, but if she does not want to marry you, what can I do?

"If you are not happy, what can I do about it? It is exactly the same.

"It is important that everybody is happy at the club - but there are other interests which are above that."

Hargreaves allowed to join Man Utd.... in 2010

Manchester United will be very disappointed to hear the news that Bayern Munich will not be letting Owen Hargreaves leave the club until 2010.

Thats the year when the defensive midfielders current contract runs out but Hargreaves would no doubt love for it to be sooner.

Man Utd have been after the England international who impressed in the World Cup but they have constantly been told that they should give up their efforts.

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge insist Hargreaves can swap sides, but not before 2010.

"He is free to swap sides - but not before July 1, 2010," said Rummenigge to Welt.

"This is the last word. If I say this, then that is what it is going to be.

"He can swap sides on July 1, 2010 - no sooner."

Liverpool vs West Ham - Your view!

So, Liverpool are set to take on West Ham in the Premiership. The game is live on PremPlus so tune in if you've subscribed!

Liverpool are the favourites for the clash but this is football and anything can happen.

Liverpool fans, what do you think will happen?, give us some commentary as the game goes on, what should Rafa change? who's playing awful? who's playing great?

West Ham fans, the same questions to you! (just post in the comments below, all comments are moderated before published)

Ronaldo calm over situation

Manchester United ace Cristiano Ronaldo is unaffected by the boo's that he's getting from away fans.

After the incident in the World Cup where it appeared that Ronaldo tried to get Rooney sent off, England supporters haven't been too pleased with the midfielder.

Now suffering consistent boo's from the away supporters, many thought it would affect the players game. However, Ronaldo insists he just concerntrates on the game.

"I know I'm going to get whistled at in every game I play but I am calm about it," said Ronaldo to the Sun.

"I have been through one away game now in The Premiership and I had to concentrate hard on the match.

"Of course I heard it all, I'm not deaf. I just blocked my ears and concentrated on the game."

Middlesbrough, Newcastle and Arsenal in Real running

Jonathan Woodgate has revealed that he shall be heading back to England on a loan move.

The Real Madrid defender has been told he needs to go out and play on loan before returning to Real Madrid for a regular starting place.

Middlesbrough, Newcastle and Arsenal are all rumoured to be keen on acquiring the defenders services and Woodgate admits he likes all the teams that want him.

"I am going away to play on loan for a year, in the next few hours I will know which team I will be playing for," said Woodgate.

"All the English that want me I like, and it will be a positive thing for me to return to England.

"I need to play games in order to prove I am strong and that I am totally recovered from injury, but here [Spain] it is hard to get continuity.

"It is better that I have one season playing in England and in one year I will return to Madrid and demonstrate that I am good football player."

Jol concedes Gerrard probably the best

Tottenham boss Martin Jol feels that Aaron Lennon still has a way to go before he can claim a regular England place.

Lennon has shown what he can do on the big stage but he's not quite the standard of Steven Gerrard who has played in that wide right role for England under Steve McClaren.

Lennon is sure pushing on that spot and Jol feels his man is getting closer and closer.

"Aaron is a winger but Gerrard is an all-round midfielder who does more than any
other wing player could do," said Jol to the Sun.

"Gerrard is probably the best player whether he's on the right, the left or as an attacking midfield player.

"I'm just happy when Lennon comes on and shows what he can do for England. And if he plays well against Everton, I suppose he'll be closer to the England team than ever."

When I joined Everton I said...

Everton striker Andrew Johnson is delighted to be back in the England side.

New boss Steve McClaren decided to call-up Johnson to the side, something that Sven Goran-Eriksson failed to do.

However, Johnson puts his call down to his Premiership move to Everton, a move he took because he thought it would be good for his international ambitions. Now the former Crystal Palace ace will have to prove himself in the Euro 2008 qualifiers if he wants to sustain a place in the squad.

"When I joined Everton I said that it would be good for my international ambitions and that's been proved right," said Johnson.

"Every player wants to represent his country and I am no different in that. I just hope that now I can actually play a part in the two games.

"I am happy with my form at Everton and I have to thank the lads who have made it very easy for me to settle in"

Tevez in English negotiations

Tevez has sensationally left Brazil and is close to signing for an English side.

The Corinthians revealed that Tevez has gone off on his own accord but the player himself has revealed that chief of MSI Kia Joorabchian has given him written permission.

Now Tevez feels he needs to quit the side for the sake of his family and there are negotiations over transfering him to an English side.

"I decided to leave Brazil because the club has promised many things to me and they didn't do them," said Tevez.

"I kept on playing but now I decided to leave Brazil because my family has suffered a lot.

"As Kia knows that the club didn't do any of the things they had promised he felt guilty and gave me an authorisation for staying in Buenos Aires until August 31 but it could even be for more time. I have a document signed by Kia where it says that I have his permission. I want to be some time calm with my family."

"I know that there are some negotiations for transferring me to a European team,
especially to an English one

"But I don't have any problem in playing for Corinthians. I would do it only for the supporters. If they want me to go back I will, but many things would have to change.
"In the meantime Boca offered me the chance to train with their team but I am doing it at home. I want to be fit for the match that we [Argentina] will play against Brazil next weekend in London."

Man Utd alerted to Tevez availability

Manchester Evening News are reporting that Man Utd have been alerted to Tevez' fall-out at Corinthians.

Since being stripped of his captaincy at the club under new coach Emerson Leao, Tevez has been outraged by the news. Also, Leao apparently commented that he doesn't like an Argentinean playing for the brazilian side, spurring speculation that Tevez would be available to move.

Man Utd have been long admirers of Tevez and this latest fall-out will no doubt spark Sir Alex Ferguson to make a bid for the striker.

Fergie still hasn't replaced Ruud van Nistelrooy who went to Real Madrid and this could be the perfect chance.

"I won't play at Corinthians while Leao is there." said Tevez.

Man Utd would be a great step for me

Manchester United target Owen Hargreaves insists he's given everything to Bayern Munich but now it's time to move on.

Having been at Bayern for the last nine years of his career, Hargreaves feels that signing for Man Utd would be a great step for him.

However, Bayern are not willing to let the defensive midfielder go and they don't have to as he is tied to a four year deal.

"I've given everything to Bayern Munich for the last nine years and I want to be treated with respect," said Hargreaves to Bild.

"I simply want it to be accepted that Manchester would be a great step for me.

"The manager doesn't want to let me go. That's his right. But he knows exactly what I want,

"It's simply a great challenge. I'm an England player, part of my family lives near Manchester. A lot of things come together."

Last chance for Tottenham to take Wigan defender

Wigan boss Paul Jewell has given an update on the current situation with defender Pascal Chimbonda.

Tottenham Hotspur Free £25 bet on totesport

A new contract is currently being negotiated but nothing has been agreed to yet. Jewell insists that if the player cannot agree a new deal with the club and a club comes in with the right money then he can leave.

Tottenham are known to have made bids for Chimbonda but it's just not the type of money that Wigan are looking for.

"We've been talking to his agent over the last couple of days about a possible new deal," said Jewell to Sky Sports News.

"I don't think anything's been agreed.

"Like anybody else, if he can't agree a deal and the right offer comes in for him he can go, but until that right offer comes in he's not going.

"Tottenham know the price for Pascal and I've spoken to them numerous times over the summer.

"If they want to pay the money reluctantly I would let him go. If they don't want to pay the money delightedly he would stay."

Henry - The body is not quite ready yet

Arsenal captain Thierry Henry feels that he is not fit enough yet.

It hadn't been the best pre-season for Henry because he hadn't had much time to recover after featuring in the World Cup final.

Now after only having 10 or 12 days of work he isn't finding it easier stepping back up to the top level.

Arsenal will be hoping Henry can rediscover his fitness very soon to help them out in their Premiership campaign.

"The body is not quite ready yet," said Henry.

"I would love it to be tomorrow - but I have to take it slowly and if I can go out there and help the team, I will.

"It is not that easy when you have only had 10 or 12 days of work and you go into the championship.

"I hope it (full fitness) can be as quickly as possible.

"Normally when you come back in pre-season you have played the likes of Barnet - and I struggle sometimes, even when playing Barnet.

"You have to prepare yourself for competitive games, and usually it takes a month or a month and a half to get going."

Tottenham - Maybe yes, maybe no

Tottenham boss Martin Jol has revealed that the club might make a last effort to sign Stuart Downing from Middlesbrough.

There has been much speculation linking the two together and it's thought that Tottenham have already had some bids rejected. However, they still appear to be keen as Jol fails to give a specific answer as to whether he is going to make a move or not.

"Maybe yes, maybe no," said Jol on whether Tottenham are going to make a move for Downing.

"There are a couple of days left and we will have to wait and see. I don't want to talk about others players.

We've been talking to Arsenal for the last three weeks

Chelsea are still keen on signing Arsenal defender Ashley Cole.

At one point it was thought that Chelsea had given up their interest in the left-back but it vice-chairman Peter Kenyon is still hopeful of making the signing.

Kenyon revealed that negotiations have been on-going with Arsenal and they've been talking throughout the last three weeks.

"That would be nice," said Kenyon to Sky Sports News when asked about landing
Arsenal's Ashley Cole.

"We've got seven days to do it or not. We've been talking to Arsenal for the last three weeks, very frequently, that's where we are, there's no more to add.

"Arsenal know our position, we'd like to think we can get it done, but if not we've got a great team and are very confident they can get us through.

"There's a commitment on both sides to try and get a deal done."

He is an Arsenal player and may very well remain an Arsenal player

Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein has revealed that Jose Antonio Reyes could well stay with the club.

Atletico Madrid are the latest club to have made an offer for the midfielder but Arsenal have rejected it.

Dein hints that Reyes would be welcome to stay at Arsenal but if a bid comes in that meets their demands then maybe they can then start talking.

"They have made an offer which has been rejected," said Dein to Sky Sports News.

"He is an Arsenal player and may very well remain an Arsenal player."

Even if Man Utd offer 30, 40 or 50million

Things are not looking good for Man Utd in regards to signing Bayern Munich defensive midfielder Owen Hargreaves.

Hoeness admits he finds it legitimate that Hargreaves would like to play for Man Utd but there is a contract and it's going to be stuck to.

It'll only be more frustration for Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson but it looks like he may have to give up on trying to make this signing.

"We found it legitimate (of Hargreaves) to say that he would like to play for Manchester," said Hoeness to kicker magazine.

"And I like this player. But there is a contract and that is why I said to him: `Owen, I cannot understand that you can't accept that. Even if Manchester offer 30, 40 or 50
million'."

Allardyce hard work pays off as star finally signs

Bolton have completed the signing of former Arsenal ace Nicolas Anelka.

After spending time with Fenerbahce, Anelka has found his way back to the Premiership and it's all thanks to patience from Bolton.

There had been rumours that Bolton were trying to make the signing and time was dragging on. But just when things looked like they wasn't going to happen, Anelka signs on the dotted line.

"Patience is a virtue, and I am pleased to say that all the waiting and hard work we've done behind the scenes has paid off," said Allardyce to the club's official website.

"Nicolas is a player with an amazing track record in The Premiership; he was born to score goals. His talent and experience will be a valuable asset for us.

"I'd also like to thank Eddie Davies and our Chairman Phil Gartside. It's an unprecedented amount of money for Bolton Wanderers to spend and fully underlines the club's ambition."

We know all about how good Chelsea's signings are

Barcelona ace Ronaldinho is not afraid of having to take on Chelsea in the Champions League group stages.

The Brazilian knows exactly how good Chelsea's new signings are and admits it can only improve them. However, Ronaldinho insists there is no such thing as an unstoppable team, much like Middlesbrough showed Chelsea on Wednesday night.

Mourinho was annoyed that Chelsea were put into the second pot whilst other teams such as Liverpool who had to play a qualifying game went into the first pot meaning they'd draw an easier group.

"We know all about how good Chelsea's signings are," said Ronaldinho.

"They have an impressive squad and their summer signings can't fail to improve them.

"But I believe we don't have to worry about the others. There is no such thing as an unstoppable team."

Tottenham are revealed to be trying to sign Ben Arfa from Lyon

Tottenham are revealed to be trying to sign Ben Arfa from Lyon.

Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas revealed that Tottenham are pressing hard to sign the teenage and it is nessary to discuss the possible transfer.

Arfa is only 19-years-old but is thought of highly. He previously stated that he wishes to move away from the club, only making Tottenham's chances of making the signing even greater.

"I saw the leaders of Tottenham are pressing hard to sign Hatem," said Aulas to the club's official website.

"It is necessary that we discuss it."

Mendes looks back on Thatcher tackle

After a horrific challenge from Man City defender Ben Thatcher, Pedro Mendes has spoken about the moment.

The Portsmouth ace was knocked down and out as his head crashed against the fence after Thatcher slung is arm into his face.

Mendes reveals he couldn't even remember anything from then until he got to the hospital, admitting that the moment was terrible.

Now the FA are set to take action and Mendes will speak over the incident if needed.

"The moment was terrible," said Mendes to the Daily Mail.

"After the incident my head crashed into the fence and I do not remember anything after that until I was in hospital.

"At first I had real fears about possible after-effects of the incident but the doctors told me they are optimistic I will be okay.

"I am a strong person and one day I hope to forget what happened.

"But this is the worst thing that ever happened to me in my career. It is the hardest to deal with.

"The tackle was totally unnecessary by Thatcher but I am not the referee and the decision from now on does not depend on me.

"As far as I am concerned this match is finished for me now and we move on.

"Now this subject is in the hands of Portsmouth and the FA. If I am called by them to speak then I will give my opinion."

Alonso admits pressure

Liverpool player Xabi Alonso admits there is a certain pressure when playing for the club.

The fans expect a lot from Liverpool, winning all the time, to be at the top of the table and to get to the last stages of cup competitions.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has made the team stronger this season by bringing in some new players and now the expectation is to compete with Chelsea at the top of the table.

"Always when you're playing for Liverpool you feel there is pressure because people say you have to win," said Alonso.

"It's expected we will be at the top and we have to cope with this. But that's okay, because we've made a few signings and we're improving.

"The main thing for us is to speak on the pitch. Now there are different expectations because people are talking about catching Chelsea, but we know it's still going to be very difficult. They have a very good team.

"We also have a good team, but it's a long race.

"Only one game has been played, but we're confident we will do the right things through the season to challenge."

Carrick talks about Man Utd start

Manchester United new-boy Michael Carrick has no regrets over getting stuck in and causing himself an injury.

Carrick admits he hasn't played a lot of football in pre-season, just two games and within the second he got injured.

Now the defensive midfielder has something to build on and will train for the next few days, but after that, it's up to boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

"I have not played a lot of football in pre-season," said Carrick to BBC Radio Manchester.

"I had one game, then got injured in the second.

"At least I have given myself something to build on now. I will train for the next few days, but after that, it depends on what the manager wants.

"The injury has improved pretty quickly.

"It has felt fine in the last few days, so we just thought 'Why not?'

"I wanted to get on the pitch sooner rather than later and it is good to get that first game out of the way."

West Ham joined by Bolton in player pursuit

Bolton have shown some late interest in West Ham target Steed Malbranque.

The Fulham player will not play for the club this season under the current circumstances. Malbranque has failed to agree a new contract with the club so he shall be free to leave at the end of the season.

Yesterday it was reported that West Ham are interested in acquiring the players services and today it appears that Bolton have joined the race.

Bolton chairman Phil Gartside revealed that Sam Allardyce had enquired about Malbranque.

"I know Sam's asked about him," said Gartside to Sky Sports News.

"He talked to Chris Coleman the other night when we were at Fulham.

"We always talk about people coming in and out, and I wouldn't rule anything out to be honest."

No Man Utd fear

Watford have a tough test against Man Utd on Saturday and Marlon King is hoping for big things.

King insists that sometimes big clubs don't like it when you are in their faces. Big name players are also all around United but the Watford striker is looking to match them, work hard and keep grafting.

Man Utd look quite unbeatable after their first two Premiership games but Watford stand every chance of ending that form.

"Sometimes big clubs don't like it when you are in their faces," said King.

"United have big-name players, but we will aim to match them, work hard and keep grafting.

"We believe in ourselves. We will make this place a fortress against anyone."

Man Utd ready to launch bid for Tevez - Rumour Mill

Manchester Evening News are reporting that Man Utd have been alerted to Tevez' fall-out at Corinthians.

Since being stripped of his captaincy at the club under new coach Emerson Leao, Tevez has been outraged by the news. Also, Leao apparently commented that he doesn't like an Argentinean playing for the brazilian side, spurring speculation that Tevez would be available to move.

Man Utd have been long admirers of Tevez and this latest fall-out will no doubt spark Sir Alex Ferguson to make a bid for the striker.

Fergie still hasn't replaced Ruud van Nistelrooy who went to Real Madrid and this could be the perfect chance.

"I won't play at Corinthians while Leao is there." said Tevez.

Hargreaves on Man Utd situation: I want to be treated with respect

Manchester United target Owen Hargreaves insists he's given everything to Bayern Munich but now it's time to move on.

Having been at Bayern for the last nine years of his career, Hargreaves feels that signing for Man Utd would be a great step for him.

However, Bayern are not willing to let the defensive midfielder go and they don't have to as he is tied to a four year deal.

"I've given everything to Bayern Munich for the last nine years and I want to be treated with respect," said Hargreaves to Bild.

"I simply want it to be accepted that Manchester would be a great step for me.

"The manager doesn't want to let me go. That's his right. But he knows exactly what I want,

"It's simply a great challenge. I'm an England player, part of my family lives near Manchester. A lot of things come together."

Chimbonda in talks - Can Tottenham swoop him quick?

Wigan boss Paul Jewell has given an update on the current situation with defender Pascal Chimbonda.

Tottenham Hotspur Free £25 bet on totesport

A new contract is currently being negotiated but nothing has been agreed to yet. Jewell insists that if the player cannot agree a new deal with the club and a club comes in with the right money then he can leave.

Tottenham are known to have made bids for Chimbonda but it's just not the type of money that Wigan are looking for.

"We've been talking to his agent over the last couple of days about a possible new deal," said Jewell to Sky Sports News.

"I don't think anything's been agreed.

"Like anybody else, if he can't agree a deal and the right offer comes in for him he can go, but until that right offer comes in he's not going.

"Tottenham know the price for Pascal and I've spoken to them numerous times over the summer.

"If they want to pay the money reluctantly I would let him go. If they don't want to pay the money delightedly he would stay."

Arsenal - Henry not ready

Arsenal captain Thierry Henry feels that he is not fit enough yet.

It hadn't been the best pre-season for Henry because he hadn't had much time to recover after featuring in the World Cup final.

Now after only having 10 or 12 days of work he isn't finding it easier stepping back up to the top level.

Arsenal will be hoping Henry can rediscover his fitness very soon to help them out in their Premiership campaign.

"The body is not quite ready yet," said Henry.

"I would love it to be tomorrow - but I have to take it slowly and if I can go out there and help the team, I will.

"It is not that easy when you have only had 10 or 12 days of work and you go into the championship.

"I hope it (full fitness) can be as quickly as possible.

"Normally when you come back in pre-season you have played the likes of Barnet - and I struggle sometimes, even when playing Barnet.

"You have to prepare yourself for competitive games, and usually it takes a month or a month and a half to get going."

Jol hints at Downing last effort

Tottenham boss Martin Jol has revealed that the club might make a last effort to sign Stuart Downing from Middlesbrough.

There has been much speculation linking the two together and it's thought that Tottenham have already had some bids rejected. However, they still appear to be keen as Jol fails to give a specific answer as to whether he is going to make a move or not.

"Maybe yes, maybe no," said Jol on whether Tottenham are going to make a move for Downing.

"There are a couple of days left and we will have to wait and see. I don't want to talk about others players.

Arsenal and Chelsea hoping to get big deal done

Chelsea are still keen on signing Arsenal defender Ashley Cole.

At one point it was thought that Chelsea had given up their interest in the left-back but it vice-chairman Peter Kenyon is still hopeful of making the signing.

Kenyon revealed that negotiations have been on-going with Arsenal and they've been talking throughout the last three weeks.

"That would be nice," said Kenyon to Sky Sports News when asked about landing
Arsenal's Ashley Cole.

"We've got seven days to do it or not. We've been talking to Arsenal for the last three weeks, very frequently, that's where we are, there's no more to add.

"Arsenal know our position, we'd like to think we can get it done, but if not we've got a great team and are very confident they can get us through.

"There's a commitment on both sides to try and get a deal done."

Madrid need to up their bid for Arsenal ace

Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein has revealed that Jose Antonio Reyes could well stay with the club.

Atletico Madrid are the latest club to have made an offer for the midfielder but Arsenal have rejected it.

Dein hints that Reyes would be welcome to stay at Arsenal but if a bid comes in that meets their demands then maybe they can then start talking.

"They have made an offer which has been rejected," said Dein to Sky Sports News.

"He is an Arsenal player and may very well remain an Arsenal player."

Man Utd will struggle to sign Bayern ace

Things are not looking good for Man Utd in regards to signing Bayern Munich defensive midfielder Owen Hargreaves.

Hoeness admits he finds it legitimate that Hargreaves would like to play for Man Utd but there is a contract and it's going to be stuck to.

It'll only be more frustration for Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson but it looks like he may have to give up on trying to make this signing.

"We found it legitimate (of Hargreaves) to say that he would like to play for Manchester," said Hoeness to kicker magazine.

"And I like this player. But there is a contract and that is why I said to him: `Owen, I cannot understand that you can't accept that. Even if Manchester offer 30, 40 or 50
million'."

Bolton complete signing of former Arsenal star

Bolton have completed the signing of former Arsenal ace Nicolas Anelka.

After spending time with Fenerbahce, Anelka has found his way back to the Premiership and it's all thanks to patience from Bolton.

There had been rumours that Bolton were trying to make the signing and time was dragging on. But just when things looked like they wasn't going to happen, Anelka signs on the dotted line.

"Patience is a virtue, and I am pleased to say that all the waiting and hard work we've done behind the scenes has paid off," said Allardyce to the club's official website.

"Nicolas is a player with an amazing track record in The Premiership; he was born to score goals. His talent and experience will be a valuable asset for us.

"I'd also like to thank Eddie Davies and our Chairman Phil Gartside. It's an unprecedented amount of money for Bolton Wanderers to spend and fully underlines the club's ambition."

Tottenham make Lyon move

Tottenham are revealed to be trying to sign Ben Arfa from Lyon.

Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas revealed that Tottenham are pressing hard to sign the teenage and it is nessary to discuss the possible transfer.

Arfa is only 19-years-old but is thought of highly. He previously stated that he wishes to move away from the club, only making Tottenham's chances of making the signing even greater.

"I saw the leaders of Tottenham are pressing hard to sign Hatem," said Aulas to the club's official website.

"It is necessary that we discuss it."

No Chelsea worries for Ronaldinho

Barcelona ace Ronaldinho is not afraid of having to take on Chelsea in the Champions League group stages.

The Brazilian knows exactly how good Chelsea's new signings are and admits it can only improve them. However, Ronaldinho insists there is no such thing as an unstoppable team, much like Middlesbrough showed Chelsea on Wednesday night.

Mourinho was annoyed that Chelsea were put into the second pot whilst other teams such as Liverpool who had to play a qualifying game went into the first pot meaning they'd draw an easier group.

"We know all about how good Chelsea's signings are," said Ronaldinho.

"They have an impressive squad and their summer signings can't fail to improve them.

"But I believe we don't have to worry about the others. There is no such thing as an unstoppable team."

Mendes: The moment was terrible

After a horrific challenge from Man City defender Ben Thatcher, Pedro Mendes has spoken about the moment.

The Portsmouth ace was knocked down and out as his head crashed against the fence after Thatcher slung is arm into his face.

Mendes reveals he couldn't even remember anything from then until he got to the hospital, admitting that the moment was terrible.

Now the FA are set to take action and Mendes will speak over the incident if needed.

"The moment was terrible," said Mendes to the Daily Mail.

"After the incident my head crashed into the fence and I do not remember anything after that until I was in hospital.

"At first I had real fears about possible after-effects of the incident but the doctors told me they are optimistic I will be okay.

"I am a strong person and one day I hope to forget what happened.

"But this is the worst thing that ever happened to me in my career. It is the hardest to deal with.

"The tackle was totally unnecessary by Thatcher but I am not the referee and the decision from now on does not depend on me.

"As far as I am concerned this match is finished for me now and we move on.

"Now this subject is in the hands of Portsmouth and the FA. If I am called by them to speak then I will give my opinion."

Alonso admits Liverpool pressure

Liverpool player Xabi Alonso admits there is a certain pressure when playing for the club.

The fans expect a lot from Liverpool, winning all the time, to be at the top of the table and to get to the last stages of cup competitions.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has made the team stronger this season by bringing in some new players and now the expectation is to compete with Chelsea at the top of the table.

"Always when you're playing for Liverpool you feel there is pressure because people say you have to win," said Alonso.

"It's expected we will be at the top and we have to cope with this. But that's okay, because we've made a few signings and we're improving.

"The main thing for us is to speak on the pitch. Now there are different expectations because people are talking about catching Chelsea, but we know it's still going to be very difficult. They have a very good team.

"We also have a good team, but it's a long race.

"Only one game has been played, but we're confident we will do the right things through the season to challenge."