Mario Balotelli: Man City striker takes club to tribunal

Monday, December 17, 2012

Italian striker Mario Balotelli will face Manchester City at a Premier League tribunal in London on Wednesday.  

Balotelli is fighting City's decision to fine him two weeks' wages for his poor disciplinary record last season. The 22-year-old missed 11 games domestically and in Europe last season because of suspensions. Balotelli appealed against the decision but an independent panel of City's board upheld the penalty. The case will now be heard by a three-man panel. The striker is expected to appear in person, along with his Italian lawyer and a representative from the Professional Footballers' Association, while City will bring their legal team. A two-week fine is the maximum penalty stipulated in standard player contracts and, although City refused to comment on the case, they are privately confident of winning. It is unusual for internal disputes between clubs and their players to go to a Premier League tribunal.

 The PFA has advised the player throughout and its chief executive, Gordon Taylor, told BBC Sport: "We try to avoid situations like this wherever possible, but the player and club have not been able to resolve this situation." City began the disciplinary process after Balotelli was sent off against Arsenal in April 2012. In all, he received nine yellow cards and three reds - one of them retrospective - during the season. Balotelli was taken off early in the second half of City's 3-2 defeat by Manchester United on 9 December, and then left out of their squad altogether for the 3-1 win at Newcastle on Saturday. After the match, City manager Roberto Mancini said: "At this moment, Mario is not in good form and for this reason he is at home. It is only for this reason. To get back into the team he needs to work in training and when he plays, he needs to play well."















17 December 2012 Last updated at 11:17
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20756755

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Bolton Wanderers confirm Dougie Freedman as new manager

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Bolton Wanderers have confirmed Dougie Freedman as their new manager. 

Crystal Palace announced the departure of the 38-year-old, who replaces Owen Coyle as Wanderers boss, on Tuesday. Freedman, who was in charge of Palace for 21 months, said: "I am delighted to join Bolton. The club is geared up to getting back into the Premier League. "There is an impressive setup and structure in place, and a first team squad of undoubted quality. I'm excited about the challenge ahead of us." Bolton chairman Phil Gartside added: "Dougie is young and ambitious. When we met, his enthusiasm and knowledge of the game was evident. "He has a real drive and passion, and knows what we want to achieve and how we want to go about it. I am looking forward to working with Dougie to secure that." Freedman, a former Palace and Scotland striker, leaves the Eagles fourth in the Championship - 12 places and six points above Bolton. Despite Freedman's arrival appearing imminent, academy chief Jimmy Phillips revealed after Tuesday's 2-2 draw against Wolves that he had been asked to prepare the first team for their trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday. Bolton made an approach to speak to Freedman on Sunday, which was rejected by Palace, but the London club later gave Wanderers permission to talk to their manager. The Eagles released a statement confirming his exit from Selhurst Park, although Bolton would not officially announce his appointment.









25 October 2012 Last updated at 11:35
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20081696

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John Terry 'upbeat' as FA hearing goes into a third day

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

John Terry is "positive and upbeat" as the Football Association hearing into accusations he used racist language towards QPR defender Anton Ferdinand enters a third day. 

Chelsea assistant boss Eddie Newton made the assessment of Terry's mental state after the defender led his side a League Cup win over Wolves on Tuesday. "He's been fine, dealing with the situation at hand," Newton said after the 6-0 victory. "He's coming in and doing what he has to do at the club. He's been very positive and upbeat." Centre-back Terry, 31, played in the win over Championship side Wolves despite missing training to attend the hearing at Wembley Stadium on both Monday and Tuesday. He arrived there again at 08:00 BST on Wednesday to continue his defence. BBC Sport's Richard Conway says former England manager Fabio Capello and his assistant Franco Baldini have provided statements to the FA's independent regulatory commission at the request of Terry's lawyers, who were keen for the pair to attend the hearing. "But it is unlikely they will be seen at Wembley," Conway said. Among other things, the statements are understood by BBC Sport to determine whether it is usual for a player found not guilty in a criminal trial to then have to answer an FA charge relating to the same incident. Reports suggest Terry's lawyers want the FA charge against the former England captain dismissed because he was found not guilty of a racially aggravated public order offence at Westminster Magistrates' Court in July. Two weeks after being cleared, the FA charged Terry with using "abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour" towards Ferdinand during October's Premier League game at Loftus Road. Just hours before hearing was due to begin, Terry announced his retirement from international duty, claiming the FA hearing had made his position with the national team "untenable".














 26 September 2012 Last updated at 13:05
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19723020

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Bolton loanee Jay Spearing "still has Liverpool future"

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Jay Spearing believes he still has a future at Liverpool, despite joining relegated Bolton on a season-long loan. 

 The 23-year-old midfielder had not featured in the Premier League under new Reds boss Brendan Rodgers before moving to the Reebok Stadium on Friday. Spearing told BBC Radio Manchester: "We had a really good chat about how we thought the season was going to go. "We both decided that it would be good for me to go out, get some experience and play some football." When asked if he felt he could make an impact on his return to Anfield, Spearing added: "I don't see why not, but at the moment I'm with Bolton. "I want to try and produce for Bolton and get us back into the Premier League. It's a massive club with a massive support and I really think we can do it." Spearing made his debut in a 3-1 defeat at Hull City on Saturday, a result that rounded off an indifferent start to the Championship season for Wanderers. "We started off really well and, when we got the ball down and played, I thought we were the better team," he continued. "It was just individual errors that caused us problems. We have to stop that straight away, particularly if we want to be up near the top. "Looking back, I don't think they massively put us under a lot of pressure. It was just our own mistakes."











4 September 2012 Last updated at 09:23
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19467410

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Tottenham defender Ledley King retires from playing

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Tottenham defender Ledley King has retired from professional football and will take on an ambassadorial role at the club. 

 The former England defender, 31, has struggled with injuries for a number of years and has been unable to train on a daily basis. "Sadly my injuries and inability to train have finally brought an end to my career," King told Tottenham's website. "I'm pleased that I can continue to work within the club." King joined Spurs as a trainee at the age of 16. After his debut in 1999, he went on to make 264 league appearances for the club, winning the Carling Cup in 2008, and was club captain. The centre-back also represented England 21 times and was in the 2010 World Cup squad. His last appearance for his country came against the United States in South Africa two years ago. "I have been here since I was a boy," added King. "I have always considered it my club and have always found it hard to imagine wearing the shirt of another team. "I would like to say thank you to everyone at the club and to the fans.

"I have missed a lot of football over the years, but the Spurs fans have always been patient and incredibly supportive with me during difficult periods." Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy described King as a "wonderful player, captain and ambassador". "It has been well documented how he has battled against injury over the years," said Levy. "It is testament to the character of the man how he managed to sustain such high standards of performance on the pitch, while providing such fine leadership." King's last Premier League appearance for Tottenham came in a 1-0 defeat at QPR on 21 April.













19 July 2012 Last updated at 11:58
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18902734

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Rangers: Davis, McGregor, Lafferty and Ness eye exit

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Four more players - captain Steven Davis, Allan McGregor, Kyle Lafferty and Jamie Ness - have lodged objections to their transfer to a "newco" Rangers. 

 The consortium led by Charles Green believe the players' contracts should transfer from the old, soon-to-be liquidated Rangers. Last week, Steven Naismith, Steven Whittaker, Sone Aluko and Rhys McCabe claimed to be free agents. And it led chief executive Green to threaten legal action. Green, whose consortium bought Rangers' assets after creditors rejected a plan to take the old company out of administration, says he will use the courts to block the players' departure and seek damages. Scotland defender Lee Wallace followed that by announcing that he intends to remain with Rangers for the remainder of his five-year contract. But, hours later, those eyeing an exit were joined by midfielder Davis, Northern Ireland team-mate Lafferty, Scotland goalkeeper Allan McGregor and Under-21 international midfielder Ness. A statement from lawyer Margaret Gribbon of Bridge Litigation read: "Allan McGregor, Steven Davis, Jamie Ness and Kyle Lafferty have instructed PFA lawyers Bridge Litigation UK to object to their transfer to the Rangers' newco." Green's newco Rangers has submitted an application to be granted entry into the Scottish Premier League and will face a vote by all 12 top-flight clubs on 4 July. However, enough clubs have already stated they will be voting against Rangers' application to leave the new club facing the prospect of having to apply for entry to the Scottish Football League. Raith Rovers and Falkirk have gone public with their opposition to a new Rangers being admitted to Division One instead of starting life two rungs below. "This has been an extremely difficult period for all the players and, in the end, their decisions were influenced largely by footballing considerations," added Ms Gribbon. "SPL football appears highly unlikely and even First Division football cannot be guaranteed in light of comments made today by two First Division clubs. "The players' commitment and loyalty to oldco Rangers cannot be questioned; they voluntarily took significant wage cuts in a genuine act of solidarity, which ensured that none of the playing squad or club staff would lose their jobs. "But for their contribution, it's likely that the club would not have survived until the end of the season. "As professional footballers, the players' careers are relatively short-lived and they are entitled to exercise basic employment rights the law affords to all employees in this country under the TUPE Regulations.

 "I now expect the SFA and Fifa to interpret their Rules and Regulations in accordance with the TUPE legislation so that the players' registrations can be released without delay." Rangers players are due to report for pre-season training on Thursday, the same day as staff who have agreed to transfer their contracts are due to receive their first pay packets from the Sevco consortium. However, they have been forced to change their pre-season plans, with newly promoted Southampton announcing that Anderlecht will replace Rangers in this year's Markus Liebherr Memorial Cup, which will also feature Arsenal, because of question marks about the strength of the Glasgow club's squad. Meanwhile, the Scottish Football Association is awaiting information from Green to support his newco club's application for membership of the governing body. Green submitted a letter of application on Friday, but the SFA needs formal documents relating to his consortium, requirements for fit and proper officials, and plans for his newco Rangers. It was agreed that Green, whose group purchased the business and assets of Rangers for £5.5m, would provide the details before this weekend. The transfer of the SFA membership from soon-to-be-liquidated Rangers to Green's newco could take place at the same time as a decision is made over which league the club will play in. The club were forced into administration in February over an unpaid tax bill and failure to secure a company voluntary arrangement in order to exit the process consigned the club to liquidation.












 26 June 2012 Last updated at 20:56
 http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18603617

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Harry Redknapp leaves Tottenham Hotspur manager's job

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

  Veteran manager Redknapp, who was heavily linked with the England job before the Football Association opted for Roy Hodgson, had denied speculation that he had resigned on Tuesday. The 65-year-old had a year left on his contract but reportedly failed to agree a new deal with chairman Daniel Levy. Everton manager David Moyes is a contender for the job but the Toffees have received no approach for the Scot. "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Spurs and am proud of my achievements," Redknapp said on the Spurs website . "I have had a fantastic four years with the club, at times the football has been breathtaking. I am sad to be leaving but wish to thank the players, staff and fans for their terrific support during my time there." Levy thanked the former Spurs boss on the club's official statement. He said: "This is not a decision the board and I have taken lightly. Harry arrived at the club at a time when his experience and approach was exactly what was needed. "This decision in no way detracts from the excellent work Harry has done during his time with the Club and I should like to thank him for his achievements and contribution. Harry will always be welcome at the Lane." Redknapp left Portsmouth for Tottenham, who were four points adrift at the bottom of the Premier League, in October 2008. He guided Spurs to a first-ever Champions League campaign in 2010. After finishing fourth last season, Tottenham only missed out on a repeat of that when Chelsea won the Champions League. Redknapp was immediately installed as the favourite to replace Fabio Capello when the Italian resigned from the England job in February, only for the FA to move for Hodgson. He admitted last week that he would have left Tottenham if he had been offered the national job. When Capello left his post as England boss on 8 February, Spurs were third in the league, 10 points clear of a faltering Arsenal but they eventually finished a point behind the Gunners. Levy is understood to have been left disappointed by Spurs' end-of-season slump. Redknapp consistently rejected suggestions that Tottenham were affected by the speculation linking him with England. Last week he urged Spurs to resolve his future, insisting that the uncertainty could cause problems in the Tottenham dressing room. He said:

"The simple situation is I've got a year left on my contract. It's up to Tottenham whether they want to extend that contract or not. "If they don't extend it and I go into my last year, it's not an easy one when players know you've only got a year left. "It's up to Tottenham. If they think I'm OK and I've done a decent job and deserve an extension, they'll give it to me." But having been the longest-serving Tottenham manager since Terry Venables, whose reign ended in 1991, he has now left the club. Redknapp spent most of his playing career with West Ham and Bournemouth and managed both clubs before taking charge of Portsmouth in 2002. He guided the Fratton Park club into the Premier League within 14 months as First Division champions. Redknapp left for Pompey's bitter South Coast rivals Southampton in 2004 but returned to Fratton Park in December 2005. Then, after dramatically saving Pompey from relegation with a brilliant end-of-season run, Redknapp steered them to a best-ever Premier League finish of ninth in 2006-07. They improved on that by a place in 2007-08, and won the FA Cup against Cardiff, qualifying for their first journey into Uefa Cup football. Just months later he replaced Juande Ramos at struggling Tottenham, eventually finishing eighth in the table and qualifying for the Champions League by finishing fourth the following season. Spurs were eventually beaten in the quarter-finals by Real Madrid and could only finish fifth in the Premier League. At the turn of the year they were considered potential title challengers but a run of one victory in nine matches contributed to them slipping to fourth and losing out to Chelsea for the final Champions League place.











 13 June 2012 Last updated at 22:34 GMT
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18436663

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Euro 2012: Scott Parker wants to make up for lost time

Thursday, June 7, 2012

England midfielder Scott Parker is determined to seize his chance as he prepares for his first major tournament at the age of 31.

 Since moving to Tottenham from West Ham in August 2011 for £5m, Parker has impressed and was named England Player of the Year in February. "It's a massive tournament for me personally," he told BBC Radio 5 live. "At 31 it's my first tournament so it's one I have been looking forward to for a long time and I am over the moon." He added: "You always watch the games and wish you could be there or playing a part in it but for one reason or another it wasn't meant to be. "I suppose now I am here I need to try to soak up every bit of it and do the best I can when I'm called upon." Since moving to Tottenham from West Ham in August 2011 for £5m, Parker has impressed and was named England Player of the Year in February.

"It's a massive tournament for me personally," he told BBC Radio 5 live. "At 31 it's my first tournament so it's one I have been looking forward to for a long time and I am over the moon." He added: "You always watch the games and wish you could be there or playing a part in it but for one reason or another it wasn't meant to be. "I suppose now I am here I need to try to soak up every bit of it and do the best I can when I'm called upon." The former Charlton, Norwich, Chelsea and Newcastle central midfielder has started the first two matches of manager Roy Hodgson's reign, against Norway and Belgium, alongside captain Steven Gerrard. The duo may have to be at their best if England are to make an impact in Poland and Ukraine. "If you switch off for one second at the level we are at, then it normally ends up in the back of your net," added Parker at a civic reception, attended by the players in Krakow. "Midfield is obviously a crucial part of a team and a game. You obviously need to win the battles in midfield and from there give yourselves a platform to go and attack and obviously be solid in defence. "Under this manager we are going to have a very organised team, a team which is tactically aware and if you have to grind out results then that is how it has to be. "But we have also got plenty of players in this squad who can go the other way and score some fabulous goals."



















 7 June 2012 Last updated at 19:00
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18359712

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Euro 2012: Gary Cahill ruled out but Rio Ferdinand overlooked

Monday, June 4, 2012

 

 Roy Hodgson has been accused of disrespecting Rio Ferdinand after overlooking the defender for Euro 2012, despite an injury to Gary Cahill. 

Cahill, 26, was ruled out with a double fracture of his jaw after colliding with goalkeeper Joe Hart during the friendly win over Belgium on Saturday. Liverpool's Martin Kelly has been called up as his replacement. "It's a lack of respect. He wants to play," Ferdinand's representative Jamie Moralee told BBC Sport. "Rio's very disappointed. He thought he had done enough. It's very difficult to accept. "This is a player with 81 caps for his country. I don't know anyone who understands it. It's not been handled in the right way." Meanwhile, John Terry has been given the all-clear after a scan on a hamstring injury. Liverpool full-back Kelly, 22, who made his international debut as a substitute against Norway last weekend, was on the stand-by list. The call-up is subject to Uefa approval. Former captain Ferdinand, 33, has won 81 caps for his country but was left out of Hodgson's initial squad. England coach Hodgson said the decision was for "footballing reasons" and not as Terry is due to stand trial in July over a charge he racially abused Ferdinand's brother Anton. Terry denies the charge. The Manchester United defender has been hampered by back problems in recent years and club manager Sir Alex Ferguson said in May: "You play something like a game every four days. Rio Ferdinand couldn't do that." However Ferdinand made 30 Premier League appearances last season, the most times he has featured in a campaign since 2007-08. England manager Roy Hodgson had already lost goalkeeper John Ruddy (fractured finger) as well as midfielders Gareth Barry (abdomen) and Frank Lampard (thigh) from his original 23-man squad. Cahill looked in line to start alongside Chelsea team-mate Terry against France in England's Euro 2012 opener in Donetsk on 11 June, but his absence now opens the door for either Manchester City's Joleon Lescott or Everton's Phil Jagielka. Manchester United's Phil Jones is the only other recognised central defender - though he may be needed in midfield following the injuries to Lampard and Barry. Cahill collided with Hart after a push from Belgium winger Dries Mertens in the 17th minute at Wembley. An FA statement said: "Cahill has two fractures of his jaw, one either side. "The England medical team have been in close contact overnight with Cahill's club doctors who will treat him moving forward." Hodgson said after the game: "I wasn't too happy about the challenge. The referee gave him a yellow card, which he deserved." PSV winger Mertens has apologised on his Twitter page. He said: "I sincerely apologise for the harm I've cost to Cahill. When in the heat of the moment, you often don't think about the consequences. "My thoughts go out to him and I hope he recovers well." Kelly's call-up means that there are now six Liverpool players in the 23-man squad travelling to Ukraine and Poland - more than from any other club. Fifa have confirmed that Mertens will not face restrospective action as the incident was seen by the referee at the time. 

 4 June 2012 Last updated at 08:0

 http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18311737

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Liverpool renew interest in Swansea's Brendan Rodgers

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Liverpool have renewed attempts to discuss their vacant managerial post with Swansea's Brendan Rodgers.

 

Owner John W Henry arrived on Merseyside on Tuesday to personally oversee the recruitment process. Having spoken to Wigan manager Roberto Martinez, Liverpool have gone back to Rodgers to discuss the position. Rodgers, 39, met Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins on Tuesday morning but the Welsh club insist the manager's future was not discussed. Martinez has yet to hear back from Liverpool, but Henry is understood to have been impressed with him when the pair met in Miami last week and was keen to speak to him a second time. Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has given Liverpool until Thursday to decide whether they will offer the Spaniard a contract. Swans boss Rodgers is open to negotiations having been assured he is a genuine contender, though no deal has yet been agreed at this stage. Liverpool have, however, spoken with representatives of Rodgers, to impress on the Northern Irishman just how highly they rate him. Rodgers, who secured the £7m record signing of Gylfi Sigurdsson earlier this week, will not walk away from Swansea lightly. It is understood Swansea would be expecting £5m in compensation if Rodgers was to depart for Liverpool. His commitment to the club is genuine but having turned Liverpool down 10 days ago because he feared becoming involved in a race with multiple candidates, he is now understood to be taking Liverpool's interest more seriously. The Northern Irishman's meeting with Swansea on Tuesday comes after he returned from a trip to the United States, where he watched Wales lose 2-0 against Mexico in New Jersey on Sunday. A day earlier, Swansea said they had not received any further contact from Liverpool, who are looking for a new manager after sacking Kenny Dalglish at the end of the season.

"We would like to confirm that there has been no contact from Liverpool and nothing has changed since our previous statement on the issue," said Swansea in a statement on their official website on Monday. Rodgers signed a new three-and-a-half-year contract with Swansea in February. It is understood that one of the clauses in that deal was a guarantee the Swans would recieve a compensation payment of between £4m and £5m should Rodgers leave for another club. Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez held talks with Liverpool's American owners in Miami last Thursday - although the suggestion from his chairman Dave Whelan that he had been offered a deal at Anfield appears to have been premature. Whelan revealed that further discussions would be held on Tuesday as Liverpool continue to examine all of their options as they move to replace sacked Kenny Dalglish. The Wigan chairman admits he would be happier if Rodgers was installed at the expense of Martinez and criticised Liverpool's owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG) for their handling of the recruitment process. "If it is true that Liverpool want to speak with Brendan Rodgers it proves they don't know who they want as manager," Whelan told ESPN. "I hope they choose Brendan Rodgers. "Roberto has told me he is speaking with Liverpool again on Tuesday. "I have now made it clear that I want this sorted out by Thursday at the latest as we have to get on preparing for next season." Former Ajax, Barcelona and Holland coach Louis van Gaal has emerged as a leading contender to fulfil a sporting director role at Liverpool as the club reshapes its management structure.











29 May 2012 Last updated at 19:58
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18235961

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Roberto Martinez given Liverpool deadline by Wigan

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan is planning to set a deadline for Roberto Martinez to decide whether he will stay as boss.

 

Martinez has been given permission to speak with Liverpool about the vacant managerial position at Anfield. The Spaniard has also been linked with taking over at Aston Villa, the club he turned down last year. "Roberto will be in Barbados until next Tuesday, and I will then set a seven-day deadline by which time I will expect a decision," said Whelan. "I appreciate everyone is in limbo at the moment and there will come a time soon when we'll need an answer one way or the other. "It is dragging on a bit but I only care about one thing - that is the future of Wigan Athletic. Nothing else matters. "It's important we sort this out properly, one way or the other, so we can move forward in preparation for the new season." Liverpool are yet to formally begin the interview process for their managerial vacancy, created when Kenny Dalglish was sacked on 16 May. Whelan remains hopeful that Martinez will stay with the Latics, adding in the Wigan Evening Post: "I must stress that I am by no means resigned to losing Roberto to Liverpool or any other club. "It is not a foregone conclusion. Not at all. Hand on heart, I still believe Roberto will be here next season."









24 May 2012 Last updated at 12:43
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18191006

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Jose Mourinho signs new four-year deal as Real Madrid manager

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Jose Mourinho has signed a new four-year contract to remain as manager of Real Madrid until 2016.

The Portuguese, 49, took over at Real in 2010 and guided his team to success in the Copa del Rey in his first campaign in charge. He led Real to their first title in four years this season. Mourinho took the Premier League twice with Chelsea - and has won the Portuguese title with Porto and Italian Serie A with Inter Milan.







 22 May 2012 Last updated at 13:49
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18163343

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Michael Owen: Manchester United have not offered him a new deal

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Manchester United have confirmed that striker Michael Owen will not be offered a new contract and will be leaving the club.  

 The 32-year-old former England forward joined the Old Trafford club in July 2009 but made just 52 appearances. "The manager informed me after our testimonial match on Tuesday that the club would not be offering me a new contract," said Owen on Twitter. "I have loved every minute I have spent at such a fantastic club." Owen, who also had spells with Liverpool, Real Madrid and Newcastle, added: "I would like to thank the players, staff and fans for their support and wish them well for the future. "I now plan to have a short holiday during which I will contemplate my next move." Owen's last game in a United shirt came in Belfast on Tuesday in a testimonial for former goalkeeper Harry Gregg. His time at Old Trafford was blighted by injuries and he managed just four league and cup appearances this season with his final one coming in United's 2-0 win over Otelul Galati during the Champions League group stages in November when he sustained a thigh injury.

 Owen's most memorable goal for Manchester United came at Old Trafford back in September 2009. The striker came off the bench to score a dramatic injury-time winner against Manchester City and win the derby 4-3. He scored another vital goal in the League Cup final against Aston Villa back in 2010. However his celebrations were again cut short by injury and was replaced shortly after. Owen's last appearance for England was back in 2008, but his goal record at international level is outstanding. The striker scored 40 goals in 89 appearances, BBC Sport's Gary Lineker tweeted : "A world-class goalscorer who, but for injury, would have broken many records." Owen started his career as a teenager at Liverpool, before making a move to Spain and Real Madrid in 2004. Having spent just one season in La Liga, the striker moved back to the Premier League where he joined Newcastle United, scoring 30 goals in 74 appearances. Always an admirer of the prolific striker, Sir Alex Ferguson took a risk in signing him for Manchester United on a free transfer in 2009. The Scot said: "It is a pleasure to have had Michael at Manchester United. "Michael is a consummate professional and was an influential figure in our dressing room. Unfortunately he had no luck with his injury this season. "Michael's record of goals per game is exceptional and we wish him all the best for the future."













 17 May 2012 Last updated at 12:41
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18101799

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Alex McLeish poised to leave Aston Villa

Monday, May 14, 2012

The 53-year-old former Scotland manager said his farewell to the Villa players on Monday morning. Villa have endured a poor Premier League campaign, finishing just above the relegation zone after winning only four of 19 games at home. The club have yet to make an official announcement about McLeish, who left close rivals Birmingham City to join Villa in June last year. McLeish faced widespread protests from Villa supporters after leaving relegated Birmingham to take over from Gerard Houllier 11 months ago . Villa, who won only seven league matches all season, effectively secured their Premier League status with a 1-1 draw against Tottenham in the penultimate game of the season.








14 May 2012 Last updated at 12:29
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18056282

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Yaya Toure wants Man City to become world's top club

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Yaya Toure has told BBC Sport that he wants to help Manchester City become the biggest club in the world. 

The midfielder has been a key figure for City, who attempt to clinch the Premier League title this weekend. He told World Focus: "That's why I came here, to help the team... to help the club go forward and make it bigger than any club in the world." City host QPR on Sunday and will become champions if they match Manchester United's result at Sunderland. Asked whether he was feeling the pressure, Toure, who was signed from Barcelona for a reported £24m in July 2010, said: "No, because I have a lot of experience. I have already won some important trophies." Toure, a member of the Barcelona squad that won all six domestic and international titles they contested in 2009, has been an increasingly influential figure for Roberto Mancini's side this season. 

The Ivory Coast international, 28, scored both goals in a 2-0 win at Newcastle on Sunday and also helped City beat neighbours United 1-0 on 30 April. Toure, who also scored in City's FA Cup semi-final and final victories last season, believes his know-how was one of the main reasons City agreed to pay such a big fee to sign him from Barcelona on a five-year deal. "I think they made the right choice," said Toure, who once had a trial with Arsenal. "I wanted to come to the club to make a story and my decision was to come to City. "Of course, some people make some speculation about other things, but, for me, when you are a football player, you always want to go where you can be loved and be the best player. "At Barcelona, I was a good player but at City I am an important player for the team." City failed to reach the latter stages of the Champions League this season, but Toure says a first top-flight title since 1968 would be an important step on the road to becoming the biggest club in the world. "This Sunday coming, we have to deliver," he said. "It's very important." 

10 May 2012 Last updated at 12:37 

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18006889

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Blackburn Rovers' deputy CEO Paul Hunt sacked after leak

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Blackburn's deputy chief executive Paul Hunt has been sacked after calling for Steve Kean's dismissal as manager.

 

According to a leaked letter seen by the Sporting Intelligence website, Hunt told the club's owners in December that it was time for the 44-year-old Kean to leave Ewood Park. Hunt expressed the view that Kean's tenure "isn't working" and "is ready to go". Rovers have made no comment but Kean is set to speak to the media on Wednesday. Hunt's departure comes days after the club were relegated from the Premier League following a 1-0 home defeat by Wigan. Kean's reign has been a troubled one, with many Blackburn fans unhappy with the way he has managed the team. The Scot took over as manager in December 2010 following the sacking of Sam Allardyce. Venky's, Rovers' Indian owners, have also come in for heavy criticism for their running of the Lancashire club.

Hunt's letter indicates he had serious concerns about the Premier League side's direction before Christmas. "He [Kean] has lost the crowd and as a result of this evening's game [2-1 loss to Bolton on 20 December] has lost the dressing room as well - the players no longer want to play for him," wrote Hunt. "It is a shame and disappointing but we must act now to save the club. The board should be asked their opinion on who should be the new manager." Hunt insisted he had the best interests of the club at heart and also detailed worries about finances. "I have been your senior officer at the club for six months now and I feel that I must now write to you to ask you to make some significant changes to save the club, perhaps from relegation but also perhaps from administration," said Hunt. "We are losing fans/customers at an alarming rate. I am very concerned that fans are voting with their feet and not attending, not purchasing and not engaging with the club." Blackburn play their final league game of the season against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.












9 May 2012 Last updated at 11:43
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18005433

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Blackburn face player exodus after relegation - Kevin Gallacher

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Blackburn could face an exodus of players after relegation from the Premier League, according to their former striker Kevin Gallacher.

 

And Gallacher believes players such as striker Junior Hoilett will leave "Junior is not holding off signing a contract for no reason. He wants to see what the future holds and now we know the club's future is in the Championship," said Gallacher. "No disrespect to Junior but I think he's gone and I am sure he will attract offers from the Premier League and also abroad because he is a real talent. "You then worry that people like Paul Robinson may go as well. He has been a fantastic goalkeeper for Blackburn and you wonder whether another Premier League club will come in for someone of that experience and calibre. "[Defender] Gael Givet has been a stalwart but the concern for Blackburn fans will be that these players will want to play at the highest level rather than drop down a division with Rovers.

There may be others who feel the same." During the defeat by Wigan there was sustained criticism from supporters of Indian owners Venky's and manager Steve Kean, while a chicken was released onto the pitch in an apparent protest against the club's owners, a company that specialises in meat processing. Gallacher said Rovers have been in serious trouble for some time and believes the sale of key figures earlier this season proved costly. "I'm afraid relegation has had a feeling of inevitability about it for a while," added the Scot, who was part of the Blackburn squad which won the Premier League title in 1995. "They lost their better experienced players such as Ryan Nelsen and Chris Samba, good players and big influences in the dressing room. "When you do that and don't replace them then you can end up in trouble and sadly for Blackburn it has ended up with relegation."











By Phil McNulty Chief football writer, BBC Sport
8 May 2012 Last updated at 12:49
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17992153

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America-based businessman Miller nears takeover at Rangers

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Rangers' administrators have granted Bill Miller preferred bidder status and hope the club will be in his hands later this month.

 

The America-based businessman announced plans to form an "incubator" company that would see the assets of Rangers transferred to a new company. Miller's initial bid was dependent on the Scottish football authorities not imposing further sanctions on the club. But Duff & Phelps describe the offer as "unconditional". "Bill Miller has got sufficiently comfortable in terms of the football authorities to go unconditional with his bid, and on that basis we can proceed," said Rangers joint administrator David Whitehouse. "Mr Miller now proposes to complete his transaction by the end of the season." The "incubator" idea would leave an "old company" saddled with the club's debts and aiming to deal with its creditors via a Creditors Voluntary Arrangement [CVA]. Administrator Paul Clark explained that the two entities would later reunite, saying he thought it was an "entirely workable strategy". Clark also revealed that Miller's bid was "substantially greater" than the rival offer from the Blue Knights consortium led by former Rangers director Paul Murray and backed by Sale Sharks owner Brian Kennedy. He added that it would provide "a stable platform" for the club and provide the best return for creditors. Clark stressed that the bid "avoids the need for liquidation" but did not address what would happen in the event of a failure to agree a CVA.

Rangers are facing a 12-month transfer embargo, pending an appeal against the Scottish Football Association's decision. And given PFA Scotland believe players are not legally obliged to join a newco, the American, who runs a tow truck business, may struggle to assemble a squad. Uefa also insist clubs are members of national associations for three years before they are allowed into European competition. Sections of the Rangers support have voiced opposition to Miller's proposed takeover. However, following Wednesday's 5-0 win over Dundee United manager Ally McCoist said: "I think everybody has got to be given a chance, whether it's Bill Miller or whoever it may be. "We would all be wrong to sit and be judge and jury immediately before anything could happen. "I don't think we are in a position other than we have to be supportive of somebody that will hopefully come in and take the club forward. "People will have their own opinions on things and ideas of who they want. "But, from within the club, we just want somebody who will come in and give us a little bit of stability again and hopefully take the club forward."












3 May 2012 Last updated at 11:36
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17921616

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Pep Guardiola to end reign as Barcelona coach in summer

Friday, April 27, 2012

Pep Guardiola will stand down as Barcelona manager at the end of the season after deciding not to renew his rolling one-year contract.

The 41-year-old, who was appointed in 2008 and has led the Catalan club to 13 trophies, will be succeeded by current assistant Tito Vilanova. Barca look set to miss out to Real Madrid in La Liga and were knocked out of the Champions League by Chelsea. "The reason is simple: four years is enough," said Guardiola. "I'm drained and I need to fill up. The demand has been very high and a manager must be strong." It is understood the former Spain international will take a year away from football after relinquishing his duties to Vilanova. "At the beginning of December I announced to the chairman that I was seeing the end of my era at Barcelona," he continued. "Time has taken its toll - I rise each day and don't feel the same. I am going with the understanding that I have done my duty. "You can only recover by resting and getting away from everything. It would have been a bad idea to continue. Perhaps it would not have gone wrong but I have the perception that it would. It is my time to go.

  "Now we are out of the two main competitions it is a good time to announce this. I did not want to continue with the confusion. "I want to thank my players who are responsible for everything that has happened here." Guardiola was speaking at a news conference attended by many of his players and received rapturous applause at the end. The likes of captain Carles Puyol, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas looked emotional as their coach announced his departure. Guardiola is the most successful coach in Barca history, with three league titles, two Champions Leagues and a Copa del Rey among his haul.

 He has overseen the rise of three-time world player of the year Lionel Messi, Xavi and Iniesta, while signing Fabregas from Arsenal. Guardiola was particularly close to Messi - describing him as "the best ever" player - while the Argentina forward suggested Guardiola was the main factor behind Barca's recent success. A former Barca captain, Guardiola has always maintained he would do what was best for the club.









 27 April 2012 Last updated at 12:52
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17855980

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Jose Mourinho wants Chelsea to win the Champions League

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho wants Chelsea to beat Bayern Munich in the Champions League final after his side lost to the German club on penalties. 

 Chelsea progressed to the final by beating Barcelona, despite playing most of the second leg with 10 men. "I obviously want Chelsea to win. They were heroes to beat Barcelona with 10 men," said the former Blues boss. "I'm proud of my players and we have to be strong but we were lacking freshness in an enormous game." Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice inside the opening quarter of an hour to put Real ahead in the second leg of their semi-final only for Arjen Robben to score from the penalty spot to level the tie on aggregate. Extra-time could not separate the sides, before Ronaldo and Kaka had penalties saved in the shoot out, with Sergio Ramos firing over the bar to book Bayern place in the final against Chelsea. Mourinho was looking to win his third Champions League with a record third club after guiding Porto and Inter Milan to the trophy. But despite their strong start, Real - who beat La Liga rivals Barca at the weekend - were unable to find a winner and were undone by a Bayern side who were able to field rested players after Borussia Dortmund wrapped up the Bundesliga. "You have to stay balanced when you win and when you lose," Mourinho said. "The lads were fantastic, with an incredible mentality against a great team, against a team that last weekend were on holiday. "We lost, we are sad and they are happy but that's football." Bayern, who are chasing a fifth victory in the competition, are the first club since Roma in 1984 to play a European Cup final on home soil, although the Italians were beaten on penalties by Liverpool. Coach Jupp Heynckes said: "We've achieved our main objective of the season, it was almost an obsession for us to play the final in our stadium. "We played a great game against an extraordinary opponent who went 2-0 ahead tonight but we have managed to get a goal back, our goalkeeper has been great at the end and we've had a bit of luck. "I told them before we may have to play for 120 minutes but I did not expect the penalties." Chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who twice won the European Cup as a player with Bayern, said: "I have not witnessed something like that in 40 years of professional football. "This tops everything we experienced in the 70s and 80s. I am very happy and very proud. That was top quality football."











 25 April 2012 Last updated at 23:21 GMT
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17850157

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