EPL Season 2010/2011

English Premier League Fixtures - 26th & 27th December 2010

2010-12-21T04:39:00.000-08:00

Sun 26th December 2010
Fulham	v	West Ham Utd	12:00
Blackburn	v	Stoke City	15:00
Blackpool	v	Liverpool	15:00
Bolton	v	WBA	15:00
Everton	v	Birmingham	15:00
Man Utd	v	Sunderland	15:00
Newcastle	v	Manchester City	15:00
Wolves	v	Wigan Athletic	15:00
Aston Villa	v	Tottenham	17:30
Mon 27th December 2010
Arsenal	v	Chelsea	20:00

Brazilian Alex Signing Four-Year Deal with Chelsea

2009-10-13T11:30:00.001-07:00

The spate of new contracts for Chelsea's current squad continued Wednesday with Brazilian centreback Alex signing a new four-year deal at the English Premier League leaders.

The 27-year-old has been sidelined recently following surgery on his groin but resumed full training this week.

"I am very happy to start again to train and feel no pain, and to sign for four more years," Alex said.

The defender is also targetting a return to the Brazil side in the run-up to next year's World Cup finals in South Africa.

"To go back into the national team is important to me," he added. "Also the Chelsea team started very well this season, is at the top, and this season to win the Premier League is important to me. Now I want to play."

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti said he was delighted to tie Alex down to a long term deal.

"He is just returning from injury and surgery but he is a player I know well," Ancelotti said. "I am familiar with all of his fantastic qualities, so I am delighted he will be with us for another four years."

Alex, who has made 80 Chelsea appearances and scored seven goals since signing from PSV Eindhoven in 2007, is the second Chelsea player to commit to a new contract this week.

Ivory Coast forward Salomon Kalou signed a new deal on Monday and Didier Drogba, John Terry, Ashley Cole, John Mikel Obi, Florent Malouda, Hilario and Michael Mancienne have all penned new contracts since the end of last season.

Chelsea have been keen to tie down their current players after being banned from signing any new players until January 2010 as a result of being found guilty of inducing teenager Gael Kakuta to breach his contract with Lens two years ago.

English Premier League Fixtures - 17th & 18th October 2009

2009-10-12T02:18:00.000-07:00

Sat 17th October 2009
Aston Villa	v	Chelsea	12:45
Arsenal	v	Birmingham	15:00
Everton	v	Wolves	15:00
Man Utd	v	Bolton	15:00
Portsmouth	v	Tottenham	15:00
Stoke City	v	West Ham Utd	15:00
Sunderland	v	Liverpool	15:00
Sun 18th October 2009
Blackburn	v	Burnley	13:00
Wigan Athletic	v	Manchester City	16:00

Ronaldo Celebrated Imminent Move to Real Madrid withParis Hilton

2009-06-13T00:57:00.000-07:00

Champagne-swilling Cristiano Ronaldo and Paris Hilton got down and dirty as they teamed up to celebrate the soccer ace's $131 million transfer.

The winking winger, 24, kissed and cuddled the 28-year-old socialite in a Hollywood club before they headed to her sister's home.

Ronaldo's move from Manchester United to Real Madrid sets a new world record.

A clubber who witnessed their frolicking said: "They were sucking each other's faces off like their plane was going down.

"At one point Ronaldo had a bottle between his legs and Paris was stroking it. It was very racy."

After sharing steamy cuddles and expensive champagne for two hours, Paris headed to sister Nicky's home in the Hollywood Hills at 2.05 a.m.

Ronaldo, 24, joined her there an hour later after a brief stopover at his hotel.

He left at 5 a.m. with a broad grin plastered across his face.

Carlos Tevez To Be Switched To Manchester City

2009-06-11T05:12:00.000-07:00

Carlos Tevez appears to be edging closer to making a shock switch to Manchester City.

The Manchester United star, who is at the end of his two-year loan at Old Trafford, is seriously considering joining their city rivals, according to The Guardian.

Carlos Tevez has turned to Diego Maradona for advice as he decides which side of Manchester his future lies on.

The Argentine striker will decide this week whether to stay with United or move across town to City after both clubs agreed to match the price set by Tevez's adviser Kia Joorabchian.

And the input of Argentina coach Maradona could now hold the key. Tevez has been back in his homeland preparing for the World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Ecuador.

And he is torn between remaining a squad player under Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford or becoming an Eastlands cult hero in the blue revolution being led by Mark Hughes.

United want to keep the Argentina striker but they have yet to agree a deal with the player's adviser Kia Joorabchian, who is demanding £25.5million when the current deal expires at the end of the month.

Reports last night suggested Tevez had already completed his switch to Eastlands and although they were premature, the chances of that happening are increasing by the day.

Tottenham Interested in Signing Ruud van Nistelrooy

2009-06-11T05:10:00.000-07:00

Harry Redknapp, the Tottenham manager, is considering a move for the Real Madrid forward, who is seen as surplus to requirements.

Van Nistelrooy turns 33 next month and has only recently returned to light training following surgery on his right knee.

Redknapp believes that, with Darren Bent and Roman Pavlyuchenko set to leave White Hart Lane, Van Nistelrooy’s Premier League experience could prove vital.

Wigan’s Paul Scharner is also attracting interest from Spurs and Fulham, along with Everton. The Austrian midfielder admitted: "Tottenham, Everton and Fulham are interested in me, just like Hertha (Berlin) and Hamburg. I would prefer to stay in England."

Former Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric, has told the club’s new owner Sulaiman Al Fahim that they could worse than taking Redknapp back to Fratton Park for a third time. Now at Leicester, Mandaric said: "You've got to do the right thing and if bringing Harry to the club is what he needs to do, that is what he has to do."

Meanwhile, Spurs’ Mexican forward Giovani dos Santos could be set for a return to Spain, with Espanyol.

Manchester United to Sign Brazilian Youngster Dodo

2009-06-11T05:05:00.000-07:00

The 17-year-old centre-back currently plies his trade with Corinthians and is regarded as an extremely exciting prospect for the future.

Dodo has been quoted as saying that he expects to join the Red Devils over the summer in a transfer that would see him link up with compatriots Rafael and Fabio da Silva and Rodrigo Possebon.

United have yet to indicate whether they will swoop for Dodo but the thought of such a move has angered 1970 World Cup winner Carlos Alberto.

Alberto finds it infuriating that big European clubs are able to sign Brazilian youngsters and has called on Fifa to change its laws.

"It is disgraceful United are allowed to do this to Brazilian football," Alberto said in the Manchester Evening News.

"The big teams have the money and can take our best players. It is a big problem in Brazil.

"The clubs cannot keep good young players because they can make much more money in other countries. They should change the law so, at least until the age of 20 or 21, the best players play in Brazil and get experience before moving to Europe.

Dimitar Berbatov "I Am More Than Just a Goalscorer"

2009-06-11T04:59:00.000-07:00

Berbatov has been criticised by United fans since his club-record £30.75 million move from Tottenham for his laid back approach and nonchelant demeanour on the pitch.

It did not help matters that the Bulgarian managed only 14 goals in all competitions last season, with a section of United supporters even booing the 28-year-old towards the end of the campaign.

Notoriously haughty Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov has shown his deferential side by admitting that he regards Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson as an unquestioned authority.

"All the players have huge respect for him," he said. "You can be tying up your boots but when he begins to talk you just freeze and listen to him. His word is law to us."

The 28-year-old's high-and-mighty demeanour has not exactly endeared himself to the United fans, who will have perhaps been pleasantly surprised to hear him strike such a submissive tone when speaking of the gaffer.

However, Berbatov believes the criticism is unfair and that he contributes more than just goals.

He said: "I want people to remember me as a very good and skilful player. I don't want to be remembered as a top scorer.

"I have played with strikers with 100 goals who can't control the ball. It seems like a three metre pass when they are trying to control the ball with their feet."

Recent reports have suggested Berbatov might even be on his way out of Old Trafford. However, the player's agent, Emile Danchev, has said such claims are wide of the mark.

Danchev said: "Despite speculation that he may leave, I want to declare that Dimitar will play for Manchester United next season.

"He will stay and we hope he will win what he missed out on this year." The former Bayer Leverkusen and Tottenham star went on to insist that lifting the Premier League trophy meant more to him than winning the Champions League would have.

"Yes, it was my number one aim," Berbatov was quoted as saying by Sky Sports. "Probably, I was much more pleased than my team-mates but it was my first title after all.

"I think it's understandable since Ryan Giggs told me he has eleven championship medals."

Real Madrid Bid 80 Million Pound for Christiano Ronaldo

2009-06-11T04:51:00.000-07:00

Manchester United have accepted a world record 80 million pound bid for Christiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid. Manchester United said on Thursday they have received a world record 80 million pound bid for forward Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid.

According to reports the club has accepted the offer from Real.

The Portuguese winger has been insisting to join the Spanish giants after two years of courting.

"At Cristiano's request - who has again expressed his desire to leave - and after discussion with the player's representatives, United have agreed to give Real Madrid permission to talk to the player," a statement on the United website said.

"Matters are expected to be concluded by 30 June. The club will not comment until further notice."

The move comes just four days after Kaka was confirmed as the first signing of what will be a incredible summer of spending from Madrid.

Sources said the deal was agreed when Ramon Calderon was at the helm of affairs at the Santiago Bernebeu and the new president Florentino Perez has merely ensured the formalities are completed.

Perez has promised to deliver a "spectacular sporting project" built around the world's greatest players, and local media have spoken of a 300 million euro war chest which will be used to finance a second 'Galactico era' at the Bernabeu.

Having lured the likes of Luis Figo, Zinedine Zidane and David Beckham to Real earlier in the decade, Perez's flagship first signing on his return was Kaka.

It was a declaration of intent and a dig at his predecessor.

He has also spoken of interest in Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo, Bayern Munich's Ribery, Liverpool's Xabi Alonso and Valencia duo David Villa and David Silva.

New coach Manuel Pellegrini is the man tasked with blending these talents into a team capable of challenging treble-winners Barcelona.

Birmingham Sign Ecuador Striker Christian Benitez

2009-06-04T11:28:00.000-07:00

Birmingham have agreed a deal to bring exciting young Ecuador striker Christian Benitez to the English Premier League. The newly-promoted club announced that they have agreed a fee with Benitez's Mexican club Santos Laguna and finalised personal terms with the 23-year-old, who will travel to England next week for a medical.

Birmingham would not disclose how much they have agreed to pay for the striker but the fee is reported to be in the region of nine million pounds, which would surpass the previous club record of 6.25 million paid for Emile Heskey in 2004.

Benitez - son of Ecuador's all-time leading goalscorer, Ermen - played for his country at the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany and has scored 31 goals in 58 games in Mexico's Primera Division over the last two campaigns.

He recently underwent surgery on a shoulder injury.

Agence France-Presse

Manchester United Agree Four-Year Shirt Deal With Aon

2009-06-04T11:19:00.000-07:00

Aon Corp (AOC.N), the world's largest insurance broker, has agreed a four-year deal to sponsor the shirts of English Premier League champions Manchester United from the start of the 2010-11 season. Manchester United will replace the three-letter logo of one American insurer, now emblazoned on players’ shirts, with the three-letter logo of another American insurer.

United's current 14 million pounds ($23.25 million) a year deal with U.S. insurance giant American International Group (AIG.N) runs out in June 2010.

Details of the agreement were not disclosed but U.S. media reports said it was worth about 20 million pounds a year.

"We are delighted to be entering such an important relationship with a company of the stature of Aon and to have its logo adorn our shirts from the start of the 2010-11 season," United chief executive David Gill said in a statement.

"We look forward to being closely aligned with the world leader in risk management, a firm which shares our values and is an exciting partner for Manchester United.

"Today's announcement clearly strengthens our position as one of the biggest clubs in world football."

“They are the brand that everyone wants to associate with,” said Nigel Currie, director of Brand Rapport, a sponsorship agency in Guildford, England.

David Gill, chief executive of Manchester United, said the deal “clearly strengthens our position as one of the biggest clubs in world football.”
United won the Premier League title last month for the third year in a row to continue their domination of English football but they lost 2-0 to Barcelona in the Champions League final to end the season on a disappointing note.

The deal represents a coup for Aon, which has secured one of the most prestigious advertising deals in sport with United's huge global fan base making them one of the top prizes in sports sponsorship.

Barcelona Wins the European Champions League Title

2009-05-28T02:46:00.000-07:00

Patience, flair and a brilliant game of keep-away prevailed over force Wednesday night when Barcelona dominated Manchester United, 2-0, to win the European Champions League title, Europe’s most prestigious club soccer tournament.

Barcelona controlled the ball for long stretches with its unhurried and clever passing, attacked incessantly, held tight with a patchwork defense and made a tactical switch at forward, placing Lionel Messi as a central striker and shifting Samuel Eto’o to the right wing. Eventually, Messi drifted into midfield to secure possession. Both he and Eto’o delivered goals as Barcelona won its third European title and second in four years.

It will be left to Barcelona’s supporters to gleefully debate whether this is the Catalans’ greatest team, now that the first-year coach Pep Guardiola has guided his squad to the Spanish League title, the Spanish Cup and now the European Cup with a style that is familiarly elegant and ebullient. For a night, it was enough for Barcelona fans — seemingly the vast majority among 72,000 at Olympic Stadium — to celebrate with cameras that flashed like fireflies as the trophy was held aloft in a shower of confetti.

“We are not the best team of history, but we have played the best season in history to win three titles and the way we won,” said Guardiola, 38, who has won a European championship both as a Barcelona player and coach.

Manchester United, meanwhile, lost for the first time in 26 Champions League matches and failed to defend its 2008 title. Even with four attackers in the second half, the English Premier League champions often seemed lethargic, uninvolved — at times unrecognizable — after missing several chances in the early minutes of the game.

So strong and constrictive on most nights, the Manchester United defense was unable to subdue the organized and creative Barcelona attack, which flowed with the inevitability of water through any available crease. Sir Alex Ferguson, the Manchester manager, dismissed his defense as “shoddy.”

Guardiola had urged his Barcelona players to be daring, and after the victory said, “We wanted to say we played and were not being cowards.” He added, “There’s nothing more dangerous than not taking risks.” Pep Guardiola dedicated Barcelona's 2-0 victory over Manchester United in the final of the Champions League Wednesday to Italian football legend Paolo Maldini.

Barcelona’s one apparent weakness, a depleted defense, never became a liability. Dani Alves and Éric Abidal were suspended and Rafael Márquez was shelved with injury. But Guardiola found a reliable solution, placing Carles Puyol at right back, Yaya Touré in central defense alongside Gerard Piqué and Sylvinho at left back. They remained impenetrable.

Guardiola made another adroit move up front. Last year in the Champions League semifinals, Manchester United’s left back, Patrice Evra, had handcuffed Messi on the right wing. On Wednesday, Guardiola countered with Messi as a central striker, moving Eto’o outside. Later, Messi retreated into midfield and, along with Xavi Hernández, helped Barcelona control the ball as if it were tethered to his foot. Sometimes, it seemed minutes passed before Manchester United could regain possession from the smaller, more dexterous Barcelona players.

“If they get in front of you, they’re very difficult to beat,” Ferguson said. “They can keep the ball in areas of the field where it is difficult to protect.”

Early on, it was Manchester United that threatened to dominate. After missing several inviting opportunities, though, the team deflated, never regaining its spirit and vigor.

In the second minute, forward Cristiano Ronaldo drove a low, hard free kick that bounced and could not be smothered by Victor Valdés, the Barcelona goalkeeper. Park Ji-sung, Manchester United’s tireless winger and the first Asian player to participate in a Champions League final, pounced on the rebound, but a Barcelona defender slid across his path. The shot deflected high over the crossbar. Ronaldo later lashed two shots wide, unfulfilled chances that Manchester United could not afford.

“Losing that first goal was decisive for us,” Ferguson said. “We couldn’t recover from that.”

Barcelona quickly struck back. In the 10th minute, midfielder Andrés Iniesta, recovered from a thigh injury, played the ball to Eto’o on the right flank. Eto’o, a Cameroonian forward, cut sharply inside, turning the defender Nemanja Vidic, leaving him corkscrewed and helpless. Eto’o punched the ball into the net off the left hand of Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, giving Barcelona the only goal it would need.

After halftime, Manchester United clearly needed an infusion of energy, but neither the replacement forwards Carlos Tévez nor Dimitar Barbatov could kick-start a somnolent engine.

And soon the game fell out of reach.

In the 70th minute, Puyol stole a pass for Barcelona, beginning a magical sequence that finished with Xavi chipping a superb pass from outside the area to a waiting Messi, six yards from the goal, unattended by two defenders. He headed the ball over van der Sar’s head and Barcelona took an insurmountable 2-0 lead. Now it is Messi, not Ronaldo, who is certain to gain favor as the world’s greatest player.

“We didn’t have to win to know he’s the best,” Guardiola said.

In the end, though, Barcelona did win, primarily by getting the ball and refusing to give it back.

“For us, we are a horrible team, a disaster team, when we don’t have the ball,” Guardiola said. “We need the ball. We got it.”

UEFA Champions League Semi-finals Lineup

2009-04-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

		First leg	Second leg
Barcelona	Chelsea	28/04 »	06/05 »
Man. United	Arsenal	29/04 »	05/05 »

Arsenal Cruised Past Villarreal 3-0

2009-04-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

Arsenal cruised past Villarreal 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium to make it through 4-1 overall and set up a mouth-watering tie between the two Barclays Premier League sides.

Theo Walcott, Emmanuel Adebayor and Robin van Persie (penalty) were on the scoresheet as Arsene Wenger's youngsters defied their injury worries in defence to wrap up the tie.

The Spaniards then had Sebastian Eguren dismissed and the hosts were able to conserve energy for their FA Cup tie against Chelsea at the weekend.

So now old rivals Sir Alex Ferguson and Wenger must battle it out over two matches for the right to go to the Rome final on 27th May. Chelsea play Barcelona in the other semi-final tie.

Chelsea Defeated Bolton Wanderers to Keep Title Hopes Alive

2009-04-13T02:38:00.000-07:00

Chelsea 4-3 Bolton Wanderers

Chelsea kept their title hopes alive after surviving an incredible Bolton Wanderers fightback in a seven-goal thriller at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea were 4-0 in front and cruising to victory when coach Guus Hiddink replaced Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard in the 65th minute.

Two goals from Drogba, a Lampard penalty and Michael Ballack's first league goal of the season had put Chelsea in total command.

But battling Bolton scored three times in 11 minutes through Andy O'Brien, Chris Basham and Matt Taylor to give the Blues an almighty scare.

The result leaves Chelsea just four points behind leaders Manchester United at the top of the Barclays Premier League.

United also have a match in hand but Chelsea are determined to keep the pressure on Sir Alex Ferguson's team.

Bolton had the better of the opening exchanges with Chelsea looking a pale shadow of the side that demolished Liverpool in the Champions League in midweek.

The home side were almost caught out in the second minute when a free-kick from Taylor was palmed away by goalkeeper Petr Cech as it arrowed towards the top corner.

Chelsea's best response was a 20-yard drive by Drogba that Bolton goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen did well to keep out.

Federico Macheda Put Manchester United Back on Top

2009-04-13T02:31:00.000-07:00

Sunderland 1-2 Manchester United

Federico Macheda climbed off the bench to snatch victory for the second time in a week as Manchester United clawed their way back to the top of the Barclays Premier League table.

The 17-year-old Italian needed just 45 seconds to claim three points for his side with a 76th-minute winner at Sunderland and send the reigning champions back above Liverpool, who had briefly headed them as a result of their 4-0 win over Blackburn Rovers.

His intervention could not have been more timely with the Black Cats having dragged themselves back into the match courtesy of Kenwyne Jones' 55th-minute equaliser, his first goal since 7th February.

United looked to be in complete control when Paul Scholes capped a dominant start by heading the visitors into a 19th-minute lead, but they allowed the Wearsiders back into the match in front of a partisan crowd of 45,408.

Sir Alex Ferguson's troops will now regroup ahead of their testing Champions League quarter-final, second leg trip to Porto on Wednesday evening knowing they remain a point clear of Liverpool with a match in hand in the race for the Barclays Premier League title.

By contrast, Sunderland face a monumental home fixture with fellow strugglers Hull City at the Stadium of Light next weekend with their top-flight status very much in the balance.

Barclays English Premier League Results

2009-04-13T02:30:00.000-07:00

Sun 12th April 2009
Aston Villa	3-3	Everton	Report >
Manchester City	1-3	Fulham	Report >
Sat 11th April 2009
Liverpool	4-0	Blackburn	Report >
Chelsea	4-3	Bolton	Report >
Middlesbrough	3-1	Hull City	Report >
Portsmouth	2-2	WBA	Report >
Sunderland	1-2	Man Utd	Report >
Tottenham	1-0	West Ham Utd	Report >
Wigan Athletic	1-4	Arsenal	Report >
Stoke City	1-1	Newcastle

Barclays English Premier League Fixtures Sat 18th & Sun 19th April 2009

2009-04-13T02:27:00.000-07:00

Sat 18th April 2009
Aston Villa	v	West Ham Utd	15:00
Middlesbrough	v	Fulham	15:00
Portsmouth	v	Bolton	15:00
Stoke City	v	Blackburn	15:00
Sunderland	v	Hull City	15:00
Sun 19th April 2009
Tottenham	v	Newcastle	13:30
Manchester City	v	WBA	15:00

Villa Win Put Manchester United On Top

2009-04-07T04:39:00.000-07:00

Manchester United have retained their top position in the Premiership after a dramatic match at Old Trafford on April 5 that saw the scoreline swing several times. United opened the scoring in the 13th minute with Cristiano Ronaldo on target from an indirect free-kick inside the penalty area, but lost their grip and managed to fall behind after a 31st minute John Carew and a 58th minute Gabriel Agbonlahor goals.

United regrouped and pushed everything they had forward in attack to bridge the gap with Liverpool, who were two points ahead of them in the table, having won a day earlier against Fulham. Ronaldo then scored again in the 80th minute and debutant Federico Macheda scored a third in added time, insuring that Alex Ferguson's men would claim the three points and intensify the drama at the top of the Premiership.

The win put United back on the top of the table, a point clear of Liverpool and with a game in hand. After the match, Ferguson was quoted as saying by the United website: "The surge towards the end of every game at United is always great and you always hope you can get something out of it."

"It doesn't always happen, but the drive and determination to do so is always there. We were seven or eight players short against Villa, but you could see how the young lads were prepared to go right until the very end.

Regarding Macheda, Alex Ferguson said: "His whole contribution was fantastic from the minute he arrived. He made some penetrative runs and was a threat all the time; I actually thought he could have had a penalty when he went for header not long after he came on."

"I said 'well done' to him afterwards, but he'll need to keep his feet on the ground because he'll get a lot of publicity over the next few days and he'll need to handle that."

English Premier League Top Scorers

2009-04-07T04:35:00.000-07:00

15 Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)
13 Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
12 Kevin Davies (Bolton Wanderers)
11 Frank Lampard (Chelsea)
Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa)
Peter Crouch (Portsmouth)
Robinho (Manchester City)
10 Amr Zaki (Wigan Athletic)
Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal)
Darren Bent (Tottenham Hotspur)
9 Carlton Cole (West Ham United)
Robin van Persie (Arsenal)
Matthew Taylor (Bolton Wanderers)
Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
Fernando Torres (Liverpool)
Djibril Cisse (Sunderland)
Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)
8 Dimitar Berbatov (Manchester United)
Robbie Keane (Tottenham Hotspur)
Michael Owen (Newcastle United)
Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool)
Benni McCarthy (Blackburn Rovers)
John Carew (Aston Villa)
Ricardo Fuller (Stoke City)

English Premier League Fixtures - 28th February & 1st March 2009

2009-02-24T02:16:00.000-08:00

Sat 28th February 2009
Everton	v	WBA	12:45
Arsenal	v	Fulham	15:00
Chelsea	v	Wigan Athletic	15:00
Middlesbrough	v	Liverpool	15:00
Sun 1st March 2009
Hull City	v	Blackburn	12:30
West Ham Utd	v	Manchester City	12:30
Bolton	v	Newcastle	13:00
Aston Villa	v	Stoke City	15:00

English Premier League Results - 2nd & 23rd February 2009

2009-02-24T02:14:00.000-08:00

Mon 23rd February 2009
Hull City	1-2	Tottenham	20:00	Report >
Sun 22nd February 2009
Fulham	2-0	WBA	13:30	Report >
Liverpool	1-1	Manchester City	15:00	Report >
Newcastle	0-0	Everton

English Premier League Top Scorers till Today

2009-02-24T02:06:00.000-08:00

15 Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea)
12 Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)
11 Robinho (Manchester City)
10 Amr Zaki (Wigan Athletic)
Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa)
9 Robin van Persie (Arsenal)
Kevin Davies (Bolton Wanderers)
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
Frank Lampard (Chelsea)
Darren Bent (Tottenham Hotspur)
Djibril Cisse (Sunderland)
Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)
8 Peter Crouch (Portsmouth)
Carlton Cole (West Ham United)
Fernando Torres (Liverpool)
Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
Michael Owen (Newcastle United)
Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal)
7 Benni McCarthy (Blackburn Rovers)
Matthew Taylor (Bolton Wanderers)
Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool)
Stephen Ireland (Manchester City)
Kenwyne Jones (Sunderland)
Dimitar Berbatov (Manchester United)
Craig Bellamy (Manchester City)

New Chelsea Manager Guus Hiddink meets Chelsea Players

2009-02-12T11:31:00.000-08:00

New Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink met his players for the first time on Thursday at the club's Cobham training headquarters.

Hiddink has replaced Luiz Felipe Scolari, who was sacked on Monday, and although he doesn't officially take charge until next week the Dutchman flew into England ahead of Saturday's FA Cup fifth round tie at Watford to get to know the squad.

He was greeted at Cobham by chief executive Peter Kenyon, who gave the former Australia and South Korea coach a tour of the main building and met some of the players in the treatment room.

Hiddink, who will remain as Russia coach as well as working for Chelsea until the end of the season, was introduced to staff before continuing to the first-team dressing room where he met the remaining first team players.

Those who had played major roles on international duty undertook their recovery session in the state-of-the-art swimming pool, while Hiddink accompanied chairman Bruce Buck out on to the training field to watch the main session, led by Ray Wilkins.

They were later joined by club owner Roman Abramovich and director Eugene Tenenbaum.

Assistant coach Wilkins, who will lead the team against Watford, chatted with the new coach who will start work with the squad on the training ground from Monday.

Chelsea Manager Luiz Felipe Scolari Sacked

2009-02-09T11:00:00.000-08:00

Luiz Felipe Scolari has been sensationally sacked by Chelsea. Luiz Felipe Scolari was hired to take Chelsea back to the top of the Premier League. Instead, the former World Cup-winning coach from Brazil is leaving the London club with the Blues in fourth place and falling further behind leader Manchester United.

The Brazilian, who joined the Premier League club last summer, was expected to reinvigorate the club's fortunes and lead them to titles at home and in Europe, but after a poor run of form the axe has fallen.

Scolari's dismissal as Chelsea manager on Monday came only two days after another poor performance in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Hull. Chants of "You don't know what you're doing" from the Chelsea fans echoed around Stamford Bridge when Scolari made substitutions on Saturday.

Assistant coach Ray Wilkins was placed in interim charge of the team Monday, pending the appointment of Scolari's successor, and it was Wilkins who faced the media Saturday, admitting the weaknesses of the side.

"There seems to be a bit of anxiety among the lads when they don't get the early goal," Wilkins said about the club that Russian billionaire owner Roman Abramovich had hoped to turn into a powerhouse of world football since taking over 5 1/2 years ago.

Pele Slammed Robinho of Rape Allegations

2009-01-29T22:05:00.000-08:00

Edson Aranate do Nascimento, better known as Pele, openly criticized the recent behavior of the international soccer star Robinho on Wednesday.

Speaking from Rio De Janeiro, whilst sitting with FIFA president Joseph Blatter, Robinho's former mentor is quoted as saying by several worldwide news outlets, "It's bad news because, as Brazilians, we fight to create a good image abroad. What happened with Robinho, as well as other players like Adriano and Ronaldo have ruined the image of Brazilian soccer players around the world."

Pele made the remarks next to Jose Serra, the mayor of the city Sao Paulo and the FIFA president Joseph Blatter.

Robinho is currently being investigated for allegedly raping a girl in a nightclub in England on Jan. 14.

Brazilian Soccer Star Robinho Denies Sexual Assault Allegations

2009-01-29T21:51:00.000-08:00

Brazilian soccer star Robinho denied wrongdoing after English police questioned him about allegations of a sexual assault, his spokesman said Wednesday. Robinho, British soccer’s most expensive signing, denied wrongdoing after reports that he was arrested and questioned over an alleged sex assault.

The 25-year-old soccer forward was released on bail by police after being questioned late Tuesday in Leeds, England, where the crime was alleged to have taken place at a nightclub early on Jan. 14. Robinho then played in a 2-1 victory over Newcastle on Wednesday night.

“We can confirm that Robinho met the police, as pre- arranged and as part of a criminal investigation,” Robinho’s spokesman Chris Nathaniel was quoted as saying on the player’s personal Web site. “He strenuously denies any allegation of wrongdoing or criminality and is happy to cooperate with the police if required further.”

Manchester City star Robinho claimed in a telephone call to Brazil coach Dunga that the 18-year-old woman accusing him of sexual assault is an opportunist.

Last week Robinho left a club training camp in Tenerife without authorization to go to Brazil on what he said was a family matter. He’s now returned to City and faces a club fine of two weeks’ wages, or about 300,000 pounds, according to U.K. press reports.

Brazil Head Coach Dunga Voiced his Support for Robinho

2009-01-29T21:44:00.000-08:00

Brazil head coach Dunga has voiced his support for Manchester City forward Robinho after he was questioned following allegations of a serious sexual assault in Leeds.

The British record signing was questioned by police on Tuesday and issued a statement on his website denying any "wrongdoing or criminality".

And, ahead of Brazil's friendly with Italy at Emirates Stadium on 10th February, Dunga has backed the former Real Madrid player.

"I have no reason to doubt the word of Robinho," said Dunga.

"He is a player on whom I have been able to count every time I have needed him and who has shown exemplary professional behaviour when he has been in the national squad."

Dunga assured Robinho that there was no threat to his place on Brazil’s roster for an exhibition game against Italy on Feb. 10 in London. “Robinho told Dunga that he’s a victim of an opportunist and that he has done everything necessary in the legal sense to clarify the matter, in which he had no participation,” the Brazilian Football Federation said on its Web site.

Barclays English Premier League - Fixtures

2009-01-27T11:20:00.000-08:00

Tues 27th January 2009
Sunderland	v	Fulham	19:45	Preview >
WBA	v	Man Utd	19:45	Preview >
Portsmouth	v	Aston Villa	20:00	Preview >
Tottenham	v	Stoke City	20:00	Preview >
Weds 28th January 2009
Chelsea	v	Middlesbrough	19:45	Preview >
Manchester City	v	Newcastle	19:45	Preview >
Wigan Athletic	v	Liverpool	19:45	Preview >
Blackburn	v	Bolton	20:00	Preview >
Everton	v	Arsenal	20:00	Preview >
West Ham Utd	v	Hull City	20:00

Manchester City 1-0 Wigan Athletic

2009-01-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

Manchester City claimed all three points thanks to a 1-0 win over Wigan Athletic in the Barclays Premier League.

Pablo Zabaleta steered 10-man Manchester City to victory against Wigan with his first goal for the club.

The Argentinian showed good skill to rattle home a shot from 20 yards in the 51st minute after Daniel Sturridge's cross had only been half-cleared.

A minute later City were reduced to 10 men when skipper Richard Dunne was sent off and Wigan should have equalised only for Amr Zaki to head over from close range.

Chelsea 2-1 Stoke City

2009-01-17T11:16:00.000-08:00

Two late goals capped a dramatic fightback by Chelsea who were made to work hard for their win.

Rory Delap put Stoke City in front with a 59th minute goal but Juliano Belletti, on for Jose Bosingwa, headed a dramatic equaliser with three minutes remaining.

Then in second-half stoppage time Frank Lampard slammed the ball home from 20 yards for a sensational finish.

Manchester United Defeated Bolton Wanderers from Last-Minute Goal

2009-01-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

Bolton Wanderers 0-1 Manchester United

Manchester United moved to the Barclays Premier League summit after scoring a last-minute goal.

It appeared the Red Devils would have to settle for a point despite keeping a record-equalling 10th clean sheet.

But when Carlos Tevez broke free of the Bolton Wanderers defence, his cross was perfect for Dimitar Berbatov, who finally broke Jussi Jaaskelainen's brave resistance.

Barclays Premier League Results - Sat 17th January 2009

2009-01-17T11:09:00.000-08:00

Sat 17th January 2009
Blackburn	3-0	Newcastle	Report >
Bolton	0-1	Man Utd	Report >
Chelsea	2-1	Stoke City	Report >
Manchester City	1-0	Wigan Athletic	Report >
Sunderland	1-2	Aston Villa	Report >
WBA	3-0	Middlesbrough

Stoke City 0-0 Liverpool

2009-01-10T12:07:00.000-08:00

League leaders Liverpool had to settle for a point after failing to break down a feisty Stoke City.

Liverpool welcome Fernando Torres back in the side as they travel to the Britannia Stadium to face Stoke today. Steven Gerrard twice rattled the woodwork in the last five minutes and Dirk Kuyt steered a header wide from a good position. The Spanish striker has been out of action since November, but takes his place on the bench. Also back in the squad is midfielder Javier Mascherano who has recovered from a knock which he picked up in the FA Cup win over Preston last week.

However, Stoke City also carved out a number of good chances and Rory Delap should have scored only for his close-range effort to hit the underside of the bar.

Midfielder Xabi Alonso is out with a foot injury, but veteran defender Sami Hyypia makes his 700th club career appearance.

Stoke meanwhile hand Matthew Etherington his debut after joining from West Ham this week. Dave Kitson starts as Ricardo Fuller remains suspended, while fellow striker Richard Cresswell plays strike partner to the former Reading man.

Barclays Premier League Football Results

2009-01-10T12:03:00.001-08:00

Sat 10th January 2009
Aston Villa	2-1	WBA	12:45	Report >
Arsenal	1-0	Bolton	15:00	Report >
Everton	2-0	Hull City	15:00	Report >
Middlesbrough	1-1	Sunderland	15:00	Report >
Newcastle	2-2	West Ham Utd	15:00	Report >
Tues 30th December 2008
Hull City	0-1	Aston Villa

Birmingham City Signed Winger Scott Sinclair on Loan from Chelsea

2009-01-08T10:43:00.000-08:00

Birmingham City have signed winger Scott Sinclair on loan from Chelsea on an initial one-month deal. The 19-year-old has already established himself as one of the most exciting attacking players of his age having enjoyed previous loan spells at Plymouth, Queens Park Rangers, Charlton Athletic and Crystal Palace over the last two years. England Under-19 international Sinclair is expected to make his debut in Saturday's Championship match against Blackpool at Bloomfield Road.

IFFHS 2008 List of the Top 10 National Leagues Released

2009-01-08T10:34:00.000-08:00

The IFFHS (International Federation of Football History and Statistics) released their annual report and named the EPL as world number one. The English Premier League is the top football league in the world for the second consecutive year. This is largely due to last season's Champions League, which was dominated by English teams.

The IFFHS generate a ranking using a statistical formula based primarily on the performance of teams from the various national leagues in continental tournaments. The recent strong performances of English teams in International club competition, particularly the European Champions League, has resulted in the EPL dominating the ranks for the past couple of years.

La Liga drop down to fourth - according to the IFFHS, the Spanish clubs did poorly in the Champions League and UEFA Cup, as well as other competitions which are taken into consideration.

The Italian Serie A was in second place after receiving the same amount of points as last year.

Primera Division Argentina was third best league in the world, after achieving multiple successes in the CONEMBOL competitions of 2008.

The Netherlands Eredivisie is not listed as Dutch clubs made little impression in European competition.

Here is the list of the top ten national leagues according to the IFFHS 2008 report:

England
Italy
Argentina
Spain
Brazil
Germany
France
Mexico
Portugal
Ukraine

Barclays Premier League Fixtures - 10th & 11th January 2009

2009-01-05T12:11:00.000-08:00

Sat 10th January 2009
Aston Villa	v	WBA	12:45
Arsenal	v	Bolton	15:00
Everton	v	Hull City	15:00
Fulham	v	Blackburn	15:00
Middlesbrough	v	Sunderland	15:00
Newcastle	v	West Ham Utd	15:00
Portsmouth	v	Manchester City	15:00
Stoke City	v	Liverpool	17:30
Sun 11th January 2009
Wigan Athletic	v	Tottenham	13:30
Man Utd	v	Chelsea	16:00

Manchestar United beats Southampton 3-0 in FA Cup

2009-01-05T11:58:00.000-08:00

Defending champion Manchester United cruised to a 3-0 victory at second tier 10-man Southampton in the FA Cup on Sunday and will host Tottenham in the fourth round.

Danny Welbeck got the opening goal after 20 minutes and Nani added a 48th-minute penalty kick for the record 11-time F.A. Cup champion. Darron Gibson made it 3-0 after 81 minutes.

Facing a 10-man team that is struggling in the League Championship, United created many more chances but appeared lucky to its second goal. Nani scored from the penalty spot in the 48th minute for a handball against Southampton's David McGoldrick. Darron Gibson added the third in the 81st after a strong run by Wayne Rooney.

Matthew Paterson of second-tier Southampton was dismissed after 37 minutes for a challenge on Nemanja Vidic.

The Saints had an upset 1-0 win over United in the 1976 final, the only time they’ve won the tournament.

Aston Villa won 2-1 at Gillingham and will travel to Cheltenham or Doncaster in the next round.

Liverpool Captain Steven Gerrard Arrested Over Bar Assault

2008-12-30T01:38:00.000-08:00

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard was charged with assault and affray following a brawl outside a Merseyside nightclub that left a man needing hospital treatment for facial injuries, police said. "Steven Gerrard has been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray," the duty inspector for Merseyside Police said.

The 28-year-old soccer player was released on bail with two other men to appear in court on Jan. 23 following their arrest yesterday in the town of Southport, northwest England, said a Merseyside police spokesman who declined to be identified in line with regulation.

Gerrard was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray, the spokesman said. Three other men, who were arrested with Gerrard at 2:30 a.m. yesterday morning, were released without charge pending further inquiries, he added.

Calls to the London offices of WMG Management, which represents Gerrard, went unanswered. Liverpool yesterday declined to comment on Gerrard’s arrest. Liverpool is co-owned by George Gillett, Jr., who also owns the NHL's Canadiens.

Midfielder Gerrard, who has played 70 matches for England, had been out celebrating following Liverpool’s 5-1 victory at Newcastle two days ago, in which he scored twice.

Liverpool leads England’s Premier League by three points and faces Preston North End on Jan. 3 in the third round of the F.A. Cup.

Liverpool Won 5-1 at Newcastle United

2008-12-28T10:50:00.001-08:00

Newcastle United 1-5 Liverpool

Steven Gerrard scored twice as Liverpool won 5-1 at Newcastle United to end 2008 three points clear of Chelsea.

The Anfield skipper netted the opener after 31 minutes of a one-sided match at St James' Park where the home side needed a string of fine saves from Shay Given to keep the score down.

Sami Hyypia nodded the second on 36 minutes before David Edgar pulled one back with a header on the stroke of half-time to give his side a glimmer of hope.

But the majestic Merseysiders restored their two-goal advantage through Ryan Babel five minutes into the second half. Gerrard ran through to grab his second on 66 minutes and Xabi Alonso wrapped it up with a penalty 13 minutes from time.

Barclays Premier League Results - 28th December 2008

2008-12-28T10:41:00.000-08:00


Arsenal	1 - 0	Portsmouth	FT
Blackburn	2 - 2	Manchester City	FT
Bolton	0 - 1	Wigan Athletic	FT
Everton	3 - 0	Sunderland	FT
Fulham	2 - 2	Chelsea	FT
Newcastle	1 - 5	Liverpool	FT
WBA	2 - 0	Tottenham	FT
West Ham Utd	2 - 1	Stoke City	FT

Manchester United 1-0 Stoke City

2008-12-26T10:39:00.000-08:00

Manchester United 1-0 Stoke City

Manchester United carved out a priceless victory after a tough examination away to Stoke City.

Carlos Tevez secured the Barclays Premier League points for Manchester United against 10-man Stoke at the Britannia Stadium with the winner seven minutes from time.

He scored only his second league goal of the campaign with a touch at the back post following an incisive move involving Gary Neville and substitute Dimitar Berbatov.

The strike came with Stoke down on numbers after Andy Wilkinson was dismissed in the 72nd minute for two yellow cards.

Manchester City 5-1 Hull City

2008-12-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Manchester City 5-1 Hull City

Manchester City produced a sensational performance to lift the pressure on manager Mark Hughes.

Inspirational record signing Robinho and striker Felipe Caicedo both struck twice as Hughes' men tore into stunned Hull City with four first-half goals at Eastlands.

Hull City salvaged some pride with a Craig Fagan consolation goal after embarrassed manager Phil Brown delivered his half-time talk on the pitch.

But the visitors remained distinctly second best and Stephen Ireland grabbed a fifth to lift his side out of the Barclays Premier League relegation zone.

Liverpool beat Bolton Wanderers 3 - 0

2008-12-26T10:33:00.000-08:00

Liverpool 3-0 Bolton Wanderers
Liverpool went back to the top of the Barclays Premier League with a victory over Bolton Wanderers at Anfield.

Chelsea's victory earlier in the day put the London side in pole position until Robbie Keane's double and a goal from Albert Riera ensured the Reds went back to the head of the pack.

The win meant Liverpool have completed all of 2008 unbeaten at home in the league. Missing Alvaro Arbeloa with a hamstring injury, manager Rafael Benitez re-jigged his back line, moving Jamie Carragher to right-back with Sami Hyypia slotting into the centre of defence.

Barclays Premier League Results - Fri 26th December 2008

2008-12-26T10:15:00.000-08:00

Barclays Premier League Results - Fri 26th December 2008

Stoke City 0-1 Man Utd
Chelsea 2-0 WBA
Portsmouth 1-4 West Ham Utd
Tottenham 0-0 Fulham
Liverpool 3-0 Bolton
Manchester City 5-1 Hull City
Middlesbrough 0-1 Everton
Sunderland 0-0 Blackburn
Wigan Athletic 2-1 Newcastle

Barclays Premier League Fixtures - Fri 26th December 2008

2008-12-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

Barclays Premier League Fixtures - Fri 26th December 2008

Stoke City v Man Utd 12:45
Chelsea v WBA 13:00
Portsmouth v West Ham Utd 13:00
Tottenham v Fulham 13:00
Liverpool v Bolton 15:00
Manchester City v Hull City 15:00
Middlesbrough v Everton 15:00
Sunderland v Blackburn 15:00
Wigan Athletic v Newcastle 15:00
Aston Villa v Arsenal 17:15

Liverpool 1 - 1 Arsenal

2008-12-23T10:42:00.000-08:00

Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool
Barclays Premier League leaders Liverpool fought back to take a 1-1 draw from a high-octane match with Arsenal.

Robin van Persie had fired the Gunners ahead with a fine strike on 24 minutes, only for former Tottenham Hotspur striker Robbie Keane to equalise.

Adebayor was shown a second yellow card by referee Howard Webb on the hour mark, and the Gunners had to settle for a draw which further dents their fading title aspirations.

Chelsea Draws with Everton

2008-12-23T10:33:00.000-08:00

Chelsea missed a chance to take top spot in English soccer’s Premier League after being held to a 0-0 draw by Everton today.

Chelsea played for 55 minutes with 10 men at Goodison Park after captain John Terry was shown a red card by referee Phil Dowd for a tackle on Leon Osman. The draw ended Chelsea’s record run of 12 straight away wins in the league.

“They were in a positive mood, the crowd was right behind them and it’s a tough place to come when you play with 11 men,” Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech told Setanta Sports. “We can be satisfied with the point.”

Chelsea, on 38 points, trails first-place Liverpool by one point. Aston Villa has 34, Manchester United, which has played two fewer matches, is on 32 points with Arsenal one point back. Everton, on 26 points, remains in seventh.

Terry’s 35th-minute lunge at Osman swung the momentum Everton’s way as Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari adjusted his lineup, moving John Mikel Obi from center midfield to the middle of defense.

At the beginning of the second half he brought on striker Didier Drogba for Nicolas Anelka and Serbian defender Branislav Ivanovic for Joe Cole. That allowed Mikel Obi to rejoin a four- man midfield in the England winger’s position and Deco to switch to the left side of the field outside Frank Lampard and Michael Ballack.

Cristiano Ronaldo Wins the Golden Ball

2008-12-02T11:08:00.000-08:00

When Cristiano Ronaldo said he was option 1, 2 and 3 for the Golden Ball award, he wasn't being cheeky; he was almost right. The Manchester United star won the European Footballer of the Year today in a vote so lopsided Barack Obama would've said daaaaaaamn.

Ronaldo _ the fourth Red Devil to win, and first since George Best in 1968 _ got 446 points, with Barcelona forward Lionel Messi (281) and Liverpool forward Fernando Torres (179) combining for just 460.

"It's one of the greatest days of my life. Winning this trophy ... I dreamed about it as a kid. Those who know me, who live with me, know that this is finally a dream come true for me,'' Ronaldo said in France Football. "I am only 23 and it's magnificent. Unbelievable. It's even better considering all the big names in contention this year. Lionel Messi is second and Fernando Torres is third, but also Xavi (Hernandez, in fifth place)."

Of course, now we'll still have to hear all about Ronaldo-to-Real rumors starting up again soon, but for the moment the best player on the planet resides in rainy northern England. What do you think of CR7 addiing the Ballon d'Or award to his FIFPro World Player of the Year trophy, his Professional Footballers Association and his Football Writers awards?

Barclays Premier League Fixtures

2008-11-09T11:40:00.000-08:00

Sat 15th November 2008
Bolton	v	Liverpool	12:45
Arsenal	v	Aston Villa	15:00
Blackburn	v	Sunderland	15:00
Fulham	v	Tottenham	15:00
Man Utd	v	Stoke City	15:00
Newcastle	v	Wigan Athletic	15:00
West Ham Utd	v	Portsmouth	15:00
WBA	v	Chelsea	17:30
Sun 16th November 2008
Everton	v	Middlesbrough	13:30
Hull City	v	Manchester City	16:00

Liverpool 3-0 West Bromwich Albion

2008-11-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

Liverpool 3-0 West Bromwich Albion

Two goals from Robbie Keane helped to secure a 3-0 win for Liverpool against West Bromwich Albion.

Keane gave Rafael Benitez his 150th victory as Liverpool manager as the Anfield club moved back to the top of the Barclays Premier League.

The striker, who had managed to score only twice previously since his summer move from Tottenham Hotspur - both in the Champions League - finally broke his league duck when he drove home from a Steven Gerrard pass in the 34th minute.

Keane's second came when he rounded Scott Carson a couple of minutes before the break and Alvaro Arbeloa added the gloss in injury time.

Arsenal beat Manchester United 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium

2008-11-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United

Arsenal beat Barclays Premier League champions Manchester United 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsene Wenger got the response he wanted as Arsenal bounced back from last week's defeat to Stoke City, with victory over United.

Gunners manager Wenger admitted dressing-room morale was low after their draw with rivals Tottenham Hotspur and defeat to Stoke - but Saturday's win breathes life into their campaign and lifts them above United in the Barclays Premier League table.

Goals from Samir Nasri provided the attacking threat, taking advantage of slack marking in each half to grab his fourth and fifth of the season.

Rafael da Silva, on as a substitute, volleyed home to give Sir Alex Ferguson's men hope, but it was not enough as Arsenal claimed the points.

Barclays Premier League Results - 8th & 9th November 2008

2008-11-09T11:35:00.001-08:00

Sun 9th November 2008
Blackburn	0-2	Chelsea	13:30	Report >
Aston Villa	1-2	Middlesbrough	15:00	Report >
Manchester City	1-2	Tottenham	15:00	Report >
Fulham	2-1	Newcastle	16:00
Sat 8th November 2008
Arsenal	2-1	Man Utd	12:45	Report >
Wigan Athletic	0-0	Stoke City	12:45	Report >
Hull City	0-1	Bolton	15:00	Report >
Sunderland	1-2	Portsmouth	15:00	Report >
West Ham Utd	1-3	Everton	15:00	Report >
Liverpool	3-0	WBA

Ten-Man Arsenal went Down to a 2-1 Defeat at Stoke City

2008-11-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

Stoke City 2-1 Arsenal

Ten-man Arsenal went down to a 2-1 defeat at Stoke City on Saturday afternoon.

Long-throw specialist Rory Delap continued his domination of Barclays Premier League defences, setting up both goals as Arsenal's season took another turn for the worst.

Delap found Ricardo Fuller after 11 minutes, then helped set up Seyi Olofinjana for the hosts' second before a deflected Gael Clichy effort reduced arrears.

It was a case of bad to worse for Arsenal after the dramatic 4-4 draw with Tottenham Hotspur in midweek and a red card for Robin van Persie, coupled with injuries to Emmanuel Adebayor and Theo Walcott made it a grim day indeed for Arsene Wenger.

Barclays Premier League Results - Saturday 1st November 2008

2008-11-01T11:37:00.000-07:00

Sat 1st November 2008
Everton	1-0	Fulham	12:45	Report >
Chelsea	5-0	Sunderland	15:00	Report >
Man Utd	4-3	Hull City	15:00	Report >
Middlesbrough	1-1	West Ham Utd	15:00	Report >
Portsmouth	1-2	Wigan Athletic	15:00	Report >
Stoke City	2-1	Arsenal	15:00	Report >
WBA	2-2	Blackburn

Football Referees to Host a Masterclass

2008-11-01T11:34:00.000-07:00

Steve Sidwell joined top referees Howard Webb and Chris Foy to host a masterclass.

The Aston Villa star joined the pair, who both officiate in the Barclays Premier League, at the Aston Park Barclays Spaces for Sports site where they put on a special session for local schoolchildren.

This Barclays grassroots event is the first of four regional events to promote the Premier League's 'Get on with the Game' programme.

Webb and Foy took 30 children aged 11-14 through a refereeing master class, whilst professional coaches took them through a coaching session to reinforce the Premier League's 'Get on with the Game' message. This was followed by a Q&A and autograph session with Sidwell and the referees.

Nicolas Anelka Scroed a Hatt-Trick to Defeat Sunderland 5-0

2008-11-01T11:28:00.000-07:00

Chelsea 5-0 Sunderland

Nicolas Anelka scored a hat-trick as Chelsea cut loose against Sunderland at Stamford Bridge.

Frank Lampard also netted to record the 100th league goal of his career.

Alex was the other Blues player to strike in a match which saw Sunderland manager Roy Keane sent to the stands after clashing with officials.

Manchester United Defeated Hull City 4-3

2008-11-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

Manchester United 4-3 Hull City

Manchester United survived a stirring late fightback from Hull City to edge a seven-goal thriller at Old Trafford.

United seemed set to stroll home when Nemanja Vidic put them 4-1 up just before the hour mark. United led 3-1 at the break with two goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and one from Michael Carrick while Hull pulled one back through Daniel Cousin.

But Bernard Mendy gave the Tigers fresh hope before Geovanni tucked home a penalty to leave Sir Alex Ferguson's men sweating.

Barclays Premier League Fixtures - 28th & 29th October 2008

2008-10-28T12:59:00.000-07:00

Tues 28th October 2008
Newcastle	v	WBA	19:45	Preview >
Weds 29th October 2008
Aston Villa	v	Blackburn	19:45	Preview >
Fulham	v	Wigan Athletic	19:45	Preview >
Hull City	v	Chelsea	19:45	Preview >
Stoke City	v	Sunderland	19:45	Preview >
Arsenal	v	Tottenham	20:00	Preview >
Bolton	v	Everton	20:00	Preview >
Liverpool	v	Portsmouth	20:00	Preview >
Man Utd	v	West Ham Utd	20:00	Preview >
Middlesbrough	v	Manchester City	20:00

Tony Adams Appointed Portsmouth Manager

2008-10-28T12:56:00.000-07:00

Former Arsenal and England defender Tony Adams has been named as the new manager of Portsmouth.

Adams was in temporary charge alongside Joe Jordan for Sunday's 1-1 draw with Fulham following the departure of Harry Redknapp.

And on Tuesday the 42-year-old was given the top job at Fratton Park, with Wednesday's match at Liverpool his first test as an English top-flight manager.

Peter Storrie, who has become executive chairman at Fratton Park, confirmed the appointment and revealed Adams had been given a two-year contract.

He continued: "It's been a bit of a whirlwind 48 hours.

"I know we said we'd take our time a little bit but we had a think about it, had a chat with Tony and we feel he's done a tremendous job here and thoroughly deserves this opportunity to manage the club.

"He's not only popular among the board and people working at the club, but as was shown on Sunday, it's a popular

FIFPro World XI Player Awards 2007 - 2008

2008-10-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

FIFPro World XI Player Awards 2007 - 2008

Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas (Spain/Real Madrid)

Defenders: Sergio Ramos (Spain/Real Madrid); John Terry (England/Chelsea); Carles Puyol (Spain/ Barcelona); Rio Ferdinand (England/Manchester United)

Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (England/Liverpool); Xavi (Spain/Barcelona); Kaka (Brazil/AC Milan).

Forwards: Lionel Messi (Argentina/Barcelona); Fernando Torres (Spain/Liverpool); Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal/Manchester United)

Cristiano Ronaldo Named FIFPro World Player of the Year

2008-10-27T13:06:00.000-07:00

Manchester United and Portugal goal ace Cristiano Ronaldo was named FIFPro World Player of the Year on Tuesday.

The international players' union, which has 57,500 members, announced on Monday that the Manchester United winger, who scored 42 goals last season when the Red Devils won both the Champions League and Premier League, had topped their poll. The honour, voted by professional footballers from all over the world, was widely expected to be awarded to the winger after he scored 42 goals for United last season.

"To be recognised by my fellow professional players worldwide coming from over 50,000 players is amazing," the 23-year-old, who beat 54 other world class players to the title said. "I would like to thank my teammates and coaches and everyone involved at Man United and the national team, as well as my family and friends for their support," Ronaldo said. "Thank you also to FIFPro for this award and for your work in protecting the interests and welfare of players around the world."

Ronaldo was also named in the FifPro team alongside United team-mate Rio Ferdinand.

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Chelsea and England captain John Terry also made the team, as did AC Milan's midfielder Kaka and Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

Ronaldo, who helped his club to a Premier League and Champions League double last season, is also a strong contender to win the FIFA World Player of the Year award and the Ballon d'Or.

Robinho's Hat-Trick Tore Stoke City Apart

2008-10-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

Manchester City 3-0 Stoke City

British record signing Robinho completed his first Manchester City hat-trick to take Stoke City apart.

The £32.5m Brazilian opened his account after just 14 minutes, then added another from Daniel Sturridge's excellent pass just after the re-start.

But he saved the best until last, finishing off a flowing four-pass move 17 minutes from the end with a clinical finish past Thomas Sorensen.

Liverpool Defeated Chelsea 1 - 0

2008-10-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

Chelsea 0-1 Liverpool

Liverpool surged three points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League with a 1-0 victory at Chelsea.

Xabi Alonso scored the only goal of the match when his ninth-minute shot was deflected beyond goalkeeper Petr Cech by Blues full-back Jose Bosingwa.

The result ended Chelsea's incredible 86-match unbeaten home league record in the Premier League.

Barclays Premier League Results

2008-10-25T12:22:00.000-07:00

Sat 25th October 2008
Everton	1-1	Man Utd	12:00	Report >
Sunderland	2-1	Newcastle	12:45	Report >
WBA	0-3	Hull City	15:00	Report >
Mon 20th October 2008
Newcastle	2-2	Manchester City

Barclays Premier League Results

2008-10-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

Mon 20th October 2008
Newcastle	2-2	Manchester City	20:00	Report >
Sun 19th October 2008
Hull City	1-0	West Ham Utd	15:00	Report >
Stoke City	2-1	Tottenham

Barclays Premier League Fixtures - 25th & 26th October 2008

2008-10-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

Sat 25th October 2008
Everton	v	Man Utd	12:00
Sunderland	v	Newcastle	12:45
WBA	v	Hull City	15:00
Blackburn	v	Middlesbrough	17:30
Sun 26th October 2008
Chelsea	v	Liverpool	13:30
Manchester City	v	Stoke City	15:00
Tottenham	v	Bolton	15:00
Wigan Athletic	v	Aston Villa	15:00
West Ham Utd	v	Arsenal	16:00
Portsmouth	v	Fulham	17:00

Manchester United 4-0 West Bromwich Albion

2008-10-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

Manchester United were convincing winners against West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford.

Wayne Rooney took his tally to eight goals in six matches to set United on their way to victory.

Rooney had already seen a first-half effort disallowed for a push on Gianni Zuiverloon when he broke the Baggies' resistance with an excellent solo effort 11 minutes after the re-start.

He then set up Cristiano Ronaldo for a second before Dimitar Berbatov wrapped up a productive 15-minute period and substitute Nani completed the scoring at the end.

Barclays English Premier League Results - Sat 18th October 2008

2008-10-18T12:16:00.000-07:00

Sat 18th October 2008
Middlesbrough	0-5	Chelsea	12:45	Report >
Arsenal	3-1	Everton	15:00	Report >
Aston Villa	0-0	Portsmouth	15:00	Report >
Bolton	0-0	Blackburn	15:00	Report >
Fulham	0-0	Sunderland	15:00	Report >
Liverpool	3-2	Wigan Athletic	15:00	Report >
Man Utd	4-0	WBA

2010 World Cup Qualifying Results - 15th October 2008

2008-10-16T12:05:00.001-07:00

Tehran	Iran	2:1 (1:0)	Korea DPR
Asuncion	Paraguay	1:0 (0:0)	Peru
Teplice	Czech Republic	1:0 (0:0)	Slovenia
Reykjavik	Iceland	1:0 (1:0)	Macedonia FYR
Riga	Latvia	1:1 (0:0)	Israel
Moscow	Russia	3:0 (1:0)	Finland
Kaunas	Lithuania	1:0 (1:0)	Faroe Islands
Oslo	Norway	0:1 (0:0)	Netherlands
Kingston	Jamaica	1:0 (1:0)	Honduras
Edmonton	Canada	2:2 (1:1)	Mexico
Ta'Qali	Malta	0:1 (0:1)	Hungary
Brisbane	Australia	4:0 (2:0)	Qatar
Saitama	Japan	1:1 (1:1)	Uzbekistan
Belfast	Northern Ireland	4:0 (2:0)	San Marino
Dublin	Ireland Republic	1:0 (1:0)	Cyprus
Seoul	Korea Republic	4:1 (2:0)	United Arab Emirates
Havana	Cuba	2:1 (1:0)	Guatemala
San Jose	Costa Rica	2:0 (1:0)	Haiti
San Salvador	El Salvador	3:0 (2:0)	Suriname
Port Of Spain	Trinidad and Tobago	2:1 (0:0)	USA
Santiago De Chile	Chile	1:0 (1:0)	Argentina
Luxembourg	Luxembourg	0:0	Moldova
Zenica	Bosnia-Herzegovina	4:1 (2:0)	Armenia
Zagreb	Croatia	4:0 (2:0)	Andorra
Puerto La Cruz	Venezuela	3:1 (0:1)	Ecuador
Bratislava	Slovakia	2:1 (0:0)	Poland
Vienna	Austria	1:3 (0:3)	Serbia
Tbilisi	Georgia	0:0	Bulgaria
Braga	Portugal	0:0	Albania
Moenchengladbach	Germany	1:0 (0:0)	Wales
Brussels	Belgium	1:2 (1:1)	Spain
Lecce	Italy	2:1 (2:1)	Montenegro
Piraeus	Greece	1:2 (0:1)	Switzerland
Tallinn	Estonia	0:0	Turkey
Minsk	Belarus	1:3 (1:1)	England
Rio De Janeiro	Brazil	0:0	Colombia

Former Blackburn Rovers Defender Stephane Henchoz Announces Retirement

2008-10-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

Former Blackburn Rovers defender Stephane Henchoz has announced his retirement from football.

The 34-year-old has been without a club since his contract with Barclays Premier League side Blackburn expired at the end of last season. He now intends to study for his coaching badge.

Henchoz, who began his career in 1992 with Neuchatel Xamax, represented Switzerland on 72 occasions and enjoyed a successful period with Liverpool, whom he joined from Blackburn in 1999.

He won the UEFA Cup, FA Cup and League Cup in 2001, going on to make 205 appearances for the Reds.

Spells with Celtic and Wigan Athletic followed before a return to Blackburn, his final club as a professional footballer.

"The Language of Football is Universal," - Robinho

2008-10-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

Robinho is looking to impress with his language as well as his football skills by the end of the current campaign.

Although he wants to learn English as quickly as possible, so he can fully communicate with his Manchester City team-mates, the native Portuguese speaker does not think it has restricted him on the pitch so far.

"The language of football is universal," said Robinho. "You don't need to speak the lingo in order to be able to communicate with a football.

"Myself and the other players already have a good understanding. Sometimes in training when I shout something they think it's funny but they understand me."

He has flown his wife and baby son over from Brazil and is currently house-hunting in the North West but has been struck by Manchester which he describes as 'beautiful'.

"I am enjoying Manchester, Elano took me for a city tour and I loved it," he continued.

"I haven't started language lessons yet but as soon as I find my own place I will. In six months' time my English will be 10 out of 10."

Of his positive first impressions of Manchester, Robinho added: "There are fine restaurants and recreational facilities, and the city is beautiful. In fact there is a great Brazilian restaurant in the city centre, I'm sure to be a regular."

The Brazilian has also been struck by the friendliness of Mancunians, adding: "Since I've been in Manchester people recognise me all the time in the city, and have been very kind to me.

"They are saying really nice things and that is always a motivation for a player. My aim is to repay their kindness by playing well and winning matches."

Aston Villa Winger Ashley Young Named Barclays Player of the Month

2008-10-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

Aston Villa winger Ashley Young has scooped the Barclays Player of the Month Award for September.

Young added to his award from April 2008 following a sterling September, in which he scored twice and contributed a further two assists.

After setting up one goal and firing the decisive second in Villa's 2-1 away win at Tottenham Hotspur, he followed this up with another assist in the 2-1 derby victory over West Bromwich Albion.

Young completed the month by hitting the back of the net with a 20-yard free-kick that proved the catalyst for a narrow win over Sunderland at Villa Park.

Villa's three successive league victories during the month saw Martin O'Neill's men continue their surge up the Barclays Premier League table, ending September well placed in fourth.

Young joins an elite band of players including Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard, who have won the Barclays Player of the Month Award on more than one occasion.

The decision was made by the Barclays Awards Panel, which includes representatives from football's governing bodies, the media and fans.

Hull City Manager Phil Brown Scoops Manager of The Month Award

2008-10-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

Phil Brown, manager of newly-promoted Hull City, has been named the Barclays Manager of the Month for September.

It is the first such award for the club as they embark on their first-ever season in the top flight.

The Tigers defied the odds to bounce back from a 5-0 home defeat to Wigan Athletic, to start September in fine style, recording a deserved 2-1 win at Newcastle United as Marlon King scored his first goals for the club.

Brown's men took a valuable point from the home match with Everton, before following this up with a famous 2-1 win away at Arsenal.

The Emirates Stadium was left stunned as a 25-yard Geovanni strike and a Daniel Cousin glancing header saw Hull inflict a first home defeat of the season on the Gunners.

By the end of September, Brown had steered the Tigers to sixth place in the Barclays Premier League having guided his side to victory in the Championship play-off final last May.

The decision was made by the Barclays Awards Panel, which includes representatives from football's governing bodies, the media and fans.

Barclays Premier League Fixtures - 18th & 19th October 2008

2008-10-05T23:28:00.000-07:00

Sat 18th October 2008
Middlesbrough	v	Chelsea	12:45
Arsenal	v	Everton	15:00
Aston Villa	v	Portsmouth	15:00
Bolton	v	Blackburn	15:00
Fulham	v	Sunderland	15:00
Liverpool	v	Wigan Athletic	15:00
Man Utd	v	WBA	17:30
Sun 19th October 2008
Hull City	v	West Ham Utd	15:00
Stoke City	v	Tottenham	16:00

Chelsea's Title Challenge Continues

2008-10-05T23:21:00.000-07:00

Chelsea 2-0 Aston Villa

Chelsea's title challenge continues apace, with Aston Villa the latest to be swept aside at Stamford Bridge.

First-half goals from Joe Cole and Nicolas Anelka kept Luiz Felipe Scolari's men at the top of the Barclays Premier League, and it could have been more but for the reflexes of Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel.

Luiz Felipe Scolari may have an injury crisis on his hands but Chelsea's title challenge continues apace, with Aston Villa the latest to be swept aside at Stamford Bridge.

First-half goals from Joe Cole and Nicolas Anelka kept Scolari's men at the top of the Barclays Premier League, and it could have been more but for the reflexes of Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel.

The hosts, already without the services of Didier Drogba, Deco, Ricardo Carvalho and Michael Essien, were missing Alex from their starting line-up and then saw midfielder Cole limp off.

Anelka, struggling with muscle spasms before the match, was also taken off at the break meaning Franco di Santo was Scolari's frontline striker for 45 minutes.

It mattered little. Scolari had never met Martin O'Neill before and had spoken of his admiration for the teams the Villa manager has produced - but this crop simply had no chance as Chelsea gave them a first-half masterclass in passing and movement.

Villa had been billed as the team to put pressure on Chelsea's unbeaten home league record, with the pace of Gabriel Agbonlahor and Ashley Young enough to trouble most sides.

As it was, Branislav Ivanovic went untroubled on his league debut as most of the action was ahead of him.

John Terry, partnering the Serbian in central defence, said before the match that he wanted to play even if it was on one leg - and he probably could have done that in the first half, such was Chelsea's dominance.

Liverpool Defeated Manchester City 3 - 2

2008-10-05T23:12:00.000-07:00

Dirk Kuyt scored his first Barclays Premier League goal since November to secure a dramatic victory for Liverpool.

The Holland striker rattled the ball home in stoppage time to stun 10-man Manchester City.

The home side had raced into a two-goal lead in the first half through Stephen Ireland and Javier Garrido.

Fernando Torres pulled a goal back before City's Pablo Zabaleta was sent off.

The momentum was then with Liverpool with Torres adding a second before Kuyt had the final word.

“I’m really pleased with the result, though I’m disappointed for Martin with his injury,” Benítez said afterwards. “The positive thing was the reaction of the players after a bad first half. We made two mistakes for both goals, but the reaction and character we showed in the second half was key to winning the game. It is better for me if we don’t concede those goals, but if you can win, it shows that the players are ready to win every game. Physically we are in good condition, so credit to our fitness coach. We also have great belief and mentality.”

“We had spoken at half-time about the likely response of Liverpool,” Hughes said. “We needed to be ready for it and we weren’t.”

Barclays Premier League Results - 4th & 5th October 2008

2008-10-05T23:08:00.000-07:00

Sun 5th October 2008
West Ham Utd	1-3	Bolton	13:30	Report >
Chelsea	2-0	Aston Villa	15:00	Report >
Manchester City	2-3	Liverpool	15:00	Report >
Portsmouth	2-1	Stoke City	15:00	Report >
Tottenham	0-1	Hull City	15:00	Report >
Everton	2-2	Newcastle	16:00	Report >
Sat 4th October 2008
Sunderland	1-1	Arsenal	15:00	Report >
WBA	1-0	Fulham	15:00	Report >
Wigan Athletic	0-1	Middlesbrough	15:00	Report >
Blackburn	0-2	Man Utd

Wigan Athletic 0 - 1 Middlesbrough

2008-10-04T11:00:00.000-07:00

Wigan Athletic 0-1 Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough scored late on to take all three points at the JJB Stadium.

Jeremie Aliadiere snatched victory for Middlesbrough at Wigan Athletic with a goal in the 89th minute.

A match of very few chances appeared to be drifting to a goalless conclusion when Stewart Downing nodded down a right-wing cross on the edge of the penalty area and the Frenchman fired home.

Sunderland 1-1 Arsenal

2008-10-04T10:48:00.000-07:00

Arsenal left it late to earn a point at the Stadium of Light on Saturday afternoon.

Arsenal's bid to go top of the Barclays Premier League foundered at Sunderland but they were lucky to escape defeat as Cesc Fabregas' 93rd-minute header salvaged a 1-1 draw.

Having been beaten by Hull City last week, the Gunners have now dropped five points in two matches.

Arsene Wenger's side appeared to have been beaten by Grant Leadbitter's stunning 86th-minute strike. The midfielder picked the ball up 25 yards out and smashed a shot in off the underside of the crossbar.

Spain midfielder Fabregas rescued the Gunners with a close-range header from a corner in the third minute of added time.

Barclays Premier League Fixtures - 4th & 5th October 2008

2008-10-02T11:53:00.000-07:00

Sat 4th October 2008
Sunderland	v	Arsenal	15:00
WBA	v	Fulham	15:00
Wigan Athletic	v	Middlesbrough	15:00
Blackburn	v	Man Utd	17:30
Sun 5th October 2008
West Ham Utd	v	Bolton	13:30
Chelsea	v	Aston Villa	15:00
Manchester City	v	Liverpool	15:00
Portsmouth	v	Stoke City	15:00
Tottenham	v	Hull City	15:00
Everton	v	Newcastle	16:00

Texas Businessman Ellis Short Buys Stake in Sunderland

2008-09-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

Texas businessman Ellis Short bought a significant stake in Sunderland, the English Premier League told The Associated Press on Friday.

Short is co-founder of Dallas-based private equity group Lone Star Funds. In August, he acquired more than 30 percent of the consortium that owns the club in northeast England.

Premier League clubs Manchester United, Liverpool, Aston Villa are also owned by Americans.

League spokesman Dan Johnson said Short has bought a stake above 30 percent. If he is deemed not suitable as an owner, he will have to take his investment below 30 percent. Britain's Daily Telegraph said Short is now the biggest shareholder.

"Sunderland AFC is unable to comment on any matters relating to the Drumaville Consortium or investment in the club except to thank them for their continued support," the club said.

The eight-person Drumaville company, chaired by former Sunderland striker Niall Quinn, bought Sunderland in 2006 for $18.4 million.

Members of the mainly Irish consortium contacted by the AP refused to comment, as did people connected with Short in the United States. Short has had no previous involvement in the sports industry.

Prosecutors in South Korea last year issued arrest warrants for Short on allegations of stock manipulation and tax evasion over the sale of Korea Exchange Bank to Lone Star Funds, of which he was vice chairman. No charges were brought.

Luiz Felipe Scolari Praises England Football

2008-09-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

In an interview broadcast by Brazil's Globo TV on Sunday, Scolari praised the Premier League, saying the quality of English clubs puts it on a different level when compared to all other national leagues around the world.

"It is the best championship in the world right now, in all aspects," the Brazilian said.

Scolari said no other can match the Premier league when it comes to the clubs' structure and financial situation.

"All clubs are very well organized," he said.

Scolari also said he feels very comfortable coaching in England, and that he has adapted well to the country's language and way of life.

"All fears I had before are gone," he said.

The coach said he was not disappointed when Robinho failed to reach an agreement to play for Chelsea, saying it's "part of the profession." He said the Brazil striker may have been influenced by other people to skip Chelsea and accept the better financial offer from Man City.

"It's a situation that the coach or the club cannot control," Scolari said. "People around the athletes, sometimes for their own benefit, end up indicating a path that maybe is not the best for them."

In the interview, Scolari also said he does not discard the possibility of returning to the Brazilian national team, and that current coach Dunga should maintain his philosophy despite increased criticism from local media and fans after a series of disappointing results, which included a 0-0 draw against Bolivia in a World Cup qualifier.

Scolari said he wants to coach for the next five years or so, and then maybe pick another career connected to football.

Barclays Premier League Results - Sun 28th September 2008

2008-09-28T23:16:00.000-07:00

Sun 28th September 2008
Portsmouth	2-0	Tottenham	13:30	Report >
Wigan Athletic	2-1	Manchester City

Hull City Defeated Arsenal 2 - 1

2008-09-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hull City registered their first historic win against Arsenal in a exciting Premier League Match. The win did really make them proud. Beating a team like Arsenal who is standing at the top of the points table, is something the entire team is going to cherish for a long time.

Fernando Torres Scored Twice to Give Liverpool 2-0 Victory over Everton

2008-09-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

Everton 0-2 Liverpool

Fernando Torres scored twice to give Liverpool a deserved victory over Everton in the 208th Merseyside derby.

The first half had been a stalemate with few chances, but Torres struck twice in three minutes during the second period to maintain Liverpool's unbeaten start to the season.

Everton lost Tim Cahill late on when the Australian received a straight red card for a late tackle on Xabi Alonso.

Everton should have been ahead after 14 minutes when Tim Cahill failed to make decent contact with an Arteta corner from just six yards.

Joseph Yobo blocked a shot on the turn by Torres and Cahill saw a glancing header go wide at the other end.

Everton were content to commit just Ayegbeni Yakubu up front, with Mikel Arteta and Cahill attacking from deep. It meant that Liverpool had the majority of possession as Everton sat back and tried to hit them on the break.

After 26 minutes Joleon Lescott's cross was dropped by Jose Reina under minimal pressure from Fellaini, who spun to strike a fierce shot that Jamie Carragher somehow blocked on the line.

But referee Riley had spotted some sort of infringement, unseen by Everton eyes, and awarded a free-kick. The tempo had now risen a few notches, with Everton at last fired up.

Manchester United 2-0 Bolton Wanderers

2008-09-27T11:09:00.000-07:00

Manchester United gained their first Premier League home win of the season with a 2-0 defeat of Bolton that left their neighbours nursing a sense of injustice.

Cristiano Ronaldo's opener left a sour taste for the Trotters as referee Rob Styles gave the hosts a penalty after Jlloyd Samuel played the ball when he slid into Ronaldo just before the hour mark.

Substitute Wayne Rooney also found the net for the first time this season, curling home after exchanging passes with Ronaldo. Bolton boss Gary Megson will know his side were frustrating their hosts until Styles' intervention.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson started with Rooney on the bench and Dimitar Berbatov and Carlos Tevez up front, but - while Tevez and Berbatov tried hard - there was no sense of a partnership between them.

The only time they were involved in anything meaningful was when they helped set up Rio Ferdinand. But the centre-half bounced his half-volley straight at Jaaskelainen.

Bolton's Fabrice Muamba was presented with the best opportunity either side had to break the first-half deadlock. He ought to have forced Edwin van der Sar into a save when Gretar Rafn Steinsson's low cross rolled into his path after Ferdinand had slid in with Kevin Davies at the near post.

But from 10 yards, the England Under-21 international was so off target his shot nearly rolled out for a throw-in.

Ferguson must have felt a bit sheepish when Styles watched Samuel what looked a perfectly timed tackle on Ronaldo, then pointed to the spot. Ronaldo stepped up and sent Jaaskelainen the wrong way.

The introduction of Rooney and Paul Scholes came not long afterwards and Rooney curled a shot into the bottom corner after a neat exchange of passes with Ronaldo 13 minutes from time.

Barclays Premier League Results - Sat 27th September 2008

2008-09-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

Sat 27th September 2008
Everton	0-2	Liverpool	12:45	Report >
Aston Villa	2-1	Sunderland	15:00	Report >
Fulham	1-2	West Ham Utd	15:00
Man Utd	2-0	Bolton	15:00
Middlesbrough	0-1	WBA	15:00
Newcastle	1-2	Blackburn	15:00	Report >
Stoke City	0-2	Chelsea

West Ham Chief Scott Duxbury could Face Premier League Inquiry

2008-09-25T12:25:00.000-07:00

Duxbury has been accused of providing verbal reassurances to Graham Shear, Kia Joorabchian's solicitor, suggesting that the club would honour the third party agreement which was supposedly terminated so that the Argentine could continue playing.

The tribunal believes that the league would have suspended Tevez's registration as a West Ham player had they been aware of the conversations between Duxbury and Shear.

The league are well aware of the potential ramifications of the allegation, notably that, if substantiated, West Ham could stand accused of misleading them even after being fined £5.5 million for rule breaches by an independent disciplinary commission.

The Premier League expect to receive the tribunal's findings within the next 48 hours and will decide whether to take further action against Duxbury – or indeed West Ham – once they have digested the findings.

Having facilitated the independent arbitration panel, the Football Association are largely remaining out of the latest twist in the Tevez saga, arguing that it is for Lord Griffiths, the chairman of the tribunal, to decide if and when the judgment is publicly released.

West Ham are already fighting the case on two fronts, with the club set to appeal the tribunal's ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, while also contesting the level of the £30.4 million compensation claim that Sheffield United are requesting.

They would surely also contest any further action against either themselves or Duxbury by the Premier League.

West Ham accept that they unilaterally terminated the third party agreements and that they had conversations with Joorabchian and Shear.

However, they would argue that it was always resolved to settle the matter at the end of the season – and probably out of court – which eventually happened when Joorabchian paid West Ham £2 million to release Tevez's registration and so eventually ensure his move to Manchester United.

West Ham have insisted that Duxbury’s position is not under review.

Chris Brunt and Abdoulaye Meiten of West Bromwich Albion Out for Weeks

2008-09-24T12:03:00.000-07:00

Double blow for West Brom

West Bromwich Albion are set to be without Chris Brunt and Abdoulaye Meite for at least the next two weeks.

Brunt limped off in the defeat to Aston Villa with a hamstring problem and will be out for up to a month.

Meite, who arrived from Bolton Wanderers in the summer, suffered a recurrence of an old calf injury in the warm-up to the derby on Sunday.

"They both had scans yesterday," manager Tony Mowbray told the club's official website.

"Brunt has a grade one strain of his hamstring and will be out for three to four weeks.

EPL Dismisses Portsmouth Ownership by Arkadi Gaydamak Speculation

2008-09-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

The English Premier League has dismissed suggestions that Portsmouth are effectively controlled by Arkadi Gaydamak, father of the club's owner Alexandre.

Newspaper reports in Israel had claimed that Israel-based Arkadi Gaydamak, the subject of an arrest warrant by French authorities, was effectively in charge at Fratton Park.

But the EPL said in a statement that it had no reason to question Alexandre Gaydamak's ownership of the club.

"In response to recent press speculation regarding the ownership of Portsmouth Football Club, the Premier League can confirm that it has re-examined the current position, found there to be no variance with information already on record and therefore is able to re-confirm that Alexandre Gaydamak is the ultimate beneficial owner of Portsmouth Football Club," the EPL said in a statement.

The question of Gaydamak senior being effectively in charge is an issue because the EPL requires that club owners and directs pass a "fit and proper persons" test.

Arkadi Gaydamak, the owner of Israeli champions Beitar Jerusalem, has been the subject of an arrest warrant by French authorities keen to question him in connection with allegedly illicit arms trading to Angola during the 1990s.

A Portsmouth spokesman had earlier dismissed suggestions that Alexandre Gaydamak was no more than a puppet of his father.

"We are a little surprised that this issue has come up again because Alexandre Gaydamak owns the club 100 percent and nothing has changed," the spokesman said.

Chelsea sign Midfielder Mineiro

2008-09-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has bolstered his squad by signing Mineiro until the end of the season.

The 33-year-old, who has won 24 caps for Brazil, was a free agent having been released by Hertha Berlin at the end of last season.

Chelsea have been short of defensive midfield cover with Claude Makelele having left the club in the summer and Michael Essien sidelined with a serious knee injury.

"He is a player that I need because I lost Michael Essien for six months. I have one midfielder like him, (John Obi) Mikel," Scolari told the club's official website.

"So this week he will not play but maybe after 15 days to two weeks, he is ready to play normal games. He needs to play some games in the reserve team, and for me it is very good because I have one more player in this position. If not I have to put in (Juliano) Belletti or Paulo) Ferreira, or (Michael) Ballack, and they are not for this position. I say to fans of Chelsea, if they remember Makelele, Mineiro is the same. Good positionally, a very good marker. He is a man that works for the other players and he is also a good man outside of the pitch."

Ricardo Carvalho Sidelined with Knee Problem

2008-09-22T12:10:00.000-07:00

Ricardo Carvalho's knee injury could rule him out for up to a month of Chelsea's Barclays Premier League title challenge.

The 30-year-old suffered medial collateral ligament damage during the 1-1 draw with Manchester United and he was taken off in the 12th minute of the match at Stamford Bridge, with medical staff estimating the problem will lead to between three and four weeks on the sidelines.

Fellow Portugal international Deco also sustained a tear in his thigh during the warm-up and will be out for a fortnight.

The blow of losing Deco will be softened by the imminent arrival of Brazil midfielder Mineiro as a free agent. The 33-year-old will provide cover for John Obi Mikel in a holding role, with Michael Essien already out for six months.

Despite a solid performance from Alex after coming off the bench against United, it is Carvalho's loss that could be most significant for boss Luiz Felipe Scolari, such is the importance of the centre-back.

"He is a player that is very fast and he smells when the ball is coming," said Scolari. "He can read where the ball is going to be and go."

The former Porto defender could return after the next international break and could make the Champions League tie against Roma or the Barclays Premier League match against Liverpool if he takes the full month.

Hull City Signed Bolton Wanderers Midfielder Stelios Giannakopoulos

2008-09-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

Hull City have signed former Bolton Wanderers midfielder Stelios Giannakopoulos. The 34-year-old Greek player scored 20 goals in 137 appearances for Bolton since signing from Olympiakos in May 2003.

However he has been without a club since leaving the Reebok during the summer. He had been training with Hull as a free agent and now joins Phil Brown's Barclays Premier League side on a permanent contract after agreeing personal terms. He has signed until the end of the season however that could be extended if the move works out.

He told the offical club web site: "I'm very, very pleased to be a Hull City player. My main target and my dream was to stay in England and to stay in the Premier League and Hull City have given me the chance to make my dream come true. I am not new to the Premier League. I have been playing in this division for the last five years with Bolton, but I have come to Hull City to make a new start and take another step in my career. I have ambitions and I have dreams. I want to help Hull City with all of the strength that I have."

The former Bolton midfielder admits the opportunity to work alongside Phil Brown once again was a major factor in his decision to move to East Yorkshire and he says he owes a debt of gratitude to Brown and City Chairman Paul Duffen.

"Myself and the gaffer have known each other ever since I arrived in England and we have a very good relationship. At this point, I would like to thank the gaffer and the chairman for offering me this deal. If those two were not here, maybe I wouldn't have signed. The Club is already high in the table and I wish for this place in the table to remain and maybe get better in the future. There is ambition here and a very nice, loud crowd. The team tries to play attractive football and that is one of the reasons I came here."

Barclyas Premier League Fixtures - 27th & 28th September 2008

2008-09-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

Sat 27th September 2008
Everton	v	Liverpool	12:45
Fulham	v	West Ham Utd	15:00
Man Utd	v	Bolton	15:00
Middlesbrough	v	WBA	15:00
Newcastle	v	Blackburn	15:00
Stoke City	v	Chelsea	15:00
Arsenal	v	Hull City	17:30
Sun 28th September 2008
Portsmouth	v	Tottenham	13:30
Wigan Athletic	v	Manchester City	16:00

Barclays Premier League Results - Sun 21st September 2008

2008-09-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

Sun 21st September 2008
WBA	1-2	Aston Villa	12:00	Report >
Chelsea	1-1	Man Utd	14:00	Report >
Hull City	2-2	Everton	15:00	Report >
Manchester City	6-0	Portsmouth	15:00	Report >
Tottenham	0-0	Wigan Athletic

Chelsea Ready to Sign Brazil Midfielder Mineiro

2008-09-21T11:55:00.000-07:00

Chelsea are set to sign veteran Brazil midfielder Mineiro on a free transfer.

The 33-year-old has been without a club since leaving German side Hertha Berlin at the end of last season.

Mineiro had been linked with Arsenal and Birmingham, but now looks set to seal a move to Stamford Bridge within 24 hours after agreeing terms.

"Mineiro is a player I need because I lost Michael Essien for six months and only Jon Mikel Obi is there for us," said Blues boss Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Ghana midfielder Essien is out for around six months after suffering an anterior cruciate knee ligament injury while on World Cup qualifying duty.

Scolari will also be without Deco, who picked up a thigh injury in the warm-up before the 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Sunday.

Portuguese compatriot Ricardo Carvalho then damaged his knee during the game - and both will be assessed to determine the extent of the damage.

"He (Mineiro) won't play this week but maybe after 10 days he will play," Scolari added. He needs to play in the reserve team and needs some time but that is good for me because he gives me some options. We would miss Deco, it would not be good news. But it's hard to say at the moment (how bad the injury is)."

Chelsea Held Manchester United 1 - 1

2008-09-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

English premiership giants Manchester United were held to a one all draw by Chelsea on Sunday at the Stamford Bridge. Salomon Kalou scored late and Chelsea salvaged a 1-1 draw against Manchester United on Sunday, stretching the Blues' home unbeaten streak in the league to 85 games.

Ji-Sung Park put United ahead in the 18th minute after Chelsea keeper Petr Cech fumbled Dimitar Berbatov's shot. But Chelsea were building up a head of steam and it was no surprise when they drew level with 10 minutes left.

United lost keeper Edwin van der Sar to injury in the first half and Chelsea took control of a disjointed game.

Joe Cole and Nicolas Anelka wasted great chances before substitute Kalou headed in with ten minutes left.

It stretched Chelsea's unbeaten sequence in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge to 85 games, but Sir Alex Ferguson will be frustrated that his side failed to build on a perfect start and lost their way as the game went on.

Chelsea will be delighted and relieved with a point - but they should have claimed all three after dominating the second half.

United opted to keep Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench, where he was joined by Carlos Tevez as Berbatov and Wayne Rooney were paired up front.

Chelsea were forced into a reshuffle of their own when Deco injured a thigh in the warm-up, although they were hardly weakened by the subsequent inclusion of Michael Ballack.

It also keeps Luiz Felipe Scolari's men six points ahead of United in the early stages of the title race.

"We played with great tempo in the first 20 minutes - the real shame was that we didn't go for the jugular at 1-0 up.'' Ferguson said.

"We had control of the match at that point but we eased off and allowed them to get to half-time.''

Manchester City Dismantled Portsmouth 6 - 0

2008-09-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

Swaggering Manchester City turned on the style with a devastating display of attacking football to crush Portsmouth at a buoyant Eastlands. Robinho produced another captivating display to inspire Manchester City to a thumping 6-0 win over Portsmouth here Sunday.

With Khaldoon Al Mubarak watching, City ran in six goals as Portsmouth were unable to cope with a hugely impressive attacking display from Mark Hughes's side. Jo, Richard Dunne, Robinho, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Ched Evans and Gelson Fernandes each scored while David James, the Portsmouth goalkeeper, suffered a bad day at the office.

Robinho, making his second league appearance since joining from Real Madrid for a British record 32.5 million pounds, teed-up fellow Brazilian Jo to score his first goal in England's top-flight before finding the net himself.

City captain and Republic of Ireland defender Richard Dunne also got his name on the scoresheet before Shaun Wright-Phillips claimed his first goal since returning to the club for a second spell.

Substitute Ched Evans added to Portsmouth's embarrassment in the closing stages, the 19-year-old grabbing his first senior goal for the club. And there was still time for Gelson Fernandes, another substitute, to score.

Portsmouth, FA Cup winners in May, were expected to give Mark Hughes's side a stern test yet the south coast club were fortunate to escape a heavier defeat as City turned on the style with a display which suggests they could be top four contenders this season.

But it was Robinho's efforts which captivated the home fans at Eastlands.

As early as the third minute he forced former City keeper David James into a fine save before teeing-up Wright-Phillips to test the England international.

Portsmouth's nervous defence held out until the 13th minute when Robinho set Jo on his way, the former CSKA Moscow striker skipping past the advancing James before rolling the ball into the net with his left foot.

City doubled their advantage seven minutes later, Dunne tapping home his first Premier League goal since October 2006 after Elano's corner hit the bottom of the post.

Portsmouth created few chances yet former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch spurned a 28th minute opportunity to reduce the deficit after stabbing wide Glen Johnson's cross.

Sol Campbell thought he'd scored for the visitors in the closing stages of the first half but his header was hooked off the line by Pablo Zabaleta.

However, the second half belonged to the home side as Portsmouth conceded four more goals.

Robinho made it two league goals in as many appearances as he rounded off a delightful move involving the impressive Stephen Ireland and Jo by finding the net in the 56th minute.

Then Wright-Phillips sparked joyous scenes among City fans as he found the net for the first time since re-signing from Chelsea, the player beating James at the near post after a defence-splitting 68th minute pass by Ireland.

Pompey were shell-shocked yet their troubles were far from over. Evans, who had replaced Jo eight minutes earlier, made it 5-0 as he took advantage of more chaotic defending by the visitors in the 78th minute.

And five minutes later an error by James allowed Fernandes to wrap up a stunning victory for City.