McCulloch Hit With Three Game Ban

Wigan midfielder, Lee McCulloch has been banned for three games by the FA today after he admitted a charge of violence. The incident occured during Wigan's home encounter with Sheffield United on Saturday. TV camera's caught McCulloch punching United's captain Chris Morgan after the ball had been swung in for a corner.

The incident was not seen by the referee, Peter Walton, at the time. McCulloch apoligised later on to Morgan but the FA have decided to ban McCulloch for the next three games. The news will come as a blow to Wigan as the player has been a permanent fixture in the side and Wigan face some tricky ties during the Christmas period including matches against the Premiership's top two clubs, Man United and Chelsea.

Morgan who suffered a black has already said that he has accepted McCulloch's apoligy . "Lee was man enough to come and knock on the door, put his arm round me and apologise," said the United skipper. "That's enough for me. That's it. It's finished. Let's get on with it. "We're all sportsmen. We're going to get knocks and black eyes. It is part and parcel of the game."

Liverpool V Arsenal - OFF

The Carling Cup quater final between Liverpool and Arsenal has been called off due to heavy fog. The match was due to take place at 7:45 tonight but referee Martin Atkinson called a pitch inspection at 6:15 and stated that if the fog didn't deteriorate and more in the next half hour then the match could go ahead, but unfortunately things got worse and the match has been called off.

Sunderland get busy on D-Day

Sunderland have today been busy on this the last day of the summer transfer window. They have completed the signing of former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke from Sydney FC for a fee of £200,000 and of course this is new Sunderland boss, Roy Keane first signing as a manager. The player completed a medical earlier today and he was happy to meet back up with his former Man United team mate Roy Keane.

The pair spent four years together at Old Trafford and helped the club to win the treble in 1999 but Yorke left the club in 2002. Sunderland have also signed Graham Kavanagh from Wigan today for a fee of £500,000. The Irish international joined Wigan in 2005 from Cardiff and has helped Wigan gain promotion to the Premiership but he has now decided to team up with his former international partner Roy Keane.

Sunderland may also complete the signing of Manchester United midfielder Liam Miller by the end of the night. The player has been frozen out of the first team at United ever since his move from Celtic two seasons ago and I have to say that it would do the player the world of good if he joined Sunderland.

Cole moves South

Andy Cole has today signed for in form Premiership side Portsmouth for a fee that is believed to be about half a million pounds. Portsmouth have signed the player from Manchester City and the player has signed a two year contract for the South Coast club. He is the second player to make this same move in the last few weeks after for City keeper David James also moved to Pompey.

"It's an opportunity for me to play for another two years and I hope to do my best for Portsmouth football club, score a few goals and get the club into the top ten which is what they're aiming to do this season," Cole told his new club's website. Cole says that he is looking forward to joining up with former team mates at Fratton Park.

"I know Jamo (David James), I know Sol (Campbell) and I've played with David Thompson as well which is always important when you come to a new club because you can fit in straight away. "I know the club are trying to push forward, buying players and trying to start something new and I want to be a part of that."

Spurs capture Steed

Tottenham have today completed the signing of Steed Malbranque from their London rivals Fulham. The fee is undisclosed and Tottenham have agreed to let Wayne Routledge go in the other direction. The Frenchman hasn't played at all for Fulham this season because of the player refusing to sign a new contract at Craven Cottage and wasn't even given a squad number this season.

Many clubs were said to be interested in the player including Portsmouth, Middlesbrough and Bolton but Tottenham have but Tottenham have scooped to sign a him much to the delight of Spurs boss Martin Jol.

"Steed is a skilful, versatile midfielder of real quality," Jol told the club's website. "He is a player we have always admired and we are delighted he has come to us, there were a number of other clubs interested. He is a player who can cover the left, centre and right midfield positions and will work well within our system."

Fantasy Football League

I would just like to inform people that I have created a new fantasy league on the premierleague.com website and if you would like to join just copy the codeat the bottom onto the page entitled "Leagues", but don't worry if you haven't yet created a team because you still can. Just go onto www.premierleague.com and follow the instructions (and by the way it's free as well)!

The code: 326801-114368

Premiership Predictions

In this post I will give my predictions for the new Premiership season and I will tell you who I think is each individual team's key player and I would like to know your views on wheter or not you agree or disagree with my assetment of how the season is going to go.

1st- Chelsea. Key Player- John Terry.
2nd- Liverpool. Key Player- Steven Gerrard.
3rd- Man United. Key Player- Michael Carrick.
4th- Arsenal. Key Player- Thierry Henry.
5th- Tottenham. Key Player- Dimtri Berbatov.
6th- Newcastle. Key Player- Scott Parker.
7th- Everton. Key Player- Andy Johnson.
8th- Man City. Key Player- Joey Barton.
9th- Blackburn. Key Player- Morten Gamst Pedersen.
10th- West Ham. Key Player- Anton Ferdinand.

11th- Portsmouth. Key Player- Gary O'Neil.
12th-Bolton. Key Player- Kevin Nolan.
13th- Middlesbrough. Key Player- Fabio Rochemback.
14th- Charlton. Key Player- Darren Bent.
15th- Aston Villa. Key Player- Gareth Barry.
16th- Watford. Key Player- Marlon King.
17th- Fulham. Key Player- Jimmy Bullard.
18th- Wigan. Key Player- Arjan De Zeeuw.
19th- Reading. Key Player- Steve Sidwell.
20th-Sheffield United. Key Player- Phil Jagielka.

Reds complete Kuyt move

Liverpool have today completed the signing of Dutch striker Dirk Kuyt after the 26 year-old signed a four-year deal at Anfield. The Reds agreed a fee for the much wanted striker on Thursday after weeks of talks with his club Feyernood. Newcastle and many other top clubs were interested in the striker but it now appears that Liverpool have won the race to sign the player. Kuyt is Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez' sixth signing of the summer and he has tipped him to become a favourite with the Liverpool faithful.

"I am really happy. We were looking at Dirk for a long time and I'm pleased we have signed him because he will be a good player for us," said Benitez. "He's a player with good game intelligence. He knows what to do with the ball and without the ball and he's also a very good worker. "His movement is good, his finishing is fantastic and I know he will score a lot of goals for us because we now have more possibilities in the wide areas and also between the lines."

I believe that this is a good move by Liverpool but I'm not sure Robbie Fowler will be to happy that Benitez has went out and bought another striker which will make him fourth in the pecking order of striker behind Crouch, Bellamy and Kuyt. Kuyt is a very good player and I think that if Liverpool are to challenge Chelsea for the title this year they will need plenty of goals and I am backing this man to bring Liverpool the goals.

Birmingham hand over Pennant

Liverpool have completed the signing of Birmingham winger Jermaine Pennant for a fee believed to be in the region of £6 million. The 23-year-old has signed a has signed a four year deal with the Merseyside club. Pennant becomes Liverpool boss, Rafa Benitez fifth signing of the summer after the arrival of Craig Bellamy, Gabriel Paletta, Mark Gonzalez and Fabio Aurelio. After completing his move, Pennant spoke of how happy he was that the deal had gone through.

"I'm over the moon," he told his new club's official website. "I've dreamt about this since I was a little boy so to actually be here and to be able to wear a Liverpool shirt and play at Anfield is a dream come true. "My family have always supported Liverpool and I grew up watching videos of them on the television. My grandad and grandma came here in the seventies and I think Liverpool must have caught their eyes. "The love of the club has spread through the family ever since. I actually got my first Liverpool kit when I was about four years of age. John Barnes was my idol when I first started watching Liverpool, but then as I got older I loved Robbie Fowler.

I have to say that I'm not too surprised that Pennant has left Birmingham because of their relagation last season, I believe that Pennant is great value for money and I think that he will become a big hit with the Kop. This will obviously make Pennant's chances of making the England team far greater because he will be playing at a top club with Champions League status.

Vieira on the move?

After his sides demotion from the Seire A, Patrick Vieira looks set to move, but to who? Former Arsenal striker Dennis Bergkamp, who was speaking after his testimonial which Patrick Vieira took part in, has urged current Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger to sign the former Gunners skipper. Bergkamp said : "I think about 56 people said to me today that Patrick should have another year here and I hope he will," Bergkamp said in the Daily Mirror. "Maybe that's not the right thing to say in football, but everyone saw what he did in the World Cup and if he can get to that level with Arsenal, it would be fantastic. "I have a great relationship with Patrick. We had a good connection even after he left the club to join Juventus and I have a lot of respect for him, as I do for Thierry (Henry)."

But Arsenal wouldn't be the only team after the 30 year old Frenchman, Italian side Inter Milan have also expressed an interest in the player with current Inter boss Roberto Mancinni saying that he expects to have Vieira in his side next year. Mancini will bring in the 30-year-old to replace Juan Sebastian Veron and has outlined the role he has lined up for the midfield powerhouse. "It's true that they (Veron and Vieira) are not so similar players, but they are both central midfielders," commented Mancini.

"Should Vieira really arrive, something will change in comparison to last season. "I could say we would be a little less technical and a little more thoughtful. "Anyway, in the middle we could also line up Pizarro as a playmaker, with Vieira and Cambiasso on the wings."

I think that Dennis Bergkamp is right that Arsenal should go after Vieira because he would be cheaper than usual and in my view Arsenal missed him last year. I think that he would favour a move back to Arsenal but I have heard a few rumours linking him with Spanish giants Barcelona but I'm not sure that Barcelona need him at this time.

Chelsea agree fee for Duff

Chelsea winger Damien Duff looks set for a move to Glenn Roeder's Newcastle after the two clubs agreed a fee. The Republic Of Ireland international has attracted intrest from many clubs in the Premiership most notably Tottenham and Liverpool but it looks as though he is heading north to Newcastle. The fee is believed to be around the £10 million mark for the former Blackburn man.

Duff was one of the first players to join Chelsea after Roman Abramovich moved in and he cost the London club £16 million but has been frustrated at the lack of first team football at Chelsea. He is said to have had a conversation with Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho and the Portugese manager said that Duff was free to go.

I think that this is a good move for both Newcastle and Duff because Newcastle could really do with a top class left winger and Duff would be getting alot more games at the Magpies. Duff is a very very good player and if he were to have stayed with Chelsea then I feel it would be a waste of great talent.

Everton, Wigan and Watford transfer news

Everton have taken South African international Delron Buckley on trial. The 28-year-old who joined Borrussia Dortmund last season can play as a winger or as a striker. Tottenham have already showed an interest in the player earlier this year but Everton have decided to take the player on a week long trial. "He is spending the next week at Everton with a view to a deal being done," his business manager Rob Moore told skysports.com. "This is a great opportunity for Delron, he wants a fresh challenge and the English game will suit him. "He likes to play a quick style and that is what The Premiership is all about."

Wigan are closing in on the signing of AZ Alkmaar midfielder Denny Landzaat after the 30-year-old agreed terms with the Premiership side. The Latics had a fee of around £3million accepted last week and are set to complete the signing in the next few days. "Denny's been on holiday in Italy. The deal's agreed and hopefully, he's just coming over to sign it," Jewell told the club's official website. "But you never know with transfers. Until the player signs on the dotted line you can't ever be certain it's going to happen, which is why we normally like to keep negotiations behind closed doors until everything is finalised."


Former Middlesbrough striker Joseph Desire Job is training with Premiership new boys Watford. Job spent all of last season on loan with Asian club Al Ittihad but is available on a free transfer now after he was released by Boro. "Joseph is training with Watford," his agent Barry Silkman told skysports.com. "They are assessing his fitness and having a look at him. "He is looking to stay in England and is keen to secure a deal."

Latest Transfer Gossip!

Well, after the verdict of the Italian match-fixing scandal and with all that's going on Man United at the moment there was bound to be alot of transfer gossip. The first bit of gossip is that want away Man United striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy is set to prefer a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid as opposed to German champs Bayern Munich.

Van Nistelrooy's agent Roger Linse has confirmed the 30-year-old favours a move to Madrid above the other interested clubs. "We met with Manchester United to tell them Ruud thought that stage of his career was over," Linse told Marca. "We know that Madrid want him and the player is also keen to play there. "Madrid is a dream for any footballer and also for Ruud."

United appear to be already on the look out for a replacement for Van Nistelrooy after they showed an interest in Atletico Madrid's Spanish international Fernando Torres. The 24 year old, who had a sensational World Cup netting three goals for the Spanish, could be set for a £20 million move to the Premiership side.

Now for just some of the rumours coming out of the Italian league after all that's happened. According to Czech Republic and Juventus star Pavel Nedved agent, the 33 year could be set for a move to Tottenham but they face competition from Monaco and several clubs from Asia. Zdenek Nehoda confirmed Tottenham, along with Monaco and Asia - were already keen. "Pavel has the potential to play in a top European league," Nehoda told CTK. "Monaco, Tottenham and some clubs from United Arab Emirates and Qatar have come up with specific offers."

Liverpool manager Rafeal Benitez is eyeing up a move for Juventus striker David Trezeguet. Benitez has now thrown his hat into the ring and confirmed that Trezeguet was a player he liked. "Trezeguet is a good player, the question is what kind of player do you need. We will look at what happens in Italy and see what we can do," he told The People. "All the Juventus players are good players - Trezeguet, Zambrotta, a lot of them are good players for us and for other clubs in the world. "They will now be a better price than they would have been three months ago."

If you have any rumours please don't be afraid to leave a comment and tell me them!

Three Down, One Survive

The four clubs who were involved in the Italian match fixing scandal have all learned their fate today. The verdict was that Juventus, Fiorentina and Lazio were all relagated from Seire A to Seire B and all were given point deductions for the start of next season. AC Milan escaped demotion but will also face a hefty points deduction for next season and will also be unable to take part in next seasons Champions League campaign.

Juventus have been stripped of their last two Seire A title wins and been given a massive 30 point deduction for their campaign in Seire B next season, they also were fined £50,000. Juventus are likely to lose the majority of their first players including the likes of World Cup winning captain Fabio Cannavaro, Swedish hitman Zlatan Ibrahimovic and many more big named players.

Fiorentina were demoted to Seire B and were given a 12 point deduction for next season but have avoided any major fines. Fiorentina will probably lose the likes of Italian international striker Luca Toni and French goalkeeper Sebastian Frey and a few more first team players. Lazio were deducted 7 points and also demoted to Seire B. They will most definetly lose Massimo Oddo who is attracting alot of intrest from all around Europe.

AC Milan were lucky enough to avoid demotion but were hit with a 12 point deduction for next season and will also be unable to take part in next seasons Champions League. Some players including Gennaro Gattuso and Andrea Pirlo may leave because of the lack of European football.

All four clubs are expected to appeal against the verdicts, but as things stand Internazionale and Roma would qualify automatically for next term's Champions League.Chievo Verona and Palermo would enter at the preliminary stage, while Livorno, Empoli and Parma would go into the Uefa Cup. There will also be a reprieve for Messina, Lecce and Treviso, who had initially been relegated last season, although there is a new inquiry relating to the former-named club.

This whole scenario could spark the transfer windo into light with a whole lot of activity going on in the next few weeks be sure to keep tuned.

I'm Back

I have today arrived home from Italy and I have to say that I'm sorry that I was unable to post on the World Cup and other transfers. I was delighted with the outcome of the final because of the fact that I was in Italy and the celebrations were great craic. I have to say congragulations to the majority of the viewers for predicting the outcome of the golden boot. Of course you all probably know about the whole match fixing thing going on in Italy at the moment and the verdict is expected at the end of the week so make sure you see the outcome right here and also the transfer window is in full swing so be sure to keep visiting.

Taking a short break!

Just to let readers know, I am going on holidays tommarow so I may not be able to update as frequently as normal but I will be hoping to update more on the world cup whilst I am in Italy on my holidays so if I do not update then you know why. By the way I will be in Italy for the final so lets hope Italy make it to the final! I will be back fully updating in about two or three week but remember to keep reading because I may be able to update their!

World Cup Group Stage Review

The World Cup group stages have finished. Sixteen teams qualifying for the 2nd round stage. The ties will be played between the 24th - 27th of June with eight teams progressing to the Quater Finals. In the post I will review each group and then give you the 2nd round ties. Among those qualified nations sit each option in our poll which has been running since April. Of course, 5% of our readers chose "Other," but - just to be nice - we'll presume that the Other team have also qualified. Expectedly, Brazil top the poll with 33%, while England finish second with 29% of the vote - although this tells more perhaps about our reader demographics than it does about the World Cup!


Group A: Group A was won by the hosts Germany who took maximum points from their three group games, beating Costa Rica 4-2, triumphing over Poland 1-0 and finally seeing-off Ecuador 3-0. Their best player so far has probably been Miraslav Klose who is, at the moment , the leading goalscorer of the tournament. Ecuador also went through in the group taking six points. They beat Poland 2-0 then beat Costa Rica 3-0 but then lost to the host Germany 3-0. They have certainly been one of the surprise packages in the competition. Poland and Costa Rica both bowed out of the competition with Costa Rica taking no points and Poland taking only three.

Group B: Group B was won by a less-than-impressive England side who were perhaps lucky to take seven points from their three group games, beating Paraguay by just one goal, before managing a 2-0 win against Trinindad & Tabago, while being held to a 2-2 draw by Sweden in their final group clash. Their star player, so far, has probably been Joe Cole. Sweden snatched at the second qualification spot, taking a mere five points; drawing 0-0 with Trinidad & Tobago then luckily seeing- off an average Paraguay side 1-0, before drawing with England 2-2. Trinidad & Tobago and Paraguay were both knocked out, but they gave a good account of themselves in the tournament.

Group C: The group of death many people labelled it but it went according to the form book with Argentina topping the group with seven points by beating Ivory Coast 2-1 in their opener and then they really turned on the style with an impressive 6-0 win over Serbia & Montenegro but could only manage a 0-0 draw with Holland who also progressed with seven points beating Serbia & Montenegro 1-0 and then just scrapping past Ivory Coast 2-1 and getting their 0-0 draw with Argentina gave them second place. Serbia & Montenegro went home with no points and Ivory Coast went home with just three.

Group D: One of the most predictable groups went exactly to the form book with Portugal topping the group with maximum points seeing off Angola 1-0 before going on to beat Iran 2-0 and finishing off the job with a 2-1 victory over fellow Group D qualifiers Mexico who only took six points from their three games. First, they impressivley beat Iran 3-1 but surprisingly enough they only managed a 0-0 draw against Angola and then were defeated at the hands of Portugal 2-1. Iran and Angola both go out of the tournament with 1 and 2 points respectivley.

Group E: Group E in my view was the toughest group to get out of but Italy managed to qualify taking seven points from their three group games. They started with a decent 2-0 win over African side Ghana before been held to a 1-1 draw against USA in a game that produced three red cards. They finished the group off with a comfortable 2-0 win over Czech Republic. Ghana were the other team to qualify through Group E taking an impressive six points and becoming the first African team to qualify for the 2nd round this year. They started with a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Italy before impressivley seeing off Czech Republic 2-0 and then guarenteed their place in the 2nd round with a 2-1 win over USA. Czech Republic were very unlucky to be knocked out in the group stages after a superb 3-0 win in their first game over USA who are also going home early.

Group F: Unsurprisingly Brazil were the winners of Group F although they were less than impressive. They started with a unconvincing 1-0 win over Crotia and were made to work very hard to get all three points against Australia although they won the game 2-0, but Brazil being Brazil they turned on the style in their last group game with a 4-1 win over Japan and another plus for them in that game was that their "out-of-sorts" striker Ronaldo scored twice to equal Gurt Muller's all-time World Cup goalscoring record. The other team to progress in the group were Australia who took four points from their group games. They had a superb come back in their first game against Japan scoring three goals in the last ten minutes to win 3-1 before losing to Brazil 2-0 but they managed to get the point they needed to qualify in their last game against Croatia which they drew 2-2. Croatia and Japan just weren't good enough to go through and now they are going home early.

Group G: Switzerland topped group G collecting seven points from their three games. They started with a woffil 0-0 draw with France before seeing off Togo 2-0 and they went on to top the group by beating South Korea 2-0. France also qualified from the group but they were less than convincing from my view. They started with a 0-0 bore draw with Switzerland before going on to draw their second game 1-1 against South Korea but they managed to qualify by beating Togo 2-0. Togo were one of only three teams to end up with no points but South Korea claimed four but they still just couldn't manage to progress to the knock out stages.

Group H: Group H was won by the group favourites, Spain who impressivley took maximum points from their three group games scoring 8 goals in the process. Spain got off to an absoloute flyer beating Ukraine 4-0 before going on to beat Tunisia 3-1 and finishing the job off against Saudia Arabia in their last game 1-0. Ukraine also progressed from Group H taking six points from a possible nine. They got off to a shocker losing 4-0 to Spain but that seemed to kick start their campaign because they went on to beat Saudi Arabia 4-0 and saw off Tunisia 1-0 in their last game. Saudi Arabia and Tunisia both only managed a point from their three group games.

2nd Round Fixtures (to be played between the 24th-27th of June)

Germany V Sweden (24th June) (Munich)
Argentina V Mexico (24th June) (Leipzig)
England V Ecuador (25th June) (Stuttgart)
Portugal V Holland (25th June) (Nuremburg)
Italy V Australia (26th June) (Kaiserslautern)
Switzerland V Ukraine (26th June) (Cologne)
Brazil V Ghana (27th June) (Dortmund)
Spain V France (27th June) (Hannover)

By the way I am starting a new poll to see who you think will win the World Cup Golden Boot so please vote!

Italian League thrown into Disarray

The Italian League has today been thrown into disarray after in emerged that four clubs are set to be put on trial next week in connection with the allegations of match fixing. The four clubs AC Milan, Lazio, Juventus and Fiorentina all now face the risk of demotion. Italian Football Federation prosecutor Stefano Palazzi did not divulge any individual names but he said that a number of sporting figures will stand trial.

The trial is due to start next Wednesday at Rome's Stadio Olimpico, with the Italian Federation keen to reach a conclusion in the very near future allowing for the clubs to prepare for next season whichever division they are in next season.

I have to say that this is probably a very big distraction for the Italian national team at the moment because they are playing in the World Cup at the moment and that is the only thing that they want to concentrate on at the moment. Many of the players in the Italian national team are contracted to the four clubs.

Premiership fixture list announced!

So finally the fixtures for next seasons Premiership, Championship, League One and League Two seasons have all been announced. In the post I am just going to give some of the so called bigger ties on the first day of the season in the Premiership. Premiership holders Chelsea host Manchester City at Stamford bridge whilst fellow title challengers for next season, Manchester United entertain Fulham at Old Trafford. Premiership new boys Reading, Sheffield United and Watford all face tough test against Middlesbrough, Everton and Liverpool respectivley.

To find out all of the other fixtures from the four leagues I mentioned just click here and best of luck to you all whoever you may support in the new season!

Latest transfer gossip from the Premiership

I know over the last two weeks or so many of you have been caught up in the whole World Cup fever stuff but you still have to remember the Premiership still runs as normal. I decided to write this post to juts tell you a few things that have happened in the Premiership during the past two weeks. Today Manchester City signed Lazio midfielder Ousame Dabo on a three year contract after the former French international turned down a contract from Lazio to stay their for six more years. Dabo passed his medical at City on Tuesday.

Former Newcastle bad boy Craig Bellamy looks set to be joining Liverpool after his current employers Blackburn gave him permission to talk to the former European Champions. Rovers boss Mark Hughes said that he had to let Liverpool talk to him because a clause in Bellamy's contract enabled any club that plays in the Champions League and offer over £6 million for him can speak to the player. Bellamy supported Liverpool as a boy and is said to be keen to move to Liverpool.

Now here a few rumours speculating around the Premiership. Wigan are supposebly keen on former England international Emile Heskey. Heskey's current club Birmingham were relagated last season and it is unlikely that he would want to play in The Championship. Nicky Butt could be set for a move to Premiership new boys Sheffield United. Butt, who also plays for Birmingham had a dissapointing season last year and could be set for a fresh start at Bramill Lane.

If you have any other gossip that you would like to disscus about the Premiership then just leave a comment!

World Cup Review (so far)

Well the world cup has got of to a cracking start with loads 0f goals and red cards but not alot of penalties. I have to say and I think youl'l agree that it has been brilliant so far no matter who you support. The competition got of to a perfect start with the hosts, Germany, beating Costa Rica 4-2 and Ecuador in some ways shocking Poland by beating them 2-0. I have to say that I was least than impressed with the start that England have made with two mediocre performances so far but the important statistic is that they are through to the knock out stages already.

Trinindad and Tabago have given a great account of themselves so far although they have only picked up one point against Sweden who are now pretty much guarenteed a place in the knock out stages after a 1-0 over Paraguay. Argentina have made the most impressive start to the competition after they beat The Ivory Coast 2-1 they have went on to beat Serbia and Montenegro 6-0 and in some style as well. Holland have also got off to a great start beating Serbia and Montenegro 1-0 and beating The Ivory Coast 2-1 and their star player so far was Arjen Robben.

Mexico and Portugal have as everyone would of predicted both claimed three points against Iran and Angola respectivley. Mexico were slightly more impressive than Portugal by beating Iran 3-1 and Portugal only managing to put 1 goal past Angola. Czech Republic had a very very impressive group opener against USA by beating them by three goals to nil with Arsenal's new signing Tomas Rosicky scoring two. Italy beat Ghan 2-0 in the other game in that group but Ghana put up a galent effort.

Australia made an amazing come back against Japan after beena goal down they scored three goals in the last ten minutes with second half substitute Tim Cahill getting two. Brazil as suspected made a winning start to their campaign but it wasn't all plain sailing against Crotia. Brazil only beat them 1-0 with a spectacular goal by Ac Milan superstar Kaka but Real Madrid star Ronaldo was less than impressive.

Last year's fourth place team South Korea got their campaign off to a flyer with a 2-1 victory over Togo but Togo did give them a bit of a scare after they took the lead but South Korea faught back after Togo's captain was sent off. The other game in the group was a bore draw between France and Switzerland.

Spain got off to a wonderful start when they beat Ukraine by four goals to nil. The first penalty in the competition was awarded and Spanish striker David Villa slotted home and he also scored another goal in the game. Tunisia and Saudi Arabia both claimed a point when they drew 2-2 but the game wasn't a very good one. If you have any views on the matches then just leave a comment.

Keane hangs up his boots

Roy Keane has today retired at the age of 34 on medical advice. Roy Keane will mainly be remembered for his time at Manchester United although he did end his carrer at his boyhood heros Celtic. Keane's last match of his carrer was his testimonial match between Celtic and Man United. The ex-Republic of Ireland skipper had endured mounting injury problems during the later stages of his career, which have pressed Keane into his decision.

"Having received medical advice from my surgeon and the Celtic club doctor, I feel my only option is to retire," said Keane in a statement. "I would like to send the manager, the staff, the players and the supporters of Celtic Football Club my best wishes for the future."

Among the best midfielders of his generation, Keane started a glittering career with Cobh Ramblers before being snapped up by Nottingham Forest in 1989. Keane quickly made an impression at The City Ground and was renowned for his all-action style of play. He joined United in 1993 for £3.75 million after shunning Blackburn Rovers and he went on to win a string of major honours after proving to be the heartbeat of Sir Alex Ferguson's team.

But suspension ruled Keane out of the club's finest hour of modern times when he missed the 1999 UEFA Champions League final against Bayern Munich after a heroic performance against Juventus in the semi-finals. Following his surprising split from United last autumn, Keane agreed a deal with Celtic and featured in enough games to secure a Scottish title medal.

He had an option for a contract for next season, but Keane has decided that his injury worries are serious enough to prevent him from helping Celtic in the Champions League. Keane's career has also not been without controversy as he famously left Ireland's 2002 World Cup squad in the Far East after a bust-up with Mick McCarthy.

The hothead midfielder was also regularly in trouble with referees and was punished after the event by The Football Association when he admitted to deliberately going out to injure ex-Manchester City player Alf Inge Haaland.

I have to say although I am a Man City fan, he was a brilliant player although he could be a ploncker at times with some of the tackles he made. I wish Roy and his family the best of luck in the future and he will always be remeber as a "LEGEND" by his fellow country men.

World Cup Preview

So we have reached the eve of the biggest sporting event in the world and I reckon that it is going to be brilliant. 32 countries fighting it out for the biggest prize in football, the World Cup. In the post I won't go into great detail of all of the teams taking part, just the ones with realistic chances. Here are the few that I think have great chances:

Germany: The host of the competition, Germany have obviously got to be taken seriously. They have some class players like Klose, Ballack, Podolski, etc. Germany are priced at around 9/1 with most bookies but I think that they should be around about 12/1. My prediction is that Germany will get knocked out in the Quater Finals.

England: I think that this is England's best chance of winning the cup in years because they have such top class players like Lampard and Gerrard and with the news about Wayne Rooney then their chances have certainly rised. England are priced at about 13/2 which I think is a fair estimate of their chances.

Brazil: The holders of the cup, Brazil are definetly going to be the team to beat in Germany this summer. With world class players like Ronaldinho, Adriano and Ronaldo the holders are definetly the most skillful team in the cup. The bookies have placed them at around about 5/2 but although they are a brilliant team I think that that price is to skinny.

Argentina: To be honest I think that Argentina are the team that have what it takes to win the World Cup this year. Messi, Riquelme and Crespo, in my opinion have what it takes to take Argentina to the final and then win it. The are priced at 8/1 which I think is quiet generous.

If you think that any teams that I haven't mentioned have a good chance of winning the world cup then just leave a comment and if you have any view on my opinions then don't be afraid to comment!

Young set for Addicks Exit

Charlton defender Luke Young has today handed in a transfer request after he became increasingly unhappy at the club. "I've grown increasingly frustrated with the way contract negotiations have been conducted by Charlton," said Young. "I appreciate there has been a change in management but this does not account for the club overlooking contractual obligations to review my contract and allowing three separate deadlines to pass.

"I can only assume they do not want to extend therefore I have handed in a transfer request." As Young was declaring - Charlton announced that they had offered Young a new three-year contract. "Luke is a key member of our squad and we have offered him a lucrative new deal," said Charlton chairman Richard Murray.

"He is an England international and his performances over the past few seasons, including last term when he was the club captain, have been excellent." The England international played in Sven Goran Eriksson's side during the World Cup qualification campaign, but like team-mate Darren Bent he was not selected for the 23-man squad for the finals.

I am not really surprised that Young has handed in the transfer request because I'm not sure Iain Dowie is the man to lead Charlton into the future. I think that if Young was to move to someone like West Ham then that will improve his England chances in the future. Young is a very good player and I hope that whoever he signs for that he does well!

Chelsea finally get their man

Chelsea have finally agreed a deal which will take John Obi Mikel to Stamford Bridge for a combined fee of £16million with £12million of the fee going to Manchester United. The rest of the fee will go to John Obi's current club Lyn. The agreement resolves the future of the 19-year-old, who has been the subject of a bitter dispute between the three clubs.

United have agreed "to terminate their option agreement" with Mikel, whose registration goes to Chelsea. "Under the terms of this agreement Chelsea will pay Manchester United £12m, half payable now and half in 12 months, and Lyn £4m, half payable now, and half payable in 12 months' time," said a United statement.

To be frankly honest I am fed up of it at this stage, Chelsea been able to buy any player they want just because they have the money. Now I think that John Obi Mikel is a good player but if he isn't guarenteed a first team place then I think it's a big waste. I think that he would of been far better off going to Man United and that's coming from a Man City supporter!

England see off Hungary

England succesfully came through a tough international friendly against Hungary by winning 3-1 at Old Trafford tonight.Steven Gerrard and John Terry both headed home free-kicks in the space of four minutes early in the second half but most of the credit has to go to David Beckham for his wonderful deleveries into the box for both of the goals.


Pal Dardai pulled a goal back with a brilliant long-range shot. Theo Walcott came on to become England's youngest ever international, while Gabor Kiraly saved a first-half penalty from Frank Lampard but it was debatable descion because the replay showed that Gerrard had taken a dive.. But Peter Crouch rapped up the match in the last couple of minutes when he slotted home cooley past the halpless Kiraly.

Overall the match was a sucses for England althoughthere was a little bit of an injury scare when Gary Neville had to be taken off at half-time and Owen Hargreaves replaced him but the England physio's said it was nothing!

Chelsea snap up Kalou

Chelsea have signed Salomon Kalou from Dutch side Feyernood for an undisclosed fee. The 20 year old has signed a three year contract at the Premiership Champions who have already brought in German midfielder Michael Ballack and are looking to bring in Shevchenko from AC Milan. Kalou, who has signed for an undisclosed fee, scored 15 goals in 35 games in the Dutch League last season.

The striker was born in Ivory Coast but lost his bid to obtain Dutch nationality in time to play for Holland during this summer's World Cup. Kalou is the younger brother of Ivory Coast captain Bonaventure Kalou, who plays for Paris St Germain.

Supported by Netherlands coach Marco van Basten and the country's former playmaker Johan Cruyff, Kalou applied for Dutch citizenship but was denied by Immigration Minister Rita Verdonk. She told parliament in March that Kalou did not fulfil the criteria for fast-track citizenship and would have to retake a Dutch language and culture test.

I believe that this is a decent signing from Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho although he probably won't get much of a game which I think is a shame because he is a very talented youngster with bags of pace and goals. I would of prefered Kalou to go to someone like Liverpool because it would be a shame to waste such talent. I hope he gets a game and I hope he does very well in the Premiership.

Oh, I have to say sorry for the lack of posting but over the summer it should get very hot in the Transfer Market so be sure to keep checking out the blog!!!

Gerrard and Rooney claim PFA Awards

Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney have both been rewarded for their impresive season's by both been rewarded the PFA Player of the year and PFA Young Player of the year award respectivly. Gerrard faced tough competition from trio of Chelsea stars - John Terry, Joe Cole and Frank Lampard - as well as Thierry Henry and Young Player of the year Wayne Rooney. Gerrard has had an impresive season so far by leading his Liverpool side to the FA Cup final and some extrodinarly great performances.

Gerrard expressed his shock at taking the prize, emphasising the depth of talent in the six-man shortlist. "I am still in shock to be honest," said Gerrard. "If you look at the shortlist, there are five other guys who have so much talent. They are all special players. "And then there are also the guys who have not made the shortlist - there are so many players who could have won this award. "I looked at the list of past winners and there are some fantastic names on there - some legends, so I am really proud to have joined them, it is really special."

Gerrard also expressed his delight at landing the award so soon after the FA Cup semi-final win over Chelsea. "It has been one of the best weekends of my life," Gerrard added. "To go through to another FA Cup final and win this special award is fantastic for me."

Rooney has been given the award for his impresive displays for Manchester United and for netting sixteen goals already this season. Rooney has inspired Manchester United's late charge up the table, with the recent display against Arsenal one of his highlights, but has been the model of consistency throughout their campaign. He has also starred for England, and has been tipped to take this summer's World Cup by storm.

The other nominees were Rooney's Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo, Charlton's Darren Bent, Aaron Lennon of Tottenham and Anton Ferdinand of West Ham, and the England star revealed his delight at retaining the prize. "To win it twice on the run is a great honour and I am delighted with the award," said Rooney. "As a team, we have done a bit better than last year, so it is an improvement. "Hopefully we can continue that and I will be sitting here again next season."

Rooney also revealed that he had plumped for Spanish midfielder Fabregas, as well as his Arsenal colleague Thierry Henry in the senior award. "I voted for Fabregas, but it was close between him and Darren Bent, who has been brilliant with all the goals he has scored for Charlton," Rooney added. "But Fabregas has done really well for Arsenal - especially in the Champions League". "I also voted for Thierry Henry, for the goals he has scored and the overall performance - the main thing is that he was doing it all in the Champions League as well."

I think that both rewards are just reward for two fine players who have performed to their very best this season. Both of these players have been role models for alot of young people through out the world and I think that they have acted as great role models all through out the season.

Pires To Spain?

Robert Pires has reportadly been offered a two year contract offer by Spanish Champions League semi-finalists Villarreal who incidently against Pires' current side Arsenal in the tie. The Frenchman is looking for a two-year deal from The Gunners to continue in North London but has so far been frustrated with boss Arsene Wenger sticking to his policy of offering his over-30s one-year extensions.

Reports in Spain have suggested for some time that Villarreal have all but secured Pires for next season and the 32-year-old has now admitted he has an offer on the table. However, the Frenchman insists he will not open talks with the Spanish outfit before their Champions League semi-final has been decided with the North Londoners assuming a 1-0 first-leg lead on Wednesday night.

"Villarreal want me for the next two seasons," Pires told AS. "The most important thing at the moment is for me to help Arsenal get into the final. After that if I have to talk to the people from Villarreal I will. "They are a great team and I like Spain and the Spanish league." Pires has been at Arsenal for six seasons having joined from Marseille in 2000.

I believe that this would be a good move for Pires because he has certainly not been playing as much games as he would like so far this season. I think he is under-performing when he has got the chance at Arsenal this season. I don't believe Arsenal really need him any more and he has been a good servant to the club that they should let him go to Spain.

AC Milan V. Barcelona : Preview

Tonight's match between AC Milan and Barcelona is sure to be one of the best games in the Champions League this season. The two European giants will battle it out for a place in the Final where they will face either Villarreal or Arsenal in Paris next month. Italian giants AC have been hit by the news that striker Fillipo Inzaghi will miss the first leg in the San Siro tonight through a virus and Barcelona will have to make do without Swedish striker Henrik Larsson who misses out with a thigh injury. Barca will also be without Deco who is suspended for the game tonight.

Barca boss Frank Rijkaard believes the semi final could prove a seminal moment in the club's recent history. "This game is our big opportunity to consolidate ourselves as one of the top clubs," he said. "We're a young team that still has a lot of hunger for victories, but it's time to show it at the top level. "Milan is a team with a lot of experience, a great system of play and a very strong defence. It will be very interesting to see how we react against an opponent of this nature."

AC Milan chairman Adriano Galliani has dismissed claims that his side's push for the Serie A title will distract them from the match. Milan host Barcelona just days after moving to within five points of Juventus in Italy's premier league. But Galliani said: "We have only the Champions League in mind and we are focusing exclusively on Barcelona." Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi added: "I think it will be fun. Not just for Milan fans, but for all the fans in Europe and the world that will follow this game."

Key battles tonight for me are the likes of Barca captain Puyol against Ukrainian hit-man Andre Shevchenko and Samuel Eto'o against Italian dfender Alessandro Nesta. I can see AC winning the first leg 2-1 but overall I see Spanish giants Barcelona going through on aggregate and going on to win the trophy. You can watch the game on ITV 1 tonight! Enjoy the match!

Sunderland finally put out of their misery

Sunderland have finally been put out of their misery after they have finally been guarenteed relagation after a fighting performance at Old Trafford were they drew 0-0 with title chasers Man United. Sunderland have been all but down pretty much since the start of the season but they didn't go down without a fight having a few good chances against the Red Devils. Sunderland needed a win tonight but they could only manage a draw.

The Black Cats keeper Kelvin Davis was in magnificent form tonight and basically put an end to United's slim hopes of clinching the title of Chelsea. Sunderland's caretaker manager was full of praise for his side: "The way they played was magnificent, we didn't come to make up the numbers, we came to have a go. "Every player was superb and there were opportunities for us to have won. "We have to build on that, we've got five massive games and we need to build for the future. The main thing now is to prepare right for Monday against Newcastle."

Man United boss Alex Ferguson remained adimint after the game that United still had a chance of winning the league! DREAM ON ALEX!!!!

United sign big money deal

Manchester United have signed the biggest sponsership deal in the UK today after they signed a deal with American Insurance company AIG (American Insurance Group). The deal is worth £56.5m over four years, the club said. United have had to find a new shirt logo sponsor after current sponsor Vodafone decided to end its £9m-a-year agreement from the end of this season.

The deal is seen as key to United as they look to bolster their squad to help them challenge for domestic and European honours. Off and on the pitch, United have undergone a slight dip in form during the past couple of years. Earlier this year, a survey said that Real Madrid had overtaken Manchester United to become the world's richest football club in terms of income.

I have to say that this is a very good step forward for Man United because the money could help their transfer budget in the summer. Although I am not a United fan I am hoping that this will make United challenge for the league alot more next year with Chelsea because although they have had a good end to the season their star wasn't great. I also would like to say that the logo looks nice on the jersey!

Reading are Championship Champions

Reading have today been crowned champions of the Championship after a impresive 5-0 win over Derby County. The Royals were last week guarenteed promotion last week and clinched the title this week. They have had a very impresive season this year but few could predict such a comprehensive victory in the Championship after they lost their first game of the season at home to Plymouth 2-1 way back in August.

They have had all of their strikers in top form this season and have also had a very solid back line. The manager Steve Coppell deserves great credit for bringing what seemingly was a Championship mid-table side to become Champions is a great achievement. I would like to congragulate all of the staff and fans involved with Reading Football club and wish them the best of look in the Premiership next season.

If you would like to read the report of today's game between Reading and Derby then just click here!

Parker set for untimely lay-off

Scott Parker may miss the rest of the league season with Newcastle according to caretaker boss Glen Roder who says that he suspects he is suffering from glandular fever. If the tests confirm the illness Parker will definetly not play for the Magpies again this season and he has now ended his chances of playing in the World Cup for England.


"Glandular fever is what we are expecting. We think he's had this for a month or more," said Roeder. "That sums up everything you need to know about Scott Parker." The news will come as a blow to the Magpies, who have seen the former Charlton player thrive since his £6.5m summer move from Chelsea to St James' Park.

I actually thought that with the form Parker has been in that he would of been a good bet to make the England World Cup squad. He has played extremly well for Newcastle when he has played this season because he had a injury during the campaign. I wish Parker the best of luck with his recovery and hopefully he will be in the England squad for Euro 2008.

Drogba: Honest or Cheat?

Now if you haven't already heard about Didier Drogba's antics on Saturday then let me just refresh your memory. During Chelsea's Premiership clash with Manchester City on Saturday Drogba was been his same old self, throwing himself around the ground and moaning at every decsion. At around about half three on Saturday he scored a good goal past City's keeper David James to put his side ahead but what happened only a few minutes after has been brought into dispute.

Drogba appeared to of handled the ball after a cross came in from the right and he then placed it in the net. Now you would say the ref or the linesman would have to of seen it because it was so so clear and with the City players protesting how could he of not of seen it. In City's protest two players were booked including captain Sylvain Distin and he was latter sent off for arguing the case at half-time. For that incident I would probably have to blame the ref mostly but Drogba has to get a bit of the blame as well.

In the post-match interview Drogba admitted handling the ball,"Yes, it was handball, but that's part of the game. "If City had done it, nobody would have mentioned it, but everyone is out to make a big mess about Chelsea." Drogba was then forced to quickly make a retraction in his post-match interview after admitting he dived. "Sometimes I dive, sometimes I stand," he said, before adding: "No, I don't dive."

You could say that he was very honest in addmitting that he handballed it or you could say that he is a cheat for doing it in the first place but on his second comment, there is no doubt that he does dive and that he does it far too often and he would be better of staying on his feet. I think he is a cheat for doing this and I am sure now that the FA will keep a close eye on him in the next couple of games.

What do you think? Leave a comment?

Premiership Saturday review

Well another Saturday in the Premiership and yet another Chelsea victory and all they need now to clinch their second league title in a row is four more wins. Liverpool came out the better of the the Mersey side derby today but it wasn't all plain sailing for Rafa's red army. Portsmouths match against Arsenal was posponded due to a waterlogged pitch. Here is a brief report of all of todays games in the Premiership:

Two goals in three first-half minutes from Didier Drogba were enough for Chelsea to post a comfortable victory over depleted Manchester City. Drogba took his season's tally to 13 after he latched onto a throughball from Eidur Gudjohnsen. He fired home a second from six yards, despite complaints from City defenders he brought the ball down with his arm. City skipper Sylvain Distin continued his arguments at half-time and was sent off for a second booking. Final Score: Chelsea 2-0 Man City.

Liverpool overcame the early dismissal of Steven Gerrard to beat Everton in an incident-packed Merseyside derby. Gerrard earned two quickfire yellow cards - for kicking the ball away and then a bad challenge on Kevin Kilbane. Liverpool then scored twice in three minutes through a Phil Neville own goal and a clinical finish from Luis Garcia. Tim Cahill headed one back but Everton had substitute Andy van der Meyde sent off after 72 minutes for an elbow and Harry Kewell's fine strike sealed it. Final Score: Liverpool 3-1 Everton.

Blackburn kept up their charge for a Champions League spot by getting the better of a spirited Sunderland side. An individual goal from Steven Reid on 15 minutes proved the match-winner with the midfielder firing home after running half the length of the pitch. Bottom-placed Sunderland, without a home win in the league this season, showed plenty of heart after the break. Final Score: Sunderland 0-1 Blackburn.

West Ham came from behind to snatch a last-gasp victory thanks to skipper Nigel Reo-Coker's close-range tap-in. Wigan had taken the lead just before the break with a stunning long-range drive from Lee McCullough. But Paul Scharner's weak header back to Wigan keeper Mike Pollitt dropped short allowing Harewood to round the substitute keeper and tap in to level. The game looked to be heading for a draw before Teddy Sheringham crossed for Reo-Coker who cooly slotted home. Final Score: Wigan 1-2 West Ham.

Aston Villa and Fulham remain bogged down in the lower reaches of the Premiership table after playing out a drab and uneventful draw. Lee Hendrie had Villa's best chance in the first half, sending a right-foot volley narrowly over the top. For Fulham, Steed Malbranque volleyed just wide when well-placed in the opening seconds of the second half. Aston Villa 0-0 Fulham.

Just to say well done to Reading who have clinched promotion to the Premiership today with a 1-1 draw at Leicster and I looked forward to seeing them fight it out in the Premiership next season.

Hiddink set for England?

Guus Hiddink has announced today that he will leave Dutch giants PSV at the end of the season increasing speculation that he will take over the England hot seat in replace of Sven Goran Eriksson. The Dutchman has promised to reveal his plans at the end of March, but he added: "There's nothing concrete now, let alone anything signed." Hiddink, who has coached Australia alongside PSV duties, will be in charge of the Socceroos at the World Cup.

Under Hiddink's guidance, Australia qualified for the World Cup finals for the first time in 32 years. However, Football Federation Australia has admitted it does not expect Hiddink to stay on after the World Cup. On Thursday, Hiddink said he had already decided on his next move.

This very very interesting news regarding the England job and I think he will indeed take over the job in the summer. Hiddink is a very very experienced coach both at international level and club level and that's why I think he would be the ideal sucsesor to Sven Goran Eriksson.

Le Guen named new Gers boss

Former Lyon manager Paul Le Guen has been named new Rangers manager from next season on. It has been widely predicted that Le Guen would take the Ibrox hot seat after it was confirmed that current manager Alex McCleish would step down at the end of the season. The Frenchman has signed a three year deal with the Scotish giants. Rangers chairman David Murray was delighted to announce the appointment of Le Guen and paid tribute to McLeish for the work he had done at the club.


"I am pleased Paul has agreed to join Rangers," Murray told the club's official website. "His track record speaks for itself and hopefully, he will bring future success to the club. "I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Alex McLeish for his achievements, having secured seven trophies in four-and-a-half years."

Le Guen, who has been out of work since leaving Lyon last summer, is looking forward to the challenge of working at Ibrox. "I am looking forward to the challenge at Rangers," said Le Guen. "I received a number of interesting offers from major clubs around Europe in the last year, but this move to Scotland was the right one for me and my family. "Rangers has a proud history and tradition and I hope to bring further success to the club for the supporters."

This is great news for all Rangers fans because Le Guen has been highly recommended to Rangers by many top managers including Arsenal chief Arsene Wenger. I do fell sorry for McCleish because over the years he has done a whole lot for the club but I'm sure Le Guen will do a top job at Ibrox and good luck to him!

Physco set to commit to City

Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce has confirmed that he will sign a his rolling deal with the Premiership club at some stage over the next week. Pearce, 43, has been working without a contract since replacing Kevin Keegan as boss over a year ago. But he said: "I have not had time to read it which is causing problems, both in the press and with the Premier League, so I will sign it this week.


"I'm not a lover of bits of paper, contracts do not mean a lot to me." Pearce also revealed he will not be entitled to any compensation from City should chairman John Wardle sack him as manager. At the same time, if he chose to leave the club and move elsewhere, the club would not be able to ask for a fee for their boss.

This will be great news for all Man City fans because Physco has done extremly well since he was given the job last year. I am a City fan myself and I would like it if City tied Pearce down to a longer contract because I believe in years to come alot more clubs will want Pearcy.

McCarthy gets the sack!

Finally Mick McCarthy has got the sack from Sunderland but not to the happieness of Liam Lawrence who said he was disappointed at the sacking. Sunderland have been woffil this season and it was only time before McCarthy got the sack. Sunderland were defeated against Man City on Sunday and now Sunderland have said enough is enough and have sacked him after a dismal season. McCarthy told Sky Sports News that he will move on to another job in the future.


"Why wouldn't I [have a smile on my face]?" he enquired. "I've enjoyed every bit of it, fantastic. "It's been tough the last few months but I've enjoyed every single minute of it. It's been a pleasure and I've been very fortunate. "That's nice [the fans expressing their disappointment at the decision]. I'm sure I've got support but I'm sure I've got people who think otherwise. "As always, I've done my best and I can't do any more. I'll move on and eventually do something else."

McCarthy certainly put a brave face on the board's decision to bring an abrupt end to his reign, after saying after the City of Manchester Stadium game that he wanted to take the team back up next season. "It's happened," he continued to Sky Sports News. "That's all I'm going to say. "It's been brilliant and I've thoroughly enjoyed it and enjoyed the support of the fans. It was great last year with the championship but it's changed this [year]."I'm not going to dash away all aggressive and horrible, I'll leave you with a smile."

Not very surprising news for all football fans and now the gossip will be who will be the next Sunderland manager. I think someone like George Graham might be a decent replacement. If you have any idea on who will be the next manager please leave a comment and if you think that the Sunderland board were right to sack McCarthy.

O'Connor of to Russia

Hibernian striker Gary O'Connor has joined Russian side Lokomotiv Moscow for a fee of £1.6 million. The Scotland striker is travelling to the Russian club's training camp in southern Spain and the 22-year-old will meet his new team-mates on Tuesday. O'Connor underwent a gruelling, two-day medical in Munich last week after he and Hibs agreed terms with Lokomotiv. A Hibs spokesman said: "Garry has passed his medical and documentation should be completed within 24 hours." O'Connor had two years of his contract to run but will now take a massive leap in earnings to about £16,000 per week.


This is a great move for O'Connor although I would of liked him to of moved to a Premiership team because I would of loved to see how he would of done in the Prem. O'Connor has immensly well at Hibernian with a great partnership up front with Derek Riordan who has also been linked with a move away from Hibs. Good luck Gary!

Club Profile: Manchester United

Name: Manchester United
Nickname: The Red Devils

Manager: Sir Alex Ferguson
Captain: Gary Neville

Stadium: Old Trafford
Capacity: 68,000

Star Player: Wayne Rooney
One To Watch: Giuseppe Rossi
Young Gun: Gerald Pique

Top goalscorer of all-time: Bobby Charlton (247 goals)
Most Appearances: Bobby Charlton (754 games)

Profile:

Manchester United FC are a club steeped in great tradition. Down through the years they have produced many a world class player with the likes of George Best, Dennis Law, Bobby Charlton etc,. In 1958 the club suffered one of the biggest disasters in years, a plane carrying the whole United team crashed whilst on route home to Manchester from Germany were they had just qualified through in the European Cup. Eight players died in total. During the rebuilding it was tough but then a man came along, his name was George Best. He was simply outstanding and was probably the best player since the players in the accident. In the 90's United dominated the Premierleague and won pretty much all of the time but in the last three or four years they have struggled with the whole thing going on at Chelsea. They suffered a really bad blow this season, losing their most inspirational charecter and captain Roy Keane after a bust-up with the manager. United crashed out of Europe early this season and are way adrift of the Premierleague leaders Chelsea. They had a bit of joy though only at the weekend when the won The Carling Cup 4-0 against Wigan. They will now be hoping that they can build on that and catch up on Chelsea.


Feel free to read the other club profiles on the sidebar!

Hammers keeper goes under the knife

West Ham United goalkeeper Roy Carroll has been ruled out of action for up to six weeks after he under went surgery on a on going back injury that has prevented him from playing consistintley this year. The Northern Ireland shot stopper was sent under the knife by West Ham after sending him for scans on the injury. Shaka Hislop will continue to deputise in the absence of Carroll, while James Walker is close to making a return after a long-term injury.

Hammers boss Alan Pardew believes that Carroll will soon be back in action. "He has had his operation. He's bored, but in good spirits and looking forward to coming back. We think that will take six weeks. "Jimmy Walker is coming right back into shape and will start putting pressure on soon."

This is a bad blow for Carroll and West Ham because Carroll has really excelled this season under the management of Pardew and everyone else at the club. I don't think I've seen Carroll make any blunder like he had did at Man United and I think he enjoys it more down at Upton Park. Get well soon!

Ballack on way to Chelsea?

Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack's looks set to join Premiership Champions Chelsea during the summer on a bosman deal according to his agent. After reports claiming the Bayern Munich captain has decided to head for Stamford Bridge were initially played down by the midfielder, Becker (Ballack's agent) suggests his client will join the Premiership champions if Real Madrid do not show any more interest in the player.

Manchester United and Inter Milan made Ballack one of their priorities this summer but Becker has made it clear that the Germany international wants to join one of the favourites for next season's UEFA Champions League. "Nothing has been signed but there will be ongoing contact with Chelsea," Becker told BBC Sport. "There is strong interest from both sides. "The trend is in this direction [to move to Chelsea].

"Michael had initially been very keen on Real Madrid, but the leadership changes there in the last few months mean we don't know what's happening. "Michael will continue his career with a side that will win the Champions League. "He definitely will not go to Inter. He would only move to a club where he has a better chance of winning the Champions League than at Bayern."

I would like to see Ballack play in the Premiership but for anyone but Chelsea because he won't be guarenteed first team football and it's a shame to waste such talent. Ballack is a very talented player with alot of great attributes and I wish him well where ever he ends up in the summer!

Has Pardew lost the plot!

Alan Pardew has today said that West Ham United striker Teddy Sheringham should be on the plane to Germany in the summer for England. Nope, you haven't read that wrong, Teddy Sheringham the 39 year-old that can hardly run anymore. "You could take Teddy for a number of reasons. He's only going to be a positive force around the squad. "If you needed him to come on, settle things down or create something, he could achieve that. "Personally, he has done fantastic for us and is no different now to what he was eight years ago, in my opinion."

Hahaha! I know Teddy has done decent this season but for him to be playing out in Germany for England in the summer would be crazy. He is just too old and he wouldn't get in ahead of the likes of Rooney, Owen, Defoe, Crouch and Bent. If Sven thinks of bringing up Sheringham than he might as well think of bringing up Peter Beargrie!

Osgood passes away

Chelsea and Southampton legend Peter Osgood has died at the age of 59. Osgood collapsed while attending a family funeral service on Wednesday at Slough crematorium.


1947-2006

Pay your tributes to a great man by leaving a comment.

Pool star out for rest of season

Liverpool star Momo Sissoko is set to miss the rest of the season with a similar condition to Man United's Paul Scholes. Sissoko has a very serious eye injury that could threaten his whole carrer. He picked up the injury during Liverpool's 1-0 defeat to Benfica on Tuesday night in the Champions League second round. However, Benitez is resigned to being without the former Valencia man for the rest of this campaign.

"He is now more confident about the situation, and we must wait a week for him to have rest and then he will see another specialist," said Benitez. "It is the first time I have seen such a bad eye injury, he needs to rest now. I expect him to play again, but this season will be difficult.

"He is back in Liverpool, he cannot travel so he will stay here for rest. He has heard all the things people have been saying about the injury but for now it is better that he rests and keeps calm. "He is a big loss, but the most important thing is the health of a player. "You have players injured, but when it is this serious you must be more concerned about his health first.

"I do not expect Momo to play again this season, maybe we will see him working again within a few months." In Sissoko's absence Steven Gerrard is expected to revert to his preferred role in central midfield after playing most of the season on the right.

"He (Gerrard) can change matches, and he can do that better from the centre," added Benitez. "Losing Sissoko means the option for central midfield does involve Gerrard. "(Xabi) Alonso and (Dietmar) Hamann can play in the middle, but maybe it is time to start using someone else on the right side.

"Momo was working for everyone, a fantastic player with so much energy right across midfield. "Gerrard is a different type of player but he has more quality and he can change games. "Luis Garcia, too, can play in three different positions, but if we need to use Gerrard in the middle then Luis can play on the right."

This is obviously a big blow for Liverpool football club because losing one of your top performers for your team sure isn't easy. Sissoko has done very very well this season and he was probably hoping to keep up his consistancy for the rest of the season but unfortunatly this has happened. Get well soon Momo!

FA Cup 5th Round Review + 6th Round Draw

Here is a full round-up of this weekends FA Cup 5th round ties which saw only Premiership sides progress in the tournament. The best of the matches came at the Valley were Premiership side Charlton hosted an in-form League 1 side Brentford. Charlton went ahead early through there top goalscorer Darren Bent and they never looked backed from there because they went on to score two more goals in the shape of Jay Boythroyd and Bryan Hughes. Brentford did grab a consalation goal late on from Isiah Rankin but it was to little to late.

The worst match of Saturday afternoon saw a bore 0-0 draw between Bolton and West Ham and the two sides will now play a replay at Upton Park in two weeks time. Bolton probably overall had the best chances of the game but failed to take them. Another boring match on Saturday was the tie that looked the most glamorous, Liverpool against Manchester United at Anfield but it failed to live up to expectation and it was won by a Peter Crouch goal early during the first half. The game will be remembered mainly by the whole Alan Smith injury and we all wish him well!

The final game on Saturday was Newcastle against Southampton at St. James' Park. The game was decided only by one goal which came in the shape of out of sorts English man Kieron Dyer. Near the end of the game Southampton's inexperienced goalkeeper was stretchered off with a jarred knee and The Saints had already used all of their subs so substitue Dexter Blackstock went in and did very well, but Southampton just couldn't get that all important equaliser and they crash out in the fifth round.

Sunday's action was very tasty indeed with some lovely goals. Preston took on an in form Middlesbrough side for a place in the next round but Premiership experience was shown during the game by Boro. Yakubu bagged two lovely goals to ensure Steve McClaren's men went on into the next round. The worst game of the day was seen at the Brittania stadium where Stoke City tried to beat out of form Birmingham to qualify for the 6th round but they failed to do that. Birmingham running out 1-0 winners thank to a goal from Finnish striker Mikeal Forrsell.

Chelsea were hoping to avoid a cup upset when they entertained in form League 1 side Colchester United. Colchester started off the better and were rewarded half way throught the first half when Garcia placed a lovely ball into the box and the ball was turned in by Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho. But Chelsea came storming back and got an equaliser ten minutes later through Paulo Ferriera. Chelsea sealed the win with two late goals from substitue Joe Cole.

Aston Villa entertained Man City in the most awkward to predict 5th round matches. City started the better and only for a bad touch by former Villa man Darius Vassell they would of been in front. But City didn't take there chances and Villa counter attacked and scored through former Liverpool man Milan Baros. It looked as though that's the way it would finish but in virtually the last touch of the game, City's 17 year old defender Micah Richards grabbed an equaliser from a lovely corner from Joey Barton. The two sides will now play a replay in two weeks.
Here is the draw for the sixed round of the FA Cup :

Charlton v Middlesbrough (I predict: draw)

Aston Villa or Manchester City v Bolton or West Ham (Don't know yet)

Chelsea v Newcastle United (I predict: Chelsea 2-3 Newcastle)

Birmingham v Liverpool (I predict: Birmingham 1-2 Liverpool)

Smith in horror incident

Alan Smith will definetly not take further part in this season's Premiership campaign or in England's World Cup campaign in Germany in June after he suffered a horror injury during Manchester United's 1-0 defeat at the hands of Liverpool in the FA Cup 5th round match today at Anfield. It has been confirmed tonight by Manchester United staff that former Leeds United hard man has suffered a broken left leg and a dislocated left ankle. Smith was attempting to block a John Arne Riise free-kick when he landed very very awkwardly on his left leg and it came apparent straight away that something was wrong when Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van Der Sar waved franticly at the United physio's.

A grim-faced Ferguson said: "It's one of the worst I've seen. He's broken his leg and there's a dislocation of the ankle joint. "It's a very long-term injury - we're all behind him as he's a brave lad." The game was delayed by five minutes as Smith received treatment and was given oxygen as he was stretchered off. United's medical team were given help by Liverpool club doctor Mark Waller as the midfielder waited to be carried off.

Ferguson added: "I wasn't aware of what had happened because I was following the path of the ball, but you saw the reaction of the players round about Alan and you knew it was a bad one. "It is another bad blow for us and it sums up our season." Ferguson's counterpart, Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, was quick to offer his sympathy to Smith. "We're all so sorry and we can only wish him all the best for the future," he said.

This is obviously very very bad news for Man United and Alan Smith himself because he had only just returned from a ankle injury today and was brought on during the second half. Smith has been one of United's better players this season and for him to be out for what could be a whole season and a bit would be a devastating blow for the Red Devils. It was a very nice touch to see the Liverpool fans clap him off the Anfield turf. Get well soon Smithy!

Larsson to go back home

Barcelona striker Henrik Larsson has agreed to leave Barca at the end of the season to go back home to his hometown club of Helsingborg. The 34-year-old said in January that he would leave the Spanish champions at the end of the season and he has signed an 18-month deal with Helsingborg. Larsson told Swedish TV Channel SVT: "I am a Helsingborg man from the beginning and, for me, there was no alternative."

The striker joined Barcelona from Celtic in 2004 but missed most of last season with a knee injury. Larsson also came out of international retirement in order to help his country qualify for this year's World Cup finals.

I think that this is the best thing for Larsson because I'm sure he thaught at the start of his carrer that he would love to finish back home in Sweden. He has had a torrid time at Barcelona with injuries but in fairness to him he has never given up. I hope he has a great last few years to his carrer.

Club Profile: Manchester City

Name: Manchester City
Nickname: The Citizens

Manager: Stuart Pearce
Captain: Sylvain Distin

Stadium: City Of Manchester Stadium
Capacity: 48,000

Star Player: Joey Barton
One To Watch: Stephen Ireland
Young Gun: Micah Richards

Top goalscorer of all-time: Eric Brook (178 goals)
Most Appearances: Alan Oakes (668 games)

Profile:

Manchester City are one of the most topsy turvy clubs in all of England. One year they are in the lowest division in England then the next they are challenging for a UEFA Cup spot in the Premiership, but in recent years it seems as though they have managed to stabelise themselves. Many managers have come and failed at Man City but now the future looks bright at the club with their manager been tipped for the best job in England, the international team coach. Stuart Pearce has only been in charge of the club for around about 9 or 10 months and already he has been tipped for the England job. City have brought through many many youngsters from the youth system at City most notably, Joey Barton, Shaun Wright-Phillips (now of Chelsea) and Stephen Ireland and that's only naming three. Last season Man City were within a penalty kick from reaching the UEFA Cup and this season you certainly wouldn't bet against them going one better than last season.