Strain getting to Grant

Chelsea manager Avram Grant today hit out at the media after the sides Carling Cup final defeat last week.

The press had speculated that Grant was to be sacked if no trophy was won by the Israeli in his first season at the Premier League giants. In the press conference he hit out at those claims and he also criticised the media for taking the defeat way out of context.

It appears as though now the strain is getting to Grant. He has recently been sent death threats and it appears to me as though he hasn't been the same since them disgusting threats were sent to him.

Grant now realises that he could be out of a job if he does not lead Chelsea to some sort of success and in my view he will struggle to. I feel as though he made a couple of selection mistakes on Sunday and he payed the price.

The Carling Cup offered Grant the chance to win some silverware in his first season and not have to worry too much that he was going to be out of a job if nothing else was to follow. Grant also tried to play down reports of a rift between club captain John Terry and his assistant Henk Ten Cate.

Chelsea currently ly nine points off the lead in the Premier League and in my view will probably finish in their current position of third place. They have a big chance of reaching the semi's in the FA Cup with a home tie against Championship side Barnsley (although Liverpool found out it's not to easy to knock them out).

They have a home tie against Olympiacos in the Champions League in which they currently stand 0-0. I personally can't see Chelsea going all the way in Europe so I feel the FA Cup may turn out to be the thing that saves Grant, although I wouldn't bet on him being at Stamford Bridge next season.

Liverpool finally complete Mascherano deal... is £18 million too much for him?

Javier mascherano has today signed a four-and-a-half year deal with Liverpool after months of uncertainty over his future.

The Argentinian international has been at Liverpool for over a year now and has quickly established himself as a fan favourite as well as a starting place in Rafa Benitez' side.

"I am very, very happy and now I can concentrate just on playing football," Mascherano told Liverpoolfc.tv. "I said all along that I wanted to stay at Liverpool and now that I have signed I can say this is the best and the biggest moment in my career so far.

"From the first day I arrived at Liverpool the feeling was good and I knew this was where I wanted to play my football. The 23-year old has been linked with a possible move to Barcelona during the past few weeks but this news most definitely ends those rumours.

Although the figure hasn't been released it is thought that Liverpool spent around about the £18 million mark for the former West Ham midfielder. That is, in my view, slightly too much for Mascherano. I agree he is a good player but £18 million sounds a bit much to me.

Spurs move for £9million Liverpool target... while Madrid move for United star

Tottenham are targeting Espanyol defender Daniel Jarque according to reports in several of today's papers. The Daily Star also mentioned that Real Madrid are going to have one last shot at signing Man United midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Madrid-Ronaldo fiasco has taken another twist as reports today suggest that the La Liga side are ready to offer the Portuguese winger up to £8 million a year for his services... Ridiculous money but maybe not to much to offer for a player of his quality.

Daniel Jarque, 25, has been the subject of much speculation with a move to the Premier League looking very possible in the future. Liverpool and Spurs are supposedly the two sides looking to win the signature of the 6' 2" defender. It is expected that either side will have to pay up to £9 million for the Spanish international

Benzema to United, Milan or Barca?

It has been well documented in recent months that several top European clubs are lining up for the signature of Lyon striker Karim Benzema.

The French international has been dazzling interested parties with some terrific displays in recent months and all the talk is, is that either Barcelona, Man United, Arsenal or AC Milan will try and persuade to the 20-year old to leave Lyon.

Benzema was seen pictured with Lyon manager Alan Perrin and Man United boss Sir Alex Ferguson after the clash between the two sides last week.

They appeared to be getting on really well despite the fact that Benzema had previously stated that he was interested in a move to the Premier League.

There is talk that United will make £30 million bid for the player come the summer and in my view that could turn out to be money well spent. Lyon, have supposedly replied by saying that they want £45 million for Lyon number 10.

I personally hope Benzema comes to England and displays his superb talent in the Premier League. He has the ability to be, in my view, one of the best ever talents to come out of France ever. I do however feel that he may opt for La Liga and that would then see him join Barcelona.

Inter look to raid Arsenal for midfielder

According to reports in today's Daily Express, Inter Milan are interested in signing Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb.

The Belarus international has been linked with Barcelona as well as the Serie A giants in recent weeks as talk of a £14 million exit from Arsenal has heightened.

The 25-year old has been with the Gunners for three years now after joining from German side Stuttgart. He has quickly established himself as a firm fan favourite at Arsenal and there is no doubt Gunners boss Arsene Wenger will be keen to hold onto him.

Hleb is a quality player that has really impressed me over the last couple of years. He is very intelligent in his play and although he doesn't score a bag load of goals he makes up for that in assists.

Madrid target Liverpool ace

According to reports in today's Daily Star, Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Liverpool keeper Jose Pepe Reina.

The Spanish international has been at Anfield since leaving La Liga side Villarreal back in 2005 and has made over 100 appearances for the club.

Reina, 25, has become a instrumental part of the Liverpool team in recent years and is widely regarded as one of Europe's top keepers.

It is likely Benitez will look to fend off interest from Atletico but rumour has it Reina may be interested in a move back to Spain.

I am sure the large majority of Liverpool fans will be hoping to hold onto the Liverpool number 25. He has been one of the more consistent players in Liverpool's poor season to date.

Man United striker set for Reds switch !?

Man United striker Fraizer Campbell could be set for a move to Charlton during the Summer according to reports in the Daily Mirror today.

The 20 year old is currently on loan from United at Hull City and he has managed to bag 9 goals in a little over 20 appearances for the Championship side.

It is thought that his current good form has attracted the attention of Charlton boss Alan Pardew and the Londoners could be set to put in a £2 million Summer bid for the striker.

Spurs to hand Ramos £40 million transfer kitty as he targets Spanish and Portuguese stars

According to reports in various papers today, Tottenham manager Juande Ramos will have plenty of money to spend in the summer and he is already eyeing up his targets.

It is thought that Ramos will have as much as £40 million to spend on new players for Spurs and he is supposedly interested in Juventus midfielder Tiago and Sevilla winger Diego Capel.

Capel, 20, and Tiago, 26, have both been long term targets of the North London club and it is now thought that Ramos will spend around £15 million on the pair.

I feel both would be terrific signings for Spurs and I think it is only right that Ramos has plenty of money to spend given what he has done for the club. I feel he will bring some other top quality players to White Hart Lane and Spurs will be a serious contender for the top four next season.

Gunners look to beat Liverpool to £5 million Norwegian !

Arsenal are targeting Norwegian midfielder Per Ciljan Skjelbred according to reports in the Telegraph today.

The 20 year old Norwegian won a football talent competition, as a youth, on Norwegian television whose prize saw him train with the Liverpool first team.

He since signed for Rosenborg and has made over 40 appearances for the Norwegian outfit in the last few years. He has also gotten a full international cap after being called up to the Norwegian first team because of his impressive domestic performances.

It is thought tthat either Arsenal or Liverpool or both will put in a bid of up to £5 million for the midfielder once the English transfer window reopens this Summer.

Spurs run out deserved winners

Tottenham have today won the Carling Cup final after beating Chelsea 2-1 after extra-time.

Goals from Dimitar Berbatov and Jonathan Woodgate was enough for Spurs to win their first trophy in over nine years. Didier Drogba had put Chelsea in front but Juande Ramos' men weren't going to be beaten.

Terrific displays from Woodgate and Robbie Keane today but a lot of credit has to go to Spurs boss Juande Ramos. They are simply a different team ever since he has come in and this has been shown by the sides terrific form in recent months.

Congragulations Spurs!

Eduardo latest

Eduardo has today been moved from a hospital in Birmingham to one in London.

The Croatian international under went surgery on a double compound fracture of his leg after the incident on Saturday.

As you will all probably know by now that Edurado was injured whilst playing for Arsenal in his side's 2-2 draw with Birmingham.

His leg was so badly injured several big tv stations including BBC and Sky Sports refused to show it.

Get well soon Eduardo.

Madrid to bid £50 million for Liverpool star

According to reports in today's News of the World, Real Madrid are planning a £50 million bid for Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard.

The England international has been linked with several moves away from Anfield in recent years, with Real always said to be holding a keen interest in the 27-year old.

Gerrard has been at Liverpool since he was a teenager and has established himself as a firm fan favourite. He is also regarded as one of the best midfield players in the world and it is thought now that Real will make a whopping £50 million bid for him come the summer time.

Obviously every Reds fan will be hoping this is just pure speculation and that Gerrard would never leave the club but after another mediocre season under Rafa Benitez he may decide to move on. I personally don't see Real bidding as much as £50 million for him but I may be wrong.

City sign Sunderland star !

Stoke City have completed the loan signing of Marton Fulop from Sunderland. The 24 year old joins the Championship outfit until the end of the season.

The keeper is third in line for a place at the Stadium of Light with both £9 million rated Craig Gordon and Darren Ward beating the former Spurs man to the starting eleven. He moves to Stoke where he is not guaranteed but more likely to get a place in the team.

United set to swoop for £15 million Hoops star !

Newcastle are reportedly trying to sign Celtic midfielder Aiden McGeady according to reports in the Daily Record today.

The Irish international has made over a hundred appearances for the Hoops since breaking into the first team in 2004 and has managed more than twenty goals in that time. He also has 17 first team caps for Ireland under his belt.

The speedy left winger has supposedly attracted the attention of several Premier League managers including that of Newcastle's Kevin keegan.

It is thought though that the Glasgow side will not even consider offers of less than £12 million for the 21 year old. Personally I would love to see McGeady in the Premier League, I think that outside Celtic and Rangers, the SPL is too poor a league for a player of his quality.

Milan line up £25 million Gunners star !

AC Milan are supposedly lining up a bid for Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor in the Summer transfer window according to reports in the Daily Mirror today. It comes after the long term injury of Milan's Brazilian striker Ronaldo.

The Togo international has come on a lot this season and even finds himself as the league's top scorer along with United's Cristiano Ronaldo. His good form is thought to have caught the attention of Milan gaffa Carlo Ancelotti.

Personally I think that this rumour is a tad unrealistic, not that Milan are a bad side but Adebayor seems to be at home at Arsenal and I for one can see him there for many years yet.

Chelsea star once again linked with Barca

According to reports from Goal, Frank Lampard may be on his way to Barcelona after all.

The England international has been linked with numerous moves to the La Liga giants over the past few months as talks with the club stalled over a new contract.

It is believed now that Lampard has had a fallen out with manager Avram Grant about his possible inclusion/exclusion from the Chelsea side to play Tottenham in the Carling Cup final on Sunday.

I must say I think there is a big chance that Lampard will join Barca in the summer. He has been a terrific servant to Chelsea over the years since joining from West Ham all those years ago.

Huge injury blows for both Arsenal and United !

West Ham have suffered a massive blow after losing Craig Bellamy for the next six weeks after the Welsh star had to undergo foot surgery. Arsenal also have a set back with centre half Kolo Toure set to miss the next three weeks.

The Hammers will miss their striker dearly as 5 of their next 6 games includes Everton, Blackburn, Spurs, Liverpool and Chelsea.

While the Gunners have a slightly easier fixture list over the next few weeks there is no doubt that Kolo Toure will still be a huge loss for the league leaders.

United and Barca battle it out for £15 million German ace

According to reports in today's Daily Mail, Manchester United and Barcelona are likely to fight it out for Bayern Munich defender Philipp Lahm come the opening of the summer transfer window.

The Germany international is widely regarded as one of the best left-backs in Europe and he has alerted the attention of both Frank Rijkaard and Sir Alex Ferguson with his displays for the Bundesliga giants.

The 24-year old has been with Bayern for over 6 years now and it has been speculated that he may want to leave the club and pick up a new challenge. It is thought that Bayern will only listen to offers of around about £15 million for the defender.

Lahm, in my view, is a terrific player that would be a great addition to either side. The first time Lahm really came to my notice was during the 2006 World Cup and I must say he had a terrific tounament.

England striker set for move to the Championship

Ipswich Town boss Jim Magilton has today confirmed that he approached Portsmouth with the possibility of taking out-of-form striker David Nugent loan until the end of the season.

The England international has failed thus far to settle at pompey and has hardly figured for the side this season leading to reports of a possible move to the Championship with several side including Preston and Ipswich said to be interested.

Nugent, 22, moved to Pompey during the summer from Preston for a fee belived to be in the region of £6 million and has scored just twice for the club, both in cup competitions."Nugent is a possibility," Magilton told the Ipswich Evening Star. "We have asked Portsmouth about taking him on loan and they have not ruled it out.

"We are well aware if he did come he is not at 100%, but he is making massive strides to get fit, so we will wait and see what happens. "He loves Portman Road and he loves scoring goals here, so it would be good to have him in a Blues shirt."

I feel it would be for the best for Nugent to move to Ipswich and starting scoring goals again in the Championship. Many people thought when he was at Preston that he would be a terrific goalscorer in the Premier League but so far that hasn't been the case.

Man United target £15 million Portuguese star, but face competition from Gunners !

Man United are targeting Sporting's defender Miguel Veloso, according to reports in today's Daily Mirror.

The Portuguese international has been linked with several moves to Old Trafford over the past few months and it is now thought that Sir Alex Ferguson will rekindle his interests in the player this Summer.

Veloso, 21, has been at Sporting since 2006 making over 25 appearances for the club and is yet to get off the mark in terms of goals. He has also 4 caps to his name for Portugal and is widely regarded as one of the hottest prospects to come out of the country in years.

The sooner Veloso comes to the Premier League the better. He is a terrific player that in my view would be capable of getting a place in almost any side. He is currently valued at £15 million and he is worth every penny of that.

Ireland fans: Everything you need to know about Trapattoni

For those Ireland fans who are a bit unfamiliar with the name Giovanni Trapattoni here is a brief summary of the Italian Stallion's career.

Born: March 17 1939 (age 68)

Clubs managed:
1974–1976... AC Milan

1976–1986... Juventus

1986–1991... Inter Milan

1991–1994... Juventus

1994–1995... FC Bayern

1995–1996... Cagliari

1996–1998... FC Bayern

1998–2000... Fiorentina

2000–2004... Italy

2004–2005... Benfica

2005–2006... Stuttgart

2006–2008... Red Bull Salzburg

Clubs played for: (Defender)

1959–1971... AC Milan

1971–1972... Varese

Honours:

--AC Milan

Coppa Italia:
Runner-up: 1974–75

--Juventus

Serie A: 1977, 1978, 1981, 1982, 1984, 1986
Runners-up: 1980, 1983, 1992, 1994
Coppa Italia: 1979, 1983
Runners-up: 1992
European Cup: 1985
Runners-up: 1983
Cup Winners Cup: 1984
UEFA Cup : 1977, 1993
European Super Cup: 1984
Intercontinental Cup: 1985

--Inter
Serie A : 1988–89
UEFA Cup: 1990–91

--FC Bayern Munich
Bundesliga: 1996–97
Runners-up: 1997–98
German Cup: 1997–98

--AC Fiorentina
Coppa Italia
Runners-up: 1998–99

--SL Benfica
SuperLiga: 2004–05
Taça de Portugal
Runners-up: 2004–05.

--FC Red Bull Salzburg
T-Mobile Bundesliga: 2006–07

I think in Trapattoni we are obviously getting experience but his record clearly shows that he has the ability to win titles, maybe that seems like a distant dream for Ireland but I would be just happy for him to bring us to a major competition, which I think he can and will do.

Spurs and Arsenal target open to move

According to reports in today's Daily Telegraph, Arsenal and Tottenham target, Diego Capel is flatterred by the interest from the two north London clubs and would be interested in a move.

The Sevilla winger has been linked with several moves to both Spurs and Arsenal over the past few months and there was talk last month that Spurs had made a £8 million bid for the player.

Capel, 20, has been with Sevilla since 2004 after joining the club as a youth and has since then made steady progress into the first team at the La Liga giants.

I have seen Capel on numerous occasions now and I must say he is a talent and would be a terrific addition to either Arsene Wenger's or Juande Ramos' sides. I feel Spurs may just have the edge seen as though Capel played under Ramos at Sevilla.

£20 million United, Arsenal and Spurs target not interested in move to England

Lyon striker Karem Benzema has today stated that he would rather move to Spain or Italy rather than move to England.

The French international has been linked with several moves to the Premier League in recent weeks and months with Spurs, Man United and Arsenal all said to be interested in the 20-year old.

"I like the Spanish and Italian leagues," he told Don Balon."The Premier League does not hold too much attraction to me.

"Although they have great teams and I consider that I could play there, the style of game they play does not attract me. "I love La Liga because they play beautiful football there.

This is obviously a big blow for the sides involved because Benzema would of been a terrific acquistion for any of the three clubs. He is only 20 and in my view he has the ability to become one of France's best ever players.

United and Chelsea go head to head for Italian starlet

According to reports in today's Daily Telegraph, Manchester United and Chelsea are to battle it out for the signature of Reggina's Vincenzo Camilleri.

The Italian under-16 international has been impressive in his displays for the Reggina youth team and has prompted interest from the Premier League giants.

The 16-year old defender is also attracting interest from a club a little closer to home in Inter Milan and it will be interesting to see who he joins if he leaves Reggina.

Man United and Spurs chase African "WONDERKID" !

Tottenham and United are set to do battle for Congo international Paul Jose Mpoklu accoreding to reports in the Daily Mirror yesterday.

The 15 year old has been tracked by both Juande Ramos and Alex Ferguson's scouts in recent times and it is almost certain now that he will be making a move from his current side Standard Liege to either of the above clubs once he turns 16.

The defender said in a recent interview, "I will have to wait a few months before I make a decision. Now I have Manchester United to think about too. But I did enjoy London and went to the Tottenham-Wigan game and it was fantastic."

"I have spoken a lot with my cousin and he gives me good advice. I love English football, they have great players and the atmosphere in the stadiums is amazing.”

Celtic target Boruc replaement?

According to reports in today's Daily Mirror, Celtic are interested in Bolton Wanderers keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.

The 32-year old is likely to leave the Reebok stadium at the end of the season as his contract expires and several top European clubs are said to be interested in Jaaskelainen.

The Finland international has been with Bolton since 1997 after joining from VPS and has made over 330 appearances for the Premier League club.

It was also reported last week that Celtic keeper Artur Boruc could be on his way to AC Milan and many see Jaaskelainen coming in to replce the Polish international, including myself. I feel if Celtic were to sign Jussi it would be a really terrific signing considering he wouldn't cost a penny.

Liverpool to bring in one £20 million midfielder at the expense of another

According to several reports today, Liverpool are interested in bringing in Real Madrid midfielder Mahamadou Diarra at the expense of current Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso.

It was confirmed today by Diarra's agent that Liverpool had contacted him about the availability of the 26-year old.

"We were also contacted by Liverpool, Milan and Juventus. Diarra still has three years left on his contract but we're willing to listen to all the offers and then we will talk to Real and see what is decided." Frederic Guerra (Diarra's agent), told the News of the World.

Diarra has been at Real since leaving French side Lyon back in 2006 and has made over 50 appearances for the La Liga giants. He has lost his place in recent months to the in form Gago and this has led to intense speculation about his future at the club.

Meanwhile, it is thought that Liverpool will have to offload another midfielder before they can even think of bringing in Diarra and the man to make way could be Xabi Alonso. The 26-year old is attracting the attentions of Spanish giants Barcelona.

Alonso has been linked with several moves away from Anfield in recent months after losing his place to Javier Mascherano and several sides including Atletico Madrid are said to be interested in the former Real Sociedad man.

All in all I think it would be a good deal for the Reds to bring in a player of the quality of Diarra. He is a very strong and physical central midfield player and would be a terrific replacement for Alonso if he were to leave Rafa Benitez' side.

Liverpool, Spurs, Real and Juve chase £15 million Brazilian

According to reports in today's News of the World, Liverpool, Tottenham, Real Madrid and Juventus are all interested in Weder Bremen playmaker Diego.

The Brazilian international is attracting the attentions of several top European clubs with some terrific displays in the Bundesliga with Bremen.

The 22-year old has been with Bremen since 2006 after leaving Portuguese giants Porto. He has made over 50 appearances for Bremen and has scored an impressive 22 goals in that period.

I personally would love to see Diego in the Premier League. He is a terrific attacking midfielder that scores just as many goals as some of the top strikers. I feel £15 million would be a reasonable price for the Brazilian.

Juve preparing £12 million bid for Gunners star

According to reports in today's Mirror, Juventus are preparing a summer bid for Arsenal left-back Gael Clichy.

Clichy has been one of Arsenal's top performers this season as the side currently sit five points clear of Manchester United at the top of the Premier League.

Juve are rumoured to be preparing a £12 million bid for the Frenchman but it is unlikely that Gunners boss Arsene Wenger will let the 22-year old leave the Emirates in the summer.

Clichy has been terrific this season for the Gunners and it doesn't surprise me one bit that a top side like Juve are interested in him. He has the potential to become an Arsenal legend and I am sure he will stay for a long time to come.

Spurs eye £6 million former Liverpool star

According to reports in today's Mail on Sunday, Tottenham are interested in Portsmouth keeper David James.

It is no secret that Spurs boss Juande Ramos is keen on adding a new keeper to the Spurs ranks with Paul Robinson currently way out of form and James is attracting the Spaniard's attentions.

James, 37, has been at pompey for a season and a half now after leaving Manchester City back in 2006. He has previously played with Liverpool, Aston Villa and West Ham and has over 35 caps for his country.

I would be very surprised to see Spurs spend money on someone like James. I can't deny he has been very good over the past few years but I don't see Ramos spending 5 or 6 million on a player that realistically has two, maybe three seasons left before he retires.

£20 million Gunners target set to snub rivals, United !

Lyon striker Karim Benzema has reportedly snubbed a move to Manchester United according to reports in the News of the World today.

The Lyon number 10 has bagged 49 goals in 77 appearances for the French side and 3 goals for his international side.

The 20 year old has supposeedly been a long term target of several Premier League high fliers, however it appears now as though the French international will not be making his way to Old Trafford. This may indicate that Arsenal have been in talks with the £20 million rated striker.

Celtic star is a £10 million target of AC Milan

According to reports in today's Daily Mail, AC Milan are keen on bringing Celtic keeper Artur Boruc to the San Siro in the summer.

The Polish international has been linked with several exits from Celtic in recent months with Premier League giants Arsenal also said to be interested in Boruc who has threatened to quit the Old Firm club in the past.

The 27-year old is supposedly one of Carlo Ancelotti's number one targets for this summers transfer window and it is believed that Boruc would be interested in a move to the Serie A side.

Boruc has spent three years at Celtic and has been a terrific keeper for them. He is widely regarded as one of the best keepers in Europe and in my view would be a good signing for AC and would be an instans success with them.

Only the FA Cup, but this result could have further implications on Gunners title challenge

Manchester United have tonight beaten Premier League rivals Arsenal 4-0 in tonight's fifth round FA Cup tie.

Goals from Rooney, Fletcher (2) and Nani sealed an emphatic win for the Champions as United hammered their rivals.

Arsenal currently lye five points clear of United in the league but in my view will struggle to hold onto that advantage if they perform anything like they did tonight.

It was very clear to see from Arsenal's team selection tonight that their priorities lye elsewhere but in my view this defeat may have further implications for the north London team in the run in.

Both Ferguson and Wenger left out their top scorers in Ronaldo and Adebayor, the latter coming on as a second half substitute. It was clear from the first whistle that United were up for it and Arsenal simply weren't.

Despite all their injuries Arsenal's side still contained a dozen or so first team regulars so at this present moment in time I wouldn't feel too comfortable if I were a Gunners fan. I feel next weeks Premier League results will tell a lot of whether or not that was just a one off for Arsenal or whether it really does affect them.

It will certainly go right down to the wire for this seasons Premier League title but if I myself had to pick someone now I would be tipping Sir Alex Ferguson's men just to edge out the Gunners.

Liverpool's miserable season just got worse... Benitez to be sacked?

Liverpool's miserable season reached an all-time low today as they crashed out of the FA Cup at the hands of Championship side Barnsley.

It all looked to be going well for the Reds when Dirk Kuyt put the Premier League side in the lead after a half an hour of the game but Barnsley came out in the second half and snatched a goal just before the hour mark.

Stephen Foster the Barnsley hero as he headed home from a Martin Devaney cross. It looked as though the tie would go to a replay but an injury time goal from Brian Howard prevented that and sent the travelling Barnsley fans into mayhem.

Liverpool got into the fifth round of the FA Cup by narrowly escaping an embarrassing result against non-league side Havant & Waterlooville and today weren't as lucky.

Rafa Benitez' men currently lye fifth in the Premier League three points behind arch rivals Everton and the same margin outside a Champions League place. They face Inter Milan in midweek in the first knock-out round of the Champions League and if today's performance is to go by they will be hammered by the Serie A side.

Benitez has this season been under pressure by new owners Tom Hicks and George Gillet and this result will only pile more and more pressure on the Spaniard. Although I can't see the Americans sacking Benitez just yet I feel if they fail to get a result on Tuesday then it may be time for Benitez to pack his bags and leave Anfield.

What do you think? Will Benitez be sacked or will he survive?

Gunners target £12 million Milan ace

According to reports in Tuttosport, Arsenal are keeping tabs on AC Milan attacking midfielder Yoann Gourcuff's situation at the club after he said he wanted to leave earlier this week.

The 21-year old was completely left out of Milan's squad to face Siena last week and Gourcuff has apparently told senior officials at the Serie A giants that he will be looking to leave in the summer.

The France under-21 international has been with AC since joining them back in 2006 from French side Rennes. He has made over 25 appearances for Milan scoring twice in the process.

It is believed Arsene Wenger will offer Milan £12 million for the player's services and the club may be forced to accept. I have seen Gourcuff on a few occasions now and I must say he looks a very promising talent and I feel he would blossom under the guidance of fellow country man Arsene Wenger.

Newcastle weigh up bids for United, Chelsea and West Ham stars

According to reports in today's Sun, Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan is preparing bids for Man United defender Wes Brown, Chelsea left-back Wayne Bridge and West Ham striker Dean Ashton.

The Magpies boss has been told he does have money to spend in the summer after taking the Newcastle hot seat last month. Keegan has been linked with several players since his arrival last month but it is now believed he has set his sights on the trio of Borwn, Bridge and Ashton.

Ashton, 24, Brown, 28 and Bridge, 27, have all been linked with moves away from their respective clubs in recent months and it is thought that all are interested in moves in the summer. It is likely that the Magpies will have to splash out as much as £20 million for the trio.

All three in my view would be good additions to the Newcastle squad but I feel Keegan should be concentrating on keeping the Magpies in the Premier League at the moment rather than looking for new signings. He has only managed to pick up two points since returning to the club and that is clearly relegation type form.

Latest picture of Ronaldo

This is the latest picture of AC Milan's Ronaldo as he recovers from a ruptured tendon in his knee. Get well soon Ronaldo!

Irish Blog Awards nomination

I have today found out that Football Corner has been nominated for the Best Sports and Recreation at the Irish Blog awards.

This has to be the single most greatest thing that has ever happened for this blog so I would just like to thank the people that nominated the blog and I would also like to wish all the other nominees good luck (yeah right!).

Spurs lead Arsenal in the race to sign £8.5 million Spaniard

It has been rumoured today that Tottenham are winning the race to sign Sevilla winger Diego Capel who is also wanted by north London rivals Arsenal.

Capel has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time now with both Spurs and Arsenal holding a keen interest in the 19-year old.

"I can say that he still has three years left on his contract at Sevilla and that there is a clause set at £8.5million,” agent Rene Ramos told calciomercato.com.

Spurs boss Juande Ramos has worked with Capel during his time as manager at Sevilla and it is thought that Ramos will make a move once the window opens in the summer. I have seen Capel a few times now and must say he looks something special and I am hoping he moves to England in the summer.

United target £8 million Liverpool star

According to reports in today's Daily Mirror, Newcastle United are keeping tabs on Dirk Kuyt's situation at Liverpool.

The Dutch striker has had a poor season to date with many Liverpool fans calling for him to be sold and Magpies boss Kevin Keegan is supposedly interested in offering Liverpool £8 million for the 27-year old.

Kuyt has made over 50 appearances for Liverpool since joining from Feyenoord back in 2005 and has scored a total of 15 goals in that time but this season has been extremly dissapointing.

I think every Liverpool fan would be pretty happy to see Kuyt leave the club and I feel £8 million would be a lot of money for such a poor footballer. Kevin Keegan will have money to spend in the summer but I don't think he should be looking for someone like Kuyt.

£9 million Liverpool star attracting attentions of Villa

According to reports in today's Daily Mirror, Aston Villa are preparing a £9 million bid for Liverpool striker Peter Crouch.


Crouch has been linked with numerous amounts of exits from Anfield in recent months with several clubs including Newcastle and Man City also said to be interested in the England international.

Crouch has been at Liverpool for two and a half seasons now and he still hasn't managed to nail down a first team place under Rafa Benitez but many fans feel he deserves more of a chance.

I would not be at all surprised to see Crouch leave Liverpool in the summer and with the huge English contingent at Villa Park the 27-year old may bet tempted to move. I am sure a lot of Liverpool fans will be hoping to hold onto the six foot seven striker come the summer transfer window.

Liverpool challenge Chelsea and Spurs for £20 million Brazilian

According to reports in several papers today, Liverpool are the latest club to show an interest in Sevilla defender Dani Alves.

The Brazilian international has long been linked with a move to the Premier League with Chelsea and Tottenham also said to be interested in 24-year old.

Alves is supposedly desperate to leave Sevilla in the summer and it is thought that La Liga giants will only listen to offers of £20 million + for their star player.

The sooner Alves moves to the Premier League the better. He is a quality right-back who also has an eye for goal and in my mind would be an instant success in England. I tend to favour Chelsea to win the race for Alves signature for no apparent reason.

Newcastle and West Ham to do battle for £6 million England defender

Newcastle United and West Ham United are likely to do battle for Reading defender Nicky Shorey after Reading called off contract talks with the player.


Shorey has said in the past that he may leave the Madjeski in the summer and Royals director of football Nick Hammond told the Reading Evening Post:

“In all honesty I think we will look again in the summer and see what the situation is then. “He still has a year on his contract to run after this season.”

Shorey has two England caps to his name and is widely regarded as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League. The 26-year old has been at Reading since 2001 after joining from Leyton Orient.

I must say I am pretty sure Shorey will leave the Royals in the summer but I am not sure who he will elect to join. If he joins West Ham he won't have to move house but if he decides to move to the north of England with Newcastle he will inevitably have to move house and that is why I am slightly leaning towards Shorey joining the Hammers.

£23 million Liverpool striker talking about exit after only eight months

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has today failed to rule out a move to Italian giants AC Milan.

Torres joined the Reds in the summer from Spanish side Atletico Madrid for a fee believed to be in the region of £20-23 million.

The Spanish striker has been an instant success at Anfield scoring over a dozen goals for Rafa Benitez' men and is rapidly becoming a Liverpool legend.

"Relations between Atletico and Milan have always been excellent, and the possibility has been discussed, but I never got a precise offer from Milan,” Torres told La Stampa.

“I am very grateful to Milan because, since I was a child, I dreamed of playing for such a big club. “But the interest of Milan has never pushed to the point of having to decide whether to go or not.

"At this moment, I would not go. I am happy in Liverpool and The Premier League and I hope to stay for a long time. Never say never, though.”

I am sure every Liverpool fan will be pretty worried by Torres' comments but I am sure he's not going anywhere for the near future. Torres is only 23 and I am sure he will have many great seasons at Liverpool but I do forsee him moving on in maybe four or five years from now.

Gunners star to reject Barca by signing new contract

Cesc Fabregas is in talks with Arsenal over a new long-term contract with the club to all but end speculation of a move to Barcelona.

Fabregas, 21, has been at Arsenal for four seasons now and has rapidly become a Gunners legend at the Emirates and this news will come to the delight of all Arsenal fans.

Fabregas told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser: "I have six years remaining and they are interested in renegotiating. "I want to succeed at Arsenal and the club wants me. I am from Barcelona and have played there, but I only think of winning many titles here."

This is obviously terrific news for Arsenal and Arsene Wenger that Fabregas is going to sign a new deal at the club. He is a terrific player that will undoubtedly become one of Arsenal's greatest ever players if he remains with the North London club.

Celtic chase Liverpool and City stars

According to reports in several papers in recent days, Celtic are planning summer moves for both Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia and Manchester City captain Richard Dunne.

The Hoops have been linked with the pair for some time now and in recent days the rumours have heightened about the players futures at their current clubs.

Dunne, 28, is a Celtic fan and is currently stalling over a contract offer from City. He feels he deserves more money than he is being offered (around about £35,000) and I would tend to agree with the Republic of Ireland star.

Hyypia, 34, is likely to be sold in the summer as Rafa Benitez will have several quality centre-backs next season at his disposal in Dan Agger, Martin Skrtel and Jamie Carragher.

I feel the Hyypia transfer may yet happen but I don't see Dunne going north of the border. Dunne has struck up a terrific partnership with Micah Richards in recent months and I feel the club will give in and give him the money he wants.

United boss gets the chop

Bryan Robson has today been sacked as Sheffield United manager.

Ronaldo injury not as serious as first feared

It was reported on Tuesday that AC Milan striker Ronaldo's career hung in the balance after he was stretchered off in tears during AC's game with livorno at the weekend.

The Brazilian striker has had numerous injuries since he joined AC just over a year ago now but this seemed to be by far the most serious of the lot and it could end the 30-year old's career.

But AC manager Carlo Ancelotti has rubbished the rumours about Ronaldo retiring due to his latest injury and said “Is Ronaldo retiring? You would have to ask him about that,”

“But he seems fit to me and I haven’t heard anything from him. “If he finds fitness, his contract will be renewed,” Ancelotti maintained.

It's official, Premier League going global is bad for the game

According to a recent poll run on Football Corner, You the readers have voted that the Premier League going global is bad for the game.

The amount of votes saying that going global was good was only half the number that said it was bad for the English game.

Results:

Good: 120 votes (28%)
Bad: 242 votes (52%)
Not Sure: 52 votes (12%)

I would just like to say thank you to everyone who voted and I would encourage you all to vote in the lates poll on the top right of the page.

Gunners weigh up move for Barca ace

According to reports in today's Telegraph, Arsenal are weighing up a move for Barcelona defender Lilian Thuram.

The player is likely to leave the Spanish giants in the summer and there have been reports that he woudl like to move to a different club with a player-coaching role.

The 36-year old has a massive 137 caps for his counrty France and has played for the likes of Juventus and Parma is his long and industrious career.

I would like to see Thuram move to the Premier League in the summer because he is a legend in the game. I doubt he would play much for the Gunners but his experience and knowledge on the training field would be terrific for the youngsters coming through at the Emirates.

Milan look to prise £30 million Liverpool star away from Anfield

According to reports in Tuttosport, Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has today said he will do everything he can to bring Liverpool captain Steve Gerrard to the club at the end of the season.

Gerrard has been linked with several moves away from Anfield in recent years with Chelsea and Real Madrid said to be keen admirers of the 27-year old.

There had been speculation around Liverpool that if the Reds board sack Rafa Benitez at the end of the season then that would lead to a mass exodus of players including Gerrard.

Next season marks Inter’s centenary and Moratti claims he will spend big in the summer to mark the momentous occasion for the club and Gerrard is one of his top targets. It would be an awful shame to see Gerrard leave the Premier League but with liverpool struggling for fourth place and the possible dismissal of Benitez it may yet happen.

Liverpool eye £20 million Alonso replacement

According to reports in Tuttosport, Liverpool are interested in Real Madrid midfielder Mahamadou Diarra.

The player may be let leave Madrid in the summer due to the terrific form of Real midfielder Fernando Gago which has seen Diarra lose his place.

Diarra has only returned to the Santiago Bernabeu after representing Mali in the recent African Cup of Nations. Diarra, 26, has been linked with a move to the Premier League before with Man United supposedly interested in him before his move to Real two years ago.

With the possible departure of Xabi Alonso in the summer I can see Diarra maybe joining Rafa Benitez' men. He is a strong midfielder who I think would be a superb addition to the Liverpool squad although I don't see Benitez paying up the rumoured £20 million for the former Lyon man.

Adebayor or Ronaldo?

They are currently tied at 19 a piece. With only 12 games to go in the Premier League many people have asked the question, who will win the accolade of the Premier League's top scorer for the 2007/2008 season.

Both players have had terrific seasons to date and that has been reflected in their sides, Man United and Arsenal's, seasons so far. Arsenal are currently 5 points clear at the top of the table and it is bound to be very close come the start of May.

But why I want to know is, who will win the top scorer. If I had to guess at this moment in time I would probably say Adebayor but I want to know what you think?

Gunners to lose Wenger to Barca

According to reports in Spain today, Barcelona have made Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger their top target to replace current under pressure boss Frank Rijkaard.

Barca are currently lying 8 points behind top of the table Real Madrid in La Liga and many people in Spain feel Rijkaard will be gone once the season comes to an end.

Jose Mourinho, Marco Van Basten and many others have been mentioned as possible replacements to Rijkaard but it is now thought that Wenger is the preferred choice of the Barca board.

Wenger has been at the Gunners for twelve years now and is now regarded as a legend at the club. He has won numerous amounts of trophies at the North London club including three Premier League titles.

It would be a real shame to see Wenger leave the Premier League and I am sure everyone at Arsenal will be doing their upmost to fend off interest from Barcelona. But you never know, if Wenger wins the title this season he may think he has done enough at the Gunners and move onto something else.