понедельник, 31 января 2011 г.

Deadline day | Sky Sports | Menu +Home | Skysports

Skysports.comandSky Sports Newswill bring you the best coverage of transfer deadline day with the window closing at 11pm on Monday.

You can stay right up to date with all the breaking news, speculation, deals and drama on what is certain to be the busiest day of the transfer window.

Skysports.com'sTransfer Clockwatchwill bring you minute-by-minute updates of all the deals from around the country as they happen.

And our dedicatedTransfer Centregives you all the details you will need on what has happened so far and you can check out the individual activity of every club or look at the completed deals in each league.

Sky Sports News'legion of dedicated reporters will be using their unrivalled contacts and sources to stay at the forefront of all the major stories of the day.

The breaking news ticker is expected to be in overdrive from 10am as Charlotte Jackson and Ed Chamberlin guide you through the morning events. Then from 3pm it's Georgie Thompson and Simon Thomas while Jim White and Hayley McQueen will be on your screens to take you through to the 11pm deadline.

For those vital snippets of information, follow our reporters onTwitter. Clickhereto find out how to add us.

And you can even have your say on your club's transfer activity once the dust has settled by joiningskysports.com'slive online debate at lunchtime on Tuesday to discuss how you feel your club has fared.

So stay withSky Sportsthroughout the day on Monday for our unrivalled and comprehensive coverage of what is always one of the most enthralling days of the season.


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суббота, 29 января 2011 г.

Keane claim baffles Redknapp | Sky Sports | Football | News

Harry Redknapp insists Robbie Keane never got as far as discussing terms with Birmingham, despite what they may claim.

The Blues saw a£6million bid for the Irish striker accepted by Tottenham last week, seemingly paving the way for a move to be made.

However, Alex McLeish's side pulled the plug on a deal, citing a failure to meet Keane's personal demands as their reason for stepping aside.

Those claims have come as something of a surprise to Spurs boss Redknapp, as he says the 30-year-old never even met with Birmingham officials.

He feels the Blues have acted in an 'unfair' manner and is at a loss to explain why they felt the need to concoct an elaborate story to try and cover their backs.

Strange

"There was never a deal with Birmingham,"said Redknapp, who is willing to let Keane leave White Hart Lane during the January transfer window.

"He never asked Birmingham for money.

"He never got around to discussing a deal with them so when they said they couldn't meet his wage demands that was totally unfair on Robbie because he never made any demands. He never even spoke to them.

"I don't see how the deal could've fallen down on wage demands when he didn't make any. That's a strange one."


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пятница, 28 января 2011 г.

Double swoop for Bluebirds | Sky Sports | Football | News

Cardiff have moved to bolster their resources by agreeing a one-month loan deal for Arsenal youngster Aaron Ramsey and signing Dekel Keinan from Blackpool.

Gunners boss Arsene Wengersuggested earlier on Fridaythat 20-year-old Ramsey, who arrived at the Emirates from the Bluebirds in a£5million deal during June 2008, was poised to head back to his old club on a short-term contract.

And a statement on Cardiff'sofficial websiteon Friday evening confirmed a deal has been agreed.

It read:"Following comments made by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger on Friday, Cardiff City are pleased to confirm that an agreement has been reached between clubs to see Aaron Ramsey rejoin the Bluebirds on loan."

"The paperwork is yet to be completed, with Aaron travelling to south Wales this evening with a view to sign on Saturday morning. The loan agreement is set to run until 26 February and includes our npower Championship match against Hull City."

Wales international Ramsey has just returned to fitness following a broken leg suffered at Stoke in February, and had a spell at Nottingham Forest to get some much-needed match practice.

Signing

Meanwhile, Israeli international Keinan has joined the Bluebirds for an undisclosed fee from Blackpool.

Skysports.comreported on Wednesdaythat a Cardiff contract was in the offing for the 26-year-old, who arrived at Bloomfield Road on a free transfer from Maccabi Haifa in the summer.

Keinan failed to make an impact at the promoted club, making just five starts for the Tangerines.

He arrives at the Cardiff City Stadium on a two-and-a-half-year deal.


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четверг, 27 января 2011 г.

Fulham in Konchesky talks | Sky Sports | Football | News

Skysports.comunderstands Liverpool are in advanced talks with Fulham over a possible return to Craven Cottage for Paul Konchesky.

Konchesy has dropped out of the picture at Anfield in recent weeks following the appointment of Kenny Dalglish as manager.

The left-back was brought to Merseyside from the West London club in the summer by former Cottagers boss Roy Hodgson.

However, the defender has endured a difficult time in trying to win over the Reds fans and he has not played since Dalglish replaced Hodgson earlier this month.

Escape route

Fulham are now ready to offer Konchesky an escape route out of Anfield and a quick return to his former club by taking him on loan for the remainder of the season.

Mark Hughes is in the market for a new left-back with Mexican defender Carlos Salcido reportedly failing to settle to life in England.

A number of clubs are thought to have made enquiries to ask about Konchesky's availability, but because he has already played for Fulham and Liverpool this season, the only club he can join during this month's transfer window is the Cottagers because of Fifa regulations.

Fulham are now hoping to reach an agreement with Liverpool to sign Konchesky before the transfer window closes on Monday.


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среда, 26 января 2011 г.

Canaries secure Lansbury loan | Sky Sports | Football | News

Norwich City have agreed new terms with Arsenal to extend Henri Lansbury's loan spell at the club.

Lansbury made five appearances for the club during his first loan spell last year, making enough of an impression to lead the Championship side to pursue an extended deal.

The 20-year-old midfielder is set to rejoin the Norwich squad on Monday, meaning that, although he will miss Saturday's trip to Sheffield United, the player will be available up until the end of the season.

The loan stint until 31st May could also include the tantalising prospect of the play-offs for the club that currently sit fourth in the Championship.


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понедельник, 24 января 2011 г.

Fergie ends Cats' Welbeck hope | Sky Sports | Football | News

Sir Alex Ferguson has warned that Steve Bruce has no chance of signing Danny Welbeck on a permanent basis.

The striker has been in great form on loan at Sunderland this season, netting six times for Steve Bruce.

The 20-year-old got off to an inconsistent start to his career at Old Trafford, yet it appears his loan spell has convinced his manager that his future belongs in a United shirt.

With Michael Owen unlikely to be handed a new contract in the summer, it would appear that Welbeck is in line to fill the fourth-choice striker role for United.

When asked about the chances of his former player signing his current striker, Ferguson' response was tongue-in-cheek.

"Steve has as much chance of getting me,"said Ferguson.

"It is unfortunate Danny will be out for six weeks because he was playing so well. He has shown fantastic form and he is only 20.

"He has a long way to go yet but the signs are good for him."


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воскресенье, 23 января 2011 г.

Levy defends Spurs bid | Sky Sports | Football | News

Daniel Levy has defended Spurs' bid for the Olympic Stadium, insisting football and athletics cannot co-exist successfully there.

Spurs and rivals West Ham made their final submissions in a bid to take over the stadium after the 2012 London Games on Friday.

Tottenham's plans would see them demolish the stadium and build a new one without a running track, while rivals West Ham's plan is to keep the structure at a reduced capacity and with the athletics track retained.

But the Spurs chairman insists retaining a running track at the stadium would be"the easy option, but the wrong option".

He said in an open letter to fans:"The easiest option for us would undoubtedly have been to bid for the Olympic Stadium site with a retained athletics track. But it would have been the wrong option.

"The front row seats in the Olympic Stadium with a retained athletics track will be up to 45 metres from the pitch; in our stadium design they would be 8m from the action.

"Football and athletics cannot co-exist successfully in the same stadium.

"There are examples all over the world of where clubs have removed tracks or moved stadiums simply because of the poor spectator experience and the lack of sustainability in the long-term due to decreasing attendances. We never considered for one moment placing our fans in such a stadium environment."

Recommendation

The Olympic Park Legacy Company are to make a recommendation next week and Spurs have even managed to secure the support of Brazil football legend Pele, who wrote a letter to the OPLC backing their plan.

Levy said that should Spurs be chosen as the preferred bidder, the club would have a full consultation process with supporters, a number of whom are campaigning against a move to east London.

The club would also provide an athletics legacy for London by redeveloping the Crystal Palace athletics stadium, which the championship club want to move into themselves.

Levy added:"It (the Olympic Stadium) would rank amongst the finest stadiums in the world and deliver one of the best fan experiences anywhere in Europe.

"Our proposals for the Olympic Stadium site include an iconic 60,000-seater stadium, the construction of which is fully financially guaranteed."

Spurs' original plan of developing a new stadium close to their current home, called the Northumberland Development Project (NDP), is likely to be more costly and troublesome.

Repeat concerns

Levy added:"I must once again repeat the concerns we have about the viability and deliverability of the NDP. The cost of consent has been high.

"No progress has been made with the remaining land owners and this is a potentially costly issue.

"Compulsory Purchase Orders are of course one route to resolving this, but that process is uncertain and can take years to conclude.

"Our guiding principles remain the same - we are committed to taking this club to the next level and an increased capacity stadium is central to that intention; and we have to seek a stadium solution which does not undermine the financial stability of the club or its ability to continue to invest in the first team."

Levy pointed out that Uefa's new financial fair play rules, where clubs in European competition can only spend what they earn, made it imperative that Spurs are able to boost match-day income by moving to a bigger ground.

"Perhaps more importantly, we now have over 35,000 fans on the paid for waiting list for season tickets. It is an astonishing figure and a real reminder of the strength of support for this club,"he said.

"The choice is between standing still or moving forward. A new stadium is critical to our continued success."


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суббота, 22 января 2011 г.

Gunners consider Woodgate raid | Sky Sports | Football | News

Skysports.comunderstands Arsenal are weighing up a shock move to sign Tottenham defender Jonathan Woodgate.

The Spurs man came through a practice game in midweek against QPR having not played since November 2009 due to a career-threatening groin problem.

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is looking to strengthen his backline in this month's transfer window due to injuries to regular stoppers Thomas Vermaelen and Sebastien Squillaci.

And it is understood the Frenchman wants to raid Arsenal's north London rivals for Woodgate to plug the gap in his side's central defence.

Former England stopper Woodgate arrived at White Hart Lane from Middlesbrough in 2008, but has seen his Spurs career hampered by injury.

Previously, Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has indicated he would allow Woodgate to leave on loan to interested clubs QPR or Leeds, provided he can achieve basic fitness.


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пятница, 21 января 2011 г.

Kean hopes for Formica deal | Sky Sports | Football | News

Steve Kean does not expect to bring a 'marquee signing' to Blackburn, but he is closing on Mauro Formica.

Rovers have been linked with a host of big names since the transfer window re-opened, with the likes of David Beckham and Ronaldinho touted as potential targets.

But while their ambition cannot be faulted, their ability to attract global superstars can be.

Kean admits it is now unlikely that a household name will be acquired before the end of the month, but he is confident fresh faces will be drafted in.

Argentine starlet Formica is among those Blackburn still hope to bring on board, with the exciting Newell's Old Boys forward touted as the new Gabriel Batistuta in his homeland.

Process

On his transfer business, Kean said:"I don't think a marquee signing will happen.

"I spoke to the owners and said I think it is better if we don't have that speculation and we process who is going to be available.

"If it is going to be a big-name signing that is probably best done when the market is stable in the summer.

"Formica would be someone we are interested in bringing to the club. That could be something that happens before the window closes.

"He is a fantastic talent, attacking player - a little bit like a young Batistuta.

Ability

"He has great technical ability, a typical Argentinian with a bit of fight and devilment in him.

"This guy can score goals and play last passes and create a goal out of nothing."

While happy to talk up his pursuit of the£4million-rated Formica, Kean has been quick to distance himself from an approach for another Argentine.

Blackburn have been offered the chance to snap up Boca Juniors playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme, but their boss insists he has no intention of following up that lead.

Kean said:"Riquelme has probably been offered to all sorts of clubs but he is not one that will be coming."


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четверг, 20 января 2011 г.

Boussoufa - Everton an option | Sky Sports | Football | News

Anderlecht playmaker Mbark Boussoufa has refused to rule out the possibility of joining Everton.

Reports suggest the Toffees have turned their attention to the Holland-born Morocco international after losing Steven Pienaar to Tottenham.

The 26-year-old would certainly help to fill that creative void, having proved his worth during four-and-half-years in Belgium.

The last 12 months have arguably been his best to date, with a second Le Soulier d'Or award picked up in 2010 after being recognised as the best player in the Belgian top flight.

Fantastic

Boussoufa insists he will not force Anderlecht's hand during the January transfer window, despite mounting speculation regarding his future, but admits a switch to England would be difficult to turn down.

"Listen, I am very happy here but you never know what will happen in football,"he said.

"Once all parties are happy, you can move on.

"Everton? They are a very good club and to play in England would be fantastic."


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среда, 19 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Giggs in line for new deal

Manchester United chief executive David Gill has confirmed the club plan to address Ryan Giggs' contract situation in the coming months.

The Welsh wizard, who is approaching his 20th senior year with the Red Devils, is out of contract at the end of the season.

The 37-year-old has proved once again age is no barrier this season with a number of fine displays and it seems manager Sir Alex Ferguson is not ready to lose his services just yet.

Gill insists Giggs' deal will be looked at and he would not be surprised to see the club legend extend his Old Trafford stay by another 12 months.

"I wouldn't be surprised if he extends his contract for another season,"explained Gill."That will be addressed in the next month or so.

"He has been playing well, keeps himself in great shape and is a wonderful advert for the modern footballer."


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вторник, 18 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Howe warns off Eagles suitors

New Burnley boss Eddie Howe has warned Everton off making a move for midfielder Chris Eagles.

Everton are reportedly keen on signing Eagles as a possible replacement for want-away winger Steven Pienaar.

The South African is expected to leave Goodison Park this month, with Tottenham and Chelsea both battling it out for his services.

Everton are now drawing up a list of replacements and former Manchester United youngster Eagles is thought to figure highly.

However, Howe is keen to keep hold of Eagles as he looks to build a side capable of winning promotion.

"We want to keep all our good players here,"said Howe.

"If we want to be strong we have to keep our best players."


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понедельник, 17 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Spearing hopes for Reds run

Jay Spearing believes Sunday's 2-2 draw with Everton could act as a springboard for both himself and Liverpool.

The 22-year-old midfielder was handed a surprise start in the absence of captain Steven Gerrard and acquitted himself well in a hard-fought Merseyside derby at Anfield.

It was only a second league start for the Wirral-born academy graduate and Spearing only made his comeback from a broken ankle for the reserves last week so represented a major vote of confidence from new manager Kenny Dalglish.

Spearing has made a big impression on the Liverpool great on the training ground and with Gerrard still suspended for Saturday's trip to Wolves, the youngster hopes to keep his place.

Family pride

"This tops everything,"he said.

"In my whole career I've been aiming to play in a derby, especially at Anfield, and to get the nod was a massive boost for myself and a great moment for the family.

"But any game for Liverpool is a massive thing for myself and now I want to get a run in the team and hopefully show I'm capable of sticking around."

Dalglish has shown he is prepared to give youth a chance having started 20-year-old Martin Kelly in all three games since taking over from Roy Hodgson while using Jonjo Shelvey, 18, from the bench.

"You can see from the off - he's put Martin Kelly in and that's the third game on the bounce now,"Spearing added."Hopefully I can follow in his footsteps and get a run going.

"He has faith in us so we must be doing something in training. It's down to us - but it's him as well. It's good he's got the belief to chuck us in."

Dalglish has been handed the reins initially until the end of the season in a bid to arrest an alarming slump in fortunes.

Aura

Despite a creditable derby performance, Liverpool remain just four points above the bottom three, but Spearing believes the Kop legend can inspire a revival.

"We've lost games and that's not like Liverpool, we're not used to that,"he said.

"We need to improve that and with Kenny coming in, that's a massive boost.

"Now it's down to the players and hopefully this can be a great start for us.

"There's just this aura about him, he's King Kenny. For myself, being a local lad, it's a massive thing to try to prove to him that I can play."


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воскресенье, 16 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Ruud reveals Real appeal

Ruud van Nistelrooy admits he is tempted by Real Madrid's reported interest in bringing the Hamburg striker back to the Bernabeu.

The Dutchman scored 46 goals in 68 games over a three-and-a-half-year stay with the Spanish giants before making the switch to Germany in January 2010.

Van Nistelrooy admits that, at 34, for his old club to show an interest again is a shock and he will"seriously"consider a return if a bid materialises.

"It is crazy what is happening,"he said toLiga Total television.

"I mean for such a club to come calling at this stage of my career - that is something which has got to be considered seriously.

"It has been a strange week. I had to focus all of my efforts on today's game and that was not easy,"said the Dutchman, following Hamburg's 1-0 win at Schalke on Saturday.

"I think we are going to clear this up in the next few days."

Admiration

Madrid boss Jose Mourinho revealed his admiration for the former Manchester United star on Saturday, but Hamburg's director of sport Bastian Reinhardt insists no official approach had been made.

"We have spoken to Ruud and we know about Real's interest in signing him this winter,"he said.

"But they have not made an offer and, therefore, we don't even need to discuss it.

"Of course Ruud is staying with us."

Hamburg coach Armin Veh hopes Reinhardt keeps his word after seeing the Dutchman grab the only goal of the game in the defeat of Schalke.

"Ruud is fitter now than he has ever been,"he toldZDF television.

"To lose him would be a bitter blow. Therefore we will do all that we can to keep him here, even though I can understand him."


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пятница, 14 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Williams rejects Carlisle move

Reading left-back Marcus Williams has rejected the chance to join League One side Carlisle United on a month's loan.

Williams only joined Reading last summer from Scunthorpe United, but has made just five appearances during his time at the Madejski Stadium.

He recently had a loan spell at Peterborough United, but has turned down the opportunity of another stint in League One with Carlisle.

The 24-year-old was wanted by the Cumbrians to help tighten things up in defence, however, Williams is hoping to force he way back in to the Reading team and feels settled in the south.

Reading had been happy for Williams to regain match sharpness at Carlisle after agreeing a loan deal but Cumbrians boss Greg Abbott will now have to pursue other options.

"The only position we need during the transfer window is a left-back,"Abbott toldskysports.com.

"I've got two or three in mind and we are taking to various clubs about them.

"Ideally we want somebody in for Saturday, but that's looking unlikely at the moment."


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четверг, 13 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Blades land Mattock

Sheffield United have completed the loan signing of West Brom defender Joe Mattock until the end of the season.

As revealed byskysports.com, the Blades were leading the hunt for the England Under-21 international and have now secured his services.

Bramall Lane boss Micky Adams was been keen to bolster his defence and believes Mattock will be an excellent addition to his squad.

The former Leicester defender has found his first-team opportunities limited at the Hawthorns this term and has been allowed to leave on a temporary basis.

Enthusiastic

With Marek Cech and Nicky Shorey ahead of him in Roberto Di Matteo's thoughts, the Premier League club have enough cover, although there is a recall clause in the loan deal.

Mattock will come into contention for Saturday's Championship clash at Coventry as the Blades look to climb away from relegation danger.

Adams told the club'sofficial website:"Joe is young and enthusiastic and certainly gives us competition for places.

"He had an injury at the start of the season which limited his opportunities for West Brom, but he's naturally left-footed and having him here will help us climb the table."


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среда, 12 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Wenger expects Henry boost

Arsene Wenger believes Thierry Henry's presence on the Arsenal training ground will be hugely beneficial.

The Gunners legend has returned to the club for the duration of the MLS close season in a bid to maintain his fitness.

While the New York Red Bulls striker is not available for selection, Wenger nevertheless feels it will be useful for the other members of the squad to have him around.

Henry is Arsenal's all-time leading scorer and Wenger hopes he can pass on what he has learned and increase confidence in the camp.

"We are happy to speak with him every day. He is in the dressing room with the players and they are happy to have him back,"said the manager.

"He sees as well how much they have evolved since he left the club.

"He can help them to have confidence. He is a very intelligent boy who has massive experience.

"He can help the players in the dressing room and that is what he does. But we are happy to help him to get fit and he is happy to be here.

"He was one of the greatest players this club has ever had and has done a huge service to this club.

"The only way we can pay him back is always to be welcoming, as we are with all our former players when they want to get fit."

Warning

Arsenal have not won a trophy since Henry left the club, with their last piece of silverware coming in the 2005 FA Cup.

They have a chance to end that drought in this season's Carling Cup and are currently preparing for the first leg of a semi-final against Ipswich on Wednesday night.

However, Wenger is taking nothing for granted following the scare against Leeds in the FA Cup, when Cesc Fabregas had to score a late penalty just to secure a replay.

"We have been warned,"Wenger said."We will certainly be on our toes going to Ipswich.

"Our last game has shown that against a Championship team we must be completely up for it and focused from the first minute on if we don't want to be surprised."

Wenger accepts that it will be a tough game, adding:"In the Premier League there are one or two players standing out where the club has spent a lot of money.

"In the Championship you face the team as a compact unit who is ready to fight against you, and I think that is what we will face against Ipswich,"he said.

"The pressure is on Arsenal and they have nothing to lose. That is part of being at Arsenal to deal with that and I accept that completely."


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вторник, 11 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Upson puts future on hold

Matthew Upson is happy to put his long-term future at West Ham United on hold as the club battle to stay in the Premier League.

The England defender's contract expires at the end of the season and no agreement has been reached regarding an extension at Upton Park.

The 31-year-old has made over 130 appearances for the Hammers since joining from Birmingham City four years ago and has been linked with a move to rival clubs.

However, Upson is in no rush to resolve the situation and believes West Ham's position at the end of the campaign will likely dictate his future.

Difficult position

"Nothing has been done and we will just see how it plays out this season,"said Upson.

"The club are in quite a difficult position in terms of assessing where to head in the summer.

"Obviously a lot depends on their Premier League status and other issues. You can't possibly say what will happen.

"We spoke but it is in a position that is on hold and we will see how it plays out."

Meanwhile, Upson wants West Ham to replicate the performance from the 4-0 thrashing of Manchester United in the previous round when the club take on former club Birmingham in the Carling Cup semi-finals on Tuesday night.

Relief

He added:"Not only was it a great result, but it gave a boost to the whole club in every department.

"With the way that things are right now, it would be a welcome relief to achieve something in the cup and making the final would be a top achievement.

"We need to look back at that Manchester United game. Our attitude was right, we did not let them settle and it is important especially at home that we set off with an aggressive attitude.

"If we do that we can upset people and get on top and a result."


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понедельник, 10 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Vaughan praises Holloway

Blackpool midfielder David Vaughan has praised manager Ian Holloway, raising hopes he could be close to committing his future to the club.

The former Crewe and Real Sociedad man has been outstanding for the Seasiders this season, but is out of contract in the summer.

It has been feared the 27-year-old will walk away on a free transfer at the end of the campaign unless he agrees fresh terms.

A deal is thought to be close and now Vaughan insists that Holloway, who has worked wonders at the club, is the best manager he has played for.

Best

"I'd have to say he is probably the best manager I have ever had because he has really helped me develop as a player,"he told theBlackpool Gazette.

"Obviously I had a lot of help at Crewe from Dario Gradi. He just knows good young players when he sees them and he teaches the game well.

"Dario teaches lads how he thinks football should be played and you can see his philosophy in every player who comes through Crewe.

"But as first-team manager Ollie is very good. His organisation in the formation we play is great. Everyone knows their jobs and it works well.

"He gets the players up for games. He's really good at that and a lot of the players appreciate that.

"He has changed everything for me personally and I am really grateful to him for that.

"Ollie came in and had the 4-3-3 formation he wanted to play. He saw me playing in the middle in that, rather than on the left wing, and that suited my game.

"It has gone from strength to strength for both myself and the club ever since really."


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воскресенье, 9 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Cesc makes Gunners pledge

Captain Cesc Fabregas insists he has no intention of leaving Arsenal until he has brought silverware to Emirates Stadium.

The Spain international midfielder, whose last-gasp penalty sealed a 1-1 draw and set up an FA Cup third-round replay with Leeds on Saturday, was heavily linked with a return to Barcelona last summer, admitting it was a dream to make a comeback at his boyhood club.

However, with Arsene Wenger's men still chasing silverware on four fronts this season, Fabregas is adamant he is shelving that ambition until they make an addition to their trophy cabinet.

"Why would I want to leave? It is fantastic here,"Fabregas, who has endured a five-year wait for silverware with the Gunners, told theNews of the World.

"It would be a dream to lift trophies for Arsenal. It has always been my wish.

"Afterwards you can always be attracted by something else, like a new objective, or new challenges because, for me, life is all about challenges.

"But my real challenge as captain of Arsenal is to bring this football club success.

"This is the biggest dream I can have. I want to end these five years without a trophy and, hopefully, I can do it this season."

Sulking

Fabregas was accused of sulking earlier in the season after the Gunners refused to let him go to Barca last summer.

But the 23-year-old skipper, who was injured during the opening stages of the campaign, insists this was not the case, admitting he was offended by those claims.

He added:"It hurt me a lot to be injured and then hear some things, that my head was not here and my heart was somewhere else.

"I often played when I wasn't 100 per cent and it is painful to hear that kind of thing when you have worked so hard for this club and when you give everything for them."


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суббота, 8 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | French Cup round-up

Seven Ligue 1 sides crashed out of the French Cup in a day of shocks on Saturday.

Amateur sides Chambery and Wasquehal pulled off the biggest shocks at the last 64-stage, beating Monaco and Auxerre, while St Etienne, Valenciennes, Lens, Montpellier and Arles also lost.

Remy Sahinovic was the hero as fifth divisionChamberyknocked outMonaco3-2 on penalties, while Gregoire Debuchy and David Coulibaly helpedWasquehalbeatAuxerre2-1.

Sahinovic netted the decisive penalty in a tense shootout after the game had ended in a 1-1 draw, with Chris Malonga cancelling out Thomas Dubard's surprise fifth minute opener.

Fifth-tier side Wasquehal came from behind to beat Auxerre, who played in the UEFA Champions League this season.

The Ligue 1 side looked to be heading for a routine win after Adama Coulibaly opened the scoring in the 12th minute but the hosts hit back with 10 minutes left through Debuchy before Coulibaly converted a penalty two minutes from time.

Giant-killing

Four second division sides - Angers, Clermont Foot, Reims and Sedans - also carried out giant-killings.

Angersclaimed the 2-1 extra-time scalp ofValenciennes, who finished the game with nine men.

The Ligue 1 side were reduced to 10 men two minutes before the interval when Gaetan Bong was sent off.

But they took the lead on 58 minutes when Karim Djellabi put the ball in his own net before Gaetan Charbonnier equalised to send the tie into extra-time.

Claudiu Keseru scored the decisive goal after 105 minutes, with the visitors' night then getting worse when Vincent Aboubaker was sent off with a minute remaining.

Clermont FootbeatSt Etiennethanks to goals in either half from Sloan Privat and Nicolas Haquin, while a late Romain Amalfitano effort sawReimsearn a narrow 1-0 victory overMontpellier.

Sedanbeat Ligue 1's bottom sideArles4-2 on penalties after Nicolas Fauvergue equalised Kamel Ghilas' opener in extra-time.

Third divisionRouenalso looked to be pulling off a shock atBordeauxwhen Michel Rodriguez gave the visitors a sixth minute lead.

But Anthony Modeste replied on the half-hour mark and Cheick Diabete hit a second-half brace to ease the hosts through.

Niceavoided an embarrassing defeat at third divisionCreteilwhen keeper Lionel Letizi helped them to a 6-5 penalty shootout victory following a 1-1 draw.

Lille through

League leadersLilleeasily beatForbach3-0 thanks to a 36th minute Pierre-Alain Frau opener and second-half goals from Aurelien Chedjou and Gervinho.

Pape Diakhate was on target asLyonovercameCaen, while Ideye Brown netted a late winner asSochauxalso claimed an away victory atJarville.

Guillaume Hoarau notched a brace as Ligue 1 high-fliersParis St Germainbeat top-flight strugglersLens5-1.

Patrick Leugueun gave Ligue 2 sideVannesan early lead atLorientbefore the hosts replied via James Fanchone, Lynel Kitambala, Sigamary Diarra and Francis Coquelin to seal an easy win.

There was also a shock in the cup on Friday asToulouseslumped to a 2-1 home reverse to third tierParis FC, meaning eight Ligue 1 teams in total are now already out of the competition.


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пятница, 7 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Behrami set for Italy return

West Ham midfielder Valon Behrami is set to seal a move back to Italy with Fiorentina ready to pounce.

Switzerland international Behrami spent most of his career in Serie A prior to his move to Upton Park in 2008.

Now the former Lazio and Genoa man is set to get his wish of moving back to Italy.

Behrami has suffered a number of injuries during his two-and-a-half years in England which have limited him to just over 50 Premier League appearances.

Now the Hammers are understood to have agreed terms with Fiorentina for his move.

Reports in Italy suggest the 25-year-old will pen a four-year deal in Florence.


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четверг, 6 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Berntsson set for Killie deal

Kilmarnock are poised to sign Swedish defender Billy Berntsson on a free transfer.

The 26-year-old is a free agent as his contract with Swedish second division side Sundsvall expired in October.

The right-back has been on trial at Killie and is close to agreeing a two-and-a-half-year deal with the Scottish Premier League outfit after impressing manager Mixu Paatelainen.

"This is what I have worked for - to get a move to Europe,"Berntsson told theDaily Record.

"This is a big step up from the Swedish Premier League and Kilmarnock are playing really well right now.

Belief

"The Kilmarnock coach seems to believe in me and that's important so I hope a deal is agreed soon."

Paatelainen is looking to replace full-back Ben Gordon, who returned to Chelsea this week following his loan spell with fourth-placed Killie.

Berntsson came through the academy of current Swedish champions Malmo before having stints with Herfolge, Falkenbergs and Sundsvall.

He now feels ready to try his luck abroad and is confident he can adjust to the Scottish game.

New adventure

"I feel like having a new adventure somewhere else and I'm at a top club in a top division,"said Berntsson.

"It's a completely different mentality in Scotland and there are some very good players here.

"The stadiums are also nice and everything is very professional all round. They tell me the way they play in Scotland is very high tempo but I haven't really found it much of a difference from Sundsvall."

Berntsson's agent, John Budak added:"Kilmarnock want him to sign as quickly as possible. Right now we are in deep negotiations with the club."


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вторник, 4 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Simpson gets Hatters axe

League Two strugglers Stockport County have sacked manager Paul Simpson after a poor run of results.

The Hatters have wielded the axe on Simpson, who was only appointed in July, after a run of just three wins in 19 games.

He leaves with the Edgeley Park outfit in 21st place in the league, only four points off the drop zone.

Assistant manager Peter Ward has been installed in a caretaker capacity and the board are promising new signings during the transfer window.

A statement on the club'sofficial websitesaid:"After much deliberation, and in view of the recent run of just three wins in the last 19 games, it has been decided that a change is necessary if the club is to achieve its aims for this season and beyond.

"The board would like to place on record their thanks to Paul for his considerable efforts whilst at Edgeley Park and wish him well for the future.

Important time

"This is a very important time for Stockport County Football Club, with our football league status the main priority, the board felt that given the club's current league position, the best way forward was to agree to make a change now.

"The board of directors are pleased to announce that Peter Ward will be placed in charge of first team affairs as 'caretaker' manager, these changes will commence with immediate effect.

"After initial talks between the board of directors and Peter Ward, Stockport County's supporters can look forward to seeing four or five new players arrive at Edgeley Park in January."

Simpson is the third manager to be sacked on Tuesday, following Walsall's Chris Hutchings and Charlton's Phil Parkinson out of the door.


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понедельник, 3 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Primera Liga round-up

Cristiano Ronaldo notched a double as 10-man Real Madrid kept the heat on leaders Barcelona with a 3-2 victory at local rivals Getafe on Monday night.

Reigning champions Barca stretched their lead at the top of the Primera Liga with a 2-1 triumph over Levante on Sunday, but Real trimmed that advantage back to two points in the Madrid derby, despite Alvaro Arbeloa seeing red in the 82nd minute.

Jose Mourinho's men drew first blood after Jose Manuel Mane fouled Real midfielder Angel di Maria in the area, prompting the referee to point to the spot.

Ronaldo converted the 12th-minute penalty with ease, leaving Getafe goalkeeper Jordi Codina with no reply as his powerful shot put the visitors 1-0 ahead.

Real then doubled the scoreline soon after as Germany ace Mesut Ozil capitalised on some superb work from Di Maria to knock in a beautifully-crafted strike from close range.

Getafe pulled one back before the break through former Real midfielder Dani Parejo, who produced a stunning solo effort, evading several defenders before finally unleashing a superb finish in front of goal which keeper Iker Casillas had no chance of stopping.

But Ronaldo wrapped up Real's victory in a tight second half with his 19th league goal of the season to secure the crucial three-point haul, despite Arbeloa's dismissal and a late Juan Angel Albin goal putting the result briefly in doubt.

Villarrealkept up their chase on nearest rivals Real with a 2-0 triumph at home toAlmeria.

The currently third-placed side went ahead in the 22nd minute courtesy of a Jose Catala strike before Borja Valero doubled the scoreline after the break, leaving their visitors still struggling in the relegation zone.

Real Mallorcaclimbed into ninth place with a commanding 3-0 triumph at home toHercules.

Emilio Nsue and Victor were on target for the hosts in the first half, knocking in two goals within three minutes.

Michael Pereira then capped the victory soon after the restart, condemning Hercules to 13th in the standings.

A tight encounter at La Romareda sawReal Zaragozamove off the bottom of the table with a 2-1 triumph overReal Sociedad.

Both sides had a goal apiece at the break after Sociedad midfielder Xavier Prieto cancelled out Florent Sinama Pongolle's early strike.

But substitute Braulio managed to clinch a last-gasp winner for the home side in stoppage time to hand Zaragoza, now 18th in the table, a much-needed three points.

Atletico Madridmissed the chance to climb into the top five after being held to a disappointing goalless draw at home byRacing Santander.

With Espanyol losing to Valencia on Sunday night, the Rojiblancos would have moved above the Barcelona-based outfit with a victory over a Racing side that picked up just four points from a possible 24 away from home prior to Monday's game.

However Atletico, who were missing Diego Forlan (injured), Jose Antonio Reyes (suspended) and Simao Sabrosa (transferred), were unable to break down the Racing defence.


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суббота, 1 января 2011 г.

Sky Sports | Football | News | Allen interested in Vale job

Martin Allen has put his name forward for the vacant Port Vale managerial post.

The former Leicester City manager has admitted his interest in the job that Micky Adams left to become Sheffield United boss earlier this week.

The 45-year-old, who has also had stints at Brentford and MK Dons, is hungry to get back into football after leaving League Two rivals Cheltenham in October 2009.

Vale, who are second in League Two, suffered a 5-0 hammering to Rotherham on Saturday and they appear to be severely missing a manager's influence.

And Allen believes he has the right credentials to keep their promotion dream alive.

Track record

"I want to work in football and be part of a progressive club,"Allen toldThe Sentinel.

"I'm young in managerial terms and feel like I've got a lot to offer the game.

"I'm always at matches and have a very good knowledge of players right throughout the leagues."

Allen added:"I'm proud of my track record. I left Barnet in a healthy position and then I did well at Brentford.

"At MK Dons we achieved a record points total for a League Two side that didn't get promoted. I left Leicester high up in the Championship, and Cheltenham was always going to be a long-term job - not a short-term one.

"I've also made a lot of money for clubs and developed players."


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