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Archive soccer news from around the world

AEK Athens strike for pay (Jul 31, 2003)

AEK Athens players refused to train in order to force officials of the Greek club to pay their wages. . . . more . . .

Blues will give Figueroa time (Jul 31, 2003)

Birmingham City insisted that their new Argentinian striker Luciano Figueroa will be given plenty of time to adjust to the cut-and-thrust of the English Premiership. . . . more . . .

Rooney sights early return (Jul 31, 2003)

Everton's teenage striker Wayne Rooney could still be fit for the start of the new season despite picking up an ankle injury, his manager David Moyes believes. . . . more . . .

Keegan hopes for better fare from Fowler (Jul 31, 2003)

Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan hopes Robbie Fowler can get back to his best for the new season. . . . more . . .

Ferguson vows Veron will stay at Manchester (Jul 31, 2003)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has denied Argentina international midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron will be playing his last game for the club in a friendly against Juventus in New Jersey. . . . more . . .

Eindhoven boss waves aside Chelsea move for van Bommel (Jul 31, 2003)

PSV Eindhoven manager Guus Hiddink said he had not received a bid from Chelsea for midfielder Mark van Bommel. . . . more . . .

Ronaldinho sparks Barcelona past AC Milan (Jul 31, 2003)

Brazilian international striker Ronaldinho scored one goal and made a crucial pass to set up another, leading FC Barcelona past AC Milan 2-0 here in an international football friendly. . . . more . . .

Celtic in aircraft scare (Jul 31, 2003)

Scottish side Celtic were forced to spend an extra night in Lithuania after their aircraft aborted take-off as they attempted to return to Glasgow. . . . more . . .

French to organise memorial match for Foe on Armistice Day (Jul 30, 2003)

The French league are to organise a match in memory of late Cameroon international midfielder Marc-Vivien Foe on Armistice Day on November 11. . . . more . . .

Argentina's Veron on verge of Chelsea move (Jul 30, 2003)

Manchester United's Argentina international midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron is set to join Chelsea after his agent met officials of the London club. . . . more . . .

The Bhoys are back while Vardar strike back in Moscow (Jul 30, 2003)

Celtic look set fair for the third qualifying round of the Champions League after thrashing Lithuanian champions FBK Kaunas 4-0 in their second qualifying round first leg match. . . . more . . .

Ref attack costs Kehl six-week ban (Jul 30, 2003)

Borussia Dortmund's international midfielder Sebastian Kehl was suspended for six weeks after attacking the referee during Monday's German League Cup final. . . . more . . .

Next stop Honduras for Bohemian Bora (Jul 30, 2003)

Much-travelled Serbian coach Bora Milutinovic looks set to take on the post of the Honduras national team, it was revealed by the Honduras Football Federation (Fenafuth). . . . more . . .

Villa agree Sorensen fee (Jul 30, 2003)

English Premiership side Aston Villa agreed a fee of 2.25million pounds (3.6million dollars) for First Division Sunderland's Danish international goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen. . . . more . . .

Yakin set to complete PSG move (Jul 30, 2003)

Swiss international midfielder Hakan Yakin is due to complete his move from Basel to Paris Saint Germain on Thursday after undergoing a medical, the French club announced. . . . more . . .

Vassell to play for new contract (Jul 30, 2003)

England striker Darius Vassell is determined to play his way into the Aston Villa side and win a new contract. . . . more . . .

Wenger confident Vieira will sign new contract (Jul 30, 2003)

Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira will end speculation over his future and sign a new contract the FA Cup winners manager Arsene Wenger claimed. . . . more . . .

Lehmann makes quite debut for Arsenal (Jul 30, 2003)

German international goalkeeper Jens Lehmann kept a clean sheet on his debut for Arsenal in a pre-season friendly against Turkish champions Besiktas. . . . more . . .

Brazil stay top of FIFA rankings (Jul 30, 2003)

World champions Brazil recovered from their Confederations Cup debacle by reaching the Gold Cup final they lost to Mexico to stay top of the FIFA rankings. . . . more . . .

Makaay still Deportivo player despite Bayern bid (Jul 30, 2003)

Dutch international striker Roy Makaay was due to take part in Deportivo La Coruna's pre-season festivities as his proposed move to German champions Bayern Munich hit deadlock, said the Spanish side's spokesman Rafael Carpacho. . . . more . . .

Larsson equals scoring record as Celtic ease past Kaunas (Jul 30, 2003)

Henrik Larsson scored a British record-equalling 30th European goal for Celtic as the Scottish giants enjoyed a comfortable 4-0 win over Lithuanian champions FBK Kaunas in their opening Champions League match. . . . more . . .

Lehmann makes quiet debut for Arsenal (Jul 30, 2003)

German international goalkeeper Jens Lehmann kept a clean sheet on his debut for Arsenal in a pre-season friendly against Turkish champions Besiktas. . . . more . . .

Beckham heaps praise on Real teammates (Jul 30, 2003)

Superstar David Beckham said he was ecstatic to be the newest member of Real Madrid's star-studded squad, and gushed over his teammates footballing skills. . . . more . . .

Wolves target Sunderland defender (Jul 30, 2003)

Newly-promoted Wolves have set their sights on Sunderland defender Jody Craddock as they build a side capable of staying in the English Premiership next season. . . . more . . .

Porto captain counts the cost of knee injury (Jul 29, 2003)

The captain of UEFA Cup and Portuguese champions FC Porto, Jorge Costa, will be out for up to two weeks because of a left knee injury, local media reported. . . . more . . .

Zidane says Beckham arrival spurs players on (Jul 29, 2003)

Real Madrid star Zinedine Zidane said the arrival of David Beckham had spurred the players to fight harder for their places. . . . more . . .

Blackburn replace Duff with Irish team-mate Reid (Jul 29, 2003)

Blackburn Rovers replaced Damien Duff when they sealed the signing of his Republic of Ireland team-mate Steven Reid for 2.5 million pounds (4 million dollars). . . . more . . .

Harry's game on Berkovic if he can afford him (Jul 29, 2003)

Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp admitted he would love to sign Manchester City's unsettled Israeli international midfielder Eyal Berkovic but warned he might not have the funds for it. . . . more . . .

Vieira vote sums up foreign takeover in England (Jul 29, 2003)

French midfielder Patrick Vieira, voted the greatest foreign player ever in English football, sums up the way the game is going in the country that invented the rules of soccer. . . . more . . .

Spurs line up Chelsea star Petit (Jul 29, 2003)

Tottenham are trying to sign Chelsea's French midfielder Emmanuel Petit for around 700,000 pounds (1.1 million dollars). . . . more . . .

French star Zidane sticking by plans to quit in 2005 (Jul 29, 2003)

Real Madrid playmaker Zinedine Zidane reiterated his plans to retire in two years when his contract with the Spanish club expires. . . . more . . .

Beckham says he fits like a glove at Real Madrid (Jul 29, 2003)

David Beckham says he has settled in well with new club Real Madrid and is ready to lead the Spanish giants to Champions League glory. . . . more . . .

China catches Real fever in team's first exhibition match (Jul 29, 2003)

It was only a training match for Real Madrid but fans came by the tens of thousands -- dressed in team shirts, with posters of their stars and Spanish flags in hand. . . . more . . .

Relieved Giggs looks forward to United future (Jul 29, 2003)

Welsh winger Ryan Giggs feared he would be sold by Manchester United after sections of the Old Trafford crowd turned against him. . . . more . . .

Gloom lifts for Hamburg as they win League Cup (Jul 28, 2003)

SV Hamburg lifted the first piece of silverware in the German season and their first for 16 years when they beat Borussia Dortmund 4-2 in an entertaining League Cup final. . . . more . . .

Berkovic linked with Redknapp reunion (Jul 28, 2003)

Israeli international midfielder Eyal Berkovic has been linked to joining up again with the manager of Premiership mewboys Portsmouth, Harry Redknapp, after asking for a transfer from Manchester City. . . . more . . .

Ronaldinho debuts for Barca in friendly (Jul 28, 2003)

Ronaldinho made his first appearance for Barcelona, coming on in the second half of a friendly against Italian giants Juventus that Barcelona won in a penalty shoot-out. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid face PR disaster in China (Jul 28, 2003)

Real Madrid may be trying to win fans in China as they look to latch onto commercial opportunities, but so far their maiden visit has come dangerously close to a public relations disaster. . . . more . . .

Beckham not a rival, Figo says (Jul 28, 2003)

Real Madrid's Luis Figo insists there is no rivalry between himself and David Beckham, and says he will play wherever the coach wants him to. . . . more . . .

Veron set for Chelsea after United U-turn (Jul 28, 2003)

Manchester United's Argentina international midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron has changed his mind and is set to join Chelsea. . . . more . . .

Soccer Australia silent on Kewell no-play threat (Jul 28, 2003)

Soccer Australia is keeping its distance over press reports that have raised doubts over Harry Kewell's availability for next month's football international against Ireland in Dublin. . . . more . . .

Wenger puts youth policy first (Jul 28, 2003)

Premiership runners-up Arsenal will rely on their promising youngsters like Jermaine Pennant in their bid to reclaim the title from Manchester United revealed manager Arsene Wenger. . . . more . . .

All business no pleasure for Real Madrid stars orders Queiroz (Jul 28, 2003)

Newly appointed Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz has banned the squad's superstar players from going sightseeing during the team's current swing through Asia, local media reported. . . . more . . .

Viduka poised to quit Leeds (Jul 28, 2003)

Australian international striker Mark Viduka wants to quit Leeds United before the start of the new season. . . . more . . .

Error leads to seating for the blind at new stadium in Portugal (Jul 28, 2003)

Some 600 seats at a giant new stadium being built in the Portuguese capital will be reserved for the blind because an oversight by builders means they will fall behind two giant television screens, it was reported. . . . more . . .

Robinson commits future to Leeds (Jul 28, 2003)

England goalkeeper Paul Robinson has dismissed further transfer speculation, insisting he will be staying with Leeds United. . . . more . . .

Arsenal's Wiltord chased by Lyon (Jul 28, 2003)

Sylvain Wiltord was reported to be considering a five million pound (8 million dollar) move to French champions Olympique Lyonnais if contract talks with Arsenal break down. . . . more . . .

Conceicao and Inter Milan agree to part ways (Jul 28, 2003)

Portuguese international winger Sergio Conceicao said he and Italian giants Inter Milan have agreed to part ways, two years before his contract with the Italian club expires. . . . more . . .

Manchester United puts on stylish show on second leg of US tour (Jul 28, 2003)

Reigning English Premiership champions Manchester United put on an entertaining show in a 3-1 win over Club of America of Mexico before a crowd of 57,365 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. . . . more . . .

Portugal aims for big tourism boost from Euro 2004 (Jul 27, 2003)

Portuguese tourism officials hope the thousands of sports fans who are expected to flock to the country next year to attend the 2004 European football championship finals will bring their families and friends in tow and give the nation's tourism industry a huge boost. . . . more . . .

Angry Robson describes Jenas' penalty shocker as outrageous, unprofessional (Jul 27, 2003)

A furious Sir Bobby Robson hit out at Jermaine Jenas after the rising young English star cost Newcastle United the Premier League Asia Cup with an outrageous penalty miss. . . . more . . .

Chelsea win Asia Cup after penalty shoot-out with Newcastle (Jul 27, 2003)

Newly-rich Chelsea gave their fans a tantalising glimpse of the silverware that awaits them under billionaire Russian owner Roman Abramovich, winning the inaugural Premier League Asia Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout against Newcastle United. . . . more . . .

Real to earn $9.1m from Asia tour, Beijing pays $2.3m (Jul 27, 2003)

Marketing officials from Spain's champion side Real Madrid said that the team will pull in eight million euros (9.1 million dollars) from their jaunt through Asia. . . . more . . .

Veron turned down chance to leave United: Ferguson (Jul 27, 2003)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has revealed their Argentina international midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron turned down the chance to leave Old Trafford this summer. . . . more . . .

Osorno's golden goal gives Mexico Gold Cup crown (Jul 27, 2003)

Daniel Osorno struck gold in the seventh minute of extra time, his golden goal giving Mexico the Gold Cup crown with a 1-0 victory over Brazil. . . . more . . .

Rooney out for a month with ligament damage (Jul 27, 2003)

Wayne Rooney will miss the start of the English Premiership season and at least one England international after being ruled out for a month with an ankle ligament injury. . . . more . . .

Robson still in love with the game at 70 (Jul 27, 2003)

Sir Bobby Robson may be the oldest manager in England's Premiership competition and just weeks away from another arduous season at the helm of Newcastle United, but the charismatic 70-year-old declared here on the weekend he was still a long way from retiring. . . . more . . .

Houllier happy as Liverpool trounce Hong Kong 6-0 (Jul 27, 2003)

Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier was purring with pleasure after watching his wide wrap up their two-match Asian tour with a 6-0 thrashing of Hong Kong. . . . more . . .

Fashanu denies taking tabloid's match-fixing cash (Jul 27, 2003)

John Fashanu, the former Wimbledon and Aston Villa star turned TV personality, denied press allegations that he fixed football matches. . . . more . . .

Uruguay's Forlan eager to remain at United (Jul 26, 2003)

Uruguay's Diego Forlan is eager to remain at English Premiership champions Manchester United and said if they were keen to let him go someone at the club would have told him. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid no-show disappoint hundreds in China (Jul 26, 2003)

Real Madrid and their newest star signing David Beckham disappointed hundreds of expectant fans when the Spanish league champions failed to show for their first official practice session here. . . . more . . .

QPR deal could give Socceroos London base (Jul 26, 2003)

Plans by an entrepreneur to buy 30 percent of English second division club QPR could give Australia and/or New Zealand a London base for international friendlies. . . . more . . .

No go Raul (Jul 26, 2003)

A Chelsea bid to sign the darling of Real Madrid Raul has come to nothing after his agent said Saturday the player did not want to join the English Premiership club. . . . more . . .

Rooney in injury scare (Jul 26, 2003)

Wayne Rooney could miss the start of the new season for both Everton and England after being stretchered off during a friendly with Rangers. . . . more . . .

Cash-strapped Barca raise prices for new season tickets (Jul 26, 2003)

Barcelona are raising season ticket prices by between 20 and 40 percent for fans wanting to see Ronaldinho and company at the Nou Camp in the new season, the club said. . . . more . . .

Birmingham thrash Malaysia in Asia Cup, while crowds stay away (Jul 26, 2003)

Birmingham City thrashed the Malaysian national team 4-0 in front of a disappointing crowd of 12,000 people to take third spot in the Premier League Asia Cup here. . . . more . . .

Lehmann set to fill Seaman's boots at Arsenal (Jul 25, 2003)

Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Jens Lehmann is poised to join English Premiership side Arsenal as David Seaman's successor. . . . more . . .

Chelski banks easy 4-1 win over Malaysia in Asia Cup (Jul 25, 2003)

Chelsea's big guns led the Blues to their first victory under new owner Roman Abramovich, with the 4-1 victory over the Malaysian national team offering the Russian billionaire a taste of the success his money could bring this season. . . . more . . .

Arsenal go from Seaman to Lehmann (Jul 25, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed the club have signed Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Jens Lehmann to replace David Seaman. . . . more . . .

Galatasaray split with Xavier and Revivo (Jul 25, 2003)

Turkish giants Galatasaray said they had terminated the contracts of Portuguese defender Abel Xavier and Israeli striker Haim Revivo by mutual consent. . . . more . . .

Cash-strapped Barca raise prices for new season tickets (Jul 25, 2003)

Barcelona are raising season ticket prices by between 20 and 40 percent for fans wanting to see Ronaldinho and company at the Nou Camp in the new season, the club said. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid's superstars jet into China amid heavy security (Jul 25, 2003)

Real Madrid arrived in China to a raucous welcome amid heavy security -- with all the attention on David Beckham. . . . more . . .

Lazio draw Benfica on Champions League trail (Jul 25, 2003)

Italian side Lazio were drawn against Portugal's Benfica in the outstanding clash of next month's European Champions League draw for clubs seeking entry into the lucrative group stage. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid on the pitch in China (Jul 25, 2003)

David Beckham, Raul, Ronaldo and the rest of the Real Madrid squad hit the field for a short training session only hours after landing in China to kick off their Asian tour. . . . more . . .

Cries for Beckham as Real Madrid's superstars hit China (Jul 25, 2003)

Real Madrid arrived in China to a boisterous welcome amid heavy security -- with all the attention on David Beckham as the Spanish champions kicked off an Asian tour mired in controversy. . . . more . . .

Liverpool shrug off SARS fears after touching down in Hong Kong (Jul 25, 2003)

English giants Liverpool brushed off concerns over the deadly SARS virus after touching down in Hong Kong for a pre-season friendly. . . . more . . .

Newcastle hold off brave Birmingham in Asian heat (Jul 24, 2003)

Newcastle United held off a brave Birminham City in the Kuala Lumpur heat here to record a hard-fought 2-1 win and book a place in the final of the pre-season Premier League Asia Cup. . . . more . . .

Wenger looks for swift Lehmann move. (Jul 24, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admitted in the German press that Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Jens Lehmann is the man he wants to fill the gloves of David Seaman. . . . more . . .

Wenger looks for swift Lehmann move (Jul 24, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admitted in the German press that Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Jens Lehmann is the man he wants to fill the gloves of David Seaman. . . . more . . .

Celtic dream of Champions League goal glut (Jul 24, 2003)

Scottish giants Celtic will face FBK Kaunas in the second qualifying round of the Champions League after the Lithuanian champions came through their first round encounter against Torshavn of the Faroe Islands. . . . more . . .

Becks has translation taped (Jul 24, 2003)

David Beckham will be able to ask his new Real Madrid teammates who ate all the paella and a whole lot more after kitting himself out with the latest in mobile phone technology which translates English to Spanish. . . . more . . .

Togo defender Afanou loaned to Emirates' Al Ain (Jul 24, 2003)

Togo defender Kodjo Afanou has joined United Arab Emirates club Al Ain on a one-year loan period, his French club Bordeaux said. . . . more . . .

Viduka escapes ban after mixing it with Jordan jnr (Jul 24, 2003)

Leeds boss Peter Reid has paid a rare tribute to a referee after star striker Mark Viduka narrowly escaped a potential ban as a result of a clash in a pre-season friendly with third division York City. . . . more . . .

Leaner and meaner, Ronaldo ready to do battle with Ronaldinho (Jul 24, 2003)

Real Madrid's Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldo looked leaner and fitter than ever as he prepared to fly off with a star-studded Real Madrid squad on the Spanish giants' 18-day tour of Asia. . . . more . . .

Hierro off to Qatar (Jul 24, 2003)

Former Real Madrid skipper Fernando Hierro is set to join a growing drift of veterans to the Gulf state of Qatar, amid media reports he would sign a two-year deal with an unnamed club by the weekend. . . . more . . .

Liverpool beat Thailand in rain-soaked friendly (Jul 24, 2003)

British glamour side Liverpool beat Thailand 3-1 in a rain-soaked friendly, turning in the same scoreline as when they took on the national side on their last Asian tour two years ago. . . . more . . .

Yanagisawa's five-star show delights Sampdoria coach (Jul 24, 2003)

Sampdoria coach Walter Novellino was full of praise for new signing Atsushi Yanagisawa after the Japanese international scored five times in a 16-0 thrashing of Italian amateur side Monti Pallidi. . . . more . . .

Malouda joins Lyon line-up (Jul 24, 2003)

French champions Olympique Lyonnais have bagged Guingamp forward Florent Malouda on a five year contract. . . . more . . .

Ranieri plays down Chelsea interest in Veron and Vieri (Jul 24, 2003)

Chelsea coach Claudio Ranieri was tight-lipped on reports that the club was chasing Manchester United midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron and Inter Milan striker Christian Vieri. . . . more . . .

Bayern play down Makaay signing (Jul 24, 2003)

Bayern Munich said they had yet to agree a fee for Deportivo La Coruna's Dutch striker Roy Makaay after the Spanish club was reported to have closed the deal on 21 million euros. . . . more . . .

Matthaus settles for 7,500 euros (Jul 24, 2003)

Former German international Lothar Matthaus finally reached a court settlement with former club Bayern Munich that sees the 1990 World Cup winner receive an additional 7,500 euros on top of his testimonial sum, believed to be around two million euros. . . . more . . .

Give us Nesta if you want Stam, Lazio tell Milan (Jul 24, 2003)

Lazio have told Serie A rivals AC Milan they will have to let them have Alessandro Nesta back in exchange for sought-after Dutch defender Jaap Stam. . . . more . . .

Villa snap up McCann for 2.25 million pounds (Jul 23, 2003)

Aston Villa have agreed a 2.25-million-pound (6.2-million-dollar) fee for Sunderland midfielder Gavin McCann in what is expected to the first in a series of high-profile exits from the Stadium of Light. . . . more . . .

Del Piero's mother defends her son as doping trial continues (Jul 23, 2003)

The mother of striker Alessandro Del Piero leapt to the defence of her son who was summoned by the judge in the Juventus doping trial in Turin. . . . more . . .

'Chelski' chairman denies club is trying to buy success (Jul 23, 2003)

Chelsea chairman Ken Bates denied the newly rich club was trying to buy success, but his rival at Birmingham City criticised the Stamford Bridge team for abandoning "common sense". . . . more . . .

Winterburn retires at 39 (Jul 23, 2003)

Former England international defender Nigel Winterburn revealed that the death of his father has prompted him to hang up his boots. . . . more . . .

Manchester United launch US tour with 4-0 rout of Celtic (Jul 23, 2003)

English Premiership giants Manchester United kicked off their four-game US tour with a 4-0 triumph over Scottish rivals Celtic before a sell-out crowd of 66,722 at Seahawks Stadium. . . . more . . .

Roma play down finance fears (Jul 23, 2003)

AS Roma president Franco Sensi said the club would be able to meet the Italian football league's (Lega Calcio) solvency requirements in time to play in the forthcoming Serie A season. . . . more . . .

'Chelski' chairman denies club is trying to buy success, but rival complains (Jul 23, 2003)

Chelsea chairman Ken Bates denied here the newly rich club was trying to buy success, but his rival at Birmingham City criticised the Stamford Bridge team for abandoning "common sense". . . . more . . .

Real to mark 50 years since Di Stefano debut with River Plate date (Jul 23, 2003)

Real Madrid are to mark half a century since their favourite son Alfredo Di Stefano made his debut with a gala match against Argentina's River Plate on September 23. . . . more . . .

Liverpool fans turn out in force in Thailand (Jul 23, 2003)

Some 2,000 Thais turned out in force for a chance to take part in a football clinic given by players from English Premier League giants Liverpool during their whirlwind Asian tour. . . . more . . .

Bayern stay on trail of Makaay (Jul 23, 2003)

Bayern Munich have pulled out of a bid to sign Boca Juniors striker Carlos Tevez but are still chasing Deportivo La Coruna's Dutch striker Roy Makaay. . . . more . . .

Beckham arrives in Madrid as Victoria takes a back seat (Jul 23, 2003)

Madrid gave vent to a fresh bout of Beckham-mania after England star David Beckham arrived in the Spanish capital ready to start pre-season training with Real Madrid. . . . more . . .

Milito set to join Zaragoza after Real rejection sparks row (Jul 23, 2003)

Argentine defender Gabriel Milito is primed to join Real Zaragoza after seeing his dream of a move to Real Madrid scuppered amid doubts over his right ankle. . . . more . . .

Collina to referee Italian Supercup (Jul 23, 2003)

Pierluigi Collina, who refereed last year's World Cup final in Japan, will take charge of the Italian Supercup match in New York next month between Serie A champions Juventus and AC Milan. . . . more . . .

Arsenal's Wiltord chased by PSG (Jul 22, 2003)

Sylvain Wiltord was reported to be ready to move to Paris St Germain if Arsenal continue to play him as a back-up to fellow Frenchman Thierry Henry. . . . more . . .

Sammer sweats on Jensen (Jul 22, 2003)

Borussia Dortmund's injury problems show no sign of letting up with new signing Niclas Jensen the latest player to sustain an injury in pre-season. . . . more . . .

Juventus chase Pires (Jul 22, 2003)

Italian champions Juventus were reported to have stepped up attempts to sign Arsenal's French playmaker Robert Pires. . . . more . . .

Houllier confident Owen will commit (Jul 22, 2003)

Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier said he was confident Michael Owen would commit himself to a new contract tying him to the club long-term. . . . more . . .

Liverpool kick-off Asia tour (Jul 22, 2003)

English Premier League giants Liverpool arrived for the start of a whistlestop Asian tour, which will see them play friendlies against Thailand and Hong Kong. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid proving too expensive as Malaysian match cancelled (Jul 22, 2003)

Real Madrid's Asian tour will not take in Malaysia as planned, with media reports saying the Spanish giant's demand for a 2.9-million-dollar appearance fee was proving too expensive. . . . more . . .

Lazio sign Albertini (Jul 22, 2003)

Lazio completed the signing of AC Milan's former Italy international Demetrio Albertini on a two-year contract. . . . more . . .

Stuttgart trial duo (Jul 22, 2003)

Stuttgart have handed trials to former Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Serge Branco and Boavista defender Fernando Avalos as they bid to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Bundesliga season. . . . more . . .

Ratinho set for China trial (Jul 22, 2003)

Kaiserslautern midfielder Ratinho is to undergo a trial with Chinese first divsion side Shenyang Jinde. . . . more . . .

Foxes pick off Priet (Jul 22, 2003)

English Premiership newboys Leicester City signed their ninth new player, recruiting defender Nicolas Priet from French Champions Lyon. . . . more . . .

Quake kills at least 12 in Yunnan days ahead of Real Madrid visit (Jul 22, 2003)

Just days before David Beckham and the footballing superstars of Real Madrid arrive in China's Yunnan province, a deadly earthquake has rattled the area, killing at least 12 people and destroying hundreds of buildings. . . . more . . .

Quake kills at least 15 in Yunnan days ahead of Real Madrid visit (Jul 22, 2003)

A deadly earthquake has rocked China's Yunnan province, killing at least 15 people and destroying over 5,000 buildings, just days before David Beckham and the footballing superstars of Real Madrid arrive. . . . more . . .

It was tough to leave Blackburn: Duff (Jul 22, 2003)

Chelsea's record signing Damien Duff admitted leaving Blackburn Rovers was the hardest decision of his life. . . . more . . .

Bologna sign Como duo (Jul 22, 2003)

Italian first division club Bologna confirmed the double signing of veteran midfielder Fabio Pecchia and Brazilian defender Juarez from relegated Como. . . . more . . .

Foe death had 'tremendous impact' on Benarbia: Keegan (Jul 22, 2003)

Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan thinks the shock death of Marc-Vivien Foe prompted captain Ali Benarbia to retire. . . . more . . .

Fadiga "unfit" for Inter, says heart specialist (Jul 22, 2003)

Inter Milan's consultant heart specialist believes new signing Khalilou Fadiga is "unfit" to play and will not pass the club's medical. . . . more . . .

Lens defender Camara loaned out to Leeds (Jul 22, 2003)

Lens have agreed a one-year loan deal with Leeds United for their defender Zoumana Camara, the French club revealed. . . . more . . .

PSV singing in the rain after two million dollar Peace Cup win (Jul 22, 2003)

Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven overcame atrocious monsoon conditions and French champions Lyon to win the final of the eight-nation Peace Cup football tournament 1-0. . . . more . . .

Lazio sign Albertini as Pancaro heads north (Jul 22, 2003)

Lazio completed the signing of AC Milan's former Italy international Demetrio Albertini on a two-year contract. . . . more . . .

Lehmann could fill Seaman's boots (Jul 22, 2003)

Arsenal could turn to controversial German goalkeeper Jens Lehmann in their search for David Seaman's successor. . . . more . . .

Milan's Rui Costa aiming for first title (Jul 22, 2003)

AC Milan's Portuguese midfielder Manuel Rui Costa is determined to follow last season's Champions League success by winning his first Italian league title. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid proving too expensive for Asia as Malaysian match cancelled (Jul 22, 2003)

Lens defender Camara joins Leeds (Jul 22, 2003)

Lens have agreed a one-year loan spell with Leeds United for their defender Zoumana Camara. . . . more . . .

PSV singing in the rain but Lyon fret over injured Govou (Jul 22, 2003)

Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven overcame atrocious monsoon conditions and French champions Lyon to win the Peace Cup tournament 1-0 here. . . . more . . .

Ranieri delighted with Chelsea's latest signings (Jul 22, 2003)

Chelsea coach Claudio Ranieri expressed delight over the signings of Irish winger Damien Duff and Southhampton defender Wayne Bridge, saying the high-profile recruits will help lift the team into the English Premier League's elite. . . . more . . .

Souness gets Duff cash to buy players (Jul 22, 2003)

Blackburn Rovers manager Graeme Souness will be allowed to use the cash generated by the sale of Damien Duff to Chelsea to strengthen his side. . . . more . . .

United skipper Keane out to prove his critics wrong (Jul 21, 2003)

Manchester United captain Roy Keane, who underwent hip and knee surgery last season, insisted that he still had three years of top-flight football left in his battle-hardened legs. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid scrap move for Milito (Jul 21, 2003)

Spanish giants Real Madrid said they were pulling out of a move for Argentine defender Gabriel Milito after medical tests threw out doubts about his right ankle. . . . more . . .

United rule out swoop for Duff (Jul 21, 2003)

Manchester United have ruled out making a bid for Republic of Ireland winger Damien Duff after the English Premiership champions lost out in the race to sign Ronaldinho. . . . more . . .

Shearer fully recovered from ankle injury, looking for silverware (Jul 21, 2003)

Newcastle captain Alan Shearer has fully recovered from the ankle injury that sidelined him at the end of last season, manager Sir Bobby Robson said after the Magpies arrived here. . . . more . . .

Sinclair seals Man City move (Jul 21, 2003)

England winger Trevor Sinclair has completed his transfer from West Ham to Manchester City. . . . more . . .

Wayne to arrive at the Bridge (Jul 21, 2003)

England defender Wayne Bridge will complete his move from Southampton to Chelsea. . . . more . . .

Duff joins Chelsea revolution (Jul 21, 2003)

Republic of Ireland winger Damien Duff signed a five-year deal with English Premiership big spenders Chelsea after agreeing to a 17 million pound (27.2 million dollar) move from Blackburn. . . . more . . .

Robson says Dyer will not fly to Manchester United (Jul 21, 2003)

Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer has not had any talks with Manchester United and will remain a Magpie, team manager Sir Bobby Robson said here. . . . more . . .

Wayne finalises move to the Bridge (Jul 21, 2003)

Wayne Bridge has completed his seven-million-pound move to Chelsea with Graeme Le Saux heading to Southampton as part of the deal. . . . more . . .

Liverpool target Boumsong sure of staying at Auxerre (Jul 21, 2003)

French international defender Jean-Alain Boumsong said he was almost certain to be staying at Auxerre for another season despite Liverpool's stated intention to sign him. . . . more . . .

Ferguson looks outside United for assistant (Jul 21, 2003)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has confirmed he will look outside Old Trafford for his new assistant. . . . more . . .

Bergkamp signs new Arsenal deal (Jul 20, 2003)

Dennis Bergkamp ended speculation about his future by putting pen-to-paper on a fresh one-year deal with FA Cup winners Arsenal. . . . more . . .

Barcelona 'has everything I want' says Ronaldinho (Jul 20, 2003)

Ronaldinho said here he had chosen to join Barcelona over Manchester United because the Spanish club "had everything a player could want." . . . more . . .

Barca-bound Ronaldinho gets medical all-clear (Jul 20, 2003)

The last remaining obstacle standing between Ronaldinho and his 30 million euro (33.6m dollars) transfer to Barcelona was removed when he sailed through his medical. . . . more . . .

Ronaldinho arrives in Barcelona to tie up deal (Jul 19, 2003)

Ronaldinho arrived here from Brazil to finalise personal details after Barcelona announced they had beaten Manchester United in the race to sign the Brazilian World Cup winner. . . . more . . .

Morris confident about Leeds move (Jul 19, 2003)

Leeds' new signing Jody Morris believes he can help turn the struggling Premiership's fortunes around after completing his free transfer to Elland Road. . . . more . . .

Ronaldinho joins Barcelona (Jul 19, 2003)

Ronaldinho signed a five-year contract with Barcelona and must pass a medical the following day before completing a move from Paris St Germain, the Spanish club announced. . . . more . . .

Martyn rejects Chelsea approach (Jul 18, 2003)

England goalkeeper Nigel Martyn is staying at Leeds United despite a 500,000 pounds (800,000 dollars) bid from English Premiership rivals Chelsea, his manager at Elland Road, Peter Reid, said Friday. . . . more . . .

Morris joins Leeds on free transfer (Jul 18, 2003)

English Premiership club Leeds signed Chelsea's Jody Morris on a free transfer after the midfielder passed a medical. . . . more . . .

Bridge in Chelsea talks (Jul 18, 2003)

Southampton said they had allowed their England left-back Wayne Bridge to talk to Chelsea after the south coast club accepted a bid for the defender from their English Premiership rivals. . . . more . . .

US women face World Cup "Group of Death" (Jul 18, 2003)

Being drawn into the Women's World Cup "Group of Death" has given United States players extra motivation as they prepare to defend the crown on home soil, US coach April Heinrichs said. . . . more . . .

Ronaldinho's Manchester move in limbo (Jul 18, 2003)

The marathon transfer saga of World Cup winner Ronaldinho is on hold over the weekend after a flurry of activity to capture the Brazilian's signature, sources said. . . . more . . .

Tottenham sign Zamora (Jul 18, 2003)

Tottenham Hotspur signed England Under-21 striker Bobby Zamora from English Second Division side Brighton in a 1.5million pounds (2.4million dollars) move. . . . more . . .

Finnan out of Far East tour: report (Jul 18, 2003)

Liverpool's new recruit, Irish full-back Steve Finnan has been ruled out of the club's pre-season matches in Bangkok and Hong Kong, a report said. . . . more . . .

Merson joins Walsall (Jul 18, 2003)

Former England international Paul Merson joined First Division Walsall from Premiership newboys Portsmouth. . . . more . . .

Milito unveiling put on hold (Jul 18, 2003)

The unveiling of Real Madrid's new recruit, Argentine international defender Gabriel Alejandro Milito, has been put back indefinitely for medical reasons. . . . more . . .

Premiership giants Liverpool confirm strong squad for Hong Kong friendly (Jul 18, 2003)

English Premiership league giants Liverpool confirmed they would field their strongest team for a match against Hong Kong on July 27, including their recent signing from Leeds, Harry Kewell. . . . more . . .

Rangers sign Georgian international (Jul 18, 2003)

Scottish champions Rangers signed Georgian international Zurab Khizanishvili on a three-year deal. . . . more . . .

Van Nistelrooy says fans must back Ferguson (Jul 18, 2003)

Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has called on the English Premiership champions' fans to back the judgement of manager Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .

No-show Camoranesi in hot water (Jul 18, 2003)

Juventus wing-back Mauro Camoranesi is in hot water after he failed to turn up for pre-season training. . . . more . . .

French-kissing Cantona causes commotion (Jul 18, 2003)

Former French footballer Eric Cantona, known for his unruly escapades on the pitch, created a scandal during a flight to Norway this week when he refused to cool his libido despite passengers' requests, Norwegian radio reported. . . . more . . .

Fadiga plays down heart fears (Jul 18, 2003)

Senegal international Khalilou Fadiga is confident his proposed move from Auxerre to Inter Milan will go ahead despite fears over his health. . . . more . . .

Dortmund eyeing Grygera (Jul 18, 2003)

Zdenek Grygera, the Czech international full-back, is being targetted by Borussia Dortmund to fill the gap left by crocked duo Evanilson and Torsten Frings. . . . more . . .

Keegan snaps up Sinclair (Jul 18, 2003)

England winger Trevor Sinclair has agreed to join Kevin Keegan's Manchester City in a two and a half million pound (four million dollar) move from relegated West Ham United. . . . more . . .

Abramovich's new investment slumps as racist taunts mar friendly (Jul 18, 2003)

Big spenders Chelsea lost 2-0 to Lazio here at the Flaminio stadium in a friendly marred by the racial abuse aimed at the Premiership club's black players by large sections of the Italian crowd. . . . more . . .

Fenerbahce axe Ghana's Johnson (Jul 17, 2003)

Fenerbahce sacked Ghanaian international defender Samuel Johnson as part of the changes demanded by new German coach Christophe Daum. . . . more . . .

Larsson on target as Celtic triumph over Fulham (Jul 17, 2003)

Quickfire goals from Stilian Petrov and Henrik Larsson earned UEFA Cup finalists Celtic a 2-1 victory in a friendly with Fulham. . . . more . . .

Frings go wrong for Dortmund (Jul 17, 2003)

Borussia Dortmund were rocked by the news that German international Torsten Frings and Brazilian defender Evanilson will be sidelined for around six months with knee injuries. . . . more . . .

Man Utd 'not playing by rules' in Ronaldinho transfer: PSG (Jul 17, 2003)

Paris St Germain's president Francis Graille hit out at Manchester United, saying they were failing to follow FIFA rules in their pursuit of Brazilian midfielder Ronaldinho. . . . more . . .

Tommasi takes pay cut to stay at Roma (Jul 17, 2003)

AS Roma midfielder Damiano Tommasi has signed a two year contract extension that will tie him to the club until 2006. . . . more . . .

Belgian defender Van Buyten turns down English move (Jul 17, 2003)

Belgian international defender Daniel Van Buyten, wanted by several English Premiership clubs including Manchester United, said he would be staying with Olympique Marseille. . . . more . . .

Rangers ready to bid for Phillips (Jul 17, 2003)

Rangers are set to hand want-away Sunderland striker Kevin Phillips a chance to rescue his career. . . . more . . .

Hosts USA drawn with Sweden, Nigeria and North Korea (Jul 17, 2003)

Host nation and reigning champions the United States were drawn with Sweden, Nigeria and North Korea in the first round Group A of this year's women's World Cup. . . . more . . .

United close in on Brazil pair (Jul 17, 2003)

Manchester United were expected to complete the signing of Brazil's World Cup winning midfielder Kleberson. . . . more . . .

Bolton bolster defence with Campo signing (Jul 17, 2003)

Bolton have signed Spanish defender Ivan Campo who helped them escape relegation from the English Premiership last season. . . . more . . .

South African in Beckham thumb incident joins Le Mans (Jul 17, 2003)

Thabang Molefe, the South African defender whose challenge during a friendly international in May broke David Beckham's thumb, has signed for French first division newcomers Le Mans. . . . more . . .

Irish winger Duff in Chelsea talks (Jul 17, 2003)

Damien Duff was set to open talks with Chelsea after Blackburn Rovers accepted a reported 17 million pound (27.2 million dollar) bid for the Republic of Ireland winger. . . . more . . .

Wenger rules out Vieira move (Jul 17, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has dismissed reports of skipper Patrick Vieira moving to Chelsea, Manchester United, or any other club. . . . more . . .

Garcia lets McManaman's Arsenal secret out (Jul 17, 2003)

Golfer Sergio Garcia may have let the secret slip when he claimed his friend Steve McManaman was on the verge of leaving Real Madrid for Arsenal. . . . more . . .

Ferguson meets PSG president over Ronaldinho move (Jul 17, 2003)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson held lengthy talks with Paris St Germain president Francis Graille over the transfer of Brazilian midfielder Ronaldinho. . . . more . . .

Former Yugoslav rivals fight pitched battle in Switzerland (Jul 17, 2003)

Riot police had to break up a pitched battle between players and fans of former Yugoslav clubs Dinamo Zagreb and Partizan Belgrade in a friendly soccer tournament. . . . more . . .

Chelsea target Davids staying with Juventus (Jul 17, 2003)

Chelsea transfer target Edgar Davids is to see out the final year of his contract with Juventus and could extend his stay with the Italian champions, according to the Dutch midfielder's agent. . . . more . . .

US goalkeeper prepares for pressure of Manchester United (Jul 17, 2003)

Tim Howard has developed mental toughness dealing with Tourette's Syndrome, discipline that will serve him well as he prepares to handle the pressure of joining Manchester United. . . . more . . .

Hothead Cassano given four-match ban for cup tantrum (Jul 17, 2003)

AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano received a four-match ban for his behaviour in the second leg of the Italian cup final against Milan back in in May. . . . more . . .

Irish winger Duff locked in Chelsea talks (Jul 17, 2003)

Damien Duff was deep in talks with Chelsea after Blackburn Rovers accepted a reported 17 million (27.2 million dollar) bid for the Republic of Ireland winger. . . . more . . .

Tough times ahead for Bayern says Beckenbauer (Jul 17, 2003)

Franz Beckenbauer, the president of Bayern Munich, predicted that the German champions will face stiff competition as they set about trying to retain their Bundesliga title. . . . more . . .

Chelsea cool interest in Veron (Jul 17, 2003)

Chelsea have apparently ended their pursuit of Manchester United's Juan Sebastian Veron. . . . more . . .

Mendieta extends Lazio contract (Jul 17, 2003)

Spanish midfielder Gaizka Mendieta has signed a two year extension to his existing contract that will keep him at Lazio until June 2008, the Italian club confirmed. . . . more . . .

Barcelona sign up gifted Portuguese teenager (Jul 17, 2003)

Sporting Lisbon's highly rated teenage striker Ricardo Quaresma has moved to Barcelona on a six million euro (6.7 million dollar) transfer. . . . more . . .

Fitness doubts leave Fadiga's Inter move in danger (Jul 17, 2003)

Khalilou Fadiga's move from Auxerre to Inter Milan could be in danger after the Senegal midfielder failed to prove his fitness during a medical. . . . more . . .

No favours for Everton striker Rooney (Jul 16, 2003)

Wayne Rooney might be rated England's brightest prospect for years but the 17-year-old has been told he will be given no favours at English Premiership side Everton. . . . more . . .

Liverpool move still on cards for Auxerre defender Boumsong (Jul 16, 2003)

Jean-Alain Boumsong could force Auxerre to sell him to Liverpool next season by refusing to sign an sign an extension to his contract which expires in June 2004, which would allow the English club to snap up the defender for nothing. . . . more . . .