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Archive soccer news from around the world

New Ridsdale successor says future sales a last resort (Mar 31, 2003)

New Leeds United boss John McKenzie refused to rule out further sales to help balance the books at the English Premiership club. . . . more . . .

Derby look to Burley to win relegation battle (Mar 31, 2003)

English First Division strugglers Derby County appointed George Burley as interim manager in place of suspended manager John Gregory. . . . more . . .

Flawed Diouf favoured to remain pride of Africa (Mar 31, 2003)

Senegal striker El Hadji Diouf seems set to remain African Footballer of the Year when the result of the 2002 poll is announced. . . . more . . .

Slashed admission prices bring Napoli fans flooding back (Mar 31, 2003)

Fallen Italian giants Napoli are expecting a 70,000 capacity crowd for their second division match at home to Vicenza after the club's directors decided to lower admission prices. . . . more . . .

England boost as Campbell declares himself fit for Turkey (Mar 31, 2003)

England's Euro 2004 qualifying chances were given a huge boost when Arsenal centre-back Sol Campbell declared himself fit to face Turkey in Wednesday's crucial qualifier. . . . more . . .

Rivaldo dismisses talk of Milan departure (Mar 31, 2003)

Brazilian World Cup winner Rivaldo has moved quickly to dismiss talk that he wants to leave AC Milan. . . . more . . .

Maldini extends Milan contract (Mar 31, 2003)

AC Milan defender Paolo Maldini has signed a one-year extension to his existing contract, the Italian Serie A club confirmed. . . . more . . .

Eriksson promises improved display from England (Mar 31, 2003)

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson, hopeful Sol Campbell and Emile Heskey will prove their fitness, has promised a better display for the Euro 2004 qualifier against Turkey. . . . more . . .

Beckham tells England only win will do (Mar 31, 2003)

England skipper David Beckham has warned his team-mates that nothing less than a win will do in Wednesday's Euro 2004 qualifying crunch with Turkey. . . . more . . .

Under-fire Leeds boss Risdale quits (Mar 31, 2003)

Under-fire Leeds United chairman Peter Ridsdale resigned, the listed English Premiership club told the London Stock Exchange. . . . more . . .

Under-fire Leeds chairman Ridsdale quits (Mar 31, 2003)

Leeds United parted company with their under-fire chairman Peter Ridsdale as the English Premiership side geared up to fight off relegation. . . . more . . .

Ukraine and Spain share points in Kiev (Mar 31, 2003)

Spain remained on top of the 2004 European championship qualifying Group Six after a 2-2 draw with hosts Ukraine. . . . more . . .

Fulham rule out O'Leary for manager's job (Mar 31, 2003)

English Premiership side Fulham said that they had ruled out former Leeds boss David O'Leary as a successor to Jean Tigana. . . . more . . .

Bolton's Frandsen confident ahead of relegation battle (Mar 31, 2003)

Veteran Bolton midfielder Per Frandsen is convinced the club will win their Premier League survival fight. . . . more . . .

Serginho boost for Milan (Mar 31, 2003)

AC Milan's Serginho has recovered from a knee injury and is available for this weekend's tricky league match away to fifth-placed Parma, the club has confirmed. . . . more . . .

Russia wants Georgia match switched to neutral ground (Mar 31, 2003)

Russia's football union chief said Monday he has asked UEFA to switch the venue of Russia's Euro 2004 qualifier with Georgia to a neutral venue because of instability in the former Soviet republic. . . . more . . .

Vogts gags Scotland backchat (Mar 31, 2003)

Scotland manager Berti Vogts has told his players to cut out the backchat to referees in their bid to qualify for the Euro 2004 finals. . . . more . . .

Trapattoni targets Welsh as Italy bounce back (Mar 31, 2003)

Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni believes his side can catch Group Nine leaders Wales and qualify automatically for next year's European championships in Portugal. . . . more . . .

Chilavert ponders Costa Rica move (Mar 30, 2003)

Paraguayan international goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert is considering a move to a top Costa Rican club. . . . more . . .

Chelsea face wait on Gudjohnsen (Mar 30, 2003)

Chelsea are waiting on the fitness of Icelandic striker Eidur Gudjohnsen after he limped off in the 2-1 Euro 2004 qualifier defeat by Scotland. . . . more . . .

Portuguese hark back to 1966 and all that (Mar 30, 2003)

There was no Eusebio to lead the charge but Euro 2004 hosts Portugal harked back to 1966 in beating Brazil for the first time since that golden age in Saturday's friendly here. . . . more . . .

Germany run out of ideas as Euro battle hots up (Mar 30, 2003)

World Cup runners-up they may be but Germany are in a battle to reach the Euro 2004 finals following Saturday's 1-1 home draw against Lithuania which allowed Scotland to move top of their group. . . . more . . .

O'Leary hints at interest in Fulham (Mar 30, 2003)

Former Leeds boss David O'Leary has hinted he would be interested in replacing Jean Tigana at Fulham. . . . more . . .

Bad boy Bellamy redeems himself in quickfire style (Mar 30, 2003)

Craig Bellamy has made a habit of bouncing from villain to hero throughout his career but 13 seconds is quick going even by his standards. . . . more . . .

Knife incident mars Ireland win (Mar 30, 2003)

Ireland midfielder Kevin Kilbane said he was hit on the arm by an open pen-knife during the 2-1 Euro 2004 win over Georgia in Yerevan. . . . more . . .

Hitzfeld to extend Bayern deal to 2005: Rummenigge (Mar 30, 2003)

Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld is to extend his deal with the club by a year to 2005, club president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge told Bild am Sonntag weekly. . . . more . . .

Schmeichel still undecided about City extension (Mar 29, 2003)

Peter Schmeichel has still not made up his mind about whether to extend his Manchester City contract beyond the summer. . . . more . . .

Vieri on target twice to put Italy back on track (Mar 29, 2003)

A resurgent Italy boosted their hopes of qualifying for next year's European championships in Portugal after defeating Group Nine rivals Finland 2-0. . . . more . . .

Bad boy 'Mido' comes good for Egypt (Mar 29, 2003)

Egypt clawed back into contention for a place at the 2004 African Nations Cup with a 1-0 win in Mauritius. . . . more . . .

Bertie wants Scots to be on song (Mar 29, 2003)

Scotland manager Bertie Vogts has told his players to sing for their supper if they want to taste success. . . . more . . .

England do the bare minimum as rampant Wales streak on (Mar 29, 2003)

England did the bare minimum in beating tiny Liechtenstein 2-0 to stay in the hunt for a place in the finals of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .

Czech mate as Dutch share honours (Mar 29, 2003)

A Ruud van Nistelrooy header on the stroke of half-time kept the Netherlands on top of Group Three but the home side had to share the honours with a 1-1 European qualifer draw against the Czech Republic. . . . more . . .

Gazza notches debut goal to open Chinese adventure (Mar 29, 2003)

Former England international Paul Gascoigne got his new second division Chinese club Gansu Tianma off to a roaring start in its league opener, scoring a spectacular goal in a 2-0 win over Qingdao Hailifeng. . . . more . . .

Ukraine and Spain share points in Kiev (Mar 29, 2003)

Spain remained on top of the 2004 European championship qualifying Group Six after a 2-2 draw with hosts Ukraine. . . . more . . .

Northern Irish drought extended with loss to Armenia (Mar 29, 2003)

Northern Ireland all but waved farewell to their slender chances of qualifying for Euro 2004 when they lost their Group Six encounter to Armenia 1-0. . . . more . . .

South Korea, Colombia draw in soccer friendly (Mar 29, 2003)

South Korea were held to a goalless draw by Colombia in a scrappy football friendly at the World cup stadium. . . . more . . .

'Talisman' Gerrard discounts danger of Macedonia repeat (Mar 28, 2003)

Liverpool's England midfielder Steven Gerrard is hoping to remains a talisman for his country ahead of Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier away to Liechtenstein. . . . more . . .

Banana skin alert follows terror alert for England (Mar 28, 2003)

Against the gloomy backdrop of war in Iraq football will creep back towards centre stage for a raft of crucial Euro 2004 qualifiers. . . . more . . .

Spurs say Hoddle is safe (Mar 28, 2003)

Tottenham insisted that reports coach Glenn Hoddle might be forced out of White Hart Lane in the summer were unfounded. . . . more . . .

Welsh put faith in Edwards (Mar 28, 2003)

Wales are to throw 20-year-old Aston Villa defender Rob Edwards into the deep end on Saturday in their Euro 2004 qualifier with Azerbaijan. . . . more . . .

Italy desperate to avoid Finnish fiasco (Mar 28, 2003)

Italy's flickering hopes of qualifying for the 2004 European championships could be virtually extinguished should they trip up at home to Finland. . . . more . . .

Season over for Metzelder (Mar 28, 2003)

German international defender Christoph Metzelder will be out for the rest of the season because of an ankle injury which requires surgery, his team Dortmund said Friday. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid blow cold on Beckham bid (Mar 28, 2003)

Spanish giants Real Madrid says there is little likelihood of them making a reported 40 million pound (60 million dollar) bid for Manchester United star David Beckham. . . . more . . .

Leeds keeper dismisses Arsenal move (Mar 28, 2003)

Leeds goalkeeper Paul Robinson has dismissed speculation linking him with a potential big-money move to Arsenal this summer. . . . more . . .

Keane to miss Georgia game (Mar 28, 2003)

Robbie Keane is out of the Republic of Ireland's Euro 2004 qualifier against Georgia on Saturday night. . . . more . . .

Giggs calls on Welsh to stay steady (Mar 28, 2003)

Ryan Giggs has warned his Wales team-mates not to blow their big chance as they bid to reach the Euro 2004 finals next summer. . . . more . . .

Spanish league ratifies Barca's two-match Nou Camp ban (Mar 28, 2003)

The Spanish Football Federation ratified a two-match ban handed down to Barcelona, who must play two matches behind closed doors at their Nou Camp stadium following serious crowd trouble last year. . . . more . . .

Kenny set to lead Ireland against Georgia (Mar 28, 2003)

Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr is set to name Kenny Cunningham as his captain for Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier against Georgia in Tbilisi. . . . more . . .

Captain's armband won't change Zidane's style (Mar 28, 2003)

Real Madrid midfielder Zinedine Zidane said he will not change his style after being handed the captain's armband for Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier against Malta. . . . more . . .

Kewell pays tribute to Venables (Mar 28, 2003)

Leeds midfielder Harry Kewell paid tribute to former Elland Road boss Terry Venables as the "best manager" he has ever played under. . . . more . . .

Paul Gascoigne wants to play Saturday for his Chinese club (Mar 28, 2003)

The elder statesman of British football Paul Gascoigne has stated he wants to play for the first time for the second division Chinese club Gansu Tianma, which he joined two months ago. . . . more . . .

Captain Zidane to lead France (Mar 27, 2003)

Real Madrid midfielder Zinedine Zidane will captain France in the Euro 2004 qualifiers against Malta and Israel . . . . more . . .

Charlton snap up Iceland defender (Mar 27, 2003)

Charlton completed the 900,000-pound signing of Ipswich's Icelandic international defender Hermann Hreidarsson. . . . more . . .

Ivory Coast prepare for Burundi clash (Mar 27, 2003)

Former Africa champions Ivory Coast have set up camp in Kenya to prepare for their African Nations Cup qualifier against Burundi in Bujumbura. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo fears "Big Phil" in Portugal friendly (Mar 27, 2003)

Brazilian star Ronaldo has said Brazil is in for a rough ride when it faces Portugal in a friendly on Saturday now that his former boss Luiz Filipe Scolari is in charge of the Portuguese side. . . . more . . .

Collins rules himself out of Fulham job (Mar 27, 2003)

Fulham's former Scotland midfielder John Collins ruled himself out of the race to succeed Jean Tigana as manager of the London club - just hours after his agent suggested he would be interested. . . . more . . .

Kahn nabbed for speeding (Mar 27, 2003)

Troubled German international captain Oliver Kahn has been stripped of his driving licence for two months for speeding, Munich daily Abendzeitung reported in their Friday edition. . . . more . . .

Arsenal boss warns French stars to lower pay demands (Mar 27, 2003)

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood says top earners like Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires would be allowed to leave if they do not lower their wage demands. . . . more . . .

Wolfman Miller desperate to shake off promising youngster tag (Mar 27, 2003)

Kenny Miller, Wolves' 21-goal striker who is tipped to lead Scotland's attack against Iceland on Saturday, admits he hates nothing more than being described as a "promising youngster." . . . more . . .

Ankle injury set to keep Pires sidelined for French (Mar 27, 2003)

An ankle knock picked up in Arsenal's FA Cup win over Chelsea is set to keep midfielder Robert Pires out of France's home Euro 20004 qualifier on Saturday against Malta. . . . more . . .

Villa's Dublin facing three-match ban (Mar 27, 2003)

Aston Villa striker Dion Dublin is facing another three-match ban after being hit with two Football Association charges over his conduct in the recent Birmingham derby. . . . more . . .

Arsenal's Jeffers hits back at Osgood lashing (Mar 27, 2003)

Arsenal striker Francis Jeffers has hit back at former Chelsea star Peter Osgood who called him the biggest cheat he had ever seen. . . . more . . .

Kaiserslautern have points deducted, fined for "irregularities" (Mar 27, 2003)

The German football league(DFL) fined first division strugglers Kaiserslautern 125,000 euros (133,518 dollars) and deducted the club three points for what it called "irregularities in documents submitted to obtain a licence." . . . more . . .

Djalminha to quit Austria Vienna at season's end (Mar 27, 2003)

Austrian first division leader's Austria Vienna said they will not be renewing the contract of Brazilian midfielder Djalminha Feitosa at season's end. . . . more . . .

Miccoli tips Cosmi for big club move (Mar 27, 2003)

Perugia striker Fabrizio Miccoli believes team coach Serse Cosmi will not be out of his depth should he move to a bigger Serie A club this summer. . . . more . . .

Wenger chases Chelsea's Terry to bolster defence (Mar 27, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was reported to be ready to offer Chelsea 12 million pounds (18 million dollars) for England defender John Terry. . . . more . . .

Collins in for Fulham job (Mar 27, 2003)

Former Scotland midfielder John Collins has expressed tentative interest in succeeding Jean Tigana as manager of Fulham. . . . more . . .

Bayern Munich and Dortmund vie for Klose (Mar 27, 2003)

Kaiserslautern's German international striker Miroslav Klose revealed he has received offers from Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. . . . more . . .

Fortune closes in on fitness and new United deal (Mar 27, 2003)

Quinton Fortune is on track to be fit for the climax of Manchester United's Premiership and Champions League campaigns and is hoping he can land himself a new deal at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .

Iceland ace vows to put Scots out in the cold (Mar 27, 2003)

Iceland's Chelsea striker Eidur Gudjohnsen has warned Scotland he is in the mood to derail their Euro 2004 campaign at Hampden Park. . . . more . . .

Portugal-Macedonia friendly switched to Lausanne (Mar 26, 2003)

Portugal's friendly international football match with Macedonia scheduled for Geneva on April 2 has been switched to Lausanne on the same day because of security fears concerning the travelling fans, Lausanne Sports have announced. . . . more . . .

Birmingham lose Morrison for survival battle (Mar 26, 2003)

Birmingham's Premiership survival campaign was dealt a severe blow when striker Clinton Morrison ruled himself out of action for the remainder of the season. . . . more . . .

O'Leary tops betting for Fulham job (Mar 26, 2003)

Former Leeds boss David O'Leary has been installed as the early favourite to replace Jean Tigana at Fulham with veteran player John Collins, Louis Van Gaal and former Japan coach Philippe Troussier also touted as potential candidates. . . . more . . .

Fulham manager Tigana to leave (Mar 26, 2003)

English Premiership club Fulham said French manager Jean Tigana will leave in the summer. . . . more . . .

Al Fayed pulls the plug on Tigana (Mar 26, 2003)

Fulham announced they would not be renewing manager Jean Tigana's contract this summer. . . . more . . .

Serbia v Wales Euro qualifier postponed (Mar 26, 2003)

The Euro 2004 Group Nine qualifier between Wales and Serbia and Montenegro scheduled for Belgrade on April 2 has been postponed until August 20, European football's governing body UEFA said. . . . more . . .

Premiership giants Liverpool to play Hong Kong friendly in July (Mar 26, 2003)

English premiership giants Liverpool annnounced they will play a pre-season friendly match against Hong Kong on July 27 at Hong Kong Stadium. . . . more . . .

Wilmots takes over from sacked Neubarth (Mar 26, 2003)

Schalke 04's former Belgium football captain Marc Wilmots has taken over as player-coach of the German outfit until season's end following the sacking of coach Frank Neubarth. . . . more . . .

Campbell set to miss England match (Mar 26, 2003)

Arsenal defender Sol Campbell is set to miss England's Euro 2004 qualifier with Liechtenstein on Saturday but is expected to be fit for World Cup semi-finalists Turkey. . . . more . . .

Arsenal demand inquiry into Henry attack (Mar 26, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has demanded a Football Association inquiry after Thierry Henry was hit by a missile thrown by Chelsea fans for the second time in 17 days. . . . more . . .

2004 Champions League final set for Gelsenkirchen (Mar 26, 2003)

The 2004 Champions League football final will take place in the west German city of Gelsenkirchen, while the UEFA Cup final will be played in Gothenburg, Sweden, European football's governing body UEFA's Executive Committee have agreed during their two-day meeting here. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid plan Beckham bid (Mar 26, 2003)

Spanish giants Real Madrid were reported to be ready to make a 40 million pound (60 million dollar) bid for Manchester United star David Beckham. . . . more . . .

Kewell to stay with Leeds (Mar 26, 2003)

Despite the club's abysmal season Leeds striker Harry Kewell is set to stay put at Elland Road and sign a new deal in the next few weeks, his agent said. . . . more . . .

Ankle injury to keep Pires sidelined for French (Mar 26, 2003)

An ankle knock picked up in Arsenal's FA Cup win over Chelsea is set to keep midfielder Robert Pires out of France's home Euro 20004 qualifier on Saturday against Malta. . . . more . . .

Lambert ready to soldier on to Euro finals (Mar 26, 2003)

Scotland captain Paul Lambert is ready to extend his international career for an extra year if Berti Vogts' side are on track to make it to the Euro 2004 finals in Portugal. . . . more . . .

United boss Ferguson takes a break (Mar 26, 2003)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson, with most of his star players involved in weekend internationals, has taken a sunshine break in Spain. . . . more . . .

Georgia confident of beating Ireland (Mar 26, 2003)

Georgia's Alexander Chivadze has predicted that his side were set to improve their position in the 2004 European championship Group 10 table by beating Ireland on Saturday. . . . more . . .

Karembeu suspended again (Mar 26, 2003)

Olympiakos' French World Cup winner Christian Karembeu was suspended for one match by the disciplinary committee of the Hellenic Football Federation (HFF) over a violent incident in a match last month which cost him a red card. . . . more . . .

Terry holds fire on new Chelsea deal (Mar 26, 2003)

Chelsea defender John Terry, who hopes to make his England debut in Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier in Liechtenstein, is holding out for a big pay rise before he will sign a new contract, it emerged. . . . more . . .

Welsh striker Bellamy faces court hearing (Mar 26, 2003)

Welsh striker Craig Bellamy has been summonsed to appear in court over his alleged racist outburst at a Cardiff nightclub. . . . more . . .

Passion play is Reid's wish for Leeds (Mar 26, 2003)

Leeds coach Peter Reid is calling for his new side to show more passion as they fight the drop from the English Premiership. . . . more . . .

England boss Eriksson wary of Liechtenstein part-timers (Mar 25, 2003)

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson refuses to write off part-timers Liechtenstein in Saturday's David versus Goliath Euro 2004 qualifier. . . . more . . .

Juve have the edge in tight Italian title race (Mar 25, 2003)

With eight games to go and just five points separating the top three teams, the race for the Italian title promises to be as close as last season's when it was decided on the final day. . . . more . . .

Barca given two-match Nou Camp ban for Figo attack (Mar 25, 2003)

Barcelona are considering whether to appeal over an order to shut their fabled Nou Camp stadium for two matches following serious crowd trouble last year. . . . more . . .

UEFA director general Aigner to stand down (Mar 25, 2003)

UEFA director general Gerhard Aigner announced that he planned to retire at the end of the year. . . . more . . .

United target Turkish striker Kahveci: media (Mar 25, 2003)

Manchester United are closing in on Real Sociedad's Turkish striker Nihat Kahveci, local radio reported here. . . . more . . .

Bellamy on probation as Newcastle reprimand him (Mar 25, 2003)

Welsh striker Craig Bellamy was reprimanded by his Premiership club Newcastle over being drunk and disorderly and warned that any repeat behaviour could have serious consequences for him. . . . more . . .

English clubs set for club-versus-country battle (Mar 25, 2003)

England's biggest football clubs are prepared to ban their foreign stars from playing internationals. . . . more . . .

French coach mulls over captaincy (Mar 25, 2003)

France coach Jacques Santini refuses to be rushed into picking a replacement captain for Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier against Group 1 minnows Malta. . . . more . . .

Man from Mars set to knock Arsenal off orbit (Mar 25, 2003)

Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri believes his tough central defender John Terry has what it takes to handle Arsenal's French firepower in Tuesday's FA Cup quarter-final replay. . . . more . . .

Vieira eyeing French captain's job (Mar 25, 2003)

Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira says he would be only too happy to take over the stewardship of France for the upcoming Euro 2004 qualifiers in the absence of the injured Marcel Desailly. . . . more . . .

Gunners give Chelsea the Blues to stay on course for double (Mar 25, 2003)

Arsenal took another step towards an historic back-to-back domestic double as they beat Chelsea 3-1 at Stamford Bridge in the FA Cup quarter-final replay. . . . more . . .

Deco hits back at critics of Scolari's selection policy (Mar 25, 2003)

FC Porto's Brazilian midfielder Deco insisted he felt just as Portuguese as Brazilian in a clear dig at critics of Portugal coach Luis Felipe Scolari's policy of selecting players like Deco who have adopted Portuguese citizenship. . . . more . . .

Vialli dreaming of Italian job (Mar 25, 2003)

Former Chelsea and Watford manager Gianluca Vialli has said he would jump at the chance of becoming coach of either Italy or his old club Juventus. . . . more . . .

Denilson set to miss rest of season (Mar 25, 2003)

Brazilian World Cup winning midfielder Denilson looks set to miss the rest of the season after his Spanish First Division club Real Betis revealed he has to undergo a right knee operation. . . . more . . .

England get green light for Liechtenstein clash (Mar 24, 2003)

England's Euro 2004 qualifer with Liechtenstein is to go ahead as planned on Saturday it was revealed by the Football Association(FA). . . . more . . .

Confederations Cup gets FIFA all-clear (Mar 24, 2003)

International football authorities cleared up doubts Monday over whether the Confederations Cup would go ahead in June in France. . . . more . . .

Bellamy embroiled in racial abuse allegations (Mar 24, 2003)

Wales's build-up to Saturday's Euro 2004 Group Nine qualifier with Azerbaijan were hit by claims that star striker Craig Bellamy is at the centre of allegations of racial abuse at a nightclub here. . . . more . . .

Rooney's Highbury showing woos Eriksson (Mar 24, 2003)

England boss Sven Goran Eriksson said it was Wayne Rooney's mature showing for Everton against Arsenal at Highbury on Sunday that prompted his inclusion in his Euro 2004 qualifier squad to face Liechtenstein and Turkey. . . . more . . .

Arsenal to give star duo late fitness tests (Mar 24, 2003)

Arsenal are set to give fitness tests to England central defender Sol Campbell and French midfielder Patrick Vieira just hours ahead of their FA Cup quarter-final replay with Chelsea. . . . more . . .

Inter president backs under-fire Cuper (Mar 24, 2003)

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti dismissed media reports that he is looking to replace his coach Hector Cuper. . . . more . . .

Eriksson wants green light for Liechtenstein qualifier (Mar 24, 2003)

England coach Sven Goran Eriksson said he had no safety qualms about going ahead with Saturday's sensitive Euro 2004 qualifier in Liechtenstein. . . . more . . .

Tired Gunners face Chelsea challenge (Mar 24, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says he can count on his tired players battling through the pain barrier to beat Chelsea in their FA Cup quarter-final replay. . . . more . . .

Rangers Captain Courageous commits himself to Ibrox (Mar 24, 2003)

Rangers captain Barry Ferguson signed a new five-year contract that will keep him at Ibrox until 2008. . . . more . . .

Vogts calls up seven more players (Mar 24, 2003)

Scotland manager Berti Vogts has called up seven more players to complete his squad for the Euro 2004 qualifiers against Iceland and Lithuania. . . . more . . .

AC Milan's Rui Costa dreams of return to Benfica (Mar 24, 2003)

AC Milan's Portuguese international midfielder Rui Costa has said he would like to return to Lisbon-based Benfica, Portugal's most widely supported club. . . . more . . .

Inter miss out on top spot (Mar 24, 2003)

Inter Milan missed out on the chance to join Serie A title rivals Juventus at the top of Serie A after losing 2-1 at Udinese. . . . more . . .

Timely boost for Inter as Crespo targets Roma clash (Mar 24, 2003)

Inter Milan's Argentine striker Hernan Crespo is expected to make his long-awaited return from injury in the club's next Serie A match at home to AS Roma. . . . more . . .

High-flying Newcastle score with record profits (Mar 24, 2003)

Premiership football club Newcastle United belied the general financial gloom in the English game to announce record operating profits, up by 183 percent. . . . more . . .

Milan back in Italian race - but Bayern's is almost won (Mar 24, 2003)

AC Milan threw themselves back into the Italian title race after defeating league leaders Juventus 2-1 at a sold-out San Siro but Inter Milan failed to take advantage as they slipped to a 2-1 reverse in Udinese. . . . more . . .

Dugarry looks to permanent move to Birmingham (Mar 24, 2003)

French World Cup winner Christophe Dugarry wants to stay at Birmingham on a permanent basis once his loan deal expires in the summer. . . . more . . .

Brazilian sharp shooter threatens Bremen walk-out (Mar 24, 2003)

Werder Bremen's Brazilian striker Ailton threatened to take his silky goalscoring skills elsewhere if the German first division club failed to qualify for Europe. . . . more . . .

Beckham hits out at United rumours (Mar 24, 2003)

England captain David Beckham has slammed rumours of a player rift splitting Manchester United. . . . more . . .

Jay-Jay makes Spurs pay the penalty (Mar 24, 2003)

Bolton's hopes of avoiding relegation received a huge boost as Nigerian star Jay Jay Okocha scored an injury-time penalty to give them a deserved 1-0 victory over a lacklustre Spurs. . . . more . . .

England game in danger as war fears grow (Mar 23, 2003)

England's Euro 2004 qualifier in Liechtenstein on Wednesday is in danger of being postponed over fears for the safety of Sven-Goran Eriksson's men. . . . more . . .

West Ham look to England young guns for Great Escape (Mar 23, 2003)

West Ham manager Glenn Roeder hailed his England youngsters as the key to a 2-0 win over Sunderland that allowed the Hammers to escape the relegation zone for the first time since November. . . . more . . .

Mido has the Midas touch as he makes his mark quickly at Celta (Mar 23, 2003)

Egyptian striker Mido needed little time to settle in at Celta Vigo and took just 19 minutes to score in the Galicians' 2-1 win over Athletic Bilbao. . . . more . . .

Inzaghi strikes to haul Milan back into title race (Mar 23, 2003)

AC Milan threw themselves back into the title race after defeating league leaders Juventus 2-1 at a sold-out San Siro. . . . more . . .

Adriano keeps the heat on Lazio (Mar 23, 2003)

Parma gave their Champions League ambitions a huge boost after beating Lazio 2-1 in Italy's Serie A. . . . more . . .

Arsenal survive Rooney scare to move back to top (Mar 23, 2003)

Arsenal survived an almighty scare at the hands of Everton's teenage rebel Wayne Rooney before returning to the top of the Premiership with a 2-1 win over Everton. . . . more . . .

McCarthy still lives in hope (Mar 23, 2003)

Mick McCarthy was left Sunday pondering what his options are to save Sunderland's place in the Premiership after his first match in charge ended in yet another defeat. . . . more . . .

Ronaldinho focused on PSG future (Mar 23, 2003)

Paris Saint Germain's World Cup winner Ronaldinho played down reports linking him with several top European sides, saying he was focused on his club's battle to win a Champions League slot. . . . more . . .

No relief for Reid as Liverpool plunge Leeds deeper into mire (Mar 23, 2003)

Liverpool bounced back from their UEFA Cup exit and sent Leeds to the brink of the relegation quagmire with an impressive 3-1 win at Anfield. . . . more . . .

O'Neill slams SFA over winter-break (Mar 23, 2003)

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has slammed the Scottish football authorities for their decision to end the winter-break for the Premier League. . . . more . . .

Derby ends in a frustrating 0-0 draw (Mar 23, 2003)

The Madrid derby between Rayo Vallecano and Atletico Madrid ended 0-0, a result that did neither side any favours. . . . more . . .

Hiddink's Eindhoven on brink of title after win over Ajax (Mar 23, 2003)

Former South Korea coach Guus Hiddink is on the brink of celebrating the Dutch league title with PSV Eindhoven after his men beat arch rivals Ajax 2-0. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid extend their lead after Sociedad self-destruction (Mar 23, 2003)

Real Madid gave themselves some breathing space at the top of the Spanish first division, thanks in part to the self-destruction of second-placed Real Sociedad, and extended their lead to three points after their win over Deportivo La Coruna. . . . more . . .

I was sacked reveals bitter Venables (Mar 23, 2003)

Terry Venables revealed he had been sacked from his post as Leeds United manager and he had not left by mutual agreement as stated originally by the cash-strapped club. . . . more . . .

Keegan offers cash carrot in bid to offload spare players (Mar 23, 2003)

Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan has offered a cash incentive to clubs in the First Division who are interested in taking any of his spare players on loan. . . . more . . .

Chelsea boost European dream (Mar 23, 2003)

Chelsea gave their Champions League ambitions a huge boost with a 5-0 thrashing of woeful Manchester City at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .

Quickfire Monaco stay top as Marseille maintain title push (Mar 22, 2003)

Monaco maintained their slender grip in the French title race, cantering past Le Havre 3-0 with all three goals coming in the opening half hour. . . . more . . .

Ruud awakening for Arsenal as Hammers escape drop zone (Mar 22, 2003)

A Ruud van Nistelrooy hat-trick fired Manchester United to a 3-0 win over Fulham that sent Alex Ferguson's side above Arsenal at the top of the Premiership. . . . more . . .

Birmingham put boot into West Brom survival chances (Mar 22, 2003)

A stoppage-time winner from substitute Geoff Horsfield lifted Birmingham to within sight of Premiership survival at the expense of local rivals West Brom, who now looked doomed to the drop. . . . more . . .

Change your mind O'Neill tells Larsson (Mar 22, 2003)

Celtic boss Martin O'Neill has not given up on persuading star striker Henrik Larsson to stay at Parkhead. . . . more . . .

Bayern all but there after Dortmund held (Mar 22, 2003)

Spectacular it may not have been but Bayern Munich moved to the brink of an 18th Bundesliga title with a 1-0 home win over Hansa Rostock. . . . more . . .

Eriksson rules out compensating clubs for call-ups (Mar 22, 2003)

Premiership clubs should not receive compensation for international call-ups said England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson. . . . more . . .

Van Nistelrooy turns the screw on Arsenal (Mar 22, 2003)

A Ruud van Nistelrooy hat-trick sent Manchester United storming to the top of the Premiership for the first time this season and piled the pressure on to stuttering rivals Arsenal. . . . more . . .

Pires could go on strike in Iraq war protest (Mar 22, 2003)

Arsenal's French star Robert Pires has said he would be willing to strike to show his support for President Jacques Chirac's stance against the war in Iraq, the Sun newspaper said. . . . more . . .

Derby suspend manager Gregory (Mar 21, 2003)

English First Division strugglers Derby County suspended manager John Gregory in light of recent allegations made against him. . . . more . . .

Zidane slams 'unjust' war as Japanese stay home (Mar 21, 2003)

French football star Zinedine Zidane slammed the war in Iraq as 'unjust' as Japan announced they were pulling their sports stars from several international competitions. . . . more . . .

City defender told to find another club (Mar 21, 2003)

Manchester City defender Steve Howey has been told to find another club after refusing to accept a place on the bench for Saturday's Premiership clash at Chelsea. . . . more . . .

Manchester set for Real show in Champions League (Mar 21, 2003)

Holders Real Madrid were drawn against Manchester United in the tie of the round in the Champions League quarter-finals. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid target Arsenal's Pires and Vieira (Mar 21, 2003)

Spanish giants Real Madrid were reported to be ready to bid 35 million pounds (52 million dollars) for Arsenal's French stars Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires. . . . more . . .

Celtic given UEFA Cup boost (Mar 21, 2003)

Scottish champions Celtic were given a UEFA Cup boost when they avoided Italian side Lazio and drew Portuguese outfit Boavista in the semi-finals. . . . more . . .

O'Neill in wonderland as Celtic uphold Premiership credentials (Mar 21, 2003)

It is likely to be some time before anyone in England dares to question Celtic and Rangers ability to hold their own in the Premiership. . . . more . . .

Brazilian govt calls on FIFA to help players return home because of war (Mar 21, 2003)

The Brazilian Foreign Affairs Ministry requested that world soccer's govering body FIFA intercede to ensure that their soccer players did not lose out financially if they decided to leave Turkey and the Middle East over war in Iraq. . . . more . . .

Leeds axe boss Venables as Reid takes over temporarily (Mar 21, 2003)

English Premiership side Leeds United sacked manager Terry Venables after just eight months in charge and installed former Sunderland boss Peter Reid as caretaker manager. . . . more . . .

Inter Milan striker Vieri cleared of racism charge (Mar 21, 2003)

Inter Milan striker Christian Vieri was cleared of a charge of racism by UEFA following the Italian club's Champions League tie against Newcastle United on March 11. . . . more . . .

Paris hope to hang onto Ronaldinho (Mar 20, 2003)

Paris St Germain hope to resist bids from Manchester United and Italian clubs Inter and Juventus by extending the contract of their Brazilian World Cup star Ronaldinho. . . . more . . .

Arsenal captain Vieira blasts UEFA over racist attack (Mar 20, 2003)

Arsenal skipper Patrick Vieira, angry at constant taunts from the Valencia fans during their Champions League defeat, says European football's governing body UEFA has failed to stamp out racism. . . . more . . .

Inter president predicts bright future for Nigerian teenager (Mar 20, 2003)

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has predicted a bright future for Nigerian striker Obafemi Martins, who played a pivotal role in helping the club clinch a place in the last eight of the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Arsenal boss Wenger unbowed by defeat in Spain (Mar 20, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has refused to accept that Champions League defeat could knock his team off course in their bid to win a successive English Premiership. . . . more . . .

Manchester fans protest lunch-time matches (Mar 20, 2003)

Manchester United fans plan to make a mass protest at this weekend's Old Trafford match with Fulham in a bid to end lunchtime kick-offs. . . . more . . .

Kuranyi gets Germany call for European qualifier (Mar 20, 2003)

VfB Stuttgart's Kevin Kuranyi was rewarded for his impressive goal-scoring in this season's Bundesliga with a first cap in Rudi Voller's line-up for Germany's European championship qualifier against Lithuania in Nuremburg on March 29. . . . more . . .

Ferguson rules out mind games (Mar 20, 2003)

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson denied he was playing mind games with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. . . . more . . .

Newcastle boss Robson pins blame on defenders (Mar 20, 2003)

Newcastle manager Bobby Robson said "abysmal" defending was to blame for their 2-0 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Spanish armada sink English Champions League hopes (Mar 20, 2003)

Spain had a red letter night in the Champions League but their ecstasy was English misery as Barcelona and Valencia extinguished Newcastle and Arsenal's hopes of making the last eight. . . . more . . .

Ziege confident of Spurs comeback (Mar 20, 2003)

German full-back Christian Ziege, who feared he might never play again last December, has set his sights on returning to the Tottenham first team before the end of the season. . . . more . . .

Young Magpies want second bite at Champions League cherry (Mar 20, 2003)

Even the experience of what he described as a "very sharp lesson" from Barcelona could not dim Sir Bobby Robson's appetite for another taste of Champions League football. . . . more . . .

Valencia out to spike Arsenal's guns and sneak into last eight (Mar 19, 2003)

Both Arsenal and Valencia clash on Wednesday desperately seeking to land the knockout blow to either's Champions League hopes and also revive their flagging form. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo heads Real into last eight (Mar 19, 2003)

A rare headed goal from Brazilian star Ronaldo saw the reigning champions Real Madrid into the last eight of the Champions League with a hard fought 1-0 victory over Lokomotiv Moscow in their Group C clash. . . . more . . .

Deportivo wipe the smile from Ferguson's face (Mar 19, 2003)

Down-and-out Deportivo La Coruna wiped the smile from Sir Alex Ferguson's face as the Galicians took advantage of Manchester United's complacency to win 2-0 in their Champions League group D encounter. . . . more . . .

Newcastle boss admits magic needed to break Barcelona spell (Mar 19, 2003)

Newcastle manager Bobby Robson admits it will call for a little bit of something special to stop Spanish giants Barcelona's Champions League Cup run. . . . more . . .

Arsenal set to spark new club versus country row (Mar 19, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is ready to spark a new club versus country row by playing Sol Campbell in their vital Champions League clash with Valencia here. . . . more . . .

Spain calls off Argentina match with Australia (Mar 19, 2003)

Australia's friendly international with Argentina in the Canary Islands on April 1 has been called off by the Spanish football federation because of the imminent conflict in Iraq. . . . more . . .

Soccer first casualty in impending Iraq war (Mar 19, 2003)

International soccer became the first casualty in the impending war in Iraq when Australia's friendly international with Argentina was called off. . . . more . . .

Bayern divided on transfer policy (Mar 19, 2003)

Bayern Munich officials are divided on transfer policy for the summer with Franz Beckenbauer, head of the club's non-executive supervisory board, calling for a temporary freeze whereas chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge hopes to land more new talent. . . . more . . .

Reprieved Terry set for England call-up (Mar 19, 2003)

Chelsea defender John Terry, cleared last year of attacking a nightclub bouncer, was set for a call-up to the England squad by manager Sven-Goran Eriksson this weekend. . . . more . . .

Venables gets Kewell boost (Mar 19, 2003)

Leeds manager Terry Venables, under pressure following five defeats in six games, received a triple boost when three of his struggling squad's injury problems receded. . . . more . . .

Romario prepares to leave Qatar (Mar 19, 2003)

Brazil's 1994 World Cup striker Romario, who joined Qatar club Al-Sad last month, said that he was not frightened by the threat of war in the Middle East but was nevertheless preparing to return home. . . . more . . .

Nine-man Bordeaux perform great escape with last gasp draw (Mar 19, 2003)

Bordeaux kept their hopes alive of winning the French title with a injury-time penalty to pull off a 1-1 draw with Strasbourg despite being reduced to nine men. . . . more . . .

Clinical Barca kill off Newcastle (Mar 19, 2003)

Newcastle's European dream was finally shattered as Barcelona marched into the last eight of the Champions League with their proud unbeaten record intact. . . . more . . .

Carew spikes Arsenal's guns again (Mar 19, 2003)

Two goals from Valencia's gangling Norwegian striker John Carew helped the Spaniards to a 2-1 victory over Arsenal in their Champions League group B clash. . . . more . . .

Roma fall short as Ajax advance (Mar 19, 2003)

AS Roma failed in their attempt to make it through to the last eight of the Champions League after being held to a 1-1 draw at home to Ajax. . . . more . . .

Nigerian teenager Martins stars for Inter (Mar 19, 2003)

Inter Milan coach Hector Cuper's conviction that teenage Nigerian Obafemi Martins was man enough to step in for suspended Christian Vieri in this crunch Champions League tie against Bayer Leverkusen was fully vindicated. . . . more . . .

Real need a win to avoid the unthinkable (Mar 18, 2003)

Real Madrid need to beat Lokomotiv Moscow in the Russian capital to be absolutely sure of keeping alive their bid for a fourth European crown in six seasons. . . . more . . .

Nigeria replace injured Aghahowa with Inter youngster (Mar 18, 2003)

Nigeria called up young striker Obafemi Martins from Italian club Inter Milan as replacement for injured Julius Aghahowa for the African Nations Cup qualifier in Malawi later this month, officials said. . . . more . . .

Wolfgang Sidka steps down as Bahrain coach (Mar 18, 2003)

German coach Wolfgang Sidka said he is stepping down as coach of Bahrain on health grounds and will not see through his contract which runs to October. . . . more . . .

Diouf free to play in UEFA Cup final (Mar 18, 2003)

Senegalese World Cup hero El-Hadji Diouf will be able to play in the UEFA Cup final should Liverpool reach it after receiving a two game ban from European football's governing body UEFA. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo heads Real into last eight (Mar 18, 2003)

A rare headed goal from Brazilian star Ronaldo saw the reigning champions Real Madrid into the last eight of the Champions League with a hard fought 1-0 victory over Lokomotiv Moscow in their Group C clash. . . . more . . .

Desailly must wait for France record (Mar 18, 2003)

Chelsea stalwart Marcel Desailly must wait before he can win a record 104th international cap after France coach Jacques Santini left him out of his squad to face Malta and Israel in upcoming European championship qualifiers. . . . more . . .

Juventus edge into to Champions League quarter finals (Mar 18, 2003)

Italian League leaders Juventus comfortably moved into the quarter finals of the Champions League, despite a spirited 2-1 win by Swiss underdogs Basel. . . . more . . .

Dortmund's win in vain as Real snatch last eight place (Mar 18, 2003)

Borussia Dortmund were edged out of the Champions League despite winning 1-0 at Group C winners AC Milan. . . . more . . .

Winning title would be 'greatest' achievement for Fergie (Mar 18, 2003)

Overhauling Arsenal to take the English Premiership crown would be Manchester United's "greatest" ever achievement according to boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who cranked up the mind games against his old rival Arsene Wenger. . . . more . . .

Hothead Bellamy feels 'picked on' (Mar 18, 2003)

Newcastle's Welsh international striker Craig Bellamy said he believes referees give him unfair treatment because of the 23-year-old's hot-head reputation. . . . more . . .

Blatter backs goal-line technology (Mar 18, 2003)

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has revealed he is in favour of using video technology in resolving contentious issues, but insisted deciding whether the ball had crossed the line is the only case in which video evidence would be used by officials. . . . more . . .

Hadji looking for extended Villa stay (Mar 18, 2003)

Aston Villa's Moroccan midfielder Mustapha Hadji said he hopes to extend his contract with the Premiership side so he can help to develop their up and coming stock of young talent. . . . more . . .

Meaningless tie still has significance for Deportivo (Mar 18, 2003)

Deportivo La Coruna's Champions League ambitions for this year may have ended in Turin last week but the Galicians are still attaching importance to their Group D clash with Manchester United on Tuesday. . . . more . . .

We are tougher than two years ago says Wenger (Mar 18, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger warned reporters The Gunners were not going to be cowed into submission a second time in Valencia's intimidating Mestalla stadium. . . . more . . .

Parreira calls in more World Cup players for Portugal friendly (Mar 18, 2003)

Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira made three more World Cup-winning additions to the squad to play a football friendly against Portugal in Porto on March 29. . . . more . . .

Valencia out to spike Arsenal's guns and sneak into last eight (Mar 18, 2003)

Both Arsenal and Valencia clash desperately seeking to land the knockout blow to either's Champions League hopes and also revive their flagging form. . . . more . . .

Injury-stricken Valencia try to look on the bright side (Mar 18, 2003)

Valencia coach Rafa Benitez has called up every one of the 18 players at his disposal for the vital Champions League group B clash with English Premiership leaders Arsenal. . . . more . . .

Deportivo wipe the smile from Ferguson's face (Mar 18, 2003)

Down-and-out Deportivo La Coruna wiped the smile from Sir Alex Ferguson's face as the Galicians took advantage of Manchester United's complacency to win 2-0 in their Champions League group D encounter. . . . more . . .

Brazil set to host 2014 World Cup finals (Mar 17, 2003)

Five-time world champions Brazil are set to host the 2014 World Cup finals after the South American Football Confederation (CSF) unanimously agreed they should be the sole candidate. . . . more . . .

Cuper calls up Crespo for Leverkusen clash (Mar 17, 2003)

Argentina international Hernan Crespo could make his comeback for Inter Milan in Wednesday's crucial Champions League Group A match away to Bayer Leverkusen after being named in Hector Cuper's 20-man squad. . . . more . . .

Reading fail in bid for Di Canio (Mar 17, 2003)

English Premiership strugglers West Ham United have rejected a bid by First Division promotion chasers Reading to take unsettled Paolo di Canio on loan. . . . more . . .

Eriksson denies Ferguson's claims about United talks (Mar 17, 2003)

England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson rejected Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson's claims he had spoken to the Premiership giants about replacing the Scot at the helm. . . . more . . .

Blatter rules out Nigeria co-hosting World Cup (Mar 17, 2003)

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has told Nigeria it has no chance of co-hosting the 2010 World Cup along with four other countries, Cameroon, Ghana, Benin and Togo. . . . more . . .

Zola unsure over Chelsea future (Mar 17, 2003)

Italian star Gianfranco Zola might be near the end of what he calls his wonderful spell with English Premiership side Chelsea. . . . more . . .

Vieira boost for Arsenal (Mar 17, 2003)

Arsenal were given a boost when their French captain Patrick Vieira said he was determined to play against Valencia in a key Champions League final match. . . . more . . .

Desailly faces French guillotine (Mar 17, 2003)

France coach Jacques Santini is poised to axe his captain Marcel Desailly when he names his side for two European Championship qualifying matches in a fortnight. . . . more . . .

Liechtenstein braced for English invasion (Mar 17, 2003)

Liechtenstein authorities revealed tough security measures for their European championship qualifier against England here on March 29. . . . more . . .

Unsettled Parlour seeks Arsenal talks (Mar 17, 2003)

Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour has asked manager Arsene Wenger to tell him where he figures in the Gunners' future. . . . more . . .

Argentina to play Australia in Spain (Mar 17, 2003)

Two-time football world champions Argentina are set to field a full strength squad against Australia in a friendly international confirmed here for the Canary Islands on April 1. . . . more . . .

Diouf dropped for Celtic return (Mar 17, 2003)

LONDON AFP) - Liverpool have dropped Senegalese striker El-Hadji Diouf for Thursday's UEFA Cup quarter-final Anfield return with Celtic. . . . more . . .

Dugarry provoked in spitting incident: Bruce (Mar 17, 2003)

Birmingham coach Steve Bruce claimed that his French World Cup winner Christophe Dugarry was provoked into spitting at Aston Villa midfielder Joey Gudjonsson, an incident which has the veteran forward facing a three-match ban. . . . more . . .

Young star Fletcher ready for Premiership debut says Fergie (Mar 16, 2003)

Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson is ready to give young blood Darren Fletcher his first taste of Premiership action. . . . more . . .

Fowler's maiden goal gives 10-man City welcome win (Mar 16, 2003)

Former England striker Robbie Fowler's first goal for Manchester City was enough to down Premiership strugglers Birmingham City 1-0. . . . more . . .

Helguera keeps real in pole position (Mar 16, 2003)

A last-minute goal from Ivan Helguera, one of his side's few unsung names, kept Real Madrid in pole position in the Spanish league as he secured a 1-0 win at Villarreal. . . . more . . .

Ferguson and Robson see title chance as Blackburn spike Gunners (Mar 16, 2003)

Blackburn completed their own double over double-winners Arsenal to blow the Premiership title race wide open, as Manchester United coach Alex Ferguson and Newcastle boss Bobby Robson saw their sides win away to close the gap. . . . more . . .

Valencia slump as Helguera keeps Real in pole position (Mar 16, 2003)

A good week for Real Madrid ended with a 1-0 away defeat for reigning champions Valencia, leaving the 'meringues' heading for the title as well as the Champions League quarter-finals. . . . more . . .

Gerrard sparks Liverpool as Zola hands Chelsea vital win (Mar 16, 2003)

Liverpool and Chelsea bolstered their push for a valuable Champions League place with crucial wins over Tottenham Hotspur and relegation-threatened West Bromwich Albion. . . . more . . .

Inter keep the heat on Juve as Roma flop (Mar 16, 2003)

Inter Milan kept the heat on Italian league leaders Juventus, thrashing strugglers Como 4-0 at the San Siro to trim the deficit to three points. . . . more . . .

Magpies can fly back into title race: Robson (Mar 16, 2003)

Newcastle boss Sir Bobby Robson is refusing to let go of his dream of leading his high-flying Magpies to Premiership glory. . . . more . . .

Nedved and Trezeguet lift Juve (Mar 16, 2003)

Juventus maintained their Italian title challenge as a double second-half strike from Czech playmaker Pavel Nedved and a clincher from predatory Frenchman David Trezeguet proved too strong in a 3-0 win at home to Modena. . . . more . . .

Beckham keeps heat on Arsenal (Mar 16, 2003)

David Beckham ensured Manchester United kept the pressure on Premiership leaders Arsenal with the only goal in a hard-fought win over Aston Villa. . . . more . . .

Shearer hints at possible England return (Mar 16, 2003)

Newcastle striker Alan Shearer dropped a gentle hint that the time might be ripe for him to come out of international retirement and help England qualify for Euro 2004. . . . more . . .

Shearer rules out possible England return (Mar 16, 2003)

Newcastle striker Alan Shearer ruled out a return to the England team after earlier saying that could still "do a job" for his country. . . . more . . .

Ferguson should take care of his own team says Pires (Mar 15, 2003)

Alex Ferguson would be better off handling his Manchester United side instead of calling Arsenal arrogant said French international midfielder Robert Pires. . . . more . . .

Brazilian striker Edilson sacked by J-League club after no-show (Mar 15, 2003)

Brazilian striker Edilson has been fired by Japanese club Kashiwa Reysol after the World Cup star failed to show up for training ahead of the new J-League season. . . . more . . .

Diouf seeks to make amends with spitting victim (Mar 15, 2003)

Liverpool striker El Hadji Diouf has moved to make amends for spitting on a Celtic supporter by inviting his victim to the second leg of the two club's UEFA Cup 'Battle of Britain'. . . . more . . .

Beckham keeps heat on Arsenal (Mar 15, 2003)

David Beckham ensured Manchester United kept the pressure on Premiership leaders Arsenal with the only goal in a hard-fought win over Aston Villa. . . . more . . .

Spurs still Europe bound, says Hoddle (Mar 15, 2003)

Tottenham Hotspur manager Glenn Hoddle insists his side can qualify for Europe despite a testy week at White Hart Lane with talk of divisions in the dressing-room. . . . more . . .

Bayern bludgeon Bochum as Takahara cheers Hamburg (Mar 15, 2003)

Bayern Munich are sticking to the fast lane as they roar towards an 18th German league title after swatting VfL Bochum 4-1 away to maintain their 13-point lead over reigning champions Borussia Dortmund. . . . more . . .

Leeds in trouble despite Viduka double (Mar 15, 2003)

A double strike from Australian international Mark Viduka was not enough to save crisis club Leeds United as they went down 3-2 to Middlesbrough and leave them with relegation still hanging over their heads. . . . more . . .

Shearer show puts Newcastle back in Premiership hunt (Mar 15, 2003)

Newcastle fired themselves right back into the Premiership title race with a 2-0 victory at Charlton. . . . more . . .

Desailly back to lift Chelsea blues (Mar 15, 2003)

Chelsea captain Marcel Desailly is determined to help get the club's Champions League campaign back on track when he returns from injury against relegation-threatened West Brom. . . . more . . .

United counting on Euro pressure to get to Gunners (Mar 15, 2003)

Manchester United are praying the hangover from Arsenal's gruelling Champions League campaign will give them the chance to pile on the pressure on the Gunners in the Premiership title race. . . . more . . .

Gunners are the tops for Souness (Mar 15, 2003)

Blackburn boss Graeme Souness lauded Arsenal as the top side in the land, saying the Gunners have overtaken Manchester United as the dominant force in the country. . . . more . . .

Blackburn blow title race wide open (Mar 15, 2003)

Blackburn completed their own double over double-winners Arsenal to blow the Premiership title race wide open. . . . more . . .

McCarthy will revive Sunderland says former boss (Mar 15, 2003)

Mick McCarthy will do a great job at Sunderland said their former manager Peter Reid. . . . more . . .

French star Dugarry faces spitting rap (Mar 14, 2003)

Football Association officials said Birmingham's French star Christophe Dugarry would be charged next week for spitting in last week's match against Aston Villa. . . . more . . .

Seaman puts 1,000th game on hold (Mar 14, 2003)

Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman has put his 1,000th senior appearance on hold, forcing Arsene Wenger into a major goalkeeping gamble as he balances European and Premiership ambitions this weekend. . . . more . . .

Spitting skirmish mars Battle of Britain (Mar 14, 2003)

Swedish striker Henrik Larsson celebrated his return to the Celtic team with his 35th goal of the season less than two minutes into his 36th match. . . . more . . .

French captain Desailly blasts wayward Chelsea (Mar 14, 2003)

France captain Marcel Desailly says Chelsea will never win the English Premiership until their international stars learn how to perform consistently. . . . more . . .

Lazio left to rue missed chances (Mar 14, 2003)

Simone Inzaghi's goal 11 minutes into the second-half gave Lazio a slender 1-0 win over Turkish side Besiktas in their UEFA Cup quarter-final, first leg here at the Olympic stadium. . . . more . . .

Shearer sees Charlton trip as top priority (Mar 14, 2003)

Newcastle striker Alan Shearer says Saturday's trip to Charlton is an even bigger match than Tuesday's Champions League draw at Inter Milan as the Magpies set about qualifying for next year's competition. . . . more . . .

Heskey the killjoy at Larsson comeback party (Mar 14, 2003)

Swedish striker Henrik Larsson celebrated his return to the Celtic team with his 35th goal of the season less than two minutes into his 36th match. . . . more . . .

Diouf facing charges after spitting at fan (Mar 14, 2003)

African player of the year El Hadji Diouf faces a hefty fine from Liverpool and could face criminal charges after spitting at a fan in Celtic's UEFA Cup draw with Liverpool. . . . more . . .

Diouf faces police probe into spitting row (Mar 14, 2003)

African player of the year El Hadji Diouf was to be questioned by police for allegedly spitting at a fan in Liverpool's UEFA Cup draw with Celtic. . . . more . . .

Cash-strapped Monaco dismiss relegation threat (Mar 14, 2003)

Monaco football club president Jean-Louis Campora dismissed threats of the French first division side being relegated because of its 53 million euro (dollar) debts. . . . more . . .

Takahara named Japan player of the year (Mar 14, 2003)

Japan international Naohiro Takahara received a crumb of comfort for missing out on last year's World Cup after being named 2002 player of the year. . . . more . . .

Gunners are the tops for Souness (Mar 14, 2003)

Blackburn boss Graeme Souness lauded Arsenal as the top side in the land, saying the Gunners have overtaken Manchester United as the dominant force in the country. . . . more . . .

Scolari and Figo clash over use of naturalised player for Portugal (Mar 14, 2003)

Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has clashed publicly with superstar Luis Figo over a call-up for a recently naturalised Brazilian-born player on the national squad for the Euro 2004 championship. . . . more . . .

Aussie striker Sterjovski gives Lille hope (Mar 14, 2003)

A penalty from Australian forward Mile Sterjovski, coupled with an earlier effort from Christophe Landrin, gave Lille a 2-0 win over fellow French strugglers Montpellier to boost his club's hopes of avoiding relegation. . . . more . . .

Black day for Japanese clubs as they exit Asian Champions League (Mar 13, 2003)

The J-League will not have a representative in the AFC Champions League semi-finals after both Shimizu S-Pulse and Kashima Antlers suffered defeats. . . . more . . .

Keegan offers cash carrot in bid to offload spare players (Mar 13, 2003)

Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan has offered a cash incentive to clubs in the First Division who are interested in taking any of his spare players on loan. . . . more . . .

Heskey the killjoy at Larsson comeback party (Mar 13, 2003)

Swedish striker Henrik Larsson celebrated his return to the Celtic team with his 35th goal of the season less than two minutes into his 36th match. . . . more . . .

Fernandez to quit at PSG (Mar 13, 2003)

Paris St Germain manager Luis Fernandez said he would walk away from the club at the end of the season. . . . more . . .

Blatter slams lazy Leverkusen (Mar 13, 2003)

FIFA President Sepp Blatter criticised the lacklustre approach of Bayer Leverkusen in their 2-0 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Kewell looks to stay at Leeds (Mar 13, 2003)

Australian star Harry Kewell was reported to be ready to open talks with Leeds United next week to prolong his contract with the English Premiership side. . . . more . . .

Birmingham boss pleased with Dugarry (Mar 13, 2003)

Birmingham manager Steve Bruce says he is not worried about Christophe Dugarry's lack of goals and is determined to make his move from Bordeaux permanent. . . . more . . .

Ferguson takes blame for Basel draw (Mar 13, 2003)

Alex Ferguson has blamed himself for Manchester United struggling to draw 1-1 with Swiss side Basel in the Champions' League. . . . more . . .

Victoria Beckham 'keen' on Italy move (Mar 13, 2003)

A move to Italy could become a real possibility for Manchester United and England star David Beckham as his wife wants to buy a house near Lake Como, according to a report. . . . more . . .

UEFA investigates racism accusations against Vieri (Mar 13, 2003)

UEFA said it had opened an investigation after Newcastle United complained about racist comments allegedly made by Inter Milan striker Christian Vieri to one of its players following the clubs' 2-2 Champions League draw. . . . more . . .

United to avoid rap on weakened team (Mar 13, 2003)

Manchester United will avoid a UEFA rap on fielding a weakened team in Wednesday's Champions League draw at Old Trafford with Basle, European football's governing body said. . . . more . . .

Inter Milan star Vieri denies racist charge (Mar 13, 2003)

Inter Milan striker Christian Vieri has denied making racist remarks at Newcastle's Lomana LuaLua in Tuesday night's 2-2 Champions League draw. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo set to divorce Ronaldinha: report (Mar 13, 2003)

World footballer of the Year Ronaldo is set to divorce his wife Milene Domingues, the Jornal do Brasil reported. . . . more . . .

Packed house as Pakhtakor make semis (Mar 13, 2003)

The Pakhtakor Stadium in Tashkent was vibrating as 55,000 fans celebrated Uzbek outfit Pakhtakor's 3-0 win over Iraq's Al Talaba which brought a place in the semi-finals of the AFC Champions League. . . . more . . .

Hamann backs Reds in Battle of Britain (Mar 13, 2003)

Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has backed his side to keep their cool in the heat of the 'Battle of Britain' UEFA Cup clash with Celtic. . . . more . . .

Raul double sends Real to brink of last eight (Mar 13, 2003)

Goldenboy Raul struck two priceless goals in a 3-1 win over AC Milan to take reigning champions Real Madrid to the brink of the Champions League quarter finals. . . . more . . .

United fail to roll Swiss over (Mar 13, 2003)

FC Basel denied Manchester United a club record sixth straight Champions League win but their own dream of a quarter-final place looks to have died. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo in for Real test against Milan (Mar 13, 2003)

Real Madrid have been given a boost ahead of their crucial Champions League match against visitors AC Milan with the news that Brazilian superstar Ronaldo is fit to play. . . . more . . .

Keown set to face UEFA probe over Totti red card (Mar 13, 2003)

Arsenal defender Martin Keown was expected to face a UEFA probe for getting Roma captain Francesco Totti sent off in Tuesday night's Champions League clash. . . . more . . .

German general backs Reds in Battle of Britain (Mar 13, 2003)

Liverpool's midfield general Dietmar Hamann has backed his side to keep their cool in the heat of the 'Battle of Britain' UEFA Cup clash with Celtic. . . . more . . .

Tudor's last-gasp winner seals last eight spot for Juve (Mar 13, 2003)

Substitute Igor Tudor scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to seal a 3-2 win for Juventus over Deportivo La Coruna to take the Italians through to the last eight of the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Fernandez to quit at PSG (Mar 12, 2003)

Paris St Germain manager Luis Fernandez said he would walk away from the club at the end of the season. . . . more . . .

UEFA investigates racism accusations against Vieri (Mar 12, 2003)

UEFA said it had opened an investigation after Newcastle United complained about racist comments allegedly made by Inter Milan striker Christian Vieri to one of its players following the clubs' 2-2 Champions League draw. . . . more . . .

Blatter slams lazy Leverkusen (Mar 12, 2003)

FIFA President Sepp Blatter criticised the lacklustre approach of Bayer Leverkusen in their 2-0 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Capello fury over Totti red card (Mar 12, 2003)

The Oscars are still two weeks away but Roma coach Fabio Capello had no doubts about the best piece of acting he has seen in the last year. . . . more . . .

Rangers insist Sunderland stump up Flo cash (Mar 12, 2003)

Rangers have turned down an offer of players from Sunderland in lieu of three million pounds outstanding on the transfer of Norwegian striker Tore Andre Flo. . . . more . . .

AC Milan promise to deliver as Real sweat over Ronaldo's fitness (Mar 12, 2003)

Real Madrid have been given fair warning - AC Milan will show them the utmost respect by aiming to win their Champions League quarter-final tie at the Bernabeu stadium. . . . more . . .

Zico to summon struggling Portsmouth goalkeeper for football friendlies (Mar 12, 2003)

Japan coach Zico plans to summon struggling Portsmouth goalkeeper Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi for friendly matches in the United States later this month, the Brazilian football legend said. . . . more . . .

Munich 1860 sack coach (Mar 12, 2003)

Mid-table Bundesliga outfit Munich 1860 sacked their coach Peter Pacult and replaced him with former Hertha Berlin caretaker boss Falko Goetz. . . . more . . .

Keown set to face UEFA probe over Totti red card (Mar 12, 2003)

Arsenal defender Martin Keown was expected to face a UEFA probe for getting Roma captain Francesco Totti sent off in Tuesday night's Champions League clash. . . . more . . .

McCarthy feels privileged to take Sunderland job (Mar 12, 2003)

Former Ireland coach Mick McCarthy returned to club football after a six year hiatus here when he was named manager of relegation-threatened Premiership outfit Sunderland. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo in for Real test against Milan (Mar 12, 2003)

Real Madrid have been given a boost ahead of their crucial Champions League match against visitors AC Milan with the news that Brazilian superstar Ronaldo is fit to play. . . . more . . .

Shearer gives Newcastle hope but Arsenal are frustrated (Mar 12, 2003)

Veteran striker Alan Shearer struck both his side's goals in a 2-2 draw with Inter Milan to give Newcastle a fighting chance of qualifying for the quarter-finals of the Champions League. . . . more . . .

FIFA boss Blatter against 36-team World Cup (Mar 12, 2003)

FIFA president Sepp Blatter came out against plans to increase the number of teams at the 2006 World Cup from 32 to 36. . . . more . . .

Cuper unfazed by Inter's striker crisis (Mar 12, 2003)

Inter Milan coach Hector Cuper is confident his side can win their final second phase match to reach the last eight of the Champions League, despite a shortage of strike power at the Italian club. . . . more . . .

Dortmund face Milan showdown after thrashing Lokomotiv (Mar 12, 2003)

Borussia Dortmund thrashed Lokomotiv Moscow 3-0 but must now beat AC Milan at the San Siro next week to stand a chance of reaching the Champions League quarter-finals. . . . more . . .

Juventus fans salute cancer victim Molina (Mar 12, 2003)

Juventus fans saluted Deportivo La Coruna goalkeeper Francisco Molina for winning his battle against testicular cancer, ahead of the Champions League clash between the two teams here. . . . more . . .

Black day for Japanese clubs as they exit Asian Champions League (Mar 12, 2003)

The J-League will not have a representative in the AFC Champions League semi-finals after both Shimizu S-Pulse and Kashima Antlers suffered defeats. . . . more . . .

Ajax kids make Koeman proud with Valencia draw (Mar 12, 2003)

Ajax coach Ronald Koeman said his young side deserved to progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League after holding Valencia to a 1-1 draw in a spectacular Group B second phase game. . . . more . . .

Raul double sends Real to brink of last eight (Mar 12, 2003)

Goldenboy Raul struck two priceless goals in a 3-1 win over AC Milan to take reigning champions Real Madrid to the brink of the Champions League quarter finals. . . . more . . .

United fail to roll Swiss over (Mar 12, 2003)

FC Basel denied Manchester United a club record sixth straight Champions League win but their own dream of a quarter-final place looks to have died. . . . more . . .

Tudor's last-gasp winner seals last eight spot for Juve (Mar 12, 2003)

Substitute Igor Tudor scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to seal a 3-2 win for Juventus over Deportivo La Coruna to take the Italians through to the last eight of the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Celtic get Larsson boost for Liverpool clash (Mar 11, 2003)

Celtic's Swedish striker Henrik Larsson is fit to face Liverpool in Thursday's UEFA Cup tie but French winger Didier Agathe has been ruled out. . . . more . . .

Henry won't be intimidated (Mar 11, 2003)

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry says he will not let fans intimidate him following an incident at Highbury when he was hit by a number of missiles. . . . more . . .

All to play for as Valencia hold Ajax (Mar 11, 2003)

Valencia kept their Champions League hopes alive by holding Dutch outfit Ajax to a 1-1 draw in a spectacular Group B second phase match here. . . . more . . .

Mahmoud at the double as Iraqi champions humble Turkmen aces (Mar 11, 2003)

A double from Iraqi Olympic international striker Younes Mahmoud inspired Iraqi champions Al Talaba to a 3-0 victory over Turkmen outfit Nisa in their AFC Champions League Group D clash. . . . more . . .

United set sights on French talent stream (Mar 11, 2003)

Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson has been checking on four French-based stars who could become summer targets for the Old Trafford giants, including exciting Auxerre striker Djibril Cisse. . . . more . . .

Pires is player of the month (Mar 11, 2003)

Arsenal's French midfielder Robert Pires has been named English Premiership player of the month for February. . . . more . . .

Trucco quits Bolivia job after two weeks (Mar 11, 2003)

Former Bolivian international goalkeeper Carlos Trucco has quit as Bolivia coach just two weeks after being appointed, the Bolivian Football Federation (FBF) announced. . . . more . . .

Larsson targets UEFA Cup return (Mar 11, 2003)

Swedish striker Henrik Larsson has told Celtic manager Martin O'Neill he is desperate to face Liverpool in the UEFA Cup clash. . . . more . . .

Cordoba rescues Inter to deny evergreen Shearer (Mar 11, 2003)

Injury-hit Inter Milan blew the chance of qualifying for the last eight of the Champions League after being held to a 2-2 draw by Newcastle United in a thrilling tie at the San Siro. . . . more . . .

Arsenal pay the price of profligacy (Mar 11, 2003)

Arsenal's Champions League ambitions were dealt a potentially deadly blow as ten-man Roma battled back from a goal down to keep their own hopes of a place in the quarter-final alive. . . . more . . .

Hierro to extend stay at Real Madrid (Mar 11, 2003)

Real Madrid captain Fernando Hierro, whose contract expires in June, will extend his deal with the Spanish league leaders for a further two years, it was reported. . . . more . . .

Liverpool boss Houllier fears Parkhead trial (Mar 11, 2003)

Gerard Houllier fears a daunting test in Thursday's UEFA Cup quarter-final first leg when Liverpool face a Celtic side that has not lost at home for 48 matches. . . . more . . .

Newcastle enter the San Siro for crucial Champions League clash (Mar 11, 2003)

It's Christian Vieri against Alan Shearer as Newcastle seek to complete their Houdini escape act in the Champions League against Inter Milan. . . . more . . .

Barcelona stroll into quarter-finals (Mar 11, 2003)

Barcelona cruised into the quarter-finals of the Champions League after preserving their unbeaten record in this year's competition with a 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen. . . . more . . .

Former Irish boss McCarthy tipped to take over at Sunderland (Mar 11, 2003)

Former Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy was tipped to take over as manager of Sunderland after the English Premiership strugglers sacked Howard Wilkinson. . . . more . . .

Bye bye Bjornebye as Norwegian defender hangs up boots (Mar 11, 2003)

Former Norwegian international defender Stig Inge Bjornebye announced his retirement on medical advice regarding the eye socket he fractured in April 2002 while training with his Premiership club Blackburn Rovers. . . . more . . .

Arsenal's Campbell unlikely for Roma Cup clash (Mar 11, 2003)

England defender Sol Campbell was unlikely to turn out for Arsenal's Champions League clash with Roma at Highbury but French striker Thierry Henry is fit after recovering from a calf injury. . . . more . . .

Kewell and Viduka set to desert Leeds sinking ship (Mar 11, 2003)

Australian stars Mark Viduka and Harry Kewell look set to be the next players to leave cash-strapped Leeds. . . . more . . .

Veron refuses to quit at Man United (Mar 11, 2003)

Juan Sebastian Veron says he aims to stay at Manchester United until his five-year contract runs out in 2006. . . . more . . .

Bakke pleads not guilty to drink-driving (Mar 11, 2003)

Leeds United's Norwegian international midfielder Eirik Bakke denied charges of drink-driving, driving without a licence and without insurance when he appeared in court. . . . more . . .

Chelsea chairman defends Cup tradition (Mar 11, 2003)

Chelsea supremo Ken Bates says Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger's proposal to ditch FA Cup replays would hurt small clubs. . . . more . . .

Lama in spitting distance of coming out of retirement (Mar 11, 2003)

Former French international goalkeeper Bernard Lama could be set to make a sensational return between the posts should his trial with English Premiership strugglers Birmingham City prove a success. . . . more . . .

Wembley home touted for Spurs and Arsenal (Mar 11, 2003)

London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham might be tempted to share the new Wembley stadium, English sports supremo Patrick Carter revealed. . . . more . . .

Overloaded Gunners campaign against FA Cup replays (Mar 10, 2003)

FA Cup replays should become a thing of the past said Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. . . . more . . .

Rangers supremo determined to rid club of racist fans (Mar 10, 2003)

There is no place for racist fans at Scottish giants Rangers, declared their chairman John McClelland. . . . more . . .

Roberto Carlos could head up Fergie's wish list (Mar 10, 2003)

Brazil's World Cup winning fullback Roberto Carlos could be the subject of a bidding duel between Arsenal and Manchester United it was reported. . . . more . . .

Bellamy ordered to keep his cool by Robson (Mar 10, 2003)

Fiery Welsh striker Craig Bellamy has been told by his Newcastle manager Bobby Robson not to react to any provocation from Inter Milan players in their crucial Champions League Group A clash at the San Siro on Tuesday. . . . more . . .

Sunderland sack Wilkinson (Mar 10, 2003)

English Premiership strugglers Sunderland sacked manager Howard Wilkinson after his 20-game reign produced just two league victories. . . . more . . .

Henry fit but injury woes continue for Gunners (Mar 10, 2003)

French striker Thierry Henry is set for Arsenal's Champions League clash with Roma at Highbury after recovering from a calf injury. . . . more . . .

Nigeria drop Kanu from crunch Malawi tie (Mar 10, 2003)

Nigeria have left Arsenal forward Nwankwo Kanu out of the squad for their crucial African Nations Cup clash against Malawi later this month. . . . more . . .

Ferguson says Keane would be brilliant club manager (Mar 10, 2003)

Alex Ferguson gave Roy Keane a vote of confidence in his wish to one day become a club manager. . . . more . . .

Blades to clash with London giants (Mar 10, 2003)

Giant-killers Sheffield United will face holders Arsenal or Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals after the draw was made here. . . . more . . .

Clarets Cup hopes shattered by Glass (Mar 09, 2003)

A brilliant free-kick by Stephen Glass rounded off a 2-0 victory for Watford here over First Division rivals Burnley to reach the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in 16 years. . . . more . . .

FA want full force of law for Highbury coin-thrower (Mar 09, 2003)

The Football Association has promised to ensure the individual responsible for throwing a coin which hit Arsenal striker Thierry Henry during Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final against Chelsea at Highbury will be prosecuted. . . . more . . .

Kabba's late birthday present puts Leeds to the sword (Mar 09, 2003)

A goal by Steve Kabba handed Sheffield United a place in the FA Cup semi-finals here as they beat Leeds United 1-0 and left Terry Venables' season in tatters. . . . more . . .

Trezeguet on target as Juve move clear (Mar 09, 2003)

Reigning champions Juventus opened up a three point lead at the top of Italy's Serie A on Sunday after ending Udinese's unbeaten home record with a 1-0 win at the Friuli stadium. . . . more . . .

Liverpool find Premiership form again with Bolton win (Mar 08, 2003)

Liverpool followed up last week's League Cup success with a welcome return to winning ways in the Premiership, defeating strugglers Bolton 2-0 at Anfield. . . . more . . .

Hartson in right place as Celtic zero in on Rangers (Mar 08, 2003)

Celtic kept alive their hopes of retaining the Scottish Premiership title with a battling 1-0 win over arch-rivals Rangers at Parkhead to inflict the first defeat in seven Old Firm matches for the visitors manager Alex McLeish. . . . more . . .

Monaco slip up as Lyon gain ground (Mar 08, 2003)

Monaco came up short against Bordeaux, their 1-0 home defeat opening the door for Marseille to take control when they play their arch-rivals Paris St Germain on Sunday. . . . more . . .

Recoba's double lifts Inter (Mar 08, 2003)

Inter Milan went joint top of Italy's Serie A after winning 2-1 at 10-man Bologna. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid stay on top in Spain, Deportivo second (Mar 08, 2003)

Real Madrid gave notice that now they are on top of the Spanish first division they intend to stay there, with a convincing 4-1 victory over Racing Santander. . . . more . . .

Ferguson to give youth a chance in Champions League (Mar 08, 2003)

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson could give some of his young players a Champions League baptism now the side are safely through to the quarter finals. . . . more . . .

Numan knock a setback for Rangers' Cup final plans (Mar 08, 2003)

Double-chasing Rangers have suffered a setback ahead of next week's Scottish Cup final at Hampden against arch city rivals Celtic with the news that Dutch defender Arthur Numan is a major injury doubt. . . . more . . .

Chelsea snatch late draw with Arsenal to stay in FA Cup (Mar 08, 2003)

Frank Lampard bundled in a late equaliser for Chelsea to take Arsenal to an FA Cup quarter-final replay in a thriller at Highbury. . . . more . . .

Luck is on our side in FA Cup: Leeds' Gray (Mar 08, 2003)

Leeds could be on their way to FA Cup success this year, such has been their luck in the famous tournament so far, assistant manager Eddie Gray believes. . . . more . . .

Bayern lead by 13 after Dortmund crash to Monchengladbach (Mar 08, 2003)

Bayern Munich stretched their lead in the Bundesliga to 13 points with ten matches left to play when they beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 while closest rivals Borussia Dortmund were beaten by Borussia Monchengladbach. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo vows to win over sceptical fans (Mar 07, 2003)

Ronaldo took a swipe at the Spanish press and vowed to conquer the hearts of "demanding" fans at Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium. . . . more . . .

Viduka warns Gunners of last-minute complacency (Mar 07, 2003)

Leeds' Australian forward Mark Viduka has advised leaders Arsenal not to take their foot off the English Premirship pedal - or Manchester United could sneak in at the last minute to spoil the party. . . . more . . .

Gio sets sights on final return (Mar 07, 2003)

A career-threatening knee injury robbed Giovanni van Bronckhorst of the chance to play in last year's FA Cup final. . . . more . . .

Bellamy may face FA charge (Mar 07, 2003)

Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy could face further disciplinary action after being reported over using foul and abusive language during his side's 1-0 English Premiership defeat at Middlesbrough. . . . more . . .

2014 World Cup to take place in South America: FIFA (Mar 07, 2003)

The 2014 World Cup will be held in South America, world soccer governing body FIFA's executive committee ruled. . . . more . . .

Wenger unmoved by Ferguson jibe (Mar 06, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson will not shut him up. . . . more . . .

Sick Totti could miss Rome derby (Mar 06, 2003)

AS Roma captain Francesco Totti could miss this weekend's derby match against Lazio after waking up with a fever. . . . more . . .

Lazio-Besiktas UEFA Cup tie switched (Mar 06, 2003)

Lazio will play the first leg of their UEFA Cup quarter-final against Turkish side Besiktas at home rather than in Istanbul after the match venues were reversed by UEFA. . . . more . . .

Savage gets death threats after Dublin head-butt (Mar 06, 2003)

Birmingham midfielder Robbie Savage has been bombarded by death threats on his own website over his role in this week's explosive derby clash with Aston Villa. . . . more . . .

Spartak strike gold with Russian oil giants (Mar 06, 2003)

One of Russia's biggest oil companies, LUKoil, announced its decision to continue sponsoring Spartak Moscow, the winners of nine national titles in the post-Soviet era. . . . more . . .

Samuel keen to extend Roma stay (Mar 06, 2003)

AS Roma's Argentine defender Walter Samuel said he was hopeful of extending his contract with the Serie A club. . . . more . . .

Karembeu gets sporting break from judge (Mar 06, 2003)

A Greek judge saved Olympiakos' French World Cup winner Christian Karembeu from further punishment over the midfielder's attack on an opposing player last month. . . . more . . .

Possible war delays World Youth Championship (Mar 06, 2003)

The threat of war against Iraq prompted FIFA to postpone the World Youth championships due to be held in the United Arab Emirates from March 25 to April 16. . . . more . . .

Viduka warns Gunners of last-minute complacency (Mar 06, 2003)

Leeds' Australian forward Mark Viduka has advised leaders Arsenal not to take their foot off the English Premiership pedal - or Manchester United could sneak in at the last minute to spoil the party. . . . more . . .

United lose Keane as Silvestre keeps title challenge alive (Mar 06, 2003)

Manchester United's joy at salvaging their title challenge with a late winner against Leeds was tempered by the loss of captain Roy Keane with a hamstring injury. . . . more . . .

Maradona junior set for Scotland (Mar 06, 2003)

Argentie soccer superstar Diego Maradona's son could be set to play for Scottish First Division side Clyde. . . . more . . .

Muzzy staying put as Foxes target Premiership return (Mar 06, 2003)

Turkey international midfielder Muzzy Izzet has formally withdrawn a transfer request after helping Leicester City to the brink of an immediate return to the Premiership. . . . more . . .

Arsenal boss Wenger unmoved by Ferguson jibe (Mar 06, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson will not shut him up. . . . more . . .

United injury toll takes in Keane, Silvestre and Veron (Mar 06, 2003)

Manchester United kept their title hopes alive by beating Leeds 2-1 but now face three weeks without captain Roy Keane, midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron and defender Mikael Silvestre. . . . more . . .

Shearer throws in the towel after Boro shock (Mar 06, 2003)

Newcastle captain Alan Shearer admitted his side's hopes of forcing their way into the Premiership title race had disappeared after a 1-0 defeat by northeast rivals Middlesbrough. . . . more . . .

Nedved blow for Juventus (Mar 06, 2003)

Juventus' Czech midfielder Pavel Nedved has been ruled out of this weekend's league match at Udinese after taking a blow to the chest, the Serie A club confirmed. . . . more . . .

Bayern give Leverkusen the Elber in Cup (Mar 05, 2003)

Bayer Leverkusen's final hope of rescuing a desperate season ended in misery as Bayern Munich beat them 3-1 to progress to the German Cup final and maintain their unbeaten run which began four months ago. . . . more . . .

Crespo on the mend (Mar 05, 2003)

Inter Milan's Argentine striker Hernan Crespo has returned to full training after recovering from a right thigh strain and could be back in action in two weeks' time. . . . more . . .

Manchester United skipper Keane to follow Fergie (Mar 05, 2003)

Manchester United captain Roy Keane has set his sights on becoming the next Old Trafford manager. . . . more . . .

City in turmoil as chairman quit (Mar 05, 2003)

Manchester City were plunged into boardroom turmoil when chairman David Bernstein, a key figure in the club's recent revival, quit his post. . . . more . . .

Vaesen out for rest of year (Mar 05, 2003)

Birmingham City's fight against relegation suffered a setback when it was confirmed that goalkeeper Nico Vaesen had snapped the cruciate ligament in his right knee. . . . more . . .

Spurs agree to sign Chinese midfielder Qu Bo (Mar 05, 2003)

Chinese international midfielder Qu Bo has agreed to join Tottenham at the start of next season, the English Premiership club announced. . . . more . . .

Real president Perez defends under-fire Ronaldo (Mar 05, 2003)

Brazil's World Cup final scoring hero Ronaldo, often jeered at by Real Madrid supporters during matches, was defended by club president Florentino Perez. . . . more . . .

Boro deal hammer blow to Magpies title challenge (Mar 05, 2003)

Newcastle's hopes of forcing their way into the Premiership title race were dealt a hammer blow by northeast rivals Middlesbrough here as they went down to a 1-0 defeat. . . . more . . .

FA Cup, Premiership trophy make first US tour (Mar 05, 2003)

English football's most prized possessions, the FA Cup amd Premiership Trophy, are making their first tour of the United States this week in Southern California. . . . more . . .

Man United skipper Keane to follow Fergie (Mar 05, 2003)

Manchester United captain Roy Keane has set his sights on becoming the next Old Trafford manager. . . . more . . .

Venables tells United to concentrate on Europe (Mar 05, 2003)

Leeds boss Terry Venables has told Manchester United counterpart Alex Ferguson to forget hopes of overhauling Arsenal for the Premiership title. . . . more . . .

Liverpool lose Henchoz and Heskey (Mar 05, 2003)

Liverpool suffered a double blow when central defender Stephane Henchoz and striker Emile Heskey were ruled out of Gerard Houllier's immediate plans with injury. . . . more . . .

Old Firm battle could seal the title (Mar 05, 2003)

Rangers midfielder Ronald de Boer is convinced the club will take the Scottish Premier League title if they can defeat Celtic on Saturday. . . . more . . .

Racism is an evil and a poison: UEFA (Mar 05, 2003)

UEFA chief executive Gerhard Aigner, addressing the Unite Against Racism conference, said that racism was an evil and a poison and should be eradicated from football. . . . more . . .

Silvestre keeps United title challenge alive (Mar 05, 2003)

The quick-thinking of David Beckham and a rare goal from French defender Mikael Silvestre kept Manchester United's title challenge alive with victory over Leeds. . . . more . . .

FIFA set to delay junior World Cup over Iraq war fears (Mar 05, 2003)

International football federation president Sepp Blatter was set to postpone the Under-20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates because of the possibility of war in Iraq. . . . more . . .

Police drop snowball case against Schwarz (Mar 05, 2003)

English police are to take no action against former Swedish international Stefan Schwarz following an alleged altercation with two youths who threw snowballs at his car. . . . more . . .

Del Piero in line for Deportivo clash (Mar 05, 2003)

Juventus striker Alessandro Del Piero has returned to training and could play in next week's crunch Champions League clash against Deportivo La Coruna. . . . more . . .

England to face Serbia and Montenegro in summer friendly (Mar 05, 2003)

England will play an international friendly against Serbia and Montenegro at Leicester City's Walkers Stadium on June 3, the Football Association revealed. . . . more . . .

Fergie lashes out at "bragging" Arsenal (Mar 05, 2003)

Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson has launched a scathing broadside against what he described as the "bragging" of Premiership leaders Arsenal. . . . more . . .

Marcelinho sorry after leading Hertha a merry dance (Mar 05, 2003)

Hertha Berlin's Brazilian midfielder Marcelinho has apologised after staying out all night Sunday despite his club suffering two successive defeats. . . . more . . .

Lazio axe Poles to book quarter-final place (Mar 05, 2003)

Lazio booked their place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup after beating Wisla Krakow 2-1 here in their rescheduled fourth round, second leg tie. . . . more . . .

Marseille cone out on top in battle of French giants (Mar 05, 2003)

Revived French giants Marseille ended the former dominant force in French football St Etienne's League Cup run, beating them 2-0 to earn a place in the semi-finals. . . . more . . .

Shevchenko boost for Milan (Mar 05, 2003)

AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko has recovered from a thigh strain and could play a part in the home match against Chievo at the weekend, according to the club's official website. . . . more . . .

Marcelinho fined for carnival celebrations (Mar 04, 2003)

Hertha Berlin's Brazilian midfielder Marcelinho has been slapped with a 20,000 euro (21,800 dollar) fine for celebrating the carnival here after two successive losses by his team, the club said. . . . more . . .

Manchester defensive duo doubtful for Leeds (Mar 04, 2003)

Manchester United defenders Wes Brown and Mikael Silvestre are doubtful for the English Premiership clash with Leeds at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .

Mancini worried about Wisla pitch (Mar 04, 2003)

Lazio coach Roberto Mancini has expressed his concerns about the state of Wisla Krakow's pitch ahead of Wednesday's rescheduled UEFA Cup fourth round, second leg tie in Poland. . . . more . . .

German Red Devils find Cup heaven (Mar 04, 2003)

German league tailenders Kaiserslautern turned the formbook upside down as they beat sixth-placed Werder Bremen 3-0 in their German Cup semi-final. . . . more . . .

Milan dismiss talk of disharmony (Mar 04, 2003)

AC Milan dismissed press reports that coach Carlo Ancelotti and vice-president Adriano Galliani had fallen out after the club's 3-3 home draw with Atalanta. . . . more . . .

Birmingham take city honours after Dublin butts Savage (Mar 04, 2003)

Birmingham City beat Aston Villa 2-0 in a bad-tempered Birmingham derby which boiled over when Dion Dublin was sent off for head-butting Robbie Savage. . . . more . . .

Bruce rejects Dublin racist charge (Mar 04, 2003)

Birmingham boss Steve Bruce insists Dion Dublin was not provoked by a racist remark before headbutting Robbie Savage in a stormy 2-0 win over Aston Villa. . . . more . . .

Wolf quits as Wolfsburg coach (Mar 04, 2003)

Wolfgang Wolf has quit as coach of German Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg and will be replaced by former Hertha Berlin trainer Jurgen Rober. . . . more . . .

English FA to launch probe into crowd trouble (Mar 04, 2003)

The English Football Association are to launch a probe into the crowd trouble which flared up during Birmingham City's 2-0 Premiership victory at city neighbours Aston Villa. . . . more . . .

Failure to land a trophy won't do says Manchester United supremo (Mar 04, 2003)

Manchester United's failure to land a trophy for the second successive season would be unacceptable declared their chief executive Peter Kenyon. . . . more . . .

Football appears to have gained advantage in drugs battle (Mar 04, 2003)

World football officials look as though they have gained an advantage in attempting to find a loophole in the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) efforts to impose an across-the-board two-year ban. . . . more . . .

AC Milan interested in Brazilian Kaka: press (Mar 04, 2003)

Sao Paulo's World Cup winning midfielder Kaka is the target of Italian giants AC Milan in a 19.5-million-dollar bid, it was reported. . . . more . . .

Houllier sees Cup win as key to more success (Mar 03, 2003)

Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier has urged his side to use their League Cup triumph as the springboard to further success this season. . . . more . . .

Forlan boost for United (Mar 03, 2003)

Manchester United hope to have Uruguayan striker Diego Forlan back for their Premiership game against Leeds at Old Trafford on Wednesday. . . . more . . .

Celtic not rushing Larsson back (Mar 03, 2003)

Swedish striker Henrik Larsson will not be rushed back into action for Celtic after his double jaw fracture last month, manager Martin O'Neill said. . . . more . . .

Chievo coach sets his sights on Champions League (Mar 03, 2003)

Chievo coach Luigi Del Neri has finally admitted his side can secure a top four finish to clinch a place in next season's Champions League. . . . more . . .

Juventus coach Lippi close to extending contract (Mar 03, 2003)

Juventus coach Marcello Lippi is close to signing an extension to his current contract which ends at the end of next season, club president Vittorio Chiusano revealed. . . . more . . .

Rangers' Dutch duo doubtful for Old Firm clash (Mar 03, 2003)

Rangers' Dutch duo Ronald de Boer and Arthur Numan are doubts for next week's Old Firm clash at Celtic Park. . . . more . . .

Keegan ready to axe duo (Mar 03, 2003)

Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan says he is ready to offload defenders Steve Howey and Richard Dunne. . . . more . . .

Inter legend Sarti slams Cuper (Mar 03, 2003)

Inter Milan legend Giuliano Sarti has slammed coach Hector Cuper's rotation policy following the club's demoralising 3-0 defeat at Juventus. . . . more . . .

Rival managers united in praise for revitalised Dudek (Mar 03, 2003)

Gerard Houllier and Alex Ferguson were united in their praise for Jerzy Dudek after the Liverpool goalkeeper buried the memory of the worst day of his career with a match-winning performance in the League Cup final. . . . more . . .

Monaco knock Marseille off the top (Mar 03, 2003)

Monaco took over top spot in the French league with an impressive 3-1 victory over Lille while Marseille were held to a goalless draw at Strasbourg. . . . more . . .

UEFA reschedule Wisla-Lazio tie (Mar 03, 2003)

European football's governing body has rescheduled the postponed UEFA Cup fourth round, second leg tie between Italian Serie A side Lazio and Wisla Krakow of Poland. . . . more . . .

Juve and Real Madrid roar into pole position (Mar 03, 2003)

Ronaldo scored his first hat-trick in a Real Madrid shirt as he helped to propel his side into first place in Spain and Juventus accelerated into top spot in Italy after crushing Inter Milan 3-0. . . . more . . .

Ferguson orders Manchester United stars to forget Cup defeat (Mar 03, 2003)

Alex Ferguson has ordered his defeated and deflated Manchester United side to forget about their League Cup failure. . . . more . . .

Metsu's Al-Ain wrap up Emirati League (Mar 03, 2003)

Reigning Emirati champions Al-Ain, coached by former Senegal coach Bruno Metsu, retained their title Monday with a 1-0 victory over Al-Nasr of Dubai. . . . more . . .

Roma keen to extend Emerson's stay (Mar 03, 2003)

AS Roma want their Brazilian midfield dynamo Emerson to stay at the club until 2008. . . . more . . .

Bosnich still in limbo (Mar 03, 2003)

Mark Bosnich's career is still on hold after both the Football League appeals committee and the Football Association confirmed they have yet to set dates for hearings of his cocaine test. . . . more . . .

England stars told to pay for wives (Mar 03, 2003)

England captain David Beckham has been told he will have to pay for his wife Victoria and sons Brooklyn and Romeo joining him at England's summer training camp. . . . more . . .

Henry sorry for crazy act (Mar 03, 2003)

French star Thierry Henry apologised for the crazy moment which almost spoilt English Premiership champions Arsenal's victory on Sunday. . . . more . . .

Everton fear MLS may hinder attempts to sign McBride (Mar 03, 2003)

English Premiership club Everton fear Brian McBride's American employers may spoil their attempts to sign him on a permanent basis. . . . more . . .

West Ham boss shrugs off Di Canio outburst (Mar 03, 2003)

Glenn Roeder as good as claimed that embattled West Ham did not need Italian striker Paolo Di Canio. . . . more . . .

Early accolade for China coach Haan after Brazil draw (Mar 03, 2003)

Arie Haan was named Asian Football Confederation coach of the month for February after steering China to a draw against World Cup winners Brazil in his first match in charge. . . . more . . .

Birmingham take city honours after Dublin butts Savage (Mar 03, 2003)

Birmingham City beat Aston Villa 2-0 in a bad-tempered Birmingham derby which boiled over when Dion Dublin was sent off for head-butting Robbie Savage on Monday. . . . more . . .

Chinese fans kept in suspense over Gazza debut (Mar 02, 2003)

Fans waiting for the Paul Gascoigne show to hit stadiums in China will have to wait a little longer after the former England star was left on the bench during his new team's Chinese FA Cup exit. . . . more . . .

Weakened Gunners have too much firepower for Charlton (Mar 02, 2003)

Weakened Arsenal, without Dennis Bergkamp and Patrick Vieira, strengthened their grip on the Premiership after defeating equally in-form Charlton Athletic 2-0 to end their opponents' five-match winning streak. . . . more . . .

Gunners have too much firepower for Charlton (Mar 02, 2003)

Arsenal, without Dennis Bergkamp and Patrick Vieira, strengthened their grip on the Premiership after defeating equally in-form Charlton Athletic 2-0 to end their opponents' five-match winning streak. . . . more . . .

Real stay top after Sociedad crash to defeat (Mar 02, 2003)

Real Madrid held on to top spot in Spain after Real Sociedad crashed to a 3-0 defeat away to Valladolid. . . . more . . .

Juventus crush title rivals Inter to take top spot (Mar 02, 2003)

Juventus took sole possession of first place in Italy's Serie A after crushing title rivals Inter Milan 3-0 at the Delle Alpi stadium. . . . more . . .

England camp gets all clear (Mar 02, 2003)

England's training camp at La Manga, Spain before their European 2004 qualifier against Slovakia in June will go ahead as planned, the Football Association (FA) confirmed. . . . more . . .

Last-gasp Mjallby keeps Celtic in the hunt (Mar 02, 2003)

Swedish international Johan Mjallby scored a last minute winner to give Celtic a 3-2 victory over Hibernian and kept them six points behind leaders Rangers who beat Livingston 2-1. . . . more . . .

England pair make it seven-up for Liverpool (Mar 02, 2003)

Goals from Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen together with a superb shot-stopping display by goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek gave Liverpool their record seventh League Cup victory at the expense of Manchester United. . . . more . . .

Kenyon denies Eriksson approach (Mar 02, 2003)

Manchester United chief executive Peter Kenyon has denied England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson had been approached about the United manager's job. . . . more . . .

Inzaghi breathes life into error-strewn Milan (Mar 02, 2003)

Filippo Inzaghi scored twice as AC Milan fought back from being three goals down to earn a 3-3 draw in a thrilling Serie A encounter at the San Siro. . . . more . . .

US tycoon buys 2.9 pct stake in Manchester United (Mar 02, 2003)

US sports tycoon Malcolm Glazer has quietly bought 2.9 percent of Manchester United, raising speculation that the English football club could fall into US hands. . . . more . . .

Gascoigne powerless to prevent charges crashing out of Chinese FA cup (Mar 01, 2003)

Paul Gascoigne's hopes of reviving his soccer career suffered another setback when his new team were sent crashing out of the Chinese FA Cup in the first round -- without "Gazza" kicking a ball in anger. . . . more . . .

Keane hints at earlier-than-expected retirement (Mar 01, 2003)

Manchester United's tough-tackling midfielder Roy Keane has given a big hint he may retire sooner than expected because of his serious injury problems. . . . more . . .

Atletico keeper Burgos has cancer op (Mar 01, 2003)

Atletico Madrid's Argentinian keeper German Burgos has had a successful operation to cut out a cancerous tumour from his left kidney, surgeons told AFP. . . . more . . .

Newcastle back in the hunt (Mar 01, 2003)

Newcastle United moved to within five points of Premiership leaders Arsenal and put a serious dent in Chelsea's Champions League ambitions with a 2-1 victory at St James Park. . . . more . . .

Shearer set to launch Premiership's Asia Cup (Mar 01, 2003)

Alan Shearer is set to lead a host of Premiership stars to Malaysia this summer for the inauguration of a new tournament involving his club Newcastle, Chelsea and Birmingham. . . . more . . .

I was petrified admits reformed Terry (Mar 01, 2003)

Chelsea's highly-rated central defender John Terry revealed he had been petrified during last year's court case in which he was cleared of charges of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, unlawful wounding, possessing a bottle as an offensive weapon and affray. . . . more . . .