Archive soccer news from around the world
Mourinho defiant despite defensive lapses (Dec 31, 2006)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has insisted his side are still capable of winning the title, despite lambasting their defending over the last four games. . . . more . . .
African player of the year shortlist announced (Dec 31, 2006)
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the top three nominees for the 2006 African Player of the Year Award following a vote by the coaches of member-national associations. . . . more . . .
Upson sees future out of Birmingham, says agent (Dec 31, 2006)
Matthew Upson does not see his future with current club Birmingham, his agent has said, a statement that will spark a scramble for his signature from several Premiership clubs in January. . . . more . . .
Madrid fans look to Ribery as Beckham's star wanes (Dec 31, 2006)
David Beckham's star is waning at Real Madrid with supporters of the club looking increasingly to Frenchman Franck Ribery, the preference of three quarters of them, according to a poll. . . . more . . .
Portuguese paper names Cristiano Ronaldo sportsman of the year (Dec 31, 2006)
Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has been named by as Portugal's sportsman of the year. . . . more . . .
On-loan Almeida vows to make Werder move permanent (Dec 31, 2006)
On-loan Portuguese forward Hugo Almeida has said he wants to make his move from Porto to Werder Bremen a permanent one. . . . more . . .
Angolan Flavio steers Ahly to Cairo derby triumph (Dec 31, 2006)
Angola World Cup striker Flavio Amado has scored twice as African champions Al-Ahly beat Zamalek 2-1 this weekend in the biggest domestic club match on the continent. . . . more . . .
Portuguese paper names Ronaldo sportsman of the year (Dec 31, 2006)
Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has been named by as Portugal's sportsman of the year. . . . more . . .
Nade goal stuns Arsenal (Dec 30, 2006)
Arsenal's disappointing year ended predictably in frustration when Christian Nade's first Premiership goal earned struggling Sheffield United a deserved 1-0 victory over Arsene Wenger's side at Bramall Lane. . . . more . . .
Terry back soon but Cole could sit season out (Dec 30, 2006)
Chelsea captain John Terry said he could return to action as soon as January 10 following his back surgery but midfielder Joe Cole may not play again this season, according to manager Jose Mourinho. . . . more . . .
Rangers blow chance to cut Celtic's SPL lead (Dec 30, 2006)
Rangers were booed off the field after being held to a 1-1 draw at home to St Mirren in the Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .
Anichebe at the double to destroy Newcastle (Dec 30, 2006)
Nigerian forward Victor Anichebe's double strike and Phil Neville's first goal for more than four years completed an afternoon of abject misery for Newcastle in their 3-0 defeat at Everton. . . . more . . .
Man City condemn West Ham to the drop zone (Dec 30, 2006)
West Ham will begin 2007 with the threat of relegation still hanging over them after a late winner from Manchester City substitute DaMarcus Beasley condemned them to finish the year in the Premiership drop zone. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo sends United six points clear (Dec 30, 2006)
Cristiano Ronaldo continued his remarkable scoring streak with two more goals that ensured Manchester United secured a 3-2 victory over Reading to move six points clear of Chelsea in the Premiership title race. . . . more . . .
Garcia condemns Spurs to scrappy defeat (Dec 30, 2006)
Luis Garcia gave Liverpool's Champions League hopes a timely lift after he sealed a scrappy 1-0 win over fellow European hopefuls Tottenham at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .
Bolton remain on course for Champions League finish (Dec 30, 2006)
Bolton's push for a place in the Champions League gathered pace with a 3-2 home win against Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
Chelsea stunned by nightmare neighbours Fulham (Dec 30, 2006)
Carlos Bocanegra blew a giant dint in Chelsea's hopes of retaining their English Premiership crown when he struck a late equaliser for Fulham in a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Hughes keeps Charlton's survival hopes alive (Dec 30, 2006)
Bryan Hughes has given Charlton renewed hope of avoiding relegation as his last-minute goal sealed a 2-1 win against 10-man Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Terry jogging a day after back op (Dec 29, 2006)
Chelsea and England captain John Terry went jogging at his club's training ground, just a day after surgery on a back injury, the English Premier League champions announced. . . . more . . .
Baptista set for Arsenal start (Dec 29, 2006)
Julio Baptista will emerge from the ranks of Arsenal undertstudies by starting in Saturday's Premier League match away to Sheffield United after Gunners manager Arsene Wenger revealed a lengthy injury list. . . . more . . .
Drogba reveals Chelsea doubts (Dec 29, 2006)
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has admitted he thought about leaving the English Premier League champions before the start of the current campaign. . . . more . . .
Italy keeper Buffon in clear over illegal gambling (Dec 29, 2006)
Juventus keeper Gianluigi Buffon was cleared of illegal gambling by the Italian football federation (FIGC). . . . more . . .
Pressley joins Celtic after rejecting Charlton (Dec 29, 2006)
Scotland defender Steven Pressley opted to join Celtic instead of English Premiership strugglers Charlton. . . . more . . .
Crouch going nowhere says Benitez (Dec 29, 2006)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has dismissed reports that he was preparing to sell giant England striker Peter Crouch and bring Valencia forward David Villa to Anfield during the January transfer window. . . . more . . .
Lazio coach resigned to losing Oddo (Dec 29, 2006)
Lazio coach Delio Rossi is resigned to losing his captain Massimo Oddo in the January transfer window. . . . more . . .
I'm still hungry says Ferguson (Dec 29, 2006)
Alex Ferguson insists that he still possesses the desire and hunger to bring success to Manchester United despite his looming 65th birthday on New Year's Eve. . . . more . . .
Gallardo arrives in Paris (Dec 29, 2006)
Former Argentine international Marcelo Gallardo has arrived in France, according to a Paris airport source, ahead of signing for Paris St Germain. . . . more . . .
Italy keeper Buffon cleared of illegal gambling (Dec 29, 2006)
Juventus keeper Gianluigi Buffon has been cleared of illegal gambling by a Turin prosecutor. . . . more . . .
China captain Zheng signed by Charlton (Dec 29, 2006)
China's national team captain Zheng Zhi has been signed by Charlton on loan from Shandong Luneng with a view to a permanent deal. . . . more . . .
FIFA backs Cambodia's football boss (Dec 29, 2006)
Football's world governing body has endorsed the election of a military police chief to head the Cambodia Football Federation, despite concerns of political interference. . . . more . . .
Boothroyd hits out at Premiership pressure (Dec 29, 2006)
Watford manager Adrian Boothroyd believes Premiership chairmen are putting too much pressure on managers struggling to keep their teams in English football's top flight. . . . more . . .
Heinze admits to World Cup hangover (Dec 28, 2006)
Manchester United's Argentinian defender Gabriel Heinze believes he has paid a heavy price for pushing himself to make his country's World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Kerzhakov signs for Spanish league leaders Sevilla (Dec 28, 2006)
Spanish league leaders Sevilla boosted their title push by signing Russian international striker Alexander Kerzhakov on a five and a half year deal from Zenith Saint Petersburg. . . . more . . .
Olympiakos axe Norwegian coach (Dec 28, 2006)
Greek champions Olympiakos have reportedly axed their Norwegian coach Trond Sollied. . . . more . . .
Chelsea skipper Terry has back surgery (Dec 28, 2006)
Chelsea and England captain John Terry has undergone surgery on his back injury, the Premiership champions annnounced in a statement. . . . more . . .
Zidane is butt of Spanish joke (Dec 28, 2006)
A Spanish newspaper claimed that Zinedine Zidane should have been World Footballer of the Year and not Italian World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro after a voting blunder. . . . more . . .
Fernandez at Real Betis until season's end (Dec 28, 2006)
Frenchman Luis Fernandez has agreed to coach relegation-threatened Spanish club Real Betis until the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Platini in favour of Champions League club limits (Dec 28, 2006)
French legend Michel Platini has vowed to limit English, Italian and Spanish representation in the Champions League to three clubs if he wins election as UEFA president next month. . . . more . . .
Totti keen to end career with Roma (Dec 28, 2006)
Francesco Totti wants to extend his contract with Roma so that he can finish his career with the Serie A club to whom he has always stayed loyal. . . . more . . .
Granqvist seals Wigan move (Dec 28, 2006)
English Premiership side Wigan are set to sign Sweden defender Andreas Granqvist from Helsingborgs on a loan deal to the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Stuart says Richards is not for sale (Dec 28, 2006)
Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce has said he has been in touch with Chelsea over possible signings sparking talk of a move for former player Shaun Wright-Phillips. . . . more . . .
Pressley in talks with Charlton (Dec 28, 2006)
Charlton's new boss Alan Pardew is set to sign former Hearts skipper Steven Pressley to help his side avoid relegation from the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Beckham to sneak into Tokyo (Dec 28, 2006)
Former England captain David Beckham is due to make a sneak visit to Tokyo on Friday to appear at promotional events. . . . more . . .
Just not good enough, admits Rangers boss (Dec 28, 2006)
Rangers' Scottish Premier League campaign suffered another setback when Inverness hit a late winner in a 2-1 victory which left Gers' boss Paul Le Guen hitting out at his players. . . . more . . .
Pardew 'disgusted' as Charlton suffer late heartbreak (Dec 28, 2006)
Alan Pardew was robbed of a winning start as Charlton manager when Fulham snatched a controversial injury-time goal in a 2-2 draw in the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Late Caley strike sinks Rangers (Dec 27, 2006)
Glasgow Rangers' Scottish Premier League campaign suffered another setback when Inverness hit a late winner in a 2-1 victory. . . . more . . .
Controversy robs Pardew of opening Charlton win (Dec 27, 2006)
Alan Pardew was robbed of a winning start as Charlton manager when Fulham snatched a controversial injury-time goal in a 2-2 draw in the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
We'll not abandon Liverpool, say backers (Dec 27, 2006)
The company behind the proposed takeover of English football giants Liverpool insisted that they would have a long-term commitment to the club and are not interested in just a quick profit. . . . more . . .
Jol vows to keep Defoe (Dec 27, 2006)
Tottenham manager Martin Jol insisted he would never sell Jermain Defoe after the England forward's double strike sunk Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Celtic's Balde out with broken leg (Dec 27, 2006)
Celtic defender Bobo Balde suffered a broken leg during Tuesday's 2-2 draw with Dundee United, the Glasgow giants announced. . . . more . . .
Eto'o targets January return (Dec 27, 2006)
Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o, who has been sidelined with a right knee injury since September, will return to training in mid-January, the Spanish champions said. . . . more . . .
Mourinho expects standing ovation at Porto (Dec 27, 2006)
Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho says he expects applause and even a standing ovation when he returns to his old club FC Porto in February for the first knockout round of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Fergie and Mourinho step up war of words (Dec 27, 2006)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and Chelsea counterpart Jose Mourinho stepped up their war of words, each insisting that their side has control of their Premiership destiny. . . . more . . .
Adebayor out of Blades match (Dec 27, 2006)
Arsenal will be without striker Emmanuel Adebayor for the Premiership match away to Sheffield United. . . . more . . .
Fernandez appointed Real Betis coach (Dec 27, 2006)
Frenchman Luis Fernandez has been appointed coach of relegation threatened Spanish club Real Betis in place of sacked Javier Irureta. . . . more . . .
Injury blow for Palermo striker Amauri (Dec 27, 2006)
Palermo's in-form Brazilian striker Amauri is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after damaging cruciate ligaments in his right knee, the Sicilian Serie A club has said. . . . more . . .
Zidane headbutt inspires new fashion range (Dec 27, 2006)
An Italian fashion designer has launched a new range of leisurewear inspired by Zinedine Zidane's infamous headbutt on Marco Materazzi in this year's World Cup final. . . . more . . .
Figo set to sign for Saudi club (Dec 27, 2006)
Portugal midfielder Luis Figo is set to join Saudi Arabian side Al Ittihad. . . . more . . .
Beattie not for sale, says Everton boss (Dec 26, 2006)
Everton boss David Moyes said that striker James Beattie will not be sold during January's transfer window. . . . more . . .
I almost quit French team, admits Trezeguet (Dec 26, 2006)
French striker David Trezeguet has admitted that he came close to quitting international football after the World Cup because he had lost all confidence in coach Raymond Domenech. . . . more . . .
Van Persie breaks Watford hearts (Dec 26, 2006)
Dutch international Robin van Persie scored a spectacular goal seven minutes from time to give Arsenal a 2-1 victory over Watford at Vicarage Road and fire the Gunners to third in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
McCarthy goal frustrates Liverpool (Dec 26, 2006)
South Africa striker Benni McCarthy scored the only goal of the game as Blackburn Rovers ended Liverpool's recent revival with a 1-0 win at Ewood Park. . . . more . . .
Nakamura salvages Celtic pride (Dec 26, 2006)
Japan midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura rescued Celtic's unbeaten home record as his late goal capped a dramatic fightback and earned a 2-2 draw against Dundee United. . . . more . . .
Birmingham celebrate century in style (Dec 26, 2006)
Birmingham marked the centenary of their St Andrews stadium by moving eight point clear at the top of the Championship. . . . more . . .
Ireland eases City fears against Blades (Dec 26, 2006)
Stephen Ireland's first goal for Manchester City secured a 1-0 win for the visitors against fellow Premiership strugglers Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo doubles up as United extend lead (Dec 26, 2006)
Cristiano Ronaldo's remarkable holiday period continued at Old Trafford when he scored twice within four minutes of appearing as a half-time substitute in Manchester United's 3-1 victory over Wigan, to put the Premiership leaders four points clear. . . . more . . .
Bolton on the rise after fourth win in a row (Dec 26, 2006)
Bolton stretched their winning streak to four games with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Newcastle at the Reebok Stadium. . . . more . . .
Johnson embroiled in penalty row again (Dec 26, 2006)
Everton striker Andrew Johnson was embroiled in another penalty row during his side's 0-0 draw against Middlesbrough. . . . more . . .
European football struggles to stay competitive (Dec 26, 2006)
When it comes to level playing fields, it seems the Americans are flattening their European counterparts. . . . more . . .
Terry may need back surgery (Dec 26, 2006)
Chelsea and England captain John Terry may need an operation to cure his back injury, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has said. . . . more . . .
Pardew admits Charlton face tough fight for survival (Dec 26, 2006)
New Charlton manager Alan Pardew admits he faces one of the toughest tests of his career as he tries to keep the struggling London club in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Portsmouth's Fernandes wants to stay in England (Dec 26, 2006)
Portsmouth's Portuguese midfielder Manuel Fernandes, who has been linked to Arsenal and Manchester United, says he would like to stay in England when his current loan from Lisbon-based Benfica ends. . . . more . . .
Chelsea drop points after Reading revival (Dec 26, 2006)
Reigning champions Chelsea missed the chance to go top of the Premiership after being held to a 2-2 draw by Reading at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Ailing Zamalek hope Michel will be their white knight (Dec 26, 2006)
Former France coach Henri Michel has added yet another club to his lengthening list when Egyptian giants Zamalek hired him as their new coach, the club announced. . . . more . . .
Japanese high school striker bound for Grenoble (Dec 26, 2006)
Japanese schoolboy striker Sho Ito, who has agreed to play for Grenoble, has said the French second-division club would provide him with a stepping stone into top-level European football. . . . more . . .
'Big Phil' to say farewell to Portugal after Euro 2008 (Dec 26, 2006)
Brazil's World Cup winning coach Luiz Felipe Scolari will leave his present post with Portugal after the Euro 2008 campaign is finished. . . . more . . .
Troubled Cassano set for Real exit (Dec 26, 2006)
Wayward Italian international striker Antonio Cassano is set to end his nightmare year at Spanish giants Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Football match-fixing accused to face Vietnam trials (Dec 26, 2006)
Prosecutors in Vietnam have issued their indictments in two major football match-fixing scandals, both likely to come to court early next year. . . . more . . .
Like father, like son at Monaco (Dec 25, 2006)
At just 38 years old, Monaco coach Laurent Banide can call upon plenty of expert guidance if required - his father Gerard twice occupied the hot-seat at the principality club. . . . more . . .
Hughes wary of Bellamy's Rovers return (Dec 25, 2006)
Blackburn manager Mark Hughes fears old-boy Craig Bellamy could increase the pressure on his struggling Rovers side when the Wales striker returns to Ewood Park with Liverpool on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Villa victory the spur for O'Neill (Dec 25, 2006)
Martin O'Neill's honeymoon period is well and truly over at Aston Villa and new owner Randy Lerner must be acutely aware that his millions are sorely needed as the January transfer window looms. . . . more . . .
Jewell wants more Heskey heroics against United (Dec 25, 2006)
Wigan's former England striker Emile Heskey, having almost upset reigning champions Chelsea, has the opportunity to attempt a similar feat against the reigning champions' title rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford on Boxing Day. . . . more . . .
Keeper row reignited as Chelsea face Reading (Dec 25, 2006)
Chelsea have been ice-cool in their pursuit of a third consecutive Premiership title but Tuesday's meeting with Reading here at Stamford Bridge promises to test their temperament to the limit. . . . more . . .
Wenger hails Walcott ahead of Watford clash (Dec 25, 2006)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes Theo Walcott is ready to play for England even though the teenage forward has failed to secure a regular starting place for the London giants. . . . more . . .
Hunt shrugs off death threats (Dec 25, 2006)
Reading midfielder Stephen Hunt, who received death threats after his challenge left Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech with a fractured skull earlier this season, says he has no worries about facing the Londoners again on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Young French football hope allowed home ahead of rape trial (Dec 25, 2006)
Promising French footballer Garra Dembele who is facing trial over raping an American student has been released and allowed to return to France. . . . more . . .
National squads play too many matches, says Mourinho (Dec 25, 2006)
National teams are required to play far too many matches, Chelsea's Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho said in a newspaper interview. . . . more . . .
Reading keeper plots Chelsea upset (Dec 24, 2006)
Reading goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann believes his team can stun champions Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
South Americans 'forced to sell best players' (Dec 24, 2006)
South America's top clubs reportedly have to sell off their best players to cure an economic crisis caused by bad management and stayaway fans. . . . more . . .
Cahill pledges to return fitter and stronger (Dec 24, 2006)
Hobbling Everton midfielder Tim Cahill believes he will return from his lengthy, injury-enforced absence a better player. . . . more . . .
Viduka wants to stay with Boro (Dec 24, 2006)
Veteran Australian striker Mark Viduka says he wants to sign a new deal to stay with English Premiership side Middlesbrough. . . . more . . .
Pardew takes over at crisis club Charlton (Dec 24, 2006)
Former West Ham manager Alan Pardew was named as the new manager of struggling Premiership side Charlton replacing Les Reed who had only been in charge since November. . . . more . . .
Hammers and City challenge red cards (Dec 24, 2006)
Struggling Premiership sides West Ham and Manchester City hope to overturn the red cards shown to Paul Konchesky and Joey Barton. . . . more . . .
Four Iraqi footballers wounded in mortar attack (Dec 24, 2006)
Four footballers with one of the star teams in Iraq's top league were wounded in a mortar attack while training in a Baghdad stadium, their manager said. . . . more . . .
United in the clear over bungs: Ferguson (Dec 24, 2006)
Manchester United have nothing to worry about with the FA's illegal payments inquiry, according to manager Sir Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
Lennon gets New Year all-clear (Dec 24, 2006)
Celtic captain Neil Lennon will be available to play in the Scottish Premier League games against Motherwell and Kilmarnock over the new year period despite his red card against Falkirk. . . . more . . .
Scrap post-match interviews: Ferguson (Dec 24, 2006)
Fiery Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has demanded that the English Premier League scraps the traditional post-match manager's interview. . . . more . . .
We can win the title: Capello (Dec 24, 2006)
Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello has insisted his struggling galacticos can still win the Spanish title. . . . more . . .
Adriano thanks team-mates after ending goal famine (Dec 24, 2006)
Inter Milan striker Adriano has thanked his team-mates for sticking by him when the goals dried up. . . . more . . .
Abramovich: Mourinho's no friend of mine (Dec 24, 2006)
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich said he was on warm but not friendly terms with Blues boss Jose Mourinho and insisted he had no influence on team selection in an interview published on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea win fails to impress Mourinho (Dec 24, 2006)
Chelsea needed an injury-time Arjen Robben strike to secure a 3-2 win at Wigan that left the reigning Premiership champions just two points behind leaders Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Lyon take dominance into winter break (Dec 23, 2006)
Five-time French champions Lyon headed into the winter break with a 15-point lead over their rivals despite being held to a 0-0 draw by Monaco. . . . more . . .
Robben saves Chelsea after Wigan revival (Dec 23, 2006)
Arjen Robben kept Chelsea on Manchester United's heels with an injury-time winner that sealed a 3-2 win at the JJB Stadium and robbed Wigan of a deserved point. . . . more . . .
Liverpool add to Watford's woes (Dec 23, 2006)
Liverpool stayed third in the Premiership with a 2-0 win over Watford at Anfield that left the visitors rooted to the bottom-of-the-table. . . . more . . .
Pompey bounce back to blunt Blades (Dec 23, 2006)
Portsmouth came from a goal down to beat Sheffield United 3-1 at Fratton Park as their unlikely bid for European football next season remained on course. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo and Scholes make good on Rooney gamble (Dec 23, 2006)
Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Paul Scholes secured a 3-0 win for Premiership leaders Manchester United away to Aston Villa despite manager Sir Alex Ferguson's decision to rest striker Wayne Rooney. . . . more . . .
Newcastle keep climbing as Tottenham falter (Dec 23, 2006)
Newcastle's surge up the Premiership table gathered pace as they overcame Tottenham 3-1 at St James' Park. . . . more . . .
Arsenal's joy of six too much for Rovers (Dec 23, 2006)
Arsenal gave their home supporters some long overdue festive cheer with a raucous 6-2 victory over struggling Blackburn Rovers at the Emirates Stadium. . . . more . . .
Two-goal Anelka returns to haunt City (Dec 23, 2006)
Nicolas Anelka enjoyed a two-goal winning return to Manchester City to lead Bolton to a 2-0 victory which piled on the relegation agony for Stuart Pearce's side. . . . more . . .
Johnson back on the goal trail as Everton triumph (Dec 23, 2006)
Andrew Johnson ended his 12-game goal-drought to spark Everton's 2-0 win at Reading. . . . more . . .
Gravesen helps 10-man Celtic stretch lead (Dec 23, 2006)
Celtic stretched their lead at the top of the Scottish Premier League to 16 points on Saturday with a 1-0 home win over Falkirk but the match ended in controversy when captain Neil Lennon was sent off. . . . more . . .
Boro ease out of relegation places as Charlton suffer again (Dec 23, 2006)
Middlesbrough won a crucial English Premiership relegation 'six-pointer' with Charlton emerging 2-0 victors and heaping more misery on the visitors after their midweek League Cup humiliation by League One outfit Wycombe Wanderers. . . . more . . .
Inter fight back to equal consecutive wins record (Dec 23, 2006)
Italian league leaders Inter Milan equalled the Serie A record of 11 consecutive wins after fighting back from a goal down to beat Atalanta 2-1. . . . more . . .
Hammers on upward Curb after Fulham draw (Dec 23, 2006)
West Ham remain unbeaten under new manager Alan Curbishley after a goalless draw away to London rivals Fulham here at Craven Cottage saw the Hammers move out of the bottom three - temporarily at least. . . . more . . .
Italy show steely side to conquer the world (Dec 22, 2006)
Italy's World Cup win this year was a truly remarkable achievement given the dramatic off-field distractions which had threatened to undermine the Azzurri's campaign. . . . more . . .
Scottish football skint but on the way up (Dec 22, 2006)
By all rational thinking Scottish football should be in a sorry state of affairs in its current financial climate. . . . more . . .
Hudson ends Sunderland's undefeated run (Dec 22, 2006)
Mark Hudson scored the only goal as hosts Crystal Palace ended Sunderland's seven-match unbeaten run with a 1-0 victory in the Championship at Selhurst Park here. . . . more . . .
Juventus pegged back by plucky Arezzo (Dec 22, 2006)
Promotion hopefuls Juventus blew the chance to claim the outright leadership of Serie B after they threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 at home to Arezzo. . . . more . . .
Saha filling Ruud role, says Ferguson (Dec 22, 2006)
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Louis Saha has succeeded in the daunting task of replacing the prolific former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy. . . . more . . .
Geremi wants to extend Chelsea deal (Dec 22, 2006)
Chelsea defender Geremi said he was keen to have fresh contract talks with the English Premiership champions in a bid to extend his stay with the Londoners. . . . more . . .
United's Bardsley to be loaned to Sunderland (Dec 22, 2006)
Manchester United full-back Phil Bardsley will go on loan to Championship side Sunderland next month, the Premiership leaders' manager Sir Alex Ferguson said. . . . more . . .
FA calls for boycott of agents who snubbed corruption inquiry (Dec 22, 2006)
The Football Association (FA) called on the Premier League to tell clubs to boycott the eight agents who have refused to co-operate with the Lord Stevens inquiry. . . . more . . .
South Africa president defends World Cup preparations (Dec 22, 2006)
South Africa is further down the road in its preparations for the 2010 football World Cup than any other previous host nation, President Thabo Mbeki said. . . . more . . .
FIFA ready to boost Indian soccer in 2007 (Dec 22, 2006)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter said that world football's governing body will launch a campaign next year to encourage the growth of the sport in India. . . . more . . .
It's only logical, Germany would have won World Cup with me: Kahn (Dec 22, 2006)
Former German international goalkeeper Oliver Kahn, relegated to the bench during the 2006 World Cup, has insisted it was only logical that they would have been world champions if he had been in goal. . . . more . . .
AC Milan's Borriello suspended after failed doping test (Dec 22, 2006)
The Italian football league's disciplinary commission has suspended AC Milan striker Marco Borriello with immediate effect after he failed a doping test. . . . more . . .
Reading's Sonko fears attack at Chelsea after death threats (Dec 22, 2006)
Reading defender Ibrahima Sonko has revealed his fear of playing at Chelsea after receiving death threats. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid sign Argentine tyro (Dec 22, 2006)
Spanish giants Real Madrid signed highly-rated Argentinian midfielder Fernando Gago from Boca Juniors for 20.5million euros. . . . more . . .
British police probe two football agents (Dec 22, 2006)
Senior London police have confirmed they are investigating allegations of fraud against two football agents. . . . more . . .
Argentine prodigy dampens Barca title chase (Dec 22, 2006)
Atletico Madrid's Argentinian striker Sergio Aguero's second-half goal forced a 1-1 draw with Barcelona here leaving the European champions three points adrift of league leaders Sevilla. . . . more . . .
AC Milan's woes continue as player fails dope test (Dec 21, 2006)
AC Milan's moderate season worsened as striker Marco Borriello was revealed to have failed a drugs test. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid sign Argentine tyro (Dec 21, 2006)
Spanish giants Real Madrid signed highly-rated Argentinian midfielder Fernando Gago from Boca Juniors for 20.5million euros. . . . more . . .
Allardyce wants to get back to business (Dec 21, 2006)
Sam Allardyce insists he should be allowed to concentrate on managing Bolton after the publication of Lord Stevens' report into corruption in football. . . . more . . .
Betis sack Irureta (Dec 21, 2006)
Relegation-threatened Spanish First Division side Real Betis sacked coach Javier Irureta. . . . more . . .
Former Polish captain Nowak named to US Olympic coaching staff (Dec 21, 2006)
Peter Nowak, who captained Poland's national team for three years, was named assistant coach of the US men's Olympic (under-23) team, backing up interim US national team coach Bob Bradley. . . . more . . .
Jewell: Baines won't go on the cheap (Dec 21, 2006)
Wigan manager Paul Jewell has told Arsene Wenger to forget about signing England Under-21 left-back Leighton Baines in a cut-price deal. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho applies for Spanish citizenship (Dec 21, 2006)
Barcelona's Brazilian international striker Ronaldinho has applied for Spanish citizenship, which he could obtain early in 2007, a spokesman for the Catalan club has confirmed. . . . more . . .
Mido wants Chelsea final showdown (Dec 21, 2006)
Egyptian striker Mido insists Tottenham would not fear a League Cup final showdown with English champions Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Blame Dowie says Charlton chairman (Dec 21, 2006)
Charlton chairman Richard Murray believes sacked boss Iain Dowie is to blame for the Premiership club's dismal form. . . . more . . .
Camara ruled out for Christmas fixtures (Dec 21, 2006)
Wigan striker Henri Camara will be out of action for six weeks after suffering knee ligament damage. . . . more . . .
Agent hits back at Lord Stevens' bribes report (Dec 21, 2006)
A leading football agent has admitted he refused to cooperate with Lord Stevens' probe into corruption in the Premiership because he felt the investigation was flawed. . . . more . . .
Mascherano wants chance to shine at West Ham (Dec 21, 2006)
Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano wants new West Ham boss Alan Curbishley to give him a chance to prove himself. . . . more . . .
Germany's Littbarski to coach relegated Avispa Fukuoka (Dec 21, 2006)
Former West Germany's 1990 World Cup winning midfielder Pierre Littbarski will come to the rescue of relegated Avispa Fukuoka as head coach. . . . more . . .
Drogba savours Chelsea's League Cup success (Dec 21, 2006)
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba admitted he has a soft spot for the League Cup after dumping Newcastle out of the competition in the quarter-finals. . . . more . . .
Japan international Santos to play for Austria's FC Salzburg (Dec 21, 2006)
Japan international Alessandro "Alex" Santos will play for Austrian first division club FC Salzburg on loan, his current club, J-League's Urawa Red Diamonds. . . . more . . .
Defoe breaks brave Southend's resistance (Dec 20, 2006)
Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe broke Southend's brave resistance as his extra-time strike secured a 1-0 win in the League Cup quarter-finals. . . . more . . .
Aachen jinx strikes again as Bayern crash out of cup (Dec 20, 2006)
Bayern Munich's hopes of lifting the German Cup for a third successive season went up in smoke as Alemannia Aachen produced the shock of the season with a 4-2 win to eliminate the holders at the last 16 stage. . . . more . . .
Real golden boy Cannavaro acquires lead feet (Dec 20, 2006)
Fabio Cannavaro showed that he is far from infallible despite being the 2006 World Player of the Year and was to blame for two of Recreativo Huelva's goals in their shock 3-0 win at Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Inter eye record after 10th straight league win (Dec 20, 2006)
Inter Milan maintained their seven-point lead at the top of Serie A after defeating Lazio 2-0 for their 10th successive league win. . . . more . . .
Drogba torments Newcastle again (Dec 20, 2006)
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba broke Newcastle's hearts again as his superb late goal clinched a 1-0 League Cup quarter-final win. . . . more . . .
Mascherano wants chance to shine West Ham (Dec 20, 2006)
Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano wants new West Ham boss Alan Curbishley to give him a chance to prove himself. . . . more . . .
Rovers take Nesmachniy on trial (Dec 20, 2006)
Blackburn manager Mark Hughes has handed a trial to Ukraine defender Andriy Nesmachniy. . . . more . . .
Doll to remain in Hamburg hot-seat (Dec 20, 2006)
Thomas Doll will stay on as SV Hamburg coach for the second half of the season, the club said in a press conference. . . . more . . .
FIFA confirms Iran suspension lifted (Dec 20, 2006)
FIFA have confirmed that Iran's suspension from world football has been lifted, ending a dispute over alleged government interference. . . . more . . .
Newcastle confirm Polygon approach (Dec 20, 2006)
English Premiership side Newcastle have confirmed that St James' Park Group Limited - a consortium backed by Polygon - are one of the parties to approach them regarding a possible offer for the club. . . . more . . .
Sign Kaka now urges Bayern's Sagnol (Dec 20, 2006)
French international defender Willy Sagnol has urged Bayern Munich to get the cheque book out in the winter break and sign AC Milan's Brazilian international playmaker Kaka. . . . more . . .
English Premier League to look into 17 transfers (Dec 20, 2006)
England's Premier League is to target 17 transfers that need further investigation following Former Metropolitan Police commissioner Lord Stevens' inquiry into illegal payments in football. . . . more . . .
Police informed as 17 suspect football transfers revealed (Dec 20, 2006)
An inquiry into illegal payments in English football is to target 17 transfers that need further investigation, Former Metropolitan Police commissioner Lord Stevens confirmed. . . . more . . .
Saha extends Manchester United deal (Dec 20, 2006)
Louis Saha has signed an extension to his contract which will keep him at Manchester United until 2010, the English Premiership leaders' website announced. . . . more . . .
Mourinho says sorry for Johnson jibe (Dec 20, 2006)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has apologised to Everton striker Andy Johnson saying he wrongly accused him of diving for a penalty in the Premiership match between the clubs on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Former Japan skipper Miyamoto to play for FC Salzburg (Dec 20, 2006)
Former Japan defender Tsuneyasu Miyamoto has agreed to play for Austrian first division outfit FC Salzburg, his current club, J-League's Gamba Osaka, said. . . . more . . .
Man Utd too good to turn down, says Larsson (Dec 20, 2006)
Henrik Larsson has admitted the prospect of joining Manchester United at a crucial stage of the season was too good a chance to turn down. . . . more . . .
Valencia's Spanish armada sink Mallorca (Dec 19, 2006)
Valencia, Spanish champions twice in the last five years, notched up their third consecutive victory with an emphatic 3-1 win over a lackluster Real Mallorca.