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Fergie hopes for smooth transition




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Updated Jan 28, 2011 9:41 AM ET
Sir Alex Ferguson admits he hopes to do better replacing Edwin van der Sar than he did finding someone to take over from Peter Schmeichel.
Manchester United goalkeeper Van der Sar confirmed on Thursday that he will retire from football at the end of the season.
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Although the 40-year-old is still producing high-class performances, he is keen to bow out at the top and believes extending himself into another arduous campaign would be too much.
It means Ferguson is now beginning a search for the Dutchman's successor, just as he did in 1999 when Schmeichel headed off for Sporting Lisbon.
On that occasion, the United boss made a big mistake in not signing Van der Sar from Ajax.
It triggered a tortuous six years at Old Trafford, when 10 keepers tried and failed to fill Schmeichel's enormous gloves before Van der Sar headed north from Fulham.
"We hope we are better organised about it this time," said Ferguson.
"There will always be a comparison between Peter and Edwin.
"In my time those two were the outstanding goalkeepers, not just at our club, but in their entire careers.
"Look at the rich career that Edwin had; four Champions League finals, three World Cups. It was fantastic and Peter, of course, was recognised by everyone at the time as the best goalkeeper in the world.
"They are different personalities. But they are great characters and I have been very fortunate to have the two of them."
Having initially signed Van der Sar on a two-year contract, Ferguson could hardly have expected to retain such vast experience for six seasons.
It has coincided with one of the most productive periods in United's history, including three successive Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph in addition to one losing final and another semi-final appearance.
"Edwin's impact as a professional is the one thing I will always remember about him," said Ferguson.
"He has been absolutely fantastic in all areas, quite apart aside from his ability on the football field. His training performances, his example to young players, his personality in the dressing room. He is a really special man.
"But he made the point himself, it is pointless trying to be superman into your 40s. There has to be a time for everyone in football.
"It is one of the sad parts of my job that you get to the stage where age takes over."
As speculation intensifies about who might arrive as the new number one - Germany's Manuel Neuer, Maarten Stekelenburg of Holland, France's Hugo Lloris and current Russia number one Igor Akinfeev are just four of the many names being mentioned - Anders Lindegaard may get his first opportunity to stake a claim at Southampton on Saturday.
Lindegaard is yet to play a competitive game for United since his arrival from Aalesunds but with Van der Sar sitting out the trip to the south coast in order to be fresh for Tuesday's Premier League encounter, he may get his chance ahead of Tomasz Kuszczak.
Van der Sar's decision does bring certainty to his career, just as Ryan Giggs has done by confirming he will carry on for another year.
Gary Neville has not spoken about his own future, although it seems highly unlikely he will carry on.
However, Paul Scholes is yet to make up his mind, even though Ferguson has already asked him to play for an extra year.
"Paul has not made up his mind," said Ferguson.
"I hope he stays on for another year. I think he can do that but I will leave it with him."
 
Edwin eyes winning farewell


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Updated Jan 28, 2011 7:24 AM ET
Edwin van der Sar has urged his Manchester United team-mates not to let their rivals back into the title race in his final season as a player.
Sat., Jan. 22​
Wolves 0-3 Liverpool |Recap
Arsenal 3-0 Wigan | Recap
Everton 2-2 West Ham | Recap
Man Utd 5-0 Birmingham | Recap
Newcastle 1-1 Tottenham | Recap
Fulham 2-0 Stoke City | Recap
Blackpool 1-2 Sunderland | Recap
Aston Villa 1-0 Man City | Recap
Sun., Jan. 23​
Blackburn 2-0 West Brom | Recap
Mon., Jan. 24​
Bolton 0-4 Chelsea | Recap
Tue., Jan. 25​
Blackpool 2-3 Man Utd | Recap
Wigan 1-2 Aston Villa | Recap
Wed., Jan. 26​
Liverpool 1-0 Fulham | Recap BPL Scores | Table | Fixtures

Although United are on FA Cup duty at Southampton on Saturday evening, thoughts of next Tuesday's encounter with Aston Villa will shape Sir Alex Ferguson's team selection at St Mary's.
Victory will consolidate their present position, five points in front of Arsenal, with Manchester City and Chelsea even further adrift.
It is an unexpected advantage, even to those inside Old Trafford.
But it is one that should not be tossed away lightly.
"We didn't get the results we were looking for at the beginning of the season but luckily we got a break with some of the other results," Van der Sar told MUTV.
"Somehow we found ourselves on the top of the league, without having played that well so far. But we are there, so we have to and try to stay there as long as possible."
Van der Sar will retire in the summer, which just places extra emphasis on the results he helps United achieve this season.
Now past his 40th birthday, it is highly unlikely the veteran Dutchman will make the journey to the south coast, meaning that either Tomasz Kuszczak will return or Anders Lindegaard will be handed his debut.
Lindegaard was on the bench at Blackpool on Tuesday but is still to play a competitive game since his arrival from Norwegian outfit Aalesund and is itching for the chance to prove fellow Dane Peter Schmeichel wrong in doubting his ability to follow in his shoes.
Plenty of other changes are anticipated too.
Rafael has been ruled out due to concussion, so John O'Shea can expect a recall, whilst Jonny Evans would also hope to find a place somewhere in the United defence.
Most interest will surround Ferguson's attack though, where 20-goal Dimitar Berbatov will probably be excused the lengthy trip but Wayne Rooney might be retained, knowing his place against Villa could be at risk if he performs as meekly as he did at Blackpool on Tuesday.
Rooney was a mere bystander compared to the second-half cameo of Javier Hernandez at Bloomfield Road and he may be asked to work in tandem with the Mexican at Southampton, knowing only one of them will keep their place against Gerard Houllier's men.
 
Inter deny Bale bid rumors


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Updated Jan 28, 2011 8:54 AM ET
Inter Milan's chief executive has dismissed reports claiming the Italian giants are preparing a £40million bid for Tottenham's Gareth Bale.
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It had been suggested the reigning Serie A champions were readying a big-money offer to try and lure the Wales winger away from White Hart Lane.
Having been on the receiving end of two sublime performances from Bale in the Champions League group stage this season, Inter are fully aware of what the 21-year-old is capable of.
Spurs, though, have always maintained that Bale is not for sale at any price.
That means they would be unlikely to consider any approach from Inter for the youngster, but the Italian giants insist they have no plans to test Harry Redknapp's resolve anyway.
On the speculation, Inter chief executive Ernesto Paolillo said: "It is incorrect. It's not true."



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  • Report Abuse PhiladelphiaHotSpur
    • 1/28/2011 9:42:26 AM
    Downgrade to lesser league in Italy..................That doesnt make too much sense.

    He seems pretty comfortable in NL and the Spurs asking price is pretty outrageous that will clearly eliminate 99% of the clubs including United.........

    Either way, w/ his back injury , that Pienaar pick-up is looking like a real nice bit of business.

    Now, where's my striker ?
  •  Report Abuse 4allSoccer
    • 1/28/2011 9:41:34 AM
    Gareth Bale is not as good as he is hyped out to be. He is not a consistent performer and will struggle playing for any of the top teams. Idon't see him as a super star or even a star on any of the top european teams. I think he should stay at Spurs where he will be a hero for them rather than warm benches atother clubs and be a nobody.
  •  Report Abuse irishyid
    • 1/28/2011 9:08:20 AM
    40 mil down and 10 per year for 4 more now we are talking,COYS.
 
Mancini open to Adebayor return




 Updated Jan 28, 2011 10:32 AM ET
Manchester City manager Robert Mancini has refused to rule out a return to Eastlands for Emmanuel Adebayor after his loan spell at Real Madrid.
Adebayor has joined Real until the end of the season after falling out of favour at Eastlands.
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The striker was involved in a training-ground bust-up with Kolo Toure earlier in the season but Mancini insists that was not the reason he allowed the player to leave at a crucial stage of the campaign.
Mancini said: "These things happen in every club. Will he come back? Why not? This situation is good for him because has has a chance to play in the Champions League. At the end of the season we will see.
"I think it is important that when someone plays they play 100% and are always happy."
Meanwhile Mancini has hinted that Shaun Wright-Phillips could be staying until the end of the season with the transfer window about to close.
The Italian added: "If we lose another player we need to bring in someone different. It is impossible we have 19-20 players for the next four months."
However the City boss wants midfielder Michael Johnson to go out on loan and added: "He needs to play. It is important for him."



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Adebayor tips City for title tilt


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Updated Jan 28, 2011 10:12 AM ET
Real Madrid new boy Emmanuel Adebayor believes Manchester City have a "big chance" to win the Premier League title this season.
Sat., Jan. 22​
Wolves 0-3 Liverpool |Recap
Arsenal 3-0 Wigan | Recap
Everton 2-2 West Ham | Recap
Man Utd 5-0 Birmingham | Recap
Newcastle 1-1 Tottenham | Recap
Fulham 2-0 Stoke City | Recap
Blackpool 1-2 Sunderland | Recap
Aston Villa 1-0 Man City | Recap
Sun., Jan. 23​
Blackburn 2-0 West Brom | Recap
Mon., Jan. 24​
Bolton 0-4 Chelsea | Recap
Tue., Jan. 25​
Blackpool 2-3 Man Utd | Recap
Wigan 1-2 Aston Villa | Recap
Wed., Jan. 26​
Liverpool 1-0 Fulham | Recap BPL Scores | Table | Fixtures

Big-spending City, who last won the league back in 1968, are currently third in the standings, six points behind leaders Manchester United having played a game more.
However, when asked if City can win the league at his Real unveiling, Adebayor said: "Of course, why not?
"I think Manchester City have a big chance to win the league this season, with all the players that they've bought, Mario Balotelli, Edin Dzeko, they've got a big squad...
"And at the minute they are playing good football, so they have a chance to win it. It's not going to be easy, don't get me wrong, but I think they will do everything to achieve that because it's a dream of the club."
Adebayor also spoke about his new club's chances of finishing the Spanish Primera Division season as champions.
Madrid are four points behind two-time reigning champions Barcelona at the top of the table, although that is essentially a five-point gap as Jose Mourinho's men lost 5-0 at the Nou Camp and would need something special in the return meeting at the Bernabeu to gain the better head-to-head record.
Adebayor said: "Here in Spain, Madrid are only four points behind Barcelona and I think everyone will agree with me that Barcelona are playing fantastic football at the moment, but in football you just have to keep winning games, and then we have to beat them at home and wait for them to lose points to get ahead of them.
"It's not going to be easy but at the end of the day we have to try and give everything until the end of the season, and we'll see how it goes."
Madrid swooped for Adebayor after recently losing Gonzalo Higuain, their top scorer for the last two league campaigns, to a back injury that could keep the Argentina international sidelined for up to four months.
That left coach Mourinho with just Karim Benzema as his only recognised centre-forward, and the Frenchman has found himself under pressure following a disappointing time with the Spanish giants since his big-money move from Lyon in 2009.
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The competition for playing time between Adebayor and Benzema - who has scored the winning goal in Madrid's last two matches against Real Mallorca and Sevilla - was a hot topic during Thursday's presentation, but Adebayor was full of praise for his fellow forward and insists he can play alongside the France international.
"I had a chance to know Karim in France when he played for Lyon and for me he's a fantastic player with a good attitude and I know him very well off the pitch as well. And for me I think he's doing quite well at the minute, he's lost a bit of confidence but he'll be back and as we can see he scored a great goal yesterday (against Sevilla)
"I'm not here to replace anybody. I'm just here to play my football and enjoy myself. I can play with Benzema, I can play with Higuain in the future if he comes back.
"I'm not here to kick him (Benzema) out, we are both here to win and we know that Real Madrid is a wonderful club that needs those victories.
"We are strikers and we are playing to do our best for the team and we want to win all the prizes that this club deserves."
 
Birmingham yaifuata Arsenal fainali Thursday, 27 January 2011 21:00

LONDON, England
BIRMINGHAM imepata tiketi ya kucheza fainali ya Kombe la Ligi kwa kuizabua West Ham 3-1 baada ya muda wa nyongeza na sasa itakutana na Arsenal katika mechi ya fainali.

Craig Gardner alikuwa shujaa wa Birmingham baada ya kufunga bao la umbali wa mita 25 dakika nne za muda wa nyongeza na kuifanya timu hiyo ya Midlands kupata ushindi wa mabao 4-3 na kukata tiketi ya Wembley. Mechi hiyo ilipigwa kwenye Uwanja wa St. Andrew,

"Huwezi kuamini, ni kama ndoto," Gardner alisema. "Nimezungumza na wachezaji wenzangu, nilitaka tufanye kitu ambacho hatukukitarajia na sasa yamekuwa."

Carlton Cole alifunga bao katika dakika ya 31 na kuifanya West Ham kuwa mbele kwa mabao 3-1 kabla ya Lee Bowyer na Roger Johnson kufunga mabao ya kusawazisha.

The Blues, ambao hawakuwahi kutwaa ubingwa wa Kombe la Ligi tangu mwaka 1963, watakuwa na kazi ya kuilaza Arsenal katika mechi ya fainali hapo Februari 27.

Arsenal ilifuzu fainali hiyo baada ya kuilaza Ipswich mabao 3-0 na kuibanjua nje timu hiyo kwa jumla ya mabao 3-1.
 
Tisa zasubiri wenza Ligi ya Mabingwa Afrika Thursday, 27 January 2011 21:00

ACCRA, Ghana
TIMU tisa za Afrika zitakuwa zikisubiri klabu nyingine zifuzu hatua ya awali ya michuano ya Ligi ya Mabingwa Afrika, kindumbwendumbwe kitakachopigwa mwishoni mwa wiki katika viwanja mbalimbali ya Afrika.

Hata hivyo, licha ya mechi za kesho, timu hizo zitakuwa na uhakika wa kucheza na wapinzani wao baada ya Februari kati ya 11 na 13.

Watakaokuwa wanasubiri ni pamoja na mabingwa watetezi, TP Mazembe ya DR Congo, E.S. Setif (Algeria), Al Ahly (Misri), El Ittihad (Libya), Stade Malien (Mali), El Hilal na El-Merreikh zote za Sudan, Esperance (Tunisia) na Dynamos ya Zimbabwe.

Ukiacha hayo, baadhi ya klabu zinaweza kupata wepesi kutokana na wapinzani wao kutokuwa wa kutisha ikiwemo timu za Afrika Kusini, lakini baadhi ya timu zitakuwa zikitumia msuli ziweze kujitengenezea mazingira.

SuperSport United ya Afrika Kusini ni miongoni mwa timu zitakazokuwa na kazi nyepesi kwani itakutana na mabingwa wa Lesotho, Matlama mchezo utakaofanyika kwenye Uwanja wa Poloukwane Afrika Kusini na marudiano baadaye nchini Lesotho, moja ya nchi iliyozungukwa na Afrika Kusini.

Mabingwa wa Senegal, Diaraf Dakar, Enyimba na Kano Pillars za Nigeria pamoja na Wydad Casablanca wanatakiwa kufanya kazi ya ziada kulinda heshima yao kwa mechi hizo za mwishoni mwa wiki. Kwa kawaida, mechi za kwanza zimekuwa zikitoa sura pana ya timu kuendelea ama la.
 
TFF, klabu kujadili maazimio ya Bagamoyo
Thursday, 27 January 2011 21:02

Clara Alphonce
SHIRIKISHO la Soka Tanzania, TFF, limesema kuwa limepanga kukutana na klabu zote 12 zinazoshiriki Ligi Kuu ya Bara kwa ajili ya kupitia maazimio ya Bagamoyo.

TFF, na klabu pamoja na Shirikisho la Soka la Kimataifa, FIFA, walikutana na klabu hizo mwaka juzi na kukubaliana mambo kadhaa ambayo yalitakiwa kutekelezwa na klabu kwa ajili ya maendeleo ya soka.

Moja ya maazimio ambayo walikubaliani ni kila klabu kuwa na makatibu, maafisa habari pamoja na wahazini wa kuajiriwa kwa ajili ya kufanya klabu hizo kwenda na wakati kwa kila mtu kufanya kazi yake.

Pia walikubaliana klabu zote kufanya ukaguzi wa akaunti zao kwa ajili ya kuwawezesha wadhamini kuwekeza katika klabu hizo pamoja na kila klabu kuwa na uwanja wake wa kufanyia mazoezi ambao unajulikana kuliko kuhamahama.

Katibu Mkuu wa TFF, Angetile Osiah alisema jana kuwa wamepanga kukutana na klabu hizo wiki ijayo kuzungumzia hayo na kutathimi maazimio hayo ya Bagamoyo na kuona wamefikia wapi.

Alisema kwa kuwa walishapanga kuwa mwaka huu ndio utakuwa mwisho wa malengo hayo basi pia watapanga mikakati ya kuakikisha wanafanikiwa kwa kila klabu kutimiza malengo hayo.
 
Oljoro JKT, Morani zatangulia Tanga 9 Bora
Thursday, 27 January 2011 21:01

Neema Kimaro, DACICO
TIMU ya soka ya maafande wa Oljoro JKT Arusha imeondoka mkoa Pwani ilipokuwa imeweka kambi yake kwa ajili ya maandalizi ya kujiweka tayari kushiriki fainali za ligi Daraja la Kwanza hatua ya 9Bora zinazotarajia kuanza kutimua vumbi lake mkoani Tanga kuanzia Januari 30 hadi Februari 22 mwaka huu.

Katibu wa timu hiyo, Alex Mwamgaya aliliambia Mwananchi jana kwa simu kuwa timu hiyo imeondoka mkoani Pwani kwa basi kwenda mkaoni Tanga kushiriki fainali hizo na jumla ya msafara wa watu 31 kati yao ni wachezaji 24 na viongozi saba wa timu hiyo.

Alisema katika michezo hiyo waliocheza timu hiyo ilishinda michezo miwili kati ya Ruvu Shooting U-20 kwa bao 1-0 na Ruvu Stars kwa mabao 2-1 na kutoka sare ya bao 1-1 dhidi ya Ruvu Shooting.

Timu hiyo itacheza mchezo wake wa kwanza kwenye fainali za ligi hiyo na Morani FC ya Manyara Jumatatu kwenye Uwanja wa Mkwakwani na kuahidi kuwa timu hiyo itaibuka na ushindi kwenye mchezo huo.

Naye Calvin Kiwia anaripoti kuwa Morani ya Manyara inaondoka leo kwenda Tanga kwa ajili ya kushiriki fainali za ligi Daraja la Kwanza zinazotarajia kuanza kutimua vumbi keshokutwa kwenye uwanja wa Mkwakwani.

Katibu Mkuu wa timu hiyo, Ahmed Muya aliiambia Mwananchi jana kwa simu kuwa timu hiyo itaondoka mkoani Manyara leo asubuhi kuelekea Tanga na jumla ya watu 28 wakiwemo wachezaji 24 na viongozi wanne.

"Tumejipanga vyema kuhakikisha tunaenda kufanya vizuri kwenye fainali hizo na kuwa kati ya moja kati ya timu nne ambazo zitapanda kushiriki ligi kuu msimu ujao," alisema Muya.

"Maandalizi tumefanya ya kutosha na wachezaji wote wako kwenye hali nzuri ya kiushindani, tunafikiri tutafanya yale yote wakazi wa Manyara waliyokusudia timu yao ikafanye," alisisitiza.

Morani FC itashuka dimbani Januari 31 Jumatatu kupambana na majirani zao maafande wa Oljoro JKT ya Arusha kwenye uwanja wa Mkwakwani Tanga.
 
Reina relishing Reds' run-in




Updated Jan 28, 2011 8:23 AM ET
Jose Reina believes Liverpool are in for an "exciting" second half of the season - providing they beat Stoke in their next game at Anfield.
Sat., Jan. 22​
Wolves 0-3 Liverpool |Recap
Arsenal 3-0 Wigan | Recap
Everton 2-2 West Ham | Recap
Man Utd 5-0 Birmingham | Recap
Newcastle 1-1 Tottenham | Recap
Fulham 2-0 Stoke City | Recap
Blackpool 1-2 Sunderland | Recap
Aston Villa 1-0 Man City | Recap
Sun., Jan. 23​
Blackburn 2-0 West Brom | Recap
Mon., Jan. 24​
Bolton 0-4 Chelsea | Recap
Tue., Jan. 25​
Blackpool 2-3 Man Utd | Recap
Wigan 1-2 Aston Villa | Recap
Wed., Jan. 26​
Liverpool 1-0 Fulham | Recap BPL Scores | Table | Fixtures

Contrasting victories over Wolves and Fulham have lifted the Reds into seventh in the Premier League, their highest position all season after the worst start since 1953/54.
They are now only six points behind fifth-placed Tottenham and Reina believes they can look ahead to the rest of the campaign with confidence.
"It's an exciting time and we still have half of the season remaining so there are a lot of points at stake," he said.
"We want to get as high as we possibly can in the league. It is really competitive and we have to keep this up.
"And we still have the Europa League to come (Liverpool face Sparta Prague in the last 32)."
After successive wins and clean sheets Liverpool have a weekend off because of the FA Cup - which they exited at Manchester United 24 hours after Kenny Dalglish replaced Roy Hodgson.
But although the squad will be given time off to recover from a run of seven games in 26 days Reina knows they cannot afford to allow their momentum to stall.
It is therefore crucial they get a result when Stoke visit Anfield on Wednesday, especially with a trip to Chelsea coming the following Sunday.
"We will enjoy some time with our family and then it is back to work to get ready for the next game," he told the Reds' official website.
"Our target is another three points against Stoke.
"It is always a tough game and it's always a nightmare to face the (Rory Delap) long throw which is one of their main strengths.
"But we will only worry about our own strengths and worry what we do."
The week between games may give midfielders Lucas Leiva and Jay Spearing enough time to overcome injuries.
Lucas missed the win over Fulham because of a hamstring strain while Spearing has a small fracture of a bone in his foot.
Neither is expected to be sidelined for long, with Dalglish admitting they could have been pressed into action against the Cottagers had it been entirely necessary.
"Lucas may have been able to play but I didn't think it was worth it and there was there was no point because we have Christian Poulsen to fill in there," he said.
"Jay could also have played but there was no point in risking him because if it got worse he would be out for six to eight weeks so we tried to minimise the amount of time they will be out."
 
Niang would relish Reds move




Updated Jan 28, 2011 9:38 AM ET
Fenerbahce forward Mamadou Niang says he is flattered to be linked with Liverpool and would find it "fantastic" to play for them.
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Niang has been in fine form for Fener this season, scoring nine league goals in 15 matches, and various reports in Africa suggest Kenny Dalglish has made him a transfer target.
The 31-year-old Senegal international, formerly of Troyes, Strasbourg and Marseille, says it would be a privilege to play for Liverpool but claims he is still bound to his current club.
"It is flattering to hear the interest of Liverpool, they are a fantastic club with a rich tradition, one of the most amazing clubs in the world," he said.
"We all know the anthem of the Kop, it would be fantastic, but I have a contract here and it depends a lot on the club here in Turkey.
"But it would be a great opportunity at my age to play for a very very big club."
Niang, who can play as either a striker, support striker or winger, moved to Fenerbahce for eight million euros (£6.9m) in August from Marseille.
Liverpool are trying to strengthen their squad for the second half of the campaign and have rejected a big-money offer from Chelsea for Fernando Torres.
 
Bremen foiled in Kranjcar bid






Updated Jan 28, 2011 9:58 AM ET
Werder Bremen have not been able to agree a deal to bring in Niko Kranjcar from Tottenham, their general manager Klaus Allofs has revealed.
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Allofs has confirmed that Bremen were keen to land Kranjcar, but their pursuit was unsuccessful.
Kranjcar has had limited opportunities to impress at White Hart Lane this season but Allofs has suggested that Spurs are eager to keep him as they plan ahead for a busy schedule.
"We have been looking at the chance to bring in this player," Allofs told Deutsche Presseagentur with regard to Kranjcar.
"Anyway, we were unable to materialise a deal at the very end. There was a chance to do that, but obviously the player's club did not want to risk the chance to go far in the Champions League as well as in the league."
Allofs added: "We will keep monitoring the chance to sign new players. We intend to find solutions, we want to improve. I am still in talks with player agents."
Kranjcar is under contract until June 2013 but Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp recently admitted he would be prepared to let the 26-year-old go as he wants to leave.
 
Benfica: Luiz sale is off


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Updated Jan 28, 2011 10:56 AM ET
Benfica have issued a statement to the Portuguese stock exchange saying they have called off talks with Chelsea over defender David Luiz.
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The two clubs have been locked in negotiations for the past week, and they had looked very close to striking a deal.
It is understood the main stumbling block has been how any transfer would be paid for, and now Benfica have seemingly decided to end the talks.
They have issued a statement on Friday which read: "Negotiations between Benfica and Chelsea FC, with a view to the possible transfer of David Luiz, were concluded today without the parties reaching an agreement.
"Benfica is happy to keep a player with the quality and morality of David Luiz.
"Contrary to what some reports have suggested in recent days, David Luiz never tried to force a move, he is a model professional, and worthy of the shirt."
 
Friedel undecided on future




Updated Jan 28, 2011 4:21 AM ET
Brad Friedel will become the oldest player to ever represent Aston Villa next week but is yet to decide if he will play beyond the summer.
Friedel will surpass the record of 39 years and 257 days set by Ernie Callaghan in 1947 if he plays against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday.
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He is out of contract in the summer and manager Gerard Houllier indicated earlier in the season that he would hold talks on Friedel's future at Villa in February.
But the American will know in his own mind towards the end of the campaign whether he wants to carry on playing.
He said: "I don't know if it will be a good thing or a bad thing to be the oldest player ever to play for the club.
"I will continue to just keep myself as fit as possible and hopefully be chosen to play football matches.
"Age is a number. I don't think about it. I just go by how I feel. If I feel good and able to play - that makes me happy.
"If the time comes when I don't feel good, and I'm not able to play, I will start looking to do something else.
"As long as I feel good, I will carry on. I will know closer to the end of the season than right now."
Meanwhile, defenders Kyle Walker and Ciaran Clark are poised to return to training after missing the midweek win at Wigan through back and hamstring problems respectively.




 
Hammers wrap up Ba capture






Updated Jan 28, 2011 6:28 AM ET
West Ham have completed the signing of striker Demba Ba from Hoffenheim for an undisclosed fee, which could eventually cost them £7million.
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Keep up with all the biggest moves around the globe with our 2011 January transfer gallery.

The Senegal striker, who announced the transfer on his official website earlier this week, has signed a deal with the Hammers until June 2014.
"We are happy we can close the Demba Ba chapter. After much to-ing and fro-ing this solution is the best for all concerned," Hoffenheim manager Ernst Tanner told their official website.
Ba had earlier this month appeared set for a move to Stoke only for the deal to fall through because of a failed medical.
Ba has scored six goals in 17 games for Hoffenheim this season.
Ba joined the Hammers in training this morning at Chadwell Heath after completing the formalities of his deal.
"It was a long story but now I'm happy because it had a really good end and I am glad to be here," he told West Ham TV.
"I'm going to give everything to West Ham United."
The Hammers have already added to their defence and midfield this month by signing Wayne Bridge and Gary O'Neil, and Ba believes he can provide a boost to the striking department too.
"It's a bit difficult to describe myself, but when I'm on the pitch I just give everything for the team I am playing for and the fans who support me," he said.
"I like playing football, I like to be on the pitch playing good passes with the other guys and running with the ball, rather than playing in a direct style, so I should be able to fit in well at West Ham.
"My aims for the rest of the season are to enjoy my football and give everything I have to give to make people happy.
"I'm really happy that the clubs have reached an agreement. I was eager to join the club and meet my new team-mates.
"I'd like to thank Hoffenheim for allowing me to join this team."
 
Mancini: Hart can be a world beater




8 comments »

Updated Jan 27, 2011 7:19 PM ET
Roberto Mancini has backed Joe Hart to become one of the best goalkeepers in the world - as he long as continues to work at his game.
The Manchester City stopper has enjoyed a swift rise to the top since leaving Shrewsbury for Eastlands in 2006. Hart is the number one for England and also replaced Shay Given in the City side at the start of the season.
Sat., Jan. 22​
Wolves 0-3 Liverpool |Recap
Arsenal 3-0 Wigan | Recap
Everton 2-2 West Ham | Recap
Man Utd 5-0 Birmingham | Recap
Newcastle 1-1 Tottenham | Recap
Fulham 2-0 Stoke City | Recap
Blackpool 1-2 Sunderland | Recap
Aston Villa 1-0 Man City | Recap
Sun., Jan. 23​
Blackburn 2-0 West Brom | Recap
Mon., Jan. 24​
Bolton 0-4 Chelsea | Recap
Tue., Jan. 25​
Blackpool 2-3 Man Utd | Recap
Wigan 1-2 Aston Villa | Recap
Wed., Jan. 26​
Liverpool 1-0 Fulham | Recap BPL Scores | Table | Fixtures

However, his recent performances against Leicester and Aston Villa, where he played a part in Darren Bent's winning goal, have seen the 23-year-old attract some criticism.
City boss Mancini, though, has no doubts about Hart's potential and expects him to go from strength to strength, provided he maintains his focus.
He told Official Manchester City Website | News | Fixtures | Player and latest Transfer Profiles - Manchester City FC "Every player has difficult moments in their career and what he has to do is be strong at this time because when everything is going okay, it is easy for him.
"For a young goalkeeper to receive this criticism is a challenge and he must be strong in the face of it.
"He is always very assured, but it is important to have concentration always. He is improving but I think that he has a chance to improve more because he is young and this is his second year in the first team.
"He can become one of the best goalkeepers in England and the world, but for this to happen he has to want to work and want to improve."
England boss Fabio Capello also weighed into the debate earlier this week, telling Hart he must be switched on for every game.
"He has made mistakes but he is young," said the Italian. "It is important for England that he is able to remain focused in every moment of the game.
"It is difficult to play in a team that spends a lot of money and needs to win. You have to understand that when you play against other teams who are in the middle of the table or lower, this team will play against you and give 110% to beat you.
"For this reason he has to play every time at the top because he has to be focused only on the game."



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  • Report Abuse manutd1107
    • 1/28/2011 8:02:41 AM
    @freedtoo..."I would like to see Given move over to United or another big team contender."

    HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. no contender will go for him. Don't you think if a contender was even remotely interested in him they would have gone for him earlier? He was never a standout in Newcastle. come on be real here. you maybe a fan of his but that comment is just idiotic.
  •  Report Abuse SpidermanItalia
    • 1/27/2011 10:25:38 PM
    Yea that seems fair to both parties...anyone in your academy making noise?...btw that would have been a nice play on words if you went with it hhaha
  •  Report Abuse ManCityhasBANK
    • 1/27/2011 10:10:48 PM
    Spider- apparently Given has been given (no pun intended) the OK to leave once city finds a replacement backup. Hopefully he can find a respectable club to finish out his solid career.
  •  Report Abuse SpidermanItalia
    • 1/27/2011 9:48:40 PM
    Agreed freedtoo Scunthrope needs help at keeper to help stay up in the Championship....don't know if they can afford his wages though. Or if he has an Iron will---get me the tank!
  •  Report Abuse freedtoo
    • 1/27/2011 9:34:24 PM
    I would like to see Given move over to United or another big team contender. He deserves better than sitting on the bench every game, he's too good.
  •  Report Abuse SpidermanItalia
    • 1/27/2011 9:13:11 PM
    England finally has developed a good keeper. Either of you two have any news on Given----I know he can leave if he wants but anything come to fruition>
  •  Report Abuse halnone
    • 1/27/2011 9:05:41 PM
    Hart only cost City 500k. One of the best bargains EVER.
  •  Report Abuse ManCityhasBANK
    • 1/27/2011 6:51:02 PM
    Top class. Period. Hart will become one of England's best reknown keepers, he has proven himself even at such a young age. I guarantee he won't make a 'green'-like mistake if he is put on the international stage.
 
Hammers wrap up Ba capture






Updated Jan 28, 2011 6:28 AM ET
West Ham have completed the signing of striker Demba Ba from Hoffenheim for an undisclosed fee, which could eventually cost them £7million.
TRANSFER SPECIAL

Keep up with all the biggest moves around the globe with our 2011 January transfer gallery.

The Senegal striker, who announced the transfer on his official website earlier this week, has signed a deal with the Hammers until June 2014.
"We are happy we can close the Demba Ba chapter. After much to-ing and fro-ing this solution is the best for all concerned," Hoffenheim manager Ernst Tanner told their official website.
Ba had earlier this month appeared set for a move to Stoke only for the deal to fall through because of a failed medical.
Ba has scored six goals in 17 games for Hoffenheim this season.
Ba joined the Hammers in training this morning at Chadwell Heath after completing the formalities of his deal.
"It was a long story but now I'm happy because it had a really good end and I am glad to be here," he told West Ham TV.
"I'm going to give everything to West Ham United."
The Hammers have already added to their defence and midfield this month by signing Wayne Bridge and Gary O'Neil, and Ba believes he can provide a boost to the striking department too.
"It's a bit difficult to describe myself, but when I'm on the pitch I just give everything for the team I am playing for and the fans who support me," he said.
"I like playing football, I like to be on the pitch playing good passes with the other guys and running with the ball, rather than playing in a direct style, so I should be able to fit in well at West Ham.
"My aims for the rest of the season are to enjoy my football and give everything I have to give to make people happy.
"I'm really happy that the clubs have reached an agreement. I was eager to join the club and meet my new team-mates.
"I'd like to thank Hoffenheim for allowing me to join this team."
 
Messi's magic goes beyond the numbers


​
Messi claims his second straight FIFA player of the year award in Zurich.




Jamie Trecker is a senior soccer writer at FoxSoccer.com. A working journalist for 25 years, he covers the Champions League, European soccer and the world game for FoxSoccer.com.



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Updated Jan 10, 2011 4:24 PM ET
Barcelona's Lionel Messi won FIFA's biggest individual prize Monday, taking the first ever Ballon D'Or award (merged this year with the FIFA World Player of the Year award) to consecrate him as the 2010's best footballer.

No one doubts Messi's greatness. He's currently leading Barcelona to another La Liga title. His weekly battle with Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo for the Golden Boot looks to become one of the classic shootouts in Spanish league history. And his Barcelona team is the odds on favorite to hoist the Champions League trophy.

Lionel Messi and Marta are congratulated by FIFA president Sepp Blatter in Zurich.
Fabrice Coffrini / Getty Images
And yet, Messi didn't do one big thing in 2010.
He failed to lead his team to a World Cup triumph. In fact, Messi didn't score at all for Argentina last summer in South Africa, leading some to wonder if he's fully deserving of the crown. Why not one of his fellow finalists, his Barcelona teammates Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, who led the Spanish team that did win the World Cup? Iniesta, of course, scored the pivotal goal in South Africa to beat Holland in the final.

Let's set that aside for a moment, because Messi's win sets up an age-old question that fans never tire of:

Who do you take, Maradona or Messi?

Messi is almost the antithesis of Maradona, a man who remains the golden boy of the Argentine game.

Maradona was larger than life even before he exploded onto the world stage. He was famously left off the 1978 World Cup championship side because the staff thought he was too young, and would go on to a career that was replete with audacious accomplishments and filled with controversy. From the "Hand of God" to being bounced out of the 1994 World Cup for failing a drugs test, Maradona made headlines as much for his personality as for his undoubted talent.

Messi, in contrast, seems more like a postage stamp, and not just because of his stature. Even as he has matured, the strikingly youthful Messi relies on stealth as he glides past opponents, passes with artistic precision and scores almost at will. He's not outspoken; he's part of a fast-moving and brilliant machine.
FOX SPORTS POLL


  • Who deserved the 2010 Golden Ball award most?
    • Lionel Messi
    • Xavi
    • Andres Iniesta
    • Wesley Sneijder

The fact is that those who say that because Messi couldn't work the same magic with Argentina he somehow doesn't deserve this award, are missing the point. Messi did almost everything right in South Africa but even the best player in the world cannot both lead the orchestra and play second violin. At Barcelona, Messi is part of a system. With Argentina he was supposed to be both the pattern and the product. That's both thankless and impossible.

Yes, Messi has profited from being surrounded by stars in Barcelona, but he usually manages to outshine even that cast. His numbers are remarkable.
Last year, Messi scored 60 goals for club and country in 2010, with 42 of those in league play. But mere numbers don't describe the way Messi plays. He is two steps ahead of everyone in thought and sometimes two steps ahead of them for pace, as well.
He is so good at creating space for himself that it takes two or three defenders to contain him anywhere near the 18-yard line. If he is not the master of the free kick that Maradona was, Messi comes close to matching his legendary predecessor when it comes to scoring memorable goals.

What's makes the man special is the same thing that made Maradona so magnificent: Messi's ability to do something completely outrageous and make it look ordinary. That's why the Diego defenders -- and they are legion -- can mount their case that nothing Maradona did off the field should diminish what he did between the lines. And it is also why many think Messi has surpassed the icon, because they can say that Messi has done things even Maradona couldn't somehow conjure.
The home of the best LIVE soccer and rugby awaits at FoxSoccer.tv -- don't miss a second of the action.

Like Xavi and Iniesta -- and either would have been a worthy winner -- Messi stands up to the demands of the modern schedule and continues to make us catch our breath with what he can deliver.

Consider that this year's Ballon D'Or winner makes us argue about brilliance, not numbers. Consider also that with Messi's selection we can talk about the best men who ever played the game, not merely the best in a given year.

Is all of that enough to settle the arguments? Of course not. But what true fan would have it any other way?
Jamie Trecker is a senior writer for FoxSoccer.com covering the UEFA Champions League and European football.
 
Messi's magic goes beyond the numbers


​
Messi claims his second straight FIFA player of the year award in Zurich.




Jamie Trecker is a senior soccer writer at FoxSoccer.com. A working journalist for 25 years, he covers the Champions League, European soccer and the world game for FoxSoccer.com.



PRINT
RSS



Updated Jan 10, 2011 4:24 PM ET
Barcelona’s Lionel Messi won FIFA’s biggest individual prize Monday, taking the first ever Ballon D'Or award (merged this year with the FIFA World Player of the Year award) to consecrate him as the 2010’s best footballer.

No one doubts Messi’s greatness. He’s currently leading Barcelona to another La Liga title. His weekly battle with Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo for the Golden Boot looks to become one of the classic shootouts in Spanish league history. And his Barcelona team is the odds on favorite to hoist the Champions League trophy.

Lionel Messi and Marta are congratulated by FIFA president Sepp Blatter in Zurich.
Fabrice Coffrini / Getty Images
And yet, Messi didn’t do one big thing in 2010.
He failed to lead his team to a World Cup triumph. In fact, Messi didn’t score at all for Argentina last summer in South Africa, leading some to wonder if he’s fully deserving of the crown. Why not one of his fellow finalists, his Barcelona teammates Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, who led the Spanish team that did win the World Cup? Iniesta, of course, scored the pivotal goal in South Africa to beat Holland in the final.

Let’s set that aside for a moment, because Messi’s win sets up an age-old question that fans never tire of:

Who do you take, Maradona or Messi?

Messi is almost the antithesis of Maradona, a man who remains the golden boy of the Argentine game.

Maradona was larger than life even before he exploded onto the world stage. He was famously left off the 1978 World Cup championship side because the staff thought he was too young, and would go on to a career that was replete with audacious accomplishments and filled with controversy. From the "Hand of God" to being bounced out of the 1994 World Cup for failing a drugs test, Maradona made headlines as much for his personality as for his undoubted talent.

Messi, in contrast, seems more like a postage stamp, and not just because of his stature. Even as he has matured, the strikingly youthful Messi relies on stealth as he glides past opponents, passes with artistic precision and scores almost at will. He’s not outspoken; he’s part of a fast-moving and brilliant machine.
FOX SPORTS POLL


  • Who deserved the 2010 Golden Ball award most?
    • Lionel Messi
    • Xavi
    • Andres Iniesta
    • Wesley Sneijder

The fact is that those who say that because Messi couldn't work the same magic with Argentina he somehow doesn’t deserve this award, are missing the point. Messi did almost everything right in South Africa but even the best player in the world cannot both lead the orchestra and play second violin. At Barcelona, Messi is part of a system. With Argentina he was supposed to be both the pattern and the product. That’s both thankless and impossible.

Yes, Messi has profited from being surrounded by stars in Barcelona, but he usually manages to outshine even that cast. His numbers are remarkable.
Last year, Messi scored 60 goals for club and country in 2010, with 42 of those in league play. But mere numbers don't describe the way Messi plays. He is two steps ahead of everyone in thought and sometimes two steps ahead of them for pace, as well.
He is so good at creating space for himself that it takes two or three defenders to contain him anywhere near the 18-yard line. If he is not the master of the free kick that Maradona was, Messi comes close to matching his legendary predecessor when it comes to scoring memorable goals.

What's makes the man special is the same thing that made Maradona so magnificent: Messi’s ability to do something completely outrageous and make it look ordinary. That's why the Diego defenders -- and they are legion -- can mount their case that nothing Maradona did off the field should diminish what he did between the lines. And it is also why many think Messi has surpassed the icon, because they can say that Messi has done things even Maradona couldn't somehow conjure.
The home of the best LIVE soccer and rugby awaits at FoxSoccer.tv -- don't miss a second of the action.

Like Xavi and Iniesta -- and either would have been a worthy winner -- Messi stands up to the demands of the modern schedule and continues to make us catch our breath with what he can deliver.

Consider that this year’s Ballon D’Or winner makes us argue about brilliance, not numbers. Consider also that with Messi’s selection we can talk about the best men who ever played the game, not merely the best in a given year.

Is all of that enough to settle the arguments? Of course not. But what true fan would have it any other way?
Jamie Trecker is a senior writer for FoxSoccer.com covering the UEFA Champions League and European football.
 
Gera seeking Cottagers exit




0 comments »

Updated Jan 18, 2011 7:15 AM ET
17/01/2011 22:54 +0100

The Hungary international has not played as regularly as he would have liked this season and is now starting to consider other options with his contract set to expire in the summer. He admits it is flattering to have recently been linked with Greek giants Panathinaikos but is not sure whether anyone will lodge a bid for his services during the current transfer window. "My situation is tougher than ever. I don't feel good and I play rarely," Gera is quoted as telling Hungarian daily Nemzeti Sport. "But football is like this. One moment everything is nice and in the next moment you get a cold shower. "The turning point was Mark Hughes' arrival. I don't want to complain, because I accept that the manager puts the team together according to his own ideas. "I also accept that he chooses other players instead of me, but when I'm sent onto the pitch I try to do my best in order to prove that I haven't forgotten how to play football. "I want nothing more than to play but I can see I have less and less chance for this here at Fulham. "I like the club and the city very much but I don't think it is impossible that I will leave and I'll continue my career at another club. "If I have the chance I'll leave but at the moment I don't have these possibilities. "My contract will expire this summer and there's an option for the extension but I'm not sure if it will be validated or not. "The last time I talked about it with my bosses was last summer." Gera would prefer to stay in England but admits he would be prepared to consider a new challenge in a foreign league. "I would like to stay in England but playing in another country may be another possibility too," he explained. "From what I experienced in Europe last year in the Europa League I believe that in a new place, in another culture of football, I could discover new ways of being successful." Reacting to the speculation oncerning Panathinaikos, Gera insisted he was not taking much notice of any transfer talk at this stage. He said: "I've heard about the interest of Panathinaikos and it's good to hear you're linked with a famous club like this."
 
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