A Different League

Tottenham news - Unlucky number 13 for Gallas, Boro monitor Cudicini, Toshack reveals Bale bid

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:07:37 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Tottenham. Today:

Unlucky number 13 for Gallas.

It has been confirmed by the Daily Mail that William Gallas will wear the number 13 shirt this season. Gallas wore the unlucky number at Chelsea before he was stripped of the shirt by Jose Mourinho, after he failed to attend a pre-season training camp in Los Angeles. Tottenham’s other summer signings have also been given their new numbers - Rafael Van der Vaart will wear 11, Brazilian midfielder Sandro, 30, a

Chelsea news - Spartak want Zhirkov, Lampard very happy to be playing for Chelsea, Capello not worried about Lampard and Terry

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:03:54 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Chelsea. Today:

Spartak want Zhirkov.

According to The Daily Mail, Yuri Zhirkov could be given a route out of Chelsea by their Champions League group stage opponents Spartak Moscow. The Russian, who can play left-back or left-wing, has only made 17 appearances since his £18m move from CSKA Moscow last season. His Blues career has been in the main part hampered by injuries to both knees and Russia boss Dick Advoccaat warned him last week that he faces losin

Arsenal news - Wenger set for Q&A session, Sagna denies French captaincy, Dixon backs Walcott

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:59:17 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Arsenal. Today:

Wenger set for Q&A session.

Arsene Wenger is set to face a grilling by Arsenal shareholders and fans after agreeing to hold a Q&A session with them on September 16, according to Goal.com. The last time Wenger arranged such a session it ended in near-disaster, following some questions and comments Wenger described as “disgraceful.” Fans are likely to want to know exactly why Arsenal failed to land a new goalkeeper despite possessing the fina

Newcastle news - Carroll asked to keep feet on ground, Campbell still holds England desire, No loan deals fro youngsters

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:53:37 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Newcastle. Today:

Carroll asked to keep feet on ground.

Hotshot striker Andy Carroll has been asked to keep his feet on the ground and not get over excited by his blistering start to the season, the Newcastle Journal reports. Manager Chris Hughton is pleased with Carroll’s progress, who has scored four goals in three games at the start of the season, but he does not want the striker to lose focus. Hughton said: “Andy is a striker and the one thing you know

Man City news - Benjani slams City, Ibra suggests City interest, Toure tips Adebayor to shine

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:48:06 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Manchester City. Today:

Benjani slams City.

Benjani has joined Martin Petrov and Stephen Ireland in firing a parting shot at ex-employers Man City, the Telegraph reports. The Zimbabwean striker has claimed that there is no trust behind the scenes at Eastlands and that he is happy to resume his career somewhere else. Benjani said: “It seemed like, behind the scenes at Manchester City, there is no trust. When I say there is no trust, if you look back to last year, they bo

Liverpool news - Carragher pleads for good Owen reception, Queiroz: Meireles will be a hit, Barca reveal Mascherano fee

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:43:33 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Liverpool. Today:

Carragher pleads for good Owen reception.

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has pleaded with the Anfield crowd not to subject former Kop favourite Michael Owen to a chorus of boos during the charity match this weekend. Carragher wants his testimonial game to pass peacefully despite the presence of Manchester United striker Owen, who was given a hostile reception on his return to Merseyside last season. Owen, 30, scored 158 goals in 297 mat

Manchester United news - Capello backs Rooney, Giggs delighted with squad quality, United warned over fan-base

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:38:24 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Man Utd. Today:

Capello backs Rooney.

Fabio Capello has promised Wayne Rooney will return to form in style. Talking to The Daily Mail Capello assured England, and Manchester United fans: “I monitored him during the last game that he played against West Ham. Rooney runs a lot around the pitch, he's free to move where he decides to go. Rooney will play tomorrow in style.” Rooney endured a torrid World Cup with Capello's England. Playing through the pain of a

Manchester United Player Focus – Wayne Rooney

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:38:26 GMT

This summer’s World Cup was meant to be the platform where Wayne Rooney would showcase his talents in front of a global audience, where he would brush aside the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo and demonstrate to everyone just how brilliant he is. Ever since that goal he scored against David Seaman at the age of 16, Rooney has had the pressure of a nation on his shoulders. He is the one contemporary player who has that unique ability and natural confidence, which very few players from these shores have had since Paul Gascoigne. Although it looks like he will be a

Liverpool news - Mascherano anger over lies, Konchesky wants Reds glory, Reds name reduced 21-man squad

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:01:07 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Liverpool. Today:

Mascherano anger over lies.

Argentina captain Javier Mascherano has hit out at his former club Liverpool, over the lies which prompted his move away from Anfield. The defensive midfielder took a pay-cut to secure a dream move to Barcelona earlier this week, after a long drawn transfer saga. The Guardian reveals Mascherano’s feelings as he said: “They'd promised me something for a whole year and they never fulfilled their promise. And that

Tottenham news - Van der Vaart excited by Spurs challenge, Keane rejected Besiktas move, Woodgate left out of 25-man squad

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:56:40 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Tottenham. Today:

Van der Vaart excited by Spurs challenge.

Rafael Van der Vaart has told The Mail he is looking forward to a beautiful future with Tottenham Hotspur after the club convinced the Premier League the deal had been completed before the transfer window closed on Tuesday evening. Spurs paid £8.7m for the Dutch playmaker and is set to make his debut against West Bromwich Albion after the Euro 2012 qualifiers have been played. He told reporters: “

Chelsea news - Essien hungry for success, Mourinho tried to sign Drogba, Bruma’s new deal

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:52:36 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Chelsea. Today:

Essien hungry for success.

Chelsea’s Michael Essien believes his team could finally lift the Champions League this season. According to Sky Sports, the midfielder, who has started all the Blues games this season after two injury ravished years, declared: “As a player, you get the inner feeling that something big is around the corner and I feel the same way I felt last season when we won the double. However, I am sure we can go one further

Man City news - Shock inclusions in 25-man squad, Barry wants winter break, Petrov’s parting shot

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:46:48 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Manchester City. Today:

Shock inclusions in 25-man squad.

Man City announced their 25-man squad yesterday and the surprise inclusions are the forward pair of Jo and Roque Santa Cruz. They were thought to be on the exclusion list due to limited numbers at Eastlands, but the departures of Robinho to AC Milan, Felipe Caicedo to Levante on a season long loan and Craig Bellamy to Cardiff on a season long loan allow Jo and Santa Cruz to be part of the squad. Players under the

Newcastle news - Campbell ready for first team action, 25-man squad announced, Hughton happy with squad

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:41:31 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Newcastle. Today:

Campbell ready for first team action.

Newcastle United defender Sol Campbell is looking to make his first team debut against Blackpool in the game after the international break, BBC Sport reports. The game is on September 11 and Campbell only played 45 minutes of Newcastle’s reserve game against Sunderland on Tuesday night, but the 35 year old maintains he will be ready. Campbell said: “I'm going to work towards that, that's going to be t

Arsenal news - Squad named, Gunners move for Japanese youngster, Nasri on verge of return

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:36:23 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Arsenal. Today:

Premier League squad named.

Arsenal have named seven ‘home-grown’ players in their 20-man squad for this season's Premier League, according to Goal.com. Regulations state a minimum of eight must be named in each club's 25-man squad, but as Arsenal have named only 20 they are permitted to include less. Players under the age of 21 do not need to be named in the squad as they can be included any time, hence why players such as Theo Walcott and

Manchester United news - United squad announced, Rio regaining fitness, United Bebe gamble exposed

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:29:32 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Man Utd. Today:

Hargreaves in squad.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has included Owen Hargreaves in his 25-man Premier League squad. Some reports suggested that the former Bayern Munich man was not going to get a place due to his horrific injury record at Old Trafford. Even yesterday Ferguson said he was still unsure on the midfielder who has not started a game for United since September 2008. The England international will now be looking to g

Liverpool Player Focus - Raúl Meireles

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:40:00 GMT

There was a strangeness about the arrival of Raúl Meireles on Merseyside four days ago. Unusually for the modern transfer market, the deal was conducted swiftly and quietly, with none of the haggling or agent-wrangling which has become almost customary for high-profile signings. Scarcely twenty-four hours after Javier Mascherano completed his protracted move away from Anfield, the 27-year old Meireles completed his switch in the opposite direction, for a fee of around £10.7m. However, despite being a well-established player, in England at least, Meireles is not all that w

Arsenal Player Focus - Robin van Persie

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:32:55 GMT

Robin van Persie lasted just 34 minutes into his first start of the season before being forced off with yet another injury. It is a huge blow for the Netherlands forward, as he only came back from a serious injury the end of last season. The Dutch star enjoyed a good World Cup, featuring in every game en route to the final, only to lose out to Spain.

Despite having only played for half an hour, the Dutch maestro stamped his mark on the game, as his through ball to Theo Walcott set up the opening goal of the game. As he and his teammate Cesc Fabregas were given

Chelsea Player Focus - Yury Zhirkov

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:58:56 GMT

After an excellent 2008 European Championship with Russia, Yury Zhirkov arrived in England as Carlo Ancelotti’s first major signing as Chelsea boss, joining for a fee of £18m. Comfortable being deployed anywhere on the left-hand side of the pitch, Zhirkov provided the strength in depth the Blues’ needed last term whilst Solomon Kalou was at the African Cup of Nations and Ashley Cole missed the latter stages of the campaign due to a fractured ankle.

The 27-year-old has been bound to the substitutes’ bench so far this season, particularly due to the form of Cole a

From part-worns to payday loans - a potted history of football shirt sponsorship

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:44:45 GMT

From part-worns to payday loans, football shirt sponsorship has had a colourful past – but it has never been as profitable to top flight clubs as it is today! Premier League clubs will pull in close to £100m in shirt sponsorship this season, so it’s no surprise that sponsor’s logos have become as much a part of kit design as the club crest. But this hasn’t always been the case, so before we look at the figures, let’s make sure you know your history…

The 1970’s

Many people credit Liverpool with the honour of being the first English club to have their shirts endorsed

Blackpool take a punt on Wycombe's Matt Phillips

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:18:24 GMT

Although there was no drama to compete with the likes of Dimitar Berbatov's midnight move to Old Trafford and other eye catching deadline day deals, some clubs certainly have reason to be happy with their summer transfer activity. One particular last minute deal to stand out for the Football League would be the transfer of England U19 wideman Matt Phillips from League Two Wycombe to Premiership newcomers Blackpool.

This writer has had the pleasure of watching Phillips on a number of occasions; his willingness to take on the opposition defence and whip in a cros

Rochdale star Dawson gets Premier League chance with West Brom

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:14:46 GMT

Rochdale’s highly-rated young defender Craig Dawson has signed for Premier League outfit West Bromwich Albion for an undisclosed fee, and the defender has deserved his dream move to the Premier League.

Dawson, who made the switch to the Midlands club on transfer deadline day, only made his professional debut last season after Rochdale manager Keith Hill signed the promising youngster from non-league outfit Radcliffe Rovers in February 2009 on a two-year-deal, spending the rest of that season on loan at the Unibond League side. Whilst with Radcliffe Rovers, Dawso

Torquay United - Surprise early pacesetters in League Two

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:13:42 GMT

After a mediocre return to the Football League last year, Torquay United have been the surprise leaders at this very early stage in the season.

Torquay spent most of last season battling relegation, but an impressive end to the campaign saw the Gulls earn a safe lower-mid-table finish in their first season back in League Two, since finishing bottom of the league’s basement division in 2007 that ended their 80 year stay in the Football League. Torquay finished last season with six wins and two draws, ensuring their League status. Four games into this season and t

Arsenal news - Almunia to stay 1st teamer, Walcott responds to critics, Gunners 'keeper in England action

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:33:44 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Arsenal. Today:

Walcott responds to critics.

Theo Walcott has stated that he wishes to answer his critics by doing his talking on the pitch. The 21-year-old has had an impressive start to the new season, but that was not enough to prevent criticism, notably from Alan Hansen on Match of the Day. The former Southampton player scored a hat-trick against Blackpool last weekend, and has recently been recalled to the England squad after missing out on the World

Liverpool news - Reds Cole and Pav bids rejected, Torres wants new owners, Insua joins Galatasaray

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 12:48:01 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Liverpool. Today:

Torres wants new owners.

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has reiterated the fact that the club need new owners quickly if they are to compete for trophies, according to ESPN. The Spanish forward is desperate to win a competition with his side, however a lack of financial backing from the American owners is stopping them from competing with the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea for the Premier League title. Torres, whose Anfield fut

Man City news - Santa Cruz stuck at City, List of City sales, Robinho makes Milan move

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 12:37:55 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Manchester City. Today:

Robinho makes Milan move.

Manchester City completed the sale of Brazilian forward Robinho to AC Milan for a undisclosed fee, BBC Sport reports. Robinho had a medical last night, joining the Rossoneri on a four year deal. A statement from AC Milan’s official website read: “AC Milan announces it has acquired Robinho on a permanent deal from Manchester City.” The fee is rumoured to be a cut of the £32.4 million City paid Real Madrid for the forward’

Chelsea news - Begiristain new director of football, Terry injury latest, Transfer day round-up

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 11:57:29 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Chelsea. Today:

Transfer day round-up.

It was a quiet deadline day for Chelsea with no new signings arriving at the club. The only action the Londoner’s were involved in was Franco Di Santo’s move to Wigan. The striker’s £2m transfer to the Latic’s had been widely expected and he reportedly has joined the club on a three-year deal.

Begiristain new director of football.

According to Vital Football Chelsea could be set to make Tx

Tottenham news - Van der Vaart: "I can hardly believe it", Sandro talks on Spurs move, Gudjohnsen joins Stoke

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 11:42:53 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Tottenham. Today:

Van der Vaart: "I can hardly believe it".

Tottenham Hotspur are still unsure if they have secured the services of Rafael Van der Vaart despite the transfer window closing yesterday. Harry Redknapp was only made aware of the Dutchman’s availability late on deadline day but was quick to put a deal in motion. Spurs have offered the midfielder a contract worth €11 million over four years and it is understood he is ready and willing to take up

Newcastle news - Campbell plays, Carroll injured, LuaLua makes exit

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 11:37:35 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Newcastle. Today:

Campbell plays.

Newcastle defender Sol Campbell had his first run out for his new side in a reserve team fixture against rivals Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, the Daily Mail reports. Sunderland fans taunted Campbell with overweight jibes throughout the game, but Campbell had the last laugh as his Newcastle side picked up the win. Campbell said after the game: “I was a bit blowy for the first 10 minutes, but it soon comes back to you

Man Utd news - Hargreaves to learn future, Utd and Rangers in security talks, Cleverly makes exit

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 11:32:12 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Man Utd. Today:

Cleverly makes exit.

Transfer deadline day brought no new additions to the Manchester United squad but Tom Cleverly did finally secure a move to Wigan Athletic. The England under-21 star has been at the centre of transfer speculation all summer with a number of Premier League clubs keeping tabs on the midfielder’s situation. United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was in two minds all summer whether or not to let the 21 year-old out on loan, but h

Pardew dismissal raises worrying questions at Southampton

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 08:57:25 GMT

While most Southampton fans come to terms with the rather unceremonious dismissal of Alan Pardew, questions have been raised from certain quarters about the motives of the chairman who sacked the first manager to bring silverware to St Mary’s in 34 years.

After securing Saints first win of the season – a four-goal demolition of Bristol Rovers – Pardew was ousted from his post as manager, the club claiming: ”to achieve its well known targets, it is essential to make changes to the management.”

A statement released to the media also declared that th

Arsenal Opinion - Walcott the solution to Gunners’ van Persie injury woe

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 08:43:50 GMT

Now into the third week of the Premier League season, one could argue that Arsenal have weathered a significant storm. The barrage of Blackburn Rovers attacks aside, the Gunners’ win on Saturday bolstered what has been their best start to a season in three years.

More could have been taken at Anfield against 10-man opposition, but facing Liverpool and Blackburn away so early in the season and coming away dignified with three points is far from unacceptable. The next stern test is to come in early October when Arsene Wenger’s men travel to SW6 to face Chelsea. Ge

Manchester United Opinion – Loan trio have chance to shine under Premier League spotlight

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 08:02:11 GMT

While Manchester United’s attempts to bring in new recruits before the transfer window deadline might have been scuppered, a number of their young and fringe players have found moves out of Old Trafford easier to come by. The likes of Mame Biram Diouf, Tom Cleverly and Danny Welbeck have secured year-long loans away from Manchester, and their success this season could point to a bright future for the club, amid speculation surrounding the longevity of their old guard, and their financial restraints.

Diouf signed for United during the last January transfer window, and after arri

Arsenal analysis - Beauty conquers the beast as Arsenal pass Blackburn aside

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 06:13:35 GMT

Blackburn 1 Diouf 27

Arsenal 2 Walcott 20, Arshavin 51

Arsenal battled to a 2-1 victory over a tough Blackburn side at Ewood Park on Saturday.

Manager Arsene Wenger tweaked to a 4-1-2-3 formation. Playing one out and out defensive midfielder and a front three full of pace and imagination. The system set the Gunners up perfectly for the counter attack by allowing Theo Walcott and Andrey Arshavin to use their speed to push Blackburn back.

Captain Cesc Fabregas, Robin van persie and Laurent Koscielny were restor

Club Focus - Sunderland - Hard work and good fortune gifts Sunderland a well earned first win of the season.

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 06:10:35 GMT

Sunderland defied the odds to pull off another memorable home win against big name opponents on Sunday afternoon when a last minute penalty gave them a 1-0 win over Manchester City. It was their first win over the Manchester club for over nine years and although the away side’s profligacy in front of goal had much to do with the end result, it was hard to begrudge the Mackems’ victory after their excellent second half performance.

Towards the end of the game, with City beginning to look like they would be grateful for a point, the Black Cat’s pressed for the win

Club Focus - Arsenal - Walcott making strides to prove critics wrong

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 06:01:50 GMT

Theo Walcott produced another fine display this weekend, cementing the fact that he is arguably Arsenal’s most in-form player. Having been used sporadically by Arsene Wenger thus far, the winger has emerged from pre-season as one of the first names on the Gunners team sheet.

Since his arrival as a raw youth from Southampton, Walcott the player has symbolised Arsenal the team as a whole – full of potential but yet to blossom consistently. Indeed, inconsistency is a trait which can be forgiven at a young age, as in the English Premier League any slightly-built te

Club Focus - Tottenham Hotspur - Redknapp insists surprise Wigan defeat is not a Champions League hangover

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 19:58:37 GMT

The popular explanation for Tottenham’s surprise home defeat to Wigan has been a case of “after the Lord Mayor’s show.” Having sealed qualification for the group stages of the Champions League in midweek, and then the excitement of being drawn against holders Inter Milan, Spurs could only offer a limp performance against the whipping boys of the fledgling Premier League season.

Harry Redknapp dismissed the suggestions that his team had suffered a hangover from their European exploits, exposing a flaw in the argument with his assertion that after a 4-0 win his

Arsenal news - Traore joins Juve, RvP out for 4 weeks, Inter Fabregas bid rejected

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:05:54 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Arsenal. Today:

RvP out for 4 weeks.

The Guardian reports that Arsenal's Robin van Persie has been ruled out of action for four weeks with an ankle injury sustained during the 2-1 away win at Blackburn. The Dutch star, who missed five months of last season with ligament damage in his right ankle, twisted his left and could be absent for the Gunners' Champions League opener against Braga next month. He was due to report for international duty with the Nethe

Liverpool news - Reds close in on Gomez, Fulham reject Zamora offer, Lucas future unsure

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:37:09 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Liverpool. Today:

Fulham reject Zamora offer.

Fulham have strongly rejected an enquiry by Liverpool into the possible purchase of start striker Bobby Zamora. New Reds boss Roy Hodgson looks set to bring in Zamora’s teammate Paul Konchesky by tonight, however he will not be swooping for the England striker. Zamora, 29, had an impressive season last time around, helping Fulham reach the Europa League final under Roy Hodgson. But the Telegraph claims that Hod

Tottenham news - Spurs Parker chase, Deadline day latest

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:52:53 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Tottenham. Today:

Spurs Parker chase latest.

Tottenham are continuing to press for West Ham’s Scott Parker with just hours left until the transfer window closes. According to the Telegraph, Harry Redknapp’s improved bid of £7 million, is hoped to be enough to tempt the 29-year-old to White Hart Lane. Tottenham have already landed Brazilian midfielder Ranieri Sandro from Internacional but it is understood Redknapp is after a more centralised playmaker to st

Chelsea news - Demichelis rules out Blues, Di Santo to join Wigan, Terry praise for Mikel

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:14:58 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Chelsea. Today:

Demichelis rules out Blues.

According to the Daily Mail, Martin Demichelis has ruled himself out of a £10m deadline day move to Chelsea. The versatile Bayern Munich star, who can play in defensive midfield and centre-back, revealed that he wants to stay with the Germans and fight for his place. Coach Louis van Gaal had told the Argentine he could move on but Demichelis declared: “I will be very honoured to stay at Bayern and fight. The c

Newcastle news - Ben Arfa talks on move, Keane snubs Magpies, Wolves match "a battlefield"

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:08:57 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Newcastle. Today:

Ben Arfa talks on move.

Newcastle have completed the signing of Hatem Ben Arfa from Marseille on a year long loan deal, BBC Sport reports. The 23-year-old forward is Newcastle manager Chris Hughton’s fifth signing of the summer and can operate from behind the striker or from either wing. Ben Arfa said: “I've paid real attention to the history of the club and the great players to have played for it, and particularly the supporters. I am de

Club Focus - Wolves - Good start continues but McCarthy's side far from the finished article

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:05:32 GMT

Five points from three games may represent Wolves best start to a Premier League season, but after the draw with Newcastle on Saturday, the main talking point lay in the team’s approach to the game. Criticisms about the Black Country side’s physicality were issued and there were also questions about whether Mick McCarthy’s brief flirtation with 4-4-2 has run it’s course.

The game, which has been described as harking back to the 1970’s, saw 12 yellow cards waved, four of which were for fouls on Joey Barton. Newcastle may not have been pleased with their tactics b

Club Focus - Bolton Wanderers - Late rally saves Jaaskelainen’s blushes

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:00:36 GMT

Bolton keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen provided the main talking point as his rash antics almost came at the cost of tarnishing their unbeaten start to the season.

There was much hype going into Sunday’s early afternoon kick-off- with both sides looking to build on a win and a draw from their first two games. Both Birmingham City and Bolton had also been tipped by bookies in pre-season to finish in the top-half of the table, and with Wanderers playing at home; there was a window of opportunity to get ahead of the competition.

Owen Coyle had insisted his t

Man City news - Robinho to Milan, Team spirit vital, Boyata eager for 1st team action

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:00:14 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Manchester City. Today:

Team spirit vital.

In the Metro, ex-Crystal Palace forward Mark Bright has insisted that Roberto Mancini needs to create harmony at Eastlands in order for them to win the title. The now BBC pundit told the paper in his column: “Harmony among footballers is so important. There is no working environment like football – it’s so competitive, everyone wants to play, but they can’t.” Bright also believes that togetherness in a side really brings out th

Club Focus - Newcastle - Magpies and Barton survive Wolves assault

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:55:08 GMT

Going into the two week international break manager Chris Hughton will be pleased with the start his side have made to life in the Premier League. On the back of the weekend’s 1-1 draw with Wolves they sit 8th in the embryonic league table with four points from three games. That is a respectable total given the tough start the fixture computer gave the Magpies before the season began. The undoubted highlight was the 6-0 victory over Aston Villa and there will be further satisfaction gained from a battling point at Molineux. In a blood and thunder encounter Newcastle’s spirit

Man Utd news - Fergie votes for Cech, Rooney World Cup hangover, Giggs praises Nani

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:54:13 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Man Utd. Today:

Rooney World Cup hangover.

Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan has admitted that Wayne Rooney is still recovering from his World Cup experience. Phelan told The Sun "Wayne came back to us a little bit dishevelled from his England exploits - and he is not 100 per cent fit yet." Rooney finally got his season started with a penalty against West Ham on Saturday, having previously gone 13 games without a goal. Phelan warned United fa

Club Focus - Everton - Moyes facing Cahill question as Everton’s progress becomes what is holding them back

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:39:39 GMT

After Everton’s latest early season disappointment, this time a 1-0 reverse against Aston Villa where the Blues dominated much of the game, a solution to the Toffees’ problems has become the Holy Grail on the Blue half of Merseyside.

Some will point to simple bad luck and there may be a kernel of truth to that - who could have predicted Tim Howard would commit a rare blunder against Blackburn Rovers, or Marouane Fellaini would stumble over the ball on Sunday? But to suggest it is simply misfortune that has led to Everton picking up one point from a possible nine is disingenuous

Club Focus – Liverpool - Hodgson finds a Portuguese man of war in Raul Meireles

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:17:22 GMT

Liverpool supporters always appreciate effort. It doesn’t matter if players haven’t got the most impressive technical ability – as long as they give their all for the Red shirt then they are going to be backed to the hilt. It’s why the likes of Igor Biscan and Erik Meijer are still fondly recalled despite their limited levels of skill – or almost complete lack thereof – but when a player combines that undeniable will-to-win with genuine, out-and-out quality, then the fans have got a favourite on their hands. That’s why Javier Mascherano was so popular, and that’s why Raul Meireles surely wi

Club Focus - Portsmouth - Sorry Pompey hit rock bottom

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:10:05 GMT

They say every season starts with renewed optimism, but for beleaguered Portsmouth fans, it was a case of renewed ambiguity and uncertainty.

Many predicted the side could still have the required quality to launch a play-off assault with off-field matters slowly returning to normality - some thought mid-table security was beckoning, while others thought a season fighting relegation was in the offing amid continued off-filed predicaments. After four league games, one glance at the table will tell you just which party were right. As Pompey prop-up up the Champions

Club Focus – Aston Villa – Victory over Everton fails to mask the problems at Villa Park

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:06:35 GMT

Although Aston Villa beat Everton on Sunday, their performance did not warrant a victory and only partially masked the evident problems at the club. Luke Young’s rare goal brought about a 1-0 win over a club that are often quoted as the club whose seasonal prospects are most similar to Aston Villa. In that regard, it was an excellent win and one that was a rarity last season. Too often Villa played games at home and failed to scrap out a victory. Should the guile and effort be repeated at home consistently this season, it will hold them in good stead. Another sign of positivity at the club

Club Focus – Manchester United – United bounce back with another convincing home win over the Hammers

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:06:23 GMT

After the disappointment of dropping two points at Fulham last weekend, Manchester United bounced back with an excellent performance and a convincing win over West Ham at Old Trafford.

The match was reminiscent of the opening-day victory over Newcastle, not just in the 3-0 scoreline but in the pattern of the game. In both matches, United controlled the game early on without making the breakthrough before dominating totally once ahead without racking up the number of goals their superiority deserved. After the match with the Magpies, Sir Alex Ferguson described h

Club Focus - Fulham – Konchesky departure means Hughes is set for busy deadline day

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:04:10 GMT

With the transfer window coming to a close at the end of today, the Fulham final 25 could yet take on a very different shape to the one Mark Hughes currently has to work with. With Paul Konchesky a near-certainty to join Liverpool, and Mark Schwarzer looking increasingly likely to finally move to the Emirates, the loss of two members of the mean Fulham defence of recent years leaves work to be done on the busiest day of the footballing year.

Konchesky is undoubtedly missed when he doesn’t line up on the left. Matthew Briggs performed admirably against Port Vale,

Club Focus - Blackpool - Seasiders Surrender to Sparky’s Fulham

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:03:30 GMT

A carnival atmosphere buzzed around Bloomfield Road on Blackpool’s first home game in the Premier League. Pre-match, souvenirs and mementos of the historic occasion were being sold on every corner of the ground. Optimism was the key word of the day, as the fans settled in for what became a rollercoaster ride of a match at Bloomfield Road.

Mark Hughes’ side took a lead into the interval after Bobby Zamora’s somewhat controversial close-range finish on 37 minutes. In the build-up to the play, Blackpool’s Ian Evatt seemed to be unfairly bundled over by the otherwis

Club Focus - Chelsea - Nine points from three games as Blues keep up perfect start

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:02:57 GMT

Chelsea players departing for the international break will leave the club top of the Premier League table after a 100 percent start to the season continued with Saturday’s 2-0 win over Stoke City at Stamford Bridge.

Going into the weekend Chelsea led the way as the only side yet to drop points after 6-0 victories over West Bromwich Albion and Wigan Athletic and maintained their advantage as goals from Florent Malouda and Didier Drogba’s penalty saw off Tony Pulis’ men. After Frank Lampard saw his weak spot-kick saved by Thomas Sorensen with nine minutes played,

Club Focus - Stoke City - Are Potters being too hasty in writing off Liam Lawrence?

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:53:34 GMT

With the transfer window about to slam shut, the new 25-man squad directive threatens to spark a flurry of last minute deals. Few clubs were expecting to be busier than Stoke City, with the Britannia Stadium set to be a hive of activity as Tony Pulis seeks as many as five new faces ahead of Tuesday’s 6pm deadline. Amid all the wheeling and dealing, one player who looks likely to leave the Potteries is Liam Lawrence, offered to Portsmouth along with Dave Kitson and a rumoured £3m in exchange for the South Coast club’s highly-rated young captain Marc Wilson.

While

Premier League Team of the Week - Walcott hits the headlines while Wigan stars feature after shock victory over Tottenham

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:41:55 GMT

Brad Friedel

Luke Young - Christopher Samba - Steve Gohouri - Ashley ColeGoalkeeper -

Brad Friedel (Aston Villa):

The 39-year-old American goalkeeper produced a string of impressive saves in the second-half to shut out Everton and help Villa capture the three points.

Defenders -

Luke Young (Aston Villa):

Young could be pushing for a regular place in the starting line up as he broke forward from right-back to coolly slot home past Tim Howard. He was equally impressive in the defensive department,

Club Focus - Blackburn Rovers - Home defeat to Arsenal but it's not all gloom for Allardyce's men

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 07:45:19 GMT

Blackburn Rovers slumped to their second consecutive league defeat this weekend as they were narrowly beaten 2-1 by Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal side. Theo Walcott’s sparkling form continued as he bagged an impressive opener in the first-half, but his vicious strike was cancelled out by an equally well worked goal scored by Mame Diouf minutes later. Russian forward Andrei Arshavin sealed the victory for the Gunners at the beginning of the second-half, condemning Rovers to their first home defeat of this new campaign.

Ewood Park has become somewhat of a fortress unde

Club Focus - West Ham - Hammers brushed aside at Old Trafford and still without a point

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 07:41:02 GMT

West Ham suffered their third defeat of the season away to Manchester United, which leaves them rooted to the bottom of the Premier League heading into the international break.

The Hammers were not expected to get anything from the game, but another loss will only add to the pressure Avram Grant is under to gain his first league win in charge. In his first three league games, his team have conceded nine goals and scored only one, a Mark Noble penalty against Bolton Wanderers.

The fixture list has not been kind to the Hammers, with a home game agai

Club Focus - Manchester City - Given turns down Fulham offer to stay at City

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 07:27:25 GMT

As you are reading this piece, I’s will be dotted and the T’s crossed on dozens of last-minute transfers up and down the land. Managers will desperately look to find the elusive final piece in the jigsaw to complete their squads. Without pausing for breath, managers will present new recruits to the Media, the smiles on their faces betraying the doubts which lie at the back of their mind. Make no mistake; most of the transfers will be made in a rush, the players struggling to justify the vastly inflated fees paid for their services.

With one day of the Transfer W

Man Utd news - £20m Rodwell move, Scholes rejects England call, Scunthorpe in the cup

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:51:29 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Man Utd. Today:

Scholes rejects England call.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has once again snubbed a return to international football, reports Imscouting. The 35 year-old has started the season superbly for United which has made England Head Coach Fabio Capello try to persuade the star to come out of international retirement. But the Italian said: “He spoke with Franco. He said he’s too old to play for United, play Premier League, Champions Le

Chelsea Analysis – Efficient Chelsea see off Stoke

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:49:29 GMT

Chelsea’s blistering start to the season showed no signs of stopping as they eased out a dogged Stoke side in an efficient display.

CHELSEA 2Malouda 32, Drogba 77

STOKE 0

Though the visitors were spared the embarrassment of a six goal landslide, Chelsea were clear and deserved winners despite Frank Lampard’s early penalty miss. His failure to convert from the spot means Lampard has now missed his last three penalties dating all the way back to the FA Cup Final in May. When referee Martin Atkinson awarded Chelsea a second spot kick as t

Liverpool news - Reds £10m Cole bid, Ayala to Hull, Toivonen interest ends

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:10:04 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Liverpool. Today:

Toivonen interest ends.

Roy Hodgson has confirmed that Liverpool are unlikely to further pursue their long-standing interest in PSV forward Ola Toivonen. The Reds have been tracking Toivonen all summer, with an offer also already having been rejected by his club. However, speaking after the victory over West Brom, when Hodgson was asked if Toivonen could arrive he said: "No. Unlikely. He's a good player but not the profile I'm looking for

A Different Opinion - With the England squad for the European Championship qualifiers announced yesterday, is Theo Walcott the answer to the team's recent problems?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:59:45 GMT

Each week, A Different League takes an emerging issue from the Premier League and gathers the viewpoint of three of our expert writers. This week:

With the England squad for the European Championship qualifiers announced yesterday, is Theo Walcott the answer to the team's recent problems?

Alex Bath: "If Theo Walcott is the answer then people have seriously misunderstood the questions the English national team face. There is no doubting Walcott’s talent. He has performed on many occasions. Walcott’s problem is he rarely has a run of games where he ha

Tottenham news - Spurs £8m Parker swoop, Muntari an option, No Young bid

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:14:20 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Tottenham. Today:

Muntari an option.

According to the Italian newspaper Tuttosport, Tottenham are interested in Inter Milan’s Sulley Muntari and have opened talks with the Serie A Champions. The transfer window is due to close tomorrow yet Spurs still have their sights set on several players, the Ghanaian midfielder being one of them. Muntari played for Portsmouth before moving to Inter Milan but was nothing more than a fringe player last season.

Newcastle Utd news - £8m Dutch striker bid, More could follow Ben Arfa, Barton keeps his cool

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 10:31:29 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Newcastle. Today:

Barton keeps his cool.

After Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Wolves, Chris Hughton praised Joey Barton for keeping his cool in a highly physical game: “I think Joey is aware we want to see more of him on the football pitch,” the manager revealed. “He has missed a fair chunk through injury during the last couple of years and I think he is really pleased and grateful to be first and foremost playing. What comes with that is a responsibility to s

Aston Villa Analysis - Stubborn Villa hold out for victory

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 10:27:01 GMT

ASTON VILLA 1L. Young 9

EVERTON 0

Luke Young’s early goal proved to be enough to secure victory for Aston Villa, as they fought hard to hang to their lead against a strong Everton side to record a second Premier League victory of the season.

It has been a difficult week for the Villains, losing embarrassingly to newly promoted Newcastle United last weekend and then being knocked out of Europe midweek. Yesterday’s result was the perfect tonic for Kevin MacDonald’s side.

Villa’s system under MacDonald resembles a cross betwee

Arsenal news - Wilshere arrested, Wenger defends Fabregas, Transfer rests on Given injury

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 10:10:59 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Arsenal. Today:

Wilshere arrested.

Arsenal starlet Jack Wilshere was reportedly arrested in west London in the early hours of Sunday morning, according to the Telegraph. The paper states that Wilshere, 18, was released on bail following the fracas in Kensington. Arsenal have issued a statement indicating that they do not intend taking any disciplinary action: "We understand Jack was witness to an unfortunate incident. He co-operated fully with the authorit

Liverpool Analysis - Reds still searching for fluidity as Torres inspires crucial first win

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:50:00 GMT

LIVERPOOL 1Torres 66

WEST BROMWICH ALBION 0

"Being brutally honest they haven't brought any top-class players in to replace the ones they have sold. They haven't tried to improve the squad. Nando deserves to be playing with the best players like he does with Spain. If Liverpool have another disappointing season that will be it for him. Our coach Pep Guardiola is a big admirer of Nando. If he wanted to leave next summer I would imagine Barcelona to be very much in the running."

As Arsene Wenger will testify, Barcelona's p

Premier League Analysis - Three games in, can we start judging the teams?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:06:16 GMT

As John Motson is often so eager to reminisce about, many years ago the league did not even publish tables until three games in. The idea being that you cannot really judge the form of the teams until they have played a few times. So three games in, can we now judge the state of the league?

Chelsea will be delighted with their start. They may have enjoyed this weekend less than some recently, disappointing everyone by only winning 2-0 against Stoke. Frank Lampard missed his third penalty of recent times, but the continuing form of Florent Malouda and Didier Dro

Arsenal news - Carroll transfer target, Hughes concedes Schwarzer move likely, Traore set for exit

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:23:41 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Arsenal. Today:

Carroll transfer target.

Arsene Wenger appears to have identified Newcastle striker Andy Carroll as a long term transfer target, according to the Daily Mail. The 21-year-old has thus far enjoyed an impressive start to life as The Magpies’ No.9, and has recently been thought to have played his way into the plans of England manager Fabio Capello too. Wenger is believed to have been a fan of Carroll’s for a long time now, and while the Gunners

Chelsea news - Ancelotti happy with form, Lampard and Terry out of England squad, Begovic £10m price tag

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:20:43 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Chelsea. Today:

Ancelotti happy with form.

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is pleased with the focus that his Chelsea side are showing, BBC Sport reports. Florent Malouda and Didier Drogba were on target at Stamford Bridge as the Blues continued their 100% start to the season with a 2-0 win over Stoke. Ancelotti said: “We didn't play our best football but we were focused and concentrated - it's important to win. It's impossible to win 6-0 every week, today

Man City news - Given to Fulham, Vieira to look out for Balotelli, Bruce: Decades until City have Utd history

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:15:17 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Manchester City. Today:

Vieira to look out for Balotelli.

Manchester City midfielder Patrick Vieira has insisted he will be new signing Mario Balotelli’s minder and guide him the rights and wrongs of English football, the Daily Mail reports. Vieira formed a close relationship with the 20 year old in the latter stages of Vieira’s San Siro career and he has taken it upon himself to care for the Italian bad boy. The French international midfielder said: “I had people to lo

Tottenham news - Keane/Young deadline day swap, Redknapp: we got what we deserved, Arsenal in the cup

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:10:15 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Tottenham. Today:

Redknapp: we got what we deserved.

Harry Redknapp has told the BBC his side’s 1-0 defeat to Wigan Athletic on Saturday had nothing to do with the midweek game against Young Boys. Spurs cruised to a 4-0 win against their Swiss opposition but failed to relay any kind of the form on Saturday afternoon against a team that have conceded 10 goals in their last two Premier League matches: “We were poor and we got what we deserved.”

Man Utd news - Hargreaves could still make squad, Rooney ends goal drought, Cleverley to Wigan

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:05:33 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Man Utd. Today:

Rooney ends goal drought.

Wayne Rooney finally ended his 6-month goal drought yesterday. Never will the England striker be happier to tuck away a simple penalty as it brought his spell of 18 and a half hours of football without a goal to an end. Manager Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted with Rooney’s display, “He looked much more himself. Strikers want to score and he got off the mark” he told The Independent. Rooney will now be hoping he can

Liverpool news - Raul Meireles signs, Liverpool v West Brom, Mascherano delight

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 10:46:41 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Liverpool. Today:

Raul Meireles signs.

Liverpool have completed the signing of Porto's Raul Meireles. According to ESPN, the deal is worth £14m and the Portugese international has revealed that Roy Hodgson was the reason he moved to Anfield. The midfielder, who is a keen goalscorer, also stated that he has not just come to Liverpool as a replacement for Javier Mascherano: "Roy Hodgson was key to me coming here because he worked so hard to sign me. I am Mei

Tottenham news - Spurs close in on Young, Spurs play Arsenal in Cup, Bale confident for Champs success

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 13:13:40 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Tottenham. Today:

Spurs play Arsenal in Cup.

Tottenham have been drawn to play Arsenal in the 3rd round of the Carling Cup. The last time the two sides met, Spurs gained all 3 points in part of a end-of-season run that saw the club qualify for the Champions League. Today the two fierce rivals were drawn to play eachother, and the tie will be played on the week commencing September 20.

Bale confident for Champs success.

Spurs left

Liverpool news - Konchesky set to sign, Hodgson has £20m shopping budget, Steaua Bucharest next for Reds

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 12:20:58 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Liverpool. Today:

Hodgson has £20m shopping budget.

The Liverpool Echo reports that Roy Hodgson will be allowed to spend all of the money from Javier Mascherano’s transfer to Barcelona on new recruits. The Argentine is expected to complete his move to the Nou Camp this evening after Liverpool accepted a bid reportedly worth over £20m. Hodgson is keeping tabs on PSV forward Ola Toivonen and there is also desperate need for a replacement for Mascherano. Th

Man City news - Marwood warns Adebayor, Mancini relishing Italy return, Benjani joins Blackburn

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 12:09:59 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Manchester City. Today:

Marwood warns Adebayor.

Manchester City’s football administrator Brian Marwood has told unsettled forwards Emmanuel Adebayor and Robinho to knuckle down and remain professional, BBC Sport reports. Adebayor has warned that he could quit the club and Robinho has openly admitted he would love a move to Spain or Italy. Marwood said: “They have a contract and they have certain obligations.” Marwood, however, revealed that if Robinho stays at the club,

Man Utd news - Ferdinand set for comeback, Bebe fitness problems persist, Grant: We're no walkover

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 11:14:11 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Man Utd. Today:

Ferdinand set for comeback.

Sir Alex Ferguson has suggested Rio Ferdinand could be back within the next couple of weeks. Only last week, Ferguson appeared to rule the England captain out for around a month. Ferguson yesterday seemed to suggest the centre-backs return is imminent, telling the Daily Mail, “He won’t be involved against West Ham [this weekend], but we just have to think when we can get a game for him in the next two weeks.” Fer

Chelsea news - Ramires ready, No interest in Park, Begovic not coming to Blues

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 10:58:59 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Chelsea. Today:

Ramires ready.

Chelsea new boy Ramires has insisted he will have nothing to fear from the physical element of the Premier League, the Daily Star reports. The £18m midfield signing from Benfica said: “I understand what the Premier League is about. I’ve watched it on the television and physical strength is the main part of English football. I know tackles will be flying in and it’ll be physical, but I can do that, too. I know what to expect.

Arsenal news - Allardyce feud reignited, watch Blackburn v Arsenal live, Squillaci talks

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 10:46:09 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Arsenal. Today:

Wenger surprised at Wilshere snub.

Arsene Wenger has admitted his surprise at starlet Jack Wilshere’s omission from the latest England squad, according to Mirrorfootball.co.uk. The 18-year-old won his first cap for the Three Lions in the friendly win over Hungary earlier this month, and has been included in the U-21 squad for the European qualifiers against Portugal and Lithuania. Wilshere’s Arsenal team-mate Kieran Gibbs has not been selec

Club Focus - Everton - Toffees turn attention to Aston Villa after leaping over Huddersfield hurdle

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 19:11:03 GMT

A morale-boosting 5-1 League Cup victory over Huddersfield Town was the perfect tonic for an Everton side suffering a lack of confidence after a poor start to the Premier League season, but when the league campaign resumes on Sunday at Villa Park, Everton will be faced with a Jekyll and Hyde home outfit.

Will David Moyes be faced with the Villa side that dismantled West Ham on the opening weekend of the season, or the one that crumpled against Newcastle United in their last domestic outing? Gauging which Villa will show is nigh on impossible for Moyes but the Sc

Game of the Week - Bologna vs Inter Milan

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:30:29 GMT

There are very few walks of life in which, having been widely judged to have failed in your last job, you could realistically expect to secure a position with greater rewards and a higher profile. However, football has never been known for sailing amiably with the tide of conventional wisdom, and so Rafael Benitez now has an immediate opportunity to restore a reputation that took a terrible hit in his final season as boss at Anfield. He inherits a treble-winning side from Jose Mourinho, and, starting on Monday in Bologna, while replicating the achievements of 'the Special On

Marlon King Set For Controversial Return

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:27:42 GMT

Disgraced footballer, Marlon King, is set for a controversial return to the Football League following his release from prison last month having served nine months of an eighteen-month jail sentence for assaulting a woman in a London nightclub.

King was sacked by Wigan Athletic Chairman Dave Whelan, who claimed that he couldn’t see a future in professional football for King. The thirty-year-old is no stranger to controversy, having faced criminal charges in court seven times since the age of seventeen. Whilst playing for Gillingham back in 2002, King was and sent

Club Focus - Manchester City - City into Europe as Ireland's Aston Villa crash out

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:17:20 GMT

Even Manchester City fans with the most nervous of dispositions could not have worried unduly about Europa League qualification. This Manchester City team is built of stronger, more expensive material than Stephen Ireland’s Aston Villa side disposed of by Rapid Vienna at this stage of the competition for the second consecutive season, and adding to their one-goal first-leg advantage proved a formality.

As is Roberto Mancini’s wont with such a vast squad at his disposal, numerous changes were made following Monday night’s impressive statement of intent against L

Club Focus - Blackpool - Tangerines looking to get back on track with crunch game at home to Fulham

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:13:47 GMT

After the drubbing against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium last weekend and a Carling Cup upset at the hands of League One’s MK Dons, Blackpool boss Ian Holloway will look to get his club back on track. Holloway defended his team selection against the Dons, fielding a weakened side in the hope of resting his players for their Premier League encounters. The Blackpool team should have been strong enough to see of the lower league outfit side, but the plan backfired and Lewis Guy’s extra time winner upset the odds and gave the hosts a 4-3 extra time victory.

Hollow

Club Focus - Real Madrid - Mourinho bow dawns as Madrid look to gatecrash Barcelona’s dominance

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:00:20 GMT

Real Madrid start the dawn of a new era on Sunday night when Jose Mourinho’s affluent amassed team make the trip to the Balearic Islands to take on a financially stricken Mallorca outfit, now managed by former Los Blancos and Barcelona playmaker Michael Laudrup.

A successful, unbeaten pre-season has helped Mourinho tinker and test the resolve of a Real Madrid squad boasting an impressive catalogue of world-class talent. Even with an unprecedented amount of Euros again lavished , Madrid still remain partially wounded from last terms failure under erstwhile Villa

Arsenal news - £6.5m Landreau targeted, Eduardo to make Gunners return, Stekelenburg rules out Arsenal

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 14:16:03 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Arsenal. Today:

Eduardo to make Gunners return.

Former Arsenal striker Eduardo looks set for an early reunion at the Emirates when new club Shakhtar Donetsk travel to north London as part of the Champions League Group H fixtures on October 19th, according to UEFA.com. The Croatian international joined the Ukranian champions this summer, after three years at the Gunners. Speaking to the Mirror, Eduardo said: “It will be very special to go back to London and

Chelsea news - Blues Champs reaction, Begovic deal latest, Mancienne gets games at Wolves

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:19:29 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Chelsea. Today:

Mancienne gets games at Wolves.

Wolves have confirmed that defender Michael Mancienne has joined the club on a season long loan from Chelsea. Wolves boss Mick McCarthy told the club’s official website: “I'm delighted that Mance has re-signed for another year. We know the quality he's got and it's great to have him back. He made 30-odd appearances for us in the Barclays Premier League last season and did very well.” Mancienne has three years

Liverpool news - Hodgson: Inter offer a joke, Trezeguet to turn down 'Pool advances, Reds Europa win

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:16:07 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Liverpool. Today:

Hodgson: Inter offer a joke.

Roy Hodgson has laughed off a ‘joke’ offer by Inter for Reds midfielder Javier Mascherano. The Argentinean is unhappy at Anfield and is desperate to find a new club, with Barcelona and Inter both interested. However, theDaily Mail claims that Rafael Benitez’s new club have made an offer of just £6m plus Sulley Muntari for Mascherano, a deal which Hodgson finds unacceptable and was duly rejected. The defensive

Tottenham news - Luis Fabiano £30m price tag, Spurs happy with Champs draw, Spurs prepare for Wigan

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:12:59 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Tottenham. Today:

Spurs happy with Champs draw.

Tottenham Hotspur share Group A of the Champions League with current Cup holders Inter Milan after the draw was made on Thursday. The other two teams in Spurs’ group are German outfit Werder Bremen and FC Twente of Holland. Tottenham travel to the San Siro on 20 October but Redknapp insists he is not intimidated by the Italian Giants. He told The Sun: “Are we worried about taking on Inter? Am I worried about

Man Utd news - Scholes rules out England return, No new signings, Champs League draw positive

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:10:16 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Man Utd. Today:

Champs League draw positive.

Manchester United have received a near perfect draw in the Champions League’s group stages. The Reds would have found it difficult to pick themselves a better group, with the hardest tie being an away tie against Valencia. The Spanish side are a shadow of the team that reached the final in 2000 and 2001, having sold their key players this summer. Manager Sir Alex Ferguson will be looking forward to taking his si

Club Focus - Liverpool - Reds make heavy weather of things before enjoying Turkish delight

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:00:37 GMT

For large periods of last night’s Europa League playoff second leg, it appeared as though Trabzon was going to be as far as Liverpool would go on this season’s Europa League tour. Roy Hodgson went all the way to the final with Fulham last season - the Reds got to the semi-finals - but Teofilo Gutierrez’s early strike would have had him fearing that he was heading out of European competition before this season has really begun, still surely cursing an inability to kill off Trabzonspor at Anfield a week previously. Just as extra time loomed, the Reds’ overall superiority final

Club Focus - Tottenham Hotspur - Spurs rewarded with tough draw after securing Champions League debut

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:46:46 GMT

After a wait of 48 and a half years, Tottenham will again appear in the competition proper of the European Cup. After a 28-minute scare in Berne last week, Spurs hit back with a 4-0 win against Young Boys at White Hart Lane on Wednesday night, sealing a 6-3 aggregate victory and a place in the group stage of the Champions League.

Tottenham discovered their opponents late on Thursday afternoon following the draw in Monaco. Having been placed in the third pot of seeds, a tough draw was always likely and duly arrived as Spurs were placed in Group A with reigning ch

Newcastle news - Keane to Magpies, Ben Arfa loan done? Taylor offered new deal

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:38:06 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Newcastle. Today:

Ben Arfa loan done?

Goal.com reports that Newcastle’s loan move for Hatem Ben Arfa is back on and the deal could be completed in the next few hours. Marseille President Jean-Claude Dassier revealed last night that the winger is set fly to Newcastle to seal a season long move. The club had reportedly lost interest in the French International after hearing his sensational wage demands but with moves to Werder Bremen or Liverpool yet to ma

A Different Week - Stingin' the Tayl' - Why Steven Taylor must swallow his pride for both his and Newcastle’s sake

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:36:28 GMT

Steven Taylor’s Newcastle United career tonight hangs by a thread, with the North East club placing the popular defender on the transfer list after he refused a new deal at St James’ Park. Despite Taylor apparently living the dream of playing for the team which he supported as a boy, this was seemingly not enough for the player, who, after a number of discussions with the club, rejected a four-year deal worth £40,000 a week in the hope of the offer being upped to an alleged £65k. Newcastle, who are currently in the process of trying to reduce their wage bill, said no and rep

Man City news - Europa draw, Santa Cruz in Fulham link, Ferguson criticism "misinformed"

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:33:03 GMT

Every morning A Different League searches the nations press to bring you the latest goings on at Manchester City. Today:

Europa draw.

Manchester City secured their place in the Europa League draw for the knockout stages with a 2-0 night win against Timisoara, the Guardian reports. A goal just before half-time from Shaun Wright-Phillips and a second half header from young defender Dedryck Boyata saw them through. "It wasn't easy because they [Timisoara] played with 10 men behind the ball and we didn't have much space," Mancini said afterwards. "We are pleased becaus

Boothroyd keeping Coventry's feet firmly on the ground as a season full of promise looms

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:19:00 GMT

Press conferences have not always been cheerful affairs at Coventry City. The Sky Blues have flirted heavily with relegation in the last two seasons, and managers haven't usually had too much to be upbeat about in front of the media. But there was a marked change in mood at the club's training ground in Ryton yesterday. As Aidy Boothroyd sat down to field questions from the assorted journalists, he found himself having to tactfully play down expectations, in an effort to avoid putting too much pressure on a Coventry side that have made a promising start to the new season.

Premier League week 3 preview - 28th/29th August

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:17:00 GMT

This weekend sees the third round of Premier League fixtures taking place and it certainly has a lot to live up to. Blackpool have already tasted the ups and downs of the Premier League, crashing back to earth last Saturday with a 6-0 defeat at Arsenal. There is no doubt Chelsea have set the benchmark with back-to-back 6-0 victories, but manager Carlo Ancelotti knows tougher tasks lie ahead. Manchester United let the lead slip on two occasions last Sunday as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Fulham at Craven Cottage, while neither of the Merseyside rivals Liverpool and Everton

Club Focus - Valencia - Hope for Valencia after favourable Champions League draw

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:11:12 GMT

Yesterdays UEFA Champions League draw is one that offers much hope for Los Che as they will face Manchester United, Rangers and Turkish Champions Bursaspor in Group C.

English Premier League outfit Manchester United will offer the sternest test for Unai Emery’s men, in a group which offers a good chance of progression for the Spaniards. Most recently winners of the competition in 2008, Sir Alex Ferguson’s side have the European know how and the depth of squad to put themselves forward as real contenders for the trophy, and qualification from the group should pro