England News
October, 2004
Sunday, 31 October 2004 -
La Liga: Michael Owen scores again, for Real Madrid, as they beat Getafe 2-0.
It is Owen's fourth in as many games.
Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren has vowed to remain as England coach
Sven-Göran Eriksson's assistant until
after the 2006 World Cup. He told The People: "I am enjoying being back
with England. What I am doing stimulates my appetite for both jobs. There
are times when I am sure the Boro lads are glad to see the back of me. But
after being away with England, I look back to getting on the training pitch at
Middlesbrough".
Arsenal's Ashley Cole insists he did not throw food at Manchester United
boss Sir Alex Ferguson on 24 October. The Gunners defender had been
accused of covering the United boss in food during a fracas in the tunnel after
Arsenal's 2-0 defeat at Old Trafford. But Cole told the News of the World:
"I did not throw pizza at Sir Alex. I felt frustrated and angry but I did
not feel reckless enough to shame myself by throwing food at anyone, especially
the Manchester United boss."
Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie claims he has changed his game to focus
on becoming a goalscoring rather than a ball-winning midfielder. Hendrie,
who hit his fourth goal in five games in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Everton, said:
"Every time I go on the pitch now I just think 'goals'. I have confidence
to have a go when I see the chance and I'm the leading scorer now, which is hard
to believe. I'm a midfielder but I can't even tackle a fish supper, I'm
that bad."
Michael Owen believes he owes his turnaround in form at Real
Madrid to team-mate David Beckham's rib injury. Beckham has been sidelined
since 9 October and striker Owen, who has now scored three goals in three games,
has taken advantage of a rejigged side. "I would never have thought
David's injury would get me into the team," Owen told the Sunday Mirror
newspaper. "We play in totally different positions but the way it's worked
out the manager has reshuffled the pack a little bit." Owen had struggled
to establish himself at Real Madrid following his summer switch from Liverpool.
He explained how a change in midfield personnel has seen him come off the bench.
"He's brought Zidane inside and brought Raul back to left midfield and I've come
in up front. So, you could say David's injury has given me the
opportunity."
The 24-year-old striker also increased speculation that former Anfield
team-mate Steven Gerrard could join him and Beckham at the Bernabeu. Real
Madrid president Florentino Perez has already said he is interested in the
England central midfielder. "I that it's something fantastic for Steven
that a club like Real are interested in him," said Owen. "I don't want to
say anything to anger the Liverpool support. But he is very interested in
understanding how things are going for me here at Real Madrid."
Meanwhile, Jonathan Woodgate has revealed his move to Real is not working
out as he planned. The former Newcastle United defender has yet to make
his debut for the La Liga side as he struggles to shake off a long-term thigh
injury. "I came here in a hopeful frame of mind but now it has turned into
a nightmare," Woodgate said. "I was progressing quite well but then had
another setback with my thigh. The injury has made it hard for me to settle in.
When you don't play it gets to you and you have to convince yourself to become
stronger." Woodgate, who is going to see a specialist in Norway, could now
have to wait until next April before returning to action.
Saturday, 30 October 2004 -
Premiership football: Frank Lampard scores Chelsea's 4th, in their 4-1 win over
West Bromwich Albion, keeping them 2nd. A Lee Hendrie goal for Aston Villa
keeps Everton 3rd in their 1-1 draw. Steve McClaren's Middlesbrough climb
to 4th following their 2-1 win over Charlton Athletic. A David Unsworth
penalty gives Portsmouth a 2-0 win over Manchester United. Championship:
Joe Royle's Ipswich Town climb to 2nd after their win over Preston North End.
Steve Coppell's Reading drop to 3rd following defeat from Peter Reid's Coventry
City. Dennis Wise's Millwall lose to Stoke City. League One: Brian
Little's Tranmere Rovers climb to 2nd following a 1-0 win over Brentford.
Peter Taylor's Hull City remain 3rd after they drew with Wrexham. Colin
Todd's Bradford City are thrashed by leaders Luton Town, and drop to 4th spot.
Roy McFarland's Chesterfield draw Sheffield Wednesday, and Paul Merson's Walsall
draw with Milton Keynes Dons. League Two: Keith Curle's Mansfield Town
drop to 8th following a scoreless draw with Bury. Tony Adams' Wycombe
Wanderers lose to Darlington, and Graham Rix's Oxford United beat Cheltenham
Town. SPL: Terry Butcher's Motherwell lose to Celtic.
The 1st round draw of the FA Cup is made: Tony Adams' Wycombe
Wanderers face non-league sides Liversedge or Coalville Town. Peter
Taylor's Hull City face Morecambe. Keith Curle's Mansfield Town face
Colchester United. Paul Merson's Walsall away to Slough Town or Salisbury.
If Nigel Clough's Burton Albion overcome Hinckley United, then they will face
Torquay United. Roy McFarland's Chesterfield away to Scunthorpe United.
Colin Todd's Bradford City face Rushden & Diamonds. Brian Little's
Tranmere Rovers away to Peterborough United. Brian Talbot's Oldham
Athletic away at Thurrock, and Graham Rix's Oxford United away to Rochdale.
Friday, 29 October 2004 -
Newcastle United manager Graeme Souness has revealed he hopes to persuade Alan
Shearer to shelve plans to retire at the end of the season. Souness said:
"I don't think he would need much persuading if he was getting 20 or more goals
this season. If he had a good season and we had a good season then I don't
think he would take much persuading. Providing he's doing the business I'd
love him around the place."
Thursday, 28 October 2004 -
Celtic striker Chris Sutton is out for "the next few weeks", according to the
club's official website. Sutton was taken off during the second half of
Wednesday night's defeat by Aberdeen with a chest injury. A scan on
Thursday confirmed he had strained a muscle and that means a lay-off of a number
of weeks.
Aston Villa have received a boost after learning that
Jlloyd Samuel's shoulder injury
is not as bad as first feared. The defender had played every minute
of every game since David O'Leary joined the club - until he was forced off the
pitch in Tuesday's loss to Burnley. But a scan has revealed the shoulder
is just bruised and the 23-year-old could make Saturday's match with Everton.
Wednesday, 27 October 2004 -
A second night of 3rd round Carling Cup football ends with few surprises.
A Robbie Fowler goal, his 200th career goal, cannot prevent Kevin Keegan's
Manchester City being beaten at home by Arsenal's reserve side. A
Jermaine Jenas goal sets Newcastle
United on their way to victory over Norwich City. Holders Steve McClaren's
Middlesbrough beat Peter Reid's Coventry City. A Ledley King own goal, and
Les Ferdinand goal for Bolton Wanderers, and a
Jermain Defoe brace for Tottenham
Hotspur cannot separate the two teams after 90 minutes, but Spurs end the
victors after playing extra-time. A missed Frank Lampard penalty does not
prevent Chelsea overcoming West Ham United. The 4th round draw pits
holders Steve McClaren's Middlesbrough away to Liverpool. McClaren is the
only remaining England-linked manager in the competition.
The Football Association has handed Tottenham captain Jamie
Redknapp an extra two-game ban for his tackle on Tim Cahill at Everton on 2
October.
Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan said he thinks
Shaun Wright-Phillips
will eventually become a centre forward. The 23-year-old scored two goals
in Sunday's 4-3 loss to Newcastle United, where Keegan played him as a striker
with Jon Macken and Nicolas Anelka out injured. "I think up front is where
Shaun will end up playing, have no doubt in my mind," Keegan told City's
website. "Really you would like three of him in your side - one for the
right, one for centre midfield and one for up front. He scored two quality
goals at Newcastle and could have had two more and his finishing has improved
considerably over the seasons."
West Bromwich Albion are refusing to comment on reports they have approached Sir
Bobby Robson to take over at The Hawthorns from sacked Gary Megson. Robson
has been touted as the early favourite to succeed Megson, possibly in
partnership with former Baggies star Bryan Robson. Bryan Robson said "I
shall be applying, It's a job I'm interested in. I've heard a rumour about me
and Sir Bobby but I can assure you I have not spoken to him." Megson was dismissed
after confirming he would not sign a new contract. Former England manager
Glenn Hoddle is also in contention.
Tuesday, 26 October 2004 -
3rd round Carling Cup football: Dennis Wise's Millwall are beaten by Liverpool.
Leeds United go out to Portsmouth, despite a goal from Brian Deane. Alan
Smith sets a Manchester United reserve side on its way to victory over Crewe
Alexandra.
Michael Owen continued his Real Madrid hot streak by bagging his
third goal in three games, and that proved Real boss Mariano Garcia
Remon was right to call the former Liverpool hitman the sharpest striker in
Spain. Owen, 24, slotted home after 49 minutes of his King’s Cup debut to
cap a brilliant seven days in which he also netted the winners against Dinamo
Kiev and Valencia.
Aston Villa striker Darius Vassell says he can still salvage something from his
season despite suffering a broken ankle in Saturday's 2-0 win against Fulham.
Vassell faces three months out after the challenge with Pape Bouba Diop but is
confident he will bounce back. "I have broken my leg twice playing for
Villa and both times got back playing better and stronger and I'll be looking to
do the same again, I can salvage the end of the season if I get back by
the end of January. "I think it's six weeks in plaster and then after
those six weeks it will be another six weeks of rehabilitation. I will then be
looking to try and get involved again. It's disappointing, but it is not the end
of the world for me. I can still salvage the end of the season if I get
back by the end of January so it's not too bad."
A petition calling for a posthumous knighthood for legendary football manager
Brian Clough is being handed into
Downing Street on Tuesday. The former Nottingham Forest and Derby County
boss died from stomach cancer last month aged 69. Now Derby North MP Bob
Laxton will present the 6,500 signatures calling for him to be honoured to Tony
Blair. He has admitted that it has never happened before, but said he
hoped public pressure may make a difference
Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan has been charged by the
Football Association for his comments to referee Steve Dunn. He approached
Dunn after his side's 4-3 Premiership defeat by Newcastle on Sunday, and told
him he was "not strong enough and made too many mistakes". Keegan has been
charged with "using abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour" towards the
official. Keegan has until 9 November to admit or deny the charge.
Keegan will write to referee Steve Dunn to apologise for his conduct.
England captain David Beckham faces another two to three weeks on the
sidelines because of his rib injury. He has only undergone light training
and exercises with Real Madrid's medical staff after picking up the injury in
England's game against Wales. The midfielder said: "I still have a little bit of
pain and I will be out for at least another two weeks." Meanwhile, coach Mariano
Garcia Remon said Real were right to sign Michael Owen over Barcelona's Samuel
Eto'o.
Blackburn Rovers' home game against Liverpool on Saturday looks set to
come too soon for Rovers midfielder
David Thompson as he battles to regain full fitness. Thompson missed
most of last season following knee surgery and has made only one start this
campaign. An ankle injury has set back his latest return to action.
Carlton Palmer is among several applicants for the Shrewsbury manager's
job vacated by Jimmy Quinn last week. As is Mark Wright, amongst others.
Monday, 25 October 2004 -
Aston Villa have revealed striker Darius Vassell has suffered a broken ankle and
will be out of action for an "extended period". The 24-year-old sustained
the injury after a challenge by Pape Bouba Diop in their 2-0 win over Fulham on
Saturday. A Villa spokesman said: "Vassell has a fracture of his ankle. He
went to hospital for an X-ray which revealed the extent of the damage. "Vassell
is looking at an extended period of absence."
Sunday, 24 October 2004 -
Premiership football: Wayne Rooney
celebrates his 19th birthday by ending Arsenal's unbeaten league run of 49
games. He won the penalty that set United on their way, and scored his
first United goal in the last minute, giving them a 2-0 win. Alan Shearer,
Robbie Fowler and 2 from
Shaun Wright-Phillips all score as Kevin Keegan's Manchester City lose away
at Newcastle United. Steve McClaren's Middlesbrough draw with Portsmouth.
SPL: Chris Sutton grab's one of the goals as Celtic beat Livingston.
Scott Parker says he has
not seriously thought of leaving Chelsea, despite his struggle to break into the
first team. Parker was a substitute in the win over Manchester United on the
first day of the season but did not play again until Wednesday's game with CSKA
Moscow. The midfielder made his first start against Blackburn on Saturday
and said: "It was difficult but leaving never really came into my mind.
I've surprised myself how professional I've been over the last few weeks."
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder and captain Jamie Redknapp wants to follow his
father Harry into management. Redknapp, 31, wants to play for another two
years before moving into the coaching world like his father, who is currently
the boss of Portsmouth. "I'd like to go into management because it's
always been part of my life. It will be interesting to see whether I can crack
it," said Redknapp.
The FA is to face an independent review in the wake of its handling of David
Beckham's yellow card against Wales. Sports Minster Richard Caborn said
the FA now needed to take a closer look at the way it is run. "It's very
important to do that right, I think the FA is very mindful of that. Things have
evolved but the FA has not moved on at same pace as the game has. That's what we
have to look at." Caborn insisted he was more interested in looking at the
running of the game in general, rather than Beckham's case. "What I'm keen
to do is to make sure that governing bodies are fit for purpose and can deal
with discipline on the park. I think there is a need to have an
independent look at the governance and I think everybody else in football
accepts that, including the FA." Caborn revealed he had already held
discussions with former FA chief executive Mark Palios on the matter and that he
aimed to have the review in place before Christmas. He said: "Many now
believe that an independent review given by someone with gravitas can take a
clear view and recommend a new structure to all parts of football."
Saturday, 23 October 2004 -
Premiership football: Lee Hendrie scored Aston Villa's 2nd goal as they beat
Fulham. The Championship: Peter Reid's Coventry City could not halt Wigan
Athletic's domiance, City lose 4-1 and Wigan stay top. Steve Coppell's
Reading remain second after defeating Crewe Alexandra. Joe Royle's Ipswich
Town slip up and draw 2-2 against Watford, although they do remain 3rd.
Dennis Wise's Millwall drop to 9th after only drawing with Cardiff City.
League One: Peter Taylor's Hull City climb to 3rd after beating leaders Luton
Town. It enables Colin Todd's Bradford City to gain on the leaders after they
beat Sheffield Wednesday. Brian Little's Tranmere Rovers climb to 6th,
after there away win at Colchester United. Roy McFarland's Chesterfield
draw Doncaster Rovers. Paul Merson's Walsall lose to Bristol City.
Brian Talbot's Oldham Athletic lose to Bournemouth, they are in 20th spot, 4
places and 3 points above bottom place. League Two: Tony Adams' Wycombe
Wanderers takes on Keith Curle's Mansfield Town, a 1-1 draw leaves Town dropping
to 7th, Wanderers remaining 12th. Graham Rix's Oxford United lose to
Macclesfield Town. SPL: Terry Butcher's Motherwell lose to Aberdeen and
drop to 5th spot. La Liga: Michael Owen proved to be Real Madrid's match-winner
for the second time in a week as he scored the only goal in a 1-0 win over
Valencia at the Bernabeu.
The FA today welcomed
figures released by the Home Office showing that last season’s arrests for
football-related offences are down by 10% from the 2002-03 season.
FA Chairman Geoff Thompson
said: "This positive trend reflects the close co-operation between the
football authorities, the police and the government in clamping down on
violent and anti-social behaviour at and around football matches. It is
particularly encouraging in a season that saw the highest number of people
going to football matches for 34 years." With attendances over 29
million people last season, arrests remain at 0.01% of the total attendances.
The figures also reflect the improved fan behaviour at England matches both at
home and abroad, with arrests falling from 261 to 70. At Euro 2004, a
total of 50,000 English supporters attended matches, with only one arrest.
UEFA recognised the huge contribution made to the tournament by England fans
by awarding them a mark of 9/10.
Legendary Tottenham Hotspur manager Bill Nicholson, who guided Spurs to the
first league and Cup Double of the 20th century, has died at the age of 85.
Nicholson led his team to the First Division title and FA Cup in 1960-61, having
taken over as manager in 1958. The Yorkshireman had represented Spurs during his
playing career, and won a solitary England cap in 1951. After resigning as
Spurs boss in 1974, he continued to live nearby and became the club's honorary
president. Nicholson died after a long illness in a Hertfordshire
hospital. Tottenham Hotspur were set to hold a minute's silence before the
Premiership game against Bolton Wanderers at White Hart Lane.
Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan has revealed he is near to calling
time on his career in management in England. "I am coming to the end
of my time as a manager in this country," said Keegan, who joined City in 2001.
"Maybe there will be something somewhere else for me in the future. But you
never know.
Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand has admitted he contemplated turning his
back on playing for England. Ferdinand, banned for eight months by the FA
after missing a drugs test, said he had initially been angry enough to quit
international football. "I was really bitter and if someone had asked me
if I'd play for England again, I'd have said no," Ferdinand told MUTV.
"But as time passes, you come to your senses - you remind yourself that every
kid wants to play for their country."
East Stirlingshire are hoping to sign former England star Paul Gascoigne.
The Scottish Third Division side have made the bold move to sign Gascoigne, who
left League Two side Boston United earlier this month. Manager Dennis
Newall hopes the 37-year-old will be at their match with Peterhead on Saturday.
UEFA president Lennart Johansson says the Football Association is right
not to further punish England captain David Beckham for his deliberate booking.
The FA decided there was insufficient evidence to charge Beckham over his foul
on Wales' Ben Thatcher. Johnasson said: "I think the FA's decision was right.
I admire Beckham for having the courage to say 'I did it'. But it worries me
that Beckham is an idol and what he does, the young ones do."
Friday, 22 October 2004 -
Sven-Göran Eriksson has praised
England's defence and new first-choice goalkeeper Paul Robinson after clean
sheets against Wales and Azerbaijan. Eriksson told the Football
Association website: "The two clean sheets we had were extremely pleasing. They
were very good for our goalkeeper too. Our whole defence is playing very
well. I can't see any reason why I should change any of them. Robinson has
done very well since he's come in. If I had a qualification game tomorrow,
I would keep the same backline."
Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry is likely to be sidelined
for two months after suffering a knee injury in the 3-1 defeat at Arsenal. Villa
hoped Barry would be back in two weeks after sustaining knee ligament damage in
a challenge with Lauren. But scans have revealed the injury is worse that first
thought and he now faces a lengthy spell out of action.
Gillingham's Iwan Roberts has accused the Football Association of
double standards for failing to punish David Beckham for a deliberate booking.
Roberts got a £2,500 fine and a three-match ban after admitting in his book to a
stamping on Kevin Muscat in 1998. "It leaves a bitter taste. There has to be
some consistency," said Roberts. "I'm very disappointed. It seems we have
both done exactly the same thing, but I have been fined £2,500 and David has got
nothing. I don't want to see people suspended and fined but there has got
to be a bit of consistency. We did consider an appeal but we withdrew
that, but now it does leave a bitter taste in my mouth. They said they
didn't have enough evidence, but David admitted he had done it on purpose, which
is exactly what I did. I have played 700 games in my career, been sent off
twice and never been before the FA. I've got a good disciplinary record and I'm
disappointed with the way things have been handled."
Thursday, 21 October 2004 -
Alan Shearer's late penalty got Newcastle's UEFA Cup group stage off to a
winning start against Greek side Panionios.
Jermaine Jenas had a
significant part to play in United's victory, which also featured Lee Bowyer.
Steve McClaren's Middlesbrough also won in Greece, against Aigaleo.
Substitute and England under-21 starlet, Stewart Downing gave Boro the perfect
start to their UEFA Cup Group E campaign. Soon after coming off the bench
Downing picked up a Ray Parlour pass and arrowed a low shot into the corner past
the Aigaleo goalkeeper. Colin Cooper and Gareth Southgate kept the Greek's at
bay.
England skipper David Beckham has escaped disciplinary action for his deliberate
yellow card against Wales. The Football Association decided there was
"insufficient evidence" to charge the England captain with disrepute but
"reminded him of his responsibilities". The FA said in a statement: "The
Football Association has today written to David Beckham in relation to the
incident that led to his yellow card against Wales on 9 October and subsequent
comments attributed to him in a national newspaper. Following due process
under the FA's disciplinary regulations, the FA's compliance department has
reviewed all the available information and concluded that there is insufficient
evidence to pursue a disciplinary charge. However, David Beckham has been
reminded of his responsibilities and the rules of conduct he is expected to
adhere to both as an England player and as captain. The FA now considers
this matter to be closed."
Wednesday, 20 October 2004 -
Another evening of European football in the UEFA Champions League:
John
Terry scores for Chelsea as they beat CSKA Moscow 2-0, a game that also starred
Wayne Bridge and Frank Lampard, with substitute appearances from Joe Cole and
Scott Parker. Arsenal draw away to Panathinaikos, with Ashley Cole and Sol
Campbell having roles to play.
In League One, Peter Taylor's Hull City beat Milton Keynes
Dons to retake 4th spot in the table, and Roy McFarland's Chesterfield beat
Stockport County to climb to 7th.
Tuesday, 19 October 2004 -
An evening of football in the UEFA Champions League:
Chris Kirkland and Jamie Carragher could only help Liverpool to a scoreless draw over Deportivo La Coruna.
Michael Owen starts for Real, and plays for 65 minutes, as well scoring his
first goal, as Real Madrid beat Dynamo Kiev by the single goal. Gary
Neville, Wes Brown, Paul Scholes or
Wayne Rooney could not help
Manchester United beat Sparta Prague, it ended scoreless.
In the Championship, Steve Coppell's Reading draw with Leeds
United to stay 2nd place, followed by Joe Royle's Ipswich Town side, who drew
with Leicester City, who are temporarily coached by Howard Wilkinson. Teddy Sheringham scored to take
West Ham United 5th. Dennis Wise takes Millwall to 7th following their
away win over Gillingham. Peter Reid's Coventry City could only draw away
to Burnley. City climb to 18th. In League One, leaders Luton Town
lose to Paul Merson's Walsall. Colin Todd's Bradford City remain 3rd after
defeating Blackpool. Brian Little's Tranmere Rovers climb to 5th after beating
Huddersfield Town. Brian Talbot's Oldham Athletic climb to 20th after
drawing with Bristol City. In League Two, Keith Curle's Mansfield Town
slip up and drop to 5th following defeat at Cheltenham Town. Tony Adams'
Wycombe Wanderers climb to 10th after drawing with Rushden & Diamonds.
While Graham Rix's Oxford United lose at Northampton Town and drop to 16th.
Tottenham Hotspur captain Jamie Redknapp has asked the Football
Association for a personal hearing after being charged with violent conduct.
He could face a three-match ban for a challenge he made on Everton's Tim Cahill
in Tottenham's 1-0 win at Goodison Park earlier this month.
Charlton Athletic captain Matt Holland has said that he would welcome a move to
bring back ex-Addicks star Scott
Parker. Parker left The Valley for Chelsea in January but has only had
8 minutes of first-team action this season. "He is a terrific player and you
want the team to be as strong as possible - so of course you would want him
back," Holland said. "I don't think he fell out with any of the players,
although I don't know about the fans."
David Beckham could be fined £100,000 but will escape a ban for getting booked
deliberately against Wales, according to newspaper reports. The newspaper
adds he "seems certain to retain the England captaincy". Beckham faces an
FA inquiry and was criticised by FIFA after he fouled Ben Thatcher to earn a
second yellow card. That meant he could miss the World Cup qualifier
against Azerbaijan, a match he would have had to miss in any event after
breaking two ribs against Wales. The FA's compliance unit have considered
Beckham's explanation of events and are ready to act, with an announcement
expected before the end of the week.
Monday, 18 October 2004 -
Manchester United will be without England defender Rio Ferdinand for the
Champions League trip to Sparta Prague on Tuesday. Ferdinand has stayed
behind to attend his grandmother's funeral. Sir Alex Ferguson is expected
to give Wayne Rooney a start to build up the teenage striker's fitness.
Leicester City winger Jason Wilcox may miss the rest of the season after
sustaining suspected cruciate knee ligament damage. Wilcox, who joined the
Foxes on a one-year deal in July from Leeds United, was stretchered off in the
draw against Coventry City on Saturday.
Real Madrid are confident that summer signing Jonathan Woodgate's first game for
the club will be worth the wait. The ex-Newcastle United defender had been
on the verge of his Real debut before discovering that a torn thigh muscle may
rule him out until Christmas. But Real sporting director Emilio Butragueno
said: "He's a player for the team - both for now and the future - and is worth
waiting for. "In our opinion, he's one of the best players in that
position in the world."
Birmingham City defender Matthew
Upson says he needs European exposure if he wants to add to his six England
caps. Upson has impressed since joining from Arsenal 21 months ago but is behind
the likes of Sol Campbell and John
Terry in the England pecking order.
Sunday, 17 October 2004 -
Glasgow Rangers aim to negotiate a compromise with Everton to try and free
Michael Ball from a clause in his contract. Ball joined Glasgow Rangers
from Everton for £6.5m in August 2001 and he is sidelined as the Scottish club
want to avoid triggering a £500,000 payment. "Both ourselves and the
player's agent have been talking to the Goodison club," said Rangers boss Alex
McLeish. "This situation isn't doing anyone any good. We are considering a
variety of things but we need to be creative."
Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard is ahead of schedule in his recovery from a
broken metatarsal bone. The England international has targeted the
Champions League match against Deportivo La Coruna on 3 November for his return.
It was initially feared Gerrard would be out for two months after picking up the
injury against Manchester United last month.
Sven-Göran Eriksson said he would
look at David Beckham's future as England captain if the Real Madrid star "lost
all the confidence of the players". But the England coach said Beckham's
'deliberate' booking against Wales would not have a long-term effect on his
standing in the game. "The reputation of Beckham is that he is not a rough,
unfair player," he told the News of the World newspaper. "I would say he
has always had a good relationship with referees."
Ben Thatcher believes it is time to end the furore surrounding David
Beckham's controversial tackle on him. The England captain faces an FA
inquiry and was criticised by Fifa after he admitted he fouled Thatcher on
purpose. "I don't want him banned or censored, or for there to be this
outrcry," the Wales defender told The People. "He didn't hurt me. He's not
a dirty player. The sooner Fifa step out of it then, it's finished. As far as
I'm concerned it's finished."
Saturday, 16 October 2004 -
In the Premiership, a surprise Lee Hendrie goal for
Aston Villa shook up Arsenal, but the Champions comeback and win 3-1, extending
their unbeaten league run to 49 matches. Steve McClaren's Middlesbrough
thrash Blackburn Rovers and Kevin Keegan's Manchester City end Chelsea's
unbeaten run. In the Championship, Steve Coppell's Reading remain in 2nd place
after beating Stoke City, Joe Royle's Ipswich Town drop to 4th following a draw
with Burnley, Dennis Wise's Millwall lose to Sunderland, and Peter Reid's
Coventry City draw Leicester City, who's goal is scored by Dion Dublin, and are
presently coached by Howard Wilkinson. In League One, Colin Todd takes his Bradford City to 3rd spot
following a sensational 5-4 win over Brian Little's Tranmere Rovers, Peter
Taylor's Hull City drop to 4th after losing to Bristol City, Roy McFarland's
Chesterfield lose to Hartlepool United, Brian Talbot's Oldham Athletic lose to
Swindon Town, and Paul Merson's Walsall draw at Wrexham. League Two: Keith
Curle's Mansfield Town stay 4th after beating Notts County, Graham Rix's Oxford
United lose to Lincoln City and Tony Adams' Wycombe Wanderers lose at Boston
United.
Friday, 15 October 2004 -
The Football Association has written to David Beckham asking for an explanation
about the controversy surrounding his yellow card against Wales.
England defender Ledley King has won the Barclays Player of
the Month for September following his performances for Tottenham Hotspur.
The Football Association has submitted a bid to host the Champions League final
at Wembley in 2007. And it also hopes to stage the UEFA Cup final at the City of
Manchester Stadium in either 2006 or 2007. The new Wembley is expected to be
completed in 2006, and is seen as the perfect stage for the showpiece final. FA
Chairman Geoff Thompson said: "We are delighted to be able to nominate two such
excellent stadiums. We believe they would be wonderful hosts."
Tony Adams is considering moving abroad to further his coaching career
when his contract at Wycombe Wanderers expires in 2006. The former England
captain is keen not to be labelled a lower-league boss. "The style of
management at the top level is very different from the style of management of
where I am today and that worries me. Maybe when my time is up here I may
have to go into Europe because you do more coaching in those countries."
Steve Bruce believes Wayne
Rooney needs to produce the goods on a consistent basis before being
compared to Manchester United icon Eric Cantona. Bruce played with Cantona
at United for four years as the enigmatic Frenchman helped United to a string of
honours. "We all know Rooney is fantastic," said Birmingham City boss
Bruce. "We all know the potential of the boy for 18 is scary. But to
compare him with Cantona would be unfair. Eric did it over years and it was a
privilege to play with him."
Thursday, 14 October 2004 -
Michael Owen is being tipped to emulate Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid despite a
tough start to his career in Spain. Owen scored for England in Azerbaijan
and Real's sporting director Emilio Butragueno told BBC Sport that he compared
him to the French maestro. "I remember when Zidane came here -
expectations were extremely high. People started to criticise us after a month.
Now it's the same thing. What Zidane did speaks for itself. We expect Michael to
be a similar success."
Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan hopes to welcome striker Robbie Fowler
back into the first team for the Carling Cup tie against Arsenal on 27 October.
Fowler, 29, last played in last month's loss against Everton and was told to
undergo a personal fitness regime. Keegan told the club website: "There
are no problems with Robbie and the Carling Cup will be the perfect game to
bring him back. Nobody has worked harder than Robbie lately, it'll give
him a fresh start."
West Ham United have extended former England defender Chris Powell's loan
from Charlton Athletic by another month.
Wednesday, 13 October 2004 -
Azerbaijan 0 England 1:
England's stand-in captain Michael Owen led from the front by heading the winner
in the World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan. Owen, deputising for the injured
and suspended David Beckham in Baku, stole in on Ashley Cole's cross to head
home after 21 minutes.
Northern Ireland drew with Austria. Poland came back to
beat Wales in Mark Hughes' final match.
David Beckham has issued a formal apology for admitting he
deliberately picked up a yellow card against Wales. Beckham confessed he
got himself booked so he would be suspended against Azerbaijan - knowing he
would miss the game anyway through injury. Beckham said: "I was asked a
question and made a frank and honest admission to counter the negative
speculation. I now know that was wrong and apologise to the FA, the
England coach, my team-mates and all England fans. I have also apologised
personally to my manager
Sven-Göran Eriksson.
I know that as captain you are in a privileged position and must always abide by Fifa's code of fair play, something which I have always done throughout my
career."
Jermaine Jenas is in line to make
his first start for England as a surprise replacement for David Beckham in Baku.
Owen Hargreaves had been tipped to fill in if, as expected, Sven-Goran Eriksson
persists with a 4-3-1-2 formation. But Jenas played on the right side of a
midfield three in a training match on Tuesday, with the rest of the team
identical to that which beat Wales.
David Beckham faces up to four weeks on the sidelines after breaking two
ribs. Real Madrid's doctor Juan Carlos Hernandez told the club's website
the injury was worse than first thought. "Beckham has two hairline
fractures, which make it difficult for him to walk and even lie down," said
Hernandez. Beckham will miss four games in La Liga but will be back
for England's friendly with Spain on 17 November.
FIFA president Sepp Blatter has joined the criticism of David Beckham over
his deliberate booking against Wales. Blatter, in Baku for England's World Cup
qualifier against Azerbaijan, said: "It's disappointing. "It is not the
behaviour that befits an ambassador of football and fair play. Beckham is a role
model. I will be having a word with Geoff Thompson about the situation
while I am in Baku. After that it is not up to FIFA."
The memorial service for former Nottingham Forest and Derby County boss
Brian Clough has been switched to
Pride Park Stadium from Derby Cathedral. Clough's wife Barbara asked for
the service to be moved due to the overwhelming demand for tickets. Canon
Nicholas Henshall said: "This is a wonderful comment about Brian's achievement
in the region." The service on 21 October, which starts at 1930 BST, will
remember the life of Clough, who died of cancer aged 69.
Tuesday, 12 October 2004 -
Nigel Reo-Coker was sent off as England's 100% record in qualifying for the 2006
UEFA Under-21 finals ended. The West Ham United midfielder and
Azerbaijan's Elnur Abdullayev were red-carded after a flare-up which led to a
15-man brawl. England almost snatched victory when Jon Stead hit the
crossbar and then James Milner and Glen Johnson had efforts cleared off the
line. Stead had a goal ruled out for offside after 30 minutes.
England coach
Sven-Göran Eriksson could take action
after skipper David Beckham's revelation that he deliberately got booked against
Wales. Eriksson said: "I'll deal with that after this game. I know what
I'll do on Thursday or Friday so wait until then. I don't think it's fair
on the team if we're talking about a player that is injured and suspended."
David Beckham has admitted deliberately getting booked against Wales in order to
get his suspension out of the way. England's captain, who was a yellow
card away from a one-game ban, said he knew he had broken ribs in an earlier
tackle and would be out for a month. "It was deliberate," he told The
Daily Telegraph. "I knew I will be out for a few weeks, so I thought 'Let's get
the yellow card out of the way'. FIFA has yet to comment on whether it
will take any action or not. "I'm sure some people think that I have not
got the brains to be that clever. But I do have the brains. I could feel
the injury. So I fouled Thatcher." Meanwhile, Real Madrid are
targeting Tuesday's Champions League tie against Dynamo Kiev for David Beckham's
return.
Michael Carrick is hopeful of making the squad for Tottenham Hotspur's
trip to Portsmouth on Monday. Carrick has been recovering from an ankle
injury since joining Spurs for £3m from West Ham in the summer. But after
lasting an hour in a friendly against Leyton Orient and then playing for the
reserves on Monday, the 23-year-old is ready for his full debut. He said:
"I would love to be involved on Monday. Hopefully I've shown that I'm fit and
I'll see what happens."
Former England midfielder Paul Gascoigne has been ruled out of the race to
become manager of Morton - because he lacks coaching credentials.
Gascoigne sent his CV to the Second Division club's chairman, Douglas Rae.
But Rae told the Sun newspaper: "I wrote to Gazza stressing that we were unable
to consider him because of his lack of qualifications." Gascoigne, who
quit as player-coach of Boston United, was also linked with Cowdenbeath and
Raith Rovers. Meanwhile, Gascoigne says he is no longer the practical
joker and boozer people associate with him and needs to make a break from that
image. "I'm a different person now. I'm not Paul Gascoigne and I'm not
Gazza," he told the Sunday Times. "A new name will help. It'll stop people
thinking about what I was then and think about what I am now. It's
important because I have to get my reputation back up. I need to get respect
again. That's why I think the Paul has to go."
Leicester City have appointed former FA technical director Howard
Wilkinson as a temporary first-team coach. Wilkinson has stepped in
following the departures of manager Micky Adams and coach Alan Cork on Monday.
Director of football Dave Bassett, who has taken over as caretaker boss, has
turned to Wilkinson to help out.
Monday, 11 October 2004 -
Jonathan Woodgate does not need an operation on his torn thigh muscle but is
expected to be out for 10 weeks. There were fears the Real Madrid defender may
need surgery which would rule him out for the season after a recurrence of his
injury in training. But a visit to a specialist clinic in America has eased
those concerns. "These 10 weeks are the time we estimate will be necessary to
guarantee proper healing," said Real doctor Alfonso Del Corral.
Scott Parker has
turned down the chance to join Championship pacesetters Wigan Athletic, despite
a £25,000 per week wage promise, Parker wants to remain in London.
Sunday, 10 October 2004 -
England's players are backing Wayne
Rooney to be the catalyst for another World Cup qualifying win when they
take on Azerbaijan on Wednesday.
Michael Owen is set to take the captain's armband on Wednesday in Baku.
Owen said: "The last time I captained the team I think I scored two goals, so
hopefully that's a good omen - we're in great heart, despite David's injury.
If I am captain it will be a great honour, although obviously I would prefer it
if we had David Beckham in the team, especially after he proved his quality with
the great goal."
David Beckham could be sidelined for up to six weeks after
suffering a hairline fracture of a rib in England's 2-0 World Cup qualifying win
over Wales. Beckham will return to Real Madrid on Wednesday and start
light training. Shaun
Wright-Phillips has no idea whether he will replace the suspended and
injured Beckham in Azerbaijan on Wednesday. "I have not thought about it.
The gaffer picks the team at the end of the day and I'm just going to work hard
in training. To play in a competitive match would be like a dream for me.
I have got my fingers crossed. I like to think I can do a job at
international level."
Fifa has officially credited Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard
with England's first goal in Saturday's victory.
League One football includes Peter Taylor's Hull City beat Roy
McFarland's Chesterfield. Brian Talbot's Oldham Athletic are beaten by
Blackpool. In League Two, Graham Rix's Oxford United are beaten by David
Hodgson.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits he might have rushed Paul
Scholes into action too quickly. Midfielder Scholes played on United's
American pre-season tour - a month after playing for England in Euro 2004.
Despite Scholes' retirement from international football, Ferguson admitted:
"People have remarked that Paul looks a bit flat. We brought him back too early
from pre-season training - he only had three days preparation and a groin
injury."
Saturday, 9 October 2004 -
England 2 Wales 0:
David Beckham scored a spectacular goal to seal England a comfortable World Cup
qualifying victory. Michael Owen inadvertently put England ahead from
their first attack as Frank Lampard's shot flew in off his heel. England
go top of Group 6. Captain David Beckham suffered a hairline fracture of a
rib during the victory, he was hurt in an aerial challenge with Ben Thatcher.
Beckham had been given the all-clear but a second X-ray revealed the damage.
Azerbaijan drew 0-0 with Northern Ireland. Poland beat
Austria 3-1 in Vienna. England remain the only unbeaten team in Group 6.
League One football: Paul Merson's Walsall beat Colchester
United.
Jonathan Woodgate is confident he will shrug off his
persistent thigh injury and prove a hit at Real Madrid.
Friday, 8 October 2004 -
England Under-21s secured victory over Wales with two second half goals.
England dominated the first period, Carlton Cole and Darren Bent both firing
shots wide before Wales' David Vaughan slammed a shot off the post. But
the hosts took the lead just after the break when Jermaine Pennant chipped the
ball into James Milner's path and the forward lashed past Lewis Price.
After Jon Stead had clipped the bar Bent doubled the lead, heading in Stewart
Downing's right-wing centre.
League One football see's Colin Todd's Bradford City go 5th
place after an away win over Milton Keynes Dons. In League Two, Tony
Adam's Wycombe Wanderers lose to Scunthorpe United and Keith Curle's Mansfield
Town lose to Swansea City.
Sven-Göran Eriksson has admitted he
is considering playing three strikers in England's World Cup tie with Wales.
The Swede said he may play Jermain Defoe and
Michael Owen at the front with Wayne
Rooney just behind them.
Real Madrid's doctor warned the club they were taking a risk in signing
the injury-plagued Jonathan Woodgate. The defender, who has yet to play
for Real, is to undergo treatment for a recurring thigh injury in the US.
The doctor, Alfonso del Corral, told Spanish newspaper Diaro AS: "We told the
club the player was arriving with a risk in the front of his thigh muscle.
I give the technical information and transmit the real physical state of the
player because that is my obligation. I cannot say no to the club signing
a player and I would never send a report saying `this lad won't play again'."
England coach
Sven-Göran Eriksson expects to have a
fully fit squad to choose from for the World Cup qualifier against Wales on
Saturday. The whole squad trained at Old Trafford on Friday, including
Michael Owen, who has had a hamstring injury, and another doubt, goalkeeper
David James.
Thursday, 7 October 2004 -
Wales midfielder Jason Koumas has come through training unscathed and is fit for
Saturday's match with England. Koumas had been struggling all week with an
ankle injury but gave boss Mark Hughes a timely boost on Thursday.
England defender Jonathan Woodgate's first appearance for Real Madrid could be
put on hold after the defender limped out of training. The 24-year-old had
been set to play for Real in a friendly match against Alcorcon on Tuesday.
But that now looks in doubt after the centre-back left the training session
early with a leg injury.
England striker Michael Owen appears to be fit for Saturday's World Cup
qualifier against Wales after looking in good form in training on Thursday.
Keeper David James was unable to train after waking up to find a build-up of
fluid on his knee.
Wednesday, 6 October 2004 -
England remain 7th in the
FIFA rankings.
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Michael Carrick scored on Wednesday as he
continued his return to fitness from a sprained ankle. The 23-year-old struck
against Leyton Orient in a 3-2 friendly win - his first action since playing for
Spurs reserves on 31 August.
Steven Gerrard said he hoped to return to action on schedule after
Wednesday's operation on his fractured foot. "No-one likes to go into
hospital for an operation, but if it's going to get me back playing on schedule
it's better for me, by having a screw inserted in my foot, the bone will set in
place and heal a lot quicker. I'm still looking at another six weeks from now."
Fulham striker Andy Cole has been suspended for a further three games by
the FA. Cole was also fined £10,000 on top of his original three-match ban
after his sending off at West Bromwich Albion. The 32-year-old was
involved in a fracas during an ill-tempered affair at the Hawthorns and threw
punches after clashing with Neil Clement. An FA hearing decided to ban him for
two matches for abusive language and another match for violent conduct.
Michael Owen successfully came through a training session ahead of
England's World Cup qualifier against Wales. The Real Madrid striker has a
niggling hamstring injury and trained on his own with physio Gary Lewin on
Wednesday. Owen has until Thursday to prove his fitness and if he
recovers, coach
Sven-Göran Eriksson must decide whether to play him or
Jermain Defoe up front. Eriksson also has to replace Steven Gerrard, while
defenders Rio Ferdinand and Sol Campbell are set to start. Owen expects to
rejoin the rest of the squad for training on Thursday and is confident he will
be fit in time for Saturday's game against Wales.
Striker Gareth Taylor and midfielder Andy Johnson have been released from the
Wales squad and returned to their clubs to recover from injury. Neither of
the two were likely to start against England in Saturday's World Cup qualifier
at Old Trafford. But their absence further limits manager Mark Hughes'
options, who has already lost Rob Page and Rhys Weston.
Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren has received a boost to the club's
injury crisis with Ugo Ehiogu's return. England defender Ehiogu played a
full 90 minutes for Boro's reserves in a 3-1 defeat by Manchester City. A
niggling calf injury has restricted Ehiogu to just two first-team appearances
this season.
Former Chelsea manager John Hollins says he would like to fill the vacant
position at Raith Rovers, less than two weeks after resigning from the club.
Hollins left his job there after becoming unhappy with Claude Anelka's
interference in team selection. Anelka is now director of football and
Hollins says he would like to return.
Paul Gascoigne has admitted he was frustrated by his spell with Boston
United. The former England midfielder spent two months as a player-coach
with the League Two side but left to embark on a Football Association coaching
course. "I went to Boston to further my education, but it didn't work out
the way I was told it was going to. I didn't think I was getting along as
much as I wanted and I wanted to improve on the coaching side."
Tuesday, 5 October 2004 -
England will play Spain in a friendly in Madrid on 17 November, the Spanish
Football Federation has announced. The match will take place at Real
Madrid's ground the Santiago Bernabeu.
Liverpool and England midfielder Steven Gerrard will undergo surgery on
his broken foot on Wednesday. Gerrard will have a screw inserted into the
broken bone after being told on Tuesday that an operation was needed.
Paul Gascoigne has quit his position as player-coach of Boston United
after just over two months at York Street. The 37-year-old former England
midfielder plans to complete a coaching course at Lilleshall before trying to
get a player-manager role. "I've left on professional terms. I just think
I needed to extend my career on the coaching side," Gascoigne said.
Wayne Rooney has been shortlisted
for the Fifa World Player of the Year award which will be decided in December.
Rooney, 18, is one of 10 players from the 35 contenders who play their football
in the Premiership. Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, David Beckham and
Michael Owen are also on the list.
Former England assistant manager John Gorman has agreed to join the Gillingham
coaching staff following the departure of Wayne Jones. Gorman, who has
also managed Swindon and Wycombe, will link up with the Priestfield side on
Wednesday.
Jonathan Woodgate is itching to return to action with Real Madrid after
recovering from a thigh injury. The 24-year-old defender has started
training again in Spain and is eager to make his first start for Real since his
£13.4m move from Newcastle United in August.
Michael Owen insists he can deliver for England in the World Cup qualifier
against Wales, despite his stuttering start at Real Madrid.
Jermain Defoe is threatening
Owen's starting place for the clash at Old Trafford on Saturday. He sits
out training today.
Everton boss David Moyes says he does not want Tottenham Hotspur
midfielder Jamie Redknapp punished further for his bad tackle on Tim Cahill on
Saturday. The Football Association has charged Redknapp, who was booked
for the foul that resulted in Cahill going off. Redknapp faces a
three-game ban and has two weeks in which to appeal.
Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp will not bring former Arsenal player Martin
Keown to Fratton Park to help solve his defensive crisis. Redknapp looked
at the 38-year-old defender when he left Highbury but he will not renew his
interest now Keown has been released by Leicester City.
Aston Villa manager David O'Leary is demanding a considerable improvement
from Gareth Barry after a disappointing start to the season. "I was told
in the year before I came here, when Villa nearly got relegated, that Gareth was
outstanding for the team," said O'Leary of the 23-year-old.
Monday, 4 October 2004 -
The Football Association has charged Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Jamie Redknapp
with serious foul play. The move follows his challenge on Everton's Tim
Cahill in Saturday's 1-0 win over the Toffees at Goodison Park.
Southampton striker James Beattie
has been ruled out of action for six weeks after fracturing his toe during
Saints' draw with Manchester City on Saturday. The club confirmed an X-ray
showed the 26-year-old had fractured the little toe of his left foot. Beattie
has been Saints' main goal threat this season, striking twice and his absence
will not help the club add to their single Premiership win. Graeme Le Saux also
suffered a knee injury but the club are optimistic. Under-pressure Southampton
boss Steve Wigley faces a growing injury list. Kevin Phillips also picked up a
minor niggle. But the break for international games should give Phillips'
finger plenty of time to recover.
Birmingham City expect striker Emile Heskey to make a swift return from the
ankle injury he picked up during Sunday's 2-2 draw with Newcastle United. The
26-year-old has been suffering with an ankle problem for the last month and a
aggravated it further on Sunday.
Michael Owen will be fit for England's World Cup qualifier against
Wales on Saturday after being hurt making his home debut for Real Madrid.
Owen came off after 52 minutes of Real's 1-0 defeat by Deportivo on Sunday with
what coach Mariano Garcia Remon called a "slight muscle problem." Owen's
starting place against Wales was already in doubt because of his lack of action
in La Liga this season. His fitness will be assessed by England's medical
staff on Tuesday.
Sunday, 3 October 2004 -
Sven-Göran Eriksson has named Rio
Ferdinand, Wayne Rooney and Sol
Campbell in his squad for the World Cup qualifiers
against Wales and Azerbaijan.
Wayne Rooney makes his
Premiership debut, but Manchester United can only manage a draw with Steve
McClaren's Middlesbrough, Alan Smith getting United's equalising goal.
Elsewhere, a 2-2 draw between Birmingham City and Newcastle United,
Jermaine Jenas and Nicky Butt
scoring for United, Matthew Upson
grabbing one of City's. A Joe Cole goal gives Chelsea a win over
Liverpool. In the Championship, Joe Royle takes his Ipswich
Town to the top of the table by defeating Peter Reid's Coventry City.
Chris Sutton gets 2 of Celtic's goals in their 3-0 win over Dundee in the SPL,
as Terry Butcher's Motherwell draw away to Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has not ruled
out re-signing Michael Owen. He said: "I think new Fifa rules say you
cannot transfer the one player twice in the same season. We need to wait until
the summer."
Southampton expect James Beattie
to be out of action for at least a month with a suspected broken toe.
Brian Talbot has hinted that he might consider his position
as Oldham Athletic boss after their 2-0 defeat at Brentford. "That
performance was not acceptable, not good enough. I can see that."
Saturday, 2 October 2004 -
England coach Sven-Göran Eriksson
believes Rio Ferdinand is a perfect candidate to captain his country. The
defender will return to the squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Wales and
Azerbaijan after completing his eight-month ban. And Eriksson said: "I
have no intention at the moment to change captains, but I'm sure Rio Ferdinand
is a leader. He talks and that's important. A captain must be a player who
the others are prepared to listen to."
Premiership football: Kevin Keegan's Manchester City manage a scoreless draw
away to Southampton, James Beattie
suffering a broken toe after 18 minutes. Championship: Steve Coppell's Reading lose their
position at the top after a scoreless draw against Burnley, a single Teddy Sheringham goal takes West Ham United 5th after they beat Wolverhampton
Wanderers. League One: Brian Little's Tranmere Rovers go 3rd after
drawing 1-1 with Luton Town, Peter Taylor's Hull City are 5th after being beaten
by Hartlepool United, Roy McFarland's Chesterfield are 6th after a 2-2 draw with
Bristol City, elsewhere, Colin Todd's Bradford City beat Barnsley, Brian
Talbot's Oldham Athletic beaten by Brentford, Paul Merson's Walsall are beaten
by Huddersfield Town. League Two: Tony Adams' Wycombe Wanderers draw with
Swansea City and are 5th, Keith Curle's Mansfield Town draw with Lincoln City,
but Graham Rix's Oxford Unted lose to Bristol Rovers.
England defender Wes Brown looks set to leave Manchester United in January after
rejecting a new contract. The 24-year-old will become a free agent in the
summer, but United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said he hoped to recoup some money
for the player. Ferguson told the Guardian newspaper: "We've made the boy
an offer and he's turned it down. It's his decision. There are no more
talks planned that I'm aware of. We'd like to avoid the situation where he
leaves on a free."
Friday, 1 October 2004 -
England coach Sven-Göran Eriksson will recall Rio Ferdinand to his squad for two
upcoming World Cup qualifiers but issued a warning to Michael Owen. He must prove he
merits a place in his side for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. The 24-year-old
has hardly played for Real Madrid since switching from Liverpool during the
summer. "Of course, it's not good for him, me or England if he plays too little
football at the moment," said Eriksson. "I don't have an answer to myself yet -
we'll see if he plays on Sunday and then I want to see him in training."
Leicester City have placed veteran defender Martin Keown on the transfer list.
But the Foxes denied sacking the 38-year-old after widespread reports that Keown
had a bust-up with manager Micky Adams over the running of the team. "Martin has
been told he is free to leave the club on a free transfer," said a club
spokesman.
Manchester United have delayed Ryan Giggs' arrival with Wales for the 9
October World Cup game with England. The Wales squad meet in Cardiff on
Monday, but United have invoked Fifa's four-day rule meaning that Giggs will not
join the party until Wednesday. A Football Association of Wales spokesman
said that manager Mark Hughes is furious with the news. England's squad
are due to meet on Tuesday and it is unclear whether United's players will be
released.
West Bromwich Albion chairman Jeremy Peace has angrily denied claims that
he has approached Sir Bobby Robson to take over as manager. Current boss
Gary Megson's position has been the subject of speculation, and reports
suggested Peace had lined up Robson, 71, to step in. But he said: "I've had no
contact with Sir Bobby Robson".
___________________
CG
England Football Online