Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Kick it Out free app launched
The Kick It Out campaign has launched a free app to make reporting racism at grounds easier.
Kick It Out director Roisin Wood says it will give supporters the confidence to report discriminatory behaviour to the relevant authorities.
In a survey conducted last season, Kick It Out said that two thirds of 5,000 supporters questioned had witnessed racist or homophobic chanting at games.
Grenier no-look goal
Everton spell new signing Gerard Deulofeu’s name wrong
Andrew Henderson tricks
Cisse dons Wonga strip for first time
Newcastle striker Papiss Cisse donned the club's controversial 'Wonga' strip for the first time, as he started and scored in the club's pre-season friendly at St Mirren.
Cisse had earlier broken his silence in his row over new club sponsor Wonga, revealing he consulted Islamic teachers before deciding to pull on the team's new shirt.
Ribery’s problem with tall mascot
Messi pictured in Las Vegas with mystery blonde
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Leonardo's six-touch masterpiece
Barton is ‘footballer British men would most like to punch’
Joey Barton has been voted the ‘most punchable’ footballer in England - despite having spent the past 12 months out of the country.
The controversial QPR midfielder, who spent last season on loan at French side Marseille, is rarely backwards in coming forwards with his opinions, which he voices vigorously on Twitter.
But it seems his opinionated nature off the pitch, coupled with his aggressive style of play on it, has made him less popular than even the likes of John Terry, Wayne Rooney and Luis Suarez, according to readers of AskMen.
The ‘Great Male Survey’ was carried out by the men’s online magazine and more than 70,000 people responded to the question: ‘Which of the following would you be most inclined to punch in the face if there were no consequences?’
The results were as follows:
1. Joey Barton - 32%
2. John Terry - 29%
3. Wayne Rooney - 22%
4. Luis Suarez - 17%
The controversial QPR midfielder, who spent last season on loan at French side Marseille, is rarely backwards in coming forwards with his opinions, which he voices vigorously on Twitter.
But it seems his opinionated nature off the pitch, coupled with his aggressive style of play on it, has made him less popular than even the likes of John Terry, Wayne Rooney and Luis Suarez, according to readers of AskMen.
The ‘Great Male Survey’ was carried out by the men’s online magazine and more than 70,000 people responded to the question: ‘Which of the following would you be most inclined to punch in the face if there were no consequences?’
The results were as follows:
1. Joey Barton - 32%
2. John Terry - 29%
3. Wayne Rooney - 22%
4. Luis Suarez - 17%
Heynckes beaten by female fan in contest
Nike spell Papiss Cisse’s name wrong
Monday, July 29, 2013
Nile Ranger gets new tattoo of his own name – on his forehead
Bayern Munich fan walks 600 miles
Bosnian Bayern Munich fan Vahid Cehaja made an impressive claim for supporter of the century after walking 600 miles from his homeland to the Allianz Arena to honour the club’s fifth European Cup success.
‘In honor of the fifth Bayern title I walked from Bugojno to Munich. I wanted to show respect to all those [players] who have so far won titles with Bayern Munich,’ he said.
‘In honor of the fifth Bayern title I walked from Bugojno to Munich. I wanted to show respect to all those [players] who have so far won titles with Bayern Munich,’ he said.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Coupe du monde de powerchair football 2011
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Chelsea store gaffes again
Marseille edge Toulon 36-35 in bizarre ‘half football half rugby’ match
Marseille have scored a victory for football after beating rugby outfit Toulon 36-35 in a bizarre half-football half-rugby match at the Stade Mayol.
The mad fixture was cooked up by a local charity with the aim of deciding which sport was best out of football and rugby union - while raising a few pounds for a good cause in the process.
Two of France’s heavyweight teams signed up it, with Marseille taking on the honour of representing football, while Toulon accepted the challenge of defending rugby.
Eric Cantona refereed clash, which saw both teams play a first half of football, followed by a second period of rugby to decide the tie.
Hazard uses Instagram to reject marriage proposal from Chelsea fan
Britain’s first footbalti team
Instead of their names, Bollington United’s players have popular menu choices such as jalfrezi, tandoori and bhuna written on their backs.
The Stockport Metro League seven-a-side team line-up now features Spencer ‘Tikka’ Hall, Oliver ‘Jalfrezi’ Gaunt, Jackson ‘Madras’ Mather, Will ‘Tandoori’ Richardson, Caleb ‘Rogan Josh’ Rogers, Sam ‘Bhuna’ Baistow, Paddy ‘Kurma’ Watts and Tom ‘Vindaloo’ Boyd.
The under-nines team hail from Cheshire, home to wealthy stars of Manchester United – whose old boss Sir Alex Ferguson used the ‘squeaky bum’ phrase to describe end of season nerves.
The boys picked their favourite dishes to have emblazoned on their shirts, after the town’s Viceroy restaurant agreed to sponsor them in return for having its name on the front.
Beckham and Sir Alex Ferguson reunited in The Beano
David Beckham and his former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson are to make a special appearance in the 75th anniversary issue of The Beano.
The pair will become next door neighbours after Becks asks comic favourite Dennis the Menace to help find him a new house in Beanotown.
Ronaldo free-kick breaks boy's wrist
A young football fan whose wrist was broken by a Cristiano Ronaldo free-kick at Bournemouth has received a shirt signed by the player and his Real Madrid team-mates.
AFC Bournemouth took on the Spanish giants in a pre-season friendly at the Goldsands Stadium on Saturday.
The match attracted thousands of fans.
Among them was Charlie Silverwood, 11, who early in the match was hit by a Ronaldo free-kick and later had to undergo surgery on his wrist.
Charlie, from Christchurch, said: "It was Ronaldo's first free-kick of the game. It went straight for me so I blocked the ball with the palm of my left hand and the force, I suppose, reverberated up my arm and broke my wrist."
First aiders at the ground put his arm in a sling and told him to go to hospital.
"Real Madrid is a once in a lifetime opportunity - seeing them play your local club - so I watched the rest of the match, mostly in pain considering I still had the sling, and afterwards I then went to hospital," he said.
Monday, July 15, 2013
Reading mascot who fell to earth
The stunt was an attempt to raise money by the children at Purley CE Infant School, who had been learning about space with Dr Robert Thompson and Graeme Marlton of the University of Reading’s Department of Meteorology.
The fundraiser however, was the brainchild of Reading FC season ticket holder and local parent Phil Allen, whose daughter Scarlet attends Purley School.
Teaming up with Dave Akerman, who broke the UK amateur record for an unmanned balloon flight in December 2011 when he achieved a height of 134,468ft, the two managed to send Kingsley on his first journey on Saturday 29th June.
However, there was a problem with the camera on the first attempt, and so Kingsley went up again last weekend, with a video of his ascent successfully recorded.
The school managed to raise £420 for the school’s PTA which Mr Allen’s employer, Microsoft, offered to double.
Cesc Fabregas likes Instagram picture urging Arsenal to sign him
Redknapp faces spell in the stands
Redknapp underwent surgery on Tuesday to fix a knee cartilage problem and has been forced to get around in a wheelchair and on crutches for the next six weeks.
The 66-year-old was at St James Park on Friday night to see his team draw 0-0 with Exeter City in their latest pre-season friendly.
And it needed three men - two stewards and a kindly QPR supporter - to lift his wheelchair to his seat at the top of the Flybe stand.
But Redknapp appeared in characteristic high spirits despite being incapacitated until the beginning of the season.
Cisse sent to train alone
Papiss Cisse has been forced to train by himself as the Wonga shirt sponsorship row continues to disrupt the harmony at Newcastle.
The Senegal striker turned up to training on Saturday to join his team-mates but was banished to the gym.
Cisse, a Muslim, has offered to wear a charity logo on his shirt and training gear instead of Wonga's, because on religious grounds he does not want to benefit from a money lending company.
Some of the other practising Muslims at the club, including Hatem Ben Arfa, have been training wearing the shirts.
Newcastle announced a £24million, four-year deal with lender Wonga last year. Under Sharia law, Muslims must not benefit from lending money.
The Senegal striker turned up to training on Saturday to join his team-mates but was banished to the gym.
Cisse, a Muslim, has offered to wear a charity logo on his shirt and training gear instead of Wonga's, because on religious grounds he does not want to benefit from a money lending company.
Some of the other practising Muslims at the club, including Hatem Ben Arfa, have been training wearing the shirts.
Newcastle announced a £24million, four-year deal with lender Wonga last year. Under Sharia law, Muslims must not benefit from lending money.
Six David Beckhams used to promote Premier League coverage
The ad is to be shown on Sunday, and in it Beckham can be seen watching Sky Sports on a TV, laptop, tablet and smartphone throughout several London locations, a pie and mash shop included.
'I was quite amazed that they were able to recreate a pie and mash shop on a film set, the attention to detail was incredible,' Beckham said. 'The food wasn’t quite the same though!
'The ad shows how crucial Sky is to the lives of their customers at home and on the move, how people can use it no matter how busy their lives are.'
Manchester United TV announces Dwight Yorke as Red Devils manager
Ronaldo 'hoping to buy' rights to magazine
Brazil legend Ronaldo is reportedly embarking on a new career as a porn magnate with hopes of purchasing the Playboy franchise in his native country.
It's believed the 35-year-old, who helped Brazil win the World Cup in 2002, is planning on making a bid for the popular magazine.
Sources close to the star told Brazil's Extra newspaper he sees the soft-porn publication - Brazil's tenth best-selling magazine - as a lucrative business opportunity.
It's believed the 35-year-old, who helped Brazil win the World Cup in 2002, is planning on making a bid for the popular magazine.
Sources close to the star told Brazil's Extra newspaper he sees the soft-porn publication - Brazil's tenth best-selling magazine - as a lucrative business opportunity.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Maurides flip injury
Wondolowski name misspelled
Guardiola Joins In Training
Non-League Thurrock relegated by FA after player fails to pay £16 fine
The FA have upheld a three-point deduction handed out to Thurrock after they had fielded a player who had failed to pay a fine of £16 to West Riding FA. The player in question, Joel Barnett, shouldn’t have been playing for the Fleet as he was banned for failing to cough up his share of a collection of fines which his previous side had racked up before folding under financial pressure.
The FA initially punished the club with a three point deduction but despite an appeal, the punishment remains, with those points enough to drop Thurrock into the relegation zone and out of the division.
The FA initially punished the club with a three point deduction but despite an appeal, the punishment remains, with those points enough to drop Thurrock into the relegation zone and out of the division.
The 'Top 20 Barcelona youth goals of 12/13'
Sporting Lisbon fans try to kidnap Chelsea target Bruma
Chelsea target Bruma was the victim of an attempted kidnapping by fans who don’t want him to leave Sporting Lisbon, according to his agent.
The 18-year-old wonderkid’s representative Cátio Baldé claims a group of fans tried to snatch him from a hotel las night.
He said: "Last night there was an attempted kidnap of Bruma by Juve Leo [Sporting fans] at the hotel where he lives. We have registered a complaint [with the police], and we have been informed it was done at the behest of Sporting’s management."
The winger would be entitled to terminate his contract and leave on a free transfer if FIFA is satisfied that an attempted kidnapping did take place.
The incident happened on the day news broke that Bruma had pleaded with Sporting to let him move to the Blues.
The 18-year-old wonderkid’s representative Cátio Baldé claims a group of fans tried to snatch him from a hotel las night.
He said: "Last night there was an attempted kidnap of Bruma by Juve Leo [Sporting fans] at the hotel where he lives. We have registered a complaint [with the police], and we have been informed it was done at the behest of Sporting’s management."
The winger would be entitled to terminate his contract and leave on a free transfer if FIFA is satisfied that an attempted kidnapping did take place.
The incident happened on the day news broke that Bruma had pleaded with Sporting to let him move to the Blues.
Spanish newspaper AS claim a Gareth Bale shirt has been found at Real Madrid
A shirt featuring Gareth Bale’s name and number has been found at the Bernabeu, according to Spanish newspaper AS.
The newspaper reports that the club’s hierarchy had commissioned the personalised shirt.
10-year-old boy leads PSV crowd in booming chant
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Tevez avoids community service
Carlos Tevez has been cleared to start the season with Juventus as planned after having his Community Service Order rescinded at Macclesfield Magistrates' Court.
The striker still had to complete the majority of his 250 hours' of unpaid work, imposed as punishment for a string of driving offences earlier this year.
However, the terms have now changed, meaning Tevez will pay a fine instead of fulfilling the order, allowing him to continue his career with Juve.
District Judge Bridget Knight accepted there were circumstances beyond Tevez's control in his inability to fulfil the terms of his order, saying: 'This is only a technical breach. It is not, I repeat not, a case of a footballer thumbing his nose at a court order.'
It is thought Tevez's legal team argued that as the South American was sold by Manchester City, he was not responsible in law for his inability to comply with the order.
Tevez said: 'I would like to thank the court for its understanding. I appreciate their help and assistance in this case.
'I would also like to thank my legal team, especially Gwyn Lewis at Burton Copeland and all my advisors who have helped me throughout this case.'
The striker still had to complete the majority of his 250 hours' of unpaid work, imposed as punishment for a string of driving offences earlier this year.
However, the terms have now changed, meaning Tevez will pay a fine instead of fulfilling the order, allowing him to continue his career with Juve.
District Judge Bridget Knight accepted there were circumstances beyond Tevez's control in his inability to fulfil the terms of his order, saying: 'This is only a technical breach. It is not, I repeat not, a case of a footballer thumbing his nose at a court order.'
It is thought Tevez's legal team argued that as the South American was sold by Manchester City, he was not responsible in law for his inability to comply with the order.
Tevez said: 'I would like to thank the court for its understanding. I appreciate their help and assistance in this case.
'I would also like to thank my legal team, especially Gwyn Lewis at Burton Copeland and all my advisors who have helped me throughout this case.'
Taarabt sent packing by QPR
Adel Taarabt’s future is in major doubt after he was sent home from the club's pre-season training camp in Devon.
Furious manager Harry Redknapp told the Moroccan to pack his bags after turning up late for a training session ahead of the friendly against Exeter on Thursday.
Taarabt was already on thin ice with Redknapp after falling out of favour with his boss towards the end of last season.
Furious manager Harry Redknapp told the Moroccan to pack his bags after turning up late for a training session ahead of the friendly against Exeter on Thursday.
Taarabt was already on thin ice with Redknapp after falling out of favour with his boss towards the end of last season.
Arsenal pack 'The Suitcase' for their pre-season tour of Asia
Andy Cole's son in Man City squad for South Africa tour
Manuel Pellegrini has named Devante Cole in his Manchester City squad for the pre-season tour to South Africa.
The City youngster is the son of former striker Andy Cole and has been part of the Academy at the Etihad.
Thai school children in Celtic shirts dedicate song to Lionel Messi
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Fergie's Fledglings re-United in Manchester
Just over 20 years ago, they were nicknamed Fergie's Fledglings and were taking their first steps in top flight football.
But last night the 'Class of 92' were back in town for an unofficial reunion - with two decades on the playing field behind them.
United old boys David Beckham , Paul Scholes , Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs , Phil Neville and Gary Neville met up in the city centre for an informal get-together.
Raheem Sterling's hair
Vasco Da Gama’s Nei scores 'bullet header' own-goal
Obafemi Martins uses shirts from all his old clubs to upholster chairs
Behind the scenes at Chelsea’s first day of pre-season training
Guardiola gives Arjen Robben a kick up the backside
Nigerian FA to punish teams for 79-0 and 67-0 scorelines
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) have announced that they are going to come down on four lower-league clubs over allegations that they were complicit in what the NFF have called a "mind-boggling show of shame" in which two clubs, both chasing promotion and needing to hike up their goal difference, mysteriously managed to rack up respective 79-0 and 67-0 victories at the weekend.
According to the AP, the matches, which were both played at the same time, saw Plateau United Feeders score 72 second-half goals in their 79-0 win over Akurba FC, while Police Machine FC stuck 61 goals past Babayaro FC in the second half of their 67-0 victory.
Unsurprisingly, the NNF have confirmed that all players, match officials, management, club officials and tournament coordinators involved in the debacle will be investigated for match-fixing in the not-so-distant future, with an NFF spokesman declaring "anyone found to have played some role in this despicable matter will be severely dealt with."
According to the AP, the matches, which were both played at the same time, saw Plateau United Feeders score 72 second-half goals in their 79-0 win over Akurba FC, while Police Machine FC stuck 61 goals past Babayaro FC in the second half of their 67-0 victory.
Unsurprisingly, the NNF have confirmed that all players, match officials, management, club officials and tournament coordinators involved in the debacle will be investigated for match-fixing in the not-so-distant future, with an NFF spokesman declaring "anyone found to have played some role in this despicable matter will be severely dealt with."
Country asks fans to help pay for flights and hotels
South American minnows Belize have asked fans to help them pay for flights, hotels and new training equipment during their run at the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
The tiny nation will make their debut in the tournament this week, after earning a place by finishing fourth in the Centroamericana competition.
But as supporters gear up to follow Belize’s journey in the United States, the nation has warned it’s spell in the Gold Cup could be cut short.
Belize, ranked 130th in the world, are struggling to raise money to complete their allocated matches, with the cost of flights and hotels mounting, while they also need new training gear.
So the head of the Belize FA has turned to fans and asked them to do their bit to support the team, with donations now being accepted on their official website.
Thierry Henry Finally Pulls Off ‘Pires Penalty’
Penniless Costa Rican club trades player for 50 footballs
With Roger Fallas’ contract at second division side Puma dwindling away to nothing and newly-promoted first division side Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR) showing an interest, Puma owner Rigoberto Chinchilla hammered out a deal that saw his club at least receive something in return for their star striker, shaking hands with his UCR counterpart over a fee of 50 footballs.
"I asked for 50 balls, it’s all sorted," Chinchilla told Radio Monumental. "They asked me what the situation was with Roger. I told them that it is a privilege to watch him and that I will not close the doors for him to get better and play in the first division."
Apparently money is ridiculously tight in Costa Rica’s Liga de Ascenso at the moment, with some clubs unable to pay salaries and opting to merely provide their players with "matchday travel expenses" for away games instead.
"I asked for 50 balls, it’s all sorted," Chinchilla told Radio Monumental. "They asked me what the situation was with Roger. I told them that it is a privilege to watch him and that I will not close the doors for him to get better and play in the first division."
Apparently money is ridiculously tight in Costa Rica’s Liga de Ascenso at the moment, with some clubs unable to pay salaries and opting to merely provide their players with "matchday travel expenses" for away games instead.
Barcelona president Sandro Rosell ducks into women’s toilets to avoid press
New York Red Bulls to pay fans to stop swearing
Thierry Henry’s side the New York Red Bulls are resorting to bribery in order to stop fans chanting profanity during goal kicks.
The MLS giants have grown so fed up with the ‘You suck a*******’ chant that has for some reason become a fixture at soccer grounds all over America, that they’re now willing to pay off rude fans in order to appease sponsors and TV network bosses.
‘The team has notified its three fan groups - the Empire Supporters Club, the Garden State Ultras and the Viking Army - that $500 will be contributed to each for every home game during which "YSA" isn’t heard in Red Bull Arena’s South Ward.
The MLS giants have grown so fed up with the ‘You suck a*******’ chant that has for some reason become a fixture at soccer grounds all over America, that they’re now willing to pay off rude fans in order to appease sponsors and TV network bosses.
‘The team has notified its three fan groups - the Empire Supporters Club, the Garden State Ultras and the Viking Army - that $500 will be contributed to each for every home game during which "YSA" isn’t heard in Red Bull Arena’s South Ward.
Beckham back at Manchester United to buy 'Champions 20' shirt
Jacksonville Jaguars owner in talks to buy Fulham
Shahid Khan, the boss of American Football franchise Jacksonville Jaguars is understood to be the NFL owner negotiating to buy Fulham.
It was revealed this morning that Mohamed Al-Fayed was on the verge of selling the Premier League club after investing £200million over the last 16 years in establishing them in the top flight.
And Khan, a billionaire car parts manufacturer who bought the Jaguars in December 2011, is set to complete the deal with 84-year-old Fayed by the end of this week.
It was revealed this morning that Mohamed Al-Fayed was on the verge of selling the Premier League club after investing £200million over the last 16 years in establishing them in the top flight.
And Khan, a billionaire car parts manufacturer who bought the Jaguars in December 2011, is set to complete the deal with 84-year-old Fayed by the end of this week.
Monday, July 08, 2013
Podolski races around Nurburgring at 170mph
Bolt set to turn out for Manchester United
Usain Bolt, a well-known United fan, has apparently been given the green light to turn out for his heroes in Rio Ferdinand’s testimonial match against Sevilla on August 9.
Not one to play down his own abilities, the 100m and 200m Olympic champion has boasted of his footie skills in the past and had been cheekily pushing Sir Alex Ferguson to give him a trial before the legendary Scot retired at the end of last season.
‘I know I could make a difference. I’d be the fastest in the team - but I can play as well,’ said Bolt.
Not one to play down his own abilities, the 100m and 200m Olympic champion has boasted of his footie skills in the past and had been cheekily pushing Sir Alex Ferguson to give him a trial before the legendary Scot retired at the end of last season.
‘I know I could make a difference. I’d be the fastest in the team - but I can play as well,’ said Bolt.
Spurs website crashes as they confirm Paulinho transfer
Amateur college player lights up ‘Messi & Friends’ Charity Game
Scholes set for another retirement U-turn
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes is set to come out of retirement once again – to raise money for his son’s football team.
Scholes, who initially retired from professional football in the summer of 2011 only to make a sensational U-turn and rejoin United in January 2012, hung his boots up for good at the end of last season.
But now Scholes is preparing himself for another comeback, as the former United star swaps the famous red shirt for the blue of Stalybridge Celtic Juniors in the club’s annual charity match on July 26.
Scholes, who initially retired from professional football in the summer of 2011 only to make a sensational U-turn and rejoin United in January 2012, hung his boots up for good at the end of last season.
But now Scholes is preparing himself for another comeback, as the former United star swaps the famous red shirt for the blue of Stalybridge Celtic Juniors in the club’s annual charity match on July 26.
Pardew reprimands Kinnear over mispronounced names
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has told the club’s new director of football Joe Kinnear that he needs to show more respect to the players.
The Magpies boss appeared less than impressed with Kinnear’s dodgy pronunciations of some of the stars of his squad.
He told BBC Radio Newcastle: "Some of the things Joe said he has apologised for, especially getting the names wrong of our players.
"That needs to be corrected because there is a certain respect needed there."
The Magpies boss appeared less than impressed with Kinnear’s dodgy pronunciations of some of the stars of his squad.
He told BBC Radio Newcastle: "Some of the things Joe said he has apologised for, especially getting the names wrong of our players.
"That needs to be corrected because there is a certain respect needed there."
Saturday, July 06, 2013
Open goal miss of the day - Alberto Aladje
Liverpool’s Samed Yesil sneaks off for mid pre-season training nap
Pre-season training clearly got a bit too much for Liverpool youngster Samed Yesil, after he was caught having a mid-session nap.
Yesil’s team-mate Henoc Mukendi posted a picture on Instagram of the cheeky teen’s snoozing antics, with the caption: ‘Samed went missing for like 2 hours & we found him asleep in the indoor astro.’
The 19-year-old only signed for Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, but he’s clearly none too fussed about either living up to his £1m price tag or impressing boss Brendan Rodgers, having grabbed the opportunity for a power nap.
Gazza's 'drunken attack on ex-wife Sheryl and security guard'
Former England star Paul Gascoigne has been arrested after an alleged drunken assault at a railway station.
The 46-year-old ex-England and Newcastle player, who left rehab in the United States earlier this year, was held after an incident in Hertfordshire.
A Hertfordshire Police spokeswoman said: 'Police were called to a report of a man allegedly being drunk and disorderly at Stevenage railway station at 10.30pm on Thursday July 4.
'Officers attended the location and arrested a 46-year-old male on suspicion of common assault and being drunk and disorderly.'
He was taken into custody but was not charged, police added.
Earlier this year, Gascoigne said he wanted to 'get back to reality' after the latest health scare in his battle with alcohol addiction.
The 46-year-old ex-England and Newcastle player, who left rehab in the United States earlier this year, was held after an incident in Hertfordshire.
A Hertfordshire Police spokeswoman said: 'Police were called to a report of a man allegedly being drunk and disorderly at Stevenage railway station at 10.30pm on Thursday July 4.
'Officers attended the location and arrested a 46-year-old male on suspicion of common assault and being drunk and disorderly.'
He was taken into custody but was not charged, police added.
Earlier this year, Gascoigne said he wanted to 'get back to reality' after the latest health scare in his battle with alcohol addiction.
Friday, July 05, 2013
Peter Crouch brings back the Robot in Ibiza
Borussia Dortmund shirt made from 80,000 flowers…
Fergie hip op to keep him away from Moyes' opening games
Sir Alex Ferguson is set to miss the opening matches of the David Moyes reign as Manchester United manager.
Ferguson, who retired at the end of last season following twenty-six years in charge of the Old Trafford club, is to undergo a hip operation this summer and is unlikely to be fit enough to attend the first few games of the David Moyes era.
The legendary Scot is booked in for surgery at the end of July and barring a rapid recovery, Ferguson will be unable to attend the Community Shield against Wigan on August 11th
Ferguson's rest and recuperation period following the operation may also miss mean that he will miss the start of the Premier League season.
Ferguson, who retired at the end of last season following twenty-six years in charge of the Old Trafford club, is to undergo a hip operation this summer and is unlikely to be fit enough to attend the first few games of the David Moyes era.
The legendary Scot is booked in for surgery at the end of July and barring a rapid recovery, Ferguson will be unable to attend the Community Shield against Wigan on August 11th
Ferguson's rest and recuperation period following the operation may also miss mean that he will miss the start of the Premier League season.
Swansea ball boy ‘kicked’ by Eden Hazard hopeful of selling jacket for £20,000
A ball boy who earned worldwide fame after being kicked by Eden Hazard last season is selling the jacket he wore during the incident in the hope of raising £20,000.
Charlie Morgan became front-page news all over the world after being kicked at by Hazard during Swansea’s Capital One Cup win over Chelsea in January.
The Blues’ Belgian winger was dismissed for the ‘attack’ on Morgan, who had appeared to protect the ball from Hazard’s grasp as he tried to hurry up the play.
Morgan has put his ball boy coat on eBay, with the money set to go to Maggie’s Cancer Charity and the RNLI.
Giggs and Neville team for £20m launch of football-themed hotel and restaurants
Manchester United legends Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville have launched a joint hospitality company - GG Hospitality - with ambitions of developing a worldwide football-themed hotel and restaurant empire.
According to 'Caterer and Hotelkeeper', Hotel Football is costing £20million as the players link up with two Singaporean businessmen - Kiam Ho and Andy Yun - as the major shareholders. Friends of the footballers as well as some fellow players are also reported to be involved in the project.
It is unknown how much money that Neville and Giggs are committing themselves to the company GG Hospitality, which has been formulated and developed by Neville and Giggs themselves, will be the parent company of Café Football, with the first restaurant outlet to open its doors in the Westfield Centre in Stratford in November this year.
It is expected to seat around 120 people and will be offering affordable food, with two courses available for £16-per-head.
Giggs said: 'We have lived and breathed every element of this for a considerable time now and have been involved in every detail, every step of the way. We've stayed in lots of hotels as footballers and often felt that we could do a better job.
'We have left nothing to chance and are working with some of the best people in the business to achieve our vision'.
According to 'Caterer and Hotelkeeper', Hotel Football is costing £20million as the players link up with two Singaporean businessmen - Kiam Ho and Andy Yun - as the major shareholders. Friends of the footballers as well as some fellow players are also reported to be involved in the project.
It is unknown how much money that Neville and Giggs are committing themselves to the company GG Hospitality, which has been formulated and developed by Neville and Giggs themselves, will be the parent company of Café Football, with the first restaurant outlet to open its doors in the Westfield Centre in Stratford in November this year.
It is expected to seat around 120 people and will be offering affordable food, with two courses available for £16-per-head.
Giggs said: 'We have lived and breathed every element of this for a considerable time now and have been involved in every detail, every step of the way. We've stayed in lots of hotels as footballers and often felt that we could do a better job.
'We have left nothing to chance and are working with some of the best people in the business to achieve our vision'.
Italian Street Soccer
George Best and his mum appear on ‘This Is Your Life’, 1971
West Brom become sixth Premier League club to sign Frenchman Anelka
West Brom have confirmed the signing of former France striker Nicolas Anelka.
The 34-year-old, who was a free agent, has signed an initial one-year contract at the Hawthorns.
The club confirmed on Twitter: 'Albion have tonight completed the signing of @anelkaofficiel on a one-year deal, with a further year's option in the club's favour.'
Bookies stop taking bets on Suarez heading south
Sky Bet have slashed their odds from 20-1 to 7-2 following a run of bets while William Hill even suspended the betting after taking it down to 5-6.
The striker, 26, valued at £40million, has been told by Liverpool he must go to Australia for the club's pre-season tour.
He will miss the Indonesia leg as he has some time off to recover after the Confederations Cup, but must join his team-mates on July 22.
The striker, 26, valued at £40million, has been told by Liverpool he must go to Australia for the club's pre-season tour.
He will miss the Indonesia leg as he has some time off to recover after the Confederations Cup, but must join his team-mates on July 22.
Bolivian town announces 20% of babies now called Neymar
A town in Bolivia is set to become overrun with people called Neymar after a huge rush of parents naming their child after the Barcelona ace.
After his starring performances at the Confederations Cup coupled with a £52million switch to Barcelona, it’s understandable that Neymar is a name on everybody’s lips this summer.
But according to officials from La Paz, Bolivia, his fame has taken hold of new parents in the city with 20 per cent of new babies being given the name Neymar.
The current rate of new Neymars is around 2 in every 10, but the city has raised concerns about the trend, admitting this week that they fear everybody will share the same name in the next few years.
‘We believe that in 17 years most adult males will be called Neymar because that is the current trend,’ said Remigio Condori; of the La Paz civil registry office.
‘It’s the big fashion right now’.
After his starring performances at the Confederations Cup coupled with a £52million switch to Barcelona, it’s understandable that Neymar is a name on everybody’s lips this summer.
But according to officials from La Paz, Bolivia, his fame has taken hold of new parents in the city with 20 per cent of new babies being given the name Neymar.
The current rate of new Neymars is around 2 in every 10, but the city has raised concerns about the trend, admitting this week that they fear everybody will share the same name in the next few years.
‘We believe that in 17 years most adult males will be called Neymar because that is the current trend,’ said Remigio Condori; of the La Paz civil registry office.
‘It’s the big fashion right now’.
Beckham career highlights in Lego.
Beckham fan gets kicked out of school after copying his haircut
David Beckham might be an idol for youngsters all over the world, but his example has landed a teenager from Nottingham in hot water this week.
Kurt Hallam, 15, has been kicked out of school after coping Beckham’s new hairstyle and in the process upset some of his teachers.
The ‘pompadour’ hairdo, that features a short back and sides coupled with a slicked back top, is a favourite for the ex-England captain along with a host of other famous footballers.
But teachers at the Nottingham Academy were not impressed when young Kurt turned up to school with the hairstyle, which he had topped off with some blonde hair dye.
The youngster was put in isolation before being forced out, leaving him bemused.
‘I’m a fan of David Beckham and I saw that he had the same style so I thought I’d treat myself,’ said Kurt, who claimed other pupils were allowed to have similar haircuts.
‘I never expected to be kicked out of school.’
The school’s executive principal Kelvin Hornsby defended the decision, saying pupils had to ‘present themselves smartly’.
Thursday, July 04, 2013
Thiago Alcantara cropped out of Barcelona advert.
Liverpool third kit to have odd socks
WAGs football team
Chantelle Tagoe, fiancee of former England star Emile Heskey, has assembled a team of WAGs for an upcoming charity game at Salford City Stadium on August 4.
They will face a team of female celebrities, and are taking their training seriously ahead of the game, which will raise funds for Chantelle and Emile’s One Goal Foundation
The WAGs XI headed for their first training session on Wednesday, with players including Leanne Brown, wife of Sunderland star Wes Brown, Jessica Lawlor, fiancee of Aston Villa’s Stephen Ireland, Shirley Cole wife of ex-Man United great Andrew Cole, Amber Wheeler, girlfriend of Bolton’s Mark Davies and Liz Wheeler, partner of Aston Villa’s Gabriel Agbonlahor.
England down to 15th in FIFA rankings
Wednesday, July 03, 2013
Danish postman gets tattoo of Jupp Heynckes’ face as a ‘thank you’
Petr Cech drumming
Cristiano Ronaldo admits: 'I really miss Manchester United'
Cristiano Ronaldo has no intention of leaving Real Madrid despite admitting he misses Manchester United.
The 28-year-old has two years to run on his deal at Madrid, who paid a world record £80million fee to prise him away from United in 2009.
Ronaldo hinted he might yet like to return to Old Trafford before his career ends, but denied suggestions a switch could come any time soon.
"Yes I really miss English football," he said during a promotional event in Singapore.
"For me it was one of the best years in my career when I was there at Manchester United. Everyone knows that.
"It is the club that is still in my heart. I really miss (the club).
"But now my life is in Spain. I'm enjoying playing there too. Part of my life is there. The future we never know.
"I'm really, really happy in the Spanish league at the moment."
The 28-year-old has two years to run on his deal at Madrid, who paid a world record £80million fee to prise him away from United in 2009.
Ronaldo hinted he might yet like to return to Old Trafford before his career ends, but denied suggestions a switch could come any time soon.
"Yes I really miss English football," he said during a promotional event in Singapore.
"For me it was one of the best years in my career when I was there at Manchester United. Everyone knows that.
"It is the club that is still in my heart. I really miss (the club).
"But now my life is in Spain. I'm enjoying playing there too. Part of my life is there. The future we never know.
"I'm really, really happy in the Spanish league at the moment."
Swamp soccer World Cup
Alex Morgan book
In 2012 American player Alex Morgan signed with Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing to pen The Kicks, a three-book series for middle schoolers.
The main characters are four young girls centered on the themes of friendship, leadership, and soccer.
In a statement released by Simon & Schuster, Morgan said she wanted her books to "inspire young girls" and "celebrate" her love of soccer.
On September 1, 2012, the publisher set the release date for the first novel, Saving The Team, on May 14, 2013, and second novel, Sabotage Season, on September 3, 2013.
The first novel, Saving the Team (ISBN 1442485701), debuted at number seven on the The New York Times Best Seller list for Children's Middle Grade.
Bale waiting on Real Madrid offer
Real Madrid must show their hand before Gareth Bale will make any decision on his future, says the Tottenham star’s agent.
The Welshman has been heavily linked with a move to the Bernabeu this summer, but dealmaker Jonathan Barnett insists his client will not make decision one way or the other until Madrid make an official offer to Spurs.
‘Bale has not said no, nor yes. There’s no offer from Madrid; they have to talk between themselves and we will see what happens.
‘He was at Malaga airport [on Tuesday], he’s been in Marbella on holiday. He comes back to Tottenham for pre-season training next week.’
Bale has recently revealed his longing for a return to Champions League football, which Spurs will miss out on this season, prompting speculation the 23-year-old could be ready to quit White Hart Lane in the coming months.
The Welshman has been heavily linked with a move to the Bernabeu this summer, but dealmaker Jonathan Barnett insists his client will not make decision one way or the other until Madrid make an official offer to Spurs.
‘Bale has not said no, nor yes. There’s no offer from Madrid; they have to talk between themselves and we will see what happens.
‘He was at Malaga airport [on Tuesday], he’s been in Marbella on holiday. He comes back to Tottenham for pre-season training next week.’
Bale has recently revealed his longing for a return to Champions League football, which Spurs will miss out on this season, prompting speculation the 23-year-old could be ready to quit White Hart Lane in the coming months.
Arsenal new away kit 2013/14 teaser trailer
Ronaldo is turning orange
Luiz pictured in hospital bed
David Luiz is preparing to have surgery on a broken nose he sustained during Brazil's Confederations Cup match against Mexico two weeks ago.
He posted a short video on social network site Instagram of himself lying on his hospital bed, in a gown.
Luiz tweeted: 'Surgery time! Pray for me please! Tks for all! #nose.'
Rooney holds talks with Moyes
Wayne Rooney held showdown talks with new boss David Moyes about his future at Manchester United on Wednesday morning.
The 27-year-old didn't look overly pleased as he drove into United's training base in his Range Rover at around 9.30am for the first day of pre-season training.
He met with manager Moyes to discuss his future after a breakdown in communications with Sir Alex Ferguson last season. Rooney eventually left Carrington at 12.45pm
Rooney is said to be approaching the talks with Moyes positively and is keen to start afresh with the new manager after his relationship with Ferguson soured last season, culminating in the former manager saying the player had asked to leave the club.
Barton demands £3m pay-off
Joey Barton is demanding a staggering £3m to leave QPR after he finally arrived for pre-season training on Wednesday.
Barton has told Rangers he will walk away from his £70,000-a-week contract if they agree to his demands.
The midfielder, 30, still has two years left to run on his contract and it will cost the Championship club £7m to keep him.
Barton claims Marseille have offered him £30,000 a week to return to the south of France following a season long loan at the Ligue 1 club.
Rangers chief Harry Redknapp expected Barton to report for training at Rangers on Monday but the midfielder didn’t show up.
He had spent the weekend in Glastonbury before returning to the North West to be with his family.
Barton has told Rangers he will walk away from his £70,000-a-week contract if they agree to his demands.
The midfielder, 30, still has two years left to run on his contract and it will cost the Championship club £7m to keep him.
Barton claims Marseille have offered him £30,000 a week to return to the south of France following a season long loan at the Ligue 1 club.
Rangers chief Harry Redknapp expected Barton to report for training at Rangers on Monday but the midfielder didn’t show up.
He had spent the weekend in Glastonbury before returning to the North West to be with his family.
GIF : Cavani free kick
The Hulk shows up for Confederation Cup
Messi accused of ‘Defrauding American Citizens’
Lionel Messi has been accused of "attempting to defraud American citizens" after the Los Angeles leg of his "Messi & Friends" world tour was cancelled just over 24 hours before it was scheduled to kick-off.
The exhibition tour hit Lima last night with Messi, Neymar, Dani Alves, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Eric Abidal among others turning out to play in the Peruvian capital, though backstage things were going awry as promoters were busy pulling the plug on the match scheduled to take place in LA the following evening (i.e, tonight, 3rd July) despite stating on their official Twitter account that the game was still on a few hours earlier.
Apparently the match, which was due to take place in the LA Coliseum, was pulled when it emerged Messi wouldn’t be taking part, despite all the proceeds (tickets cost as much as $300) going to his eponymous foundation.
The exhibition tour hit Lima last night with Messi, Neymar, Dani Alves, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Eric Abidal among others turning out to play in the Peruvian capital, though backstage things were going awry as promoters were busy pulling the plug on the match scheduled to take place in LA the following evening (i.e, tonight, 3rd July) despite stating on their official Twitter account that the game was still on a few hours earlier.
Apparently the match, which was due to take place in the LA Coliseum, was pulled when it emerged Messi wouldn’t be taking part, despite all the proceeds (tickets cost as much as $300) going to his eponymous foundation.
Tesco Mobile favours Arsenal over Spurs
English kids don't train hard enough, blasts Man City youth chief
Too many young footballers in England are not prepared to work hard enough to make the grade at the top level, one of the Barclays Premier League’s top academy heads has claimed.
With many people wondering why the Premier League is full of foreign players and others asking why the England national team continues to underperform, top clubs are continuing to scour the continent for new talent this summer.
But Manchester City youth chief Mark Allen has claimed that the opportunities are there for youngsters in English academies but only if they are prepared to put the effort in.
Allen said: ‘Today, people think that if you start doing extra work, their mates will poke fun at them, and I am sorry to say it is especially true in British football.
With many people wondering why the Premier League is full of foreign players and others asking why the England national team continues to underperform, top clubs are continuing to scour the continent for new talent this summer.
But Manchester City youth chief Mark Allen has claimed that the opportunities are there for youngsters in English academies but only if they are prepared to put the effort in.
Allen said: ‘Today, people think that if you start doing extra work, their mates will poke fun at them, and I am sorry to say it is especially true in British football.
Neymar scores 45-yard lob during ‘Messi & Friends’ exhibition match
Mario Goetze angers adidas by wearing Nike shirt at Bayern Munich unveiling
Bayern Munich’s kit sponsors adidas are demanding answers after new signing Mario Goetze caused a PR disaster on his official unveiling by brandishing a huge Nike tick across his t-shirt.
The German sportswear manufacturers - who as well as supplying the kit, also own a 9.1 per cent stake in the club - were left fuming after the £32million new signing’s ‘non-regulation’ attire was allowed to slip past Bayern officials.
‘The pictures from today’s press conference with Mario Goetze have negatively surprised us,’ confirmed a spokesman.
Ex-United coach blasts Rooney
Wayne Rooney has been criticised by former Manchester United fitness coach Mick Clegg, who claims the England star was never as good as Cristiano Ronaldo because he hated going to the gym.
The 27-year-old has had doubts cast over him for several years regarding his fitness, and ahead of his crucial meeting with David Moyes, Clegg has a few ideas as to why the England star has somewhat fallen from grace.
'Wayne didn’t see the importance of the gym really. He’d say, "I’m here to play football". I always wish I could have pushed Wayne that bit further.'
The 27-year-old has had doubts cast over him for several years regarding his fitness, and ahead of his crucial meeting with David Moyes, Clegg has a few ideas as to why the England star has somewhat fallen from grace.
'Wayne didn’t see the importance of the gym really. He’d say, "I’m here to play football". I always wish I could have pushed Wayne that bit further.'
Cristiano Ronaldo - Message to Sir Alex Ferguson
Tuesday, July 02, 2013
Chelsea transfer spending under Abramovich
2003-04: £121.3m
2004-05: £92.2m
2005-06: £54.2m
2006-07: £66m
2007-08: £50.5m
2008-09: £24.2m
2009-10: £21.5m
2010-11: £95.8m
2011-12: £71.55m
2012-13: £86.5m
TOTAL: £683.75m
Joe Kinnear claims to be 'head and shoulders above' every other director of football
"I've been a manager for 35 years. I've been manager of the year. I've won every award there is in football as a player. I think all those qualities put me head and shoulders above every other director of football.
"The manager can't do everything. I'm probably the only football manager to be a director of football. I don't know any other ex-managers who have."
Except of course Kenny Dalglish, Harry Redknapp, Steve Coppell, Barry Fry, Ron Atkinson, Avram Grant, David Pleat, Sven Goran-Eriksson and Dave Bassett to name but a few.
Messi given $50m crystal portrait
As Lionel Messi made his way out of his hotel on Monday morning he was stopped and handed an impressive portrait of himself made entirely from coloured Swarovski crystals and estimated to be worth around $50million (£33million).
The picture is the handiwork of a Colombian artist by the name of "Mr Bling" (aka Mauricio Benitez).
SA footballers to help honour Mandela
The South African football and rugby union teams will play matches at the FNB Stadium in Soweto on August 17, which has been designated Nelson Mandela Sports Day.
South African sports ministry officials said the event would bring the country's two most popular sports together in the former president's honour.
The FNB stadium, formerly known as Soccer City, was the showpiece venue when South Africa hosted the 2010 World Cup, with Mandela making his last major public appearance at the final there.
South African sports ministry officials said the event would bring the country's two most popular sports together in the former president's honour.
The FNB stadium, formerly known as Soccer City, was the showpiece venue when South Africa hosted the 2010 World Cup, with Mandela making his last major public appearance at the final there.
Podolski, Walcott and Ox compete in Asia tour quiz
McClaren makes shock return
Steve McClaren has made a shock return to English football next season as a coach at Queens Park Rangers.
The west Londoners confirmed this afternoon that the former England boss has agreed a deal to become part of Harry Redknapp's backroom staff .
The move will surprise many and spark speculation over the future of Redknapp himself as McClaren, 52, has been open about wanting to get back into management .
But the former FC Twente boss - who has been out of work since his second spell at the Dutch club - insists he is there to help Redknapp and the club.
"I'm delighted to take up this position offered to me by Harry and QPR," he said.
"Whilst it still remains my ambition to manage again this gives me an ideal opportunity to stay involved and work on the field with one of the top managers in this country and a very ambitious club.
"Rest assured, I'll be doing all I can for Harry, the club and the fans to help QPR return to the Premier League."
The west Londoners confirmed this afternoon that the former England boss has agreed a deal to become part of Harry Redknapp's backroom staff .
The move will surprise many and spark speculation over the future of Redknapp himself as McClaren, 52, has been open about wanting to get back into management .
But the former FC Twente boss - who has been out of work since his second spell at the Dutch club - insists he is there to help Redknapp and the club.
"I'm delighted to take up this position offered to me by Harry and QPR," he said.
"Whilst it still remains my ambition to manage again this gives me an ideal opportunity to stay involved and work on the field with one of the top managers in this country and a very ambitious club.
"Rest assured, I'll be doing all I can for Harry, the club and the fans to help QPR return to the Premier League."
Liverpool's 1996 white suits
Paul McGrath arrested over alleged public order offences
Paul McGrath was arrested in Ireland last the weekend over alleged public order offences, according to reports.
The 53-year-old former Republic of Ireland international was arrested by gardai near the Tullamore Court Hotel in Co Offaly on Saturday afternoon after complaints were made that a man was being loud and annoying others in the area, a senior officer confirmed.
McGrath was taken to a local garda station where he was charged under Sections 4 and 6 of the Public Order Act.
He was bailed and will appear at Tullamore District Court on July 17.
The former Manchester United and Aston Villa defender has spoken openly about his problems with alcohol over the years.
He played for the Republic of Ireland 83 times and scored eight goals in a 12-year career, which included playing with the Irish squad at Euro 88 and the World Cups of 1990 and 1994.
The 53-year-old former Republic of Ireland international was arrested by gardai near the Tullamore Court Hotel in Co Offaly on Saturday afternoon after complaints were made that a man was being loud and annoying others in the area, a senior officer confirmed.
McGrath was taken to a local garda station where he was charged under Sections 4 and 6 of the Public Order Act.
He was bailed and will appear at Tullamore District Court on July 17.
The former Manchester United and Aston Villa defender has spoken openly about his problems with alcohol over the years.
He played for the Republic of Ireland 83 times and scored eight goals in a 12-year career, which included playing with the Irish squad at Euro 88 and the World Cups of 1990 and 1994.
Striker scores despite losing his boot
Brazilian newspaper gives everyone full marks
Independiente fans throw chairs at president in row over transfer funds
Balotelli comes to aid of elderly lady in street
Mario Balotelli lived up to his Super Mario nickname this week when he came to the rescue of an old lady suffering from heat exhaustion.
The madcap former Manchester City striker, now with AC Milan, is currently back in Italy after getting injured during the Confederations Cup.
And despite being told to rest up, Balotelli opted to venture out to the shops near his home in Milan when he stumbled across an elderly lady.
The woman had collapsed in the street due to the heat exhaustion caused by the recent heatwave across Italy.
Mario came to the lady’s rescue, scooping her up and offering to take her to hospital, before medical treatment finally arrived.
The madcap former Manchester City striker, now with AC Milan, is currently back in Italy after getting injured during the Confederations Cup.
And despite being told to rest up, Balotelli opted to venture out to the shops near his home in Milan when he stumbled across an elderly lady.
The woman had collapsed in the street due to the heat exhaustion caused by the recent heatwave across Italy.
Mario came to the lady’s rescue, scooping her up and offering to take her to hospital, before medical treatment finally arrived.
Premier League clubs to rack up 200,000 air miles on money-spinning world tours
Monday, July 01, 2013
World Cup for robots
Bulgarian HQ destroyed as CSKA Sofia fans run riot
Fifteen football fans have been held by police in connection with an attack on the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) headquarters on Saturday.
CSKA Sofia fans threw stones and fireworks at the BFU building in central Sofia, smashing windows and hitting a reporter who tried to take a photograph.
'Fifteen people have been detained so far,' the interior ministry's chief secretary Svetlozar Lazarov told reporters.
Supporters of CSKA, who are the most successful Bulgarian club with 31 league titles, have accused the BFU of being too strict and not allowing a merger with another club.
Debt-ridden CSKA will play in the amateur championship next season if they fail to merge with another first division club in time for the start of the league on July 20.
CSKA condemned the violence, saying in a statement: 'We are sure that the millions of CSKA fans in Bulgaria do not admire such behaviour; CSKA has proved it can build, not destroy.
'We categorically state that the management of the club is not involved even indirectly in the vandalism against the building of the Bulgarian Football Union.'
Shakira reaction to Pique red card
Neymar wants to team up with Rooney
Brazil superstar Neymar has urged Manchester United’s unsettled striker Wayne Rooney to consider a move to Barcelona, saying it would be a dream to play with the England forward.
Neymar, who himself joined the Catalan side earlier this summer for £48.6million from Brazilian side Santos, has described the Camp Nou as the perfect destination for a player of Rooney’s talent.
The Samba star, who scored a sensational goal in Brazil’s thumping 3-0 win over Spain in last night’s Confederation Cup final, said: ‘The style of football we (Barcelona) play and the level of the players we have - we are the perfect club for the top players to join.'
'Wayne is one of the most gifted and technical players in the world. Of course he would improve Barcelona. He would improve any club in Europe.
'And on a personal level, it would be a dream to play with him. I have met Wayne on a few occasions and he seems a good guy but importantly, he is one of the players I admire most in the world.'
Offside rule change could cause chaos for new season
Premier League football next season could be thrown into chaos as a FIFA amendment to the offside rule has caused concerns among leading officials and could add to further confusion for fans.
The amendment, which has been brought in by the governing body and comes into effect from today sees a considerable change to the wording of Law 11 and alters what assistant referees must take into consideration when deciding whether a forward is ‘interfering with an opponent’ or ‘gaining an advantage’.
The law change, which was presented to officials at a conference named ‘Realising Your Potential’, omits the ambiguous wording of ‘obstructing the opponent’s line of movements or making a gesture or movement which, in the opinion of the referee, deceives or distracts an opponent’.
This part of the offside law, referring to what constitutes ‘interfering with an opponent’ had previously been left too open to the subjective interpretation of officials and has now been replaced by ‘challenging an opponent for the ball.’
Less uncertainty should be provided by the clarification of what the assistant referee must consider when judging whether a forward has ‘gained an advantage by being in an offside position’.
The amendment, which has been brought in by the governing body and comes into effect from today sees a considerable change to the wording of Law 11 and alters what assistant referees must take into consideration when deciding whether a forward is ‘interfering with an opponent’ or ‘gaining an advantage’.
The law change, which was presented to officials at a conference named ‘Realising Your Potential’, omits the ambiguous wording of ‘obstructing the opponent’s line of movements or making a gesture or movement which, in the opinion of the referee, deceives or distracts an opponent’.
This part of the offside law, referring to what constitutes ‘interfering with an opponent’ had previously been left too open to the subjective interpretation of officials and has now been replaced by ‘challenging an opponent for the ball.’
Less uncertainty should be provided by the clarification of what the assistant referee must consider when judging whether a forward has ‘gained an advantage by being in an offside position’.
