Monday, September 30, 2013
Goalkeeper pretends he’s been kicked by Gareth Bale
Moyes writes off Champions League hopes
Arsenal fan outburst
Oxlade Chamberlain mocks Welbeck’s hair
Goalkeeper scores 95th minute volley
Man Utd record lowest points tally
Non-arrival of away team
Leiston’s team bus was unable to reach Kingstonian’s Kingsmeadow Stadium "in adequate time for the match to go ahead" due to heavy traffic caused by roadworks on the M25.
Di Canio ‘Spat In His Own Face Several Times’ in dressing room before getting sacked
With the story coming by way of Sunday People scribe Alan Nixon, Di Canio is said to have spat in his own face a few times after Sunderland’s defeat at West Brom; taking swigs of water, spraying it into the air, letting it fall on his face, rubbing it in and then yelling at his players "that is what you have done to me, spat in my face" before telling them all to do it to themselves.
Di Canio, ever the masterful man-motivator, apparently also told his team he hoped someone threw human faeces in their faces. He then told players they could phone chairman Ellis Short to complain about him if they didn’t like his methods. Several did, and Di Canio was sacked shortly thereafter.
Di Canio, ever the masterful man-motivator, apparently also told his team he hoped someone threw human faeces in their faces. He then told players they could phone chairman Ellis Short to complain about him if they didn’t like his methods. Several did, and Di Canio was sacked shortly thereafter.
GIF : Ozil gum juggling
Man Utd WAGS
Friday, September 27, 2013
Henrying
Rioting fans flushed down escalator
Balotelli apologises for red card
AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli has apologised to his team-mates and the club's fans for his red card after Saturday's 2-1 defeat by Napoli.
He was sent off for using "intimidating and insulting" words to referee Luca Banti and now serves a three-match ban.
"I am sorry for my team-mates," the 23-year-old told Gazzetta dello Sport. "They train and work hard with me. What I did hasn't helped our cause.
"I also feel guilty for the fans, who care so much for the team."
However the former Manchester City striker added: "I made a mistake when I was provoked... but I'm not going to apologise to everyone. It's not as if I killed someone."
Balotelli was shown a second yellow card at the final whistle after remonstrating with Napoli midfielder Valon Behrami and the referee at the San Siro.
Messi appears in Spanish court over tax fraud
Barcelona footballer Lionel Messi has appeared before a Spanish judge as part of a tax fraud investigation.
The 26-year-old Argentine, four times Fifa World Player of the Year, and his father Jorge Messi are accused of defrauding the authorities of more than 4m euros ($5.4m; £3.4m).
The two men were questioned separately at the court in Gava, near Barcelona.
Both father and son deny the allegations. The Messis' lawyer said he wanted to resolve the matter.
The footballer and his father are suspected of using companies abroad - in Belize and Uruguay - to sell the rights to use Lionel Messi's image, thereby circumventing tax obligations in Spain. The allegations date back to 2007-9.
The income related to Mr Messi's image rights included contracts with Banco Sabadell, Danone, Adidas, Pepsi-Cola, Proctor and Gamble, and the Kuwait Food Company.
The 26-year-old Argentine, four times Fifa World Player of the Year, and his father Jorge Messi are accused of defrauding the authorities of more than 4m euros ($5.4m; £3.4m).
The two men were questioned separately at the court in Gava, near Barcelona.
Both father and son deny the allegations. The Messis' lawyer said he wanted to resolve the matter.
The footballer and his father are suspected of using companies abroad - in Belize and Uruguay - to sell the rights to use Lionel Messi's image, thereby circumventing tax obligations in Spain. The allegations date back to 2007-9.
The income related to Mr Messi's image rights included contracts with Banco Sabadell, Danone, Adidas, Pepsi-Cola, Proctor and Gamble, and the Kuwait Food Company.
PFA fear 'hybrid' boots put players' safety at risk
PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor says Fifa need to do more to check the safety of football boots following a number of serious injuries.
Taylor believes too many players are being hurt by the boots - which have a mixture of studs and blades that can become sharp over time.
Last month Wayne Rooney suffered a gash to the head that kept him out of two crucial World Cup qualifiers.
Taylor wants Fifa to introduce a proper testing method for the boots' safety.
"The issue (with the boots) was highlighted when you saw saw the extent of the damage to his (Rooney's) head, near his eye," Taylor said. "But this is also something that affects youngsters playing in parks.
"Five per cent of all injuries are down to cuts attached to boots. It's not a high number but they can be very serious. So we need to do something about it."
Baby footballing hairstyles
72 fans detained in Turkey
The Turkish Interior Minister says police have raided homes and detained 72 football fans suspected of involvement in blackmail, threats and other crimes.
Muammer Guler says fans of Fenerbahce, Galatasaray and Besiktas are suspected of blackmailing their clubs with threats of violence at games that would cause the teams to receive fines or other penalties.
Guler says the detained fans are suspected of 16 criminal acts that also include armed threats, raiding venues and attacking security officials.
The sweep comes days after Besiktas was ordered to play four games behind closed doors after fans ran onto the field during a weekend match against Galatasaray.
Muammer Guler says fans of Fenerbahce, Galatasaray and Besiktas are suspected of blackmailing their clubs with threats of violence at games that would cause the teams to receive fines or other penalties.
Guler says the detained fans are suspected of 16 criminal acts that also include armed threats, raiding venues and attacking security officials.
The sweep comes days after Besiktas was ordered to play four games behind closed doors after fans ran onto the field during a weekend match against Galatasaray.
Crafty free-kick routine
Barton back to school
Joey Barton has re-entered the world of education by embarking on a philosophy degree.
The controversial QPR midfielder is studying at Roehampton University, and confirmed on his official Twitter profile he went to his first lecture on Thursday.
He posted: 'Off to my first lecture this afternoon. Eyes peeled, ears open, brain engaged.'
The controversial QPR midfielder is studying at Roehampton University, and confirmed on his official Twitter profile he went to his first lecture on Thursday.
He posted: 'Off to my first lecture this afternoon. Eyes peeled, ears open, brain engaged.'
Bookies slash odds on Sir Alex Ferguson taking the Republic of Ireland job
A leading bookmaker have slashed their odds of Sir Alex Ferguson becoming the next manager of the Republic of Ireland after a swathe of bets on the former Manchester United boss were placed this afternoon.
Boylesports have cut their odds from 66/1 to 20/1 after a "flood" of bets were placed on Sir Alex taking over from Giovanni Trapattoni, who resigned last month. Long-time favourite for the job is still Martin O’Neill with odds of 4/5 but Mick Carthy is also in there at 7/2.
Boylesports have cut their odds from 66/1 to 20/1 after a "flood" of bets were placed on Sir Alex taking over from Giovanni Trapattoni, who resigned last month. Long-time favourite for the job is still Martin O’Neill with odds of 4/5 but Mick Carthy is also in there at 7/2.
Ronaldo writes to Miami police
Cristiano Ronaldo has respectfully written to the Miami police force (Crockett & Tubbs?) to politely request that the two criminal charges brought against the pitch invader who broke onto the field to share an intense, elongated hug with the Real Madrid star when the Spanish side played Chelsea during a pre-season tournament in America.
The pitch invader, 20-year-old Albanian student Ronald Gjoka, has been charged with trespassing and disorderly conduct after being arrested by police at the Sun Life Stadium, though his attorney is concerned that the charges may lead to "problems with immigrations and his college" if they’re not dropped.
After learning of Gjoka’s situation, Ronaldo wrote the following letter to the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office:
"I understand your position and the importance of enforcing rules and law. However, I respectfully request that you and your office reconsider this decision and dismiss the two criminal charges this young man faces."
Deco banned
Deco has this afternoon been banned from football for an entire year by the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) after being found guilty of doping offences - not that his sentence is going to hit him particularly hard, especially seeing as it comes roughly a month after the former Porto, Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder officially announced his retirement.
Whether the years/injuries had caught up with him or whether he merely jumped before he was pushed, Deco retired from the game at the tail end of August at the grand old age of 36, having spent the last three years of his career back in Brazil with Fluminense.
Deco was caught with trace amounts of various illegal elixirs and potions in his blood (his defence team claim it was caused by a vitamin tablet) following a game against Boavista in March and was subsequently banned for 30 days, though the prosecutors sought a retrial as the verdict was deemed too lenient.
The second case was then opened at the start of September (a week or so after Deco retired) though proceedings were suspended until today after new evidence supposedly came to light.
Whether the years/injuries had caught up with him or whether he merely jumped before he was pushed, Deco retired from the game at the tail end of August at the grand old age of 36, having spent the last three years of his career back in Brazil with Fluminense.
Deco was caught with trace amounts of various illegal elixirs and potions in his blood (his defence team claim it was caused by a vitamin tablet) following a game against Boavista in March and was subsequently banned for 30 days, though the prosecutors sought a retrial as the verdict was deemed too lenient.
The second case was then opened at the start of September (a week or so after Deco retired) though proceedings were suspended until today after new evidence supposedly came to light.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
GIF : Bendtner kicks ball at ball-boy
Chancellor Angela Merkel catches Bastian Schweinsteiger in the nude
German chancellor Angela Merkel was once confronted by one of her country’s top footy stars in the buff, according to the president of the German football association Wolfgang Niersbach.
Niersbach let slip Merkel’s eye-popping experience while making a speech in Dusseldorf.
It seems that the recently re-elected head of the German government enjoys nothing more than a trip to see the national team in action and often pops into the dressing room after a game to chat to the players.
It was during one such visit, following Germany’s 4-2 win over Greece at Euro 2012, that Merkel was confronted with the naked star.
Niersbach said: ‘When the chancellor comes into the dressing room, they [the players] all have to be dressed – that was my job at that time. We forgot one player was still in the shower.’
Asked to name the mystery star, a cheeky Niersbach replied: ‘Not telling! That would be embarrassing for Bastian Schweinsteiger.’
Niersbach let slip Merkel’s eye-popping experience while making a speech in Dusseldorf.
It seems that the recently re-elected head of the German government enjoys nothing more than a trip to see the national team in action and often pops into the dressing room after a game to chat to the players.
It was during one such visit, following Germany’s 4-2 win over Greece at Euro 2012, that Merkel was confronted with the naked star.
Niersbach said: ‘When the chancellor comes into the dressing room, they [the players] all have to be dressed – that was my job at that time. We forgot one player was still in the shower.’
Asked to name the mystery star, a cheeky Niersbach replied: ‘Not telling! That would be embarrassing for Bastian Schweinsteiger.’
Bendtner sports new Pebbles haircut
GIF : Player has penalty saved, scores rebound with overhead kick
Rio Ferdinand to launch ‘The Footies’
Rio Ferdinand has decided to launch his own awards bash, the "Footies", which are described as "the Oscars" of the football industry.
According to the press release, the Footies will "bring together football and music" at a "star-studded event" which will "celebrate the best of what the season had to offer, with live music from headline acts famous for their love of football".
According to the press release, the Footies will "bring together football and music" at a "star-studded event" which will "celebrate the best of what the season had to offer, with live music from headline acts famous for their love of football".
Webb to referee first ever match at Buckingham Palace
Referee Howard Webb has taken charge of some of the biggest games in world football - the World Cup and Champions League finals to name just two.
But Webb will face his most unusual assignment yet on Monday October 7 when he takes charge of the first ever football match to be played at Buckingham Palace.
The game - which is being played between two Southern Amateur League sides, Civil Service FC and Polytechnic FC - has been arranged by Prince William as part of the Football Association's 150th anniversary celebrations to honour football's network of 400,000 vounteers.
Webb said: 'I’ve been lucky enough to referee some of the biggest games in football but to oversee a match at Buckingham Palace will be a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
'It’s also an honour to be involved in an event that celebrates the volunteers within football who give up their time so that millions of people can enjoy the nation’s favourite game.'
But Webb will face his most unusual assignment yet on Monday October 7 when he takes charge of the first ever football match to be played at Buckingham Palace.
The game - which is being played between two Southern Amateur League sides, Civil Service FC and Polytechnic FC - has been arranged by Prince William as part of the Football Association's 150th anniversary celebrations to honour football's network of 400,000 vounteers.
Webb said: 'I’ve been lucky enough to referee some of the biggest games in football but to oversee a match at Buckingham Palace will be a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
'It’s also an honour to be involved in an event that celebrates the volunteers within football who give up their time so that millions of people can enjoy the nation’s favourite game.'
Scott gets a firm grip on McFadden
What really happened the day Shearer put Gillespie in hospital
Keith Gillespie has lifted the lid on what really happened the day Alan Shearer knocked him out on a Newcastle team trip to Dublin.
The incident in 1997 caused shockwaves as Shearer was then England captain, and as such was expected to uphold the highest standards of behaviour both on and off the pitch.
But Shearer punched Gillespie in full daylight and in front of a posse of Sunday shoppers during a supposed team bonding trip to Ireland.
The former Manchester United and Northern Ireland winger reveals the full story in his new autobiography, How Not to be a Millionaire Footballer, which is being serialised in The Mirror.
'I was in giddy form and flicking bottle tops in the direction of of other players.
'Shearer was struck by a couple and getting wound up, which I found enjoyable, so I made him my target and tension brewed. It came to a head when I clumsily knocked some cutlery off the table.
'"F****** pick it up!" Shearer snapped.
'I thought he was talking to me like a small boy and shouted back. Red mist descended. We had a bit of a row and, for some reason, I asked him if he wanted to taker it outside. Madness.
'We emerged to a busy street. I took a swing at Shearer, but I was punch-drunk and inaccurate. He responded with as blow that sent me flying against a plant pot. I cracked my head and entered the blackout zone.
'The next thing I remember is the view from the hospital bed.'
The incident in 1997 caused shockwaves as Shearer was then England captain, and as such was expected to uphold the highest standards of behaviour both on and off the pitch.
But Shearer punched Gillespie in full daylight and in front of a posse of Sunday shoppers during a supposed team bonding trip to Ireland.
The former Manchester United and Northern Ireland winger reveals the full story in his new autobiography, How Not to be a Millionaire Footballer, which is being serialised in The Mirror.
'I was in giddy form and flicking bottle tops in the direction of of other players.
'Shearer was struck by a couple and getting wound up, which I found enjoyable, so I made him my target and tension brewed. It came to a head when I clumsily knocked some cutlery off the table.
'"F****** pick it up!" Shearer snapped.
'I thought he was talking to me like a small boy and shouted back. Red mist descended. We had a bit of a row and, for some reason, I asked him if he wanted to taker it outside. Madness.
'We emerged to a busy street. I took a swing at Shearer, but I was punch-drunk and inaccurate. He responded with as blow that sent me flying against a plant pot. I cracked my head and entered the blackout zone.
'The next thing I remember is the view from the hospital bed.'
Sandro and Paulinho show off their samba moves
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
GIF : Marco Van Ginkel’s nasty knee twist
Bale rents Kaka’s house
Gareth Bale is going for the authentic galactico experience at Real Madrid by renting the house of Brazil star Kaka.
With Kaka returning to Italy for a season-long loan with AC Milan, the former Tottenham man is set to move into his pad.
The Welshman will live in the €7.2 million mansion for his first season in Spain at least.
The club mediated a deal to ensure that nobody was getting ripped off, with Bale paying landlord Kaka a reported €12,000-a-month in rent.
The property is in the exclusive La Finca area of Pozuelo de Alarcón, where Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casillas, Karim Benzema and Sergio Ramos will be among Bale’s new neighbours.
Bale will reside in a master suite on the upperfloor, which includes a large dressing room and bathroom, plus an office.
The ground floor boasts four en-suite bedroom, a double height living room and fireplace.
The house also has a 400sq metres basement, a six-car garage, indoor pool, gym, two utility rooms and several terraces and porches.
With Kaka returning to Italy for a season-long loan with AC Milan, the former Tottenham man is set to move into his pad.
The Welshman will live in the €7.2 million mansion for his first season in Spain at least.
The club mediated a deal to ensure that nobody was getting ripped off, with Bale paying landlord Kaka a reported €12,000-a-month in rent.
The property is in the exclusive La Finca area of Pozuelo de Alarcón, where Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casillas, Karim Benzema and Sergio Ramos will be among Bale’s new neighbours.
Bale will reside in a master suite on the upperfloor, which includes a large dressing room and bathroom, plus an office.
The ground floor boasts four en-suite bedroom, a double height living room and fireplace.
The house also has a 400sq metres basement, a six-car garage, indoor pool, gym, two utility rooms and several terraces and porches.
Vertonghen pulls down Nicklas Helenius’ shorts
Bolt offers to train Bale
Usain Bolt believes Gareth Bale is the fastest football player in the world, but the 100metre world-record holder says he can make the Real Madrid winger even quicker.
Bale clocked an incredible 40kmh during Real Madrid’s draw with Villarreal in his debut - almost 25mph, just 2mph behind Bolt’s world-record speed.
Despite expressing concerns over his fitness due to a lack of pre-season, the Wales star’s best burst of pace came on the hour in that 1-1 draw against Villarreal when he made a 20m dash down the right-hand side before pulling the ball back from the byline and crashing into the advertising hoardings at the Madrigal stadium.
And 100m Olympic and world champion Bolt says the Jamaican will teach Bale how to run even faster if the player and Real Madrid want him to.
‘I think Gareth is probably the fastest player in the world at the moment - but I will help him with his sprinting if he wants,’ Bolt said.
The world’s fastest man added that he trained with Bale’s new team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo in a session too, and is clearly willing to do the same for the former Tottenham man.
Bale clocked an incredible 40kmh during Real Madrid’s draw with Villarreal in his debut - almost 25mph, just 2mph behind Bolt’s world-record speed.
Despite expressing concerns over his fitness due to a lack of pre-season, the Wales star’s best burst of pace came on the hour in that 1-1 draw against Villarreal when he made a 20m dash down the right-hand side before pulling the ball back from the byline and crashing into the advertising hoardings at the Madrigal stadium.
And 100m Olympic and world champion Bolt says the Jamaican will teach Bale how to run even faster if the player and Real Madrid want him to.
‘I think Gareth is probably the fastest player in the world at the moment - but I will help him with his sprinting if he wants,’ Bolt said.
The world’s fastest man added that he trained with Bale’s new team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo in a session too, and is clearly willing to do the same for the former Tottenham man.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Man City car washers gutted to lose big tipper Gareth Barry
Gareth Barry’s departure from Manchester City has not exactly been mourned by the club’s supporters - except those responsible for washing the players’ cars.
While his on-pitch exploits were not always appreciated at City, his tipping certainly was.
Staff who wash the cars at City’s Carrington training ground will miss Barry topping up their pay packets.
City’s squad of millionaires are charged £25 a pop for a clean and valet.
But apparently it’s tough to get that relative small change off some of the squad, and only Barry would offer a big tip after his car had been cleaned.
While his on-pitch exploits were not always appreciated at City, his tipping certainly was.
Staff who wash the cars at City’s Carrington training ground will miss Barry topping up their pay packets.
City’s squad of millionaires are charged £25 a pop for a clean and valet.
But apparently it’s tough to get that relative small change off some of the squad, and only Barry would offer a big tip after his car had been cleaned.
Paolo Di Canio conducts long-distance on-pitch conversation with angry Sunderland fans
Sakho banned from the club gym
Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho has been banned from the training ground gym for being too strong.
The Frenchman is barred from using the equipment until the Reds get it reinforced.
The ban was imposed after he broke a piece of equipment during a strength test.
The Frenchman is barred from using the equipment until the Reds get it reinforced.
The ban was imposed after he broke a piece of equipment during a strength test.
Sparta Prague player scores with his backside
Managers sacked after playing West Brom
Chris Hughton (Newcastle), Roberto Di Matteo, Andre Villas-Boas (both Chelsea) and now Paolo Di Canio (Sunderland) were all sacked after losing to West Bromwich.
Argentinos Juniors player breaks three teeth after headfirst slide tackle
Ozil raises Koscielny into the air by telekinesis
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Christian Eriksen gets off the mark for Tottenham
Cabaye handed £80,000 fine
Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye has been fined two weeks' wages for going on strike over his doomed move to Arsenal.
And manager Alan Pardew insists the incident is now 'dead and buried’ after the £80,000 punishment.
And manager Alan Pardew insists the incident is now 'dead and buried’ after the £80,000 punishment.
Friday, September 20, 2013
After being sent off, Jurgen Klopp watched the rest of Dortmund’s Champions League game with Napoli’s caretaker
Klopp calmed down en ruite to the tunnel and immediately set about trying to find a television to watch the remainder of the game on.
He happened to find one such television was in the Stadio San Paolo caretaker’s room, where he and the Napoli janitor, 61-year-old Vincenzo Gerrone snuggled up on the sofa, shared a slice of cake and settled in to watch the remaining hour of the tie.
"Klopp was really nice. That was the best visit since Diego Maradona," Vincenzo told Bild. "I had a bit of cake and water there. Then we sat together on the couch and watched the game."
"Mr Klopp was actually quite calm, but also a little nervous."
He happened to find one such television was in the Stadio San Paolo caretaker’s room, where he and the Napoli janitor, 61-year-old Vincenzo Gerrone snuggled up on the sofa, shared a slice of cake and settled in to watch the remaining hour of the tie.
"Klopp was really nice. That was the best visit since Diego Maradona," Vincenzo told Bild. "I had a bit of cake and water there. Then we sat together on the couch and watched the game."
"Mr Klopp was actually quite calm, but also a little nervous."
Bolt tries to tire out Aguero ahead of derby
Singapore police arrest 14 people in connection with global match-fixing
Police in Singapore have arrested 14 people involved in a global match-fixing ban.
Officials have identified 680 suspicious games, 380 of them in Europe including World Cup qualifiers and Champions League matches, played between 2008 and 2011.
Five of the culprits, made up of 12 men and two women, are being held for further questioning and the rest have been released on bail.
The illegal activity is believed to have involved players, referees and officials from around the world.
Officials have identified 680 suspicious games, 380 of them in Europe including World Cup qualifiers and Champions League matches, played between 2008 and 2011.
Five of the culprits, made up of 12 men and two women, are being held for further questioning and the rest have been released on bail.
The illegal activity is believed to have involved players, referees and officials from around the world.
Fulham to remove Michael Jackson statue from Craven Cottage
A spokesman for Fulham told reporters: "The Michael Jackson statue that stands at Fulham’s Craven Cottage stadium in west London is to be removed. It’s not part of the Riverside development of the stadium and will be returned to the former chairman in due course."
Bolt pleads with Moyes to get it right at Old Trafford
Usain Bolt has a message for David Moyes: stop stressing me out.
The sprinting phenomenon revealed that it isn't athletic competing that causes him the most angst, but watching Manchester United.
And Bolt, who plans to retire after the next Olympics, said he wants to 9.4seconds in the 100 metres in the next year.
'Football stresses me the most. When I’m watching football, especially when my team is not playing good, it stresses me out,' the Jamaican told The Clare Balding Show on BT Sport. 'Manchester United stresses me out every day, even when they win it stresses me out.
'Over the years of watching Man United, Sir Alex Ferguson is a genius, sometimes he does things that don’t make any sense but it works.
'So I know now that David Moyes is in and its going to take a while to warm up to him.'
Bolt played during Rio Ferdinand's testimonial against Sevilla at Old Trafford in August, realising a childhood dream, but it is more track success he has his immediate eyes on.
The sprinting phenomenon revealed that it isn't athletic competing that causes him the most angst, but watching Manchester United.
And Bolt, who plans to retire after the next Olympics, said he wants to 9.4seconds in the 100 metres in the next year.
'Football stresses me the most. When I’m watching football, especially when my team is not playing good, it stresses me out,' the Jamaican told The Clare Balding Show on BT Sport. 'Manchester United stresses me out every day, even when they win it stresses me out.
'Over the years of watching Man United, Sir Alex Ferguson is a genius, sometimes he does things that don’t make any sense but it works.
'So I know now that David Moyes is in and its going to take a while to warm up to him.'
Bolt played during Rio Ferdinand's testimonial against Sevilla at Old Trafford in August, realising a childhood dream, but it is more track success he has his immediate eyes on.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Uefa members back winter tournament in Qatar
The prospect of a winter World Cup in 2022 took a step forward after European football chiefs agreed a summer event could not be played in Qatar.
Summer temperatures in the Gulf state can reach 50C, sparking health fears for players and fans alike.
Uefa's 54 member associations backed the switch at a meeting in Croatia.
"The World Cup cannot be played in Qatar in the summer," said Fifa vice-president Jim Boyce. "Everyone was certainly in agreement about that."
Boyce, a former president of the Irish Football Association, added that the debate was now whether the tournament would be played in January of 2022 or in November and December of that year.
Uefa favours January so that it does not impact on the Champions League, but British associations want to ensure their domestic festive fixtures are protected.
Boyce says the associations do not want Fifa to rush that decision.
"There is still nine years to go and people feel Fifa should sit down with all the major stakeholders and come up with a solution that would cause the minimum disruption to football," he said.
"There is plenty of time to do that in my opinion."
Fifa could agree in principle to alter the timing of the World Cup at a meeting in Zurich early next month, but the news that European football chiefs are backing a switch is significant.
Summer temperatures in the Gulf state can reach 50C, sparking health fears for players and fans alike.
Uefa's 54 member associations backed the switch at a meeting in Croatia.
"The World Cup cannot be played in Qatar in the summer," said Fifa vice-president Jim Boyce. "Everyone was certainly in agreement about that."
Boyce, a former president of the Irish Football Association, added that the debate was now whether the tournament would be played in January of 2022 or in November and December of that year.
Uefa favours January so that it does not impact on the Champions League, but British associations want to ensure their domestic festive fixtures are protected.
Boyce says the associations do not want Fifa to rush that decision.
"There is still nine years to go and people feel Fifa should sit down with all the major stakeholders and come up with a solution that would cause the minimum disruption to football," he said.
"There is plenty of time to do that in my opinion."
Fifa could agree in principle to alter the timing of the World Cup at a meeting in Zurich early next month, but the news that European football chiefs are backing a switch is significant.
Hitting the crossbar three times in three seconds
Gay rights group withdraws support of ‘rainbow laces’
The gay rights group backing the ‘rainbow boot lace‘ campaign which is due to take place across all English and Scottish league football games have withdrawn their backing due to the "sexualised innuendo" of the chosen campaign slogan.
The ‘Football v Homophobia’ group were appalled by dual organisers Stonewall and Paddy Power’s decision to run with the slogan "Right Behind Gay Footballers".
Football v Homophobia released the following statement to explain their stance:
"Our discomfort is with the reliance on sexualised innuendo and stereotypes about gay men.
"We feel it is incongruous to run a campaign aiming to change football culture whilst using language which reinforces the very stereotypes and caricatures that, in the long term, ensure that homophobia persists."
The ‘Football v Homophobia’ group were appalled by dual organisers Stonewall and Paddy Power’s decision to run with the slogan "Right Behind Gay Footballers".
Football v Homophobia released the following statement to explain their stance:
"Our discomfort is with the reliance on sexualised innuendo and stereotypes about gay men.
"We feel it is incongruous to run a campaign aiming to change football culture whilst using language which reinforces the very stereotypes and caricatures that, in the long term, ensure that homophobia persists."
Brighton players forced to take taxis
Brighton players were forced to flag down taxis ahead of their match with QPR this weekend - after their team bus broke down.
Brighton’s stars soon flagged down cabs and got to the stadium, but despite the drama, they played out a 0-0 draw with QPR to take a point from the clash.
Goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak, who was signed from Manchester United, isn’t used to that sort of treatment after a spell at Old Trafford, but made light of it on Facebook after the match.
‘On the way to yesterday’s game, our coach broke down and we had to take a taxi to the stadium! That doesn’t happen every day, but it didn’t affect our solid draw!’
Brighton’s stars soon flagged down cabs and got to the stadium, but despite the drama, they played out a 0-0 draw with QPR to take a point from the clash.
Goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak, who was signed from Manchester United, isn’t used to that sort of treatment after a spell at Old Trafford, but made light of it on Facebook after the match.
‘On the way to yesterday’s game, our coach broke down and we had to take a taxi to the stadium! That doesn’t happen every day, but it didn’t affect our solid draw!’
Golazo
Young Rooney goal
Manchester United to introduce singing area
Manchester United will trial a 1,400-seat singing section for the Champions League home game against Spanish side Real Sociedad on 23 October.
Noise levels at Old Trafford have long been derided by the club's own fan groups and opposition supporters.
The club scrapped an earlier attempt at the venture after police refused to allow away fans to be relocated to the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand's third tier.
The signing section will be in the south east corner of the ground.
Sociedad's travelling fans, who would normally be housed there, will instead be in the East Stand.
United midfielder Michael Carrick wrote on Twitter it was a "great idea".
As part of the fan-led initiative, season ticket holders will be given priority, with any remaining tickets then offered to members.
United attempted to increase noise levels at the club last season by appointing an acoustic engineer.
Noise levels at Old Trafford have long been derided by the club's own fan groups and opposition supporters.
The club scrapped an earlier attempt at the venture after police refused to allow away fans to be relocated to the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand's third tier.
The signing section will be in the south east corner of the ground.
Sociedad's travelling fans, who would normally be housed there, will instead be in the East Stand.
United midfielder Michael Carrick wrote on Twitter it was a "great idea".
As part of the fan-led initiative, season ticket holders will be given priority, with any remaining tickets then offered to members.
United attempted to increase noise levels at the club last season by appointing an acoustic engineer.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
GIF : van Persie miss
Bale clocked sprinting almost 25mph
Despite insisting he's had no pre-season and being worried about his fitness, Bale was clocked sprinting at 40kmph in last Sunday’s draw with Villarreal - almost 25 mph just 2 mph behind Usain Bolt at world record speed.
Bale’s best burst of pace came on the hour in that 1-1 draw against Villarreal when he made a 20m dash down the right-hand side of Madrid’s attack before pulling the ball back from the byline and crashing into the advertising hoardings at the Madrigal stadium.
This all comes despite Bale revealing concerns over his fitness and admitted he has had 'zero pre-season' training to prepare for his first Spanish campaign.
Bale’s best burst of pace came on the hour in that 1-1 draw against Villarreal when he made a 20m dash down the right-hand side of Madrid’s attack before pulling the ball back from the byline and crashing into the advertising hoardings at the Madrigal stadium.
This all comes despite Bale revealing concerns over his fitness and admitted he has had 'zero pre-season' training to prepare for his first Spanish campaign.
The letter Man United have sent to fans
Rooney rages at ITV interviewer
Pensioner misses out on £1M payout after 92nd minute equaliser
West Bromwich Albion’s injury-time equaliser on Saturday against Fulham prevented a pensioner from winning a guaranteed £1million from just a £1 bet with bookmaker Coral.
The pensioner from Surrey accurately predicted the results of fourteen of the fifteen football matches in Coral's Football Jackpot accumulator - Britain's only £1million acca - with Liverpool’s draw with Swansea the final leg, and still netted £30,841.60 payout for his efforts.
The betting shop regular, who wishes to remain anonymous, is a keen horse racing punter, but never usually bets on football and doesn’t even follow the sport.
However, he decided to place the bet after he read about the bet in a Racing Club newsletter.
He said 'When I read about the Football jackpot I thought why not have a go. I mean a £1 is nothing these days, you can’t even get a pint of milk for a pound!'
The customer knew that on Monday before Swansea's 2-2 draw with Liverpool that he needed a draw in the final leg of the 15-match bet, but couldn't watch the game with it being on Sky Sports.
'I never bet on football, I don’t even watch it, so I didn’t watch the Swansea v Liverpool match last night and went to bed not knowing the result.
The pensioner from Surrey accurately predicted the results of fourteen of the fifteen football matches in Coral's Football Jackpot accumulator - Britain's only £1million acca - with Liverpool’s draw with Swansea the final leg, and still netted £30,841.60 payout for his efforts.
The betting shop regular, who wishes to remain anonymous, is a keen horse racing punter, but never usually bets on football and doesn’t even follow the sport.
However, he decided to place the bet after he read about the bet in a Racing Club newsletter.
He said 'When I read about the Football jackpot I thought why not have a go. I mean a £1 is nothing these days, you can’t even get a pint of milk for a pound!'
The customer knew that on Monday before Swansea's 2-2 draw with Liverpool that he needed a draw in the final leg of the 15-match bet, but couldn't watch the game with it being on Sky Sports.
'I never bet on football, I don’t even watch it, so I didn’t watch the Swansea v Liverpool match last night and went to bed not knowing the result.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Brazilian team ‘assisted’ by sneaky masseur ejected from league as punishment
Kaka gesture lauded by Milan chief
AC Milan’s vice president Adriano Galliani has lauded Kaka’s gesture not to receive a wage during his injury absence, saying the player had called him in tears on Monday.
The Brazilian was ruled out for a month with an adductor tear picked up during his second debut for the Rossoneri on Saturday, and in a video message published on the club’s official website, he said he would rather receive affection than money during his time on the sidelines.
"Ricky is an extraordinary person. He called me, crying down the phone," Galliani said at a press conference in Milan. "He told me that he wanted to feel Milan’s affection and that he did not want a single euro until he was able to play again.
"This just underlines the extraordinary relationship between the fans and Kaka. I spoke to him on Friday afternoon and he told me how delighted he was to be back with Milan.
"The news today is not Kaka’s injury, but the demonstration on the part of Ricky, after the one 15 days ago when he lowered his salary considerably, that he wanted to send out another signal, and it’s fantastic."
The Brazilian was ruled out for a month with an adductor tear picked up during his second debut for the Rossoneri on Saturday, and in a video message published on the club’s official website, he said he would rather receive affection than money during his time on the sidelines.
"Ricky is an extraordinary person. He called me, crying down the phone," Galliani said at a press conference in Milan. "He told me that he wanted to feel Milan’s affection and that he did not want a single euro until he was able to play again.
"This just underlines the extraordinary relationship between the fans and Kaka. I spoke to him on Friday afternoon and he told me how delighted he was to be back with Milan.
"The news today is not Kaka’s injury, but the demonstration on the part of Ricky, after the one 15 days ago when he lowered his salary considerably, that he wanted to send out another signal, and it’s fantastic."
Di Canio regrets inviting referee to send him off
Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio said he regrets inviting the referee to send him off during their controversial 3-1 home defeat by Arsenal.
The Italian was sent to the stand after arguing with referee Martin Atkinson over alleged Arsenal time-wasting.
"He came to me and said 'if you keep going with your manner I will send you up to the stand'," Di Canio explained.
"I said if you want to complete a perfect job, you can send me off. He took it seriously and sent me off."
Di Canio, whose side sit bottom of the Premier League with one point from four games, added: "Next time I will never invite the referee to send me off because he took it seriously."
Appeal for Hillsborough witnesses
Thousands of witnesses to the Hillsborough disaster are to be re-interviewed as part of the fresh investigation by the police watchdog.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) wants people who were at the stadium in 1989 to contact its team examining the police actions.
The IPCC said its investigation was the biggest undertaken into police conduct in England and Wales.
Ninety-six Liverpool fans died after a crush at the FA Cup semi-final.
The match against Nottingham Forest was held at Sheffield Wednesday's Hillsborough stadium on 15 April 1989. Ninety-five fans died on the day and another died of his injuries four years later.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) wants people who were at the stadium in 1989 to contact its team examining the police actions.
The IPCC said its investigation was the biggest undertaken into police conduct in England and Wales.
Ninety-six Liverpool fans died after a crush at the FA Cup semi-final.
The match against Nottingham Forest was held at Sheffield Wednesday's Hillsborough stadium on 15 April 1989. Ninety-five fans died on the day and another died of his injuries four years later.
Red Bull Leipzig’s new kick-off tactics
Moyes in diving warning to Man Utd winger
Manchester United manager David Moyes warned his players he will not tolerate diving following the incident which led to winger Ashley Young being cautioned in the 2-0 win over Crystal Palace.
Young tumbled over after a challenge by Kagisho Dikgacoi in the first half but replays suggested the England international initiated the contact.
Moyes said: "I don't want my players diving. It's not what I want.
"Dikgacoi definitely throws his leg out but Ashley put his leg into his leg."
Referee Jon Moss showed Young a yellow card, although he later awarded a penalty when the same two players clashed again, just before half-time.
Young tumbled over after a challenge by Kagisho Dikgacoi in the first half but replays suggested the England international initiated the contact.
Moyes said: "I don't want my players diving. It's not what I want.
"Dikgacoi definitely throws his leg out but Ashley put his leg into his leg."
Referee Jon Moss showed Young a yellow card, although he later awarded a penalty when the same two players clashed again, just before half-time.
Player faints after being shown red card
Higginbotham in talks to make international debut for Gibraltar aged 34
Having recently become sworn in as UEFA’s 54th member nation back in May, Gibraltar are currently in the process of rounding up eligible players with one eye on a tilt at qualifying for Euro 2016.
Their dragnet search has finally reached the English Football Conference.
Former Stoke left-back Danny Higginbotham, who currently plies his trade at Chester, has reportedly been contacted about the possibility of making his international debut for Gibraltar, with whom he has links on his mother’s side of the family.
Apparently Higginbotham, now 34, was contacted on Twitter by Gibraltar’s manager Allen Bula, asking to talk privately about the possibility of the veteran defender making his international bow.
For the record, Bula is also Higginbotham’s uncle.
Their dragnet search has finally reached the English Football Conference.
Former Stoke left-back Danny Higginbotham, who currently plies his trade at Chester, has reportedly been contacted about the possibility of making his international debut for Gibraltar, with whom he has links on his mother’s side of the family.
Apparently Higginbotham, now 34, was contacted on Twitter by Gibraltar’s manager Allen Bula, asking to talk privately about the possibility of the veteran defender making his international bow.
For the record, Bula is also Higginbotham’s uncle.
Liverpool fan takes a tumble on live TV
Champions League ticket cancelled because his name didn't sound Danish enough
An FC Copenhagen fan has made a complaint to Danish police after the club cancelled Champions League tickets ordered by supporters with non-Danish sounding names.
'We believe it is a clear breach of racism legislation, of human rights and of the constitution,' Kashif Asmad told TV2 on Tuesday.
The club has said that it implemented the 'security measure' to stop away fans from group rivals Juventus, Galatasaray and Real Madrid mixing with home supporters at the Parken Stadium.
'We believe it is a clear breach of racism legislation, of human rights and of the constitution,' Kashif Asmad told TV2 on Tuesday.
The club has said that it implemented the 'security measure' to stop away fans from group rivals Juventus, Galatasaray and Real Madrid mixing with home supporters at the Parken Stadium.
Agger injured dodging dumbbell in the gym
Daniel Agger is facing a race to be fit for Liverpool’s weekend clash with Southampton after injuring his ribs in a freak gymnasium accident.
The Denmark international missed the 2-2 draw with Swansea after he hurt himself trying to avoid a falling weight on Sunday, as he limbered up for Liverpool’s final session before they headed to South Wales.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is unsure of the severity of Agger’s injury and he is also in the dark about the damage Philippe Coutinho has done to his shoulder.
The Denmark international missed the 2-2 draw with Swansea after he hurt himself trying to avoid a falling weight on Sunday, as he limbered up for Liverpool’s final session before they headed to South Wales.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is unsure of the severity of Agger’s injury and he is also in the dark about the damage Philippe Coutinho has done to his shoulder.
American woman hurls foul-mouthed rant at Ashley Cole
Bale wants to move into Ozil's mansion
Gareth Bale has already taken Mesut Ozil’s position as a galactico - now he is set to move into the Arsenal midfielder’s Madrid mansion.
It is understood former Tottenham winger Bale and his partner Emma have viewed the property, which is said to be worth £1million, in the Spanish capital’s exclusive La Moraleja district.
But the £86million world record signing, who scored on his debut in Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Villarreal, will view other properties before making a decision.
It is understood former Tottenham winger Bale and his partner Emma have viewed the property, which is said to be worth £1million, in the Spanish capital’s exclusive La Moraleja district.
But the £86million world record signing, who scored on his debut in Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Villarreal, will view other properties before making a decision.
Best pre-match ritual
Benfica residents Victory and Glory provide the most impressive side in Champions League football prior to kick-off.
One of the two eagles which live in the rafters of the Estadio do Luz swoop down from the roof, complete with club ribbons, onto a plinth in the middle of the pitch.
The birds of prey are beckoned by passionate fans and send the arena into raptures on big European nights.
Monday, September 16, 2013
Parachutist makes emergency landing during Conference match
Algerian striker open goal miss
Sevilla fans start campaign to tie down on-loan Marko Marin by finding him a Spanish wife
A group of enterprising Sevilla fans have started a campaign to shack Marko Marin up with a Spanish wife over the course of the next eight months in the hope that it will convince the jinky German winger to make his loan move from Chelsea permanent.
Marin joined Sevilla on a year-long deal earlier in the summer and has since put in a series of impressive shifts, scoring on his debut in Rio Ferdinand’s testimonial before hitting another two in Los Rojiblancos’ Europa League qualifier against Slask Wroclaw.
Therefore supporters are hoping that, by settling down with a local girl, Marin will extend his stay in the Andalusian city - and they’re confident of success too, what with current Sevilla captain Ivan Rakitic marrying his Spanish fiance back in April and subsequently knocking back several lucrative offers to move abroad this summer.
Marin joined Sevilla on a year-long deal earlier in the summer and has since put in a series of impressive shifts, scoring on his debut in Rio Ferdinand’s testimonial before hitting another two in Los Rojiblancos’ Europa League qualifier against Slask Wroclaw.
Therefore supporters are hoping that, by settling down with a local girl, Marin will extend his stay in the Andalusian city - and they’re confident of success too, what with current Sevilla captain Ivan Rakitic marrying his Spanish fiance back in April and subsequently knocking back several lucrative offers to move abroad this summer.
Obafemi Martins celebration
Footballers are sent rainbow laces to support campaign against homophobia
Professional footballers in England and Scotland have been invited to support a campaign addressing homophobia in the game by wearing rainbow laces in their boots next weekend.
Sets of laces have been sent to each individual player at every Premier League and Football League club, plus at the 42 teams in the Scottish Professional Football League by gay rights charity Stonewall, who are being backed by bookmaker Paddy Power.
The Right Behind Gay Footballers campaign is focused on changing attitudes in football rather than urging players to come out and wants players to wear the laces in games on September 21 and 22.
Sets of laces have been sent to each individual player at every Premier League and Football League club, plus at the 42 teams in the Scottish Professional Football League by gay rights charity Stonewall, who are being backed by bookmaker Paddy Power.
The Right Behind Gay Footballers campaign is focused on changing attitudes in football rather than urging players to come out and wants players to wear the laces in games on September 21 and 22.
Cavani promises to give shirt to disabled fan before kick-off ... duly delivers
Genoa coach caught spying
Sampdoria have claimed that the club apprehended a Genoa spy ahead of tomorrow evening’s Derby della Lanterna clash between the two sides.
Sampdoria reportedly caught Genoa’s youth goalkeeping coach, a chap named Luca De Pra, camped out among the trees on the hills that skirt Samp’s training ground as he watched and took notes on what was supposed to be a closed training session.
De Pra was dressed in camouflage gear and appeared to have holed himself up at the base of a tree. Indeed, Samp even described De Pra’s appearance as "like a new Rambo"in a statement issued on the club site, also claiming that a second Grifone spy on the other side of the training complex escaped before he could be bought in for questioning.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Funny soccer commercials
MLS talking Atlanta expansion
Major League Soccer and Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank are in "significant discussions" to bring an expansion team to the city, the Atlanta Journal Constitution reported Thursday.
The newspaper, citing anonymous sources with knowledge of the talks, said talks "accelerated" when the Falcons received permission for a new stadium, scheduled to be completed in 2017.
In 2012, Blank, a co-founder of The Home Depot, had used the possible attraction of an MLS franchise in his proposal for a retractable roof on the Falcons' stadium.
Blank and the MLS have discussed opening that new stadium with an Atlanta expansion team, according to the AJC.
MLS announced in July that it was looking to expand from 19 to 24 teams by 2020. The first of the new franchises, New York City FC, will begin play in 2015.
Orlando and Miami also look to be on the fast track for franchises. Orlando just needs to pass a tax proposal to fund a new stadium. David Beckham has an option to buy a discounted franchise and has concentrated on Miami.
The newspaper, citing anonymous sources with knowledge of the talks, said talks "accelerated" when the Falcons received permission for a new stadium, scheduled to be completed in 2017.
In 2012, Blank, a co-founder of The Home Depot, had used the possible attraction of an MLS franchise in his proposal for a retractable roof on the Falcons' stadium.
Blank and the MLS have discussed opening that new stadium with an Atlanta expansion team, according to the AJC.
MLS announced in July that it was looking to expand from 19 to 24 teams by 2020. The first of the new franchises, New York City FC, will begin play in 2015.
Orlando and Miami also look to be on the fast track for franchises. Orlando just needs to pass a tax proposal to fund a new stadium. David Beckham has an option to buy a discounted franchise and has concentrated on Miami.
Eto'o: I used to HATE Mourinho... now he's my coach at Chelsea - and a good friend
New Chelsea centre forward Samuel Eto'o has revealed he hated Jose Mourinho before working alongside him at Inter Milan.
While Eto'o was at Barcelona the Catalan club had many run ins with Mourinho in his first spell at Stamford Bridge and the striker admitted he said he would never play for the Portuguese.
However, when they joined forces at Inter Milan in 2009-2010 the Italian side won the Treble and the 32-year-old's opinion of Mourinho changed markedly.
'Before meeting at Inter, we didn't know each other personally, so our relationship was tense,' Eto'o told The Sun. 'I even said one time that I'd never play for a club where Jose was coach.
'But God knows best. He wanted to show me that I was wrong and today Jose is a friend. Now he's my coach again.'
Eto'o arrived at Chelsea for £7million from Anzhi Makhachkala at the end of the transfer window following the club's failed summer-long pursuit of Wayne Rooney.
The Cameroonian has occasionally been accused of being a problematic influence, which contributed to his departure from Barcelona in 2009 but under Mourinho at Inter his commitment was unwavering as he often played out of position, wide on the right.
Eto'o also revealed that he was strongly linked with Chelsea in 2006, before Andriy Shevchenko was eventually signed for £30m.
While Eto'o was at Barcelona the Catalan club had many run ins with Mourinho in his first spell at Stamford Bridge and the striker admitted he said he would never play for the Portuguese.
However, when they joined forces at Inter Milan in 2009-2010 the Italian side won the Treble and the 32-year-old's opinion of Mourinho changed markedly.
'Before meeting at Inter, we didn't know each other personally, so our relationship was tense,' Eto'o told The Sun. 'I even said one time that I'd never play for a club where Jose was coach.
'But God knows best. He wanted to show me that I was wrong and today Jose is a friend. Now he's my coach again.'
Eto'o arrived at Chelsea for £7million from Anzhi Makhachkala at the end of the transfer window following the club's failed summer-long pursuit of Wayne Rooney.
The Cameroonian has occasionally been accused of being a problematic influence, which contributed to his departure from Barcelona in 2009 but under Mourinho at Inter his commitment was unwavering as he often played out of position, wide on the right.
Eto'o also revealed that he was strongly linked with Chelsea in 2006, before Andriy Shevchenko was eventually signed for £30m.
Idiot Goalkeeper
Friday, September 13, 2013
Spurs new signings worth over £100million
Striker faces jail after assaulting supporter
Sheffield Wednesday striker Gary Madine has been told he is likely to be jailed after he was found guilty of punching two men in separate nightclub attacks.
The 23-year-old shook his head after he was found guilty of causing Sheffield United fan Reece Hall grievous bodily harm at Leeds Crown Court.
A jury earlier found him guilty of causing Wednesday fan Daniel Beresford actual bodily harm. The trial lasted a week and there were more than seven hours of deliberations.
Madine, who has a previous conviction for knocking a man out in a Carlisle pub, punched Mr Beresford in the Paris Bar in Sheffield city centre in February last year, breaking his nose.
Four weeks later, he punched bricklayer Mr Hall in the city's Viper Room club, shattering his cheekbone.
Today Judge Rodney Jameson QC gave Madine bail but told him: 'You must understand that an immediate custodial sentence is very likely.'
Judge Jameson told the jury of seven men and five women: 'I agree with all of your verdicts. I think you've got it absolutely spot on.'
The judge adjourned the case for sentencing so reports can be prepared. No sentencing date was fixed.
The 23-year-old shook his head after he was found guilty of causing Sheffield United fan Reece Hall grievous bodily harm at Leeds Crown Court.
A jury earlier found him guilty of causing Wednesday fan Daniel Beresford actual bodily harm. The trial lasted a week and there were more than seven hours of deliberations.
Madine, who has a previous conviction for knocking a man out in a Carlisle pub, punched Mr Beresford in the Paris Bar in Sheffield city centre in February last year, breaking his nose.
Four weeks later, he punched bricklayer Mr Hall in the city's Viper Room club, shattering his cheekbone.
Today Judge Rodney Jameson QC gave Madine bail but told him: 'You must understand that an immediate custodial sentence is very likely.'
Judge Jameson told the jury of seven men and five women: 'I agree with all of your verdicts. I think you've got it absolutely spot on.'
The judge adjourned the case for sentencing so reports can be prepared. No sentencing date was fixed.
Cheerleaders return for half-time show at Craven Cottage
The Jacksonville Jaguars cheerleaders are back in London on Saturday to give a performance at Fulham's match with West Brom.
The ROAR of the Jaguars are in the capital promoting their NFL side ahead of their clash with the San Francisco 49ers at Wembley at the end of October.
Fellaini won more headers than all 11 United midfielders combined
Serbia-Croatia tackle
FC Luzern want to hire 'sexy dancers' to lure crowds
Swiss side FC Luzern have made a decent start to the season so far, winning thrice and drawing twice in their opening five fixtures. However, it would appear that maintaining an unbeaten streak hasn't proved enough to pull in the punters, with owner Bernard Alpstaeg having to explore alternative methods of getting bums on seats at the Swissporarena.
Alpstaeg's proposal is beautifully simple: hire "sexy dancers" to dance sexily before kick-off. The 68-year-old millionaire outlined his plans to Blick:
"It is going well. Alex Frei and Vladimir Kinder (Luzern's director of sport and head coach respectively) do a super job. We have a great team. FCL inspires. FCL is sexy again! But we can be even more attractive!
"I want a show before kick-off. Preferably scantily-clad, sexy dancers to entertain fans before the game. The stadium would be full, guaranteed!"
Sadly for Alpstaeg, it looks almost certain that his plans will be thrown out by the Swiss Football League, as current rules state that only players, coaching staff and television crews are allowed onto the pitch for the hour before kick-off, as SFL chairman Edmond Isoz also explained to Blick:
"Because we carry every game live on TV, we must adhere to a strict timetable. The countdown begins an hour before the game.
"The teams begin to warm up on the field about 45 minutes before kick-off. At least 10 minutes before kick-off players and referees must be in the dressing rooms. About 5 minutes before the start they gather in the players' tunnel.
Alpstaeg's proposal is beautifully simple: hire "sexy dancers" to dance sexily before kick-off. The 68-year-old millionaire outlined his plans to Blick:
"It is going well. Alex Frei and Vladimir Kinder (Luzern's director of sport and head coach respectively) do a super job. We have a great team. FCL inspires. FCL is sexy again! But we can be even more attractive!
"I want a show before kick-off. Preferably scantily-clad, sexy dancers to entertain fans before the game. The stadium would be full, guaranteed!"
Sadly for Alpstaeg, it looks almost certain that his plans will be thrown out by the Swiss Football League, as current rules state that only players, coaching staff and television crews are allowed onto the pitch for the hour before kick-off, as SFL chairman Edmond Isoz also explained to Blick:
"Because we carry every game live on TV, we must adhere to a strict timetable. The countdown begins an hour before the game.
"The teams begin to warm up on the field about 45 minutes before kick-off. At least 10 minutes before kick-off players and referees must be in the dressing rooms. About 5 minutes before the start they gather in the players' tunnel.
Ronaldo tackles Bale
History of record transfers
Fergie's live appearance sells out in 20 minutes
Tickets for Sir Alex Ferguson's live appearance at The Lowry Art and Entertainment centre in Manchester next month have sold out in just 20 minutes.
Ferguson, who is launching his new autobiography, titled 'My Autobiography', will be discussing the highlights of his extraordinary career, which ended in May following his retirement as Manchester United manager.
A limited amount of tickets went on sale on Friday morning at 10am, but with huge demand expected, they had all gone by 10.20.
Ferguson, who is launching his new autobiography, titled 'My Autobiography', will be discussing the highlights of his extraordinary career, which ended in May following his retirement as Manchester United manager.
A limited amount of tickets went on sale on Friday morning at 10am, but with huge demand expected, they had all gone by 10.20.
Midfielder nutmegs defender three times
Man City fan vows to get Man Utd tattoo for charity
A Manchester City supporter has promised to get a Manchester United tattoo if he manages to raise £1,500 for charity.
Chris Worthington, of Macclesfield, is raising funds for the When You Wish Upon Star charity, which helped his seven-year-old daughter Poppy during her battle with a brain tumour.
If he reaches his target, Chris will gets a United badge tattooed on his forearm.
The 45-year-old told the Manchester Evening News: "I wanted to raise some money to thank them and this idea just popped into my head.
"I’m not in shape to run a marathon and I couldn’t think of anything more personally painful than a United tattoo on me for the rest of my life."
He is promising the tattoo will be the size of a jam jar lid.
He added: "I have no other tattoos, so this is going to be quite a thing.
"I didn’t want it to be hidden away, so I’m committed to it being on my forearm so it is obvious.
"Some of my City-supporting friends have refused to pay, unless I reach my target, so it looks like I’ll be appealing to those devious United fans to help me."
You can donate at justgiving.com/chris-worthington2.
Chris Worthington, of Macclesfield, is raising funds for the When You Wish Upon Star charity, which helped his seven-year-old daughter Poppy during her battle with a brain tumour.
If he reaches his target, Chris will gets a United badge tattooed on his forearm.
The 45-year-old told the Manchester Evening News: "I wanted to raise some money to thank them and this idea just popped into my head.
"I’m not in shape to run a marathon and I couldn’t think of anything more personally painful than a United tattoo on me for the rest of my life."
He is promising the tattoo will be the size of a jam jar lid.
He added: "I have no other tattoos, so this is going to be quite a thing.
"I didn’t want it to be hidden away, so I’m committed to it being on my forearm so it is obvious.
"Some of my City-supporting friends have refused to pay, unless I reach my target, so it looks like I’ll be appealing to those devious United fans to help me."
You can donate at justgiving.com/chris-worthington2.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
First £1000 player
Alf Common became the first player to be transferred for £1,000 when he moved to Middlesbrough in 1905.
Common played three times for England, scoring two goals
Chinese U20 side score 'group effort' own-goal
Macedonia start second half of Scotland match without their goalkeeper
For four seconds at the start of the second half of their World Cup qualifier in Skopje, referee Fredy Fautrel allowed play to start with hosts Macedonia having just ten players on the pitch.
However, Frenchman Fautrel realised his mistake and blew up a few seconds later, allowing a sheepish Pacovski to dart onto the pitch.
However, Frenchman Fautrel realised his mistake and blew up a few seconds later, allowing a sheepish Pacovski to dart onto the pitch.
Shevchenko set for pro golf debut
Former Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko is set to make his professional golf debut at a Challenge Tour event in his native Ukraine this week.
Shevchenko has been handed a special invite for the event, the Kharkov Superior Cup, which is ranked just one tier lower than the full European Tour.
The 36-year-old, who retired from football last year, will be part of an experienced field which features three-time European Tour winner Nick Dougherty and former Ryder Cup player Oliver Wilson.
Shevchenko, who joined Chelsea from Milan in 2006, said: ‘This is the first big event for me and of course it is the first major professional tournament in Ukraine.
‘I have played with many good players in Pro-Ams but it’s very different out here. I’m looking forward to it and hope I play well but it’s my first event so I just want to have a good time and enjoy the week.’
The former European Player of the Year, who is a two-handicapper, added: ‘The course is quite difficult. I’m happy with my game at the moment and I’m really happy to be here. I know the President of the club, he is my good friend and his daughter has been caddying for me. He invited me to come and I had to.’
Beckham signs For Arsenal
Arsenal have signed David Beckham’s son Romeo on a one-year youth contract.
According to ITV Football, the 10-year-old, who is known to be a big Arsenal fan (he’s been pictured charging around in an Oxlade-Chamberlain shirt during a kickabout with his old man before) has joined the Arsenal youth academy on a development contract.
According to ITV Football, the 10-year-old, who is known to be a big Arsenal fan (he’s been pictured charging around in an Oxlade-Chamberlain shirt during a kickabout with his old man before) has joined the Arsenal youth academy on a development contract.
FIFA 14′s goal celebrations tutorial
Most expensive clubs
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Messi’s footwork in flipbook animation
Twente star buys his girlfriend a horse
FC Twente midfielder Leroy Fer has become a laughing stock among his team-mates after buying his girlfriend a pet horse - only to find out she can’t keep it as she lives in a block of flats.
Holland international Fer, who has previously been courted by Newcastle and Everton, made the extravagant purchase at an auction of former race horses.
The 22-year-old visited the auction with his girlfriend and other Dutch celebrities, and opened his cheque book after Fer’s lady friend took a liking to famous stallion by the name of Django.
Fer splashed out just over £22,000 on the horse, and in a bid to impress, kept the whole thing a secret before announcing it to her expecting a positive reaction.
However, while his girlfriend was extremely flattered, she had to point out that she lives in a block of flats, and has no way of keeping or looking after poor Django.
With no suitable stable space available in the area, Fer has been forced to quickly offload the horse, and is now facing plenty of uncomfortable comments about his relationship from his team-mates.
Holland international Fer, who has previously been courted by Newcastle and Everton, made the extravagant purchase at an auction of former race horses.
The 22-year-old visited the auction with his girlfriend and other Dutch celebrities, and opened his cheque book after Fer’s lady friend took a liking to famous stallion by the name of Django.
Fer splashed out just over £22,000 on the horse, and in a bid to impress, kept the whole thing a secret before announcing it to her expecting a positive reaction.
However, while his girlfriend was extremely flattered, she had to point out that she lives in a block of flats, and has no way of keeping or looking after poor Django.
With no suitable stable space available in the area, Fer has been forced to quickly offload the horse, and is now facing plenty of uncomfortable comments about his relationship from his team-mates.
Worst corner kick ever
Booze advert blitz of TV football
Armchair football fans are constantly bombarded by references to alcohol as they watch matches, a study has found.
Games shown on TV contained more than 100 images of beer, wine and other drinks every hour, from adverts on pitch billboards to logos on players’ shirts, Newcastle University discovered.
This includes adverts on the billboards that surround the pitch and logos on players’ shirts and equates to almost two references a minute.
Researchers have now called for so-called ‘embedded advertising’ to be covered by law for health reasons and to reduce the chances of youngsters being exposed to alcohol marketing.
Previous studies have shown that alcohol marketing increases the odds that under-16s will start to drink – and that those who already drink will drink more.
Games shown on TV contained more than 100 images of beer, wine and other drinks every hour, from adverts on pitch billboards to logos on players’ shirts, Newcastle University discovered.
This includes adverts on the billboards that surround the pitch and logos on players’ shirts and equates to almost two references a minute.
Researchers have now called for so-called ‘embedded advertising’ to be covered by law for health reasons and to reduce the chances of youngsters being exposed to alcohol marketing.
Previous studies have shown that alcohol marketing increases the odds that under-16s will start to drink – and that those who already drink will drink more.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Alberto Gilardino has tattoo of Peppa Pig
Horror stamp in 'friendly'
Economy could suffer '£2billion' hit if England fail to qualify
The British economy could suffer a £2billion hit if England fail to qualify for the World Cup, it has been claimed.
Retaail trade association The British Retail Consortium estimated that should England miss a World Cup finals for the first time in 20 years, the ramifications will spread to all corners of the economy.
The Football Association has been warned off the possible commercial disaster and the knock-on effect.
The governing body face losses of up to £50million in potential cash prize, merchandising and sponsorship dealz, while the wider economy would lose out.
Industries such as pubs, supermarkets, bookmakers, airlines and TV retailers all receive a boost when England qualify for major tournaments.
Retaail trade association The British Retail Consortium estimated that should England miss a World Cup finals for the first time in 20 years, the ramifications will spread to all corners of the economy.
The Football Association has been warned off the possible commercial disaster and the knock-on effect.
The governing body face losses of up to £50million in potential cash prize, merchandising and sponsorship dealz, while the wider economy would lose out.
Industries such as pubs, supermarkets, bookmakers, airlines and TV retailers all receive a boost when England qualify for major tournaments.
Sir Alex to receive honorary freedom of Trafford
Former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will be formally honoured at a meeting of councillors on October 14, said Trafford Council.
Sir Alex is also being recognised by the local authority with the renaming of a road near Old Trafford stadium from Waters Reach to Sir Alex Ferguson Way.
It means that on the day of a home game United's new manager Moyes will stand in the shadow of the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, having driven to work along Sir Alex Ferguson Way, in the borough of Ferguson's Trafford.
Sir Alex is also being recognised by the local authority with the renaming of a road near Old Trafford stadium from Waters Reach to Sir Alex Ferguson Way.
It means that on the day of a home game United's new manager Moyes will stand in the shadow of the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, having driven to work along Sir Alex Ferguson Way, in the borough of Ferguson's Trafford.
Soccer Am-best of crossbar challenge
Monday, September 09, 2013
Agbonlahor vs One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson
Noone tiled Gerrard's roof
Carfiff winger Craig Noone, 25, has made it to the Premier League barely five years after tiling Steven Gerrard's roof as he combined the day job with part-time football at Southport.
Gerrard's wife, Alex Curran, would provide him with a soft drink and a sausage roll to help fuel his labours.
"One week I was tiling roofs and playing non-league football, the next I was a full-time professional," he recalled.
Gerrard's wife, Alex Curran, would provide him with a soft drink and a sausage roll to help fuel his labours.
"One week I was tiling roofs and playing non-league football, the next I was a full-time professional," he recalled.
Juan Mata outrageous skill owns Raul Alboil
Gareth Bale security under microscope
The Football Association of Wales [FAW] insist they will not initiate a formal investigation into enhancing security around Gareth Bale during national team matches.
Bale, an unused substitute in Wales' 2-1 defeat to Macedonia, was approached by two fans on the pitch as he warmed up during the half-time break.
The FAW pointed the finger at Macedonian authorities for allowing the incident to happen at the Philip II Arena, but will not carry out a review as they feel the responsibility lay with their counterparts in Skopje.
Bale, an unused substitute in Wales' 2-1 defeat to Macedonia, was approached by two fans on the pitch as he warmed up during the half-time break.
The FAW pointed the finger at Macedonian authorities for allowing the incident to happen at the Philip II Arena, but will not carry out a review as they feel the responsibility lay with their counterparts in Skopje.
Dog scores
GIF : Ronaldo nutmeg
2% of Barcelona fans don't want Messi in the team
Barcelona club president Sandro Rosell has made the astonishing revelation that in a poll conducted amongst fans 2% said they did not want Lionel Messi in their team.
Since he joined the club in 2000, aged 13, Messi has scored 220 league goals in 248 matches, won six La Liga titles, three Champions Leagues trophies and the Spanish Cup, the European Super Cup and Club World Cup twice each.
His list of accolades could fill a short novel and this season alone he has already netted five goals in just two matches, scoring twice in their opening league game against Levante and a hat-trick in a 3-2 win against Valencia.
Since he joined the club in 2000, aged 13, Messi has scored 220 league goals in 248 matches, won six La Liga titles, three Champions Leagues trophies and the Spanish Cup, the European Super Cup and Club World Cup twice each.
His list of accolades could fill a short novel and this season alone he has already netted five goals in just two matches, scoring twice in their opening league game against Levante and a hat-trick in a 3-2 win against Valencia.
Giroud seated keep-ups
Friday, September 06, 2013
FK Vozdovac Belgrade build new stadium on roof of shopping centre
Real Madrid Could Have Signed Neymar For Just €60,000 In 2006
Coleman misses Wales flight after losing passport
Wales manager Chris Coleman has been left with a face as red as the national strip after missing the team’s flight to Macedonia.
With much of the talk surrounding Friday’s World Cup qualifier focused on Gareth Bale’s fitness, Coleman caused an unexpected stir by losing his passport.
Assistant manager Kit Symons stepped in to face the media and take training in Skopje, after Coleman had to rush to Newport this morning in order to obtain a new passport.
Symons said: ‘There were a couple of passport issues which needed to be resolved and they have been and he will be landing imminently.
‘It was a minor issue which has been dealt with, it is sorted so there are no dramas.
‘He will not make training but all the tactical stuff has been done during the week and it’s just about the boys stretching their legs tonight, so it will not be a disruption.
‘I have not spoken to him since this morning, I am sure he will bat it off and get on with it and not be embarrassed.
‘It is not going to affect the set-up for the game in any way, shape or form.
‘It is unfortunate and we do not want it happening again. But it is not the end of the world and it will be no excuse if we do not perform.’
Coleman eventually made the journey to Skopje from Heathrow via Vienna, but captain Ashley Williams appeared amused by the incident, joking: ‘I’ve got my passport!’
With much of the talk surrounding Friday’s World Cup qualifier focused on Gareth Bale’s fitness, Coleman caused an unexpected stir by losing his passport.
Assistant manager Kit Symons stepped in to face the media and take training in Skopje, after Coleman had to rush to Newport this morning in order to obtain a new passport.
Symons said: ‘There were a couple of passport issues which needed to be resolved and they have been and he will be landing imminently.
‘It was a minor issue which has been dealt with, it is sorted so there are no dramas.
‘He will not make training but all the tactical stuff has been done during the week and it’s just about the boys stretching their legs tonight, so it will not be a disruption.
‘I have not spoken to him since this morning, I am sure he will bat it off and get on with it and not be embarrassed.
‘It is not going to affect the set-up for the game in any way, shape or form.
‘It is unfortunate and we do not want it happening again. But it is not the end of the world and it will be no excuse if we do not perform.’
Coleman eventually made the journey to Skopje from Heathrow via Vienna, but captain Ashley Williams appeared amused by the incident, joking: ‘I’ve got my passport!’
Finland newspaper tells team to ‘park the bus’ against Spain
Bale only 17th best according to FIFA 14
Gareth Bale may be the world's most expensive player but he is only ranked 17th in FIFA 14's list of top footballers.
The Welshman has less ability on the popular computer game than the likes of Wayne Rooney, ranked 13th, and Robin Van Persie, ranked sixth - the highest of any Premier League players.
The Welshman has less ability on the popular computer game than the likes of Wayne Rooney, ranked 13th, and Robin Van Persie, ranked sixth - the highest of any Premier League players.
Arsenal launch probe on boast from academy coach of 14/1 bet
Arsenal have confirmed they are investigating 'as a matter of urgency' tweets posted on transfer deadline day by Gunners academy coach Mark Arber that suggested he bet on Mesut Ozil's arrival.
Arber, a former professional footballer whose father Bob is an Arsenal scout, boasted on social media he was ITK (In the Know) about Arsenal transfer activity, tweeted: ‘Lovely bit of 14-1 Mesut.’
Arber, a former professional footballer whose father Bob is an Arsenal scout, boasted on social media he was ITK (In the Know) about Arsenal transfer activity, tweeted: ‘Lovely bit of 14-1 Mesut.’
Valderrama dyes his locks pink for a worthy cause
Colombia midfield legend Carlos Valderrama is well known around the globe for his huge blond hair but he has taken the decision to dye his locks pink for a worthy cause.
The man known as 'El Pibe' had given notice he was planning the eye-catching gesture, designed to raise awareness for a breast cancer walk the 52-year-old is undertaking on Monday in his native Colombia.
Clearly a man of his word, Valderrama followed through on his promise he made to the Avon foundation and is now sporting pink hair.
Abidal slams Barcelona for not paying him
Eric Abidal has blasted Barcelona for the way they pushed him out of the club and even suggested they did not pay him when he was recovering from a liver transplant.
The French defender who has been ever present for Monaco this season after Barcelona got rid of him in the summer suggesting he was no longer fit to play at the highest level has spoken out against the club.
A Barcelona source responded to these suggestions, telling AS: 'Eric Abidal was paid in full under his contract and on time.
'Barça have been up to date at all moments, paying all the instalments. A part came from the medical insurers, although this part was very small.'
Abidal told L'Equipe: 'If Guardiola was still at Barça then I would probably have stayed. He is someone who appreciated me and we have stayed in contact. He is a wonderful coach.'
It was president Sandro Rosell who made the decision to get rid of Abidal who is now back in the France side and the defender said: 'It was difficult to accept their decision. But what choice did I have?
'The things that Barça were saying in the press conference that they held to announce my departure did not make a lot of sense. It was not about money because during the months when I was ill the club did not pay me.'
The French defender who has been ever present for Monaco this season after Barcelona got rid of him in the summer suggesting he was no longer fit to play at the highest level has spoken out against the club.
A Barcelona source responded to these suggestions, telling AS: 'Eric Abidal was paid in full under his contract and on time.
'Barça have been up to date at all moments, paying all the instalments. A part came from the medical insurers, although this part was very small.'
Abidal told L'Equipe: 'If Guardiola was still at Barça then I would probably have stayed. He is someone who appreciated me and we have stayed in contact. He is a wonderful coach.'
It was president Sandro Rosell who made the decision to get rid of Abidal who is now back in the France side and the defender said: 'It was difficult to accept their decision. But what choice did I have?
'The things that Barça were saying in the press conference that they held to announce my departure did not make a lot of sense. It was not about money because during the months when I was ill the club did not pay me.'
Thursday, September 05, 2013
Old boys return to Newcastle for Harper's charity match
Razvan Rat lends a hand at the ticket office
Fans hunt for all Southampton signatures
Two Southampton football fans are just 40 signatures away from collecting the autographs of every player that has turned out for the club since 1945.
Father and son Steve and Michael Morrison are attempting to collect signatures of 620 post-war players.
They have picked up names including Matt le Tissier, Kevin Keegan, Gareth Bale, Mick Channon and Peter Shilton.
Steve Morrrison said: "It's a fantastic collection which demonstrates our love for the football club."
The 46-year-old began collecting autographs as a child, but took on the challenge when his own son starting attending matches with him.
As well as approaching individual players, the pair use online auction sites as well as autograph dealers to build up the collection.
Transfer cancelled because of teeth
Left-back Aly Cissokho recently joined Liverpool on loan from Valencia, but his transfer to AC Milan collapsed in 2009 after the Italians claimed they had found a problem with his teeth during his medical.
Eto'o comic book
Samuel Eto'o published the first volume of an autobiographical comic book in January which tells the story of his childhood selling fish on the streets of Douala.
Bale wearing a Real Madrid kit as a 15-year-old.
Evra says he has to bring burgers to team-mate Anderson
Gerrard touts himself as a future Liverpool manager
Team forfeit cup tie to save players from pain of defeat
A football team in Bulgaria have made the decision to forfeit a cup tie to protect their players from the pain of defeat.
Third tier outfit Shumen had been drawn to play top flight side Chemomorets Burgas in the last 32 of the Bulgarian Cup, with the first leg scheduled for September 18.
However, Georgi Georgiey, president of Shumen has refused to play the cup tie fearful of the damage a heavy defeat from such strong opposition could have on his young players.
Shortly after the draw took place in Sofia on Tuesday, Georgiey issued a statement saying: ‘In order not to burden mentally our young boys, the team refuse to participate in the Bulgarian Cup.’
The Bulgarian Football Union have yet to make an official statement about Shumen’s decision, but it’s expected to hand Chemomorts, who are currently third from bottom in the top flight a walkover.
Third tier outfit Shumen had been drawn to play top flight side Chemomorets Burgas in the last 32 of the Bulgarian Cup, with the first leg scheduled for September 18.
However, Georgi Georgiey, president of Shumen has refused to play the cup tie fearful of the damage a heavy defeat from such strong opposition could have on his young players.
Shortly after the draw took place in Sofia on Tuesday, Georgiey issued a statement saying: ‘In order not to burden mentally our young boys, the team refuse to participate in the Bulgarian Cup.’
The Bulgarian Football Union have yet to make an official statement about Shumen’s decision, but it’s expected to hand Chemomorts, who are currently third from bottom in the top flight a walkover.
Spurs fans offered chance to swap old Gareth Bale shirts for free burger
A London restaurant is offering glum Tottenham fans a chance to get over losing Gareth Bale to Real Madrid this week - by swapping their old Bale shirts for a premium burger.
The Diner eatery has come up with the plan following Bale’s world-record £85million transfer to Real in the last few days.
Any sad supporters can get a perfect pick-me-up by taking along their old Bale Tottenham shirts to The Diner in the capital’s Soho district and exchanging it for some comfort food, with a free burger up for grabs.
The jersey amnesty runs until Saturday September 7, meaning Spurs fans can rid of all their Bale reminders and enjoy a meaty treat before their clash with Norwich after the international break.
The Diner eatery has come up with the plan following Bale’s world-record £85million transfer to Real in the last few days.
Any sad supporters can get a perfect pick-me-up by taking along their old Bale Tottenham shirts to The Diner in the capital’s Soho district and exchanging it for some comfort food, with a free burger up for grabs.
The jersey amnesty runs until Saturday September 7, meaning Spurs fans can rid of all their Bale reminders and enjoy a meaty treat before their clash with Norwich after the international break.
Real Madrid fan recycles old Mesut Ozil shirt
Messi and his Dad pay £4.2m to Spanish authorities
Barcelona forward Lionel Messi and his father Jorge have paid £4.2million to the Spanish authorities after they were accused in June of filing false tax returns, a court statement said on Wednesday.
The pair had deposited the money last month as a "corrective payment", and were still due to appear at a hearing on September 17, although their lawyer had asked for it to be postponed as he had another commitment that day.
The Argentine world player of the year and his father, who both denied wrongdoing, allegedly hid more than four million euros by filing incomplete returns for the years 2006 to 2009.
The sale of Messi's image rights had been hidden using a complex web of shell companies in Uruguay, Belize, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, the prosecutor's office for tax crimes in Catalonia said.
The pair had deposited the money last month as a "corrective payment", and were still due to appear at a hearing on September 17, although their lawyer had asked for it to be postponed as he had another commitment that day.
The Argentine world player of the year and his father, who both denied wrongdoing, allegedly hid more than four million euros by filing incomplete returns for the years 2006 to 2009.
The sale of Messi's image rights had been hidden using a complex web of shell companies in Uruguay, Belize, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, the prosecutor's office for tax crimes in Catalonia said.
Bolt backs Fellaini to shine at Old Trafford
Venezuela’s World Cup plans go down the pan
The Venezuela national football team have been dealt a severe blow ahead of their vital World Cup qualifier against Chile on Saturday.
Coach Cesar Farias has seen 20 of his squad, almost the entire side, wiped out by a stomach bug.
Farias, who has given no explanation as to what has laid his side low, said: ‘They [the squad] didn’t have a good night and they weren’t able to train well.’
The setback is a disaster for Farias, who knows a win is vital if his side are to have any hope of finally making an appearance in a World Cup finals.
Coach Cesar Farias has seen 20 of his squad, almost the entire side, wiped out by a stomach bug.
Farias, who has given no explanation as to what has laid his side low, said: ‘They [the squad] didn’t have a good night and they weren’t able to train well.’
The setback is a disaster for Farias, who knows a win is vital if his side are to have any hope of finally making an appearance in a World Cup finals.
Top playmakers
Özil Does First Gunners Photoshoot
Wednesday, September 04, 2013
Mourinho now has his own kids' cartoon and trading card game
Southampton cashed in their 25% Gareth Bale sell-on clause for just £3m
Southampton’s top brass had around 20 million fairly good reasons to feel aggrieved when Gareth Bale completed his world record transfer to Real Madrid on Monday morning.
You see, there was a time when the Saints would’ve been contractually entitled to a quarter of the £85.4million (€100.9million) that Real Madrid slung Tottenham’s way in return for Bale thanks to a 25% sell-on clause which was inserted in the Welshman’s contract when he moved from St Mary’s to Spurs in 2007 for an eventual £7million.
Unfortunately for Southampton, they allowed Spurs to buy themselves out of certain elements of Bale’s contract (including the sell-on clause) for a lump sum of somewhere between £2-3million when the club found themselves short on cash just a year later.
You see, there was a time when the Saints would’ve been contractually entitled to a quarter of the £85.4million (€100.9million) that Real Madrid slung Tottenham’s way in return for Bale thanks to a 25% sell-on clause which was inserted in the Welshman’s contract when he moved from St Mary’s to Spurs in 2007 for an eventual £7million.
Unfortunately for Southampton, they allowed Spurs to buy themselves out of certain elements of Bale’s contract (including the sell-on clause) for a lump sum of somewhere between £2-3million when the club found themselves short on cash just a year later.
Liverpool Fan Gets Misspelt Kolo Touré Tattoo
Tuesday, September 03, 2013
Spanish clinic pays Gareth Bale €10million to host his Real Madrid medical
The clinic in Spain where Gareth Bale underwent his Real Madrid medical has reportedly shelled out €10million to the club for the privilege.
Bale travelled to Madrid on Sunday evening to complete his world-record move to Real, and underwent the customary medical examination before signing the contract.
However, unlike most deals, it seems the Welshman’s medical was far from a formality, with the Sanitas clinic believed to have paid Madrid around €10m to pick them over other hospitals available.
Bale passed the tests with flying colours and was today unveiled at the Bernabeu Stadium in front of 25,000 adoring Real fans.
