Friday, January 31, 2014
Electrician takes day off work to complete deadline day transfer
A non-league footballer who works as a part time electrician has been forced to take the day off work - so he is free to complete a deadline day transfer.
Lee Gregory, who plays for Conference side Halifax Town, works as an electrical technician to support his football career, which does not pay him a full-time wage.
But while today might be a normal working day for his colleagues, Gregory has taken the day off - because he might be about to hit the big time.
Championship club Blackburn Rovers have already approached Halifax over a deal, while Notts County have been rumoured to be keen on him.
So in order to make sure he’s free to travel to his new club for a medical and to agree personal terms, Gregory has been given annual leave just for today.
Lee Gregory, who plays for Conference side Halifax Town, works as an electrical technician to support his football career, which does not pay him a full-time wage.
But while today might be a normal working day for his colleagues, Gregory has taken the day off - because he might be about to hit the big time.
Championship club Blackburn Rovers have already approached Halifax over a deal, while Notts County have been rumoured to be keen on him.
So in order to make sure he’s free to travel to his new club for a medical and to agree personal terms, Gregory has been given annual leave just for today.
Accrington Stanley transfer kitty
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Draxler shows off ball control
Spurs' aggregate humiliation is their worst for 79 years
The last time Tottenham were spanked 11-1 on aggregate over home and away fixtures by a team in the league was 79 years ago.
In the 1934/35 season, echoing their humiliating results against Manchester City, they were beaten 5-1 away to Arsenal and then 6-0 at home.
In the 1934/35 season, echoing their humiliating results against Manchester City, they were beaten 5-1 away to Arsenal and then 6-0 at home.
Spurs hit by attempted transfer fraud
Tottenham have been the victims of an attempted fraud after a Croatian middleman forged a signature to try to sell them a Dutch striker.
The fraudster contacted Spurs claiming FC Twente had authorised him to sell Holland Under-21 player Luc Castaignos.
The Croatian gave Tottenham a document supposedly signed by Twente's chairman but when they contacted the Dutch club, they discovered it was forged.
"A player has been offered with this forged document," FC Twente confirmed.
"The forgery has been made known to the KNVB (Dutch Football Federation), with the request to pass it on to Uefa and Fifa and take the appropriate measures."
Gert-Jan Nijweide, FC Twente's finance director, said: "We have recently been informed of this scam from England.
"We have sent a letter to the persons who have used the false document, ordering them to stop immediately."
The fraudster contacted Spurs claiming FC Twente had authorised him to sell Holland Under-21 player Luc Castaignos.
The Croatian gave Tottenham a document supposedly signed by Twente's chairman but when they contacted the Dutch club, they discovered it was forged.
"A player has been offered with this forged document," FC Twente confirmed.
"The forgery has been made known to the KNVB (Dutch Football Federation), with the request to pass it on to Uefa and Fifa and take the appropriate measures."
Gert-Jan Nijweide, FC Twente's finance director, said: "We have recently been informed of this scam from England.
"We have sent a letter to the persons who have used the false document, ordering them to stop immediately."
GIF : Soccer trick shot gone wrong
Santos plan to take Neymar Sr. to court
Santos president Odilio Rodrigues has said his club intend to take Neymar Sr. to court to claim a share of a 40 million euro payment he received as part of his son’s move to Barcelona last summer.
The transfer is currently under investigation by a Madrid court over the possible "diversion" of money, but Neymar Sr. defended his role this week, saying that all the money he received had been accounted for.
Neymar Sr. said he received 40 million euros in the form of a "penalty clause" payment, which was apparently owed to the Neymar family as a result of the Brazil international moving to the Camp Nou 12 months earlier than had been previously agreed.
According to figures released by Barcelona on Friday, another 11.2 million euros was paid for the marketing, scouting and development work he was hired to do
Santos, meanwhile, received a 17.1 million euro payment for the transfer fee, which the club had to share with third-party investors DIS Esporte and Teisa.
At a news conference in Sao Paulo on Wednesday, Rodrigues said he was not fully happy with the explanations the Brazilian club had been given.
The transfer is currently under investigation by a Madrid court over the possible "diversion" of money, but Neymar Sr. defended his role this week, saying that all the money he received had been accounted for.
Neymar Sr. said he received 40 million euros in the form of a "penalty clause" payment, which was apparently owed to the Neymar family as a result of the Brazil international moving to the Camp Nou 12 months earlier than had been previously agreed.
According to figures released by Barcelona on Friday, another 11.2 million euros was paid for the marketing, scouting and development work he was hired to do
Santos, meanwhile, received a 17.1 million euro payment for the transfer fee, which the club had to share with third-party investors DIS Esporte and Teisa.
At a news conference in Sao Paulo on Wednesday, Rodrigues said he was not fully happy with the explanations the Brazilian club had been given.
Merson mocks Sturridge penalty
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Barca announce new sponsor deal
Barca stars Cesc Fabregas, Gerard Pique, Neymar, Dani Alves and Andres Iniesta were decked out in denim as they launched the club's latest sponsorship deal.
Designers Replay have signed a four-year deal with the Spanish giants to provide their clothing for both formal and casual occasions.
Nocerina get thrown out for faking injuries
Italian football has hit the headlines again for all the wrong reasons after one of its club sides' was expelled due to several of their players faking injury to get a match abandoned.
The incident came in Nocerina's clash against bitter third division rivals Saletnitana in November.
Nocerina players were reluctant to take to the field after receiving death threats from their own Ultras fans who were unhappy about being banned from the game.
The fixture was delayed by 40 minutes at the start, for this reason; before the Mastini made three substitutions and had five players leave the action injured all within 21 minutes - leaving the referee no choice but to call off the game.
As well as banning the club, Italian Football Federation (FIGC) also fined the team 10,000 euros and handed lengthy bans to those players found guilty.
The incident came in Nocerina's clash against bitter third division rivals Saletnitana in November.
Nocerina players were reluctant to take to the field after receiving death threats from their own Ultras fans who were unhappy about being banned from the game.
The fixture was delayed by 40 minutes at the start, for this reason; before the Mastini made three substitutions and had five players leave the action injured all within 21 minutes - leaving the referee no choice but to call off the game.
As well as banning the club, Italian Football Federation (FIGC) also fined the team 10,000 euros and handed lengthy bans to those players found guilty.
Referee retires yellow card in Argentine friendly
GIF : Sturridge lob
How valuable Van Persie is to United
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Fixing Wenger’s zip is ‘top priority’, says Puma
ITV news confuses Juan Mata with Sir Paul McCartney
Man United share value falls another 1.6%
The value of Manchester United has continued to fall on the New York stock exchange despite the arrival of club record signing Juan Mata.
Mata will make his debut at home to Cardiff in the Barclays Premier League tonight after being signed from Chelsea for £37m over the weekend.
But nervousness among investors about United’s modest results under Moyes continues to be reflected with the share price falling by another 24 points – or 1.6 per cent - yesterday.
On May 7 last year, the day before Sir Alex Ferguson announced his retirement as manager, the market capitol of Manchester United was $3.075 billion. On closing of the market yesterday it was $2.421billion, a drop of $654 million (£394m) .
This serves to underline the importance of Mata leading some kind of recovery on the field this season as United must finish in the Champions League qualifying places if the club’s value isn’t to suffer further and directly impact on Moyes’ summer transfer capacities.
Moyes said yesterday: 'Champions League football is imperative.
'But I think players will still join Manchester United for what the club stands for, what's it's been, it's history, the players who have come through here.
'So Champions League football is very important. But in the same breath this club has got its own standing and it can carry that.'
Last week, it emerged that United had been relegated from the leading trio of the world's wealthiest football clubs after being usurped by Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
The annual list compiled by the accountancy firm Deloitte revealed that the English club had slipped into fourth place with annual revenues of £347.7m.
Mata will make his debut at home to Cardiff in the Barclays Premier League tonight after being signed from Chelsea for £37m over the weekend.
But nervousness among investors about United’s modest results under Moyes continues to be reflected with the share price falling by another 24 points – or 1.6 per cent - yesterday.
On May 7 last year, the day before Sir Alex Ferguson announced his retirement as manager, the market capitol of Manchester United was $3.075 billion. On closing of the market yesterday it was $2.421billion, a drop of $654 million (£394m) .
This serves to underline the importance of Mata leading some kind of recovery on the field this season as United must finish in the Champions League qualifying places if the club’s value isn’t to suffer further and directly impact on Moyes’ summer transfer capacities.
Moyes said yesterday: 'Champions League football is imperative.
'But I think players will still join Manchester United for what the club stands for, what's it's been, it's history, the players who have come through here.
'So Champions League football is very important. But in the same breath this club has got its own standing and it can carry that.'
Last week, it emerged that United had been relegated from the leading trio of the world's wealthiest football clubs after being usurped by Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
The annual list compiled by the accountancy firm Deloitte revealed that the English club had slipped into fourth place with annual revenues of £347.7m.
Skrtel had his head stapled
Highest scoring nations in the Premier League
Monday, January 27, 2014
Chelsea fan finds new use for Mata shirt
GIF : Darren Bent howler
World Cup odds
Real Madrid fans turn stadium into a golden shrine to CR7
Non-league captain throws punch at fan
Bale's 'genitals' are not a problem
Gareth Bale is struggling with a leg injury and will sit out Real Madrid's Copa del Rey quarter-final second leg with Espanyol on Tuesday night, coach Carlo Ancelotti has announced.
Bale has started Madrid's last three matches, but was taken off at half-time of Saturday's 2-0 league win over Granada at the Bernabeu.
Ancelotti revealed after the match that Bale had been replaced as he 'was not comfortable after getting kicked', but said it was more of a niggle than an injury and expected the world's most expensive player to be fit for Madrid's next match.
However, speaking at a press conference on Monday, Ancelotti confirmed the Wales international was still not 100 per cent and would not be involved against Espanyol, where Madrid hold a 1-0 lead from last week's first leg in Barcelona.
The Italian said: 'Bale felt discomfort in his left leg. His problem isn’t with his genitals'.
Bale has started Madrid's last three matches, but was taken off at half-time of Saturday's 2-0 league win over Granada at the Bernabeu.
Ancelotti revealed after the match that Bale had been replaced as he 'was not comfortable after getting kicked', but said it was more of a niggle than an injury and expected the world's most expensive player to be fit for Madrid's next match.
However, speaking at a press conference on Monday, Ancelotti confirmed the Wales international was still not 100 per cent and would not be involved against Espanyol, where Madrid hold a 1-0 lead from last week's first leg in Barcelona.
The Italian said: 'Bale felt discomfort in his left leg. His problem isn’t with his genitals'.
Friday, January 24, 2014
Best football fights 2013
GIF : Ronaldo dive
Chelsea fans deliver ‘expert’ opinions on players that don’t actually exist
Napoli unveil new camo kit
Man Utd lamp
Horror tackle
Thursday, January 23, 2014
GIF : scoring from behind the goal
ACL surgery for Falcao
Colombia striker Radamel Falcao will have surgery "in the next few days" to repair a torn left anterior cruciate ligament, AS Monaco confirmed Thursday.
"Following Wednesday's injury, Radamel Falcao made a diagnostic examination. It appears that the player is suffering from trauma in the left knee with lesion of ligament anterior cruciate," AS Monaco said in a statement Thursday.
"The player will have surgery in next few days. Doctors will do everything possible to speed up recovery."
The impending surgery puts Falcao's participation in the World Cup in doubt.
Falcao, 27, was carried off the pitch on a stretcher on Wednesday night following a heavy challenge by Soner Ertek in the 40th minute of Monaco's 3-0 Coupe de France win at Monts d'Or Azergues.
"Following Wednesday's injury, Radamel Falcao made a diagnostic examination. It appears that the player is suffering from trauma in the left knee with lesion of ligament anterior cruciate," AS Monaco said in a statement Thursday.
"The player will have surgery in next few days. Doctors will do everything possible to speed up recovery."
The impending surgery puts Falcao's participation in the World Cup in doubt.
Falcao, 27, was carried off the pitch on a stretcher on Wednesday night following a heavy challenge by Soner Ertek in the 40th minute of Monaco's 3-0 Coupe de France win at Monts d'Or Azergues.
GIF : De Gea’s howler
City continue global expansion
Manchester City have bought Melbourne Heart, who site at the foot of the Australian A-League and boast former Liverpool flop Harry Kewell as their star player.
This purchase follows the establishment of New York City FC in the US, a club formed in conjunction with the New York Yankees. They will play in the MLS in 2015.
They have not shown much heart this season, however, winning just one of their 15 league matches.
They also have the longest winless run in the A-League this season (14) and the longest losing run (five). Indeed, their first victory only came last Friday, 3-1 against the Newcastle Jets with Mate Dugandzic scoring twice.
This may be a reason why their average attendance is 10,000 in a stadium that holds 30,050.
This purchase follows the establishment of New York City FC in the US, a club formed in conjunction with the New York Yankees. They will play in the MLS in 2015.
They have not shown much heart this season, however, winning just one of their 15 league matches.
They also have the longest winless run in the A-League this season (14) and the longest losing run (five). Indeed, their first victory only came last Friday, 3-1 against the Newcastle Jets with Mate Dugandzic scoring twice.
This may be a reason why their average attendance is 10,000 in a stadium that holds 30,050.
Man calls 999 to demand chat with Sir Alex
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Uruguayan 'friendly' ends in brawl
Freestyle in high heels
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Barca remain silent on Neymar fee
Barcelona president Sandro Rosell says he would love to publicly reveal the exact details of Neymar’s transfer from Santos, but maintains that a confidentiality agreement stops him doing so.
A continuing court investigation in Madrid is looking into last summer’s complex deal, in which Barca say they paid 57 million euros but El Mundo claims a total of 95 million euros changed hands.
A news conference on Monday evening, which was organised to announce Barca’s plans to extend the Camp Nou, was dominated by the Neymar controversy, with Rosell again insisting that only 57 million euros had been paid and that he was willing to testify to that in court.
A continuing court investigation in Madrid is looking into last summer’s complex deal, in which Barca say they paid 57 million euros but El Mundo claims a total of 95 million euros changed hands.
A news conference on Monday evening, which was organised to announce Barca’s plans to extend the Camp Nou, was dominated by the Neymar controversy, with Rosell again insisting that only 57 million euros had been paid and that he was willing to testify to that in court.
Medel takes train home after missing team bus
After his side was beaten 4-2 by Manchester City on Saturday, Cardiff City midfielder Gary Medel reportedly missed the team bus and traveled home on the train with the Bluebirds fans who had made the trip to the Etihad.
Several astonished Cardiff fans posted photos with Medel, who sat in economy class and mingled with his adoring public all the way back to Wales.
World Cup babes
The hard lives of footballers
GIF : Ronaldo gets felt up
Ardiles suffers head injury after swerving to avoid a sheep
Former Tottenham star Ossie Ardiles had to have more than 20 stitches in his head after he was involved in a car accident in the Falkland Islands.
The ex-Argentina international is in the Islands with his former Spurs team-mate Ricky Villa filming an ESPN documentary about the impact the 1982 Falklands conflict had on their football careers.
Ardiles, 61, is believed to have been driving the rented 4x4 vehicle when it left the gravel road between the British military base at Mount Pleasant and Darwin settlement, on East Falkland at around 9pm local time.
A source said: "The accident happened near Darwin. They had been out for the day and were heading back to Stanley when they swerved to avoid a sheep and crashed."
As well as Ardiles and Villa, five other people are believed to have been in the vehicle, including Ardiles' British born son, who is working with the ESPN production team.
Local emergency services were scrambled and the injured were flown by military helicopter from the accident site to the King Edward VII Memorial hospital in Stanley.
The ex-Argentina international is in the Islands with his former Spurs team-mate Ricky Villa filming an ESPN documentary about the impact the 1982 Falklands conflict had on their football careers.
Ardiles, 61, is believed to have been driving the rented 4x4 vehicle when it left the gravel road between the British military base at Mount Pleasant and Darwin settlement, on East Falkland at around 9pm local time.
A source said: "The accident happened near Darwin. They had been out for the day and were heading back to Stanley when they swerved to avoid a sheep and crashed."
As well as Ardiles and Villa, five other people are believed to have been in the vehicle, including Ardiles' British born son, who is working with the ESPN production team.
Local emergency services were scrambled and the injured were flown by military helicopter from the accident site to the King Edward VII Memorial hospital in Stanley.
Everton fans ‘Stuck With Moyes, Man Utd’ chant
Swansea star grabs brick in training-ground row
Police were called to Swansea City’s training ground after defender Chico Flores allegedly picked up a brick in a furious row with team-mate Garry Monk.
The incident happened on Friday when an altercation on the pitch between the two players escalated dramatically.
A member of the public, believed to be the mother of a youth-team player, phoned police after claiming to have spotted a screaming Flores brandishing the brick.
Officers took no action against the volatile Spaniard, leaving the matter in the club’s hands.
A statement from South Wales Police confirmed: ‘Police were called to the training ground at around 1.30pm on Friday 17 January. Club officials were spoken to and no police action was required.’
A Swansea spokesperson said: ‘Chico Flores and Garry Monk had an exchange of words, which is not uncommon between players in training grounds across the country, but no threats or altercations took place between the players in question.
‘It’s understood a member of the public phoned the police, who felt no action was required. The matter has been dealt with and is concluded.’
The incident happened on Friday when an altercation on the pitch between the two players escalated dramatically.
A member of the public, believed to be the mother of a youth-team player, phoned police after claiming to have spotted a screaming Flores brandishing the brick.
Officers took no action against the volatile Spaniard, leaving the matter in the club’s hands.
A statement from South Wales Police confirmed: ‘Police were called to the training ground at around 1.30pm on Friday 17 January. Club officials were spoken to and no police action was required.’
A Swansea spokesperson said: ‘Chico Flores and Garry Monk had an exchange of words, which is not uncommon between players in training grounds across the country, but no threats or altercations took place between the players in question.
‘It’s understood a member of the public phoned the police, who felt no action was required. The matter has been dealt with and is concluded.’
Cazorla says sorry to rivals after being pictured with abusive message
Santi Cazorla has apologised to Tottenham supporters after he was pictured appearing to mock Arsenal's arch rivals alongside club legend Robert Pires.
The duo, who were appearing on French TV on Sunday night, were snapped with a female fan of Arsene Wenger's side holding a piece of paper containing the terrace song: 'What do we think of Tottenham? S***! What do we think of s***? Tottenham!'
The unnamed supporter then posted the image to social networking site Twitter.
It has since been retweeted more than 1,400 times.
Cazorla took to social media on Monday afternoon to apologise to Spurs fans.
'Our apoligizes to the Totenham fans, we couldn't see the paper. #alwaysfootballalwaysrespect,' the midfielder tweeted.
Orange cards proposed by Fifa candidate
Fifa presidential candidate Jerome Champagne has suggested introducing orange cards that would allow referees to send players to a sin-bin.
The Frenchman, 55, launched his bid to succeed Sepp Blatter as the world governing body's president on Monday.
He also wants to punish teams when players question officials and hopes football will consider using more technology for key decisions.
Fifa's presidential election will be held in Zurich in June 2015.
The Frenchman, 55, launched his bid to succeed Sepp Blatter as the world governing body's president on Monday.
He also wants to punish teams when players question officials and hopes football will consider using more technology for key decisions.
Fifa's presidential election will be held in Zurich in June 2015.
Messi passes to teammate waiting to come on as substitute
GIF : Suarez dive
Monday, January 20, 2014
Irate Sunderland fan swearing on TV
South Africa prepare to drop their Bafana Bafana nickname
South Africa are considering getting rid of their Bafana Bafana nickname.
"We must consider changing the name and we have to review the preparations, the philosophy and technical staff of the team," Danny Jordaan, the South African Football Association president, said.
The popular nickname, a Zulu expression that closely translates as "The Lads", has been used since South Africa's return to the international arena in 1992 after decades of apartheid.
But Jordaan, speaking after the country were knocked out of the African Nations Championship tournament on home soil, indicated that they were looking for a change of image.
The Bafana Bafana nickname earned worldwide renown when South Africa hosted the 2010 World Cup but the SAFA have been keen to change it for a while because they lost out on millions in marketing income from the name.
The association did not initially register the nickname and when they finally sought to profit from the trademark found a local entrepreneur had beaten them to it. A court battle ensued, which the SAFA lost, although a later agreement saw a share of the commercial income.
"We must consider changing the name and we have to review the preparations, the philosophy and technical staff of the team," Danny Jordaan, the South African Football Association president, said.
The popular nickname, a Zulu expression that closely translates as "The Lads", has been used since South Africa's return to the international arena in 1992 after decades of apartheid.
But Jordaan, speaking after the country were knocked out of the African Nations Championship tournament on home soil, indicated that they were looking for a change of image.
The Bafana Bafana nickname earned worldwide renown when South Africa hosted the 2010 World Cup but the SAFA have been keen to change it for a while because they lost out on millions in marketing income from the name.
The association did not initially register the nickname and when they finally sought to profit from the trademark found a local entrepreneur had beaten them to it. A court battle ensued, which the SAFA lost, although a later agreement saw a share of the commercial income.
Mozambique goal
Ribery slams Ronaldo's Ballon d'Or award
Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery has blasted the voting system for the FIFA Ballon d'Or and claimed that he was more deserving of the award than winner Cristiano Ronaldo because he won five trophies in 2013, while the Real Madrid star did not win any.
The Frenchman appeared to accept coming third behind winner Ronaldo and second-placed Lionel Messi at the award ceremony in Zurich last Monday, even claiming that individual awards were not important to him.
'I won everything I could win with Bayern and individually. Ronaldo, on the other hand, did not win anything. I am not sad that I missed out, but it does hurt a bit. I deserved to win the Ballon d'Or'
Ribery claimed the Bundesliga title, the German cup, the Champions League, the European Super Cup and Club World Cup with Bayern during 2013.
The France star even appeared to suggest changes were made in this year's voting system to help Ronaldo's cause, by extending the deadline at the same time the Portugal star had almost single-handedly seen off Sweden in a World Cup play-off.
'It was clear that Ronaldo would win it. The voting deadline was extended by two weeks. This had never happened before. It wasn't about football. It was a political decision.'
His frustrations didn't end there as he also criticised the FIFPro World XI - FIFA's team of the year - for only having three Bundesliga stars in it, despite the 2013 Champions League final being contested by Bayern and Borussia Dortmund.
'There are only three Bayern players in there. That's madness. [Thomas] Muller deserves to be there, and so do [David] Alaba, [Bastian] Schweinsteiger and [Arjen] Robben.
'We won five titles and made history. And then there's the absence of Borussia Dortmund players. Where are [Mario] Gotze and [Robert] Lewandowski? This is impossible.'
The Frenchman appeared to accept coming third behind winner Ronaldo and second-placed Lionel Messi at the award ceremony in Zurich last Monday, even claiming that individual awards were not important to him.
'I won everything I could win with Bayern and individually. Ronaldo, on the other hand, did not win anything. I am not sad that I missed out, but it does hurt a bit. I deserved to win the Ballon d'Or'
Ribery claimed the Bundesliga title, the German cup, the Champions League, the European Super Cup and Club World Cup with Bayern during 2013.
The France star even appeared to suggest changes were made in this year's voting system to help Ronaldo's cause, by extending the deadline at the same time the Portugal star had almost single-handedly seen off Sweden in a World Cup play-off.
'It was clear that Ronaldo would win it. The voting deadline was extended by two weeks. This had never happened before. It wasn't about football. It was a political decision.'
His frustrations didn't end there as he also criticised the FIFPro World XI - FIFA's team of the year - for only having three Bundesliga stars in it, despite the 2013 Champions League final being contested by Bayern and Borussia Dortmund.
'There are only three Bayern players in there. That's madness. [Thomas] Muller deserves to be there, and so do [David] Alaba, [Bastian] Schweinsteiger and [Arjen] Robben.
'We won five titles and made history. And then there's the absence of Borussia Dortmund players. Where are [Mario] Gotze and [Robert] Lewandowski? This is impossible.'
Terry translates for Eto'o
Emergency Fergie
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Hazard awarded ‘Ballon Wood’ by Chelsea team-mates
Barcelona plan to create mausoleum
Barcelona have created a mausoleum so fans who wish "to be bound forever to FCB" can pay to have their earthly remains stored for eternity (or the first 99 years of eternity, at least) by their beloved club.
Initially there will be space prepared for 500 urns at the cemetery of Les Corts in the city of Barcelona, though the long-term plan is to incorporate a large, specially-designated mausoleum with space for 30,000 urns and commemorative ceramic plaques underneath the Camp Nou once it is modernised or into the design of a new stadium should Barca eventually decide to pursue that option instead.
Barcelona’s director of facilities, Josep Ramon Vidal-Abarca said: "This is in response to the historical demand from members who want their remains laid to rest at the stadium."
According to the ‘Memorial Space FC Barcelona’ project, prices range from €3,000 (approx. £2,480) all the way up to €6,000 (approx. £4,960) to buy a space for between 50 and 99 years.
Initially there will be space prepared for 500 urns at the cemetery of Les Corts in the city of Barcelona, though the long-term plan is to incorporate a large, specially-designated mausoleum with space for 30,000 urns and commemorative ceramic plaques underneath the Camp Nou once it is modernised or into the design of a new stadium should Barca eventually decide to pursue that option instead.
Barcelona’s director of facilities, Josep Ramon Vidal-Abarca said: "This is in response to the historical demand from members who want their remains laid to rest at the stadium."
According to the ‘Memorial Space FC Barcelona’ project, prices range from €3,000 (approx. £2,480) all the way up to €6,000 (approx. £4,960) to buy a space for between 50 and 99 years.
GIF : Ronaldo scores long-ranger vs Real Betis
Roddy Doyle to ghost write Roy Keane’s memoir
Doyle said:
"Ten years ago I was buying something in a shop in New York and I handed my credit card to the young African man behind the counter.
"He read ‘Bank of Ireland’ on the card, looked at me and said: ‘Ireland - Roy Keane.’ I’m delighted to be writing this book with Roy."
"Ten years ago I was buying something in a shop in New York and I handed my credit card to the young African man behind the counter.
"He read ‘Bank of Ireland’ on the card, looked at me and said: ‘Ireland - Roy Keane.’ I’m delighted to be writing this book with Roy."
Lineker advert
Moyes record away against Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool
Friday, January 17, 2014
Rangers squad rejects 15% pay cut
Rangers players have been left reeling after being asked to take a 15-per-cent pay cut - but the Ibrox stars will not even contemplate any agreement unless the stricken club’s directors reduce their wages first.
The squad attended a lunchtime meeting at Murray Park yesterday at which skipper Lee McCulloch, accompanied by manager Ally McCoist, outlined the proposal from chief executive Graham Wallace.
Wallace is poised to implement swingeing cuts on behalf of the board after the club racked up a £14.4million loss in the last financial year.
The squad attended a lunchtime meeting at Murray Park yesterday at which skipper Lee McCulloch, accompanied by manager Ally McCoist, outlined the proposal from chief executive Graham Wallace.
Wallace is poised to implement swingeing cuts on behalf of the board after the club racked up a £14.4million loss in the last financial year.
Getafe defender taken off with broken veins in testicle
Getafe defender Alexis Ruano was forced off during Barcelona’s 2-0 Copa del Rey victory after an injury left him with broken veins in his testicle.
The 28-year-old was taken away on a stretcher in the 36th minute, leaving manager Luis Garcia to elaborate after the final whistle.
‘Alexis has a testicle like this,’ he told reporters while gesturing the size of a handball with his hands.
‘Some veins were broken. When I entered the changing room, I was scared, but it's not serious.
‘I've never seen anything like it.’
The 28-year-old was taken away on a stretcher in the 36th minute, leaving manager Luis Garcia to elaborate after the final whistle.
‘Alexis has a testicle like this,’ he told reporters while gesturing the size of a handball with his hands.
‘Some veins were broken. When I entered the changing room, I was scared, but it's not serious.
‘I've never seen anything like it.’
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Every player has a song on Man Utd’s democratic pre-match playlist
Each member of Manchester United’s squad has a favourite song on the team’s pre-match music playlist, striker Robin Van Persie has revealed.
The pre-game tunes were compiled by Patrice Evra, who asked each of United’s 25-man squad to nominate a favourite track.
Speaking at the Pepsi 2014 football campaign launch, Van Persie said: "Patrice Evra asked a group of more than 25 players what everyone’s favourite songs were, so now all those songs are in a playlist for before the game.
"He puts it on and every so often your favourite song comes on. I think it’s a great because sometimes you have Brazilian music, then Daft Punk, Get Lucky ... all kinds of songs."
Van Persie says he needs something with a good beat to get him ready for games.
He said: "I don’t have one particular song that I have to listen to before the game, just whatever comes on but I don’t like music that is too slow.
"I prefer a good beat so I can get pumped up for a game."
The pre-game tunes were compiled by Patrice Evra, who asked each of United’s 25-man squad to nominate a favourite track.
Speaking at the Pepsi 2014 football campaign launch, Van Persie said: "Patrice Evra asked a group of more than 25 players what everyone’s favourite songs were, so now all those songs are in a playlist for before the game.
"He puts it on and every so often your favourite song comes on. I think it’s a great because sometimes you have Brazilian music, then Daft Punk, Get Lucky ... all kinds of songs."
Van Persie says he needs something with a good beat to get him ready for games.
He said: "I don’t have one particular song that I have to listen to before the game, just whatever comes on but I don’t like music that is too slow.
"I prefer a good beat so I can get pumped up for a game."
Birmingham ‘steal’ Aston Villa’s honours in club diary
Americans answer questions about football
Stoke fine Kenwyne Jones £80,000
Stoke City have reportedly fined Kenwyne Jones a hefty £80,000 after the striker texted manager Mark Hughes to let him know he was unavailable to play against Liverpool last Sunday.
Stoke were unsure as to whether Jones would carry through his no-show threat, but the forward duly failed to attend the team’s pre-match meal at their Clayton Wood training ground.
Unsurprisingly, Hughes was livid at Jones’ conduct and immediately saw that the Trinidad & Tobago forward was fined two weeks’ wages (which, depressingly enough, equates to roughly £80,000), and his only comment to media enquiries after Stoke’s 5-3 defeat was that Jones had been ‘unavailable’.
Stoke were unsure as to whether Jones would carry through his no-show threat, but the forward duly failed to attend the team’s pre-match meal at their Clayton Wood training ground.
Unsurprisingly, Hughes was livid at Jones’ conduct and immediately saw that the Trinidad & Tobago forward was fined two weeks’ wages (which, depressingly enough, equates to roughly £80,000), and his only comment to media enquiries after Stoke’s 5-3 defeat was that Jones had been ‘unavailable’.
Not offside
Joe Kinnear delivers another pearl of wisdom in Newcastle match program
"(We want) to recruit players whose futures are ahead of them, not behind."
Liverpool unveil deal with Dunkin' Donuts
Liverpool have announced a multi-year partnership with Dunkin' Brands Group - the American company behind Dunkin' Donuts and ice-cream chain Baskin-Robbins.
Dunkin Donuts, who also have a tie-up with Kop owner John W Henry's Boston Red Sox, have only one store in the UK - in Harrow - but intend to open two more .
Liverpool's chief executive Ian Ayre believes the club's fans should take comfort in the new partnership which will see Dunkin' Donuts become Liverpool's official coffee, tea and bakery provider.
Gazza’s Italian diaries
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
GIF : Worst flop ever
Chile vs Netherlands beer commercial
Ivanovic gets his revenge
A late entry for goal of the year
Top five tallest players in the Premier League
1. Lacina Traore (West Ham, 6ft 8in)
2. Costal Pantilimon (Manchester City, 6ft 8in)
3. Peter Crouch (Stoke City, 6ft 7in)
4. Brede Hangeland (Fulham, 6ft 6 1/2 in)
5. Per Mertesacker (Arsenal, 6ft 6in)
2. Costal Pantilimon (Manchester City, 6ft 8in)
3. Peter Crouch (Stoke City, 6ft 7in)
4. Brede Hangeland (Fulham, 6ft 6 1/2 in)
5. Per Mertesacker (Arsenal, 6ft 6in)
PSG take three fans to away game
Al-Ahli boss goes mad at press officer during conference
Hyde get first win
There will be few happier fans in football tonight than those of Hyde FC, who have seen their side win a league match for the first time in 30 attempts.
The Conference Premier side unsurprisingly sit rock bottom with just seven points to show for their campaign - a staggering 18 points off safety with just over half of the season played.
Hyde have not won a league fixture since April 9, when they grabbed a 1-0 win against Ebbsfleet.
And it appears Kent sides are their perfect opponents, breaking their duck with a 2-0 victory over Welling United tonight, with strikes from Louis Almond and Connor Hughes giving them a much needed three points.
The Conference Premier side unsurprisingly sit rock bottom with just seven points to show for their campaign - a staggering 18 points off safety with just over half of the season played.
Hyde have not won a league fixture since April 9, when they grabbed a 1-0 win against Ebbsfleet.
And it appears Kent sides are their perfect opponents, breaking their duck with a 2-0 victory over Welling United tonight, with strikes from Louis Almond and Connor Hughes giving them a much needed three points.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Ibrahimovic tells tell Dortmund boss: 'I'll play for you for free!'
Frimpong mocks Bendtner with fake Ballon D’Or
Ballon d'Or: Ibrahimovic greets Xavi with a cheeky slap
Allam will walk out on Hull 'within 24 hours' if he is not allowed to change name
Hull City owner Assem Allam has vowed to walk away from the club if the Football Association refuses to ratify his application to change the club's name.
Allam has launched a controversial bid to re-brand the club as Hull Tigers - a move which has brought protests from supporters.
And on the day the club were expected to shatter their transfer record with a swoop for Everton striker Nikica Jelavic and West Brom's Shane Long, Allam has warned he will be gone 'within 24 hours' if his move does not receive widespread backing.
Allam told Sky Sports News: 'No one on earth is allowed to question my business decisions. I won't allow it. I can give you my CV to give you comfort, for what I do in business, what I have achieved, but for someone to come and question me is not allowed.
'I'm here to save the club and manage the club for the benefit of the community. It will never, never be the other way round - that the community manage it for me.
'But if the community say go away, I promise to go away with 24 hours.'
Assam added that the same applied should his move to have the club's name changed be rejected by the FA.
He said: 'Still the same thing. It's a free country. No two ways about it. Have I ever said something and went back on it? No.'
Assam caused controversy in November when he reacted angrily to lobbying from campaign group City Till We Die by saying: 'They can die as soon as they want.'
The Egyptian businessman, who has lived in Hull for over 40 years, had previously branded the word "City" 'lousy" and 'common', and said re-branding the club would make them more marketable.
Allam has launched a controversial bid to re-brand the club as Hull Tigers - a move which has brought protests from supporters.
And on the day the club were expected to shatter their transfer record with a swoop for Everton striker Nikica Jelavic and West Brom's Shane Long, Allam has warned he will be gone 'within 24 hours' if his move does not receive widespread backing.
Allam told Sky Sports News: 'No one on earth is allowed to question my business decisions. I won't allow it. I can give you my CV to give you comfort, for what I do in business, what I have achieved, but for someone to come and question me is not allowed.
'I'm here to save the club and manage the club for the benefit of the community. It will never, never be the other way round - that the community manage it for me.
'But if the community say go away, I promise to go away with 24 hours.'
Assam added that the same applied should his move to have the club's name changed be rejected by the FA.
He said: 'Still the same thing. It's a free country. No two ways about it. Have I ever said something and went back on it? No.'
Assam caused controversy in November when he reacted angrily to lobbying from campaign group City Till We Die by saying: 'They can die as soon as they want.'
The Egyptian businessman, who has lived in Hull for over 40 years, had previously branded the word "City" 'lousy" and 'common', and said re-branding the club would make them more marketable.
Winter World Cup in Qatar could make the FA Cup a midweek competition
FA Cup replays could face the chop as part of a radical rethink of English football to cater for a winter World Cup in 2022.
FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke has given the clearest signal yet that the Qatar-hosted tournament will be moved from the traditional summer to the last six weeks of the year on safety grounds.
And that will pave the way for a winter break in England for the first time - but only if there are significant changes to the current domestic calendar.
Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore, a vehement opponent of a winter World Cup, has steadfastly stuck to his position that a January break is not good for the English game.
But Scudamore would be willing to consider the idea if the FA gave up some of its weekend dates to clear room for a two-week battery-recharging window.
Submissions to FA chairman Greg Dyke's commission closed last week but among the possibilities mooted were for the end of FA Cup replays, for third round ties to be clubs' last game before a winter break and for all the competition's subsequent rounds - until the semi-final stage - to be played mid-week rather than at weekends.
The Premier League would also like to see the Capital One Cup's semi-finals become one-offs, rather than the current two-legged affairs, as part of a bargaining process.
At this stage, there are no concrete proposals, but the growing reality of a World Cup being played from mid-November to just before Christmas in 2022 is now focusing minds on the need for change.
FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke has given the clearest signal yet that the Qatar-hosted tournament will be moved from the traditional summer to the last six weeks of the year on safety grounds.
And that will pave the way for a winter break in England for the first time - but only if there are significant changes to the current domestic calendar.
Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore, a vehement opponent of a winter World Cup, has steadfastly stuck to his position that a January break is not good for the English game.
But Scudamore would be willing to consider the idea if the FA gave up some of its weekend dates to clear room for a two-week battery-recharging window.
Submissions to FA chairman Greg Dyke's commission closed last week but among the possibilities mooted were for the end of FA Cup replays, for third round ties to be clubs' last game before a winter break and for all the competition's subsequent rounds - until the semi-final stage - to be played mid-week rather than at weekends.
The Premier League would also like to see the Capital One Cup's semi-finals become one-offs, rather than the current two-legged affairs, as part of a bargaining process.
At this stage, there are no concrete proposals, but the growing reality of a World Cup being played from mid-November to just before Christmas in 2022 is now focusing minds on the need for change.
Leeds defender Jason Pearce forgets to remove price tag from shirt
Stoke keeper sends Twitter plea track down his stolen car
Stoke keeper Jack Butland has appealed to his Twitter followers for help tracking down his stolen car.
Butland's Sepang blue Audi RS5, which retails for around £59,000, was taken on Sunday and the 20-year-old has offered a reward to anyone who can help recover the vehicle.
The England hopeful posted on his Twitter account: 'Guys my car was stolen yesterday, and would appreciate it if you guys could potentially help me! Financial reward will be given to anyone...(cont).
'(cont) That find it! AUDI RS5, BLUE, SILVER TRIM AND MIRRORS, REG BJ62 UOK! Please keep an eye out and inform me if you find anything! Thank you!'
Butland has been capped once by England and has made three starts for Stoke this year after a loan spell with Championship side Barnsley.
Butland's Sepang blue Audi RS5, which retails for around £59,000, was taken on Sunday and the 20-year-old has offered a reward to anyone who can help recover the vehicle.
The England hopeful posted on his Twitter account: 'Guys my car was stolen yesterday, and would appreciate it if you guys could potentially help me! Financial reward will be given to anyone...(cont).
'(cont) That find it! AUDI RS5, BLUE, SILVER TRIM AND MIRRORS, REG BJ62 UOK! Please keep an eye out and inform me if you find anything! Thank you!'
Butland has been capped once by England and has made three starts for Stoke this year after a loan spell with Championship side Barnsley.
Most Premier League penalties awarded
Benfica players wear Eusebio’s name
GIF : Tiote disallowed goal
Ballon d'Or voting
Nathan Baker knocked unconcious by shot
Scottish club offer fans ‘pay what you can’ ticket deal
Albion Rovers, a Scottish League Two side situated ten miles outside Glasgow, have adopted a new ticket pricing strategy for their home match against Montrose on Saturday.
Fans will be able to watch for a minimum of £1, but will be encouraged to pay exactly what they believe Scottish fourth tier football is worth to them.
Fans will be able to watch for a minimum of £1, but will be encouraged to pay exactly what they believe Scottish fourth tier football is worth to them.
GIF : Rooney nutmegs the ref
Takeaway offers Man Utd calzone
GIF : Puncheon penalty
Suarez scoring rate
Monday, January 13, 2014
Fifa world team of the year
Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)
Dani Alves (Barcelona)
Thiago Silva (PSG)
Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)
Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich)
Andres Iniesta (Barcelona)
Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich)
Xavi (Barcelona)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG)
Lionel Messi (Barcelona)
Dani Alves (Barcelona)
Thiago Silva (PSG)
Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)
Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich)
Andres Iniesta (Barcelona)
Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich)
Xavi (Barcelona)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG)
Lionel Messi (Barcelona)
Man United's share price drops by £250M in four weeks
Manchester United's tumultuous season has taken another nosedive with news the club's value has plummeted by a quarter of a billions pounds in the last four weeks.
As string of woeful results - including three defeats in a week for the first time since 1992 - have taken their toll on the business as David Moyes struggles to maintain United title's defence.
The Glazer family took control at Old Trafford in 2005 and have saddled the club with huge amounts of debt to finance the purchase. In the last five years they have paid £400million in interest alone.
And the recent string of poor results means the share price has dropped by £250m to £1.5billion.
United could withstand the one-off loss of the £29m they received from UEFA for last season's campaign in the Champions League, but a prolonged absence would have serious knock-on effects.
Not least of the problems would be the threat to deals such as its retail partnership with sportswear group Nike, which pays United a minimum of £25m a year for the sale of two million replica shirts around the globe.
Those sales helped to earn United an additional £12.8m from the agreement last year.
And though Nike is expected to renew its deal in the next few months, the team's recent decline could weaken the club's bargaining position.
As string of woeful results - including three defeats in a week for the first time since 1992 - have taken their toll on the business as David Moyes struggles to maintain United title's defence.
The Glazer family took control at Old Trafford in 2005 and have saddled the club with huge amounts of debt to finance the purchase. In the last five years they have paid £400million in interest alone.
And the recent string of poor results means the share price has dropped by £250m to £1.5billion.
United could withstand the one-off loss of the £29m they received from UEFA for last season's campaign in the Champions League, but a prolonged absence would have serious knock-on effects.
Not least of the problems would be the threat to deals such as its retail partnership with sportswear group Nike, which pays United a minimum of £25m a year for the sale of two million replica shirts around the globe.
Those sales helped to earn United an additional £12.8m from the agreement last year.
And though Nike is expected to renew its deal in the next few months, the team's recent decline could weaken the club's bargaining position.
Januzaj blow for England
The international future of Adnan Januzaj took a potentially significant step with the announcement by FIFA that Kosovo has been granted permission to form a national team.
England have explored the possibility of recruiting the precocious 18-year-old for Roy Hodgson's side once he has completed five years of residency but it is believed Kosovo, where Januzaj's father Abedin was born, would be his preference.
The stumbling block to that choice has been FIFA's reluctance to recognise Kosovo for international competition - but Sepp Blatter confirmed friendlies could now be arranged with the country.
It is left to be seen which nation Januzaj will commit to ultimately, but the FA are likely to find the development as a hindrance in their bid to persuade the Manchester United midfielder that he should wear the England shirt.
Januzaj, who has been one of David Moyes's most prominent performers all season, has said he is determined to 'make Kosovo proud' while his father has seemingly ruled out the viable options of Belgium, Albania and Turkey.
A campaign to install Kosovo as a country in the eyes of FIFA has been going since 2012 and last week Blatter met with Fadil Vokrri, president of the Kosovan football association.
The world governing body's emergency committee today granted that wish.
England have explored the possibility of recruiting the precocious 18-year-old for Roy Hodgson's side once he has completed five years of residency but it is believed Kosovo, where Januzaj's father Abedin was born, would be his preference.
The stumbling block to that choice has been FIFA's reluctance to recognise Kosovo for international competition - but Sepp Blatter confirmed friendlies could now be arranged with the country.
It is left to be seen which nation Januzaj will commit to ultimately, but the FA are likely to find the development as a hindrance in their bid to persuade the Manchester United midfielder that he should wear the England shirt.
Januzaj, who has been one of David Moyes's most prominent performers all season, has said he is determined to 'make Kosovo proud' while his father has seemingly ruled out the viable options of Belgium, Albania and Turkey.
A campaign to install Kosovo as a country in the eyes of FIFA has been going since 2012 and last week Blatter met with Fadil Vokrri, president of the Kosovan football association.
The world governing body's emergency committee today granted that wish.
Friday, January 10, 2014
Players gather for Lucas birthday
Chilean team accused of ‘fomenting terrorism’
A Chilean team originally founded by Palestinian immigrants back in 1920 have been accused of "fomenting terrorist intent" after choosing to swap all the number 1 digits on the back of their strip with silhouettes of the former Palestinian map before the disputed territory became Israeli land.
Deportivo Palestino have been called out by Chile’s Jewish contingent over their choice of numbering, with the JTA reporting that the president of the Chilean Jewish community, Gerardo Gorodischer, is demanding an apology from the club and has also asked the Chilean FA to ban the shirts, while the Simon Wiesenthal Center (a global Jewish human rights organisation) have also contacted the Chilean FA in an open letter to demand that Deportivo Palestino are punished for what they call "fomenting terrorist intent".
"We know that FIFA prohibits such actions," Gorodischer told reporters. "You cannot make a political claim and import the Middle East conflict using the platform of football, using the sport to lie and hate."
The Palestinian Federation of Chile have already responded to the Jewish outcry, releasing a statement which read: "We reject the hypocrisy of those who blame this map but they talk about the occupied territory as disputed territory."
Ronaldo training
‘Huddlefro’ hair sells on Ebay
Guardiola goes ballistic during training drill
FIFA officially rule out Qatar 2022 World Cup being played in Summer
FIFA have decreed that they’d prefer the pesky old 2022 Qatar World Cup to not be played in the sweltering, 35-45°c Gulf emirate summertime but rather in the altogether more clement 25-30ºc Gulf emirate ‘winter’, after general secretary Jerome Valcke provisionally confirmed today that the tournament will be held between November and January.
"The dates of the World Cup will not be in June or July. I think it will be played between November 15 and January 15 the latest," Valcke told France Inter Radio.
"If you play between November 15 and, let’s say, the end of December, it’s the time when the weather is the most favourable.
"You play with a temperature equivalent to that of a rather hot spring in Europe, you play with a temperature of 25ºc, which is perfect to play football."
"The dates of the World Cup will not be in June or July. I think it will be played between November 15 and January 15 the latest," Valcke told France Inter Radio.
"If you play between November 15 and, let’s say, the end of December, it’s the time when the weather is the most favourable.
"You play with a temperature equivalent to that of a rather hot spring in Europe, you play with a temperature of 25ºc, which is perfect to play football."
Sampdoria fans get ridiculous amount of police protection away at Roma
GIF: Spanish referee trips
FC Barcelona v Real Madrid from the inside
West Ham fan offers ticket for sale
Thursday, January 09, 2014
Ozil wins Germany player of the year award
Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil has been named Germany's national player of the year following a fans' poll conducted by the German Football Federation.
The award is the 25-year-old's third in succession as he finished with more than 30 per cent of the votes, ahead of Bayern Munich pair Phillip Lahm and Thomas Muller.
He said: "This award makes me proud and happy.
"Above all, because (the vote) was carried out by the fans."
The award is the 25-year-old's third in succession as he finished with more than 30 per cent of the votes, ahead of Bayern Munich pair Phillip Lahm and Thomas Muller.
He said: "This award makes me proud and happy.
"Above all, because (the vote) was carried out by the fans."
Team trades star player for hotel accommodations
The Fort Lauderdale Strikers executed a trade that sent Walter Restrepo to the San Antonio Scorpions in exchange for hotel and transportation arrangements during the club’s trip to the Lone Star State for a game this coming June.
The Crockett Hotel, a business partner of the Scorpions, would otherwise charge $169 per night during the days in question to put two men to a room.
Take that times a dozen, to account for at least 24 members of the organization - players, coaches, medical staff, etc. - and it comes out to $2,028 per night, which brings the total value of the lodging portion of the trade to $4,056.
The Crockett Hotel, a business partner of the Scorpions, would otherwise charge $169 per night during the days in question to put two men to a room.
Take that times a dozen, to account for at least 24 members of the organization - players, coaches, medical staff, etc. - and it comes out to $2,028 per night, which brings the total value of the lodging portion of the trade to $4,056.
Racing fans attack club president
Wednesday, January 08, 2014
AFC Wimbledon ask fans to allow new signings to live at their house
Most clubs are looking to add to their squad during the January transfer window - and League Two outfit AFC Wimbledon are no different.
But Neal Ardley’s side need a little help to bring in new signings, with the club asking fans to provide homes for players they get on loan.
Wimbledon operate with one of the smallest budgets in league football, and finding accommodation for their stars is another expense they can’t afford.
So the club have asked supporters on their official website to step forward - and provide a loan player with a bed for a few weeks.
‘If you have a spare room in your family home and live a reasonable distance from AFC Wimbledon, based in Kingston upon Thames, then we would like to hear from you,’ read a club statement.
And there’s immediate need for space with Wimbledon bringing striker Charlie Wyke in from Middlesbrough in the last few days.
But Neal Ardley’s side need a little help to bring in new signings, with the club asking fans to provide homes for players they get on loan.
Wimbledon operate with one of the smallest budgets in league football, and finding accommodation for their stars is another expense they can’t afford.
So the club have asked supporters on their official website to step forward - and provide a loan player with a bed for a few weeks.
‘If you have a spare room in your family home and live a reasonable distance from AFC Wimbledon, based in Kingston upon Thames, then we would like to hear from you,’ read a club statement.
And there’s immediate need for space with Wimbledon bringing striker Charlie Wyke in from Middlesbrough in the last few days.
Bournemouth fans raise money for Burton faithful’s FA Cup trip
The spirit of the FA Cup is alive and well in Bournemouth - whose fans are raising money for Burton’s faithful to travel to the south coast.
In a brilliant display of generosity, Cherries fans have raised more than £2,800 for Albion supporters’ coaches to bring fans south next Tuesday, January 14 after the original fixture was postponed on Saturday.
Their desire to help out ahead of the rearranged third-round tie stems from the climax to the 2009/10 season when Bournemouth clinched promotion to League One at Burton.
Cherries fans were bowled over by the way they were treated both at the Pirelli Stadium and in the Staffordshire town generally and felt moved to make a nice gesture of their own, reports the Burton Mail.
One supporter, David Whitehead, suggested a Burton coach fund, while another, Adrian Lee, set up an online fundraising page and cash flowed in.
Grateful Burton supporters were quick to add their thanks.
‘This shows the true spirit of Cup football,’ Wayne Pycroft told the Burton Mail. ‘Neither club will win the final but many will remember the great gesture between two clubs.
‘Hopefully, Bournemouth fans will get recognised for this great gesture by the FA with a special fans award.’
Adam Drew said: ‘This generous and overwhelming gesture shows the spirit of football is not dead.’
In a brilliant display of generosity, Cherries fans have raised more than £2,800 for Albion supporters’ coaches to bring fans south next Tuesday, January 14 after the original fixture was postponed on Saturday.
Their desire to help out ahead of the rearranged third-round tie stems from the climax to the 2009/10 season when Bournemouth clinched promotion to League One at Burton.
Cherries fans were bowled over by the way they were treated both at the Pirelli Stadium and in the Staffordshire town generally and felt moved to make a nice gesture of their own, reports the Burton Mail.
One supporter, David Whitehead, suggested a Burton coach fund, while another, Adrian Lee, set up an online fundraising page and cash flowed in.
Grateful Burton supporters were quick to add their thanks.
‘This shows the true spirit of Cup football,’ Wayne Pycroft told the Burton Mail. ‘Neither club will win the final but many will remember the great gesture between two clubs.
‘Hopefully, Bournemouth fans will get recognised for this great gesture by the FA with a special fans award.’
Adam Drew said: ‘This generous and overwhelming gesture shows the spirit of football is not dead.’
