EPL Today
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Blog is on hold
I have decided due to extreme low numbers that I am going to discontinue the blog for the time being. It may or may not be picked back up but for the time being, it is stopped.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Aston Villa 1-0 Manchester City
Aston Villa striker Darren Bent showed why his £18million transfer fee could prove money well spent with the winner against title-chasing Manchester City at Villa Park.
The former Sunderland player, who joined Villa on Tuesday in a club-record deal, broke the deadlock with his first clear-cut opportunity after 18 minutes.
With their £59million strike force of Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko, the visitors dominated for long spells but struggled to find a way past Villa's rock-solid defence in which James Collins and former City centre-back Richard Dunne were outstanding.
And the result means City are now three points behind Premier League leaders Manchester United and have played two games more.
The former Sunderland player, who joined Villa on Tuesday in a club-record deal, broke the deadlock with his first clear-cut opportunity after 18 minutes.
With their £59million strike force of Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko, the visitors dominated for long spells but struggled to find a way past Villa's rock-solid defence in which James Collins and former City centre-back Richard Dunne were outstanding.
And the result means City are now three points behind Premier League leaders Manchester United and have played two games more.
Newcastle 1-1 Tottenham
Aaron Lennon broke Newcastle's hearts at the death once again as Tottenham fought back to snatch a draw at St James' Park.
Lennon struck a minute into injury time just when it looked as though Fabricio Coloccini's 59th-minute winner had handed the Magpies all three points.
However, just as they had done last Sunday at Sunderland, Alan Pardew's men conceded in stoppage time to let two points slip from their grasp.
Spurs would argue that they deserved at least a point after dominating for long periods, but they left it desperately late to get their reward.
Leon Best and Luka Modric both it the bar and the Magpies were indebted to goalkeeper Steve Harper for two fines saves.
Lennon struck a minute into injury time just when it looked as though Fabricio Coloccini's 59th-minute winner had handed the Magpies all three points.
However, just as they had done last Sunday at Sunderland, Alan Pardew's men conceded in stoppage time to let two points slip from their grasp.
Spurs would argue that they deserved at least a point after dominating for long periods, but they left it desperately late to get their reward.
Leon Best and Luka Modric both it the bar and the Magpies were indebted to goalkeeper Steve Harper for two fines saves.
Manchester United 5-0 Birmingham
Dimitar Berbatov scored his third hat-trick of the season as Manchester United turned in a five-star performance to demolish sorry Birmingham.
The prolific Bulgarian now has 18 goals this season and yet another match ball to go alongside those he collected against Liverpool and Blackburn earlier in the campaign.
More importantly for Sir Alex Ferguson, his side tightened their grip on top spot, with Ryan Giggs and Nani also finding the net as the leaders extended their unbeaten run this season to 22 games ahead of Tuesday's trip to Blackpool, the first of their matches in hand.
Berbatov for one will be looking forward to his first outing at Bloomfield Road, knowing just how much damage he is capable of inflicting.
The prolific Bulgarian now has 18 goals this season and yet another match ball to go alongside those he collected against Liverpool and Blackburn earlier in the campaign.
More importantly for Sir Alex Ferguson, his side tightened their grip on top spot, with Ryan Giggs and Nani also finding the net as the leaders extended their unbeaten run this season to 22 games ahead of Tuesday's trip to Blackpool, the first of their matches in hand.
Berbatov for one will be looking forward to his first outing at Bloomfield Road, knowing just how much damage he is capable of inflicting.
Fulham 2-0 Stoke City
Fulham had the last laugh in this season's feud with Stoke by completing a Premier League double over them to edge closer to safety.
Top scorer Clint Dempsey netted his eighth and ninth goals of the season as the Cottagers made it three wins in five to put daylight between themselves and the drop zone.
The match was the third tempestuous affair between the sides this season and Potters captain Ryan Shawcross was sent off after bundling over Dempsey in the box.
The American, who had already given his side a half-time lead, stepped up to convert the resulting penalty and seal a comfortable victory.
The opposing managers had refused to shake hands following their two previous meetings this season.
Top scorer Clint Dempsey netted his eighth and ninth goals of the season as the Cottagers made it three wins in five to put daylight between themselves and the drop zone.
The match was the third tempestuous affair between the sides this season and Potters captain Ryan Shawcross was sent off after bundling over Dempsey in the box.
The American, who had already given his side a half-time lead, stepped up to convert the resulting penalty and seal a comfortable victory.
The opposing managers had refused to shake hands following their two previous meetings this season.
Everton 2-2 West Ham
Marouane Fellaini hit an injury-time equaliser as Everton twice came from behind to deny struggling West Ham a much-needed win.
The Hammers and their beleaguered manager, Avram Grant, seemed on course for victory at Goodison Park as Frederic Piquionne headed them in front for the second time six minutes from time.
But Piquionne was sent off for celebrating with fans and the Hammers, who remain bottom of the Premier League, were denied as Fellaini struck.
The visitors had taken the lead after 27 minutes as the once goal-shy Jonathan Spector found the net for the fourth time in two months but Diniyar Bilyaletdinov came off the Everton bench to level.
The result was yet another blow for Grant, whose position has again been the subject of heavy speculation over the past week.
Yet for most of the game his team, with the returning Scott Parker driving them forward, the visitors acquitted themselves superbly.
The Hammers and their beleaguered manager, Avram Grant, seemed on course for victory at Goodison Park as Frederic Piquionne headed them in front for the second time six minutes from time.
But Piquionne was sent off for celebrating with fans and the Hammers, who remain bottom of the Premier League, were denied as Fellaini struck.
The visitors had taken the lead after 27 minutes as the once goal-shy Jonathan Spector found the net for the fourth time in two months but Diniyar Bilyaletdinov came off the Everton bench to level.
The result was yet another blow for Grant, whose position has again been the subject of heavy speculation over the past week.
Yet for most of the game his team, with the returning Scott Parker driving them forward, the visitors acquitted themselves superbly.
Sunderland 2-1 Blackpool
Kieran Richardson rose to the challenge following Darren Bent's move to Aston Villa by scoring a brace for Sunderland and steering them to victory at Blackpool.
Richardson's first goals of the season could not have come at a better time for manager Steve Bruce as his attacking options were limited.
However, Bruce had to endure a nervous last few minutes with Charlie Adam pulling a goal back from the penalty spot in the 85th minute.
Richardson's goals put Sunderland in the driving seat in the first half but they were also grateful to goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who made three magnificent saves in that period.
Bruce's side made a flying start and Blackpool were pinned back again in the seventh minute when Jordan Henderson swung in a cross from the right.
Richardson's first goals of the season could not have come at a better time for manager Steve Bruce as his attacking options were limited.
However, Bruce had to endure a nervous last few minutes with Charlie Adam pulling a goal back from the penalty spot in the 85th minute.
Richardson's goals put Sunderland in the driving seat in the first half but they were also grateful to goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who made three magnificent saves in that period.
Bruce's side made a flying start and Blackpool were pinned back again in the seventh minute when Jordan Henderson swung in a cross from the right.
Arsenal 3-0 Wigan
Robin van Persie smashed a hat-trick as Arsenal kept up their Premier League title challenge with a 3-0 win over 10-man Wigan at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners should have been out of sight by half-time, but had only van Persie's 21st-minute strike to show for their dominance as Latics keeper Ali Al Habsi made a string of fine saves.
The in-form Dutchman eventually fired in a second just before the hour, but then blasted a penalty over the bar after Gary Caldwell had been sent off for pulling back Cesc Fabregas.
However, van Persie duly completed his hat-trick with five minutes left to make it six in the last three games.
Arsenal - with five changes from the starting XI which beat Leeds in their FA Cup third round replay on Wednesday night - started brightly.
The Gunners should have been out of sight by half-time, but had only van Persie's 21st-minute strike to show for their dominance as Latics keeper Ali Al Habsi made a string of fine saves.
The in-form Dutchman eventually fired in a second just before the hour, but then blasted a penalty over the bar after Gary Caldwell had been sent off for pulling back Cesc Fabregas.
However, van Persie duly completed his hat-trick with five minutes left to make it six in the last three games.
Arsenal - with five changes from the starting XI which beat Leeds in their FA Cup third round replay on Wednesday night - started brightly.
Liverpool 3-0 Wolverhampton
Liverpool's revival under Kenny Dalglish is officially under way after he secured his first win since returning for his second spell as Reds boss with Wolves beaten 3-0 at Molineux.
Having seen improvements on the pitch if not in results in his three previous matches in charge after taking over from Roy Hodgson the Scot finally got the victory he was craving.
Fernando Torres scored his eighth and ninth Barclays Premier League goals of the season either side of Raul Meireles capping a fine individual performance with a brilliantly-taken second-half volley.
It was only Liverpool's third away win in the league in 13 months and their first point outside Anfield since the 1-1 draw at Wigan on November 10.
Having seen improvements on the pitch if not in results in his three previous matches in charge after taking over from Roy Hodgson the Scot finally got the victory he was craving.
Fernando Torres scored his eighth and ninth Barclays Premier League goals of the season either side of Raul Meireles capping a fine individual performance with a brilliantly-taken second-half volley.
It was only Liverpool's third away win in the league in 13 months and their first point outside Anfield since the 1-1 draw at Wigan on November 10.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Piennar moved to Spurs for the style of football
New Tottenham signing Steven Pienaar has claimed it was the club's attractive football that persuaded him to sign for them ahead of Premier League champions Chelsea.
Having joined from Everton for around £3 million on Tuesday, Pienaar is looking forward to once again linking up with former Ajax team-mate Rafael van der Vaart and becoming a part of the entertaining style of football that manager Harry Redknapp employs at White Hart Lane.
"The style of football is really important," Pienaar said. "I played with Rafa at Ajax and we played attacking football and I want to be in a team that plays attacking football that is exciting for the supporters to watch.
GettyImagesSteven Pienaar can;t wait to link up with former Ajax team-mate Rafael van der Vaart
Having joined from Everton for around £3 million on Tuesday, Pienaar is looking forward to once again linking up with former Ajax team-mate Rafael van der Vaart and becoming a part of the entertaining style of football that manager Harry Redknapp employs at White Hart Lane.
"The style of football is really important," Pienaar said. "I played with Rafa at Ajax and we played attacking football and I want to be in a team that plays attacking football that is exciting for the supporters to watch.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Arsenal moves on in FA Cup
LEEDS, England -- Samir Nasri, Bacary Sagna and Robin van Persie scored to lead Arsenal over second-tier Leeds 3-1 in a third-round FA Cup replay on Wednesday night.
Leeds, which forced the replay with a 1-1 tie in London on Jan. 8, got a goal from former Arsenal trainee Bradley Johnson on a 25-yard shot that beat goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny just before halftime.
Arsenal will host Huddesfield in the fourth round on Jan. 30.
Leeds, which forced the replay with a 1-1 tie in London on Jan. 8, got a goal from former Arsenal trainee Bradley Johnson on a 25-yard shot that beat goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny just before halftime.
Arsenal will host Huddesfield in the fourth round on Jan. 30.
Panic by Aston Villa
In what is turning into a complete desperation move, the fee in the end for former Sunderland striker Darren Bent will be in the range of 40 million pounds.
FA Cup Round 4 Matchups (Jan 29 and 30)
- Everton v Chelsea
- Watford v Brighton
- Bolton Wanderers v Wigan Athletic
- Swansea City v Leyton Orient
- Burnley v Burton Albion
- Birmingham v Coventry City
- Stevenage v Reading
- Aston Villa v Blackburn Rovers
- West Ham United v Nottingham Forest
- Torquay United v Crawley Town
- Sheffield Wednesday v Hereford United
- Wolverhampton Wanderers v Stoke City
- Southampton v Manchester United
- Arsenal/Leeds v Huddersfield Town
- Notts County v Manchester City
- Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur
Replays for Wolverhampton, Man City and Stoke City results
For all the hope that was earned by Cardiff, Leicester, and Doncaster; it was all EPL in the replays.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Bent seals Aston Villa switch
New Aston Villa striker Darren Bent said he can't way to play for "a massive football club" after completing his transfer from Sunderland on Tuesday.
Bent will be officially unveiled as a Villa player at 1900 GMT following his move from the Stadium of Light for an undisclosed fee, believed to be in the region of £24 million including add-ons..
The former Tottenham and Charlton frontman has signed a four-and-a-half year deal with Villa and becomes Gerard Houllier's second January signing after Jean Makoun, who arrived from Lyon for £6 million last week.
Bent completed a medical and agreed personal terms and will be available to make his Villa debut against Manchester City on Saturday at Villa Park.
Bent will be officially unveiled as a Villa player at 1900 GMT following his move from the Stadium of Light for an undisclosed fee, believed to be in the region of £24 million including add-ons..
The former Tottenham and Charlton frontman has signed a four-and-a-half year deal with Villa and becomes Gerard Houllier's second January signing after Jean Makoun, who arrived from Lyon for £6 million last week.
Bent completed a medical and agreed personal terms and will be available to make his Villa debut against Manchester City on Saturday at Villa Park.
Pienaar announces Spurs move
Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar has announced on his Twitter account that he has chosen to join Tottenham over London rivals Chelsea.
Both clubs had offers in the region of £3 million accepted for Pienaar, who told Everton he would not extend his contract which expires at the end of the season.
However, Chelsea were unable to agree personal terms, allowing Tottenham to conclude a deal for the player who made 104 Premier League appearances for Everton.
Pienaar arrived at Tottenham's training ground on Tuesday to undergo a medical and later confirmed he will be signing a contract, reported to be for four years.
GettyImagesSteven Pienaar has joined Spurs for around £3m.
Both clubs had offers in the region of £3 million accepted for Pienaar, who told Everton he would not extend his contract which expires at the end of the season.
However, Chelsea were unable to agree personal terms, allowing Tottenham to conclude a deal for the player who made 104 Premier League appearances for Everton.
Pienaar arrived at Tottenham's training ground on Tuesday to undergo a medical and later confirmed he will be signing a contract, reported to be for four years.
Bent to Villa
In what may be the most shocking of all transfers, Darren Bent is negotiating with Aston Villa to leave Sunderlands and become the point man at Villa.
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has confirmed to ESPNsoccernet that Darren Bent is holding transfer negotiations with Aston Villa after the relegation strugglers had a bid, believed to be £18million, accepted. Bruce said: "I'm disappointed but that's the way it is."
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has confirmed to ESPNsoccernet that Darren Bent is holding transfer negotiations with Aston Villa after the relegation strugglers had a bid, believed to be £18million, accepted. Bruce said: "I'm disappointed but that's the way it is."
Monday, January 17, 2011
Villa may get Jamacian injection on loan
BIRMINGHAM, England -- Colorado Rapids striker Omar Cummings could join Premier League club Aston Villa on a short loan from Major League Soccer.
The 28-year-old Jamaican has been on a tryout at Villa, and manager Gerard Houllier says he is "getting better and better with every training session."
Houllier says he will "will make a decision about him soon. It will be a loan deal and we would need a work permit."
Cummings' MLS season is scheduled to start March 19 at home against the Portland Timbers.
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press
The 28-year-old Jamaican has been on a tryout at Villa, and manager Gerard Houllier says he is "getting better and better with every training session."
Houllier says he will "will make a decision about him soon. It will be a loan deal and we would need a work permit."
Cummings' MLS season is scheduled to start March 19 at home against the Portland Timbers.
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press
Van Bommel to the Spurs?
Rafael van der Vaart believes Bayern Munich midfielder Mark van Bommel would be a fine addition to the Tottenham team.
Van Bommel, 33, is out of contract at the end of the season and has been linked with a number of clubs around Europe including Spurs, AC Milan and Aston Villa, and Van der Vaart feels his Netherlands team-mate would be a strong signing.
"He is a super player with lots of experience, who would help any team," he told Sport Bild. "Tottenham want to take the next step to get to the same level as our local rivals Arsenal.
"I think that is possible. Therefore we can use good players."
Van der Vaart, 27, also reiterated his desire to remain at White Hart Lane long-term after ending a miserable two-year spell with Real Madrid in the summer.
GettyImagesRafael van der Vaart believes Mark van Bommel would be a good addition to the Tottenham squad
Van Bommel, 33, is out of contract at the end of the season and has been linked with a number of clubs around Europe including Spurs, AC Milan and Aston Villa, and Van der Vaart feels his Netherlands team-mate would be a strong signing.
"He is a super player with lots of experience, who would help any team," he told Sport Bild. "Tottenham want to take the next step to get to the same level as our local rivals Arsenal.
"I think that is possible. Therefore we can use good players."
Van der Vaart, 27, also reiterated his desire to remain at White Hart Lane long-term after ending a miserable two-year spell with Real Madrid in the summer.
Dalglish to rebuild duo of Konchesky and Poulsen
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish says he has some bridges to rebuild in restoring the damaged confidence and reputations of some of the experienced members of his squad.
He specifically named Paul Konchesky and Christian Poulsen - both much-maligned signings of his predecessor Roy Hodgson - as those who have suffered the most.
Konchesky has not played once in Dalglish's three matches in charge since taking over a little more than a week ago and was an unused substitute for Sunday's 2-2 draw in the 215th Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield.
The 29-year-old was signed from Fulham on transfer deadline day in August but has failed to win over fans who believe he is not up to the quality required.
He specifically named Paul Konchesky and Christian Poulsen - both much-maligned signings of his predecessor Roy Hodgson - as those who have suffered the most.
Konchesky has not played once in Dalglish's three matches in charge since taking over a little more than a week ago and was an unused substitute for Sunday's 2-2 draw in the 215th Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield.
The 29-year-old was signed from Fulham on transfer deadline day in August but has failed to win over fans who believe he is not up to the quality required.
Suarez linked with Liverpool
Liverpool are reported to have made a move for Ajax striker Luis Suarez.
Ajax boss Frank de Boer has confirmed Suarez, 23, has indicated that he wants to move on if an offer comes in and said that plans for his replacement are already in place.
"I've had a showdown with Luis," De Boer said. "I wanted to know what his plans are and what the future will bring. Luis is training hard. He told me that if a big club comes in for him now he is ready to talk to them.
"I've a back-up scenario ready."
Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reported on Monday that Liverpool made contact with Ajax on Saturday night and negotiations continued on Sunday.
GettyImagesLuis Suarez appears to be ready to take the next step in his career
Ajax boss Frank de Boer has confirmed Suarez, 23, has indicated that he wants to move on if an offer comes in and said that plans for his replacement are already in place.
"I've had a showdown with Luis," De Boer said. "I wanted to know what his plans are and what the future will bring. Luis is training hard. He told me that if a big club comes in for him now he is ready to talk to them.
"I've a back-up scenario ready."
Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reported on Monday that Liverpool made contact with Ajax on Saturday night and negotiations continued on Sunday.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Tottenham 0-0 Manchester United
Brazilian full-back Rafael was sent off but 10-man Manchester United still kept their unbeaten record as they went back to the top of the Barclays Premier League on goal difference after a frantic encounter at White Hart Lane.
Wayne Rooney brought a couple of smart saves from Tottenham goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes and Rafael van der Vaart also went close on two occasions for Tottenham.
But in the end the two sides cancelled each other out in a game which proved the title race is going to be tight right until the end.
The draw sees Tottenham, who have not beaten United since May 2001 in a run which now stretches 24 matches, stay fifth a point behind Chelsea and outside the Champions League places after a game which was long on effort and passion but short on quality.
Wayne Rooney brought a couple of smart saves from Tottenham goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes and Rafael van der Vaart also went close on two occasions for Tottenham.
But in the end the two sides cancelled each other out in a game which proved the title race is going to be tight right until the end.
The draw sees Tottenham, who have not beaten United since May 2001 in a run which now stretches 24 matches, stay fifth a point behind Chelsea and outside the Champions League places after a game which was long on effort and passion but short on quality.
Birmingham 1-1 Aston Villa
James Collins rescued a precious point for Aston Villa in a pulsating relegation clash with locals rivals Birmingham at St. Andrew's.
Blues defender Roger Johnson put Alex McLeish's side in front early in the second period. But Collins made no mistake from close range to salvage a share of the spoils for Villa.
Villa dominated the opening phase and final part of the game and hit the woodwork on three occasions. However, Birmingham also squandered several clear-cut opportunities.
Blues had defeated Villa in the Carling Cup quarter-final last month but Collins' point-saver means they have not beaten their rivals in a league game for nearly six years.
Villa made a positive start, with Stewart Downing playing just behind John Carew in a 4-1-4-1 formation, and could have taken the lead inside the first minute. Downing put Blues keeper Ben Foster under pressure and his clearance went straight to Gabriel Agbonlahor. He cut into the box unopposed but from 12 yards out fired over the bar.
Blues defender Roger Johnson put Alex McLeish's side in front early in the second period. But Collins made no mistake from close range to salvage a share of the spoils for Villa.
Villa dominated the opening phase and final part of the game and hit the woodwork on three occasions. However, Birmingham also squandered several clear-cut opportunities.
Blues had defeated Villa in the Carling Cup quarter-final last month but Collins' point-saver means they have not beaten their rivals in a league game for nearly six years.
Villa made a positive start, with Stewart Downing playing just behind John Carew in a 4-1-4-1 formation, and could have taken the lead inside the first minute. Downing put Blues keeper Ben Foster under pressure and his clearance went straight to Gabriel Agbonlahor. He cut into the box unopposed but from 12 yards out fired over the bar.
Sunderland 1-1 Newcastle
Record signing Asamoah Gyan got Sunderland out of jail with a last-gasp equaliser to deny Newcastle a derby double.
Magpies skipper Kevin Nolan looked to have won the game with his audacious 52nd-minute strike, but with the clock having ticked into the fourth minute of injury time, Gyan almost involuntarily nudged the ball over the line after keeper Steve Harper could only parry Phil Bardsley's shot to snatch a point his side barely deserved.
Newcastle left the Stadium of Light bemoaning the loss of two points which were firmly within their grasp for all but a few seconds of a tense encounter despite the absence of Andy Carroll, Cheik Tiote and Steven Taylor, three of the club's most impressive performers this season.
They dominated the game after Nolan's strike, his 10th of the season - the first time he has reached double figures in the Premier League - and headed off on the short trip back to Tyneside kicking themselves.
Magpies skipper Kevin Nolan looked to have won the game with his audacious 52nd-minute strike, but with the clock having ticked into the fourth minute of injury time, Gyan almost involuntarily nudged the ball over the line after keeper Steve Harper could only parry Phil Bardsley's shot to snatch a point his side barely deserved.
Newcastle left the Stadium of Light bemoaning the loss of two points which were firmly within their grasp for all but a few seconds of a tense encounter despite the absence of Andy Carroll, Cheik Tiote and Steven Taylor, three of the club's most impressive performers this season.
They dominated the game after Nolan's strike, his 10th of the season - the first time he has reached double figures in the Premier League - and headed off on the short trip back to Tyneside kicking themselves.
Liverpool 2-2 Everton
It was not an entirely happy homecoming for Kenny Dalglish on his first match at Anfield since becoming Liverpool manager for the second time but a draw in an entertaining 215th Merseyside derby represented some progress.
The club's legendary former player went into the game on the back of successive defeats to Manchester United and Blackpool but the result against their closest rivals at least ensured his first point.
However, there are still many issues to address as Liverpool's defensive frailties let an early advantage slip in a frenetic six minutes after half-time and their pride was only salvaged by a penalty in the final quarter.
Raul Meireles picked the perfect time to score his first goal to give the club he joined in the summer an interval lead but Sylvain Distin and Jermaine Beckford soon turned that around after the break.
The club's legendary former player went into the game on the back of successive defeats to Manchester United and Blackpool but the result against their closest rivals at least ensured his first point.
However, there are still many issues to address as Liverpool's defensive frailties let an early advantage slip in a frenetic six minutes after half-time and their pride was only salvaged by a penalty in the final quarter.
Raul Meireles picked the perfect time to score his first goal to give the club he joined in the summer an interval lead but Sylvain Distin and Jermaine Beckford soon turned that around after the break.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Arsenal 3-0 West Ham
Avram Grant's reign as West Ham manager looked set to have ended in defeat as Arsenal romped to a 3-0 win at Upton Park.
The Irons boss was widely expected to lose his job, regardless of the result, with Martin O'Neill ready to step in to try to retain the club's Premier League status.
Arsenal, who moved to within two points of top spot, showed the Israeli's team no mercy as goals from Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott put them in command at half-time, before the Dutchman wrapped things up with a penalty on 77 minutes.
Despite guiding the East London club into the semi-finals of the Carling Cup, where they beat Birmingham in midweek to move within 90 minutes of Wembley, the patience of owners David Gold and David Sullivan - who only appointed Grant during the summer - appears to have run out.
The Irons boss was widely expected to lose his job, regardless of the result, with Martin O'Neill ready to step in to try to retain the club's Premier League status.
Arsenal, who moved to within two points of top spot, showed the Israeli's team no mercy as goals from Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott put them in command at half-time, before the Dutchman wrapped things up with a penalty on 77 minutes.
Despite guiding the East London club into the semi-finals of the Carling Cup, where they beat Birmingham in midweek to move within 90 minutes of Wembley, the patience of owners David Gold and David Sullivan - who only appointed Grant during the summer - appears to have run out.
Wigan 1-1 Fulham
Andrew Johnson's late deflected strike earned Fulham a point at fellow strugglers Wigan.
The hosts went ahead in the 57th minute through Hugo Rodallega, who neatly guided the ball over David Stockdale.
Substitute Johnson drew things level with four minutes of normal time remaining with a shot that hit Gary Caldwell on its way towards goal, leaving Ali Al Habsi unable to stop it going in.
The result saw Wigan move out of the Barclays Premier League drop zone to 17th but they are only a point clear of the bottom three, while Fulham are one point better off in 15th.
In a scrappy opening to the game, Chris Baird made the first attempt on goal after eight minutes, striking a low shot from outside the area which Al Habsi got down to his left to save comfortably.
The hosts went ahead in the 57th minute through Hugo Rodallega, who neatly guided the ball over David Stockdale.
Substitute Johnson drew things level with four minutes of normal time remaining with a shot that hit Gary Caldwell on its way towards goal, leaving Ali Al Habsi unable to stop it going in.
The result saw Wigan move out of the Barclays Premier League drop zone to 17th but they are only a point clear of the bottom three, while Fulham are one point better off in 15th.
In a scrappy opening to the game, Chris Baird made the first attempt on goal after eight minutes, striking a low shot from outside the area which Al Habsi got down to his left to save comfortably.
West Bromwish 3-2 Blackpool
Two-goal Peter Odemwingie ended West Brom's five game losing streak with a late winner against Blackpool at The Hawthorns.
David Vaughan had put Blackpool in front but Albion replied through Odemwingie and James Morrison only for Gary Taylor-Fletcher to level for the Seasiders. But then Odemwingie struck with three minutes remaining to move Albion away from the relegation zone.
Blackpool, fresh from their mid-week triumph over Liverpool, played with their customary freedom with the in-demand Charlie Adam in fine form in midfield. But they were left to rue two missed chances by the normally deadly DJ Campbell.
The Baggies were unsurprisingly devoid of confidence in the first half after their recent poor run. But they were dragged up off the floor by the driving force in midfield of Youssouf Mulumbu.
David Vaughan had put Blackpool in front but Albion replied through Odemwingie and James Morrison only for Gary Taylor-Fletcher to level for the Seasiders. But then Odemwingie struck with three minutes remaining to move Albion away from the relegation zone.
Blackpool, fresh from their mid-week triumph over Liverpool, played with their customary freedom with the in-demand Charlie Adam in fine form in midfield. But they were left to rue two missed chances by the normally deadly DJ Campbell.
The Baggies were unsurprisingly devoid of confidence in the first half after their recent poor run. But they were dragged up off the floor by the driving force in midfield of Youssouf Mulumbu.
Stoke City 2-0 Bolton
The smile was back on the face of Stoke manager Tony Pulis as goals from Danny Higginbotham and Matthew Etherington gave his side victory against Bolton at the Britannia Stadium.
Before kick-off Pulis was shaken by the news his proposed move for Demba Ba for a reported £7.1 million had broke down after Hoffenheim's Senegal striker failed a medical.
But the manager's mood would soon have changed thanks to a comfortable win with the goals coming either side of half-time.
Even though they were bolstered by the return of midfielder Stuart Holden, Bolton were always second best as they slumped to their fifth successive defeat on the road.
Before kick-off Pulis was shaken by the news his proposed move for Demba Ba for a reported £7.1 million had broke down after Hoffenheim's Senegal striker failed a medical.
But the manager's mood would soon have changed thanks to a comfortable win with the goals coming either side of half-time.
Even though they were bolstered by the return of midfielder Stuart Holden, Bolton were always second best as they slumped to their fifth successive defeat on the road.
Manchester City 4-3 Wolverhampton
Edin Dzeko made his £27 million introduction for Manchester City - and was immediately upstaged by strike partner Carlos Tevez as the Blues secured top spot in the Premier League by edging a seven-goal thriller at Eastlands.
The Argentina striker joined Dimitar Berbatov at the head of the Premier League goalscoring charts with a second-half double to take his tally to 14, accompanying Kolo and Yaya Toure on the scoresheet as the brothers achieved the rare feat of finding the net in the same top-flight game.
It must have been quite an eye-opener for Dzeko, who produced an encouraging performance on his debut and appears willing to do the hard work in his partnership with Tevez in addition to the glamourous stuff.
The Bosnian was also given an instant lesson in the difficulty of securing points in England as City, having been totally outplayed for the first half-hour, then needed to resist a late Wolves surge after the plucky Black Country outfit had pulled themselves back into a contest that had already been turned on its head after their initial heroics.
The Argentina striker joined Dimitar Berbatov at the head of the Premier League goalscoring charts with a second-half double to take his tally to 14, accompanying Kolo and Yaya Toure on the scoresheet as the brothers achieved the rare feat of finding the net in the same top-flight game.
It must have been quite an eye-opener for Dzeko, who produced an encouraging performance on his debut and appears willing to do the hard work in his partnership with Tevez in addition to the glamourous stuff.
The Bosnian was also given an instant lesson in the difficulty of securing points in England as City, having been totally outplayed for the first half-hour, then needed to resist a late Wolves surge after the plucky Black Country outfit had pulled themselves back into a contest that had already been turned on its head after their initial heroics.
Chelsea 2-0 Blackburn
Chelsea finally stopped the rot today as arguably their best Premier League performance for more than two months saw them beat Blackburn and climb back into the top four.
Looking to end their worst run in the league for almost 15 years after winning just one of their previous nine games, the Blues dominated from start to finish at Stamford Bridge.
Both their goals came from corner kicks courtesy of Branislav Ivanovic and Nicolas Anelka, with their final ball continuing to let them down in open play.
The duo also found the net against Rovers back in October to keep Chelsea five points clear at the top of the table, but their efforts today were arguably even more precious.
Looking to end their worst run in the league for almost 15 years after winning just one of their previous nine games, the Blues dominated from start to finish at Stamford Bridge.
Both their goals came from corner kicks courtesy of Branislav Ivanovic and Nicolas Anelka, with their final ball continuing to let them down in open play.
The duo also found the net against Rovers back in October to keep Chelsea five points clear at the top of the table, but their efforts today were arguably even more precious.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Herd commits to Villa
The versatile 21-year-old, who can play in central midfield or at full-back, has committed himself to Villa until the summer of 2014.
Herd, who made his Premier League debut against Manchester United earlier this season, becomes the latest Villa academy product to put pen to paper on a new deal after Marc Albrighton, Barry Bannan, Ciaran Clark, Jonathan Hogg and Gary Gardner.
Perth-born Herd, who arrived at Villa as a 15-year-old, was included in Australia's squad for the current Asian Cup, although he did not make the final line-up.
The youngster, who scored a hat-trick for the reserves in a 10-1 win over Arsenal on Monday, said: "When I got offered the contract, it wasn't a difficult decision to make at all.
Herd, who made his Premier League debut against Manchester United earlier this season, becomes the latest Villa academy product to put pen to paper on a new deal after Marc Albrighton, Barry Bannan, Ciaran Clark, Jonathan Hogg and Gary Gardner.
Perth-born Herd, who arrived at Villa as a 15-year-old, was included in Australia's squad for the current Asian Cup, although he did not make the final line-up.
The youngster, who scored a hat-trick for the reserves in a 10-1 win over Arsenal on Monday, said: "When I got offered the contract, it wasn't a difficult decision to make at all.
Tottenham are understood to have accepted a bid from Birmingham for striker Robbie Keane.
West Ham have been eager to sign Keane, 30, on loan but Harry Redknapp said in his press conference on Friday that a move was unlikely as he would only allow the player to leave on a permanent basis.
Avram Grant, though, said that he remained hopeful of a deal.
"We have a few targets we want to bring in," he said. "It's not a secret that I am friends with Harry and I speak with him every couple of days. He (Keane) is a player we want to bring for sure. We are dealing with this."
However, it appears Birmingham have now reached an agreement to pay an initial £4 million for Keane, with the deal potentially rising by £2 million via various add-ons and clauses.
Birmingham have been given permission to hold talks with Keane, but the deal is believed to be very much in its infancy.
Getty Images
West Ham have been eager to sign Keane, 30, on loan but Harry Redknapp said in his press conference on Friday that a move was unlikely as he would only allow the player to leave on a permanent basis.
Avram Grant, though, said that he remained hopeful of a deal.
"We have a few targets we want to bring in," he said. "It's not a secret that I am friends with Harry and I speak with him every couple of days. He (Keane) is a player we want to bring for sure. We are dealing with this."
However, it appears Birmingham have now reached an agreement to pay an initial £4 million for Keane, with the deal potentially rising by £2 million via various add-ons and clauses.
Birmingham have been given permission to hold talks with Keane, but the deal is believed to be very much in its infancy.
ESPN new transfer news
Jan 14th, 2011
Daily Telegraph: Chelsea are looking to shake up their defence by putting right-back Jose Bosingwa up for sale and targeting £15 million centre-half Diego Godin from Atletico Madrid.
Daily Express: Arsene Wenger insists there is little chance of Arsenal letting anyone leave in the current transfer window. Goalkeeper Manuel Almunia and forward Andrey Arshavin have been linked with moves.
Daily Star: Southampton boss Nigel Adkins won’t let £10 million-rated teen Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain leave without a fight ... Gerard Houllier expects to clinch the £7.5m signing of Jean Makoun today in time for him to make his debut for Aston Villa against bitter rivals Birmingham.
Daily Telegraph: Chelsea are looking to shake up their defence by putting right-back Jose Bosingwa up for sale and targeting £15 million centre-half Diego Godin from Atletico Madrid.
Daily Express: Arsene Wenger insists there is little chance of Arsenal letting anyone leave in the current transfer window. Goalkeeper Manuel Almunia and forward Andrey Arshavin have been linked with moves.
Daily Star: Southampton boss Nigel Adkins won’t let £10 million-rated teen Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain leave without a fight ... Gerard Houllier expects to clinch the £7.5m signing of Jean Makoun today in time for him to make his debut for Aston Villa against bitter rivals Birmingham.
Carroll will not be in lineup versus Sunderland
Andy Carroll will miss out on a place in the Newcastle squad for the derby clash at Sunderland on Sunday as he continues to battle a thigh injury.
Carroll, who has not played for the club in 2011, was sent away to Dubai in a bid to restore his fitness, but Alan Pardew has now said he is not fit enough to feature.
"Andy won't play," he said. "He's not even close really. We just have to patch him up and repair him as best we can over the next couple of weeks, and hopefully he will be available then.
"His injury was a little bit worse than we originally thought. It's a thigh injury, a kicking muscle, and you can't chance that being torn.
Carroll, who has not played for the club in 2011, was sent away to Dubai in a bid to restore his fitness, but Alan Pardew has now said he is not fit enough to feature.
"Andy won't play," he said. "He's not even close really. We just have to patch him up and repair him as best we can over the next couple of weeks, and hopefully he will be available then.
"His injury was a little bit worse than we originally thought. It's a thigh injury, a kicking muscle, and you can't chance that being torn.
Santa Cruz to Blackburn
Blackburn Rovers have signed Paraguay striker Roque Santa Cruz on loan from Manchester City until the end of the season.
Santa Cruz, who played for Rovers between 2007-09 after leaving German giants Bayern Munich, could feature in their Premier League game at Chelsea on Saturday.
The striker scored 29 goals in 70 games during his first spell Ewood Park before former Rovers boss Mark Hughes took him to Manchester City in a £17.5 million deal.
Santa Cruz made just six Premier League starts for the Eastlands outfit as injuries and competition for places limited his opportunities. The 29-year-old is Rovers first signing since their takeover by Indian firm Venky's in November.
Santa Cruz, who played for Rovers between 2007-09 after leaving German giants Bayern Munich, could feature in their Premier League game at Chelsea on Saturday.
The striker scored 29 goals in 70 games during his first spell Ewood Park before former Rovers boss Mark Hughes took him to Manchester City in a £17.5 million deal.
Santa Cruz made just six Premier League starts for the Eastlands outfit as injuries and competition for places limited his opportunities. The 29-year-old is Rovers first signing since their takeover by Indian firm Venky's in November.
Van Der Vaart wants a long stay
Rafael Van der Vaart has made a huge impression in his first season at Tottenham and the Dutchman is keen to extend his stay at White Hart Lane.
Spurs pulled off one of the transfer coups of last summer when wrapping up a deal for the forward from Real Madrid in the final minutes of the window.
The 27-year-old has taken to the Premier League in seamless fashion and is keen to forge a long career in London. His present deal has a further three-and-a-half years to run and he has his sights set on an extension.
"I love it here," Van der Vaart told The Sun. "I love the players and I love the down-to-earth attitude at the club. If I have the opportunity, I would stay here for the rest of my career."
Spurs pulled off one of the transfer coups of last summer when wrapping up a deal for the forward from Real Madrid in the final minutes of the window.
The 27-year-old has taken to the Premier League in seamless fashion and is keen to forge a long career in London. His present deal has a further three-and-a-half years to run and he has his sights set on an extension.
"I love it here," Van der Vaart told The Sun. "I love the players and I love the down-to-earth attitude at the club. If I have the opportunity, I would stay here for the rest of my career."
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Bridge to Hammers
Relegation-threatened West Ham have completed the loan signing of Manchester City defender Wayne Bridge until the end of the season.
The Hammers have agreed to pay Bridge's £90,000-a-week wages and he passed a medical with the East London club on Wednesday evening.
Bridge, 30, adds real experience to the West Ham defence having made 289 appearances in the Premier League and won 36 caps for England. He turned down the chance to move to Aston Villa.
He had fallen behind summer signing Aleksandar Kolarov in Roberto Mancini's plans at Manchester City though, and has now made West Ham the third London club of his career following spells with Chelsea and Fulham.
The Hammers have agreed to pay Bridge's £90,000-a-week wages and he passed a medical with the East London club on Wednesday evening.
Bridge, 30, adds real experience to the West Ham defence having made 289 appearances in the Premier League and won 36 caps for England. He turned down the chance to move to Aston Villa.
He had fallen behind summer signing Aleksandar Kolarov in Roberto Mancini's plans at Manchester City though, and has now made West Ham the third London club of his career following spells with Chelsea and Fulham.
Bentley: I can resurrect my career
David Bentley has vowed to prove that he still has the talent to be a Premier League success after completing a loan switch to Birmingham from Tottenham for the remainder of the season.
Bentley cost £15 million when he moved from Blackburn to White Hart Lane in the summer of 2008 but a lack of first-team opportunities has led to the 26-year-old making the temporary switch to the Midlands.
"It has been a difficult time for me the last couple of years," Bentley said. "I found it hard not being involved as much as I wanted at Tottenham. They have got some great players and you can find yourself the wrong side of the fence.
"But there was no fall-out with Harry Redknapp and it is time to put things aside, move on - and hopefully I can have a positive effect on Birmingham. The aim is to resurrect my career and I love football and just want to have the chance to be playing.''
Bentley cost £15 million when he moved from Blackburn to White Hart Lane in the summer of 2008 but a lack of first-team opportunities has led to the 26-year-old making the temporary switch to the Midlands.
"It has been a difficult time for me the last couple of years," Bentley said. "I found it hard not being involved as much as I wanted at Tottenham. They have got some great players and you can find yourself the wrong side of the fence.
"But there was no fall-out with Harry Redknapp and it is time to put things aside, move on - and hopefully I can have a positive effect on Birmingham. The aim is to resurrect my career and I love football and just want to have the chance to be playing.''
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
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Blackpool 2-1 Liverpool
The manager and the year may have changed but Liverpool's problems away from home continued as Kenny Dalglish's first Premier League match since returning as boss ended in a 2-1 defeat at Blackpool.
Liverpool's troubles on the road contributed to the departure of Roy Hodgson last weekend but the Seasiders showed October's win by the same score at Anfield was no fluke.
Fernando Torres had given Dalglish the ideal start with a third-minute strike but goals from Gary Taylor-Fletcher and DJ Campbell extended Liverpool's miserable away league record to just two victories in almost 13 months.
It was not the start the 59-year-old Scot was expecting on his return to the top flight after more than 12 years away.
Liverpool's troubles on the road contributed to the departure of Roy Hodgson last weekend but the Seasiders showed October's win by the same score at Anfield was no fluke.
Fernando Torres had given Dalglish the ideal start with a third-minute strike but goals from Gary Taylor-Fletcher and DJ Campbell extended Liverpool's miserable away league record to just two victories in almost 13 months.
It was not the start the 59-year-old Scot was expecting on his return to the top flight after more than 12 years away.
Wednesday match
Liverpool and Blackpool get the attention of the entire EPL with the makeup match being rescheduled for today. Tied at 25 points with both in the middle of the table, this could be a very beneficial match for either team if they win.
New Liverpool manager Dalglish must win this match if he is to put forth a resume that could put him in the running for the job at the end of the season. He will be without skipper Steven Gerrard, who must face the 3 match ban for his straight red card versus Man U in the FA cup.
Competition Stats
New Liverpool manager Dalglish must win this match if he is to put forth a resume that could put him in the running for the job at the end of the season. He will be without skipper Steven Gerrard, who must face the 3 match ban for his straight red card versus Man U in the FA cup.
Competition Stats
Dalglish backs Torres to find form
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has vowed to help Fernando Torres emerge from his form slump as he heads to Blackpool on Wednesday night without suspended captain Steven Gerrard.
Torres has scored just six times in 22 matches and only once in his last eight games this season. Asked whether he is the man to revive Torres' season after taking over from Roy Hodgson, Dalglish said he would help where he could but insisted that Torres himself holds the key to a turnaround.
"In the games I've been in charge he has been brilliant,'' joked Dalglish. "It is strange when you talk about people of his calibre having a lack of confidence but at the same time he is still a top goalscorer and someone everyone fears when he goes on the pitch. Someone asked me if I have a magic wand for Fernando. I said I don't need one, he has got one himself.
Torres has scored just six times in 22 matches and only once in his last eight games this season. Asked whether he is the man to revive Torres' season after taking over from Roy Hodgson, Dalglish said he would help where he could but insisted that Torres himself holds the key to a turnaround.
"In the games I've been in charge he has been brilliant,'' joked Dalglish. "It is strange when you talk about people of his calibre having a lack of confidence but at the same time he is still a top goalscorer and someone everyone fears when he goes on the pitch. Someone asked me if I have a magic wand for Fernando. I said I don't need one, he has got one himself.
Mancini 'worried' about injured Balotelli
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has admitted he is seriously concerned about Mario Balotelli after the striker suffered yet another injury setback in his disjointed first season in England.
Balotelli is set for a month on the sidelines after a recurrence of a knee injury originally suffered during his debut against Timisoara in August. Balotelli, 20, was forced to have an operation that kept him out for two months, although he was quickly sidelined again through suspension after collecting a red card at West Brom.
However, Balotelli has not been seen since scoring a hat-trick against Aston Villa on December 28 and now Mancini has revealed the controversial front-man has suffered a recurrence of his knee injury. City medical staff have advised Balotelli to rest for four weeks and then resume training, in the belief that will rectify the problem. However, Mancini is not happy at the situation.
Balotelli is set for a month on the sidelines after a recurrence of a knee injury originally suffered during his debut against Timisoara in August. Balotelli, 20, was forced to have an operation that kept him out for two months, although he was quickly sidelined again through suspension after collecting a red card at West Brom.
However, Balotelli has not been seen since scoring a hat-trick against Aston Villa on December 28 and now Mancini has revealed the controversial front-man has suffered a recurrence of his knee injury. City medical staff have advised Balotelli to rest for four weeks and then resume training, in the belief that will rectify the problem. However, Mancini is not happy at the situation.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Wayne Bridge to West Ham?
West Ham have agreed to make Wayne Bridge their highest-paid player at £90,000-a-week, and are hoping the deal will go through in the next 48 hours in time for Saturday's clash with Arsenal.
Bridge is available on loan as he has been unable to secure a regular starting place under Roberto Mancini at Manchester City, and negotiations are ongoing after the left-back chose to reject an approach from Aston Villa.
The former Chelsea defender is keen to return to London and a source told ESPNsoccernet: "The deal is 90% done, but there are some loose ends."
City manager Roberto Mancini confirmed on Tuesday: "Today he [Bridge] is London for a medical. [It is] a loan."
GettyImagesWayne Bridge's place has been usurped by Aleksandar Kolarov this season
Bridge is available on loan as he has been unable to secure a regular starting place under Roberto Mancini at Manchester City, and negotiations are ongoing after the left-back chose to reject an approach from Aston Villa.
The former Chelsea defender is keen to return to London and a source told ESPNsoccernet: "The deal is 90% done, but there are some loose ends."
City manager Roberto Mancini confirmed on Tuesday: "Today he [Bridge] is London for a medical. [It is] a loan."
Monday, January 10, 2011
Will Charlie Adam stay?
Ian Holloway is convinced captain Charlie Adam will remain fully committed to the Blackpool cause despite being a transfer target for other clubs.
Charlie Adam has been Blackpool's talisman over the past two seasons
Blackpool rejected offers from both Aston Villa and Birmingham for Adam, and Holloway insists the 25-year-old Scotland midfielder can only leave if one of the Premier League's biggest clubs make a substantial bid.
Villa and Birmingham are reported to have offered around £2.5 million for Adam, who has 18 months remaining on his Bloomfield Road contract.
Holloway, who discussed the situation with Adam on Monday morning, said: "Charlie is in a great place where he is shining and looking good. He is playing the type of football that suits him and the crowd love him.
Charlie Adam has been Blackpool's talisman over the past two seasons
Blackpool rejected offers from both Aston Villa and Birmingham for Adam, and Holloway insists the 25-year-old Scotland midfielder can only leave if one of the Premier League's biggest clubs make a substantial bid.
Villa and Birmingham are reported to have offered around £2.5 million for Adam, who has 18 months remaining on his Bloomfield Road contract.
Holloway, who discussed the situation with Adam on Monday morning, said: "Charlie is in a great place where he is shining and looking good. He is playing the type of football that suits him and the crowd love him.
Ryan Babel in trouble over photoshop
Associated Press
LONDON -- Liverpool winger Ryan Babel could face disciplinary action from England's Football Association after posting to Twitter a digitally altered picture of referee Howard Webb wearing a Manchester United shirt.
Webb awarded a penalty shot against Liverpool and later ejected its captain, Steven Gerrard, in Man United's 1-0 victory Sunday in the third round of the FA Cup.
Before linking to the image of Webb, Babel wrote on Twitter: "And they call him one of the best referees. That's a joke."
The FA later told The Associated Press: "We will definitely look into this matter."
LONDON -- Liverpool winger Ryan Babel could face disciplinary action from England's Football Association after posting to Twitter a digitally altered picture of referee Howard Webb wearing a Manchester United shirt.
Webb awarded a penalty shot against Liverpool and later ejected its captain, Steven Gerrard, in Man United's 1-0 victory Sunday in the third round of the FA Cup.
Before linking to the image of Webb, Babel wrote on Twitter: "And they call him one of the best referees. That's a joke."
The FA later told The Associated Press: "We will definitely look into this matter."
Beckham begins process for training stint with Tottenham
LONDON -- David Beckham took a fitness test at Tottenham on Monday before starting his monthlong training stint with the Premier League club.
Despite talks collapsing over a two-month playing loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy, the midfielder and Spurs are still hopeful that a deal can be revived.
Beckham's stint with Tottenham is scheduled to end on Feb. 10, with the Galaxy expecting the former England captain back to prepare for the MLS season opener at Seattle on March 15.
After undergoing medical tests at Tottenham's training ground east of London, Beckham left within two hours wearing a club tracksuit top and shorts.
The 35-year-old Beckham is hoping to play for Tottenham to boost his chances of being recalled to the England team, having made 115 appearances -- the most by an England outfield player.
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press
Despite talks collapsing over a two-month playing loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy, the midfielder and Spurs are still hopeful that a deal can be revived.
Beckham's stint with Tottenham is scheduled to end on Feb. 10, with the Galaxy expecting the former England captain back to prepare for the MLS season opener at Seattle on March 15.
After undergoing medical tests at Tottenham's training ground east of London, Beckham left within two hours wearing a club tracksuit top and shorts.
The 35-year-old Beckham is hoping to play for Tottenham to boost his chances of being recalled to the England team, having made 115 appearances -- the most by an England outfield player.
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Finals of day 2 of FA Cup action
- Manchester United 1 - 0 Liverpool
- Tottenham Hotspur 3 - 0 Charlton Athletic
- Chelsea 7 - 0 Ipswich Town
- Leicester City 2 - 2 Manchester City
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Round 4 FA Cup Participants
- Hereford United
- Winner of Arsenal v Leeds United
- Birmingham
- Blackburn Rovers
- Bolton Wanderers
- Brighton
- Sheffield
- Burnley
- Burton Albion
- Coventry City
- Winner of Doncaster Rovers v Wolverhampton Wanderers
- Fulham
- Huddersfield Town
- Wigan Athletic
- Leyton Orient
- Nottingham Forest
- Reading
- Everton
- Aston Villa
- Southampton
- Winner of Stoke City v Cardiff City
- Notts County
- Swansea City
- Torquay United
- Watford
- West Ham United
- Stevenage
- Manchester United
- Tottenham
- Chelsea
- Winner of Leicester City v Manchester City
- Winner of Crawley Town v Derby County
- Winner of Wycombe Wanderers v Hereford/Lincoln City
FA Cup results
- Lincoln City 3 - 4 Hereford United
- Arsenal 1 - 1 Leeds United--- Will replay
- Millwall 1 - 4 Birmingham
- Blackburn Rovers 1 - 0 Queens Park Rangers
- Bolton Wanderers 2 - 0 York City
- Brighton 3 - 1 Portsmouth
- Bristol City 0 - 3 Sheffield Wednesday
- Burnley 4 - 2 Port Vale
- Burton Albion 2 - 1 Middlesbrough
- Coventry City 2 - 1 Crystal Palace
- Doncaster Rovers 2 - 2 Wolverhampton Wanderers--- Will replay
- Fulham 6 - 2 Peterborough United
- Huddersfield Town 2 - 0 Dover
- Hull City 2 - 3 Wigan Athletic
- Norwich City 0 - 1 Leyton Orient
- Preston North End 1 - 2 Nottingham Forest
- Reading 1 - 0 West Bromwich Albion
- Scunthorpe United 1 - 5 Everton
- Sheffield United 1 - 3 Aston Villa
- Southampton 2 - 0 Blackpool
- Stoke City 1 - 1 Cardiff City--- Will replay
- Sunderland 1 - 2 Notts County
- Swansea City 4 - 0 Colchester United
- Torquay United 1 - 0 Carlisle United
- Watford 4 - 1 Hartlepool United
- West Ham United 2 - 0 Barnsley
- Stevenage 3 - 1 Newcastle United
Hodgson is out
LONDON -- Roy Hodgson's six-month reign as Liverpool manager ended Saturday with former title-winning player and boss Kenny Dalglish put in charge until the end of the season.
Since taking over from Rafa Benitez in the offseason, Hodgson presided over Liverpool's worst start to a season in more than 50 years -- a dismal run of results that coincided with financial instability and a bitter court battle to oust unpopular American owners.
Roy Hodgson lasted just six months as manager of Liverpool, which has suffered some embarrassing losses this season.
But even the arrival of Boston Red Sox owner John Henry in October couldn't halt Liverpool's slide.
The club finally lost patience with the 63-year-old Hodgson after Wednesday's 3-1 loss at Blackburn, which left Liverpool languishing in 12th place, with star players such as Spain striker Fernando Torres underperforming this season.
Since taking over from Rafa Benitez in the offseason, Hodgson presided over Liverpool's worst start to a season in more than 50 years -- a dismal run of results that coincided with financial instability and a bitter court battle to oust unpopular American owners.
Roy Hodgson lasted just six months as manager of Liverpool, which has suffered some embarrassing losses this season.
But even the arrival of Boston Red Sox owner John Henry in October couldn't halt Liverpool's slide.
The club finally lost patience with the 63-year-old Hodgson after Wednesday's 3-1 loss at Blackburn, which left Liverpool languishing in 12th place, with star players such as Spain striker Fernando Torres underperforming this season.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Carroll send on holiday
Newcastle United have handed star striker Andy Carroll a much-needed rest, sending him to Dubai for a week to rest a nagging thigh injury, with manager Alan Pardew hoping the break will "refresh his batteries".
The England striker aggravated the injury following Newcastle's defeat at Tottenham on December 28 and now faces a race to be fit for the Tyne-Wear derby at Sunderland on Sunday week. Pardew, who believes Carroll has a 50-50 chance of being available for the trip to the Stadium of Light, feels the decision to give the 21-year-old a week in the sun will benefit the club's top scorer in the long run. "I've sent Andy away, Pardew told the Guardian. "He's had a tough season so I've told him to get some sun. It's a total rest for Andy. He's a super player, I love him to bits and I just want to make sure he comes back refreshed.
"The injury might be a blessing in disguise the break might be a good thing for Andy, it might refresh his batteries. If you get the opportunity to give players a break you have to, for sure. I think this is an opportunity for Andy."
GettyImagesAndy Carroll will miss Newcastle's FA CUp third round trip to Stevenage
The England striker aggravated the injury following Newcastle's defeat at Tottenham on December 28 and now faces a race to be fit for the Tyne-Wear derby at Sunderland on Sunday week. Pardew, who believes Carroll has a 50-50 chance of being available for the trip to the Stadium of Light, feels the decision to give the 21-year-old a week in the sun will benefit the club's top scorer in the long run. "I've sent Andy away, Pardew told the Guardian. "He's had a tough season so I've told him to get some sun. It's a total rest for Andy. He's a super player, I love him to bits and I just want to make sure he comes back refreshed.
"The injury might be a blessing in disguise the break might be a good thing for Andy, it might refresh his batteries. If you get the opportunity to give players a break you have to, for sure. I think this is an opportunity for Andy."
FA rescind Zabaleta's red card
Manchester City defender Pablo Zabaleta will be available to face Leicester Ciy in the FA Cup on Sunday after his red card was overturned by the Football Association.
Zabaleta was shown red by referee Mike Jones following an altercation with Bacary Sagna during their 0-0 draw at Arsenal on Wednesday night, but City have succeeded in having his three-match ban overturned following an appeal.
Both players were sent off but Arsenal ruled out an appeal against Sagna's dismissal after admitting the player had been overly aggressive.
An FA statement read: "At a Regulatory Commission hearing today, a claim for wrongful dismissal from Manchester City's Pablo Zabaleta was upheld. As a result, Zabaleta's three match suspension has been withdrawn."
PA PhotosPablo Zabaleta gets his marching orders
Zabaleta was shown red by referee Mike Jones following an altercation with Bacary Sagna during their 0-0 draw at Arsenal on Wednesday night, but City have succeeded in having his three-match ban overturned following an appeal.
Both players were sent off but Arsenal ruled out an appeal against Sagna's dismissal after admitting the player had been overly aggressive.
An FA statement read: "At a Regulatory Commission hearing today, a claim for wrongful dismissal from Manchester City's Pablo Zabaleta was upheld. As a result, Zabaleta's three match suspension has been withdrawn."
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Keane on his way out, Carroll will not be coming in
Sky Sports News revealed earlier on Wednesday that Birmingham were close to agreeing a £7million fee with Spurs for the Republic of Ireland striker.
Redknapp has now confirmed an accord has been reached between the two clubs and admits it is up to the Keane whether he leaves or stays to fight for his place.
The Spurs boss told Sky Sports News: "I think Birmingham have made an offer for Robbie - I'm not sure, around about £7million or whatever for him - and it's up to Robbie really.
"If it's a move he fancies, we wouldn't stand in his way.
"But he's only going to go permanently - he's not going to go on loan anywhere, we're not going to loan him out again, he'd been on loan last year at Celtic.
Redknapp has now confirmed an accord has been reached between the two clubs and admits it is up to the Keane whether he leaves or stays to fight for his place.
The Spurs boss told Sky Sports News: "I think Birmingham have made an offer for Robbie - I'm not sure, around about £7million or whatever for him - and it's up to Robbie really.
"If it's a move he fancies, we wouldn't stand in his way.
"But he's only going to go permanently - he's not going to go on loan anywhere, we're not going to loan him out again, he'd been on loan last year at Celtic.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Bolton 1-1 Wigan
Ronnie Stam scored an 80th-minute equaliser to salvage a precious point for Wigan and leave high-flying neighbours Bolton bitterly frustrated with a 1-1 draw.
When on-loan Benfica forward Rodrigo Moreno produced a delightful finish to put Owen Coyle's men ahead in the 54th minute, the stage was set for the Trotters to emerge victorious.
Wigan had already lost on-loan playmaker Tom Cleverley to injury in the 12th minute and saw goalkeeper Chris Kirkland carried off on a stretcher shortly after the hour mark.
Yet Latics boss Roberto Martinez has fashioned a side with guts.
His men refused to lie down and Dutchman Stam, a summer signing from FC Twente, stabbed home at the far post in the 80th minute to claim his first Wigan goal and earn a booking for his celebrations in front of the visiting supporters.
When on-loan Benfica forward Rodrigo Moreno produced a delightful finish to put Owen Coyle's men ahead in the 54th minute, the stage was set for the Trotters to emerge victorious.
Wigan had already lost on-loan playmaker Tom Cleverley to injury in the 12th minute and saw goalkeeper Chris Kirkland carried off on a stretcher shortly after the hour mark.
Yet Latics boss Roberto Martinez has fashioned a side with guts.
His men refused to lie down and Dutchman Stam, a summer signing from FC Twente, stabbed home at the far post in the 80th minute to claim his first Wigan goal and earn a booking for his celebrations in front of the visiting supporters.
Blackburn 3-1 Liverpool
Roy Hodgson has survived many low points in his short spell as Liverpool manager but a 3-1 defeat at Blackburn would seem to be one disaster too far and could hasten his exit from Anfield.
Even before Saturday's injury-time winner against Bolton the suggestion was club owners New England Sports Ventures were actively looking for a replacement.
On this performance they will probably have to speed up that search as two goals from Benjani Mwaruwari, who had not started since November 6 and scored once in 12 previous appearances, and one from Martin Olsson condemned the Reds to a ninth Premier League defeat of the season, despite Steven Gerrard's late consolation.
The now almost-obligatory chants for club legend Kenny Dalglish surfaced in the second half and at one point it seemed all four sides of Ewood Park were singing "You're getting sacked in the morning'' to Hodgson.
Even before Saturday's injury-time winner against Bolton the suggestion was club owners New England Sports Ventures were actively looking for a replacement.
On this performance they will probably have to speed up that search as two goals from Benjani Mwaruwari, who had not started since November 6 and scored once in 12 previous appearances, and one from Martin Olsson condemned the Reds to a ninth Premier League defeat of the season, despite Steven Gerrard's late consolation.
The now almost-obligatory chants for club legend Kenny Dalglish surfaced in the second half and at one point it seemed all four sides of Ewood Park were singing "You're getting sacked in the morning'' to Hodgson.
Wolverhampton 1-0 Chelsea
Chelsea's miserable Premier League campaign plumbed new depths with a 1-0 defeat at Wolves.
Jose Bosingwa's own goal after only five minutes decided the contest as Carlo Ancelotti's men saw their faint title hopes all but disappear completely.
Salomon Kalou missed a golden second-half chance, shooting wide when clean through, and Didier Drogba shot against the outside of the post, but resilient Wolves stood firm and could have had a second goal if Stephen Hunt's free-kick had dipped under rather than hit the bar.
The defeat means Chelsea have had just two wins from their last 11 league games, and they stand nine points behind leaders Manchester United having played a game more.
Jose Bosingwa's own goal after only five minutes decided the contest as Carlo Ancelotti's men saw their faint title hopes all but disappear completely.
Salomon Kalou missed a golden second-half chance, shooting wide when clean through, and Didier Drogba shot against the outside of the post, but resilient Wolves stood firm and could have had a second goal if Stephen Hunt's free-kick had dipped under rather than hit the bar.
The defeat means Chelsea have had just two wins from their last 11 league games, and they stand nine points behind leaders Manchester United having played a game more.
Newcastle 5-0 West Ham
Leon Best reminded Andy Carroll that there is more than one striker on Tyneside as Newcastle dumped woeful West Ham deep into relegation trouble.
Best, making his first Premier League start for the club in the absence of the injured Carroll and Shola Ameobi, finally opened his account on his 15th appearance with a fine hat-trick to repay a large slice of his £1.2 million transfer fee.
They were the 24-year-old's first goals in a week short of a year and came on the day it was revealed Newcastle had rejected an approach from Tottenham for Carroll.
Best's first-half brace and skipper Kevin Nolan's 45th-minute strike put the Magpies in the driving seat, and his third on the hour completed a first double of the campaign and ended the Hammers' recent revival before Peter Lovenkrands helped himself to a fifth.
Best, making his first Premier League start for the club in the absence of the injured Carroll and Shola Ameobi, finally opened his account on his 15th appearance with a fine hat-trick to repay a large slice of his £1.2 million transfer fee.
They were the 24-year-old's first goals in a week short of a year and came on the day it was revealed Newcastle had rejected an approach from Tottenham for Carroll.
Best's first-half brace and skipper Kevin Nolan's 45th-minute strike put the Magpies in the driving seat, and his third on the hour completed a first double of the campaign and ended the Hammers' recent revival before Peter Lovenkrands helped himself to a fifth.
Sunderland 1-0 Aston Villa
Aston Villa dropped into the bottom three of the Premier League for the first time in seven years as their former loan signing Phil Bardsley earned Sunderland victory at Villa Park.
Gerard Houllier's side slipped into the relegation zone on goal difference as a result of Wolves' shock victory over champions Chelsea at Molineux.
Villa had striker Emile Heskey sent off for violent conduct before Bardsley's decider and then Black Cats substitute Boudewijn Zenden was given his marching orders for two bookable offences.
A small section of Villa fans chanted "you are going to get sacked in the morning'' towards Houllier after Bardsley had broken the deadlock.
But the calls for Houllier to go were more intensified at the final whistle.
Gerard Houllier's side slipped into the relegation zone on goal difference as a result of Wolves' shock victory over champions Chelsea at Molineux.
Villa had striker Emile Heskey sent off for violent conduct before Bardsley's decider and then Black Cats substitute Boudewijn Zenden was given his marching orders for two bookable offences.
A small section of Villa fans chanted "you are going to get sacked in the morning'' towards Houllier after Bardsley had broken the deadlock.
But the calls for Houllier to go were more intensified at the final whistle.
Arsenal 0-0 Manchester City
Arsenal twice hit the woodwork as somehow Premier League title rivals Manchester City left Emirates Stadium with a point.
Robin van Persie and Cesc Fabregas both saw their first-half shots come back of the base of the same post.
City then had goalkeeper Joe Hart to thank after he produced a wonderful fingertip save to deny Van Persie on the hour as Arsenal had to be content with only a point.
The teams each finished with 10 men after full-backs Pablo Zabaleta and Bacary Sagna were shown straight red cards by referee Mike Jones for a needless clash by the touchline.
Arsenal almost snatched an early lead when Samir Nasri played Jack Wilshere into the left side of the penalty area - but his cut-back was just too far ahead of Van Persie, with Theo Walcott's cross from the goalline then hacked clear.
Robin van Persie and Cesc Fabregas both saw their first-half shots come back of the base of the same post.
City then had goalkeeper Joe Hart to thank after he produced a wonderful fingertip save to deny Van Persie on the hour as Arsenal had to be content with only a point.
The teams each finished with 10 men after full-backs Pablo Zabaleta and Bacary Sagna were shown straight red cards by referee Mike Jones for a needless clash by the touchline.
Arsenal almost snatched an early lead when Samir Nasri played Jack Wilshere into the left side of the penalty area - but his cut-back was just too far ahead of Van Persie, with Theo Walcott's cross from the goalline then hacked clear.
Everton 2-1 Tottenham
Everton put Tottenham's title aspirations and ambitious plans to sign David Beckham in the shade with 2-1 victory in a compelling Premier League encounter.
Seamus Coleman grabbed a 75th-minute winner at Goodison Park after the outstanding Rafael van der Vaart had cancelled out Louis Saha's superb early opener.
Both sides had numerous opportunities to win an absorbing contest but it was Everton, rediscovering the spark that has been missing for much of the season, who held on for a victory greeted with much jubilation.
The only consolation for Spurs was that they retained fourth place in the table thanks to yet another defeat for ailing champions Chelsea.
Seamus Coleman grabbed a 75th-minute winner at Goodison Park after the outstanding Rafael van der Vaart had cancelled out Louis Saha's superb early opener.
Both sides had numerous opportunities to win an absorbing contest but it was Everton, rediscovering the spark that has been missing for much of the season, who held on for a victory greeted with much jubilation.
The only consolation for Spurs was that they retained fourth place in the table thanks to yet another defeat for ailing champions Chelsea.
Blue looking to get Keane
As revealed by skysports.com on Tuesday, Birmingham have opened talks with Tottenham about a deal for the Republic of Ireland international.
Discussions are believed to be at an advanced stage between both parties with Birmingham hoping to be able to have the green light to let Keane undergo a medical.
Blues boss Alex McLeish has made a new striker his top priority in this month's transfer window and it appears Keane could be on his way to St Andrews.
The 30-year-old is keen to leave White Hart Lane after dropping down the pecking order in Harry Redknapp's plans and Spurs are willing to let him move on.
Discussions are believed to be at an advanced stage between both parties with Birmingham hoping to be able to have the green light to let Keane undergo a medical.
Blues boss Alex McLeish has made a new striker his top priority in this month's transfer window and it appears Keane could be on his way to St Andrews.
The 30-year-old is keen to leave White Hart Lane after dropping down the pecking order in Harry Redknapp's plans and Spurs are willing to let him move on.
Ben Arfa delight at deal
Sky Sports revealed earlier on Wednesday that Ben Arfa was on the verge of finalising a long-term stay at St James' Park after joining on loan from Marseille in the summer.
Ben Arfa is currently recovering from a double leg fracture suffered against Manchester City in October and has been restricted to just four appearances for the Magpies.
However, the 23-year-old is focused on his recovery and is delighted to have wrapped up a deal to stay with the Premier League club until 2015.
"I am absolutely delighted to be signing for Newcastle United on a permanent basis," Ben Arfa told the club's official website.
Ben Arfa is currently recovering from a double leg fracture suffered against Manchester City in October and has been restricted to just four appearances for the Magpies.
However, the 23-year-old is focused on his recovery and is delighted to have wrapped up a deal to stay with the Premier League club until 2015.
"I am absolutely delighted to be signing for Newcastle United on a permanent basis," Ben Arfa told the club's official website.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Manchester United 2-1 Stoke City
Manchester United's unbeaten fight for the Premier League title reached 20 matches at Old Trafford as Javier Hernandez and Nani scored the goals that sank Stoke 2-1.
Dean Whitehead had headed home a shock leveller for the visitors at the start of the second half but Sir Alex Ferguson's men deserved their latest triumph.
It took United's tally to 19 points out of the last 21 and opened up a lead of three points over Manchester City and five on Arsenal ahead of their meeting at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.
Yet rarely can such impressive and imposing statistics be greeted with such an underwhelming response, which is possibly the strangest aspect of a very strange season, which Hernandez at least has plenty of reason to enjoy.
Dean Whitehead had headed home a shock leveller for the visitors at the start of the second half but Sir Alex Ferguson's men deserved their latest triumph.
It took United's tally to 19 points out of the last 21 and opened up a lead of three points over Manchester City and five on Arsenal ahead of their meeting at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.
Yet rarely can such impressive and imposing statistics be greeted with such an underwhelming response, which is possibly the strangest aspect of a very strange season, which Hernandez at least has plenty of reason to enjoy.
Fulham 3-0 West Bromwich
Scott Carson made another high-profile mistake to set Fulham on course for a 3-0 victory that lifted them out of the Barclays Premier League relegation zone.
Carson, whose blunder against Croatia contributed to England failing to qualify for Euro 2008, got both hands to Simon Davies' 30-yard drive on the brink of half-time but could only deflect the ball into his own net.
West Brom's new-look defence was then exposed after the break as Fulham cruised to a first home win in six attempts with headed goals from Clint Dempsey and Brede Hangeland.
While Fulham climbed above West Brom into 13th place to relieve some of the pressure on manager Mark Hughes, the Baggies' slump continued.
A fifth consecutive defeat represented their worst run in six years and having been eighth before Christmas they now hover just two points above the relegation zone.
Carson, whose blunder against Croatia contributed to England failing to qualify for Euro 2008, got both hands to Simon Davies' 30-yard drive on the brink of half-time but could only deflect the ball into his own net.
West Brom's new-look defence was then exposed after the break as Fulham cruised to a first home win in six attempts with headed goals from Clint Dempsey and Brede Hangeland.
While Fulham climbed above West Brom into 13th place to relieve some of the pressure on manager Mark Hughes, the Baggies' slump continued.
A fifth consecutive defeat represented their worst run in six years and having been eighth before Christmas they now hover just two points above the relegation zone.
Birmingham 2-1 Blackpool
Scott Dann's last-gasp strike at Blackpool earned Birmingham their first away win of the season with their 2-1 success also moving them out of the Premier League relegation zone.
Alexander Hleb pounced on a mistake by Stephen Crainey to put Blues ahead in the first half before DJ Campbell's 68th-minute equaliser.
Alex McLeish's side then sealed victory thanks to Dann's close-range effort with a minute of normal time remaining.
It was a dramatic conclusion to a pulsating game which saw the woodwork rattled once by the hosts and twice by the visitors.
Blackpool, playing at home for the first time since November 20, were slow to get out of the blocks and fortunate not to be a goal down within the opening two minutes.
Alexander Hleb pounced on a mistake by Stephen Crainey to put Blues ahead in the first half before DJ Campbell's 68th-minute equaliser.
Alex McLeish's side then sealed victory thanks to Dann's close-range effort with a minute of normal time remaining.
It was a dramatic conclusion to a pulsating game which saw the woodwork rattled once by the hosts and twice by the visitors.
Blackpool, playing at home for the first time since November 20, were slow to get out of the blocks and fortunate not to be a goal down within the opening two minutes.
Mancini confirms Dzeko deal
The Bosnia international has been a target for a number of leading clubs around Europe after his goalscoring exploits for the Bundesliga side.
A transfer fee in the region of £27million has been mentioned for the 24-year-old's services, adding to the Eastlands outfit's already staggering expenditure as they target silverware at home and abroad.
Mancini would not be drawn on the sum City are prepared to splash out on Dzeko and does not want his squad to become distracted as they prepare for Wednesday's crucial Premier League clash with Arsenal at Emirates Stadium.
The Italian tactician did reveal that the transfer was on the cards but does not want to discuss the proposed new signing further until the forward's signature has been secured.
A transfer fee in the region of £27million has been mentioned for the 24-year-old's services, adding to the Eastlands outfit's already staggering expenditure as they target silverware at home and abroad.
Mancini would not be drawn on the sum City are prepared to splash out on Dzeko and does not want his squad to become distracted as they prepare for Wednesday's crucial Premier League clash with Arsenal at Emirates Stadium.
The Italian tactician did reveal that the transfer was on the cards but does not want to discuss the proposed new signing further until the forward's signature has been secured.
Drogba: Malaria still affecting my play
Didier Drogba has admitted the Chelsea dressing room has been an "unhappy'' place during their recent slump in form and says his own performances have been hampered by his battles with injury and malaria.
Both Chelsea and their Ivorian forward Drogba have been some way short of their best since a promising start to the season, with the Blues recording just one win in nine and Drogba contributing only eight goals in all competitions. His fitness problems have been well documented, not least the bout of malaria which was diagnosed in November.
Drogba told the Sun: "Injuries and the malaria have damaged my performances. I am still not 100% but I am fighting in each match to improve my playing levels and help the team. This season has been complicated for me by physical problems. It has not been easy to regain my strength but we need the points and my presence is necessary. I have always sacrificed for the team - and Chelsea need me.''
Both Chelsea and their Ivorian forward Drogba have been some way short of their best since a promising start to the season, with the Blues recording just one win in nine and Drogba contributing only eight goals in all competitions. His fitness problems have been well documented, not least the bout of malaria which was diagnosed in November.
Drogba told the Sun: "Injuries and the malaria have damaged my performances. I am still not 100% but I am fighting in each match to improve my playing levels and help the team. This season has been complicated for me by physical problems. It has not been easy to regain my strength but we need the points and my presence is necessary. I have always sacrificed for the team - and Chelsea need me.''
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Newcastle 1-0 Wigan
Newcastle moved back into the top half of the Premier League as Shola Ameobi's close-range finish clinched a 1-0 win at Wigan.
Ameobi, in the Magpies side as a replacement for injured top-scorer Andy Carroll, pounced in the 19th minute when Ali Al Habsi blocked Joey Barton's shot and Peter Lovenkrands's follow-up hit the post.
Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor also both struck the woodwork for the visitors, while Gary Caldwell saw his header come back off the bar for the Latics.
It was a welcome start to 2011 for Alan Pardew as his side bounced back from two straight defeats and moved up to 10th place.
For Wigan, who are just a point and a place above the relegation, the situation is more concerning.
Newcastle created the first goalscoring opportunity after just two minutes as Danny Simpson swung a cross into the box from the right.
Ameobi, in the Magpies side as a replacement for injured top-scorer Andy Carroll, pounced in the 19th minute when Ali Al Habsi blocked Joey Barton's shot and Peter Lovenkrands's follow-up hit the post.
Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor also both struck the woodwork for the visitors, while Gary Caldwell saw his header come back off the bar for the Latics.
It was a welcome start to 2011 for Alan Pardew as his side bounced back from two straight defeats and moved up to 10th place.
For Wigan, who are just a point and a place above the relegation, the situation is more concerning.
Newcastle created the first goalscoring opportunity after just two minutes as Danny Simpson swung a cross into the box from the right.
Chelsea 3-3 Aston Villa
Chelsea's amazing late fightback was in vain as Aston Villa scored a stoppage-time equaliser to leave the champions' Premier League title defence in considerable doubt.
Didier Drogba and John Terry looked to have snatched victory from the jaws of defeat with goals in the final six minutes at Stamford Bridge but the hosts' poor defending cost them when Ciaran Clark nodded home a late equaliser.
Both sides had held the lead in an exciting game, with Frank Lampard's penalty cancelled out by Ashley Young's spot-kick and Emile Heskey's header giving Villa the lead.
The result left Chelsea marooned in fifth place, six points behind Manchester United having played a game more, and crucially outside the Champions League places.
Didier Drogba and John Terry looked to have snatched victory from the jaws of defeat with goals in the final six minutes at Stamford Bridge but the hosts' poor defending cost them when Ciaran Clark nodded home a late equaliser.
Both sides had held the lead in an exciting game, with Frank Lampard's penalty cancelled out by Ashley Young's spot-kick and Emile Heskey's header giving Villa the lead.
The result left Chelsea marooned in fifth place, six points behind Manchester United having played a game more, and crucially outside the Champions League places.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Arsenal 3-0 Birmingham
Arsenal kept the pressure on the two Manchester clubs at the top of the Premier League as they overwhelmed Birmingham at rainswept St Andrew's.
A Robin van Persie free-kick and Samir Nasri's 13th goal of the season put the visitors in control before an own goal from Roger Johnson added to City's misery.
The Gunners remain in third spot, two points adrift of United and City, after a sixth away success of the season.
Arsenal were worthy winners and carved out a host of gilt-edged opportunities. Skipper Cesc Fabregas pulled the strings in midfield and City struggled to cope with the runs of Van Persie and Nasri. Only poor finishing and a couple of fine saves from Ben Foster kept the scoreline respectable.
A Robin van Persie free-kick and Samir Nasri's 13th goal of the season put the visitors in control before an own goal from Roger Johnson added to City's misery.
The Gunners remain in third spot, two points adrift of United and City, after a sixth away success of the season.
Arsenal were worthy winners and carved out a host of gilt-edged opportunities. Skipper Cesc Fabregas pulled the strings in midfield and City struggled to cope with the runs of Van Persie and Nasri. Only poor finishing and a couple of fine saves from Ben Foster kept the scoreline respectable.
West Ham 2-0 Wolverhampton
Freddie Sears put the seal on a sweet victory for West Ham as they climbed out of the relegation zone and sent Wolves crashing to the foot of the Premier League.
Winger Sears, a product of the club's academy and lifelong Hammers fan, struck from 15 yards in the 79th minute for his first goal since scoring on his debut in March 2008.
West Ham were already ahead by that stage, but they owed a debt of gratitude to Wolves' Ronald Zubar for their 51st-minute opener, the right-back letting the ball trickle in off his knee after Carlton Cole had taken an air shot.
Wolves had plenty of chances but Mick McCarthy's side, who won at Liverpool in midweek, could not find a way past Robert Green.
Winger Sears, a product of the club's academy and lifelong Hammers fan, struck from 15 yards in the 79th minute for his first goal since scoring on his debut in March 2008.
West Ham were already ahead by that stage, but they owed a debt of gratitude to Wolves' Ronald Zubar for their 51st-minute opener, the right-back letting the ball trickle in off his knee after Carlton Cole had taken an air shot.
Wolves had plenty of chances but Mick McCarthy's side, who won at Liverpool in midweek, could not find a way past Robert Green.
Tottenham 1-0 Fulham
Gareth Bale's lightning reflexes proved enough to extend Tottenham's perfect Christmas and send them back into the Premier League top four in a London derby with Fulham.
The winger reacted brilliantly to flick Rafael van der Vaart's free-kick strike past a wrong-footed Mark Schwarzer three minutes before half-time. Spurs missed plenty of chances to add to their lead but Michael Dawson also had to clear off his own line.
Otherwise, Fulham's lack of firepower once again cost them dear as they slipped to second bottom of the table, piling the pressure on manager Mark Hughes.
The build-up to the game was dominated by the news Spurs were trying to sign David Beckham on loan. And the home side set about demonstrating why manager Harry Redknapp was so keen to bring the former England captain to White Hart Lane.
The winger reacted brilliantly to flick Rafael van der Vaart's free-kick strike past a wrong-footed Mark Schwarzer three minutes before half-time. Spurs missed plenty of chances to add to their lead but Michael Dawson also had to clear off his own line.
Otherwise, Fulham's lack of firepower once again cost them dear as they slipped to second bottom of the table, piling the pressure on manager Mark Hughes.
The build-up to the game was dominated by the news Spurs were trying to sign David Beckham on loan. And the home side set about demonstrating why manager Harry Redknapp was so keen to bring the former England captain to White Hart Lane.
Sunderland 3-0 Blackburn
Darren Bent ended his personal goal drought as Sunderland bounced back from their horror show against Blackpool to defeat Blackburn 3-0.
The England striker glanced home a header eight minutes after Danny Welbeck's deflected 11th-minute shot had put the Black Cats in front to claim his 10th goal of the season and his first in six games.
Bent could easily have grabbed a second-half hat-trick and was guilty of a glaring 62nd-minute miss from just three yards, although former Sunderland striker El-Hadji Diouf had earlier contrived to fire over from even closer.
But substitute Asamoah Gyan sealed a victory which took Sunderland to 30 points for the season with a third at the death to provide the perfect antidote to their wastefulness against the Seasiders in front of a crowd of 36,242.
The England striker glanced home a header eight minutes after Danny Welbeck's deflected 11th-minute shot had put the Black Cats in front to claim his 10th goal of the season and his first in six games.
Bent could easily have grabbed a second-half hat-trick and was guilty of a glaring 62nd-minute miss from just three yards, although former Sunderland striker El-Hadji Diouf had earlier contrived to fire over from even closer.
But substitute Asamoah Gyan sealed a victory which took Sunderland to 30 points for the season with a third at the death to provide the perfect antidote to their wastefulness against the Seasiders in front of a crowd of 36,242.
Stoke City 2-0 Everton
A Kenwyne Jones header and a freak Phil Jagielka own goal handed Stoke victory in a full-blooded Premier League clash against Everton.
Jones rose to power the ball past Tim Howard midway through the first half before Jagielka put through his own net for second time in successive appearances with 21 minutes remaining at the Britannia Stadium.
Everton enjoyed large spells of dominance as they looked to kickstart their stuttering season but spurned a number of good opportunities.
Talisman Tim Cahill, making his final appearance before departing for Asia Cup duty with Australia, went the closest when he headed wide soon after Jones' opener.
Jones rose to power the ball past Tim Howard midway through the first half before Jagielka put through his own net for second time in successive appearances with 21 minutes remaining at the Britannia Stadium.
Everton enjoyed large spells of dominance as they looked to kickstart their stuttering season but spurned a number of good opportunities.
Talisman Tim Cahill, making his final appearance before departing for Asia Cup duty with Australia, went the closest when he headed wide soon after Jones' opener.
Manchester City 1-0 Blackpool
Three stunning misses from Carlos Tevez almost proved costly as Manchester City narrowly edged out Blackpool 1-0 to stay level with neighbours United at the top of the Premier League.
Tevez missed a first-half penalty and then two sitters in the space of five minutes after the break, including an open goal as he fell after rounding the goalkeeper.
But all that came after Adam Johnson's 33rd-minute strike and City endured a nervous finish to take all three points.
Tevez returned to lead the City attack as a knee injury ruled out Mario Balotelli only four days after his hat-trick against Aston Villa, one of four changes manager Roberto Mancini made to the side that won 4-0.
Tevez missed a first-half penalty and then two sitters in the space of five minutes after the break, including an open goal as he fell after rounding the goalkeeper.
But all that came after Adam Johnson's 33rd-minute strike and City endured a nervous finish to take all three points.
Tevez returned to lead the City attack as a knee injury ruled out Mario Balotelli only four days after his hat-trick against Aston Villa, one of four changes manager Roberto Mancini made to the side that won 4-0.
Liverpool 2-1 Bolton
Liverpool earned manager Roy Hodgson some breathing space, but nothing more, with a last-gasp 2-1 victory over Bolton at Anfield.
With reports suggesting owners New England Sports Ventures are now actively seeking a replacement, the 63-year-old knows he is living on borrowed time after a woeful six months in charge.
When Kevin Davies headed in Matt Taylor's 43rd-minute free-kick things looked even worse for Hodgson, but a revitalised Torres volleyed home an equaliser before Cole tapped in his first league goal for the club he joined in the summer.
The result came as a welcome relief to Hodgson after back-to-back Premier League defeats, but it may only give the Reds boss a temporary stay of execution.
With reports suggesting owners New England Sports Ventures are now actively seeking a replacement, the 63-year-old knows he is living on borrowed time after a woeful six months in charge.
When Kevin Davies headed in Matt Taylor's 43rd-minute free-kick things looked even worse for Hodgson, but a revitalised Torres volleyed home an equaliser before Cole tapped in his first league goal for the club he joined in the summer.
The result came as a welcome relief to Hodgson after back-to-back Premier League defeats, but it may only give the Reds boss a temporary stay of execution.
Manchester United 2-1 West Bromwich Albion
Javier Hernandez once again became Manchester United's head-boy to seal a controversial victory over West Brom.
The little Mexican's eighth goal of the season, 15 minutes from time, sealed a second Premier League away win and kept United top of the table.
Yet it barely told the story of a controversial match, the majority of which the hosts will forever be convinced United should have played with 10 men.
In addition, Wayne Rooney ended his nine-month wait for a goal in open play, James Morrison levelled with a brilliant volley and Peter Odemwingie missed a second-half penalty after Gary Neville had inexplicably escaped conceding one before the break.
The little Mexican's eighth goal of the season, 15 minutes from time, sealed a second Premier League away win and kept United top of the table.
Yet it barely told the story of a controversial match, the majority of which the hosts will forever be convinced United should have played with 10 men.
In addition, Wayne Rooney ended his nine-month wait for a goal in open play, James Morrison levelled with a brilliant volley and Peter Odemwingie missed a second-half penalty after Gary Neville had inexplicably escaped conceding one before the break.
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