tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-297550182011-07-29T07:03:53.282ZPremiership football results, opinion, match reports, Premiership fixtures previewed, news and football scores - all Premiership, all the time ! Plus Premiership football shirts, betting and more.mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.comBlogger5431100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-22088020298834445232010-04-29T14:58:00.001Z2010-04-29T14:58:00.211Z

Hull City have been forced to issue a denial after rumours circulated that the club was preparing for administration.A statement released by the club read:“The main focus at this point in time is on the remaining two fixtures of the current season in order to try to secure an 18th-place finish, and to continue business [...] http://bit.ly/ahxe1U

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-72335273627305068162010-04-29T13:41:00.001Z2010-04-29T13:41:05.088Z

West Ham owners David Gold and David Sullivan have promised an almost complete clearout of their playing staff in the summer.Sullivan has said they will listen to offers for any of their playing staff, including England internationals Rob Green, Carlton Cole and Matt Upson,  except for midfielder Scott Parker.Sullivan was quoted as saying:“If we get [...] http://bit.ly/btFHd2

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-48167966333211379912010-04-29T13:40:00.003Z2010-04-29T13:40:59.349Z

There are lots of rumours in the tabloids today about clubs having a massive clear out of players at the end of the season.Among those mentioned are Manchester City - apparently manager Roberto Mancini doesn’t fancy Stephen Ireland, Martin Petrov, Wayne Bridge, Shaun Wright-Phillips and even, if The Sun is to be believed, Emmanuel Adebayor.Yesterday’s [...] http://bit.ly/aOmmtf

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-37843702473811750112010-04-29T13:40:00.001Z2010-04-29T13:40:58.347Z

After Manchester City and Birmingham City failed to reach an agreement to bring back on-loan goalkeeper Joe Hart to Eastlands, it appears that Sunderland’s Marton Fulop will be brought in as goalkeeper on an emergency loan deal.City received permission from the FA to bring in a new goalkeeper after Shay Given was injured during Manchester [...] http://bit.ly/9ciGKp

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-49210531322042149422010-04-29T13:39:00.001Z2010-04-29T13:39:46.912Z

I'll start with a disclaimer. I'm a Tottenham fan and, therefore, have long since known what is becoming apparent to the rest of you. And that is: Ledley King is the best defender in England. Or rather, he should have been, but his chronic knee problems have reduced him to maybe 2nd best defender in England.That's why the report in The Times newspaper suggesting that King will be included in

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-20733832559316452682010-04-26T11:38:00.005Z2010-04-26T11:38:06.723Z

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has won the PFA Player of the Year award, with Aston Villa’s James Milner scooping the young player award.Rooney is quoted as saying:“It’s a great feeling to win the player of the year award because it’s voted for by the players. It’s something I’m really proud of and it’s [...] http://bit.ly/b1vl2y

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-58599061422783489702010-04-26T11:38:00.003Z2010-04-26T11:38:05.032Z

Well, let’s take a quick look at the transfer rumours surrounding that notorious big spender, Arsene Wenger of Arsenal.Yesterday’s Sunday Express ran the unlikely story that Arsenal would be moving to sign Liverpool ‘keeper Jose Reina in the summer. Not that it wouldn’t be a good fit, but that would involve spending money. Oh, and [...] http://bit.ly/aPVruD

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-46892389397310198022010-04-26T11:38:00.001Z2010-04-26T11:38:03.341Z

Hull City midfielder, George Boateng has hit out at former manager Phil Brown, saying he felt “disrespected” and that Brown made “essential errors”.Boateng, whose Hull side was relegated at the weekend, had this to say:” “I was left out for so many weeks, and that doesn’t just count for me, it counts for Craig Fagan, [...] http://bit.ly/bBcvIc

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-73623019134387114832010-04-26T11:36:00.001Z2010-04-26T11:36:25.114Z

I have to confess that, unlike many Englishmen, I have a lot of time for Michel Platini. He talks a lot of sense about the game and his plans to try to bring some fiscal responsibility to how clubs are run is in the genuine interests of the game in the long run.However, if I was French, I would be rather annoyed with Monsieur Platini right now. Why?Well, because Platini has had the temerity to

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-28831410385337358072010-04-25T10:37:00.005Z2010-04-25T10:37:27.003Z

John Terry is suspended for Chelsea and will be replaced by Bratislav Ivanovic in central defence.The fit again Ashley Cole could replace Yuri Zhirkov at left back and - with both Michael Essien and Jon Mikel Obi out - Michael Ballack will return to the centre of midfield.Deco is also likely to start for Carlo [...] http://bit.ly/cVEGXX

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-8968923578965173202010-04-25T10:37:00.003Z2010-04-25T10:37:26.269Z

Bobby Zamora is missing for Roy Hodgson’s Fulham, while Everton’s Johnny Heitinga could be out for the remainder of the season.Heitinga has a fractured ankle and it is extremely unlikely he will be risked in any of the last three matches of the season.Nigerian striker Yakubu is pushing for a start, after scoring one and [...] http://bit.ly/dBwlTM

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-36829366060811056992010-04-25T10:37:00.001Z2010-04-25T10:37:25.375Z

Davig Ngog is a doubt for Rafa Benitez’ Liverpool, while Burnley defender Clarke Carlisle has an ankle problem and may not feature.Carlisle is the only doubt for Brian Laws’ relegation threatened Burnley squad.Striker David Nugent is fit again and could start in tandem with Steve Fletcher upfront for Burnley. Veteran Robbie Blake is once again [...] http://bit.ly/9L0LcQ

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-11404013240475945552010-04-25T09:38:00.001Z2010-04-25T09:38:06.145Z

Defenders Richard Dunne and Stephen Warnock are back in contention for Aston Villa, while Birmingham City have strikers James McFadden and Cameron Jerome back to full fitness.Jerome had been playing with a back problem, but seems to have overcome this, while McFadden has shaken off the groin strain he picked up against Hull last time [...] http://bit.ly/bPCjLE

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-61693828529100583422010-04-24T09:36:00.001Z2010-04-24T09:36:23.119Z

Totally unbiased and only coincidentally German, a man called Metin Tolan has devised a formula proving that Germany will win the 2010 World Cup Final. The other 31 teams shouldn't even bother to turn up.Tolan, who is a physics professor so surely should know better, explained his formula thus:"The last time we won the World Cup was back in 1990 and there have been four tournaments since. The

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-23789728889901477462010-04-24T05:37:00.003Z2010-04-24T05:37:48.096Z

Arsenal have Alex Song and Eduardo back in contention, while Manchester City are hopeful that Micah Richards will be fit enough to play some part.Richards has a toe injury, but will face a late fitness test. If fit, he will be on the bench, with Nedum Onuoha preferred at right back.Ex-Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor is [...] http://bit.ly/cJkSAz

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-25269780243679179712010-04-24T05:37:00.001Z2010-04-24T05:37:47.802Z

There’s a few enticing bets for this weekend’s Premiership action, starting with Sunderland away at Hull City.HULL CITY v SUNDERLAND BETTING TIPS : SAT APR 24 15:00 GMTLet’s face it, Hull City are awful. They’re awful at home and they’re awful away. They have no firepower and a porous defence that has leaked 72 goals [...] http://bit.ly/a0iih6

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-20110792078198916072010-04-24T04:37:00.001Z2010-04-24T04:37:45.925Z

Wolves midfielder Matt Jarvis faces a late fitness test on a thigh strain ahead of the visit of Sam Allardyce’s Blackburn Rovers side.Jarvis suffered the injury in the draw at Fulham, but Wolves boss Mick McCarthy remains optimistic that the player will be fit.Definitely out for McCarthy’s side, however, is Karl Henry, who is suspended.McCarthy [...] http://bit.ly/bda1Ng

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-26469859169308289882010-04-23T15:37:00.001Z2010-04-23T15:37:42.011Z

West Ham United have Scott Parker back from suspension while Wigan Athletic defender Gary Caldwell is also in contention, having served a three match ban of his own.Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez has no new injury concerns and after the 3-2 victory over Arsenal, may opt to keep faith with the same team that achieved [...] http://bit.ly/9MuKnP

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-18907262958548880312010-04-23T14:38:00.003Z2010-04-23T14:38:22.623Z

Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink will be missing for Hull City with a head injury, while Sunderland are without centre half John Mensah.Mensah suffered a hamstring injury in Sunderland’s last match and is likely to be replaced by Anton Ferdinand.Lorik Cana comes back into contention after a groin strain, but fellow midfielder Lee Cattermole is definitely [...] http://bit.ly/bgsraN

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-62116820224702447022010-04-23T14:38:00.001Z2010-04-23T14:38:22.104Z

On loan Manchester City midfielder Vladimir Weiss will start for Owen Coyle’s Bolton Wanderers, while Portsmouth have no new injury concerns.Pompey manager Avram Grant has been changing his squads regularly of late in order to keep players fresh for the FA Cup Final.With Aruna Dindane ineligible to play in the league, Frederic Piquionne is likely [...] http://bit.ly/a1cAtk

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-51515616000441710512010-04-23T13:37:00.001Z2010-04-23T13:37:28.769Z

Rio Ferdinand should return for Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United, while Spurs welcome Aaron Lennon back into the squad.Lennon has been out for a number of months with a groin problem and is expected to be named among the substitutes for this match with Utd.Also back in contention is Jermaine Jenas, who completed 45 minutes [...] http://bit.ly/czrdsZ

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-35846109850046832662010-04-22T11:37:00.001Z2010-04-22T11:37:58.506Z

Tottenham Hotspur have clarified the circumstances surrounding the £1m they claim to be owed for the transfer of Asmir Begovic.In Portsmouth’s statement of finances, released yesterday, it was revealed that Spurs were claiming £1m from the club relating to the Begovic transfer, despite the fact that the deal to bring him to White Hart Lane [...] http://bit.ly/90Bp5B

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-57900031107617386872010-04-22T11:36:00.001Z2010-04-22T11:36:23.152Z

That bastian of American corporate culture, Coca-Cola are launching a bunch of ridiculous promotions ahead of the 2010 World Cup Finals.My personal favourite, though, has to be the limited edition Coca Cola cans featuring, and I think you're gonna like this, members of the France football squad.Like who, you ask? Well, I'm glad you asked that because among others, there's Franck Ribery, Sidney

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-19200422952938864312010-04-22T10:37:00.003Z2010-04-22T10:37:49.509Z

Wigan midfielder Charles N’Zogbia has been arrested by Greater Manchester police after allegations that he had a friend take his driving theory test in his place.N’Zogbia was arrested for ‘false representation’ at a driving test centre in Sale and has been released on Police bail.Wigan boss Roberto Martinez commented, saying:“The way I see the whole [...] http://bit.ly/9Z42rx

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-76301405451434869182010-04-22T10:37:00.001Z2010-04-22T10:37:48.368Z

Merseyside Police are investigating Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini after an allegation of assault against a young model in a London nightclub.22 year old Fellaini denies the charge and Everton Football Club commented:“We are aware of the allegations. It is now subject to a police investigation and we will not be saying anything until [...] http://bit.ly/doQSvE

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-66900772568495651132010-04-20T16:36:00.001Z2010-04-20T16:36:40.269Z

I usually try to keep this blog fairly wry and lighthearted, but occasionally I have to blog about something more serious.And it doesn't come much more serious than allegations that Franck Ribery and a number of other French internationals have been sleeping with underage hookers.The allegation is that Ribery, Sidney Govou, along with Karim Benzema and Hatem Ben Arfa all had what are http://

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-28521880020376210482010-04-20T14:38:00.003Z2010-04-20T14:38:08.923Z

Former Blackburn Rovers and Tottenham midfielder, Tim Sherwood, has been appointed to the role of technical co-ordinator. Sherwood had previously worked as a part-time first team coach.Sherwood’s new position will see him co-ordinate player development across all the club’s squads, including supervising and monitoring  loan placements, technical coaching and physical improvement.Speaking on the

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-63445030415295289302010-04-20T14:38:00.001Z2010-04-20T14:38:03.544Z

After weeks of wrangling, Lens, the parent club of on-loan Portsmouth forward Aruna Dindane, have given their permission for the player to feature in the FA Cup Final.The original agreement between Lens and Portsmouth meant that if Dindane played one further game, it would trigger a £4m permanent deal between the two clubs.However, Portsmouth, who [...] http://bit.ly/bxWsIT

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-38793414993421895792010-04-19T13:38:00.005Z2010-04-19T13:38:24.270Z

Liverpool will be without striker Fernando Torres, while Gianfranco Zola’s West Ham Scott Parker is suspended.Parker misses this match as he is in the process of completing a two match ban. His place will be taken by Radoslav Kovac.Upfront, Carlton Cole is likely to be partnered by Brazilian striker Ilan after some impressive recent performances. [...] http://bit.ly/cjy9qe

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-16213045686844805932010-04-19T13:38:00.003Z2010-04-19T13:38:23.961Z

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery.A spokesperson for Liverpool FC confirmed that Torres would be missing for at least six weeks, commenting:“Fernando saw a specialist in Spain earlier today and it was decided that he would need surgery on a torn cartilage [...] http://bit.ly/ccBEv0

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-5829157689629955902010-04-19T13:38:00.001Z2010-04-19T13:38:22.243Z

Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta has apologised to Blackburn Rovers Morten Gamst Pedersen after the Everton player appeared to poke the Rovers left winger in the eye.Arteta, who has recently returned from a long injury absence, was reportedly irritated by a number of bad challenges by Pedersen.Arteta commented:“I probably shouldn’t have reacted like I did but [...] http://bit.ly/dbJC42

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-65548089966151988982010-04-18T10:37:00.003Z2010-04-18T10:37:34.757Z

Portsmouth have a number of absentees for the visit of Aston Villa to Fratton Park.Aruna Dindane is unavailable for selection due to contractual problems with parent club, Lens. Also out are Hassan Yebda (knee), Kevin Prince Boateng (ankle), Nadir Belhadj (thigh) and Papa Bouba Diop, who has a knee injury.Also sidelined is on loan Spurs [...] http://bit.ly/aH6cms

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-29425507816888232312010-04-18T10:37:00.001Z2010-04-18T10:37:33.575Z

Wigan have no new injury worries ahead of the visit of an Arsenal side who welcome Robin Van Persie back into the starting line-up.Van Persie made a brief substitute appearance against Spurs in midweek, but this could be his first start after a five month lay-off. Van Persie could replaced Nicklas Bendtner in the starting [...] http://bit.ly/ba7hD3

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-1671567625959404742010-04-17T14:36:00.001Z2010-04-17T14:36:28.871Z

Judging by Germany 2006 and, well, pretty much every other major tournament, the England football team are, um, not very good at penalties. David Batty, Gareth Southgate and Stuart Pearce are all testimony to that fact.So the England team need all the help they can get if it comes down to sudden death at the World Cup 2010.Luckily some sports psychologists with rather too much time on their hands

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-71589863021452225362010-04-16T17:37:00.001Z2010-04-16T17:37:42.840Z

Tottenham’s Niko Kranjcar will miss the remainder of the season with an ankle injury, but Chelsea left back Ashley Cole is back in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.Cole, who has been missing through injury since February, will be on the substitutes bench with Yuri Zhirkov the most likely starter at left back for Chelsea.Still out for the [...] http://bit.ly/aGNKFH

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-85011626497723672592010-04-16T14:38:00.003Z2010-04-16T14:38:24.048Z

Tony Pulis’ Stoke City side have a number of injury worries ahead of the visit by Owen Coyle’s Bolton Wanderers.Matthew Etherington and Ricardo Fuller both face late fitness tests, while Ryan Shawcross and striker Mamady Sidibe are definitely sidelined.Coming back into contention is James Beattie, who has finally overcome the knee injury that has kept [...] http://bit.ly/bOQecd

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-10604969181906649582010-04-16T14:38:00.001Z2010-04-16T14:38:09.932Z

Sunderland will be without influential midfielder Lee Cattermole, while Burnley manager Brian Laws could name an unchanged side at the Stadium of Light.After defeating Hull City 4-1 last time out, Laws is set to keep faith with his starting eleven. This means Steven Caldwell, Andrey Bikey and Robbie Blake will all have to be content [...] http://bit.ly/bowQox

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-38205539073081925862010-04-16T13:37:00.003Z2010-04-16T13:37:20.137Z

Defender John Pantsil is back from a knee injury and could start for Roy Hodgson’s Fulham.However, forward Clint Dempsey and winger Simon Davies picked up knocks in Fulham’s last Premier League match and both face late fitness tests. Jonathan Greening and Erik Nevland are the most likely replacements.Better news is that, despite a niggling achilles [...] http://bit.ly/adiELG

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-53270822337226061502010-04-16T13:37:00.001Z2010-04-16T13:37:19.289Z

Chris Samba is rated doubtful for Blackburn Rovers, while Everton’s Johnny Heitinga is facing a late fitness test ahead of this match.Heitinga suffered a foot injury in the midweek draw with Aston Villa and manager David Moyes will give the Dutchman until the last possible moment to prove his fitness.Definitely out for Everton, however, are [...] http://bit.ly/9JH1Bn

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-50832166470430123502010-04-16T12:37:00.005Z2010-04-16T12:37:43.674Z

Goalkeeper Joe Hart returns for Birmingham City, while Iain Dowie’s Hull City have a number of injuries to contend with.Winger Stephen Hunt is the latest addition to those players that will be out for the remainder of the season. The Ireland international has a foot injury and has recently undergone surgery.Also out for Hull are [...] http://bit.ly/bpVDeP

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-16350367310955998932010-04-16T12:37:00.003Z2010-04-16T12:37:42.604Z

Manchester City welcome back a number of key players ahead of the visit of Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United to the City of Manchester Stadium.Among those in contention is left back Wayne Bridge, who has recovered from a hernia operation; Stephen Ireland who has overcome an ankle injury and Patrick Vieira, who is fit again [...] http://bit.ly/auGQRT

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-42084753013441542422010-04-16T12:37:00.001Z2010-04-16T12:37:41.429Z

Liverpool’s American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have put the club up for sale after admitting it would require new owners to take the club to the “next level”.The duo, whose own working relationship was difficult, have appointed businessman Martin Broughton, the deputy president of the Confederation of British Industry, as Liverpool chairman [...] http://bit.ly/dgKg9c

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-73315323318772026682010-04-15T15:38:00.003Z2010-04-15T15:38:11.542Z

Investment bank Seymour Pierce are threatening to seize control of Birmingham City FC unless £2.2million in fees that are owed by Carson Yeung’s company are paid by May 27th.The fees relate to advisory work that Seymour Pierce undertook in the early stages of Yeung’s takeover of Birmingham City.Spokesman Neil Bennett is quoted as saying:“Seymour Pierce [...] http://bit.ly/dne3K2

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-42243192384457042442010-04-15T15:38:00.001Z2010-04-15T15:38:10.342Z

The PFA Player of the Year nominees list has been announced, with Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney installed as favourite.The list also includes Carlos Tevez, Didier Drogba and Cesc Fabregas while both Rooney and Fabregas are on the Young Player of the Year list alongside Joe Hart and James Milner.Should Rooney win the main prize, he [...] http://bit.ly/cQon5y

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-27449507675477781492010-04-14T13:38:00.003Z2010-04-14T13:38:01.297Z

Emmerson Boyce returns for Roberto Martinez’ Wigan Athletic, while Portsmouth boss Avram Grant has a number of niggling injuries to contend with.Doubtful for Portsmouth are Kevin Prince Boateng and Hassan Yebda, who both have ankle injuries, Nadir Belhadj, who has a knee problem and Tommy Smith, who has a broken nose.Back, however, is defender Anthony [...] http://bit.ly/cLuEZu

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-57844545589403885732010-04-14T13:38:00.001Z2010-04-14T13:38:00.108Z

Despite Richard Dunne’s sore achilles, Aston Villa boss Martin O’Neil may name an unchanged side from the one that was comprehensively beaten by Chelsea last time out.This would mean another start for Norwegian John Carew in place of England striker Emile Heskey, who will be on the bench.Everton will be missing influential midfielder, Mikel Arteta, [...] http://bit.ly/cqpYKJ

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-75861665280420235032010-04-14T13:37:00.001Z2010-04-14T13:37:59.288Z

Ledley King could return for Harry Redknapp’s Tottenham Hotspur, while Robin Van Persie is back for Arsenal.Spurs manager Harry Redknapp does have a number of injury concerns ahead of this derby, with Niko Kranjcar out with an ankle injury, Wilson Palacios suspended and Aaron Lennon still not fit.Palacios could be replaced in the centre of [...] http://bit.ly/9LLI1w

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-78199587536340566712010-04-14T12:36:00.001Z2010-04-14T12:36:16.937Z

Despite Fabio Capello banning England from recording an official World Cup song (for which, I for, thank him deeply), the tradition of the World Cup song is alive and well.Just check out the prosaicly titled World Cup Song website, which has a bunch of unofficial World Cup songs. View at your own risk, though, as some of them, are, well, shall we say, crap!However, there are some gems - http://

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-24063066977773439022010-04-13T13:37:00.003Z2010-04-13T13:37:46.705Z

Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez has questioned the training techniques used by boss Roberto Mancini.Speaking to the Daily Mail, Tevez believes that Mancini’s twice per day training sessions are too much towards the end of the season.Tevez is quoted as saying:“The players are not happy with this. We are at the end of a [...] http://bit.ly/aL8azE

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-12265396557836131732010-04-13T13:37:00.001Z2010-04-13T13:37:45.501Z

Chelsea duo Joe Cole and Deco are being rested for tonight’s visit of Bolton Wanderers to Stamford Bridge.Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti has stated that Michael Ballack and Salomon Kalou will start in their place.Back in contention is defender Branislav Ivanovic who will return to the right back position after overcoming a knee injury.Still out, however, [...] http://bit.ly/ccGJ8N

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-58026276116286329532010-04-12T18:38:00.001Z2010-04-12T18:38:04.723Z

Togo and Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor has announced his retirement from international football.The decision has come in the aftermath of the attack on the Togo team bus at the 2010 African Cup of Nations.Adebayor is quoted on the official Manchester City website, saying:“Following the tragic events during January’s African Cup of Nations, in which [...] http://bit.ly/dgrl31

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-80322088734976080582010-04-12T17:36:00.001Z2010-04-12T17:36:38.302Z

Fabio Capello has proved himself to be a great manager whereever he has been - he's won trophies in Spain and Italy and guided England to comfortable World Cup qualification. His credentials are not in doubt.And part of the reason for his success is not just his ability to mould a squad into winners on the pitch, it's that he takes care of the off the pitch stuff too.More subtle than, say, Sir

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-19515535686891791712010-04-12T12:37:00.003Z2010-04-12T12:37:21.400Z

Portsmouth FC are to appeal to the Football Association in the hope of gaining a license to play in the Europa League next season.Due to the club being in administration, they have not been allowed to apply for the relevant license from UEFA.However, under normal circumstances, Portsmouth would have already qualified for Europe, as their [...] http://bit.ly/9zjvXI

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-67901542372779443822010-04-12T12:37:00.001Z2010-04-12T12:37:20.527Z

Hull City winger Stephen Hunt is to undergo an exploratory foot operation to ascertain the extent of the injury that has kept him out of the side for the last month.Hull boss Iain Dowie commented:“He’s got a sharp pain in his foot again and we need to have a look at it in an [...] http://bit.ly/cC0Nmw

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-65054409739276984002010-04-11T11:37:00.001Z2010-04-11T11:37:25.464Z

Wayne Rooney is missing for Manchester United’s trip to Blackburn Rovers.Rooney is out with an ankle injury that flaired up again during United’s Champions League match with Bayern Munich. Dimitar Berbatov is set to take the England striker’s place upfront.Coming back into contention for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side will be veteran trio Ryan Giggs, Gary [...] http://bit.ly/bvJBCW

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-90087349409681604702010-04-10T10:37:00.001Z2010-04-10T10:37:18.609Z

OK, so it’s not football, but today is the Grand National - the UK’s biggest horse race.For those of you who already have betting accounts and want a deeper insight into the race, you can get Grand National betting tips at our sister site, Gambling-Source.If you are new to betting online and just want a [...] http://bit.ly/9TnCab

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-43844007419117971962010-04-09T15:37:00.001Z2010-04-09T15:37:27.631Z

Valon Behrami has a calf strain and will be missing for Gianfranco Zola’s West Ham United, while Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has a number of injuries to contend with.Aside from Behrami, defender James Tomkins is out with an ankle problem, while Kieron Dyer, Jack Collison, Herita Ilunga and Guillermo Franco are all missing.Brazilian striker Ilan [...] http://bit.ly/bvA2BY

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-16031350161045047232010-04-09T14:37:00.001Z2010-04-09T14:37:59.109Z

Midfielder George Boateng is rated doubtful for the visit of a Burnley side could welcome back captain Steve Caldwell.Caldwell has been missing for over 3 months with groin and abdominal injuries, but has been training this week.However, definitely out for Brian Laws’ Burnley side are Stephen Jordan and Chris McCann, both of whom are suffering [...] http://bit.ly/8XQ7dx

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-81791262143958066122010-04-08T13:38:00.003Z2010-04-08T13:38:18.048Z

The FA have charged Wigan boss Roberto Martinez with improper conduct after comments about referee Stuart Attwell.Martinez accused the referee of “lying” following the sending off of Wigan’s Gary Caldwell for a challenge on Carlos Tevez.Martinez defended Caldwell’s challenge, saying :“Gary said he went in really strong and got the ball. Carlos Tevez saw [...] http://bit.ly/cdgvci

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-63855468985472749312010-04-08T13:38:00.001Z2010-04-08T13:38:16.556Z

Burnley manager Brian Laws has fined midfielder Kevin MacDonald after the player went to the pub having been substituted at half time during Burnley’s 6-1 defeat by Manchester City.The Scotland under 21 international apologised for his behaviour, saying:“I now realise it was naive, disrespectful and totally wrong of me to leave the ground at [...] http://bit.ly/dDu5A5

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-75400830851246565152010-04-07T13:36:00.001Z2010-04-07T13:36:48.065Z

Most pundits, certainly in this country, seem to think that Argentina and Nigeria are the two teams most likely to qualify from Group B . And on the surface, this appears to be a strong possibility. Nigeria have more 'star' names than either Greece or South Korea and have a number of established Premier League players, such as Kanu and Joseph Yobo.However, Nigeria coach Lars Lagerback (owner of

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-59860126578583334352010-04-07T12:37:00.001Z2010-04-07T12:37:15.716Z

Manchester United centre back Nemanja Vidic has spoken out about rumours he wants to leave the club in the summer, saying “I have never said anything about wanting to leave. The speculation has all been generated by other people.”Elsewhere and to be filed in the ‘it’s possible’ category, Tottenham are reported to be seeking [...] http://bit.ly/c1URXX

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-47983356047861290682010-04-06T14:37:00.003Z2010-04-06T14:37:55.678Z

Arsenal midfielder and makeshift centre half, Alex Song, will miss Arsenal’s Champions League match due to a knee injury.The player will miss Arsenal’s game with Barcelona after manager Arsene Wenger revealed:“It was a bad surprise this morning. He had a scan yesterday afternoon on his knee and it is inflamed cartilage. We will have [...] http://bit.ly/9uZy1C

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-82671569593633127702010-04-06T14:37:00.001Z2010-04-06T14:37:53.791Z

There could be light at the end of the tunnel for Portsmouth FC as representatives of a potential investor have begun the process of due diligence.The investor’s representative, Rob Lloyd, interviewed on Sky Sports, commented:“We’ve now decided to go down the NDA - non-disclosure agreement - route, so one has to be very careful [...] http://bit.ly/bdpeGk

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-63546594083330597162010-04-06T14:36:00.001Z2010-04-06T14:36:59.587Z

File this under 'stupid World Cup promotions....part 1,237'. Words simply faily me when I attempt to sum up my feelings on Walkers Crisps 'Flavour Cup' promotion. In fact, because I first read about it in Charlie Brooker's column, I figured it was satire.But no. It's real. Walkers have released 15 new crisp flavours, tied in with 15 football teams. Some of these teams - not so notably, Scotland

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-71682986214264865692010-04-03T11:36:00.001Z2010-04-03T11:36:16.946Z

After it was revealed that Arsenal's William Gallas will be out for the rest of the season, France coach Raymond Domenech revealed (no doubt with typical Gallic elan) that he was "livid and pissed off" with Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger.Wenger had, for reasons best known to himself, chosen to play Gallas against Barcelona despite the player only having had two training sessions since returning from

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-45624664586869098072010-03-31T12:38:00.001Z2010-03-31T12:38:29.422Z

As you all probably know by now, ex-England and Mexico boss Sven Goran Eriksson will be the Ivory Coast manager at World Cup 2010.I, for one, welcome him back with open arms. I always enjoyed his implacable calm, his over use of 'first half good...second half not so good' and his ability to seduce ladies of all nationalities.And, seriously, I think he is a good manager. His reputation has been

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-6114931076572836932010-03-27T14:39:00.001Z2010-03-27T14:39:53.182Z

I came across a piece on CBC Canada that suggested this world cup will won by an individual or individuals with outstanding skills.This may have been written in haste, in reaction to the unbelievable performances put in by Lionel Messi in the past few weeks, I don't know.The thing is: the argument doesn't really stack up. And it appears that the author, Raphael Honigstein (a man who usually talks

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-5048734428102801692010-03-26T18:38:00.001Z2010-03-26T18:38:25.289Z

I don't know about you but I'm becoming very tired that every single news story about South Africa somehow references the 2010 World Cup Finals.To take just one example, there is this piece in The Daily Telegraph which is nominally about township protests that they don't have access to basic services. The focus of the article, however, is on the potential for violence at South Africa 2010 and of

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-84932754667860428342010-03-23T18:39:00.001Z2010-03-23T18:39:38.189Z

The lovely (and multi-lingual) people at Betsson Sports are giving away some fantastic prizes between now and May 9th, including a World Cup Final package worth around €6k.If you don't already bet at Betsson, we suggest you head over there now and register, because in addition to the grand prize, there are weekly prizes totally €1000.To win, all you have to do is place combi bets of 5 euros or

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-26097159696508472982010-03-22T18:38:00.001Z2010-03-22T18:38:02.906Z

Ahead of every World Cup - in fact, ahead of every major sporting event - there are always doom-mongers bleating on about how the host country will never be ready in time, or doesn't have the infrastructure or doesn't have sufficient toilet paper to meet demand or something.So, with out further ado, I present today's gloom and doom predictions for South Africa 2010.The Times is going with http:/

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-85633925499010035872010-03-20T11:38:00.001Z2010-03-20T11:38:12.261Z

We all love football, right? But sometimes, a little bit of perspective is needed.England, as you no doubt know, is competing with Mexico, the USA and other nations, to host the 2018 or 2022 World Cup Finals.Any idea how much such an undertaking might cost the government - or rather us, the taxpayers. Well, this governmental feasability study suggests costs of around £674million pounds. http://

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-69686050139344204852010-03-16T15:39:00.001Z2010-03-16T15:39:28.347Z

It's very easy to fall back into lazy racial stereotypes, particularly when dealing with African nations.However, the fact is that there are still many thousands of people on that continent who believe in the 'old ways' and that includes magic and voodoo.Now, we might very well suspect that host nation South Africa has literally no chance at the 2010 World Cup Finals but luckily they have a http

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-34207705368482481562010-03-13T10:39:00.001Z2010-03-13T10:39:03.212Z

In a display of mind boggling stupidity, the Argentine government is set to allow several hundred well known football hooligans (called the 'Barras Bravas') to travel to the 2010 World Cup Finals.This, apparently, is their reward for openly supporting the incumbent Prime Minister, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner ahead of next year's elections.The justification for this piece of idiocy? It will,

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-67738413253802822382010-03-11T14:40:00.001Z2010-03-11T14:40:50.571Z

Not content with sacking a manager who lost only one match in 24, the Ivory Coast Football Federation seems to be making a bit of a meal of appointing a successor.Yesterday, it appeared that leading candidate Guus Hiddink had been named as manager for the 2010 World Cup campaign, but today it appears that this isn't actually the case. And, in fact, there is quite a way to go in negotiations.You

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-668542561870857502010-03-10T14:39:00.001Z2010-03-10T14:39:33.628Z

Are you a professional footballer? On the fringes of the international squad? Or an old pro who feels he can still 'do a job' for the team?Well, if you are, you might like to take a leaf out of South African defender Nasief Morris' book. Morris fell out with former South Africa coach Joel Santana and has tried to get back into the South Africa squad by begging current manager Carlos Parreira via

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-84063790109570036532010-03-09T15:39:00.001Z2010-03-09T15:39:30.269Z

In a staggering display of pointless-ness, England team sponsor Nationwide have made up the world's largest England football shirt (huh?). And, for reasons that are clear only to their marketing department, they took it down to Portsmouth and displayed it on the flight deck of HMS Kent.I'm sure you'll be thrilled to know that they will be showing the shirt (signed by England legends like Peter

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-67099038432518380292010-03-08T11:38:00.001Z2010-03-08T11:38:35.744Z

Fabio Capello's England breezed through qualification with a host of genuinely world class players - Rooney, Terry, Gerrard - but now, three months ahead of the finals, the wheels have well and truly come off the England train.Firstly, even when David James is fully fit, England have no truly world class goalkeeper - Robert Green is a pretty solid 'keeper with, crucially, a good record at saving

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-69602596954943050662010-02-27T19:38:00.001Z2010-02-27T19:38:16.578Z

Traditionally, it was the job of the Netherlands to self-destruct at major tournaments as egos, bickering and weak management got in the way of the actual football. Although, to be fair, Spain have been pretty good at this kind of thing too.So, it's nice to see that the 'home of football' - England - are taking this one step further ahead of the 2010 World Cup Final. England have chosen to http:

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-14048810171467027962010-02-24T12:38:00.001Z2010-02-24T12:38:51.665Z

I'm English and unsurprisingly, want England to win the 2010 World Cup. I do, however, understand that there are other nationalities out there who may not share my view. I don't hate them for it - they're patriotic, I'm patriotic. We all want our national side to win.Which is why I doubt anyone would be offended by the Slanj Kilt company selling t-shirts with the slogan 'ABE : Anyone But England

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-40757867604083580502010-02-21T14:38:00.001Z2010-02-21T14:38:36.071Z

Regular readers of this blog know that I'm a big fan of Guus Hiddink. Mainly, because I've always backed his teams with cold hard cash and until Russia's failure to qualify for World Cup 2010, he has never let me down.Indeed, I decided against starting at Euro 2008 blog because I was so confident that England weren't going to qualify because they were in the same group as Hiddink's Russia and the

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-17570812711844488002010-02-13T13:38:00.001Z2010-02-13T13:38:15.232Z

How would you like to be at the 2010 World Cup Final in South Africa - with all expenses paid. Of course, you would. So now, in partnership with Windows Casino, you can win two VIP tickets to the World Cup Final.The first prize is:2 VIP Tickets to the 2010 Football Final in Johannesburg, South Africa on 11th of July 2010Hospitality Package for the Match Welcome Gift Drink Reception 4

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-35084886529410930892010-02-12T19:38:00.001Z2010-02-12T19:38:55.727Z

2010WorldCupOnline wants to know why two South American countries seem to be playing in North America.It's a good point. The answer, of course, is for the same reason that Australia has moved to Asia and Israel to Europe. Football, it's the world game, but just not the world as we know it. Maybe it's the world as FIFA president Sepp Blatter wants it to be.And speaking of the always, er, http://

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-37070169362574358692010-02-11T21:38:00.001Z2010-02-11T21:38:21.782Z

Let's face it, Russia's failure to make the World Cup 2010 - mainly, I feel, due to complacency on the part of the players - was a surprise. Most of all to me.I've always backed sides managed by Guus Hiddink to do well and, frankly, he's made me a lot of money down the years by always coming through when I've bet on his teams.His management of South Korea ahead of the 2002 World Cup Finals was a

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-69116058642723804742010-02-11T20:40:00.007Z2010-02-11T20:40:40.863Z

Now is your chance to win two World Cup 2010 Final Tickets, including flights, hotels, meals and VIP hospitality.Our good friends at Windows Online Casino are offering this fantastic prize to new and old players alike and everyone has a chance to win.SO WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO TO WIN ? - Feb [...] http://bit.ly/96zB99

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-85511974625272388942010-02-11T20:40:00.005Z2010-02-11T20:40:39.314Z

Ashley Cole suffered a fractured ankle in Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat to Everton and will be out for as much as three months.This will rule him out for the remainder of the season and puts his place in the England world cup squad in doubt.A Chelsea spokesman is quoted as saying:“Ashley suffered a fracture to his [...] http://bit.ly/bONkgk

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-5094492496783018792010-02-11T20:40:00.003Z2010-02-11T20:40:38.109Z

Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs will be out for a month after fracturing his arm during United’s 1-1 draw at Aston Villa.Although United boss Alex Ferguson was initially optimistic about the injury, a scan has revealed the player has fractured his arm and will certainly miss the Champions League clash with AC MIlan as well [...] http://bit.ly/c02wlj

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-69242921705204358262010-02-11T20:40:00.001Z2010-02-11T20:40:36.600Z

Former Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp and ex-Pompey chairman Milan Mandaric appeared in court on Thursday on charges of tax evasion.Both men are charged with two counts of cheating the public revenue relating to transfer dealings that took place when both were at Portsmouth FC.Judge Timothy Workman, at the CIty of Westminster Magistrates Court, gave both [...] http://bit.ly/a2ORCR

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-22450937527485156642010-02-10T15:38:00.001Z2010-02-10T15:38:45.723Z

A few things have caught my attention today, but nothing especially worth a full post, so instead I present you with some random thoughts on today's World Cup news stories.Apparently Wigan boss Roberto Martinez has GUARANTEED that 'keeper Chris Kirkland will be in the England squad for South Africa 2010. Martinez said, I quote, "After working with him I can guarantee 100 per cent that he will be

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-33059347753854815692010-02-09T16:40:00.001Z2010-02-09T16:40:23.928Z

Fulham have a number of injuries to key players ahead of the visit of a Burnley side who welcome Stephen Jordan back from injury.Although Fulham forward Bobby Zamora has returned from illness, boss Roy Hodgson is missing Andrew Johnson, Clint Dempsey, Paul Konchesky and John Pantsil.Worse still, midfielder Kagisho Dikgacoi will be missing for up [...] http://bit.ly/cn3IWz

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-39379060613897340332010-02-09T15:40:00.005Z2010-02-09T15:40:46.825Z

Stoke City could have Abdoulaye Faye returning from a back injury, while Wigan Athletic have no new injury problems.Wigan boss Roberto Martinez will have to decide whether to start with recent signings Victor Moses and Marcelo Moreno, although it looks more likely that the pair will once again be on the bench.Martinez will keep [...] http://bit.ly/d7iFzn

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-5875624108922525662010-02-09T15:40:00.003Z2010-02-09T15:40:39.553Z

Portsmouth have a number of injury concerns ahead of the visit of Steve Bruce’s underperforming Sunderland side.Pompey midfielder Kevin Prince-Boateng suffered an ankle injury at the weekend and is rated very doubtful, as is right back Anthony Vanden Borre, who picked up an injury during the same match.Angelos Basinas could come in to replace Prince-Boateng, [...] http://bit.ly/d6lTlr

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-68870589264360959642010-02-09T15:40:00.001Z2010-02-09T15:40:38.137Z

Forward Craig Bellamy is missing for Roberto Mancini’s Manchester City side against a Bolton team who are without defender Gary Cahill.Cahill has a blood clot in his arm and is ruled out for the remainder of the season. Veteran Andy O’Brien looks set to take his place in central defence.Still out for Owen Coyle’s Bolton [...] http://bit.ly/9zzo0Z

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-81598891867523832472010-02-08T15:38:00.001Z2010-02-08T15:38:40.320Z

If you remember the 2006 World Cup, you may recall that relations between then coach Jurgen Klinsmann and the German Football Association were frosty, to say the least. In fact, despite leading Germany to third place in the Finals, Klinsmann choose not to renew his contract and he walked away.Well, it appears that history is repeating itself. The DFB (German Football Association) have apparently

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-39848278024252435202010-02-07T14:39:00.001Z2010-02-07T14:39:28.566Z

The transfer window has only shut for a week, but still there are endless and increasingly unlikely transfer rumours doing the rounds.How about this from The People: Juventus apparently want to sign Spurs left back Gareth Bale. And they are prepared to pay up to £13million for the player. Yeah, that’s what I thought, too!The [...] http://bit.ly/aC1jb0

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-47452568939259442022010-02-07T13:39:00.001Z2010-02-07T13:39:09.143Z

A Blackburn Rovers fan who was found with head injuries and in cardiac arrest after Saturday’s match with Stoke City died in hospital on Sunday morning.A spokesman for Staffordshire Police released a statement saying: “A 30-year-old man was pronounced dead at 1.55am this morning at University Hospital North Staffordshire.”“The circumstances are being fully investigated and [...] http://bit.ly/

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-7627984558736755652010-02-07T13:38:00.001Z2010-02-07T13:38:05.459Z

I think, barring injuries and one or two uncertainties - like the fitness of Owen Hargreaves - most of us can pretty much predict the entire England 2010 World Cup squad right now.And, to be honest, it's a squad that looks a little weak in terms of breadth and depth. After the first 11, there aren't too many truly top class players. Wayne Bridge, Peter Crouch - these are good Premier League http

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-34708664402009222302010-02-06T18:39:00.003Z2010-02-06T18:39:18.483Z

Ashley Cole looks set to return for Chelsea to face his old side at Stamford Bridge.Yuri Zhirkov replaced Cole for the midweek match against Hull, but the England international looks set to start against Arsenal.Out, however, are Juliano Belletti and Jose Bosingwa, both of whom have knee injuries, and Michael Essien, who is yet to [...] http://bit.ly/aQcJFX

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-51121540386064556702010-02-06T18:39:00.001Z2010-02-06T18:39:17.321Z

Kevin Doyle is back in contention for Mick McCarthy’s Wolves, while veteran striker Kevin Phillips is fit again for Birmingham City.Phillips has overcome a groin injury and will be included in the squad as a substitute, with Cameron Jerome and Christian Benitez manager Alex McLeish’s preferred striking partnership.New Birmingham acquisitions Michel and Craig Gardner will [...] http://bit.ly/9mHCsK

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29755018.post-6098475137202606262010-02-05T20:38:00.001Z2010-02-05T20:38:26.833Z

I'm going to keep this extremely short, but John Terry lost the England captaincy today. It's probably down the back of the sofa along with his sense of decency and his inability to not be a prat. http://bit.ly/dgBqGa

mark_shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12943304823090212030noreply@blogger.com0