http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/jun19c.html
Lamps 'agrees Inter switch'
England international Frank Lampard has reportedly agreed to leave Chelsea for Inter, leaving the two sides to come to an agreement.Inter President Massimo Moratti is looking to make three big swoops to strengthen the squad on the behalf of new boss Jose Mourinho.And Mourinho seems to have set his heart upon a reunion with Lampard, who was one of his key men at Stamford Bridge.While Chelsea have tried to discourage the former West Ham man from emigrating, he reportedly sees this as a great chance for a fresh start and has been lured by assurances that he can remain living in England while wearing the Nerazzurri shirt.The arrival of World Cup winning tactician Luiz Felipe Scolari doesn’t seem to have changed Lampard’s mind and it is believed that he has officially accepted a transfer.The two clubs are still to find a concrete agreement, but there are rumours that they will shake hands on a £14m deal.“I’m not a nostalgic person,” Mourinho said when asked for his view on the speculation.“But I recognise the players who have helped me win and I would never say no to signing Deco, Lampard or Didier Drogba. I’d like to work with them again, but it’s not an obsession.”
Are Chelsea going to snap up Andrei Arshavin?
http://www.thespoiler.co.uk/index.php/2008/06/23/are-chelsea-going-to-snap-up-andrei-arshavin
Thus far in the closed season, the papers have been doing a sterling job of filling the back pages with half-truths and rumour. Throughout Euro 2008, the dailies have adhered to the following strict formula: (1) spot a player who is playing very well, then (2) link him with Chelsea. Today, it’s the turn of Russia’s soup du jour…Andrei Arshavin to ChelseaThe logic is clear: Abramovich is close to the Russia squad, Arshavin has impressed at Euro 2008 and Scolari has a “blank chequebook.” So why is it only The Daily Star that have picked up on it?
The Spoiler Truth-o-meter: Strong possibility
Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid
So the big transfer story of the weekend is the one that’s already been dragging on for weeks. Scolari has said Ronaldo will leave, Zidane has urged Madrid to break their transfer record and Ronaldo is expected to make another statement asking to go.
The Spoiler Truth-o-meter: Just sell him already!
Darren Bent to Everton
The newspapers have decided to take a well-earned break from linking the Spurs flop with West Ham, Sunderland and Celtic, and have decided that Everton are now the favourites to sign him up.
The Spoiler Truth-o-meter: A step up?
Louis Saha to Bolton
Gary Megson is finally admitting defeat in his attempts to replace Anelka with Rasiak and will make amends by bringing in the oft-injured Saha from nearby Old Trafford.
The Spoiler Truth-o-meter: Would he fit their style of play?
Jacques Santini to Hearts
That French midfielder who couldn’t cut it at White Hart Lane and left after five minutes is now convinced Hearts, where the owner picks the players then fires the manager if they lose, is the club for him.
The Spoiler Truth-o-meter: Expect him to be gone by Christmas
David Villa to Tottenham
Spurs are after the top scorer at Euro 2008 - and a reported transfer target of Chelsea, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Barcelona. They may have snared Modric and dos Santos, but this must be one great player too far.
The Spoiler Truth-o-meter: Podolski is a more realistic target
Eto'o To Barça: Don't Push Me
Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o will announce on his own time of choosing whether he intends to leave Barcelona for another top European side.
New Barcelona boss Josep Guardiola has made it entirely clear that the Cameroon international is free to leave during the summer months, but in his latest comments Eto'o, who is reported to be a target of Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham and both Milan clubs, still seems to be leaving the door open to a future at the Champ Nou. "I have spent four years with Barcelona. The first two years I won everything with the club and the last two have been difficult seasons when I was injured," Eto'o explained in an interview with fifa.com."Now I am looking for possibilities - at some point I will take a decision either to look for another club or stay in Barcelona.""I don't have much to prove with Barcelona. I know I am still marketable and this summer we will meet with the club officials to ensure that I am not pushed." Goal.com
Spanish interest for Chelsea Star Michael Essien
http://soccerglobe.net/2008/04/22/spanish-interest-for-chelsea-star-michael-essien/
Real Madrid want to sign Michael Essien to replace Mahamadou Diarrá and have already let Chelsea and the player’s agent know of their interest about a possible big money move in the summer.Predrag Mijatovic approached Peter Kenyon, when he travelled to London to watch the Blues play Fenerbahçe, about the Ghanaian international [...]
Real Madrid want to sign Michael Essien to replace Mahamadou Diarrá and have already let Chelsea and the player’s agent know of their interest about a possible big money move in the summer.
Predrag Mijatovic approached Peter Kenyon, when he travelled to London to watch the Blues play Fenerbahçe, about the Ghanaian international and was quoted a price of €35m.
That is €10m more than Madrid were preparing to go with, but the sale of Diarrá may see the Spanish giants counter with a bid of €30m
According to reports, the former Lyon midfielder is keen to leave Stamford Bridge following the departure of José Mourinho and has been weighing up where his next move would be.
Diarra looks certain to leave Madrid as his agent agent, Frederic Guerra, revealed that after Barcelona visit the Bernabéu on May 7, the club should be willing to talk about a transfer..
"We will have to see what happens after Madrid play Barcelona," he said. "After that we will know more clearly what could happen. Diarrá is not happy at Madrid because he is not playing very much. It is a worrying situation."
Bernd Schuster is also said to have told Mijatovic that Essien would be a very welcome addition to the squad as he has never been a big fan of Diará and wants a new defensive midfielder.
German midfielder to hook up with Ballack at Chelsea?
Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has made claims that he could leave Bayern Munich this summer and make his way to the Premiership. The 23-year-old winger has been at Bayern ever since making his debut at the tender age of 18.
He is just moving into the last year of his contract at the Allianz Arena, but incoming manager Jurgen Klinsmann is keep to tie him down to a longer deal. Yet Schweinsteiger has made moves to open up a move to the Premiership:
I may stay with Bayern and the coach has promised to be supportive of whatever decision I make.
England does have a good appeal as it is one of the world’s best leagues
I’ve always wanted to play there and we’ll see if it happens this year.
Schweinsteiger’s comments will alert Premiership clubs who will already have seen the best and worse of the German as he scored the opening goal against Portugal, but was also sent-off in the defeat to Croatia. Names to have been mentioned include Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City and Newcastle, yet his destination remains to be seen.
Chelsea - Deco or Arshavin?
http://www.chelsea.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=507391
It hasn`t taken long for a leading tabloid to link the exciting Russian play-maker, Andrei Arshavin to Chelsea.Already it is being claimed that Roman Abramovich is keen to make the move happen.A series of impressive displays, at Euro 2008, have brought Arshavin to the attention of the top Premier League clubs.However, whilst it is being reported that Abramovich sees his fellow Russian as someone who can bring flair to the side he may face competition from Luiz Felipe Scolari whose primary target remains Barcelona`s thirty year old player, Deco.Nevertheless, in a startling revelation, the tabloid suggests that it is Abramovich who is calling the shots making it clear to Scolari that he favours the younger Arshavin over Deco, reputedly telling him to forget about Deco!This fact though is contradicted by another leading tabloid which suggests Scolari will get his target, Deco, with a £12 million deal being agreed and finalised later this week, a deal that will see the Brazilian born midfielder link up with Scolari again, this time at club level.A source close to the deal said"It`s just a matter of time to conclude the affair and it should be before the end of this week."So, it`s Arshavin for Abramovich and Deco for Scolari. Your thoughts please!
Sheva U-turn on the cards
http://soccerglobe.net/2007/05/30/sheva-u-turn-on-the-cards/
AC Milan are trying to figure out a deal with Chelsea for Andriy Shevchenko.Milan are hoping to see the striker back in San siro.
The troubled £30million striker was in Milan yesterday with his wife Kristen, who has been hankering for a return to Italy.Milan want Sheva on a loan deal, similar to the one they [...]
AC Milan are trying to figure out a deal with Chelsea for Andriy Shevchenko.Milan are hoping to see the striker back in San siro.The troubled £30million striker was in Milan yesterday with his wife Kristen, who has been hankering for a return to Italy.
Milan want Sheva on a loan deal, similar to the one they struck with Chelsea for Argentine striker Hernan Crespo two seasons ago.
Crespo, playing up front with Shevchenko, went on to shoot the club to the brink of the Champions League before they were beaten on penalties in the final by Liverpool.
Milan president Adriano Galliani said yesterday: “With the right conditions, as we have said for weeks, we are ready to buy Shevchenko back.” The Shevchenkos saw friends and were also spotted out shopping before heading to the Ukraine for Saturday’s match against France.
Galliani has long insisted the doors of the club are “wide open” for the Champions League top scorer who has been unhappy working with boss Jose Mourinho at Stamford Bridge. Galliani also hinted that he is worried that Italian champions and fierce rivals Inter also want Shevchenko.
He said: “I just hope that before Sheva gets back on the plane he does not speak to Moratti (Inter’s president). The only problem is the price.”
Chelsea withdraw Drogba from transfer market
tribalfootball.com - June 24, 2008
Chelsea have withdrawn Didier Drogba from the transfer market.
AC Milan supremo Adriano Galliani revealed last night: "Chelsea say Drogba is not for sale.
"There is only one deal in motion and that's for Adebayor."
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Latest Chelsea News
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Latest Chelsea News
Scolari to take over @ Chelsea is confirmed but he has yet to put pen on paper as he is concentrating on Euro08 Competition but seriously I don't really like him and unsure what style of football he play.If Chelsea had appoint Frank Rijkaard or Roberto Mancini I will be more optimistic and looking forward to a brand new season ! yet other coach that I dislike come and manage chelsea who know if he will involve in a fight with Ferguson or Wenger or Even Benitez ! And he join chelsea because of money what a reason to manage chelsea I don't think we can have much success under a manager who join us because of that !Euro08 Group A and B and C 5th and 6th and 7th day Analysis
Group A - Final Score : Czech Republic 1 - 3 Portugal
Group B Conclusion - Croatia Surprisingly will be the winner of the group facing either Czech or Turkey while Germany very likely to finish 2nd will face Portugal and I am backing Germany to win as I beileve they are one of the true contender for the Euro08 Cup.
Group C - Final Score : Italy 1 - 1 Romania
Group C - Final Score : Netherlands 4 - 1 France
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Latest News On Ronaldo Real Madrid Saga
I Prefer Wearing A White Jersey - Ronaldo - Goal.com
Portugal and Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has dropped another bombshell as he insists he likes wearing a white football kit. The midfield magician looked back on his performance following his side’s 3-1 win over the Czech Republic as they book their place in the quarter finals. As opposed to their usual red kit, Portugal wore their white away kit, and Ronaldo did not let the opportunity pass to make another bid for a Bernabeu move.He believes his side can go on and win the tournament, but what caught more attention was the remark that he likes playing in white as he drops an ironic hint to Real Madrid. “I really like playing in a white football kit, the white national kit that is,” Ronaldo told Marca.“I am really happy with my goal, when you score against Cech it makes you feel even better. "I am in good shape and training well but the best is yet to come.”Ronaldo also spoke about his side’s chances.“Our main aim was to get to next phase. I'm very happy to have helped my team-mates to win,” said Ronaldo "We played very well, although the Czech Republic played very well in the first half. "It was very difficult to penetrate their defence. Portugal have played well in the first match and well again in this match as a team. "We know how to sacrifice everything for the good of the team. We have now got a big chance but must respect our opponents because they too have a mission - they want to win as we do.” Portugal will play Switzerland in their last group A game on Sunday and then they will play the group B runner up which is likely to be Croatia.
FIFA Go With Madrid On Ronaldo - Goal.com
FIFA have told Manchester United in no uncertain terms to quit complaining about Real Madrid’s attempts to lure Cristiano Ronaldo from Old Trafford…
The Red Devils lodged an official complaint last week regarding the manner in which los Merengues have approached the Portugal superstar, who spurred his country to victory against the Czech Republic yesterday.Sir Alex Ferguson and co believe the Spanish giants have been tapping-up their prize winger, with recent revelations suggesting Real have been in contact with Ronaldo and his agent for several months.But los Blancos have refused to admit to any foul play on their part – and world football’s governing body has sided with the La Liga champions.A spokesman for the FIFA executive committee said: “United’s chances of getting Real punished are zero. “I think everyone knows that these things go on in football but proving any wrongdoing is next to impossible. “Real are very powerful and I don’t think they’ll be too worried about United’s claims.” MickeyThe sordid saga has not been helped by the man in the middle of it all, as Ronaldo has failed to commit his future one way or the other.And ex-United winger Gordon Hill believes the 23-year-old's behaviour on and off the pitch has made a mockery of the club and its traditions.“It looks like there’s been something cooking for months,” he said. “What pees me off is that meanwhile they grab the shirt and they grab the badge. That takes the mickey.”Getting back to the issue at hand, with FIFA having washed their hands off this subject, and Ronaldo and Madrid keen on the reunion (as apparent from their daily reminders), the chances of Manchester United holding on to the winger are growing slimmer by the day.
tribalfooball.com - June 09, 2008
The agents of Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo are unhappy with the lack of interest from the club to open new contract talks.
The Daily Mail says FIFA received a strongly-worded official complaint from United chief executive David Gill yesterday over Real Madrid's blatant and persistent attempts to lure Ronaldo.
His advisers, though, are unimpressed by Gill's stance that there is no chance of Ronaldo's £120,000-a-year contract being re-drawn only a year after his last pay rise. And Sir Alex Ferguson has no plans to fly to Switzerland for a showdown with the player.
Man Utd legend Cantona: Ronaldo should stay
tribalfooball.com - June 09, 2008
Manchester United legend Eric Cantona says Cristiano Ronaldo should stay at Old Trafford.
He said of the latest man to wear the famous number seven jersey: "We all want - all the fans of United want - the best players to play for United.
"He's the best player in the world so we all want him to stay at United but if he wants to leave I think United will still win things."
Cantona believes that will apply far into the future, adding: "United is the biggest club in the world, they will win things generation after generation.
"They won things, are winning things and will continue to win things whoever is playing for them."
Cantona fancies Man Utd manager's job
tribalfootball.com - June 09, 2008
Eric Cantona admits he fancies succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United manager.
Speaking at an event to promote a £2.5million television advert for Partouche-Betting.com, Cantona said: "In the near future, maybe when I will be the manager of England they will have a chance to win something.
"Manager of Manchester first, if I can, and then manager of England. With United, I'll win many things!"
Man Utd confident of case against Real Madrid
tribalfootball.com - June 10, 2008
Manchester United have dismissed Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon's claims they have no evidence that the Spanish club are chasing Cristiano Ronaldo unlawfully.
United reported Real to world governing body FIFA on Monday, claiming the Spanish giants were attempting to unsettle Ronaldo, who has hardly helped matters by following up ambiguous statements over his future with a declaration on a Brazilian website that he wished to leave Old Trafford.
The European champions have treated Ronaldo's statements with a large degree of suspicion and prefer to speak with the player face-to-face.
However, as that will not happen until after Euro 2008, United felt they had little option other than to pursue the matter through FIFA given the continued expressions of appreciation by Real over Ronaldo.
And, though Real president Ramon Calderon has protested his club's innocence, this has cut little ice with United, who are happy to let FIFA reach their judgment.
Calderon said: "It is United's right (to complain) but we have not done anything wrong and we are not going to do anything.
"It is a matter for the player and his club."
Arsenal legend Wright slates "no class" Ronaldo
tribalfooball.com - June 10, 2008
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has slammed Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo over his behaviour regarding Real Madrid's interest.
In his column for The Sun, Wright wrote: "As a player, there's no doubt what you're capable of. As a man, you're not showing any class whatsoever.
"You're also failing to show any respect to either Alex Ferguson or the Manchester United fans.
"To be honest, I'm embarrassed for you.
"You're now 23 and you should not be acting quite so immature.
"You've been at Old Trafford for five years but it's only the last two seasons you've set the place on fire.
"Previous to that, Fergie stuck with you. Despite your diving and despite the fact you would always try to take on a defender rather than pass to a team-mate. When you acted a right winker at the World Cup two years ago, your club manager once again showed extreme loyalty to you, along with United's fans.
"They could have turned on you after your behaviour during the England match in Germany but they didn't.
"You've now become one hell of a player - the best on this planet. I'd pay just to see you warm-up, let alone play a game.
"But with the drop of a hat, it seems you're ready to join Real Madrid."
Real Madrid to open with £60M bid for Man Utd's Ronaldo
tribalfootball.com - June 10, 2008
Real Madrid are ready to make a first offer of the summer for Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Times says sources in Madrid indicated last night that Real will offer United a fee in the region of £60 million for Ronaldo after Portugal are eliminated from the tournament, or, if they reach the final, after June 29.
Ramon Calderon, the Real president, is said to be delighted by the developments of the past three weeks, with Ronaldo voicing his long-suspected desire to move to the Spanish champions. Real hope that the player will force United's hand by requesting a transfer when his involvement in the tournament is over.
Man Utd demand Ronaldo stick to preseason schedule
tribalfootball.com - June 10, 2008
Manchester United will warn Cristiano Ronaldo about staying away from preseason training.
The Sun says United want the Real Madrid target to report at their Carrington base three weeks after Portugal play their last match at Euro 2008.
If he is not, they will start disciplinary action against the £110,000-a-week ace.
Yesterday, United announced they have complained to FIFA over Real's constant courting of their star winger.
United refuse to pander to Ronaldo's claims he wants a move to Madrid.
Boss Alex Ferguson will not fly to Portugal's training base to speak to Ronaldo nor has he tried to contact him by phone.
As far as Fergie is concerned the player is under contract to United - and that is the way it stays.
Chelsea's Carvalho tells Ronaldo: Sometimes a new challenge is good
tribalfooball.com - June 10, 2008
Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho has steered clear of transfer talk over his Portugal teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Carvalho said of the Manchester United star: "He has to make his decision.
"Sometimes a new challenge is good but he has to make that decision. I can't say much about this."
Man Utd dismiss buyout clause claims for Ronaldo
tribalfooball.com - June 10, 2008
Manchester United have dismissed Spanish claims that Cristiano Ronaldo's current contract carries a buyout clause.
The Daily Mail says Spanish sources claimed yesterday that Real, notwithstanding an official complaint to FIFA from vexed United, had tabled a £70million offer for the 23-year-old Portugal winger - the figure widely believed in Spain to match a release clause in Ronaldo's contract.
United vehemently deny such a clause exists as they follow a strict policy of excluding any such clause from their deals with players.
Ferguson wants Man Utd to hand Ronaldo new £150,000-a-week contract
tribalfootball.com - June 10, 2008
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson wants his board to hand Cristiano Ronaldo a new £150,000-a-week contract.
The Daily Mail says chief executive David Gill has steadfastly refused to buckle in the face of continued pressure from Real Madrid but Ronaldo's advisers believe the problem can be resolved by a simple renegotiation of the four-year deal he signed last summer.
That would involve increasing his pay from £120,000 a week and adding an improved image rights package.
Real's shameless pursuit of Ronaldo was not unexpected and the player's camp clearly expected him to be offered a pay rise, especially in the light of a 42-goal wonder season that saw him scoop all the player of the year awards.
His advisers were utterly dismayed when Gill made it plain that there would be no negotiations this summer.
Real Madrid SNAPPED in conversation with Man Utd's Ronaldo
tribalfooball.com - June 10, 2008
Real Madrid fitness coach Valter di Salvo has been photographed in conversation with Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Sun has published the photos, stating they show Ronaldo secretly meeting Di Salvo in Rome.
Di Salvo worked with Ronaldo for three seasons at Old Trafford, where they formed a strong bond.
Sources close to Ronaldo insisted at the time it was a chance meeting as the Portugal winger took a two-day break in the Italian capital.
Yet the full picture only now begins to emerge because we can reveal Di Salvo, who controversially left United last summer to join Madrid, gave the Spanish giants a FULL report on Ronaldo.
In it were all his observations of the United superstar during their time together at Old Trafford - precious information about his lifestyle, fitness, diet and personality.
Glazers assure Man Utd boss Ferguson he'll get Ronaldo cash
tribalfooball.com - June 11, 2008
The Glazer family has assured Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson that if they're forced to sell Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid, he will get the fee raised to fund his own transfer plans.
The Telegraph says United remain adamant that Ronaldo will not be sold this year and the club's American owners are backing Ferguson's hardline stance, but sources at Old Trafford have also dismissed suggestions that they would consider using a potential £75million transfer fee to help pay off the club's debts.
Despite still owing in excess of £600million following the Glazers' controversial takeover, United's enormous turnover means that the debt can be serviced within their existing financial structure.
Calderon brands Man Utd comments "grotesque"
tribalfootball.com - June 11, 2008
Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has turned up the heat on their row with Manchester United.
After United reported Real to FIFA over their crass pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo, Calderon launched a bitter attack on Sir Alex Ferguson and Carlos Queiroz.
The Sun says Calderon is furious at boss Fergie for linking Madrid with former Spanish dictator Franco and United No 2 Queiroz for saying Portugal kicked the Spaniards out of their country.
The Real supremo bleated: "It seems grotesque to talk about Franco and the occupation of Portugal. It wasn%uFFFDt a very fortunate thing to say.
"It is Man U right to complain but Real Madrid have done nothing irregular and we will never do that.
"We've not interfered and we won't interfere.
"It's impossible that they have proof of the contrary because it's something that has not happened. It's a matter between the player and his club."
My Euro08 Group D Day 4 Analysis
Group D Analysis
Final Score : Spain 4 - 1 Russia
1st Half
Torres outwits Kolodin on the left-hand corner of the penalty area before toeing the ball past the advancing Akinfeev to Villa, who sidefoots the ball into the empty net ! 1-0 to Spain.
Unlucky Russia HIT THE POST! A low cross from the right reaches Konstantin Zyrianov at the back post, and he turns the ball against the left-hand upright from 15 yards! Spain counter-attack, and Torres gets in behind the Russia defence before flicking a shot over Akinfeev but wide of the near post! They break at pace from the corner, Iniesta slips a cute ball behind the Russia defence to Villa and he slots the ball between Akinfeev's legs to double Spain's lead! Lovely football.Double joy for Spain @ half-time Game Over.
2nd Half
Chance for Russia ! Bystrov gets his head to Zyrianov's cross from the left but puts his header straight at Casillas ! Spain go close twice! First, Senna's header from Xavi's corner is pushed out by Akinfeev, and then Silva follows up with a beautifully struck volley from outside the box that's straight at the Russia keeper ! HAT TRICK FOR DAVID VILLA ! He latches onto Fabregas's pass to the left-hand side of the area, cuts inside Shirokov and tucks the ball inside the near post ! Well Deserve man of the match performance and he e become the 1st hat trick hero in the Euro08 tournament.Russia's corner is flicked on at the near post by Shirokov before being powerfully headed home at the back post by Pavlyuchenko! And, for the first time in this tournament, both sides have scored in a game.Too little too late they should have pounce on Spain with free kicks and corners as most Spainish players are not even 1.8m tall and clearly look weak @ set piece suitations.David Villa scoops the ball into Xavi's path, Xavi's volley is parried by Akinfeev and Fabregas dives in to head home ! Icing on the cake and that is total disaster for Russia while joy all round for Spain.
Conclusion : Guus Hiddink got it all wrong as his makeshift backline totally didn't work and the Russia players except for hard working positive attitude striker Pavlyuchenko gave up the match after the 2 goals went in during the first half.Pavlyuchenko could have score more goals and deserve the goal for his effort one to look out for.Spain have it all too easy against Russia as their defence look disorganised and totally incapable for dealing with Villa and Torres.
Final Score : Greece 0 - 2 Sweden
1st Half
Charisteas weaves his way past a couple of defenders on the right-hand edge of the penalty area before driving in a low left-footer that's straight at Andreas Isaksson.Anders Svensson thumps a left-footed volley @ the edge of the box over the crossbar ! just inches away! Ljungberg curls a cross into the box from deep on the left and Ibrahimovic heads it inches over the bar with to produce a good save from Isaksson.Basinas ram the ball from distance and Isaksson drops to his left to push the ball around the post ! Boring 1st half.......
2nd Half
Wilhelmsson is picked out in acres of space on the Swedish right-hand side but with Nikopolidis racing from his line he sidefoots the ball over the crossbar ! yet other chance wasted by Sweden ! Dellas's right-wing cross is headed backwards by Hansson and goes wide of the left-hand post by inches with Isaksson beaten! Almost a superb own goal.An absolute belter from Ibrahimovic! He exchanges passes with Larsson on the right-hand corner of the penalty area before rifling an unstoppable drive into the top-left corner! Screamer that is just what the game needed.Ljungberg's shot is saved, Elmander pokes the ball up into the air and Hansson somehow scrambles the ball home off his left knee at the back post ! Greece with 18 minutes left to chase back 2 goals an impossible task thus it is game over for them.
Conclusion : Sweden look strong and compact with Star Striker Ibrahimovic On Fire but need to convert the chances created against Russia and Spain or else they are likely to be make to pay.Greece legendary Euro2004 Champaign are not set to repeat itself as they look to be down and out just like Russia.
Group D Winners Predictions : Spain
Group D Runner-up Prediction : Sweden
Jackson Ng Ghim Pheng True Blue Chelsea And Italy Fan cfcghimpheng.blogspot.com
My Euro08 Group C Day 3 Analysis
Group C Analysis
Final Score : Romania 0 - 0 France
Boring, Boring France and toothless Romania has effectively wasted 2 hours of my life watching them playing negative slow tempo football.The Only Spark for France is Malouda, Anelka, Ribery And Benzema.I thought Toulalan put in a poor performance and the coach should have sub him off and I am even more mystify by the decision to sub off 2 dangerous goal scoring threat Anelka and Benzema.I thought he should have sub on attacking left back Evra for Abial And Henry for Toulalan instead since Romania rarely get to even attack and that the French are seeking for a winning goal.Organisation in defence and tatical discipline of the players especially attacking players who help to track back alot has earn the underdog a well deserve draw.Romania will be keen to do the same against the Majestic Italian and Total Football Dutch or even steal a winner against one of them.
Conclusion : France must play attacking full back Evra and replace Toulalan with a better midfielder like Samir Nasri or Vieria or Diarra in order to have better chances of scoring goals.Romania is keen to prove the world wrong as they seek to not to lose any matches while sneaking a win out of the last 2 qualifying matches.
Final Score : Netherlands 0 - 0 Italy
Unlucky Italians to concede a goal that is not suppose to be allow as Van The Man Ruud should have been ruled offside and the goal should have been disallowed ! The game has become a forgone conclusion as soon as the 2nd goal went in what was the Italian defence doing ?! Leaving Wesley Sneijder completely unmarked in the box and Sneijder couldn’t beileve his luck just like Van Nistelrooy earlier on.Seems like Lady Luck is shining on the Dutch today and they are bound to go through to the quarter-finals now while the Italians set to have an early bath out of Euro08 Championship
Conclusion - Italy one step away from being out of Euro08 they must beat or draw Romania if they draw then a victory against France is a must.
Group C Winners - Netherlands
Group C Runner-up - France
Jackson Ng Ghim Pheng True Blue Chelsea And Italy Fan cfcghimpheng.blogspot.com
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
My Euro08 Betting Guide
Winnings So Far :
I have won in the opening match backing Czech Republic on 1x2 with a bet of $150 and won $380.50 a cool profit of $230.50
Losings So Far : None
SPAIN vs RUSSIA*** Betting Preview Home - 75%, Draw - 20%, Away - 5%
Go for a Spain win can try Draw - Away or 1 - 0 Scoreline.
Remark*** : I have place a bet of $10 on 1 - 0 Spain Win.For Safe bet just go for a Spain Win On 1x2.
GREECE vs SWEDEN Betting Preview Home - 25%, Draw - 40%, Away - 35%
Most likely a draw but could go either way.
Remark : Not betting in this match as it is too risky any results are possible if you have to then a draw should be the logical choice.
CZECH REPUBLIC vs PORTUGAL Betting Preview Home - 25%, Draw 45%, Away - 30%
Portugal is favourites but they have not been far from convincing and Czech Republic with lady luck shining on their side with One of the World Best Goalkeeper In Europe I don't think Portugal will have an easy ride though they are favourites in this match.
Remark : Not betting once again as it is too risky wanted to put on draw but decided not to.Backing Portugal in this match is not a wise choice even though they are favourites to win this match that all I can advice you.
SWITZERLAND vs TURKEY Betting Preview Home - 25%, Draw - 35%, Away - 40%
Swiss With Home Advantage is not expected to lose 2 matches in a row thus the odds are favouring the Swiss side but Turkey is the stronger team despite the disadvantage of playing away.
Remark : Not Betting.Draw or Away win on the cards.
CROATIA vs GERMANY*** Betting Preview Home - 10%, Draw 25%, Away - 65%
Germany with Stunning form and high tempo together with high stamina with excellent tatical organisation while the Croatia look exactly the opposite thus Tournament Favourites German Win Is Beckoning.
Remark*** : I have place a bet Germany HT-FT Draw-Away $10. For Safe Bet just put Germany On 1x2.
AUSTRIA vs POLAND*** Betting Preview Home - 30%, Draw 45%, Poland - 25%
Austria despite being Ranked 92th by FIFA but they was the better side in their first match against Croatia and has been hugely impress by them after watching them play with hardwork and determination for the pride of the nation as well as the supporting home fans.
Remark*** : I have place a bet on Austria Home-Draw $5.For Safe Bet just put on a draw.
Note : I have put on my Remark the matches that I have place my bets on and those that I haven't.Those matches that I have place bets on will be marked by 3 Asterisk *** for easy viewing purpose.I do not encourage bettings and bet leisurely now as I have suffer huge losses in the past as well.Every gambler that I know of has lost more than they win and those who are keen to shake off the adiction of betting please refer below and for all All Addictions Helpline: 6-RECOVER (67326837)
Disclaimer : All of the Above Betting Previews are to be use as a Guide only and as I am not a football god (If I am I will be rich already) so if you lose your bet through my guide please don't blame me as the above are only to be use a guide.
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Jackson Ng Ghim Pheng True Blue Chelsea And Italy Fan cfcghimpheng.blogspot.com
My Euro08 Group B Day 2 Analysis
Final Score : Austria 0 - 1 Croatia
Group B Analysis
Final Score : Germany 2 - 0 Poland
1st Half
Germany Started with a 4-4-2 With Red Hot Mario Gomez And Ever Reliable Regular Goalscorer Klose started upfront look a formidable pair upfront with Lukas Podolski started out on the Left Flank.All Eyes are On these 3 players and I was especially taking a close look @ Podolski from the start as he has always been a big match player as shown in the last World Cup and he impress me alot and definetly one to watch out for and potential golden boot winner as well.
A through ball to Klose and he is clear through on goal after the Poles defenders stepped up to play Gomez offside, he must score but he choose to squares it for some reason and it's well ahead of Gomez who cannot poke it home! It wouldn't have counted anyway as Gomez had become active, but why on earth didn't Klose score himself ? Bizarre ! Wrong decision making ! which Germany is not make to pay for later.Germany Again spring the offside trap as Gomez slides an excellent ball through to Klose who is through and must score but he squares it again AND THIS TIME THERE IS NO MISTAKE WITH THE PASS FOR PODOLSKI TO SCORE! 1-0 to Germany, the Polish-born duo refuse to celebrate which I think it is respectful.Germany dominated the first half and scoring an important opening goal and is looking likely to score another to seal the game off.
2nd half
Frings slides it to Lahm on the right wing, he pings it low to Ballack just inside the area with a rocket into the top right hand corner but only to deny by a brilliant save by Boruc ! Great stop by the Number 1 Celtic Keeper to tip it over for a Corner.Germany attack again, one-two with Frings and Ballack, the ball is played through and Poland defenders caught napping, Golanski mis-controls and allows Schweinsteiger on the right is free and he slips it to KLOSE who tries a shot but totally mis-hits it AND IT DROPS TO PODOLSKI WHO PUTS HIS BOOT THROUGH IT FOR 2-0! That's it, former Pole Podolski has a brace. A muted celebration from the Bayern Munich Striker again. Comfortable 2 - 0 win for Germany in the end, the pre-tournament favourites get off to a flyer !
Confirmed Group B Predictions
Group B Winners Predictions - Germany
Group B Runner-up Predictions - Croatia
Jackson Ng Ghim Pheng True Blue Chelsea And Italy Fan
cfcghimpheng.blogspot.com
Cristiano Ronaldo Roar his way to Madrid !
Let Me Go To Real Madrid !!! 
Manchester United have taken the unusual step of reporting Real Madrid to FIFA for what they see as the continued courting of Cristiano Ronaldo.The double winners want closure on the issue, 13 days after warning the Spanish club to stay silent on the subject of the 23-year-old Portugal winger or else.United believe Real have failed to comply, resulting in a complaint to world football's governing body.A FIFA spokesman said: "I can confirm that we have received an official request from Manchester United to look into the matter."We have only just received the documents so we need some time to analyse them before we can make any decision."United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has already voiced his disliking of Real's public pursuit of Ronaldo, pointing out their major domestic rivals, Barcelona, refrain from public expressions of admiration for other clubs' players.He is adamant Ronaldo neither wants to, nor will be leaving Old Trafford this summer.
Man Utd's Ronaldo refusing to take Fergie calls
tribalfooball.com - June 08, 2008
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is struggling to make contact with Cristiano Ronaldo.
The News of the World says Fergie is desperate to speak to him in a bid to convince him to stay in England. But the longer Ronaldo blanks his boss, the less chance Ferguson has of changing his mind.
A source close to the United manager said: "Alex has been on the phone almost non-stop from France where he's on holiday because he HAS to speak to Ronaldo.
"But he can't get him to the phone. He's left message after message but Ronaldo point- blank refuses to speak to him.
"There is a complete breakdown in the relationship now. Fergie is angry that his calls are not getting through and Ronaldo is furious that the Glazers said he could rot in the stands if he decides to go to Madrid.
"The club will do everything in their power to keep Ronaldo but it seems like Fergie is facing a losing battle at the moment."
Ronaldo's agent, Jorge Mendes, is also reported to be blanking furious United chief executive David Gill.
Ronaldo brother expects Real Madrid move
tribalfootball.com - June 08, 2008
The brother of Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo is convinced he is on his way to Real Madrid.
"He wants to play for Real Madrid next season," Hugo Santos Aveiro told LaSexta. "From now or within one or two years he will go to Real Madrid.
"Personally, I'd like it, I'd love it."
Liverpool chief Parry enjoys Ronaldo dig at Man Utd
tribalfootball.com - June 08, 2008
Liverpool chief Rick Parry couldn't resist a dig at Manchester United counterpart David Gill at last week's Premier League summit.
The People says when talk turned to servicing debt, Gill pointed out how bad the situation is at Real Madrid. Parry, mindful of the Spaniards' pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo, quipped: "And it's about to get £70million worse!"
Real Madrid want Ronaldo to demand Man Utd transfer
tribalfootball.com - June 09, 2008
Real Madrid want Cristiano Ronaldo to slap in a transfer request at Manchester United immediately after Euro2008.
The Sun says the Spanish giants want him to deliver the ultimatum to Manchester United before jetting off on holiday.
Ronaldo, 23, has continued his cat-and-mouse game with United. When he was asked about his future the winger said: "I don't know - but my future is good. My focus is only to play well in the Euro. After the Euro I'll talk."
Real followed the same strategy when they nabbed Zinedine Zidane from Juventus for a world record £47million fee seven years ago.
If the plan fails, Real will expect Ronaldo to go on strike.
Man Utd warn Ronaldo's agent about Real Madrid treatment
tribalfootball.com - June 08, 2008
Manchester United have warned Cristiano Ronaldo's agent it won't be in his best interests to help the Portuguese move to Real Madrid.
The People says United believe it's in the best interests of Jorge Mendes himself for Ronaldo to remain at Old Trafford for the time being at least.
Although the Lisbon based adviser would have the biggest ever pay day earned by an agent if Madrid forked out the £75million United would demand, he knows he could lose his client.
The way Madrid operate they would take all of Ronaldo's image rights stripping Mendes of any real power in terms of negotiating on behalf of his player
Man Utd ready to suspend Ronaldo without pay
tribalfootball.com - June 09, 2008
Manchester United are ready to play tough with Cristiano Ronaldo if he attempts to go on strike.
The Sunday Mirror says Old Trafford bosses will get tough in their fight to keep the Portuguese boy wonder out of the clutches of Real Madrid.
Claims from Madrid that Ronaldo will go on strike to force his £70million move to the Bernabeu sparked a damning response from Old Trafford. A United source said: "If Cristiano decides to go on strike the club would have no hesitation in suspending him and stopping his wages with immediate effect.
"We hope it won't come to this."
Heinze urges Man Utd's Ronaldo to take Real Madrid option
tribalfooball.com - June 09, 2008
Real Madrid defender Gabriel Heinze has urged former Manchester United teammate Cristiano Ronaldo to join him in Spain.
He said: "I don't think Ronaldo will get any better as a footballer. He's already next to God in his ability!
"If I had to pay for one player I would choose him.
"In Madrid we'd welcome him with open arms. I don't think he'd have problems adapting to any team in the world. Players of his quality fit in anywhere."
Ferdinand: Ronaldo won't leave Man Utd
tribalfootball.com - June 09, 2008
Rio Ferdinand is convinced Cristiano Ronaldo will stay with Manchester United.
Speaking in a Sky Sports News exclusive from a charity visit to Nigeria, he said he would love to see Ronaldo repeat what he has done this season next term.
Asked if he was worried that Ronaldo might leave, he replied: "Not really - I don't think Manchester United are noted as a selling club really.
"I saw an interview with the manager the other day and I think we only really sell players that we want to sell and I wouldn't put Ronnie in that category.
"At the end of the day he is a Man United player and long may that continue," he said, adding he thought it was imperative that the club keeps him.
"I want him to be my team-mate because he is a fantastic footballer and that means we are going to be that bit more successful if we have got him in our ranks.
"As I said, I would love him to stay but I am not the man who makes the decisions at the club.
"So we are just like the fans really, we read the papers and listen to the TV and stuff and we'll watch this space but I'm sure he will be a Man United player next season."
Ferdinand says whatever decision manager Sir Alex Ferguson makes, he will have the full backing of the players.
He said: "The manager is first-class in these situations and he's had massive decisions to make in the past.
"I'll be honest with you, whatever the manager goes with I think the players will be standing 100 per cent behind him because his experience is telling obviously and when he makes a decision, invariably they are on the button so whatever he makes his mind up with, we are there behind him."
Monday, June 09, 2008
My Euro08 Group A Opening Analysis
Almost everyone have the latest news of the Euro08 though papers, radio, television and friends thus I will have My Own Euro08 Analysis !
Group A
Final Score : Host Switzerland 0-1 Czech Republic
All the Tipsters in The New Paper predicted either a draw or a swiss win if you have last Saturday 7 June Paper you will have notice it.
http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/sports/story/0,4136,166852-1212962340,00.html
http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/sports/story/0,4136,166849-1212962340,00.html
Group A Analysis
1st Half
Swiss is the better side in the first half and created more genuine chances and have more shots on target then the half chances Czech created in the first half.But thanks to one of the world best goalkeeper of the world Petr Cech was able to save everything that try to get into his precious cage ! I mean goal.....and that does not please the Swiss fans nor players either as they have some really goal scoring opportunity only to be denied by Cech.And Number 9 Young and talented Swiss Captain Alexander Frei sub off just before half time that is a big psychological blow to the Swiss as they needed quality strikers upfront.
2nd Half
The Tide has been turn and Czech possession football is finally working and the brave decision to take off their always reliable Top goalscorer Jan Koller early in the 56th minutes for the famous number 10 shirt worn Arsenal Thomas Rosicky and currently worn by Vaclav Sverkos the new Czech goalscoring hero who won the match for Czech Republic against the Host Swiss.This brave and early Substitution has really pay dividend as Jan Koller is slow and his main job is act as target man which is clearly not working and bringing on the Pacy Vaclav Sverkos to pounce on the tired Swiss defence and all he needed was one golden opportunity which he took it beautifully into the bottom right corner Sweet ! After that it was 10 man attack against 10 man defence with Swiss as the attacking side and 2 hand ball shout which is cruelly turn away by the ref and one of them is in the penalty and it did hit the hand of the Czech defender Ujfanlusi but the ref wave away the complaints and finally the 90 minutes whistle Beep*beep*Beep* It Is all Over Czech won Swiss off to a bad start and look set to be out of the competition in the group stages.
Conclusion : Home Advantage is important but football skills and tatics and injuries are the most important to conclude who is more likely to be the winner of the match
Final Score : Portugal 2-0 Turkey
1st Half
It was 50-50 as both side have chances to score but fail to do so and Turkey look strong defensively in the first half and able to threaten the Portugal goal with a few half chances.Pepe header from a free kick resulted in a goal but he was clearly offside when the cross was made thus pepe celebration was cut short and held his hand with both hand in despair and disappoint as he couldn't beileve that he was offisde and that was his first goal for the country and possibly the winner goal.
2nd Half
Portugal dominated proceedings and the 1st goal of the match soon follow.It all started with a pass from Ronaldo to Pepe and Pepe bring the ball forward and pass to Gomez and Pepe continue his run into the box and Gomez swiftly and accurately pass the ball into Pepe path and Pepe lob the ball over the keeper classy finish that even his teamate Gomez will be proud of.Turkey went Gung-Ho but fail to trouble Portugal much.2nd goal came in the last injury time 93rd minutes when Ronaldo pass the ball to Jose Moutinho and he made a sweet turn which fool 2 defenders and most important the out rushing keeper and all 3 was stun before moutinho clamly pass the ball to Raul Meireles who tap his 1st goal for the country in close range @ the edge of the penalty box into the net.
Conclusion : Turkey effectively block out the attacks on the wings by Ronaldo, Simao and Quaresma but they forgot that goals are not only score from the wings and that Portugal have good center attacking players namely Nuno Gomez and Jose Moutinho which was involve in both of the goals.A heavy price to pay overestimating the portugal wing play.
Group A Winners Predictions for now - Czech Republic
Group A Runner-up Predictions for now - Portugal
Jackson Ng Ghim Pheng True Blue Chelsea And Italy Fan
cfcghimpheng.blogspot.com
Friday, June 06, 2008
Latest Footy News
AC Milan in talks for Chelsea strikers Didier Drogba and Andriy Shevchenko By Stefano Blin
AC Milan vice president Adriano Galliani has said the club have opened talks with Chelsea about the possibility of signing Didier Drogba and Andriy Shevchenko.
Talks: AC Milan are keen to recruit Chelsea strikers
Galliani said that his relationship with the managerless Premier League club had not been damaged by the approach for Ancelotti, before claiming he spoke with Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon yesterday about Drogba and Shevchenko's availability.
"We are speaking about Drogba, we are speaking about Shevchenko," Gallaini has been quoted as saying.
Galliani, whose Milan side finished fifth in Serie A last season and will only compete in the Uefa Cup, said he wanted to rebuild the squad so that they could make a serious challenge for the Italian title next season.
Drogba made no secret of his desire to leave Chelsea when Jose Mourinho was sacked as manager eight months ago. It is thought Drogba had a fractious relationship with Avram Grant, who took over from Mourinho until he too was shown the door following the club's defeat to Manchester United in the Champions League final.
Shevchenko has struggled in England since his move from Milan in 2006. The Ukrainian was held in high esteem at Milan; it was his kick in the penalty shoot-out which clinched the Champions League trophy for the club in 2003 when they played Juventus in an all-Italian affair at Old Trafford.
Such is the strong bond between Shevchenko and the Serie A giants, Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi is godfather to the striker's first son.
Galliani, Berlusconi's right-hand man who handles the day-to-day running of the club, also warned Chelsea off making a move for Kaka. Chelsea tried to sign Kaka in 2003 before he opted to go to Italy, and have kept close tabs on the Brazil international ever since
"He's absolutely not for sale," Gallaini said.
Meanwhile, Ancelotti has reiterated his desire to stay as manager of Milan.
"I'm not going there (to Chelsea)," he said. "It's fantasy football. It happens every year. I never had any doubt that I would be at Milan next season."
Inter Milan have confirmed the appointment of former Chelsea manager JoseMourinho as Roberto Mancini's successor.Mourinho, who was sacked by Chelsea in September, has been out of the gamesince then, biding his time until finding a suitable role to take.The Serie A champions finally parted company with Mancini last week aftermonths of speculation and the Portuguese boss, a Champions League winner withPorto in 2004, has signed a three-year deal at the San Siro.
A statement on Inter's website, www.inter.it, confirmed: "Internazionaleannounce the arrival of Jose Mourinho."The Portuguese coach has signed a three-year contract and will work alongsideRui Farias, Silvino and Andrei Villas Boas.
Mourinho has big shoes to fill as Mancini led Inter to the Serie A title ineach of the last three seasons.Mancini's departure was a protracted affair, with reports last week suggestingthere had been a breakdown in communication between the coach and presidentMassimo Moratti.Mancini's agent claimed after Tuesday's 25-minute meeting between the pair thathis client had left the club and would be replaced by Mourinho.The Italian's dismissal was confirmed by the club on Thursday, just hours afterInter had threatened legal action because of reports they claimed did not"correspond to the truth of the facts".Inter cited Mancini's announcement in the wake of their Champions League defeatto Liverpool on March 11 that he would step down at the end of the season as acrucial factor.Mancini reversed his decision 24 hours later and went on to lead Inter to theirthird straight Serie A title, but after much speculation, his departure wasconfirmed on Thursday evening.Mourinho has long been linked with the post at the San Siro.He was appointed as manager of Chelsea back in 2004 after leading Porto to theChampions League title.He led Chelsea to back-to-back Premier League titles, but could not bring theChampions League trophy to Stamford Bridge in just over three years in charge atthe London club.He left Chelsea last September by mutual consent and has been linked with ahost of top jobs since.
Manchester City land Hughes and Shinawatra plans £200,000-a-week deal for Ronaldinho
Sources here close to owner Thaksin Shinawatra revealed that members of City's Thai board are expected to meet Ronaldinho face-to-face in Porto Alegre.
Mark Hughes, who should be confirmed as City's new manager within the next 48 hours, would be able to pair Ronaldinho with £20million centre forward Jo in an all-Brazilian attack next season.
Sven Goran Eriksson formally parted company with the club yesterday and will become Mexico's new coach, while Hughes was given permission by Blackburn to talk to City after the two clubs agreed on compensation.
There will be other signings, too, as Thaksin opens his chequebook to support his new boss.
The latest development follows a series of meetings between Thaksin's right-hand man Pairoj Piempongsant and Ronaldinho's brother and chief negotiator Roberto De Assis.
A clandestine visit to City's stadium two months ago was first revealed in Sportsmail after the parties had been introduced by the influential transfer broker Kia Joorabchian.
City's extravagant ambition has been laughed off around the football world - but that would be to underestimate the determination of their Thai owner and his new executive chairman, Garry Cook.
Talks have opened with the player's major sponsor Nike, along with other possible investors who may help finance the exorbitant wage demands.
Ronaldinho, it is claimed in Spain, wants around £200,000-a-week to leave Barcelona. Such a deal would make him the highest-paid player in England - dwarfing the £135,000-a-week paid by Chelsea to England captain John Terry.
It is no coincidence that Cook is joining City from Nike, where he was a brand president and with whom Ronaldinho has a long-term contract.
City have been given clearance from Barcelona to open detailed talks. A pay-as-you-play deal could be thrashed out with club and player, with performance-related bonuses for a forward who has scored an impressive 70 goals in 145 La Liga games.
A source in Spain said: "Ronaldinho is showing a growing interest in going to England and while there is still much negotiating ahead, it is possible. Also in City's favour is this: Who else can afford him?"
Hughes has given his cautious approval to the pursuit of the 28-year-old, who has been considered the best player in the world for several seasons.
Hughes will want to know whether Ronaldinho can still deliver and if he has the physical know-how to cope with the pace of the Premier League.
He will also want assurances about the Brazilian's fitness. Ronaldinho has recently fallen from grace at Barcelona, where his general match fitness has been called into question following a series of disputes with the now departed coach Frank Rijkaard.
During an injuryravaged final season, Ronaldinho missed the Champions League semifinal against Manchester United, when Barcelona failed to score in either leg.
However, he was World Player of the Year for the second time only two years ago and City believe that, under Hughes, his fire can be rekindled.
Initial talks have even taken place on the shirt Ronaldinho will wear - City's No 10 - and how the club will cope with the commercial pressures of such a signing.
Barcelona's club shop, for instance, was dominated by Ronaldinho dolls, keyrings, posters, games and his own range of kits and balls.
He is also one of the faces of EA Sports computer games and remains a popular 'brand' because of his range of tricks.
The City board, however, know the deal will only work commercially if Ronaldinho is delivering on the pitch.
Sportsmail has learned that Ronaldinho has already been exchanging positive texts with City's new Brazilian capture, the 21-year-old striker Jo who will wear the No 14 shirt next season.
Even the most positive of Thaksin's aides believed City would lose out eventually to AC Milan, but that trail has gone cold. De Assis went to Thailand two weeks ago to see if City were still keen on his brother. Chelsea were expected to sign Ronaldinho following talks in London before the January trasnfer window but they, too, have stepped away from the negotiating table.
Sources claim his wage demands were "too much even for Roman Abramovich".
City, however, hope a clever deal involving sponsors will restrict their liability.
Despite City's lack of Champions League football - they will instead play in the UEFA Cup next season after qualifying through the Fair Play League - Ronaldinho is said to have been 'very positive' about their approach.
In a recent poll in Asia, he was still voted the No 1 player in the world, ahead of Milan's Kaka and Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo.
City, who have plans to develop their status in the Far East, where they trail United and Liverpool considerably, will hope Ronaldinho's signing can help drive global shirt sales.
"The deal is still at the possible stage, rather than the probable stage," was the word from Spain last night. '"But it seems that anything is possible with the type of money City are ready to pay."
For Hughes, who has been used to dealing with bargain buys at Blackburn, the tantalising prospect could be one of the reasons why he is keen to move to City. He had two years left on his £1.5m-a-year contract at Ewood Park and Rovers' demand for compensation in the region of £2m was agreed with City as a condition of allowing him to begin talks.
But Thaksin showed last summer that he is not frightened to splash out millions, as he bankrolled Eriksson's teambuilding to the tune of £50m, which produced a ninth-place finish.
The Swede flew to Mexico City last night after his abrupt exit from Eastlands and is expected to be confirmed as Mexico's national coach today.
Drogba reveals Olympic dream
Chelsea could be without star striker for season openers
The African nation are expected to mount a strong challenge for the gold medal in Beijing, and are prepared to call up a number of their European-based players to help their cause.
Drogba, along with his Chelsea team-mate Salomon Kalou, Arsenal's Kolo Toure and Tottenham's Didier Zokora are all believed to have made themselves available for the trip to China.
Each country is allowed to name up to three players over the age of 23 in their squad, so at least one of the Premier League quartet will miss out.
However, the tournament is set to overlap the start of the 2008/09 season in England, a worrying situation for the clubs involved.
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has already expressed his concern at losing a number of players to the Olympics, while Chelsea's new boss, whoever that may be, will be disappointed to hear his star striker making himself unavailable for domestic action.
"Going to the Olympics is a dream for any player," Drogba said in SPORT.
"I have played in the African Cup of Nations and the World Cup so to complete the set with the Olympics would be great."
Adrian Mutu ordered to pay Chelsea £9.5 million for positive drugs test By Telegraph staff
Fifa have ordered Adrian Mutu, the Romania striker, to pay €12 million (about £9.5 million) to Chelsea for testing positive for cocaine in 2004, according to the player's lawyer.
Stiff penalty: Romania's Adrian Mutu has been ordered to pay Chelsea more than £9 million
"People should understand that this is a decision taken by a sporting tribunal," Sarbu said. "After this is final, this decision can be taken to a civil court."
Fifa did not immediately confirm the decision, and Romanian Football Federation spokesman Paul Zaharia declined to comment, adding he was aware of the reports.
Zaharia said Mutu was training in the Swiss mountains with the team ahead of its opening European Championship match against France on Monday.
Chelsea had asked for £8 million in compensation, a claim that was based on Mutu's transfer value.
Chelsea bought Mutu from Parma in 2003 for £15 million and let him go in 2004 after he tested positive for cocaine.
He was suspended from all football for the next seven months.
The Premier League also ruled that Mutu's misconduct was a unilateral breach of contract without just cause.
In December 2005, an appeal filed by Mutu against the Premier League's decision was dismissed. Fifa made the latest decision after the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled in May 2007 that the world football body should set the level of Mutu's fine.
Mourinho: England A Big Miss
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Euro2008 Update
Group A Portugal: 1833 Turkey: 1782 Switzerland: 1770 Group B Croatia: 1848 Poland: 1760 Austria: 1572 Group C France: 1983 Netherlands: 1939 Romania: 1872 Group D Greece: 1823 Sweden: 1770 Russia: 1762
Refereeing teamsUEFA's Referees' Committee has designated 12 referees and 24 assistants (along with eight fourth officials) to take charge of the 31 matches from 7-29 June 2008. The referee 'trios' comprise referees and assistant referees from the same country, all of whom have been on constant duty as a team in European club matches – particularly the UEFA Champions League – over the past year. UEFA chooses refereeing teams because of the experience and understanding that the three officials gather together.
'The best in the business'"It is never easy to select the final list of names to officiate at a tournament as prestigious as the UEFA European Football Championship," said Angel María Villar Llona, the chairman of the UEFA Referees' Committee. "However, these officials are the best in the business at the moment and deserve their chance. The idea of appointing trios began at UEFA EURO 2004™, as it enables the officials to work closely together in their own domestic competition and at UEFA level for a longer period of time before the tournament. We wish them all the very best in their appointments at UEFA EURO 2008™."
Communication systemThe ear-piece communications system between match officials, used in top European matches, will be authorised for use in the finals. The system, UEFA said, "should facilitate quick and efficient communication".
Preparatory seminarThe 44 selected match officials will now begin their preparations in earnest. They will attend a preparatory seminar from 14-17 April at the Mövenpick Hotel in Regensdorf, Switzerland, where they will take part in a physical test and be given specific instructions for the final tournament. This hotel will serve from 3 June as the base for the referee teams at UEFA EURO 2008™. From 26 June, those still involved in the final stages will move to the Renaissance Penta Hotel in Vienna, Austria.
Injury provisionsDuring the final tournament, any injured referee will be replaced by the fourth official at the match, and any injured assistant referee will be replaced by a fifth official who will come from the list of assistant referees not officiating at a game on that day. "The officials will continue to officiate at European club competition matches but will not be appointed to any international friendlies concerning the 16 teams qualified for the final tournament," said UEFA. Support for the team of officials will include a physio, a doctor, and a fitness coach who has devised a specific programme for the tournament.
Austria
1 Alex Manninger
2 Joachim Standfest
3 Martin Stranzl
4 Emanuel Pogatetz
5 Christian Fuchs
6 René Aufhauser
7 Ivica Vastic
8 Christoph Leitgeb
9 Roland Linz
10 Andreas Ivanschitz
11 Ümit Korkmaz
12 Ronald Gercaliu
13 Markus Katzer
14 György Garics
15 Sebastian Prödl
16 Jürgen Patocka
17 Martin Hiden
18 Roman Kienast
19 Jürgen Säumel
20 Martin Harnik
21 Jürgen Macho
22 Erwin Hoffer
23 Ramazan Özcan
Coach: Josef Hickersberger
Croatia
1 Stipe Pletikosa
2 Dario Šimić
3 Josip Šimunić
4 Robert Kovač
5 Vedran Ćorluka
6 Hrvoje Vejić
7 Ivan Rakitić
8 Ognjen Vukojević
9 Nikola Kalinić
10 Niko Kovač
11 Darijo Srna
12 Mario Galinović
13 Nikola Pokrivač
14 Luka Modrić
15 Dario Knežević
16 Jerko Leko
17 Ivan Klasnić
18 Ivica Olić
19 Niko Kranjčar
20 Igor Budan
21 Mladen Petrić
22 Danijel Pranjić
23 Vedran Runje
Coach: Slaven Bilić
Czech Republic
1 Petr Čech
2 Zdeněk Grygera
3 Jan Polák
4 Tomáš Galásek
5 Radoslav Kováč
6 Marek Jankulovski
7 Libor Sionko
8 Martin Fenin
9 Jan Koller
10 Václav Svěrkoš
11 Stanislav Vlček
12 Zdeněk Pospěch
13 Michal Kadlec
14 David Jarolím
15 Milan Baroš
16 Jaromír Blažek
17 Marek Matějovský
18 Tomáš Sivok
19 Rudolf Skácel
20 Jaroslav Plašil
21 Tomáš Ujfaluši
22 David Rozehnal
23 Daniel Zítka
Coach: Karel Brückner
France
1 Steve Mandanda
2 Jean-Alain Boumsong
3 Eric Abidal
4 Patrick Vieira
5 William Gallas
6 Claude Makelele
7 Florent Malouda
8 Nicolas Anelka
9 Karim Benzema
10 Sidney Govou
11 Samir Nasri
12 Thierry Henry
13 Patrice Evra
14 François Clerc
15 Lilian Thuram
16 Sébastien Frey
17 Sébastien Squillaci
18 Bafétimbi Gomis
19 Willy Sagnol
20 Jérémy Toulalan
21 Lassana Diarra
22 Franck Ribéry
23 Grégory Coupet
Coach: Raymond Domenech
Germany
1 Jens Lehmann
2 Marcell Jansen
3 Arne Friedrich
4 Clemens Fritz
5 Heiko Westermann
6 Simon Rolfes
7 Bastian Schweinsteiger
8 Torsten Frings
9 Mario Gómez
10 Oliver Neuville
11 Miroslav Klose
12 Robert Enke
13 Michael Ballack
14 Piotr Trochowski
15 Thomas Hitzlsperger
16 Philipp Lahm
17 Per Mertesacker
18 Tim Borowski
19 David Odonkor
20 Lukas Podolski
21 Christoph Metzelder
22 Kevin Kuranyi
23 René Adler
Coach: Joachim Löw
Greece
1 Antonios Nikopolidis
2 Giourkas Seitaridis
3 Christos Patsatzoglou
4 Nikolaos Spyropoulos
5 Traianos Dellas
6 Angelos Basinas
7 Georgios Samaras
8 Stylianos Giannakopoulos
9 Angelos Charisteas
10 Georgios Karagounis
11 Loukas Vintra
12 Konstantinos Chalkias
13 Alexandros Tzorvas
14 Dimitrios Salpingidis
15 Vassilios Torosidis
16 Sotirios Kyrgiakos
17 Theofanis Gekas
18 Ioannis Goumas
19 Paraskevas Antzas
20 Ioannis Amanatidis
21 Konstantinos Katsouranis
22 Alexandros Tziolis
23 Nikolaos Liberopoulos
Coach: Otto Rehhagel
Italy
1 Gianluigi Buffon
2 Christian Panucci
3 Fabio Grosso
4 Giorgio Chiellini
5 Fabio Cannavaro
6 Andrea Barzagli
7 Alessandro Del Piero
8 Gennaro Gattuso
9 Luca Toni
10 Daniele De Rossi
11 Antonio Di Natale
12 Marco Borriello
13 Massimo Ambrosini
14 Marco Amelia
15 Fabio Quagliarella
16 Mauro Camoranesi
17 Morgan De Sanctis
18 Antonio Cassano
19 Gianluca Zambrotta
20 Simone Perrotta
21 Andrea Pirlo
22 Alberto Aquilani
23 Marco Materazzi
Coach: Roberto Donadoni
Netherlands
1 Edwin van der Sar
2 André Ooijer
3 John Heitinga
4 Joris Mathijsen
5 Giovanni van Bronckhorst
6 Demy de Zeeuw
7 Robin van Persie
8 Orlando Engelaar
9 Ruud van Nistelrooy
10 Wesley Sneijder
11 Arjen Robben
12 Mario Melchiot
13 Henk Timmer
14 Wilfred Bouma
15 Tim de Cler
16 Maarten Stekelenburg
17 Nigel de Jong
18 Dirk Kuyt
19 Klaas Jan Huntelaar
20 Ibrahim Afellay
21 Ryan Babel
22 Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink
23 Rafael van der Vaart
Coach: Marco van Basten
Poland
1 Artur Boruc
2 Mariusz Jop
3 Jakub Wawrzyniak
4 Pawel Golański
5 Dariusz Dudka
6 Jacek Bąk
7 Euzebiusz Smolarek
8 Jacek Krzynówek
9 Maciej Żurawski
10 Łukasz Garguła
11 Marek Saganowski
12 Tomasz Kuszczak
13 Marcin Wasilewski
14 Michał Żewłakow
15 Michał Pazdan
16 Jakub Błaszczykowski
17 Wojciech Łobodziński
18 Mariusz Lewandowski
19 Rafał Murawski
20 Roger Guerreiro
21 Tomasz Zahorski
22 Łukasz Fabiański
23 Adam Kokoszka
Coach: Leo Beenhakker
Portugal
1 Ricardo
2 Paulo Ferreira
3 Bruno Alves
4 Bosingwa
5 Fernando Meira
6 Raul Meireles
7 Cristiano Ronaldo
8 Petit
9 Hugo Almeida
10 João Moutinho
11 Simão
12 Quim
13 Miguel
14 Jorge Ribeiro
15 Pepe
16 Ricardo Carvalho
17 Ricardo Quaresma
18 Miguel Veloso
19 Nani
20 Deco
21 Nuno Gomes
22 Rui Patrício
23 Hélder Postiga
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
Romania
1 Bogdan Lobonţ
2 Cosmin Contra
3 Răzvan Raţ
4 Gabriel Tamaş
5 Cristian Chivu
6 Mirel Rădoi
7 Florentin Petre
8 Paul Codrea
9 Ciprian Marica
10 Adrian Mutu
11 Răzvan Cociş
12 Marius Cornel Popa
13 Cristian Sapunaru
14 Sorin Ghionea
15 Dorin Goian
16 Bănel Nicoliţă
17 Cosmin Moti
18 Marius Niculae
19 Adrian Cristea
20 Nicolae Dică
21 Daniel Niculae
22 Ştefan Radu
23 Eduard Stăncioiu
Coach: Victor Piţurcă
Russia
1 Igor Akinfeev
2 Vasili Berezutski
3 Renat Yanbaev
4 Sergei Ignashevich
5 Aleksei Berezutski
6 Roman Adamov
7 Dmitri Torbinskiy
8 Denis Kolodin
9 Ivan Saenko
10 Andrei Arshavin
11 Sergei Semak
12 Vladimir Gabulov
13 Pavel Pogrebnyak
14 Roman Shirokov
15 Diniyar Bilyaletdinov
16 Vyacheslav Malafeev
17 Konstantin Zyrianov
18 Yuri Zhirkov
19 Roman Pavlyuchenko
20 Igor Semshov
21 Dmitri Sychev
22 Aleksandr Anyukov
23 Vladimir Bystrov
Coach: Guus Hiddink
Spain
1 Iker Casillas
2 Raúl Albiol
3 Fernando Navarro
4 Carlos Marchena
5 Carles Puyol
6 Andrés Iniesta
7 David Villa
8 Xavi Hernández
9 Fernando Torres
10 Cesc Fábregas
11 Joan Capdevila
12 Santi Cazorla
13 Andrés Palop
14 Xabi Alonso
15 Sergio Ramos
16 Sergio García
17 Daniel Güiza
18 Álvaro Arbeloa
19 Marcos Senna
20 Juanito Gutiérrez
21 David Silva
22 Rubén De La Red
23 Pepe Reina
Coach: Luis Aragonés
Sweden
1 Andreas Isaksson
2 Mikael Nilsson
3 Olof Mellberg
4 Petter Hansson
5 Fredrik Stoor
6 Tobias Linderoth
7 Niclas Alexandersson
8 Anders Svensson
9 Fredrik Ljungberg
10 Zlatan Ibrahimović
11 Johan Elmander
12 Rami Shaaban
13 Johan Wiland
14 Daniel Majstorovic
15 Andreas Granqvist
16 Kim Källström
17 Henrik Larsson
18 Sebastian Larsson
19 Daniel Andersson
20 Marcus Allbäck
21 Christian Wilhelmsson
22 Markus Rosenberg
23 Mikael Dorsin
Coach: Lars Lagerbäck
Switzerland
1 Diego Benaglio
2 Johan Djourou
3 Ludovic Magnin
4 Philippe Senderos
5 Stephan Lichtsteiner
6 Benjamin Huggel
7 Ricardo Cabanas
8 Gökhan Inler
9 Alexander Frei
10 Hakan Yakin
11 Marco Streller
12 Eren Derdiyok
13 Stéphane Grichting
14 Daniel Gygax
15 Gelson Fernandes
16 Tranquillo Barnetta
17 Christoph Spycher
18 Pascal Zuberbühler
19 Valon Behrami
20 Patrick Müller
21 Eldin Jakupovic
22 Johan Vonlanthen
23 Philipp Degen
Coach: Jakob Kuhn
Turkey
1 Rüştü Reçber
2 Servet Çetin
3 Hakan Balta
4 Gökhan Zan
5 Emre Belözoğlu
6 Mehmet Topal
7 Mehmet Aurélio
8 Nihat Kahveci
9 Semih Şentürk
10 Gökdeniz Karadeniz
11 Tümer Metin
12 Tolga Zengin
13 Emre Güngör
14 Arda Turan
15 Emre Aşık
16 Uğur Boral
17 Tuncay Şanlı
18 Kazım Kazım
19 Ayhan Akman
20 Sabri Sarıoğlu
21 Mevlüt Erdinç
22 Hamit Altıntop
23 Volkan Demirel
Coach: Fatih Terim
Czech Republic: 1883
Germany: 1929
Italy: 2003
Spain: 1953
Flamini returns as Vieira fears grow
Mathieu Flamini has been called up as cover by France coach Raymond Domenech amid growing concerns that Bleus captain Patrick Vieira will not be fit for UEFA EURO 2008™.
PrecautionThe midfielder, who has agreed to join AC Milan from Arsenal FC this summer, had been part of Domenech's provisional 30-man squad but failed to make the final cut. It now looks like he could get his chance after all after being recalled to the French training camp at Clairefontaine as a precaution.
Vieira, who turns 32 on 23 June, is suffering from an injury to his left thigh sustained on Friday. The FC Internazionale Milano midfielder will not be fit for the opening game against Romania a week today – and Domenech will wait until the final deadline to decide whether to replace him with Flamini. "I'm neither optimistic nor pessimistic," said the coach. "Just being attentive to whatever can happen and ensuring that the team is fully prepared for a section featuring four great teams. The team not at their prime at kick-off will be in trouble immediately."
Two caps Flamini, who has been capped twice by France, was initially dropped on 28 May along with Hatem Ben Arfa, Djibril Cissé, Mickaël Landreau, Alou Diarra, Julien Escudé and Philippe Mexès. Domenech, however, asked them to remain on standby as changes can be made before the team's opening game in case of injury.Rules and regulations According to Article 16.05 of the Regulations of the UEFA European Football Championship: "In the event of serious injury to a listed player before his team's first match in the final tournament, the player in question may be substituted only if a doctor from the UEFA Medical Committee and the team doctor concerned both confirm that the injury is sufficiently serious to prevent the player from taking part." Les Bleus play Colombia in their final friendly at the Stade de France on Tuesday.
Italy lose captain Cannavaro
The Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro has been ruled out of UEFA EURO 2008™ after rupturing ligaments in his left ankle during the Azzurri's first training session at their base in Modling, Austria yesterday. Coach Roberto Donadoni reacted by calling in the ACF Fiorentina defender Alessandro Gamberini.
Chiellini tackleThe 34-year-old Real Madrid CF centre-back, capped 116 times, sustained the knock following a tackle by fellow defender Giorgio Chiellini and was carried off the field on a stretcher. Italy doctor Paolo Zeppilli said he feared that the injury was "not minor" and so it proved as hospital tests confirmed the extent of the damage.
Big bootsGamberini joins up with the squad having won two previous caps. The 26-year-old may have big boots to fill – Cannavaro skippered Italy to FIFA World Cup glory in 2006 – but the former Bologna FC defender can take confidence from a consistent season during which he appeared 40 times in Serie A and the UEFA Cup for the Viola.
Confident The Chelsea FC right-back has been asked to step in and cover the team's problem position at left-back during the tournament and is taking it all in his stride. "I'm a professional and I have to be ready for anything," he said. "Clearly playing at left-back is a bit different than playing on the right, but I'm feeling confident because I know [coach Luiz Felipe] Scolari has confidence in me."
Ferreira, who joined Chelsea from FC Porto just before UEFA EURO 2004™, has endured a difficult season with injuries and after losing his starting place at club level he is determined to make the most of this chance with his country. "Of course, I like to play," he said. "I was maybe a bit unlucky that when I was having a good moment I got injured, but this competition is different. I feel very good and ready for the start of it."
Caution neededFerreira was also wary of raising expectations too much on the back of Portugal's recent successes, having reached the final four years ago as well as getting to the semi-finals at the 2006 FIFA World Cup. "We feel very proud of what we achieved in 2004 and 2006, but we are now in a different tournament in 2008," he stressed. "We have a lot of new players as well, and we have to just go by one step at a time."
In the Netherlands' UEFA EURO 2008™ warm-up matches, one player has caught the eye more than any other – winger Arjen Robben.
Sparking to lifeThe 24-year-old has been fast and direct, displaying a willingness to dribble past opponents whenever possible. Robben, who won the Primera División with Real Madrid CF alongside Wesley Sneijder and Ruud van Nistelrooy, returned to Oranje action in style against Denmark on 29 May. He set up Van Nistelrooy's opener in that 1-1 draw, then scored his ninth goal in 33 internationals against Wales four days later. It was form recalling his youthful best, before the injuries that limited him to 12 league starts in his first season with Real Madrid. Happy return"I feel very strong and fit now," the former FC Groningen, PSV Eindhoven and Chelsea FC flier told euro2008.com. "I have been out of international football because of injuries for far too long. I am delighted to be back with the squad after more than six months." Robben's previous outing for Marco van Basten's team had been the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against Slovenia on 17 October. He attributes his recovery to a tip from former FC Twente coach Fred Rutten, who contacted Robben's father to recommend an osteopath from his own playing days. "He worked with me for some time and unlocked certain parts of my back, and that has been a big help," said the wide man.
'On the right track'The collective picture, as well as the personal, gives Robben hope for the Netherlands' Group C tests to come. "We have put in some good performances, we have shown good things and we have improved where necessary, so we are on the right track," he said. "But whether that will be enough, we will only find out during the group stage." The Oranje's first game is against world champions Italy in Berne on Monday, before meetings with France on 13 June and Romania four days later. "Obviously Italy are a very strong footballing nation and, as a team, they are always very well-organised," the winger continued. "But they are not the only strong side at EURO and everyone is here to win it."
Cannavaro sympathyFor all his desire for Dutch success, Robben takes no pleasure in the misfortune of Italy captain and Real Madrid team-mate Fabio Cannavaro – ruled out of the tournament this week with an ankle injury. "I did not find that good news at all," he said. "It is very sad as I know what it means to miss out on things through injury. But Italy have enough quality to replace him, they can cope. The match against Italy is going to be about the small details, which in the end will decide who will win. It will not be easy for either side."
