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Soccer Overload
Western Conference Leader Loses to LA Galaxy

Seattle Sounders 3 - 0 Colorado Rapids Colorado’s eight matches without a loss came to the end when they got beaten 3-0 in Seattle. Fredy Montero was the first guy to put his team on the scoreboard in the 23rd minute. The whole action started with a corner kick by Freddie Ljungberg. Nate Jagua caught it with [...]
USA Almost Pulls Another Shocking Winner

2009 Confederation Cup Final USA 2 - 3 Brazil What a match. Brazil came from being 2-0 down to win the match and the Confederation Cup trophy. U.S. who lost to Brazil 3-0 in the group stage opened the match without fear of their opponents. The five time world champions found them-selves under attack and ten minutes into [...]
The Upset of The Year - USA Beats Spain

2009 South Africa Confederation Cup Semifinals USA 2-0 Spain The upset of the year. Yes the so so performing U.S. team, who barely beat Honduras at home knocked-out the number one team in the world, Spain out of Confederation’s Cup final. The team who was on verge of elimination early in the competition beat the mighty Spain 2-0. The [...]
Can the U.S. Break Spain’s Unbeaten Streak?

Confederation Cup 2009 continues on Wednesday and Thursday with semifinal matches. Everyone probably expected Spain and Brazil to reach the semifinals, but who could have thought that the USA and South Africa will be there too. Especially the U.S. team who had been struggling lately. But the heroic 3-0 win over Egypt gave the team back [...]
Houston Takes Over First Place in the Western Conference

Complete MLS standings after Saturday June 20 DC United lost 3-0 to the Colorado Rapids but managed to keep the top spot at the Eastern Conference. Houston took over first place in the Western Conference after Brian Ching’s late goal gave Dynamo a 1-1 tie. Meanwhile the bottom teams from both Conferences scored some much needed points. In the [...]

ESPNsoccernet Tottenham Hotspur
Sunderland 'challenge' interests Zokora - agent

soccernet.com

23 Jun 2009 | 3:30 pm

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Didier Zokora would be interested in a move to Sunderland, according to his agent.
Zokora too expensive, says Sevilla president

soccernet.com

19 Jun 2009 | 8:10 am

Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido has revealed Tottenham want more money than he is prepared to pay for midfielder Didier Zokora.
Robben's father rules out chance of Spurs deal

soccernet.com

17 Jun 2009 | 8:19 am

Real Madrid winger Arjen Robben will not be joining Tottenham Hotspur, according to the player's father.
Spurs finally agree compensation for Ramos

soccernet.com

15 Jun 2009 | 4:13 pm

Sevilla and Tottenham have reached an undisclosed compensation agreement over Juande Ramos' departure for White Hart Lane in October 2007.
Pavlyuchenko and Bent near Tottenham exit

Soccernet staff

15 Jun 2009 | 7:44 am

Tottenham Hotspur are expected to offload Roman Pavlyuchenko and Sarren Bent this summer with German club VfB Stuttgart and Premier League club Sunderland the expected destinations for the unsettled strikers.

BBC Premier League
Owen completes switch to Man Utd

3 Jul 2009 | 10:54 am

Manchester United seal the capture of free agent Michael Owen after he signs a two-year deal with the club.
Chelsea sign Man City's Sturridge

3 Jul 2009 | 9:42 am

Chelsea sign striker Daniel Sturridge from Premier League rivals Manchester City.
Gibbs extends contract at Arsenal

3 Jul 2009 | 9:42 am

Arsenal's England Under-21 left back Kieran Gibbs signs a contract extension at the Emirates Stadium.
Yakubu targets start of season

3 Jul 2009 | 9:24 am

Everton striker Yakubu is hoping to be fit for the start of next season.
Dalglish makes Liverpool return

3 Jul 2009 | 8:48 am

Kenny Dalglish returns to Liverpool to take up a senior role at the club's academy and act as a club ambassador.

Yahoo! Sports - World Soccer News
OFFICIAL: Michael Owen Joins Manchester United (Goal.com)

3 Jul 2009 | 11:37 am

The striker has joined the Red Devils in what is this summer's shock move in the transfer market.
The Full English: Forging On (Goal.com)

3 Jul 2009 | 11:37 am

As July hits, so does the transfer market. Goal.com’s Shane Evans discuss the latest buzz and mentions some good summer friendlies to look for in the latest edition of “The Full English.”
Owen completes suprise Manchester United move (Reuters)

3 Jul 2009 | 11:14 am

* Owen signs two-year deal
Owen joins Man United with 2-year deal (AP)

3 Jul 2009 | 11:08 am

Michael Owen has joined English champion Manchester United, a striking reversal of fortune for an injury-plagued forward who has been dropped from the national team by manager Fabio Capello. The 29-year-old, who has 40 goals in 89 international appearances, signed a two-year contract Friday. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid player was a free agent after his contract expired Tuesday at relegated...
Manchester United signing Michael Owen (Reuters)

3 Jul 2009 | 11:05 am

Factbox on striker Michael Owen who left Newcastle United for Premier League champions Manchester United on Friday.

uefa.com - News
Allofs builds for Bremen's future

3 Jul 2009 | 9:13 am

Werder Bremen general manager Klaus Allofs told uefa.com his side were "very proud to be participating in the first Europa League" as he looked ahead with confidence after last term's German Cup win.
Franco and Keita join Galatasaray

3 Jul 2009 | 9:01 am

Galatasaray AŞ have completed the double signing of goalkeeper Leo Franco from Club Atlético de Madrid and Olympique Lyonnais winger Kader Keita, with both agreeing three-year contracts.
Chelsea snare young striker Sturridge

3 Jul 2009 | 9:00 am

UEFA Champions League group-stage contenders Chelsea FC have increased their attacking options by signing Manchester City FC's 19-year-old frontman Daniel Sturridge on a four-year contract.
Europe lures Marcano to Villarreal

3 Jul 2009 | 8:51 am

New Villarreal CF defender Iván Marcano said the prospect of playing European football was one of the crucial factors in his decision to make a reported €6m switch from Real Racing Club.
United's Possebon loaned to Braga

3 Jul 2009 | 8:50 am

Twenty-year-old Brazilian-born midfielder Rodrigo Possebon has joined SC Braga on loan from Manchester United FC, with a view to developing his game in the UEFA Europa League this season.

ESPNsoccernet
Owen joins Man Utd

soccernet.com

3 Jul 2009 | 11:07 am

Michael Owen has been confirmed as a Manchester United player.
Chelsea sign striker Sturridge on four-year deal

Soccernet Staff

3 Jul 2009 | 9:24 am

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of striker Daniel Sturridge on a four-year contract.
Liverpool legend Dalglish takes dual role at Anfield

Soccernet Staff

3 Jul 2009 | 9:08 am

Kenny Dalglish is returning to Liverpool to take up a senior role in their academy and as a global ambassador for the club.
Wanderer Davis launches parting shot at Pompey

Soccernet Staff

3 Jul 2009 | 8:45 am

Bolton midfielder Sean Davis says he joined Wanderers because he felt he wasn't appreciated by the Portsmouth hierarchy.
Man Utd starlet Possebon joins Braga on loan

Soccernet Staff

3 Jul 2009 | 8:24 am

Manchester United midfielder Rodrigo Possebon will spend next season on loan at Sporting Braga, both clubs have confirmed.

BBC Sport | Football | World Edition
Ince reappointed as MK Dons boss

3 Jul 2009 | 11:50 am

Paul Ince returns to Milton Keynes Dons for a second spell as manager, one year after leaving to take over at Blackburn
Owen completes switch to Man Utd

3 Jul 2009 | 10:54 am

Manchester United seal the capture of free agent Michael Owen after he signs a two-year deal with the club.
Chelsea sign Man City's Sturridge

3 Jul 2009 | 9:42 am

Chelsea sign striker Daniel Sturridge from Premier League rivals Manchester City.
Gibbs extends contract at Arsenal

3 Jul 2009 | 9:42 am

Arsenal's England Under-21 left back Kieran Gibbs signs a contract extension at the Emirates Stadium.
Dalglish makes Liverpool return

3 Jul 2009 | 8:48 am

Kenny Dalglish returns to Liverpool to take up a senior role at the club's academy and act as a club ambassador.

Photostream from Daylife

uefa.com - FIFA World Cup
Alonso earns third spot for Spain

28 Jun 2009 | 10:31 am

European champions Spain secured third place at the FIFA Confederations Cup with a 3-2 win over hosts South Africa before Brazil claimed the trophy by beating the United States by the same score.
US halt Spain's record-breaking run

25 Jun 2009 | 8:04 am

Vicente Del Bosque said Spain are "not used to losing" after their 15-game winning run was ended when the United States became the first team in 36 attempts to defeat the European champions.
Brazil send Italy home early

21 Jun 2009 | 2:26 am

Brazil knocked world champions Italy out of the FIFA Confederations Cup with three quick goals just before half-time as Luis Fabiano struck twice to earn a 3-0 victory on Sunday.
Spain set new world record

20 Jun 2009 | 11:59 am

European champions Spain set a world record of 15 successive international wins by beating hosts South Africa 2-0 in the FIFA Confederations Cup on Saturday.
Italy fall to the Pharaohs

18 Jun 2009 | 2:51 pm

Marcello Lippi's Italy went down 1-0 to Egypt in their second game at the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa, Mohamed Homos heading the only goal five minutes before half-time.

BigSoccer
Official Gold Cup Thread [R]

Quinn 33

3 Jul 2009 | 11:27 am

The ball gets rolling tonight. 6:00 MT at the Toolbox - Canada vs. Jamaica Will Omar get the start up top?
Which Country is the Biggest Flop???

ITALIA1982

3 Jul 2009 | 11:21 am

Which Country is traditionally the Biggest Flop??? It is definetly between Spain, England and Holland, but which one?? Although Spain won the Euro, they are back to Flopping out at the first knockout stage, and England, well they finally reached a Final U21 UEFA their first since 93 only to flop 4-0 against Germany, or is it Holland?
Choosing a nation: Taking Stock

SoccerKowboy

3 Jul 2009 | 11:18 am

Let's look at the nation-switching issue from a USMNT depth perspective. The guys we "lost." We have depth at the back, though obviously no one of the potential or quality of Subotic. So losing him hurts our quality, but probably not our depth. Not getting Rossi hurts all around. We definitely could use help at the supporting striker spot. I put "lost" in quotes, because Rossi was never going to play for us, and Subotic is probably less American than a certain Austrian body builder. We also lost Bakare Soumare to Mali, but he would have most likely been a depth player for…
UEFA Champions League Matches Q1 2009/10

ITALIA1982

3 Jul 2009 | 11:11 am

As BSPCOCCER did not start it this year and we already missed Q1 R1, lets start at Q1 R2. Mods please sticky... Predict the scores. This competition is different than "UEFA Champions League Q1 Pool 2009/10" A note about the format of the scores posted in the prediction threads. There are a few formats that work well and a few that don't. 1) Always keep the order of the games listed EXACTLY as they are in the first post of the thread. This is THE most important thing for me. 2) Always post the two scores together separated by colon (. It doesn't matter whether the scores are before,…
MLS Week 16 Continuous Thread (Multiple R)

Ismitje

3 Jul 2009 | 11:04 am

I imagine we'll have something of an abbreviated discussion thread this weekend, given the overlap of Gold Cup and Fourth of July with the majority of the week's games. All times EDT. Friday San Jose at RSL, 10:00, DirectKick and Match Center Saturday DC at Columbus, 7:00, ESPN2 Chicago at Colorado, 9:00, DirectKick and Match Center New York at Dallas, 9:00, DirectKick and Match Center Houston at Kansas City, 9:00, DirectKick and Match Center New England at Los Angeles, 11:00, Fox Soccer Channel As always, enjoy the friendly banter.

BBC Sport | Football | UK Edition
Owen completes switch to Man Utd

3 Jul 2009 | 10:54 am

Manchester United seal the capture of free agent Michael Owen after he signs a two-year deal with the club.
Chelsea sign Man City's Sturridge

3 Jul 2009 | 9:42 am

Chelsea sign striker Daniel Sturridge from Premier League rivals Manchester City.
Gibbs extends contract at Arsenal

3 Jul 2009 | 9:42 am

Arsenal's England Under-21 left back Kieran Gibbs signs a contract extension at the Emirates Stadium.
Dalglish makes Liverpool return

3 Jul 2009 | 8:48 am

Kenny Dalglish returns to Liverpool to take up a senior role at the club's academy and act as a club ambassador.
Blades close in on triple signing

3 Jul 2009 | 8:38 am

Sheffield United start talks with Tommy Smith, John-Joe O'Toole and Michael McIndoe after having bids accepted for all three players

NYT > Soccer
Sports of The Times: For Soccer to Flourish in U.S., Its Doors Must Open

By WILLIAM C. RHODEN

3 Jul 2009 | 9:56 am

Cost remains an obstacle to fuller participation in soccer by young Hispanics and African-Americans, but support is beginning to grow in some communities.
Pledging Allegiance to the U.S.

By DAN FROSCH

3 Jul 2009 | 12:19 am

After a rule change, Edgar Castillo, who plays soccer professionally in Mexico, said he now wants to play internationally for the U.S. team.
Donovan: Beckham Has Become a Bad Teammate

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

3 Jul 2009 | 12:10 am

NEW YORK (AP) -- David Beckham has become a bad teammate on the Los Angeles Galaxy, according to Landon Donovan.
Focus on Soccer for a New York Film Festival

By JACK BELL

2 Jul 2009 | 9:37 pm

The Kicking and Screening International Film Festival from July 14-18 will include movies about the 1998 French World Cup team and the New York Cosmos.
Jones Could Join US National Team Later This Year

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

2 Jul 2009 | 6:10 pm

NEW YORK (AP) -- Midfielder Jermaine Jones could join the U.S. national team later this year, possibly with defender Edgar Castillo.

USATODAY.com Soccer - Top Stories
Ten years after soccer World Cup win, women's sports gain respect

2 Jul 2009 | 11:21 am

We're in the midst of a historic sports anniversary, but if you're thinking hard about what it might be and coming up empty, ...
Brazil dethrones Spain atop FIFA rankings; USA 12th

1 Jul 2009 | 7:23 am

Brazil has ended Spain's one-year reign at the top of FIFA's rankings, rewarded for its comeback win over the United States in ...
USA soccer squad boasts different look

30 Jun 2009 | 9:37 pm

After a stirring run to the Confederations Cup final, the best U.S. finish in a global men's soccer event, the U.S. team returns ...
Brandi Chastain gets her famous sports bra back

30 Jun 2009 | 7:26 pm

When the short-lived Sports Museum of America in New York City filed for bankruptcy this spring, the feds seized hundreds of ...
'Special edge' for Cuban defector Alonso

30 Jun 2009 | 7:24 pm

Crying isn't usually part of Osvaldo Alonso's game.

Soccer By Ives
Bradley discusses Torres

Ives Galarcep

3 Jul 2009 | 11:16 am

Photo by ISIphotos.com Why hasn't Jose Francisco Torres been playing for the U.S. national team lately? That question has been on the minds of many observers who have wondered about Torres' lack of…
The story of Eric Frimpong

Ives Galarcep

3 Jul 2009 | 10:35 am

If you have never heard the name Eric Frimpong (pictured in blue), then chances are you aren't familiar with his story. It is a sad story of a soccer player who seemingly had the world at his feet before a series of events changed his life forever. ESPN the Magazine's Sam Alipour has written about Frimpong's story, and it is a must-read.
Owen to Manchester United a done deal

Ives Galarcep

3 Jul 2009 | 10:18 am

Photo by…
Gold Cup: Adu's chance to shine

GianFranco Panizo

3 Jul 2009 | 9:00 am

by GIANFRANCO PANIZO Freddy Adu was forced to watch every minute of the U.S. national team's dream run to the final of the Confederations Cup from the bench. That most likely will not be the case for him in the Gold Cup. Coming off a disappointing season with Monaco, Adu is expected to see significant playing time for the U.S. throughout the CONCACAF tournament and he will also most likely be handed the keys to the team's offense. This opportunity will be vital for Adu as it will give him a chance to prove his…
You write the caption: The Beckham-Donovan edition

Ives Galarcep

3 Jul 2009 | 8:00 am

While nobody ever accused Landon Donovan and David Beckham of being best friends, their already awkward relationship isn't likely to ever blossom into BFF status after Donovan's revelations in Grant Wahl's soon-to-be-released book, the Beckham Experiment. We will have to wait a few weeks before Beckham returns to the Galaxy and the awkwardness reaches record heights at Home Depot Center, there is no reason we can't begin to have some fun with it now. With that in mind, here is the newest You Write the Caption: The Donovan-Beckham Edition:…

Football news, match reports and fixtures | guardian.co.uk
Owen arrives at United for medical ahead of shock move

3 Jul 2009 | 7:39 am

• Owen expected to join United if he comes through medical• Striker has left Carrington for more tests at a hospitalMichael Owen is expected to complete his shock move to Manchester United this evening once final medical checks have been conducted. The former Newcastle and England striker spent the day at the club's Carrington training complex but left early in the afternoon in a black Audi 4x4 to attend a south Manchester hospital for more tests.Owen, whose contract with the Magpies expired at the end of June, had a medical examination yesterday to assess the troublesome knee which has…
City refuse to give up in pursuit of Terry

Daniel Taylor

3 Jul 2009 | 10:19 am

• Players in City dressing room on good terms with defender• Tribunal fee for Daniel Sturridge could be a factorManchester City are to persist in their attempts to sign John Terry amid a growing sense within the club that the England captain is seriously considering his future at Chelsea and could be tempted by a salary that would almost double his current pay.Mark Hughes, the City manager, has been encouraged by a variety of messages from associates of the player, the most prominent being one of Terry's international team-mates. There are several players inside the City dressing room who…
Birmingham set to gamble on Barton

Louise Taylor

3 Jul 2009 | 8:44 am

• Alan Shearer keen to move midfielder on if appointed• Barton's £65,000 a week wages present stumbling blockBirmingham City manager Alex McLeish is keen to take Joey Barton off Newcastle's hands – but only on an initial season-long loan with a view to a permanent transfer. Barton had been suspended indefinitely by Alan Shearer at the end of last season but, with Newcastle still managerless, he has been allowed to resume pre-season training. However, if and when Shearer finally takes charge his first act will be to move Barton on. Birmingham could offer a mutually satisfactory escape…
Featuring this swivel stunner and more

Paul Doyle

3 Jul 2009 | 3:53 am

From Jared Borgetti's turn and swivel to poor old Chris Brass, here's half a dozen spectacular headers1) Marco Van Basten (MILAN v Real Madrid, 1989 European Cup semi-final, first leg)It was 20 years since Milan had won the European Cup and here they were in the first leg of the 1989 semi-final trailing 1-0 to Real Madrid, who, despite their dominance in Spain, were desperate to end an even longer barren run on the continent. Not desperate enough, however, to bother preventing Mauro Tassotti from ambling 50 yards forward from his right-back berth. Or maybe they knew the defender would do…
Wenger admits keeping tabs on Chamakh

3 Jul 2009 | 3:48 am

• Arsenal manager has made Bordeaux striker top priority• Frenchman says Real Madrid distort pricesArsène Wenger is confident Emmanuel Adebayor will remain at Arsenal but he has revealed he would consider buying the Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh as a possible replacement.The future of the Togo striker is yet to be resolved one way or another with Milan continuing their interest following a public pursuit last summer before the 25-year-old agreed a new deal to stay at the Emirates Stadium. Adebayor, however, has made it clear he would be happy to remain and lead the Gunners' challenge…

U.S. Men's National Team News
U.S. Men's National Team Head Coach Bob Bradley and President Sunil Gulati Discuss the Upcoming 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup

2 Jul 2009 | 6:45 pm

U.S. Men's National Team head coach Bob Bradley and President Sunil Gulati discuss the upcoming 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup via a media teleconference.
U.S. to Open 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup Against Grenada in Seattle on July 4

2 Jul 2009 | 6:37 pm

Less than one week after completing a historic run to the final of the FIFA Confederations Cup, the U.S. Men’s National Team begins its quest for a third-consecutive CONCACAF Gold Cup championship when it takes on Grenada on Saturday, July 4, at 6 p.m. PT.
CONCACAF Announces Provision For Teams Competing In Confederations Cup and Gold Cup to Expand Roster

2 Jul 2009 | 9:44 am

On Tuesday, CONCACAF announced a provision that allows any team participating in the FIFA Confederations Cup and the CONCACAF Gold Cup in the same year to expand its Gold Cup roster from 23 to 30 players. The provision was provided due to the extreme circumstances that teams face due to playing in back-to-back tournaments.
U.S.-Brazil Postmatch Quotes

28 Jun 2009 | 3:59 pm

Coach Bob Bradley and Players Talk After Losing to Brazil 3-2 in 2009 Confederations Cup Final
U.S. Men's National Team Earns Best-Ever Finish in a FIFA Competition With a Second Place Performance at 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup

28 Jun 2009 | 3:52 pm

The U.S. Men’s National Team led the five-time world champion for 64 minutes in their first ever final in major FIFA tournament, but eventually fell as Brazil scored three unanswered goals for a 3-2 victory at Ellis Park in Johannesburg at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.

U.S. Women's National Team News
Remembering '99: Karina LeBlanc

2 Jul 2009 | 9:14 am

I had just ended my sophomore year at the University of Nebraska and, like most people, I had no idea that the World Cup for women would create such an attraction. It was my first World Cup participation as a Canadian National Team member. Being a part of such an energized historical journey, I went from competing against the USA women, to admiring my opponents. I found myself becoming the fan watching each game with great anticipation. In the final when the USA won, it was the first time that I honestly experienced pride for “my competitors”.
Remembering '99: Keeley Dowling

1 Jul 2009 | 9:32 am

It wouldn’t be a day in the wide world of women’s soccer without a reference to the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup – a historical event of sorts for reasons that span far beyond the words on this simple page. Looking back on myself as that young, impressionable 16-year-old ball girl, I often reminisce about how much that 90 minutes of soccer impacted, rocked and, thus, changed my entire life as I knew it. I stood on the sidelines and watched as my idols not simply passed the ball up and down the field, but also captured my heart and soul with their every step.
Remembering '99: Julianne Sitch

30 Jun 2009 | 9:20 am

The 1999 Women’s World Cup practically transpired in my backyard. With the simple purchase of 6 tickets, my dad, Richard, inadvertently bought my best friend, Deb Benakis, her parents and myself not just access into a small athletic event, but rather an opportunity to bear witness to a sporting event that has since proven to be among the most pivotal in women’s soccer history.
Remembering '99: Steffi Jones

26 Jun 2009 | 9:09 am

How could I ever forget 1999? It was my first World Cup and also the first and only time I scored a goal at the premier event in women’s football. When you’re called up to represent your country at the World Cup you realize that all the sacrifices you’ve made are not in vain. On June 20, 1999, the day of our World Cup debut against Italy, I was amazed: The Rose Bowl was huge, with everything organized to perfection, and there was an enthusiastic crowd cheering both teams. Besides, I was playing for Germany in my father’s country.
Remembering '99: Tina Ellertson

25 Jun 2009 | 9:15 am

The 1999 World Cup brought me closer to soccer. June 23rd, 1999 my sister and my club team went to Civic Stadium in Portland, Oregon to watch China take on Ghana in a group stage game. I had just turned 17 years old.

Major League Soccer News
FC Dallas facing a "must-win" at home

Steve Hunt

3 Jul 2009 | 10:19 am

With the New York Red Bulls' road woes well documented, FC Dallas look to have a great chance of logging their third home win of 2009 this Saturday at Pizza Hut Park.
Saunders ready to step in for Ricketts

Larry Morgan

3 Jul 2009 | 9:34 am

The Galaxy welcome back their captain and leading scorer, Landon Donovan, for Saturday's game against New England, but they also lose goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts, who was called up to the Jamaican national team.
Fill-ins will need to shine for Wizards

Curtis Kitchen

3 Jul 2009 | 9:11 am

Picture this: Your team just emerged from one of the toughest scheduling stretches any team in MLS will face this season. The team captain has left for national team duties, and your coach has called on you to step up. Oh, and it will be the first MLS game of your career.
Dynamo face tough test against Wizards

2 Jul 2009 | 5:05 pm

The Kansas City Wizards are looking to start a second-half run up the Eastern Conference standings, but it begins with a tough test as MLS overall leaders Houston Dynamo make an Independence Day visit.
Fire's Pause joins US Gold Cup squad

Kent McDill

2 Jul 2009 | 4:44 pm

The Fire will play their first MLS game of the season without Logan Pause because the sixth-year pro has been called to the national team camp in Seattle in anticipation of the upcoming CONCACAF Gold Cup. It is his first national team call-up, and he is obviously pleased.

du Nord
The boss men speak

Demko

2 Jul 2009 | 2:18 pm

Bob Bradley and Sunil Gulati briefed reporters this afternoon on the eve of the Gold Cup. Here's some of the more interesting tidbits:On the team's approach to the Gold Cup:Bob Bradley: "Our goal clearly is to defend our championship. We know that at times there are many different factors that get considered when putting a roster together. But once we are together our focus is how we try to go about our business, the way we play. This is an important tournament, the championship of our confederation, and we are excited about defending our title."On Freddy Adu's lack of playing time with his…
USA Gold Cup Viewing In The Twin Cities

brucio

2 Jul 2009 | 4:32 am

Hey Everyone in the Twin Cities Metro area!Come join your fellow local fanaticos watching the USA participate in our regional championship - the CONCACAF Gold Cup.Plus, it's a great way to make new FIF - Friends in Futbol.The 3 group stage games:-Sat Jul 4USA v Grenada - 8pm Central (viewing delayed until 10pm - after MN Thunder game ends)-Wed Jul 8USA v Honduras - 8pm Central-Sat Jul 11USA v Haiti - 6pm CentralThe Sweetwater Grill and Barat the Best Western Kelly Inn161 Saint Anthony AveI-94 & MarionSt Paul(651) 224-6373All ages welcome!Map
Some News for Wed Jul 1

brucio

1 Jul 2009 | 3:04 pm

STARTERSLast night was a huge night of upsets in the US Open Cup as Harrisburg, Wilmington, Charleston & Rochester all knocked off MLS sides! Hooray Beer! Sadly my Thunder were dumped out after the game ended 3-3 and we lost 4-2 on PK's to Kansas City (Damn!).dNHappy Canada Day! (Yes I am coming around on this country. Slowly.)MLSYesterday on the Pardon The Interruption TV show host Michael Wilbon and guest Bob Ryan discussed the first excerpt from Grant Wahl's forthcoming David Beckman book in which Landon Donovan takes a hammer to Becks. Wilbon & Ryan looooooooooooved it. Download…
Some News for Wed Jun 30

brucio

30 Jun 2009 | 9:49 am

STARTERSI look forward to seeing all of you Twin Citians at the US Open Cup game between the Minnesota Thunder and Kansas City Wizards at 7:30 tonight! Let's hope for greatness.dNHere it is! The first excerpt from Grant Wahl's forthcoming book on David Beckman was posted today at Sports Illustrated. Oh how those English tabloids are going to have a field day with this one!MLSSeattle forward Nate Jaqua has been named Player Of The Week.dNThe Seattle Post Intelligencer reports on last weekends Sounders game which kicked off only 90 minutes after the USA v Brazil game did. Was there any effect…
The du Nord Question & Answer Session With ... Kevin Hartman

Demko

30 Jun 2009 | 8:56 am

Interview conducted and edited by Paul DemkoKevin Hartman is Major League Soccer's all-time saves leader. He won two league titles with the Los Angeles Galaxy before getting traded to the Kansas City Wizards in 2006. Hartman's team is currently enduring a hectic span with four games in eight days. On Sunday the Wizards got bounced out of Superliga by Santos Laguna. Tonight they will visit the Minnesota Thunder in the U.S. Open Cup. I caught up with Hartman yesterday afternoon at the Hyatt hotel in downtown Minneapolis. What follows is an edited transcript of our conversation. du Nord: Your…

Thats On Point: The Web Site
Speaking of fireworks...

Cardillo

3 Jul 2009 | 8:10 am

As you probably know, I don't just post silly quickee links. Not my style. In honor of the birth of our great nation, I felt like sharing. 1. Can 2011 get here quick? In case you missed it, the Seattle Sounders/Portland Timbers U.S. Open Cup game was an outlier for a couple reasons, namely people actually were excited for an Open Cup game. Just check out some of the stuff on Portland message
Is it still Gold?

Cardillo

2 Jul 2009 | 5:08 pm

"There's gold out there I tells ya, gold." -- colloquial prospector talk, possible from 'The Treasure of the Sierra Madre' So...here we are, the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup, a.k.a. a poor excuse for Jack Warner to pick a man's pocket every two years. There's probably no way to sugar coat or dilly-dance around the fact that in the wake of the Confederations Cup last month, this tournament is going to
Breaking Bad ... or Good?

Cardillo

28 Jun 2009 | 4:00 pm

"You can try the best you canIf you try the best you canThe best you can is good enough" -- Radiohead, 'Optimistic' As explained in the quickee recap post, I needed to walk this one off. There was simply so much swirling after Brazil's nearly epic 3-2 comeback over the U.S. at the 2009 Confederations Cup final that it was like watching a mindblowing 'Lost' episode. I needed to hit pause on the
Tough Kaka

Cardillo

28 Jun 2009 | 1:25 pm

Word to the wise, never start writing a blog post at the halftime of a game. Up 2-0 at the half I was digging up video of Benny Feilhaber's 2007 Gold Cup Golazo. I was examining all the Facebook status updates from people who usually don't give a lick about the game. I was trying to figure out a way to gauge how historic this match would be, even if its a tournament that exists somewhat inside a
Into the flood again

Cardillo

26 Jun 2009 | 12:45 pm

"To be the man, you gotta beat the man. Whoo." -- Ric FlairIn the wake of the Wednesday's crazy 2-0 win by the U.S. over Spain in the Confederations Cup semifinals, we've seen the term 'Miracle on Grass' tossed around. Pardon me while I go vomit. Not to turn this post into another media examination, but drawing comparisons to the 1980 U.S. hockey win over the Soviets at the Lake Placid Olympiad

EPL Talk
Kenny Dalglish Returns To Liverpool FC

Ethan Armstrong

3 Jul 2009 | 10:17 am

King Kenny is back! After a 18 year hiatus, the man many hail as Liverpool’s greatest ever player, Kenny Dalglish, will rejoin Liverpool Football Club. From the club’s official site: “Dalglish will assume a senior role at the Liverpool Academy and will also act as a Club ambassador working with the commercial side of the business around the world.” Jamie Carragher had already sparked Liverpool supporters’ hopes for this possibility when he suggested the idea of Dalglish’s return in his 2008 autobiography: “After the takeover was complete, I’d…
Michael Owen to Man United – Gamble or not?

Tom Mallows

3 Jul 2009 | 5:28 am

£56 million here… £80 million there… this summer has been dominated by the outlandish spending of a select few, with transfer records tumbling at every turn. But one deal that will grab most of the headlines could well be a free transfer. Michael Owen, labelled a fallen idol, a faded star, even a has-been by the media, looks set to complete a dramatic move to Manchester United. Just a week ago Owen’s options looked far more limited, he had admitted in an interview with Sky Sports that staying at Newcastle wasn’t an option, but the only two clubs publicly declaring an interest were…
Real Madrid Storms Transfer Market - Can English Clubs Cope?

Ethan Armstrong

2 Jul 2009 | 7:24 am

Barcelona winning everything last season could have deeper repercussions for the Premier League beyond felling Manchester United in the Champions League. They’ve awoken the sleeping spending giant that is Real Madrid. Desperate to overtake the unstoppable Barça, Real Madrid have obliterated all transfer records and don’t look anywhere near stopping. The super nova has exploded and now every big English transfer prospect looks at risk of sliding into an Iberian black hole before United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, City can grab their targets by the shoestrings and heave them…
Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 Trailer In HD

The Gaffer

2 Jul 2009 | 4:36 am
Karim Benzema Transfer A Blow To Manchester United’s Summer Plans

Rory Tevlin

1 Jul 2009 | 2:24 pm

Just when you thought Real Madrid had sated their appetite for extravagant attacking ability in the transfer market, with the signings of Ronaldo and Kaka, they swoop for one of French football’s most prized assets in a deal reported to be worth up to 41 million euro. The signing of Karim Benzema from Lyon takes Real Madrid’s summer spending past the 200 million euro mark and into the realm of pure fantasy, if it had not reached that point already! Returning President Florentino Perez has left no doubt as to his intentions with the signing of three massive attacking talents,…

101 Great Goals
Betting Preview: Columbus Crew v DC United (MLS)

Arthur Antunes Coimbra

3 Jul 2009 | 12:47 pm

Columbus Crew v DC United, MLS, July 5, 2009 The highlight of the next round of matches in the MLS sees a top of the table contest in the Eastern Conference as the current MLS champions, the Columbus Crew, host DC United at the unimaginatively named Columbus Crew Stadium. The celebrations of the 4th of July Independence day should give a boost to the matchday atmosphere with the crowd set to be treated to a special post-game fireworks display to close out the holiday weekend. The Crew arrive to the game after claiming a narrow home win over the New York Red Bulls last weekend. The match was…
Betting Preview: Kawasaki Frontale v Kashima Antlers (J-League)

Arthur Antunes Coimbra

3 Jul 2009 | 12:35 pm

Kawasaki Frontale v Kashima Antlers, J-League, July 5, 2009 This match pits first-place against second in the J-League in a match that should be worth watching. This games is also a great opportunity for Kawasaki Frontale to try and close the eight point gap on the Antlers at the top of the table. Both teams have continued the fine form they showed last season when the Antlers won the league three points ahead of Kawasaki Frontale (pictured). Having scoop the title for the past two successive seasons the Antlers are without question the big dog in Japanese football and they already look like…
Big Trouble in Little China: Jonathan Vergara slaps the stuffing out of an opponent

Arthur Antunes Coimbra

3 Jul 2009 | 4:23 am

Mad footage from Thursday’s action in the Chinese Super League as one of the most violent attacks seen for quite some time lead to Jonathan Vergara’s dismissal in the last minute of the match. The setting was the fixture between Beijing Guoan (in the green) and the Dalian Shide (in the blue), in which Lu Jiang’s last-gasp goal secured a hard-fought victory for Beijing as the capital club opened up a two-point lead at the top of the Chinese Super League. After seeing his team throw away a point at the death, Dalian’s Jonathan Vergara lost the plot by unnecessarily…
Manchester United target Michael Owen is crushed in the Dragons’ Den (video)

Arthur Antunes Coimbra

3 Jul 2009 | 3:41 am

Enjoy!
The Firm trailer

Ronaldo Assis de Moreira

3 Jul 2009 | 3:25 am

Yes, another hooligan film. Here is the trailer for The Firm. And, here is the blurb from the people behind the latest hooligan flick: “Warner Bros. Pictures and Vertigo Films are proud to announce the release of THE FIRM, in cinemas 25th September. Loosely adapted from Alan Clarke’s 1989 classic TV film, Nick Love’s film is set earlier in the 80’s and retells a similar story to the original – but from a different character’s point of view. The film centers on Dom, a young wannabe football casual, who get drawn into the charismatic but dangerous world of the firm’s top boy,…

This Is American Soccer, US Soccer, MNT, WNT, and MLS
chris bosh had the best time

Adam

24 Jun 2009 | 8:51 pm

Steve Nash and friends throwdown for the showdown in chinatown, take 2 It’s never as good as the first time. The rain, the grand stand bleachers, the wet turf, the steady cam man on the field, the crane cam hovering over the crowd. What was an underground experiment last year became the mainstream mainstay as Steve Nash and Claudio Reyna hosted their 2nd annual Showdown in Chinatown to benefit each of their namesake charities. The line-ups, tweaked a bit from last year, will star in a Fox Soccer Channel documentary about the game. That’s not to say it won’t be the best…
the unchosen ones

Adam

10 Jun 2009 | 8:52 am

When Sports Illustrated Senior Editor Mark Mravic, 46, interviewed for a job at the magazine in 1996, they asked him what he was interested in. He said “soccer,” to which the reply came: “Well, we really don’t do a lot of soccer.” More than a decade later he’s finally the soccer editor. Now will the coverage improve? SI’s 2002 World Cup preview, in which Clint Mathis graced the cover and was heralded as the new face of American soccer, was the “least-read and third lowest-rated cover story measured since 1995.” Four years later, the 2006 World Cup preview…
kicking and screening

Adam

29 May 2009 | 10:10 am

foreign failure (and a blind date) nets New York a soccer film festival in july In a soccer game, as in a movie, a narrative unfolds for the viewer. There are action scenes and sad scenes, comedy and drama. But unlike other sports that stop and start, aiding in the collection of immense data, soccer builds a non-stop story that can challenge the viewer—full of dialogue that may seem meaningless until the entire tale unfolds. And even then you may not get a final payoff; as fans of soccer and Woody Allen films know, you must enjoy the ride. Life follows the same path, so I guess it’s no…
fleet week football

Adam

21 May 2009 | 2:44 pm

NY Red Bulls face off against the Navy’s USS Roosevelt to help kick-off Fleet Week A celebration of the U.S. Armed Forces held around Memorial Day in New York, Fleet Week offered up one of the best PR events Red Bull has ever held and a precious photo opportunity. Under blazing sun cut by the riverside breeze, the teams played two small-sided games on the flight deck of the former USS Intrepid, (now a museum) which sits docked along the Hudson River on the west side of midtown Manhattan. Sadly few fans turned out for the weekday afternoon event, but TIAS was there… —- not…
the Cosmos, for free!

Adam

4 May 2009 | 9:51 pm

Cosmos’ owner wants bygones to be bygones, and someone to take the team into MLS In the May issue of Britain’s FourFourTwo magazine Welsh midfielder and onetime New Englander Andy Dorman lists his MLS highlights as such: Winning the US Open Cup, playing against Cuauhtemoc Blanco, and “also, one time New York brought the old Cosmos players over and I met Pele and Beckenbauer. Not much tops that.” You can’t go very long in the American soccer world before running into the Cosmos, be it through celebration of their successes or condemnation of their part in the NASL collapse. Today…

The Beautiful Game
Young innocent Ronaldo

3 Jul 2009 | 10:06 am

Great find by Futbolita. Looks to be a youth soccer ID card.How far he's come...
New racism deterrents

3 Jul 2009 | 8:51 am

UEFA tightened up the rules a little bit and came out with some new guidelines for the next inevitable bouts of racist behavior in European football:Step 1: Have the PA announcer demand an end to it.Step 2: Pick up the ball and stop the game for 5-10 minutes and send the teams to the locker rooms.Step 3: Abandon the game.Sounds good, except all the racists now know they can chant their garbage through step two...
Sounders FC sign Leonardo Gonzalez

3 Jul 2009 | 7:32 am

He's a 28-year-old left back from Costa Rica.He won't join Seattle until after representing his country in the Gold Cup -- which could be though most of July.I'm excited. An upgrade at left back could make this team that much more dangerous.Good move. Of course, we expect nothing less from the front office.
VIDEO: Impressive, stupid own goal

3 Jul 2009 | 6:15 am

Oh man. Idiot. Schmuck. Klutz. Putz.Not a committed defensive effort there.
Michael Owen a Red Devil?

3 Jul 2009 | 4:57 am

Reports and rumors abound that the wandering soul Michael Owen is headed to Old Trafford.Great news for the 29 year old.Not so much for Manchester United fans. He certainly won't make many forget about Ronaldo or Tevez...Definitely a shocker.

Yanks Abroad
Smelling like a rose

3 Jul 2009 | 8:17 am

With a few days to put South Africa in the rear view and ruminate on the takeaways from the Confederations Cup, I find that it's not the disappointing loss in the final that most sticks in my mind.
Preview: Mariehamn - VPS

3 Jul 2009 | 8:12 am

A tough task awaits VPS on Sunday as they travel south to the Aland Islands to take on IFK Mariehamn at Wiklof Holding Arena.
Preview: St. Patrick's - Shamrock Rovers

3 Jul 2009 | 12:16 am

Returning from their summer break, Ryan Guy and St. Patrick's Athletic host Shamrock Rovers as the American and his mates look to head up the standings.
Preview: Weekend Norwegian action

2 Jul 2009 | 10:42 pm

Mikkel Diskerud and Stabaek will expect to pick up an important three points on the road while Connor Tobin and Nybergsund will try to work their way into the Adeccoligaen's top three.
Bradley adds seven to Gold Cup roster

2 Jul 2009 | 10:41 am

US head coach Bob Bradley has announced seven additions to the Gold Cup roster after CONCACAF allowed the Americans to name a 30-man roster following their Confederation's Cup participation.

WVHooligan - Soccer Blog
Sounders Sign Costa Rican Defender

WVHooligan

2 Jul 2009 | 4:39 pm

A move that I absolutely will pay off for Sigi Schmid has just become official from what I am hearing out west. Seattle Sounders FC have signed Costa Rican defender Leonardo Gonzalez. Gonzalez’s... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]
USOC Quarterfinal Schedule Released

WVHooligan

2 Jul 2009 | 2:25 pm

Just got word that the USSF has released the dates and locations of the next round of the 2009 US Open Cup along with the possible semi-final pairings. Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinal... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]
MLS Weekend Preview: Week 16

WVHooligan

2 Jul 2009 | 1:01 pm

I love a good holiday weekend. That’s why these previews are coming today instead of it’s usual Friday timeslot. Even with the holiday comes loads of extras for me to be doing and sitting... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]
Confederations Cup Players Added To Gold Cup Roster

WVHooligan

2 Jul 2009 | 11:07 am

Instead of bringing up some more MLS guys looking for their first shot with the Nats or some guys in need of finding their form again, Bob Bradley has called on seven Confederation Cup players to... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]
In Defense Of Sacha Kljestan

WVHooligan

2 Jul 2009 | 10:53 am

Editor’s Note: Geoff Reid appears on WVHooligan.com each week. Today he is back with his defense of a guy that has been kicked around quite a bit lately, Chivas USA and US national team... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

World Cup Blog - Euro 2008 Championships
Edgar Davids: active in integraties issues

Jan

31 Dec 1969 | 4:00 pm

Seventeen years in a row, Edgar Davids spent his days on a football pitch. Last season, he was no longer. Retired? And then suddenly, yesterday, a piece in the news on him, in which he said he wanted to see where he was, physically. "I want to train again. I
Spain 3-2 South Africa; Third Place isn't such a Great Place

Anthony

31 Dec 1969 | 4:00 pm

Sorry for the delay on this but I was on vacation and really didn't have much access to the blog. But like they say, better late than never - here it goes. Despite not being able to write anything about the match, I definitely did watch it and although it
Intro: The Next Buffon?

Paul

31 Dec 1969 | 4:00 pm

Continuing Julian's posts, here's an intro on one of our highly touted young goal keepers: Vincenzo Fiorillo
Donnerwetter start Louis van Gaal!

Jan

31 Dec 1969 | 4:00 pm

Louis van Gaal's first working day in Munich has been hailed by the German media. The new coach received compliments for his "warm words" during his press presentation. The papers were also very positive about his command over the German language and the way he managed the first training. In
Intro: Salvatore Bocchetti

Julian

31 Dec 1969 | 4:00 pm

Our beloved Azzurri is in a time of transition; I've said that, you've read that on other sites, and you probably think that, too. But what does that really mean? In essence, older players are going to be let go and younger players are going to be brought into the national team setup. "Intro" is a new series of posts that I'm doing to, well, introduce players that are pretty likely to be a part of the Azzurri sometime into the not too distant future. First up is U-21 star defender, Salvatore Bocchetti.

The Offside
Corinthians Get Some Good PR, Learn How To Celebrate & Andre Santos Has Snoop Dogg Bling

chris

3 Jul 2009 | 8:00 am

A couple weeks ago Corinthians were the shame of Brazil, desperate for some type of good news. Bad celebrations, fans killing rival fans, setting more things alight and on-pitch throw-downs with the youth team (with poor fighting technique at that) read like playing Corinthians is akin to playing in a conflict zone. How better for [...]
Transfer Talk: What’s Plan F Again?

chris

3 Jul 2009 | 5:30 am

Aston Villa, Tottenham, Fulham, Milan…Abby Clancy - what the hell is Peter Crouch’s appeal? Decent targetman, but what about the aesthetics? Football’s a game of beauty - hence that whole beautiful game thing - and Peter Crouch is, well, he’s just not. He’s a 200cm skeleton bumbling up and down the pitch in something of [...]
Michael Owen To Sign With Manchester United. (Yes, You Read That Correctly.)

chris

2 Jul 2009 | 8:22 pm

And no, it’s not FC United of Manchester as some would believe. It’s the Red Devils. Old Trafford. Three time defending Premier League champions. That one. Two days ago it was thought that Michael Owen would be signing for a team which was aiming for the Europa League, not world domination. His stint at Newcastle was [...]
Daily Dose: July 2nd, 2009.

chris

2 Jul 2009 | 8:00 pm

Stuff to read while you put a ridiculous goal into the back of the net…your net…… Real Madrid continue their summer of spending with an American. (Three Match Ban) The Michael Owen gallery is brilliant, if a bit premature. (guardian) The darkest cloud looming over Serie A is named Luciano. (Serie Aaaaargh!) Another Seattle MLS player accused of sexual [...]
Lowering Expectations To Darius Vassell-Like Levels

chris

2 Jul 2009 | 5:05 pm

We’ve all seen fans get a little too crazy over a signing - some of us have even been guilty of the slightly overzealous behavior. But you get the feeling mediocre things don’t happen to the fans of Ankaragucu often, much less good things, as they’ve set the new standard for going overboard. Darius Vassell has [...]

AFC News
Refs gear up for Festival matches

19 Jun 2009 | 2:39 pm

A group of budding referees have started their preparations for next week’s matches at the AFC U14 Girls Festival of Football today.
Qatar hand Metsu new deal

19 Jun 2009 | 11:29 am

Qatar have extended the contract of their coach Bruno Metsu until 2014 with an aim to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil.
Okada under fire after Aussie loss

19 Jun 2009 | 10:11 am

Japan coach Takeshi Okada has come under fire for a lack of tactics after the Blue Samurai lost 2-1 to Australia in their last FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Pohang seek return to glory days

19 Jun 2009 | 10:10 am

Former kings of Asia, Pohang Steelers, are looking to reclaim their crown as they prepare for the knockout stages of the AFC Champions League next week.
Juninho signs up for Al Gharafa

19 Jun 2009 | 10:04 am

Former Brazilian playmaker Juninho has signed a two-year deal with Qatar champions Al Gharafa for a fee believed to be in the region of 2.5 million euros, a record in the Gulf state's championship.

Zambian Football
Katongo brothers: Tragedy derailed us

Zambianfootball.net

2 Jul 2009 | 12:43 am

ZAMBIA soccer team brothers, Felix and Christopher Katongo, have revealed that they were psychologically disturbed during the joint 2010 African Cup and World Cup qualifier against Algeria at Konkola stadium on June 20 as a result of the accident involving...(read more)
Mbesuma ‘having trials’ at Swallows

Zambianfootball.net

1 Jul 2009 | 9:20 am

ormer Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns striker Collins Mbesuma could find new home with Moroka Swallows. Mbesuma, who is still without a club after Sundowns failed to renew his contract, began training at Swallows this morning. Swallows’ assistant...(read more)
Kasonde set to sign for Sudanese giants

Zambianfootball.net

30 Jun 2009 | 12:33 am

Francis Kasonde with an Merriakh official at the airport in Sudan. Power Dynamos and International defender *** midfielder Francis ‘Mr Reliable’ has been spotted in Sudan where he is believed to be on the verge of signing for Al Merriekh contrary to media...(read more)
Clifford attending trials in Isreal

Zambianfootball.net

27 Jun 2009 | 9:30 am

CAF 2007 African Young Player of the Year Clifford ‘The Master’ Mulenga is in Isreal attending trials with a Premier League out fit Maccabi Petah Tikva. The highly rated left footed midfielder jetted into Isreal on Saturday morning and is...(read more)
Hachipuka, Zulu attending trials in Egypt

Zambianfootball.net

25 Jun 2009 | 12:59 am

Zambian Premier League side Choma Green Eagles duo of Kebby Hachipuka and Aubrey Zulu are believed to be in Egypt attending trials, Zambianfootball.net understands. According to reliable sources the duo left the country on Tuesday and are expected to...(read more)

Arseblog
Joan Laporta needs to shut his mouth + Adebayor, Wilshere and more...

3 Jul 2009 | 12:55 am

Happy Friday to you. Some bits and pieces to get through so let's get through them, these bits and pieces that must be got through. Where to start? Ok, Emmanuel Adebayor. Arsene Wenger has spoken to French TV about the future of the Togonian and says: If he does not want to stay, he will leave but I think that he will be still at Arsenal this season. Interesting the way the boss makes it Adebayor's decision. From everything I've been told Wenger wants to move Adebayor on. The fact that he's more or less confirmed that the Bordeaux striker Chamakh is a target tells you everything you need to…
The Gallas dilemma - Gazidis talks + tittle tattle

2 Jul 2009 | 12:14 am

Morning all, how typical the first morning I have to be up and about early I sleep it in. I blame the huge thunderstorm we had last night. That was loud. I also blame the thunderstorm for me, several hours previously, setting the alarm on my phone for entirely the wrong time. A quick run through what's happening then. A lot of talk about William Gallas. He spoke about his future yesterday, saying: I am at Arsenal, my contract is still valid for a year, so I am an Arsenal player. We have not talked about renewing the contract, but I am relaxed and looking forward to next season with Arsenal.
Melo no go + the third kit is quite simply horrible

1 Jul 2009 | 12:31 am

Hurrah, we're into July which means football grows ever closer. I have to say I'm getting a bit twitchy, not quite as twitchy as old Harry, but twitchy nonetheless. July might also bring about more transfer activity as many players contracts run until June 30th and if you remember last summer we had the issue with Nasri not being able to sign due to financial jiggery-pokery (that's the technical term), so things might get a bit interesting in the next few weeks. One man who looks unlikely to join us now is Felipe Melo. There was a lot of talk about him but yesterday it was announced that he…
More absolute tripe from The Sun

30 Jun 2009 | 1:04 am

Here we go again. The News feeds are full of 'Arshavin to Barcelona' stories based on a the smallest article in this morning's Sun, which comes with a handy quote to provide authenticity. I have nothing to say about this. Of course Los Muppetos in the Spanish papers will see this then start running stories about 'Accoring to the English press Arshavin wants to play for Barcelona' and it will spin and spiral and ... well, you know how these things go. It's already the main story on the El Mundo website. *sigh* Turkish defender Serdar Tasci (with a funny bit on the c) says he's flattered…
Gilberto tells Melo to join Arsenal + rights, Theo and $$$$

28 Jun 2009 | 11:56 pm

Good morning and welcome to a new week in the summerlull. Just one week to go until pre-season starts for most of the lads. Then we're just counting down days till we get some football again. We'll start this morning with Felipe Melo. He's been heavily linked with us since the transfer window opened and former Arsenal man Gilberto Silva, who has been away on Pointless Cup duty with him, has given him positive reports about the club. He says: We heard rumours and he asked me. I said it's a fantastic club and if he's interested he should go without thinking. Splendid. Good man, Gilberto. I know…

OleOle - Football News and Opinion
Official: Loria joins Torino and Montella retires

3 Jul 2009 | 10:15 am

Here it is this day must have made the mercato for Roma, the loaning out of Loria to Torino was a must an unfit player, way below Roma's calibre, maybe Serie B would serve him good, this is a relief now. Another old player to haveleft Roma is Christian Panucci his contract has officially ended with Roma and is now seeking a place at either Genoa or Parma. Roma didn't end their quest for a younger team there, Montella was convinced to retire from football and accept a job of coaching the Roma youth squad, hopefully he'll do future stars just like him, loyal and successful. Diamoutene is the…
What has gone wrong for the Freedom?

3 Jul 2009 | 9:25 am

First, I will do a little fancy recap of the Chicago game, before heading off to making some points that many of you have dutifully already brought up in comments, as well as ideas from previous blogs. Then, I shall travel to the pregame report for the visit of the Los Angeles Sol on Sunday. But before that, I would like to wish everyone an early Happy 4th of July! So, as you all know, we lost in Chicago 2-1. That makes the Redstars the first team to ever win from a deficit. We still have not been able to beat Chicago. Now don't get me wrong, they are a talented squad, but based on form and…
Potters in comfort zone?

3 Jul 2009 | 8:27 am

I must admit I'm surprised at the lack of transfer activity6y at Stoke City, the Britannia has resembled the Fenton branch of Woolies in the summer months. Could it be that Pulis and the Potters feel they are safe in the land of milk and honey. The second syndrome is a present danger for all those in North Staffs. Ipswich Town finished fifth in there first season back in the top flight only to suffer relegation twelve months later. Stoke have been linked with Michael Owen and Dean Ashton, both have proven goalscoring records but less then ideal fitness ones, more Holby…
Gazidis, Wilshere and More

3 Jul 2009 | 7:06 am

Arsenal Chief executive Ivan Gazidids has had his say on the concept of salary cap's in english football he told the guardian: "I think it is worth our while to investigate whether there are elements of the salary cap system, which they have in US NFL and baseball (sic), which would benefit football," "Clubs have a duty to provide more stability in our business models and some form of wage restraint is one element worth looking at. "There are many ways in which it could work." Also young english starlet Jack Wilshere has signed the usual 'long-term' contract with the club which is good…
Joanne Laporta is an utter cunt

3 Jul 2009 | 7:02 am

Good afternoon people. First of all apologies for the lateness of my blog today as im severely bogged down in work today. Now where do i start! Anyone who read my last post would no that i wanted to put all the Cesc to Arselona rumors to bed and get on with the rest of the pre-season. I thought we had with El Capitano,s comments last week about his commitment. Apparently nobody read this announcement in The Catalan City. This story is really getting a little boring at this stage and is mirroring the relentless persuit of Henry and Viera by the paella scoffing MOFOS. Big up to the Arseblogger…

Skysports.com Football News
Kinnear backs Owen switch

3 Jul 2009 | 1:12 pm

Joe Kinnear has backed Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson to get the best out of Michael Owen.
MK Dons confirm Ince return

3 Jul 2009 | 12:22 pm

Milton Keynes Dons have confirmed the return of Paul Ince as the club's new manager.
Owen seals shock Utd move

3 Jul 2009 | 11:51 am

Manchester United have confirmed the shock capture of Michael Owen, with the striker signing a two-year contract at Old Trafford.
Yakubu - A frustrating time

3 Jul 2009 | 11:43 am

Yakubu Aiygebeni has spoken of his relief as he nears the end of a 'frustrating' injury spell.
Perez targeting 'two more'

3 Jul 2009 | 10:49 am

Florentino Perez feels that 'two more signings' will complete his overhaul at the Santiago Bernabeu.

FourFourTwo
Why Danny Wilson feels Sir Alex Ferguson's pain

The Robins

3 Jul 2009 | 8:15 am

Swindon fan Nick Judd notices some startling comparisons... What has Danny Wilson got in common with Sir Alex Ferguson? More than you might think. If, as is currently being reported, the Swindon boss sells Simon Cox – our top goalscorer with 32 goals last season – to West Brom, he will have to fill a similar key-man void to that which Manchester United have since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.And although Wilson would snap your hands off for a tenth of the £80million Ronaldo fee, he has, like Sir Alex, an unusually large amount of money to spend.But money doesn't always buy…
Why Real Madrid haven't got Kaka’s number

Paul Simpson

3 Jul 2009 | 6:00 am

With a feint as elegant as any he showed in the 2007 UEFA Champions League final, Kaka has given Real Madrid’s attempts to make him the new Zidane the swerve. In an interview with Champions – out on July 8 – the Brazilian made it clear that: “I wouldn’t like to wear Zidane’s No.5. That would be a huge responsibility after all he has done for the club over the years.” His own preference was probably No.18 – the number he wore playing for the Rest Of The World against Real Madrid on February 18 2002 in a match to celebrate the club’s centenary, and his age when he fought back…
United fans won't panic despite loss of prize pair

Andy Mitten

2 Jul 2009 | 4:55 am

Manchester United have lost two of their best players in Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez. But there has been no hysterical reactions from fans. More new signings like Antonio Valencia would be welcomed, but there isn’t panic on the streets of Denton, Didsbury or Moss Side. Sir Alex Ferguson has built up such a vast bank of credit that fans would look foolish if they started questioning the playing side of the club. Ferguson had continually proved doubters wrong and the obdurate Glaswegian would gain great satisfaction from doing it again. United are linked with big names every…
Star-studded la Liga leaves Serie A sulking

Riccardo Rossi

2 Jul 2009 | 12:30 am

Do you ever get the feeling that the good times have gone and that they aren't coming back anytime soon? Well, watching Ricky Kaka’s unveiling at the Santiago Bernabeu reinforced the thought that while La Liga is the new Hollywood, Italian football has become decidedly B-list. They say that no man is bigger than a club, or a league for that matter. But watching the Brazilian shine brightly in front of the adoring thousands in Madrid, this side of the Med the feeling is that of a spurned lover. Amid all the hysteria in Spain – they even courted the Brazilian with Giacomo Puccini’s…
All quiet on the Atlético front... for now

Tim Stannard and Simon Talbot

2 Jul 2009 | 12:00 am

La Liga Loca’s Atlético Madrid-loving acquaintances – the blog has no friends, friends make you weak – have been doing their very best to avoid the ongoing Galactico parties at the Bernabeu. But the lack of activity at their own club has made this a tough task. Like the thousands of sleep-starved Madrileños, Rojiblanco supporters have been scowling and growling at the Florentino fiesta with pillows clamped to ears. With the duelling duo of Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Angel Gil all with the Speedos on their holidays and unlikely to be sending each other postcards, the main news in…

Tribal Football
Free transfer Owen signs for Man Utd

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 11:12 am

Manchester United have confirmed that Michael Owen has signed a two year contract at Old Trafford. read more
Owen agrees terms for Man Utd move

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 10:21 am

Michael Owen has agreed terms to join Manchester United, reports The Sun. read more
Blackburn poised to sign Italian striker Vieri

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 10:20 am

The Gazzetta dello Sport is claiming that former Italy striker Christian Vieri is set to sign for Blackburn Rovers. read more
Wenger: Make or break season for his Arsenal team

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 10:19 am

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is bracing himself for a season that, dependent on its outcome, could mean a rethink of strategy at the end of the campaign. read more
Neill in U-turn over new West Ham deal

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 10:19 am

Skysports.com is reporting that Lucas Neill is in talks with West Ham about returning to the club he left last month following the expiration of his contract at Upton Park. read more

World Soccer News
Milan in no hurry to but a striker

3 Jul 2009 | 9:12 am
Bayern still keen on Bosingwa

3 Jul 2009 | 7:23 am

Bayern Munich are still hoping sign Chelsea full-back Jose Bosingwa this summer.
Makelele extends PSG stay

3 Jul 2009 | 7:19 am

Paris Saint Germain skipper Claude Makelele has extended his contract with the French first division side until 2010.
South Africa to address with transport concerns

3 Jul 2009 | 4:55 am

South Africa has pledged to fix transport problems ahead of next year's World Cup.
Bayern insist Ribery is staying

3 Jul 2009 | 4:29 am

Bayern Munich have reiterated that they have no intention of selling Franck Ribery, despite the French international admitting that he wanted to join Real Madrid.

SPANISH FOOTBALL & SPORTS
SFS FLASHBACKS: SPAIN 1 - GERMANY 0: FERNANDO TORRES EURO 2008

STRIKER

2 Jul 2009 | 11:01 pm

It was over a year ago that SPAIN made the jump into the WorldFootball elite defeating GERMANY 1-0 in the Final of the EuropeanChampionships. The only goal came thanks to FERNANDO TORRESwho managed to beat defender Lahm to "clip" the ball over the goalie & guide the ball into the net. Spain, European Nations CupChampions 2008, a great SFS Flashback moment to remember.
ATLETICO DE MADRID THINK IN AC MILAN MIDFIEDER PIRLO?

STRIKER

2 Jul 2009 | 10:55 pm

Spanish daily “Marca” publish that ATLETICO DE MADRID has thoughtabout the possibility of acquiring the services of AC MILAN starmidfielder PIRLO. The Italian Club has declared Pirlo transferable &has placed a price of about 18M€, plus the Italian International hasexpressed a desire to continue his Football in Spain.Atletico de Madrid will have to sell players before they can makethis wish a
REAL MADRID PRESENTS OFFICIALLY RAÚL ALBIOL

STRIKER

2 Jul 2009 | 1:31 pm

REAL MADRID presented tonight its new Central Defender boughtfrom VALENCIA CF, 23 year old Spanish International RAÚL ALBIOL.The turn out was quiet impressive, 8.000 fans to see a relative youngpromising & National Football player that understandably hasn´t theprofile of Kaká who drew a 50.000 crowd.(photo: elmundo.com)The layout was exactly the same as for Kaká as Real Madrid doesn´t wish to
REAL MADRID: FRANCK RIBERY - "...I WISH TO LEAVE...REAL MADRID OR NOTHING"

STRIKER

2 Jul 2009 | 4:45 am

According to alleged comments picked up in the French sports daily“L´Equipe”, BAYERN MUNICH French forward FRANCK RIBERYhas done what Valencia CF player David Villa did not do & wasexpected. In the first day of training for the new seasonfor Bayern Franck Ribery told his new Coach Luis Van Gaal(translated) “… I have made up my mind, I wish to leave”, whenVan Gaal asked what his desires were for
DAVID VILLA: THE STORY & SITUATION WITH THE TRANSFER SAGA: PART IV

STRIKER

2 Jul 2009 | 1:21 am

The DAVID VILLA transfer saga continues with FC BARCELONA now taking the limelight after REAL MADRID has shown its alternativepreference with the signing of KARIM BENZEMA. SFS will now givebelow a full summary, in point form, on the situation with two sections:pre- Benzema & post - Benzema. Hopefully the SFS readers will findthis useful as a form of staying up to date with this complex &

Soccer Training Info
The Beckham Experiment

Beckham returns in a few weeks and a new book about his MLS journey is set to come out.
The United States as Upstarts

Some tears of joy maybe. The best Brazilian player. Subs. Lifting the trophy.
Confederations Cup Gives US Hope

Maybe South Africa 2010 could include some good times for the United States national soccer team, after all.

Real Football
New Zealand Almost Embarass Italy in Confed Cup Warmup

Dean

10 Jun 2009 | 8:30 pm

Italy came from behind to beat New Zealand 4-3 in their Confederations Cup warm-up clash in South Africa. Shane Smeltz gave New Zealand a shock lead on 13 minutes when he headed home past Marco Amelia. World Cup holders Italy drew level on 33 minutes when Alberto Gilardino headed Quagliarella’s cross into the net. Celtic striker Chris Killen restored New Zealand’s lead three minutes before the break with a header in off the underside of the crossbar. Gilardino netted his second of the contest three minutes after the restart to draw Italy level. However, New Zealand went in front…
Socceroos v Bahrain Goals and Highlights

Dean

10 Jun 2009 | 3:19 pm

See the goals and full highlights of Australia v Bahrain World Cup Qualifier in Sydney. Fulltime AUSTRALIA 2 (Mile Sterjovski 55m, David Carney 89m) bt BAHRAIN 0 at ANZ Stadium. Referee: Abdullah Al Hilali.
Socceroos do it easy against Bahrain

Dean

10 Jun 2009 | 5:22 am

Australia got their act together in the second half with two goals to beat Bahrain in Sydney earlier tonight. They remain on track to stay top of group A and will do so with at least a draw against Japan next Wednesday at the MCG. Their performance was far from spectacular, but second half goals to winger Mile Sterjovski and defender David Carney ensured the Socceroos carried on their impressive form in the final stage of qualification. —————————————————- Goals & highlights from the game…
Socceroos Going to South Africa!

Dean

6 Jun 2009 | 11:26 am

PIM Verbeek has guided the Socceroos to their second consecutive World Cup Finals despite their game against Qatar ending in a 0-0 draw. They join Japan who earlier defeated Uzbekistan 1-0 in Tashkent who became the first team to qualify for South Africa, 2010. Qatar fielded a young team and proved to be a more formidable opponent than during their previous three meetings but the Socceroos could have made it 1-0 when Tim Cahill hit the post with a spectacular bicycle kick just before the half hour mark. Both sides made a tentative start in front of a small but vocal crowd, with the Socceroos…
Lucas Neill Move is Back on the Agenda

Dean

1 Jun 2009 | 4:56 pm

Galatasaray, Olympiakos and Manchester City are believed to be the front-runners interested in Socceroos captain Lucas Neill, who has rejected a one-year deal at West Ham United. Neill, who became the Hammers’ highest-paid player when he joined them from Blackburn in 2007 for $141,000 a week, has turned down the offer of a new agreement worth $4 million a year. Neill, 31, who is in Dubai with the Australia squad preparing for Saturday’s World Cup qualifier against Qatar remains tight-lipped on where he will be come next season but was said to be unhappy with only being…

FC Football Blog
Man City Attempt to Sign Eto’o

Although Barcelona have offered Samuel Eto’o a new contract, Mark Hughes is still confident of landing the Cameroon striker. Hughes commented: “We have to sit back and see what develops. Patience is a word that has been mentioned – we may need some.” Eto’o has been at the Nou Camp for 5 years and it was widely assumed [...]
Italy 0 – 3 Brazil Highlights

Italy 0 – 3 Brazil Highlights Add this video to your website, blog etc – copy and paste codeMore football highlights at fcfootballblog.com Brazil demolished Italy last evening to finish group B with maximum points and place their bid for the Confederations Cup trophy. The Italians crashed out of the competition, ending only on the 3rd spot [...]
Egypt 0 – 3 United States Highlights

Egypt 0 – 3 United States Highlights 0-1 Davies The United States managed a great performance last night. The 3-0 win over Egypt as well as Italy’s 0-3 defeat over Brazil allowed the North Americans to reach the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup 2009. Watch the highlights now! Warning: include(includes/ads.php) [function.include]: failed to open stream: No such [...]
Spain 2 – 0 South Africa Highlights

Spain 2 – 0 South Africa Highlights Add this video to your website, blog etc – copy and paste codeMore football highlights at fcfootballblog.com Spain won Group A yesterday after yet another success. This time they scored twice against South Africa to complete their Group A appearances. Spain won the group with 9 points and confirmed yet [...]
Iraq 0 – 0 New Zealand Highlights

Iraq 0 – 0 New Zealand Highlights Add this video to your website, blog etc – copy and paste codeMore football highlights at fcfootballblog.com Iraq and New Zealand played for a goalless draw on Sunday in their last match of the Confederations Cup 2009. Iraq finished 3rd in Group A, counting 2 points out of 3 matches, [...]

FOXSports.com News for FOX SOCCER
Owen joins Man United on two-year deal

3 Jul 2009 | 12:01 pm

Newcastle striker Michael Owen joined English champion Manchester United on a two-year contract Friday.
New and returning faces in the Champions League

3 Jul 2009 | 11:52 am

The upcoming Champions League season will be filled with many new faces, but some old friends return, too.
Wenger ready for 'decisive season'

3 Jul 2009 | 9:06 am

Arsene Wenger is ready to rethink his whole strategy at Arsenal if they once again fail to launch a Premier League title challenge this season.
Gibbs given new Gunners contract

3 Jul 2009 | 9:05 am

Arsenal have announced that promising teenage full-back Kieran Gibbs has signed a new long-term contract extension to keep him at the club.
Dalglish back at Anfield in academy, business roles

3 Jul 2009 | 9:01 am

Former Liverpool striker and manager Kenny Dalglish is returning to the club to nurture new players at its academy and help attract investment from around the world.

Studs Up
Separated At Birth

chris

2 Jul 2009 | 11:00 pm
Why do girls fall differently to guys?

chris

2 Jul 2009 | 6:04 am

- I watched this video the entire way through and applauded the perfectly selected ironic soundtrack. Then I went to the actual YouTube page for the vid, read the info, and realised that it wasn’t done ironically at all. Then I felt sad. And then your mum joined in. - I thought I knew what was happening at Real. Buy Kaka, buy Ronaldo, re-establish the Galacticos and the world interest in the team. But then they went and added Benzema to the mix and turned the whole paella upside down. Dropping hundreds of millis in one transfer window hasn’t been done since early Abramovich-era…
And Then Your Mum Joins In

chris

30 Jun 2009 | 11:00 pm
One meeelion page views and a BIG thank you!

chris

30 Jun 2009 | 2:28 am

Despite its brief existence, Studs Up just cruised past its one millionth page view and I just wanted to say a ginormous thanks to all of you out there who contributed even just one of those - I certainly hope you got a laugh or two out of it. There are a lot of really exciting things in the works for SU in 2009 and that’s all down to the support you guys have shown, so I promise to keep working by butthole off to make it worth your while. Thanks for reading. Really. Chris
Not Yo Cheese

chris

28 Jun 2009 | 4:00 pm

The Second Half
Eto'o would light up City - Hughes

SoccerAdmin

2 Jul 2009 | 9:16 am

Mark Hughes believes top sides are judged by the quality of their strike force and that is exactly why he wants Samuel Eto'o at Manchester City. While speculation continues about the possible arrival of Carlos Tevez, who is now a free agent after the expiry of his two-year 'lease' arrangement with Manchester United, Eto'o remains at the top of Hughes' summer wish-list. City have not given up on their hopes of signing the 28-year-old from Barcelona, even though this week's indication has been that Eto'o would remain at the Nou Camp. Hughes insists the Cameroon star is not merely a marquee…
Benzema: latest Real Madrid capture

SoccerAdmin

1 Jul 2009 | 12:28 pm

Big-spending Real Madrid have reached an agreement with Lyon to sign Manchester United target Karim Benzema, according to the striker's agent. Widespread reports in Spain and France have suggested Real are closing in on the signature of the France international. Benzema's future has been the subject of intense speculation for the last few weeks, with United also credited with an interest in the striker and Miralem Pjanic claiming they will win the race for the 21-year-old. However, Benzema's agent claims Real have won the race for the forward's signature after agreeing a fee of 35million…
Kaka keen to dethrone rivals Barca

SoccerAdmin

1 Jul 2009 | 8:32 am

Brazilian superstar Kaka is confident Real Madrid are building a squad capable of knocking arch rivals Barcelona off their throne next season. Kaka was unveiled as Madrid's first recruit of what could be a busy summer on Tuesday night following the return of Florentino Perez to the club presidency at the start of June. Perez promised a "spectacular project" to get fallen giants Madrid back to top of the football tree both in Spain and Europe, and he has wasted no time trying to fulfill that pledge. Aside from the signing of Kaka for a reported price tag of around £56million, Madrid have also…
Xavi: No room for 'uncontrollable' Ronaldo

SoccerAdmin

29 Jun 2009 | 9:34 am

Xavi insists he would not have wanted Cristiano Ronaldo to join Barcelona because the Catalans do not need players who 'fill gossip magazines'. The Portuguese winger is set to officially join Real Madrid on Wednesday in a world-record deal after Manchester United accepted an £80million offer from the Bernabeu giants. Xavi, though, is adamant that Champions League, Primera Liga and Copa del Rey holders Barcelona do not need Ronaldo, who has been pictured over the summer enjoying a holiday in the USA. The Spain midfielder points to club colleagues Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Thierry Henry…
U.S.A. 2 - Spain 0

SoccerAdmin

25 Jun 2009 | 2:38 pm

In one of the greatest matches in U.S. Soccer history, the U.S. got goals by Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey to stun No. 1-ranked Spain 2-0 and advance to the finals of the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa. The U.S. Men's National Team will face the winner of the other semifinal match between Brazil and South Africa in their first ever final in a FIFA tournament on Sunday, June 28 in Johannesburg. Altidore ignited the upset with a fantastic show of strength and skill to score from the top of the 18-yard box in the 27th minute, while Dempsey surprised the Spaniards to provide the…

PSV News
Gallery: De Valk-PSV

2 Jul 2009 | 2:45 am

The PSV first-team squad started their pre-season campaign ten days ago and their third pre-season friendly was scheduled on Wednesday night. Danny Koevermans scored the only goal of the game against De Valk amateurs to hand Fred Rutten’s side a 0-1 victory at the Valkennest in Valkenswaard.
PSV claim narrow victory in third pre-season friendly

2 Jul 2009 | 2:00 am

PSV, who had thrashed opponents 0-10 in their first two games of the pre-season campaign, also won their third-pre season friendly, in five days’ time. Danny Koevermans scored the only goal of the game against De Valk amateurs to hand Fred Rutten’s side a narrow victory at the Valkennest in Valkenswaard.
Haibin Zhou scored first Chinese goal for PSV

1 Jul 2009 | 6:00 am

Xiang Sun was not only the first Chinese player to wear a PSV shirt, he was also the first Chinese to make an appearance for PSV in the UEFA Champions League. Sun is currently plying his trade with Austria Wien, but another Chinese international, Haibin Zhou, joined PSV at the beginning of 2009.
PSV ran riot against Mierlo-Hout; 0-10

1 Jul 2009 | 12:30 am

PSV ran riot in their second pre-season friendly, against Mierlo-Hout on Tuesday night. After having beaten RKSV Driel 0-10 on Saturday, Fred Rutten’s side reached double figures again at Sport Park De Beemd as they romped to another 0-10 victory. PSV scored as many as nine goals in the first half.
Género Zeefuik joins FC Dordrecht on loan

30 Jun 2009 | 9:00 am

Género Zeefuik will spend the 2009/10 season on loan with Dutch First Division side FC Dordrecht. The 19-year old forward reported back for pre-season training with Young PSV on Monday, after having been sent out on loan to FC Omniworld last season. Zeefuik’s current contract with PSV is due to expire in July 2011.

Football Boots
UMBRO STARS IN SHOCK TRANSFER NEWS

Fenboy

2 Jul 2009 | 10:58 pm

Michael Owen is reported to be close to joining Manchester United while Chelsea have rejected a bid from Manchester City for John Terry.
CONCAVE GEARS UP FOR NEW RELEASES

Fenboy

2 Jul 2009 | 10:32 pm

Concave announce plans for the autumn release of their new range including the PT+, PT1 and PT Midi.
LIONEL MESSI F50i

Fenboy

2 Jul 2009 | 8:46 pm

Anyone noticed that the football season has finished? No, thought not. The amazing rush of new football boots just keeps going with adidas bringing out the Lionel messi inspired F50i Limted Edition.
REAL MADRID CLOSE IN ON BENZEMA

Fenboy

2 Jul 2009 | 1:01 am

Madrid splash the cash again as French striker is lured to Spain.
NIKE: TAKING IT BACK TO BLACK

Fenboy

1 Jul 2009 | 11:25 pm

Hot on the heels of the release of the new Superfly and Vapor V, Nike confirms that the new season will have a 'black boot' theme at its core.

Dirty Tackle
More links!

Brooks

3 Jul 2009 | 11:44 am

All the stuff being covered outside the unfriendly confines of Dirty Tackle… The last time Michael Owen leaves a Manchester area hospital without being on crutches. [Eurosport] West Ham fans sabotaged Joe Cole’s wedding suit. [The Spoiler] Jose Mourinho is not getting a divorce. [Kickette] Kaka is officially Real Madrid supporter #540,000. [Goal] Queen of the South defender catches swine flu in Ibiza. [Unprofessional Foul] Stop worrying about transfer fees. [The Offside] Adriano skipped training for the third time in two months, says he had diarrhea. [Goal] Chelsea not giving up…
I want it

Brooks

3 Jul 2009 | 9:34 am

Here’s a teaser from EA Sports for FIFA 10. They say this is “actual gameplay footage”. If it is, then I can’t wait to commit ungodly acts of violence against Cristiano Ronaldo with such realistic graphics.
Artur Boruc’s Friday Rage List

Brooks

3 Jul 2009 | 5:30 am

AAAAHHHHHHHH I AM ARTUR BORUC AND THIS IS A LIST OF THINGS THAT MADE ME ANGRY THIS WEEK: 1. JULY 4 — WHY DO ONLY AMERICANS GET TO SET OFF FIREWORKS ON THIS DAY?!?!?!? I WANT TO BLOW THINGS UP TO!!!!! AHHHH IT’S THE ONE THING I ENJOY MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE AND EVERY TIME I GO TO CELTIC PARK TO BLOW SOME CRAP UP THEY SHOOT ME FULL OF HORSE TRANQUILIZERS AND TAKE AWAY MY LAND MINES!!!!!! I HATE WHEN THEY TAKE MY LAND MINES!!!!!! 2. CORN — IF YOU EAT IT WILL GET IN YOUR BODY AND CONTROL YOU FROM THE INSIDE!!!!!! OF COURSE THAT WILL STILL HAPPEN EVEN IF YOU DON’T EAT IT…
DTotD: Grabby

Brooks

2 Jul 2009 | 10:55 pm

I have no idea what’s going on here, but I’m pretty sure the guy in blue was trying to recreate a move he learned in prison.
You will get nothing and like it!

Brooks

2 Jul 2009 | 11:29 am

Well Franck Ribery has told L’Equipe that he wants to leave Munich and join the orgy of cash and superstar talent in Madrid, even going so far as to reject a new deal from Bayern to show he means business. But what Ribery doesn’t seem to realize is that he isn’t dealing with any old set of club executives. He’s dealing with the dickbags that run Bayern Munich. In a show of stubbornness, the club’s executive chairman, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge (pictured above, denying an orphan a much needed meal), told newspaper tz: “We are very cool on that sort of story,…

Tribalfootball.com
Free transfer Owen signs for Man Utd

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 11:12 am

Manchester United have confirmed that Michael Owen has signed a two year contract at Old Trafford. read more
Owen agrees terms for Man Utd move

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 10:21 am

Michael Owen has agreed terms to join Manchester United, reports The Sun. read more
Blackburn poised to sign Italian striker Vieri

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 10:20 am

The Gazzetta dello Sport is claiming that former Italy striker Christian Vieri is set to sign for Blackburn Rovers. read more
Wenger: Make or break season for his Arsenal team

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 10:19 am

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is bracing himself for a season that, dependent on its outcome, could mean a rethink of strategy at the end of the campaign. read more
Neill in U-turn over new West Ham deal

Ian Ferris

3 Jul 2009 | 10:19 am

Skysports.com is reporting that Lucas Neill is in talks with West Ham about returning to the club he left last month following the expiration of his contract at Upton Park. read more

EPL Talk
Kenny Dalglish Returns To Liverpool FC

Ethan Armstrong

3 Jul 2009 | 10:17 am

King Kenny is back! After a 18 year hiatus, the man many hail as Liverpool’s greatest ever player, Kenny Dalglish, will rejoin Liverpool Football Club. From the club’s official site: “Dalglish will assume a senior role at the Liverpool Academy and will also act as a Club ambassador working with the commercial side of the business around the world.” Jamie Carragher had already sparked Liverpool supporters’ hopes for this possibility when he suggested the idea of Dalglish’s return in his 2008 autobiography: “After the takeover was complete, I’d…
Michael Owen to Man United – Gamble or not?

Tom Mallows

3 Jul 2009 | 5:28 am

£56 million here… £80 million there… this summer has been dominated by the outlandish spending of a select few, with transfer records tumbling at every turn. But one deal that will grab most of the headlines could well be a free transfer. Michael Owen, labelled a fallen idol, a faded star, even a has-been by the media, looks set to complete a dramatic move to Manchester United. Just a week ago Owen’s options looked far more limited, he had admitted in an interview with Sky Sports that staying at Newcastle wasn’t an option, but the only two clubs publicly declaring an interest were…
Real Madrid Storms Transfer Market - Can English Clubs Cope?

Ethan Armstrong

2 Jul 2009 | 7:24 am

Barcelona winning everything last season could have deeper repercussions for the Premier League beyond felling Manchester United in the Champions League. They’ve awoken the sleeping spending giant that is Real Madrid. Desperate to overtake the unstoppable Barça, Real Madrid have obliterated all transfer records and don’t look anywhere near stopping. The super nova has exploded and now every big English transfer prospect looks at risk of sliding into an Iberian black hole before United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, City can grab their targets by the shoestrings and heave them…
Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 Trailer In HD

The Gaffer

2 Jul 2009 | 4:36 am
Karim Benzema Transfer A Blow To Manchester United’s Summer Plans

Rory Tevlin

1 Jul 2009 | 2:24 pm

Just when you thought Real Madrid had sated their appetite for extravagant attacking ability in the transfer market, with the signings of Ronaldo and Kaka, they swoop for one of French football’s most prized assets in a deal reported to be worth up to 41 million euro. The signing of Karim Benzema from Lyon takes Real Madrid’s summer spending past the 200 million euro mark and into the realm of pure fantasy, if it had not reached that point already! Returning President Florentino Perez has left no doubt as to his intentions with the signing of three massive attacking talents,…

Back of the Net
Re: ENY Girls Regional Schedule

3 Jul 2009 | 11:31 am

Posted by Larry Miller: [quote=Anonymous]Where can we find scores? Will you be posting them? [/quote] The scores link is
Re: GU14 Fall 2008/ Spring 2009

3 Jul 2009 | 11:25 am

Posted by Anonymous: [quote=Anonymous]Group A: This group will come down to how Massapequa does vs PDA, but I see PDA com
Re: GU13 D5-8 Spring 2009

3 Jul 2009 | 11:15 am

Posted by Anonymous: [quote=Anonymous]congratulations to plainedge magic for tying the last place team...magical... now w
Re: GU13 Premier Spring 2009

3 Jul 2009 | 11:15 am

Posted by Anonymous: [quote=Anonymous][size:17pt][b]Good Luck East Islip Red Dragons- Keep the cup on Long Island!![/b][/
Re: BU13 Fall 2009

3 Jul 2009 | 10:44 am

Posted by Anonymous: [quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I agree with this guy. The center back on FC is incredible. He h

Major League Soccer Rumors
REPORT: MLSR At USMNT Training and Charlie Davies Interview

Lenny

3 Jul 2009 | 9:09 am

USA CONCACAF Gold Cup Match with GrenadaYesterday, I had the privilege of watching the US National team work out at the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila Washington just south of Seattle for their upcoming 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup match with Grenada on Saturday July 4th. CONCACAF allowed the U.S. to expand its roster from 23 to 30 after considering the short turn around after the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa. Watching the passing and dribbling in close quarters I gained a greater appreciation for the skill of the players. Then their play spread out to include long passes. Before the…
REPORT: Soccer City USA? Portlanders Chose MLS Timbers Over Baseball Beavers in Poll

Rumor Mill

3 Jul 2009 | 8:06 am

According to the Portland Business Journal....In last week’s Business Pulse Survey we asked “If you had to choose, would you rather keep the Timbers or the Beavers?” and 41 percent said Timbers, 27 percent said Beavers and 18 percent said they want to keep both.
REPORT: Seattle Sounders FC Fan Arrested at US Open Cup Cascadian Clash

Rumor Mill

3 Jul 2009 | 7:45 am

Apparently one of Seattle's North End Supporters got arrested.As many of you are aware, there was an incident involving an NES member at last night's Sounders-Timbers match. (and that NES member would be me, of course).It is probably best that I maintain a low profile for a while, and I have been in contact with a few fellow supporters about the incident. I don't really care to engage in any public discussion right now.My most immediate concern is any damage I may have done to the reputations of NES and our sister organizations on last night's trip, Gorilla FC and Immortal Fury. I have…
AMERICANS ABROAD: Eddie Johnson to Crystal Palace?

UncleSamSoccer

3 Jul 2009 | 6:03 am

Various sources say Fulham may put Johnson on loan again....Fulham have put striker Eddie Johnson up for a loan move to Crystal Palace.The U.S. international has struggled to gain regular first team football at Craven Cottage and was sent out on loan to Cardiff City last season.Despite having two years to run on his contract, Johnson has again been put up for loan with Fulham targeting the Eagles who are considering the offer."We've had a phone call about him from his agent - but we don't know if we are going to follow it up,” said Eagles boss Neil Warnock."It's an option."
AMERICANS ABROAD: Heath Pearce should know his club fate after Gold Cup.

UncleSamSoccer

3 Jul 2009 | 5:58 am

Unfortunately for Pearce, there is now competition at the left back spot since Bornstein was added to the squad....but clubs are still said to be looking on. Free agent left back Heath Pearce will have clubs from five European countries watching when he starts CONCACAF Gold Cup play with the U.S. National Team on Saturday, Soccer365 has learned.While a traditional Eredivisie sub-topper with longstanding contact has shuffled its feet on an expected offer, rival suitors have popped up across both central Europe and Scandinavia."He has interest from Denmark, Sweden, the second Bundesliga and…

astroheader
I WANT SOMETHING

OrangeShorts

18 Jun 2009 | 7:10 pm

The following is a short list of items that are NOT something: -Clint Dempsey’s moves -Sacha Kljestan, DaMarcus Beasley, Brian Ching on the field -Adu, Torres on the bench -flubbing shots from the six -hitting the crossbar -playing long ball to Jozy Altidore more than once per game -marking respectable opponents from 20 feet away -beating CONCACAF teams -Bob Bradley’s coaching decisions in general -Landon donovan’s penalty kicks -red cards -sucking -losing
CHICAGO 3-2 CHIVAS USA

OrangeShorts

29 May 2009 | 4:36 am

In general, when I hear someone complain about referees, I dismiss it. The ref is too easy a scapegoat upon whose cereal coaches, players, and fans figuratively shit. But last night’s best-versus-best match-up, in my opinion, was legitimately marred by a flurry of poor judgment. Yellow cards tend to lose their “I mean business” effect when you give out 265 of them in a match… and 3 penalty kicks—all of which were questionable—made it tough to discern who deserved to win from who actually did. AAAAAAANYWAY, Chicago won on a penalty in the 95th, and I continue to…
WHAT THE?…THE PREM, SEASON FINAL

Toeball Tyler

25 May 2009 | 5:24 pm

WHAT THE? is my weekly Premiership review column where I write about the crap I found interesting in the latest round of Prem games. This is about me, not you, so I don’t want to hear you bloody whine about it. Since the top of the Prem was decided last week, this week was a fight to stay up. Hull City, which got off to a fantastic start to the season, lost to Manchester United 0-1 but manages to stay in the top flight by one point. Middlesbrough lost to West Ham 1-2 which was the final nail in the coffin as they will play in the Championship next season. Newcastle had a rather sad game…
WHAT THE?…THE PREM, ROUND 37

Toeball Tyler

20 May 2009 | 7:30 am

WHAT THE? is my weekly Premiership review column where I write about the crap I found interesting in the latest round of Prem games. This is about me, not you, so I don’t want to hear you bloody whine about it. Manchester United secured the Premier League title with a 0-0 draw with Arsenal. Fulham held on to the critical seventh position with a 1-0 win against Newcastle. Tottenham is only two points behind Fulham going into the last week. West Brom lost 0-2 against Liverpool to be the first confirmed relegated team. Going into the last round, Middlesbrough, Newcastle and Hull are all…
REC RULES (#3)

OrangeShorts

16 May 2009 | 7:39 am

The search for lost glory. The registration fees. The tragic team names. The championship t-shirts. The inflated egos. The weekend war. This is rec league soccer. Rec league soccer rightfully attracts players with all levels of experience. It’s a perfect format for new players to get in and learn the game from seasoned vets. But sometimes, especially in the United States, players sign up without a hint of knowledge or respect for the sport. For many, it’s ingrained in youth: soccer is an easy sport for sissies. By fate, some of those kids grow up and find themselves on a rec…

Off The Post
Top 10 English football exports to Turkey

Rob Parker

3 Jul 2009 | 3:36 am

As Darius Vassell mulls over a move to Turkey, we look at those who have blazed the trail for him. 1. Colin Kazim Richards CKR - the Coca Cola Kid - not only made himself at home in Turkey, he bagged a Champions League goal for Fenerbahce against Chelsea and broke into the Turkish national team. He [...]
Video: Michael Owen appears on Dragons’ Den

Rob Parker

3 Jul 2009 | 2:16 am

I’m out. Everyone’s out Spotted on 101GG
Video: Exquisite backheel flick own goal

Rob Parker

3 Jul 2009 | 1:19 am

Scandinavian defender imitates Zlat Lars Ovrebo (not sure if he is related to the death threat ref) of Norwegian outfit Mosse scored this beautiful own goal in a recent match against HamKam. It is reminiscent of goals scored at the right end of the pitch by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. We are not sure whether this guy bottles it [...]
Newcastle find out David Edgar had moved to Burnley via Sky Sports News ticker

Rob Parker

3 Jul 2009 | 12:47 am

Canadian defender couldn’t think of anyone to tell he was leaving Newcastle found out defender David Edgar has left after eight years at the club via the television. The 22-year-old said he felt forced to leave the club and didn’t even know who to contact to say he was departing for newly-promoted Burnley. He said: “One of [...]
Sponsored post

Rob Parker

2 Jul 2009 | 11:54 pm

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Dynamo Planet
Open Cup win redux and some love for Jonathan Yardley

Martek

Find more videos like this on MyDynamo.net Thanks to the Dynamo for posting this video sequence from the win over the Austin Aztex earlier this week. I was stuck here in Houston for the game, but listened to Jonathan Yardley call it on KBME. I have to say, that Yardley is excellent on the radio. If you've not had a chance to listen to the guy call a game, he's everything you want. Smooth, keeps the focus on the game, constantly updates the minute and score (in the old Red Barber with an egg timer style) and works the booth alone, so no constantly propping up a color guy. We could be seeing a…
To the Death! MLS predictions

Martek

With the recent spate of celebrity, ah, moving-ons, what better theme than that for this week's MLS predictions, now that I'm back from vacation and ready to be back in the flow. With the quicky picks from the Hill Country last week, I'm at 40-57, a .412 mark, increasing my lead over blind chance to a season-best eight games. So I'm starting to feel my oats here, leading to a wild bout of celebrations, much like this guy here: Well, hopefully, not like that. On to the picks: EARTHQUAKES at REAL SALT LAKE. RSL 2-0. Alright, aliright, RSl has started to play better, I'll admit it. And even…
US OPEN CUP: DYNAMO BEAT AUSTIN / PORTLAND PROVES MLS-READY / QUARTERFINALS SET

Vance Anthem

Timbers fans before the Portland/Seattle match: Sounders fans in Portland Before we get into the historic northwest match yesterday, let's talk Texas. The Houston Dynamo beat the Austin Aztex 2-0 off of goals by Corey Ashe and Dominic Oduro. It's the first time ever the Houston Dynamo have won at a US Open Cup road game. Their next game is against the team that eliminated them the last two years..Charleston Battery. -------------------------------------- SEATTLE VS PORTLAND The Sounders defeated the Portland Timbers 2-1 in front of the largest non-final, non-double header crowd in US Open Cup…
POST-CONFEDERATIONS CUP, NUMBERS SHOW BOOM IN SOCCER INTEREST IN AMERICA

Vance Anthem

(Expect 2010 to be the beginning of the American soccer renaissance) After Brazil's come-from-behind 3-2 victory over the USMNT this past Sunday, the question most asked around the nation was "what does this mean for US soccer interest, and what does this mean for the USMNT?" I decided to hold off on writing anything until after some numbers came in so we could see what those told us. Well, here are two numbers that will bring some perspective: =ONE= (From USA Today) South African organizers of the 2010 World Cup hope the United States' upset victory over Spain in the Confederations Cup will…
Rennes interested in Rico

chjoak

After a good showing in the Conf Cup, Rico is getting some love from the Euro leagues. Link The USMNT fan in me wants to see him go. The Dynamo fan in me wants to see him stay.

Football Italiano
European Under-21 tournament round-up - An Azzurrini diary

1 Jul 2009 | 5:00 pm

Between June 15 and June 29, the UEFA European Under-21 Championships took place in Sweden. Historically it has been a competition that has acted as a springboard for the superstars of tomorrow. Pierluigi Casiraghi took an experienced group of players to the finals with hopes of bringing the trophy back to the peninsula for an unprecedented sixth time. The Azzurrini were placed in a group conta
Lessons in Calcio - Fabio Cannavaro

30 Jun 2009 | 5:00 pm

Continuing Football Italiano's build-up to the World Cup next summer, Lessons in Calcio goes Azzurro for 2009/10. Throughout the season we will endeavor to bring you lessons on some of the greatest players to have played in Serie A and for the Italian national team. Kicking things off, we have current captain and legend, Fabio Cannavaro. An English myth states
Azzurri World Cup coverage preview

30 Jun 2009 | 5:00 pm

The Confederations Cup is over and after some amazing football played out to the vuvuzela soundtrack, South Africa 2010 cannot come fast enough. Except that is, for Marcello Lippi and his Italy squad after a desperate showing that saw them drop out of the tournament with some dismal displays. Football Italiano was there following the entire event and we hope you enjoyed our coverage of
Confederations Cup round-up part one - Group stages

29 Jun 2009 | 5:00 pm

Italy qualified for the Confederations Cup as World Cup holders. Thrown into the ‘harder’ group, Italy were amongst favourites Brazil, a burgeoning Egypt and a physically strong United States outfit. Meanwhile Euro 2008 winners Spain, found themselves in a group comprised of a team who have not qualified for next year’s World Cup – Asian champions Iraq, South Africa, who only qualified as the
Confederations Cup round-up part two - Knockout stages

29 Jun 2009 | 5:00 pm

With the Azzurri now out of the tournament embarrassingly after defeats against Egypt and Brazil in the group stages, all the signs pointed towards a Brazil-Spain final. But as the old saying goes ‘football is funny old game.’ Semi-finals Nobody predicted that the Americans could possibly pull off another upset to oust the favourites but an impressive showin

FootballBlips
July 2, 2009: MNT Training Talk (video)

3 Jul 2009 | 7:27 am

July 2, 2009: ussoccer.com talks to U.S. MNT players Sam Cronin, Logan Pause and Stuart Holden in Seattle, Wash.Yanks Abroad Soccer Highlights found this 4 hours ago on www.youtube.com Find more top football news, videos, and blogs on FootballBlips: Other, Logan Pause, Stuart Holden
Chelsea reject £30m for Terry from City

3 Jul 2009 | 1:29 am

• City willing to double Terry's current salary • Chelsea statement: 'John Terry is not for sale' Manchester City are considering whether to return to Chelsea with an improved bid for John Terry after failing with an offer described as being between £25m and £30m for the England captain last night. The official offer was faxed to Stamford Bridge after several months of planning in which City have been strongly led to believe that, despite all his claims to the contrary, Terry is ...101 Great Goals - latest football videos and ... found this 10 hours ago on www.guardian.co.uk Find…
Manchester United poised to make �16million bid for Brazilian striker Luis Fabiano

3 Jul 2009 | 12:37 am

Manchester United are poised to make a £16million swoop for Brazilian striker Luis Fabiano after missing out on Karim Benzema. Benzema’s £32m move to Real Madrid meant United chief Sir Alex Ferguson had to rethink his targets to replace outgoing Carlos Tevez. And Sevilla hitman Fabiano, top ...TheGame - Times Online - WBLG found this 11 hours ago on www.mirror.co.uk Find more top football news, videos, and blogs on FootballBlips: Premiership, Luis Fabiano, Manchester United, Peter Crouch, Karim Benzema, Alex Ferguson
Arsenal to consider Usmanov rights issue

3 Jul 2009 | 12:33 am

• Rights issue could reduce club's £440m debts • Jack Wilshere commits future to north London club The Arsenal board of directors are to spend more time scrutinising a proposed rights issue put forward and underwritten by the Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov, the second biggest investor in the club, before they decide whether or not to support the scheme. The issue was addressed at a board meeting yesterday with the directors listening to Usmanov's argument for adopting the scheme — ...Gunnerblog found this 11 hours ago on www.guardian.co.uk Find more top football news, videos,…
Lille slap £12m price tag on Tottenham and Aston Villa target Bastos

3 Jul 2009 | 12:30 am

Tottenham Hotspur will have to pay around Soccerlens.com found this 11 hours ago on www.dailymail.co.uk Find more top football news, videos, and blogs on FootballBlips: Premiership, Michel Fernandes Bastos, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa

Soccer Updated
Video: Darius Vassell Is Ankaragucu's Super Hero!

3 Jul 2009 | 1:23 am

Former England striker, Darius Vassell, arrived in Turkey to discuss a transfer with Turkish club Ankaragucu. Around 3,000 fans of Turkish side Ankaragucu turned out to welcome Vassell. The boisterous contingent went into delirious joy when Vassell finally appeared. The former City striker was mobbed by the hysterical fans who surrounded him and draped him in scarfs and flags.“We’ve terminated
Video: Brazilian Michel Bastos Villa Bound?

2 Jul 2009 | 7:11 pm

Michel Bastos scores from a corner in the video.Michel Bastos scored 14 goals and made 11 assists for Lille in French Ligue 1 in 2008/09 season.-ESPN Lille is willing to sell their midfield maestro for £12 million.Martin O'Neill wants to sign him in order to reinforce Villa's squad for next season.-VillaMADBastos, 25, is keen to move to the Premier League as he aims to secure a World Cup place
Video: Man Utd Players Learning Bahasa Indonesia

2 Jul 2009 | 3:54 am

Selamat Pagi! (Good Morning)Do you play Bola?Yes you must speak the language. If you don't learn it, you will deny your$elf the rich cultural experience of fully communicating with tho$e from another culture. This is a new United advertisement produced ahead of their Far East tour..How do you say " I love soccer " in Bahasa Indonesia?
The MUTV Official Cristiano Ronaldo Tribute Video

2 Jul 2009 | 2:44 am

Bracketed with the best Manchester United talents such as Eric Cantona and George Best. And, of course, there were the goals, 117 of them in 289 appearances for United. Nobody should doubt his ability or impact in his 6 years at the Old Trafford.“Cristiano has been a marvellous player for Manchester United. His six years at Old Trafford have seen him develop into the best footballer in the world.
Video: Antonio Valencia Signs For Man Utd

1 Jul 2009 | 7:18 am

Manchester United first signing is Wigan Athletic's winger Antonio Valencia. He has penned a four-year deal for a fee reported to be close to £16 million. The 23-year-old Ecuador international has been tracked by United manager Sir Alex Ferguson for a while. Ferguson was evidently delighted with the transfer. He said, "Antonio is a player we have admired for some time now, having spent the last

Soccerama - Bloggin' La Vida Soccer
Team USA: lessons worth learning for 2010

Soccerama

Lesson #1: Statistics on airplane accidents show that most accidents occur during take off or landing. Once in the air most flights are almost on auto pilot. But those first couple of minutes and those last couple of minutes that is when things are truly dangerous. And so it goes in soccer. The first couple of minutes and the last couple of minutes in each half is usually when things get interesting. In youth soccer, it is amazing to see how the winning teams always capitalize on those first and last couple of minutes. To have watched today's Confederations Cup final between the USA and…
USA 2- Spain 0 -The Stats

Soccerama

SPAIN STATS USA 0 Goals 2 0 Goalie stops 8 49 In the zone 14 17 Corner Kicks 3 7 Outs 4 50 Interceptions 44 13 Fouls 9 2 Yellow Cards 2 0 Red Cards 1 56% Ball Posession 44%
Soccer talent - Does size have anything to do with it?

Soccerama

The US has an obsession with size and speed. Soccer tryout after soccer tryout you see hundreds of players of varying skills, speed and size. Two or three always stand out and make the cut. But the other seventeen or eighteen that make it......how are they generally picked. Size and speed. Time and again size and speed trump everything else. The assumption is that skills can always be added later. But is that assumption true? Stars and their heights: Shorties: Edison Arantes do Nascimento - "Pele" - 5'8" (1.73m) Diego Maradona - 5'5" (1.65m) Lionel Messi - 5'7" (1.69m) Xavi Hernandez - 5'7"…
The Perfect Soccer Shoe or Boot

Soccerama

Periodically, soccer players write to me asking what shoes they should buy. Some of them, enter into more detail connected with the kind of field and weather so, instead of continuing to write to them individually, a couple of years ago, I thought it was time to give some general suggestions to a much bigger audience. Clearly, they are my personal opinions, based on my 50 years of soccer experience, 30 of them as a soccer player of a decent level. Even if some times I give the wrong impression that I’m the ‘keeper of truth‘, these suggestions are only my opinions. If you’d like to…
Youth soccer players.....thinking about life after high school?

Soccerama

Starting to think about life after high school? Hard to believe it is almost that time. What are the options? In the US, sports play an important role in college; in fact there are over 600 colleges that offer sports scholarships at the intercollegiate level. And even without the added incentive of a scholarship, an elite soccer player who is only academically middle of the road can at least stand out from the crowd and get accepted into a more prestigious college than the same candidate without the sports skills. However the less strong the academic record is the more work that candidates…

Decipher Soccer
Off Season News : July 3rd 2009

Ian John

3 Jul 2009 | 1:39 am

The Confederations Cup came to a close in the past week with the stunning performance of the United States falling just short of recording a historic victory in the competition. Brazil took the trophy coming from 2-0 down to defeat the U.S 3-2, but the American side can take huge pride in their performances in the competition. Brazil will be delighted with the silverware and South Africa will be pleased that a dress rehearsal for next summer's main event seemed to progress well. My only minor complaint being the annoying use of the horns people were blowing at many of the games. It sounded as…
It’s going to be an interesting 2009-2010 season for…

Ian John

28 Jun 2009 | 2:05 am

Michael Owen... The former Liverpool star faces a make or break season for him. Dogged with injury for the last four seasons he has shown only fleeting glimpses of the striker who looked certain to break the England all time scoring record just a few years ago. With his future still uncertain, though talk of a move to Hull City on the cards, the forgotten man of the England squad needs one of the best seasons of his career in order to prove his doubters wrong, lift Hull (if that is where he eventually signs) away from the foot of the Premiership and to perhaps even force his way back into the…
Off Season News : June 24th 2009

Ian John

24 Jun 2009 | 4:44 am

Considering we are in the "quiet time" for football, certainly across most of Europe, it has actually been a relatively busy last couple of weeks.
What would you put in Football’s Room 101?

Ian John

19 Jun 2009 | 2:20 am

Football is the beautiful game. No sport has a bigger global fan base or a bigger global appeal. Peyton Manning or Lebron James may be unable to walk the streets of America without failing to be recognised, but to the majority in the rest of the world, they would cut an anonymous figure. Compare that with the fame of the likes of Diego Maradona, Pele and in modern times players like David Beckham, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo and the true global nature of football becomes apparent.
The Silly Season

Ian John

18 Jun 2009 | 1:42 am

I've held off writing this article this week in the vain hope of something more than just football transfer rumours being something to comment upon. Lamentably, because we are now in the silly season in football terms, nothing vaguely interesting has happened to report on in any great detail.

GoSounders
“a league below, a class above”

yamsmos

2 Jul 2009 | 7:01 pm

that was a sign hanging in the left field area down in portland last night. ironically, i first noticed it when i saw the bottle being thrown at nyassi. one of the things that i would change about myself is that i let myself get worked up over things that really don’t matter. but be that as it may, i am worked up right now. i have just spent the last few hours reading sounders and timbers boards and the thing i really don’t get about the timbers fan is how they truly think they are blameless and amazing. and, to quote their sign, “a class above” well let’s jut…
Sounders Sign Costa Rican Defender

Mike

2 Jul 2009 | 2:12 pm

Leonardo González played for Costa Rica in the 2006 World Cup We mentioned it last week, it’s official now- Seattle Sounders FC have Signed Costa Rican National Team Defender Leonardo Gonzalez. The 28-year old González has 59 caps for the Costa Rican National Team and represented them in the 2006 World Cup. He last played for Municipal Liberia int eh CR Primera Division. There is no doubt that Leo could secure a wing back position for the Sounders and help firm up the defense. He will join the squad after the Gold Cup. Press Release: Sounders FC Signs Costa Rica International Gonzalez…
US Open Cup Tickets on Sale Now!

Mike

2 Jul 2009 | 7:26 am

Tickets for next Tuesday’s US Open Cup Quarterfinal match against the Kansas City Wizards went on sale at 10a today on Ticketmaster. The game will be held at Starfire Sports in Tukwila on July 7th. Kickoff is set for 7p. If the Sounders win, they will host the Semifinal match on July 21 at Starfire against the winner of the Charleston Battery-Houston Dynamo winner.
we love you sounders, we do, we beat the timbers, 1-2

yamsmos

2 Jul 2009 | 6:06 am

well, as promised, some thoughts about tonight. just got back to my house and i would be lying if i said i wasn’t tired. but i am such the professional, how can i keep my promise. the thing is, you probably have a better opinion of me on the match and the play by play b/c sitting pretty much at field level, in the middle of flags and smoke bombs down at the corner, well i had little chance to analyze much of the game. but as for the trip it self, well i wax on about that. the trip with traffic, multiple stops, a bus driver who didn’t know exactly where to go…. well, we got…
Portland Timbers 1: :2 Seattle Sounders FC

Mike

1 Jul 2009 | 9:28 pm

James Riley and the Sounder beat Portland 2-1 (photo by AP) Seattle got a goal from Roger Levesque in the first minute and then from Steven King in the 26th as the Sounders defeated the Portland Timbers 2-1 in the Third Round of the US Open Cup. The goal was Levesque’s 10th goal against Portland, this time it was in front of a crowd of 16,321 at PGE Park. Next week, Seattle will host Kansas City in the Quarterfinals. The Wizards defeated the Minnesota Thunder yesterday in the Quarterfinals. Scoring Summary: SEA: Levesque (Nyassi, King) 1’ SEA: King (Jaqua) 27’ POR: Keita (Hayes)…

Seattle Soccer Examiner
Sounders off but it's still a Seattle soccer weekend

3 Jul 2009 | 6:39 am

Seattle Sounders FC won't hit the pitch again until next Tuesday's US Open Cup quarterfinal match against the Kansas City Wizards, but the SOUND of soccer can still be heard at Qwest Field and Starfire this weekend.Tonight the Seattle Wolves face the...
Sounders v. Timbers: Supporters Videos

2 Jul 2009 | 6:39 pm

What was it like on the streets and in the stands as Seattle Sounders FC tackled the Portland Timbers Wednesday night at PGE Park? Check out these videos taken by supporters on both sides.
Sounders add Costa Rican defender Leonardo Gonzalez

2 Jul 2009 | 2:27 pm

As has been rumored as close to happening, Sounders FC have today announced the signing of Costa Rican defender Leonardo Gonzalez.It's a solid signing for Seattle, who were in need of help at left defensive back after a continuing injury to Zach Scot...
Gold Cup: USA National Team plays at Qwest Field on July 4th

2 Jul 2009 | 2:03 pm

There has not been much talk in Seattle soccer circles about the arrival of the US National Team and the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup first round at Qwest Field this Saturday, July 4th. Apparently there hasn't been a boon at the box office, either. One rep...
PDL playoff race reaches final stretch with four clubs fighting for three spots

2 Jul 2009 | 9:58 am

Puma v. Timber.In the short 16-match Premier Development League (PDL) soccer season the end seems to come just as the action and playoff races are heating up. Most of the playoff-contending clubs in the Northwest Division are in the final quarter of ...

World Soccer Daily
Michael’s entry

ck

2 Jul 2009 | 9:40 am

Arriba!
Thursday’s Show, July 2nd

Rafa

2 Jul 2009 | 8:43 am

Real Madrid continues to make the power moves and it makes you wonder whether they have a spy inside the Manchester United camp as they seem to be nipping each player that Sir Alex has his eye set on. Ribbery says he wants to leave Bayern although club officials say he isn’t going anywhere. Needless to say, Steven and Kenny keep things interesting here at WSD. In the second hour, we may be joined by Bura, our Turkish football correspondent who will hopefully be stopping by the studio.
Wednesday’s Show, July 1st

Rafa

1 Jul 2009 | 9:08 am

Transfer rumors are coming thick and fast, and truly this silly season is going by quickly. In case you were unaware, the Champions League actually began yesterday with some opening round qualifying matches. Of course the big name teams have a couple months still to prep for their entry into the biggest European club tournament there is, but with the European season just around the corner, it is incredibly difficult to take an eye off what’s going on. Remember, Steven and Kenny will be taking Friday and Monday off so make sure to get your calls and emails in. Today’s guest…
Killian

ck

1 Jul 2009 | 8:50 am

Killian sharpens up his asymmetric warfare skills to get that Messi shirt.
New Pics of wee Hassan

ck

1 Jul 2009 | 8:37 am

We just got the newest pics of Kenny’s baby, and it looks just like him! Judging from that strong spine, (s)he’s either destined to be a footballer, or a pizza cook. Are we sure that's a spine? Looks like a boy to me. More pics of the newest Hassan after the jump. (S)he can finish with the left, but prefers the right boot. Strongarm Hassan

Football FanCast
It will be a bold tactical move by Harry, but ultimately the right one!

GUEST BLOGGER

3 Jul 2009 | 10:20 am

Football FanCast guest columnist Joe Buxton feels that Harry should give Modric the central role alongside Palacios next season. read more
Will Ivan Gazidis' proposals ever reach fruition?

Dan Machin

3 Jul 2009 | 6:18 am

Football FanCast columnist Dan Machin wonders if Ivan Gazidis' proposed wage cap will be of great benefit to football. read more
Villa's role of scruffy underdog to City's expensive shiatsu could suit us nicely!

Ian Woodcock

3 Jul 2009 | 6:06 am

Football FanCast columnist Ian Woodcock is hoping that Villa will go out and silence their critics next season. read more
The kind of deal where Sir Alex has everything to gain and nothing to lose

GUEST BLOGGER

3 Jul 2009 | 6:02 am

Football FanCast guest columnist Sid Jepson feels that United simply have everything to gain from this proposed Owen deal and nothing to lose. read more
Who is this £10m Swede that is the object of Spurs & Everton's affections?

Transfer Tavern

3 Jul 2009 | 5:58 am

read more

Kickette
The Friday Fit: Raul Albiol

kickette

3 Jul 2009 | 8:22 am

New Real Madrid signing Raul Albiol heads off to complete his medical. July 2, 2009. Raul’s cute. He’s talented. His jeans fit him properly, and his stubble is successful. We wholeheartedly approve. You?
Lazy Links & Randoms

kickette

3 Jul 2009 | 8:08 am

Michael Owen to Manchester United? That is some serious pocket-sized man news.— (We liked his appearance on Dragons Den.)— Xabi Alonso is getting married next weekend. He and long-time gal (and foxy baby mama) Nagore, will tie the knot in Guipuzcoa. — Manchester City says John Terry is interested. He just doesn’t know how to say it. WTF?— Raul looking nothing short of edible on the beach. With his wife. Damn it.— The Beckham’s response to all the chit chat about the Grant Wahl book? Release some new robot/bony…
Front Row Fashion: Yoann Gourcuff

kickette

3 Jul 2009 | 5:36 am

Yoann Gourcuff hangs out with Louis Vuitton designer Marc Jacobs at the menswear shows in Paris. Gourcuff sat front row. Why he was not participating as a model is beyond us. June 25, 2009.
Vacay: Luca Toni and Marta Cecchetto in Sardinia

kickette

3 Jul 2009 | 5:32 am

See more pics at Sportmedia.
Melanie Slade: Skirting the Issue

kickette

2 Jul 2009 | 8:32 am

Melanie Slade, girlfriend to Arsenal’s Theo Walcott, steps out for a night at Sketch, London. June 30, 2009. Caution, her outfit may cause drowsiness.

Boxofficefootball
Daniel Sturridge Joins Chelsea

Sturridge signed on a four-year deal after his contract expired at Manchester City. The fee for the promising 19-year-old striker, nephew of former Derby forward Dean, has not been disclosed but was settled by a tribunal. The England U20 forward will now join up with the rest of the first-team squad when ...
Owen Signs for Manchester United

Owen is back !He signed a 2 year deal today which started over a breakfast invite from sir alex, could this be the best move ever for him or a bad move on Alex Fergusons part only time will tell.Owen signed today on a free transfer after passing a medical ...
City after Terry as Bayern want Bosingwa

City have not given up on trying to pull Terry away from chelsea to join high spending Manchester city.Chelsea have rejected a second offer from Premier League rivals Manchester City for their captain John Terry. The size of the offer made by City was not revealed in a statement from the ...
Darius Vassell Welcome to Ankaragucu

So the mighty kaka attracted 50,000 to the Bernabeu but Darius Vassell is already a legend without kicking a ball!.Over 3000 crazy fans urged him to sign for Turkish outfit Ankaragucu today.Obviously no-one appeared to have told then that Vassell only hit one goal last season shhh! When Vassell finally appeared the crowd erupted ...
Manchester United to Sign Michael Owen

Shocking one this could be but Manchester United are now odds on to bring owen to old trafford.Punters in the United Kingdom, though, have begun backing the former England striker for an unlikely move to Old Trafford. Leading bookmakers have therefore reduced the odds on an incredible switch .Odds at one ...

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