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South Koreans abroad: Manchester United's Park Ji-Sung scores & shines in FA Cup The Red Devils midfielder was one of the better players on the field at Anfield, scoring a superb first-time goal, while Koo Ja-Cheol was in action at Bayern Munich
Jan 29, 2012 11:45:00 PM
By Ben Somerford
Park Ji-Sung put in a heroic performance and scored a fine goal but it wasn't enough forManchester United to progress in the FA Cup after a 2-1 fourth-round loss to Liverpool.
After Daniel Agger gave Liverpool the lead, the former South Korea international netted the equaliser on 39 minutes with an excellent first-time drilled finish after a well-timed near-post run.
However, Dirk Kuyt would get a late winner to dump Park's Red Devils out of another competition.
Park put in a good performance throughout showing plenty of industry, tackling well and tracking back when required. He also offered some attacking threats when opportunities arose too.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said after the game: "The equaliser was a great finish from Ji-Sung Park. I thought that put us in the driving seat."
England Ji Dong-Won (Sunderland): Was an unused sub in 1-1 draw with Middlesbrough. Lee Chung-Yong (Bolton): Out injured as Bolton knocked Swansea out of the FA Cup 2-1. Park Chu-Young (Arsenal): Was an unused sub in 3-2 win over Aston Villa.
STAR OF THE WEEKEND
Park Ji-Sung
Industrious throughout and scored a cracking goal with a sublime first-time finish at the near post
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Germany Koo Ja-Cheol (Wolfsburg): Was a 41st-minute substitute away to Bayern Munich in a 2-0 loss. Son Heung-Min (Hamburg): Came on as a 90th-minute substitute in the 2-1 win at Hertha Berlin.
France Jung Jo-Gook (Nancy): Was an 81st-minute substitute in the 3-1 win at Auxerre.
Netherlands Suk Hyun-Jun (FC Gronigen): Was a 67th-minute substitute in the 4-1 loss at FC Twente.
Scotland Cha Du-Ri (Celtic): Started and played 68 minutes in the 3-1 League Cup win at Falkirk. Ki Sung-Yueng (Celtic): Came off the bench at half-time in the win at Falkirk.
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Cho Yong-Hyung (Al Rayyan): Played a full game in the 1-0 home loss to Al Khor. Lee Jung-Soo (Al Sadd): Played a full game in the 3-2 win at Al Ahli. Nam Tae-Hee (Lekhwiya): Played a full game in the 3-2 win at El Jaish.
AC Milan's Massimiliano Allegri: There is no hope of signing Carlos Tevez Club CEO Adriano Galliani left the door ever so slightly ajar with comments made after Sunday's win over Cagliari but the Rossoneri boss insists that the deal is dead
Official: Sunderland sign Wayne Bridge from Manchester City on loan for rest of the season The former England international left-back has joined the Black Cats until the end of the current campaign after falling out of favour under Blues boss Roberto Mancini
Agent confirms Lucas Barrios will remain at Borussia Dortmund, but player's name appears on Bundesliga transfer list The player's representative has asserted that his client will not leave the Westfalenstadion before summer, but the Paraguay international nonetheless is still eligible to move
Everton agree fee with Rangers for Nikica Jelavic The Toffees are believed to have met to the Scottish outfit's £7 million valuation and the Merseysiders are also expected to double the wages of the Croatia international
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini rues 'unlucky' January after domestic cup exits The Italian laments a number of injuries and absences which has seen his side crash out of both the League Cup and FA Cup, but is confident of winning all their remaining games
Manchester United will not have buy-back option in deal to sell Ravel Morrison to West Ham The controversial midfielder is in London to discuss personal terms over £20,000-a-week deal and undergo a medical as agents' demands hold up move
Carlos Tevez appeals to Premier League over six-week Manchester City fine for continued absence The Argentine forward has decided to appeal to the heads of the English top-flight, after being deducted several weeks pay by the Eastlands outfit while remaining in exile
Russia international Pavel Pogrebnyak undergoes Fulham medical in Munich as Londoners have Hugo Rodallega bid rejected Deal to sign Stuttgart striker for £3 million is complicated by work permit difficulties and his history of knee problems, while Andy Johnson and Chris Baird are offered to Wigan
Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish blasts Manchester City over Andy Carroll for Carlos Tevez swap claims The Scot criticised the Eastlands outfit for discussing business which had not been completed, and insisted the 23-year-old will not be leaving Anfield
Manchester City close in on deal for Roma's David Pizarro as midfielder prepares to travel to England for talks on Tuesday afternoon The Premier League leaders are believed to be in talks with the Serie A side over a move for the midfielder, who has made only a handful of appearances for the capital club
Official: AC Milan sign Chelsea's Philipp Prosenik The Austrian youngster has decided to say farewell to Stamford Bridge, and will continue his career with the Rossoneri after three seasons at the Premier League club
Chelsea complete signing of Kevin De Bruyne & loan him back to Genk until June The Blues have signed the midfielder on a five-and-a-half-year contract and have loaned him straight back to the Belgian club for the remainder of the season
In Thomas Eisfeld, Arsenal have signed a player not in Borussia Dortmund’s top five prospects, but the newcomer has potential The Gunners' new addition has had his development harmed by injury, but in the right environment, might one day develop into a star player
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas hails Fernando Torres' improving form ahead of Swansea clash The World Cup-winning striker has not hit the back of the net in the Premier League since scoring and being sent off against the Swans in their previous meeting in September
Bolton defender Zat Knight calls for focus ahead of crucial Arsenal encounter The Englishman is confident that his side can build on their win against Liverpool and get through a tough run of fixtures which may decide their Premier League status
Milan Mandaric claims payments to Harry Redknapp were a friendship gesture The 73-year-old insists the payments had nothing to do with football, salaries or bonuses, but were instead a gesture of friendship
Fulham in talks to sign Stuttgart's Pavel Pogrebnyak - report The Cottagers close to adding to their attacking options with Russian striker, as Martin Jol looks set to keep Andy Johnson and Bobby Zamora at Craven Cottage
PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor condemns booing of Manchester United’s Patrice Evra in FA Cup clash against Liverpool The 68-year-old has slammed the treatment directed towards the full-back at Anfield on Saturday, and admitted that racism is still a problem in the English game
Chelsea's Juan Mata defends Daniel Sturridge following penalty award at QPR
The Spaniard highlighted the importance his goal which places Andre Villas-Boas' side into the fifth round following a 'difficult' game at Loftus Road
Thomas Vermaelen admits Arsenal were confident of FA Cup revival against Aston Villa
Despite a two-goal disadvantage at half-time at the Emirates on Sunday, the defender maintains his team-mates were imposing enough to secure victory
Giovani dos Santos set for Tottenham stay after MLS & Russia snub
The Mexico international's representative has also hit out at Spurs' £6m valuation for the forward, claiming they shouldn't command a high fee if they don't play him regularly
Manchester United are in a stronger position to challenge for the title than Tottenham, says Joe Jordan
Spurs' first team coach says the current champions have the knowledge and quality players to challenge for the title but still believes his team can put up a fight
Newcastle's Yohan Cabaye hit with violent conduct charge by the FA
The Frenchman has until 6pm on Tuesday to respond to the charge, which relates to an incident in Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Brighton and Hove Albion
Arsenal's Robin van Persie escapes charge for use of elbow on Carlos Cuellar during FA Cup victory over Aston Villa
The Dutch forward appeared to strike the defender in the face during the game at the Emirates but the FA confirm that no action will be taken as the referee saw the incident
Chelsea captain John Terry out of Swansea match with knee injury
England skipper has been suffering from fluid in the knee sustained against Portsmouth when he collided with the goal post, but should be back for game against Manchester United
Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna 'absolutely delighted' after making return from broken ankle in FA Cup win
The right-back suffered a four-month setback following injury against Tottenham in October but returned to first-team football with a cameo appearance in the FA Cup on Sunday
QPR sign Mali international Samba Diakite on loan
Mark Hughes continues his revolution at Loftus Road by bringing in the African star on a short-term deal with a view to a permanent move should he prove a success
Official: Manchester City sign Roma midfielder David Pizarro on loan until end of season
Chilean signs for the Eastlands club initially on a temporary deal and will link up once again with Roberto Mancini, his manager for a year while he played at Inter
Official: Manchester United confirm the signing of Frederic Veseli from neighbours City
The 19-year-old Swiss defender signs for Red Devils after impressing for their rival's academy and reserve sides, and will immediately slot into the second-string at Old Trafford
Official: Fulham sign Pavel Pogrebnyak from Stuttgart for £3m
Cottagers complete signing of Russian international on a six-month deal from the Bundesliga side as boss Martin Jol bolsters his attacking options
Official: Arsenal complete signing of Borussia Dortmund youngster Thomas Eisfeld
Gunners delve into the transfer market to swoop for German teenager who has shown promise and versatility at youth level in both national and domestic set-ups
Official: Sunderland complete loan signing of Sotirios Kyrgiakos from Wolfsburg until the end of the season
Former Liverpool defender becomes the Black Cats second transfer of deadline day following the arrival of Wayne Bridge from Manchester City on a similar short-term deal
Official: Blackburn sign defender Bradley Orr from QPR
The 29-year-old right-back has found opportunities limited at Loftus Road, with Steve Kean reinforcing his defensive options as the club look to avoid relegation
Official: Stoke City winger Ben Marshall joins Leicester City on three-year deal
The 20-year-old midfielder was highly-rated by Potters staff but could not be convinced to extend his soon to expire contract so has been sold to the Championship side
Official: Everton complete £7m signing of Nikica Jelavic from Rangers
Croatian striker moves to the Premier League side and stands to more than double his income from the SPL after passing a medical and being presented in front of the club's fans
Official: West Ham complete £1m signing of Ravel Morrison from Manchester United
The youngster has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at Upton Park, with the 18-year-old admitting that he is hoping to help guide the Hammers back up to the Premier League
Cote d'Ivoire’s Cheikh Tiote tells Newcastle not to expect him back too soon
The midfielder told the Toon faithful that he hopes to be at the Nations Cup until the end and will not be making a quick return to England
Sir Alex Ferguson hits back at Alan Hansen over claims Manchester United have not played well for 18 months
The former Liverpool defender turned BBC pundit had offered his opinion that the Red Devils have not been impressive for some time, a view which their manager strongly rejects
Arsenal reject Fulham bid to sign Park Chu-Young on loan for rest of the season
The Gunners have turned down a bid from Martin Jol’s side to take the Korean forward to Craven Cottage until the end of the season
Official: QPR complete signing of Lazio's Djibril Cisse on two-and-a-half-year deal
The former Liverpool and Sunderland forward has become Mark Hughes' fourth signing since taking over following the arrivals of Taye Taiwo, Nedum Onuoha and Samba Diakite
Tottenham's Vedran Corluka joins Bayer Leverkusen on loan for rest of the season
The Croatia international moves to Germany on a temporary basis after struggling for first-team football this term, making just one start in the Premier League since the summer
Official: Arsenal midfielder Ryo Miyaichi joins Bolton on loan for rest of the season
The Gunners are also closing in on the signing of young German midfielder Thomas Eisfeld from Borussia Dortmund after the 19-year-old passed a medical
Petr Cech concedes Chelsea cannot win the Premier League after 1-1 draw with Swansea City
The Czech Republic international feels that the 12-point gap between the Blues and the joint-leaders is too much to overhaul after a game of two halves at the Liberty Stadium
'It's a wee bit insulting' - Kenny Dalglish criticises press for doubting assertion that Liverpool would not buy in January
The Anfield boss has hit out at the media after they doubted his sincerity when he released a statement saying that he was not looking to do any business in the transfer window
Newcastle United midfielder Yohan Cabaye slams 'real injustice' after three-match suspension is upheld by the FA
The Frenchman took to Twitter to air his frustration after he was reprimanded for violent conduct during the Toon's FA Cup fourth round clash with Brighton
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson identifies April derby against Manchester City as key after ‘significant’ Stoke win
The veteran boss admits that drawing level on points with the Premier League leaders is important but feels that the real test of his side's challenge will come later
Should England boss Fabio Capello take Chelsea’s John Terry to Euro 2012 with race charge still to be decided?
On Tuesday, it was announced the 31-year-old will not face trial until July 9, eight days after the final in Poland & Ukraine. How should this affect his Three Lions chances?
‘My hero was Tomas Rosicky’ – new Arsenal signing Thomas Eisfeld
The young German signed from Dortmund on deadline day and is looking forward to playing alongside his favourite player and other greats such as Thierry Henry
‘It is normal, he is taking his time’ - Chelsea's Andre Villas-Boas remains confident in Fernando Torres despite goal drought
The Portuguese tactician jumped to his striker's defence after 1000 minutes without a goal, although he does concede Didier Drogba will offer 'healthy competition' upon his return
Andrey Arshavin will reject approach from Anzhi and stay at Arsenal until the summer - agent
The 30-year-old forward is keen to prove his critics wrong, recover his form and fulfil his ambitions of winning trophies at the Emirates Stadium before departing
Carlos Tevez to play for Boca Juniors in Martin Palermo testimonial
The 27-year-old played his last match back in September for Manchester City, but on Saturday will appear alongside Palermo to honour a wonderful career in Argentine football
Roman Abramovich's Chelsea spending surpasses €1 billion despite club announcement of record turnover
Whilst the west London outfit took £222 million last year, they still lost £67.7m over the financial cycle, without the expenditure of new signings factored in to the total
Fulham signing Pavel Pogrebnyak denies rift with Stuttgart hierarchy
The Russian says that rumours surrounding his exit are fabricated, and thanks former club's fans for their appreciation of him during his time in Germany
Manchester City star Yaya Toure rues ‘painful’ defeats
The midfielder does not believe his Afcon departure has resulted in Roberto Mancini's side's recent falterings, and suggests David Silva is the best player at Eastlands
Sir Alex Ferguson hopeful over fitness of Manchester United duo Wayne Rooney & Nani ahead of Chelsea clash
The Scot revealed Ashley Young could also make his return from injury at Stamford Bridge, while Ben Amos is set to deputise once again in goal with David de Gea injured
Dirk Kuyt pleased to hit 50 Premier League goals for Liverpool after Wolves win
The Dutchman notched up his half-century just a few days after scoring the winner against Manchester United and he believes the Reds are starting to hit some form
Danijel Pranjic furious with Bayern Munich after Everton move collapses
The Croatia international had already agreed personal terms with the Premier League side, but the deal fell through due to the current Bundesliga leaders' fee demands
Chelsea's John Terry to stand trial for allegedly racially abusing Anton Ferdinand after Euro 2012 on July 9
The England captain did not attend the hearing, where his lawyer entered a not guilty plea on his behalf, but the case will not be decided until after Poland and Ukraine
Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere ruled out for the season – report
The 20-year-old has yet to play this campaign due a stress fracture, an injury which he appears to have aggravated with the midfielder set for a further spell on the sidelines
Losing control - Manchester City's miserable New Year continues as Premier League pendulum swings back in United's favour
The league leaders fell to an away defeat once again after ex-Red Devil Darron Gibson downed Mancini's men at Everton, with Sir Alex's side drawing level in the title race
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes clubs are adopting a more cautious transfer policy
The Frenchman was critical of the £1.34 billion losses sustained by European sides over the last year but believes more will start to follow the Gunners’ style of business
Manchester United youngster Oliver Norwood joins Coventry City on loan until the end of the season
The midfielder has already had short spells at Carlisle and Scunthorpe and is now set to spend the rest of the term with the Sky Blues, much to the delight of manager Andy Thorn
Official: Fulham sign Ryan Williams from Portsmouth for an undisclosed fee
The Australian winger moves up from the Championship to become the Cottagers' second signing of deadline day, following the addition of Pavel Pogrebnyak
Official: Bolton sign striker Marvin Sordell from Watford
The forward, who has scored 10 goals in the Championship this term, has penned a three-and-a-half year deal with Owen Coyle's side
Harry Redknapp reveals Tottenham 'didn't have the money' to seal permanent deal for Juventus' Milos Krasic
Spurs had hoped to land the Serbian winger on loan from the Serie A outfit, but the 27-year-old was against making a short term switch to White Hart Lane
Everton's Tim Cahill: Dennis Wise and Duncan Ferguson taught me to be mentally strong
The Socceroo finally ended a 13-month goal drought and stated that it was his mental toughness he learnt from his mentors that allowed him to get through this difficult period
Official: Norwich City sign Ryan Bennett from Peterborough United
The England under-21 international defender has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at Carrow Road but will be immediately sent back to London Road on a short-term loan
Official: Blackburn sign Marcus Olsson on a free transfer
The left-sided player links up with twin brother Martin at Ewood Park as Steve Kean also secures the signature of QPR right-back Bradley Orr in order to shore up his defence
Official: Chelsea sign striker Patrick Bamford from Nottingham Forest for fee which could rise to £1m
The Blues secure a deal to bring the 18-year-old to Stamford Bridge despite contract offer from Forest described as the most 'lucrative they had ever offered a player of his age'
Agent of Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp insists he wouldn't consider selling Jermain Defoe to Liverpool
The England striker had been linked with a potential move to Anfield and reports were fuelled on Tuesday night when he failed to even make the bench in the win over Wigan
Official: QPR complete £5m signing of Fulham's Bobby Zamora
The England international links up with former manager Mark Hughes at Loftus Road as the club secured their second deal of the day after the purchase of Djibril Cisse
'We've shown we can compete with the best' - Dirk Kuyt confident of Liverpool's Champions League qualification chances
Following an incisive win over Wolves, Dutch winger calls for focus from the Anfield outfit in the hope that teams above them continue to falter and the Reds can climb the table
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini: We thought the game with Everton would be easier
The Eastlands outfit suffered defeat at Goodison Park and relinquished their outright lead at the top of the Premier League thanks to a solitary Darron Gibson goal
‘Andy Carroll was fantastic’ - Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish delight at striker’s role in 3-0 win at Wolves
The England international scored the first goal of the game in the Reds’ victory at Molineux on Tuesday night, a year to the day since his £35 million move from Newcastle United
Sir Alex Ferguson confirms Paul Pogba 'wants to stay' & takes swipe at Ravel Morrison: He's better out of Manchester
The Scot was full of praise for the Frenchman and insists that the club are negotiating a contract with him, while the 70-year-old also spoke highly of goalkeeper Ben Amos
Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas confident of catching Tottenham despite Swansea draw: A seven-point gap is nothing
The Portuguese admits that his side left it "very, very late" and had to "adapt to a different style" against the Swans as the Blues fought back to nick a point in Wales
Official: Wolves sign Tottenham defender Sebastien Bassong on loan until end of season
Cameroonian international seals switch to struggling Midlands side from Spurs after finding first-team opportunities hard to-come-by at White Hart Lane
Official: Tottenham complete signing of Everton striker Louis Saha
Frenchman seals move from the Toffees to London for the rest of the season after David Moyes takes decision to let former Manchester United forward leave the club
Official: West Brom confirm signing of Keith Andrews from Blackburn
Republic of Ireland international midfielder was keen to get first-team football ahead of the 2012 European Championships and his new manager is delighted with the signing
Official: Steven Pienaar rejoins Everton on loan until end of season from Tottenham
The South Africa international returns to Merseyside a year on from his move to the capital after finding his first-team opportunities limited at White Hart Lane
Official: Tottenham confirm they have agreed a deal to sell Roman Pavlyuchenko to Lokomotiv Moscow
The Russian is expected to his homeland after failing to truly establish himself in the Premier League where he scored 20 goals in 78 league appearances since signing in 2008
Finding his feet? - Five things Liverpool have learned about Andy Carroll one year on from his £35m deadline day move
After a torrid year on Merseyside, the ex-Newcastle striker has begun to show signs that he may be able to resurrect his Anfield career, with a fine performance against Wolves
Feb 1, 2012 9:30:00 AM
By Jake Watson at Molineux
Andy Carroll celebrated his one-year anniversary at Liverpool on Tuesday, a year that has been far from plain sailing. The big striker signed from Newcastle for £35 million last January to become the most expensive British player in history - a title which has dogged him since.The 23-year-old has appeared out of sorts and lacking in fitness while being constantly overshadowed by the striker that signed the same day as him – Luis Suarez.
Since the Uruguayan was handed an eight-game ban for racially abusing Patrice Evra, though, Carroll has started to slowly but surely show real signs of progress. The frontman has seen more game time while Suarez has been forced to sit out and there has been an obvious improvement in his performances, with an impressive showing against Manchester United in the FA Cup win followed by a goalscoring outing against Wolves.
Liverpool fans have been patient with Carroll throughout what have been at times disastrous displays when they could have easily lost faith, like when Joe Cole went through similar struggles after arriving at Anfield.
PLAY TO HIS STRENGTHS WITH DIRECT STYLE
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Andy Carroll stands at over 6' 3" tall, making him a towering forward and although it is important not to dismiss his touch and hammer of a left-foot, his obvious strengths lie with his head. Liverpool boast talent in midfield with Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam and Steven Gerrard all possessing the ability to find a pin-point cross, yet Carroll has cut a forlorn figure as the delivery of quality service has often evaded him.
Carroll was instrumental in the 3-0 win over Wolves as he used his bulking frame to take down long balls with his chest and win countless headers to help launch attacks, and was picked out expertly by Charlie Adam to open the scoring, which suggests his strengths are now being recognised by his team-mates.
He also excelled against Manchester United as a target man in the FA Cup, controlling and holding up the ball with his strength and winning important flick-ons - most notably for Dirk Kuyt's winning goal. Carroll, during his time with Newcastle, appeared simply unplayable in the air which is clearly a template Liverpool must follow if there are to get the best out of the striker.
HE NEEDS TO PLAY REGULARLY
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Carroll once possessed the famous Newcastle No.9 shirt as he became the focal point of the club's play, something which he has never been afforded at Liverpool. Carroll is clearly a player that thrives on being the main man in attack though with the mercurial Luis Suarez snatching the mantle of the club's No.1 striker, the England man has seen his chances stifled.With Carroll rising to form in the absence of Suarez, Dalglish may choose to partner the two, something that he has often been so reluctant to do.
If Liverpool can tap into the Andy Carroll they signed from Newcastle, which will only come from a continued run in the side, they could find themselves with a striker making a key contribution with his growing confidence. A rotation system does not seem to suit the Englishman, who needs regular action to get into a rhythm.
HE DOESN'T NEED OUT-AND-OUT WINGERS
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Carroll appears at first glance to be the typical Premier League target man that thrives on wingers either side of him whipping in cross after cross, though this is not the case with the Liverpool forward. Stewart Downing was brought to the club in the summer for a hefty £20m transfer fee though has yet to entertain his new club with a single goal or assist.
Liverpool’s current first-choice wingers in this successful run are Dirk Kuyt and Craig Bellamy – two players that are not orthodox wide-men while Carroll has continually shown he would rather feed off balls through the middle.
During his time with Newcastle, two players that produced the best from Carroll were Joey Barton and Kevin Nolan, and in Charlie Adam and Steven Gerrard, Liverpool have two players that could help the striker emulate the success he found at his former club.
FANS WILL GIVE HIM TIME TO SUCCEED
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Chants of ‘There’s only one Andy Carroll’ rang around Molineux as Carroll put in arguably his best performance in a red shirt against Wolves. The Liverpool fans have never turned their back on a striker that has often been the subject of negative chants opposition supporters.
Joe Cole joined the club at the start of last season with huge expectation but when his career failed to lift off, the fans quickly lost patience with a player that was far from his best. A lack of fitness has been to blame for Carroll’s poor form but the effort has always been there and this is something which the Anfield faithful have bought into.
At just 23-years of age and coming out the other end of an incredibly testing year, there is every possibility that Andy Carroll can go on to be the focal point of Liverpool’s front line.
HE IS NEVER WORTH £35M
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Despite showing signs of real potential, Carroll will forever be reminded that he once cost £35m. While the striker was not responsible for his extortionate transfer fee, it must be accepted and forgotten that he is clearly not worth such a figure. Liverpool paid over the odds for one of the most exciting prospects in English football who many believed would have pushed on to be a key member of England’s plans for Euro 2012.
His year at Anfield has not gone how he had hoped and despite a clear upturn in form there is still someway he must go before his price-tag is not the first thing mentioned when talking about Andy Carroll. The striker still appears to be carrying more weight than he once had while wearing the black and white of Newcastle and while his physical presence is key to his game, the added beef is hampering his mobility.
There is often an excuse used for somebody failing as simply trying too hard and that has been the case for Carroll – chances that became ‘bread and butter’ for him while at Newcastle no longer appeared to find the back of the net.
While there is still a long way to go before he reaches his full potential, there is no doubt that he was hampered by a price tag that he will never fulfil, though more performances like the one against Wolves will go some way to show that Andy Carroll can be a Liverpool success.
Losing control - Manchester City's miserable New Year continues as Premier League pendulum swings back in United's favour The league leaders fell to an away defeat once again after ex-Red Devil Darron Gibson downed Mancini's men at Everton, with Sir Alex's side drawing level in the title race
Feb 1, 2012 9:00:00 AM
By Sam Bisby at Goodison Park
After 34 years of living in the colossal shadow of their neighbours, Manchester City began to see the light in 2011. Now, with January gone and with it two trophies taken from their grasp,Roberto Mancini has a fight on to keep some dark days away.
“It’s a bad night for me. I didn’t prepare well because I thought maybe this game was easier and you should know Goodison Park is never easy, never," said the Italian after his side slumped to a 1-0 defeat to Everton.
You would suspect he would like to deliver the same polemic on football management. The man with the greatest embarrassment of riches in English football was left humiliated with only himself to blame on Merseyside, and with Manchester United having caught up with their noisy neighbours, the Premier League pendulum is swinging back towards the red half of the city.
It seemed delightfully fitting that two veterans and a former youth product of Sir Alex Ferguson’s Premier League regime in Phil Neville, Tim Howard and Darron Gibson, were at the forefront of tormenting Mancini’s lacklustre outfit with their never-say-die attitude.
With such performances and characteristics, it is little surprise that David Moyes is being heavily associated with the vacant managerial position at Old Trafford when Sir Alex calls it a day. United’s win over Stoke brings the title challengers back to square one, with City’s dominant goal-difference the only buffer between them.
The Red Devils’ league record in the past month has somewhat mirrored that of City’s Cup run, with losses to Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United for the men in red putting them at a disadvantage to the Italian’s side, but they have somehow always kept hot on the heels of Mancini’s men, who have failed to assert control.
With defeats in both domestic Cups, the former Inter boss has halved his silverware prospects for the season and just the Europa League will remain if City succumb to the pressure mounting on them game-by-game and allow United’s experience in the hot seat to take the title from underneath their noses.
However, you would have to think that a man who has seen as much success as Mancini would not even bat an eyelid at winning Europe’s second-rate tournament and neither would the club’s billionaire owners.
Off the pitch, this month has also seen a multitude of failed moves for outcast striker Carlos Tevez, with offers from both AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain breaking down to further upset the balance of Manchester City.
The Argentine attacker will return to Carrington, much to the contrary of the benefit of club and player, with a painful five months ahead for the former United man as he and his now infamous representative Kia Joorabchian decide what will be the next step to force his Eastlands exit.
Mancini felt that all 16 of City’s remaining fixtures were winnable games before the loss to Everton. However, the defeat leaves their confidence deflated, especially with Ferguson’s side continuing to stalk them at the top of the table. By the time the two clash once more for the final time in April, it will be imperative for City to be leading the pack going into the home straight of the campaign.
Of course, with 15 matches left to play, the curtains are hardly closing on the season just yet, and City still have time to repair the damage but they must learn their lessons to do so. Underestimating teams is the first mistake they need never repeat, principally when they square up to United in a game that might just decide on the title.
Mancini’s side can also look upon their Salford counterparts and their 19 campaigns of absorbing the pressure to take the ultimate prize at the end, and might just conjure up something special to break the cycle and start a new era in English football.
Arsenal ignore their problems once again, Wolfsburg sign a new team - the losers of the January transfer window
We take an in-depth look at the dealings from the last month, picking out which teams failed to sign their targets, which had moves back-fire, and which were overall duds
Feb 1, 2012 12:30:00 PM
Much was promised in the January transfer window, but in the end, relatively little actually happened. In spite of widespread rumours linking them with moves, Carlos Tevez, Keisuke Honda, Giovani dos Santos, Lucas Barrios and more stayed put.
And as proposed deals collapsed left and right, many teams failed to bring in the reinforcements they had sought last month. Some even acted to sell first, assuming the eventual signing of a player who never came. Indeed, as the deadline struck, there were many 'losers.'
Below, we take a look at the teams that suffered most during the January transfer window.
AJAX
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IN A NUTSHELL
Failed to sign a much-needed winger, and sold the wrong player
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They were in the market for a new winger as in their current squad only Derk Boerrigter and Miralem Sulejmani are Ajax quality, and announced on deadline day that they wanted to sign Heerenveen star Luciano Narsingh. Nevertheless, the 21-year-old ruled out a move to the Amsterdam ArenA shortly after.
To make things even worse, Ajax lost one of their biggest talents for a relatively small fee as Netherlands Under-19 star Ouasim Bouy left the club for Juventus. The midfielder turned down a contract offer in December, and would have been available on a free this summer. Therefore, Ajax had little choice but to cash in on Bouy now.
And to cap a not so successful month, they failed to offload Mounir El Hamdaoui to Fiorentina. The Morocco international is one of the top earners in Amsterdam, but has not played a single game since April after falling out with head coach Frank de Boer. A move to the Viola seemed to be on the cards, but eventually fell through after Ajax demanded a bank guarantee minutes before the window closed, and Fiorentina could not present one on that short notice.
ARSENAL
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IN A NUTSHELL
Needed full-backs, signed an unproven, injury-prone midfielder
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Much of the damage was already done even before Deadline Day for Arsenal, who lost all three of their Premier League games this month largely because Arsene Wenger has had no fit full-backs in his squad.Arsenal should have signed a left-back, even on loan, to see them through this injury crisis while the news that Jack Wilshere could be out until the end of the season has left the Gunners lacking drive in midfield.
Despite having the highest ticket prices in the country and public proclamations that there is money available, Arsenal made just one signing this month, a €750,000 deal for relatively unknown Borussia Dortmund teenager Thomas Eisfeld.
The risk for Arsenal now is that they miss out on the top four finish this season and find themselves in a vicious circle in the summer, when it will be difficult to attract top quality players without the incentive of Champions League football.
LAZIO
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IN A NUTSHELL
Targeted forward reinforcements, but weakened their attack
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In a rare position of strength going into January, the Biancocelesti had high hopes of backing up their elevated league position with a good transfer campaign. However, despite sitting in the box seat in the race to sign Keisuke Honda, they ended up just missing out on the Japanese international's signature, and their late bid to raid Villarreal for Nilmar as a second choice option proved fruitless.
And while they have not lost names of note, they have certainly lost numbers. Djibril Cisse's summer move never came off, with only his debut goal against Milan to show for his 18 league games. But, due to the Honda and Nilmar failures, he has not been replaced.
Elsewhere, Antonio Candreva - who has flattered to deceive in countless settings over recent years - and Emiliano Alfaro have both come in, but they are the only incomings to offset six departures as an already shallow squad just got lighter.
Failing to sign the striking quality they sought while also reducing their squad size does not add up to a good month for Lazio.
MARSEILLE
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IN A NUTSHELL
Indirectly and unwittingly strengthened their rivals
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In a glorious case of irony, Marseille helped strengthen the top contenders for the Ligue 1 title, PSG. In letting Lucho Gonzalez leave for Porto, L'OM set in motion a string of transfers that ended with Thiago Motta moving to the Paris club.
Gonzalez had been struggling this season and was an acceptable loss for Marseille. However, his arrival at Porto allowed the Portuguese side to loan Fredy Guarin to Inter, which in turn facilitated PSG's move for the Brazilian midfielder.
Now, with nine points separating them from the leaders, Marseille have dug themselves an even greater deficit than before. A seemingly harmless move gone awry.
VILLARREAL
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IN A NUTSHELL
Aimed high, had to settle for a second-choice striker
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Having lost star midfielder Santi Cazorla in the summer, Villarreal got off to an awful start in La Liga, winning just one of their first nine games and lurking in the relegation zone before suffering another big blow as they lost striker Giuseppe Rossi to a serious injury.
The January window was just around the corner, though, and seemed an ideal time for the club to strengthen their struggling squad. A new striker was the priority, but the defence had also looked sub-standard and the midfield short of quality following the departure of Cazorla.
The club set their sights on Tottenham's Giovani dos Santos, but failure to free funds through the sale of Nilmar means the club were unable to sign the Mexican, and are stuck with an injury-prone and under-performing forward who does not want to be at the club.
Meanwhile, the deadline-day arrival of Argentine Alejandro Martinuccio looks like a Plan B at best and the squad remains short in other areas. The only plus point: the club have found some form under new coach Jose Molina. But they remain in the bottom three and desperately need to avoid further injuries if they are to beat the drop. This transfer window was a missed opportunity for Villarreal.
WOLFSBURG
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IN A NUTSHELL
Sold (almost) entire team, signed a new one
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When Monchengladbach host Wolfsburg on Saturday, Marco Reus & co. will recognise only a couple faces from the last time the two sides squared off. During the transfer window, Felix Magath made no fewer than eight signings, and sent away six either on loan or as full transfers.
Wolfsburg's willingness to freely move players in and out of the Volkswagen Arena is risky, and to some extent nonsensical. The Lower Saxons stand in mid-table now, and have absolutely no chance of qualifying for the Champions League. But with just five points separating them from potential relegation to the 2. Bundesliga, to roll the dice by making such wholesale changes is to take a massive risk.
It would be unfair to write off Wolfsburg's new signings already, but their policy has a familiar tune with an unsavoury precedent, and smacks of despair. Time will tell whether Magath has signed the next Dzeko, Misimovic and Grafite - or whether he simply signed the next batch of duds to be shown the door in six months.
Manchester United slash Liverpool ticket allocation for upcoming Premier League clash at Old Trafford
The Reds have been handed 1,000 fewer tickets than usually allocated in previous visits to their rivals, after making similar cuts at Anfield in recent seasons for safety
Djibril Cisse certain that QPR will avoid Premier League relegation this season
The 30-year-old bagged a goal on his debut as Mark Hughes' side earned a point against Aston Villa and he says he has no doubts that Rangers will stay up
Manchester United set to lose out on another prospect as defender Ezekiel Fryers snubs contract offer - report
The youngster is thought to be considering his future after contract talks reportedly stalled during a week which saw the highly-rated Ravel Morrison leave Old Trafford
Blackburn boss Steve Kean hopes to ‘move on’ from Christopher Samba transfer saga
The Rovers manager left the 27-year-old out of the side that fell to a 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle United on Wednesday, insisting his captain was not in the right frame of mind
Chelsea's John Terry will not step down as England captain - report
The Three Lions skipper has come under intense pressure after being charged for racially abusing QPR defender Anton Ferdinand, but is adamant he is not guilty and is standing firm
Mikel Arteta concedes it will be 'tough' for Arsenal to finish in the top four of the Premier League
The Gunners' 0-0 draw with Bolton Wanderers left them in seventh place and five points adrift of fourth place Chelsea, with the Spaniard admitting more consistency is needed
Manchester United full-back Rafael hopes injury return can boost Premier League title chances
The Brazilian defender has admitted finding his time spent on the sidelines 'difficult' but reveals that his twin brother Fabio helped him through the recovery period
Lille's Joe Cole expresses interest in coaching once playing days are over
The England international has been so enthused by the French champions' tactical intricacies that he may now consider moving into management after hanging up his boots
Carlos Tevez slams 'strange' transfer situation after Manchester City reject offers from Inter, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain
The 27-year-old forward claims the club prevented him from taking up offers "from Spain and Italy" but sees a move to Brazil or Argentina as a possibility in the future
Marseille's Andre-Pierre Gignac reveals Everton snub: I want to play at a bigger club like Manchester United
The French striker reportedly turned down several offers, including one from the Toffees, in order to stay at Stade Velodrome, despite finding first-team opportunities limited
Manchester United forced to rely on David de Gea against Chelsea and Liverpool as Anders Lindegaard is ruled out for four weeks – report
The Spaniard endured a difficult afternoon at Anfield in the FA Cup and will be called into action again after the Denmark international suffered reported ankle ligament damage
Road to nowhere - Arsenal slip up away from home once again as bogey side Bolton dent top four chances
A stalemate draw against the Trotters sees the Gunners in crisis and set to go without Champions League football for the first time in 16 years
Tottenham confirm signing of former Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Nelsen
The New Zealander's agent announced that the centre-back had agreed a six-month deal, with a further one-year option, with Spurs on Wednesday after leaving Ewood Park
Darron Gibson 'buzzing' after winning goal for Everton against Manchester City aids United's title push
The Irish midfielder made a huge impact on the Premier League race after his winner sent his former side level at the top of the table with Robert Mancini's men
New QPR signing Bobby Zamora knocked back Al Jazira approach, reveals coach Frank Vercauteren
The big striker said he wants to focus on making the England squad for the 2012 European Championships and isn't interested in an UAE switch
Ryo Miyaichi: I want to do what Arsenal's Jack Wilshere did on loan at Bolton
The Japanese teenager believes Owen Coyle's side play a technical style of football which will suit him. He also revealed Arsene Wenger told him to go enjoy himself at Bolton
Arsene Wenger: Every Premier League game for Arsenal is now a cup final
The Frenchman saw his team leave the Reebok Stadium with a disappointing draw after squandering numerous chances, but insists a top-four finish is still in reach
Djibril Cisse will be vital for QPR this season, claims Mark Hughes
The QPR boss was pleased with a point against Aston Villa, despite seeing his side squander a two-goal lead
New Chelsea signing Kevin De Bruyne sets sights on first-team berth
The 20-year-old is set for a loan spell back in Belgium for the rest of the season but has expressed his desire to break into manager Andre Villas-Boas' plans
Chicago Fire head coach: We are not interested in bringing in Bayer Leverkusen's Michael Ballack
The 45-year-old coach says that the Fire's midfield doesn't need improvement and ruled out a move for Michael Ballack, but he has left the door open for Didier Drogba.
Harry Redknapp’s transfer dealings for Tottenham mean Premier League ‘not just a two-horse race’, declares Iain Dowie
The former QPR and Hull manager believes that the recruitment of Louis Saha on deadline day was a canny move from the Spurs boss and says they will challenge for the title
Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany taking Everton loss on the chin
The Belgium international defender admitted his disappointment with Tuesday night's 1-0 loss but insisted that losing games is inevitable now and then
Official: Liverpool sign 19-year-old Joao Carlos from Sporting CP
The Reds pushed through a deal to bring the Portugal youth international midfielder from the Lisbon outfit after he impressed their scouts in a NextGen Series match in August
Arsenal youngster Francis Coquelin keen to play ‘whatever the position’
The 20-year-old is focused on getting games under his belt and, whilst normally a midfielder, is happy to fill in for the likes of the injured Bacary Sagna and Andre Santos
Manchester United slash Liverpool ticket allocation for upcoming Premier League clash at Old Trafford
The Reds have been handed 1,000 fewer tickets than usually allocated in previous visits to their rivals, after making similar cuts at Anfield in recent seasons for safety
Feb 2, 2012 4:25:00 PM
By Nathan Lowe
Manchester United have slashed the amount of tickets allocated to travelling Liverpool fans for next weekend's Premier League clash.
The Merseyside club had reduced the amount of tickets released to United fans for each of the sides' last two fixtures after security concerns regarding ticket forgeries and standing in aisles.
United have now lowered the allocation for Liverpool fans for next Saturday's clash from 3,100 to 2,100, Manchester Evening News reports.
“This was considered necessary to allow for additional stewarding and segregation plans," a spokesman for the Red Devils said.
The move comes despite initial reports that the Manchester club would not reduce the allocation simply as a result of cuts at Anfield.
Before the two rivals meet next weekend, the champions will travel to Chelesa on Sunday while Liverpool host Tottenham a day later.
Re: The world most expensive bench warmer is pretty choosy
Andre Villas-Boas disagrees with decision to strip John Terry of England captaincy
The Portuguese coach has once again stood by the 31-year-old, after the FA opted to remove Three Lions armband for the second time in his career on Friday
Vincent Kompany insists Manchester City can handle the pressure as they challenge for the Premier League title
Citizens' captain believes high-pressure is nothing new to the squad after their rise to prominence as title challengers and backs his team for glory come the end of the season
Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas reveals John Terry ruled out of Manchester United clash due to knee injury
The Blues skipper, who hit the headlines again on Friday after the FA stripped him of the England captaincy, remains out of action with a knee problem and will not play on Sunday
Roberto Mancini reveals it is ‘possible’ Carlos Tevez could feature for Manchester City this season
Argentine striker has been included in Citizens' Premier League squad and the Italian manager has confirmed that if the player returns and is fit, then he could play
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand rules himself out of running to replace John Terry as England captain
Former England skipper not interested in resuming the role after Chelsea skipper is removed from the national post after accusation of racism towards Anton Ferdinand
Sir Alex Ferguson confirms Manchester United goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard to miss four to six weeks with ankle injury
Danish stopper has picked up an ankle ligament injury, leaving the Old Trafford boss with a nervy David de Gea and the inexperienced Ben Amos for Sunday's trip to Stamford Bridge
Roberto Mancini hails 'great' Eden Hazard & 'interesting' Mamadou Sakho but denies duo are part of Manchester City's immediate plans
Citizens boss admires Ligue 1 starlets but suggests he is not looking to bolster his attacking options, ruling out an imminent move for the Belgian wonderkid
Juan Mata insists Chelsea are 'not functioning well' ahead of meeting with 'spectacular' Manchester United
Former Valencia man reveals the entire Stamford Bridge squad is unhappy with their recent performances and backs Fernando Torres to end his goal drought against the champions
FA strip Chelsea's John Terry of England captaincy
The 31-year-old has been removed from the post for the second time in his career after allegations of racial abuse directed at QPR defender Anton Ferdinand
Manchester City's Carlos Tevez still intent on going to Italy or Spain
The unsettled Argentine insists that he would only consider a move to Serie A or La Liga, despite his transfer to AC Milan failing to materialise in the January window
Carlo Ancelotti: AC Milan's Alexandre Pato & Real Madrid's Kaka still transfer targets for Paris Saint-Germain
The Italian coach has made it clear that the Ligue 1 giants have not given up hopes of signing the Brazil internationals, despite missing out on the pair in January
Chelsea scout delivers glowing report over Lille's Eden Hazard after watching him 'more than 20 times'
Blues French scout Guy Hillion claims to have always given a '100% positive' write-up every time he has seen the Belgian star who is valued by his current club at €35 million
Mikel Arteta blasts Arsenal form after draw with Bolton: Once again we've not been good enough
After picking up just one point from their last four games Spaniard calls on the Gunners to add a clinical edge to their game as they struggle to maintain pace with the top teams
Risky business - Poor form & lack of big-name signings are putting Chelsea's top four chase in jeopardy
Unbeaten in 2012 they may be, but the Blues have been far from convincing and a lack of January signings could cost the club a top four finish and the manager his job
'Similar to Xavi & a perfect complement to David Silva' - introducing Manchester City new boy David Pizarro
The midfielder was frozen out at Roma by Luis Enrique this season but he may be the addition which could tip the Premier League title hunt in Roberto Mancini's favour
'Manchester City still on course for Premier League title without me' - Yaya Toure
The former Barcelona midfielder is currently representing Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations but is still tracking affairs at his club side very carefully
FA Cup final and Premier League fixtures to be provisionally scheduled on separate days
After last season saw a clash between the final and the Premier League programme, it has been decided that the pair should feature on separate days over one weekend
Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna believes his injury absence has improved him as a player
The French international was delighted with the reception he received following his return to the Gunners' first-team following four months out with a broken leg
Everton new boy Nikica Jelavic up for Premier League challenge
The Croatia international believes he can adapt to the rigours of English football with the Toffees after a £5.5m move following two successful years in the SPL with Rangers
Steven Pienaar reveals transfer day drama after last-minute loan move back to Everton
The South Africa captain is relishing a second spell at Goodison Park after an eleventh-hour deal and admits convincing Spurs boss Harry Redknapp to let him go was no short order
Tottenham's Kevin Bond: Experience of new signings Louis Saha and Ryan Nelsen vital
Spurs' number two believes the former Manchester United striker and Blackburn defender will boost title hopes with their knowledge of the pressures of big games
Police investigate alleged racial abuse targeting Newcastle's Shola Ameobi
An investigation has been launched after the Magpies striker was reportedly the target of racist comments made on social networking site Facebook
Re: The world most expensive bench warmer is pretty choosy
FA strip Chelsea's John Terry of England captaincy The 31-year-old has been removed from the post for the second time in his career after allegations of racial abuse directed at QPR defender Anton Ferdinand
Feb 3, 2012 11:20:21 AM
By Rob Stewart
John Terry has been stripped of the England captaincy by Football Association officials due to concerns about his impending trial over racism allegations.
The Chelsea defender has been told that he will not skipper the national side as Euro 2012 looms as he fights to clear his name in a racism trial that will take place in the summer, although he will still be eligible for selection.
Officials at the FA are refusing to confirm the move but it is believed FA chairman David Bernstein broke the news to Terry in a 10am phone call after speaking with every member of the 14-strong board after confirmation the 31-year-old's court case will take place from July 9 - after Euro 2012.
Terry suffered the indignity of losing the captaincy after the majority of the FA board decided that he should quit the position over allegations that he racially abused QPR's Anton Ferdinand, a charge which he denies.
An official FA statement reads: "Following the decision to adjourn the court case against John Terry to July, The Football Association confirm he will not captain the England team until the allegations against him are resolved."The FA Board expected the trial to be concluded prior to the European Championship. Further to Wednesday’s confirmation that the trial will not take place until after the tournament, the Board has discussed the matter in detail and has collectively decided it is in the interests of all parties that John has the responsibilities of captaincy removed at this time.
"This decision has been taken due to the higher profile nature of the England captaincy, on and off the pitch, and the additional demands and requirements expected of the captain leading into and during a tournament."
This decision in no way infers any suggestion of guilt in relation to the charge made against John Terry. The FA will be not be making any further comment on this matter. It is the second time the Chelsea centre-half has been stripped of the England armband as he also lost the role two years ago amid allegations over his private life, althought the FA also confirmed that the defender will still be eligible for selection.
"The FA Board can confirm that he has not been excluded from the squad and that Fabio Capello is free to select him for the Holland fixture on 29 February and the European Championship."FA Chairman David Bernstein has spoken to both John Terry and Fabio Capello to explain the facts to them. Fabio Capello has not been involved in The FA Board discussions which reached this conclusion, but understands that The FA Board has authority to make this decision.
"Fabio Capello will take the decision as to who will be made captain moving forward."
The FA decided that it was inappropriate for Terry to remain as a figurehead for the country due to the seriousness of the allegations that are hanging over him currently and have acted with urgency to resolve the situation. Action was taken after concern was expressed about the FA’s ability to take the moral high ground should racism rear its head at Euro 2012 if Terry remained the team’s figurehead.
The FA’s next board meeting is not due to take place until February 23 but Bernstein has expedited the matter, as pressure on the game’s governing body to act intensified following Terry’s not-guilty plea before magistrates on Wednesday. Terry's barrister entered the formal not guilty plea at Westminster Magistrates' Court.
England manager Fabio Capello had insisted that Terry should be regarded as innocent until proven guilty and he wanted to make the decision but the FA board have taken the matter out of the Italian’s hands. A spokesman for the player was unavailable for comment on Friday morning.
Re: The world most expensive bench warmer is pretty choosy
Police investigate alleged racial abuse targeting Newcastle's Shola Ameobi An investigation has been launched after the Magpies striker was reportedly the target of racist comments made on social networking site Facebook
Feb 2, 2012 6:08:00 PM
By Nathan Lowe
Police are investigating allegations that Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi was the target of racial abuse on Facebook, the authorities and club officials confirmed.
The forward is said to have been the subject of an abusive internet campaign on the social networking site, a claim Northumbria police are now looking into.
The allegation is yet another in a long line of incidents regarding racial abuse to hit English football this season alone.
Liverpool's Luis Suarez is set to return from his eight-match ban for racially abusing Patrice Evra in the club's next fixture and Chelsea captain John Terry appeared in court this week over his alleged abuse of QPR defender Anton Ferdinand.
Magpies officials confirmed in a statement that they were fully co-operating with authorities on the matter.
"We have liaised with Northumbria Police and the matter is now in their hands," a spokesman said.
"We have a zero-tolerance approach to racism and will always seek to take the strongest possible action."
Northumbria Police also insisted that the remarks are being taken very seriously.
"We have received a report of racist comments made on Facebook, on which we're working closely with Newcastle United," a police spokesman said.
"Northumbria Police take all reports of racist abuse very seriously and inquiries are being conducted."
Re: The world most expensive bench warmer is pretty choosy
FA Cup final and Premier League fixtures to be provisionally scheduled on separate days
After last season saw a clash between the final and the Premier League programme, it has been decided that the pair should feature on separate days over one weekend
Feb 2, 2012 11:09:00 PM
By Michael Lightfoot
The FA Cup final will be provisionally scheduled for Saturday May 5, after the Premier League agreed to move their quota of games to the Sunday.
Both the final and the Premier League were played on the same day last season and their was a feeling that the 'magic' of the cup had been lost as people had vested interests elsewhere.
That day saw Manchester City overcome Stoke City at Wembley and Manchester United crowned Premier League champions for a record 19th time following a draw at Blackburn Rovers.
These two feats should have had a day each for both sets of fans to enjoy and this time around the mistake of scheduling them together has been realised as they will be played over two days.
A Premier League spokesperson said: "We realise that it is not good for either competition to have our matches conflicting with the FA Cup."
However, this is only provisional as matches out of the Premier League's hands could ruin the schedule.
Should one of the English contingent still left in the Europa League make it to the final of the competition, then the Premier League would have to move their programme back a day - FA Cup final day - to give the team an extra 24 hours to prepare for the Wednesday fixture.
Shanghai Shenhua owner Zhu Jun: Didier Drogba negotiations are at a deadlock
The Ivory Coast striker will see out the 2011-12 season with Chelsea before becoming a free agent where a host of clubs are expected to be interested in him
Japanese teenager Ryo Miyaichi in line for Bolton debut at Norwich City
The young winger could make his Premier League debut at Carrow Road on Saturday, after Owen Coyle confirmed he'd travel with his new team-mates to East Anglia
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger considering resting Robin van Persie against Blackburn Rovers
The Gunners captain could be given a rest against Steve Kean's side at the Emirates, with Thierry Henry, Park Chu-Young and Theo Walcott potential candidates to replace him
Chelsea's Petr Cech sympathises with under-fire Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea
The Czech Republic international has backed his opposite number to adapt to life in the Premier League ahead of the two sides' meeting at Stamford Bridge on Sunday
Daniel Sturridge: Manchester United game is a chance to prove Chelsea can still compete at the top
The England international wants the Blues to show they can still "mix it at the top" against United and admits they have been too inconsistent so far this season
Manchester United's Ezekiel Fryers insists he has not rejected new contract
The Old Trafford youngster has taken to Twitter to hit back at reports claiming he has turned down a new deal, insisting he has not rejected an offer from the club
Louis Saha hails Tottenham confidence & relishes prospect of playing alongside Emmanuel Adebayor and Rafael van der Vaart
The former Manchester United striker is looking forward to getting started at White Hart Lane after making a shock move to Spurs from Everton on transfer deadline day
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson anticipating tight Chelsea clash after 'crazy' reverse fixture at Old Trafford
The manager believes Sunday's game at Stamford Bridge will be less end-to-end than the previous meeting between the two clubs at Old Trafford earlier this season
Fulham boss Martin Jol accepts causing upset against Manchester City will be tough task
The Cottagers held Roberto Mancini's side to a 2-2 draw back in September, but the league leaders are yet to drop a single point at the Etihad Stadium this campaign
Tottenham winger Gareth Bale & Swansea City boss Brendan Rodgers named Barclays Player & Manager of the Month
The Spurs winger has scored three times for the north London side, while the Swans coach guided the club to wins over Aston Villa & Arsenal and held Chelsea to a draw
David Pizarro claims he rejected Juventus for Manchester City because of Roberto Mancini
The 32-year-old says he opted to join the Premier League leaders on loan from Roma because of his work with the Italian coach in the past and praised his boss' leadership
Santos president claims Willian is Chelsea bound
The Blues reportedly tried to sign the midfielder during the January transfer window but it now seems that they have a deal in place to sign him in the summer
Liverpool & England star Stewart Downing will not face charges for assault allegation - report
The former Aston Villa man was cleared of any wrongdoing by Cleveland Police, although the woman arrested with him on January 8 remains on bail for alleged assault
Manchester City's Roberto Mancini admits lifting Premier League title will not be easy with Manchester United chasing
The Blues are top of the league on goal difference alone but the Italian coach insists the title will not be won in January or February, but at the end of the season
Arsene Wenger confirms Andrey Arshavin set to stay at Arsenal
There were rumours that the 30-year-old could move back to a Russian club with their transfer window still open, but the Frenchman insisted the attacker will be staying
Liverpool's Jamie Carragher: ‘Tottenham have been most impressive team this season’
Spurs crushed the Reds last September with a 4-0 win at White Hart Lane in the Premier League, but the 34-year-old is confident that the team will get revenge at Anfield
‘We are all under pressure from Jose Mourinho’ - Chelsea's Andre Villas-Boas wary of Real Madrid coach
Having worked under the Portuguese manager, the current Blues boss - who has only been at Stamford Bridge since the summer - is worried about his return to English football
Jose Mourinho to make spectacular Chelsea return & leave Real Madrid in summer - report
The 'Special One’ has taken the Spanish giants to top of La Liga but is rumoured to be considering a return to Stamford Bridge if owner Roman Abramovich will give him more control
Kenny Dalglish confirms Steven Gerrard set to return to Liverpool's squad for clash with Tottenham
The Reds skipper was rested for the meeting with Wolves as he is slowly reintroduced following injury problems and could be joined by Luis Suarez who has served his ban
Risky business - Poor form & lack of big-name signings are putting Chelsea's top four chase in jeopardy
Unbeaten in 2012 they may be, but the Blues have been far from convincing and a lack of January signings could cost the club a top four finish and the manager his job
Feb 3, 2012 9:19:48 AM
By Liam Twomey
Andre Villas-Boas is ever the optimist. But as his Chelsea side gear up for a clash with Manchester United on Sunday which could shape the rest of their season, it would be understandable if anxiety too begins to make a home for itself in his troubled mind.
A glance at recent results might suggest little is wrong at Stamford Bridge - unbeaten in 2012, three points clear in the race to land that much-coveted fourth Champions League spot, and still in with a chance of catching Tottenham in third.
But don’t be fooled. The Chelsea revolution is stuttering.
The New Year has brought with it vital points, but not performances. Victories over Wolves and Sunderland were only achieved with great difficulty and rather generous helpings of luck, while Norwich and Swansea proved too difficult to overcome.
Talk of a defensive crisis has been somewhat subdued by a recent record of only two goals conceded in six matches in all competitions, even if worrying signs remain that the west Londoners are still as vulnerable as at any point in the Roman Abramovich era.
It is, however, matters at the other end of the pitch which are the most concerning. Fernando Torres’ ongoing struggles are well documented, but the Spaniard's drought should be viewed as a symptom of the problem, rather than the cause.
Bedding in | Former Bolton man Gary Cahill still hasn't made his Chelsea debut
The reality is that no Chelsea player has yet reached 10 Premier League goals, and the team has only scored more than once in one of the last eight matches in all competitions. Daniel Sturridge has lost form, Frank Lampard has lost fitness and the rest have failed to step up.
Even against limited opposition, Chelsea have forgotten how it feels to have an easy game. In a season which has shown little respect for reputations this is nothing out of the ordinary, but then, Chelsea are not supposed to be in the business of being ordinary.
Off the field, senior players already irked by Villas-Boas’ desire for a radical overhaul of the club’s personnel and philosophy have become further ostracised by his perceived aloof managerial style, and the union between the two is now one of necessity rather than affection.
When adversity came calling last January, Chelsea’s response was to roll the dice in the transfer market, to the tune of over £70 million on Fernando Torres and David Luiz. Twelve months on, however, they appeared unwilling to even play the game.
"At their best this season, Chelsea resemble a promising team in transition. At their worst, they appear an unwieldy mess"
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Kevin De Bruyne arrived from Genk, before swiftly returning home until at least the summer. Nottingham Forest’s 18-year-old striker Patrick Bamford was also acquired with both eyes on the future. Gary Cahill is the only winter addition offering hope of an immediate impact.
Prospective moves for Lille sensation Eden Hazard and Shakhtar ace Willian – two genuine talents with much to offer Chelsea’s tepid attack – were quashed by Villas-Boas’ bizarre refusal to countenance signings ineligible for the current Champions League campaign.
Given the desirability of the duo, particularly Hazard, such dithering could cost the Blues in the summer should Real Madrid, Barcelona or Manchester City decide to join the chase. But it is in the here and now that a lack of January investment could be most keenly felt.
At their best this season, Chelsea resemble a promising team in transition. At their worst, they appear an unwieldy mess. Even more troubling for Villas-Boas is the fact his men have rarely produced anything in between.
Undermined by such beguiling inconsistency, it seems all the more strange that a club with no traditional aversion to spending would pass up an opportunity to steel themselves for one of the most hotly contested top four races in years.
Perhaps, with Financial Fair Play on the horizon, Abramovich is wary of bankrolling another huge outlay. The loss of Champions League football, however, would surely make a bigger dent in the balance sheet than one or two big-name signings.
More likely is that Villas-Boas’ positivity prevailed. In spite of tactical weaknesses, a lack of goals and dressing room unrest, the confident young Portuguese still backs himself and his squad to preserve Chelsea’s seat at Europe’s top table, as well as his own job security.
It is, undeniably, a gamble, and the stakes could not be higher. Liverpool have momentum, Arsenal have players returning and surprise packages Newcastle are unburdened by expectation.
Ultimate success or failure will not be determined by the outcome of Manchester United’s visit to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, but it is nevertheless a significant moment.
Defeat at Old Trafford back in September marked the beginning of Chelsea’s struggles. Victory over the same opponents now could reinvigorate them.
On Sunday, Villas-Boas will begin to learn the consequences of his gamble. Win, and he will have good reason to be optimistic. Lose, and anxiety will take hold.
