Barclays Premier League Season 2011/2012

[David Luiz]

Liverpool bring in new financial chief

Liverpool's owners have brought in a familiar face to help run the financial side of the business with the announcement they have appointed Billy Hogan as chief commercial officer.

Hogan was previously managing director at Fenway Sports Management, the global sponsorship arm of Fenway Sports Group who own both the Merseysiders and Boston Red Sox baseball team.

He will be responsible for all club-controlled revenue and business development, including sponsorships, ticketing and hospitality, retail and merchandise, club memberships, club tours and friendlies as well as Liverpool FC's Soccer Schools.

"Having worked at a senior level within Fenway Sports Management, Billy has been working alongside LFC for the last 18 months on a number of partnership projects and brings with him a rich pedigree of expertise and resource," managing director Ian Ayre told liverpoolfc.tv.

"In many respects this appointment reflects the great spirit of partnership between all of the Fenway Sports Group and LFC."

Of that period Hogan said: "I've witnessed first-hand the passion and loyalty fans have for this club and I look forward to working with the staff, partners and future sponsors to grow and develop Liverpool's brand and commercial presence globally to help ensure the long-term growth of this storied club."

The club have also brought in a new corporate relations and communications director in former Sports Illustrated senior editor Jen Chang.
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[David Luiz]

The King is Dead, Long Live King Beni

When Kenny Dalglish replaced Roy Hodgson as Liverpool manager in January 2011 he admitted he faced a ‘big challenge’, but it was expected that the Kop legend would be allowed a long spell on his Liverpool throne.

King Kenny had waited 20 years to make his comeback special at Anfield, but after delivering Liverpool’s worst Premiership finish in 18 years he was given his marching orders by American owners Fenway Sports Group.

Swayed by the will of the Liverpool fans FSG followed the managerial selection template previously employed at Newcastle with Kevin Keegan and Alan Shearer, by appointing a terrace hero in an attempt to revive the glory days.

Reaching the FA Cup Final and securing Liverpool's first trophy in six years by lifting the Carling Cup was not deemed good enough to make up for a dismal Premier League campaign and now the Boston based owners will attempt to find the right man to bring Champions League football back to the club.

Roberto Martinez, Andre Villas-Boas and Fabio Cappello are amongst the favourites to replace King Ken and the club has announced that it will talk to as many as twelve candidates before making a decision, although three of the most popular candidates have already publicly ruled themselves out of contention.

In the wake of Kenny's departure from the club there has been an upsurge in support from the return of another of Liverpool's prodigal son's, Rafa Benitez. The Spaniard is currently unemployed, living in Wirral and like Dalglish is a fan favourite at Anfield.

Is it time for the return of King Beni(tez)?

 

[David Luiz]

Gary Caldwell: Martinez must take Liverpool job
The Wigan captain has urged the Spaniard to move to Anfield should an official offer be made to him by the Reds, praising his manager's calming influence and level-headedness

Former Manchester United skipper Keane brands QPR's Barton a 'liability'
The ex-Sunderland boss hits out at the Loftus Road captain but believes Hoops boss Mark Hughes cannot simply let the midfielder leave, as it could cost the London club £11 million

Ivanovic: I know that Real Madrid want me
The Serbian defender affirmed that he knows about Los Blancos' interest in his services, but noted that he does not think about leaving the Blues after their continental success

Ramsey: To be title contenders, Arsenal must keep Van Persie
The Welsh midfielder has warned that the Gunners cannot let their Dutch goalscorer and captain leave if they want to compete to be crowned Premier League champions next season

Tottenham's reasons to keep me are unconvincing, says Dos Santos
The Mexico international forward insists that he is "not convinced" by the explanations that he has been given when asking about a transfer away from White Hart Lane

Newton: Di Matteo still in dark over Chelsea future
The interim manager's assistant has admitted the coaching staff are still unaware of their future at Stamford Bridge despite lifting the Champions League and FA Cup

Swansea goalkeeper Vorm happy to stay with the club
The Dutch keeper has played down rumours that he could be making a move away from the Liberty Stadium and insists his family are happily settled in southern Wales

'I have talked to other clubs' - Bendtner
The out-of-favour Arsenal striker claims to have received approaches from various clubs but says he will not make a decision on his future until after Euro 2012

Walker aiming to recover in time for Olympics
The Spurs youngster is hoping to be fit in time to represent Team GB at the London Games this summer, after missing out on Euro 2012 with a broken toe

Newcastle boss Pardew glad to avoid Champions League 'heartbreak'
The Magpies just missed out on the top four but would have been denied qualification for Europe's premier competition anyway by virtue of Chelsea's win in the final

Klinsmann hopes Dempsey will join a club in the Champions League
The USA boss has backed the Fulham attacker's wish to leave Craven Cottage this summer in order to test himself at the highest level next season

Howard backs Jelavic to kick on for Everton next season
The Toffees goalkeeper says he cannot wait to see what the Croatian can achieve in a full Premier League season, after netting 11 goals since his move from Rangers in January

Trabzonspor's Gunes hints at move for Bolton midfielder Lee Chung-Yong
The Turkish side's boss has hinted that he would like to sign his former protege from their time at FC Seoul, with the Trotters resigned to losing their players after relegation.

Edin Dzeko insists he is happy to stay put at Manchester City
The Bosnian has not been the first name on the teamsheet this season with Sergio Aguero and David Silva stealing the headlines, but he feels he still has a role to play

 

[David Luiz]

Man Utd have Kagawa offer rejected

By Andrew Tuft

Saturday 26 May 2012

Manchester United’s offer for Borussia Dortmund’s Shinji Kagawa has been rejected by the Bundesliga club, the Daily Mail has reported, but the newspaper adds that Sir Alex Ferguson has not given up hope of landing the Japanese international.​

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The Mail adds that United offered in the region of £13m for the 26-year-old midfielder but Dortmund are standing firm, unwilling to countenance offers less than £16m.

Such a transfer would represent a huge profit for the German club after signing Kagawa for 350,000 euros two years ago.

United are likely to make an improved offer in the new few weeks as the player fits the desired profile for new faces at Old Trafford - relatively young and comparatively inexpensive.

Kagawa was an integral part of Dortmund’s title-winning side, helping Jurgen Klopp’s side to the trophy by an eight-point margin from Bayern Munich with 13 goals in 31 league games.

Ferguson reportedly watched Kagawa during Dortmund’s 5-2 German Cup final victory over Bayern earlier in May.​

 

[David Luiz]

Sochaux winger Ryad Boudebouz reveals Liverpool are interested in signing him
The Algerian midfielder claims that the Reds have joined the race with Lyon, Lille and Marseille for his signature this summer, but admits nothing concrete has happened as yet

 

[David Luiz]

Sunday 27th May 2012

Redmond: Reds celebrated City's win

Former Manchester City captain Steve Redmond claims Liverpool fans were rooting for the team to win the Premier League title.

By ESPNSTAR staff

On an action-packed final match day, Manchester City nicked the Premier League title from rivals Manchester United because of their superior goal-difference.

Redmond reflected on the events that unfolded and the feelings he had while watching City's 3-2 win over Queens Park Rangers. The Englishman believes it was not just the club's fans who celebrated their title win, as Liverpool supporters also rejoiced with them.

"It was an unbelievable day, one I’ll never forget, when Sergio Aguero scored in the last minute, myself and my lad went wild – and he’s a Liverpool fan! A guy over the road who supports Everton had his window open and he was going ballistic, too," he shared with the club's official website.

"Liverpool fans have never had a problem with City so I think we were all willing the Blues to win the title. Obviously our rivalry with United comes into play a little!"

Occupying a central defensive position during his playing days, Redmond considers the current pairing of Joleon Lescott and Vincent Kompany to have played vital roles in the club achieving its first title in 44 years.

"In my opinion, Lescott has come on leaps and bounds, I wasn’t a fan of his at Everton but now he’s really got his act together and the balance with Kompany is perfect," he said.

"The communication is spot-on and when one makes a great tackle the other one high-fives them so to have that kind camaraderie and understanding is special."
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[David Luiz]

Sunday 27th May 2012

Van Gaal close to joining Liverpool

Fenway Sports Group look set to appoint Louis Van Gaal as Sporting Director of Liverpool.

Van Gaal, who is currently unemployed, has reportedly been identified by the top hierarchy in Liverpool as the right man to take on the role of Sporting Director of the club.

The Sun reports the 60-year-old Dutchman as having told those close to him that he is currently considering an offer from Liverpool, following a series of conference calls with the club's owners.

It is understood that the Van Gaal has expressed his preference to be installed as the manager instead, a position recently vacated by Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, but FSG seem intent on bringing in Wigan's Roberto Martinez to fill that role.

Liverpool Winger Dirk Kuyt has also backed his Dutch compatriot to succeed at Liverpool.

‘He is a Dutchman, has a great track record and experience that the club could put to good use. (But) as a player, it is not usual to say what you think of candidates. Kuyt told De Telegraaf.

‘At the moment, Liverpool have no coach or technical director. Each club benefits from structure. You look at the Dutch national team and see that consistency and clarity are important.'

Louis Van Gaal would bring in a wealth of experience to the Liverpool set up, having had successful coaching stints with Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern.
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[David Luiz]

Sunday 27th May 2012

Martinez to announce decision on Tuesday

Liverpool's hunt for a new manager could be over after it emerged that Roberto Martinez was set to announce his future plans on Tuesday.

It is understood Wigan will hold a press conference this week in which Martinez is expected to announce whether or not he will stay at the club.

The 38-year-old met Liverpool's owners in Miami on Thursday to discuss the managerial vacancy and was not put off by the huge challenge that would face any new manager.

However, it is understood Martinez has not made up his mind completely whether to accept that challenge and has given himself until Tuesday to do so.

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan claimed on Friday the Spaniard had received an offer from Liverpool's principal owner John Henry after their meeting in Miami on Thursday.

Doubts emerged over Whelan's interpretation of the situation, with the Reds refusing to comment amid the general belief no formal offer had been made.

Martinez's appointment would doubtless divide opinion among Liverpool supporters, some of whom may have been expecting a bigger name to be recruited to replace the sacked Kenny Dalglish.

But captain Steven Gerrard has already pledged his full support to Martinez should he get the job.

Gerrard, preparing for Saturday night's England friendly against Norway, was a big supporter of Dalglish but cautiously welcomed the idea of Martinez taking charge.

"We'll have to wait and see," said the midfielder.

"My focus has been on the game. I'm aware Roberto Martinez has been talking to the club but all I've heard about him is positive.

"If he is going to be the manager, he's got my full support."

Throughout the process, Whelan has insisted it was not a foregone conclusion he would lose his manager to the club's north west rivals, claiming there were still some issues - mainly surrounding working under a technical director - to be overcome before Martinez would even be in a position to accept.

"He went to Miami and had a very constructive meeting with the owner of Liverpool," the Latics chairman told Sky Sports News.

"They're going to talk again on Tuesday. They've made Roberto an offer and he has agreed to consider it.

"He's said, 'What are my responsibilities?' These are American owners and the rules and regulations are a bit different from what we English set down.

"Roberto is a seven-days-a-week, 12-hours-a-day worker and I don't know whether they realise how hard he works.

"He has rules and regulations to be fully in charge of football and I know he won't move anywhere unless he is fully in charge of the football.

"I think he'll give it fair consideration. Hopefully, he stays with us but, wherever he goes, he's 100 per cent dedicated to that football club."

Liverpool, who have also been linked with former Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas and Swansea's Brendan Rodgers, are looking to finalise the technical director post, with which Dutchman Louis van Gaal has been linked.
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[David Luiz]

Poyet backs Di Matteo for full-time Chelsea role
Brighton boss believes Roman Abramovich should hand the Stamford Bridge reins to his former team-mate after his Champions League and FA Cup successes in his short stint in charge

Cech signs new four-year Chelsea contract
The 30-year-old keeper, who saved two penalties in the Champions League final shoot-out win against Bayern Munich, has signed a deal to keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2016

Wigan chairman Whelan gives Liverpool until Thursday to wrap up Martinez deal
The Latics supremo is in danger of losing his manager and has set the Merseyside club three days to decide on his future, but hopes that they will opt for Brendan Rodgers

Joe Cole 'would love' Liverpool opportunity next season
After a successful season on loan in northern France, the 56-cap England international is looking to the future and believes he has unfinished business with his parent club

Swansea insist no contact made by Liverpool over manager Brendan Rodgers
Swans reveal Reds have not followed up interest in 39-year-old after he initially declined to speak with them following the sacking of Kenny Dalglish earlier this month

Swansea City agree club-record £6.8m fee for Sigurdsson
The 22-year-old Iceland international, who arrived in Wales on loan in January, has agreed personal terms and will complete his move from Hoffenheim following a medical

'I don't know about my future' - Dos Santos set for Tottenham talks
The Mexican has made just 30 appearances in four years at White Hart Lane and is set for a showdown with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy upon his return from international duty

10:35
Campbell: England fans could end up coming back from Euro 2012 in a coffin
The former Arsenal defender disagreed with Uefa's claims that the tournament creates opportunities to reduce racism, and believes that Poland & Ukraine should not be hosts

'My future is at Manchester City' - Aguero
The Argentine striker wants to stay with Roberto Mancini's side despite reports linking him with a move to Real Madrid after just one season in the Premier League

Agger: No boundaries to what Christian Eriksen can achieve
The Liverpool defender has nothing but praise for his young compatriot, and feels the Ajax man can become a world-class star if he shows a more "dominant and aggressive" side

Huddersfield confident of keeping hotshot Rhodes as Fulham hover
Town owner says that the newly-promoted Yorkshire club are determined to play hardball as Premier League clubs prepare to pounce for Scotland international striker

Sevilla in hunt for Reo-Coker - agent
The former England Under-21 midfielder has left Bolton after activating a relegation release clause in his contract and is now being courted by the Spanish side

Yakubu determined to leave Blackburn after relegation from Premier League
The Nigerian striker does not want to drop down to the Championship with the demoted Lancashire side as newly-promoted Reading and Southampton battle for his signature

Evra urges Hazard to pick Manchester United over City
The Red Devils left-back has promised Lille's talented attacker that he will win more trophies at Old Trafford, and urged him to spurn bids from other interested parties

Swansea agree fee for Sigurdsson - report
The Iceland midfielder had reportedly attracted interest from Manchester United after a successful loan spell at the Liberty Stadium but could now be set for permanent switch

'I don't want to play in the Championship again' - Yakubu
Nigerian striker insists he has no desire to drop to England's second tier after scoring 17 Premier League goals last season

Adam ready to impress next Liverpool boss
The Scottish midfielder admits he was disappointed to see Kenny Dalglish leave Anfield but is looking forward to the future with the Merseyside club

Kompany aiming for Champions League glory with Manchester City
The Belgium international says the Citizens are committed to winning major trophies in the future and has no intention of missing out on that success

 

[David Luiz]

Chelsea win the battle to sign Hazard from Lille

Belgian superstar has delivered a snub to Premier League champions Manchester City and their rivals Manchester United by opting to join the Stamford Bridge club

May 28, 2012 11:51:00 AM

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By Greg Stobart

Eden Hazard is set to sign for Chelsea after finally making a decision on his future, Goalcom understands.

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The £32 million-rated Lille attacker is understood to have agreed personal terms with the Blues and is likely to sign for the Stamford Bridge club this week.

Manchester United and Manchester City were also given permission to talk to Hazard, but the 21-year-old decided over the weekend to sign for Chelsea, finally bringing the end to the ongoing transfer saga.

“It’s a done deal,” a source told Goalcom. “Hazard has made his choice and he will play for Chelsea next season.”

On Monday morning, the Belgian indicated that an announcement is imminent when he wrote on Twitter: "Good afternoon guys. I made up my mind. see you later. Thanks".

Chelsea are believed to have met the financial demands of Hazard and his agent, and also influenced his decision with the offer of a regular first team starting spot - something that would not have been a guarantee at City.

The Blues stepped up their pursuit of one of Europe’s hottest talents following their triumph in the Champions League final, which guaranteed they will feature in Europe’s elite competition next season.

Hazard admitted after his final game for Lille that Chelsea’s astonishing triumph in Munich had forced him to reconsider his future, having previously been set on joining Roberto Mancini's Premier League champions.

“Chelsea could interest me now,” Hazard said. “They've won the Champions League and will therefore be in it next season. It's really important for me to be playing in that competition.

"Chelsea are a big club with some great players – of course it's a possibility.”

United and City had long been considered to be in a two-horse race for Hazard, but both clubs were believed to be concerned by the financial demands of the player's agent, who is understood to want £5 million for his part in any deal.

Hazard was City’s primary close season target - he attended the Manchester derby in late April as a guest of the club before being shown around houses in the area.

Chelsea's hijacking of the transfer, however, means Mancini has been dealt a chilling snub and Hazard is now set for a move to Chelsea, where Blues owner Roman Abramovich is ready to fund a regeneration of the squad over the summer.

The Ligue 1 player of the season is one of the most highly-rated talents in Europe and has been in stunning form, scoring 20 league goals and providing 22 assists.

 

[David Luiz]

Monday 28th May 2012

Hazard: I want to play as No. 10

Lille's in-demand starlet Eden Hazard has reiterated that he wants to play in a second striker position next season.

By ESPNSTAR staff

The Belgian attacker is one of the hottest properties in European football, and is said to be weighing up offers from both Manchester clubs as well as newly-crowned European champions Chelsea.

Hazard has been Ligue 1 Player of the Year for the last two seasons and his new attacking midfield role has made for even better stats this term for Lille, having scored 20 goals and created a further 15 more in Ligue 1 in the past season.

The player himself has given little indication as to his preferred club of the trio, but stated that he is looking to move to a team that will allow him to play in his favoured playmaker role from at which he shone from.

"I scored 20 league goals [and] also had the most assists in the league, and I never believed I could possibly come up with such a fantastic set of statistics," he said before Belgium's 2-2 friendly draw with Montenegro. "Certainly I could not have made such a decisive contribution had the coach at Lille not changed my position.

"It is all down to that. I have always dreamed of playing the No 10 role, and wearing that number on my back, and you can see what a difference it makes from how many goals I have scored and set up for others. "That will be a consideration when I decide on my club. Where I will play will influence my thinking on who I should join.

Manchester United left back Patrice Evra urged Hazard to join the Red Devils, whose current No 10 Wayne Rooney is also comfortable in a role leading the attack as a main striker. As compared, Chelsea and Manchester City have Juan Mata and David Silva who are playing in a similiar role for their sides respectively.

Evra cheekily suggested that Sir Alex Ferguson's team offer a better chance of silverware than their city rivals despite losing out the Premier League crown to them in May.

"I'm not his father but, if he comes to Manchester, I assure him that he will win titles," Evra told Manchester Evening News. "That's if he joins my Manchester, not the Blue side."

Eden Hazard's agent John Bico has previously stated that the player will announce his decision after Belgium's friendly match against England.

UPDATE: Hazard's latest tweet indicates he has already decided which club to join this summer, "Good afternoon guys. i made up my mind. see you later. thanks." he wrote.
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[David Luiz]

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Man City appoint new financial chief
Manchester City have named Derby chief executive Tom Glick as the club's new chief commercial and operating officer.

United double fanbase over five years​

Manchester United have doubled their global support over the last five years and now have 659 million fans worldwide, the club have announced.

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Hazard tipped to be a success in England
Belgium playmaker Eden Hazard has been backed by his international team-mates to be a major hit in English football.

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Saints bid for Rodriguez accepted
Burnley have accepted a bid in the region of £7million from Southampton for striker Jay Rodriguez, according to various reports.

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Zingarevich finalises Reading takeover
Anton Zingarevich has finally completed his takeover of Barclays Premier League new boys Reading.

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Jenkins: Rodgers meeting just routine
Swansea insist a meeting between manager Brendan Rodgers and chairman Huw Jenkins had already been scheduled well before the Northern Irishman became the bookmakers' favourite for the Liverpool job.

BPL move on the cards for Fabian​

Mexican starlet Marco Fabian revealed that he has been closely tracked by several clubs and hinted at a possible summer move to the Premier League.

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Rodgers frontrunner for Reds job
Brendan Rodgers has emerged as the new bookmakers' favourite to succeed Kenny Dalglish in the Liverpool hot-seat.

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Robson slams Walcott selfishness
Former Arsenal midfielder Stewart Robson is unhappy with Theo Walcott's reluctance at signing a new contract calling him "an athlete who puts on a pair of football boots".

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Diame: I almost moved to Liverpool
Mohamed Diame has admitted he was intending to join Liverpool only for Kenny Dalglish's sacking to see the move collapse.

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Baggies close to securing Hodgson replacement
West Brom are to step up their bid to secure head coach Roy Hodgson's successor after a month of interviewing and sounding out potential candidates, journalists understand.

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Report: Chelsea prepare bid for Hulk
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is looking to secure a replacement for Didier Drogba by launching a £30million bid for Porto midfielder Hulk.

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Liverpool, Juve mark Heysel anniversary
Juventus and Liverpool marked the 27th anniversary of the Heysel Stadium disaster which claimed the lives of 39 supporters prior to the 1985 European Cup final.

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Report: Kagawa set for Man United
Borussia Dortmund star Shinji Kagawa is set to sign for Manchester United, according to reports.

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Mum tells RVP to stick to his guns

Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has been urged by his mother to stay at the north London club.

Swansea keen on Tottenham's Giovani
Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers is looking to bring Tottenham forward Giovani Dos Santos to the Liberty Stadium.

Martinez set for further Reds talks
Liverpool's managerial situation may become clearer as Wigan boss Roberto Martinez is expected to have more talks with Reds owners Fenway Sports Group.

Amalfitano eyes success with Magpies
Newcastle United's first signing of the summer Romain Amalfitano is hoping to maintain his a winning mentality with his new side next season.

Bramble denies sexual assault charges
Sunderland defender Titus Bramble groped one woman's bottom in a club before repeatedly sexually assaulting another in the back of a taxi, a court heard on Monday.

Jenkins: Reds not in for Rodgers
Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins has dismissed reports manager Brendan Rodgers will meet Liverpool's owners to talk about the vacancy at Anfield as "pure speculation".​

 

[David Luiz]

Ben Arfa: France are more than just the '1987 Generation'
The Newcastle ace acknowledges that while he enjoys playing with the likes of Karim Benzema and Samir Nasri, les Bleus' side goes far beyond their individual talents

Hazard is the right man to rejuvenate Chelsea, says Mavuba
The 21-year-old winger was widely expected to move to Manchester, to either City or United, but has instead revealed that he will instead take up residence in west London

Gavilan: Speed was like a father
The Paraguayan became close to the former Wales coach during a spell on Tyneside, and admits that news of his passing hit him hard years after his time in the Premier League ended

Balotelli: I'll buy you dinner if you find another guy like me
The Manchester City striker believes it is virtually impossible for anyone to understand how he feels because so few have been blessed with footballing ability as great as his

Juventus not interested in Liverpool striker Suarez
The Uruguayan forward was rumoured to be a prime target for the Bianconeri but has opened talks with the Anfield club to extend his current contract to 2016

Liverpool lead Reading in race for Juventus star Krasic
The Reds want the winger on loan though the Turin club would prefer to sell, while the Serbian is not keen on a Madejski Stadium switch despite their willingness to buy him

Manchester United prepare bumper contract offer for Kagawa
The Old Trafford club are reportedly close to agreeing a £17.6m deal and will offer the Japanese midfielder a lucrative image rights package to meet his £100,000-a-week wages

Marco Fabian acknowledges Premier League interest
The Chivas de Guadalajara star is currently shining at the Toulon tournament, where he's bagged six goals in the group stage of the U23 competition

Hazard signing proves Chelsea & Abramovich are at Europe's top table to stay
The Blues' big piece of early summer transfer business proves they do not see their Champions League triumph as being the end of an era

Lawrenson: The best Liverpool can hope for next season is sixth
The former Reds defender has bemoaned the way in which the club have gone about finding a new manager and warns that they will not be able to keep up in the Premier League

Manchester United reserve-team role paved way for Scholes return - Joyce
The Red Devils coach believes that the long-serving midfielder's second-string "kickabouts" before Christmas set the ball rolling for his retirement U-turn in January

Amalfitano wants to continue winning mentality with Newcastle
The Magpies' first summer signing joins from Reims in France, who have just secured promotion to Ligue 1, and the 22-year-old midfielder wants to maintain winning ways on Tyneside

Torres commits his future to Chelsea
The Blues forward struggled to find goalscoring form last season, but is expected to lead the line in the future following news of Didier Drogba's impending departure

Shearer backs Carroll to perform with the right service
The former England captain has backed the striker rise to the occasion and perform at the European Championships, having managed him for a short period at Newcastle

 

[David Luiz]

Tuesday 29th May 2012

Zingarevich finalises Reading takeover

Anton Zingarevich has finally completed his takeover of Barclays Premier League new boys Reading.

The mega-rich Russian businessman agreed to buy 51% of the Royals from John Madejski in January through Thames Sport Investment, owned by Zingarevich.

The deal had hoped to have been completed in March but delays meant approval has at last been cleared on Tuesday, exactly six weeks after manager Brian McDermott guided the Berkshire outfit to promotion from the npower Championship.

A statement released by Reading read: "Reading Football Club are pleased to announce that a 51% acquisition by Thames Sports Investment (owned by Anton Zingarevich) has now been completed, complying with all Premier League and Football League requirements.

"Four additional directors have been added to the Reading Football Club board chaired by Sir John Madejski, namely Anton Zingarevich, Christopher Samuelson, Andrew Obolensky and chief executive Nigel Howe. Ian Wood-Smith also remains a director.

"The football club and TSI would like to thank both the Premier League and Football League for their assistance, and we now enter another bright new era for our historic club, back in the Barclays Premier League."
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[David Luiz]

Marin confident of first team place at Chelsea & confirms Tottenham bid
The new German signing believes he can stake a claim for an immediate first-team berth and has revealed that Spurs did make an offer for him before he moved to west London

Torres: I value my place more after being on the outside
The former Atletico Madrid and Liverpool striker is determined to prove his doubters wrong and continue to move up on La Roja's list of top scorers

Chelsea coach Newton still unsure of future
The former Blues midfielder joined when Roberto Di Matteo took over as interim manager, but does not know whether he and the Italian will be kept on next season

Bould: League Cup perfect chance for Arsenal youngsters
New Gunners assistant manager believes the competition gives the club a great platform to give their younger players the opportunity to prove their worth in the first team

Batista: Shanghai Shenhua will do their best to get Drogba
The Chinese outfit's new manager claims that the club is working hard to secure the services of the Ivorian, who is leaving Chelsea following their Champions League triumph

Whelan insists Martinez is committed to Wigan
The Latics chairman has guaranteed the Spaniard funds for transfers over the summer after the 38-year-old opted against taking over the vacant hotseat at Anfield

Aquilani eager for talks with new Liverpool boss
The 27-year-old midfielder looks set to return to Anfield after AC Milan decided against signing the Italy international on a permanent basis at the end of the season

Liverpool hiring Rodgers could kick-start race for Aston Villa job
Norwich City boss Paul Lambert remains the heavy favourite to succeed Alex McLeish, however, Roberto Martinez not getting the Anfield job puts the Wigan Athletic coach in the mix

Arthur Wharton statue to go on display at Fifa headquarters
The contribution of the Football League's first-ever black player will be honoured by Sepp Blatter at a special ceremony to be held in Zurich on June 6

Swindon Town boss Di Canio signs two-year contract extension
The Italian will continue as Robins manager after a successful debut season at the club in which they secured promotion to League One as well as a Wembley appearance

Djourou considering Arsenal exit
Following limited starting opportunities this term, the Swiss defender is becoming frustrated with life in north London and concedes that he may have to move elsewhere

Dempsey tempted by Champions League
The Fulham midfielder reiterated his desire to play in Europe's premier competition at some point in his career but insists he will give his best for any team he plays for

Kuyt rules out return to Feyenoord
The Dutchman cites 'financial problems' as the main stumbling block in negotiations with his former club and claims he has drawn interest from Germany, Spain and Italy

Lampard relishing chance to link up with Hazard at Chelsea
The 33-year-old believes the Blues' new signing will bring some much-needed youth to the squad, and is anticipating a tough test for England against Belgium at Wembley on Saturday

Mancini rules out Manchester City move for Ibrahimovic
The Italian worked with Milan's Swedish striker during a successful spell at Inter but insists his forward line does not need strengthening this summer

Martinez turns down Liverpool over plans for three sporting directors
The Reds' American owners are preparing a major restructure of managerial affairs, leaving Brendan Rodgers the clear favourite to replace Kenny Dalglish at Anfield

Scholes signs one-year deal at Manchester United
Having decided to come out of retirement in January and contributing to the Red Devils' title challenge, the midfielder has now opted to prolong his playing career at Old Trafford

Andy Johnson mulling over a move to the UAE
The Fulham forward's contract at Craven Cottage is due to expire this summer after failing to agree a new deal and his agent has revealed he is contemplating a move abroad

Hulk deal to Chelsea 90 per cent complete - report
Portuguese giants Porto are rumoured to have accepted they cannot demand the €100m release clause in the highly-rated forward's contract, with a €50m deal now agreed

Ajax chasing England Under-21 star & Manchester United target Clyne
The right-back is set to leave Crystal Palace this summer when his contract expires, with the Dutch giants competing with the Red Devils, Newcastle and Everton for his signature

Liverpool supporters could turn on Rodgers if he brings his Swansea tactics to Anfield - Boersma
Former Reds & Swans ace warns that fans may not take kindly to the patient play that has seen the former Chelsea coach win so many plaudits

Eden Hazard & the £90m transfer that makes him Chelsea's highest paid player
The eye-watering sums involved in the Belgian attacker's move to Stamford Bridge after he turned down both Manchester clubs see him on a par with the likes of Terry and Lampard

Manchester United winning popularity contest but not much more after Chelsea secure Hazard
A survey claimed on Tuesday that the Red Devils are the world's best-supported side but it will count for nothing as long as the enforced thriftiness continues at Old Trafford

Schalke reportedly target Tottenham's Rafael van der Vaart
The Bundesliga giants are looking to fine tune their squad and have set their sights on the Dutch attacker, who has refused to commit his future to the Premier League club

Balotelli: I'd kill someone if they racially abused me on the street
The Manchester City forward also claims that he will simply "go home" if subjected to racist behaviour while on the pitch for his country in this summer's Euro 2012

Middlesbrough sign Leadbitter on free transfer from Ipswich
The former Sunderland midfielder's contract with the Tractor Boys was due to expire next month and he has sealed a move North to become the club's first signing of the summer

Arsenal defender Koscielny: Extra work in the gym behind my improvement
The France international struggled at times in his first season at the Emirates, but looked considerably more comfortable this year and thinks that he has finally settled in

Manchester City appoint Glick to key board role
The Premier League holders have confirmed that the current Derby County CEO will assume his new role as chief commercial and operating officer at the Etihad Stadium in August

Survey findings suggest Manchester United are world's most popular club
According to an investigation by market research agency Kantar, the Old Trafford team have attracted 659 million fans globally, making them the most followed side on earth

Arsenal should sell Walcott if he asks for new contract - Stewart Robson
The former Gunners and England midfielder is not a fan of the Southampton youth product, insisting that he is a "liability" defensively and not good enough technically

Leverkusen chief rules out return of Manchester United striker Berbatov
The German side have been linked with a move for the Bulgarian, who looks poised to depart the Red Devils this summer, but have cited the cost as a stumbling block

 

[David Luiz]

Liverpool to appoint Brendan Rodgers as new manager on three-year deal

The Northern Irishman is set to replace Kenny Dalglish at Anfield after the Reds' owners agreed a compensation package with Swansea City

May 30, 2012 7:05:00 PM

By Greg Stobart | Northern Correspondent

Brendan Rodgers is on the verge of becoming the new manager of Liverpool on a three-year deal.

The Swansea boss held talks with the Liverpool owners on Wednesday afternoon and is likely to be installed in the next 24 hours.

Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the Reds’ American owners, will pay around £5 million in compensation to Swansea under the terms of the three-and-a-half year contract the Northern Irishman signed with the Welsh club in February.

Rodgers emerged as the leading candidate to replace Kenny Dalglish after Wigan boss Roberto Martinez ruled himself out of contention on Tuesday, as Goalcom exclusively revealed earlier today.

Rodgers, 39, has agreed to work under FSG’s proposed management structure unlike Martinez, who was put off by the plans to divide the director of football role in to three separate positions.

Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins confirmed in a statement on the club's website on Wednesday evening that the former Watford and Reading boss said he wanted to take the Liverpool job having initially spurned an approach from the Merseyside club two weeks ago.

At that stage, he wanted to avoid appearing disloyal to Swansea while the Reds had a long list of candidates, but it became apparent this week that Rodgers was a genuine front runner to replace Kenny Dalglish, who was sacked on May 16.

Jenkins said: "I was contacted by Liverpool last night and they expressed their wish to speak to Brendan regarding their vacancy.

"I had a discussion with Brendan to talk about their interest and his views on whether he wanted to speak to Liverpool.

"He expressed his wish with me to do that and he has spoken to Liverpool today.

"Following on from discussions with Liverpool's owners, Brendan has informed us that he would like to take up their offer to manage Liverpool.

"At the moment we are currently in talks with the owners to agree compensation. We are trying to finalise that within the next 24 hours.

"Although we are very disappointed to lose such a talented, young British manager, we didn't wish to stand in his way. We shall now refocus and quickly start the process of finding his replacement to continue the great work Brendan has carried out at this football club."

FSG went in search of a young, dynamic manager who is capable of introducing a footballing ethos which runs through all levels at the club.

Principle owner John W Henry remains determined to implement a tiered management structure and Rodgers will work alongside three men taking on the duties performed by former director of football Damien Comolli.

The Reds’ groundbreaking plan is to employ one executive to oversee statistics, another whose role will be to conduct negotiations and a third ‘football man’ with contacts within the game.

Rodgers, Martinez and former Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas were the leading contenders at the start of the process while the likes of Frank De Boer and Jurgen Klopp were quick to dismiss the notion of moving to Anfield.

Rodgers caught the eye last season as he guided Swansea to an 11th place finish in their debut season in the Premier League, earning praise from rival fans and managers for his commitment to possession-based football.

He will be tasked with improving upon Liverpool's disappointing 8th-placed finish under Dalgish this season, with the Merseyside outfit picking up only five league wins after the turn of the year.

 

[David Luiz]

Liverpool & Rodgers in for a tough season - Fowler

The former Anfield striker thinks that the Swansea boss could be in for a challenging first term if his expected appointment is confirmed by the club in the next two days

May 31, 2012 12:40:00 AM

By Nicholas McGee

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Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler believes that next season is set be a difficult one for the club and prospective new manager Brendan Rodgers.

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The Swansea City boss is expected to accept a three-year-deal at Anfield after the Swans gave the Scot permission to speak to the Reds hierachy about taking over from club legend Kenny Dalglish, who was dismissed from his post two weeks ago.

Fowler - who also had a spell with Swansea's Welsh rivals Cardiff City - thinks that although Rodgers deserves huge praise for the job he has done at the Liberty Stadium, the former Watford boss may find it difficult to bridge the gap between Liverpool and the past season's top four.

He told Paddypower.com:"For what Brendan Rodgers has achieved at Swansea, he deserves huge respect.

"He's worked under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea so he knows the score and he's worked with top players. It'd be a massive step up for Rodgers to manage Liverpool, if he gets the job, as expected now.

"The new manager will need to bring in new players again to take Liverpool from a top-eight club to a top-four club.

"That’s going to be really difficult. It’s a massive challenge because the top four are going to bring in new players too and that gulf increases again. I have to say it, right now the 2012-13 season looks like it’s going to be another difficult one for Liverpool fans."

 

[David Luiz]

Everton reveal new away kit for 2012-13 season

The Toffees have officially released the first pictures of their new second strip for the upcoming Premier League campaign, which is noticeably different to previous efforts

May 30, 2012 10:45:00 PM

By Nicholas McGee

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Everton have officially revealed their new black away kit for the 2012-13 Premier Leaguecampaign.

The Blues will launch the strip on June 23 at the club's official 'Everton Two' store in Liverpool city centre, but the first official pictures of the kit - designed by sportswear giant Nike - were released today.

A select audience of fans who attended every one of Everton's home and away games were able to get a first hand look at the new shirt, which features striking yellow detail on the club crest and sponsor patches.

Back in Black | Midfielder Darron Gibson modelling the latest shirt

The move to an all black kit is a distinct change in direction from previous Blues' away strips, which have been both bright pink and gold in recent seasons.

An official statement read: "The shirt features a classic collar and is made from Nike Dri-Fit fabric which is lightweight and manages perspiration, keeping players dry and comfortable for 90 minutes and beyond.

"The shirt is also part of Nike’s Considered Design programme aimed at reducing environmental impact, and consists of 100% recycled material."​

 

[David Luiz]

Premier League clubs reach record revenue levels

Teams from England's top division earned a new high of £2.28 billion in the 2010-11 season, but operating profits were down and pre-tax losses were a staggering £380 million

May 31, 2012 12:01:00 AM

By Joe Doyle

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Premier League clubs raked in a record combined revenue of £2.28 billion in the 2010-11 season, according to Deloitte's Annual Review of Football Finance.

In total, the collective revenues of the top 92 clubs in English football rose by nine per cent to £2.9bn. Despite the increase, operating profits were reduced by 19% to £68m, and the combined pre-tax losses were a staggering £380m.

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Dan Jones, partner in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte, stated: "Top clubs in English football have continued to show impressive revenue growth despite a difficult economic climate.

"Premier League club's revenues increased by 12% in 2010-11, driven by broadcast revenue increasing by 13% to £1.18bn in the first year of a new three year broadcast cycle.

"This uplift was primarily due to an increase in overseas broadcast deal values, demonstrating once again the Premier League's unrivalled global popularity.

"Commercial revenue grew by 18%, although this was largely attributable to clubs with a more global profile."

Another revealing statistic from the review was that more than 80% of Premier League clubs' revenue was spent on wages, which increased by £200m (14%) to almost £1.6bn, resulting in a record ratio of wages/revenue in the Premier League of 70%.

"Despite the increase in revenue, operating profits reduced by 19% to £68m, and combine pre-tax losses were £380m. Gross transfer spending by Premier League clubs increased by £210m (38%) to a record level of £769m," said Adam Bull, consultant in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte.

"The challenge for clubs remains converting impressive revenue growth into sustainable profits. This will become even more important for a number of clubs as the financial results for 2011-12 will, for the first time, count towards their Uefa Financial Fair Play break-even calculation."

In terms of debt owed by the clubs, 62% (£1.5bn) of the mammoth £2.4bn is in the form of non-interest bearing 'soft loans', of which almost 90% relates to three clubs - Chelsea (£819m), Newcastle United (£277m) and Fulham (£200m).

Key findings from the Deloitte Annual Review of Football Finance 2012 are:

• The total European football market grew to a record £15.3bn in 2010-11.
• Premier League clubs generated the highest revenue (£2.3bn) of any European league in 2010-11, followed by Germany and Spain (each £1.6bn), Italy (£1.4bn), and France (£900m).
• The Bundesliga remained Europe's most profitable league with operating profits of £154m, a 24% increase on the previous year and widening the gap on the Premier League, where operating profits decreased by £16m to £68m.
• The top 92 English clubs invested £167m in stadia and facilities in 2010-11 and over £3bn has been invested over the last 20 years. This is likely to increase further in the future given the anticipated investment in training ground facilities resulting from the introduction of the Elite Player Performance Plan.
• Average league capacity utilisation at Premier League clubs was above 90% for the 15th consecutive season, despite total attendances falling by 2% in 2011-12.
• Net debt of Premier League clubs fell by £351m (13%) to £2.4bn, its lowest since 2006. This overall reduction is not representative of the experience of every club, with increases at around half the Premier League clubs.
• The Government's tax take from the top 92 professional football clubs was almost £1.2bn in 2010-11, a £219m (23%) increase, largely due to the increase in VAT (to 20%) and the introduction of the 50% rate for earnings over £150,000.

 

[David Luiz]

Why Chelsea see Hulk as the perfect replacement for Didier Drogba

Manchester City fans teased Hulk with chants of "you're not incredible" when they faced Porto in the Europa League earlier this season. But it appears he will have opportunity to prove himself against the Premier League champions when he completes a move to Chelsea.

Pulses racing: Hulk is set to throw is weight around at Chelsea as a direct replacement for the departing Didier Drogba Photo: AP

By Telegraph Sport
11:50AM BST 30 May 20128

Hulk, real name Givanildo Vieira de Souza, might not have the ability to withstand nuclear explosions or punch his way through brick walls, but he has a lethal left foot which would make even his namesake, ahem, green with envy.

For Brazil against Denmark: May 2012

<iframe width="640" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ikzFxUueukM?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>

Hulk was the inspiration for Brazil as he led them to a 3-1 victory over Denmark, who began the game in disarray but finished it giving Mano Menezes' team all sorts of problems at the back.
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Porto v Braga: November 2011
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftHgbnJ99BA
Another pinpoint display of power and precision via the big-man's left peg.
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Benfica v Porto: March 2 2012

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A rampant start from Porto saw the visitors take the lead after just seven minutes. Pablo Aimar was dispossessed in his own half as the team tried to set up a counter attack after a corner, and Hulk picked up the ball on the right flank. The striker cut inside and fired a powerful left-foot drive past Artur from the edge of the box. Porto went on to win 3-2.
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Porto v Pinhalnovense: Jan 2011
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWfLL3K_qi8&feature=related
Porto registered a 2-0 victory against the third division minnows from Setubal in the quarter-final of the Portuguese Cup. There's no denying the quality of the goal, though, despite the calibre of the opposition.
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Spartak Moscow v Porto: Apr 14 2011

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Porto secured a Europa League semi-final berth with this 5-2 away win in Russia. Hulk opened the scoring for the visitors after 28 mins with a delightful run from inside his own half and a clinical finish from outside the six-yard box.
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Porto v Shakhtar Donetsk: Sep 13 2011

<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/X-puYAfZtgA?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>

Porto had begun their Europa League campaign in Ukraine and had to come from behind in this 2-1 win. Hulk's spectacular 28th-minute goal was the beginning of the fightback.
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Porto v UD Leiria: Oct 25 2010
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=St6_ozlBbv8&feature=related
Some pinpoint passing puts Hulk through and he finishes with a delightful dink to score Porto's first goal in this 5-1 rout of Unaio Leiria.
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Belenenses v Porto: March 28, 2010

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Hulk was the driving force in this 3-0 win in Lisbon. He drops his shoulder, cuts inside and unleashes a thunderbolt from outside the box.