Man Utd's Rooney told 6 weeks out

England's World Cup hopes are on a knife edge after Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was told he has a fractured metatarsal suffered in yesterday's disappointing 3-0 defeat at Chelsea.

Rooney has been told he could be out for six weeks, exactly the amount of time until England's first match against Paraguay on 10 June. He was stretchered off late in Man Utd's defeat at Stamford Bridge.
Rooney left Stamford Bridge on crutches having injured the same foot that he broke at Euro 2004.
Rooney is seen as being key to England's hopes at the World Cup and any concerns over his fitness would add to England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson's injury worries.

Mourinho lifts second title: I almost quit Chelsea

After lifting back-to-back championships, Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho revealed after yesterday's 3-0 win over Manchester United that he seriously considered quitting this season.
But he assured Blues fans that he is over that emotion and promised to stay with the champions.
After a thumping win over closest rivals Manchester United, the Blues boss wants to win a Premiership hat-trick.
Mourinho said: "A couple of times during the season, I thought about closing the door and saying goodbye.

"But don't interpret this as a doubt for next season.
"I am happy to stay because this is a special club with special people.
"Unless the club sacks me, I will be manager here next season. I am not worried about that. I want to stay. I am ready to stay."
But Mourinho fears his achievements will always be tarnished because of the billions of pounds at his disposal from owner Roman Abramovich.
Mourinho said: "For a manager it is the worst club you can work at.
"For example I won nine consecutive matches this season and I was never manager of the month. Not one single time.
"I have been here for two years, we are champions and I have won manager of the months two times in two years. That's just a simple example.
"You do what you can but you are never recognised.
"Chelsea are always treated in a negative way."
Mourinho tied a Portugal scarf around his neck before launching into his after-match celebrations.
Skipper John Terry lifted the trophy and players received their medals but Mourinho gave his medal away.
He threw it into the Matthew Harding Lower Stand along with his jacket and, when he was given a second medal, he threw that one in as well.
Mourinho said: "I have a Premiership medal from last season and it's the same medal. I only need one. I can't keep everything I have.
"The crowd behind that goal are our best supporters. They always support us the most during the game.
"We have an incredible record at home, with just a single draw and they have played a big part in that.
"The medal was for everybody but the person who has the medal is lucky. He has a great souvenir unless he puts it on eBay and makes a fortune."

Mourinho lifts second title: I almost quit Chelsea

After lifting back-to-back championships, Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho revealed after yesterday's 3-0 win over Manchester United that he seriously considered quitting this season.
But he assured Blues fans that he is over that emotion and promised to stay with the champions.
After a thumping win over closest rivals Manchester United, the Blues boss wants to win a Premiership hat-trick.
Mourinho said: "A couple of times during the season, I thought about closing the door and saying goodbye.

"But don't interpret this as a doubt for next season.
"I am happy to stay because this is a special club with special people.
"Unless the club sacks me, I will be manager here next season. I am not worried about that. I want to stay. I am ready to stay."
But Mourinho fears his achievements will always be tarnished because of the billions of pounds at his disposal from owner Roman Abramovich.
Mourinho said: "For a manager it is the worst club you can work at.
"For example I won nine consecutive matches this season and I was never manager of the month. Not one single time.
"I have been here for two years, we are champions and I have won manager of the months two times in two years. That's just a simple example.
"You do what you can but you are never recognised.
"Chelsea are always treated in a negative way."
Mourinho tied a Portugal scarf around his neck before launching into his after-match celebrations.
Skipper John Terry lifted the trophy and players received their medals but Mourinho gave his medal away.
He threw it into the Matthew Harding Lower Stand along with his jacket and, when he was given a second medal, he threw that one in as well.
Mourinho said: "I have a Premiership medal from last season and it's the same medal. I only need one. I can't keep everything I have.
"The crowd behind that goal are our best supporters. They always support us the most during the game.
"We have an incredible record at home, with just a single draw and they have played a big part in that.
"The medal was for everybody but the person who has the medal is lucky. He has a great souvenir unless he puts it on eBay and makes a fortune."

Newcastle's Owen not "100% happy" with comeback

Newcastle United striker Michael Owen's return to action yesterday left him feeling "not 100% happy".

Toon caretaker boss Glenn Roeder revealed Owen's fears after he returned as a substitute at Birmingham.
After Owen limped off at the final whistle, Roeder said: "He had the best part of half an hour and when he came in afterwards he was a little bit concerned. He wasn't quite 100% happy with it.
"There was no sharp pain or anything - he described it as dull. He was honest with the medical team in saying he was not 100%.
"The medical department will decide over the weekend what the next step will be. But I have to emphasise Michael is not that concerned."

Portsmouth chairman: We want Redknapp to stay

Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric has assured fans that manager Harry Redknapp is staying after yesterday's win at Wigan Athletic assured their Premiership status for next season.
The three points, combined with Birmingham's goalless draw at home to Newcastle, means Portsmouth stay in the top flight, with the Blues and West Brom condemned to the Coca-Cola Championship.

Redknapp is almost certain to be given the freedom of the city following this latest heroic effort which he believes eclipses that of two years ago when Portsmouth took 21 points from their final 10 games to stay up.
On this occasion, the south coast club have grabbed 20 from their last nine matches to overhaul the Blues and the Baggies.
But a question mark surrounds Redknapp's future as he only signed a short-term contract when he rejoined Portsmouth earlier this season.
Mandaric, though, is ready to sit down with Redknapp to keep him at Fratton Park, confirming: "This is big, this is huge.
"It's easy to say now we expected it, but we have worked hard for this.
"We told the supporters all along not to panic, that we would do it because we had the quality to stay up.
"In my seven years at Portsmouth football club this has to be the most emotional moment in terms of achieving something for a lot of reasons.
"One of those was in brining Harry back. A lot of people questioned that at the time, and it was a bold decision.
"But I knew that Harry was the only man to do what he has done here, and I am so delighted and happy for him.
"We didn't want to get involved in speaking about a new contract because we just wanted to focus on staying up and Harry understood that.
"But as far as I'm concerned, I think its now going to be a formality."

Curbishley: Time right to end Charlton era

Charlton boss Alan Curbishley said he did not believe he was in the running for the England job as his last game at The Valley ended in a 2-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers.
Curbishley has been linked with the vacant position of England coach, and held preliminary talks with Football Association chief Brian Barwick in March.

The 48 year old told Sky Sports: "It's nothing to do with any outside influences whatsoever - I don't think I was ever in the running (for the job)."
Curbishley continued: "This decision is about me and Charlton.
"There are mixed emotions - I would have liked to have done well today.
"But it wasn't to be today - it was a very subdued performance and I thought it was going to be once the players and the fans knew (I was leaving).
"I've had a fantastic 15 years at the club but I felt the time was right for change for me and the club.
"I wasn't going to sign a contract extension and Richard wasn't happy because he wants people committed to the club and he felt one year wasn't commitment.
"We had a meeting yesterday which started lunchtime and by 5pm the decision was made. Rich and I are very happy with it and I leave on very good terms."

Guti: Players trying to avoid Real Madrid shakeup

Guti admits Real Madrid's boardroom problems have affected the players.

Ahead of today's match against Osasuna, Guti said: "There is not a lot we can say about these sorts of matters and we are focusing all our attention on trying to finish second.
"Our obligations to the club are on the field. It's more a matter for the club than the players and we must stay on the margins."
He admits that with Osasuna hunting a historic place in the Champions League that the atmosphere at Pamplona promises to be a hostile one.
Guti said: "I am only worried about the football, nothing else.
"It will be an atmosphere like any other. When you are Real Madrid the atmosphere is always like this away from home."

Ronaldinho fires Barcelona closer to title

Ronaldinho struck to move Barcelona within back-to-back championships against Cadiz last night.

The Brazilian scored the only goal of the game after just eight minutes, sweeping home a cross from Julio Belletti.
Barca could have won by a more comfortable margin but Samuel Eto'o missed with a second-half penalty kick.
Cadiz, hoping to catch Barcelona on a European hangover, suffered a blow early on in the game with Ronaldinho putting the Catalan side ahead.
Julio Belletti charged down the right wing and hit a low cross which his countryman fired into the roof of the net from 12 yards.
Late on though Roberto Suarez could have grabbed a point for Cadiz but his header was clawed away by Victor Valdes.

Torres: No Europe means failure for Atletico Madrid

Atletico Madrid captain Fernando Torres admits it would be a huge letdown if they fail to secure European football for next season.
"We would have to consider it a failure if we didn't get into Europe, considering the squad we have, our history and our expectations," said Torres.
"We haven't been able to live with the expectations, and our own, because we would like to have been in the top four."

Villarreal's Riquelme: I must put penalty miss behind me

Villarreal midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme says he must put last week's penalty miss against Arsenal out of his mind.
With an impressive debut in Europe's top competition still vivid in everyone's memory however, the club need to turn their attentions to the Primera Liga again and the trip to face Getafe - direct rivals for the UEFA Cup places.

Villarreal are 10th in the table, a point behind ninth-placed Getafe and four adrift of the UEFA Cup slots.
"I can't keep going back over the penalty," said Riquelme.
"I am the person responsible for taking them and I will continue to take them in the future. Sometimes you score and others you don't, that's the way it is.
"I do think if I had scored though we would have gone on to make the final."
Villarreal have paid a heavy price in the league while playing in Europe, and have only won once in eight games since knocking Rangers out of the Champions League at the beginning of March.
"My only objective from here on until the end of the season is to help the team get back into Europe again," the Argentina international added.
"But it is going to be tough because there are teams above us and we are reliant on them dropping points. But while there is still a chance we will carry on fighting."

Craioveanu slams Getafe president Torres over Real Madrid rumours

Getafe veteran Gica Craioveanu has hit out at president Angel Torres after announcing his retirement.

Craioveanu claimed Torres had not been honest with him by going back on some promises, and suggested Torres was about to abandon the club to stand in the elections for Real Madrid president.
Torres responded sharply saying the Romanian was a selfish, and denied that he was on his way out.
Craioveanu said: "Everyone knows the both of us and we'll see what the fans think during Sunday's game against Villarreal."
Getafe boss Bernd Schuster said: "It comes as no surprise this bust up, but it comes at a very bad time because we should all be focusing on Sunday's game."
Whether Craioveanu gets a run out against one of his former clubs remains to be seen, though Schuster said he was planning to allow the veteran a few minutes if the game allowed it.

AC Milan players determined to push Juventus to wire

AC Milan players won't let last week's Champions League disappointment in Barcelona shake their focus on hauling in Juventus in their Scudetto race.

"We must now concentrate on the domestic league," said AC Milan's top scorer Andriy Shevchenko.
"We will have to clinch nine points in the last three league games and then we will see what happens."
Milan have managed to reduce their deficit with Serie A leaders Juventus to three points and with three games remaining, the Rossoneri are well aware that the Scudetto's destination is yet to be decided.
"We will continue to try," said Milan defender Alessandro Nesta.
"If Juve make another mistake, it's going to be a very exciting end to the campaign."
While rivals Juve travel to Siena on Sunday looking to return to winning ways having drawn their last five league games, Milan play hosts to a reinvigorated Livorno.

Spalletti: Roma won't give up Champions League target

Roma coach Luciano Spalletti has told his players not to give up on their chances of beating Fiorentina for fourth place and the final Champions League spot.
"We must not give up," he said ahead of today match against Chievo Verona.
"We have to reduce the deficit on the Viola starting this weekend."

Di Canio battling for new Lazio contract

Lazio captain Paolo Di Canio knows needs to prove himself in the final games of this season if he wants a new contract.

The controversial striker is approaching the end of his career at the age of 37 and reports in Italy are linking him with a move to Australia.
Di Canio has often revealed his wish to end his career at Lazio but the club have yet to offer him a contract extension.
The former West Ham forward has netted five goals in 24 league appearances for Lazio this season but it may not be enough to see him remain another year at the Stadio Olimpico.
Di Canio, who returns to the starting line-up this weekend, warmed up for Sunday's home clash against an already-relegated Lecce by snaring five goals during a friendly game on Thursday.

Palermo aiming to wreck Fiorentina's Euro hopes

Palermo intend to wreck Fiorentina's Champions League hopes today, says defender Christian Zaccardo.

"Our aim of qualifying for the UEFA Cup is gone," said Zaccardo.
However, Zaccardo has warned Sunday's opponents not to expect any favours.
"Fiorentina are very close to qualifying for the Champions League," added Zaccardo.
"But we have no intention of giving away any points to anyone.
"But want to honour this competition and I'm sure we will do our best in the last three games."

Rossi defends Treviso record

Ezio Rossi has defended former club Treviso over their relegation campaign this season.

"We cannot forget that this team was put together in one week," said coach Rossi in reference to the fact that the team had not been budgeting on top-flight football for most of last summer.
"The team had to pay until the end of January for their unexpected promotion to the top flight."
The Veneto-based side, who have the worst attacking line in the competition with just 20 goals scored, will be looking to give the home fans something to celebrate today against Ascoli in what has otherwise been a dismal campaign.

Villa boss O'Leary: Everyone up for sale

Aston Villa boss David O'Leary says EVERYONE is up for sale in his squad.
He said: "I've got to get offers in for people.

"I've just got to wait to find out what people are prepared to pay before I can raise any money.
"Hopefully we can buy James Milner. Anything after that is going to be about wheeling and dealing.
"Everything has to be considered. That's the way we have got to go. I can't do anything until I get any money into the club.
"But I can't look at three players if I've only got £1million to play with. I've got to cut my cloth accordingly. And if I was, say, going to get a sizeable bid for someone like Milan, then I could look at that.
"His value might well improve this summer. I think the Czechs will do well and we could profit from it."

Man City boss wants to replace Barton with Gravesen

Manchester City boss Stuart Pearce is ready to sell Joey Barton and replace him with Real Madrid midfielder Thomas Gravesen.

Pearce has grown sick of contract rebel Barton's refusal to sign a new deal, says The Sun.
He wanted it done by the end of this month but there is still no sign of midfielder Barton committing himself to another four years at the club.
Pearce does not want the issue stretching through the summer as he bids to rebuild his team.
Barton would command a fee of around £7million.
It is money Pearce needs as he aims to find four new players for next season and Real Madrid hardman Gravesen is the man he wants to operate in the centre of his midfield.

De Zeeuw fears more will follow Bullard out of Wigan

Wigan Athletic captain Arjan de Zeeuw fears more of the club's best players will follow Jimmy Bullard out of JJB stadium at the end of this season.
Top of De Zeeuw's list of potential departures is Pascal Chimbonda, who on Sunday was named in the Professional Footballers' Association Team of the Year.


The French right-back, who joined Wigan last summer for what has since proven a bargain £500,000 from Bastia, has been linked with other clubs in recent weeks due to his stunning form.

"He has been our best player by far this season," remarked De Zeeuw. "He has been very consistent, always positive and he always has a smile on his face. He's had his time at Wigan to put him in the spotlight.

"It would be great if we could keep him, but when big clubs come in, it's hard to keep a player like that."

Chimbonda is not the only player De Zeeuw feels manager Paul Jewell could struggle to hold onto over the closed season.

"It's going to be hard work for the manager this summer because there will be one or two players who might go because they have had exceptional seasons," added De Zeeuw.

"Pascal is a rumour that's been going around for a while, while Jimmy Bullard has had a fantastic season, as has Lee McCulloch and Gary Teale.

"There are always going to be rumours because we as a team have performed well this season.

"These are people who have proved themselves in the Premiership, so there are going to be clubs interested in them."

Owen assures Newcastle: I'm staying

Michael Owen has assured fans he want to stay at Newcastle United.

He insists he wants to repay his £16million price tag by helping lead the Toon to a top-six finish - but will stay on Tyneside even if the club miss out on a UEFA Cup place.
Owen said: "I joined Newcastle without the club being in Europe.
"I am committed to the cause but it is hard to show that commitment when you're not playing.
"So much is written and said about you and you have to just bite your lip.
"I am looking forward to starting next season fit and I've said a million times it will be with Newcastle.
"I have had a great first season, apart from getting injured. I love living here."
Owen added: "I'm very keen to get back into the thick of the action.
"I have hated every minute of being injured. I just wanted to be out on the pitch, doing my bit.
"And I don't think I have anything to prove between now and the start of the World Cup.
"It's a long time away - six weeks and I have no doubt I will be fit."

FA back in talks with Brit pack after Scolari rejection

The FA are back in talks with their three British candidates for the England job - Sam Allardyce, Steve McClaren and Martin O'Neill - after Phil Scolari's decision to reject their offer yesterday.
The Sun says the trio were all contacted by the FA hours before the Brazilian sensationally withdrew from the race.

The appointment of Sven Goran Eriksson's successor went from a circus to a total farce as Scolari made his shock announcement at a hurriedly called Press conference in Germany. The Portugal coach said: "It's time to stop this clowning around. I've had enough of the circus.
"I will not, and I repeat, I will NOT be the England coach. I was offered the job but my decision is to stay with Portugal.
"England wanted an answer now and I could not give one so I will continue with Portugal.
"I cannot be and I will not be the England coach now or after the World Cup."
The FA learned the bad news from Scolari a couple of hours before his announcement.
Chief executive Brian Barwick contacted all the other contenders to tell them they were back in the reckoning.

Agent: Fowler priority is Liverpool

The agent of striker Robbie Fowler says Liverpool is his No1 priority.
The 31-year-old is still waiting to hear from boss Rafael Benitez on whether he will be offered an extended deal at Anfield.

But his representative George Scott told BBC Sport: "Robbie wants to stay and I've got a good feeling about it.
"He loves the club and with a really good pre-season under his belt Robbie is hoping to be even sharper for next season.
"It's a case of wait and see but I hoping something can be sorted out and I know Robbie is very keen to stay at Anfield.
"He is very happy being back 'home', he's scoring goals and training hard and I'm sure it's helping him playing again at his boyhood club."
Meanwhile, Bolton are among a group of top Premiership clubs monitoring Fowler's situation if Benitez decides to let him go.
And Scott admitted: "We know there is interest from elsewhere and I think any team in the Premiership would be happy to have him.
"He's only 31 and when you think of what he can do at this level I'd expect someone to come in.
"But Robbie's priority is to get a new deal with Liverpool and hopefully the club may feel it's a case of 'we know what we've got in him'.
"You never know sometimes how new players will settle in - but with Robbie they've got someone who's eager to play for them.
"He may not have be happy to sit on the bench elsewhere but at Liverpool, he would be still be glad to come on and do a job - that's how much it means to him being there."
Scott revealed that the Liverpool supporters' reaction to Fowler's return to Anfield was the inspiration behind his excellent goalscoring form.
Prior to Wednesday's 2-1 victory at West Ham, he had netted four goals in his previous five games.
"You only had to see the welcome he received when he returned to the club in January and I know that has really spurred Robbie on.
"I'm sure the fans would love to see him stay for a while longer.
"He was out injured for a long time while at Manchester City but he's getting back to full fitness and he feels that there is a lot more to come."

Scolari rules out England over media pressure

Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari appears to have ruled himself out of the running for the England job.
Scolari said: "The English FA is going to choose a name. My name isn't one of them because I'm closing this matter."
The Brazilian, the coach of Portugal, said he had been shocked by intrusion into his life by the English media.


"There are 20 reporters outside my house now," said Scolari, who had been strongly tipped in this week's media to become Sven-Goran Eriksson's successor.
"If that is part of another culture, it is not part of my culture. I am not the coach, and will not be (England's) coach.
"I don't want this situation involving England because in two days during which I was not coach, I never agreed to anything, my life was invaded. My privacy was totally under siege."
Scolari added that the press had made "absurd comparisons" of him and his wife with Eriksson and the Swede's partner, and how they dressed, adding: "That's not part of my life and its never going to be."
He said he was "very pleased" the FA had considered him, but added: "Definitely at this time I want to draw a line under this matter."
The 57-year-old's contract with Portugal expires on 31 July and he has a gentleman's agreement not to commit himself to another job until his current deal runs out.
The Football Association has reacted by saying it would "reflect" on Scolari's statement before making any further comment.
But it revealed that the Brazilian had contacted the FA ahead of his announcement to tell the organising body he was pulling out.
"Luiz Felipe Scolari this afternoon made the FA aware of his intention to release a statement regarding the England head coach position," said a statement on the FA website.
"It is no secret that Mr Scolari is one of the candidates that the FA has spoken to as part of the recruitment process.
"We will now reflect on his announcement before making any further comment as we move forward with the process."

Sunderland confirm Quinn takeover talks

Sunderland have confirmed they're in takeover talks with Niall Quinn's consortium.
The Black Cats' chairman Bob Murray said at the end of March he would consider selling the club.
And a statement on the club's website said: "The Board of Sunderland Limited confirms that it is in discussions with a consortium led by Niall Quinn.
"It may or may not lead to an offer for the company being made."

Blackburn boss Hughes refuses to confirm Bellamy escape clause

Blackburn boss Mark Hughes is refusing to acknowledge whether striker Craig Bellamy has a £6million escape clause in his contract.

Bellamy has hit the goals trail for Rovers this season, scoring 17 in 30 appearances.

Such stunning form, and if the clause does exist, could make for an awkward summer for Hughes.

When asked, Hughes replied: "Everybody seems to want to discuss my players and their situations, but to be perfectly honest, I don't particularly want to go there.

"There are a lot of very good players at very good clubs elsewhere, but they don't seem to get the coverage of their situation as much as the likes of Craig, so why add to it.

"Craig signed a four-year deal, and that's the situation. We fully expect him to stay here for the four years."

Wigan boss Jewell admits Fulham deal for Bullard

Wigan boss Paul Jewell says Jimmy Bullard has 'agreed terms' with Fulham - but how the £2.5million fee will be paid is halting the deal.
"His agent has alerted clubs Jimmy has a clause in his contract that allows him to leave for a certain price," said Jewell.
"We have to - by law - tell Jimmy if a club comes in for him, and he wanted to speak to Fulham and I think he has agreed terms.

"But the stumbling block - and it might be quite a big one - is that the clubs have not agreed on how the money is to be paid.
"So he's still a Wigan player, but if Fulham agree to the way we want the money to be paid then he has played his last game for us - if they don't, then he will be back."
Jewell added: "I know people will ask, 'Why is there a clause in the contract?'
"When we negotiated a new one with him last year, his agent said, 'Unless you put this clause in then he won't sign.'
"Our hands were tied on that one. We could have dug our heels in and made him see out his old contract, but then he would have been a Bosman this summer and walked away for nothing.
"Now it looks like he's going, and I'm sorry to see him go. He is a lovely lad with an infectious character.
"He is a brilliant trainer, and although he can be a pain sometimes, it's in a nice way because he just wants to play football.
"I know he holds Wigan dear to his heart - as have all the lads that have left here - but I think the attraction is London.
"I don't think Jimmy is 100% convinced Fulham is the right club, but the financial package will be attractive to him.
"I don't blame Jimmy for wanting to look after his family because you are only one tackle away from your career being over."

Liverpool approach Juventus for Vieira

Liverpool are being linked with Juventus midfielder Patrick Vieira.

Vieira's blow-up with Juve teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic on the training ground yesterday and the poor press he's received in Italy has led to speculation that he is angling for a return to the Premiership.
Liverpool have made enquiries about the Frenchman's situation this week and Juve director general Luciano Moggi hasn't ruled out selling the midfielder.
It's also emerged that during the talks Moggi again asked Liverpool about Steven Gerrard, who only last night reaffirmed his commitment to Anfield.

Compo pay-out could save O'Leary from Villa sack

The compensation owed if David O'Leary is sacked has forced Aston Villa chairman Doug Ellis to think twice.

The Evening Mail says Ellis is making cuts throughout the club having budgeted for 10th place this season and a pay-out to O'Leary will not be made lightly.
He knows it will take £1.7million to sack O'Leary, which equates to a year's salary, and then he would have to make a decision over the futures of assistant manager Roy Aitken and fitness coach Steve MacGregor.
A further £500,000 is written into O'Leary's contract in bonus payments but they are minimal after a disastrous season which sees Villa on fewer points after 36 games than at any time since Jo Venglos' one season in charge in 1991.

Scolari: England have offered me 7-year deal

Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has a seven-year contract in front of him from the English FA.

The Times says at a dinner with Portuguese football federation officials in a private mezzanine area of the plush Hotel Aviz restaurant just off the Praça Marqués de Pombal in Lisbon, where the Portugal manager had been making a recording for broadcast on the TFS radio station tomorrow, Scolari was asked about the atmosphere at his talks with "the English".
"He laid out contracts for five . . . and seven years on the table," Scolari said, raising his hands in the air. "The official said, 'We should speak English'. I said, 'Speak what you want." Laughter broke out among officials who seemed to be resigned to Scolari's departure. "I didn't speak Arabian in Arabia, but I am learning English," Scolari added.
One of those present at the dinner said: "They [the federation officials] are really upset about all the publicity. The federation knows he's on his way. They just don't want the Portuguese people to know. They don't want it to be a big issue before the World Cup. But all the money is on him going."

Charlton eyeing West Brom fullback Robinson

Charlton Athletic boss Alan Curbishley is interested in West Brom defender Paul Robinson.
Robinson has been tipped for England by Baggies boss Bryan Robson and the Mirror says the Addicks will bid for the left-back at the end of this season.

Portsmouth boss Redknapp: I want to stay

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp has declared he wants to stay on next season.
An amazing run has left Pompey clear of the relegation zone and with their fate in their own hands with two games remaining.
Redknapp, who rejoined the club in December with a deal only until the end of this season, said: "I'd love to stay. The way things have gone the last few weeks has been fantastic. But I haven't discussed it with anyone."

Casillas admits Real Madrid in chaos

Goalkeeper Iker Casillas admits Real Madrid are in chaos after the resignation of president Fernando Martin this week.

"It is clear that what we are experiencing something we cannot understand," said Casillas. "There are many changes, many comings and goings.

"I always have said that if improvement is needed then change is good, but this much change is not good."

He added: "It isn't logical that there's been three presidents in two months. But the players must think only about the next game against Osasuna and not what's going on in the boardroom."

Atletico Madrid stun Europe with £15M Aguero swoop

Atletico Madrid have pulled off a stunning transfer coup in the signing of Independiente striker Sergio Aguero.

The 17 year-old Argentine superkid is set to move to Madrid after Atletico and Independiente agreed a £15 million deal yesterday. Only the method of payment needs to be settled.
The man behind the whirlwind deal, which has left Europe's biggest clubs in it's wake, is Atletico director Miguel Angel Gil Marín, who has been in Argentina this week for negotiations.
Aguero has been tabled an eight-year contract and Madrid radio reports last night stated the deal is all but done.

New Real Madrid president continues Ancelotti pursuit

New Real Madrid president Luis Gomez Montejano will maintain the push of his predecessors to secure AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti for next season.

Montejano will spend the weekend in talks with Ancelotti's representatives and AS says the Italian has already signed a pre-contract agreement - as far back as February - for two years with an option of a third.
Milan will refuse to make public Ancelotti's departure while the title race is still open, which may mean Montejano being forced to wait until the end of the season to announce the Italian's appointment.
Ancelotti signed a new deal through to 2008 earlier this year at Milan, but it's understood the agreement was simply a public ploy to stop speculation wrecking their Champions League and Serie A campaigns.

Real Sociedad's Gonzalez: My future is with Liverpool

Real Sociedad winger Mark Gonzalez insists he sees his future at Liverpool.

The Chile international has been starring on-loan at Real since January and is wanted by the San Sebastian club, along with Deportivo La Coruna, Atletico Madrid and Real Zaragoza for next season.
But Gonzalez said: "For now, no offers have arrived to me or to my representative. Everything that has appeared lately in newspapers are only rumors.
"I want to play for Liverpool. I feel the affection of the fans here, but I do not want to confuse them."

Martin: Figo recommended Man Utd's Ronaldo to Real Madrid

Former Real Madrid president Fernando Martin has confirmed he's discussed the signing of Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo.
Martin, who resigned the presidency this week, confirmed he had been urged to move for Ronaldo by Inter Milan ace Luis Figo.
"Yes, it's true," said Martin. "But Real Madrid must sign players which the technical staff needs."

Arezzo chief reveals AC Milan, Juventus in Pasqual contact

Arezzo director general Ermanno Pieroni insists they are free to negotiate with clubs other than Fiorentina for their half of Manuel Pasqual's registration.

Fiorentina have threatened legal action over Arezzo's decision, but Pieroni said: "I was not present at the time of the negotiations. I was not with Arezzo at that time, but I am sure of what my president has told me - that is that this is a free co-ownership.
"Moreover, it is normal that this player after a year is worth more."
On Juventus' interest Pieroni added: "Juventus have asked us about the player, but nothing has been offered to us in writing.
"For Pasqual there are also other teams, such as AC Milan."

Roma contract offer for Strasborg kid Faty

Roma have tabled a contract offer to Strasborg midfielder Ricardo Faty.
The 19 year-old's deal with Strasborg expires in June and Roma have made his representatives a four-year contract offer.
Faty has played little this season, but caught the eye of Roma chiefs with his impressive performance in their UEFA Cup tie this season.

Tottenham linked with Udinese keeper De Sanctis

Tottenham are being linked with Udinese goalkeeper Morgan De Sanctis.
Spurs are in the market for a backup keeper to No1 Paul Robinson next season and have turned to De Sanctis after failing to agree terms with Sunderland youngster Ben Alnwick.

Agent reveals Lazio interest for Livorno's Cesar Prates

Lazio are chasing Livorno defender Cesar Prates.

The agent of the Brazilian, Eugenio Ascari, said: "Walter Sabbatini, Lazio's transfer advisor, knows him very well and is considering my client very carefully.
"(Lazio coach) Delio Rossi was very impressed by the player during the match some weeks ago at the Olimpico.
"The only worry I have is that Lazio may decide against him because of his age (31). But if they showed serious interest, Cesar Prates would jump at the chance to wear the Lazio shirt."

Eto'o: I don't give a s*** about Arsenal's Henry

Barcelona ace Samuel Eto'o has scoffed at the prospect of facing Arsenal star Thierry Henry in the Champions League final.
When asked about going head-to-head with Henry in the Stade de France on May 17, he said: "Why should I care if he's in the final?

"I couldn't care less. In fact, I couldn't give a s**t."
Eto'o also claimed Arsene Wenger's team were lucky to be in the Paris final.
He reckons it should have been an all-Spanish tie with Ronaldinho and Co taking on Villarreal.
Eto'o - a Gunners transfer target when at Mallorca - says the North London side only held on by the skin of their teeth. He claimed: "I think that Villarreal just lacked luck against Arsenal.
"Football can be so unfair and on Tuesday it was not fair on Villarreal. With any luck at all they would have gone through and Arsenal would have gone out.
"Arsenal played their game and I suppose they merit being in Paris simply for the fact that they rode their luck.
"I don't know if both teams are as attacking as one another.
"All I know is that Barcelona is the team which has scored the most goals in the Champions League and Arsenal is the side which has conceded the fewest.
"So perhaps it will be a beautiful game but it will be a hard one. We need to look for ways to break them down and score.
"For us it is everything to be in the Champions League final, to the extent that I'd say any footballer in the world would pay to be there.
"Now that we have qualified we really have to go for it and try and bring the Cup back to the Camp Nou."

Chelsea boss Mourinho no Scolari fan

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho admits he's no fan of prospective England boss Phil Scolari.

The two butted heads while Mourinho was in charge of Porto and he told The Sun: "I haven't spoken to him and he has the right to continue not talking to me.
"He doesn't have to and I wouldn't like him to. I didn't bother him a lot. But I continue to think the same things.
"He didn't watch the Porto players. If he thinks what he does is enough and is successful that way . . . everyone has their own way of working.
"If I were coach of Portugal I would pick up the phone and call coaches of clubs for permission to go and watch them train during the week. I'm sure they would agree.
"Here, I send an assistant to watch the English national team.
"If I were in Scolari's place I would want to go to Milan to watch Figo or go wherever, so that my work could become multi-faceted so that I can have something to add. "

Scolari demands £5M-a-year to boss England

Phil Scolari could price himself out of a deal with England.
The Sun says FA chiefs have offered 'Big Phil' £2.5m plus bonuses - and know they are still a long way from agreeing a deal with the Brazilian demanding double their offer.

Scolari claims he turned down approaches from English clubs two years ago because they did not offer him enough money or respect.
Instead, he renewed his contract with the Portuguese national team, even though he would have preferred to go back to the day-to-day work of club coaching.
Scolari, 57, said: "Clubs showed an interest after Portugal won the semi-finals of Euro 2004.
"Just because I reached the final of the European championships! That annoyed me. Had they waited to see whether I was really any good?
"It's true that I would have preferred to have gone to a club.
"I received offers from Portugal, England, Spain and Italy. A lot of them made offers to me which were identical to those made to coaches who had never won anything."
Scolari's salary is a stumbling block for the FA. Chief executive Brian Barwick has to count every penny due to their stretched finances which have been put under further strain because of the delay over Wembley.

Middlesbrough boss McClaren: We must now win UEFA Cup

Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren says they must go on and win the UEFA Cup after last night's incredible comeback against Steaua Bucharest.

Boro were 3-0 behind on aggregate after 24 minutes. But as against Basel in the quarter-final, they hit back with four goals - and Massimo Maccarone once more bagged the decider.
McClaren joked: "I said lightning couldn't strike twice in the same place and it has done. I can't praise the players enough. We did it the hard way but we're in the final and deserve it."
McClaren insisted he was not thinking about events at Soho Square on the day the FA offered the England job to Luiz Felipe Scolari.
Mac said: "What disappointment about England?
"All I've been concentrating on is this game and the chance to get into a European final.
"My thoughts have been solely on this job.
"I've had three semi-finals in a week so how could I have thought about anything else.
"It's been a saga and it's up to the FA how they approach it.
"Until something is finalised we are dealing with ifs and maybes."
Boro will play Spanish side Seville in the final in Eindhoven on May 10.
That possibility looked a long way off when Nicolae Dica and Dorin Goian gave Steaua Bucharest a 3-0 lead on aggregate.
But Maccarone gave the Teessiders a lifeline before Mark Viduka and Chris Riggott levelled the tie in the second half.
McClaren added: "It's a phenomenal achievement.
"First we had to play 38 games to get into Europe and now we've needed 15 games to get to the final.
"We must go on and win it. If we're 3-0 down after 10 minutes we will be OK!"

Middlesbrough's Hasselbaink: I'll love Macca until day I die!

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink says Middlesbrough teammate Massimo Maccarone will forever be his hero after last night's two-goal blast fired them into the UEFA Cup final.
The Dutchman said: "I love Massimo, I will love him until the day I die."
Boro chairman Steve Gibson said: "I can't believe what I've just seen. If somebody had written this script you wouldn't believe it."

Middlesbrough boss: Lightning can strike twice!

Middlesbrough fans are in dreamland after another astonishing comeback at the Riverside fired the club into it's first European final last night.

Massimo Maccarone's 89th-minute goal put Middlesbrough in the Uefa Cup final after another astonishing comeback. Steaua Bucharest led 1-0 from the first leg and extended their lead early on through Nicolae Dica and Dorin Goian.
As in the previous round against Basle, Boro were left needing four goals to win but Maccarone's angled drive and Mark Viduka's header gave them hope.
Chris Riggott scrambled home a third to level the tie on aggregate before Maccarone's header snatched victory.
Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren was jubilant after his side booked their place in the UEFA Cup final against Sevilla.
McClaren said: "I cannot believe it. It is incredible.
"It was down to character and attitude. I said that in the previous round against Basle - it was the same here.
"I said that lightning couldn't strike twice in the same place but it has done. Now let's go one step further and win the final."

Reid set to snub Man Utd for Blackburn deal

Blackburn midfielder Steven Reid, reportedly a summer target for Manchester United, is poised to commit his future to Ewood Park.

A few weeks ago, the 25-year-old entered into negotiations with Rovers over a new contract after earlier this year switching to a new agent in former United and Blackburn defender Kevin Moran.
Republic of Ireland international Reid, who has enjoyed his best season this term since turning professional, said: "There has been progress.
"Negotiations have started and we are still talking, but it is all looking positive, really good. We're very close.
"Kevin's doing a good job for me. Hopefully it won't be long until things are resolved and then I can look forward to my future with Blackburn.
"I'm really enjoying my time here and hopefully that will continue for at least the next four years."

Blackburn boss: Scolari appointment blow to British coaching

Mark Hughes has described the prospective appointment of Luiz Felipe Scolari as the next England manager as "a blow to British coaching".
Brazilian Scolari has been offered the chance to succeed Sven-Goran Eriksson following this summer's World Cup by Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick.

Blackburn boss and former Wales manager Hughes said: "If he is the appointment that is going to be made, you have to say he ticks most of the boxes, but for my money it's another blow to British coaching.
"A lot of the talk initially was that it would be an English or British coach, and I hoped that would be the case.
"The argument was that if it wasn't to be a British coach, then it had to be the best man for the job.
"Scolari's CV at international level is outstanding. You can't get much better than winning the World Cup, the highest honour in football.
"But whether or not he is the best man for the job when he is coaching and working with players with a different mentality to those he has worked with before, remains to be seen.
"Would Arsene Wenger or Sir Alex Ferguson be the best man because they have worked here for many, many years, know the mentality of English players and how to get the best out of them?"

Chelsea fined for West Brom clash

Chelsea have been fined £10,000 by the FA after their players surrounded referee Mark Halsey during last month's clash at West Brom.

The Premiership champions were found guilty of failing to control their players and also warned about their future conduct in games following a disciplinary commission hearing.
A statement from the FA confirmed: "Chelsea have been fined £10,000 and warned as to their future conduct for failing to control their players during a match against West Bromwich Albion last month."
The Blues face a similar charge of failing to control their players from a game against Fulham on March 19. This case will be heard separately but a date has not been fixed.

West Brom deny Peace, Robson rift

West Brom have denied reports that chairman Jeremy Peace has fallen out with Bryan Robson over his holiday in the Caribbean.

Peace has been away during a period when Albion's relegation from the Premiership after a two-season stay has been virtually confirmed.
But West Brom are adamant that Peace is on leave now to ensure he is available to work with Robson during the summer transfer window irrespective of which division the club will be competing in next season.
An Albion board spokesman said: "The chairman's holiday has been fixed for some time.
"It coincided with a school holiday period and fitted in with his plan to spend the whole of the summer at his desk, when the transfer window is open.
"The chairman has been in daily contact with the club and has watched all three games while he has been away live on satellite TV.
"He will be back at The Hawthorns in time for Monday's game against West Ham."

Inter Milan's Adriano wants £6M-a-year to join Real Madrid

Before yesterday's resignation, Real Madrid president Fernando Martin tried to gain an agreement with Inter Milan striker Adriano for next season.

Martin, desperate to present a big-name to the board, turned to Adriano after receiving no response from Arsenal captain Thierry Henry.
Sources close to Martin say intermediaries confirmed that Adriano wants to leave at the end of this season, but is demanding £6 million-a-year to move to Spain, says AS.
When Martin's predecessor, Florentino Perez, was chasing the Inter centre-forward, he was asking £4 million-a-year.

Zidane wants to stay involved with Real Madrid

One piece of good news for Real Madrid fans yesterday was Zinedine Zidane's confirmation that he will remain with the club when he hangs up his boots after the World Cup.

The French great's media conference yesterday was attended by 150 accredited journalists and after confirming his retirement plans, Zidane spoke of his intentions to continue working for Real.
He said: "I would like to continue with Real Madrid. I have spoken with the president and there is a project that we have with the children. It still has not been developed, but I am thinking about it and if there's an opportunity I would like to be involved.
"I spoke with Florentino (Perez) and the new one (resigned president Fernando Martin) about my future and there are several projects I am considering.
"It'll be more than an ambassador's role. I want to coach, but not with the first team. I want to pass on my experience and knowledge to the juniors."
Zidane added: "I will be staying in Madrid, I don't know if it will be for the rest of my life, but I will stay."

Barcelona's Rijkaard: AC Milan forced us to go defensive

Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard admitted they were fortunate to survive against AC Milan in last night's Champions League semifinal.

A 0-0 draw was enough for Barca to reach the Paris final and Rijkaard admitted they had to sit back and defend in order to get past a "fantastic" Milan side.
"I honestly believe this approach was necessary, as we were facing a fantastic team like Milan. It is a great result for us to go through," said the Dutchman.
"We are used to playing Edmilson as a defensive midfielder. It seemed logical that he often had to fold back even more on Kaka, but he also pushed forward when needed, so it wasn't a pure man-marking job. The important thing was to defend well, as with these strikers you don't need to work too hard on the attacking aspect."
Rijkaard was Carlo Ancelotti's teammate at Milan in the late 1980s and admits he has picked up some elements from Arrigo Sacchi's teachings.
"Clearly I always prefer to play attacking football, but we mustn't forget that there are moments against a great side when you have to slow the tempo and try to take back control."

Anderlecht scout Malaga's want-away Gabriel

Anderlecht are following Malaga midfielder Gabriel.
The Brazilian has declared he doesn't want to play in the Segunda Liga next season and Anderlecht had chief scout Werner Deraeve check on the 24 year-old in Sunday's 2-1 defeat at Real Madrid.

Llaneza: Villarreal bigger, better next season

Villarreal director Jose Llaneza says they're in great shape to build on this season's Champions League run.

Llaneza, who is Villarreal's transfers boss, said: "We'll move forward. No doubt about that.
"This team will have an even greater season next term."
On the transfer market, Llaneza said: "Look, when a player comes here, it's because he thinks that we are a serious club.
"Players know that we meet our promises. It is something that defines us and players know this. And that is very important, because they are human and everything works better when you know that your dreams are fulfilled. That is our idea for the club."
Llaneza also revealed: "We have three players in the Spain U17 team. No other club has that many.
"This club doesn't just worry about the elite players. We have 80 juniors in residence, where along with playing, they are also getting an excellent education in courses such as computer science and English."

Juventus chiefs have £35M to splash out

Juventus director general Luciano Moggi will have £35 million to spend in the summer market.
Moggi and fellow directors, Antonio Giraudo and Roberto Bettega, won't have to go to the board for the funds, having raised the money through player sales and financial management over the last 12 months.
More cash is expected to be raised by the sales of Fabrizio Miccoli, Jonathan Zebina, Marcelo Zalayeta and Alessio Birindelli.

Fiorentina threaten legal action over Arezzo's Pasqual

Fiorentina are ready to go to court to sign Arezzo fullback Manuel Pasqual.

The Florence club have an agreement with Arezzo that they can sign the remaining 50 per cent of Pasqual's registration at the end of this season.
However, it's emerged this week that Arezzo are in talks with Juventus, which could lead to Fiorentina losing the Italy international.
Fiorentina executive manager Sandro Mencucci blasted: "We have an agreement and we are ready to go to court in order to show it. There are also witnesses and contracts that must be respected."
Meanwhile, Arezzo president Piero Mancini insisted today: "There is no agreement with Juventus for our half of Pasqual's registration.
"Our price is set at £3.5 million."

Roma to hand terms to trialist Bertagnoli

Roma are set to hand a deal to Brazilian goalkeeper Julio Sergio Bertagnoli.
America keeper Bertagnoli has been trialling with Roma at their Trigoria training HQ in the last week and has impressed coaching staff.

Roma intend to sign the Brazilian and immediately loan him out next season.

Ancelotti fumes: AC Milan deserved victory

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti was furious after last night's Champions League elimination in Barcelona.

"That was a perfectly good goal and nobody can understand how such an experienced referee could whistle for a foul there," said Carletto after Andriy Shevchenko's header was ruled out in the 0-0 draw.
"Carles Puyol lost his balance when running backwards and that's all there was to it. In such an important game, errors like this weigh heavily on our shoulders and we certainly feel penalised."
Both meetings in the semi-final were evenly balanced and the Ludovic Giuly strike in the first leg proved the only difference between them.
"We were on a par with Barca in both legs and, just as at San Siro, tried in every possible way to get a goal. We're disappointed and especially after seeing that goal disallowed, ruling us out of a Final I think we would've deserved," added Ancelotti.
"We leave this competition with our heads held high. Although we struggled a little at the start of the tournament, the squad stepped up a gear and was unlucky to go out in the semi-finals. The team did everything it possibly could today and created chances, but our regrets are only wrapped up in failing to score at the end of it."
Milan are still in the running for the Scudetto after cutting the gap from Juventus to just three points, but Ancelotti insists there will be no revolution in the summer.
"This is a competitive side and it will be the same next term. A few players will leave and a few adjustments have already been organised, but nothing more is needed. Although we have some 40-year-old players, the nucleus of the team is still young."

Moratti: Adriano's Inter Milan future in balance

Inter Milan patron Massimo Moratti admits Adriano's future could hinge on his performances in the final games of the season.

He said: "He needs to end this campaign on a high for himself and to help the team reach its remaining objectives."

Meanwhile, Moratti insists there's nothing suspicious in the delays over signing Alvaro Recoba to a new contract.

"As for Alvaro Recoba's contract renewal, the delay is only normal, as there are other people around him who need to take part in negotiations."

Roeder has Newcastle tracking Man Utd's Van Nistelrooy

Newcastle United are keeping tabs on Ruud van Nistelrooy's situation at Manchester United.
While Glenn Roeder remains caretaker manager at St James' Park for now, the Evening Chronicle says he advised the board to monitor Van Nistelrooy's situation at United, and twice dispatched his chief scout, David Mills, to travel to Holland in recent weeks to run the rule over Feyenoord's goalscoring striker Dirk Kuyt.

Man Utd set to send Howard on-loan to Everton

Manchester United goalkeeper Tim Howard is set to join Everton on a 12-month loan next season.

The American stopper, 26, signed from New York Metro Stars for £2.3million in July 2003 and at one stage looked like being the new Peter Schmeichel.
Howard was the regular No 1 in his debut campaign but last season he shared the job with Roy Carroll, and has since lost his place to Edwin van der Sar.
This season he has made just five cup appearances and did not feature at all in the Premiership.
It is understood Howard asked for the move to revive his career, and he is now expected to leapfrog Nigel Martyn and Richard Wright into Everton's first team.

Bolton confirm interest for Liverpool's Fowler

Bolton Wanderers have confirmed their interest in Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler.
A Bolton spokesman told BBC Sport: "If Robbie Fowler does become available we would certainly be interested in him."
He added: "Some of Sam's comments have been blown out of proportion but Robbie is a player we'd consider."