Liverpool Latest Takeover News

Fans group still plan Reds takeover
Share Liverpool FC insists DIC's offer to buy out the Anfield club will not prevent them pushing forward with their own takeover bid.

The fans' organisation hope to attract 100,000 people willing to invest £5,000 each to run Liverpool along similar lines to other member-run sides such as Barcelona.
The initiative's founder, Dr Rogan Taylor said: "We will continue to monitor this situation but it won't lessen the effort and commitment we are putting into our serious and robust proposal.
"We would like to see the fans have a full and proper say in the running of their club. We are ready to talk to the owners about making that a reality.
"I strongly believe that Share Liverpool FC will have a significant role to play - we have strong momentum and fans are joining by the hundreds on a daily basis."
Meanwhile Dubai International Capital are awaiting developments following their latest attempt to take over the club.
DIC - the investment arm of the Dubai government - on Tuesday made a £400million offer to buy out American co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.
With Hicks having indicated a strong desire to retain his 50% stake, the key to the balance of power would appear to rest with Gillett.
Selling his share to DIC would net him a £25million profit on his investment but Hicks, who is believed to have first option, could also buy him out to take total control.
Hicks has not formally rejected DIC's offer but a source close to the Texan say his position remains as entrenched as ever.
Hicks is only interesting in dealing with parties which would allow him to retain the majority shareholding.
Yet should Gillett choose to work with DIC, who have no interest in joint control with Hicks, the club could be left in a difficult position with opposing parties owning each half.
Whether or not it would come to that, however, is doubtful as sources close to DIC, Hicks and Gillett have suggested a deal must be worked out soon.
The American pair face a difficult short-term future following their recent refinancing of the funds they used to buy the club 13 months ago.
That package loaded £105million of debt onto the club, of which £60million is earmarked to kickstart the club's new stadium development.
It is also anticipated that they will soon need to return to the banks to ask for a further £300million in loans to cover the rest of the project in Stanley Park.
It is believed DIC turned their attention to Gillett after finding Hicks an immovable object in negotiations.
"It's no secret that we have been in discussions with the current owners," said DIC chief executive Sameer Al-Ansari.
"It's not easy because the owners are in dreamland about valuations at the moment."
Al-Ansari later clarified that one of the club's owners "had come out of dreamland", without giving further details, although it seems unlikely he was referring to Hicks.
Should Gillett decide to sell, it is thought Hicks would have 90 days to exercise his option to buy.
Hicks has already said it is "premature" to say he has already raised the money with loans from American business colleagues.
DIC may have to accept that Hicks cannot sell at the moment because he is raising money in the US by floating his entire sports empire - Dallas Stars, Texas Rangers and Liverpool.

Fans offer cautious welcome to takeover

Liverpool fans have given a cautious welcome to Dubai International Capital's takeover bid, urging their American owners to accept the offer.

Not for the first time in recent weeks, supporters are expected to express their dissent towards the regime of George Gillett and Tom Hicks during tonight's Barclays Premier League match with West Ham.
Neil Atkinson, spokesperson for the Liverpool Supporters Union `Spirit of Shankly', told the Daily Telegraph: 'Should DIC make their way into the club, they should be welcomed with caution - they may or may not have the best interests of the club at heart.'
Atkinson listed a number of perceived injustices by the current Liverpool owners - including delays in the construction of a new stadium and holding talks with Jurgen Klinsmann - before adding: '(DIC chief executive Sameer) al-Ansari talks about Tom Hicks' valuation of the club being `in dreamland'. Mr Hicks is further in dreamland if he thinks he will ever be accepted at LFC.
'If he tries to grin and bear it then it emphasises what we already know - he's only in it for one reason: the money and the money alone.
'I'm sure Liverpool supporters will make their feelings known at the West Ham game - let Mr Hicks and Mr Gillett go now with their profit.
'Let us start again with new owners, keep our eyes open and work with them within our heritage and tradition.'

Gillett considering DIC offer

Liverpool co-owner George Gillett is still considering an offer from Dubai International Capital to buy his 50% stake in the club.
That was the end product of late-night talks in London yesterday between Gillett's lawyers and DIC negotiators, led by Amanda Staveley, the former girlfriend of Prince Andrew who has emerged as a key mover in the takeover saga.
Staveley, 34, has been reporting directly to DIC chief executive Sameer Al Ansari and Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
And DIC's stance on the current impasse is to allow Gillett and fellow owner Tom Hicks time to assess the situation.
Reports this morning suggested Gillett had last night rejected an offer for his own shares, as it under-valued them.
However, although DIC have made it clear their offer was final, it has been left on the table and has not been dismissed by Gillett.
It is believed that the American co-owners - neither of whom can currently sell without the other's say-so - will try to discover if they can get a better offer for their holding, but DIC believe they will not discover any other takers which would probably bring the pair back to the negotiating table.
Discussions between advisors are ongoing, which means that by the end of the week there will be further talks to end the current impasse.
DIC believe the key to the talks could be when Gillett and Hicks try to raise a further £300million to build the club's new Stanley Park stadium.
The trouble they had with a £350million re-financing package in January means there are doubts over whether they could find a bank willing to give them more cash.
Hicks is still working on finances of his own to raise enough money to buy-out Gillett's stake. But even if he manages that, DIC believe he will still find it increasingly tough to finance Liverpool's new stadium and the transfer requirements of manager Rafael Benitez.

Latest Footy News

Ferguson planning to retire in three years?

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that that he may step down in three years' time. By then Britain's most decorated boss will have spent 25 years at the helm at Old Trafford.
Ferguson has won 18 trophies after arriving at the club in November 1986 from Aberdeen - and remains anxious for more.
United are still in line for the treble for the first time since 1999 and face Portsmouth in the FA Cup tomorrow.
They are also aiming to retain their league title and have already booked a place in the quarter-finals of the Champions League this week after beating Lyon.
Ferguson had initially planned to retire in 2005, only to change his mind.
That decision was vindicated as he rebuilt his side, going on to claim last season's Premier League crown.
Ferguson believes it will be time go when he is 69.
'I'm getting beyond the future now,' he told French radio.
'I still have a lot of passion. I'm still happy. But I'm 66 now - maybe three years more, then I'll finish.'
Ferguson said it was too soon to mark out his successor. But he added: 'I have a great assistant in Carlos Queiroz. He will come into the reckoning.
'But we have owners and a chief executive who will choose the new man in three years' time.'

Maldini may postpone retirement for a season

Paolo Maldini may reconsider his decision to retire at the end of the season, the AC Milan captain said on Thursday.

'I'm being pushed to play another year. Three months ago I was very unfit but now I am better,' the 39-year-old defender told Sky television. 'I like this sport, I like training.'
Milan's elimination by Arsenal in Tuesday's Champions League last 16 tie had looked like Maldini's last European match.
The one-club man, one of Milan's few good players on Tuesday, had been desperate to play in a record ninth European Cup final and pick up a sixth winners' medal.
Club president Silvio Berlusconi and chief executive Adriano Galliani want him to play another season and Maldini, who started his Milan career in 1985, is tempted.
'(They) are pushing me to continue for another year. We will see,' he said.

Blatter urges clampdown on leg-breaking tackles

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has called for a major clampdown on players guilty of dangerous tackles - and the managers who encourage them.

Blatter believes reckless challenges are one of the biggest scourges of the modern game and insists there should be harsh penalties for the perpetrators, including criminal charges where necessary.
'Dangerous tackling is one of the most important issues in football at the moment,' Blatter told The Times. 'Players who do this kind of thing intentionally should be banned from the game.'
He added: 'Attacking somebody is criminal, whether it happens on a football pitch or elsewhere. It is a crime and should be treated as such.'
Blatter, who is to push for tougher refereeing ahead of Euro 2008, insists managers are often as guilty as the players who dive into challenges.
'The mechanism where this happens today is obvious,' he said. 'The pressure on the coach or manager to win is such that he encourages his players to go for victory at any cost.
'There is no microphone in the dressing-room, so he says, 'go, go, go'. Until when? Until the point where the referee intervenes.'
Blatter also reiterated his opposition to the Premier League's floundering plan for a 39th game, insisting he would not soften his stance.
'It is impossible that they can persuade me of this,' he said. 'They cannot do it.
'It is not only me who is against this, it is others, too. I represent the family of football and I will bring this to the Congress of Fifa if necessary.'

Beckham in 'perfect shape' for England return

Fit-again David Beckham is fully confident he can earn his 100th England cap in the friendly with France on March 26.

Beckham was left out of new manager Fabio Capello's squad for his first game in charge of the national side, a 2-1 victory over Switzerland, due to a lack of match fitness.
But the Italian hinted yesterday he expects the 32-year-old to be in contention to face Raymond Domenech's side in Paris, although he will assess Beckham in action prior to that when the Los Angeles Galaxy face FC Dallas in a pre-season game on March 15.
And Beckham, in Hong Kong for Galaxy's third game of a three-match Asian Tour, believes there will be no doubts about his sharpness, insisting that the decision will be purely down to form.
'Fitness-wise, I'll be perfect,' he said. 'But it's about performing and hopefully I'll do that.'
Beckham insisted he was relaxed over his England future despite his initial exclusion, after being reassured by Capello he would be in the frame for the France encounter, and is also confident he can extend his international career well beyond the Paris friendly.
'That's what he (Capello) said to me. I knew that from the conversation I had with him,' he added.
'He said that once I'm back playing and if I'm fit, and I'm playing well enough, then he'll pick me. With the first game after he took charge, I hadn't played any games and he explained that to me. I've played three games so far now and got through them all.
'I believe I can play for my country for a good few more years yet, that's just me being honest. I believe that I can still play at that level.
'The standard is slightly different in the US but it's not as low as everybody thinks. We've got some very good teams and very good players and we play some really good football so we'll just have to wait and see.
'But I believe I can play for my country for a good few years.'
If Beckham does join Peter Shilton, Bobby Moore, Bobby Charlton and Billy Wright as only the fifth player to pass the century mark for England, he admitted it will be one of the proudest moments of a career that has seen him claim titles in England and Spain along with the Champions League.
'Reaching 100 games and reaching 100 caps is very special,' he said.
'Being a proud Englishmen, it's something that I've always wanted to do since I was a young boy. I've always wanted to play for my country, I've always wanted to captain my country and I've always wanted to reach 100 games because there's not many players that have done that.
'It would be a proud moment if I did that but at the moment I'm working hard on my fitness and working hard with the Galaxy and if i get the 100th cap then great. But we'll just have to wait and see.'

No date for retirement, insists Ferguson

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is refusing to put a timescale on when he will step down as manager.

Ferguson indicated in an interview with French radio that he would bow out in three years.
However he played down the situation in his media briefing before the FA Cup match against Portsmouth tomorrow at Old Trafford.
He said: 'It is something I have said quite a bit. If your health is good and you are enjoying your job, it could be two or three years.
'I am not going to pigeon-hole myself on that one.
'It could be four years, it could be tomorrow. It is impossible to put a time limit on something like this.'
Britain's most decorated boss will have spent 25 years at the helm at Old Trafford, should he retire in 2011.
Ferguson has won 18 trophies after arriving at the club in November 1986 from Aberdeen - and remains anxious for more.
United are still in line for the treble for the first time since 1999 and are odds-on to defeat Portsmouth.
They are also aiming to retain their league title and have already booked a place in the quarter-finals of the Champions League this week after beating Lyon.
Ferguson had initially planned to retire in 2005, only to change his mind.
That decision was vindicated as he rebuilt his side, going on to claim last season's Premier League crown.
'I'm getting beyond the future now, ' Ferguson told a French radio station. 'I still have a lot of passion. I'm still happy. But I'm 66 now - maybe three years more, then I'll finish.'
Ferguson said it was too soon to mark out his successor.
But he added: 'I have a great assistant in Carlos Queiroz. He will come into the reckoning.
'But we have owners and a chief executive who will choose the new man in three years' time.'
Ferguson can speak some French as well as a bit of Portuguese and has been putting his new language skills into practice.
'I enjoy speaking to Patrice Evra, Louis Saha and Mikael Silvestre because it helps improve my French, ' he told Red View.
'Portuguese is also quite prominent here and I am picking up a few words along the way.
'Carlos (Queiroz) can speak Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, French and English..it's very handy.
'The joke around here is that in the dressing room the second language is English.'

Latest Footy News

Rooney pledges never to play abroad

Wayne Rooney has expressed his love of English football and believes he will never play abroad.
The England forward is in his third year with Manchester United and is chasing the treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup after the 1-0 defeat of Lyon took his side into the quarter-finals in Europe.
Rather than look to test himself in Serie A or the Primera Liga, however, Rooney insists he is happy at home and believes the Premier League eclipses all domestic competitions.
The 22-year-old said: 'The English game has improved so much in the past few seasons.
'We have proved we have the best league in the world which is why we attract the best players in the world.
'It is down to other English players if they decide to play abroad but, for me, English football is the best.
'I love playing here and I'm pretty sure that will never change.'

Real count cost of another European flop

Real Madrid's worst fears were confirmed on Wednesday when they exited the Champions League at the first knockout round for the fourth year in succession. The nine-times champions were ruthlessly exposed by a high-quality Roma side who beat them 2-1 at the Bernabeu, completing a 4-2 aggregate victory that will have major repercussions at a club that measures success in terms of European trophies.
'We didn't have that magic we've shown on other nights,' said skipper Raul, whose 61st Champions League goal was to no avail.
'It's a very heavy blow, a really big disappointment because the Champions League was one of our big objectives this season and now we are out of it.
'We were the better side in the first leg, but we came back with a very dangerous result and we weren't able to impose ourselves on opponents who showed themselves to be a very good team. We struggled to create any scoring chances.'
Real were simply not as sharp, as hungry or as skilful as Roma and although they can point to the sending off of Portugal centre-back Pepe as the turning point in the tie, the defeat revealed more serious weaknesses.
The absence of leading striker Ruud van Nistelrooy through injury exposed the team's lack of alternatives up front, while the midfield once again looked short of pace and ideas.
At the back Pepe gave further evidence of poor judgement in picking up two needless bookings, while his fellow defenders struggled to deal with Roma's sharp passing and running off the ball.
'We lacked intensity and tension, maybe because we were worried about their counter-attacks,' said centre-back Fabio Cannavaro.
'We weren't direct enough and we didn't win back the ball enough.'
Only two weeks ago, club president Ramon Calderon was talking up his side's chances of a European and domestic double, saying that the squad was the 'best in the world' and the team was 'playing like a machine.' Last night he was forced to change his tune.
'This is clearly a failure,' he said. 'When the season ends we will have to sit down and analyse the situation and if there are chances of strengthening the squad we will take them.'
Out of the King's Cup and out of Europe, Real's only hope of silverware lies in the league, where they are still five points clear at the top, but the team's recent form suggests that even that goal could be under threat.
Fabio Capello was sacked after delivering the league title and nothing else. Bernd Schuster can now do no better than the Italian.

Capello opens door for Beckhmam's century

Fabio Capello has confirmed David Beckham is 'in contention' to earn his 100th England cap against France this month and insists the former captain can be confident of achieving the landmark. Beckham missed the recent friendly at home to Switzerland due to a lack of match fitness but hopes to play his first England game under new manager Capello when they travel to Paris on March 26.
And Capello, speaking to England fans yesterday, admitted the Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder can be confident of playing at the Stade de France.
'Yes,' he said. 'Los Angeles Galaxy play in Dallas on March 14 and (assistant manager) Franco Baldini or I will go to see him and assess his fitness.
'He is in contention for France. We will check on him in Dallas and then we will decide whether he will be fit for that squad. He will get his 100th cap if he is fit and in form.
'I know Beckham very well from Real Madrid and I hope David will play the 100th game and get that cap.
'I understand from reading his last interview that at this moment his fitness isn't good and I will phone him because I want to know exactly what he thinks about his fitness.'

Jose: Back in Italy or Spain, then England

Jose Mourinho hopes to return to soccer management next year in either Italy or Spain, the former Chelsea coach has said.
The Portuguese tactician added that he wants to go back to England before finishing his coaching career as Portugal's national team boss.
'Now no, I am studying,' the 45-year-old told Thursday's Gazzetta dello Sport when asked if he wanted to return to coaching. 'From next year however, yes.'
He was sacked by Chelsea in September after a disagreement with club chiefs despite winning two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups in three years at Stamford Bridge.
'Italy or Spain,' Mourinho said when asked about his future. 'Afterwards I want to go back to England and finally be national coach of Portugal.'
The colourful if controversial coach, who turned down the chance of managing England in December, has been linked in the media with Barcelona and AC Milan, whose respective coaches Frank Rijkaard and Carlo Ancelotti are under pressure.
Holders Milan were dumped out of the Champions League by Arsenal in the last 16 on Tuesday after the Premier League leaders won their second leg 2-0 at San Siro.
'I respect Milan and Ancelotti but Arsenal deserved to qualify over the two games,' added Mourinho, who won the European Cup with Porto in 2004.
There has been further speculation that Mourinho may be in line for the Inter Milan job despite Roberto Mancini guiding this season's leaders to the Serie A title last term. Mourinho played down the talk but said he admired Inter owner Massimo Moratti.
'I respect him very much as a person that loves football and his club deeply,' he said. 'However I have never talked with him.'

Latest Chelsea News

Chelsea stroll marred by worries over Cech

Chelsea cruised into the quarter-finals of the Champions League by defeating Olympiacos but the evening was soured by news of an ankle injury to Petr Cech.
The 25-year-old goalkeeper was not involved in the 3-0 win over the Greeks and is expected to have a scan today to determine the extent of the problem he picked up in training.
'We hope it won't be for long,' said Chelsea boss Avram Grant.
Carlo Cudicini, Cech's deputy, had a fairly straightforward return to action as Chelsea joined Arsenal and Manchester United in the last eight of Europe's elite club competition.

Michael Ballack headed in an early opener to establish a lead after the first-leg stalemate, then Frank Lampard tapped in a second and Salomon Kalou added a third just after the break.
It was only when the result was settled that Cudicini was called into action, while Fernando Belluschi also hit the crossbar for the visitors late on.
Although Olympiacos were woeful, Chelsea's result was another response after the recent Carling Cup final defeat to Tottenham.
'I have confidence in my team,' said Grant. 'From day one I have had full confidence in the team, even though most of the people didn't believe we would have a good year.
'So far it has been a good development and that pleases me more than the results.

'We know it was a bad day in the League Cup final. We were only team from the big four to make the final. We showed since then character and good attitude. That is what is important. It's what I like.'
Lampard was upset after picking up a second-half booking for diving, and he protested his innocence after the final whistle.
'He (the referee) said it was because I threw my arms up,' Lampard said on Sky Sports. 'I was asking for a penalty but I don't mind not being given a penalty.
'But to call me a diver, that's not the way I play and it's unfortunate because it puts me on a yellow.'

Lampard is now relishing the prospect of all four English teams being in the quarter-finals, providing Liverpool protect their 2-0 lead over Inter Milan next week
He added: 'What will be will be. If all four of us go through - and Liverpool are in a good position - there will be a great chance of an all-English match.
'It's obviously great for England if we're all in there but if we draw one we will have to deal with it.'

Chelsea captain John Terry dedicated the victory to Frank Steer, from the club's backroom staff, whose mother has passed away

BPL Midweek Preview - Liverpool Vs West Ham

TEAM NEWS

Liverpool

Steve Finnan's groin problem will keep him out again, but Alvaro Arbeloa may start in place of Skrtel, allowing Carragher to return to his preferred position of centre-back. Peter Crouch and Yossi Benayoun are pushing for recalls - we'll have to see whether Benítez sticks closely to the XI used at Bolton or opts to rotate with Newcastle and Inter in mind. Pennant, Agger and Voronin are still injured.

Likely XI (4-2-3-1): Reina - Arbeloa, Carragher, Hyypia, Aurélio - Mascherano, Alonso - Kuyt, Gerrard, Babel - Torres

West Ham

Julien Faubert took a knock at the weekend and it doubtful for the Anfield trip. Nobby Solano may start on the right instead. The Hammers’ injury list remains lengthy: Craig Bellamy misses the return to his former club, while Bowyer, Parker and Etherington are also sidelined. Alan Curbishley refused to criticise his players after the Chelsea game and should keep faith with most, though Dean Ashton may get a recall.

Likely XI (4-4-1-1): Green – Neill, Ferdinand, Upson, McCartney – Solano, Mullins, Noble, Ljungberg – Boa Morte – Ashton

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Liverpool – Dirk Kuyt
As is always the way with Liverpool we can’t be totally sure he’ll play, but nobody can deny that Dirk Kuyt has upped his game in recent weeks. The Dutchman could never be accused of laziness – it’s clear he always tries hard – but he appears have become that much more clinical in recent outings.
Goals against Barnsley and then against Inter have boosted his confidence, as has a more regular run in the side, and by hitting the bar at Bolton he indirectly set-up Liverpool’s second goal. If Liverpool struggle to find the net early everybody will be looking to Torres, but Kuyt has a chance to prove he can deliver important goals too.

West Ham – Freddie Ljungberg
The Swede played a prominent role in a few smash-and-grab Anfield victories during his time with Arsenal. His West Ham career hasn’t taken off in the desired manner yet, partly due to injury, but Ljungberg nevertheless bagged his first goal of the season against Birmingham a few weeks back and – after failing to do so on Saturday – will seek to prove he’s still useful against big-name opposition.

PREDICTION
Liverpool still have some tough fixtures to come and consequently need to put together a run of results now. Home win.

Liverpool 2-0 West Ham United

Champions League Round Of 16 Preview - Chelsea Vs Olympiakos

TEAM NEWS

Chelsea

The Blues are in the midst of a sequence of four successive games in four different competitions - Carling Cup, Premier League, Champions League and, next weekend, FA Cup quarter-final against Championship side Barnsley, so Grant is having to pick and choose players for each match in an attempt to get the best out of his squad.Lampard's red card at the weekend will not affect his participation against Olympiakos, but Michael Essien is one card away from a suspension in this competition.Andriy Shevchenko's back injury has kept him out of most of the action since Christmas, but although fit again he was obliged to play for the reserves against Reading on Monday night. His performance was described by the Chelsea website as 'low key' as the Blues' second-string lost 2-1.Otherwise, Grant should have a more or less full complement of players from which to select his starting eleven on Wednesday.

Last Starting XI (v West Ham): Čech, Ferreira, Carvalho, Terry, A. Cole, Ballack, Makelele (Alex 84), Lampard, Kalou (Malouda 75), Anelka, J. Cole (Essien 69)

Squad Named For Champions League Matches

Goalkeepers - 1 Petr Cech, 23 Carlo Cudicini, 40 Hilário

Defenders - 3 Ashley Cole, 6 Ricardo Carvalho, 18 Wayne Bridge, 20 Paulo Ferreira, 22 Tal Ben Haim, 26 John Terry, 33 Alex, 35 Juliano Belletti, 41 Sam Hutchinson

Midfielders - 4 Claude Makelele, 5 Michael Essien, 8 Frank Lampard, 10 Joe Cole, 12 John Obi Mikel, 13 Michael Ballack, 15 Florent Malouda, 24 Shaun Wright-Phillips. 42 Lee Sawyer

Forwards - 7 Andriy Shevchenko, 11 Didier Drogba, 21 Salomon Kalou, 39 Nicolas Anelka.

Olympiakos

Lemonis has to contend with a number of injuries within his squad. Lomana LuaLua came back from a foot injury at the weekend, only to dislocate his shoulder and be ruled out for six more weeks. Luciano Galletti (thigh), Vassilis Torosidis (knee), Raúl Bravo (achilles) and Didier Domi (thigh) are all still out, but Michalis Konstantinou, who had been out with a groin problem, returned a week ago, while Cristián Raúl Ledesma was back at the weekend following a thigh injury.

Last Starting XI (v Asteras Tripolis): Sifakis, Leonardo (M Konstantinou 85), Júlio César, Pantos, Żewłakow, Stoltidis, Mendrinos (Belluschi 69), Ledesma (Šišić 56), P. Djordjević, Kovačević, LuaLua.

Squad Named For Champions League Matches

Goalkeepers - 1 Leonidas Panagopoulos, 71 Antonios Nikopolidis, 87 Michalis Sifakis

Defenders - 2 Christos Patsatzoglou, 3 Didier Domi, 4 Leonardo, 5 Júlio César, 14 Michal Zewlakow, 15 Raúl Bravo, 18 Paraskevas Antzas, 30 Anastasios Pantos, 5 Vassilis Torosidis

Midfielders - 6 Ieroklis Stoltidis, 11 Predrag Djordjevic, 19 Konstantinos Mendrinos, 22 Konstantinos Mitroglou, 25 Fernando Belluschi, 28 Cristián Raúl Ledesma, 77 Mirnes Šišic

Forwards - 7 Luciano Galletti, 9 Darko Kovacevic, 10 Leonel Núñez, 20 Lefteris Matsoukas, 23 Michalis Konstantinou, 32 Lomana LuaLua.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Chelsea Petr Cech: Undoubtedly one of the world's top goalkeepers, Cech is normally the epitome of reliability, but high profile errors against Arsenal in the Premier League and Tottenham in the Carling Cup final led to goals for Chelsea's opponents, who won both games. However, the Czech Republic international, who recovered from a depressed fracture of the skull last season and has worn a protective head guard ever since, looked back to his best against West Ham at the weekend, and will be determined to preserve Chelsea's superb defensive record in this competition by keeping another clean-sheet., mindful that Olympiakos must score to win.

Olympiakos Antonios Nikopolidis: Cech's counterpart in the Olympiakos side, Nikopolidis is set to become the Greek footballer with the most Uefa Champions League appearances to his name. Wednesday should see him play his 53rd game in the competition. He has featured in all seven of his team's games this season, and been on the pitch for all 630 minutes. Since joining the club in the summer of 2004, Nikopolidis he has missed just five Super League matches. Against PAOK on 23rd February, his save from Sérgio Conceição's penalty made him only the second Olympiakos goalkeeper to save three successive penalties in one season. Nikopolidis, 36, has now saved seven spot-kicks in his Olympiakos career, equalling a record set by Savas Tsanaktsis in the 1961-62 season.

PREDICTION - Olympiakos are an altogether tougher prospect in the Champions League this season, particularly away from home, and Lemonis's side can be expected to give Chelsea a stern examination at Stamford Bridge. But the Blues boast a formidable home record, and are particularly keen to shove the accusation that they have 'bottled it' in the big matches this season back down their critics' throats. With a full squad eager to prove a point and maintain the treble quest, Chelsea should win.

Chelsea 2-0 Olympiakos

Champions League Round Of 16 Preview - Real Madrid - Roma

TEAM NEWS

Real Madrid

Unfortunately Schuster will have to do without a whole host of key players once again as the Madrid injury list continues to grow. As mentioned earlier, Robben is the latest casualty. Van Nistelrooy will remain on the sidelines with an ankle injury, although Guti could potentially return, and take up an advanced role just behind Raul and Robinho.Pepe may be called upon this week to replace the suspended Sergio Ramos; however it will be tough for the Madrid defender as he has just returned from a torn calf muscle that kept him out of action for two months. Metzelder still has another two months to overcome an injury to his foot, which he is currently undergoing rehabilitation work for; whilst fringe player Javier Saviola is also still out with a sprained knee and ankle. Finally, Wesley Sneijder is out for another two weeks as he is still recovering from a fractured rib he suffered in training. In some positive news for Madrid, Robinho’s little cameo on the weekend, which produced two goals, is a good indicator that he has fully recovered from his torn abdominal muscle. In the absence of Van Nistelrooy and Robben, and despite his lack of match fitness, he should play from the start. Thankfully Cannavaro successfully managed to get through 74 minutes of action against Recreativo at the weekend, meaning that he is well and truly over the knock that he picked up against Getafe.

Roma

As mentioned earlier, Spalletti has a near full strength squad at his disposal, with the exception of right-back Marco Cassetti, who is out with a shoulder injury. Panucci will start at right-back, with Tonetto on the left. Juan, Mexes, De Rossi, Pizarro and Perrotta were all rested on the weekend, and thus the Giallorossi will be fresh and raring to go this week.Juan and Mancini have both fully recovered from injury and are definite starters at the Bernabéu, whilst Spalletti will most likely opt to start Giuly alongside Perrotta and Mancini, in place of the out of form Taddei, in the three man attacking line-up behind Totti.

PROBABLE STARTING LINE-UPS

Real Madrid (4-3-3)Casillas; Pepe, Cannavaro, Heinze, Torres; Diarra, Gago, Baptista; Guti Robinho, Raul.

Roma (4-2-3-1)Doni; Panucci, Juan, Mexes, Tonetto; De Rossi, Pizarro; Giuly, Perrotta, Mancini; Totti.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Real Madrid – Robinho: His exceptional comeback could not have come at a better time, as he is a necessity for his side this week. With so many crucial players out of action for Madrid, Robinho must perform, score, and do all he can to ensure that his team succeed. The fact that he did not play the first leg may have its advantages for he and his side, and so, the Brazilian maestro has ninety minutes at the Bernabéu this week to utilize his pace, creativity and quality to ensure his side do not crash out at this stage for the fourth consecutive season.

Roma – Francesco Totti: Totti has been simply brilliant in recent times, and with another wonder strike against Parma at the weekend, he is slowly regaining the brilliance that saw him emerge as the top scorer in Europe last season. As he did at this stage last year in France against Lyon, Totti will be expected to lead from the front this week, as Roma face one of the most daunting trips in European football. When Totti plays well, Roma play well: thus if Roma can reproduce the form that has allowed them to be so successful in recent times, a shock at the Bernabéu may be on the cards.

PREDICTION

This will be a thrilling contest between two quality sides. Despite the fact that Real are decimated by injury, there is still plenty of quality present to get the job done. When a side contains the likes of Casillas in goal, Cannavaro, Heinze and Pepe in defence, and an attacking duo in Raul and Robinho, defeating them is not an easy thing to do.Having said that, Roma are in arguably their best form of the season, and due to their lack of injuries and suspensions, they seem a more team-based unit at the moment. It will be a highly competitive contest, and with Madrid needing to score, goals will certainly come.It is extremely tough to pick a winner in this second leg, and so to not sit on the fence, I feel that the plethora of injuries in the Madrid camp at the moment, and the form that the Giallorossi are currently in, will be too much for El Real to handle. Roma to net the winner at the death.

Real Madrid 1-2 Roma

Latest Chelsea News

Juve Declare Lampard Interest

Juventus will go for Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard in the summer judging by comments made by director Gianluca Pessotto.

The Bianconeri have been monitoring the progress of Lampard for some time, with boss Claudio Ranieri keen to reunite with the player he signed for Chelsea from West Ham United in 2001. The England midfielder has previously expressed an interest in playing abroad, with Barcelona also a rumoured destination, and he is yet to put pen to paper on a new deal at Stamford Bridge.

With 14 months left on his Chelsea contract, Lampard could move for as little as £6m this summer. “He is an excellent player," commented Juve director Pessotto. "I feel we will be able to buy players of his class in the summer.” New ChallengeHaving won everything on offer in the English domestic game it is thought that Lampard now believes the time is right to try his luck elsewhere, with Juve's likely return to the Champions League a key factor.

Grant Wary Of The 'C' Word

Crisis has been a word that might have come out too early in Avram Grant's stint as Chelsea manager, but he admitted that it would be nothing but were the Blues to be dumped out of the Champions League.

Until ten days ago, Chelsea were in the race for four titles, and it is somewhat surprising that Grant has been slammed after only his third defeat of the season - in the Carling Cup final to Tottenham.Given, his big match credentials should come under scrutiny, but to castigate him for a defeat in his first game, and then narrow defeats to Arsenal and Tottenham, does seem a bit rushed.That, however, will change if Chelsea fail to defeat Olympiacos at Stamford Bridge tonight, and the former Israel coach is well aware. A Champions League exit at this stage is simply not on for the Blues.

"If we do not qualify, I think you know the word better than me," he said on the eve of the game.If things go according to the form book, that should not happen, and he was understandably worries about complacency."You know that it is our target to succeed in the Champions League but it's a very tough game at home before we go through.," he warned. It's important for us to ensure we don't concede. "We drew 1-1 at home to Rosenborg and if that happens, we're out. So it's important to score but it's important to keep a clean sheet."

"We haven't been to a final [Carling Cup] and as a good team that wants to be bigger, we need to be in a final of the Champions League. It's not easy because there are a lot of good clubs, but it is our priority."“We attacked in the first game and they defended with all their players,” he continued. "Every game, we want to attack, so it will be the same tomorrow. And I don't think it will be a draw. "But defence is important. We know their record away and they always score. It will be a hard game, but we are at home.”

Cole: Confidence Is Finally Back

Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole says the mood in the Blues camp is better than it's been in a long time. The squad are fully focused and determined to beat Olympiacos at the Bridge tonight

Chelsea have a fully fit squad and competition for places is as tough as anywhere in Europe, but that gives Cole plenty of reason to believe this side can beat Olympiacos and go all the way in the Champions League and other competitions. After being benched for the Carling Cup final, the England international admitted his relief to be back playing against West Ham at the weekend - not that being a substitute fazes him. "It is the same at Manchester United and Arsenal – big clubs have big players who are left out from time to time," said Cole, who scored Chelsea's second goal in an impressive 4-0 win at Upton Park on Saturday. "As a footballer you have responsibility for one thing and one thing only, and that's your own performance. My job is to play as well as I can for Chelsea when selected, and I don't pay any attention to any of the dramas that surround this club."

Confidence Is Back

Speaking of the West Ham win, Cole said it did wonders for the side's confidence and was the perfect way to silence critics after a series of average displays reached a head with the 2-1 Carling Cup final defeat to Spurs. "We had a dip in form leading up to the final and that culminated in a poor performance," admitted Chelsea's No10. "But that's in the past and we are only focusing on Olympiacos and playing well. Confidence is high and all the players are fit, which is the first time that has happened in a long while. It's a great moment for this club and we are ready to build some good form."

No Title Preference

And for the moment, the Champions League match tonight is all that matters to Cole, despite the Blues still being in the hunt for the league and FA Cup. "A club like Chelsea have to be fighting for everything," he explained. "You can't pick and choose at this level and on Wednesday all we will be concerned with is fighting to get in the last eight of the Champions League."

CL Preview - Milan Vs Arsenal

TEAM NEWS

AC Milan

Ancelotti has a whole host of injuries to deal with in the lead-up to this match, including the fitness of Dutch veteran Clarence Seedorf, who picked up a muscular injury against Lazio at the weekend. He is rated as having a 50/50 chance of playing; however the early signs are not promising. As mentioned earlier, if he is to miss out, Inzaghi and Pato will start up front together. Also in the Lazio match, both Emerson and Jankulovski succumbed to injury, and are certain to miss the second leg. There are doubts still lingering over the fitness of star central defender Nesta, and more importantly over the FIFA World Player of the year, Kaka, however both are expected to recover in time.

Arsenal

Wenger practically has a full strength squad at his disposal for this second leg, obviously with the exception of Eduardo, who horrifically had his leg broken in the match against Birmingham just over a week ago. It is yet to be confirmed whether or not Kolo Toure will take his place in the starting line-up, as he is still battling the injury he sustained the last time these two sides met. If he fails to recover in time, Senderos will be given a start once again, however following his average performance at the weekend, the Arsenal fans will certainly be hoping for a speedy Toure recovery. Robin Van Persie, meanwhile, has been judged as ready to join the squad by Arsene Wenger, but the coach is reluctant to risk starting the youngster.

POSSIBLIE STARTING LINE-UPS

AC Milan (4-3-1-2) Kalac; Oddo, Nesta, Maldini, Kaladze; Ambrosini, Pirlo; Gattuso; Kaka; Pato, Inzaghi

Arsenal (4-4-2) Almunia; Sagna, Senderos, Gallas, Clichy; Hleb, Fabregas, Diaby, Flamini; Walcott, Adebayor

PLAYERS TO WATCH AC Milan – Kaka

Due to his lack of input in the first leg, Kaka will without doubt be looking to make amends for that performance, and what better opportunity to have, than to do so in front of the Milan fans at the San Siro. He has been struggling in recent times with an ongoing knee problem, however, regardless of the pain he feels Tuesday night, Kaka is certain to take his place in the starting line-up, and likely to have a major impact on proceedings. Mark my words, he will either score on the night, or do something magical to produce a goal for his side.

Arsenal – Emmanuel Adebayor

Adebayor was his side’s most dangerous attacking player in the first leg, and was extremely unlucky not to come away with a goal or two in that match. He has another ninety minutes to do so in Milan, however in very different circumstances. He has been a goal scoring machine this season, and the Gunners will need something special from him this week, if they are to obtain a good enough result against the Rossoneri to progress to the next phase of the competition.

PREDICTION

What a match this will be. Two of the world’s best sides, locking horns at one of the greatest stadiums in Europe, in front of a capacity crowd, with the score line locked at 0-0 for now. Who will come out on top – will it be the experience of Milan or the youth of Arsenal? That is definitely a difficult question to answer. However, in my opinion, the degree of difficulty aligned with defeating Milan at the San Siro will be too much for the youth of Arsenal to handle. Following a frantic start to proceedings, the game will slowly begin to settle, and the stage will be set for Kaka to net his twelfth goal of the season in all competitions, midway through the second half. Milan to progress to the quarter finals of the competition, leaving their English opponents to ponder what could have been.

Milan 1-0 Arsenal

CL Preview - Man U Vs Lyon

TEAM NEWS

Manchester United

United are still missing long term casualties Gary Neville, Mikael Silvestre and Ben Foster. Otherwise, Sir Alex will field his strongest side. That means a return to the starting line up for Vidic, Giggs, Rooney and Ronaldo.Home coach Sir Alex Ferguson will look for a balanced midfield performance, although it's clear from the probable selection of Ronaldo, Tevez and Rooney that he has no intention of sitting back. Probable Team: Van der Sar, Brown, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Scholes, Hargreaves, Ronaldo, Giggs; Tevez, Rooney.

Lyon

The suggestion that captain Cris, out since last August with knee trouble, could be poised to take his place at centre half might not be just kidology. The defender started against Lille at the weekend, part of strong line-up that Perrin sent out to do battle against a team in mid-table. Benzema played an hour and Govou and Juninho for less than 80 minutes. Bodmer was preferred in midfield to Källström who was held back along with Grosso.Lyon report no injuries after the Ligue 1 match and Perrin will in all likelihood look to start with the same side that was three minutes from victory over United last month, although Hatem Ben Arfa could take part. Benzema should move up front after angrily playing out of position in that Lille encounter.

Probable Team: Coupet; Réveillère, Squillaci, Boumsong, Grosso; Clerc, Toulalan, Juninho, Källström, Govou/Ben Arfa; Benzema.

PLAYERS TO WATCH Rooney (Manchester United): Before his October injury, Rooney didn’t miss when offered a sight of goal. Since his return, the England forward has not been quite so unerring but has shown his usual commitment to the cause, to the point where he delights the crowd by tracking back to his own penalty area to dispossess an opponent. Ferguson will demand the player does his best work in front of Coupet’s goal. If the manager’s instructions are heeded, United will qualify.

Benzema (Lyon): Lyon’s striker Benzema claims all the headlines with his scoring prowess the key to French success could lie with the ability of Benzema to triumph in the contest against United defence. The player was extraordinary to get a wonderful goal against united,

PREDICTION - A European night at Old Trafford. An evenly poised game. The chance of European glory 50years after Munich. Can there be any other outcome but the continuance of United’s Treble quest?

United 2 -0 Lyon

Premier League Latest News

Premier League defend rising ticket prices

The Premier League have dismissed claims by fans' representative Malcolm Clarke that rising costs may drive supporters away after a survey found the average follower of a Premier League spent £1,331 watching their side in 2007.
Research by Virgin Money, who polled 2,000 fans across the country, showed supporters across all divisions spent around £1,080 on tickets, merchandise, programmes, food, alcohol and travel while one in eight Premier League fans fork out £3,000 on match tickets alone.
According to these figures, the cost of attending matches has risen by 9.28% in the last two years while the consumer price index - a measure of inflation - has increased by just 4.9% with the costs of tickets, petrol and replica shirts the main reasons behind the increase.

While some clubs have frozen the costs of tickets in response to falling crowds and the Football League have introduced initiatives to encourage youngsters to attend games cheaply, some top flight sides have increased match-day prices.
Clarke, chairman of the Football Supporters' Federation, criticised this move saying: 'We applaud those clubs taking action to bring down ticket prices.
'We also welcome the Football League's `Fans of the Future' initiative.
'However, these clubs, particularly in the Premier League, who have put them up this season like Manchester United, Spurs and West Ham United should hang their heads in shame.
'With the huge new broadcasting deal what possible excuse can there be for making football even more unaffordable.

'In the 1991/2 season the cheapest seat at Arsenal was £10. In today's money that is £15.44 or £16.70 adjusted for rising wages.
'The cheapest seat at Arsenal this season is £32. That goes up to a whopping £46 for the big European and derby matches as well as United and Liverpool.
'How can football possibly justify more than doubling ticket prices in real terms at a time when the game is swimming in television money?
'A time will come soon when football will look around at all the empty spaces in the stands and ask itself, `Where did they all go?' That is a real worry.'

While a Premier League spokesman would not comment on the survey, he responded to criticism of ticket prices by insisting the vast majority of clubs offer affordable tickets which has led to the top flight enjoying the highest average attendance for 57 years of over 36,000.
He said: 'Clubs work very hard to ensure there are affordable tickets made available. Last season 17 clubs froze or reduced ticket prices and fans are voting with their feet.
'This season we are recording the highest top flight attendances for 57 years. It is up 5% on last year and the average attendance through the course of the Premier League has gone up 65% .

'Fans want to watch games in safe stadia which requires investment and fans want to see the best players play for their team which again requires investment.'
Fans of Premier League sides spent on average £251 more for tickets and match-day essentials in 2007 than followers of Football League clubs with the former forking out on average £614 on tickets and £358 on travel in comparison to £474 and £286 for the latter.

Gallas: Walcott's No Rooney But United Arrogant

Arsenal captain William Gallas has lashed out at teammate Theo Walcott in an interview, branding his football 'predictable'. The defender also discussed leading out the Gunners, the race for titles and the arrogance of Manchester United.

Arsenal youngster Theo Walcott could be a truly great player, reckons Gunners defender William Gallas. But the captain has echoed the sentiments of manager Arsene Wenger in saying that he's disappointment with the striker's speed of development. Walcott, says Gallas, is not Wayne Rooney yet. Work Harder, Play Better“I think Theo Walcott can be the new Wayne Rooney but he has to change his style of play," the Frenchman told GQ Magazine. “He must work hard in training because everyone knows where he will run with the ball. "He goes on his right foot - so he must work to come on the inside on his left foot. He must be less predictable and more focused. He can also take too long on the ball. Veteran Support"I hope for him he does because he have great potential," added the defender, who offered to lend support to Walcott and the other Arsenal youngsters.

“I’m not their father, they make me feel young but I do try to talk to them," said the 30-year-old. “One young player asked me about an expensive car he wanted and I said ‘save your money, look after your family and then think about cars’. "When I started playing, I saved my money to buy a nice house for my family. But now these young players all want a BMW or Ferrari when they are still only 17 or 18. They don’t have to work as hard as I did. It might not be their fault but it is wrong.” Captain GallasThe departure of Thierry Henry freed up the role of Arsenal captain, which Gallas has taken on. But speaking of the appointment, Gallas stressed he wasn't fazed - he's had years of learning from some of the best. "When I was at Chelsea John Terry was captain and I’ve learned from him, from Marcel Desailly and from Patrick Vieira," commented the Frenchman. "When the chance came at Arsenal I was ready. I tell the players that what I do comes from experience. I don’t think about my performances now, I think about the other players and when they don’t do something right, I tell them. I prefer to have a quiet word with them on the pitch and then speak to them properly after the game.”

Arrogant United.And despite faltering in recent weeks and letting the gap at the top of the Premiership slip to one point, Gallas still believes it will be extremely tough for Manchester United to overhaul his side. Indeed the French defender branded Sir Alex Ferguson's side 'arrogant', something he feels plays into Arsenal's hands. "This Arsenal squad can win things and I know that it will be difficult for Manchester United to win because they have to play us and Chelsea again," he commented. "They are a strong team, with lots of experienced players but sometimes they think they are too good. Too arrogant. It can make you complacent and we understand that problem.

Desire To Win"We know we have to score goals and be strong in defence. I’d like to be in my living room when I am old with a trophy next to me and say that I won that," continued Gallas. "I have spent my life proving people wrong and it has made me tougher as a person and as a player. I have cried sometimes but bad things make me work harder. I want to win everything.” And as far as the Premiership and Champions League go, Gallas believes the Gunners can win both this year. "The mentality we had last season has gone. All our players just want to win - and we know how.” Arsenal take on AC Milan at San Siro tonight in the second leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. A 0-0 draw in the first leg means that a win or score draw will see the Gunners prevail, while a defeat will send them out.

Hicks And Gillet Turn Down Bid; DIC Say Talks Ongoing

The latest news from deep in the corridors of Anfield is that co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks have turned down a £400m bid from Dubai Investment Capital (DIC) for Liverpool FC, but DIC have been quick to point out that talks are ongoing...

It transpired this afternoon that the pair had apparently dismissed a £400m bid for the Anfield side, with rumours then circulating that the American duo were to be given a strict deadline of mere hours.However, DIC spokesperson Jehad Saleh states that any talk of a "take it or leave it" bid to expire by midnight was completely false.He told the press, "No figures have been mentioned [to the public], and talks are ongoing."No timeline has been set on the talks.

"The two parties had been deep in negotiation once before, but the Houston-based pair were accused by DIC of being in "dreamland" with regards to their valuation of the club.Since then, they have apparently found more common ground with the Dubai suitors, but talks, as they say, are ongoing.There have also been rumblings that Hicks is looking to buy Gillett out of his share in the club, but such discussions remain in their early stages.

Chelsea Latest News

Lampard three-match ban overturned by FA

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has escaped a three-match ban after the Football Association overturned his red card against West Ham at the weekend.

The 29-year-old was dismissed in the first half at Upton Park for a clash with Luis Boa Morte, although referee Peter Walton told an FA regulatory commission he and his assistant made a mistake.
The commission had to decide whether a 'serious and obvious' error had been made when Lampard was sent off for no more than a push in Boa Morte's chest.
They also had to take into consideration referees being instructed that, while endangering an opponent warrants a red card, contact on or above the neck is deemed violent conduct under UEFA guidelines.
Lampard's reprieve allows him to play against Barnsley in the FA Cup and the Barclays Premier League matches against Derby and Sunderland.
Chelsea boss Avram Grant was upset earlier in the season when Ashley Cole's appeal failed, and Lampard's case came a week after Middlesbrough's Jeremie Aliadiere saw his ban extended by a match for his appeal being 'frivolous'.
Grant was pleased with the outcome of Lampard's appeal.
'I think the decision is the right decision because even the referees sometimes make mistakes, especially the assistant referees,' the Chelsea boss said.
'It is not the first time. I think for the FA it is important to show when the referee makes a mistake that the game is fair for everybody. I was not happy when they did the same with Mikel (John Obi) it is a good start.'
Lampard's red card mattered little on the day, with Chelsea winning 4-0. The FA's decision also provides positive news ahead of the Champions League last-16 clash against Olympiacos, with the tie poised at 0-0 going into the second leg at Stamford Bridge.
'They will be a danger,' said Lampard in the London Evening Standard. 'They play a strong and compact game and are dangerous on the counter-attack.'
Lampard. meanwhile, is relishing Chelsea's role in the domestic title race and feels the club will be motivated by proving critics wrong after their Carling Cup final defeat to Tottenham.
'Everyone has been waiting for Chelsea to take a fall,' he said. 'It comes with the territory of being so successful over the last three or four years.
'So for us to lose a cup final a lot of people have taken a great deal of glory in it and that's a fact. But we won back-to-back championships and were still criticised for being boring, so we want to forget what anyone else says.
'What's very important is that we unite as a club on the inside - players, staff and fans as well. We must remember what we have achieved and what we can achieve. Together we have a great chance of doing it this season.
'I have seen a lot of people leaving us out of the running and I like that in a way. If we win our game in hand we are four points behind Arsenal and three behind Manchester United.
'We have to play them both at home, while they also have to play Liverpool. It comes down to us. If we go on a fantastic run and win the majority of our games we can win the league, that's a fact.'

Chelsea Idol? Club to give trials to Chinese TV winners

Chelsea are to give trials to four Chinese youngsters after agreeing a partnership with a talent show in the People's Republic.

The Super Soccer Star programme will be broadcast in the southern Chinese province of Guangdong next month, and the lucky quartet who are judged to have the most promise will then visit Chelsea's academy at Cobham in Surrey and their Stamford Bridge ground.
The contest is open to players aged between 14 and 16 and is another component of Chelsea's bid to boost their profile and presence in the Far East.
They are already the official football development partner of the Asian Football Confederation's Vision China project, which aims to set up 10 city leagues in China.
Blues chief executive Peter Kenyon said: 'We are delighted to be involved in such an innovative project that helps us deliver on our continuing commitment to promote grass roots football amongst youngsters in China.
'The show complements our involvement in Vision China with the AFC as well as showcasing Chelsea to a large audience and we look forward to hosting the finalists of Super Soccer Star in England.'

Footy News

Bayern Interested In Kuyt
Bayern Munich are considering making a bid for Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt in the summer according to reports emanating from Holland.

The Reds forward has never really hit the form expected of him and has struggled for goals this season, hitting only three in the Premier League thus far.
Rafa Benitez quite often played him out of position wide on the right with Steven Gerrard preferred in the central role.
Kuyt did get amongst the goals against Inter in the first leg of Liverpool’s Champions League tie, but Dutch magazine ‘Sportweek’ claims that Bayern Munich are keeping tabs on the player in preparation for a summer bid.
Bayern look set to lose one of their three forwards Luca Toni, Miroslav Klose or Lukas Podolski, and with the Goran Pandev move apparently dead in the water, Kuyt is seen as a suitable replacement by those in the know at the Allianz Arena.
Liverpool paid £9 million to Feyenoord for the 27 year but are unlikely to consider any potential business until they have secured Champions League football next season with a fourth place finish in the Premier League.

Adriano: Call Me Emperor
Adriano's behaviour appears to be growing increasingly unpredictable once again, with the gifted striker now informing local media in Brazil that he must be called The Emperor...

Originally, the on-loan Inter man told the local press that only his form at Sao Paolo could see him regain the Emperor tag.Now, though, he seems to have a change of heart."When I first got here, I said that people wouldn't be right to call me l'Imperatore yet," he blared."However, I've changed my mind now. You have to call me that from now on."I am l'Imperatore. I deserve this nickname because I've worked very hard to achieve what I have so far. I won't have this destroyed."The 25-year-old is in deep trouble at Sao Paolo after first being suspended due to a minor headbutting incident, and then arriving late and leaving early from training on Friday.He has already been fined 40% of his wages, and club officials have told the press that they are considering his future.

Materazzi Wins Libel Action Against Daily Star Over Zidane Head-Butt
Inter defender Marco Materazzi has won a libel action against the Daily Star after the newspaper published a series of false articles relating to Zinedine Zidane’s sending off during the 2006 World Cup final.

Zidane was infamously red-carded during Italy’s victory over France in Berlin after he head-butted Materazzi in the chest in extra time. The next day the Daily Star, printed a series of defamatory articles in which they said that Zidane reacted after Materazzi called the Frenchman’s mum a “terrorist whore”. It was later revealed by 'The Matrix' that Zidane’s sister was the subject of the insult and that no racism or the word "terrorist" was ever used, however the newspaper failed to correct their error or apologise. This left them open to libel, and Materazzi’s lawyers issued a High Court action for damages in July 2007, claiming “enormous damage to the footballer’s reputation”. The 34-year-old’s lawyer, Steven Heffer, has revealed that the Daily Star have agreed to publicly apologise and will now have to pay the Matrix damages plus foot the bill for legal costs. “The Daily Star now accepts that these allegations are wholly untrue and there is no question of Marco having said anything of a racist nature to Zidane whatsoever,” said Heffer. “The Daily Star agreed to apologise publicly to Marco Materazzi, both in the newspaper and by way of statement in court. The Daily Star will also be paying substantial damages and his legal costs.”

Latest Chelsea News

Terry seeks to cool waters with rallying cry

Chelsea captain John Terry has reiterated his commitment to the club in the wake of the Carling Cup final defeat by Tottenham last Sunday.

Terry, who was involved in a training-ground row with first-team coach Henk ten Cate the day before the Wembley showdown with Spurs, was unsure of his place in the starting line-up after he was omitted from the Champions League side that drew with Olympiacos the previous Tuesday.
But he has been quick to make it clear that he wants to stay at Stamford Bridge for life and is looking forward to the rest of the season after two months spent on the sidelines with a fractured foot.
'I really can't see myself leaving and I signed a new contract earlier in the season. I love the club, and I'm so passionate about Chelsea,' Terry said.
'I just want Chelsea to succeed. I like to think I know what the fans go through on a weekly basis. I don't just come in, train and go home and forget about things, I take it home with me.
'I am fortunate to be in the position I am at an amazing club like Chelsea, and to enjoy the things that come with being a professional footballer.
'I have been here on £45 per week and worked my way through to being where I am today. I appreciate everything and work hard every day.'
Terry also admitted that Avram Grant's squad must use the defeat at Wembley to spur them on to glory in the remainder of the season.
'It's hard to take any defeat, let alone a final,' he said.
'The boys worked their socks off to get to the final, and it's the worst time to lose, but we have to pick ourselves up, and we're still fortunate enough to be in all three competitions, and we're still very much in contention.
'The Premier League is still close, and we have a great chance in the Champions League and FA Cup, which is our trophy so we need to stay positive.
'Over the last three or four years we've got into a mode where we've been dominating things and we've been in the final stages and had a taste of success.
'There have been a couple of occasions where we've lost out and that is not a nice feeling, and I think no-one likes to lose, we didn't want to, but we have to use it as a positive and be more hungry in the future.
'Having that taste of defeat is not a nice feeling to have, and there are things out there we can win, like the Champions League that we still haven't won.'
Terry also said that he is under no illusions that, even as captain, he has to fight for his place like everyone else.
He added: 'There are so many world class players, and seeing how well Ricardo Carvalho, Tal Ben-Haim and Alex are doing, makes me want to get back and train, and prove myself again.
'It's horrible because you read things where people think they can walk back in the team, and I certainly haven't thought that.
'I've watched games and seen two players playing so well together so I had to work my socks off.
'It's not down to me or anybody else to pick the team, it's down to the manager and thankfully he's seen enough to put me in.'

Bridge snipers provoke Grant rant

Avram Grant has launched an angry tirade against his critics and has denied Chelsea are in crisis after Sunday's Carling Cup final defeat
On Friday afternoon, a rattled Grant launched into his most fearsome outburst since taking over from deposed Jose Mourinho last September.
The 52-year-old Israeli rounded on his detractors and lashed out at agent interference, inaccurate media reporting and a lack of respect for what he and his players have achieved since he took charge at Stamford Bridge.
Grant also explained that captain John Terry and first-team coach Henk ten Cate shook hands and hugged seconds after their training-ground row the day before last weekend's cup final at Wembley, where Tottenham won 2-1 after extra-time.
Chelsea also revealed they have issued legal correspondence over reports that scouting chief Frank Arnesen allegedly wants Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard as their next manager.
Grant initially began his pre-match media conference ahead of Chelsea's Premier League game at West Ham on Saturday in a low-key mood but his demeanour soon changed.
"If you speak about the last game, we didn't play well and we lost," said Grant calmly.
"The other five months, it was okay.
"Sunday was a bad game, a bad day in the life of the team. It happens sometimes. We lost the game but we are fighters and we move on."
But when asked about his relationship with the players following the defeat by Spurs, Grant reacted angrily.
"Why didn't you ask that question a week ago?," he fumed.
"Just because we lost one game... now, this is wrong, that is wrong.
"I don't want to defend myself about this. The spirit is very good in the team, the situation is very good with the team. We're sorry about what happened against Tottenham. I'm sorry, but we did a good job in the previous five months."
His unhappiness continued as he was quizzed about the training ground bust-up between Ten Cate and Terry.
Grant added: "I liked what Alan Shearer said. If you're a player, you know things like that happen. It was a discussion, you move on. They shook hands a minute later.
"No team in the world is without fighting. Sometimes it happens. Everything was okay a minute later. They shook hands, hugged."
Grant then made it clear that he had no problems with any of his staff, including Arnesen and owner Roman Abramovich.
"I have no problem in relation with anyone at the club," he said.
"We have a very good relationship with the staff, the players, with everyone.
"It's not been easy but we've won a lot of games together. I speak with Roman Abramovich a lot of times. No-one was happy with what happened in the game on Sunday.
"I respect the media in England - even though you gave me no credit at the beginning, but since then I've heard a lot of lies.
"Roman Abramovich has never told me one player that he needs to play, never told me to pick the team this way or that. I'm in charge. Please, you need to respect my professionalism.
"You're (the media) trying to hurt the team, hurt the club because we lost one game. If we lose tomorrow... wait with the knife a little bit.
"When a new player comes to my team, I give him two months to show what he can do.
"You didn't behave too nicely. Now I don't respect you too much because we lost one game and you've taken it too far. I don't like it. You hurt my players, you hurt the club and this is not the right way.
"We were the only team to get to the final from the big four, we are still in all the other competitions. We've won 24 games in 35. We have done a fantastic job in our opinion.
"The relationship is fantastic between the squad. Now, because we lost, this and this and this is not good. What wasn't good is that we lost the game.
"You have to see the facts of what's happened in the last few months and give respect to the players and to me for what we have achieved."
Grant also responded to the touchy subject of playing Nicolas Anelka on the left wing against Spurs - a position that left him isolated for much of the game.
"He had a bad day," agreed Grant.
"But I take the responsibility for everything - for my staff, for my selection. If I decided to play some players after injury, that was my decision.
"Criticise me for that. If I put Anelka on the left side, it's my decision. I'll take criticism on that."
Grant though rejected suggestions that some players had been critical of his team selection after the game and accused some agents of creating unrest within the camp by leaking incorrect information to the media.
"The players are fantastic," said Grant.
"They behave nicely. Don't listen to agents so much. I sat down with the team and they felt they didn't perform well.
"I agree with Sir Alex Ferguson. Agents came to football to make things easier for the players. But sometimes they link things to the papers they don't need to and sometimes it hurts the team.
"But it's your problem. You need to check the facts. Some 95% of what was written didn't happen. But I don't think it was because of the agents that we lost the game.
"I know there were some players who were disappointed not to play, but that's part of it.
"No one has criticised me for the team that was selected. They all look forward. All the players knew the day before that they were playing. But, if I want to name the team three hours before the game, I'll do that.
"I'll do what I want. Nothing was different to other games. What was different was we lost."

Latest BPL News And Jose Heading To Barca ?

Benitez backs Gerrard's angry blast

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez insists everyone at the club shares captain Steven Gerrard's assessment of their troubled season. Gerrard claimed he felt 'gutted every time I look at the table' and insisted chasing fourth place was unacceptable for the Anfield club. But instead of chastising the midfielder for his comments, the Spaniard has rallied behind him and echoed his thoughts.

Benitez said: 'Everyone at Liverpool shares Steven's sentiments. There is no question about that.
'We wanted to be further up the table and the fact we are not is a disappointment to everyone.
'We are still confident of finishing in the top four, which would obviously mean we would qualify for next season's Champions League.'
And it is that competition, in which the club have excelled during the Spaniard's reign, which he believes can save their stuttering campaign.
'The important thing now is to concentrate on what we can still do,' he said.
'We are still in the Champions League and our record in that competition is one that most other clubs would envy.'

Mascherano finally signs permanent deal
Javier Mascherano has completed a permanent move to Liverpool by signing a four-year deal.

The Argentina midfielder has been at Anfield since ending a brief stint at West Ham and until today was on a long-term loan deal from owners MSI.
'I am very, very happy and now I can concentrate just on playing football,' Mascherano told Liverpoolfc.tv.
'I said all along that I wanted to stay at Liverpool and now that I have signed I can say this is the best and the biggest moment in my career so far.
'From the first day I arrived at Liverpool the feeling was good and I knew this was where I wanted to play my football.
'It's good news for me and my family that everything is sorted and I know where my future is going to be. I just want to do my best for the fans and the people of the club.
'I am at a top side and I know I can win titles here. That's the big thing for me. I want to be at a club where we can win trophies and have success.'
Manager Rafael Benitez was just as delighted to secure the services of the 23-year-old midfielder.
'We must be really pleased with the situation now,' said the boss.
'He has been a key player for us since he has been here and now we know he can be a key player in our future.
'From the start we knew Javier was a player with quality and a fantastic mentality. We knew the player when he was in the reserves at River Plate but was playing for the senior national team and we had been monitoring his career since then.
'He is young but he has great experience having played for his country. We knew he would be a good signing for us.
'It's clear that he is one of the best midfielders in the world but he can get better with us. We now have a lot of good options in the centre of midfield and that's good news for the club.'
Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry, who worked painstakingly to finalise the deal, added: 'Our overriding thought is that we are delighted to have signed a world-class player on a long contract and I know Javier is thrilled too because he was keen to have his long-term future resolved.
'I think this signing demonstrates two things. Firstly, that life at the club goes on despite all of the speculation to the contrary.
'And secondly it demonstrates in very large measure the ongoing commitment of the owners who once again have come good when funds have been needed.'

Fergie: Premature to write off Chelsea now

Sir Alex Ferguson is wary that Chelsea could come up on the rails and take the Premier League title.

Avram Grant's side are nine points adrift of Arsenal and six behind United but have a game in hand on both their rivals.
Ferguson takes his team to Fulham tomorrow, insisting the title race will be tight and tough.
'The number of points Chelsea are behind Arsenal is not insurmountable because in this Premier League points can be dropped,' the United boss told http://www.leaguemanagers.com/.
'The fact that they have got us and Arsenal at home, and their home record is so good, you would have to think they have still got a big chance in the Premier League.'
Ferguson, however, believes Chelsea would be happier winning the Champions League rather than the domestic crown.
He said: 'I think that is what they are really after given Roman Abramovich's contribution to their rise in the last few years.'
Ferguson, meanwhile, is adamant United will continue to allow their players to express themselves as they chase a second successive title.
Certainly, they go to relegation-threatened Fulham in good heart after the 5-1 thumping of Newcastle at St James's Park at the weekend.
With the likes of gifted young stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Carlos Tevez, Anderson and Nani on their books, it is little wonder the manager looks forward with optimism.
He said: 'The players have that joy of being at a club with a lot of ambition.
'It is good to see young players having the energy and the commitment to try and enjoy themselves.
'We work hard at making sure that they are relaxed in that respect with a responsibility to use their talents all the time to express themselves.
'We are fortunate in that it is easier for them, than a lot of other players because they are exceptional talents.'

Fergie: Experience could be key

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United have the experience to overtake Arsenal and retain their Premier League title.
Ferguson's side face Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday aiming to peg back a three-point gap on the Gunners at the top of the table with Chelsea also in the frame.
United are scoring goals for fun and thrashed Newcastle 5-1 at St James' Park at the weekend.
Ferguson said: "We have real experience in Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and Edwin van der Sar. That is important.
"In addition Gary Neville and Mikael Silvestre will be back shortly (after injury) and add to that experience.
"Hopefully that will be crucial and we can hit a rich vein of form. But we do not take things for granted as two good teams are competing with us.
"We hope Arsenal and Chelsea drop points every game. You are selfish about these things. But points will be dropped. It is inevitable."
With a crucial Champions League match to follow against Lyon on Tuesday - the teams are locked at 1-1 after the first leg - Ferguson is set to shuffle his pack.
Striker Louis Saha is pushing for a place in the starting line-up after scoring in the 5-1 victory against Newcastle.
Ferguson has lauded the Frenchman, whose Old Trafford career has been hampered because of injury.
"It is a great bonus for us to have Louis fit," said the United boss.
"We must try and maximise his worth to us as he is a marvellous striker.
"He will be keen to play tomorrow and on Tuesday. The options are to play him in those games because he is different from the rest of the players."
Ferguson has described Cristiano Ronaldo's scoring rate as "phenomonal" as the Portugal winger attempts to break the 30-goal mark in all club competitions.
Ronaldo, 23, has been a constant threat to opposing defenders throughout the campaign, be it in the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.
He has already eclipsed last season's total of 23 goals and proved he is an exceptional attacking force either out wide or occasionally up front. He scored a brace at Newcastle to take his tally to 29.
Craven Cottage is a ground that holds special memories for Ronaldo as he scored a late winner in that corner of London last season.
Ferguson said: "Cristiano has played as a centre-forward a couple of times and scored four goals in two games.
"That is a great strike rate but to score those goals as a wide player is phenomonal.
"It is a superb achievement and he has cast any doubts aside about whether he could repeat last season's total.
"Ronaldo's performance that day against Fulham was absolutely superb and he changed the face of the game."
Fulham are locked in a relegation battle but Ferguson knows veteran manager Roy Hodgson will have his team well organised.
"It is always a difficult task when you face a side struggling to stay up so you have prepare properly for it," said the United boss.
"We expect Fulham to be trying their best and in Roy Hodgson they have a manager with considerable experience.
"It is a big challenge for Roy but his record at clubs has been very, very good."
Meanwhile Ferguson has sent words of encouragement to Martin Taylor after his challenge on Eduardo, which resulted in an horrific injury to the Arsenal striker.
Birmingham defender Taylor was given a straight red card and a three-match ban.
But Ferguson said: "I have known Martin Taylor as a kid at Blackburn and he has never been an aggressive player.
"He can get confidence from the fact that everyone has acknowledged that.
"That will be his best help. I do not see any big problems for the boy."

Aliadiere raps scares City off Petrov appeal

Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has revealed he decided not to appeal against Martin Petrov's red card because of what happened to Jeremie Aliadiere.

Petrov will serve a three-match suspension, starting with the Premier League home match against Wigan, after kicking out at Leon Osman during Monday's defeat to Everton.
Although Eriksson claimed the Bulgarian had been harshly treated, he has let the matter rest.
That is because Middlesbrough striker Aliadiere's ban was increased from three matches to four after he slapped Liverpool's Javier Mascherano.
Eriksson said: 'It is probably better not to appeal as that was a strange decision.
'If you make a bad tackle and injure someone then that is much more dangerous but perhaps the FA want to give examples to young people.
'They don't want you to put your hand in the face of another player or kick out, even if it is a small kick.
'I can understand that as we are models for young people, boys and girls.
'If they see players getting away with it, they might use those things, so it is up to us not to do it in the future.'

'Mourinho rebuffed Lyon, and heads to Barca'

Jose Mourinho turned down an offer to coach Lyon after leaving Chelsea, according to Bernard Lacombe, the advisor to the French club's president.

Speaking in France Football magazine, former Lyon player Lacombe said club president Jean-Michel Aulas approached Mourinho after the Portuguese coach left Stamford Bridge last September, and after Alain Perrin had already taken charge of the French champions.
'I know that the president approached him (Mourinho),' said Lacombe.
'But the talks didn't go very far. Mourinho was in need of some rest.'
Reports in the French magazine also suggest Mourinho rejected the move as a deal has already been done to take him to Barcelona next season.
In a three-page report under the headline `No to Lyon, Yes to Barca' the magazine claimed Mourinho has held meetings with officials at the Catalan club, during which he received `dossiers' containing lists of players the club hopes to sign.