john the tinca
|
Todays NewsFormer Hamilton Academical forward David Winters has signed for Ross County until the end of the season according to the club website.
Winters previously played at Dingwall in 2003 on loan from Dundee United before making the move permanent.
In his previous spell at County he netted 38 goals before moving to Hamilton in the summer of 2006.
Winters, 25, will not play the Scottish Cup tie against St Johnstone having played for Accies in the fifth round.
|
john the tinca
|
Dundee defender Gary MacKenzie has signed a new contract which keeps him at Dens Park until 2010.
And Dens manager Alex Rae was delighted the 22-year-old stopper had pledged himself to the Dark Blues.
"Gary has been a big player for us this season and I'm very pleased he's committed his future to us," said Rae.
"When we lose he's almost hurting physically and you can see how much results mean to him - it's that kind of attitude that makes me want him here."
|
john the tinca
|
Gretna caretaker manager Mick Wadsworth has admitted the club are still experiencing financial problems.
Players and staff at Gretna recently went without wages while millionaire club owner Brooks Mileson was treated for a brain infection.
Although Mileson is now out of hospital Wadsworth told BBC Radio Cumbria: "Brooks is still ill and the financial lines have been cut at the moment.
"We are working very hard to solve the problem," he added.
|
john the tinca
|
Falkirk midfielder Scott Arfield has signed a new five-year contract with the SPL club.
The 19-year-old, who has represented Scotland at U21 level, has made 28 appearances for Falkirk this season.
"It's great to have everything all sorted out with the contract. Playing in the first team is great," he told the club's website.
Bairns manager John Hughes said Arfield had been rewarded for his excellent performances and workrate.
Arfield, who has become a first-team regular after making his debut in August, said he was enjoying his football under Hughes.
The Falkirk manager said Arfield had performed well for the first-team this season.
"All he wants to do is be the best he possibly can and with his work rate and enthusiasm anything is possible," Hughes added.
|
john the tinca
|
Former Hearts chairman George Foulkes says it may be time for club owner Vladimir Romanov to leave Tynecastle.
"Vladimir seems to have lost interest and Hearts require a hands-on owner," Foulkes told BBC Sport following the 4-0 home defeat to Rangers.
"He seems to have written this season off but Hearts can't afford to do that.
"It looks like the club will be stuck in the bottom six for the first time since the SPL began, and that would be awful for a proud club like Hearts
|
john the tinca
|
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan said he was happy with how his side performed for 70 minutes in the 2-1 victory over Inverness at Celtic Park.
"We played the game how we wanted to play it - patience and variation and not too many long balls," he said.
"For 70 minutes it was absolutely terrific football and it could've been a lot more."
Strachan said Scott Brown's mistake which led to Inverness' goal made for a nervy finish to the game.
|
john the tinca
|
Uefa has warned Spain they could be thrown out of Euro 2008, which may open the door for Northern Ireland.
Uefa may step in if the Spanish government tries to interfere in the election process of the Spanish FA.
Spain topped their qualifying group for the European Championship, with NI finishing in third place.
"Uefa and Fifa deal with these sort of issues very seriously. These are no empty threats - we will back them up," said Uefa spokesman William Gaillard.
"It is similar to 1992 when Yugoslavia was suspended and Denmark, who finished second in the group, came in," added Gaillard.
Denmark went on to win the tournament in Sweden after beating Germany 2-0 in the final.
Spain and second-placed Sweden qualified for this summer's finals in Austria and Switzerland from Group F, with Nigel Worthington's side missing out.
"We have heard nothing about this," said Irish FA president Raymond Kennedy.
"There has been no communication and it is obviously an internal matter."
|
john the tinca
|
University of Ulster Jordanstown have claimed the Collingwood Cup after earning a 2-1 win over the University of Limerick in Thursday's final.
Gary Liggett, who plays for Carnegie Irish Premier League club Portadown, and Johnny Reynolds were on target for the Ulster university.
David Cummins put Limerick ahead in the decider before UUJ fought back to win.
Shane McCullough's Jordanstown side had defeated hosts NUI Galway 4-0 in Wednesday's semi-finals.
|
john the tinca
|
Cliftonville manager Eddie Patterson says his side were denied "a stonewall penalty" in the dying seconds of their 3-2 Setanta Cup defeat by Drogheda.
"We could have snatched a draw with that, plus we had the ball kicked off the line twice," said Patterson.
"It was maybe a fair result in the end but on the effort the lads put in, maybe they could have got a draw.
"We could have been two or three down at the break and a few things were said at half-time to shake the boys up."
"We didn't do ourselves justice in that half but after the interval we played the type of football we are capable of playing, passed it about well and created a few chances.
"At half-time we spoke about composure on the ball, passing and movement off the ball and the boys applied themselves well in the second half.
"We gave them too much respect in the first half and sat off them a bit. After that, we played some good stuff, some neat football and created a few chances, although, on the night, Drogheda probably deserved to win."
Patterson is hopeful that Barry Holland, who had to retire hurt with a dead leg, will be "patched up and ready" for Saturday's Irish Cup quarter-final with Cliftonville.
"It's a big game for the lads but we will be up for it and tailor our training methods on Friday night to get the boys freshened up.
"We are used to playing games in midweek and on Saturday so it will just be a matter of checking on the injuries."
|
john the tinca
|
Crystal Palace teenager Sean Scannell has won the Irish Examiner National Junior sports stars award for football.
The 17-year-old forward, who is a Republic of Ireland Under-18 player, has recently signed a two-and-a-half year contract at Selhurst Park.
The pacy attacker has broken into the first-team this season and scored the winner against Sheffield Wednesday on his home debut in December.
Robbie Keane, Roy Keane and Damien Duff have previously won the award.
Scannell received the award in Dublin from Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson in front of Eagles boss Neil Warnock.
|
john the tinca
|
Sunderland boss Roy Keane says Liam Miller was transfer-listed because he kept turning up late for training.
"The problem is Liam's time-keeping, it is as simple as that. It is nothing to do with Liam as a player," said Keane.
"I have got a lot of time for Liam, but we set a very high standard at the football club and, unfortunately, Liam has not been unable to match that."
However, Keane said midfielder Miller, 27, might still have a future at Sunderland if he changed his ways.
|
john the tinca
|
The Republic of Ireland will face Colombia in a friendly on 29 May at Craven Cottage.
The match will be Giovanni Trapattoni's second game in charge of the Republic and will follow the 24 May friendly against Serbia at Croke Park.
A training camp will also take place in Portugal in the week before the two friendly games.
The game has been arranged for the London venue because Croke Park is unavailable on that date.
Colombia, currently 21st in the Fifa World Rankings, will play France in Paris on 3 June.
They lie third after four games of the South American World Cup qualifying group.
|
john the tinca
|
Roberto Martinez has told his Swansea City stars to use their cup hurt as motivation for League One glory.
The Swans agonisingly missed out on a trip to Wembley as Martinez's men lost to MK Dons on penalties in Monday's Johnstone's Paint Trophy area final.
But Swansea are in pole position for promotion to the Championship as they lead League One by 14 points.
Martinez said: "We need to show our character now and bounce back from this disappointment in the league."
Swansea are on their best league run for 37 years due to a 17-game unbeaten sequence that stretches back to November 16.
|
john the tinca
|
Mark Pritchard has dedicated Llanelli's FAW Premier Cup semi-final win to the memory of ex-manager and player Gilbert Lloyd, who died last Saturday aged 65.
The striker's header sealed a 1-0 win over Carmarthen on Tuesday' to book a final spot against Newport County.
But Pritchard said their thoughts were very much with Lloyd's family, who include current Llanelli captain Gary.
"We would like to dedicate the win to Gilbert, he's sadly missed around the club by everyone," Pritchard said.
"It was been very difficult, but you could see the support at the match and our thoughts go out to Gary and his family."
|
john the tinca
|
Wrexham boss Brian Little says the time may have come to go on the attack after Tuesday's 2-0 loss to Peterborough.
League Two bottom club Wrexham face fellow relegation candidates Mansfield at home on Saturday in a crunch game.
"Against the better teams we've played a system that can frustrate them and has got us points," Little said.
"We have to analyse this next phase of games and decide whether we play that system or whether we're a little bit braver in our play
|
john the tinca
|
Derby County captain Robbie Savage could be dropped for Saturday's game against Sunderland, after his manager Paul Jewell branded him "ineffective".
Savage, 33, has struggled for form since his £1.5m move from Blackburn and Jewell told BBC Radio Derby: "Robbie is very low on confidence at the moment.
"He is playing with injuries that he probably shouldn't be.
"He will be an effective player for us, but like a few players at the moment he is ineffective."
Jewell added: "His performances are going to attract criticism. There are no two ways that Robbie has played well.
"He is almost trying too hard, and we might have to say 'let's try and get him properly fit and back to where he has been for most of his career'."
|
john the tinca
|
Swansea left-back Marcos Painter will be out for up to three weeks after tearing his hamstring in the loss to MK Dons in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
Manager Roberto Martinez is considering bringing in a replacement on loan after Painter's injury on Monday night.
There is also a fitness doubt about fellow defender Dennis Lawrence for Saturday's league trip to Huddersfield.
But Paul Anderson is now fit after his hamstring problem, while Leon Britton and Ferrie Bodde could also figure.
The midfield pair were injured during last week's 1-0 win over Luton Town, Bodde suffering a shoulder problem while Britton picked up a calf strain.
|
john the tinca
|
Mike Barton has quit as manager of Welsh Premier strugglers Caersws.
He stood down after a meeting was called to discuss the club's current league position as they find themselves three points above the relegation zone.
Barton took charge of the Bluebirds in June 2007 after the long-serving Mickey Evans decided to quit after 15 seasons.
Assistant Dave Taylor will take the reigns for the remainder of the season becoming only the club's third manager since 1992.
|
john the tinca
|
Carlisle United boss John Ward has been named as League One's manager of the month for February.
The Cumbrians remained unbeaten during the month, claiming four wins and a draw from their five league games.
Successive 1-0 wins over Doncaster and Crewe have lifted Ward's side into the second automatic promotion place.
The other contenders for the award were Swansea manager Roberto Martinez, Bristol Rovers boss Paul Trollope and Southend manager Steve Tilson.
|
john the tinca
|
Former Cardiff City captain Jason Perry believes the Bluebirds can beat Premier League side Middlesbrough in their FA Cup quarter-final.
Boro booked their place in the last eight thanks to an extra time own goal from Sheffield United keeper Paddy Kenny to win the replay 1-0.
"There is quality in this Cardiff City side at the moment," said Perry.
"If they can go to Middlesbrough and put them under pressure, I do really think they can win the tie."
Perry captained Cardiff the last time they beat Middlesbrough in the FA Cup back in 1994 when they won 2-1 after extra time in a replay with goals from Phil Stant and Nathan Blake.
And while he says Gareth Southgate's team will be the favourites to win, he believes Cardiff have good chance of causing an upset at the Riverside.
|
john the tinca
|
Swansea boss Roberto Martinez is taking his players to Barcelona for a break after Saturday's trip to Huddersfield.
The match will be the promotion-chasing Swans' sixth in 19 days as they look to make it 18 games unbeaten in the league and 12 unbeaten on the road.
Huddersfield were the last team to beat the League One leaders back in November and Martinez does not want a repeat.
"We are looking to get something back from the first game we played at the Liberty Stadium," he said.
Huddersfield's Galpharm Stadium has not been a happy hunting ground for the Swans as they have lost all four visits there.
February 1994 was the last time they left the town with any points after securing a 1-1 draw at the old Leeds Road ground, and it was September 1992 when they last won.
|
john the tinca
|
Boston United officials say they have held 'encouraging' talks with the Inland Revenue over the club's debts.
Club chairman David Newton says that the Football League wants to use money it has been withholding from United to pay off football creditors.
But Newton says that would be in breach of CVA administration and could lead to a winding-up order.
He said talks had gone well, but a spokeswoman for the Revenue said she could not comment on individual cases.
|
john the tinca
|
Ebbsfleet United boss Liam Daish said his side has what it takes to progress to the final of the FA Trophy, despite being underdogs for the semi-final.
The Fleet will face Blue Square Premier leaders Aldershot after knocking out high-flying Burton Albion 1-0 in their quarter-final replay on Tuesday.
The Shots are nine places and 20 points above the Kent side in the league.
But Daish said: "I'm sure we'll cause Aldershot problems and they won't want to play us in the next round."
He added: "We're capable of beating anyone in this league, and the lads will have a real desire to win.
"We haven't got any superstars but what we have got is a real strong collective spirit and we'll work hard for each other."
The Fleet will play Aldershot over two legs, starting on 8 March, for a chance to play at Wembley in the final.
|
john the tinca
|
Forest Green manager Jim Harvey hopes Jack Russell will still have a role to play at the club despite being named Gloucestershire CCC's team mentor.
The former England cricket wicket-keeper has been helping out at Rovers as assistant goalkeeping coach.
Harvey told BBC Radio Gloucestershire: "He's such an enthusiastic person, the two sports only overlap a little bit.
"I would imagine through the winter Jack's going to have time off and he'll no doubt come along to the football."
He added: "We're looking forward to going along and watching Gloucestershire in the summer and seeing how he gets on and giving him a little bit of support."
|
john the tinca
|
Kidderminster Harriers manager Mark Yates says he is doing everything to get his team back to winning ways.
He kept the players locked in for over an hour after Tuesday's 3-1 Setanta Shield defeat by Rushden & Diamonds to "clear the air".
Yates told BBC Hereford and Worcester: "I'm not stupid, but we put ourselves under pressure, I'm here to do a job, and will, to the best of my ability."
Harriers are without a win in six games and have lost their last three.
|
john the tinca
|
Aldershot have not ruled out the possibility of having top scorer John Grant back in time for Monday's key Blue Square Premier clash with Torquay.
The 21-goal striker damaged his knee and ankle at Tamworth last Saturday.
He has not recovered in time for Saturday's match with Kidderminster.
Manager Gary Waddock told BBC Southern Counties Radio: "Monday's not impossible. He wants to play, but it's whether his body will let him. We'll give him every chance."
|
john the tinca
|
Rushden & Diamonds have released veteran goalkeeper Paul Bastock after extending Nottingham Forest keeper Dale Roberts' loan to the end of the season.
The 37-year-old, who joined Rushden from St Albans City last summer, has left Nene Park by mutual consent.
Bastock, who was recently linked with a return to Boston United, where he is the record appearance maker, started 19 league games for the Diamonds.
He recently lost his place to Roberts, 21, who joined Rushden a month ago.
|
john the tinca
|
Oxford United are close to signing former Lincoln City midfielder Ryan Semple on non-contract terms.
The 22-year-old, who was released by the Imps just before the end of January, could feature in the squad to face Forest Green on Saturday.
U's boss Darren Patterson told BBC Radio Oxford: "He's hungry to play and that is the main thing."
Semple, who has also had loan spells at Rushden & Diamonds and Chester, started his career at Peterborough.
BBC Radio Oxford has full commentary of Oxford's clash with Forest Green on 95.2FM.
|
john the tinca
|
Aldershot have added striker Junior Mendes to their squad for the remainder of their treble-chasing season.
The 31-year-old has made over 300 senior appearances at clubs including St Mirren, Dunfermline, Huddersfield and Mansfield.
Aldershot are in both the FA Trophy and Setanta Shield semi-finals, and remain top of the Blue Square Premier League.
Manager Gary Waddock told BBC Southern Counties Radio: "We have added an experienced player to a good squad."
|
john the tinca
|
Boss Nigel Clough refused to be too hard on Saul Deeney after the keeper's blunder saw Burton bow out of the FA Trophy at the quarter-final stage.
Stand-in keeper Deeney fumbled a shot by Ebbsfleet United's Stacy Long with just four minutes to go in extra-time.
Clough told BBC Radio Derby: "A little mistake by Saul and we're out.
"It bobbled up, hit his arm and went in. But that's the life of a keeper - you can play well for 115 minutes and then make a little mistake."
|
john the tinca
|
Striker Gareth Grant has rejoined Blue Square North side Harrogate Town following a spell at Farsley Celtic.
The 27-year-old started his career with Bradford City and has also played for Lincoln City and Gainsborough Trinity.
He scored 15 goals in 43 games in his first spell at Wetherby Road before joining Farsley in the summer of 2006.
Town manager Neil Aspin said: "There's no question that he's got ability, he's got pace, if he can show the desire then he'll be an asset for us."
Grant signed in time to sit on the bench for Harrogate at his former club Gainsborough on Saturday, coming on after 64 minutes.
|
john the tinca
|
Jon Shaw's late penalty sealed Halifax Town a 1-0 win at Nuneaton Borough to book their place in the Northern semi-finals of the Setanta Shield.
Shaw struck two minutes from time to give the Shaymen a home tie against either Droylsden or Burton Albion.
Halifax boss Chris Wilder told the club website: "If the result comes in the 88th minute through a penalty, then so be it.
"The players deserve something going for them."
The penalty was awarded when Tom Kearney's corner was handled in the area by Carl Palmer, and Shaw slotted home his 18th goal of the season.
|
john the tinca
|
York City manager Colin Walker is on the verge of making decisions about his players who are out on loan.
Phil Turnbull, Ross Greenwood and Alex Rhodes have all been at different clubs for at least the past month.
Striker Rhodes will return to Kitkat Crescent from Bridlington Town at the weekend, but Walker told BBC Radio York the other two will be away for longer.
"I'm not sure they'd be playing first team football here so they are better off where they are," he said.
Walker said midfielder Greenwood is likely to stay at Gainsborough Trinity until the end of the season, while a decision is still to be made on Turnbull, who has been at Gateshead.
"I've got speak to the manager of Gateshead to see whether he's going to continue there," added Walker.
"They're getting first team football so we'll make decisions on them later on down the line."
|
john the tinca
|
Woking manager Frank Gray has said modern young footballers are not as disciplined as they used to be.
He told BBC Southern Counties Radio: "I started at Leeds as a 15-year-old. We had to clean senior players' boots, and clean and paint the dressing rooms.
"I think it prepared us mentally and character-wise for what lies ahead in professional football.
"At my club now, players turn up late for training, and so on. I don't recall one Leeds player ever being late."
Gray thinks it is partly down to modern regulations and added: "You'd be in trouble if you asked someone to paint a dressing room nowadays.
"It all began in the academies, health and safety and all that, and I think players nowadays are a little too comfortable."
|
john the tinca
|
Blue Square Premier side Weymouth have signed teenage Crystal Palace defender Moses Swaibu on a month's loan.
The 18-year-old is yet to play a senior game for the Eagles and has joined the Terras in order to gain some first-team experience.
A tall and quick centre-back, Swaibu has been on Palace's books since he was spotted playing for Croydon Schools at the age of 16.
He has been a regular for the Eagles' Under-18 side as well as the reserves.
|
john the tinca
|
Torquay midfielder Chris Hargreaves says he is confident the Gulls can bounce back from their disappointing draw with Altrincham last Saturday.
United travel to Grays on Saturday hoping to cut the five-point gap to Blue Square Premier leaders Aldershot.
"It's a game that's winnable because they're in a period of transition with sacking their manager, so perhaps it's a good time to play them," he said.
Torquay have one game in hand on Aldershot, who they play on Monday.
And Hargreaves says all the squad are looking forward to the big top-of-the-table clash.
"It's a quick turnaround with Monday's game so an exciting time really," he told BBC Radio Devon.
|
john the tinca
|
Salisbury manager Nick Holmes praised goalscorer Liam Feeney after the 2-1 win over Kidderminster, which was the Whites' 11th game without defeat.
The winger, who can also play in defence, played up front on Saturday.
Holmes told BBC Radio Wiltshire: "He always wants to play, he's got a terrific attitude.
"He always wants the ball, it doesn't matter what sort of game he's having. He's 20 and still learning the game. Everyone sees the talent he has got."
And Holmes thinks Feeney will develop into a striker: "I think he's got a future up there."
|
john the tinca
|
Keith Alexander has been appointed as manager of League Two strugglers Macclesfield Town until the end of the season, with a view to a longer deal.
Previous boss Ian Brightwell has left the club after rejecting the chance to stay on as Alexander's number two.
With 12 games left, the Silkmen sit one place above the relegation zone.
"There are some good players here. We've got to turn things around as quick as we can and I shall try and do that," he told BBC Radio Manchester.
"My time at Bury as the director of football wasn't as successful as I would have hoped but I'm back now as manager which is where I feel comfortable."
|
john the tinca
|
Recent signing Kevin McIntyre feels he is slotting perfectly into his new midfield role at Shrewsbury.
The 30-year-old played mainly at left-back for former club Macclesfield, but he said he feels stronger and more positive in his new role.
McIntyre told BBC Radio Shropshire: "Central midfield is my type of position - getting stuck in and breaking things up.
"I can also get forward a bit more, and I do prefer it here."
He has already been praised by Town manager Gary Peters for his performances, but added: "I think I can get better as the season goes on."
|
john the tinca
|
Morecambe assistant manager Mark Lillis has reaffirmed the club's desire to reach the play-offs.
The Shrimps are 10th in League Two and lie three points off the play-offs ahead of facing Grimsby on Saturday.
Lillis told BBC Radio Lancashire: "We're in a great position and if we'd been offered that at the start of the season we'd have taken it.
"It's tight up there and if any team below us puts a run together they'll be thinking of the play-offs."
Lillis also feels the club's initial target of 50 points from their first season in the Football League shows they have acquitted themselves well.
"If we feel any player's thinking 'I'll book my holidays' then they'll be out," he added.
"You've got to keep going and keep believing and everyone has got to be positive."
|
john the tinca
|
Iain Mills has resigned as a director of Bury after the club received complaints about his wearing shorts.
A statement on the club website said: "He is concerned that his shorts have become a major consideration in connection with the club.
"It is putting the board in an embarassing position which Iain feels is not in the club's best interests.
"He finds this a ridiculous situation and feels this is deflecting from the important issues surrounding the club."
The statement added: "Iain would like to thank everyone involved with the club and the supporters for providing him with an entertaining number of years."
|
john the tinca
|
Aston Villa defender Stephen O'Halloran on a month's loan.
The 20-year-old, who has been capped twice by the Republic of Ireland, has yet to feature in Villa's first team.
O'Halloran, who has had previous loan spells with Wycombe and Southampton, will be in the Leeds squad for Saturday's game at Swindon.
Meanwhile, United left-back Ben Parker, 20, has joined League Two side Darlington on loan, also for a month.
O'Halloran made 14 appearances for Wycombe while on loan last season, and played one game for Southampton in the Championship in January this year.
He has also represented his country at youth levels, while his two senior appearances came against Bolivia and Ecuador in 2007.
Parker leaves Elland Road for Darlington for a month having made 15 appearances for Leeds this season.
|
john the tinca
|
Mansfield Town have extended midfielder Will Atkinson's loan stint at Field Mill by a further month.
Manager Billy Dearden signed the 19-year-old wide midfielder from Championship side Hull City at the beginning of January.
During his spell with the Stags, Atkinson has been a regular in the first team, making five starts and two substitute appearances.
The Tigers have a 24-hour recall clause in Atkinson's deal.
|
john the tinca
|
Lincoln City boss Peter Jackson has been named as League Two's manager of the month for February.
Jackson, who took over at Sincil Bank in October, recently revealed he is to undergo treatment for throat cancer.
The Imps won five of their six games during February to move away from the bottom of the table.
The other contenders for the award were Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson, Hereford boss Graham Turner and Stockport manager Jim Gannon.
Jackson will begin his treatment after Saturday's game with Wycombe, with his assistant Iffy Onuora taking temporary charge.
However, that run of five victories has already lifted Lincoln 11 points clear of the relegation zone.
|
john the tinca
|
Accrington defender Leam Richardson is hopeful Stanley can ease their relegation fears after picking up their first home win since 15 December.
Richardson, 28, scored his first League goal in his side's 1-0 win at home to Brentford on Tuesday, ending a run of six home games without victory.
"We are in a false position at the bottom of League Two but we will stick at it," he told BBC Radio Lancashire.
"We are a bunch of lads who'll keep believing and we'll keep working hard."
|
john the tinca
|
Barnet have made out-of-favour striker Anthony Thomas available for loan.
The 26-year-old joined the Bees from Hemel Hempstead Town last summer after scoring 72 goals in two seasons with the BGB Southern League side.
However, despite that prolific spell in non-league, he has scored just one goal in seven starts and 13 substitute appearances for Paul Fairclough's side.
Thomas also had a loan spell at Cambridge City earlier this season, and is now looking for a loan move.
|
john the tinca
|
Bradford City manager Stuart McCall hailed "a good all-round performance" as the Bantams beat Rotherham 3-2 at Valley Parade on Tuesday.
Omar Daley, Alex Rhodes and Lee Bullock scored the goals as Bradford secured successive wins in League Two.
McCall told BBC Radio Leeds: "If you didn't enjoy that first half, then you're not a football fan.
"I thought it was a good all-round performance and hopefully the fans have gone away entertained."
|
john the tinca
|
Veteran striker Wayne Allison has left Chesterfield by mutual consent.
The 39-year-old has been frustrated with his lack of first-team chances and was also annoyed to be overlooked for the recent assistant manager's vacancy.
Boss Lee Richardson said: "We are unlikely to offer him a role next season and fully understand the reasons why he would now like to move on."
Allison, nicknamed "The Chief", said: "I leave on good terms wishing the club every success for the future."
Defender Kevin Gray will take over Allison's role as reserve team coach until the end of the season.
Allison started his career, alongside Richardson, at Halifax Town and has also played for Watford, Bristol City, Swindon, Huddersfield Town, Tranmere Rovers, and Sheffield United, before joining Chesterfield in June 2004.
He has made a total of 878 appearances in all competitions, scoring 208 goals.
|
john the tinca
|
Dagenham and Redbridge manager John Still believes winning last season's Blue Square Premier title will help his side avoid an instant return to non-league football.
Twelve months ago the Daggers held their nerve to clinch promotion to the Football League for the first time.
Now they are battling to avoid relegation but Still sees similarities in the pressure and hopes the experience will ensure that Dagenham can prolong their foray into League Two.
He told BBC Sport: "Everybody has loved it. It's been a shock for a few, particularly off the pitch where we are a long way behind with facilities
|
john the tinca
|
Hereford United have extended the loan of Southend United striker Gary Hooper for the rest of the season.
Hooper, 20, has been in prolific form since arriving at Edgar Street, scoring six goals in seven games for the Bulls.
Southend boss Andy Tilson watched the League Two promotion chasers' defeat at Dagenham on Tuesday before agreeing to Hooper staying with Hereford.
Bulls boss Graham Turner is also hoping to agree a deal to keep West Brom forward Sherjill MacDonald for longer.
|
john the tinca
|
Grimsby boss Alan Buckley paid tribute to goalkeeper Phil Barnes after his team moved a step closer to Wembley.
The Mariners beat Morecambe 1-0 in the first leg of their Johnstone's Paint Trophy northern area final.
And Buckley said: "Morecambe are a very good side but we defended magnificently and Phil Barnes pulled off some world-class saves.
"I am looking forward to next Tuesday night and we will be doing all we can to get through."
The winners of the tie will meet Milton Keynes Dons in the final at Wembley on 30 March.
|
john the tinca
|
Notts County keeper Kevin Pilkington is expected to be out of action for around two months after X-rays confirmed he has fractured his right leg.
Pilkington broke his fibula during training on Friday, forcing the Magpies to sign Stoke's Russell Hoult on loan.
Pilkington, 33, told the club's website: "The X-ray was positive.
"It showed nothing had moved in the leg so it is just a case of waiting for the bone to heal. I would think six to eight weeks is what I will be out for."
Manager Ian McParland told BBC Radio Nottingham: "It was a freak accident and I feel sick for Kevin. He's been fantastic in the last two months."
Pilkington's place will continue to be taken by Hoult, 35, who has joined on loan until the end of the season.
Hoult made his debut in Saturday's 3-1 home defeat to Bradford City, being beaten by three goals in the space of just 13 second-half minutes.
|
john the tinca
|
Assistant boss Ray Mathias said Milton Keynes Dons deserved to beat League One high-fliers Swansea and reach the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final.
The Dons lost the second-leg 1-0 on Monday as the tie finished 1-1 on aggregate but won a penalty shoot-out to reach the 30 March final.
"We've won a game we fully deserved and we're going to Wembley," said Mathias.
"As staff we have given it a low profile in the last few weeks but now are there it is very exciting."
The Dons, currently top of League Two, will play either Grimsby or Morecambe in the final.
Jason Scotland had scored for the Swans from the penalty spot after Keith Andrews brought down Andy Robinson.
But Willy Gueret saved the decisive penalty from Scotland during the shoot-out - before Drewe Broughton scored the decisive kick from 12 yards.
"Willy's pulled out an absolutely fantastic save to win us the tie," added Mathias.
|
john the tinca
|
Walsall manager Richard Money is hoping to increase his striking options for the Saddlers' promotion run-in by signing Stefan Moore.
The 24-year-old former Aston Villa forward has played for Walsall's reserves following his release from Queens Park Rangers.
Money told BBC WM: "We like what we see and we're in some discussions, but nothing's been sorted yet.
"He's got great movement and a good understanding of how we want to play
|
john the tinca
|
Huddersfield Town midfielder Danny Schofield has asked to leave the League One club at the end of the season.
The 27-year-old has said that he wants a clean slate in his career after nine years at the club, making more than 280 appearances for the Terriers.
Town manager Andy Ritchie told the club website: "He has been a fantastic servant and ambassador for this club.
"He's a great lad and a great character and we are happy to support him in any way we can."
The club have also said that there has been no fall-out with the player.
Ritchie said: "Danny has asked to leave the club for personal reasons and because he wants a clean slate.
|
john the tinca
|
Carlisle United's promotion hopes have suffered a blow with the news that striker Joe Garner may not play again until next season.
A scan has revealed the 19-year-old damaged anterior cruciate ligaments during the 1-0 win at Crewe on Tuesday.
Carlisle manager John Ward told BBC Radio Cumbria: "Worst-case scenario, Joe could be ruled out for up to nine months.
"We think we are looking at a long time out for Joe and that's a massive blow."
He added: "It's as bad as it could be really."
Garner has been referred to a specialist in Bingley who will assess the full extent of the injury and determine whether the teenager will need surgery.
Meanwhile, 19-year-old defender Dan Kirkup has joined Blue Square North side Workington Reds on a month's loan.
Ward told the club website: "We told Dan that he was going to be made available in the summer, so he was aware of that from the outset.
"We were determined to try to help him get something set up, and we think this move will be good for him and for Workington.
"This gives Workington the chance to have a look at him, and then we can take it from there."
|
john the tinca
|
Bournemouth's players have agreed to help the club financially as the impact of administration continues.
A proportion of all squad salaries have been deferred for February after an agreement was reached with the Professional Footballers' Association.
"Nobody's complaining. It's helping the club financially and we're told it's not long until the takeover," captain Neil Young told BBC Radio Solent.
Bournemouth are hoping to find new buyers by the beginning of April.
The PFA are helping the club with payment of salaries in the short term.
Chief executive Gordon Taylor said: "The Cherries' players have been brilliant. It's important the public know that.
"The PFA are helping all they can at this time, until the future of the club is secured".
|
john the tinca
|
Brighton defender Tommy Elphick has said the club's fixtures in March will determine if they make the play-offs.
The schedule sees nine matches in 29 days including trips to Nottingham Forest, Walsall, Leeds and Carlisle.
"It's a game every three days. It is going to be hectic and mind over matter," Elphick told BBC Southern Counties Radio.
"We've got hard games away from home but I look round the dressing room and we have enough to make the play-offs."
|
john the tinca
|
A footballer with League One side Bristol Rovers has been arrested and released on bail following claims that a man was assaulted in a nightclub.
David Pipe was questioned in connection with an alleged attack in Park Street, in Bristol city centre, last Saturday.
The club, who have reached the quarter-finals of this year's FA Cup, had held their annual Valentine's Ball in a hotel nearby that night.
The midfielder, from South Wales, has been bailed pending further inquiries.
|
john the tinca
|
Crewe Alexandra's board of directors are bracing themselves for a hard time at the club's annual general meeting on Thursday evening.
Some tough questions are expected to be asked by fans and shareholders regarding the clubs finances.
Supporters want to know why the club have not invested in new players despite receiving a number of large transfer fees.
Crewe are currently languishing in the relegation zone in League One.
The club's struggle this season is in stark contrast to three years ago when they were top of the Championship.
But the sale of Dean Ashton to Norwich for £4m began their decline and the Railwaymen were relegated to League One in 2005/06.
The Alex's accounts for last season show them to have lost £38,294 despite selling strike Luke Varney to Charlton Athletic for £2m in May.
In particular fans will also be looking for an explanation on changes to Crewe's corporate structure which saw the formation of three new companies a year ago.
|
john the tinca
|
Doncaster defender James O'Connor is to have hernia surgery - after playing on through the pain in a bid to delay the operation until the summer.
"James has been having discomfort for some while," manager Sean O'Driscoll told the club's website.
"He's only been training a couple of times a week, and if the player isn't happy, there is no point in prolonging the decision to have surgery.
"James felt that his groin wasn't right, so he decided to get it done."
|
john the tinca
|
Gillingham manager Mark Stimson hopes their first win in eight games will build the supporters' confidence.
Stimson had been jeered by fans prior to Saturday's 1-0 victory against Huddersfield - which was the first time the Gills had won at home in 2008.
"It's important we win in front of our supporters. Then next time we come here against Yeovil I might have 55% with me and 45% against," said Stimson.
"That 5% can make a difference. I have total belief in what I want to do."
Stimson added: "Unfortunately it's taking longer than I'd like it to but the players are in on it, I'm definitely all for it and touch wood the chairman is as well."
Before the weekend's win Stimson told BBC Radio Kent he felt he only had the backing of half of the home fans at Priestfield.
|
john the tinca
|
Hartlepool United boss Danny Wilson is confident the club can escape relegation from League One but accepts they need to get wins on the board.
Mixed form has blighted the club's promotion hopes and Wilson is keen to see his side ease away from danger.
"It's that fourth-bottom place that everyone's going to be battling away from," he told BBC Tees.
"However you can get two wins and be up in eighth or ninth place. We need to target getting as high as possible."
|
john the tinca
|
Swindon boss Maurice Malpas was happy with his side's reaction to Saturday's 3-0 defeat by Walsall after they drew 2-2 at Oldham on Tuesday.
Lee Peacock opened and completed the scoring as the Robins claimed a point.
Malpas told BBC Radio Swindon: "It was a good reaction from Saturday, a good start to the game.
"It was a decent performance in the first half and that's the positive we have to take. In the second half our performance dipped."
The Scot added: "It was a proverbial game of two halves. In the first half we dominated and created the chances, although it's a pity we didn't take more.
|
john the tinca
|
Port Vale midfielder Shane Tudor has been ruled out for the rest of the season after a hamstring operation.
Manager Lee Sinnott told BBC Radio Stoke: "The problems that Shane has had could only be cured by surgery.
"The physio has told me that the recovery period is around four months so if that is correct then it looks as though Shane's season is over."
Tudor joined the Valiants in May but has made just eight league starts and has since been transfer listed.
"Shane's had a stop-start season but it's important that his rehabilitation is done correctly" said Sinnott.
|
john the tinca
|
Oldham boss John Sheridan insists the steep learning curve facing his young squad bodes well for the club's future.
The 2-2 home draw against Swindon left Latics eight points adrift of the League One play-off places but it gave the manager some optimism.
"Whether or not we get anywhere this season, the experience will stand our young players in good stead," he told BBC Radio Manchester.
"They'll start improving as players, they've just got to start believing."
He added: "I still see that they are young and naïve but I think we've got a good bunch of young players with six 20 or 21 year olds on the pitch at the end of the Swindon match."
"I do believe this season will do them the world of good."
|
john the tinca
|
Northampton midfielder Ryan Gilligan insists he is focused only on helping the club reach the play-offs, rather than agreeing a new contract.
Gilligan told Northampton's website: "I've been given a run of games and hopefully I'm proving my worth.
"My contract is up here in the summer but I think this club is going places and I want to be part of that.
"I don't think contracts have been mentioned but that shows how focused we are on trying to reach the play-offs."
|
john the tinca
|
Luton Town are close to being taken over by a consortium fronted by TV presenter Nick Owen after a deal was reached with the club's administrators.
The Luton Town Football Club 2020 Limited, led by Owen, has had an offer for the club conditionally accepted.
Contracts were exchanged before Luton's 1-1 draw with Millwall on Tuesday and the Football League is expected to confirm the deal in the next few weeks.
"We are on the way to being owners," Owen told BBC Radio 5 Live.
"The bottom line is that Luton Town Football Club is secure and will live to fight another 100 years."
|
john the tinca
|
Marcus Bignot knows how crucial avoiding relegation can prove to be.
He captained QPR to Championship survival last season, paving the way for a takeover by a group led by Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone.
It is an achievement Bignot is deeply proud of, arguing that the Formula One magnates would not have bought a League One club.
Now the defender is playing a key role in Millwall's battle to avoid the calamity of relegation to League Two.
And he believes beating the drop could also give the Lions, who are currently 18th in League One, a platform for the future.
|
john the tinca
|
Norwich chairman Roger Munby has pledged to support manager Glenn Roeder's summer spending plans.
Dion Dublin retires at the end of the season and six loan players are due to return to their parent clubs - necessitating extensive rebuilding.
"It's a matter of absolute commitment," Munby told the club's website.
"The board will do everything in its possible power to meet the challenge Glenn will impose on us when he comes to us in the summer."
Roeder was appointed as manager of the Championship club in October with the club struggling in the lower reaches of the table.
But the club are now 12th in the table, seven points off a play-off place.
Regardless of the division Norwich are in next season, Munby is aware of the need for a major overhaul.
He added: "The whole squad itself needs to be built and enhanced for next season and it is a big challenge."
|
john the tinca
|
Chairman Steve Wharton says Scunthorpe are waiting on a decision from the local council before they can proceed on any plans for a new stadium.
"My guess is there is a 50-50 chance of it going ahead," he told a fans' forum.
"The council have until the end of Aptil to decide what their preferred option is for planning applications on the new housing development."
The Iron only moved to their current Glanford Park home - which has a capacity of 9,088 - in 1988.
They had previously played at the Old Show Ground, which held 25,000.
The move to Glanford Park was the first time a new Football League stadium had been built since the end of the Second World War - although many clubs have moved home in the subsequent 20 years
|
john the tinca
|
Colchester are looking for goalkeeping cover after reserve keeper Mark Cousins was taken ill with appendicitis.
Manager Geraint Williams hopes to sign a replacement before the weekend.
"There is the possibility of going without a keeper on the bench, but we are looking at bringing someone in as cover for Dean Gerken," he said.
Meanwhile, teenage striker Tom Webb is set to leave Layer Road to join Ryman Premier Division side Folkestone Invicta on a month's loan.
|
john the tinca
|
Southampton defender Claus Lundekvam is battling to save his career after suffering a recurrence of the injury that has sidelined him this season.
The Norwegian tore ankle tendons during a routine running test, and is now considering his future after tests revealed the extent of the damage.
"It is incredible bad luck that has set me back to square one," said the former Saints club captain.
"There is no chance of playing again this season."
Lundekvam added: "The ankle has been through a lot over the years and there has been a lot of wear and tear which is stopping it healing properly and I don't want to push it too far.
"I now have to decide where to go from here and also to consider my future life because I don't want to be walking with a limp."
Lundekvam, now 35, has made over 400 appearances for the club since his move back in 1996 from Brann Bergen for just £350,000.
He originally injured the ankle in the final game of last season at home to Southend.
|
john the tinca
|
Leicester City have completed the loan signing of midfielder Lee Hendrie from Championship rivals Sheffield United.
The 30-year-old has agreed a deal until the end of the season and becomes boss Ian Holloway's eighth signing since taking charge at the Walkers Stadium.
Hendrie could make his debut for the Foxes at Cardiff on Saturday.
He enjoyed 13 years at Aston Villa, but spent much of last season on loan at Stoke City before moving to Bramall Lane last summer.
|
john the tinca
|
Leicester City have completed the loan signing of midfielder Lee Hendrie from Championship rivals Sheffield United.
The 30-year-old has agreed a deal until the end of the season and becomes boss Ian Holloway's eighth signing since taking charge at the Walkers Stadium.
Hendrie could make his debut for the Foxes at Cardiff on Saturday.
He enjoyed 13 years at Aston Villa, but spent much of last season on loan at Stoke City before moving to Bramall Lane last summer.
|
john the tinca
|
Charlton have completed the signing of young Chelsea winger Scott Sinclair on loan until the end of the season.
The 18-year-old, who has already had successful loan spells at Plymouth and QPR, goes straight into the squad to face Sheffield United on Saturday.
Sinclair told Charlton's website: "I'm really excited to be here. I have come here to get more experience. I want to keep playing and get some goals."
Sinclair has made seven appearances for Chelsea this season.
|
john the tinca
|
Charlton have completed the signing of young Chelsea winger Scott Sinclair on loan until the end of the season.
The 18-year-old, who has already had successful loan spells at Plymouth and QPR, goes straight into the squad to face Sheffield United on Saturday.
Sinclair told Charlton's website: "I'm really excited to be here. I have come here to get more experience. I want to keep playing and get some goals."
Sinclair has made seven appearances for Chelsea this season.
|
john the tinca
|
Bristol City have announced the biggest sponsorship deal in their history after signing an undisclosed deal with DAS.
The legal insurer, who sponsored the club's shirts between 1999 and 2005, will have their logo on the club's jerseys for the next two seasons.
Ashton Gate Stadium Ltd managing director Doug Harman revealed to the club website: "There is an option for a further year to be signed."
The Robins will unveil their new home kit for next season in March.
|
john the tinca
|
Three men have been banned from every football match in England and Wales for three years after trouble flared between Coventry City and Preston fans.
Steward Martin Harris, 51, suffered a heart attack an hour after dealing with the violence outside the Ricoh Arena last September.
The men, all from Coventry and aged between 18 and 20, admitted using threatening behaviour.
They were prosecuted after police studied CCTV footage of the trouble.
Sean Teeling, 18, of Colvelly Road, Wyken, Michael Freeman, 20, of Harefield Road, Stoke, and Daniel Rampton, 20, of Tomellis Court, Exhall, were ordered to pay a total of £430 in costs.
The trio were also given community service orders by magistrates in Coventry on Wednesday.
Teeling was also given a 12-week prison sentence suspended for a year after admitting an unconnected racist assault in January.
|
john the tinca
|
Burnley manager Owen Coyle believes Mark Randall showed his true potential in Tuesday's win over Coventry.
The 18-year-old midfielder, who signed on loan from Arsenal in the January transfer window, came on as a second- half substitute in the 2-0 win.
Coyle told BBC Radio Lancashire: "He's shown when he's on form he can play.
"He's got a natural flow to his play, a great eye for a pass and we think we can enhance his game and he can go back to Arsenal a better player."
|
john the tinca
|
Ipswich academy goalkeeper Andrew Plummer and midfielder Ollie Fenn have been told their contracts are not being renewed at the end of the season.
Plummer, 18, is going on trial at Blue Square Premier club Oxford United.
Nineteen-year-old Fenn is joining Eircom League side Galway United as part of a new partnership with Ipswich.
Ipswich boss Jim Magilton told the club website: "They are smashing lads and we will do everything we can to help them take that next step forward."
Fenn's trial with Galway comes within a few days of the Irish club training in Ipswich and playing a friendly against a young Town side.
Magilton continued: "Ollie impressed Galway and they have asked him over to Ireland.
"Andy has not played enough reserve football and needs the chance to get his career going. Hopefully that will happen at Oxford."
|
john the tinca
|
Wolves midfielder Darren Potter turned down the chance to leave in January - to fight for his Molineux future.
"Before the window, when Darren wasn't playing, I asked him if he wanted to go on the list," Wolves boss Mick McCarthy told the club's website.
"He said he didn't want to go anywhere and since then he's been brilliant.
"He wanted to fight for his place, he's shown that and played really well. He has deserved to play in recent weeks and has really stood out."
The 23-year-old former Liverpool reserve, a regular for most of last season and a big part of Wolves' revival over the second half of the season, lost his place at the end of August.
But, having since been used as a bench player, he has started Wolves' last two games.
|
john the tinca
|
Sixteen men have been charged after 30 arrests before the Sheffield Wednesday v Cardiff City game on Saturday.
South Yorkshire Police said all are believed to be Cardiff fans and they were detained after a city centre incident an hour before kick-off.
The 16 are accused of public order offences and each has been served with an application for a football banning order.
They are due to appear in court in March.
There was no reported disorder at the Hillsborough Stadium, said police.
Of the other 14 arrested, one man was released and bailed pending further enquiries and 10 men were released without charge.
Two men gave witness statements and were released and one man was given a caution for drunk and disorderly behaviour.
|
john the tinca
|
Preston boss Alan Irvine has demanded his players build on the performance they showed in the 2-0 victory over league leaders Stoke on Tuesday.
The victory moved North End out of the Championship's bottom three and Irvine wants the same commitment against Crystal Palace this Saturday.
"This is what I now expect from the players," he told BBC Radio Lancashire.
"They know that there are people sitting on the bench who are waiting for a chance to get back in."
|
john the tinca
|
Plymouth Argyle's youngsters lost 4-1 to Manchester City in the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals at Home Park on Tuesday.
City took the lead through Danny Sturridge after 22 minutes and doubled the tally thanks to captain Ben Mee's volley 15 minutes later.
David Ball got City's third after 64 minutes and substitute Alex Nimely-Tchuimeni made it four late on.
But the 2,417 Argyle fans did had something to cheer when Jarred Stevens got a consolation in the 91st minute.
It was a step too far for Argyle, who had already disposed of three Premier Academy sides - Birmingham City, Portsmouth and Coventry City - in previous rounds.
Argyle were looking to make the semi-finals of the FA Youth Cup for the first time in 54 years.
On that occasion they lost to Manchester United as the fledgling Busby Babes went on to win the trophy.
|
john the tinca
|
On-loan striker Luke Moore has said he is hoping to get the goals that get West Bromwich Albion promoted.
The 22-year-old Aston Villa man told BBC WM: "I just want to play and score as many goals as I can. All footballers are the same and I am no different.
"It's going to be a big job to get promoted but we're going to work as hard as we can."
Moore could make his first start under Tony Mowbray as West Brom take on Plymouth at the Hawthorns on Saturday.
|
john the tinca
|
Blackburn manager Mark Hughes has admitted he is delighted that defender Andre Ooijer will remain at Ewood Park next season.
Rovers exercised their right to extend the 33-year-old Dutchman's original two-year contract for a further twelve months earlier this week.
Hughes told BBC Radio Lancashire: "It was always our intention to take the option up.
"He's had some bad injuries but has bounced back and he's a big influence."
Ooijer captained Rovers in recent matches in the absence of club captain Ryan Nelsen, but missed last weekend's 4-1 victory over Bolton with a hamstring strain.
"He'll say his piece and nobody takes exception to it because he's got vast experience and knows what he's talking about," Hughes added.
"Take away the opening weeks of Andre's time here, which I take the blame for because I threw him in at the deep end, he's been an outstanding player.
|
john the tinca
|
Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson has vented his anger at the Football Association over Jeremie Aliadiere's failed appeal against his suspension.
Gibson is furious that the FA instead added an extra match to the three-game ban which followed Aliadiere's sending off in Saturday's defeat at Liverpool.
He told BBC Sport: "We could have taken it on the chin if the appeal had simply been rejected.
"But to extend the ban by a further match, I find absolutely perverse."
Gibson's comments come after Middlesbrough accused the FA of double standards on Wednesday and took offence at the verdict that their appeal was "frivolous".
Boro chief executive Keith Lamb said Chelsea's appeal against Michael Essien's three-match ban was rejected but not thought "frivolous".
|
john the tinca
|
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has aired his frustration over the side's continued failure to challenge for the Premier League title.
The Reds are 17 points behind leaders Arsenal and have a fight to take fourth place for a Champions League spot.
"I'm pretty gutted every time I look at the table and see the gap between us and Arsenal at the top," the 27-year-old told LFC magazine.
"I'm getting tired of saying the same thing over and over again."
Liverpool are still in the Champions League and hold a 2-0 lead over Inter Milan after the first leg of their last 16 tie.
But they have again flattered to deceive in their quest to land the title for the first time since 1990 and are currently fifth in the top flight.
|
john the tinca
|
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has said Eduardo's positive outlook has helped Martin Taylor get over the events of last weekend.
Taylor visited Eduardo in hospital after his tackle last Saturday left the Arsenal striker with a fractured leg and dislocated ankle.
"Martin's been buoyed by the level of support he's had in the game," McLeish told BBC WM.
"He's been really brightened by Eduardo's approach to the whole thing
|
john the tinca
|
Manchester City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson says Micah Richards faces six weeks out after undergoing an operation on damaged cartilage in his right knee.
The 19-year-old defender, who travelled to London for the surgery on Wednesday, will definitely miss England's friendly with France on 26 March.
Eriksson said: "Our medical people say Micah is a quick healer but he is still likely to be out for about six weeks."
Richards began his rehabilitation programme on Thursday.
The injury is a recurrence of one which kept him out of two matches earlier this season.
Club doctor Mark Whitaker said: "The operation has been successful and the medical team will monitor his progress."
|
john the tinca
|
The investment firm co-owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov has confirmed it has no current intention of an Arsenal takeover for six months.
His investment vehicle Red and White Holdings said Mr Usmanov would commit to this position for that period.
Earlier in February Red and White revealed it had increased its stake in Arsenal football club to 24%.
It says it has funds to increase its stake, but would not breach the 30% limit which would trigger a formal bid.
Mr Usmanov would have to go ahead with a formal takeover offer if his stake exceeded that size.
|
john the tinca
|
Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has been arrested and cautioned by police for common assault.
The former England international, 30, was questioned on Wednesday about a roadside argument with a man near his Crosby home on Tuesday.
Carragher had been on his way to training at the club's Melwood ground at the time.
The assault was reported to Merseyside Police by a witness to the incident involving the Bootle-born player.
Later that day the alleged victim reported Liverpool's vice-captain to officers who arranged an appointment to interview Carragher.
Common assault can include anything from spitting to shoving.
A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "We can confirm that a 30-year-old man from the Blundellsands area received a police caution for common assault in relation to an incident on Liverpool Road, Crosby, on Tuesday February 26."
A spokesman for Liverpool FC declined to comment.
|
john the tinca
|
Sven-Goran Eriksson is optimistic about Manchester City's future after owner Thaksin Shinawatra went back to Thailand to face corruption charges.
The ex-Thai PM returned to his homeland on Thursday after 17 months in exile.
Thaksin is hoping to clear his name and reclaim £800m of frozen assets, some of which could boost City's coffers.
"When I speak to him, he always tells me to find the right players. And, if we find them, we will do something in the summer," said the City boss.
Eriksson has been impressed by the financial support that Thaksin, 58, has provided since he completed his £81.6m takeover of City in July 2007.
The former England boss explained: "He has already done what he promised for us in the summer and in January.
"I don't think his support for the club has anything to do with him going to Thailand, and I don't know whether this trip is going to make things better or worse for us, but I am happy for him.
|
john the tinca
|
Tom Hicks says he is prepared to block any attempt by co-owner George Gillett to offload his stake in Liverpool.
Reports suggest Gillett may be ready to sell his shares in the club.
But Hicks told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram newspaper: "Not only am I not going to sell, my partner cannot sell without my approval.
"So I kind of have the ability to determine the outcome of what is going to happen, and I am right in the middle of that."
He added: "For a lot of reasons I can't discuss, I haven't been able to fix it yet. But I am preparing to be in a position to fix it."
|
john the tinca
|
Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano is on the verge of finalising a permanent deal with Liverpool.
The 23-year-old, whose contract is owned by the Media Sports Investments consortium, moved to Anfield on loan from West Ham just over a year ago.
Mascherano can sign for Liverpool outside the transfer window because he does not belong to another club.
"Maybe this week or next week we will be able to say everything's finished," Mascherano told Liverpool's website.
"We can't say it just yet but hopefully in a few days everything will be OK," added the Argentine, who is believed to be valued at about £18m.
"There are no problems with the fee or with the contract, it's just getting the papers finished."
|
john the tinca
|
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill says Scott Carson's permanent transfer to the club may yet be scuppered.
The 22-year-old joined on a season-long loan from Liverpool but O'Neill has revealed that the decision over whether the keeper stays is out of his hands.
"There are a number of parties involved and things could be thwarted if Liverpool decide they want him back," O'Neill told his club's website.
"He's on loan and Liverpool haven't changed their stance in any aspect."
Carson's form has come under scrutiny since his high-profile blunder in England's infamous Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia.
But O'Neill has no doubts about his quality and has been delighted with his performances.
"He is a young kid who is learning and wanting to do very, very well," he added.
"He has got a good attitude and I have been very pleased with him."
|
john the tinca
|
Manchester United defender Gary Neville played 60 minutes for the club's reserve team on Tuesday in his latest attempt to return from injury.
The 33-year-old right-back has not played first-team football for nearly a year and has been plagued by calf and ankle problems over the past 11 months.
Neville has made a number of comebacks only to suffer further setbacks.
United's second-string lost 2-0 to their Liverpool counterparts with goals from Xabi Alonso and Harry Kewell.
|
john the tinca
|
Coventry Sphinx will prepare for Saturday's FA Vase quarter-final against Kirkham & Wesham at Manchester United's Carrington training centre.
Sphinx deployed a similar tactic ahead of their victory away to Stanway Rovers in the previous round.
"Our contact at West Ham, who helped us out in the last round, sorted it for us," manager Paul Charnley told BBC Coventry & Warwickshire.
"It's another aspect of the game we have to look forward to."
|
john the tinca
|
Manchester United reserve team player Michael Barnes has joined Inverness Caledonian Thistle with a view to securing a permanent deal.
The 19-year-old winger will be released from his Old Trafford contract in the summer having progressed through the youth team to the reserve squad.
Barnes joined United in December 2005 and made his first team debut in 2006.
According to the Inverness club website, he has been an integral part of the United reserve side.
|
|
|
