Wednesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester United are the latest club to track Bolton defender Gary Cahill. Chelsea, Juventus and AC Milan are also interested in the 23-year-old.(The Sun)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is keen on Atletico Madrid forward Keko, who has been likened to Liverpool striker Fernando Torres.(Daily Mirror) 
Tottenham and Arsenal are two of the clubs willing to offer midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker a way out of Aston Villa following his bust up with manager Martin O'Neill. (Daily Star)
Hull boss Phil Brown is desperate to land Sol Campbell in the January transfer window, following the former Arsenal defender's decision to leave Notts County last week.(Daily Mirror) 
Japanese midfielder Keisuke Honda, who plays for Dutch club VVV Venlo, is wanted by Everton.(Daily Mirror) 
Aston Villa are deciding whether to make a January bid for midfielder Milan Jovanovic, whose contract with Standard Liege expires next summer.(Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Aston Villa defender Curtis Davies is set to land a new contract, despite being out for five months with a shoulder injury.(The Sun) 
Liverpool's American owners, George Gillett and Tom Hicks, say they are ready to water down their control in the club. (Various) 
Birmingham City chairman David Gold is set to lose his job at the club if Carson Yeung completes his takeover.(The Sun) 
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce says Anton Ferdinand still has a future at the club, despite the defender being dropped for the victory over Wolves at the weekend. (Daily Star) 
Hull midfielder Jimmy Bullard says he is fit and ready for action after recovering from knee ligament surgery earlier this year. (The Sun)
Manager Fabio Capello wants to make sure England's 2018 World Cup bid does not come under scrutiny by refusing to treat the qualifiers against the Ukraine and Belarus as practice matches.(Daily Express) 
Manchester United striker Michael Owen says he is determined to be part of England's World Cup campaign in South Africa next year. (The Times)

AND FINALLY

Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez has explained his reasons for not celebrating his goals against West Ham on Monday, saying that "part of me will always be a Hammer". However, following the treatment he received at Old Trafford recently, the Argentine says he will not extend the same courtesy if he scores against his former club Manchester United. (Daily Mail)
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Tuesday night

Cardiff 6 - 1 Derby

Four-goal Michael Chopra fired Cardiff back to form in a crushing victory.
Peter Whittingham got the first in an early sign that Derby's offside trap would be exposed, then he set up Chopra for his first strike since August. 
Rob Hulse gave the Rams hope straight after the break, before the division's top-scorer Chopra took over, first latching on to Chris Burke's back-heel. 
Stephen McPhail set up the hat-trick, a sweet chip, McPhail playing a part in Chris Burke's goal and Chopra's closer. 
The Bluebirds had previously lost five of their last six matches in all competitions, an awful run that had seen the early season Championship leaders slip to ninth spot in the league. 
But Derby provided the perfect opposition, having lost seven of their last nine away league games. 
McPhail made a huge impression on his return from suspension, replacing Wales midfielder Joe Ledley who was banned for the game.
Cardiff manager Dave Jones:
"Chopra's movement and finishing was top class and he showed us all what a good player he is. 
"We had a lot of the ball and used it well but results like that don't come very often and we have to enjoy it while we can.
Derby manager Nigel Clough:
"I am very disappointed at the way we let the goals in particularly after getting back into the game straight after half time.
.

Fiorentina 2 - 0 Liverpool

Stevan Jovetic was Liverpool's tormentor as he scored twice in Fiorentina's surprise win over the Reds in their Champions League Group E tie.
The teenager pierced the visitors' offside trap and slotted past Pepe Reina to put his side deservedly ahead. 
He added a second when he diverted in a powerful Juan Vargas strike. 
Liverpool had chances to get back into the game but Lucas Leiva put a free header high and Fernando Torres skied a close-range volley. 
The Reds did not lose away from home in the Champions League last season but were undone by a poor first-half showing and an inspired Viola at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
Liverpool had also found the net in their previous 21 Champions League matches and their failure to do so against the Serie A side saw them miss out on Bayern Munich's record scoring run of 22 games.
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Fiorentina - Liverpool

Fiorentina are performing well in domain Serie A. The main objective for this season is a spot for Champions League next year, they occupy 4th place, play well so far and it seems that target is reachable. At their home, Artemio Franchi, have all three wins (Palermo, Cagliari and Sampdoria) without a conceded goal. For domain frames, Viola have more than decent squad. Safe defence that doesn’t make too much errors, tough midfield and some quality strikers in front. But, also face two big problems. First, criterion that referees have in European games is much different than in Italy. Tougher tackles and less number of fouls usually put Italians in subordinate position. Especially when they play against English who are physically much stronger. Viola will have a lots of problems only to bring the ball on the opposite half and their biggest hope is some free kick, or individual efforts of their strikers. And here we come to the second big problem. Top striker and key of the keys, Alberto Gilardino, begins a two-match ban for elbowing Toulalan in Fiorentina's defeat by Lyon (0-1) two weeks ago. So, in front could be Adrian Mutu (in depression because the “Chelsea case”) and Stevan Jovetic, young Montenegrin striker who plays in excellent shape lately. So, free kicks and Jovetic will be the biggest (only, I think) threats to the visitors.

After disaster start in Premier League, Liverpool have been consolidated and started to play like title contender should. They’re in the run of six competitive wins in a row with 13 goals scored in last three Premier League games! Fernando Torres scored a hat-trick in Saturday's 6-1 victory over Hull and successfully sent a message to Florence. Rafael Benitez without a doubt wants to secure a progress in group as soon as possible and get a possibility to play with the fringe players and rest his keys. On the other hand, Liverpool still haven’t played against second strongest team in the group Olympique Lyonnais and possible failure in Italy could complicate the situation. This game has a big weight for the Reds and although they’ll have some hard games in next weeks in Premier (trip to Stamford at Sunday is the first) I don’t think Rafa will rest anybody tonight. Only missings will be midfielders Javier Mascherano (sick) and Yossi Benayoun who picked up a leg injury against Hull. The chance should finally be given to Ryan Babel, while Daniel Agger could return in defence line. 

Considering all facts that can be important for a win here, I give a clear advantage to Liverpool in all of them, except home atmosphere at Artemio Franchi. So, main question is how serious visitors will approach to this game. Win would open the door from the next round, while other outcome would bring a trouble and I think they’ll be very serious. I see 1.80 as a reasonable odd for this level of risk and everything more accept as a gift. Pinnacle offer 2.00. Away win.

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Tuesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Fulham boss Roy Hodgson is considering a £3m move for Aston Villa's 25-year-old midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker in the January transfer window. (Daily Mirror) 
Sporting Lisbon goalkeeper Rui Patricio, 21, is a target of Manchester United, according to the player's agent. United are keen to recruit a new keeper, with Edwin van der Sar set to retire at the end of the season. (The Sun) 
Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce is resigned to losing Franco Di Santo in January. The 20-year-old Argentine striker is on loan at Ewood Park from Chelsea and Allardyce expects the Blues, who have been hit with a transfer ban, to recall their player. (Daily Star) 
Arsenal's Mexican striker Carlos Vela is a shock transfer target for Spanish side Xerez. The 20-year-old fears he could miss next year's World Cup unless he earns a regular starting place. (The Sun) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole is ready to return to Champions League action for the Blues against Apoel Nicosia in Cyprus on Wednesday. Fellow midfielders Michael Ballack and Jon Mikel Obi are out injured, so Cole is set to make only his second start in 10 months after a knee injury. (The Sun) 
Roy Keane has conceded that he will be sacked as Ipswich manager if he does not improve results on the pitch. Town are second from bottom in the Championship and are without a win in their opening nine league games - the worst start to a season in the club's history.(The Sun) 
Fulham winger Damien Duff's calf injury is not as bad as first feared. The 30-year-old limped out of Saturday's 1-0 home defeat by Arsenal after only nine minutes and will miss Thursday's Europa League match with Basel. However, he is expected to be fit for the visit of Roma on 22 October. (Daily Express)

AND FINALLY

Burnley fan Jason Taylor is being forced to travel 50 miles to watch his team play Blackburn next month, despite living round the corner from Rovers' Ewood Park ground. Clarets fans have been told that they must report to Turf Moor four hours before kick-off and travel the 13 miles to Blackburn by coach. After the game, the transport then returns them to Turf Moor. The move comes in the wake of recent crowd trouble at the derby game between West Ham and Millwall at Upton Park. (The Sun)
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Cardiff City - Derby County (tuesday)

After very promising season start that announced a battle for promotion, Cardiff have now lost four of their last five Championship matches and have dropped out of the top six. All started with underestimation of Doncaster (0-2 on the road), then Newcastle (0-1 home), QPR (0-2 home) and last one vs. Sheff.Wed. (1-3 away). It’s symptomatic they conceded most of those goals in the opening period of the game, or the second half. Manager Dave Jones talks about inconsistency, more likely it’s lack of confidence. At last round they improved the performance, two goals for Cardiff were disallowed (public opinion is one was clear), big defensive errors, two goals at the start of both periods and one more defeat that caused alarms started ringing at City Stadium. So, if they want to keep their dream about promotion, have to wake up and stop the losing streak. Better opponent for that they probably couldn’t wish. Beside long time injured Ross McCormack and Kelvin Etuhu, boss Jones can not count on midfielder Joe Ledley who got a red card at Sheffield and unfit right-back Kevin McNaughton. Skipper Stephen McPhail returns in the squad.

Like the hosts, Derby also had a bad run of results with four consecutive defeats (Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United, Barnsley and Crystal Palace). Manager Nigel Clough is stubborn with his 5-4-1 formation that still hasn’t been well accepted from the players. Two started wins against clubs from the bottom side of the table (Peterborough and Plymouth) gave some hope for a bright future, but mentioned bad run brought the push the problems on the surface. In the previous round, they finally noticed all three points against Bristol City (1-0). Visitors from Bristol were at least equal 55 minutes, then defender Jamie McCombe got two yellow cards for two minutes. Rams started to dominate and thankfully to Gary Teale’s late strike noticed a win. However, team is consisted of mediocre players who shouldn’t be capable to achieve anything more than middle of the table. And some experienced players like Lee Hendrie and Paul Dickov haven’t brought anything positive. The Rams can get something from the games against bottom clubs, or sometimes to surprise “middle class”, but I doubt they can cause serious problems to the top Championship clubs (like raging Cardiff). New on-loan signing, Swedish defender Fredrik Stoor, will probably make his debut.

This is not a “to be or not to be” game for the hosts, but another failure would seriously shake their title ambitions. Following their statements to the press, it seems they’re all conscious of the situation and I expect the well response and convincing win. Pinnacle offer 1.92. Home win and handicap as a gamble.

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Monday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce is monitoring Tottenham right-back Alan Hutton ahead of the January transfer window.(Daily Mirror) 
Wigan are interested in Scunthorpe goalkeeper Joe Murphy after turning down the chance to former Sunderland keeper Jurgen Macho, who is a free agent after leaving AEK Athens. (Daily Mirror) 
Cardiff manager Dave Jones is set to hijack Coventry's bid to sign Wolves striker Sam Vokes, whose loan deal with the Sky Blues has yet to go through.(Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Notts County executive chairman Peter Trembling has conceded he does not know the identities of all the private investors who are bankrolling the club. (The Sun) 
Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie has told owner Sulaiman Al Fahim to prove that a £50m loan has been organised to keep the club out of administration. (The Sun) 
Manchester United Nani winger will turn to his former team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo for advice after being substituted against Stoke on Saturday following a poor display. Nani will ring Ronaldo - now at Real Madrid - before Wednesday's game with Wolfsburg and added: "Cristiano and I talk a lot."(The Sun) 
Arsenal winger Theo Walcott, who has been out of action since June because of a lower back injury, has told boss Arsene Wenger he is fit to start Tuesday's Champions League match against Olympiakos. (The Sun) 
Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka has declared he is completely happy at the Blues and stated: "Chelsea is the first club I can call home." Anelka's former clubs include Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Bolton and Real Madrid. (The Sun) 
League Two strugglers Darlington are lining up former Wigan boss Paul Jewell to fill their vacant managerial post.(Daily Mirror) 

AND FINALLY

Bolton boss Gary Megson has revealed South Korean star Chung-Yong Lee practises martial art Tai Chi first thing in the morning before training. Megson said: "I got in early and was eating a bacon sarnie when I saw this guy doing some serious stretching in the car park. I didn't realise it was Lee." (Daily Mirror)
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Sunday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Former Notts County defender Sol Campbell could be offered a route back into football by struggling Premier League club Hull.(Sunday Mirror) 
Or, Campbell was in talks with championship side Ipswich hours after walking out on Notts County on Wednesday.(Sunday Express) 
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has demanded £45m from the club's owners to sign Valencia forward David Villa. (Sunday People)
Arsenal are increasingly resigned to losing captain Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona in the summer.(Sunday Express) 
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp will launch a January transfer bid for West Ham defender Matthew Upson.(News of the World) 
Redknapp is also keen on Bolton centre-half Gary Cahill but will have to come up with £20m to land the Englishman. (Sunday People) 
Manchester United have been given first option on signing Sporting Lisbon keeper Rui Patricio.(News of the World) 
Or, Manchester United will offer Inter Milan £20m for Brazilian keeper Juilo Cesar. (Sunday People) 
Everton manager David Moyes hopes to sign Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson for £6m in January. (News of the World) 
But, Middlesbrough will offer Johnson a massive 800% pay rise to tempt the 22-year-old to stay at the Championship club. (Sunday People) 
Aston Villa are keen on Sunderland keeper Marton Fulop as he looks for a long-term replacement for Brad Friedel. (Sunday People)
Arsenal's 19-year-old right-back Gavin Hoyte is wanted by Derby County on loan. (Sunday People) 
Cameroon midfielder Modeste M'Bami has snubbed an offer from Wigan of a one-month contract at the club. (Sunday People)
Everton are battling it out with Bolton for Maccabi Haifa's 23-year-old midfielder Lior Rafaelov. (Sunday Mirror) 
Newcastle and Middlesbrough are fighting to sign West Brom defender Abdoulaye Meite on loan. (Sunday Mirror)
Wigan look to be favourites to capture £2m-rated SK Brann winger Erik Huseklepp. (Sunday Mirror) 
Arsenal striker Carlos Vela could be in line for a surprise move to Spanish club Xerez in the January transfer window. (Sunday Mirror)

OTHER GOSSIP

Former Celtic manager Gordon Strachan is favourite to succeed under-fire Paul Hart at Portsmouth. (Daily Star Sunday) 
Sven-Goran Eriksson is ready to move from his role as Notts County's director of football and replace current manager Ian McPharland.(Sunday Expresss) 
Meanwhile, Sol Campbell claims that broken promises and the failure to land big-name players were the reasons behind his early Notts County exit. (News of the World) 
In his explosive new book, former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke claims a bust-up with former manager Sir Alex Ferguson led him to drink.(News of the World) 
Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has been warned by specialist knee surgeon Dr Richard Steadman that he may never recover from the tendinitis that has kept him out of action for a year.(News of the World) 
Liverpool co-owner George Gillett is in talks with an Arab prince to sell a 25% stake in the club for £125m.(Sunday Mirror) 
Blackburn striker El Hadji Diouf and team-mate Ryan Nelson were involved in a dressing room punch-up following last Sunday's 3-0 defeat by Everton.(News of the World) 
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson, who is out of contract at the end of the season, is yet to be offered a new deal by Craven Cottage chiefs. (Sunday People) 

AND FINALLY

Manchester United keeper Edwin van der Sar says he will not retire from football until he has won the Champions League again.(Sunday Mirror) 
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed how he placed a bet at the start of the season on former Old Trafford winger Cristiano Ronaldo to be the top scorer in Spain at new club Real Madrid.(Mail on Sunday)
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Ipswich 0-4 Newcastle

Kevin Nolan scored a hat-trick as Newcastle thrashed Ipswich to move two points clear at the top of the Championship table on an afternoon rich in drama and emotion at Portman Road.
There were generous tributes to former Ipswich and Newcastle manager Sir Bobby Robson before the match and during half-time. 
But three goals in four first-half minutes from the visiting team ensured that it would be another miserable afternoon on the pitch for Roy Keane's team. 
Nolan opened the scoring with a header and quickly added to that with a composed finish. Ryan Taylor's free-kick ended the quick-fire scoring spree and ensured the game was over as a contest by the break. 
Nolan's second header of the match shortly after the restart completed his hat-trick and left Keane looking furious as he watched from the home dug-out. 
Ipswich have yet to win in the Championship this season and have now made their worst start to a league campaign - a sequence that increases the pressure on Keane to rapidly find a winning formula.
Ipswich boss Roy Keane:
"Clearly we are disappointed. We started alright but the first goal knocked our confidence. 
"You have to persevere and encourage players. 
"We have given teams a helping hand and we can't keep doing it. 
"I'm sure Kevin Nolan thought it was Christmas with the first goal and before we knew it we were three down. We certainly have to defend better. 
"I don't like losing football matches, the expectations are high but we have got to deal with it and get on with it." 
Newcastle caretaker manager Chris Hughton: 
"I am delighted with the approach with which we went into the game. From start to finish we were excellent. 
"It speaks volumes for Kevin Nolan that a midfielder has scored a hat-trick. He has always been with one with an eye for goal 
"The lads showed a great desire. We were fortunate enough to get the goals early enough to let us go on."
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Ipswich Town - Newcastle United

After eight rounds, Tractor Boys still don’t have a win and from pre-season play-off contenders became a team that probably will struggle to avoid relegation. Popular Keano entered the season with very solid team, but also faced with the riot in the dressing room and some players are written off. Lately, team has been showing the signs of progress, but it seems they still play under the pressure of big expectations, especially at their Portman Road. At their home, three draws (Leicester, Preston and N.Forest) and one defeat (C. Palace), so far. From these clubs, only Preston perhaps could be considered as a top Championship team. Today’s opponent is the strongest so far, pressure permanently raises and in case of convincing defeat Keano’s position would be everything but safe. Midfielder Jack Colback and striker Tamas Priskin are pushing for starts after coming off the bench to score in last weekend's 3-3 draw at Doncaster. Defender Gareth McAuley is back after a ban but is doubtful with a calf injury. The Blues have only won one of their last nine games against Newcastle in all competitions and if lose they will have made their worst ever start to a Football League season.

Newcastle came in the season with big turbulences within the club. One period nobody knew who will be the club’s owner, manager or which players remain in the club. But all these concerns haven’t affected the players too much. Magpies have noticed six wins (draw and a defeat) in opening eight rounds and occupied a spot that guarantees a direct promotion. Beside that, they made the best defense record in league, keeping five clean sheets and leaking only four goals. However, team noticed two consecutive defeats on the road. First, faced with big injury problems, Newcastle weren’t capable to resist against Blackpool (1-2), than in Cup encounter with just two regular players lost vs. Peterborough (0-2). Those two games showed it won’t be as easy as it seemed in one moment. Players are fully focused again and situation with the injuries becomes better. Marlon Harewood came from Aston Villa on loan deal to substitute long time injured key striker Shola Ameobi. Excellent Argentinean Jonas Gutierrez won’t be in action for a while. Midfielders Joey Barton (foot) and Danny Guthrie (one-game ban) also won’t appear today, while full-back Danny Simpson is doubtful with an ankle injury. But, manager Chris Hughton has a “long bench” and these missings should be adequate covered. 

For home side it is obvious even now, there won’t be any promotion race this season and the middle of the table could be the highest achievement. Some improvements are visible, but I doubt it can be upgraded against maybe the best league team. For me, Newcastle are the big favorite here. Away win should be treated as a gamble bet, but additional covering a draw seems as a very safe option. High stake.

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Saturday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce may decide to sell Kenwyne Jones if the striker's form does not improve.(Daily Mirror) 
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola says he would be interested in bringing Sol Campbell to Upton Park in the January transfer window. (Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Arsenal striker Robin van Persie says ex-team-mate and Manchester City forward Emmanuel Adebayor has yet to apologise for an alleged stamp on him when their two teams met recently.(Daily Star) 
Van Persie says he does not dive but does exaggerate his reaction to fouls.(The Sun) 
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has defended Jamie Carragher over criticism of the centre-back's form and fitness so far this season.(The Guardian) 
Reds midfielder Steven Gerrard was cleared of affray after an incident at the Lounge Inn in Southport but he says the experience has changed him and that he will never celebrate in a bar again.(Daily Mail) 
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes the fear of life without football is the driving force behind the impressive early season form of veteran Ryan Giggs.(The Sun) 
The takeover of Notts County has been cast into doubt under the Football League's 'fit and proper persons' test for owners.(The Sun) 
But that does not appear to be putting off director of football Sven-Goran Eriksson from bringing former Inter Milan boss Roberto Mancini to the club as a replacement for manager Ian McParland.(Daily Star) 

AND FINALLY

Burnley striker Robbie Blake is waiting for the right occasion to pull down his shorts and reveal his lucky charm Bad Beat Bob underpants. He has changed them from red to white because of the club's promotion to the Premier League.(Daily Mirror)
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Friday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Arsenal are preparing a £2m bid for Osasuna full-back Cesar Azpilicueta (on photo).(The Sun)
Valencia forward David Silva, who is reportedly being tracked by Manchester United, has no intention of leaving the Spanish club this season. (Daily Mirror) 
West Ham will step up their efforts to sign Bayern Munich and Italy striker Luca Toni.(Daily Mirror) 
Fulham are tracking Benfica right-back Maxi Pereira, with the Uruguayan set to be out of contract next summer.(Daily Mirror) 
Blackburn are interested in Benfica winger Fabio Coentrao. Rovers have twice sent scouts to look at the winger this season. (Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Newcastle could be forced into administration if Kevin Keegan wins his £25m compensation claim against owner Mike Ashley.(Daily Star) 
Hull manager Phil Brown could have just a month to save his job.(Daily Mirror) 
Portsmouth boss Paul Hart has shrugged off suggestions that he could be in line for the sack.(Daily Star) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has backed defender Sol Campbell for a return to the Premier League after he walked out on Notts County on Wednesday.(The Sun) 
Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor says he will not tone down his goal celebrations despite facing a Football Association charge of improper conduct for the way he reacted to scoring against old club Arsenal.(Daily Star) 
Everton are demanding Blackburn striker El Hadji Diouf apologises for accusing the club's fans of throwing bananas at him.(The Sun) 
Liverpool are targeting their trip to Sunderland on 17 October as the game in which injured £20m midfielder Alberto Aquilani will make his debut for the club.(Daily Telegraph) 
A team of "cyberpolice" from New Scotland Yard have helped to save tens of thousands of football fans from being duped into buying bogus tickets for the 2010 World Cup.(The Times) 
Russell King, a senior representative of Qadbak, the offshore company that owns Notts County, has had £1.9m of his assets frozen by the courts in Jersey over an unpaid debt. (Daily Telegraph) 

AND FINALLY

Former Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he still watches his old team-mates on television and has backed compatriot Nani to fill the void left by his Old Trafford exit.(Daily Mirror) 
England players will be given a "two strikes and you're out" disciplinary code in the lead up to the World Cup.(Daily Mirror)
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Thursday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Bolton defender Gary Cahill is being tracked by Italian giants Juventus following a glowing reference from England boss Fabio Capello. AC Milan are also interested in the 23-year-old.(Daily Mirror) 
Bolton manager Gary Megson says he is not prepared to sell striker Johan Elmander, despite a disappointing record in front of goal and the arrival of loan signing from Nantes, Ivan Klasnic, this summer.(The Sun) 
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez will decide on Thursday whether to offer a contract to Cameroon midfielder Modeste M'Bami, who has been on trial with the club since the start of the season.(The Sun) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Manchester United are becoming increasingly concerned by defender Rio Ferdinand's persistent injury problems.(The Times) 
Former Tottenham and Arsenal defender Sol Campbell quit Notts County because he hated his debut match against Morecambe so much.(Daily Mirror) 
Campbell walked out of Notts County because he did not believe the promised investment from the club's new owners would materialise.(The Independent) 
Hull's Carling Cup defeat at home to Everton leaves under-pressure manager Phil Brown with only four matches to save his job. After the game against Liverpool this weekend, Hull then face fellow strugglers Wigan, Fulham and Portsmouth.(The Sun) 
Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, 38, will decide in December whether this season will be his last.(Daily Mail) 
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez faces a battle to keep pace with the biggest clubs in Europe as leaked documents reveal that his net summer spending is locked at £20m until 2014. That figure also includes wage increases.(The Independent) 
Football Association chairman Lord Triesman and chief executive Ian Watmore have dismissed suggestions that Fabio Capello will stand down as England manager after the 2010 World Cup.(Daily Mail) 
Former Tranmere boss Ronnie Moore could be heading back to Rovers to replace John Barnes, if the ex-Liverpool winger fails to halt the club's slide down the League One table.(Daily Mirror) 
Portsmouth owner Sulaiman Al Fahim says the Premier League strugglers are unlikely to buy new players in the January transfer window.(The Guardian) 
Liverpool's Argentine midfielder Javier Mascherano has been cleared of any wrongdoing following his clash with Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford during Tuesday's Carling Cup match.(Daily Mail) 
Uganda's FA has dropped its compensation claim following manager Csaba Laszlo's move to Hearts last year. (The Sun)
Dundee United manager Craig Levein has escaped punishment from the Scottish FA after comments about the referees involved in defeats by Celtic and Hearts last season. (The Times) 
Scotland manager George Burley says he is ready to omit players from his squad for next month's friendly against Japan if they are not 100% fit. (The Sun)
Celtic midfielder Scott Brown says he does not want to be rested for club or country because of a niggling injury. (Daily Express) 
Former Rangers midfielder Charlie Adam is poised for a Scotland re-call after starring for new club Blackpool. (Daily Mail)
Preston's former Celtic and Sunderland winger Ross Wallace could also be named in the Scotland squad to face Japan. (Daily Mail) 
Robert Snodgrass hopes his impressive display for Leeds against Liverpool in the Carling Cup will earn him a Scotland call-up. (Various)

AND FINALLY

West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green has given an honest assessment of his club's performances this season following the Carling Cup defeat by Bolton on Tuesday. "We're getting above ourselves, thinking we're better than we are at the moment. We're in a position where we have to get results."(Daily Mirror)
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Man Utd 1-0 Wolverhampton

Danny Welbeck marked his first start of the season with the winning goal as 10-man Manchester United edged past Wolves into the Carling Cup fourth round.
The United substitute was set free by a superb Michael Owen pass and he slotted in to send the holders through. 
That came after Fabio da Silva had seen red for a deliberate foul on Michael Kightly, who was clean through on goal. 
But Wolves played their part in a fine game, David Jones and Kevin Doyle both forcing saves from Tomasz Kuszczak. 
The Premier League new-boys lived up to their pre-match word that they would go for the victory at Old Trafford, despite not having won a top-flight match there in almost 30 years. 606:
But the game's one moment of true class told as United overcame the first hurdle of their defence of the trophy they won on penalties against Spurs last February. 
Not that Sir Alex Ferguson ranks that as his greatest priority this season if his selection is anything to by, with the Scot selecting an entirely different XI to the one that started Sunday's derby win over Manchester City.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson:
"You can't argue with the red card, but Fabio is only 18 and this experience will help him grow. 
"Even before we went down to 10 men Wolves were a threat on the counter-attack, but for the last hour we kept our discipline and that was very pleasing. That never-say-die attitude runs through this club and the goal was of magnificent quality. 
"Who do I want next? (Son Darren's side) Peterborough at home. All the family should be happy with that." 
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy: 
"My assessment was that we weren't good enough to win it - we've been sat down, patted on the head and sent on our way. 
"Nice old Wolves, come up put on a show but don't upset the apple cart. It annoys me."
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Manchester Utd. - Wolverhampton

I won’t waste the words too much on United and their current form. Sir Alex again pulled something from the hat and this squad is again fully competitive. Five wins and one defeat (vs. Burnley on the road, 0-1) in Premier League, so far. For tonight’s encounter some youngsters and fringe players will get a chance. Goalie will be Tomasz Kuszczak instead walking disaster, Ben Foster. Central defenders will be Wes Brown and Jonny Evans. Just a fact Brown will be in front suggest a decent possibility of conceding goals. Gibson, Macheda, Welbeck, Brown, Tosic, some of them will also appear. Michael Owen will be in attack as the reward for Saturday’s winner. Far from disputing their talent, just don’t think they can be fully competitive and play on result. Despite some good results in past, Sir Alex doesn’t rank Cup competition (especially League Cup) too high and I think any upset tonight wouldn’t even take a smile, after Saturday’s win, from his face. They have a clash against Stoke at Saturday and most of his key players will be resting (at least first 60 minutes).

Woverhampton started this season as clear underdogs. Fast return in second tier is something that has been already predicted to them. But, so far, they’re announcing a battle at least. Two wins in opening six rounds, Wigan on the road (1-0) and in last round Fulham at home (2-1). Worth of mentioning is also their more than decent away display in defeat against Man.City (0-1). Their biggest problem currently is big number of new players, some signings are even new in England and simply need some time to adapt. Also, Wolves have had a lots of injury concerns. For tonight’s game, two key players are making comebacks from injury, excellent winger Michael Kightly and striker Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (both came as the substitutes at Saturday’s win). Also new signing, striker Stefan Maierhofer, will have his debut. Boss Mick McCarthy will try to use this game for morale boosting, but also as a test game for Premier League. This could be the strongest Wolves’ team this season. 

United are always favorites wherever they play, but I can not see any obvious domination. Although home win is probable, I can not see any convincing win and wouldn’t even write off some surprising result at Trafford. Especially because I expect some outcome from Wolves’ attacking force. Asian handicap +1.75 on visitors seems as a very good value and nice choice, (188 offer 1.95), while Pinnacle for +1.5 offer also more than decent 2.20. 

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Wednesday's gossip column

BREAKING GOSSIP

Brazilian star Ronaldinho denies he is thinking of retiring before his AC Milan contract expires in 2011, and adds he is "very happy" at the Italian club.Marca (Spanish) 

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Tottenham striker Giovani Dos Santos is being offered a move to Deportivo La Coruna as he pursues a bid to play for Mexico in the World Cup. (Daily Mirror)
Aston Villa are keen to loan striker Marlon Harewood to Newcastle for three months. (Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Former Tottenham and Arsenal defender Sol Campbell has quit Notts County after only one game, having agreed a £40,000-a-week deal at the end of August.(Daily Mail) 
Former Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan is on track to win his legal battle with Magpies owner Mike Ashley, which could net the ex-England boss £8m compensation. Keegan is seeking constructive dismissal after quitting his St James' Park role a year ago.(Daily Star) 
Everton are furious after Blackburn's El Hadji Diouf, in an interview on Senegalese radio, claimed their fans hurled bananas at him on Sunday. Police are investigating the striker for alleged racial abuse of a ball-boy in Rovers' 3-0 defeat.(The Sun) 
Former Republic of Ireland boss Steve Staunton has emerged as favourite for the Rotherham managerial post. (Daily Mirror) 
Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster may be dropped for Saturday's match at Stoke City, with Tomas Kuszczak set to be given a starting place. (The Sun)

AND FINALLY

The football "yob" look of the 1980s is making a big comeback following the release of hooligan flick The Firm, with sales of sportswear brands such as Fila and Sergio Tacchini soaring.(Daily Star)
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How I tipped

Carlisle 1 - 3 Portsmouth 

Portsmouth came from behind to beat Carlisle and register a rare win which eases the pressure on boss Paul Hart.
Pompey's dreadful run of results looked set to continue when Ian Harte smashed home an early penalty following an Aaron Mokoena foul on Joe Anyinsah. 
But a great strike from Aruna Dindane on debut and a Danny Webber header turned things around for the visitors. 
Anthony Vanden Borre lost his marker to easily make it three but Carlisle can still be proud of a battling display. 
No-one will be more pleased with the display than Hart, who has watched his side start the Premier League with a record-breaking six consecutive defeats. 
His job is still anything but safe, but he will certainly be feeling more comfortable on the 300-mile journey back to the south coast than he did on the long trip north.

.

Peterborough 2 - 0 Newcastle 

Peterborough dominated a much-changed and disappointing Newcastle side to reach the fourth round of the Carling Cup for the first time since 1994.
Craig Mackail-Smith put the hosts ahead early on with a sharp header before Tom Williams made it two from 18 yards. 
And it should have been a much greater margin, with Mackail-Smith and Aaron McLean both hitting the bar. 
Danny Guthrie saw red for a second yellow card after the break, allowing the hosts to ease to a comfortable win. 
It should have come as no surprise that the London Road crowd saw such a poor performance from the visitors after Chris Hughton made nine changes to the side that beat Plymouth. 
Steven Taylor and Peter Lovenkrands were the only survivors of that game for the Magpies, with four youngsters handed their debuts.
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Carlisle United - Portsmouth

After previous season, when they narrowly avoided relegation beating Millwall in the last round, recent campaign looks nearly the same. They have only two wins in opening eight rounds in League One (with same number of draws and four defeats), they have won only one of their last five matches and currently hold 17th place. Home shape is even more disturbing. A single win against main relegation contender, Tranmere Rovers 3-0 and three defeats. Points from Brunton Park were taking Brentford, Exeter City and Brighton & Hove Albion and interesting is it was the only away win for all these three clubs. Addition to their poor record is two consecutive league defeats, both without a scored goal. So far, only bright moments they live in Cup competition. After elimination of Oldham Athletic (1-0 at home), popular the Cumbrians caused a big shock in the previous round by winning at Bristol City (who btw. have the best home record in Championship, after Newcastle). Manager Greg Abbott will have to decide whether to make changes after weekend’s defeat, but he surely won’t be able to count on defender Simon Lakeland who remains out with a knee injury. Carlisle are playing in the third round of the League Cup for the first time in 34 years.

Portsmouth are breaking all the records in Premier League. They made six consecutive defeats at season opener (plus two from last two games in previous campaign). All started with late takeover of the club by Arab businessman Sulaiman Al Fahim that caused the most of club’s signings came in the final week of the summer transfer window. There are a bunch of new players at Fratton Park and they simply need some time to gel up. Despite the zero on their balance, pitch performances give a hope for better days. At last home game, Pompey put a decent display against Bolton, but thankfully to big errors in defence line finished empty handed. In last round at Villa Park, once again team looked fine, but same story with defensive frailties and zero remained. Manager Paul Hart somehow keeps the good dressing room atmosphere and even fans don’t lack in support. But, next game could be decisive for their future. Cup progress should boost a team’s morale, despite the missings Portsmouth have Premier league players, very competitive squad and win is very reachable. Otherwise, defeat from a third league, mediocre team can sealed their fate. Hart can not count on recent signings O'Hara, Prince-Boateng, Williamson and Smith, who all miss out due to being cup-tied after playing for their previous clubs in earlier rounds of the competition. Defenders Steve Finnan (hamstring) and Hermann Hreidarsson (foot) will probably be sidelined.

Home side already made a first class surprise in Bristol and for them every cup victory has historical weight. However, despite their certain maximum effort tonight, I don’t think they will be even near to make another upset. For the visitors, moment when this encounter comes makes this game as a battle for life and death. They’re without several keys, but the players that are coming in are more than capable to win. Pinnacle offer 2.01. Away win.

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Peterborough Utd. - Newcastle United

Peterborough needed eight rounds in Championship to got paid for some earlier good performances and notice a win. They overplayed QPR on the road (1-1), before that Palace at home (also 1-1), were fine at home against league giants WBA (2-3) and Sheff.Wed. (1-1) and their good displays finally turned into points. Against Reading at Saturday, Posh were two goals down at half-time, but came back and won 3-2. Manager Darren Ferguson (better known as Sir Alex’s son) now wants something more and he’s set to name a full-strength side, the same eleven as against Royals. Key defender, Charlie Lee remains sidelined with the ankle injury, but Ferguson has no other injury problems.. This is just the start of the season and I think we’ll wait some time to see the final limits of this squad. So far, obvious characteristics are fighting spirit and lack of respect to anyone especially at their home, London Road. Peterborough have scored 16 goals in their 10 matches in all competitions this season, failing to score in just one game. In combination with the shaky defence, it usually brings goals on both sides. Tonight’s opponent is the most expensive team in the league, bookies and audience have already written off the Posh and that should be more than enough for the hosts to be fully motivate for a tough battle.

Start of the season showed Newcastle’s clear ambition not to stay too much in the second tier. Big turbulence in the club about new owner, havn’t made serious impact to the players. Six wins from eight games launched them into direct promotion zone. But, they faced a big problems with injured players, lately. Excellent striker, Shola Ameobi broke his foot and won’t be in action for a while, while midfielder Jonas Gutierrez has a hamstring injury and also remains sidelined. New face at medical service is on-loan right-back Danny Simpson who picked a knock against Plymouth on Saturday and his appearance is doubtful. Another on-loan signing (and another defender), Zurab Khizanishvili, is ineligible for the game having already played in the second round of the competition for Blackburn. Beside these missings, boss Chris Hughton intends to rest some keys for Saturday’s trip to Ipswich and will give a chance to his youngsters, like Nile Ranger, Kazenga LuaLua, Tamas Kadar, Ryan Donaldson or Haris Vuckic. For the Magpies, return in the Premier is absolute priority. In the previous Cup’s round, they were struggling and defeated League One represent - Huddersfield Town 4-3, coming from two behind on the half-time. On the other hand, they surely won’t play with the club’s name and their pride. Peterborough should be beaten and that’s something what everyone expects from this game.

Hosts want to defeat a big name, additionally raise their confidence and “money moment” shouldn’t be overlooked. They pay attention to this competition and will play with the strongest squad, but will have to cope with strong opponent and some problems in defence line. Newcastle don’t rank this competition too high and will play with some fringe players and youngsters, but even like that should win at London Road. I predict an open game and goals on both sides. Expext offer 1.95. Over.

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Tuesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp is lining up a January transfer swoop for Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester United are considering an £8m move for Napoli's Slovakian midfielder Marek Hamsik. (Daily Star) 
Everton hope to sign Gillingham's 22-year-old striker Simeon Jackson.(The Sun) 
Wolves striker Sam Vokes is set to join Coventry on loan.(The Sun) 
Tottenham are tracking Sampdoria's Spanish midfielder Pedro Mba Obiang.(Daily Mirror) 
Sheffield United are keen on French striker Fabrice Pancrate, who is a free agent after being released by Paris St Germain.(The Sun) 
Stoke have rejected loan bids from Newcastle and Nottingham Forest for defender Leon Cort.(Daily Mirror) 
Portsmouth are battling it out with Notts County and Turkish side Galatasaray to sign former Manchester City left-back Michael Ball, who is now a free agent. (Daily Mail) 

.

OTHER GOSSIP

Manchester United defender Gary Neville may face punishment from the Football Association following his reaction to Michael Owen's late winner in Sunday's derby. Neville, an unused substitute, ran down the touchline towards Manchester City's fans to celebrate.(The Sun) 
Manchester City midfielder Javier Garrido has accused neighbours Manchester United of creating a "climate of hostility" after being hit on the head by a coin at half-time during Sunday's derby. (Daily Mail) 
Meanwhile, Manchester City will complain to the Football Association about the behaviour of fourth official Alan Wiley during injury time in Sunday's derby. City are angry that manager Mark Hughes was shooed away when he questioned where all the added time had come from.(The Sun) 
Manchester United look set to escape a Fifa investigation over their attempted recruitment of Fiorentina teenager Michele Fornasier.(Daily Telegraph) 
Aston Villa midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker has apologised to manager Martin O'Neill following their training ground bust-up and looks to have saved his future at the Premier League club.(The Sun) 

AND FINALLY

Former Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann has been dropped by Stuttgart after attending the Munich beer festival, Oktoberfest. Lehmann said: "The visit was part of a charity event and had been planned for a long time. However, it was not agreed with the club. Of course I accept the measures taken by the sporting management."(The Sun)
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Monday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Derby County boss Nigel Clough wants to sign Welsh right-back Ryan Shotton on loan from Stoke City.(Daily Mirror) 
Sheffield United are set to hold talks with French winger Fabrice Pancrate, who is a free agent after leaving Paris St Germain.(Daily Mirror) 
Portsmouth and Notts County are battling it out to sign former Manchester City defender Michael Ball, who is without a club after being released by the Eastlands club in July.(Daily Mail) 
Newcastle are set to sign Aston Villa striker Marlon Harewood on loan for three months as replacement for Shola Ameobi, who has a broken foot.(Daily Mail) 
Coventry are lining up a loan move for out-of-favour Sunderland striker David Healy.Daily Mail 

OTHER GOSSIP

Aston Villa midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker will face boss Martin O'Neill on Monday to find out if he still has a future with the club following their training ground bust-up last week. (Daily Star)
Another Villa player hoping for good news regarding his future is winger Stewart Downing, who will today have an operation to remove a pin from his broken foot and is targeting a return to action in November.(Daily Mail) 
The Football League has confirmed they are looking into the recent takeover of Notts County by Munto Finance and said: "We have received fit and proper persons documentation. Discussions are ongoing with regard to the club's ownership structure."(The Sun) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes sides are getting away with cynical fouls against his side and has urged the FA to investigate the matter. (Daily Star) 
Liverpool's Spanish striker Fernando Torres has declared that he wants to face club-mate and England midfielder Steven Gerrard in next summer's World Cup final.(Independent) 
Burnley midfielder Chris McCann is set for scan on the knee he damaged against Sunderland on Saturday and could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.(Daily Mirror) 
Former skipper Gary McAllister is expected to replace Steven Pressley in George Burley's Scotland coaching set-up.(Herald)

AND FINALLY

Bolton were only able to complete the season-long loan signing of striker Ivan Klasnic from Nantes with the help of his wife's German passport. The Croatian was born in Germany but opted to represent Croatia and as such does not have a passport for the former. Unfortunately, he has not played the required number of games for his adopted country but the Trotters got round the problem by flying in his wife.(Daily Mirror) 
Newcastle defender Steven Taylor has revealed the reason behind his X-Factor sign celebration on Saturday. He has been receiving stick from his team-mates for his white teeth, which they say make him look like Simon Cowell.(Daily Mail)
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Sunday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

World governing body Fifa is investigating 15 top transfers involving English clubs.(Mail on Sunday) 
Manchester United are planning a £25m bid for Valencia's attacking midfielder David Silva.(Sunday Express) 
Arsenal will sign 20-year-old Wales midfielder Jack Collison from West Ham in January - and may bring Matthew Upson back to the club as well.(News of the World) 
The Gunners will continue what already looks like a busy January with the completion of their convoluted deal for Marouane Chamakh, who will join from Bordeaux for £1.5m.(Mail on Sunday) 
Martin O'Neill plans to offload Nigel Reo-Coker to Tottenham after his bust-up with the Aston Villa manager.(News of the World)
Manchester City manager Mark Hughes expects to sign midfielder Yaya Toure from Barcelona once the January transfer window opens.(News of the World) 
Chelsea have evidence from the Football Association proving they had clearance to sign former Lens player Gael Kakuta, as the club plan their appeal against a transfer ban.(News of the World) 
Meanwhile, Manchester United are facing the prospect of their own transfer ban after the club's attempts to sign teenagers Paul Pogba and Alberto Massacci were referred to Fifa.(Mail on Sunday) 
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp will recall Jamie O'Hara from his loan deal at Portsmouth as soon as he can. "I like Jamie as a player and I didn't want him to go," said Redknapp.(News of the World) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Manchester City's players have already received £459,000 in win bonuses this season, with a further £9,000 each if the club beat arch-rivals Manchester United on Sunday.(News of the World) 
Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has lined up another mystery buyer for the club, prepared to meet his £100m asking price. Talks are said to have progressed to a more serious stage than with other recently reported bidders.(Sunday Express) 
That mystery bidder is Barry Moat, the Tyneside businessman previously linked with a bid for Newcastle, who has come up with the means to finance the deal.(Sunday Telegraph) 
Notts County have not yet provided the Football League with detailed information about their new owners, who have funded the signings of Sven-Goran Eriksson and Sol Campbell.(Mail on Sunday) 
Lakshmi Mittal may buy out fellow QPR investor Flavio Briatore following the latter's fall from grace over the Renault scandal in Formula 1.(Sunday Telegraph) 
Liverpool are hoping to earn £240m in a naming rights deal for their new stadium.(News of the World) 
Guus Hiddink could return to Chelsea as an executive director with sporting director Frank Arnesen set to leave.(Mail on Sunday) 
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola admits Dean Ashton's long-term ankle injury has put the striker's career at risk.(Sunday Times) 
David Nugent, on loan at Burnley from Portsmouth, says he "made a mistake" moving south and wants to stay at Turf Moor permanently.(News of the World) 

AND FINALLY

Emmanuel Adebayor's row with Robin Van Persie, which boiled over during Manchester City's game against Arsenal last week, began when Adebayor walked off with his then team-mate's boots at the end of last season.(News of the World) 
West Ham's Calum Davenport has thanked people who donated blood for transfusions which "probably" saved his life after he was stabbed last month.(Sunday Telegraph) 
Pele insists he is not the world's greatest ever footballer - but says Diego Maradona isn't, either.(Mail on Sunday)
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How I tipped

Crystal Palace 1 - 0 Derby

A second-half strike from Darren Ambrose gave Crystal Palace their first home league win of the season.
Ambrose's decisive intervention came when he drove home a Sean Scannell header from the edge of the area. 
Johannes Ertl almost stretched Palace's lead when he shuddered the bar with a header, while Rob Hulse missed a chance to level for Derby from 12 yards out. 
Palace goalkeeper Julian Speroni escaped with only a yellow card after handling outside the area early on.
Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock:
"All the talking (Clough on the penalty call) is trying to cover the cracks. Look at their bench. They've got a better side there than we have been able to put out. Let's complain about that.
Derby manager Nigel Clough:
"I thought we created the two best chances of the game and thought we had an absolute blatant penalty in the 92nd minute."
.

Watford 3 - 3 Leicester
An injury-time equaliser from Leicester's Dany N'Guessan denied Watford their third straight victory in an enthralling match at Vicarage Road.
Two goals from Matty Fryatt - a 19th-minute penalty and a 30th-minute strike - put the visitors 2-0 up at half time. 
The Hornets responded through Danny Graham on 57 minutes before on-loan striker Heidar Helguson scored twice in 17 minutes to put them in front. 
But N'Guessan grabbed a late point when he headed home Martyn Waghorn's cross. 
Watford boss Malky Mackay:
"At half time I would have definitely taken the point, I was disappointed to be 2-0 down at half time.
Leicester boss Nigel Pearson:
"It's disappointing. It's two points dropped and the fashion in which we conceded the goals was very disappointing."
.

Nottm Forest 0 - 1 Blackpool
Charlie Adam's fourth goal in five games brought Blackpool their first win in 45 years at the City Ground.
Tangerines' goalkeeper Paul Rachubka smothered a shot from Nathan Tyson before Adam topped a mazy run with a composed finish past Lee Camp. 
Tyson, David McGoldrick and Rob Earnshaw went close as the hosts attempted in vain to hit back. 
But Jason Euell could have doubled the lead for Ian Holloway's side as Camp diverted his well-struck shot. 
Nottingham Forest boss Billy Davies:
"I think we had 19 opportunities to score but we weren't clinical in front of goal."
Blackpool manager Ian Holloway: 
"I felt as though we've nicked something, put it in the bag and got out of here with a win."
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Nottingham Forest - Blackpool

Despite loudly announced ambitions for a play-off spot, Forest haven’t showed anything special so far. The true is they have a full squad of talented players, but main reason for their underachieving, and just a single win in seven games, is big problems in defence line and injuries of, at one moment, six defenders. So, some good displays (like vs. Watford, 2-4 at home) were punished with counter-attacks and lack of points. Some keys in back line have been recovered and club started to collect the points, currently they’re in five games unbeaten run in all competitions (one win and four draws). But if they want to do more than mediocre position in the middle, they have to start winning. First and maybe decisive opportunity is today. Manager Billy Davies again can count on midfielder Radoslaw Majewski who had an ankle injury and striker Nathan Tyson who returns to the squad after the birth of his son last weekend.  

Blackpool made a decent start with just one defeat (Leicester City, 1-2 away) in the first seven rounds. They are a team of great technical skills and their games are pretty to watch. That performances usually stayed short for the final result, but in the previous round, they brought a first defeat to Newcastle (2-1 at home), even without some key players and boost their confidence till the sky limits. But, the main problem today at City Ground will be their mentally discharge and big possibility of bad result that usually comes after. I rated their chances about little lower than 50%. The Seasiders have enough quality to make another good result, but everything will depend from their entering the game. Also, they’ll have to cope with some missings. Striker Ben Burgess has been nursing a knee injury and faces a late fitness test. Danny Coid (defender), Daniel Nardiello (striker), Gary Taylor-Fletcher (midfielder) and Stephen McPhee (striker) remain sidelined. 

Forest start to feel the pressure of great expectations and desperately need a win here. It sounds like already seen scenario with home attacks and visitors’ counters. A total of 12 goals have been scored in Forest's three home league games (five for, seven against) is the highest home average in the Championship. I expect something like that again. Betfair offer 2.18. Over.

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Watford - Leicester City

The Hornets made an impressive run of five league games without a defeat. Two draws against Blackpool (2-2 at home) and Swansea City (1-1 away), while they beat Nottingham Forest (4-2 away) and in last two round Barnsley at home and Plymouth Argyle on the road, 1-0 both. It seems the departure of some their key players (the biggest was their talisman and key striker Tommy Smith to Portsmouth) haven’t made any serious impact to team’s shape. Club’s board returned striker Heidar Helguson (who already was playing for the club 1999-05.) and brought three on-loan players from Premier League. Under the leadership of Malky Mackay (who btw. is living his debut in manager business) everything looks fine, so far. But, on the second view, it can be seen their mentioned run of good results have been made against the teams from bottom half of the table. And last two wins were against Barnsley and Plymouth, clubs that belong to group of main contenders for relegation. And the true is, Watford simply don’t have enough quality for top-half, especially their short bench is a problem in a long season like in Championship. So, I expect their drop sooner or later. Sooner more probably. However, mentioned Helguson and another loan, defender Craig Cathcart are included in the squad for the game. Skipper Jay DeMerit should also be available after missing the last two matches with a groin injury.

Leicester made an impressive start in their returning season in Championship and already announced a battle for a play-off spot. Only defeat in seven opening games came from the most expensive club in the league – Newcastle (0-1 on the road). Players gathered a large amount of self confidence, being absolutely dominant in League One last season and at start of recent campaign in second tier, and already managed to underestimate somebody. In previous round against Peterborough at Walkers, visitors were absolutely dominant in the first half and took a lead. Matty Fryatt equalized from penalty kick in second part, couple chances were created, but only 1-1 draw at the end. Pale display didn’t make serious impact to dressing room atmosphere and Foxes go to Vicarage Road, hunting down their first away win. I think their displays so far warranted another good game and their hope for good result against Hornets has a reliable coverage. Experienced defender Wayne Brown has a shoulder injury and will be assessed before the Foxes line-up is decided, while another defender, Bulgarian Aleksandar Tunchev, needed 10 stitches in a head wound but he is expected to be passed fit. The Foxes have won five and drawn three of their last nine games at Vicarage Road.

It seems Watford’s run of five unbeaten games impressed the bookmakers that offered more than decent odd against them. Watford have been playing over their real capabilities, haven’t faced any team from the league’s top (except Sheff.Utd., 0-2 defeat) so far and they’ll surely face a drop at the table very soon. On the other hand, Leicester are play-off favorites from the shadow and I expect very good games from them through the season and following Foxes with bets should bring a nice income. Away win today should be considered as a gamble. I suggested a safer option with covering a draw, but odds arround 2.05 for dnb 2 are still high.

Maybe one more shorter analyze later. Cheers.

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Saturday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Despite their transfer ban until January 2011, Chelsea are still scouting for players to sign with Benfica winger Angel di Maria top of the list. The Blues are also monitoring Benfica's Brazilian centre-half David Luiz.(Daily Mirror) 
Barcelona have told Manchester City that they will need to find £300m to buy Lionel Messi, after the Argentine winger signed a new deal that will keep him at the Spanish giants until 2016.(The Sun) 
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill will decide Nigel Reo-Coker's future on Monday, after the midfielder was sent home following a training ground bust up.(Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed he may renew his interest in Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh following an unsuccessful long-running transfer saga throughout the summer. The 25-year-old Moroccan international was linked with a number of Premier League sides but the Gunners seem keen to secure his services. (FourFourTwo.com) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes says he almost walked away from the club in the summer of 2008 because of a lack of money as well as the turmoil over the club's ownership.(The Guardian) 
The war of words between Hughes and Manchester United counterpart Sir Alex Ferguson has been stepped up ahead of Sunday's city derby at Old Trafford. 
City boss Hughes says the failure to replace winger Cristiano Ronaldo and the departure of forward Carlos Tevez has left United "below par".(The Sun) 
And United manager Ferguson believes his side will never be underdogs against City long as he is alive.(Various) 
Former Newcastle boss Alan Shearer is keen to return to management. "If a job was to come up, not necessarily Newcastle, then I would be interested," he told an assembly of school children. (Daily Mirror) 
England's players have backed Fabio Capello's no-nonsense regime by cancelling plans for a lavish pre-World Cup party.(The Times) 
Chelsea skipper John Terry has revealed the level of influence he has at Stamford Bridge. He says he tells owner Roman Abramovich which players they need to keep and that he played a key role in the new deals signed by Ashley Cole, Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard.(The Sun) 
Celtic boss Tony Mowbray has warned contract rebel Gary Caldwell could have received his final offer of a new deal. The Scottish international claimed on Thursday that talks with his agent had been halted and that he had been offered less than some of his team-mates.(Daily Mail) 
Munto Finance's takeover of Notts County has not yet been ratified by the Football League, as officials are still to be satisfied that the new owners pass the "fit and proper persons" test.(The Sun) 

AND FINALLY

Manchester City defender Kolo Toure says he has earned every penny he has made from football after an impoverished childhood growing up in Ivory Coast. "I've done things that no other player has done. I have sold newspapers by the side of the road and cleaned the shoes of people for less than a pound."(Daily Telegraph) 
Argentina manager Diego Maradona has reportedly had a pair of earings seized by Italian police. The World Cup-winning midfielder, who is staying in a spa in Merano, apparently owes £20.25m to the Italian taxman. The earings will go only a small way to paying off the bill, however, as they are only worth £3,500.(Associated Press)
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