Monday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester United are set to make a surprise move for Manchester City defender Micah Richards, if the Eastlands outfit decide to offload the player as a result of his inconsistent form.(Daily Mirror) 
Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti says he does not expect to make any new signings in January, unless his side suffers any injuries. This is despite the club having the transfer ban imposed on it by Fifa for inducing Gael Kakuta to break his contract suspended by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.(The Sun) 
Cash-strapped West Ham are ready to offload England goalkeeper Robert Green in January if they receive a bid in the region of £5m.(Daily Mirror) 
Wolves are eyeing up a January move for Aston Villa's £3m-rated England under-21 international midfielder Craig Gardner.(Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal head a clutch of Premier League teams chasing Plymouth's 15-year-old midfield starlet Daniel Hart.(Daily Mirror) 
Everton boss David Moyes is chasing PSV Eindhoven's Serbian striker Danko Lazovic - after giving up on his fellow countryman Milan Jovanovic, who plays for Standard Liege.(Daily Mirror) 
New Portsmouth manager Avram Grant says that he will be searching for new players to help strengthen his side in January and boost their hopes of avoiding relegation this season.(The Guardian) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says that striker Didier Drogba, who scored two goals for Chelsea as they beat the Gunners 3-0 on Sunday, actually did very little in the match at the Emirates. (Various)
After Chelsea's victory over Arsenal, which sent the Blues five points clear at the top of the Premier League, captain John Terry declared that his side's performance was "the stuff of champions". (The Sun) 
Kettering Town manager and goalkeeper Lee Harper, whose side earned an FA Cup second-round replay at Leeds following a 1-1 draw with the Yorkshire side on Sunday, will delay retiring from playing in order to help the club try to earn a clash at Manchester United, who await the winner in the third round. (Daily Star)
West Ham striker Carlton Cole's chances of playing for England at the World Cup in South Africa next year have suffered a major blow after it was revealed he suffered knee ligament damage during the Hammers' 5-3 win over Burnley on Saturday and faces at least four months on the sidelines. (The Sun) 
England's bid to host the 2018 World Cup was given a boost on Sunday night when Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva pledged his support, saying "It is time for the UK to host it again". (Various)
Hull defender Paul McShane was involved in a tunnel bust-up after his side's 1-1 draw at Manchester City on Saturday as he attempted to get to Craig Bellamy with whom he argued on the pitch just before the final whistle. (The Sun) 
Hull manager Phil Brown says he has made an attempt to tone down his touchline demeanour in order to help his side improve their form. "I'm just conscious of my role," said Brown. "I wouldn't say more conscious, just conscious of my role and the effect it can have."(Daily Mirror) 
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has warned his players they face the axe unless they start to perform against sides below them in the league table. Following losses at Stoke, Burnley and Birmingham this season, the Black Cats fell to a 1-0 defeat to Wigan on Saturday. (The Sun) 
Newcastle defender Fabricio Coloccini has insisted he is happy to stay at the club and to prove his loyalty he has revealed that the club received offers for him in the summer but he stayed in order to help United return to the Premier League. (Daily Star) 

AND FINALLY

Ipswich manager Roy Keane says that a trip to see the Australian rugby union team beat Wales 33-12 at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday helped inspire his side to their 2-1 victory at Cardiff on Sunday. (Daily Mirror)
www.bbc.co.uk

Arsenal 0-3 Chelsea

Premier League leaders Chelsea left Arsenal's title challenge reeling by beating the Gunners to increase the gap to 11 points on their London rivals.
Striker Didier Drogba guided an Ashley Cole cross into the top corner to put the visitors ahead. 
Another Ashley Cole delivery was then diverted into his own net by Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen. 
Drogba put an elaborate seal on a deserved victory when he powered in a 25-yard free-kick late on. 
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had said the game was a moment for his players to show their strength but, instead, the defeat only served to blow a massive hole in his side's title hopes.
Chelsea, however, move five points clear of Manchester United at the top of the table and have now kept clean sheets in their previous six Premier League matches. 
The last time Arsenal had been beaten at home was by Chelsea in May and, despite five free-scoring wins at the Emirates Stadium so far this season, the Blues again showed their power was superior to Arsenal's panache.
www.bbc.co.uk

Arsenal - Chelsea

This London derby will be the clash of best attack (Arsenal scored 36) and best defense (Chelsea conceded 8). The Gunners have been performing surprisingly (for me) good so far and it seems they’ll once again finish in top 4 (third I think). They play probably the prettiest football in the world, but cruel true is they won’t win any competition with that style of play. They can run the riot against Portsmouth, Wigan, Blackburn, Birmingham, even against Spurs (their five home wins), but against the top teams like Man.Utd., or Man.City (their defeats) that are capable to stop their attack, Arsenal look clueless. And despite their enormous attacking potential, missing of Van Persie is bigger hit than it was expected. Also second best attacker, Arshavin, is still in depression for not qualifying for South Africa, while Rosicky doesn’t seem fully recovered. Arsenal will be without left-back Kieran Gibbs, who broke a metatarsal in win over Standard in midweek and his place will take Armand Traore. But, big blow could be missing of William Gallas who is doubtful with a swollen eye suffered in the same match, so Mikael Silvestre could start.

Chelsea look stronger than ever and they look like the most serious contender for the titles, in England and Europe as well. Ancelotti has huge number of top quality players in the squad and playing competitive games too often doesn’t look as a problem. The Blues hold the top of the table, already defeated Man.Utd. and with today’s win would make five points margin. Big boost for them is returning of Franck Lampard as the midfielder recovered from a torn thigh muscle. Michael Essien has overcome a knee problem, while Deco and Michael Ballack returned from injury in midweek. Ancelotti has all players fit and available.

Despite they’re collecting the points, it obvious Arsenal have been noticing a decrease in performance. Missing of Van Persie and melancholic Arshavin are the main problems when they face a tough defenses. Even Sunderland, without two of three best players (Cattermole and Jones) managed to stop them and win (0-1). So, beside the bigger quality (my opinion, again), Chelsea gain the style of play that least suits to Arsenal. Anyway, for Chelsea this is derby game on the road, they should be satisfied even with a draw and my bet is dnb 2 instead away win. Odds are around 1.85-1.95. Also,  Chelsea like (three times in last four games) to win by a goal in the second half. So gamble is x-2 (ht/ft). 

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Sunday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is determined to win the race to sign £50m-rated Spanish striker David Villa from Valencia. (Sunday Express)
The billionaire owners of Manchester City are to rock ailing Liverpool by launching an audacious £50m bid for star striker Fernando Torres.(Mail on Sunday) 
Spanish giants Barcelona are tracking Tottenham and England striker Jermain Defoe, 27, who has scored 15 goals already this season. (Sunday Express)
Chelsea target Sergio Aguero, 21, claims he has no intention of leaving Spanish side Atletico Madrid this summer. (Sunday Express) 
Liverpool are ready to offload Dutch striker Ryan Babel, 22, on loan to German Bundesliga club Bayern Munich with a view to making the move permanent for around £9m in the summer.(News of the World) 
The Reds are also keen on bringing striker Diego Forlan, 30, back to the Premier League from Spanish side Atletico Madrid, but boss Rafael Benitez has been told he must sell before he can buy.(The People) 
Manchester City are lining up a £20m bid for Argentina winger Diego Perotti, 21, who plays in Spain for Sevilla.(News of the World) 
City have also joined the race to sign Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson, increasing the likelihood that Robinho will leave Eastlands.(The People) 
Chelsea and City will go head-to-head to sign Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery and AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso in the January transfer window.(The People) 
Tottenham are lining up a £10m bid for West Ham defender Matt Upson with Alan Hutton going the other way.(The People) 
Manchester United are keen on signing Japanese striker Takayuki Morimoto, 21, who is currently playing for Catania in Italy.(The People) 
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy could bolster his defence by bringing in Preston's Republic of Ireland international Eddie Nolan, 21, for £500,000.(News of the World) 
Newcastle manager Chris Hughton is targeting Manchester United's 20-year-old midfielder Tom Cleverley, who is currently on loan at Championship side Watford.(News of the World) 
Hull manager Phil Brown looks poised to hijack Matt Kilgallon's £2m move to Newcastle. The defender looked set to move to Tyneside after snubbing the offer of a new deal at Sheffield United, but the Tigers hope to lure Kilgallon with a three-year deal worth £25,000-a-week.(News of the World) 
Newcastle duo Kevin Nolan and Alan Smith are set to snub the chance to return to the top flight in the January transfer window despite interest from Wigan and Everton respectively. (Sunday Express)
Nottingham Forest manager Billy Davies is keen to bring Michael Dawson back to the City Ground from Tottenham, along with his team-mate Gareth Bale.(Sunday Mirror) 
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce wants to sign Newcastle defender Jose Enrique and is prepared to let Kieran Richardson move in the opposite direction to make the deal go through. (Sunday Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

' time as Manchester City manager could be coming to an end after a seventh successive Premier League draw. Inter Milan boss Jose Mourinho and Guus Hiddink are among those in the frame to replace him.(News of the World) 
Meanwhile, former Chelsea manager Mourinho has revealed that he is pining for a return to the Premier League.(News of the World) 
Liverpool have rejected the chance to share a super-stadium with Everton and said "it will never happen". Everton chief Robert Elstone approached the Reds after their plans for a new ground in Kirkby were rejected last week.(Sunday Mirror) 
Meanwhile, Jurgen Klinsmann will tell Liverpool that he would not turn them down again after rejecting the chance to replace Rafa Benitez as manager two years ago.(The People) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is furious with the Dutch FA for misdiagnosing Robin van Persie's ankle injury - the striker faces five months out after damaging ligaments. (Various)
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand will learn in the next 10 days whether his bad back has ended his dreams of playing for England in the 2010 World Cup. (Sunday Express) 
Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka is lining up an improved deal at Stamford Bridge that could take his weekly salary from £80,000-a-week to £120,000-a-week.(News of the World) 
New Portsmouth manager Avram Grant hopes to persuade former Liverpool and Tottenham midfielder Jamie Redknapp to give up his TV pundit career and join him at Fratton Park as his assistant.(News of the World) 
Former Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate will serve court papers on the club this week after failing to his compensation money after being sacked.(Mail on Sunday) 
Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson says his dream is to lead his League Two side Notts County to Champions League victory. (Sunday Mirror) 
Nicky Shorey, 28, is ready to quit Aston Villa after revealing he has grown "extremely frustrated" at life under Martin O'Neill and will step up his attempts to find another club in the New Year.(Sunday Mirror) 

AND FINALLY

Frank Lampard will donate £20,000 to Great Ormond Street children's hospital if Chelsea lose to Arsenal after agreeing to a wager with 12-year-old Gunners fan Jake Peach. If Chelsea win, Peach, a leukemia survivor and former patient at the London hospital, will wear a Blues shirt for the day. (Mail on Sunday) 

AND FINALLY...FINALLY

Manchester City chief executive Garry Cook will write to the club's fans to apologise after announcing at a 60th anniversary dinner for the Official Supporters club at Eastlands: "I'd like to welcome Uwe Rosler into the Manchester United hall of fame."(Sunday Mirror)
www.bbc.co.uk

Saturday

Portsmouth 1 - 4 Man Utd

Wayne Rooney's hat-trick helped guide Manchester United to victory over bottom-of-the table Portsmouth.
Rooney put the visitors ahead from the spot after he was brought down by Michael Brown only for Kevin-Prince Boateng's penalty to haul Pompey level. 
Ryan Giggs crossed for Rooney to slot in and the Welsh winger was then fouled to allow the England striker to grab his third with a second penalty. 
Giggs added a late free-kick as United kept the pressure on leaders Chelsea. 
The win moved United to within two points of Premier League table-toppers Chelsea, who play Arsenal on Sunday. 
It was Giggs' 100th Premier League goal and capped a performance of vision and verve which has been the trademark of an illustrious career - and this a day ahead of the his 36th birthday.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson had to watch from the stands as he began the first of a two-game touchline ban and, in an even first half, it was far from comfortable viewing for the Scot before his team eased away to victory. 
Portsmouth had new manager Avram Grant in charge and, although he will take encouragement from the display, he knows his side need to start converting some promising play into points. 
The Fratton Park side have bemoaned a lack of fortune this season with seven of 10 Premier League defeats being by the odd goal. 
They certainly did not lack a fight and fervour to their play against United but it was a lack of composure in front of goal against the top-flight champions rather than luck which proved their downfall.
.

Scunthorpe 1 - 1 Leicester

Martyn Woolford scored with the final kick to earn Scunthorpe a point against promotion-hunting Leicester.
Martyn Waghorn outpaced David Mirfin to latch on to Jack Hobbs' header before firing past Joe Murphy from an acute angle as Leicester opened the scoring. 
But substitute Woolford struck sweetly from the edge of the box as Leicester paid for some poor finishing. 
The visitors should have been out of sight by then while Scunthorpe were indebted to Murphy for some fine saves. 
Leicester manager Nigel Pearson: 
"I am disappointed because we had chances in the first half to score more goals. 
"But I am not going to have a go at my players because overall this was another good away performance. 
"There was just one ball into the box that we did not deal with - and it has cost us. 
"But we have scored a lot of late goals to win games in recent weeks. It was somebody else's turn to do the same to us." 
Scunthorpe manager Nigel Adkins:
"I thought we deserved it. Obviously we made life difficult for ourselves by giving away a poor goal in the opening few minutes. 
"Leicester are a difficult side to break down and don't concede many goals. 
"But we showed great spirit, we kept going until the end and finally got the goal we deserved. 
"Our home form has generally been good this season, and this was another good result for us against a team up there near the top of the table."

www.bbc.co.uk

Scunthorpe Utd. - Leicester City

Scunthorpe make their debut in second tier, currently they’re two points from relegation zone. They had some bright moments during the season, but it seems they already reached their limits and started to sink. Five competitive (four in league) defeats in a row, 17 goals conceded and just two scored in them! Far ago things went wrong, I don’t think they’ll bounce back this season and see them in League One next year. Their home record is much better, they have noticed 4 wins from eight games and took three scalps to be honored with. Preston and Sheff.Utd. 3-1 and Newcastle 2-1 were the victims of underestimation and that record calls on caution. Small teams are always motivated to put the maximum effort against the strongest, especially if they come to Glanford Park with injury problems (Utd. and Newcastle). Goalie Joe Murphy has served a suspension and will return after missing out against Watford last weekend (0-3), while midfielder Grant McCann may also return to the side. No new injury worries for boss Nigel Adkins.

Leicester also are in debut season, but their record and ambitions are opposite. They have made a very good run of results that saw them at the third place. Team is well balanced with excellent Matty Fryatt in attack (scored 9 league goals so far). They’re also in excellent physical condition. As the game comes near to the end, Foxes establish domination in game. Most of their games are decided in the second half and they have seven wins with one goal margin. After shocking home defeat against WBA (1-2), Leicester bounced back against Plymouth. They were dominating all of the game, but lacked in creating a chances and scored deep in additional time. And that’s their main problem, playing against the teams that defend with all players. Their big advantage today will be hosts’ intention to attack as Scunthorpe don’t know differently. Skipper midfielder Matt Oakley is back after a suspension and could replace Andy King. Defender Aleksandar Tunchev and midfielder Stephen Clemence remain the only absentees with long-term injuries.

Beside Peterborough, hosts are main contenders for relegation. Lack of quality, low level of team discipline and attacking and nice to watch style of play (habit from lower division) are the major reason for their sinking. Can not see any sign of possible improvement in the near future. On the other side, Foxes are with Newcastle the most compact squad in Championship. I don’t expect too much surprising results from them. Will be ups and downs, but will be always in top six. 2.34 at Pinnacle. Away win.

.

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Portsmouth - Manchester United

Pompey made the disaster start of the season. Returned back with away win against Wolverhampton 1-0 and a draw also on the road vs. fellow strugglers Hull. After that, two 4-0 wins at home (Stoke and Wigan in Cup) and again two defeats on the road. In last round vs. Stoke away, Kevin-Prince Boateng missed the penalty at the start of the game and tight match finished with another defeat (0-1). After the game, Paul Hart got fired. Few reasons why I think it was a mistake. First, squad simply hasn’t enough quality and even top manager couldn’t do better. Hart also made some kind of family atmosphere and players are in shock because his departure. His replacement is Avram Grant. When he was appointed in Chelsea, players started the riot because his old fashioned training and team needed some time to adjust to his way of work (some players never accepted him as a man in charge). Can’t see why in Portsmouth this should be better. And last, but not the least, first game is against furious United. Also, should be mentioned, Grant will be officially appointed after the game, caretaker will lead the team. First goalie, David James, suffered an injury during the warming-up for game against Stoke and will miss again. His place will take a substitute, Jamie Ashdown. Papa Bouba Diop, John Utaka and Steve Finnan are all battling to be fit.

After CSKA finished his game against Wolfsburg and won 2-1, Sir Alex changed the team and sent a bunch of youngsters to bring him a point and first place in the group, counting on opponent’s lack of motivation. But, the painful truth is European competition isn’t Carling Cup, Turkish side defeated United and made of them a main story in Britain. Well, history learns us Man.Utd. are the most dangerous when their dignity is hurt. I expect their response and Ferguson surely will send the hard artillery on the pitch. No European game next week and no reason for resting players and calculation. This game should be a message to Chelsea (who btw. already have a surplus of five points). Only Rio Ferdinand and John O'Shea, beside Hargreaves, are confirmed missings. Evans, Fabio and Berbatov (who should appeared against Besiktas) will have a late fitness test.

I would write-off the new manager effect here, ‘cause the players are not the least pleased with that. Portsmouth advantages will be smaller pitch (as always) where they create chances easier than on the road and maybe United’s defense line. I think it will be far from enough to resist from visitors’ revenge. I’m little cautious about the stake just because Wes Brown and his habit to make stupidities. However, Pompey look just like a victim of bad circumstances. United's win with a handicap.

.

Very probably one more pick before the kick-off in England.

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Saturday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has made signing Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery his top priority and is ready to pay a British record £45m for the Frenchman and make him the highest paid player in the Premier League.(Daily Mail) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has warned the rest of the Premier League that Abramovich may go on a spending spree in the January transfer window.(Daily Express) 
Manchester United and Everton are trailing 18-year-old Antwerp midfielder Geoffrey Hairemans. The Belgian teenager has already spent a week training with United. (The Sun)
Sheffield United defender Matt Kilgannon, 25, will join Newcastle in a £2m deal in the New Year. The centre-back's arrival is likely to hasten Fabricio Coloccini's departure to Spain. (Daily Mail) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Paul Gascoigne has returned to Newcastle in a bid to reignite his coaching career. The former England and Newcastle midfielder is working alongside Peter Beardsley at the club's Academy.(Daily Express) 
Arsenal's record signing Andrey Arshavin has admitted he did not want to play football in the aftermath of Russia's failure to qualify for the 2010 World Cup finals.(Daily Express) 
Carlo Ancelotti says he wants to stay as Chelsea manager for the next 20 years and build an empire just like Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger have done at Manchester United and Arsenal respectively. (Various)
Sven-Goran Eriksson has demanded the immediate payment of a seven-figure sum of money he believes he is owed by Notts County's owners Qadbank Investments.(Guardian) 

AND FINALLY

Film director and Bath fan Ken Loach has dreamed about getting former Manchester United star Eric Cantona, 43, to play for his side if they reach the FA Cup third round for the first time in 15 years.(The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Friday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp faces a battle with Liverpool to sign former Arsenal favourite Patrick Vieira from Inter Milan in the January transfer window.(Daily Telegraph) 
The two clubs are also keeping tabs on Atletico Madrid Diego Forlan after the Uruguay striker admitted he would like to return to England.(Daily Mirror) 
New Portsmouth boss Avram Grant has been promised funds for players in the new year, with the club expecting its transfer ban to be lifted before the January transfer window.(The Sun) 
Defender Brede Hangeland is set to sign a new deal at Fulham, scuppering Arsenal's hopes of luring the Norwegian to north London.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester United have concluded a deal for Cardiff's teenage defender Adam Matthews, who will move to Old Trafford for £5m in the January transfer window.(The Sun) 
Tottenham have tied up a £4m deal to bring Rangers defender Madjid Bougherra to White Hart Lane.(The Sun) 
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill is tracking Portugal international Miguel after the right-back fell out with Valencia coach Unai Emery.(The Sun) 
Aberdeen manager Mark McGhee is close to admitting they cannot afford to sign USA midfielder Stuart Holden when the Aberdeen-born player's contract with Houston Dynamo ends this month. (Daily Express)
Falkirk are awaiting international clearance to sign 23-year-old midfielder Toufik Zerara, most recently with Dubai outfit Al Dhafra. (Various) 
Midfielder Simon Ferry says he wants to quit Celtic permanently after his loan to Swindon Town was extended until the summer. (The Sun) 

OTHER GOSSIP

England manager Fabio Capello wants to go head-to-head with Diego Maradona's Argentina team in a pre-World Cup friendly next March.(Daily Mail) 
Former England midfielder Paul Gascoigne has warned England not to heap too many expectations on striker Wayne Rooney for the 2010 World Cup.(Daily Mirror) 
Liverpool striker Fernando Torres insists manager Rafael Benitez is the right man to turn around Liverpool's ailing fortunes. (Daily Express) 
Former Manchester United star Fabien Barthez has sparked uproar in France when it was revealed he charged 70 Euro a minute as Raymond Domenech's goalkeeping coach. (Daily Star) 
Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti says Jose Mourinho's job is safe - despite their uncertain Champions League fate following a 2-0 defeat by Barcelona on Tuesday.(Daily Telegraph) 
Bolton manager Gary Megson insists there is no "witch-hunt" after suggesting "one or two" players were destabilising the Premier League club. (Daily Telegraph)
Madjid Bougherra says he will repay Rangers with good performances after explaining his late return from international duty was because of celebrations in his homeland after Algeria beat Egypt to qualify for the World Cup finals. (The Sun) 
Scottish FA chief executive Gordon Smith will propose the use of video replays to help referees when he addresses the International Football Association Board meeting in March. (Various)

AND FINALLY

The mysterious horse placenta healer of Belgrade has won over many England-based footballers, but it seems Frank Lampard isn't one of them. The Chelsea midfielder walked out after an hour of treatment with Marijana Kovacevic, who uses fluid derived from a horse's placenta, in a bid to heal his thigh injury.(The Independent) 
An email on behalf of John Terry has been sent to prospective sponsors outlining the England captain's suitability to endorse companies for the 2010 World Cup. The email states that Terry was "voted as one of the World's most influencial (sic) people".(Daily Mail)
www.bbc.co.uk

Thursday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Out-of-favour Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy will reject Arsenal in favour of a move to Liverpool on loan.(Daily Mirror) 
Tottenham want to sign Manchester City defender Micah Richards in the January transfer window(Daily Mirror) 
Burnley want to sign striker David Nugent on a permanent deal from Portsmouth when his loan deal expires.(The Sun) 
Blackburn and Burnley are both keeping tabs on 25-year-old Lincoln goalkeeper Rob Burch.(The Sun) 
Southend are keen to sign Crewe defender Billy Jones and Wycombe veteran Michael Duberry. (Daily Mirror)

OTHER GOSSIP

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright's attempts to sell the club have suffered a major blow after planning permission for a new stadium was rejected.(The Independent) 
Former Inter Milan goalkeeper Walter Zenga is being lined up as Bolton's next manager.(Daily Mirror) 
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has laughed off Wigan chairman Dave Whelan's suggestion that the Latics' 9-1 thrashing by Tottenham was partly down to some of Bruce's "dodgy" signings when he was in charge of the side.(The Times) 
Stamford Bridge looks likely to miss out on being one of the grounds included in England's 2018 World Cup bid as there is not enough room around the stadium but the London Olympic Stadium is likely to be included.(Daily Mail) 
Former Sports Minster Richard Caborn wants BBC presenter and former striker Gary Lineker to join the England 2018 World Cup bid, calling him "a modern day Sir Bobby Charlton". (Daily Telegraph).
Former Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson could return to management at Sheffield United - if Kevin Blackwell is sacked. The Blades have won only one of their last nine games.(Daily Mirror) 
Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo returned to action in the Champions League on Tuesday after two months out with an ankle injury and should be available for the top-of-the-table La Liga clash with Barcelona this weekend.(Daily Mirror) 
Rangers midfielder Lee McCulloch fears the team could be broken up after their exit from the Champions League.(The Guardian) 

AND FINALLY

Arsenal defender Armand Traore will have surgery in the summer to get rid of his tattoos, calling them "one of the biggest mistakes of my life".(Daily Mirror)
www.bbc.co.uk

Hull 3-2 Everton

Hull held off an Everton fightback to earn a win which moves them level with their struggling opponents.
Stephen Hunt powered in a shot for the home side after Jozy Altidore's effort had been parried by keeper Tim Howard. 
Andy Dawson's free-kick and a Dean Marney shot added to the lead but Hull's Kamil Zayatte sliced a clearance into his own goal to give Everton hope. 
Zayatte conceded a penalty which Louis Saha converted for the visitors but the Tigers clung on for victory. 
Everton must have been on the end of a verbal bashing from manager David Moyes at half-time as they came out a different side after the break. 
However, their efforts came too late to rescue a dire opening half as the home side were resolute enough to earn three points and leave the Toffees with only one win in 10 games.
Hull had gone into the match without Jimmy Bullard as boss Phil Brown decided to rest his star man so that the midfield playmaker could recover from a minor knock to his knee. 
Bullard has had a major impact for the Tigers since his recovery from a lengthy spell out injured but Brown was taking the longer term view when leaving him out and the home side initially made light of his absence.
Hull City boss Phil Brown:
"I think it was a deserved win, even though Everton scored two goals in the second half. People might have been nervous at 3-2 but I wasn't unduly worried, I thought we still had a grip on the game. 
"Defensively, we were very good in the first half. The second half was a different ball game and an own goal unhinges you to a certain extent. 
"But we stuck at the task and thoroughly deserved the victory. 
"Jimmy Bullard's in a new area of his rehabilitation. It was just a precautionary resting and fortunately it has worked for everybody. 
"It now gives me a bit of a headache for Saturday, but they are the kind of headaches you want."
www.bbc.co.uk

Hull City - Everton

Home side is in the run of four games at home without a defeat. Two wins (Wigan and Stoke) and two draws (Portsmouth and West Ham). Midfield playmaker, Jimmy Bullard, recovered from the injury (returned against Stoke), team improved the attacking potential, moved from relegation zone and manager Phil Brown still keeps his job. The problem is, their defense line is the worst in Premier (only Wigan conceded more, but thankfully to London’s disaster). That defense will miss regular right-back, Bernard Mendy who will serve a one-game ban after his sending-off against West Ham, while goalie, Boaz Myhill, will face a late fitness tests. The same situation, as with Myhill, is with midfielder Seyi Olofinjana. The Tigers will fight for all three points, although their last win against Everton was at old stadium Boothferry Park back in December 1952.

Everton play a season much under all expectations. David Moyes has had a lots of injury players since the league started. They have only one win (West Ham 2-1, away) in last nine competitive games. Defense line hasn’t been performing well, since the departure of Joleon Lescott. Two other defenders who Moyes imagined to be key in back line, Jagielka and Neville, are long-term injured. However, they have plenty of players who make a goal scoring threat and I think (hope Moyes too) Everton will have more chances if attack and try to play for a goal more, than to defend. Yakubu and Saha should cause a lots of problems for Hull’s shaky defense. Fellaini and Bilyaletdinov are suspended, while Steven Pienaar is finally set to return, but could appear only against Liverpool on Sunday.

This is their second meeting at KC Stadium this season. In League Cup, Everton made a convincing 4-0 win and that’s probably the reason for such low odds for away win. It seems both teams have much more potential in attacks than in back lines. I expect another open game and goals on both sides. Betfair offer 2.14, Pinnacle 2.12. Over.

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Wednesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Arsenal will make a £17m summer move for Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor if the 23-year-old has a strong finish to the season.(Daily Star) 
Or Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger could instead bid £14m in an attempt to lure 20-year-old Nice striker Loic Remy to the Emirates.(The Sun) 
Nemanja Vidic will leave Manchester United in the summer and head for a club in southern Europe. The 28-year-old defender and his wife Ana have failed to settle in Manchester and will head for sunnier climes.(Daily Mail) 
However, Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik could be a summer arrival at Old Trafford. The 22-year-old has been earmarked as a player who can breathe new life into a Manchester United squad that features several stars in their mid thirties.(Daily Telegraph) 
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is weighing up a swoop for Honduran striker Melvin Valladeres. The 25-year-old, recommended by Spurs midfielder Wilson Palacios, has been given a two-week trial by the club.(The Mirror) 
Derby boss Nigel Clough is hoping to sign DJ Campbell on loan from Leicester before the deadline for emergency signings passes on Thursday. However, Sheffield Wednesday are also keen to sign the 28-year-old striker.(The Mirror) 
Sheffield United striker Jamie Ward, 23, is wanted by West Brom. Ward has scored four times for the Blades this season but could move in January for around £1.5m.(The Mirror) 
Arsenal are set to beat Manchester United and their rivals Manchester City to the signing of QPR youngster Raheem Sterling. The Gunners will have to pay £750,000 in compensation for the striker.(The Sun) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Avram Grant is set to move up from his director of football role to become Portsmouth manager following Paul Hart's exit on Tuesday.(The Sun)
Alternatively, Pompey could chose former Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson and name him in time for Saturday's game against his father's team - Manchester United. (Daily Express) 
Manchester United keeper Edwin van der Sar could come out of international retirement to play in the World Cup for The Netherlands next summer. Van der Sar will only be four months short of his 40th birthday when the tournament starts.(The Guardian) 
Sunderland striker Darren Bent is set to miss five matches because of a hamstring injury. The Black Cats are already without Kenwyne Jones, who is completing a three-match ban.(The Sun) 
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson is set to land a bumper £5m-a-year pay deal that will keep him at Craven Cottage until 2012. Fulham currently lie 12th in the Premier League and have already beaten Liverpool this campaign. (Daily Express)

AND FINALLY

Roy Keane has apologised after saying the Republic of Ireland should "get over" France striker Thierry Henry's handball in last week's World Cup qualifier. "I apologise to anyone I offended. I'm only 38 and will make mistakes," he said.(The Sun) 
Sam Allardyce's wife, Lynn, will ban him from using his mobile phone tonight to ensure he has no involvement in Blackburn's clash with Fulham. The Rovers manager, 55, is set to undergo heart surgery on Friday.(Daily Mail)
www.bbc.co.uk

Barcelona 2-0 Inter

Reigning champions Barcelona gave their chances of progression from Champions League Group F a huge boost with a 2-0 home win over Internazionale.
Defender Gerard Pique volleyed an early first from a corner before winger Pedro finished off a sublime move to make it two on 26 minutes, although Inter keeper Julio Cesar was at fault.
Following the earlier 0-0 draw between Rubin Kazan and Dynamo Kiev, the result puts Barca top of the table with eight points. 
Rubin are second and Inter third - both on six points - and Dynamo have five. 
With injuries to key forwards Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, there were nerves flying around in Barcelona prior to the match.
The Blaugrana had taken only one point from their last two European games and faced the prospect of becoming the first holders since the inaugural Champions League in 1993 to be eliminated at the group stage of the tournament.
Messi and Ibrahimovic were ultimately restricted to the bench, kept in reserve should Pep Guardiola have need of his superstars later in the match.
However he need not have worried: led by the silky-skilled Andres Iniesta, the home side were too good for Jose Mourinho's Inter team on the night.
http://eurosport.yahoo.com

Barcelona - Inter

Pep Guardiola has been facing a lots of problems these days. Barca have noticed three consecutive league draws on the road (Valencia, Osasuna, Athletic Bilbao) and left the first place to the worst enemies from Madrid (who will face for the weekend at home in new El Clasico, btw.). Team doesn’t perform well, it’s obvious. Unusually for them, have plenty of problems to score. Leo Messi is completely out of shape. He’s also injured and predictions are he won’t play. Ibrahimovic is surely more expensive than Eto’o, but he can not reach the same number of goals as Cameronian, so far. As Messi, he’s also injured but is expected to appear. Eric Abidal and Yaya Toure have both been diagnosed with the H1N1 flu virus and are isolated. Rafa Marquez is ill, but it has been discerned that the Mexican does not have Influenza A, and depending on his progress, he may be able to play. And one long term injury - Gabriel Milito! Lack of result here would mean Barca will fight for progress in the last round against Dynamo Kiev on the road!


Inter keep the absolute domination in domain frames, have noticed 10 wins and just a single defeat in opening 13 rounds and are in run of 10 games without a defeat. Problem is, however, Massimo Moratti wants a Champions League trophy and it has been well explained to Jose Mourinho. Despite the tiny achievement in past four group rounds, three draws (and one win), Inter hold the first position in group with a point more than Barca and are in good position. Win in Spain would practically secure the progress and first place, while draw would leave the decision for the last round and game at Meazza against Rubin Kazan. Mourinho is well aware the keeping a draw at Camp Nou would be a suicidal mission. He’s also aware about the moment where the Spanish giant is. Oppositely, his lads have been playing in a great shape and he hasn’t any injury worries as well. If Inter win, that will push the title defender very close to elimination. Answer on Barca’s attacks will be tight formation and waiting for some counter attack. And Samuel Eto'o will have another opportunity to prove his departure from Barcelona was harsh.

Beside the importance that game brings for Italians, I have the impression this is also a test of maturity for Mourinho. A big win would return him on the big scene, while defeat would move him closer to the exit door from Meazza. I give a small advantage to Italians, but Barca will attack anyway. However, goals shouldn’t miss. Pinnacle offer 2.10. Over.

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Tuesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola insists the club will not be forced to sell striker Carlton Cole in January, despite interest in the £20m-rated player from Manchester United and Liverpool.(The Sun) 
Chelsea have dropped out of the running to sign Benfica's Ángel Di María after balking at the £36m asking price, leaving the way open for the Argentine winger to join Manchester City next summer.(Daily Telegraph) 
Birmingham's £4m bid for Standard Liege's Serbian striker Milan Jovanovic has collapsed, leaving Manchester United, Tottenham, Aston Villa and Everton to battle it out for his signature.(Daily Mirror) 
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce is willing to listen to offers for defender Anton Ferdinand and Spurs are believed to be preparing a £6m bid. (Various) 
Manchester City have moved a step closer to signing QPR's Raheem Sterling after the young forward notified Rangers of his desire to leave.(Daily Mirror) 
Nottingham Forest are planning a £3m move for Tottenham defender Gareth Bale.(Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Los Angeles Galaxy and England midfielder David Beckham is struggling to be fit for his New Year move to AC Milan after needing three cortisone injections in his right ankle before Sunday's MLS Cup Final defeat to Real Salt Lake.(The Sun) 
Beckham is ready to move into club ownership after expressing his wish to buy a Major League Soccer team. He has the right to invest in a future franchise as part of his deal to join Galaxy in 2007.(Daily Mirror)
Liverpool midfielder Ryan Babel says he will leave the club in January if he is not given more opportunities in the first team by manager Rafael Benitez. "I have tried to talk to the manager but it isn't of any use," admitted Babel."(The Sun) 
Real Madrid forward Kaka has revealed that he turned down a move to Chelsea in the summer in order to complete his dream move to the Bernabeu. (Daily Mail) 
Bolton manager Gary Megson has rounded on some of his players, accusing them of trying to destabilise the club. The Trotters are currently in the Premier League relegation zone following three successive defeats. (Various)
Tottenham defender Jonathan Woodgate has admitted he has no chance of representing England at next year's World Cup in South Africa because of his persistent injury woes.(Daily Mirror) 
Ipswich have dismissed speculation that their manager Roy Keane is on the brink of being sacked. A club spokesman said: "The story in a national newspaper that our manager is about to leave is complete and utter nonsense.(Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal midfielder Alex Song has agreed to sign a new contract that will keep him at the Emirates until 2015.(The Sun) 

AND FINALLY

Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun has revealed that his recent injuries were treated by Serbian healer Marijana Kovacevic with human placenta. Benayoun's team-mate Glen Johnson, Arsenal's Robin van Persie and Chelsea's Frank Lampard have all recently been treated with what was believed to be horse placenta.(The Sun) 
Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe says that watching Spurs coach Clive Allen in action during his playing days on YouTube helped him claim his five-goal haul during the 9-1 win over Wigan on Sunday.(Daily Mirror)
www.bbc.co.uk

Monday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Chelsea are hoping to win the race with Real Madrid for Bayern Munich's £45m-rated French midfielder Franck Ribery in January.(The Sun) 
The Blues' pursuit of Ribery has been given a boost by Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness conceding the player will leave the German club if he does not believe they are ambitious enough.(Daily Mail) 
Bayern have revealed that they turned down a £70m bid from Chelsea for Ribery in the summer. (Daily Star)
AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso - a target for Manchester City - has no intention of leaving the Italian club, according to their coach Leonardo. (Daily Mail) 
Derby want to sign Leicester striker DJ Campbell on loan before the window for short-term deals closes later this week.(The Sun) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is facing a fight to keep his Dutch coach Rene Meulensteen, with wealthy Qatar desperate to appoint him as their national boss.(Daily Mirror) 
Liverpool face an injury crisis ahead of their must-win Champions League match with Hungarian side Debrecen on Tuesday, with major doubts over the fitness of Glen Johnson, Daniel Agger, Ryan Babel, Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard and Javier Mascherano. The Reds are already without striker Fernando Torres.(Daily Mirror )
Cash-strapped Charlton may be forced to sell a number of players, including star midfielder Jonjo Shelvey, this January as their financial woes increase. The club may also face administration next summer if a new investor is not found.(Daily Mirror) 
Ipswich boss Roy Keane is on the brink of being sacked by the Suffolk club following a series of meetings on Sunday regarding his future. Town currently sit second bottom of the Championship. (Daily Star) 
Manchester United defender Gary Neville says that a lack of strength in depth could ultimately prove England's undoing at the World Cup in South Africa next year.(Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that his side "lacked desire and sharpness" as they fell to a 1-0 defeat at Sunderland on Saturday.(Daily Mirror) 

AND FINALLY

Cleaners in Ireland have decided their Henry vacuum cleaners really suck - after Thierry Henry's handball ended the nation's World Cup dream. Angry workers can't bear to look at the smiley-faced machines. Some have painted out the word "Henry" while others have daubed over its cheerful face.(The Sun) 
Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe has revealed that a change of boots before the game with Wigan on Sunday helped him to score five in Spurs' 9-1 win.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester United defender Gary Neville has joined his manager Alex Ferguson in blasting players who rely entirely on their agents and said: "A player doesn't need to pay between five and 15% of his wages to a guy to set up a bank account or buy him a new fridge." (Various)
Damien Duff's Fulham team-mates have been helping him get over his World Cup heartache following the Republic of Ireland's defeat by France in the play-offs by taking the mickey out of the winger. "He likes to take the mickey, so he is getting a bit back," said Cottagers midfielder Jonathan Greening. "But he is a great character and he will bounce back." (Various)
www.bbc.co.uk

Saturday's epilogue

Leicester 1 - 0 Plymouth

Andy King's injury-time winner ensured that Leicester stay in touch with the Championship leaders and that Plymouth slip back into the bottom three.
With the Foxes dominating the early exchanges, Yann Kermorgant and Matt Fryatt both had efforts that went wide. 
The hosts' dominance continued into the second half, but they were given a fright by Alan Gow's long-range shot. 
A stalemate loomed, but King pounced after Dany N'Guessan's shot was blocked to give City all three points. 
Leicester manager Nigel Pearson: 
"We tried to win throughout while Plymouth would have been happy with a point. 
"We deserved our three points, although we weren't at our best. 
"We nicked it late on, but that's the nature of football. I'm delighted for the players because their application was first class." 
Plymouth manager Paul Sturrock told BBC Radio Devon:
"It's a huge kick in the teeth for everybody involved. 
"The positives are that they are a team in the top six, they have got some special players, and we have handled them for 90 minutes. 
"It was always going to be a hard game to create too many chances."

.

Birmingham 1 - 0 Fulham

.

A clever goal from Lee Bowyer earned Birmingham victory over Fulham as Alex McLeish's men extended their unbeaten run to four matches.
Bowyer latched on to James McFadden's lofted pass before cushioning the ball past Mark Schwarzer for his fourth goal of the season. 
Fulham dominated the second half and almost levelled when Clint Dempsey's header was tipped over by Joe Hart. 
But Birmingham held firm to inflict Fulham's first loss in six games. 
It was another impressive performance from McLeish's side, who have now accrued 15 points from 13 games to sit comfortably in mid-table. 
The Scotsman has moulded a side that is difficult to beat and, in McFadden and Bowyer, has players capable of unlocking tight defences. 
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson left Damien Duff on the bench following his midweek exertions with the Republic of Ireland. Zoltan Gera took his place on the left, with Simon Davies making his first start of the season following an ankle injury at Erik Nevland's expense.
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson: 
"We did our very best to score a goal but when we did get an opportunity the goalkeeper was in fine form or someone got in a good block. 
"I don't think we could have had more possession, more crosses or corners, it was just a question of the ball not falling kindly enough. 
"We had a few players missing but the players who came in did really well." 
Birmingham manager Alex McLeish:
"I'm delighted because we played a tough game today. 
"Sometimes it wasn't too pretty. We've played better than that and lost games but we showed we can win a match with strength and resilience. 
"As long as they keep their feet on the ground and show the same level of resilience and application we can have a good season."
www.bbc.co.uk

Leicester City - Plymouth Argyle

Foxes started their returning season in Championship in a great manner and after some excellent results occupied high position. Leicester, however got two slaps from the direct opponents for the play-off zone. First, lost at their fortress – Walkers Stadium against Preston (1-2). Lads responded very well with the run of six games unbeaten, four wins and two draws. Then, in last round another shock. West Brom walked away with three points and again 1-2. In the days after the game, players were annoyed because the international brake that took them a chance to bounce back immediately. Good side is manager Nigel Pearson had enough time to stabilize the squad and focus them to pre-season target, play-off. Captain, Matt Oakley, misses the game as he is suspended after picking up five yellow cards, but his fellow midfielder Andy King returns in the squad after he recovered from an arm injury. 

.

Plymouth made a run of three games without a defeat. Home draw against drowning Kean and Ipswich wasn’t unexpected, but making a nightmare from Strachan’s debut in Boro really was. 1-0 win at Riverside gave them the wings and lads defeated Doncaster (2-1) at home in next round. Manager Paul Sturrock is keen to stick with the formula that has provided two excellent wins, but his plans, however, may be disrupted by injury concerns over two of the heroes from those victories. Plymouth biggest strength are counter attacks through the flanks and excellent execution by Rory Fallon. Appearance of both wingers, Alan Judge and Craig Noone, will need to be assessed. I guess one will play. Also, Fallon scored the winning goal for his New Zealand and led them to WC. Long trip and lack of focus could reflect on his performance at Walkers. On-loan right-back, David Gray, will have a late fitness test, while captain Carl Fletcher is available again after serving a one-match ban.

.

Foxes will be focused and very serious. This could be a key game for them. Failure would dedicate their fate to the middle of the table, while win would returned them to the way for play-off. Difference in quality is obvious, Walkers is one of the worst place for visiting and despite Leicester have six wins with a single goal margin, I expect a convincing win. So, home win (1.76 at Pinnacle) and handicap as a gamble. Correct score 2-0.

.

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Birmingham City - Fulham

After big injury crisis that caused six competitive defeats in seven games, Alex McLeish has stabilized the squad and although still six players are sidelined they have been noticing a significant improvement in performances. Also, new owner has brought a financial stability and better dressing room atmosphere. As a result, Blues have noticed three league game without a defeat. Bad run was ended against very good Sunderland at St Andrew's (2-1). Then another good result reflected in draw vs. Man.City also at home (0-0) with penalty kick missed. And last encounter was the best performance this season. 2-2 draw at Enfield where Birmingham were very close to win as conceded a late goal from penalty after David Ngog's diving. International brake came in the right time for them to mentally prepare for not so attractive opponent as those three. Key midfielder Barry Ferguson returns to the squad after serving out his one game suspension against Liverpool, while another midfielder Keith Fahey is also back in contention after recovering from an ankle knock. David Murphy (defense), Teemu Tainio (midfield), Garry O'Connor (forward) and Martin Taylor (defense) all miss out.

Roy Hodgson is doing a very good job at Craven Cottage as Fulham made a run of five consecutive games without a defeat. Two home wins (Hull City 2-0 and Liverpool 3-1) and three draws on the road (West Ham United 2-2, Man.City 2-2 (returned from 0-2) and Wigan Athletic 1-1). The biggest problem for Hodgson is “short bench” as he hasn’t enough number of players to play in three competitions. And some key players have been involved in international games. Key winger, Damien Duff, suffered a disaster in France and the question is how much he can focus on Birmingham. Two games also played Pantsil, Dikgacoi and Stephen Kelly. Skipper Danny Murphy and striker Andrew Johnson will be back in training process next week, while excellent striker Diomansy Kamara will also miss the game. American midfielder Clint Dempsey has been playing in excellent shape, scoring three times in last three games. However, I see Fulham as an average Premier League side and current 11th place as the best possible achievement this season.

My sympathy is definitely on home side. Expect the same commitment as in previous games and fight for all three points. Fulham so far is tough side to beat and their three consecutive draws on the road point a decent possibility of another one. So, dnb 1 (about 1.80) and small gamble on home win (Pinnacle 2.50).
.
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Saturday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Everton's Jack Rodwell is a hot tip to end up in a Manchester United shirt sooner or later - according to his old boss at Birkdale United, at least.(Daily Mail) 
But Rodwell's current manager, David Moyes, insists the 18-year-old is going nowhere.(Daily Telegraph) 
Inter Milan are keen to hijack Chelsea's £40m move for Atletico Madrid star Sergio Aguero.(The Sun) 
West Ham will not be forced into the sale of stars like Carlton Cole, Valon Behrami and Robert Green in January - but skipper Matthew Upson's future is less certain.(Daily Telegraph) 
Roman Pavlyuchenko, desperate to leave Tottenham with first-team chances limited, has been told he will not be allowed to sign for Roma on the cheap.(Daily Mirror) 
Mark Hughes hopes his Manchester City side impress Fernando Torres during their visit to Liverpool, as the Blues boss is keen to sign the striker in January.(Independent) 
And, if City make a move for Barcelona right-back Dani Alves, Aston Villa will come in for Micah Richards.(Daily Mirror) 
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish will make a January swoop for Rangers pair Steven Davis and Kris Boyd.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester United will not let goalkeeper Ben Foster go out on loan, despite being third choice for his club.(The Guardian) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Gael Kakuta, the 18-year-old cause of Chelsea's recent suspended transfer ban, is ready to make his debut from the bench against Wolves.(Daily Mail) 
Kakuta's boss at Chelsea, Carlo Ancelotti, has vowed to fine any of his players who show dissent to officials.(Daily Express) 
Meanwhile, Guus Hiddink is planning to quit his job as Russia coach having failed to reach the World Cup, with a return to Chelsea as technical director in mind.(The Guardian) 

AND FINALLY

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard is the latest convert to the Serbian school of horse placenta massage, having flown to Belgrade seeking treatment for a thigh injury.(Various)
Sam Allardyce says he left Bolton Wanderers over their lack of ambition, and knows he could manage "any team in the world".(Daily Express) 
In the wake of Thierry Henry's handball, Fifa may fast-track the introduction of two additional referees in each match in time for the World Cup, leading to a total of five officials on the pitch. (The Guardian) 
Eric Cantona "would have hit" Henry if he had been wronged in similar fashion by his fellow French star.(The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Friday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has doubts as to whether to sign Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero as he weighs up if the Argentine is worth £40m.(Daily Mirror) 
Chelsea are willing to sign Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson for £4m and loan him back to the Teesside outfit.(Daily Mirror) 
Bolton are lining up a £7m January transfer window bid for Celtic midfielder Scott Brown.(Daily Mirror) 
Portsmouth manager Paul Hart is not keen on signing striker Amr Zaki, who spent a spell on loan at Wigan, even though a fee has been agreed with Egyptian club Zamalek. (The Sun) 
Ipswich are weighing up a move for West Ham midfielder Kieron Dyer. (Daily Telegraph)

OTHER GOSSIP

France striker Thierry Henry was told by his former manager Arsene Wenger that he should have owned up to his handball against the Republic of Ireland.(Daily Mirror) 
Hull trio Kevin Kilbane, Paul McShane and Stephen Hunt - all in the Republic of Ireland squad for the controversial game in France - have been urged to see a sports psychologist by club manager Phil Brown. (Daily Express) 
England's 2018 World Cup bid team are unlikely to get any more financial support from the Premier League.(Guardian) 
Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy fears his career could be over in two years because of his knee problems.(Times) 
Newcastle boss Chris Hughton is concerned over Shola Ameobi opting to play for Nigeria and being ruled out during the African Cup of Nations.(Daily Star) 
Former Birmingham owner David Gold could end his interest in buying West Ham after opening talks to purchase Crystal Palace. (Daily Star) 

AND FINALLY

In the fall-out from Henry's handball, ex-Republic of Ireland boss Mick McCarthy says Fifa stands for Forget Irish Football Altogether. He also says, if he was Richard Dunne, he would not have let Henry sit next to him on the pitch after the game. (The Sun) 
Former Manchester United striker Andrew Cole says the Old Trafford club's manager Sir Alex Ferguson made a mistake in not signing Liverpool star Fernando Torres - and adds that his opinion is backed up by United's players.(Daily Star)
www.bbc.co.uk

Thursday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester City forward Robinho has told his team-mates that he wants to quit the club to join Spanish giants Barcelona. (Daily Mirror) 
Tottenham and Portsmouth are stepping up their pursuit of Marseille winger Hatem Ben Arfa. (The Sun) 
Tottenham could also bid for former Portsmouth and current Al-Arabi striker Lomana LuaLua.(The Sun) 
Chelsea have been told that Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero will cost them £50m.(Daily Mirror) 
Meanwhile, Napoli insist that Chelsea have not made a bid for £25m-rated midfielder Marek Hamsik. (The Sun) 
Liverpool have swooped to sign 14-year-old forward Dave Moli from Blue Square Premier side Luton. (The Sun) 
Liverpool, Tottenham and Fulham are monitoring Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy's situation after the Dutchman said he would consider a Premier League return.(Daily Star) 
Gillingham have told Wolves they will have to pay more than £1.5m to land Canadian striker Simeon Jackson.(The Sun) 
Birmingham are lining up a £1.5m raid on local rivals West Brom for midfielder Graham Dorrans. (Daily Mirror) 
Aston Villa are set to part company with defender Nicky Shorey and midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker in the January transfer window. (Daily Star) 
Preston are lining up a January loan move for Stoke winger Michael Tonge. (The Sun)
Celtic midfielder Simon Ferry is desperate to extend his loan stay at League One side Swindon. (The Sun) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Injured Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has been told he will not play football again this year. (The Sun) 
Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that he will not quit the club to manage Italy after rumours that current Azzurri boss Marcello Lippi will quit after the World Cup. (Daily Mirror) 
Fulham are set to spend £9m to secure the long-term services of manager Roy Hodgson and defender Brede Hangeland. (The Sun) 
Former Birmingham chief David Sullivan is plotting a takeover of League One Charlton if his bid to buy West Ham fails. (Daily Mirror) 
Manchester City midfielder Vincent Kompany has been expelled from Belgium's squad because of poor timekeeping. (The Guardian) 

AND FINALLY

It has emerged that England and Liverpool defender Glen Johnson is the latest Premier League player to be receiving the same horse-placenta treatment in Serbia as Arsenal striker Robin van Persie.(The Sun) 
The coaching skills of former Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer are to be offered to a Sunday league football side as part of Rio Ferdinand's charity auction. (The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Slovenia 1-0 Russia

Slovenia beat Russia 1-0 in the second leg of their play-off at the Petrol Arena to dump Guus Hiddink's side out of the 2010 World Cup and seal their progression to South Africa.
Matjaz Kek's side, who are ranked 49th in the world, sealed their place in the finals after Zlatko Dedic (pictured) netted the game's solitary goal in the 44th minute.
The compact ground provided a vociferous atmosphere and helped Slovenia subdue their opponents early on before Russia lost their composure in the second half with two men sent off.
Hiddink's side looked devoid of ideas in attack as Slovenia defended stoutly in front of their fervent supporters and substitute Alexander Kerzhakov's needless red card in the second half epitomised Russia's frustration.
To compound the issue, Yuri Zhirkov received a second yellow card for a bizarre push on a Slovenia substitute warming up on the touchline as Russia's World Cup dreams were shattered.
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Betting Strategies (Part 5) – Online Casino

As a matter of fact, any online casino is programmed to make profit. The online casino games are strictly divided into the chance games and tactic games. 

The fist category includes the games with clear occasional odds and outcomes: roulette, number lotteries, bingo. It means, you are not able to influence the process and result implying your skill. Playing American roulette, casino's advantage is 5.26% over the gamblers. Concerning European roulette, odds make 2.7%.

The second category games provide an opportunity to foresee the outcome and control it thanks to following proper casino strategies. The online casino strategies are based on the mathematic calculations and probability theory. Such strategies work in poker, blackjack, races, and sport events. To compare, casino advantage in poker could vary from 1% to 5% and it depends on skill and kind of the game (ex, Holdem Poker or Five Stud Poker). At the same time, odds could become lower or higher during the session.

 

Blackjack

Blackjack is a game found in nearly every casino in the world, and in virtually every online casino as well. Though the game may look complicated, all you really need to be able to do in order to play blackjack is add up to 21.

Even with a good blackjack strategy, you cannot enter a blackjack game and expect to win - due to the house edge. Make a budget. Before you start playing, decide how much you can spend. Consider this amount gone.

Feels uncomfortable? Then you probably need to cut down your blackjack budget. Also decide how much you will bet on each hand. The higher you play, the shorter your session will last, on average. To have a long session, make small bets. If you want to play a short game with maximum variance, go for the big bets. When your budget is met, quit playing. This is the defining line between being a successful blackjack player and getting yourself into serious trouble.

 

Slots

Slots are among the simplest games in the casino to play, which is part of their appeal to many casino players, both in live casinos and online. There are no rules or techniques you need to understand in order to play. In fact, you can start playing right away with little instruction. If you want to give yourself the best chance of winning at slots, or at least of giving you the most play possible for your gambling dollar, here are some simple tips to follow.

Pick a slot machine that suits your bank roll. The higher bets you make, in comparison to your budget, the sooner it will be time to call it a day.

When you have figured out a betting level that suits your wallet, go one notch lower still and get into the habit of always making max-coin bets. Instead of betting one coin of $1, bet the maximum number of quarters. Most of the time, there is no difference between these two slots strategies, but to qualify for the really high payouts, you must bet max coins. On the whole, you play with slightly better odds if you bet max coins.

Understand the concept of pay lines. If you play max coins on one pay line out of 5, you will not win the largest payouts or the progressive jackpot. In order to hit the biggest payouts possible, you must play not only max coins but also max pay lines. Obviously, this will cost a lot more, so you need to adjust the coin nomination even further downwards. Rather than playing single coins on a $1 machine, you would play, for instance, four coins and 5 lines on a 5 cents machine to have the corresponding amount of fun.

Consider using the bonus rounds offered by some slot machines. That is, a game of its own where you gamble with some or all the coins you just won on the regular spin.

 

Roulette

Playing the European Roulette is a much better strategy for you as a player. Since it has only a single zero rather than a single and a double zero as on the American Roulette wheel, but gives identical payouts, your winning chances are actually twice as high when playing the European Roulette. A good tip is to make a spending budget before you start playing. Don't parlay your bets! That is, don't leave your previous bet and the chips you just won on the table for the next spin of the wheel. Doing so is the perfect roulette strategy for losing your money faster. Rake in your winnings and keep playing your best game! If you bet on Even or any other outside bet, you will win time and time again, but your individual winnings will be minuscule, and your chip stack will not see any dramatic changes. You can use this insight to your advantage. For example, if you have to make a certain number of bets to clear an online gambling bonus, a good tip may be to choose a low-variance betting pattern.

 

Video Poker

Can you play video poker to win? Actually, you can. Video poker is one of the few casino games you can beat. You won't necessarily be able to become a professional video poker player, but if you're looking for the one casino game besides traditional poker where you can get positive expected value, video poker may be your game.

While "Jacks or Better" video poker machines offer a minimal House edge and are the most common, they do not favor the player. If you want to try to get an edge in video poker, you'll need to find a "Deuces Wild" machine, where a deuce can be any card.

While a full pay Jacks or Better machine pays nine coins for a full house and six coins for a flush, the payouts for Deuces Wild machines are much lower because it is so much easier to make a hand. For deuces wild, you'll be looking to get paid nine coins for a straight flush and five for four of a kind.

To get the biggest edge, you have to play perfectly. You can find strategy tables online that will tell you exactly what to do in every situation. You should have the strategy guide open while you play online. Print out a copy and take it with you, as the strategy can get complicated at certain points.

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