Peterborough are still looking for their first win in the Championship this season after a draw with 10-man Crystal Palace at London Road Stadium.
Winger Shaun Batt gave the hosts the lead on 53 minutes, but Alan Lee bundled in an equaliser for Neil Warnock's side 11 minutes later.
Palace defender Paddy McCarthy was sent off with 16 minutes remaining for a second bookable offence.
Posh now have only two points from five league games this season.
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Peterborough 1-1 Crystal Palace
Peterborough Utd. - Crystal Palace
Peterborough are noticing not so good debut in second tier of English football. Just one point from possible 12. They made three defeats, WBA 2-3 at home and Derby County 1-2 and Preston North End 0-2 away. Only point came from encounter against Sheffield Wednesday at home (1-1). Club looks nearly the same like in previous season, without any big signing and it seems they simply don’t possess enough quality for this level of competition. Defense line looks extremely shaky so far. Usually they concede a goal in early stage and rest of the game opponent just keep the result and wait for a new error of Posh’s defense. Considering all clubs in Championship, Peterborough showed the least quality in opening four rounds and I see them as the most serious contenders for dropping into League One. Additional problem for boss Darren Ferguson is “short bench”, first eleven don’t have adequate substitutes and Posh start to face with injury problems. They hope to include winger Chris Whelpdale, who missed the start of the season following a hernia operation. But, defenders Tommy Williams (groin) and Jamie Day (ankle) are not expected to feature. Hosts will surely have their bright moments this season, but today’s visitors are not a team for a first win.
Crystal Palace made another unconvincing start of the season. One win (Ipswich Town 3-1, away), one draw (Plymouth Argyle 1-1, at home) and two defeats (Bristol City 0-1 away and Newcastle 0-2 at home). Despite not so good results in the first four rounds, Eagles show some potential. They put an impressive display against Ipswich and in Carling Cup against Man.City were equal in first 45 minutes (conceded twice in second half). They have some very talented players and surely have a quality for a middle of the table (at least), but biggest problem is their youth which doesn’t allow any consistency in results. Luck of experience was obvious against Newcastle, where they conceded a goal at the start (2nd minute), very soon got another one and game was finished. Striker Victor Moses is doubtful for Crystal Palace after suffering an ankle injury during the Carling Cup defeat, while skipper Shaun Derry and excellent midfielder Darren Ambrose should play despite sickness bugs. Striker Stern John (elbow) is still sidelined. Boss Neil Warnock is one of the best managers in Championship, he surely knows how to mentally prepare his young players and Eagles will go for all three points here.
I don’t agree with a slight advantage that bookies gave to home side and think visitors are closer to victory at London Road. However, half of the 16 league matches between these clubs have ended in draws and I’ll cover a possibility of another one with Asian handicap. With a more than decent odd, it definitely worth a bet. So, C.Palace (0.0), 2.12 at Pinnacle.
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Monday's gossip column
BREAKING GOSSIP
Hull striker Daniel Cousin could be on his way to Burnley after the player's agent claimed an approach for a loan deal had been made. (Press Association)
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has ruled out the possibility of Robinho joining the European champions. (Press Association)
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Tottenham, Sunderland and Stoke are locked in a three-way battle to sign Portsmouth goalkeeper David James before the transfer deadline. (Daily Mirror)
Spurs will offer £8m to capture both James and Pompey midfielder Niko Kranjcar. (Daily Mail)
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is still hopefully of concluding deals to bring Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh and Inter Milan's former Gunners midfielder Patrick Vieira to the Emirates. (Daily Mirror)
West Ham and Wolves are both in talks to sign Valencia's 6ft 7in Serbian striker Nikola Zigic. (The Sun)
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill wants to sign either Matthew Upson or James Collins from West Ham before Tuesday's deadline. (Daily Mail)
Stoke are keen on bringing Manchester City winger Martin Petrov to the Britannia Stadium, but could face competition for his signature from Tottenham. (Daily Star)
Everton are weighing up a move for Coventry goalkeeper Keiren Westwood. (The Sun)
Sunderland are in talks with Hull over a £9m swap deal for defender Michael Turner. The transfer could see Frazier Campbell move in the opposite direction. (Daily Mirror)
Portsmouth are hoping to sign Aston Villa left-back Nicky Shorey. (The Sun)
Everton's £6m-move for Atletico Madrid defender Johnny Heitinga is in danger of collapsing over the player's large wage demands. (Daily Mirror)
Blackburn have turned down a bid from Olympiakos for Norwegian winger Morten Gamst Pedersen. (The Sun)
Newcastle's Andy Carroll could be set for a surprise exit from St James' Park with Bolton and Wolves keen on the young striker. (Daily Mirror)
Bolton are hoping to complete the loan signing of Nantes' Crotian forward Ivan Klasnic on Monday. (The Sun)
Nottingham Forest are keen to sign Sunderland defender Nyron Nosworthy on loan. (Daily Mirror)
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy is battling to rush through a loan deal for Rapid Vienna striker Stefan Maierhofer. (Daily Mirror)
Derby defender Jordan Stewart is in talks with Sheffield United over a possible move to Bramall Lane. (Daily Mirror)
OTHER GOSSIP
Chelsea defender John Terry will become the highest-paid player in the country after agreeing a new £8m-a-year deal with the London club. (The Sun)
Former Portsmouth boss Tony Adams has emerged as the top target to fill the hot seat at Championship side Barnsley. (The Sun)
Everton manager David Moyes has vowed to axe some of his Goodison flops following their poor start to the season. (The Sun)
The FA are to clamp down on footballers who goad rival supporters following a number of incidents this week of players criticised for celebrating in front of opposition fans. (The Sun)
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson says he would love to coach Great Britain's 2012 Olympic team. (Daily Mirror)
AND FINALLY
Arsenal's Arsene Wenger wasn't the only manager sent to the stands over the weekend. Former England boss Steve McClaren, now with FC Twente in Holland, suffered the same fate in his side's 1-1 draw with Feyenoord on Sunday. (Daily Star)
Tranmere manager John Barnes (on photo) and his number two Jason McAteer have been nicknamed "Dumb and Dumber" by their own players. (The Sun)
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Sunday's gossip column
BREAKING GOSSIP
Everton boss David Moyes is hoping he will given more funds by the club to strengthen his squad before the close of the transfer window on Tuesday. (Sky Sports)
West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola has confirmed Aston Villa have shown an interest in signing James Collins. (Football 365)
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Barcelona remain determined to sign Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas, with the European champions' president Joan Laporta saying that his club "love" the Spanish international. (News of the World)
The Gunners are set to make one final attempt to sign Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh. (Sunday Mirror)
Arsenal are lining up a move for FK Bubamara's 15-year-old Serbian forward Veljko Batrovic, dubbed the new Lionel Messi. (News of the World)
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp will make a last-ditch bid to bring Portsmouth keeper David James to White Hart Lane for £2m before the transfer deadline. (News of the World)
Notts County director of football Sven Goran Eriksson wants to bring former Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg and Italian striker Christian Vieri to Meadow Lane. (News of the World)
Notts County are also interested in recruiting striker Kanu whose one-month contract with Portsmouth is due to expire soon. (Sunday Mirror)
Manchester United have failed in a bid to sign midfielder Stephen Ireland from rivals Manchester City. (Sunday Mirror)
Hull are set to move again for striker Fraizer Campbell, who rejected them in favour of a summer move to Sunderland but may well be available as part of a deal that sees Tigers' defender Michael Turner move to Wearside. (People)
Burnley are interested in signing out-of-favour Hull striker Daniel Cousin. (The People)
Blackburn are set to land Manchester City striker Benjani in £2m deal. (Sunday Mirror)
Everton have told Newcastle they must pay £3m if they want to sign striker James Vaughan. (People)
Much-coveted Newcastle defender Steven Taylor says he wants to stay with the Championship club. (Sunday Mirror)
Portsmouth are keen to bring in Manchester City midfielder Michael Johnson and Aston Villa defender Nicky Shorey on loan. (People)
Portsmouth are also set to sign Manchester City's Israeli defender Tal Ben Haim as replacement for Sylvain Distin, who has joined Everton. (Sunday Mirror)
Eider Gudjohnsen has rejected an offer from Manchester City and three other Premier League clubs and is set to sign for French side Monaco. (Sunday Mirror)
Everton manager David Moyes is keen to sign Tottenham midfielder David Bentley for £10m. (Sunday Mirror)
Everton are closing in on the signing of £6m-rated Atletico Madrid defender Johnny Heitinga. (Mail on Sunday)
.
An American consortium is closing in on a deal to buy Newcastle United and they are set to restore Geordie legend Alan Shearer to the manager's office. (Sunday Mirror)
Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi says that the internal strife at the club has caused the players to pull together, resulting in their positive start to the season. (News of the World)
Manchester City want to appoint former Manchester United number two Brian Kidd to their backroom staff. (News of the World)
Arsenal will offer manager Arsene Wenger a new deal designed to keep him at the club for the rest of his career. (News of the World)
Defender John Terry has signed a new contract at Chelsea worth £40m, with the England man picking up £160,000 a week. (News of the World)
Another defender in the money is Richard Dunne, who has secured a £6m golden farewell from Manchester City ahead of his proposed move to Aston Villa. (Sunday Express)
Tottenham midfielder Aaron Lennon will be rewarded for his impressive start to the season with inclusion in Fabio Capello's England squad to face Slovenia and Croatia. (Independent)
Tottenham striker Peter Crouch has vowed to fight his way back into the England side for the 2010 World Cup. (Sunday Mirror)
Another player eyeing an England spot is Wigan defender Titus Bramble, who has the backing of Latics manager Roberto Martinez. (Sunday Mirror)
Manchester City and England Under-21 defender Nedum Onuoha is considering an offer to play for Nigeria. (Sunday Mirror)
Aston Villa striker John Carew has rubbished rumours of a rift between himself and Villa manager Martin O'Neill. (Sunday Mirror)
AND FINALLY
Manchester City midfielder Stephen Ireland has kept pace with the club's new expensive signings by undertaking a punishing summer fitness regime, sprinting up and down hills in Derbyshire until midnight and doing martial arts. (Mail on Sunday)
Newcastle defender Jose Enrique says United are a "crazy club" and not even Jose Mourinho could manage them. (Sunday Mirror)
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Saturday
Stoke 1 - 0 Sunderland
.
Dave Kitson's strike just before half-time earned Stoke victory against Sunderland at the Britannia Stadium.
The former Reading player guided his effort past Craig Gordon after a scramble in the area.
Stoke had the best of the chances, with Liam Lawrence twice having his goalbound shots blocked - first by goalkeeper Gordon then Phil Bardsley.
Sunderland striker Darren Bent went close with a 20-yard shot and Bardsley forced a save from Thomas Sorensen.
The match was a fairly tepid affair until the last 10 minutes of the first half.
The efforts worthy of a mention were that of Kitson's, a snapshot over the bar from eight yards, and Bent's angled shot at the other end which was bravely blocked by Ryan Shawcross.
Apart from those half-chances, Sunderland had dealt relatively well with Rory Delap's long throw-ins while Shawcross and Abdoulaye Faye had nullified the double threat of Bent and Kenwyne Jones.
But with the interval approaching, clear chances increased in frequency.
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Sheff Utd 2 - 2 West Brom
West Brom went top of the Championship despite a late penalty from David Cotterill salvaging a point for Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
Roman Bednar gave the Baggies the lead after the break with a glancing header.
Ched Evans quickly levelled with another fine header before Bednar turned Matthew Kilgallon and fired home in style to restore the advantage.
But Shaun Cummings brought down Darius Henderson in the dying moments, allowing Cotterill to steal a point.
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Sheffield United - WBA
United are noticing very promising start of new campaign in Championship. It seems elimination from Burnley in last play-off didn’t discourage the team and lads with eight points from four introducing rounds are announcing another battle for promotion. The Blades made two draws, opening 0-0 vs. Middlesbrough away and unlucky 1-1 against Leicester at home. Two wins came from the encounters against Watford (2-0) at home and Reading (3-1) on the road. United put excellent display at Madejski and after first 20 minutes (when they conceded a goal) took a game in own hands and score three times for a big win. Team has an iron defense and very strong midfield, but little lack in attacking line, as new signing Ched Evans still hasn’t started to repay 3 mill. pounds investment. However, that problem is more obvious against weaker rivals that are focused on defense. After missing the Reading game with tonsillitis, key midfielder Brian Howard is doubtful. The same situation is with on-loan winger Keith Treacy who limped off at Madejski. Home side is undefeated in last nine league games at their Bramall Lane (six wins and three draws).
After relegation from Premier, the Baggies seem decisive to make an immediate return. Boss Roberto Di Matteo has good reason to feel encouraged after club collected ten points from four games. Opening draw against another “ex Premier” – Newcastle (1-1) was an introduction to three consecutive league wins. Two on the road (Nottingham Forest 1-0 and Peterborough United 3-2) and one at home (Ipswich 2-0). In last game, against Roy Keane’s side, West Brom looked superior. Two easy hits, missed penalty and full domination during the entire game are probably just a small piece of their potential. But two away victories have been noticed with a slight touch of luck, as Forest and Peterborough missed a bunch opportunities to get at least a point. West Brom have a lots of problems with injuries. Defenders Gianni Zuiverloon and Neil Clement, midfielders Filipe Teixeira and James Morrison and striker Ishmael Miller are long time sidelined. With a key midfielder Jonathan Greening’s departure to Fulham, team obviously lost some of their quality. This, however don’t reflect on team’s results, so far. For this game, midfielder Chris Brunt has a problem with a calf strain and is not expected to play, while defender Gonzalo Jara is set to miss out as he awaits international clearance.
British press predict a tough game with small number of goals, as United have some problems in attack, while WBA have injury problems and certainly would be satisfied with a goalless draw. I think, in fact I’m sure United will not lose this, they possess more than enough quality for another big win, feel WBA’s luck are running out and simply follow my instinct. Betfair offer 2.58, Pinnacle 2.50. Clear home win.
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Saturday's gossip column
BREAKING GOSSIP
Sunderland have accepted a bid from Stoke City for defender Danny Collins. (Sky Sports)
New Portsmouth recruit Tommy Smith has put in a good word for his former Watford team-mate Mike Williamson, after the defender was also linked with a move to Fratton Park. (Press Association)
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Everton's bid to complete a loan deal for Valencia's Argentine midfielder Ever Banega (on photo) has hit problems because his club cannot find a replacement for the 21-year-old. (Daily Mail)
But Moyes is set to seal a £5m deal for Atletico Madrid's 25-year-old Dutch defender John Heitinga, who arrives hot on the heels of £5.3m signing Sylvain Distin. (The Sun)
Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate will swoop for Derby striker Rob Hulse to boost his forward line after Tuncay's departure to Stoke. (Daily Mirror)
Tottenham have told Zenit St Petersburg they are ready to accept £10m for striker Roman Pavlyuchenko. (Daily Mail)
Everton will ask Tottenham about taking David Bentley after being quoted £15m for the former Blackburn winger last week. (Daily Mirror)
Bolton could swoop for Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford for £3m, who would be free to leave Elland Road for nothing in the summer. (Independent)
Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has given his blessing for Andriy Shevchenko to leave the club before the close of the transfer window with the Ukrainian striker expected to rejoin his former club Dynamo Kiev. (Times)
Newcastle want Everton striker James Vaughan on loan because Shola Ameobi faces a month on the sidelines with a foot injury. (The Sun)
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is believed to have offered Nyron Nosworthy and Daryl Murphy as part of a deal for Hull defender Michael Turner. (Daily Mail)
Wigan have launched an audacious bid to take Celtic's Australian striker Scott McDonald on loan for the rest of the season. (Daily Record)
Newcastle will attempt to prevent Kevin Nolan from rejoining Bolton Wanderers after Gary Megson announced his intention to take the midfielder on loan. (Northern Echo)
Sunderland could provide England goalkeeper David James with the escape route out of Portsmouth. (Independent)
OTHER GOSSIP
Arsene Wenger has accused UEFA of a witch-hunt after they charged Eduardo with diving in the Champions League clash with Celtic. (The Sun)
Sir Alex Ferguson has warned midfielders Anderson and Michael Carrick their places in the Manchester United squad are not guarenteed and they cannot afford to rest on their laurels. (The Times)
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson is the likely choice to boss Great Britain's 2012 Olympic team and and is becoming a serious contender to succeed Fabio Capello when he leaves the England job.(Daily Mirror)
Fenerbahce's veteran Brazil defender Roberto Carlos has revealed he would like to team up with countryman Ronaldo at Corinthians once his contract at the Turkish club ends. (Goal.com)
Goalkeeper David James will get an England recall at the expense of Paul Robinson. (Daily Star)
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson has admitted he is surprised no club has yet bid for defender Brede Hangeland, but he is still keen to hang on to his prize asset. (Metro)
AND FINALLY
Such is the condition of Ledley King's knees, the only way the Spurs captain can keep fit is by cycling in the gym and having a 20-minute run-out in training the day before a match. (Daily Mail)
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Stoke City - Sunderland
After three rounds in Premier, Stoke already showed they’re capable to secure their status in Premier. Opening win at home (3-0) against new-comers Burnley got the real weight after Burnley defeated Man.Utd. and Everton. Then heavy 0-4 defeat at Enfield (that surely didn’t discourage them) and first point on the road against Birmingham (0-0). So, key of the success is the same like in previous season, winnings at home and grabbing as much points away as it is possible. Last season, only Everton, Chelsea, Man.Utd. and West Ham took all three points from Britannia Stadium (Stoke collected 35 of their 45 points at home). Club’s management is very active in the finish of transfer window. Beside earlier signed Dean Whitehead (ex Sunderland midfielder), German international Robert Huth has completed his transfer to Stoke from Middlesbrough, with Tuncay expected to join him once personal terms are agreed. Also, Sunderland defender Danny Collins is in talks over a potential move to the Potters. It seems the club is a little bit stronger than in previous season and we should expect at least the results at same level. Defender Ryan Shawcross will have a late fitness test, while James Beattie should be fit to play despite limping off against Birmingham with a knee injury. Boss Tony Pulis rested his keys in Cup against Leyton and all will be ready for the game.
The Black Cats have made their best start to a Premier League campaign. Two wins from three games give a faith the club can finish in top half of the table. It is the result of big investments in new players in past two years and the current squad under the lead of Steve Bruce seems very competitive, but surely will need some time to reach their limits. After opening win on the road against Bolton (1-0), Sunderland noticed a defeat at Stamford Bridge (1-3), but team didn’t disappoint with performance. In the last round team made, public judgment is, very lucky win (2-1) against Blackburn at home. During the mid-week, Bruce gave a chance to fringe players vs. Norwich, who used it on the right way and with 4-1 win on the road just additionally raised the confidence in the club. Fit-again goalie Craig Gordon could make his first league appearance since April, with first solution Marton Fulop nursing a heel injury. Mentioned defender Danny Collins, a transfer target for Stoke, is unlikely to be involved in this encounter. As Stoke, Sunderland usually put the better displays at their Stadium of Light than on the road. Last season noticed just three away wins from 19 games and I simply don’t believe they can take three points at Britannia, where btw. they have lost their last two visits.
Considering the players’ individual qualities, Sunderland have a clear advantage. But, Stoke have a home crowd behind, they traditionally notice good results there and visitors are still far from using their full potential. I think hosts will win, but just in case cover a draw with more than decent odd (about 1.74). So, dnb on home side.
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Friday's gossip column
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is keen to swoop for former Portsmouth midfielder Sulley Muntari from Inter Milan, using Jermaine Jenas as bait to lure the Ghana international. (The Sun)
Meanwhile, Redknapp has been told only a cash bid will persuade French club Le Harve to part with midfielder Kevin Anin. (The Sun)
Birmingham are tracking Spurs midfielder Jamie O'Hara as an alternative should their £2.5m move for Sporting Gijon's Michel fall through. (Daily Mail)
Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is considering a move for Feyenoord's Canadian-born Dutch midfielder Jonathan de Guzman, on the recommendation of Chelsea's sporting director, Frank Arnesen. (The Guardian)
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has inquired about the services of Hull centre-back Michael Turner, while Ghana defender John Mensah will arrive at the Stadium of Light on a season-long loan from French club Lyon. (Guardian)
Bruce will offer Nyron Nosworthy and Daryl Murphy plus £6m to land the £12m-rated Turner. (The Sun)
Meanwhile, Bruce is planning another raid on former club Wigan with a £5m bid for left-back Maynor Figueroa. (Daily Mail)
Alan Shearer wants Cardiff's £6m-rated striker Michael Chopra to mark his return as Newcastle boss as part of businessman Barry Moat's takeover at St James's Park. (Daily Star)
The Magpies are discussing a deal for Tottenham left-back Gareth Bale on a season-long loan, but the Championship side are only prepared to pay a small percentage of the left-back's wages. (Guardian)
Middlesbrough have rejected a £6m bid from Everton for centre-back David Wheater. (Daily Mail)
Toffees boss David Moyes also wants Atletico Madrid's Netherlands international defender Johnny Hettinga, as well as Celtic midfielder Scott Brown. Moyes is also keen to take Tottenham midfielder David Bentley on loan. (The Times)
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson is hunting Kosice's £2m-rated Slovakian striker Jan Novak. (Daily Mirror)
Stoke boss Tonly Pulis is set to continue his spending spree after tabling a £2.5m bid for Sunderland defender Danny Collins. (The Sun)
The Potters also had a £10m offer for Trinidad and Tobago striker Kenwyn Jones reject by Sunderland. (Daily Mail)
Hull manager Phil Brown is eyeing a move for Poland international right-back Marcin Wasilewski from Belgian club Anderlecht. (The Sun)
Portsmouth's new owner Sulaiman al-Fahim could fund a minor spending spree with the acquisition of Ivory Coast striker Aruna Dindane for £4m from Lens, while bids have been placed for Watford defender Mike Williamson and Vitoria de Guimaraes' Nuno Assis. (Daily Mail)
OTHER GOSSIP
However, Al-Fahim's deal to buy Portsmouth has yet to be signed off by the Premier League. (Guardian)
Manchester United defender Jonny Evans is set to undergo ankle surgery - but only after playing for Northern Ireland against Poland and Slovakia in early September. (Daily Mirror)
AND FINALLY
Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish has defended his decision to turn down a move for Wilson Palacios in 2007 - even after Spurs paid Wigan £12m for the Honduras international. "I saw Wilson play in a Birmingham Cup game against Banbury and he looked OK, nothing more than that." (Daily Mail)
Thursday's gossip column
BREAKING GOSSIP
Former Chelsea winger Arjen Robben, linked with a return to the Premier League, is being tipped to leave Real Madrid and join European giants Bayern Munich (German media)
Middlesbrough defender Robert Huth is set to join Stoke for £6m. (Sky Sports news)
Inter Milan have agreed to sign Real Madrid midfielder Wesley Sneijder in a deal worth about 16m Euros. Sneijder had been linked with Manchester United and Aston Villa. (Spanish media)
Tottenham's have had their loan offer for Le Havre midfielder Kevin Anin rejected by the French club. (L'Equipe)
Everton have been knocked back in their efforts to replace Joleon Lescott with Benfica's Brazilian central defender Luisao. (Portuguese media)
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Spartak Moscow have made a £10m offer to re-sign Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko.(The Mirror)
Ipswich manager Roy Keane is to raid his former club for four players with Carlos Edwards, Grant Leadbitter, Daryl Murphy and Nyron Nosworthy set to leave Sunderland.(The Mirror)
Striker Andriy Shevchenko finally looks set to leave Chelsea after he was left out of their Champions League squad.(The Mirror)
Chelsea are set to re-ignite their interest in Feyenoord forward Jonathan de Guzman.(The Mirror)
Aston Villa are closing in on a double swoop for Blackburn defender Stephen Warnock and Manchester City centre-back Richard Dunne.(The Mirror)
Middlesbrough are set to sign striker Danny Webber who was released by Sheffield United in the summer.(The Mirror)
Bolton have launched a bid to re-sign midfielder Kevin Nolan from Newcastle United.(The Mirror)
Sunderland are set to launch a £6m bid for Hull defender Michael Turner. (Daily Mail)
Brazilian side Internacional have rejected a £14m bid from Tottenham for midfielder Sandro.(The Independent)
Celtic captain Steve McManus has rejected the opportunity to join Ipswich Town on loan. (The Guardian)
Notts County director of football Sven Goran Eriksson has failed in his bid to tempt Czech midfielder Pavel Nedved out of retirement.(Daily Mail)
Manchester United are set to sign Empoli's Italian duo Manuel Pucciarelli and Alberto Masacci. (Daily Telegraph)
Wigan are ready to make a £1m move for Honduras forward Carlos Costly, who currently plays for Polish side GKS Belchatow. (Daily Telegraph)
Birmingham are set to sign Middlesbrough forward Tuncay for £5m. (Daily Mail)
Stoke are lining up a £5m bid for young Uruguay midfielder Diego Arismendi.(The Mirror)
The Potters have also made a renewed offer for Cardiff City midfielder Joe Ledley. (The Times)
Bolton have had a £6.5m offer for midfielder Achille Emana turned down by Real Betis. (The Times)
Fulham are poised to sign Salzburg striker Marc Janko on a season-long loan. (The Mirror)
Hull are interested in signing Reading defender Liam Rosenior.(The Mirror)
Reading manager Brendan Rodgers is hoping Watford striker Tommy Smith will snub interest from Portsmouth and instead join the Royals.(The Sun)
Greek champions Olympiakos are ready to take Tottenham forward Giovani dos Santos on loan. (Daily Star)
Former England manager Glenn Hoddle believes David Beckham should pursue a move to Chelsea to keep alive his dream of playing at next year's World Cup. (Daily Star)
OTHER GOSSIP
New Portsmouth owner Sulaiman Al Fahim has vowed to turn the club into a major Premier League force after finally taking control of the south coast outfit.(The Sun)
AND FINALLY
Furious Celtic players have called for Eduardo to be banned after the Arsenal striker appeared to dive to win a penalty during the Gunners' 3-1 Champions League victory on Wednesday.(Daily Mail)
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Leeds 1-1 Watford (2-1 AET)
Leeds were bidding for a sixth straight victory to the start the new season, and a larger than anticipated crowd turned our for the second round tie.
The opening exchanges saw both sides mount early attacks, Watford goalkeeper Richard Lee collecting a Jermaine Beckford cross. Lee also came off his line well to clear a Jason Crowe cross after 11 minutes.
At the other end, one-time Leeds loan man Danny Graham latched on to an underhit header from Crowe to Shane Higgs, but the striker's touch let him down when faced with an opportunity to close in on goal.
On the quarter-hour Bradley Johnson tried his luck with an effort which flew over the top and moments later Higgs pulled off a fingertip save to deny Don Cowie.
Leeds created another good opening on 25 minutes when Beckford and Mike Grella combined to feed Snodgrass in space. The Scot's first effort was blocked, but he quickly regained possession, composed himself, and curled an effort over the top.
On the half-hour, Higgs another save to make when Will Hoskins shot straight at the Leeds goalkeeper after a good turn just inside the box.
But it was United who were in front on 38 minutes thanks to a first goal of the season from Snodgrass. Grella was again involved in the build-up, with a delightful lay-off, and Snodgrass delivered a superb finish, curling the ball past Lee.
Watford's response came via the lively Hoskins who forced Higgs into making another block from a low, angled shot. Higgs also saved from Tom Cleverley who made himself an opening after good work from Hoskins down the Watford left.
But in the final seconds of the half, Johnson, seeking a third successive goal, won a corner after trying his luck with a trademark powerful strike.
United also started the second half brightly, and Jonny Howson had an effort narrowly wide of the mark. Snodgrass, boosted by the quality strike in the first half, also sent an effort fizzing wide before the hour.
But the visitors were still a threat and John Eustace went close when Watford came forward.
It was an entertaining contest, Howson was again looking lively for Leeds in midfield, and Snodgrass again went close when he forced Lee into making a decent low save.
Grella had also been a threat throughout for Leeds and his intelligence led to Lloyd Doyley conceding a free-kick on the edge of the area on 70 minutes, which Eustace headed clear.
Moments later, the American was involved again in releasing Beckford, but Lee reacted quickly and managed to get enough on the shot to lift it over the top.
With 11 minutes left on the clock, Grayson made his first change of the night with Enoch Showunmi, scorer of the winner in round one at Darlington, replacing Beckford. Neil Kilkenny was also handed a late run out in place of the impressive Grella.
But it was a Watford substitute who made a decisive intervention with four minutes remaining when Marvin Sordell bagged an equaliser, drilling home a low shot beyond the reach of Higgs after Leeds failed to clear.
It looked like being enough to send the game into extra time, but as the clock passed the 90-minute mark, United mounted a final assault on the Watford goal, forcing the visitors to defend in numbers until Micky Doyle lifted a shot over the bar.
And in the final moment, Higgs made a save from a header, but the 90 minutes ended at 1-1.
It was United who started the extra period on the front foot, and eight minutes in, Snodgrass scored his second goal of the night to put Leeds back in front. The Scot again showed good composure to apply the finishing touch after latching on to a knock-on from Showunmi.
And it could have been three in the 100th minute of the night, but Doyle was denied by a superb save from Lee after a good ball by Andrew Hughes.
Chasing the game, Watford started the second period on the front foot, and Snodgrass picked up a booking in the 106th minute following a challenge in front of the West Stand.
Crowe was called upon to make a good block for United after Sordell's clever ball gave Henri Lansbury the chance to shoot.
At the other end, Showunmi was twice denied, first by a defender and then by the quick reaction of Lee. Both sides were clearly feeling the pace, but the openings continued, Eustace and Sordell both off-target for the Hornets.
With four minutes remaining, as Snodgrass left the field to a standing ovation, replaced by Luciano Becchio, Lee again reacted well to thwart Showunmi.
Still the half-openings game. On 119 minutes, Watford skipper Mike Williamson escaped down the right, but his low pull-back fizzed across an empty penalty box and away to safety.
United responded in the final minute, Johnson sending a shot wide of Lee's left-hand post, and Leeds almost snatched a third at the death following a quick breal. Doyle met a Howson cross, but Becchio was unable to apply the finishing touch.
And that proved to be the last action of the game as United edged through to the third round of the Carling Cup.
www.leedsunited.com
Leeds United - Watford
After another disappointment in play-off and missed opportunity for promotion (lost vs. Millwall in semi-final 0-1), Leeds remain as one of the biggest favorites for promotion. New start looks impressive, four games, three league wins and one in cup. Before the transfer market started, major concerns were can club keep their young stars Fabien Delph and Jermain Beckford. Delph left the club and signed for Aston Villa, but Beckford, scorer of 34 goals last season in all competition and four goals in recent one stayed. All in Leeds take every opportunity to point they don’t belong in the third tier, accept it as a shame and tonight will have a nice opportunity to show it on the pitch against the opponent who comes from the league where Leeds should be. Also, all in the club certainly remembers their last meeting with the Hornets in Championship play-off final (2006). Leeds were looking for immediate return to Premier, but lost totally unexpected 0-3 and seems then the things definitely go wrong for them. Next season, team relegated to League One and stayed till these days. They’ll be fully motivated and I expect the best available eleven on the pitch. Boss Simon Grayson will once again be without left-back Ben Parker, who has missed the last four games because of a hamstring injury, while centre-back Richard Naylor (back) remains a long-term absentee. Leeds have been knocked out in the second round just once in last 14 years.
New season brought the same problems for the lads from Vicarage Road. Excellent manager Brendan Rogers left the club to take a charge in Reading and his replacement is Malky Mackay. Team also lost a striker Tamas Priskin (15 goals last season), while star striker Tommy Smith looks likely to be on his way out from the club before the transfer window shuts. Club signed few new players, worth of mentioning are striker Danny Graham (from Carlisle United) and loan duo Henri Lansbury and Tom Cleverley from Arsenal and Manchester United. I think, in the best case, team is equal with that from the last season. Which means tough battle to save the status in the second tier. And start in Championship doesn’t look too promising, as Watford have won only one of their four league games so far. So, they have bigger worries (saturday’s clash against Swansea, for example) than progress in cup competition. Mackay will probably rest his keys and give a chance to some fringe players. Mentioned Lansbury and Cleverley will have a debut as they have been given permission to play in the competition by parent clubs. The Hornets will surely be without key midfielder Jobi McAnuff (back injury) and striker Nathan Ellington (knee). Watford were last knocked out by lower league opposition two years ago when League One Southend eliminated them in the second round, while they needed extra-time to see off Barnet in the first round this year.
Leeds like to play against strong opponents. For them, it is the way to show the superiority. And for this encounter will have revenge as the additional reason. Top of the third league against bottom of the second. I think Watford need something really special if want to resist at Elland and see Leeds as the favorites here. Pinnacle offer 2.14. Home win.
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Tuesday's gossip column
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Brazilian midfielder Anderson has been told he can leave Manchester United after reacting badly to being omitted from the starting line-up for the Community Shield defeat by Chelsea.(Daily Mirror)
Manchester City have completed the £24m signing of England defender Joleon Lescott from Everton.(The Sun)
Chelsea are keeping tabs on Benfica's talented trio - Angel di Maria, who plays in midfield, defender David Luiz and winger Fabio Coentrao.(The Sun)
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola has flown out to Italy to complete the signing of Livorno striker Alessandro Diamanti.(Daily Mirror)
OTHER GOSSIP
Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic, linked this summer with Barcelona, has pledged his immediate future to the Old Trafford club.(Daily Star)
Ipswich boss Roy Keane has axed several members of his first-team squad and told them they will never play for him again.(Daily Mail)
AND FINALLY
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has paid tribute to a new slimline Andy Reid after the midfielder lost 9kg and 22mm of body fat in the summer. Reid celebrated by scoring twice in the 4-1 Carling Cup win over Norwich on Monday.(The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk
Liverpool 1-3 Aston Villa
Aston Villa produced an outstanding defensive display to secure their first win against Liverpool in eight years as Rafael Benitez's side continued their stuttering start to the new Premier League campaign.
Villa had been heavily criticised after losing their opening home game to Wigan Athletic and slumping to defeat in the Europa League against Rapid Vienna - but they answered all the questions in emphatic fashion at Anfield.
Liverpool faded after a bright start, and have now lost as many league games as they did last season following losses against Spurs and now Villa.
Anfield was left frustrated as Liverpool wasted the opportunities that came their way, but ultimately they were reduced to running up blind alleys, and out of ideas, in the face of Villa's resilience.
Villa were set on their way after 34 minutes when Lucas deflected Ashley Young's free-kick into his own net, and they grabbed a second on the stroke of half-time when Curtis Davies headed in Nicky Shorey's corner at the near post.
Liverpool surged forward after the break, but met a white wall of resistance as Villa defended their precious lead, with Carlos Cuellar outstanding and goalkeeper Brad Friedel a commanding presence.
Fernando Torres gave Liverpool hope with a close-range strike after 72 minutes, but any hopes of a dramatic revival ended three minutes later when Steven Gerrard brought down Nigel Reo-Coker and Young scored from the spot.
Villa boss Martin O'Neill was elated - and rightly so as his side got their season up and running with a landmark victory.
For Liverpool, they will now they simply have to produce better - and more creative - performances as they chase their first title in 20 years.
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Liverpool - Aston Villa
At the start of another title pursuit, the Reds got a hard punch in north London against Tottenhem (1-2). The fact is Liverpool put a decent display and was harmed for a penalty kick, but it was obvious they simply need some quality in defense. Also, departure Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid didn’t bring anything good. Rafa Benitez as a first help brought Greece international Sotirios Kyrgiakos (£2 million from AEK Athens), but real shock came when gentlemen Hicks and Gillett announced there’re no money for other signings. So, last line is far from Chelsea’s or Man.Utd.’s for example and Rafa will try to overcome it with strong attacking force that the team possess. But the problem is, it can works against teams who are focused on defending against Liverpool (Stoke, second round, 4-0 at Anfield), but against equal opponents it can bring some shocks during the season. For tonight’s game defense will be even weaker, as Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio are injured, while Martin Skrtel is in doubt. Liverpool have not lost at home in the league for 31 games.
Both sides have huge problems in defense lines, but have to go on all three points. For Villa another defeat would be a second in two games, while in Liverpool nobody wants even to think about second failure in three rounds. As both can’t rely on defense, will try to score once more than opponent. Betfair offer 1.90, Pinnacle 1.83. Over.
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Monday's gossip column
BREAKING GOSSIP
West Ham have been told to improve their offer if they want to sign Livorno striker Alessandro Diamanti(on photo). (Press Association)
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Everton manager David Moyes will spend £10m on Lokomotiv Moscow's Russian midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, 24. (The Sun)
Moyes will also look to add a defender to his squad following Joleon Lescott's move to Manchester City - with Bolton's Gary Cahill and Middlesbrough pair David Wheater and Robert Huth under consideration.(The Times)
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is ready to make a £6m move for Newcastle defender Steven Taylor. (Daily Mirror)
Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce has given Villa a 48-hour deadline to come up with more than the £8m they have already offered for left-back Stephen Warnock. (Daily Mirror)
West Ham are in talks to sell defender James Collins to Aston Villa for £5m, which will pave the way for Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh to join the Hammers for £7m. (Daily Telegraph)
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is also close to bringing in Barcelona striker Eidur Gudjohnsen on a season-long loan deal. (The Sun)
Manchester City are close to sealing a deal for Barcelona's Brazilian full-back Sylvinho on a free transfer. (Daily Mail)
Wigan have agreed a £5m fee with Crystal Palace for Victor Moses, 18, but the striker will spend the rest of the season on loan at Selhurst Park as part of the deal. (The Sun)
Ivory Coast striker Aruna Dindane is set for a £4m deal with Portsmouth after the Premier League agreed to cover the deal with Pompey's television cash if the club fails to pay Lens on time.(The Sun)
Meanwhile, Portsmouth have expressed an interest in Nantes midfielder Aurelien Capouem, 27, who previously had an unsuccessful trial at Blackburn. (The Times)
And Pompey are also set to sign Algerian midfielder Hadj Issa, 25, know as his country's Roberto Baggio, in a £400,000 deal from Wifaq Setif. (Daily Mirror)
Nottingham Forest striker Rob Earnshaw, 28, is a £3m target for Newcastle. (Daily Mirror)
Ipswich boss Roy Keane may sell defender Gareth McAuley, 29, to raise funds after the pair had a bust-up last week. (Daily Mirror)
Hibernian striker Colin Nish is a £200,000 target for English Championship strugglers Scunthorpe. (Scottish Daily Mail)
Hamilton Accies are having a look at Las Palmas winger Herlado and Cicero Casimero, once a £2.7m signing for Dinamo Moscow. (Daily Express)
OTHER GOSSIP
Former Sunderland boss Peter Reid is set to be named as Stoke City's new assistant manager this week, once he agrees terms to leave his post as coach of Thailand. (The Times)
Arsenal forward Andrey Arshavin believes the Gunners must spend money on new players if they are to maintain their impressive start to the season. (The Times)
Portsmouth boss Paul Hart expects a mystery consortium fronted by chief executive Peter Storrie to take over the south-coast club this week. (The Sun)
Hull's Brazilian forward Geovanni, 29, will pledge his future to the Tigers by signing a new deal.(The Sun)
AND FINALLY
Blackburn full-back Michel Salgado may have a difference of opinion with new boss Sam Allardyce regarding the Spaniard's defensive duties. Salgado's former Real Madrid team-mate Steve McManaman claimed the attack-minded defender knew two words of English: "cover me". (Daily Mail)
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Genoa 3-2 Roma
Gian Piero Gasperini's men came out on top in a thrilling battle at Marassi, but the match had its share of controversy as well as goal-mouth action.
As expected, new loan signing Nicolas Burdisso slotted straight into the heart of the Giallorossi defence with the inexperienced Marco Andreolli. Stefano Guberti also made his Serie A debut for the Lupi, while Hernan Crespo, Alberto Zapater, Marco Amelia and Emiliano Moretti all made their league bows for the Rossoblu.
The Grifoni started brightly, with most of their attacks being directed down their left flank and earning a couple of early corners. Roma remained a threat on the counter attack, however, and Francesco Totti brought a good stop from Marco Amelia.
Hernan Crespo had an excellent chance in the 13th minute, receiving the ball in the penalty area and effortlessly turning Burdisso, but fired his shot wide of Artur's left hand post.
While the majority of the pressure came from the hosts, the game remained very open as Roma counter-attacked, primarily through the lively Jeremy Menez. These quick moves left the Lupi open at the back, however, and Ivan Juric was eager to move the ball to the front three to try and exploit the gaps.
Crespo had a penalty appeal turned down on the half hour mark, as the Argentine striker felt he was tugged down by Marco Andreolli just before Mesto also tumbled in the box, but the referee ignored their protests.
Genoa continued to press forward, and a shot from Papastathopoulos flashed just wide from 25 yards, but the penalty appeals appeared to spark their visitors into life. Jeremy Menez almost found himself through on goal, but a last ditch tackle by Marco Rossi denied the Frenchman.
The winger then made another excellent block to save the Grifoni's skin, this time from Guberti, and Burdisso headed just wide from a corner moments later. Despite a period of sustained Giallorossi pressure before the break, the sides went in goalless.
Gian Piero Gasperini took the initiative after the break, bringing on Rodrigo Palacio for Modesto as well as Domenico Criscito for Mesto.
The move paid immediate dividends, as Genoa held a high line to exert heavy pressure on the Giallorossi. Four minutes into the second half, an extended period of Grifoni possession led to Sculli heading the ball down for the onrushing Criscito to hammer the ball into Artur's left hand corner to put the hosts in front.
It didn't take long for Roma to respond, however. Marco Motta's cross was met by Andreolli's head, but although Amelia palmed away the initial effort, Taddei was on hand to head home the equaliser.
The game was becoming very open, although a number of niggly fouls somewhat broke up the pattern of play. While the Rossoblu were passing the ball nicely around the pitch, frustration was beginning to show as Roma's defence held firm.
Criscito then made an excellent tackle on Lupi captain Totti to prevent the visitors taking the lead, but it was only a temporary respite. Genoa failed to clear their lines after Pizarro's cut-back and Stefano Guberti's shot was deflected into the net by Totti on 64 minutes.
Just five minutes later and the sides were level again! Andreolli was booked for a high tackle on Juric 20 yards from goal, and the youngster was made to pay for the foul as Zapater unleashed a fierce free kick that bent into the top right hand corner.
The atmosphere was now as electric as the match was, and Genoa rode their luck to scramble the ball away from their goalmouth after Amelia saved well from De Rossi.
Giuseppe Biava was fortunate to remain on the pitch with 15 minutes remaining as he pulled down Menez, but although the defender was the last man in Genoa's half the referee only deemed it a yellow card offence. It was to prove a costly decision for the visitors.
With just under 10 minutes to go, Cassetti felled Palacio on the right hand side of the box, and Biava hammered home the rebound after Sculli's shot was saved. Immediately afterwards, the game was almost wrapped up when Artur palmed Figueroa's shot over the crossbar.
Roma poured bodies forward in search of another equaliser, but the hosts remained the more dangerous side and comfortably saw out injury time to record an important win over Luciano Spalletti's men.
www.goal.com
Genoa - Roma
Last season hosts finished at the fifth place, even had a chance for Champions League, at the end had the same number of points as Fiorentina, but worse mutual score. This was achieved after a strong season which saw the team defeating the giants like Juventus, Roma and Milan, and winning both derbies against Sampdoria, with Diego Milito finishing among the top scorers of Serie A. Mentioned Milito and excellent Thiago Motta have been sold to Internazionale. Chairman Enrico Preziosi was more than generous during the transfer market and club signed the replacements. Striker Sergio Floccari came from Atalanta for 12 mill. euros. Also, two Argentinian strikers Crespo (from Inter) and Rodrigo Palacios (ex Boca) joined the club. Ambitions are the same and attacking line hasn’t lost the quality, but the biggest problem again will be defence. Genoa conceded too many goals last season. One reason is 3-4-3 formation, but also defence was the weakest line. Only new defender is Serbian U-21 international Nenad Tomovic (ex Crvena Zvezda). At their home Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa don’t respect anyone and will try to start the season with three points which would boost the players’ confidence.
After another disappointing season where Roma finished one place below tonight’s hosts, “Giallorossi” come into new one with almost the same players. Club didn’t reach Champions League which caused a limited resources for new signings. Only worth of mentioning are Nicolas Burdisso who came on loan from Internazionale and winger Stefano Guberti (ex Ascoli). They even sold excellent Alberto Aquilani to Liverpool to balance the books. Fans expected one new striker, but so far no big news about that. The main target this season will be the spot for Champions League, but the capabilities of this team are under the question mark. They force attacking style of play, all their friendlies and European encounters (against Gent and Kosice) were high scoring games. Prince of Roma, Francesco Totti plays in great shape, despite the years, while young French Jérémy Menez finally started to repay 10 mill. that have been spent on him last year. There’re also two more excellent attackers, Mirko Vucinic and Júlio Baptista. But, as Genoa, Roma lack in defence line which will be even weaker tonight for Philippe Mexès and first goalkeeper Doni. Also, Luciano Spalletti can not count on Vucinic and Perotta. Defeat in the first round is unacceptable and visitors will go for all three points.
This will be surely the derby game in Italy. Both teams have the highest ambitions, great attacking force and wouldn’t be satisfied with just one point tonight. But also, both have problems in defence and despite I fancy Roma and think they won’t loose at least, see many goals and go for over. 2.08 at 188bet.
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Sunday's gossip column
BREAKING GOSSIP
Arsenal and Liverpool are in the chase for midfielder Rafael van der Vaart although both are some way away from Real Madrid's valuation. AS (in Spanish)
Manchester City have been linked with a move for Boca Juniors midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme. (IM Scouting)
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp is hoping a £10m bid will be enough to reunite him with Chelsea playmaker Joe Cole. Redknapp gave Cole his debut in senior football during his time at West Ham. (Sunday Mirror)
Spurs midfielder Jermaine Jenas is being considered by Aston Villa as a replacement for Gareth Barry, who moved to Manchester City earlier this summer. (News of the World)
Portsmouth are willing to sell midfielder Niko Kranjcar should any other club match their £8m valuation of the Croatia international. (Sunday Mirror)
Burnley are to offer Newcastle midfielder Nicky Butt a route back into the Premier League with a two-year deal at Turf Moor. (News of the World)
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez is ready to dip into the Championship again with a £3.5m bid for Bristol City midfielder Marvin Elliot. (News of the World)
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez's summer spending is over after being informed that there is no more money left for him after the capture of defender Sotiros Krygiakos. (Mail on Sunday)
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill wants to reinforce his defence with the capture of Manchester City's Richard Dunne for £6m and Portsmouth's Sylvain Distin for £4m. (Sunday Express)
Villa are also locked in discussions to swap defender Luke Young for Hull centre-back Michael Turner. (Sunday Mirror)
David Beckham's contract with LA Galaxy contains a get-out clause that he could activate at any time. (Sunday People)
Fulham defender Brede Hangeland has said he is flattered to be linked with a host of top clubs but he will stay at Craven Cottage for the time being. (Various)
Everton and Blackburn face competition from Spanish side Sevilla in the chase for the signature of 24-year-old SK Brann winger Erik Huseklepp. (News of the World)
Leicester striker Matty Fryatt has come into the sights of Hull City manager Phil Brown as he looks to bolster his strike force. (News of the World)
Tottenham are weighing up moves for Celtic midfield pair Scott Brown and Aiden McGeady, with the Parkhead club valuing them at a total of £10m. (News of the World)
Stoke will attempt to lure Sunderland striker Kenwyne Jones to the Britannia Stadium with a £12m bid. (Sunday Express)
Striker Henri Camara, who has been without a club since leaving Wigan last season, could be snapped up by Portsmouth. (News of the World)
OTHER GOSSIP
Chelsea captain John Terry has dismissed his long-term agent Aaron Lincoln. His decision comes after a summer of speculation linking the defender with a big-money move to Manchester City. (The Sunday Times)
Everton are likely to report Manchester City to the Premier League over their persistent pursuit of defender Joleon Lescott. (Various)
Chelsea are facing a Football Association investigation after a training ground friendly against United Arab Emirates side Al Hilal erupted into a mass brawl. (News of the World)
Portsmouth have been forced to renegotiate payments to other clubs and agents with Sulaiman Al-Fahim's protracted takeover still not finalised. (The Mail on Sunday)
David Gold and David Sullivan will attempt to buy West Ham after agreeing to the £80m sale of Birmingham City to Hong Kong businessman Carson Yeung. (News of the World)
Arsenal are keen to improve the terms of midfielder Cesc Fabregas's current Emirates contract, worth around £90,000 a week, to ward off interest from Barcelona. (News of the World)
The pitch at Wembley Stadium will be relaid for a sixth time since the venue reopened in 2007 after the U2 concerts held at the venue over the weekend damaged the surface. (Sunday Express)
AND FINALLY
Neighbours of Wayne Rooney and wife Coleen are unimpressed with the couple's redesigned home and gardens. The Prestbury property has their initials inlaid in the entrance hall's marble floor. (The Mail on Sunday)
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand says his annual goal-scoring contest against brother and Sunderland centre-back Anton will "probably" take place again this season. Last term's rivalry ended in a draw with neither sibling registering a single strike. (The Independent on Sunday)
Just six days ahead of the start of a new season, no British broadcaster has secured the rights to screen Spanish football. BSkyB's deal to show La Liga expired in the summer and the satellite giant is reluctant to meet the £15m-a-season asking price. (The Sunday Times)
www.bbc.co.uk
Championship
Leicester 1 - 0 Barnsley
.
Barnsley threatened through Martin Devaney's long-range shot before Fryatt opened the scoring, latching on to a Richie Wellens pass and slotting home.
By now, Leicester were dominating but the Tykes almost snatched an unlikely equaliser when Rob Kozluk fired wide.
Leicester boss Nigel Pearson:
Barnsley boss Simon Davey:
"Defeat is very disappointing. I thought there was very little between the teams."
Reading 1 - 3 Sheff Utd
An error by Reading keeper Adam Federici helped Sheffield United come from a goal down to beat the Royals.
Matthew Mills headed the home side in front but Stephen Quinn equalised when he side-footed in after Reading failed to clear their lines.
Gylfi Sigurdsson's drive hit the post for Reading before Federici let Jamie Ward's speculative 25-yard shot through his grasp and into the goal.
David Cotterill arrowed in a strike to seal victory for the Blades.
Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell:
"We created some lovely goals and we looked a good side at times. It could have been five or six. Apart from a 20-minute spell when Reading scored we were dominant.
Reading boss Brendan Rodgers:
"I understand the fans' frustrations. They want to see their team winning and have just come to an end of a five-year cycle which brought much success.
www.bbc.co.uk
Reading - Sheffield United
After tragically ended previous season, where first missed to win in last round against Birmingham at home and reach direct promotion, then lost in semi-final of play-off against Burnley, Royals came in this season with different squad. First Steve Copell lost his job, then some very important players like Kevin Doyle, Michael Duberry, Graeme Murty, Marcus Hahnemann, Leroy Lita, Stephen Hunt and more recently Andre Bikey left the club. Seven players. New boss is very talented Brendan Rodgers (ex Watford), but team lost the quality and despite the same ambitions as usual, mid-table finish is more realistic. After three rounds, Reading still don’t have a win, in fact they still haven’t scored. Two goalless draws (Nottingham Forest at home and Swansea City away) and defeat against Newcastle 0-3 on the road. Reading are waiting on the fitness of winger Jimmy Kebe, while Marek Matejovsky is still not considered match fit after his own recent groin injury.
United as Reading have the highest ambitions, but the difference is they have quality for that. The Blades also lost against Burnley in clash for Premier, but squad remained almost the same. It means, iron defense and very strong midfield. The only problem is attacking line. Team lost excellent striker James Beattie and spent 3 mill.pounds for his replacement Ched Evans. They had excellent away record last season with just five defeats from 23 games and only 17 goals conceded (Championship record). United are likely to be without midfielder Brian Howard, who has gone down with tonsillitis. But fellow midfielder Lee Hendrie is available once again after serving a four-match ban.
Oppositely from bookies, I think Blades are slight favorites here and see value in these odds. But, also wouldn’t exclude a possibility of another draw and instead clear away win, suggest 0.25 (1.77) handicap on United, or simply DNB (2.05).
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Saturday's gossip column
BREAKING GOSSIP
Carlo Ancelotti insists Andriy Shevchenko has a future at Stamford Bridge, despite the fact that the Ukrainian has played just one game in the last 15 months for Chelsea. (Press Association)
Holland midfielder Wesley Sneijder, who has been linked with Manchester United, Aston Villa and Arsenal during the summer, is resisting pressure from Real Madrid to accept a move away from the Spanish giants. (Reuters)
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Everton have given up the fight to keep England defender Joleon Lescott and agreed to sell him to Manchester City for £22m. (Daily Mail)
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger could still make a last-ditch bid to bring former skipper Patrick Vieira back to the club from Inter Milan before the transfer deadline. (Daily Mirror)
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is poised to sign Blackburn defender Stephen Warnock for around £8m. (Daily Mirror)
Livorno say that West Ham United’s offer for striker Alessandro Diamanti is considerably short of their £8 million valuation. (Times)
Fulham are considering a move for Arsenal defender Philippe Senderos and Newcastle defender Stephen Taylor. (Times)
Everton boss David Moyes is chasing Spartak Moscow winger Vladimir Bystrov (Daily Mail)
Celtic boss Tony Mowbray does not expect Aiden McGeady to leave Parkhead after the Republic of Ireland Winger was linked to Tottenham. (Press and Journal)
Gianfranco Zola has set up a meeting with Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh on Monday to try and persuade the Moroccan to join West Ham. (Daily Mirror)
Bolton boss Gary Megson is weighing up a move for former Valencia striker Miguel Angel Angulo. (Daily Mirror)
Nottingham Forest are lining up a £1m bid for Charlton's Nicky Baily. (Daily Mirror)
Defender David Wheater has given a declaration of loyality to Middlesbrough, insisting he could not picture himself playing for anyone else. (Daily Star)
OTHER GOSSIP
Sir Alex Ferguson has backed misfiring strikers Michael Owen and Dimitar Berbatov to start finding the net for Manchester United. (Sun)
Manchester City boss Mark Hughes says he is unfazed by other clubs' criticisms of his massive summer spending spree.(The Sun)
Arsene Wenger has blasted the decision to press Theo Walcott into action for the both the senior and under-21 England teams this summer as "selfish". (Daily Mirror)
Gianfranco Zola insists he has no intention of quitting West Ham after denying he is under pressure to sell players. (Metro)
Alex McLeish's job looks to be safe Birmingham City prepare for takeover talks with Hong Kong businessman Carson Yeung. (The Scotsman)
AND FINALLY
Blackburn striker Jason Roberts never takes his Premier League wages for granted after revealing his first pay packet as an unknown non-league player: "That would be £15-a-week with Hayes." (Daily Mirror)
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Leicester City - Barnsley
After three rounds in their returning season in Championship, Foxes are showing big potential and already announcing a battle for the top of the table. Club has no financial worries, ambitious chairman Milan Mandaric wrote off £14m worth of debt following relegation and even strengthened the squad with five signings where the biggest one is excellent midfielder Richie Wellens (from Doncaster). After opening win at Walkers against Swansea (2-1), team made two more decent results on the road. First against Ipswich (0-0), then against one of the strongest league teams – Sheffield United (1-1). More impressive than results is their attacking attitude independently from the opponent. They conquered League One with 96 points on the balance and 84 goals scored and simply haven’t used to respect anybody. However, draw in Sheffield stayed in the shadow of the injuries their two strikers, Steve Howard and Martyn Waghorn after both suffered hamstring injuries and there are fears that they could be ruled out for several weeks. Club’s management reacted immediately and have signed Blackburn Rovers striker Paul Gallagher who spent last season with Plymouth and scored 13 goals. Leicester are unbeaten in nine league games and in 21 league games at the Walkers Stadium.
After the previous season where club avoided relegation at the last day, new one started in the same manner. Club’s owner Patrick Cryne gave the last chance to manager Simon Davey, but squad stayed nearly the same, without any significant transfers. The only signing worth of mentioning is striker Onome Sodje from York City. In the opening game, Barnsley noticed a promising draw on the road, against Sheffield Wednesday (2-2). But, then came two shocking home defeats without a goal scored. First Coventry City took all three points (0-2), then Preston North End did the same (0-3). Against Preston, Barnsley conceded two goals in the first half and through the major part of the game weren’t the equal opponent on the pitch. One point from three games was enough to activate alarms at Oakwell and Davey becomes the main favorite to be first manager in Championship who will lose the job. Only goods news come from medical, striker Iain Hume (who has a key role in attack) is recovered and could play against his former club, while defender Rob Kozluk is available again after serving a ban. The Tykes also are hoping to get international clearance for Icelandic midfielder Emil Hallfredsson in time for him to play. In last six encounters of these opponents, Barnsley have noticed all six defeats.
This is the early stage of Championship and that calls on caution, but both sides already showed their ambitions and ultimate limits. Visitors will give the final effort to save their boss, but Walkers Stadium surely isn’t a place for correcting the errors. Foxes are full of enthusiasm, team shape is more than decent, Matty Fryatt in Sheffield scored again and I think home side is the big favorites here. Pinnacle offer 1.78. Home win. And visitors will try to score finally, which can cause a big over. So, small bet on over, Bwin at 2.20.
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