http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/?service=Rss http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/henrys-replay-call-wrongfoots-french-1824816.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/henrys-replay-call-wrongfoots-french-1824816.html ]]> <p>Thierry Henry's extraordinary admission yesterday that France's World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland should be replayed wrong-footed the French football federation (FFF): officials in Paris had not authorised it and they have no intention of supporting his sentiments. </p> International Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/who-will-go-fourth-and-conquer-1824820.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/who-will-go-fourth-and-conquer-1824820.html ]]> <p>The task of resurrecting Liverpool's season always did look like the mother of all ventures so it's as well that Rafael Benitez has been looking in the right place. "Are you married?" he asked yesterday, when asked to expand on how the process of slapping horse placenta on his injured players has left his side in a fit state to meet Manchester City this lunchtime. "Ask your wife," he replied.</p> Premier League Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/lampard-joins-rush-to-placenta-healer-1824822.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/lampard-joins-rush-to-placenta-healer-1824822.html <p>Frank Lampard has become the latest Premier League star to seek the healing hands of the mysterious horse placenta woman Marijana Kovacevic. The Chelsea midfielder was in Serbia yesterday for treatment on his torn thigh muscle that has ruled him out of his club's game against Wolves today. </p> Premier League Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/keane-savages-mentally-weak-ireland-players-1824817.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/keane-savages-mentally-weak-ireland-players-1824817.html <p>Roy Keane yesterday launched a savage attack on the Republic of Ireland players and the Irish football establishment for their complaints about Thierry Henry's handball and told them they were just sympathy-seeking, "mentally weak" hypocrites who should "get over it". </p> International Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/james-lawton-henry-is-a-cheat-ndash-and-a-replay-could-have-proved-it-on-wednesday-night-1824819.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/james-lawton-henry-is-a-cheat-ndash-and-a-replay-could-have-proved-it-on-wednesday-night-1824819.html <p>We can appraise however we like the moral strength of Thierry Henry's belated statement that it really would be quite a good idea to replay the World Cup match he distorted so profoundly. However, we cannot hope to be within a long throw of the central issue. </p> News & Comment Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/allardyce-bolton-was-a-fantastic-time-a-great-era-for-me-1824818.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/allardyce-bolton-was-a-fantastic-time-a-great-era-for-me-1824818.html ]]> <p>Rain hammering down on Pendle Hill from storm clouds as black as night: it is an early morning scene in Lancashire that Sam Allardyce has observed a thousand times before, but there seemed to be a particular poignancy in it yesterday as he wondered whether he would ever know a different landscape. </p> News & Comment Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/london-caught-in-matchfixing-raids-1824824.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/london-caught-in-matchfixing-raids-1824824.html <p>A Europe-wide investigation into "the biggest match-fixing scandal that European football has ever seen" led to an initial 17 arrests yesterday during raids in four countries, including England, and the seizure of around £900,000 in cash suspected of being gained by illegal means. </p> News & Comment Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/mourinho-heat-is-on-barccedila-1824826.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/mourinho-heat-is-on-barccedila-1824826.html ]]> <p>Swine flu and Jose Mourinho all in the same week – it could be a very difficult few days for Barcelona's European champions. </p> European Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/neil-warnock-i-couldnt-get-into-spirit-of-friendlies-ndash-so-i-went-to-watch-scrooge-instead-1824828.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/neil-warnock-i-couldnt-get-into-spirit-of-friendlies-ndash-so-i-went-to-watch-scrooge-instead-1824828.html <p>I had a tough decision when it came to England v Brazil. How big a box of popcorn should I order? I spent the week leading up to the match telling people it would be a joke, a waste of two hours of their lifetime. So when they kicked off I was at the pictures, watching A Christmas Carol in 3D. It is amazing watching a film though those glasses, I really enjoyed it, though as I said to Sharon, "I'm glad no one's got a photograph of me wearing them." </p> News & Comment Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/hes-off-egypt-pulls-ambassador-in-fallout-from-world-cup-clash-1824953.html http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/hes-off-egypt-pulls-ambassador-in-fallout-from-world-cup-clash-1824953.html ]]> <p>Never mind the "hand of Henry" – the "foot of Yahia" has caused an even greater World Cup fallout in north Africa as rioting erupted in the early hours of yesterday morning in Cairo. It was Algerian defender Antar Yahia's powerful right-foot volley that settled their play-off with bitter rivals Egypt in the week's most contentious match.</p> Africa Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/on-the-road-the-kindness-and-spontaneity-of-syrian-strangers-1824890.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/on-the-road-the-kindness-and-spontaneity-of-syrian-strangers-1824890.html <p>I feel like I've been taken hostage, but in a good way. True, I've been bundled into a car and taken to an unknown destination somewhere in the old city section of Homs. But there are no dank cells or handcuffs here. Instead it's just endless cups of tea and a table groaning under the weight of huge plates of food. This is Syria and, yet again, I've been befriended by a local family and brought home for lunch. This is a nation that takes hospitality very seriously. </p> European Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/kakuta-rises-from-the-ruckus-1824827.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/kakuta-rises-from-the-ruckus-1824827.html ]]> <p>Carlo Ancelotti, the Chelsea manager, claims Gaël Kakuta, the youngster at the centre of the club's transfer scandal, is the best 18-year-old he has seen and that bringing the French playmaker to Stamford Bridge was worth all the fuss. </p> Premier League Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/grand-old-men-prove-yorke-is-off-target-1824825.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/grand-old-men-prove-yorke-is-off-target-1824825.html <p>Dwight Yorke, interviewed in these pages recently, wished for a management break as promising as Gareth Southgate's at then-Premier League Middlesbrough. The League Managers Association's celebration this week of the elite band to have overseen 1,000 matches should have made him reconsider.</p> News & Comment Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/rooney-not-ready-for-club-captaincy-1824823.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/rooney-not-ready-for-club-captaincy-1824823.html <p>A new dad and captain of his country, Wayne Rooney returns to domestic duty today after being told he is behind at least five other players in Sir Alex Ferguson's pecking order for the Manchester United armband. </p> Premier League Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/hughes-hoping-city-can-impress-torres-1824821.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/hughes-hoping-city-can-impress-torres-1824821.html ]]> <p>Manchester City travel to Anfield today in the belief that victory might set in motion a train of events that could take Fernando Torres to Eastlands. </p> Premier League Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/iraq-suspended-by-fifa-1824751.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/iraq-suspended-by-fifa-1824751.html <p> Iraq were today suspended by world governing body FIFA after the Iraqi Olympic Committee dissolved the governing board of the Iraq Football Association. </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:56:10 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/2010-world-cup-teambyteam-guide-1824688.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/2010-world-cup-teambyteam-guide-1824688.html ]]> <p> Qualification is complete and now we can look forward to South Africa 2010, which kicks off on June 11. </p> News & Comment Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:04:48 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/zola-warns-suitors-off-carlton-cole-1824670.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/zola-warns-suitors-off-carlton-cole-1824670.html ]]> <p> West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola has issued a firm "hands off" warning to potential suitors of Carlton Cole as the England striker prepares for his return to first-team action. </p> Premier League Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:30:59 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/martins-broke-despite-pound75000aweek-wages-1824669.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/martins-broke-despite-pound75000aweek-wages-1824669.html ]]> <p> A court has heard that former Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins was broke despite earning £75,000-a-week wages. </p> News & Comment Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:27:14 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/uefa-investigate-european-matchfixing-claims-1824661.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/uefa-investigate-european-matchfixing-claims-1824661.html <p> UEFA are looking into 12 matches in the Europa League and three in the Champions League as part of their investigation into alleged match-fixing. </p> News & Comment Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:47:49 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/wenger-backs-call-for-ireland-replay-1824650.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/wenger-backs-call-for-ireland-replay-1824650.html <p> Arsene Wenger has echoed Thierry Henry's calls for France's controversial World Cup play-off against the Republic of Ireland to be replayed. </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:01:15 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/replay-the-best-solution-says-henry-1824593.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/replay-the-best-solution-says-henry-1824593.html ]]> <p> France captain Thierry Henry has admitted replaying the World Cup qualification play-off against the Republic of Ireland would be "the fairest solution". </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:12:47 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/france-tell-ireland-to-move-on-1824576.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/france-tell-ireland-to-move-on-1824576.html ]]> <p> The France Football Federation believe the controversy of their World Cup qualification should be put aside following FIFA's decision that the play-off against the Republic of Ireland will not be replayed. </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:03:59 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/roy-keane-tells-fai-what-goes-around-comes-around-1824518.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/roy-keane-tells-fai-what-goes-around-comes-around-1824518.html ]]> <p> Roy Keane had little sympathy for the Football Association of Ireland's campaign to have their controversial World Cup play-off against France replayed and said: "What goes around comes around." </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:33:19 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/real-insist-ronaldo-will-not-be-rushed-back-1824512.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/real-insist-ronaldo-will-not-be-rushed-back-1824512.html ]]> <p> Sporting director Emilio Butragueno insists Real Madrid will exercise caution with the returning Cristiano Ronaldo. </p> European Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:15:46 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-can-cope-without-van-persie-says-wenger-1824428.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-can-cope-without-van-persie-says-wenger-1824428.html ]]> <p> Arsene Wenger maintains Arsenal have the strength to cope without injured frontman Robin van Persie. </p> Premier League Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:24:20 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/beckham-defends-henry-over-hand-ball-1824427.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/beckham-defends-henry-over-hand-ball-1824427.html ]]> <p> David Beckham has defended Thierry Henry following the France striker's controversial handball in the World Cup play-off against the Republic of Ireland. </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:22:46 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/domenech-baffled-by-frances-guilty-tag-1824411.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/domenech-baffled-by-frances-guilty-tag-1824411.html ]]> <p> France coach Raymond Domenech is baffled as to why his side are being portrayed as the guilty party following their controversial World Cup play-off victory over the Republic of Ireland. </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:20:58 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/manchester-united-identify-ferdinand-injury-problem-1824408.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/manchester-united-identify-ferdinand-injury-problem-1824408.html ]]> <p> Sir Alex Ferguson is confident Rio Ferdinand will not be consigned to a lengthy period on the sidelines after identifying the root of his current injury problems. </p> Premier League Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:17:58 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/fifa-rule-out-ireland-replay-1824407.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/fifa-rule-out-ireland-replay-1824407.html ]]> <p> FIFA today dashed the Republic of Ireland's hopes replaying their World Cup qualifying play-off with France. </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:15:35 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/the-ten-best-acts-of-sportsmanship-1823706.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/the-ten-best-acts-of-sportsmanship-1823706.html ]]> <p> Thierry Henry could have handled the 'Hand Gaul' situation all so differently. </p> News & Comment Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:01:31 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/johnson-responds-to-placenta-treatment-1823931.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/johnson-responds-to-placenta-treatment-1823931.html ]]> <p>Glen Johnson's encounter with placenta specialist Marijana Kovacevic appears to have elicited some rapid results, with the right-back, whose defensive weaknesses are "not as bad as people think" according to his manager, Rafael Benitez, ready to start for Liverpool against Manchester City tomorrow lunchtime.</p> Premier League Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/how-the-world-cup-bid-rivals-compare-1823935.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/how-the-world-cup-bid-rivals-compare-1823935.html ]]> <p>England's campaign to win the 2018 or 2022 World Cup faces a field of rivals that has never been so crowded or competitive. Partly this is because the tournaments for 2010 and 2014 were effectively shoo-ins for South Africa and Brazil. Football continues to expand, so more nations want a piece of the world's biggest single-sport event. The strengths and weakness of the field are as follows.</p> News & Comment Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/chelsea-target-boro-winger-in-1634m-loanback-1823933.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/chelsea-target-boro-winger-in-1634m-loanback-1823933.html ]]> <p>Chelsea are to planning to offer £4m for Middlesbrough's England Under-21 winger Adam Johnson in January, and then loan him back to the Championship side for the rest of the season.</p> Transfers Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/inside-englands-2018-campaign-ndash-how-the-votes-are-won-1823938.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/inside-englands-2018-campaign-ndash-how-the-votes-are-won-1823938.html ]]> <p>A fortnight ago a delegation from England's 2018 World Cup bid team, led by Lord Triesman, was in Paraguay to visit Dr Nicolas Leoz, the president of the Conmebol federation. Dr Leoz is one of 24 men who will vote on the hosts of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. </p> News & Comment Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/what-if-henry-had-done-the-decent-thing-1824116.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/what-if-henry-had-done-the-decent-thing-1824116.html ]]> <p>A wave of indignation and recrimination swept across the Irish Sea towards Paris yesterday after France's controversial passage to the World Cup finals via the outstretched left hand of Thierry Henry provoked an official demand from Dublin for a re-match and raised questions about the ethical obligations of multimillionaire footballers.</p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/exclusive-england-2018-bid-set-to-win-key-backing-from-europe-1823939.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/exclusive-england-2018-bid-set-to-win-key-backing-from-europe-1823939.html ]]> <p>England's bid to stage the 2018 World Cup has not been damaged by recent political infighting, according to exclusive canvassing by <i>The Independent</i> of members of the all-important Fifa Executive Committee (ExCo), which will decide the host for the 2018 and 2022 tournaments. </p> News & Comment Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/james-lawton-henry-has-never-been-an-angel-now-he-is-beyond-redemption-1823937.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/james-lawton-henry-has-never-been-an-angel-now-he-is-beyond-redemption-1823937.html ]]> <p>Irish football is entitled to believe it has never seen anything so cynical, so far removed from the spirit of sport, as the devilish hand played by Thierry Henry to deny Giovanni Trapattoni's team a place in the World Cup finals that would have been so thoroughly deserved.</p> News & Comment Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/henry-should-have-owned-up-says-wenger-1823936.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/henry-should-have-owned-up-says-wenger-1823936.html ]]> <p>Arsene Wenger yesterday said Thierry Henry should have admitted to his blatant handball that sent France to the World Cup finals, as the Football Association of Ireland called for their controversial World Cup play-off in Paris to be replayed.</p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/england-among-top-seeds-for-euro-2012-1823766.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/england-among-top-seeds-for-euro-2012-1823766.html ]]> <p> England have been named among the top seeds for February's European Championship qualifying draw - but Scotland are in the third band after falling down the rankings. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:56:56 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/fifa-set-to-reject-ireland-replay-appeal-1823761.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/fifa-set-to-reject-ireland-replay-appeal-1823761.html ]]> <p> FIFA are set to reject the Republic of Ireland's call for a replay of last night's World Cup qualifying play-off with France. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:54:19 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/ireland-call-for-replay-1823624.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/ireland-call-for-replay-1823624.html ]]> <p> Irish FA calls on Fifa to order a replay of the controversial World Cup playoff against France. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:57:39 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/ireland-call-for-match-to-be-replayed-1823616.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/ireland-call-for-match-to-be-replayed-1823616.html ]]> <p> Football Association of Ireland chief executive John Delaney has urged FIFA to uphold their own principles and "step up to the plate" by agreeing to replay last night's controversial World Cup play-off defeat by France. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:42:27 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/trapattoni-demands-answers-over-referee-1823613.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/trapattoni-demands-answers-over-referee-1823613.html ]]> <p> Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni wants FIFA to explain their choice of referee for last night's World Cup play-off against France in Paris. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:37:17 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/the-most-controversial-goals-in-football-1823571.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/the-most-controversial-goals-in-football-1823571.html ]]> <p> Thierry Henry secured France's path to the World Cup with a blatant handball to help set-up the winner against Ireland. </p> News & Comment Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:46:50 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/aquilani-desperate-for-liverpool-start-1823557.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/aquilani-desperate-for-liverpool-start-1823557.html ]]> <p> Italian midfielder Alberto Aquilani may have to be patient for a little longer before getting his first start for Liverpool since his £20m summer move from Roma. </p> Premier League Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:55:18 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/football-league/hughton-plays-down-campbells-newcastle-comments-1823556.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/football-league/hughton-plays-down-campbells-newcastle-comments-1823556.html ]]> <p> Newcastle manager Chris Hughton has played down reports linking Sol Campbell with a move to the club. </p> Football League Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:54:17 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/toure-happy-at-barcelona-1823490.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/toure-happy-at-barcelona-1823490.html ]]> <p> Barcaelona's Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure has again insisted that he is happy at the Camp Nou, amid talk of interest from several English clubs. </p> European Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:24:42 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/gattuso-not-joining-manchester-city-says-agent-1823489.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/gattuso-not-joining-manchester-city-says-agent-1823489.html ]]> <p> AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso is not on the verge of joining Manchester City, according to his agent. </p> Premier League Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:22:15 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/footballer-dies-during-routine-training-session-1823471.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/footballer-dies-during-routine-training-session-1823471.html <p> A United Arab Emirates footballer collapsed and died during a routine training session after suffering a massive heart attack yesterday. </p> News & Comment Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:31:13 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/manchester-city-star-barry-could-haunt-benitez-1823469.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/manchester-city-star-barry-could-haunt-benitez-1823469.html ]]> <p> Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez will get a close-up of the missing piece of his jigsaw puzzle on Saturday when Gareth Barry runs out for Manchester City at Anfield for a match with huge implications for both clubs. </p> Premier League Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:29:22 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/keane-blasts-platini-and-blatter-1823467.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/keane-blasts-platini-and-blatter-1823467.html ]]> <p> Robbie Keane hit out at the presidents of FIFA and UEFA following the Republic of Ireland's World Cup exit, claiming they would be "delighted" that France had gone through thanks to a hugely controversial winning goal. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:26:23 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenals-gibbs-on-course-for-chelsea-clash-1823458.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenals-gibbs-on-course-for-chelsea-clash-1823458.html ]]> <p> Arsenal have confirmed Kieran Gibbs' foot injury is not as bad as first feared - and he could now be fit to face Chelsea later this month. </p> Premier League Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:24:37 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/hiddink-silent-on-future-after-russia-exit-1823456.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/hiddink-silent-on-future-after-russia-exit-1823456.html ]]> <p> Coach Guus Hiddink was giving nothing away regarding his future as his Russia side were denied a place at the World Cup finals by Slovenia. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:22:55 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/fifa-seedings-pressured-referee-claims-brady-1823455.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/fifa-seedings-pressured-referee-claims-brady-1823455.html ]]> <p> Republic of Ireland assistant manager Liam Brady claims referee Martin Hansson "succumbed under pressure" in awarding France their controversial winning goal in last night's World Cup play-off in Paris. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:21:20 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/french-sympathy-for-ireland-exit-1823452.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/french-sympathy-for-ireland-exit-1823452.html ]]> <p> There was plenty of sympathy for the Republic of Ireland in the French media this morning after the controversial extra-time goal that denied them a place in next summer's World Cup finals. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:19:12 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/the-andy-cole-column-fosters-england-dream-will-delight-the-boss-1823042.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/the-andy-cole-column-fosters-england-dream-will-delight-the-boss-1823042.html ]]> <p> England's so-called goalkeeper crisis is no such thing. Most nations would be delighted to have three options who measure up to Ben Foster, David James and Robert Green. But on the vexed issue of whether Foster can expect to be picked when he is not the No 1 choice at Manchester United, I'd have to agree that he's on shaky ground, so he's well within his rights to be thinking about a loan or a move. And I'd bet, sincerely, that Sir Alex Ferguson loves that attitude too. </p> News & Comment Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/ghana-to-investigate-essien-absence-1823045.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/ghana-to-investigate-essien-absence-1823045.html ]]> <p>The Ghana Football Association will investigate the absence of the Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien, <i>Internazionale's</i> Sulley Muntari and the Rennes striker Asamoah Gyan from the squad which travelled to Luanda for yesterday's friendly against Angola.</p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-hire-dealmaker-to-fill-vacant-dein-role-1823046.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-hire-dealmaker-to-fill-vacant-dein-role-1823046.html ]]> <p>The director of football role that has remained unoccupied at Arsenal since the abrupt departure of David Dein two years ago has now unofficially been filled in part by an American who once scouted for the club in South America.</p> Premier League Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/aurelio-and-johnson-join-the-pilgrimage-to-placenta-guru-1823052.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/aurelio-and-johnson-join-the-pilgrimage-to-placenta-guru-1823052.html ]]> <p>Rafael Benitez has turned to the mystery horse placenta healer from Serbia to solve Liverpool's injury crisis it emerged last night, when Glen Johnson and Fabio Aurelio both flew into Belgrade to get treatment from the controversial Marijana Kovacevic.</p> Premier League Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/yahia-scorcher-sends-algeria-through-1823279.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/yahia-scorcher-sends-algeria-through-1823279.html ]]> <p>The first booking came within a minute, the first brawl within five, but between the fouls and scuffles in Omdurman last night there was a moment of footballing beauty. It was enough to ensure Algeria, not Egypt, will represent the Arab world in next summer's World Cup.</p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/ferguson-offered-a-way-back-to-national-side-1823048.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/ferguson-offered-a-way-back-to-national-side-1823048.html <p>Gordon Smith, the Scottish FA chief executive, believes the appointment of a new Scotland manager could herald the return to international football for shamed duo Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor as well as Kris Boyd, who withdrew his services under the country's former manager George Burley.</p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/germany-team-pay-enke-tribute-1823047.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/germany-team-pay-enke-tribute-1823047.html <p>The Germany team paid tribute to Robert Enke with a moving letter to the late goalkeeper ahead of last night's friendly against Ivory Coast.</p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/world-cup-roundup-nineman-russia-go-crashing-out-1823280.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/world-cup-roundup-nineman-russia-go-crashing-out-1823280.html ]]> <p><b>Slovenia v Russia</b></p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/hand-gaul-ireland-furious-as-henry-snatches-victory-1823317.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/hand-gaul-ireland-furious-as-henry-snatches-victory-1823317.html ]]> <p>Richard Dunne said last night that Thierry Henry had privately owned up to cheating after a blatant handball from the France striker set up the goal that eliminated the Republic of Ireland in the World Cup Finals play-off in Paris.</p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/henry-rips-prize-from-irish-grasp-1823281.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/henry-rips-prize-from-irish-grasp-1823281.html ]]> <p>Ireland awakes this morning trying to avoid the paranoia and anger felt by Giovanni Trapattoni and his players leaving the Stade de France last night.</p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/eduardo-signs-new-arsenal-contract-1822983.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/eduardo-signs-new-arsenal-contract-1822983.html ]]> <p> Arsenal striker Eduardo has signed a new "long-term" contract at the Emirates Stadium. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:34:18 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-gets-furred-up-for-charity-1822969.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-gets-furred-up-for-charity-1822969.html ]]> <p> Top Arsenal players have been dressing up in furry animal costumes to raise cash for sick children. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:19:34 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/footballs-bizarre-injury-treatments-1822967.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/footballs-bizarre-injury-treatments-1822967.html ]]> <p> Robin Van Persie this week jetted off to Belgrade to undergo a bizarre treatment for an ankle injury he sustained while on international duty. </p> News & Comment Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:18:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/injury-crisis-deepens-at-arsenal-1822880.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/injury-crisis-deepens-at-arsenal-1822880.html ]]> <p> Mikael Silvestre is ready to ease Arsenal's defensive crisis after an ankle injury to left-back Kieran Gibbs. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:35:48 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/ferguson-laments-fragile-stars-1822876.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/ferguson-laments-fragile-stars-1822876.html ]]> <p> Sir Alex Ferguson admits the toughest part of his job these days is dealing with today's "fragile" footballers. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:31:06 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/liverpool-sign-luton-youngster-moli-1822838.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/liverpool-sign-luton-youngster-moli-1822838.html <p> Liverpool have paid an undisclosed fee for Luton youngster Dave Moli. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:47:00 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/bentley-linked-with-shock-manchester-city-move-1822830.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/bentley-linked-with-shock-manchester-city-move-1822830.html ]]> <p> Mark Hughes could save David Bentley from his Tottenham nightmare with an £8m move in January. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:17:36 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/chelsea-move-in-on-pound40m-aguero-1822808.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/chelsea-move-in-on-pound40m-aguero-1822808.html ]]> <p> Chelsea will push through a £40m deal for Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero it was reported today. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:58:20 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/disgraced-scotland-duo-free-to-return-1822799.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/disgraced-scotland-duo-free-to-return-1822799.html ]]> <p> Gordon Smith today opened the door for a sensational return to international football for shamed duo Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor. </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:36:29 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/ronaldo-on-track-for-el-clasico-return-1822787.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/ronaldo-on-track-for-el-clasico-return-1822787.html ]]> <p> Cristiano Ronaldo is on track to be fit for Real Madrid's 'El Clasico' showdown with Barcelona later in the month after being given the all clear to return to training. </p> European Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:53:02 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/west-ham-insist-no-takeover-bids-have-been-received-1822779.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/west-ham-insist-no-takeover-bids-have-been-received-1822779.html <p> West Ham today maintained there has not yet been any new formal takeover bid for the Barclays Premier League club. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:47:23 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arteta-wants-longterm-everton-stay-1822778.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arteta-wants-longterm-everton-stay-1822778.html <p> Injured Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta has a vision of getting fit and remaining at Goodison Park for the rest of his career. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:46:10 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/weir-hits-back-after-too-thick-slur-1822732.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/weir-hits-back-after-too-thick-slur-1822732.html ]]> <p> David Weir has hit back at Craig Burley's claim that some of Scotland's players were "too thick" to understand his uncle George's coaching methods. </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:31:39 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/player-quits-after-threat-from-hardcore-fans-1822731.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/player-quits-after-threat-from-hardcore-fans-1822731.html <p> Tigre midfielder Matias Gimenez, threatened by his own team's hardcore fans who accuse him of not trying hard enough, would not play for the club any longer, he said today. </p> News & Comment Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:29:47 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/benitez-desperate-for-premier-league-glory-1822730.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/benitez-desperate-for-premier-league-glory-1822730.html ]]> <p> Rafael Benitez would rather win the Barclays Premier League trophy than another Champions League title. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:27:30 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/only-chelsea-can-challenge-manchester-united-says-ferguson-1822728.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/only-chelsea-can-challenge-manchester-united-says-ferguson-1822728.html ]]> <p> Sir Alex Ferguson believes the Premier League will turn into a two-horse race as usual this season. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:26:14 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/henry-not-expecting-ireland-revenge-1822708.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/henry-not-expecting-ireland-revenge-1822708.html ]]> <p> France striker Thierry Henry does not believe the Republic of Ireland will take to the field at the Stade de France this evening intent on revenge. </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:21:43 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/keane-urges-final-effort-from-irish-1822576.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/keane-urges-final-effort-from-irish-1822576.html ]]> <p> When the final whistle sounds at the Stade de France tonight, the Irish mood will be determined by cold, hard facts. Not hope or belief or all the other buzzwords that they have spoken of throughout this World Cup campaign. </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 02:46:20 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/world-cup-in-brief-henry-aware-of-threat-posed-by-irish-1822318.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/world-cup-in-brief-henry-aware-of-threat-posed-by-irish-1822318.html <p> <i>France v Republic of Ireland </i> </p> <p> Striker Thierry Henry says his team will not underestimate Ireland in tonight's second leg of their qualifying play-off in Paris, despite the home side going into the game 1-0 up from Saturday's first match. "We have to play as if it is a one-off, we can't think about any advantage we may have," the Barcelona forward said. "It won't be easy. We're not expecting to just go out and to create loads of scoring chances. Ireland are a very hard team to play against." </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/nilmar-strikes-again-as-brazil-cruise-to-one-more-victory-1822319.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/nilmar-strikes-again-as-brazil-cruise-to-one-more-victory-1822319.html <p> Brazil rounded off a successful pre-World Cup year yesterday with a 2-0 friendly win in Oman to take their tally to 14 victories in 17 matches. Nilmar opened the scoring in the fourth minute and Oman midfielder Hassan Ghailani headed into his own goal just past the hour. </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/collins-joins-scotland-contenders-1822321.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/collins-joins-scotland-contenders-1822321.html ]]> <p>John Collins yesterday became the latest person to throw his hat in the ring to succeed George Burley as the Scotland manager. "I'd be interested in managing the national team," said the 41-year-old, formerly in charge at Hibernian. "But I don't want to appear as if I am touting for a job."</p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/domenech-pleads-for-fans-backing-1822320.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/domenech-pleads-for-fans-backing-1822320.html ]]> <p>Raymond Domenech, the France coach, hopes Saturday's hard-fought 1-0 win in Ireland proves a turning point in persuading the moody French public to finally get behind their team during tonight's return leg of their World Cup play-off.</p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/city-widen-net-to-catch-talent-of-tomorrow-1822324.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/city-widen-net-to-catch-talent-of-tomorrow-1822324.html ]]> <p>Manchester City, who have arguably British football's best recent track record in developing local talent, are embarking on an Arsène Wenger-style model of bringing in young players from outside, amid concerns that the current crop of youngsters do not have what it takes to help fulfil the club's huge ambition.</p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/benfica-look-to-tie-di-maria-to-club-until-next-summer-1822326.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/benfica-look-to-tie-di-maria-to-club-until-next-summer-1822326.html <p>Benfica are refusing to enter a pre-contract agreement for their winger Angel di Maria in the hope that his performances in next year's World Cup for Argentina will trigger an auction.</p> Transfers Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/a-matter-of-life-and-death-egypt-vs-algeria-is-more-important-than-that-1822424.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/a-matter-of-life-and-death-egypt-vs-algeria-is-more-important-than-that-1822424.html ]]> <p>Had Bill Shankly hailed from Cairo rather than a Scottish mining village, he might have said: "Football's not a matter of life and death – but it can cost you your eyesight." Ask the Egyptian team doctor who lost an eye after being attacked with a broken bottle by an Algerian footballer when the two countries last met for a place in the World Cup finals two decades ago.</p> News & Comment Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/gibbs-injury-adds-to-wengers-worries-1822327.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/gibbs-injury-adds-to-wengers-worries-1822327.html ]]> <p>Arsene Wenger's injury crisis took another turn for the worse last night when his current first-choice left-back Kieran Gibbs limped out of the England Under-21s game against Lithuania. With Gaël Clichy already out for another month, it leaves Wenger casting around for a third-string replacement in his defence.</p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/benitez-willing-to-let-four-depart-1822325.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/benitez-willing-to-let-four-depart-1822325.html ]]> <p> Liverpool appear to be ready to release as many as four players in January, with Ryan Babel, Andrea Dossena, Andrei Voronin and Philipp Degen among those who may leave as part of the club's attempts to lower the wage bill. </p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/terry-and-cole-back-in-training-to-boost-chelsea-1822323.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/terry-and-cole-back-in-training-to-boost-chelsea-1822323.html ]]> <p>Chelsea duo John Terry and Ashley Cole both returned to first-team training yesterday and could yet be fit for the Premier League leaders' match against Wolverhampton on Saturday.</p> Premier League Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/drogba-can-be-the-centrepiece-of-africas-greatest-ever-team-1822322.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/drogba-can-be-the-centrepiece-of-africas-greatest-ever-team-1822322.html ]]> <p> Whichever team wins what is expected to be the liveliest of play-offs in Sudan today between Algeria and Egypt will complete the largest African representation – six countries – yet seen at the World Cup finals. </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/beaglehole-sets-sights-on-future-glory-1822267.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/internationals/beaglehole-sets-sights-on-future-glory-1822267.html <p> Steve Beaglehole has more or less written off qualification for the 2011 Uefa under-21 Championships - but he is full of hope that Northern Ireland will be in the finals for the first time in 2013. </p> International Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:00:38 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/vidic-unfazed-by-ferguson-ban-1822266.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/vidic-unfazed-by-ferguson-ban-1822266.html ]]> <p> Nemanja Vidic insists Sir Alex Ferguson's two-game touchline ban will not make any difference to Manchester United. </p> Premier League Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:57:31 +0000