Ayala retires at Valencia

Valencia defender Roberto Ayala will end his career at Villarreal.

The 33 year-old Argentine is inside the final year of his contract at the Mestalla and his agent, Gustavo Mascardi, has struck terms over a three-year pre-contract with the Yellow Submarines.
As part of the deal, Ayala will have to cough up £2 million to Villarreal should he sign for another club upon his departure from Valencia.
Los Che president Juan Soler has so far refused to sell the veteran, who is wanted by Villarreal after Gonzalo Rodriguez's injury suffered earlier this month.
Mascardi, meanwhile, dismissed reports that he's talking to Real Madrid on Ayala's behalf: "The player won't consider going there."

Buffon talk to Roma

Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon has revealed Roma have made contact about a loan move to the capital.
The Italy No1 said: "Someone from Roma proposed the idea to me. But at Juve, they did not take the loan offer well and then has closed the doors to everyone."
Asked about David Trezeguet's potential move to Manchester United, Buffon added: "If Trezeguet has other offers, it is only right that he takes the option he favours.
"Both parties in negotiation must be as happy as possible. To limit players from moving can be damaging here."

Rijkaard axed Ronaldinho

Frank Rijkaard axed Ronaldinho from Barcelona's 3-2 win at Celta Vigo after the Brazilian skipped a training session.

The Guardian says Barca claimed the Brazilian was carrying a slight muscle injury, although it has emerged that the decision was a punishment for missing a training session on Saturday.
Despite the fact that Ronaldinho missed a whole series of sessions without being left out during Barcelona's title-winning season two years ago, Rijkaard's policy on the importance of training sessions is now clearer and Ronaldinho was immediately left out of the squad to face Celta.
There have also been suggestions that Rijkaard was furious at Ronaldinho's involvement in a commercial endorsement on the morning of the European Super Cup final in Monaco.
But Ronaldinho was understood to be equally angry that Rijkaard should single him out when it was a commercial commitment imposed upon him by the club. He has also been frustrated by the club's failure so far to renew the terms of his contract, as promised in the spring.

Vieri joins Atalanta

Atalanta have completed the signing of striker Christian Vieri.

Although no financial details have been released, it's believed he agreed to a minimum wage deal of just over £1,000 per month to join the side he originally played for in 1995-96.
There had been fears he would retire from the game completely following brief spells at Milan, Monaco and Sampdoria, the latter experience not even stretching to a single training session before his contract was terminated by mutual consent.
"Atalanta is the right choice," said the forward. "It is not an issue of money. I have already had big contracts, now I only want to return to play and to do so with an important club, that I know well and with a president who I have already worked for, it is very important.
"I want to do well, the objective is to avoid relegation. The only thing that I feel I can guarantee the public of Bergamo is maximum effort."
On his cancelled contract with Sampdoria, Vieri added: "If I had time I would explain everything. Perhaps I will do so in the future."

Iaquinta could join Juventus

Udinese director general Roberto Zanzi can't rule out a move to Juventus for star striker Vincenzo Iaquinta.
Juve are eyeing Iaquinta as a replacement for Manchester United target David Trezeguet and Zanzi said: "There is still nothing, but we are calm.
"The player clearly is attractive to the bigger clubs after the optimal World Cup he has played. However it is possible that he remains in Udine, we won't be disappointed to keep him.
"A transfer to Juventus? Difficult, but nothing can be ruled out."

Ronaldo Red Devils for life

Cristiano Ronaldo has declared he wants to become a Manchester United legend after breaking his silence over the great wink saga.
Ronaldo has become a hate figure amongst Premiership fans for his part in getting England star Wayne Rooney sent off during the World Cup.
The wing wizard, who said during the World Cup that he wanted to quit United for Spanish giants Real Madrid, told the Mirror: "When we are hot-headed, sometimes we say things we don't mean to, or, at least, that are not appropriate.

"I have been here since I was 18 years old, the club have supported me from the first to the last minute of my career, things have gone well. I have developed a lot in all aspects, physically as well as mentally, which has all been very gratifying for me."
And on becoming a United legend, he said: "It is an important phenomenon. To stay at the club until the end of my career...we will see what happens.
"It is true that I said that one day I would like to play in Spain. But if that does not happen, it will not be a problem. I am at United and I feel very good.
"This is one of the biggest clubs in the world. My ambition was always to play for a big club - and here I am. There is one thing I am sure of: Manchester United are the ideal club for me."
Ronaldo admits after the World Cup he received death threats and had extra security put on his house in Manchester, but insists that he never fell out with Rooney.
"Most people think that I had a hassle with him, but that isn't true," said Ronaldo. "Throughout my career I have always defended, and in any circumstances, my country.
"It could be that my best friends play for other teams but, firstly, I will defend my country and my shirt.
"Secondly, what actually happened was an absolutely normal thing, and I believe any player who was in my situation would have done the same thing.
"And thirdly, I haven't had any problem with Wayne Rooney. He is my colleague and my friend, and we continue to get along fine."

Cole fume at Arsenal

Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein rejected a mega £21 million bid from Chelsea for Ashley Cole, it has been revealed.

The Mirror says chief executive Peter Kenyon made the take-it-or-leave-it bid during a telephone conversation with Dein, who insisted on holding out for £25m.
Cole, 25, who last night reported for international duty, has been given permission by the FA to leave England's Manchester headquarters and dash back to London if Chelsea make a last-gasp attempt to sign him.
But Cole and his advisers have privately given up on the deal happening - and are furious with Dein for snubbing Chelsea's offer of £21m, although the Blues' formal written bid of £16.5m is still on the table.

Villian lure Defoe

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is ready to splash out £9 million of Randy Lerner's money on Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe.
The Mirror says O'Neill wants a new striker after offloading Kevin Phillips to West Brom and has identified Defoe as a leading target as the England youngster's Spurs nightmare continues.
The 23-year-old started Spurs' opening-day defeat to Bolton but has since been relegated to the bench, with Dimitar Berbatov and Robbie Keane getting the nod in the last two games.

Saviola the next Villian

Barcelona striker Javier Saviola remains a target for Aston Villa, insists his agent.
Saviola has already rejected a switch to Bolton but Villa, backed by billionaire new owner Randy Lerner, could have the cash to tempt him to the Premiership.
Agent Alfredo Cabrera - when asked if the Midlanders had made a bid for his client - said: "It is true. We have options in Spain, England and Italy, but there will not be definitive movement until Wednesday."

Tevez flies in to Arsenal

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is close to clinching a deal for Corinthians ace Carlos Tevez.

The Sun says Wenger is close to winning his £18 million battle with Manchester United for Tevez.
The Argentine will be in London today to undergo a medical before rubber-stamping his move to the Gunners.
Strike star Tevez, 22, has always insisted he preferred London ahead of Manchester.
It is understood boss Wenger and the Gunners had been willing to offer Tevez a five-year deal - although United could have topped their wages.
Tevez, among Argentina's best-paid players on around £20,000 a week, was yesterday trying to sort out a cash wrangle with his Argentine club Corinthians.
He was in Paris with club president Alberto Dualib to negotiate loyalty bonuses and other payments before deciding on his destination.

Man Utd looking at Mascherano

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is returning to former midfield target Javier Mascherano of Corinthians.

The Sun says Ferguson could turn to the Argentine ace, with Owen Hargreaves now looking set to STAY at Bayern Munich.
Mascherano, 22, has gone missing from his Brazilian club Corinthians.
But the midfielder is likely to play for Argentina against Brazil at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Mascherano, also a target for Roma, is valued at £30million and that may deter United boss Fergie from launching an official bid.
The United boss is fed up that weeks of negotiations with Bayern over Hargreaves have failed to lead to a deal.

Arsenal hope for changed Cole

Arsenal are convinced Ashley Cole's move to Chelsea is now dead.
Gunners' sources have told The Sun that talks have broken down between the clubs because Chelsea would not consider letting them have William Gallas.

Blues offered a straight swap of Gallas for Cole but Arsenal dismissed that as a ludicrous proposition.
They offered £5million for Gallas while demanding £25m for Cole, which was rejected outright.
Cole's immediate future with Arsenal appears to be with the reserves. He made a shock appearance for them in a 4-0 win over Charlton on Monday.
His explosive book, which slams the Gunners, was due for publication at the end of this month but will now either have to be put on ice or significantly modified.
Chairman Peter Hill-Wood said: "If he is going to stay, I hope his attitude is right. If he is going to be miserable and sour, there is no point. Hopefully, he will get his head right."

Spurs hijacked Malbranque

Tottenham have reportedly trumped West Ham for Fulham midfielder Steed Malbranque.
The Sun says Spurs boss Martin Jol completed a hectic day of transfer activity when he hijacked Malbranque's £2.5million move from Fulham to West Ham.
Hammers boss Alan Pardew was confident of signing French midfielder Malbranque this week.

But the player made it clear he preferred a move to White Hart Lane and expects to sign a £30,000-a-week contract today.
Malbranque, 26, will become the final piece in Jol's jigsaw after a dismal start to the new season.
He has been out in the cold at Fulham since refusing to sign a new Craven Cottage contract.
Now Malbranque will fill the gap on the left of Tottenham's midfield after Jol abandoned his pursuit of Middlesbrough's England winger Stewart Downing.
His move to White Hart Lane will be a kick in the teeth for West Ham following Michael Carrick's £18.6m switch to Manchester United this month.
The Hammers received just £3m when they sold Carrick to Spurs two years ago.
But they failed to insert a sell-on clause into the deal and watched Spurs pocket a £15.6m profit on the player.
It is that money which has financed Spurs' sudden burst of transfer activity which also included the signings of Mido and Pascal Chimbonda.

Man Utd make final offer

Manchester United will make a final bid for Bayern Munich midfielder Owen Hargreaves before tomorrow's transfer deadline.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is fed up that weeks of negotiations with Bayern over Hargreaves have failed to lead to a deal.

And the player has now had the onus put on him to get the Germans to agree - or risk seeing his dream move to the Premiership come to nothing.
Ferguson wants to make a final £18m bid before the transfer window closes at midnight tomorrow, despite the player's agent claiming Bayern have won their battle to keep him.
Hargreaves, 25, had hoped to bide his time in Munich and wait for United to return when the window reopens in January.
But Fergie has ruled that out, fearing the midfielder will have become cup-tied for the Champions League.
United also refuse to be dragged through the same saga with Bayern next summer.
Hargreaves may even have become surplus to requirements in 12 months' time if the likes of Darren Fletcher, John O'Shea and youngster David Jones continue to progress at Old Trafford.

Mido nearer to Spurs

Tottenham have confirmed they have re-signed Roma striker Mido, subject to a work permit, for a fee believed to be in the region of £4 million.

The 23-year-old Egyptian striker spent 18 months on loan at White Hart Lane before going back to Italian club Roma last summer.
Manager Martin Jol told the club's official website: "We've been tracking Mido since his loan ended and we were always keen to bring him back.
"Roma took some persuading and I'm delighted to have him in the squad.
"He knows I like him as a player, his strength in the air and his mentality. It's an excellent addition to the squad and our striking options are now complete."
Mido said: "I'm very happy to be back. It was and it always will be a great honour for me to play for Tottenham.
"I always knew in my heart I would be coming back. It is a fantastic move for me, I have some good friends here and it will be good to be back with the lads. I saw them training today and I'm looking forward to working with Martin and Chris again.
"I can't wait to pull on a Tottenham shirt, to play at the Lane and score some goals."

Woodgate keep Boro waiting

Middlesbrough are expecting an answer from Real Madrid defender Jonathan Woodgate inside the next 24 hours over a loan move to The Riverside.

The 26-year-old England international was on Teesside on Monday to discuss the proposed deal, but left having asked for time to think over his decision.
Speaking after Monday night's 4-0 drubbing home by Portsmouth, Gareth Southgate said: "We have had discussions with him and he wants time to think about what he wants to do.
"Hopefully he has not had the television on while he is thinking about that. But we should know something in the next 24 hours.
"He wants to be sure of what he wants to. But I am quite hopeful.
"We have done everything we can to try to make it happen, so I hope we have some positive news on it tomorrow."

Quinn forget the past and take Keane

New Sunderland boss Roy Keane has admitted he had intended to wait longer before stepping into the world of football management.

Former Manchester United captain Keane took over the Black Cats following their victory against West Brom on Monday.
And the former Republic of Ireland skipper said: "When I retired I thought I'd have one or two years out of the game but after going on my 'A' badge course and being on the training pitch with people I thought 'I think this is for me'.
"I thought I had to give it a go. If it doesn't work out at least I can say I did that, if I hadn't taken it I may have looked back in six months.''
Keane also revealed he did speak with Niall Quinn about the possibility of taking over earlier in the summer.
He said: "Three months ago I spoke with the owners and Niall but my priority at that time was to start working on getting my coaching badge in July and August.
"In that time they didn't get a manager. They came back in last Monday when I was in Portugal and initially I thought I was going to wait longer. But I thought 'what am I waiting for, the challenge is there'.
"Sunderland is a big club, with a beautiful stadium, a big fan base and I thought 'why not?"'
Niall Quinn has laughed off suggestions of a lingering feud with new Sunderland boss Roy Keane.
Keane famously branded Quinn "a muppet" and "a coward" in his autobiography for failing to back him over his vicious tirade at manager Mick McCarthy during the Republic of Ireland's World Cup training camp in Saipan four years ago.
However, any dispute appears to have been forgotten as the pair attempt to steer Sunderland back into the Premiership.
"All managers and chairmen have rows," smiled Quinn.
"We just got all ours out of the way over the last few years."

8,000 fans welcome Joaquin

Over 8,000 Valencia fans welcomed record £16.5 million signing Joaquin to the Mestalla yesterday.

The stunning reception lifted the wing ace after he left Real Betis with critical comments ringing in his ears from patron Manuel Ruiz de Lopera in the morning.
"When I decided to change the course of my professional life I knew what I could be facing," said Joaquin. "These are things that hurt me because I do not deserve them. I will always be proud of the colors of Betis, but the moment arrived to make a jump as footballer.
"Valencia has bet on me and I on Valencia. That they have paid so much inspires me to work hard and to try to do the best possible thing so that the team is among the best ones."

Gudjohsen volley the first win

Eidur Gudjohnsen admitted he made a "dream debut" after scoring a stunning winner for Barcelona in last night's 3-2 victory at Celta Vigo.

The Icelander volleyed home a superb strike to decide yesterday's Primera Liga opener, "It was a dream to score on debut.
"But the important thing is the three points, not my goal.
"It's nice to be compared with Larsson, but it will be very difficult to pass his record."
Samuel Eto'o was critical of his Barca teammates after the match.
"We have a great group, but we must have a little more concentration in plays in which it seems that there is no danger but there still exists some," said the Cameroon star, who also scored on the night.

AC Milan offer for Robinho

AC Milan have tabled a sensational offer for Real Madrid winger Robinho.
After seeing a move for Real striker Ronaldo come to nothing and talks stall over a transfer fee for Real Betis forward Ricardo Oliveira, Milan have again tried their luck in the Spanish market with a bid for Robinho.
Milan tabled an offer of £17 million for the Brazil international yesterday. Robinho's agent, Wagner Ribeiro, has a close relationship with Milan, having sold Kaka to the Italian giants for just £6 million after previously offering him to Real Madrid for the same price.

Real Madrid offer Ronaldo to Roma

Real Madrid have offered Ronaldo to Roma as part of a swap deal.
Brazilian media agency Placar says Real were willing to exchange Ronaldo in a straight swap for one from Cristian Chivu or Philippe Mexes.
Both players are in the sights of Real coach Fabio Capello, who wants a new centre-half added to his squad before the Spanish transfer deadline falls.
However, the swap was a non-starter as Ronaldo's personal demands are far too rich for Roma's strict wage cap.

Lee link to Roma

Tottenham defender Lee Young-pyo could be set for a move to Roma, according to the player's agent.
Roma have held a long-term interest in Lee and tried to sign him last January.
The Giallorossi are in the market for a new defender and are hoping to lure Lee to the Italian capital.
Lee, who played at left back last season, has been moved to right back this term following the arrival of Benoit Assou-Ekotto.
Spurs could be willing to do a swap deal with Roma as they are reported to be back on the trail of Egyptian striker Mido.
Lee's South Korean agent Chin Sung-Won has said that a deal is close to being completed.
"Tottenham and AS Roma have agreed in principle to the transfer of Young-pyo Lee," Sung-Won told the Yonhap news agency.
"We are in talks with AS Roma on detailed contract terms.
"You can consider the deal as almost sealed, as the only remaining procedure is the player's decision."
Should Lee move on it could see Spurs make a renewed bid to sign long-term target Pascal Chimbonda.

Lerner splash £100M for Villa

New Aston Villa owner Randy Lerner is putting together a massive £100 million sponsorship deal to help manager Martin O'Neill compete at the top-end of the transfer market.
Lerner has already been using the contacts built up as owner of NFL team Cleveland Browns to begin raising Villa's profile worldwide.
The Sunday Mercury says Lerner's backers are being kept under wraps but he is believed to be talking to major companies already and it is hoped that a deal could be done by Christmas - just before the January transfer window opens.

Sir Bobby step in for Owen

Sir Bobby Charlton could be the key to Manchester United's bid for Owen Hargreaves being successful this week.

The United director's long working relationship and friendship with Bayern Munich president Franz Beckenbauer, that stretches back to the World Cup final in 1966, may prove to be their last throw of the dice.

Bayern have consistently refused to welcome any offers from Old Trafford for Hargreaves and United haven't made a formal bid - and an £18m offer could also help United director Charlton in his diplomatic efforts.

Hargreaves himself has made several public pleas to try to persuade his employers to cave in to the point where his relationship with general manager Uli Hoeness is at breaking point.

Sir Alex Ferguson admits the impasse still remains, saying: "It is stalemate. David Gill spoke to their finance guy in Monaco when he was at the Champions League draw last Thursday but nothing came of it."

Newcastle close to 3 new signings

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder has revealed he's working on three new signings before Thursday's transfer deadline.
"With Jean-Alain Boumsong having left the club, that's an area of the team that I hope we can strengthen before Thursday (the transfer deadline)," he said. "We're working on a couple of options as we speak.
"We still need to strengthen the squad a bit more before the window closes and, if I can get what I want, I will be happy to attack the rest of the season with this squad.
"If I can get the three players I want, I will take my chances and be very pleased. Until the ink dries on a contract, you never know, but I think we are in pole position with them."

Malbranque's heart with Spurs

West Ham have agreed a £2 million fee with Fulham for midfielder Steed Malbranque.
However, the Guardian says Malbranque is believed to favour a move to Spurs but West Ham have put together a lucrative financial package which they hope will ensure the 26-year-old joins them.
Malbranque has rejected offers from Bolton Wanderers, Everton and Middlesbrough to stay in London, having turned down a new contract at Fulham.

Spurs improved bid for Baptista

Tottenham have made an improved bid for Real Madrid utility Julio Baptista.
Spurs have made an increased bid of £13.5 million for Real Madrid's Baptista, 24. Boss Martin Jol's offer matches the fee Real paid Seville for the Brazilian last summer and is likely to be accepted.
If Jol succeeds it will be a massive victory over arch-rivals Arsenal. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger went all out to sign the Samba ace last summer before he opted for Real.
Jol wants to pair Baptista with his midfield pitbull Edgar Davids.

Man Utd table £10 million for Trezeguet

Manchester United have made a £10 million bid for Juventus star striker David Trezeguet.
The French international striker wants a move following the Turin side's enforced relegation to the Italian Serie B after the match-fixing scandal.
Yesterday Trezeguet's father - who also acts as his agent - met with Red Devils officials about a possible move before the transfer window closes on Thursday.
Juve president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli has privately admitted that United have made a bid for the 28-year-old player, says The Sun.
That is believed to be in the region of £10million, although Juve are said to be demanding £17m.

Arsenal offer £17 million for Tevez

Arsenal are ready to table a £17 million bid for Corinthians star Carlos Tevez.

The Sun says Arsenal hope to invoke a get-out clause in midfielder Tevez's contract with his Brazilian club Corinthians. They originally claimed his contract said he could quit for £30m - but Tevez's agent revealed it actually says 30 million US DOLLARS.
Tevez is lined up to play for Argentina in a friendly against Brazil at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
The ideal plan is to unveil Tevez as a Gunners player before kick-off.
Manchester United had been leading the race for Tevez, who made a huge impact at Germany 2006.
But they could only move if they failed to lure Owen Hargreaves from Bayern Munich.
United cannot afford both and boss Alex Ferguson has kept England midfielder Hargreaves top of his summer shopping list.

Mourinho demand Gallas's explaination

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho wants William Gallas to explain to fans why he won't play for the club.

The Blues manager is furious Gallas is prepared to go on strike rather than play for his side again.
And he reckons the French defender - who has not featured for Chelsea at all this season - should get his reasons out in the open.
Mourinho said: "The best thing to do is ask him.
"There are a lot of answers but answers he should be the one to tell.
"It is not that I don't want to tell but I shouldn't be the one to say things that he should.
"This situation deserves a Press conference."
Gallas has been linked with Arsenal as part of a player-plus-cash deal for Ashley Cole or a straight £5million transfer.

Ronaldinho bust up alert Chelsea

Chelsea have been alerted to a bust-up between Ronaldinho and Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard.
Chelsea and AC Milan have been put on red alert that Ronaldinho could demand showdown talks about his future.

The Blues' Champions League opponents kicked off their La Liga campaign last night in turmoil after Ronaldinho was left out.
The World Player of the Year did not travel to Celta Vigo after angering Rijkaard by missing training on Saturday.
Rijkaard had hauled in his players in response to their 3-0 humiliation by Seville in the European Super Cup final.
He was furious with the Brazilian for carrying out promotional work just hours before the defeat in Monaco, where he looked below-par.
Ronaldinho, 26, was the only star not to join training, invoking Rijkaard's rule that if a player does not train 48 hours before a match he is axed.
One source told The Sun: "Ronaldinho was being punished. Rijkaard was showing the same rules apply for everyone, no matter how big the star is. But things are not good in the dressing room."
The row puts Ronaldinho's future in the balance as he has been left waiting for nearly a year for a new contract.

Bommel not replacing Owen

Bayern Munich general manager Uli Hoeness has again declared they have no intention of selling Owen Hargreaves to Manchester United this week.

It had been thought Mark Van Bommel's move from Barcelona could pave the way for Hargreaves to join Manchester United.
Van Bommel himself was quoted as saying Hargreaves was "close to leaving".
But Hoeness again insisted: "We want to move forward with Mark and Owen. We would be crazy to sign Van Bommel as a replacement for Hargreaves."
Hargreaves, 25, has already expressed his desire to move to Old Trafford.
The England international's contract with Bayern expires in 2010 and the German club are determined to keep him.

Portsmouth thrash Boro

Portsmouth thumped Middlesbrough 4-0 at the Riverside to go second on the Premiership table tonight.
Kanu's brace brought the hosts crashing back to earth after their win over Chelsea, the striker poking home from close-range to put Pompey in front.

Boro's Yakubu was twice foiled by David James before Benjani Mwaruwari was left unmarked to head in from a corner.
Kanu made it 3-0 with a fabulous solo effort and substitute Svetoslav Todorov chipped in a fourth in stoppage time.
Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate said afterwards: "We still have plenty we need to work on.
"Everyone knows they did not produce but I take responsibility and we'll dust ourselves down and start again.
"Let's give Portsmouth credit because they look a good side. We didn't hit the heights of the other night against Chelsea and we will look at why. We must improve."
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp also said: "Kanu was sitting around all summer and no one else wanted him - anybody could have had him, he was just waiting and he has been fantastic.
"It was a good performance, we did ever so well, but I do worry if we get injuries we'll be bang in trouble.
"Linvoy Primus, Sol Campbell and David James did really well. Sol's a rock."

Sunderland celebrate Keane's arrival in style

Roy Keane has been confirmed as Sunderland's new manager by putting pen to paper on a three-year deal following The Black Cats' 2-0 win over West Brom on Monday.

Chairman Niall Quinn has spoken of a need to install a winning mentality at the North East club, and with Keane watching on Sunderland ended a five-game losing streak against Bryan Robson's West Brom on Monday afternoon.
"Roy has signed, it's done and dusted," said Quinn on the club's official website. "This represents a major coup for our football club.
"The fact that one of the most influential figures in world football is willing to come and help unlock the massive potential here should make all Sunderland fans very happy and excited for the future.
"Roy Keane's standards of professionalism are legendary and his desire and determination to succeed are precisely what this club requires.
"Let's all support and enjoy one of football's true greats as he embarks on what we all hope will be a fantastic new chapter in Sunderland Football Club's rich and proud history."

Makelele cools down rift

Claude Makelele has moved to calm the war of words that is currently simmering between Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho and his France counterpart Raymond Domenech.
Mourinho is enraged at the fact Makelele has been called up for France's upcoming Euro 2008 qualifiers against Georgia and Italy, despite retiring from international football after the World Cup.
The 33-year-old, who remains instrumental for both club and country, had decided to hang up his illustrious international boots following France's World Cup final defeat to Italy.
However, Les Bleus coach Domenech has warned Chelsea that should Makelele fail to make himself available then he could be banned for four domestic matches.
Mourinho has since claimed France are treating his player like a 'slave' after launching a vitriolic attack in the direction of Domenech.
In a bid to quell any further discord Makelele has suggested Mourinho's words were perhaps, on reflection, a little too strong.
"The words of my coach are a little strong," he told TV channel TPS star. "He probably went too far.
"He expresses himself in a different way when he talks. But his disappointment is logical.
"There was an agreement after the World Cup for me to quit the national team. But I talked with the national coach.
"He believes I am still able to bring something. I have absolutely nothing against him. I am back with the national team.
"Of course it is a difficult situation, because I will play more matches and so will be more tired. But I am on the list. I am forced to go."
While Makelele has conceded it will be a drain on his energy to play both domestically and internationally, he insists it remains very much an honour to represent his country.
"The French team remains something huge to me," he added. "Everyone knows me. Above all I am a professional. I do my job.
"Even if my club doesn’t agree, I will humbly honour that call. It is normal to wear my country’s shirt."

Geordies and Spurs fight for Mido

Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly fighting it out for Egyptian striker Hossam Mido's services.
The 23-year-old performed impressively in his 18-month loan spell at White Hart Lane from January 2005.
But he has since returned to parent club Roma, turning down the opportunity to join Blackburn Rovers in favour of resurrecting his career at the Stadio Olimpico.
Despite his apparent desire to remain in Serie A the links with English sides refuse to die down.
Rumours of a rift with coach Luciano Spalletti have fuelled the speculation, and the Italians have refused to rule out the possibility that he may return to England.
With the transfer deadline looming large on Thursday, Glenn Roeder and Martin Jol's men could yet make loan move for the Giallorossi striker.

Woodgate is coming home

Jonathan Woodgate has confirmed that he is on his way back to England.
The Real Madrid ace has been told by the Spanish giants that they want him to get regular first team football and he is ready to seal a switch back to The Premiership in the coming days.
Real have accepted at least one loan offer, as skysports.com can confirm that Middlesbrough have indeed made a move for the Teesside-born player.
Former club Newcastle also appear to be keen, while Arsenal are also being strongly linked to make a move - but Liverpool ruled themselves out of the running on Friday.
Woodgate himself has accepted the fact he will be spending next season in The Premiership.
"I am going away to play on loan for a year, in the next few hours I will know which team I will be playing for," he said.
"All the English that want me I like, and it will be a positive thing for me to return to England.
"I need to play games in order to prove I am strong and that I am totally recovered from injury, but here [Spain] it is hard to get continuity.
"It is better that I have one season playing in England and in one year I will return to Madrid and demonstrate that I am good football player."
Injuries have limited Woodgate to just nine league starts since his move £13.5 million from Newcastle in 2004.
Real still see a future for Woodgate but they want him to prove his fitness - although reports are suggesting that they will look to seal a deal for Roma star Cristian Chivu of Roma.
Chivu could arrive to help bolster Real's squad whilst Woodgate is away and then in 12 months the Englishman could compete for a place in Fabio Capello's squad.
Woodgate is expected to be involved for Real in Saturday's clash with Villarreal before sealing his move back to England.

Beckham signs new deal

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has declared David Beckham has signed a new two-year contract extension.

The deal, through to 2009, effectively keeps Beckham in Madrid for the rest of his career. Calderon also revealed that Ronaldo had pledged his future to Real after yesterday's 0-0 draw with Villarreal.
"The deal with Beckham is due to his sporting performance," said Calderon last night. "The marketing subjects are important, but at this Real Madrid we prioritize the sporting aspects and the technical team have given its approval to the renewal of Beckham's contract."
Calderon also revealed he had had a brief meeting with Ronaldo and added: "He told me he wants to stay. He's excited. He's lost weight and wants to continue with us."

Iniesta is not for sale

Barcelona president Joan Laporta insists they won't cash in on midfielder Andres Iniesta.
Atletico Madrid have made an offer for the Spanish youngster, while Laporta confirmed they'd batted away several enquiries over the summer for the playmaker.
"He is one of the key players for the team and also inside the club. There have been many interested clubs get in contact, but for us he is a fundamental player," said Laporta.

Tevez's agent fly in Italy

AC Milan and Roma are being linked with Corinthians star Carlos Tevez.
Brazilian media reports today state that Tevez's agent, Adrian Ruocco, is in Italy for talks with interested clubs. Roma and Milan are believed to have scheduled meetings with Tevez's representative.
Premiership giants Manchester United and Chelsea have also been linked with the Argentina international, who will be in London next week for his nation's friendly against Brazil.
Tevez is keen to remain in Europe after the clash and hopes to have his transfer to a new club in-place so he doesn't have to return to Brazil.

Camoranesi close to exit

Mauro Camoranesi's dismissal against Napoli in last night's Coppa Italia defeat could be his last action as a Juventus player.
The midfielder is in the sights of several Spanish Liga clubs, including Valencia and Sevilla, and visibly struggled against last season's Serie C1 promotion winners Napoli.
Fellow want-away star David Trezeguet didn't play at all, which led to Juve president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli declaring after the defeat: "I do not know what is in the minds of Camoranesi and Trezeguet, but we will not let go: they will remain with Juventus."

Man Utd target Trezeguet

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is considering a shock late move for Juventus striker David Trezeguet.
Agents in Italy have been made aware that Trezeguet is available in the wake of Serie A's match-fixing inquiry and, according to L'Equipe, United and Lyon are among the possible suitors.
Despite claims from Juve officials, the France international is yet to publicly declare his commitment to Juve for the coming season in Italy's Serie B.

Cole pledge his future with Arsenal

Ashley Cole has told Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger he's prepared to play for the club this season.

The People says in a new twist to a transfer tug-of-war between Arsenal and Chelsea that has dragged on all summer, defender Cole revealed he is ready to remain a Gunner for one more year.
The news will send shock-waves through Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea's power-brokers, who have already offered £16.7m, are desperately trying to put together a financial package to get their man.
An Arsenal insider said: "Ashley made the offer because he doesn't see how the move will be completed in time.
"He thought he would be the one to end the transfer saga - for this year at least.
"But now he is worried about staying and being hated by the fans."
Cole also has a book on hold in which he criticises Arsenal for the way he has been treated since the Chelsea tapping-up row.

Sponsor stop Senna move

Villarreal midfielder Marcos Senna has revealed his move to Manchester United fell through because of a sponsor's intervention.

Senna says Sir Alex Ferguson was handed orders from the club's new sponsors AIG to only buy English talent and therefore made their move for Bayern Munich's Owen Hargreaves instead.
"It went very quiet, then Mr Ferguson's assistant Carlos Queiroz told my agent he was sorry but they had orders from above," Senna said in the News of the World.
"Queiroz said the sponsor preferred English players and although they wanted me, they would have to wait.
"But they never called me back."

Beckham hesitate to sign new deal

Premiership clubs are monitoring David Beckham's contract stand-off at Real Madrid.

The People says there has been yet another delay in contract talks - and that is bound to spark fresh interest from English clubs who could sign him on precontract from next January for NOTHING. New club president Ramon Calderon has made it clear he wants Beckham to pledge the rest of his career to the Madrid club.
He said: "We are in agreement to extend his contract. Beckham tells me he is happy in Madrid, that his children are happy, that Brooklyn speaks Spanish."
But the complete overhaul of Real's personnel has meant Beckham's new deal has been put on the backburner and he and his advisers now want to see how the season shapes up before committing to what would almost certainly be the final contract of his career.

Gallas ready for the worst

Chelsea defender William Gallas is prepared to sit out the season to get his move away.

Gallas broke his silence yesterday on the deadlock that has left him sidelined.
He said: "I'm still hopeful of being able to leave. I'm strong in my mind and looking at my future from day to day."
In a firm message to his Chelsea bosses, Gallas reckons leaving him out of the team will not change his mind. He said: "I have already lived through that kind of situation and it does not bother me."
Gallas was prevented by red tape from playing for Marseille for an entire season when he was 20.
He admitted that the experience reduced him to tears at times but he saw it through and is prepared to do the same now.
Gallas, 29, added: "This is not the kind of situation that is going to stop me keeping my morale and form. I'm ready to do what I have to do."

Makelele treated like a slave

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has slammed France coach Raymond Domenech over his call-up of Claude Makelele.

Domenech has insisted Makelele reports for Euro 2008 qualifiers against Georgia and Italy, despite the midfielder announcing his retirement.
"Makelele is not a football player - Makelele is a slave," said Mourinho.
Fifa rules state Makelele faces a domestic ban if he does not turn up for France and Mourinho added: "We have no chance. The rules are there."
Makelele, 33, came back from retirement to help France qualify for the 2006 World Cup where he was on the losing side to Italy in the final.
"He's played the biggest game you can, the World Cup final, and now wants to retire but the coach told us if he is not playing for France, he is not playing for Chelsea," said Mourinho.
"We know the rules. You are a slave, you have no human rights."
Makelele would miss two games apiece for each France game he refuses to play.
Domenech has spoken to both the player and Mourinho and is adamant he wants Makelele in his squad.

Roeder cool on Martins

Newcastle United boss Glenn Roeder has played down an injury suffered on debut for Obafemi Martins.

Martins was stretchered off during his debut at Aston Villa but should be fit by the time the Premiership resumes after the international matches.
"He's got a heavy dead leg," said the Magpies manager.
"That's probably the best it could have been from where I was standing because I was fearing the worst when he went off on a stretcher."
Roeder already has striker Michael Owen out with a long-term cruciate knee injury and has a shortage of strikers at the club.
He added: "I didn't know whether it was a knee injury of significance or not so to suffer a dead leg that will take 10-12 days to heal - I can handle that."

Ferdinand happy with scan

A scan has revealed Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has not suffered a fracture to his toe.

Centre-back Ferdinand was injured in Manchester United's 2-1 win at Watford, but the scan has shown only bruising.
He remains a major doubt for England's games against Andorra and Macedonia, and will have another scan on Monday.
If Ferdinand misses out, Tottenham's Michael Dawson could be given the chance to partner captain John Terry.
A Manchester United spokesman said on Sunday there was bruising to Ferdinand's toe but "no conclusive evidence of a fracture".
That may mean that if Ferdinand is sidelined at all, he will not be out for anywhere near as long as would have been the case with a broken metatarsal.

Gravesen fears time is running out

Real Madrid midfielder Thomas Gravesen fears his move back to the Premiership could fall through.

Gravesen told BBC Sport that Celtic and four English Premiership sides - Newcastle, Bolton, Middlesbrough and his old club Everton - were in for him.
But the 30-year-old added: "It's in my mind there are five days left and I go into the Denmark camp on Sunday.
"I fear I'll be stuck in Madrid not playing and doing the thing I love."
Real have told Gravesen, who joined the Spanish team from Everton in a £2.5 million deal in January 2005, that he can leave for any club willing to pay their £2 million valuation.
"Maybe in five minutes there's a phone call and two clubs have agreed terms and I can be on my way there," Gravesen added.
"We're in contact with clubs and we're negotiating."