David Beckham has been recalled to England's squad for their forthcoming matches against Austria and Croatia.
Beckham had missed England's last four games with a knee injury but the LA Galaxy midfielder is back for next Friday's friendly in Austria and the final Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia at Wembley the following Wednesday.
England coach Steve McClaren flew to Los Angeles last weekend to assess Beckham's fitness and he left convinced the former Manchester United star is ready to handle two matches in six days, despite barely having played for his club in the last 10 weeks.
Beckham should win his 98th and 99th caps for his country in these two matches, but could be left stuck one short of a century if England fail to qualify for Euro 2008.
With speculation mounting that England's likely elimination from the race for Euro 2008 will see McClaren lose his job, the coach has named a 26-man squad for what could be his last two matches in charge.
England captain John Terry is missing as he recovers from knee surgery, while Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has been left out because he is suspended for the qualifier.
Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole returns after an ankle injury and Owen Hargreaves is also back from injury.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Paul Robinson (Tottenham), David James (Portsmouth), Scott Carson (Liverpool, on loan at Aston Villa)
Defenders: Wayne Bridge (Chelsea), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Nicky Shorey (Reading), Wes Brown (Manchester United), Sol Campbell (Portsmouth), Joleon Lescott (Everton), Micah Richards (Manchester City), Phil Neville (Everton)
Midfielders: David Beckham (LA Galaxy), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Gareth Barry (Aston Villa), Owen Hargreaves (Manchester United), Joe Cole (Chelsea), Ashley Young (Aston Villa), Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough), Shaun Wright-Phillips (Chelsea), David Bentley (Blackburn Rovers)
Strikers: Alan Smith (Newcastle), Michael Owen (Newcastle), Wayne Rooney (Manche United), Peter Crouch (Liverpool), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham)
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Friday, November 9, 2007
Calcio Debate: Should Trezeguet Retire From The France National Team?
France Coach Raymond Domenech issued another sensational snub to David Trezeguet by not including him in his squad for the Euro 2008 qualifier with Ukraine. Carlo Garganese asks whether Trezegol should now retire from international football…
It has been well documented in recent weeks about how Juventus striker David Trezeguet has made the best start to a club season in his entire career. The 30-year-old has hit ten goals in 11 appearances for the Bianconeri and is way clear at the top of the Serie A scorers chart.
Indeed as one Italian journalist pointed out a week or so ago, if Trezeguet continues at this rate of scoring, he will end up with nearly 40 league goals by the end of the season.
Not bad going in a league renowned as the toughest and meanest in world football!
Unfortunately France boss Raymond Domenech is not impressed with Trezeguet’s incredible form and after dropping him for last month’s Euro 2008 qualifiers against Lithuania and the Faroe Islands, he repeated the trick by snubbing him for the November 21 trip to Ukraine.
Trezeguet was understandably furious with being rebuffed last month and admitted that he was considering retiring from the French national team.
“I don’t understand it. Domenech says he calls up players because of their performances for their clubs. Well it’s the best start to a season I have ever had,” Trezeguet told L’Equipe.
“I’m seriously considering quitting international football.
“I have been playing for France since 1997 and those 10 years are a long time to me.”
There is no doubt in my mind that Domenech’s motive for not picking Trezeguet is certainly not football-related.
The pair have been at loggerheads ever since Trezeguet criticised the Coach for accusing the Italy Under-21 squad of match-fixing a game back in 2000.
Domenech also recently insulted Trezeguet by saying that there was nothing special about him and there were other French forwards just as good.
To say this about someone who has scored more than 200 club goals during his career and has struck 34 times for France in just 70 appearances, is quite frankly a disgrace.
“Domenech is choosing not to pick me and I think that the way he has treated me is frankly unacceptable,” Trezeguet recently said.
The lack of respect that Domenech has shown for a player who is one of the most prolific forwards in European football history should not be tolerated.
If I was Trezeguet I would be announcing my retirement from international football and I would only consider coming out of my retreat once Domenech had left his post.
Speculation in Italy suggests that Trezeguet is indeed set to announce his retirement in the coming days and I believe that it is really sad that such a great player is being forced away by the downright stubbornness of a man who is disliked by most of the football community.
What are your views on this topic? Should Trezeguet retire from the France national team? What do you think about Domenech not selecting him? We want to know what you think
It has been well documented in recent weeks about how Juventus striker David Trezeguet has made the best start to a club season in his entire career. The 30-year-old has hit ten goals in 11 appearances for the Bianconeri and is way clear at the top of the Serie A scorers chart.
Indeed as one Italian journalist pointed out a week or so ago, if Trezeguet continues at this rate of scoring, he will end up with nearly 40 league goals by the end of the season.
Not bad going in a league renowned as the toughest and meanest in world football!
Unfortunately France boss Raymond Domenech is not impressed with Trezeguet’s incredible form and after dropping him for last month’s Euro 2008 qualifiers against Lithuania and the Faroe Islands, he repeated the trick by snubbing him for the November 21 trip to Ukraine.
Trezeguet was understandably furious with being rebuffed last month and admitted that he was considering retiring from the French national team.
“I don’t understand it. Domenech says he calls up players because of their performances for their clubs. Well it’s the best start to a season I have ever had,” Trezeguet told L’Equipe.
“I’m seriously considering quitting international football.
“I have been playing for France since 1997 and those 10 years are a long time to me.”
There is no doubt in my mind that Domenech’s motive for not picking Trezeguet is certainly not football-related.
The pair have been at loggerheads ever since Trezeguet criticised the Coach for accusing the Italy Under-21 squad of match-fixing a game back in 2000.
Domenech also recently insulted Trezeguet by saying that there was nothing special about him and there were other French forwards just as good.
To say this about someone who has scored more than 200 club goals during his career and has struck 34 times for France in just 70 appearances, is quite frankly a disgrace.
“Domenech is choosing not to pick me and I think that the way he has treated me is frankly unacceptable,” Trezeguet recently said.
The lack of respect that Domenech has shown for a player who is one of the most prolific forwards in European football history should not be tolerated.
If I was Trezeguet I would be announcing my retirement from international football and I would only consider coming out of my retreat once Domenech had left his post.
Speculation in Italy suggests that Trezeguet is indeed set to announce his retirement in the coming days and I believe that it is really sad that such a great player is being forced away by the downright stubbornness of a man who is disliked by most of the football community.
What are your views on this topic? Should Trezeguet retire from the France national team? What do you think about Domenech not selecting him? We want to know what you think
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Bosnia-Herzegovina name final lineup
Bosnia-Herzegovina have named a slimmed-down 16-man squad for their final Group C game in Turkey as they look to hold on to fourth place.
Late additions
Fuad Muzurović intends to add two more players – one of them a goalkeeper – to his selection before they meet up in Istanbul on 19 November to prepare for the game two days later. "We want to finish this qualifying campaign with a good game, but also to start preparations for the next qualifying competition," said Muzurović. Bosnia-Herzegovina are fourth in Group C, one point ahead of fifth-placed Hungary.
Bosnia-Herzegovina squad
Goalkeepers: Adnan Gušo (CS Pandurii Lignitul Târgu Jiu).
Defenders: Džemal Berberović (FC Kuban Krasnodar), Branimir Bajić (TuS Koblenz), Safet Nadarević (NK Zagreb), Ivan Radeljić (NK Slaven Koprivnica), Samir Merzić (FK Teplice).
Midfielders: Zvjezdan Misimović (1. FC Nürnberg), Elvir Rahimić (PFC CSKA Moskva), Darko Maletić (FK Partizan), Branislav Krunić (FC Moskva), Dario Damjanović (HNK Hajduk Split), Senijad Ibričić (NK Zagreb).
Forwards: Sejad Salihović (TSG Hoffenheim), Vedad Ibišević (TSG Hoffenheim), Edin Džeko (VfL Wolsfburg), Zlatan Muslimović (Atalanta BC).
Portugal recall Pepe for last tests
Pepe will get a second chance to make his Portugal debut after being named in the squad for the make-or-break UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifiers against Armenia and Finland.
Three-month ban
The Real Madrid CF defender was called up for the last qualifiers and although he was later ruled out with a thigh injury, coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has kept faith in him. The Brazilian coach, who is serving a three-month touchline ban following incidents at the end of the home qualifier against Serbia in September, cannot call on Jorge Andrade, Petit and the injured Deco, and has also left out João Moutinho and Paulo Ferreira, with Manuel Fernandes and Jorge Ribeiro taking their places. Second in Group A, Portugal face Armenia in Leiria on 17 November and fourth-placed Finland in Porto four days later. "These two matches are decisive and as we predicted in the beginning of the campaign, we are in a good position to qualify," said Scolari. "We need to do our job at home now."
Portugal squad
Goalkeepers: Ricardo (Real Betis Balompié), Quim (SL Benfica).
Defenders: Bruno Alves (FC Porto), Fernando Meira (VfB Stuttgart), Jorge Ribeiro (Boavista FC), Bosingwa (FC Porto), Pepe (Real Madrid CF), Luis Miguel (Valencia CF), Marco Caneira (Valencia CF), Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea FC).
Midfielders: Manuel Fernandes (Valencia CF), Miguel Veloso (Sporting Clube de Portugal), Maniche (Club Atlético de Madrid), Raul Meireles (FC Porto).
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United FC), Nani (Manchester United FC), Simão (Club Atlético de Madrid), Ricardo Quaresma (FC Porto), Ariza Makukula (CS Marítimo), Hugo Almeida (SV Werder Bremen), Nuno Gomes (SL Benfica).
Three-month ban
The Real Madrid CF defender was called up for the last qualifiers and although he was later ruled out with a thigh injury, coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has kept faith in him. The Brazilian coach, who is serving a three-month touchline ban following incidents at the end of the home qualifier against Serbia in September, cannot call on Jorge Andrade, Petit and the injured Deco, and has also left out João Moutinho and Paulo Ferreira, with Manuel Fernandes and Jorge Ribeiro taking their places. Second in Group A, Portugal face Armenia in Leiria on 17 November and fourth-placed Finland in Porto four days later. "These two matches are decisive and as we predicted in the beginning of the campaign, we are in a good position to qualify," said Scolari. "We need to do our job at home now."
Portugal squad
Goalkeepers: Ricardo (Real Betis Balompié), Quim (SL Benfica).
Defenders: Bruno Alves (FC Porto), Fernando Meira (VfB Stuttgart), Jorge Ribeiro (Boavista FC), Bosingwa (FC Porto), Pepe (Real Madrid CF), Luis Miguel (Valencia CF), Marco Caneira (Valencia CF), Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea FC).
Midfielders: Manuel Fernandes (Valencia CF), Miguel Veloso (Sporting Clube de Portugal), Maniche (Club Atlético de Madrid), Raul Meireles (FC Porto).
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United FC), Nani (Manchester United FC), Simão (Club Atlético de Madrid), Ricardo Quaresma (FC Porto), Ariza Makukula (CS Marítimo), Hugo Almeida (SV Werder Bremen), Nuno Gomes (SL Benfica).
Litmanen returns for Finnish finale
Jari Litmanen has recovered from an achilles tendon problem to take his place in the Finland squad for their crucial final UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifiers.
'Still recovering'
Coach Roy Hodgson was delighted to welcome the 36-year-old Malmö FF forward back after he made an early recover from injury. "It is great to have him back in the squad," said the Englishman. "He is still recovering, but there is a chance he might be fit to play in time." Midfielders Teemu Tainio and Markus Heikkinen and striker Mikael Forssell all return after missing the qualifier against Belgium through injury. Finland are fourth in Group A but wins in both of their remaining games could still see them qualify for the finals. They play Azerbaijan at home on 17 November and face Portugal in Porto four days later.
Finland squad
Goalkeepers: Jussi Jääskeläinen (Bolton Wanderers FC), Antti Niemi (Fulham FC), Niki Mäenpää (FC Den Bosch).
Defenders: Sami Hyypiä (Liverpool FC), Hannu Tihinen (FC Zürich), Petri Pasanen (Werder Bremen), Toni Kallio (BSC Young Boys), Toni Kuivasto (Djurgårdens IF), Ari Nyman (FC Thun), Veli Lampi (FC Zürich).
Midfielders: Teemu Tainio (Tottenham Hotspur FC), Mika Väyrynen (PSV Eindhoven), Joonas Kolkka (NAC Breda), Markus Heikkinen (SK Rapid Wien), Jari Ilola (IF Elfsborg), Mika Nurmela (HJK Helsinki), Daniel Sjölund (Djurgårdens IF), Roman Eremenko (Udinese Calcio).
Forwards: Jari Litmanen (Malmö FF), Alexei Eremenko Jr (FC Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast), Mikael Forssell (Birmingham City FC), Jonatan Johansson (Malmö FF), Shefki Kuqi (Fulham FC).
'Still recovering'
Coach Roy Hodgson was delighted to welcome the 36-year-old Malmö FF forward back after he made an early recover from injury. "It is great to have him back in the squad," said the Englishman. "He is still recovering, but there is a chance he might be fit to play in time." Midfielders Teemu Tainio and Markus Heikkinen and striker Mikael Forssell all return after missing the qualifier against Belgium through injury. Finland are fourth in Group A but wins in both of their remaining games could still see them qualify for the finals. They play Azerbaijan at home on 17 November and face Portugal in Porto four days later.
Finland squad
Goalkeepers: Jussi Jääskeläinen (Bolton Wanderers FC), Antti Niemi (Fulham FC), Niki Mäenpää (FC Den Bosch).
Defenders: Sami Hyypiä (Liverpool FC), Hannu Tihinen (FC Zürich), Petri Pasanen (Werder Bremen), Toni Kallio (BSC Young Boys), Toni Kuivasto (Djurgårdens IF), Ari Nyman (FC Thun), Veli Lampi (FC Zürich).
Midfielders: Teemu Tainio (Tottenham Hotspur FC), Mika Väyrynen (PSV Eindhoven), Joonas Kolkka (NAC Breda), Markus Heikkinen (SK Rapid Wien), Jari Ilola (IF Elfsborg), Mika Nurmela (HJK Helsinki), Daniel Sjölund (Djurgårdens IF), Roman Eremenko (Udinese Calcio).
Forwards: Jari Litmanen (Malmö FF), Alexei Eremenko Jr (FC Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast), Mikael Forssell (Birmingham City FC), Jonatan Johansson (Malmö FF), Shefki Kuqi (Fulham FC).
Colts look to fire France to finals
Samir Nasri rejoins fellow youngsters Hatem Ben Arfa and Karim Benzema in the France squad for their all-important final UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against Ukraine.
Final permutations
The 20-year-old playmaker has been out for a month after being hospitalised with a virus that had the symptoms of meningitis but has been recalled to the 24-man party for the game in Kiev, along with Jérémy Toulalan and Nicolas Anelka, who are recovering from injuries. France host Morocco in a friendly game on Friday 16 November before facing Ukraine five days later. France currently top Group B and will qualify for the finals without kicking a ball if Italy triumph in Scotland on 17 November. If that does not happen, a point in Kiev will send them to Austria and Switzerland.
France squad
Goalkeepers: Sébastien Frey (ACF Fiorentina), Mickaël Landreau (Paris Saint-Germain FC), Ulrich Ramé (FC Girondins de Bordeaux).
Defenders: Eric Abidal (FC Barcelona), François Clerc (Olympique Lyonnais), Patrice Evra (Manchester United FC), William Gallas (Arsenal FC), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal FC), Sébastien Squillaci (Olympique Lyonnais), Lilian Thuram (FC Barcelona).
Midfielders: Alou Diarra (FC Girondins de Bordeaux), Lassana Diarra (Arsenal FC), Mathieu Flamini (Arsenal FC), Claude Makelele (Chelsea FC), Samir Nasri (Olympique de Marseille), Jérôme Rothen (Paris Saint-Germain FC), Jérémy Toulalan (Olympique Lyonnais).
Forwards: Nicolas Anelka (Bolton Wanderers FC), Hatem Ben Arfa (Olympique Lyonnais), Karim Benzema (Olympique Lyonnais), Sidney Govou (Olympique Lyonnais), Thierry Henry (FC Barcelona), Florent Malouda (Chelsea FC), Franck Ribéry (FC Bayern München).
Final permutations
The 20-year-old playmaker has been out for a month after being hospitalised with a virus that had the symptoms of meningitis but has been recalled to the 24-man party for the game in Kiev, along with Jérémy Toulalan and Nicolas Anelka, who are recovering from injuries. France host Morocco in a friendly game on Friday 16 November before facing Ukraine five days later. France currently top Group B and will qualify for the finals without kicking a ball if Italy triumph in Scotland on 17 November. If that does not happen, a point in Kiev will send them to Austria and Switzerland.
France squad
Goalkeepers: Sébastien Frey (ACF Fiorentina), Mickaël Landreau (Paris Saint-Germain FC), Ulrich Ramé (FC Girondins de Bordeaux).
Defenders: Eric Abidal (FC Barcelona), François Clerc (Olympique Lyonnais), Patrice Evra (Manchester United FC), William Gallas (Arsenal FC), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal FC), Sébastien Squillaci (Olympique Lyonnais), Lilian Thuram (FC Barcelona).
Midfielders: Alou Diarra (FC Girondins de Bordeaux), Lassana Diarra (Arsenal FC), Mathieu Flamini (Arsenal FC), Claude Makelele (Chelsea FC), Samir Nasri (Olympique de Marseille), Jérôme Rothen (Paris Saint-Germain FC), Jérémy Toulalan (Olympique Lyonnais).
Forwards: Nicolas Anelka (Bolton Wanderers FC), Hatem Ben Arfa (Olympique Lyonnais), Karim Benzema (Olympique Lyonnais), Sidney Govou (Olympique Lyonnais), Thierry Henry (FC Barcelona), Florent Malouda (Chelsea FC), Franck Ribéry (FC Bayern München).
Scotland line up for Italy decider
Alex McLeish has named a 25-man squad for next week's qualifier against Italy at Hampden Park where a win would send Scotland to UEFA EURO 2008™.
Victory vital
Darren Fletcher returns after suspension while strikers Kenny Miller and Garry O'Connor have both been named in the squad although the pair are nursing hamstring injuries. Scott Brown has also recovered from the leg knock which saw SL Benfica midfielder Augustin Binya sent off in Celtic FC's 1-0 UEFA Champions League win over SL Benfica on Tuesday. A victory for Scotland in their final Group B fixture would guarantee a place in next year's finals, but anything less than three points would make the Azzurri favourites to qualify with a game still to play against the Faroe Islands.
Scotland squad
Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon (Sunderland AFC), David Marshall (Norwich City FC), Allan McGregor (Rangers FC).
Defenders: Graham Alexander (Burnley FC), Gary Caldwell (Celtic FC), Christian Dailly (West Ham United FC), Alan Hutton (Rangers FC), Jay McEveley (Derby County FC), Stephen McManus (Celtic FC), Gary Naysmith (Sheffield United FC), David Weir (Rangers FC).
Midfield: Scott Brown (Celtic FC), Barry Ferguson (Rangers FC), Paul Hartley (Celtic FC), Lee McCulloch (Rangers FC), Stephen Pearson (Derby County FC), Barry Robson (Dundee United FC), Gary Teale (Derby County FC).
Forwards: Craig Beattie (West Bromwich Albion FC), Kris Boyd (Rangers FC), James McFadden (Everton FC), Shaun Maloney (Aston Villa FC), Kenny Miller (Derby County FC), Garry O'Connor (Birmingham City FC).
Victory vital
Darren Fletcher returns after suspension while strikers Kenny Miller and Garry O'Connor have both been named in the squad although the pair are nursing hamstring injuries. Scott Brown has also recovered from the leg knock which saw SL Benfica midfielder Augustin Binya sent off in Celtic FC's 1-0 UEFA Champions League win over SL Benfica on Tuesday. A victory for Scotland in their final Group B fixture would guarantee a place in next year's finals, but anything less than three points would make the Azzurri favourites to qualify with a game still to play against the Faroe Islands.
Scotland squad
Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon (Sunderland AFC), David Marshall (Norwich City FC), Allan McGregor (Rangers FC).
Defenders: Graham Alexander (Burnley FC), Gary Caldwell (Celtic FC), Christian Dailly (West Ham United FC), Alan Hutton (Rangers FC), Jay McEveley (Derby County FC), Stephen McManus (Celtic FC), Gary Naysmith (Sheffield United FC), David Weir (Rangers FC).
Midfield: Scott Brown (Celtic FC), Barry Ferguson (Rangers FC), Paul Hartley (Celtic FC), Lee McCulloch (Rangers FC), Stephen Pearson (Derby County FC), Barry Robson (Dundee United FC), Gary Teale (Derby County FC).
Forwards: Craig Beattie (West Bromwich Albion FC), Kris Boyd (Rangers FC), James McFadden (Everton FC), Shaun Maloney (Aston Villa FC), Kenny Miller (Derby County FC), Garry O'Connor (Birmingham City FC).
Čech and Jankulovski to miss Czech ties
Injured goalkeeper Petr Čech and left-back Marek Jankulovski miss out as the Czech Republic conclude their qualifying campaign with games against Slovakia and Cyprus.
Czech newcomers
Already sure of a place at next summer's finals, Karel Brückner's side play Slovakia at home on 17 November before concluding their Group D campaign in Nicosia four days later. Jaromír Blažek is likely to cover for Čech, who will miss his first competitive internationals in two years, while 32-year-old custodian Daniel Zítka from RSC Anderlecht receives a first call-up, along with third-choice stopper Michal Daněk. Left-back Michal Kadlec also gets a first call to replace Jankulovski.
Czech Republic squad
Goalkeepers: Jaromír Blažek (1. FC Nürnberg), Daniel Zítka (RSC Anderlecht), Michal Daněk (FC Viktoria Plzeň).
Defenders: Zdeněk Grygera (Juventus), Zdeněk Pospěch (AC Sparta Praha), Radoslav Kováč (FC Spartak Moskva), David Rozehnal (Newcastle United FC), Tomáš Ujfaluši (ACF Fiorentina), Michal Kadlec (AC Sparta Praha).
Midfielders: Tomáš Galásek (1. FC Nürnberg), Marek Matějovský (FK Mladá Boleslav), Jaroslav Plašil (CA Osasuna), Jan Polák (RSC Anderlecht), Tomáš Rosický (Arsenal FC), Libor Sionko (FC København), Daniel Pudil (SK Slavia Praha).
Forwards: Jan Koller (AS Monaco FC), Milan Baroš (Olympique Lyonnais), Marek Kulič (AC Sparta Praha), Martin Fenin (FK Teplice).
Czech newcomers
Already sure of a place at next summer's finals, Karel Brückner's side play Slovakia at home on 17 November before concluding their Group D campaign in Nicosia four days later. Jaromír Blažek is likely to cover for Čech, who will miss his first competitive internationals in two years, while 32-year-old custodian Daniel Zítka from RSC Anderlecht receives a first call-up, along with third-choice stopper Michal Daněk. Left-back Michal Kadlec also gets a first call to replace Jankulovski.
Czech Republic squad
Goalkeepers: Jaromír Blažek (1. FC Nürnberg), Daniel Zítka (RSC Anderlecht), Michal Daněk (FC Viktoria Plzeň).
Defenders: Zdeněk Grygera (Juventus), Zdeněk Pospěch (AC Sparta Praha), Radoslav Kováč (FC Spartak Moskva), David Rozehnal (Newcastle United FC), Tomáš Ujfaluši (ACF Fiorentina), Michal Kadlec (AC Sparta Praha).
Midfielders: Tomáš Galásek (1. FC Nürnberg), Marek Matějovský (FK Mladá Boleslav), Jaroslav Plašil (CA Osasuna), Jan Polák (RSC Anderlecht), Tomáš Rosický (Arsenal FC), Libor Sionko (FC København), Daniel Pudil (SK Slavia Praha).
Forwards: Jan Koller (AS Monaco FC), Milan Baroš (Olympique Lyonnais), Marek Kulič (AC Sparta Praha), Martin Fenin (FK Teplice).
EURO2008: SCOZIA-ITALIA, I 25 CONVOCATI DI MCLEISH
Sono 25 i giocatori convocati da Alex McLeish per Scozia-Italia, autentico spareggio-qualificazione per gli Europei del 2008 in programma all'Hampden Park di Glasgow il prossimo 17 novembre.
Questo l'elenco completo. Portieri: Craig Gordon (Sunderland), David Marshall (Norwich), Allan McGregor (Rangers); difensori: Graham Alexander (Burnley), Gary Caldwell (Celtic), Christian Dailly (West Ham), Alan Hutton (Rangers), Jay McEveley (Derby County), Stephen McManus (Celtic), Gary Naysmith (Sheffield United), David Weir (Rangers); centrocampisti: Scott Brown (Celtic), Barry Ferguson (Rangers), Darren Fletcher (Manchester United), Paul Hartley (Celtic), Lee McCulloch (Rangers), Stephen Pearson (Derby County), Barry Robson (Dundee United), Gary Teale (Derby County); attaccanti: Craig Beattie (West Bromwich), Kris Boyd (Rangers), James McFadden (Everton), Shaun Maloney (Aston Villa), Kenny Miller (Derby County), Garry O'Connor (Birmingham City).
Questo l'elenco completo. Portieri: Craig Gordon (Sunderland), David Marshall (Norwich), Allan McGregor (Rangers); difensori: Graham Alexander (Burnley), Gary Caldwell (Celtic), Christian Dailly (West Ham), Alan Hutton (Rangers), Jay McEveley (Derby County), Stephen McManus (Celtic), Gary Naysmith (Sheffield United), David Weir (Rangers); centrocampisti: Scott Brown (Celtic), Barry Ferguson (Rangers), Darren Fletcher (Manchester United), Paul Hartley (Celtic), Lee McCulloch (Rangers), Stephen Pearson (Derby County), Barry Robson (Dundee United), Gary Teale (Derby County); attaccanti: Craig Beattie (West Bromwich), Kris Boyd (Rangers), James McFadden (Everton), Shaun Maloney (Aston Villa), Kenny Miller (Derby County), Garry O'Connor (Birmingham City).
McClaren won't quit England job
Steve McClaren won't quit as England manager should they fail to qualify for Euro2008.
He has been made aware of overtures from Premier League clubs ready to offer him a way back into club football later this season.
But McClaren is confident he is the best man to lead England through the qualifying campaign for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
He has been made aware of overtures from Premier League clubs ready to offer him a way back into club football later this season.
But McClaren is confident he is the best man to lead England through the qualifying campaign for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Monday, October 29, 2007
UK Premier League
MC = Match Centre Latest Results
28 Oct16:00PremLiverpool 1 - 1 ArsenalMC
28 Oct15:00PremTottenham 1 - 2 BlackburnMC
28 Oct15:00SPLAberdeen 1 - 1 FalkirkMC
28 Oct15:00L1Doncaster 4 - 2 L Orient
28 Oct14:00PremDerby 0 - 2 EvertonMC
28 Oct14:00SPLDundee Ud 2 - 1 RangersMC
28 Oct13:30PremBolton 1 - 1 Ast VillaMC
Premier League Table
Monday 29th October 2007 | 15:58
P GD PTS
1 Arsenal 10 15 26
2 Manchester United 11 15 26
3 Manchester City 11 2 22
4 Chelsea 11 8 21
5 Blackburn Rovers 10 6 21
6 Liverpool 10 11 20
7 Portsmouth 11 7 19
8 Newcastle United 10 4 17
9 Everton 11 2 16
10 Aston Villa 10 1 15
11 West Ham United 10 3 14
12 Reading 11 -9 13
13 Birmingham City 11 -4 11
14 Fulham 11 -4 9
15 Sunderland 11 -8 9
16 Wigan Athletic 11 -7 8
17 Middlesbrough 11 -11 8
18 Tottenham Hotspur 11 -5 7
19 Bolton Wanderers 11 -7 6
20 Derby County 11 -19 6
28 Oct16:00PremLiverpool 1 - 1 ArsenalMC
28 Oct15:00PremTottenham 1 - 2 BlackburnMC
28 Oct15:00SPLAberdeen 1 - 1 FalkirkMC
28 Oct15:00L1Doncaster 4 - 2 L Orient
28 Oct14:00PremDerby 0 - 2 EvertonMC
28 Oct14:00SPLDundee Ud 2 - 1 RangersMC
28 Oct13:30PremBolton 1 - 1 Ast VillaMC
Premier League Table
Monday 29th October 2007 | 15:58
P GD PTS
1 Arsenal 10 15 26
2 Manchester United 11 15 26
3 Manchester City 11 2 22
4 Chelsea 11 8 21
5 Blackburn Rovers 10 6 21
6 Liverpool 10 11 20
7 Portsmouth 11 7 19
8 Newcastle United 10 4 17
9 Everton 11 2 16
10 Aston Villa 10 1 15
11 West Ham United 10 3 14
12 Reading 11 -9 13
13 Birmingham City 11 -4 11
14 Fulham 11 -4 9
15 Sunderland 11 -8 9
16 Wigan Athletic 11 -7 8
17 Middlesbrough 11 -11 8
18 Tottenham Hotspur 11 -5 7
19 Bolton Wanderers 11 -7 6
20 Derby County 11 -19 6
Friday, October 26, 2007
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Hiddink lifts lid on Chelsea owner Abramovich
Russia coach Guus Hiddink has given an insight into Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich's approach to football.
With the assistance of Abramovich, the Russian FA was able to appoint Hiddink for their Euro2008 qualifying campaign and the two men have grown close.
"Since people continually associate me with Chelsea's owner Roman Abramovich, I thought it would be a good idea to explain a little bit about our relationship," Hiddink told The Times. "I have met him five times: four times in London and once at the PSV training complex. As for all those stories about me being a candidate for the Chelsea job, we never discussed it.
"I know that you can never say never in football, but that option would not have made sense. We have a project to reshape Russian football by 2014, with the 2010 World Cup as the first phase. Given Abramovich's long-term commitment and vision, it seems very unlikely that he would try to disrupt that process."
Hiddink appears to regard Abramovich as an ideal employer and was surprised to receive a sympathetic text message from him after Russia's 3-0 defeat by England last month.
"What struck me about Abramovich was his supportive approach," Hiddink said. "He is not the type of man to demand things of you, but he is interested to learn how you would do things. The more you can explain to him, the more appreciative he is. And despite his vast wealth, he doesn't try to abuse his position or status.
"He is a very relaxed character but is highly committed to sport in general and football in particular. He is not especially interested in the technicalities of how things are implemented. He is chiefly concerned with how to transform resources into results. With Chelsea he is looking to achieve that in a shorter time frame, with Russia his approach is longer term."
With the assistance of Abramovich, the Russian FA was able to appoint Hiddink for their Euro2008 qualifying campaign and the two men have grown close.
"Since people continually associate me with Chelsea's owner Roman Abramovich, I thought it would be a good idea to explain a little bit about our relationship," Hiddink told The Times. "I have met him five times: four times in London and once at the PSV training complex. As for all those stories about me being a candidate for the Chelsea job, we never discussed it.
"I know that you can never say never in football, but that option would not have made sense. We have a project to reshape Russian football by 2014, with the 2010 World Cup as the first phase. Given Abramovich's long-term commitment and vision, it seems very unlikely that he would try to disrupt that process."
Hiddink appears to regard Abramovich as an ideal employer and was surprised to receive a sympathetic text message from him after Russia's 3-0 defeat by England last month.
"What struck me about Abramovich was his supportive approach," Hiddink said. "He is not the type of man to demand things of you, but he is interested to learn how you would do things. The more you can explain to him, the more appreciative he is. And despite his vast wealth, he doesn't try to abuse his position or status.
"He is a very relaxed character but is highly committed to sport in general and football in particular. He is not especially interested in the technicalities of how things are implemented. He is chiefly concerned with how to transform resources into results. With Chelsea he is looking to achieve that in a shorter time frame, with Russia his approach is longer term."
FOOTBALL. TREZEGUET TO DECIDE ON NATIONAL TEAM WITHIN 2 MONTHS
"I don't understand him.
Domenech said he would call the players following their performance in their clubs, and I scored seven goals in six matches. I can't do any better", a crestfallen David Trezeguet said. Yesterday, the French national team coach left him out of the list of players for the Euro2008 qualification matches against Far Oer and Lithuania (13 and 17 Oct). "When one is a first-choice player in Juventus, AC Milan or Barcelona, he should be called every single time - he said in an interview with 'L'Equipe' - I'm no longer a youngster, I ought to know whether I'll be fielded or not. We must make things clear, I need the coach to tell me directly whether he wants me in the team or not". Trezeguet - whose exclusion Domenech justified because "it's a matter of competition, I have choices to make" - is now considering to quit the national team. "I'll decide over the next two months - he said - there's a limit to everything. Even if I might be called for match against Ukraine on 21 November, I might not accept".
Domenech said he would call the players following their performance in their clubs, and I scored seven goals in six matches. I can't do any better", a crestfallen David Trezeguet said. Yesterday, the French national team coach left him out of the list of players for the Euro2008 qualification matches against Far Oer and Lithuania (13 and 17 Oct). "When one is a first-choice player in Juventus, AC Milan or Barcelona, he should be called every single time - he said in an interview with 'L'Equipe' - I'm no longer a youngster, I ought to know whether I'll be fielded or not. We must make things clear, I need the coach to tell me directly whether he wants me in the team or not". Trezeguet - whose exclusion Domenech justified because "it's a matter of competition, I have choices to make" - is now considering to quit the national team. "I'll decide over the next two months - he said - there's a limit to everything. Even if I might be called for match against Ukraine on 21 November, I might not accept".
Uefa rejects Mikoliunas appeal
Lithuania midfielder Saulius Mikoliunas has failed in his bid to overturn a two-match ban from Uefa for diving.
Uefa's appeals body announced on Thursday it was backing the original sanction handed down by its disciplinary body last month.
Mikoliunas was given the ban after television replays showed him diving to win a penalty during his country's 3-1 defeat in a Euro 2008 qualifying match away to Scotland.
The disciplinary body's landmark decision was the first to be taken under regulations dealing with incidents of cheating that are missed by match officials.
The new rules recommend an automatic ban of two matches for players who act "with the obvious intent to cause any match official to make an incorrect decision".
Although video evidence had previously been used against players who committed serious fouls without being spotted by match officials, Mikoliunas was the first player to be sanctioned post-match for diving.
He is set to miss Lithuania's next two Euro 2008 qualifiers -- away to France on October 17 and at home to Ukraine a month later.
Lithuania are fifth in Group B, 11 points behind leaders Scotland.
Uefa's appeals body announced on Thursday it was backing the original sanction handed down by its disciplinary body last month.
Mikoliunas was given the ban after television replays showed him diving to win a penalty during his country's 3-1 defeat in a Euro 2008 qualifying match away to Scotland.
The disciplinary body's landmark decision was the first to be taken under regulations dealing with incidents of cheating that are missed by match officials.
The new rules recommend an automatic ban of two matches for players who act "with the obvious intent to cause any match official to make an incorrect decision".
Although video evidence had previously been used against players who committed serious fouls without being spotted by match officials, Mikoliunas was the first player to be sanctioned post-match for diving.
He is set to miss Lithuania's next two Euro 2008 qualifiers -- away to France on October 17 and at home to Ukraine a month later.
Lithuania are fifth in Group B, 11 points behind leaders Scotland.
Gallas in; Vieira,Trezeguet out of Euro ties
Arsenal captain William Gallas has been called up by France coach Raymond Domenech for the World Cup finalist's must-win Euro 2008 qualifiers against the Faroe Islands and Lithuania later this month.
Defender Gallas has been sidelined with a groin injury since August 19 and missed France's last three games, including their 1-0 loss to Scotland which leaves them facing a worrying campaign to reach the finals.
But Patrick Vieira and David Trezeguet have both been left out of the 23-man squad named Thursday to travel to Torshavn on October 13 and to host Lithuania in Nantes four days later.
Inter Milan midfielder Vieira has not played since picking up a thigh injury during France's defeat to Scotland last month, while leading Serie A goalscorer Trezeguet, who failed to impress against the Scots, lost out to Louis Saha.
Domenech said that Vieira had been reluctant to play because of his injury after playing France's last two games against his club's wishes, while Trezeguet was left out because he was spoilt for choice in attack.
"We took the decision together (with Vieira) .. which was wisest. He has to continue to prepare with his club, we agreed on that," said Domenech.
"As for David Trezeguet, it's about competition, there was a choice to make. The list isn't closed we'll have another match in the Ukraine (November 21). I'm not closing the door on anyone."
Meanwhile, in-form Paris Saint Germain midfielder Jerome Rothen gets another chance to impress Domenech after missing the trip to Slovakia through injury.
Rothen, who is expected to cover for Florent Malouda on the left wing, has not played for France since a friendly against Germany in November 2005.
Scotland are top of Group B ahead of World Cup winners Italy with France third and needing to win all their last three games to reach next year's finals.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Mickael Landreau (Paris SG), Sebastien Frey (Fiorentina/ITA), Ulrich Rame (Bordeaux)
Defenders: Eric Abidal (FC Barcelona/ESP), Julien Escude (Sevilla/ESP), Patrice Evra (Manchester United/ENG), William Gallas (Arsenal/ENG), Philippe Mexes (AS Roma/ITA), Bakary Sagna (Arsenal/ENG), Lilian Thuram (FC Barcelona/ESP)
Midfielders: Abou Diaby (Arsenal), Lassana Diarra (Chelsea/ENG), Mathieu Flamini (Arsenal), Claude Makelele (Chelsea/ENG), Jerome Rothen (Paris SG), Jeremy Toulalan (Lyon)
Strikers: Nicolas Anelka (Bolton/ENG), Karim Benzema (Lyon), Sidney Govou (Lyon), Thierry Henry (FC Barcelona/ESP), Florent Malouda (Chelsea/ENG), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich/GER), Louis Saha (Manchester United/ENG)
Defender Gallas has been sidelined with a groin injury since August 19 and missed France's last three games, including their 1-0 loss to Scotland which leaves them facing a worrying campaign to reach the finals.
But Patrick Vieira and David Trezeguet have both been left out of the 23-man squad named Thursday to travel to Torshavn on October 13 and to host Lithuania in Nantes four days later.
Inter Milan midfielder Vieira has not played since picking up a thigh injury during France's defeat to Scotland last month, while leading Serie A goalscorer Trezeguet, who failed to impress against the Scots, lost out to Louis Saha.
Domenech said that Vieira had been reluctant to play because of his injury after playing France's last two games against his club's wishes, while Trezeguet was left out because he was spoilt for choice in attack.
"We took the decision together (with Vieira) .. which was wisest. He has to continue to prepare with his club, we agreed on that," said Domenech.
"As for David Trezeguet, it's about competition, there was a choice to make. The list isn't closed we'll have another match in the Ukraine (November 21). I'm not closing the door on anyone."
Meanwhile, in-form Paris Saint Germain midfielder Jerome Rothen gets another chance to impress Domenech after missing the trip to Slovakia through injury.
Rothen, who is expected to cover for Florent Malouda on the left wing, has not played for France since a friendly against Germany in November 2005.
Scotland are top of Group B ahead of World Cup winners Italy with France third and needing to win all their last three games to reach next year's finals.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Mickael Landreau (Paris SG), Sebastien Frey (Fiorentina/ITA), Ulrich Rame (Bordeaux)
Defenders: Eric Abidal (FC Barcelona/ESP), Julien Escude (Sevilla/ESP), Patrice Evra (Manchester United/ENG), William Gallas (Arsenal/ENG), Philippe Mexes (AS Roma/ITA), Bakary Sagna (Arsenal/ENG), Lilian Thuram (FC Barcelona/ESP)
Midfielders: Abou Diaby (Arsenal), Lassana Diarra (Chelsea/ENG), Mathieu Flamini (Arsenal), Claude Makelele (Chelsea/ENG), Jerome Rothen (Paris SG), Jeremy Toulalan (Lyon)
Strikers: Nicolas Anelka (Bolton/ENG), Karim Benzema (Lyon), Sidney Govou (Lyon), Thierry Henry (FC Barcelona/ESP), Florent Malouda (Chelsea/ENG), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich/GER), Louis Saha (Manchester United/ENG)
Thursday, October 4, 2007
No Oper for Wembley trip
Estonia will be without star striker Andres Oper through injury as they head for Wembley to take on England in a UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier on 13 October.
Absent forwards
Oper has been ruled out for two months with a hamstring problem and has not been named in coach Viggo Jensen's 21-man squad for the match, while the absence of injured FC Torpedo Moskva forward Vladimir Voskoboinikov and the retirement of Indrek Zelinski have further weakened the Dane's attacking options. Kristen Viikmäe has been called up to fill one of those attacking slots while Oliver Konsa, Sergei Terehhov and goalkeeper Mart Poom have also returned to the fold. Following their trip to Wembley, Estonia meet Montenegro in a friendly game in Tallinn on 17 October.
Estonia squad
Goalkeepers: Mart Poom (Watford FC), Pavel Londak (FK Bodø/Glimt), Mihkel Aksalu (FC Flora Tallinn).
Defenders: Teet Allas (FC Flora Tallinn), Andrei Stepanov (FK Khimki), Raio Piiroja (Fredrikstad FK), Urmas Rooba (FC TPS Turku), Enar Jääger (Aalesunds FK), Dmitri Kruglov (FC Torpedo Moskva), Alo Bärengrub (FC Flora Tallinn).
Midfielders: Martin Reim (FC Flora Tallinn), Joel Lindpere (Tromsø IL), Taavi Rähn (FK Ekranas), Aleksandr Dmitrijev (FC Levadia Tallinn), Ragnar Klavan (Heracles Almelo), Sergei Terehhov (FC TVMK Tallinn), Aivar Anniste (FC TVMK Tallinn).
Forwards: Tarmo Kink (FC Levadia Tallinn), Oliver Konsa (FC TVMK Tallinn), Kristen Viikmäe (FC Flora Tallinn), Kaimar Saag (FC Levadia Tallinn).
Absent forwards
Oper has been ruled out for two months with a hamstring problem and has not been named in coach Viggo Jensen's 21-man squad for the match, while the absence of injured FC Torpedo Moskva forward Vladimir Voskoboinikov and the retirement of Indrek Zelinski have further weakened the Dane's attacking options. Kristen Viikmäe has been called up to fill one of those attacking slots while Oliver Konsa, Sergei Terehhov and goalkeeper Mart Poom have also returned to the fold. Following their trip to Wembley, Estonia meet Montenegro in a friendly game in Tallinn on 17 October.
Estonia squad
Goalkeepers: Mart Poom (Watford FC), Pavel Londak (FK Bodø/Glimt), Mihkel Aksalu (FC Flora Tallinn).
Defenders: Teet Allas (FC Flora Tallinn), Andrei Stepanov (FK Khimki), Raio Piiroja (Fredrikstad FK), Urmas Rooba (FC TPS Turku), Enar Jääger (Aalesunds FK), Dmitri Kruglov (FC Torpedo Moskva), Alo Bärengrub (FC Flora Tallinn).
Midfielders: Martin Reim (FC Flora Tallinn), Joel Lindpere (Tromsø IL), Taavi Rähn (FK Ekranas), Aleksandr Dmitrijev (FC Levadia Tallinn), Ragnar Klavan (Heracles Almelo), Sergei Terehhov (FC TVMK Tallinn), Aivar Anniste (FC TVMK Tallinn).
Forwards: Tarmo Kink (FC Levadia Tallinn), Oliver Konsa (FC TVMK Tallinn), Kristen Viikmäe (FC Flora Tallinn), Kaimar Saag (FC Levadia Tallinn).
Stars gather for Vienna celebration
The UEFA European Championship trophy was one of the star guests as delegates from all four Austrian host cities attended Vienna's Day of Sports on Saturday.
'Simply unique'
Austria's largest open-air sports festival, held in the city's Heldenplatz, attracted more than 300,000 visitors, many of whom gathered to see the trophy that will be awarded to the winners at UEFA EURO 2008™. Euro 2008 SA chief operating officer Martin Kallen, who took the cup to Vienna, was impressed with the festival, saying: "This is simply unique. This sets a high standard."
Tickets raffled
Austrian Football Federation president Friedrich Stickler was also present and praised "the Austrians' positive outlook towards football and their own international team". Along with Austrian tournament director Christian Schmölzer and his Swiss counterpart Christian Mutschler, Stickler helped raffle off three sets of two tickets for UEFA EURO 2008™ matches in Austria.
Honoured guest
The event received the official seal of approval as Austrian Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer held a reception on stage for the prominent football figures in attendance, including Stickler, Kallen, Austria coach Josef Hickersberger and UEFA EURO 2008™ ambassador Andreas Herzog. He presented the guests with a special cake to commemorate the upcoming finals.
'Simply unique'
Austria's largest open-air sports festival, held in the city's Heldenplatz, attracted more than 300,000 visitors, many of whom gathered to see the trophy that will be awarded to the winners at UEFA EURO 2008™. Euro 2008 SA chief operating officer Martin Kallen, who took the cup to Vienna, was impressed with the festival, saying: "This is simply unique. This sets a high standard."
Tickets raffled
Austrian Football Federation president Friedrich Stickler was also present and praised "the Austrians' positive outlook towards football and their own international team". Along with Austrian tournament director Christian Schmölzer and his Swiss counterpart Christian Mutschler, Stickler helped raffle off three sets of two tickets for UEFA EURO 2008™ matches in Austria.
Honoured guest
The event received the official seal of approval as Austrian Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer held a reception on stage for the prominent football figures in attendance, including Stickler, Kallen, Austria coach Josef Hickersberger and UEFA EURO 2008™ ambassador Andreas Herzog. He presented the guests with a special cake to commemorate the upcoming finals.
Rushfeldt comes to Norway's rescue
Sigurd Rushfeldt has ended a long absence from the Norway national team to replace John Carew in the squad to take on Bosnia-Herzegovina on 17 October.
Veteran returns
Second in the section, but level on points with third placed Turkey having played a game more, Åge Hareide's men need a win in Sarajevo to maintain the pressure on their Group C rivals, and the 34-year-old Rushfeldt, who won the last of his 35 caps for Norway in October 2005, has been called in to provide attacking threat in the absence of the injured Carew. "He is an experienced forward with an eye for goal," said Hareide. "He may have an important part to play." Midfielder Alexander Ødegaard also gets a call after some impressive displays for Viking FK.
Norway squad
Goalkeepers: Rune Almenning Jarstein (Odd Grenland), Thomas Myhre (Viking FK), Håkon Opdal (SK Brann).
Defenders: Erik Hagen (FC Zenit St. Petersburg), Brede Hangeland (FC København), Frode Kippe (Lillestrøm SK), John Arne Riise (Liverpool FC), Jarl-André Storbæk (Vålerenga IF), Vidar Riseth (Rosenborg BK).
Midfielders: Martin Andresen (SK Brann), John Anders Bjørkøy (Fredrikstad FK), Morten Gamst Pedersen (Blackburn Rovers FC), Bjørn Riise (Lillestrøm SK), Jan Gunnar Solli (SK Brann), Lars Iver Strand (Tromsø IL), Fredrik Strømstad (IK Start), Petter Vaagan Moen (SK Brann), Alexander Ødegaard (Viking FK).
Forwards: Daniel Braaten (Bolton Wanderers FC), Christian Grindheim (Vålerenga IF), Thorstein Helstad (SK Brann), Steffen Iversen (Rosenborg BK), Sigurd Rushfeldt (Tromsø IL).
Veteran returns
Second in the section, but level on points with third placed Turkey having played a game more, Åge Hareide's men need a win in Sarajevo to maintain the pressure on their Group C rivals, and the 34-year-old Rushfeldt, who won the last of his 35 caps for Norway in October 2005, has been called in to provide attacking threat in the absence of the injured Carew. "He is an experienced forward with an eye for goal," said Hareide. "He may have an important part to play." Midfielder Alexander Ødegaard also gets a call after some impressive displays for Viking FK.
Norway squad
Goalkeepers: Rune Almenning Jarstein (Odd Grenland), Thomas Myhre (Viking FK), Håkon Opdal (SK Brann).
Defenders: Erik Hagen (FC Zenit St. Petersburg), Brede Hangeland (FC København), Frode Kippe (Lillestrøm SK), John Arne Riise (Liverpool FC), Jarl-André Storbæk (Vålerenga IF), Vidar Riseth (Rosenborg BK).
Midfielders: Martin Andresen (SK Brann), John Anders Bjørkøy (Fredrikstad FK), Morten Gamst Pedersen (Blackburn Rovers FC), Bjørn Riise (Lillestrøm SK), Jan Gunnar Solli (SK Brann), Lars Iver Strand (Tromsø IL), Fredrik Strømstad (IK Start), Petter Vaagan Moen (SK Brann), Alexander Ødegaard (Viking FK).
Forwards: Daniel Braaten (Bolton Wanderers FC), Christian Grindheim (Vålerenga IF), Thorstein Helstad (SK Brann), Steffen Iversen (Rosenborg BK), Sigurd Rushfeldt (Tromsø IL).
Belarus try out fringe options
Bernd Stange has left a number of established names out of his Belarus squad for the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against Luxembourg on 13 October and the friendly against Israel.
Experimental selection
Stange once again ommitted the experienced Sergei Shtanyuk, Aleksandr Kulchiy and Vitali Bulyga while there is also no place for Vladimir Gaev, Yan Tigorev, Aleksandr Yurevich, Denis Kovba, Gennadi Bliznyuk or Artyom Cheladyinskiy. The German coach said: "I've said before many times that we are trying to check all the candidates right now to have at least two quality players for each position. That leads to experiments." Sixth in Group G, Belarus play Luxembourg in Gomel before meeting Israel in a friendly in Ramat Gan four days later.
Belarus squad
Goalkeepers: Vasili Khomutovski (FC Tom Tomsk), Yuri Zhevnov (FC Moskva), Anton Amelchenko (FC Moskva).
Defenders: Artyom Radkov (FC BATE Borisov), Sergei Omelyanchuk (FC Rostov), Pavel Plaskonny (FC Shakhtyor Soligorsk), Yegor Filipenko (FC BATE Borisov), Kiryl Pavlyuchek (FC Dinamo Minsk), Dmitri Molosh (FC Dinamo Brest).
Midfielders: Vladimir Korythko (FC Chornomorets Odesa), Timofei Kalachev (FC Rostov), Aleksandr Hleb (Arsenal FC), Maksim Romashchenko (FC Torpedo Moskva), Nikolai Kashevski (FC Metalurh Zaporizhya), Aleksei Skverniuk (FC Krylya Sovetov Samara), Igor Stasevich (FC BATE Borisov).
Forwards: Sergei Kornilenko (FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk), Roman Vasilyuk (FC Gomel), Vitali Kutuzov (Pisa Calcio), Vitali Rodionov (FC BATE Borisov), Dmitri Mozolevsky (FC Dinamo Brest).
Experimental selection
Stange once again ommitted the experienced Sergei Shtanyuk, Aleksandr Kulchiy and Vitali Bulyga while there is also no place for Vladimir Gaev, Yan Tigorev, Aleksandr Yurevich, Denis Kovba, Gennadi Bliznyuk or Artyom Cheladyinskiy. The German coach said: "I've said before many times that we are trying to check all the candidates right now to have at least two quality players for each position. That leads to experiments." Sixth in Group G, Belarus play Luxembourg in Gomel before meeting Israel in a friendly in Ramat Gan four days later.
Belarus squad
Goalkeepers: Vasili Khomutovski (FC Tom Tomsk), Yuri Zhevnov (FC Moskva), Anton Amelchenko (FC Moskva).
Defenders: Artyom Radkov (FC BATE Borisov), Sergei Omelyanchuk (FC Rostov), Pavel Plaskonny (FC Shakhtyor Soligorsk), Yegor Filipenko (FC BATE Borisov), Kiryl Pavlyuchek (FC Dinamo Minsk), Dmitri Molosh (FC Dinamo Brest).
Midfielders: Vladimir Korythko (FC Chornomorets Odesa), Timofei Kalachev (FC Rostov), Aleksandr Hleb (Arsenal FC), Maksim Romashchenko (FC Torpedo Moskva), Nikolai Kashevski (FC Metalurh Zaporizhya), Aleksei Skverniuk (FC Krylya Sovetov Samara), Igor Stasevich (FC BATE Borisov).
Forwards: Sergei Kornilenko (FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk), Roman Vasilyuk (FC Gomel), Vitali Kutuzov (Pisa Calcio), Vitali Rodionov (FC BATE Borisov), Dmitri Mozolevsky (FC Dinamo Brest).
Get closer to Austria and Switzerland
With less than 250 days to go until the finals of UEFA EURO 2008™ begin in Austria and Switzerland, uefa.com's guide to the eight host cities has been launched.
Exhaustive guide
A number of events on Sunday marked the fact that there were only 250 days left until the first match kicks off in Basle on 7 June 2008. Getting into the spirit, today sees the launch of uefa.com's exhaustive guide to Austria and Switzerland, which includes plenty of fascinating facts about the two host countries and lots of useful information for fans who are eager to experience UEFA EURO 2008™ at close quarters. With guides to what to do in all eight host cities, on matchdays and on days off, it promises to be an essential resource for those wishing to get to the heart of the tournament.
Exhaustive guide
A number of events on Sunday marked the fact that there were only 250 days left until the first match kicks off in Basle on 7 June 2008. Getting into the spirit, today sees the launch of uefa.com's exhaustive guide to Austria and Switzerland, which includes plenty of fascinating facts about the two host countries and lots of useful information for fans who are eager to experience UEFA EURO 2008™ at close quarters. With guides to what to do in all eight host cities, on matchdays and on days off, it promises to be an essential resource for those wishing to get to the heart of the tournament.
EURO draw details confirmed
Media details have been released for the draw for the UEFA EURO 2008™ final tournament at the Culture and Convention Centre in Lucerne, Switzerland on Sunday 2 December (12.00CET). Media accreditation requests can be made from today.
Draw procedure
Under the draw procedure, host associations Switzerland and Austria are automatically qualified and will be allocated into positions A1 and B1 respectively. The other 14 teams will be split into four pots. Pot 1 will comprise the reigning European champions Greece, if they qualify, as well as the nation with the highest coefficient. The other teams will then be placed in the three remaining pots, based on the coefficient obtained in the qualifying competitions for the 2006 FIFA World Cup and UEFA EURO 2008™.
Filling first positions
The draw will start with Pot 1 in order to fill the first position in each group. A first ball will be drawn from Pot 1 and the drawn team placed into the first position in Group C. Thereafter, the second ball from Pot 1 will be drawn and the respective team will be placed into the first position of Group D.
Draw continues
The draw will then continue with Pot 4 and end with Pot 2. A ball will be drawn from Pot 4 and placed into Group A. In order to determine the position of the team within the group and the fixtures order, a ball will be drawn from Pot a (either A2, A3 or A4). Moving to Group B, another team will be drawn from Pot 4. Once again, to determine the position of the team within the group, a ball will be drawn from Pot b (either B2, B3 or B4). The same procedure will be repeated for Group C and D (in consecutive order) until all balls from Pot 4 have been drawn and positioned in each group. The same procedures will be followed for Pot 3 and Pot 2.
Press conference
The draw will be followed by a photo shoot on stage with the coaches of the qualified teams and UEFA President Michel Platini, and by a press conference for each of the four groups.
Media accreditation
Media representatives wishing to apply for accreditation for the UEFA EURO 2008™ final round draw must apply directly to UEFA and can do so as of today via the online accreditation service on www.uefa.com. All media representatives and/or their companies need to be registered in FAME before they can apply for accreditation. Individual media representatives can register at https://tinyurl.com/2ltrb2.
CFOU policy
Non-rights-holding medium and large-scale media, broadcasters and radio stations are invited to contact Euro 2008 SA’s media accreditation department for details about the CFOU policy (person responsible for entering and managing all accreditation requests for a company with more than five media event staff).
Accreditation deadline
The deadline for accreditations is Friday 23 November, thereby allowing media representatives from countries whose national team only qualifies in November to apply. Confirmation/rejection emails will be sent out on 26 November.
In case of cancellation
Applications received after the deadline may not be considered. In case of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances, please immediately advise UEFA Media Accreditation Services by writing to fame_accreditations@uefa.ch. No-shows will be taken into consideration for future UEFA events.
EXCO meeting
The next meeting of the UEFA Executive Committee will also take place in Lucerne on Friday 30 November and Saturday 1 December. More details on the agenda and the accreditation procedure for this meeting will be announced in due course.
Draw procedure
Under the draw procedure, host associations Switzerland and Austria are automatically qualified and will be allocated into positions A1 and B1 respectively. The other 14 teams will be split into four pots. Pot 1 will comprise the reigning European champions Greece, if they qualify, as well as the nation with the highest coefficient. The other teams will then be placed in the three remaining pots, based on the coefficient obtained in the qualifying competitions for the 2006 FIFA World Cup and UEFA EURO 2008™.
Filling first positions
The draw will start with Pot 1 in order to fill the first position in each group. A first ball will be drawn from Pot 1 and the drawn team placed into the first position in Group C. Thereafter, the second ball from Pot 1 will be drawn and the respective team will be placed into the first position of Group D.
Draw continues
The draw will then continue with Pot 4 and end with Pot 2. A ball will be drawn from Pot 4 and placed into Group A. In order to determine the position of the team within the group and the fixtures order, a ball will be drawn from Pot a (either A2, A3 or A4). Moving to Group B, another team will be drawn from Pot 4. Once again, to determine the position of the team within the group, a ball will be drawn from Pot b (either B2, B3 or B4). The same procedure will be repeated for Group C and D (in consecutive order) until all balls from Pot 4 have been drawn and positioned in each group. The same procedures will be followed for Pot 3 and Pot 2.
Press conference
The draw will be followed by a photo shoot on stage with the coaches of the qualified teams and UEFA President Michel Platini, and by a press conference for each of the four groups.
Media accreditation
Media representatives wishing to apply for accreditation for the UEFA EURO 2008™ final round draw must apply directly to UEFA and can do so as of today via the online accreditation service on www.uefa.com. All media representatives and/or their companies need to be registered in FAME before they can apply for accreditation. Individual media representatives can register at https://tinyurl.com/2ltrb2.
CFOU policy
Non-rights-holding medium and large-scale media, broadcasters and radio stations are invited to contact Euro 2008 SA’s media accreditation department for details about the CFOU policy (person responsible for entering and managing all accreditation requests for a company with more than five media event staff).
Accreditation deadline
The deadline for accreditations is Friday 23 November, thereby allowing media representatives from countries whose national team only qualifies in November to apply. Confirmation/rejection emails will be sent out on 26 November.
In case of cancellation
Applications received after the deadline may not be considered. In case of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances, please immediately advise UEFA Media Accreditation Services by writing to fame_accreditations@uefa.ch. No-shows will be taken into consideration for future UEFA events.
EXCO meeting
The next meeting of the UEFA Executive Committee will also take place in Lucerne on Friday 30 November and Saturday 1 December. More details on the agenda and the accreditation procedure for this meeting will be announced in due course.
Luck's out for Luxembourg
Yet to pick up a point in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying, coach Guy Hellers is hoping for a change of fortune as Luxembourg face Belarus on 13 October.
EURO washout
Luxembourg have had some encouraging results in friendlies in the last 12 months, not least a 2-1 win against Gambia, but when it comes to competitive games the EURO campaign has been a washout. Hellers' side have lost all nine of their games, scoring just once and conceding 20 times, with three of those goals coming in the recent 3-0 defeat against Bulgaria.
No match
An inexperienced side, with an average aged of 26 and a half, found themselves no match for Bulgaria. Hellers said: "Bulgaria were superior in running as well as in their fighting spirit. We had big problems with the exceptional player Dimitar Berbatov who scored twice. I am disappointed with the performance of some of my players, whose way of playing I did not like at all."
Friendly game
On Wednesday, Luxembourg will host Belgian top-tier team KFC Germinal Beerschot Antwerpen in a friendly in Koerich hoping to restore some composure ahead of the upcoming qualifier in Gomel. However, the feeling is that - for all of Hellers' efforts - not much can be done to raise the standard of the national team's performances until more local players move abroad.
Simple fact
Paul Philipp, president of the Luxembourg Football Federation and a former professional player and national team coach said: "The spine of the national team can only be strengthened if we have four or five players who play for foreign clubs." At the moment Hellers has only two professionals at his disposal: Jeff Strasser from FC Metz and Mario Mutsch from FC Aarau.
'More training'
While Luxembourg have no illusions as to their place in European football, the nation - which includes 30,000 licensed players - perhaps should be getting better results. Philipp is certainly eager to grab something from their remaining three qualifiers, but added: "The current situation can only be changed with more training."
Limited incentive
The question is where that training will come from. In an ideal world, players would be training with professional clubs every day, but the majority of local players are semi-professional. Turning professional means moving abroad, but with players able to earn good wages from their clubs to add to their everyday earnings, there is arguably not enough incentive for them to head away.
EURO washout
Luxembourg have had some encouraging results in friendlies in the last 12 months, not least a 2-1 win against Gambia, but when it comes to competitive games the EURO campaign has been a washout. Hellers' side have lost all nine of their games, scoring just once and conceding 20 times, with three of those goals coming in the recent 3-0 defeat against Bulgaria.
No match
An inexperienced side, with an average aged of 26 and a half, found themselves no match for Bulgaria. Hellers said: "Bulgaria were superior in running as well as in their fighting spirit. We had big problems with the exceptional player Dimitar Berbatov who scored twice. I am disappointed with the performance of some of my players, whose way of playing I did not like at all."
Friendly game
On Wednesday, Luxembourg will host Belgian top-tier team KFC Germinal Beerschot Antwerpen in a friendly in Koerich hoping to restore some composure ahead of the upcoming qualifier in Gomel. However, the feeling is that - for all of Hellers' efforts - not much can be done to raise the standard of the national team's performances until more local players move abroad.
Simple fact
Paul Philipp, president of the Luxembourg Football Federation and a former professional player and national team coach said: "The spine of the national team can only be strengthened if we have four or five players who play for foreign clubs." At the moment Hellers has only two professionals at his disposal: Jeff Strasser from FC Metz and Mario Mutsch from FC Aarau.
'More training'
While Luxembourg have no illusions as to their place in European football, the nation - which includes 30,000 licensed players - perhaps should be getting better results. Philipp is certainly eager to grab something from their remaining three qualifiers, but added: "The current situation can only be changed with more training."
Limited incentive
The question is where that training will come from. In an ideal world, players would be training with professional clubs every day, but the majority of local players are semi-professional. Turning professional means moving abroad, but with players able to earn good wages from their clubs to add to their everyday earnings, there is arguably not enough incentive for them to head away.
Wales gamble on Bellamy fitness
Wales have problems in attack after naming their squad for the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifiers against Cyprus and San Marino.
Bellamy included
Captain Craig Bellamy, who inspired a 5-2 win in Slovakia last month, is included by manager John Toshack even though he has missed West Ham United FC's last three games with a groin strain. The manager's other options – Freddie Eastwood, Robert Earnshaw and Jermaine Easter – are all out of favour at their clubs. Wigan Athletic FC midfielder Jason Koumas is included after missing the Slovakia trip through injury. Wales play Cyprus in Nicosia, on 13 October and face San Marino in Serravalle four days later.
Wales squad
Goalkeepers: Danny Coyne (Tranmere Rovers FC), Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC), Lewis Price (Derby County FC).
Defenders: Danny Gabbidon, James Collins (West Ham United FC), Steve Evans (Wrexham FC), Lewin Nyatanga (Derby County FC), Craig Morgan (Peterborough FC), Sam Ricketts (Hull City AFC), Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur FC), Neal Eardley (Oldham Athletic FC).
Midfielders: Simon Davies (Fulham FC), Joe Ledley (Cardiff City FC), Jason Koumas (Wigan Athletic FC), Andrew Crofts (Gillingham FC), Mark Jones (Wrexham FC), Carl Fletcher (Crystal Palace FC), Carl Robinson (Toronto FC), David Vaughan (Real Sociedad de Fútbol).
Forwards: Craig Bellamy (West Ham United FC), Robert Earnshaw (Derby County FC), Freddy Eastwood (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC), Jermaine Easter (Wycombe Wanderers FC).
Bellamy included
Captain Craig Bellamy, who inspired a 5-2 win in Slovakia last month, is included by manager John Toshack even though he has missed West Ham United FC's last three games with a groin strain. The manager's other options – Freddie Eastwood, Robert Earnshaw and Jermaine Easter – are all out of favour at their clubs. Wigan Athletic FC midfielder Jason Koumas is included after missing the Slovakia trip through injury. Wales play Cyprus in Nicosia, on 13 October and face San Marino in Serravalle four days later.
Wales squad
Goalkeepers: Danny Coyne (Tranmere Rovers FC), Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC), Lewis Price (Derby County FC).
Defenders: Danny Gabbidon, James Collins (West Ham United FC), Steve Evans (Wrexham FC), Lewin Nyatanga (Derby County FC), Craig Morgan (Peterborough FC), Sam Ricketts (Hull City AFC), Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur FC), Neal Eardley (Oldham Athletic FC).
Midfielders: Simon Davies (Fulham FC), Joe Ledley (Cardiff City FC), Jason Koumas (Wigan Athletic FC), Andrew Crofts (Gillingham FC), Mark Jones (Wrexham FC), Carl Fletcher (Crystal Palace FC), Carl Robinson (Toronto FC), David Vaughan (Real Sociedad de Fútbol).
Forwards: Craig Bellamy (West Ham United FC), Robert Earnshaw (Derby County FC), Freddy Eastwood (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC), Jermaine Easter (Wycombe Wanderers FC).
Monday, October 1, 2007
Bilić keeps faith with Croatia regulars
Croatia coach Slaven Bilić has made no surprise inclusions in his squad for the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against Israel in Zagreb on 13 October.
Kovač travels
Captain Niko Kovač is included in the 23-man selection despite expecting to be out of action for four to six weeks with a muscle injury in his left leg. "Kovač will remain on the list as he will come and give support to his team-mates," said Bilić. "It's well known what he means to us, but our goal remains the same - it's victory. Israel don't lose too many games. They lost against England because they played pretty badly. This would be their crucial match and they have to win if they want to stay in the running." Croatia lead Group E with 23 points from nine games with Israel six points adrift in fourth spot.
Croatia squad
Goalkeepers: Stipe Pletikosa (FC Spartak Moskva), Vedran Runje (RC Lens), Mario Galinović (Panathinaikos FC).
Defenders: Dario Šimić (AC Milan), Robert Kovač (BV Borussia Dortmund), Josip Šimunić (Hertha BSC Berlin), Vedran Ćorluka (Manchester City FC), Dino Drpić (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Dario Kenežević (AS Livorno Calcio).
Midfielders: Jerko Leko (AS Monaco FC), Marko Babić (Real Betis Balompié), Darijo Srna (FC Shakhtar Donetsk), Luka Modrić (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Jurica Vranješ (Werder Bremen), Danijel Pranjić (SC Heerenveen), Niko Kranjčar (Portsmouth FC), Ognjen Vukojević (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Niko Kovač (FC Salzburg).
Forwards: Mladen Petrić (BV Borussia Dortmund), Ivica Olić (Hamburger SV), Boško Balaban (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Eduardo da Silva (Arsenal FC), Ivan Rakitić (FC Schalke 04).
Kovač travels
Captain Niko Kovač is included in the 23-man selection despite expecting to be out of action for four to six weeks with a muscle injury in his left leg. "Kovač will remain on the list as he will come and give support to his team-mates," said Bilić. "It's well known what he means to us, but our goal remains the same - it's victory. Israel don't lose too many games. They lost against England because they played pretty badly. This would be their crucial match and they have to win if they want to stay in the running." Croatia lead Group E with 23 points from nine games with Israel six points adrift in fourth spot.
Croatia squad
Goalkeepers: Stipe Pletikosa (FC Spartak Moskva), Vedran Runje (RC Lens), Mario Galinović (Panathinaikos FC).
Defenders: Dario Šimić (AC Milan), Robert Kovač (BV Borussia Dortmund), Josip Šimunić (Hertha BSC Berlin), Vedran Ćorluka (Manchester City FC), Dino Drpić (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Dario Kenežević (AS Livorno Calcio).
Midfielders: Jerko Leko (AS Monaco FC), Marko Babić (Real Betis Balompié), Darijo Srna (FC Shakhtar Donetsk), Luka Modrić (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Jurica Vranješ (Werder Bremen), Danijel Pranjić (SC Heerenveen), Niko Kranjčar (Portsmouth FC), Ognjen Vukojević (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Niko Kovač (FC Salzburg).
Forwards: Mladen Petrić (BV Borussia Dortmund), Ivica Olić (Hamburger SV), Boško Balaban (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Eduardo da Silva (Arsenal FC), Ivan Rakitić (FC Schalke 04).
Bilić keeps faith with Croatia regulars
Croatia coach Slaven Bilić has made no surprise inclusions in his squad for the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against Israel in Zagreb on 13 October.
Kovač travels
Captain Niko Kovač is included in the 23-man selection despite expecting to be out of action for four to six weeks with a muscle injury in his left leg. "Kovač will remain on the list as he will come and give support to his team-mates," said Bilić. "It's well known what he means to us, but our goal remains the same - it's victory. Israel don't lose too many games. They lost against England because they played pretty badly. This would be their crucial match and they have to win if they want to stay in the running." Croatia lead Group E with 23 points from nine games with Israel six points adrift in fourth spot.
Croatia squad
Goalkeepers: Stipe Pletikosa (FC Spartak Moskva), Vedran Runje (RC Lens), Mario Galinović (Panathinaikos FC).
Defenders: Dario Šimić (AC Milan), Robert Kovač (BV Borussia Dortmund), Josip Šimunić (Hertha BSC Berlin), Vedran Ćorluka (Manchester City FC), Dino Drpić (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Dario Kenežević (AS Livorno Calcio).
Midfielders: Jerko Leko (AS Monaco FC), Marko Babić (Real Betis Balompié), Darijo Srna (FC Shakhtar Donetsk), Luka Modrić (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Jurica Vranješ (Werder Bremen), Danijel Pranjić (SC Heerenveen), Niko Kranjčar (Portsmouth FC), Ognjen Vukojević (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Niko Kovač (FC Salzburg).
Forwards: Mladen Petrić (BV Borussia Dortmund), Ivica Olić (Hamburger SV), Boško Balaban (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Eduardo da Silva (Arsenal FC), Ivan Rakitić (FC Schalke 04).
Kovač travels
Captain Niko Kovač is included in the 23-man selection despite expecting to be out of action for four to six weeks with a muscle injury in his left leg. "Kovač will remain on the list as he will come and give support to his team-mates," said Bilić. "It's well known what he means to us, but our goal remains the same - it's victory. Israel don't lose too many games. They lost against England because they played pretty badly. This would be their crucial match and they have to win if they want to stay in the running." Croatia lead Group E with 23 points from nine games with Israel six points adrift in fourth spot.
Croatia squad
Goalkeepers: Stipe Pletikosa (FC Spartak Moskva), Vedran Runje (RC Lens), Mario Galinović (Panathinaikos FC).
Defenders: Dario Šimić (AC Milan), Robert Kovač (BV Borussia Dortmund), Josip Šimunić (Hertha BSC Berlin), Vedran Ćorluka (Manchester City FC), Dino Drpić (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Dario Kenežević (AS Livorno Calcio).
Midfielders: Jerko Leko (AS Monaco FC), Marko Babić (Real Betis Balompié), Darijo Srna (FC Shakhtar Donetsk), Luka Modrić (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Jurica Vranješ (Werder Bremen), Danijel Pranjić (SC Heerenveen), Niko Kranjčar (Portsmouth FC), Ognjen Vukojević (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Niko Kovač (FC Salzburg).
Forwards: Mladen Petrić (BV Borussia Dortmund), Ivica Olić (Hamburger SV), Boško Balaban (NK Dinamo Zagreb), Eduardo da Silva (Arsenal FC), Ivan Rakitić (FC Schalke 04).
Forssell to sit out key Finland qualifier
Mikael Forssell will miss Finland's UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against Belgium in Brussels on 13 October because he needs a hernia operation.
Short absence
The 26-year-old striker had only just returned to fitness at English Premier League club Birmingham City FC after a long lay-off with a serious knee injury when he was struck by this latest blow. "The only good thing is that the recovery time will not be long," Forssell said. "I will be out for two or three weeks." He will sit out the vital Group A game against Belgium as Roy Hodgson's side attempt to hold on to second place ahead of Portugal and Serbia, both of whom have a match in hand. Finland have 19 points from their eleven qualifiers, two fewer than leaders Poland.
Short absence
The 26-year-old striker had only just returned to fitness at English Premier League club Birmingham City FC after a long lay-off with a serious knee injury when he was struck by this latest blow. "The only good thing is that the recovery time will not be long," Forssell said. "I will be out for two or three weeks." He will sit out the vital Group A game against Belgium as Roy Hodgson's side attempt to hold on to second place ahead of Portugal and Serbia, both of whom have a match in hand. Finland have 19 points from their eleven qualifiers, two fewer than leaders Poland.
EUROSCHOOLS to further football education
The EUROSCHOOLS 2008 project has been launched, with schools across Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein poised to learn about all 53 UEFA member nations.
Footballing education
The project, which is receiving €500,000 in funding from UEFA, will prompt schools across the three countries to adopt one UEFA nation each, to learn about it during the academic year and also to represent it in a series of special football tournaments, played with an accent on Fair Play. EUROSCHOOLS 2008 will reach its climax with an international final in Innsbruck in June 2008. Launch events have taken place in Zuchwil, Trogen and Zurich with further ones due in Geneva on 2 October, Innsbruck on 10 October, Salzburg on 15 October, Vienna on 18 October and Klagenfurt on 22 October. For more information, visit www.euroschools2008.org.
Footballing education
The project, which is receiving €500,000 in funding from UEFA, will prompt schools across the three countries to adopt one UEFA nation each, to learn about it during the academic year and also to represent it in a series of special football tournaments, played with an accent on Fair Play. EUROSCHOOLS 2008 will reach its climax with an international final in Innsbruck in June 2008. Launch events have taken place in Zuchwil, Trogen and Zurich with further ones due in Geneva on 2 October, Innsbruck on 10 October, Salzburg on 15 October, Vienna on 18 October and Klagenfurt on 22 October. For more information, visit www.euroschools2008.org.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
All clear for December EURO draw
The procedure for the UEFA EURO 2008™ final tournament draw in Lucerne, Switzerland, on 2 December was approved by the UEFA Executive Committee at its meeting in Istanbul today.
Holders Greece
Consequently, hosts Switzerland and Austria will be placed in groups A1 and B1 respectively. The other 14 nations will be split into four pots. Pot 1 will comprise the reigning European champions Greece if they qualify, as well as the team with the highest coefficient. The other countries will then be placed in the three remaining pots based on the coefficient obtained in the qualifying competition for the 2006 FIFA World Cup and for this EURO. The event will take place at the Konzert und Kongresszentrum in Lucerne, starting at 12.00CET.
Durban draw
The UEFA Executive Committee also decided that the draw for the European qualifying competition for the 2010 World Cup – to take place in Durban, South Africa, on 25 November – would be based on FIFA national team rankings. In accordance with the decision at its meeting in Heerenveen, Netherlands, in June, the format for the European qualifiers will be eight groups of six teams, and one group of five. The nine group winners will qualify directly, with the best eight runners-up featuring in home and away play-off matches for the remaining four places.
Holders Greece
Consequently, hosts Switzerland and Austria will be placed in groups A1 and B1 respectively. The other 14 nations will be split into four pots. Pot 1 will comprise the reigning European champions Greece if they qualify, as well as the team with the highest coefficient. The other countries will then be placed in the three remaining pots based on the coefficient obtained in the qualifying competition for the 2006 FIFA World Cup and for this EURO. The event will take place at the Konzert und Kongresszentrum in Lucerne, starting at 12.00CET.
Durban draw
The UEFA Executive Committee also decided that the draw for the European qualifying competition for the 2010 World Cup – to take place in Durban, South Africa, on 25 November – would be based on FIFA national team rankings. In accordance with the decision at its meeting in Heerenveen, Netherlands, in June, the format for the European qualifiers will be eight groups of six teams, and one group of five. The nine group winners will qualify directly, with the best eight runners-up featuring in home and away play-off matches for the remaining four places.
Hierro happy with supporting role
Former Real Madrid CF captain and international defender Fernando Hierro has been unveiled as the Spanish Football Federation's new sporting director.
No competition
The 39-year-old, speaking at his presentation, insisted that he would not be stepping on national team coach Luis Aragonés's toes in his role, saying: "I've been here for a month and my relationship with Luis Aragonés is friendly – very direct. It's not about being a boss but about different areas and mine is the sporting one, and his the technical one. I'm at his disposal for whatever he needs. My No1 candidate for the coaching post is Luis Aragonés and I haven't spoken to anyone else. The important thing now is qualifying for the [UEFA] European Championship and our main worry is the match in Denmark [on 13 October]. I will travel with the team so they understand it's the biggest game this year."
Superb career
Hierro becomes the first person to occupy the post, having retired from playing in 2005 after a campaign at Bolton Wanderers FC in England. He had started his first-class career at Real Valladolid CF in 1987 before joining Madrid two years later and going on to spend 14 seasons with the capital club. At the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Hierro won five Primera División titles, the UEFA Champions League in 1998, 2000 and 2002, the UEFA Super Cup, two European/South American Cups, one Copa del Rey and three Spanish Super Cups. Hierro, fourth in Madrid's all-time appearances list having played 439 matches, also collected 89 caps, scoring 29 goals, for his country before quitting international football after the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Recently he had been working for a sports marketing company.
No competition
The 39-year-old, speaking at his presentation, insisted that he would not be stepping on national team coach Luis Aragonés's toes in his role, saying: "I've been here for a month and my relationship with Luis Aragonés is friendly – very direct. It's not about being a boss but about different areas and mine is the sporting one, and his the technical one. I'm at his disposal for whatever he needs. My No1 candidate for the coaching post is Luis Aragonés and I haven't spoken to anyone else. The important thing now is qualifying for the [UEFA] European Championship and our main worry is the match in Denmark [on 13 October]. I will travel with the team so they understand it's the biggest game this year."
Superb career
Hierro becomes the first person to occupy the post, having retired from playing in 2005 after a campaign at Bolton Wanderers FC in England. He had started his first-class career at Real Valladolid CF in 1987 before joining Madrid two years later and going on to spend 14 seasons with the capital club. At the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Hierro won five Primera División titles, the UEFA Champions League in 1998, 2000 and 2002, the UEFA Super Cup, two European/South American Cups, one Copa del Rey and three Spanish Super Cups. Hierro, fourth in Madrid's all-time appearances list having played 439 matches, also collected 89 caps, scoring 29 goals, for his country before quitting international football after the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Recently he had been working for a sports marketing company.
Bad news for Bystrov and Russia
Russia midfielder Vladimir Bystrov may be out of action for the rest of 2007 after damaging knee ligaments in FC Spartak Moskva's 4-3 defeat against FC Lokomotiv Moskva on Sunday.
Surgery question
The 23-year-old, who signed a new four-year contract with the UEFA Cup hopefuls last week, was discovered to have damaged cruciate ligaments in his left knee during the derby and will be out of action for at least a month. Bystrov has travelled to Germany for further tests, and if experts decide he needs an operation will not play again for another six months. Either way, he will not be available for Russia's UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifiers against England and Israel, the second leg of Spartak's UEFA Cup first-round tie against BK Häcken - which the Russian side lead 5-0 - and some vital games in the Premier-Liga.
Surgery question
The 23-year-old, who signed a new four-year contract with the UEFA Cup hopefuls last week, was discovered to have damaged cruciate ligaments in his left knee during the derby and will be out of action for at least a month. Bystrov has travelled to Germany for further tests, and if experts decide he needs an operation will not play again for another six months. Either way, he will not be available for Russia's UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifiers against England and Israel, the second leg of Spartak's UEFA Cup first-round tie against BK Häcken - which the Russian side lead 5-0 - and some vital games in the Premier-Liga.
New faces for Bosnia-Herzegovina
in his 20-man squad for Bosnia-Herzegovina's UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifiers against Greece and Norway.
Fresh faces
Defenders Semir Merzić and Ante Aračić will get the chance to impress along with forward Sejad Salihović as Bosnia-Herzegovina face Greece in Athens on 13 October before taking on Norway in Sarajevo four days later. The coach reckons successive defeats by Hungary and Moldova have ended his side's Group C chances, saying: "Our aim now is to play the best we can and to get some decent results."
Bosnia-Herzegovina squad
Goalkeepers: Adnan Gušo (CS Pandurii Lignitul Târgu Jiu).
Defenders: Džemal Berberović (FC Kuban Krasnodar), Branimir Bajić (TuS Koblenz), Safet Nadarević (NK Zagreb), Ivan Radeljić (NK Slaven Koprivnica), Ante Aračić (FC Molenbeek Brussels Strombeek), Samir Merzić (FK Teplice).
Midfielders: Mirko Hrgović (HNK Hajduk Split), Zvjezdan Misimović (1. FC Nürnberg), Elvir Rahimić (PFC CSKA Moskva), Darko Maletić (FK Partizan), Branislav Krunić (FC Moskva).
Forwards: Sejad Salihović (TSG Hoffenheim), Vedad Ibišević (TSG Hoffenheim), Edin Džeko (VfL Wolsfburg), Adnan Čustović (R. Excelsior Mouscron), Zlatan Muslimović (Atalanta BC), Senijad Ibričić (NK Zagreb), Dragan Blatnjak (FC Khimki), Admir Vladavić (MŠK Zilina).
Fresh faces
Defenders Semir Merzić and Ante Aračić will get the chance to impress along with forward Sejad Salihović as Bosnia-Herzegovina face Greece in Athens on 13 October before taking on Norway in Sarajevo four days later. The coach reckons successive defeats by Hungary and Moldova have ended his side's Group C chances, saying: "Our aim now is to play the best we can and to get some decent results."
Bosnia-Herzegovina squad
Goalkeepers: Adnan Gušo (CS Pandurii Lignitul Târgu Jiu).
Defenders: Džemal Berberović (FC Kuban Krasnodar), Branimir Bajić (TuS Koblenz), Safet Nadarević (NK Zagreb), Ivan Radeljić (NK Slaven Koprivnica), Ante Aračić (FC Molenbeek Brussels Strombeek), Samir Merzić (FK Teplice).
Midfielders: Mirko Hrgović (HNK Hajduk Split), Zvjezdan Misimović (1. FC Nürnberg), Elvir Rahimić (PFC CSKA Moskva), Darko Maletić (FK Partizan), Branislav Krunić (FC Moskva).
Forwards: Sejad Salihović (TSG Hoffenheim), Vedad Ibišević (TSG Hoffenheim), Edin Džeko (VfL Wolsfburg), Adnan Čustović (R. Excelsior Mouscron), Zlatan Muslimović (Atalanta BC), Senijad Ibričić (NK Zagreb), Dragan Blatnjak (FC Khimki), Admir Vladavić (MŠK Zilina).
Newcastle's Owen going under knife
Newcastle United striker Michael Owen will miss England's Euro2008 qualifiers against Estonia and Russia next month due to a hernia op.
Owen will have surgery in Germany on Friday, which is expected to leave him sidelined for at least three weeks.
Toon boss Sam Allardyce had been hoping Owen, 27, would avoid surgery.
He played the hitman against West Ham at the weekend despite reports he needed an op.
But the player was forced to limp off early in the second half
Owen will have surgery in Germany on Friday, which is expected to leave him sidelined for at least three weeks.
Toon boss Sam Allardyce had been hoping Owen, 27, would avoid surgery.
He played the hitman against West Ham at the weekend despite reports he needed an op.
But the player was forced to limp off early in the second half
Friday, September 21, 2007
Portugal to hold meeting on Scolari
The Portuguese Soccer Federation said on Thursday it will hold an emergency board meeting next week to discuss coach Luiz Felipe Scolari's four-match suspension by Uefa.
Brazilian Scolari, who was banned earlier on Thursday, has apologised for lashing out at Serbian player Ivica Dragutinovic after their 1-1 draw in a Euro 2008 qualifier on Sept. 12.
Federation president Gilberto Madail said in a statement to reporters he had not yet received UEFA's explanation for the punishment.
"However, to suggest a four-game suspension, which Scolari will appeal, according to his rights, if confirmed, is a heavy sanction for the Portuguese team that is playing to qualify for the final phase of the Euro 2008," Madail said.
"I met with Scolari for about two hours to share some thoughts on the problem and decided to convene an emergency meeting of directors for Monday.
"I am not the owner of the Federation and will accept, like Scolari, any decision that comes from the board of directors."
Scolari, who sat next to Madail during the meeting with reporters, said: "Although I have recognised with all honesty my mistake, I think the sanction is excessive.
"The player who started this whole situation (Dragutinovic) was suspended for two games
Brazilian Scolari, who was banned earlier on Thursday, has apologised for lashing out at Serbian player Ivica Dragutinovic after their 1-1 draw in a Euro 2008 qualifier on Sept. 12.
Federation president Gilberto Madail said in a statement to reporters he had not yet received UEFA's explanation for the punishment.
"However, to suggest a four-game suspension, which Scolari will appeal, according to his rights, if confirmed, is a heavy sanction for the Portuguese team that is playing to qualify for the final phase of the Euro 2008," Madail said.
"I met with Scolari for about two hours to share some thoughts on the problem and decided to convene an emergency meeting of directors for Monday.
"I am not the owner of the Federation and will accept, like Scolari, any decision that comes from the board of directors."
Scolari, who sat next to Madail during the meeting with reporters, said: "Although I have recognised with all honesty my mistake, I think the sanction is excessive.
"The player who started this whole situation (Dragutinovic) was suspended for two games
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Scolari banned for last four qualifiers
Uefa have banned Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari for four matches following his attack on Serbia player Ivica Dragutinovic, European soccer's governing body said in a statement on Thursday.
The punishment, announced by Uefa's disciplinary body, means Scolari will be unable to coach Portugal during their last four Euro 2008 qualifying matches although he has decided to appeal.
"Before and during the match, he will not be allowed to go in the team dressing-room, the tunnel, or the technical zone, or on the pitch," Uefa said on its Web site (www.uefa.com).
"In addition, he will not be allowed to communicate with his team."
Scolari, who also received a Ђ12,000 fine for what Uefa termed his "assault" on left back Dragutinovic, was seen lashing out at the player following Portugal's 1-1 draw at home to Serbia in their Group A qualifier on Sept 12.
Dragutinovic, who was shown a red card at the end of the match, was also given a two-match ban for improper conduct and will miss Serbia's qualifying matches in Armenia and Azerbaijan on Oct. 13 and 17 respectively.
Scolari said: "Although I have recognised with all honesty my mistake I think the sanction is excessive. The player who started this whole situation was suspended for two games and that is why I will appeal this decision as soon as the Portuguese Federation receives the written reasons."
Portugal finished runners-up on home soil when they hosted the last European Championship in 2004 but are struggling to book a place at next year's finals.
Scolari's team are third in Group A, four points adrift of leaders Poland and two points behind Finland with only the top two qualifying for the finals.
Portugal and fourth-placed Serbia, who are five points off the pace, have a game in hand over the top two.
Subject to any appeal, Scolari will sit out the matches away to Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan in October and at home against Armenia and Finland in November.
The punishment, announced by Uefa's disciplinary body, means Scolari will be unable to coach Portugal during their last four Euro 2008 qualifying matches although he has decided to appeal.
"Before and during the match, he will not be allowed to go in the team dressing-room, the tunnel, or the technical zone, or on the pitch," Uefa said on its Web site (www.uefa.com).
"In addition, he will not be allowed to communicate with his team."
Scolari, who also received a Ђ12,000 fine for what Uefa termed his "assault" on left back Dragutinovic, was seen lashing out at the player following Portugal's 1-1 draw at home to Serbia in their Group A qualifier on Sept 12.
Dragutinovic, who was shown a red card at the end of the match, was also given a two-match ban for improper conduct and will miss Serbia's qualifying matches in Armenia and Azerbaijan on Oct. 13 and 17 respectively.
Scolari said: "Although I have recognised with all honesty my mistake I think the sanction is excessive. The player who started this whole situation was suspended for two games and that is why I will appeal this decision as soon as the Portuguese Federation receives the written reasons."
Portugal finished runners-up on home soil when they hosted the last European Championship in 2004 but are struggling to book a place at next year's finals.
Scolari's team are third in Group A, four points adrift of leaders Poland and two points behind Finland with only the top two qualifying for the finals.
Portugal and fourth-placed Serbia, who are five points off the pace, have a game in hand over the top two.
Subject to any appeal, Scolari will sit out the matches away to Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan in October and at home against Armenia and Finland in November.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
UKRAINE: SHELAYEV 'WE HAVE NOTHING TO LOSE'
(AGI/ITALPRESS) - Kiev, Sept 11 - The last train for Ukraine for Euro2008 passes through Italy. Like his coach Blokhin, Oleh Shelayev is convinced that tomorrow's match against the Azzurri will be decisive for his last chances to qualify for the European cup because if they lose they can forget about Switzerland and Austria. His goal on Saturday was not enough to allow them to win against Georgia: 'We have lost important points in the last match and I didn't see those qualities that could help us defeat Italy. In spite of that, I am optimistic and I am sure that we can take advantage from our last chance.' However, historically, Ukraine has not done well with Italy. In the world cup in Germany Italy won by 3-0 and in the match of the first round Italy won by 2-0. 'But we cannot pretend to be defensive,' said Shelayev. 'We must give our 150-200 percent,' confirmed Andry Shevchenko. 'This is the only way we can obtain a good result. We know that Italy is champion of the world and one of the strongest teams on the planet, if not the strongers.
Finland win in Euro 2008 qualifier
Teemu Tainio kept Finland in the hunt for a spot in the European Championship by scoring the winning goal on Wednesday in a 2-1 victory over Kazakhstan.
The Tottenham midfielder scored through a group players after a corner kick in the 59th minute.
Finland first took the lead in the 13th minute when Alexei Eremenko Jr., the most influential offensive player in the game, chipped the goalkeeper.
Kazakhstan came back when Dimitriy Byakov timed his jump perfectly to head the ball into an empty net in the 23rd, beating Finland goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen in the air.
Finland had a large amount of ball possession, but Kazakhstan goalkeeper David Loriya played well, especially after the interval.
Finland now has 17 points from nine games in Group A, two behind Poland.
The Tottenham midfielder scored through a group players after a corner kick in the 59th minute.
Finland first took the lead in the 13th minute when Alexei Eremenko Jr., the most influential offensive player in the game, chipped the goalkeeper.
Kazakhstan came back when Dimitriy Byakov timed his jump perfectly to head the ball into an empty net in the 23rd, beating Finland goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen in the air.
Finland had a large amount of ball possession, but Kazakhstan goalkeeper David Loriya played well, especially after the interval.
Finland now has 17 points from nine games in Group A, two behind Poland.
PASS ME ANOTHER SLICE OF EUPHORIA
Eck got us high in Paris - now it's up to Old Firm and Dons to keep feelgood factor alive
Traynor
ODD feeling isn't it? And no, I'm not talking about that sensation you get when you look in the mirror in the morning and wonder when the stranger moved in.
But it is peculiar this kind of numbness which has descended like a heavy, damp cloth on the nation's mood.
One moment we are all giving it yahoo in the wake of Scotland's tremendous triumph in Paris and the next we're close to moribund. The pulse has slowed, the exhilaration has subsided and you realise walking on air has a down side.
Gravity always drags you back down and when the adrenalin rush has ended reality slaps you around the head. You look up and see Scotland is still a little nation with big social problems and guess what? It's still bloody raining.
There will be no apologies for helping those of you who are still playing extra time from last week by asking the wife: "Come on Ally vouz the matin?
"Gonnae geeza petite cafe au lait? Oh, et deep fry moi wan ae thae croissants? Gracias doll!"
Advertisement
Sooner or later, though, we have to come back to the real world and that's why Saturday was a letdown. Plenty of matches, loads of goals and incidents and bizarre calls by refs yet it was all still a bit flat.
Blame Big Eck. He sent that team out to beat France. It was he who made us dream about qualifying for Euro2008 and it's his fault the country's population got stuck somewhere between reality and fantasy.
For a few days Scotland was like a huge home for the demented. People wandered around with daft expressions as though matron had doubled the dose of happy pills.
But the feelgood factor subsides and from having been shot through the roof by James McFadden's goal our senses lost elevation and crashed into the basement.
Saturday should have been enjoyable but not even the scoreline from Recreation Park - yes, I know I'm an Airdrie fan and we were at home, but it's always good news when the creepy crawlies are gubbed - could dispel the cloud of apathy.
When Scotland win, when they stand up, reach out and grab the glory there is no better high and it takes time to recover from such delirious times. Usually we need to work at making the normality of our leagues seem exciting but not this time.
The Champions League begins for real tomorrow with Celtic against Shakhtar Donetsk in Ukraine then Rangers' home tie against Stuttgart. Then, on Thursday Aberdeen take on Dnipro in the UEFA Cup.
These matches have just sort of tip-toed up on us while we were all so focused on Scotland's European Championship exploits. For once the Champions League wasn't allowed head room but now that Big Eck's boys are having a break from national service the biggest club show on earth is about to kick in.
So, too, is the adrenalin. If you are a supporter of football and this country you are about to jump back on to the rollercoaster with the Old Firm and the Dons.
Celtic, of course, are the only side going into Europe with a win behind them. They thrashed Inverness 5-0 while Rangers lost 4-2 at Tynecastle and Aberdeen were beaten 2-1 at home to Motherwell but European competition can bring out the best in players and that's what Walter Smith and Jimmy Calderwood must be hoping.
And Gordon Strachan? He knows he has players capable of turning a match with one touch but even though Celtic were banging them in from all over the place on Saturday the manager knows Shakhtar are a very able outfit.
One of the richest men in Ukraine, Rinat Akhmetov, owns Shakhtar and he spent £41million bringing in seven signings during the summer. They have six Brazilians including youngsters Ilsinho, a £7m full-back, and wide midfield player Willian, who is valued at £9.5m.
The other Brazilians are Fernandinho and Jadson, also midfielders, and front runners Adriano Luis and Brandao, who scored against Celtic a few years back. But he might not play this time because Shakhtar raided Livorno to sign Cristiano Lucarelli, who has just earned a return to the Italian national squad.
Clearly, Akhmetov means business and Shakhtar, who are top of their league, will be extremely tough opponents.
Even so, Strachan has reason for optimism with players such as Shunsuke Nakamura, Massimo Donati and Aiden McGeady on form and Celtic could help resurrect the nation's feelgood factor before we move on to the next night's helping.
Rangers are not in the best shape for their game against Stuttgart but Smith has the consolation of knowing his players can't be so lacklustre two games in a row.
But more than a few of his troops will have to find more than they have shown so far.
DaMarcus Beasley has to do more than flit around the edges of games. He is too easily dispossessed and so far has done nothing more than flatter to deceive.
If the American is really a player Wednesday would be a good time to prove it but Daniel Cousin has to impose himself more often as well. Then there is Alan Hutton who reverted to his old ways on Saturday by lunging into a stupid challenge on Kestutis Ivaskevicius which gave Hearts apenalty at a time when Rangers were dragging themselves back into contention.
Smith's team will have to be at their best if their Champions League campaign is to avoid derailment on the first leg of the trip.
The same applies to Aberdeen, although it is difficult to see who can step forward and score for them. They are having a miserable start in the SPL but one good result at European level can spark a season and that's what Calderwood is looking for.
With a bit of luck the country could be walking on air again by the end of this week and before we know it Scotland will be back in action against Ukraine.
Isn't it great to be alive? Isn't this old game just terrific? And by the way, who is that in the mirror? Can't be me. He's smiling.
Traynor
ODD feeling isn't it? And no, I'm not talking about that sensation you get when you look in the mirror in the morning and wonder when the stranger moved in.
But it is peculiar this kind of numbness which has descended like a heavy, damp cloth on the nation's mood.
One moment we are all giving it yahoo in the wake of Scotland's tremendous triumph in Paris and the next we're close to moribund. The pulse has slowed, the exhilaration has subsided and you realise walking on air has a down side.
Gravity always drags you back down and when the adrenalin rush has ended reality slaps you around the head. You look up and see Scotland is still a little nation with big social problems and guess what? It's still bloody raining.
There will be no apologies for helping those of you who are still playing extra time from last week by asking the wife: "Come on Ally vouz the matin?
"Gonnae geeza petite cafe au lait? Oh, et deep fry moi wan ae thae croissants? Gracias doll!"
Advertisement
Sooner or later, though, we have to come back to the real world and that's why Saturday was a letdown. Plenty of matches, loads of goals and incidents and bizarre calls by refs yet it was all still a bit flat.
Blame Big Eck. He sent that team out to beat France. It was he who made us dream about qualifying for Euro2008 and it's his fault the country's population got stuck somewhere between reality and fantasy.
For a few days Scotland was like a huge home for the demented. People wandered around with daft expressions as though matron had doubled the dose of happy pills.
But the feelgood factor subsides and from having been shot through the roof by James McFadden's goal our senses lost elevation and crashed into the basement.
Saturday should have been enjoyable but not even the scoreline from Recreation Park - yes, I know I'm an Airdrie fan and we were at home, but it's always good news when the creepy crawlies are gubbed - could dispel the cloud of apathy.
When Scotland win, when they stand up, reach out and grab the glory there is no better high and it takes time to recover from such delirious times. Usually we need to work at making the normality of our leagues seem exciting but not this time.
The Champions League begins for real tomorrow with Celtic against Shakhtar Donetsk in Ukraine then Rangers' home tie against Stuttgart. Then, on Thursday Aberdeen take on Dnipro in the UEFA Cup.
These matches have just sort of tip-toed up on us while we were all so focused on Scotland's European Championship exploits. For once the Champions League wasn't allowed head room but now that Big Eck's boys are having a break from national service the biggest club show on earth is about to kick in.
So, too, is the adrenalin. If you are a supporter of football and this country you are about to jump back on to the rollercoaster with the Old Firm and the Dons.
Celtic, of course, are the only side going into Europe with a win behind them. They thrashed Inverness 5-0 while Rangers lost 4-2 at Tynecastle and Aberdeen were beaten 2-1 at home to Motherwell but European competition can bring out the best in players and that's what Walter Smith and Jimmy Calderwood must be hoping.
And Gordon Strachan? He knows he has players capable of turning a match with one touch but even though Celtic were banging them in from all over the place on Saturday the manager knows Shakhtar are a very able outfit.
One of the richest men in Ukraine, Rinat Akhmetov, owns Shakhtar and he spent £41million bringing in seven signings during the summer. They have six Brazilians including youngsters Ilsinho, a £7m full-back, and wide midfield player Willian, who is valued at £9.5m.
The other Brazilians are Fernandinho and Jadson, also midfielders, and front runners Adriano Luis and Brandao, who scored against Celtic a few years back. But he might not play this time because Shakhtar raided Livorno to sign Cristiano Lucarelli, who has just earned a return to the Italian national squad.
Clearly, Akhmetov means business and Shakhtar, who are top of their league, will be extremely tough opponents.
Even so, Strachan has reason for optimism with players such as Shunsuke Nakamura, Massimo Donati and Aiden McGeady on form and Celtic could help resurrect the nation's feelgood factor before we move on to the next night's helping.
Rangers are not in the best shape for their game against Stuttgart but Smith has the consolation of knowing his players can't be so lacklustre two games in a row.
But more than a few of his troops will have to find more than they have shown so far.
DaMarcus Beasley has to do more than flit around the edges of games. He is too easily dispossessed and so far has done nothing more than flatter to deceive.
If the American is really a player Wednesday would be a good time to prove it but Daniel Cousin has to impose himself more often as well. Then there is Alan Hutton who reverted to his old ways on Saturday by lunging into a stupid challenge on Kestutis Ivaskevicius which gave Hearts apenalty at a time when Rangers were dragging themselves back into contention.
Smith's team will have to be at their best if their Champions League campaign is to avoid derailment on the first leg of the trip.
The same applies to Aberdeen, although it is difficult to see who can step forward and score for them. They are having a miserable start in the SPL but one good result at European level can spark a season and that's what Calderwood is looking for.
With a bit of luck the country could be walking on air again by the end of this week and before we know it Scotland will be back in action against Ukraine.
Isn't it great to be alive? Isn't this old game just terrific? And by the way, who is that in the mirror? Can't be me. He's smiling.
McLeish hails one of Scots greatest goals
Scotland coach Alex McLeish said his team had scored one of the country's greatest goals in their shock 1-0 away win over France on Wednesday.
James McFadden struck on 64 minutes to earn the Scots all three points and top spot in Euro 2008 qualifying Group B with 21 points from nine games.
Italy, who beat Ukraine 2-1, are second on 20 points with France two points off the pace.
"It was one of the greatest and one of the most important goals of Scottish football," a delighted McLeish said..
"It needed the passion Scottish teams always have...It was very difficult to get this result. We needed a special performance and the players have shown fantastic confidence today."
Scotland also beat France 1-0 last October at Hampden Park in their bid to reach next year's European championship finals in Austria and Switzerland.
But they had not won on French soil since a 1-0 victory in Colombes 57 years ago.
Everton forward McFadden benefited from a poor clearance by the French defence to beat Mickael Landreau with a 25-metre drive.
France coach Raymond Domenech rued his team's missed chances.
"We played well but we lacked some success," he told a news conference. "We played better than in the first leg, we had more chances.
"The next three matches will be decisive. To qualify for the Euro finals, you have to fight and the players know that very well."
France still have to play the Faroe Islands and Ukraine away and Lithuania at home.
James McFadden struck on 64 minutes to earn the Scots all three points and top spot in Euro 2008 qualifying Group B with 21 points from nine games.
Italy, who beat Ukraine 2-1, are second on 20 points with France two points off the pace.
"It was one of the greatest and one of the most important goals of Scottish football," a delighted McLeish said..
"It needed the passion Scottish teams always have...It was very difficult to get this result. We needed a special performance and the players have shown fantastic confidence today."
Scotland also beat France 1-0 last October at Hampden Park in their bid to reach next year's European championship finals in Austria and Switzerland.
But they had not won on French soil since a 1-0 victory in Colombes 57 years ago.
Everton forward McFadden benefited from a poor clearance by the French defence to beat Mickael Landreau with a 25-metre drive.
France coach Raymond Domenech rued his team's missed chances.
"We played well but we lacked some success," he told a news conference. "We played better than in the first leg, we had more chances.
"The next three matches will be decisive. To qualify for the Euro finals, you have to fight and the players know that very well."
France still have to play the Faroe Islands and Ukraine away and Lithuania at home.
Euro2008 Round Up
The Euro2008 round up from Wednesday's action.
Poland moved a step closer to qualifying for Euro 2008 after a goalless draw against a Finland side that could still join them in Switzerland and Austria.
A sell-out crowd at the Olympiastadion roared on the second-placed hosts, seeking to qualify for the finals of a major tournament for the first time, but they could not find a way past Poland keeper Artur Boruc.
The Finns' Jussi Jaaskelainen was also a busy man in a pulsating game in which each side hit the woodwork.
The stalemate is a good result for Portugal, who will move level on 19 points with Finland in Group A if they beat Serbia later Wednesday.
In the same pool, Belgium's slim chances of making it into the top two are all but over after a 2-2 draw in Kazakhstan.
They had led 2-0 thanks to goals from Karel Geraerts and Kevin Mirallas but a Dmitry Byakov strike and a Samat Smakov penalty earnt the home side a draw.
Defending European champions Greece continue to lead the way in Group C after a 2-2 draw at second-placed Norway.
Sotirios Kyrgiakos twice put Otto Rehhagel's men in front but the hosts levelled on each occasion through John Carew and John Arne Riise.
Group E leaders Croatia took another step towards Austria and Switzerland with a 6-0 thrashing of Andorra.
Darijo Srna, Mladen Petric (two), Niko Kranjcar, Eduardo da Silva and Ivan Rakitic did the damage for a rampant Croatian outfit.
The hosts' misery was completed 14 minutes from time when Genis Garcia was dismissed.
Poland moved a step closer to qualifying for Euro 2008 after a goalless draw against a Finland side that could still join them in Switzerland and Austria.
A sell-out crowd at the Olympiastadion roared on the second-placed hosts, seeking to qualify for the finals of a major tournament for the first time, but they could not find a way past Poland keeper Artur Boruc.
The Finns' Jussi Jaaskelainen was also a busy man in a pulsating game in which each side hit the woodwork.
The stalemate is a good result for Portugal, who will move level on 19 points with Finland in Group A if they beat Serbia later Wednesday.
In the same pool, Belgium's slim chances of making it into the top two are all but over after a 2-2 draw in Kazakhstan.
They had led 2-0 thanks to goals from Karel Geraerts and Kevin Mirallas but a Dmitry Byakov strike and a Samat Smakov penalty earnt the home side a draw.
Defending European champions Greece continue to lead the way in Group C after a 2-2 draw at second-placed Norway.
Sotirios Kyrgiakos twice put Otto Rehhagel's men in front but the hosts levelled on each occasion through John Carew and John Arne Riise.
Group E leaders Croatia took another step towards Austria and Switzerland with a 6-0 thrashing of Andorra.
Darijo Srna, Mladen Petric (two), Niko Kranjcar, Eduardo da Silva and Ivan Rakitic did the damage for a rampant Croatian outfit.
The hosts' misery was completed 14 minutes from time when Genis Garcia was dismissed.
'It Feels Like We Lost It' Says Staunton
The Boys In Green let a 2-1 lead slip with just a few minutes of the match remaining, when hesitance at the back let in Cech to blast home the equaliser for the home side.
Manager Steve Staunton knows that his side threw away the opportunity to gain a much needed win in their Euro2008 qualifying campaign.
With the result, the Republic of Ireland sit in third place in Group D, three points behind the Czech Republic, a deficit that would have been more favourable with a win.
Although the team still came away from tough conditions in Bratislava with a draw, Staunton admits the result feels much worse.
“I’m very disappointed, it feels as if we lost the game, but I suppose the most important thing is that we didn’t lose it,” he told Sky Sports.
“Our retention of the ball was poor, our passing was poor and it cost us in the end. We did far too much work because of sloppy play.
“For the first half hour we did well. We contained them and we were in control. But then two or three passes went astray, they had a couple of shots and we couldn't get out of our own penalty box. We brought it on ourselves,” he continued to the BBC.
“Any time you concede a goal in the last minute you will be disappointed. We didn't get hold of the ball at all and didn't pass it as well as we can so those things have to improve if we are to beat the Czechs.
“If we are going to qualify then we have to win the game in Prague on Wednesday. That would open it again.”
Manager Steve Staunton knows that his side threw away the opportunity to gain a much needed win in their Euro2008 qualifying campaign.
With the result, the Republic of Ireland sit in third place in Group D, three points behind the Czech Republic, a deficit that would have been more favourable with a win.
Although the team still came away from tough conditions in Bratislava with a draw, Staunton admits the result feels much worse.
“I’m very disappointed, it feels as if we lost the game, but I suppose the most important thing is that we didn’t lose it,” he told Sky Sports.
“Our retention of the ball was poor, our passing was poor and it cost us in the end. We did far too much work because of sloppy play.
“For the first half hour we did well. We contained them and we were in control. But then two or three passes went astray, they had a couple of shots and we couldn't get out of our own penalty box. We brought it on ourselves,” he continued to the BBC.
“Any time you concede a goal in the last minute you will be disappointed. We didn't get hold of the ball at all and didn't pass it as well as we can so those things have to improve if we are to beat the Czechs.
“If we are going to qualify then we have to win the game in Prague on Wednesday. That would open it again.”
Wigan boss Hutchings admits Heskey likely to miss Euros
Wigan Athletic boss Chris Hutchings admits Emile Heskey is "touch and go" over whether he'll be fit for England's Euro2008 qualifiers next month.
Hutchings said: "I suppose it is touch and go for those England games now. It all depends on the speed of his recovery.
"From our point of view, we want Emile back as soon as possible, and he is certainly going to be a big miss for us.
"Realistically, we are probably looking at Emile missing between four and six weeks' football.
"If he is back in action any sooner than that it would be a huge bonus."
Describing the incident early in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Fulham at the JJB Stadium, Hutchings added: "It was all very innocuous.
"Emile just slipped on the turf and rolled his ankle, but these things happen sometimes.
"At first we feared it was ligament damage, but the scan revealed a slight hairline fracture of the metatarsal.
"It's very unfortunate for Emile after the week he had with England, and especially as he has started the season so brightly."
Hutchings said: "I suppose it is touch and go for those England games now. It all depends on the speed of his recovery.
"From our point of view, we want Emile back as soon as possible, and he is certainly going to be a big miss for us.
"Realistically, we are probably looking at Emile missing between four and six weeks' football.
"If he is back in action any sooner than that it would be a huge bonus."
Describing the incident early in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Fulham at the JJB Stadium, Hutchings added: "It was all very innocuous.
"Emile just slipped on the turf and rolled his ankle, but these things happen sometimes.
"At first we feared it was ligament damage, but the scan revealed a slight hairline fracture of the metatarsal.
"It's very unfortunate for Emile after the week he had with England, and especially as he has started the season so brightly."
Voronin row with Blokhin boosts Scots
SCOTLAND's prospects in their next Euro2008 qualifier against Ukraine at Hampden next month have been handed an unexpected boost with the news that key man Andrei Voronin looks certain to be left out of the visitors' squad, after the Liverpool forward had a massive bust-up with head coach Oleg Blokhin.
The two men were engaged in a furious touchline row during the 2-1 home defeat to Italy, which has all but ended Ukraine's hopes of qualifying for the finals.
Voronin, who was demoted to the bench by Blokhin due to an alleged lack of match fitness,
failed to control a poor pass from Andriy Shevchenko in the 77th minute, he lost possession to the Italians, who went on to score the winner. This prompted Blokhin to direct a verbal tirade at him from the touchline. Voronin responded in kind, and the row continued in the dressing room after the match.
Blokhin used the post-match press conference to launch a swingeing attack on Voronin, vowing that the star would not play for Ukraine again while he remained in charge. "He caused us to concede a goal," said Blokhin. "I won't allow a player to talk to the head coach in the tone he used. He might be a top player, but he won't play for the national team
The two men were engaged in a furious touchline row during the 2-1 home defeat to Italy, which has all but ended Ukraine's hopes of qualifying for the finals.
Voronin, who was demoted to the bench by Blokhin due to an alleged lack of match fitness,
failed to control a poor pass from Andriy Shevchenko in the 77th minute, he lost possession to the Italians, who went on to score the winner. This prompted Blokhin to direct a verbal tirade at him from the touchline. Voronin responded in kind, and the row continued in the dressing room after the match.
Blokhin used the post-match press conference to launch a swingeing attack on Voronin, vowing that the star would not play for Ukraine again while he remained in charge. "He caused us to concede a goal," said Blokhin. "I won't allow a player to talk to the head coach in the tone he used. He might be a top player, but he won't play for the national team
Scotland confident ahead of Euro2008 qualifier against France
PARIS (AFP) — A confident Scotland are looking to end a 10-year absence from major international tournaments by taking points from world finalists France in the Euro 2008 qualifier in Paris on Wednesday.
Substitute goal scorer in Scotland's 3-1 win over Lithuania at Hampden on Saturday, Jamie McFadden, said that victory and their 1-0 win last October over France had put them in a confident mood.
"We believe we can get a result and I think the way we have been playing backs that up," said the Everton forward. "You need confidence going into games and there is no better confidence than winning games."
Despite their tough draw, Scotland are second in group B, just one point behind leaders France and one point ahead of world champions Italy. If Scotland qualify for Euro 2008, it will be the first time they have competed in an international tournament since the 1998 World Cup in France.
Even defeat at the Parc des Princes would not rule out Scotland going on to claim an unlikely place in the European Championship, with games against Ukraine and Georgia to come next month.
Alex McLeish's side will also be boosted by the return from suspension of skipper and Rangers midfielder Barry Ferguson, who is not overawed by his star studded French opponents.
"If you want to play at the highest level these players are the guys you want to play against," said Ferguson.
"Top-quality players. But they're just names, you shouldn't bother about names. I don't. I guess most of our boys won't either."
French coach Raymond Domenech appeared in no danger of underestimating his opponents, especially without the suspended Barcelona striker Thierry Henry who received a yellow card in the 0-0 draw against Italy on Saturday.
"Scotland is a team of fighters who have surpassed themselves in this competition since the beginning," Domenech said.
Domenech was even worried that Sunday's World Cup rugby match between South Africa and Samoa would churn up the Parc des Princes pitch and give an advantage to the defensive Scots who favour the long high balls.
"It's going to ruin the pitch. We need a flat pitch, without the holes," Domenech said.
"With the ground like that we'll have to play lots of high balls - against the Scots. Thanks a lot," added Domenech.
The one bright spot for the French coach was the possible return of Arsenal defender William Gallas, who missed the Italy match with a groin injury but was now training "almost normally."
Substitute goal scorer in Scotland's 3-1 win over Lithuania at Hampden on Saturday, Jamie McFadden, said that victory and their 1-0 win last October over France had put them in a confident mood.
"We believe we can get a result and I think the way we have been playing backs that up," said the Everton forward. "You need confidence going into games and there is no better confidence than winning games."
Despite their tough draw, Scotland are second in group B, just one point behind leaders France and one point ahead of world champions Italy. If Scotland qualify for Euro 2008, it will be the first time they have competed in an international tournament since the 1998 World Cup in France.
Even defeat at the Parc des Princes would not rule out Scotland going on to claim an unlikely place in the European Championship, with games against Ukraine and Georgia to come next month.
Alex McLeish's side will also be boosted by the return from suspension of skipper and Rangers midfielder Barry Ferguson, who is not overawed by his star studded French opponents.
"If you want to play at the highest level these players are the guys you want to play against," said Ferguson.
"Top-quality players. But they're just names, you shouldn't bother about names. I don't. I guess most of our boys won't either."
French coach Raymond Domenech appeared in no danger of underestimating his opponents, especially without the suspended Barcelona striker Thierry Henry who received a yellow card in the 0-0 draw against Italy on Saturday.
"Scotland is a team of fighters who have surpassed themselves in this competition since the beginning," Domenech said.
Domenech was even worried that Sunday's World Cup rugby match between South Africa and Samoa would churn up the Parc des Princes pitch and give an advantage to the defensive Scots who favour the long high balls.
"It's going to ruin the pitch. We need a flat pitch, without the holes," Domenech said.
"With the ground like that we'll have to play lots of high balls - against the Scots. Thanks a lot," added Domenech.
The one bright spot for the French coach was the possible return of Arsenal defender William Gallas, who missed the Italy match with a groin injury but was now training "almost normally."
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