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
Monday, October 29, 2007
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.
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