[ENG] Premiership 2006/2007 (8 Viewers)
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I dont think Salmon likes Man U.
Anyway, Ronaldo is almost single handedly winning the title race. Chelsea has a group of real good players, but Christiano is the ace card, and bunch of jacks, queens, kings werent be enough. ManUre title hopes depends almost entirely on Ronaldo being injury free from now on. If I was Abramovic and his millions, I would just pay some snipers to shoot Ronaldo down.
Anyway, Ronaldo is almost single handedly winning the title race. Chelsea has a group of real good players, but Christiano is the ace card, and bunch of jacks, queens, kings werent be enough. ManUre title hopes depends almost entirely on Ronaldo being injury free from now on. If I was Abramovic and his millions, I would just pay some snipers to shoot Ronaldo down.
Which players will be on the move in January?
Arsenal
Last season Dec 31: 6th.
End season: 4th.
Change: +2.
Last season's January signings
Theo Walcott (Southampton, £5m rising to £12m).
Arsene Wenger completed the anticipated capture of Walcott and, though he did not make an appearance,, he did go to the World Cup with England. Now coming into his own.
Emmanuel Adebayor (Monaco, £5m).
Little was known about the Togo striker but he scored four times in his13 appearances. He was cup-tied for European games and is now making his mark.
Vassiriki Abou Diaby (Auxerre, £3.5m rising to £6m).
Started strongly but suffered serious injury at Manchester City in early May and has not played since.
Mart Poom (Sunderland, u).
Signed as cover and remains Arsenal's third choice goalkeeper.
Jeremie Aliadiere (West Ham, ral).
His career has been affected by injuries, but he finally returned to the first team recently against Portsmouth after three years on the fringes.
This season's shopping list
Wenger has claimed he will not repeat last season's transfer spree and is happy to let youth take the lead at the Emirates. But injuries to Tomas Rosicky, Thierry Henry, William Gallas and Freddie Ljungberg have highlighted their lack of strength in depth.
Aston Villa
Last season Dec 31: 13th.
End season: 16th.
Change: -3.
Last season's January signings
None.
This season's shopping list
Martin O'Neill has admitted he is desperate to strengthen his squad in the transfer window. Celtic midfielder Stilian Petrov is O'Neill's only major signing since he took over and the Villa manager said: "We haven't got a strong enough squad and, apart from Olof Mellberg and a few others, we have a very young side." As well as signing Petrov, O'Neill has brought in free agents Chris Sutton and Didier Agathe, and signed Gabor Kiraly on loan after seeing two goalkeepers suffer injuries. He is now believed to be considering moves for West Bromwich Albion captain Curtis Davies and Manchester United defender Phil Bardsley, currently on loan at Rangers. O'Neill also ran the rule over Preston striker David Nugent at Birmingham recently but the player wants to stay and help his club's promotion push. Tottenham striker Robbie Keane is another possible arrival at around £6 million while Villa have also shown interest in QPR winger Lee Cook.
Blackburn Rovers
Last season
Dec 31: 9th.
End season: 6th.
Change: +3.
Last season's January signings
David Bentley (Arsenal, u).
The Arsenal winger, previously on loan at Norwich, had been on loan at Ewood Park and after making a positive impact, Mark Hughes was happy to sign him permanently. Bentley's continued improvement helped Blackburn win a place in the Uefa Cup and he has continued his progress this season.
Martin Olsson (Hogaborgs, n).
The teenage defender signed for a small fee following a trial but has yet to be involved in the first team.
Florent Sinama-Pongolle (Liverpool, 6ml).
Started eight League games and though he forged a good partnership with Craig Bellamy he scored only once and is now in Spain with Real Huelva.
This season's shopping list
Mark Hughes has already admitted he would be interested in signing former England captain David Beckham if he leaves Real Madrid contract, but that remains a hope. Cyprus striker Yiannakis Okkas (Olympiakos) is a player he is eyeing along with Czech midfielder Tomas Sivok (Sparta Prague). Lucas Neill could be about to depart and if Liverpool confirm their interest in the Australian defender, Dynamo Kiev's Andriy Nesmachnyi could be signed after spending a trial period at Ewood Park. Former Ewood star David Dunn could also return from Birmingham.
Bolton Wanderers
Last season
Dec 31: 7th.
End season: 8th. Change: -1.
Last season's January signings
Ali Al-Habsi (Lyn, F).
A goalkeeper from Oman, he was signed as cover and made the bench on a handful occasions last season. With Ian Walker injured, he is currently understudy to Jussi Jaaskelainen.
Matt Jansen (Blackburn, F).
Once so highly-rated, he arrived from Ewood Park trying to resurrect his career but injuries again got in the way. He started only three games and was released in the summer.
Oscar Perez (Cordoba, F).
Spanish midfielder who was a non-playing substitute once before leaving without making any impact.
This season's shopping list
With Bolton suffering an erratic season and squad numbers low, Sam Allardyce is expected to make additions. Slovenian defender Branko Ilic is on the Bolton manager's list along with midfielder Alex, the Brazilian playing in Japan for Urawa Reds. Allardyce is also believed to be monitoring French international Vikash Dhorasoo, sacked by Paris St Germain for "gross misconduct". Others prompting interest include Everton striker James Beattie and Deportivo La Coruna midfielder Aldo Duscher.
Charlton Athletic
Last season
Dec 31: 12th.
End season: 13th.
Change: -1.
Last season's January signings
Marcus Bent (Everton, £2m rising to £2.5m).
Two goals from 12 starts after his arrival did little to aid Charlton's fight to avoid relegation and this season he has been regarded as a bit-part player, particularly following the arrival of Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
This season's shopping list
There is no doubt Charlton need to make changes under new manager Alan Pardew. He is due to hold talks with former Hearts captain Steven Pressley about a move to the Valley. But the club recently had a £3 million bid for Hibernian midfielders Kevin Thomson and Scott Brown rejected. Southend striker Freddy Eastwood has also been linked with a £1.8 million move to Charlton whose scouts have also run the rule over Gillingham winger Matthew Jarvis. Costa Rican winger Christian Bolanos has been on the club's wanted list for a while even though he has work permit problems. Much could depend on whether striker Darren Bent can be retained.
Chelsea
Last season Dec 31: 1st.
End season: 1st.
Change: none.
Last season's January signings
Maniche (Dinamo Moscow, 6ml).
Brought in "just to make sure" Chelsea were up to strength. He started only three games and was sent off in one of them, against West Ham.
This season's shopping list
Anderson, Porto's Brazilian midfielder, has been constantly linked with former manager Jose Mourinho. Having spent more than £50 million in the summer, Mourinho is unlikely to make massive additions though some, including Shaun Wright-Phillips, could be on their way. David Villa (Valencia), Fernando Torres (Atletico Madrid) and Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus) have all been part of the speculation linking Chelsea with the best players in the world. Micah Richards has impressed at Manchester City and his England selection will have done his chances of a move no harm. A defender may be a priority. Mourinho said: "It was a bit risky to face the season with only three central defenders because in the past we always had Carvalho, Gallas, Terry and Robert Huth. This season, John is having a few injury problems. It means we are short of a player."
Everton
Last season
Dec 31: 16th.
End season: 11th.
Change: +5.
Last season's January signings
Alan Stubbs (Sunderland, U).
Stubbs returned to Goodison Park to strengthen a defence that was stuttering and was integral to their improvement in the second half of the season. Injury restricted his appearances. Now back and a first choice in defence.
This season's shopping list
Top of the priority list for David Moyes is a new right-back, although the manager has expressed his desire to bring in loan players rather than buying outright. Short of numbers even before recent injury worries, the club will be looking to fill a few gaps in the squad. Tomas Sivok (Sparta Prague) and Lars Jacobsen (FC Copenhagen) are among those being linked with a move to Merseyside. Ipswich striker Billy Clarke has also been tracked with view to a potential move at a cost of up to £2 million. Manchester United's Alan Smith and Derby midfielder Giles Barnes are also being watched. On his way out could be under-achieving striker James Beattie.
Fulham
Last season
Dec 31: 15th.
End season: 12th.
Change: +3.
Last season's January signings
Michael Brown (Tottenham, £1.5m).
His influence upon arrival was minimal; he was injured in his first game, missed four matches, then returned for four before being sent off, against Portsmouth.
Antti Niemi (Southampton, £1m).
Goalkeeper who arrived at a relatively cheap price but he missed eight of the final 11 games of the season through injury.
Tony Warner (Cardiff, £100,000).
Signed originally on loan, he made a good impact then signed permanently but remained as understudy to Niemi. Now on loan at Leeds.
Simon Elliott (Columbus Crew, f).
Bad luck dogged this New Zealand international. He soon established himself in midfield but injury cut short his season and now he is out for the campaign.
Wayne Bridge (Chelsea, 6ml).
England full-back who got his career back on track with a move along the King's Road. Now back at Chelsea and struggling to get a game.
This season's shopping list
Chris Coleman could face a battle to keep players — rather than sign newcomers — particularly his captain, Luis Boa Morte. American Clint Dempsey (New England) and Everton's Simon Davies are on his list. New defenders are a priority.
Liverpool
Last season
Dec 31: 3rd.
End season: 3rd.
Change: None.
Last season's January signings
Daniel Agger (Brondby, £5.8m).
Highly rated defender who made only four appearances last season but is now virtually a regular, keeping Sami Hyypia out of the team.
Paul Anderson (Hull, s).
One for the future, this midfielder was named on the bench recently when Liverpool lost 3-2 to Galatasaray in Turkey.
Jan Kromkamp (Villareal, s).
After making several appearances last season, the Dutch international wing-back was sold to PSV Eindhoven at the end of August, having played once this season.
David Martin (Milton Keynes Dons, u).
A 20-year-old goalkeeper, he has been a substitute for a handful of games this term.
Robbie Fowler (Manchester C, f).
He made a shock return to Anfield at the age of 31. He started nine League games and scored five goals. Fowler was awarded a new contract in the summer but is now used as cover.
This season's shopping list
Rafa Benitez is keen to sign a winger with Simao (Benfica) or Quaresma (Porto) potential arrivals. Matthew Upson (Birmingham) could follow Jermaine Pennant from the Midlands club. The most likely addition is Blackburn's Lucas Neill.
Manchester City
Last season
Dec 31: 8th.
End season: 15th.
Change: -7.
Last season's January signings
Georgios Samaras (Herenveen, £6m).
Having let Robbie Fowler leave, City needed a replacement and got one — at a cost — from Holland. The Greek international, the second most expensive player in the club's history, soon made an impact with a goal as a substitute against Charlton. But so far this season he has scored only two Premiership goals.
Matthew Mills (Southampton, £750,000).
A young defender who came on once as a substitute last season and has started one game, at Wigan, this season.
Alberto Riera (Espanyol, 6ml).
A Spanish Under-21 winger who adapted quickly to the Premiership but returned to Spain after his six month loan.
This season's shopping list
River Plate's Colombian full-back Jairo Patino is expected to arrive short-term and fans hope Shaun Wright-Phillips could also return, possibly on loan, but manager Stuart Pearce faces a fight to keep Micah Richards and Sylvain Distin at the club. Crewe left-back Billy Jones and MK Dons striker Izale McLeod are also reported to be on Pearce's wanted list.
Manchester United
Last season
Dec 31: 2nd.
End season: 2nd.
Change: none.
Last season's January signings
Nemanda Vidic (Spartak Moscow, £7.2m).
The Serbian defender quickly adjusted to life in the Premiership.Took little time in winning his first medal, in the Carling Cup final and remains an integral member of the defence.
Patrice Evra (Monaco, £5.5m).
The left-back was also in the Carling Cup-winning side and has established himslef in the backline.
This season's shopping list
United have stolen a march on their rivals by taking Henrik Larsson on loan albeit initially for only 10 weeks. Arsenal will be more than aware that he was the man who inspired Barcelona's success in the Champions League final in Paris. Sir Alex Ferguson will be keeping a close eye on England pair Jermain Defoe (Tottenham) and Darren Bent (Charlton) but is unlikely to add much more to his squad. Owen Hargreaves would be a Red Devil if Bayern Munich were willing to part and the move is still possible. Atletico Madrid's Fernando Torres is on the wanted list but he would cost £20 million.
Middlesbrough
Last season
Dec 31: 14th.
End season: 14th.
Change: none.
Last season's January signings
None.
This season's shopping list
Major surgery is required if Gareth Southgate's first managerial season is not to end inrelegation. Last season Boro had their minds on the Uefa Cup, made no changes and did not appear harmed as a result. This time, though, the need for new blood is acute; Middlesbrough have an ever-increasing list of injuries. Replacements could also be needed for the out-of-favour midfield pair Gaizka Mendieta and Fabio Rochemback, who will probably look for a move once the window opens. Southgate is a known admirer of Reading midfielder Steven Sidwell while Preston's David Nugent would provide an added threat in attack. It is understood Middlesbrough have already agreed a fee for England central defender Jonathan Woodgate following his loan spell, though Real Madrid are understood to be considering recalling the player. Meanwhile, Hibernian midfielder Scott Brown and Paris St-Germain's Bernard Mendy are undr scrutiny. Middlesbrough are also being linked with a move for Czech goalkeeper Martin Lejsal.
Newcastle United
Last season
Dec 31: 11th.
End season: 7th.
Change: +4.
Last season's January signings
None
This season's shopping list
Last season's improvement from January until May was down more to a change in manager rather than new signings. Glenn Roeder replaced Graeme Souness, in early January and turned the club around. Roeder needs to strengthen a squad severely depleted by injures. "We have spent a fair time in Europe looking at three or four targets in those areas of the team I feel need strengthening," he said.
''We have very little strength in depth in defence and, with Michael Owen and Shola Ameobi having long-term injuries, we do not really have strength in striking roles either." Zat Knight (Fulham) and Lucas Neill (Blackburn) are potential targets while Manchester United's Alan Smith is another possible January arrival. Charlton's Darren Bent could also be lured to cover for the injured Michael Owen.
Portsmouth
Last season
Dec 31: 18th.
End season: 17th.
Change: +1.
Last season's January signings
Sean Davis, Pedro Mendes, Noe Pamarot (Tottenham, £7m).
The trio from Tottenham helped transform Portsmouth's season. Davis' tenacity in midfield and Mendes' goals, including two against Manchester City, were valuable. Pamarot started slowly but is now establishing himself.
Benjani Mwaruwari (Auxerre, £4.1m).
An ungainly striker but he has proved a valuable squad member.
Dean Kiely (Charlton, £500,000).
Discarded at the Valley but thrown straight in at Fratton Park, the goalkeeper was instrumental in helping Pompey's recovery. Now on loan at Luton.
Emmanuel Olisadebe (Panathinaikos, l).
Made two substitute appearances before returning to Greece. Ognijen Koroman (Terek Groznyi, 6ML). Made one Premiership start. Signed another loan deal in August.
Wayne Routledge (Tottenham, 6ml).
He was a regular on the bench but now on loan at Fulham.
Andreas D'Alessandro (Wolfsburg, 6ml).
Made a good impact with his box to box play and featuring in most of the games. Now with Real Zaragoza.
This season's shopping list
Backed by Sacha Gaydamak's wealth, Harry Redknapp will have money to spend in January and plans to buy 'two or three', and has been linked with Birmingham defender Matthew Upson and Preston's David Nugent.
Reading
Last season
Dec 31: 1st.
End season: 1st.
Change: none & promoted.
Last season's January signings
John Halls (Stoke, £250,000).
He made one League appearance last season in midfield and scored against his former club. Halls has made two Carling Cup appearances this season but injury has hindered him.
Aaron Brown (Tamworth, u).
Brown impressed playing for the non-Leaguers against Bournemouth in the FA Cup. After signing for Reading he was loaned to Bournemouth but this season has failed to make an impact after breaking his ankle in the summer.
This season's shopping list
With striker Dave Kitson ruled out injured, manager Steve Coppell wants additions and, particularly, a forward. American Eddie Johnson (Kansas City Wizards) and Egyptian international Amir Azmy (PAOK Salonika) have been linked with Reading. Colchester United's Greg Halford is another Coppell has been monitoring but he faces competition from other clubs including Sheffield United. Reading are also vying with Portsmouth for Ghanaian international striker John Mensah, currently with Rennes, but he may cost £6 million. They have also been linked with Boaz Myhill, the Hull goalkeeper, who is rated at £1 million.
Sheffield United
Last season
Dec 31: 2nd.
End season: 2nd.
Change: none & promoted.
Last season's January signings
Ade Akinbiyi (Burnley, £1.75m).
His form for Burnley persuaded Neil Warnock to add the physically imposing forward to his promotion-seeking side. Akinbiyi worked tirelessly and weighed in with three goals before making way for Neil Shipperley. Sadly this season has been ruined for him so far by a hamstring injury.
Sam Wedgbury (Worcester City, u).
Joined as a 16-year-old on a scholarship. Now back on loan at Worcester.
Brian Deane (Perth Glory, f).
Joined the club for the third time in January, making two substitute appearances, one a cameo role in the final game before he retired.
Bruce Dyer (Stoke, f).
Scored on his debut against Reading, but started only three games. Now at League One club Doncaster.
Garry Flitcroft (Blackburn, F).
Signed for his experience but made only three appearances before retiring at the end of the season.
Zhang Yaokun (Dalian Shide, 6ml).
Chinese international who failed to feature and is now back in China, on loan at Sichuan.
This season's shopping list
Neil Warnock will have £5 million to spend on new players, but the manager has already said he will not spend just for the sake of it. David Healy (Leeds), Greg Halford (Colchester) and David Nugent (Preston) are all targets. Some players will leave: Paul Ifill, Steve Kabba, Geoff Horsfield, Chris Lucketti, Alan Wright, Neil Shipperley and David Unsworth are all available for either on loan or permanent deals.
Tottenham Hotspur
Last season
Dec 31: 4th.
End season: 5th.
Change: -1.
Last season's January signings
Hossam Ghaly (Feyenoord, £2m).
Arrived carrying an injury and failed to make an appearance until this season but the Egyptian is now beginning to make his mark, featuring more regularly in Spurs' midfield.
Danny Murphy (Charlton, £2m).
The former Liverpool midfielder upset Charlton by claiming he was joining a bigger club when he arrived at White Hart Lane. But he spent most of the season on the bench after his arrival and remains on the fringes.
This season's shopping list
Martin Jol's determination to produce a nucleus of young English players will continue when Sunderland goalkeeper Ben Alnwick arrives in January in a deal that also sees Spurs' Martin Fulop make his loan move permanent at the Stadium of Light. In addition, Sunderland will also receive a cash payment of £1 million. Hanging on to Jermain Defoe and Robbie Keane will fill most of Jol's time, but he has in turn shown an interest in Sylvain Distin (Manchester City) and Yildiray Basturk (Hertha Berlin). West Bromwich's Curtis Davies is also attracting Spurs as is Birmingham's Matthew Upson while Adel Taarabt (Lens), available for £2.5 million, has been linked to the club.
Watford
Last season
Dec 31 (Championship): 4th.
End season: 3rd & play off winners.
Change: +1.
Last season's January signings
Marlon King (Nottingham F, £500,000).
After a loan spell, he signed permanently and continued to score goals that helped Watford go up. A knee operation has ended his season early and that could indriectly lead to Watford making the drop.
Chris Eagles (Manchester U, 6ml).
The midfielder joined Watford on loan for the second time and featured regularly before returning to Old Trafford. Now on loan at NEC Nijmegen.
This season's shopping list
Aidy Boothroyd is desperate for the window to open because he urgently needs new blood, particularly a striker, to replace King, and has been linked with a move for Manchester United's Alan Smith. "'This is a crucial period for us, not just for climbing the table but for attracting players here," Boothroyd said. "I know the money will be there and we are already making enquiries and planning for January." Keeping hold of talented winger Ashley Young could also prove difficult. James Beattie (Everton) and David Healy (Leeds) may prove too costly for Watford's budget but Sheffield United's Ade Akinbiye is a possibility while Ray Parlour, out of favour at Middlesbrough, could use his experience wisely at Vicarage Road.
West Ham United
Last season
Dec 31: 10th.
End season: 9th.
Change: +1.
Last season's January signings
Dean Ashton (Norwich, £7m rising to £7.25m).
Ashton enjoyed a marvellous spell after his arrival; his six goals were invaluable — including one in the FA Cup final — and earned him an England call-up. But a broken ankle in England training has proved more costly than could have been imagined.
Yaniv Katan (Maccabi Haifa, £100,000).
An Israeli international striker, he started only two games and then returned to Maccabi on loan, where he remains.
Lionel Scaloni (Deportivo, 6ml).
The Argentine was signed well before his more controversial compatriots Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez. He played regularly at right-back but returned to Spain in the summer and is now with Racing Santander.
This season's shopping list
With Icelandic backing from Eggert Magnusson, the transfer market is wide open for manager Alan Curbishley.They have already made enquiries for Shaun Wright-Phillips at Chelsea while Clint Dempsey, who plays in the United States for New England, is another possibility. But West Ham are not the only team watching him. The future of Nigel Reo-Coker will also be interesting; the team's captain is believed to be unsettled with Arsenal keeping a close eye on the situation.
Wigan
Last season
Dec 31: 5th.
End season: 10th.
Change: -5.
Last season's January signings
Paul Scharner (Brann, £2m).
The Austrian midfielder has been a huge success. Scharner went straight into the side and, on his debut, scored the winner in the League Cup against Arsenal. He remains a regular and invaluable to Wigan's midfield.
David Thompson (Blackburn, f).
Started six games and scored two goals but returned to Blackburn in the summer and is now at Portsmouth.
Neil Mellor (Liverpool, 6ml).
The Anfield striker scored only one goal and, after returning to Merseyside, joined Preston's quest for promotion to the Premiership.
Reto Ziegler (Tottenham, 6ml).
Signed as cover in midfield, he started five games and came on as a substitute in a further five. He is now back at Spurs but struggling to break into the first team.
This season's shopping list
Manager Paul Jewell is watching Alex, the Brazilian currently playing in Japan. Leeds' David Healy is being tracked by half of the Premiership's clubs, including Wigan who are also keen on Hibs duo Scott Brown and Kevin Thomson.
Daily Telegraph
Arsenal
Last season Dec 31: 6th.
End season: 4th.
Change: +2.
Last season's January signings
Theo Walcott (Southampton, £5m rising to £12m).
Arsene Wenger completed the anticipated capture of Walcott and, though he did not make an appearance,, he did go to the World Cup with England. Now coming into his own.
Emmanuel Adebayor (Monaco, £5m).
Little was known about the Togo striker but he scored four times in his13 appearances. He was cup-tied for European games and is now making his mark.
Vassiriki Abou Diaby (Auxerre, £3.5m rising to £6m).
Started strongly but suffered serious injury at Manchester City in early May and has not played since.
Mart Poom (Sunderland, u).
Signed as cover and remains Arsenal's third choice goalkeeper.
Jeremie Aliadiere (West Ham, ral).
His career has been affected by injuries, but he finally returned to the first team recently against Portsmouth after three years on the fringes.
This season's shopping list
Wenger has claimed he will not repeat last season's transfer spree and is happy to let youth take the lead at the Emirates. But injuries to Tomas Rosicky, Thierry Henry, William Gallas and Freddie Ljungberg have highlighted their lack of strength in depth.
Aston Villa
Last season Dec 31: 13th.
End season: 16th.
Change: -3.
Last season's January signings
None.
This season's shopping list
Martin O'Neill has admitted he is desperate to strengthen his squad in the transfer window. Celtic midfielder Stilian Petrov is O'Neill's only major signing since he took over and the Villa manager said: "We haven't got a strong enough squad and, apart from Olof Mellberg and a few others, we have a very young side." As well as signing Petrov, O'Neill has brought in free agents Chris Sutton and Didier Agathe, and signed Gabor Kiraly on loan after seeing two goalkeepers suffer injuries. He is now believed to be considering moves for West Bromwich Albion captain Curtis Davies and Manchester United defender Phil Bardsley, currently on loan at Rangers. O'Neill also ran the rule over Preston striker David Nugent at Birmingham recently but the player wants to stay and help his club's promotion push. Tottenham striker Robbie Keane is another possible arrival at around £6 million while Villa have also shown interest in QPR winger Lee Cook.
Blackburn Rovers
Last season
Dec 31: 9th.
End season: 6th.
Change: +3.
Last season's January signings
David Bentley (Arsenal, u).
The Arsenal winger, previously on loan at Norwich, had been on loan at Ewood Park and after making a positive impact, Mark Hughes was happy to sign him permanently. Bentley's continued improvement helped Blackburn win a place in the Uefa Cup and he has continued his progress this season.
Martin Olsson (Hogaborgs, n).
The teenage defender signed for a small fee following a trial but has yet to be involved in the first team.
Florent Sinama-Pongolle (Liverpool, 6ml).
Started eight League games and though he forged a good partnership with Craig Bellamy he scored only once and is now in Spain with Real Huelva.
This season's shopping list
Mark Hughes has already admitted he would be interested in signing former England captain David Beckham if he leaves Real Madrid contract, but that remains a hope. Cyprus striker Yiannakis Okkas (Olympiakos) is a player he is eyeing along with Czech midfielder Tomas Sivok (Sparta Prague). Lucas Neill could be about to depart and if Liverpool confirm their interest in the Australian defender, Dynamo Kiev's Andriy Nesmachnyi could be signed after spending a trial period at Ewood Park. Former Ewood star David Dunn could also return from Birmingham.
Bolton Wanderers
Last season
Dec 31: 7th.
End season: 8th. Change: -1.
Last season's January signings
Ali Al-Habsi (Lyn, F).
A goalkeeper from Oman, he was signed as cover and made the bench on a handful occasions last season. With Ian Walker injured, he is currently understudy to Jussi Jaaskelainen.
Matt Jansen (Blackburn, F).
Once so highly-rated, he arrived from Ewood Park trying to resurrect his career but injuries again got in the way. He started only three games and was released in the summer.
Oscar Perez (Cordoba, F).
Spanish midfielder who was a non-playing substitute once before leaving without making any impact.
This season's shopping list
With Bolton suffering an erratic season and squad numbers low, Sam Allardyce is expected to make additions. Slovenian defender Branko Ilic is on the Bolton manager's list along with midfielder Alex, the Brazilian playing in Japan for Urawa Reds. Allardyce is also believed to be monitoring French international Vikash Dhorasoo, sacked by Paris St Germain for "gross misconduct". Others prompting interest include Everton striker James Beattie and Deportivo La Coruna midfielder Aldo Duscher.
Charlton Athletic
Last season
Dec 31: 12th.
End season: 13th.
Change: -1.
Last season's January signings
Marcus Bent (Everton, £2m rising to £2.5m).
Two goals from 12 starts after his arrival did little to aid Charlton's fight to avoid relegation and this season he has been regarded as a bit-part player, particularly following the arrival of Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
This season's shopping list
There is no doubt Charlton need to make changes under new manager Alan Pardew. He is due to hold talks with former Hearts captain Steven Pressley about a move to the Valley. But the club recently had a £3 million bid for Hibernian midfielders Kevin Thomson and Scott Brown rejected. Southend striker Freddy Eastwood has also been linked with a £1.8 million move to Charlton whose scouts have also run the rule over Gillingham winger Matthew Jarvis. Costa Rican winger Christian Bolanos has been on the club's wanted list for a while even though he has work permit problems. Much could depend on whether striker Darren Bent can be retained.
Chelsea
Last season Dec 31: 1st.
End season: 1st.
Change: none.
Last season's January signings
Maniche (Dinamo Moscow, 6ml).
Brought in "just to make sure" Chelsea were up to strength. He started only three games and was sent off in one of them, against West Ham.
This season's shopping list
Anderson, Porto's Brazilian midfielder, has been constantly linked with former manager Jose Mourinho. Having spent more than £50 million in the summer, Mourinho is unlikely to make massive additions though some, including Shaun Wright-Phillips, could be on their way. David Villa (Valencia), Fernando Torres (Atletico Madrid) and Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus) have all been part of the speculation linking Chelsea with the best players in the world. Micah Richards has impressed at Manchester City and his England selection will have done his chances of a move no harm. A defender may be a priority. Mourinho said: "It was a bit risky to face the season with only three central defenders because in the past we always had Carvalho, Gallas, Terry and Robert Huth. This season, John is having a few injury problems. It means we are short of a player."
Everton
Last season
Dec 31: 16th.
End season: 11th.
Change: +5.
Last season's January signings
Alan Stubbs (Sunderland, U).
Stubbs returned to Goodison Park to strengthen a defence that was stuttering and was integral to their improvement in the second half of the season. Injury restricted his appearances. Now back and a first choice in defence.
This season's shopping list
Top of the priority list for David Moyes is a new right-back, although the manager has expressed his desire to bring in loan players rather than buying outright. Short of numbers even before recent injury worries, the club will be looking to fill a few gaps in the squad. Tomas Sivok (Sparta Prague) and Lars Jacobsen (FC Copenhagen) are among those being linked with a move to Merseyside. Ipswich striker Billy Clarke has also been tracked with view to a potential move at a cost of up to £2 million. Manchester United's Alan Smith and Derby midfielder Giles Barnes are also being watched. On his way out could be under-achieving striker James Beattie.
Fulham
Last season
Dec 31: 15th.
End season: 12th.
Change: +3.
Last season's January signings
Michael Brown (Tottenham, £1.5m).
His influence upon arrival was minimal; he was injured in his first game, missed four matches, then returned for four before being sent off, against Portsmouth.
Antti Niemi (Southampton, £1m).
Goalkeeper who arrived at a relatively cheap price but he missed eight of the final 11 games of the season through injury.
Tony Warner (Cardiff, £100,000).
Signed originally on loan, he made a good impact then signed permanently but remained as understudy to Niemi. Now on loan at Leeds.
Simon Elliott (Columbus Crew, f).
Bad luck dogged this New Zealand international. He soon established himself in midfield but injury cut short his season and now he is out for the campaign.
Wayne Bridge (Chelsea, 6ml).
England full-back who got his career back on track with a move along the King's Road. Now back at Chelsea and struggling to get a game.
This season's shopping list
Chris Coleman could face a battle to keep players — rather than sign newcomers — particularly his captain, Luis Boa Morte. American Clint Dempsey (New England) and Everton's Simon Davies are on his list. New defenders are a priority.
Liverpool
Last season
Dec 31: 3rd.
End season: 3rd.
Change: None.
Last season's January signings
Daniel Agger (Brondby, £5.8m).
Highly rated defender who made only four appearances last season but is now virtually a regular, keeping Sami Hyypia out of the team.
Paul Anderson (Hull, s).
One for the future, this midfielder was named on the bench recently when Liverpool lost 3-2 to Galatasaray in Turkey.
Jan Kromkamp (Villareal, s).
After making several appearances last season, the Dutch international wing-back was sold to PSV Eindhoven at the end of August, having played once this season.
David Martin (Milton Keynes Dons, u).
A 20-year-old goalkeeper, he has been a substitute for a handful of games this term.
Robbie Fowler (Manchester C, f).
He made a shock return to Anfield at the age of 31. He started nine League games and scored five goals. Fowler was awarded a new contract in the summer but is now used as cover.
This season's shopping list
Rafa Benitez is keen to sign a winger with Simao (Benfica) or Quaresma (Porto) potential arrivals. Matthew Upson (Birmingham) could follow Jermaine Pennant from the Midlands club. The most likely addition is Blackburn's Lucas Neill.
Manchester City
Last season
Dec 31: 8th.
End season: 15th.
Change: -7.
Last season's January signings
Georgios Samaras (Herenveen, £6m).
Having let Robbie Fowler leave, City needed a replacement and got one — at a cost — from Holland. The Greek international, the second most expensive player in the club's history, soon made an impact with a goal as a substitute against Charlton. But so far this season he has scored only two Premiership goals.
Matthew Mills (Southampton, £750,000).
A young defender who came on once as a substitute last season and has started one game, at Wigan, this season.
Alberto Riera (Espanyol, 6ml).
A Spanish Under-21 winger who adapted quickly to the Premiership but returned to Spain after his six month loan.
This season's shopping list
River Plate's Colombian full-back Jairo Patino is expected to arrive short-term and fans hope Shaun Wright-Phillips could also return, possibly on loan, but manager Stuart Pearce faces a fight to keep Micah Richards and Sylvain Distin at the club. Crewe left-back Billy Jones and MK Dons striker Izale McLeod are also reported to be on Pearce's wanted list.
Manchester United
Last season
Dec 31: 2nd.
End season: 2nd.
Change: none.
Last season's January signings
Nemanda Vidic (Spartak Moscow, £7.2m).
The Serbian defender quickly adjusted to life in the Premiership.Took little time in winning his first medal, in the Carling Cup final and remains an integral member of the defence.
Patrice Evra (Monaco, £5.5m).
The left-back was also in the Carling Cup-winning side and has established himslef in the backline.
This season's shopping list
United have stolen a march on their rivals by taking Henrik Larsson on loan albeit initially for only 10 weeks. Arsenal will be more than aware that he was the man who inspired Barcelona's success in the Champions League final in Paris. Sir Alex Ferguson will be keeping a close eye on England pair Jermain Defoe (Tottenham) and Darren Bent (Charlton) but is unlikely to add much more to his squad. Owen Hargreaves would be a Red Devil if Bayern Munich were willing to part and the move is still possible. Atletico Madrid's Fernando Torres is on the wanted list but he would cost £20 million.
Middlesbrough
Last season
Dec 31: 14th.
End season: 14th.
Change: none.
Last season's January signings
None.
This season's shopping list
Major surgery is required if Gareth Southgate's first managerial season is not to end inrelegation. Last season Boro had their minds on the Uefa Cup, made no changes and did not appear harmed as a result. This time, though, the need for new blood is acute; Middlesbrough have an ever-increasing list of injuries. Replacements could also be needed for the out-of-favour midfield pair Gaizka Mendieta and Fabio Rochemback, who will probably look for a move once the window opens. Southgate is a known admirer of Reading midfielder Steven Sidwell while Preston's David Nugent would provide an added threat in attack. It is understood Middlesbrough have already agreed a fee for England central defender Jonathan Woodgate following his loan spell, though Real Madrid are understood to be considering recalling the player. Meanwhile, Hibernian midfielder Scott Brown and Paris St-Germain's Bernard Mendy are undr scrutiny. Middlesbrough are also being linked with a move for Czech goalkeeper Martin Lejsal.
Newcastle United
Last season
Dec 31: 11th.
End season: 7th.
Change: +4.
Last season's January signings
None
This season's shopping list
Last season's improvement from January until May was down more to a change in manager rather than new signings. Glenn Roeder replaced Graeme Souness, in early January and turned the club around. Roeder needs to strengthen a squad severely depleted by injures. "We have spent a fair time in Europe looking at three or four targets in those areas of the team I feel need strengthening," he said.
''We have very little strength in depth in defence and, with Michael Owen and Shola Ameobi having long-term injuries, we do not really have strength in striking roles either." Zat Knight (Fulham) and Lucas Neill (Blackburn) are potential targets while Manchester United's Alan Smith is another possible January arrival. Charlton's Darren Bent could also be lured to cover for the injured Michael Owen.
Portsmouth
Last season
Dec 31: 18th.
End season: 17th.
Change: +1.
Last season's January signings
Sean Davis, Pedro Mendes, Noe Pamarot (Tottenham, £7m).
The trio from Tottenham helped transform Portsmouth's season. Davis' tenacity in midfield and Mendes' goals, including two against Manchester City, were valuable. Pamarot started slowly but is now establishing himself.
Benjani Mwaruwari (Auxerre, £4.1m).
An ungainly striker but he has proved a valuable squad member.
Dean Kiely (Charlton, £500,000).
Discarded at the Valley but thrown straight in at Fratton Park, the goalkeeper was instrumental in helping Pompey's recovery. Now on loan at Luton.
Emmanuel Olisadebe (Panathinaikos, l).
Made two substitute appearances before returning to Greece. Ognijen Koroman (Terek Groznyi, 6ML). Made one Premiership start. Signed another loan deal in August.
Wayne Routledge (Tottenham, 6ml).
He was a regular on the bench but now on loan at Fulham.
Andreas D'Alessandro (Wolfsburg, 6ml).
Made a good impact with his box to box play and featuring in most of the games. Now with Real Zaragoza.
This season's shopping list
Backed by Sacha Gaydamak's wealth, Harry Redknapp will have money to spend in January and plans to buy 'two or three', and has been linked with Birmingham defender Matthew Upson and Preston's David Nugent.
Reading
Last season
Dec 31: 1st.
End season: 1st.
Change: none & promoted.
Last season's January signings
John Halls (Stoke, £250,000).
He made one League appearance last season in midfield and scored against his former club. Halls has made two Carling Cup appearances this season but injury has hindered him.
Aaron Brown (Tamworth, u).
Brown impressed playing for the non-Leaguers against Bournemouth in the FA Cup. After signing for Reading he was loaned to Bournemouth but this season has failed to make an impact after breaking his ankle in the summer.
This season's shopping list
With striker Dave Kitson ruled out injured, manager Steve Coppell wants additions and, particularly, a forward. American Eddie Johnson (Kansas City Wizards) and Egyptian international Amir Azmy (PAOK Salonika) have been linked with Reading. Colchester United's Greg Halford is another Coppell has been monitoring but he faces competition from other clubs including Sheffield United. Reading are also vying with Portsmouth for Ghanaian international striker John Mensah, currently with Rennes, but he may cost £6 million. They have also been linked with Boaz Myhill, the Hull goalkeeper, who is rated at £1 million.
Sheffield United
Last season
Dec 31: 2nd.
End season: 2nd.
Change: none & promoted.
Last season's January signings
Ade Akinbiyi (Burnley, £1.75m).
His form for Burnley persuaded Neil Warnock to add the physically imposing forward to his promotion-seeking side. Akinbiyi worked tirelessly and weighed in with three goals before making way for Neil Shipperley. Sadly this season has been ruined for him so far by a hamstring injury.
Sam Wedgbury (Worcester City, u).
Joined as a 16-year-old on a scholarship. Now back on loan at Worcester.
Brian Deane (Perth Glory, f).
Joined the club for the third time in January, making two substitute appearances, one a cameo role in the final game before he retired.
Bruce Dyer (Stoke, f).
Scored on his debut against Reading, but started only three games. Now at League One club Doncaster.
Garry Flitcroft (Blackburn, F).
Signed for his experience but made only three appearances before retiring at the end of the season.
Zhang Yaokun (Dalian Shide, 6ml).
Chinese international who failed to feature and is now back in China, on loan at Sichuan.
This season's shopping list
Neil Warnock will have £5 million to spend on new players, but the manager has already said he will not spend just for the sake of it. David Healy (Leeds), Greg Halford (Colchester) and David Nugent (Preston) are all targets. Some players will leave: Paul Ifill, Steve Kabba, Geoff Horsfield, Chris Lucketti, Alan Wright, Neil Shipperley and David Unsworth are all available for either on loan or permanent deals.
Tottenham Hotspur
Last season
Dec 31: 4th.
End season: 5th.
Change: -1.
Last season's January signings
Hossam Ghaly (Feyenoord, £2m).
Arrived carrying an injury and failed to make an appearance until this season but the Egyptian is now beginning to make his mark, featuring more regularly in Spurs' midfield.
Danny Murphy (Charlton, £2m).
The former Liverpool midfielder upset Charlton by claiming he was joining a bigger club when he arrived at White Hart Lane. But he spent most of the season on the bench after his arrival and remains on the fringes.
This season's shopping list
Martin Jol's determination to produce a nucleus of young English players will continue when Sunderland goalkeeper Ben Alnwick arrives in January in a deal that also sees Spurs' Martin Fulop make his loan move permanent at the Stadium of Light. In addition, Sunderland will also receive a cash payment of £1 million. Hanging on to Jermain Defoe and Robbie Keane will fill most of Jol's time, but he has in turn shown an interest in Sylvain Distin (Manchester City) and Yildiray Basturk (Hertha Berlin). West Bromwich's Curtis Davies is also attracting Spurs as is Birmingham's Matthew Upson while Adel Taarabt (Lens), available for £2.5 million, has been linked to the club.
Watford
Last season
Dec 31 (Championship): 4th.
End season: 3rd & play off winners.
Change: +1.
Last season's January signings
Marlon King (Nottingham F, £500,000).
After a loan spell, he signed permanently and continued to score goals that helped Watford go up. A knee operation has ended his season early and that could indriectly lead to Watford making the drop.
Chris Eagles (Manchester U, 6ml).
The midfielder joined Watford on loan for the second time and featured regularly before returning to Old Trafford. Now on loan at NEC Nijmegen.
This season's shopping list
Aidy Boothroyd is desperate for the window to open because he urgently needs new blood, particularly a striker, to replace King, and has been linked with a move for Manchester United's Alan Smith. "'This is a crucial period for us, not just for climbing the table but for attracting players here," Boothroyd said. "I know the money will be there and we are already making enquiries and planning for January." Keeping hold of talented winger Ashley Young could also prove difficult. James Beattie (Everton) and David Healy (Leeds) may prove too costly for Watford's budget but Sheffield United's Ade Akinbiye is a possibility while Ray Parlour, out of favour at Middlesbrough, could use his experience wisely at Vicarage Road.
West Ham United
Last season
Dec 31: 10th.
End season: 9th.
Change: +1.
Last season's January signings
Dean Ashton (Norwich, £7m rising to £7.25m).
Ashton enjoyed a marvellous spell after his arrival; his six goals were invaluable — including one in the FA Cup final — and earned him an England call-up. But a broken ankle in England training has proved more costly than could have been imagined.
Yaniv Katan (Maccabi Haifa, £100,000).
An Israeli international striker, he started only two games and then returned to Maccabi on loan, where he remains.
Lionel Scaloni (Deportivo, 6ml).
The Argentine was signed well before his more controversial compatriots Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez. He played regularly at right-back but returned to Spain in the summer and is now with Racing Santander.
This season's shopping list
With Icelandic backing from Eggert Magnusson, the transfer market is wide open for manager Alan Curbishley.They have already made enquiries for Shaun Wright-Phillips at Chelsea while Clint Dempsey, who plays in the United States for New England, is another possibility. But West Ham are not the only team watching him. The future of Nigel Reo-Coker will also be interesting; the team's captain is believed to be unsettled with Arsenal keeping a close eye on the situation.
Wigan
Last season
Dec 31: 5th.
End season: 10th.
Change: -5.
Last season's January signings
Paul Scharner (Brann, £2m).
The Austrian midfielder has been a huge success. Scharner went straight into the side and, on his debut, scored the winner in the League Cup against Arsenal. He remains a regular and invaluable to Wigan's midfield.
David Thompson (Blackburn, f).
Started six games and scored two goals but returned to Blackburn in the summer and is now at Portsmouth.
Neil Mellor (Liverpool, 6ml).
The Anfield striker scored only one goal and, after returning to Merseyside, joined Preston's quest for promotion to the Premiership.
Reto Ziegler (Tottenham, 6ml).
Signed as cover in midfield, he started five games and came on as a substitute in a further five. He is now back at Spurs but struggling to break into the first team.
This season's shopping list
Manager Paul Jewell is watching Alex, the Brazilian currently playing in Japan. Leeds' David Healy is being tracked by half of the Premiership's clubs, including Wigan who are also keen on Hibs duo Scott Brown and Kevin Thomson.
Daily Telegraph
Liverpool will reportedly sell Peter Crouch to Newcastle for £12million if they can find a replacement.
According to Friday's press, Toon boss Glenn Roeder sees England hitman Crouch as the perfect signing to boost his injury-hit strikeforce.
And the tabloid also claims Liverpool chiefs now admit they are ready to let their 6ft 7in striker go - but have warned they first need to land long-term target David Villa from Spaniards Valencia for a whopping £22million.
And if that bid fails, Kop boss Rafa Benitez will need to look elsewhere for a replacement.
Crouch, 25, only signed from Southampton in a £7million deal 18 months ago but it is understood he would be prepared to sign for Newcastle.
Meanwhile, West Ham's Argentine misfit Javier Mascherano hopes to bend FIFA rules to join Liverpool next month.
Juventus also want the midfielder, who has been frozen out at Upton Park since October.
But Mascherano, 22, has already played for Hammers and Brazilian outfit Corinthians this season - and rules say he cannot join a third club.:sick:
FOX Sports
According to Friday's press, Toon boss Glenn Roeder sees England hitman Crouch as the perfect signing to boost his injury-hit strikeforce.
And the tabloid also claims Liverpool chiefs now admit they are ready to let their 6ft 7in striker go - but have warned they first need to land long-term target David Villa from Spaniards Valencia for a whopping £22million.
And if that bid fails, Kop boss Rafa Benitez will need to look elsewhere for a replacement.
Crouch, 25, only signed from Southampton in a £7million deal 18 months ago but it is understood he would be prepared to sign for Newcastle.
Meanwhile, West Ham's Argentine misfit Javier Mascherano hopes to bend FIFA rules to join Liverpool next month.
Juventus also want the midfielder, who has been frozen out at Upton Park since October.
But Mascherano, 22, has already played for Hammers and Brazilian outfit Corinthians this season - and rules say he cannot join a third club.:sick:
FOX Sports
Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder has played down his chances of landing England striker Peter Crouch in the January transfer window.
Reports on Friday suggested the Magpies are ready to launch a £12million bid for the 6ft 7in Liverpool forward and although Roeder has an interest in Crouch he played down the speculation.
He said: "Someone knows more than I do. As far as I am concerned, there has not been a deal even spoken about.
"Secondly, I really hate managers talking about other managers' players.
"Peter Crouch is a Liverpool player and I do not think Rafael Benitez would appreciate me talking about Peter Crouch when he is not a Newcastle player.
"At this moment in time, it is pure speculation and I would be surprised if he ended up becoming a Newcastle player.
"I said a month ago when I was asked, he is very talented and certainly deserves his place in the England team, in my opinion.
"But anything outside that would be unfair to Liverpool and the manager there."
Roeder is in the market for a striker with Michael Owen and Shola Ameobi injured and loan signing Giuseppe Rossi on his way back to Manchester United:thumbs: after Saturday's Barclays Premiership trip to Everton.
It is understood Crouch is one a list of potential targets, although with cash at a premium at St James' Park it is unlikely he would be able to invest at the suggested level.
Chairman Freddy Shepherd found £15million during the summer to land Obafemi Martins and Damien Duff despite having seen Roeder's predecessor Graeme Souness invest a staggering £50million during his brief but ill-fated reign.
With defensive reinforcements also a priority the club's transfer kitty is likely to have to be spread rather thinly.:superhapp
Sporting Life
Reports on Friday suggested the Magpies are ready to launch a £12million bid for the 6ft 7in Liverpool forward and although Roeder has an interest in Crouch he played down the speculation.
He said: "Someone knows more than I do. As far as I am concerned, there has not been a deal even spoken about.
"Secondly, I really hate managers talking about other managers' players.
"Peter Crouch is a Liverpool player and I do not think Rafael Benitez would appreciate me talking about Peter Crouch when he is not a Newcastle player.
"At this moment in time, it is pure speculation and I would be surprised if he ended up becoming a Newcastle player.
"I said a month ago when I was asked, he is very talented and certainly deserves his place in the England team, in my opinion.
"But anything outside that would be unfair to Liverpool and the manager there."
Roeder is in the market for a striker with Michael Owen and Shola Ameobi injured and loan signing Giuseppe Rossi on his way back to Manchester United:thumbs: after Saturday's Barclays Premiership trip to Everton.
It is understood Crouch is one a list of potential targets, although with cash at a premium at St James' Park it is unlikely he would be able to invest at the suggested level.
Chairman Freddy Shepherd found £15million during the summer to land Obafemi Martins and Damien Duff despite having seen Roeder's predecessor Graeme Souness invest a staggering £50million during his brief but ill-fated reign.
With defensive reinforcements also a priority the club's transfer kitty is likely to have to be spread rather thinly.:superhapp
Sporting Life
Charlton look to China
BEIJING: China captain Zheng Zhi is moving to English Premier League club Charlton Athletic, local media reported today.
The 26-year-old Shandong midfielder will be loaned to Charlton for the rest of this season before completing a formal transfer, the Titan Sports newspaper said.
Konchesky and Barton suspended
LONDON: Premiership footballers Paul Konchesky and Joey Barton will miss this weekend's matches after having appeals against the red cards they each received during the last round of fixtures rejected by the Football Association here yesterday.
A hearing found Konchesky was correctly dismissed for a second bookable offence when he brought down Fulham forward Wayne Routledge, during West Ham's goalless draw at Craven Cottage.
Bury appeal rejected
LONDON: Bury's appeal against their expulsion from the FA Cup for fielding an ineligible player in the second round was rejected by the Football Association yesterday.
They were punished for playing on-loan Hartlepool midfielder Stephen Turnbull in their second-round replay win over Chester.
The FA reinstated Chester, who are set to face Ipswich Town in the third round on January 6.
Ashton comeback on hold
LONDON: West Ham United striker Dean Ashton may not return to first team action for another two months, having hoped to make a comeback soon, new manager Alan Curbishley said yesterday.
Ashton suffered a broken ankle on the eve of winning his first cap for England against Greece in August following a training ground collision with Shaun Wright-Phillips.:lick:
Daily News
BEIJING: China captain Zheng Zhi is moving to English Premier League club Charlton Athletic, local media reported today.
The 26-year-old Shandong midfielder will be loaned to Charlton for the rest of this season before completing a formal transfer, the Titan Sports newspaper said.
Konchesky and Barton suspended
LONDON: Premiership footballers Paul Konchesky and Joey Barton will miss this weekend's matches after having appeals against the red cards they each received during the last round of fixtures rejected by the Football Association here yesterday.
A hearing found Konchesky was correctly dismissed for a second bookable offence when he brought down Fulham forward Wayne Routledge, during West Ham's goalless draw at Craven Cottage.
Bury appeal rejected
LONDON: Bury's appeal against their expulsion from the FA Cup for fielding an ineligible player in the second round was rejected by the Football Association yesterday.
They were punished for playing on-loan Hartlepool midfielder Stephen Turnbull in their second-round replay win over Chester.
The FA reinstated Chester, who are set to face Ipswich Town in the third round on January 6.
Ashton comeback on hold
LONDON: West Ham United striker Dean Ashton may not return to first team action for another two months, having hoped to make a comeback soon, new manager Alan Curbishley said yesterday.
Ashton suffered a broken ankle on the eve of winning his first cap for England against Greece in August following a training ground collision with Shaun Wright-Phillips.:lick:
Daily News
WHAT THE PAPERS SAY:
Crouch - could be leaving Anfield.
THE SUN: Liverpool will sell striker Peter Crouch to Newcastle for £12million - but insist they need a replacement first. Toon boss Glenn Roeder wants the England star to boost his injury-hit frontline. Kop chiefs now admit they are ready to let Crouch go - but have warned they must first land long-term target David Villa from Spanish outfit Valencia for £22million. Also: Joe Cole could need surgery to save his season as it was feared Chelsea skipper John Terry faces up to six weeks out...Steve Coppell has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as the best player in the world.
DAILY MIRROR: John Terry is aiming at a remarkable return to action in just eight days after undergoing back surgery last night. The England skipper was recovering in Bordeaux after the 30-minute keyhole operation. But Terry, who will fly back to London today, hopes to be back running by Monday and could even declare himself fit to play in the FA Cup third round clash with Macclesfield on January 6. Also: Liverpool are shock contenders to sign unhappy West Ham midfielder Javier Mascherano.:nervous: ..Everton striker Andy Johnson is ``sick'' of being branded a diver.
DAILY MAIL: Shaun Wright-Phillips last night emerged as a central figure in Chelsea's pursuit of England defender Micah Richards after the Stamford Bridge misfit revealed he would consider a move back to Manchester City. City manager Stuart Pearce last night sought to play down the champions' interest in Richards and claimed that to sell the 18-year-old in the January transfer window would `sound the death knell' for the club. Also: Fabio Rochemback's unhappy spell at Middlesbrough is likely to end next month following an outspoken attack on the club by his father.
DAILY EXPRESS: England captain John Terry hopes to be back playing for Chelsea next weekend, nine days after groundbreaking keyhole surgery on his spine. The plan is that Terry, 26, will be back running this afternoon after jetting in from Bordeaux, France, where the half-hour operation took place. Pioneering surgeon Jean Destandau used a tiny fibre-optic camera to remove a fragment of intevertebral disc the size of a thumbnail. Also: Javier Mascherano could be handed an unexpected chance to prove himself in the Premiership after Liverpool:skull: joined Juventus in the chase for his signature...Stuart Pearce has hinted he would consider quitting if Micah Richards is sold to Chelsea against his wishes.
DAILY STAR: Chelsea and Manchester United:cheesy: could end up facing each other in a winner-takes-all title decider in the final week of the season. The prospect of the Premiership title race going right down to the wire at Stamford Bridge could become a reality if either club is involved in the FA Cup semi-finals. Sir Alex Ferguson's team are scheduled to visit Chelsea on Saturday April 14 - but that is the day one of the weekend in which the last four in the FA Cup will play. Also: Tim Cahill is ready to boost Everton's push for Europe after making a quick return from a knee injury...Matthew Upson has promised manager Steve Bruce that he will not wreck Birmingham's promotion push by agitating for a transfer.
THE TIMES: Andrew Flintoff has insisted that the pressure of leadership is not responsible for his drop in form through the Ashes series, but, as he tries to avoid becoming the first England captain since 1920-21 to suffer a 5-0 whitewash against Australia, he knows that the final Test in Sydney next week could be his last at the helm.
DAILY TELEGRAPH: England's three-day crushing by Australia in the fourth Test at Melbourne places them in grave danger of conceding only the second 5-0 whitewash in Ashes history and ninth of all time.
THE INDEPENDENT: Liverpool are understood to be preparing to sell Peter Crouch - and want to sign Valencia's David Villa as the England striker's replacement. The moves, which would cost a combined total of more than £40million, could come as part of what is being predicted as the busiest January transfer window since the system was introduced four years ago. There are a number of stumbling blocks to any deal, however. Although Crouch is wanted by Newcastle United, they may not be prepared to meet Liverpool's £12million valuation.
THE GUARDIAN: England's disastrous Ashes campaign has left Andrew Flintoff close to exhaustion.:dontcare:
SportingLife.com
Crouch - could be leaving Anfield.
THE SUN: Liverpool will sell striker Peter Crouch to Newcastle for £12million - but insist they need a replacement first. Toon boss Glenn Roeder wants the England star to boost his injury-hit frontline. Kop chiefs now admit they are ready to let Crouch go - but have warned they must first land long-term target David Villa from Spanish outfit Valencia for £22million. Also: Joe Cole could need surgery to save his season as it was feared Chelsea skipper John Terry faces up to six weeks out...Steve Coppell has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as the best player in the world.
DAILY MIRROR: John Terry is aiming at a remarkable return to action in just eight days after undergoing back surgery last night. The England skipper was recovering in Bordeaux after the 30-minute keyhole operation. But Terry, who will fly back to London today, hopes to be back running by Monday and could even declare himself fit to play in the FA Cup third round clash with Macclesfield on January 6. Also: Liverpool are shock contenders to sign unhappy West Ham midfielder Javier Mascherano.:nervous: ..Everton striker Andy Johnson is ``sick'' of being branded a diver.
DAILY MAIL: Shaun Wright-Phillips last night emerged as a central figure in Chelsea's pursuit of England defender Micah Richards after the Stamford Bridge misfit revealed he would consider a move back to Manchester City. City manager Stuart Pearce last night sought to play down the champions' interest in Richards and claimed that to sell the 18-year-old in the January transfer window would `sound the death knell' for the club. Also: Fabio Rochemback's unhappy spell at Middlesbrough is likely to end next month following an outspoken attack on the club by his father.
DAILY EXPRESS: England captain John Terry hopes to be back playing for Chelsea next weekend, nine days after groundbreaking keyhole surgery on his spine. The plan is that Terry, 26, will be back running this afternoon after jetting in from Bordeaux, France, where the half-hour operation took place. Pioneering surgeon Jean Destandau used a tiny fibre-optic camera to remove a fragment of intevertebral disc the size of a thumbnail. Also: Javier Mascherano could be handed an unexpected chance to prove himself in the Premiership after Liverpool:skull: joined Juventus in the chase for his signature...Stuart Pearce has hinted he would consider quitting if Micah Richards is sold to Chelsea against his wishes.
DAILY STAR: Chelsea and Manchester United:cheesy: could end up facing each other in a winner-takes-all title decider in the final week of the season. The prospect of the Premiership title race going right down to the wire at Stamford Bridge could become a reality if either club is involved in the FA Cup semi-finals. Sir Alex Ferguson's team are scheduled to visit Chelsea on Saturday April 14 - but that is the day one of the weekend in which the last four in the FA Cup will play. Also: Tim Cahill is ready to boost Everton's push for Europe after making a quick return from a knee injury...Matthew Upson has promised manager Steve Bruce that he will not wreck Birmingham's promotion push by agitating for a transfer.
THE TIMES: Andrew Flintoff has insisted that the pressure of leadership is not responsible for his drop in form through the Ashes series, but, as he tries to avoid becoming the first England captain since 1920-21 to suffer a 5-0 whitewash against Australia, he knows that the final Test in Sydney next week could be his last at the helm.
DAILY TELEGRAPH: England's three-day crushing by Australia in the fourth Test at Melbourne places them in grave danger of conceding only the second 5-0 whitewash in Ashes history and ninth of all time.
THE INDEPENDENT: Liverpool are understood to be preparing to sell Peter Crouch - and want to sign Valencia's David Villa as the England striker's replacement. The moves, which would cost a combined total of more than £40million, could come as part of what is being predicted as the busiest January transfer window since the system was introduced four years ago. There are a number of stumbling blocks to any deal, however. Although Crouch is wanted by Newcastle United, they may not be prepared to meet Liverpool's £12million valuation.
THE GUARDIAN: England's disastrous Ashes campaign has left Andrew Flintoff close to exhaustion.:dontcare:
SportingLife.com
Silly season is kicking in again ahead of the re-opening of the transfer window on Monday, and thanks to the investment moves from DIC Liverpool are set to be victims of the silliest rumours.
The Times decided to produce a handy little table of their transfer guesses. They say we need a "a world-class striker and a right back" after pointing out that we also "want" the takeover to go through so that Rafa gets a big transfer "war chest". Their guesses for players coming in are Lucas Neill (hardly a secret) and the Livorno 'keeper Marco Amelia. They do point out that Rafa's not - in their opinion - going to be given more than £5million because the takeover is unlikely to be complete in time, but also say "Peter Crouch has attracted interest from Newcastle United while Stephen Warnock could join Blackburn". No fees were mentioned.:groan:
The Independent's Jason Burt guesses slightly differently. He says Crouch is being offered to Newcastle for £12million, but that Newcastle want to only pay half of that amount. There's no doubting Newcastle want Crouch, and there's no doubting that clubs do a lot of transfer dealing through the press, but it does seem that Mr Burt has got these figures all by himself. As for whether Liverpool are prepared to sell Crouch in January, leaving themselves with two performing strikers and a Robbie Fowler who's been struggling to get into the team for various reasons, well that's pushing things a little. Mr Burt's thought of that though - he says Liverpool are going to spend £25million on David Villa. Quite where Rafa is going to get that sort of money from remains to be seen. Valencia are still in the Champions League anyway, and aren't going to be in much of a hurry to sell Villa - who would be cup-tied for the Reds in Europe too. The Independent's story smacks of wishful thinking from the Newcastle side of things.:doh:
Crouch is Liverpool's top scorer, but those who criticised him at the start of his career at the club but went quiet as he started to produce are back out and complaining again. Rafa Benitez's words are twisted as ever, his complaints about missed chances by Crouch weren't actually complaints that Crouch isn't good enough. The media enjoy finding a player who's not getting as many games as he'd like, and despite being obsessed with Rafa's rotation policy for most of this season they conveniently forget about rotation if they can make a big deal of a player not playing in every game. That's not to say Rafa might be looking to replace Crouch, just that the media are making too many assumptions.:boxing:
Liverpool haven't got the money to buy David Villa before selling Peter Crouch, and Rafa isn't likely to gamble on being able to sell Crouch and then buy Villa in the space of a few weeks. Love him or hate him, Crouch isn't likely to leave in January. It seems that Newcastle are driving this story, although of course we'll never know this for sure. As for David Villa - quotes attributed to him in the past saying he didn't want to play in England were fake. He's never said he doesn't want to play in England, or for Liverpool. That doesn't mean to say he will be arriving next week, just that those quotes shouldn't be used to assume he won't ever arrive.:greed:
When looking at Liverpool's squad lists to help come up with transfer stories Stephen Warnock's name stands out. Blackburn wanted to take him in part exchange for Lucas Neill in the summer but Liverpool laughed at their suggestion. Unfortunately for Warnock he's suffered a few injuries this season and has rarely played. The minor detail of him not being fit enough to play gets glossed over though, and so we're left thinking Warnock's fed up and looking to move. The Guardian say that Newcastle are interested in the 25-year-old, and they say £1.5million would secure his services. Elsewhere the stories seem to be that Liverpool are going to offer the player to Blackburn in part exchange for Lucas Neill.
Warnock may well be starting to feel unhappy at the club, but considering he was happy to stay when interviewed shortly after the closure of the summer window, and considering he's not been fit to appear much this season, it does seem to be that conclusions are being drawn incorrectly. John Arne Riise has had a poor season in the eyes of many people, but with Aurelio and Warnock unavailable for much of the time he's been able to keep his place - he's had no competition for his place. Lucas Neill is being pursued as cover mainly for the right-back berth, so Warnock's departure would seem to leave Liverpool still too short of cover.
Meanwhile the Mirror have decided to link
Liverpool with West Ham's Argentine misfit Javier Mascherano. Under their silly-season headline "EXCLUSIVE FOOTBALL SPY" the Mirror's Darren Lewis claims Liverpool are "shock contenders" to sign the midfielder for £6million. The 22-year-old's representatives have been talking to Juventus according to the article but now Liverpool have stepped in showing an interest. The writer does remember that FIFA regulations mean he can't play for another club this season, having also appeared for Corinthians, but "Mirror Sport understands his representatives MSI are 'totally unconcerned' by the ruling". According to the Mirror the player's new club would apply for "special dispensation". The article's credibility falls down in the last sentence: "The Kop deal depends on the sale of the club to a Dubai-based consortium". In other words, we've got a great get-out clause if this fails to happen. We can say it's because Liverpool didn't have enough money (if the takeover fails) or blame it on DIC's money making Rafa change his targets. Easy.
Earlier this week the Mirror were talking of Xabi Alonso's imminent departure to Atletico Madrid for £14million if the Spanish side got their way. Xabi Alonso is worth far more than £14million to Liverpool right now, and unless the player himself was begging to be allowed to leave for home-sickness reasons there's no way Rafa would even consider an offer for him. Liverpool don't sell players just to try and make a profit, unless the player is clearly trying to run down his contract or has made it clear he wants to leave.:strong:
There will be many more stories to come over the next few weeks. "Le Gems", Florent Sinama Pongolle and Anthony le Tallec are both out on loan and unlikely to come back to Anfield again, Liverpool would accept any decent offer for either of those. Salif Diao's loan move to Stoke officially expires in the January window - Stoke fans have (surprisingly) taken to him and would love him to stay, but has he done enough to earn a permanent move somewhere? Gabriel Paletta was linked by the Liverpool Echo as possibly joining Diao on loan in Spain for the second half of the season, the club in question being bottom-of-the-table Gimnastic.:rolleyes2
Watch out for Djibril Cisse's loan move being made permanent too in the transfer window - if it is then Rafa Benitez is likely to be given a small amount of extra money if he needs it.
Anfield Road
The Times decided to produce a handy little table of their transfer guesses. They say we need a "a world-class striker and a right back" after pointing out that we also "want" the takeover to go through so that Rafa gets a big transfer "war chest". Their guesses for players coming in are Lucas Neill (hardly a secret) and the Livorno 'keeper Marco Amelia. They do point out that Rafa's not - in their opinion - going to be given more than £5million because the takeover is unlikely to be complete in time, but also say "Peter Crouch has attracted interest from Newcastle United while Stephen Warnock could join Blackburn". No fees were mentioned.:groan:
The Independent's Jason Burt guesses slightly differently. He says Crouch is being offered to Newcastle for £12million, but that Newcastle want to only pay half of that amount. There's no doubting Newcastle want Crouch, and there's no doubting that clubs do a lot of transfer dealing through the press, but it does seem that Mr Burt has got these figures all by himself. As for whether Liverpool are prepared to sell Crouch in January, leaving themselves with two performing strikers and a Robbie Fowler who's been struggling to get into the team for various reasons, well that's pushing things a little. Mr Burt's thought of that though - he says Liverpool are going to spend £25million on David Villa. Quite where Rafa is going to get that sort of money from remains to be seen. Valencia are still in the Champions League anyway, and aren't going to be in much of a hurry to sell Villa - who would be cup-tied for the Reds in Europe too. The Independent's story smacks of wishful thinking from the Newcastle side of things.:doh:
Crouch is Liverpool's top scorer, but those who criticised him at the start of his career at the club but went quiet as he started to produce are back out and complaining again. Rafa Benitez's words are twisted as ever, his complaints about missed chances by Crouch weren't actually complaints that Crouch isn't good enough. The media enjoy finding a player who's not getting as many games as he'd like, and despite being obsessed with Rafa's rotation policy for most of this season they conveniently forget about rotation if they can make a big deal of a player not playing in every game. That's not to say Rafa might be looking to replace Crouch, just that the media are making too many assumptions.:boxing:
Liverpool haven't got the money to buy David Villa before selling Peter Crouch, and Rafa isn't likely to gamble on being able to sell Crouch and then buy Villa in the space of a few weeks. Love him or hate him, Crouch isn't likely to leave in January. It seems that Newcastle are driving this story, although of course we'll never know this for sure. As for David Villa - quotes attributed to him in the past saying he didn't want to play in England were fake. He's never said he doesn't want to play in England, or for Liverpool. That doesn't mean to say he will be arriving next week, just that those quotes shouldn't be used to assume he won't ever arrive.:greed:
When looking at Liverpool's squad lists to help come up with transfer stories Stephen Warnock's name stands out. Blackburn wanted to take him in part exchange for Lucas Neill in the summer but Liverpool laughed at their suggestion. Unfortunately for Warnock he's suffered a few injuries this season and has rarely played. The minor detail of him not being fit enough to play gets glossed over though, and so we're left thinking Warnock's fed up and looking to move. The Guardian say that Newcastle are interested in the 25-year-old, and they say £1.5million would secure his services. Elsewhere the stories seem to be that Liverpool are going to offer the player to Blackburn in part exchange for Lucas Neill.
Warnock may well be starting to feel unhappy at the club, but considering he was happy to stay when interviewed shortly after the closure of the summer window, and considering he's not been fit to appear much this season, it does seem to be that conclusions are being drawn incorrectly. John Arne Riise has had a poor season in the eyes of many people, but with Aurelio and Warnock unavailable for much of the time he's been able to keep his place - he's had no competition for his place. Lucas Neill is being pursued as cover mainly for the right-back berth, so Warnock's departure would seem to leave Liverpool still too short of cover.
Meanwhile the Mirror have decided to link
Liverpool with West Ham's Argentine misfit Javier Mascherano. Under their silly-season headline "EXCLUSIVE FOOTBALL SPY" the Mirror's Darren Lewis claims Liverpool are "shock contenders" to sign the midfielder for £6million. The 22-year-old's representatives have been talking to Juventus according to the article but now Liverpool have stepped in showing an interest. The writer does remember that FIFA regulations mean he can't play for another club this season, having also appeared for Corinthians, but "Mirror Sport understands his representatives MSI are 'totally unconcerned' by the ruling". According to the Mirror the player's new club would apply for "special dispensation". The article's credibility falls down in the last sentence: "The Kop deal depends on the sale of the club to a Dubai-based consortium". In other words, we've got a great get-out clause if this fails to happen. We can say it's because Liverpool didn't have enough money (if the takeover fails) or blame it on DIC's money making Rafa change his targets. Easy.Earlier this week the Mirror were talking of Xabi Alonso's imminent departure to Atletico Madrid for £14million if the Spanish side got their way. Xabi Alonso is worth far more than £14million to Liverpool right now, and unless the player himself was begging to be allowed to leave for home-sickness reasons there's no way Rafa would even consider an offer for him. Liverpool don't sell players just to try and make a profit, unless the player is clearly trying to run down his contract or has made it clear he wants to leave.:strong:
There will be many more stories to come over the next few weeks. "Le Gems", Florent Sinama Pongolle and Anthony le Tallec are both out on loan and unlikely to come back to Anfield again, Liverpool would accept any decent offer for either of those. Salif Diao's loan move to Stoke officially expires in the January window - Stoke fans have (surprisingly) taken to him and would love him to stay, but has he done enough to earn a permanent move somewhere? Gabriel Paletta was linked by the Liverpool Echo as possibly joining Diao on loan in Spain for the second half of the season, the club in question being bottom-of-the-table Gimnastic.:rolleyes2
Watch out for Djibril Cisse's loan move being made permanent too in the transfer window - if it is then Rafa Benitez is likely to be given a small amount of extra money if he needs it.
Anfield Road