Football Corner

According to the Setanta Sports website, Barcelona midfielder Deco is keen on a move to Premier League champions Manchester United.

The Portuguese midfielder is set to leave the Spanish side in the summer and he has hinted that he would love to join the Old Trafford club.

Deco has been out of favour at the Camp Nou and it doesn't look like that is going to change with Frank Rijkaard at the helm.

“If we don’t win anything this year I will be off,” he said in The News of the World.

“Playing for Barcelona is a dream that I have realised.

“This is my fourth season and has been a fantastic period in my career but if things don’t go well I will be leaving.

“The English league is somewhere I’d like to play, and you can compare Manchester United to Barcelona.”

I would really like to see Deco in the Premier League even though he hasn't been in great form in recent months. He's a quality player and I have no doubt Alex Ferguson would take him if the opportunity arouse.

Watford striker Marlon King is apparently a target for London club Fulham according to today's Sunday People.

New Fulham boss Roy Hodgson has been handed £15 million to spend in the January transfer window and he is apparently very keen on bringing King to Craven Cottage.

Fulham have been without top striker Brian McBride for some time now and Hodgson is keen to add more fire power to his strike force in January.

It is believed Fulham will have to cough up at least £3.5 million in the January transfer window and I feel if the Cottagers were to sign King they would rapidly steer clear of the drop zone.

Sheffield united are amongst the clubs targeting Aston Villa defender, Gary Cahill in the January transfer window according to reports in the Daily Mirror today. Sunderland and Wigan are also in contention to sign the 22 year old.

I would just like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Over the next two days or so their will be a significant drop in the number of post at Football Corner but make sure to come back on Boxing Day and we will be back in the swing of things!

West Ham are supposedly set to sign Derby prodigy, Giles Barnes in the January transfer window according to reports in The Sun today.

Holland and Hamburg midfielder Rafael Van der Vaart is considering a move to Serie A side Juventus. According to Sky Sports the free kick specialist is "interested" in the move.

It has been widely speculated today that Barcelona are to bid for Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb.

It is speculated that Barca are to bid as much as £15 million for the 26-year old who has been a vital force in Arsenal's fantastic start to the Premier League which sees Arsenal ly 1st.

Hleb is apparently been lined up as a replacement to Barca's Portuguese international Deco. I would be very surprised to see Arsene Wenger let Hleb go because he is a quality player.

Hleb signed for the Gunners back in 2005 and has made over 70 appearances for the North London club scoring 7 goals in the process. I think if Arsenal were to let Hleb go they would be making a big mistake.

Inter have asked City to name whatever price they want for Brazilian midfielder, Elano according to reports in the News of the World today.

Manchester United have today kept the pressure on Arsenal after a 2-1 victory at home to Everton. United went into the game knowing they wouldn't be at the top of the Premier League for this Christmas and they were keen to move to within a point of the Gunners.

The game kicked-off with both sides sloppily giving away possession and neither side created many good chances in the opening exchanges. The game really needed a goal, a piece of magic and that came in the shape of Cristiano Ronaldo.

His cross-field pass to Carlos Tevez was given straight back to him by the Argentine and Ronaldo shifted it to the left and strook an unstoppable shot that caught a slight deflection off Lee Carsley.

The goal brought the game to life and Everton equalised soon after when Steve Pienaar struck a beautiful left-footed cross onto the head of Tim Cahill and he duly finished to leave the sides level going into the break.

The second-half saw United pushing for a second goal but Everton held out extremely well until Pienaar stupidly brought down Giggs in the box. Referee Howard Webb had no other option but to point to the spot and Ronaldo stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way to send the United fans home happy.

I was impressed with Everton today and it was a real shame that one player had to ruin it for them. Pienaar has been terrific since arriving at Goodison in the summer but unfortunately today he just made a poor decision. Good result for United and that definitely sets us up for a tasty Christmas.

Graeme Souness is keen on replacing Lawrie Sanchez as Fulham boss according to the Sunday Express. No this time were not joking !!!!

Liverpool could be set to make an approach for Real Madrid star Gabriel Heinze in the January transfer window according to reports in The People today.

Liverpool are supposedly close to signing Fiorentina defender Tomas Ujfalusi according to reports in the News of the World today. However the Merseysiders cannot complete the signing of the Czech international until the opening of the January transfer window.

According to today's News of the World, Valencia striker David Silva is a January transfer target for both Chelsea and Liverpool.

The attacking midfielder is apparently unsettled at the club and he is apparently keen to leave the Mestalla as soon as possible.

The 21-year old only signed a new seven-year deal at the club in June yet since the arrival of Ronald Koeman at the club things seemed to of changed.

Valencia currently ly 7th in the league, a massive twelve points behind leaders Real Madrid already. Silva was strongly linked with a move to Anfield in the summer but nothing ever materialised.

It now appears as though Chelsea would like to get their hands of one of Spain's hottest properties. It is believed he will cost around £15 million for whoever wants to buy him.

Atletico Madrid and Valencia could be set to make an approach for Blackburn winger, David Bentley in the January transfer window according to reports in the Sunday Mirror today.

According to the Daily Mail website, Tottenham have seen off interest from several other Premier League clubs to sign Rangers defender Alan Hutton.

The Scottish full-back has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time and it now appears as though he will join Spurs for a fee believed to be around £7 million come January.

Hutton put in a number of terrific displays during Scotland's failed Euro 2008 qualifying campaign and that caught the eye of many Premier League managers including Rafa Benitez, Sven Goran Eriksson, Alex Ferguson, Sam Allardyce and Arsene Wenger.

It will be very interesting to see how the 23-year old adapts to life in the Premier League because many other SPL players have joined England's top league and failed. I think he will be a real success in the league although I feel £7 million is slightly high.

Barcelona midfielder, Deco has said that former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is the perfect man for the Barca manager's job and that he is the man to bring silverware to the club, according to reports on Sky Sports today.

Pat Fenlon has today been named the new Bohemians manager after the sacking of Sean Connor earlier in the week.

Fenlon was strongly linked with the post last winter before Connor's appointment but he decided to join Derry where he spent only five months at the club due to a run of poor form.

I have to say on a personally note I'm over the moon with the appointment. Connor lacked passion and made some.... unusual descions during his rein at Dalymount Park.

I feel "Nutsy" will be the man to lead Bohs into an exciting new era at the North Dublin club and I feel with some money at his disposal he could easily lead Bohs to a first Eircom League title in five years.

The former Shelbourne manager has been in charge of the Ireland under-23's for the past few months but it is unclear wheter or not he will continue this role now that he is Bohs manager.

Spurs will complete the signing of Wales and Cardiff defender, Chris Gunter at the beginning of the January transfer window after the 18 year old passed a medical at the club.It is thought that the two clubs have agreed a fee somewhere between £3 million and £3.5 million.

Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing wants the club to terminate his contract at the club, after the England international became upset when the Boro fans booed the team, according to reports in the Daily Mirror today.

Portsmouth could be set to make an approach for Bolton midfielder, El Hadji Diouf in the January transfer window according to reports in today's Daily Mirror.

Tottenham are set to sign Cardiff City defender Chris Gunter after the two clubs agreed a fee today, according to reports on Sky Sports this evening.

David Beckham is set to join Arsenal in January... to train with them during the close season in the MLS.

Beckham's team, LA Galaxy, have given him permission to join an English side during the close season and it looks increasingly likely that it will be Arsenal.

"We will help him to get fit and prepare for the season," Wenger told BBC Radio 5 Live."There's a good chance that he will come in January, but it's not decided."

Beckham has a house nearby so Arsenal is the easiest option for the England international. Beckham is looking to impress new England manager Fabio Capello in order to reach 100 caps and he hopes he can do so whilst training with the Gunners.

"He has 99 caps and I hope he will get 100, if not 100 then 120," said Wenger. "At his age he needs to keep fit."However, the Frenchman dismissed suggestions that Beckham could feature for Arsenal in the new year. "He comes (only) to keep fit and work hard," added Wenger.

Lawrie Sanchez has today been sacked as Fulham manager after a disappointing start to the season. It ends eight months in the job for Sanchez since taking over from Chris Coleman at the back end of last season.

Speculation is already beginning as to who will replace Sanchez with former Hibernian manager John Collins amongst the favourites.

Man United are set to make an approach for Porto defender Jose Bosingwa in the January transfer window according to reports in the Daily Telegraph today.

It has been reported in today's The Sun that West Ham are still after Tottenham striker Darren Bent, the player who turned down a move to the Hammers in the summer.

Hammers boss Alan Curbishley has apparently forgiven Bent for the summer snub and willing to bid for the £16 million striker in January.

Bent hasn't had the best of times since joining Spurs and has only scored twice in his five months since joining the club.

He is now either 3rd or 4th in the pecking order of strikers at the club and it has been widely speculated that he is interested in a January move away from Whit Hart Lane.

West Ham, I feel really need a striker in January and who knows Bent could be the man. If he is able to rekindle the form that he showed at Charlton whilst playing under Curbishley then he will be a big success.

Everton and Sunderland are set to battle it out for the signature of Reading star Stephen Hunt in the January transfer window according to reports in The Guardian and the Daily Mirror this week.

The draw for the last 16 of the Champions League was made this morning here's how it went and who got who;

Best goal celebrations
Video sent by Nvboy

Some hilarious goal celbrations, my favourtie has to be Reading's Shane Long when he gores into the mascot! Brilliant, whats your favourite?

It was been reported in yesterday's Daily Telegraph that Bolton boss Gary Megson is interested in signing Celtic midfielder Evander Sno in January.

The Dutch defensive midfielder has only made 21 appearances for the Scottish Champions since joining from Feyenoord in 2006.

The 20-year old is reportedly very high on Wanderers boss Gary Megson's wish list for January and I feel Sno will be attracted by a move to the Premier League.

It was also reported yesterday in the Daily Express that Celtic will try to hold onto the player but one suspects they may take the money if Bolton bid for him.

It has widely speculated today that Manchester United are keen on signing Henrik Larsson on a short-term loan deal.

Larsson, who of course used to play for United, has been playing in Sweden with Helsinborgs in recent months and it looks as though a move back to the Champions could be on the cards.

The 36-year old made nearly a dozen appearances with the Red Devils last season scoring twice. The former Celtic legend is reportedly open to the move and United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is said to be desperate to bring him back to Old Trafford.

I feel if United were to sign Larsson it would be a terrific move for both player and club because at the present moment in time United only really have two strikers in Rooney and Tevez (Saha's crap so he doesn't count) and instead of spending a large amount of money on a top striker Ferguson would be better off just getting Larsson for free.

Chelsea could be set to make an approach for Hamburg midfielder, Rafael Van Der Vaart in the January transfer window according to reports in the Daily Telegraph today.

Van Der Vaart, 24, joined Hamburg in 2005 from Ajax for a fee of €5.5 million and he has rediscovered his form at the Bundesliga side, which he lacked at the end of his Ajax career.

The Hamburg playmaker has long been linked with a move to the Premier League and this January it may just happen for him.

However, Juventus will attempt to snatch the Dutchman from under Chelsea this January. It has been rumoured that Hamburg will not let the free kick specialist go for anything less than £20 million.

To see the talent which this young man possess check out this video.

Everton are set to make an approach for Valencia captain, David Albelda in the January transfer window according to reports in several of today's newspapers.

Liverpool midfielder, Momo Sissoko could be set for a January exit to either Inter Milan or Juventus according to reports in the Daily Mirror today.

Liverpool are set to make an approach for both AC Milan defender, Kakha Kaladze and Seville full back, Manuel Casado in the January transfer window according to reports in The Sun today.

Aston Villa are set to make an approach for Barcelona striker, Eidur Gudjohnsen and Arsenal full back Justin Hoyte according to reports in the Daily Star today.

Gudjohnsen joined the La Liga side in 2006 from Chelsea but has struggled slightly to get his place in the starting eleven ever since. With the presence of Eto'o, Ronaldinho, Messi and now three Barca new boys in Giovani, Bojan and Henry, the Icelandic striker has been forced to play a midfield role at the club, but only when Xavi and Iniesta are out.

Peter Crouch tonight made one of the worst tackles I have seen in ages. His lunge on John Obi Mikel was rightly shown a straight red card by ref Martin Atkins and will now miss Liverpool's next three games unless Liverpool appeal and the appeal is successful (Which won't happen).

Johan Djourou is unsure of his future as he must decide on whether to stay at Birmingham and secure a full contract at the club or to return to the Gunners.

Liverpool defender John Arne Riise has today rejected reports that have said that the Norwegian is set for a move away from the Merseyside club.

Jonny Evans has this afternoon been bailed after questioning over a rape incident in Manchester city centre.

The alleged incident happened on Monday night during the Man United player's Christmas party and Evans was arrested on Tuesday evening after going to a police station.

He has been bailed until February 23rd. Evans is a full Northern Irish international and has made eight appearances for the United first team.

On Tuesday night, a GMP spokesman said: "A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape this evening after presenting himself to police."He remains in custody for questioning."

It has been confirmed today the Tottenham are to appeal against the red card received by Didier Zokora during the side's 2-0 victory over Manchester City last night.

The player was sent off for a foul, in which he got the ball and didn't touch the player but did raise his feet. Many Spurs players, including Zokora were shocked at the decision but luckily for them the held out to qualify for the semi-finals of the Carling Cup.

"Tottenham have submitted a claim for wrongful dismissal in relation to the sending-off of Didier Zokora for serious foul play against Manchester City in last night's Carling Cup tie," read a statement from the FA.

I personally thought it was a slightly harsh decision although the rule states that when you have both feet off the ground you must go. I don't think the appeal will be successful, simply because red card decisions are never over turned.

Tottenham are after Ajax defender Urby Emanuelson if you believe the player's agent. Emanuelson is one of the latest in a long list of player's to come through the Ajax youth set-up.

The left-back has quickly made a name for himself in the Dutch league and Champions League as one of the best around and with current Spurs left-back Gareth Bale out injured for a while Spurs boss Juande Ramos may be keen on adding to that department.

"I have been rung, but I referred them to Ajax," Brian Berkleef(the player's agent) told Dutch daily De Telegraaf. "Yes, he certainly sees a move in January as a possibility."

I think it would be a super signing by Spurs because I have seen Emanuelson play a few times now and he certainly looks a hot prospect. It would be interesting to see if Spurs were to sign the player, who in the future, would get their game, Bale or Emanuelson?

Aston Villa are set to make a bid for Valencia defender, Miguel in the January transfer window according to reports in The Mirror today. It is also being rumoured that Chelsea will try snatch the full back from under Villa's nose.

United are set to make a bid for Spurs striker Dimitar Berbatov in the January transfer window according to reports in numerous papers today. The bid will consist of £6 million, Louis Saha and Wes Brown for the Bulgarian international.

Newcastle, Man City and West Ham are set to battle it out for Barca striker Eidur Gudjohnsen in the January transfer window according to reports in The Sun today.

Chelsea have today agreed a deal to sign Argentine sensation Franco Di Santo from Chilean outfit Audax Italiano.

The player has been tipped for big things in the game and has been linked with many top European clubs including Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United.

Di Santo has made 35 performances at Audax and has scored an impressive 13 goals in that period. The player has impressed whilst on duty for the Argentine youth teams although he could of played for Chile.

It is believed Chelsea have paid an initial fee of £3.4 million for the 18-year old and he will join up with the Chelsea team once the transfer window has opened on the 1st of January.

It has been reported today in the Daily Express that Everton and Tottenham are to make January bids for Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing.

Both Spurs and Everton are said to be in the market for a winger in the January transfer window and both are said to be keen on bringing the 23-year old to their respective clubs.

Toffees boss David Moyes stated previously that he is interested in bringing maybe one or two players to Goodison Park in January and Downing is said to be one of his main targets.

As we all know Juande Ramos has only been at Spurs a dozen weeks or so and he is set to spend a bit of money in January to try and stamp his own mark on the team after the departure of Martin Jol earlier in the season.

It is rumoured that whoever buys him will have to at least cough up £8 million and that could prove to be a bargain in a few years because although he is performing to his best at the moment he certainly has a lot of potential.

Spurs are set to make an approach for Scotland and Rangers full back Alan Hutton in the January transfer window according to reports in The Express today.

Man United are set to make an approach for Bayern Munich full back Philipp Lahm in the January transfer window according to reports in The Times today.

Lahm is probably best known for his opening goal in the 2006 World Cup in Germany where he cracked in from the edge of the box for the host nation against Costa Rica. He set another record in that World Cup as he was the only German to play every minute of their 690 minutes of playing time. The 24 year old was also on the shortlist for World Player of the Year that year.
However, Lahm has also performed very well for his club side and helped them to the Bundesliga and German Cup titles in 2006.

I would think that if United were to put in a bid for the German international that it will be for between £12 million and £14 million. The arrival of Lahm may also trigger the departure of Wes Brown who is yet to sign a new contract at the club.

Cristiano Ronaldo has said that he would love to play for a club in Spain and that it is his dream to play in La Liga, according to reports in a number of today's papers.

AC Milan are set to release Brazilian striker Ronaldo according to today's Daily Star. The player joined the Italian outfit just under a year ago but has failed to make any real impression at the European Champions.

Ronaldo's weight issue has long been a topic of debate and many people feel he hasn't got what it takes any more to be a top striker. There is no doubting Ronaldo, in his time was one of the best in the world but unfortunately for him things haven't gone according to plan the last few years.

I predict if AC are to dump him he will probably go back to Brazil and play for a club their because I don't see any kind of future for him in Europe at the moment.

Barcelona attacking midfielder Ronaldinho has tonight been voted fifth best player in the world for 2007. The results of FIFA's World Player of the Year were announced tonight with AC Milan's Kaka winning the award.

In second was Barcelona's Lionel Messi, with Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo taking third place. Chelsea's Didier Drogba was announced as fourth best player in the world for 2007 and Ronaldinho in fifth.

Ronaldinho won the award in two consecutive years back in 04 and 05 but has been largely disappointing this season. The Brazilian international has been used as a substitute in recent weeks by Barca boss Frank Rijkaard due to a poor spell of form in recent months.

Now I agree with the top four in the awards but to vote Ronaldinho in fifth is absolutely ludicrous. He has been largely disappointing throughout 2007 yet he still makes the top five players in the world.

The decision in my view is largely down to his reputation. He was a quality player back in the seasons of 04/05 and 05/06 but since then he has simply been average. Players like Cesc Fabregas would be much more worthy of receiving this award than Ronaldinho.

So do you agree or do you actually think Ronaldinho was worthy of the award? Who do you think should of received fifth ahead of the Brazilian?

Absolute stupidity! As soon as England get a world class manager in Fabio Capello they're already talking about who will be next to have the job once the Italian is gone. Stuart Pearce is supposedly already being lined up to succeed the former Real Madrid boss once his reign as England gaffa is over according to reports in The Sun.

It has been reported today in the Daily Star that Tottenham boss Junade Ramos is ready to bid for Manchester United midfielder Nani come the January transfer window.

The Portuguese played has failed to nail down a first team place at the club, unlike the player he arrived with in the summer, Anderson. He has scored twice in the Premier League against Spurs and Middlesbrough respectively.

Nani joined the club back in the summer from Sporting Lisbon for a fee believed to be in the region of £14-17 million and the Star says that a figure of around £20 million would be needed to lure him away from Old Trafford.

The 21-year old has played 12 times for United and both of his goals have been 30-yard screamers. I would be really surprised if United were to let him go after only a couple of months, although if they were to be offered the rumoured £20 million, Sir Alex may have to consider it.

Lassana Diarra has handed in a transfer request at Arsenal because of his lack of game time at the club according to reports in several of today's newspapers.

I don't know about anyone else but was it just me who thought that Sami Hyypia had an extremely good game against United yesterday. Could the Finnish international possibly keep Dan Agger out once the Dane returns in the coming weeks?

The FA may take action against Liverpool in the upcoming weeks after a fan attempted to throw a golf ball at Wayne Rooney during the club's 1-0 home defeat to Manchester United according to reports in The Guardian. Don't cry Wayne !

Liverpool are set to make an approach for Portsmouth star Sully Muntari in the January transfer window if their bid for Javier Mascherano is rejected, according to reports in today's Daily Mirror.

As well all know Wes Brown has rejected a final contract offer from Man United in recent days and it looks from this picture that he wants to join Liverpool. He's so desperate to leave United that he's jumping into opponents benches. Come on Wes, wait til the summer mate!

It has been rumoured today in the Observer that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is after Lyon striker Karim Benzema.

The 19-year old striker has impressed immensely this season in both the French league and the Champions League, his performance against Rangers was nothing short of sensational and that has apparently sparked an on-going interest from the Gunners boss.

Benzema has made over 50 performances already for the French giants and has scored 17 goals. He has been linked with many other European giants including AC Milan.

I personally would like to see Benzema join the Premier League because he looks a class act. I personally feel if he continues at the rate he has been going at, he could be as good as Henry and that's no joke.

After today's Premier League games between the big four, I have come to the conclusion that Liverpool and Chelsea will not win the league. Both sides lost their respective games against Arsenal and Man United 1-0 and that along with many other things effectively ends their title ambitions.

Chelsea played well today against Arsenal, without ever really excelling whilst Liverpool never really looked like snatching a point from United. Chelsea were once again without Didier Drogba for today's game and are likely to be without him for some time due to the African Nations and injury.

Chelsea are simply not the same team without Drogba. Simple as. They have Andriy Shevchenko, who has never shown anything like the form that he did whilst at AC Milan. They also have Claudio Pizzaro, who has also failed to show much since joining from Bayern this summer.

Finally they have Salomon Kalou, who in my view doesn't have the ability to play for a top Premier League side. His is also going to be missing for most of January and February due to the African Nations.

Chelsea ly in third at the moment in the table and I feel they will remain their for most of the season. Although they have won many games this season, I just don't think their the same threat now Grant is in charge at the Bridge.

With Liverpool, I feel they need at least another season to try and gel and get used to each others games. They spent a huge amount of money in the summer but unfortunately for them it hasn't had an immediate effect. It's kind of like Chelsea when they were taken over by Abramovich.

It took them a season to gel and then they won two in a row, but worryingly for Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez, Abramovich sacked his manager and got success, so will Hicks and Gillett do the same?

So although it may sound daft of me to rule out Chelsea and Liverpool at this moderately early stage, I just feel they don't quite have what it takes to take this season's title from either Arsenal or Man United.

Sunderland could be set to make an approach for Reading midfielder Stephen Hunt in the January transfer window according to reports in The Guardian today.

Chelsea are set to make an approach for Everton striker, Yakubu in the January transfer window according to reports in The Express today.

It has been reported today in the News of the World that Manchester United keeper Edwin Van Der Sar is a target of La Liga giants Barcelona.

Van Der Sar is now 37-years old and many people predict that he will lose his number one jersey at United next season and Barca are apparently interested in the Dutch keeper as back-up to Victor Valdes.

Van Der Sar joined United back 2005 from fellow Premier League side Fulham and has played 86 games for the club.

He of course used to play at European giants Juventus as well as Dutch side Ajax and has had a very long and successful career.

I personally think Barca should look elsewhere for a new keeper because with Van Der Sar fast approaching 38 he is likely to pack in the game soon. I think if he was going to move to the Spanish giants he would of done it a lot earlier in his career.

It has been rumoured today that Rangers boss Walter Smith is interested in signing Derby County striker Kenny Miller.

Miller of course used to play for Old Firm rivals Celtic and has struggled to make his mark on the Premier League since his summer move to the Rams.

Miller spent a year at Celtic and scored seven times in thirty three games for the club and rumour has it that he wants a move back to Scotland and Rangers are said to be very keen on the 27-year old.

With Derby almost certainly going down it is likely that Miller won't want to be playing in England's second league so a move to Rangers could be on the cards, but it may come in the summer as opposed to January.

After another Premier League victory today, Everton have risen to sixth in the Premier League, level on points with arch-rivals Liverpool.

Everton beat West Ham 2-0 at Upton Park carrying on a magnificent start to the new season. The Toffees boss has done a magnificent job since joining the Merseyside club a couple a years back.

They look a classy out-fit and in my view are the biggest threat to the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool for the fourth spot in the league. I would be very surprised if they don't qualify for at least UEFA and who knows, they may yet even qualify for Champions League.

I heard a lot of names mentioned recently for the England,(which of course has been given to Fabio Cappello) but one thing that baffled me was, the exclusion of David Moyes. In my book he's one of the best, if not the best manager in Britain and should of brought into the reckoning.

So do you think Everton have what it takes to break into that top 4 this year or maybe even next year?

I'm undecided, but whose hat-trick do you think was better? Santa Cruz or Bent?

Celtic defender Bobo Balde has today been linked with a move to Premier League side Sunderland after falling out of favour at the Glasgow club.

Sunderland boss Roy Keane has apparently identified a defender as one of his main priorities in the January transfer window and he is very keen on bringing the Guinean international to the Stadium of Light.

Balde was linked with a move to Derby during the summer but nothing ever materialised from that rumour and he now looks set to join the Black Cats.

The 32 year old has made 157 appearances since joining the club back in 2001 from Toulouse. I really hope Balde leaves Celtic in January because he has a lot of ability and it is shame to see him sitting on the bench every week.

As we all know, we are entering a vital spell in the Premier League with the Christmas period and I would like to take this opportunity to remind people we have a fantasy Premier League table open to all readers.

As a lot of you know premierleague.com has a free fantasy football game and we have our own league so if you already have a team or would like to set up a new team please feel free to join the league. It's free!

Simply type this code into the "leagues" section on your teams menu bar :

It has been reported today that Sven Goran Eriksson is closing in on Shakhtar Donetsk striker Nery Castillo and Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka.

It had been widely speculated yesterday that City had completed the year long loan signing of Castillo after his agent confirmed there had been an agreement with City.

The agent claimed that the original deal was a year long loan deal with an option of a permanent deal at the end of the loan spell.

It has been no secret in recent weeks that Sven has been on the look out for strikers, with that position probably the only part of his side that is letting him down at the moment. He has been linked with dozens of front men in recent week inc Michael Owen and Peter Crouch.

On the Anelka rumour, Eriksson said yesterday that "Anelka has everything you can wish from a striker - quality, technique, pace, goals and he is big and strong," "He has done well at any club he has played for. He is a fantastic player."

I think both players would be terrific signing for City and I think if they were to sign the pair they would definitely be very very strong contenders for a top 6 finish.

Today's Premier League bet of the day comes from the game between West Ham and Everton at Upton Park. Both sides met in the Carling Cup quater final on Wednesday with Everton coming out victorious.

The bet of I have gone with is a score draw @ 3/1 @ Paddy Power. The Hammers will be out for revenge but I see them coming up just short of the win and I feel this is a nailed on score draw.

Middlesbrough are set to make an approach for Aston Villa striker Luke Moore in the January transfer window according to reports in the Daily Star today.

It has been widely speculated today that Newcastle United manager Sam Allardyce has put an £8 million price tag on striker Michael Owen.

Owen has been ravaged with injuries over the past two years or so and many people are starting to doubt wheter or not he can really come back from so many operations etc;

Manchester City have always been said to be very keen on the 28-year old's services but apparently Sven Goran Eriksson has today told Allardyce that he isn't interested.

The former Liverpool striker was linked with several other English teams before he joined Newcastle back in 2006 including current Premier League Champions Man United and I have seen somewhere that they may be interested in him again.

One things for certain is that when Michael Owen plays he's a real threat but unfortunately for him and Newcastle he hasn't been able to play enough. I just hope wherever he goes (if he does leave) they have a good medical centre!

Sir Alex Ferguson has today admitted that he tried to sign Liverpool striker Fernado Torres before he joined the Reds during the summer.

Liverpool signed Torres from Spanish side Atletico Madrid during the summer for a club record fee in the region of £20-26 million.

"For years we tried to do a deal there but we never quite managed it because Atletico Madrid didn't want to sell or the player felt he was too young one year," said Ferguson.

"Then we just lost interest a bit because sometimes you get fed up with going back to the same venue all the time. He's a good player. We wouldn't have been interested in him if he wasn't. "I think the advantage Rafa had was that he is Spanish and his dealings with Atletico were maybe better than ours because he's Spanish."

Torres is a quality player and it comes as no surprise to me that Ferguson tried to sign him. It would of been a very interesting prospect... Rooney, Tevez, Ronaldo and Torres.

I am really looking forward to seeing how Torres performs in the big game on Sunday and I feel he may be the man to turn the game in Liverpool's favour.

Birmingham are targeting Sparta Prague and Czech Republic defender Michal Kadlec in the January transfer window according to reports on Sky Sports today.

Nicky Shorey has today said that despite being in contract talks with current club Reading that he would find it difficult to turn down a move to any of the Premier League's big four.

Portsmouth are set to make an approach for Germany and Schalke striker Kevin Kuranyi in the January transfer window according to reports today in the Daily Mirror.

Avram Grant has today signed a new four-year deal at Chelsea after lifting the side to third in the Premier League.

Grant took over back in September after the shock departure of Jose Mourinho and it must be said, many people questioned Roman Abramovich's decision to appoint the Israeli.

Grant has lost just once in his first seventeen games as Chelsea manager and that defeat came at the hands of in form Manchester United.

Grant has also guided Chelsea into the last sixteen of the Champions League and things are looking a lot brighter than they were back in mid September.

I must say I thought Chelsea were out of the title race once they appointed Grant but they have really proved me wrong. It will be very interesting to see what Grant does in January. I feel he needs to bring in one or two players if they are to continue their title chase.

Arsenal are close to signing Bulgaria and Levski Sofia winger Nikolay Dimitriov according to reports on Sky Sports today.

Inter Milan are closing in on CSKA Moscow midfielder Daniel Carvalho according to reports on Sky News today. The deal cannot yet be finalised though, until the reopening of the transfer window next month.

It has been confirmed tonight that Fabio Capello will be the man to lead England into the World Cup 2010 qualifying campaign. It comes after weeks of speculation as to who would take over from Steve McClaren with many names popping up throughout this time.

Names like Jose Mourinho, Martin O'Neill, Steve Coppell, Harry Redknapp etc; have all been linked with the job but it has now been confirmed Cappello has been handed the job.

Cappello has managed many top European clubs including Real Madrid, Roma and Juventus and with all clubs he has proved to be a big success. Although a lot of people are happy and optimistic with the appointment a few senior figures in football have expressed their concerns at the appointment.

Tony Adams, Paul Ince and Steve Coppell to name few have all expressed their dissatisfaction at the appointment largely because they felt the England manager should be English and I would tend to agree with them.

There is no doubting his ability as a coach. He's class, but I just feel the FA maybe should of went for an Englishman, someone like Harry Redknapp or even Steve Coppell. Sven Goran Eriksson, the first ever foreigner to manager England today told of his admiration of Cappello.

"I have known Fabio Capello for many years, I was his opponent in Serie A for 10 years," said the Swede, who was coach of Roma, Fiorentina, Lazio and Sampdoria."He is a very good man and manager. His record speaks very clear. He has won titles in Italy. "Capello is one of the best managers you can find."

Many people feel the language barrier may be a problem for Cappello but I don't think that will be too big of a problem. It has been no secret in recent days that Cappello was close to signing and the result in the recent poll was pretty conclusive.

Cappello received nearly two thirds of the vote, finishing miles ahead of joint second place, Jose Mourinho and Jurgen Klinsman. One thing that strikes me from the poll is that you, the readers, don't seem concerned at all about the nationality of your manager.

Harry Redknapp finished in fourth in the poll just ahead of "other". So will Cappello be a success as England manager and will he finally get the best out of the under performing players? What do you think?

Portsmouth players including; Matt Taylor, Lauren, Pedro Mendes, Djimi Traore and Richard Hughes may all be sold this January according to reports in The Times today.

Eggert Magnusson has today left West Ham after only a year as chairman. Earlier today Magnusson sold his stake in the Premier League club and declared he was going to focus a little more on interests abroad.

"Now that I need to focus a little more on my interests overseas, I think it is the right time to stand down," he said. Owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson has become chairman and executive chairman and has bought Magnusson's 5% shareholding in the club.

"Eggert Magnusson has done a tremendous job as chairman, often in difficult circumstances, since our consortium bought the club 12 months ago," said Gudmundsson, who the club says has invested a further £30.5m.

"Eggert has decided to move on to new pastures and to pursue his other interests. We wish him well for the future and express our thanks for all that he has done for West Ham."

Magnusson took over West Ham with the side languishing near the foot of the table, but instead of sitting back and letting things sort out themselves he acted quickly by sacking Alan Pardew and appointing Alan Curbishley.

Curbishley kept the side in the league but after the season ended the Hammers faced an appeal from Sheffield United about a possible points deduction for playing Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano who's playing at the club was brought into question.

The Hammers dodged a points deduction but were handed a massive fine. Magsnusson finished by saying : "The last 12 months have not been without their challenges but I feel that we have emerged stronger and fitter as a club.

"I would also like to pay tribute to the West Ham fans who, I believe, have shown themselves to be the best in the country."My thanks to everybody who has worked with me in my time here and I wish the club every success for the future."

Bye Bye Eggert and good luck !

It has been rumoured in recent days that Sunderland boss Roy Keane is looking to strengthen his squad, especially in central positions.

He has been linked with Man United defender Wes Brown, who looks likely to leave the club in January or the summer), Chelsea bench warmer Steve Sidwell and Blackburn Rovers striker Jason Roberts.

He has been told he has £20 million to spend in January on new players and these are apparently his main targets.

I personally think the three would all be decent signings for the Black Cats. Brown is a good reader of the game and can play in either of two positions (right back or centre back).

Sidwell was terrific at Reading last year and in my view and I'm sure many other peoples view he was wrong to leave them and join Chelsea. I feel it is time he admits he made a mistake and move on and Sunderland would be a good move for him

Roberts has been in a relegation battle before and he knows how to survive it. He would offer a different option up front for Sunderland because at the moment they only have one man performing and that's Kenwyne Jones.

It has been widely speculated today that Birmingham City are to bid for Lyon striker Milan Baros and Everton forward James McFadden.

Baros has been linked with a move away from the French giants for some time with Man City and West Ham both apparently keen on the former Liverpool star. Baros joined Lyon earlier this year after spending two years with Aston Villa.

Since joining Lyon, Baros has scored six times in nineteen games. He has previously won the Golden Boot at the European Championships in 2004 and continues to impress with the Czech Republic.

McFadden has never really shown his true potential with Everton although he continues to perform immensely well with his national side Scotland (a bit like David Healy at Fulham).

He joined the Toffees back in 2003 but has only managed to score 10 times in over a 100 matched for the club. He has been linked with several other clubs in recent weeks including Celtic, Fulham and Wigan.

It is no surprise that Birmingham are after McFadden, what with the whole Scotland thing and Alex McLeish. The Baros link is a bit of a surprise and I feel they will be doing really well to convince him to join the club.

Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov will not be leaving the club this January, according to reports in The Daily Star today.

Karim Benzema proved tonight just why Arsenal and several other top European sides are after him. He put in an absolute top drawer performance in Lyon's 3-0 victory away at Rangers tonight.

Benzema got on the scoresheet twice and his all round play was immense throughout the ninety minutes. He scored two late goals and also played a key part in Lyon's first goal when his shot was saved by Rangers keeper McGregor but he could only parry it out to Sidney Govou who finished well.

Benzema has been linked with a £20 million move in recent weeks and months to most specifically Arsenal and I taught at the time that that fee sounded a bit hefty for a 19-year old but now it looks a bit of a bargain.

According to reports in today's Daily Mail, Manchester City defender Micah Richards is set to sign a new deal at the club ending any speculation of a move to any of the big four.

Richards has been an absolute revelation since breaking onto the scene two years ago with City and Citizens boss Sven Goran Eriksson has been desperate to tie the 19-year old down to a long term deal.

Richards has also impressed immensely whilst playing for the England national team and many felt his performances were the only good thing to come out of the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

As a City fan myself I have to say I'm over the moon. Micah is an essential part of the City team and without him we wouldn't be the same side. His partnership with Richard Dunne in the centre of the City defence has been terrific and long may it continue.

Birmingham and Wigan are set to make an approach for Real Murcia striker Inigo in the January transfer window according to reports in The Sun today.

Inigo has impressed for the La Liga promoteed side and has clearly caught the attention of Steve Bruce's and Alex McLeish. "To play in England is a dream and I hope someone makes a good offer so that this could be possible," he is quoted as saying in The Sun.

However it is believed that Inigo's destination club will have to pay £10 million for the striker, which is quite a steep sum for a club of Wigan's or Birmingham's stature.

It has been widely speculated today that Marseille youngster, Samir Nasri may be on his way to the Premier League. Tottenham, Arsenal, Man United, Man City and Chelsea are all said to be keen on the French international.

Nasri was in Champions League action in his sides 4-0 home defeat to Liverpool and despite coming on after a half an hour he was without doubt, Marseille's top performer on the night.

Marseille are currently lying in mid table in the French league and in my view, and the view of many others, Nasri is too good for that. He is a very creative player with a flamboyant style about him.

It is believed whoever does want to sign him will have to cough up as much as £20 million, but I think that figure may rise. I would also not be surprised if none of the other top European clubs come in for him.

It has been rumoured today that Manchester City boss Sven Goran Eriksson is to bid for Real Zaragoza striker Diego Milito.

The brother of Barcelona star Gabriel Milito, Diego has scored 40 goals in just 80 games for the Spanish side.

The Argentine international has been linked with moves to the Premier League with Tottenham, Liverpool and Arsenal all said to be keen on the 28-year old.

It is taught that any club that want to sign him they will have to cough up as much as £21 million.

It is no secret City are in search of a new striker in January and there is no doubt Milito has the skill and ability to succeed in the Premier League. I saw a bit of him in last summer's Copa America and he doesn't look half bad.

Tottenham are set to make an approach for Ajax keeper Maarten Stekelenburg in the January transfer window according to reports in The Daily Star today.

Liverpool midfielder Momo Sissoko has requested "showdown talks" with Reds manager Rafa Benitez which may encourage Merseyside rivals Everton make a move for the Mali international in the January transfer window, according to reports in The Sun today.

According to a recent poll run by football corner, Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce to become the next Premier League manager to be sacked. In our closest ever poll run on the blog, Allardyce finished just 32 votes ahead of Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate.

Here are the results:

• Sam Allardyce - 449 votes. (40%).
• Gareth Southgate - 417 votes. (37%).
• Rafa Benitez - 165 votes. (14%).
• Other - 79 votes. (7%).

It has been reported today in the Glasgow Herald that Celtic keeper Artur Boruc has decided he will quit the Glasgow giants in the summer.

His future has been the topic of much debate over the last few weeks and it now appears as though he has made up his mind.

This news has led to speculation of where the Polish keeper will end up. Premier League sides Arsenal, Man United and Man City are believed to be monitoring the situation.

Arsenal currently have Manuel Almunia in goals and with Jens Lehman set to leave the club in January Arsene Wenger is in need of more backup.

United have Edwin Van Der Sar in nets at the moment but he isn't getting any younger and Sir Alex is also said to be looking for another keeper.

City boss, Sven Goran Eriksson has an abundance of keepers at the moment but neither of the three have really asserted themselves as the clubs number one.

Boruc has been a top keeper at Celtic and I'm sure they will be sad to see him go. Boruc has made over 70 appearances at the club and has established as a terrific shot stopper.

Name : Roque Santa Cruz

Age : 26

Club : Blackburn Rovers

Position : Striker

Cost : £3.5 million

Santa Cruz joined Blackburn from Bayern Munich during the summer with a reputation as tough striker that pops up with a goal on the odd occasion. He scored 31 goals during his time with the German giants but a long list of injuries prevented him from giving his very best form.

Since joining Rovers he has become a true fan favourite. He has scored 6 goals already this season with 4 assits also. His battling displays in the blue and white of Rovers has been tremendous and his partnership with Benni McCarthy has been very productive.

Many people taught Mark Hughes was taken a big risk when he splashed out £3.5 million on a player that was very injury prone but at this moment in time that figure looks a right bargain. If he continues this form there is no doubt he will be a huge asset for Rovers.

Football Corner Verdict : 8 out of 10.

Here is a list of all the other Football Corner Verdicts:

• Fernando Torres (Liverpool)
• Carlos Tevez (Man United)
• Elano (Man City)
• Gareth Bale (Tottenham)

Tottenham have today been linked with a move for Blackburn star David Bentley. The former Arsenal youngster has impressed immensely this season and he is in many people's eyes, David Beckham's replacement in the England national team.

Bentley joined Blackburn two years ago after deciding to leave Arsenal due to the lack of first team football. Since joining Blackburn he has scored 11 times in 66 games for the club and has helped them qualify for the UEFA Cup in the last two seasons.

I think Bentley would be better off staying at Blackburn. Blackburn have shown so far this season that they are a far better side than Spurs and I feel if he were to move to the Londoners now it would be a step down in his career.

If Tottenham are to bid for Bentley I would feel they would have to cough up at least £12 million for the wide man. It would be a huge profit for Blackburn who signed the player for virtually nothing, but I'm sure Mark Hughes would reject any approach from Juande Ramos.

It has been reported in the Daily Telegraph today that Arsenal are after AC Milan midfielder Yoann Gourcuff. Gourcuff has been labelled by many "the new Zidane" and with only 21 appearances last season some feel he may yet leave the Itlian giants.

This season he has been forced to sit on the bench and wait his chance but thats not the place for a potential super star. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is said to be a keen admirer of the 21-year old and has been linked with making a £15 million bid for him in January.

I have seen Gourcuff a couple of times now for AC, as a substitute, and I have seen glimpses of pure magic. The French under-21 international joined AC back 2006 after a successful stint at French side Rennes.

I would love to see Gourcuff join the Premier League because it would be interesting to see how he develops. I feel with the right guidance he has the potential to, in fact, become half the player Zidane was, and that as you all know would be terrific.

Man United have given Angolan international Manucho Goncalves a trial at the club according to reports in the Daily Mail today. Assuming all goes well, the club will offer the striker a contract in the new year.

"It's a dream" said the 24 year old in a recent interview when asked his about the oppurtunity
he was given.

I don't know too much about this player but of what I have found out he seems to be a promising young talent. He currently plays for Petro de Luanda and was top scorer for that side in their last two seasons. United scouts obviously see something special in this one.

It has been reported today in the Daily Mirror that Sheffield United are keen to bring Hull City star Jay-Jay Okocha to Bramill Lane. The former Bolton player only joined Hull City on a year deal this September and has made nine appearances so far this season.

Okocha, of course made his name at PSG in France, is now 34-years old but he is still as fit as ever. Blades boss Bryan Robson is desperate to bring in a creative midfield player in January and has apparently targeted Okocha lift their season.

I would love to see Okocha join the Blades because with all due respect to Hull fans, their are better players at Bramill Lane. Both sides are on the exact same amount of points this season but I feel United are the bigger club and I think with Robson's guidance Okocha can help push United into a promotion place.

It has been rumoured today that Barcelona star Ronaldinho could be on his way to the Premier League with either Chelsea, Arsenal and Man United chasing the 27-year old.

Ronaldinho has been linked with a move away from Barca for the last couple of weeks after he his form has fallen rapidly. He was recently dropped by Barca boss Frank Rjkaard and that has fuelled speculation of a January exit from the club.

The former world player of the year nearly joined Man United four years ago before joining Barca for £21 million from French side PSG. I think it is the right time for Ronaldinho to leave Barca.

Giovannia Dos Santos is beginning to get ahead of Barca in the pecking order and despite Barca president Juan Laporta staying Ronaldinho is going nowhere I hope he leaves.

I would love to see Ronaldinho in the Premier League because he has clearly got a lot of ability. When he is on his game he is amazing but unfortunately for him that hasn't happened enough in recent weeks and months.

Blackburn and Newcastle are both set to make approaches for South African winger Lance Davids in the January transfer window according to reports in the Daily Mail today.

Newcastle United defender Celestine Babayaro has today has his contract paid off by the club.

The former Chelsea player hasn't featured at all this season due to injury and Magpies boss Sam Allardyce has agreed to end Babayaro's contract at the club.

Babayaro's contract was due to expire at the end of the season but he has had his Newcastle career ended today.

Babayaro joined the club back in 2005 for a fee of around £1 million from Chelsea but rarely did he show on kind of consistent spell of performances.

It is shame to see Babayaro leave the Premier League but hopefully he may come back with someone else. He is only 29-years old and I think he could do a good job for a Championship side or a struggling Premier League side.

Wolverhapton Wanderers winger, Michael Kightly could be set for a move to Serie A side Torino in the January transfer window according to reports in the Daily Mirror today.

Kightly, 21, signed for Wolves in only January of this year after making his loan move from Grays Athletic permanent. The winger quickly became a crowd favourite and at the end of his opening season at the club he was voted Runner up in the Fans' Player of the Year award.

Since joining, Kightly has scored 9 times in his 35 appearances for the club as well as making a breakthrough into the England U 21 setup.

Despite being contracted at the club until June 2009 it is thought that Italian side Torino will make a bid for the midfielder this coming January. It is likely that the Serie A side will offer about £4 million for the Wolves star.

It has been reported in today's Daily Mirror that Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish is set to bid for Rangers striker Kris Boyd if the Scotish side fail to qualify for the knock out stages of the Champions League.

Boyd was brought to Glasgow by McLeish when he was in charge at Ibrox and McLeish is said to be very keen on linking back up with him at Birmingham.

Boyd has been linked with a move to the Premier League in the past and with McLeish on the look out for a new striker in January, Boyd could be the man for the job.

I really want to see how Boyd would do in the Premier League because a lot of players come down from Scotland with big reputations in the SPL and fail to live up to expectations.

Take Shaun Maloney for instance. He joined Villa last season after a very successful spell at Celtic and he has done nothing since arriving.

I really hope Boyd succeeds in England if indeed he does join Birmingham because he is a quality player with a hell of a lot of potential.

It has been rumoured today that CSKA Moscow striker Wagner Love may be on his way to Chelsea due to a fallen out with his manager.

The 23-year old has long been linked with a move to the Premier League and it appears as though Chelsea boss Avram Grant's wants to bring him to the Bridge.

The Brazilian striker recently fell out with CSKA boss Valery Gazzaev and has recently been left out of their last Champions League game against PSV.

Grant is said to be in the market for a new striker in the January transfer window with names like Nicolas Anelka being mentioned.

My personal opinion is that Love may be a slightly cheaper option to Chelsea than Anelka and I really would love to see him join the Premier League. I have seen him many times now in the Champions League and their is no doubt he is CSKA's best player and I think he should be in a better side.

Middlesbrough today beat Arsenal 2-1 in the Premier League, playing extremely well for ninety minutes, but it does pose the question... why they can't perform like that against lesser opponents. Boro were simply splendid today, closing down Arsenal at every opportunity and Boro striker Tuncay appitimised their performance.

They now go on to face Derby County next week and after today's performance you would expect them to beat them comfortably but I personally doubt they will. It is common fact that the lesser sides raise their games against the bigger sides.

So for all you people out their that think Boro will turn a corner from this win today, your probably wrong.

It has been speculated today in the Mail on Sunday that Arsenal are to join the race to sign Croatian midfielder Luka Modric. The Dinamo Zagreb star has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time after impressing whilst on international duty.

Both Chelsea and Man City are set to launch bids for the 22-year old come the opening of the January transfer window and it appears as though now Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is set to step in.

It is likely that whoever is to sign the player will have to cough up as much as £20 million. Modric caught the eye of Wenger during last seasons Champions League when Modric shined in a third qualifying round match between the two sides.

I would personally love to see Modric come to the Premier League because of what I have seen and heard he is something special. He is a terrific play maker that also helps out with the defence and would be a great asset to any side.

According to the Daily Star Sunday, Manchester United have joined Arsenal in the race to sign Aston Villa star Gabriel Agbonlahor.

It was rumoured last month that Arsenal were set to make a £15 million bid for the England under-21 international.

Agbonlahor has just won the November player of the month after helping Villa keep a 100% record through the month.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill is keen to get Agbonlahor to sign a new deal and Gabby has been reported as saying he is willing to sign a new deal at the Midlands club.

It will be very interesting to see wheter or not United or Arsenal make bids for the 21-year old. I really hope Gabby stays at Villa for a couple more years and develop his game and then maybe move on to either of the two Premier League giants.

Although this rumour was floating around all summer, it appears as though Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez may still be interested in Manchester City midfielder Michael Johnson.

The 19-year old has impressed throughout the last year with City thus leading to this speculation.

The Express reports that Sven Goran Eriksson has told Liverpool to forget about signing what many City fans have labelled, the next Colin Bell.

Eriksson said that Liverpool would have to give club captain Steve Gerrard and the Reds stadium, Anfield to have any chance of signing him.

Johnson has scored twice already this season despite missing the last month or so through injury. He has also made his under-21 international debut with England in recent months and has received high praise from several footballing pro's.

I'm sure Johnson wants to further his game at City and then in years to come maybe think about a move to the likes of Liverpool. At City he is guaranteed first team football where as at Liverpool, they already have an abundance of central midfielder players.

According to the News of the World today, Aston Villa have joined West Ham United in the race to sign Derby County winger Giles Barnes. Barnes was linked with a summer move to the Hammers but for some reason or another nothing materialised.

Barnes is almost certain to leave the Premier League strugglers in January and Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is said to be very keen on bringing the 19-year old to Villa Park. The England under-21 international will cost either side as much as £5 million.

Barnes looked a very promising prospect whilst playing with Derby in the Championship but so far in the Premier League he has failed to show that kind of form in a poor Derby side. He has also had a few injuries this season and lets hope we start to see the best of him in the coming months wherever he ends up.

It has been reported today in The Mail that Manchester United are to step up their interests in Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka.

The French striker is said to be a January target of a number of clubs with Chelsea and United favourites for his signature.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been linked with the 28-year old on numerous occasions over the years and he is said to be very keen to offer Anelka an escape route from an under achieving Bolton side.

Anelka has scored eight goals in a Bolton side that lies just outside the drop zone. Although Anelka signed a new contract at the club during the summer, Bolton boss Gary Megson has admitted that he feels Anelka will leave the club in January.

I think £15 million is a tiny bit too dear for a 28-year old. I feel he would a be a perfect signing for Chelsea because with only Didier Drogba really performing well on a regular basis at the club I think it's vital they bring in a new front man.

Charlton are planning to sign Reading striker Leroy Lita on loan in the January transfer window according to reports in The Mirror today.

It has been rumoured on the Telegraph website that Aston Villa are looking to sign either of Tottenham's English strikers Jermain Defoe or Darren Bent.

Both strikers are said to be unhappy at the lack of first team football at the club and have been heavily linked with a move away come the opening of the January transfer window.

The Englishmen have been behind in the pecking order at White Hart Lane with the presence of Dimitar Berbatov and club captain Robbie Keane. Both players figured recently in England's 3-2 defeat to Croatia, which poses the question, why they can get in their national team and not even start for their club.

Juande Ramos has hinted in previous weeks that he may be forced to off load one if not two of his four hitmen in order to supply funds to strenghten his underachieving Spurs side.

Villa are said to be in the market for a new striker come January despite the good form of Gabby Agbonlahor and John Carew.

It is likely that Martin O'Neill will have to cough up as much as £10.5 million on either of the two, even though the London club signed Bent for £16.5 million only last Summer. I would personally chose Defoe over Bent but that's just my opinion... what do you think?

As most of you already know, England have a problem with one position in particular... keeper. They have tried Tottenham's Paul Robinson on many occasions but he has never looked comfortable in the England goal.

He was recently dropped and I thought that was a good decision at the time by former England boss Steve McClaren but unfortunately for him that didn't turn out well.

He put in Scott Carson of Aston Villa for the game against Croatia and as we all know he messed up, costing England a place in Euro 2008.

David James is another player that has been used but he is also prone to the odd calamity. Other names like Robert Green (West Ham) and Chris Kirkland(Wigan) have been mentioned but for some reason or another they haven't got chances.

A keeper that I think holds the key to future success for the national team is Ben Foster of Manchester United. Foster, who of course is currently out injured at United, impressed immensely whilst on loan at Watford last season and in my view he is a future United and England number one.

United signed him from Stoke City two years ago and has yet to make a first team start for the Red Devils. As soon as joining United he was shipped out to Watford, where he spent two very successful seasons, contributing to their promotion in 2006.

Foster has played one game for England, keeping guard in England's 1-0 defeat to Spain earlier this year. Foster is now 24 and I am telling you this now... he will be both England and United's number one within two years.

Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce has something to smile about tonight after his side came from behind to beat Alex McLeish's Birmingham. Allardyce went into the game with pressure to deliver from the Geordie faithful due to the side's failure to win since October.

Newcastle claimed a valuable point in midweek when they held league leaders Arsenal 1-1 at St James Park. Birmingham took the lead after just nine minutes when Cameron Jerome benefited from some suspect defending in the Newcastle defence.

Obafemi Martins brought the sides level after he was taken down in the area, he stepped up and slotted home. Both sides had chances to win it in the second half but it was Newcastle's HabibBeye who sent the Magpies fans home happy.

He latched onto a Emre corner to defeat Birmingham, but McLeish's side can go home with their heads held high after another terrific away display.

So with a decent run of games coming up for Newcastle, will they start pushing up the table or will they continue to underachieve this season? One things for sure ... that hat really didn't suit Big Sam!

After watching Manchester United's 4-1 defeat over Derby County today, I have to ask you all... Is Cristiano a cheat or just quality. The way in which he went down for the penalty was an absolute disgrace and he should cut it out of his game.

He had a decent game, setting up United's first goal, but he had to ruin it by diving. He does it every week. On Monday night he didn't get away with it a rightly so. He was booked by Rob Styles and many people said he shouldn't of been, but quite frankly he was correct to book the Portuguese international.

I am not saying Ronaldo isn't quality because he is but if he carries on the way in which he is he won't get away with it anymore because ref's will cop on to him and start penalising him. Cut if out Ronaldo!

Yet again Porto star Quaresma has been rumoured with a move to Anfield this coming January, but the question I put to you is does the club really need him?

It has been reported today that Chelsea target's Ronaldinho and John Bostock are set to snub a move to Stamford Bridge in favour of staying with their respective clubs.

Ronaldinho has been linked with a move to the Blues for some time now but he has said today he wants to stay at the Camp Nou with Barcelona.

The former World player of the year has been left on the bench in recent weeks by Barca boss Frank Rjkaard but he says he is keen to stay with the club.

“I want to stay at Barcelona,” Ronaldinho told El Mundo Deportivo.“Here I am well and I am serene. I want to remain and fight for the squad and win things here.”

Crystal Palace's John Bostock has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months with Chelsea and Liverpool the front runners for the 15-year old's signature.

Chelsea have apparently offered Palace a massive £2 million for the midfielder but he says he wants to stay at Selhurst Park and further his game their.

I personally would of loved to see Ronaldinho join the Premier League and try and revive his career that seems to be going down hill at the moment. I'm sure in years to come Bostock will be a top Premier League player and I think it's right he stays with Palace and gets some first team football their.

Today's bet of the day comes from the Premier League clash between Man United and Derby County. Obviously United are heavy favourites to win this match and I'm sure Derby will be hoping to get anything from this game. The bet is for United to score 4 or more goals @ 8/5 @ Paddy Power.

Claude Makelele is set to retire from football after the Euro 2008 championships next year despite having one more year left on his contract at Chelsea, according to reports in The Express today.

Man United defender, Wes Brown could be set for a January exit after rejecting an offer of a new four year deal at Old Trafford.

It has been reported that Liverpool are set to make a bid for AS Monaco star Jeremy Menez in the January transfer window.

Menez, 20, is an attacking midfielder but also has the versatility to play up front. In France, some have compared the youngster to the likes of Zinedine Zidane. Since joining Monaco from Sochaux in 2006 the number 10 has netted 10 times in his 41 appearances for the club... Not bad for someone who normally plays in midfield.

Liverpool are favourites to secure the signature of Menez in January and it is thought that the Merseyside club will have to pay up to £7 million for the Frenchman.

This quiz is a test of your knowledge of football crests. Bare in mind that some of them may be the old versions of the crests... Good Luck !!!

Click here for the quiz

Put £10,000 on a Chelsea, Man United double tomorrow against Derby and Sunderland respectively. United are 1-10 and Chelsea are 1-6 and both games are certainly for gong conclusions. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind this double will happen so lump on it... big time!

Both Sven Goran Eriksson and Rafa Benitez have banned their players from watching the Ricky Hatton, Floyd Mayweather fight on Sunday morning. The fight is set to get under way at 4 am British time and with City playing on Sunday afternoon it is no surprise Sven has banned his players.

Benitez's reasons for banning his players was that he wanted them fresh for Liverpool's crucial Champions League match with Marseille on Tuesday night. I'm sure many other Premier League managers have imposed this ban, but one things for sure... I'll be watching it!

It has been announced today that Aston Villa pair Martin O'Neill and Gabriel Agbonlahor have been awarded with the Premier League player and manager of the month awards.

Villa have had a terrific November, having a 100% record in the league, beating Derby, Middlesbrough, Blackburn and Birmingham respectively.

Agbonlahor has scored twice in the four games and his form has apparently caught the attentions of amongst others, Arsenal. Agbonlahor has been linked with a £15 million move to the Gunners but he has spoken of his urge to sign a new deal at the club.

O'Neill's terrific November has led to speculation of a move to the England national team but the good news for Villa fans is that he has also spoken of his determination to stay put.

According to today's Daily Express, West Ham United striker Bobby Zamora is a January target of Celtic, Rangers and Sunderland. Zamora has apparently been told by Hammers boss Alan Curbishley that he can leave the club in January.

Zamora has played since January for the Londoners and is apparently unhappy and in search or a move. It is reported that any club who wants to sign him will have to cough up £2.5 million for the former Spurs striker.

I personally think Zamora will chose Sunderland over either of the Old Firm clubs. Zamora has always stated his ambition to succeed in the Premier League and with Kenwyne Jones the only striker performing at Sunderland at the moment, I'm sure Roy Keane will want to bring in the 26-year old.

It has been reported in several papers today that both Liverpool and Tottenham are interested in signing out of favour Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva. Gilberto has been kept out of the Arsenal team this season by an in-form Matthieu Flamini.

Gilberto, 31, has also been linked with a move to several Italian clubs including Inter Milan and Juventus. Gilberto has always indicated he wants to stay at the Emirates but some feel it is only matter of time that he gets fed up at the current situation.

Gilberto was one of Arsenal's players of the season last year and it has been a real shame to of seen so little of him this season. I really hope Gilberto leaves the Gunners in January because I for one want to see more of the Brazilian player (hopefully in the Premier League!).

Tottenham are set to make an approach for Cardiff City defender Chris Gunter in the January transfer window according to reports in The Independent yesterday.

It has been reported in several newspapers today that Manchester City boss Sven Goran Eriksson is getting close to signing Newcastle striker Michael Owen.

The England striker has been plagued by injury since joining the side back in 2005 and has been rumoured to be looking for a move away from Newcastle.

Eriksson, who of course managed Owen whilst England manager, has been linked with dozens of strikers in recent weeks and months after it has become apparent that his City side are short a front man.

Owen's name has popped up on more than one occasion and the papers are saying that he has won the race to sign Owen.

Owen, 27, joined Newcastle from Real Madrid for a massive £16 million, a figure that is likely to be somewhat decreased if he is to leave the club with many papers claiming £8 million is the fee that will see Owen join City.

As a City fan myself I would of personally preferred Sven to look at someone else because with Owen, he is always likely to get injured. Having said that, I also feel that he is a good signing at £8 million because of his terrific international record, scoring 40 goals in just 88 games.

It was been reported in several papers yesterday that Tottenham are looking to sign FC Porto midfielder Ricardo Quaresma but they must beat off competition several European big names like Manchester United, Lyon, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Real Madrid.

The player is apparently keen on a move to the Londoners but Spurs will have to cough up as much as £20 million. That will probably mean that Spurs manager Juande Ramos will be forced to sell one of his big name strikers like Bent, Defoe or Berbatov.

I have seen Quaresma a few times now and I must say he's something special. The 24-year old joined Porto back in 2004 after a spell with Spanish giants Barcelona.

I would personally love to see him join the Premier League and I think Spurs would be the ideal destination because he is guaranteed first team football every week and I think Spurs need a flamboyant character like Quaresma.

Quaresma was conversely left out of Portugal's World Cup side back in 2006 after having a terrific season with Porto. Although Quaresma is a midfielder, he seldom defends. He has been widely criticised by the Portuguese media for the lack of defensive play in his game.

According to reported in today's Daily Mirror, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is supposedly keen on making a bid for Newcastle left sided player Charles N'Zogbia.

These reports come after Newcastle's impressive 1-1 draw with the league leaders last night a game in which N'Zogbia impressed.

N'Zogbia had been linked with a move to the Gunners during the summer but for some reason or another nothing materialised.

N'Zogbia has been a shining light in a some what average Newcastle side this season thus, leading to these rumours of a possible move to the Londoners.

There is no doubt N'Zogbia has done well this season, but could he perform at the very highest level with Arsenal? I'm undecided. In my view, if Arsenal are to strenghten any position in the January transfer window it should be a left midfielder and they could probably do a lot worse than N'Zogbia.

Today's bet of the day comes from the UEFA Cup clash between Anderlecht and Tottenham. Tottenham go into the game on the back of a disappointing weekend result against Birmingham but they only need a point to progress to the last 32.

The bet is for Tottenham to win the game after being tied with the Belgian side at half-time @ 9/2 @ Paddy Power. So basically half-time/full-time - Draw/Tottenham.

Man United are set to make a bid for Bolton hitman Nicolas Anelka in the January transfer window according to reports in today's papers. But it is thought that Chelsea will be putting the Premier League champions under pressure as they also have been linked with the Frenchman.

Liverpool, Tottenham and Sevilla are all set to make approaches for Sporting midfielder, Adrien Silva in the January transfer window according to reports in The Sun today.

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has been linked with a move to Man City in the January transfer window in several of today's newspapers. The Reds' Danny Guthrie who is currently on loan at Bolton could be set to make his move permanent come January, according to reports in The Times today. Scott Carson is also poised to make a permanent move to Villa Park.

It has been reported today in the sun that Chelsea and Real Madrid may be set to swap players come the opening of the January transfer window. The players in question are Florent Malouda and Royston Drenthe, both of whom have expressed concerns about their futures at their respective clubs.

Maluoda joined Chelsea in the summer from French side Lyon for a fee of around £13.5 million but has in recent days has told of his feelings at Chelsea. He has said the trainings are too tough amongst other things and he said that the Christmas period is only bound to be worse.

Drenthe, who of course was a target of Chelsea's whilst he was still at Feyernood has been forced to sit on the bench in recent weeks due to the terrific form of Marcelo at Madrid. Drenthe joined Real for a fee of around £10 million.

I would say if this deal was to go through Real will have to cough up a bit of money as well as the exchange. Malouda has had a decent start to his Chelsea career but because of his recent comments I feel he may be in favour of this move.

Name : Fernando Torres

Age : 23

Club : Liverpool

Position : Striker

Cost : £26.5 million

Torres became Liverpool's record signing during the summer after completing a £26 million deal from Spanish side Atletico Madrid. Torres arrived with a reputation for scoring goals and he has certainly shown he can do that in the Premier League. Liverpool fans have compared him to Reds legends such as Ian Rush and Robbie Fowler, high praise for such a young player.

Torres has already scored 11 goals in all competitions for Liverpool and some feel that may of been more had it not of been for Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez' rotation policy. Torres has already become a huge fan favourite at Anfield and if he continues in this kind of form there is no doubt he can become one of the worlds best strikers.

Football Corner Verdict : 9 out of 10.

Here are a list of other Football Corner Verdicts:

• Carlos Tevez (Manchester United)
• Gareth Bale (Tottenham)
• Elano (Manchester City)

Tottenham's appeal to have striker Robbie Keane's three match ban rescinded has failed. The striker picked up a straight red card during Sunday's 3-2 defeat to Birmingham at White Hart Lane and many people felt the decision by referee Phil Dowd was very harsh.

Keane will now miss the Premier League games against Premier League high flier Manchester City and Portsmouth as well as the Carling Cup tie with City. This news will come to a big blow to Spurs as they look to resurrect a poor season thus far.

I have to say it was a shocking decision to send Keane off but it is very rare that when a ref sends off a player that the FA rescind the card which I find ludicrous. Do you think Keane deserved the red?

It has been widely reported today that Manchester City boss Sven Goran Eriksson has a problem on his mind. A problem of what to spend his money on. Either he buys former Manchester City striker Nicolas Anelka off Bolton for £12 million or Peter Crouch from Liverpool for £8 million.

Now whilst Anelka was at City he was arguably one of their best ever strikers until he (or should I say his brothers) got greedy. They wanted to move for money and in Anelka's words "a bigger team".

Now that Man City are proving themselves to be a big club, I feel the time is right for Anelka to rejoin the team. Except for a terrible second half of the season, City are likely to be in the UEFA Cup and I'm sure that will interest Anelka.

The rumoured valuation of £12 million I feel is about right although I do see Bolton sticking out for more. Now with Peter Crouch, you have a player that always scores for England but rarely does for Liverpool.

He began to get some game time in recent weeks but up until that even Darren Fletcher was being played more. So far this season he has made five league appearances but has yet to score but yet in Europe he has scored four times in only six games.

I feel Eriksson would be better off forking out four million pounds more on a proven goal scorer in the Premier League in Anelka rather than spending the money on Crouch. What do you think?

It has been reported today in the sun that Everton are interested in signing Wolves keeper Wayne Hennessey come the opening of the January transfer window.

Everton are reported to be ready to launch a £4 million bid for the Wales international. Hennessey really made his name at Stockport County last season when keeping an impressive six clean sheets in as many games for the League Two side.

The 20-year old has since returned to Wolves and has impressed so far this season and it comes as no surprise to me that Everton are expressing an interest in the player. He has quickly established himself as a fan favourite and first team regular at Molineux and I'm sure the Wolves faithful would be unhappy to see him go.

According to our recent poll, you the readers, have voted Petr Cech the Premier League's best keeper. In the end Cech ran away with the vote leaving Liverpool keeper Jose Pepe Reina in his shadows. Cech has been an essential part of the Chelsea team , that has seen the London club claim two league titles in three seasons.

Here are the results of the poll :

1. Cech (Chelsea) 1070 votes (37%).
2. Reina (Liverpool) 628 votes (22%).
3. Other ( ?) 408 votes (14%).
4. Van Der Sar (Man United) 331 votes (11%).
5. Given (Newcastle) 168 votes (7%).
6. Jaaskelainen (Bolton) 152 votes (6%).
7. Carson (Aston Villa) 72 votes (3%).

Today's Champions League bet of the day comes from the Champions League tie between AC Milan and Celtic. Celtic go into the game needing only a point to secure qualification for the last sixteen whilst AC are already through, but need a point to finish the group as winners.

Celtic travel to the San Siro on the back of a 2-1 victory over Shaktar Donetsk last week, however with the Glasgow sides' awful away record in Europe they face a tough task tonight. Therefore the bet is that AC will be leading Celtic come the half time whistle @ 12/5 @ Paddy Power.

By the way if you followed my bet last night you will be somewhat richer. I predicted correctly that a goal would be scored before the 23rd minute in the game between Man United and Fulham last night at Old Trafford. So follow my advice tonight and get on this bet.

Sunderland are looking to sign West Ham striker Bobby Zamora in the January transfer window according to reports in the Daily Star today.

Zamora has struggled to get his place in The Hammers' starting eleven this season, with the presence of fellow strikers Dean Ashton, Craig Bellamy and Carlton Cole.

It has been rumoured that the Englishman is quite unhappy with his amount of game time at the club and it is thought that the London club are looking to cash in on the out of favour forward.

Sunderland are thought to be looking to sign a striker to accompany Premier League new boy, Kenwyne Jones in the Black Cats' attack, and with Bobby Zamora's experience in the top flight he may just be the right man for the job.

It is thought that the Roy Keane's side will have to pay up to £2.5 million for the former Tottenham man.

Reading full-back Nicky Shorey is a summer transfer target for Premier League sides Newcastle and West Ham, according to the mirror.

Shorey's Reading contract runs out this summer and Shorey is reported to have said he will reject a January move to either side in favour of receiving a bumper pay day in the summer.

Shorey was a key part of the Reading side that surprised many people last season when they finished 8th. Shorey was linked with a move to the Hammers last summer but for some reason or another that never happened.

Shorey also made his England debut last season when lining up in England's 1-1 draw with Brazil at Wembley. Reading have struggled so far this season and many people think Shorey is likely to follow Steve Sidwell, who joined Chelsea when his contract ran out last season, out of the club.

Barcelona defensive midfielder Edmilson is attracting the attentions of Premier League sides Manchester City, Tottenham, Newcastle and Liverpool after admitting he is looking to leave the Spanish giants in January.

Barca boss Frank Rijkaaard has repeatedly stated his determination to keep the 31-year old Brazilian at the Camp Nou but Edmilson has grown tired of sitting on the bench and wants to leave the club once fully fit.

Edmilson has also stated he will not sign a new deal at the club. Newcastle were said to be very keen on the player before the close of the summer transfer window but for some reason or another that never progressed.

With Rafa Benitez looking for cheaper players due to the whole situation with the American owners. I am very keen to see how Edmilson would do in the Premier League because I think he has a bit of quality.

Tonight's Premier League bet of the day comes from tonight's only game between Manchester United and Fulham. United will be looking to bounce back from last weekend's defeat to Bolton and few would bet against them doing that, especially with Wayne Rooney back in the side. Fulham have had an average start to the season and will be looking to upset the home faithful.

The bet is that the first goal in the game will be scored by and including the 23rd minute in the match http://www.paddypower.com/bet?action=show_event_by_markets&chosen_ev_id=994955&category=SOCCER. Make sure to watch the game tonight live on Setanta Sports @ 8'0 clock.

West Ham are set to make an approach for Newcastle defender Stephen Carr in the January transfer window according to reports in the News of the world yesterday.

It has been reported today that Middlesbrough are the only team to have made an offer to Barcelona for former World Player of the Year Ronaldinho.

The player, who has been some what out of form for the Spanish giants this season has been linked with clubs like Chelsea and AC Milan in recent months but as yet they have failed to make a bid.

It is reported that Boro have launched a £10 million (euro 15 million) bid for the player but even if it is accepted, it is highly unlikely that the player will agree terms with the club.

Could you imagine a player of the quality of Ronaldinho at 18th place side in the Premier League Middlesbrough? The obvious answer is no and there is absolutely no way Ronaldinho will switch from sunny Barcelona to dull Tee-Side.

If Ronaldinho were to join Boro he may yet find a decent dentist to fix those awful teeth !

Manchester United defender Wes Brown has today been linked with a January move to Newcastle United after it was revealed he has rejected a new four-year deal at the club.

Brown, whose contract runs out at Old Trafford in the summer was apparently offered £50,000 a week but for some reason or another he has rejected.

Brown has been at the club for 11 years now and on numerous occasions he has been linked with moves away from the club. Although Brown has played many many games for the Premier League giants, he has never been a regular starter with the likes of Gary Neville, Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand keeping him out of the team in recent months and years.

I feel it would be a terrific signing for Newcastle if they were to get Brown because one thing Brown always gives you is maximum effort. Newcastle really need defenders at the moment with the side letting in 24 goals already this season. Brown has been a great servant to United and it would be a real shame to see him leave.

Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko could be set for a January exit according to reports in the News of the World today. It is expected though that Chelsea will make a loss of about £18 million since they signed him 18 months ago.

It has been reported in the The Guardian today that Tottenham are after Arsenal utility player Lassana Diarra after the former Chelsea player admitted he was unsettled at the Gunners. Diarra has only started two Premier League games for Arsenal and is growing increasingly frustrated at the lack of first team football.

Diarra was signed by Arsenal just before the summer transfer deadline is a surprise move from London neighbours Chelsea. New Spurs boss Juande Ramos is apparently lining up an £7 million bid for the player that only cost the Gunners £2 million in January.

It has been a real shame to of seen so little of Diarra in recent months because I think he has the potential to be a world class player. He can play in a lot of positions and I feel he would be a real asset to the Spurs side.

Liverpool striker Peter Crouch is wanted by Newcastle United according to today's Daily Star. The player who has long been linked with a move away from Anfield has apparently been told he can leave the club in January if Liverpool's valuation of £10 million is met.

Manchester City, Portsmouth and Newcastle are said to be among the front runners to sign the player and Magpies boss Big Sam is in real need of a striker, with Obafemi Martins threatening to quit, Michael Owen injured and Mark Viduka under preforming.

I feel the time is right for Crouch to leave Liverpool. He has been given several chances in the first team and in my view he has done well but for some reason or another Benitez isn't picking him. It would be an interesting prospect for Crouch to join Newcastle and I for one think he would do well.