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news - Aug 28, 2010
 
1546: Didier Drogba lays it back to Frank Lampard, but the Chelsea midfielder blazes over when well placed in the box. Not the greatest of 45 minutes for the England man.
BBC Sport's David Dulin at Portsmouth v Cardiff: "Cardiff take the lead thanks to an own goal, but it's being debated whether Ibrahima Sonk or Hayden Mullins had the last touch as they both dived in to stop a throughball - instead putting in their own net."
The goal is being credited by PA as a Mullins og
Goooooooaaaaaaaaal
Wolves goal: I tell you what, that's a lovely finish. Jelle van Damme's ball is brought down beautifully by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and instantly the Wolves frontman lashes it home from 10 yards out.
1543: GOALFLASH Wolves 1-0 Newcastle (Ebanks-Blake)
1541: I don't know, you talk someone up... Andy Carroll has the goal at his mercy from Kevin Nolan's lay-off but the striker blazes over the bar from eight yards out. Carroll claims a corner that isn't given - and he is booked for his protestations.
BBC Sport's chief football writer Phil McNulty at Bloomfield Road: "The noisy Bloomfield Road crowd are not deterred by Fulham's goal, which they barely deserved on the balance of play. Blackpool, though, need to find a cutting edge to their attractive approach play - something which may become a recurring theme."
1540: Another good effort at White Hart Lane as Jermain Defoe spins his defender and gets free in the box, but his clipped snap-shot across goal zips past the far post.
Football League Danny: "Welcome to England, Edgar Davids. Crystal Palace's pay-as-you-play new boy is indeed playing (does that mean he has to pay?). Anyway, he finds himself 1-0 down at Scunthorpe, Jonathan Forte with the goal. Elsewhere, Dexter Blackstock puts Nottingham Forest 1-0 up against Norwich."
Lloyd91 on Twitter: "Re: 1529 - I know what you're saying, 6-0 is just SO CLICHE!"
1537: Dominant in the air and committed in the challenge, Andy Carroll has been oustanding so far, causing the Wolves defence all manner of problems. While Wolves are starting to regain a foothold in the match after a dominant Newcastle start, if Carroll continues in this vein an England call-up will not be long in coming... surely?
1535: Almost a stunning second for Chelsea - there's a lofted pass into the box and Ashley Cole turns and lashes a fearsome volley against the crossbar. That would have been up there with Gareth Bale's volley for Tottenham against the same opposition last week.
Football League Danny: "Some Championship action to update you with. Barnsley lead Middlesbrough 1-0. Millwall are 1-0 up on Coventry at home. Swansea are beating Burnley 1-0 and Leeds are 1-0 up at Watford."
Goooooooaaaaaaaaal
Fulham goal: It's totally against the run of play, but Fulham lead. Moussa Dembele is the creator, exchanging passes with Damien Duff before crossing for Bobby Zamora to head home from close range.
1534: GOALFLASH Blackpool 0-1 Fulham (Zamora)
Goooooooaaaaaaaaal
Chelsea goal: Breakthrough. John Terry steps out of defence with the ball and picks a delightful pass to set Florent Malouda through, the Frenchman firing firmly past Thomas Sorensen first time to give Chelsea the lead.
1532: GOALFLASH Chelsea 1-0 Stoke (Malouda)
1529: Remember when Saturday afternoons used to be full of Premier League goals? I'm so glad we've moved on from those dull days. Ahem.
NickMotown on Twitter: "Re: stokeymad. Having just watched Escape to Victory, I can assure you that Sylvester Stallone is better."
Someone has struck the woodwork
1526: It's been all Newcastle up until now at Molineux, but it should be 1-0 Wolves when Sylvan Ebanks Blake can only direct a free header at the far post from a corner against the post.
Football League Danny: "What a hoot for the Owls. Neil Mellor has put them 3-0 up at Hartlepool and they are only half-way through the first half. On course for 12-0 there."
1523: Like their manager Ian Holloway, Blackpool are full of personality. Impressive on-loan debutant Luke Varney cleverly wriggles between a couple of dozing Fulham defenders on the edge of the area before lashing a rising left-footed shot just the wrong side of David Stockdale's post.
1521: Cracking save at White Hart Lane, where Jermain Defoe spins and shoots brilliantly inside the box, only to watch Ali Al Habsi get down low to push away a reaction save.
BBC Sport's chief football writer Phil McNulty at Bloomfield Road: "Lively start by Blackpool in their first home game since returning to the top-flight after 39 years, sticking to manager Ian Holloway's insistence on a passing game. They have had the better of it so far - and thought they had taken the lead through Brett Ormerod's header. A very offside Brett Ormerod."
stokeymad on 606: "Nobody in football is better at saving penalties than Sorenson."
BBC Sport's David Dulin at Portsmouth v Cardiff: "Slow start but now opening up both side have had chances. Pompey's Marc Wilson has a 30-yard free-kick tipped over by David Marshall, while Craig Bellamy curls an effort wide on the break which has spurred on the visitors."
1516: Disallowed. Brett Ormerod thinks he has handed Blackpool a deserved lead at Bloomfield Road, but his header from a deep free-kick is cleary offside.
1515: Chelsea continue to pile on the pressure against Stoke and Thomas Sorensen has to be alert to beat away a swerving Didier Drogba free-kick from range. Bizarrely, the Potters have actually had a couple of chances here. Open game.
Football League Danny: "Hull, with Craig Shakespeare deputising for the unwell Nigel Pearson (get well soon Nigel), are drawing 1-1 at Doncaster. A very early goal (just 62 seconds in) from Donny's Martin Woods has been cancelled out by Nick Barmby. Elsewhere, Torquay's bid to keep their 100% record intact has begun well - they're 1-0 up at Port Vale."
Someone has won a penalty
Chelsea missed penalty: Ryan Shawcross does his best to ruin what has been a fairly positive start for Stoke by bringing Florent Malouda down in the box and Martin Atkinson has no alternative but to award the penalty. Frank Lampard's effort is poor, though, and Thomas Sorensen gets down to his left well to save.
1511: PENALTY SAVED (Chelsea)
1510: PENALTY TO CHELSEA
Stoychers on Twitter: "Edgar Davids. Crystal Palace. Left Back. Glanford Park. Where do we even begin with that?"
Someone has struck the woodwork
1508: They don't come much closer than that. Antolin Alcaraz heads a Wigan corner back across goal and Steve Gohouri volleys goalwards only to watch it crash off the crossbar. Moments later Benoit Assou-Ekotto is caught in possession on the edge of his own area and is grateful to Michael Dawson for the clearance. Sloppy start from Spurs, this.
1507: Newcastle look like they've picked up from where they left off against Villa, dominating possession and pegging Wolves back in their own half in these early stages.
1505: Ominous opening again from the hosts at Stamford Bridge where a delightful Michael Essien through-ball finds Ashley Cole clear on goal, the left-back pulling his shot across goal and past the far post, though.
1503: Cracking effort at Blackpool from home debutant Luke Varney, the frontman dipping a volley at goal and forcing David Stockdale into a smart stop.
1502: First shot in anger of the 1500 kick-offs and it comes at White Hart Lane, where Wigan have made a positive start. Hugo Rodallega fizzes a shot goalwards from range, the ball flying past Carlo Cudicini's post.
1501: And we're up and running at Molineux, White Hart Lane and Stamford Bridge too.
1459: No messing about at Bloomfield Road as Blackpool v Fulham gets under way.
1458: If you haven't done so already people, give this page a manual refresh would you? Do so and Final Score will appear before your eyes at the top of this page. Happy days.
Robsoninho on 606: "Well there should realistically be two 6-0's today, with the outside possibility of a 6-0 later on."
Go easy on the optimism pal, I can't handle the pressure.
1456: So that's gauntlet thrown down by Arsenal, who now top the league (albeit after three games, one more than most of the rest of the league) - can their rivals respond? Let's find out shall we? We're minutes away from the 1500 kick-offs.
1452: BLACKBURN 1-2 ARSENAL:
Mandeep Sanghera reports: "Arsenal showed they have the steel to match their undoubted style as they overcome a Blackburn side difficult to beat, especially at home. Job done."
Adamlapthorn on Twitter: "People said these were the sort of games Arsenal had to learn to win to take the title, so lesson learnt?"
1447: CHELSEA v STOKE:
Kevin Darling reports: "Not much tinkering needed for Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti after successive 6-0 wins but there's one enforced change at right-back as Paulo Ferreira comes in for the injured Branislav Ivanovic. New £17m signing Ramires is on the Blues bench. Stoke are boosted by the return of record signing Kenwyne Jones while Andy Wilkinson gets his first league start of the season. Ricardo Fuller drops to a bench that also features goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, who has recently been the subject of a controversial pursuit by the Blues."
1446: WOLVES v NEWCASTLE:
Les Roopanarine reports: "Mick McCarthy makes just one change to the Wolves side which drew 1-1 at Everton last Saturday, with Belgian international Jelle Van Damme replacing George Elokobi at left-back. Michael Mancienne, who arrived this week on loan from Chelsea for a third season, is named on the bench, where he is joined by Steven Fletcher, who has recovered from a foot injury. Chris Hughton names the same Newcastle side that eviscerated Aston Villa 6-0 at St James' Park on Sunday."
1444: TOTTENHAM v WIGAN:
Owen Phillips reports: "Jermain Defoe starts up front for Tottenham despite ongoing concerns about his groin injury. Defoe's inclusion is one of three changes to the side which beat Stoke in their last league match with keeper Carlo Cudicini replacing the injured Heurelho Gomes and Ledley King returning to the defence. Wigan manager Roberto Martinez keeps faith with the nine of the side that did so well against Chelsea for 30 minutes of their last league game before their second-half collapse. Charles N'Zogbia is left out despite failing to finalise a move to Birmingham and keeper Chris Kirkland misses out so Ali Al Habsi and defender Emerson Boyce both get the nod."
1443: BLACKPOOL v FULHAM:
Phil McNulty at Bloomfield Road reports: "David Stockdale continues in goal for Fulham as Mark Schwarzer waits to see if he gets a move to Arsenal, while Paul Konchesky is missing and on the brink of a move to Liverpool. Luke Varney makes his Blackpool debut after signing on a season-long loan from Derby and Brett Ormerod returns with Marlon Harewood out injured."
ganeshviyer on Twitter: "My man of the match has to be Bacary Sagna... superb defensive work and set up the winner."
Full time
1439: FULL-TIME BLACKBURN 1-2 ARSENAL:
A clinical and deserved victory in the end for Arsenal, who coped admirably well with Blackburn's raids for the most part. Encouragement for Rovers, though, for sure.
90+1mins: Blackburn launch two appeals for a penalty at one end - both optimistic, I think - and Arsenal break. It is worked to Jack Wilshere, unmarked, at the back post and he should be making it 3-1 all day long - but his shot if soft and it is scrambled around the post by Rovers keeper Paul Robinson. Is there time for a Blackburn rally?
1435: BLACKPOOL v FULHAM:
Blackpool: Gilks, Baptiste, Cathcart, Evatt, Crainey, Ormerod, Vaughan, Adam, Grandin, Varney, Taylor-Fletcher. Subs: Halstead, Eardley, Basham, Euell, Sylvestre, Demontagnac, Keinan.
Fulham: Stockdale, Pantsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Kelly, Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Duff, Zamora, Dembele. Subs: Zuberbuhler, Baird, Gera, Riise, Dempsey, Greening, Briggs.
Referee: Michael Oliver (Northumberland)
88 mins: ...Morten Gamst Pedersen's corner is excellently defended at the near post, though. Chance gone.
88 mins: Only a couple of minutes remaining but while Arsenal are keeping the ball nicely for the majority, Blackburn have got themselves a corner...
1432: WOLVES v NEWCASTLE:
Wolverhampton: Hahnemann, Foley, Craddock, Berra, Ward, Jarvis, Henry, David Jones, Van Damme, Ebanks-Blake, Doyle. Subs: Hennessey, Edwards, Stearman, Fletcher, Mancienne, Zubar, Guedioura.
Newcastle: Harper, Perch, Williamson, Coloccini, Jose Enrique, Routledge, Smith, Barton, Gutierrez, Nolan, Carroll. Subs: Krul, Lovenkrands, Ryan Taylor, Ameobi, Kadar, Vuckic, Ranger.
Referee: Stuart Attwell (Warwickshire)
1431: CHELSEA v STOKE:
Chelsea: Cech, Paulo Ferreira, Alex, Terry, Cole, Essien, Mikel, Lampard, Anelka, Drogba, Malouda. Subs: Turnbull, Ramires, Benayoun, Zhirkov, Kalou, Sturridge, Van Aanholt.
Stoke: Sorensen, Huth, Shawcross, Faye, Collins, Delap, Whitehead, Wilkinson, Etherington, Jones, Walters. Subs: Begovic, Higginbotham, Whelan, Fuller, Pugh, Sanli, Tonge.
Referee: Martin Atkinson (W Yorkshire)
85 mins: Theo Walcott's not happy as he slides into the net for what he thinks is a third - but the whistle had long gone for offside. And possibly handball, too. I'm not sure. Either way, no goal is just about the right decision.
84 mins: Jack Wilshere is on to replace Andrey Arshavin for Arsenal. Steven Nzonzi came on a few moments ago for Blackburn, by the way.
82 mins: While it remains only 2-1... Rovers substitute David Dunn evades a couple of Arsenal challenges just inside the box and makes space to get off a shot, but it is straight at Manuel Almunia, who gratefully saves.

1426: TOTTENHAM v WIGAN:
Tottenham: Cudicini, Kaboul, Dawson, King, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon, Huddlestone, Palacios, Bale, Crouch, Defoe. Subs: Alnwick, Jenas, Pavlyuchenko, Keane, Giovani, Bassong, Kranjcar.
Wigan: Al Habsi, Stam, Gohouri, Alcaraz, Figueroa, Thomas, Diame, McCarthy, Boyce, Rodallega, Boselli. Subs: Pollitt, Watson, Steven Caldwell, Gomez, McArthur, McManaman, Mustoe.
Referee: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire)
79 mins: Marouane Chamakh takes his chances from a Blackburn throw-in, clearly man-handling Christopher Samba as the ball drifts over the pair's heads, but the home defender makes little fuss and referee Chris Foy is certainly not interested in giving a penalty.
78 mins: And that was almost it, Theo Walcott driving a stinging shot at goal from 20 yards, the ball zipping narrowly over Paul Robinson's fingers and, more importantly, the Blackburn keeper's crossbar.
oliverhj84 on Twitter: "I've got a feeling Arsenal need another to claim all three points here."

76 mins: El Hadji Diouf almost finds Mame Diouf dashing into the Arsenal box with a delicious pass, but across gets Bacary Sagna brilliantly to clear - taking a whack on his ankle for his troubles.
Yellow card
74 mins: Unbelievably, we're 74 minutes into the match, and that's our first booking. Theo Walcott skins Gael Givet down the Arsenal right and the Rovers defender cynically trips the winger, accepting his booking with a brief apology.
1416: BBC Sport's David Dulin at Portsmouth v Cardiff reports: "The sun is shining at Fratton Park as 2008 FA Cup finalists Portsmouth and Cardiff meet in the Championship. It's the first time the two sides have met since Pompey won 1-0 at Wembley, and since then, both clubs have suffered much-publicised financial problems, although Cardiff appear to be turning the corner. Craig Bellamy captains the Bluebirds as they seek revenge for the cup final defeat. Pompey are just pleased to still have captain Marc Wilson at the club, and he starts, but there is no Kanu, he has still to sign his three-year contract."
68 mins: He's still not match fit, obviously, and off comes Cesc Fabregas to be replaced by Tomas Rosicky. Manuel Almunia - yes, Manuel Almunia - takes over the captain's armband. I wonder how Mark Schwarzer would feel if he saw that?
64 mins: Back at Ewood Park and it is still very even. Arsenal are certainly dominating possession, but Blackburn continue to threaten on occasion on the counter-attack. Rovers, meanwhile, bring Martin Olssen on for Nikola Kalinic, who has looked good today.
The Understudy-Barry Bannan IS Bananaman on 606: "Aah, the Premier League. Who'd swap it for any other European League?? I wouldn't. It doesn't matter if the Spanish sides play better football, the Premier League is the league for me."
1406: WOLVES v NEWCASTLE:
Les Roopanarine reports: "Newcastle must feel they can do no wrong just now. On Sunday they inflicted a six-goal mauling on Aston Villa, while in midweek a second-string side made sure-footed progress over the potential banana skin of a Carling Cup trip to Accrington Stanley. History suggests a visit to Molineux, where they have not win since April 1990, will be considerably tougher. After securing survival last year, Wolves are adjusting nicely to Premier League life and will be eager to maintain their unbeaten record this term after winning just five league home games in 2009/10."
1405: TOTTENHAM v WIGAN:
Owen Phillips reports: "A Tottenham side brimming with confidence after an unbeaten league start and buoyed by their progress into the Champions League group stages - with mouthwatering games against Inter Milan to come - face a Wigan side whose recent record is, frankly, worse than pathetic. The Latics were thumped 4-0 and 6-0 in the opening two home league fixtures. And the last away game of last season saw them hammered 8-0. Oh, and they lost 9-1 at Spurs last time they played there. So, surely an away win?"
1404: CHELSEA v STOKE:
Kevin Darling reports: "Complete the sequence: 4, 7, 1, 7, 8, 6, ? Don't worry, it's not maths homework, it's just the ridiculous number of goals Chelsea have scored in their last six home league games. And the man trying to solve the problem today is Stoke manager Tony Pulis, whose side arrive at fortress Stamford Bridge after a point-less start to the season. Can the Potters produce some magic, or are the in-form Blues going to do a number on them?"
1403: BLACKPOOL v FULHAM:
Phil McNulty at Bloomfield Road reports: "Blackpool welcome top-tier football back to Bloomfield Road for the first time in 39 years, a feat understandably described in the match programme as "the biggest fairytale in modern British football history." Manager Ian Holloway will hope the visit of Fulham allows them licence to play as they did in the 4-0 win at Wigan as opposed to the 6-0 thrashing at Arsenal. Fulham have made a solid start under new boss Mark Hughes against Bolton and Manchester United - so they will be hoping to spoil the day this entire town has been waiting for."
1402: Right, time for us to go around the grounds I think...
56 mins: That's what I mean... Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen makes a right hash of a Blackburn through-ball and Nikola Kalinic gets clear in the box, only to fire his effort high over Manuel Almunia's goal. The hosts bring David Dunn on for Vince Grella.
55 mins: Now, let's not write Blackburn off just yet - they have caused Arsenal problems all afternoon - but Marouane Chamakh goes close to extending Arsenal's lead with a shot from the edge of the area that flies, in the end, a good couple of yards wide. Should've done better, the substitute.
1400: BREAKING TRANSFER NEWS:
Newcastle have announced the signing of Hatem Ben Arfa on an initial season-long loan deal from Marseille.
Goooooooaaaaaaaaal
Arsenal goal: I was just about to write how quiet he has been so far but Andrey Arshavin has just given Arsenal the lead, sweeping home after Cesc Fabregas's initial shot from Bacary Sagna's cross is blocked. Advantage Gunners again.
51 mins: GOALFLASH Blackburn 1-2 Arsenal (Arshavin)
50 mins: Morten Gamst Pedersen pings in the first real effort on goal of the second half from around 25 yards, but it swings over the bar.
shivamLM on Twitter: "Big Sam gets the best out of players. David Dunn, Salgado, Hierro, Campo - I named my fantasy team in honour of the big man."
Logos on 606: "Haha, a true net-buster from Walcott. Never seen that before."
1350: Right - after the net is fixed at one end, having been punctured by Theo Walcott's fierce first-half finish, we're back up and running at Ewood Park.
1348: Football League Danny: "(See 1342) It is, of course, Torquay who have the other Football League 100% record and they will take that to a Port Vale side which is unbeaten in the League but bruised from a midweek Carling Cup 6-0 thrashing at Fulham. Meanwhile, fans of teams beginning with "B" might like to check out Barnet v Bury - the Bees were stung by Crewe last week, losing 7-0. Can they bounce back?"
goonersammy via text: "Robin van Persie did well there! 30 minutes of football, see him in April."
1345: Football League Danny: "League One hot-shot Rickie Lambert visits his former club as Southampton make the relatively short trip to Bristol Rovers. Speaking of hot shots, Bournemouth have netted eight in their last two matches and will hope to keep that going against an inconsistent Notts County side. And fans of teams beginning with "P" will squeal with delight as Plymouth host Peterborough."
iamshearer on Twitter: "Is Robin van Persie the new Darren Anderton?"
1342: Cracking half of football, that. So good, in fact, we could all do with a Premier League breather. So I introduce to you for the first time today... Football League Danny: "Championship leaders QPR take one of two remaining 100% Football League records (guess the other) to a Derby team looking to ignite their season. Cardiff travel to Portsmouth with Craig Bellamy looking to build on last week's fine debut. Bristol City unveil a new-look Jon Stead and Brett Pitman-bolstered front line at Ipswich, and fans of teams beginning with "N" will relish the prospect of Nottingham Forest v Norwich."
captainconehead on Twitter: "Good half for Rovers, Arsenal have look rattled at times. Walcott looks dangerous but David Dunn could come on to make the difference in the second half."
BBC Radio 5 Live
Kevin Gallagher on BBC Radio 5 live: "Arsene Wenger doesn't like Sam Allardyce and he doesn't like Blackburn Rovers. It's been going on for far too long now. Okay they're on the edge, but playing long-ball football is within the rules."
Hodgey on 606: "Robin van Persie injured? It actually beggars belief how many Arsenal players get injured so often. There must be something to explain it behind the scenes?"
Half time
1334: HALF-TIME BLACKBURN 1-1 ARSENAL:
Mandeep Sanghera's one-line HT report: "A great game as two styles clash. Fast and furious and perfectly poised."
45 mins: The latest on Robin van Persie, by the way, is that his ankle - not the one he injured last year - has swollen up and it is being iced as we speak. Scan on Monday.
44 mins: Theo Walcott shows good strength inside the box to force a corner, but Blackburn keeper Paul Robinson forces his way through a crowd of players to punch the resulting set-piece clear impressively. Moments later he gets out sharply to save at the feet of Abou Diaby.
39 mins: Arsenal move the ball about oh-so typically nicely, but Abou Diaby's long-range effort at the end of it is blocked and Blackburn clear.
Hindawyyy on Twitter: "Re: Infostrada and all that - what happened to betting by instinct and losing all your money?!"
I like it. Old school.
35 mins: Yep, here comes new-boy Marouane Chamakh on for the injured Dutchman.
33 mins: Manuel Almunia has his critics, I think it's fair to say, but he's done pretty well under the high ball so far today, and this time he comes almost all the way to the edge of his box to punch another long ball clear. Robin van Persie looks like he's going to have to come off, here, he is lying prostrate on the ground and clutching his ankle. It looks like he tweaked it in a challenge with Phil Jones.
31 mins: I don't want to unnecessarily worry Arsenal fans, but Infostrada Sports tell me that the last time Arsenal took the lead in a Premier League away match they went on to lose - 2-1 at Ewood Park against Blackburn on May 3. Omen?
Video Didnt Kill The Radio Star - Eboue Did on 606: "Really bad defending, Koscielny was all over the place."
Goooooooaaaaaaaaal
Blackburn goal: We're level and few could argue Blackburn don't deserve it. Chris Samba sets El Hadji Diouf down the left, the Rovers man shrugging off Laurent Koscielny and cutting back for Mame Diouf, on his first Premier League start, to tap in the equaliser.
27 mins: GOALFLASH Blackburn 1-1 Arsenal (Diouf)
Applemask on 606: "Capello has to play Theo on Friday. He's in the form of several people's lives."
24 mins: Three last week, another this - I wonder if it will be enough to earn Alan Hansen's praise? One thing's for sure, Theo Walcott has to be in Fabio Capello's England squad when it's named tomorrow.
Goooooooaaaaaaaaal
Arsenal goal: Super football, sublime finish. Robin van Persie provides the killer pass and Theo Walcott gets his head up and drills an unstoppable low shot across Paul Robinson and in off the far post from the angle. Are you watching Fabio Capello?
20 mins: GOALFLASH Blackburn 0-1 Arsenal (Walcott)
19 mins: Arsenal looking dangerous every time they attack, but Blackburn causing plenty of problems in the final third themselves as an El Hadji Diouf pass across the box is well cleared. This match started under sunshine - it's now tipping it down.
halfbear on Twitter: "Wish I hadn't seen that Hypercube/ Infostrada thing - I want to know more now!! It's delightfully geeky!"
17 mins: Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas is hobbling around uncomfortably at the moment, will keep you posted on that. Meanwhile, Arsenal are again beaten to the ball from a Morten Gamst Pedersen corner, but Christopher Samba can only direct his header over the bar from six yards out. A waste.
14 mins: Alex Song, by the way, is sporting a blonde barnet today. Very Abel Xavier. In a looks-moderately-ridiculous-to-me-but-then-I'm-not-very-down-with-the-kids way.
12 mins: Lovely football from Arsenal, Cesc Fabregas slipping Theo Walcott in inside the Rovers area and Christopher Samba does well to clear the ball on the slide. Real end-to-end stuff, this.
10 mins: Off the line! They're still not looking comfortable under these Blackburn set-pieces, Arsenal, and Cesc Fabregas does brilliantly to head Ryan Nelsen's goalbound header from a Morten Gamst Pedersen header off the line. Moments later Christopher Samba's header from a long throw causes yet more havoc in the Arsenal box and keeper Manuel Almunia does well to push it away. I think it is fair to say this is the ultimate clash in styles.
1252: Well that has pulled out some beauties hasn't it?! Ties will be played in the week commencing 20 September. Stick that in your sandwich and eat it.
1250: The Carling Cup third-round draw:
Brentford v Everton
Portsmouth v Leicester City
Stoke City v Fulham
Chelsea v Newcastle United
Aston Villa v Blackburn Rovers
Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal
Millwall v Ipswich Town
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Notts County
Burnley v Bolton Wanderers
Birmingham City v MK Dons
Liverpool v Northampton Town
Scunthorpe United v Manchester United
West Bromwich Albion v Manchester City
Sunderland v West Ham United
Peterborough United v Swansea City
Wigan Athletic v Preston North End
5 mins: Another long ball from Blackburn travels 80 yards and is allowed to bounce in the Arsenal box - that won't please Arsene Wenger. Lively start at Ewood Park.
4 mins: How has that not gone in for Arsenal? A corner falls to Abou Diaby on the edge of the box and his shot is deflected two yards out by Vince Grella, straight at keeper Paul Robinson, and the ball ricochets away from goal. Lucky escape.
1248: Early highlights from the Carling Cup third-round draw as it is happening... Tottenham v Arsenal, Chelsea v Newcastle, West Brom v Man City.
2 mins: Well that didn't take long. Blackburn keeper Paul Robinson lines up a goal kick and launches it direct into the Arsenal box - it causes a few problems as well, before Laurent Koscielny hacks clear.
1246: Arsenal get us up and running.
1244: The players are out and about at Ewood Park and we're moments away from kick-off.
Simon via text: "Team selected today by Wenger shows the strength in depth. Solid and durable today with a physical spine for once. I expect a Gunners win - 3.0."
1241: Some worrying news reaching me - apparently Hull City's manager Nigel Pearson has been admitted to hospital for tests after complaining of feeling unwell yesterday. He had been due to take the city squad to Doncaster Rovers for this afternoon's Championship game, but his place will be taken by his deputy Craig Shakespeare now instead. Here's hoping all is well for you, Nigel.
1239: Muchos apologias, I'm still awaiting news of the draw . I promise to put you all out of your misery as soon as I can. Before that, here are today's managers. Rovers boss Sam Allardyce: "We have a big task but we are looking forward to it. I think conditions are perfect for football. It's not too hot and a slick surface." Arsenal counterpart Arsene Wenger: "You face always commitment and determination (when you come here) and you want to be able to show you can deal with that. Our target is to have the ball and when we do so we can dictate the play."
Chris in Basingstoke via text: "I bet there's an all-Premier League tie in the Carling Cup third round where the exact same fixture in the league is either the weekend before or after... just you watch."
What an obscure - but utterly brilliant - bet that is. Well done.
Hopalong9984 on Twitter: "Stern Test for the Gunners today. Confidence should be high, but a crunch from Big Chris Samba might change all that!"
1233: Anyone wondering what the Hypercube/Infostrada Sports Euro Club Index makes of today's fixtures? Well wonder no more...
Blackburn (rank 62) v Arsenal (7): 27% B'burn, 47% Arsenal win
Blackpool (263) v Fulham (50): 25% Blackpool, 50% Fulham
Chelsea (3) v Stoke City (120): 85% Chelsea, 4% Stoke
Tottenham (16) v Wigan (196): 74% Tottenham, 9% Wigan
Wolves (176) v Newcastle (96): 40% Wolves, 33% Newcastle
Man Utd (2) v West Ham (148): 87% Man Utd, 4% West Ham
So that's cleared that all up for you, hasn't it.
1227: Looks like the draw for the Carling Cup third round is running a little late, news as I get it...
Anon via text: "(Newcastle defender) Steven Taylor spotted chatting to Arsene Wenger at Ewood Park."
MUFC_4_E3VER on 606: "I see Mame Diouf gets a start for Blackburn, that's very nice to see."
1222: BLACKBURN v ARSENAL:
Mandeep Sanghera reports: "Blackburn make two changes from their league defeat at Birmingham last week. Striker Mame Biram Diouf comes into the side after his midweek hat-trick against Norwich in the Carling Cup, while midfielder Vince Grella also starts. Martin Olsson and Steven Nzonzi drop to the bench. Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas and striker Robin van Persie make their first starts of the season and centre-back Laurent Koscielny comes back into the Gunners side after suspension. Midfield duo Jack Wilshere and Tomas Rosicky, as well as forward Marouane Chamakh, make way from the side that beat Blackpool 6-0 last week."
kypzethdurron on Twitter: "I just saw Kaka in Blackpool, FACT. Off to Fulham for him them..."
SimplyZola on 606: "Paul Jewell has been approached for the Aston Villa manager, according to rumours."
1214: BLACKBURN v ARSENAL:
Blackburn: Robinson, Salgado, Nelsen, Samba, Givet, El-Hadji Diouf, Jones, Pedersen, Grella, Mame Diouf, Kalinic. Subs: Bunn, Olsson, Emerton, Dunn, Nzonzi, Hoilett, Chimbonda.
Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Koscielny, Vermaelen, Clichy, Diaby, Song, Fabregas, Walcott, van Persie, Arshavin. Subs: Fabianski, Rosicky, Vela, Wilshere, Eboue, Gibbs, Chamakh.
Referee: Chris Foy (Merseyside)
1211: We were sorting out our Deadline Day plans, yesterday, and we'll have a right royal treat for you Tuesday. Myself, Jonathan Stevenson and Paul Fletcher will be chatting you through all the latest rumours, news and transfers from dawn until dusk - and I expect you all to get involved in a massive way. With James Milner having finally joined Manchester City, Javier Mascherano set to leave Liverpool, and Champions League new-boys Tottenham's money burning a hole in Harry Redknapp's pocket, I'm predicting a whirlwind of action over the next few days.
its_tron on Twitter: "Is it wrong to be scared of a shock result at Old Trafford today? Mmm... 2-1 to Hammers maybe?!"
Ollie via text: "Apparently Eric Djemba Djemba has been seen near Fulham Broadway tube - you heard it here first!"
I want to see Iniesta on a rugby field on 606: "I'd love to see Fabiano in the Premier League. He's a seriously good player."
1206: BLACKBURN v ARSENAL:
Mandeep Sanghera reports: "Are Arsene Wenger's Arsenal up to the physical task of challenging for the Premier League title? Well, we are about to find out as they face a Blackburn side sure to get stuck in and who beat the Gunners 2-1 at Ewood Park in May. Arsenal's last away win came in March, while Blackburn's home record in the league last season saw them hold Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool as they lost just three times. There's no love lost between Wenger and Rovers boss Sam Allardyce so let battle commence."
Ali, Los Angeles, via text: "Gone are the days we are bullied, so I'm expecting a 3-0 win today, a clean sheet is crucial. Come on Arsenal!!"
Amir Mir on 606: "I think there will be easy wins for Chelsea, United and Spurs. We'll get a goal feast at Blackpool, Wolves will nick a win against Newcastle and Arsenal will be held to a frustrating 2-2 draw at Blackburn."
1201: And, on top of all those, we've got Football League Danny on hand to bring you all the latest from the lower divisions, as well as the Carling Cup third-round draw at around 1215 BST. The likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham join the competition at this stage so plenty of interest for everyone involved. Especially if you're keen on your side's youth team getting a run out on a chilly winter's Wednesday night. Lovely.
Royal Blue Hakuren on 606: "Sam, for us Evertonians you just know that this is not particularly exciting period! C'mon Blackburn, prove that it is still a man's game. Send Whinger packing."
1157: Now then, we've got an absolutely bumper line-up today... check out these bad boys in the Premier League for starters:
Blackburn v Arsenal 1245
Blackpool v Fulham 1500
Chelsea v Stoke 1500
Tottenham v Wigan 1500
Wolves v Newcastle 1500
Manchester United v West Ham 1730
sab316 on Twitter: "There's nothing like waking up on a Saturday morning anticipating some football. Rooney give me that hat-trick, fantasy footy."
gunner-zp on 606: "Come on you Gunners! Just hope we can grind out a win."
1153: And, in the mix of all that rumour-mongering, I might even find time to talk you through today's football, how does that sound? This commentary will be nothing, however, without you good people getting waist-deep in it with me. You know the drill, crank up the chat on 606, you can text me on 81111 (UK) or +44 7786200666 (worldwide) with FOOTBALL before your message, and you can even tweet me on Twitter. Anything and everything goes. As long as, you know, it's not rude and it's football related. Obviously.
1149: Transfer Deadline Day. Man, I love it. In some ways today's football is a mere slice of misdirection as we all look for transfer clues in and around the grounds, isn't it? Someone spots Luis Fabiano at White Hart Lane, another catches a glimpse of Robbie Keane at Molineux, one man reports that they've spotted the Blackburn tea lady in a heated discussion on a mobile phone outside Mill Hill Station. Awesome. I am absolutely all over that kind of chat today.
1145: You know, what with there being 78 hours and 15 minutes left until the Premier League transfer window shuts, today could be the last time you see your team in its current guise if you think about it. Players could be coming in, players could be leaving - let's just hope the 'Generation of 28 August 2010' make the most of it, yeah?
news - Aug 28, 2010
 
Football League Danny: "What a hoot for the Owls. Neil Mellor has put them 3-0 up at Hartlepool and they are only half-way through the first half. On course for 12-0 there."
1523: Like their manager Ian Holloway, Blackpool are full of personality. Impressive on-loan debutant Luke Varney cleverly wriggles between a couple of dozing Fulham defenders on the edge of the area before lashing a rising left-footed shot just the wrong side of David Stockdale's post.
1521: Cracking save at White Hart Lane, where Jermain Defoe spins and shoots brilliantly inside the box, only to watch Ali Al Habsi get down low to push away a reaction save.
BBC Sport's chief football writer Phil McNulty at Bloomfield Road: "Lively start by Blackpool in their first home game since returning to the top-flight after 39 years, sticking to manager Ian Holloway's insistence on a passing game. They have had the better of it so far - and thought they had taken the lead through Brett Ormerod's header. A very offside Brett Ormerod."
stokeymad on 606: "Nobody in football is better at saving penalties than Sorenson."
BBC Sport's David Dulin at Portsmouth v Cardiff: "Slow start but now opening up both side have had chances. Pompey's Marc Wilson has a 30-yard free-kick tipped over by David Marshall, while Craig Bellamy curls an effort wide on the break which has spurred on the visitors."
1516: Disallowed. Brett Ormerod thinks he has handed Blackpool a deserved lead at Bloomfield Road, but his header from a deep free-kick is cleary offside.
1515: Chelsea continue to pile on the pressure against Stoke and Thomas Sorensen has to be alert to beat away a swerving Didier Drogba free-kick from range. Bizarrely, the Potters have actually had a couple of chances here. Open game.
Football League Danny: "Hull, with Craig Shakespeare deputising for the unwell Nigel Pearson (get well soon Nigel), are drawing 1-1 at Doncaster. A very early goal (just 62 seconds in) from Donny's Martin Woods has been cancelled out by Nick Barmby. Elsewhere, Torquay's bid to keep their 100% record intact has begun well - they're 1-0 up at Port Vale."
Someone has won a penalty
Chelsea missed penalty: Ryan Shawcross does his best to ruin what has been a fairly positive start for Stoke by bringing Florent Malouda down in the box and Martin Atkinson has no alternative but to award the penalty. Frank Lampard's effort is poor, though, and Thomas Sorensen gets down to his left well to save.
1511: PENALTY SAVED (Chelsea)
1510: PENALTY TO CHELSEA
Stoychers on Twitter: "Edgar Davids. Crystal Palace. Left Back. Glanford Park. Where do we even begin with that?"
Someone has struck the woodwork
1508: They don't come much closer than that. Antolin Alcaraz heads a Wigan corner back across goal and Steve Gohouri volleys goalwards only to watch it crash off the crossbar. Moments later Benoit Assou-Ekotto is caught in possession on the edge of his own area and is grateful to Michael Dawson for the clearance. Sloppy start from Spurs, this.
1507: Newcastle look like they've picked up from where they left off against Villa, dominating possession and pegging Wolves back in their own half in these early stages.
1505: Ominous opening again from the hosts at Stamford Bridge where a delightful Michael Essien through-ball finds Ashley Cole clear on goal, the left-back pulling his shot across goal and past the far post, though.
1503: Cracking effort at Blackpool from home debutant Luke Varney, the frontman dipping a volley at goal and forcing David Stockdale into a smart stop.
1502: First shot in anger of the 1500 kick-offs and it comes at White Hart Lane, where Wigan have made a positive start. Hugo Rodallega fizzes a shot goalwards from range, the ball flying past Carlo Cudicini's post.
1501: And we're up and running at Molineux, White Hart Lane and Stamford Bridge too.
1459: No messing about at Bloomfield Road as Blackpool v Fulham gets under way.
1458: If you haven't done so already people, give this page a manual refresh would you? Do so and Final Score will appear before your eyes at the top of this page. Happy days.
Robsoninho on 606: "Well there should realistically be two 6-0's today, with the outside possibility of a 6-0 later on."
Go easy on the optimism pal, I can't handle the pressure.
1456: So that's gauntlet thrown down by Arsenal, who now top the league (albeit after three games, one more than most of the rest of the league) - can their rivals respond? Let's find out shall we? We're minutes away from the 1500 kick-offs.
1452: BLACKBURN 1-2 ARSENAL:
Mandeep Sanghera reports: "Arsenal showed they have the steel to match their undoubted style as they overcome a Blackburn side difficult to beat, especially at home. Job done."
Adamlapthorn on Twitter: "People said these were the sort of games Arsenal had to learn to win to take the title, so lesson learnt?"
1447: CHELSEA v STOKE:
Kevin Darling reports: "Not much tinkering needed for Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti after successive 6-0 wins but there's one enforced change at right-back as Paulo Ferreira comes in for the injured Branislav Ivanovic. New £17m signing Ramires is on the Blues bench. Stoke are boosted by the return of record signing Kenwyne Jones while Andy Wilkinson gets his first league start of the season. Ricardo Fuller drops to a bench that also features goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, who has recently been the subject of a controversial pursuit by the Blues."
1446: WOLVES v NEWCASTLE:
Les Roopanarine reports: "Mick McCarthy makes just one change to the Wolves side which drew 1-1 at Everton last Saturday, with Belgian international Jelle Van Damme replacing George Elokobi at left-back. Michael Mancienne, who arrived this week on loan from Chelsea for a third season, is named on the bench, where he is joined by Steven Fletcher, who has recovered from a foot injury. Chris Hughton names the same Newcastle side that eviscerated Aston Villa 6-0 at St James' Park on Sunday."
1444: TOTTENHAM v WIGAN:
Owen Phillips reports: "Jermain Defoe starts up front for Tottenham despite ongoing concerns about his groin injury. Defoe's inclusion is one of three changes to the side which beat Stoke in their last league match with keeper Carlo Cudicini replacing the injured Heurelho Gomes and Ledley King returning to the defence. Wigan manager Roberto Martinez keeps faith with the nine of the side that did so well against Chelsea for 30 minutes of their last league game before their second-half collapse. Charles N'Zogbia is left out despite failing to finalise a move to Birmingham and keeper Chris Kirkland misses out so Ali Al Habsi and defender Emerson Boyce both get the nod."
1443: BLACKPOOL v FULHAM:
Phil McNulty at Bloomfield Road reports: "David Stockdale continues in goal for Fulham as Mark Schwarzer waits to see if he gets a move to Arsenal, while Paul Konchesky is missing and on the brink of a move to Liverpool. Luke Varney makes his Blackpool debut after signing on a season-long loan from Derby and Brett Ormerod returns with Marlon Harewood out injured."
ganeshviyer on Twitter: "My man of the match has to be Bacary Sagna... superb defensive work and set up the winner."
Full time
1439: FULL-TIME BLACKBURN 1-2 ARSENAL:
A clinical and deserved victory in the end for Arsenal, who coped admirably well with Blackburn's raids for the most part. Encouragement for Rovers, though, for sure.
90+1mins: Blackburn launch two appeals for a penalty at one end - both optimistic, I think - and Arsenal break. It is worked to Jack Wilshere, unmarked, at the back post and he should be making it 3-1 all day long - but his shot if soft and it is scrambled around the post by Rovers keeper Paul Robinson. Is there time for a Blackburn rally?
1435: BLACKPOOL v FULHAM:
Blackpool: Gilks, Baptiste, Cathcart, Evatt, Crainey, Ormerod, Vaughan, Adam, Grandin, Varney, Taylor-Fletcher. Subs: Halstead, Eardley, Basham, Euell, Sylvestre, Demontagnac, Keinan.
Fulham: Stockdale, Pantsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Kelly, Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Duff, Zamora, Dembele. Subs: Zuberbuhler, Baird, Gera, Riise, Dempsey, Greening, Briggs.
Referee: Michael Oliver (Northumberland)
88 mins: ...Morten Gamst Pedersen's corner is excellently defended at the near post, though. Chance gone.
88 mins: Only a couple of minutes remaining but while Arsenal are keeping the ball nicely for the majority, Blackburn have got themselves a corner...
1432: WOLVES v NEWCASTLE:
Wolverhampton: Hahnemann, Foley, Craddock, Berra, Ward, Jarvis, Henry, David Jones, Van Damme, Ebanks-Blake, Doyle. Subs: Hennessey, Edwards, Stearman, Fletcher, Mancienne, Zubar, Guedioura.
Newcastle: Harper, Perch, Williamson, Coloccini, Jose Enrique, Routledge, Smith, Barton, Gutierrez, Nolan, Carroll. Subs: Krul, Lovenkrands, Ryan Taylor, Ameobi, Kadar, Vuckic, Ranger.
Referee: Stuart Attwell (Warwickshire)
1431: CHELSEA v STOKE:
Chelsea: Cech, Paulo Ferreira, Alex, Terry, Cole, Essien, Mikel, Lampard, Anelka, Drogba, Malouda. Subs: Turnbull, Ramires, Benayoun, Zhirkov, Kalou, Sturridge, Van Aanholt.
Stoke: Sorensen, Huth, Shawcross, Faye, Collins, Delap, Whitehead, Wilkinson, Etherington, Jones, Walters. Subs: Begovic, Higginbotham, Whelan, Fuller, Pugh, Sanli, Tonge.
Referee: Martin Atkinson (W Yorkshire)
85 mins: Theo Walcott's not happy as he slides into the net for what he thinks is a third - but the whistle had long gone for offside. And possibly handball, too. I'm not sure. Either way, no goal is just about the right decision.
84 mins: Jack Wilshere is on to replace Andrey Arshavin for Arsenal. Steven Nzonzi came on a few moments ago for Blackburn, by the way.
82 mins: While it remains only 2-1... Rovers substitute David Dunn evades a couple of Arsenal challenges just inside the box and makes space to get off a shot, but it is straight at Manuel Almunia, who gratefully saves.

1426: TOTTENHAM v WIGAN:
Tottenham: Cudicini, Kaboul, Dawson, King, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon, Huddlestone, Palacios, Bale, Crouch, Defoe. Subs: Alnwick, Jenas, Pavlyuchenko, Keane, Giovani, Bassong, Kranjcar.
Wigan: Al Habsi, Stam, Gohouri, Alcaraz, Figueroa, Thomas, Diame, McCarthy, Boyce, Rodallega, Boselli. Subs: Pollitt, Watson, Steven Caldwell, Gomez, McArthur, McManaman, Mustoe.
Referee: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire)
79 mins: Marouane Chamakh takes his chances from a Blackburn throw-in, clearly man-handling Christopher Samba as the ball drifts over the pair's heads, but the home defender makes little fuss and referee Chris Foy is certainly not interested in giving a penalty.
78 mins: And that was almost it, Theo Walcott driving a stinging shot at goal from 20 yards, the ball zipping narrowly over Paul Robinson's fingers and, more importantly, the Blackburn keeper's crossbar.
oliverhj84 on Twitter: "I've got a feeling Arsenal need another to claim all three points here."

76 mins: El Hadji Diouf almost finds Mame Diouf dashing into the Arsenal box with a delicious pass, but across gets Bacary Sagna brilliantly to clear - taking a whack on his ankle for his troubles.
Yellow card
74 mins: Unbelievably, we're 74 minutes into the match, and that's our first booking. Theo Walcott skins Gael Givet down the Arsenal right and the Rovers defender cynically trips the winger, accepting his booking with a brief apology.
1416: BBC Sport's David Dulin at Portsmouth v Cardiff reports: "The sun is shining at Fratton Park as 2008 FA Cup finalists Portsmouth and Cardiff meet in the Championship. It's the first time the two sides have met since Pompey won 1-0 at Wembley, and since then, both clubs have suffered much-publicised financial problems, although Cardiff appear to be turning the corner. Craig Bellamy captains the Bluebirds as they seek revenge for the cup final defeat. Pompey are just pleased to still have captain Marc Wilson at the club, and he starts, but there is no Kanu, he has still to sign his three-year contract."
68 mins: He's still not match fit, obviously, and off comes Cesc Fabregas to be replaced by Tomas Rosicky. Manuel Almunia - yes, Manuel Almunia - takes over the captain's armband. I wonder how Mark Schwarzer would feel if he saw that?
64 mins: Back at Ewood Park and it is still very even. Arsenal are certainly dominating possession, but Blackburn continue to threaten on occasion on the counter-attack. Rovers, meanwhile, bring Martin Olssen on for Nikola Kalinic, who has looked good today.
The Understudy-Barry Bannan IS Bananaman on 606: "Aah, the Premier League. Who'd swap it for any other European League?? I wouldn't. It doesn't matter if the Spanish sides play better football, the Premier League is the league for me."
1406: WOLVES v NEWCASTLE:
Les Roopanarine reports: "Newcastle must feel they can do no wrong just now. On Sunday they inflicted a six-goal mauling on Aston Villa, while in midweek a second-string side made sure-footed progress over the potential banana skin of a Carling Cup trip to Accrington Stanley. History suggests a visit to Molineux, where they have not win since April 1990, will be considerably tougher. After securing survival last year, Wolves are adjusting nicely to Premier League life and will be eager to maintain their unbeaten record this term after winning just five league home games in 2009/10."
1405: TOTTENHAM v WIGAN:
Owen Phillips reports: "A Tottenham side brimming with confidence after an unbeaten league start and buoyed by their progress into the Champions League group stages - with mouthwatering games against Inter Milan to come - face a Wigan side whose recent record is, frankly, worse than pathetic. The Latics were thumped 4-0 and 6-0 in the opening two home league fixtures. And the last away game of last season saw them hammered 8-0. Oh, and they lost 9-1 at Spurs last time they played there. So, surely an away win?"
1404: CHELSEA v STOKE:
Kevin Darling reports: "Complete the sequence: 4, 7, 1, 7, 8, 6, ? Don't worry, it's not maths homework, it's just the ridiculous number of goals Chelsea have scored in their last six home league games. And the man trying to solve the problem today is Stoke manager Tony Pulis, whose side arrive at fortress Stamford Bridge after a point-less start to the season. Can the Potters produce some magic, or are the in-form Blues going to do a number on them?"
1403: BLACKPOOL v FULHAM:
Phil McNulty at Bloomfield Road reports: "Blackpool welcome top-tier football back to Bloomfield Road for the first time in 39 years, a feat understandably described in the match programme as "the biggest fairytale in modern British football history." Manager Ian Holloway will hope the visit of Fulham allows them licence to play as they did in the 4-0 win at Wigan as opposed to the 6-0 thrashing at Arsenal. Fulham have made a solid start under new boss Mark Hughes against Bolton and Manchester United - so they will be hoping to spoil the day this entire town has been waiting for."
1402: Right, time for us to go around the grounds I think...
56 mins: That's what I mean... Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen makes a right hash of a Blackburn through-ball and Nikola Kalinic gets clear in the box, only to fire his effort high over Manuel Almunia's goal. The hosts bring David Dunn on for Vince Grella.
55 mins: Now, let's not write Blackburn off just yet - they have caused Arsenal problems all afternoon - but Marouane Chamakh goes close to extending Arsenal's lead with a shot from the edge of the area that flies, in the end, a good couple of yards wide. Should've done better, the substitute.
1400: BREAKING TRANSFER NEWS:
Newcastle have announced the signing of Hatem Ben Arfa on an initial season-long loan deal from Marseille.
Goooooooaaaaaaaaal
Arsenal goal: I was just about to write how quiet he has been so far but Andrey Arshavin has just given Arsenal the lead, sweeping home after Cesc Fabregas's initial shot from Bacary Sagna's cross is blocked. Advantage Gunners again.
51 mins: GOALFLASH Blackburn 1-2 Arsenal (Arshavin)
50 mins: Morten Gamst Pedersen pings in the first real effort on goal of the second half from around 25 yards, but it swings over the bar.
shivamLM on Twitter: "Big Sam gets the best out of players. David Dunn, Salgado, Hierro, Campo - I named my fantasy team in honour of the big man."
Logos on 606: "Haha, a true net-buster from Walcott. Never seen that before."
1350: Right - after the net is fixed at one end, having been punctured by Theo Walcott's fierce first-half finish, we're back up and running at Ewood Park.
1348: Football League Danny: "(See 1342) It is, of course, Torquay who have the other Football League 100% record and they will take that to a Port Vale side which is unbeaten in the League but bruised from a midweek Carling Cup 6-0 thrashing at Fulham. Meanwhile, fans of teams beginning with "B" might like to check out Barnet v Bury - the Bees were stung by Crewe last week, losing 7-0. Can they bounce back?"
goonersammy via text: "Robin van Persie did well there! 30 minutes of football, see him in April."
1345: Football League Danny: "League One hot-shot Rickie Lambert visits his former club as Southampton make the relatively short trip to Bristol Rovers. Speaking of hot shots, Bournemouth have netted eight in their last two matches and will hope to keep that going against an inconsistent Notts County side. And fans of teams beginning with "P" will squeal with delight as Plymouth host Peterborough."
iamshearer on Twitter: "Is Robin van Persie the new Darren Anderton?"
1342: Cracking half of football, that. So good, in fact, we could all do with a Premier League breather. So I introduce to you for the first time today... Football League Danny: "Championship leaders QPR take one of two remaining 100% Football League records (guess the other) to a Derby team looking to ignite their season. Cardiff travel to Portsmouth with Craig Bellamy looking to build on last week's fine debut. Bristol City unveil a new-look Jon Stead and Brett Pitman-bolstered front line at Ipswich, and fans of teams beginning with "N" will relish the prospect of Nottingham Forest v Norwich."
captainconehead on Twitter: "Good half for Rovers, Arsenal have look rattled at times. Walcott looks dangerous but David Dunn could come on to make the difference in the second half."
BBC Radio 5 Live
Kevin Gallagher on BBC Radio 5 live: "Arsene Wenger doesn't like Sam Allardyce and he doesn't like Blackburn Rovers. It's been going on for far too long now. Okay they're on the edge, but playing long-ball football is within the rules."
Hodgey on 606: "Robin van Persie injured? It actually beggars belief how many Arsenal players get injured so often. There must be something to explain it behind the scenes?"
Half time
1334: HALF-TIME BLACKBURN 1-1 ARSENAL:
Mandeep Sanghera's one-line HT report: "A great game as two styles clash. Fast and furious and perfectly poised."
45 mins: The latest on Robin van Persie, by the way, is that his ankle - not the one he injured last year - has swollen up and it is being iced as we speak. Scan on Monday.
44 mins: Theo Walcott shows good strength inside the box to force a corner, but Blackburn keeper Paul Robinson forces his way through a crowd of players to punch the resulting set-piece clear impressively. Moments later he gets out sharply to save at the feet of Abou Diaby.
39 mins: Arsenal move the ball about oh-so typically nicely, but Abou Diaby's long-range effort at the end of it is blocked and Blackburn clear.
Hindawyyy on Twitter: "Re: Infostrada and all that - what happened to betting by instinct and losing all your money?!"
I like it. Old school.
35 mins: Yep, here comes new-boy Marouane Chamakh on for the injured Dutchman.
33 mins: Manuel Almunia has his critics, I think it's fair to say, but he's done pretty well under the high ball so far today, and this time he comes almost all the way to the edge of his box to punch another long ball clear. Robin van Persie looks like he's going to have to come off, here, he is lying prostrate on the ground and clutching his ankle. It looks like he tweaked it in a challenge with Phil Jones.
31 mins: I don't want to unnecessarily worry Arsenal fans, but Infostrada Sports tell me that the last time Arsenal took the lead in a Premier League away match they went on to lose - 2-1 at Ewood Park against Blackburn on May 3. Omen?
Video Didnt Kill The Radio Star - Eboue Did on 606: "Really bad defending, Koscielny was all over the place."
Goooooooaaaaaaaaal
Blackburn goal: We're level and few could argue Blackburn don't deserve it. Chris Samba sets El Hadji Diouf down the left, the Rovers man shrugging off Laurent Koscielny and cutting back for Mame Diouf, on his first Premier League start, to tap in the equaliser.
27 mins: GOALFLASH Blackburn 1-1 Arsenal (Diouf)
Applemask on 606: "Capello has to play Theo on Friday. He's in the form of several people's lives."
24 mins: Three last week, another this - I wonder if it will be enough to earn Alan Hansen's praise? One thing's for sure, Theo Walcott has to be in Fabio Capello's England squad when it's named tomorrow.
Goooooooaaaaaaaaal
Arsenal goal: Super football, sublime finish. Robin van Persie provides the killer pass and Theo Walcott gets his head up and drills an unstoppable low shot across Paul Robinson and in off the far post from the angle. Are you watching Fabio Capello?
20 mins: GOALFLASH Blackburn 0-1 Arsenal (Walcott)
19 mins: Arsenal looking dangerous every time they attack, but Blackburn causing plenty of problems in the final third themselves as an El Hadji Diouf pass across the box is well cleared. This match started under sunshine - it's now tipping it down.
halfbear on Twitter: "Wish I hadn't seen that Hypercube/ Infostrada thing - I want to know more now!! It's delightfully geeky!"
17 mins: Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas is hobbling around uncomfortably at the moment, will keep you posted on that. Meanwhile, Arsenal are again beaten to the ball from a Morten Gamst Pedersen corner, but Christopher Samba can only direct his header over the bar from six yards out. A waste.
14 mins: Alex Song, by the way, is sporting a blonde barnet today. Very Abel Xavier. In a looks-moderately-ridiculous-to-me-but-then-I'm-not-very-down-with-the-kids way.
12 mins: Lovely football from Arsenal, Cesc Fabregas slipping Theo Walcott in inside the Rovers area and Christopher Samba does well to clear the ball on the slide. Real end-to-end stuff, this.
10 mins: Off the line! They're still not looking comfortable under these Blackburn set-pieces, Arsenal, and Cesc Fabregas does brilliantly to head Ryan Nelsen's goalbound header from a Morten Gamst Pedersen header off the line. Moments later Christopher Samba's header from a long throw causes yet more havoc in the Arsenal box and keeper Manuel Almunia does well to push it away. I think it is fair to say this is the ultimate clash in styles.
1252: Well that has pulled out some beauties hasn't it?! Ties will be played in the week commencing 20 September. Stick that in your sandwich and eat it.
1250: The Carling Cup third-round draw:
Brentford v Everton
Portsmouth v Leicester City
Stoke City v Fulham
Chelsea v Newcastle United
Aston Villa v Blackburn Rovers
Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal
Millwall v Ipswich Town
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Notts County
Burnley v Bolton Wanderers
Birmingham City v MK Dons
Liverpool v Northampton Town
Scunthorpe United v Manchester United
West Bromwich Albion v Manchester City
Sunderland v West Ham United
Peterborough United v Swansea City
Wigan Athletic v Preston North End
5 mins: Another long ball from Blackburn travels 80 yards and is allowed to bounce in the Arsenal box - that won't please Arsene Wenger. Lively start at Ewood Park.
4 mins: How has that not gone in for Arsenal? A corner falls to Abou Diaby on the edge of the box and his shot is deflected two yards out by Vince Grella, straight at keeper Paul Robinson, and the ball ricochets away from goal. Lucky escape.
1248: Early highlights from the Carling Cup third-round draw as it is happening... Tottenham v Arsenal, Chelsea v Newcastle, West Brom v Man City.
2 mins: Well that didn't take long. Blackburn keeper Paul Robinson lines up a goal kick and launches it direct into the Arsenal box - it causes a few problems as well, before Laurent Koscielny hacks clear.
1246: Arsenal get us up and running.
1244: The players are out and about at Ewood Park and we're moments away from kick-off.
Simon via text: "Team selected today by Wenger shows the strength in depth. Solid and durable today with a physical spine for once. I expect a Gunners win - 3.0."
1241: Some worrying news reaching me - apparently Hull City's manager Nigel Pearson has been admitted to hospital for tests after complaining of feeling unwell yesterday. He had been due to take the city squad to Doncaster Rovers for this afternoon's Championship game, but his place will be taken by his deputy Craig Shakespeare now instead. Here's hoping all is well for you, Nigel.
1239: Muchos apologias, I'm still awaiting news of the draw . I promise to put you all out of your misery as soon as I can. Before that, here are today's managers. Rovers boss Sam Allardyce: "We have a big task but we are looking forward to it. I think conditions are perfect for football. It's not too hot and a slick surface." Arsenal counterpart Arsene Wenger: "You face always commitment and determination (when you come here) and you want to be able to show you can deal with that. Our target is to have the ball and when we do so we can dictate the play."
Chris in Basingstoke via text: "I bet there's an all-Premier League tie in the Carling Cup third round where the exact same fixture in the league is either the weekend before or after... just you watch."
What an obscure - but utterly brilliant - bet that is. Well done.
Hopalong9984 on Twitter: "Stern Test for the Gunners today. Confidence should be high, but a crunch from Big Chris Samba might change all that!"
1233: Anyone wondering what the Hypercube/Infostrada Sports Euro Club Index makes of today's fixtures? Well wonder no more...
Blackburn (rank 62) v Arsenal (7): 27% B'burn, 47% Arsenal win
Blackpool (263) v Fulham (50): 25% Blackpool, 50% Fulham
Chelsea (3) v Stoke City (120): 85% Chelsea, 4% Stoke
Tottenham (16) v Wigan (196): 74% Tottenham, 9% Wigan
Wolves (176) v Newcastle (96): 40% Wolves, 33% Newcastle
Man Utd (2) v West Ham (148): 87% Man Utd, 4% West Ham
So that's cleared that all up for you, hasn't it.
1227: Looks like the draw for the Carling Cup third round is running a little late, news as I get it...
Anon via text: "(Newcastle defender) Steven Taylor spotted chatting to Arsene Wenger at Ewood Park."
MUFC_4_E3VER on 606: "I see Mame Diouf gets a start for Blackburn, that's very nice to see."
1222: BLACKBURN v ARSENAL:
Mandeep Sanghera reports: "Blackburn make two changes from their league defeat at Birmingham last week. Striker Mame Biram Diouf comes into the side after his midweek hat-trick against Norwich in the Carling Cup, while midfielder Vince Grella also starts. Martin Olsson and Steven Nzonzi drop to the bench. Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas and striker Robin van Persie make their first starts of the season and centre-back Laurent Koscielny comes back into the Gunners side after suspension. Midfield duo Jack Wilshere and Tomas Rosicky, as well as forward Marouane Chamakh, make way from the side that beat Blackpool 6-0 last week."
kypzethdurron on Twitter: "I just saw Kaka in Blackpool, FACT. Off to Fulham for him them..."
SimplyZola on 606: "Paul Jewell has been approached for the Aston Villa manager, according to rumours."
1214: BLACKBURN v ARSENAL:
Blackburn: Robinson, Salgado, Nelsen, Samba, Givet, El-Hadji Diouf, Jones, Pedersen, Grella, Mame Diouf, Kalinic. Subs: Bunn, Olsson, Emerton, Dunn, Nzonzi, Hoilett, Chimbonda.
Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Koscielny, Vermaelen, Clichy, Diaby, Song, Fabregas, Walcott, van Persie, Arshavin. Subs: Fabianski, Rosicky, Vela, Wilshere, Eboue, Gibbs, Chamakh.
Referee: Chris Foy (Merseyside)
1211: We were sorting out our Deadline Day plans, yesterday, and we'll have a right royal treat for you Tuesday. Myself, Jonathan Stevenson and Paul Fletcher will be chatting you through all the latest rumours, news and transfers from dawn until dusk - and I expect you all to get involved in a massive way. With James Milner having finally joined Manchester City, Javier Mascherano set to leave Liverpool, and Champions League new-boys Tottenham's money burning a hole in Harry Redknapp's pocket, I'm predicting a whirlwind of action over the next few days.
its_tron on Twitter: "Is it wrong to be scared of a shock result at Old Trafford today? Mmm... 2-1 to Hammers maybe?!"
Ollie via text: "Apparently Eric Djemba Djemba has been seen near Fulham Broadway tube - you heard it here first!"
I want to see Iniesta on a rugby field on 606: "I'd love to see Fabiano in the Premier League. He's a seriously good player."
1206: BLACKBURN v ARSENAL:
Mandeep Sanghera reports: "Are Arsene Wenger's Arsenal up to the physical task of challenging for the Premier League title? Well, we are about to find out as they face a Blackburn side sure to get stuck in and who beat the Gunners 2-1 at Ewood Park in May. Arsenal's last away win came in March, while Blackburn's home record in the league last season saw them hold Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool as they lost just three times. There's no love lost between Wenger and Rovers boss Sam Allardyce so let battle commence."
Ali, Los Angeles, via text: "Gone are the days we are bullied, so I'm expecting a 3-0 win today, a clean sheet is crucial. Come on Arsenal!!"
Amir Mir on 606: "I think there will be easy wins for Chelsea, United and Spurs. We'll get a goal feast at Blackpool, Wolves will nick a win against Newcastle and Arsenal will be held to a frustrating 2-2 draw at Blackburn."
1201: And, on top of all those, we've got Football League Danny on hand to bring you all the latest from the lower divisions, as well as the Carling Cup third-round draw at around 1215 BST. The likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham join the competition at this stage so plenty of interest for everyone involved. Especially if you're keen on your side's youth team getting a run out on a chilly winter's Wednesday night. Lovely.
Royal Blue Hakuren on 606: "Sam, for us Evertonians you just know that this is not particularly exciting period! C'mon Blackburn, prove that it is still a man's game. Send Whinger packing."
1157: Now then, we've got an absolutely bumper line-up today... check out these bad boys in the Premier League for starters:
Blackburn v Arsenal 1245
Blackpool v Fulham 1500
Chelsea v Stoke 1500
Tottenham v Wigan 1500
Wolves v Newcastle 1500
Manchester United v West Ham 1730
sab316 on Twitter: "There's nothing like waking up on a Saturday morning anticipating some football. Rooney give me that hat-trick, fantasy footy."
gunner-zp on 606: "Come on you Gunners! Just hope we can grind out a win."
1153: And, in the mix of all that rumour-mongering, I might even find time to talk you through today's football, how does that sound? This commentary will be nothing, however, without you good people getting waist-deep in it with me. You know the drill, crank up the chat on 606, you can text me on 81111 (UK) or +44 7786200666 (worldwide) with FOOTBALL before your message, and you can even tweet me on Twitter. Anything and everything goes. As long as, you know, it's not rude and it's football related. Obviously.
1149: Transfer Deadline Day. Man, I love it. In some ways today's football is a mere slice of misdirection as we all look for transfer clues in and around the grounds, isn't it? Someone spots Luis Fabiano at White Hart Lane, another catches a glimpse of Robbie Keane at Molineux, one man reports that they've spotted the Blackburn tea lady in a heated discussion on a mobile phone outside Mill Hill Station. Awesome. I am absolutely all over that kind of chat today.
1145: You know, what with there being 78 hours and 15 minutes left until the Premier League transfer window shuts, today could be the last time you see your team in its current guise if you think about it. Players could be coming in, players could be leaving - let's just hope the 'Generation of 28 August 2010' make the most of it, yeah?
Leeds United sign Ross McCormack - Aug 28, 2010
 

Leeds United sign Cardiff City striker Ross McCormack

Striker Ross McCormack
McCormack was Cardiff's top scorer with 24 goals in 2008/09

Leeds United have signed Scotland international striker Ross McCormack from Cardiff for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old, who has signed a three-year deal, could make his debut at Watford on Saturday.

He scored 33 goals in 88 appearances for the Bluebirds since joining from Motherwell for £110,000 in 2008.

Meanwhile, Leeds boss Simon Grayson has told BBC Radio Leeds that a potential move for Cardiff City's Gavin Rae has not gone pass the enquiry stage.

He said: "When I spoke to Dave about Ross McCormack he mentioned one or two others who might be available, but it was just an inquiry and that's all it has been."

Midfielder Rae, 32, spent 12 years in Scottish football with Dundee and Rangers before joining the Bluebirds on a free transfer from the latter in the summer of 2007.

He has since made 131 Cardiff appearances, scoring seven goals.

Barca sign Liverpool's Javier Mascherano - Aug 28, 2010
 

Liverpool have sold midfielder Javier Mascherano to Barcelona for about £17.25m, BBC Sport understands.

The deal is subject to the 26-year-old Argentina captain passing a medical with the Catalan giants.

Barcelona confirmed on their website: "The clubs have reached an agreement in principle for the transfer of Mascherano for the next four seasons."

"Barcelona will report the details once the player passes the medical and the transfer is concluded."

And the Barca statement continued: "The deal was closed after intensive efforts made by the club in the final hours and through the player himself in the negotiations.

"It is hoped Javier Mascherano will arrive in Barcelona this weekend."

Liverpool had been keen to recoup the £18m they paid for former River Plate midfielder Mascherano when he arrived from West Ham.

The Anfield outfit had rejected an initial bid of £16m from Barcelona seven days ago but he subsequently missed Monday's defeat by Manchester City and Thursday's trip to Trabzonspor, where Liverpool secured a place in the group stages of the Europa League with a 3-1 aggregate win.

Mascherano joined Liverpool from West Ham in 2007, initially on a loan deal that was turned into a four-year contract in 2008.

Barcelona failed in an attempt to lure him to Spain last summer but on his return from the World Cup in July, Mascherano made it clear he wanted to leave Anfield, saying his wife could not settle in England.

Since taking charge of Liverpool in July, manager Roy Hodgson had been eager to end the uncertainty surrounding Mascherano's future.

"I am seriously hoping that in the next couple of days it will be sorted out one way or another," stated Hodgson on Thursday. "Although I have no idea which way that will be."

Liverpool have also received a bid for Mascherano from Inter Milan, now coached by Hodgson's Reds predecessor Rafael Benitez.

But former Fulham boss Hodgson dismissed the offer from the Italian side saying: "We received a fax about Mascherano [from Inter], but it was a joke fax."

Meanwhile, Inter have also been linked with a move for Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt.

However, following the victory over Trabzonspor the Dutch World Cup finalist committed his future to Anfield.

"I have had a great time here so far and hope my future here will be great as well and that I can win trophies with Liverpool," said Kuyt.

Manchester City - Aug 28, 2010
 

Manchester City face a tough test in the Europa League group stage after they were drawn with Juventus.

As well as the Italian giants, Roberto Mancini's team also face Salzburg of Austria and Lech Poznan of Poland.

Liverpool had an unkind draw too, the Reds put into Group K along with Romania's Steaua Bucharest, Italy's Napoli and Utrecht of the Netherlands.

The draw saw the 48 clubs divided into 12 groups of four teams, with the top two from each set progressing.

Manchester City summer signing Mario Balotelli was the victim of racist abuse from Juventus supporters during his time as an Inter Milan player.

Two seasons ago Juve were ordered to play a home game behind closed doors after an incident aimed at Balotelli, who is of Ghanaian descent.


And during the last campaign the Serie A club banned several supporters after they chanted discriminatory remarks about Balotelli during a cup match against Napoli.

"I think a new season is a chance to show new behaviour, and to show also at a European level that the Italian supporters, or more particularly those of Juve, have understood the messages and the sanctions that were handed out," said Juventus general manager Jean-Claude Blanc.

"Supporting your team is to support your team, and not to make remarks of a racist nature toward other players. We will be extremely demanding and intransigent about this."

Brian Marwood, Manchester City's head of football administration, said: "Mario, like all of our players, I'm sure, will be relishing the opportunity.

"He's a young man with an incredibly bright future ahead of him and we will give him every support and help that he needs.

"We will leave it to the authorities to deal with anything that happens but we are not anticipating any issue."

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard admitted that the Europa League is not his club's top priority - but is confident the Reds will progress from the group stage.

"It's a strong group and I'm certainly looking forward to the games," said Gerrard.

"I'm confident we can get out of the group but it will be tough. I don't think the Europa League is the priority. Everybody knows that our league position, where we finish at the end of this year, is the priority.

"But it's another trophy, it's a big cup. We haven't won a trophy for four years now so it's important we put a good show on in all the cup competitions and try to reward the fans with a final."

Group J also looks extremely competitive, with Sevilla, Paris Saint Germain, Borussia Dortmund and Karpaty Lviv all competing for the top two places.

The group stage begins on 16 September and when it concludes three months later the top two teams from each group will go through to the final 32 - where they will be joined by the eight third-placed finishers in the Champions League group stage

Holders Atletico Madrid defeated Fulham in last season's final and are in Group B, along with Bayer Leverkusen, Rosenburg and Thessaloniki.

Manchester United in Clear - Oct 11, 2009
 
By Omar Sharief

                         Manchester United in the clear after Pogba debacle
 
Manchester United have been cleared by FIFA to sign 16 year old Paul Pogba.
There have been numerous rumours that the football governing body were set to ban United for tapping-up the 16 year old, but those rumours have been quashed.
French club Le Harve claimed that Manchester United were involved in a tapping up incident with their young starlet Paul Pogba in 2007, after he left Le Harve during the same season. It was claimed that Pogba's family were paid off and given cash incentives to leave for United.
However, an independent judge has ruled that, at 16, Le Harve were unable to tie down Pogba to a professional contract, thus disproving any claims Le Harve had.
 
In other news, Manchester City are also under investigation for their signing of Jeremy Healen after the French club ruled City to have illegally signed the youngster. Investiagations are on-going.
Angry Adebayor Back in Action - Oct 5, 2009
By Omar Sharief

 Angry Adebayor back in action
 
After 3 games out, Manchester City finally welcome back Emmanuel Adebayor after his controversial three game ban for his alleged stamp on Robin Van Persie. The Togo international was devastated that he was unable to play in the derby as he was sure City deserved something from the game.
 
"If I was playing, I would've scored, I'm sure of it" He said.
The striker was on fire for City before his suspension, scoring 4 in 4 for his new cash-rich club. Barring the Derby, City did win the other two games Adebayor was out for, which shows that their strength in-depth was greater than most first anticipated. They will need to get used this as the African cup of nations draws closer, he may be unavailable for a few months during that time. However, with the return of Roque Santa Cruz, Adebayor's departure may not be seen as too bad.
 
After much controversy, he avoided a further ban from the FA for sprinting the length of the pitch to celerbrate to the fans whom once loved him. Racial chants were made about him and his family during the game by the Arsenal fans and what he did was in no way comparable.
The fact that the FA charged him and gave him a two game suspended ban shows the FA's true love for the Salford Red's. Gary Neville was seen to do the exact same thing at the derby, and nothing was done about him. Robin Van Persie (in the same game) did arguably worse than what Adebayor did. He allegedly ran to the City fans and made offensive remarks to the City fans while putting up an offensive hand gesture. What did the City fans do? Nothing. Because he was being abused all game by the City faithful. So why can't the Arsenal fans accept that they had it coming? They did worse to Adebayor and in respect he made no remarks to the Arsenal fans, he simply slid and looked at the fans that he once adored. How fickle fans can be.
Carlos Tevez scored against his former club (West Ham) and put up an apologetic hand to his adored fans, showing that it's not always the footballers in the wrong.
 
Man City will welcome Adebayor to their away trip to Aston Villa on Monday as a victory here will prove Man City real 4th placed contenders. This will be no easy game by any means for City, but with Adebayor, Santa Cruz, Kompany, all back in action and with Bellamy, Tevez and Petrov firing on all cylinders, the future truly is bright.
The future is City.
Chelsea 'Cheated' as signings ban shocks world - Sep 4, 2009

Chelsea 'Cheated' as signings ban shocks world


Chelsea were shocked as they were told by FIFA that they had been banned from any signings for at least two transfer windows, until January 1st 2011.

The ban was imposed on Chelsea because the club was found guilty of "tapping-up" 18-year-old Gael Kakuta from Lens. He broke his contract in 2007 to join Chelsea and Lens lodged a complaint to the football governing body FIFA that Chelsea had breached their rules to acquire the player.

Lens lodged the complaint 2 years ago, after Chelsea signed Kakuta, but only now have Fifa punished Chelsea for their actions.

Fifa's dispute regulation chamber (DRC) made the decision that Kakuta breached his contract and Chelsea encouraged him to commit the offence.

However, Chelsea have made it clear that they will "mount the strongest appeal possible" as they felt the punishment for breaching the rules was overboard. In addition, Kakuta will not remain unpunished. He has also been punished for illegally joining Chelsea, being fined £682,000 which Chelsea are severely liable for. Furthermore, the player has been banned for playing in any official matches for 4 months.

Kataku ended the previous season being the youth team's top scorer and was also voted academy player of the year. We can see why Chelsea went to such lengths to sign the talented player, but the means in which they went about it were wrong, and they were duly punished.

Manchester United have also been allegedly "tapping-up" but Fifa have reported no complains have been lodged as of yet.



UAE tycoon Sulaiman Al Fahim took 100 percent ownership of Portsmouth Football Club. - Aug 31, 2009
 

UAE tycoon takes 100% control of Portsmouth FC

NEW OWNER: Sulaiman Al Fahim has been confirmed as the new owner of Portsmouth FC. (ITP Images)
NEW OWNER: Sulaiman Al Fahim has been confirmed as the new owner of Portsmouth FC. (ITP Images)

UAE tycoon Sulaiman Al Fahim on Wednesday took 100 percent ownership of Portsmouth Football Club.

A statement from his spokesman said: "Devondale Investments, the current owner of Portsmouth FC, and Al Fahim Asia Associates Ltd. (AAA), a company fully owned by Sulaiman Al Fahim, Chairman of the Board of Portsmouth FC, have reached an agreement whereby AAA has become the new sole owner of the Club."

"Sulaiman Al Fahim welcomed this agreement and looks forward to helping the Club build on its impressive history and achieve new successes in the Premier League.

"The Chairman of the Club would like to extend his gratitude to the players, staff and supporters of Portsmouth FC who have shown an extraordinary level of commitment and loyalty to this great Club.?

The Ugly Player Therom! - Aug 28, 2009
 

 

The Ugly Player Therom!

 

 

Scientists have figured out, via a unique formula, how successful
premier league teams can obtain European and domestic championships
and why some teams, now matter how good, may never win either.

 

 

A small group of scientists in the UK studied the reasons and psychology
behind top football teams success. They derived from a very extensive
study that each team must have a certain ratio of ugliness in the team.
Evidence seems to suggest that success can be achieved if the right
mixture of good quality footballers is combined with some ugliness.

 

AC Milan's Gattuso is vowing Champions League revenge on Liverpool
"The definition of ugliness in this study is someone who is aggressive
and who is only loved by his mother."

 

 

The study attempted to illustrate this point via numerous examples, as follows;

 

1. Arsenals 2004 run of 49 games unbeaten - this was when Viera had a
dominant role in the arsenal team. Since his departure, Arsenal have
somewhat struggled to challenge for the title and only just managed to
qualify for Europe in 2009.

 

2. A demolition of Man United by AC Milan, who also went on to win the
Champions League in 2007. This was made possible by Gattuso.  

 

3. Man United's famous treble win in 1999. Some would disagree, but it
may not have been possible without the likes of the very aggressive and
ugly Roy Keane.

 

4. Arsenal's recent lack of success has been very clear and it seems that
having nearly 11 pretty boys has not been helpful towards obtaining any
trophies.

 

 

It seems the study has strong evidence for its conclusion and it will be hard
to ignore by the likes of Arsene and Rafa who at the moment lack ugly players
in key positions in their team. However, the evidence seems to have a vague
definition of ugly which is open to interpretation and may be scrutinised closely
by other research teams.