Robin Van Persie to sign £70,000-a-week contract at Arsenal

Robin Van Persie is ready to sign a double-your-money deal to stay at Arsenal.

The Dutch striker will pen a £70,000-a-week contract if the club can convince him it can still compete for the major honours.

Van Persie, who has only 15 months to run on his current deal, has been linked with a move to Inter Milan after becoming frustrated at the lack of silverware in recent seasons.

Vidić raising United standards

It is no surprise José Mourinho keeps popping up at Manchester United FC games. When your next opponents in the UEFA Champions League have gone a record 13 matches without conceding a goal in the Premier League it is something you have to see to believe.

'No secret'
If working out a way of breaching the United defence poses one set of problems for the FC Internazionale Milano coach, another is how to break through the aura of invincibility surrounding Sir Alex Ferguson's side at the moment. According to centre-back Nemanja Vidić the confidence gained during this record run is more important than any statistic ahead of next week's showdown with the Italian titleholders in the UEFA Champions League. "The best gift of all is the high level of self-confidence and that really means so much," Vidić told uefa.com. "We have no secret. We practice well, prepare well, have a good attitude during the game and are always consistent. We never drop below the standards we set ourselves."

'No pressure'
United take on Fulham FC tonight looking to pull five points clear of Liverpool FC at the top of the Premier League and Vidić insists the focus will not falter as they chase silverware on four fronts. "We do not want to stop here," said the Serbia centre-back, the Premier League player of the month for February. "We want more, we want trophies. Each victory is important. We have the same target for each game and for the season. I never felt any pressure about breaking any record, the number of minutes or matches or something like that. The most important thing is the result. Of course if we don't concede we are closer to earning points or qualifying for the next round of a cup competition. We just do our job to the highest level, with 100 per cent concentration."

During this period some new and young players have taken their chance. They have given us a new quality and we are better because of that

'United'
Remarkably, United have achieved the record without a steady back four. Injuries to Wes Brown, Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra and Vidić himself have given youngsters Rafael and Jonny Evans a chance to stake a claim and they have risen to the challenge. "The most important thing at United is the collective," Vidić said. "Four defenders cannot stop the opposition, just as two strikers cannot score all the goals. We always support our friends, we really are united. During this period some new and young players have taken their chance. They have given us a new quality and we are better because of that."

Van der Sar praise
Even so, Vidić reserves special praise for veteran goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who set a new British league record of 1,155 minutes without conceding at the end of United's 1-0 win against West Ham United FC ten days ago. "He is a very experienced guy. He means so much for us. He has stamina, calmness, experience. When you have a goalkeeper like him, you can play easily. He is part of our defensive line, a very important member and everything starts from him." Of centre-back partner Rio Ferdinand, Vidić adds: "We co-operate brilliantly. After a few years together we have a brilliant relationship and understand each other really well. Rio is a great person and a great friend."

Inter test
The 27-year-old former FK Crvena Zvezda and FC Spartak Moskva defender is growing in stature with every game he plays for United. For a team famed for its array attacking talent it is the back line that is winning the plaudits this season and they have built their title challenge on the back of nine 1-0 victories in the league. Already through to the final of the League Cup, into the quarter-finals of the FA Cup and riding high in the Premier League, United have domestic matters seemingly in hand and can perhaps afford to steal a glance at the big test on the horizon against Inter.

'Hard matches'
"Those will be hard matches," says Vidić, who is suspended for the first leg. "It's good that we will play the first game in Milan because playing the second leg in our stadium means so much to us. Those games are very high profile and something to really look forward to." No team has conceded fewer goals than United in the UEFA Champions League, and with Sir Alex's side in this kind of form, even Mourinho might feel a little apprehensive.

Milan won´t up offer for Becks: Galliani

ROME (AFP) - AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has insisted that his club won't increase their reported offer of three million dollars to Los Angeles Galaxy to permanently sign on-loan midfielder David Beckham.

Galaxy chief Tim Leiweke had described the offer for the 33-year-old former England captain as ridiculous but Galliani is playing hard-ball.

Speaking to the Gazzetta dello Sport on Saturday, he said there would be no compromise.

"Milan have made an offer that is fair for what is essentially an eight-month loan deal because, as Leiweke said himself, David can leave for nothing on November 30," said Galliani.

"I don't want to cause any problems, quite the contrary, I want to thank Galaxy for loaning us Beckham these last months."

However, the reported three million dollars on the table will not be increased, despite Galaxy apparently holding out for a figure nearer 12 million dollars.

"Absolutely not. I have a lot of experience with regards the price of players," added Galliani when asked if Milan would increase their bid.

"And from a point of view regarding the European parameters, there's no sense in spending any more.

"In the States they look at the commercial aspect. But in Europe transfers are done for technical reasons.

"I'm already at the limit of the budget at my disposal."

Gazzetta claims that the budget mentioned by Galliani includes not only the transfer fee but also the conditions of Beckham's contract offer until June 2010.

Galliani's comments will not be well received in Los Angeles after Leiweke told Gazzetta just 24 hours earlier that he was determined not to let Beckham go on the cheap.

"Two weeks ago Milan made a ridiculous offer that took me just a few seconds to reject," he said of the reported three million dollar bid.

"With this figure Galaxy wouldn't even be able to cover the loss in revenue from shirt sales.

"They (Milan) don't understand that behind this affair there are fans who are threatening to give up their season tickets, there's TV that needs to schedule which matches they will screen, sponsors who want compensation and other teams that have the right to know if Galaxy will play in their stadium with or without Beckham.

"And don't forget that under normal circumstances our transfer window is closed. If David doesn't come back, who are we going to replace him with?

"If Milan are so determined to buy him, why are they dragging this out for so long?

"If they think they'll get him on the cheap that way, they're wrong."

Gazzetta, however, speculates on a possible solution to the impasse that would see Beckham stay on at Milan until the end of the season before returning to Galaxy in June.

He would then see out the rest of the season with Galaxy before returning to Milan until June 2010.

Beckham's current loan deal at Milan is due to run out on March 9 while the Major League Soccer season kicks-off on March 22.

If Beckham was to follow Gazzetta's proposal, he would be available for Galaxy's June 6 clash with Toronto, having missed 11 MLS games from a 30-match regular season.

Depending on Galaxy's league finish and qualifying for the play-offs, he would either be available to return to Milan in October or November.

Adriano hands Inter crucial title boost

A controversial Adriano goal helped the Serie A leaders Internazionale to a 2-1 victory over their city rivals Milan last night which all but ended the Rossoneri's title hopes. The champions Inter now have an 11-point advantage over third-placed Milan with 14 games to go.

Adriano broke the deadlock at an electric San Siro on 28 minutes when he diverted in Maicon's cross, but replays showed the Brazil striker had used his arm. The midfielder Dejan Stankovic extended the lead on 42 minutes when he rifled in after Zlatan Ibrahimovic's knockdown. "I don't know if it was voluntary or not but the foul by Adriano was crucial," said Carlo Ancelotti, Milan's coach. "The championship is not over. Inter have the chance to maintain their advantage but we must resist."

Alexandre Pato pulled one back 20 minutes from time when he tapped in Marek Jankulovski's cross and Milan then piled on the pressure with the substitute Filippo Inzaghi being flagged offside when he thought he had grabbed an equaliser.

Milan, who won the season's earlier derby by a goal to nil, had much of the play in the first half but the striker Pato was constantly isolated on his own up front, with Kaka missing through injury.

Inter are pursuing their fourth straight scudetto and first under Jose Mourinho. "It was an important win against a great side who put us under huge pressure at the end," said Mourinho. "It's 11 points. It seems easy. Football is like this, but there's 33 points to play for and there's lots of time left in the season."

It was a sorry night for 40-year-old Paolo Maldini in his last derby before retiring, while David Beckham, who still hopes to stay at Milan despite LA Galaxy demanding he return, did little. A weary looking Beckham (left) was substituted early in the second half after aggravating a hamstring injury. "I had a kick on it on Wednesday [against Spain] which never really cleared up," Beckham said.

Beckham also said last night that would be difficult for him to return to Los Angeles Galaxy if his permanent move to Milan does not materialise. The England midfielder, on a two-month loan in Italy, wants to stay in Milan but Galaxy said on Friday that he must go back to Los Angeles after a Major League Soccer deadline to complete the transfer passed.

"I've said I want to stay here and if I do go back then it will be a bit difficult but we'll have to wait and see what happens," said Beckham.

Milan have said they still hope to sign the 33-year-old full-time irrespective of the MLS deadline. Asked if there might be an outcome in the next few days, Beckham said: "I don't know. It is out of my hands and they'll be talking in the next week or two."

Internazionale: Julio Cesar, Maicon, Samuel, Chivu, Santon, Zanetti, Cambiasso, Muntari, Stankovic, Ibrahimovic, Adriano. Substitutes: Toldo, Cordoba, Maxwell, Figo, Cruz, Vieira, Burdisso.

Milan: Abbiati, Zambrotta, Maldini, Kaladze, Jankulovski, Beckham, Pirlo, Ambrosini, Seedorf, Ronaldinho, Pato. Substitutes: Dida (gk), Emerson, Inzaghi, Favalli, Senderos, Antonini, Flamini.

Young guns impress Fergie

Sir Alex Ferguson was full of praise for his young Manchester United side after their emphatic victory over Derby on Sunday.

The Red Devils eased to a 4-1 victory at Pride Park in the fifth round of the FA Cup.

United claimed the comfortable success courtesy of goals from Nani, Darron Gibson, Cristiano Ronaldo and Danny Welbeck.

Ferguson was delighted at the comprehensive nature of his side's performance and was particularly pleased with those who currently sit on the fringes of his first-team squad.

"We applied ourselves very well," the Scottish coach told MUTV.

"The players had a good attitude, they all wanted to play and that made the pace of the game really quick. I was very pleased.

"Nani's goal was marvellous and came at a good time for us, but he's capable of doing that.

"Danny is a natural finisher and his goals to games ratio is very good. He's only 18 but he's improving all the time."

The result could have been even more commanding were it not for a debateable first-half decision to rule out a Ronaldo effort.

David Beckham brings celebrity to Seville as England tackle Spain

Neither is David Beckham. Put the two together and you have a crowd control issue. Not a football mob, more the Oscars variety.

Few of those penned beyond the red carpet at the entrance last night cared much for the record number of England caps Beckham might acquire against Spain tonight.

Football was never their primary interest. They came to glimpse celebrity, to snap a memento of the day Beckham came to the neighbourhood.

And pretty sharp the boy looked, though in footballing terms he is no longer on the A-list. Only Fabio Capello knows if Beckham will feature, though the chances are high with a liberal use of substitutes promised.

This is the first match of the year for Capello, a chance to assess progress against arguably the best team in the world.

Spain have followed up their European Championship success of last summer with four straight wins in their World Cup qualifying group.

And Fernando Torres, who has been missing from the World Cup campaign, is back to partner Valencia's David Villa.

Behind them, Vicente Del Bosque has a plethora of talent from which to select, including Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Xabi Alonso, David Silva and Sergio Ramos.

Capello wants to see England play with the confidence built during their own unblemished run to the top of the World Cup qualifying group and the victory in Berlin against Germany, a sequence that, notionally at least, makes this an encounter between Europe's form sides.

The subtext also examines the respective claims of the Premiers League and La Liga to be considered the best in the world, though that is compromised a litte by the sprinkling of Spanish talent playing in England; five Liverpool players for starters.

Capello continues to march on common sense and pragmatism. Injuries forced his hand in Berlin, where Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard and Rio Ferdinand were absent.

The latter two are back tonight and would expect to start, but it would be a shame were Capello not to engage in a little fantasy, maybe at some point an Aston Villa front four of Gabriell Agbonlahor, Emile Heskey, Ashley Young and a first cap for the energetic James Millner.

Rijkaard interested in Blues post

Frank Rijkaard's agent insists the Dutchman would consider the Chelsea job and would not be scared off by Roman Abramovich's reputation

Rijkaard has been out of management since leaving Barcelona last summer and is among a list of candidates who have been linked to the Chelsea job following the sacking of Luiz Felipe Scolari on Monday.

His agent Perry Overeem said on Tuesday if Chelsea did make an approach then Rijkaard would certainly listen.

"(Frank) is obviously a big fan of the game and a big fan of the Premier League so he can be interested in working in the Premier League," he told Sky Sports News.

"He would consider every serious job offer from one of the major teams in Europe and obviously Chelsea and the Premier League is one of those."

Four managers have come and gone since Abramovich bought Chelsea in the summer of 2003, but Overeem insisted that would not put Rijkaard off the challenge at Stamford Bridge.

"Well of course (the reputation of Chelsea) doesn't make it a lot easier and Frank would take some more time to consider the opportunity, but I don't think Frank will be scared off by those statistics.

"He will just think of himself as maybe the one candidate who can stay there longer than those earlier coaches."

Reports suggest Chelsea may look to make a short-term appointment until the end of the season before looking to find Scolari's long-term successor, but Overeem warned Rijkaard would not consider being the stop-gap.

"It all depends on the plans (Chelsea have). It would be a fairly long-term plan, not just for one or one-and-a-half seasons," he said.

Rijkaard's fellow Dutchman Guus Hiddink has also been linked with the job, and his agent expects his client will speak to Abramovich and listen to what he has to say.

Hiddink has been linked with the Chelsea job in the past and already has a relationship with the Blues' billionaire owner Abramovich through his role as Russia coach.

However, the Dutchman remains "focused" on the task of leading Russia to the 2010 World Cup according to his representative Cees van Nieuwenhuizen.

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti and former Inter Milan boss Roberto Mancini have also been linked with the Chelsea job, while Avram Grant - who also has a good relationship with Abramovich - has been reported as a contender to return as a caretaker manager after being dismissed by the Blues at the end of last season.

gosip

CHELSEA GOSSIP

Chelsea will appoint a new manager within the next 24 hours from a shortlist of two - former Blues boss Avram Grant or Russia manager Guus Hiddink. (Sky Sports, 0920 GMT)

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich wants AC Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti to replace the axed Luiz Felipe Scolari. The Italian has an agreement to leave the San Siro Stadium at the end of the season. (The Sun)

Abramovich is in discussions with the Russian FA for an agreement so Hiddink can continue his duties as national team boss and take over the reins at Stamford Bridge. (Daily Mail)

Roberto Mancini and Frank Rijkaard head the managerial shortlist as Chelsea only want an experienced coach currently out of work, allowing them to take over immediately. (Daily Telegraph, Times)

Scolari's agent says Chelsea's failure to sign Robinho contributed to his downfall. "He wanted Robinho but Chelsea didn't want to spend the money," said Acaz Felleger. (Daily Mail)

Brazil manager Dunga has backed compatriot Scolari to succeed in his next managerial post. (Guardian, Daily Star)

PORTSMOUTH GOSSIP

Portsmouth are lining up former England and Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson to replace Tony Adams at Fratton Park. (Various)

Ex-Chelsea boss Avram Grant and Alan Curbishley, the bookmakers' favourites, do not figure prominently in Portsmouth owner Alexandre Gaydamak's thoughts. (Daily Telegraph)

Curblishey's ambitions could be complicated by a legal wrangle with former club West Ham, whom he is suing for £1.5m. (Guardian)

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce will have £9m-rated Austria striker Marc Janko, who plays for Red Bull Salzburg, watched against Sweden on Wednesday. (Daily Mirror)

OTHER FOOTBALL GOSSIP

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs should be knighted. (The Sun)

Rio Ferdinand wants England to emulate Manchester United's defence prowess. (Daily Star)

Arsenal and Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas says Fabio Capello has turned England into genuine World Cup contenders after getting them to play like Italy. (Daily Mirror, Express)

Club team-mate Robin van Persie says Arsenal are not scoring enough goals. (The Sun)

Liverpool striker Andrey Voronin, currently on loan at Hertha Berlin, says he would go back to Anfield to ease the striker crisis after the departure of Robbie Keane. (Various)

Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce is backing keeper Paul Robinson to become England's number one once again, despite missing out on Fabio Capello's squad to face Spain. (Express)

Luiz Felipe Scolari sacked by Chelsea

Chelsea have sacked Luiz Felipe Scolari after Saturday's goalless draw against Hull.

After a promising start to the season which saw the Brazilian praised for the way he had turned an efficient but uninspiring Blues team into Premier League entertainers.

But since losing their impregnable home record to Liverpool, when Rafa Benitez's side became the first to leave with three points since February 2004, Chelsea's title bid has stalled.

Saturday's goalless draw against Hull, whose own early season promise has also evaporated, saw fans chanting "You don't know what you're doing" at a manager who won the World Cup with Brazil.

That result saw Chelsea drop to fourth, two points behind Aston Villa, and the club today announced the end of Scolari's seven month reign. Assistant boss Ray Wilkins will take temporary charge.

A statement on the Chelsea website says: "Luiz Felipe Scolari has been dismissed as manager of Chelsea Football Club today with immediate effect.

"The Chelsea board would like to place on record our gratitude for his time as manager.

"Felipe has brought many positives to the club since he joined and we all feel a sense of sadness that our relationship has ended so soon.

"Unfortunately the results and performances of the team appeared to be deteriorating at a key time in the season.

"In order to maintain a challenge for the trophies we are still competing for we felt the only option was to make the change now.

"The search for a new manager has already started and we hope to have someone in place as soon as possible."

Early contenders to replace Scolari include Guus Hiddink and a shock return for Avram Grant, who took Chelsea to the Champions League final after the sacking of Jose Mourinho last season.

In his 36 games in charge, Scolari claimed 20 wins and five draws but was defeated 11 times and could not mastermind a Premier League win over Arsenal, Manchester United or Liverpool.

Scolari said tonight: "I wish luck to Chelsea in the three competitions they are involved in. I will keep living in London and will respond to the media soon."

In the meantime Scolari's spokesman Acaz Fellegger has put the blame for the manager's departure on Roman Abramovich.

He said: "It seems that Abramovich made the decision.

"He (Scolari) was not in a comfortable situation despite having the support of the squad and Peter Kenyon.

"The Chelsea squad are old. Felipe tried to rejuvenate it, but unsuccessfully. He asked (the board) to sign Deco and Robinho, but they only brought Deco.

"The English language has never been an issue for him as he has given many interviews in English."

TRANSFER GOSSIP

TRANSFER GOSSIP

AC Milan have been told by LA Galaxy they will need to cough up £18m to sign former England skipper David Beckham. (News of the World)

Milan's vice-president Adriano Galliano said the club's first attempt to buy Beckham had been unsuccessful but was not giving up hope. (Sunday Telegraph)

The rejected bid is believed to be £6.7m - and LA Galaxy claim that if they decide to block a move, Beckham would understand. (Observer)

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez will reignite his interest in Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry in the summer. (News of the World)

Inter Milan are almost certain to sign Chelsea striker Didier Drogba in the summer. (Sunday Express)

Newcastle will try to tempt Sunderland midfielder Kieran Richardson to join them by offering him a double-your-salary deal, worth £60,000 per week. (News of the World)

Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing will be allowed to leave the club in the summer, with Tottenham, Manchester City, Aston Villa and Liverpool all interested. (News of the World)

Tottenham are leading the chase for Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart, who wants to leave following the arrival of Shay Given. (The Mail on Sunday)

Portsmouth midfielder Sean Davis will make a summer switch to Bolton on a free transfer when his contract ends in the summer. (News of the World)

West Ham forward David di Michele wants to make his loan move from Torino a permanent deal - he would cost the Hammers about £750,000. (News of the World)

Reading, Wolves and Birmingham are in a three-way tussle to sign Bolton central defender Danny Shittu. (News of the World)

Derby boss Nigel Clough will release Stephen Pearson, Andy Todd and Mile Sterjovski at the end of the season, but Giles Barnes' loan move from Fulham will be made a permanent deal. (News of the world)

Carlos Tevez Won't Celebrate If He Scores At West Ham

Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez has admitted that he will not celebrate if he scores at Upton Park this afternoon.

The Red Devils head to east London this afternoon with Tevez likely to receive a warm welcome after becoming a firm favourite with the Hammers’ fans during his spell at the club where he helped them avoid relegation.

According to the Argentinean, the feeling is completely mutual, and speaking to The People he admitted respect for the fans would curtail any goalscoring celebrations.

“In the year I was with West Ham, the fans were completely behind me - although I did find it difficult when I wasn't being picked in the team,” said Tevez.

“Their support is worth its weight in gold for me. For a long time I have received thank-you letters from West Ham fans for the effort of that incredible run-in to the season when we avoided being relegated against all odds.

“I have so much respect for West Ham fans that I will not celebrate if I score. They understand that at United and there is no problem.”

Second Team

Tevez also admitted that he would always remain indebted to the Hammers for giving him a chance in English football, but that despite his strong feelings he would still be hoping to guide United to victory.

“I can't hide the fact that West Ham is my second team after Manchester United,” he said.

“West Ham gave me the chance to show that I could play here and that means a lot to me.

“I suffer a lot in these types of games but I am a professional, I owe United and I want to win.”

West Ham have beaten Sir Alex Ferguson’s side on their last two visits to Upton Park, yet having been replaced by Liverpool at the top of the table yesterday, Tevez is keen to pick up three points.

“This type of game is where titles get decided. We cannot afford to relax or take anything for granted,” he explained. “We have to show that we are the current champions and the leaders. Our main rivals are Liverpool but it is in our own hands.”

A draw would be enough for the Red Devils to return to the summit and Tevez admitted that if they maintain their current form, he believes they will claim the Premier League title. He said, “If we keep up with the way we've been playing in all competitions, then the title will be ours.”

Rooney out but Becks set to equal Moore tally

The England manager Fabio Capello has cemented his relationship with Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson by leaving Wayne Rooney out of Wednesday's friendly match against the European champions Spain in Seville.

The England manager Fabio Capello has cemented his relationship with Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson by leaving Wayne Rooney out of Wednesday's friendly match against the European champions Spain in Seville. But David Beckham, enjoying a profitable loan spell with Milan, is in the squad and is likely to equal Bobby Moore's total of 108 caps, probably as one of the six substitutes Capello intends using.

Last night he also named James Milner and Luke Young among the growing Aston Villa contingent, as well as Everton's Phil Jagielka and West Ham's Carlton Cole and Robert Green. Among those dropping out are Scott Parker, Darren Bent, Curtis Davies, Joleon Lescott and Scott Carson. Rooney is expected to be a substitute for United at Upton Park today, but Capello believes it is too early to pick him after three-and-a-half weeks out with a hamstring strain. That leaves Emile Heskey and Gabriel Agbonlahor, now Villa team-mates, as a possible starting pair in attack.

There is also an element of keeping onside with leading managers during a busy period for English clubs. "It's not a fantastic time [for] this game because a lot of teams play the FA Cup, play the Premier League," Capello said. "This is one time when it is possible some players will be tired. I try to help the manager. Also the manager, he has to help me."

When Capello picked his first England squad a year ago, Beckham was out of season with the LA Galaxy, out of fitness and apparently out of favour. David Bentley took his place in the squad and the team, and was widely deemed the best player in a laboured 2-1 win over Switzerland. Yet Bentley has neverstarted another international, Beckham walking straight back into the side and even briefly reclaiming the captain's armband at the end of last season.

Shrewdly switching to Capello's old club Milan on loan this winter, he has improved his fitness and impressed both his club and country's coaches. The Italian side now wish to keep him, though the Galaxy last night told them to improve upon an offer of £6.7 million.

So Capello found himself following predecessors Glenn Hoddle, Kevin Keegan, Sven Goran Eriksson and Steve McClaren in having to calm another outburst of Beckham-mania. "It's incredible," he said. "We have to play against Spain, and not only to speak about David or the other players. Why not the 23 players? For me, all the players are very important."

Theo Walcott and, after he was injured, Shaun Wright-Phillips have started the most recent games ahead of the 33-year-old Beckham, whose last four England appearances have been as a substitute, totalling only 30 minutes between them. But Capello was still prepared to admit: "Beckham is a very important player. The form of David is OK now, I've watched him in one game in Milan and [Italo] Galbiati and Franco Baldini saw his other games. He is fit now. Every player in the squad has to play, not just train. This is important for David and for us. He is better than he was six months ago."

He insisted it was too early to consider the possibility of Beckham still being around for the 2010 World Cup, which England are well placed to reach, and as for the chances of equalling Bobby Moore's record of 108 caps for an outfield player on Wednesday: "I never think about this when I choose a player or make a substitution."

The bookmakers do, and have him 3-1 on to start the game, never mind picking up another cap at some stage. It is not a tempting bet at those odds, especially since Wright-Phillips should be the man in possession after an excellent performance in the stunning 2-1 victory over Germany in November.

The Manchester City player will discover tomorrow if he is to be banned by the Football Association for kicking out in retaliation at Stoke's Rory Delap, but these days club suspensions do not affect England selection.

Milner, who also plays on the right of midfield, is picked at last after collecting a record number of Under-21 caps. His inclusion, and Jagielka's, are less of a surprise than that of Cole, who just before Christmas seemed to have lost all confidence before embarking on a sudden scoring burst. The list is bad news for Gary Neville, who would have hoped to have regained his place ahead of Luke Young, and for Carson, who was at fault for Germany's goal.

Even without the injured Cesc Fabregas, who did not always start under Luis Aragones at the European Championships last summer, Spain have a formidable squad. England will hardly be sorry if Rafa Benitez can persuade his countryman Vicente del Bosque not to use Fernando Torres for long. With Rio Ferdinand due to return alongside John Terry, the defence will have their hands full coping with David Villa, the Valencia striker who scored in each of Spain's opening four World Cup qualifiers, all of which have been won.

England squad

Goalkeepers: R Green (West Ham), J Hart (Man City), D James (Portsmouth).

Defenders: W Bridge (Man City), A Cole (Chelsea), R Ferdinand (Man Utd), P Jagielka (Everton), G Johnson (Portsmouth), J Terry (Chelsea), M Upson (West Ham), L Young (Villa).

Midfielders: D Beckham (LA Galaxy), G Barry (Villa), M Carrick (Man Utd), S Downing (Middlesbrough), F Lampard (Chelsea), J Milner (Villa), S Wright-Phillips (Man City), A Young (Villa).

Strikers: G Agbonlahor (Villa), C Cole (West Ham), P Crouch (Portsmouth), E Heskey (Villa).

Kaka to miss Milan derby

ROME (AFP) - Brazil star Kaka will miss the Milan derby after injuring his foot in Saturday's 1-1 home draw with rock-bottom Reggina, AC Milan confirmed on Sunday.

Kaka, Milan's top scorer with 11 Serie A goals this season, netted a penalty in the match and finished the game but immediately afterwards it became clear that he had a problem.

Milan issued a statement on Sunday saying that tests showed he has sprained rather than broken his foot but that he faces at least two weeks on the sidelines.

The news could not have come at a worse time with the rossonero's crucial clash against neighbours Inter Milan at the San Siro next weekend.

Milan dropped to eight points behind the champions and leaders following their draw as Inter won 3-0 at Lecce on Saturday.

Anything other than a second victory over Inter this season -- Ronaldinho scored the winner with a rare header in a 1-0 success in September -- could see Milan's title hopes all but disappear.

Blamed Carletto If Pato not Be that was most Good

Alexandre Pato was talked about as the best young talent that was owned by Brazil at this time, and will be the best player the world in the future. If that did not happen, blamed Carlo Ancelotti. Pato currently just is 19 years old. His name still could not be possibly compared with Lionel Messi, but he often received praise as striker the Brazilian future. What already and still the implementation for AC Milan was proof if the adolescent was the prospective star in several seasons in the future.
Several sides have even acknowledged Pato as the winner's candidate of the appreciation of the best player the world in several forthcoming years. The prediction that also was owned by Carlo Ancelotti as his coach in Rossoneri. "For me, he had the potential to become that was best in the world." He had the extraordinary and very fast kick. The fact is, he twice was faster than the normal athlete, said Carletto as being reported by "Dailymail".
When being asked whether Pato can match the Ronaldo incision, senior him in timnas Brazil, that could become the best player the world, Carletto was convinced that will happen. As one of the coaches who took part in polishing him, Carletto even was prepared to be blamed if Pato cannot eventually be the best player the world. "Said by me if in 10 years in front of him did not become the best player the world, then apart from himself, the other appropriate person was blamed was his coach," said Carletto.
Pato was bought by Milan from Internacional with the price 12 million sterling pound to the transfer stock exchange 2007. However because of stumbling the matter regulation of the number of European non-Union players he just could uniformed Diavolo Rosso in January 2008. On his first season beak was total nine goals he contributed in the A Series from the total 18 fights. Now for the length of this season he has entered 12 goals from 25 Milan fights throughout the competition in a book.

gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester United have failed to take up the first option to buy striker Carlos Tevez. (Daily Star)

Inter Milan manager Jose Mourinho made a late bid to bring Chelsea forward Didier Drogba to the club as part of the deal that took Ricardo Quaresma to Stamford Bridge on loan. (Daily Mirror)

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce has urged striker Roque Santa Cruz to earn a summer move by saving Rovers from relegation. (Daily Star)

Arsenal are set for a storm amid concerns over why Andrei Arshavin's move from Zenit St Petersburg was completed 24 hours after the transfer window closed. (Various)

Manchester City failed with a deadline-day bid for Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner. (Daily Mail)

Manchester City also missed out on a loan bid for Bayern Munich striker Lukas Podolski - as did Portsmouth. (Daily Mail)

Everton were keen to bring Portsmouth winger Glen Little to the club in January. (Daily Mail)

Hull boss Phil Brown says agents are to blame for his failure to land defender Christian Panucci from Roma. (Daily Mirror)

England midfielder David Beckham could have to take a £10m pay cut to join AC Milan permanently from Los Angeles Galaxy. (Daily Star)

Beckham lawyers look to extend Milan loan

AC Milan general manager Adriano Galliani has revealed David Beckham's lawyers are in talks with the Los Angeles Galaxy over extending the midfielder's stay at the San Siro.

Beckham has been a revelation since arriving at Milan, where he has scored two goals, and on Sunday provided two key assists to help his side to a 3-0 win at Lazio - a result which propelled them to second in the Serie A table.

The England midfielder's loan deal is set to end on 9 March but Galliani has already admitted the club would love to keep him at the San Siro for longer and he has now revealed the wheels have been set in motion for that to happen

Fabregas wants to return to Barcelona

MADRID (AFP) - Arsenal's Spanish international midfielder Cesc Fabregas wants to return to Barcelona next season where he would have a better chance of playing in the Champions League, sports daily Marca reported Wednesday.

The 21-year-old, who has been in Spain recovering from a serious knee injury that has left him sidelined since December, has met with people linked to the runaway leaders of the Spanish club in recent weeks, it said.

"The message he has sent out to all is that he is crazy for Barcelona to sign him for next season," said the report, without citing sources.

Barcelona does not want to pay more than 20 million euros (26 million dollars) for the player because "no one would understand a huge payout for a player who came through the club's youth team," the newspaper added.

Fabregas, who was injured after a tackle by fellow Spaniard Xabi Alonso during Aresenal's 1-1 draw against Liverpool on December 21, is under contract with the English side until 2014.

He joined Arsenal from the youth ranks of Barcelona in July 2003.

Zenit claim Arshavin deal is done

Zenit St Petersburg claim that Arsenal have finally signed Andrei Arshavin - but for much more than the reported £12million fee.

The Russian's on-off move to The Emirates dominated transfer deadline day with the deal not being confirmed by the close of play on Monday.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger told Sky Sports News on Monday that the deal would go through and was being held up as it was yet to be ratified by the Premier League.

The Premier League is expected to finalise the paperwork on Tuesday to allow Arshavin to seal his switch to North London and Zenit claim the move has gone through in a deal worth more that £12million.

"Both clubs have managed to complete the deal. Arshavin will play for Arsenal from now on," Zenit spokesman Alexei Petrov told Russian television.

"The conditions of the contract are very favourable for Zenit," Petrov said. "The value of the deal is much more than £12million."

Arshavin is believed to have agreed a three-and-a-half-year deal at Arsenal and could make his debut in this weekend's North London derby with Tottenham.

Quaresma joins Chelsea on loan from Inter

LONDON, Feb 2 (Reuters) - Chelsea have signed Portugal winger Ricardo Quaresma on loan from Inter Milan until the end of the season, the Premier League club said on Monday.

Quaresma, a member of Portugal's Euro 2008 squad when Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari was in charge, failed to settle in Serie A after being signed by Inter boss Jose Mourinho five months ago.

The 25-year-old, Chelsea's only signing of the January transfer window that closed on Monday, joins five compatriots in the first team.

Quaresma began his career with Sporting before a move to Barcelona in 2003. He returned to Portugal to play for Mourinho's Porto, then the European champions, the following year.

Signed for 18.6 million euros ($23.76 million) from Porto in September, he made a dreadful start to his Inter career and was heckled by the team's fans during the 1-1 home draw with Torino on Sunday.

Also omitted from Inter's Champions League squad on Sunday, he was named 2008's worst Serie A player in December when he won a famous Italian radio award called the 'Golden Bin'.

Mourinho bought him in a bid to recreate the three-pronged attack that was so successful for the Portuguese coach when he was at Chelsea but after a couple of months he dropped Quaresma and reverted to a diamond formation in midfield.

transfer

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Arsenal completed the signing of Zenit St Petersburg forward Andrei Arshavin only minutes before the transfer window slammed shut. (Various)

Arshavin has signed a deal worth £70,000 a week, which ties him to the Emirates Stadium until 2012. (Various)

The Gunners have paid £10m for Arshavin, rising by a further £2m based on success-related clauses being met. (Daily Mail)

So keen was Arshavin to complete his move to Arsenal that he hired a private jet to fly him into London on Sunday night. (Various)

Arshavin has taken a £20,00 a week pay cut to join Arsene Wenger's men. (Daily Star)

The sticking point in the deal was a huge loyalty bonus received by Arshavin upon signing for Zenit. It was awarded on the understanding that he would complete his four-year contract but having spent a little over two-and-a-half years in St Petersburg the club's board demanded the difference be returned by the player. (Guardian)

Zenit spent Monday ringing round Premier League clubs - targeting Tottenham in particular - in a bid to find a buyer who would pay more than Arsenal. (Daily Star)

AC Milan are ready to make a £14m bid to sign midfielder David Beckham on a permanent contract when his loan deal at the San Siro comes to an end. (The Sun)

Hibernian striker Steven Fletcher was said to be devastated after his chance of a move to Celtic disappeared when Easter Road chairman Rod Petrie rejected an increased offer of around £2.3m from the SPL champions for the 21-year-old. (Daily Record)

Sunderland striker Michael Chopra's move to Cardiff beat the transfer deadline by one minute. (The Sun)

German side Schalke failed in an attempt to take Rangers winger DaMarcus Beasley to the Bundesliga for free on deadline day. (The Sun)

Man Utd 1-0 Everton

Manchester United turned up the pressure on the Premier League's chasing pack and re-wrote the record books with victory over Everton at Old Trafford.

Cristiano Ronaldo's 44th-minute penalty - awarded after Mikel Arteta fouled Michael Carrick - put them five points ahead of Liverpool and Chelsea before they meet at Anfield on Sunday.

And in recording a 12th successive top-flight clean sheet, goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar eclipsed the previous league record of 1,104 minutes without conceding a goal, set by Reading's Steve Death in 1979.

United deserved their victory and could have won by more, but they were made to work for the win by an Everton side displaying all their trademark defensive resilience.

Former United keeper Tim Howard saved well from Ji-Sung Park and Carlos Tevez, while Ronaldo also hit the post from 20 yards in the first half.

Phelan points to all-round effort

Everton - admittedly stripped of almost all of their recognised attacking strength - created few openings and Van der Sar rarely looked in danger of missing out on his place in history.

Boss Sir Alex Ferguson can now relax after another efficient rather than spectacular display, and watch his two closest rivals go into combat on Sunday knowing victory is essential if they are to keep United firmly in their sights.

Carrick orchestrated United's performance in midfield and Tevez was busy in attack, but in the end they had to be grateful for a narrow victory.

United were presented with the opportunity to move away from the pursuing pack in the title race - but they faced an Everton side lifted by influential pair Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini passing fitness tests.

The first 45 minutes took the predictable shape of United working all their attacking options, but running into Everton's blue wall of defiance.

Record is a bonus - Van der Sar

Former United goalkeeper Howard was in early action, making a last-ditch save to turn away Park's cross and then blocking Tevez's effort from only eight yards with his legs.

Ronaldo came close to piercing the Everton rearguard after 25 minutes when his low shot took a deflection, only to strike a post and roll agonisingly across the goal-line to safety.

Everton's best form of response was the left-sided partnership of Steven Pienaar and Leighton Baines. They worked a succession of promising openings, but the quality of delivery was poor and Van der Sar was rarely troubled.

gossip

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Chelsea are set to sell striker Didier Drogba at the end of the season to help fund a move for Manchester City's Robinho. (News of the World)

Manchester City boss Mark Hughes remains optimistic about landing Paraguay striker Roque Santa Cruz from Blackburn on the final day of the transfer window with an improved £20m bid. (Sunday Times)

Liverpool striker Robbie Keane is on the verge of a £15m return to White Hart Lane. (Mail on Sunday)

Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta will snub Arsenal and Manchester City to sign a new four-year deal at Goodison Park. (News of the World)

Djibril Cisse will quit Sunderland at the end of the season after the departure of best mates Pascal Chimbonda and El-Hadji Diouf. (News of the World)

Wigan winger Antonio Valencia has snubbed a loan move to Real Madrid to stay at the JJB Stadium. (Sunday Express)

Wolves are closing in on a £2.3m deal for Hearts captain Christophe Berra. (Sunday Times)

Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia has made a £5m approach for Manchester City captain Richard Dunne. (NOTW)

Bolton are planning a club record £15m for Sporting Lisbon's Miguel Veloso, who is also attracting interest from Newcastle and Manchester City. Wanderers are also lining up a £3m bid for Portsmouth's Sean Davis. (Sunday Express)

West Ham have made inquiries about bringing 37-year-old former Sweden international Henrik Larsson, currently a free agent, to Upton Park. The club face competition from Bolton. (Independent on Sunday)

Hull boss Phil Brown is eyeing Spurs striker Darren Bent. (NOTW)

Newcastle want Manchester City midfielder Michael Johnson as part of the deal to take goalkeeper Shay Given to Eastlands. (Sunday Express)

Stoke boss Tony Pulis is chasing £4.5m-rated Gary O'Neil of Middlesbrough. (Daily Star Sunday)