New contract for Torres

Liverpool have rewarded Fernando Torres with a new contract that will keep him at Anfield until at least 2013.

Although the Spain striker still had four years remaining on his original six-year contract, Liverpool have offered him improved terms and added an option to take the deal through to 2014.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez said: "Fernando is one of the best strikers in the game today and, at his age, can only get better." He added: "Every major side would want him in their team, but he has shown how much he wants to achieve success at Liverpool by committing his future to the club.

"He's a special talent but still has the hunger to improve his game."

Benitez is looking to secure the futures of his key players after watching them push Manchester United all the way in the title race this season before settling for second place.

Dirk Kuyt, Daniel Agger, Steven Gerrard and Benitez himself have already signed new contracts in the last two months.

"We've made huge progress this season and now we need to take the next step," Benitez added on the club's website.

"We are building something special here and securing such important players on long-term deals means we can move forward with confidence. This sends out a very positive message to everyone connected with the club."

Your chance to lift the FA Cup

Fancy lifting the FA Cup this Saturday? We've teamed up with E.ON, sponsors of the FA Cup to give millions of fans the chance to do just that from the confort of their own home.

Using the latest digital technology - called Augmented Reality - the first ever virtual FA Cup has been created.

John Terry or Phil Neville will need to climb 107 stairs up to the Royal Box at Wembley to lift the famous trophy, but fans everywhere can get their hands on it for free from the comfort of their living room in just a few easy steps.
Once downloaded, fans can also record themselves within a mini post-match interview introduced by ITV football commentator, Clive Tyldsley, which can be sent to family and friends via email.

For the first time in the 128-year history of The FA Cup, an online version of match day programme is also available online in advance of Saturday's match between Chelsea and Everton so fans not lucky enough to be at Wembley won't be denied an essential part of the match day experience.

And to help provide the complete Wembley experience - the online programme (or i-mag) comes complete with the words to the FA Cup hymn 'Abide with Me' - sung at every Final since 1927.

Ferguson slams defensive display

Sir Alex Ferguson tore into his defenders after Manchester United had thrown away the chance of making history at the Stadio Olimpico.

Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi scored the goals which gave Barcelona a 2-0 victory, denying United the honour of becoming the first club to retain the Champions League. And while Ferguson did not name the culprits he clearly had Nemanja Vidic in mind when he described United's defending for Eto'o's first goal as "shoddy."

"In our best performances this season we have defended very well, but the defending was shoddy," said Ferguson. "The first goal didn't help. It gave them the opportunity to keep possession. We didn't plan to lose a goal early and we didn't deal with it well enough. That was the story. To lose a goal like that was a bad goal. It was a disappointing performance and some individuals will feel it themselves."

United were hoping to become the first club successfully to defend the trophy in its current format.

But while Ferguson threw on Carlos Tevez for Anderson and Dimitar Berbatov for Park Ji-Sung in a bid to turn around the match in the second-half the United boss was outfoxed tactically by Josep Guardiola.

The Barcelona coach withdrew Messi from his wide berth up front to reinforce midfield and it gave the Spaniards dominance.

It could have been more embarrassing for United as Xavi Hernandez struck a post and Thierry Henry and Carles Puyol brought fine saves from Edwin Van der Sar in a pulsating second half.

Ferguson said: "The disappointment was the use of the ball when we got possession. You have to wait minutes to get it back off them. Could be it was an off night. Could be it was a mountain too big to climb.

"We knew what a good football team they were. We had difficulty in defending against them. Messi dropped into midfield and they kept possession and made it difficult for us."

Pietersen blow for England

Kevin Pietersen has been ruled out of England's three-match NatWest one-day international series against the West Indies after sustaining an Achilles problem.

England's best batsman suffered the injury during the second Test victory at Chester-le-Street and was ruled out of the remainder of the series after training on Wednesday, just 24 hours before the opening match at Headingley.

The injury gives Pietersen just two weeks to recover before the start of England's ICC World Twenty20 campaign, which has already been undermined with all-rounder Andrew Flintoff struggling to recover from a recent knee operation in time for the start of the tournament. Pietersen will undertake a period of rest and treatment on the right Achilles injury, but England are hopeful he will recover to play a full part in their World Twenty20 campaign.

Nick Peirce, the England and Wales Cricket Board's chief medical officer, explained: "The injury would not necessarily prevent him from playing.

"But by giving him a precautionary period of time out to receive some concentrated treatment and rest we are enabling the niggle to settle down in preparation for the ICC World Twenty20 and the Ashes.

"This is not an injury that would preclude him from participating in either event."

Pietersen, who has not missed a one-day international for England since suffering a rib injury in Australia two years ago, confirmed: "The medical advice is to rest the Achilles.

"Although I'm frustrated to be leaving a happy and successful dressing room, I'm absolutely confident this will help me overcome what has up until now been a minor ongoing injury."

Shakhtar claim UEFA Cup triumph

Shakhtar Donetsk became the last winners of the UEFA Cup by claiming a 2-1 extra-time victory over Werder Bremen in the final in Istanbul.

Mircea Lucescu's team also became the first Ukrainian side to win a European trophy thanks to Jadson's winner in extra-time.

The final - the last to be played before the competition is rebranded as the Europa League next season - finished all square on 90 minutes after Naldo had equalised Luiz Adriano's opener. The Ukrainians should have gone ahead in the fifth minute when Luiz Adriano was allowed the time and space to turn on the edge of the box, but he fired just wide with the goal gaping.

He was almost made to pay for his profligacy a minute later as Shakhtar failed to clear Sebastian Boenisch's long throw, but Frank Baumann miscued his effort and on 24 minutes the Brazilian striker made amends - seizing on a through-ball that had wrong-footed the Bremen defence and lifting a sumptuous chip over onrushing Werder goalkeeper Tim Wiese.

But just as Shakhtar were threatening to extend their advantage, Bremen hit back in thunderous fashion through their own Brazilian, Naldo stepping up in the 34th minute to hammer a free-kick at Andrei Pyatov with such ferocity that the goalkeeper could only help it on its way into the net.

At the other end Wiese looked far more assured in denying Mariusz Lewandowski's powerful strike and the teams went in level at the end of an absorbing first half.

Wiese was back in action soon after the restart, doing well to punch away Darijo Srna's free-kick from the right and Jadson's strike from the left.

With the game petering out extra-time looked increasingly likely and once it got under way, it was almost inevitable that it would be an error that would finally settle the issue.

Less predictable was that Wiese would be the culprit, horribly misjudging Jadson's soft shot from 12 yards and undoing all his good work through the night by letting it bobble past him into the net.

Scotland job appeals to Moyes

Everton manager David Moyes admits that one day he would like to be manager of Scotland, but that the England job would never be a consideration.

The Everton manager is finding himself linked with big jobs now he has guided the Toffees to the FA Cup final against Chelsea on May 30.

And his chairman Bill Kenwright says he could "manage Barcelona, no problem. But he's not going anywhere." But Moyes, also frequently linked with Manchester United, does fancy the job as manager of his country.

The Glasgow-born 46 year-old said in a BBC Inside Sport interview: "I am very ambitious and I want to win things. And I would like to do that with Everton.

"But I have always thought that the Scotland job would be something I would like to do in time, and living back in Scotland does appeal to me.

"I class that as my home and I do see that (the Scotland job) as a possibility. But I have a long way to go and a lot to do 'down here' and who knows.

"It might not be the right time for Scotland when David Moyes is available for that job."

But England is not on his radar. Moyes said: "I recall taking a call once from someone who asked whether I would be interested in the England job. And I thought he was winding me up.

"I would never get back over the border and I don't know as a Scotsman whether I would be invited back. I can say it is the one job that I have no interest in whatsoever."

Carragher driven on by Mersey mission for league title

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes the club are closer than ever to winning the Premier League title.

The Reds are on course to be the first team to lose just two league games in a season and not win the championship.

Carragher did praise Manchester United for winning their 18th crown to equal the record held by Liverpool but cannot wait to challenge them next term. It's hard to win the Premier League as our top four sides plus Barcelona probably make up the best five sides in Europe,' he said.

'That's the challenge we face. You can look at the statistics and it is impressive we've only lost two games and scored lots of goals, but United have got more points than us and credit to them - that's what matters.'

Reds goalkeeper Jose Reina added: 'When I first joined Liverpool we were something like 30 points behind United, now it is only three or four points.

'We have already beaten the club record in terms of points and we tried our hardest to do our best at the end of the season.

'But it wasn't enough because United didn't slip at any time.

'We are really proud to be closer but we will be even prouder to win it. That is the next step.' Brazilian Lucas admits it was hard to watch as United gained the point needed to win the title on Saturday, and he could not bear to see their title celebrations.

'I watched the game but when they were about to receive the trophy I switched off my TV,' the midfielder said.

'Last year in January we were out of the fight for the title, this time we were right up there.

'We have to believe in ourselves. We have the quality to win the title.'

Ireland nowhere near new City deal

Manchester City star Stephen Ireland insists he is a long way from agreeing a new contract with the Eastlands club.

Reports last week suggested the midfielder was set to be offered a big-money four-year deal after excelling in a season which saw him shortlisted for the PFA's Young Player of the Year award.

The 22-year-old believes his performances this term speak for themselves and has called on the City hierarchy to resolve his future. We're nowhere with the contract, to be honest, we're still a long way off. Talks have barely started,' he told the Daily Mirror.

'I don't know what's going to happen and if I'm going to sign or not sign. It's out of my hands right now, it's up to the club, not me.

'It's getting to the stage now where I don't know if I'm going to be signing or not. I think I've done enough this year, let my football do the talking.

'The club haven't really made an offer yet. If they make one great - if not, I've got two years left.'

Ashley to blame for Newcastle mess, says Shepherd

Former Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd insists Mike Ashley is solely to blame for the club's relegation plight and urged the current regime to stop 'whingeing'.

Shepherd sold the club to Ashley nearly two years ago having himself suffered criticism for his running of the club.

Since then, however, the Magpies have lurched from crisis to crisis and are staring relegation in the face heading into the final weekend of the Premier League season.

And Shepherd told The Sun: 'Relegation would be an absolute disaster in terms of corporate and the crowd.

'It took us 12-15 years to get a big ground, a great academy and a good set of players. We left and all of a sudden there's a disaster. And you can't make a profit out of a disaster.

'One thing that is really upsetting is the whingeing that is going on. They blame everyone but themselves.

'They have to look at themselves and say 'what have we done wrong here' and not start blaming other people. It annoys me that they seem to blame me all the time.

'Every year we were there we made a profit. There is only one person to blame and that's the guy who decides who is going to run the club.

'Lots of people can buy football clubs but not many can run them.'

Sunderland stay in contention for drop

Sunderland's bid for Barclays Premier League survival will go to the wire after two defensive howlers allowed Portsmouth to snatch victory at Fratton Park tonight.

The Black Cats could have secured their top flight status with a win and they took the lead with a 59th minute strike from Kenwyne Jones.

But Portsmouth then scored twice inside seven minutes through John Utaka and Phil Bardsley's own-goal after a dreadful gaffe from Anton Ferdinand.

Portsmouth wrapped up the victory three minutes from time after Armand Traore was allowed acres of space to angle his shot inside the far post.

The only consolation for Sunderland ahead of next Sunday's final league game at home to Chelsea is that their top-flight future remains in their own hands.

Sunderland remain a point better off than Hull, who host Manchester United, and two ahead of local rivals Newcastle.

'Anton's [Ferdinand] obviously held up his hand,' said Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia.

'It's happening too often in general - we play well, we think we're sort of in charge of the game.

'We knew in the second half they'd push on to us and close us down. but we got off to a good start. Kenwyne scored and from then on we should have been a bit more confident and bossed the game.

'We kept the lead for two minutes, and that's not acceptable. The second goal was a bad mistake by Anton. He switched off. I would imagine he should have just put his foot through it and helped it on.

'From then on I thought we played reasonably well. We left ourselves open late on - we were obviously trying to go for the equaliser.'

Wenger won't quit Arsenal for Real this summer

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood insists boss Arsene Wenger won't quit the Emirates for Real Madrid this summer. The Gunners chief also slammed shareholders for their 'disgraceful' criticisms of the French manager.

In the wake of a Champions League semi-final mauling by Manchester United which confirmed a fourth trophyless season for the north Londoners, the French boss suffered the wrath of some fans during the forum at the Emirates Stadium on May 14.

Wenger's youngsters were accused of lacking backbone, defender Mikael Silvestre was branded "geriatric" and striker Emmanuel Adebayor also came in for fierce personal criticism over his performances this term. Reports this week have suggested Wenger could be tempted by a move to Real Madrid after he refused to rule out the possibility when quizzed on French television this week.

And Hill-Wood insists the flak aimed his way was the last thing needed at such a sensitive time. 'Frankly, some of the questions were quite disgraceful,' he told the Daily Mirror. 'There you have the most successful manager in our history and two or three of the shareholders made the most negative and somewhat hostile and sarcastic comments, which I think were completely out of order.

'I was very upset by the questions, I have to say. We, and he, kindly agreed to have this meeting and whether we have another one is a moot point.

'Arsene was very diplomatic and honest in his answers and deserves great credit for that. But I wouldn't have been anything like as polite if they had asked me.

Hill-Wood also quashed suggestions Wenger, whose contract runs until 2011, was set to leave Emirates Stadium any time soon.

He told the Daily Star: 'Arsene is here and under contract, and I am sure that is how it is going to remain.

'I think he is a big enough man to accept that a few people are not prepared to be reasonable.

'I think we all have to accept criticism, but you expect it to be reasonably constructive, rather than destructive.'

Bednar suspended following drugs claims

Striker Roman Bednar has been suspended by West Brom following allegations he bought illegal drugs.

The 26-year-old Czech international was named and pictured in a newspaper report on Sunday morning and the midlands club have taken swift action.

A statement from the Barclays Premier League club read: "Roman Bednar has been suspended while the club conduct an internal investigation into the matter." Bednar joined the Baggies from Hearts in August 2007, initially on loan before the deal was made permanent at a cost of £2.3million last summer.

The frontman was a revelation in his first season at The Hawthorns, finding the net 17 times in 22 starts as West Brom won promotion to the Barclays Premier League and made it to the semi-finals of the FA Cup.

This term he has started just 12 times in the league, coming off the bench on 14 occasions, and has scored six goals.

Bednar signed for Hearts from Czech club Mlada Boleslav in July 2005.

Celtic held at Hibs

Celtic's Clydesdale Bank Premier League title challenge suffered a blow when they were held to a goalless draw by Hibernian at Easter Road.

Gary Caldwell and Scott McDonald missed good chances in the first half after Hoops' keeper Artur Boruc had saved well from Steven Fletcher's over-head kick but the champions could not get the second-half breakthrough despite incessant pressure

Celtic host Hearts at Parkhead next week in the last game of the season while Rangers travel to Dundee United two points clear of the champions.

Hibs had dented the Ibrox club's title challenge with a 1-1 draw at Easter Road in midweek but they could barely get out of their own half in the opening moments as Celtic quickly took a grip.

But in the seventh minute, seconds after they had won their first corner of the game, the Leithers had their first effort on goal when skipper Rob Jones headed a Derek Riordan cross over the bar from 10 yards. The champions, though, treated that let-off as a mere blip.

However, in the 22nd minute, it was Boruc who was the first keeper to be called in to action. To end a brief spell of Hibs pressure, the Hoops' keeper pulled off a fine save from Fletcher's overhead kick, after the Easter Road striker had latched on to a searching Ross Chisholm cross.

Six minutes from the interval Caldwell should have taken advantage of a pin-point Shunsuke Nakamura free-kick from wide on the left but he failed to get enough on his header and the ball slipped past the far post and the waiting Andreas Hinkel.

In the final minute Celtic missed another decent chance to get the breakthrough when McDonald latched on to a long pass from Caldwell but he screwed his shot from 14 yards wide of the far post.

In the 65th minute Hibs keeper Yves Ma-Kalambay did well to claw away Aiden McGeady's cut-back from the bye-line which was heading for Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, who had replaced Georgios Samaras.

It was all becoming increasingly tense and in the 71st minute Ma-Kalambay did well again when he blocked McDonald's angled drive after the Australia international had been set up by Vennegoor of Hesselink, who soon afterwards headed a Hinkel cross over the bar.

Blues win in Hiddink's Bridge farewell

Florent Malouda and Nicolas Anelka gave Chelsea a 2-0 victory over Blackburn in the last match at Stamford Bridge under the charge of temporary head coach Guus Hiddink.

The Dutchman is set to return to his full-time role with the Russian national team following the end of the season, which will conclude with the FA Cup final at Wembley.

Chelsea were good value for their win, with Blackburn also putting on a decent performance despite having little to play for. The Blues, who have a slim chance to catch Liverpool in runners-up spot, started brightly, and took the lead after just four minutes.

Anelka escaped down the right, before whipping the ball back onto the penalty spot, where Malouda arrived on queue to crash a bullet header past Paul Robinson.

Rovers had a chance to get quickly back on level terms, but captain Ryan Nelsen headed El-Hadji Diouf's right-wing cross over from six yards.

Frank Lampard struck the crossbar after being played in by Anelka, before Gael Givet had to be alert to hack away Malouda's chip over the goalkeeper.

Chelsea continued in determined mood following the restart and doubled their lead after 59 minutes.

Cole's ball in was missed by Malouda, but Didier Drogba touched back for Anelka on the edge of the Blackburn penalty area. The French striker needed no second invitation, and drilled in his 18th league goal of the season, to draw level with United forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

Robinson produced a fine reaction save from Anelka at point-blank range during stoppage time before Chelsea and their departing coach all enjoyed a lap of appreciation after the final whistle.

Baggies go down

West Brom went down fighting as Liverpool edged to within one point of being confirmed as Barclays Premier League runners-up. after a 2-0 win.

Albion's players gave everything in a defiant last stand at The Hawthorns to avoid relegation, but Liverpool still stretched their unbeaten league run to 10 matches.

Football Writers' player of the year Steven Gerrard struck his 24th of the season in the first half to record his best seasonal tally to date, with Dirk Kuyt driving in the second with 27 minutes left. Albion, sticking to their attacking policy, have been battling the drop all season and this was their third relegation from the top flight in seven years.

They fought to the last, and there were more cheers than tears from their defiant fans at the end.

But Liverpool were a class above as Gerrard struck in the first half and then set up Dirk Kuyt for the second just after the hour mark.

The Reds looked uncomfortable early on - but were handed the lead by a shocking piece of defending after 28 minutes. Defender Shelton Martis, with plenty of time on his hands to clear, hesitated in possession and scuffed the ball straight to Gerrard. The Liverpool skipper surged away and clipped the ball over Dean Kiely.

Albion had strong claims for a penalty turned down after 60 minutes when Lucas' last ditch challenge sent Ryan Donk tumbling as he went for a Juan Carlos Menseguez cross.

But after 63 minutes Liverpool struck again. Gerrard fed Kuyt and the Dutchman surged at retreating defenders before drilling the ball past Kiely from the edge of the box.

Luke Moore struck a post for the home side and Marc-Antoine Fortune had an effort disallowed for offside while Ryan Babel and Lucas missed chances at the other end.

Sbragia wants safety secured on Monday

Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia is eager to avoid a nerve-jangling Barclays Premier League finale against Chelsea.

The Black Cats face an anxious wait to see where they will sit in the league table by the time they run out at Portsmouth on Monday night. If all goes well for them over the weekend, a point at Fratton Park could effectively secure their top-flight status. However, wins for Newcastle over Fulham at St James' Park and Hull at Bolton would send the Wearsiders into the relegation zone.

Sbragia said: "This is the big one for us. I would hope not to go into the last game of the season and need something. It's possible, you can always do it, but at the present we are just thinking about this Portsmouth game." Sunderland started the weekend in 16th place, two points better off than the Magpies and the Tigers, and two adrift of Portsmouth in 15th, with Paul Hart's side themselves not yet mathematically safe.

However, the Black Cats have won only one of their last 11 games and taken just six points from a possible 33 in the process, and they have collected a meagre two points from the last 18 they have contested on the road.

That particular failing is one Sbragia has blamed in part on his own naivety.

He said: "We have not been consistent and the league shows that. We went to clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool and played a formation.

"Maybe in my naivety, I thought we could go to some clubs and play 4-4-2.

"I thought we could beat West Brom with a 4-4-2, but on the day, it didn't work for us.

"Maybe we have to address that and look at it and be a little bit more difficult away from home to beat and be much more solid, and in some cases, just try to steal a goal."

Pompey may see big-name exits

Portsmouth have admitted big-name players may have to be sold this summer whether or not the club remains in the Premier League for a seventh successive season.

Pompey's executive chairman Peter Storrie says their uncertain future hinges on the ownership issue - with current supremo Alexandre Gaydamak having made it clear he wants to sell and will no longer invest.

With the club reportedly £65million in debt and due to pay off a large chunk of that to a South African bank at the end of the season, Storrie admits: "I'd like to keep all our good players but a lot depends on the ownership issue." He added: "We can bring in a new owner but it has to be one who can put finance in because that's what is required for the club to go forward again.

"At this moment in time what happens in the transfer market depends entirely on the ownership of the club.

"Sacha (Gaydamak) has made it perfectly clear that although he's done some fantastic things in the past he cannot now put in any more finance.

"At the moment various discussions are happening on that and I'm hopeful something will happen sooner rather than later."

Meanwhile, caretaker-manager Paul Hart has a clean bill of health - apart from injured Kranjcar - from which to choose his team to face fellow strugglers Sunderland on Monday and will be odds-on to keep the job with a new contract for next season should he keep Pompey in the top-flight.

But he could soon be plunged into major negotiations with no fewer than 15 players out of contract this summer including skipper Sol Campbell, 34, Pompey's top earner.

Colly wobbles over Freddie blow

England's World Twenty20 plans may be thrown into disarray if Andrew Flintoff does not, as he fears, win his race to be fit in time following knee surgery.

Flintoff delivered his bombshell on Friday, during a washed-out second day of the second npower Test against West Indies - leaving Twenty20 captain Paul Collingwood already considering a campaign without his most obvious match-winner.

Following Flintoff's revelation his schedule might prove "too tight", Collingwood said: "I think we're still waiting on how his fitness will be over the next couple of weeks. It would obviously be a big blow if he's not in it, but we'll have to overcome it." Collingwood acknowledges Flintoff's absence would leave a big hole.

"He's very much two players in one - as I've always said," he explained.

"It would be a huge blow if he wasn't going to be fit, but we certainly have the players in the squad to overcome that in many ways."

England and Wales Cricket Board chief executive David Collier, meanwhile, was confirming talks with Pakistan to play a four-Test series in this country next summer - with the possibility of those tourists also 'hosting' two more Tests against Australia here in 2010.

Collier confirmed: "Yes, we are talking to Pakistan. We anticipate that that agreement is very close.

"We've still got to tie up the details with Pakistan, but the schedule is feasible.

"I think we've also got a broader responsibility to the global game. We all recognise that Pakistan are having an issue in terms of being able to stage their home matches."

Bruce: Reds will have to wait

Liverpool have been warned that it could take them years to break Manchester United's stranglehold on the Barclays Premier League.

The warning over Liverpool's future ambitions comes from a Manchester United legend, their former captain Steve Bruce. Bruce's Wigan could not halt United's progress on Wednesday, and he feels Liverpool will also struggle to get on terms with the current European and world champions in the foreseeable future.

He said: "When we were chasing for the title back in the 80s and 90s, it was always Liverpool we were chasing because they always seemed to win it. Now Liverpool are in the same position, and they have got to overtake a really young, vibrant Manchester United to win the title. They may look at that team and wish there was some old ones in it!" He added: "But they will keep trying, Liverpool demands that, but it will be very, very difficult for them to overtake United again.

"United tried for 26 years without winning the title, and now they have won it so many times since and look likely to do it again now. The first time is always the most difficult after so long."

Xabi Alonso will return from an ankle injury on Sunday to face West Brom at The Hawthorns, where Liverpool can all but condemn the midlanders to relegation with a win.

The Spain international missed last week's win at West Ham with the injury, where Fernando Torres was withdrawn in the second half following concerns over his hamstring problems.

But Torres will also feature against relegation-haunted Albion, while Javier Mascherano has also shaken off an ankle problem.

Wenger laments Arsenal criticism

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted he feels hurt by the criticism his side has come in for this season. The Gunners have again failed to claim a major trophy this term, having to settle for a fourth-placed finish in the Premier League and being knocked out by Manchester United in the last four of the UEFA Champions League.

Wenger, though, insists his side's season should not be regarded as a failure. "When you look now at people assessing the situations of the clubs, it has become ridiculous," he told The Guardian. "It is unbelievable. If you do not take a distance with it, you think: 'What kind of world do we live in?' "We lose against Man United who have ten times more resources, it's not a shame. They are the best in the world. Congratulations to them. If you play tennis tomorrow and you lose against (Rafael) Nadal, you can still say you are a good player."

Indeed, far from looking back on the campaign with regret, Wenger believes it has been full of positives as his side overcame a tough start go on a fine run. "For me, it's one of the best seasons for a long time considering where we were in November," he said.

"It's not like we lost against Cardiff (City) in the FA Cup, we have lost against Chelsea in the semi-final and we have lost against Manchester United in the Champions League semi-final. It hurts, believe me, but it's not like we have lost against nobody.

"I believe as well we have to keep a little bit of common sense. Our average age in midfield is 22. Normally, you play not to go down in the Premier League with a team like that."

Wenger believes the fans at the Emirates Stadium are not getting behind the team. "There is a massive difference between the away fans, who are absolutely fantastic, and the home fans," he added.

World Cup boosts South African pride

The prospect of playing host in 2010 to the most-watched sports event on earth - the FIFA World Cup™ - is giving South African pride and confidence a solid boost according to the latest market research conducted on FIFA's behalf.


These findings are from the second instalment of a six-wave public opinion survey and show a pronounced upward trend in South Africans' anticipation of the event as well as a deeper understanding of the benefits it can bring to the host nation.

The results of the survey, which was carried out by international research agency SPORT+MARKET, come just one month before South Africa prepares to host the FIFA Confederations Cup. Given that this tournament is regarded by many as the "championship of champions" and is a major international sporting event, the survey suggests that South Africa is more than ready to embrace world-class football and recognise the legacy such tournaments can leave behind.

The following are key extracts from the findings (percentage point change from the first-wave scores in January 2009 in brackets):



* Big leap in confidence - 83 per cent feel their country will be ready to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup (+10)
* An overwhelming 94 per cent (+6) are proud that South Africa is hosting the competition, with 89 per cent (+8) saying the event will bring long-term benefits to the country
* 92 per cent (+5) believe that hosting the competition will lead to an upgrade in infrastructure, notably public transport, roads and telecommunications
* 90 per cent (+7) believe the FIFA World Cup will improve South Africa's image abroad
* 96 per cent (+5) expect the competition to be a fillip for the country's tourism industry
* South Africans are determined to enjoy the FIFA World Cup irrespective of Bafana Bafana's performance. 86 per cent say their interest is unaffected by the performance of the national team (no comparison as this question was not asked in the first wave).

Lingering doubts do remain, however: 58 per cent of respondents believe that crime will be a concern for visitors to the FIFA World Cup, with the same amount anticipating increased congestion problems in South African cities. Furthermore, 59 per cent have concerns about the possibility of inflated prices in South Africa as a result of the tournament.

Source: FIFA.com

Player of the Year honour surprises Gerrard

Steven Gerrard claims he was surprised to be named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.

The England midfielder beat off competition from Manchester United's Ryan Giggs - the recently-crowned PFA Player of the Year - and Wayne Rooney.

He is the first Liverpool player since John Barnes in 1990 to claim the honour
I'm delighted but I'm a little bit surprised,' said the 28-year-old England international.

'When you look at the quality of the players there are in this league, it's a great privilege to win this kind of award.

'It's not just the Manchester United players. When you look at the players the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal and other teams have got, they all have fantastic players throughout their squads now.

'The quality is getting better and better each year so to win this award is a great achievement for myself.

'It's made even more special for me because I am following in the footsteps of Liverpool players like John Barnes, Steve Nicol and Kenny Dalglish who were heroes of mine.

'Then further back players like Ian Callaghan and Terry McDermott who were heroes to my dad and so many other Liverpool fans.'

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez had nothing but praise for his captain, who has been the driving force behind their bid to challenge Manchester United for the Premier League title.

'I'm really pleased for Steven,' said the Spaniard.

'It is fantastic for him because he was competing with a lot of good players.

'For him to be named player of the year is massive credit to him and shows just how much he has achieved.'

Chairman of the FWA Steve Bates, chief football writer for The People, said: 'Steven's performances this season have been of the highest quality.

'His drive and desire have underpinned Liverpool's Premier League title challenge and ensured a tight finish to the season.

'Steven is clearly in his prime and quite rightly rated one of the finest midfield players of his generation, and the FWA are delighted to honor his contribution to club and country.'

Gerrard will receive the trophy at an Football Writers' Association gala dinner in London on May 29.

Tevez future in doubt as agent denies United have made fresh offer

Carlos Tevez seems increasingly likely to leave Manchester United this summer after his advisers denied Sir Alex Ferguson's claim that the striker has been made an offer to stay.

No sooner had Sir Alex Ferguson eulogised about Tevez's contribution to United's 2-1 win at Wigan last night, and revealed a contract offer had been put to the Argentine, than a statement was released on agent Kia Joorabchian's behalf insisting there was no deal.

'(Chief executive) David Gill has had a good meeting and I have spoken to him [Tevez]. We have given him an offer and we hope he accepts,' said Ferguson.

The fans love him because he is a trier. He has great skill, of course, but he never gives in and that is a great quality to have. He has a hunger to fight all the time. It is wonderful to see.

'The problem is we are not negotiating with a football club.'

In fact, United are dealing with Joorabchian, who was allowed to keep Tevez's registration at the start of a two-year loan period but must now relinquish it if the South American is to remain in the Premier League.

"'t is true David Gill came to see Mr Joorabchian and they had a cordial meeting,' said Joorabchian's spokesman.

'It is categorically untrue that Manchester United made an offer to try to persuade Carlos Tevez to stay at the club.

'In 2007 Manchester United agreed a two-year loan deal for Carlos Tevez and at the same time agreed the terms that would make the transfer permanent. They have not taken up that option.'

If no deal is agreed Tevez will be free to negotiate with any club willing to pay Joorabchian's rumoured £22million asking price.

Liverpool, Manchester City, Inter Milan and Real Madrid have all been linked with the former West Ham striker.

Wenger and Gunners are not in crisis, says Gazidis

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger can expect a grilling when he meets the club's shareholders today but his chief executive Ivan Gazidis insists the Gunners are not a club in crisis.

Wenger will attend a question-and-answer session with the shareholders following another trophy-less campaign but has been given the total support of Gazidis, who also insisted the Frenchman will take an open-minded approach to the make-up of his squad next season.

'I am not happy where we ended up but I am pleased we are disappointed by it,' Gazidis said. 'There are other clubs who would feel this is a good position. So why aren't we feeling great about it? The answer is because we have higher expectations.

'But this is not a situation where we should be over-reactive and feel that we are in crisis. We are not.

'We have a team with an average age of 23 or 24 that went to the Champions League semi-finals and is going to get better.'

Wenger has also faced criticism for his refusal to spend big money on established internationals - with the exception of Andrey Arshavin.

'He is not closed-minded,' added Gazidis. 'The idea Arsene Wenger is some stubborn guy who is not open to having his ideas challenged and there is nobody there who can say "listen we need someone with experience in the middle of the park or at the back", just isn't true.'

Emirates Stadium chiefs, meanwhile, have denied reports assistant manager Pat Rice will retire at the end of the season.

'He remains a key part of Arsene Wenger's backroom staff,' insisted a club spokesman.

United stars 'rapped Ronaldo' for derby tantrum

Senior Manchester United players reportedly reprimanded Cristiano Ronaldo following the World Player of the Year's temper tantrum during Sunday's derby at Old Trafford.

Ronaldo showed his dissent towards Sir Alex Ferguson and United backroom staff after being substituted after an hour of the 2-0 win over Manchester City - with the game seemingly won.

Ferguson has refused to comment in public but Ronaldo's antics have drawn strong criticism from pundits and fans and it is believed the United forward's team-mates also made their displeasure clear to the 24-year-old. A club source told The Sun: 'A number were unhappy sbout Ronaldo's behaviour and told him so.

'A lot of these players have grown up with Alex Ferguson as their manager and don't like seeing anyone show him disrespect.'

Ronaldo is expected to be in the United team to face Wigan at the JJB Stadium tonight but Latics boss Steve Bruce, a former Red Devil, has told him he would be mad to leave Old Trafford.

Ronaldo is again being linked with a transfer to Real Madrid but Bruce said: 'Once you leave Old Trafford you find it very difficult.

'Not many have gone on to do well elsewhere, whether they have been a reserve or have been there ten years. It's very difficult to adjust.'

Gerrard claims Writers' prize

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been voted the 2009 Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.

The 28-year-old England international topped the poll of journalists ahead of Manchester United duo Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney to win the prestigious accolade, which has been running since 1948.

Gerrard, who has led the Reds' challenge to United for the Barclays Premier League title, will receive his award at the FWA's gala dinner at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on May 29. Chairman of the FWA Steve Bates, chief football writer for The People, said: "Steven's performances this season have been of the highest quality.

"His drive and desire have underpinned Liverpool's Premier League title challenge and ensured a tight finish to the season.

"Steven is clearly in his prime and quite rightly rated one of the finest midfield players of his generation, and the FWA are delighted to honour his contribution to club and country."

Tevez adviser won't rule out Liverpool or City move

Carlos Tevez adviser Kia Joorabchian has refused to rule out the possibility of the Argentina striker signing for one of Manchester United's biggest rivals Liverpool or Manchester City this summer.

Tevez has already admitted he expects to leave Old Trafford at the end of the month following the end of his two-year loan, despite being a big favourite with the fans.

United are unwilling to pay the estimated £22million needed to turn the loan deal into a permanent one and Premier League rivals Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur have all been linked with the player – as have Italian giants AC Milan and Spanish champions Real Madrid.

Joorabchian admitted Tevez's preference is to stay in England after successful spells at West Ham and United and that playing in the Champions League will not be a deciding factor – meaning mega-rich Manchester City are in the running to sign the player.

'Everyone wants to play in the biggest competition they can and the Champions League is the biggest, but Carlos is not the kind of person that says I have to play for this club in this situation,' Joorabchian told Sky Sports.

'What he wants to do is to go to a club that has a real ambition to be champions of England and champions of Europe.

'He would have to go to a rival to achieve that target but he also understands that it is not in his control.'

When asked specifically about the chances of Tevez signing for City, Joorabchian added: 'I don't want to direct (speculation by) saying it is going to be Liverpool, City, Chelsea, Arsenal, Everton, Tottenham, Milan, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus.'

Joorabchian did admit the player is likely to leave Old Trafford through after the club failed to offer him a new deal.

'He feels there is a very big chance that his time has come to an end and it is time to move on,' he added.

'He loved his time there, he mentioned that, and the glory he has had there has been very special to him.

'But the fact that they have not offered him a contract or made any effort to sign him up means that he probably has to move on and think about his own future.'

And the player's agent Adrian Ruocco added: 'On May 31, he will have no club and no contract. I don't know why, but Manchester (United) have not asked for any renewal (of the loan) nor signing him for next season.

'The directors and the coach do not seem to want him, while on the other hand fans love him.'

Boro won't give up fight

Gareth Southgate refuses to accept Middlesbrough are doomed to relegation, despite last night's damaging Tyne-Tees derby defeat at Newcastle.

Boro took the lead at St James' Park but second-half goals from Obafemi Martins and Peter Lovenkrands earned Newcastle a 3-1 win, lifting the Magpies out of the relegation zone and leaving the visitors deep in trouble.

Southgate's men are three points from safety with two games to go, but the Boro boss insists they will not give up the fight.

It's difficult for us to take, but we have to lift ourselves,' he said of last night's defeat.

'Even though it's out of our hands now, we have got six points to play for. We have to try to take them, and you just never know.

'It might still happen. We have got to just win our matches.'

Boro host Southgate's former club Aston Villa on Saturday before finishing their season away to West Ham on May 24.

Southgate, who lost record signing Afonso Alves to a suspected broken bone in his foot at Newcastle, was left to reflect on key decisions which went against his side in the run-up to Martins' strike.

He said: 'For them to lose in manner we did having gone ahead is very difficult for all of us to take. It's a tough evening for everyone associated with our football club.

'The players gave everything, but unfortunately, key events on the night went against us.

'The second goal, looking at the television pictures, I thought at the time it was a foul on Huth by Viduka, but it was also offside.

'It then dropped straight to their guy - they are key things and unfortunately, they didn't go for us.'

Spurs boss Redknapp to ban booze after King arrest

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp says he'll ban his players from drinking alcohol after Ledley King's weekend arrest outside a London nightclub.

Defender King was arrested for an alleged assault in the early hours of Sunday morning, after a night out drinking with friends.

And Redknapp claimed: 'I'll implement a strong rule next season that drinking is a no-no here. Footballers should not drink.
You shouldn't put diesel in a Ferrari. I know it's hard but they are earning big money, they are role models to kids. They should dedicate their lives to playing.'

King has since apologised to Redknapp, describing the incident as 'a night out with friends" which "went too far'.

But the Tottenham boss added: 'We wouldn't get these problems if the players weren't drinking. 'There's still too much of a drinking culture in English football but it's not as bad as it used to be.

'At Tottenham we do a lot with kids, a lot of them underprivileged.

'We have to set an example. Too much drinking goes on in this country. Too many people are not happy unless they have had a drink.'

Arsenal new boy Arshavin 'baffled' by left-wing role

Arsenal's bad week appears to have got worse, with new Emirates Stadium idol Andrey Arshavin claiming he is 'baffled' by Arsene Wenger's insistence on playing him on the left wing.

The Russian playmaker has proved a huge hit in north London, scoring six goals in ten Premier League starts and quickly establishing himself as a favourite with supporters.

However, Gunners boss Wenger has often deployed the 27-year-old on the left of midfield, a decision Arshavin - used to playing as a second striker for Zenit St Petersburg and Russia - admits he struggles to understand.
'My personal plan for my initial three months with Arsenal wasn't about scoring a certain number of goals or making a set number of assists,' he told a Russian newspaper.

'I wanted to get the feeling whether I can play in England or not. Sometimes I feel that I can but other times that I don't. It's probably because that I play as a left midfielder.

'I still can't get used to the idea that I'm capable of playing on the left of midfield - and frankly having to do it keeps me baffled.

'I don't understand if it's only because God is taking care of me, or I really can play so well as a left-winger.'

Arshavin indicated he wouldn't mind being replaced in his position by another Russian - CSKA Moscow international Yuri Zhyrkov, who is strong playing all along left side of the pitch and has been linked with Chelsea.

'Yes, I know Yuri well,' added Arshavin. 'But the problem is, would he like to move to Arsenal?'

Arshavin missed the Gunners game against Chelsea on Sunday for having a flu but he expects to be fully recovered by Saturday when his team faces Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Drogba says sorry

Didier Drogba has apologised for his behaviour in the wake of Chelsea's Champions League exit at the hands of Barcelona on Wednesday night.

The striker confronted referee Tom Henning Ovrebo after the match and launched a foul-mouthed rant in front of TV cameras.

In a statement on the Blues' official website the Ivorian said: "I was very upset at what happened during the game, but having seen the pictures on TV I accept that I overreacted." The statement continued: "I also accept that the language I used did not set a good example for those watching at home, especially children.

"I regret that in the heat of the moment I let out my incredible frustration and disappointment in this way, and for that I apologise."

Drogba, who had been substituted in the second half, was shown a yellow card for coming onto the pitch to vent his fury at Ovrebo after the final whistle.

He was incensed at the referee's refusal to award Chelsea two spot-kicks in the first half at Stamford Bridge when he and Florent Malouda were brought down.

The Norwegian official also rejected two handball penalty appeals after the break when Gerard Pique handled as Nicolas Anelka tried to go past him and in the final seconds when Michael Ballack's shot hit Samuel Eto'o's arm.

That last claim came after Andres Iniesta had lashed home a 93rd-minute leveller for Barcelona to cancel out Michael Essien's opener and put the Catalans ahead on away goals.

Shearer 'would manage Newcastle in Championship'

Alan Shearer is reportedly ready to become Newcastle's permanent manager, even if the club are relegated from the Premier League.

Shearer was brought in as interim manager at St James' Park at the beginning of April but has failed to win any of his five Premier League games in charge.

That run has left the Magpies firmly in the relegation zone, three points from safety and contemplating the prospect of dropping into the Championship next season.

Shearer has yet to be drawn on his long-term plans, with speculation remaining that he will return to his job as a pundit on Match of the Day regardless of Newcastle's fate.

However, the former England captain is said to be relishing his new role and a number of changes behind the scenes have suggested the 38-year-old could be around for the long haul.

Shearer has reshaped his backroom staff, bringing in close friend Paul Ferris to oversee the club's medical team.

He has also introduced a new code of conduct for the players, and illustrated his stance on discipline by suspending Joey Barton from the club after last week's clash at Liverpool.

And newspaper reports on Friday say friends of Shearer claim the former Toon striker would feel an obligation to stick with the club if they are relegated.

The Magpies face fellow strugglers Middlesbrough in a crucial match at St James' Park on Monday with both teams desperate for the three points.

Chelsea set to cut losses on Drogba

Chelsea are expected to sell Didier Drogba in the summer after losing patience with the hot-headed striker's temper tantrums.

Drogba is facing a Uefa charge, and probably a significant suspension, after his furious reaction to Chelsea's Champions League exit at the hands of Barcelona on Wednesday.

And, according to newspaper reports on Friday, Stamford Bridge bosses were so dismayed with the Ivory Coast international they will look to offload him at the end of the season. The 31-year-old has one year left on his £90,000-a-week contract and the club were set to offer him an extension after a fine run of form since the appointment of Guus Hiddink as coach.

However, Wednesday's rant about referee Tom Henning Ovrebo has rekindled memories of Drogba's misconduct last year.

The striker was sent off in the Champions League final for hitting Nemanja Vidic, and then suspended by the Football Association for throwing a coin at Burnley fans in a Carling Cup tie at Stamford Bridge.

Drogba has frequently spoken of his desire for a move to Italy, and a possible reunion with former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan.

And it appears his latest disciplinary problems have convinced Chelsea officials to cut their losses on a player who cost £24million from Marseille in 2004.

Walcott signs new Arsenal contract

Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has signed a new long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium.

The 20-year-old joined the Gunners from Southampton in January 2006 and has since gone on to become a regular for both club and country.

The England international has made more than 100 appearances and scored 14 goals for Arsenal, who did not reveal the length of his new deal.
The youngster is in no doubt the Emirates Stadium is the best place for his career to develop.

'I am so happy here and just want to say thanks to everyone who has helped me get to this point in my career,' Walcott said in a statement.

'Together with the belief of my team-mates, the boss [Arsene Wenger] and everyone on the staff, everyone has got behind me here at Arsenal which is brilliant.

'It is fantastic to work with the best manager in the world and play at Emirates Stadium, which is an unbelievable place to play in.

'I just want to continue playing my football at this club and look forward to many successful seasons ahead.'

Wenger believes Walcott is integral to the club's future.

'Theo is an intelligent player with amazing ability and speed, and has developed extremely well this season,' said the Gunners boss.

'At still only 20 years of age, Theo has huge potential for the forthcoming years and we are all looking forward to see him grow even more in an Arsenal shirt.'

Arsenal crashed out of the Champions League with a home defeat to Manchester United in midweek, but will look to make up ground on third-placed Chelsea when they meet in the Barclays Premier League at Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Uefa chief hints at Fletcher red-card reprieve

Darren Fletcher's Champions League final suspension could be overturned after talks between Sir Alex Ferguson and top Uefa official David Taylor.

Manchester United midfielder Fletcher was dismissed late on in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final win over Arsenal for a professional foul on Cesc Fabregas.

Replays showed Fletcher played the ball but Uefa confirmed yesterday United do not have the right to appeal against the referee's decision.
As things stand Fletcher will sit out the final against Barcelona in Rome on May 27, but Taylor has hinted at a reprieve for the Scotland international.

'I have spoken with Alex Ferguson personally on this - as fate would have it we shared a car after the match,' revealed the Uefa general secretary.

'We were rather thrown together but had an interesting discussion.

'He was very fair about the referee and what had happened but equally he was very disappointed for Darren, as are we all.

'I tried to give Alex as much advice as I could with regards the procedure in these circumstances.

'There is no formal process. But if the club want to write to us with information - such as video evidence - explaining why they think this is a harsh punishment then they can do that.

'The likelihood is that we'd then refer the matter to our disciplinary body.

'They would then look to see if there were any special circumstances to justify any departure from established procedures.

'I must stress there is normally no way these matters can be overturned.'

Fletcher's hopes could hang referee Roberto Rosetti admitting to his apparent error in his match report, but Taylor concedes such an admission may not be enough to reverse the red card.

'The ref may take the view a mistake has been made and include that in his report but that wouldn't be in any way decisive,' he continued.

'It's an entirely discretionary thing, whether or not the committee feels there is reason to intervene.

'That's the position. Strictly speaking there's no appeal process but representation can be made and looked at.'

Chelsea captain Terry defends foul-mouthed Drogba over referee rant

Chelsea captain John Terry has insisted he has no problem with the way Didier Drogba reacted to last night's controversial Champions League defeat to Barcelona.

The Blues were denied a second consecutive appearance in the European Cup final by Andres Iniesta's injury-time goal which earned Barca a 1-1 draw on the night and won the tie on aggregate.

But Chelsea were infuriated that a string of penalty appeals, the last of them after Iniesta's goal, were rejected by referee Tom Henning Ovrebo.
Angry Blues players, including Terry and Drogba, surrounded the Norwegian official at the final whistle and had to be pulled away by team-mates and stewards.

Drogba then broke away to scream 'Are you watching this? It is a f***ing disgrace' down the lens of a television camera.
But, asked to reflect on the controversial scenes, England captain John Terry refused to concede that his team-mate had overreacted, and instead condoned Drogba's actions.

'I am fully behind Didier Drogba for the way he reacted,' Terry said.

'The man wants to win. You can see the passion that he played with during the game and the passion afterwards.

'It is difficult when players are so high on emotions after the game and people were saying in the Sky TV studios that we shouldn't be reacting the way we did.

'That's impossible after having six or seven decisions go against you at home in front of your own fans. I've seen them all and two were clear penalties and you don't get one. How are you supposed to feel?

'If we had been given one of those penalties we would have been cruising at 2-0. We did exactly what the manager asked of us but we are not going through because of a bad refereeing decision.'

And Terry argued Uefa should act to ensure the best referees are always put in charge of the big games, insisting Ovrebo wasn't experienced, or good enough, to be given last night's match.

'It's a shambles really. Players dream of playing in these finals but we can't through bad refereeing,' he added.

'We get a referee who has refereed ten Champions League games in his career and for him to be given the semi-final at Stamford Bridge is not good enough.

'If a referee makes bad decisions, he should face the consequences. If a player makes mistakes time after time, he will be dropped from the team, but referees just keep getting the big games at big stadiums.

'It is down to Uefa to be strong enough and say these are our four best referees and they are going to referee the home and away legs.

'Both sides had experienced players but we just didn't have the referee to go with a big game.

'Not one player made a mistake over the two legs but we come away with a referee making four or five big errors and now we are out of the competition.

'Maybe that referee would have been good enough in the group stages of the Champions League but on a big stage, with a big game and big players, he simply wasn't good enough.'

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Toure backs young Gunners

Kolo Toure maintains Arsenal's youngsters will return stronger after being taught a Champions League lesson at the hands of holders Manchester United.

The Gunners' hopes of reaching the final in Rome were effectively ended after just 11 minutes at Emirates Stadium, where the holders raced into a 3-0 aggregate lead with two early goals.

Toure said: "Nobody was expecting a lot for us this season and we showed great spirit and we are really proud of what we have done.
Manager Arsene Wenger admitted it was one the most disappointing nights of his time in charge of the Gunners, whose last trophy came back in 2005 with the FA Cup.

Arsenal have secured fourth place in the Barclays Premier League following an unbeaten run of 21 matches, but another campaign which promised so much has failed to deliver. However, Toure is in no doubt the young squad will have learnt some important lessons after being exposed by the talent of Cristiano Ronaldo and England forward Wayne Rooney.

"We are not far behind those teams. We want to win and we will try to come back and be strong," declared the Ivory Coast defender.

"The only thing we can do at the minute is to just keep players, and if we can bring some more that would be fantastic.

"The spirit is good and we hope we are going to stick together and fight together again next season."

Toure is now fully focused on his future at Arsenal, having handed in a transfer request during January after a reported training ground bust-up with William Gallas.

"When you win trophies it becomes like a habit for you," he said. "This time we did not win anything, but when we get the first trophy, you will see more from Arsenal."

UEFA rule out Fletcher appeal

Manchester United's hopes of overturning Darren Fletcher's red card have been dashed.

UEFA have confirmed that a protest against a sending off would only be allowed on the basis on mistaken identity - and not on whether the referee had been too harsh.

UEFA head of communications Rob Faulkner told PA Sport: "Manchester United have the right to file a protest within 24 hours of the match however a protest against a caution or sending off is only admissible if the referee's error was to mistake the identity of the player."
The decision means Fletcher will be suspended for the Champions League final in Rome later this month.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson had hoped referee Roberto Rosetti would have admitted it was a mistake to give Fletcher a straight red card for a foul on Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas in the box.

"He's one of the most honest players in the game and to miss the final, it's a tragedy," said Ferguson.

"In respect to the referee in this situation he might look at it himself without anyone asking him."

Although the Football Association have moved towards a position where referees regularly rescind red cards, both UEFA and FIFA strictly maintain the rules that match officials' decisions should remain sacrosanct.

A UEFA source added: "It opens Pandora's box if you can challenge every decision. And if you rule that it is not a red card, then you are also saying it is not a penalty, and therefore not a goal, and what do you do then - start changing the results of matches afterwards?"

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger also admitted the red card was "very harsh" after television pictures clearly showed Scottish international Fletcher - a non-playing substitute at last year's final - played the ball.

Last-gasp Barcelona deny Chelsea

Ten-man Barcelona robbed Chelsea of a place in the Champions League final in the cruellest of fashions with a 93rd-minute away goal at Stamford Bridge.

A stunning first-half volley from Michael Essien looked to have earned Chelsea victory and set up a repeat of last year's Champions League final against Manchester United.

But Andres Iniesta beat Petr Cech in the third minute of added time to send the Spanish bench and their fans delirious and leave Guus Hiddink crestfallen.
At the final whistle, Chelsea's players confronted referee Tom Ovrebo, who had waved away at least four penalty appeals during the game.

The scenes descended into anger when Drogba emerged from the tunnel to confront the Norwegian official and was shown a yellow card.

Ovrebo had a poor game and was marshalled down to the tunnel by Chelsea stewards as Drogba continued to complain about his performance.

The Ivorian then vented his fury by shouting "it's a f***ing disgrace" down the lens of a TV camera, and the fall-out from Drogba's behaviour may yet be met by a UEFA investigation.

It had all looked so promising for Chelsea when Essien, who missed six months of the season while he recovered from a serious knee ligament injury, despatched a 20-yard volley beyond the despairing Victor Valdes.

Chelsea's collective desire to reach the final once more was epitomised in the way they took the fire out of Barcelona's early football.

The Catalans, missing their two first-choice centre-backs through injury and suspension, played some neat, fast and accurate football in the first 20 minutes.

It was a perfect example of the beautiful game mastered by coach Pep Guardiola but it lacked the cutting edge in the absence of the injured Thierry Henry.

The Barca attack has shared more than 90 goals between them this season but Chelsea managed to prevent them scoring in 180 minutes of high-tempo football.

That Chelsea scored with their first real attack of the game would have left the Barca coach bitterly disappointed.

Frank Lampard's attempted cross cannoned off Yaya Toure and Essien despatched his volley into the net via the underside of the crossbar.

It sparked Chelsea into life and, for the remainder of the opening half, they bossed the game.

Lampard almost put Drogba through in the 22nd minute but Valdes managed to beat the Ivorian to the ball on the edge of the penalty area.

Barca were rocking now and a catalogue of fouls by Dani Alves was finally punished with a yellow card when he brought down Ashley Cole. It meant the full-back was out of the final.

But Ovrebo waved away penalty appeals from Chelsea when Drogba, a colossus in attack all night, was brought down by Eric Abidal.

The second half promised more drama and it did not disappoint. Drogba missed a gilt-edged chance when Florent Malouda and Anelka put the Ivorian clear in the 52nd minute.

Somehow, Valdes got a foot to his shot to keep Barca's hopes alive.

But the Catalans were in deep trouble in the 65th minute when Abidal brought down the free-running Anelka and, as the last defender, was shown the red card.

Chelsea continued to take the initiative as Barca were reduced to long-range shots.

In the 70th minute, Valdes saved Guardiola's side again when a Lampard shot took a wicked deflection.

But two minutes later Drogba was replaced by Juliano Belletti, much to the crowd's surprise and the Ivorian's clear disapproval.

As the clock ran down, Chelsea continued to pour forward in search of a decisive second to calm the nerves but, although they had made Barcelona look very ordinary, there was a sting in the tail.

Chelsea's heroes had fought for every ball as if their lives depended on it but they allowed Iniesta too much room and, when he beat Cech from 20 yards in the 93rd minute, chaos descended on Stamford Bridge.

But there was still time for more drama when Michael Ballack's goalbound effort seemed to hit a defender's arm only for Ovrebo to wave away more appeals.

Ballack was shown the yellow card for protesting and, when the final whistle sounded, Barca celebrated in unbridled fashion while Chelsea's players began their attacks on Ovrebo.

It was an unsavoury end to Chelsea's European campaign that may yet have further repercussions for the English side.

O'Neill confident of keeping young guns

Martin O'Neill is optimistic Aston Villa can "withstand" any offers this summer from the Barclays Premier League big guns for the club's group of talented young players.

Winger Ashley Young and striker Gabriel Agbonlahor capped off an outstanding season by being voted the PFA Young Player Of The Year and runner-up respectively.

O'Neill said: "Players are under contract. That is vitally important. With Gareth Barry, you do accept having spent 10-11 years at the club, he would be wanting to have a look at other particular things."
He added: "The rest of the boys have done well, but haven't in terms of over a long period of time for me to be overly concerned about that.

"I am quite sure I would be surprised if some people were not inquiring about our players - big teams - but I am hoping we will be able to withstand that.

"Are Villa no longer a selling club? At the moment we are pretty vibrant and that seems to be the buzz going around the Premier League.

"It will be up to us to try and maintain that. I just think there is a bit of something about the side here we would like to continue trying to improve."

O'Neill added: "I think without question that Villa a more attractive proposition than 12 months ago.

"I was down at the PFA awards with Ashley and Gabby. The vibes around the room were very positive. The kind of feeling around was that Villa have been really buzzing.

United are better by half

Ryan Giggs has called on Manchester United to repeat their first-half super show against Arsenal on Tuesday in order to complete their passage to the Champions League final.

Such was the brilliance of United's performance at Old Trafford last week, they are slightly unfortunate not to be counting down the days to Rome on May 27 already.

"If we play to the ability we did in the first half last week we will have no problems," said the former Wales skipper.
"We went out to get the crowd going and play at a quick tempo. That is what we do when we are at our best.

"Arsenal are a top team and they are capable of scoring goals so we are under no illusions about how difficult this is going to be.

"But our form in Europe has been excellent and we are in a good position."

Giggs is refusing to accept the Premier League title race is over even though the Old Trafford outfit only need seven more points from their remaining four games to be certain of holding off Liverpool's challenge.

However, the newly crowned PFA player of the year is now more interested in quelling Arsenal's threat.

"You have to look after Arsenal's quality players," said Giggs.

"They have so many matchwinners; Fabregas, Adebayor, Walcott, Van Persie, if he is fit. The threat is obvious, so you have to try and nullify it."