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."

Moyes wants more

Everton boss David Moyes is demanding even bigger things from his players as they prepare for a thrilling finale to the season.

The Toffees eased their way into fifth place in the Barclays Premier League with a comfortable win at Sunderland, and have already qualified for the Europa League by virtue of their presence in the FA Cup final.

Moyes said: "We have got to go up again. We have got to be slicker, we need to be crisper than we were, and we need to be sharper."
He added: "But it's a time of the season when there is a lot of tiredness. We have all been at it probably since the start of July now, and we are into May and we are all flagging.

"It's tough for the players at this time, but the good teams - that's why I admire all the managers and the teams who keep doing it because they have got to be fresh and good for this time of the year.

"I am going to try to get out boys into tip-top condition for the weeks to come."

Despite having to do without Phil Jagielka, Tony Hibbert and Leon Osman on Wearside, Everton were simply too good for the Black Cats, who passed up an opportunity to ease their relegation fears with another insipid display.

The visitors enjoyed much the better of the first half, but had to wait until the 48th-minute to get their noses in front.

They did so when Jo turned Anton Ferdinand to feed Steven Pienaar, who stabbed the ball past Marton Fulop from close range.

Everton completed the victory 19 minutes from time when Pienaar took full advantage of some woeful marking to square for Marouane Fellaini, who calmly slipped the ball past the stranded Fulop.

Gerrard the Reds star attraction

Steven Gerrard made sure he had his picture taken with actor Daniel Craig after guiding Liverpool to a comprehensive 3-0 destruction of Newcastle at Anfield but it is the Geordies who need the help of James Bond to get themselves out of their relegation mess.

Liverpool, led by Gerrard in typical swashbuckling fashion, had destroyed Alan Shearer's side with a 3-0 scoreline that could easily have been doubled, with three more efforts hitting the woodwork.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is waiting for the "two big mistakes I still believe United will make" in the title race.
He said: "Manchester United are a good team with good players, and they will need to make two big mistakes to let us in. But I still believe they can be caught and they will make mistakes.

"All we can do is to continue to win our matches and see how they handle pressure. We must win all our games to see how that affects them at the top."

The problems for temporary Newcastle boss Alan Shearer continue to mount. He was furious with Barton for his "stupid" tackle on Alonso.

The midfielder will be fined two weeks' wages and did his troubled time at St.James Park no good at all with his wild challenge in front of the Kop.

Shearer said: "He deserved to be sent off, he has let me, himself and the club down.

"He was not unlucky, the referee was spot-on. There was no need for him to do that in such a position."

And Shearer pulled no punches with his assessment of Newcastle's performance, saying: "We were lucky to keep it down to three, how many times did they hit the bar?"

Ferdinand boost for United

Manchester United have been given a major lift ahead of their Champions League semi-final with Arsenal as Rio Ferdinand returned to training.

It had been feared the England defender would miss Tuesday's second leg at the Emirates Stadium after suffering damage to his ribs and a bruised lung at Old Trafford last week.

But the presence of Ferdinand on the Carrington training ground this morning suggests he will face Arsene Wenger's men.
Such was the damage Ferdinand suffered in a collision with Edwin van der Sar that he was coughing up blood in the United dressing room last Wednesday.

He spent the night in hospital, although scans revealed the £29.1million England international had not suffered any extensive damage to his ribs.

Ferdinand was left out of Saturday's trip to Middlesbrough but given the importance of Tuesday's game, when United will attempt to defend a single goal lead, Sir Alex Ferguson wants the former West Ham skipper if at all possible.

Derbyshire 'hopeful' of Olympiacos switch

Blackburn's Matt Derbyshire hopes to seal a permanent switch to Greek double winners Olympiacos.

The 22-year-old striker, who moved to Greece in January on a six-month loan deal, was a pivotal figure in the Greek Cup final on Saturday, netting twice for Olympiacos as they won 15-14 on penalties against AEK Athens to take the double - the 14th in the club's trophy-laden history.

"If you're asking me if I'd like to stay here then yes, of course," the England Under-21 international told PA Sport when asked where he would like to continue his career next season. "But it isn't down to me it's down to Blackburn Rovers and Olympiacos. I'm hopeful that something will happen."
He added: "There haven't been any talks at all at the moment.

"Obviously I will have to wait until the end of the English season to see what happens with Blackburn and negotiations will hopefully start then."

Derbyshire also revealed that Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce, whose team are still not safe from relegation after Saturday's 3-1 loss at Manchester City, had not been in contact at all with the striker since he moved to Greece.

"There's been no contact whatsoever," he said. "It doesn't bother me though to be honest because he's going through a difficult period where he's fighting relegation.

"He has to concentrate on everything he has to do at Blackburn and I appreciate that."

Chelsea reveal wings of desire

Chelsea's wing wonders have revealed how the heartache of losing last year's Champions League final is driving them on to win the trophy this season.

Florent Malouda, who scored one of the goals in their 3-1 victory over Fulham on Saturday, has flourished under Guus Hiddink's managerial tenure and Salomon Kalou, who popped up with the winner against West Ham the previous week, has finally begun to realise his full potential.

"Last year, to be in the final, was a very good experience but also bad," said former Lyon winger Malouda. "We are all determined now to get to Rome and win the trophy because we have come close before."
He added: "This now means that our desire is even stronger than it has ever been. The Champions League is a very important competition for any player."

The pair hope to be tormenting the Barcelona defence on Wednesday night in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final.

But after a majestic attacking display from Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba against Fulham, one of them may well lose out.

Anelka and Drogba both got on the score sheet while Kalou had to be content with a place on the bench and that is where the Ivorian may remain when the team is announced for return clash with the Spanish giants.

Chelsea have a slight advantage going into the second leg after their goalless draw in Spain, but Malouda and Kalou are in unison when it comes to revealing the impetus behind the team's desire to win the Champions League.

Malouda added: "For me, my emotion started at Lyon because we tried to win it but never passed the quarter-finals and now at Chelsea, we have a very good chance because our team is strong.

"We all know going to Rome is going to be difficult but we have ambition and the ability to win the competition. We know we can do it. We need to stay focused on our target and achieve our goal."

Chelsea reveal wings of desire

Chelsea's wing wonders have revealed how the heartache of losing last year's Champions League final is driving them on to win the trophy this season.

Florent Malouda, who scored one of the goals in their 3-1 victory over Fulham on Saturday, has flourished under Guus Hiddink's managerial tenure and Salomon Kalou, who popped up with the winner against West Ham the previous week, has finally begun to realise his full potential.

"Last year, to be in the final, was a very good experience but also bad," said former Lyon winger Malouda. "We are all determined now to get to Rome and win the trophy because we have come close before."
He added: "This now means that our desire is even stronger than it has ever been. The Champions League is a very important competition for any player."

The pair hope to be tormenting the Barcelona defence on Wednesday night in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final.

But after a majestic attacking display from Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba against Fulham, one of them may well lose out.

Anelka and Drogba both got on the score sheet while Kalou had to be content with a place on the bench and that is where the Ivorian may remain when the team is announced for return clash with the Spanish giants.

Chelsea have a slight advantage going into the second leg after their goalless draw in Spain, but Malouda and Kalou are in unison when it comes to revealing the impetus behind the team's desire to win the Champions League.

Malouda added: "For me, my emotion started at Lyon because we tried to win it but never passed the quarter-finals and now at Chelsea, we have a very good chance because our team is strong.

"We all know going to Rome is going to be difficult but we have ambition and the ability to win the competition. We know we can do it. We need to stay focused on our target and achieve our goal."

Phillips fires Blues to promotion

Birmingham clinched automatic promotion to the Barclays Premier League with a 2-1 win over Reading, condemning their hosts to the play-offs.

Reading goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann gifted the visitors the lead in the 19th minute when Keith Fahey's curled effort from outside the box squirmed through his grasp and over the line.

Kevin Phillips doubled their lead on the hour but seconds later Marek Matejovsky reduced the deficit.
The result ended Sheffield United's hopes of sneaking into the automatic promotion places as their goalless draw at Crystal Palace had little effect on the standings.

Burnley join them in the play-offs following a 4-0 win over Bristol City, thanks to two Graham Alexander penalties either side of Wade Elliott's thunderous volley and a late fourth from Joey Gudjonsson.

Preston beat QPR 2-1 to grab the last play-off spot by virtue of having scored one more goal than promotion-rivals Cardiff.

Sean St Ledger scored the crucial 74th-minute winner after Patrick Agyemang had levelled matters following Jon Parkin's first-half strike.

That ensured final day heartbreak for Cardiff, who lost 1-0 at Sheffield United with Jermaine Johnson's stunning half-volley putting an end to their Premier League dreams.

Champions Wolves wrapped up their campaign with a 1-0 home win over Doncaster, with Richard Stearman's stoppage-time winner ensuring they take the title by seven points.

Reds cruise past Magpies

Liverpool pushed 10-man Newcastle closer towards the Coca-Cola Championship while keeping their own title hopes alive with a 3-0 win at Anfield.

Newcastle were outplayed as the Reds kept the pressure on leaders Manchester United with first-half goals from Yossi Benayoun and Dirk Kuyt, and a late header from Lucas.

Newcastle's plight worsened when Joey Barton was sent off for a bad tackle on Xabi Alonso with 11 minutes left.

Yobo impresses Moyes

Everton manager David Moyes has backed Joseph Yobo to step up to the mark in the absence of injured defender Phil Jagielka.

Centre-back Jagielka is recovering from an operation in midweek to repair the anterior ligament he ruptured in last weekend's 2-1 defeat at home to Manchester City. Yobo will slot in alongside Joleon Lescott in Jagielka's absence and Moyes insists the Nigeria defender is an excellent replacement.

"I think if you look at the games we've played Yobo has played a lot of games." said Moyes. "You certainly cannot go through the season with only two centre-backs or two centre-forwards. Joe has played a big part of the season already so I don't think him coming into the team is that big news." He added: "Jack Rodwell is a possibility [to play] there if we were required to do so and maybe Phil Neville would be another if he was required as well."

Forward James Vaughan, who has missed five months of this campaign with a knee problem himself, said the latest blow on the injury front was just something the squad had to take in their stride.

Earlier in the season they lost Aiyegbeni Yakubu (Achilles), Mikel Arteta (knee) and Victor Anichebe (knee).

"Phil's probably been our best player but we've coped all season without important players and we will have to do the same again," Vaughan told the Daily Post.

"I've been there but Jags is a professional and he will get his rehab done and be back as soon as possible."

Shearer calls for team effort

Alan Shearer has warned his Newcastle players they cannot rely on their big names alone to get the club out of trouble.

The Magpies head for Liverpool on Sunday three points adrift of Barclays Premier League safety with only four games in which to save themselves and Shearer insists every single member of the squad will have to contribute.

He said: "They all hold a vital role. The experienced ones, some of them will have been in this position, some of them won't. But I am looking to everyone, not just the experienced players. Everyone has got a huge part to play, a massive role."

He added: "But the spirits have been reasonable this week considering we haven't won a game under myself, and hopefully that will change rather soon."

If it is to change this weekend, Shearer's players will have to perform considerably better than they did in the reverse fixture at St James' on December 28.

That day, the rampant Reds, led by irresistible England midfielder Steven Gerrard, tore Newcastle to shreds as they romped to a 5-1 victory, which might have been even more embarrassing had it not been for the brilliance of keeper Shay Given.

The Irishman decided enough was enough in the immediate aftermath of the debacle, signing for Manchester City in January, and his close friend Shearer admitted it did not look good from the Match of the Day sofa.

He said: "It wasn't pleasant watching, to be honest, it was a bitterly disappointing game.

"Whether it was a turning point or not, I am not quite sure, but we certainly want to avoid anything like that again."

Brown rues spitting row

Phil Brown believes the spitting row with Arsenal may have damaged people's perception of Hull.

Brown alleged Cesc Fabregas had spat at Tigers assistant boss Brian Horton following the teams' FA Cup tie at the Emirates Stadium. The Arsenal captain was subsequently charged with improper conduct while Brown has also been charged by the FA over his criticism of the referee, Mike Riley.

Brown admits it may have altered people's impression of the club. "Possibly it did," he told The Times. "I can't go overboard about that because it's part of an inquiry and I'm under FA scrutiny, but there was a lot (that) went on after the game."
He added: "I would have dearly loved to speak to Arsène Wenger straight after the game.

"I would have put it to him manager to manager, instead of going public, but there was no access to him.

"If there was access, none of this would have come out. But I couldn't speak to him or get any sense out of anyone else.

"Let's conduct the inquiry and then we'll see what comes out.

"I think it's something we need to look at. For as long as I've been involved in football, there has been a culture where the managers have a chat beforehand and afterwards and it doesn't spill over into personal animosity.

"We talked about a Respect campaign for the players at the start of the season. I think the League Managers' Association have a duty to make sure we all get together and say that this tension just can't go on.

"I know there's long-term battles going on with some of the big boys, but it doesn't have to be that way. We should be able to talk to each other, manager to manager."

Sbragia fumes at Keane

Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia has hit back at the perceived recent slights of his predecessor Roy Keane by advising the Irishman to focus on his own job at Ipswich.

Keane has spoken about his former club's relegation plight and confidence problems since taking over from Jim Magilton at Portman Road last month, and Sbragia - who worked for the former Manchester United captain as a coach before replacing him - appears to have taken umbrage.

"It just seems that if he wants a bit of publicity, he says something - but why not talk about Ipswich? Why is he always talking about Sunderland?" said the Scot.
"Roy left this club. He's not here and we don't talk about him, but for some reason he keeps coming back. I don't know why. Maybe he still thinks he's the manager.

"Maybe he's just bored and has nothing to do, so he thinks, 'I'll have a go at Sunderland'. I think he should just really concentrate on Ipswich. He's back in football. He should enjoy it."

Sbragia also appeared to hint at an untold story behind Keane's departure from the Stadium of Light hot seat earlier this season.

Sbragia added: "He knows the reason he left Sunderland and I know exactly why he left.

"I wouldn't want to go into print and say exactly what I know about what he said and what he did.

"But I don't know why he keeps talking about Sunderland. He has left Sunderland. I could go into more detail, but I won't."

Gerrard 'pleased' he snubbed Blues

Steven Gerrard admits he considered moving to Chelsea because he felt Liverpool were a long way from being title contenders.

The England midfielder was on the verge of a move to Stamford Bridge in 2005 and has been linked with the Blues since. However, the 28-year-old remained at Anfield and has been instrumental as Liverpool have emerged as the main threat to Manchester United in the race for the Premier League title this season.

He told the Daily Telegraph: "The reason the whole Chelsea thing came up was down to frustration that we were so far away from the title race. That's why their interest maybe turned my head slightly. But I look back now and I'm really pleased I decided to stay because I'm part of a top team here that can be successful."
As a Liverpool fan, Gerrard knows success at Anfield would have far more significance for him than winning trophies with another club.

"It would mean an awful lot more to be successful at Liverpool than it would at any other club," Gerrard continued.

"Don't get me wrong, I might have won more medals somewhere else but if I was to win the league here, along with a few more cups, that would mean a lot more than winning seven or eight trophies somewhere else.

"I can share it with my family, with the Liverpool supporters because I've been one of them all my life."

Everton boss Moyes blasts FA over cup final tickets

Everton manager David Moyes has attacked the Football Association for being 'disrespectful' and 'hypocritical' in their allocation of FA Cup final tickets.

Both the Toffees and Chelsea have been given about 25,000 tickets each for the showpiece event at the 90,000-capacity venue on May 30.

Moyes said that was woefully inadequate considering the huge demand on Merseyside with Everton in their first final since 1995.
We get 25,000, Chelsea get 25,000 and I think the FA get 40,000,' he said.

'Something is not right when 40,000 tickets have gone to corporate people.

'I understand these people are the ones putting some money into it and probably helped build Wembley in the first place but it's not right for the average punter.

'It disappoints me when all through the season when the managers get questioned about not putting out their strongest team, leaving one or two players out, in FA Cup ties.

'The biggest disrespect has come from the FA in how many tickets they have given teams who get to the final.

'It is a little bit hypocritical. They want us to support the competition, speak well about it, play everyone in it and then when we get there give the teams a limited amount of tickets.

'There is nothing Everton can do but I feel really bad for the supporters. We could probably take three times the number of tickets we have got and I'd love them to be there.

'I just hope they all get in somehow.'

Fergie warning for United stars

Sir Alex Ferguson was warned Manchester United superstars like Dimitar Berbatov no player is guaranteed first-team football – no matter what their price tag may be.

Despite his club record £30.75million price tag, Ferguson still left Berbatov out of his starting line-up to face Arsenal on Wednesday.

The on-going uncertainty over Carlos Tevez's United future will not save him either on Tuesday should Ferguson decide the Argentina star is not what he needs for the Champions League semi-final second-leg at the Emirates Stadium.
It is part of a focus that has stood Ferguson in good stead throughout his managerial career, most famously when he axed goalkeeper Jim Leighton for the 1990 FA Cup final replay with Crystal Palace after a miserable performance in the first game at Wembley.

And, no matter what the circumstances, Ferguson will not change.

'Players react differently,' said the United boss.

'Some accept it, others find it hard. It depends on the nature of the personalities. But it doesn't deflect me from picking what I feel is the correct team.

'In 1990, I made the right decision. I was disappointed for the lad at the time because Jim took it badly but that is why I speak to my players before I pick my team.

'You cannot think about how much a player costs when you are picking a team.

'Once that player is signed it is not as if you can go to the tax man and ask for a rebate if he doesn't play.

'Others might not agree with my choice and the recent FA Cup semi-final was a case in point.

'But I never allow anyone to cloud my judgement. I am very clear-minded about that.'

Almunia good enough to play for England, insists Arsenal boss Wenger

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger still believes Manuel Almunia could represent England one day and declared: 'He is the best.'

The Spaniard produced a superb display in the midweek Champions League semi-final first leg against Manchester United at Old Trafford, helping keep the score down to just 1-0.

Almunia joined the Gunners from Celta Vigo in July 2004, and so under residency laws would soon be eligible to apply to become a naturalised British citizen.
Given the 31-year-old has yet to be called up into the Spain national team, there remains genuine possibility Almunia would, under FIFA regulations, be available for selection to England coach Fabio Capello in time for the build-up to the 2010 World Cup.

However, the issue continues to draw controversy, with both former England keepers Peter Shilton and Ray Clemence voicing their concerns. Nevertheless, there are plenty of precedents.

Arsenal's Brazil-born striker Eduardo is a regular for Croatia having moved there when he was a teenager.

Manchester United and England midfielder Owen Hargreaves was born in Canada.

And Marcel Desailly, born in Ghana, and Zinedine Zidane, of Algerian descent, both helped France win the World Cup in 1998.

In other sports, England cricket captain Kevin Pietersen was born in South Africa and rugby player Riki Flutey is from New Zealand, but is now a British resident.

'There are international rules which have to be respected, but if it is possible legally, why not?' said Wenger.

'Then it is more a choice left to the English Football Association or to Manuel Almunia's desire.

'I believe he is not only good enough, but he is the best.'

The Gunners boss added: 'It is down to what you expect morally and mentally from a national team.

'I believe at some stage you have to observe just the rules and decide what you want.

'On the English side, for the national team, it is not so much a problem because if the guy decides to become English, he has had to observe and respect the rules like anybody else.

'Why should he then not be qualified to play for the national team?

'It is more a moral problem maybe for Manuel Almunia, because does he consider he has a chance to play in the Spanish national team or not?'

Arsenal head to Portsmouth tomorrow looking to extend a 20-game unbeaten run in the Barclays Premier League.

However, Eduardo is out for around three weeks with a groin problem, and defender Mickael Silvestre is struggling to face his former club again because of a similar problem.

Gael Clichy (back) will miss the Champions League second-leg against United on Tuesday, but leading scorer Robin van Persie (groin) could return next week.

Russian playmaker Andrey Arshavin is available tomorrow having been cup-tied for the Champions League clash.

Agger close to new Liverpool deal

Daniel Agger is believed to be close to signing a new long-term contract with Liverpool.

The Danish central defender has been involved in a lengthy saga over his future, and it was feared he was waiting to buy himself out of the final year of his contract.

He has been linked with AC Milan, Juventus and Barcelona in recent months with talks seemingly at a stalemate with Liverpool.

It had been thought that Agger wanted a wage rise from £50,000 a week to £70,000 a week.

However, his agent Per Steffensen has recently visited Liverpool for discussions with manager Rafael Benitez and it is thought that a deal is now on the table that suits both player and club.

Benitez said: 'These conversations have gone really well and we are very close. Maybe we will soon have a solution.'

Liverpool recently agreed new deals with Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt while verbal agreements have been made with youngsters Nathan Ecclestone, Peter Gulacsi, Krisztian Nemeth and Nabil El Zhar.

Ferdinand should be fit to face Arsenal

Rio Ferdinand could be fit for Manchester United's second-leg Champions League showdown with Arsenal after scans revealed he had not cracked a rib.

The England defender was forced off and had to be taken to hospital during the first leg of the sides' semi-final meeting at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

He will miss United's Premier League game with Middlesbrough tomorrow but manager Sir Alex Ferguson is confident he could be fit to face the Gunners.
'It's good news with Rio. It is not a cracked bone, he had a bit of bruising on the lung which was why he was coughing up blood but there has been nothing since then,' Ferguson said.

'Hopefully we can get him ready for Tuesday, he seems almost back to normal. But he won't play tomorrow.

'Of course when you see it at the time you fear the worst but now it is just a case of getting him back training, hopefully on Sunday, and getting him ready for Tuesday.'

O'Leary in injury scare

Tomas O'Leary looks certain to miss the British and Irish Lions Tour to South Africa after suffering a serious ankle injury in Munster's 29-10 Magners League win over the Scarlets.

O'Leary's injury marred Munster's 10th straight win in all competitions at Musgrave Park, with early indications that the Ireland scrum-half has a suspected fractured ankle.

He was immediately ruled out of next weekend's Heineken Cup semi-final showdown with Leinster and will almost certainly miss the trip to South Africa.
Tries from Ian Dowling, David Wallace, Keith Earls and Denis Leamy helped Munster move onto 58 points, meaning the title will be theirs if Ospreys fail to gain a point against Edinburgh on Saturday.

The reigning European champions had seven of their eight Lions in action, with tour captain Paul O'Connell the only absentee as he rested a sore hip.

Tevez loan arrangement concerns Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted Manchester United are in a position of weakness because of Carlos Tevez's complicated loan arrangement.

The South American's United days appear to be drawing to an end because of a perceived lack of opportunities. Ferguson has not given up hope of keeping him, but his bargaining position is not helped by the knowledge Tevez can walk away at the end of the season to take up any of the lucrative offers bound to come his way.

"We are vulnerable because of the loan situation, there is no question about that," said Ferguson.
"It is the weakness and when he is questioned by journalists it is loaded towards that," he added. "It can lead him into saying things he doesn't really believe or mean."

Tevez arrived under a loan arrangement with adviser Kia Joorabchian which was sanctioned by the Premier League.

An agreed price - believed to be around £30million - needs to be paid at the end of the season for United to seal Tevez's registration. But, while Ferguson still hopes it will happen, Tevez is seemingly resigned to leaving because he has not played in enough key matches.

"I don't want him to be unhappy that's for sure because he is an important player for us," said the Scot. "The difficulty is when you have the options I have got, it creates problems.

"All the good players want to play in every game but you can't do that in this league, it is impossible.

"I think he genuinely wants to stay and that is something we are trying to work towards. I have told him that repeatedly.

"Maybe at the end of the season if he has won something or achieved something, he will look at the overall picture and realise he has made a contribution. I think he will stay. I hope he does."

Shearer hoping for some Oz wizardry

Alan Shearer is hoping Mark Viduka's return to fitness will help to re-ignite his goal-shy team.

The Magpies head into Monday night's must-win clash with Portsmouth at St James' Park having scored just four times in their past eight Barclays Premier League games, a sequence of fixtures which has yielded only three points from a possible 24.

Asked what the returning 33-year-old Australia international might add to the team, Shearer said: "Hold-up play. When the ball goes into him, more often than not, it will stick."
He added: "That will give our players a chance to get up and support and make runs off him, knowing the ball will stick with him."

Newcastle have not scored more than once in a single game since their last win, a 3-2 victory at West Brom on February 7, and Shearer knows that with clean sheets at a premium - they have collected just one in their past 16 league outings - that situation will have to change if they are to rescue their season.

Viduka has managed only seven appearances all season because of a troublesome Achilles injury, and is yet to find the back of the net. But he showed enough during his 29-minute cameo as a substitute in the 1-0 defeat at Tottenham last Sunday to suggest he could have a major role to play during the remaining five fixtures of the campaign.

It was no coincidence that the Magpies belatedly started to fire at White Hart Lane after Viduka and Obafemi Martins had been introduced from the bench.

The pair, along with skipper Michael Owen, teamed up to fire the club to safety under Kevin Keegan at the end of last season, and Shearer has not yet ruled out the possibility of fielding all three in the same team.

He said: "We want all our big guns fit and certainly, Viduka is, Martins is, Michael Owen is. We want them all fit to give us options."

On Monday's opponents, Shearer said: "Without doubt, they will be a tough nut to crack. Paul Hart has gone in there and done a really good job. They will certainly be a threat from set-pieces, but I believe if we look at ourselves and do it right ourselves, then we will have a big chance."

Arsenal back up Fabregas

Arsenal remain confident Cesc Fabregas has no case to answer after their captain was charged with two counts of improper conduct following allegations he spat at Hull assistant boss Brian Horton after the FA Cup tie at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners were asked by the Football Association to provide their observations after receiving submissions from Hull.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger feels the case should be dropped, but said: "I always said we are always very open to co-operate with any investigation. I personally looked at the reports, at the video evidence and there is nothing in there against Cesc."
In accordance with the governing body's disciplinary procedures, Fabregas has been given until May 12 to respond to the charges, with the matter then likely to be decided by an independent commission who will consider all of the evidence before deciding what, if any, punishment is necessary.

Hull manager Phil Brown brought the alleged incident to light immediately after his side's defeat on March 17, but has also been charged by the FA following his outburst at referee Mike Riley.

Wenger continued: "I do not know if we will appeal - I will see what we can do about that. At the start, I am not a great fan of appealing because I said we are very open to co-operate and now I don't think we should stop that.

"I am very positive that there was enough evidence in what I have seen that the case should have been dropped."

Chairman Peter Hill-Wood concurred, telling the Daily Sport: "We have a video of the tunnel which we gave to the FA.

"I didn't see it myself, but Arsene has and so has (chief executive) Ivan Gazidis and they both said that the whole thing was innocuous. I think the whole thing is ridiculous."

Given the Gunners potential involvement in the Champions League final, the hearing could well not be scheduled until the end of the season. However, any ban could also be carried over into the next campaign.

Hiddink: Blues trophy hunt is not over

Guus Hiddink is ready to concentrate on a cup double after conceding Chelsea are realistically out of the race for the Barclays Premier League title.

Hiddink insisted that it was now time to focus on the Champions League and the FA Cup after their goalless stalemate against Everton at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.

"It is difficult but we now have to focus on only two other roads - the Champions League and, later on in May, Everton again in the FA Cup final," admitted Hiddink.
Chelsea face Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final, first leg at the Nou Camp next Tuesday and Hiddink is considering giving some of his players a rest against West Ham on Saturday.

He is already without centre-half Ricardo Carvalho for the trip to Spain, the Portuguese having suffered a recurrence of his hamstring problem.

But in a dress rehearsal for the FA Cup final at the end of May, Chelsea and Everton served up an entertaining draw that was dominated by goalkeepers.

Chelsea's Petr Cech and Everton's Tim Howard produced fine solo performances to preserve the deadlock which, coupled with Manchester United's 2-0 victory over Portsmouth, put an end to any remaining title ambitions for Hiddink's side.

The Blues are six points adrift of leaders United who have a game in hand and Hiddink added: "Everyone is disappointed. We knew it was difficult to go for the title so when you drop two points there is disappointment of course.

"But this team is able to cope with that and focus ourselves on the difficult game against Barcelona next week."

Allardyce rejects 'bizarre' Keane claim

Sam Allardyce has delivered a withering put-down to Roy Keane after the Irishman's "bizarre" outburst at his former Manchester United team-mates who have become managers.

Keane, the new Ipswich manager, questioned whether Steve Bruce and Mark Hughes should be regarded as "good managers" or successful because they have yet to win a trophy - but Allardyce said Keane himself had a long way to go to be seen alongside either of his former United team-mates.

Allardyce, whose Blackburn team come up against Bruce's Wigan side on Sunday, told PA Sport: "I find that statement to be quite bizarre to be perfectly honest."

He added: "What Sparky and Brucey have done with the resources they have had shows they are both top managers and very, very capable managers.

"I think that Roy's a long distance away from a Steve Bruce and a Mark Hughes by his lack of experience in the job. So I find that quite a bizarre statement and I wouldn't agree with that at all."

Hughes meanwhile has reminded Keane he is not the only one with a fierce hunger to succeed as a manager.

And he feels Thursday's observations were just an example of his former team mate shooting from the hip without necessarily giving a great deal of thought to the substance of his words.

"Roy is just making a statement," smiled Hughes. "The media are very glad he is back on the scene because he is good value.

"I don't think many managers who get appointed to a mid-table Championship team could make the impact Roy has.

"It is a compliment to him and the personality he has. He has taken on a big task there, just as I have here. It is about driving our clubs forward."

Gerrard to miss Hull trip

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been ruled out of making a return from injury at Hull in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday.

The England midfielder is still struggling with a groin problem which has forced him to sit out the last three matches.

Manager Rafael Benitez is hopeful, however, Gerrard will be fit for next weekend's visit of Newcastle.

Ferguson fine with Benitez jibes

Sir Alex Ferguson is happy for Rafael Benitez to keep aiming his verbal volleys at Manchester United because he trusts his players to avoid them.

Benitez has launched a series of scathing attacks on Ferguson since the turn of the year, the latest being a claim in Spain that the United manager is fearful of Liverpool because he knows they are a better side than his own.

"He is definitely saying a lot," said Ferguson of Benitez's jibes. "But I am happy for him to carry on with it."
The latest comment seemed strange in a week when United opened a three point lead at the Premier League summit, although it did maintain a feud Ferguson continued last week when he claimed Benitez had behaved with contempt towards Sam Allardyce for his reaction at a goal against Blackburn at Anfield recently.

But Ferguson has no wish to silence Benitez, preferring to let his team do the talking.

"I have to trust my players. I know they are good enough," he said.

"I have trusted them for years now. That is why I have picked them.

"They are a good bunch of lads and we will just carry on the way we always have."

Meanwhile, Gary Neville has been ruled out for a fortnight after injuring his foot against Portsmouth at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

It means the Red Devils' skipper will miss both legs of the Champions League semi-final against Arsenal and also key Barclays Premier League games against Tottenham on Saturday and Middlesbrough on May 2.

Fabregas charged over Hull spat

Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association following allegations he spat at Hull assistant boss Brian Horton after the FA Cup tie at the Emirates Stadium on March 17.

The Gunners were asked by the Football Association to provide their observations, and according to manager Arsene Wenger, they have now decided to take the matter further.

"Fabregas has been charged for improper conduct on the night," the Arsenal manager said, speaking at Friday's press conference ahead of the Barclays Premier League game against Middlesbrough on Sunday.

"I always said we are always very open to co-operate with any investigation," he added.

"I personally looked at the reports, at the video evidence and there is nothing in there against Cesc."

Fabregas, who was not playing against Hull because of a knee injury, issued a statement on the evening of the incident to deny he spat at Horton in the tunnel.

Should the charges be proven, Fabregas - who missed more than three months of the campaign with a knee problem which required surgery - could face a suspension.

However, that would only be for domestic matches and as such would not cover the forthcoming Champions League semi-final against Manchester United.

Wenger continued: "I dont know if we will appeal - I will see what we can do about that. At the start, I am not a great fan of appealing because I said we are very open to co-operate and now I dont think we should stop that.

"I am very positive that there was enough evidence in what I have seen that the case should have been dropped."

Knee surgery for Flintoff

Andrew Flintoff has been ruled out of the forthcoming Test series against West Indies after contracting a knee injury playing in the Indian Premier League.

The influential England all-rounder will fly home from South Africa, where the IPL is being played, and undergo an operation on his right knee next week which their medical team believe will sideline him for the next three to five weeks.

That will sideline 31-year-old Flintoff for both Tests and the three-match one-day series against West Indies, but he should recover in time for the ICC World Twenty20 tournament starting on June 5.
Flintoff complained of a soreness in his right knee playing for Chennai Super Kings, who made contact with England immediately after he underwent scans at a Durban hospital.

They confirmed Flintoff had suffered a slight torn meniscus in his right knee and after they were inspected by Dr Nick Peirce, the England and Wales Cricket Board's chief medical officer, he was booked in for an operation early next week.

"Clearly this is a huge disappointment for both the player and the IPL team," admitted Peirce. "This sort of degenerative injury though is one that could have happened at anytime, anywhere.

"The procedures we put in place meant that the ECB medical staff were alerted about the problem immediately and we thank Chennai for their co operation."

Keane is back - and already slamming former United stars turned managers

New Ipswich boss Roy Keane walked into Portman Road insisting all that had gone before was history - and neither he nor any of his former Manchester United team-mates had yet achieved anything in management.

The former Republic of Ireland midfielder, 37, has signed a two-year contract with the Coca-Cola Championship side, who earlier this week sacked Jim Magilton.

Keane has been out of work since departing as Sunderland manager last December but insisted the challenge and timing was right for his return to the game.

However, when quizzed on what it was that made him and the likes of Bryan Robson, who had stints at Middlesbrough, West Brom and Sheffield United; Mark Hughes, the Manchester City manager; Steve Bruce - in charge at Wigan; and Paul Ince, sacked after a spell with Blackburn earlier this season, all successful in the dugout, Keane wasted no time in putting the record straight.

'Who are the good managers you are talking about?' asked the Irishman.

'Sparky [Hughes] and Brucey have not won a trophy have they?

'They have potential.

'Steve Bruce has had a good season but Steve Bruce has been manager how many years?

'Sparky has done a brilliant job at Blackburn but is facing different challenges at Man City.

'We are all facing different challenges.

'Until an ex-team-mate of mine from 1994 goes on and really achieves something, then I would not agree with what you are saying about being a successful manager.

'You need a bit more than some of those managers have achieved yet.'

Keane added: 'With me, it is a desire to win, a fear of losing, wanting to achieve something in my life.

'I had five months out of the game and, while I really enjoyed it, I had this gut feeling that it was time to try something.

'I believe I can potentially be a good football manager.

'I have done nothing in the game yet; I did okay at Sunderland, but I want to do better than okay.'

Keane took Sunderland into the Premier League in what was his first season as a manager in 2006-07, and intends to do the same with the Tractor Boys

However, he warned: 'There are lots of clubs in the Championship who feel they belong in the Premier League - Nottingham Forest, Leeds, Sheffield United; look at Charlton now.

'Ipswich are a club with a good heritage who did well in the 70s and 80s.

'As much as it is a massive part of the club, it is about now and what I achieve.

'I am looking forward to it.'

Arsenal not a real threat, says Anelka

Nicolas Anelka has claimed Chelsea are as big as Real Madrid - and slammed former club Arsenal for coming up short in the title race again.

The Chelsea striker, who joined the Blues from Bolton in January 2008, has scored 15 goals this season and has the FA Cup final and the Champions League semi-finals to look forward to.

The Gunners, however, are likely to finish fourth in the Premier League while Chelsea have, until Tuesday's draw with Everton, challenged Manchester United and Liverpool for the title.
And, having beaten Arsenal 2-1 in Saturday's FA Cup semi-final, Anelka said: 'Chelsea are a mega club composed of top players, within which you have to win every game because you are put under massive pressure.

'You have to win week in, week out.

'It's different at Arsenal. They are composed of young players, playing for third or fourth place, but we do not really speak about them for the title. Chelsea are like Real Madrid. The pressure is huge.'

Blues team-mate Michael Ballack, meanwhile, has admitted shock at Frank Lampard's absence from the shortlist for the PFA player of the year award.

The midfielder (pictured) has scored 19 times for Chelsea this term and Ballack said: 'Frank has played consistently at a high level all season.

'I don't know why he was not nominated but at Chelsea we know how good he is and that is all that matters.'

Saints to appeal against points deduction

Southampton will appeal against the ten-point penalty which has condemned them to Championship relegation.

The Football League imposed the penalty yesterday having investigated Saints' finances since their holding company, Southampton Leisure Holdings plc, went into administration.

Southampton argued because the club itself is not in administration they should avoid the mandatory points penalty but the League decided the deduction stands.

If the south-coast club finish outside the bottom three they will still be relegated as the points will be taken from this season's total, while if they finish in the drop zone they will start next season in League One on minus-ten points.
Saints, currently second-bottom and four points from safety, therefore face the bizarre prospect of playing their final two games for the right to start the League One season on zero points rather than to avoid the drop.

In a statement, the club said: 'We are of the opinion an incorrect conclusion has been reached.' League chairman Lord Mawhinney said: 'The job of the Football League Board is to protect the integrity of the competition and that is what we have done.'

Liverpool could make move for Tevez

Liverpool will make a sensational attempt to sign Manchester United forward Carlos Tevez this summer, according to reports.

The Argentina striker admitted this week he is resigned to leaving Old Trafford at the end of the season after failing to command a regular starting place.

United have to pay around £22million to keep Tevez at the club after a complicated two-year loan agreement expires.
But today's Times reports Rafa Benitez is keen to battle Chelsea, Inter Milan and Manchester City for his signature.

Sir Alex Ferguson would be loathe to see Tevez sign for a rival after blocking Gabriel Heinze's switch to Liverpool two years ago.

But United will have no say over where Tevez goes as he does not belong to the club.

Arsenal's Euro hopes hit by Van Persie blow

Arsenal could see their defence boosted by the return of goalkeeper Manuel Almunia and Johan Djourou this weekend - but the Gunners will head into the Champions League semi-final clash against Manchester United without leading scorer Robin van Persie.

The Dutchman, who has hit 17 goals this season, continues to be troubled by a groin problem which saw him miss the midweek 4-4 draw at Liverpool and will not feature in Sunday's Barclays Premier League game with Middlesbrough at Emirates Stadium nor the first leg of the European tie against the holders.

Manager Arsene Wenger, though, hopes van Persie will be fit by the time United come to London on May 5.

There was more positive news on Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who could face Boro following a minor hamstring concern, while Almunia (ankle) and Djourou (knee) could both be back to bolster what Wenger accepts has been a 'fatigued' defence.

'We will rotate a little bit again, but we have no major injuries from Liverpool,' said Wenger.

'Manuel Almunia was in full training on Thursday and we will see how he responds. Djourou was in full training also so we will see how he is too. Both could come back into the squad.

'It is not enough training to say [for sure] yet, we need 48 hours more.

'Emmanuel Adebayor should come back into training on Saturday. He could be in the squad.

'But Robin van Persie is definitely out for Sunday and for Manchester United.

'Gael Clichy could be back for the second Manchester United game.

'He has a scan [on his back] on Monday. We will go from there. He has a chance to be back in full training next week.'

O'Neill relaxed about Barry future

Martin O'Neill is content for Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry to wait until the end of the season to decide upon his future.

Barry has just over one year left of his current deal and there is growing speculation that he will look to leave Villa should they fail to qualify for the Champions League.

O'Neill said: "The speculation regarding Gareth is inevitable. It will happen, it's not a problem. I have discussed it numerous times with the player. He is very happy to wait until the end of the season to see how things develop. That's The Villa boss is not expecting a repeat of the long drawn-out saga of last summer when Barry looked set to move to Liverpool before the deal collapsed.

He added: "But this is not like last year. This is a situation which I realised would come around and that's the way it is. It's not an issue.

"I'm not bothered (by last summer). From the experience of last year I don't think that will materialise. I really have not got an issue with any of this."

O'Neill has been delighted with the way Barry has responded after failing to land his move to Anfield after the Reds failed to meet Villa's £18million asking price.

He said: "Gareth has played very, very well indeed. He gets a freedom to play that might not be afforded in other places.

"But at the end of it all I'm delighted with him and Stiliyan Petrov in the heart of the midfield, I've been delighted with the other boys as well.

"We can play different systems which we have proved during the course of the season. It's great to have learnt these things because next season they will probably have to come into play."

Brown boost for Red Devils

Wes Brown is set to return just in time to ease a potential injury crisis for Manchester United.

Skipper Gary Neville and defensive colleague John O'Shea could be out for weeks, according to manager Sir Alex Ferguson after being forced out of Wednesday night's 2-0 win over Portsmouth at Old Trafford.

"Wes is fine. He is training hard and should be OK for the weekend," United assistant manager Mike Phelan told BBC Radio Manches
The loss of Neville and O'Shea would leave only Rafael as cover at right-back and while the Brazilian has had an outstanding season for United, Ferguson might be reluctant to rely solely on a teenager during the crucial latter stages of the campaign.

However, after a season wrecked by injury, Brown came through a reserve-team return at Preston on Monday and Ferguson is ready to draft the England star into his squad for Saturday's encounter with Tottenham.

Brown has been missing with a foot injury since October. Although he did briefly return to action with a couple of substitute appearances at the end of January, the Longsight-born defender then dropped back out of the side.

However, while his performance at Anfield much earlier this season did attract criticism, Ferguson will not have forgotten Brown was the mainstay of a defence that won both the Premier League and Champions League trophies last term.

Meanwhile Neville and O'Shea will both be assessed on Thursday to discover the extent of their respective problems.

Neville, who has bounced back after a series of injuries over the past two years, lasted just 10 minutes before limping off with a foot injury, raising fears he had suffered a repeat of the broken metatarsal that saw him miss the 2002 World Cup.

O'Shea hurt his ankle following a late tackle by Nadir Belhadj. ter.

Keane sets promotion target

Roy Keane revealed his aim to take Ipswich back into the Barclays Premier League in one season as he declared: "It's good to be back."

The former Manchester United captain, who has been out of work since leaving Sunderland in December, was confirmed as the new manager of the Tractor Boys after signing a two-year deal.

Keane, who revealed he had received other offers, said: "It's a massive challenge trying to get the club back in the PHe added: "I'm excited and looking forward to it. I've had a good break. It's good to be back.

"Three or four weeks ago I thought, if the opportunity came up, I was ready for it. I've signed a two-year contract but I'd like to try and do it (get promotion) in one year.

"If I wasn't up for challenges I'd be out walking my dogs. I think my dogs need a break."

Keane insisted he would need time to take stock before beginning the process of shaping the team.

"Nothing will be happening over the next week or two, we've got to take stock and take it from there," he said.

He hinted at the possibility of major changes by adding: "There are a lot of players on long-term injuries and players whose contracts are up, so that might suit me.

"But it would be unfair to say to players whose contracts are up 'You've got two games to prove yourself'." remier League."

Lampard: This is my best season yet

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard claims he is having the best season of his career.

The 30-year-old has scored 12 Premier League goals during a campaign in which the Blues started inconsistently under Luiz Felipe Scolari but have returned to form since the arrival of Guus Hiddink in February.

Chelsea are still in with a shout for three trophies as they are in the FA Cup final, the last four of the Champions League and are four points off leaders Manchester United in the Barclays Premier League.

I think personally it has been my best season,' said Lampard.

'Over the course of the season different things have cropped up, and as a group we've had some ups and downs, but I'm very pleased with the way I've been playing.

'Hopefully my thirties can be my best years. I'm more experienced, more aware of how to play the game and how to manage myself in between games.

'People used to joke about me hitting shots from all over the pitch, and when you're younger you do try a lot of things.

'Now I'm looking for the right moment to slip people in and the right moment to score.

'If you can make two assists like I did on Saturday you don't get the glory of scoring the goal, but you get the glory of winning the game.'

It has been almost two years since Chelsea won a major trophy and Lampard is delighted they have a good chance of ending the drought this season.

'When you have a couple of years of winning leagues and cups and then a couple of barren years you're upset about not winning anything,' he said.

'We're close to winning again and we are playing as well as we did during those times. I hate to compare the Mourinho era, but there's certainly an element of that strength and belief in the team we had then.

'We lost that at the start of the season. We lost points and games through giving away late goals, but now there's a much stronger feeling.'

Bent could quit Spurs to boost World Cup hopes

Tottenham striker Darren Bent admits his future at White Hart Lane is likely to be decided in the next month and will depend on the role he plays in the club's late push for European football.

Bent is Spurs' top scorer this season with 16 goals but the return of Jermain Defoe and Robbie Keane has intensified competition for starting places.

Defoe has now recovered from his foot injury and it means Bent could be back on the bench after starting the last six Premier League games.
With five matches to go and Spurs chasing a seventh-placed finish, Bent agreed who starts in those matches could point towards where his future lies.

'No one likes to sit on the bench,' said the 25-year-old, who scored the winner in the victory against Newcastle at the weekend.

'I'll have to see what happens and take it from there,' he said. 'My season has been up and down. The end of the season is coming and we'll have to see what happens after that.'

Bent feels there is an England World Cup place up for grabs next year if he is playing regular football.

However, he admitted: 'If you don't play for your club regularly you won't play for England. As long as I keep working hard and scoring, hopefully I'll be in there.'

England boss Fabio Capello was at White Hart Lane to see Bent in action at the weekend and the striker added: 'Wayne Rooney is obviously the No.1 [striker] and there is always a fight for the other spot.

'As long as I can keep scoring goals and playing well when he's [Capello] watching me, it's all I can ask for.'

Manchester United to raise price of season ticket

Manchester United have confirmed they will increase season ticket prices by £1 a game next term.

While many clubs have reduced prices to attract more cash-strapped fans at a time of a global economic crisis, United once again feel confident about bucking the trend because they are still turning away an average of almost 5,500 fans per game.

Fans' groups are not too impressed with the rises, which take the cost of a ticket to a top-price £49. The cheapest ticket at Old Trafford will be £27.
However, United feel the continued clamour to watch Sir Alex Ferguson's men - average Premier League attendances this season are 75,299 - is justified.

'We are still turning away over 5,000 people per game on average and we believe it represents good value for money,' said a United spokesman.

Earlier this month, the Glazer family revealed debts of £650million.

Since then the OFT have refused to ask United to scrap their automatic cup scheme, meaning fans who do decide to purchase a season ticket - which will be reduced in number - are again committed to purchasing tickets for all cup games, apart from the Carling Cup.

In addition, the decision of the Treasury to refuse to acknowledge tickets purchased last year should be reduced because of the mid-season cut in VAT has effectively meant supporters have felt no benefit, other than with their cup purchases.

United claim they are 'highly unlikely' to add the additional 59 pence to a £27 ticket when VAT returns to its previous 17.5% level on December 31, although supporters' groups remain unimpressed.

'It has been said in the past that the owners of the club will squeeze United supporters until the pips squeak and this is clearly the case,' said Sean Bones, vice-chairman of the Manchester United Supporters Trust.

'Earlier in the year, the government gave a 2.5% reduction on the price of VAT on tickets.

'The Glazers have absorbed this benefit and added more increases on top.'

Arshavin: Arsenal fans have still to see best of me

Andrey Arshavin maintains there is plenty more to come from him after the Russian's four goals put a massive dent in Liverpool's title bid at Anfield last night.

The 27-year-old produced a brilliant individual display as Arsenal almost snatched victory over the Reds, but were once again undone by poor defending as Yossi Benayoun grabbed an equaliser deep into stoppage time as an amazing match ended 4-4.

Arshavin cannot play in the Champions League semi-final against Manchester United as he turned out for Zenit St Petersburg earlier in this season's competition.
However, the deadline-day signing - left on the bench for most of the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Chelsea at Wembley on Saturday - insists his display last night is only the start of things to come.

'I do not think I have adapted yet because in the first half I was quiet, except for the one moment when I scored,' the Russian said.

'It is difficult, but I will try - I need time.

'I am a new player, I have to go through [my own] pre-season and then everything will be better.'

Arshavin added: 'I had only scored a hat-trick twice in my career.

'I feel good, but also disappointed because we did not get the victory.

'Both teams wanted to win. What can I say? It was unbelievable football, but that is England for you.'

Arsenal - now unbeaten in the Premier League for 19 matches - host Middlesbrough on Sunday before heading to Old Trafford for the first leg of their European tie on April 29.

Manager Arsene Wenger accepts his makeshift defence - which could have first-choice goalkeeper Manuel Almunia back from an ankle injury - must cut out costly basic errors.

He said: 'The big regret we have is that 10 minutes into the second half we were 2-1 down, but not from something created by Liverpool - it was from balls we did not clear properly from the back.

'Now we want to continue our unbeaten run in the Premier League and also qualify in the Champions League.'

Shearer pins Newcastle hopes on Barton

Newcastle manager Alan Shearer is hoping forgotten man Joey Barton can revitalise his midfield.

The former Manchester City star (pictured) is expected to return to full training this week after recovering from a fractured metatarsal, putting him in contention for the must-win Premier League clash with Portsmouth on Monday evening.

Newcastle have just five games in which to avoid relegation from the Premier League and Shearer said: 'If everything goes well over the next few days, we might have him [Barton] in full training on Thursday or Friday.

He can run on and get past the forwards, which, with all due respect, Nicky Butt, who is 34, can't do. 'If Joey is there to do that, it would free up other players.'

Liverpool legend Dalglish ready to return to Anfield

Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish has admitted he would love a return to the club he served so well as a player and a manager.

Speculation at the weekend suggested the 58-year-old Scot was to be brought in to oversee youth development at the club.

And although Dalglish, who had a 14-year spell at Anfield before quitting as manager in 1991, said he had little knowledge of any possible approach, he stressed he would be happy to help out. 'I was as far removed from the weekend's speculation about me returning to a role at Liverpool Football Club as it was possible to be but that's not to say the Sunday paper stories and TV debate escaped me,' he told LFC Magazine.

'All I can say at the moment is what I've said many times; if I can help Liverpool Football Club in any way, shape or form then I'm in. That's not a new revelation.

'If I can be of help to the club I love in any capacity then I'm more than happy to play any part that I can.

'If the manager (Rafael Benitez) or the people running the club think there's a role for me then I'll fill it happily.

'Similarly, if the club think the best thing for the club is for me to stay out of the way then I'm not going to take offence at that either.

'At the moment there's not much more that I can say other than that if and when there's anything to say to the supporters - the people who keep this club alive - then they will be the first to know.'

Ipswich sack boss Magilton

Ipswich have confirmed they have sacked manager Jim Magilton after the club's failure to make the Coca-Cola Championship play-offs.

Magilton was appointed in June 2006 and after being handed £12million to spend on players by new owner Marcus Evans was expected to challenge for promotion this season.

However, despite beating deadly rivals Norwich 3-2 on Sunday, Ipswich are marooned in midtable, some 12 points adrift of the top six. Magilton had been under fire from Ipswich fans for the majority of the season after a lack of progress on the field despite spending heavily on new players like David Norris, Jon Stead and Veliche Shumulikoski.

In a statement Evans said: 'Today is a sad day for me.

'I have enjoyed working with Jim over the past 15 months and no one has worked harder to bring success to Ipswich Town in that time.

'Jim has a passion for the club but unfortunately we have not made the progress both he and I expected this season.

'I would like to put on record my thanks for his commitment to this Football Club and wish him every success for the future.'

Assistant manager John Gorman, who arrived to help Magilton at the end of January, has also left Portman Road.

No announcement has yet been made over who will take charge of the final two games of the season while Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock has already been linked with the post.

Ferguson treasures Scholes the unsaleable

Paul Scholes will make his 600th appearance for Manchester United against Portsmouth tonight - with boss Sir Alex Ferguson claiming he has never once had an approach by a rival club for the midfielder.

Scholes is a famously private man and very rarely speaks to the press but at Old Trafford he will join a select band of United legends to reach the 600 milestone.

Only Bill Foulkes, Sir Bobby Charlton and current team-mate Ryan Giggs have played more often for the Red Devils than the former England midfielder, who made his debut as a 19-year-old against Port Vale in 1994.
And Ferguson says not once has another manager enquired about Scholes' availability.

'Funnily enough we have never had one enquiry for Paul,' said the United boss. 'You know why? Because they all know he will never leave.

'Maybe he has had private situations where people have begged him to join them because that is how it happens with agents phoning up and all that nonsense.

'But they all know he wouldn't leave here.' Scholes will aim to help his side recover from their FA Cup semi-final defeat on penalties by Everton on Sunday as they attempt to strengthen their bid for the Premier league title.

And Ferguson rates the 34-year-old, who retired from international duty in 2004, among the best players the club has ever seen.

'At United, you can go back to the Best, Law and Charlton era,' added Ferguson. 'Before that you have Duncan Edwards. You are talking a wide panorama of players.

'But in my time he would be in the top six or seven without a doubt. His contribution and quality have been great, even without the fantastic goals he has scored.'

Scholes will earn a starting place against Pompey, along with Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney, who missed the Wembley clash.

Ryan Giggs, who holds the United appearance record with 798, Dimitar Berbatov and Patrice Evra are all expected to return with only Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic remaining from the semi-final team.