Fernando Torres scored twice to help Liverpool overcome battling West Ham.
Zavon Hines hit the post before Torres poked in the opener, but Alessandro Diamanti scored a debatable penalty that he appeared to touch twice.
Dirk Kuyt stabbed in Steven Gerrard's header and West Ham fought back with Carlton Cole nodding in Mark Noble's corner just before the interval.
With the Hammers tiring in the second half, Ryan Babel burst forward to chip in for Torres to head the winner.
Liverpool are improving - Benitez
The Hammers, looking for their first win since the opening day of the season, started off brightly and came within a whisker of taking the lead within only two minutes.
The Jamaican-born Hines, making his second Premier League start, stole possession from the napping Carragher on the edge of the box but could only curl his shot against the upright.
It was a wake-up call for the visitors and Yossi Benayoun, facing his former club, dinked his way into the box but shot only tamely into the grateful arms of goalkeeper Robert Green.
The Reds though, adopting a 4-2-3-1 formation with Torres as the solo striker, poured forward and grabbed the opener on 20 minutes thanks to a dash of Spanish magic.
The packed West Ham midfield, always pretty but often careless, handed the ball to Emiliano Insua and his through-ball found Torres on the left who weaved around James Tomkins before blasting over the on-rushing Green.
Manager Gianfranco Zola, recently celebrating his one-year anniversary at Upton Park, looked bemused on the sidelines, and his cause was not helped after 25 minutes, seeing Matthew Upson and a tearful Valon Behrami limping off.
Within three minutes of the enforced substitutes they were amazingly level after a sloppy challenge by Carragher on the dangerman Hines down the left-hand side of the box.
Up stepped Italian Diamanti for the spot-kick and although the ball flew over Pepe Reina, the Liverpool bench were incensed, claiming the striker had kicked the ball twice after slipping.
Back came Liverpool and they grabbed the lead again with Kuyt's boot getting on the end of a towering Gerrard header from an inswinging Benayoun corner.
For all of Liverpool's possession, West Ham's frontline was always threatening and stunned the visitors on the stroke of half-time when Cole outjumped three defenders to nod in the equaliser.
The second period was a case of West Ham hanging on with a handful of players suffering from cramp and their substitute options severely limited.
Players gave everything - Zola
Benayoun twice went on dazzling runs and only last-ditch sliding tackles denied the Israeli midfielder fromscoring wonderful goals.
Even the legs of the battling Diamanti proved too weary for the final onslaught as he was taken off to a standing ovation, replaced by former England star Kieron Dyer.
It was a flood of players in white desperate to break down the resolute Hammers defence, and with 15 minutes remaining they bagged the all-important strike.
Johnson, another player up against his former employers, stormed down the right wing and with Babel picking up possession, the Dutchman delicately chipped over to Torres who headed down brilliantly to regain the lead.
Still the hosts were not finished as they managed one last throw of the dice with Radoslav Kovac denied at the end by Reina's outstretched hand.
Burnley 3 - 1 Sunderland
On-loan striker David Nugent climbed off the bench to score a second-half double that extends Burnley's winning run at Turf Moor to nine games.
The hosts had been ahead through Graham Alexander's spot-kick after Anton Ferdinand's foul on Wade Elliott.
Steve Bruce's men pulled level through a cool Darren Bent finish, but Nugent met Elliott's cross with a powerful header to restore the lead.
The 24-year-old then curled home from just inside the box to wrap up the win.
Seven successive clean sheets had been the backbone of Burnley's home form but the pace of Bent and Fraizer Campbell, preferred to Kenwyne Jones, soon hinted at the frailties that have seen them concede nine in the last three games away from Turf Moor.
Steven Fletcher's solid but stray long-range strike had been the hosts' only attempt at goal before Alexander's pass sent Elliott hurtling down the right channel.
Centre-back Anton Ferdinand seemed to have effectively tracked the run, but then rashly clattered in and Alexander drove the resulting spot-kick straight down the middle.
Poor decision-making at the heart of the home defence almost threw away the advantage as Clarke Carlisle and Andre Bikey got in each other's way under a high ball, but a rushed finish from the unmarked Bent trailed weakly into Brian Jensen's legs.
With the speed of the opposition front two, Burnley's offside trap always felt less than watertight.
Bikey was fortunate that the referee called a halt to a Sunderland attack as Campbell dispossessed him and burst towards goal, before it eventually sprung by a neat ball from Andy Reid.
Darren Bent scored his fifth league goal of the season
With Clarke Carlisle failing to keep pace with his team-mates' advance, Bent delayed his run expertly to exploit the centre-back's lack of alertness, latch on to Reid's pass and slip the ball past Jensen.
Burnley came close to an immediate response as substitute Joey Gudjonsson, on after Chris McCann twisted his knee in a challenge with Michael Turner, flicked on Blake's corner, but none of his colleagues could get a touch as the ball crossed the face of the goal.
The second half started with optimistic shouts for a penalty for a handball against Stephen Fletcher, before Jensen had to be alert to repel a forceful shot from Campbell as Bent's dummy bought his strike partner some space in the box.
Elliott sidestepped Kieran Richardson before shooting over at the other end but his next contribution was more telling.
An inviting cross picked out Nugent who buried a muscular header beyond Craig Gordon to restore the lead.
It was a sweet moment for the forward who turned down a move to Sunderland before agreeing a switch to Portsmouth in 2007, but then scored only three league goals in two years on the south coast.
The introduction of Jones just after the hour failed to sharpen the visitors' cutting edge, and a Lorik Cana header which drifted on to the roof of the net was as close as they came to shutting the gap.
Nugent, who made his Burnley debut from the bench against Liverpool last week, looked instilled with confidence as he scored a fine second.
Tyrone Mears' pass found Nugent with Turner and Cana at his back, but the former Preston man nonchalantly turned and and stroked the ball into the top corner.
Deserved yellow cards for frustrated challenges from Phil Bardsley and Richardson capped a dismal second half from Steve Bruce's side.
The hosts had been ahead through Graham Alexander's spot-kick after Anton Ferdinand's foul on Wade Elliott.
Steve Bruce's men pulled level through a cool Darren Bent finish, but Nugent met Elliott's cross with a powerful header to restore the lead.
The 24-year-old then curled home from just inside the box to wrap up the win.
Seven successive clean sheets had been the backbone of Burnley's home form but the pace of Bent and Fraizer Campbell, preferred to Kenwyne Jones, soon hinted at the frailties that have seen them concede nine in the last three games away from Turf Moor.
Steven Fletcher's solid but stray long-range strike had been the hosts' only attempt at goal before Alexander's pass sent Elliott hurtling down the right channel.
Centre-back Anton Ferdinand seemed to have effectively tracked the run, but then rashly clattered in and Alexander drove the resulting spot-kick straight down the middle.
Poor decision-making at the heart of the home defence almost threw away the advantage as Clarke Carlisle and Andre Bikey got in each other's way under a high ball, but a rushed finish from the unmarked Bent trailed weakly into Brian Jensen's legs.
With the speed of the opposition front two, Burnley's offside trap always felt less than watertight.
Bikey was fortunate that the referee called a halt to a Sunderland attack as Campbell dispossessed him and burst towards goal, before it eventually sprung by a neat ball from Andy Reid.
Darren Bent scored his fifth league goal of the season
With Clarke Carlisle failing to keep pace with his team-mates' advance, Bent delayed his run expertly to exploit the centre-back's lack of alertness, latch on to Reid's pass and slip the ball past Jensen.
Burnley came close to an immediate response as substitute Joey Gudjonsson, on after Chris McCann twisted his knee in a challenge with Michael Turner, flicked on Blake's corner, but none of his colleagues could get a touch as the ball crossed the face of the goal.
The second half started with optimistic shouts for a penalty for a handball against Stephen Fletcher, before Jensen had to be alert to repel a forceful shot from Campbell as Bent's dummy bought his strike partner some space in the box.
Elliott sidestepped Kieran Richardson before shooting over at the other end but his next contribution was more telling.
An inviting cross picked out Nugent who buried a muscular header beyond Craig Gordon to restore the lead.
It was a sweet moment for the forward who turned down a move to Sunderland before agreeing a switch to Portsmouth in 2007, but then scored only three league goals in two years on the south coast.
The introduction of Jones just after the hour failed to sharpen the visitors' cutting edge, and a Lorik Cana header which drifted on to the roof of the net was as close as they came to shutting the gap.
Nugent, who made his Burnley debut from the bench against Liverpool last week, looked instilled with confidence as he scored a fine second.
Tyrone Mears' pass found Nugent with Turner and Cana at his back, but the former Preston man nonchalantly turned and and stroked the ball into the top corner.
Deserved yellow cards for frustrated challenges from Phil Bardsley and Richardson capped a dismal second half from Steve Bruce's side.
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Bolton 1 - 1 Stoke
Matt Taylor's late penalty rescued a point for Bolton just as Stoke City looked on the brink of maintaining their impressive start to the season with victory at the Reebok.
Dave Kitson's composed finish eight minutes after the interval appeared to have given Stoke their first away win in the league this season.
But Bolton were handed a lifeline - and their first home point of the season - with only a minute left when a reckless challenge from Danny Collins on Sam Ricketts saw referee Mark Clattenburg point to the spot.
Taylor calmly slotted away the penalty to give Bolton a draw and ease the pressure on manager Gary Megson, who felt the full force of the frustration of the home fans at half-time in an encounter that was high on endeavour but low on quality.
Stoke boss Tony Pulis will be bitterly disappointed at seeing victory squandered after Kitson continued his rehabilitation following an undistinguished first season in The Potteries which saw him loaned back to former club Reading.
He has returned to Stoke determined to make his mark on the Premier League, and the manner in which he took his goal was a rare moment of class in a drab affair.
For Bolton, Taylor's penalty gave them great relief after their earlier efforts to mount a comeback were thwarted when Stoke keeper Thomas Sorensen saved brilliantly from new signing Ivan Klasnic, on as a substitute, and defender Zat Knight blazed wildly over the bar with the goal at his mercy.
Even the equaliser was not enough to convince many Bolton fans, who still vented their anger at the final whistle despite seeing their side snatch a draw.
606: DEBATE
We deserved nothing today
majorblodnok
In a first half that made a nonsense of its billing as entertainment, Stoke at least gathered early momentum before being dragged down to mediocrity alongside Bolton.
Matthew Etherington had a shot blocked after good work by Ricardo Fuller, who was the booked by referee Clattenburg for diving as he went to ground under a challenge from Gavin McCann.
Bolton's response was a Gary Cahill header that flew off target and a long-range free-kick from Taylor that was collected with ease by Sorensen.
Both keepers had effectively been unemployed until Whelan tested Jussi Jaaskelainen with another free-kick that produced a fine diving save from the Bolton veteran.
The lack of action was producing a furious response from Bolton's fans, who broke out into several rounds of jeering towards the end of the first half - and their mood was not improved when striker Kevin Davies, who was giving a typically combative performance, was also shown a yellow card for diving.
Megson acted decisively during the interval and sent on Ricardo Gardner for Fabrice Muamba and gave new signing Klasnic his home debut in place of Gretar Steinsson.
It almost brought immediate rewards when Gardner's long ball released Taylor, but his finish was narrowly wide. And Stoke then made the most of the reprieve to sweep to the other end of the field and take the lead after 53 minutes.
Fuller's header allowed Kitson to turn Ricketts before sliding a precise finish low into the corner beyond Jaaskelainen.
Bolton twice had opportunities to equalise in the space of seconds after 64 minutes, first when Sorensen made a fine one-handed save from Klasnic and then when Knight blazed over from only eight yards after Stoke failed to clear the resulting corner.
Stoke were protecting their advantage without too many alarms until the late rush of blood from Collins gave Bolton a point their performance barely deserved.
Dave Kitson's composed finish eight minutes after the interval appeared to have given Stoke their first away win in the league this season.
But Bolton were handed a lifeline - and their first home point of the season - with only a minute left when a reckless challenge from Danny Collins on Sam Ricketts saw referee Mark Clattenburg point to the spot.
Taylor calmly slotted away the penalty to give Bolton a draw and ease the pressure on manager Gary Megson, who felt the full force of the frustration of the home fans at half-time in an encounter that was high on endeavour but low on quality.
Stoke boss Tony Pulis will be bitterly disappointed at seeing victory squandered after Kitson continued his rehabilitation following an undistinguished first season in The Potteries which saw him loaned back to former club Reading.
He has returned to Stoke determined to make his mark on the Premier League, and the manner in which he took his goal was a rare moment of class in a drab affair.
For Bolton, Taylor's penalty gave them great relief after their earlier efforts to mount a comeback were thwarted when Stoke keeper Thomas Sorensen saved brilliantly from new signing Ivan Klasnic, on as a substitute, and defender Zat Knight blazed wildly over the bar with the goal at his mercy.
Even the equaliser was not enough to convince many Bolton fans, who still vented their anger at the final whistle despite seeing their side snatch a draw.
606: DEBATE
We deserved nothing today
majorblodnok
In a first half that made a nonsense of its billing as entertainment, Stoke at least gathered early momentum before being dragged down to mediocrity alongside Bolton.
Matthew Etherington had a shot blocked after good work by Ricardo Fuller, who was the booked by referee Clattenburg for diving as he went to ground under a challenge from Gavin McCann.
Bolton's response was a Gary Cahill header that flew off target and a long-range free-kick from Taylor that was collected with ease by Sorensen.
Both keepers had effectively been unemployed until Whelan tested Jussi Jaaskelainen with another free-kick that produced a fine diving save from the Bolton veteran.
The lack of action was producing a furious response from Bolton's fans, who broke out into several rounds of jeering towards the end of the first half - and their mood was not improved when striker Kevin Davies, who was giving a typically combative performance, was also shown a yellow card for diving.
Megson acted decisively during the interval and sent on Ricardo Gardner for Fabrice Muamba and gave new signing Klasnic his home debut in place of Gretar Steinsson.
It almost brought immediate rewards when Gardner's long ball released Taylor, but his finish was narrowly wide. And Stoke then made the most of the reprieve to sweep to the other end of the field and take the lead after 53 minutes.
Fuller's header allowed Kitson to turn Ricketts before sliding a precise finish low into the corner beyond Jaaskelainen.
Bolton twice had opportunities to equalise in the space of seconds after 64 minutes, first when Sorensen made a fine one-handed save from Klasnic and then when Knight blazed over from only eight yards after Stoke failed to clear the resulting corner.
Stoke were protecting their advantage without too many alarms until the late rush of blood from Collins gave Bolton a point their performance barely deserved.
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Aston Villa 2 - 0 Portsmouth
Aston Villa maintained their impressive form to consign Portsmouth to a sixth successive Premier League defeat.
James Milner opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Nadir Belhadj upended Villa skipper Stilian Petrov.
Gabriel Agbonlahor then underlined Villa's superiority, converting a Milner flick-on with aplomb after a lapse of concentration by Tal Ben Haim.
The defeat makes Pompey the first top-flight side to lose their opening six games in over a quarter of a century.
Leicester City were the last team to start a top-flight campaign in similarly desultory fashion.
And while Portsmouth can perhaps take heart from the fact that the Foxes eventually recovered to finish the 1983/84 season in 15th place, they will need to tighten up significantly at the back if history is to repeat itself.
After a fifth successive win in all competitions, Villa have no such problems.
Nigel Reo-Coker's training-ground contretemps with manager Martin O'Neill overshadowed the prelude to the game, but a vibrant performance will have done much to lighten the mood in the claret-and-sky-blue camp.
O'Neill dealt with the absence of Reo-Coker, who was sent home from training on Thursday but will be considered for return to first-team contention next week, by restoring John Carew alongside Agbonlahor in attack.
The result was an infusion of attacking impetus that was evident from the opening seconds, when Agbonlahor's purposeful run towards the Pompey goal required a lunging intervention from Belhadj.
Villa's enterprise almost reaped an early reward when a left-wing cross from Ashley Young took a deflection off the forehead of Pompey midfielder Aaron Mokoena, forcing a sprightly save from England veteran David James.
James Milner opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Nadir Belhadj upended Villa skipper Stilian Petrov.
Gabriel Agbonlahor then underlined Villa's superiority, converting a Milner flick-on with aplomb after a lapse of concentration by Tal Ben Haim.
The defeat makes Pompey the first top-flight side to lose their opening six games in over a quarter of a century.
Leicester City were the last team to start a top-flight campaign in similarly desultory fashion.
And while Portsmouth can perhaps take heart from the fact that the Foxes eventually recovered to finish the 1983/84 season in 15th place, they will need to tighten up significantly at the back if history is to repeat itself.
After a fifth successive win in all competitions, Villa have no such problems.
Nigel Reo-Coker's training-ground contretemps with manager Martin O'Neill overshadowed the prelude to the game, but a vibrant performance will have done much to lighten the mood in the claret-and-sky-blue camp.
O'Neill dealt with the absence of Reo-Coker, who was sent home from training on Thursday but will be considered for return to first-team contention next week, by restoring John Carew alongside Agbonlahor in attack.
The result was an infusion of attacking impetus that was evident from the opening seconds, when Agbonlahor's purposeful run towards the Pompey goal required a lunging intervention from Belhadj.
Villa's enterprise almost reaped an early reward when a left-wing cross from Ashley Young took a deflection off the forehead of Pompey midfielder Aaron Mokoena, forcing a sprightly save from England veteran David James.
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Arsenal 4 - 0 Wigan
Arsenal produced an incisive, attacking display to cruise to a comfortable victory against a lacklustre Wigan.
Centre-back Thomas Vermaelen rose to head the Gunners into the lead from a corner before curling in his second from the edge of the box.
Arsenal's third came when a shot by Eduardo found the net courtesy of a deflection from Emmanuel Eboue, who may well ultimately claim it.
A back-heel finish by Cesc Fabregas in injury time crowned a superb win.
Headlines in the week leading up to the game had been dominated by the fall-out from the more unsavoury aspects of Arsenal's 4-2 defeat at Manchester City.
Seven days on, and without a pumped-up former Gunner in the opposition ranks, Arsenal showcased the authoritative, possession football that is their staple.
However, in the early stages a quality final ball was lacking and the home side were limited to a brace of long-range snap-shots from Robin van Persie and Abou Diaby and a free-kick from the former which flashed past the post.
Van Persie was presented with a better opportunity after 20 minutes when Eboue was released down the right before driving over a cross from near the byline, but the ball was just behind the striker and he was only able to steer a tame effort wide of goal.
After softening up their opponents with these early jabs, Arsenal landed the first hammer blow from which Wigan never recovered, when Van Persie swung over a corner and Vermaelen rose above a trio of Wigan defenders to plant a powerful header past keeper Chris Kirkland.
The Gunners maintained the pressure following the goal and Van Persie again carved out a good opportunity, threading in Eboue behind the Wigan defence on the right but the midfielder's shot flashed across goal.
Having demonstrated his nerves early on with a header outside the area that almost gifted Wigan a chance, young goalkeeper Vito Mannone made a fine save to preserve Arsenal's lead, parrying Emmerson Boyce's six-yard header from a corner.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/8264897.stm
Centre-back Thomas Vermaelen rose to head the Gunners into the lead from a corner before curling in his second from the edge of the box.
Arsenal's third came when a shot by Eduardo found the net courtesy of a deflection from Emmanuel Eboue, who may well ultimately claim it.
A back-heel finish by Cesc Fabregas in injury time crowned a superb win.
Headlines in the week leading up to the game had been dominated by the fall-out from the more unsavoury aspects of Arsenal's 4-2 defeat at Manchester City.
Seven days on, and without a pumped-up former Gunner in the opposition ranks, Arsenal showcased the authoritative, possession football that is their staple.
However, in the early stages a quality final ball was lacking and the home side were limited to a brace of long-range snap-shots from Robin van Persie and Abou Diaby and a free-kick from the former which flashed past the post.
Van Persie was presented with a better opportunity after 20 minutes when Eboue was released down the right before driving over a cross from near the byline, but the ball was just behind the striker and he was only able to steer a tame effort wide of goal.
After softening up their opponents with these early jabs, Arsenal landed the first hammer blow from which Wigan never recovered, when Van Persie swung over a corner and Vermaelen rose above a trio of Wigan defenders to plant a powerful header past keeper Chris Kirkland.
The Gunners maintained the pressure following the goal and Van Persie again carved out a good opportunity, threading in Eboue behind the Wigan defence on the right but the midfielder's shot flashed across goal.
Having demonstrated his nerves early on with a header outside the area that almost gifted Wigan a chance, young goalkeeper Vito Mannone made a fine save to preserve Arsenal's lead, parrying Emmerson Boyce's six-yard header from a corner.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/8264897.stm
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Match other in premier league on Sat' 19' 09
Barnsley vs Swansea City
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Bristol City vs Scunthorpe United
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Cardiff City vs Queens Park Rangers
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Crystal Palace vs Derby County
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Doncaster Rovers vs Ipswich Town
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Middlesbrough vs West Bromwich Albion
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Newcastle United vs Plymouth Argyle
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Nottingham Forest vs Blackpool
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Peterborough United vs Reading
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Preston North End
vs
Coventry City
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Watford
vs
Leicester City
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Brentford
vs
Bristol Rovers
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Brighton and Hove Albion
vs
Southend United
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Colchester United
vs
Hartlepool United
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Exeter City
vs
Tranmere Rovers
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Leeds United
vs
Gillingham
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Millwall
vs
Huddersfield Town
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Norwich City
vs
Charlton Athletic
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Oldham Athletic
vs
Carlisle United
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Southampton
vs
Yeovil
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Stockport County
vs
Leyton Orient
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Walsall
vs
Swindon Town
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Wycombe Wanderers
vs
Milton Keynes Dons
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Barnet
vs
Bradford City
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Burton Albion
vs
Dagenham & Redbridge
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Cheltenham Town
vs
Rotherham United
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Chesterfield
vs
Macclesfield Town
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Crewe Alexandra
vs
Aldershot
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Darlington
vs
Bournemouth
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Hereford United
vs
Accrington Stanley
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Lincoln City
vs
Shrewsbury Town
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Morecambe
vs
Notts County
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Northampton Town
vs
Rochdale
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Port Vale
vs
Bury
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Torquay United
vs
Grimsby Town
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Kilmarnock vs Rangers
SPL, Kick-off: 12: 30
Aberdeen vs St Mirren
SPL, Kick-off: 15: 00
Dundee United vs Motherwell
SPL, Kick-off: 15: 00
Hamilton vs Falkirk
SPL, Kick-off: 15: 00
Hibernian vs St Johnstone
SPL, Kick-off: 15: 00
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Bristol City vs Scunthorpe United
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Cardiff City vs Queens Park Rangers
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Crystal Palace vs Derby County
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Doncaster Rovers vs Ipswich Town
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Middlesbrough vs West Bromwich Albion
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Newcastle United vs Plymouth Argyle
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Nottingham Forest vs Blackpool
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Peterborough United vs Reading
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Preston North End
vs
Coventry City
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Watford
vs
Leicester City
CCC, Kick-off: 15: 00
Brentford
vs
Bristol Rovers
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Brighton and Hove Albion
vs
Southend United
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Colchester United
vs
Hartlepool United
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Exeter City
vs
Tranmere Rovers
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Leeds United
vs
Gillingham
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Millwall
vs
Huddersfield Town
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Norwich City
vs
Charlton Athletic
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Oldham Athletic
vs
Carlisle United
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Southampton
vs
Yeovil
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Stockport County
vs
Leyton Orient
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Walsall
vs
Swindon Town
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Wycombe Wanderers
vs
Milton Keynes Dons
CC1, Kick-off: 15: 00
Barnet
vs
Bradford City
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Burton Albion
vs
Dagenham & Redbridge
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Cheltenham Town
vs
Rotherham United
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Chesterfield
vs
Macclesfield Town
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Crewe Alexandra
vs
Aldershot
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Darlington
vs
Bournemouth
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Hereford United
vs
Accrington Stanley
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Lincoln City
vs
Shrewsbury Town
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Morecambe
vs
Notts County
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Northampton Town
vs
Rochdale
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Port Vale
vs
Bury
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Torquay United
vs
Grimsby Town
CC2, Kick-off: 15: 00
Kilmarnock vs Rangers
SPL, Kick-off: 12: 30
Aberdeen vs St Mirren
SPL, Kick-off: 15: 00
Dundee United vs Motherwell
SPL, Kick-off: 15: 00
Hamilton vs Falkirk
SPL, Kick-off: 15: 00
Hibernian vs St Johnstone
SPL, Kick-off: 15: 00
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West Ham United vs Liverpool
Prem, Kick-off: 17: 30
Liverpool travel to Upton Park on Saturday with a 'must do better' stamp placed on the early-term performances of both sides.
West Ham United manager Gianfranco Zola has been forced to wheel-and-deal throughout the transfer window but has amended the balance of his squad with little resources.
Though Liverpool were the second biggest spenders in the Premier League behind Manchester City in the summer, the situation at Anfield has been very similar as Rafael Benitez has had to sell players to bring in new faces.
The Hammers have not won in the league since the opening day of the season and lie just below mid-table.
Liverpool's form has been well documented, but wins over Bolton and Burnley appear to have got their season back on track.
But their title credentials will be under the microscope once again when they travel to the capital, knowing that any further slip ups in the race to catch Chelsea will severely dent their chances of league glory when May arrives.
Though Liverpool have a good record over the Irons, Upton Park is regarded as one of the grounds which is among the most difficult for the big boys to go and get a win in the Premier League and Zola will be hoping his charges can raise their game against a top four side once again to reignite their season.
It is not yet known when Hammers full-back Henrita Ilunga will be fit to return to playing due to a broken cheekbone, while Luis Boa Morte and Dean Ashton are out for the long-term.
Javier Mascherano is back fit for the Reds, who are counting down the days for £20million Italian Alberto Aquilani to come in and line up alongside the Argentinian.
Daniel Agger joins Aquilani as a long-term absentee, but Fabio Aurelio is back fit. Moroccan winger Nabil El Zhar may make the bench after a knee ligament problem
Liverpool travel to Upton Park on Saturday with a 'must do better' stamp placed on the early-term performances of both sides.
West Ham United manager Gianfranco Zola has been forced to wheel-and-deal throughout the transfer window but has amended the balance of his squad with little resources.
Though Liverpool were the second biggest spenders in the Premier League behind Manchester City in the summer, the situation at Anfield has been very similar as Rafael Benitez has had to sell players to bring in new faces.
The Hammers have not won in the league since the opening day of the season and lie just below mid-table.
Liverpool's form has been well documented, but wins over Bolton and Burnley appear to have got their season back on track.
But their title credentials will be under the microscope once again when they travel to the capital, knowing that any further slip ups in the race to catch Chelsea will severely dent their chances of league glory when May arrives.
Though Liverpool have a good record over the Irons, Upton Park is regarded as one of the grounds which is among the most difficult for the big boys to go and get a win in the Premier League and Zola will be hoping his charges can raise their game against a top four side once again to reignite their season.
It is not yet known when Hammers full-back Henrita Ilunga will be fit to return to playing due to a broken cheekbone, while Luis Boa Morte and Dean Ashton are out for the long-term.
Javier Mascherano is back fit for the Reds, who are counting down the days for £20million Italian Alberto Aquilani to come in and line up alongside the Argentinian.
Daniel Agger joins Aquilani as a long-term absentee, but Fabio Aurelio is back fit. Moroccan winger Nabil El Zhar may make the bench after a knee ligament problem
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Hull City vs Birmingham City
It's only mid-September but the clash between Hull City and Birmingham City is the latest of a number of fixtures that have already been billed as a relegation six-pointer.
Both clubs have been touted in several quarters as potential relegation candidates come the season's end and those claims will not fade for some time unless Phil Brown and Alex McLeish can mastermind a run of victories to claw their respective sides up the table.
As expected, both sides slumped to demoralising derby defeats at the weekend.
The Tigers made the short trip to Sunderland in what was the closest the Premier League will get to a north-east derby this season.
A fair first period at the Stadium of the Light was not enough from the Tigers, as Sunderland ran riot to win 4-1 and confirm that City have one of the worst defences in the top flight.
The Blues welcomed city rivals Aston Villa to St Andrew's on Sunday morning and were left heartbroken by a late Gabriel Agbonlahor header which claimed all three points for the visitors.
It was perhaps the case that Birmingham deserved a 0-0 draw from the match, but the game confirmed their status as one of the least able teams in the Premier League when it comes to scoring goals.
The Blues' ability to score will be even further weakened by the absence of a host of first-team players this weekend.
Birmingham are the worst-hit side in the Premier League on the injury front. The loss of play-maker James McFadden in the Birmingham derby will leave McLeish feeling anxious. If the Scot's hamstring tweak proves to be serious, the Blues will be left short of ideas.
Cameron Jerome (foot) is also out, although Marcus Bent may recover from a hamstring problem.
David Murphy, Stephen Carr and Gregory Vignal may also return, although Maik Taylor and Liam Ridgewell are considerably short of fitness.
Hull have problems themselves, but Anthony Gardner, Dean Marney and Jimmy Bullard are not too far away from first-team returns. However, Ian Ashbee and Richard Garcia are out for the long-term.
Both clubs have been touted in several quarters as potential relegation candidates come the season's end and those claims will not fade for some time unless Phil Brown and Alex McLeish can mastermind a run of victories to claw their respective sides up the table.
As expected, both sides slumped to demoralising derby defeats at the weekend.
The Tigers made the short trip to Sunderland in what was the closest the Premier League will get to a north-east derby this season.
A fair first period at the Stadium of the Light was not enough from the Tigers, as Sunderland ran riot to win 4-1 and confirm that City have one of the worst defences in the top flight.
The Blues welcomed city rivals Aston Villa to St Andrew's on Sunday morning and were left heartbroken by a late Gabriel Agbonlahor header which claimed all three points for the visitors.
It was perhaps the case that Birmingham deserved a 0-0 draw from the match, but the game confirmed their status as one of the least able teams in the Premier League when it comes to scoring goals.
The Blues' ability to score will be even further weakened by the absence of a host of first-team players this weekend.
Birmingham are the worst-hit side in the Premier League on the injury front. The loss of play-maker James McFadden in the Birmingham derby will leave McLeish feeling anxious. If the Scot's hamstring tweak proves to be serious, the Blues will be left short of ideas.
Cameron Jerome (foot) is also out, although Marcus Bent may recover from a hamstring problem.
David Murphy, Stephen Carr and Gregory Vignal may also return, although Maik Taylor and Liam Ridgewell are considerably short of fitness.
Hull have problems themselves, but Anthony Gardner, Dean Marney and Jimmy Bullard are not too far away from first-team returns. However, Ian Ashbee and Richard Garcia are out for the long-term.
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Bolton Wanderers vs Stoke City
Prem, Kick-off: 15: 00
On the opening day of last season, Bolton Wanderers dispatched Stoke City with incredible ease, but the fortunes of the two sides have headed in opposite directions ever since.
The Potters arrive at the Reebok Stadium expected by many to win after a strong start to the new campaign. There have certainly been no signs of 'second season syndrome' at the Britannia Stadium as Tony Pulis' side have rocketed to eighth in the Premier League table.
Stoke's fans will travel up the M6 with their umbrellas at the ready, as clouds are steadily gathering over the Reebok Stadium and they are tainted by negativity.
But unpopular Trotters managers Gary Megson will hope for a silver lining on a hit-and-miss start to the season after finally watching his team beat Portsmouth at Fratton Park on Saturday.
Following an impressive effort against Liverpool, the Trotters showed signs of rediscovering the winning mentality which has so often been their saving grace in the Premier League by seeing off Pompey.
But they do still lie in the bottom three and will view the visit of Stoke as an opportunity to pick up maximum points.
Wanderers are likely to be without star winger Ricardo Gardner for another fortnight. The Jamaican has been sidelined for the whole season so far with a hamstring injury and is recovering more slowly than expected.
Stoke are facing an anxious wait on two key players who suffered knocks in their last-gasp defeat to Chelsea on Saturday.
Top front-man James Beattie twisted his ankle in the match, while goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen hurt his back and had to be substituted.
Reserve glove-bearer Steve Simonsen may be called on to step in for the Dane, while Dave Kitson will be vying a starting place if Beattie does not recover in time.
On the opening day of last season, Bolton Wanderers dispatched Stoke City with incredible ease, but the fortunes of the two sides have headed in opposite directions ever since.
The Potters arrive at the Reebok Stadium expected by many to win after a strong start to the new campaign. There have certainly been no signs of 'second season syndrome' at the Britannia Stadium as Tony Pulis' side have rocketed to eighth in the Premier League table.
Stoke's fans will travel up the M6 with their umbrellas at the ready, as clouds are steadily gathering over the Reebok Stadium and they are tainted by negativity.
But unpopular Trotters managers Gary Megson will hope for a silver lining on a hit-and-miss start to the season after finally watching his team beat Portsmouth at Fratton Park on Saturday.
Following an impressive effort against Liverpool, the Trotters showed signs of rediscovering the winning mentality which has so often been their saving grace in the Premier League by seeing off Pompey.
But they do still lie in the bottom three and will view the visit of Stoke as an opportunity to pick up maximum points.
Wanderers are likely to be without star winger Ricardo Gardner for another fortnight. The Jamaican has been sidelined for the whole season so far with a hamstring injury and is recovering more slowly than expected.
Stoke are facing an anxious wait on two key players who suffered knocks in their last-gasp defeat to Chelsea on Saturday.
Top front-man James Beattie twisted his ankle in the match, while goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen hurt his back and had to be substituted.
Reserve glove-bearer Steve Simonsen may be called on to step in for the Dane, while Dave Kitson will be vying a starting place if Beattie does not recover in time.
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Aston Villa vs Portsmouth
Portsmouth travel to the West Midlands already playing catch up with the rest of the Premier League after a disastrous start to the season.
Five losses from five spell the worst start possible for Paul Hart's side, which has been heavily restructured in recent weeks.
MARTIN O'NEILL
Although there has been some misfortune at Fratton Park on the pitch in recent weeks, the harsh truth facing Hart is that his side haven't been good enough to expect to survive in the Premier League thus far.
Villa have gone from strength-to-strength since a nightmare opening day performance at home to Wigan Athletic, silencing critics who claimed they would be unable to back up on their performances from the 2008-09 season.
Martin O'Neill will expect nothing less of his side than a convincing victory and an early exit from the UEFA Europa League is perhaps a benefit to his side's performances domestically.
Villa will have midweek off this week while the likes of Everton and Fulham slog it out across the continent on Thursday, freeing them to concentrate on league success and allow O'Neill's modestly-sized squad some respite after a hard-fought derby win over Birmingham City on Sunday.
Villa will need as much rest as they can get, as Stewart Downing is out until Christmas with his ankle injury, while Curtis Davies has a dislocated shoulder and could be sidelined until the new year.
Versatile defender Luke Young may be back in contention after a thigh problem and compassionate leave.
If Portsmouth's problems weren't bad enough, they still have a number of players in the treatment room and plenty face a race against time to be fit for the trip to Villa Park.
Mark Wilson (groin), Papa Bouba Diop (hamstring), Herman Hreidarsson (ankle) and Steve Finnan (hamstring) are all doubtful, while Linvoy Primus is expected to be out for some time.
Five losses from five spell the worst start possible for Paul Hart's side, which has been heavily restructured in recent weeks.
MARTIN O'NEILL
Although there has been some misfortune at Fratton Park on the pitch in recent weeks, the harsh truth facing Hart is that his side haven't been good enough to expect to survive in the Premier League thus far.
Villa have gone from strength-to-strength since a nightmare opening day performance at home to Wigan Athletic, silencing critics who claimed they would be unable to back up on their performances from the 2008-09 season.
Martin O'Neill will expect nothing less of his side than a convincing victory and an early exit from the UEFA Europa League is perhaps a benefit to his side's performances domestically.
Villa will have midweek off this week while the likes of Everton and Fulham slog it out across the continent on Thursday, freeing them to concentrate on league success and allow O'Neill's modestly-sized squad some respite after a hard-fought derby win over Birmingham City on Sunday.
Villa will need as much rest as they can get, as Stewart Downing is out until Christmas with his ankle injury, while Curtis Davies has a dislocated shoulder and could be sidelined until the new year.
Versatile defender Luke Young may be back in contention after a thigh problem and compassionate leave.
If Portsmouth's problems weren't bad enough, they still have a number of players in the treatment room and plenty face a race against time to be fit for the trip to Villa Park.
Mark Wilson (groin), Papa Bouba Diop (hamstring), Herman Hreidarsson (ankle) and Steve Finnan (hamstring) are all doubtful, while Linvoy Primus is expected to be out for some time.
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Arsenal vs Wigan Athletic
Arsenal have suddenly slipped to two defeats in Manchester and the early-season momentum that was gathering at the Emirates Stadium has hit a brick wall.
Before the Premier League's kick-off, Arsenal were fancied by many to end the top-four's monopoly on the Champions League by dropping down to a Europa League place.
But after a string of impressive performances, including a 6-1 massacring of Everton, the Gunners were suddenly recognised as a threat to Manchester United's crown.
Then came an unlucky defeat at Old Trafford and a 4-2 loss at Manchester City to leave Arsene Wenger back at square one.
Nobody quite knows where Arsenal will end up this term and it is down to Wenger to get his side's season back on track with a string of wins starting this weekend.
Wigan arrive in north London after an inconsistent start themselves, but new manager Roberto Martinez looks to be getting to grips with his squad at the DW Stadium.
A 1-0 defeat of West Ham last weekend marked progress for the Latics, who will arrive in hope rather than expectation.
Wenger has an overloaded treatment room at present, with both goalkeepers among those who are unhealthy.
Manuel Almunia has a virus, while Lukasz Fabianski has a knee injury which will keep him out of action for another month.
Andrei Arshavin, Carlos Vela, Johan Djourou and Samir Nasri are also certain absentees, while fitness checks will be made on several others.
In contrast, Wigan's only casualty is Olivier Kapo. The midfielder is expected to be out for a further fortnight with a medial knee ligament problem.
Since making their top-flight debut in 2005, Wigan have never beaten Arsenal. In eight league meetings, the Gunners have won seven, with the sides drawing just once.
Before the Premier League's kick-off, Arsenal were fancied by many to end the top-four's monopoly on the Champions League by dropping down to a Europa League place.
But after a string of impressive performances, including a 6-1 massacring of Everton, the Gunners were suddenly recognised as a threat to Manchester United's crown.
Then came an unlucky defeat at Old Trafford and a 4-2 loss at Manchester City to leave Arsene Wenger back at square one.
Nobody quite knows where Arsenal will end up this term and it is down to Wenger to get his side's season back on track with a string of wins starting this weekend.
Wigan arrive in north London after an inconsistent start themselves, but new manager Roberto Martinez looks to be getting to grips with his squad at the DW Stadium.
A 1-0 defeat of West Ham last weekend marked progress for the Latics, who will arrive in hope rather than expectation.
Wenger has an overloaded treatment room at present, with both goalkeepers among those who are unhealthy.
Manuel Almunia has a virus, while Lukasz Fabianski has a knee injury which will keep him out of action for another month.
Andrei Arshavin, Carlos Vela, Johan Djourou and Samir Nasri are also certain absentees, while fitness checks will be made on several others.
In contrast, Wigan's only casualty is Olivier Kapo. The midfielder is expected to be out for a further fortnight with a medial knee ligament problem.
Since making their top-flight debut in 2005, Wigan have never beaten Arsenal. In eight league meetings, the Gunners have won seven, with the sides drawing just once.
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Burnley vs Sunderland
For many Burnley fans, the season starts this weekend after the most daunting of starts in the Premier League.
Six points from four games is a fair return for any team that are expected to be rooted in the relegation zone of the Premier League, but Owen Coyle will be buoyed that his Clarets managed two wins in fixtures with four of last season's top five.
OWEN COYLE
Sunderland are the visitors to Turf Moor this weekend and Steve Bruce will be under no illusions that the Clarets are quickly making their modest old ground into a fortress.
The pressure on Bruce this season has been well-documented, due to a number of expensive signings making their way to Wearside.
But the Black Cats have made a decent start to life under their new manager, managing three wins from five and are level with the likes of Liverpool and Aston Villa in the table.
Going by form, Burnley's start to the season does not get any easier just yet, as Bruce oversaw his side run riot at home to Hull City at the weekend.
While the Clarets went down 4-0 at Liverpool, Sunderland also scored four goals as recent signing Darren Bent took his goal tally to four in five games.
Burnley will once again check on the fitness of Steven Caldwell whose continued absence has been attributed to a groin injury.
George McCartney is definitely out for Sunderland with a troublesome hamstring which could prolong his absence for another month.
When the sides have met in recent seasons below the top tier, there has been plenty of goals at both ends.
With defences that are not so reliable and with two sides that have a philosophy to attack, expect both sides to have a number of chances to put themselves into winning positions on Saturday afternoon.
Six points from four games is a fair return for any team that are expected to be rooted in the relegation zone of the Premier League, but Owen Coyle will be buoyed that his Clarets managed two wins in fixtures with four of last season's top five.
OWEN COYLE
Sunderland are the visitors to Turf Moor this weekend and Steve Bruce will be under no illusions that the Clarets are quickly making their modest old ground into a fortress.
The pressure on Bruce this season has been well-documented, due to a number of expensive signings making their way to Wearside.
But the Black Cats have made a decent start to life under their new manager, managing three wins from five and are level with the likes of Liverpool and Aston Villa in the table.
Going by form, Burnley's start to the season does not get any easier just yet, as Bruce oversaw his side run riot at home to Hull City at the weekend.
While the Clarets went down 4-0 at Liverpool, Sunderland also scored four goals as recent signing Darren Bent took his goal tally to four in five games.
Burnley will once again check on the fitness of Steven Caldwell whose continued absence has been attributed to a groin injury.
George McCartney is definitely out for Sunderland with a troublesome hamstring which could prolong his absence for another month.
When the sides have met in recent seasons below the top tier, there has been plenty of goals at both ends.
With defences that are not so reliable and with two sides that have a philosophy to attack, expect both sides to have a number of chances to put themselves into winning positions on Saturday afternoon.
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Is English football deluding itself
So is English football really the best in the world? I pose that question because I tend to think that it is, and that view is shared by so many in this country.
However, if indeed Chelsea are the best team in England at the moment, and five wins out of five in the Premier League would seem to indicate that fact as they sit at the top of the table, then the question should really be ...
Are we actually deluding ourselves?
Three teams in the semi-finals, four teams in the last eight, two teams in the final; we've managed it in recent years, but this season is the acid test.
The balance of power has shifted back to Spain, where Real Madrid's £220 million summer spending spree will provide champions Barcelona with a real challenge.
After winning Euro 2008, Spain has suddenly risen at both international as well as club level to have every right to say it has usurped England's claim to possess the best league in the world. It is a tough call. This season could be decisive, notably with a World Cup at the end of it.
However, if indeed Chelsea are the best team in England at the moment, and five wins out of five in the Premier League would seem to indicate that fact as they sit at the top of the table, then the question should really be ...
Are we actually deluding ourselves?
Three teams in the semi-finals, four teams in the last eight, two teams in the final; we've managed it in recent years, but this season is the acid test.
The balance of power has shifted back to Spain, where Real Madrid's £220 million summer spending spree will provide champions Barcelona with a real challenge.
After winning Euro 2008, Spain has suddenly risen at both international as well as club level to have every right to say it has usurped England's claim to possess the best league in the world. It is a tough call. This season could be decisive, notably with a World Cup at the end of it.
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Kenyon leaves a mixed legacy
The whispers and rumours surrounding Peter Kenyon's bombshell of a departure from Chelsea have begun in earnest but, as with every key decision taken by the silent Roman Abramovich, the real reasons behind Wednesday's news are likely to remain out of the public domain, officially at least.
Was Kenyon the victim of a behind-closed doors power struggle with Frank Arnesen? Is he being lined up for a role at Manchester City? Did the Gael Kakuta saga spell the end of his grip on the Stamford Bridge piggy bank?
Concerns over Chelsea's recruitment policy have been paramount following the Kakuta case and the timing is interesting, but surely their aggregation of young players, and the methods by which that is achieved, falls under the remit of Frank Arnesen, not Kenyon. Indeed, the influence of the Dane has been mooted as a potential factor in Kenyon's departure.
Was Kenyon the victim of a behind-closed doors power struggle with Frank Arnesen? Is he being lined up for a role at Manchester City? Did the Gael Kakuta saga spell the end of his grip on the Stamford Bridge piggy bank?
Concerns over Chelsea's recruitment policy have been paramount following the Kakuta case and the timing is interesting, but surely their aggregation of young players, and the methods by which that is achieved, falls under the remit of Frank Arnesen, not Kenyon. Indeed, the influence of the Dane has been mooted as a potential factor in Kenyon's departure.
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Premier League records fifth-highest losses in Europe, claims Uefa
Manchester City's and Real Madrid made a combined spending of £330m this summer. Uefa wants clubs to take more financial responsibility. Photograph: Rebecca Naden/PA
The Premier League has been warned to face up to its financial responsibilities after it made the fifth-highest losses in Europe. A third of the teams in England's top flight had losses of at least 20% of their income saids Uefa's ecretary general, David Taylor, while almost a quarter of Europe's top clubs faced similar problems.
The Premier League was trailed only by Romania, Ukraine, the Czech Republic and Poland in terms of losses made, while Italy was 15th in the list of 53 European federations, with Spain ranked 35th and France and Germany among the best scorers. Despite reporting an average income per club of £122m, six of the 18 clubs investigated in the Premier League reported large losses. Germany, Italy and Spain are its closest competitors when it comes to average club income, all three hovering around the £75m mark.
The financial problems are there despite a tripling of income for clubs since 1997, largely through marketing and media revenue. But while income rose by 5% last year alone, player costs increased by 9%.
"The huge spending on players produces constantly an inflationary effect with consequences on the whole club football movement," Taylor said, who added that "the current financial crisis has exacerbated the situation."
The Premier League has been warned to face up to its financial responsibilities after it made the fifth-highest losses in Europe. A third of the teams in England's top flight had losses of at least 20% of their income saids Uefa's ecretary general, David Taylor, while almost a quarter of Europe's top clubs faced similar problems.
The Premier League was trailed only by Romania, Ukraine, the Czech Republic and Poland in terms of losses made, while Italy was 15th in the list of 53 European federations, with Spain ranked 35th and France and Germany among the best scorers. Despite reporting an average income per club of £122m, six of the 18 clubs investigated in the Premier League reported large losses. Germany, Italy and Spain are its closest competitors when it comes to average club income, all three hovering around the £75m mark.
The financial problems are there despite a tripling of income for clubs since 1997, largely through marketing and media revenue. But while income rose by 5% last year alone, player costs increased by 9%.
"The huge spending on players produces constantly an inflationary effect with consequences on the whole club football movement," Taylor said, who added that "the current financial crisis has exacerbated the situation."
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Hodgson - We're serious about this
Roy Hodgson denied Fulham are neglecting the Europa League by making wholesale changes for Thursday's Group E clash with CSKA Sofia.
Only goalkeeper David Stockdale and defender John Pantsil survive from the starting line-up that defeated Everton 2-1 in the Premier League on Sunday.
Fulham have been robbed of front-line players such as Danny Murphy and Clint Dempsey through injury, but Hodgson has also opted to rest the likes of Andy Johnson and Brede Hangeland.
Aston Villa and Tottenham made their opinion of Europe clear last season by fielding severely-weakened sides and paid the price with their exits.
But Hodgson defended his team selection by denying he has adopted a similar tact, declaring he expects his international-heavy line-up to topple the Bulgarian league leaders.
Only goalkeeper David Stockdale and defender John Pantsil survive from the starting line-up that defeated Everton 2-1 in the Premier League on Sunday.
Fulham have been robbed of front-line players such as Danny Murphy and Clint Dempsey through injury, but Hodgson has also opted to rest the likes of Andy Johnson and Brede Hangeland.
Aston Villa and Tottenham made their opinion of Europe clear last season by fielding severely-weakened sides and paid the price with their exits.
But Hodgson defended his team selection by denying he has adopted a similar tact, declaring he expects his international-heavy line-up to topple the Bulgarian league leaders.
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Liverpool look ahead after Champions League scare
LIVERPOOL — Liverpool will hope to make it four wins in a row when they visit West Ham in the Premier League on Saturday after limping to a 1-0 victory against Hungarian champions Debrecen in Europe.
"We're slowly getting back to where we want to be," Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard said after seeing his side struggle to victory over Debrecen in their opening Champions League Group E tie at Anfield on Wednesday.
"It's three wins on the spin, hopefully we can make that four at West Ham," added the England midfielder.
Dutch striker Dirk Kuyt scored the only goal against Debrecen, who were making their first appearance in the Champions League group stages.
"The most important thing is to get the three points," Reds manager Rafael Benitez said after seeing Kuyt's goal in added time at the end of the first half secure the win.
"People didn't know what to expect because they didn't know the other team, but they showed they're not bad," added the Spaniard who was celebrating his 300th game in charge of Liverpool.
Attention now turns to Saturday and Liverpool's visit to West Ham.
The Reds, boosted this week by a multi-million pound sponsorship deal signed with Standard Chartered Bank, have endured a mixed start to the new Premier League season.
Liverpool have lost two of their opening five fixtures - the same number as during the whole of last season when they finished second to champions Manchester United.
"Everyone knows we had a bad start... We are trying to get our confidence back," Kuyt said on Wednesday.
"We're slowly getting back to where we want to be," Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard said after seeing his side struggle to victory over Debrecen in their opening Champions League Group E tie at Anfield on Wednesday.
"It's three wins on the spin, hopefully we can make that four at West Ham," added the England midfielder.
Dutch striker Dirk Kuyt scored the only goal against Debrecen, who were making their first appearance in the Champions League group stages.
"The most important thing is to get the three points," Reds manager Rafael Benitez said after seeing Kuyt's goal in added time at the end of the first half secure the win.
"People didn't know what to expect because they didn't know the other team, but they showed they're not bad," added the Spaniard who was celebrating his 300th game in charge of Liverpool.
Attention now turns to Saturday and Liverpool's visit to West Ham.
The Reds, boosted this week by a multi-million pound sponsorship deal signed with Standard Chartered Bank, have endured a mixed start to the new Premier League season.
Liverpool have lost two of their opening five fixtures - the same number as during the whole of last season when they finished second to champions Manchester United.
"Everyone knows we had a bad start... We are trying to get our confidence back," Kuyt said on Wednesday.
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Our Two Penneth
STICKING THE BOOT IN - Diego Forlan has revealed why he left Manchester United five years ago. And no, it's not because he was rubbish. Apparently, it's all down to him wearing the wrong kind of boots. Forlan explains: "Ferguson wanted me to play with high studs, the interchangeable ones that suit wet pitches, but I feel more comfortable in low ones. I agreed to change, but I didn't and, against Chelsea, I slipped in front of goal and wasted a chance. Afterwards, I rushed to the dressing room to change boots, but Ferguson caught me. He grabbed the boots and threw them. That was my last game for United." Still, Fergie and Forlan do hook up from time to time...whenever Fergie wants help with scouting. "When we were in London [with Villarreal before a Champions League game against Arsenal] Ferguson showed up at our hotel," Forlan added. "I still have a good relationship with Sir Alex and his brother Martin. We have conversations and sometimes he asks me about South American players I might know of." Ah, true friendship.
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Our Two Penneth1
WII ARE NOT AMUSED - Football Association bosses have asked that England's World Cup base in South Africa be equipped with computer games so the squad doesn't get bored. Perhaps keen to avoid the training camp shenanigans that have blighted England's previous campaigns, Fabio Capello is looking to keep his players occupied between games and wants them to have access to Wiis and Playstations at their luxury hotel complex, which is still under construction. Gareth Simaan, boss of the company which is building the new complex, says: "We are working on a daily basis with the FA to meet their requirements. We have had quite stringent requirements from England and we are fulfilling every one. The players will not want for anything while they are here - every need will be taken care of. We have space for Playstations and Wiis and other lifestyle activities for the players. It will be a home from home for them." Capello has also asked for 7ft long beds so Peter Crouch can get a decent night's sleep. Bless.
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Beckhamwatch: Scruff Of The Becks
Tuesday 15 Sep 2009
BECKS TAKES THE GAME BY THE SCRUFF OF THE NECK
David Beckham is back in the headlines for the wrong reasons in America after LA Galaxy's good run of form imploded with a disastrous 6-3 thrashing at the hands of FC Dallas at the weekend. Having fallen 2-0 behind early on in the first half, Galaxy drew level before the break and while they were only 3-2 behind with ten minutes to go, a late collapse in front of their own supporters was followed by a melee after a row between Landon Donovan and David Ferreira.
Beckham tried to break up the altercation as more players piled in, but by grabbing Daniel Hernandez around the throat, he will probably have got himself in more trouble, having already been sent off once since returning to America in the last month. LA head coach Bruce Arena said: "It was nice to see that we had a little bit of fight in us at the end of the game. It would have been nice if we saw some of that in the 90 minutes before that incident."
All in all, it was a miserable return to domestic action for Beckham after his time away with England, but it seems he is already looking ahead to what happens after the end of the MLS season, with World Cup selection high up on his list of priorities. Blackburn Rovers defender Michel Salgado has called upon his former Madrid team-mate to join him on loan at Ewood Park, having spoken to him about life in the North-West of England.
"I spoke to him last week when he was with the national team," said Salgado. "He asked me if I had signed here at Blackburn Rovers for two years. I said I had signed and I live in Manchester in Alderley Edge. He said to me, 'Oh, I have lived there, it is a fantastic place.' He said 'Congratulations for going to Blackburn Rovers because it is a historic club. You have a great man as coach, Sam.'"
When asked whether Beckham could join him there, Salgado said: "I have to speak with him and the club, but maybe we will have to pay him, all the players! I will try!" It still sounds unlikely, of course, with Goldenballs more likely to head back to AC Milan, where they want him back despite the departure of Carlo Ancelotti in the summer. Club director Umberto Gandini has confirmed that the San Siro club are hopeful of arranging another loan deal in the next few weeks
David Beckham is back in the headlines for the wrong reasons in America after LA Galaxy's good run of form imploded with a disastrous 6-3 thrashing at the hands of FC Dallas at the weekend. Having fallen 2-0 behind early on in the first half, Galaxy drew level before the break and while they were only 3-2 behind with ten minutes to go, a late collapse in front of their own supporters was followed by a melee after a row between Landon Donovan and David Ferreira.
Beckham tried to break up the altercation as more players piled in, but by grabbing Daniel Hernandez around the throat, he will probably have got himself in more trouble, having already been sent off once since returning to America in the last month. LA head coach Bruce Arena said: "It was nice to see that we had a little bit of fight in us at the end of the game. It would have been nice if we saw some of that in the 90 minutes before that incident."
All in all, it was a miserable return to domestic action for Beckham after his time away with England, but it seems he is already looking ahead to what happens after the end of the MLS season, with World Cup selection high up on his list of priorities. Blackburn Rovers defender Michel Salgado has called upon his former Madrid team-mate to join him on loan at Ewood Park, having spoken to him about life in the North-West of England.
"I spoke to him last week when he was with the national team," said Salgado. "He asked me if I had signed here at Blackburn Rovers for two years. I said I had signed and I live in Manchester in Alderley Edge. He said to me, 'Oh, I have lived there, it is a fantastic place.' He said 'Congratulations for going to Blackburn Rovers because it is a historic club. You have a great man as coach, Sam.'"
When asked whether Beckham could join him there, Salgado said: "I have to speak with him and the club, but maybe we will have to pay him, all the players! I will try!" It still sounds unlikely, of course, with Goldenballs more likely to head back to AC Milan, where they want him back despite the departure of Carlo Ancelotti in the summer. Club director Umberto Gandini has confirmed that the San Siro club are hopeful of arranging another loan deal in the next few weeks
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Salgado hints at Becks reunion
Tuesday 15 Sep 2009
The 33-year-old Spaniard, who has joined Rovers on a two-year deal, played alongside Beckham for four years at the Bernabeu.
Beckham is set to leave LA Galaxy on loan in January and is believed to prefer a return to the Premier League in the hope that he can earn a place in Fabio Capello's England squad for next summer's World Cup finals in South Africa.
The 33-year-old Spaniard, who has joined Rovers on a two-year deal, played alongside Beckham for four years at the Bernabeu.
Beckham is set to leave LA Galaxy on loan in January and is believed to prefer a return to the Premier League in the hope that he can earn a place in Fabio Capello's England squad for next summer's World Cup finals in South Africa.
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Contrite Wolves duo say sorry
McCarthy opted to drop Elokobi to the substitute's bench for the 3-1 defeat at Ewood Park, while Zubar was excluded from the squad altogether.
Elokobi is aware that he made a big mistake, telling the Express & Star: "I'm very disappointed with everything that happened at the weekend.
"I've said sorry to the gaffer and the rest of the boys and would also like to apologise to the fans as well, because I've let everyone down at the club.
"It's my responsibility as a player to be at the team meeting and I wasn't there so I received my just punishment.
"I've taken the gaffer's decision and all I can do is hold my hands up.
"I'm always in early at the training ground and it's not in my character to be late, but it was one of those things
Elokobi is aware that he made a big mistake, telling the Express & Star: "I'm very disappointed with everything that happened at the weekend.
"I've said sorry to the gaffer and the rest of the boys and would also like to apologise to the fans as well, because I've let everyone down at the club.
"It's my responsibility as a player to be at the team meeting and I wasn't there so I received my just punishment.
"I've taken the gaffer's decision and all I can do is hold my hands up.
"I'm always in early at the training ground and it's not in my character to be late, but it was one of those things
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Adebayor faces two FA charges
The Football Association has charged Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor with violent conduct and improper conduct following the Togo international's erratic behaviour during Saturday's 4-2 win against Arsenal.
Adebayor caught former team-mate Robin van Persie in the face with his boot and, after scoring City's third goal, raced 90 metres to celebrate his goal in front of the Gunners fans.
Adebayor caught former team-mate Robin van Persie in the face with his boot and, after scoring City's third goal, raced 90 metres to celebrate his goal in front of the Gunners fans.
Objects were thrown towards Adebayor by some away fans who were infuriated by the forward's actions.
Last season, Arsenal supporters had accused the 25-year-old of not trying hard enough in some games following his attempts in the summer of 2008 to seal a transfer away from the Emirates Stadium.
A statement on the FA's official website read: "Under the fast-track disciplinary process, Adebayor has been charged with violent conduct following an incident with Robin van Persie, which resulted in the Arsenal player receiving facial injuries.
"Referee Mark Clattenburg has advised the FA that he did not see this incident, but has confirmed that had he done so, he would have sent Adebayor off for violent conduct. The player has until 6pm on Wednesday evening to respond to the charge.
"Adebayor has also been charged with improper conduct following his actions when turning and running the full length of the pitch to celebrate in front of the Arsenal supporters after scoring.
"The Greater Manchester Police have written to the FA with their views on this incident. A separate date will now be arranged for a commission to consider Adebayor's goal celebration."
In the aftermath of Saturday's controversial game, Adebayor had said: "I don't know what I have done wrong to get banned.
"I heard that a steward was injured and I regret that. I have apologised to Robin van Persie. It was silly to run up in front of the Arsenal fans. But these people had been insulting me all game
Last season, Arsenal supporters had accused the 25-year-old of not trying hard enough in some games following his attempts in the summer of 2008 to seal a transfer away from the Emirates Stadium.
A statement on the FA's official website read: "Under the fast-track disciplinary process, Adebayor has been charged with violent conduct following an incident with Robin van Persie, which resulted in the Arsenal player receiving facial injuries.
"Referee Mark Clattenburg has advised the FA that he did not see this incident, but has confirmed that had he done so, he would have sent Adebayor off for violent conduct. The player has until 6pm on Wednesday evening to respond to the charge.
"Adebayor has also been charged with improper conduct following his actions when turning and running the full length of the pitch to celebrate in front of the Arsenal supporters after scoring.
"The Greater Manchester Police have written to the FA with their views on this incident. A separate date will now be arranged for a commission to consider Adebayor's goal celebration."
In the aftermath of Saturday's controversial game, Adebayor had said: "I don't know what I have done wrong to get banned.
"I heard that a steward was injured and I regret that. I have apologised to Robin van Persie. It was silly to run up in front of the Arsenal fans. But these people had been insulting me all game
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Premier League Player Ratings: Stoke 1-2 Chelsea
Thomas Sorensen - 6 - Looked calm and in control of his defence until an innocuous injury sustained while clearing a backpass lead to his substitution just before half-time.Andy Wilkinson - 6.5 - The academy graduate looked at times unable to cope with the Chelsea onslaught, but didn't lose his cool and worked hard to help his fellow defenders.Abdoulaye Faye (c) - 6.5 - Lifted the Britannia with a well-taken early header, but undid much of that good work by allowing Drogba to turn him too easily for Chelsea's equaliser.Robert Huth - 6.5 - The imposing German was solid against his former club, repelling the waves of attacks with determination. Ryan Shawcross - 7 - Shawcross is rapidly developing into a very good Premier League defender. Good in the air and tenacious in the tackle, unfortunately even his best efforts were not good enough to earn a point.Danny Collins - 6 - Interacted well with his new teammates to keep opponents at bay for the majority of the match, but manager Tony Pulis will want to see more from him in future.Rory Delap - 5.5 - Delap's long throws caused Chelsea only mild problems. Made a couple of vital late challenges playing as, effectively, a sixth defender. Dean Whitehead - 5.5 - Worked hard for his side, but along with Whelan and Delap were clearly out-matched in midfield.Glenn Whelan - 5.5 - Took the initiative during the early part of the game as Chelsea failed to stamp their authority on the match. Good delivery from dead ball situations, but faded as the game went on.James Beattie - n/a - Came off after nine minutes, having picked up an injury while trying to take advantage of an errant Ivanovic backpass.Dave Kitson - 5 - Never looked like adding a second goal to his Stoke account, and was largely absent from proceedings. Was replaced by Tuncay.SubstitutesRicardo Fuller - 6 - His trickery was well dealt with by the Chelsea defenders, but the Jamaican put himself about well and competed well in the air. Most of the game was played in the other half, however.Steve Simonsen - 7.5 - First real action was to pick the ball out of the net after a Drogba finish he could do little about. The substitute goalkeeper spent the rest of the match diving spectacularly to frustrate Chelsea, and was desperately unlucky with Malouda's last-gasp strike.Sanli Tuncay - n/a - Came on midway through the second half but only had a few opportunities to show the glimpses of the quality he might bring to the Potters' strikeforce. ChelseaPetr Cech - 5.5 - In general coped admirably with the aerial threat posed by Stoke, but as the Czech keeper found himself in no man's land for Faye's opener he will no doubt be in for some criticism. Such is the life of a top flight goalkeeper.Jose Bosingwa - 6 - Didn't have much to do defensively, but only fleetingly threatened on his frequent forays forward. Branislav Ivanovic - 5 - Wasteful in possession and clumsy in the tackle, Ivanovic looked out of his depth in the centre of defence. John Terry (c) - 7 - Clearly adapting his game to accommodate Ivanovic's deficiencies, Terry was imposing as always in defence. Will be disappointed to have conceded.Ashley Cole - 7.5 - Arguably Chelsea's most threatening player going forward, a lot of what the Blues did well came from the left. John Obi Mikel - 5.5 - Comfortable on the ball and distributed well, but lacked a real cutting edge.Michael Ballack - 5.5 - The German performed unspectacularly in midfield, and did nothing really to distinguish himself throughout the match.Florent Malouda - 6 - Was conspicuous in his absence for much of the match, but Chelsea fans won't mind after the Frenchman popped up late with a dramatic winner.Frank Lampard - 7.5 - Started slowly but grew into the game to become the dominant force in midfield. Exquisite vision and pass for Drogba's goal brought Chelsea back into the match.Salomon Kalou - 5 - Roaming on the right wing to provide width for much of the match, Kalou looked unable to cope with the physical nature of Stoke's defence. With few notable contributions, it was no surprise when the Ivorian was withdrawn on the hour.Didier Drogba - 8 - Outstanding leading the line for the away side. An impressive turn and unstoppable shot brought his side the first goal, and he would have had another but for Simonsen's heroics.SubstitutesNicolas Anelka - 6 - Came on for Kalou and looked more threatening than the youngster, but wasn't presented with a genuine goalscoring opportunity.Michael Essien - 6 - Came on to add power and energy to the midfield, and the Ghanaian ensured the final period of the game was dominated by the away side.Juliano Belletti - n/a - Had little time to make an impact.
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Premier League Player Ratings: Liverpool 4-0 Burnley
Pepe Reina – 7 – Not his busiest afternoon, but everything he did, he did well, and his distribution remains the best in the business. Glen Johnson – 7 – Under extra scrutiny defensively after England critique, but handled the threat of Robbie Blake adequately and offered plenty going forward. Emiliano Insua – 7 – Liverpool fans are very fond of his young Argentine, and he added to his burgeoning reputation with another solid display here. Mature defensively and progressive in possession. Martin Skrtel – 6 – Not at his best today, and may have been punished had Burnley possessed more firepower. Caught in possession a few times and misjudged a couple of high balls. Improved after the break though. Jamie Carragher – 7 – Solid and dependable game from Liverpool’s rock, Carragher mopped up everything he needed to and is still one of the best and most consistent defenders in the game Lucas Leiva – 8 – Described by Rafa Benitez post match as “our key player today”, the Brazilian produced a commanding performance in central midfield, kept the ball superbly and offered excellent support going both ways. One of his best games for the club. Steven Gerrard – 8 – Started from a deeper position, but his attacking urges were not diminished. Drove Liverpool forward with his energy and desire, created a goal superbly for Benayoun, and could have had a couple himself. Albert Riera – 6 – On the receiving end of a Benitez verbal volley during a patchy first half, the Spaniard did improve after the break, but was a peripheral figure as his peers took centre stage. Yossi Benayoun – 9 – Quiet first fifteen minutes erupted into life with a beautifully taken first goal, from then on the Israeli dominated the game with his touch, movement and quality, thoroughly deserved his hat-trick, and might have had another goal were it not for a dubious offside call. Dirk Kuyt – 8 – Deployed centrally, the Dutchman set the tone with his work ethic and link up play. Showed his poacher’s instinct to grab the all-important second goal, and was menacing all afternoon. Fernando Torres – 6 – Found life tough against the physical presence of Andre Bikey & Clarke Carlisle, but kept them on their toes with clever movement and purposeful runs. Involved heavily in the counter attack for the second goal, and on another day might have scored himself. SUBS Phillipp Degen – 6 – Spent most of his game going forward, as Burnley were spent as an attacking force by the time he came on, but the Swiss is very much a deputy at this time. Andriy Voronin – 7 – The good and the bad from the Ukrainian. The good being his smart assist for Benayoun’s third goal, and a lovely backheel from which Gerrard probably should have scored, the bad being a horrible miss when put clean through late on. David Ngog – 6 – Like Lucas, has beefed up over the summer and looks a lot more confident. Not much time to impress here, but expect to see more of the Frenchman this season. BURNLEY Brian Jensen – 5 – “The Beast” is a cult hero at Burnley, but he let himself down today by spilling a number of shots, one of which was punished by Kuyt. Did make a pair of saves to deny Gerrard which were noteworthy, but not his best day today. Tyrone Mears – 6 – Lively early on raiding down the right, but was effectively stymied by Riera & Insua, and faded away as quickly as his team did. Stephen Jordan – 5 – Given a torrid time by Benayoun, the former Manchester City man was eventually booked for hauling him down, and will not wish to view a repeat of this particular contest. Andre Bikey – 5 – A giant of a man, Bikey is content to head away high balls all day, but when Liverpool played a passing game, he came unstuck, and was exposed cruelly in the second half. Clarke Carlisle – 6 – Interesting early tussle with Torres, in which he held his own, but was powerless to stop the Red tide after the first goal went in. Wade Elliott – 5 – Has been rated-highly so far this season but today he was anonymous as the Clarets struggled to get their attacking players on the ball. Robbie Blake – 5 – Shackled well by Johnson, interesting to note his angry reaction to being substituted. In truth he had done little of note during his time on the pitch. Graham Alexander – 5 – Very much the leader of this team with his vocalism, but had a day to forget as he spent most of it chasing Steven Gerrard’s shadow. Chris McCann – 5 – Like Alexander, was painfully exposed by quality opposition. Probably the one player on Burnley’s team who looked out of his depth today. Martin Paterson – 6 – Lively early on, forcing a save from Reina with a powerful drive, but faded away and was anonymous in the second half. Steven Fletcher – 6 – Switched between wide midfield and centre forward, with minimal success. Looks more suited to a forward role, and there were some promising signs in his strength and hold up play. SUBS Chris Eagles – 5 – Game was over when he came on, and he had very little influence, dragging a half chance well wide. David Nugent – 6 – Booed on his arrival by Liverpool fans, the debutant showed a few glimpses of what can be expected with some intelligent runs into the channel and a good work rate, almost created a shooting chance for himself late on but was hustled out.
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Birmingham City 0 Aston Villa 1: match report
Read a full report of the Premier League match between Birmingham City and Aston Villa at St Andrew's, Sunday Sept 13, 2009, kick-off 12.00 BST.
By Sandy Macaskill at St Andrew'sPublished: 2:00PM BST 13 Sep 2009
They say that derbies are the great leveller. At least, that is what Birmingham City manager Alex McLeish had been hoping.
But the Premier League reality is that the cream usually rises to the top eventually, regardless of the circumstances, and even if it took 85 minutes for Aston Villa to break the deadlock on this occasion, courtesy of Gabby Agbonlahor, they have once again secured the Birmingham bragging rights.
The last time these two sides played it was a 5-1 goal-fest at Villa Park, but make no mistake: St Andrew’s was treated to nothing of the sort this afternoon. In fact, this match was at times so ugly it should have been played with the lights off.
After 45 minutes the most entertaining episode had come when the St Andrew’s ground staff turned the sprinklers on some startled Villa substitutes who had ventured onto the pitch at half-time to practice.
In the past, the Second City derby as it is known, has had its fair share of belligerence, and it was suitably vitriolic in the stands.
But anyone who had come expecting to see all that testosterone seep onto the pitch would have left disappointed. A few solid tackles in the opening exchanges apart, there was nothing to get overly excited about. It was the second half before Howard Webb had to reach for a card.
Fittingly, it had been Agbonlahor who caused the early trouble. In the seventh minute, the forward muscled Teemu Tainio out on the edge of the area, cutting the ball inside to James Milner, who took a touch to set himself up, but shot wide.
Milner, clearly invigorated from having spent the last week with the national side, had another chance in the 21st minute, Agbonlahor once again in the thick of things.
The striker broke down the right, squaring the ball to Milner who had made a beeline to the penalty spot. Had the winger made a decent connection with the ball it would surely have been a goal, but he didn’t, and the chance went begging.
Ten minutes later it was Birmingham’s turn, Garry O’Connor flicking a ball through to Lee Bowyer, who had no one with him in support. Left with no other option, Bowyer fired goalwards, Brad Friedel parrying behind his own goal.
The corner came to little directly, but Kevin Fahey picked up on a loose ball and sent a long range shot fizzing unchecked through a gormless Villa defence, just wide of the post.
The second half started as the first had finished: scrappy, nothing special. Sensing – one can’t guess how – that the match required a shift in direction, Martin O’Neill brought on John Carew, and almost immediately Steve Sidwell had a header saved from point-blank range by Joe Hart, after Milner had swung in a cross from the left sideline.
Seven minutes later Ashley Young stroked a free kick into the box, which was headed back by Carew to Agbonlahor to head uncontested into the net.
By Sandy Macaskill at St Andrew'sPublished: 2:00PM BST 13 Sep 2009
They say that derbies are the great leveller. At least, that is what Birmingham City manager Alex McLeish had been hoping.
But the Premier League reality is that the cream usually rises to the top eventually, regardless of the circumstances, and even if it took 85 minutes for Aston Villa to break the deadlock on this occasion, courtesy of Gabby Agbonlahor, they have once again secured the Birmingham bragging rights.
The last time these two sides played it was a 5-1 goal-fest at Villa Park, but make no mistake: St Andrew’s was treated to nothing of the sort this afternoon. In fact, this match was at times so ugly it should have been played with the lights off.
After 45 minutes the most entertaining episode had come when the St Andrew’s ground staff turned the sprinklers on some startled Villa substitutes who had ventured onto the pitch at half-time to practice.
In the past, the Second City derby as it is known, has had its fair share of belligerence, and it was suitably vitriolic in the stands.
But anyone who had come expecting to see all that testosterone seep onto the pitch would have left disappointed. A few solid tackles in the opening exchanges apart, there was nothing to get overly excited about. It was the second half before Howard Webb had to reach for a card.
Fittingly, it had been Agbonlahor who caused the early trouble. In the seventh minute, the forward muscled Teemu Tainio out on the edge of the area, cutting the ball inside to James Milner, who took a touch to set himself up, but shot wide.
Milner, clearly invigorated from having spent the last week with the national side, had another chance in the 21st minute, Agbonlahor once again in the thick of things.
The striker broke down the right, squaring the ball to Milner who had made a beeline to the penalty spot. Had the winger made a decent connection with the ball it would surely have been a goal, but he didn’t, and the chance went begging.
Ten minutes later it was Birmingham’s turn, Garry O’Connor flicking a ball through to Lee Bowyer, who had no one with him in support. Left with no other option, Bowyer fired goalwards, Brad Friedel parrying behind his own goal.
The corner came to little directly, but Kevin Fahey picked up on a loose ball and sent a long range shot fizzing unchecked through a gormless Villa defence, just wide of the post.
The second half started as the first had finished: scrappy, nothing special. Sensing – one can’t guess how – that the match required a shift in direction, Martin O’Neill brought on John Carew, and almost immediately Steve Sidwell had a header saved from point-blank range by Joe Hart, after Milner had swung in a cross from the left sideline.
Seven minutes later Ashley Young stroked a free kick into the box, which was headed back by Carew to Agbonlahor to head uncontested into the net.
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FA to look at Adebayor conduct in win over Arsenal
The Football Association is to examine Emmanuel Adebayor's extravagant goal celebration against former club Arsenal and his challenge that left Robin van Persie with a facial wound during the Gunners' 4-2 loss to Manchester City.
Adebayor, who joined City in July after being a target for Arsenal fans during his final season in north London, ran the length of the pitch in Saturday's Premier League game to celebrate in front of visiting Gunners supporters after scoring City's third goal.
Furious Arsenal fans hurled objects onto the field and had to be kept under control. Police said one steward was knocked unconscious.
Earlier, Adebayor's boot caught the head of Van Persie, leaving the Arsenal forward with a cut to the face which the Dutch star said was the result of a "malicious stamp".
FA chief executive Ian Watmore told BBC radio on Sunday: "Our governance team will take a good look at both of the incidents that have been highlighted and will come to the media with the answers early next week."
Watmore was clearly disappointed by the goal celebration, for which the Togolese strike was booked.
"I was pretty unimpressed really because the problems between the Arsenal fans and Adebayor are well documented, and he ran the whole length of the field to celebrate," Watmore said. "So I think we're going to have a good close look at that one on Monday when we see it properly in the cold light of day.
"I thought the stewards did a great job of calming the situation down and it was to Manchester City's credit nothing worse happened."
Watmore would not be drawn, though, on the possible extent of any sanctions against the player.
"The punishments are the decision of the individual commission, if we get that far," he said.
Adebayor had a troubled end to his spell as an Arsenal player, with supporters accusing him of a lack of loyalty when he was linked with other clubs. Two seasons ago, he also had a flare-up with Arsenal teammate Nicklas Bendtner during a 5-1 League Cup loss to Tottenham.
Interviewed after Saturday's game in Manchester, Adebayor apologized for his goal celebration.
"To be honest, I'm very sorry for all this," he said. "Sometimes, the emotion takes over. That's what happened. I was very happy to score the goal.
"Before the game, people have been saying and writing things and the emotions took over. People who love me and know me know how I behave."
Van Persie accused Adebayor, his former strike partner, of stamping.
"I am sad and disappointed by my former teammate Emmanuel Adebayor's mindless and malicious stamp on me," the Dutch forward said. "He set out to hurt me and I feel lucky that I have not suffered a greater injury. The contact was only centimeters from my eye.
"I knew he was aiming for a collision because he changed the angle of his body to allow contact to be made. He moved backwards when his natural momentum would have taken him forward. I find that deeply disrespectful."
Adebayor, who joined City in July after being a target for Arsenal fans during his final season in north London, ran the length of the pitch in Saturday's Premier League game to celebrate in front of visiting Gunners supporters after scoring City's third goal.
Furious Arsenal fans hurled objects onto the field and had to be kept under control. Police said one steward was knocked unconscious.
Earlier, Adebayor's boot caught the head of Van Persie, leaving the Arsenal forward with a cut to the face which the Dutch star said was the result of a "malicious stamp".
FA chief executive Ian Watmore told BBC radio on Sunday: "Our governance team will take a good look at both of the incidents that have been highlighted and will come to the media with the answers early next week."
Watmore was clearly disappointed by the goal celebration, for which the Togolese strike was booked.
"I was pretty unimpressed really because the problems between the Arsenal fans and Adebayor are well documented, and he ran the whole length of the field to celebrate," Watmore said. "So I think we're going to have a good close look at that one on Monday when we see it properly in the cold light of day.
"I thought the stewards did a great job of calming the situation down and it was to Manchester City's credit nothing worse happened."
Watmore would not be drawn, though, on the possible extent of any sanctions against the player.
"The punishments are the decision of the individual commission, if we get that far," he said.
Adebayor had a troubled end to his spell as an Arsenal player, with supporters accusing him of a lack of loyalty when he was linked with other clubs. Two seasons ago, he also had a flare-up with Arsenal teammate Nicklas Bendtner during a 5-1 League Cup loss to Tottenham.
Interviewed after Saturday's game in Manchester, Adebayor apologized for his goal celebration.
"To be honest, I'm very sorry for all this," he said. "Sometimes, the emotion takes over. That's what happened. I was very happy to score the goal.
"Before the game, people have been saying and writing things and the emotions took over. People who love me and know me know how I behave."
Van Persie accused Adebayor, his former strike partner, of stamping.
"I am sad and disappointed by my former teammate Emmanuel Adebayor's mindless and malicious stamp on me," the Dutch forward said. "He set out to hurt me and I feel lucky that I have not suffered a greater injury. The contact was only centimeters from my eye.
"I knew he was aiming for a collision because he changed the angle of his body to allow contact to be made. He moved backwards when his natural momentum would have taken him forward. I find that deeply disrespectful."
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Man City, Chelsea maintain winning starts in Premier League season
LONDON — Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor scored against former club Arsenal on Saturday in a 4-2 victory that maintained the expensively revamped squad's winning start to the Premier League season.
While City made it four wins out of four, the Gunners were condemned to a second straight loss in Manchester, having been beaten by United before the international break.
"Emmanuel was outstanding today," City manager Mark Hughes said. "He is an outstanding talent and the best in the world at what he does."
Anderson scored his first Manchester United goal as the champions came from behind to win 3-1 at Tottenham, while Florent Malouda's stoppage-time goal saw Chelsea rally for a 2-1 win at Stoke.
After opening the season with five wins, Chelsea has a three-point lead over United, City and Spurs at the top of the standings.
Liverpool is three points adrift of the trio, who are split by goal difference, after Yossi Benayoun scored a hat trick in a 4-0 rout of Burnley.
"To be top of the league is very important - we have good confidence in our play and a very good atmosphere in the dressing room," Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti said. "We are doing very well and want to continue in this good position for as long as we can. We have a very good squad."
Adebayor and Kolo Toure appeared for City against Arsenal for the first time since their big-money off-season transfers from the Gunners. Adebayor was loudly booed by visiting fans as Arsenal dominated early on, but it was the Togo striker's new side that took the lead.
Micah Richards met Gareth Barry's cross with a looping header that hit the post but goalkeeper Manuel Almunia diverted back into his own net.
Arsenal was more of a threat after the break when Tomas Rosicky replaced Denilson, and the Czech international collected Bacary Sagna's short pass and fed the ball calmly through to Robin van Persie to equalize in the 62nd minute.
City was back in front 12 minutes later when Richards squared to Craig Bellamy, who swept the ball home.
Adebayor was booked after his headed goal for racing the full length of the field to celebrate right in front of the Arsenal fans.
"I'm very sorry for all this. Sometimes, the emotion takes over," Adebayor said. "I was very happy to score the goal. Before the game, people have been saying and writing things and the emotions took over. People who love me and know me know how I behave."
City's lead survived a frantic conclusion which saw Shaun Wright-Phillips score a fourth before Rosicky pulled one back.
A mistake by Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech allowed Stoke to take the lead in the 32nd minute. Cech was stranded when Abdoulaye Faye's header from Glenn Whelan's cross looped over the Czech Republic international.
But Didier Drogba struck into the top corner just before the break to equalize and Malouda left it late in the second half to produce the winner.
At White Hart Lane, United was trailing inside a minute after Jermain Defoe's acrobatic overhead kick. But Ryan Giggs curled in a free kick to level for the visitors and Anderson scored before half time to end his two-year wait for a United goal.
Despite the Red Devils playing more than 30 minutes with 10 men after Paul Scholes was sent off, Wayne Rooney was able to add a third in the 78th from an energetic counterattack.
At Anfield, Benayoun put Liverpool in front in the 27th minute, chasing a pass from Glen Johnson and racing past Graham Alexander before sidefooting home.
And when Benayoun's shot was parried by goalkeeper Brian Jensen, Dirk Kuyt slotted home the loose ball to put the Reds on course for their second straight win.
After the break, Steven Gerrard set up Benayoun to tap in the third before substitute Andriy Voronin played the Israeli in for his third and Liverpool's fourth with eight minutes to go.
"It was a good day for me but the most important is the three points and we played some good football," Benayoun said. "I started off on the right but Rafa told me to come in and work in between the lines."
Also Saturday, Darren Bent scored twice as sixth-placed Sunderland beat Hull 4-1, Blackburn won its first home game of the season by defeating Wolverhampton 3-1 and Hugo Rodallega's goal gave Wigan a 1-0 victory over West Ham.
Bolton earned its first points by winning 3-2 at Portsmouth, leaving the home side at the bottom of the table with zero points.
While City made it four wins out of four, the Gunners were condemned to a second straight loss in Manchester, having been beaten by United before the international break.
"Emmanuel was outstanding today," City manager Mark Hughes said. "He is an outstanding talent and the best in the world at what he does."
Anderson scored his first Manchester United goal as the champions came from behind to win 3-1 at Tottenham, while Florent Malouda's stoppage-time goal saw Chelsea rally for a 2-1 win at Stoke.
After opening the season with five wins, Chelsea has a three-point lead over United, City and Spurs at the top of the standings.
Liverpool is three points adrift of the trio, who are split by goal difference, after Yossi Benayoun scored a hat trick in a 4-0 rout of Burnley.
"To be top of the league is very important - we have good confidence in our play and a very good atmosphere in the dressing room," Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti said. "We are doing very well and want to continue in this good position for as long as we can. We have a very good squad."
Adebayor and Kolo Toure appeared for City against Arsenal for the first time since their big-money off-season transfers from the Gunners. Adebayor was loudly booed by visiting fans as Arsenal dominated early on, but it was the Togo striker's new side that took the lead.
Micah Richards met Gareth Barry's cross with a looping header that hit the post but goalkeeper Manuel Almunia diverted back into his own net.
Arsenal was more of a threat after the break when Tomas Rosicky replaced Denilson, and the Czech international collected Bacary Sagna's short pass and fed the ball calmly through to Robin van Persie to equalize in the 62nd minute.
City was back in front 12 minutes later when Richards squared to Craig Bellamy, who swept the ball home.
Adebayor was booked after his headed goal for racing the full length of the field to celebrate right in front of the Arsenal fans.
"I'm very sorry for all this. Sometimes, the emotion takes over," Adebayor said. "I was very happy to score the goal. Before the game, people have been saying and writing things and the emotions took over. People who love me and know me know how I behave."
City's lead survived a frantic conclusion which saw Shaun Wright-Phillips score a fourth before Rosicky pulled one back.
A mistake by Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech allowed Stoke to take the lead in the 32nd minute. Cech was stranded when Abdoulaye Faye's header from Glenn Whelan's cross looped over the Czech Republic international.
But Didier Drogba struck into the top corner just before the break to equalize and Malouda left it late in the second half to produce the winner.
At White Hart Lane, United was trailing inside a minute after Jermain Defoe's acrobatic overhead kick. But Ryan Giggs curled in a free kick to level for the visitors and Anderson scored before half time to end his two-year wait for a United goal.
Despite the Red Devils playing more than 30 minutes with 10 men after Paul Scholes was sent off, Wayne Rooney was able to add a third in the 78th from an energetic counterattack.
At Anfield, Benayoun put Liverpool in front in the 27th minute, chasing a pass from Glen Johnson and racing past Graham Alexander before sidefooting home.
And when Benayoun's shot was parried by goalkeeper Brian Jensen, Dirk Kuyt slotted home the loose ball to put the Reds on course for their second straight win.
After the break, Steven Gerrard set up Benayoun to tap in the third before substitute Andriy Voronin played the Israeli in for his third and Liverpool's fourth with eight minutes to go.
"It was a good day for me but the most important is the three points and we played some good football," Benayoun said. "I started off on the right but Rafa told me to come in and work in between the lines."
Also Saturday, Darren Bent scored twice as sixth-placed Sunderland beat Hull 4-1, Blackburn won its first home game of the season by defeating Wolverhampton 3-1 and Hugo Rodallega's goal gave Wigan a 1-0 victory over West Ham.
Bolton earned its first points by winning 3-2 at Portsmouth, leaving the home side at the bottom of the table with zero points.
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Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City Win
Manchester United and Chelsea rallied to victories, and Manchester City’s revamped team passed its first big Premier League test against Arsenal. Midfielder Anderson, from Brazil, ended his two-year wait for a goal with United, which won, 3-1, at Tottenham. Chelsea won at Stoke, 2-1, on Florent Malouda’s goal in stoppage time. Emmanuel Adebayor scored against Arsenal, his former club, in a 4-2 win.
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Ten-man United burst Spurs' bubble
Four days after he gave a hint that he has what it takes to succeed David Beckham on the right side of the England midfield, Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon fluffed his chance to confirm he is the real deal as the Premier League champions ran riot at White Hart Lane.
No one has poured more passion into the England cause over the course of the last decade than Beckham, yet the emergence of Lennon as a genuine pretender to his crown means his days sporting the No.7 shirt he cherishes more than any other may now be coming to an end.
Lennon's thrilling display in Wednesday night's 5-1 World Cup qualifying demolition of Croatia was a clear sign that the Tottenham winger is ready to convert the potential he has long displayed into something more tangible, yet this 90 minutes of anonymity suggested the 22-year-old is a long way from being the finished product.
Tottenham's newest superstar was always likely to be presented with a firm test of his credentials as the reigning Premier League champions rolled into town and while his energy was never an issue, this was to be the day when the true Premier League wing wizard showed him who was boss.
The veteran Ryan Giggs was clearly the outstanding wide player on show in this game, yet Lennon should not despair as this was the afternoon when United confirmed they remain a major force to be reckoned with in the Premier League. Cristiano Ronaldo? On this evidence, United have enough class to live without him.
This game swung with thrilling uncertainty from the off. Jermain Defoe scoring a goal that is certain to go down as one of the Premier League's best this season as his bicycle kick gave Spurs a lead after just 47 seconds. It was a moment of sublime class from the in-form striker.
Tottenham fans hardly needed any motivation to raise their voices after their side's flawless start to the season and it quickly became clear that the scoring would not end there, with these two sides refusing to take a backwards step as they piled into each other with real relish.
Any notion that the international break had taken the edge off Spurs or United was banished as the pace was set at an electrifying level and barely dropped in a sensational first half of action, yet defending was not a priority for a Tottenham side determined to go toe to toe with United.
It proved to be a flawed plan as United's chin is rarely shaky in a straight battle of raw abilities and with Tottenham looking far too open and failing to get the ball to creator in chief Lennon, the red tide eventually washed over them.
Berbatov's tumble on the edge of the box may have been a little theatrical, but there was little doubt that Wilson Palacios was rash with his two-footed lunge after 24 minutes. The legendary Giggs kept up his record of scoring in each Premier League season since 1992 by curling a delicious free-kick equaliser.
Anderson's thumping goal five minutes before the break edged United ahead in a first half notable for an improved performance by United striker Dimitar Berbatov. Jeered to the rafters on his return to White Hart Lane, the Bulgarian responded with a classy display that helped United regain their composure after that early setback inflicted by Defoe.
The half-time whistle gave all packed into this enduringly atmospheric arena a chance to draw breath and reflect on a first half that had passed by the focus of our attention. Lennon would have fancied his chances of getting involved in a game as open as this, but it just wouldn't happen for him.
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp encouraged captain Robbie Keane to drift into a central role for the second half, with the experiment of playing him on the left flank clearly not working. He was clearly hoping the wide threat would still come if Lennon could be brought into the fray.
The chances continued to flow as substitute Jermaine Jenas was denied by a stunning save from Ben Foster, before Crouch crashed a header against the bar from the corner that followed, but Spurs had lost their verve and not even a red card for Paul Scholes could revive them.
Scholes' curious inability to tackle has been one of his trademarks down the years and while he may have been unfortunate to pick up a second caution in an unavoidable clash with Tom Huddlestone, his earlier 'assault' on Defoe's leg could have resulted in a straight red.
Tottenham failed to make the most of their numerical advantage and with Lennon continuing to do a good impression of the invisible man, it was the brilliant Wayne Rooney who scored next as he established an impregnable 3-1 lead for United 12 minutes from time
It was always going to be a hard game because Tottenham are in such great form and they got off to a fantastic start which made life difficult for us," United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told ESPN. "We needed to settle in the game and once we did that, I thought we played very well.
"The referee got it wrong with the red card. It was a bad sending off and I didn't see anything in it at all. I think he was sent off because his name was Paul Scholes, simple as that."
Spurs boss Redknapp accepted his team were beaten by the better side, but tried to find a silver lining in his first defeat of the season. "United are a top class outfit and they had a bit too much for us," conceded Redknapp. "We never really got going after that fantastic opening goal, but we will keep things in perspective. 12 points from five games is still a great start to the season."
Passing judgment on a player over 90 minutes is always an inconclusive test of his credentials, but the ease with which United took the sting out of the Lennon threat on this balmy September afternoon in North London suggests he may not be the complete answer to England's right side dilemma.
Lennon may prove to be the natural successor to Beckham in an England team looking forward to the World Cup finals next summer with real optimism, but he has to display consistency of performance against top quality opposition each and every week if he is to live up to his billing.
No one has poured more passion into the England cause over the course of the last decade than Beckham, yet the emergence of Lennon as a genuine pretender to his crown means his days sporting the No.7 shirt he cherishes more than any other may now be coming to an end.
Lennon's thrilling display in Wednesday night's 5-1 World Cup qualifying demolition of Croatia was a clear sign that the Tottenham winger is ready to convert the potential he has long displayed into something more tangible, yet this 90 minutes of anonymity suggested the 22-year-old is a long way from being the finished product.
Tottenham's newest superstar was always likely to be presented with a firm test of his credentials as the reigning Premier League champions rolled into town and while his energy was never an issue, this was to be the day when the true Premier League wing wizard showed him who was boss.
The veteran Ryan Giggs was clearly the outstanding wide player on show in this game, yet Lennon should not despair as this was the afternoon when United confirmed they remain a major force to be reckoned with in the Premier League. Cristiano Ronaldo? On this evidence, United have enough class to live without him.
This game swung with thrilling uncertainty from the off. Jermain Defoe scoring a goal that is certain to go down as one of the Premier League's best this season as his bicycle kick gave Spurs a lead after just 47 seconds. It was a moment of sublime class from the in-form striker.
Tottenham fans hardly needed any motivation to raise their voices after their side's flawless start to the season and it quickly became clear that the scoring would not end there, with these two sides refusing to take a backwards step as they piled into each other with real relish.
Any notion that the international break had taken the edge off Spurs or United was banished as the pace was set at an electrifying level and barely dropped in a sensational first half of action, yet defending was not a priority for a Tottenham side determined to go toe to toe with United.
It proved to be a flawed plan as United's chin is rarely shaky in a straight battle of raw abilities and with Tottenham looking far too open and failing to get the ball to creator in chief Lennon, the red tide eventually washed over them.
Berbatov's tumble on the edge of the box may have been a little theatrical, but there was little doubt that Wilson Palacios was rash with his two-footed lunge after 24 minutes. The legendary Giggs kept up his record of scoring in each Premier League season since 1992 by curling a delicious free-kick equaliser.
Anderson's thumping goal five minutes before the break edged United ahead in a first half notable for an improved performance by United striker Dimitar Berbatov. Jeered to the rafters on his return to White Hart Lane, the Bulgarian responded with a classy display that helped United regain their composure after that early setback inflicted by Defoe.
The half-time whistle gave all packed into this enduringly atmospheric arena a chance to draw breath and reflect on a first half that had passed by the focus of our attention. Lennon would have fancied his chances of getting involved in a game as open as this, but it just wouldn't happen for him.
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp encouraged captain Robbie Keane to drift into a central role for the second half, with the experiment of playing him on the left flank clearly not working. He was clearly hoping the wide threat would still come if Lennon could be brought into the fray.
The chances continued to flow as substitute Jermaine Jenas was denied by a stunning save from Ben Foster, before Crouch crashed a header against the bar from the corner that followed, but Spurs had lost their verve and not even a red card for Paul Scholes could revive them.
Scholes' curious inability to tackle has been one of his trademarks down the years and while he may have been unfortunate to pick up a second caution in an unavoidable clash with Tom Huddlestone, his earlier 'assault' on Defoe's leg could have resulted in a straight red.
Tottenham failed to make the most of their numerical advantage and with Lennon continuing to do a good impression of the invisible man, it was the brilliant Wayne Rooney who scored next as he established an impregnable 3-1 lead for United 12 minutes from time
It was always going to be a hard game because Tottenham are in such great form and they got off to a fantastic start which made life difficult for us," United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told ESPN. "We needed to settle in the game and once we did that, I thought we played very well.
"The referee got it wrong with the red card. It was a bad sending off and I didn't see anything in it at all. I think he was sent off because his name was Paul Scholes, simple as that."
Spurs boss Redknapp accepted his team were beaten by the better side, but tried to find a silver lining in his first defeat of the season. "United are a top class outfit and they had a bit too much for us," conceded Redknapp. "We never really got going after that fantastic opening goal, but we will keep things in perspective. 12 points from five games is still a great start to the season."
Passing judgment on a player over 90 minutes is always an inconclusive test of his credentials, but the ease with which United took the sting out of the Lennon threat on this balmy September afternoon in North London suggests he may not be the complete answer to England's right side dilemma.
Lennon may prove to be the natural successor to Beckham in an England team looking forward to the World Cup finals next summer with real optimism, but he has to display consistency of performance against top quality opposition each and every week if he is to live up to his billing.
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Van Persie accuses Adebayor of "malicious stamp"
Robin Van Persie has accused former Arsenal team-mate Emmanuel Adebayor of deliberately attempting to injure him - and claimed the Manchester City striker came within centimetres of stamping on his eye
Although neither manager said they saw the second-half incident when it happened during City's 4-2 win over the Gunners today, TV replays did not make pleasant viewing for Adebayor.
With Van Persie on the ground, Adebayor certainly appeared to make a lunging movement as he tried to regain his balance, with the Dutchman sustaining a cut to the side of his head that required treatment.
Referee Mark Clattenburg did not appear to get a clear view either given the fact he waved play on, only calling for treatment when Van Persie failed to get back to his feet.
It was anticipated the Football Association would act anyway but, if there was any doubt over their involvement, there is none now after Van Persie launched a bitter attack on the Togo forward.
"I am sad and disappointed by my former team-mate Emmanuel Adebayor's mindless and malicious stamp on me,'' said Van Persie. "He set out to hurt me and I feel lucky that I have not suffered a greater injury. The contact was only centimetres from my eye.
"I knew he was aiming for a collision because he changed the angle of his body to allow contact to be made. He moved backwards when his natural momentum would have taken him forward. I find that deeply disrespectful.''
Van Persie has shown a volatility himself in the past. However, given his statement came three hours after this afternoon's contest finished, his thoughts betray a deeper anger.
City manager Mark Hughes described Adebayor as "an emotional guy'' afterwards in relation to a separate incident, for which the striker has already apologised.
It seems Van Persie does not share the same opinion.
"We are both professional footballers and I know that the game is physical. I, too, have made hard and sometimes mis-timed challenges but never with the intention of hurting an opponent,'' he continued.
"I have not received an apology from him, there were no words exchanged afterwards. He had his own agenda today and that is bad for football. It's bad for the game we all love.
"He has shown a real lack of class today, to me and the fans. We do not hide from the disappointment of losing the match but I need to speak out about his behaviour.''
The FA are likely to take a dim view of the method Van Persie has chosen to air his feelings. But Adebayor seems certain to face some kind of sanction over the ugly incident.
He may have been called to account anyway, having raced the full length of the field to celebrate right in front of the Arsenal fans after scoring the decisive third goal this afternoon.
The £25m striker had been barracked throughout by the Gunners supporters, who accused Adebayor of showing a lack of loyalty during his last few months at the Emirates Stadium when a fall-out with Nicklas Bendtner escalated to such an extent the pair clashed on the field during a League Cup tie with Tottenham.
Even Adebayor admitted he was wrong to celebrate in such a manner and offered his apology immediately afterwards.
"To be honest, I'm very sorry for all this,'' he said. "Sometimes, the emotion takes over. That's what happened. I was very happy to score the goal. Before the game, people have been saying and writing things and the emotions took over. People who love me and know me know how I behave.''
Although neither manager said they saw the second-half incident when it happened during City's 4-2 win over the Gunners today, TV replays did not make pleasant viewing for Adebayor.
With Van Persie on the ground, Adebayor certainly appeared to make a lunging movement as he tried to regain his balance, with the Dutchman sustaining a cut to the side of his head that required treatment.
Referee Mark Clattenburg did not appear to get a clear view either given the fact he waved play on, only calling for treatment when Van Persie failed to get back to his feet.
It was anticipated the Football Association would act anyway but, if there was any doubt over their involvement, there is none now after Van Persie launched a bitter attack on the Togo forward.
"I am sad and disappointed by my former team-mate Emmanuel Adebayor's mindless and malicious stamp on me,'' said Van Persie. "He set out to hurt me and I feel lucky that I have not suffered a greater injury. The contact was only centimetres from my eye.
"I knew he was aiming for a collision because he changed the angle of his body to allow contact to be made. He moved backwards when his natural momentum would have taken him forward. I find that deeply disrespectful.''
Van Persie has shown a volatility himself in the past. However, given his statement came three hours after this afternoon's contest finished, his thoughts betray a deeper anger.
City manager Mark Hughes described Adebayor as "an emotional guy'' afterwards in relation to a separate incident, for which the striker has already apologised.
It seems Van Persie does not share the same opinion.
"We are both professional footballers and I know that the game is physical. I, too, have made hard and sometimes mis-timed challenges but never with the intention of hurting an opponent,'' he continued.
"I have not received an apology from him, there were no words exchanged afterwards. He had his own agenda today and that is bad for football. It's bad for the game we all love.
"He has shown a real lack of class today, to me and the fans. We do not hide from the disappointment of losing the match but I need to speak out about his behaviour.''
The FA are likely to take a dim view of the method Van Persie has chosen to air his feelings. But Adebayor seems certain to face some kind of sanction over the ugly incident.
He may have been called to account anyway, having raced the full length of the field to celebrate right in front of the Arsenal fans after scoring the decisive third goal this afternoon.
The £25m striker had been barracked throughout by the Gunners supporters, who accused Adebayor of showing a lack of loyalty during his last few months at the Emirates Stadium when a fall-out with Nicklas Bendtner escalated to such an extent the pair clashed on the field during a League Cup tie with Tottenham.
Even Adebayor admitted he was wrong to celebrate in such a manner and offered his apology immediately afterwards.
"To be honest, I'm very sorry for all this,'' he said. "Sometimes, the emotion takes over. That's what happened. I was very happy to score the goal. Before the game, people have been saying and writing things and the emotions took over. People who love me and know me know how I behave.''
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Sports and Recreation
You might be too old now to take an active part in any of the sport of your choice. Maybe you had always enjoyed being a spectator and cheer your favorite team from the stands. Whatever the reason might be for you not being out there on the field, there is another way to actively and enthusiastically participate in the sport of your choice and even make lots of money from it. Sports betting picks have changed the manner in which the common man understands and relates to a game. There are many top professional sports betting people and groups available that can assist you in making the right sports betting picks. There are numerous sports that have captured the fancy of the people all across the globe. Now it is your turn to make a handsome amount of money from your favorite sport by making a bet on it. It is of no consequence that whether you want to get involved in MMA sports betting picks, college football picks, NCAA football betting picks, or NFL sports betting picks. There are many sites on the web that can assist you in making the right decision regarding the bet that you want to place. The experts on these sites have years of experience and a whole lot of important contacts that can help you in making your decision.All that you are required to do is to log onto these websites and gain an extensive help regarding the football betting tips or any other top professional sports betting tips. So just go ahead and make as much money as you want using the help of these experts.
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Muay Thai camps: the anvil of martial arts
Muay Thai camps are located not just in the mother country of the sport, but also all around the world, ranging from south East Asia to the United States. Many countries have adopted the sport. The camps made for the sport are preferably at some sites which are close to nature, because it is believed that it is in this kind of surroundings that the mind is fresh and one can learn fighting techniques well. Muay Thai camp is meant to make you versatile with the art of fighting. Mainly emphasizing on the hand based version of martial arts fighting, the camps also provide training in some other techniques also. These methods are scaled from person to person and according to levels. Amateurs learn this for the sake of self defense and fitness while professionals are in the hunt for more to improve their fighting tactics.The training camps in general, compose of following activities:For beginners, the sessions could be offered upon:1. Weight training2. Yoga related sessions3. Training to lose eight4. Counseling related to health 5. Classes over nutritionAnd for advanced levels, expertise could be done on boxing techniques and MMA. In other words the camps are packages for each and every kind of person. The camps although sounding to be really strict, however are quite friendly to the guests. The camps provide many facilities to the guests residing, like:1. Proper meals to which the guests are supposed to live upon2. Standard accommodations which are on gorgeous locations for most of the times3. Provision of equipments required for the training4. Access to good communication channels throughout the dwelling place5. Other sports and co-curricular activitiesSome of the other facilities provided by most of the well organized and maintained camps are:1. Regular kickboxing sessions2. Individual instructors being allotted to people3. Proper caution taken about the health and nutrition of the guests4. Programs related to weight loss5. Regular seminars and workshops over different methodologies of fighting and nutritionThe trainers and nutritionist allotted to the guests are completely well certified. And moreover, the accessories used are modern and so are the techniques used.In the beginning days, a close observation is kept over the amateurs. Day by day as the guests grow up professionally, they are brought to the field for more daring fights.
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Who Has Scored the Most Goals in World Cup Soccer History?
Almost every culture around the world has some type of connection to the history of football/soccer. Such cultures as the Ancient Greeks, Persians, Vikings, The Chinese, Japanese, and many more, has played a game that is very similar to today's football/soccer. For instance, The Chinese played "footballer" games dating as far back as about 3000 years ago. However, it was in England that soccer / football really began to grow in popularity. After becoming popular in England, soccer became a widely loved sport throughout the world. The celebrated FIFA World cup led the way to the rise of soccer stars, and conferred world soccer records holders such as the player who has scored the most goals in world cup soccer history.
Brazilian professional footballer Ronaldo Nazario de Lima has scored the most goals in Fifa World Cup history. Ronaldo Luís Nazario de Lima, more generally known as Ronaldo, was born in September 18, 1976. In 1993, Ronaldo began his professional soccer/footballer career playing for Cruzeiro. In his single year with Cruzeiro, he accumulated 12 goals in 14 games and led the team to win their first Copa do Brasil championship. After playing with Cruzeiro, in 1994, he joined with the Dutch football team PSV. In 1996, in his final year with PSV, Ronaldo aided the team to win the Dutch Cup.
Ronaldo is also an established national footballer for Brazil. He has played in 97 international games, accumulating 62 goals and standing 15 goals away from the Brazilian national scoring record. He was also a member of the Brazilian team that won the 1994 and 2002 World Cups. During the 2006 World Cup, Ronaldo became the highest goal scorer in the history of the World Cup with his fifteenth goal.
Nicknamed 'O Fenômeno,' which is translated as ""The Phenomenon" in English, Ronaldo made the number 9 famous and made it tantamount with the position of center forward. During his footballer career in Europe, Ronaldo became one of the most celebrated 'strikers' throughout the world after he won his first Ballon d'Or as the European Footballer of the Year in 1997, and then once more in 2002. He is also one of only two players to have won the FIFA Player of the Year award three times. In 2007, he was named as one of the best starting eleven of all-time by France Football and was named to the FIFA 100, a list of the greatest footballers compiled by his fellow Brazilian soccer star, Pelé.
To many contemporary footballers, Ronaldo is a living icon who has been credited with encouraging a stronger marketing interest in soccer throughout the world, particularly because of his relationship with Nike who had in the past spent their marketing resources and time primarily on Basketball.
The soccer that we know and love today was shaped during the 1960s. Increased media coverage and TV broadcasts has made the game more popular than ever before. With soccer stars such as David Beckham in the spotlight, the popularity of soccer will continue to grow.
by Amy Nutt
Brazilian professional footballer Ronaldo Nazario de Lima has scored the most goals in Fifa World Cup history. Ronaldo Luís Nazario de Lima, more generally known as Ronaldo, was born in September 18, 1976. In 1993, Ronaldo began his professional soccer/footballer career playing for Cruzeiro. In his single year with Cruzeiro, he accumulated 12 goals in 14 games and led the team to win their first Copa do Brasil championship. After playing with Cruzeiro, in 1994, he joined with the Dutch football team PSV. In 1996, in his final year with PSV, Ronaldo aided the team to win the Dutch Cup.
Ronaldo is also an established national footballer for Brazil. He has played in 97 international games, accumulating 62 goals and standing 15 goals away from the Brazilian national scoring record. He was also a member of the Brazilian team that won the 1994 and 2002 World Cups. During the 2006 World Cup, Ronaldo became the highest goal scorer in the history of the World Cup with his fifteenth goal.
Nicknamed 'O Fenômeno,' which is translated as ""The Phenomenon" in English, Ronaldo made the number 9 famous and made it tantamount with the position of center forward. During his footballer career in Europe, Ronaldo became one of the most celebrated 'strikers' throughout the world after he won his first Ballon d'Or as the European Footballer of the Year in 1997, and then once more in 2002. He is also one of only two players to have won the FIFA Player of the Year award three times. In 2007, he was named as one of the best starting eleven of all-time by France Football and was named to the FIFA 100, a list of the greatest footballers compiled by his fellow Brazilian soccer star, Pelé.
To many contemporary footballers, Ronaldo is a living icon who has been credited with encouraging a stronger marketing interest in soccer throughout the world, particularly because of his relationship with Nike who had in the past spent their marketing resources and time primarily on Basketball.
The soccer that we know and love today was shaped during the 1960s. Increased media coverage and TV broadcasts has made the game more popular than ever before. With soccer stars such as David Beckham in the spotlight, the popularity of soccer will continue to grow.
by Amy Nutt
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NFL AFC and NFC North Division Preview
NFL Divisional Preview AFC North The AFC North was represented quite well last season, as both participants in the AFC Championship Game were residents of this division. The Pittsburgh Steelers outlasted the Baltimore Ravens in that game, and went on to win the franchise’s sixth Super Bowl Championship. The champs haven’t changed much this off-season, with just about every main ingredient back for the chance to repeat. The Baltimore Ravens on the other hand lost some personnel, but were able keep their bigger names. Cleveland welcomes in a new coach, Eric Mangini, but still must find an answer to the question as to who will be lining up behind center. Lastly, the Cincinnati Bengals welcome back (hopefully) a healthy Carson Palmer, who must prove how effective the once prolific offense can be without T.J. Houshmandzadeh. So what will 2009 have in store for the occupants of the AFC North? Pittsburgh Steelers: 14-2 (Projected Record) After facing the toughest schedule in the league, issues on the offensive line, injuries to the quarterback, and inconsistencies in the running game, the Pittsburgh Steelers still came away from 2008 with the franchise’s sixth Super Bowl Championship. So why should 2009 be any different? All but one starter from last year’s team returns, and the schedule is nowhere near as imposing as it was last season. The offensive line should be better off this season, returning all 5 starters from unit that had 4 players in new positions a year ago. The injuries that plagued the running corps last season, should be mediated with a healthy Willie Parker, and the return of last year’s first round pick Rashad Mendenhall. But the main reasons as to why the Steelers will once again be the class of not only the division but the conference are quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and that nasty defense. Big Ben is healthy coming into 2009, and the magic he worked in crunch time last season was legendary. There is no reason to think that the Steelers will take a step backwards with him behind center. The defen se was one for the ages, leading the league in total defense, pass defense, and points allowed. They were also second in rush defense and sacks. Expect the Steelers to ear their third consecutive division crown, and contend for another Super Bowl Championship in 2009. Baltimore Ravens: 9-7 (Projected Record) Baltimore made wholesale changes in 2008, bringing in new Head Coach John Harbaugh, offensive coordinator Cam Cameron, and a rookie quarterback by the name of Joe Flacco. The culmination of these changes was a revelation, as Baltimore took those ingredients, added it to their vaunted defense, and rode them all the way to the AFC Championship Game. Flacco performed beyond his years, showing a poise that the franchise hasn’t had at the position in years. More will be expected from the young passer, as Baltimore’s chances of returning to the postseason will hinge on his arm. Harbaugh was able to convince receiver Derrick Mason to return for another season, and added former Eagle tight end L.J. Smith to bolster the passing game. With that said, the running game will be the focus of the offense once again, which was a huge reason why the team led the league in time of possession. Ironically though, one of the more interesting dilemmas is on defense, where Rex Ryan is no longer on the sideline calling the shots. Ryan took the job in New York, and departed with linebacker Bart Scott, safety Jim Leonhard, and defensive end Marquis Douglas. The Ravens did however re-sign both Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs, so even if they take steps backward on this side of the ball, it will be baby steps. With that said, the fortunes of the Ravens will once again be placed on Flacco, for if he takes the steps forward in his development, so will Baltimore. Cleveland Browns: 6-10 (Projected Record) After going 10-6 in 2007, big things were expected from the Cleveland Browns in 2008. Unfortunately, 2008 was an unmitigated disaster for the Browns, as they fell to 4-12, and back to the cellar of the AFC North. Gone is Head Coach20Romeo C rennel, Kellen Winslow, and Willie McGinest, and in comes Eric Mangini, who management hopes will be able to spark the Browns back to playoff contention. A lot of personnel has changed with the addition of Mangini, but the “Mangenius” (as he was called briefly in New York) still must find a way to get more production from an underachieving defense, and find a solution to the question of who is their starting quarterback, Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn. Anderson struggled mightily last season, before losing his job to Quinn, who showed flashes of promise before ultimately suffering a season-ending thumb injury. Then there was receiver Braylon Edwards, who had 16 touchdowns in 2007, but led the league in drops last year with 16. Without Winslow attacking the middle of the defense, defenses will concentrate more on taking Edwards away in the passing game. Defensively, Mangini must manufacture a consistent pass-rush, for the browns were ranked 30th in the league in that department with just 17. Keep in mind that their were two players in the league that had more than that individually. Mangini has a lot of work to do, and 2009 should prove whether or not he should adopt another nickname. Cincinnati Bengals: 6-10 (Projected Record) After a dismal 4-11-1 2008 campaign, the Cincinnati Bengals are now classified as a team in transition. Former Pro Bowl quarterback Carson Palmer returns from20an elbow injury that forced him to miss the majority of last season, as the team hopes that he will be able to return to the form that made one of the most promising young passers in the game. Reliable target T.J. Houshmandzedah left for greener pastures in Seattle, and was replaced by former New York Jet Laveranues Coles. Head Coach Marvin Lewis hopes that the presence of both Palmer and Coles will be able to energize receiver Chad Ocho Cinco, who is coming off the least productive season of his career. However, even if the Bengals get their once-vaunted passing game back on track, the biggest problem for them is once again their d efense, which has been statically one of the league’s worst since Lewis took the job in 2003. Cincinnati finished 21st in the league is rush defense last year, and 30th in sacks. Lewis drafted former USC standout linebacker Rey Maualuga, and added former Cowboys Tank Johnson and Roy Williams in hopes of being able to strengthen the middle of that unit. Many believed Lewis was on the hot seat a year ago, but due to the injury to Palmer, he was given a pass. No such pass will be granted in 2009 if he can’t get the Bengals back into the playoff picture. NFL Divisional Preview NFC North The NFC has been one of the weaker divisions in the NFC for a while now, but 2009 looks to be different. The Minnesota Vikings are the20 defending champions of the division, but after failing to pry Brett Favre out of retirement, they will go back to what they did last year; plugging in quarterbacks, while pounding the ball, and playing great defense. It was enough to win the division last year, so there’s no reason to think it won’t be this year. Wait, but they will have competition though, as both the Packers and the Bears have made improvements which should put them into playoff contention. Green bay is relying on a revamped defense, while Chicago is putting all their eggs in the basket of Jay Cutler, who they are absolutely GIDDY about. The Lions however, are trying to rebound from the league’s first-ever 0-16 season, and have a bunch of new faces to break in, which include a rookie quarterback and a new Head Coach. So with the bottom three teams in the division getting better, and Minnesota holding steadfast, what will 2009 have in store for the North? Minnesota Vikings: 10-6 (Projected Record) The Brett Favre specter came back to haunt the NFC North this off season, in the form of the Minnesota Vikings, who ultimately couldn’t lure the future Hall-of-Famer out of retirement. So who will be throwing passes for the Vikings in 2009? Brad Childress brought in Sage Rosenfels from the Texans, to compete with Tavaris Jackson for the starting job. Sounds like déjà vu all over again for the Vikings, who bounced back and forth between Jackson and Gus Frerotte last season. But here’s another question; does it really matter? Despite the issues behind center, Minnesota still won 10 games and the division crown. Well whoever is throwing passes this season will have the luxury of arguably the best rushing attack in the league behind them . Adrian Peterson led the league in rushing last year, and proved to possess the ability to change a game at any given moment. He’s that special. Coupled with the solid Chester Taylor, and what is one of the best offensive lines in football, the Vikings have the kind of offense which really doesn’t need stellar quarterback play. That’s not to say that there aren’t weapons there though, as Bernard Berrian is a dangerous deep threat, and the drafting of receiver Percy Harvin will give Childress a player in the Reggie Bush mold. Defensively, they are great because of that defensive line, which is the best in the league. They ranked 1st in run defense, and 4th in sacks last year causing all kinds of havoc at the line of scrimmage. Things haven’t changed much at all for the Vikings, and as long as they remain strong in the trenches it’s hard to believe that they will be worse for wear. Green Bay Packers: 10-6 (Projected Record) 2008 was all about how the Green Bay Packers were going to replace legendary20quarterback Brett Favre. Well, Aaron Rodgers came in and played solid football. So if there wasn’t much of a drop off on offense, how did a 13-3 team, go 6-10? The answer is defense. Green bay ranked 20th in total defense, 22nd in points allowed, and was particularly weak against the rush where they were ranked 26th in the league. In an attempt to improve this unit, Head Coach Mike McCarthy brought in Dom Capers to implement his aggressive 3-4 defense. The Packers do have the personnel for such a change, but it may take some time to adjust to the nuances of such a scheme. The drafting of massive nose tackle B.J. Raji w as imperative, but it will be interesting to see how defensive end Aaron Kampman makes the transition to outside linebacker, because that’s where the results are going to need to come from. The Packers were 25th in the league in sacks, and with as much man coverage as they play, a strong pass rush is crucial to the overall effectiveness of this unit. Aside form scheme change on defense, there was barely any changeover in Green Bay, so expect the Packers to not be nearly as bad as they were in 2008, but not quite as good as they were in 2007. Chicago Bears: 9-7 (Projected Record) Since losing the Super Bowl in 2006, the Chicago Bears have been simply average going 16-16 over the last two seasons. 2009 looks to be different for the bears, as they firmly believe they now have what has virtually eluded them since the 80’s...a quarterback. In what can only be described as a steal, the Bears were able to pry Jay Cutler away from the Broncos. Cutler brings an entirely new dimension to the offense, and could possibly make the Bears a dark hoarse contender in the NFC. Chicago ranked 26th in the league in total offense, and Cutler should be a breath of fresh air for that unit. However, we won’t be shy to point out that the Bears receiving corps doesn’t boast the talent that Denver does, so it will be interesting to see how things will play out. Ironically, Chicago must improve their defense which really tailed off in 2008, ranking only 21st in the league in total defense, and were particularly vulnerable against the pass where they were ranked 30th. There wasn’t much changeover on this unit, so it’s on Urlacher, Briggs, Harris and company to get things back in order in Chicago. Look for the Bears to be better in 2009, but unless their defense can get healthy again, it won’t be substantially better. Detroit Lions: 2-14 (Projected Record) Winless. That is what the Detroit Lions were in 2008, as they became the first team in NFL history to go 0-16. So changes are in order right? Rod Marinelli is gone, and in place as the H ead Coach is Jim Schwartz, who gave this team a complete makeover, starting with drafting quarterback Mathew Stafford with the number one overall pick. Schwartz’s expertise though is on defense, and he has one helluva job in front of him in Detroit, where the Lions finished dead last in the league last year in total defense, rush defense, points allowed, interceptions, and turnover differential. The additions of linebackers Julian Peterson and Larry Foote, cornerback Philip Buchanon, and tackle Grady Jackson should help, but drastic improvement is unlikely in 2009. Offensively Daunte Caulpepper will start the season, but the former Pro Bowl quarterback will likely take a backseat to Stafford as soon as the rookie thrower is ready to play. There is some talent on offense. Calvin Johnson is one of the most gifted receivers in the league, and Kevin Smith and Rudi Johnson have the potential to be a quality tandem at running back. The additions of Bryant Johnson and Ronald Curry to the receiving corps should help as well. However, the offensive line is still a work in progress, and is the main reason Schwartz won’t be marching Stafford out there in Week One. Still, it’s unrealistic for anyone to believe that Detroit will put together the kind of turnaround that the Dolphins had last year, but it’s also unlikely that this group will go winless once again in 2009.
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