Rodriguez hints at Liverpool exit

Rodriguez joined Liverpool from Atletico Madrid in 2010 Liverpool winger Maxi Rodriguez could be on his way back to his boyhood club Newell's Old Boys in Argentina.

Rodriguez revealed he had said yes in principle to a move back home.

The 30-year-old came through the youth set-up to play three first-team seasons for the Rosario-based side before moving to Espanyol in 2002.

"The president [William Lorenzo] called me and I said yes. It depends on the contract I have in Liverpool, maybe that can be loosened a little."

Despite a successful end to last season's campaign with Liverpool, when he scored two hat-tricks as he hit seven goals in three matches, Rodriguez is likely to be only a fringe player next season if he stays.

As manager Kenny Dalglish looks to freshen up his squad and bring in younger players, Rodriguez's age could count against him.

Midfielder Charlie Adam, 25, and winger Stewart Downing, 26, are said to be on Dalglish's wish-list.

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Vaughan bids to keep Wales place

David Vaughan has won 25 caps since his debut in the United States in 2003 David Vaughan insists he wants to remain in the Premier League in a bid to keep his Wales starting place.

The 28-year-old midfielder ended his three-year stay at relegated Blackpool after turning down a contract offer at Bloomfield Road to become a free agent.

Vaughan has been linked with Premier League moves to Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion as he wants to continue being a regular in the Wales midfield.

"The last 12 months I have played more regularly for Wales," said Vaughan.

"That has been good and if I want to continue that I have to be playing as high as I can on a weekly basis."

Vaughan has won eight of his 25 Wales caps in the last 12 months, having established himself as a top-flight player in Ian Holloway's Blackpool midfield alongside Charlie Adam.

Former Real Sociedad player Vaughan impressed for Blackpool in the Premier League despite their relegation to the Championship and was named as the club's player of the year.

But Vaughan, who has started five of the last seven Wales internationals, faces tough competition to remain in Gary Speed's midfield.

Vaughan is up against captain Aaron Ramsey, Jack Collison, Joe Ledley, David Edwards, Joe Allen and Andy King for a place in the centre of Wales' midfield.

"I enjoyed my first season in the Premier League," said Vaughan.

"It was something new to me and I enjoyed playing against some of the best players in the world and that is something I want to continue next season.

"A couple of clubs have shown an interest."

Vaughan, who made 116 appearances for the Seasiders, began his career at Crewe Alexandra but joined Blackpool from Spanish side Real Sociedad in August 2008.

He then helped Holloway's men win Premier League promotion for the first time in 2010.

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McLeish set to meet Villa owner

McLeish, who quit Birmingham by e-mail, has been linked with Aston Villa Alex McLeish has interrupted a holiday to hold talks with Aston Villa owner Randy Lerner, BBC Sport understands.

McLeish resigned as manager of local rivals Birmingham City on Sunday.

A Villa statement said on Tuesday: "The club understands that Alex McLeish is a free agent. We therefore intend to interview him imminently."

Responding to Villa's announcement, Birmingham released their own statement, accusing their neighbours of "tapping up" McLeish.

The 52-year-old Scot resigned as manager of the Blues on Sunday 12 June, one month after narrowly missing out on securing the club's Premier League status.

Continue reading the main story Joined Aberdeen in 1976Spent 15 years with the Dons, playing under Sir Alex FergusonWon 77 caps for ScotlandManaged Motherwell, Hibs and Rangers in ScotlandGuided Gers to domestic treble in 2003Became Scotland manager in January 2007, beating France 1-0 in Paris later that yearJoined Birmingham in November 2007, saw them relegated in 2008 but brought them back at the first attemptGuided Birmingham to Carling Cup triumph in February 2011, but Blues were relegated on final day of the season

Although Birmingham's board were going to retain McLeish, they added the caveat that they expected him to achieve promotion once again but he opted to move on.

The St Andrews club are unhappy with any move to employ their former boss, with their statement claiming that Villa's announcement to proceed with an interview was "a contempt of Premier League and FA rules".

It added: "The club feel this will taint football and give the game and the footballing authorities a bad name if this is allowed to materialise. We will lodge a formal complaint as there is now not the slightest doubt remaining about this tap-up attempt.

"This conduct, if condoned, will open up floodgates and set a very bad precedent. It is also an attack against the intelligence and integrity of not only the Villa fans, but most importantly our fans who are badly let down after relegation."

However, Villa, who have been without a permanent boss since the end of April when Gerard Houllier suffered ill health, believe they have taken fans' feelings into account.

"In deciding to interview McLeish, the board has taken his tenure at our local rivals and the strong emotions associated with this very seriously," the Villa statement added.

On 10 June, Wigan manager Roberto Martinez turned down the chance to manage Villa, having been given permission to talk to the Midlands outfit by his club.

Steve McClaren, now in charge at Nottingham Forest, and former Fulham boss Mark Hughes are two others who have been linked with the position.

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Quinn dismisses Gyan speculation

Gyan joined Sunderland from Stade Rennes for £13m in August 2010 and scored 11 goals in his debut season on Wearside Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn has described reports that Asamoah Gyan's availability has been circulated to other clubs as 'embarrassing'.

The 25-year old striker's name was reportedly on a list of players sent out by a north east agency.

"The suggestion is embarrassing," Quinn told the club website.

"I hope our fans would be smart enough to realise that this is probably some way of attempting to destabilise our relationship with one of our players."

Quinn added: I'm sorry that our fans have to read the endless speculation that appears in the press at this time of year.

"Normally we don't comment on any of it as there's so much. For instance, we've been linked to over 40 players in the last month or so alone."

Continue reading the main story Gyan has played top flight football in Italy with Udinese, France with Rennes and England with SunderlandGyan scored on his Black Cats debut against Wigan, and his Ghana debut against SomaliaThree is Gyan's lucky number; he wears that shirt for Ghana, but has 33 at Sunderland as three was already taken by Kieran Richardson

Gyan, who joined Sunderland in August 2010 at a fee in excess of £13m from French side Rennes, scored 11 goals in his debut season on Wearside.

The Black Cats have already sold England international midfielder Jordan Henderson to Liverpool for £20m earlier this month.

Meanwhile boss Steve Bruce is looking to strengthen the squad, notably in striking areas following the £24m departure of Darren Bent to Aston Villa in January, and the return of loan striker Danny Welbeck to parent club Manchester United.

Among the names linked with Sunderland are South Korea striker Ji Dong-Won and Liverpool forward David Ngog.

"What I can say is that we are in a number of meaningful negotiations to bring players in and when there's anything definitive to report it will be on our club website for our fans to read," Quinn added.

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Gullit is sacked by Chechen club

Gullit spent only five months in charge of Terek Grozny Ruud Gullit has been sacked as manager of Russian side Terek Grozny.

The Dutch legend, 48, was appointed in January, but had been told by club president Ramzan Kadyrov that Terek must win at Amkar Perm on Tuesday.

After a last-minute goal condemned them to a 1-0 defeat, Kadyrov told Interfax: "Gullit will no longer train Terek. Under him, the team have played exceptionally poorly this season."

The result leaves Terek lying 14th in the 16-team Russian Premier League.

"I don't think it would have mattered if I had won or lost," said Gullit, who has also had spells in charge of Chelsea, Newcastle, Feyenoord and Los Angeles Galaxy.

Continue reading the main story Raf Saakov,
BBC Russian Service sports correspondent

In Chechnya, football is more than just a sport. It's a matter of national pride, and of enormous political importance.

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov is not only head of the restive republic - he is also president of Terek Grozny FC. He doesn't shun using football to promote himself and his vision of a post-war Chechnya.

And questions are being asked about how much people like Ruud Gullit are being paid - and how one of Russia's poorest republics can afford stars of his calibre.

On his arrival in Chechnya he was given the target of taking Terek to a top-eight position in the league by mid-season, but managed only three wins in 13 games in charge.

In a statement on the club's website before the Amkar Perm game, Kadyrov, who is also the Chechen president, said he was "extremely dissatisfied" with Gullit's performance.

"Considering all this, Ramzan Kadyrov is presenting Ruud Gullit with the task of bringing back three points from Perm," continued the statement.

"In the event of the opposite outcome, Gullit will be dismissed from the position of head coach."

Gullit, a former world player of the year and one of the most successful players in the history of Dutch football, signed an 18-month contract when he joined Terek.

The Russian government had invested significant political hopes in the Chechen team's sporting success, in an attempt to move forward after two decades of ruinous conflict with the breakaway region.

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Gardner's Blues future is unclear

Gardner made 14 appearances for the England Under-21 side Birmingham City midfielder Craig Gardner has admitted his future at the club is uncertain after Alex McLeish's resignation as manager.

The 24-year-old was top scorer with 10 goals in his first full season as City were relegated from the Premier League.

"Everything is up in the air at the moment. I'm unsure exactly what is happening behind the scenes and what the board are thinking," he said.

"At the end of the day, like every player, I have to think of my career."

Lifelong Blues fan Gardner signed from city rivals Aston Villa for £3m in January 2010.

But despite their Carling Cup victory over Arsenal in February and their subsequent qualification for Europe, following Birmingham's relegation on the final day of the 2010/11 season, Gardner has been linked with a £5m move to Sunderland.

The man who brought the midfielder to St Andrew's, Alex McLeish, is now the subject of a bitter battle between Villa, who want to interview him for their managerial vacancy, and the Blues, who have accused their rivals of "tapping him up".

Gardner believes McLeish's departure is a big blow, admitting: "It's a sad loss for Birmingham and it's not a good start to the summer.

"For me, Alex McLeish was great. He showed a lot of faith in me, signing me from Villa, and my career moved forward from there.

"The club needs to bring in a manager with the kind of credentials and experience Alex McLeish has. Someone like that would fit the bill."

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West Ham 'close to signing Nolan'

By Paul Fletcher
BBC Sport Liverpudlian Nolan joined Newcastle in January 2009 from Bolton Newcastle captain Kevin Nolan is set to rejoin former boss Sam Allardyce at West Ham, BBC Sport understands.

The 28-year-old is still in Newcastle ahead of a medical but it is expected he will soon be reunited with his former Bolton manager at Upton Park.

Magpies team-mate Joey Barton wrote on Twitter: "Just on my way to Ascot, feel sick.

"Great player, leader, captain, person, trainer and mostly a friend for life. Devastated to see him SOLD."

Barton also hinted on the social networking site that he along with team-mates Jose Enrique and Jonas Gutierrez could be set to leave the club, writing "#mejoseandjonasnext".

Enrique has yet to respond to the club's offer of a new deal, while Barton's agent claimed earlier this week that his player would not be offered a new contract.

Magpies skipper Nolan is currently recovering from surgery on an ankle injury but is expected to be fit for the start of pre-season training.

He scored 12 goals in the Premier League last season and 18 during the 2009-10 campaign as Newcastle won promotion back to the top flight.

Nolan joined Newcastle for a fee of £4m in January 2009 from Bolton, for whom he made almost 300 appearances after joining as a schoolboy.

The Magpies skipper had been in talks with the Tyneside club over a new contract, but negotiations broke down after the two parties could not agree on the length of an extension.

It is thought that the Hammers, who were relegated from the Premier League, made an initial offer of £1.5m for Nolan.

The former England Under-21 international, who was the Football League player of the year in 2010, had a close relationship with recently recruited Hammers boss Allardyce at Bolton.

Allardyce was appointed at the start of the month and made his first signing on Tuesday with the capture of defender Abdoulaye Faye on a free transfer from Stoke.

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Fabregas happy to stay at Arsenal

Fabregas last appeared for Arsenal on 24 April Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has stated he is happy to stay with the Gunners and added no decision has been made about a move away from the club.

The 24-year-old Spain midfielder has long been linked with a return to boyhood team Barcelona.

"I am an Arsenal player. I have been very happy for eight years and I am very happy," he said.

"There have been no decisions. It doesn't always depend on the player and at the moment I don't know anything."

Fabregas added: "You can never say never in this life as so many things happen that you can never predict.

"But I am very happy where I am. Anything else would be speculation that is untrue."

Spanish media have reported that European champions Barca would need to pay around €40m [£35.2m] to secure Fabregas's services.

He moved from the Catalan club to London in 2003 at the age of 16, and is seen by many as a natural replacement for Barca playmaker Xavi, who turned 31 in January.

But Fabregas believes any decision on his future will be made by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

"He is the boss, the one who makes the decisions - you should ask him," Fabregas said.

"But I was injured at the end of the season and I haven't seen him for about six weeks."

Fabregas won the 2010 World Cup with Spain, but his only major honour with the Gunners came in 2005, with victory in the FA Cup - Arsenal's last trophy.

And the midfielder did admit his frustration at the repeated failure to bring silverware back to the Emirates, but recognised the club's future looks bright.

"A player who is not frustrated at not winning titles is either lying to himself or lacks ambition," he commented.

"But there is a good team and a good manager and one of the most faithful fanbases in Europe. With those I believe we can make progress and one day win an important trophy."

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World Cup 2014 qualifying begins

Rio de Janeiro will host the full World Cup draw in July Qualifying for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil will get under way on Wednesday with Trinidad hosting a preliminary match between Montserrat and Belize.

With 31 spots up for grabs at the tournament, the first of 832 qualifiers will be played in the Caribbean because of Montserrat's ill-equipped stadium.

Montserrat are ranked 202nd, 30 places below their opponents, and coached by 46-year-old Londoner Kenny Dyer.

"It's not easy trying to get players but there's national pride," Dyer said.

The two teams are competing in a first-leg match in Couva, hoping eventually to progress from the North, Central American and Caribbean (Concacaf) region.

Dyer, whose team haven't played a competitive match since October, told BBC Radio 5 live: "We've got players who work in McDonald's, accountants, a few full-time professionals, policemen.

"Some players are seeing each other for the first time. It's about team spirit and camaraderie.

"We all know where we are and how low-ranked Montserrat is. Playing international football doesn't come to everyone, so the players blessed with the ability will come in and grasp it.

"It's a big ask, but it's about 90 minutes and we can play well."

Despite Montserrat being among a number of Caribbean Football Union members targeted in an ongoing Fifa investigation into bribery, Dyer, who started coaching Montserrat in 2008, insisted his players remain focused.

"There is no distraction," stated Dyer, who played youth football for Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as competing professionally for Maidstone United and in Cyprus.

"There's only one thing on their minds and that's training and getting the right result."

Montserrat was devastated when the Soufriere Hills volcano erupted in 1995, one year before gaining Fifa membership.

In three World Cup qualifying campaigns, they have never won a match nor played on a home ground.

Europe's 53 teams, including defending champions Spain, will find out who they face in qualifying when the draw takes place on 30 July, while their groups begin in September 2012.

Concacaf's strongest teams, including the United States and Mexico, get going in June 2012.

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Fifa called to investigate Blazer

Blazer's bribery claims have engulfed football's governing body Concacaf general secretary Chuck Blazer has been questioned by Fifa's ethics committee after complaints were made against him by Caribbean associations.

Blazer sparked the investigation that led to the suspension of fellow Fifa members Jack Warner and Mohamed Bin Hammam on bribery charges.

The complaint is related to remarks Blazer is alleged to have made in a meeting in Zurich in May.

"I am confident of a positive resolution," said Blazer.

The official complaint was made in a letter to the committee signed by 11 heads of Caribbean federations.

The complaint is related to Blazer's behaviour at a Concacaf meeting before last month's Fifa Congress and does not refer in any way to the bribery issues currently under investigation by world football's governing body.

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[Blazer] discriminated against certain members of the Concacaf through his contemptuous and denigratory words since all the persons who were singled out were of a specific race

Extract of letter sent by Caribbean federations to Fifa

The letter said Blazer made "statements of contempt and slander that served to impugn the integrity, discriminate against and infringe upon the personal rights" of Concacaf members.

The meeting came after Blazer gave a dossier to the ethics committee containing allegations of bribery relating to a meeting in Port of Spain, Trinidad, between Caribbean federations and Asian soccer chief Bin Hammam.

A Caribbean football source told Reuters the meeting spilled over into a row over who should take over as acting president after Warner was suspended, during which Blazer told some Caribbean officials they faced investigation.

The letter of complaint continues: "The statement of Mr Blazer flouts the principle of a person being innocent before being proven guilty."

It says Blazer "violated the personal rights" of Captain Horace Burrell, the president of the Jamaican Football Federation - Blazer blocked him becoming active vice-president of Concacaf.

It also alleges Blazer "discriminated against Capt Burrell and certain members of the Concacaf through his contemptuous and denigratory words since all the persons who were singled out were of a specific race".

Bin Hammam and then Concacaf president Warner were subsequently suspended by the ethics committee pending a full investigation.

Blazer claims that Warner and Bin Hammam paid Caribbean delegates $40,000 (£24,250) each to vote for Bin Hammam in his failed bid for the Fifa presidency.

The Fifa investigation gets under way on Wednesday, with Caribbean representatives being interviewed by Fifa investigators in the Bahamas.

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Norwich sign midfielder Bennett

Bennett started his career at home-town club Wolves Norwich City have signed Brighton midfielder Elliott Bennett on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The Canaries had an approach for Bennett rejected in January, which led to the 22-year-old handing in a transfer request.

He played 53 times in all competitions for the League One champions last season, scoring eight goals.

"He is a young and exciting player with plenty of pace," Norwich boss Paul Lambert told the club website.

"He can play in a wide position or in behind the forwards, he's a quick lad and he's got a winning mentality.

"He played his full part in what Brighton achieved last season and that desire to succeed will stand him in good stead here."

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I didn't make it through at Wolves, which was my home-town club, and Brighton gave me the opportunity and I'm grateful for that

Elliott Bennett Norwich City signing

A Wolves youth product, Bennett made two appearances for his boyhood club and had to gain experience through loan spells at Crewe and Bury.

In 2009 the Seagulls moved to sign the youngster, initially on a three-year deal.

But after a string of impressive performances at the beginning of the 2010/11 campaign, boss Gus Poyet acted quickly to hand him a new three-and-a-half-year contract in November.

He went on to contribute 17 assists as Brighton won promotion to the Championship.

"It's an unbelievable opportunity for me to fight for a place in a team which will be playing in the Premier League," he said.

"I like the mentality at Norwich City that has seen them get back-to-back promotions and I'm grateful to Paul Lambert for giving me the chance to be part of what's happening at the club.

"I didn't make it through at Wolves, which was my home-town club, and Brighton gave me the opportunity and I'm grateful for that.

"Now I'm just really excited about the chance to try to help Norwich in the Premier League."

Brighton boss Poyet told his club's website: "I thank Elliott for the way he has approached the situation. He had a great opportunity to leave in January.

"He understood how important he was to us and he agreed to stay another six months to help us get out of League One, but now it's impossible for him to turn down because of the offer and the level he is going to play.

"When I came to the club he was seen as just a right winger, but he's also been very impressive playing behind the strikers, playing the shape we played away from home and also in a disciplined role when we were chasing games."

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Forest's McKenna set to join Hull

McKenna's first goal for Forest was against his old club Preston in 2009 Nottingham Forest midfielder Paul McKenna is set to join Championship rivals Hull City on a two-year deal.

The 33-year-old joined the Reds from Preston in July 2009 after spending 17 years at Deepdale.

McKenna has since made 78 appearances in two years with the City Ground club, scoring three goals.

Forest, who have offered new deals to striker Robert Earnshaw and midfielder Guy Moussi, are believed to be happy to let McKenna go on a free transfer.

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Cardiff bid for Mackay rejected

Malky Mackay replaced Brendan Rodgers as Watford boss in June 2009 Cardiff City have had an official approach for Watford manager Malky Mackay rejected by the Hornets.

However, Hornets owner Laurence Bassini said he still has to consult the board.

"I rejected the approach and hope our fans understand that I now need to consult [chairman] Graham Taylor and the board of directors," he said.

Former Newcastle boss Alan Shearer revealed on Wednesday that he had held "unsuccessful" talks with Watford's Championship rivals Cardiff.

While Bassini was quick to reject Cardiff's initial approach, the further discussions to be held among the Watford hierarchy suggest that the matter is not closed.

"The need to discuss this matter with members of the board is paramount," Bassini added.

"We don't want Malky to leave Watford and we will do everything in our power to keep him at Vicarage Road.

"We should remember that Malky committed his future to Watford as recently as March, when he signed a new three-year contract."

Cardiff have been searching for a new manager since ending Dave Jones' six-year reign on 30 May.

Another former Newcastle manager, Chris Hughton, ex-West Brom boss Roberto Di Matteo, St Johnstone's Derek McInnes and ex-Barnsley boss Mark Robins have all been linked with the vacant Cardiff job.

Chief executive Gethin Jenkins and director Alan Whiteley have led Cardiff's search, while chairman Dato Chan Tien Ghee has arrived from Malaysia to complete the deal for Jones' replacement.

Watford chairman Graham Taylor has previously admitted that "Malky is linked with virtually every job that comes up" and the Hornets are well aware the former Scotland defender is in demand.

Mackay replaced Brendan Rodgers in the Vicarage Road hotseat in June 2009 after the current Swansea boss departed to Reading.

In his first managerial job Mackay has earned a reputation for playing competitive and attractive football on a modest budget.

The 39-year-old guided the Hornets to 14th in last season's Championship.

With less than two months to go until the start of the new Championship season - and fixtures announced on Friday, 17 June - Cardiff have recognised the need to appoint a new manager as quickly as possible and have moved for the man they want, much to Watford's chagrin.

Whoever takes over at the Cardiff City Stadium will face a hefty rebuilding process at the club, with 12 players having left including last season's top scorer Jay Bothroyd and fellow striker Michael Chopra.

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Bullard wages too much for Jewell

Bullard impressed during his 16-game and five-goal spell at Ipswich last term Ipswich Town boss Paul Jewell has said the club cannot afford to make a move for Hull midfielder Jimmy Bullard.

The Tigers are eager to remove the 32-year-old, who was loaned out to Town last season, from their wage bill.

"The owners there are not prepared to let Jimmy go out on loan unless there's a huge contribution to his wages," Jewell told BBC Radio Suffolk.

"It's a deal we'd both like to do but if it's a messy deal financially you just can't do it."

Bullard has been reported to be earning £45,000 a week at the KC Stadium, with Hull's head of football operations Adam Pearson revealing in February that Ipswich had been paying almost half of the midfielder's wages throughout his four-month loan spell.

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Jimmy's got two years left on a huge deal and after hours of negotiations it's not going to happen

Paul Jewell Ipswich Town boss

In March, Bullard suggested he would be willing to take a pay cut to move to Suffolk, saying: "Finances aren't everything I'm about, football's my main prerogative."

But Jewell is not confident: "I spoke to Adam Pearson and I spoke to Jimmy at length. Jimmy was great for us and I think we were good to Jimmy.

"But finances speak at the end of the day. Jimmy's on a fantastic contract there, he's on a top Premier League contract, everybody knows that.

"He probably won't play here again. That's not through a lack of ambition, it's just through being realistic - we can't pay the money Hull and Jimmy are looking for.

"Jimmy's got two years left on a huge deal and after hours of negotiations it's not going to happen."

Meanwhile, Jewell has admitted to making an enquiry about Preston defender Sean St Ledger, but added: "It's a long way from happening.

"There's a number of players we're looking at, he's one of them, we haven't made an offer, we asked about his availability."

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West Ham sign up Abdoulaye Faye

Faye made only 16 appearances for Stoke last season Sam Allardyce has made his first signing as West Ham manager by securing Stoke defender Abdoulaye Faye on a free transfer.

Senegal international Faye, 33, was informed by the Potters he would not be offered a new contract this summer.

He will arrive at Upton Park when his current deal expires at the end of this month.

Allardyce has signed Faye on two previous occasions, having taken him to Bolton and Newcastle.

The centre-back is relishing the prospect of linking up with the former Blackburn boss once again as the Hammers bid to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

"I am very happy to be here at West Ham - this is a great club, a big club and I cannot wait to get started here," Faye told the club website.

"For me to come here was no problem, I had other clubs' offers, but I was happy to come here.

"People may ask why, as the team are in the Championship, but I am excited at the challenge to help get the team back to the Premier League, where I think the club belongs."

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Moratti: Leonardo not in talks with PSG

Inter Milan have denied speculation that coach Leonardo could leave the Serie A outfit this summer to join Paris St Germain.

Gazzetta dello Sport claimed on Wednesday that Leonardo has an offer from PSG and that the Brazilian held talks in Doha with executives from Qatar Sports Investments, which owns a 70% share of the French club.

However, Inter president Massimo Moratti said on the club's official website, www.inter.it: "I have spoken to Leonardo. He is on holiday in Brazil.

"There is nothing concrete regarding the rumours that are circulating."

Inter club administrator Ernesto Paolillo added: "They are just rumours and there's absolutely no truth in them."

Moratti only on Tuesday denied reports that Inter had approached Chile coach Marcelo Bielsa as a possible candidate to succeed Leonardo in the Nerazzurri hotseat.

Leonardo, who replaced sacked Rafael Benitez at the helm in December, led Inter to a runners-up finish in Serie A and the Coppa Italia title.

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Manzano wants value in Aguero deal

New Atletico Madrid coach Gregorio Manzano says the club would rather see Sergio Aguero go to arch rivals Real Madrid than accept a cut-price deal with another club.

Argentine international Aguero, 23, has a €45million buy-out clause in his Atletico contract, which has put off a number of suitors with Juventus reportedly only prepared to bid up to €25million.

Real and big-spending Manchester City have the capital to match Atletico's valuation and Manzano acknowledged getting the best price was the priority.

"It is better that he [Aguero] goes to [Real] Madrid for €45million than to another team for €25million," Manzano said in 'El Larguero'. "You always have to look for the best value in the market."

Aguero is thought to prefer a move within Spain and has hinted at the possibility of a move to Real Madrid, but Manzano admits the door is still open for the player to change his mind.

"The player is ours at the moment and I would love to coach Kun Aguero," said Manzano. "He would be received with open arms."

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Takashi Usami set to join Bayern

Gamba Osaka midfielder Takashi Usami has agreed to join Bayern Munich in the summer, according to a report in German newspaper TZ.

The 19-year-old has caught the eye of the German giants ever since joining the Gamba Osaka senior ranks and has developed into one of the hottest prospect in Japanese football.

Apparently, Bayern are not the only club interested in the Japan starlet, with Schalke 04, Bayer Leverkusen and Sporting Lisbon all reportedly hot on the heels of Usami.

However, the Bavarians have won the battle for his signature as Usami has made up his mind to move to the Alianz Arena.

Reports claim the teenager will link up with Bayern in mid-July although the specifics of the deal have not been confirmed.

Sources in Germany have claimed Bayern will sign Usami on a season-long deal, with a view to buy the player at the end of the spell for a fee in the region of €1.5-€3.5 million.

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Getafe sign Miguel Angel Moya

Getafe have completed the signing of goalkeeper Miguel Angel Moya from Valencia.

The 27-year-old has been under the radar of Getafe for some time and his uncertain future at the Mestalla further catalyzed his exit from Valencia.

Sealing his fate at the club was the signing of Almeria's Diego Alves last month.

Now the Madrid-based side have confirmed on their official website that Moya has passed a medical on Tuesday and is now a Getafe player.

The former Mallorca man suffered a frustrating two seasons at the Mestalla, and after suffering from a series of injuries found himself behind Cesar and Vicente Guiata in the pecking order for the No. 1 jersey, making just four La Liga appearances in 2010-11.

The Spanish shot stopper will be offically unveiled conference at 1200 GMT on Wednesday.

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Cesc will not request Barca transfer

Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas insists he will not force a move to La Liga giants Barcelona.

Speculation has been arife over Fabregas' future this summer, especially with the 24-year-old making no secret of his desire to one day return to the Nou Camp.

Arsenal team-mate Bacary Sagna further fanned the flames on Tuesday by declaring that he was aware of Fabregas' wish to join Barcelona this summer.

However, the Spanish international has now come out and insisted that he will not hand in a transfer request.

"I am an Arsenal player," Fabregas said, according to The Guardian.

"I have been very happy for eight years and I am very happy. I am not thinking about football now, just about my holidays."

Still, Fabregas refused to definitely rule out a move away from the Emirates Stadium.

"I am not going to talk about any team - but I can't say no to anyone because you never know what could happen in the future.

"I have values and after all I have done in eight years here, I am not going to say a word that would ruin everything. I have always acted with discretion.

"Everyone sees things in a different way but these decisions, not everything depends on the player.

"If I said anything else it would be a lie, it would give rise to speculation that is not true."

Fabregas did admit that winning titles remains at the forefront of his ambitions, and conceded that moving to Barcelona would offer him an excellent shot at silverware.

"Barcelona are the best team in the world and going there guarantees titles. But I owe myself to Arsenal."

Fabregas, who won both Euro 2008 and the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Spain admits to being frustrated at the lack of success in the past few seasons at the Emirates Stadium.

"Any player who says he is not frustrated at not winning titles is lying.

"There is a good team and a good manager and one of the most faithful fan bases in Europe. With those I believe we can make progress and one day win an important trophy.

"I am ambitious. [But] I have not spoken to the manager.

"He is the boss, he makes decisions and I don't know if they want to sell me or not."

While Fabregas has stopped short of outrightly declaring he wants a transfer to Barcelona, the lack of a statement of his desire to stay is bound to worry all involved at Arsenal.

Fabregas has made over 300 appearances for Arsenal, but only has an FA Cup final victory in 2005 to show for his time at the Emirates, although he was unlucky to miss out on the UEFA Champions League the following year.

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Hiddink unmoved over Chelsea job

Guus Hiddink's agent insisted on Wednesday the Dutchman would not quit as Turkey manager to take over at Chelsea, despite the resignation of the man who appointed him.

But Cees van Nieuwenhuizen admitted he was unable to say for certain whether Hiddink would snub the Blues if they reached an agreement with the Turkish Football Federation to release him from his contract.

Yesterday saw TFF president Mahmut Ozgener announce he would not stand for another term in office, a decision which fuelled speculation over Hiddink's position.

Ozgener has been a staunch ally of the 64-year-old but the former's impending departure will diminish any say he has if Chelsea decide to test the TFF's resolve to keep Hiddink.

Hiddink is renowned for not breaking contracts but Van Nieuwenhuizen was uncertain whether his client would consider being bought out of the final year of it as the same as a breach.

"I really have no idea," Van Nieuwenhuizen told Press Association Sport, insisting Ozgener's announcement had "not had any effect" on Hiddink's own position.

He added: "The contract is with the Turkish Football Federation and not the individual president."

Asked if Hiddink was concerned or upset about Ozgener's departure, Van Nieuwenhuizen said: "Guus is somebody who can accept the facts of life."

Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay yesterday refused to comment on reports Hiddink is the club's number one target as he visited Hong Kong ahead of their pre-season tour of Asia.

He did reveal, however, that he hoped to make an appointment within the next fortnight.

Van Nieuwenhuizen maintained today there had been no formal contact between Hiddink - who is also currently in Asia - and the Blues over the vacancy.

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AC Milan rule out return of Kaka

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has closed the door on Real Madrid midfielder Kaka returning to the San Siro outfit in the near future.

Galliani responded to ongoing speculation the Brazil international would move back to the Rossoneri this summer, after a troubled spell with Madrid in which injuries and form have hindered his career, by claiming a deal would not be possible.

"I'm 100% certain that he [Kaka] will not return," Galliani said to Gazzetta dello Sport.

"He will not join us even on loan because the problem is his high wages."

The 29-year-old joined Madrid from Milan in 2009 and is under contract with the La Liga side until June 2015.

Milan will make just one more signing this summer, according to Galliani, but it will not be Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger.

The Germany international is considered a potential target of the Serie A champions, who are looking to bring in a left-sided midfielder following the departure of Andrea Pirlo to Juventus.

"Only one player will arrive. A big name that will join us before the end of the transfer market," said Galliani.

"It's still early days and I don't want to give any clues.

"However, Schweinsteiger will not come and Kaka will not return to the club because of his high wages."

Milan have been linked with a host of top players, including Palermo's Javier Pastore and Santos star Ganso.

The Rossoneri already strengthened their defensive line last month with the arrival of Philippe Mexes from Roma and Taye Taiwo from Lyon.

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Grafite future at Wolfsburg uncertain

Striker Grafite will meet with Wolfsburg boss Felix Magath this week before deciding on whether to make a move to the United Arab Emirates.

The 32-year-old Brazil international, who was the top scorer in Hamburg's 2009 German Bundesliga title success, is considering a reported two-year deal to join Dubai-based club Al Ahli.

The striker's agent Pascal Carbon revealed a deal was likely to happen, however, a last round of meetings with Magath will take place before a final decision is made.

"We are planning to have one more chat with Felix Magath, afterwards we are going to make a decision on the future," Carbon told Sport 360.

"I think the transfer will be going through in the new week."

Grafite scored 28 goals and was named German Footballer of the Year when the Wolves won the 2009 Bundesliga title.

Last season Grafite, who has been capped four times by Brazil, managed just nine goals as Wolfsburg narrowly avoided relegation.

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Maxi Rodriguez eyes Argentina return

Liverpool winger Maxi Rodriguez could be on his way back to Argentina after admitting he has always wanted to return to boyhood club Newell's Old Boys.

The 30-year-old came through the youth set-up to play three first-team seasons for the Rosario-based side before moving to Espanyol in 2002.

"When I left here, I knew I was coming back," Rodriguez told Argentinian newspaper La Capital.

"The president [William Lorenzo] called me and I said yes. Now it depends on the contract I have in Liverpool, maybe that can be loosened a little."

Despite a successful end to the campaign with Liverpool, scoring two hat-tricks as he hit seven goals in three matches, Rodriguez is likely to be only a fringe player next season.

As manager Kenny Dalglish looks to freshen up his squad and bring in younger players Rodriguez's age is likely to count against him and, as one of the club's higher earners, owners Fenway Sports Group would prefer to get better value for money from new signings.

However, the player would have to take a significant drop in salary in order to return to his homeland.

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Gullit baffled by 'bizzare' dismissal

Ruud Gullit admits he has been left bemused by the events surrounding his dismissal as coach of Russian side Terek Grozny.

The former Chelsea and Newcastle boss was relieved of his duties after just five months in charge on Tuesday following Terek's 1-0 defeat at Amkar Perm, which left them third from bottom in the Premier Liga with three wins from 13 games.

Terek president Ramzan Kadyrov, who is also the Chechen leader, had warned Gullit that defeat would result in his axing after complaining the 48-year-old had been more concerned with "thinking about bars and discos".

And the Dutchman, who claims he found out about his sacking from the Dutch media, finds the situation slightly comical.

"This is all such a crazy story," he told AD Sportwereld.

"I don't know if I've been fired, but I've already said goodbye.

"I really have to laugh. I knew this was no ordinary country and no ordinary football league. But it's all been too bizarre for words.

"First the president threatens me, then we lose by a last-minute own goal and then I find out from Holland that I'm fired.

"What can I do other than see the humour in it all? I knew I would be dismissed even if we'd won."

However, the former Holland international has no misgivings about accepting the role in the first place.

"I have no regrets. At least my presence put Terek Grozny on the map - nobody had ever heard of the club," Gullit added.

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Chelsea still chasing Palermo's Pastore

Chelsea are still pursuing Javier Pastore but face competition from Barcelona and Real Madrid, Palermo have confirmed.

The Argentina star has caught the eye of the managerless Blues as they look to add a creative force to their midfield, with Tottenham's Luka Modric another reported target.

Palermo are aware of Chelsea's interest in 22-year-old Pastore, but claim La Liga giants Barca and Real are also gunning for his signature.

"Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona want Pastore," Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini was quoted as saying in The Sun.

"I told his agent to see what market there is for the player and he has probably spoken to some clubs.

"At the end of the week we will meet to shed a bit of light on the future of the player."

Zamparini has slapped a €50million (£44m) price tag on Pastore, who is contracted at Palermo until 2014, and is thought to be unwilling to sell him to a rival Serie A club.

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Colaco: I will prove myself

Stop-gap Indian football team coach Armando Colaco is unfazed by negative talks over his appointment.

By Derek Michael

Armando Colaco has a legacy to live up to as he takes over the reins of Indian football. He can look up to his record at the Dempo Football Club for inspiration. His man management skills have earned praises from many top players.

Colaco, however, still has the highest regard for his predecessor Bob Houghton, who took India to their first Asian Cup appearance in over 20 years. In his first interaction with reporters in New Delhi as national team boss, the Goan said "I've the highest regard for Bob, but my challenge now lies in working with what I have rather than complain about what I don't. I have the respect of the players and I am looking forward to the challenge".

Colaco will be in the hotseat for just four months as he is still under contract with Dempo. The former I-League champions have released him only for a short period. "Four months is enough to prove myself. I will try to incorporate my own style and hope everything turns out good. AIFF can give me an extension if they are happy with the outcome", he added, tongue-in-cheek.

Indian football may have taken a step back with the early departure of Houghton, but Colaco’s arrival could see a brand of football that has seen Dempo win I-League titles twice in the past three years.

Colaco has also taken Dempo to the AFC Champions League four times. The style of play employed at Dempo has won Colaco many accolades. "If my current style can bring success to Dempo, surely it can help the Indian team. It's about making small adjustments (to players’ natural style) and not tamper with it completely", added a cheerful Colaco.

The national camp for the World Cup qualifier against UAE next month starts at the Ambedkar Stadium from Thursday. Forty-two probables will go through their paces under Colaco’s watchful eyes.

India are also expected to play four international friendlies. They play Maldives (July 10) and Qatar (July 17), while 2 more games are in the pipeline with the AIFF negotiating a date with other federations.

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Lazio determined to keep Lichtsteiner

Lazio president Claudio Lotito insists that Juventus target Stephan Lichtsteiner is not on the market.

Reports in Italy claim that Juve are close to acquiring the Switzerland international, who is under contract with Lazio for a further season.

However, Lotito told Gazzetta dello Sport: "The player is not on the market.

"He has a buy-out clause of 12million euros but has not asked to leave for Juventus.

"We have a good rapport with the player,.

"Should he ask to leave and if the conditions are there, we would try to make him happy."

The 27-year-old full-back joined Lazio from Lille in the summer of 2008.

Juve are looking to strengthen their defensive line, which was one of their main weaknesses last term.

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Quinn dismisses 'embarassing' Gyan talk

Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn on Wednesday moved to dismiss speculation that striker Asamoah Gyan has been offered for sale.

The Black Cats reacted swiftly to claims that the 25-year-old Ghana international's name has been circulated to prospective purchasers.

In a statement, Quinn said: "The suggestion that we have spoken to an agent to sell this player on our behalf is embarrassing to all concerned.

"I hope our fans would be smart enough to realise that this is probably some other club or outside agent's way of attempting to destabilise our relationship with one of our players."

A report suggested Gyan was being put up for sale to help fund a summer spending spree.

His situation has been in the spotlight for several weeks amid reports that Tottenham could be ready to test Sunderland's resolve to hang on to him this summer.

The former Rennes striker headed for the Stadium of Light in a £13million-plus move from Rennes last summer and scored 11 goals in his first campaign on Wearside.

Manager Steve Bruce bought him to partner Darren Bent in attack, although his plans had to be ripped up when the England international left for Aston Villa in January.

Bruce's focus since has been the search for a player to complement the African and he has been linked with a long list of names, with Spurs pair Peter Crouch and Roman Pavlyuchenko prominent among them.

The noises about Gyan's future have refused to go away, but with loan signing Danny Welbeck having returned to Manchester United and Fraizer Campbell facing most of next season on the sidelines with another serious knee injury, the club's striking resources are all but exhausted.

If they did decide to cash in on a man on whom they could expect to make a profit, it would leave the manager with an entire attacking unit to rebuild and another major gap to plug following midfielder Jordan Henderson's departure for Liverpool.

Bruce is already heavily engaged in his search for reinforcements, with deals for Liverpool's David Ngog and South Korea international Ji Dong-won close to being finalised.

Elsewhere, he has been given permission to talk to Manchester United trio Darron Gibson, Wes Brown and John O'Shea after lodging a joint bid totalling more than £12million.

The Black Cats have been encouraged by the reaction from the Gibson camp, but Brown is understood to be considering his options while O'Shea will perhaps take the most persuading to leave Old Trafford.

Sunderland have also registered an interest in Birmingham midfielder Craig Gardner, who is certain to attract interest from other Barclays Premier League clubs, although derby rivals Newcastle insist they will not be among them.

Asked about his future, Gardner said: "I don't know. It's a difficult one.

"I'm unsure exactly what is happening behind the scenes and what the board are thinking.

"Where are we going, what are we planning to do? I don't know.

"At the end of the day, like every player, you have to think of your career. Everything is up in the air at the moment."

Bruce also hopes to push through Bosman free transfer deals for Coventry keeper Keiren Westwood and Birmingham midfielder Sebastian Larsson after wasting no time in making his interest known.

Quinn said: "What I can say is that we are in a number of meaningful negotiations to bring players in and when there's anything definitive to report, it will be on our club website for our fans to read."

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Newcastle closing in on Barnetta

Newcastle are reportedly stepping up in their chase of Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta.

Barnetta, one of the Swiss national team's star players was last seen in action scoring two freekicks in Switzerland's 2-2 draw with England at Wembley in an Euro 2012 qualifier.

And according to The Daily Mail, Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has seen enough to be convinced that the midfielder would be an excellent addition as the club prepares for their second season back in the Barclays Premier League.

Newcastle finished this past campaign a respectable 12th in the Premier League despite much upheaval at St James Park, with the £35milllion departure of Andy Carroll and the sacking of former manager Chris Hughton causing much unrest within the club.

However, Barnetta is reportedly ready to leave Leverkusen after seven seasons with the German Bundesliga outfit, and could be looking to try his hand in English football.

The paper further suggests that Barnetta could be available for a fee of £6million.

The wide midfielder has played in both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, and has clocked up 59 caps for Switzerland.

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Leonardo may leave Inter, Bielsa contacted (Reuters)

* Leonardo linked with PSG sporting director role

* Ex-Argentina and Chile boss Bielsa contacted by Inter

FILE - In this May 22, 2011 fi…
AP - Jun 15, 6:36 am EDT

(adds details, quotes)

MILAN, June 15 (Reuters) - Inter Milan coach Leonardo may leave and former Argentina boss Marcelo Bielsa has been contacted about possibly replacing him, the Serie A club’s president Massimo Moratti said on Wednesday.

Leonardo, who only took over at Inter in December before his side missed out on a sixth straight Serie A title when ex-club AC Milan won the scudetto, has been linked in the media with a sporting director job at another former team Paris St Germain.

“I believe there has been a first contact with Bielsa, but not by me,” Moratti told reporters having denied the rumours on Tuesday.

“Leonardo has coached with a lot of desire and passion but his aspirations for the future are not certain.

“It suits him to follow his dream and for us to look for a new coach. But it could well be that Leonardo changes his mind and we do too.”

Brazilian Leonardo led Milan to third place in Serie A in the 2009/10 season in his first job as a coach having been a director at the Rossoneri.

He left after clashing with Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi over tactics while there were also reports he wanted to spend more time with his children in Brazil.

Italian football was stunned when he suddenly reappeared as coach of Milan’s great rivals Inter in December after Rafael Benitez was sacked after just half a season in charge.

Inter, who won the treble under Jose Mourinho in 2010, struggled with Benitez as boss and improved under Leonardo but his tactics were criticised when losing to Milan in Serie A and Schalke in the Champions League quarter-finals as holders.

Argentine Bielsa has been out of work since leaving as Chile coach in February.

The 55-year-old, whose unconventional methods have found fame, bossed Argentina from 1998 to 2004 but failed to win a major trophy.

His only experience in Europe was a short spell with Spain’s Espanyol in 1998.

PSG, where Leonardo played in 1996-97, were recently bought by Qatari investors and reports in France have said Leonardo has held talks about reviving their fortunes as a sporting director.

(Writing by Mark Meadows; Editing by Justin Palmer

To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)

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Lyon close to firing coach Claude Puel (AP)

PARIS (AP)—Lyon and Claude Puel have failed to settle their differences during a mediation session, likely ending the coach’s tenure at the French league club.

Puel and Lyon officials met in Paris under the supervision of the French league juridical commission on Wednesday. The head of the commission, Andre Soulier, said both parties failed to agree on a common future and that the club is now entitled to end its relationship with Puel.

Soulier said the juridical commission “ratified the divorce decision between both parties.”

Lyon hasn’t won any silverware since Puel took over from Alain Perrin, who led Lyon to the league and French Cup double in 2007-08.

Puel has a year left on his contract.

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Former Portugal striker Nuno Gomes to leave Benfica (Reuters)

LISBON, June 15 (Reuters) - Former Portugal striker Nuno Gomes is set to leave Benfica after spending a total 12 years at the club, the player said on Wednesday.

“I was informed that Benfica will not renew my contract,” Gomes said in a statement. “I am now free to analyse offers”.

The UEFA Europa League Trophy …
Getty Images - May 18, 2:08 pm EDT

Media reports in Portugal have linked the striker with a move to Europa League runners-up Braga.

The 34 year-old is the Portugal national side’s fourth top goalscorer with 29 goals from 77 appearances. He joined Benfica in 1997 and played almost 300 matches for the club, scoring over 100 goals and winning two Portuguese league titles.

He impressed at Euro 2000, scoring four goals as Portugal reached the semi-finals, and earned a move to Fiorentina, where he spent two seasons before returning to Benfica.

The striker has struggled of late to find a place in Benfica’s starting lineup, with Paraguay’s Oscar Cardozo and Argentine Javier Saviola keeping him out.

He was on the bench for most of last season but still scored five goals in seven appearances. (Reporting by Daniel Alvarenga; Editing by Brian Homewood; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)

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Leonardo considering leaving Inter for PSG (AP)

MILAN (AP)—Inter Milan is in touch with Argentine coach Marcelo Bielsa as a possible replacement for Leonardo, who has been linked to a move to Paris Saint-Germain.

Inter President Massimo Moratti announced the moves on Wednesday following days of speculation that Leonardo might leave the Serie A club to take up a general director post at PSG.

FILE - In this May 22, 2011 fi…
AP - Jun 15, 6:36 am EDT

Moratti said Leonardo had “a lot of good will and passion” as coach, but added that “this certainly isn’t his aspiration for the future.”

“It’s best that he follow that aspiration and that we look for a new coach,” Moratti said on Inter’s website. However, he added, “it’s always possible that Leonardo changes his mind, and so do we.”

Gazzetta dello Sport said on Wednesday that Leonardo went to Doha for talks with officials of Qatar Sports Investments, which recently acquired a 70 percent ownership stake in PSG. The report said a decision on Leonardo’s future might come as soon as Thursday.

Moratti said there had been preliminary contacts with Bielsa, a former coach of Argentina and Chile, though he wasn’t directly involved. He had previously denied any such contacts.

Inter won the Italian Cup this season.

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Fabregas 'frustrated' with not winning at Arsenal (AP)

MADRID (AP)—Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas says he is “frustrated” with not having won titles with the English club.

According to Spanish media reports, Fabregas said at a publicity event on Wednesday that “any player who says that he is not frustrated with not having won titles is lying. I am ambitious.”

(FILES) This file picture take…
Getty Images - Jun 9, 7:48 am EDT

Arsenal has not won a major trophy in six seasons.

The 24-year-old Fabregas is again the focus of transfer rumors linking him with his boyhood club Barcelona.

The Spain midfielder says “Barca is the best team in the world and going there guarantees titles,” adding that Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger makes all decisions on transfers.

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Iraqi football elections delayed until Saturday (AP)

BAGHDAD (AP)—Iraqi Football Association officials say they are delaying elections slated for Thursday until Saturday following the death of a longtime Iraqi club manager.

Najeh Hamoud, the deputy secretary of the IFA, told The Associated Press on Wednesday about the delay.

He and other Iraqi football officials said the date was changed because many of the federation members would be attending funeral services on Thursday for a club manager from the northern province of Dohuk who died Tuesday.

Hamoud said FIFA, football’s international governing body, approved the date change.

FIFA did not respond to requests for comment.

This is the second time the elections have been delayed this month.

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One-man-band Ricki Herbert rolls up sleeves

SAM WORTHINGTON

No assistant coaches, no physio, no worries for Ricki Herbert, with the Wellington Phoenix coach vowing to roll up his sleeves and take a more hands-on approach this preseason.

A lean Phoenix squad and staff returned to the training paddock this week after three months off with plenty of time to prepare for their A-League opener on October 9.

Just 14 players are on the books, with Herbert hoping to lock in six more by the end of August.

Assistant coaches Luciano Trani and Jonathan Gould, physio Adam Crump and strength and conditioning coach Paul Nancarrow have all departed.

But Herbert is relaxed, given that the spine of a competitive team is still intact, and without his assistants to lean on, is look-ing forward to getting his hands dirty.

Last season, Herbert often adopted a more managerial approach with Trani, in particular, and Gould, heavily involved during training sessions.

"If I feel that the right person is out there [as assistant coach] and we make that contact and we can get that over the line, then great," Herbert said at Newtown Park yesterday. "But I'm in no hurry, I've explained the situation to the players and I'm kind of enjoying being on the grass myself.

"Maybe that might be a sign for this year, I enjoy it, they're a great group of guys and we're going to add some new faces to it.

"We'll see what the makeup of the staff looks like but at this stage we're fine, we're comfortable."

All Whites physio Roland Jeffery is in Wellington conducting interviews for the vacant Phoenix physio position, and Herbert wants a sports scientist in place by July 1.

The Phoenix's two off-season recruits, winger Lucas Pantelis and fullback Jimmy Downey, have reported for duty with Herbert optimistic about their potential.

"Lucas is very passionate, very pleased to be here and he's played a lot of games and has captained a very good Adelaide side. And Jimmy had good experience and time with Perth, in an era when they had a very good side. So I think they're two very good acquisitions."

Those hoping for some blockbuster signings will have to wait as Herbert takes his time filling out the roster but former North Queensland defender Jack Hingert and an Adelaide-based Nigerian midfielder who goes by the name Saka are both on trial for under-21 positions.

Saka made an impression during a training game yesterday, clattering into Manny Muscat and Vince Lia, but Hingert appears the more likely prospect.

"Jack has had good experience, 29 caps for the Fury and he's very solid and safe and has done a good job. We're looking for a fullback that can play either side so we'll see.

"Saka, we've had some pretty good recommendations and he's here for a month and we'll see how he goes."

Herbert is planning to open the Phoenix's preseason campaign with a game against local opposition on July 6.

AT A GLANCE

On the books: Mark Paston, Andrew Durante, Ben Sigmund, Tony Lochhead, Jimmy Downey, Manny Muscat, Vince Lia, Tim Brown, Leo Bertos, Lucas Pantelis, Daniel, Paul Ifill, Chris Greenacre, Mirjan Pavlovic Gone: Danny Vukovic, Reece Crowther, Jade North, James Musa, Troy Hearfield, Marco Rojas, Nick Ward, Diego, Toto, Dylan Macallister

Wanted: Goalkeeper, striker, attacking midfielder (all senior), fullback, central defender, midfielder (all youth)

Kickoff: vs Gold Coast United at Skilled Park, October 9
First home game: vs Newcastle Jets at Westpac Stadium, October 16

- The Dominion Post

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US looks to wrap up quarterfinal spot (AP)

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP)—The United States needs a strong showing against tiny but tenacious Guadeloupe to advance in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

“It would be nice to cruise through the group and be able to put your feet up,” goalkeeper Tim Howard said after Monday’s training session at Livestrong Sporting Park. “It doesn’t always happen that way.”

Saturday’s 2-1 loss to Panama, its first group-stage defeat, left the U.S. in second place, tied with Canada on points but ahead on goal differential.

United States midfielder Clint…
AP - Jun 13, 7:28 pm EDT

Regardless of the outcome of the early match between Canada and Group C leader Panama, a victory will guarantee the U.S. a quarterfinal berth. Under some circumstances, the U.S. would advance even with a 1-goal loss.

If Canada and the U.S. both win Tuesday, three teams will have six points each and all three will advance. But the third-place finisher will have to face Group A winner Mexico, which dominated its first three matches, in the quarterfinals.

With so much on the line, Panama coach Julio Dely Valdes insists his team won’t ease up against Canada.

“We’ll look at it the same as any other game,” Dely Valdes said through a translator. “We want to win it and we want to be first in the group. This is a process, and you always want to win it.”

While Panama is riding high going into the last group game, U.S. midfielder Landon Donovan said the Americans have to put aside the disappointment of Saturday’s loss.

“If you want to be one of the teams standing at the end, it’s a marathon,” he said. “You have to be careful not to get caught up in one result, one way or the other, in a group stage.”

No matter the result of the early match, U.S. coach Bob Bradley said his team has to focus on avoiding a repeat of its slow start against Panama.

“We’re going out with mentality to win this game,” Bradley said. “Our response after a game we weren’t satisfied with is important.”

The U.S., 22nd in the most recent FIFA rankings, is a heavy favorite against Guadeloupe, a small French possession in the Caribbean. Guadeloupe is not a FIFA member and competes only at the regional level.

That said, Guadeloupe—unlike the other two last-place teams in group play — has not been a pushover, with a goal differential of only minus-2 despite playing a man down for much of its first two games.

“We’re frustrated,” said midfielder Stephone Auvray, who plays for Sporting Kansas City in Major League Soccer. “If we had played a full team in one of those matches, things could be different now. Hopefully, tomorrow we’ll be able to do it.”

Guadeloupe’s determination and its strong history in the Gold Cup— including a run to the semifinals in 2007—certainly has the Americans’ respect.

“It’s not going to be an easy game,” U.S. forward Clint Dempsey said. “They want to win and they have a good team.”

Still, the U.S. does have a recent history of clutch performances in the last round of group play.

Two years ago in the Confederations Cup, the Americans needed—and got—a 3-0 win over Egypt to get out of the group stage on their way to a runner-up finish. Last year, the U.S. drew in its first two World Cup matches before Donovan’s late goal against Algeria gave it the points it needed to move on.

“Our teams have always come back really well,” Bradley said, “from games when we haven’t been at our best.”

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Levein confirms McBean interest

Levein is aiming to ensure Scotland do not miss out on future talent Scotland coach Craig Levein admits that American 16-year-old Jack McBean is one of a number of players on his radar as he searches for fresh talent.

McBean played for United States at the Under-17 World Cup, but the Los Angeles Galaxy striker's parents are Scottish.

"He's a young lad and he's one of a number we are looking at," said Levein.

"We are looking quite extensively, all over the globe almost, to try to find the people who are eligible to play for the national team."

Scotland's chief scout, Michael Oliver, confirmed at the weekend that McBean is a player the Scots are keeping tabs on.

"Michael spoke to his father," said Levein. "If he does qualify to play for Scotland, it would be between the player, his parents and ourselves.

"There is no need to go through US Soccer.

"We just have to find out if he wants to play for Scotland and if he does then we can progress it."

Levein's regime are anxious not to miss out again on the likes of Stuart Holden, the Bolton Wanderers midfielder who plays for the USA's senior side despite being born in Aberdeen.

However, the national coach stressed that the international future of the USA-born striker who played in the youth World Cup finals in Mexico remains in the early stages.

"He's just a young lad whose name came up," added Levein.

"He's got a contract in the States and he's of a standard that would be of interest to us.

"But he's just a kid and he's a long way away from playing full international football.

"It's an example of just how wide the net is that we are using to try to catch people."

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Ferguson asked Scholes to play on

Diminishing influence led Scholes to retire

Paul Scholes has revealed that Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson wanted the midfielder to prolong his playing career.

The 36-year-old, who won 10 Premier League titles with United, announced his retirement in May.

He told BBC Sport: "The manager felt I could do 15 to 20 games next season.

"Physically I was not feeling great in training or the games towards the end of the season. I came to this decision which I think is the right one."

Scholes made the last of his 676 appearances for the Red Devils in the 3-1 Champions League final defeat by Barcelona at Wembley.

The former England international, who made his United debut in 1994, will now take up a coaching role at Old Trafford.

"I've been lucky to have a lot of good years," he added. "I think I always thought I would know when the time was right - and I felt the time was right to call it a day.

"It wasn't a hard decision because I know how my body felt and how my head felt as well."

When Scholes announced his retirement, Ferguson called the former England international "a truly unbelievable player", while chief executive David Gill said he had "established himself as one of the greatest players to ever wear the United shirt".

But Scholes, who was a member of the United team that won the Champions League in 2008, feels he is not irreplaceable at Old Trafford.

"He [Ferguson] will have his own ideas on the way the team goes forward," said Scholes.

"There have been a lot of players who have left this club. Look at Roy Keane, Mark Hughes, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona. You think how do you replace them but somehow this club will always do that."

Scholes scores stunner in 1998 World Cup

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Suarez eyes Liverpool title bid

Suarez scored four goals in 13 games after joining Liverpool in January Luis Suarez says Liverpool can compete for the Premier League title next season if they repeat the form they showed in the second half of last term.

The Reds picked up 34 points from 18 games following Kenny Dalglish's return to Anfield as manager in January.

"The form we showed over the second half of the season bodes well," the Uruguay striker told LFC weekly.

But captain Steven Gerrard said: "Getting in the Champions League will be the main aim."

Gerrard, who missed the last three months of the campaign after groin surgery, added: "It would be stupid of me to raise expectations any more than they are already.

"At the beginning of every season at Liverpool, expectations rise and now that Kenny is staying and with a few signings I'm sure it'll go through the roof.

"We just need to continue what we've been doing during the last six months.

"Hopefully we'll add some more players to strengthen the squad and then we need to compete.

"We are good enough to beat anyone on our day, we just need to find the consistency to challenge for honours."

Dalglish took over for a second spell in charge on Merseyside following the departure of Roy Hodgson and signed a new three-year contract in May.

If Liverpool had repeated the form they produced under the 60-year-old over the entire season, they would have ended the campaign on 71 points - level with second-placed Chelsea.

Suarez, a £22.7m arrival from Ajax in January, said: "We've been playing well and I think we've been getting into the type of form that we know we'll have to keep up for a whole season if we want to be title contenders.

"This is something we're optimistic about for next season and if we can hit the ground running and maintain the good form, then I think we've got a good chance of doing well."

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Cerezo Osaka's Takashi Inui likely to move to Germany's Bundesliga in the summer (Goal.com)

Cerezo Osaka manager Levir Culpi has confirmed there is interest in young attacking midfielder Takashi Inui, following reports he's set for a summer transfer to Germany.

Japanese website Nikkan Sports has reported the 23-year-old, who has scored four goals in this season's AFC Champions League, is likely to move to Schalke 04 or FC Cologne.

Both clubs already feature Japanese players, Atsudo Uchida at Schalke, and Tomoaki Makino at Cologne.

Brazilian boss Culpi said: "There are many [European] clubs interested in Inui. He will leave as soon as a deal is done, so I am already giving chances to other players."

Inui is a product of the prestigious Yasu High School and played for Yokohama F. Marinos before transferring to Cerezo in 2008.

The 23-year-old has been capped three times for Japan's senior national team.

For all the latest transfer news visit Goal.com's Transfer Zone and join Goal.com USA's Facebook fan page

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Man Utd sign Jones from Blackburn

Jones has finally tied down a move from Ewood Park to Old Trafford

Manchester United have sealed a five-year contract for Blackburn defender Phil Jones in a deal believed to be worth up to £17m.

The England Under-21 centre-half had a medical with United on 8 June before a late hitch delayed the transfer.

And despite offers from Arsenal and Liverpool, the 19-year-old insisted he only wanted a move to Old Trafford.

"It's a once in a lifetime opportunity and I'm looking forward to a new challenge," Jones said on Twitter.

Match of the Day analysis of Jones playing for Blackburn against Man Utd last year

"I'd just like to say that I've loved my time at Blackburn and I will always be a huge fan."

A United statement said the club were "delighted" to conclude the transfer.

"The player passed a medical in Manchester last week and has agreed a five-year contract," the statement read.

"The deal will be completed once the player returns from international duty."

Jones only made his Premier League debut in March last year but has made a big impact in his first full season and featured for the England U21s in the 1-1 draw with their Spanish counterparts on Sunday.

Several United players expressed delight on their Twitter accounts on Monday afternoon after hearing about their new team-mate.

Striker Wayne Rooney said: "Welcome to Man Utd Phil Jones. Looking forward to playing with u," while defender Rio Ferdinand said: "Welcome to Phil Jones. Another top young talent joining the club. The future is bright."

Blackburn boss Steve Kean revealed the club had made a "staggering" offer in an attempt to keep hold of their star defender.

"Phil wants to play Champions League football now and we're not at that level," Kean said.

"I'm sure we will be in the coming years, and we gave it a real good try and made him a fantastic offer, but I understand why he wants to go now.

"He goes with our blessing and it's an opportunity for us to invest in other young players across other areas of the pitch.

"We were hoping he was going to be captain of our club and captain of England, he's a fantastic prospect and I'm sure he'll be an England regular very soon."

The teenager will face a battle to immediately break into United's first team with Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic the clear first choice for the centre-half spots.

Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans are also competing for places at the heart of Sir Alex Ferguson's defence.

A string of fine performances by Jones helped Blackburn end their season with a four-game unbeaten run, which included a 1-1 draw with United and wins over Bolton and Wolves, to guide them to Premier League survival.

Preston-born Jones joined Blackburn's youth set-up in 2002, making his debut in a Carling Cup win at Nottingham Forest in September 2009. His first Premier League appearance came six months later in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Ewood Park.

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Forest appoint McClaren as boss

Money will be available to McClaren - Arthur

Nottingham Forest have appointed former England boss Steve McClaren as their new manager on a three-year contract.

The 50-year-old replaces Billy Davies, who was sacked by the Championship club on Sunday.

McClaren's last club job in England was with Middlesbrough, while he has also had spells in charge of Dutch side FC Twente and Wolfsburg in Germany.

"Steve has a proven record of coaching and managing at club level," said Forest chief executive Mark Arthur.

"The club moved quickly to secure his services as it is rare for a manager and coach of his undoubted calibre to become available."

Former England coach McClaren will be officially unveiled by Forest at a news conference on Thursday.

His appointment comes after Davies paid the price for the club's failure in the Championship play-offs for the second season in a row.

Forest football consultant David Pleat believes McClaren's experience of coaching abroad will stand him in good stead.

"The point about Steve McClaren is that he's tested himself," Pleat told BBC Radio 5 live.

Continue reading the main story 1995: Becomes assistant to Jim Smith at Derby after spell as Oxford Utd youth team coach1999: Moves to Man Utd as number two to Sir Alex FergusonFebruary 2001: Joins Sven-Goran Eriksson's coaching set-up with England June 2001: Appointed as Middlesbrough managerFebruary 2004: Wins Carling Cup with 2-1 win over Bolton in finalMay 2006: Named as Eriksson's successor as England bossNovember 2007: Sacked by England after failing to reach Euro 2008June 2008: Returns to management with FC TwenteMay 2010: Wins Dutch title before switching to Bundesliga side WolfsburgFebruary 2011: Parts company with Wolfsburg after poor resultsJune 2011: Appointed as Nottingham Forest boss

"He's come back from a difficult experience with England where had it not been for a goalkeeper mistake [by Paul Robinson in Croatia] and the rain that night [against Croatia at Wembley] which meant having to put up an umbrella, he wouldn't have been ridiculed."

"But he's fought back terrifically well to get a championship [with FC Twente] against PSV and Ajax. He's been doing what he does best - coaching - and we shouldn't underestimate him.

"I think he's done his miles and certainly deserves the opportunity to be at a club that is well run, progressive and will get into the Premier League. How soon? No one knows. They've just missed it for two years running but they're close and I'm sure the club is in good hands."

McClaren's remarkable success with Twente - winning the club's first domestic league title - in the Netherlands helped to rehabilitate a reputation badly undermined by his unsuccessful 16-month spell as England boss.

England failed to reach the 2008 European Championship after a mediocre qualifying campaign concluded with a disastrous 3-2 defeat by Croatia on a wet night at Wembley.

McClaren, a former Hull, Bristol City and Oxford United midfielder, began his coaching career with Derby before moving on to work under Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

His success at Old Trafford, including the 1999 Treble-winning season, led to him taking his first managerial position with Middlesbrough in 2001.

McClaren won the Carling Cup in 2004 to earn Boro their first major trophy and also led the Teesiders to the Uefa Cup final in 2006 before replacing Sven-Goran Eriksson as England boss.

The Yorkshireman had recently been linked with vacancies at Aston Villa and Fulham, while Twente - who are in next season's Champions League - were interested in bringing him back to the Netherlands, despite his struggles with Wolfsburg.

"He realises he has to prove his managerial capabilities all over again in England, despite the lure of a more lucrative offer from his former club FC Twente," said BBC Radio 5 live's Midlands football reporter Pat Murphy.

"With Billy Davies leaving behind a talented squad, Forest will be short odds for promotion next May."

Forest were relegated from the top flight in 1999 and have been unable to claw their way back, with their spell in the Football League including three seasons in League One from 2005 to 2008.

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Enrique delay frustrates Pardew

Doubts continue over whether Enrique will play at St James' Park next season Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew has revealed his concerns over the future of defender Jose Enrique, who is yet to sign a new contract.

The 25-year-old has one season left on his current deal and has been the subject of reported interest from Premier League and European clubs.

Pardew told the Evening Chronicle: "At the moment, it looks like he doesn't want to deal with us.

"We've been asked to make an offer but there has been no progress since then."

Having secured the club's Premier League status in May, the Magpies boss made it a top priority to keep hold of Enrique and influential midfielders such as Kevin Nolan and Joey Barton.

With skipper Nolan rejecting the offer currently on the table and Barton not having his contract renewed, Pardew's playing staff for next season appears to be very uncertain.

Pardew, who has already expressed his desire to retain Enrique, a £6.3m signing from Villarreal in August 2007, added: "I still hope we can do something but at the moment, we are still waiting for Jose."

At the start of May, Enrique insisted he was happy to continue as a Newcastle player.

Enrique discusses playing at Newcastle in May

However, the former Spain Under-21 full-back added: "If I have to go to another club, I'm happy in England. If I have to go to another league, I'm happy. I just want to play football - it's my life and it's best for me."

Enrique was one of the players who, like Nolan, Barton and Fabricio Coloccini, opted to remain with the club despite relegation in 2009, while Obafemi Martins, Damien Duff and Michael Owen were among the players to move on.

It is not all bad news for Pardew, who recently acquired Lille midfielder Yohan Cabaye and is hopeful of signing Swansea left-back Neil Taylor.

Pardew said: "Things are definitely moving on now and we expect to be busier between now and the start of the season. We are working very hard on one or two players and we hope to announce something soon."

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Hilario signs Chelsea extension

Hilario has made 37 appearances for Chelsea since joining the club in 2006 Chelsea have handed a new one-year contract to goalkeeper Henrique Hilario.

The 35-year-old's contract was due to expire this summer, but the Portuguese will now spend a sixth season at Stamford Bridge.

Hilario, who has made 37 appearances for the club, has struggled to dislodge regular keeper Petr Cech.

Last season he played just one game - in the 3-1 defeat to Manchester United in the Community Shield at Wembley.

Hilario arrived at the club as third choice keeper in 2006 having enjoyed two spells at Porto, where he played under former Blues boss Jose Mourinho, and a stint at Nacional.

Soon after his arrival at the club, injuries to Cech and Carlo Cudicini in the same game meant Hilario's Chelsea debut came against European champions Barcelona in the Champions League, Hilario keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory.

Cudicini's departure to Tottenham in January 2009 promoted the Portuguese to second choice behind Cech but the signing of Ross Turnbull from Middlesborough later that summer intensified the competition for starts.

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Jamaica, Honduras, Guatemala advance at Gold Cup (AP)

HARRISON, New Jersey (AP)—Jamaica, Honduras and Guatemala finished the Gold Cup group stage Monday claiming three of the eight available quarterfinals berths.

Ryan Johnson scored a lucky first-half goal that bounced off the keeper’s head as Jamaica defeated Honduras 1-0 to top Group B.

The 58th-ranked Jamaica won all three of its group matches and will now play the second-place finisher in Group C—possibly the United States—on Sunday.

Jamaica routed Grenada 4-0 whi…
AFP - Jun 7, 2:16 am EDT

Honduras, which also advances as the group’s second-placed team, plays Costa Rica on Saturday.

Both teams were assured of quarterfinals berths before the kickoff, while Guatemala beat Grenada 4-0 to reach its first Gold Cup quarterfinals since 2007 as one of the best performed third-placed teams of the group stage. It will learn its opponent after Group C wraps up on Tuesday.

Johnson got the winner for Jamaica in the 36th minute after cutting across the middle of the Honduran defense. He fired a shot off the crossbar from roughly 28 yards (meters) and the ball bounced down and struck the back of Noel Valladares’ head and went into the net.

“It’s one of the strangest goals, but it’s a goal,” said Johnson. “The best thing was getting the clean sheet. We haven’t been scored on so far and I’m really happy about that.”

Valladares, Honduras’ keeper at the World Cup, got a measure of revenge in the 72nd minute when he made a diving stop on a penalty kick by Johnson. Play was delayed for a couple of minutes before the attempt because angry Honduran fans in the sellout crowd of 25,000 at Red Bull Arena littered the field with glass and plastic bottles after referee Joel Aguilar of El Salvador awarded the penalty.

“I’m satisfied with how we played,” Honduras coach Luis Fernando Suarez said. “I’m not satisfied we lost. But the way the team played. We have a lot of potential. I like what I saw today.”

Marco Pappa scored one goal and set up another for Guatemala, while Jose Del Aguila, Carlos Ruiz and Carlos Gallardo also scored.

“More than anything, this was a psychological and mental game,” Guatemala coach Ever Hugo Almeida said. “We had to score a specific number of goals. We needed three goals, but we had to take it goal by goal. We were able to manage the game and get the result we wanted.”

Guatemala lost 3-0 to Canada in its previous appearance in the Gold Cup quarterfinals.

Grenada finished last in Group B, losing all three of its games by a combined score of 15-1. It has been outscored 25-1 in two Gold Cup competitions.

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