Andy Murray out of Rome Masters after straight-sets defeat to David Ferrer

By Mike Dickson

When in Rome: David Ferrer beat Andy Murray in straight-sets


Andy Murray suffered his fourth defeat in five matches last night, but at least his third-round exit from the Italian Open was not one of the horror shows he has produced over the past month.

The British No 1 was outrallied by Spaniard David Ferrer and lost 6-3, 6-4 to the world No 17, a supremely quick baseliner who dashes around the court like the Duracell bunny.

The scoreline does not make happy reading for Murray, but this was a far more purposeful performance from the world No 5 than in his defeats in Miami and two weeks ago in Monte Carlo.

He was not despondent, saying: 'This tournament has been a step in the right direction. I have felt much better this week.


Down and out: Murray reflects after losing a point


'I was striking the ball at a different level from how I had done in the last two matches. I'm disappointed to have lost but if I keep playing like that then I will start going deep into tournaments again.'

But his travails of late mean Murray's clay-court season could be over before it has properly begun. He is scheduled to play only at the Madrid Masters the week after next before the French Open, where he made the quarter-finals a year ago.

A repeat or better at Roland Garros looks far away, despite signs of improvement against the trickiest thi rd-round opponent possible. You know that facing a Spaniard on clay is likely to be hard work, but Ferrer is one of the last you would want to meet apart from Rafael Nadal at the moment, especially when your confidence is brittle.

It is a sign of the players' form that bookmakers ignored the disparity in rankings to make the Scot a clear underdog, drawing on Ferrer's excellent record on clay this year that has seen him reach the semi-finals in his two previous events.


Man on a mission: David Ferrer has been in good form on clay this season


An avid reader who prides himself on finishing a book per week, Ferrer outlasted Murray in the longer rallies on the steep banked new Centre Court at the historic Foro Italico.

The 22-year-old Briton's first serve also let him down in the first set, Ferrer punishing his second delivery in the sixth game to go 4-2 up and bring winces from his compatriot, Alex Corretja, who is Murray's lead coach on clay.

But there was never any shortage of quality rallies, and it was to the Spaniard's credit that he hung in during the first half of the second set when Murray opened his shoulders and started looking more like the player who reached the Australian Open final three months ago.

At 3-2 down in the second set, Ferrer fought off a break point and then gained a decisive point of his own. Murray did not have the belief when it mattered and threw in unforced errors on crucial points.

The match was over in 96 minutes, leaving the British player searching for momentum ahead of Paris.


source: dailymail

Liverpool 2 Ateltico Madrid 1 (agg 2-2, Ateltico go through on away goals): United flop Forlan dashes hopes of an all-English final

By Matt Lawton

Rescue man: Alberto Aquilani scores Liverpool's first goal, moments before the interval


When the stadium announcer declared at the end of normal time here last night that Fulham had progressed to the final of the Europa League, there was a great roar from the Anfield Kop that suggested Liverpool really fancied their chances of winning this competition.

It was mixed with applause. A sporting 'well done' for that remarkable little team from London. But you could also sense that feeling of anticipation. The misplaced belief that another major European trophy was about to follow for Rafa Benitez

This, however, has not been Benitez's season, on the contrary in fact, and in the end Diego Forlan saw to it that the Spaniard suffered what could be the last crushing setback of his Liverpool reign.



If the Anfield hierarchy really have made no attempt to ask Benitez if he would rather remain their manager than disappear to Juventus, losing like this is unlikely to hurry them into action. Atletico are not a particularly good side, Fulham might like to know, even if Liverpool made them look half decent.

His team were poor here last night, failing to build on an energetic first- half display, and a 44thminute goal from Alberto Aquilani, with a performance that in any way eased the threat of an away goal for the opposition.

They failed even to trouble Atletico's teenage goalkeeper, David de Gea, during the second half, only adding the goal they hoped would prove enough four minutes into extra time. Liverpool's best player on the night, and for some reason taken off by Benitez, Yossi Benayoun scored with a terrific first-time left-foot strike after accelerating on to a delightful chip from Lucas.


Under pressure: Ryan Babel battles with Atletico's Alvaro Dominguez for the ball


That it was Forlan who then delivered the riposte eight minutes later was depressingly predictable. Once a tormentor here in a Manchester United shirt and again in Madrid last week, the Uruguayan forward popped up unmarked to meet a ball from Jose Antonio Reyes with a close-range finish. That Reyes had capitalised on the fact that Glen Johnson lost his footing only added to the damage inflicted on Benitez. Johnson, after all, had been asked to play at left back for the first time at Liverpool.

For once, Liverpool's pain was also shared by Forlan's former United colleagues.

Extra time for Liverpool amounted to the stuff of nightmares for Sir Alex Ferguson's men when they need them to put up a fight against Chelsea on Sunday.


Their confidence shattered by losing in the cruellest fashion imaginable - the away goals rule - Liverpool will struggle to muster any kind of response after this. The season is over and for Benitez the love affair with Liverpool might well be over too.

This did have the feel of a European farewell for the Spaniard. A last continental night for the manager who had proved something of a master when it came to European competition. Two Champions League finals, one of them ending in victory in 2005, looked like it might be followed by a third last night. But alas no. Not in this season of horrors for Benitez.

An avalanche of criticism will now follow. For that early Champions League exit; for those 10 defeats in the Barclays Premier League; for their failure to build on the progress they made the previous season when they finished a close second in the league to United. Fernando Torres might have been missing last night but it is the lack of quality in his squad that has so undermined Liverpool's ambitions. Just look at the bench they had last night. Desperate. Not a Liverpool player among them. Not for a match of this magnitude anyway.

When Aquilani struck, Benitez no doubt felt vindicated. His boy had finally come good. The Italian has been one of the many sticks Benitez has been beaten with this season.


Leading the way: A typically combative Steven Gerrard powers past Paulo Assuncao, as team-mate Yossi Benayoun looks on


Injured so seriously when he arrived that he did not make an appearance in the Premier League until November, it was quickly agreed that he was no substitute for the player he was brought in to replace. The very much missed Xabi Alonso.

Aquilani was dismissed as a waste of £17million the club's American owners clearly don't have; another damning indictment of Benitez's hit-and-miss transfer policy.

But when it really mattered most, in this most absorbing of Europa League semi-finals, he produced an impressive goal to level this tie. It was only his second goal since arriving here last August, but further evidence that he is finally starting to find his feet.

How satisfied Benitez must have felt. How timely given his moan the previous day. A moan that seemed to overlook the fact that those same people he now accuses of ignoring him gave him a bumper new contract last year. That seemed to ignore the contribution his own agent has made in adding to the mystery and intrigue surrounding the possible move to Turin.


Bare cheek: Former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan celebrates his crucial strike for Atletico Madrid


When Benayoun accelerated away from Reyes in pursuit of a Javier Mascherano throw-in - he was at right back in a reshuffled side - Aquilani struck with a first-time shot that should have lifted Liverpool.

But they seemed to run out of steam as well as ideas as the second half wore on and this time they could not even complain about travel fatigue.

Benitez could point to the chance that Dirk Kuyt had already squandered, and a first-half goal that was disallowed when Daniel Agger came from an offside position to divert a Steven Gerrard free-kick past De Gea with a powerful header.

It was evidence that Liverpool did create chances.

But there was none of that fight that for so often typified Benitez's Liverpool.

None of the spirit they drew on in Istanbul and here when they met teams like Olympiakos. Benayoun took his goal beautifully, seizing on that ball from Lucas to crown a fine individual display.

But the strength and resolve they then required was missing when they needed it most. 'He comes from Uruguay, he made the Scousers cry,' was how United's fans used to sing about Forlan. At Anfield this season the tears have flowed far too often.


source:dailymail

Night of history as Fulham make

By Simon Cass and John Edwards

History boys: Fulham celebrate their historic semi-final win at Craven Cottage as Hamburg are left dejected in defeat


Fulham manager Roy Hodgson paid tribute to his players after they pulled off 'a major piece of history' to reach the Europa League final.

With 21 minutes left of their semi-final second leg against Hamburg at Craven Cottage, Hodgson's men were trailing to Mladen Petric's stunning first-half free-kick.

However, Simon Davies produced his own moment of brilliance to bring the scores level on the night and Zoltan Gera poked home a second goal seven minutes later to take Fulham to their first European final.


Hodgson said: 'After going a goal down against the run of play, I think we've made a major piece of history here tonight. That atmosphere is something I think we'll all remember for a long time.'

Fulham will return to Hamburg for the final on May 12, when they will face Atletico Madrid, who beat Liverpool on away goals with an extra-time strike by Diego Forlan.


Full of it: Fulham boss Roy Hodgson revels in victory with his captain Danny Murphy as they can look forward to the final in Hamburg on May 12


The former Manchester United forward played down his played down his vital contribution when he struck towards the end of the first period of extra time at Anfield after Alberto Aquilani and Yossi Benayoun had given the Reds a two-goal lead in the absence of injured star striker Fernando Torres.

The away goal was enough to send Atletico through to the final against Fulham in Hamburg and Forlan said: 'We needed to score - it doesn't matter who is going to score.


Kop that! Diego Forlan celebrates his decisive strike to send Atletico Madrid into the final courtesy of the away goals rule

'It was a really difficult game. We knew they would come after us. They played really well in the first half and they deserved that goal.

'Then they got the second goal and we knew we needed to score one goal. And that was it.'


Down and out: Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard is left to contemplate another night of misery at Anfield this season

Forlan admitted he had feared the worst after Benayoun put Liverpool ahead, saying: 'Yes, of course. They are a strong team, they know how to win."

As for facing Fulham, he added: 'Every team is a difficult game.'



source: dailymail

Frank Lampard gives schoolboy £200 after accidentally running over his bike

By Daily Mail Reporter

Upset: Frank Lampard, seen here in his car with girlfriend Christine Bleakley, was terrified he had injured the schoolboy (file photo)


Frank Lampard gave a young student £200 after accidentally reversing over his bike.
The England footballer managed to hit the 14-year-old schoolboy's BMX bike as he drove his Range Rover in London.

Terrified he had injured the boy, Lampard jumped out of his car and ran to assist the pupil, who was not on the bike at the time and was unhurt

After checking the young boy was fine, Lampard gave him enough money to cover the cost of buying a new bike.

But at least he has stunning Christine Bleakley to comfort him after the distressing situation.

The pair have been dating since early October after they were introduced by Piers Morgan at the Pride of Britain Awards, and their relationship appears to be going from strength to strength.



Doting dad: Frank with daughters Luna and Iva on holiday in Marbella


After taking Christine and her mother Mina out for lunch earlier this month, the couple were also spotted giggling and laughing on a night out with friends last week.

Christine said recently: 'Frank is known for being a very intelligent bloke and obviously I see that as well.

‘That contents me very much. You need someone to be able to have a conversation with you and be on the same wavelength, and he is like that.'

Do you have a story about a celebrity? Call the Daily Mail showbusiness desk on 0207 938 6364 or 0207 938 6683.


source: dailymail

Tiger Woods' 'fling' with young neighbour is final straw for Elin Nordegren after golfer 'confesses to 120 affairs'

By David Gardner

Reflective: Tiger Woods during a news conference yesterday after the Quail Hollow Championship golf tournament in New York


Tiger Woods has confessed to cheating with as many as 120 women behind his wife’s back during their five-year marriage, it was claimed last night.

But a one-night stand with the 21-year-old daughter of a neighbour in Florida was the final straw for Elin Nordegren, according to the National Enquirer magazine in the U.S.

The Enquirer claimed the distraught mother-of-two decided to sign divorce papers after learning it was investigating Woods’ alleged fling with Raychel Coudriet, who he had reportedly known since she was just 14.

The scandal-plagued golfer was said to have listed all the women he bedded as part of his treatment for sex addiction at the Gentle Path rehab centre in Mississippi earlier this year.

These included former Playboy model Loredana Jolie Ferriolo and high paid escort Rachel Uchite.

But a source told the magazine that Woods left his young neighbour off the list.

After learning of the claim, a furious Ms Nordegren, 30, allegedly called Woods while he was having dinner with friends following his golf comeback at the U.S.
masters.

‘She was screaming so loudly that everyone at the table could hear what she was saying,’ a source told the magazine.

Woods’ estranged wife was quoted as saying: ‘This is the worst betrayal ever. I can’t believe you had sex with that girl in our own neighbourhood. That’s it – I’m divorcing you!’


Final straw: Tiger Woods with Elin Nordegren in 2004. He has reportedly confessed to 120 affairs


The Enquirer claimed the seduction happened last May just yards from where his wife was caring from their new-born baby.

Woods, 34, adamantly denied having a fling with Miss Goudriet, now a 22-year-old student at the University of Alabama.

Her father is a builder who constructed 17 homes in the upscale community where Woods lives in Isleworth near Orlando, Florida.


Lovers: Former Playboy model Loredana Jolie Ferriolo and high paid escort Rachel Uchitel were both linked to Tiger woods


An insider told the Enquirer Woods filled out four pages listing all the 120 women he had affairs with.

‘Elin has cut Tiger out of her life. She doesn’t believe anything he says now. The marriage is over,’ the source told the Enquirer.

Woods’ public fall from grace began in November 2009 after he crashed his car outside his Florida mansion.

The sporting idol took a break from golf following a string of revelations about his love life and checked into rehab to allegedly to be treated for sex addiction.


source: dailymail

Wayne Rooney spotted in Real Madrid shirt! But don't worry, Manchester United, as move for ace looks a no-go despite Spanish mischief-makers

By Sportsmail Reporter

Transfer kitty: The Spanish press insist that Wayne Rooney is ready to swap the white of the Manchester United third strip for that of Real Madrid this summer


Mischievous reports in Spain claim Wayne Rooney this week recorded a TV ad wearing a Real Madrid shirt in case of a summer move to La Liga.

Never mind that Rooney says he's happy at Old Trafford, that Sir Alex Ferguson insists his star striker is not for sale and that even Cristiano Ronaldo doubts his pal will move to the Bernabeu.

Nonetheless, Catalan newspaper Sport - usually more prone to unsettling Madrid stars rather than doing their PR work - say Rooney's representatives have left the door open on a move.

The story goes that injured Rooney was in Barcelona on Monday to film a commercial for a video game. After shooting a version in a Manchester United strip, he then donned a Madrid top on the suggestion of his advisers to film a back-up version.

It is claimed Karim Benzema did the same a year ago when he was still at Lyon because calling together world stars for the advert is not something that can be easily re-arranged.

Madrid president Florentino Perez is a huge admirer of the England talisman and wants to sign one of Rooney, Valencia's David Villa or Atletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero this summer.


Pleasure and pain: Rooney has been voted PFA Players' Player of the Year after his heroics for United this season, but has suffered with injuries in recent weeks


Aguero, himself courted by United and Chelsea in the past, has opened the door to the unthinkable of quitting Atletico for their city rivals.

The Argentina striker, who has a £52million buyout clause at a club needing to cash in, explained: 'I've said many times that going to Real Madrid would be like betraying the club and the fans who have treated me very well since I arrived.


Loving life: Cristiano Ronaldo swapped Old Trafford for the Berbabeu last year, and wants his friend and former team-mate Rooney to join him in Madrid


'But, in June, if the club needs the money and we all agree, then Real remain an option. There are three teams (interested), but now I want to concentrate on the end of the season.' Atletico insiders, though, would rather sell Aguero to anyone but their rivals.

Ronaldo, who made an £80million world-record move from United to Madrid last summer, would like to team up again with Rooney, but he's not confident a deal will be done.



Atletico alternative: Real are also eyeing Argentine star Sergio Aguero (centre)


'He is happy in England,' said the Portugal star. 'I am a good friend of his and I don't know if he will come.

'For several years I wanted to play in Madrid. I'd won everything in Manchester and wanted a change, but I don't see myself in Madrid when I'm 40.

'I am convinced that Real Madrid and I share the same personality. After losing a match, I arrive at home and sometimes do not speak to anyone - not my mother, not my family. They know me and understand this reaction. I have even cried a lot after losing some matches.'


source: dailymail

Liverpool hit by striker crisis on eve of Europa League decider against Atletico Madrid

By Sportsmail Reporter

Struggles: Dirk Kuyt trained for Liverpool on Wednesday but remains a doubt


Liverpool are facing a striker crisis ahead of their Europa League showdown with Atletico Madrid.

Needing a victory to reach the final, Liverpool - who are already without Fernando Torres - are now braced to lose back-up forwards David Ngog and Dirk Kuyt for the second leg.

That leaves misfiring Ryan Babel as the man most likely to head Liverpool's attack for their most important match of the season.

Kuyt limped off against in the 4-0 win at Burnley on Sunday with a calf injury, while Ngog has been struggling with a back injury.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez, whose own future could be decided by the semi-final outcome at Anfield, revealed that he will not risk either player as they attempt to overturn the 1-0 deficit against the Spaniards.


Leading men: Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher train at Melwood


He said: 'Kuyt did not train on Tuesday and will have a light session today. We will decide tomorrow because he still has some problems.

'He is a really important player for us but we will not take any risks with him if it is not necessary.

'Ngog has the same situation with his back. We will have to push him more in training today and then see how he feels tomorrow.'

As well as Torres, Benitez will also be without long-term crocks Fabio Aurelio, Martin Skrtel and Emiliano Insua.


Problems: Rafa Benitez is desperate to reach the Europa League final


Meanwhile, Atletico striker Diego Forlan says he is confident of triumphing at Anfield after his experience of winning there with Manchester United.

The striker said: 'I hope to score at Anfield. The truth is that in all the times I've played there, I've won.

'Obviously the matches have been very complicated, because they (Liverpool) are always difficult to play against. But, whoever scores, I hope we can come away with a good result and reach the final we all dream about.

'I've always liked to score goals, especially at great and historic grounds. This is the case, for example, with the next game in Liverpool.

'It's always been a special desire of mine to play in these types of games, they are the types of games that as a child you watch on television with the hope of being in one of them one day.'


source: dailymail

'We don't even argue': Football WAG Alex Curran dismisses rumours her marriage to Steven Gerrard has come to an end

By Daily Mail Reporter

Happy family: Alex Curran, pictured here with husband Steven Gerrard and their two daughters earlier this month, has denied her marriage is in trouble


Alex Curran has hit back at rumours her marriage to Liverpool and England star Steven Gerrard is over.

The Liverpool-born WAG is said to be devastated over the gossip which has spread across the internet like wildfire over the past few weeks.

Recent pictures which showed the 27-year-old without her £75,000 wedding ring on did nothing to suppress the rumours.

But she spoke to OK! magazine to defend herself against claims the three-year marriage had come to an end, and dismiss allegations that they had split following a series of shocking incidents.

Alex, who has two children with Steven - Lilly-Ella, six, and Lexie, three - said: 'There have been loads of rumours going around Liverpool saying that me and Steven have split up, that he's moved to a hotel and ridiculous things like that.

'I'd like to set the record straight. We have never been happier.

'I wouldn't mind [the rumours] but we don't even argue.'


Pampered WAG: Alex, pictured here in Liverpool earlier this week, said Steven keeps the romance alive by treating her to meals out


Rumours the couple had parted first emerged on the internet three weeks ago, although talk of their apparent relationship troubles have been the topic of discussion on blogs and forums for some time now.


No ring: Alex was pictured last week without her £75,000 engagement diamond and wedding band


The most recent stories were circulated on Twitter and then forwarded around the country via text messages and emails.

Sources had claimed the original sender heard the gossip from 'someone who knew the John Terry story before it came out.'

It was also alleged that the reason the stories were not in the press was because Steven, 29, had taken out an injunction.

Other gossips said the England star had moved out of the family home and was living in a hotel in Southport - and his rumoured plans to move to Real Madrid were fuelled by their apparent marriage troubles.

However, Alex told OK! that Steven makes the perfect husband.

She said: 'He always plans little dinners and if I've been out sometimes with the girls and I'm a little hungover he'll get up with the children for me. He's really thoughtful like that.'

And she revealed they have the same nickname for each other, which they have used since they got together in 2002.

She revealed: 'He calls me "pet" and I call him "pet" - we've had that for years, since we met.'

Before Gerrard, Alex dated Jennifer Ellison's ex Tony Richardson, while Gerrard was dating Ellison herself.

At some point, the couples ended up with each other's partners, with Gerrard and Curran staying together and marrying in June 2007.


source: dailymail

David Beckham comeback heads for over-time as he reveals recovery is two months behind schedule

By Sportsmail Reporter

Limp wave: Beckham hobbles out in New York


David Beckham's recovery from an achilles injury is two months behind schedule, with the England midfielder revealing on Monday he won't be fit to play again until November.

That means Beckham, 34, will miss the whole of the Major League Soccer season, unless Los Angeles Galaxy reach the play-offs, while the next England game he could feature in is the Euro 2012 qualifier against Wales in March.

Beckham said: 'My mentality is to push it and get running as soon as possible, but it's an injury that has to take time to heal. It's frustrating because I've been working for the last two years to get into the England World Cup squad.'

Beckham had surgery last month after rupturing a tendon while on loan at AC Milan. He had previously said he expected to be back in action by September.

source: dailymail

Wayne Rooney in title rescue mission: Manchester United talisman fighting to be fit for Sunderland

By Ian Ladyman

Warrior spirit: Rooney is determined to return for United - but at what cost?

Wayne Rooney is aiming to return for Manchester United’s crucial Barclays Premier League clash at Sunderland on Sunday.

United need to win to ensure the title race goes down to the wire and the striker is desperate to play.

His current injury is a strain of the abductor muscle that runs up the front of the top of the leg and around the groin.

Rooney suffered the injury when making a routine pass in training last Thursday and has been told he needs to rest.

He has already made one surprise comeback this season, against Bayern Munich in the Champions League just a week after supposedly being ruled out for three weeks with an ankle problem.


Returning hero: Rooney made a surprise appearance against Bayern


That gamble backfired when Rooney suffered a recurrence of the injury and England fans will hope their talismanic striker does not come back too early again and risk his
place at the World Cup.


source: dailymail

Manchester City want Joe Hart back: lnjury crisis sees Roberto Mancini plead for keeper's return from Birmingham

By Ian Ladyman

Dejected: Given, with wife Jane yesterday, is likely to be out for months


Manchester City will launch an audacious bid to end Joe Hart’s loan spell at Birmingham and take him back to Eastlands in a move that will enrage their Barclays Premier League rivals.

City desperately need an experienced goalkeeper after losing their No 1 Shay Given to a shoulder injury that rules him out for four months as they face games against Aston
Villa and Tottenham in the battle for the fourth Champions League spot.

With Given’s understudy, Stuart Taylor, only due to start training again today after a knee operation, City expect the Premier League to give them special dispensation to bring in an emergency keeper.

And although City boss Roberto Mancini has identified Sunderland’s Hungarian international Marton Fulop as a fall-back option, it is understood the club’s football administrator, Brian Marwood, will try to persuade Birmingham to release Hart today.

Loan star Hart has enjoyed an exceptional season and is the form goalkeeper of the Premier League in the eyes of many.

Nevertheless, Spurs manager Harry Redknapp and Villa boss Martin O’Neill will surely have something to say if their rivals are allowed to sign the England international for their last three games of the campaign.

O’Neill, for example, witnessed Hart in action as his team squeezed past Birmingham in the 1-0 win at Villa Park on Sunday and he would not fancy facing the England international again when he takes his team to Eastlands on Saturday


Wanted man: Joe Hart has made a big impression during his loan stint at Birmingham


Redknapp, meanwhile, is due to take Spurs to City for what many believe will be a
Champions League decider tomorrow week.

There is, of course, absolutely no reason why Birmingham should agree to City’s request. There is no clause in Hart’s loan contract that says he must be released and manager Alex McLeish has already suggested he would turn City down.

However, it is understood that City will appeal to Birmingham’s better nature and point out that it is impossible for them to climb higher than their current position of ninth in the table.

It will also be stressed that three high-profile end-of-season games will serve to enhance Hart’s prospects of going to the World Cup with England.

Nevertheless, Birmingham will have to consider the fact they can still be caught by
Sunderland, Blackburn, Fulham and Stoke City and that the difference in prize-money between ninth and 13th, for example is a significant £2.8million


Up in arms: Redknapp (left) and O'Neill will be livid should the move go ahead


City began their search for a goalkeeper early yesterday when the Premier League gave them initial guidance that they would in all likelihood be allowed to bring someone in.

That has to be officially ratified today but is expected to be approved by the Premier League board.

Under league rules, clubs who suffer injuries to two of their first-team keepers are allowed to bring another in on loan, regardless of the usual transfer-window restrictions.

Villa and Tottenham, however, are likely to point out that Taylor is back in training today and could feasibly play this weekend, despite what would appear to be an obvious lack of match fitness. They may also stress that Manchester City have another international, Faroe Islander Gunnar Nielsen, on their books.


Nielsen came on for the closing stages after Given was injured at the Emirates on Saturday but he is considered by Mancini to be too green to see out the season. Knowing that their bid to re-sign Hart may very well fail, City have identified Sunderland goalkeeper Fulop as another possibility. Celtic’s Artur Boruc was another name mentioned yesterday but he has now been ruled out.

Given had a scan on his injured shoulder yesterday and will have another today. Iit seems certain he will need surgery, and that is likely to keep him out until the start of next season.

There was better news for Stoke’s Tthomas Sorensen, who dislocated an elbow against Chelsea on Sunday. He will not need an operation and he will therefore be fit to travel to the World Cup with Denmark.

source: dailymail

Burnley 0 Liverpool 4: Dream is over for 'little old' Burnley as Reds run riot at Turf Moor

By Chris Wheeler

One up: Gerrard celebrates his opener at Turf Moor
Two goals in seven second-half minutes from Steven Gerrard extinguished any remaining hope and kept alive Liverpool's bid for fourth place, before Maxi Rodriguez and Ryan Babel administered the last rites.


They were applauded off the pitch on Sunday almost as enthusiastically as they were greeted on to it when Manchester United came to Turf Moor on that memorable summer night back in August, but the dream is over for Burnley.

The euphoria of their first Barclays Premier League home game and a stunning victory over the champions seemed such a very long time ago as, under leaden skies in Lancashire, relegation after one season in the top flight was confirmed.

Gerrard's second goal in particular, a trademark effort swept beyond Brian Jensen from 25 yards, emphasised the gulf in class. It is a divide Burnley have failed to bridge on too many occasions this season, having left their wallet in their pocket and kept faith with much of the squad that brought them up almost a year ago.

That this defeat also made Bolton safe will stick in their throats. It was the departure of manager Owen Coyle for Wanderers in January, perhaps more than anything else, that pointed Burnley back towards the Championship.


To the Maxi: Rodriguez scores Liverpool's third
Coyle's replacement, Brian Laws, has lost 13 of his 17 games. The Burnley fans did not give him the same generous applause as the players yesterday, booing him down the tunnel, but Laws insists he will remain in charge.

'Nobody can explain how you feel,' he said afterwards. 'It's one of those feelings you get in the pit of your stomach. The fans will be feeling it because it's come to an end, all the hard work. It's been a magnificent journey and a great dream. Little old Burnley in the Premier League. It's been awesome.

'Everyone thought it was impossible to stay there but we were close to doing it.

We'll bounce back. Going back to the Championship will hurt but we'll be one of the stronger sides next season and we want to taste what it's like in the Premier League again.

'The players are as hurt as anyone else. It's the final nail in the coffin and it's horrible. But beneath that horrible feeling they should be very proud.'


Feeling flat: Burnley striker Fletcher on the deck


Although a Burnley side needing to win their last three games matched a below-par Liverpool in the first half, it began to go wrong from the moment Gerrard played a one-two with Yossi Benayoun and saw his 20-yard effort deflected in off Leon Cort.

Benayoun had come on as a replacement four minutes earlier for Dirk Kuyt, Liverpool's last fit senior striker, who suffered a calf strain which makes him a doubt for Thursday's Europa League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid.

At least manager Rafa Benitez can still count on his captain in times of need. If Gerrard's first goal was somewhat fortuitous, the second was pure class.


He barely broke stride when the ball ran invitingly into his path after Alberto Aquilani had controlled Maxi's pass and then slipped.


'That's the sort of goal Stevie can score,' said Benitez. 'When you don't have players like Torres, you need a player like Stevie to score goals.'

Burnley did not go down without a fight. Steven Fletcher and Jack Cork both went close with headers in the first half, there was a penalty appeal for handball against Glen Johnson, and Fletcher also hit the post towards the end.

But then Aquilani's pass picked out Maxi to score his first goal in English football and Lucas sent Babel clear in added time to make it four. 'Going down,' sang the Liverpool fans. 'Going bust,' came the reply from the home supporters.

Champions League football will certainly make Liverpool a more attractive proposition for potential buyers, and Benitez still believes his team can snatch fourth.

'The others have to play each other, so if that's a draw then maybe we have a chance,' said the Liverpool boss.


source: dailymail

Manchester United hero Wayne Rooney picks up PFA gong and insists: I'll be fit for World Cup!

By Matt Lawton

And the winner is: Rooney and Milner pick up their awards
‘I’m hoping to play for United in the last game of the season.’


Wayne Rooney, who was last night named the PFA’s Player of the Year, has given England coach Fabio Capello a boost by declaring he will overcome his groin injury long before the World Cup.

Capello had been sweating on the fitness of his two most important players — Rooney and captain Rio Ferdinand, who continues to struggle with a combination of back and groin problems.

But Rooney said last night: ‘The groin will be fine for the World Cup, there are no worries about that.

Both Rooney and Ferdinand missed Manchester United’s victory over Tottenham on Saturday. Rooney injured his groin as a result of over-compensating to protect the ankle he damaged in the first leg of United’s Champions League quarter-final tie with Bayern Munich.

Capello got another fillip when Ashley Cole returned to Chelsea’s starting line-up yesterday after finally recovering from a broken ankle, easing the national coach’s concerns about left back, and in particular whether Wayne Bridge can be persuaded to change his mind about missing the World Cup.

The England coach has enlisted the help of Roberto Mancini and Manchester City’s England players in trying to convince Bridge that he should travel to South Africa despite the hurt of John Terry’s affair with his ex-fiancee, Vanessa Perroncel.


I'll be fit: Rooney has assured Fabio Capello he will be fit for the World Cup


In the PFA vote Rooney’s selection, ahead of fellow nominees Cesc Fabregas, Carlos Tevez and Didier Drogba, means that Manchester United have supplied the winner of the prestigious award for a fourth successive year.

The 24-year-old, who has scored 34 goals for United and eight for England this season, said: ‘It’s a great feeling to win the award because it’s voted for by the players.

‘I remember coming here in 2005 and 2006 to win the young player of the year. I saw the players winning the main one and it’s something I’ve aimed for since.’

Aston Villa winger James Milner is the PFA’s Young Player of the Year, boosting his hopes of selection to England’s World Cup squad.


source: dailymail

Bring on Anfield! Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti admits Liverpool visit holds key to title success

By Matt Barlow

Blue heaven: Kalou (right) celebrates one of his three goals


Chelsea stormed back to the top of the Barclays Premier League with a 7-0 destruction of Stoke and turned their sights to a showdown at Liverpool.

With Wigan to play at home on the final day of the campaign on May 9, Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti will feel a victory at Anfield on Sunday holds the key to his title dream.

The Italian’s side are one point ahead of Manchester United with two games to play and he can emulate Jose Mourinho by winning the Premier League in his first season in England.

‘Now, the most important game is Liverpool,’ said Ancelotti.

‘We have a week to prepare and we’ll do our best. I hope we play like we played today. It will be difficult, Liverpool are a fantastic team, still going for fourth place.

'We are going for first and it is ours to lose.

‘To have the title in our hands is a good thing. I think United are able to win their two games against Sunderland and Stoke. Our aim is to win two games.

'If we do that, we are champions.’

After losing at Spurs, Chelsea came out determined to prove they were not faltering under pressure, and Salomon Kalou led the way with a hat-trick.

The rout means Chelsea have scored 93 League goals this season, including the 7-1 rout of Aston Villa last month, and have a goal difference eight better than United’s.

‘I would have preferred to keep two or three goals for next week,’ said Ancelotti.


Confident mood: Carlo Ancelotti


‘We didn’t need to send a message but this was a good message for us. We needed a good reaction to the defeat at Tottenham, and we did that.

‘There was a bit of pressure on us before the game but we were focused and put in a fantastic performance.

'Goal difference is not important. I don’t think it will decide the title. We’ve scored a lot of goals this season. This is our philosophy. We want to attack.

‘We’ve changed something. If Chelsea play good football and people see that, we are happy. That’s our aim.’

Stoke lost captain Abdoulaye Faye and goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen to injury in the first half. The Dane dislocated an elbow trying to stop Kalou’s second goal and could miss the World Cup.


Painful: Thomas Sorensen was left with a dislocated elbow after clash with Kalou


To make matters worse, striker Dave Kitson stormed off when he was substituted, flicking a V-sign in the direction of Stoke manager Tony Pulis and rejecting the handshake offered by substitute Tuncay.

‘It’s a bit of a disease,’ said Pulis, who cancelled his players’ planned day off today.

‘Tuncay’s also done that before. We’ll have a word.’

Pulis said: ‘We just got murdered. We were lucky to get nil. We’ve trained well this week but we had five or six players well off it.

'That’s the first time we’ve been beaten away in the league this year but if you’re carrying six players you’ll struggle against a third division team.’


source: dailymail

PREMIER LEAGUE LIVE: Follow all the action from Burnley v Liverpool, Everton v Fulham

By Tom Bellwood

Sportsmail has all the action on a busy day of Premier League football. Chelsea can retake top spot with a win at home against Stoke. Burnley will be relegated today if they don't beat a Liverpool side who are still in the hunt for a Champions League place. And Everton are still after a Europa League berth and can boost their cause with a win over Fulham. Tom Bellwood has all the news from 2.30pm.

3.23: I can confirm that Ashley Cole will start for Chelsea today. His first appearance since he broke his ankle during the clash with Everton in February. The Blues will start with two up front - Nicola Anelka and Didier Drogba. Full teams when I have them.


3.19: Ryan Babel has fired a smart drive just wide of Brian Jensen's upright at Turf Moor. And over at Goodison, Yakuba has missed the target from 18-yards after a mistake from Manchester United-bound Chris Smalling.

3.15: Everton are very much on top at Goodison. They've had a great penalty shout turned down after Pienaar had his legs chopped. Ref Lee Mason had a long hard look but turned the appeal down.

3.12: Still not much happening at Burnley. Liverpool have been doing the most of the pressing - they've won three penalties but are yet to force a save out Brian Jensen.

The Clarets have hardly seen the ball and aren't playing like a side fighting for its Premier league lives.

3.07: Nowt going on at Turf Moor. Zero.

3.05: Lively start from Everton. Tim Cahill, making his 200th appearance for the club, has gone close and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov has fired a shot which slammed on to Mark Schwarzer's post.

3pm: Bang on time - the games at Goodison and Turf Moor kick off.


Baird Luck: Steven Pienaar loses out as two Fulham defenders close down


2.50: Right, just a few minutes away from out 3pm kick-offs. We have another game later in the day as Chelsea look to return to the summit of the Premier League.

And I hear a whisper that Ashley Cole may be starting for the Blues today.

Good news for Carlo Ancelotti wo is missing his skipper in defence.


2.40: And now to relegation-haunted Turf Moor ... David Nugent has returned to Burnley's starting line-up against Liverpool.

The on-loan Portsmouth forward comes in for Chris Eagles after recovering from a hamstring problem which forced him to miss last week's defeat to Sunderland.

And after the arduous Europa League trip to Madrid in midweek, Liverpool manager
Rafael Benitez has sprung a surprise by giving teenage centre-back Daniel Ayala only his second start in place of Sotirios Kyrgiakos.

The 19-year-old made his first-team debut back in August but the last of his
three first-team appearances came as a substitute in the defeat at Fulham in
October.

Alberto Aquilani, Ryan Babel and Maxi Rodriguez replace Lucas Leiva, Yossi Benayoun and David Ngog, who failed to recover from a back injury sustained against Atletico.


2.35: Here's the team news from Goodison Park... With the second leg of the Europa League semi-finals his top priority this week, Fulham manager Roy Hodgson unsurprisingly made nine changes for today's clash at Everton.

Paul Konchesky, Brede Hangeland, Aaron Hughes, Danny Murphy, Dickson Etuhu, Damien Duff, Zoltan Gera and Simon Davies are all out. With Bobby Zamora the only injured absentee after aggravating an achilles problem in Germany.

In comes John Pantsil for his first appearance for four months after recovering
from a knee injury, on-loan trio Nicky Shorey, Stefano Okaka and Jonathan
Greening, as well as Erik Nevland, Bjorn Helge Riise, Clint Dempsey, Chris
Smalling and Kagisho Dikgacoi.

In stark contrast Everton have mead just one change from last week's 3-2 win over
Blackburn, with Yakubu replacing Louis Saha in attack

2.30pm: Things seem to be sorted at the bottom of thee table with Hull and Burnley looking set to drop down with Portsmouth.

But things are far from decided at the top. Manchester United have capitalised on the Chelsea's recent slip but Carlo Ancelotti's side can retake top spot with a win over Stoke today.

But they'll have to do without their captain John Terry whose two rash challenges against Tottenham earned him a red card.

Burnley need to win today or they will be relegated. It's as simple as that. If the Clarets are demoted, they will remember the victories over Manchester United, Everton and the draw with Arsenal as highlights. They need to rediscover that form today.

Liverpool need to win too to keep up their ever-dimishing chance fo winning the Champions League place Rafa Benitez promised earlier this season.

And David Moyes knows his side need three points to keep up the hunt for a Europa League place.

We've got the stage of the season where everything's rather final.

Right, team news and stuff as I get it and please send any relevant correspondence in this direction, please - tom.bellwood@dailymail.co.uk


source: dailymail

And they’re off! Branson in butterfly wings and Princess Beatrice in human caterpillar team as thousands hit streets in London Marathon

By Daily Mail Reporter

The caterpillar is headed up by Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson's children, Holly and Sam. And this year Virgin has taken over sponsorship of the event for the first time.


Tsegaye Kebede wins men's marathon in 2hrs, 5mins, 18secs

Liliya Shobukhova wins women's marathon in 2:22

Sir Richard Branson slipped on a pair of wings and Princess Beatrice formed a human chain running as a caterpillar as the London Marathon brought thousands to the streets today.

Up to 36,000 athletes are expected to finish the 26.2-mile course, braving rain at the start of the race to earn their marathon medals and raise millions for countless charities.

Branson ran alongside Team Caterpillar, which included his children Holly and Sam, and Beatrice, is aiming to become the first royal to complete the route in the team aiming to beat the world record for the highest number of finishers tied together.


Crawling along: The caterpillar team of Sam Branson, Dave Clark, Holly Branson, Princess Beatrice and Tuuli Shipster are among 34 in the chain


In the race proper, Liliya Shobukhova became the first Russian woman to win the London Marathon in an unofficial time of two hours, 22 minutes.

While Ethiopia's Tsegaye Kebede won the men's London Marathon in two hours, 5 minutes and 18 seconds, beating Emmanuel Mutai of Kenya who came in second place.


Thousands of runners take to the streets in the 2010 Virgin London Marathon


Shobukhova broke away in the last two kilometres, adding the London crown to the Chicago Marathon title she won with similar tactics last autumn.

British hope and last year's runner-up Mara Yamauchi fell off the pace around the halfway point through which pacemaker Aniko Kalovis took the field on schedule in 1hr 10min 56sec.

Rain greeted the runners at the start of the race and TV presenter Jenni Falconer, who is hoping to finish in three and a half hours, said she would prefer it to be hot



The main man: Tsegaye Kebede claims victory in the men's race in two hours, five minutes, 18 seconds

'I'm getting very nervous,' she said.

'The rain is coming down so it's not a good start.'

Fellow GMTV presenter Lorraine Kelly said: 'I'm really nervous about it. I'm just going to do my best. I'm determined to do it so fingers crossed. I don't know how long it will take. I'm just hoping to get around.'


Women's winners: Liliya Shobukhova (centre) with Aselefech Mergia and Inga Abitova


At the start line celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, running his 11th marathon in 11 years, said he was 'nervous and excited'.'

Standing with his wife, Tana, who is also running, he said: 'The weather is perfect for the start. Not too hot, which is brilliant.'

He said his wife had run three half marathons in three weeks, adding: 'I feel for the first time in 10 years I'm going to get my arse kicked.'


GMTV presenter Lorraine Kelly starts The London Marathon with a smile on her face


Promising start: Lorraine Kelly is all smiles... for now


Natalie Imbruglia and Michelle Heaton were also nervous about the race and Natalie said it would be an emotional finish.

As the rain stopped, Hollyoaks actor Ricky Whittle said: 'The nerves are settling in now, this is it.

'I can't run away from it, or at least there's only one way I can run. It's going to be fun and we are all raising lots of money for a great cause.'

As well as the celebrities, thousands of fun runners were set for the challenge.

Carole Furmanski, 54, an IT manager from Ifield Wood, near Gatwick, was taking on the course with the aid of her walking stick.

Ms Furmanski, who had a botched hip replacement operation in the summer of 2008, said: 'I decided to do it for Scope, they do so much for disabled people and I know a little bit about what that's like now.

'I couldn't walk properly for a few years. 'My aim is to finish hopefully today.'
A total of 74 runners are taking part in 41 different Guinness World Record attempts, including fastest cartoon character, animal, superhero, alien and runner on crutches.


Gordon and Tana Ramsey at the start line of the 2010 London Marathon at Blackheath in south London.


Gordon Ramsay battles on within the marathon crowds


Among runners attempting world records, firefighter Michael Szymanski dons his uniform, complete with oxygen tank, helmet, and heavy duty boots, weighing a total of about 40lb (18kg).

He is attempting to finish in under five hours, 33 minutes and 10 seconds to raise £5,000 for Naomi House, which provides care to sick children, and become the fastest ever runner in a fireman's uniform.

The 36-year-old, from Southampton, said: 'I've done a fair bit of running in the boots. I've lost a bit of skin on my feet and I've lost skin off my back as well, wearing this. But it's worth it at the end of the day.'


Here for the beer: Fun runners dresses as a bottle of beer and gingerbread man file past


Jonathan Zeffert, a 32-year-old sales director who is also running for Naomi House, dressed as purple Teletubby Tinky Winky in an attempt to become the fastest television character.

He said: 'It's a good example of what happens if you let your child choose what you are going to wear for the marathon.

'It was a close-fought battle between this and Spiderman and in retrospect I wish Spiderman had won.'


Damsel soon to be in distress: Four gallant knights aiming to help a young lady round


Police officer Jill Christie, 27, from Brentford, north west London, is dressed as Superwoman as she attempts to go under three hours, 13 minutes and 33 seconds for Crimestoppers.

Ms Christie, going for the record of fastest superhero, said her colleagues thought she was 'loony'

Sitting in a crop top with a bare midriff, she added: 'I think they are jealous they don't have an outfit like this.'

Married father-of-two David Kidd, 42, from West Oxford, has been training with a walking stick for his attempt at the fastest book character record.

Dressed as children's favourite Wally, from the Where's Wally? books, he is aiming for under four and a half hours to claim the record.


Getting an education: Runners pass by the University of Greenwich


He said it was his grandmother's walking stick and a top made from a Darlington FC shirt.

His seven-year-old son, Harry, suggested the character and his nine-year-old son, Joseph, suggested the top, so he said: 'They're both to blame really.'

Andrew White, 39, from central London, is aiming to become the fastest marathon runner dressed as a nurse and has already raised £80,000 for CLIC Sargent.

Asked about the outfit, he said: 'It chafes a bit.'


Figuring it out: Models Elen Rivas, Jo-Emma Larvin and the Bionic Woman, ex-EastEnder Michelle Ryan


George Bingham, 49, from West Yorkshire, is wearing a 1/12 scale model of The Angel of the North.

He is hoping his costume, which is 14ft 1in (4.3m) tall with a wingspan of 14ft 9in (4.5m), will win him the record of tallest costume.

And, more importantly, it has helped him raise more than £42,000 for the Sue Ryder Care hospices in Oxenhope, near Keighley, and Leeds


Ready for the off: Jenni Falconer and Ben Shepherd at the start of the 2010 Virgin London Marathon, at Blackheath


Fred Flintstone is not known for being fleet of foot but David Ross, running his 175th marathon, is hoping to clock under three hours, 36 minutes and seven seconds to become the fastest cartoon character.

Brandishing an inflatable club, the 42-year-old City sales account manager, who runs two to three marathons a month, said: 'I just love raising money for charity.'


Legging it: Singers Natalie Imbruglia and Michelle Heaton and children's TV presenters Dick and Dom


The record seekers are under strict instructions to finish as they start, and must keep hold of their props, such as walking sticks and stethoscopes.

Other characters taking part are Spongebob Squarepants and Buzz Lightyear.

The race also features five leprechauns and runners dressed in full ice hockey kit, martial arts suit and a school uniform.

Are you competing in The London Marathon? Send your pictures to us at: pictures@dailymail.co.uk


source: dailymail