Wolves v Blackburn Match Preview

Wolves midfielder Matt Jarvis faces a late fitness test on a thigh strain ahead of the visit of Sam Allardyce's Blackburn Rovers side.

Jarvis suffered the injury in the draw at Fulham, but Wolves boss Mick McCarthy remains optimistic that the player will be fit.

Definitely out for McCarthy's side, however, is Karl Henry, who is suspended.

McCarthy will stick to the 4-5-1 formation that has served Wanderers well in the last few weeks, with Kevin Doyle once again starting as the lone striker.

Blackburn Rovers will be missing midfielder Brett Emerton and centre back Chris Samba, who have hamstring and groin injuries respectively.

Keith Andrews could deputise for Emerton, although boss Sam Allardyce may be tempted to blood some of the younger members of the Rovers squad.

Also missing is El Hadj Diouf, who has tonsilitis. He is set to be replaced by youngster Martin Olsson.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 24th 15:00 GMT

WOLVES vs BLACKBURN ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Wolves v Blackburn Match Preview

Latest Arsenal Transfer Rumours

Well, let's take a quick look at the transfer rumours surrounding that notorious big spender, Arsene Wenger of Arsenal.

Yesterday's Sunday Express ran the unlikely story that Arsenal would be moving to sign Liverpool ‘keeper Jose Reina in the summer. Not that it wouldn't be a good fit, but that would involve spending money. Oh, and the fact that Reina signed a new five year deal this month seems to have been strangely omitted from this story.

Elsewhere, it's being reported that Barcelona want Arsenal left back Gael Clichy and are willing to offer striker Bojan as part of the deal.

Two things about this: 1) swap deals never, never happen. 2) Don't Barcelona already have a better left back in Eric Abidail, a man who, incidentally, has a 90million Euro release clause in his contract.

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Latest Arsenal Transfer Rumours

Chelsea vs Stoke Preview

John Terry is suspended for Chelsea and will be replaced by Bratislav Ivanovic in central defence.

The fit again Ashley Cole could replace Yuri Zhirkov at left back and - with both Michael Essien and Jon Mikel Obi out - Michael Ballack will return to the centre of midfield.

Deco is also likely to start for Carlo Ancelotti's side, with Joe Cole having to be content with a place on the bench.

Didier Drogba has persistent minor niggles in the last few weeks, but is expected to start alongside Nicolas Anelka.

Stoke manager Tony Pulis welcomes back a number of key players to the squad, including defender Ryan Shawcross, who has overcome an ankle injury, and winger Matthew Etherington, who has recovered from a knock to the knee.

Also back in contention for a start is striker RIcardo Fuller, who was a substitute last time out, having suffered an ankle injury in the match with Hull City.

Definitely out, however, is fellow striker Mamady SIdibe, who has a groin strain.

KICK-OFF: SUNDAY APRIL 25th 16:00 GMT

CHELSEA vs STOKE ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Chelsea vs Stoke Preview

Arsenal vs Manchester City Preview

Arsenal have Alex Song and Eduardo back in contention, while Manchester City are hopeful that Micah Richards will be fit enough to play some part.

Richards has a toe injury, but will face a late fitness test. If fit, he will be on the bench, with Nedum Onuoha preferred at right back.

Ex-Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor is expected to start upfront, in tandem with Carlos Tevez.

Two other former Arsenal players, Kolo Toure and Patrick Vieira are also expected to be in the Manchester City squad, with Vieira starting on the bench.

With Denilson out, the return of Alex Song from cartilege problems is timely. If sufficiently fit, Song will start in place of youngster Craig Eastwood.

With Thomas Vermaelen still out, veterans Silvestre and Sol Campbell will start at centre back.

Also absent for Arsene Wenger's Arsenal side are Cesc Fabregas, Andrey Arshavin , Johan Djourou (knee), William Gallas and Kieran Gibbs.

However, fit again Robin Van Persie could start in place of Nicklas Bendtner.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 24th 17:30 GMT

ARSENAL v MANCHESTER CITY ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Arsenal vs Manchester City Preview

Aston Villa vs Birmingham Preview

Defenders Richard Dunne and Stephen Warnock are back in contention for Aston Villa, while Birmingham City have strikers James McFadden and Cameron Jerome back to full fitness.

Jerome had been playing with a back problem, but seems to have overcome this, while McFadden has shaken off the groin strain he picked up against Hull last time out.

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish is unlikely to make further changes to his side, which means no start for striker Christian Benitez, who will have to be content with a place on the bench.

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill will bring Richard Dunne and Stephen Warnock back into the starting line-up.

Also fit again after a groin problem is skipper Stillyan Petrov, who returns to the centre of midfield.

Norway international John Carew will again be preferred to England's Emile Heskey as partner to the in-form Gabriel Agbonlahor.

KICK-OFF : SUNDAY APRIL 25th 12:00 GMT

ASTON VILLA vs BIRMINGHAM ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Aston Villa vs Birmingham Preview

Man Utd vs Spurs Preview

Rio Ferdinand should return for Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United, while Spurs welcome Aaron Lennon back into the squad.

Lennon has been out for a number of months with a groin problem and is expected to be named among the substitutes for this match with Utd.

Also back in contention is Jermaine Jenas, who completed 45 minutes of a reserve match against West Ham Utd in midweek.

Definitely out for Spurs are Niko Kranjcar, Jonathan Woodgate and Carlo Cudicini, none of whom will play again this season.

Ledley King could be preferred to Sebastien Bassong in defence, with Roman Pavlyuchenko and Jermain Defoe likely to start upfront.

Man United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will bring Rio Ferdinand back into the starting line up after the defender overcame a groin injury. Also back is Wes Brown, who has recovered from a broken metatarsal.

Sidelined, however, are Michael Owen, Anderson and Danny Welbeck, all of whom are out for the remainder of the season.

Ferguson is likely to stick with one striker in the form of Wayne Rooney, so Dimitar Berbatov may be denied the opportunity to face his old.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 24th 12:45 GMT

MAN UTD vs SPURS ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Man Utd vs Spurs Preview

Hull vs Sunderland Preview

Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink will be missing for Hull City with a head injury, while Sunderland are without centre half John Mensah.

Mensah suffered a hamstring injury in Sunderland's last match and is likely to be replaced by Anton Ferdinand.

Lorik Cana comes back into contention after a groin strain, but fellow midfielder Lee Cattermole is definitely out with a calf injury.? Jordan Henderson is likely to start in place of Cattermole.

Ex-Hull City players Michael Turner and Fraizer Campbell are both expected to start for Steve Bruce's side against their former club.

Hull City coach Iain Dowie will replace the injured Vennegoor of Hesselink with Jozy Altidore, although Brazilian Geovanni is pushing for a starting place as well.

Craig Fagan is set to keep his place upfront with few other changes from the side that lost 2-0 last time out.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 24th 15:00 GMT

HULL vs SUNDERLAND ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Hull vs Sunderland Preview

Bolton vs Portsmouth Team Preview

On loan Manchester City midfielder Vladimir Weiss will start for Owen Coyle's Bolton Wanderers, while Portsmouth have no new injury concerns.

Pompey manager Avram Grant has been changing his squads regularly of late in order to keep players fresh for the FA Cup Final.

With Aruna Dindane ineligible to play in the league, Frederic Piquionne is likely to start upfront, supported by Tommy Smith, who has recovered from a broken nose.

Out, however, are Danny Webber, who has a knee injury, and Herman Hreidarsson, who has a calf injury.

Hassan Yebda is fit again and is set to start in midfield alongside Michael Brown and Kevin Prince Boateng.

Bolton manager Owen Coyle has a number of players returning from injury, including Chris Basham, Ricardo Gardner and defender Andy O'Brien.

None of the trio are expected to start with Coyle keeping faith with most of the starting XI that beat Stoke City 2-1 last time out.

Both Ivan Klasnic and fellow striker Johan Elmander are likely to start on the bench as Bolton play a 4-5-1 formation with Matt Taylor providing most of the attacking support to captain Kevin Davies.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 24th 15:00 GMT

BOLTON vs PORTSMOUTH ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Bolton vs Portsmouth Team Preview

Sunderland v Burnley Preview

Sunderland will be without influential midfielder Lee Cattermole, while Burnley manager Brian Laws could name an unchanged side at the Stadium of Light.

After defeating Hull City 4-1 last time out, Laws is set to keep faith with his starting eleven. This means Steven Caldwell, Andrey Bikey and Robbie Blake will all have to be content with places on the bench.

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce welcomes captain Lorik Cana back into the squad after three matches out. Also back in contention is defender John Mensah, who has trained this week.

Once again, Kenwyne Jones will be on the bench, with Fraizer Campbell and Darren Bent the preferred strike partnership for Bruce's side.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 17th 15:00 GMT

SUNDERLAND vs BURNLEY ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Sunderland v Burnley Preview

Fulham vs Wolves Match Preview

Defender John Pantsil is back from a knee injury and could start for Roy Hodgson's Fulham.

However, forward Clint Dempsey and winger Simon Davies picked up knocks in Fulham's last Premier League match and both face late fitness tests. Jonathan Greening and Erik Nevland are the most likely replacements.

Better news is that, despite a niggling achilles problem, top scorer Bobby Zamora is fit enough to start.

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy will be without midfielder and captain Karl Henry who is suspended. Henry will be replaced by Dave Edwards.

Henry aside, McCarthy has no other absentees but will stick to the 4-5-1 formation that has proven so successful for Wolves in recent weeks, with Kevin Doyle playing the lone frontman role.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 17th 15:00 GMT

FULHAM v WOLVES ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Fulham vs Wolves Match Preview

Torres Out For Rest Of Season

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery.

A spokesperson for Liverpool FC confirmed that Torres would be missing for at least six weeks, commenting:

“Fernando saw a specialist in Spain earlier today and it was decided that he would need surgery on a torn cartilage in his right knee.”

“We cannot comment ahead of the operation, but as a guide, the usual rehabilitation period for this type of procedure is around six weeks.”

The injury puts Torres' participation in the 2010 World Cup in doubt.

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Torres Out For Rest Of Season

Portsmouth v Aston Villa Match Preview

Portsmouth have a number of absentees for the visit of Aston Villa to Fratton Park.

Aruna Dindane is unavailable for selection due to contractual problems with parent club, Lens. Also out are Hassan Yebda (knee), Kevin Prince Boateng (ankle), Nadir Belhadj (thigh) and Papa Bouba Diop, who has a knee injury.

Also sidelined is on loan Spurs midfielder Jamie O'Hara, who has a back problem.

Tommy Smith could start, despite a broken nose, but Portsmouth boss Avram Grant may use this opportunity to blood a few more of Portsmouth's youngsters, as he did in midweek against Wigan Athletic.

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill will give left back Stephen Warnock a late fitness test. Luke Young will deputise if Warnock doesn't shake off the leg injury sustained in midweek.

Nigel Reo-Coker has overcome an ankle injury that has kept him out for three months, but is set for a place on the substitute's bench as O'Neill is likely to name the same eleven that drew 2-2 with Everton in midweek.

KICK-OFF: SUNDAY APRIL 18th 16:00 GMT

PORTSMOUTH vs ASTON VILLA ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Portsmouth v Aston Villa Match Preview

Liverpool vs West Ham Preview

Liverpool will be without striker Fernando Torres, while Gianfranco Zola's West Ham Scott Parker is suspended.

Parker misses this match as he is in the process of completing a two match ban. His place will be taken by Radoslav Kovac.

Upfront, Carlton Cole is likely to be partnered by Brazilian striker Ilan after some impressive recent performances. However, fellow striker Mido is back in contention after illness.

Still missing for West Ham United are Kieron Dyer, Herita Ilunga, Jack Collison and James Tomkins, who has an ankle injury.

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is likely to replace Fernando Torres, who is out for the rest of the season, with David Ngog.

In the continued absence of Fabio Aurelio and Emiliano Insua, Daniel Agger will continue to deputise at left back.

In midfield, Alberto Aquilani is expected to start, although Maxi Rodriquez is also pushing for a start for Rafa Benitez' side.

KICK-OFF: MONDAY APRIL 19th 20:00 GMT

LIVERPOOL vs WEST HAM ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Liverpool vs West Ham Preview

Tottenham vs Chelsea Preview

Tottenham's Niko Kranjcar will miss the remainder of the season with an ankle injury, but Chelsea left back Ashley Cole is back in Carlo Ancelotti's squad.

Cole, who has been missing through injury since February, will be on the substitutes bench with Yuri Zhirkov the most likely starter at left back for Chelsea.

Still out for the visitors are Ricardo Carvalho, Michael Essien and Jose Bosingwa and none are expected to return before the end of the season.

Ancelotti looks set to recall Deco, Joe Cole and Florent Malouda to the starting line up.

In addition to Krancjar Spurs manager Harry Redknapp is also missing fellow Croatia international Vedrun Corluka, who has an ankle problem.

Benoit Assou-Ekotto or youngster Kyle Walker could deputise at right back.

Peter Crouch could be recalled to the starting line up after being rested for the midweek match against Arsenal.

Winger Aaron Lennon is still not fit and misses out once again.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 17th 17:30 GMT

TOTTENHAM vs CHELSEA ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Tottenham vs Chelsea Preview

Blackburn Vs Everton Preview

Chris Samba is rated doubtful for Blackburn Rovers, while Everton's Johnny Heitinga is facing a late fitness test ahead of this match.

Heitinga suffered a foot injury in the midweek draw with Aston Villa and manager David Moyes will give the Dutchman until the last possible moment to prove his fitness.

Definitely out for Everton, however, are long term injury victims Dan Gosling and Marouane Fellaini, with Mikel Arteta also absent with a groin strain.

Striker Louis Saha may return to the starting line-up, after being a substitute during the 2-2 midweek drew with Aston Villa.

Sam Allardyce looks likely to recall Ryan Nelsen to the starting line-up in place of the injured Chris Samba. Nelsen will be partnered by 18 year old centre half Phil Jones.

Vince Grella could drop to the bench, with Martin Olsson coming in as his replacement for Blackburn Rovers.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 17th 15:00 GMT

BLACKBURN vs EVERTON ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Blackburn Vs Everton Preview

Birmingham v Hull City Match Preview

Goalkeeper Joe Hart returns for Birmingham City, while Iain Dowie's Hull City have a number of injuries to contend with.

Winger Stephen Hunt is the latest addition to those players that will be out for the remainder of the season. The Ireland international has a foot injury and has recently undergone surgery.

Also out for Hull are Anthony Gardner, Ian Ashbee and Kamil Zayatte.

Striker Amr Zaki has returned from Egypt but is unlikely to feature as he has a knee injury. Craig Fagan will once again lead the line for Hull alongside Jozy Altidore.

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish will be buoyed by the news that striker Cameron Jerome will be fit enough to play, despite a niggling back problem.

Despite a 5-1 defeat at the hands of Manchester City, McLeish is likely to make only one change from that starting XI with Joe Hart returning to goal in place of Maik Taylor.

This means no place in the starting line-up for Christian Benitez, who will be on the bench, with James McFadden starting in his stead.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 17th 15:00 GMT

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Birmingham v Hull City Match Preview

Tottenham vs Arsenal Preview

Ledley King could return for Harry Redknapp's Tottenham Hotspur, while Robin Van Persie is back for Arsenal.

Spurs manager Harry Redknapp does have a number of injury concerns ahead of this derby, with Niko Kranjcar out with an ankle injury, Wilson Palacios suspended and Aaron Lennon still not fit.

Palacios could be replaced in the centre of midfield by Tom Huddlestone, with Luka Modric also playing in central midfield.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger welcomes Robin Van Persie back from a five month injury lay-off. The Dutch striker is likely to be on the bench, with Nicklas Bendtner starting upfront.

Sol Campbell will start against his old club in the absense of Alex Song, who has a knee injury.

Cesc Fabregas, Andrey Arshavin and William Gallas are still sidelined, so Samir Nasri, Abou Diaby and Denilson are all likely to start.

KICK-OFF : WEDNESDAY APRIL 14th 20:00 GMT

TOTTENHAM vs ARSENAL MATCH ODDS

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Tottenham vs Arsenal Preview

Liverpool Up For Sale

Liverpool's American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have put the club up for sale after admitting it would require new owners to take the club to the “next level”.

The duo, whose own working relationship was difficult, have appointed businessman Martin Broughton, the deputy president of the Confederation of British Industry, as Liverpool chairman with a brief to oversee the sale of the club and have asked Barclays Capital to advise on the process.

A joint statement from Hicks and Gillett read:

“Having grown this club this far we have now decided together to look to sell the club to owners committed to take the club through its next level of growth and development.”

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Liverpool Up For Sale

Tevez Unhappy With City Training

Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez has questioned the training techniques used by boss Roberto Mancini.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Tevez believes that Mancini's twice per day training sessions are too much towards the end of the season.

Tevez is quoted as saying:

“The players are not happy with this. We are at the end of a long season, we have big matches, we are tired but there are still double training sessions, morning and afternoon.”

“Then, the next day, we train for two hours. I do not understand. But, please, he is the coach and I am the player. He is in charge. I am OK with him.”

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Tevez Unhappy With City Training

Stoke City vs Bolton Match Preview

Tony Pulis' Stoke City side have a number of injury worries ahead of the visit by Owen Coyle's Bolton Wanderers.

Matthew Etherington and Ricardo Fuller both face late fitness tests, while Ryan Shawcross and striker Mamady Sidibe are definitely sidelined.

Coming back into contention is James Beattie, who has finally overcome the knee injury that has kept him out for two months.

Turkey striker Tuncay Sanli is set to start.

Bolton boss Owen Coyle welcomes Ricardo Gardner and Mark Davies back into contention for starting places against Stoke. Davies was a substitute for the Chelsea match, while Gardner hasn't played for a month due to a leg injury.

Out for the rest of the season are Sean Davis, Gavin McCann, Chris Basham and Joey O'Brien.

On loan striker Ivan Klasnic looks set to partner Kevin Davies in attack, with Johan Elmander dropping to the bench.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 17th 15:00 GMT

STOKE vs BOLTON ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Stoke City vs Bolton Match Preview

Seymour Pierce May Seize Birmingham City

Investment bank Seymour Pierce are threatening to seize control of Birmingham City FC unless ?2.2million in fees that are owed by Carson Yeung's company are paid by May 27th.

The fees relate to advisory work that Seymour Pierce undertook in the early stages of Yeung's takeover of Birmingham City.

Spokesman Neil Bennett is quoted as saying:

“Seymour Pierce advised Carson Yeung and his company, which was then called Grandtop and is now called Birmingham International Holdings, a Hong Kong company, and they advised them on the takeover of Birmingham City and they were due to pay Seymour Pierce a success fee for ?2.2million.

“They didn't pay it. Seymour Pierce has gone to court , and won the High Court case. The Hong Kong company was given 14 days to pay the money.

“That expired on Monday. They haven't paid so in effect they are in contempt of court and Seymour Pierce has taken the necessary steps to effectively take control of Birmingham City to recover the debt.”

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Seymour Pierce May Seize Birmingham City

Wigan v Portsmouth Preview

Emmerson Boyce returns for Roberto Martinez' Wigan Athletic, while Portsmouth boss Avram Grant has a number of niggling injuries to contend with.

Doubtful for Portsmouth are Kevin Prince Boateng and Hassan Yebda, who both have ankle injuries, Nadir Belhadj, who has a knee problem and Tommy Smith, who has a broken nose.

Back, however, is defender Anthony Vanden Borre, who was suspended. Vanden Borre will start at right back with Steve Finnan switching over to the left.

Frederic Piquionne is set to start upfront on his own as fellow striker Aruna Dindane may not play as by doing so he will trigger a ?4million transfer fee from parent club Lens. Portsmouth, who are in administration, cannot afford to pay this fee.

Wigan defender Emmerson Boyce has finally overcome a back injury and returns to Roberto Martinez' squad.

Out, however, is the suspended Gary Caldwell while Hendry Thomas is rated doubtful with a quad injury.

Striker Jason Scotland could start upfront in tandem with Hugo Rodallega, after the forward scored in Wigan's 2-1 defeat at the hands of Fulham.

KICK-OFF: WEDNESDAY APRIL 14th 19:45 GMT

WIGAN vs PORTSMOUTH ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Wigan v Portsmouth Preview

Aston Villa vs Everton Match Preview

Despite Richard Dunne's sore achilles, Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neil may name an unchanged side from the one that was comprehensively beaten by Chelsea last time out.

This would mean another start for Norwegian John Carew in place of England striker Emile Heskey, who will be on the bench.

Everton will be missing influential midfielder, Mikel Arteta, who has a groin strain and his place is likely to be taken by Leon Osman, with Louis Saha starting upfront on his own.

Fellow striker Yakubu is set for a place on the bench, while Victor Anichebe is still missing with a longstanding hip problem.

KICK-OFF: WEDNESDAY APRIL 14th 19:45 GMT

ASTON VILLA vs EVERTON ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Aston Villa vs Everton Match Preview

Adebayor Quits International Football

Togo and Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor has announced his retirement from international football.

The decision has come in the aftermath of the attack on the Togo team bus at the 2010 African Cup of Nations.

Adebayor is quoted on the official Manchester City website, saying:

“Following the tragic events during January's African Cup of Nations, in which two of my fellow countrymen were killed by terrorists in Angola, I have made the very difficult decision to retire from international football.

“I have weighed up my feelings in the weeks and months since the attack and I am still haunted by the events which I witnessed on that horrible afternoon on the Togo team bus.

“We were just footballers going to play a football match and represent our country, yet we were attacked by people who wanted to kill us all.

“It is a moment I will never forget and one I never want to experience again.”

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Adebayor Quits International Football

Chelsea vs Bolton Match Preview

Chelsea duo Joe Cole and Deco are being rested for tonight's visit of Bolton Wanderers to Stamford Bridge.

Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti has stated that Michael Ballack and Salomon Kalou will start in their place.

Back in contention is defender Branislav Ivanovic who will return to the right back position after overcoming a knee injury.

Still out, however, are Jose Bosingwa, Ashley Cole and Michael Essien.

Nicolas Anelka could start in the place of Didier Drogba for this match.

Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle welcomes midfielders Mark Davies and Ricardo Gardner back from injury, although both are expected to start on the bench, with Jack Wilshere being preferred to Davies in central midfield.

Swedish striker Johan Elmander may drop to the bench in favour of Croatian forward Ivan Klasnic. Kevin Davies will continue as captain.

KICK-OFF : TUESDAY APRIL 13th 19:45 GMT

CHELSEA vs BOLTON MATCH BETTING

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Chelsea vs Bolton Match Preview

Portsmouth To Appeal UEFA License

Portsmouth FC are to appeal to the Football Association in the hope of gaining a license to play in the Europa League next season.

Due to the club being in administration, they have not been allowed to apply for the relevant license from UEFA.

However, under normal circumstances, Portsmouth would have already qualified for Europe, as their fellow FA Cup finalists, Chelsea, are certain to qualify for the Champions League via their league position.

Pompey's administrator Andrew Andronikou has confirmed that the club will appeal to the FA in a bid to be awarded the appropriate license.

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Portsmouth To Appeal UEFA License

Blackburn vs Man Utd Preview

Wayne Rooney is missing for Manchester United's trip to Blackburn Rovers.

Rooney is out with an ankle injury that flaired up again during United's Champions League match with Bayern Munich. Dimitar Berbatov is set to take the England striker's place upfront.

Coming back into contention for Sir Alex Ferguson's side will be veteran trio Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes - all of whom are set to start against Rovers.

However, midfielder Owen Hargreaves, who has missed 18 months through injury, could be on the bench for the first time this season.

Fellow midfielder Anderson is out for the remainder of the campaign with a knee problem.

Coming back into contention for Sam Allardyce's Blackburn Rovers are midfielder duo Keith Andrews and Vince Grella and defender Ryan Nelsen.

Nelsen is likely to start as captain, in place of youngster Phil Jones but Grella and Andrews are set for places among the substitutes.

Allardyce is likely to play just one striker, Nikola Kalinic with support coming from El Hadj Diouf in a more withdrawn role.

KICK-OFF: SUNDAY APRIL 11th 13:30 GMT

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Blackburn vs Man Utd Preview

Hunt Set For Foot Operation

Hull City winger Stephen Hunt is to undergo an exploratory foot operation to ascertain the extent of the injury that has kept him out of the side for the last month.

Hull boss Iain Dowie commented:

“He's got a sharp pain in his foot again and we need to have a look at it in an operation. If he needs a procedure then it's going to be a lot longer but if everything is fine and we can move on, it might not be that long.”

“We should get a bit of clarity on Tuesday morning.”

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Hunt Set For Foot Operation

Ashley Cole Out For Three Months

Ashley Cole suffered a fractured ankle in Chelsea's 2-1 defeat to Everton and will be out for as much as three months.

This will rule him out for the remainder of the season and puts his place in the England world cup squad in doubt.

A Chelsea spokesman is quoted as saying:

“Ashley suffered a fracture to his left ankle in last night's game against Everton and is expected to be out of action for approximately three months.”

At club level, Russia international Yuri Zhirkov can cover, but England's second choice left back Wayne Bridge is at the centre of the storm concerning former teammate John Terry's affair with his ex-girlfriend, Vanessa Perroncel.

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Ashley Cole Out For Three Months

West Ham vs Sunderland Preview

Valon Behrami has a calf strain and will be missing for Gianfranco Zola's West Ham United, while Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has a number of injuries to contend with.

Aside from Behrami, defender James Tomkins is out with an ankle problem, while Kieron Dyer, Jack Collison, Herita Ilunga and Guillermo Franco are all missing.

Brazilian striker Ilan looks set to partner Carlton Cole in attack after impressing last time out.

With Scott Parker suspended, West Ham boss Zola will most likely bring Radoslav Kovac into the starting line up in midfield.

Sunderland will be missing the services of Lorik Cana, who has a groin injury; defender Michael Turner, who has hamstring and tendonitis problems, while Andy Reid could be out for the remainder of the season.

Consequently, David Meyler will keep his place in the centre of midfield and ex-Sheffield United player Matt Kilgallon will come in to replace Turner.

Upfront, Darren Bent could once again be partnered by Fraizer Campbell, with Kenwyne Jones having to be content with a place on the bench.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 10th 15:00 GMT

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West Ham vs Sunderland Preview

Martinez Charged With Improper Conduct

The FA have charged Wigan boss Roberto Martinez with improper conduct after comments about referee Stuart Attwell.

Martinez accused the referee of “lying” following the sending off of Wigan's Gary Caldwell for a challenge on Carlos Tevez.

Martinez defended Caldwell's challenge, saying :

“Gary said he went in really strong and got the ball. Carlos Tevez saw it and jumped off the ground, he is the one who left both feet.”

“We are all human beings and we all make mistakes but to give a decision after something you don't see, that is lying. You are making it up. That is hard to take.”

Martinez has until April 22nd to respond to the charge.

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Martinez Charged With Improper Conduct

Hull vs Burnley Preview

Midfielder George Boateng is rated doubtful for the visit of a Burnley side could welcome back captain Steve Caldwell.

Caldwell has been missing for over 3 months with groin and abdominal injuries, but has been training this week.

However, definitely out for Brian Laws' Burnley side are Stephen Jordan and Chris McCann, both of whom are suffering from knee injuries.

Midfielder Kevin MacDonald is included in the squad, despite his fine for leaving the ground without permission during Burnley's 6-1 demolition at the hands of Manchester City.

Home side, Hull City will wait until the final moment before making a decision on George Boateng after the player suffered concussion last time out.

Also rated extremely doubtful is winger Stephen Hunt, who has a foot injury. He could be replaced by Nick Barmby.

Upfront, Craig Fagan could be partnered by American Jozy Altidore, with Caleb Folan dropping to the bench.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY APRIL 10th 15:00 GMT

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Hull vs Burnley Preview

Vidic To Leave And Other Rumours

Manchester United centre back Nemanja Vidic has spoken out about rumours he wants to leave the club in the summer, saying “I have never said anything about wanting to leave. The speculation has all been generated by other people.”

Elsewhere and to be filed in the ‘it's possible' category, Tottenham are reported to be seeking new back up for ‘keeper Heurelho Gomes with The Sun speculating about a move for Atletico's Sergio Asenjo and the Daily Mirror suggesting Kaspar Schmeichel, currently at Notts County.

Meanwhile, apparently Manchester City don't have enough strikers. Well, according to the The Sun, that is. The Sun are suggesting that City will fight it out with United for Roma's Mirko Vucinic. Only one winner in that battle, methinks.

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Vidic To Leave And Other Rumours

Portsmouth vs Sunderland Match Preview

Portsmouth have a number of injury concerns ahead of the visit of Steve Bruce's underperforming Sunderland side.

Pompey midfielder Kevin Prince-Boateng suffered an ankle injury at the weekend and is rated very doubtful, as is right back Anthony Vanden Borre, who picked up an injury during the same match.

Angelos Basinas could come in to replace Prince-Boateng, while Steven Finnan could move to right back as cover for Vanden Borre.

John Utaka is back after hamstring troubles and could start upfront for Portsmouth.

Sunderland are without youngster Jordan Henderson, who was injured during Sunderland's 1-1 draw with Wigan. His place is likely to be taken by Bolo Zenden.

Also still sidelined are the trio of Kieran Richardson, John Mensah and Anton Ferdinand.

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is set to persist with the attacking duo of Kenwyne Jones and Darren Bent, although loan signing Benjani is pushing for a first start at his new club.

KICK-OFF: TUESDAY FEBRUARY 9th 19:45 GMT

PORTSMOUTH vs SUNDERLAND ODDS AND MATCH BETTING

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Portsmouth vs Sunderland Match Preview

Burnley Player Fined For Going To Pub

Burnley manager Brian Laws has fined midfielder Kevin MacDonald after the player went to the pub having been substituted at half time during Burnley's 6-1 defeat by Manchester City.

The Scotland under 21 international apologised for his behaviour, saying:

“I now realise it was naive, disrespectful and totally wrong of me to leave the ground at half-time on Saturday. It was a gross misjudgement and instead I should have remained at Turf Moor to support my club and team-mates.”

“I acknowledge that I also showed a serious lack of respect to all the fans who were at the ground and who pay good money to watch their team play. I would like to apologise to the players, management and supporters and I have accepted my punishment.”

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Burnley Player Fined For Going To Pub

Crazy Transfer Rumours This Week

The transfer window has only shut for a week, but still there are endless and increasingly unlikely transfer rumours doing the rounds.

How about this from The People: Juventus apparently want to sign Spurs left back Gareth Bale. And they are prepared to pay up to ?13million for the player. Yeah, that's what I thought, too!

The News of the World think they will also bid ?8m for Martin Skrtel, currently at Liverpool, but that has more the ring of truth about it.

Elsewhere, it looks like Roberto Mancini will let Stephen Ireland leave Manchester City this summer with the midfielder moving to Manchester United. At least, if you believe the Mail on Sunday, that is.

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Crazy Transfer Rumours This Week

Latest Premier League Transfer Rumours

It's been a while, so let's catch up on some of the crazy and not so crazy Premiership transfer rumours.

Firstly, apparently Juventus want to take Tottenham Hotspur Gareth Bale for around ?12m. There's no quotes from Juve about this and frankly, I'd be surprised if he's even in their top ten list of targets.

Still on the subject of Spurs, a more likely rumour doing the rounds is that Robbie Keane will be on his way to Aston Villa in the summer. Possibly for ?11m. We shall see.

Elsewhere, The Sun and The Metro are going with suggestions that Arsenal may want Wigan's Colombian striker Hugo Rodallega. Figures around the ?10m mark have been mentioned.

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Latest Premier League Transfer Rumours

Sunderland vs Wigan Preview

Steve Bruce's Sunderland meets his former side Wigan Athletic and could hand debuts to two of his new acquisitions.

On loan right back Alan Hutton could start for Sunderland in the absence of Phil Bardsley and John Mensah.

Meanwhile, Bruce may opt to shake things up in his forward line, with the mis-firing Kenwyne Jones being replaced by on-loan Manchester City striker Benjani.

Kieran Richardson and Anton Ferdinand are both out injured, so Andy Reid will start on the left of midfield.

Lee Cattermole came through his last match with no problems after months out injured and will start in central midfield for Sunderland.

Wigan Athletic could hand debuts to Victor Moses and Marcelo Moreno, with Moses replacing Jason Scotland as Hugo Rodellega's strike partner.

Charles N'Zogbia looks set for a recall to the starting XI, having missed out in the midweek FA Cup tie.

KICK-OFF: SATURDAY FEBRUARY 6th 15: 00 GMT

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Sunderland vs Wigan Preview

Song Missing For Arsenal

Arsenal midfielder and makeshift centre half, Alex Song, will miss Arsenal's Champions League match due to a knee injury.

The player will miss Arsenal's game with Barcelona after manager Arsene Wenger revealed:

“It was a bad surprise this morning. He had a scan yesterday afternoon on his knee and it is inflamed cartilage. We will have to wait and see how serious it is but he is completely out of the squad for tomorrow's game.”

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Song Missing For Arsenal

Due Diligence For Portsmouth Takeover

There could be light at the end of the tunnel for Portsmouth FC as representatives of a potential investor have begun the process of due diligence.

The investor's representative, Rob Lloyd, interviewed on Sky Sports, commented:

“We've now decided to go down the NDA - non-disclosure agreement - route, so one has to be very careful what we can say going forward. We're under a strict basis there that we can't disclose anything that we see today, and that will remain the case.”

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Due Diligence For Portsmouth Takeover