QPR promoted to the Premier League 2-0 win brings them up as champions

While we have yet to find out who will be relegated out of the Premier League, today we found out one club who will be playing there after promotion from the Championship.
Neil Warnocks Queens Park Rangers beat Watford 2-0 today at Vicrage Road which not only confirmed them as promoted but also confirmed they would come up as champions.
Strikes from the Championships player of the year Adel Taarabt and ex-Watford striker Tommy Smith ensured promotion although only one point was needed.
It was time to celebreate for the QPR faithful who have stuck by their club since their relegation back in 1996. They have faced administration, several managers and takeover bids and even now they are under threat of a possible 15 point deduction but for now it is time for the player, supporters and everyone connected with the club to celebrate. After 15 years they are back with the big guns and with the financial clout behind them they would be expected to survive their first season back in the Premier League but who will follow them as the other side to go up automatically. Well we could find out on Bank Holiday Monday, should Cardiff City fail to be Middlesbrough and Norwich beat Portsmouth then it'll be the Canaries hosting Premier League football next season.
For now WorldwideFootball would like to congratulate his players on their promotion, they have played attractive football and led the table for a majority of the season so they certainly deserve it.

Fulham ease past Black CatsSunderland 0 Fulham 3 (Kakuta 33, Davies 61,73)

Simon Davies' brace after Gael Kakuta had opened the scoring helped Fulham ease to a 3-0 victory at shot-shy Sunderland.

The Black Cats were dire throughout, although Steve Bruce was forced to field a side with no senior strikers following the January sale of Darren Bent and injuries to Fraizer Campbell, Asamoah Gyan and Danny Welbeck.

Both sides had all but confirmed their Premier League status for another season in the last seven days so the game had an end-of-campaign feel to it.

A goalless draw seemed the most likely outcome after a grim opening half-hour as both teams went through the motions on a warm afternoon.

However, the visitors took the lead with the first clear-cut opening of the game in the 34th minute when Kakuta poked the ball home from close range after good work by the outstanding Bobby Zamora.

The goal seemed to knock any self-confidence the Black Cats had and Fulham dominated the rest of the encounter. It came as little surprise when the Cottagers doubled their lead just past the hour mark when Steve Sidwell set up Davies who easily beat Simon Mignolet.

With the home fans streaming out of the Stadium of Light, Fulham added a third with 17 minutes remaining when weak defending allowed Davies to bundle home Zamora's cross.

The rest of the match was played out in front of a rapidly emptying ground as Hughes' side returned to the capital with all three points for only the second time this season.

Sunderland meanwhile are still not safe from relegation, although last weekend's 4-2 victory against Wigan Athletic has at least given them some breathing space as they prepare for the last three games of the campaign.

LINE UPS:

Sunderland: 22-Mignolet, 02-Bardsley, 04-Turner, 06-Cattermole, 08-Malbranque, 10-Henderson, 11-Muntari, 15-Onuoha, 25-Colback, 27-Elmohamady, 28-Sessegnon SUBS USED: 07-Zenden, 29-Ferdinand, 38-Lynch

Fulham: 01-Schwarzer, 03-Salcido, 06-Baird, 07-Sidwell, 13-Murphy, 14-Senderos, 18-Hughes, 22-Gudjohnsen, 24-Kakuta, 25-Zamora, 29-Davies SUBS USED: 08-Johnson, 20-Etuhu, 27-Greening

Thomas Rensen update 31 matches in 31 days - Today Match 27 Fortuna Koln v Germania Windeck Cologne

Thomas Rensen embarked on a footballing journey to remember. 31 football matches in 31 days. We at WorldwideFootball followed him on his travels around Europe but you can read his own words by visiting his site at http://uk.31matches.eu/

London, Stamford Bridge, 30th April 2011. That will be a date etched on Thomas Rensens mind forever as that was the day he completed his mammoth 31 day trip around Europe to witness 31 matches from virtually every European league.
Today he was at Stamford Bridge to see Chelsea's Premier League aspirations just about stay alive. A last minute Soloman Kalou strike earned Chelsea the 3 points as they beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1
The 31 day journey saw Thomas travel to countries such as Slovakia, Luxembourg, Switzerland and his homeland Holland and the amount of miles covered exceeds 15000 but as you can see from the scores below, he didn't see many dull 0-0 matches, in fact there was only one!!
As we speak he is now on his way home and catch up with friends and family. Will he have a break from football for a while, I doubt it, I reckon he will probably put his feet up, relax and catch the live game. Here’s a list of all the matches Thomas saw on his journey.

31 March: England U17 v Spain U17 (2-1)

1 April: Bangor City v Prestatyn Town (1-2)

2 April: West Ham United v Manchester United (2-4)

3 April: Hertha BSC v Paderborn (2-0)

4 April: Djurgardens v AIK (0-0)

5 April: BK Skjold v BGA (3-1)

6 April: Dynamo Dresden v Rot Weiss Erfurst (1-3)

7 April: Vyle v Tharoul v Spa (3-3)

8 April: Rheindorf Altach-Balzers (1-1)

9 April: Dinamo Zagreb v Lokomotiva (1-0)

10 April: Proleter Novi Sad v Mladost Lukani (1-1)

11 April: Sparta Praag v Slavia Praag (2-0)

12 April: Eschen/Mauren v Balzers (2-1)

13 April: Schalke 04 v Inter Milan (2-1)

14 April: PSV v Benfica (2-2)

15 April: Metz v Clermont  (3-3)

16 April: AC Milan v Sampdoria (3-0)

17 April: Basel v Grasshoppers (2-2)

18 April: Karlsruhe v Augsbur (0-1)

19 April: First Vienna v Kapfenberger SV (0-2)

20 April: KRC Genk v Club Brugge Genk (3-1)

21 April: SC Freiburg v Hannover Freiburg (1-3)

22 April: Dudelingen-Swift Dudelingen, Luxembourg

23 April: Willem II v AZ Tilburg (2-1)

24 April: Auxerre v Lens (1-1)

25 April: Fortuna Köln v Germania Windeck Cologne (3-1)

26 April: Maribor v Koper Maribor (1-0)

27 April: Znolnoki v Vasas Znolnok (0-1)

28 April: FC Zurich v Neuchatel Zurich (3-0)

29 April: Reims v Dijon Reims (1-2)

30 April: Chelsea v Tottenham (2-1)

Sunderland v FULHAMTitle Defence 1

Fulham hold the title after an emphatic victory over Bolton Wanderers on Wednesday.
The 3-0 victory not only handed then the 'Unofficial Premier League' title but also ensured Premier League football at the Cottage next season, in fact, I may be wrong but Fulham are undefeated since the unveiling of the Michael Jackson statue. Maybe Mark Hughes told his players "Don't stop til we've got enough" but now they have they want to be starting something by continuing their form until the end of season.
One thing Fulham can aim for is European Football via the fair play league. England find themselves in second place in the UEFA Fair Play League and the top three countries get an extra place in the Europa League and it looks to be between Fulham and Blackpool for the extra spot so if I were Fulham I'd be happy with survival and not tackle anyone then its a second European campaign in three seasons for Fulham.


Sunderland have their problems. They are in the relegation mix, although a few more points will see them safe but they have a problem. No strikers. The injury sustained by Asamoah Gyan mean't all their strikers are out and possibly out for the season. Will Steve Bruce play a 4-6-0 formation tomorrow!!


The last time these two sides met at the Stadium of Light it finished 0-0 and I don't like predicting these results, especially for the Fulham fans making the long trek up north but I can see a repeat. If it ends a draw it could mean survival for Sunderland and Fulham another step closer to European football.


Head 2 Head: Sunderland 20 wins, 15 draws, Fulham 14 wins
Last meeting (@ Stadium Of Light): 28/02/10 - Sunderland 0-0 Fulham
Best odds: Sunderland 13/8 (Bluesq) Draw 23/10 (Stan James) Fulham 2/1 (Victor Chandler)
Prediction: 0-0 17/2 (Stan James) *own goals don't count if you back no goalscorer


Fulham and Sunderland fans feel free to leave a comment (clean ones please)

Fulham set for EuropeFair play opens European door

WorldwideFootball has just heard some news which could see Fulham playing European football next season. 

So far this season they have yet to have a player sent off. The last Fulham player to see  red in the league was Kagisho Dikgacoi in October 2009. This means they are currently leading the Fair Play league with 40 yellows and 0 red cards.

The top three countries in Uefa's Respect Fair Play league get an extra Europa League place, which is given to the highest-place team in the top flight's Fair Play table that has not yet qualified for Europe. So far England find themselves in second place so even though the season hasn't gone to plan for Fulhams followers it could still end with a place in the Europa League so next season the likes of Juventus could be turning up at the Cottage again.

Fulham fans, would you like another season of European football or was it to much of a distraction that spilled over to this season, let us know your views.

New Zealand take final World Cup placeKiwis are heading to Colombia

New Zealand U20's have taken the final place available for the World Cup in Colombina in July after beating Soloman Islands 3-1 today.

Goals from Andrew Bevin, Cory Chettleburgh and Dakota Lucas eased the Junior All Whites to victory and now take their place in this years U20 World Cup.

They will be in Group B along with Portugal, Uruguay and Cameroon. This is the second time the All Whites have qualified for the finals. In 2007 they qualified but lost all three of their group matches in Canada losing to Portugal, Mexico and Gambia but football in New Zealand is on the up so I can see them having enough to get past the group stages this time and continue the upturn of New Zealand football.

We aim to bring you all the coverage of the World Cup when it kicks off on July 29th as well as up to date news on the Copa America and the U21 European Championsips so even though the Premier League season is near completion theres still a lot more football to be played.

VVV sign 18 month old babyNo joke

Dutch club VVV-Venlo have signed Baerke van der Meij. Although we are outside the transfer window there is nothing wrong with this signing as van der Meij wasn't with another club. Reason for this? He is EIGHTEEN MONTHS OLD!!!
Yesterday the club even held a press conference to show off their new signing where, with help from his father, the little wonder penned his ten year contract.
The club who are currently 17th in the Eredivise saw the toddlers skills on You Tube where he placed three footballs into his toy box with stunning accuracy and decided to get him signed up before anyone else got the chance.
If he ever plays for VVV he will be following in the footsteps of his grandfather who also played for the club.

Is this a publicity stunt, is it for real, let us know what you think. Leave a comment or get in touch via email of twitter

Under20 World Cup Groups DrawnEngland given tough group

England have been handed a tough draw this morning after the Group Stages were drawn for the Under-20 World Cup Finals which is being held this year in Columbia.
England begin their campaign against North Korea but then have to play Mexico and arguably the best team at Under-20 level Argentina.
Brian Eastwicks side haven't covered themselves in glory in the past. The best the U20's have achived was a third place finish, beating Australia in 1993. Argentina on the other hand have won five of the last eight competitions so will no doubt be favourites to lift the trophy this year.
Mexico are five-time quarter finalists so are no mugs but England who could play Jack Wilshere, Jack Rodwell and Danny Welbeck should have enough to get past them and then there's North Korea
In the 2010 World Cup North Korea gave their all but just didn't have the skills or experience to put their stamp on the tournament and that is what is expected from their kids.
We are still waiting for the line-up to be completed. One game has yet to be played. New Zealand play Solomon Island for the final place which will see them in Group B with Portugal, Cameroon and Uruguay.

Do you think we should send in the big guns and go for glory or should the Premier League be the main priotity and let the likes of Wilshere and Rodwell get a pre-season under their belt ready for the new season.
Leave a comment.

Group Stages:

A) Colombia, France, Mali, South Korea
B) Portugal, Uruguay, Cameroon, New Zealand/Solomon Islands
C) Australia, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Spain
D) Croatia, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Guatemala
E) Brazil, Egypt, Australia, Panama
F) Argentina, Mexico, England, North Korea

Tournament begins July 29th until August 20th

Fulham set to give Senderos debut

After last nights 3-0 victory Fulham manager Mark Hughes has made sure Premier League football will be gracing Craven Cottage last night.

More good news for Fulhams supporters is the imminent debut of summer signing Phillippe Senderos.

The Swiss international, signed on a free transfer from Arsenal ruptured his achilles just after his transfer but is now ready to make his long awaited return.

Manager Mark Hughes told the Fulham Chronicle: "Philippe's doing really well. He hasn't got the fitness of the majority of the squad because of the time he has had out. We would like to get Philippe a taste of the action but we will have to wait and see."

Senderos had an indifferent spell when playing for Arsenal where he made 64 appearances scoring 4 goals. He has also had spells playing for Everton and a loan spell at AC Milan but could now be ready to begin a new chapter in his football career at the Cottage.

Fulham fans, are you looking forward to seeing Senderos finally making his debut for you and what can he bring to your side? Let us know

New Champions CrownedFulham 3 (Dempsey 15, 48 Hangeland 65) Bolton Wanderers 0

Fulham look assured of keeping their Premier League status next season after a resounding 3-0 win over Bolton Wanderers at Craven Cottage.

USA international Clint Dempsey scored either side of half-time with Brede Hangeland adding a third to earn Fulham a crucial victory which pushed them up five places to ninth, eight points above the relegation zone.

Fulham named an unchanged side to the one that shared the points with Wolverhampton Wanderers, while the visitors welcomed back Tamir Cohen, who scored the winner in Sunday's 2-1 win over Arsenal, for Daniel Sturridge, who is out with an ankle injury.

Dempsey tested Bolton goalkeeper Jussi Jasskelainen in the opening minutes with a low effort, and then watched when Eidur Gudjohnsen fluffed his decent centre into the box by spooning it over the bar.

On the quarter of an hour mark Dempsey put the Cottagers in front. Bolton failed to clear a corner, with the striker thumping the ball high into Jasskelainen's net from 12 metres out in am acrobatic strike that Fulham fans will claim should be one of the contenders for goal of the season.

Just before the half hour Jaaskelainen prevented Bolton from slipping further behind when pulling off a decent save to deny Moussa Dembele's low shot from the edge of the box. The Bolton keeper then did well to deflect a dangerous Gudjohnsen chip.

After a first half dominated by the hosts, it was more of the same after the break, with Dempsey doubling up in the 49th minute.

The in-form American ensured a precious three points for Mark Hughes' side when scoring from six metres out, seconds after Dembele had hit the bar with a long range shot. Hangeland completed a perfect night when heading home Danny Murphy's free-kick

Line Ups:

Fulham: 01-Schwarzer, 03-Salcido, 05-Hangeland, 06-Baird, 07-Sidwell, 13-Murphy, 18-Hughes, 22-Gudjohnsen, 23-Dempsey, 29-Davies, 30-Dembele SUBS USED: 08-Johnson, 20-Etuhu, 25-Zamora

Bolton Wanderers: 22-Jaaskelainen, 02-Steinsson, 04-Robinson, 05-Cahill, 06-Muamba, 07-Taylor, 09-Elmander, 12-Knight, 14-Davies, 21-Cohen, 27-Lee SUBS USED: 11-Gardner, 17-Klasnic, 31-Wheater

Aussie Trotter Leaves Job For Cup Semi

The FA Cup Semi Final might have been a game to forget for Bolton Wanderers supporters but one fan who lost more than most was 50 year old Ian Wagstaff.

A life long Wanderes fan, Ian lives in Australia so getting to games is as difficult as it gets but when Wanderers made the semi final he wanted to be there.

After a long drawn out encounter to find a ticket 'Waggy' finally got his dream ticket, a chance to see his beloved club at Wembley, but there was to be a problem. He couldn't get the time of work, so he did what any other supporter would've done, he quit his job!!!

He told us "I've been a Wanderer all my life. I've watched them in every league apart from the Premier League. I told my boss I wanted to go, but he said we were too busy. I told him I was going anyway. It's not every day you get the chance to watch Wanderers at Wembley."

Unfourtunately this story doesn't have a happy ending. Ian got to see his team at Wembley but Bolton were beaten 5-0 so it ended up being a nightmare trip home for 'Waggy' who not only witnessed his side emphatically beaten but now he has to find himself a new job.

After all this though, if Bolton find themselves back at Wembley you can bet he would do it all over again.

Bolton fans was Ian Wagstaff mad for quitting his job for the semi-final or does he deserve a pat on the back for commitment, let us know your opinion.

Fulham v Bolton Wanderers Title defence number: 1

When I saw this fixture this morning I thought  this could've been the first fixture of the season where neither team had anything to play for, apart from the title defense obviously but looking at the tables I couldn't have been more wrong.
Bolton have an outside chance of taking fifth place which would ensure Europa League football next season whereas Fulham are only five points away from the relegation zone so a win for both sides are vital.


Fulham have been somewhat anonymous this season, in fact it was only when they uncovered the Michael Jackson statue outside Craven Cottage that I remembered they were even in the Premier League!!
Clint Dempsey could make a little bit of Fulham history tonight. Should he score it will be his 32nd goal for Fulham and become their highest Premier League goalscorer.
After last seasons Europa League exploits this season has been somewhat of a downer for the Cottagers. Although they haven't been in trouble towards the bottom of the table they haven't pulled up many trees and progressed from last season's exploits. Although they should be safe for another season Mark Hughes knows he will have to strengthen his squad to avoid trouble next season.
Fulham will be without Damien Duff, Diomansy Kamara and Phillippe Senderos through injury they will be glad to have talisman Bobby Zamora back after a lengthy layoff and he could well spearhead a lack luster attack that has seen them score 37 goals in 33 matches.


Bolton Wanderers, the title holders. They surprised many people at the weekend disposing of previous champions Arsenal, especially after the 5-0 thumping they took at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final but they have had an excellent season. Currently in 8th place they have played some attractive football under Owen Coyle but they still know how to mix it with the best of them. Bolton have seen Kevin Davies and Gary Cahill make their international debuts which goes to show the excellent progress made at The Reebok. Tonight they will be looking at Daniel Sturridge to continue his goal scoring form. Elmander seems to have gone quiet on the scoring front and captain Kevin Davies will continue to be the muscle man up front, getting in where it hurts. Bolton's away record has let them down this season where they have 2 wins in 16 matches, just a couple more wins could have seen then secure European action next season. Fulham's home form is whats keeping them above the relegation zone only losing 3 matches at the cottage this season so with this in mind I can see the Bolton reign as Unofficial Champions ending tonight.


Head 2 Head: Fulham 25 wins, 21 draws, Bolton 27 wins
Last Meeting (at Craven Cottage): 28/11/2009 - Fulham 1 (Duff 75) - Bolton 1 (Klasnic 35)
Best Odds: Fulham 5/6 (Bluesq)     Draw 11/4 (Victor Chandler)     Bolton 4/1 (Bet365)
Prediction: Fulham 1-0 Bolton (25/4 Unibet)

Coyle predicting England call for Sturridge

Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle is predicting the 2011/12 season could be the season where Daniel Sturridge breaks into the England senior side.

The 21 year old currently on loan at The Reebok from Chelsea has netted seven goals in nine appearances since joining Bolton in January and Coyle thinks the form he is in at the moment should be enough to find Sturridge in Fabio Capello's side.

Talking to Tribal Football Coyle said: "Fabio Capello is looking to build a young, progressive and ambitious team and Daniel has got to have a chance to be part of it. I keep going back to what has happened to Jack – and Daniel can make the same progress."

Sturridge will hope to continue his fine form tonight when Bolton travel to London for their Premier League match against Fulham

Bolton fans, do you think Sturridge should be included in Capello's next squad? Chelsea fans, do you think with Anelka, Drogba and Torres in the side Sturridge should be given more of a chance next season or would it be best for Sturridges career if the striker moved in the summer. Let us know your views.

Bolton to wander over the pond to see Uncle SamBolton Wanderers go on preseason tour of America

The 'Unofficial Premier League Champions' Bolton Wanderers have announced they are to tour the United States for pre-season ahead of the 2011/12 season.

Only one date has been announced so far and that will see The Trotters will play Houston Dynamo in the Dynamo Charities Cup on July 20.

One Bolton player who will want to be fit for the tour will be Stuart Holden who made 103 appearances for the Dynamos scoring 15 goals before his move to Bolton. At the moment he is missing for the rest of the season with a cruciate injury but will be hoping to be on the plane heading to his homeland.

Bolton will be the fifth Premier League side to tour the States following in the footsteps of Everton, Manchester City, Manchester United and Newcastle United.

More dates are set to be added to keep us in your favourites and we will fill you in.

New Unofficial Champions Crowned Bolton Wanderers 2 (Sturridge 38, Cohen 90) Arsenal 1 (Van Persie 48)

Arsenal's Official Premier League title bid was surely ended at the Reebok Stadium today as Tamir Cohen scored an emotional late winner for Bolton Wanderers.
The Israeli powered a 90th-minute header past Wojciech Szczesny and then removed his shirt to reveal a picture of his late father Avi, who died in December following a motorcycle accident, before breaking down in tears.
On-loan Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge had opened the scoring in the 38th minute while Kevin Davies also missed a penalty for Bolton at the start of the second half before Robin van Persie netted a 48th-minute equaliser.
The result leaves Arsenal nine points behind Manchester United and three behind Chelsea with only four games remaining.
The first half was a familiar story for Arsenal fans, with the Gunners bossing possession, but struggling to create clear-cut opportunities, while Bolton's more direct approach paid dividends.

Probably the Gunners' clearest opening came inside four minutes when Cesc Fabregas played in Theo Walcott on the right. The England man's strike was parried by Jussi Jaaskelainen and Samir Nasri saw his follow-up effort blocked by a combination of Gary Cahill and Zat Knight.
Arsenal's pace looked to be the greatest threat to the hosts and from a quick break Fabregas forced Jaaskelainen to tip his 25-yard effort round the post before a Robin van Persie volley was well blocked by Cahill.
Bolton were giving the best they had, though, and they probably should have been ahead in the 24th minute when Sturridge caught the Arsenal defence napping with a superb through ball for Lee Chung-yong, but the Korean chose to try to pick out Kevin Davies and the chance was lost.
Lee had another golden chance in the 37th minute, with Sturridge again the architect courtesy of a lovely chip into the centre of the box. The winger made good contact eight yards out but Szczesny was off his line quickly and blocked the shot.
There was no denying Bolton from the resulting corner, though, as Sturridge made the breakthrough. Lee's cross was headed powerfully towards goal by the impressive Cahill and, although Nasri cleared off the line, Sturridge was on hand to head in the ball. Fabregas almost squared things before half-time, but his 20-yard shot cannoned off the post with Jaaskelainen well beaten.
Things got worse for Arsenal in the opening minute of the second half and again it was Sturridge causing the problems. The striker's neat turn took him past Johan Djourou and, when Sturridge fell in the box under pressure from the Gunners defender, referee Mike Jones pointed to the penalty spot. Captain Davies stepped up, but his effort was tame and straight at Szczesny, who easily blocked the shot.
It seemed inevitable Arsenal would capitalise on their second chance and little over a minute after the penalty, Van Persie picked up the ball on the right and played a one-two with Fabregas before placing the ball just inside the post. It was the seventh successive away game in which the Dutchman had found the net, a new Premier League record.
Bolton responded well, but they were indebted to their goalkeeper for keeping them level when Nasri ran on to Van Persie's through ball in the 65th minute. The Frenchman was in space, but Jaaskelainen made himself big to block the initial shot and, although the ball rebounded to Nasri, the angle was too tight and Cahill was able to block his follow-up.
The Gunners pressed, but Bolton defended superbly and it was they who created the clear-cut chance Arsenal craved when Johan Elmander took advantage of a defensive slip to run into the box and fire in a shot at Szczesny, who did well to palm it behind.
There was no stopping Bolton from the corner, though, as Taylor's cross picked out the head of Cohen, who had replaced Sturridge six minutes earlier. With the game in the 90th minute, the Israeli powered a head into the back of the net for his first goal of the season.
Cohen broke down in tears as he was mobbed by his team-mates, but it was Arsenal who were left distraught moments later as Jones blew the final whistle.


LINE UPS:

Bolton Wanderers: 22-Jaaskelainen, 02-Steinsson, 04-Robinson, 05-Cahill, 06-Muamba, 07-Taylor, 09-Elmander, 12-Knight, 14-K.Davies, 15-Sturridge, 27-Lee SUBS USED: 16-M.Davies, 17-Klasnic, 21-Cohen
Arsenal: 53-Szczesny, 03-Sagna, 04-Fabregas, 06-Koscielny, 08-Nasri, 10-Van Persie, 14-Walcott, 17-Song, 19-Wilshere, 20-Djourou, 22-Clichy SUBS USED: 16-Ramsey, 23-Arshavin, 29-Chamakh

David O'Leary sacked by Al Ahli

Former Leeds United and Aston Villa manager David O'Leary has been sacked as manager of Dubai's Al Ahli after less than a year in charge of the club.


O'Leary, 52, joined the club in July of last year but has struggled to play the kind of football to attract fans. They currently find themselves in 7th place in the UAE League 18 points behind league leaders Al Jazira winning 6 games out of their 16 matches.
This sacking shouldn't have come as a surprise as news was filtering out about the impending sacking last month but it is believed the 5-1 defeat at the hands of Al Jazira at the beginning of the month led to the Al Ahli board to decide to dispense of their manager and his assistant Roy Aitken.


O'Leary made his name as a towering center back for the Gunners where he made 722 appearances for the club between 1975 and 1993. Towards the end of his career he was transferred to Leeds United making 12 appearances before retiring in 1995.


He had a successful spell managing Leeds United between 1998-2002 where he oversaw UEFA  and Champions League semi-final defeats before the financial problems began at the club.


In 2003 O'Leary took a struggling Aston Villa side from the brink of relegation to the brink of Europe but in 2006 after an argument with then owner Doug Ellis, O'Leary has his contract terminated.


Despite being linked with various jobs over the years O'Leary had to wait 4 years to get back into work with Al Ahli but less than 12 months later the Irishman finds himself out of work again.

News Update

Yesterday may have lacked action on the pitch but the news was still rolling. This site is a one man operation so it was a struggle to post here, but what happened yesterday?
Well Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier was admitted to hospital yesterday morning suffering from chest pains. It is expected the Frenchman will not be back on the sidelines until the new season. Until then Villa number 2 Gary McAllister will take charge of the first team.
Much was mentioned about Arsenals failure to capitalize on a two goal lead against Tottenham which saw then lead 3-1 and leave White Hart Lane with one point, and an entertaining (for the neutrals) 3-3 draw.
Norwich won the 'Old Farm Derby' beating Ipswich 5-1 at Portman Road, there biggest victory there since the second world war'
North of the border parcel bombs were intercepted by Royal Mail destined for Celtic manager Neil Lennon, Paul McBride QC and Labour politician Trish Godman (both have Celtic connections). Its not known who sent the parcels but the investigation into the incident on March 26 is ongoing.
And finally congratulations go to West Ham's Scott Parker who last night won the Footballer Of The Year by the Football Writers Association just pipping Tottenhams Gareth Bale to the award.


Quite a busy day then yesterday, I endeavour to update the site with more tales from the world of football as well as the news from the Emirates as regining 'Unofficial Premier League Champions' Arsenal are preparing for their trip north to face Bolton Wanderers.


Have a great Good Friday


Jamie

Aston Villa manager Houllier taken to hospital

Taken from BBC Sport:

Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier has been admitted to hospital, the BBC understands.

It is thought he was taken to hospital in Birmingham during the night.

He is understood to have spoken to the club's chief executive Paul Faulkner and his condition is said to be comfortable.

Assistant manager Gary McAllister will take Thursday's training session. The club is expected to release an official statement later.

Houllier is expected to remain in hospital for a couple of days and it is anticipated McAllister will take charge of the team on Saturday for their game against Stoke at Villa Park.

Houllier had major surgery after a heart attack in 2001

WorldwideFootball would like to wish Gerard all the best and a speedy recovery and hope to see him back on the touchline soon.

6 goal thriller that could see both teams loseTottenham Hotspur 3 (Van der Vaart 7, 70pen, Huddlestone 44) Arsenal 3 (Walcott 5, Nasri 12, Van Persie 40)

A flurry of five first half goals lit up the north London derby as Tottenham and Arsenal played out an attacking and thrilling game which provided a glut of goals at White Hart Lane.
Goals from Theo Walcott, Samir Nasri and Robin Van Persie for the Gunners and Rafael Van Der Vaart and Tom Huddlestone for Spurs were enough to seal what could be the game of the season in the Premier League.
The draw, in reality, doesn't help either side in their respective aims as Arsenal fail to make the most of Manchester United drawing on Tuesday and Spurs needed the win to keep the pressure on Manchester City, but those in attendance will have not have thought a fantastic display from both sides.
The importance of tonight’s game was paramount for both sides. Tottenham were coming off the back of their exit from the Champions League at the hands of Real Madrid and Arsenal were keen to expel the Liverpool result from their memory.
Arsenal came out of the traps with purpose and positivity. The game begun in a style often expected of local derbies, fast, fluid and full of endeavour and within 5 minutes the opening goal had rocked White Hart Lane. Cesc Fabregas, so often a tormentor of Spurs, made the most of a Tom Huddlestone error to feed Theo Walcott. The through ball left Michael Dawson limbo and Walcott did the rest with a burst of speed and a deft right foot finish.
The frantic tempo of the game continued and within three minutes Spurs had wiped out the advantage. A long, looping pass from Vedran Corluka found Rafael Van der Vaart who controlled magnificently and hammered beyond Wojciech Szczesny to level things up.
Arsenal though once again showed the undeniable quality they possess, but often, frustratingly fail to impose. Samir Nasri was left unchecked and this flaw in the Tottenham defence was punished as the Frenchman made Gomes look ordinary as he beat him low to his right.
Theo Walcott had a chance to increase the lead but his low drive took the lightest of deflections of the right hand of Gomes to slide wide of the right hand post.
Walcott’s influence on the game stretched to more than just scoring the goals.  With a terrific chipped cross on the byline, Walcott crafted a goal for Robin Van Persie who made it 3-1.
Credit to Tottenham for exhibiting the tenacity required to keep this close and once again Harry Redknapp’s side bounced back through a Tom Huddlestone goal which atoned for his earlier error. A header from Peter Crouch was poorly cleared by Fabregas and Huddlestone smashed the ball back into the danger area leaving Szczesny a forest of legs to look through as he tried in vain to deal with the shot.
The second half didn't slow down and there were chances aplenty as both sides continued hell for leather.  Van Der Vaart had a chance for a second but it wasn't until substitute Aaron Lennons speed beat Szczesny and the Polish 'keeper brought down the winger to give Spurs the chance to level it up once more.
Van Der Vaart stepped up to the spot with confidence and hammered the ball in to give Spurs a way back and deal another blow to Arsenal.
Tottenham had more chances to take the lead with Modric forcing a brilliant save from Szczesny and Peter Crouch heading over the bar. Neither side was willing to give an inch as both were fighting to hold supremacy in their patch.
The game will be remembered for many years as the goals, commitment and sheer entertainment were something not likely to be seen anytime soon. But the truth remains that both sides needed to win this encounter and because they failed to do this, both Manchester sides would have been very pleased with the result.


LINE UPS:


Tottenham Hotspur: 01-Gomes, 03-Bale, 06-Huddlestone, 09-Pavlyuchenko, 11-Van der Vaart, 13-Gallas, 14-Modric, 15-Crouch, 20-Dawson, 22-Corluka, 32-Assou-Ekotto SUBS USED: 04-Kaboul, 07-Lennon, 30-Sandro
Arsenal: 53-Szczesny, 02-Diaby, 03-Sagna, 04-Fabregas, 06-Koscielny, 08-Nasri, 10-Van Persie, 14-Walcott, 17-Song, 20-Djourou, 22-Clichy SUBS USED: 19-Wilshere, 23-Arshavin, 52-Bendtner

The most important North London derby of all time?

Tonights game will be the 166th North London derby but this one is probably the most important fixture out of the lot of them.
Arsenal slipped up at the weekend when they conceded a penalty in what felt like the 196th minute of injury time and many thought their title aspirations had gone up in smoke but last nights draw between Newcastle United and Manchester United mean't the race was firmly back ON.
Tottenham need a win. Their recent exploits in the Champions League has whet the apetitie for Harry Redknapp, the fans and the players and if Spurs want to keep hold of the likes of Luka Modric and Gareth Bale then they have to qualify for the Champions League again. They are currently 3 points behind Manchester City with this game in hand, plus like last season Tottenham have to play the Citizens. Also going against Tottenham is a fixture after the FA Cup Final where Stoke play Manchester City and Stoke could hand City the 3 points to ensure they have a European campaign next season so Tottenham know 3 points tonight is vital.
The Gunners currently find themselves 7 points behind Manchester United. A win tonight and the lead is cut to 4, if they beat Manchester United at The Emirates on May 1 then the lead is 1 point so even though the gap looks huge the title is still within grasp
This fixture has produced goals in the last couple of years Arsenal won 4-1 in the Carling Cup this season but Tottenahm got revenge winning 3-2 at The Emirates plus of course there was that 4-4 draw in the 2008/09 season so hopefully this run will continue tonight and we have an entertaining 'Title Match'.
For me, I can see Tottenham starting quick and get an early goal but after a ding-dong battle the final result will be a 2-2 draw.
Lets hope Football is the winner :-)


Tottenham/Arsenal fans what do you think the result will be like and will a draw end your title/Champions League hopes?
Let us know what you think email jaymoe26@gmail.com or twitter @jamiemason76

Nigerian International dies in car accident

WorldwideFootball wish to join the rest of the footballing world in passing on their condolenses to the family of Olubayo Adefemi who died yesterday after being involved in a car crash.

The 25 year old, capped 5 times by Nigeria, was driving from Xanthi to Salonika heading home to Nigeria to finalise his wedding details when he lost control of his car, he died at the scene.

The defender had spent most of his career playing in Israel before signing for Skoda Xanthi in 2010. He made 24 appearancse for his club scoring twice.

Adefemi's Zambian team-mate Chris Katongo says Xanthi players were in shock when they heard news of the death of the popular player. He told BBC Sport "It was a good day and all the players were laughing and joking when the manager came in and broke the news. Everyone is in shock. Even as I am speaking I am thinking it is a joke but it is true. I can't believe this"

 Skoda Xanthi are planning a friendly in the close season in aid of the defenders family.

Eboue heading for the exit at the Emirates

Emmanuel Eboues future at Arsenal is in doubt according to the Daily Mail

It has been reported Wenger has finally lost patience with the Ivory Coast international and has decided it may be time to cash in on the player.

After the game against Liverpool onSunday it seemed Wenger had stood by his player insisting the penalty should never have been awarded but now the title may be out of reach for this season Wenger may have to make changes to his squad with Eboue one of the players likely to leave.

One player who could be beading to the Emirates could be Mamadou Sakho. It's believed Arsenal have offered a fee in the region of £13m for the defender who has also been courted by Liverpool.

PSG would like to keep hold of the player, who only signed a new contract at the start of the season, but should the Parisians fail to qualify for next season Champions League then they might have to cash in. Arsenal have looked vulnerable at the back despite having the second best defensive record in the league but this signing should bring a more solid looking defence next season.

Arsenal fans, what do you think of the possible in's and outs of your club during the summer. What do you think Arsenal need to end their trophy-less run. Email jaymoe26@gmail.com or twitter @jamiemason76

Thomas Rensen a.k.a SUPERFAN31 matches in 31 days, an epic footballing challenge

In the world of Football we have fans, we have fanatics and then there is Thomas Rensen.
The 29 year old from Hilversum is taking part on a solo mission to watch 31 matches in 31 days. Not only does this sound impossible already but the fact he will be travelling all over Europe to see these games make it even more fascinating.
Speaking to Worldwidefootball Thomas told us why he is doing it, he said: “The answer is simple, I love to see football matches, to me this is a dream. Whatever happens it’ll be a unique experience”
The first match of the tour saw him in Belguim watching England U17 v Spain U17 and will take him to countries such as Germany, England, Wales, Luxembourg and Croatia.
Thomas has had the idea for a while and is funding it himself while the Inter-Rail organisation gave him a ticket to help get across Europe and so far we are up to match number 20 and so he’s not tired of the game yet.
Rensen will be looking forward to April 23rd when he will get the chance to see his beloved Willem II when they host AZ Alkmaar but he won’t have time to catch up with friends and family back in Holland, he will be back on the trains heading to Belguim for a play v off match (yet to be decided)Just to be on the safe side Thomas has included a 32nd match, Chelsea v Tottenham Hotspur. This has been put in as an emergency measure. Should there be a problem he has decided to put an extra fixture in just to make sure he hits his target of 31 matches.
I bet once the tour is finished the last thing he will want to see is football. But I’d be wrong. Thomas will be taking a week to relax and how will he be relaxing, well watching football of course.
We heard about this mission on twitter and look forward to his updates to see how he is getting on but if you would like to follow him for yourself you can either visit our page or head straight to Thomas’ website http://uk.31matches.eu/
Here’s Thomas hectic schedule (results in brackets)
31 March: England U17 v Spain U17 (2 v 1)
1 April: Bangor City v Prestatyn Town (1 v 2)
2 April: West Ham United v Manchester United (2 v 4)
3 April: Hertha BSC v Paderborn (2 v 0)
4 April: Djurgardens v AIK (0 v 0)
5 April: BK Skjold v BGA (3 v 1)
6 April: Dynamo Dresden v Rot Weiss Erfurst (1 v 3)
7 April: Vyle v Tharoul v Spa (3 v 3)
8 April: Rheindorf Altach-Balzers 1-1
9 April: Dinamo Zagreb v Lokomotiva (1 v 0)
10 April: Proleter Novi Sad v Mladost Lukani (1 v 1)
11 April: Sparta Praag v Slavia Praag (2 v 0)
12 April: Eschen/Mauren v Balzers (2 v 1)
13 April: Schalke 04 v Inter Milan (2 v 1)
14 April: PSV v Benfica (2 v 2)
15 April: Metz v Clermont  (3-3)
16 April: AC Milan v Sampdoria (3-0)
17 April: Basel v Grasshoppers (2-2)
18 April: Karlsruhe v Augsbur 0-1
19 April: First Vienna v Kapfenberger SV (beker)
20 April: Roma v Inter (beker)
21 April: Freiburg v Hannover
22 April: wedstrijd in Luxemburg
23 April: Willem II v AZ 18u45
24 April: Belgische Playoff
25 April: Fortuna Koln v Windeck
26 April: Maribor v Koper (beker)
27 April: Debrecen v MTK
28 April: Langenohr v St.Pölten II
29 April: Reims of Metz
30 April: Chelsea v Tottenham

Ryo hoping to impress in ArgentinaJapanese star hoping tournament kicks off Arsenal career

Arsenals Japanese winger Ryo Miyaichi could be set to make his debut for the Gunners at the beginning of the 2011/12 season but everything depends on whether he plays for Japan during the Copa America which begins in July.


Miyaichi, 18 signed for Arsenal in January this year but due to work permit problems the winger wasn't allowed to stay in the country so Arsene Wenger allowed the U17 and U20 international to join Feyenoord on loan until the end of the season.


While in Holland Miyaichi has been in impressive form for De club aan de Maas netting 3 goals in 10 appearnaces and has even earned the nickname Ryodinho due to his playing style being compared to the Brazilian Ronaldinho.


Italian club Udinese are apparently monitoring the situation but Arsenal's hierachy believe Miyaichi is one for the future and want to hold on to him.


Japan were invited to appear in the Copa America and initially pulled out due to its clashing with the beginning of the reformed J-League but now the Japanese FA have agreed to send a team out to Argentina for the tournament and Miyaichi is expected to earn his first cap for the national side and possibly a starring role for the Gunners next season.


Arsenal fans are you looking forward to seeing if Miyaichi is as good as people think, will this make you watch the Copa America during the close season. Let us know email jaymoe26@gmail.com or twitter @jamiemason76

Djourou "We must take our frustrations out on Tottenham"

After the tenth minute of injury time yesterday Arsenal were still in the hunt for the Premier League title but a push by Emmanuel Eboue on Lucas was punished by the referee Andre Marriner who awarded Liverpool a penalty. 

Dirk Kuyt stepped up and scored. Not only did it means a share of the spoils but it also mean't Arsenal were virtually out of the title race.

Manchester United could extend their lead at the top to nine points should they beat Newcastle United on Tuesday so Djourou knows whatever the result Arsenal must win the North London derby on Wednesday.

Speaking to Arsenal TV online he said: "The gap has grown a little bit now but we must keep going because you never know what can happen, starting at Tottenham. It's a shame about the Liverpool result. We thought we had it in the bag. Our home form is the issue. That's three home draws in a row and we have to learn. This team has a lot of quality and character, we just need to bounce back and keep fighting starting on Wednesday."

Have Arsenal got the character to bounce back and get themselves back in the title hunt or is that it for the season? Arsenal fans let us know email jaymoe26@gmail.com or twitter @jamiemason76