Lionel Messi shrugs off criticism

Lionel Messi says he will continue to play for Argentina despite harsh criticism about his performance for the national team.
Messi on Thursday responded to Julio Grondona, the president of the Argentina Football Association, who suggested the star Barcelona playmaker could quiet the criticism by declining to play for his country.
Messi and Argentina played poorly in their first two group games in the Copa America and were booed off the pitch in one of them. But on Monday, Argentina beat Costa Rica 3-0 to reach the quarterfinals, and Messi showed some of the form he regularly displays with Barcelona.
"Although they criticize me, I will always come to the national team," Messi said in a press conference. "Criticism by the fans bothers me and everyone, but we are aware that we didn't do things correctly."
"Nobody likes to be whistled at," Messi added. "It happened because the team did not play well."
Grondona, in a radio interview, talked tongue-in-cheek about Messi staying away.
"The solution would be if (Messi) said: 'I'm not coming again, I'm staying in Spain.'"

Previewing Copa America quarterfinals

The Copa America group stage was a hit-and-miss affair, with superpowers Brazil and Argentina struggling until the final game, when each team seemed to spring to life. But now we're down to the business end of the tournament when there's no margin for error. Here's a look at the key questions all eight team managers face as we head into the quarterfinals, which start Saturday.

Colombia vs. Peru

How does Dario Hernan Gomez use his wingers?


With the exception of Carlos Sanchez replacing Gustavo Bolivar in the holding midfield role after the opening game, Gomez has kept the same side and formation throughout Colombia's three games in this competition so far. The one slight difference in tactics has been the use of Adrian Ramos and Dayro Moreno, the two wingers. Not only do they both have the ability to play on either flank, meaning mid-game switches are possible, Gomez has sometimes used them very high up against the opposition fullbacks, making a 4-3-3. At other points, he has brought them back alongside the two central midfielders, meaning more of a 4-1-4-1.


In all probability, they'll play both roles, depending on whether Colombia has the ball -- Gomez's side will dominate possession, and the positioning of the wingers will dictate how aggressive it is going forward.

How does Sergio Markarian breach the Colombian defense?
Colombia is the only side yet to concede a goal in this tournament, a record made all the more impressive by the fact that it has left out the player many would consider its best defender, Cristian Zapata, who this week joined Villarreal from Udinese.


Markarian will be consoled with the fact that he has one of the tournament's few in-form strikers, Paolo Guerrero, who scored two goals in two starts before being rested for the final group game against Chile. He's been excellent at leading the line. His only mistake has been a miss late on against Uruguay, when he should have headed Juan Vargas' cross in.

Guerrero thrives off delivery from wide areas, but since he's likely to be up against 35-year-old Mario Yepes and 32-year-old Luis Perea in this match, he'll be better off testing them for pace. His goal against Uruguay came from a long ball over the top -- he outsprinted the center backs, rounded the goalkeeper and tapped in. A similar direct approach might be in the cards here.

Argentina vs. Uruguay

How does Sergio Batista get Lionel Messi on the ball?
Messi's performance against Costa Rica in Argentina's previous game was possibly his best-ever performance at the international level. He picked up two assists, and could have had more were it not for the woeful finishing of Gonzalo Higuain. Batista will start with the same XI against Uruguay, meaning Higuain will start up front, Messi will play behind, with Sergio Aguero on the left flank and Angel di Maria shuttling forward from midfield. The right flank may be bare, with Messi and Higuain covering that side without the ball.


Messi will quickly be confronted with the Uruguayan duo of Egidio Arevalo and Diego Perez in the center of midfield, however. They work excellently as a unit, and will be focused upon stopping Argentina's No. 10. He'll be confident of dribbling past them, but if Messi finds it difficult to receive the ball, does he come deeper and isolate Higuain, or move higher up and make the initial pass to him more difficult? Alternatively, does he move back to his old position on the right?


What formation does Oscar Tabarez play?
Tabarez is a tactical chameleon, having played 3-5-2, 4-3-3, 4-4-2, 4-4-1-1, 3-4-3 and a 4-4-2 diamond at one point in last summer's World Cup and this Copa America tournament. The only constant is the use of Perez and Arevalo as a double pivot in the center of midfield.


This might be a rare occasion when he can afford to stick with the same formation, however. A narrow 4-4-1-1 worked well against Mexico, as Uruguay pressed well and dominated the ball in the center of the pitch. With Argentina's fullbacks not a huge attacking threat, Uruguay can afford to play without much width. Diego Forlan can drop deep and link play, and Luis Suarez can use his pace to trouble Argentina's elderly center backs.


Another decision is at left-back. Tabarez has used both Martin Caceres and Alvaro Pereira there -- the former is a better defender, but the latter is far superior on the ball, and has scored two goals in this competition. With Argentina set to either (A) not play a right-winger or (B) play the world's best footballer there, this is likely to be the key battleground.

Brazil vs. Paraguay

Which attacking combinations does Mano Menezes look to?



Menezes seems set to play the same side that overcame Ecuador in Brazil's final group game, which means Robinho starting on the right rather than Jadson, the man who started and scored in the group phase contest between these two sides.


Robinho's impact against Ecuador was negligible, and it seems strange that Menezes would choose to play a wide forward rather than Jadson, an attacking midfielder who plays much narrower. After all, Jadson combined with Ganso to open the scoring against Paraguay, and the two worked a great chance for Pato in the first half. Brazil's last-gasp equalizer also came right down the center of the pitch -- Ganso flicking the ball on for Fred. Paraguay looked most vulnerable through the middle, so the use of a wide forward would be a curious decision.


If Robinho does start, it will be interesting how Brazil plays in the final third. Will it still try to play through the middle, or will it embrace its width and play down the flanks? The fullbacks overlapping might be key -- Andre Santos crossed for Pato's first goal against Ecuador, and Maicon (in for Daniel Alves) stormed forward to assist Neymar's goal.


How does Gerardo Martino get Nestor Ortigoza on the ball?
Ortigoza, the small, stumpy and -- OK, we might as well say it -- rather plump Paraguay central midfielder has been one of the competition's star performers, dominating the midfield zone with his intelligent short passing, and sometimes knocking longer cross-field balls to the flanks to start attacks. He is likely to be the most important player in this match. Brazil can find itself a little understaffed in midfield when Ganso pushes forward and links up with the front three, and if Paraguay can get the ball quickly to Ortigoza, Paraguay can break forward and catch Brazil out on the break.

Chile vs. Venezuela

Who will Claudio Borghi play as the No. 10?


Chile started the tournament with Mati Fernandez in this position, but injury forced him to give way in the opening game against Mexico, and Luis Antonio Jimenez has played there since.

There is another contender, though: Jorge Valdivia, who actually wears the No. 10 shirt so revered in South America. He has been recovering from injury and has so far been limited to two substitute appearances, but he's still managed to show his class. A superb pass for Jean Beausejour got Chile back into the game against Uruguay, and there is an increasing feeling that Valdivia is the missing part of the puzzle.


A further decision is who should replace Beausejour on the left, after he was sent off in the final group game against Peru. He's started the past six Chile games in that position and is excellent at stretching the play on the left, making his absence a real blow. Arturo Vidal might be the solution. He's played as a central midfielder, a left wing-back and even a left-sided center back so far in this tournament.


How does Cesar Farias instruct his side to attack?
Chile is likely to make most of the running in this game, pressing from the front and getting plenty of men forward into attack. Venezuela will spend most of the game camped in its own half. The question is, how do Farias' men form attacks of their own?


Chile seems most vulnerable to quick, direct counterattacks -- the sheer number of players it pushes forward means it's often exposed at the back. This might suit Venezuela well. Farias likes to bring his wide players, Juan Arango and Cesar Gonzalez, into the center of the pitch quickly, turning a 4-4-2 into a 4-2-2-2, and meaning that quick forward passes are always an option.


The key factor might be how far Arango and Gonzalez track the Chilean wing-backs. If they go all the way and end up on the edge of their own box, they'll find it difficult to break. If they're a little braver and remain higher up the pitch, counterattacks will be much easier, and Venezuela could spring a surprise.

Brazil could play without Thiago Silva

Brazil could be without defender Thiago Silva against Paraguay in the quarterfinals of the Copa America on Sunday because of a right thigh muscle injury.
Thiago Silva missed Brazil's practice on Friday and doctors said it was unclear whether he would recover in time for the decisive match in La Plata.

Doctors said they will wait to see how the healing process progresses and reevaluate the AC Milan player on Saturday. The Brazilian football federation said the injury stems from natural fatigue after the three group matches.
If Thiago Silva is not able to play, coach Mano Menezes will have to choose between Benfica defender Luisao or Chelsea's David Luiz to play alongside veteran captain Lucio.
The 26-year-old Thiago Silva has been a regular starter since Menezes took over the national team after the World Cup last year. The coach used Thiago Silva and David Luiz in friendlies leading into the Copa America, but then brought Lucio back to add experience to the team, benching David Luiz.
Luisao hasn't played much under Menezes, but he has the experience of having played in the last two Copa Americas, both won by Brazil.
The possible change for Sunday's match could add even more pressure on the Brazilian defense, which has been criticized after below-average performances in the South American competition. Brazil allowed two goals in each of the last two matches after unusual defensive breakdowns and individual errors, including two by goalkeeper Julio Cesar against Ecuador on Wednesday.
"The defense hasn't been playing badly, we just allowed some goals because of mistakes, that happens in football, it's normal," Lucio said.
The coach likely won't have to make any other changes to the team after it improved significantly against Ecuador following the draws against Venezuela and Paraguay in the group stage. Menezes hasn't announced the official lineup, but could leave it unchanged for the first time in the tournament.
He hinted that Maicon will remain in the lineup after his impressive performance against Ecuador, when he replaced Daniel Alves on the right side of the defense. Daniel Alves made an error that cost one of Brazil's goals against Paraguay last week.
"It's up to Mano to decide who will be playing," Maicon said. "But if he decides to choose me, I hope I can play up to expectations and help again, just like I did against Ecuador."
Brazil was already without midfielder Sandro because of injury. The Tottenham player was dropped from the team earlier this week because of a left knee ailment.
Brazil is playing the Copa America with a squad mixed with veterans and young promising stars, including Paulo Henrique Ganso and Neymar, as Menezes works toward building a team for the 2014 World Cup at home.

Young signs for United

Manchester United have announced the signing of England international Ashley Young from Aston Villa.

United have long been expected to tie up a deal for Young, who had expressed a desire to play Champions League football, and the 25-year-old has now completed the move after the clubs agreed a fee reported to be between £15 million and £20 million.
A statement on Manchester United's official website read: "Manchester United is delighted to announce it has reached agreement with Aston Villa for the transfer of Ashley Young. The player passed a medical in Manchester this week and has agreed a five-year contract."
Young added on MUTV: "The opportunity to come and play for one of the biggest clubs in the world is one I couldn't turn down. It's a chance to hopefully become part of their history by helping to win the 20th title.
"It's a prospect I always looked at from being a child: to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. I've got that opportunity now so I've just got to take it with two hands."
Young, though, admits he faces a tough prospect to become a first-choice winger where he is set to compete with the likes of Antonio Valencia, Nani and Park Ji-sung.
''There's a lot of competition for places at the club,'' he said. ''If you are in the team there is always going to be someone biting away at your heels trying to get in.
''I'm going to be coming in looking to establish myself in the team. I know it is going to be a challenge, but I'm up for that challenge. It is a fantastic team. The club always produces fantastic players. They have that winning mentality. I hope to be a part of that this season. I can't wait to get started.''
New Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish was already resigned to losing Young as his contract was set to expire next summer, and he has passed on his best wishes to the player.
"Ashley has made a terrific contribution for Villa in the last four-and-a-half seasons and everyone at the club wishes him the best for the future," McLeish said. "He has become an important player in the England team during that time and I am sure he will be looking forward to this new challenge."
Young signed for Villa from Watford in January 2007 for an eventual fee of £10 million and scored 38 goals in 190 appearances. Watford are apparently due to receive 15% of the sell-on fee Villa have received as part of the original agreement.

FIFA eyes 2014 preparations in Brazil

MOSCOW -- FIFA remains concerned at the slow pace of Brazil's preparations for the 2014 World Cup, saying soccer officials in South America appear to have invested more energy in winning the tournament than organizing it.
"We don't have stadiums, we don't have airports," secretary general Jerome Valcke said on Friday at the Inside World Football forum in Moscow.
He added it looked increasingly likely that some facilities, including Rio de Janeiro's iconic Maracana, would be ready with only a few weeks to spare.
"The Maracana is not a World Cup stadium" yet, Valcke said, adding that in Brazil "the main issue is not to organize the World Cup but to win the World Cup."
Brazil, which won hosting rights by default after other South American nations withdrew, has been mired in organizational and bureaucratic problems since it was announced as host in 2007.
Builders working on one of the stadiums only this week returned to work after going on strike over pay and conditions. About 160 of the nearly 400 workers helping to upgrade Mineirao Stadium in Belo Horizonte stopped working this month. The agreement includes a 4 percent wage hike, a health plan and more overtime pay.
Belo Horizonte is one of the cities vying to host the opening match. Others include the capital, Brasilia, and Sao Paulo, South America's biggest city.
Brazilian lawmakers this month were forced to approve a raft of measures aimed at reducing the paperwork needed to clear various infrastructure projects. The changes reduce the time to conclude the bidding processes on tenders, eliminating some stages and need for approval.
Saint-Clair Milesi, a spokesman for the local World Cup organizing committee, said from Brazil that with the exception of Sao Paulo, the construction of new stadiums and renovation of existing ones is "continuing according to schedule."
He declined to comment further.
Ricardo Leyser, a top official with Brazil's Sports Ministry, told the Estado de S. Paulo newspaper Friday that "it is obvious that Brazil will be ready on time to host the World Cup."
"We have no doubt that all the work being done to prepare the country to host the games will be concluded on time," Leyser said.
Valcke urged Russia, which is hosting the event for the first time in 2018, to have the required 12 stadiums ready two years in advance to allow time for test events.
Russia is building most of the facilities from scratch in a $10 billion project, a budget that doesn't include the massive infrastructure improvements needed such as rail networks, new roads and airport upgrades.
It was Valcke's first public appearance since FIFA exonerated him of wrongdoing for saying Qatar had "bought" the 2022 World Cup hosting rights.
Valcke alluded to the maelstrom of corruption allegations surrounding FIFA in recent months, beginning his keynote speech by saying, "It's good to talk about football. I mean, we need it at FIFA sometimes."

Charlie Davies fined $1,000 by MLS

NEW YORK -- D.C. United's Charlie Davies has been fined $1,000 by MLS for taking a blatant dive to draw a penalty kick that led to a goal late in Saturday's game against Real Salt Lake.

Davies flopped to the ground in front of Chris Wingert in the 83rd minute. The referee awarded a penalty kick despite Wingert's protest, and Davies converted to salvage a 1-1 draw.

MLS has been trying to crack down on diving this season. League vice president Nelson Rodriguez said Friday that "this type of behavior tarnishes the image of the league."

He says future diving infractions that impact a game could lead to suspensions.

Juve announce signings of four players

Juventus have announced the permanent signings of four players: Alessandro Matri, Fabio Quagliarella, Simone Pepe and Marco Motta.

The quartet had all been on loan at Juventus, but the club have taken up the option to buy them all on deals that are worth just over €35 million over a three-year period.
A statement on the club's official website read: ''Juventus Football Club announces the exercise of the rights of option for the definitive acquisitions of the following players:
Alessandro Matri from Cagliari Calcio for €15.5 million; the player has signed a four-year contract. Fabio Quagliarella from S.S.C. Napoli for €10.5 million; the player has signed a three-year contract. Simone Pepe from Udinese Calcio for €7.5 million; the player has signed a four-year contract and Marco Motta from Udinese Calcio for €3.75 million; the player has signed a four-year contract.''
New manager Antonio Conte has already seen the arrivals of Reto Ziegler and Andrea Pirlo, as Juventus prepare for a season without European football.

Sunderland swoop for Westwood. Larsson

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has pulled off a double transfer swoop by landing free signings Keiren Westwood and Sebastian Larsson.

The Black Cats have agreed terms with out-of-contract Coventry goalkeeper Westwood and Birmingham midfielder Larsson, who remain contracted to their current clubs until June 30 but will officially become Sunderland players on July 1.
Westwood was on Wearside earlier this week to finalise the deal and undergo a medical, and fellow 26-year-old Larsson followed him on Wednesday as Bruce finally tied up two deals which he had been pursuing for several weeks.
There were suggestions that the Black Cats could face late competition for Larsson from Aston Villa, now managed by former Birmingham boss Alex McLeish, but they moved swiftly to get their man today.
Bruce had identified the pair as two of three Bosman signings he hoped to make during the early weeks of the summer transfer window, and having missed out on Lorient midfielder Morgan Amalfitano, will be delighted to have succeeded.
The Black Cats will now concentrate on their remaining targets, with efforts to recruit South Korea striker Ji Dong-won ongoing despite his club Chunnam Dragons confirming his imminent departure in a statement.
It said: "Ji Dong-won is joining Sunderland on a three-year contract. The terms negotiated by the two clubs regarding transfer fee and salary will not be released publicly."
Ji is yet to head for Wearside and has therefore not undergone a medical, but work is continuing behind the scenes.
The striking department will be Bruce's main priority for the summer after he finished last season with Asamoah Gyan as his only fit frontman.
Loan signing Danny Welbeck has returned to parent club Manchester United and hopes to have a role to play at Old Trafford next season, while Fraizer Campbell will be sidelined by his latest knee injury for much of the new campaign.
Sunderland have now firmed up their interest in Ipswich's Connor Wickham with a bid, although the 18-year-old has many admirers and there is sure to be a battle for his signature if the Suffolk club decide to sell.
In addition, they are pursuing their interest in United trio Darron Gibson, Wes Brown and John O'Shea, who were the subject of a joint £12million-plus bid earlier this month.

Downing closer to Liverpool move

Stewart Downing is on the verge of joining Liverpool after being told by Aston Villa that he is free to leave the club, according to a report in the Daily Mail.

Downing is understood to be on his way to Anfield if the Reds are able to meet the £19 million asking price for the winger. It is believed that new boss Alex McLeish is reticent to lose the England international, but with recent contract talks at Villa Park stalling, the club may be prepared to take accept a transfer fee and move instead for Charles N'Zogbia from Wigan.
McLeish earlier told the Birmingham Mail that while he was resigned to losing Ashley Young to Manchester United, he was still interested in keeping Downing.
"He is a top player," said McLeish. "He has got a couple of years left on his contract and it is very important that we hold on to Stewart. I want Stewart to stay. I saw his statement. I'll have a go at talking to Stewart and see what happens.
"The guys are on holiday at the moment. When they are back in England I will try and get a meeting with them. I don't know but it seems that Ashley is going to leave. I don't know if the Young one is a fait accompli but I'll certainly be looking to try and keep Stewart."
Liverpool have also been scouting cheaper alternatives to Downing, including Dimitri Payet from St Etienne, but the Englishman is still the club's preferred target.
Meanwhile, the movement at Villa is set to continue, with Rangers confirming they have made an offer to Carlos Cuellar, while McLeish is expected to announce the signing of Germinal Beerschot's Victor Wanyama, despite the midfielder being heavily linked to Swansea and Celtic.

Gerrard: We must compete with United

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says that the club will be motivated by trying to haul back Manchester United's Premier League title record next season.

Gerrard, 31, believes he has at least four years left in the game and is keen to add the only significant club winner's medal still missing from his personal trophy cabinet after the Old Trafford club claimed a record breaking league title No. 19 in May.
"As a Liverpool fan and a player it's frustrating when you see your arch-rivals lifting trophies but you've got to give credit where it's due. They've won it, they've overtaken us," he said. "Now the challenge for us is to equalise. We've got to make sure we've got a squad capable of going into the season and competing with Manchester United."
Gerrard's last Liverpool appearance was against Manchester United in March, when the Reds toppled their rivals 3-1, but the Anfield side fell woefully short of top spot last season and Gerrard missed a large chunk of the season through injury.
The skipper, however, believes he will be back in top form and, alongside some new signings, is hopeful of a more productive campaign next year.
"We're happy with what we've achieved but there's still a lot of time for me to achieve bigger and better things,'' he added. ''I'd like to finish my career with a few more trophies.
"I always look at the 35 marker. If I get there and I'm still involved with Liverpool I'll be delighted but at the moment I'm feeling as good as ever. I've had time to get my body right, get my body strong. I'm still four or five weeks away from playing a game but I believe I'll come back in better physical condition than I've ever been.
"I want to come back with a bang, I want to have a big season. It's been non-stop football for me since I started when I was 17. I've never had a period of more than four or five weeks out of the game, so it's been nice to rest mentally.
"You don't want to miss games but when you're watching them it gives you that edge, that buzz to get back. I'll come back hungry and hopefully there's a very productive season ahead for me. I've had a rest mentally, my injury's coming on well and I can't wait for the season to start."

David Beckham hopes to play in 2012

David Beckham thinks he'll be more useful as a player than a coach at the 2012 London Games when Britain fields its first Olympic soccer team since 1960.
The former England captain will be 37 when his home country hosts the Games, but he insists he will be fit.

"There are 13 months to go and there are a lot of decisions to be made but I wold love to be part of it," Beckham told the BBC on Monday. "I'm sure I'd be better as a player than a coach, so I'll have to wait and see. I still feel as if I'm 21 when I'm playing. I still love the game like I did when I was 21. I still feel as fit.
"Everyone knows I have looked after myself -- eating-wise, fitness-wise. So I'm not in bad shape and I'll continue to work hard and hopefully I can be part of it."
England under-21 coach Stuart Pearce is set to lead the team, with The Football Association administering the squad and providing all the players.
The Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish associations won't be part of the team because of fears it would jeopardize their independence and voting rights within FIFA.
Beckham was at the World Cup last year as a member of England coach Fabio Capello's support staff after being ruled out with an Achilles tendon injury.
While Beckham made the last of his 115 appearances for England in October 2009, he is still playing for the Los Angeles Galaxy.
But Beckham might not be with the Galaxy by the time the Olympics start in July 2012, with his five-year Major League Soccer contract expiring at the end of this year.
Beckham has yet to announce what he plans to do after that.
"I've always said I will continue playing as long as I am enjoying the game," he said.
Beckham was in London to attend a sponsorship event linked to the Olympics where print journalists were not allowed to ask questions.

“ I'm sure I'd be better as a player than a coach, so I'll have to wait and see. I still feel as if I'm 21 when I'm playing. I still love the game like I did when I was 21. I still feel as fit. ”

 David Beckham

Kaka sitting out to rest knee

Brazil coach Mano Menezes says Kaka called him and asked to be left out of the Copa America squad so he could have more time to regain his form following knee surgery.
Menezes says Kaka told him that he would rather rest and focus on properly preparing himself for next season with Real Madrid so he can try to play at a high level again after undergoing left knee surgery earlier this year.
In an interview with the SporTV channel Monday night, Menezes also hinted that Real Madrid defender Marcelo was left out because he recently asked to be released from the squad citing an injury he had not actually sustained. The coach said he found out that Marcelo told club officials that he was able to avoid the call-up to the national team.

Ronaldo won't leave Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo says he will not leave Real Madrid amid rumors of Manchester City trying to lure the Portugal forward back to England with a huge contract.
Ronaldo told Spanish radio Cadena Cope on Tuesday that "I am not going. I give you my word. Today I would sign for 10 more years with Real Madrid."
He didn't, however, rule out a future move from the Spanish giants: "Could I think differently tomorrow? Yes. No one knows the future of a player."

The 26-year old forward even left open the possibility of joining Madrid's rival Barcelona.
He said "play for Barca? Never is a strong word."

Last season, Ronaldo set a Spanish league record with 40 goals as Madrid finished second to Barcelona for the third straight year.

Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Arsene Wenger Could Move for Scott Dann

Scott Dann may not be the defensive solution to excite Gunners fans when considered in light of Birmingham's relegation from the Premier League.  Most think of Dann's fellow stopper Roger Johnson when examining any defensive merits offered by Birmingham City.

It is worth considering though that when Dann went down injured, Birmingham's free fall in the league started to gather momentum.  The loss of Dann severely undermined Birmingham's previously respectable defensive record.  As the number of goals conceded increased, it began to look as if Dann was the strongest link in the Birmingham defensive chain after all.
A question mark concerning any potential move for Scott Dann will be how well he can recover from the torn hamstring he suffered in January.  The 24-year-old would need to demonstrate the appropriate fitness to be ready for the start of the next campaign, after sitting out the last 18 Premier League matches.
The 6'2" former Coventry City and Walsall player provided a steady, calm presence in the Birmingham defense.  The solid, efficient play of Dann allowed Roger Johnson to step out and attack the ball with freedom.  This contributed to the image of Johnson as the more accomplished of the two.  Scott Dann is a combative and resourceful defender.  His composure could be invaluable in an Arsenal back line too often crippled by panic and indecision. 
Arsenal would have to act fast to ward off interest from Liverpool, the club Dann supported as a child.  But with a price tag in the £8-10 million range, Arsene Wenger could be tempted by Dann as a solid and cheaper alternative to Gary Cahill.

Battle For Scott Dann Picks Up

Following the announcement that Championship side Birmingham City are ready to sell Roger Johnson due to financial constraints, Liverpool and Arsenal have stepped up their chase for his defensive counterpart Scott Dann as the battle for British talent continues.
Over the last week and a half we have seen a number of British clubs looking to build for the future as they seek new and exciting British talent as they look to purchase a new breed of players as almost all clubs considered to be within the top four clubs in England look to youth over experience.
According to news reports this morning, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has pin pointed Dann as one of his primary targets for the summer transfer market proceedings as he looks to gear up for the upcoming season.
Arsenal will face a challenge for the 24 year old defender following the declaration that Liverpool are also interested in the young English born defender following an alteration to the club’s stance towards purchases after the appointment of Kenny Dalglish into a permanent managerial role with the club.
Birmingham have already announced that the only reason that they are looking to offload players is due to financial constraints that come as part of their relegation from the Premier League last season, opening them up to losing some of their best players.
Dann stands at 6ft 5in and plays within the centre of defence, an area in which both Arsenal and Liverpool have identified as a major issue within their performances last season and with the news that Dann is a childhood Liverpool supporter, thoughts are that he will be more than willing to overlook Arsenal in line with a move to his favourite club.

Scott Dann to Arsenal?

Skysports.com understands Arsenal are ready to rival Liverpool for Birmingham defender Scott Dann.

Arsenal chief Arsene Wenger has made a new central defender one of his top priorities as he looks to shore up his rearguard after they looked suspect at the back last season.

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is looking to bolster his squad as he seeks to get the side back in the top four and Dann figures highly on his shopping list.

Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Arsene Wenger Could Move for Scott Dann

Scott Dann may not be the defensive solution to excite Gunners fans when considered in light of Birmingham's relegation from the Premier League.  Most think of Dann's fellow stopper Roger Johnson when examining any defensive merits offered by Birmingham City.

It is worth considering though that when Dann went down injured, Birmingham's free fall in the league started to gather momentum.  The loss of Dann severely undermined Birmingham's previously respectable defensive record.  As the number of goals conceded increased, it began to look as if Dann was the strongest link in the Birmingham defensive chain after all.
A question mark concerning any potential move for Scott Dann will be how well he can recover from the torn hamstring he suffered in January.  The 24-year-old would need to demonstrate the appropriate fitness to be ready for the start of the next campaign, after sitting out the last 18 Premier League matches.
The 6'2" former Coventry City and Walsall player provided a steady, calm presence in the Birmingham defense.  The solid, efficient play of Dann allowed Roger Johnson to step out and attack the ball with freedom.  This contributed to the image of Johnson as the more accomplished of the two.  Scott Dann is a combative and resourceful defender.  His composure could be invaluable in an Arsenal back line too often crippled by panic and indecision. 
Arsenal would have to act fast to ward off interest from Liverpool, the club Dann supported as a child.  But with a price tag in the £8-10 million range, Arsene Wenger could be tempted by Dann as a solid and cheaper alternative to Gary Cahill.

Diaby admits to wearing Spurs shirt

Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby has risked angering Gunners fans by admitting that he owns a Tottenham shirt and wears it when he is at home.

Diaby, 25, has come under fire for his performances on the pitch for the club this season and is now likely to face both barrels from the stands as well, after he revealed his liking for Arsenal's bitter North London rivals.
He told the Sun: "It's [the shirt] more difficult to wear in the street. There you are not safe."
The shirt was given to him by friend and fellow France international Younes Kaboul, who Diaby would also like to play alongside at club level. He said: "It would be good to play for the same club one day."
Meanwhile, Arsenal team-mate Johan Djourou says that Lille striker Gervinho - rated at £10 million - would be a great summer signing for the club.
"I have followed a bit of the French league this season and I have to say Gervinho is a great player," said Djourou at an event for his Kemi Malaika Foundation in Senegal.
"I have known him for a long time and he is just a great player & quick, with so much talent and good skills. He is a great, great talent and we need that because he can play as a striker, as a No10 or on the wing. He has all the ingredients to play for Arsenal, that is a definite."

Adams: Graham was better than Wenger

Arsenal legend Tony Adams claims that George Graham was a better coach than Arsene Wenger.

Wenger has come under scrutiny of late, having failed to deliver a trophy to the Emirates for a sixth straight year, which has unsettled star players such as Samir Nasri and captain Cesc Fabregas.
However, it was still surprising to see Adams, one of the club's favourite sons, give a negative evaluation of arguably the club's greatest ever manager.
"No disrespect to Arsene, but George's coaching ability, defensive structure and technical ability, for me, is far better,'' Adams told the Daily Mirror. ''It's his strength, and that was George's particular strength. I think Wenger is a magnificent physiologist and psychologist. Those are the areas where he excels."
Adams, who is currently coaching in Azerbaijan, won two league titles under Graham and the Double twice under Wenger.
"Maybe not this year, but next season, I might have a chance of winning the Azerbaijan league title with Gabala and going into the Champions League qualifying rounds," he added. "We could even play Arsenal, but they are struggling to get in the top five now, aren't they? Who knows?''

Liverpool FC: Downing, Dann, and Henderson in This Mornings Transfer Rumors

Liverpool keeps hot and heavy at the transfer market. Yesterday they marked the first signing of the summer with the Arrival of Jordan Henderson from Sunderland and more details continue to arise.

Other plans to strengthen are in the works but one player whom will not be coming in is Phil Jones. The former Blackburn Rover is no longer on the radar as he has opted to join the Red Devils of Manchester. This leaves opportunity to secure Birmingham's Scott Dann for a better price than Jones would have demanded if the Reds continue with their other youthful centerback prospect.

Stewart Downing is also again in the news as a Reds target, and he is linked with a move to Anfield as a cheaper alternative to his fellow Aston Villa attacker, Ashley Young.

 

Scott Dann Now the Primary Young Center Back Target for Reds

24-Year old Birmingham City defender Scott Dann is now a main defensive target for the Reds as Phil Jones is now on his way to Manchester United. Dann is Liverpool born and bred and is a professed life long Reds fan. That makes the situation almost ideal for the young man to make a move to Anfield after his club was relegated on the last day of the Premier League season.

His value is believed to be in the £10million range and his attacking mentality that has seen him bag 13 goals during his career between several teams also plays into Kenny Dalglish's new system.

The Daily Mirror reported this morning that Dann was indeed under pursuit from the Reds as the next in line centerback option.

Santos demand £41m for Neymar

Chelsea have been told that they will have to dig deep to the tune of £41 million if they are to prise Brazilian sensation Neymar away from Santos.

Neymar is one of the hottest properties in world football and has admirers all over Europe. Chelsea have long been in the frame and owner Roman Abramovich gave the green light to the deal last year, only to see the offer rebuffed.
Neymar's stock has continued to rise and that previous gambit from Stamford Bridge falls below Santos' valuation.
"Last year Santos received an offer of £32 million from Chelsea and it was rejected," the player's agent Wagner Ribeiro told The Sun. "Now he would not leave for less than £41 million."
Ribeiro is doing a decent job of talking up his client, likening him to world superstar Lionel Messi.
"Neymar is like Messi," he said. "Soon he will be the best in the world as he is a player like no other. "He is just 19 but all the big clubs are following him."

Usain Bolt: I could play for Man Utd

Athletics star Usain Bolt has said that he would like to play football when he retires from his current sport, and showed his trademark confidence by suggesting he is good enough to play for Manchester United.

Bolt, who gained a worldwide audience at the 2008 Beijing Olympics by setting records for both 100 metres and 200 metres, is confident he could electrify Old Trafford in the same manner.
"I really want to try soccer after I retire because I've watched football over the years and I think I could be a good contender," Bolt told the BBC. "I'm really looking forward to it and yes, I definitely think I'm good enough to play for Manchester United. I'm good enough because I'm quick, I have a little skill - I have to refine it a little bit but I should be good enough."
The speedy Jamaican met the Red Devils at their training ground back in 2009 and apparently offered sprinting tips to then-United star Cristiano Ronaldo.
Even if it isn't for Sir Alex Ferguson's squad, Bolt is expected to arrive in England next summer to compete in the 2012 Olympic games in London. For now, the world's fastest man is focusing on his 200 metre offering at Thursday's Diamond League meeting in Oslo.

Ferdinand comes bottom in vocab study

An analysis of footballers' vocabulary on social networking site Twitter has revealed Manchester United Rio Ferdinand to have an overwhelmingly 'basic' command of the English language.

Ferdinand, who has led the way for footballers on Twitter under the name @rioferdy5 and recently engaged in a war of words with Daily Mirror journalist Oliver Holt, has been criticised by former News of the World editor Piers Morgan for his poor spelling and grammar.
And now, a Google study has revealed that 88% of Ferdinand's words were "basic" while 11% were "intermediate".
Other players to have been tested fared better, with Ferdinand's United team-mate Wayne Rooney (@WayneRooney) surprisingly articulate, with 43% basic and 56% intermediate.
Everton skipper Phil Neville had the most expansive vocabulary among his peers, using 59% intermediate words mixed with 40% basic.
However, none of the footballers in the study used more than 1% in advanced words.

Birmingham want £15m Dann payment

LIVERPOOL, Tottenham and Arsenal will have to find £15million to sign unsettled Birmingham defender Scott Dann.

The centre-back, 24, has told the relegated Carling Cup winners he wants out.
But Brum have slapped a huge price tag on Dann as they prepare for life in the Championship.
Scouser Dann supported Liverpool as a boy, while Arsenal and Spurs have confirmed he is a target.

Birmingham City's Scott Dann is ruled out for the rest of the season

Birmingham City manager Alex McLeish has confirmed that Scott Dann is unlikely to be play again this season.

The defender requires surgery in his hamstring, a major blow for the club as they struggle to avoid relegation.

The 23 year-old sustained the injury at Upton Park last week during Birmingham City’s 2-1 Carling Cup semi-final first leg defeat to West Ham, and McLeish accepted it has in all probability ruled the defender out for the rest of the season.

"It will be a long shot for Scott to be back before the end of this season," admitted McLeish."It is not totally confirmed yet but we are going to miss him for a long time. It’s a blow and, first and foremost, we wish the big fella a successful recovery.”

Dann has been a fundamental presence in the Birmingham back four since joining from Coventry in June last year, and the success of his partnership with Roger Johnson at the heart of the Birmingham defence has seen him linked with Manchester United.

Fortunately for McLeish there are players capable of sitting in for Dann. McLeish deployed Liam Ridgewell at centre-back in Dann’s place against Aston Villa on Sunday, but he also has Czech international Martin Jiranek, who was on the bench.

Liverpool FC make approach for Birmingham defender Scott Dann

Liverpool have made an approach for Birmingham City defender Scott Dann.

The 24-year-old has been tracked by the Reds after emerging as one of the country's leading centre-backs at St Andrews since arriving from Coventry City over two years ago.

A hamstring injury sustained during Birmingham's Carling Cup semi-final with West Ham in January prevented Dann from aiding Alex McLeish's side in their battle for Premier League survival, which included a 5-0 hammering at Anfield in April.

But the Liverpool-born defender, who has been likened to Kop legend Alan Hansen, could remain be set for a return to his boyhood club with the Blues expected to demand up to £10million for his services as they prepare to face next season in The Championship.

Barcelona's Jeffren tonight revealed that he is also the subject of interest from Liverpool.

The Venezuelan-born winger, however, refused to be drawn on his future until he returns from international duty with Spain at this month's European Under-21 Championships in Denmark.

"I am not thinking about anything like that [my future] at the moment," he told radio station Cadena Ser.

"I just want to concentrate on this [European Under-21 Championships]

"It makes me proud that teams like Liverpool are interested in me. We’ll see what happens."

Walcott fears Nasri exit

Theo Walcott has stressed Samir Nasri's importance to Arsenal as speculation intensifies that the France international could be set to leave the club.

• Nasri refuses to commit future
• Agent: Nasri wants to stay
Nasri's contract runs out at the end of next season and talks over a new deal have stalled, with the midfielder reportedly unhappy with the salary on offer.
He struck fear into the heart of Gunners fans at the weekend by refusing to rule out a move to Manchester United - and Walcott concedes Nasri could be headed to one of Arsenal's rivals.
"I don't like getting involved in people's careers," Walcott told Sky Sports News. "We need to keep hold of our best players - but it's up to Samir, it's his decision. He had a great season, he showed people what he can do. He's a very important player to Arsenal and we'll see what happens in the summer."
Meanwhile, Walcott has backed manager Arsene Wenger's declaration that he will be more active than usual in the summer this year. Wenger is believed to be targeting defensive reinforcements - ideally ones with experience of Premier League football - as he looks for Arsenal's first trophy since the 2005 FA Cup.
"Yeah [I'm expecting players to be signed], the manager's said so," Walcott said. "Hopefully we can keep hold of our best players, as we need to be winning something next season without a doubt. It's been so long and the fans have waited so long. And players don't like seeing every season go without winning anything."
Walcott hopes some summer signings can help give Arsenal a ''cutting edge'' next season.
''It will be interesting to see who comes and goes in the summer, the boss has said he is going to spend,'' Walcott told BBC Sport. ''We have got a great squad and play the best football, it is just a cutting edge which we need.
''It is disappointing for us players because we want to give the fans something to cheer about and we want to be in the history books. It was not meant to be this season, but we have shown great potential, with Jack Wilshere coming through, Aaron Ramsey is coming back to form as well, which was great to see, so I think it will look quite good for us next season.
''It has got to be because there is a lot of competition with Manchester City and Liverpool coming into the frame now, so it is going to be a very interesting Premier League.''

Swansea seal Graham signing

Swansea have confirmed the signing of striker Danny Graham from Watford for a club-record fee.

• Newcastle in for Taylor
The Premier League new boys have splashed £3.5million on the 25-year-old, who will sign a four-year contract.
Graham was the top scorer in the Championship last season with 24 goals and was a reported target for a host of top-flight sides. The deal for Graham remains subject to a medical, which will be completed when the player returns from holiday.
A Swansea statement read: "The club has today agreed personal terms with Watford striker Danny Graham. Graham will sign a four-year contract with an additional 15% sell-on clause to Watford on any profit above the £3.5million.''
Swans chairman Huw Jenkins added on the club's website: "Danny has also spoken to [Swans manager] Brendan Rodgers at length. He is thrilled to conclude the deal and is looking forward to the challenge of Premier League football with Swansea.
"He is a player we have admired for quite some time and as a football club we are delighted to get our man. Brendan is looking forward to working with him and there is no doubt he will strengthen our team for the new campaign.''
Graham, who began his career at Middlesbrough, scored 41 goals in 99 appearances for the Hornets since arriving at the club from Carlisle in a £350,000 deal in 2007.
Carlisle are also set to profit to the tune of nearly £500,000 as the result of a 15% sell-on clause in the deal that took Graham to Vicarage Road.

Redknapp: Stars staying put

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has again insisted he will not allow any of the club's top players to leave this summer - and claims Luke Modric is worth far more than £20 million.

• Tottenham sign Friedel
The club's failure to book a second successive season in the Champions League had led to speculation that some of the bigger clubs in Europe could cherry pick their stars. But Redknapp says that will not happen.
Instead Redknapp plans to strengthen the team to break back into the top four, with the task likely to become even harder next season with Liverpool's Kenny Dalglish expected to spend big.
"We are not selling Luka, we are not selling Gareth and we are not selling Sandro," he told Sky Sports News. "We are looking to build a team at Tottenham, not dismantle one.
"If we're going to push on as a football club we need to keep them players and we need to add one or two other top players to them if we're looking to have a chance of ever getting back in the Champions League again.
"It's been busy - I've been busy doing nothing really, we haven't got anywhere.
"There's been lots of phone calls, lots of talk in the newspapers but we're really at the moment not close to making any signings and certainly not looking to sell any of our better players.
"So we're not looking to sell them players - that would be a massive backward step for the club. £20 million for Luka? They've got to be dreaming, he's such a fantastic player.
"You know, we've enquired about players and we're getting quoted more than that for people that couldn't lace his boots so it's not a goer. I wouldn't put a value on him, I wouldn't want to sell him. He's one of those boys every day you come into work for me, and that's what it's about now.
"I come in and I see him and he's just a great guy, he trains, gets on with the job, never complains, he loves his football. He's the most low maintenance, easy to handle professional you've ever seen and he's a fantastic player so he's the last player you ever want to see leave your football club - he's irreplaceable."
Modric's advisor also appears to have ruled out a move, with Manchester United one of his suitors. Croatian paper Jutarnji List quotes Mario Mamic as saying: ''Luka will not go to Manchester United and he will also stay at Tottenham because I know that chairman Daniel Levy will not let him go."

Crouch won't turn back on England

Snubbed England striker Peter Crouch insists he is not about to turn his back on his country and intends to carry on playing international football.

Crouch was unhappy at being overlooked by England boss Fabio Capello in Saturday's 2-2 draw against Switzerland and it was reported he might call time on his career with the Three Lions.
Despite an impressive record of 22 goals in 42 games, and with Wayne Rooney suspended, Crouch did not even make the bench at Wembley, with Capello favouring Fulham's Bobby Zamora over the Tottenham striker.
Crouch, 30, admits he was disappointed to be left out but said at no point will he turn his back on his country.
"Do I want to carry on playing for England? Yeah, of course. I would never give up playing for my country at any stage. It's an honour,'' Crouch said.
Crouch's club boss at Tottenham, Harry Redknapp, has urged the player to stick it out with England.
Discussing Crouch and England, Redknapp told Sky Sports News: ''It's been great for him playing for his country. He's had a great run of it, the last few years. So I don't see any reason he should want to pack up. I'd encourage him to keep playing and keep wanting to play for England.
''And all those lads, I don't see how they would want to give up their international careers. It's such an honour to play for your country, you'd think they'd want to play forever. But if he asked my advice I would certainly tell him to keep playing, and if he's picked, play.''

Germany, Italy win Euro qualifiers

Germany and Italy moved closer to a place at the 2012 European Championship with victories Friday, while France's progress stalled against Belarus.

Mario Gomez kept Germany's perfect record in Group A intact with a first-half goal and a late winner in a 2-1 victory over Austria. Italy cruised to a 3-0 win over Estonia in Group C, providing some positive news for the country amid the latest match-fixing scandal.

France remains atop Group D despite a 1-1 draw at Belarus, which had won in Paris earlier in the campaign. France had been on a four-match winning streak.

Giuseppe Rossi, who scored 32 goals for Villarreal last season, put Italy ahead after being set by Cassano, who doubled the lead before half time from a Riccardo Montolivo pass.

Giampaolo Pazzini added a third goal by finishing off a counterattack in the 68th minute, while Rossi and Andrea Pirlo also hit the post in a dazzling display.

The match came three days after 16 arrests up and down Italy, with numerous more under investigation for allegedly fixing games. Italy is five points ahead of Slovenia, which beat Faeroe Islands 2-0 despite having Marko Suler sent off after 25 minutes.

Serbia is eight points back and Estonia nine points behind.

In Group A, Bayern Munich striker Gomez put Germany ahead just before the break, scoring from close range after Austria's defense failed to clear the ball after a corner kick.

Austria equalized in the 50th when Germany defender Arne Friedrich tried to clear a cross by David Alaba before it reached Martin Harnik but could only deflect the ball past goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. But Gomez struck an 89th-minute winner, steering home a cross by captain Philipp Lahm to claim his 18th goal for Germany.

Germany has a seven-point lead over Belgium, which squandered a late chance to beat Turkey when Axel Witsel blazed over a penalty in a 1-1 draw.

In Group D, Florent Malouda scored an equalizer to earn France a 1-1 at Belarus.

An own goal from France defender Eric Abidal gave Belarus the lead in the 20th minute, but Malouda finished neatly two minutes later after being set up by Karim Benzema in France's first attack of the match.

France remains top of Group D with 13 points, while Belarus is second with nine, while Romania beat Bosnia 3-0 to climb above its opponent into fourth place.

In Group E, Sweden swept past Moldova 4-1 on Friday to tighten its grip on second place.

Sweden has 12 points from five games, three ahead of third-place Hungary, which has played a game more. Netherlands leads the group with 18 points.

Croatia scored two late goals to secure a 2-1 win over Georgia to lead Group F over Greece.

FIFA eyes Argentina-Nigeria betting

FIFA and Nigeria's soccer federation are investigating Argentina's 4-1 loss in Nigeria on Wednesday after betting patterns suggested it was targeted by match fixers.

It is the highest profile match yet in a wave of suspicious recent international exhibitions, often with goals scored from penalty kicks.

The match "was one that we had an active interest in, and forms part of a wider ongoing FIFA investigation," soccer's world governing body said Saturday.

FIFA was "working closely" with its betting monitoring agency, Early Warning System, which tracks wagers placed with more than 400 operators worldwide.

A second-string Argentina team was outplayed by Nigeria, which earned its first victory over the South Americans in a one-sided match.

The Nigeria Football Federation, which organized the match, said it would help FIFA's investigation and also set up its own inquiry, but denied any knowledge of match fixing, stressing it was "unaware of any suspicious motives in this game."

"We will put all these measures (the inquiry) in place in the spirit of fair play and transparency," NFF General Secretary Musa Amadu said in a statement. "But we would still insist that, until it is proven beyond doubt, we believe that we won this match fair and square ... There remains, to the best of our knowledge, no untoward motives to this game than to play it fairly and win it fairly."

Argentina coach Sergio Batista, talking Saturday at a press conference in Warsaw ahead of his team's exhibition against Poland on Sunday, said he "did not notice anything alarming" during the Nigeria match.

Hours before kick-off at the National Stadium in Abuja on Wednesday, FIFA President Sepp Blatter launched his "Zero Tolerance" campaign to stop corruption in soccer.

FIFA's 208 member nations in Zurich also passed new rules to control the organization of international matches, including the power to veto referee appointments.

Referee Ibrahim Chaibou of Niger awarded two penalties -- one to each side -- in Wednesday's game between two teams who played each other at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Nigeria took a 2-0 lead with a 26th minute spot-kick after Chaibou awarded a foul against Argentina defender Federico Fazio.

Five minutes of stoppage time were announced at the end of the match, with play continuing until the 98th minute, when Argentina scored with a penalty kick from Mauro Boselli.

Argentina's spot kick was awarded by Chaibou for a debatable handball after the ball appeared to strike a Nigerian defender on the shin and then bounce up and hit a teammate on the thigh.

Argentina fielded a below-strength lineup without star forwards such as Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Angel di Maria.

However, there was no suggestion that players from either team were involved in manipulating the match.

Chaibou is one of the most experienced FIFA-approved referees with 15 years' service on the international list. He was born in 1966 and must step down this year on reaching FIFA's referee age limit of 45.

As match-fixing investigations develop across the world, FIFA announced last month it would pay Interpol $29 million over the next 10 years to educate referees, players, coaches and officials in how to resist corruption.

"FIFA is currently receiving lots of information and cooperation across Europe, Asia, Africa and South and Central America, and as an organization we are committed to tackling this problem in the most vigorous way possible," the governing body said.

Maradona calls FIFA leaders 'dinosaurs'

Diego Maradona says corruption and match-fixing scandals that have hit FIFA will continue as long as the sport's governing body is run by "dinosaurs."
The Argentine was in Dubai on Saturday to sign a two-year contract to coach the local Dubai Al Wasl club.
Maradona said FIFA had been badly run over the years and attacked the re-relection of president Sepp Blatter "who has never kicked a football." Maradona said an ex-soccer player should be in charge but did not suggest anyone.
Maradona hasn't coached since leading his country to the 2010 World Cup quarterfinals. His contract was not renewed after the World Cup.
The Dubai club has not provided any details of the contract, and Maradona denied reports he is being paid $10 million.

Man U's Paul Scholes retires

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes announced his retirement on Tuesday, ending the trophy-laden career of a famously low-key player widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted of his generation.
The 36-year-old Scholes made 676 appearances for United after making his debut for the club in 1994 and was the midfield heartbeat of a team that has dominated English soccer for the past two decades.
Spain midfielder Xavi called Scholes "the best central midfielder that I have seen," while France great Zinedine Zidane once branded him "almost untouchable."
"I am not a man of many words but I can honestly say that playing football is all I have ever wanted to do and to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United has been a real honor," said Scholes, who eschewed the celebrity lifestyle of many modern day soccer players and rarely gave interviews.
"This was not a decision that I have taken lightly, but I feel now is the right time for me to stop playing."
Scholes won 10 Premier League titles -- and 24 trophies in total -- with United, scoring 150 goals, but was no longer a regular choice in the first team by the end of the recently completed season, leading to growing speculation about his playing future. His last appearance for the northwest power was as a late substitute in Saturday's 3-1 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League final at Wembley.
Earlier in the month, he had helped United claim a record 19th English title, overhauling Liverpool as the country's most successful league team. He made 66 appearances for England before retiring from international soccer in 2004 to concentrate on his club career.
A one-club man, Scholes said he will stay at United by taking up a coaching role starting next season.
"What more can I say about Paul Scholes that I haven't said before," United manager Alex Ferguson said. "We are going to miss a truly unbelievable player.
"Paul has always been fully committed to this club and I am delighted he will be joining the coaching staff from next season. Paul has always been inspirational to players of all ages and we know that will continue in his new role."
Starting out as a deep-lying forward, Scholes eventually dropped back into central midfield where his touch, technique and vision could be more effectively utilized. He never lost his eye for the goal, though, and turned his late runs into the penalty box into an art form.
Scholes had a particularly fierce shot and was always dangerous from outside the box.
"He can play the final pass, he can score, he is strong, he never gets knocked off the ball and he doesn't give possession away," Xavi said. "If he had been Spanish then maybe he would have been valued more."
The only part of Scholes' game that let him down was his tackling, which was often late and clumsy. He missed the dramatic win over Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League final because of suspension, but started in 2008 when United beat Chelsea on penalties in Moscow to claim its third European Cup.
"It is very sad day for Manchester United fans around the world," said United chief executive David Gill. "We all know that Paul was one of the players that came through the ranks of the academy system in the 1990s and has established himself as one of the greatest players to ever wear the United shirt."
After Gary Neville, Scholes is the second member of the batch of young talent to burst into United's first team during the early 1990s, which also included David Beckham and Ryan Giggs, to retire this season.
"I was fortunate to play alongside him for many years," Beckham said. "He was not only one of England's best ever players, he was a dedicated professional. We knew him as the 'silent assassin' as he was quiet but boy could he make himself heard through his tackles on the training pitch. I'm still carrying a few bruises. What a great career and a Man United legend."
Neville posted on Twitter: "Paul Scholes- The Best! Great Player, Person, Friend."
United defender Rio Ferdinand used his Twitter account to describe Scholes as "the BEST player of his generation."
"Paul Scholes aka Sat Nav went from a scoring midfielder to a dictator of the game(changed his game while still at top of the game)," Ferdinand wrote.
Current England coach Fabio Capello tried to tempt him back to the national team just a few weeks before last year's World Cup in South Africa but Scholes declined, saying he hadn't been given enough time to make the decision.

Argentina: No drug testing in 1993

Argentina's soccer federation says it was not required to have drug testing for a 1993 World Cup playoff against Australia.
Former national coach Diego Maradona said last week in a TV interview that Argentine players were given "speedy coffee" to perform better, and that FIFA Vice President Julio Grondona did away with doping controls for the games.
Tuesday's statement by the Argentine Football Association was its first in writing since Maradona's remarks. The statement -- titled "The honor of everyone is saved" -- did not address the comment about stimulants or mention Maradona.
The federation said doping tests at the time were required only for the World Cup itself. It said all Argentines involved followed the rules "to the letter of the law."
Maradona and Grondona have been feuding since last year's World Cup, when Grondona declined to renew Maradona's coaching contract. Grondona hired Maradona despite his lack of coaching experience.
Grondona acknowledged last week there were no doping controls, partly to protect some players.
"A small personal controversy has been generated in recent days, when an ex-player believed that with his inexact words and bad intentions he could damage -- or attempt to damage -- the dramatic qualification against Australia," he said.
Grondona said last week there was an agreement with Australia to prevent drug testing. However, Ian Holmes, who was the Australia federation chief in 1993, has said there was no such agreement.
Argentina played to a 1-1 tie in the first match in Sydney, then won 1-0 in Buenos Aires to advance to the tournament.
At the 1994 World Cup in the United States, Maradona was suspended for testing positive for stimulants after a first-round game against Nigeria. FIFA subsequently suspended him for 15 months.
Grondona is in Zurich for Wednesday's FIFA presidential election, which has been overshadowed by bribery allegations against two executive committee members -- Jack Warner and Mohamed bin Hammam.
The 79-year-old Grondona has been an executive committee member since 1988 and is listed as a senior vice president. He is the only one of eight FIFA vice presidents to carry that title. Grondona is also the chairman of FIFA's finance committee, of which Warner and bin Hamman are members.

Giuseppe Signori arrested in probe

Former Lazio captain Giuseppe Signori was among 16 people arrested on Wednesday for alleged involvement in a match-fixing and betting ring throughout Italy.
Others arrested included current players in Serie B and C, executives for lower-level clubs and betting operators.
The police operation was based in Cremona and arrests were carried out in more than 10 cities across the peninsula. Matches under investigation included some involving Atalanta and Siena, prosecutors said, which could put the two clubs' recent promotion back into Serie A at risk.
There was a failed attempt to fix a Serie A match between then-European champion Inter Milan and Lecce at the San Siro in March, Cremona prosecutor Roberto Di Martino said. Inter won 1-0.
In all, 18 matches -- mostly in Serie B and C -- are under investigation, and Italian soccer federation prosecutor Stefano Palazzi already has opened a sports inquiry into the matter.
The revelations came amid a spate of betting scandals scattered throughout European soccer leagues, with the latest cases in Germany and Finland.
Signori was the Lazio captain in the mid-1990s and led Serie A in scoring in three seasons. He also made 28 appearances for Italy from 1992 to 1995, scoring seven goals.
Signori, who retired in 2006, allegedly led a group of bettors in Bologna that had a direct impact on the match-fixing, according to the ANSA news agency. He was put under house arrest.
"Don't you have any pity in this situation? Have some mercy. I can't say anything. I will meet with my lawyer and then he'll speak for me," Signori told ANSA.
Di Martino told a news conference that the investigation began following a Serie C match between Cremonese and Paganese in November. Cremonese players allegedly had their drinks spiked with drugs so they wouldn't play well, and several players felt ill afterward.
"One player was involved in an unexplainable car accident, after which Cremonese registered an official complaint with the police," Di Martino said, adding that the drug used was a sleep medication.
The betting ring is suspected of paying off one or more players on a team to fix a match, and then placing large bets on legal bookmaking websites mostly based in Asia, to avoid betting being suspended for abnormal patterns.
"The inquiry is focused on this season, but my impression is that this went on for years," Di Martino said.
Others arrested reportedly include two players with Serie B's Ascoli -- defender Vittorio Micolucci and midfielder Vincenzo Sommese -- Benevento goalkeeper Marco Paoloni, plus former Serie B and C player Gianfranco Parlato.
In addition, some 30 people are under investigation for alleged involvement, including Atalanta captain Cristiano Doni and former Serie A player Stefano Bettarini, ANSA said.
One of Italy's biggest soccer betting scandals came in 1980, resulting in numerous arrests and bans for club officials and top players, including Paolo Rossi, who returned to lead Italy to the 1982 World Cup title.
In 2006, a major match-fixing scandal restricted to club and referee officials -- not involving players -- resulted in Juventus getting relegated to Serie B for a season, plus point penalties for several other Serie A clubs.
Multiple legal cases and appeals from the 2006 scandal are still under way.
"We certainly didn't need this right now," said Italy and Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. "But let's wait and see until we know something more definitive before we issue judgment."
Damiano Tommasi, the new president of the Italian players' association and a former Roma player, called it "one of the ugliest pages" in Italian soccer history.
"Every once in a while we have to turn these pages. Let's hope we can do so quickly," Tommasi said. "It's the players that will end up on the front pages, but I think something larger will emerge. I'm telling (the players) to be careful."