Frank Lampard Appointed England's Vice-Captain

Frank Lampard has confirmed reports that he will be England's new vice-captain in the wake of Steven Gerrard's promotion to England skipper.

Fabio Capello has handed the Chelsea man the responsibility and Lampard says he is proud to assume the role.

"I am vice-captain," Lampard told journalists at a press conference.

"I was told by the manager and Franco Baldini [Capello's assistant] yesterday and I am very proud of that.

"Obviously I am very disappointed for Rio. He is a mate.

"But what can I do? I shall just try to give my input as a vice-captain."

Lampard came through the ranks at West Ham United with Rio Ferdinand and as a close friend stressed his deep sympathies for the Manchester United defender.

"I am very disappointed for him to say the least," said Lampard.

"I spoke to him last night and he is obviously very down.

"He is such a good mate and for this to happen in the build-up to the biggest tournament made me feel sick in my stomach."

And personal sympathies aside Lampard knows that England can ill-afford to do without such an important player.

"We will miss him first and foremost on the pitch because of the quality he has on the pitch, he is one of the best centre-backs in the world," he continued.

"He has always had that bubbly character and we will miss that character."

Nonetheless Lampard insists that sympathy for Ferdinand will only increase England’s team unity and backed Tottenham Hotspur’s Michael Dawson to thrive as a replacement.

"It is natural for everyone in the camp to feel disappointed for Rio but when we trained today it was at full pelt," he said.

"Dawson has turned up now and he is the sort of lad that fully deserves the call-up for the season he has had.

"We can use it [Ferdinand's injury], yes, as a little bit of extra bonding. We have lost a big player but we all have to get together."

United And Arsenal To Miss Out On Joe Cole

Soccernet understands that Arsenal and Manchester will lose out on signing Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole on a free transfer, while Manchester City and Tottenham remain firmly in the hunt for his signature.

Speculation has continued to mount over Cole's future, and he seems certain to leave Stamford Bridge as talks over a new contact stalled before he set off for South Africa after making Fabio Capello's final England squad.

Spurs, Arsenal, United and City have all been linked with a move for Cole, though it appears that Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger are unlikely to have the midfielder at their disposal next season.

A source close to the transfer activity told Soccernet: "My information is that Joe Cole will not be going to Arsenal or to Manchester United, despite being linked with both of these clubs. Joe Cole has a few options, and has not made up his mind, and will do so when he returns from South Africa. It is still possible that he could decide to stay at Chelsea but that is only a small chance."

The source refused to rule out Spurs and Man City and while Roberto Mancini's club can offer big bucks, Harry Redknapp has the lure of Champions League football for Cole, and that could be the deciding factor.

Redknapp has made it clear that he isn't looking to make a large number of signings, but instead wants one or two outstanding new players to reinforce Spurs' chances of making past the qualifying stage of the Champions League. And it was Redknapp that gave Cole his debut in the Premier League when they were both at West Ham United.

Cole would be happy to stay at Chelsea, but the club has thus far shown no willingness to improve the contract offer which is still on the table.

With Cole available on a free, his advisors argue that his value in the open transfer market could be £18 million to £20 million, a huge saving for any prospective new club, which would justify an inflated wage packet.

Chelsea Confident Of Benayoun Agreement With Liverpool

Chelsea are confident of closing a deal for Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun in the coming days.

The Daily Mail says Chelsea expect to tie up one deal with Liverpool before the World Cup, with Benayoun set to move to Stamford Bridge for £6m.

Carlo Ancelotti sees the Israel midfielder as an ideal replacement for Joe Cole, who has priced himself out of a new contract at Chelsea by demanding £120,000 a week.

Benayoun, who has three years left on the £75,000-a-week deal he signed last summer, is a cheaper option and is expected to return from holiday in Israel early next week to discuss personal terms.

Chelsea Will Raid Cash-Strapped Liverpool For £70 Million Fernando Torres

Chelsea look set to compound Liverpool’s misery by launching an audacious attempt to land their stellar striker Fernando Torres for a jaw-dropping £70 million.

According to the Daily Mail, the Blues are planning to shatter the British transfer record to bring the Spain international to Stamford Bridge this summer.

Manchester City and Barcelona are also rumoured to be attempting to capitalise on the current turmoil at Anfield.

Manager of six years, Rafael Benitez, left the club by mutual consent last Thursday and was instrumental in tempting the 26-year-old goal-getter to Anfield in the first place for £21 million in July 2007.

No doubt this particular transfer saga will rumble on all summer, but Chelsea are reportedly confident that the Reds will be happy to cash-in on the player given the fact they are £350m in the red.

The main obstacle facing Chelsea is the fact that Torres is hot property across Europe and can cherry-pick his eventual destination if he chooses to leave Merseyside.

Chelsea’s crucial advantage over Premier League rivals Manchester City though in any such Torres transfer, is the fact that they can offer Champions League football next season. However, Torres himself would perhaps prefer a return to Spain and Barcelona.

Torres himself has remained tight-lipped about his future, stating only that he will decide his future after the World Cup.

Yet unless Liverpool quickly secure new ownership and a transfer kitty that allows them to compete with the Premier League’s leading lights, many believe Torres and other stars such as Steven Gerrard could jump ship this summer.

Queiroz Has No Drogba Cares

Portugal boss Carlos Queiroz insists Didier Drogba's injury will not affect his game plan against Ivory Coast.

The star striker will almost certainly miss the Group G clash with Queiroz's side in 10 days' time after fracturing his right elbow against Japan on Friday.

His absence will be a big blow to the Ivorians but former Manchester United assistant manager Queiroz insists he is not bothered about his opponents.

Instead he is focused on his own squad and wants them to impose their style of play on the game.

Queiroz said: "We are not going to change anything in our plans.

"When great players are out of a World Cup - as also happened with my great friend Rio Ferdinand - it's always a shame, a blow for the spectacle.

"But the strategy is to concentrate on our own. The longer we impose our game on the adversary, the more problems you create.

"Our players know what our style is. Our main weapon is our style of play, our way of football. We have to play like Portuguese teams.

"In that sense, I do not care if Drogba plays or not."

Chelsea's John Mikel Obi Ruled Out

Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi has been ruled out of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa with a knee injury.

Mikel joins fellow Chelsea stars Michael Essien and Michael Ballack in missing out through injury, while Didier Drogba is a major doubt.

The 23-year-old underwent minor knee surgery in May and feels he has not recovered sufficiently.

"We have dropped Mikel from the squad after he said he did not want to risk his career," said a Nigeria spokesman.

Nigeria will replace Obi Mikel with the uncapped Brown Ideye, a striker from French club Sochaux.

Mikel has been capped 30 times for his country and was the last player to join up with the rest of the squad at their training camp in Essex.

In South Africa, Mikel cut short his workout with the team on two consecutive days. He also missed the team's two build-up games against Saudi Arabia and Colombia.

On Friday he trained with the rest of the squad for the first time since they arrived at their World Cup base in Durban, but later announced he was not fit enough to play in South Africa.

Nigeria have been drawn in Group B alongside two-time world champions Argentina, former European Championship winners Greece and 2002 World Cup semi-finalists South Korea.

They play a final friendly against North Korea in Johannesburg on Sunday before starting their World Cup campaign against Argentina on 12 June.

Summary Of A Season: Alex

Another of Chelsea's form players in the second half of the campaign, Alex sat out the first three months of the season with a hernia injury.

When he returned to fitness he found regular central defensive pairing Ricardo Carvalho and John Terry in excellent form, and had to be patient , appearing just six times before the turn of the year, and only another five before March.

It was then that Carvalho began to struggle with his own fitness, and he would not play again after damaging ankle ligaments against Portsmouth in late March.

By then Alex had already turned in a number of eye-catching displays at centre-half, notably against Stoke in the FA Cup, where he made two last-ditch tackles and earned a nomination for the quarter-final player of the round award.

Terry himself admitted the Brazilian was giving manager Carlo Ancelotti a selection headache, which may well have eased slightly when Carvalho was ruled out, allowing the burly defender the run of games his form merited.

Excluded from Brazil squads for around 18 months, Alex was again left out as coach Dunga announced his World Cup squad. It was a decision that mystified many around Stamford Bridge.

In Alex's 25 appearances, Chelsea conceded only 14 times, the only one that could directly be attributed to the 27-year-old being against Burnley, where, off balance, he was uncharacteristically outmuscled by Steven Fletcher.

It was an isolated slip in an otherwise brilliant second half to the season, and having surpassed the 100-match mark against Bolton in April, Alex will be looking to kick on after the summer and make that place alongside the captain his own.

Premier League Waits On Chelsea And Man City

The Premier League transfer market is in limbo waiting for big-hitters like Chelsea and Manchester City to begin their spending sprees, reckons Sunderland chief executive Steve Walton.

And until some of the big money starts moving around, Walton believes cash-strapped clubs are likely to keep their cheque books firmly closed.

Few deals have gone through so far this summer, and City boss Roberto Mancini indicated earlier this week that his mega-rich owners may not spend as lavishly as before when he insisted the club would not be held to ransom on fees.

Now Walton thinks supporters who are hungry for transfer news may be in for a long wait.

He said: "There is not a lot going on in the transfer market, and my personal view is that it will remain quite quiet.

"I think that Manchester City and Chelsea will do quite a lot, and what we really need for a good transfer market this summer is for some big money to be injected into the system to oil the wheels.

"Clubs are not awash with cash. It is difficult to borrow money in the wider world, and almost impossible in football.

"You are not going to your friendly bank asking for a few million pounds to buy a footballer now because it is just not happening.

"There is not much money in the system, and I don't believe there will be a huge amount of activity. We have already heard Sir Alex Ferguson say that he may bring in just one more player."

Man City are set to pay £10.5m for Hamburg and Germany defender Jerome Boateng after he revealed he had agreed a move to Eastlands.

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has only added free transfer Cristian Riveros to his squad so far, and the Paraguay World Cup midfielder is expected to be joined by Belgium U21 keeper Simon Mignolet soon.

The Black Cats have shopped abroad, a policy that could spell problems for the rest of the Premier League, Walton warns.

"My fear is that the big money will go overseas," he said. "You really need some big domestic transfers to go through to help get things moving.

"When Chelsea first started spending big a few years ago they were largely buying in the UK on the likes of Joe Cole, Frank Lampard and Shaun Wright-Phillips.

"That funded a lot of Premier League transfer activity because the money filtered down, but that wouldn't happen this summer if the money goes abroad."

Sunderland's list of targets is considerably shorter than the number of players they are trying to get out of the club right now, and Walton added: "We don't feel we need to do a massive amount.

"I don't think we will see a huge amount of activity like we did last year, when Steve set about strengthening the whole spine of the team.

"Steve is happy he has got a good nucleus now and he is looking at two or three positions."

Chelsea Withdraw Contract Offer For Joe Cole

Chelsea have given up hope of keeping Joe Cole and have withdrawn their contract offer for the England star.

Talks had been scheduled between Cole and the Premier League champions once the season was over, but none have taken place.

Instead there is no longer a deal on the table for the playmaker, who made it clear he was never going to sign the terms being offered.

Now Cole, 28, will use the World Cup in South Africa as the perfect stage to show his talents to the huge lists of clubs queuing up to offer him a free-transfer package.

Cole is not making huge demands and Starsport understands his reluctance to commit to Chelsea had nothing to do with the financial deal on offer.

Instead, he was upset they were only offering a one-year rolling contract and he also feared he would not be a regular under boss Carlo Ancelotti.

Having spent almost a year on the sidelines with a knee injury, the midfielder just wants to play football and felt he was not getting enough opportunities, with Nicolas Anelka often used out wide on the left ahead of him.

There is no shortage of willing takers, with interest both from the Premier League and abroad.

Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham have all made contact, while Real Madrid are also contenders, under Cole’s old boss Jose Mourinho.

A decent World Cup will put Cole in a position to negotiate terms of around £75,000-a-week.

Manchester United And Chelsea Join Arsenal In Race To Sign Barcelona Centre-Back Dmytro Chygrynskiy

Arsenal face competition from Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City to land Barcelona centre back Dmytro Chygrynskiy, according to Catalunya Radio.

The giant Ukrainian is understood to have been made available for transfer after struggling to adapt to La Liga after joining from Shakhtar Donetsk last summer for £22 million. President Joan Laporta is reported to have offered the 23-year-old to Arsenal as a makeweight in the deal to sign Cesc Fabregas.

This bid has led to the Premier League trio and Bayern Munich joining the battle to secure his signature. An impasse has been reached with Barcelona about their valuation, however, as none of the sides are prepared to offer more than £12m.

Michael Essien Signs Two-Year Contract Extension To Remain At Chelsea Until 2015

Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has signed a new two-year contract extension with the club that ties the Ghana captain to Stamford Bridge until 2015.

The 27-year-old was in scintillating form to start last season with the eventual Premier League and FA Cup champions, but missed almost the entire second half of the campaign through injury. That injury will also keep him out of this summer's World Cup, but that disappointment has at least given the former Olympique Lyonnais man time to sort out his club future.

"I am delighted because the club has shown a very big confidence and interest in me," Essien told the club's official website.

"I am looking forward to coming back and enjoying my football and winning more trophies with the club. That is why I am here. I think it is one of the most important contracts in my career."

The Ghanian has appeared 185 times for the Blues, scoring 22 goals. but his 2009-10 season was cut-short in December when he suffered a hamstring injury in December and then a knee injury while representing his country at the African Cup of Nations in January.

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti insists that he has no long-term fears about Essien's recent injury problems, and the box-to-box midfielder is still an integral part of the west London club’s set-up.

The Italian said, "I am very happy that Michael has agreed to extend his time with us, as it means he will continue to be a very important player for Chelsea long into the future."

Essien first joined the reigning Premier League champions from Lyon in 2005 for £26 million, becoming, at the time, Chelsea’s most expensive player ever.

Ashley Cole: I Feel Stronger Than I Did Before My Ankle Injury

England defender Ashley Cole insists that the broken ankle he suffered in a clash with Everton loanee Landon Donovan has completely healed and he is ready for the World Cup.

The Chelsea left-back was kept out for two months and believes that the time off and the extensive rehabilitation he went through have helped him to return stronger than he was before his injury.

Cole returned and was a key contributor for the Premier League and FA Cup winning Chelsea side.

With England’s World Cup opener against Donovan’s USA team eight days away, Cole is healthy and ready to help lead the Three Lions go far in South Africa.

“I do feel fitter than before, actually,” Cole told Daily Mail.

“I feel sharper than before I got injured and am happy with the rehab.

“The physios were brilliant with me and I have come back very strong.

“At the time I was devastated because I felt I was playing well, I scored a few goals and I wanted to help the team.”

After the accidental clash with Donovan, Cole was worried that he might miss the World Cup but the Blues defender credits his rehab program with his fast recovery.

“I was getting up at seven in the morning and finishing at six at night. I had an hour’s break for lunch and that was it. Basically all day I was getting my rehab in the gym and it was the same when I came back to the training ground.

“I felt I was letting down the team not being there but in the end it turned out well.

“I was supposed to be out for three months and I made it back in two months so I was happy.”

I Did Everything I Could To Be Fit For Ghana - Chelsea Midfielder Michael Essien

Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has revealed he did everything he could to play for Ghana at the World Cup.

Essien ruptured medial knee ligaments in January's African Nations Cup and was unable to shake off the injury to play in South Africa. Although named in the provisional 30-man squad, he was unable to get fit in time for the tournament.

Speaking to Chelsea's official website, Essien said: "Since my injury in January I had been working hard to come back for Chelsea and Ghana, but it wasn't to be.

"I did everything I could but eventually I succumbed to the injury and had to accept the fact that the body takes its own time to heal and you cannot rush things.

"I had my last assessment over a week ago with the Chelsea and Ghana doctors present.

"It took place at the hotel where all the Ghanaian players were staying and coming out of that meeting was very emotional for me.

"I spoke to Stephen Appiah, the captain, and all the other guys about my inability to join them and you could tell how disappointed they were.

"I have to admit no-one was more disappointed than me but that's life and I have to move on.

"I would like to wish the Black Stars the best of luck in South Africa. They need our support and all Ghanaians should get behind them."

Joe Cole Will Decide Future After The World Cup

Soccernet understands that no decision will be made on Joe Cole's future until the end of the World Cup finals, despite reports that he has already agreed a move to Arsenal.

Cole will officially become a free agent on July 1 when his contract with Chelsea expires and the playmaker, who has been included in England's World Cup squad, has attracted attention from rival clubs.

Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham are all believed to be interested in signing Cole on a free transfer but it is Arsenal who appears to be favourites to recruit the 28-year-old at present.

It was even reported that Cole, who grew up in North London, had agreed a three-year deal with Arsenal and that the transfer would be announced prior to the start of England's World Cup campaign.

But Soccernet understands Cole's main focus at present is the finals in South Africa and that no decision on his club future will be taken until England's campaign has drawn to a close.

If Cole does join Arsenal he will become the fourth player in recent seasons to cross the Arsenal-Chelsea divide. William Gallas and Ashley Cole swapped clubs in 2006 and Arsenal signed Lassana Diarra from Stamford Bridge 12 months later.

Drogba Suffers Arm Fracture

Didier Drogba has fractured a bone in his right arm, during Ivory Coast's friendly against Japan on Friday.

The forward, 32, picked up the injury after a clash with Japanese defender Marcos Tulio Tanaka in the first half of Les Elephants' 2-0 win.

Drogba had flicked the ball over the defender's head before he was caught by a high boot. The striker refused a stretcher but left the field immediately.

Moments earlier he had opened the scoring with a deflected free-kick. Salomon Kalou also played, staying on for the entire 90 minutes.

Drogba is a major doubt for the World Cup, which kicks off in South Africa a week today.

Team spokesman Eric Kacou said that Drogba's fracture was confirmed by doctors after he left the field.

'It is a fracture in his right arm,' Kacou said. 'The doctor hasn't said yet whether he can play in the World Cup.'

'He had a lot of pain,' said Ivory Coast boss Sven-Goran Eriksson. 'Of course I'm worried. He's captain and one of the world's best players. It was unlucky. It wasn't bad or stupid. He (Tanaka) didn't want to hurt anyone. Football is a game of contact.'

Summary Of A Season: Ashley Cole

It was another season of unfaltering consistency for arguably the best left-back in the world, the only negative to his season being the two months he spent sidelined with a broken ankle between February and April.

It was a season of records as he earned a sixth FA Cup winner's medal, no man has as many, and won his second Double, along with Nicolas Anelka the first man to do so with two different clubs.

On a personal level, he scored a record four times in the same season, including the Chelsea Goal of the Season against Sunderland in January, a deft flick after controlling John Terry's long pass expertly and cutting inside his man.

Carlo Ancelotti's tactics certainly helped Cole's natural game, allowing him to get forward as often as possible down the left flank to support attacks, a narrow midfield, particularly in the first half of the season, creating the space needed.

He supplied goals against Stoke and Tottenham, while finding the score sheet in explosive fashion against Burnley, and then Spurs, before twice claiming assists at former club Arsenal in November.

He was as dependable on the back foot as he was offensive on the front, his pace and ability to read the game making it difficult for opposition forwards and wingers, the only blip being an ill-timed challenge inside the penalty area on West Ham's Jack Collison just before Christmas - though a Frank Lampard penalty would later even up the scores.

After fracturing his ankle in a challenge with Everton's Landon Donovan in February, it was thought he could miss the rest of the season, yet dedication and a fast-healing body helped him back before the end of April for the 7-0 win against Stoke ,and he found the net one more time against Wigan on the final day of the league season.

His disappointment will have been being absent for the Champions League games with Inter, yet his recovery will have cheered England fans everywhere ahead of the World Cup, particularly when looking at the possible left-back alternatives.

Ashley's consistency, together with those around him, helped us to 18 league clean sheets during 2009/10, as well as a club record goals tally at the other end, 103 in the league, making it a season to remember for the 29-year-old.

Lampard Gets Le Tissier Backing

Matt Le Tissier has backed Frank Lampard to continue as England's first-choice penalty taker despite his recent misses.

The Chelsea midfielder has a good record from the spot but his miss in the FA Cup final was followed by another in the friendly win over Japan on Sunday.

Former England midfielder Le Tissier was one of the best from 12 yards, converting 48 of the 49 penalties he took during his career.

He said of Lampard: "If he backs himself then you've got to take that on board. Half the battle is if the player wants to be there.

"Obviously if he misses five in a row then you might have to take the decision out of his hands but if he's still confident then let him have them."

And Le Tissier's advice to his countrymen is simply to be positive.

"For me it was a case of getting every negative thought out of my mind," said Le Tissier.

"Coming in visualising the crowd erupting when the ball hit the back of the net was the thing for me and I always looked forward to taking penalties because it was the best chance I was going to get to score a goal in a game."

England's record in shoot-outs is famously woeful but Le Tissier, who won eight caps for England in the 1990s, does not believe that should be a major factor in their fortunes this time.

He said: "It might have an effect because everybody talks about it so much but you just have to try and put that our of your mind.

"At the end of the day, they've got to stand up there and be confident and be arrogant enough to think, 'this is a free shot from 12 yards, surely I'm going to score'."

The confidence surrounding England's chances in South Africa has subsided somewhat with injuries and indifferent form affecting a number of players but Le Tissier is backing Fabio Capello's men to go far.

"I'm pretty confident," he said. "I think we can at least make the semi-finals and from that point on it's anyone's competition."

The 41-year-old, meanwhile, has also tipped Diego Maradona's Argentina and Holland to challenge for the trophy.

He continued. "Brazil and Spain are everyone's favourites but I'd be watching out for Argentina. I know they've struggled in qualification but often you find teams that do struggle a little bit all of a sudden pick up when they get to the World Cup finals and they could be one of those teams. Holland are a pretty good bet, they could be dangerous."

And it is a Dutchman that Le Tissier is predicting will be the star of the show.

He added: "Obviously Lionel Messi had a fabulous season with Barcelona and he'll be one a lot of people will be looking for to be top man at the tournament.

"But I'd go for a little dark horse who didn't play much at the back end of last season but is now fit again and that's Robin van Persie. I think he's a fabulous footballer and if he fires he could be the tournament's top scorer."

Chelsea Close To First Deal Of Summer For Darijo Srna

Chelsea will discover if they have succeeded in their bid to sign Croatia international Darijo Srna from Shakhtar Donetsk in the next few days.

Standard Sport revealed last December that coach Carlo Ancelotti wanted to bring the 28-year-old to Stamford Bridge and negotiations have already begun with the Ukrainian club, who are demanding a £20million fee.

Shakhtar are willing to sell because Srna has only one year left on his contract and the player is understood to be keen to move to the Premier League champions.

It is believed Chelsea are prepared to pay Srna up to £79,000-a-week for his signature and will make room for him in the squad by selling of Juliano Belletti and Paulo Ferreira.

Ancelotti sees Srna as a useful addition because he can not only play at right back, but also at right midfield, where the club has little competition for places.

Talks have been delayed while Srna has been away with the Croatian national team, but he hopes to meet with Shakhtar's president Rinat Akhmetov this week to discuss the situation.

A source close to the player believes that as things stand the chances of him moving to Chelsea is 80-20 in their favour, but Real Madrid and Barcelona are also monitoring the situation.

Chelsea Tracking Victor Mugabe, Brother Of Inter Milan Midfielder McDonald Mariga

Premier League champions Chelsea are tracking Inter Milan star MacDonald Mariga’s brother Victor Mugabe, who plays for Belgian Jupiler Pro League side Germinal Beerschot.

According a report appearing in the Evening Standard, Chelsea were on the trail of the Kenyan midfielder for the whole of last season and they sent scouts to watch him on four occasions.

According to Jean Baptiste, chairman of Belgium children’s fashion dealer JBC who also owns half of Mugabe’s club’s stake, Chelsea’s interest in the player is not strange considering that English clubs have traditionally worked closely with their Belgian counterparts.

"Manchester United, Fulham and Arsenal have working relationships with some clubs in Belgium and from time to time they send scouts to look for talent and we are excited about the possibility of Mugabe playing in England," he said.

Baptiste, who is currently in Kenya for a three-day scouting mission, said the English club have not said anything about their interest in Mugabe, but again stressed this was not strange as they required more time to be satisfied with his ability.

"It may not happen next season because Mugabe needs to play more matches at his current club. Next season will be very crucial for him if he is to land such a lucrative move," he said.

"English clubs respect talent and Mugabe has what it takes, but he needs a lot of matches," he pointed out.

Mugabe confirmed the interest from Chelsea and said he was aware that they had sent scouts to look at him on four occasions.

"It is of course exciting to know that a club like Chelsea is interested in you, but I am not letting it get to my head. My focus is to get more matches and see what happens after that," said Mugabe.

Chelsea Boss Ancelotti In Ibrahimovic Talks In Miami

Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti has met with Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic in Miami to discuss a move to Stamford Bridge, Spanish daily Mundo Deportivo reports.

Ibrahimovic and Ancelotti are staying in the same holiday resort in Miami and whether that it is coincidence or not, Mundo Deportivo claims that they are discussing a possible move to Chelsea.

On paper, Ibrahimovic has enjoyed a good first season in Spain, scoring 20 goals in 41 appearances for Barcelona since his high profile move from Inter Milan last summer. However, his performances have been criticised by the notoriously harsh Spanish media.

With Barcelona having just signed Valencia hitman David Villa, speculation that Ibrahimovic will leave has intensified, with Manchester City also thought to be keen on signing the Swedish striker. However, Chelsea is thought to hold the upper hand, given the lure of Champions League football which City cannot offer.

Stamford Bridge boss Carlo Ancelotti knows that although Chelsea won the Premier League title, the experience of a player like Ibrahimovic could be important in capturing the elusive Champions League.

Real Madrid To Sign Manchester United And Chelsea Target Di Maria

Real Madrid will complete the signing of Benfica winger Angel Di Maria before the World Cup, disappointing both Manchester United and Chelsea, according to Spanish daily AS.

Reports in recent months claimed Chelsea had sent Frank Arnesen on scouting trips to watch Di Maria, whilst Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson viewed him as a possible long-term replacement for Ryan Giggs. However, new Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has reportedly prioritized a move for Di Maria and wants to tie up a deal before the World Cup.

The Argentinian just completed his third season at Benfica and enjoyed another excellent term, scoring nine goals and impressing during the Portugese side's Europa League campaign. He reportedly has a buyout clause of 40 million euros, but AS claims that Di Maria will move to Real Madrid for a fee of 35 million euros.

Di Maria's agent is Jorge Mendes, who has very good relations with Real Madrid and negotiated the world-record deal which took Cristiano Ronaldo to the Bernabeu last summer from Manchester United.

With Franck Ribery having committed his future to Bayern Munich, should Di Maria end up at the Bernabeu, it would leave both Manchester United and Chelsea scratching their heads in the search for additional left-sided options.

Di Maria has eight international caps and is set to star at the World Cup for Diego Maradona's Argentina side.

Juventus & Atletico Madrid Chiefs In Talks Over Chelsea Target Sergio Aguero

Juventus and Atletico Madrid transfer chiefs are holding talks in Turin over the futures of Sergio Aguero and Tiago, according to Tuttosport.

Giuseppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici are discussing the possibility of signing Aguero with Garcia Pitarch, the Atleti sporting director.

Talks centre around the Spanish side's hopes of signing Tiago on a permanent deal. He has convinced coach Quique Sanchez Flores to keep him, and the clubs are set to agree on a transfer fee that will take the midfielder to Spain permanently.

Juventus will use that window to lay down plans for Aguero. It's no secret new manager Luigi Del Neri has asked for reinforcements at the Italian club and the Argentinian, who turns 22 today, is admired by club chief Andrea Agnelli.

However, he has a €50 million (£41m) release clause in his deal - a figure Juve cannot meet. Marotta is now thinking about clearing that obstacle by offering Tiago, Diego and €20m in cash for the hitman.

Aguero has reportedly been a long term target of Premier League champions Chelsea, who are expected to move for a striker in the summer. Manchester City have also been touted as a possible destination for the young striker.

Ghana's Michael Essien 'Cursed By Father' Out Of World Cup 2010

Ghana and Chelsea star Michael Essien can blame the crushing of his World Cup dream on a jinx by his estranged father, according to South African Independent Online.

The Black Stars’ captain was ruled out of this summer's tournament after failing to recover from a knee injury picked up in January.

According to reports in Africa the reason for the midfielder’s long-term injury is that of a bad luck curse, known as a juju, issued by his estranged father.

James Essien, who resides in a mud hut in rural Ghana, is currently very ill from a self-imposed hunger strike after hearing the news of his son's inability to play for his national side in South Africa.

Essien has apparently made many attempts to contact his son, who he hasn’t spoken to in 15 years, without receiving a reply.

Ghana's first match of the World Cup is against Serbia on June 13.

Clean Sheet For Ivanovic

Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic played 90 minutes in Serbia's disappointing 0-0 draw with Poland on Wednesday night.

The defender returned to the side after sitting out the weekend's defeat to New Zealand, and will be pleased to have kept a clean sheet, though the team's poor form continues.

Ivanovic played at right-back, the position he has become accustomed to both at club and international level, but was not partnered on the night by Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic.

The Serbs had the better of the game, but again proved impotent in front of goal, Birmingham City's new signing Nikola Zigic having little sight of goal, while Arsenal's Polish goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski was on hand to prevent Danko Lazovic.

The Serbs have one more game to prepare for the World Cup, against Cameroon on Saturday, before they start their campaign against Ghana on June 13.

Summary Of A Season: Yury Zhirkov

The Russian arrived from CSKA Moscow in the summer with a reputation as a pacy winger capable of beating players that could also fill in at left-back.

Injury to Ashley Cole meant we certainly saw the latter, but the form of others, largely Florent Malouda, meant the 26-year-old's attacking prowess only came to the fore in flashes.

Fitness problems of his own prevented Zhirkov from a competitive Chelsea debut until late September, a troublesome knee meaning all Blues fans had seen of him to that point was an impressive bow against AC Milan in Baltimore, in which he scored the winner from a tucked-in midfield position.

The player himself admitted the two months that followed were a struggle as he adapted to a new country and a new club without the day-to-day involvement that full training allows.

Speaking just before Christmas, by which time he had still only played a handful of matches, Yury announced he had not 'done anything special so far' but chances would come in 2010.

He impressed against Watford and Sunderland, creating goals in each, and figured regularly during a January where we were missing key players at the African Cup of Nations.

Then came Cole's injury in early February, a fractured ankle that would keep him out two months. Such luck then that just two games into his spell at left-back, Zhirkov suffered injury of his own - a knock on the calf against Wolves resulting in him missing our Champions League first leg against Inter.

Back for the second leg, he found himself marginalized by the excellent Maicon and too often sucked inside on the defensive. If that night was a low in the season, then his highlight was undoubtedly against Aston Villa 11 days later.

Given free rein to attack, he galloped forward time and again, twice beating his man inside the area before being brought down for penalties, and then supplying the pinpoint cross for Malouda to volley home the goal of the game.

Cole's return to fitness in late April meant Yury featured less in the run-in, but with a season of adaptation under his belt, and a more comfortable grasp of the language, expect him to be a key player in 2010/11, when he will be hoping to up his goals return to something like the levels he achieved in Russia.

Harry - Cole Deal Already Done

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp believes Joe Cole has already decided to leave Chelsea and found a new club.

The 28-year-old, who has been named in England's 23-man World Cup squad, is out of contract at Stamford Bridge this summer so is available on a free transfer.

The attacking midfielder has been linked with a number of clubs, notably Spurs, Manchester United and Arsenal.

But Redknapp, who gave Cole his senior debut as a 17-year-old at West Ham, reckons not only that Spurs are already out of the running but a deal has already been done.

"It looks to me someone's going to make a great free transfer, if he doesn't stay at Chelsea," he said.

"I genuinely don't know who that is. I don't think it's going to be Tottenham.

"I've got a feeling, I may be wrong, that he's already agreed a deal with someone, and it's not Tottenham.

"I'm not saying if he hadn't agreed a deal with someone and he was available and didn't stay at Chelsea that we wouldn't be interested.

"I'm a big fan of Joe's, but the feedback we've had is that he might well have already done something."

Cole came back from a major knee injury at the start of last season and upon on his return he struggled to hold down a regular starting role for Chelsea.

He did enough to be named in Fabio Capello's provisional World Cup squad, though, and booked a ticket to South Africa after impressing as a half-time substitute in Sunday's warm-up win over Japan - his 54th international appearance and first since September 2008.

Cech Rejects Real Link

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has dismissed reports he could be reunited with his former manager Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid.

Since Mourinho was confirmed as Real's new coach he has been linked with moves to sign several of his former Stamford Bridge charges.

The likes of Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole have been mooted as targets for Mourinho, while Cech has also been put forward as an option for the Portuguese.

However, Cech has moved quickly to dispel any notion that he could leave Chelsea for Real, particularly with Iker Casillas the undisputed No.1 at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"It is common to say 'never say never', and it always happens that, if such a coach is appointed at such a big club, plenty of potential targets appear in the press," Cech told CTK.

"At the moment it is just at the level of big rumours and I don't think it is necessary to comment on them at all.

"Speculation will always be there, but I don't see it (a transfer) as being realistic.

"The goalkeeper's position is the last area Real have to improve and that makes it the end of the story for me."

Cech, who joined Chelsea in 2004, the same year Mourinho was appointed as manager, is hoping the club can win the UEFA Champions League next season following this term's Double triumph.

The Czech Republic ace added: "I am happy there. The only major trophy that is left for Chelsea to win is the Champions League.

"And, in my opinion, at the moment we have a team strong enough to win the competition.

"As for my ambitions, I am satisfied and that is why I don't intend to leave for anywhere."

Galatasaray Close In On £2.5m Move For Miroslav Stoch

Chelsea winger Miroslav Stoch could be set for a move to Turkey after Galatasaray made a £2.5 million bid for him, according to a report from The Daily Mirror.

The winger has returned to Stamford Bridge after a season on loan with Twente Enschede, where he helped Steve McClaren's side to the Dutch title.

The left-sided starlet will also be a part of Slovakia's squad at this summer's World Cup finals.

The Mirror reports that the player will discuss personal terms with Gala once this summer's tournament in South Africa is over.

Joe Cole 'To Join Arsenal On Free Transfer After Signing Three-Year Deal'

Joe Cole could be on the verge of making a shock move from Chelsea to Arsenal on a free transfer after rumours emerged today he has signed a three-year contract at the Emirates Stadium.

According to reports, Cole's representatives met up with Arsenal officials yesterday to thrash out the terms of the deal while the midfield playmaker was being called up to England's World Cup squad by Fabio Capello.

Barring any complications in the process the transfer is expected to be finalised next week, with a view to announcing the move before the tournament in South Africa begins in ten days' time.

The rumours follow hot on the heels of comments by Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp earlier today, when he admitted he believes Cole has agreed in principle to a move to another Premier League.

'It looks to me that someone's going to make a great free transfer,' Redknapp is quoted as saying.

'I genuinely don't know who that is, but I don't think it's going to be Tottenham.

'I've got a feeling - and I may be wrong - that he's already agreed a deal with someone.

'I'm a big fan of Joe's, and I would be interested if he didn't stay at Chelsea, but the feedback we've had is that he might well have already done something.'

If true, the news would be a huge boost for Arsenal fans still reeling from the revelation that captain Cesc Fabregas could be leaving the club to join boyhood team Barcelona this summer.

Cole's signing also fits in with the Arsene Wenger transfer philosophy in that the England international would represent a shrewd bit of business.

The 28-year-old is out of contract at Chelsea and would be available on a free transfer.

And while his wage demands may have presented a stumbling block - given the Blues are reluctant to meet his expectations - Wenger is said to be more willing to offer larger contracts to players in a bid to build a title-winning team.

Former West Ham United star Cole is also believed to be keen to stay in London, as partner Carly Zucker has recently given birth to a son and is reluctant to relocate.

Chelsea's Anelka Crashes On Mountain Bike Ride

Nicolas Anelka survived a scare when he crashed during a mountain bike ride at France's World Cup training camp on the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion on Tuesday.

Anelka, who has started up front in the two warm-up games France have played so far, escaped unhurt after losing his balance on a slippery road and falling at the end of a 50-minute ride on the spectacular volcanic island.

In an effort to make his team bond, France coach Raymond Domenech has organised all sorts of group activities since the start of their preparations, including a hike up a glacier in the French Alps and a dune buggy race.

The coach's latest idea was a bike ride on Reunion, where the players landed on Tuesday from Tunisia.

Under ominous skies and a slight drizzle, the players rode up a steep, narrow road and down again, with Franck Ribery the fastest and Djibril Cisse the slowest.

Some 100 fans stood in the rain at the ride's starting point and cheered on the players, who waved and smiled but did not stop to sign autographs or talk to the media.

All the players participated except number two goalkeeper Steve Mandanda, who stayed at the hotel but had "nothing serious", according to a team spokesman.

After the ride, the team returned to their luxury hotel, overlooking a beach just outside St Pierre, the island's second largest city.

A more traditional training session is scheduled for Wednesday on Reunion, where France will play China on Friday in their last match before the June 11-July 11 finals in South Africa.

The former world and European champions have switched to a new 4-3-3 formation and Domenech has left forward Thierry Henry out of his starting line-up for their first two warm-up games, a 2-1 win over Costa Rica and a 1-1 draw in Tunisia.

France, whose popularity has reached a depressing low after their Euro 2008 flop and the uninspired performances that have followed, will face hosts South Africa, Mexico and Uruguay in Group A.

Uli Hoeness Advises Michael Ballack To Retire From International Football

Experienced midfielder Michael Ballack missed out on Germany's World Cup squad due to a serious ankle injury and Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness has now advised the Chelsea star to consider retiring from international football.

"As a friend, I would recommend Michael to concentrate solely on his club in the future. This could be a good moment for him to retire from international football," said Hoeness to Bild.

"I don't think it would be clever to set the European Championships in 2012 as a goal. Even if it is bitter, you have got to be able to realize when the time has come to say enough is enough."

The 33-year-old Ballack made his debut for the Nationalelf in April 1999 against Scotland and has since racked up almost 100 international appearances for Germany.

Branislav Ivanovic: Every Game At World Cup 2010 Is A 'Final' For Serbia

Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic has indicated that Serbia do not want to let themselves or their country down at the World Cup this summer, and will be treating every game like it was the final.

The Serbs are in a tough group with Germany, Australian and Ghana, but topped a qualifying group that included France as they sealed a place at the finals.

Many have tipped them as a potential surprise package, and Ivanovic maintains that they will be not lacking when it comes to a positive attitude.

"We qualified in first position ahead of France, which was very good for us," the versatile stopper told his club's official website.

"We did a lot of good things and we have to continue to play like we did in the qualifiers.

"But of course, the World Cup is completely different to the qualifiers. If you make a mistake, it is very difficult.

"Every game is like a final in the World Cup and we have to remember this when we play."

This is Serbia's first World Cup as a nation in their own right, and Ivanovic is well aware of the special significance of the campaign for players and fans.

"It is our first one as Serbia, and my first one. It is a pleasure and it makes me proud to play in a World Cup, as it is for any player," he said.

"It is a special thing to play for your country and to represent them in a World Cup is the dream of every player. Every one of us is happy with this."

Summary Of A Season: Daniel Sturridge

After his contract at Manchester City expired, the 20-year-old forward chose Chelsea and the Champions League as the place to develop his talents further.

We already knew what he could do having seen him score against us in the FA Youth Cup two seasons ago, and it was in the senior version of the competition that he really began to make his mark at Stamford Bridge, netting four times in three games against Watford, Preston North End and Cardiff City after the turn of the year.

Signed as one for the future, Daniel’s ambition shone through immediately and he scored on his Chelsea debut in a friendly against Seattle, turning sharply and slotting home. He was rewarded with a call-up to England Under-21s in August, making his debut against Holland.

When the real business got going though he had to be patient, waiting until October for a first Chelsea start, and then missing two big chances to get off the mark against Bolton in the Carling Cup.

Confidence remained high though, and his introduction against Fulham just after Christmas instigated a vital comeback. Then in the absence of Didier Drogba, January saw him begin to find the net as Carlo Ancelotti predicted he would, with the three Championship sides dispatched on the way to the last eight of the Cup.

A first Premier League goal arrived in April when Stoke were put to the sword, and a winners' medal after appearing 13 times will have spurred him on for more success next season. The manager has already discussed giving youth a chance, so expect Sturridge to feature more regularly.

Jose Mourinho Keen On A Chelsea Spree

Jose Mourinho was unveiled as Real Madrid boss on Monday – and refused to rule out a raid on Chelsea for Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard.

‘The Special One’ quit Inter Milan to sign a four-year contract at the Bernabeu and wants to make at least three new signings.

He has always wanted to be reunited with Lampard since their days together at Chelsea and now has the spending power to make a serious bid.

Cole’s future at Stamford Bridge is also in doubt after wife Cheryl filed for divorce. He is another player Mourinho admires.

The new Real boss did his best to play down talk of a swoop yesterday but could not resist throwing the names of both men into the mix.

Mourinho said: “It’s normal people ask about players such as Ashley Cole or Frank Lampard. They are former players of mine and I always have good relations with them.

“But I don’t like to talk about players because their prices will go up if I do! We need three or four players to give us flexibility in the way we might play, but I predict a quiet summer.

“We need small adjustments. We have clear profiles of the type of players we need and these are more important than names.”

Mourinho claims he wants to win everything with Real, and insists his first job will be to tame former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Portugal winger was Madrid’s best player last season, but Mourinho warned him he will have to get to grips with a new team ethic from now on.

Mourinho said: “I understand that Ronaldo is an important player for Real and for the world of football, but my players must understand that the most important thing is the club.

“Cristiano likes to win, so if he likes to win it is not difficult to persuade him the most important thing is not the coach or the players but the club.

“If we all work as a group, we will get results. I like to give myself a challenge and this is a big one. I have a lot of confidence in myself and my ability as a coach.

“I want this group to have an identity, to win everything.”

Mourinho won back-to-back titles and the Champions League with Inter, who got nearly £7m compensation from Real for him.

He added: “I don’t change my level of ambition or motivation. I gave everything to every club where I have been. I will do the same here. I don’t feel any kind of different pressure.

“I am a coach that improves day by day. I arrive with everything a coach can win at club football.”

“I don’t know if I was born to coach Real Madrid, but I was born to be a football coach. I am Jose Mourinho and I don’t change.

“I arrive with all my qualities and defects.

“My attraction to Real is due to its history, its frustrations in recent years and its expectations to win.

“It’s a unique club and I believe that not to coach Real leaves a void in a coach’s career.

“Luckily, I’ve had a beautiful career and it makes me proud to have come here.”

Ashley Cole: England Are Good Enough To Win The World Cup

Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole believes that England are capable of winning the World Cup this summer in South Africa.

The 29-year-old and the rest of the Three Lions final World Cup squad will fly to Johannesburg on Tuesday and Cole is adamant that the team’s sole ambition in South Africa is to win the tournament and be crowned world champions for the second time.

"I think we can win it and that's what we're going there to do,” Cole told The Mirror.

"I'm not going to say we ARE going to win the World Cup but I am willing to say we're good enough to win it.

"If you look at players like Stevie G, Lamps, Rio and Rooney, we have some great players in that team.

"And so, if we all play well on the day and have a bit of luck, you never know."

Despite shaky victories in warm-up matches against Mexico and Japan, England is confident that they will be playing their best when they open their World Cup against the United States in Rustenburg on June 12.

In addition to USA, England are matched with Slovenia and Algeria in Group C, leaving the Three Lions as the heavy favourites to win the group.

With a possible quarter-final match-up against France, who struggled to a 1-1 draw against Tunisia on Sunday, Cole acknowledged that England gained a favourable draw, avoiding some of the top teams in the early stages.

"When the draw was made, I think there were a few teams we'd have liked to have missed - and we managed to miss them.

"What's important is that we're not over-confident and I don't think we are going to be going into the competition.

"But we feel that if we play as well as we can, to our capabilities, I don't think we'll have a problem at all."

The Chelsea star has been a mainstay for England at the last two World Cups and could break Bobby Moore and Terry Butcher’s record for finals appearances for a Three Lions defender if he appears in five games in South Africa.

Terry: Defensive Improvement Needed

John Terry believes tightening up a suspect defence is the key to England's World Cup hopes.

England have conceded set-piece goals to both Mexico and Japan during recent warm-up victories ahead of the tournament in South Africa.

Coach Fabio Capello has rotated his defenders during the two games with Terry, skipper Rio Ferdinand, Jamie Carragher, Ledley King, Ashley Cole, Leighton Baines and Glen Johnson all seeing game time.

That has led to a lack of stability which former captain Terry believes will be vital if England are to succeed in South Africa.

"The manager had stressed in the week that with the pace we have, the quality we have going forward, we're always going to create chances and score goals," said the Chelsea captain.

"It's up to us to keep it tight at the back. The goal we conceded against Mexico, and a couple of set-plays, are things we'll have to work on.

"But if we can keep it tight at the back, then we've got enough quality going forward which means we can always get a goal."

Terry and Ferdinand are set to start the tournament as Capello's first-choice central defensive partnership, with Cole and Johnson operating as attacking full-backs.

"It's been a while since we've played together as a back four," added Terry.

"Obviously I know Ashley and also Johnson from his Chelsea days, but myself and Rio have got a good understanding so when we slot in alongside each other, we know each other's game well enough."

Fabio Capello To Persist With Steven Gerrard And Frank Lampard Pairing

Fabio Capello is well aware the trouble past England managers have had trying to get Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard playing in tandem – but it will not stop him starting them in the centre of midfield for the World Cup opener against the USA.

The conundrum of how to get the best from England’s finest two attacking midfielders proved beyond Sven-Goran Eriksson and Steve McClaren.

Capello discovered the answer, shifting the Liverpool captain to a role on the left which allowed him to drift in.

Yet he looks set to turn the clock back because of the ankle injury to Gareth Barry, a certain starter in the centre of midfield if fit.

‘I know the history,’ said Capello. ‘This is a big question for you always? Can’t play together? Probably both were too young. That was a joke. I hope that they can play together.’

Capello was impressed when the pair played together in the second half of Sunday’s 2-1 friendly win against Japan and the Italian added: ‘Good players can move positions.

'Frank and Steve are used to going forward because they have a holding player alongside them. If they play together, one will have to stay.’

Captain Rio Ferdinand also believes the pair can play alongside each other.

He said: ‘They both did it against Japan. It worked well and we looked very dangerous.’

Capello will receive the latest medical bulletin on Barry this morning.

He expects to be told the Manchester City man will be fit to train immediately after the USA game, meaning he will make his 23-man squad.

Deco Heading Out On A High

Deco is hoping his last World Cup will be one to remember for his adopted nation of Portugal, even if it means defeating his country of birth on the way.

The 32-year-old was born and bred in Brazil before switching to Portugal and Benfica in 1997, eventually taking up citizenship after impressing at Porto.

The man who picked him for Portugal, Luiz Felipe Scolari, was the same man who had ignored him while Brazil coach, and has since admitted his regret at never picking the diminutive playmaker.

Deco scored on his Portuguese debut in a friendly against the Brazilians, and now prepares to face them in a competitive environment for the first time, having been drawn together in Group G alongside Ivory Coast and North Korea.

'It is not hard to play against Brazil, but it is different,' the midfielder told the Official Chelsea Website. 'Of course they are my home country and it is special. This is the first time I have played them in the World Cup, but I have played before in friendlies.

'Most of my family are pushing for me, they are in Brazil, they live in Brazil, but they are pushing for me. But of course Brazil will be favourites against us.

'A country that has won the World Cup five times will always be the favourite.'

But what of his own side's chances in South Africa?

'We have a strong team with great players,' he explained, before commenting on the importance of one Cristiano Ronaldo to the side's chances. 'We have a player who is one of the best in the world, if not the very best. In relation to World Cup 2006 this team has more quality.'

Then, Portugal finished fourth after semi-final defeat to France, but is he sure this tournament will be his final international involvement, with qualifying for Euro 2012 only just around the corner?

'Yes it is my last tournament, definitely,' he smiled. 'It is because I need to have more time for my family. For me it will be the last World Cup and I hope to be remembered positively.

'I feel a certain nostalgia, I spent great years so far, made great friends, I was really well received. The [international] selection was where I felt at home, that encouraged me a lot. [After] almost eight years, I am very happy.'

Rooney Key To Manchester United's Bid For Joe Cole

Today's Manchester Evening News speculates that not only is Manchester United chasing Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole, but that a World Cup link up with Wayne Rooney could be critical in securing a move to Old Trafford.

Cole is out of contract at Chelsea and has yet to agree a new deal, with the Stamford Bridge club reluctant to meet his wage demands. The 28-year-old has also found it difficult to hold down a regular first-team place in Carlo Ancelotti's side.

Cole is set to become a free agent and although it appears that Harry Redknapp is the favourite to sign the midfielder for Tottenham, the Manchester Evening News claims that Sir Alex Ferguson is "desperate" to bring him to Manchester United.

Apparently, Ferguson is particularly keen on utilizing Cole's versatility. He is able to play in central midfield, out wide, or just off a striker as he did yesterday with Wayne Rooney during England's 2-1 friendly win over Japan.

The Manchester Evening News speculates that should Cole and Manchester United striker Rooney form a good understanding during the World Cup, it will significantly boost the chances of Cole's arrival at Old Trafford.

The local newspaper also claims that Ferguson's unrivaled track record of winning trophies at Manchester United will be an advantage to attract Cole ahead of the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham.

Arsenal & Tottenham Hotspur Now Lead Race To Sign Chelsea Forward Joe Cole

Joe Cole is now wanted by Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur when his Chelsea contract expires in a few days' time, with interest from Manchester United having cooled, according to a report from The Daily Mail.

The playmaker, expected to be named in Fabio Capello's final 23-man party for the World Cup later on Tuesday, has been linked with a clutch of England's top clubs this summer.

Chelsea are currently reportedly pursuing Liverpool's Yossi Benayoun, a player whose arrival would cast serious doubts over Cole's future at Stamford Bridge.

With no further overtures from the Blues regarding a new deal, it now appears that a move across London is on the cards for Cole, with the north of the capital looking his likely destination.

Chelsea Striker Franco Di Santo A Cut-Price Target For Bolton Wanderers

Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle is weighing up a bargain move for Chelsea outcast Franco Di Santo, according to reports.

The giant Argentinean striker spent last season on loan at Blackburn Rovers and is understood to be surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge. Despite only scoring one Premier League goal for their Lancashire rivals, Bolton are set to compete with Dutch champions FC Twente to secure his signature, say The People.

The former youth international has struggled to feature for Chelsea since joining from Chilean outfit Audax Italiano two years ago, making just eight scoreless league appearances.

With Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka ahead of him in the pecking order, along with youngsters Fabio Borini and Daniel Sturridge, first team chances would be severely limited again next season.

My Favourite Games: Petr Cech

Today we launch a new feature for the summer, where Chelsea players tell us about their favourite matches played in, and watched.

First up is number one, Petr Cech, who with the absence of World Cup action this summer will have the opportunity to take in plenty more games on TV.

The goalkeeper has hundreds to pick from for his favourite game ever played but the most enjoyable match he ever watched may have slipped many fans' minds, despite its nine goals and two red cards.

It was a meeting in 2001 between a team from the banks of the Mersey and a lesser-known Spanish side.

When Liverpool reached the Uefa Cup Final nine years ago, not many expected their opponents Alaves to compete against a side with such impressive credentials in Europe.

But the game that unfolded is one of the most memorable clashes in recent times and it took Liverpool until stoppage time, and a fifth goal, to seal victory after Alaves came back from being 2-0, 3-1 and 4-3 down to force extra-time.

That's when experience shone through for the eventual winners after Alaves had two men sent off and Liverpool's nerves held to net the winner, albeit indirectly, when Delfi Geli deflected a Gary McAllister corner into his own net.

'It is hard to choose my favourite game to watch because there were a few games I loved watching,' explained the shot-stopper, 'but one of them is definitely the Uefa Cup Final when Liverpool beat Alaves in 2001, it finished 5-4. It was such a great game.
'It must have been a great game to play in as well because the game was changing every minute, nine goals in a final is great.

'Nobody ever expected Alaves to be in the final of the Uefa Cup but they came so close and they really fought for the glory but it was one of those games. They scored four goals but it was not enough.'

Cech's favourite game to play in is another match which unfolded on the European stage and is a game that remains vivid in many Chelsea fans' minds.

Reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League is never easy, but in 2005 Chelsea overcame one of the biggest obstacles in club football when we hosted Barcelona at the Bridge.

At the time everyone, neutrals and fans alike, expected a phenomenal game of football but no one could have predicted the entertainment that unfolded.

Chelsea raced into a three-goal lead thanks to strikes from Eidur Gudjohnsen, Frank Lampard and Damien Duff but when Paulo Ferreira handled in the area, Barcelona were given the chance to pull one back.

Ronaldhino converted the spot-kick to make it 3-1 before a magical flick from the edge of the box by the Brazilian made it two for the visitors.

But a John Terry header 14 minutes from time sealed the win for Chelsea as we went on to the quarter-finals of the competition.

'My favourite game I ever played is definitely the Chelsea v Barcelona second leg in 2005, when we won 4-2 and made it through to the quarter-finals of the Champions League,' Cech explains.

'This was simply a great game to watch for everyone and it was a great game to play in and be involved in.

'For neutral fans and fans following the teams it was a brilliant game of football with a lot of chances, a lot of goals and a lot of great football and the atmosphere was outstanding.

'We were 3-0 up then it went to 3-2 before we got the winner, so it was full of emotions.

'The emotions of everyone on the pitch were changing constantly and we all worked so hard for the result. There were some fantastic goals also. It was just a very special game.'

Father Of John Terry Spared Jail For Drug Deal

The father of England and Chelsea defender John Terry was spared jail on Tuesday for supplying cocaine to an undercover reporter after a judge said he was a victim of entrapment.

Edward Terry, the 56-year-old father of the former England captain, admitted supplying 3.5 grammes of the drug to the journalist from the News of the World when he appeared before magistrates last month.

"Employees of a national newspaper decided to mount what was in effect a sting operation against Mr. Terry to ascertain whether he could or would supply class A drugs," prosecutor Paul Scothern told Basildon Crown Court on Tuesday.

The court heard the reporter, Dan Sanderson, had befriended Terry at a wine bar he frequented near his home in Essex, over a six-week period.

On November 5 last year, Sanderson, who was posing as a chauffeur, asked Terry where he could buy cocaine for his boss and his friend.

Terry said he could supply it and agreed a fee of 120 pounds while he also asked for 40 pounds for facilitating the deal. He left the bar and returned about 15 minutes later with the cocaine, the Press Association reported.

"Mr. Terry would not have acted in the way he did and committed this offence but for being enticed by the journalist who befriends Mr. Terry, meets with him on a couple of dozen occasions at the minimum, simply for a tabloid story," Terry's lawyer Neil Saunders said.

Terry was sentenced to a suspended prison term of six months and ordered to do 100 hours of community service.

"It is a very, very clear case of entrapment solely to create a newspaper story," said Judge Christopher Mitchell.

John Terry, 29, was stripped of the England captaincy in February following newspaper reports about his private life.

Arsenal Consider Signing Chelsea Playmaker Joe Cole

Arsenal has inquired about the possibility of signing Chelsea and England midfielder Joe Cole on a free transfer, according to a report from The Daily Mail.

The playmaker has also apparently been courted by Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur who, like current club Chelsea, have been dissuaded from offering Cole a deal by his reported £120,000-a-week wage demands.

But the Gunners are still interested, according to the report, as are Manchester United.

Cole, whose contract at Stamford Bridge expires at the end of June, is expected to hold further talks this week with potential suitors.

Juventus Playmaker Diego Rejects Chelsea Link

Juventus midfielder Diego has distanced himself from recent reports claiming that he is a summer transfer target for Chelsea.

The Brazilian instead has insisted that he remains committed to Juventus, where he wants to help make amends for what was a disappointing season for the Serie-A giants.

“Me move away from Juventus? No, I won’t be going,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“I made a choice a year ago, and I don’t change my ideas just because the season was bad. But the club must think the same, as if I stay without playing it is not a good investment for anyone."

The 25-year-old signed a five-year deal with Juventus last summer after moving from Werder Bremen in a deal worth just over £20 million (€24.5m).

Chelsea Target Shakhtar Donetsk Full-Back Darijo Srna

Chelsea has made Shakhtar Donetsk's Croatian international Darijo Srna a summer transfer target, according to reports.

The 28-year-old, who can play in midfield but is predominantly an attacking full-back, is apparently hoping to complete a switch before pre-season training starts at Stamford Bridge.

He is valued at around £14 million, but is in the final year of his contract with Shakhtar and so could be available for less. Bayern Munich and Tottenham Hotspur are also believed to be in the hunt for the player.

"The deal is not done yet," Srna is reported as saying.

"I must get together with the Shakhtar president as we cannot discuss such matters over the phone."

Chelsea To Sign Benayoun To Replace Cole

Rumours are gathering pace that Chelsea will sign Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun this summer as a replacement for Joe Cole who will be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge.

It has been reported that the Reds have already rejected a £4million bid from Chelsea for the Israel international and are believed to be holding out for £6million.

Talks with Cole's representative over a new deal are believed to have broken down and he has been linked with a summer switch to Tottenham Hotspur.

Cole has struggled to break into Carlo Ancelotti's first-team plans since recovering from serious injury.

Benayoun, who has also been linked with West Ham United and Spurs, said last week while on international duty: "Ancelotti wants me for next season and now everything depends on Liverpool.

"Chelsea will have to pay some £6million but, I believe that, in the end, I'll be moving there."

Thirty-year-old Benayoun has scored 29 goals in 81 starts and 53 substitute appearances for Rafa Benitez's team in the last three seasons.

Yaya Toure Favours Move To Chelsea

Want-away Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure is believed to favour a move to Chelsea this summer, despite interest from Manchester City and Arsenal.

The 27-year-old, who signed a new contract last season, is ready to quit the Camp Nou after failing to hold down a first-team place last season, according to the Daily Mail.

The Ivorian’s brother, Kolo, currently plays for Manchester City, but the robust defensive midfielder still appears to prefer a move to west London after already ruling himself out of any possible swap deal involving Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas going in the opposite direction.

Barca coach Pep Guardiola and outgoing president Joan Laporta insist Toure is a valued member of the playing staff, but the former Monaco player is not prepared to play second fiddle to Sergio Busquets and the attempted signing of Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal could limit his opportunities even further.

Guardiola would like to keep Toure at the Nou Camp, but because of the player’s preference for first-team football, Barcelona could let him leave if the suitable offer surfaces.

Chelsea was reported to have already had a £17 million bid for the player rejected by the Catalan giants.

Manchester City officials reportedly met with Toure at the end of last week and are said to have also discussed a £17m offer.

Paulo Ferreira: Portugal Can Do 'Something Beautiful' At The 2010 World Cup

Chelsea right back Paulo Ferreira has declared that Portugal can go all the way at the upcoming World Cup if they negotiate their so-called 'group of death'.

Carlos Quieroz's side has been drawn against Brazil, the Ivory Coast and North Korea in one of the toughest groups at the tournament. After struggling to qualify for the trip to South Africa, Portugal will receive a boost if they make it to the knockout stages.

Speaking to Chelsea's official website, Ferreira believed his nation can get to at least the semi-final stage at the competition if they concentrate on progressing beyond the opening round.

"People in Portugal are always asking what do you think when we reach the quarter-finals, can we reach the semi-finals?" Ferreira said.

"We have a good team, we have top players and we can do something beautiful in this competition but we have first to think about the group stage because sometimes when you put the expectation too high, the worst can happen.

"We need first to think about the group stage and then anything can happen."

Terry Big On Joe

John Terry is hoping club team-mate Joe Cole will be joining him on the plane to South Africa as Fabio Capello prepares to name his 23-man England squad for the World Cup.

Terry, along with fellow Chelsea men Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard are sure to start England's first game of the finals against USA on June 12, but playmaker Joe is less assured of his place, despite an impressive second-half showing against Japan on Sunday.

Speaking after the game, Terry was full of praise for the 28-year-old, who missed the start of the 2009/10 campaign through injury.

'On a personal level with Joe he's been great for Chelsea towards the end of the season as well so I'm delighted to see him given the chance,' he said.

'He causes defenders all sorts of problems when he floats in between the midfield and the front men and can pick the passes - you've seen with the ball through to Ash as well, so he's made a big impact and we'll have to wait and see.'

Terry suffered a knock on his calf during the game in Austria, England's last friendly before heading out to South Africa.

Other Chelsea men still have plenty of action before the tournament kicks off however, with no fewer than eight friendlies still to come involving Stamford Bridge-based players. You will, of course, be able to keep up with their progress here on our special dedicated World Cup page.

Ballack: Nobody From Chelsea Has Talked To Me About A New Contract

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has rejected reports he is in contract talks with the club and is uncertain where he will be playing next season.

The injured German international midfielder's deal with the Blues runs out this summer and he has yet to be offered fresh terms. Despite being eager to extend his four-year stay, he has accepted Chelsea's decision to leave negotiations on hold.

Speaking to the News of the World, Ballack said: "I am not having talks with Chelsea right now. We spoke in February and March but they put everything on ice with every player and that is still the situation.

"It's not easy but I am just a player so I accept this. I respect the club and I want to carry on at this club.

"But at the moment nobody has talked to me."

Ballack made 32 Premier League appearances last season, proving an important cog as the club won the first league and cup double in its history.

Asian Star: Two More Impress

Two more winners were announced in our Asian Soccer Star search on Monday, completing the Cobham-based competition for another year.

Ahsanuallah Nawazi in the Under 12s and Yusuf Ali in the Under 13s both received an invitation to return to our Surrey training ground later in the summer for a week-long trial in the Chelsea Academy, and are pictured with Brendan Batson MBE and musician Jaz Dhami, who have both supported the campaign.

Also pictured is last year's Under 12 winner A'ameer Kstantin Murphy, who has earned a place in Leyton Orient's Academy as a result of his endeavours at Chelsea.

Ahsanuallah, a striker, likens himself to Wayne Rooney due to his fast play and lack of height. He attributed today's success to a pair of borrowed socks, which will now become his lucky pair.

Yusuf, a midfielder, was delighted to emerge victorious on a day when a number approaching 200 hopefuls took part in the trials.

'I am shocked, I didn't know I was going to win it,' he said. 'There were some other really good players but people were telling me I was going to win.

'I'm a skilful player and good at dribbling and passing,' he said , before admitting to being an Arsenal fan.

Former Arsenal, Cambridge and West Brom defender Brendan Batson was taking in the action in his role as an ambassador for the FA, for whom he is aiming to help raise the numbers of ethnic minorities involved in football, particularly the coaching side. He believes Chelsea's campaign is a superb idea.

'This is a really good initiative, and I know other clubs are looking at doing the same. I think it sends out a great message to the Asian community that football wants to invite them into the game.

'Talent is a limited resource and clubs are scouting worldwide looking for talent, so there should be no reason why if lads start playing young enough that they can't break through. It is a real mystery why we haven't seen in the Asian community what has happened before with black players.

'I came to England as a nine-year-old and had never played it, it just so happened I fell in with a group of lads who played football and was lucky enough to have a half-decent career in the professional game.'

He identified the importance of starting to play young enough as a potential barrier.

'I do a lot of stuff with the FA to find the barriers preventing Asian youth from getting through. There are some issues to address and football has to be mindful of that,' he said.

'One of the big problems is maybe not starting to play young enough, they say you need 10,000 hours to reach the top of any profession, whether it's sport or the arts or anything, so unless you start at a young age, you are falling behind your peers.

'At a club like Chelsea the standard is very high, and these sorts of things can only help. It is good to see so many parents here because at a young age kids need parental support.'

So after a long weekend of footballing tests and matches, the competition draws to a close for another year, but has hopefully once again created a pathway for Asian youngsters to get into the game.

The six lucky winners from the three days will return over the summer, and we will have news when it arrives of how they fare.

Internationals: Clifford Nets Again

Conor Clifford scored the winner for the second time in as many games for Republic of Ireland's Under 19s on Monday.

The Chelsea youth team captain, who also netted the winning goal in the FA Youth Cup at the beginning of the month, ended it with a penalty against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Ukraine this afternoon.

The midfielder, who also skippers his international side, scored the game's only goal against the hosts of this Uefa European Under-19 Championship qualifier on Saturday, and this penalty also proved decisive, though Ireland did not qualify for the finals in France.

That was because England earned a 1-1 draw against Ukraine to claim top spot in the group, thanks to a late equalizer from Tottenham's Dean Parrett. Chelsea man Jacob Mellis was an unused sub.