Robinho: Brazil more important

Robinho claims he was not dropped against Portsmouth but rather asked to be left out ahead of Brazil's international match.

Mark Hughes' decision to leave Robinho on the substitutes' bench for last Sunday's 1-0 win at Fratton Park caused the odd raised eyebrow, with Craig Bellamy preferred down the left flank.

Robinho has been asked to occupy a deeper role this season, with Emmanuel Adebayor and Carlos Tevez playing in front of him.

It has been suggested the 25-year-old Brazilian, often a peripheral figure away from home last season, could be used sparingly when City are not playing at Eastlands.

However, Robinho now claims it was his decision to be left out at Fratton Park so he could instead concentrate on getting fully fit for the upcoming international fixture.

On Saturday the two South American giants go head-to-head in a World Cup qualifier, with Argentina's campaign to date having left them struggling to book a place for South Africa 2010.

"I asked to not play because I had pains in the ankle, especially because Brazil against Argentina is more important," he is quoted as saying in the Daily Express.

"It is always a special match because of the rivalry of the two teams. No one ever wants to lose. Every player likes to play in these matches.

"Of course Carlos (Tevez) has expressed concern because Argentina are in a much more difficult situation than us."

Terry named defender of the year

John Terry has been named defender of the year by UEFA, while Lionel Messi picked up the club footballer-of-the-year award.

Manchester United's Edwin van der Sar took the goalkeeper of the year award.

Barcelona captain Xavi Hernandez won the midfielder of the year award, and his team-mate Messi was also named forward of the year.

UEFA also made a special award to Paolo Maldini to commemorate his retirement after 24 years playing for AC Milan.

Brown relishing the spotlight

Hull boss Phil Brown is excited by the prospect of kicking off the Premier League season in front of an audience of millions - even though he expects his side to be on the back foot for most of the game.

Brown's side face Chelsea in the first game of the 2009/10 season in Saturday's early kick-off and, with the Blues expected to challenge hard for the title under new boss Carlo Ancelotti, it is a match which will draw plenty of attention.

And having survived their first top-flight season by the narrowest of margins, Brown is happy to be in the spotlight once again.

"Since we came back on July 1, everyone's mindset has been on Chelsea and Stamford Bridge," he said.

"It's been brought forward for TV so now it's even bigger and of course it's Carlo Ancelotti's first game so it's very exciting.

"It's the best stage in the world and we're on it again tomorrow morning. Who knows, we might even be top of the league before everyone else kicks off."

If that is to be the case, Brown accepts his side will have to soak up plenty of pressure in a game where they are expected to be on the back foot from kick-off.

"Certain managers are hell-bent on a certain system but we were quite flexible last year and I need that mentality again," he added.

"You're playing Chelsea one week and Bolton the next and, with no disrespect to either, there will be a difference in your tactics.

"At Chelsea we will spend long periods without the ball and I need players who understand that. First and foremost we'll need players who work hard to win the ball back for the team and then keep it."

Brown, who has added Stephen Hunt, Seyi Olofinjana, Jozy Altidore and Kamel Ghilas to his squad in the close season, also revealed he does not intend to rely on the new additions to spur his side on this year.

Instead, the former Derby chief believes it is his job to keep the Tigers' resolve strong.

Brown said: "I was at a Premier League managers' meeting last week and it's nice to look around and see the top guys, see the whites of their eyes and how hungry they are.

"If you're not as hungry as they are, then forget about it. You can bring all the good players in but you have to retain that hunger to compete at the highest level and stay in the Premier League."

Hunt, who completed his switch from Reading on Thursday, is ready for a debut but is anticipating hostility from the Blues fans, who remember him for his part in Petr Cech's skull fracture in 2006.

"That's history," said Hunt.

"I've been there twice since it happened and I'll probably be expecting (a hostile reception) but I don't mind.

"The important thing is to go and get something from the game. There's no point in going and giving a good account of ourselves and losing, it's about picking up points."

Wenger rules out Fabregas sale

Arsene Wenger insists there is "no chance" of Cesc Fabregas being sold to Barcelona - and maintains his young Arsenal team can compete with the best this season.

The Gunners captain has once again been strongly linked with a big-money summer move away from Emirates Stadium - his boyhood club Barcelona the latest side said to be weighing up a formal bid.

However, with Arsenal about to embark on what could well be a defining campaign in the quest for a first trophy since the 2005 FA Cup, Wenger insists all such speculation is wide of the mark.

"Do you really think we sell now our players one day before the championship starts, players who are basic players of the team? There is no chance," declared the Gunners boss, who takes his side to Everton for the opening match of the season tomorrow.

"You cannot stop people from having a lot of creative imagination during their sleepless nights, but that does not mean we will do it."

Wenger himself has resisted the lures of some of Europe's top clubs to remain faithful to Arsenal, whom he has transformed since arriving some 13 seasons ago.

"I believe that in life you are committed to clubs with contracts and in no contract is the colour of your blood described," he said, referring to the pull a return to Spain would have on Fabregas.

"I am more committed than ever to my club, not only this season, but since I have arrived here.

"We are the beginning of a new season now, and it is important that everybody focuses - me, Fabregas everybody else, just on being successful for the club we love, and the best way we can do that is to do well."

Despite the sale of Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor and defender Kolo Toure to Manchester City, Wenger maintains his squad is stronger than this time last year.

So far, Belgian centre-half Thomas Vermaelen is the only new face, although the return to full fitness of Croatia marksman Eduardo leaves Wenger feeling there is plenty of strength in attack.

"We are young and have developed. Why should we not be better in August than we were in March?" said the Arsenal manager, who will be without Walcott tomorrow, but hopes the England forward could be back for the Champions League qualifier against Celtic next week.

"We lost two great players. However, we have bought Vermaelen to replace Kolo and we have Eduardo back, who for me is a great player.

"We have players who develop very well and are young, like [Carlos] Vela, [Nicklas] Bendtner, Walcott, who are all strikers, so I do not feel we are short in these positions."

Wenger insists his squad can deliver come May.

"The ambition is to finish as high as possible. What is as high as possible is to finish first, it is as simple as that," he said.

"The competition is of a high level and many aspire to that, so let's continue to play the game the way we want to play it and I believe we can show that we have made big steps forward."

Wenger maintains Arsenal are no further forward in any potential transfer deals, which have included a look at bringing former captain Patrick Vieira back as well as Bordeaux's £12million-rated Morocco striker Marouane Chamakh and Fulham defender Brede Hangeland, or indeed over a proposed move away for Philippe Senderos to Everton.

"I have all the players in place," said the Arsenal manager.

"If we need to add one or two more, the transfer period is open until August 31.

"Ideally you want not to move any more, but you always have to adjust. If there is a need there, we will do it."

Wenger added: "There are still a lot of players who want to come to Arsenal, because they like the way we play and develop them.

"They feel they get access to top level competition, so I do not think we have a [financial] handicap.

"The market now is a world market, so you can always find good players.

"There are only a few players who have a price which we cannot reach - maybe 10 in the world, but for the rest, we have access to the market."

Pellegrini: Higuain and Robben to stay

Real Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini has dispelled the exit rumours of Gonzalo Higuain and Arjen Robben.

The two players have impressed the Los Blancos boss with their strong performances for the friendlies, with Pellegrini stating that Higuain "was never to be transferred".

Robben's future also seems to be secure at the Bernabeu, as the coach confirms that no player is on the transfer list.

The Dutch winger, who rejected a move to Tottenham Hotspur, has also declared his desire to stay.

With a team swelling with superstars, players are definitely expected to be uneasy.

"We have improved game after game but there is still a lot of work to do to be ready for the beginning of the season," Pellegrini said.

Though the ‘Neo-Galacticos' are still a work in progress, the Chilean is nonethless pleased with their growth.

Pennetta ousts Sharapova in LA

Maria Sharapova was dumped out of the WTA LA Women's Tennis Championships by Flavia Pennetta in the semi-finals on Saturday night.

The 10th-seeded Italian saw off the Russian, who recently returned to action following 10 months on the sidelines with a shoulder injury, 6-2 4-6 6-3 to earn a final date with Samantha Stosur at the Los Angeles event.

Australian doubles specialist Stosur remains on course for a maiden singles title after storming into the final earlier on Saturday.

The 25-year-old, seeded 13, was far too strong for Sorana-Mihaela Cirstea and ran out a convincing 6-3 6-2 winner against the Romanian in just over an hour.

Fergie: Go get me goals Rooney

Sir Alex Ferguson has backed Wayne Rooney to fill the goalscoring void left by former Manchester United ace Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo, who joined Real Madrid's Galactico gravy train earlier this summer for a world record £80 million, lead the line for United in spectacular fashion throughout his stay at Old Trafford.

The Portugal international scored 117 times in 289 appearances for the Red Devils, and was the club's leading marksman for the past three seasons - finding the net on 66 occasions compared to Rooney's 38 during the same period.

Despite the statistical disparity, Ferguson is convinced that Rooney, who will play as an out and out centre-forward during the forthcoming campaign, can step up to the mark.

"I don't think the responsibility of getting more goals will trouble Wayne at all," Ferguson told reporters ahead of Sunday's Community Shield clash with Chelsea at Wembley.

"He's got the mental strength for all that kind of thing. He's proved that time and time again.

"He will be used as a central striker this season. He goes on these bursts of goals.

"Last season I think he hit seven in a row at one point - but if he can do that more consistently over the season he will get to 25 and above.

"But Wayne is a totally different type of player to Ronaldo.

"I don't think you can compare them, they are such different types."

Rooney, 23, has admitted that he is fully aware of the pressure set to placed upon his ever maturing shoulders.

The England international is however adamant that he is aiming to make this season one to remember, especially with the added incentive of a World Cup finals adventure next year.

"For me personally, next season could be the season that transforms me from someone who could be a great player into someone who is a great player," he told The Times newspaper.

"That's what I'm hoping. It's a massive season for the club and for me personally, with the prize at the end of it being the World Cup.

"It's a season which I want to grab with both hands."

With such a pivotal season looming large on the horizon, Rooney, whose robust approach to the beautiful game has periodically landed him in hot water, is also determined to continue giving his all for club and country, even if things don't always go according to plan.

"The older you get, the more you try to set a good example rather than a bad example," he explained.

"On the pitch I'm a competitor and when you're playing in the biggest league in the world, especially when I was starting at such a young age, there are a lot of emotions.

"I've worked on that. Sometimes I get a booking or do something and it's all over the papers or on the news or whatever. I see other players doing ten times worse and nothing is mentioned. But I understand it.

"That's the way I've been brought up. I've been brought up to try to do the best I can in everything I do.

"I don't think I've ever come off the pitch and thought that I hadn't done the best I could have done. Sometimes it goes to plan and sometimes it doesn't, but I've never come off the pitch thinking I didn't give my best and I don't think I ever will."

United's defence of their Barclays Premier League campaign will get underway next Sunday when they entertain Alex McLeish's newly promoted Birmingham City at Old Trafford.

Alonso had sights on new challenge

Xabi Alonso bade Liverpool farewell after his move to Real Madrid, but admitted he had been "determined" to leave for some time.

Alonso was presented as a Real Madrid player last night after signing a five-year contract at the Bernabeu.

The Basque midfielder joins Madrid from Liverpool for around £30million and was unveiled at the stadium.

The 27-year-old Spain international arrived in the capital after a fee was agreed between Liverpool and Real.

Alonso then underwent various tests and met his new team-mates for training.

The midfielder is Madrid's eighth summer signing, taking the Primera Division giants' spending to more than £220million in only two months.

Madrid president Florentino Perez has brought in Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Raul Albiol, Esteban Granero, Alvaro Arbeloa, Alvaro Negredo and Karim Benzema as he attempts to build a team capable of challenging Barcelona's treble winners.

"It's a very happy day for me," said Alonso. "It's an important step in my career to come to a club like Real Madrid.

"I'm very happy to be part of this club and I was very excited for this day to arrive.

"It's the best opportunity for me to develop as a footballer."

The transfer sees Alonso return to Spain after five years away from his homeland.

And, while he enjoyed his time on Merseyside, the former Real Sociedad player admitted he decided before the end of the season the time was right to move on.

"I am very grateful to Liverpool fans, they were very warm during my five years," he continued. "It will be really difficult to match their appreciation.

"I really enjoyed those five years.

"But a few months ago I took that decision as I thought it was the right moment to find a fresh challenge, to look for a new club.

"That's when Real Madrid came along. Luckily a deal has been done and I'm very happy.

"It is a personal challenge I felt is necessary for my football career."

The transfer was one of the most protracted deals of the summer but Alonso claims he always believed he would be at the Bernabeu before the start of the season.

"I didn't have all the cards in my hand but I was confident," he said. "A while back I became determined to leave.

"The end result was what I wished for, here I am and I am very happy."

Reports suggest Alonso's relationship with Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez disintegrated after he professed his desire to leave.

However, Alonso insists he has nothing but respect for his former boss.

"I have repeated over and over again that the relationship was a professional one, of mutual respect, a normal one between coach and player," he said.

"I respect him and thank him for the opportunity he gave me.

"The goodbyes were quite brief, everything happened very quickly and I didn't have time to say goodbye properly.

"I want to return to say goodbye to my team-mates and Rafa.

"As everything was very quick I hardly had time so as soon as I can I will say goodbye as I should have done."

Alonso passes Real medical

Xabi Alonso has passed his medical at Real Madrid and is on the verge of completing his move to the Bernabeu.

The 27-year-old midfielder arrived in the Spanish capital this morning after a fee, believed to be £30million, was agreed between Liverpool and Real Madrid.

Alonso then underwent various tests and is expected to link up with his new team-mates at an afternoon training session.

Madrid chief doctor Carlos Diez told the club's television channel: "We carried out all the usual tests, concentrating on the musculoskeletal system because he has already had an ankle operation and we are satisfied because there are no signs anything is wrong.

"He is fit to join the squad."

Alonso is set to become Madrid's eighth summer signing, taking the Primera Division giants spending to over £220million in just two months.

Madrid president Florentino Perez has brought in Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Raul Albiol, Esteban Granero, Arbeloa, Alvaro Negredo and Karim Benzema as he attempts to build a team capable of challenging Barcelona's treble winners.

It is not yet known whether Alonso will travel with the rest of the Madrid squad to the United States tomorrow.

Real's general director Jorge Valdano is delighted to have signed the Spain international but insists there will be no more new faces at the Bernabeu.

"Xabi was a very important piece," he told Cadena Ser. "I'm delighted that what started six years ago has been completed now.

"He will immediately join the group and tomorrow he will talk to (coach Manuel) Pellegrini to see if he will go with the rest of the team to the USA.

"This is a special season, we had to do unprecedented things.

"With Xabi we have closed the chapter of signings. Now we have to work on the exits of professionals who won't be here next season."

One of the first to leave was Madrid veteran Michel Salgado after Madrid came to an agreement to pay off the final year of his contract.

Madrid still continue to be linked to Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery who they have been after all summer.

But Valdano claims they have given up on the France international for now.

He continued: "With Ribery Bayern took up a very firm position and Madrid decided to wait for another opportunity.

"With the arrival of Arbeloa there are up to six players who can play on the wing and it is for that reason we decided to let Michel Salgado go.

"It was very easy to reach an agreement."

Benitez repeats Alonso stance

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez insists he wants Xabi Alonso to stay at Anfield.

Reports in Spain have indicated Real Madrid are as keen as ever to sign the midfielder.

But Benitez said on Sunday night: "He is our player and we want him to stay."

Benitez saw his side suffer a 3-0 defeat to Espanyol in a pre-season friendly on Sunday night, as former Chelsea forward Ben Sahar scored twice against a strong Liverpool team, captained by Steven Gerrard.

Alonso came off the bench for the closing minutes and it remains unclear whether he will start the season with Liverpool.

Benitez brushed off the setback of losing in a match which was set up to officially open Espanyol's new stadium.

"Nobody likes losing like that, but it's pre-season so it doesn't matter. I'm not worried about it," he said.

Asked if Javier Mascherano, who has been linked with Barcelona, will leave, Benitez said: "No."

Friendlies: Premier League Clubs

A review of Saturday's friendlies involving Premier League sides, action that saw Arsenal win while Chelsea and Manchester City drew.

Andrey Arshavin emerged off the bench to score twice as Arsenal secured a 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid in the Emirates Cup.

Arshavin looked to have won the game when he guided home with five minutes remaining, although their Spanish counterparts replied immediately though German Pacheco.

Just when it looked like being a frustrating day's work for Arsene Wenger's men at the Emirates, Arshavin squeezed the ball home from a virtually impossible angle to snatch the victory.

The competition had earlier got off to a tepid opening as Clydesdale Bank Premier League champions Rangers beat Paris St Germain 1-0 thanks to a scrappy winner from defender Madjid Bougherra.

The four-team tournament began with a minute's applause for Sir Bobby Robson, who died on Friday, aged 76.

The tribute to the former England manager was immaculate with the travelling Scottish fans joining in enthusiastically.

But the football served up by both sides was, for much of the game, typical of a pre-season affair.

The Scottish champions finally broke the deadlock in the 75th minute when a corner from Pedro Mendes was headed into the net by defender Bougherra via the underside of the crossbar and the back of Claude Makelele.

Kolo Toure hobbled out of his Manchester City debut after an hour as Mark Hughes' side played out an entertaining 1-1 draw at Barnsley.

City enjoyed long periods of dominance but substitute Daniel Bogdanovic was allowed room chase down a long ball and fire past Shay Given with seven minutes remaining, before Martin Petrov grabbed an 88th minute equaliser.

Toure was withdrawn following a tangle defending a Barnsley corner, but didn't appear to be in great discomfort as he departed down the tunnel.

Two goals in the final two minutes saw Chelsea fightback to earn a 2-2 draw with Reading at the Madejski Stadium.

A strong Chelsea team, which included the likes of Petr Cech, Ashley Cole, Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka, were behind at the break following Jimmy Kebe's strike and Scott Davies' free-kick.

Chelsea were a constant threat and the Reading defence had done well to keep the Blues at bay, but Salomon Kalou slotted home in the final minute and Reading captain Alex Pearce turned Florent Malouda's cross into his own net.

Celtic warmed up for the second leg of their Champions League qualifier against Dinamo Moscow in Russia on Wednesday in disappointing fashion as they slumped to a 2-1 friendly defeat against Sunderland.

Trailing 1-0 from Wednesday's first leg at Celtic Park, Hoops manager Tony Mowbray used this match to increase the fitness levels of his squad but he may have expected some more encouragement from the display.

Goals either side of the break from Kieran Richardson and Kenwyne Jones gave the visitors a well-deserved lead until Hoops midfielder Marc Crosas put a better spin on proceedings when he pulled a goal back.

An injury-time goal from Arnaud Mendy earned Derby a 2-2 friendly draw with Stoke.

Tony Pulis' Premier League side took the lead through Liam Lawrence's opener seven minutes in, only for Stephen Pearson to level four minutes after the break.

Ricardo Fuller then restored Stoke's lead with 25 minutes to go before Mendy again brought Nigel Clough's side back on even terms.

Marcus Tudgay's late strike helped Sheffield Wednesday recover from a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 with Blackburn at Hillsborough.

The Premier League club raced ahead through goals from Ryan Nelson and Jason Roberts.

Akpo Sodje reduced the Owls' arrears but Blackburn had a chance to restore their two-goal advantage when Richard Wood was penalised for a foul on Steven Nzonzi.

However, El-Hadji Diouf's tame penalty was saved by Lee Grant and the rebound was scrambled clear by the Wednesday defence.

Brian Laws' side equalised through a superb volley from Tudgay.

Nottingham Forest saw off Birmingham 2-1 to complete their pre-season programme in impressive style.

Goals from David McGoldrick and substitute Robert Earnshaw secured the victory in a game they should have won by a greater margin.

City gave themselves a lifeline with 10 minutes remaining when Lee Carsley struck goal but the hosts held on comfortably.

Burnley were beaten 2-1 by League One side Leeds in their friendly at Turf Moor.

Despite missing a number of key players to injury, Leeds went ahead through Mike Grella and extended their lead thanks to Andy Robinson's strike.

David Edgar grabbed a consolation for Burnley late on.

Wigan's preparations for the new season suffered a setback at Carrow Road as they lost 3-2 at League One Norwich - after twice being ahead.

The Latics went in front after just nine minutes through Charles N'Zogbia's cool finish, but the impressive Canaries were back on level terms before the break as Chris Martin sidefooted home Jon Otsemobor's cross after some poor defending on the right.

Wigan quickly regained the lead through Cho Won-Hee who produced a superb finish after being set up by Jason Scotland's clever pass.

But the hosts had the final word, quickly equalising through Martin's second goal of the game before grabbing a winner after 76 minutes when Simon Whaley slipped the ball past keeper Mike Pollitt.

Steve Finnan limped off on his debut for Portsmouth, who were crushed 4-0 by Benfica in their second and final match in the City of Guimaraes Trophy.

Oscar Cardoza's curling 16th-minute free-kick gave the Portuguese giants the lead and four minutes later the same player doubled the advantage when he rounded off a flowing move.

Finnan was introduced for the second half but within 25 minutes he went off injured with what appeared to be a hamstring injury and before substitute Luke Wilkinson could replace the former Liverpool defender, Benfica made it 3-0 when Weldon headed home Carlos Martin's cross.

And Benfica's emphatic victory was sealed with five minutes left when Wilkinson turned Di Maria's cross into his own net.

Massa: I am lucky to be alive

Felipe Massa has admitted he is lucky to be alive after last week's crash in the Hungarian Grand Prix, and is vowing to race again.

The Brazilian has made a swift recovery from life-saving surgery required after the accident during qualifying for the event last Saturday.

Massa was struck by a suspension spring which had worked its way off Rubens Barrichello's Brawn GP, resulting in the Brazilian crashing his Ferrari into a tyre barrier.

After the operation, Massa spent two days in a medically-induced coma, but has improved rapidly since waking earlier this week.

He plans to return home to Sao Paulo tomorrow and told the News of the World: "I know I'm lucky to be alive.

"I don't remember anything about the accident but I will race again."

He explained: "When I woke up I didn't know why I was in hospital, so I was asking 'why am I here?'.

"I was pulling all the tubes and Eduardo, my brother, tried to stop me - so we had a fight.

"The accident was so unlucky but I know I'm lucky to be alive. I don't remember anything of what happened.

"It was my race, so when I awoke from the coma I couldn't believe it when they told me Lewis (Hamilton) had won and Kimi (Raikkonen) was second."

Seven-times world champion Michael Schumacher visited Massa in hospital and said: "It's good I finally made it to see Felipe - I feel better now.

"I'm surprised at his condition as the accident was only a week ago. We chatted for three hours and I feel really relieved now."

The 40-year-old German, who will deputise for Ferrari in the absence of Massa, has wasted little time in getting behind the wheel again.

With in-season testing banned, Schumacher is not allowed to drive the current Ferrari, but has been practising in an older car.

He added: "I have to say I'm feeling muscles I was not even aware existed any more - but you cannot test for a day after such a lot of time without feeling anything.

"I'm curious to see what will happen in the coming days."

Gerrard makes scoring return

Steven Gerrard swept away the stress of his courtroom battle to score a trademark goal on his return to action.

Just hours after being found not guilty of affray by a jury at Liverpool Crown Court, the Reds captain made a surprise appearance in a pre-season friendly at Tranmere.

In a Liverpool XI otherwise comprised of reserves and youth players, Gerrard scored his team's first equaliser in a 2-2 draw at Prenton Park, blasting home a low drive from outside the box.

The news will have been welcomed on the other side of the world, where Rafael Benitez and the rest of his first-team players are currently engaged in a pre-season tour of the Far East.

Benitez was told of Gerrard's acquittal during a training session and said: "We are really pleased. He is very important for us and he can now focus just on football.

"We are all pleased at the club and over here at the training camp.

We have been supporting him all the time and were just waiting for the decision. Now he can concentrate just on football and hopefully play at the same level as last year."

This has not been the smoothest of pre-seasons for Benitez, and the Far East tour this week has been dogged by a succession of problems.

Injuries to Martin Skrtel and Nabil El Zhar which forced the players to return to England for treatment have come on top of the continued transfer saga surrounding Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano and Alvaro Arbeloa.

But as he prepared his side for Sunday's friendly against Singapore, Benitez was relieved that the cloud hanging over Gerrard has now been swept away after he was acquitted at Liverpool Crown Court following an incident in Southport on December 29 last year.

Gerrard has missed the Far East trip because of the week-long trial, and will be reunited with his team-mates next week when Liverpool return to the UK.

Speaking outside court after the verdict, Gerrard said: "Can I just say how pleased I am with today's verdict.

"I'd like to put this case behind me. I'm really looking forward to the season ahead and concentrating on football.

"I'd like to say a big thank you to my legal team, my friends and family and to everyone at Liverpool Football Club for supporting me."

Benitez also confirmed that Real Madrid target Alonso was fit following an ankle injury and ready to play against Singapore.

Benitez, who also has Yossi Benayoun back from an ankle problem, said: "I am very happy to have Yossi and Xabi back. They are working very hard, the tempo of the session was fantastic and the fans really enjoyed it.

"We are trying to step up our training every day, especially for the international players. Today we had three teams playing against each other. It was good competition and pleasing for me to see."

Breaking News: Alonso asks to leave

Xabi Alonso is reported to have handed in an official transfer request at Liverpool as he seeks to secure a switch to Real Madrid.

The Liverpool Echo claims that the Spain international midfieder has informed Anfield officials in writing that he wishes to leave the Premier League club for the Bernabeu.

The Spanish giants have been very public in their pursuit of the midfielder and on Wednesday there were reports that he had been given 48 hours to make a decision on his future.

Now it just remains for Real to make a bid acceptable to Liverpool, who want upwards of £25million for the Euro 2008 winner.

Eto'o finalises 'swap' deal

Samuel Eto'o has signed a five-year deal with Inter Milan as part of the 'swap' deal involving Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Barcelona.

The Serie A champions confirmed the Cameroon striker had signed a deal with them just over an hour after Barcelona announced Ibrahimovic had signed a five-year contract with them - in a deal worth 66million euros.

Eto'o passed a medical at the San Matteo hospital in Pavia this evening, before the finishing touches were put on a deal that will also see winger Alexander Hleb join Inter on a season-long loan.

A statement on Inter's website welcomed the player's arrival to the club and revealed the 28-year-old will be presented before the media tomorrow afternoon.

"Everyone at FC Internazionale and all the fans warmly welcome Samuel Eto'o to the club, and are proud to have him in the team, convinced that new and important triumphs will be reached together," the statement on www.inter.it read.

After completing his medical this evening, Eto'o said he was looking forward to establishing himself as a force in Serie A after five prolific seasons with Barca.

"I made history at Barcelona, but that history is finished now," he said.

"A new story begins at Inter; I'm starting from scratch; I want a new adventure and I hope everything goes well.

"I can't but wish Ibrahimovic good luck. I have won a lot at Barcelona and now I hope to do the same with these colours, if not, more."

Ibrahimovic was presented before the media in Barcelona this evening, where the details of the deal were revealed.

Barcelona have paid 46million euros for the Swede, with the extra 20million made up in the Spanish club's valuation of Eto'o.

That went most of the way to making up the 70million euros valuation Inter had placed on Ibrahimovic, with the Italians also getting Hleb on a year-long loan.

The Belorussian has shown some reluctance to agree to the deal, but it may end in a permanent move - with Inter having an option to buy the player for 10million euros after his loan deal expires next summer.

Eto'o, however, seems focused on making his mark at the San Siro and pledged to score more goals than he did during his time at Barcelona.

"I promise the fans that I will work every day, as I have always done," said Eto'o - who scored 39 goals in 49 appearances for the Catalans last term.

"This is at the base of everything. I believe in my work and the group. I don't have to say that what I want to do is score even more goals; I know I'm capable of scoring goals and I know that through my work I will score even more.

"I know that Inter strongly want to win the Champions League, but you can't just think about the cup - because if you're too concentrated on the Champions League the other objectives fade into the background and then maybe there's also the risk of exiting the European competition as well.

Hughes has high standards in chase

Mark Hughes does not want to settle for second-rate defenders if bids for John Terry and Joleon Lescott fail.

The pair have been on the radar of the Eastlands outfit all summer, with their respective clubs, Chelsea and Everton, already turning down several attempts to land their signatures.

Speaking after his side lost the final match of their pre-season tour of South Africa 1-0 against Kaizer Chiefs, Hughes said he is only interested in bringing in players better than those already at the City of Manchester Stadium.

"We're in the market for good players that we think will improve us," he said. "If we can bring them to the club, then we'll be very delighted.

"But a lot of the good players out there are at good clubs and clubs that don't have to do business with us.

"It's a case of saying what's available, what we can bring to the football club to improve. If the only players that are available are players that won't improve us to any great extent, then we go with what we have.

"Because it doesn't make sense to bring players in that are at a same level, we need to bring players in that are at a better level."

Terry has looked like the prime target of Hughes all summer and asked whether the silence over the issue by the England captain had convinced him even further that the player would be interested in a move, he said: "I have no idea.

"John Terry is a player not at the club, who I keep having to answer questions about. We made a bid for a player that was rejected and that's where we stand at this moment in time.

"Irrespective of what his club does or what John does, we can have no influence on that and that's where we are really."

City have already made major inroads in the transfer market this summer, bringing in Roque Santa Cruz, Carlos Tevez, Gareth Barry and Emmanuel Adebayor, the latter pair featuring in today's game against Chiefs in Pretoria.

Following the arrival of those top names, there is also likely to be additional pressure on Hughes to deliverer and he knows the stakes are high.

He continued: "There's been a lot of speculation and debates over a lot of things in connection to Manchester City.

"I've said before, last year expectations were too high for us to fulfil. This year we hope to do better in that respect, we hope to obviously have a squad of players that will compete and do very well.

"Every manager has an expectation on them and I'm no different from any manager in the Premier League or South African football. The pressure is always there to win football matches and we live with that on a daily basis.

"Maybe last year I lived with that more than most, but I'm quite comfortable with that as an expectation. It's something that we deal with quite regularly and it doesn't worry me unduly. It's part and parcel of being a football manager."

Former Arsenal striker Adebayor, one of City's biggest summer signings, made an encouraging start to his career under Hughes, despite the club losing, and linked up impressively at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium alongside the likes of Craig Bellamy and Martin Petrov up front.

The manager said: "I thought Emmanuel was excellent today. For his first game, obviously when you combine a player of his quality and standing in the game, then you expect a certain level of performance and he certainly provided that for us.

"He showed the qualities that we all know he has, which will be invaluable for us this season, so we're absolutely delighted that he's here. He's going to be a huge player for us this season once the team understands the best way to play with him.

"He plays in a way that enables him to get the best out of his team-mates, so we've got an exceptional player. So we're delighted with his performance today and sure we'll be really happy with his performance right through the season."

Youngster Javan Vidal, Richard Dunne and Nedum Onuoha all picked up injuries in the game, but Hughes does not think any of them are too serious.

"Richard Dunne has a little problem with his knee which is consequence of an international at the end of the season that has dragged on and as a result he was finding it uncomfortable today as he was playing.

"There was no point taking chances, so we took him off as a precaution.

"Nedum has nine stitches in a head wound. Javan Vidal had to come off with a badly gashed shin. But he's walking around, so there's no long-term damage."

Fergie: Fifteen is good for Owen

Sir Alex Ferguson has set Michael Owen a 15-goal target for his debut season at Manchester United.

Owen was a surprise capture for a club reeling at the loss of Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez from their title-winning squad.

At first, most United fans were seriously underwhelmed by the signing. However, with two goals in three games on the Red Devils' Far East tour so far, Owen has hit the ground running and looks fitter and fresher than at any stage during four seasons at Newcastle.

Ferguson, though, does intend paying some heed to Owen's past fitness record.

The Scot nevertheless expects Owen to figure in 25 games this term. And providing he reaches that figure, Ferguson sees no reason why his new forward should fail to hit the 15-goal mark.

"Michael has scored two already and I hope there are plenty more to come," said the Red Devils chief.

"If you look at his record over the years, even the last two years at Newcastle when they were going through a difficult time, he scored one in every two games.

"He is easily capable of reaching that level again.

"If he plays 25 games for me this season I think we'll get 15 goals."

Ferguson was speaking ahead of tomorrow's encounter with Hangzhou Greentown at the Dragon Stadium, which will conclude another successful trip to Asia that once again highlights how popular United are in this part of the world.

The reaction in South Korea to Park Ji-sung's arrival was astounding, while United arrived in China to instantly find their team hotel mobbed by supporters today, with high pitched screaming coming every time one of the players ventured into public view.

Little wonder Ferguson is not ruling out the possibility of signing another Chinese player, despite the purchase of Dong Fangzhou now being regarded as a failure.

"United are always searching for talent throughout the world," said Ferguson.

"Of course we had Dong for a couple of years.

"He is a good boy, a good professional and he did his very best but unfortunately it didn't work out for him.

"However if we see potential we will bring them to United. Our search always goes on."

Adebayor makes Man City switch

Manchester City have completed the signing of Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor on a five-year deal.

The 25-year-old Togo international has joined the Blues from Arsenal for an undisclosed fee after passing his medical at Eastlands this evening.

The striker becomes the latest big-money addition to Mark Hughes' squad this summer following the captures of Gareth Barry, Carlos Tevez and Roque Santa Cruz.

Several hundred City fans were at the stadium this evening to welcome Adebayor, who hopes to help the ambitious club move forward.

"It made me feel really welcome and special and I can't wait to play for City's fans and show them what I can do," said Adebayor, who, as at Arsenal, will wear the number 25 shirt.

"I was born to play football and that is what I want to do. I have come here to make history for this club and those supporters.

"It is what the chairman and the manager told me that they want too and I can't wait to get started."

Hughes, meanwhile, has hailed the capture of the striker, who was signed by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger for £3million from Monaco in 2006.

"Emmanuel has been one of the top forwards in the Premier League since he arrived from France and we are delighted he has agreed to come and join us," the Welshman told club website www.mcfc.co.uk.

"Along with the other signings we have made in the last two windows he will greatly enhance our ability to compete with the top sides.

"His arrival is another clear indication that we are determined to augment the players we have here with the best of international talent.

"He adds vital balance and power to our attack. He has everything a top forward needs. He is versatile, powerful, quick and agile on the ball.

"I am looking forward to working with him as are the rest of the staff. He will definitely add a new dimension to our play. I have been a great admirer for a long time."

Adebayor's first task will be to fly out to join his new team-mates in South Africa, where their pre-season tour began with a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Orlando Pirates earlier today.

Safina returns to winning ways

Dinara Safina recorded a first round win in the Banka Koper Slovenia Open in Portoroz today.

The world number one eased past local wild-card Tadeja Majeric 6-0 6-4 in her first match since her All-England Club ambitions were so ruthlessly exposed by Venus Williams in their semi-final match-up on Centre Court.

Sixth seed Lucie Safarova beat Great Britain's Katie O'Brien 6-4 6-4 but third seed Kaia Kanepi was a surprise loser, going down 6-1 6-2 to the impressive Olga Govortseva of Belarus.

Schnyder's hopes ended in Italy

Patty Schnyder's hopes of ending an 11-year drought on clay have come to an end at the Internazionali Femminili di Tennis di Palermo.

Schnyder was forced to retire injured in the first set of her quarter-final against Anna-Lena Groenefeld

Second-seed Schnyder, who last triumphed on the surface in Palermo in 1998, lasted just half-an-hour before forfeiting with the German 4-3 ahead.

Top seed Flavia Pennetta had it easier with a comfortable 6-4 6-4 win over France's Aravane Rezai, while her fellow Italian Tathiana Garbin defeated Olga Govortsova 6-2 6-1.

The crowd then cheered a third home player into the last four as Sara Errani edged Yaroslava Shvedova 6-2 7-5.

Schnyder's hopes ended in Italy

Patty Schnyder's hopes of ending an 11-year drought on clay have come to an end at the Internazionali Femminili di Tennis di Palermo.

Schnyder was forced to retire injured in the first set of her quarter-final against Anna-Lena Groenefeld

Second-seed Schnyder, who last triumphed on the surface in Palermo in 1998, lasted just half-an-hour before forfeiting with the German 4-3 ahead.

Top seed Flavia Pennetta had it easier with a comfortable 6-4 6-4 win over France's Aravane Rezai, while her fellow Italian Tathiana Garbin defeated Olga Govortsova 6-2 6-1.

The crowd then cheered a third home player into the last four as Sara Errani edged Yaroslava Shvedova 6-2 7-5.

Manchester United have rejected a plea to fulfil their match in Indonesia, and also said no to a chance to visit Australia instead. United are still

Manchester United have rejected a plea to fulfil their match in Indonesia, and also said no to a chance to visit Australia instead.

United are still discussing how to fill the gap created by the terrorist attacks in Jakarta yesterday, which led them to scrap a trip supposed to take place immediately after today's encounter with a Malaysia XI in Kuala Lumpur.

It seems certain Sir Alex Ferguson and his squad will remain where they are for an extra few days before flying to Seoul on Wednesday as planned.

However, a number of alternatives are still being discussed, some with more vigour than others.

And one that was dismissed quickly was an appeal from the Indonesian government to reverse their decision to abandon the second leg of the trip.

"Manchester United needs to show that they are with us not just in words, but in deeds," said presidential spokesman Dino Patti Djalal.

"There is no more powerful message to the world than to continue with the Jakarta match as planned.

"Of all the great feats that have been and will be achieved by Manchester United as a great football team with a heart, this one - proceeding with the match in Jakarta as a measure of solidarity - will be long remembered by history."

Given United were supposed to be staying at the Ritz-Carlton, one of two hotels targeted by suicide bombers that left eight dead and over 50 injured, the reaction was understandable.

"The decision to cancel the Jakarta leg of the tour was not taken lightly," said a club spokesman.

"But after an act of terrorism, the club received advice from a variety of sources, including our own Foreign Office. That advice has not changed and so the club's decision has to stand.

"Everyone at the club is disappointed not to be able to play in Indonesia but it has a responsibility to its players and staff."

It is estimated the total loss incurred by the cancellation will be around £4million when refunds to supporters and the loss of commercial revenue are taken into account.

United are still investigating the possibility of getting the Indonesian Select outfit they were supposed to be playing on Monday into Malaysia in order to play the game as planned.

However, a number of corporate events with sponsors and local companies in Indonesia have had to be scrapped.

Also off the table is a £1million offer to play a single match in Sydney made by the Football Federation of Australia.

The offer of a match - against either Sydney FC or Melbourne Victory at the ANZ Stadium - had some merit given United are extremely popular Down Under.

However, the extra travel - it would have meant a nine-hour flight to Sydney and then 11 hours up to Seoul, where United are set to play on Friday - made it a non-starter given they are heading back to Europe straight after a game on the Sunday in China.

"We were planning to pull out all the stops to make it happen," admitted FFA director of communications Bonita Mersiades.

"However, their commitments meant the game could only be played on Monday, which we were willing to organise, but there was a lot of to-ing and fro-ing on their side, so unfortunately it wasn't possible."

In addition to scheduling difficulties, United are still knocking back questions about why they put themselves in this position given previous warnings of terror attacks in Indonesia, where over 200 people were killed in the Bali bombings in 2002.

However, chief executive David Gill insists the correct authorities were consulted and United were right to arrange the game.

"We are experienced at travelling," said Gill.

"We don't take these decisions lightly. We discussed the situation with the relevant authorities and it was the right decision at the time.

"The experts felt it was a safe place to go."

BBC chiefs' bonuses 'suspended'

Bonuses for the 10 most senior BBC executives are to be suspended indefinitely, the chairman of the BBC Trust has said.

Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Sir Michael Lyons said some salaries could "appear too high" during the recession.

Executives had already agreed not to receive pay rises or bonuses this year.

Meanwhile, the culture secretary has said it is "self-defeating" of BBC managers to oppose plans to share the licence fee with other broadcasters.

The BBC said it would respond to the comments at a news conference on Tuesday.

The corporation is currently trying to cut its costs and save £1.7bn between now and 2013.

'Wage restraint'

Sir Michael's announcement came after widespread criticism of high salaries and expenses among BBC top brass.

According to the Telegraph, the Trust's annual report, to be published later, will show the 10 directors earned almost £5m in salary last year - 17% more than the year before.

Writing in the Telegraph, Sir Michael said: "I can reveal that we have already reached agreement that Executive Board bonus payments will be suspended until further notice and not reintroduced without the Trust's approval."

He said the Trust had "consistently emphasised the need for wage restraint", although he acknowledged that competitive salaries were needed to retain the best staff.

Sir Michael said: "We must, however, also ensure that we maintain the trust and confidence of those who pay for the BBC - the licence fee paying public.

"We have to be sensitive to the prevailing economic wind which currently can make the top BBC salaries appear too high."

Last July, Director General Mark Thompson defended the decision to award pay rises of up to £107,000 each for the BBC's executive directors.

He did, however, waive his own right to a bonus because of the "scale of disruption and uncertainty" facing his BBC colleagues.

'Feeling of despair'

Ben Bradshaw accused BBC bosses of showing poor leadership

But it is also facing new challenges to its funding after the government outlined proposals to allocate 3.5% of the licence fee to other broadcasters including ITV to fund the provision of regional news and children's programming.

Mr Thompson said "under no circumstances" would it be a good idea and Sir Michael said it would "damage BBC output".

But speaking to the Financial Times, Culture Secretary Ben Bradshaw said they had lost the confidence of many of their senior staff over the issue.

He said: "There is almost a feeling of despair among a lot of highly respected BBC professionals.

"I don't know why they have adopted this position. I don't think it's sensible. I think it is wrong-headed and ultimately self-defeating."

Spain through after tough test

Defending Davis Cup champions Spain were made to battle all the way in their World Group quarter-final against Germany.

Spain, without the injured Rafael Nadal, clinched a 3-2 win over their European rivals as Juan Carlos Ferrero defeated Andreas Beck 6-4 6-4 6-4 in today's deciding rubber.

Germany, trailing 2-1 overnight, levelled the tie earlier today as Philipp Kohlschreiber beat Fernando Verdasco 6-4 6-2 1-6 2-6 8-6 in a thrilling match at the Puerto Banus bullring.

Kohlschreiber's efforts in defeating the world number nine were in vain, however, as former world number one Ferrero eased to victory against Beck as Spain set up a semi-final encounter with Israel, who wrapped up a 4-1 win against Russia in Tel Aviv.

Having booked a first ever appearance in the final four by easing to an unassailable 3-0 lead yesterday, Israel had to share the honours in the reverse singles today as Igor Andreev restored some pride for Russia with victory over Dudi Sela, who retired injured when trailing 3-4 in the first set.

Harel Levy ensured Israel ended on a high note, however, taking his second singles win of the weekend as he defeated Igor Kunitsyn 6-4 4-6 7-6 (7/2).

Croatia marched into the last four after taking an unassailable 3-1 lead over the United States.

With the US trailing 2-1 after yesterday's rubbers, all eyes were on James Blake to level the tie for the Davis Cup's most successful nation, but he failed to rise to the challenge of Croatian number one Marin Cilic, who posted a hard-fought 6-3 6-3 4-6 6-2 win to settle the tie.

"I think this was one of the best matches I've played," Cilic said on daviscup.com.

"Today I played a lot of it on adrenaline, the crowd was carrying me throughout the match. I really played well, I felt good on court, moved really well, and even though I lost the third set I felt I was playing well and my tactics were perfect, so I kept going and eventually broke him."

The dead rubber will see Roko Karanusic face US doubles specialist Bob Bryan.

In Ostrava, Radek Stepanek played through the pain barrier to claim a priceless win over Juan Monaco and guide the Czech Republic into a semi-final clash with the Croats at the expense of last year's beaten finalists Argentina.

With the Czechs resuming 2-1 ahead overnight, world number five Juan Martin del Potro levelled the tie with a 6-4 6-4 6-4 win over Tomas Berdych to take it to a decider.

Stepanek, battling a knee problem, was rarely in trouble in the fifth and final rubber against Monaco, taking the first set on a tie-break before easing away to a 7-6 (7/5) 6-3 6-2 triumph which ensured the Czechs' first final-four appearance since 1996.

"It was the biggest effort I have ever done in Davis Cup," said Stepanek.

"I had to really dig deep to step on the court. After the doubles I was 90% sure that I'm not able to play singles, but I was assured by the doctors that it was not going to damage my knee.

"I had to lie to myself that it didn't hurt."

Hamilton goes quickest again

Lewis Hamilton appeared to dismiss claims of showboating by posting the fastest practice time of the German Grand Prix weekend to date.

It had been suggested, after Hamilton was quickest yesterday (Friday) at the end of the two 90-minute sessions, he was merely putting on a good show in his McLaren on the home turf of engine suppliers Mercedes.

Hamilton's car does boast a considerable upgrade rushed through for this race at the Nurburgring, to such a degree the team had no time to fit the new parts to team-mate Heikki Kovalainen's McLaren, underlined by the fact the Finn finished 19th.

The world champion, who so far has just nine points to his name and has failed to score in the last four grands prix, seemingly has a genuine shot of competing with the frontrunners again this weekend.

Hamilton finished today's hour-long run with a time of one minute 31.121 seconds, a second faster than his hot lap of yesterday, with the 24-year-old quickest in the first two of the three sectors.

Renault's Fernando Alonso and Ferrari's Felipe Massa were second and third overall, both just over two tenths of a second down on the Briton.

The Red Bulls of Sebastian Vettel, who will be going for his third pole in a row in qualifying today, and Mark Webber were fourth and fifth, but close to half a second adrift.

They were followed by Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen, the Toyota of Jarno Trulli, and then the Williams duo, Nico Rosberg and Kazuki Nakajima, with the latter 0.6secs off the pace.

Championship leader Jenson Button, complaining of the cold and the inability to get any heat into his tyres with temperatures again a chilly 12 degrees centigrade, was 11th and almost a second down.

Brawn GP team-mate Rubens Barrichello spent the first half hour in the pits as the team resolved an electrical issue before eventually finishing 14th.

At the rear, and with the suggestion he will be replaced after this race along with Renault's Nelson Piquet, was Toro Rosso's Sebastien Bourdais, over 1.7secs adrift.

SCENARIOS: Tension in China's restive Xinjiang

Wed Jul 8, 2009
By Ben Blanchard

SHANGHAI (Reuters) - Chinese President Hu Jintao abandoned plans to attend a G8 summit in Italy on Wednesday, returning home early to deal with ethnic violence that has left at least 156 dead in China's northwestern region of Xinjiang.

More than 1,000 people have been injured and 1,434 arrested in unrest between Han Chinese and Muslim Uighurs since Sunday in Urumqi, capital of the energy-rich region which borders Central Asia and Pakistan.

Here are some scenarios at how current tensions may play out:

WILL UNREST SPREAD TO REST OF XINJIANG?

- Demonstrations and even rioting could break out in other parts of the vast region, especially in areas which are heavily populated by minority Muslim Uighurs. Urumqi, by contrast, has a very large Han Chinese population.

Chinese state media have already reported on protests in the old Silk Road city of Kashgar and exile groups say other cities have also been affected, though those reports are hard to verify.

- But after the violence in Urumqi, Chinese security forces will rush in reinforcements to all parts of Xinjiang to try to nip any new protests in the bud, making a repetition of Sunday's riots unlikely though not impossible.

WILL MILITANTS MOUNT TERROR ATTACKS?

- Militants accused by Beijing of using terror to seek an independent state called East Turkestan could mount bombing or shooting attacks.

Xinjiang has been hit by numerous bombings and shootings over the years, including attacks in the region before and during last year's Beijing Olympics, so attacks are possible.

Chinese missions in the Netherlands and Germany have been attacked by unidentified men.

Some analysts and rights groups question the level of organization and threat posed by these groups, saying they are not as fearsome as China makes out.

- Any terror attacks would meet with not only public outrage, which the government may find hard to control, but also an even tighter security clampdown against Uighurs. That would generate yet more Uighur resentment, and so the cycle of enmity, hate and suspicion would start again.

WILL XINJIANG'S ECONOMY DIVE?

- Tourism, especially domestic, will take a hit. Travel agents have already reported a collapse in demand. But the government will probably step in to pump-prime the economy, part of an existing policy to bring wealth to the region partially in the hopes of trying to win over the local people.

- Analysts do not expect China's markets to be affected, unless the unrest engulfs the whole of Xinjiang and gets completely out of control or spreads to the rest of the country. China's stock markets have largely shrugged off the unrest.

WILL CHINA SUBSTANTIALLY LOOSEN ITS GRIP ON XINJIANG?

- Unlikely. The Chinese government, and many ordinary Chinese, already believe they are more than generous to Xinjiang, pumping in billions of dollars for schools, hospitals, roads and farming projects, as well as giving Uighurs privileges not extended to Han Chinese. For instance, there is no enforced family planning.

- Any debate on policy reform in Xinjiang will be kept out of the public eye to avoid the government being seen to be weak and capitulating to the rioters, which would be extremely unpopular with the broader population in the rest of the country.

WILL CHINA GRANT XINJIANG INDEPENDENCE?

- This is almost guaranteed never to happen, at least not while the Communist Party remains in power in Beijing. And even in the unlikely event the Party looses its grip on power, Chinese people, brought up to believe that Xinjiang is an inseparable part of China, will not let it slip away easily.

- Xinjiang is also too strategic a place for China to let go. It borders Central Asia and Pakistan and is rich in natural resources.

- Giving Xinjiang independence would set a dangerous precedent for other restless minorities, including Tibetans and Mongolians. No leader would want that to happen under their watch lest they go down in history as "sinners."

Brawn gunning for success at the ‘Ring

Ross Brawn has revealed that Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello will both be ready for the German Grand Prix after some improvements.

Brawn GP has dominated Formula 1 this season and Brawn's team currently tops the Constructors' Championship, having won 105 points, 30.5 points ahead of runner-up Red Bull Racing.

Button and Barrichello are also heading the Drivers' Championship, with the British driver comfortably ahead by 23 points.

Despite their overall excellence this season on the whole, Brawn tasted defeat at the British Grand Prix, as Red Bull were a cut above the rest, with Sebastian Vettel taking the win at Silverstone.

Brawn GP will be looking to dominate the German GP, especially with the added significance of Mercedes being their engine partner - a fact that will give the team a little more motivation down the stretch.

"The team is looking forward to returning to the race track at the German Grand Prix next weekend and the Nürburgring should be a good circuit for our car and play to its strengths," said Brawn.

"We have several new aerodynamic parts from Silverstone which were not used in qualifying and the race due to the issues that we faced there, along with additional improvements scheduled for the Nürburgring, which should position us well going into the weekend."

"Whilst coming away with third and sixth placed finishes from Silverstone was still a good outcome from our home Grand Prix, we would be the first to admit that the result did not meet our expectations."

"However we have always said that we would have a fight on our hands to maintain our excellent run of results at the start of the season and everyone at the factory and at Mercedes-Benz High Performance Engines in Brixworth is looking forward to that challenge. "

"As a team, we have a good history of going away from a race, thinking about the outcome, identifying where we need to make improvements and then coming back stronger."

"As the home Grand Prix for Mercedes-Benz, we will be hoping to come away from the race in Germany next weekend with a successful result."

Rubens Barrichello is keen to race at the Eifel Mountains this weekend, returning for the first time since 2007.

The 37-year-old managed to beat Button at Silverstone and will be gunning for his first victory of the season.

"I have always enjoyed racing at the Nürburgring and it provides a good challenge for the drivers," added the Brazilian. "The layout and flow is nice which allows you to get into a rhythm and there are some interesting undulations and bumps to look out for."

"I won the race here back in 2002 so the circuit always holds some good memories for me. The weather can be a little unpredictable due to its location right in the Eifel Mountains but we'll be hoping for some warmer temperatures than we saw at Silverstone for the last race."

"The first corner here is really important to set yourself up for a good lap and it's a bumpy run down from the start line. You have to get your approach absolutely right and position yourself well for a good exit. However it is also one of the best overtaking opportunities if the cars around you slide straight on so you need to be alert to take advantage of any opportunities."

"Many of the corners at the Nürburgring are off-camber so getting the correct line for your corner entry is important all round the lap."

"We haven't raced here for a couple of years so it will be interesting to see how the circuit feels in a good car."

Brothers chasing Open dream

Brothers Lloyd and Elliot Saltman could both be playing in the Open next week after making flying starts in qualifying.

With only four places up for grabs on each of the three courses, 27-year-old Elliot leads at Glasgow Gailes after a four-under-par 67, while just down the coast at Kilmarnock Barassie 23-year-old Lloyd is in second place following a seven-under 66.

Lloyd is much the better known of the pair. Four years ago at St Andrews he took the silver medal as leading amateur by finishing a brilliant 15th and two years ago was a team-mate of Rory McIlroy at the Walker Cup.

He has yet to earn a European Tour card, but said: "I've been playing well on the Challenge Tour the last three or four weeks and it would be fantastic if Elliot and I could both get in.

"He arrived when I was playing the 14th and told me he had shot four under and was leading. I was five under at the time and it was great to hear because we're not competing against each other this time.

"I'd love to be back in the Open. St Andrews was my only one so far because that was the year they changed it so that only the top 10 rather than the top 16 got in the following year."

It is thought that they would be the first brothers in the same Open since Seve and Manuel Ballesteros 25 years ago - when Seve won.

Lloyd's 66 stood as a record for the altered Barassie course for only 45 minutes, Austrian Markus Brier lowering it by two in front of what he called "the biggest crowd I've had all year".

They had not arrived to see him in action, though. Brier was partnering double Masters champion Jose Maria Olazabal and his former Ryder Cup team-mate Barry Lane, but they shot only 70 and 72 respectively on the par-73 lay-out.

Because he was competing in the French Open yesterday, Olazabal hired a private jet at a cost of around £6,000 to get him to the qualifier.

He was still just too late, however, for a practice round.

"I got here about 3.40pm, but the course had been closed," he said.

"I walked 14 holes and it didn't really count against me.

"I need something special to make it now, but the way I am playing it's not looking very promising."

It is distinctly more promising, however, than the situation facing 1999 Open runner-up Jean Van de Velde.

After a late night Ryanair flight from Paris Van de Velde bogeyed the first four holes at Glasgow Gailes and finished with a five-over 76.

mfl

Yorkshire's Gordon J Brand, runner-up to Greg Norman at Turnberry way back in 1986 and now 53, matched Olazabal's 70, as did twice British amateur champion Gary Wolstenholme in his first attempt to qualify as a professional.

Former European Open champion Kenneth Ferrie, who missed out on Turnberry by a shot when finishing sixth at the French Open, was one worse than that.

Leading score at Western Gailes was a three-under-par 68 from Scottish amateur James Byrne.

He leads by one from Spaniard Carlos Balmaseda, while ex-Ryder Cup star Steve Richardson had a 71 and former PGA champion Andrew Oldcorn 73.

Elliot Saltman leads by two from a group which includes another former Ryder Cup player, Peter Baker.

Northern Ireland's Ronan Rafferty, European number one in 1989, had a 72, the same as Warren Bladon, winner of the British amateur title at Turnberry in 1996.

Three Americans, meanwhile, clinched their Open spots in Washington last night.

Brandt Snedeker's fifth place in the AT&T National got him in and Bryce Molder and Paul Goydos were the two leading non-exempt players in a current form money list that ran from early May.

City target Terry: Dubai or not Dubai

John Terry and Mark Hughes apparently stayed in the same hotel last week, with their reasons for visiting the gulf state unknown.

What is known is that Manchester City tabled a £30million offer for the Chelsea defender, which the Blues promptly dismissed.

The Sky Blues will attempt to swoop for the England skipper again soon, and are rumoured to be upping their bid to £35m.

Both Hughes and Terry looked to be unwinding at the exclusive Jumeirah Beach resort in Dubai. Whether both the men were on holiday remains to be seen.

Man City are very eager to get their man, but Barcelona stopper Carles Puyol has been tabbed to be ‘plan B' if they fail to get Terry.

La Blaugrana are anticipating another struggle with the Eastlands outfit, with another round of jousting after the Samuel Eto'o saga. Barca do not want to lose their inspirational captain, but the defender's agent is working with City to broker a mega-money move.

Holidaymakers at Jumeirah Beach allegedly told SunSport how they saw Hughes and Terry there the weekend before last.

Jason Dyer, from Hertfordshire, said: "We met John Terry in one of the restaurants and saw him around the hotel gardens. We also had breakfast at the next table to Mark Hughes."

"It was amazing to find when we came home City had made a bid for Terry."

Valdano: No Villa; Benz confirmed

Valencia striker David Villa is no longer a Real Madrid transfer target after the club confirmed the transfer of Karim Benzema.

Villa had been a long-term Real target but with Benzema joining the club, Real no longer need Villa.

The Frenchman signed a six-year contract at the Bernabeu. Real will reportedly pay an initial £30 million for Benzema which could rise to £35m.

Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo had already been signed by Real Madrid as their block-buster transfer policy continues unabated.

Ironically, it now seems Real's bitter rivals Barcelona are odds-on favourites to sign Villa.

Director general Jorge Valdano said: "Benzema fulfils the goal of having a striker, a goalscorer who brings a lot of presence and aggression to the forward line.

Asked whether Benzema's arrival meant Real would abandon their quest to bring in Villa, Valdano added: "Benzema and Villa both have these characteristics so the answer to your question is yes."

Raul Albiol, meanwhile, has become the latest player to be presented to the fans following his move from Valencia.

"I don't have to say that I'm very happy to be here. It comes with great pride to be welcomed like that," said the Spain international.

Trez could fill Benz place at Lyon

Karim Benzema's departure to Real could open the door for David Trezeguet to join Olympique Lyonnais.

Juventus have been wanting to sell the French striker for quite some time now and according to reports from both sides of the Alps, Lyon have already earmarked Trezeguet as their main target.

The 32-year-old striker has been priced at £8 million.

Juventus left Trezeguet on the bench for much of this season - even after his recovery from double knee surgery - and he has been looking for another club for some time.

The problem so far has been finding a side willing to pay his wages, but Lyon could be open to the move after selling Benzema.

In turn, the cash raised by Juventus in selling Trezeguet would be used to bring in a younger striker such as Lazio's Goran Pandev or Villarreal's Giuseppe Rossi.

Another Galactico on the horizon

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has announced that the Spanish giants are about to make another splurge.

According to Perez on Cadena SER radio programme El Larguero: "The next signing will be either today [Wednesday] or tomorrow, but I cannot say who until the deal is done."

When asked whether the speculations of David Villa or Diego Forlan were anything to go by, the Madrid chief remained indistinct.

"You are putting me in a tight spot.

"I like both of them, but Valencia want to keep Villa and Atletico want Forlan to stay. And if that's the case we won't be able to sign either.

"We are not going to do anything that Valencia and their fans would not like.

"Their club president wants Villa to remain and I respect that. I understand that and I am fine with their decision, because they want to send a message that they are eager to build a team that can win the league," he added.

Perez then justified the exorbitant amounts of money thrown by the club, for which he had received much criticism.

"The criticism has come from those who are not of Madrid, which is logical," he explained. "But this is not an expenditure... it's an investment.

"From a business point of view, when you buy equipment, it produces revenue and the equipment for us are the big players. And if you invest in them, they will bring you returns."

Real Madrid have spent almost £140 million for their recent ‘equipment', namely Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo, whether the ‘returns' will be shirt sales or club trophies is yet to be seen.

Kaka passes Real Madrid medical

Kaka successfully passed his medical with Real Madrid, the Primera Division giants have confirmed.

Kaka successfully passed his medical with Real Madrid this morning, the Primera Division giants have confirmed.

The 27-year-old had already completed a first set of medical tests with Madrid whilst on international duty in Brazil prior to the official announcement of his transfer from AC Milan on June 8.

Kaka, who Madrid have paid Milan a fee reportedly in the region of £56million for, will be presented by his new club at the Bernabeu this evening at a ceremony starting at 2030 local time.

The former Sao Paulo player arrived in Madrid this morning having just helped Brazil win the Confederations Cup in South Africa - being named player of the tournament in the process.

Kaka underwent various tests at the Sanitas La Moraleja Hospital in the Spanish capital, which he passed with flying colours according to the club's medical team.

Carlos Diez, Real Madrid's medical chief, said: "The tests taken today show that he is a player in perfect condition to play football at the highest level as has been seen at the Confederations Cup.

"These test have been done to complement the ones done in Brazil. We have incorporated new protocols, such as a biomechanic study, which allows us to study the player and be able to prevent future injuries and optimise his performances."

Kaka, who has agreed a six-year contract, was the first signing confirmed by Madrid after Florentino Perez returned to the club presidency at the start of this month.

Soon after bringing in the Brazilian, Perez also agreed a world-record £80million fee with Manchester United for Cristiano Ronaldo.

That deal was finalised on Friday night and will come into effect from tomorrow, with Ronaldo, who like Kaka will be tied to the Spanish giants until 2015, being presented on July 6.

Aside from Kaka and Ronaldo, Madrid also struck a deal to sign Valencia defender Raul Albiol last week for a fee believed to be around £13million, while the likes of Franck Ribery, David Villa and Xabi Alonso are all being linked with moves to the Bernabeu as Perez relaunches the famous 'galacticos' policy that he presided over during his first tenure at the club.

Then, whilst president from 2000-06, Perez sanctioned the big-money signings of superstars such as Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, Luis Figo and Ronaldo, a policy that reaped indifferent rewards with Madrid winning seven trophies under Perez in total but none in his final three years.

Late-night heroics carry Murray through

Andy Murray kept his Wimbledon dream alive but only after an intense five-set thriller under the Centre Court lights.

In the latest-ever finish at Wimbledon, 10.39pm, and with the famous hill still packed but in total darkness, the Scot needed the assistance of a partisan crowd and some raucous support from his mum Judy to defeat Stanislas Wawrinka of Switzerland 2-6 6-3 6-3 5-7 6-3.

Murray now faces wild-card entry Juan Carlos Ferrero in the quarter-finals in his continuing quest to make history by becoming the first Briton to win the singles title for 73 years.

The crowd witnessed three hours and 57 minutes triumph of determination and desire for Murray, spectacular entertainment and validation of Wimbledon's decision to spend around £80million on their new roof which had been put to its first use when showers halted the previous match between Dinara Safin and Amelie Mauresmo.

It was all the more creditable because Murray could not have started worse, losing the opening game on serve when Wawrinka unleashed some of his trademark backhand winners.

The indoor conditions and the anticipation seemed to have unnerved Murray for the first time. He was also struggling to control the power of Wawrinka who broke serve again in the third game and went on to overpower the Scot in what was a brilliant first set.

At that stage you could feel the apprehension on Centre Court.

Murray was in trouble again in the fifth game of the second set but managed to save two break points on his serve. Then came perhaps the pivotal moment in the match.

First, Murray produced a brilliant running forehand to salvage a game he might well have lost. And at the end of the next game Wawrinka received treatment from the trainer for what appeared to be a thigh muscle strain.

The mood changed. Murray was clawing his way into the match, imploring the Centre Court crowd to get behind him.

And they did just that, Murray pumping his fists, the crowd roaring him on and the errors inevitably beginning to leak from the Wawrinka racket as the Scot levelled the match.

Murray was required to save three break points in a tough sixth game of the third set which went to four deuces. And it turned out to be a significant momentum swing.

In the next game Wawrinka's concentration lapsed. He missed several easy forehands and Murray seized the initiative by taking the crucial break.

With Murray's first-serve percentage increasing he was beginning at last to take control of the match.

The fourth set was a tense struggle, full of heavy hitting, but it was Wawrinka who dug in to gain the only break in the 11th game.

And so it went to a fifth set in which Murray was first to strike, coming back from 40-love down to break the Wawrinka serve and wrest the momentum, only for the man from Lausanne to claw his way back from 3-0 behind.

It was down to guts and sheer will, and although Murray looked weary he dug deep to break the Wawrinka serve once more in the eighth game and clinch a famous victory.

Man City seal deal for Eto'o

Premier League moneybags Manchester City have splashed the cash again by signing Samuel Eto'o from Barcelona.

According to reports in this weekend's News of the World tabloid, the Cameroon international will travel to Eastlands this week to finalise personal details on a five-year deal before agreeing to a transfer thought to be in the region of £25million.

The news comes despite desperate attempts by Barcelona to keep one of their prized assets.

Eto'o's contract expires at the end of next season and with Barca keen to avoid losing one of their key players on a free transfer, it had been expected that he would move on this summer.

But after a season in which Eto'o contributed 36 goals as Barca claimed an unprecedented treble - winning the Primera Liga, Copa del Rey and Champions League - club president Joan Laporta was hoping the 28-year-old would sign a new contract.

However, City's recent high profile transfer activity - which has already seen them spend some £30million on Gareth Barry and Roque Santa Cruz - has convinced Eto'o that Mark Hughes' side is well and truly on the up.

"The player could have earned similar money at Barca," a City insider told the newspaper.

"But Eto'o and his people think City could be going places and is excited by the type of players they are attracting."

According to the paper, Eto'o's move finally fell into place after Barca turned their focus on Palmeiras star Keirrison who will be loaned to Valencia in return for them allowing David Villa to sign for Pep Guardiola's team.

Study rates Messi above Ronaldo

An international study shows that Lionel Messi has overtaken Cristiano Ronaldo as the most talked-about footballer in the world.

The Economics, Sports and Intangibles (ESI) study, conducted annually at the University of Navarra, reported that Messi is the highest-profile player in the world in terms of media value. The study researches various forms of media, sales and economic factors in determining the profile and value of players.

The research this year showed Messi was just ahead of Cristiano is terms of being the most talked-about player on the globe, also claiming that Messi's goal in the Champions League final helped him edge past the Portuguese superstar.

However, Ronaldo retained the title of the costliest player in the study despite being second in terms of media value. But although the researchers valued his saleability at €82 million, the sum Real Madrid will pay Manchester United for him is close to €96 million.

Messi was valued at €80m, with Liverpool star Fernando Torres coming in third at €67m.

In other ratings determined by the study, there were no surprises as United and Barcelona tied at the top of the team rankings, while United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was first in the managers' rankings as well.

The media value honor will certainly contribute to Messi's chances of winning the Ballon D'Or, an award whose panel is made up of journalists, and is a perfect present for him as the results of the study were released just a day after he turned 22 on Wednesday.

Federer voices betting concerns

Roger Federer has revealed his concern that corruption may be having an impact on top-level tennis.

And the Swiss ace has urged the sport's governing bodies to show no mercy if any cheating of the system can be proven.

It has emerged tennis authorities are looking into betting patterns on a Wimbledon match.

Day Three Video

Online bookmaker Betfair alerted the Tennis Integrity Unit (TIU) after £700,000 was gambled on the first-round contest in which Austrian number 26 seed Jurgen Melzer beat American Wayne Odesnik by three sets to love.

Some bookmakers suspended betting on the match as the wagers flooded in.

But it is believed the surge in betting could have been down to rumours circulating that Odesnik was suffering from an injury.

Federer was asked for his view on the overall suspicious betting issue and said: "We don't talk about it in the locker room. But it's happened more frequently than we talk about it.

"If it's happening or not, we are suspecting. We're not sure. But, of course, it has no place in tennis.

"But it's hard to control. But I'm sure the ATP (Association of Tennis Professional) and the ITF (International Tennis Federation), we're trying our best to catch those guys - if there are any out there.

"I think we should have massive bans on those who get caught so they get really scared of doing it.

"We talk about it in the Player Council, Player Board.

"Those are things definitely we're trying to fight. We have a good set-up, so we can't avoid that there are some funny results sometimes here and there. That doesn't mean it's really happening."

The world number two was also asked whether it would be difficult to control a flow of information reaching bookmakers.

"I don't know. I've never been approached," Federer said. "I never knew it existed until a few years ago when all of a sudden I heard about it. So I've been shocked to hear it.

"Well, we always hope that the players also want the best for the sport. That is, at the end of the day, what it comes down to."

American Odesnik, ranked 109 in the world, was not expected to win against Melzer even if fully fit.

Before the match the odds on a 3-0 win went from even money to 1-5.

Odesnik, 23, said on Tuesday night night: "I have no idea about this. I don't know why someone would bet for me to lose. This was my first tournament on grass this season.

"Yesterday, I had a little bit of a strain in my thigh but it was not a question of not being able to play."

He said he would not do anything to jeopardise his future.

And speaking before a practice session on Wednesday, Melzer, who is not under suspicion, said: "I played my match. I won in three sets. I didn't have any knowledge of any betting. I was surprised this morning to read it in the papers.

"Even if he was fit, I would beat him on three sets on grass.

"The odds would be that I would beat him in three sets. Any set I would lose would be a surprise.

"I'm now in a strange position. I'm getting asked questions about something I have nothing to do with.

"It's bad for tennis."

World number four Novak Djokovic agreed, like Federer, that the sport must battle corruption.

"Of course I have heard about it but never experienced it personally," Djokovic said.

"This is certainly something that we have to fight against because it doesn't deserve a place in our sport."

An International Tennis Federation spokesman said: "The Tennis Integrity Unit never comments on any ongoing investigation or lack thereof. We would never confirm or deny whether there is any ongoing investigation."

He added: "All sports have irregular betting patterns. There are a large variety of reasons for that. It doesn't necessarily mean that someone has done anything wrong."

The TIU is an independent unit which works on behalf of the ITF, ATP, WTA (Women's Tennis Association), and grand slam events.

Pato ready to shun the Blues

AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato insists he will remain at the San Siro as long as the club want him.

This was despite reported interested from Chelsea and former coach Carlo Ancelotti.

The Brazil international is a protege of Ancelotti, who brought him to Milan as a 17-year-old in 2007, and has been linked with a summer move to west London in the wake of the Italian coach's arrival at Stamford Bridge.

However, the 19-year-old, who is under contract at Milan until 2012, claims he will not be following Ancelotti to the Barclays Premier League club.

"Pato will be at Milan always," he told Studio Sport. "I am part of Milan and the club decides on my life.

"I am happy at Milan and I am here to work for Milan.

"The past year and a half for me has been very great, I want to help Milan win the Champions League."

Tevez agreed City deal weeks ago

Reports in England are claiming that Manchester City-bound Carlos Tevez decided to leave Old Trafford over two weeks ago.

The Mirror newspaper has reported that City will announce a £25.5 million move in the coming days, something that seems increasingly likely to be validated after United announced over the weekend that Tevez had rejected a five-year contract offer from the Red Devils.

A statement on United's website said that despite an offer that would make him one of the highest earners at Old Trafford," his advisers informed the club that, despite the success he has enjoyed during one of the club's most successful periods, he does not wish to continue playing for Manchester United."

Speculation is rife that Tevez was upset by United manager Sir Alex Ferguson's reluctance to give him a starting spot, and the Argentine has earlier claimed he did not feel like "part of the family" in Manchester.

Tevez apparently made his decision to leave since he felt he was not valued enough at the Theatre of Dreams, despite being a fan favourite, with cries of "Sign him up, sign him up" often erupting in the stands whenever he appeared toward the end of the season.

At Eastlands, Tevez is apparently set to sign a £100,000 a week contract, and will be the third signing for City after they snapped up Gareth Barry and Roque Santa Cruz.

Manager Mark Hughes, backed by the club's Arab owners, is looking to revamp a City side that looking attackingly listless last season, and Tevez will join fellow new signing Santa Cruz as well as Robinho and Craig Bellamy up front for them.

After losing both Cristiano Ronaldo and Tevez early in the summer, Ferguson will certainly be under pressure to bring in new players, but United have so far been quiet in the market, despite being linked with Antonio Valencia, Douglas Costa and Karim Benzema among others.

Cristiano: It was my fault

Cristiano Ronaldo claims that his departure from England is solely his fault and not Real Madrid or Man United's.

The soon-to-be Madrid galactico will be the world's most expensive player when he finally signs on the dotted line with 94 million euros in transfer fees dished out for him.

With many United fans feeling betrayed by his flippant switch to Madrid, the Portuguese thunderbolt wanted to explain his decisions.

News of the World reported that he said: "This transfer is no different to anyone else's. I expressed my desire to go to Real Madrid and the two clubs reached an agreement.

"Anything wrong with my exit was my fault, not Real Madrid's or Manchester United's. I opened my mouth and that is what caused problems between the two clubs, who acted in a proper manner.

"I could have handled things differently, and not have done everything so publicly," admitted the winger."

Ronaldo will join Brazilian ace Kaka as the two superstars who will be given the tough task of snatching back Spanish supremacy from archrivals Barcelona.

Tevez to leave United

Manchester United have confirmed that Argentinian striker Carlos Tevez will leave Old Trafford.

United chief executive David Gill had been in discussions with Tevez's advisor Kia Joorabchian, with the aim of keeping the popular Argentina star.

But, despite the offer of a lucrative five-year contract that would have made Tevez one of the highest paid players at the club, the South American has decided to leave.

"Following contact received from Carlos Tevez's advisors last night, in advance of the deadline the club set for concluding negotiations, Manchester United announces that Carlos will not be signing a new contract with the club," said a statement released by United this morning.

"The club agreed to pay the option price of £25.5million and offered Carlos a five year contract which would have made him one of its highest paid players.

"Disappointingly however, his advisors informed the club that, despite the success he has enjoyed during one of the club's most successful periods, he does not wish to continue playing for Manchester United.

"The club would like to thank Carlos for his services over the last two seasons and wishes him good luck for the future."

The news will be greeted with dismay by United fans, who have warmed to Tevez's all-action style during a two-year 'loan' spell that has included successive Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2008.

They had hoped some of the £80million about to be pocketed from Real Madrid for the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo would be used to keep Tevez, who also impressed during a season with West Ham.

However, after declaring earlier this season he was deeply unhappy at a perceived lack of match action - even though he made more appearances than either Wayne Rooney or Dimitar Berbatov, it was always likely the South American would move on.

Tevez is certainly not short of options, with new Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti keen to lure the former Boca Juniors star to Stamford Bridge.

Yet Manchester City are the favourites to confirm Tevez's capture, having made Joorabchian an offer said to be well in excess of United's.

As the Blues are on the verge of confirming Roque Santa Cruz's £18million arrival from Blackburn, it would represent a major statement of intent for a club also hoping to tie up the signing of Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o.

It leaves United boss Sir Alex Ferguson with a major rebuilding job to do in attack given he is still to secure a replacement for Ronaldo.

Federico Macheda and Danny Welbeck impressed last term and may be expected to have more involvement as United chase an unprecedented fourth successive title.

But Ferguson needs experience as well to compliment Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov, who endured a patchy debut season at Old Trafford following his club record £30.75million arrival from Tottenham.

Karim Benzema and Franck Ribery have both been spoken of as potential targets, although there is no guarantee either will come.

And while Antonio Valencia's £18million arrival from Wigan should eventually go through, his lack of goalscoring prowess is a worry.

With Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Edwin van der Sar about to embark on what many think will be their final seasons in top flight football and memories of a comprehensive Champions League final defeat to Barcelona last month still fresh, Ferguson clearly has some unwanted headaches seven weeks ahead of the opening Premier League game against Birmingham.