Abby Brammell

By Joe Bernstein

Top of the pots: Wayne Rooney scored twice against Wigan in the 2006 final for his first major trophy success


For the Manchester United players who gathered just after 3pm at Wilmslow station yesterday to begin the journey that will culminate underneath the arch at Wembley Stadium this afternoon, there is no chance of disrespecting the Carling Cup.

This is the tournament that saw the birth of Sir Alex Ferguson's latest and arguably greatest team, the bold decision to drop Ruud van Nistelrooy for the 2006 Carling Cup final against Wigan rewarded with a 4-0 victory that included two goals from Wayne Rooney to earn the England striker his first piece of silverware as a player

The triumph sparked an unprecedented trophy haul that has so far yielded three consecutive Premier League titles and consecutive appearances in the Champions League final.

But just as the Carling Cup final launched a new era at Old Trafford, defeat against Aston Villa this afternoon could signal the beginning of the end.

Attention will be focused as closely off the pitch, where up to 20,000 United fans will wear the green and gold that demonstrates opposition to the club's American owners.

Anti-Glazer banners which are not allowed inside Old Trafford will be on display at Wembley to a worldwide audience.

Ferguson's selection will tell its own story on the pitch. Ideally, he would love to rest Rooney, but instead he may be forced to end up making him captain.

He cannot rely on the other strikers, Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen, while a long line of United skippers are either injured or at the veteran stage, from Gary Neville through Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who is rested.

Ferguson is as lucky as Fabio Capello that he has Rooney, the world's best player on current form, to bail him out if needed.

Just as, fortunately, Rooney believes in the Carling Cup and its role in pushing United to a historic fourth League title in a row.

'This competition was the first silverware I won as a player so I have great memories of the tournament,' said Rooney, who has 27 goals this season and could match Cristiano Ronaldo's incredible tally of 42 two seasons ago.


Wembley winner: Sir Alex Ferguson with the trophy after last year's final win over Tottenham


'This is a game everyone wants to play in - including me. The manager will probably make changes but we know if you win the first trophy of the season, it gives you something to build on.

'The most important one for me is the Premier League. Other people might say the Champions League but to win four League titles in a row and get above Liverpool's record (of 18 for overall titles) would be brilliant.'

Back on February 26, 2006, Rooney was far from being the irresistible force he is now. He turned up for the final against Wigan having failed to score in his previous 12 games.

Even so, Ferguson decided to take one of the boldest decisions of his illustrious career by dropping the established Van Nistelrooy, allowing Rooney and Ronaldo to take centre-stage.

The rest, as they say, is history, and Rooney is in the form of his life.

'I have said for a few years. I wanted to score more goals inside the six-yard box and 90 per cent of my goals have been from there this season,' he said.

'I have scored a few goals from headers as well. I have worked on my heading in the last couple of years and, thankfully, I have a bigger (bald patch on which to head it!

'I'm doing well at the minute, scoring a lot of goals. And the team is playing well. I have always tried to be a leader on the pitch. Even when I was 18, whatever team I played in. If it's not going right, you need to get the crowd right.'

Ferguson has used the Carling Cup in the past 12 months to shoot down pretenders.
Last season, his shadow team beat Tottenham on penalties in the final after a 0-0 draw.

This season, United overcame Manchester City in two thrilling semi-finals. The risk is that if Aston Villa can end the trend today, the knock-on effect might be devastating.

While Ferguson can count his lucky stars he has Rooney, the rest of his squad looks unbalanced after the summer departures of Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez.

Too many are either at the veteran stage, like Paul Scholes, Neville, Giggs, Owen and Van der Sar, or youngsters like Rafael Da Silva, Darron Gibson and Federico Macheda, who are not yet ready.

But midfield dynamo Darren Fletcher is confident United's knowhow and experience of big games will be enough to see off Villa.

'I'm of the opinion that, in the big games especially, that sometimes it's more psychological than about actual ability,' said the combative Scot.

'A big percentage of the game is played in your head and how you deal with the big occasions. I relish that challenge.

'Since we've got our defensive consistency back, the consistency of our performances has improved. The last month was really the time to kick on and we have done that with a string of results and we need to maintain it now.'


source: dailymail

By Daniel King

Snubbed: Wayne Bridge refuses to shake the hand of John Terry


John Terry was snubbed by Wayne Bridge and humiliated by Craig Bellamy as Manchester City blew the title race wide open with a stunning 4-2 victory at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea.

Terry, stripped of the England captaincy after revelations about his relationship with Bridge's former partner, had to suffer the indignity of his former friend and team-mate refusing to shake his hand before kick-off.

Then Bellamy, who shared City's goals with the returning Carlos Tevez, put the boot into Terry's shattered reputation just as ruthlessly as his team had exposed nine-man Chelsea on the counter-attack.

'I know what JT's like,' said Bellamy. 'Nothing surprises me about him. Everyone in football knows what the guy's ike. But that's off the field. On the field, he's an outstanding player and a great captain for Chelsea, and it's always going to be difficult when you play him and his team.'


Rivals: Wayne Bridge goes head to head with John Terry for the first time since revelations about Terry's relationship with Bridge's former partner


But it was a terrible end to another traumatic week for Terry and Chelsea, on and off the pitch, with the apparent collapse of injured defender Ashley Cole's marriage only adding to the air of sleaze. Bridge - who has said he does not want to be picked for England following the stories about Terry and Vanessa Perroncel, the mother of his three-year-old son - went to shake Terry's hand in the traditional line-up before the match only to then pull it away.

Frank Lampard gave Chelsea a deserved lead but Terry, having been at fault for the first of Inter Milan's goals in Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat in Italy, was caught out by the pace of Tevez in first-half stoppage-time.


Heated: Chelsea's John Terry clashes with Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez


The City striker, back after two weeks in Argentina at the bedside of his newborn daughter, scored after a mistake by stand-in goalkeeper Henrique Hilario, who was also at fault for Bellamy's first goal.


source: dailymail

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mBBhHPBFoUendofvid
[starttext]
The five girls of 4minute are back in Korea after taking a tour of Asia to promote their mini album For Muzik.

Appearing on Kim Jung Eun’s Chocolate, the girls got to showcase their individual talents.

With performances ranging from Rihanna to Yangpa, the girls impressed Kim Jung Eun and the audience.

They also gave a slew of introductions in the various languages of the countries they visited. The tour included countries such as Thailand, the Philippines and Taiwan.

4minute’s HyunA also performed her single Change without BEAST’s Junhyung, but had a backup dancer fill in instead.

Check out the show below:




[endtext]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mh3MlMMIaRcendofvid
[starttext]
Even though they only debuted last July, T-ara’s made quite the impression on Korean music listeners everywhere. After their feminine image from Lies, an adorable (and distinctive) image with Bo Peep Bo Peep, these young ladies have undoubtedly redefined “hot” with their repackaged album, I Go Crazy Because of You.

This week, T-ara’s taken it up a notch with their oh-so-sexy performances on M! Countdown, Music Bank and Music Core, but to wrap up their comeback week on Inkigayo, they also gave us a special performance of I’m Really Hurt, an addictive mid-tempo ballad.

With their all white suits and hats, T-ara proved that they could look sexy with a boyish look as well. Unfortunately, the performance of I’m Really Hurt was all too short. From what we could tell though, the choreography’s looking pretty catchy with that addictive tie-tugging move!



For tonight’s performance of I Go Crazy Because of You, T-ara wore black & pink outfits similar to those from Music Core but with a vibrant line pattern on the black parts. Although not as seizure-inducing (and I say that lovingly) as their flashy music video, the stage is filled with hot pink, orange & purple lights and sparkly background tile-things, giving the performance a very modern feel.

You’ve gotta love Jiyeon’s seeexy sneer at 0:16!


[endtext]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgTub1MeKD8endofvid
[starttext]
It’s that time again. Fans get pumped up and excited when idols start promotions, but all good things must eventually come to an end. This time we say goodbye to HyunA and her Change on Inkigayo.

HyunA made her successful debut with group 4minute last year and have since been kicking butt and taking names. Since her solo debut last month, she gave us a good new way to kick start the new year and gave us change we can believe in. She puts on one final flamin’ hot performance so enjoy!

[endtext]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kyAeHYXRDIendofvid
[starttext]
After three days of nonstop awesome, girl group Kara concludes their successful series of comeback stage performances on today’s Inkigayo!

Although the sharp and incredibly polished performances for Lupin will continue for the remainder of their promotional period, performances for their song Umbrella end today. So say “bye bye” to the cute rain boots, trench coat hoodies and belly rub dancing for now and continue to hallo-back with the ladies of Kara! Is it just me or do their stage performances just get better and better? It’s evident how hard these girls have worked to make their comebacks as polished as possible and they are being well rewarded by the roars of fanchants from the crowd!

Prepare to shield your ears from the hearty chants of kamilia when you check out Kara’s performances below!





[endtext]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTk5eYOTnSQendofvid
[starttext]
One, two and number three!

Having made their comeback with Oh! in late January, it took the 9 girls of SNSD just one month to claim the triple crown on Inkigayo and maintaining their position as the top charting/selling girl group in Korea at the moment.

The girls had been up against 2AM’s Can’t Let You Go Even If I Die, CNBLUE’s I’m A Loner, U-Kiss’s Bingeul Bingeul, Kim Jong Kook’s This is the Person, Min Kyung Hoon’s It Hurts Because It’s Love and 4men’s I Can’t for Take 7 this week but they eventually prevailed against all the other singers.

The girls weren’t around on Inkigayo this afternoon though to receive their trophy as they were preparing for their encore concert, scheduled at almost the same time.


With SNSD maxing out their quota of wins, a new winner will be crowned next week. Who will it be? Stay tuned to allkpop same time next week to find out.
[endtext]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAd6qbjvJB8endofvid
[starttext]
This was coming frankly.

Coming soon after all the controversy revolving around Jaebeom’s contract termination and the ensuing drama, 2PM’s Taecyeon and Wooyoung made their first public appearance on February 28th, hosting Inkigayo with f(x)’s Sulli.

All eyes were on them this afternoon and the duo did not appear too perturbed by events that has happened in the last 72 hours as they hosted the show with their usual bubbly selves, especially during interviews with Heechul, T-ara and Kara.

Straight after the show though, two camps of opinions surfaced on the bulletin boards of the Inkigayo website, over Taecyeon and Wooyoung’s appearance.

Some felt uncomfortable watching them hosting like nothing has happened at all and were behaving like normal. Others felt disappointed and said that they felt betrayed and sad over their actions. Those who were for them said that they can’t be looking sad for a live broadcast and some expressed that life must go on.




[endtext]

By Niall Firth

No thanks: Bridge walks past the man who had an affair with his former partner


Footballer Wayne Bridge refused to shake hands with John Terry today when he came face to face with him for the first time since it emerged his former teammate had an affair with his ex-girlfriend.

There was huge interest in how the pair would behave towards one another ahead of the game between Chelsea and Manchester City at Stamford Bridge, west London,
As the off-pitch tension built up in the wake of allegations about Terry and lingerie model Vanessa Perroncel, the mother of Bridge's three-year-old son, City player Bridge made his feelings clear by snubbing the Fair Play handshake courtesy to Terry.

As Terry, 29, stood in line with his Chelsea teammates, he held out his hand as Bridge filed past with his fellow Manchester City players.


Referee Mike Dean, right, pays close attention to whether Bridge will shake the Chelsea captain's hand


But while Bridge, also 29, shook hands with the rest of his opponents, he walked past Terry without making any contact.

The ritual was introduced by the Premier League two seasons ago as part of the Get On With The Game campaign to encourage acceptable behaviour.

Such was the interest in the interaction between Terry and Bridge that Sky Sports viewers were able to see the crucial moments before kick-off.

Usually, the broadcaster would screen adverts during the routine and return to the pitch for the main action.

But timings were altered to make sure nothing was missed.Before the game, Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti said he did not expect the atmosphere to affect his captain


Shake-up: John Terry looks down as Wayne Bridge ignores his invitation to shake hands... everyone else is watching as well


He said: 'John Terry is professional and doesn't have a problem in staying focused on the match.

'He has been doing good performances. He is in focus and has a good mentality.

'He has had a fantastic season and will do the same until the end of the season.'

City manager Roberto Mancini urged defender Bridge to concentrate on the match, which came just 48 hours after he withdrew from England's World Cup plans.

He said: 'He is a strong character, who has a strong mentality.'

Bridge's defiance comes in the wake of revelations about the Chelsea captain's affair with Bridge's ex-partner Perroncell.

The defender refused to play alongside Terry in the England team at this summer’s tournament in South Africa.

And today sources close to Terry claimed that Bridge was known as a 'bottler' in the Chelsea dressing room.

Bridge made his decision after it became clear that Terry was not showing any remorse for his affair with French model Perroncell.

Bridge claimed his presence within the national squad was 'untenable and potentially divisive'


Kissing and making-up for cameras: John Terry's stage-managed reconciliation with his forgiving and long-suffering wife Toni by the pool at a luxury Dubai hotel


Terry was stripped of the national team captaincy after lurid allegations were published and it remains to be seen how both players will react when the two players meet for the first time.

William Hill are offering 4/6 they are seen shaking hands at any point on Sky Sports and 11/10 they do not complete that courtesy.

It is it is 7/2 for every City player to snub Terry before the match.

'Given the Bridge announcement it looks more likely that the pair will shake each other warmly by the throat than by the hand - even though etiquette demands the latter,' said William Hill's spokesman Graham Sharpe.

Bridge's decision will fuel criticism that modern footballers — as well as being overpaid — lack the passion and professionalism of former players – although many observers will no doubt feel sympathy for him.

Bridge, 29, was likely to be selected after his fellow defender Ashley Cole was ruled out for three months with a broken ankle.

But he spurned the chance, saying: ‘It has always been an honour to play for England.

However, after careful thought I believe my position in the squad is now untenable and potentially divisive.

‘Sadly therefore I feel for the sake of the team and to avoid what will be inevitable distractions I have decided not to put myself forward for selection. I wish the team the very best in South Africa.’

Bridge did not rule out a return to international football if Terry were to be dropped.

The married father-of-two has already been stripped of the England captaincy over his affair with Bridge’s ex-girlfriend, French lingerie model Vanessa Perroncel.

England manager Fabio Capello and players’ union chief Gordon Taylor attempted to reconcile the two men.

Today Perroncell told the Sun that she that she thought Bridge had made a 'bring mistake' in giving up his place on the England squad.

Perroncell's publicist Max Clifford said: ‘Vanessa is very upset at what Wayne has said and that he has made this decision. She believes it’s the wrong one.’


Happier times: Cheryl Cole and Vanessa Perroncel during a break in the south of France in June 2009


He added: ‘I’d have assumed that Wayne Bridge and John Terry would have sorted out their differences man-to-man.

‘Can you imagine if we miss out or lose the World Cup because of having someone at left back who isn’t up to it?’

Bridge is due before the family division of Epsom County Court on March 25 for a hearing to decide how much he must pay Miss Perroncel.

He is expected to argue his regular payments for their son should be cut because of her indiscretions.

His lawyers are expected to demand to know Miss Perroncel’s income – including any pay-off from Terry to stop her from selling her story.

The sorry mess behind the beautiful gameThis is a timeline of events leading up to today's match which could see Wayne Bridge and John Terry come face to face for the first time since it was revealed the former England captain had an affair with Bridge's ex-girlfriend.

January 29
Terry is named as the sportsman behind a gagging injunction involving his private life.

January 30
The 29-year-old Chelsea and England captain, who is married to childhood sweetheart Toni and is the father of twins, refuses to talk about allegations he had an affair with French underwear model Vanessa Perroncel, Bridge's ex-girlfriend.

Bridge, who moved from Chelsea to Manchester City last year, also said he would not comment on the speculation.

January 31
Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe says if the allegations against Terry are proven they call into question his role as England captain.

February 1
Perroncel's publicist Max Clifford confirms she has been offered £250,000 to tell her side of the story.

February 5
Terry loses his job as England captain following a meeting with Capello.

The same afternoon Ms Perroncel makes a statement through publicist Max Clifford saying she will not sell her story as it might 'add more fuel to the fire' and does not believe it is in her or her son's interests.

As she makes her statement news breaks of Terry's fate. She appears open-mouthed and says: 'Oh my God... he's been dropped.'

February 10
Chelsea announce Terry will be allowed to miss their FA Cup match to take some time off and join his wife in Dubai at the weekend.

February 11
It is revealed Chelsea fullback Ashley Cole has broken his ankle and will be out for three months. Bridge, as Cole's long-time understudy, is the favourite to replace him but this would mean him playing in the same team as Terry, as soon as the March 3 friendly against Egypt.

February 13
John Terry's wife insisted they were a 'strong couple' despite the former England captain's alleged affair.

The 29-year-old was pictured kissing and cuddling his wife as the couple relaxed with their two children by the pool of a five-star hotel.

Speaking to The Sun, Terry said: 'The pictures say more than words can say about how we are as a couple.'

Two days later they return to the UK hand in hand.

February 25
Bridge says his position in the England squad is 'untenable and potentially divisive' following reports and events of recent weeks. He said: 'Sadly therefore I feel for the sake of the team and in order to avoid what will be inevitable distractions, I have decided not to put myself forward for selection. I have today informed the management of this decision. I wish the team all the very best in South Africa.'

February 27
Manchester City travel to Stamford Bridge to play Chelsea. The game could see the two former teammates face each for the first time since the scandal erupted.


source: dailymail

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXkYIt9rkkgendofvid
[starttext]
HyunA was back on Music Core on the afternoon of February 27th as she performed her hit single, Change.

It may have been some time since the single was released but with HyunA globetrotting all over the place for promotions with her 4minute members, it was nice to see her back on stage for some change. But unfortunately for everyone, this is her goodbye stage

Her 4minute members were not sitting idly as they were performing during the half-time show for the K-League opener between Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i and Gyeongnam FC at the Ulsan World Cup Stadium.

Her 4minute members were not sitting idly as they were performing during the half-time show for the K-League opener between Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i and Gyeongnam FC at the Ulsan World Cup Stadium.



[endtext]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pa0ypR31AQMendofvid
[starttext]
There was a surprise on the February 27th episode of Music Core as SNSD revealed their encore concert stage.

The girls will be having their encore concerts this weekend at the Seoul Olympic Park’s Fencing Stadium and a sneak preview was offered this afternoon and explains why the stage was much bigger than what we are used to seeing on Music Core.

Their encore concerts will be their first major concert after their comeback with Oh! and thus new songs from their new album will also be performed on stage.
[endtext]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vHyf4G_sOwendofvid
[starttext]
In 'Perfect Little Accident', Derek finds Sloan banging someone in the closet room, gets inside a conflict with a co-worker and watches as his staff mess up.

A series of mishaps, especially surrounding Derek is the theme of "Grey's Anatomy" episode next week. First he sees what he's not supposed to see, then he gets into tension with Richard, before witnessing his staff fighting with each other and again, accidentally seeing what he's not supposed to see.

When famous surgeon Dr. Harper Avery is rushed to Seattle Grace-Mercy West, the staff is surprised to discover that one of their own is related to this legend, and his unorthodox request for his surgery causes tensions between Derek and Richard. Meanwhile Callie and Arizona try to help Teddy and Sloan move on from their pasts and find greener pastures.

After a week of break, "Grey's Anatomy" is back with "Perfect Little Accident" on March 4.
[endtext]

By Sportsmail Reporter

Downward spiral: Murdoch's men passed up a golden opportunity


David Murdoch's gold medal dream lay in tatters at the Vancouver Olympic Centre after Great Britain's men's curlers were knocked out of the competition in a 7-6 extra end play-off defeat by Sweden.

The defeat ends any hope the reigning world champions had of edging into a semi-final match against favourites Canada on Thursday, which would at the very least have given them the chance of a play-off for bronze.

Murdoch's men never recovered from a nightmare start when Euan Byers missed a routine take-out in the first end allowing the sharp young Swedish skip Niklas Edin to patiently play out for a 2-0 lead.

Another missed take-out, this time by Murdoch in the third end, restored Sweden's two-shot advantage and a fractional fifth end miss which gave Sweden back the hammer and forced Murdoch's men to chase the game throughout.

Murdoch clawed back the deficit by winning three straight ends against the hammer - but a brilliant double take-out by Edin in the ninth forced the extra end which the Swedes duly won with the hammer.

It is the second consecutive crushing Olympic disappointment for Murdoch and his team. They went to Turin as favourites only to lose the bronze medal play-off, and once again were destined to leave the biggest stage with nothing.


source: dailymail

Showdown: Terry and Bridge (right) meet for the first time since it was revealed the Chelsea star had an affair with the ex-girlfriend of his fellow defender


Wayne Bridge will play for Manchester City at Chelsea.

Although Bridge pulled out of the World Cup, City boss Roberto Mancini feels he is in the right frame to play at Stamford Bridge - and face John Terry.

'I think Wayne is okay,' said Mancini. 'I don't know what has happened in the last two weeks but I am sorry for him.

But mentally he is fine. He is an important player for us and we want him to play.'

Only a fortnight ago Mancini expressed confidence that Bridge would go to South Africa, despite the obvious issues with Terry over his affair with Vanessa Perroncel, the mother of Bridge's young son.

So it came as a shock to both Mancini and England coach Fabio Capello when Bridge released his statement yesterday saying that his position within the Three Lions fold was now 'untenable'.

'I thought Wayne would stay with the national team,' said Mancini. 'It must have been a very difficult decision because I know how important the national team is for any player.

'He didn't speak to me before he made the decision. I don't know what has changed, but he has changed his decision because I thought that he would play for the national team. But I respect what he has done.

'It is not affecting the club or the dressing room. He is a strong character, who has a strong mentality.'

Mancini skirted the issue of whether Terry should be the one backing out of the England set-up, and could shed no light either on whether Bridge will shake Terry's hand in traditional pre-match fashion.

'Wayne must only think about the game,' said Mancini. 'He is a very good player and a good man. I hope he will play well tomorrow.

'But it is difficult for me to speak about this whole situation. I have respect for Wayne and his family, so I don't want to say any more.'

Meanwhile, Mancini confirmed City would not appeal against the red card shown to Emmanuel Adebayor at Stoke on Wednesday.

It means Adebayor will be banned for four games, starting at Chelsea, the additional match coming as a result of his previous suspension for violent conduct when he stamped on Robin van Persie earlier this season.

The one piece of good news for City was confirmation that Carlos Tevez has arrived in London and will be reunited with his team-mates later this afternoon.

Mancini will assess the Argentina star's fitness before deciding whether to name Tevez in his starting line-up at Stamford Bridge.
end


source: dailymail

Dark clouds: Fratton Park could soon be hosting Championship football


Portsmouth have been sucked down the Premier League plughole after they are docked nine points for going into administration.

The cash-strapped club have been unable to find a new buyer and administration will see them plummet down to just SEVEN points - all but confirming their relegation to the Championship.

A statement on the club's website revealed the club entered administration at 10.20am. The administrators will hold a press conference at 3pm.

Under-fire chief executive Peter Storrie has said he will tender his resignation when the administrators sell the club.

Portsmouth will be left 17 points from safety with just 12 games remaining this season. Andrew Andronikou, of Hacker Young, will be installed as chief administrator, triggering a meeting of the Premier League board early next week to ratify the nine-point deduction.

The winding-up process started by HM Revenue and Customs, due before the High Court next week, will be suspended automatically.


Hard times: Portsmouth are in crisis


Pompey must enter a Company Voluntary Agreement for unsecured creditors by the end of the season or start next season with another deduction of at least 15 points.

The new reality will start when the players fly on budget airline Flybe for �47.99 each to the game at Burnley tomorrow.

Yet, the 112-year-old club have a better chance of survival, with four potential buyers circling, waiting for administration.

Owner Balram Chainrai, who was persuaded to invest £17million by predecessor Ali Al Faraj, has agreed to keep funding the club and pay for administration.

'Having the club wound up is not an option as far as we're concerned,' said spokesman Phil Hall. 'The partners have put £17m into the club and have a responsibility to ensure Portsmouth FC survive.'


Rage: An angry fan confront chief executive Peter Storrie on Friday


A major sell-off of players and the prospect of a long period of rebuilding in the Championship now looms.

Some finance experts believe the administrator may have to terminate player contracts now to save cash.

Simon Wilson, partner of restructuring experts, Zolfo Cooper, said: 'It seems certain that Portsmouth will be relegated and will need a complete restructure.

'Depending on the level of committed funding available the administrator may need to terminate players' contracts to reduce outgoings because the possibility of selling players outside of the transfer window has already been denied by the Premier League.'


Loyal: Portsmouth fans have watched their side slump this season


Meanwhile, FIFA are set to discuss Portsmouth's plight at their next executive committee meeting on March 18.

Today's news was expected after eight days which signalled the club's fate. Last Thursday they asked the Premier League for permission to sell players outside the transfer window, which was rejected two days later.

On Sunday chief executive Peter Storrie revealed a South African consortium were pursuing a deal to Portsmouth - but nothing came of it.

Current owner Balram Chainrai confirmed the club would go into administration if they did not find a buyer by today - and despite New Zealand-based businessman Victor Cattermole admitting his interest in buying the club, a deal was not done in time


High times: Pompey won the FA Cup in 2002

Chainrai's spokesman, Phil Hall, said: 'He hasn't made a penny out of the club. He was asked in October to put in £17m as a loan, for six weeks, and he agreed to do that.

'At the end of six weeks he expected his money to be returned and that didn't happen. He gave them a bit of a grace period but the loan wasn't repaid so in January he took over the shares of the club. He put another £2m in this week to make sure the staff were paid.'

Asked how Pompey ended up in administration, Hall continued: 'The club's debt is too great. He (Chainrai) was also given false promises when he came in. He was told the club had certain debts but didn't know that Premier League rules say football debts become a priority, that money owed on transfers must be paid first.

'He asked the questions and was given answers and assurances that turned out not to be true. Having put £17million of his own money in unfortunately he found the club
facing a winding-up order on Monday.

'He had a choice of allowing the club to go into administration, for someone to go in and try to bring it back into a stronger financial position. He feels he's a victim - the club have been overwhelmed by these debts and he is a reluctant owner.'

However, Hall believes there could be a satisfactory outcome for Chainrai and the club.

He added: 'He's been left holding the baby but he wants to do what's right...he feels this is the right solution. Buying a business with a huge debt around its neck is not an attractive proposition - but there are parties who say they are interested. Some of them may be interested if they are on a stronger financial footing.'


source: dailymail

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlzS2EY1WnAendofvid
[starttext]
Amidst all of the JYPE-related gloom & doom that has been emerging as of late, our friends at WG Spectacle Forums recently held an international project to send the Wonder Girls‘ member Sunmi a message before her upcoming departure to Korea. Wonderfuls from all over the world banded together to complete a positive, united message to the beloved 4D with balloons, photos, notes and a video collage that captured the entire experience.



After Sunmi’s last performance at POP-CON last week, Wonderfuls at WG Spec gathered over five hundred messages and tied them to 150 purple hearts, then placed them in front JYPE’s New York City office to show their support.

“To us you will always be a part of WG!” one fan from Brazil wrote in her note. “We will support your decision no matter what. What matters is that you are happy. We’ll always love you!” Another fan from Thailand said, “Even though I don’t want you to leave, I respect your decision. I hope you will be happy with your decision & studies.” Others promised to save the world with Sunmi in the future together, and others reminded her to keep smiling and stay happy with her decision.



Notes were written in English & Korean by fans both in Korea and places all over the world, including the States, Spain, Peru, the UK, Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Thailand, Hungary and more. One amazing Wonderful even flew in from Japan for this event.









150 balloons, 500+ worldwide messages, and one beloved 4D. Sunmi, we’re going to miss you – have a safe trip to Korea and make sure to make the most of your studies!

Thanks to Matt for providing the information & media.


[endtext]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nSVfMplwC4endofvid
[starttext]
Leak: A torrent of water gushes out of the giant Dubai Mall aquarium after a crack opens up in the glass


Part of the vast Dubai Mall has been evacuated after its giant aquarium developed a leak, a police official said today.

The aquarium, one of the largest tanks in the world at 167ft by 66ft, has hundreds of living animals including Sand Tiger sharks and rays.

It is thought to have developed a crack and a witness said people in part of the mall were evacuated and dozens of emergency vehicles were outside.

The police official, who declined to be identified, said: 'There was a small problem, a simple crack, and the water leaked.'

Six divers entered the tank and appeared to be coordinating with workers outside the glass, while workers mopped up water from the floor.

Emaar's chairman Mohammed Alabbar denied there was a leak in the aquarium, saying there was a 'technical fault in the operating device,' according to a statement carried on the country's official news agency WAM.


Emergency crews are seen arriving at Dubai Mall following the incident


Security personnel inside the mall after it was evacuated when water started gushing out of the aquarium


But a witness said water had been leaking from a crack in the aquarium glass.

'I saw a small crack in the aquarium glass and there was a little water coming out and a lot of water on the floor,' said Ranjin, a 27-year old corporate secretary.

'The police came and evacuated the area around the aquarium.'

Dubai Aquarium is planning to have more than 33,000 animals representing more than 85 species in the giant tank.

It also features an underwater zoo which has penguins, seals, crocodiles and water rats among its attractions.

It is operated by Emaar Properties and also features the world's largest acrylic viewing panel.
One million people had already visited the aquarium seven months after it had opened.


Visitors view the huge aquarium in Dubai Mall (file photo)


This is the latest in a string of problems for the aquarium.

Shortly before its opening in October 2008, over ten per cent of the sharks in the tank were been killed in attacks that marred the build-up to its unveiling.

Sand Tiger sharks killed at least 40 smaller reef sharks and were aggressive towards divers working on final preparations in the giant tank.

Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping mall by total area, contains around 600 retailers and had over 37 million visitors in its first year of operation.

It now has an average of 750,000 visitors every week. As well as shops and restaurants, the Mall also contains an ice rink and cinema.

Emaar Properties, the Arab world's largest developer, came under scrutiny earlier this month when it closed the observation deck at Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest tower and the firm's flagship project, just a month after its fanfare opening.
[endtext]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAJOs3XkTYQendofvid
[starttext]
By Claire Bates

The world's first factory making space-age JET PACKS is going into production. It can travel at 60MPH for 30 miles


It is the perfect way for city high-fliers to miss the morning rush hour. A company is set to produce the first commercial JETPACKS - and one could be yours for just £50,000.

The traffic jam-beating packs will be manufactured after a multi-million pound deal was signed with an international aircraft company this week.

Martin Aircraft Company, in Christchurch, New Zealand, aims to make 500 packs a year allowing first-person propulsion through the skies for commuters.

The 200 horsepower dual-propeller packs can travel at 60mph for up to 30miles on a full tank of fuel. They have been reached heights of 7,800ft in tests.

At 250lbs when empty, the jet pack is not heavy enough to require a pilot's licence, although users will take part in a Martin Jetpack training programme.
However, the gadget is not environmentally friendly burning 10 gallons of fuel per hour - five times as much as the average car.

The 5ft by 5.5ft device is the brainchild of Kiwi inventor Glenn Martin who unveiled his machine for the first time in July last year.

While jetpacks are traditionally powered by jets of escaping gases, the new device uses a gas engine with two ducted fans to provide lift.

Pitch and roll are controlled by one hand, yaw and the throttle by the other.
Martin Aircraft Company chief executive Richard Lauder said the pack could be perfect for the emergency services, private users and even the military.


You won't need a pilot's licence to fly with this jetpack


Mr Lauder said: 'This could be life-saving stuff. For us this is an excellent commercial step.'

The device has safety features to combat the inherent dangers of flying through the air. It has both an internal roll cage to protect the pilot from side impact and a a ballistic parachute system that works at low altitudes.

Jetpacks first emerged in science fiction in the 1920s and were tested by the U.S military by the 1960s, but have never 'taken-off' commercially.

Astronauts on the International Space Station wear rocket packs during space walks called a 'Safer.' This can be used in emergencies should they become detached from the station.
[endtext]

Take two: Mascherano got stuck in during the first leg at Anfield and the midfielder is determined to finish the job in Romania


Javier Mascherano feels a successful Europa League campaign can help Liverpool finish in the top four of the Premier League.

Europe's second club competition has plenty of critics but Argentina midfielder Mascherano is paying no attention to the doubters.

The Reds are in Romania to defend a 1-0 lead over Unirea Urziceni in the second leg of their last-32 tie and Mascherano believes a winning run in the competition can only help Rafa Benitez's side qualify for the Champions League next time around

He told Liverpool's website: 'We have the confidence to do well. We had a good run before the Arsenal game (1-0 defeat) when we went seven matches in a row without losing. We were playing good football and we had the belief to do well.

'We'll try to do our best to win this competition. This is the only trophy we have a chance of winning and so we'll have to think about doing our best.

'It's a really important game for us. It's important for us to go through and continue in the competition.

'The good news is that we have key players like Yossi (Benayoun) and Fernando (Torres) back now. They are going to be important to us as are all the players between now and the end of the season.'


source: dailymail

Hammer blow! Anderson ruptured his cruciate ligament in United's win over West Ham


Manchester United midfielder Anderson will to fly Portugal in a fortnight for an operation to repair the ruptured cruciate ligament which has ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

The Brazil international suffered the injury during United's 3-0 win over West Ham on Tuesday.

Anderson was making his first appearance since the Carling Cup tie at Manchester City last month when he crumpled in agony during the first half at Old Trafford.

It was immediately obvious there was a serious problem and although the former Porto star tried to continue, he was forced to abandon that plan within minutes.
Anderson went for a scan on Wednesday, with Sir Alex Ferguson confirming the season-ending injury.

'The real bad news is that Anderson has a cruciate knee injury,' said the United boss. 'He will be out for the rest of the season. It is a bad blow.'

Prior to the game against West Ham, Anderson revealed he had spent time in Brazil considering his future at Old Trafford, after failing to secure a regular place in the United side.


Six-month lay-off: Anderson will not feature in this summer's World Cup


But Ferguson had the player in mind for a starting spot in the Champions League tie with AC Milan at Old Trafford on March 10, when Michael Carrick will be suspended.

Now, both options are ruled out, with Ferguson hoping Anderson is back for the start of next season.

'He was looking forward to the match on Tuesday and he was showing great energy to do well,' reflected Ferguson.

'It is a bit of a blow to us, particularly with the AC Milan game coming up because Michael Carrick is suspended.


Suspended: Carrick will miss the second leg after he was sent off in the San Siro


'It is strange, when you see cruciate injuries it is usually something simple. He stretched out for the ball and his knee just popped.

'We have assessed the situation and know he needs the operation. That will be done in two weeks' time in Portugal once the swelling has gone down. Sometimes we have sent them to Dr Steadman in Colorado. In this instance he is comfortable with the surgeon he has dealt with in Portugal in the past.

'He will be out for six months and hopefully that should have him about right for the new season.'


source: dailymail

Stepping out: Wayne Bridge has made himself unavailable for the England squad


Wayne Bridge has pulled himself out of contention for England and the World Cup after revelations over John Terry's affair with his former partner.

In a statement released by his lawyers. Manchester City left-back Bridge said his position in the squad is 'untenable and potentially divisive' and he has decided to make himself unavailable for selection.


It leaves Fabio Capello without both his first-choice left-backs for Wednesday's friendly with Egypt, with Chelsea's Ashley Cole sidelined by a long-term injury, but more alarmingly this summer's World Cup which Bridge has confirmed he will not play in.

He said: 'Sadly, for the sake of the team and what would be inevitable distractions, I have decided not to put myself forward for selection.
'I have thought long and hard about my position in the England football team in the light of the reporting and events over the last few weeks and have today informed the management of this decision.

'I wish the team all the best in South Africa.'

The move comes after lurid details about a relationship between Bridge's former partner Vanessa Perroncel and Chelsea defender John Terry came to light last month.

Bridge played with Terry for Chelsea and England but was left shocked when he discovered his team-mate had an affair with his former partner. It occurred after Bridge's move to Manchester City just over a year ago.

Terry was ultimately stripped of the England captaincy by Capello, who earlier this week spoke of his optimism that Bridge would continue to play for his country.

However, after a lot of soul searching, the 29-year-old feels it is an impossible situation for him to contemplate, after Sportsmail exclusively revealed today that defender will not shake Terry's hand when the pair clash at Stamford Bridge this weekend in their first encounter since the revelations appeared.


'Potentially divisive': Bridge has rejected the chance to play alongside Terry


It was the delicate balancing act Capello knew he was carrying out when he
retained Terry in his squad whilst removing the coveted armband.

The Italian hoped Bridge would remain involved and was scheduled to see both men in action on Saturday, when Chelsea entertain Manchester City.

Roberto Mancini spoke about the certainty of Bridge's return to the England fold but there was always a feeling the full-back held a different opinion.

News that he would not even shake Terry's hand prior to this weekend's game hardly gave credence to the belief any clear differences could be patched up.

As Bridge has not formally announced his retirement from international
football, it can only be concluded that he would consider a return should Terry
not be involved.


Woman trouble: Bridge's ex Vanessa Perroncel had an affair with John Terry


Terry must now carry with him the additional burden of knowing his own actions have resulted in someone he used to class as a close friend missing the biggest tournament any professional can be involved in.

Quite apart from dealing with that fall-out, Capello must find himself alternatives at left-back given Ashley Cole is presently ruled out for three months with a broken ankle.

Attention will immediately fall on Everton's Leighton Baines, who has yet to win a senior cap but has been in outstanding form for his club, and Aston Villa's Stephen Warnock.

Warnock, 28, was named in Capello's squad for the recent friendly defeat to Brazil but his only international experience amounts to six minutes as a substitute against Trinidad and Tobago in June 2008.

However, the England coach will get to see him in action during Sunday's Carling Cup final between Aston Villa and Manchester United at Wembley and, unless Capello decided to shunt Joleon Lescott into a full-back role, he would be the favourite to face Egypt.


source: dailymail