By Tim Nudd
(People.com) -- The nudity in HBO's "True Blood" might seem risqué to American audiences, but Anna Paquin, who was born in Canada and grew up in New Zealand, doesn't really see what the fuss is about.
Anna Paquin was all smiles at the second season premiere of HBO's "True Blood" in June.
Anna Paquin was all smiles at the second season premiere of HBO's "True Blood" in June.
"I don't think a naked body is particularly shocking or interesting," the 27-year-old "True Blood" star told Nylon for its September issue.
"It's not the culture I was raised in," Paquin said. "I was not brought up in the United States. I don't share the [attitude] that you can have graphic violence, but -- God forbid -- you see someone's nipples."
It helps that Paquin, who plays Sookie Stackhouse on the show, has her nude scenes with Stephen Moyer, to whom she became engaged this summer.
"You're not having to sort of get over the 'Wow, I'm naked with someone that I don't even know the middle name of!' " she told AOL Television recently.
Paquin also told Nylon that it's been interesting to see how people approach her now that she's gone blonde for the role.
"I don't look like a Barbie doll, and probably never will," she says. "People are incredibly literal in how they view you. You have dark hair and pale skin? You must be brooding. The second you dye your hair blonde and get a spray tan, people treat you as if you're a bit stupider and happier. Suddenly, it's like you're hot and sexy."
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Wenger to get an apology after sending off
By Soccernet staff
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been told he can expect an apology from Premier League referees chief Keith Hackett following his dismissal in the closing seconds of Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Manchester United.
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Wenger takes up an unusual position after his dismissal.
League Managers Association chief executive Richard Bevan has spoken to Hackett about the Old Trafford incident which saw Wenger sent to the stands by referee Mike Dean on the advice of fourth official Lee Probert.
And he has been told that Wenger will receive an apology from the Premier Game Match Officials Board which appoints officials to top-flight games in England.
The Gunners boss caught Probert's attention when he kicked an empty water bottle down the touchline following a disallowed goal for Arsenal.
There was then confusion as Wenger seemed unaware of where he was supposed to go - moving first to the back of Arsenal dugout then starting to walk down the touchline as the whistle was blown.
On the decision to penalise Wenger, Bevan said: ''Although correct in 'law', it was completely out of context in the game and it was followed by the nonsense which followed over where Arsene Wenger should sit.''
He added: ''I've spoken to Keith Hackett and he fully recognises the situation was an error and an apology will follow to Arsene Wenger.
''Lee Probert totally failed to manage the situation and created a needless pressure point taking the focus away from the pitch in a big event with only a minute to go.''
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been told he can expect an apology from Premier League referees chief Keith Hackett following his dismissal in the closing seconds of Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Manchester United.
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Wenger takes up an unusual position after his dismissal.
League Managers Association chief executive Richard Bevan has spoken to Hackett about the Old Trafford incident which saw Wenger sent to the stands by referee Mike Dean on the advice of fourth official Lee Probert.
And he has been told that Wenger will receive an apology from the Premier Game Match Officials Board which appoints officials to top-flight games in England.
The Gunners boss caught Probert's attention when he kicked an empty water bottle down the touchline following a disallowed goal for Arsenal.
There was then confusion as Wenger seemed unaware of where he was supposed to go - moving first to the back of Arsenal dugout then starting to walk down the touchline as the whistle was blown.
On the decision to penalise Wenger, Bevan said: ''Although correct in 'law', it was completely out of context in the game and it was followed by the nonsense which followed over where Arsene Wenger should sit.''
He added: ''I've spoken to Keith Hackett and he fully recognises the situation was an error and an apology will follow to Arsene Wenger.
''Lee Probert totally failed to manage the situation and created a needless pressure point taking the focus away from the pitch in a big event with only a minute to go.''
Friday, August 28, 2009
PREMIER LEAGUE: Terry buoyed by comeback victory over Hull
John Terry believes Chelsea's fighting mentality will ensure they have a great season after seeing his side open their Premier League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Hull.
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The Blues fought back from a goal down to take all three points on the opening day of the season on Saturday.
And Terry is confident this will be Chelsea's year.
He told Chelsea TV: "From a club point of view to see us come back from a goal down and fight and the spirit we showed together with the performance and the drive, well it's really good to see.
"And the belief as well among the squad that this year is going to be a really good year for us. And judging on the result and the performance and the chances we created it could be a good year.''
Chelsea should have beaten Phil Brown's men by a bigger margin but an inspirational display from Hull goalkeeper Boaz Myhill kept the Blues at bay.
Terry admits they got frustrated at times and that they could have done better.
"We went a little bit long too early,'' continued the Chelsea captain. "Seven or eight of their players are over six foot two and that's how they wanted us to play.
"We played into their hands a little bit. We should have kept it down kept the ball on the floor, have confidence in our own ability.
"It was disappointing (to go a goal down) but good to come back and fight again. There's a good fight and good spirit among the lads and that's how it's been pre-season.''
Didier Drogba scored both Chelsea goals, the first a a stunning free-kick from 25 yards and then a stoppage-time winner.
It was the perfect way for the Ivory Coast striker to celebrate signing a new contract recently and Terry is delighted with Drogba's decision to stay.
"When he plays at the top of his game he's the best in the whole world, in Europe, everywhere,'' Terry added. "He creates chances, that was a great finish from the free-kick, he holds it up really well, links up really well, puts himself about and fights for cause.
"In the dressing room he speaks his opinion.
"He's really good to have around and he's a major signing for us this year.''
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The Blues fought back from a goal down to take all three points on the opening day of the season on Saturday.
And Terry is confident this will be Chelsea's year.
He told Chelsea TV: "From a club point of view to see us come back from a goal down and fight and the spirit we showed together with the performance and the drive, well it's really good to see.
"And the belief as well among the squad that this year is going to be a really good year for us. And judging on the result and the performance and the chances we created it could be a good year.''
Chelsea should have beaten Phil Brown's men by a bigger margin but an inspirational display from Hull goalkeeper Boaz Myhill kept the Blues at bay.
Terry admits they got frustrated at times and that they could have done better.
"We went a little bit long too early,'' continued the Chelsea captain. "Seven or eight of their players are over six foot two and that's how they wanted us to play.
"We played into their hands a little bit. We should have kept it down kept the ball on the floor, have confidence in our own ability.
"It was disappointing (to go a goal down) but good to come back and fight again. There's a good fight and good spirit among the lads and that's how it's been pre-season.''
Didier Drogba scored both Chelsea goals, the first a a stunning free-kick from 25 yards and then a stoppage-time winner.
It was the perfect way for the Ivory Coast striker to celebrate signing a new contract recently and Terry is delighted with Drogba's decision to stay.
"When he plays at the top of his game he's the best in the whole world, in Europe, everywhere,'' Terry added. "He creates chances, that was a great finish from the free-kick, he holds it up really well, links up really well, puts himself about and fights for cause.
"In the dressing room he speaks his opinion.
"He's really good to have around and he's a major signing for us this year.''
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
PREMIER LEAGUE: It's "foolish" to dismiss Man City, insists Sir Alex
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes it would be "foolish'' to rule out a title challenge from Manchester City this season.
Sir Alex could see City being a danger
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Sir Alex could see City being a danger
City are likely to take their summer spending above £100m before the transfer window closes at the end of the month, and Sir Alex believes that kind of spending cannot be ignored.
Mark Hughes appears to have made some astute signings with Emmanuel Adebayor taking just three minutes to score on his debut in a 2-0 win at Blackburn Rovers on the opening day.
Sir Alex believes there are parallels with the big spending of Roman Abramovich when he first arrived in the Premier League, which led to back-to-back titles for the west London outfit.
But he was quick to point out that he does not fear his rivals from across the city at all.
"It would be foolish to ignore developments at Eastlands,'' said Ferguson. "Manchester City do pose a new threat. We have only to look at how well Chelsea did with back-to-back championships after a massive injection of Russian cash to know money can talk.
"All the leading clubs are looking with interest to see how Mark Hughes handles the situation and whether he can make it work.
"We are all looking over our shoulders, though as far as Manchester United are concerned, it is not in fear.''
Ferguson was also quick to praise striker Wayne Rooney after he netted the only goal of the game against Birmingham City on Sunday.
"If you have two or three strikers who can get you 20 it stands you in good stead.'' said Ferguson. "Wayne Rooney is well capable of that.
"I know some of our supporters are still worried that I have not bought a megastar to replace Cristiano. They are concerned because they can't quite work out how we are going to compensate for all the goals Cristiano used to get for us.
"But I am more than happy with our squad and although we have lost a major player, I believe we are on the threshold of a very exciting era for Manchester United.''
There was no argument from Alex McLeish, whose team turned in a creditable performance, without ever quite getting to grips with Rooney's threat. He was also full of praise for Rooney.
"We have seen so many natural footballers over the years, people like Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo, they are difficult to coach. You can do one or two things in terms of the shape of the team but when he drops into those little pockets, he is hard to pin down.''
Monday, August 24, 2009
Two die in hurricane-whipped surf
CNN) -- Authorities have identified both people who died after being swept away by fierce waves churned up by Hurricane Bill on the East Coast.
Tourists watch waves crash ashore at Acadia National Park in Maine on Sunday.
Tourists watch waves crash ashore at Acadia National Park in Maine on Sunday.
Clio Axlerod, 7, of New York, died after a wave knocked her and six other people into the Atlantic at Maine's Acadia National Park on Sunday, Park Chief Stuart West said.
Of the other six who were swept from that park into the ocean, four made it back to shore on their own. Two -- Axlerod's father, Peter Axlerod, 55, and Simone Pelletier, 12, of Belfast, Maine -- were rescued by the Coast Guard, he said.
The victims were among several thousand people who were at the park late Sunday morning to watch the high waves that Bill -- then a Category 1 hurricane -- was producing. iReport.com: See photos shot before tragic wave incident
The people knocked into the water were on a rock cliff about 20 feet above the sea, West said. A wave struck at about 11: 50 a.m., pushing water onto the ankles of some of the people standing on "top of what we think would be a safe area," West said.
People started to turn back, but then they were hit by a larger wave, which sent the seven into the sea, West said.
Some people were taken to a hospital with broken bones or other injuries, according to Sheridan Steele, the park's superintendent.
A witness, Mary Ellen Martel of Maine, said that before the seven were swept into the ocean, people were clapping and laughing when the wind would bring the spray over.
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* WMTW: Victims in Acadia Park wave tragedy identified
"It was a very festive atmosphere," Martel said in a telephone interview. "It was a warm, sunny day and everyone was just enjoying the show that Mother Nature was offering, but not everybody knows to stay away from the edge -- or way, away from the edge."
Martel, who had come to the park with her husband, said she feels "pretty certain" she had been on the same ledge as some of the victims who were swept to shore.
Martel had stood far enough back that the first wave did not affect her much, but when she saw the second coming, she turned her back to protect a camera she had. She was doused from her shoulders down, and she went for the road that led away from the area, she said.
"When I looked [back], everybody was scrambling to get off the ledge," she said.
Angel Rosa, 54, had come with family to Bethune Beach, one of Volusia County's 40 miles of beaches, Petersohn said. Although lifeguards had warned people not to go in the water because the offshore wind built waves to between 10 and 13 feet tall, Petersohn said, he suspects that's exactly why Rosa was in the water.
"I have a feeling he probably came over to body surf these huge waves," he said. He added that such waves come along only every few years.
Rosa entered the water Saturday afternoon with a group, but was separated from them, Petersohn said. His fellow swimmers reported Rosa missing, he said, and as rescue teams were mobilizing, beach patrol received an emergency call that a man had been dragged to shore a half-mile away.
Petersohn said Rosa might have suffered some kind of trauma that contributed to his drowning. Emergency personnel treated three spinal injuries during the weekend, Petersohn said, as the tough waves slammed swimmers into the bottom.
An autopsy report on Rosa is expected in coming days.
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"It's very unfortunate that this happened, and everyone feels terrible about it, but it's not something I'm surprised about," Petersohn said. "As big as the surf was, as treacherous as it was, it doesn't surprise me."
Bill was downgraded to a tropical storm and then to an unnamed storm Monday as it headed into the northern Atlantic. The storm was expected to be in the British Isles by midweek, according to a forecast map from the National Hurricane Center.
Tourists watch waves crash ashore at Acadia National Park in Maine on Sunday.
Tourists watch waves crash ashore at Acadia National Park in Maine on Sunday.
Clio Axlerod, 7, of New York, died after a wave knocked her and six other people into the Atlantic at Maine's Acadia National Park on Sunday, Park Chief Stuart West said.
Of the other six who were swept from that park into the ocean, four made it back to shore on their own. Two -- Axlerod's father, Peter Axlerod, 55, and Simone Pelletier, 12, of Belfast, Maine -- were rescued by the Coast Guard, he said.
The victims were among several thousand people who were at the park late Sunday morning to watch the high waves that Bill -- then a Category 1 hurricane -- was producing. iReport.com: See photos shot before tragic wave incident
The people knocked into the water were on a rock cliff about 20 feet above the sea, West said. A wave struck at about 11: 50 a.m., pushing water onto the ankles of some of the people standing on "top of what we think would be a safe area," West said.
People started to turn back, but then they were hit by a larger wave, which sent the seven into the sea, West said.
Some people were taken to a hospital with broken bones or other injuries, according to Sheridan Steele, the park's superintendent.
A witness, Mary Ellen Martel of Maine, said that before the seven were swept into the ocean, people were clapping and laughing when the wind would bring the spray over.
Don't Miss
* WMTW: Victims in Acadia Park wave tragedy identified
"It was a very festive atmosphere," Martel said in a telephone interview. "It was a warm, sunny day and everyone was just enjoying the show that Mother Nature was offering, but not everybody knows to stay away from the edge -- or way, away from the edge."
Martel, who had come to the park with her husband, said she feels "pretty certain" she had been on the same ledge as some of the victims who were swept to shore.
Martel had stood far enough back that the first wave did not affect her much, but when she saw the second coming, she turned her back to protect a camera she had. She was doused from her shoulders down, and she went for the road that led away from the area, she said.
"When I looked [back], everybody was scrambling to get off the ledge," she said.
Angel Rosa, 54, had come with family to Bethune Beach, one of Volusia County's 40 miles of beaches, Petersohn said. Although lifeguards had warned people not to go in the water because the offshore wind built waves to between 10 and 13 feet tall, Petersohn said, he suspects that's exactly why Rosa was in the water.
"I have a feeling he probably came over to body surf these huge waves," he said. He added that such waves come along only every few years.
Rosa entered the water Saturday afternoon with a group, but was separated from them, Petersohn said. His fellow swimmers reported Rosa missing, he said, and as rescue teams were mobilizing, beach patrol received an emergency call that a man had been dragged to shore a half-mile away.
Petersohn said Rosa might have suffered some kind of trauma that contributed to his drowning. Emergency personnel treated three spinal injuries during the weekend, Petersohn said, as the tough waves slammed swimmers into the bottom.
An autopsy report on Rosa is expected in coming days.
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"It's very unfortunate that this happened, and everyone feels terrible about it, but it's not something I'm surprised about," Petersohn said. "As big as the surf was, as treacherous as it was, it doesn't surprise me."
Bill was downgraded to a tropical storm and then to an unnamed storm Monday as it headed into the northern Atlantic. The storm was expected to be in the British Isles by midweek, according to a forecast map from the National Hurricane Center.
UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Barcelona players dominate UEFA award nominees
Six players who helped Barcelona beat Manchester United 2-0 in May's Champions League final were included in the list of nominees for UEFA's Club Footballer of the Year awards to be presented in Monte Carlo next week.
Xavi Hernandez
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Barcelona's Xavi Hernandez
Goalkeeper Victor Valdes, defender Gerard Pique, midfielders Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta and forwards Lionel Messi and Samuel Eto'o, now with Inter Milan, were on the list released by UEFA on Monday.
The six other players come from either Manchester United, Chelsea or Liverpool.
The three United players are goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, defender Nemanja Vidic and forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who has since joined Real Madrid for a world record transfer fee of £80m.
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech and defender John Terry and Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard were also nominated.
The players were proposed by the coaches of the 16 teams that reached the Champions League knock-out phase, with votes cast for a winner in each position as well as the overall UEFA Club Footballer of the Year.
The announcement will be made during the Champions League group stage draw on August 27.
Nominations:
Goalkeeper: Petr Cech (Chelsea), Victor Valdes (Barcelona), Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United)
Defender: Gerard Pique (Barcelona), John Terry (Chelsea), Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United)
Midfielder: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta (both Barcelona)
Forward: Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi (both Barcelona), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Vidic dreams of playing for Barcelona, says agent
TRANSFER NEWS!
Manchester United centre-back Nemanja Vidic is reportedly on the radar of Barcelona and would love to play for the Spanish club one day, according to his agent.
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Vidic: Dreams of a Nou Camp move?
The Serbian has been one of the star performers in the Premier League and is one of the first names on the teamsheet for United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
The 27-year-old defender, who joined the Red Devils from Spartak Moscow in January 2006, has been linked with a transfer to Europe this summer and, although the Old Trafford outfit are reluctant to let him leave, the defender's agent has hinted he could be keen on a move.
"Vidic would be delighted to play at Barca as his dream is to go to the Spanish league," Paolo Fabbri told Catalan radio station RAC1.
"We have to analyse the situation but, being realistic, things are complicated at the moment.
"The team just lost Cristiano Ronaldo and [Carlos] Tevez and they do not want to lose another important piece of their starting XI once again."
Manchester United centre-back Nemanja Vidic is reportedly on the radar of Barcelona and would love to play for the Spanish club one day, according to his agent.
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Vidic: Dreams of a Nou Camp move?
The Serbian has been one of the star performers in the Premier League and is one of the first names on the teamsheet for United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
The 27-year-old defender, who joined the Red Devils from Spartak Moscow in January 2006, has been linked with a transfer to Europe this summer and, although the Old Trafford outfit are reluctant to let him leave, the defender's agent has hinted he could be keen on a move.
"Vidic would be delighted to play at Barca as his dream is to go to the Spanish league," Paolo Fabbri told Catalan radio station RAC1.
"We have to analyse the situation but, being realistic, things are complicated at the moment.
"The team just lost Cristiano Ronaldo and [Carlos] Tevez and they do not want to lose another important piece of their starting XI once again."
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Manchester United: Newcastle sign Simpson on loan from Man United
Newcastle have signed defender Danny Simpson on loan from Premier League champions Manchester United.
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The 22-year-old, who has made just eight first-team appearances at Old Trafford, has joined the Magpies until January.
Simpson has had loan spells at Royal Antwerp, Sunderland, Ipswich and Blackburn since signing with the United academy in July 2003.
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The 22-year-old, who has made just eight first-team appearances at Old Trafford, has joined the Magpies until January.
Simpson has had loan spells at Royal Antwerp, Sunderland, Ipswich and Blackburn since signing with the United academy in July 2003.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Liverpool sunk at Spurs
Liverpool's hopes of a title challenge took an instant setback with a 2-1 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs' goals came from the unlikely sources of Benoit Assou-Ekotto, with a fierce drive, and Sebastian Bassong. Liverpool could only register a Steven Gerrard penalty.
Bayern Munich: Ribery: Staying and never wanted Real move
Bayern Munich midfielder Franck Ribery has slammed the door firmly shut on a possible departure from the Bundesliga club.
Franck Ribery
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Ribery: Said he was offered by a group of clubs and not just the Bernabeu club
Ribery has been one of the hottest properties this summer with big-spending Real Madrid one of the clubs doing their utmost to prise the France international away from Bayern.
Speculation was rife that Ribery wanted to leave, preferably for Madrid, and Bayern president Franz Beckenbauer publicly questioned his loyalty.
However, the 26-year-old insists he never wanted to move to the Bernabeu.
"I never said I wanted to leave to Real Madrid," Ribery told TF1. "If I wanted to leave, I would have announced it.
"What bothers me is that I never spoke. Newspapers invent a lot of things.
"I can't prevent clubs from making offers. Moreover, there wasn't just Real. There were also Barcelona, Manchester United and Chelsea.
"What I can tell them is that today I am still at Bayern.
"The doors are truly closed. My bosses really want me to stay."
Ribery is under contract at the Allianz Arena until 2011.
Wenger: Cash will force European Super League
Arsene Wenger has revealed he believes a European Super League could become a reality within the next 10 years.
Wenger: Champions League to be usurped?
The Arsenal boss, preparing for Tuesday night's Champions League Play-off showdown with Celtic at Parkhead, believes some clubs will soon become frustrated with the level of financial rewards on offer in Europe's leading club competition and will look for a way to start a breakaway league.
With clubs such as Manchester City and Real Madrid setting new standards for transfer spending, Wenger believes it is highly possible there will be moves to create a new league of top clubs.
At present, UEFA ring fence the cash which comes in from the Champions League and then redistribute it. But with a new European Super League the clubs could take control of those riches.
Wenger did not go as far as to say it was a certainty, but he believes moves are afoot to make an idea which has been mooted for a long time become a reality.
"The national leagues will survive, but maybe in 10 years you will have a European League," Wenger said. "The way we are going now financially, even the money coming in from the Champions League, for some clubs who spend so much money, will not be enough anymore because the income is basically owned by UEFA and they distribute the money to the clubs.
"I'm not sure 100% that I am right, but I feel that there are some voices behind the scenes in our game aiming to do something about a European league, especially if the rules become too restrictive for the big clubs as things currently stand.
"If a European league (does happen) the question is whether clubs will transfer from a national league or whether it is a franchised European league.
"That's the question people will have to answer.
"I personally believe only in sporting merit, so if one league is created there has to be promotion up and down. But that would be, practically, very difficult to resolve.
"I do not want to kill the national leagues so each team should have to play in the national league and in Europe.
"That means the Euro league taking place in midweek and the national league over the weekend. All this would mean having two teams, basically.''
Wenger went on to warn Celtic that his side, who kicked off their season with a stunning 6-1 win over Everton, have the potential to do even better.
"We go into the game maybe a little bit lifted and with belief and confidence because we had a good result away from home at a difficult place,'' he said.
"But you can't come to any conclusions after one game. ''There is room for improvement in every aspect of the game on Saturday, offensively and defensively.
"With every opportunity we created we scored in that game and that shows that the team is highly focussed. But our targets have not been reached yet.
"I want to do what is right for the team and the club and to help this team achieve success. I believe we have the potential to do it, but I am long enough in the job to know that one game is only one game.''
Monday, August 17, 2009
Kanu signs short term deal with Portsmouth
Nigeria international Kanu has agreed a one-month contract with Portsmouth, the Premier League side have announced.
The 33-year-old's contract at Fratton Park expired this summer but his new deal provides only temporary relief for the troubled club.
Portsmouth are in financial turmoil, with the attempted takeover by Dubai property developer Sulaiman al-Fahim still to be completed despite being agreed three months ago.
Manager Paul Hart has been unable to bring in anyone on a permanent basis, but the deal for former Ajax, Inter Milan, Arsenal and West Brom striker Kanu, who has scored 21 goals in 94 appearances for Pompey, will add to his options up front.
Pompey have raised funds by selling England internationals Glen Johnson to Liverpool for £17m and Peter Crouch to Tottenham for £9m this summer and meet Fulham on the opening day of the Premier League season.
The 33-year-old's contract at Fratton Park expired this summer but his new deal provides only temporary relief for the troubled club.
Portsmouth are in financial turmoil, with the attempted takeover by Dubai property developer Sulaiman al-Fahim still to be completed despite being agreed three months ago.
Manager Paul Hart has been unable to bring in anyone on a permanent basis, but the deal for former Ajax, Inter Milan, Arsenal and West Brom striker Kanu, who has scored 21 goals in 94 appearances for Pompey, will add to his options up front.
Pompey have raised funds by selling England internationals Glen Johnson to Liverpool for £17m and Peter Crouch to Tottenham for £9m this summer and meet Fulham on the opening day of the Premier League season.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Everton 1-6 Arsenal : A sixy start to the new season
I think the first thing that needs to be said about yesterday's result is how much we clearly missed Adebayor and Toure. It might have been eight with them and you know goal difference might just be the difference between winning and losing this league. Wenger out.
But seriously, what a way to start the season. A truly fantastic performance against a very good team. Don't let anyone tell you it just was down to Everton being bad. Everton were bad because we made them look bad. We harried, competed, won tackles and headers and the only little spell of pressure they had in the game, some time in the first half if I recall correctly, was when we stood off them. Once we snapped out of our doziness Everton were under the cosh again.
Cesc scores against Everton - remembers Daniel JarqueThe goals were awesome. I love goals. Three in the first half, three in the second. The first came from Denilson after great work by Bendtner and the Brazilian's finish from Cesc's lay-off was outstanding. More of that please, Den.
Impressive debutant Thomas Vermaelen got number two. In the pub I was commenting how the lad likes a header. He was jumping and leaping and doing somersaults and everything. Robin van Persie's free kick found him at the back post, his jump was perfectly time and the headed finish was outstanding.
William Gallas wasn't to be outdone by his new partner though heading home a Cesc free kick and then the captain took over. The fourth goal was just an Arsenal goal. From back to front, great passing, about three nutmegs (including the finish) and just beautiful to watch. He got his second, dedicated to Espanyol captain Daniel Jarque who died last week, when Everton just stood off him and allowed him to run all the way from our half to the edge of their box. It would have been rude of him not to finish it the way he did.
And there was still time for more. Andrei Arshavin's toe-poke hit the post but master poacher Eduardo scored on his first Premier League appearance since having his leg shattered by that almighty cunt Martin Taylor. He is back. For once viral media didn't lie to us. And because we felt a little bit sorry for Everton and the 12 fans that remained in Goodison Park we let them score one. A clean sheet would have been nice but I'll concede every single week if we get 6 up the other end.
Overall it was a truly outstanding way to start to the season. A really solid team performance, we were good defensively, Vermaelen looks a player, obviously we clicked as an attacking force and the new formation seems to suit us very well indeed. At one stage towards the end of the first half we attacked down our right, crossed the ball to the back post and there was Cesc Fabregas looking to score with a header. It seems fluid and effective and it's very encouraging for the rest of the campaign.
Scoring 6 at Goodison Park is no mean feat, it's a statement of intent for the season ahead and I'm absolutely delighted. It's brilliant preparation for the big game on Tuesday too.
Afterwards Arsene Wenger said:
It was a good team performance. I feel overall there is still room for improvement, not on the scoreline but in what we did today. But overall I am very happy with the team attitude basically, and we look like we have matured. And it’s a good basis to continue to improve and to work on what we want to do.
Frankly, we can't have any complaints whatsoever with how we opened our season. I'd have been happy with 1-0, to smack 6 past a good Everton side is fantastic. And may, just possibly, have contributed to my hangover this morning.
I could go around the other news this morning but what's the point? Is anybody interested in anything Cashmaneul Moneybayor says about Cesc? No they are not because he is a big stupid cunt who is about as interesting as watching toe-nails grow.
All the talk this morning should be about our team because they deserve all the praise they get today. Football's back, the Arsenal are back, and I love it.
Now, if you'll excuse me I'm going to sit in a chair and shake for a while.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Fabregas laments Arsenal's 'impotence'
CNN) -- Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas has followed his country's surprise 2-0 Confederations Cup defeat to the United States by hinting he could be ready to leave English Premier League club Arsenal because of their limited success.
Cesc Fabregas
Is Cesc Fabregas paving the way for a move away from London-based club Arsenal?
The 22-year-old star told British newspaper The Sun that the loss to the USA was not the prime factor contributing to his depressed mood, instead he focused on his club's inability to win silverware.
"The absence of titles at Arsenal is what angers me the most. Cristiano Ronaldo said he's leaving Manchester United because he had nothing else to win. For me right now it is the exact opposite, seeing the impotence," the playmaker and club captain said. Check out the world's 20 most wanted players.
Fabregas, who joined the north London club in 2003, has not won a major club trophy since Arsenal beat Manchester United in 2005 to lift the FA Cup. Arsene Wenger's team have also not been crowned champions of the Premier League since 2004, a factor that has been increasingly of concern for the diminutive footballer.
"This year we wanted [the title], we were giving everything - but we couldn't reach the level that everyone expected of Arsenal. When you win, you're well. But when you don't, everyone is in a bad mood. For four years now, we've needed a title to regain our belief in ourselves," he added.
Fabregas signed an eight-year contract with the Gunners in 2006, a deal that should see him stay at the club until 2014, however, it seems he is already considering other destinations to ply his trade.
"My seventh season is about to start. It's a lot when you're just 22. When you stop to think, you see that time flies. In football, you have to learn fast and take the best decisions for yourself and try to be happy.
"If one day I'm not happy, I am the first who will tell the manager. I admire Arsene Wenger but each of us has his own life and looks after his own interests."
The midfielder - who helped his national side win the European title in 2008 as well as guiding Arsenal to the semifinals of the Champions League in 2009 - hinted that the ambition shown by Real Madrid has attracted his attention despite descending from a family of Barcelona supporters.
"Of course my family would understand if I signed for Real Madrid because they love me, they want me to be happy and what is best for me. They'd support me - whichever club I joined. My family will always be there for me - whatever decision I make. They're the ones who are always by my side."
Since the re-election of president Florentino Perez, Real Madrid have embarked on a period of extravagant spending, buying Brazil's Kaka for $92 millions dollars from AC Milan and agreeing a $130 million transfer fee with Manchester United for World Player of the Year Ronaldo.
Rumors have circulated that Fabregas could be a target for Los Merengues and the man himself speculated it would be a difficult choice to make if both Barcelona and Real were to bid for him.
"At the moment it's not happened so I don't have to choose. For any player it gives great pride that those two clubs come to sign him. It would be a difficult choice," he added.
Arsenal kick off the forthcoming season in England with an away visit to Everton on August 15.
Cesc Fabregas
Is Cesc Fabregas paving the way for a move away from London-based club Arsenal?
The 22-year-old star told British newspaper The Sun that the loss to the USA was not the prime factor contributing to his depressed mood, instead he focused on his club's inability to win silverware.
"The absence of titles at Arsenal is what angers me the most. Cristiano Ronaldo said he's leaving Manchester United because he had nothing else to win. For me right now it is the exact opposite, seeing the impotence," the playmaker and club captain said. Check out the world's 20 most wanted players.
Fabregas, who joined the north London club in 2003, has not won a major club trophy since Arsenal beat Manchester United in 2005 to lift the FA Cup. Arsene Wenger's team have also not been crowned champions of the Premier League since 2004, a factor that has been increasingly of concern for the diminutive footballer.
"This year we wanted [the title], we were giving everything - but we couldn't reach the level that everyone expected of Arsenal. When you win, you're well. But when you don't, everyone is in a bad mood. For four years now, we've needed a title to regain our belief in ourselves," he added.
Fabregas signed an eight-year contract with the Gunners in 2006, a deal that should see him stay at the club until 2014, however, it seems he is already considering other destinations to ply his trade.
"My seventh season is about to start. It's a lot when you're just 22. When you stop to think, you see that time flies. In football, you have to learn fast and take the best decisions for yourself and try to be happy.
"If one day I'm not happy, I am the first who will tell the manager. I admire Arsene Wenger but each of us has his own life and looks after his own interests."
The midfielder - who helped his national side win the European title in 2008 as well as guiding Arsenal to the semifinals of the Champions League in 2009 - hinted that the ambition shown by Real Madrid has attracted his attention despite descending from a family of Barcelona supporters.
"Of course my family would understand if I signed for Real Madrid because they love me, they want me to be happy and what is best for me. They'd support me - whichever club I joined. My family will always be there for me - whatever decision I make. They're the ones who are always by my side."
Since the re-election of president Florentino Perez, Real Madrid have embarked on a period of extravagant spending, buying Brazil's Kaka for $92 millions dollars from AC Milan and agreeing a $130 million transfer fee with Manchester United for World Player of the Year Ronaldo.
Rumors have circulated that Fabregas could be a target for Los Merengues and the man himself speculated it would be a difficult choice to make if both Barcelona and Real were to bid for him.
"At the moment it's not happened so I don't have to choose. For any player it gives great pride that those two clubs come to sign him. It would be a difficult choice," he added.
Arsenal kick off the forthcoming season in England with an away visit to Everton on August 15.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Bodies of Air France captain, steward found
(CNN) -- Search crews have recovered the bodies of the flight captain and a steward from the Air France flight that crashed off the coast of Brazil.
A Brazilian diver floats on wreckage of Flight 447 earlier this month. The search for more debris continues.
A Brazilian diver floats on wreckage of Flight 447 earlier this month. The search for more debris continues.
The two flight members are among the victims that have been identified, Air France said in a statement Thursday.
About a dozen victims have been identified among roughly 50 bodies recovered from the crash of Flight 447, which killed 228 people on June 1, authorities in Brazil said this week.
Crews continue to search for bodies, wreckage and flight-data recorders that apparently rest deep on the ocean floor. Data from the recorders may be crucial in helping investigators determine what caused the plane to crash. Video Watch more wreckage recovered from crash »
Autopsies conducted on some of the 50 bodies found so far show they suffered broken bones, including arms, legs and hips, Brazilian authorities have told French investigators, according to Paul-Louis Arslanian, head of the French accident investigation board.
Such injuries suggest that the plane broke apart in midair, experts have said.
Asked about that theory, Air France Chief Executive Pierre-Henri Gourgeon told France's RTL radio this week that he would not go that far.
"What I know is that the investigators would like to know the causes of death," Gourgeon said. "That knowledge of causes of death will better clarify what exactly happened. Were the victims killed before the impact, or during impact?"
Searchers have found dozens of pieces of debris in the water and think they know the general location of the wreck, but Arslanian said this week that there is a chance the entire aircraft may never be found.
Air France plans to pay relatives of the victims an initial compensation equivalent to about $24,500, or 17,500 euros, for each victim, Gourgeon has said.
The airliner said this week that it has been in touch with about 1,800 relatives of the people who died when the Airbus A330 crashed, but that it has been difficult tracing the relatives of all 228 victims
"The modern world is different and we often have only a cell phone, and as you can imagine, this cell phone is unfortunately in the aircraft," Gourgeon said. "So we probably (will put in) more hours to access all the relatives."
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The company is also providing families with counseling, he said.
The were 32 different nationalities present on Flight 447.
A Brazilian diver floats on wreckage of Flight 447 earlier this month. The search for more debris continues.
A Brazilian diver floats on wreckage of Flight 447 earlier this month. The search for more debris continues.
The two flight members are among the victims that have been identified, Air France said in a statement Thursday.
About a dozen victims have been identified among roughly 50 bodies recovered from the crash of Flight 447, which killed 228 people on June 1, authorities in Brazil said this week.
Crews continue to search for bodies, wreckage and flight-data recorders that apparently rest deep on the ocean floor. Data from the recorders may be crucial in helping investigators determine what caused the plane to crash. Video Watch more wreckage recovered from crash »
Autopsies conducted on some of the 50 bodies found so far show they suffered broken bones, including arms, legs and hips, Brazilian authorities have told French investigators, according to Paul-Louis Arslanian, head of the French accident investigation board.
Such injuries suggest that the plane broke apart in midair, experts have said.
Asked about that theory, Air France Chief Executive Pierre-Henri Gourgeon told France's RTL radio this week that he would not go that far.
"What I know is that the investigators would like to know the causes of death," Gourgeon said. "That knowledge of causes of death will better clarify what exactly happened. Were the victims killed before the impact, or during impact?"
Searchers have found dozens of pieces of debris in the water and think they know the general location of the wreck, but Arslanian said this week that there is a chance the entire aircraft may never be found.
Air France plans to pay relatives of the victims an initial compensation equivalent to about $24,500, or 17,500 euros, for each victim, Gourgeon has said.
The airliner said this week that it has been in touch with about 1,800 relatives of the people who died when the Airbus A330 crashed, but that it has been difficult tracing the relatives of all 228 victims
"The modern world is different and we often have only a cell phone, and as you can imagine, this cell phone is unfortunately in the aircraft," Gourgeon said. "So we probably (will put in) more hours to access all the relatives."
advertisement
The company is also providing families with counseling, he said.
The were 32 different nationalities present on Flight 447.
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