CHICAGO (AP) - Stuart Holden is a notorious practical joker, always hiding around corners in hopes of taking somebody by surprise.
Oh, he's surprising people all right.
On a team of young and inexperienced players eager to make their mark, no American has stood out more in the CONCACAF Gold Cup than the 23-year-old midfielder. Holden has scored twice in five games, and he had assists on both goals Thursday night as the United States beat Honduras 2-0 to advance to its third straight Gold Cup final.
The Americans play archrival Mexico in Sunday's final at the Meadowlands in New Jersey. It's a rematch of the 2007 final, where the United States beat El Tri to win its second straight Gold Cup title.
"I enjoy this. It's not only my job, it's something I enjoy doing and the big games are what you live for," Holden said. "These are the kind of games I want to play in and want to be a part of.
"If you shy away from these, why would you want to play on this team and be at this level?"
Especially considering what it's taken for Holden to get here.
Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, Holden moved to Houston when he was 10 (his father, Brian, worked for Chevron). After two years at Clemson, Holden signed in March 2005 with Sunderland, then in England's League Championship.
But after playing in just two games with the Black Cats' reserves, Holden was attacked while waiting for a taxi with his brother, Euan.
"I guess they were trying to cut in front of us in the taxi line, and one of the guys in our group said something to them," Holden said. "Next thing you know, I was the one, the small guy who got hit."
Holden's left eye socket was broken in three or four places, and he had double vision for three months. By the time he'd recovered, his contract was up and Sunderland was looking for more established players, having been promoted to the Premier League.
He had a tryout with Leicester City, only to break his ankle the first game.
"I'd always maintained the mentality I was going to give it the full go until I just couldn't anymore. But I'd be lying to you if I said it never crossed my mind at one point or another," Holden said. "How am I going to play soccer if I see two balls every time I look in the air?
"It was tough at the time. I was 19, living by myself. But it's worked out for the best."
When his ankle healed, Holden signed with the hometown Houston Dynamo. After playing in 13 games his first season, he had a breakout year in 2007 with five goals and a team-high five assists in 22 games.
Last year, as part of the U.S. Olympic team, he scored the winning goal in the Americans' opener against Japan. That helped earn him an invitation to the senior national team training camp before a Jan. 24 friendly against Sweden.
U.S. coach Bob Bradley turned to his JV roster for the Gold Cup, giving most of his regular starters a break following their stunning run to the Confederations Cup final. Not only do the younger players get experience, the Gold Cup gives Bradley an idea of who might help in the lead-up to next year's World Cup in South Africa.
But this is hardly a field trip.
The United States is the two-time defending champion, and Bradley made sure the youngsters understood the responsibility that came with their shirts.
"Anytime I'm on the field, I want to impress and I want to win," Holden said. "I'm a competitor and anything I can do to help the team win goes a long way."
His goal in the opener against Grenada was the first by an American in his international debut since Eddie Robinson against Sweden in January 2008. Holden salvaged a 2-2 tie against Haiti with a 25-foot shot in the first minute of second-half injury time.
And while he didn't score Thursday, his contributions were no less important.
While the Americans were practicing corner kicks Wednesday, Bradley went to a spot in front of the goal and told Holden that was where he should deliver the ball. Sure enough, his corner kick went to that exact spot just before halftime Thursday, and Clarence Goodson headed it into the net for the 1-0 lead.
Late in the second half, Holden collected a back-heel flick from Ching and sent a cross to Kenny Cooper, who one-timed it for a 2-0 lead.
Off the field, he's been key to that all-important team chemistry. With his practical jokes and killer impressions - Brian Ching, one of the few regular starters on the Gold Cup roster and Holden's teammate in Houston, said Holden does good imitations of both Bradley and former U.S. assistant coach Peter Nowak - he has a knack for putting anyone at ease.
"Stuart is a player that has been on the verge of getting into our team for a while," Bradley said. "The timing of this tournament was good for him and, like others, he's taken advantage of it."
7/24/2009
Beckham fined $1,000 by MLS for fan gestures
NEW YORK (AP) - David Beckham was fined $1,000 by Major League Soccer, which said his gestures toward taunting fans suggested that they leave their seats and come on the field.
The fine by MLS commissioner Don Garber on Friday came five days after the English star confronted Los Angeles Galaxy fans in a group called the L.A. Riot Squad. The Galaxy and AC Milan played to a 2-2 tie in an exhibition game. Beckham played with AC Milan this year and was booed through much of the game.
"We support our players interacting with fans, whether it is at clinics, charity events or by high-fiving their supporters in the stands while celebrating a goal," Garber said. "However, our players should never engage in conduct that can be interpreted as encouraging fans to come out of the stands and onto the field, regardless of the reason."
At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
Then after a second-half corner kick in front of the Riot Squad's section, Beckham immediately turned to those fans, put his index finger to his lips, shrugged his shoulders and blew them a kiss. The kick resulted in a goal.
Beckham has been unapologetic about his actions.
"At the end of the day, I play my game," Beckham said Thursday. "If it's not good enough for some people, as long as it's good enough for myself and the team, nothing else matters."
The Riot Squad blamed Beckham for agitating the situation in a statement on the group's Web site Thursday.
"Had David responded differently on Sunday, the booing and the chanting probably would have ended at halftime," the statement said. "We don't believe questioning Beckham's commitment to our team is over the line, but it's clear that David feels otherwise."
The fine by MLS commissioner Don Garber on Friday came five days after the English star confronted Los Angeles Galaxy fans in a group called the L.A. Riot Squad. The Galaxy and AC Milan played to a 2-2 tie in an exhibition game. Beckham played with AC Milan this year and was booed through much of the game.
"We support our players interacting with fans, whether it is at clinics, charity events or by high-fiving their supporters in the stands while celebrating a goal," Garber said. "However, our players should never engage in conduct that can be interpreted as encouraging fans to come out of the stands and onto the field, regardless of the reason."
At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
Then after a second-half corner kick in front of the Riot Squad's section, Beckham immediately turned to those fans, put his index finger to his lips, shrugged his shoulders and blew them a kiss. The kick resulted in a goal.
Beckham has been unapologetic about his actions.
"At the end of the day, I play my game," Beckham said Thursday. "If it's not good enough for some people, as long as it's good enough for myself and the team, nothing else matters."
The Riot Squad blamed Beckham for agitating the situation in a statement on the group's Web site Thursday.
"Had David responded differently on Sunday, the booing and the chanting probably would have ended at halftime," the statement said. "We don't believe questioning Beckham's commitment to our team is over the line, but it's clear that David feels otherwise."
Preview: Columbus vs. Toronto
The Columbus Crew are on the cusp of setting an MLS record for the longest unbeaten streak at home, and they'll have to do it without league goal-scoring leader Guillermo Barros Schelotto.
Facing a team they've never lost to could make that goal much easier.
Looking to remain unbeaten for a 19th consecutive home game, the Crew will again try to withstand Schelotto's absence for a second straight week as they meet Toronto FC on Saturday night.
Columbus (6-3-9), the reigning MLS Cup champion, is 12-0-6 at Crew Stadium since falling 2-0 to San Jose on June 7, 2008. The unbeaten run equals the Earthquakes' league record set from Sept. 25, 2004-Oct. 15, 2005.
"We try to win every game ... we don't think about records," Crew coach Robert Warzycha said. "But it's something that (when) you finish the season ... it's nice to read about."
The Crew extended their streak last Saturday by beating Salt Lake 3-1 while playing without 10-goal scorer Schelotto due to a left hamstring strain.
The injury has ruled the playmaker out against Toronto (7-6-5). The Crew will also be without forward Alejandro Moreno, who has three goals, for a third straight game because of a groin strain.
With their top two forwards missing, Warzycha will likely use reserves Jason Garey and Steven Lenhart again. Garey found the back of the net twice last Saturday, and Lenhart added his first goal of the season while also getting an assist in just his second start.
"They did a very good job," Warzycha said. "They combined well together and seemed to have a lot of energy. They were very aggressive and caused a lot of problems for the defenders."
Another strong performance from the duo could help Columbus move atop the Eastern Conference. The Crew are tied with D.C. for second, one point behind first-place Chicago, but only one ahead of fourth-place Toronto.
Columbus is 3-0-5 all-time against Toronto, going 2-0-2 at home. The clubs have played to ties in each of the last four meetings, including 1-all at Crew Stadium on March 28.
TFC appeared to be headed to a second consecutive victory last Saturday, but a defensive error led to a goal with 15 minutes left as it settled for a 1-all draw with West-leading Houston.
"I'm not happy at all, 1-1 is just not good enough for me," Toronto forward Dwayne De Rosario said. "(That was) a game that I think we needed to win."
De Rosario has scored two goals in his last four games, giving him a team-high six this season. He's one shy of his total with the Dynamo from last year.
Amado Guevara, who has five goals and a team-high four assists, is struggling offensively. The midfielder has no goals or assists in his last six games after finding the back of the net twice in a 3-1 win over New England on May 23.
The Honduran international has a goal and six assists in 13 games against Columbus.
Facing a team they've never lost to could make that goal much easier.
Looking to remain unbeaten for a 19th consecutive home game, the Crew will again try to withstand Schelotto's absence for a second straight week as they meet Toronto FC on Saturday night.
Columbus (6-3-9), the reigning MLS Cup champion, is 12-0-6 at Crew Stadium since falling 2-0 to San Jose on June 7, 2008. The unbeaten run equals the Earthquakes' league record set from Sept. 25, 2004-Oct. 15, 2005.
"We try to win every game ... we don't think about records," Crew coach Robert Warzycha said. "But it's something that (when) you finish the season ... it's nice to read about."
The Crew extended their streak last Saturday by beating Salt Lake 3-1 while playing without 10-goal scorer Schelotto due to a left hamstring strain.
The injury has ruled the playmaker out against Toronto (7-6-5). The Crew will also be without forward Alejandro Moreno, who has three goals, for a third straight game because of a groin strain.
With their top two forwards missing, Warzycha will likely use reserves Jason Garey and Steven Lenhart again. Garey found the back of the net twice last Saturday, and Lenhart added his first goal of the season while also getting an assist in just his second start.
"They did a very good job," Warzycha said. "They combined well together and seemed to have a lot of energy. They were very aggressive and caused a lot of problems for the defenders."
Another strong performance from the duo could help Columbus move atop the Eastern Conference. The Crew are tied with D.C. for second, one point behind first-place Chicago, but only one ahead of fourth-place Toronto.
Columbus is 3-0-5 all-time against Toronto, going 2-0-2 at home. The clubs have played to ties in each of the last four meetings, including 1-all at Crew Stadium on March 28.
TFC appeared to be headed to a second consecutive victory last Saturday, but a defensive error led to a goal with 15 minutes left as it settled for a 1-all draw with West-leading Houston.
"I'm not happy at all, 1-1 is just not good enough for me," Toronto forward Dwayne De Rosario said. "(That was) a game that I think we needed to win."
De Rosario has scored two goals in his last four games, giving him a team-high six this season. He's one shy of his total with the Dynamo from last year.
Amado Guevara, who has five goals and a team-high four assists, is struggling offensively. The midfielder has no goals or assists in his last six games after finding the back of the net twice in a 3-1 win over New England on May 23.
The Honduran international has a goal and six assists in 13 games against Columbus.
Bolivian coach quits after debuting pre-teen son
LA PAZ, Bolivia (AP) - Bolivian club coach Julio Cesar Baldivieso quit on Friday after being heavily criticized for playing his then-12-year-old son in a premier division match last weekend.
Baldivieso fielded his son Mauricio on Sunday in the final 10 minutes of Aurora's 1-0 loss to La Paz.
The newspaper La Razon quoted Baldivieso as saying Mauricio, who turned 13 on Wednesday, played well, but much of the media and even his own club questioned the performance and the decision by Baldivieso.
Baldivieso said he reached a mutual decision to resign with officials of the Cochabamba-based club, which he took over last year as a player-coach, and only coached this year. He led the team into this year's Copa Libertadores.
Baldivieso played more than 80 times for Bolivia until 2005.
Baldivieso fielded his son Mauricio on Sunday in the final 10 minutes of Aurora's 1-0 loss to La Paz.
The newspaper La Razon quoted Baldivieso as saying Mauricio, who turned 13 on Wednesday, played well, but much of the media and even his own club questioned the performance and the decision by Baldivieso.
Baldivieso said he reached a mutual decision to resign with officials of the Cochabamba-based club, which he took over last year as a player-coach, and only coached this year. He led the team into this year's Copa Libertadores.
Baldivieso played more than 80 times for Bolivia until 2005.
Beckham fined $1,000 by MLS for conduct toward fan
NEW YORK (AP) - David Beckham has been fined $1,000 by Major League Soccer for his conduct toward a fan during an exhibition game.
MLS commissioner Don Garber fined the English star Friday, five days after Beckham confronted Galaxy fans in a group called the L.A. Riot Squad. The Galaxy and AC Milan played to a 2-2 tie. Beckham played with AC Milan this year and was booed through much of the game.
At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
MLS commissioner Don Garber fined the English star Friday, five days after Beckham confronted Galaxy fans in a group called the L.A. Riot Squad. The Galaxy and AC Milan played to a 2-2 tie. Beckham played with AC Milan this year and was booed through much of the game.
At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
Preview: Kansas City vs. Los Angeles
David Beckham has been a magnet for controversy this season for the Los Angeles Galaxy. Quite a feat, considering he's played in just one MLS game.
Beckham tries to put all the distractions aside and help the surging Galaxy win their fifth in a row when they visit the Kansas City Wizards on Friday night.
In Sunday's 2-2 exhibition tie with AC Milan, Beckham confronted Galaxy fans after they booed and jeered him while displaying derisive banners. At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
While Beckham seemed to agitate the fans, he didn't feel like he was to blame for the incident.
"It's not a setback for myself. It's other people that have to change," Beckham said Thursday after practice. "It's not about whether I can move on. I wasn't the one booing."
Galaxy fans have been angry about Beckham's publicly stated desire to stay with AC Milan beyond March, the original end of his loan.
The fans haven't been the only ones to criticize the star.
In a recently released book, Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan accused Beckham of not giving his full effort and allegedly quitting on Los Angeles (6-3-9) in the late stages of a disappointing 2008 season.
The two made up before Beckham played in his first league game, a 3-1 Galaxy victory over New York on July 16 that extended the team's winning streak to four. This is the club's longest run since taking five in a row Sept. 23-Oct. 13, 2007.
Donovan, selected to play for the MLS All-Star team in Wednesday's game against Everton FC of the English Premier League, had a goal and an assist against the Red Bulls. He has been involved in 12 of the Galaxy's 22 goals this season (seven goals, five assists).
Donovan has one goal and two assists in three games against the Wizards (5-6-5) since the start of last season, with Los Angeles going 1-1-1 in those contests.
Kansas City hasn't played since a scoreless tie with New England on July 11. The Wizards didn't score in their last two games after tallying a season-high three goals in a win over the Revolution on June 13.
Kansas City had plenty of opportunities their last time out with 16 shots, but New England's Matt Reis made a career-high 11 saves.
"We've having problems putting balls into the back of the net over the last couple of weeks," Wizards coach Curt Onalfo told the league's official Web site. "The positive is that we're creating chances, the negative is that we're not putting them away."
It may not get any easier against a Los Angeles club that has yielded one goal during its winning streak.
The last time these teams met May 30, the Wizards were held scoreless until first-time All-Star Davy Arnaud scored in the 84th minute. Three minutes later, Galaxy forward Edson Buddle answered with a goal off an assist from Donovan and the game ended in a 1-all tie.
Beckham tries to put all the distractions aside and help the surging Galaxy win their fifth in a row when they visit the Kansas City Wizards on Friday night.
In Sunday's 2-2 exhibition tie with AC Milan, Beckham confronted Galaxy fans after they booed and jeered him while displaying derisive banners. At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
While Beckham seemed to agitate the fans, he didn't feel like he was to blame for the incident.
"It's not a setback for myself. It's other people that have to change," Beckham said Thursday after practice. "It's not about whether I can move on. I wasn't the one booing."
Galaxy fans have been angry about Beckham's publicly stated desire to stay with AC Milan beyond March, the original end of his loan.
The fans haven't been the only ones to criticize the star.
In a recently released book, Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan accused Beckham of not giving his full effort and allegedly quitting on Los Angeles (6-3-9) in the late stages of a disappointing 2008 season.
The two made up before Beckham played in his first league game, a 3-1 Galaxy victory over New York on July 16 that extended the team's winning streak to four. This is the club's longest run since taking five in a row Sept. 23-Oct. 13, 2007.
Donovan, selected to play for the MLS All-Star team in Wednesday's game against Everton FC of the English Premier League, had a goal and an assist against the Red Bulls. He has been involved in 12 of the Galaxy's 22 goals this season (seven goals, five assists).
Donovan has one goal and two assists in three games against the Wizards (5-6-5) since the start of last season, with Los Angeles going 1-1-1 in those contests.
Kansas City hasn't played since a scoreless tie with New England on July 11. The Wizards didn't score in their last two games after tallying a season-high three goals in a win over the Revolution on June 13.
Kansas City had plenty of opportunities their last time out with 16 shots, but New England's Matt Reis made a career-high 11 saves.
"We've having problems putting balls into the back of the net over the last couple of weeks," Wizards coach Curt Onalfo told the league's official Web site. "The positive is that we're creating chances, the negative is that we're not putting them away."
It may not get any easier against a Los Angeles club that has yielded one goal during its winning streak.
The last time these teams met May 30, the Wizards were held scoreless until first-time All-Star Davy Arnaud scored in the 84th minute. Three minutes later, Galaxy forward Edson Buddle answered with a goal off an assist from Donovan and the game ended in a 1-all tie.
Ibrahimovic to arrive at Barcelona on Sunday
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) - Zlatan Ibrahimovic will arrive at Barcelona on Sunday to seal his move from Inter Milan to the Spanish champion.
Barcelona said Ibrahimovic would undergo his medical examination on Monday.
Barcelona has also allowed striker Samuel Eto'o and midfielder Aleksandr Hleb to travel to Milan to finalize their moves to the Serie A champion, which was part of the agreed swap. Eto'o is set to join Inter for five seasons while Hleb would go on loan for one campaign.
Barcelona, which said it would reveal further details of Ibrahimovic's trip on Saturday, has also agreed to pay Inter a reported £40 million ($56 million) to help complete the move.
Barcelona said Ibrahimovic would undergo his medical examination on Monday.
Barcelona has also allowed striker Samuel Eto'o and midfielder Aleksandr Hleb to travel to Milan to finalize their moves to the Serie A champion, which was part of the agreed swap. Eto'o is set to join Inter for five seasons while Hleb would go on loan for one campaign.
Barcelona, which said it would reveal further details of Ibrahimovic's trip on Saturday, has also agreed to pay Inter a reported £40 million ($56 million) to help complete the move.
Cats complete Cana capture
Sunderland have wasted no time replacing Dean Whitehead after signing Marseille captain Lorik Cana in a deal worth more than £5million.
The Albania midfielder, who has signed a four-year contract, becomes Steve Bruce's third signing of the summer following the arrivals of Paraguay skipper Paulo Da Silva and England Under-21 striker Fraizer Campbell.
He signs less than half a day after Black Cats skipper Whitehead left for Stoke for an initial £3million.
Bruce told the club's official website: "I'm delighted to have brought Lorik to the club, especially given the number of clubs who had expressed an interest in signing him."
Cana, who turns 26 on Monday, has 31 caps for Albania and helped Marseille to a second-placed finish behind Bordeaux in Ligue 1 last season.
Bruce added: "He brings with him a tremendous amount of experience both at club level and internationally and is a great addition to our squad.
"To captain a side of Marseille's stature says a lot about the player and his character, and I'm sure he'll go on to be a fantastic signing for Sunderland."
Cana joined Marseille from Paris St Germain in 2005.
Sunderland are currently in Holland taking part in the Amsterdam tournament, in which they went down 2-0 to Benfica on Friday night.
The Albania midfielder, who has signed a four-year contract, becomes Steve Bruce's third signing of the summer following the arrivals of Paraguay skipper Paulo Da Silva and England Under-21 striker Fraizer Campbell.
He signs less than half a day after Black Cats skipper Whitehead left for Stoke for an initial £3million.
Bruce told the club's official website: "I'm delighted to have brought Lorik to the club, especially given the number of clubs who had expressed an interest in signing him."
Cana, who turns 26 on Monday, has 31 caps for Albania and helped Marseille to a second-placed finish behind Bordeaux in Ligue 1 last season.
Bruce added: "He brings with him a tremendous amount of experience both at club level and internationally and is a great addition to our squad.
"To captain a side of Marseille's stature says a lot about the player and his character, and I'm sure he'll go on to be a fantastic signing for Sunderland."
Cana joined Marseille from Paris St Germain in 2005.
Sunderland are currently in Holland taking part in the Amsterdam tournament, in which they went down 2-0 to Benfica on Friday night.
Preview: Kansas City vs. Los Angeles
David Beckham has been a magnet for controversy this season for the Los Angeles Galaxy. Quite a feat, considering he's played in just one MLS game.
Beckham tries to put all the distractions aside and help the surging Galaxy win their fifth in a row when they visit the Kansas City Wizards on Friday night.
In Sunday's 2-2 exhibition tie with AC Milan, Beckham confronted Galaxy fans after they booed and jeered him while displaying derisive banners. At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
While Beckham seemed to agitate the fans, he didn't feel like he was to blame for the incident.
"It's not a setback for myself. It's other people that have to change," Beckham said Thursday after practice. "It's not about whether I can move on. I wasn't the one booing."
Galaxy fans have been angry about Beckham's publicly stated desire to stay with AC Milan beyond March, the original end of his loan.
The fans haven't been the only ones to criticize the star.
In a recently released book, Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan accused Beckham of not giving his full effort and allegedly quitting on Los Angeles (6-3-9) in the late stages of a disappointing 2008 season.
The two made up before Beckham played in his first league game, a 3-1 Galaxy victory over New York on July 16 that extended the team's winning streak to four. This is the club's longest run since taking five in a row Sept. 23-Oct. 13, 2007.
Donovan, selected to play for the MLS All-Star team in Wednesday's game against Everton FC of the English Premier League, had a goal and an assist against the Red Bulls. He has been involved in 12 of the Galaxy's 22 goals this season (seven goals, five assists).
Donovan has one goal and two assists in three games against the Wizards (5-6-5) since the start of last season, with Los Angeles going 1-1-1 in those contests.
Kansas City hasn't played since a scoreless tie with New England on July 11. The Wizards didn't score in their last two games after tallying a season-high three goals in a win over the Revolution on June 13.
Kansas City had plenty of opportunities their last time out with 16 shots, but New England's Matt Reis made a career-high 11 saves.
"We've having problems putting balls into the back of the net over the last couple of weeks," Wizards coach Curt Onalfo told the league's official Web site. "The positive is that we're creating chances, the negative is that we're not putting them away."
It may not get any easier against a Los Angeles club that has yielded one goal during its winning streak.
The last time these teams met May 30, the Wizards were held scoreless until first-time All-Star Davy Arnaud scored in the 84th minute. Three minutes later, Galaxy forward Edson Buddle answered with a goal off an assist from Donovan and the game ended in a 1-all tie.
Beckham tries to put all the distractions aside and help the surging Galaxy win their fifth in a row when they visit the Kansas City Wizards on Friday night.
In Sunday's 2-2 exhibition tie with AC Milan, Beckham confronted Galaxy fans after they booed and jeered him while displaying derisive banners. At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
While Beckham seemed to agitate the fans, he didn't feel like he was to blame for the incident.
"It's not a setback for myself. It's other people that have to change," Beckham said Thursday after practice. "It's not about whether I can move on. I wasn't the one booing."
Galaxy fans have been angry about Beckham's publicly stated desire to stay with AC Milan beyond March, the original end of his loan.
The fans haven't been the only ones to criticize the star.
In a recently released book, Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan accused Beckham of not giving his full effort and allegedly quitting on Los Angeles (6-3-9) in the late stages of a disappointing 2008 season.
The two made up before Beckham played in his first league game, a 3-1 Galaxy victory over New York on July 16 that extended the team's winning streak to four. This is the club's longest run since taking five in a row Sept. 23-Oct. 13, 2007.
Donovan, selected to play for the MLS All-Star team in Wednesday's game against Everton FC of the English Premier League, had a goal and an assist against the Red Bulls. He has been involved in 12 of the Galaxy's 22 goals this season (seven goals, five assists).
Donovan has one goal and two assists in three games against the Wizards (5-6-5) since the start of last season, with Los Angeles going 1-1-1 in those contests.
Kansas City hasn't played since a scoreless tie with New England on July 11. The Wizards didn't score in their last two games after tallying a season-high three goals in a win over the Revolution on June 13.
Kansas City had plenty of opportunities their last time out with 16 shots, but New England's Matt Reis made a career-high 11 saves.
"We've having problems putting balls into the back of the net over the last couple of weeks," Wizards coach Curt Onalfo told the league's official Web site. "The positive is that we're creating chances, the negative is that we're not putting them away."
It may not get any easier against a Los Angeles club that has yielded one goal during its winning streak.
The last time these teams met May 30, the Wizards were held scoreless until first-time All-Star Davy Arnaud scored in the 84th minute. Three minutes later, Galaxy forward Edson Buddle answered with a goal off an assist from Donovan and the game ended in a 1-all tie.
Preview: San Jose vs. D.C. United
If D.C. United has any chance of challenging for first place in the Eastern Conference, they'll have to start playing better on the road.
Seeking their first win away from home in nearly three months, United begins a three-game road trip Saturday night against the struggling San Jose Earthquakes.
D.C. (6-3-9) recorded its first win in more than a month last Saturday, beating Colorado 3-1. United had given up seven goals on an 0-1-2 road trip from June 17-July 4, but held Colorado to two shots and only allowed an own goal in the 14th minute.
They responded with three second-half scores including one by Bryan Namoff, who was responsible for putting the ball past Josh Wicks in the first half to give Colorado the lead.
"It's the first time I scored two goals in my career," Namoff said. "I'm glad I had a chance to redeem myself."
With the win, D.C. stayed within a point of Chicago for first place in the conference while remaining tied with Columbus for second. With this contest, United will play three straight and five of six on the road, where they are 0-2-4 since a 3-2 victory against New York on April 26.
D.C. has scored only eight goals in its last six contests away from home, and having Jaimie Moreno back in the lineup might help.
After missing the previous three games with a hamstring injury, Moreno came in to start the second half last Saturday and scored on a penalty kick to tie the game. The goal was his sixth of the season.
San Jose (3-10-4), which is opening a four-game homestand, is looking to snap a three-game winless streak (0-2-1). The Earthquakes are coming off their fifth shutout loss of the season after allowing two second-half goals in a 2-0 defeat to Chicago last Saturday.
"To be honest, I can't believe we lost 2-0," coach Frank Yallop said. "We created some good chances and should have scored before they got their first goal.
"Our game plan was great, and I thought we defended the ball well other than a 30-second spell. Two breakdowns and two goals. That's the undoing of us."
San Jose is in last place in the Western Conference and is tied with New York for most goals allowed this season with 33. The Earthquakes given up 13 of those goals at home, where they are 3-3-2.
The Earthquakes and United split two meetings last season with each winning at home. San Jose is 7-2-4 all-time against United at home.
Seeking their first win away from home in nearly three months, United begins a three-game road trip Saturday night against the struggling San Jose Earthquakes.
D.C. (6-3-9) recorded its first win in more than a month last Saturday, beating Colorado 3-1. United had given up seven goals on an 0-1-2 road trip from June 17-July 4, but held Colorado to two shots and only allowed an own goal in the 14th minute.
They responded with three second-half scores including one by Bryan Namoff, who was responsible for putting the ball past Josh Wicks in the first half to give Colorado the lead.
"It's the first time I scored two goals in my career," Namoff said. "I'm glad I had a chance to redeem myself."
With the win, D.C. stayed within a point of Chicago for first place in the conference while remaining tied with Columbus for second. With this contest, United will play three straight and five of six on the road, where they are 0-2-4 since a 3-2 victory against New York on April 26.
D.C. has scored only eight goals in its last six contests away from home, and having Jaimie Moreno back in the lineup might help.
After missing the previous three games with a hamstring injury, Moreno came in to start the second half last Saturday and scored on a penalty kick to tie the game. The goal was his sixth of the season.
San Jose (3-10-4), which is opening a four-game homestand, is looking to snap a three-game winless streak (0-2-1). The Earthquakes are coming off their fifth shutout loss of the season after allowing two second-half goals in a 2-0 defeat to Chicago last Saturday.
"To be honest, I can't believe we lost 2-0," coach Frank Yallop said. "We created some good chances and should have scored before they got their first goal.
"Our game plan was great, and I thought we defended the ball well other than a 30-second spell. Two breakdowns and two goals. That's the undoing of us."
San Jose is in last place in the Western Conference and is tied with New York for most goals allowed this season with 33. The Earthquakes given up 13 of those goals at home, where they are 3-3-2.
The Earthquakes and United split two meetings last season with each winning at home. San Jose is 7-2-4 all-time against United at home.
Preview: Seattle vs. Chicago
The Seattle Sounders FC have put together an impressive debut season in MLS by accumulating the most points at home. The Chicago Fire, however, are atop the Eastern Conference thanks to the best road record.
The clubs will meet for the first time at Qwest Field on Saturday.
The expansion Sounders (7-3-7) are second in the West, four points behind first-place Houston. Of their 28 points, they've collected a league-leading 21 at home while going 6-1-3 with a 19-8 scoring advantage in front of sold-out crowds for each game.
That success has most evident during Seattle's seven-game (4-0-3) home unbeaten streak, capped by a 2-1 over the Dynamo on July 11. The Sounders haven't lost a league game at home since falling 1-0 to Kansas City on April 11.
They were defeated at Qwest Field though, in an exhibition match last Saturday, losing 2-0 to England's Chelsea in front of 65,289 fans. Seattle rebounded with another victory over Houston on Tuesday, as Stephen King scored five minutes into overtime to secure a 2-1 win and advance the team to the U.S. Open Cup final, where it'll visit reigning champion D.C. on Sept. 2.
"We try not to call ourselves an expansion team," said King, who was selected by Seattle from Chicago in November's expansion draft. "We can still reach all the goals we set at the beginning of the year."
The Fire (7-3-7) are 5-1-3 on the road and lead the East by one point over D.C. and Columbus and two over Toronto FC.
Chicago won for only the second time at home last Saturday, beating San Jose 2-0 in its first game without Brian McBride. The forward, who leads the team with six goals, was ruled out for up to four months after undergoing right shoulder surgery on July 17.
With McBride out, midfielder-forward Cuauhtemoc Blanco picked up the scoring slack, getting a goal and an assist in the final eight minutes. The Mexican playmaker has four goals and a team-high seven assists.
Chicago, though, will be without All-Star defender Bakary Soumare due to a one-game suspension for an accumulation of yellow cards. The club is also missing midfielder Logan Pause, who is with the U.S. national team at the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
"You have a deep roster and have to trust all the players you put on the field," Fire coach Denis Hamlett said.
Missing two of their top defensive players could be a problem for the Fire, who will have to contend with red-hot Fredy Montero.
The Sounders forward has found the back of the net in each of his last five MLS games, and his nine goals on the season are just one behind league-leader Guillermo Barros Schelotto of Columbus.
Chicago shut down Montero in a 1-all tie at home on May 2.
The Fire will likely have Patrick Nyarko starting at forward for a second consecutive game after he scored the eventual game-winner in the 82nd minute against San Jose. Nyarko, who has been used on the right side of midfield at times this season, has three goals in 17 games.
The clubs will meet for the first time at Qwest Field on Saturday.
The expansion Sounders (7-3-7) are second in the West, four points behind first-place Houston. Of their 28 points, they've collected a league-leading 21 at home while going 6-1-3 with a 19-8 scoring advantage in front of sold-out crowds for each game.
That success has most evident during Seattle's seven-game (4-0-3) home unbeaten streak, capped by a 2-1 over the Dynamo on July 11. The Sounders haven't lost a league game at home since falling 1-0 to Kansas City on April 11.
They were defeated at Qwest Field though, in an exhibition match last Saturday, losing 2-0 to England's Chelsea in front of 65,289 fans. Seattle rebounded with another victory over Houston on Tuesday, as Stephen King scored five minutes into overtime to secure a 2-1 win and advance the team to the U.S. Open Cup final, where it'll visit reigning champion D.C. on Sept. 2.
"We try not to call ourselves an expansion team," said King, who was selected by Seattle from Chicago in November's expansion draft. "We can still reach all the goals we set at the beginning of the year."
The Fire (7-3-7) are 5-1-3 on the road and lead the East by one point over D.C. and Columbus and two over Toronto FC.
Chicago won for only the second time at home last Saturday, beating San Jose 2-0 in its first game without Brian McBride. The forward, who leads the team with six goals, was ruled out for up to four months after undergoing right shoulder surgery on July 17.
With McBride out, midfielder-forward Cuauhtemoc Blanco picked up the scoring slack, getting a goal and an assist in the final eight minutes. The Mexican playmaker has four goals and a team-high seven assists.
Chicago, though, will be without All-Star defender Bakary Soumare due to a one-game suspension for an accumulation of yellow cards. The club is also missing midfielder Logan Pause, who is with the U.S. national team at the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
"You have a deep roster and have to trust all the players you put on the field," Fire coach Denis Hamlett said.
Missing two of their top defensive players could be a problem for the Fire, who will have to contend with red-hot Fredy Montero.
The Sounders forward has found the back of the net in each of his last five MLS games, and his nine goals on the season are just one behind league-leader Guillermo Barros Schelotto of Columbus.
Chicago shut down Montero in a 1-all tie at home on May 2.
The Fire will likely have Patrick Nyarko starting at forward for a second consecutive game after he scored the eventual game-winner in the 82nd minute against San Jose. Nyarko, who has been used on the right side of midfield at times this season, has three goals in 17 games.
Preview: Houston vs. New England
The Houston Dynamo defeated the New England Revolution to win MLS Cup titles in 2006 and '07, but they didn't get their first regular-season win over the Revs until the clubs' first meeting this year.
Returning home should improve their chances of completing the sweep.
The MLS-leading Dynamo look to remain unbeaten at Robertson Stadium on Saturday night when they host the Revolution, who haven't lost in three trips to Houston.
Houston (9-4-5) won the MLS Cup in each of its first two seasons of existence, beating New England (5-5-5) both times. The Dynamo, however, were 0-3-3 against the Revolution during the regular season - 0-2-1 at home - before winning 2-0 on the road May 3.
Stuart Holden and Brian Ching scored for Houston, while New England managed only three shots - one on goal - as it played without stars Taylor Twellman and Steve Ralston.
The Dynamo will also be missing key players Saturday, as Holden and Ching are with the U.S. national team for the CONCACAF Gold Cup. New England's Jay Heaps won't play for the same reason.
Twellman remains sidelined for the Revolution because of a concussion. New England, though, got a key player back when Shalrie Joseph returned Sunday after a two-game absence due to a knee injury.
After sitting out the entire first half, the midfielder - tied for the team lead with five goals and first on the club with five assists - set up Kheli Dube's go-ahead goal in the 61st minute and New England went on to beat Chivas USA 2-0.
"He helped us a lot holding the ball," Dube said of Joseph's controlling of the midfield during the second half. "Playing with a big guy like that, he gives you opportunities."
Dube's goal was New England's first in MLS play since Joseph scored in the 28th minute of a 3-1 loss at Kansas City on June 13. The Revolution finished with 13 shots Sunday, five on goal.
With Joseph directing the offense, they placed four of their eight second-half shots on goal.
"It's a matter of just keeping possession, then moving the ball," Joseph said. "We started off flat and me coming in, it gave them (teammates) a lift."
The Dynamo are playing their first MLS home match since a 1-1 draw with Real Salt Lake on June 20. They're 5-0-3 at Robertson Stadium but went 1-2-1 during a stretch of four straight on the road.
Houston managed to salvage a 1-1 tie with Toronto FC in its most recent match last Saturday. Defender Bobby Boswell scored the tying goal in the 75th minute off his own rebound, his first goal of the year and second in 46 games spanning two seasons with Houston.
"Goals come from a lot of places," coach Dominic Kinnear told the team's official Web site. "... (Boswell) was just so alert in both boxes today, and (he) understands the value of playing his role at both ends of the field, in defensive positions but also on attack."
Returning home should improve their chances of completing the sweep.
The MLS-leading Dynamo look to remain unbeaten at Robertson Stadium on Saturday night when they host the Revolution, who haven't lost in three trips to Houston.
Houston (9-4-5) won the MLS Cup in each of its first two seasons of existence, beating New England (5-5-5) both times. The Dynamo, however, were 0-3-3 against the Revolution during the regular season - 0-2-1 at home - before winning 2-0 on the road May 3.
Stuart Holden and Brian Ching scored for Houston, while New England managed only three shots - one on goal - as it played without stars Taylor Twellman and Steve Ralston.
The Dynamo will also be missing key players Saturday, as Holden and Ching are with the U.S. national team for the CONCACAF Gold Cup. New England's Jay Heaps won't play for the same reason.
Twellman remains sidelined for the Revolution because of a concussion. New England, though, got a key player back when Shalrie Joseph returned Sunday after a two-game absence due to a knee injury.
After sitting out the entire first half, the midfielder - tied for the team lead with five goals and first on the club with five assists - set up Kheli Dube's go-ahead goal in the 61st minute and New England went on to beat Chivas USA 2-0.
"He helped us a lot holding the ball," Dube said of Joseph's controlling of the midfield during the second half. "Playing with a big guy like that, he gives you opportunities."
Dube's goal was New England's first in MLS play since Joseph scored in the 28th minute of a 3-1 loss at Kansas City on June 13. The Revolution finished with 13 shots Sunday, five on goal.
With Joseph directing the offense, they placed four of their eight second-half shots on goal.
"It's a matter of just keeping possession, then moving the ball," Joseph said. "We started off flat and me coming in, it gave them (teammates) a lift."
The Dynamo are playing their first MLS home match since a 1-1 draw with Real Salt Lake on June 20. They're 5-0-3 at Robertson Stadium but went 1-2-1 during a stretch of four straight on the road.
Houston managed to salvage a 1-1 tie with Toronto FC in its most recent match last Saturday. Defender Bobby Boswell scored the tying goal in the 75th minute off his own rebound, his first goal of the year and second in 46 games spanning two seasons with Houston.
"Goals come from a lot of places," coach Dominic Kinnear told the team's official Web site. "... (Boswell) was just so alert in both boxes today, and (he) understands the value of playing his role at both ends of the field, in defensive positions but also on attack."
Preview: Salt Lake vs. Dallas
It's been three months since Real Salt Lake recorded the most lopsided win in franchise history. Since then, they've won just twice and once at home.
Salt Lake will try to enter the All-Star break on a positive note Friday night when its hosts FC Dallas.
RSL (5-7-5) got goals from six players to beat New England 6-0 on April 25, capping a three-game winning streak at Rio Tinto Stadium for a 3-2-0 start this season.
Real, however, followed by going 2-5-5 over the next 12 games and 1-1-2 as host. That stretch has dropped it into sixth place in the Western Conference, seven points behind Los Angeles and Chivas USA, which are tied for the final playoff position.
Salt Lake's troubles continued Saturday, falling 3-1 at Columbus despite outshooting the reigning MLS Cup champion 16-10.
"We created the right number of chances, no doubt about it," RSL coach Jason Kreis told the team's official Web site. "We had some pretty clear chances that we felt pretty bad about not scoring early on. If we had taken some of those early chances it might have been a different game."
Kreis is expected to have Will Johnson and Fabian Espindola back while Kyle Beckerman misses a third game in a row due to the U.S. national team's participation in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Johnson has missed the last three games while competing with Canada at the Gold Cup, where it was eliminated with a 1-0 loss to Honduras in the quarterfinals on Saturday. The midfielder has one goal and one assist while playing a more defensive role with RSL.
Espindola is returning from a one-game, red-card suspension for retaliating against defender Brandon McDonald in a 1-all tie with San Jose on July 3. The forward has just one goal and one assist in nine games after finding the back of the net a career-high five times last year.
Salt Lake went 2-0-1 against Dallas (4-8-5) last season, winning both games at home.
FCD, seventh in the West and three points back of Real, is returning from a long layoff after losing 1-0 at Colorado on July 11.
Dallas, which is 1-5-2 as the visitor, may have Dario Sala back in goal after a knee injury ruled him out of the last 15 games. He started Wednesday's 2-0 win over CSD Comunicaciones of Guatemala in a friendly, and claims to feel healthy following surgery on a torn meniscus in April.
"I felt better than I expected before the game," Sala told the team's official Web site. "I wasn't sure I would be kicking at 100 percent but after the first couple of kicks, I felt good. I was kicking the ball 80 yards and pushing it. I don't feel like I took two months off. I'm pain free."
Dallas, though, may continue starting Ray Burse, who is 4-7-5 with a 1.46 goals-against average and a shutout in 16 games - 15 starts - in place of Sala.
Salt Lake will try to enter the All-Star break on a positive note Friday night when its hosts FC Dallas.
RSL (5-7-5) got goals from six players to beat New England 6-0 on April 25, capping a three-game winning streak at Rio Tinto Stadium for a 3-2-0 start this season.
Real, however, followed by going 2-5-5 over the next 12 games and 1-1-2 as host. That stretch has dropped it into sixth place in the Western Conference, seven points behind Los Angeles and Chivas USA, which are tied for the final playoff position.
Salt Lake's troubles continued Saturday, falling 3-1 at Columbus despite outshooting the reigning MLS Cup champion 16-10.
"We created the right number of chances, no doubt about it," RSL coach Jason Kreis told the team's official Web site. "We had some pretty clear chances that we felt pretty bad about not scoring early on. If we had taken some of those early chances it might have been a different game."
Kreis is expected to have Will Johnson and Fabian Espindola back while Kyle Beckerman misses a third game in a row due to the U.S. national team's participation in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Johnson has missed the last three games while competing with Canada at the Gold Cup, where it was eliminated with a 1-0 loss to Honduras in the quarterfinals on Saturday. The midfielder has one goal and one assist while playing a more defensive role with RSL.
Espindola is returning from a one-game, red-card suspension for retaliating against defender Brandon McDonald in a 1-all tie with San Jose on July 3. The forward has just one goal and one assist in nine games after finding the back of the net a career-high five times last year.
Salt Lake went 2-0-1 against Dallas (4-8-5) last season, winning both games at home.
FCD, seventh in the West and three points back of Real, is returning from a long layoff after losing 1-0 at Colorado on July 11.
Dallas, which is 1-5-2 as the visitor, may have Dario Sala back in goal after a knee injury ruled him out of the last 15 games. He started Wednesday's 2-0 win over CSD Comunicaciones of Guatemala in a friendly, and claims to feel healthy following surgery on a torn meniscus in April.
"I felt better than I expected before the game," Sala told the team's official Web site. "I wasn't sure I would be kicking at 100 percent but after the first couple of kicks, I felt good. I was kicking the ball 80 yards and pushing it. I don't feel like I took two months off. I'm pain free."
Dallas, though, may continue starting Ray Burse, who is 4-7-5 with a 1.46 goals-against average and a shutout in 16 games - 15 starts - in place of Sala.
Maradona: 'We're playing for our lives'
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) - Diego Maradona said Friday what every Argentine football fan already knows - the next World Cup qualifier against archrival Brazil is critical.
"We're playing for our lives against Brazil. It's going to be a very tough game," Argentina's coach said on local television about the Sept. 5 match.
At Maradona's urging, the match will be played in Rosario, located about 300 kilometers (180 miles) northwest of Buenos Aires.
Argentine officials and FIFA officials approved moving the match from River Plate's Monumental Stadium after Maradona complained about the state of the playing surface.
Maradona described the field at Monumental Stadium as "disastrous" and a "pasture" before a 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Colombia on June 6. He also said the place needed a paint job.
But many considered his criticism biased as Monumental is the home of River Plate, the archrival of Boca Juniors, Maradona's old team.
With four rounds left in South American qualifying, Argentina holds the fourth and final automatic qualifying spot.
The group is led by Brazil on 27 points, Chile on 26 and Paraguay on 24, with Argentina on 22 points and facing competition from Ecuador (20), Uruguay (18), Colombia (17) and Venezuela (17).
The team finishing fifth plays the fourth-place team from North and Central America and the Caribbean for a spot at next year's tournament in South Africa.
Argentina's two remaining home qualifiers are on Sept. 5 against Brazil and Oct. 10 versus Peru. Argentina has away matches on Sept. 8 in Paraguay and Oct. 13 in Uruguay.
"We're playing for our lives against Brazil. It's going to be a very tough game," Argentina's coach said on local television about the Sept. 5 match.
At Maradona's urging, the match will be played in Rosario, located about 300 kilometers (180 miles) northwest of Buenos Aires.
Argentine officials and FIFA officials approved moving the match from River Plate's Monumental Stadium after Maradona complained about the state of the playing surface.
Maradona described the field at Monumental Stadium as "disastrous" and a "pasture" before a 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Colombia on June 6. He also said the place needed a paint job.
But many considered his criticism biased as Monumental is the home of River Plate, the archrival of Boca Juniors, Maradona's old team.
With four rounds left in South American qualifying, Argentina holds the fourth and final automatic qualifying spot.
The group is led by Brazil on 27 points, Chile on 26 and Paraguay on 24, with Argentina on 22 points and facing competition from Ecuador (20), Uruguay (18), Colombia (17) and Venezuela (17).
The team finishing fifth plays the fourth-place team from North and Central America and the Caribbean for a spot at next year's tournament in South Africa.
Argentina's two remaining home qualifiers are on Sept. 5 against Brazil and Oct. 10 versus Peru. Argentina has away matches on Sept. 8 in Paraguay and Oct. 13 in Uruguay.
Flamengo fires Stival Cuca as coach
RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (AP) - Flamengo has fired coach Stival Cuca after a series of poor results.
Flamengo vice president Kleber Leite said Friday that Cuca was let go a day earlier.
On Wednesday, Flamengo drew 1-1 with Barueri to leave Brazil's most popular club 11th out of 20 teams in the first division. Fans at the game chanted "goodbye Cuca."
Cuca took over in December and guided the team to the Rio de Janeiro state championship.
Assistant coach Andrade will take over the club and will be in charge for this weekend's match with Santos.
Flamengo vice president Kleber Leite said Friday that Cuca was let go a day earlier.
On Wednesday, Flamengo drew 1-1 with Barueri to leave Brazil's most popular club 11th out of 20 teams in the first division. Fans at the game chanted "goodbye Cuca."
Cuca took over in December and guided the team to the Rio de Janeiro state championship.
Assistant coach Andrade will take over the club and will be in charge for this weekend's match with Santos.
Martinez will be success - Bramble
Wigan defender Titus Bramble is confident Latics can succeed under Roberto Martinez as they spend pre-season getting used to his methods.
Martinez joined the Latics from Swansea following Steve Bruce's decision to leave for Sunderland, and while Bramble accepts it may take a while to get used to his methods, he feels it will be of benefit in the long-term.
Last season's Player of the Year is relishing the season opener against Aston Villa on August 15 but insists his Spanish boss has to sign new players sooner rather than later so the squad can get used to each other's style of play.
"We saw in January that when we signed new players, it took a while for the side to gel," Bramble told the club's official website. "So hopefully the sooner the manager can bring in players, the better.
"We're looking forward to the new season as the manager has brought some fresh ideas to the club.
"Brucie's regime was different to the new gaffer's, but that's what pre-season is for - it gives you a chance to get used to things."
Martinez joined the Latics from Swansea following Steve Bruce's decision to leave for Sunderland, and while Bramble accepts it may take a while to get used to his methods, he feels it will be of benefit in the long-term.
Last season's Player of the Year is relishing the season opener against Aston Villa on August 15 but insists his Spanish boss has to sign new players sooner rather than later so the squad can get used to each other's style of play.
"We saw in January that when we signed new players, it took a while for the side to gel," Bramble told the club's official website. "So hopefully the sooner the manager can bring in players, the better.
"We're looking forward to the new season as the manager has brought some fresh ideas to the club.
"Brucie's regime was different to the new gaffer's, but that's what pre-season is for - it gives you a chance to get used to things."
City made to wait for taste of Tevez
Manchester City fans will have to wait to see Carlos Tevez in blue after he was left out of the squad to play Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday.
The Argentina striker, who joined City early last week and linked up with the squad last Friday, is still struggling with a heel injury and Mark Hughes does not want to risk his £25million signing in the Vodacom Challenge final in South Africa.
"It is a shame for him, for us and for the South African public but unfortunately these things happen," said Hughes.
"Carlos has had a continual problem with his heel and we had it checked yesterday. He is probably going to miss a week of training."
However, fellow new signing Emmanuel Adebayor, who completed a £25million move from Arsenal on Saturday, and Robinho, fresh from his honeymoon, are set to play some part on Saturday after both arrived in South Africa in midweek.
"We have checked Emmanuel out and he has looked good so far, his fitness levels are fine and he could play a significant part tomorrow," Hughes told mcfc.co.uk.
City beat the Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 on Tuesday night but the South African side qualified for the final by defeating Orlando Pirates in a penalty shoot-out on Thursday.
The Argentina striker, who joined City early last week and linked up with the squad last Friday, is still struggling with a heel injury and Mark Hughes does not want to risk his £25million signing in the Vodacom Challenge final in South Africa.
"It is a shame for him, for us and for the South African public but unfortunately these things happen," said Hughes.
"Carlos has had a continual problem with his heel and we had it checked yesterday. He is probably going to miss a week of training."
However, fellow new signing Emmanuel Adebayor, who completed a £25million move from Arsenal on Saturday, and Robinho, fresh from his honeymoon, are set to play some part on Saturday after both arrived in South Africa in midweek.
"We have checked Emmanuel out and he has looked good so far, his fitness levels are fine and he could play a significant part tomorrow," Hughes told mcfc.co.uk.
City beat the Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 on Tuesday night but the South African side qualified for the final by defeating Orlando Pirates in a penalty shoot-out on Thursday.
Finnan looks set for Premier return
Steve Finnan has been linked with a return to the Premier League after Espanyol revealed they are in talks to cancel the full-back's contract.
Finnan only joined the Spanish side from Liverpool last summer, but struggled with injuries during his debut season in La Liga.
He was close to a move to Hull City during the January transfer window and is now being lined up for a move back to England, with Portsmouth, Stoke City, Sunderland and Wolves all linked with the 33-year-old.
The club's sporting director Ramon Planas has confirmed discussions are ongoing regarding a deal to tear up the final 12 months of Finnan's deal.
"We are negotiating to cancel his contract," Planas told the Spanish media.
"Hopefully we can reach an agreement which works for everybody."
Finnan only joined the Spanish side from Liverpool last summer, but struggled with injuries during his debut season in La Liga.
He was close to a move to Hull City during the January transfer window and is now being lined up for a move back to England, with Portsmouth, Stoke City, Sunderland and Wolves all linked with the 33-year-old.
The club's sporting director Ramon Planas has confirmed discussions are ongoing regarding a deal to tear up the final 12 months of Finnan's deal.
"We are negotiating to cancel his contract," Planas told the Spanish media.
"Hopefully we can reach an agreement which works for everybody."
Carr relishing Premier League return
Birmingham defender Stephen Carr is relishing another crack at the Premier League - after deciding to retire at the start of last season.
Carr opted to hang up his boots at the end of his contract with Newcastle but was persuaded by Blues boss Alex McLeish to make a comeback during the second half of last season.
The former Tottenham player made a significant contribution to City's promotion campaign and was rewarded with a new two-year contract this summer.
The 32-year-old said: "I've got another opportunity, one that I have to admit I never thought would come again when I retired last year because there was no-one interested in me.
"It will be great to play in the Premier League again and I'm very grateful to the club for giving me that chance.
"Football can be funny like that. One minute there are no offers at all on the table and then the next I'm preparing for Premier League football again."
Carr is aware of the need for Birmingham to gradually improve during their pre-season preparations ahead of the opening Premier League clash at Manchester United on August 15.
Blues suffered their second successive defeat when they were beaten 2-0 by FC Augsburg during their tour of Austria.
Carr said: "At this stage of pre-season it's all about getting the minutes in. Of course, we want to win too and that's why it was disappointing to lose to Augsburg.
"There's no doubt the fact that they were playing their fifth pre-season match and us only our second was a factor in terms of sharpness.
"But the quality has to be better from us and that's what we'll be looking for come Sunday when we play our next game (versus Al Hilal)."
Carr opted to hang up his boots at the end of his contract with Newcastle but was persuaded by Blues boss Alex McLeish to make a comeback during the second half of last season.
The former Tottenham player made a significant contribution to City's promotion campaign and was rewarded with a new two-year contract this summer.
The 32-year-old said: "I've got another opportunity, one that I have to admit I never thought would come again when I retired last year because there was no-one interested in me.
"It will be great to play in the Premier League again and I'm very grateful to the club for giving me that chance.
"Football can be funny like that. One minute there are no offers at all on the table and then the next I'm preparing for Premier League football again."
Carr is aware of the need for Birmingham to gradually improve during their pre-season preparations ahead of the opening Premier League clash at Manchester United on August 15.
Blues suffered their second successive defeat when they were beaten 2-0 by FC Augsburg during their tour of Austria.
Carr said: "At this stage of pre-season it's all about getting the minutes in. Of course, we want to win too and that's why it was disappointing to lose to Augsburg.
"There's no doubt the fact that they were playing their fifth pre-season match and us only our second was a factor in terms of sharpness.
"But the quality has to be better from us and that's what we'll be looking for come Sunday when we play our next game (versus Al Hilal)."
Potters pounce on Cats midfielder
Stoke have completed the signing of Sunderland midfielder Dean Whitehead for an initial fee of £3million, which could rise to £5million.
The 27-year-old, who had been in talks with the Potters for some time and did not fly out to the Algarve with the rest of the Black Cats squad this week, has agreed a four-year contract.
Whitehead, who has ended a five-year spell at the Stadium of Light, will be reunited with former Sunderland team-mates Liam Lawrence, Rory Delap and Danny Higginbotham and another ex-Black Cat in goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen.
He is unlikely to make his Stoke debut in Saturday's friendly at Preston North End, however, after a hold up with his registration paperwork prevented him from being officially unveiled until Friday afternoon.
"I'm delighted to be here. I've known of the club's interest for about six months or so now so it has gone on for a while," said Whitehead.
"But like I say everything is sorted now and I'm very happy it's all done and dusted.
"The manager (Tony Pulis) has been brilliant, I have spoken to him a few times. He has great plans for this place and as soon as I heard what he said I wanted to be part of it.
"Last year was a fantastic season for everyone here and hopefully I can help push the club on even more."
The midfielder told Stoke City World: "There are a few lads here I already know which I'm sure will help me settle in.
"I know Lenny (Lawrence) very well and we know each other's games inside out so hopefully we can show that on the pitch and work well together here."
Pulis said the signing of Whitehead, who made almost 200 appearances for Sunderland, showed the Potters can be a force to be reckoned with in their second Premier League campaign.
"Dean is a fantastic player and a great acquisition for this football club," he said.
"He is someone I and my backroom staff have admired for a long time and to have managed to have brought him here signals our intent for the upcoming season.
"Dean is a box-to-box midfielder who has a great engine and he is a player I am looking forward to working with."
Chief executive Tony Scholes added: "We are delighted to have completed our first major signing of the summer transfer window.
"Dean is a player who possesses plenty of top-flight experience and has proven leadership qualities having captained Sunderland for the past few years."
The 27-year-old, who had been in talks with the Potters for some time and did not fly out to the Algarve with the rest of the Black Cats squad this week, has agreed a four-year contract.
Whitehead, who has ended a five-year spell at the Stadium of Light, will be reunited with former Sunderland team-mates Liam Lawrence, Rory Delap and Danny Higginbotham and another ex-Black Cat in goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen.
He is unlikely to make his Stoke debut in Saturday's friendly at Preston North End, however, after a hold up with his registration paperwork prevented him from being officially unveiled until Friday afternoon.
"I'm delighted to be here. I've known of the club's interest for about six months or so now so it has gone on for a while," said Whitehead.
"But like I say everything is sorted now and I'm very happy it's all done and dusted.
"The manager (Tony Pulis) has been brilliant, I have spoken to him a few times. He has great plans for this place and as soon as I heard what he said I wanted to be part of it.
"Last year was a fantastic season for everyone here and hopefully I can help push the club on even more."
The midfielder told Stoke City World: "There are a few lads here I already know which I'm sure will help me settle in.
"I know Lenny (Lawrence) very well and we know each other's games inside out so hopefully we can show that on the pitch and work well together here."
Pulis said the signing of Whitehead, who made almost 200 appearances for Sunderland, showed the Potters can be a force to be reckoned with in their second Premier League campaign.
"Dean is a fantastic player and a great acquisition for this football club," he said.
"He is someone I and my backroom staff have admired for a long time and to have managed to have brought him here signals our intent for the upcoming season.
"Dean is a box-to-box midfielder who has a great engine and he is a player I am looking forward to working with."
Chief executive Tony Scholes added: "We are delighted to have completed our first major signing of the summer transfer window.
"Dean is a player who possesses plenty of top-flight experience and has proven leadership qualities having captained Sunderland for the past few years."
Dortmund agrees transfer of striker Lucas Barrios
DORTMUND, Germany (AP) - Borussia Dortmund agreed the transfer of Argentine striker Lucas Barrios from Chile first division side Colo Colo on Friday.
Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc confirmed the deal but said Barrios still needs to pass a medical.
Neither Dortmund nor Colo Colo disclosed any further details.
According to reports in Chile, Dortmund will pay $6 million for the 24-year-old forward, who played 66 matches for Colo Colo in two years, scoring 58 goals.
"I'm satisfied, but I do not want to talk much about this until I undergo the medical tests," Barrios told Radio Cooperativa in Santiago.
Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc confirmed the deal but said Barrios still needs to pass a medical.
Neither Dortmund nor Colo Colo disclosed any further details.
According to reports in Chile, Dortmund will pay $6 million for the 24-year-old forward, who played 66 matches for Colo Colo in two years, scoring 58 goals.
"I'm satisfied, but I do not want to talk much about this until I undergo the medical tests," Barrios told Radio Cooperativa in Santiago.
United fightback for friendly win
Manchester United battled to a hard-earned 3-2 victory over FC Seoul, with Wayne Rooney, Federico Macheda and Dimitar Berbatov among the goals.
That United came from behind twice to beat the hosts was a fact almost irrelevant to a capacity crowd, who wanted only to see Park Ji-sung playing in Korea in a United shirt for the first time.
Time and again when Park's face was flashed on big screens at both ends of the stadium, the home supporters made it perfectly clear what they wanted to see. They even booed when Park's face disappeared to be replaced by the match taking place in front of them.
Park is the embodiment of South Korea's passion for the beautiful game, and after a knee injury robbed him of the chance to play on tour two years ago, this time, despite his delayed start to pre-season, he did not let them down, entering the fray after 73 minutes as a substitute.
Some players on this tour have more to gain that others.
Rooney for instance is an automatic choice in any strong United line-up, so his first-half equaliser was merely confirmation of his well-being.
Macheda on the other hand, has some proving to do.
At 17, nobody is expecting the Italian to be the finished article.
However, Ferguson will be placing an immense amount of trust in the young Italian if, as has been pledged, he hands him the fourth striker's berth this season.
In these warm-up games, Macheda has done his cause no harm at all, particularly in the latest and undoubtedly most competitive of the four matches United will complete in the Far East.
After delivering a decent left-wing cross that Ryan Giggs completely missed and failing to control an astute pass from the Welshman that would have set him up for the type of spectacular curling effort that he announced his arrival with against Aston Villa last season, Macheda found the net just after half-time.
Strike partner Rooney supplied the killer cross field pass, which sent the teenager scampering clear of a static Seoul defence. The cool way he took his chance justified Ferguson's belief that Macheda is the best finisher at United, better even than Michael Owen.
The goal brought the Red Devils level, just as Rooney had done earlier when he headed home John O'Shea's cross after Dejan Damjanovic had opened the scoring.
Macheda's goal allowed him to draw level with Rooney and Owen as tour top scorer on two. Berbatov did not have any to his name before he popped up with the winner.
A patchy debut season from United's £30.75million record signing has left a lot of supporters unconvinced. The fact his arrival coincided with Carlos Tevez's disenchantment and subsequent departure for Manchester City only makes the situation worse.
Yet Berbatov does have talent, although getting the best of him has taken Ferguson longer than he would have liked.
Nevertheless, his neat headed finish from Darron Gibson's cross was very welcome on a personal level, in addition to giving United a deserved victory.
That United came from behind twice to beat the hosts was a fact almost irrelevant to a capacity crowd, who wanted only to see Park Ji-sung playing in Korea in a United shirt for the first time.
Time and again when Park's face was flashed on big screens at both ends of the stadium, the home supporters made it perfectly clear what they wanted to see. They even booed when Park's face disappeared to be replaced by the match taking place in front of them.
Park is the embodiment of South Korea's passion for the beautiful game, and after a knee injury robbed him of the chance to play on tour two years ago, this time, despite his delayed start to pre-season, he did not let them down, entering the fray after 73 minutes as a substitute.
Some players on this tour have more to gain that others.
Rooney for instance is an automatic choice in any strong United line-up, so his first-half equaliser was merely confirmation of his well-being.
Macheda on the other hand, has some proving to do.
At 17, nobody is expecting the Italian to be the finished article.
However, Ferguson will be placing an immense amount of trust in the young Italian if, as has been pledged, he hands him the fourth striker's berth this season.
In these warm-up games, Macheda has done his cause no harm at all, particularly in the latest and undoubtedly most competitive of the four matches United will complete in the Far East.
After delivering a decent left-wing cross that Ryan Giggs completely missed and failing to control an astute pass from the Welshman that would have set him up for the type of spectacular curling effort that he announced his arrival with against Aston Villa last season, Macheda found the net just after half-time.
Strike partner Rooney supplied the killer cross field pass, which sent the teenager scampering clear of a static Seoul defence. The cool way he took his chance justified Ferguson's belief that Macheda is the best finisher at United, better even than Michael Owen.
The goal brought the Red Devils level, just as Rooney had done earlier when he headed home John O'Shea's cross after Dejan Damjanovic had opened the scoring.
Macheda's goal allowed him to draw level with Rooney and Owen as tour top scorer on two. Berbatov did not have any to his name before he popped up with the winner.
A patchy debut season from United's £30.75million record signing has left a lot of supporters unconvinced. The fact his arrival coincided with Carlos Tevez's disenchantment and subsequent departure for Manchester City only makes the situation worse.
Yet Berbatov does have talent, although getting the best of him has taken Ferguson longer than he would have liked.
Nevertheless, his neat headed finish from Darron Gibson's cross was very welcome on a personal level, in addition to giving United a deserved victory.
Albanian tycoon buys Bologna football club
TIRANA, Albania (AP) - Albanian businessman Rezart Taci has bought a majority stake in Serie A club Bologna.
The businessman, who runs Albanian oil company Taci Oil International, says he paid €43 million ($61 million) to buy 80 percent of the club in a deal that will take effect on Aug. 3.
Bologna's official Web site also announced Friday's deal, but did not disclose financial terms.
Taci told a local television station that the acquisition could serve as a "window of opportunity" for talented Albanian players.
Taci Oil International is part of a U.S.-Swiss consortium that last year bought 85 percent of state oil company ARMO with €128.6 million ($183 million).
The businessman, who runs Albanian oil company Taci Oil International, says he paid €43 million ($61 million) to buy 80 percent of the club in a deal that will take effect on Aug. 3.
Bologna's official Web site also announced Friday's deal, but did not disclose financial terms.
Taci told a local television station that the acquisition could serve as a "window of opportunity" for talented Albanian players.
Taci Oil International is part of a U.S.-Swiss consortium that last year bought 85 percent of state oil company ARMO with €128.6 million ($183 million).
Benitez boosted by Gerrard verdict
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is delighted his captain Steven Gerrard can now "focus on football" after being cleared of affray on Friday.
This has not been the smoothest of pre-seasons for Benitez, and the Far East tour this week has been dogged by a succession of problems.
Injuries to Martin Skrtel and Nabil El Zhar which forced the players to return to England for treatment have come on top of the continued transfer saga surrounding Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano and Alvaro Arbeloa.
But as he prepared his side for Sunday's friendly against Singapore, Benitez was relieved that the cloud hanging over Gerrard has now been swept away after he was acquitted at Liverpool Crown Court following an incident in Southport on December 29 last year.
Gerrard has missed the Far East trip because of the week-long trial, and will be reunited with his team-mates next week when Liverpool return to the UK.
Benitez was told of Gerrard's acquittal during a training session today and said: "We are really pleased. He is very important for us and he can now focus just on football.
"We are all pleased at the club and over here at the training camp.
We have been supporting him all the time and were just waiting for the decision. Now he can concentrate just on football and hopefully play at the same level as last year."
Benitez also confirmed that Real Madrid target Alonso was fit following an ankle injury and ready to play against Singapore.
Benitez, who also has Yossi Benayoun back from an ankle problem, said: "I am very happy to have Yossi and Xabi back. They are working very hard, the tempo of the session was fantastic and the fans really enjoyed it.
"We are trying to step up our training every day, especially for the international players. Today we had three teams playing against each other. It was good competition and pleasing for me to see."
New signing Glen Johnson may miss out on Sunday's game as he recovers from an Achilles injury. Benitez said: "We are being careful with Glen, we do not want to do any further damage."
Liverpool's financial problems also seem to be heading towards an agreement between owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett with the Royal Bank of Scotland and Wachovia over extending the �350million loans that were due to be paid on Friday.
The Americans have been negotiating for an extension for several months and an indication of the banks' general agreement has been underlined by the fact that today's deadline will be allowed to lapse.
Sources close to the negotiations say there will be no announcement on Friday or over the weekend, and that a statement may be issued next week.
That approach to the potential crisis from the banks underlines the belief that nobody wants to see loans called in and one of the world's biggest clubs coming, effectively, under the control of the Government who own a majority share in RBS now.
Talks between Hicks, Gillett and RBS have been ongoing for months, and although the deadline will not be complied with, both sides appear relaxed.
A source insisted that the deadline should be treated as fairly fluid, with negotiations continuing.
Last month RBS took the unprecedented step of writing to Liverpool's supporters to justify continuing financial support of the club's American co-owners.
The bank had been flooded with e-mails from fans calling for the plug to be pulled on Hicks and Gillett's debt.
Now discussions on refinancing the loan are understood to be progressing well, with the sending of the e-mail virtual confirmation that the loan will be refinanced.
The message from RBS said that the bank has a "long-term relationship with the club, and we look forward to this continuing for many years to come".
It added: "In our view, and that of the executive management of the club, it is financially healthy and able to service comfortably its debt obligations from cash flow generated by playing matches and commercial activities."
Liverpool are paying �40million a year in interest, but this is being serviced without serious problem, although Benitez's transfer budget is clearly being affected.
The RBS e-mail continued: "It is in our commercial interest to support the club, so that it can continue to perform successfully on and off the pitch.
"RBS is the main banker to the club including all of its operating accounts, cash management, online banking, automated payments, and credit card processing to facilitate ticket sales and retail merchandising.
"We also lent money to the club's parent, Kop Football Ltd, so that it could repay debt which was on the balance sheet of the club at the time of acquisition.
"This is the only portion of Kop Football's bank debt for which the club is legally responsible."
This has not been the smoothest of pre-seasons for Benitez, and the Far East tour this week has been dogged by a succession of problems.
Injuries to Martin Skrtel and Nabil El Zhar which forced the players to return to England for treatment have come on top of the continued transfer saga surrounding Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano and Alvaro Arbeloa.
But as he prepared his side for Sunday's friendly against Singapore, Benitez was relieved that the cloud hanging over Gerrard has now been swept away after he was acquitted at Liverpool Crown Court following an incident in Southport on December 29 last year.
Gerrard has missed the Far East trip because of the week-long trial, and will be reunited with his team-mates next week when Liverpool return to the UK.
Benitez was told of Gerrard's acquittal during a training session today and said: "We are really pleased. He is very important for us and he can now focus just on football.
"We are all pleased at the club and over here at the training camp.
We have been supporting him all the time and were just waiting for the decision. Now he can concentrate just on football and hopefully play at the same level as last year."
Benitez also confirmed that Real Madrid target Alonso was fit following an ankle injury and ready to play against Singapore.
Benitez, who also has Yossi Benayoun back from an ankle problem, said: "I am very happy to have Yossi and Xabi back. They are working very hard, the tempo of the session was fantastic and the fans really enjoyed it.
"We are trying to step up our training every day, especially for the international players. Today we had three teams playing against each other. It was good competition and pleasing for me to see."
New signing Glen Johnson may miss out on Sunday's game as he recovers from an Achilles injury. Benitez said: "We are being careful with Glen, we do not want to do any further damage."
Liverpool's financial problems also seem to be heading towards an agreement between owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett with the Royal Bank of Scotland and Wachovia over extending the �350million loans that were due to be paid on Friday.
The Americans have been negotiating for an extension for several months and an indication of the banks' general agreement has been underlined by the fact that today's deadline will be allowed to lapse.
Sources close to the negotiations say there will be no announcement on Friday or over the weekend, and that a statement may be issued next week.
That approach to the potential crisis from the banks underlines the belief that nobody wants to see loans called in and one of the world's biggest clubs coming, effectively, under the control of the Government who own a majority share in RBS now.
Talks between Hicks, Gillett and RBS have been ongoing for months, and although the deadline will not be complied with, both sides appear relaxed.
A source insisted that the deadline should be treated as fairly fluid, with negotiations continuing.
Last month RBS took the unprecedented step of writing to Liverpool's supporters to justify continuing financial support of the club's American co-owners.
The bank had been flooded with e-mails from fans calling for the plug to be pulled on Hicks and Gillett's debt.
Now discussions on refinancing the loan are understood to be progressing well, with the sending of the e-mail virtual confirmation that the loan will be refinanced.
The message from RBS said that the bank has a "long-term relationship with the club, and we look forward to this continuing for many years to come".
It added: "In our view, and that of the executive management of the club, it is financially healthy and able to service comfortably its debt obligations from cash flow generated by playing matches and commercial activities."
Liverpool are paying �40million a year in interest, but this is being serviced without serious problem, although Benitez's transfer budget is clearly being affected.
The RBS e-mail continued: "It is in our commercial interest to support the club, so that it can continue to perform successfully on and off the pitch.
"RBS is the main banker to the club including all of its operating accounts, cash management, online banking, automated payments, and credit card processing to facilitate ticket sales and retail merchandising.
"We also lent money to the club's parent, Kop Football Ltd, so that it could repay debt which was on the balance sheet of the club at the time of acquisition.
"This is the only portion of Kop Football's bank debt for which the club is legally responsible."
Granero takes pay cut to join Real Madrid
MADRID (AP) - Esteban Granero did something none of his new "galactico" teammates did to join Real Madrid this offseason - he took a pay cut.
The 22-year-old midfielder trained alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema - who along with Kaka cost Madrid nearly £200 million ($285 million) in transfer fees this offseason - for the first time Friday after accepting a drop in salary to rejoin his boyhood club after two seasons at Getafe.
"I was going to accept the deal they offered me before it even landed on the table," said Granero, who lost out on a reported £800,000 ($1.14 million). "Sometimes it's a rodeo to get to Real Madrid and, in my case, it meant going through Getafe, which worked out."
Granero, who joined Madrid's youth system at age 8, is the 10th midfielder at the club and has led to it declaring that it won't sign anyone else until it sells several players.
One such player is striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who returned to training after turning down a move to Bundesliga side Stuttgart on Thursday.
"It's true that I feel a great sense of responsibility," Granero said. "To be a part of this squad is hard and you have to earn your place. You have to shed your skin with every training because you always have to be conscious and respectful of the white shirt."
Liverpool's Xabi Alonso and Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery have both been linked with Madrid, but Granero would still welcome them to the club.
"It's clear it'll be even harder to play, but you have to aspire in difficult moments and I've decided to take a step forward in my career," Granero said.
The 22-year-old midfielder trained alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema - who along with Kaka cost Madrid nearly £200 million ($285 million) in transfer fees this offseason - for the first time Friday after accepting a drop in salary to rejoin his boyhood club after two seasons at Getafe.
"I was going to accept the deal they offered me before it even landed on the table," said Granero, who lost out on a reported £800,000 ($1.14 million). "Sometimes it's a rodeo to get to Real Madrid and, in my case, it meant going through Getafe, which worked out."
Granero, who joined Madrid's youth system at age 8, is the 10th midfielder at the club and has led to it declaring that it won't sign anyone else until it sells several players.
One such player is striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who returned to training after turning down a move to Bundesliga side Stuttgart on Thursday.
"It's true that I feel a great sense of responsibility," Granero said. "To be a part of this squad is hard and you have to earn your place. You have to shed your skin with every training because you always have to be conscious and respectful of the white shirt."
Liverpool's Xabi Alonso and Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery have both been linked with Madrid, but Granero would still welcome them to the club.
"It's clear it'll be even harder to play, but you have to aspire in difficult moments and I've decided to take a step forward in my career," Granero said.
Treacy completes Blades loan move
Blackburn midfielder Keith Treacy has joined Sheffield United on loan until January in a bid to gain more first-team football.
The 20-year-old left-winger made just nine starts in his 20 appearances last season.
Manager Sam Allardyce is keen for the player to gain more experience and has allowed him to join the Championship club for a short spell.
The 20-year-old left-winger made just nine starts in his 20 appearances last season.
Manager Sam Allardyce is keen for the player to gain more experience and has allowed him to join the Championship club for a short spell.
Gilberto leaves White Hart Lane
Brazilian defender Gilberto has left Tottenham after his contract with the club was cancelled by mutual consent.
The 33-year-old arrived at Hertha Berlin in January 2008 but struggled to make an impact and only made 10 appearances.
Meanwhile, Troy Archibald-Henville has joined Exeter City on loan for six months and Ben Alnwick has moved to Norwich for three months, while Danny Rose has been linked with a short-term move to Sheffield United.
The 33-year-old arrived at Hertha Berlin in January 2008 but struggled to make an impact and only made 10 appearances.
Meanwhile, Troy Archibald-Henville has joined Exeter City on loan for six months and Ben Alnwick has moved to Norwich for three months, while Danny Rose has been linked with a short-term move to Sheffield United.
Milijas set to make Wolves debut
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy will hand midfielder Nenad Milijas his debut in the pre-season friendly against Bristol City at Ashton Gate.
The Serbia international, a summer signing from Red Star Belgrade, has now completed all the necessary visa arrangements and is back in training at Compton.
Former Celtic defender Bobo Balde has been given another opportunity to stake a claim for a contract but Ronald Zubar has returned to France to be with his wife and young baby girl, who was only born a fortnight ago.
Andrew Surman will not be risked after sustaining an ankle injury against Walsall on Tuesday night.
The Serbia international, a summer signing from Red Star Belgrade, has now completed all the necessary visa arrangements and is back in training at Compton.
Former Celtic defender Bobo Balde has been given another opportunity to stake a claim for a contract but Ronald Zubar has returned to France to be with his wife and young baby girl, who was only born a fortnight ago.
Andrew Surman will not be risked after sustaining an ankle injury against Walsall on Tuesday night.
December comeback for Downing
Aston Villa newcomer Stewart Downing has admitted it will be early December before he is available to make his debut for the club.
It was initially thought Downing would be available in October following his foot injury after completing a £12 million switch from Middlesbrough.
But the England winger is now claiming it will be a further two months before he will be available for selection.
He said: "The injury is a bit of a strange one. It's not a break but there's a fracture there.
"I've had to have it pinned and that should come out in September. Then it's a case of building it up.
"The target is early December. If I'm ready before then that's a bonus. If it's after it just needs time to heal."
Downing added: "I'm sure I will play before Christmas. The manager wants me 100 per cent right and is prepared to give me extra time to do it."
Downing suffered his setback in a challenge by Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov at the end of last season.
If Downing's fears are realised, he will miss virtually all of the Europa League group stages - assuming Villa negotiate next month's qualifier.
It was initially thought Downing would be available in October following his foot injury after completing a £12 million switch from Middlesbrough.
But the England winger is now claiming it will be a further two months before he will be available for selection.
He said: "The injury is a bit of a strange one. It's not a break but there's a fracture there.
"I've had to have it pinned and that should come out in September. Then it's a case of building it up.
"The target is early December. If I'm ready before then that's a bonus. If it's after it just needs time to heal."
Downing added: "I'm sure I will play before Christmas. The manager wants me 100 per cent right and is prepared to give me extra time to do it."
Downing suffered his setback in a challenge by Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov at the end of last season.
If Downing's fears are realised, he will miss virtually all of the Europa League group stages - assuming Villa negotiate next month's qualifier.
Beattie eyes personal landmark
James Beattie heads into the new season determined to help the club establish themselves in the top flight and also reach a personal landmark.
The former Southampton and Everton striker is 11 short of 100 Premier League goals and after scoring seven in 16 appearances after his transfer from Sheffield United in January he intends to join an elite group in the coming campaign.
Only 16 players have registered a century of goals and Beattie is one of three others - Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes both have 98 - closing in on the milestone.
"A target of 15-plus goals is what a striker is always going to be looking for in the Premier," said the 31-year-old Beattie, whose goals helped keep Stoke up in their maiden Premier League campaign.
"If Matty Etherington and Liam Lawrence, or whoever is playing on the wing, get balls in, then I've always said I back myself to get goals.
"I'm on 89 Premier League goals at the moment. There's a lot of good names with more than 100 and to get there would be a proud moment.
"To get to 100 goals is a personal thing, but the main ambition is to maintain our Premier League status and then get more points than last season."
While a personal milestone remains in Beattie's thoughts, manager Tony Pulis has set the squad a target of improving on last season.
"The gaffer has set us the challenge to get more points than last year," Beattie told the Stoke Sentinel.
"He says that only two teams in the Premier League have done that in their second season.
"He's laid down the gauntlet and we will be doing our best to fulfil his dreams."
Pulis, meanwhile, is on the verge of completing his first significant signing of the summer as a deal for Sunderland midfielder Dean Whitehead is believed to be close.
The former Southampton and Everton striker is 11 short of 100 Premier League goals and after scoring seven in 16 appearances after his transfer from Sheffield United in January he intends to join an elite group in the coming campaign.
Only 16 players have registered a century of goals and Beattie is one of three others - Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes both have 98 - closing in on the milestone.
"A target of 15-plus goals is what a striker is always going to be looking for in the Premier," said the 31-year-old Beattie, whose goals helped keep Stoke up in their maiden Premier League campaign.
"If Matty Etherington and Liam Lawrence, or whoever is playing on the wing, get balls in, then I've always said I back myself to get goals.
"I'm on 89 Premier League goals at the moment. There's a lot of good names with more than 100 and to get there would be a proud moment.
"To get to 100 goals is a personal thing, but the main ambition is to maintain our Premier League status and then get more points than last season."
While a personal milestone remains in Beattie's thoughts, manager Tony Pulis has set the squad a target of improving on last season.
"The gaffer has set us the challenge to get more points than last year," Beattie told the Stoke Sentinel.
"He says that only two teams in the Premier League have done that in their second season.
"He's laid down the gauntlet and we will be doing our best to fulfil his dreams."
Pulis, meanwhile, is on the verge of completing his first significant signing of the summer as a deal for Sunderland midfielder Dean Whitehead is believed to be close.
Gerrard cleared by court over bar room attack
LIVERPOOL, England (AP) - England midfielder Steven Gerrard was cleared Friday of intentionally attacking a man in a bar and said he could now concentrate on Liverpool's push for a first Premier League title.
The jury at Liverpool Crown Court found the Liverpool captain not guilty of affray, accepting the footballer's explanation that he acted in self defense in punching businessman Marcus McGee at the Lounge Inn bar on December 29 in a dispute over music.
"Can I just say how pleased I am with today's verdict," Gerrard said outside the court. "I'm glad to put this case behind me and I am really looking forward to the season ahead and concentrating on my football now.
"I would just like to say a big thank you to my legal team and to my friends and family and everyone at Liverpool Football Club for supporting me."
The 29-year-old Gerrard has played for Liverpool for his entire career and last month signed a contract with the club until 2013.
After leading the Reds to its fifth Champions League title in 2005, he was honored as a Member of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II and remains the key member of Rafa Benitez's team.
"We are really pleased," Benitez said from Singapore where Liverpool is on a pre-season tour. "He is very important for us and he can now focus just on football. We are all pleased at the club and over here at the training camp.
"We have been supporting him all the time and were just waiting for the decision. Now, he can concentrate just on football and hopefully play at the same level as last year."
Gerrard was the only one of seven defendants to be cleared over the incident, which was described an "explosion of violence" by the judge.
He showed no emotion when the jury foreman delivered the not guilty verdict after 70 minutes of deliberation.
"The verdict is a credible verdict on the full facts of this case," judge Henry Globe told Gerrard. "You walk away from this court with your reputation intact."
Gerrard was celebrating in the Southport bar near Liverpool after scoring twice in his team's 5-1 win at Newcastle. He was with a party of friends, including former Liverpool manager and player Kenny Dalglish.
Video footage from the bar showed Gerrard and his friends drinking beer, downing spirits and dancing while chanting football songs. But trouble flared at around 2 a.m. when Gerrard wanted to change the music on the CD player.
The 34-year-old McGee said Gerrard had tried to grab a music card from him after being refused control of the device.
Gerrard admitted throwing three punches but said only one connected. He said he only swung at McGee because he thought he was about to be attacked himself.
"What at first sight to the casual observer may seem to have been a clear-cut case against you of unlawful violence, has been nowhere near as clear-cut upon careful analysis of the evidence," Globe said.
The judge suggested it was unwise of Gerrard to approach McGee to resolve the earlier "trivial disagreement."
"You did not start the violence, it was started by the violent elbowing of Marcus McGee in the face by one of your friends, John Doran," Globe said. "The victim's consequential actions of reeling backwards and then forwards and your actions in response to that movement forward has to be seen against that background.
"At all times you insisted that you only ever acted in what you believed was reasonable self defense to what you understandably, albeit you accept mistakenly, believed was an attempted attack upon you by Marcus McGee."
Five other men have already pleaded guilty in the incident and another admitted a lesser charge of threatening behavior.
The six men will be sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court on August 7.
The jury at Liverpool Crown Court found the Liverpool captain not guilty of affray, accepting the footballer's explanation that he acted in self defense in punching businessman Marcus McGee at the Lounge Inn bar on December 29 in a dispute over music.
"Can I just say how pleased I am with today's verdict," Gerrard said outside the court. "I'm glad to put this case behind me and I am really looking forward to the season ahead and concentrating on my football now.
"I would just like to say a big thank you to my legal team and to my friends and family and everyone at Liverpool Football Club for supporting me."
The 29-year-old Gerrard has played for Liverpool for his entire career and last month signed a contract with the club until 2013.
After leading the Reds to its fifth Champions League title in 2005, he was honored as a Member of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II and remains the key member of Rafa Benitez's team.
"We are really pleased," Benitez said from Singapore where Liverpool is on a pre-season tour. "He is very important for us and he can now focus just on football. We are all pleased at the club and over here at the training camp.
"We have been supporting him all the time and were just waiting for the decision. Now, he can concentrate just on football and hopefully play at the same level as last year."
Gerrard was the only one of seven defendants to be cleared over the incident, which was described an "explosion of violence" by the judge.
He showed no emotion when the jury foreman delivered the not guilty verdict after 70 minutes of deliberation.
"The verdict is a credible verdict on the full facts of this case," judge Henry Globe told Gerrard. "You walk away from this court with your reputation intact."
Gerrard was celebrating in the Southport bar near Liverpool after scoring twice in his team's 5-1 win at Newcastle. He was with a party of friends, including former Liverpool manager and player Kenny Dalglish.
Video footage from the bar showed Gerrard and his friends drinking beer, downing spirits and dancing while chanting football songs. But trouble flared at around 2 a.m. when Gerrard wanted to change the music on the CD player.
The 34-year-old McGee said Gerrard had tried to grab a music card from him after being refused control of the device.
Gerrard admitted throwing three punches but said only one connected. He said he only swung at McGee because he thought he was about to be attacked himself.
"What at first sight to the casual observer may seem to have been a clear-cut case against you of unlawful violence, has been nowhere near as clear-cut upon careful analysis of the evidence," Globe said.
The judge suggested it was unwise of Gerrard to approach McGee to resolve the earlier "trivial disagreement."
"You did not start the violence, it was started by the violent elbowing of Marcus McGee in the face by one of your friends, John Doran," Globe said. "The victim's consequential actions of reeling backwards and then forwards and your actions in response to that movement forward has to be seen against that background.
"At all times you insisted that you only ever acted in what you believed was reasonable self defense to what you understandably, albeit you accept mistakenly, believed was an attempted attack upon you by Marcus McGee."
Five other men have already pleaded guilty in the incident and another admitted a lesser charge of threatening behavior.
The six men will be sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court on August 7.
Cats chief closing in on Cana deal
Steve Bruce hopes to make Marseille captain Lorik Cana his third signing for Sunderland after admitting the Albanian is "right up his street".
Cana, who turns 26 on Monday, is expected to fly to Holland, where Sunderland are competing in the Amsterdam tournament, for talks with Bruce ahead of Friday night's clash with Benfica.
The former Wigan boss, who missed out on a deal to sign Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch earlier this week, told the Sunderland Echo: "He is captain of Marseille and captain of his country - he's right up our street.
"I hate talking about other club's players until things are all signed and delivered - you just have to look at what happened with the Peter Crouch deal.
"So we'll just sit down with the lad and see how things progress."
Should he sign this weekend - Sunderland have made arrangements for a medical in Amsterdam - Cana would follow Paraguay skipper Paulo Da Silva and Fraizer Campbell in signing for the Wearsiders this summer.
It is thought Cana, who was born in Kosovo, would cost in the region of £6million.
Bruce is also in the market for a new striker with Bordeaux's Marouane Chamakh and Tottenham's England international Darren Bent high on the list of six players he targeted when he took over.
He added: "I had six people in mind. I have lost one of them, so I have had to look elsewhere in that sense, but generally I haven't wavered too much on the people I was after.
"There is progress being made on transfers - the work going on behind the scenes is incredible.
"But it is a long, drawn-out process and the situation we find ourselves in is normal.
"Yes, it would be lovely to have all my signings concluded by now, but that hasn't happened so far and it is a case of keeping a cool head because I know this club and what we are trying to do with it will be an attraction."
Cana, who turns 26 on Monday, is expected to fly to Holland, where Sunderland are competing in the Amsterdam tournament, for talks with Bruce ahead of Friday night's clash with Benfica.
The former Wigan boss, who missed out on a deal to sign Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch earlier this week, told the Sunderland Echo: "He is captain of Marseille and captain of his country - he's right up our street.
"I hate talking about other club's players until things are all signed and delivered - you just have to look at what happened with the Peter Crouch deal.
"So we'll just sit down with the lad and see how things progress."
Should he sign this weekend - Sunderland have made arrangements for a medical in Amsterdam - Cana would follow Paraguay skipper Paulo Da Silva and Fraizer Campbell in signing for the Wearsiders this summer.
It is thought Cana, who was born in Kosovo, would cost in the region of £6million.
Bruce is also in the market for a new striker with Bordeaux's Marouane Chamakh and Tottenham's England international Darren Bent high on the list of six players he targeted when he took over.
He added: "I had six people in mind. I have lost one of them, so I have had to look elsewhere in that sense, but generally I haven't wavered too much on the people I was after.
"There is progress being made on transfers - the work going on behind the scenes is incredible.
"But it is a long, drawn-out process and the situation we find ourselves in is normal.
"Yes, it would be lovely to have all my signings concluded by now, but that hasn't happened so far and it is a case of keeping a cool head because I know this club and what we are trying to do with it will be an attraction."
Andrews sets World Cup target
Keith Andrews has set his sights on helping Republic of Ireland qualify for the 2010 World Cup after pledging his future to Blackburn.
The 28-year-old midfielder, who joined Rovers a year ago from MK Dons, was the subject of interest from Premier League rivals Fulham earlier this summer but has now signed a new four-year contract.
Republic of Ireland sit in second spot in Group Eight in World Cup qualifying, with three fixtures in the next few months deciding their South African fate.
He told The Citizen: "We will know whether we have qualified automatically, or whether we need the play-offs by October. It is exciting times and fingers crossed we can do it.
"I always look at the short-term future. To play in a World Cup would be a dream come true. To cement my place on the international stage is one thing but to crack on and qualify for a World Cup it would go down in history."
The 28-year-old midfielder, who joined Rovers a year ago from MK Dons, was the subject of interest from Premier League rivals Fulham earlier this summer but has now signed a new four-year contract.
Republic of Ireland sit in second spot in Group Eight in World Cup qualifying, with three fixtures in the next few months deciding their South African fate.
He told The Citizen: "We will know whether we have qualified automatically, or whether we need the play-offs by October. It is exciting times and fingers crossed we can do it.
"I always look at the short-term future. To play in a World Cup would be a dream come true. To cement my place on the international stage is one thing but to crack on and qualify for a World Cup it would go down in history."
Injury setback for United skipper
Manchester United have confirmed that captain Gary Neville has been forced to return to England after picking up an injury during pre-season.
The right-back has sustained a minor groin injury on the Red Devils' tour of Asia and will now miss the remaining matches against FC Seoul and Hangzhou Greentown.
Neville has struggled for fitness in recent seasons and he made just 13 Premier League starts during the 2008/09 campaign.
Things appeared to be looking up for the 34-year-old after he got 62 minutes under his belt against a Malaysia XI on Monday night.
But Neville will now receive treatment on his latest setback in Manchester as he looks to be at manager Sir Alex Ferguson's disposal ahead of the new term.
The right-back has sustained a minor groin injury on the Red Devils' tour of Asia and will now miss the remaining matches against FC Seoul and Hangzhou Greentown.
Neville has struggled for fitness in recent seasons and he made just 13 Premier League starts during the 2008/09 campaign.
Things appeared to be looking up for the 34-year-old after he got 62 minutes under his belt against a Malaysia XI on Monday night.
But Neville will now receive treatment on his latest setback in Manchester as he looks to be at manager Sir Alex Ferguson's disposal ahead of the new term.
Zigic happy to stay at Valencia
Nikola Zigic has declared he wants to remain at Valencia despite interest from other clubs, including Aston Villa and Blackburn.
The 28-year-old admits he has had plenty of options during the summer but is determined to fight for his place at the Mestalla after falling down the pecking order last season.
"I have rejected all the offers because my desire is to stay with Valencia the next season," Zigic told Las Provincias.
"I am very happy to return to the team and I am prepared to demonstrate to the coach (Unai Emery) that I should be in the team. This is my challenge now.
"My agent had many proposals from Spain and Europe but my decision was always clear. To stay at Valencia.
"I have not personally spoken with the coach but Valencia know my intentions and I will not change my mind."
Serbia are well placed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup and Zigic added: "This year is key and I need many minutes on the pitch."
The 28-year-old admits he has had plenty of options during the summer but is determined to fight for his place at the Mestalla after falling down the pecking order last season.
"I have rejected all the offers because my desire is to stay with Valencia the next season," Zigic told Las Provincias.
"I am very happy to return to the team and I am prepared to demonstrate to the coach (Unai Emery) that I should be in the team. This is my challenge now.
"My agent had many proposals from Spain and Europe but my decision was always clear. To stay at Valencia.
"I have not personally spoken with the coach but Valencia know my intentions and I will not change my mind."
Serbia are well placed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup and Zigic added: "This year is key and I need many minutes on the pitch."
Reds complete Sama signing
Liverpool have bolstered their academy ranks with the signing of German teenager Stephen Sama from Borussia Dortmund.
The 16-year-old defender has been snapped up before Dortmund could secure him on a professional contract.
He has penned a deal that ties him to Anfield until June 2012 and follows in the footsteps of Christopher Buchtmann, who also joined from the Bundesliga club.
However, Dortmund youth director Peter Wazinski believes Sama has a long way to go before he is the finished article and has told Liverpool he is not such an exciting prospect as Buchtmann.
"This time they did not look closely enough," Wazinski told Reviersport.
"Stephen was already a substitute last season, unlike Christopher Buchtmann was when he joined them.
"In terms of Stephen Sama, the transfer does not hurt us in any way, except that there is always a better moment to join another club than in the middle of pre-season."
The 16-year-old defender has been snapped up before Dortmund could secure him on a professional contract.
He has penned a deal that ties him to Anfield until June 2012 and follows in the footsteps of Christopher Buchtmann, who also joined from the Bundesliga club.
However, Dortmund youth director Peter Wazinski believes Sama has a long way to go before he is the finished article and has told Liverpool he is not such an exciting prospect as Buchtmann.
"This time they did not look closely enough," Wazinski told Reviersport.
"Stephen was already a substitute last season, unlike Christopher Buchtmann was when he joined them.
"In terms of Stephen Sama, the transfer does not hurt us in any way, except that there is always a better moment to join another club than in the middle of pre-season."
Ajax closing in on de Zeeuw
Ajax manager Martin Jol is hoping to complete a deal to sign AZ Alkmaar midfielder Demy de Zeeuw in the next few days.
De Zeeuw has made it clear he wants to join the Amsterdam giants but Eredivisie champions AZ rejected Ajax's first offer of four million euros.
Jol is expected to return with an improved bid and hopes to wrap up the transfer quickly.
"We have said that we want to sign De Zeeuw, we are willing to spend quite a lot of money and I hope that we will have the green light next week," the former Hamburg and Tottenham boss told Dutch newspaper AD Sportwereld.
De Zeeuw was left out of AZ's pre-season defeat to Hamburg on Wednesday due to a knee injury.
De Zeeuw has made it clear he wants to join the Amsterdam giants but Eredivisie champions AZ rejected Ajax's first offer of four million euros.
Jol is expected to return with an improved bid and hopes to wrap up the transfer quickly.
"We have said that we want to sign De Zeeuw, we are willing to spend quite a lot of money and I hope that we will have the green light next week," the former Hamburg and Tottenham boss told Dutch newspaper AD Sportwereld.
De Zeeuw was left out of AZ's pre-season defeat to Hamburg on Wednesday due to a knee injury.
Napoli in talks over Dossena deal
Serie A side Napoli have confirmed they are in talks with Liverpool as they look to secure the services of defender Andrea Dossena.
The Italy international made just 12 Premier League starts for Rafa Benitez's men last term following his £7million arrival from Udinese in the summer.
Juventus were previously linked with a move for the Italy international, but Napoli now appear to have moved to the head of the queue.
Club president Aurelio De Laurentiis had held discussions with Reds boss Benitez and the dialogue between the two clubs would continue.
He told Corriere dello Sport: "I've personally spoken with Rafa Benitez. The negotiation is ongoing."
Reports in Italy suggest that the deal is being delayed as the two clubs haggle over a fee, with the Reds keen to recoup around �6million.
The Italy international made just 12 Premier League starts for Rafa Benitez's men last term following his £7million arrival from Udinese in the summer.
Juventus were previously linked with a move for the Italy international, but Napoli now appear to have moved to the head of the queue.
Club president Aurelio De Laurentiis had held discussions with Reds boss Benitez and the dialogue between the two clubs would continue.
He told Corriere dello Sport: "I've personally spoken with Rafa Benitez. The negotiation is ongoing."
Reports in Italy suggest that the deal is being delayed as the two clubs haggle over a fee, with the Reds keen to recoup around �6million.
Korean close to Trotters switch
FC Seoul have confirmed Lee Chung-yong has agreed a deal to move to Bolton, subject to the winger being granted a work permit.
Lee has been in England this week holding talks with the Trotters and also undergoing a medical ahead of a proposed move.
The negotiations appear to have been successful, with FC Seoul expecting the deal to be completed once Lee has secured a work permit.
A statement from FC Seoul said: "The contract will be signed officially after a work permit is issued."
Lee is understood to have agreed a three-year contract at the Reebok Stadium, with Bolton paying in the region of £2million for the 21-year-old.
Bolton boss Gary Megson has been looking to add to his squad over the summer and is also close to signing Sam Ricketts from Hull.
Lee has been in England this week holding talks with the Trotters and also undergoing a medical ahead of a proposed move.
The negotiations appear to have been successful, with FC Seoul expecting the deal to be completed once Lee has secured a work permit.
A statement from FC Seoul said: "The contract will be signed officially after a work permit is issued."
Lee is understood to have agreed a three-year contract at the Reebok Stadium, with Bolton paying in the region of £2million for the 21-year-old.
Bolton boss Gary Megson has been looking to add to his squad over the summer and is also close to signing Sam Ricketts from Hull.
Deco 'happy' after Blues talks
Chelsea midfielder Deco insists he is happy at Stamford Bridge after holding showdown talks with new manager Carlo Ancelotti.
The Portugal international was expected to leave the Blues after a disappointing campaign following last summer's switch from Barcelona.
He was wanted by ex-manager Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan, but the Serie A champions were not prepared to match Chelsea's asking price.
Deco has now met with Ancelotti and insists he will stay and give his all for their cause this season.
"I have talked with the manager," explained Deco.
"We talked a lot about things, about the game, about what he thinks about the team and tactics.
"I will be here. I have a contract and I will do my best, wherever I am on the pitch."
Although Deco flourished early on last season a succession of injuries hampered the Brazilian-born star's form.
The 31-year-old is hoping staying injury-free this time around will give him the chance to show fans what they have been missing.
"The last season was difficult for me - I had many injuries," he continued.
"You recover and get fit again and, straight after, another injury. I hope this season will be different. I'm happy to play.
"I hope I can show fans what I can do. I'm happy to be here. The club is good, the atmosphere around it is good. I like being here."
The Portugal international was expected to leave the Blues after a disappointing campaign following last summer's switch from Barcelona.
He was wanted by ex-manager Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan, but the Serie A champions were not prepared to match Chelsea's asking price.
Deco has now met with Ancelotti and insists he will stay and give his all for their cause this season.
"I have talked with the manager," explained Deco.
"We talked a lot about things, about the game, about what he thinks about the team and tactics.
"I will be here. I have a contract and I will do my best, wherever I am on the pitch."
Although Deco flourished early on last season a succession of injuries hampered the Brazilian-born star's form.
The 31-year-old is hoping staying injury-free this time around will give him the chance to show fans what they have been missing.
"The last season was difficult for me - I had many injuries," he continued.
"You recover and get fit again and, straight after, another injury. I hope this season will be different. I'm happy to play.
"I hope I can show fans what I can do. I'm happy to be here. The club is good, the atmosphere around it is good. I like being here."
Keane targets top-four finish
Tottenham striker Robbie Keane believes this season could finally see the club break back into the top four of the Premier League.
Spurs last achieved a top-four finish in the 1989/90 campaign, but Keane believes a change of fortunes is on the horizon.
After a torrid start under former boss Juande Ramos last term, manager Harry Redknapp helped steer the side to eighth in the Premier League.
Former Liverpool attacker Keane is now eyeing progression and feels any further spending by Redknapp will ensure they are a force to be reckoned with.
Tottenham have been linked with a move for Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch, but Redknapp has admitted a deal could be too expensive while Keane is of the belief that the club's frontline is already strong enough.
He said in the Daily Star: "We've got the firepower to do it now. I'm sure if other players come in, it will only add to the squad.
"Crouch is a good player but I don't really want to talk about players who are still with other clubs.
"This could be a big year for us. Breaking into the top four has to be the aim."
Keane also accepts that cash-rich Manchester City will be a major threat in the new season but does not fear the Eastlands outfit.
He said: "City are at the same level as us. They have a similar squad to ours, and they've spent a lot of money.
"Good luck to them. But we've got to concentrate on what we do. Maybe we can be the quiet ones and come from nowhere."
Spurs last achieved a top-four finish in the 1989/90 campaign, but Keane believes a change of fortunes is on the horizon.
After a torrid start under former boss Juande Ramos last term, manager Harry Redknapp helped steer the side to eighth in the Premier League.
Former Liverpool attacker Keane is now eyeing progression and feels any further spending by Redknapp will ensure they are a force to be reckoned with.
Tottenham have been linked with a move for Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch, but Redknapp has admitted a deal could be too expensive while Keane is of the belief that the club's frontline is already strong enough.
He said in the Daily Star: "We've got the firepower to do it now. I'm sure if other players come in, it will only add to the squad.
"Crouch is a good player but I don't really want to talk about players who are still with other clubs.
"This could be a big year for us. Breaking into the top four has to be the aim."
Keane also accepts that cash-rich Manchester City will be a major threat in the new season but does not fear the Eastlands outfit.
He said: "City are at the same level as us. They have a similar squad to ours, and they've spent a lot of money.
"Good luck to them. But we've got to concentrate on what we do. Maybe we can be the quiet ones and come from nowhere."
Ajax chief Jol hints at Bale bid
Ajax boss and former Tottenham manager Martin Jol has hinted he could be ready to rescue Gareth Bale from his unhappy time at White Hart Lane.
The Wales international has struggled with injuries and a loss of form since his £5million move from Southampton in May 2007.
In the 24 Premier League appearances he has made for Spurs, the full-back is still to finish on the winning side during his time under Jol, Juande Ramos and Harry Redknapp.
Jol, who signed Bale, believes the youngster needs regular action and feels a switch away from England would be a wise move.
He told the Daily Mirror: "He is at a great club but he has got to be playing football because that is the only thing that will help him to get better.
"It might be that going abroad might be the best thing for him because it might help him to get his confidence back.
"When he was a young kid he was brilliant at free-kicks and corners. It would be a shame if that talent was to go to waste."
Jol insists that the raw ability he spotted in Bale remains and is confident the 20-year-old can recapture the form which saw several clubs chasing his signature two years ago.
He added: "I promised his mum that I would play him when I signed him. I think that's why he chose Spurs over the other clubs that wanted him.
"People might have doubted that he was ready but I was confident that he had the talent and that he would become one of the best players in Europe in his position. I still think that could be the case.
"It might be that a lot was expected of him at a young age but he had the talent back then and he has still got it."
The Wales international has struggled with injuries and a loss of form since his £5million move from Southampton in May 2007.
In the 24 Premier League appearances he has made for Spurs, the full-back is still to finish on the winning side during his time under Jol, Juande Ramos and Harry Redknapp.
Jol, who signed Bale, believes the youngster needs regular action and feels a switch away from England would be a wise move.
He told the Daily Mirror: "He is at a great club but he has got to be playing football because that is the only thing that will help him to get better.
"It might be that going abroad might be the best thing for him because it might help him to get his confidence back.
"When he was a young kid he was brilliant at free-kicks and corners. It would be a shame if that talent was to go to waste."
Jol insists that the raw ability he spotted in Bale remains and is confident the 20-year-old can recapture the form which saw several clubs chasing his signature two years ago.
He added: "I promised his mum that I would play him when I signed him. I think that's why he chose Spurs over the other clubs that wanted him.
"People might have doubted that he was ready but I was confident that he had the talent and that he would become one of the best players in Europe in his position. I still think that could be the case.
"It might be that a lot was expected of him at a young age but he had the talent back then and he has still got it."
Cesc 'vital' for Gunners - Henry
Barcelona striker Thierry Henry claims it is "vital" Arsenal keep Cesc Fabregas at the club, despite reported interest from the Catalan giants.
In virtually every transfer window the Catalan giants are linked with the Spain international, who has flourished at the Emirates.
The Gunners' stance remains unmoved - they insist the 22-year-old, who is on a long-term contract, is going nowhere.
Ex-Arsenal favourite Henry believes it is vital his former club retain Fabregas' services and that he does not join him at the Nou Camp.
"It is vital Arsenal keep Cesc. Vital," said Henry.
"He is the Arsenal captain and he is young and I'm sure he wants to give something back to the club. Knowing him, he will.
"But it is vital they keep Cesc."
Henry remains a fan of the Gunners following his eight-year stint there prior to heading to Barca.
Arsenal have now gone five years without a major trophy and Henry hopes they still have enough quality to succeed this season despite Samir Nasri's injury and Emmanuel Adebayor's exit.
"When I talk about Arsenal, my heart will always rule my head," he continued.
"It is not easy to lose Adebayor and what happened to Nasri was not what Arsene [Wenger] would have been hoping for.
"But I hope they can win the league and win everything they can, that's always my feeling about my old club.
"What I know about Arsenal from my time there was not about finishing in the top four - it was about winning the league.
"That's how I saw it when I was there and I still see it like that, they are a big club. Arsene has proved so many times he can win things without spending a lot of money and hopefully they can do it again.
"The only thing that matters to me is not who is in the top four, it's who is going to be top and I know that's how Arsene sees it too."
In virtually every transfer window the Catalan giants are linked with the Spain international, who has flourished at the Emirates.
The Gunners' stance remains unmoved - they insist the 22-year-old, who is on a long-term contract, is going nowhere.
Ex-Arsenal favourite Henry believes it is vital his former club retain Fabregas' services and that he does not join him at the Nou Camp.
"It is vital Arsenal keep Cesc. Vital," said Henry.
"He is the Arsenal captain and he is young and I'm sure he wants to give something back to the club. Knowing him, he will.
"But it is vital they keep Cesc."
Henry remains a fan of the Gunners following his eight-year stint there prior to heading to Barca.
Arsenal have now gone five years without a major trophy and Henry hopes they still have enough quality to succeed this season despite Samir Nasri's injury and Emmanuel Adebayor's exit.
"When I talk about Arsenal, my heart will always rule my head," he continued.
"It is not easy to lose Adebayor and what happened to Nasri was not what Arsene [Wenger] would have been hoping for.
"But I hope they can win the league and win everything they can, that's always my feeling about my old club.
"What I know about Arsenal from my time there was not about finishing in the top four - it was about winning the league.
"That's how I saw it when I was there and I still see it like that, they are a big club. Arsene has proved so many times he can win things without spending a lot of money and hopefully they can do it again.
"The only thing that matters to me is not who is in the top four, it's who is going to be top and I know that's how Arsene sees it too."
Cats boss hopes for Chamakh talks
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is hoping the club will hold talks over a deal for Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh over the weekend.
Bruce is eager to improve his attacking options and has already missed out on Peter Crouch after the Portsmouth forward turned down a move to the Stadium of Light.
Tottenham's Darren Bent is also a target for Bruce, while the in-demand Chamakh is another player to have caught the Black Cats manager's eye.
Chamakh has suggested he would be keen on joining Sunderland and Bruce is hoping progress can be made by chairman Niall Quinn in the coming days.
"Chamakh is a player I've liked for a long, long time," said Bruce in The Guardian.
"We have shown an interest and we'll see what develops with that. He is one of a few we are looking at and we will decide soon.
"Niall got back on Thursday and there will be high-level talks going on over the weekend, not just about him, but regarding other targets as well.
"We've still got one or two irons in the fire like we've had for weeks. We're still trying and we're close, in particular, to one deal being done over the next couple of days.
"But, after what has happened this week with Peter Crouch, I don't want to say too much.
"That was a massive disappointment and you can never say 'yes', the deal is done, until everything has actually been done."
Bruce is eager to improve his attacking options and has already missed out on Peter Crouch after the Portsmouth forward turned down a move to the Stadium of Light.
Tottenham's Darren Bent is also a target for Bruce, while the in-demand Chamakh is another player to have caught the Black Cats manager's eye.
Chamakh has suggested he would be keen on joining Sunderland and Bruce is hoping progress can be made by chairman Niall Quinn in the coming days.
"Chamakh is a player I've liked for a long, long time," said Bruce in The Guardian.
"We have shown an interest and we'll see what develops with that. He is one of a few we are looking at and we will decide soon.
"Niall got back on Thursday and there will be high-level talks going on over the weekend, not just about him, but regarding other targets as well.
"We've still got one or two irons in the fire like we've had for weeks. We're still trying and we're close, in particular, to one deal being done over the next couple of days.
"But, after what has happened this week with Peter Crouch, I don't want to say too much.
"That was a massive disappointment and you can never say 'yes', the deal is done, until everything has actually been done."
Blues boss repeats Terry stance
Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has again stressed that Manchester City target John Terry will be the Blues' captain for many years.
City have failed with two offers for the defender but have yet to end their interest in prising Terry away from their Premier League rivals.
Chelsea have repeatedly insisted that Terry is not for sale, although the England skipper has yet to comment on his future.
Ancelotti revealed earlier this week that he expected the matter to be resolved in the coming days as the Blues look to fend off interest from City.
And, speaking ahead of Friday's friendly with his former club AC Milan, Ancelotti reiterated that Terry would not be leaving Stamford Bridge.
"John Terry, I repeat, is the captain of this team and he will be the symbol of this club and this team for many years," said Ancelotti.
"It's not been a problem in these last few days. He will be the captain of Chelsea in the future."
Meanwhile, Ancelotti is refusing to rule out a raid on his old club Milan to sign midfielder Andrea Pirlo, who is likely to line up against Chelsea on Friday night.
He added: "Pirlo, I think will be with Milan (on Friday), but no one knows for the future."
City have failed with two offers for the defender but have yet to end their interest in prising Terry away from their Premier League rivals.
Chelsea have repeatedly insisted that Terry is not for sale, although the England skipper has yet to comment on his future.
Ancelotti revealed earlier this week that he expected the matter to be resolved in the coming days as the Blues look to fend off interest from City.
And, speaking ahead of Friday's friendly with his former club AC Milan, Ancelotti reiterated that Terry would not be leaving Stamford Bridge.
"John Terry, I repeat, is the captain of this team and he will be the symbol of this club and this team for many years," said Ancelotti.
"It's not been a problem in these last few days. He will be the captain of Chelsea in the future."
Meanwhile, Ancelotti is refusing to rule out a raid on his old club Milan to sign midfielder Andrea Pirlo, who is likely to line up against Chelsea on Friday night.
He added: "Pirlo, I think will be with Milan (on Friday), but no one knows for the future."
Reds fans make revised proposal
Supporters' groups ShareLiverpoolFC and Spirit of Shankly have unveiled a revised buy-out proposal.
The fans' organisations are unhappy with the financial structuring of Liverpool and are behind a proposal for supporters to take ownership of the club in a similar scheme to those operated by Barcelona, Real Madrid and other European clubs.
The key change to the group's original proposal is the reduction of the share price from £5,000 to £500. Initially they hoped to raise £500million from 100,000 fans each paying the £5,000 'entry fee'.
The aim is to acquire a 60% stake in the club by raising £150million while seeking a "commercial partner" to invest £100million for a 40% stake.
A detailed summary of the proposal can be viewed at www.shareliverpoolfc.com.
A statement from the SLFC board said: "This is a realistic plan that squares the circle: How to get broadly based fan ownership of the club, and relieve the level of debt, by offering Liverpool fans an affordable entry fee and a chance to get a modest return for their additional financial support.
"Now we need all those Liverpool fans to carefully consider the proposals in detail on our website - and let us know what they think."
The fans' organisations are unhappy with the financial structuring of Liverpool and are behind a proposal for supporters to take ownership of the club in a similar scheme to those operated by Barcelona, Real Madrid and other European clubs.
The key change to the group's original proposal is the reduction of the share price from £5,000 to £500. Initially they hoped to raise £500million from 100,000 fans each paying the £5,000 'entry fee'.
The aim is to acquire a 60% stake in the club by raising £150million while seeking a "commercial partner" to invest £100million for a 40% stake.
A detailed summary of the proposal can be viewed at www.shareliverpoolfc.com.
A statement from the SLFC board said: "This is a realistic plan that squares the circle: How to get broadly based fan ownership of the club, and relieve the level of debt, by offering Liverpool fans an affordable entry fee and a chance to get a modest return for their additional financial support.
"Now we need all those Liverpool fans to carefully consider the proposals in detail on our website - and let us know what they think."
Degen looking to prove his worth
Liverpool's pre-season may not have produced a win yet but for Anfield star Philipp Degen things could not have gone better.
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has the futures of Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano, Alvaro Arbeloa and Andrea Dossena to sort out and all four could still leave the club.
In particular, Real Madrid are closing in on deals to land Alonso and Arbeloa.
Benitez has played down all the transfer speculation, but on the playing side of the build-up so far he will be pleased with the comeback from injury that has seen Degen at last start to show the reason he was signed on a free transfer from Borussia Dortmund a year ago.
Degen is expected to get another run-out in the national stadium against Singapore on Sunday as Liverpool complete their Far East tour.
Degen said: "Last season was a very sad one for me. But I have worked hard during the holidays and now I feel really good. I am not yet at 100% match fitness but I am feeling better every day.
"It is a new season and a new start for me. I have never had a season like last season before when I was injured all the time. I came to a new club wanting to show what I could do but it was not possible.
"I was injured, injured, injured and I know the fans were thinking I am that sort of player, but it isn't true. I want to fight to prove myself now and that is why I am looking forward to this year so much."
Benitez has splashed out £17million to land Glen Johnson from Portsmouth - more competition for Degen at right-back - and the Swiss international is well aware of the fight he has on his hands to win a place in the Anfield defence.
Degen said: "That is life at a big club like Liverpool. I will do all I can to show what I can do. That's the most important thing for me."
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has the futures of Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano, Alvaro Arbeloa and Andrea Dossena to sort out and all four could still leave the club.
In particular, Real Madrid are closing in on deals to land Alonso and Arbeloa.
Benitez has played down all the transfer speculation, but on the playing side of the build-up so far he will be pleased with the comeback from injury that has seen Degen at last start to show the reason he was signed on a free transfer from Borussia Dortmund a year ago.
Degen is expected to get another run-out in the national stadium against Singapore on Sunday as Liverpool complete their Far East tour.
Degen said: "Last season was a very sad one for me. But I have worked hard during the holidays and now I feel really good. I am not yet at 100% match fitness but I am feeling better every day.
"It is a new season and a new start for me. I have never had a season like last season before when I was injured all the time. I came to a new club wanting to show what I could do but it was not possible.
"I was injured, injured, injured and I know the fans were thinking I am that sort of player, but it isn't true. I want to fight to prove myself now and that is why I am looking forward to this year so much."
Benitez has splashed out £17million to land Glen Johnson from Portsmouth - more competition for Degen at right-back - and the Swiss international is well aware of the fight he has on his hands to win a place in the Anfield defence.
Degen said: "That is life at a big club like Liverpool. I will do all I can to show what I can do. That's the most important thing for me."
Adebayor blames Gunners fans for exit
New Manchester City recruit Emmanuel Adebayor has blamed his decision to leave Arsenal on his poor relationship with the club's fans.
The Togo international was booed by sections of the Gunners faithful last term after a summer which saw him strongly linked with a move from the Emirates Stadium.
AC Milan were favourites then but no move materialised.
Instead, Adebayor claims the supporters' reaction to the rumours merely ensured he would leave this year, with City on hand with a reported £25million transfer fee.
Adebayor said: "The way the fans behaved towards me was not nice at all. I can't understand why they were after me. I did my best for them and I was very happy there.
"I scored 30 goals in a season - it's not my fault that Milan, Barcelona or Real Madrid wanted to sign me.
"In any summer, Barcelona try to sign Cesc Fabregas. But the fans never turned on him."
Adebayor's arrival at Eastlands, along with fellow strikers Roque Santa Cruz and Carlos Tevez, has already seen Felipe Caicedo leave the club on a year-long loan to Sporting Lisbon and reports suggest Bulgaria forward Valeri Bojinov could be next to go.
Serie A side Lazio are thought to be leading the running.
The Togo international was booed by sections of the Gunners faithful last term after a summer which saw him strongly linked with a move from the Emirates Stadium.
AC Milan were favourites then but no move materialised.
Instead, Adebayor claims the supporters' reaction to the rumours merely ensured he would leave this year, with City on hand with a reported £25million transfer fee.
Adebayor said: "The way the fans behaved towards me was not nice at all. I can't understand why they were after me. I did my best for them and I was very happy there.
"I scored 30 goals in a season - it's not my fault that Milan, Barcelona or Real Madrid wanted to sign me.
"In any summer, Barcelona try to sign Cesc Fabregas. But the fans never turned on him."
Adebayor's arrival at Eastlands, along with fellow strikers Roque Santa Cruz and Carlos Tevez, has already seen Felipe Caicedo leave the club on a year-long loan to Sporting Lisbon and reports suggest Bulgaria forward Valeri Bojinov could be next to go.
Serie A side Lazio are thought to be leading the running.
City could claim title - Redknapp
Harry Redknapp believes Manchester City are just two signings short of becoming a side capable of challenging for the Premier League title.
City owner Sheikh Mansour has bankrolled Mark Hughes' £80million spending-spree this summer as the City manager looks to build a side capable of bringing UEFA Champions League football to the City of Manchester Stadium.
Despite failing to land Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o, Hughes has been successful in capturing Emmanuel Adebayor, Roque Santa Cruz and Gareth Barry while Carlos Tevez has risked the wrath of Manchester United fans by making the move cross-city to Eastlands.
Hughes has also made a much-publicised attempt to capture Chelsea defender John Terry in a �40million move, although the England captain looks to have opted to remain at Stamford Bridge.
Nevertheless, Tottenham manager Redknapp believes that Hughes requires just two more key players to make City real title contenders.
"Don't write them off, they can do it," Redknapp said.
"If they bring in a couple of players they could be right up there. They already have players like Shaun Wright-Phillips and Stephen Ireland who are great players."
"If he (Hughes) gets the right players they could be real title contenders. If they make a couple of good players in the right areas then who knows."
Spurs' lack of firepower last term cost them a place in this season's Europa League with their four main strikers contributing just 25 league goals between them.
Redknapp acknowledges that City have one of the best strikeforces in country, which could be key in Hughes' side breaking the top four.
"Look at their strike force, they have players like Tevez, Adebayor, Roque Santa Cruz and Craig Bellamy," said the former Portsmouth boss.
"You wouldn't swap that for too many other strikeforces in the league."
Redknapp sees a similarity between the way City have conducted their summer transfer spending with that of Blackburn, who spent big to attract the players good enough to win the title in 1995.
He also draws comparisons with Chelsea, who have won the title twice since being bought by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.
"Chelsea did it and so did Blackburn when they brought in players like (Chris) Sutton, (Alan) Shearer and (Tim Flowers). They built a team to win the championship," Redknapp added.
City owner Sheikh Mansour has bankrolled Mark Hughes' £80million spending-spree this summer as the City manager looks to build a side capable of bringing UEFA Champions League football to the City of Manchester Stadium.
Despite failing to land Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o, Hughes has been successful in capturing Emmanuel Adebayor, Roque Santa Cruz and Gareth Barry while Carlos Tevez has risked the wrath of Manchester United fans by making the move cross-city to Eastlands.
Hughes has also made a much-publicised attempt to capture Chelsea defender John Terry in a �40million move, although the England captain looks to have opted to remain at Stamford Bridge.
Nevertheless, Tottenham manager Redknapp believes that Hughes requires just two more key players to make City real title contenders.
"Don't write them off, they can do it," Redknapp said.
"If they bring in a couple of players they could be right up there. They already have players like Shaun Wright-Phillips and Stephen Ireland who are great players."
"If he (Hughes) gets the right players they could be real title contenders. If they make a couple of good players in the right areas then who knows."
Spurs' lack of firepower last term cost them a place in this season's Europa League with their four main strikers contributing just 25 league goals between them.
Redknapp acknowledges that City have one of the best strikeforces in country, which could be key in Hughes' side breaking the top four.
"Look at their strike force, they have players like Tevez, Adebayor, Roque Santa Cruz and Craig Bellamy," said the former Portsmouth boss.
"You wouldn't swap that for too many other strikeforces in the league."
Redknapp sees a similarity between the way City have conducted their summer transfer spending with that of Blackburn, who spent big to attract the players good enough to win the title in 1995.
He also draws comparisons with Chelsea, who have won the title twice since being bought by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.
"Chelsea did it and so did Blackburn when they brought in players like (Chris) Sutton, (Alan) Shearer and (Tim Flowers). They built a team to win the championship," Redknapp added.
Gill not ready to match City spending
Manchester United chief executive David Gill has ruled out any attempt to match Manchester City's surge to the top of the spending stakes.
City have forked out some astonishing sums already this summer and it is claimed they are willing to offer John Terry £250,000-a-week in a desperate bid to entice him north from Chelsea.
Aside from finding Sir Alex Ferguson's successor when the most successful manager in Manchester United's history eventually decides to call it a day, Gill would probably concede wage inflation is the biggest medium-term problem he is likely to face.
Just as Liverpool and Arsenal are trying to wrestle with major financial issues in addition to putting a winning team on the pitch, so must United given their near-£700million debt.
So Gill has no interest in attempting to match City, or Real Madrid, the summer's other colossal spenders, for that matter.
"It is highly unlikely that we would want to go to those levels," said Gill.
"We don't think it's necessary because we are looking to the medium and long term.
"United has been around since 1878 and our job is to make sure it is still around for many more years in a sensible fashion.
"That is by generating our own income. There will be ups and downs but, overall, we think that what we are doing is having a sustainable business model for the long-term."
With City, the motive is fairly obvious. Mega-rich owners wanting to make a big impact.
At the Bernabeu, Gill senses a flaw.
"I don't understand the economics of what Real Madrid are doing," said Gill.
"Their turnover is not materially different to ours so I am not quite sure how they can make the profits to justify the salaries.
"It's none of my business I suppose but I don't think they can."
The departures of Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo, plus the refusal of Karim Benzema to entertain a move to Old Trafford once he knew Real Madrid were offering more cash, proves the lure of United cannot conquer all.
However, Gill is confident the attraction is still there, enough to ensure they can continue to recruit the players to keep them at the top.
"Not everyone wants to come. Not everyone loves Manchester United," he said.
"But if we continue to grow our revenue, that will deliver more profitable income, which we can then put into the players. Then we can continue to attract and retain the best players in the world.
"We should not under-sell our key assets. We have the history and heritage of Manchester United and 76,000 people in the stadium every week.
"I still think we are a major attraction."
City have forked out some astonishing sums already this summer and it is claimed they are willing to offer John Terry £250,000-a-week in a desperate bid to entice him north from Chelsea.
Aside from finding Sir Alex Ferguson's successor when the most successful manager in Manchester United's history eventually decides to call it a day, Gill would probably concede wage inflation is the biggest medium-term problem he is likely to face.
Just as Liverpool and Arsenal are trying to wrestle with major financial issues in addition to putting a winning team on the pitch, so must United given their near-£700million debt.
So Gill has no interest in attempting to match City, or Real Madrid, the summer's other colossal spenders, for that matter.
"It is highly unlikely that we would want to go to those levels," said Gill.
"We don't think it's necessary because we are looking to the medium and long term.
"United has been around since 1878 and our job is to make sure it is still around for many more years in a sensible fashion.
"That is by generating our own income. There will be ups and downs but, overall, we think that what we are doing is having a sustainable business model for the long-term."
With City, the motive is fairly obvious. Mega-rich owners wanting to make a big impact.
At the Bernabeu, Gill senses a flaw.
"I don't understand the economics of what Real Madrid are doing," said Gill.
"Their turnover is not materially different to ours so I am not quite sure how they can make the profits to justify the salaries.
"It's none of my business I suppose but I don't think they can."
The departures of Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo, plus the refusal of Karim Benzema to entertain a move to Old Trafford once he knew Real Madrid were offering more cash, proves the lure of United cannot conquer all.
However, Gill is confident the attraction is still there, enough to ensure they can continue to recruit the players to keep them at the top.
"Not everyone wants to come. Not everyone loves Manchester United," he said.
"But if we continue to grow our revenue, that will deliver more profitable income, which we can then put into the players. Then we can continue to attract and retain the best players in the world.
"We should not under-sell our key assets. We have the history and heritage of Manchester United and 76,000 people in the stadium every week.
"I still think we are a major attraction."
Beckham unapologetic after confronting fans
CARSON, Calif. (AP) - David Beckham offered no explanations or apologies for the way he confronted an angry group of Los Angeles Galaxy fans over the weekend.
"It's not a setback for myself. It's other people that have to change," Beckham said Thursday after practice. "It's not about whether I can move on. I wasn't the one booing."
Beckham confronted Galaxy fans in a group called the L.A. Riot Squad during Sunday night's 2-2 exhibition tie with AC Milan.
Members of the Riot Squad booed and jeered him during the game and displayed banners saying, "Go Home Fraud" and "Is Evil Something You Are or Something You Do?"
"Of course, I don't like my son seeing that and hearing that," Beckham said. "From an organized group of fans, I think it was disrespectful."
At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
Then after a second-half corner kick in front of the Riot Squad's section, Beckham immediately turned to those fans, put his index finger to his lips, shrugged his shoulders and blew them a kiss. The kick resulted in a goal.
"At the end of the day, I play my game," Beckham said. "If it's not good enough for some people, as long as it's good enough for myself and the team, nothing else matters."
The Riot Squad blamed Beckham for agitating the situation in a statement on the group's Web site Thursday.
"Had David responded differently on Sunday, the booing and the chanting probably would have ended at halftime," the statement read in part. "We don't believe questioning Beckham's commitment to our team is over the line, but it's clear that David feels otherwise."
Galaxy fans have been angry about Beckham's public desire to stay with AC Milan beyond March, the original end of his loan. Both clubs and Major League Soccer negotiated a deal to let Beckham stay until the end the Serie A season.
"We want to support David," the Riot Squad's statement continued. "We will almost certainly end the booing and chanting when Beckham plays in his first MLS match in our stadium, but it is ultimately up to David.
"If (he) shows the evident disinterest he did at the end of last season, or if he provokes us further, we might have something more to say to him."
Beckham was recently criticized in the book, "The Beckham Experiment" by Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan for not giving his full effort during the final half of last season.
Donovan said Thursday that he doesn't expect to see Beckham as a late addition to the MLS All-Star roster for the July 29 game against Everton.
Beckham has played in only two games with the Galaxy this summer since returning from a five-month loan to AC Milan.
"There's a lot of guys that have been here from minute one and worked very hard to get this honor," Donovan said. "And I don't think if asked that he would necessarily want to be on the team because he's a pretty honest guy. He works hard and he knows that a lot of guys deserve this."
"It's not a setback for myself. It's other people that have to change," Beckham said Thursday after practice. "It's not about whether I can move on. I wasn't the one booing."
Beckham confronted Galaxy fans in a group called the L.A. Riot Squad during Sunday night's 2-2 exhibition tie with AC Milan.
Members of the Riot Squad booed and jeered him during the game and displayed banners saying, "Go Home Fraud" and "Is Evil Something You Are or Something You Do?"
"Of course, I don't like my son seeing that and hearing that," Beckham said. "From an organized group of fans, I think it was disrespectful."
At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
Then after a second-half corner kick in front of the Riot Squad's section, Beckham immediately turned to those fans, put his index finger to his lips, shrugged his shoulders and blew them a kiss. The kick resulted in a goal.
"At the end of the day, I play my game," Beckham said. "If it's not good enough for some people, as long as it's good enough for myself and the team, nothing else matters."
The Riot Squad blamed Beckham for agitating the situation in a statement on the group's Web site Thursday.
"Had David responded differently on Sunday, the booing and the chanting probably would have ended at halftime," the statement read in part. "We don't believe questioning Beckham's commitment to our team is over the line, but it's clear that David feels otherwise."
Galaxy fans have been angry about Beckham's public desire to stay with AC Milan beyond March, the original end of his loan. Both clubs and Major League Soccer negotiated a deal to let Beckham stay until the end the Serie A season.
"We want to support David," the Riot Squad's statement continued. "We will almost certainly end the booing and chanting when Beckham plays in his first MLS match in our stadium, but it is ultimately up to David.
"If (he) shows the evident disinterest he did at the end of last season, or if he provokes us further, we might have something more to say to him."
Beckham was recently criticized in the book, "The Beckham Experiment" by Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan for not giving his full effort during the final half of last season.
Donovan said Thursday that he doesn't expect to see Beckham as a late addition to the MLS All-Star roster for the July 29 game against Everton.
Beckham has played in only two games with the Galaxy this summer since returning from a five-month loan to AC Milan.
"There's a lot of guys that have been here from minute one and worked very hard to get this honor," Donovan said. "And I don't think if asked that he would necessarily want to be on the team because he's a pretty honest guy. He works hard and he knows that a lot of guys deserve this."
Ochoa makes big save to send Mexico to finals
CHICAGO (AP) - No way Mexico was squandering this chance.
Guillermo Ochoa came up with the big save on the third penalty kick, giving El Tri a victory over Costa Rica on Thursday night and setting up a rematch in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final with its archrival, the United States. Mexico won 5-3 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 tie.
After Carlos Vela buried the fifth and final penalty into the corner of the net to seal the victory, he sprinted over and tackled Ochoa as the rest of their teammates rushed forward to join the dogpile.
This will be El Tri's sixth trip to the Gold Cup final, its only loss coming two years ago at the hands of the Americans. The final is Sunday at the Meadowlands in New Jersey.
"We're very happy as a team. This was a struggle against a very good team, but now we are through to the final," Ochoa said.
Mexico could have been through a lot earlier, blowing several chances to put the game away in the second half and in the first period of extra time. But when it counted most, Ochoa and his teammates came up big, making each of their penalties and getting that one critical save.
Froylan Ledezma, whose goal in the 93rd minute sent this game into extra time, took Costa Rica's third penalty kick. But as he connected, Ochoa dived to his left and thrust out his hands, smacking the ball away. Costa Rica would make its next penalty, but it wouldn't matter.
Sunday's final is sure to be highly charged, as all games between the United States and Mexico are. That the two have a World Cup qualifier Aug. 12 at Azteca - where the Americans have never one - only adds to the drama.
"We're not focusing on that right now, we're focusing on our next match," Ochoa said. "What's important is the match coming now, and we need to play well against them before we can start looking forward to (Aug. 12)."
At least Mexico will have its coach back. Javier Aguirre's three-game suspension for his altercation with Panama's Ricardo Phillips during group play ended with Thursday night's game.
Though Mexico had few of its regular starters - like the United States in the first semifinal - any victory these days is big. El Tri has had more drama than a telenovela, with a revolving door of coaches, losses on the field and a surprisingly slow start to World Cup qualifying. Mexico is fourth in the CONCACAF region right now, with only the top three teams getting automatic spots in South Africa next year.
"This win tonight in this tournament is going to energize us," Aguirre said through a translator.
The game was wide open early, with both teams able to make deep runs and get into the area with little trouble. But Mexico seemed to have the edge in the second half, and had several chances to get on the board.
Ticos captain Freddy Fernandez was whistled for a handball in the 56th minute after a cross by Jose Antonio Castro smacked his upper arm. Miguel Sabah, whose four goals lead the Gold Cup, took the penalty kick but the ball rolled right to Costa Rica goalkeeper Keilor Navas. Navas dived on it, smothering it and drawing groans from the Mexico fans who made up much of the crowd of 55,173 at Soldier Field.
In the 82nd minute, Fernandez tripped Carlos Vela and was given a yellow card. Castro took the kick from about 25 yards, but instead of directing it toward the goal, he kicked it to the side and it was immediately cleared by a Ticos defender.
Mexico finally broke through in the 88th minute when Guillermo Franco scored from the edge of the 6-yard box. Navas swatted at the ball, but it bounced backward and over the goal line. The stadium erupted - someone even threw a smoking flare on the field - and Franco pulled his jersey out with pride.
But the celebration was short-lived. Three minutes into stoppage time and seconds from the final whistle, Alvaro Saborio headed the ball forward and Ledezma beat Juan Carlos Valenzuela for it. Ochoa had no chance at the laser from 10 yards, taking the game into extra time.
And just as it did in the second half, Mexico couldn't capitalize on several opportunities.
In the sixth minute of the first overtime, El Tri got a free kick thanks to a foul by Christian Oviedo and Giovani Dos Santos' delivered it right into the scrum in front of the goal before Navas punched it clear.
A minute later, Dos Santos made a beautiful run, finishing with a perfect cross to Vela at the far post. But Vela muffed the shot, banging it off a couple of Costa Rican defenders.
"These were two teams playing their best to reach the final, and we each had many chances to score more goals," Aguirre said. "The game could have ended without going to penalties, and we will need to take advantage (of those chances) in the final."
Guillermo Ochoa came up with the big save on the third penalty kick, giving El Tri a victory over Costa Rica on Thursday night and setting up a rematch in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final with its archrival, the United States. Mexico won 5-3 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 tie.
After Carlos Vela buried the fifth and final penalty into the corner of the net to seal the victory, he sprinted over and tackled Ochoa as the rest of their teammates rushed forward to join the dogpile.
This will be El Tri's sixth trip to the Gold Cup final, its only loss coming two years ago at the hands of the Americans. The final is Sunday at the Meadowlands in New Jersey.
"We're very happy as a team. This was a struggle against a very good team, but now we are through to the final," Ochoa said.
Mexico could have been through a lot earlier, blowing several chances to put the game away in the second half and in the first period of extra time. But when it counted most, Ochoa and his teammates came up big, making each of their penalties and getting that one critical save.
Froylan Ledezma, whose goal in the 93rd minute sent this game into extra time, took Costa Rica's third penalty kick. But as he connected, Ochoa dived to his left and thrust out his hands, smacking the ball away. Costa Rica would make its next penalty, but it wouldn't matter.
Sunday's final is sure to be highly charged, as all games between the United States and Mexico are. That the two have a World Cup qualifier Aug. 12 at Azteca - where the Americans have never one - only adds to the drama.
"We're not focusing on that right now, we're focusing on our next match," Ochoa said. "What's important is the match coming now, and we need to play well against them before we can start looking forward to (Aug. 12)."
At least Mexico will have its coach back. Javier Aguirre's three-game suspension for his altercation with Panama's Ricardo Phillips during group play ended with Thursday night's game.
Though Mexico had few of its regular starters - like the United States in the first semifinal - any victory these days is big. El Tri has had more drama than a telenovela, with a revolving door of coaches, losses on the field and a surprisingly slow start to World Cup qualifying. Mexico is fourth in the CONCACAF region right now, with only the top three teams getting automatic spots in South Africa next year.
"This win tonight in this tournament is going to energize us," Aguirre said through a translator.
The game was wide open early, with both teams able to make deep runs and get into the area with little trouble. But Mexico seemed to have the edge in the second half, and had several chances to get on the board.
Ticos captain Freddy Fernandez was whistled for a handball in the 56th minute after a cross by Jose Antonio Castro smacked his upper arm. Miguel Sabah, whose four goals lead the Gold Cup, took the penalty kick but the ball rolled right to Costa Rica goalkeeper Keilor Navas. Navas dived on it, smothering it and drawing groans from the Mexico fans who made up much of the crowd of 55,173 at Soldier Field.
In the 82nd minute, Fernandez tripped Carlos Vela and was given a yellow card. Castro took the kick from about 25 yards, but instead of directing it toward the goal, he kicked it to the side and it was immediately cleared by a Ticos defender.
Mexico finally broke through in the 88th minute when Guillermo Franco scored from the edge of the 6-yard box. Navas swatted at the ball, but it bounced backward and over the goal line. The stadium erupted - someone even threw a smoking flare on the field - and Franco pulled his jersey out with pride.
But the celebration was short-lived. Three minutes into stoppage time and seconds from the final whistle, Alvaro Saborio headed the ball forward and Ledezma beat Juan Carlos Valenzuela for it. Ochoa had no chance at the laser from 10 yards, taking the game into extra time.
And just as it did in the second half, Mexico couldn't capitalize on several opportunities.
In the sixth minute of the first overtime, El Tri got a free kick thanks to a foul by Christian Oviedo and Giovani Dos Santos' delivered it right into the scrum in front of the goal before Navas punched it clear.
A minute later, Dos Santos made a beautiful run, finishing with a perfect cross to Vela at the far post. But Vela muffed the shot, banging it off a couple of Costa Rican defenders.
"These were two teams playing their best to reach the final, and we each had many chances to score more goals," Aguirre said. "The game could have ended without going to penalties, and we will need to take advantage (of those chances) in the final."
Beckham unapologetic after confronting fans
CARSON, Calif. (AP) - David Beckham offered no explanations or apologies for the way he confronted an angry group of Los Angeles Galaxy fans over the weekend.
"It's not a setback for myself. It's other people that have to change," Beckham said Thursday after practice. "It's not about whether I can move on. I wasn't the one booing."
Beckham confronted Galaxy fans in a group called the L.A. Riot Squad during Sunday night's 2-2 exhibition tie with AC Milan.
Members of the Riot Squad booed and jeered him during the game and displayed banners saying, "Go Home Fraud" and "Is Evil Something You Are or Something You Do?"
"Of course, I don't like my son seeing that and hearing that," Beckham said. "From an organized group of fans, I think it was disrespectful."
At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
Then after a second-half corner kick in front of the Riot Squad's section, Beckham immediately turned to those fans, put his index finger to his lips, shrugged his shoulders and blew them a kiss. The kick resulted in a goal.
"At the end of the day, I play my game," Beckham said. "If it's not good enough for some people, as long as it's good enough for myself and the team, nothing else matters."
The Riot Squad blamed Beckham for agitating the situation in a statement on the group's Web site Thursday.
"Had David responded differently on Sunday, the booing and the chanting probably would have ended at halftime," the statement read in part. "We don't believe questioning Beckham's commitment to our team is over the line, but it's clear that David feels otherwise."
Galaxy fans have been angry about Beckham's public desire to stay with AC Milan beyond March, the original end of his loan. Both clubs and Major League Soccer negotiated a deal to let Beckham stay until the end the Serie A season.
"We want to support David," the Riot Squad's statement continued. "We will almost certainly end the booing and chanting when Beckham plays in his first MLS match in our stadium, but it is ultimately up to David.
"If (he) shows the evident disinterest he did at the end of last season, or if he provokes us further, we might have something more to say to him."
Beckham was recently criticized in the book, "The Beckham Experiment" by Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan for not giving his full effort during the final half of last season.
Donovan said Thursday that he doesn't expect to see Beckham as a late addition to the MLS All-Star roster for the July 29 game against Everton.
Beckham has played in only two games with the Galaxy this summer since returning from a five-month loan to AC Milan.
"There's a lot of guys that have been here from minute one and worked very hard to get this honor," Donovan said. "And I don't think if asked that he would necessarily want to be on the team because he's a pretty honest guy. He works hard and he knows that a lot of guys deserve this."
"It's not a setback for myself. It's other people that have to change," Beckham said Thursday after practice. "It's not about whether I can move on. I wasn't the one booing."
Beckham confronted Galaxy fans in a group called the L.A. Riot Squad during Sunday night's 2-2 exhibition tie with AC Milan.
Members of the Riot Squad booed and jeered him during the game and displayed banners saying, "Go Home Fraud" and "Is Evil Something You Are or Something You Do?"
"Of course, I don't like my son seeing that and hearing that," Beckham said. "From an organized group of fans, I think it was disrespectful."
At halftime, Beckham walked toward the group while shouting and pointing. He challenged fans to meet him on the field and tried to lift himself over advertising boards before security intervened. Police arrested a fan who left the stands.
Then after a second-half corner kick in front of the Riot Squad's section, Beckham immediately turned to those fans, put his index finger to his lips, shrugged his shoulders and blew them a kiss. The kick resulted in a goal.
"At the end of the day, I play my game," Beckham said. "If it's not good enough for some people, as long as it's good enough for myself and the team, nothing else matters."
The Riot Squad blamed Beckham for agitating the situation in a statement on the group's Web site Thursday.
"Had David responded differently on Sunday, the booing and the chanting probably would have ended at halftime," the statement read in part. "We don't believe questioning Beckham's commitment to our team is over the line, but it's clear that David feels otherwise."
Galaxy fans have been angry about Beckham's public desire to stay with AC Milan beyond March, the original end of his loan. Both clubs and Major League Soccer negotiated a deal to let Beckham stay until the end the Serie A season.
"We want to support David," the Riot Squad's statement continued. "We will almost certainly end the booing and chanting when Beckham plays in his first MLS match in our stadium, but it is ultimately up to David.
"If (he) shows the evident disinterest he did at the end of last season, or if he provokes us further, we might have something more to say to him."
Beckham was recently criticized in the book, "The Beckham Experiment" by Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan for not giving his full effort during the final half of last season.
Donovan said Thursday that he doesn't expect to see Beckham as a late addition to the MLS All-Star roster for the July 29 game against Everton.
Beckham has played in only two games with the Galaxy this summer since returning from a five-month loan to AC Milan.
"There's a lot of guys that have been here from minute one and worked very hard to get this honor," Donovan said. "And I don't think if asked that he would necessarily want to be on the team because he's a pretty honest guy. He works hard and he knows that a lot of guys deserve this."
U.S. beats Honduras 2-0 to reach Gold Cup finals
CHICAGO (AP) - First the big boys in South Africa, now the JV at home. No matter who the United States puts on the field these days, they're finding a way to win.
Clarence Goodson scored at the end of the first half and Kenny Cooper at the end of the second to give a young American team a 2-0 victory over Honduras on Thursday night and a spot in its third straight CONCACAF Gold Cup final.
The Americans, winners of the last two Gold Cup titles, will play Mexico in Sunday's final at the Meadowlands. The Mexicans edged Costa Rica 5-3 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 tie.
"It's a big opportunity for all of us, and we're all trying to take advantage of that," said Goodson, who got his first goal in his fifth appearance with the U.S. team.
Honduras had a chance to tie with 5 minutes to play, but goalkeeper Troy Perkins and defender Jay Heaps made big stops. Perkins made an excellent save on a shot by Carlo Costly, then Heaps made a sliding block to clear the rebound and end the threat.
Cooper then sealed the victory with a goal in the 90th, one-timing a pass from Stuart Holden past Honduran goalkeeper Donis Escobar. As the Americans celebrated, Escobar leaned into the net, stone-faced.
It was the U.S. team's third win over Honduras in less than seven weeks, and the second at Soldier Field.
"I think it's going to be a sweet and sour taste going back home," Honduras coach Reinaldo Rueda said. "We have to accept reality and learn from what we experienced here. ... We didn't reach our objective in reaching the final."
The U.S. men stunned the soccer world last month by upsetting top-ranked Spain before falling to Brazil in the Confederations Cup. The Gold Cup may not have quite the buzz as that tournament, which also featured World Cup champion Italy, but this run is impressive in its own right.
U.S. coach Bob Bradley did a complete makeover of his roster after the Confederations Cup, letting most of his top players return to their MLS teams or take time off ahead of the European season. In their place, he brought in a bunch of youngsters, many making their first appearances with the senior national team.
While they might not have the flair of Landon Donovan, Tim Howard or Carlos Bocanegra, the kids have been more than all right.
The Americans have gone unbeaten in the tournament, and several young players have emerged who could play a role in next year's World Cup. Goodson is the sixth American to get his first goal during the Gold Cup. Holden had assists on both goals Thursday, adding to the two he scored in earlier games.
"They're not intimidated by the situations," said Brian Ching, the lone regular starter on the Gold Cup roster after missing the Confederations Cup with a strained hamstring. "Some of the guys have shown well, and that's always a good sign of things to come."
The Americans beat the Hondurans in the opening round of the Gold Cup, and it was clear early on the result would likely be the same Thursday. The United States had significant advantage in shots on goal (17-10) and corner kicks (10-5).
And that was even with squandering several chances late in the first half, including near-misses by both Holden and Ching in the final 3 minutes. Holden's free kick in the 43rd was tipped over the crossbar by Escobar, while Ching grazed the crossbar a minute later with a left-footed shot from close range.
Finally, in stoppage time, the Americans broke through off a corner kick by Holden.
After Holden took his first corner in practice Wednesday, Bradley walked onto the field and stood directly in front of the goal, telling Goodson, "This is where you need to be."
Good call.
Goodson outjumped Costly for the ball and headed it past Escobar into the net. Goodson is the 10th U.S. player to score during the Gold Cup; the Americans have 12 goals overall.
"It was a momentum changer, for sure," Goodson said. "Obviously 1-0 gave us a huge boost. To come out of the first half with nothing, I'm sure they went into their locker room depressed."
The Americans kept up the pressure, with shots by Holden and Chad Marshall in the opening minutes of the second half. But they couldn't convert.
"For sure the opportunities we had in the early part of the second half, you worry about," Bradley said. "Sometimes when you don't take advantage of opportunities, you pay for it."
The Americans finally got their insurance goal in the 90th minute, thanks to a nice setup by Ching and Holden. Ching flicked the ball to Holden - his teammate on the Houston Dynamo - with his back heel, and Holden crossed to Cooper for the one-timer and the victory.
"We knew from the start of the tournament it was a great opportunity for some younger players," Bradley said. "But we also made it clear we were the defending champs."
Clarence Goodson scored at the end of the first half and Kenny Cooper at the end of the second to give a young American team a 2-0 victory over Honduras on Thursday night and a spot in its third straight CONCACAF Gold Cup final.
The Americans, winners of the last two Gold Cup titles, will play Mexico in Sunday's final at the Meadowlands. The Mexicans edged Costa Rica 5-3 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 tie.
"It's a big opportunity for all of us, and we're all trying to take advantage of that," said Goodson, who got his first goal in his fifth appearance with the U.S. team.
Honduras had a chance to tie with 5 minutes to play, but goalkeeper Troy Perkins and defender Jay Heaps made big stops. Perkins made an excellent save on a shot by Carlo Costly, then Heaps made a sliding block to clear the rebound and end the threat.
Cooper then sealed the victory with a goal in the 90th, one-timing a pass from Stuart Holden past Honduran goalkeeper Donis Escobar. As the Americans celebrated, Escobar leaned into the net, stone-faced.
It was the U.S. team's third win over Honduras in less than seven weeks, and the second at Soldier Field.
"I think it's going to be a sweet and sour taste going back home," Honduras coach Reinaldo Rueda said. "We have to accept reality and learn from what we experienced here. ... We didn't reach our objective in reaching the final."
The U.S. men stunned the soccer world last month by upsetting top-ranked Spain before falling to Brazil in the Confederations Cup. The Gold Cup may not have quite the buzz as that tournament, which also featured World Cup champion Italy, but this run is impressive in its own right.
U.S. coach Bob Bradley did a complete makeover of his roster after the Confederations Cup, letting most of his top players return to their MLS teams or take time off ahead of the European season. In their place, he brought in a bunch of youngsters, many making their first appearances with the senior national team.
While they might not have the flair of Landon Donovan, Tim Howard or Carlos Bocanegra, the kids have been more than all right.
The Americans have gone unbeaten in the tournament, and several young players have emerged who could play a role in next year's World Cup. Goodson is the sixth American to get his first goal during the Gold Cup. Holden had assists on both goals Thursday, adding to the two he scored in earlier games.
"They're not intimidated by the situations," said Brian Ching, the lone regular starter on the Gold Cup roster after missing the Confederations Cup with a strained hamstring. "Some of the guys have shown well, and that's always a good sign of things to come."
The Americans beat the Hondurans in the opening round of the Gold Cup, and it was clear early on the result would likely be the same Thursday. The United States had significant advantage in shots on goal (17-10) and corner kicks (10-5).
And that was even with squandering several chances late in the first half, including near-misses by both Holden and Ching in the final 3 minutes. Holden's free kick in the 43rd was tipped over the crossbar by Escobar, while Ching grazed the crossbar a minute later with a left-footed shot from close range.
Finally, in stoppage time, the Americans broke through off a corner kick by Holden.
After Holden took his first corner in practice Wednesday, Bradley walked onto the field and stood directly in front of the goal, telling Goodson, "This is where you need to be."
Good call.
Goodson outjumped Costly for the ball and headed it past Escobar into the net. Goodson is the 10th U.S. player to score during the Gold Cup; the Americans have 12 goals overall.
"It was a momentum changer, for sure," Goodson said. "Obviously 1-0 gave us a huge boost. To come out of the first half with nothing, I'm sure they went into their locker room depressed."
The Americans kept up the pressure, with shots by Holden and Chad Marshall in the opening minutes of the second half. But they couldn't convert.
"For sure the opportunities we had in the early part of the second half, you worry about," Bradley said. "Sometimes when you don't take advantage of opportunities, you pay for it."
The Americans finally got their insurance goal in the 90th minute, thanks to a nice setup by Ching and Holden. Ching flicked the ball to Holden - his teammate on the Houston Dynamo - with his back heel, and Holden crossed to Cooper for the one-timer and the victory.
"We knew from the start of the tournament it was a great opportunity for some younger players," Bradley said. "But we also made it clear we were the defending champs."
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