World Cup heartbreak for England

England's roller-coaster campaign to host the 2018 World Cup ended in bitter and controversial defeat in Zurich on Thursday.

FIFA's executive committee voted to give the tournament to Russia ahead of England, Spain/Portugal and Holland/Belgium.
England looked to have suffered from a backlash against corruption investigations into FIFA members by BBC Panorama and the Sunday Times over the last two months.
These investigations were criticised both by Russian prime minister Vladimir Putin on Wednesday and Spain/Portugal bid president Angel Villar Llona in his presentation to fellow FIFA members on Thursday.
Villar Llona: said: "I love FIFA dearly but those I love the most are my colleagues in the ExCo.
"Recently we have been criticised by many media outlets. Unfortunately for them FIFA is a clean institution.
"FIFA values honesty, FIFA works for football and for the world and all my colleagues here present are all honest, hard-working football people and the people not here are also honest and hard-working.
"You have already heard enough slander in the media, the bidding process is clean regardless of what they say."
Six FIFA officials were last month suspended following a Sunday Times investigations and on Monday BBC Panorama claimed three other FIFA members had taken bribes in the 1990s.
The defeat comes despite an impressive presentation by England that was described by FIFA president Sepp Blatter as "excellent and remarkable".
Prince William, David Cameron and David Beckham all sparkled but were all outshone by 27-year-old Eddie Afekafe, who works on Manchester City's community programmes.
Afekafe explained how football had changed his life before introducing the prince to the 22 FIFA executive committee members.
William then said: "I love football, we English love football and it would be an honour for us to host the World Cup."
Beckham had made an emotional pitch, drawing on memories of his grandad Joe who died a year ago today, just before he took part in the South African World Cup draw in Cape Town.
Beckham said: "My life in football began with my grandad Joe. A year ago today my grandad died, the day before the draw. Now I want to do something that will make my grandad proud.
"Now I want to do more. Our dream is to stage a World Cup that benefits billions, that makes you, your grandchildren and everyone in football truly proud."
Earlier, Cameron had highlighted the Government's support and a commercial success for the tournament, and said England's bid would deliver for players, fans and FIFA.


www.espnstar.com

Vladimir Putin: World Cup decision was fair

The contest to host the 2018 World Cup was "fair", Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin insisted.

The contest to host the 2018 World Cup was "fair", Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin insisted tonight.
Putin, who did not go to Zurich until after Russia was declared the winner, said the country was "honoured" by FIFA's decision and dismissed suggestions England's bid was cheated.
He told a press conference: "Each bid is very special and significant.
"Each bid is a challenge and we are honoured to win in this tough and fair fight."
Mr Putin dismissed the suggestion that England had been "cheated" out of holding the World Cup.
He replied: "No, I don't think. You know, Great Britain is a great football country and in Russia we have a lot of fans of your football in general and your football players in particular.
"Great Britain lost. It lost, but we are waiting for you in 2018 and we will do our best for the football players, for the English football players, for them to realise themselves."
Describing the power of football to make a difference in the world "for the better", Putin pledged a successful World Cup in eight years' time.
He said: "You can take my word for it that the 2018 World Cup in Russia will be up to the highest standards.
"New modern stadiums and facilities will be built in time and to perfection.
"We are eager to do our best to secure the comfort and safety of our guests.
"Thank you for supporting Russia.
"Together let us make sure that football promotes fair play, tolerance, honour."
Asked why he did not join the bid team to take part in the presentation, Putin said it was a "complicated" decision which he had made himself.


www.espnstar.com

England's 2018 World Cup bid timeline

A look at the timeline of England's 2018 FIFA World Cup bid.

2007: October 31 - The FA confirm England will bid to host the 2018 World Cup finals.
2008: October 12 - The FA confirm Manchester United chief executive David Gill and Football League chairman Lord Mawhinney will both be on Lord Triesman's England 2018 Limited executive board.
October - Current and former England internationals David Beckham and John Barnes are appointed vice-presidents of the bid.
November 11 - England head coach Fabio Capello is one of six new bid vice-presidents announced. The others are Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon, former FA chairman Geoff Thompson, Professional Footballers' Association chief executive Gordon Taylor, Tesco chief executive Sir Terry Leahy and Lord Stern of Brentford, formerly chief economist of the World Bank.
November 20 - Andy Anson, the former commercial director of Manchester United, is appointed chief executive of England's bid.
2009: January 27 - England officially submit their bid.
February 2 - England are one of 11 nations - along with Spain/Portugal, Russia, Holland/Belgium, USA, Mexico, Australia, Japan, Qatar, Indonesia and South Korea - to express an interest in hosting the 2018 or 2022 World Cup finals.
March 17 - Mohamed Bin Hammam, the president of the Asian football Confederation and a FIFA executive committee member, said England ``deserve'' to host the World Cup.
March 19 - Premier League chairman Sir Dave Richards is appointed a deputy chairman of England's bid.
May 18 - Beckham, Wayne Rooney and then Prime Minister Gordon Brown officially launch England's bid at Wembley.
October 13 - Karren Brady, a former managing director of Birmingham, and former Celtic and Chelsea defender Paul Elliott are appointed as bid board members.
October 22 - The full 50-man squad of ambassadors for the bid is announced and includes then England captain John Terry.
October 22 - England chiefs insist they are acting ``within the spirit and letter'' of bidding rules after being criticised for making gifts of designer handbags to FIFA executive members.
November 4 - Jack Warner returns the designer handbag given to his wife by England bid leaders.
November 12 - England bid leaders announce a major re-structuring of its board following an emergency meeting. FIFA vice-president Geoff Thompson is included alongside Sir Dave Richards, Lord Mawhinney, Lord Coe, Elliott and Anson. Original board members such as David Gill, Sir Keith Mills and sports minister Gerry Sutcliffe are to join an advisory group headed by Brady.
November 24 - Premier League chairman Richards resigns from the England bid board.
2010: May 14 - Beckham presents England's 1,700-page bid book to FIFA president Sepp Blatter in Zurich.
May 16 - Allegations emerge that Lord Triesman accused the Spanish and Russian football federations of bribery. Triesman resigns from his positions as Football Association chairman and 2018 bid chief. He is replaced as bid chairman by Thompson.
May 17 - FIFA announce that their ethics committee will investigate Lord Triesman's comments but later decide not to pursue the matter.
October 19 - Russia's bid leader Alexei Sorokin speaks of London's ``high crime rate'' and youth alcohol problems in an interview.
October 26 - England bid chiefs confirm they have made a complaint to FIFA over Sorokin's comments.
October 28 - England bid is described as ``absolutely primitive'' and ``comical'' by Russian bid advisor Viacheslav Koloskov.
October 28 - England ready to withdraw complaint to FIFA against the head of Russia's World Cup bid after receiving an apology from Russian sports minister.
November 2 - A senior FIFA figure condemns an undercover investigation into World Cup bidding as ``unethical''.
November 4 - England leaders admit an undercover investigation into FIFA by a British newspaper has ``significantly damaged'' their bid to host the World Cup.
November 4 - England chiefs visit BBC director-general Mark Thompson to express fears that a Panorama investigation into FIFA could fatally harm their World Cup bid.
November 10 - The contents of a notorious note passed between two FIFA members indicates that Spain/Portugal and Qatar's World Cup bids will escape any action over allegations of collusion.
November 11 - Prince William and Prime Minister David Cameron revealed as part of England's delegation for December's vote.
November 12 - Dein meets Blatter in Zurich in an effort to revive the struggling bid.
November 15 - England bid leaders send letter to all FIFA executive committee members to try to repair the damage caused by two media investigations.
November 17 - England and Spain/Portugal's 2018 World Cup bids are ranked equally as 'low risk' overall by FIFA's inspectors but rivals Russia are 'medium risk'.
November 17 - Anson accuses the BBC of being ``unpatriotic'' and ``sensationalist'' by choosing to broadcast a Panorama expose of FIFA three days before the vote.
November 18 - Cameron telephones FIFA's vice-president Warner to invite him to lunch in an effort to boost England's hopes.
November 22 - Warner hits out at Panorama's investigation by claiming it has been ``deliberately designed to negatively impact'' on England's chances of hosting the tournament.
November 23 - The head of Spain/Portugal's World Cup 2018 bid claim they already have as many as eight of the 22 FIFA votes in the bag.
November 24 - England's bid hopes dealt a blow after it was reported that South America's three FIFA members will all vote for Spain/Portugal.
November 25 - The Qatari president of the Asian Football Confederation confirms for the first time that he will support Spain/Portugal's bid.
November 26 - Cameron speaks of his frustration that Panorama will screen their programme just three days before the World Cup vote.
November 28 - Asian Football Confederation (AFC) president Mohamed bin Hammam denies reports stating that he has agreed to back the Spain/Portugal bid.
November 29 - Panorama accuse three FIFA executive committee members of taking bribes.
November 30 - UEFA president Michel Platini insists the BBC Panorama programme should not affect England's bid.
November 30 - Warner brushes aside the Panorama programme insisting he has no interest in the claims made.
November 30 - Panorama's claims of corruption against FIFA vice-president Issa Hayatou to be investigated by the International Olympic Committee. Hayatou threatens legal action against Panorama. Hayatou also says he will not take out his anger on England's bid.
December 1 - England's bid receives a huge boost after Vladimir Putin, prime minister of Russia, confirms he will not be travelling to Zurich for the vote.
December 2 - Prince William leads England's 2018 World Cup presentation to FIFA by telling members: ``I love football, we English love football and it would be an honour for us to host the World Cup.''
December 2 - England lose the bid to Russia and Qatar gets the 2022 hosting rights.


www.espnstar.com

Russia and Qatar land World Cups

Russia and Qatar have won the rights to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups respectively as announced by FIFA on Thursday in Zurich.

The result means England's roller-coaster campaign to host the 2018 World Cup ended in bitter and controversial defeat.

FIFA's executive committee voted to give the 2018 tournament to Russia ahead of England, Spain/Portugal and Holland/Belgium.

England looked to have suffered from a backlash against corruption investigations into FIFA members by BBC Panorama and the Sunday Times over the last two months.

These investigations were criticised both by Russian prime minister Vladimir Putin yesterday and Spain/Portugal bid president Angel Villar Llona in his presentation to fellow FIFA members on Thursday.

Villar Llona: said: "I love FIFA dearly but those I love the most are my colleagues in the ExCo.

"Recently we have been criticised by many media outlets. Unfortunately for them FIFA is a clean institution.

"FIFA values honesty, FIFA works for football and for the world and all my colleagues here present are all honest, hard-working football people and the people not here are also honest and hard-working.

"You have already heard enough slander in the media, the bidding process is clean regardless of what they say."

Six FIFA officials were last month suspended following a Sunday Times investigations and on Monday BBC Panorama claimed three other FIFA members had taken bribes in the 1990s.

The defeat comes despite an impressive presentation by England that was described by FIFA president Sepp Blatter as "excellent and remarkable".

Prince William, David Cameron and David Beckham all sparkled but were all outshone by 27-year-old Eddie Afekafe, who works on Manchester City's community programmes.

Afekafe explained how football had changed his life before introducing the prince to the 22 FIFA executive committee members.

William then said: "I love football, we English love football and it would be an honour for us to host the World Cup."

Beckham had made an emotional pitch, drawing on memories of his grandad Joe who died a year ago today, just before he took part in the South African World Cup draw in Cape Town.

Beckham said: "My life in football began with my grandad Joe. A year ago today my grandad died, the day before the draw. Now I want to do something that will make my grandad proud.

"Now I want to do more. Our dream is to stage a World Cup that benefits billions, that makes you, your grandchildren and everyone in football truly proud."

Earlier, Cameron had highlighted the Government's support and a commercial success for the tournament, and said England's bid would deliver for players, fans and FIFA.

Handed the World Cup by Blatter, Russian deputy prime minister Igor Shuvalov celebrated, saying: "You have entrusted us with the Fifa World Cup for 2018 and I can promise, we all can promise, you will never regret it.

"Let us make history together."

Major of London Boris Johnson told reporters that, according to information he had received about the voting, England had been knocked out in the first round.

Meanwhile, Qatar will host the World Cup finals for the first time after FIFA awarded them the rights to the 2022 tournament.

Qatar beat bids from Australia, the United States and 2002 World Cup co-hosts Japan and South Korea.

The FIFA executive committees' decision comes as a slight surprise after the US and Australia bids had been highly-fancied.

Qatar's staging of the tournament had come in for some criticism because of the weather in the country during June and July - when temperatures can rise as high as 50 degrees Celsius - while the close proximity of the stadiums had also raised some questions.

Qatar's success in Thursday's vote comes just over a month before they are schedule to host the Asian Cup finals.

www.espnstar.com

Leaks expose US and UK fears over Pakistan nuclear arms

US and UK diplomats feared Pakistan's nuclear material could fall into the hands of terrorists, the latest leaked classified US diplomatic cables reveal.

The documents, released by Wikileaks, warn that Pakistan is rapidly building its nuclear stockpile despite the country's growing instability.

There is also scepticism about whether Pakistan could cut links to militants.

A Pakistan spokesman quoted by AFP said the fears were "misplaced and fall in the realm of condescension".

Separately, Interpol has issued a notice asking for information on the whereabouts of Wikileaks founder, Julian Assange.

'Historical biases'

In one of the latest cables to be released by Wikileaks, senior UK Foreign Office official Mariot Leslie told US diplomats in September 2009 that Britain had "deep concerns about the safety and security of Pakistan's nuclear weapons".

In another cable seven months earlier, then-US ambassador Anne Patterson told Washington: "Our major concern is not having an Islamic militant steal an entire weapon but rather the chance someone working in government of Pakistan facilities could gradually smuggle enough material out to eventually make a weapon."

Another cable concerning a US intelligence briefing in 2008 said: "Despite pending economic catastrophe, Pakistan is producing nuclear weapons at a faster rate than any other country in the world."

On Wednesday, Agence France-Presse news agency quoted Pakistan foreign office spokesman Abdul Basit as saying: "Their fears are misplaced and doubtless fall in the realm of condescension.

"There has not been a single incident involving our fissile material, which clearly reflects how strong our controls and mechanisms are. It is time they part with their historical biases against Pakistan."

Ms Patterson had also said there was "no chance" of Pakistan "abandoning support for [militant] groups".

The Pakistan government, she added, saw militant groups "as an important part of its national security apparatus against India".

The US also expressed concern about tensions between the powerful Pakistani army and President Asif Ali Zardari.

In material from March 2009, US cables noted that army chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani might "however reluctantly" put pressure on President Zadari to stop down, although he "distrusted [opposition leader] Nawaz [Sharif] even more".

Reliability questioned The US has condemned the Wikileaks disclosures as an attack on the world community.

Analysis

International concerns over the security of Pakistan's nuclear materials are not new, nor is Pakistan the only country to attract such concerns.
But the stark language used in these confidential diplomatic cables gives us the clearest picture yet of what Western governments really fear - al-Qaeda or fellow jihadist militants getting their hands on enough nuclear material from Pakistan to build a crude nuclear device.
This is thought unlikely to be a full-scale nuclear bomb but more feasibly a Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD), consisting of radioactive material wrapped around conventional explosive.
If detonated it could scatter dangerous material over a wide area.
The Pakistani media has expressed indignation in the past over any suggestion that the country's nukes are not secure. Some commentators have suggested this is deliberate scaremongering by the West so as to eventually seize control of Pakistan's strategic weapons.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the diplomatic service relied, as did other professions such as law and medicine, on confidential communications to conduct some important business.

She said the international partnerships the US had worked hard to build would withstand the challenge posed by the leak cables.

The latest cache of messages, published by the UK Guardian newspaper, shows that Russia shared US and UK concerns over Pakistan.

Yuri Korolev, of the Russian foreign ministry, told US officials in February that "Islamists are not only seeking power in Pakistan but are also trying to get their hands on nuclear materials".

"There are 120,000-130,000 people directly involved in Pakistan's nuclear and missile programmes. There is no way to guarantee that all are 100% loyal and reliable," he said.

He said that extremists were able to recruit more easily.

"Pakistan has had to hire people to protect nuclear facilities that have especially strict religious beliefs, and recently the general educational and cultural levels in Pakistan has been falling," he says in the cable.

'Spoiled child'.

The communications between the US State Department and its embassies and consulates around the world were sent between 1966 and 2010.

Other revelations from the despatches include:

• China has become frustrated with North Korea behaving like a "spoiled child" and was coming around to the view that the Korean peninsula could become reunified under Seoul's leadership
• Several Arab states, including Saudi Arabia, urged the US to take military action to bring an end to Iran's suspected nuclear weapons programme
• Afghan President Hamid Karzai freed dangerous detainees and pardoned suspected drug dealers because they were linked to powerful or historically significant figures
• Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown proposed a deal with the US in which suspected computer hacker Gary McKinnon plead guilty in return for a guarantee that he serve his sentence in the UK
• Former British Guantanamo Bay detainee Moazzam Begg was praised by US ambassador to Luxembourg Cynthia Stroum for his campaign to persuade European countries to take in remaining inmates. Mr Begg was arrested by the CIA in 2002 and released from Guantanamo in 2005. He was never charged with any offence.

Wikileaks has so far posted only 291 of the 251,287 messages it says it has obtained. However, all of the messages have been made available to five publications, including the New York Times and the Guardian.

No-one has been charged with passing them to Wikileaks, but suspicion has fallen on US Army Private Bradley Manning, an intelligence analyst arrested in Iraq in June and charged over an earlier leak of a classified video.

On Tuesday, Wikileaks said it was coming under cyber-attack for the second time in three days. The Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack, as it is known, works by flooding a target with too much data for it to handle.

The cables release is the third mass Wikileaks publication of classified documents; it published 77,000 secret US files on the Afghan conflict in July, and 400,000 documents about the Iraq war in October.

Meanwhile, Interpol has issued a "Red Notice" asking people to contact the police if they have any information about Mr Assange's whereabouts.

It said the Australian was wanted for questioning in Sweden over an alleged sex offence, which he has denied.

www.bbc.com

U.S. fears Iran has long-range missile, but Russia calls it a 'myth'.

Washington (CNN) -- The United States believes that North Korea is supplying Iran with long-range missiles, suggesting Iran has strike capabilities are stronger than discussed in public, according to one of the leaked U.S. diplomatic cables released Sunday.

The issue was raised by American diplomats in a high level-meeting with their Russian counterparts in late 2009, but the Russians expressed doubt on the U.S. concern, according to the cable. The revelation is in one of the documents published by WikiLeaks, the online whistleblower website that began releasing a cache of more than 250,000 cables Sunday.

The document, dated February 24 and labeled "secret," details a meeting between the United States and Russia in which U.S. representatives expressed belief that North Korea supplied Iran with missiles.

The cable cites the U.S. belief that 19 BM-25 missiles were shipped to Iran in 2005. According to Jane's, a weapons research company, the missiles are reported to have a range somewhere between 2,500 and 4,000 km (1,560 to 2,500 miles)

The Russians expressed doubts about the claim, citing lack of evidence, the cable states. But the Americans countered that some countries have offered direct evidence, and said they would try to bring further evidence to future meetings.

The United States believes that Iran wanted the missiles for the propulsion technology. But in an exchange described in the cable, U.S. and Russian officials debated whether North Korea even had the BM-25 missile at all, and the Russians asked whether the United States had any images of the missile.

"The U.S. did not, but noted that North Korea had paraded the missile through the streets of Pyongyang. Russia disagreed," the cable noted. The Russians countered that a review of the video of that parade showed a different video and "the missile appears to be a myth."

In what the cable describes as a "vigorous session of questions and answers" discussing ballistic missile threats, Russia detailed its assessment of Iran's missile program, and the degree to which Russia believes these programs constitute threats that would require missile defense responses. The cable said Russia believes Iran's "success" is that it has created Shahab-3 missiles that can reach targets in the Middle East and southeastern Europe, but they cannot do substantial damage with conventional warheads.

According to the cable, the Russian Defense Ministry's Evgeny Zudin said that although Iran can build prototypes of long-range systems, it lacks structural materials such as high-quality aluminum to do so, and it also does not have the materials necessary for the kind of mass production that would make it a security threat at the moment or in the near future.

Russia believes although Iran might be able to begin a ballistic missile program with a 2,000- to 3000-mile (3,200-to 4,800-km) range after 2015, it does not see Iran moving in this direction. Russia has instead concluded that Iran's ballistic missile program is directed toward developing combat-ready missiles to address regional concerns, the cable states.

"In their analysis, the missile programs of Iran and the [North Koreans] are not sufficiently developed, and their intentions to use missiles against the U.S. or Russia are nonexistent, thus not constituting a "threat" requiring the deployment of missile defenses," the cable's author noted.

www.cnn.com

Spanish LA Liga : FC Barcelona 5-0 Real Madrid CF

A brace from David Villa led Barcelona to an incredible rout of Real Madrid - who lost for the first time under Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho had gone unbeaten in his first 19 games in all competitions since joining Madrid in the summer, but the Portuguese was unable to avoid defeat in the biggest one of all as Pep Guardiola maintained his perfect record as Barca coach in the Clasico with a fifth straight victory over Real.

Xavi and Pedro put Barca two up within 17 minutes, while Villa made it a night to remember at a packed Nou Camp with two goals early in the second half and substitute Jeffren Suarez added a fifth right at the end.

To add insult to injury for Madrid, they finished the match with 10 men after Sergio Ramos pushed Carles Puyol in the face late on.

It was some revenge for Barca - and Guardiola - after Mourinho, then coach of Inter Milan, knocked the Catalan side out of the Champions League at the semi-final stage last season here.

Mourinho handed a rare start to France striker Karim Benzema, out of favour for most of this season, after Gonzalo Higuain failed a late fitness test.

Guardiola, though, was able to field his strongest XI, which of course included Lionel Messi.

And the Argentina winger, yet to score against a side coached by Mourinho, almost did so after five minutes, when he beat Madrid keeper Iker Casillas with an exquisite chip from a tight angle, only to see his effort rebound off the post.

But four minutes later, Barca did go ahead.

Andres Iniesta's perfectly-weighted through-ball found Xavi and the midfielder took one touch to control, albeit with some fortune, before clipping the ball past Casillas on the volley from close range.

Angel di Maria tested Victor Valdes with a stinging effort at the other end two minutes later, but Barca made it 2-0 in their very next attack.

It came after 17 minutes and was scored by Barca's number 17 - Pedro.

The Spain forward was left with a simple tap-in from close range after Casillas failed to deal with Villa's low cross from the left.

That followed a long passing move from the home side and the Catalans looked good for their lead.

An unseemly brawl followed after half an hour, when Cristiano Ronaldo pushed Guardiola in the chest, with the Barca coach having refused to hand the ball to the Portugal winger on the touchline.

Ronaldo was shown the yellow card and received huge jeers every time he touched the ball after that.

The former Manchester United forward came close with a free-kick later in the half and also saw a decent penalty appeal turned down after he went to ground following a challenge with Valdes.

Messi was booked for simulation a minute before the interval for exaggerating a foul by Ricardo Carvalho.

Barca began the second half brightly and after Xavi and Villa missed good chances early on, the latter made it 3-0 with only 54 minutes on the clock.

The Spain striker latched onto Messi's pass and beat Casillas with a clinical finish in the area, although he looked to be marginally offside when the ball was played.

The same combination made it 4-0 three minutes later as Messi set up Villa once more and the former Valencia forward slid the ball through Casillas' legs as the keeper came out to narrow the angle.

The Nou Camp was rocking after that and Barca dominated right until the end.

Substitute Bojan Krkic saw his fierce effort saved by Casillas and was unable to stay on his feet as he raced clear moments earlier.

But Jeffren, who replaced Pedro with three minutes left, did make it five in added time when he clipped the ball past Casillas from close range after a low cross from the right.

Madrid's misery was compounded right at the end as the visitors finished the game with 10 men after Ramos hit out at Puyol and was shown the red card.

www.espnstar.com

El Classico : Messi vs Ronaldo

The world's finest players square off on Monday when Lionel Messi's Barcelona host Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid.

Last year's 'Clasico' clashes were dominated by the Catalans, who won both games en route to winning La Liga. However, Madrid's appointment of Jose Mourinho has levelled the playing field and upped the ante ahead of Monday's big match.
Press Association Sport's Phil Barnett takes a look at the two key protagonists.
Speed
Over 100 metres on a track, the athletic Ronaldo would beat the impish Messi. Crucially, however, Messi can run with a ball nearly as quickly as he can without, while Ronaldo's close control is far less impressive. This makes them both more effective at different moments.
Skill
Ronaldo is a human highlight reel of superfluous flicks and tricks but is also able to utilise his impressive range of moves to affect matches. Messi has a far smaller bag of tricks and relies only on breathtaking natural ball control and dribbling - the best we've seen since Diego Maradona - to simply outstrip and outwit opponents.
Goalscoring
Ronaldo has the edge in front of goal. Comfortable with both feet and strong in the air, his record is also more impressive than Messi's, thanks in part to his development into a more central, forward role. However, Messi is catching him up as he also matures into a more advanced position and the two are currently neck and neck - Ronaldo has 14 La Liga goals, Messi 13.
Power
Ronaldo is bigger and stronger than Messi, who joined Barcelona when he needed growth hormone treatment as a boy and still bears a lightweight frame. The Portugal international can use his size to win balls in the air - when necessary - and maintain his performance for 90 minutes. Yet the diminutive Messi, who is nicknamed 'The Flea', is more robust when challenged, stays on his feet better and tracks back more often.
Temperament
While Messi is perceived as meek and mild, he is a key figure in the Barca dressing room and coach Pep Guardiola has groomed him to become an understated leader. His infectious enthusiasm, honesty and boyish naivety win him as many admirers as his skills although his tendency to stay on his feet when fouled may frustrate the more cynical Barca supporters. Ronaldo is the polar opposite - tempestuous, sulky and scheming. This, though, represents his winning mentality and commitment to the cause - be it the team's or his own.
Big game mentality
Both players have been accused of failing to turn up when it matters at times in their career. Messi's goal in the 2009 Champions League final against Manchester United helped erase those doubts, while Ronaldo's woeful World Cup and startlingly ineffective performances against Barca last year leave question marks over his mettle.
Verdict
Ronaldo is the machine, Messi the magician. The former's attributes stack up better on paper but Messi has the 'je ne sais quoi' which gives him the edge, however slight.


www.espnstar.com

Hodgson hits back at critics

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson insists their improvement from the start of the season shows they were written off too early.

Saturday's 3-0 win over West Ham at Anfield was achieved with the minimum amount of fuss - somewhat helpfully in the injury-enforced absence of captain Steven Gerrard - against a side who struggled to rise above mediocre.
The Reds' fourth victory in six Barclays Premier League matches came on the back of a defeat at Stoke the previous week, lifting them to within touching distance of the top four.
Having endured their worst start to a campaign since 1953/54 with six points from eight games they have now accrued 13 from their last six.
Encouraging performances from Raul Meireles, given the freedom of central midfield by the Hammers, and Glen Johnson show there can be optimism despite Gerrard being sidelined for a month.
Hodgson thinks, however, that his side is still being judged on their early-season form.
"There are two games this year which have done us untold damage," he said.
"The first was when a total reserve team - although it does not seem to have been noticed we had 14 first-team players who didn't play - lost to Northampton in the Carling Cup.
"The other was the disastrous (2-1) defeat to Blackpool at the end of a three-match week when we played in Europe.
"Those two defeats were costly for us because they encouraged people to make bold conclusions but we've lost one defeat in eight (in all competitions).
"There are still a lot of things to do but what pleased me against West Ham was the shape, discipline and organisation of the team.
"If we can keep that going with the quality of players we have got we can have a good season.
"Don't ask me what a good season is because I don't know but after the start we have had where we are now is making us feel pretty pleased."
Right-back Johnson returned after a three-match absence with a groin injury to score the first and put in a display which suggested he could very quickly rediscover his marauding form of old.
The England international chested down Meireles' corner to fire home before Dirk Kuyt converted from the spot after Danny Gabbidon's handball and Maxi Rodriguez headed in left-back Paul Konchesky's cross - all in the first 38 minutes.
West Ham were complicit in allowing their hosts the time and space they needed to pick them apart but there were small signs Hodgson's blueprint is beginning to take shape.
And his two full-backs are set to play a pivotal role.
"Glen was very good in everything he did, as was Paul on the other side," added Hodgson.
"It was nice to see Glen scoring the first goal and Paul crossing for the third because we do try to do some work in getting our full-backs in advanced positions by using the space the midfield players create.
"It gives you a chance to cause your opponents more problems because your movements drag them around.
"If you play with wingers up there who hug the line all the time it is a little bit easier to mark them rather than having players who move off the line into other positions.
"If you can work on that aspect to your play and you have full-backs who know when to go forward and exploit the space and, more importantly, can deliver the ball then you have half a chance."
Central midfield was expected to be a concern with Gerrard and Jay Spearing both out for the foreseeable future and Lucas Leiva suspended but the much-criticised Christian Poulsen had his best game since arriving in the summer, admittedly against weak opposition.
Meireles looked much happier operating centrally, where he does for Portugal, than he has done out wide.
"We work hard every day to win games but sometimes we don't win but we showed great football against West Ham," said the 27-year-old.
"I feel more comfortable playing in the middle but I play where the coach wants."
West Ham manager Avram Grant insists he is the right man to lead the club off the bottom of the Barclays Premier League table and away from the relegation zone.
"Even now I am sure we can get out of this. I don't analyse only the Liverpool game because it was poor," he said.
"If you look at recent performances we have done well and if we do it again we will win games because it cannot happen things will go against us all the time.
"We need to win even though there are a lot of games before the end of the season we need to start now because we are bottom."


www.espnstar.com

Suu Kyi calls for dialogue with Myanmar government

Yangon, Myanmar (CNN) -- Freed activist Aung San Suu Kyi pledged Monday to keep working toward restoring democracy and improving human rights in Myanmar, saying she is not concerned about being detained again in the future.

"Actually, I don't think about it," Suu Kyi, who was released from house arrest Saturday, said in her first comments to CNN. The 1991 Nobel Peace Prize recipient has spent 15 of the past 21 years under house arrest for her dogged opposition to authoritarian rule in Myanmar -- which she calls by its former name, Burma.

"I may be detained again," Suu Kyi said, noting she's been in and out of house arrest over the last two decades. "I just do what I can do at the moment," she said.

"We have to work together," she said. "That is the main message. Those inside the country have to work together and also those supporters outside."

Suu Kyi had much the same message for her supporters Sunday, telling them in a speech, "I'm not going to be able to do it alone. You've got to do it with me. One person alone can't do anything as important as bringing change and democracy to a country."

"We would like to form a network of people working for democracy," she told CNN Monday, and said she would like to open a dialogue with "those who are in a position to do something, to change the situation in Burma for the better."

She said she has had no contact with Gen. Than Shwe, Myanmar's top military leader and head of state. Asked what she would say to him, she said, "I think what we are looking for is dialogue, so I'm not just thinking about what I have to say to him. I think what we have to think about is what we have to say to each other."

She said she does not know what issues Shwe might want to bring up, but said she would like to discuss issues "relevant to the interests of Burma's people."

On the country's recent elections, she said her National League for Democracy party, although it played no role in the vote, is going to look into allegations of vote-rigging and other activities. She said that report could be provided to countries such as Vietnam who endorsed the balloting, and "they can study the report and decide for themselves how free and fair those elections were."

The probe will be done because of the "rule of law" and not because the party has anything to gain or lose, she said.

Asked whether Myanmar's current ruling military junta should remain in place, Suu Kyi said, "This is something that we have to discuss." She said she wants to know more about how citizens feel regarding the elections, find out more about sanctions and hear from those who imposed the sanctions.

"We have to review the situation from time to time," she said. "This is something that we've done over the years, and we're going to do it again."

Suu Kyi has not seen her children in about a decade. Asked if that will change soon, she said she wasn't sure, adding that her youngest son is in Bangkok, Thailand, awaiting a visa but had not yet been given one. She said she recently spoke with him -- "My conversations with my sons are always nice."

One person alone can't do anything as important as bringing change and democracy to a country.
--Aung San Suu Kyi

She also has grandchildren. She told CNN she met her oldest grandson about 10 years ago, "when he was very small."

She said she has no current plans to travel outside Myanmar, though she hopes to travel within its borders. She said she likely will not leave the country before seeing "significant progress in the way of democratic practices and human rights."

On how she spent her time while under house arrest, she said she stayed busy. "There were lots of things I had to take care of," she said. Suu Kyi said she listened to the radio for hours every day to stay in touch with the outside world and did a lot of reading. She was able to meet people from the outside, such as her attorneys and her doctors, she said. "There were never really enough hours in the day," she said. "I know that sounds strange."

A Facebook page supporting Suu Kyi has more than 250,000 fans. Asked whether she plans to join Facebook or Twitter, Suu Kyi said, "I was discussing this with some of the young people," who told her that most youths like Facebook because it's easier for them. She said she has not yet decided whether to join Facebook, Twitter -- or both.

She said she would rather consider the Facebook support as just that, support for her work, rather than popularity.

She noted that a number of political prisoners remain detained in Myanmar, and pleaded with the outside world not to forget them, saying that what they have to go through is "much worse" than her experience on house arrest. She also thanked those across the globe for supporting her.

 www.cnn.com

Obama pays tribute to Americans who have served in S. Korea

 U.S. President Barack Obama paid tribute Thursday to American troops who 60 years ago fought a Communist regime that he said continues to be a provocative threat to peace in the region.

Speaking on Veterans Day at the U.S. Army garrison in Yongsan, South Korea, the president drew parallels between America's ally and North Korea.

"Today, the Korean peninsula provides the world's clearest contrast between a society that is open and one that is closed; between a nation that is dynamic and growing, and a government that would rather starve its people than change," the president said in remarks prepared for U.S. military personnel and members of their families.

Obama, who made a reference to South Korea's claim earlier this year that North Korea sank one of its vessels, said the United States "will never waver in our commitment to the security of the Republic of Korea."

North Korea has another path besides pursuing nuclear weapons, Obama said.

"If they choose to fulfill their international obligations and commitments to the international community, they will have the chance to offer their people lives of growing opportunity instead of crushing poverty," he said.

Obama is in South Korea for Thursday's opening of the G-20 summit, which will try to stabilize the world's financial markets.

The president paid tribute to generations of men and women who served in the U.S. military.

He praised South Korean troops and Americans who fought during the 1950-53 Korean War.

"Gentlemen, we are honored by your presence," Obama said of Korean War veterans in the audience Thursday. We are grateful for your service. And the world is better off because of what you did here."

The crowd roared when the president acknowledged the 62 veterans.

"They are all standing," he said. "Looks like they're doing great. Let's give them a hand."

Obama also thanked those currently serving in South Korea, saying they "carry on the legacy of service and sacrifice."

The president later attended a wreath-laying ceremony at the Yongsan War Memorial. The president placed his hand on his heart before troops fired a 21-gun salute.

The president's visit to Seoul will include a meeting with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak and a meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao.

Tensions about currency and trade are likely to run high at the G-20 meeting, which will be held Thursday and Friday in Seoul, the South Korean capital.

Officials in China and the United States have accused the other of manipulating its currency at the expense of other economies. And the G-20 has acknowledged that the global economic recovery is advancing in "a fragile and uneven way."

Widespread protests are expected at the summit, for which South Korea has mobilized its largest security force ever, according to the Yonhap news agency. A total of 50,000 police and riot police are being deployed, authorities told Yonhap.

A number of South Korean union and civic groups are gearing up for large protests against the G-20, while other groups are planning unrelated rallies in hopes of drawing international media attention.

Protests by Muslims in Indonesia also preceded Obama's visit there. But the president focused on the two countries' shared principles of unity and tolerance when he delivered a highly anticipated speech at the University of Indonesia right before he left for South Korea.

In his speech, Obama reflected on the four years he spent in Indonesia as a child, referring to how he and his family were warmly accepted. He drew cheers when he sprinkled sayings from the local Malay language, such as "Selamat Datang" -- a greeting of welcome -- and the national motto "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika," which means "unity in diversity."

Noting that Malay is one of hundreds of languages of the archipelago nation, Obama lauded Indonesia for its spirit of inclusiveness despite its diverse population and history of dictatorship.

"But even as this land of my youth has changed in so many ways, those things that I learned to love about Indonesia -- that spirit of tolerance that is written into your constitution, symbolized in your mosques and churches and temples standing alongside each other; that spirit that is embodied in your people -- that still lives on," he said.

Grappling with a troubled U.S. economy, the Obama administration has highlighted the strengthening of economic and military ties during the president's 10-day Asia tour. Obama started his trip with a three-day stay in India, before heading to Indonesia.

Speaking in New Delhi on Monday, Obama said, "We make some of the best products in the world and we want to sell them to a growing Indian market."

At the Seoul summit, G-20 leaders are expected to focus on the global economic recovery and mechanisms to ensure balance and sustainable growth.

"We see the G-20 as fundamental not just to our international economic agenda, but to our ability to have a lasting recovery at home, because fostering balance, global growth is essential to fostering growth here in the American economy," Ben Rhodes, deputy national security adviser for strategic communications said ahead of Obama's Asia trip.

Collectively, the Group of 20 accounts for about 85 percent of global economic output. The 1997 Asian financial crisis prompted the creation of the group. The G-20 includes industrialized nations and developing economies, which focus on economic issues and economic policy coordination.

"If you look at the trend lines in the 21st century, the rise of Asia, the rise of individual countries within Asia, is one of the defining stories of our time," Rhodes said.

www.cnn.com

Barclays Premier League : Wigan Athletic 1-1 Liverpool FC

Liverpool's four-match winning run was halted by Wigan as Roy Hodgson's side faded badly after taking an early lead.

Despite being given an early advantage by Fernando Torres' third goal in four days, the visitors lost their grip on the game midway through the first half and never regained it.

Wigan equalised through Hugo Rodallega in the 52nd minute and finished the better side as the Merseysiders appeared to feel the exertions of beating Barclays Premier League leaders Chelsea on Sunday.

That will be a concern to manager Hodgson, who has complained about the depth of quality in his squad, with a trip to Stoke next up on Saturday.

The draw meant Liverpool missed the chance to move into the top five - a scenario which seemed a distant prospect just a few weeks ago with the Reds mired in the relegation zone until they put together three league wins to add to a victory in Europe.

It must also have annoyed Hodgson because, as they did against Chelsea, his side began strongly with Sunday's man of the match Lucas Leiva unleashing a 25-yard strike which Ali Al Habsi just managed to tip over.

The next time the visitors attacked the goalkeeper was given no chance by a clinical Torres.

An unusual statistic for this season is that all Liverpool's league goals, apart from their opening match against Arsenal, have either been scored or provided by Steven Gerrard and Torres.

The Reds' star duo demonstrated why their partnership is so successful in the seventh minute when Gerrard was given far too much time to carry the ball through midfield.

His perfectly-weighted 30-yard pass allowed Torres to outpace Gary Caldwell and fire across Al Habsi into the far corner of the goal.

It was the 26-year-old's first away goal since March 21 and, considering his prolific record, only the 17th in 41 matches outside Anfield.

The simplicity of that strike was contrasted by their next move, which saw Gerrard, Torres and Dirk Kuyt combine before the captain volleyed over from the Dutchman's header.

Torres was looking at his dangerous best and when Antolin Alcaraz stumbled he was clean through only for referee Peter Walton to pull play back for a non-existent foul.

Charles N'Zogbia looked Wigan's best outlet and he thought he had equalised in the 33rd minute when he seized on Lucas' weak pass and played a one-two with Rodallega to tap home but his team-mate had already been flagged offside.

A Ronnie Stam pass intended for Rodallega at the near post rolled agonisingly wide of the far upright as Wigan finished the half on the up.

Raul Meireles was replaced by Jonjo Shelvey for the start of the second half and the teenager's first contribution was to give the ball away to Rodallega but his forward pass to N'Zogbia was too strong.

The Colombian was not so wasteful moments later when Jose Reina could only palm Stam's low cross into his path and he gratefully fired home left-footed.

Wigan sensed their chance as Liverpool's play became increasingly ragged and Martinez sent on young forward Victor Moses for Jordi Gomez.

Kuyt's strike from Shelvey's deflected shot was half-saved by Al Habsi before it crossed the line but the Holland international had come back from an offside position and it was ruled out.

It was a brief rally as Stam again found room down the right to cross and Martin Kelly had to hack away at the far post under pressure from Tom Cleverley.

Gerrard's shot 10 minutes from time crashed down off the crossbar but not over the line with Al Habsi beaten as the game became end-to-end.

But it was Liverpool who were grateful for the final whistle as Mohamed Diame and N'Zogbia both forced low saves out of Reina.

The result may prove to only be a blip in Liverpool's recovery but Hodgson cannot allow his side to lose any momentum having built up so much confidence over the last three weeks.

Wigan may ultimately have been disappointed with a point, having won the corresponding fixture last season and finished so strongly, but it at least avoided a third successive league defeat.

 

 

www.espnstar.com

Barclays Premier League : Manchester City 0-0 Manchester United

A Manchester derby that promised so much delivered little as City and United ground out a goalless stalemate.

At least for Roberto Mancini's men there was no injury-time heartache after suffering three such defeats last term. For United, who controlled long periods, their unbeaten run in all competitions now stretches to 25 games.

In truth, the result only suited Chelsea, giving credence to Mancini's belief that these warring factions are actually scrapping for second spot at best.

United old-boy Carlos Tevez came closest to scoring with a first-half free-kick that was clawed out by Edwin van der Sar, the visitors left to lament those wasteful days at Fulham and Everton earlier in the season which mean they are now four points adrift of the leaders.

As the virus that has swept through the United camp had eased sufficiently, Ferguson must have been quite pleased with his selection.

Ryan Giggs' loss, though, was significant in the sense it robbed this edition of an old-fashioned blood and thunder Mancunian set-to of a constant presence since his debut, 33 games ago in 1991. As it turned out, this was a good one to miss.

It left United with plenty of experience though, which they used to its maximum during a disappointing opening period which they largely controlled without being able to carve out the opportunity they craved.

One decent chance did come their way, when one of a number of neat passing moves ended with Park Ji-sung feeding a ball into the City box for Patrice Evra to chase.

Had Evra been able to step round Kolo Toure and shoot with his left foot, the hosts would have been in trouble.

As it was, the Frenchman had to let fly with his right and Joe Hart made a comfortable save.

For their part, City were equally bereft, which was frustrating for supporters, who clearly expected more of Yaya Toure in particular given the frustration they expressed every time their big-money summer signing from Barcelona wasted possession, as he seemed to do quite frequently.

There was almost half-an-hour on the clock before they built up any momentum, with the industrious James Milner chief instigator.

It was United old-boy Carlos Tevez who came closest to breaking the deadlock though, after Paul Scholes had bundled Milner over on the edge of the area.

Tevez quickly made it clear the free-kick would be his responsibility and only its relative lack of pace allowed van der Sar to claw the ball out as it headed for the far corner.

Aside from a Nani free-kick that also lacked pace and a mis-timed Dimitar Berbatov volley, both of which bounced harmlessly through to Hart, one of five starters being watched by Fabio Capello ahead of England's friendly with France next week, that was it for the goalmouth action.

Indeed, the only other notable moment was the foul by Scholes on Milner just before the break which resulted in a fifth yellow card of the season, ruling him out of Saturday's trip to Aston Villa.

The pattern continued after the restart, with Berbatov getting his clearest sight of goal, albeit with his back to it as he hooked Wes Brown's cross goalwards without being able to test Hart.

Tevez threatened twice at the other end, the first time with a shot that Van der Sar gathered easily, the second a burst that ended with a dismal miscontrol and the ball bobbling out for a goal kick.

It was that type of match really, with Tevez too isolated and David Silva too far below his potential for City to become the sum of their expensively-assembled parts.

Adam Johnson seemed like an obvious man for Mancini to turn to and his introduction for Milner 20 minutes from time instantly brought the width his side had been so devoid of.

As Javier Hernandez was given his first taste of derby day shortly afterwards, a rousing finish to an otherwise forgettable encounter was promised.

Unfortunately, it did not quite work out that way.

Pablo Zabaleta almost profited from a mistake by John O'Shea, but did not. Hernandez almost got a clear sight of goal before Kolo Toure blocked his path.

It was that kind of night.

www.espnstar.com

Obama lauds Indonesia as a model of religious tolerance

Indonesia and the United States share principles of unity and tolerance and both can benefit from strengthened ties that will bolster trade and combat terrorism, President Obama said in a highly anticipated speech Wednesday.

The address at the University of Indonesia was considered a highlight of Obama's two-day stop in the southeast Asian nation where he spent four years of his childhood.

As the nation with the largest Muslim population in the world, Indonesia was chosen as the site for Obama to further address U.S. relations with the Islamic world following his speech on the topic last year in Cairo, Egypt.

He referred specifically to the Cairo speech of June 2009, noting he called there "for a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world -- one that creates a path for us to move beyond our differences."

"I said then, and I will repeat now, that no single speech can eradicate years of mistrust," Obama said. At the same time, he promised that "no matter what setbacks may come, the United States is committed to human progress.

America "is not, and never will be, at war with Islam," Obama insisted. "Instead, all of us must defeat al Qaeda and its affiliates, who have no claim to be leaders of any religion -- certainly not a great world religion like Islam."

Indonesia has been rocked by terror attacks such as bombings on Bali in 2002 and 2005, and Obama noted the nation's progress "in rooting out terrorists and combating violent extremism."

However, Muslims staged rallies across Indonesia on Sunday to protest the American president's visit, and about 20,000 people attended the demonstrations, a spokesman for a protest group said.

"We don't see the differences between Obama and (former U.S. President George W.) Bush. They both oppress Muslims. They both have blood on their hands," said Ismail Yusanto, a spokesman for the Muslim group Hizbut Tahrir. "That's why we reject Obama and we don't believe that he's reaching out to Muslims."

In his speech Wednesday, Obama reflected on his years in Indonesia, referring to how he and his family were warmly accepted. He got cheers when he sprinkled sayings from the local Malay language, such as "Selamat Datang" -- a greeting of welcome -- and the national motto "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika," which means "unity in diversity."

Noting that Malay is one of hundreds of languages of the archipelago nation, Obama lauded Indonesia for its spirit of inclusiveness despite its diverse population and history of dictatorship.

"But even as this land of my youth has changed in so many ways, those things that I learned to love about Indonesia -- that spirit of tolerance that is written into your constitution, symbolized in your mosques and churches and temples standing alongside each other; that spirit that is embodied in your people -- that still lives on," he said.

Now, Obama said, he returned as the U.S. president seeking "a deep and enduring partnership" with Indonesia, "because as vast and diverse countries; as neighbors on either side of the Pacific; and above all as democracies -- the United States and Indonesia are bound together by shared interests and shared values."

"America has a stake in an Indonesia that is growing, with prosperity that is broadly shared among the Indonesian people -- because a rising middle class here means new markets for our goods, just as America is a market for yours," Obama said.

The U.S. leader called for Indonesia's continued development and warned that would require "a refusal to tolerate the corruption that stands in the way of opportunity," along with a commitment to transparency and protecting the freedom being honored on the Heroes' Day holiday Wednesday marking Indonesian independence.

"Our nations show that hundreds of millions who hold different beliefs can be united in freedom under one flag," Obama said. "And we are now building on that shared humanity -- through the young people who will study in each other's schools; through the entrepreneurs forging ties that can lead to prosperity; and through our embrace of fundamental democratic values and human aspirations." 

www.cnn.com

Barack Obama's Indonesian connection

U.S. President Barack Obama is expected to finalize a comprehensive partnership with Indonesia during his two-day stop in the Southeast Asian nation where he spent part of his childhood.

However the Indonesia volcano that threatened President Obama's visit is now "likely" to shorten an already brief stop to the capital city of Jakarta.

Obama met with Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and held a news conference with him. He is also scheduled to attend an official dinner; and visit the Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in southeast Asia.

White House spokesman Robert Gibbs, who earlier told reporters that officials were closely monitoring the ash cloud from Mount Merapi, said forecasting shows air traffic might again be disrupted.

Gibbs said the president still hopes to deliver a speech at the University of Indonesia. "My sense is, our hope is that while we may have to truncate some of the morning we can get the speech in," Gibbs told reporters aboard Air Force One on a flight from New Delhi to Jakarta.

Obama lived in the Indonesian capital from 1968-1971, leaving aged 10. Click through CNN's photo gallery above to see what Indonesians are thinking of his upcoming visit and to learn about his time there.

www.cnn.com

Torres: My best form is coming

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres insists the Reds must maintain their momentum after beating Chelsea 2-0.

A 2-0 defeat of Chelsea at Anfield - Torres scoring both goals - was a third successive victory for Roy Hodgson's team.

But Spain international Torres knows there can be no letting up.

He said: "We weren't good enough at the start of the season. But we thought from the beginning we needed time to work with a new manager and new players.

"Now we have to show against the teams in the middle of the table, or teams who are not as good as Chelsea, we can play this way - with this intensity and quality."

Torres continued on Sky Sports: "We have to keep winning. We have won three games in seven days but we have to forget that now and keep getting points."

On a personal level he added: "It's been difficult for me with injuries but I am training every day and every day feeling better and improving.

"I don't know if I can play my best soon - but I will as soon as possible... I know the expectation I have but I can handle that."

Hodgson added: "It was a very good first half performance. I thought Chelsea played well in the second half but we stayed firm and thanks to Pepe (Jose) Reina and the crossbar we kept our clean sheet and had chances ourselves.

"I'm very happy with the result and the way the team responded to losing two of our back four (Glen Johnson and Sotirios Kyrgiakos) just before the game."

On his team's improved form, the former Fulham manager added: "I think the intensity's been there in a lot of games but people notice results.

"There's not been a great change in our play but possibly we are getting stronger and more confident...this is the result of working day after day, month after month."

On Torres' fitness Hodgson explained: "In the second half he was tired but still running, getting into

positions and causing problems for Chelsea's defenders.

"He is a vital player for us and would be any club. You can't have success if you don't have front players who do a good job for you.

"Hopefully at the end of the season he can say 'even though I didn't start so well I've had a good season' and can prove it with the goals he scored.

"He wants the club to do well and can see we're moving in the right direction. He couldn't say much when club was in the throes of being sold but like myself he sees a bright future with new owners."

On criticism levelled at him, Hodgson explained: "I have no fears about my ability or dents in confidence during my time here."

Hodgson added: "You have to put up with it and keep working with the team and let them answer for you. We're not a bad team and we're trying to get better through working."

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is not seeking a dramatic reaction from his team in Wednesday's home game against Fulham, despite a below-standard performance.

The Italian said: "Liverpool played very well and at 2-0 down it was difficult to come back in the game. Torres played very well today and scored two fantastic goals.

"To come here and lose can happen - Liverpool are a good team - but we have to be positive, we played a

fantastic game in the second half.

"We are still top of the table. It's impossible to win every game, sometimes you lose but the team showed the same mentality and strength. We don't have to react - we have to win the next game."

(www.espnstar.com)

Barclays Premier League : Liverpool 2-0 Chelsea

Fernando Torres produced a striker's masterclass to score twice as Liverpool were 2-0 winners over Chelsea.

The Spain international has a liking for playing the Londoners at Anfield, as his six goals in five matches against them at home shows.

Chelsea were heavily linked with a summer bid for Torres but it never materialised and manager Carlo Ancelotti said he did not need to buy the striker as he was satisfied with his own forwards.

However, Torres was more than happy to give a display of his quality to the Blues boss, whose side had conceded only three goals in 10 league games prior to kick-off.

It was always likely the result would come down to who took their chances and with Didier Drogba left on the bench until the second half, Torres was given a head start.

He did not need a second invitation and in addition to his two expertly-taken first-half goals he was a constant threat to the Chelsea defence

Torres has been short of form this season but he has always been able to produce a performance against Chelsea at Anfield over the years and this was no different.

It took just 11 minutes for him to reopen old wounds with a classic piece of finishing courtesy of a cross from Dirk Kuyt, making a welcome return after a month's absence with an ankle injury, on the left.

The Dutchman chipped a pass over the head of John Terry and Torres took one touch before firing past Petr Cech.

Having looked short of confidence this season the 26-year-old appeared to spring to life, immediately going on a short run and firing wide.

Possession was fairly even but Liverpool created the best chances, having a penalty shout dismissed when Terry's clearance bounced up on to Yuri Zhirkov's arm from which Raul Meireles shot at Cech.

Torres did not give the goalkeeper any such chance with his second just before half-time with a strike even better than his opener and reminiscent of his first ever goal for the club - also against Chelsea.

Meireles dispossessed Ashley Cole in the centre of the pitch and rolled the ball out to the Spaniard on the left of the penalty area.

Cutting inside he curled a shot around Branislav Ivanovic and inside Terry and the far post.

It was a fitting end to undoubtedly Liverpool's best first half of the season, which was as much down to excellent organisation at the back as Torres' potency up front.

With Jamie Carragher, restored to centre-back, barking the orders the hosts limited Chelsea to one shot on target - and that a weak Salomon Kalou header straight at Jose Reina.

Drogba's arrival for the start of the second half was inevitable but the Ivory Coast international's first shooting opportunity saw him curl a 30-yard free-kick well wide.

Ramires headed over and Zhirkov's shot was turned around the post by Reina, who also produced a brilliant close-range stop to deny Florent Malouda.

Having got themselves into a winning position it was now a question of holding on to it for Liverpool as Chelsea ramped up the pressure.

Torres may be paid to score goals but the sight of him hoofing the ball into the upper tier of the Centenary Stand was testament to the determination of everyone to hang on at all costs.

Kuyt almost wrapped things up 15 minutes from time only for Cech's outstretched leg to divert the ball wide.

Chelsea knew it was not to be their day when Nicolas Anelka's shot squeezed under Reina, whose slight touch deflected the ball up on to the bar and then Carragher cleared from the lurking Drogba two yards out.

The win moved Liverpool into ninth, the first time they have been in the top half since the opening weekend of the season, after three successive Barclays Premier League victories.

They are still not in a position to challenge Chelsea at the top of the table - where they still have a two-point lead over Manchester United - but they proved, on their day and with Torres on form, they remain a match for any side.

It seems a corner has now been turned in Roy Hodgson's reign, and with matches to come against Wigan, Stoke and West Ham there is a real chance for them to restore some of the damage done by their poor start to the season.

(www.espnstar.com)

Barclays Premier League : Liverpool vs Chelsea

Chelsea will still be without Frank Lampard for Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash with Liverpool at Anfield.

He will start training with the squad next week and coach Carlo Ancelotti also has doubts over Florent Malouda and Michael Essien (toe).

The Italian coach named nine of the starters for the game with decisions to be made over Malouda or Salomon Kalou in attack and Ramires or Essien in midfield.

(www.espnstar.com)

Kuyt could be ready for Chelsea clash

Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt is pushing to face Chelsea on Sunday after three weeks on the sidelines.

The 30-year-old has made a quicker than expected recovery from ankle ligament damage and will resume full training on Friday.
Kuyt was injured on international duty with Holland last month and it was initially feared he could be out for a lengthy period.
Kuyt, working as a TV pundit at the Reds' Europa League clash against Napoli tonight, told Five: "I have worked really hard with the medical team.
"I am quite happy with them because I have recovered quickly. I have trained really hard and am ready to start team training tomorrow."
When asked about this weekend's Barclays Premier League clash against Chelsea at Anfield, he added: "It depends on how the next couple of days go.
"Hopefully the team training will be okay and at the end of the day it will be up to the manager."
Liverpool have endured a difficult start to the season, collecting just six points from their opening eight league games under new manager Roy Hodgson.
That period was also overshadowed by an acrimonious takeover saga but, with that issue now resolved and the last two games won, Kuyt is optimistic.
He said: "It is always difficult when things change but in football these days, these things happen. You just have to cope with it.
"It is always easy, when things aren't going the way you want them to, to look for excuses but those things are behind us now.
"It is very positive we have the new owners and it is very positive we have won the last two (league) games."
Kuyt has also given his full backing to under-pressure boss Hodgson.
"We could all see last year how good a job the manager did at Fulham," said Kuyt, whose car was damaged by a police horse on arrival at Anfield tonight.
"We are working really hard to reach the same thing as he did at Fulham.
"I think it is going well, every week it is going better. I think the team is getting more used to each other.
"We also have a few new players, so the future is bright."


(www.espnstar.com)