Rooney named Footballer of the Year

Wayne Rooney has been voted the 2010 Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.

The Manchester United striker topped the poll of journalists with just over 81 per cent of a record votes cast, finishing ahead of Chelsea forward Didier Drogba and Manchester City's Carlos Tevez to win the prestigious accolade which has been running since 1948.

The 24-year-old - who has led the Reds Devils' challenge to Chelsea for the Barclays Premier League title, scoring some 34 goals in all competitions - will receive his award at the FWA's gala dinner at The Lancaster London Hotel on 13th May.

"I am delighted to win an award with so much history and tradition and to follow a long line of wonderful players who have been honoured by the Football Writers' Association since 1948 gives me real pride," said Rooney.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank my manager at United, Sir Alex Ferguson, the coaching staff and my team-mates, without whose help and support this award would not have been possible.

"Also a big thanks to my family and friends for their constant support which is always appreciated.

"I thank the Football Writers' Association members who voted for me and I look forward to personally collecting my award at the Footballer of the Year dinner."

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Reds tie up Shelvey deal

Liverpool have sealed the signing of Charlton Athletic youngster Jonjo Shelvey.

The Reds have bolstered their squad for next season after agreeing a fee with the League One club for an initial £1.7m.

England Under-17 international midfielder Shelvey passed a medical and agreed personal terms and will complete his move to Anfield on 10th May. The fee also contains a number of potential add-ons, relating to domestic and international appearances.

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PFA Awards 2009-2010

Wayne Rooney and James Milner have been honoured by the Professional Footballers' Association.

Manchester United striker Rooney has been named the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year while Aston Villa midfielder Milner won the Young Player of the Year award.

Rooney's selection ahead of fellow nominees Cesc Fabregas, Carlos Tevez and Didier Drogba means Manchester United have supplied the winner of the prestigious award for a fourth successive year. 

The 24-year-old has been in sensational form this season, scoring 34 goals for United and eight for England, and is key to the nation's World Cup hopes

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Chelsea 7-0 Stoke City

Salomon Kalou scored a hat-trick as rampant Chelsea returned to the top of the table with a win over Stoke City.

Chelsea put the pressure back on Manchester United with a 7-0 demolition of Stoke at Stamford Bridge.

A hat-trick from Ivorian striker Kalou, a brace from Frank Lampard, including a penalty, and late goals from substitute Daniel Sturridge and Florent Malouda maintained their dream of winning a League and FA Cup double this season.

Stoke were rocked by the loss of goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen who was stretchered off with a suspected fractured elbow as he attempted to prevent Kalou scoring Chelsea's second. He is now set to miss out on this summer's World Cup finals with Denmark.

(taken from premierleague.com)

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Everton 2-1 Fulham

Everton scored a last gasp winner against Fulham to keep their hopes of Europa League qualification alive.

With Thursday's second leg of Fulham's semi-final against Hamburg in mind, manager Roy Hodgson made nine changes for this match, coming within seconds of ending a run of 16 successive defeats at Goodison Park.

Although Erik Nevland gave Fulham a 36th-minute lead against the run of play, Victor Anichebe hauled Everton level five minutes after his arrival as a half-time sub before Arteta stroked home a face-saving winner deep into injury time.

(taken from premierleague.com)

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Aston Villa 1-0 Birmingham City

Aston Villa beat local rivals Birmingham City to keep alive their hopes of finishing fourth.

James Milner scored a late penalty to keep Villa in the hunt for a Champions League spot at Villa Park.

The England midfielder converted from the spot in the 83rd minute after Blues defender Roger Johnson had been adjudged to have brought down Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor.

Villa needed a string of fine saves from Brad Friedel to keep them in the match but are now level on points with fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur although they have played a fixture more and have an inferior goal difference.

(taken from premierleague.com)

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Liverpool 4-0 Burnley

Liverpool's season is firmly back on track after a Yossi Benayoun hat-trick left promoted Burnley overwhelmed.

They could not live with a vibrant Liverpool, who kept up an impressive high tempo throughout and are slowly wiping away the memory of those two early league defeats to Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa.

Benayoun scored his first from the edge of the box, and saw his shot parried by the overworked Brian Jensen for Dirk Kuyt to add the second before the break.

Steven Gerrard's pass set up Benayoun for his second, a close-range tap-in, before the Israeli was sent clear by substitute Andriy Voronin for his third and Liverpool's fourth.

(taken from premierleague.com)

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Arsenal 0-0 Manchester City

Arsenal and Manchester City played out a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium.

The draw saw the Gunners all but secure third place while City closed the gap with fourth place rivals Tottenham Hotspur, who lost to Manchester United earlier in the day.

Much of the pre-match hype had surrounded the return of former Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor, but he was left on the bench by City manager Roberto Mancini before being introduced at the start of the second half.

Arsenal had the better of possession, yet only tested Shay Given a couple of times before the City keeper went off with a suspected broken shoulder.

(taken from premierleague.com)

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West Ham United 3-2 Wigan Athletic

Three priceless points for the Upton Park outfit.

West Ham United earned a hard fought victory over Wigan Athletic at Upton Park to boost their bid for survival in the Premier League.

Jonathan Spector opened the scoring at the wrong end by scoring an own goal, but the hosts showed great spirit to come back from a goal down to take the lead through goals from Ilan and Radoslav Kovac. A goal in the second period from Hugo Rodallega restored parity in the game, but a wonder strike from Scott Parker saw the Upton Park faithful go home happy.

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Hull City 0-1 Sunderland

Hull City are on the verge of relegation after their defeat to Sunderland at the KC Stadium.

Hull's two-year stay in the Barclays Premier League is effectively over after they were beaten at home by Sunderland thanks to Darren Bent's seventh-minute goal.

The result, coupled with West Ham United's win over Wigan Athletic, means the Tigers are six points from safety with two matches left and with a vastly inferior goal difference.

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Wolves 1-1 Blackburn Rovers

Wolverhampton Wanderers are virtually safe from relegation after drawing with Blackburn Rovers.

Sylvan Ebanks-Blake came off the bench to rescue a point for Wolves and put them on the brink of Barclays Premier League survival at Molineux.

Ebanks-Blake had been on the pitch for barely a minute when he headed home an 80th minute centre from Stephen Ward.

It cancelled out a first-half opener from Rovers skipper Ryan Nelsen and was Wolves' first goal in 469 minutes.

(taken from premierleague.com)

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Bolton Wanderers 2-2 Portsmouth

Bolton Wanderers and Portsmouth played out a draw at the Reebok Stadium.

On-loan striker Aruna Dindane's brace gave Portsmouth an unlikely point. Dindane's goals came in the second half and marked a spirited response by a side already relegated.

Ivan Klasnic made the breakthrough for Bolton in the 26th minute and two minutes later Kevin Davies added a second but they faded badly.

(taken from premierleague.com)

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Manchester United 3-1 Tottenham

United maintain title race with a victory against Tottenham.

A fantastic lob by Nani and two penalties by Giggs revived Barclays Premier League title hopes for United.

A good heading from Ledley King, 20 minutes before final whistle, seems made title hopes for United sheered off.

But a nice pass from Macheda, done well by Nani and beat Gomes. Then a stupid foul from Wilson Palacios inside the box gave a penalty again. Giggs surely seal the 3 points by scoring from the white spot for United.

(Originally created by Roku)

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Hull City 0-2 Aston Villa

Aston Villa boosted their Champions League hopes and dealt Hull City's survival chances a blow with this win.

Gabriel Agbonlahor benefited from some poor Hull defending to put the visitors ahead in the 13th minute.

The crucial second goal arrived 15 minutes from time, James Milner picking himself up to convert from the penalty spot after he had been fouled by George Boateng.

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Chelsea Put Atletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero And Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery On Summer Shopping List

Blues keen on duo but unwilling to pay over the odds

Chelsea are closely monitoring Sergio Aguero and Franck Ribery as they plan their summer recruitment, Goal.com UK has learned. Sources close to the club say the pair head a list of prospective buys as the Blues prepare for a busy summer of transfer activity.

Aguero was quoted in the English media yesterday lavishing praise on the London club, calling them "great" and stressing his enthusiasm for the prospect of life in the English capital. His national team coach - and father-in-law - Diego Maradona has previously been expressed a desire to see 'Kun' follow in his footsteps by heading to Italy, with Jose Mourinho's Inter also interested; but the striker seems to feel his pace and technique will be better suited to the Premier League.

The Argentinian international is coming to the end of his fourth season in the Spanish capital and has long since become frustrated with the club's chaotic infrastructure. Though Quique Sanchez Flores' side are still in the hunt for silverware, with the Copa del Rey final to come and a Europa League semi-final with Liverpool on the horizon, they are languishing in 10th place in their domestic championship and for next season, a return to the Europa League is the best they can hope for. Atleti are heavily in debt and will need to sell at least one big name to fill the financial void left by the lack of Champions League football, so it is likely Chelsea will have room to negotiate a bargain, having privately let it be known that they are not keen to pay anywhere near Aguero's €60 million buy-out clause.

After moving to Spain in 2006, having just turned 18, Aguero endured a tough first season in La Liga before hitting 19 league goals in his sophomore year to propel Atleti into the Champions League - a notable achievement, and one that even club legend Fernando Torres was unable to manage.

Now 21, Kun's arrival at Stamford Bridge would provide a major fillip to a frontline reliant on the fine form of Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka, who are 32 and 31, respectively.

Meanwhile Ribery's future is even more up for discussion, with the winger approaching the final year of his contract in Munich. President Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has not ruled out the possibility of keeping the Frenchman, but with Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona, as well as Chelsea, closely monitoring the situation, it looks like they will have their work cut out to keep him.

The 27-year-old has started only seven Bundesliga games in the current campaign, having been stymied by a series of niggling injuries, but is returning to peak form as Bayern chase a Bundesliga, German Cup and Champions League treble. The player himself has suggested a decision on his future is imminent, though his connection with the current prostitution scandal involving the French national team makes an announcement in the next few weeks unlikely.

Ribery's signing would add creativity and dynamism to a Chelsea midfield in which Joe Cole is still uncertain of his future, with his current deal set to expire in the summer. 

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Liverpool 3-0 West Ham United

West Ham United's hopes of avoiding the drop were dealt a blow after defeat at Liverpool.

Liverpool kept their faint Champions League qualification hopes alive and left the Hammers with three matches to secure their top-flight survival.

Former West Ham midfielder Yossi Benayoun and David Ngog gave the hosts a 2-0 lead in a low-key first half and goalkeeper Robert Green's unfortunate own goal finished off his side.

However, both teams still have a great deal to do to achieve their aims as Liverpool are still five points adrift of fourth place while West Ham are only three above the drop zone.

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Wigan Athletic Chairman Dave Whelan Admits Stars Hugo Rodallega & Charles N'Zogbia Could Join Arsenal Or Liverpool

Latics' chief concedes key duo can leave for a 'big club'

Wigan Athletic will not stand in the way of star duo Hugo Rodallega and Charles N'zogbia, should Liverpool or Arsenal come calling, according to Latics’ chairman Dave Whelan. Both Rodallega and N’Zogbia have been linked with moves to bigger clubs at the end of this season, and Whelan insists that Wigan’s policy has always been to help players further their careers.
“Wigan is a small club, we accept that,” he told Goal.com UK, “We have to look around and buy players and coach them, and I always tell my players that if a big club comes calling, I will never stand in their way.

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Premier League Team Of The Decade 2000-2010

This has been the decade in which the Premier League's brand building has come good. The early years bore little fruit on the world stage, but now, the money is rolling in and the football is a force to be reckoned with.

English clubs currently set the marker in European competition, both tactically and technically, with many other clubs having to follow their blueprint to keep pace.

This is, in no small part, due to the squad depth afforded by the top clubs in England, not to mention their consistent acquisition of top coaches and, perhaps post-Mourinho Chelsea notwithstanding, sticking by their man.

On top of that, it might also be worth mentioning the absolutely outstanding players to take into account, as well. Only two managed to win the Ballon d'Or - one of whom doesn't even make the XI - but this has been a league saturated with stars; a trend that, regardless of Real Madrid's Nuevo Galacticos, only looks like continuing in the decade to come.

Formation: 3-5-2

Shay Given (Newcastle United & Manchester City)

The only player to make the grade that has never played for one of the 'big four', but he has played in the Champions League. Yes, it was closer to the beginning of the decade, back when Newcastle weren't ... well, in the Championship ... but Shay Given has been nothing short of outstanding all decade.

Some have even gone as far as to declare him the best goalkeeper in the world, which is perhaps an accolade too far, but his consistent heroics, outstanding shot-stopping and leadership have been enough to see him past the likes of Petr Cech (due in part to his unfortunate injury).

His loyalty to Newcastle proved finite right towards the end of the decade, when they approached their ultimate low and Manchester City, with their party-crashing ambitions and promises of greatness, proved too great a lure to resist. His performances haven't let up - already proving a hero in vain in the failed UEFA Cup campaign - but his aim now will simply be to get back into the Champions League before hanging up his gloves.

Rio Ferdinand (West Ham United, Leeds United & Manchester United)

One of several outstandingly talented English talents from the West Ham youth system, Rio made the switch to a high-flying Leeds side at the beginning of the decade for a mammoth £18m, a British transfer record, when he was still just 21. And a defender.

The last thing Leeds would have been expecting was to make almost a 40 per cent profit after just two seasons. He got even better, and fast, before Manchester United broke the British transfer record for a second time, and also saw Rio overtake the legendary Lilian Thuram to become the most expensive defender in the world for a second time.

And now, after seven seasons at Old Trafford, he has done it all. Following the decline of legendary Italian duo, Fabio Cannavaro and Alessandro Nesta, Rio became considered by many to be the best centre-back in the world on his way to leading the Red Devils and then lifting the Champions League in 2008, completing his journey to the pinnacle of club football off the back of skilful, effortless, yet athletic and domineering defending.



Sol Campbell (Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal & Portsmouth)

Something of a forgotten man since joining Portsmouth in 2006, it cannot be forgotten what an incredible defender Sol Campbell was in his prime. Having already made his name as one of the best defenders in the country in the previous decade with Spurs, he was being courted by Barcelona, no less, before controversially opting instead to join Arsenal, reigniting the bitter local rivalry that needed no reignition.

Let that not detract from his simply incredible performances for the Gunners during his five seasons with the club. He was part of the Invincibles side, winning two Premier Leagues and three FA Cups, and of course scoring in a Champions League final, his final ever game for the club, that was to end in defeat.

Even when labelled past it when joining Portsmouth at the age of 30, he has upheld a marked level of consistency, even if he was eventually ousted from the national team by John Terry. Sol has rarely looked short of class, and testimony to his influence is that Arsenal have yet to truly replace his calming and confident presence at the back.



John Terry (Chelsea)

For fun, I was half-way tempted to add Manchester City, with a little question mark, to the club in brackets above, but we all know that just wouldn't be right. John Terry is the first of three one-club men to make it into this list, and it would take a brave man, despite the speculation and despite his silence, to bet against him finishing his career as one.

He rose through the ranks at Chelsea as an archetypal die-hard English defender and carved himself a real niche as one of the best of his kind out there. Elegance and grace he might not have in abundance, but his bottomless reserve of determination and energy have always led him to success.

Now 28, Terry is captain of his club and country, with the only major blight in his career being a slip on the soaking wet Moscow turf that sent an otherwise perfect penalty - that had wrong-footed Edwin van der Sar - six inches too wide, off the post and out. It would have won the Champions League, completing Terry's club trophy haul. He remains determined to bounce back, and continues to be one of the most consistent, match-saving defenders in the league.



Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)

The first player in the XI to have gone abroad - there are three more - but none managed it with quite such a level of accompanying awe-inspiring media coverage. Cristiano Ronaldo arrived in the Premier League just 18 years of age still skilful but erratic, and left probably the most complete attacking player in the world, for an all-time record-smashing £80m, to his boyhood club, Real Madrid.

The way in which United, kings of English football, were made to feel small by the Portuguese did his local reputation few favours, and nor did his perceived persona as an arrogant superstar, but his performances eventually won over everyone in the league, the country and grudgingly, the world.

Having narrowly missed out on the Ballon d'Or to Kaka in 2007, he ran away with it in 2008, following that 42-goal season - all this after the World Cup winking allegations had threatened to cut short his United career. His desire to be the best and incredible work ethic allowed him to get there. He won it all, was absolutely instrumental the whole way, and left on top - just as he will have wanted.



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Bayern Munich Set to Capture Berbatov

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov could be offered a way out of his Old Trafford misery as Bayern Munich look set to launch a bid for the frustrated Bulgarian.

According to the News of the World, Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to off-load the under-fire frontman this summer. Following his £30.75 million move to United, Berbatov has failed to meet the high standards he set at Tottenham Hotspur.

Having spent five years in Germany at Bayer Leverkusen, it is speculated that Berbatov will favour a return to the Bundesliga, and he is expected to fall further down the pecking order at United with the arrival of summer signing Javier Hernandez.

Berbatov appeared as a substitute in Manchester United’s win over city rivals Manchester City, and has found the net on 12 occasions this season.
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Torres Out of The Season

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has been ruled out for the remainder of the season.

The Spain striker underwent surgery on his troublesome knee injury on Sunday night.

The procedure rules the 26-year-old out of action for around six weeks, meaning he will miss not only the Barclays Premier League run-in but also the remainder of the club's Europa League campaign, which continues this week with a semi-final against Torres' former club Atletico Madrid.

The news will also cast a shadow over Spain's preparations for the World Cup, with Torres a key element of the European champions' set-up for the tournament which gets under way in just over seven weeks.

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Portsmouth 1-2 Aston Villa

Aston Villa left it late to seal their victory away to relegated Portsmouth in the Barclays Premier League.

Villa substitute Nathan Delfouneso scored with his first touch to keep Martin O'Neill's European hopes alive with a well-deserved win at Fratton Park.

David James saved John Carew's penalty before the break after the Norwegian had restored parity following Michael Brown's early opener.

The match looked to be heading towards stalemate but Delfouneso tapped home Emile Heskey's flick on to move Villa above Liverpool into sixth place in the Barclays Premier League.

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Wigan Athletic 3-2 Arsenal

Three goals in the final 11 minutes gave Wigan Athletic a stunning victory against Arsenal.

The Gunners appeared to be coasting to victory on the back of goals either side of half time from Theo Walcott and Mikael Silvestre, and with it hauling themselves to within three points of leaders Chelsea.

But after a run of eight defeats and a draw in the Barclays Premier League against Arsenal, Wigan added to their debut wins over Chelsea and Liverpool this season as Ben Watson, Titus Bramble and Charles N'Zogbia conjured an astonishing comeback.

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Liverpool Eye Feyenoord Wonderkid Wijnaldum

Despite their off-field problems, Liverpool are reportedly hot on the heels of 19-year-old starlet Georginio Wijnaldum of Feyenoord.

According to the Daily Mail, the club are being forced to alter their transfer strategy this summer in the face of mounting financial problems.

Coupled with recent news that the club is up for sale having drafted in new chairman Martin Broughton, the Reds are believed to be looking towards younger stars with smaller price tags.

Traditionally the Anfield side have targeted established players for big money, but that is all set to change this summer.

The financial worries at the club show no sign of abating and it is reported that Broughton has given the green light to a new sponsorship deal with Standard Chartered, which contains a pre-requisite that the club qualify for the Champions League in order for the full £80 million-a-year to be paid.

With such off-field financial troubles, acquiring Wijnaldum would be good business for Rafael Benitez.

The talented Rotterdam born midfielder has scored four times this season in 31 Eredivisie outings.

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Juventus Ready To Take Advantage Of Liverpool Cash Crisis With Dirk Kuyt Raid - Report

According to the News of the World, manager Rafael Benitez is widely tipped to move to Turin this summer and Juve are speculated to have made enquiries as to the availability of Kuyt leaving Anfield as well.

The Reds have been reported to have recorded debts of up to £237 million, an astronomical sum which could force the club's hierarchy to look into the possibility of off-loading some of its star performers.

Since joining from Feyenoord for a £10m fee in 2006, Kuyt has impressed on Merseyside scoring 15 times last season. He's maintained that form this term as well, with 13 goals to his credit.

In addition to his fire-power, Kuyt has been applauded for his work-rate and tenacious attitude, meaning Liverpool will want to recoup as much of their outlay as possible from any possible summer transfer.

According to the News of the World, manager Rafael Benitez is widely tipped to move to Turin this summer and Juve are speculated to have made enquiries as to the availability of Kuyt leaving Anfield as well.

The Reds have been reported to have recorded debts of up to £237 million, an astronomical sum which could force the club's hierarchy to look into the possibility of off-loading some of its star performers.

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Lyon Eye £8m Swoop For Out-Of-Favour Arsenal Striker Eduardo

Arsenal hit-man Eduardo is believed to be on the transfer radar of French club Lyon, according to the News of the World.

The Croatian has failed to impress this season at the Emirates, with many believing the former Dinamo Zagreb forward has never fully recovered from his horrific leg-break suffered against Birmingham City during 2008-09.

Eduardo has scored just seven goals in over 40 starts for Arsene Wenger’s Premier League chasing side this season, last finding the back of the net against West Ham United in January.

With the imminent arrival of Marouane Chamakh from Bordeaux, he looks set to drop further down the pecking order behind Robin van Persie and Nicklas Bendtner.

Despite signing a new long-term contract last November, the Gunners are believed to be willing to accept any forthcoming offer within the £8 million region.

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Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Chelsea

Chelsea's lead at the top of the table is now just one point after Tottenham Hotspur ran out winners.

Jermain Defoe and Gareth Bale blew the Barclays Premier League title race wide open with goals against Chelsea and also put Tottenham back in the Champions League places.

Defoe tucked away from the penalty spot for his 24th of the season after John Terry handled in the area, then Bale followed up his midweek goal against Arsenal with another before the break at White Hart Lane.

Terry's miserable evening was capped off with a sending-off for two bookings. Frank Lampard pulled one back, but it was too late for Chelsea.

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Fulham 0-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers

Fulham and Wolverhampton Wanderers played out a goalless draw at Craven Cottage.

Wolves edged one more point closer to safety with a determined performance to earn a draw with the Cottagers.

Bobby Zamora rattled the woodwork in the second-half but Roy Hodgson's side know they will have to put in a much improved performance if they are to beat Hamburg in the Europa League semi-final on Thursday.

Kevin Doyle posed the greatest threat for Wolves, who had Christophe Berra and veteran Jody Craddock to thank for keeping Zamora, and a quiet Zoltan Gera, in check. 

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Blackburn Rovers 2-3 Everton

Everton kept alive their hopes of a Europa League place with a gritty away win at Blackburn Rovers.

It was only Blackburn's third home defeat of the season and they put up a strong fight, twice battling their way back level.

Mikel Arteta gave the visitors the lead with a penalty after just four minutes but Steven Nzoni equalised on 69 minutes.

Ayegeni Yakubu restored the advantage 10 minutes later only for Jason Roberts to level almost immediately. But Tim Cahill fired the winner in the final minute.

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Cristiano Ronaldo: United Don't Miss Me

Cristiano Ronaldo does not believe Manchester United are missing him despite his contribution at Old Trafford before his move to Real Madrid.

The 25-year-old moved to the Bernabeu last summer after six seasons with the Red Devils, where he became pivotal both domestically and in the Champions League.

His goalscoring and attacking contribution meant the Portuguese's absence was always going to be apparent, although Wayne Rooney has stepped up in front of goal this season.

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Stoke City 1-2 Bolton Wanderers

Bolton Wanderers struck twice late on to secure an important win over Stoke City.

David Kitson put Stoke ahead, but two goals from Matthew Taylor completed an amazing turnaround.

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Sunderland 2-1 Burnley

Burnley plunged deeper into relegation trouble as Sunderland edged themselves closer to safety.

Darren Bent claimed his 24th goal of the season four minutes before the break to ensure the visitors did not collect a second successive away win.

Fraizer Campbell had put the Black Cats ahead with 25 minutes gone as the home side dominated until substitute Steve Thompson's strike eight minutes from time sparked a late flurry.

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Birmingham City 0-0 Hull City

Hull City secured a vital point in their survival struggle as they battled to a goalles draw at St Andrew's.

The point was enough to lift the Tigers above Burnley in the Barclays Premier League as the hosts failed to win for a seventh successive match.

Lee Bowyer twice came close to giving Birmingham the lead. The midfielder headed over with the goal at his mercy and then saw the Tigers' recalled keeper Matt Duke parry his fierce drive.

But home keeper Joe Hart produced a fine save to deny Jan Vennegoor de Hesselink.
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Manchester City 0-1 Manchester United

Manchester United snatched a last-gasp victory against local rivals Manchester City at Eastlands.

Veteran midfielder Paul Scholes, who had just signed a one-year contract extension at Old Trafford, headed a dramatic winner three minutes into stoppage-time.

He cleverly steered in a cross by Patrice Evra to keep alive United's Barclays Premier League title hopes.

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Ferguson: Rooney could face City

Sir Alex Ferguson says Manchester United's Wayne Rooney could return to action against Manchester City.

The star striker has been struggling with an ankle problem he aggravated in the second leg of the Champions League tie to Bayern Munich but has trained this week.

If the 24-year-old suffers no reaction he will be in the squad for the hotly contested derby in the Barclays Premier League, Ferguson confirmed.
"He has done some work over the last couple of days and we will see how he is for Saturday's game," said Ferguson, who also revealed Ryan Giggs and Rio Ferdinand have an outside chance of being involved at Eastlands.

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Cesc Fabregas, Wayne Rooney, Didier Drogba & Carlos Tevez Nominated For PFA Player Of The Year Award

Roo in line for two awards along with Cesc...

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney looks to be the favourite to pick up the PFA Player of the Year award after the nominees were announced today.

Rooney is accompanied in the nominations by Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas and Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, whilst his former United team-mate Carlos Tevez's superb season at Manchester City has also earned him a nomination.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor felt that Rooney had enjoyed a "phenomenal" season.

“Wayne has been absolutely phenomenal once again and, in his new role this season, has created even more havoc for opposition defences," Taylor told the PFA's official website.

"When Cristiano Ronaldo was at United, he [Rooney] played more of a supporting role, but as the number one striker and goalscorer he is now one of the best in the world, not just in this country.

"He has always been prepared to work at all aspects of his game, and this season in particular, the improvement in his heading ability has been there for all to see. He’s like a modern-day Dixie Dean."

As for Tevez, Taylor felt that the Argentine's strong work ethic had helped him win over the City fans after his summer switch from Old Trafford.

“He is such an energy-packed player and you cannot fail to be impressed by the amount of work he puts in, week in, week out," Taylor added.

"He is the sort of player that is going to be popular with fans of whatever club he plays for.

"He was as popular with Manchester United supporters as he is with City followers who love him, not just for his incredible work-rate but for his goals which look like firing the club into the Champions League next season."

Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas, along with Rooney, has also been nominated for the Young Player of the Year award.

Taylor believes that Arsene Wenger must work as hard as possible to retain his skipper's services despite the rumours of interest in the player from Barcelona.

“When you watch him play, you simply sit back and marvel at the skills of the perfect engine-room player," said the PFA chief.

"He is such a crucial player to both Arsenal and Spain, and the difference he makes to those teams is immeasurable.

"A magnificent player who has brought so much to Arsenal, and the Premier League as a whole, it is so important that Arsene Wenger keeps him at the club because he would be a sad loss to the English game.”

Joining the Catalan on the list of nominees for the young player award are Aston Villa's James Milner and Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart, who has impressed during his season-long loan spell at Birmingham City.

Taylor believes that Hart's season shows that the youngster has a big future ahead of him.

“Joe’s loan move to Birmingham has certainly proved to be a good one for both parties," he said.

"He has benefited from the loan system, and the chance to play regular first team football, and I am so pleased he was given the opportunity by Alex McLeish.

"He has certainly not let the Birmingham boss down. It is nice that Joe has been recognised by his fellow professionals after an excellent season during which his consistency has been exceptional."

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Evra backing for Rafael

Patrice Evra is tipping Manchester United team-mate Rafael da Silva to become one of the club's greatest defenders.

Evra believes Rafael will emerge stronger for his recent red card against Bayern Munich which sparked a shock Champions League exit.

Most pundits have pointed to the youngster's dismissal early in the second half as the pivotal moment in the quarter-final United appeared to have under control.

As the Red Devils subsequently failed to overcome Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park to slip four points adrift of Barclays Premier League leaders Chelsea, it appears as though it may be a seminal moment in United's entire campaign.

Yet Evra is confident the Old Trafford outfit will gain a major benefit in the long run, as he is convinced Rafael is destined for great things.

"It is a good experience for Rafael and he will definitely be a better player because of what happened," said Evra.

"I know Rafael's mentality. When he gets some experience he will be different class. I am sure about him. He has a lot of hunger.

"This was just part of the development process. He will go on to become one of the best right-backs Manchester United have ever had."

Evra was older and more experienced when he arrived at United in a £5m deal from Monaco in January 2005.

Yet even he struggled at first, which is why he feels confident about Rafael.

"When I came here I was 24. I was already playing with the French national team and had reached the final of the Champions League with Monaco," said Evra.

"But the first six months were difficult. It was a big slap in my face. But I had enough experience and character to do much better and show why Manchester United bought me from Monaco."

And he is convinced Rafael da Silva will learn from his dismissal adding: "Rafa did something that maybe, with more experience, he would not do. 

"But I am not certain. Someone might make the same mistake at 32. The point is, you need to make mistakes to become a big player.

"You learn. You have to be mentally strong because anyone can do something stupid."

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Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Arsenal

Tottenham Hotspur gave their Champions League qualification hopes a boost with a win over rivals Arsenal.

Danny Rose fired a spectacular volley to help deliver a seemingly fatal blow to Arsenal's Barclays Premier League title aspirations at White Hart Lane.

Tottenham's 19-year-old midfielder, making his first league start, smashed home Manuel Almunia's looping fisted clearance on the full from 30 yards out.

Spurs doubled their lead through Gareth Bale a minute after the interval before Nicklas Bendtner set-up a nervy finish by weighing in with a late goal.

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Aston Villa 2-2 Everton

A last-gasp equaliser salvaged a point for Aston Villa as they drew at home to Everton.

Villa's faint hopes of achieving Champions League football suffered another setback despite Everton defender Phil Jagielka's injury-time own goal rescuing them a point.

Manager Martin O'Neill had challenged his side to win their remaining six matches to give them a realistic hope of overhauling Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur in the race for fourth place in the Barclays Premier League.

But they had to settle for a point after cancelling out Tim Cahill's double with Gabriel Agbonlahor's 50th goal for the club and Jagielka's late helping hand.

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Sir Alex Ferguson: Darron Gibson's Goals Make Him 'The New Paul Scholes' At Manchester United

 Irish international can be '12-14' goals a season man...

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Darron Gibson can develop into the kind of goalscoring midfielder which Paul Scholes has been at Old Trafford over recent years.

Ferguson believes that the Red Devils have lacked a natural goalscorer in midfield when Scholes has not been fit, and he is optimistic that Gibson, who netted his sixth goal of the season last week against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, can develop into that kind of player.

"You saw Gibson's performance against Bayern Munich," the Scot told reporters.

"That was his sixth goal of the season [in all competitions] and you cannot dismiss that.

"It is the kind of contribution we used to get from Paul Scholes. He used to get me 12 to 14 goals from midfield all the time and we haven't had a player like that in a while."

Ferguson also feels that Gibson may well have helped United's campaign significantly if he had played more regularly throughout the season.

"Who is to say if Gibson had been playing all the time where he would be in terms of goals?" Ferguson mused.

"But he is getting recognition now and even the players are commenting on how much he has improved."

Meanwhile, another United midfielder, Owen Hargreaves, may not return from injury until next season, with Ferguson doing little to reassure Red Devils fans that they will see the Canadian-born England international in action again this term.

"It is difficult to say when Owen will be back; he is training well and I had him in the squad for the Chelsea game," said the United manager.

"His training performances have been fine but I think at the moment midfield is not an issue for us because we have plenty of alternatives."

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Chelsea 1-0 Bolton Wanderers

Chelsea moved four points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League with victory over Bolton Wanderers.

A first-half goal from Nicolas Anelka gave Chelsea a hard-fought victory at Stamford Bridge.

Anelka scored his first goal in 14 matches when he headed home a cross from Didier Drogba in the 43rd minute.

But anxious Chelsea were made to hang on for a vital win with Bolton substitute Johan Elmander sending a late header inches wide of the target.

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Manchester City 5-1 Birmingham City

Manchester City cemented their claim for a top four finish with a comfortable win over Birmingham City at Eastlands.

Carlos Tevez and Emmanuel Adebayor both scored twice with Nedum Onuoha also finding the target from the penalty spot in an emphatic victory.

City have now scored 14 goals in their last three matches and Birmingham's only response came from Cameron Jerome.

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Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-0 Stoke City

Wolverhampton Wanderers edged another step closer to safety with a goalless draw at home to Stoke City.

It was a tight affair with few clear chances, the best falling to Stoke striker Mamady Sidibe on 54 minutes. A cross from Danny Higginbotham found Sidibe unmarked just to the right of the Wolves goal but he sliced his shot over the bar.

The result put Mick McCarthy's men six points clear of the drop zone with four matches remaining - and it mathematically guaranteed the Potters' place in the Barclays Premier League.

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Liverpool 0-0 Fulham

Fulham frustrated fourth place hopefuls Liverpool with both sides earning a point after a draw at Anfield.

Liverpool badly missed Fernando Torres as they dropped two more points in their increasingly forlorn pursuit of fourth place in the Barclays Premier League.

The Reds had numerous opportunities to beat fellow Europa League semi-finalists Fulham but, without the cutting edge of the injured Torres, drew a blank at Anfield.

They also came up against a goalkeeper in good form in Mark Schwarzer, who produced a number of saves, including a fine stop from a powerful Ryan Babel drive.

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Blackburn Rovers 0-0 Manchester United

Manchester United failed to go top of the Barclays Premier League as they were held at Blackburn Rovers.

The champions were looking to leapfrog leaders Chelsea who now have a one-point advantage and a match in hand.

Without striker Wayne Rooney, United struggled in front of goal against a stubborn Rovers side who are now mathematically safe.

Sam Allardyce's men almost won it at the death when Steven Nzonzi had a goalbound shot bravely blocked by Gary Neville who then almost snatched victory with a shot which flew narrowly wide.

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Rafael Benitez: Liverpool Need To Buy 'Three Or Four' New Players This Summer

Rafael Benitez has declared that Liverpool will need to buy three of four more players during the summer transfer window, an undertaking that could require in excess of £60million.

After finishing second in the Premier League last season, the Reds have had a tough season, currently sitting in sixth place four points behind Manchester City for the last remaining Champions League spot.
With Albert Riera, Ryan Babel and Yossi Benayoun set to leave Liverpool in the summer, Benitez says that in order for his team to improve they might have to sell in order to get the players they need to become a Premier League title contender.
 “If you analyse what Fernando and Jamie Carragher have been saying, they were talking about four or five new players for next season,” Benitez told the Daily Star.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s four or five, or three and five. The cost of a top-class player is about £20million. So with three or four players you start counting.
“Do I need three or four more? Yes, I think so.
“Will I have to sell to raise money? I will say again that it depends.
“We want to keep the spine of the team and do the same as we have done in the past. Sometimes you have to manage and you have to sell two or three players who aren’t playing many games.”

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Hull City 1-4 Burnley

Burnley came from behind to stun Hull City in the relegation six-pointer at the KC Stadium.

Graham Alexander netted a penalty double as Burnley came from behind to claim their first away win of the season and boost their hopes of Barclays Premier League survival.

On the day Portsmouth were relegated following West Ham's win over Sunderland, Burnley looked like following them out of the top flight when Kevin Kilbane headed Hull into a third-minute lead.

But ex-Scunthorpe United forward Martin Paterson equalised after 35 minutes, Alexander tucked in penalties after 64 and 70 minutes and Wade Elliott curled in a stoppage-time fourth as the Clarets claimed just a second win in 14 Barclays Premier League matches under manager Brian Laws.

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West Ham United 1-0 Sunderland

West Ham United earned a vital three points against Sunderland at Upton Park.

Brazilian striker Ilan is fast emerging as West Ham's unlikely saviour after he earned the relegation-threatened Hammers a vital Barclays Premier League lifeline.

The 29-year-old followed up his equaliser against Everton last weekend with the only goal against Sunderland as West Ham edged four points clear of the relegation zone.

Ilan latched onto Carlton Cole's downward header to put West Ham ahead after 51 minutes on the day that Portsmouth were officially relegated from the Barclays Premier League.
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United Swoop Hernandez

Manchester United have signed promising young Mexico striker Javier Hernandez.

The Red Devils revealed they have agreed terms with Chivas for the 21-year-old, and subject to a work permit, the deal will be completed on 1st July.

'Chicharito' is United's second signing for next season after Fulham defender Chris Smalling and he will become the first Mexican player to join the Old Trafford club.

As part of the deal, United will play a match to open the new 45,000 capacity Chivas Stadium in Guadalajara as part of its 2010/11 season preparations.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson said: "I am delighted to reach agreement with Chivas to bring such an exciting young striker, who has been in such prolific form for both his club and his country.

"He will be a great addition to our squad and we look forward to welcoming our first Mexican player in the summer. We are equally excited to play our first game in Mexico, opening the magnificent new Chivas Stadium in July."

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Pepe Reina Determined To Win Europa League With Liverpool

Silverware is Spaniard's aim... 

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina is determined to win trophies with the Reds despite the disappointing nature of their campaign so far.

Rafael Benitez's men saw their hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League fade somewhat with a draw at Birmingham City at the weekend, leaving the Europa League as their only real chance for any meaningful success this season.

Liverpool welcome Benfica to Anfield on Thursday night for the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie trailing 2-1, but Reina insists that the Reds will be fully motivated as they look to end the season on something of a high.

"This is the only trophy we can lift this season,” said Reina, according to The Liverpool Echo.

"It is massively important. All the players here want to lift silverware and this is our last chance to do that.

"To win a trophy is always good. We, the players, are the first ones who know that the season hasn’t been great. It hasn’t been good enough. We should have done better.

"But as long as we have that opportunity to lift a trophy, it is always important for a club and it is for the players. Now it is up to us to lift it up and we have to be persistent.

"No matter what an individual does, it is all about the team. If you play well as an individual, it doesn’t make a difference if the team has not performed.

"It was always going to be difficult to repeat the 86 points, as that was a massive achievement and the league was always going to be tougher. But we have had one bad season.

"English football is not easy. We were so close last season, that’s why we have been so disappointed with how things have gone this season."

The Spain international does not expect Thursday's game to be easy against a Benfica side who carry such an obvious attacking threat.

He does think that Liverpool's experience and home advantage could give Benitez's team a crucial edge, however.

"I hope we will be able to keep another clean sheet and turn the result around," he added.

"I hope that I will have nothing to do but I don’t think that will be the case.

"We know it is going to be tough but there have been many times in the past when it has been tough and we have been able to manage.

"With Anfield behind us and the supporters ready from the beginning, showing desire, passion and commitment, the effort will be 100 per cent tonight. There is absolutely no doubt about that." 

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Wenger: We must add players

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger accepts he will have to make signings in the summer transfer window.

The Frenchman watched his side go down to a 4-1 Champions League quarter final second-leg defeat to Barcelona at the Nou Camp on Tuesday as Lionel Messi scored four to complete a 6-3 aggregate victory for the Catalans.

Wenger made just one signing last summer - the £10m Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax - but knows he must bring in more bodies ahead of the 2010/11 season.

"We have to add something, for sure, but we have some time to think about that," said Wenger.

"We are at a stage where we're developing players.

"[Theo] Walcott is 22; [Nicklas] Bendtner is 22; [Samir] Nasri, [Abou] Diaby and Denilson are 22 or 23. They've shown some great qualities and they'll get stronger every year.

"We were very young and what we did was very positive. We had six or seven players under 23 in the team and we had plenty of opportunities. We showed we lacked maturity in the weight of the final ball."

focus completely

Wenger, whose side are just three points behind Barclays Premier League leaders Chelsea, has now turned his attentions to next Wednesday's key match against Tottenham Hotspur.

"The priority now is to recover from the game," he said.

"We have played quite well, with a lot of character as ever, but we made a few too many mistakes.

"The match forces you straight away to focus because you know it's going to be a derby.

"Yes, of course, you worry about the team's needing lifting. We have to recover quickly because we cannot drop any more points to have a chance to fight for the Premier League. That's why we have to recover and focus completely on the Premier League now."

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Everton 2-2 West Ham United

West Ham United twice battled from behind to snatch a vital point at Everton.

Diniyar Bilyaletdinov put Everton in front after 24 minutes. Jonathan Spector attempted to head away a Leighton Baines cross but found only Tim Cahill, who nodded back for Bilyaletdinov to glance in from close range.

Mido had a penalty saved by Tim Howard after 37 minute when Sylvain Distin clipped the back of Carlton Cole's legs.

The Hammers levelled on the hour as a Mark Noble corner fell between a group of players in the Everton area. Manuel da Costa was the quickest player to react in the ensuing scramble and forced the ball home for an equaliser.

The home side looked to have won it five minutes from time when Ayegbeni Yakubu nodded in to restore the advantage but two minutes later Ilan powered home a diving header to secure a deserved and very valuable point, halting a run of six successive defeats.

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Fulham 2-1 Wigan Athletic

Fulham came from behind to beat Wigan Athletic at Craven Cottage.

Jason Scotland fired the visitors in front after 34 minutes with his first Premier League goal. A deep cross from Mario Melchiot was knocked down by Marcelo Moreno for Scotland to send a low drive into the corner of the net.

Half-time substitute Stefano Okaka took just 90 seconds to level. Zoltan Gera robbed Paul Scharner on the left flank and his low cross towards the edge of the six-yard box was turned home by Okaka.

Fulham went 2-1 in front in the 58th minute when Duff's corner was met by the towering frame of Brede Hangeland, who directed his header into the net off the far post.

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Birmingham City 1-1 Liverpool

Liverpool lost more ground in the race for fourth place as they were held at Birmingham City.

Steven Gerrard gave the Merseysiders the lead two minutes after the break. Glen Johnson's attempted shot was well off target but dropped nicely into the path of Gerrard on the left side of the Birmingham box. The England midfielder had time to cut inside before unleashing a fierce shot across goal which flew into the far corner of the net.

However Liam Ridgewell equalised after 56 minutes. James McFadden was the creator with some neat trickery on the right flank before floating over a teasing cross which left Ridgewell with the simplest of tasks from close range.

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Burnley 1-6 Manchester City

Manchester City returned to fourth place in the Barclays Premier League after a comfortable win over Burnley.

Roberto Mancini's men were 5-0 up at half-time, with three of the goals coming in the space of three minutes.
Emmanuel Adebayor (2), Craig Bellamy, Carlos Tevez, Patrick Vieira and Vincent Kompany were all on target before Steven Fletcher replied for Burnley.

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Sunderland 3-1 Tottenham Hotspur

Darren Bent grabbed a brace as Sunderland won at home to Tottenham Hotspur.

The £10m man scored after just 34 seconds and then converted a 29th-minute spot-kick, although he was then denied twice from the penalty spot by keeper Heurelho Gomes either side of half-time.

Substitute Peter Crouch pulled one back for the visitors with 18 minutes remaining, but Bolo Zenden's stunning 86th-minute volley saw Spurs' run of five successive Barclays Premier League wins come to an end.

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