The Premier League has revealed that it is contemplating a new play-off system to determine which team claims the fourth Champions League qualifying spot.

Football is an expensive hobby these days.

The sacking of Mark Hughes as Manchester City manager comes as little surprise to most people.

After the World Cup draw was made in South Africa just three weeks before Christmas, England coach Fabio Capello could not have wished for a better group.

Thierry Henry’s handball handed France a place at the World Cup finals and broke Irish hearts in Paris.

Steven Gerrard’s controversial penalty earned the Reds a 2-2 draw at Anfield on Monday.

It wasn’t that long ago when teams were heavily fined for fielding under-strength teams, no matter what the competition.

He only played half an hour in England’s final World Cup qualifier but it was enough for David Beckham to show why he deserves a spot in South Africa.

Just two weeks after Sir Alex Ferguson gloated after what he described as “probably the greatest derby ever”.

So, the Premier League clubs have agreed new rules for next season stating that at least eight players in a squad of 25 be what is termed ‘home grown’.

When the going gets tough, the tough get going – and for under-fire Diego Maradona.

For many, the August Bank Holiday weekend marks the end of the most exciting three-month period of the year.