Premier League side Birmingham City edged their way into the Carling Cup third round with a narrow 3-2 win over League One Rochdale.

Alex McLeish made eight changes from the side that beat Blackburn in their previous match as he undoubtedly wanted to save some of his squad for this weekend’s Premier League clash against Bolton Wanderers.

One of those changes was James Derbyshire and the striker scored his first goal in England for two years after his spell with Olympiakos....

With Spurs looking to build on their most successful Premiership season, the imminent loss of their star striker Jermaine Defoe could well herald the end of their challenge for the Premier League before it has even properly begun.

With the striker due to undergo surgery on a groin injury that has plagued him since he took part in England’s disastrous World Cup campaign, Spurs may now have to cope without the striker for ties against West Brom and Wolves. Whilst these ties are not...

Diego Forlan’s consistently prolific record in La Liga along with his outstanding form at this summer’s World Cup, have made the striker one of the most sought after players in Europe.

Clubs in England are keen on bringing Forlan back to the Premier League. Forlan has however come out to stress that he is not looking to leave Atletico Madrid and is happy at the Vicente Calderon.

Last season Madrid had a poor season domestically finishing ninth in league when the La liga betting odds...

Everton fans are used to disappointment and after each one they tell themselves not to get their hopes up ever again.

But football being the fickle beast it is, the start of a new season, an encouraging pre-season programme, some exciting young summer signings and new contracts of several star players left Toffees fans salivating at what the club can achieve this year.

But, just before expectations were about to go into orbit, they were sent crashing back to earth with...

With the era of the 'big four' seemingly over after Liverpool entered self-destruct mode last season, pundits are split as to who will be the eventual Premier League champions.

While some suggest that looking no further than Chelsea or Manchester United is wise, others argue that the arrival of Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur at the top table means this season will see the most open title race since the creation of the Premier League.

Provided Chelsea are able...