|
|
Hughes first signing - Djorkaeff
comes to Ewood.
Mark Hughes has made his first signing, snapping up French World
cup star Youri Djorkaeff on a short-term deal until January,
after which both parties will assess the situation. Last week
it looked likely that Youri would join Fulham, but according
to his agent, the deal with Rovers went through today (Tuesday)-
"very quickly".
Quoted on the clubs website and bbc sport, the player said "I
am a naturally fit person and I have been keeping fit by training
hard in the south of France. "I feel I have another good two
years left in me."
At 36, he might not be one of the clubs youngest, but Mark
Hughes was of a similar 'vintage' when he joined the club as
a player - and look what he did! (28th
September 2004)
rovers.co.uk
(full
story) 
bbc.co.uk
(full story)
www.djorkaeff.com/
(dedicated site)
|
|
|
Another
disputed penalty - and Rovers loose 1-0 at Charlton
Despite having 63% of the possession, Rovers returned from Charlton
without the points, and a hotly contested hand ball penalty
decision - not given. Mark Hughes felt progress had been made
since last weeks cup defeat, and was pleased with progress.
Matt Jansen started again, and despite playing out of position,
received good reports on his performance.
It was all square at half time, but the home side took the lead
just two minutes after the break from a set piece when Talal
El Karkouri headed in the corner. Rovers then took control,
but failed to break down Charlton's defence. But there was controversy
when Referee Dunn upsets Mark Hughes and the fans failing to
award a clear penalty "It was clearly
a penalty," said Hughes
after Hermann Hreidarsson appeared to handle a Brett Emerton
cross "The officials were in good
positions and didn't make the decision - those are things that
turn games. I'm disappointed as we created more chances and
played the better football and were more progressive."
Rovers
stay in 16th place - and are back at Ewood this Saturday.
(27th
September 2004)
rovers.co.uk
(full report) bbc.co.uk
(full report)
bbc.co.uk
(Hughes reaction)
goals0405 &
t&t0405 (match stats)
|
|
|
Rovers
up for sale ???
The Daily Mirror report that Rovers could be up for sale if
the right off comes in ... In their 'exclusive' report they
say that a £50million bid might buy the club.. "Rovers
are now owned by the Jack Walker Trust who took charge of its
running after the multi-millionaire lifelong Rovers fan's death.
But Mirror Sport understands the Trust have made industry insiders
aware that they are ready to listen to offers if the right buyer
comes forward. It follows a disappointing spell for the club
which saw them struggle against relegation last season and new
manager Mark Hughes is also fighting a battle for survival.
Rovers have cut their wage bill and the days when they went
for big-name players under Walker's reign have now gone - it
is not a profitable or attractive business proposition."
(25th September 2004)
SEE mirror.co.uk
(full story) |
|
|
Rovers
crash out of the Carling Cup on penalties to Bournemouth
SHOCK RESULT ON MISERABLE NIGHT
AT EWOOD PARK.
Rovers Carling cup dream seemed to be off to
bright start after Brett Emerton scored with the first 8 minutes.
But a resilient Bournemouth were level after 11'00, and ahead
in 81'00. Rovers kept themselves in the tie with a injury time
equaliser from, sub Morten
Pedersen, so it was on to extra
time. Again Rovers started brightly with a goal within the first
minute from sub Paul
Gallagher, but when the second
period of extra time started it was Bournemouth who scored again
in the 110th minute. So at 3-3 it was time for the dreadful
penalty shoot out. Rovers Scored with their first three and
then Jonathan Stead struck wide. Peter Enckelman saved the visitors
2nd pen so when the first five had taken theirs it was all square
at 4-4. Sudden death saw Rovers Score through Douglas and Jansen,
but then Tugay found Row Z with the 8th. All Eddie Howe had
to do was score to Take the League one team through to a home
tie with Cardiff. They did and Rovers hopes of a return to Wales
with Mark Hughes are over for another year.
FINAL SCORE 3-3 AET (6-7) on penalties (22nd September 2004)
see
rovers.co.uk (full report)
bbc.co.uk
(full report)
goals0405 &
t&t0405 carling0405 (match
stats) |
|
|
Johnson
NOT going to Darlington
Mark Hughes
has stopped Jemal Johnson's proposed loan move to League Two's
Darlington. The 20-year-old had been set to join The Quakers,
however SKY SPORTS report that the youngster impressed in front
of Hughes in the Lancashire Cup. While Rovers lost to Blackpool
in the clash Johnson scored and SKY say that Hughes may now
be prepared to hand him a chance at senior level.(22nd September
2004)
See skysports.com
|
|
|
Hughes
makes first Rovers signing ...
Arsenal Reserve Team Manager, Eddie Niedzwiecki, has joined
Blackburn Rovers as new First Team Coach. It's Mark
Hughes first signing after he, and Mark Bowen signed up last
Thursday. The Arsenal official Webside say that Eddie joined
the Arsenal backroom staff from Chelsea in December 2000 and
has since worked very successfully developing the younger and
fringe players at the Club.
He worked with Sparky at Wales, and was goalkeeper at Wrexham
and Chelsea. Eddie was in the stands for Rovers win on Saturday,
and new boy Jay Bothroyd (once at Arsenal) mentioned him in
his post match interviews.
Arsenal said in a statement:- ''Everyone
at Arsenal would like to thank Eddie for his contribution during
his time at the club and wish him the best of the luck with
his new career at Blackburn.'' (20th
September 2004)
see rovers.co.uk
(full story)
skysports.com
(report)
arsenal.com
(statement)
bbc.co.uk
(report) |
|
|
Short
goes for tests
Rovers official website report that the club
are waiting fro results of tests on veteran defender Craig Short
after he was helped off at the weekend. Craig left the field
just ahead of the interval to be replaced by Lorenzo Amaruso.
It's not known yet how long he might be out of action - but
the medical staff at Brockhall are just hoping fro good news
after the scan.(20th
September 2004)
See rovers.co.uk
(full story) |
Matt
Jansen Celebrates |
MAGIC
from MATT - SUPER SPARKY!! -
A new Era at Ewood.
Matt
Jansen became the super sub, as he came of the bench to a wonderful
reception and went on to make everyone's day. Grown men cried
(honestly) when Matt struck home from 12 yards. The Radio Rovers
commentary team went in to overdrive and the stadium erupted!
It was the classic 'game of two halves' and a Rovers dominated
after the break having lost Craig Short to injury in the first.
It could have been 3-0 as the pressure mounted on Portsmouth.
Paul Dickov and Bret Emerton went only inches wide with powerful
shots. But the visitors also believed that they should have
had a penalty - which are never given at Ewood (to either side!)
For Mark Hughes it was the dream start and lifted Rovers to
16th in the table.
Mark Hughes told Radio Rovers "Our
energy levels dropped a little bit towards the end of the first
half, but in the second half we came out strong. Great for Matty,
he's had a difficult time, I think the fact that he came on
lifted the crowd, lifted Matty and lifted the team and I'm delighted
for him. Physically he's fine, he just needs a bit of confidence
and that will do him the world of good. We needed to get some
more energy on the field, the lads who came on give us the desired
effect, obviously the goal helped us and gave us renewed vigour,
we stuck at it and finished strongly and I was pleased with
that." (18th September 2004)
See
bbc.co.uk (full report)
rovers.co.uk
(full report)
WATCH
bbc.co.uk
(Mark Hughes post match interview)
goals0405 &
t&t0405 (match stats)
|
BACK
at Ewood
Welcome MARK HUGHES |
A
BIG 'welcome to Ewood Park' - Mark Hughes
At 11:30 this morning the Media
Theatre at Ewood Park was packed with press eager to meet and
welcome Blackburn Rovers new Manager - Mark Hughes. The bookies,
players and fans favourite comes on a two year fixed contract
+ 12 months rolling. He brings with him Mark Bowen - his former
assistant at Wales, and expects to add more new names to the
backroom staff over future weeks. Sparky takes over from Tony
Parkes for Saturdays crucial home game with Portsmouth, and
said he'd be talking to Tony about the team at Brockhall. Mark
also told the press that he'd be getting some information on
the squad from former manager Graeme Souness. He said he was
excited and delighted to be back at Rovers where he made many
friends in his two years as a player. Mark Bowen was reminded
of the thrashing Rovers gave his team when the new Blackburn
man played for Norwich City!
Hughes will remain in charge of the Wales team for their two
imminent Internationals, but insisted that his work with Rovers
would start straight away. Following the press conference, the
new manager went to Brockhall to meet the squad and be reunited
with some old friends. ROVERVISION
cameras went with him, and you'll be able to see their special
reports on RoversWorld (subscription
service) and at Ewood Park on the big screen this Saturday.
PLUS loads of special interviews and reports on RADIO
ROVERS from 11:00 BST this Saturday (1404 am in Blackburn
and around the world www.rovers.co.uk). (16th
September 2004)
rovers.co.uk
(special reports & EXCLUSIVE footage)
bbc.co.uk
(report)
|
|
|
Mark
Hughes scored twice on his debut for Rovers at Ewood Park against
Tranmere on October 25th 2000 - he played his part in Rovers
promotion that season and continued to make memorable contributions.
The next season when Rovers beat Arsenal in the Cup 4-0 Mark
scored the fourth and Matt Jansen was the 'hat trick hero'.
He was to play a remarkable 90 minutes in Cardiff when Rovers
beat spurs 2-1 to take the Worthington Cup in February 2002.
He continued his Roll as Welsh Manager while with Rovers and
'Sparky's Magic' left a memorable mark on his two years at the
club. (15th September 2004)
ALL
THE GOALS (2000-2001)
GOAL
TALLY (2000-2001)
ALL
THE GOALS (2001-2002)
GOAL
TALLY (2001-2002) |
|
|
!!! - HUGHES IS THE MAN
- !!!
At 20:00 BST - Blackburn Rovers issued the following statement.
Blackburn
Rovers Football Club announce tonight that Mark Hughes has been
appointed manager with immediate effect. There will be a Press
Conference at the Media Theatre, Ewood Park, tomorrow (Thursday)
at 11.30am.
see rovers.co.uk
bbc.co.uk
sky
sports.com
YAHOO!Sports
(Mark Hughes FACTBOX) |
|
|
Football Association of Wales Statement
on Mark Hughes
FAW Secretary General David Collins confirmed
that Rovers had made a move for Hughes. The BBC say that Colins
said: "We will now hold a meeting of
senior officers to consider our reaction." It is thought that
Hughes will stay in charge for Wales' October World Cup qualifiers
against England and Poland. Hughes' agent Dennis Roach, who
revealed the coach's interest in a return to Ewood Park, said
he wanted to stay with Wales for the ties."
Talking on SKY SPORTS NEWS - Collins outlined the options
at this stage, and that there had always been a clause for Mark
to talk with a Premiership club - if that offer came his way.
(15th Spetember 2004)
see
bbc.co.uk (full story)
HEAR David Collins on SKY
SPORTS NEWS (c) SKY
|
|
|
Football
Association of Wales to give OFFICIAL Statement at 15:30 BST
BBC
Sport report (11:15 BTS 15th September 2004) that:
"The Football Association of Wales will make a statement
on manager Mark Hughes' future on Wednesday. FAW secretary general
David Collins has planned a media announcement for 1530 BST,
with Hughes expected to take over as manager of Blackburn"
See bbc.co.uk
(full story) |
|
|
WHAT THE PAPERS SAY - 15th September 2004
" Hughes prepares to take up reins at Blackburn. By Oliver
Kay- The Times"
MARK HUGHES has reached an informal agreement that will see
him become the new manager of Blackburn Rovers next week, initially
on a part-time basis. The former Manchester United forward has
spent the past seven days agonising over whether to abandon
his post as Wales manager to pursue his ambitions at club level,
but he is now understood to have settled on a compromise that
would see him continue in both roles until the Football Association
of Wales (FAW) has found a suitable successor
Meanwhile Guardian Unlimited say:
"Hughes to take over
at Blackburn. By Dominic Fifield -
The Guardian"
Mark Hughes last night agreed to become the manager of Blackburn
Rovers and is expected to be introduced as Graeme Souness's
successor at Ewood Park early next week. The Wales coach will
initially combine his role at the Premiership club with his
duties for the national side, working towards next month's World
Cup qualifiers against England and Poland. However, Rovers envisage
him concentrating solely on his club job thereafter and will
eventually pay about £300,000 in compensation to the Football
Association of Wales to secure his services full-time.
Sparky joins Rovers today.
By Neil Custis - The Sun EXCLUSIVE
MARK HUGHES will be named as Blackburn Rovers boss today.
SunSport revealed yesterday how Sparky told the Ewood Park board
he wanted the job at an interview on Monday. They let him know
last night that he was their man and the deal will now be wrapped
up. Rovers have told the former Manchester United hero he can
carry on managing Wales part-time for their two World Cup qualifiers
next month.
See
timesonline.co.uk
(full text)
guardian.co.uk
(full text)
thesun.co.uk
(full text) |
HUGHES the MAN?? |
Sparky's
the one - say William Hill - and Hughes' agent!!
As the odds shorten for who will take over at Ewood Park, William
Hill issued the following statement today (Tuesday)
"HUGHES THE ONE.....Mark Hughes
is now odds-on favourite with William Hill to become the next
permanent Blackburn manager. Hills make him 1/3 favourite to
get the job after 'sustained backing' during the day and were
also offering 5/1 Dowie; 10/1 Advocaat, Strachan; when their
book closed for the night. 'This is the biggest move for Hughes
since we opened the book' said Hill's spokesman Graham Sharpe,
'and it may be significant that he has yet to rule himself definitely
out of the job.'
The news followed a statement this afternoon from
Hughes agent talking to BBC Sport - Dennis Roach told them that
the Wales' boss would find it hard to resist overtures to fill
Blackburn's managerial vacancy. "Mark
feels that if a Premier League team came up he would want to
take it. "I don't think Rovers would want him to do the Wales
job as well, the Premier League is difficult to survive in."
Covering any 'misunderstanding' there
might be about the former Rovers mans interest, Roach said "Come
and get him, he's waiting."
The BBC say that Tony Parkes will remain in temporary charge
for Saturday's match against Portsmouth, and continue for the
Carling Cup tie against Bournemouth on 22 September. But a new
manager could be in place before the Premiership trip to Charlton
on 27 September. (14th September 2004)
see
bbc.co.uk
williamhillmedia.com
(the statement)
sportinglife.com
(why Hughes is the man - PROFILE)
|
|
|
 |
Jury
Still out on new Rovers boss ..
Ian Dowie tops the poll, slightly ahead of Mark Hughes
and Dick Advocaat. Hearts head coach Craig Levein came
into the betting over the weekend and Gordon Strachan
is still in the top 5. Craig Short has been talking about
the possibilities of Mark Hughes appointment. He told
BBC Sport: "People say he has not done club management
yet but he deals with international players so he will
be able to handle it. I'd really like him there and he
is a popular choice in the dressing room but unfortunately
it is not up to me."
BBC sport also report that Hughes has every
intention of staying on as Wales coach "I've
no plans to leave the post, which is more than just a
job to me. I am a Welshman, who is as proud today of being
national team manager as I was on the day I was appointed."
The club have given nothing away so far - accept to
confirm that a strong field of candidates are being considered.
One name getting some backing this evening (Monday) is
Bryan Robson - Bradford boss last season. Some online
sites suggest that he's moved up to 8/1 - while others
have him as an outsider on 33/1 (13th September 2004)
See Online
Betting Guide (betting)
bbc.co.uk (craig Short)
bbc.co.uk (Mark Hghes)
bbc.co.uk
(Levein) |
|
|
|
Poor
start for Parkes in the North East
Gary
Flitcroft and Jonathan Douglas returned to the Blackburn line
up at St. James's Park. Rovers might have started brightly -
but seven minutes into the first half, Gary Flitcroft was credited
with an og to give Newcastle an early lead. Alan Shearer was
next to add to the toon tally on 16 minutes and at half time
2-0 up the home side had had 68% of the possession. After the
interval, Jonathan Douglas came on for Morten Pedersen who'd
struggled in the first half Brett Emerton was later replaced
by new boy Jay Bothroyd given his first chance for Rovers who
immediately put in a great cross for Paul Dickov who almost
connected and could have had a good shot on goal. Rovers had
much more of the ball in the second half, but struggled to break
down the home side. Then within the last ten minutes Newcastle
got their third through Andrew O'Brien. Newcastle were the better
throughout the match outfit , and the new Manager will take
over on Monday with a winning side. (11th September 2004)
See
rovers.co.uk
(report)
bbc.co.uk
(report)
bbc.co.uk
(reaction)
goals0405 &
t&t0405 (match stats) |
HUGHES
FAVOUIRITE
|
'Sparky'
could be the one as Rovers prepare
The
Lancashire evening Telegraph reveal that in their poll of Rovers
fans Mark Hughes is streets ahead as a choice for Manager. On
the day that the club announced that a shortlist had been drawn
up, Hughes has received plaudits from players and fans alike.
The Welsh boss has a special place in the clubs history after
his memorable 90 minutes at Cardiff, helping the club to their
last Silverware a few seasons ago. The full results of the poll
are MARK HUGHES 59% GORDON STRACHAN 23% GERARD HOULLIER 3% KENNY
DALGLISH 12% MIKE NEWELL 2% PETER REID 1%.
Meanwhile John Williams issued the following statement on progress
so far.
"We are delighted with the quality
of the applicants and the huge interest the post has created.
In the space of four days we have reached a position where we
are able to move on to phase two and draw up a shortlist. It
is absolutely imperative that we get this appointment right
and we will take whatever time we feel is necessary. Interviewing
is a two-way process and we expect to have some detailed discussions
over the coming days. I trust that everyone will understand
and respect that situation and we do not anticipate making any
further statements until we are in a position to name our new
manager."
Caretaker boss Tony Parkes told rovers.co.uk
that he'd had a great week with the players as they prepare
fro their trip to Newcastle this weekend.
He said "First of all, I want to say
how much I have enjoyed this week. Footballers are a resilient
bunch and they have been excellent and are really looking forward
to the next game. In situations like this, it's always difficult
to know how things will pan out. Supported by Rob Kelly and
Terry Darracott, the players have responded very well to training
this week. You can sense they want to go out and show all's
well at Blackburn Rovers. Tomorrow, we are playing one of the
top five teams in one of the top stadiums. It's a game that
will excite everybody involved, including the people in our
squad."
Returning
to the Parkes selection for the trip are Matt Jansen and Gary
Flitcroft. (10th September 2004)
See
rovers.co.uk
(Parkes)
itv-football.co.uk
(Rovers statement)
bbc.co.uk
(BIG game perview)
bbc.co.uk
(Rovers Shortlist) |
|
|
Backroom
staff follow Souness
SKY
Sports report that three more Rovers management team have taken
the road to the north east. Assistant manager Alan Murray, First
team coaches Phil Boersma and Dean Saunders have all been lured
to join up with their former boss. This leaves Tony Parkes in
charge - and the Manager a chance to recruit his own staff to
join him at Ewood Park. (8th September 2004)
See
Sky
Sports.com |
|
|
Who'll
be the new man in charge?
The
websites and papers are full of speculation about who'll take
over from Graeme Souness at Ewood, and according to many tipped
for the post - much is just that - 'speculation'.
But according to the bbc site - Former Holland coach Dick
Advocaat has already applied. The former Rangers boss is believed
to be one of about 30 candidates, with the Rovers board planning
to meet on Thursday.
One former Rover - Wales boss Mark Hughes - includes himself
in the 'speculation' category but remains the bookies favourite.
(8th September 2004)
SEE
Mark Hughes VIDEO on bbc.co.uk
bbc.co.uk
(Dick Advocaat)
ALSO
See SKY
sports.com (Dick Advocaat)
|
 
THEN
..AND ..NOW
SIXTH TIME
in charge |
Goodbye
Graeme - Souness for St. James's
In a shock move this morning (Monday 6th September 2004)
Rovers Manager Graeme Souness quite Blackburn for Newcastle.
Unlike most moves - there wasn't even a hint of what was
going on over the weekend - but in a press statement this
morning, the club confirmed that Souness had resigned and
was to take up the vacancy in the North East after Rovers
Game with Newcastle next weekend.
The club statement read:-
Rovers can now confirm that a satisfactory level of compensation
has been reached and Graeme is today leaving Ewood Park
to take up the position as manager of Newcastle United Football
Club, effective from Monday 13 September.
They quoted John Williams as saying:-
"My
reading of the situation is quite clear. Graeme is very
reluctant to leave a job he considers one of the best in
the business, but he views Newcastle as a massive opportunity
and one he cannot resist. We wish him well for the future
and thank him for four successful years.
"But now is the time to look forward and we need to focus
all our energies on finding Graeme's successor. We have
an excellent squad of players and have a lot to offer the
new manager, not least a financially stable club, and we
expect considerable interest in the position.
"It is time to move on, we know what we are looking for
and anticipate a very strong list of applicants."
The
club later confirmed that Tony Parkes would become caretaker
manager for a record 6th time with immediate effect. It's
also thought that Graeme will take his closest backroom
staff with him to the North East.
The favourites to take over include
Mark Hughes, Gordon Strachan, and even Kenny Dalglish
THERE
ARE A HOST OF WEBSITES LINKED TO THIS STORY:-
HERE
ARE JUST A FEW - JUST CLICK ON THESE LINKS BELOW...
(6th September 2004)
rovers.co.uk
(official
site)
bbc.co.uk
(full
story )
teamtalk.com
(full story) fansfc.com
(Newell link to post)
bbc.co.uk/lancashire
(Lancs ARCHIVE + AUDIO)
football365.com
(Tony Parkes takes over)
itv-football.co.uk
(Parkes)
breakingnews.ie
(Souness and Parkes)
skybet.com (The lastest Odds)
squarefootball.net
(The odds on the new man)
sportinglife.com
(Pedersen surprised by news)
premiereleague.com
(Background to story)
sportsindependent.co.uk (The full Rovers story + Tony Parkes
loyal years of service)
|
|
|
Jansen
on Jay ... new boy get thumbs up from Matt
Matt Jansen has today been talking about Rovers
new striker Jay Bothroyd - and his own future at Ewood.
Jansen knows about Bothroyd after he played up front with him
during a loan spell at Coventry City two years ago. Matt told
the Lancashire Evening Telegraph "He's certainly a handful,
he's a young lad who'll cause problems for defenders. He's a
confidence player so if he does well as soon as he comes in
then I'm sure he will build on that."
The paper says that Bothroyd has had something of a chequered
career since he first broke onto the scene as a teenager at
Arsenal. But then a bust-up with Don Howe led to him leaving
Highbury and joining Coventry.
Abroad, Jay scored a goal on his Serie A debut against Sienna
pointed to greater things ahead but Bothroyd only managed three
more during the rest of the campaign and he later lost his place
to Fabrizio Ravanelli.
Of course - the new strikers arrival pushed Matt Jansen back
down the pecking order. Linked yesterday with a loan to PNE
- Matt told the Telegraph "At the end of the day, things
change quickly in football so I'll bide my time and if in January
things are still the same then I'll maybe have to say 'I've
got to go' and try and re-launch my career elsewhere."
(2nd September 2004) |
|
|
Deepdale
for Jansen??
SKY
Sports report that Preston North End have confirmed their
interest in Matt Jansen. The 26-year old was a surprise target
for Celta Vigo before the transfer window closed, but it has
now emerged that Preston are the club most interested in him.
However, SKY say that , Matt's wages (reported £25,000 a week)
could prove to be a stumbling block for Preston. Chairman Derek
Shaw says "I have my doubts that the deal will now happen."
SEE
SKY
Sports (2nd Septemper 2004)
|
|
|
Dwight
OUT - Jay IN as window closes.
The final day of the transfer window saw two late deals for
Blackburn - Jay Bothroyd coming in on loan for the rest of the
season, and veteran Dwight Yorke leaving to join Birmingham
City. Both moves took fans by surprise - with 22 year Jay joining
from Perugia (01/07/2003 - 30/06/2006) via Coventry (01/07/2000
- 30/06/2003) and Arsenal (01/07/1999 - 30/06/2000). The Manager
says that having scored goals in Serie' A' isn't a bad pedigree!
Rovers have an option to buy and it's hoped the move will "bring
the best out of him."
Meanwhile news that Dwight Yorke might make a move north of
the border were quashed very late on with a an offer from Birmingham
City. Dwight gets a one year contract with an option to extend.
At Rovers he made 54 appearances and scored 19 goals. His former
strike partner Andy Cole has already established himself at
Fulham.
Also report that Rovers favourite Matt Jansen was about to depart
seemed to have been quashed with some papers saying that he
wanted to stay "and fight for his place".
SEE rovers.co.uk YORKE
and BOTHROYD - ALSO SEE bbc.co.uk YORKE
AND
BOTHROYD (1st September 2004) |
|
|
A
pattern emerges?
Only a week after Rovers played Southampton - and their Manager
was sacked, Sir Bobby Robson has been 'relived of his duties'
at the club Rover play NEXT!
The football legends 5 year reign at St. James's Park came
to an end this morning with the announcement from the club.
Rovers former favourite Alan Shearer (linked with a possible
move back to Ewood) is one of the names in the frame to take
on a roll at Newcastle
Newcaslte United said "The directors wish to thank Sir
Bobby for the way in which he has worked tirelessly over the
past five years to try to bring success to the club. The club
agreed early in 2003 to extend Sir Bobby's contract by one
further season. However after careful consideration the club
decided it was in the best interest of all concerned to revisit
that decision. The club will no doubt continue to benefit
from the knowledge and experience he has given during his
time here."
Meanwhile
in a remarkable development the Daily
Mail run an 'exclusive' saying that Rovers have made a
further enquiry to Shearer offering him the chance to finish
his playing days at Ewood. The site say "The veteran
was furious after being dropped by troubled manager Sir Bobby
Robson and that decision sparked a fresh inquiry from Souness
yesterday."
SEE
bbc.co.uk (30th
August 2004) AND
mirror.co.uk (30th August 2004)
|
|
|
Jansen
to leave Ewood??
The
News of the World suggest that Matt Jansen might be leaving
Rovers in the near future.Quoted on bbc.co.uk
- the manager says Souness told the News of the World: "Matt
is in the last year of his contract - he is our player until
someone comes in with an offer.He needs games and right now
there's Jon Stead, Paul Dickov, Dwight Yorke and Paul Gallagher
in front of him."
Matt was a true Rovers favourite and top scorer in the season
that saw the team return to the Premiership. He scored the wining
goal at Deepdale to secure promotion and was on the top of his
game and called up to the England squad when he suffered a near
fatal road accident when on holiday in Italy. Since his return
to health, Jansen's failed to return to regular first team duties,
and now it looks like he might have to leave the club to further
his career.
The new comes close the the transfer Window deadline, and Manager
Graeme Souness hopes to add Frenchman Charles Coridon before
Tuesday. Available on a free transfer after being released by
French club Lens, Coridon, 31, has been on trial at Ewood. Souness
says: "I'd like to add him to the squad. He impressed us and
we hope to get a deal done."
SEE bbc.co.uk
ALSO Watch Matt Score the goal to secure
promotion HERE
(56k) AND BROADBAND |
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Smith
spoils Rovers day - with just 10 seconds to go.
Alan Smith scored the equaliser for Manchester United deep in
to injury time, and Saha had a hand in it - literally!
Brad Friedel played out of his skin to try and help Rovers hang
on to their 1-0 lead after Paul Dickov scored his second for
the club after 16 minutes. Friedel made some remarkable saves
as United had chance after chance in the second half, but he
was finally beaten with only seconds to go when Smith struck
his equaliser after being 'handed the ball' by Saha. Rovers
fans were furious about the manner of the goal - and the time
- almost 94 minutes. Graeme Souness didn't come out for the
post match interviews, but Dean Saunders told
rovers.co.uk "There was a blatant hand ball for their
goal. It is sickening really, we've had the stuffing knocked
out of us, the manager's head is boiling. We have just to try
to lift the players up, we can't feel sorry for ourselves, we
just hope that the next few games we get some lucky breaks..
It finished 1-1 and Rovers moves up to 18th place in the league
SEE rovers.co.uk
AND bbc.co.uk
PLUS goals0405 &
t&t0405 (18th August 2004) |
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Morten
on board, and ready for United
Rover
have completed the signing of Norwegian International Morten
Gamst Pedersen, and he's also been cleared to play straight
away. That could mean a remarkable start to his Rovers career
at home to Manchester United this Saturday (tomorrow). Pedersen
told rovers.co.uk
(and Rovers World) that he was delighted to sign fro 4 years
at Ewood, and is looking forward to start scoring goals fro
Rovers. His reputation back home ranks the 22 year old as one
of Norways best youngsters with a terrific goal tally.
You can hear Morten on Radio Rovers on Saturday morning (on-air
from 09:00 BST) and from his proud Father - a former footballer
himself.
Rovers kick of against Manchester United at 12:45 - Tune
to 1404 am from 09:00 or log on to Rovers World (needs subscription)
for full match coverage.
SEE rovers.co.uk
(27th August 2004) |
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Rovers
get a Carling Cup home draw
Blackburn have drawn Bournemouth at home in the next round of
the Carling Cup. The game will be played at Ewood w/c 20th September.
The full Carling Cup second round draw:
Burnley v Wolverhampton Coventry v Sheff Wed MK Dons v Cardiff
Leicester v Mansfield/Preston Oldham v Tottenham Colchester
v West Brom Reading v Watford Wrexham v Sheff Utd Notts Forest
v Rotherham Norwich v Bristol Rovers Crewe v Sunderland Tranmere
v Portsmouth Man City v Barnsley Birmingham v Lincoln Northampton
v Southampton Blackburn v Bournemouth Grimsby v Charlton
Crystal Palace v Hartlepool Boston/Luton v Fulham West Ham v
Notts County Leeds v Swindon Aston Villa v QPR Doncaster v Ipswich
Yeovil v Bolton Bristol City v Everton (25th August 2004) 
Match to be played on Wednesday 22nd September ko 19:45 hrs. |
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3-0
as Arsenal make it a record 43 undefeated.
It's of no comfort to Rovers,
but they were on the wrong side of a bit of English football
history, as the Gunners made it a remarkable 43 games without
defeat However Rovers first half performance matched that of
the Champions, with all three goals coming after the break.
Graeme Souness told Rovers World that her had no complaints
"I thought we matched them in every department in the
first half, we had as many chances as they did. We spoke at
half-time about keeping a clean sheet, but five minutes into
it they scored and from then on it was an uphill battle. Arsenal
changed up a gear and the result was never in doubt." He
said.
Rovers drop to 19th in the league with Manchester United next
at Ewood on Saturday.
SEE rovers.co.uk
AND bbc.co.uk
ALSO on this site goals0405 |
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Pedersen
on board
Blackburn Rovers have confirmed that they've agreed an undisclosed
fee for Morten Gamst Pedersen. The Norwegian is expected to
travel to Blackburn on Thursday for a medical and to discuss
personal terms with Rovers.
SEE
rovers.co.uk (25th August 2004) |
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D'Urso
Charged - Ferguson to miss Arsenal clash.
BBC
Sport report that Referee Andy D'Urso has been charged by
the FA after he failed to send off Barry Ferguson, despite cautioning
him twice on Saturday at Southampton. The FA will adjudicate
whether D'Urso is guilty of "less than proficiently applying
the laws of the game".
But sadly the second yellow stands and so the captain will miss
the trip to Arsenal on Wednesday. The Gunners will be aiming
for a record 43 games unbeaten!
New rules this season state that suspensions are to be served
immediately rather than two weeks after the event as in previous
seasons.
Ferguson
to miss Arsneal - rovers.co.uk (23rd August 04) AND bbc.co.uk
D'Urso (23rd August 2004) |
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OFF
or ON - conflicting reports on Pedersen deal
Reports
at lunchtime (Monday) on Rovers official site (rovers.co.uk)
suggested that the latest offer for Morten Gamst Pedersen had
been rejected. But this evening fansfc.com
quote Bjorn Tore Markussen at Tromso as saying "The offer
is, traditionally, built up. It's about a guaranteed amount,
a part based on performances and a part based on an eventual
sale to a third club. The total package of the offer is great
but we are not pleased with the way the money has been offered.
This is not an easy matter for the club. We have got to take
care of many things, the player, the club and the fans."
It looks more likely that the two clubs might now be close to
an agreement.
See rovers.co.uk
AND
fansfc.com (23rd August 2004) |
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Coridon
in the frame??
SKY Sports report an 'exclusive'
story that Lens midfielder Charles Edouard Coridon could be
on his way to Ewood Park. They say that Rovers have invited
Coridon to train with them for the next few days so that Graeme
Souness can have a closer look. The player's agent Willie McKay
told SKY that Blackburn had jumped to the head of the queue
for Coridon . "Charles is currently training with Blackburn
for the next few days, he's a top quality player who has played
in the Champions League and we have agreed a deal with Lens
to let him leave for free. There are three other Premiership
clubs keen on Charles, and Celtic are still keen as Martin O'Neill
has told me a deal is not closed for him at Parkhead.
At the minute it is case of first come first served because,
when a club makes an offer, Charles will make his decision,
and as it stands Blackburn are in pole position."
SEE
SKY SPORTS  (22nd
August 2004) |
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FA
will investigate D'Urso, over Fergusson second booking.
BBC sport
report that The FA is to investigate why referee Andy D'Urso
did not send off Rovers skipper Barry Ferguson in Saturday's
game against Southampton. The ref cautioned Ferguson twice but
inexplicably DIDN'T send him off. Various reports at the time
and since said that D'Urso booked Tugay - but he wasn't anywhere
near play when the yellow card was shown. The BBC quote head
of refereeing John Baker as saying "We have to ask why he
was not sent off and the role of the fourth official, who should
have told him what had happened."The first responsibility is
the referee's but there is a responsibility of the fourth official.
But it was right at the end of the game and it happened very
quickly. That has to be taken into account and we cannot anticipate
what will happen."
It's still expected that Ferguson will serve his one match
ban - but will it be against Arsenal (on Wednesday) or next
weekend at home to Manchester United?
See bbc.co.uk (22nd August 2004) |
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Beattie
spoils Rovers day at St. Mary's 3-2
James Beattie scored a questionable
penalty in injury time after Rovers came from a goal behind
to take a 2-1 lead at Southampton. Both Barry Ferguson and Paul
Dickov opened their accounts for Blackburn before the home side
got a second to level the score. Then a minute into injury time,
a questionable penalty decision saw the ex Rovers James Beatie
step up to score the winner. Controversy about a second yellow
card awarded to captain Barry Ferguson in the dying minutes
of the fame - who was NOT sent off, continue to be hotly debated,
SEE
bbc.co.uk full match report ALSO
rovers.co.uk
(report) AND rovers.co.uk
(reaction) |
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Could
Garry 'Flit' across the Pennines?
Various sites report that Rovers former captain Garry Flitcroft
could be in line for a move to relegated Leeds United.
The Guardian says Kevin Blackwell hopes to wrap up a deal for
the Garry by the weekend. (24th August 2004) |
