.

Site Notice

2007-01-29T13:13:00.001Z

Sorry! Reopen in May.

Agent Reveals Rossi Interest

2007-01-24T18:15:00.000Z

Giuseppe Rossi's agent has claimed that Barcelona - along with a number of other top European clubs - are showing a keen interest in the Manchester United youngster.

The Italian Under 21 international failed to shine at Newcastle during the first half of the season, but scored on his Parma debut on Sunday after moving to Serie A on loan to underline his credentials as a talented prospect.

Rossi is highly-rated within the halls of Old Trafford but now Sir Alex Ferguson's plans to make the New Jersey-born striker a key figure in his future plans could be under threat following the news that Internazionale, Milan, Juventus and Roma have all enquired about his availability.

Agent Andrea Pastorello has revealed that United knocked back an offer for the forward in the summer, as well as confirming that European Champions Barcelona are keen admirers of the player who had been linked with a further loan move to Sunderland.

"We have had contact with Barcelona," Pastorello is quoted in the Guardian.

"But I repeat that it will not be easy to take him away from Manchester United.

"They've already said no to £4.2million, which is no small fee by today's standards.

"They have great faith in Giuseppe and turned down a £4.2million bid before the season started.

"I'm grateful to United and we will never clash. But in terms of his characteristics, I think Rossi is more suited to the Italian game and that's why we rejected a loan to another English club [after his spell at Newcastle].

"He is at Parma now and he has a chance to shine."

Rossi debut delight

2007-01-22T16:37:00.000Z

New arrival Giuseppe Rossi was thrilled after scoring the winning goal on his Parma debut against Torino.

The 19-year-old Italian-American joined the Stadio Tardini outfit earlier this week on loan from Manchester United, a return to the club where he grew up in the youth system before leaving in 2004.

“I am happy I scored, but I am also pleased with the team’s performance – we played well and we earned three very important points,” explained the striker.

“I am happy with my debut, but I am also aware that I must keep my feet on the ground,” added Rossi, whose goal allowed Parma to move to third from the bottom of the table with 15 points.

“When you are young you need to play, that is why I agreed to a loan deal. If you want to be a footballer you have to make sacrifices. I have moved so many times in the past few years.

“I must admit that things have been going very well so far and I hope this continues. I came here to play as much as possible and I will give my best to help the team.”

Rossi made his debut for the Italy Under-21 side last summer and hopes that his Parma switch means he will once again be called upon by Coach Pierluigi Casiraghi.

“I have played four matches with the Azzurrini so far and I hope I will be called-up for the upcoming friendly with Belgium on February 6,” admitted the player.

“Alessandro Rosina is one of my U-21 teammates and he confirmed today that he can be very dangerous, although our defenders did well and conceded no space.

“Our next matches are with Milan, Roma and Fiorentina. It will be very difficult, but we will try to win every one of them. We must focus on one game at a time – I am sure we can remain in Serie A.”

Video: First goal for Parma

2007-01-22T16:32:00.000Z

commentator: "he's arrived Giuseppe Rossi. Oh my mum, what a wonderful goal! It is to keep on watching it!"

Parma 1 Torino 0

2007-01-21T20:28:00.000Z

74' Parma 1-0 Torino: Rossi socres

Wonderful goal from Giuseppe Rossi as he takes the ball down on the edge of the area before slipping past two defenders and firing home a low left-footed shot.

After scoring on his Parma debut, Giuseppe Rossi said: 'It was a wonderful game and we showed we have character. I am pleased to play for Parma and they are three important points.'

Photos: Parma 1 Torino 0

2007-01-21T17:09:00.000Z

Parma-Torino: Official line-ups

2007-01-21T08:29:00.000Z

PARMA (3 4 1 2) - 5. Bucci (V.Cap.); 28. Paci, 24. Couto, 25. Perna; 26. Ferronetti, 13. Grella (Cap), 6. Bolano, 7. Castellini; 10. Morfeo; 8. G.Rossi, 20. Budan
Coach. Pioli
Subs: 32. Virgili; 17. M.Rossi, 80. Bocchetti, 4. Dessena, 34. Savi, 18. Gasbarroni, 9. Muslimovic

TORINO (3 4 2 1) - 1. Taibi; 4. Brevi (Cap), 6. Cioffi, 14. I. Franceschini; 22. Comotto, 8. Barone, 15. De Ascentis, 3. Balestri; 10. Rosina, 7. Fiore; 9. Muzzi (V.C.)
Coach. Zaccheroni
Subs: 31. Fontana; 2. Pancaro, 5. Gallo, 17. Lazetic, 18. Ogbonna, 19. Abbruscato, 11. Stellone

Photos: Press Conference

2007-01-20T17:11:00.000Z

Photos: First Training

2007-01-20T17:10:00.000Z

Zamagna Has Brought Back Rossi to Parma

2007-01-19T23:15:00.000Z

Italiano

Simplified Version in English:

Giuseppe Rossi has revealed his delight at sealing his loan move to Parma.

The Manchester United starlet has recently returned from a less than inspiring spell at Newcastle.

"Let’s forget the past," said the striker who had a disappointing loan spell at Newcastle in the first half of this season.

Sir Alex Ferguson has now granted Parma's request - with the promise that the exciting 19-year-old will see regular first team action, which was not forthcoming at St James' Park.

"When a player is loaned, he hopes to be able to play," Rossi told the news conference to confirm his signature.

"Here [Parma] there is the possibility. I'm in a moment in my career, where I must play.

"Here at Parma I want to play regularly, only this way can I give my best."

"I am at a time in my career when I must play on a consistent basis. I want to help the team and I hope I will put into practice what I learnt in England."

"I'm here to show I can do good things. From my side, I'll give the best to help the team."

Rossi, who left Parma as a youngster to move to Old Trafford, admitted he was looking forward to his first taste of Serie A action.

"When you have trained with big champions like Scholes, Rooney or Cristiano Ronaldo, you earn a lot," he said.

"Since I left Parma I've learnt a lot. I've played about 20 matches with Manchester and it has been a good experience.

"It's a different football, based more on the physical, whilst here in Italy it is based especially on technique."

Rossi, who left for England in 2004, is considered as one of Italy’s most promising attacking talents.

And after making his debut for the Under-21 side last summer, he’s hungry to be confirmed by Coach Pierluigi Casiraghi. “I want to be called-up again,” admitted the player.

Parma are currently second from the bottom in Serie A and hope to return to winning ways on Sunday when they will host Torino.

Reds confirm Rossi loan deal

2007-01-19T15:23:00.000Z

Giuseppe Rossi is to join Parma on loan for the rest of the season as he looks to gain first-team experience.

The 19-year-old spent the first half of the season on loan at Newcastle, but he started only three league games at St James' Park.

Reds boss Sir Alex Ferguson had intimated that he would be keeping the promising Italy Under-21 international at Old Trafford to aid United's bid for trophies on three fronts.

But Rossi will now head back to the club that United signed him from in the summer of 2004.

Having added Henrik Larsson to the main pack of strikers at Old Trafford - including Louis Saha, Wayne Rooney and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer - United this week tied up a new deal for Chinese international Dong Fangzhuo, who now has a work permit.

With Alan Smith working on boosting his fitness, Sir Alex could have six strikers at his disposal. So Rossi's move to Serie A should afford him the first-team opportunities he needs to progress his career.

Photos: Training 050106

2007-01-05T17:53:00.000Z

Rossi to stay at United

2006-12-30T16:22:00.000Z

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Giuseppe Rossi will stay at Manchester United for the rest of the season.

Rossi has just returned to Old Trafford from a four-month spell with Newcastle, but speculation had suggested he could be loaned out to Sunderland until the summer.

However, Ferguson has decided to keep Rossi to aid United's title push.

"I don't see why we should let anyone go who is going to be useful to us," Ferguson explained.

"The run-in could be full of all sorts of pitfalls. We want to be prepared for it and we want to be able to handle it all, so it is good to get Giuseppe back."

Rossi only made a few appearances for Newcastle but Ferguson believes he benefited from his time at St James' Park.

"He has great talent, which is why we let him go to Newcastle. And even though he did not have a lot of games, he still comes back to us with a bit more experience and a bit of quality," he said.

Rossi's return, together with the arrival of Henrik Larsson on loan, will boost United's string options, but Ferguson feels Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's return to form after three injury-plagued seasons has been crucial in the first half of the season.

"Ole is a 100 percent bonus for us this season," said Ferguson.

"You have to be concerned about anyone who has been out for that length of time, but he is such a determined lad and he has handled his rehabilitation with absolutely perfect consideration and care for himself.

"He has been really attentive to everything we have done with him. He is just a great professional."

Black Cats rule out Rossi move

2006-12-29T16:23:00.000Z

Sunderland boss Roy Keane has ruled out a loan move for Manchester United's Giuseppe Rossi, but the former Red Devil is confident that Jonny Evans will join Phil Bardsley in moving from Old Trafford.

Italian Under 21 international Rossi has been linked with an immediate return to the North East when his loan spell with Newcastle expires after Saturday's game against Everton.

However Keane has stated he has no plans to bring the young forward to The Stadium of Light in January.

"The name Rossi keeps coming up and I keep ruling it out," Keane told the Sunderland Echo. "I'm happy to do so again."

Rossi ready for United Return

2006-12-28T16:20:00.000Z

Giuseppe Rossi has been recalled by Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Italy Under 21 striker will end his loan spell at Newcastle at the weekend and has spoken to Ferguson about his chances of making a breakthrough at Old Trafford.

Rossi has never got a run of starts whilst at St James' Park but Ferguson now intends to use him in the New Year as United push for the Premiership crown.

"I'm looking forward to going back to Old Trafford," 19-year-old Rossi told The Mirror. "I've spoken to Sir Alex Ferguson and I hope there will be opportunities for me to play when I go back.

"That's my main priority now, that's all I'm thinking about. He has said he wants to have a big squad of players in the second half of the season and there might be an opportunity for me to show what I can do.

"It's a great time to be going back to Manchester United because we're challenging for the title and in the latter stages of the Champions League. Obviously I'd love to be involved in that.

"I'd have liked to have played more games at Newcastle, which has been a little frustrating. But in life, you take something from every experience, whether they are good or bad.

"I've enjoyed myself. I've had a few games under my belt, but it was only ever about coming here and taking that experience back with me to Manchester United. That was the purpose of the move.

"I'll always have fond memories of the Newcastle fans, they are so passionate and whenever we have gone away they have followed us in their thousands. But I'm not thinking of coming back, I'm only thinking about Manchester United."

Roeder eyes Rossi sparks

2006-12-13T11:55:00.000Z

Manchester United youngster Giuseppe Rossi will have the chance to do his parent club a huge favour when he turns out for Newcastle against Chelsea on Wednesday.

The forward has endured a frustrating spell on loan at Newcastle, as he has hardly figured for The Magpies despite their poor form and injury problems.

Rossi is set to head back to Manchester on New Year's Day, but he will have the chance to secure hero status first.

The mounting injury problems on Tyneside are set to prompt Glenn Roeder into deploying Rossi on the right wing and the Magpies chief is hopeful the youngster will be in the mood to impress.

"Young Rossi has every chance of playing, and I know that nothing would give him more pleasure than helping us get something out of Chelsea," Roeder told the Daily Mirror.

"It goes without saying that it would also give his boss Sir Alex Ferguson a lot of pleasure too. He could do his club a big favour.

"I am sure he will be getting plenty of good luck messages from his mates in the North West."

Roeder happy to have Rossi

2006-12-05T14:33:00.000Z

Glenn Roeder is happy to have Giuseppe Rossi available again after Sir Alex Ferguson complained about the striker's lack of appearances at Newcastle United.

Rossi is currently on loan at St James' Park from Manchester United, with Ferguson wanting the youngster to gain first-team experience.

But Rossi has started just two Premiership games for Newcastle and Ferguson expressed his unhappiness at the situation over the weekend.

He is ready to bring the forward back to Old Trafford in January, although Roeder does not want to be drawn into a row.

Instead, the Magpies manager is looking forward to being able to select Rossi for Wednesday's Premiership game with Reading.

"I have not been in contact with Sir Alex," said Roeder.

"An experienced manager, as he is, he will understand I have got to do my job the way I see it.

"Seppe Rossi was at a funeral in Milan for our last Premiership game against Portsmouth, and of course Manchester United did not want him playing for us in Europe.

"But he is available again tomorrow and I am delighted he is. He should play some part for us."

Fergie bemoans Rossi plight

2006-12-02T14:34:00.000Z

Giuseppe Rossi will return to Manchester United in January, with Sir Alex Ferguson unhappy with the number of games the striker has played at Newcastle United.

Ferguson loaned the youngster to The Magpies in the expectation he would accrue valuable Premiership experience.

But Rossi has started just two league games, and appeared as a substitute four times, much to Ferguson's frustration.

With United short of attacking options at present, Ferguson suggested Rossi would have been better served staying at Old Trafford.

"Giuseppe will come back to us because he is just not getting enough football at Newcastle," said Ferguson.

"The understanding we had with them was that he would play more games.

"Every manager is subject to their own opinions on players, so I don't want to say too much about that.

"But we could have done with him here, so he might as well come back to us."

U21:Latest Italy U21 line-up

2006-11-29T16:40:00.000Z

Goalkeepers
Andrea Consigli
Gianluca Curci
Emiliano Viviano

Defenders
Marco Andreolli
Giorgio Chiellini
Andrea Coda
Hernán Dellafiore
Damiano Ferronetti
Andrea Mantovani
Francesco Pisano
Alessandro Potenza
Giuseppe Scurto

Midfielders
Alberto Aquilani
Luca Cigarini
Marino Defendi
Daniele Dessena
Andrea Lazzari
Francesco Lodi
Riccardo Montolivo
Piermario Morosini
Antonio Nocerino
Simone Padoin
Aleandro Rosi
Alessandro Rosina

Forwards
Raffaele Palladino
Giampaolo Pazzini
Nicola Pozzi
Giuseppe Rossi

Last updated: 28/11/2006 11:33 CET

U21:Final tournament - Group phase

2006-11-24T16:44:00.000Z

Group B Italy
11.06.2007 v Serbia
14.06.2007 v England
17.06.2007 v Czech Republic

U21:Italian will take on Czech, England & Serbia

2006-11-24T16:34:00.001Z

Hosts and holders the Netherlands will take on Israel, Portugal and Belgium at the 2007 UEFA European Under-21 Championship finals following today's draw in Arnhem.

Competitive pools
The Jong Oranje, the only seeded nation and winners of last season's tournament in Portugal, were pitted against first-time qualifiers Israel as well as perennial challengers Portugal and their neighbours Belgium in Group A. The Group B lineup brings together the Czech Republic, England, Serbia and Italy in a tough-looking section. The draw was conducted by former Netherlands captain Frank de Boer and AFC Ajax striker Klaas Jan Huntelaar in tandem with UEFA professional football director Giorgio Marchetti.

Schedule
The action begins on Sunday 10 June, with all eight teams playing each of the other three sides in their section. The top two in each group will advance to the semi-finals, scheduled to take place in Heerenveen and Arnhem on Wednesday 20 June. Should a play-off be needed to decide the fourth qualifier for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing - in the event of England reaching the semis - it will be staged the following day in Nijmegen. The tournament then concludes at the 20,000-capacity Euroborg Stadion in Groningen on Saturday 23 June.

2007 UEFA European Under-21 Championship
10 June - 23 June
Group A
1 Netherlands
2 Israel
3 Portugal
4 Belgium

Group B
1 Czech Republic
2 England
3 Serbia
4 Italy

U21:Italian will take on Czech, England & Serbia

2006-11-24T16:34:00.000Z

Hosts and holders the Netherlands will take on Israel, Portugal and Belgium at the 2007 UEFA European Under-21 Championship finals following today's draw in Arnhem.

2007 UEFA European Under-21 Championship
10 June - 23 June
Group A
1 Netherlands
2 Israel
3 Portugal
4 Belgium

Group B
1 Czech Republic
2 England
3 Serbia
4 Italy

Photos:171106 Newcastle Training

2006-11-17T18:35:00.000Z

Photos:Watford v Newcastle

2006-11-07T18:33:00.000Z

Photos:Newcastle 0 Sheffield 1

2006-11-04T11:34:00.000Z

Photos:Newcastle 0 Charlton 0

2006-10-29T19:15:00.000Z

Roeder praise for stand-in striker

2006-10-29T14:22:00.000Z

By Paul Tully

GLENN Roeder handed out praise to his two stand-in striker Giuseppe Rossi and Damien Duff - despite their failure to hit the target against Charlton Athletic at St. James' Park.

With the three main forwards all injured, loanee Rossi and winger Duff led the line and Roeder said: "I asked Damien Duff to play in an unfamiliar striking role. He is a fantastic professional to work with - you can ask him to play anywhere and he will say `yes' with a smile on his face.

"He's played wide right, wide left, and as a striker today. We started the game with one natural striker, and as well as young Rossi played, it's an awful big ask for a 19-year-old to lead the line for Newcastle United.

"I thought he did it really well until he tired in the last 10 or 15 minutes, but I left him on because if a chance fell his way he would know what to do with it."Duff was denied a goalscoring chance when Charlton defender Soulemayne Diawara clipped his heels on the edge of the box after 28 minutes, though no foul was given by referee Mike Dean.

And Roeder said: "Damien was clean through then clipped and brought down. Why would Damien want to fall over when he was in on the keeper?"

Newcastle 0 Charlton 0

2006-10-28T19:35:00.000+01:00

Charlton produced an excellent defensive display to claim a point on their travels at Newcastle.

The Addicks started the game rooted to the foot of the table, but they did not look a side short on confidence as they matched Newcastle throughout.

Newcastle had chances to claim victory, but they were wasteful in front of goal on more than one occasion and the final whistle was again met with a chorus of boos at St James' Park.

The visitors may not have improved their position on Saturday, but they must surely have increased belief that they can climb away from trouble.

Charlton did not start the game like a side rooted to the foot of the table as Darren Bent headed just over the bar early on.

Newcastle started the game without strikers Shola Ameobi and Obafemi Martins, but this handed a Premiership bow to Giuseppe Rossi and he was involved inside the first two minutes as he collided in the area with Addicks keeper Scott Carson.

Scott Parker has relished being handed the Newcastle captaincy and he went within a whisker of breaking the deadlock against his former club as his dipping volley drifted just wide of Carson's right-hand post.

Damien Duff was asked to play off Rossi in attack, but the Irishman contrived to thwart his partner on 15 minutes as he ran across the path of the teenager's shot and deflected the effort wide of goal.

Dennis Rommedahl raised the tempo for Charlton on 27 minutes when skipping past Celestine Babayaro and delivering a cross which was collected under pressure by Harper.

The St James' Park crowd were brought to their feet on the half hour as Duff dashed clear before tumbling in the box under pressure from Souleymane Diawara, but the penalty appeals were waved away by Mike Dean and replays proved the official to be correct.

Newcastle appeared a lot more confident than in recent Premiership outings and Rossi was almost rewarded for some tenacious play when crashing a volley against the bar, having refused to allow Talal El Karkouri to shepherd the ball out of play.

The Magpies were the first to threaten after the break and Carson had to be alert to clasp a shot from Duff who did well to wriggle free from the attentions of Diawara.

Chances were traded at the start of the second half, as Andy Reid tested the handling of Harper with a neat curler, while Parker fired a rising drive just over the bar from 35 yards.

Duff carried a real threat at the start of the second half, but on three occasions he failed to take advantage of decent chances - each time shooting tamely with his weaker right foot.

Newcastle have so often contributed to their own downfall and Titus Bramble's slip 30 yards from goal let in Darren Bent, but the England striker lashed wildly over the bar seemingly unaware that he had acres of space to set himself.

Rossi was extremely bright throughout and he came close to lifting the mood on Tyneside 11 minutes from time when firing a free kick just over the crossbar.

Charlton were restricted to shots from distance in the second half and one such effort almost dealt a killer blow to The Magpies. Rommedahl appeared to have run out of space when he shifted play to Bryan Hughes and his neat volley flew just wide.

Charles N'Zogbia was denied late in the day by a diving save from Carson, as Newcastle failed to build on their midweek Carling Cup heroics.

Video:Newcastle v Portsmouth

2006-10-28T14:17:00.000+01:00

Rossi's first goal for Newcastle United

Photos:271006 Newcastle Training

2006-10-27T14:14:00.000+01:00

Roeder backs Rossi to shine

2006-10-27T14:07:00.000+01:00

Newcastle chief Glenn Roeder has suggested that Giuseppe Rossi did enough against Portsmouth in midweek to earn an extended run in the team.

The youngster arrived on loan from Manchester United in the summer, but it was only on Wednesday that he secured his first start in Magpies colours.

Rossi did not disappoint as he showed genuine quality and capped his display with a goal in the 3-0 success.

Roeder was impressed with the youngster and expects him to flourish on Tyneside.

"He has had to be patient," Roeder said on Sky Sports News. "But when the opportunity came on Wednesday he took it with both hands.

"It was not just his goal, the other things he brought to the team with his display will guarantee him lots of games before he has to return to Manchester United on 31st of December."

Charlton lie in wait for Roeder's charges on Saturday, live on PremPlus, and the Magpies chief is expecting The Addicks to provide a tough examination.

"Iain Dowie will set out his team in a manner, I will think, not to be beaten," stated Roeder.

"I have noticed a slight change in his tactics recently and I am expecting a tough game.

"We have got to be up for the challenge and go and win the game."

Italians and Czechs to get friendly

2006-10-25T11:39:00.000+01:00

UEFA European Under-21 Championship finalists Italy and the Czech Republic will have an early chance to get acquainted before next month's finals draw in Arnhem after agreeing to meet in a friendly in Frosinone on 14 November.

Roeder praises Rossi

2006-10-25T10:40:00.000+01:00

GLENN Roeder saluted the performance of Giuseppe Rossi after the loan striker marked his first Newcastle United start with a goal in the 3-0 Carling Cup victory over Portsmouth at St. James' Park.

Rossi, born in New Jersey but an Italian U21 international, has waited patiently for a full 90 minutes after arriving at St. James' Park on a temporary basis from Manchester United at the end of the August transfer window.

Toon boss Roeder gave Rossi his chance for the visit of Pompey - and he didn't disappoint, opening the scoring with a crisp finish at the Gallowgate End past David James in the 48th minute.

Roeder raved: "That was Giuseppe's first start in our black and white and I thought the shirt and colours suited him very well.

"I'm pretty sure he's going to play lots of times between now and the end of December. He wants that for himself, and that's why Sir Alex Ferguson let him come here in the first place - so he could get games.

"We're very grateful to have him. He's a magnificent young man to have around the training ground and he's someone who has made a big impression on the staff and his team-mates.

"He's been very patient waiting for his opportunity and when it's come along he has taken it. The way he finished his goal was very impressive to say the least.

"It was a fantastic finish, he was onto the ball so quickly that he gave David James no chance. David's one of the best goalkeepers in the Premiership but he had no chance with the shot."

As things stand Rossi will return to the Red Devils at the end of December.

Roeder added: "We have to accept that the agreement is until the last day of December, and ironically we have Manchester United here on January 1.

"It could become an interesting situation as the better he plays here the more likely Sir Alex will want him back, and we have to accept that.

"But there are a lot of games between now and December and he'll play a lot of football for us, that is for sure."

Newcastle 3 Portsmouth 0

2006-10-25T10:28:00.000+01:00

Rossi scores his first for Magpies
Magpies ease past Pompey

Newcastle defied the elements to snap their poor run with a 3-0 victory over Portsmouth in the Carling Cup.
Torrential rain had put the game in doubt but, despite a slow start, The Magpies sloshed through the puddles to book their place in the fourth round.
Loan star Giuseppe Rossi marked his full debut with the opener and a brace from Nolberto Solano made the game safe, while the return of Kieron Dyer put some icing on the cake for Newcastle.
The conditions were hardly conducive to attractive football, although Pompey settled the better and a long-range drive from Sean Davis almost embarrassed Steve Harper.
Harper was the busier of the two keepers in the first half and he had to be alert to make a low save after David Thompson had burrowed his way into the box.
The home side's best chance of the first half fell to Obafemi Martins who latched onto a long ball which eluded Linvoy Primus, but his lob over David James landed on the roof of the net.
Andy Cole should have netted against his former cub ten minutes before the interval. The veteran striker dashed down the middle but, with the conditions seemingly playing on his mind, he took a heavy touch and this allowed Harper to smother.
Martins did not reappear for the second half and the introduction of Damien Duff prompted The Magpies to emerge from their slumber.
Glenn Roeder's side looked much sharper and they were in front within three minutes of the restart. The ball fell to Rossi following a scramble in the box and the youngster showed exactly why Sir Alex Ferguson rates him so highly with a neat turn and finish.
The goal boosted Newcastle's confidence and they extended their lead five minutes later as Solano stooped low to head home a deep cross from Duff.
The biggest cheer of the night was reserved for the introduction of Dyer and the returning star went within a whisker of marking his seasonal bow with a goal, but his shot fizzed just wide of the far post.
Pompey looked devoid of ideas, but they were almost thrown a lifeline 12 minutes from time as Harper got himself caught under a long ball and was fortunate to tip the effort over the bar.
After Pompey had a goal chalked off for an infringement, Newcastle put some gloss on the scoreline when Solano bundled home from close range after a ball into the box from James Milner had not been cleared by Pompey.

Photos: Newcastle 3 Portsmouth 0

2006-10-25T10:25:00.000+01:00

Rossi set for first start

2006-10-24T16:48:00.000+01:00

On-loan striker Giuseppe Rossi will finally make his first start for Newcaslte in the Carling Cup on Portsmouth.

Magpies boss Glenn Roeder has so far been unwilling to throw the 19-year-old Italian into a struggling side, but sees the League Cup as the perfect opportunity for Rossi to prove himself.

"I am prepared to say that Giuseppe will start the game," he told Newcastle's official website. "I'm looking forward to seeing him play.

"He trains exceptionally well and he has fitted into the squad in the manner that you would expect from a young player. The squad have taken to him, he is a fantastic character and in training he has shown a terrific amount of ability, so I am looking forward to seeing him out there."

Ironically, the Carling Cup was one tournament Rossi was virtually guaranteed to play had he stayed at Old Trafford. But, despite his lack of chances, United staff have maintained that fighting for a place at St James' Park will stand him in good stead when he returns to Manchester in January.

"I would have liked to have played him a bit more," added Roeder. "But a combination of the way games have been going and some of the results we have had has meant that I haven't been able to include him as much as I'd have liked. But Wednesday night is an opportunity for him, and I'm sure he is looking forward to it."

U21: Seedings announced

2006-10-24T16:07:00.000+01:00

The seedings for the 2007 UEFA European Under-21 Championship draw have been revealed, with the eight finalists due to learn their fate at the City Hall in Arnhem a month today.

Evening draw
The action will get under way at 18.15CET, and will see hosts and holders the Netherlands join play-off victors Belgium, Czech Republic, England, Israel, Italy, Portugal and Serbia in being divided into two groups of four teams. The Dutch have been automatically assigned position A1, and are joined in pot 1 by neighbours Belgium, the Czech Republic and England - all of whom are seeded due to having the best coefficients from qualifying. The remaining four nations will be in pot 2.

Four venues
Arnhem is one of four venues, along with Heerenveen, Groningen and Nijmegen, selected to host matches during the tournament. Group games will provisionally be played between 10 and 17 June next year, with Heerenveen and Arnhem each staging a semi-final three days after that. The final will be on Saturday 23 June at FC Groningen's 20,000-capacity Euroborg.

2007 UEFA European Under-21 Championship
Coefficient ranking (excluding the Netherlands)
Teams Matches/
Points Coefficient AGS
Belgium 4/10 2.5 2.5
Czech Republic 4/10 2.5 1.5
England 4/10 2.5 1.5
Italy 4/10 2.5 1
Portugal 4/9 2.25 n/a
Serbia 4/9 2.25 n/a
Israel 4/8 2.00 n/a

AGS: Average goals scored per play-off match. For example, Belgium drew 1-1 against Bulgaria and beat them 4-1 - five goals divided by two games equals an AGS of 2.5.

Photos:201008 Newcastle Traning

2006-10-20T04:45:00.000+01:00

Photos:131006 Newcastle Traning

2006-10-13T12:11:00.000+01:00

U21:Final eight for Netherlands confirmed

2006-10-12T16:25:00.000+01:00

Belgium and Israel claimed the two remaining places at the 2007 UEFA European Under-21 Championship with respective play-off victories against Bulgaria and France tonight to bring the qualifying campaign to a close.

Netherlands host
They join the Czech Republic, England, Italy, Portugal and Serbia, who all booked their spots with play-off victories 24 hours earlier, as well as the Netherlands, the host nation, in next summer's eight-team tournament. The Dutch accepted the offer of hosting the tournament after winning the 2006 UEFA European Under-21 Championship in Portugal last summer.

Past champions
Of the eight finalists, the Czech Republic, England, Italy and the Netherlands are all past champions. Serbia take part as an independent nation for the first time after enjoying success alongside their neighbours Montenegro in recent years, reaching the final in 2004 and the semi-finals last summer. Including Serbia, four of this year's eight finalists also featured in Portugal last summer, with the Czech Republic, England, Israel and Belgium the new faces for 2007.

Arnhem draw
The draw for the final tournament will be held at the City Hall in Arnhem at 18.00CET on 24 November when the eight teams will be divided into two groups of four. Arnhem is one of four venues, along with Heerenveen, Groningen and Nijmegen, selected to host matches during the tournament. Group games will provisionally be played between 10 and 17 June next year, with Heerenveen and Arnhem each staging a semi-final three days after that.
Groningen finalThe final will be on Saturday 23 June at FC Groningen's 20,000-capacity Euroborg. The biennal tournament has been moved to odd years to raise its profile and prevent it clashing with the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship.

Final Eight:
Netherlands
Belgium
Czech Republic
England
Italy
Portugal
Serbia

U21:Casiraghi riding Italian wave

2006-10-11T16:23:00.000+01:00

Coach Pierluigi Casiraghi said "it doesn't get much better than this" after his Italy side reached the UEFA European Under-21 Championship finals.

Dramatic winThe former Juventus and S.S. Lazio striker, who made 44 appearances for Italy's senior team, led his side to a dramatic 2-1 win against Spain in Palencia last night to make up for a goalless draw in the first leg of the tie on Friday, and was delighted to have booked the Azzurrini's place in next summer's finals in the Netherlands.

'No mistakes'"It doesn't get much better than this," said the 37-year-old, who replaced Claudio Gentile as coach back in July. "It was not an easy game and it was not easy to win in a stadium with such a lively atmosphere. The lads, however, were great and made no mistakes for the whole 90 minutes. They have been working very hard during the week. I warned them that it would be a difficult match especially from the mental point of view and they understood completely which approach they had to use."

Sad for SpainWith the two sides locked together so long at 0-0 in the course of the tie, Casiraghi expressed sympathy for Spain, saying: "Over the course of the 180 minutes our qualification was well deserved but honestly I'm very sad for Spain. Italy and Spain both deserved to play in the finals." With the truncated qualifying campaign now at an end, the coach said he was now looking forward to taking time to work with his team for their trip to the Netherlands. "So far we have had to do everything in a rush because we have had so many important games in quick succession, but now we can calm down a bit a start to work for the finals," he said.

U21: Spain 1 Italy 2

2006-10-10T02:19:00.000+01:00

U21: Super Azzurrini conquer Spain

Stunning goals from Giorgio Chiellini and Riccardo Montolivo sealed Italy’s 2-1 win in Spain to reach the Euro Under-21 Championships.

Italy knew they had to score at least a goal in Palencia to qualify for the tournament after Friday’s 0-0 draw.

Casiraghi made just one change, introducing Graziano Pelle for Nicola Pozzi, while the Spaniards fielded the same line-up that played in Modena.

Gianluca Curci had to make a difficult save in the opening 90 seconds, palming away a Kepa header, then the Spanish striker nodded another effort off target.

Italy were under pressure early on, but Alessandro Rosina went on a marauding run down the right before his shot was charged down.

It was the Azzurrini who broke through in truly spectacular circumstances. Giorgio Chiellini gathered a bouncing ball from 20 metres and took advantage of the momentum, striking an incredible half-volley with the outside of his left foot so that it swung over the goalkeeper, dipping into the far top corner.

Spain’s confidence was hit hard and Italy doubled their lead with another excellent strike. Raffaele Palladino dribbled between two players down the left flank and chipped his cross for a splendid Riccardo Montolivo right-foot volley under the bar. It was a familiar finish to Marco Van Basten’s in the 1988 European Championships.

After the break Curci blocked a Gavilan angled drive, then the same player found space on the counter-attack, but slashed his shot under pressure from Montolivo.

The home side got back into the running with substitute Roberto Soldado, who got in front of his marker to nod in Gavilan’s cross. It was the first goal Italy had conceded in 435 minutes of football.

Rosina almost put the result beyond doubt soon after, taking advantage of a defensive mix-up on Chiellini’s cross, but the shot was charged down from point-blank range. Simone Padoin of Vicenza replaced Palladino to strengthen the midfield.

Soldado had penalty appeals rejected for his contact with Chiellini, while at the other end Padoin nodded Rosina’s cross inches past the upright.

Andrea Lazzari came on for Rosina in the closing stages and Potenza performed a crucial tackle on Gavilan. Cagliari's Francesco Pisano was the final substitute in this prestigious 2-1 away victory, but there was a scuffle in stoppages as temperatures rose in Palencia, leading to Javier Flano Melli's dismissal.

The European Under-21 Championships will be played in Holland from June 10 to 23, 2007.

Spain 1-2 Italy (1-2 on agg)
Scorers: Chiellini 25 (I), Montolivo 33 (I), Soldado 59 (S)
Spain U21: Moyà; Flano Melli, Pique, Albiol, Garrido; Zapater, Garcia (De La Red 46); Ariz Mendi (Jurado 54), Silva, Gavilan; Kepa (Soldado 46)
Italy U21: Curci; Potenza, Mantovani, Andreolli, Chiellini; Nocerino, Aquilani (Pisano 89); Rosina (Lazzari 78), Montolivo, Palladino (Padoin 67); Pellè
Ref: Zauner (Aus)
Sent off: Flano Melli 94 (S)

U21:Italy 0 Spain 0 Match Report

2006-10-07T03:39:00.000+01:00

Solid defending and a faultless performance from RCD Mallorca goalkeeper Miguel Ángel Moyà helped Spain to earn a precious goalless draw against Italy in Modena in the first leg of their UEFA European Under-21 Championship play-off.

Cagey start
In a balanced first half both sides showed their respect for each other as a cagey opening failed to produce any serious goalscoring opportunities. Five-time champions Italy had the better of possession but were reluctant to risk all in attack while their opponents, twice previous winners themselves, remained comfortable in defence.

Italy chances
The Azzurrini were more adventurous as the first half wore on however. Playmaker Riccardo Montolivo, who scored both of Italy's goals in the group stage, tried his luck with a low right-foot shot from 25 meters but the ball whistled just wide of Moyà's right post. Meanwhile, Antonio Nocerino also went close just before the break, heading over the bar from Alessandro Rosina's free-kick.

Rosina unlucky
Italy started the second-half in more attacking fashion and went close to breaking the deadlock when Rosina dribbled past two opponents and forced Moyà to dive to his left to deflect a left-foot shot from outside the penalty box past the post. Then Spain responded with an attack of their own as Kepa Blanco's right-foot drive was fisted away in the 70th minute by goalkeeper Giancluca Curcit.

Moyà heroics
With ten minutes to play Italy saw another good opportunity pass them by when second-half substitute Giuseppe Rossi forced Moyà into a superb save, the Mallorca goalkeeper diving to his right and managing to palm the left-foot shot around the post. Moyà was then called into action again a minute from time when he deflected a close range header by defender Marco Andreolli over the bar. It was from the resulting corner that Italy missed perhaps their best chance of taking a lead into next Tuesday's second leg though as Graziano Pellè fired wide a rebound after Moyà could only parry a long-range effort from Montolivo into his path.

U21:Italy 0 Spain 0

2006-10-06T04:33:00.000+01:00

U21: Azzurrini fire Spanish blanks

Italy’s chances of reaching the European Under-21 Championships hang in the balance after wasteful finishing in the 0-0 draw with Spain.

The first leg of the battle to enter May’s European Championships was played at Modena’s Stadio Braglia and Coach Casiraghi put his faith in Raffaele Palladino and Nicola Pozzi, leaving Newcastle United starlet Giuseppe Rossi on the bench.

Alberto Aquilani has an early shot charged down and Juventus man Giorgio Chiellini nodded an Alessandro Rosina free kick off target early on. Spain also threatened with Kepa prodding Gavillan’s corner kick past the near post.

Fiorentina’s Riccardo Montolivo scored both goals in qualifying and went close to a third, his long-range piledriver skimming the upright.

The Azzurrini had the better of the first half and another Rosina set-piece was turned over by an Aquilani header. There was some chaotic defending in the Italy area soon after, but the move was terminated by a Spanish handling offence.

Palladino combined with Pozzi to send the Juventus man clear, but the Spanish goalkeeper was able to intercept at the last second.

After the break, a fierce Aquilani free kick tested the Spanish goalkeeper, who took two attempts to get it under control.

Premiership man Rossi was introduced for Palladino and immediately seemed lively. Torino midfielder Rosina had a screamer palmed away by Moya at the near post.

The Azzurrini were angry when Kepa seemed to handle the ball, but play continued and he forced a good save out of Gianluca Curci.

Graziano Pellé came on for Pozzi and was cut off by a Spanish defender as he rushed into the area.

Rossi created the best chance of the game so far after 80 minutes, skipping past defenders on the edge of the area and his shot was parried with some difficulty by Moya. Aquilani was unable to latch on to the loose ball before it was cleared.

Andrea Lazzari of Atalanta was the final substitute, but Italy squandered two glorious opportunities in stoppages.

First Rossi’s corner kick was met by an Aquilani free header that Moya acrobatically tipped out from under the crossbar. Then a long-range Montolivo effort was parried into the path of Pelle', only for the substitute to incredibly thump the upright from six yards.

Casiraghi’s men went surging forward again in the final seconds with Rossi’s strike from an acute angle deflected out off goalkeeper Moya’s knee.

The second leg against Spain will be played on October 10 at the Nueva Balestera Stadium in Palencia.

The winners will qualify for the final phase of the tournament, which will take place from June 10 to June 23 in the Netherlands. The hosts have already qualified.

Italy 0-0 Spain
Italy U21: Curci, Potenza, Andreolli, Mantovani, Chiellini, Padoin, Aquilani, Rosina (Lazzari 83), Montolivo, Palladino (Rossi 56), Pozzi (Pellé 68)
Spain U21: Moya, Flaño, Melli, Albiol, Garrido, Zapater, Arizmendi (Cazorla 76), Raúl García, Silva (Jurado 71), Gavilán, Kepa
Ref: Ceferin (Slo)

Rossi 'will get chance'

2006-10-04T08:05:00.000+01:00

Glenn Roeder is adamant he has received no complaints from Sir Alex Ferguson about Giuseppe Rossi’s lack of starts at Newcastle this season, and says the teenage striker will get plenty of chances in the first team.

Sir Alex, who initially planned to keep Rossi at Old Trafford this season, allowed the Italian Under-21 international to go on loan until 1 January after the striker said that he wanted first team football to aid his progression towards being a regular in the United side.

Rossi was in the stands for the game at Old Trafford as he could not play due to Premier League rules. He has made three substitute appearances for the Magpies and Roeder says there will be more opportunities.

"Giuseppe Rossi has made a big impression at the club,” he said in an interview you can watch in MUTV Online's Latest News. "He's been here for a month and he's been on a few times. He couldn't play in the European games, which I accept, and he couldn't be involved against United. That leaves four games he could have been involved in and he has played in three.

"I'm sure that between now and when he returns to Manchester United on January 1 he will have had plenty of starts."

Roeder also rejected the notion that Rossi and Obafemi Martins are incompatible as a partnership because of the lack of aerial prowess.

"I think we could pair the two of them together,” he added. “At home, where we are expected to make more of the running, it couldwork.

“Giuseppe is so good at dropping off to get hold of the ball and he knows what's going on around him, and Oba Martins could use his speed to make some clever runs where Guiseppe would be able to slide him in. Physically, they wouldn't be a big partnership but there is definitely the potential for the two of them to play together."

As well as the interview with Glenn Roeder, you can also watch action from United's 2-0 victory over Newcastle in the Match Highlights area of the video lounge. Also available to view are post-match interviews with Sir Alex Ferguson and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who fired both goals either side of half-time.

You can watch any of the clips on MUTV Online on your PC whenever you like. Annual subscriptions work out at less than 11p per day (£40 for 365 days) but if you'd like to try before you buy, you can watch selected video clips on the Freeview page.

Roeder denies Fergie rift

2006-10-03T14:34:00.000+01:00

Glenn Roeder has denied falling out with Sir Alex Ferguson over Giuseppe Rossi, with the Newcastle boss insisting the youngster can play alongside Obafemi Martins.

Red Devils chief Ferguson is eager for Rossi to secure regular playing time and reports suggest he is unhappy with developments at St James' Park.

Roeder says Ferguson has not voiced any sort of frustration and expects Rossi to figure prominently for Newcastle.

"Giuseppe Rossi has made a big impression at the club," Roeder told The Journal. "He's been here for a month and he's been on a few times.

"He couldn't play in the European games, which I accept, and he couldn't be involved at Old Trafford. That leaves four games he could have been involved in and he played in a couple.

"I'm sure that between now and when he returns to Manchester United on January 1 he will have had plenty of starts. He's made a good impression both as a player and a person."

Roeder has been keen to utilise Shola Ameobi's height alongside big-money recruit Obafemi Martins, but the Magpies chief feels the diminutive pair can form a partnership.

"I think we could pair the two of them (Rossi and Martins) together," Roeder added. "At home, where we are expected to make more of the running, it could work.

"Giuseppe is such a good footballer in terms of dropping off to get hold of the ball and he knows what's going on around him.

"Oba Martins could use his speed to make some clever runs and Giuseppe would be able to slide him in.

"Physically, they wouldn't be a big partnership but there is definitely the potential for the two of them to play together."

MUTV Video: Rossi rated by loan boss

2006-10-02T02:19:00.000+01:00

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder provides some words of encouragement to on loan youngster Giuseppe Rossi in Monday night's news clip on MUTV Online.

The United striker has made just three substitute appearances for the Toon Army since his temporary switch to the North East at the end of August. However, Roeder has still been hugely impressed by the young Italian's contribution so far.

"Giuseppe has made a big impression both as a person and a player," insisted the Toon boss. You can see more from Roeder on Rossi in the Latest News section from 7pm BST on Monday night.

You can watch action from United's 2-0 victory over Newcastle in the Match Highlights area of the video lounge. Also available to view are post-match interviews with Sir Alex Ferguson and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who fired both goals either side of half-time.

You can watch any of the clips on MUTV Online on your PC whenever you like. Annual subscriptions work out at less than 11p per day (£40 for 365 days) but if you'd like to try before you buy, you can watch selected video clips on the Freeview page.

Photos:United 2 Newcastle 0

2006-10-01T14:19:00.000+01:00

Italy U21 Squad Updated

2006-09-29T16:15:00.000+01:00

Aleandro Rosi coming up for Italy

Italy squad
Goalkeepers: Gianluca Curci (AS Roma), Emiliano Viviano (Brescia Calcio)

Defenders: Marco Andreolli (FC Internazionale Milano), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Andrea Coda (Udinese Calcio), Andrea Mantovani (AC Chievo Verona), Francesco Pisano (Cagliari Calcio), Alessadro Potenza (ACF Fiorentina), Giuseppe Scurto (AC Chievo Verona)

Midfielders: Alberto Aquilani (AS Roma), Luca Cigarini (Parma FC), Daniele Dessena (Parma FC), Andrea Lazzari (AC Cesena), Riccardo Montolivo (ACF Fiorentina), Antonio Nocerino (Piacenza FC), Simone Padoin (Vicenza Calcio), Aleandro Rosi (AS Roma), Alessandro Rosina (Torino FC)

Forwards: Raffaele Palladino (Juventus), Graziano Pellè (AC Cesena), Nicola Pozzi (Empoli FC), Giuseppe Rossi (Newcastle United FC)

Photos:270906 Newcastle training

2006-09-27T16:25:00.000+01:00

Rossi Impresses GR

2006-09-24T13:57:00.000+01:00

GLENN Roeder says he is delighted with the contribution of Giuseppe Rossi so far - and admits it's a shame he cannot be involved in Newcastle United's next two games.

The American-born Italian U21 starlet cannot figure in the Premiership game with Manchester United next Sunday as part of the rules concerning his loan move from Old Trafford.

And Rossi must also sit out Thursday's UEFA Cup tie with Levadia Tallinn at St. James' Park as the Red Devils insist he cannot be used in Europe.

Rossi replaced Obafemi Martins in the 1-1 draw with Everton at Gallowgate, and Roeder admitted: "I'm wanting to get an opportunity to start him.

"He has certainly shown enough in training to prove that he can more than hold his own in the Premiership.

"He cannot play against Levadia Tallinn in the UEFA Cup on Thursday.

"But I am looking for an opportunity to start him. And I hope that Manchester United are doing so well - but not next week - that Alex can allow him to stay here for the whole season."

Rossi can, however, play for the Magpies in the Carling Cup this season.

Photos:Newacstle 1 Everton 1

2006-09-24T07:28:00.000+01:00

Sub:80'

Rossi Gunning for Howard

2006-09-21T16:37:00.000+01:00

LOAN ace Giuseppe Rossi his hoping to get the chance to put one over on his Old Trafford colleague Tim Howard when United meet Everton on Saturday.

While Rossi has moved to Gallowgate on loan until January, goalkeeper Howard has been farmed out to Goodison Park on a season-long deal by Sir Alex Ferguson.

And having come off the bench at Anfield on Wednesday, Rossi is on another Mersey mission against the Toffees on Sunday.

Rossi said: "I know Tim Howard very well.

"I played with him last season at Manchester United.

"Like myself, he is out on loan and it will be nice to see him again, but I will be trying my best to beat him as soon as the whistle goes."

The Italian under-21 international will face a spell on the sidelines after Sunday's game, as he is ineligible to play in the UEFA Cup tie with Levadia Tallin and is also unable to face his part club when United get back into league action at Old Trafford next weekend.

He added: "Hopefully I will be looking to get a start, or some more time on the pitch, against Everton.

"It is always good to get some kind of run in the team. I just want to play football like any other player.

"I hope if I do get the chance against Everton I can do my best and perhaps get on the scoresheet."

"We did not go into the Liverpool game as favourites, but we did go there to at least go there and try to get a point.

"The first half was a bit disappointing for us because we did not play as well as we know we can.

"In the second half we looked much stronger and created lots of chances and there were also a couple of decent shouts for a penalty for us.

"In the second half we came out strong and I think at the moment we just need a bit of luck which will be hoping to get against Everton.

"We put everything into Liverpool but the result went the wrong way for us."

Rossi vows to make OT return

2006-09-20T16:59:00.000+01:00

Giuseppe Rossi has ruled out a permanent move to Newcastle, insisting his future lies at Old Trafford.

The 19-year-old striker made his Magpies debut as a substitute in the 2-1 home defeat to Fulham ten days ago.

Rossi, who will remain on loan in the North-east until 1 January, revealed recently that he may extend his stay with the Toon Army. But the Italian U21 international insists securing a permanent switch is not an option.

"A permanent move to Newcastle is not on my mind at all," he declared. "The only thing in my mind is to play for United. The important thing now is to do well for Newcastle and give 100 per cent here, then go back stronger to Old Trafford.

"Loan spells are usually beneficial, they have been for a few players at United and I hope the same will apply to me."

Rossi will be unavailable for Newcastle when Glenn Roeder's side visit Old Trafford on 1 October as Premier League rules state loaned players cannot play against their own club.

Photos:Liverpool 2 Newcastle 0

2006-09-20T16:48:00.000+01:00

Photos:150906 Newcastle Training

2006-09-15T19:22:00.000+01:00

U21 Fixtures & Venue Confirmed

2006-09-15T19:10:00.000+01:00

First leg Date, local kick-off time, venue
Serbia v Sweden 6/10, 15.00, Novi Sad
Czech Republic v
Bosnia-Herzegovina 6/10, 17.30, Jablonec nad Nisou
Russia v Portugal 6/10, 18.00, Moscow
England v Germany 6/10, 20.00, Coventry
Italy v Spain 6/10, 21.00, Modena
Belgium v Bulgaria 7/10, 18.00, Roeselare
France v Israel 7/10, 21.00, Caen

Second leg Date, kick-off time, venue
Bosnia-Herzegovina v Czech Republic 10/10, 17.00, Sarajevo
Sweden v Serbia 10/10, 19.15, Trollhatten (tbc)
Germany v England 10/10, 20.15, Leverkusen
Spain v Italy 10/10, 20.30, Palencia
Portugal v Russia 10/10, tbc, tbc
Israel v France 11/10, 19.30, Herzelia (tbc)
Bulgaria v Belgium 11/10, tbc, tbc

Photos:130906 Newcastle Training

2006-09-13T18:37:00.000+01:00

Video:Interview for Newcastle

2006-09-10T07:34:00.000+01:00

Photos:Newcastle 1 Fulham 2

2006-09-09T13:09:00.000+01:00

Italy U21 Squad Updated

2006-09-08T13:44:00.000+01:00

Goalkeepers
Andrea Consigli
Gianluca Curci
Emiliano Viviano

Defenders
Marco Andreolli
Giorgio Chiellini
Andrea Coda
Hernán Dellafiore
Damiano Ferronetti
Andrea Mantovani
Francesco Pisano
Alessandro Potenza

Midfielders
Alberto Aquilani
Luca Cigarini
Marino Defendi
Andrea Lazzari
Francesco Lodi
Riccardo Montolivo
Piermario Morosini
Antonio Nocerino
Simone Padoin
Alessandro Rosina

Forwards
Giampaolo Pazzini
Nicola Pozzi
Giuseppe Rossi

Spain U21 Squad:
Goalkeepers
Antonio Adán
Iván Cuéllar

Defenders
Raúl Albiol
Melli
Javier Flaño
Javier Garrido
Gerard Piqué
José Enrique

Midfielders
Rubén de la Red
Raúl García
Jaime Gavilán
José Manuel Jurado
Alberto Zapater

Forwards
Kepa Blanco
Silva
Roberto Soldado
Juanfran

Rossi will face Pique in U21 Championship

2006-09-08T13:39:00.000+01:00

Today's draw for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship play-offs in Nyon threw up some fascinating ties, not least Italy against Spain and England versus Germany.

Five-time winners
The draw saw the seven seeded teams paired with seven unseeded nations by UEFA's director of professional football, Giorgio Marchetti, in Nyon. Despite failing to make it beyond the group stage at the 2006 finals in Portugal, Italy have an outstanding pedigree in this competition having lifted the trophy five times, most recently in 2004. Spain have twice been champions, as have England whose last success came in 1984 against West Germany.

Past masters
The 2002 winners the Czech Republic face Bosnia-Herzegovina, while the 1988 title-winners France drew Israel. Serbia were paired with Sweden, Russia meet the top seeds Portugal and Belgium tackle Bulgaria in two-legged matches scheduled for 7/8 and 10/11 October.

Final in Groningen
The seven victors from these ties will join the hosts and title-holders, the Netherlands, in the hat for the final tournament at the City Hall in Arnhem - one of four finals venues along with Heerenveen, Groningen and Nijmegen - starting at 18.00CET on 24 November. Group matches will provisionally be played between 10 and 17 June 2007, with Heerenveen and Arnhem staging a semi-final apiece three days later. The final will be on Saturday 23 June at FC Groningen's 20,000-capacity Euroborg.

Olympic qualification
The finals will also serve as a qualifying event for the 2008 Olympic football tournament, with four European teams set to progress to China.

European Under-21 Championship
Play-off draw
Serbia v Sweden
Czech Republic v Bosnia-Herzegovina
Russia v Portugal
France v Israel
England v Germany
Italy v Spain
Belgium v Bulgaria

Photos:060908 Newcastle Traning

2006-09-08T13:13:00.000+01:00

Roeder's Rossi revelations

2006-09-08T12:54:00.000+01:00

Glenn Roeder has revealed it is a dream come true to have Manchester United forward Giuseppe Rossi at Newcastle United.

The hotly-tipped youngster signed a surprise late deal to move to St James' Park on loan until the turn of the year, and he has come in as cover for injured England striker Michael Owen.

His growing reputation preceded him in the North East and Roeder is delighted to have nabbed the 19-year-old, dubbed Pepe, in a deal he feared would never happen.

"I heard a possibility that we could get Pepe, but I wasn't sure whether to even ring Sir Alex Ferguson as I know how highly he rates him," Roeder told Sky Sports News.

"Nevertheless I took the chance and gave him a call and he said he would give it some consideration.

"He slept on it and he must have had a good night's sleep because the next morning he said Pepe could come up to us until January 1.

"It shows how highly Alex rates him but who knows, if things go well for Pepe and Man United are doing well and Alex doesn't need him back then fingers crossed we might be able to keep him for the whole season."

The boss has also offered the Three Lions' and St James' faithful a much needed boost on hit-man Owen, after his latest surgery.

"The news is good, Dr Steadman was pleased with the work he did on his knee and Michael himself can now see the light at the end of the tunnel," Roeder added.

"It is only a little bit of light but he can see that he is on for playing, he knows that is long-term but in his own mind he is up for the long haul of working back to full fitness."

Rossi meanwhile, was persistently linked with a loan move to The Championship with West Bromwich Albion over the summer, but he always maintained his desire to earn experience in the top flight, and he is ecstatic to have teamed up with The Magpies.

"Newcastle is a great club with great players and I just can't wait to start playing," Rossi added.

"My main target was to play, and it is just great to be here with a great club and I just hope to gain as much experience as I can."

The American-born Italian is now expected to make his Newcastle debut in The Premiership game at home to Fulham on Saturday.

Roeder reveals Shola hunger

2006-09-07T12:59:00.000+01:00

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder has revealed that Shola Ameobi is battling to be fit to partner Obafemi Martins against Fulham at the weekend.

Both strikers have been carrying knocks, but Martins seems set to win his race and Roeder claims Ameobi is champing at the bit to do likewise.

Ameobi has been carrying a hip complaint for over a year, but the international break has handed him a glimmer of light and Roeder feels he will seize the chance.

"If Shola Ameobi manages to climb off the treatment table on Saturday, he will be making a heck of a statement as to how much he wants to play for Newcastle United," Roeder told the club's website.

"He is desperate to get back into the team and form a partnership with Oba Martins, and this is something he is looking forward to.

"Whether that happens on Saturday, I don't know, but what I do know is that at the start of the week, he had absolutely no chance."

Giuseppe Rossi has added to Newcastle's attacking options, but Roeder is unlikely to rush the Manchester United loanee into action.

"Seppe has been away with the Italian Under-21 squad this week and been involved in the two games with Iceland and Austria," added Roeder.

"He has since been back to Manchester to pick up his gear, but he is here now and he will train with us today and tomorrow.

"We will get to know him and he will get to know us and then we will decide about Saturday.

"Although he never said anything directly to me, I know that Sir Alex Ferguson trusts me to look after the boy - and don't forget, he is still only 19."

Photos:060906 Newcastle Traning

2006-09-06T13:16:00.000+01:00

Photos:Rossi visits St. James Park

2006-09-06T13:12:00.000+01:00

Rooney hails Rossi quality

2006-09-06T12:56:00.000+01:00

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has tipped Giuseppe Rossi to take The Premiership by storm.

The 19-year-old completed a loan move to Newcastle last week to the surprise of many United fans, who felt he was on the verge of breaking into their first team.

Rooney feels that Rossi will make a success of his four-month stint at St James' Park, and praised the Italian's extraordinary goalscoring ability.

"Giuseppe is a great player and one to watch out for," hailed the England ace.

"I see him every day in training and he has really impressed me. His touch, feel of the ball and awareness are nothing short of brilliant.

"He is perhaps the best finisher at Manchester United and he will only get better."

Rooney is confident that Rossi will return to Old Trafford an improved player after consulting two men with first-hand experience of Magpies boss Glenn Roeder's talent for nurturing youngsters.

"I have talked to the likes of Michael Carrick and Joe Cole about the way Glenn Roeder brought them through at West Ham and the feeling at Old Trafford is that Giuseppe is in good hands with Newcastle," Rooney explained.

Rossi reaches play-offs

2006-09-06T06:29:00.000+01:00

Giuseppe Rossi helped Italy's Under-21s reach the European Championship play-offs with victory over Austria on Tuesday night.

The Azzurrini sealed a narrow 1-0 win over the Austrians courtesy of a goal from Fiorentina midfielder Riccardo Montolivo seven minutes from time.

Rossi, who recently joined Newcastle on a four-month loan deal, impressed early on in the match but tired towards the end, and was replaced by Andrea Lazzari shortly before Montolivo struck his winner with a powerful low drive.

Italy now go into the play-offs in October to qualify for the final tournament in June 2007.

The 19-year-old striker will return to England later this week and join up with his new team-mates at St James Park. He could make his Magpies debut on Saturday as Glenn Roeder's side take on Fulham in the Premiership.

Italy U21 1 Austria U21 0

2006-09-05T23:56:00.000+01:00

U21: Montolivo books play-off spot

Riccardo Montolivo’s late strike secured Italy’s spot in the European Under-21 Championship play-offs after a 1-0 win over Austria.

Newcastle United starlet Giuseppe Rossi was given his first start for his country, as they switched to the 4-3-3 system in the wake of Giampaolo Pazzini’s injury and the suspension for Antonio Nocerino.

All the Azzurrini required from this match was a point to reach the play-offs for the European Championships following their 1-0 victory in Iceland on Friday, but it was Austria who had the first real chance with Thonhofer inspiring a good move before Kienast under-hit his lob over the goalkeeper.

Italy went far closer soon after, as Pelle’s header from an Alessandro Rosina cross was tipped over the bar. From the resulting corner, Riccardo Montolivo’s fierce effort on the bounce was pushed wide.

Alberto Aquilani duetted with the impressive Torino midfielder Rosina for the Roma man to curl off target, but goalkeeper Gianluca Curci miss-timed his run to clear from Harnik and the Austrian fired wide of the open goal.

The home side made a similar mistake on the half-hour mark, as Aquilani tried to set up Rosina rather than shoot when faced with Almer.

After the break, new Napoli signing Garics sparked a fine team move for Austria, although Thonhofer couldn’t quite finish it off. Premiership representative Rossi was bright and eager, but too often his finishing was weak and he made way for Atalanta’s Andrea Lazzari.

The substitute ran on to a Rosina counter-attack and fell in the area when the goalkeeper plucked the ball off his foot.

The Azzurrini finally broke through seven minutes from time with the same player who had scored the winner in Iceland last week. Lazzari touched back for Fiorentina midfielder Montolivo to drill low into the far corner of the net.

It could've been a more generous scoreline, with a great save on Nicola Pozzi's strike, a Giorgio Chiellini header over and Lazzari's stoppage-time penalty appeals.

Italy top Group Five with a maximum six points, leaving Austria and Iceland with just one each, and enter Friday’s draw for the European Under-21 Championship play-offs.

Italy 1-0 Austria
Scorers: Montolivo 83 (I)
Italy U21: Curci; Potenza, Andreolli, Mantovani, Chiellini; Padoin, Montolivo, Aquilani (Morosini 89); Rosina, Pellè (Pozzi 82), Rossi (Lazzari 70)
Austria U21: Almer; Metz, Berger, Schleker (Klein 85), Harnik; Thonhofer, Polhuber, Garics, Fuchs; Idrizaj, Kienast (Hofer 63)
Ref: Kralovec (Cze)

Rossi eyes Toon extension

2006-09-05T12:57:00.000+01:00

Newcastle United loan signing Giuseppe Rossi has hinted that he may extend his stay at St James' Park beyond January.

The 19-year-old surprised many making by the temporary switch to The Magpies from Premiership rivals Manchester United last Wednesday.

The American-born Italy Under-21 international is due to see out the calendar year with Glenn Roeder's side, but the youngster admits he may take the chance to play the entire season on Tyneside.

"I know I will definitely be a Newcastle player until January, but we will look at it again before then and discuss whether I will stay for the whole season," Rossi told Newcastle's official website.

"It was decided it would help me and Newcastle if I was to go there on loan, and this was the best solution for me.

"I will have more opportunities to play with Newcastle."

The former Parma trainee claimed he had no interest from clubs in Italy this summer.

"No Italian clubs came in for me, but I preferred to stay in England anyway because I am settled and I know the style of football," he added.

"I like being in England."

We’ll play to win, says Casiraghi

2006-09-05T10:57:00.000+01:00

Italy Under-21 boss Gigi Casiraghi insists his side will play for victory against Austria tonight – even if a draw will be enough for Azzurrini qualification.

"We need to face this match as if winning were the only possible result,” said the tactician ahead of the European Championship tie in Forli.

“I don’t want the team to relax just because a draw would be enough for us, we can’t afford to be distracted.”

Italy got their mini-qualifying campaign off to a winning start on Friday after a 1-0 triumph in Iceland, but Casiraghi fears a tougher test this evening.

“Austria are less dynamical than Iceland, their game is very physical and they resemble a German side in their rigid organisation,” he noted.

Casiraghi is set to field an offensive 4-3-3 formation with Riccardo Montolivo, Nicola Padoin and Alberto Aquilani in midfield.

Manchester United starlet Giuseppe Rossi, now on loan at Newcastle, will play upfront next to Alessandro Rosina and Graziano Pellè.

“I do not intend to make any radical changes, but we have to deal with a few important absentees, such as Giampaolo Pazzini and Antonio Nocerino,” continued Casiraghi.

“We didn’t have time to try alternative solutions, but we are working hard to give this team personality and the right tactical balance.

“We have to play this game with the intention to win it, mentality, attention and concentration are going to be fundamental.”

Austria will reply with a classical 4-4-2 formation with Erwin Hoffer and Roman Kienast set to start upfront. Czech official Pavel Královec will referee the tie.

Italy probable: Curci; Potenza, Andreolli, Mantovani, Chiellini; Montolivo, Padoin, Aquilani; Rosina, Rossi, Pellè.

Rossi may extend Magpies stay

2006-09-05T08:58:00.000+01:00

Giuseppe Rossi could spend the season on loan at Newcastle if the move is deemed beneficial to his development.

The 19-year-old has yet to train with his new Magpies team-mates as he is with the Italian Under21 team preparing to take on Austria in their European Championship qualifier.

Initially, the deal with Newcastle sees Rossi remain at St James’ Park until 1 January, but the agreement will be reviewed nearer that date, with the possibility of extending it.

"I know I will definitely be a Newcastle player until January,” the Reds youngster said. “But we will look at it again before then and discuss whether I will stay for the whole season. It was decided that it would help me and Newcastle if I was to go there on loan and this was the best solution for me. I will have more opportunities to play with Newcastle.”

The former Parma youngster said there was no interest from Serie A clubs, when asked by Italian journalists. And, even if there had been, he felt staying in England was the right choice.

“No Italian clubs came in for me but I preferred to stay in England anyway because I am settled and I know the style of football. I like being in England.”

Rossi will be unavailable for Newcastle when Glenn Roeder's side visit Old Trafford on 1 October as Premier League rules state loaned players cannot play against their own club.

Rossi the only striker in tonight's U21

2006-09-04T14:55:00.000+01:00

ACF Fiorentina's Italy Under-21 striker Giampaolo Pazzini will be sidelined for two months after rupturing his right thigh during the Azzurrini's 1-0 win in Iceland on Friday. Coach Pierluigi Casiraghi has called up Empoli FC's Nicola Pozzi as a replacement for the Group 5 qualifier against Austria in Forli.

Rossi Subs in Italy U21

2006-09-02T03:09:00.000+01:00

Pierluigi Casiraghi registered his first win on the Under-21 bench with a 1-0 European Championship qualifier in Iceland.

The winners of the three-team mini-tournament go through to the play-off draw on September 8. Italy have their first three points in the bag and must face Austria next week to secure their spot on the road to the European Under-21 Championships.

Despite his impressive performance in the summer friendly, Newcastle United starlet Giuseppe Rossi was again left on the bench in Iceland to begin with, as Coach Casiraghi and assistant manager Gianfranco Zola opted for Giampaolo Pazzini in a lone striker role.

Alessandro Rosina of Torino had some early shots charged down, but Fiorentina hitman Pazzini lasted just 28 minutes before succumbing to a muscular problem and making way for Graziano Pellè.

The substitute’s header forced a good save out of Davidsson, but Francesco Lodi wasted Rosina’s counter-attack just before the break by firing straight at the goalkeeper.

Rossi replaced Lodi at half-time and Italy took the lead soon after, as Riccardo Montolivo unleashed a daisy-cutter from distance.

Alberto Aquilani and Alessandro Potenza couldn’t squeeze their shots past the Icelandic defence, yet the Azzurrini were let off the hook on 69 minutes. Gislason skipped past Potenza only to aim a weak strike into the grateful arms of Gianluca Curci.

Another Pellè header was saved, but it was a tense finale as Nocerino and Gunnarsson both saw red for their altercation. Pellè could’ve made it 2-0 in stoppages on the counter, but his effort was stopped short by the woodwork.

The Azzurrini emerged with a 1-0 victory and the precious three points. Iceland are left behind on one following their 0-0 draw with Austria.

The decider for Group 5 is between Italy and Austria on September 5, where a draw will be enough to see Casiraghi’s boys through to the play-offs.

Scorers: Montolivo 56 (It)
Iceland U21: Davidsson; Saevarsson, R Sigurdsson (Ottesen 73), Adelsteinson, Gunnarsson; Gislason (Baldvinsson 73), B Sigurdsson, Vidarsson, T Bjarnson, Halfredsson; Hedinsson (B Bjarnason 58)
Italy U21: Curci; Potenza (Padoin 74), Andreolli, Mantovani, Chiellini; Nocerino; Rosina, Aquilani, Montolivo, Lodi (Rossi 46); Pazzini (Pellè 28)
Ref: Hermansen (Den)
Sent off: Nocerino 84 (It), Gunnarsson 84 (Ic)

Rossi seeks Azzurrini role

2006-09-02T03:06:00.000+01:00

Giuseppe Rossi played just 45 minutes for the Under-21 side in Rekjavik, but is confident he’ll finally get to start against Austria on Tuesday.
“With 20 minutes in a friendly in Grosseto and 45 minutes today, I’m happy with the way things are going,” insisted the talented Parma youth product.
The former Manchester United starlet, who signed for Newcastle United this week, is finding it tough to break into the Azzurrini line-up despite some impressive performances.
“I hope to play the whole game on Tuesday, just like everyone in the squad, obviously. The important thing will be to win and to give everything I’ve got, whether it’s a handful of minutes or the whole 90. I’d also like to play more in the Premier League, which is why I left Manchester United.”
The 1-0 victory away to Iceland means Italy only need a draw against Austria to be sure of reaching the play-offs for the European Under-21 Championship.
Riccardo Montolivo secured that win with a long-range strike in Rekjavik. “It was a delicate game and our quality shone through in the end,” commented the Fiorentina midfielder.
“We found ourselves against an opponent that did nothing but defend extremely deep. I’m working well with Fiorentina as a midfielder, but I can also play in a wider role in support of a lone striker, as I’m doing at the moment with the Azzurrini. This side tries to play good football and that’s why I feel comfortable.”

Italy U21 1 Iceland U21 0

2006-09-02T03:02:00.000+01:00

Casiraghi critiques strikers
Saturday 2 September, 2006
Coach Pierluigi Casiraghi has given his Under-21 strikers a few pointers following their slender 1-0 victory in Iceland.
The 37-year-old tactician was one of the best forwards in Serie A during his career and was frustrated at the lack of consistency upfront during last night’s European Championship qualifier in Rekjavik.
“It’s a deserved victory and a very important one. We had a good start and were a little disappointing towards the end. Our problems are in the final third, where we aren’t finishing off our chances. This is where we have to improve very soon,” he warned.
In order to reach the play-offs, the Azzurrini need at least a draw against Austria on Tuesday in Forli.
“Iceland were very tough to beat and deserve praise for making life difficult. They put everyone behind the ball and it wasn’t easy to create opportunities.”
Riccardo Montolivo scored the only goal of the game with a long-range strike after 56 minutes.

Rossi sets sights on Azzurri

2006-09-01T12:58:00.000+01:00

Newcastle United's new loan signing Giuseppe Rossi has revealed his desire to take the chance to play his way into the full Italian squad in the future.

Manchester United's ambitious youngster secured a last minute move to St James' Park until January and wants to use the opportunity of first team football to score his way into coach Roberto Donadoni plans for the world champions.

The American-born Italian turned down the possibility of playing for the USA at the World Cup this summer, in favour of representing Italy and hopes to make the most of his selection.

"The Italian target is winning the European Championship with the Under-21 team and dreaming of big things like the jersey of the main national team, and being able to play with people like [Francesco] Totti, [Andrea] Pirlo and [Gennaro] Gattuso," Rossi told Corriere dello Sport.

"The English target is playing and scoring a lot."

Rossi has been compared to Italian great Paolo Rossi, whose six goals led the Azzurri to the 1982 world championship, in some quarters and the 19-year-old is flattered.

"I've seen on TV his World Cup goals and my father told me enough about him," he added.

"It would be great to follow in his tracks."

Rossi's first focus is on the Under-21 side who take on Iceland next in the Euro qualifiers, before his debut for The Magpies which could come against Fulham at home on September 9.

Italy U21 Squad

2006-08-31T08:04:00.000+01:00

Goalkeepers
Andrea Consigli
Gianluca Curci

Defenders:
Marco Andreolli
Giorgio Chiellini
Andrea Coda
Hernán Dellafiore
Damiano Ferronetti
Andrea Mantovani
Francesco Pisano
Alessandro Potenza

Midfielders
Alberto Aquilani
Luca Cigarini
Marino Defendi
Andrea Lazzari
Francesco Lodi
Riccardo Montolivo
Antonio Nocerino
Simone Padoin

Forwards
Giampaolo Pazzini
Giuseppe Rossi

Magpies in shock Rossi swoop

2006-08-30T18:19:00.000+01:00

Newcastle United have agreed a shock loan swoop for Manchester United's young striker Giuseppe Rossi.

The Italian youth international is highly-rated at Old Trafford and had been expected to make an impact on the United first team during the coming campaign after the sale of Ruud van Nistelrooy to Real Madrid.

Indeed, Ferguson refused to allow the American-born Rossi to move to West Bromwich Albion as part of the deal that saw Tomasz Kuszczak join The Red Devils.

However, Glenn Roeder's Magpies have now managed to convince Ferguson that Rossi's interests will be best served at St James' Park in a loan move until January.

"It was a big decision for us, especially as we don't have the choice of strikers," Ferguson told United's official website.

"But this is something that Giuseppe wanted, as he needs regular first-team football.

"When he returns, he will be a more experienced player who will be able to offer us much more."

Despite signing Obafemi Martins from Internazionale, Newcastle were still keen to reinforce their attack after seeing Alan Shearer retire and Michael Owen pick up a serious injury during this summer's World Cup.

The capture of Rossi will be seen as another coup for the club who signed Damien Duff from Chelsea over the summer, and the Italian forward, who has been prolific in Ferguson's reserve ranks, will look to serve notice of his great potential at St James' Park over the coming four months.

Boss mulls over options

2006-08-23T12:43:00.000+01:00

After getting off to a flying start against Fulham, United are now deprived of two of the stars of that perfomance following Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney’s three match ban.

But despite the setback, Sir Alex Ferguson has assured United fans that the club’s title challenge will not be derailed at this early stage, and the squad is strong enough to cover the absence of Rooney and Scholes.

Speaking exclusively to ManUtd.com, on the subject of finding a partner for Louis Saha he confirmed, “We’ve got alternatives. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is definitely back and I was pleased that he got 30 minutes against Fulham. He’s looking really sharp and his pre-season form was terrific, scoring four goals. His experience is important. I can also play Ryan Giggs up front, or Giuseppe Rossi, who’s got incredible potential. He didn’t get a goal in pre-season and maybe he was trying too hard, but his form was really good and he was terrific in the Ajax Tournament.

“I can also play Ronaldo up front," he added. "It’s something that's been in our thoughts for a while. He often floats into central areas, like for the second goal against Fulham, so he’s capable of playing there. Ji-sung Park can play anywhere up front, his movement and understanding of the team's passing is fantastic. So we’ve got alternatives and we’re not going to let it derail us, that’s why we’ve got a good pool.”

Reserves: Preston 2 United 7

2006-08-22T10:03:00.000+01:00

Alan Smith completed over an hour against Preston as United stormed into the second round of the Lancashire Senior Cup with a brilliant second half display.

The 25-year-old striker continued his recovery from a broken leg and dislocated ankle with a solid display at Deepdale, and showed no adverse effects to his return.

Preston, who had gone in level at half-time, were blown away by the Reds' attacking prowess after the interval and succumbed to goals from Chris Eagles, Giuseppe Rossi (2), Danny Rose, Phil Marsh (2) and David Jones.

The Lancashire Cup was the only trophy the Reserves failed to win last season, having slipped out to Oldham Athletic in the first round, and they quickly set about ensuring there would be no repeat this year.

Eagles fired Brian McClair's side ahead after just three minutes, winding through the North End defence before slotting calmly home.

Preston drew level on the stroke of half-time through Brian Stock's low, long-range drive, although Smith could have restored United's advantage immediately.

When presented with a sight of goal by Liam Miller's through-ball, however, Smith lashed his chance into the side netting - a forgivable miss after over six months out of action.

After a keenly contested first 45, United emerged for the second-half and regained the lead within 10 minutes.

Serial goalscorer Rossi was the man who restored the advantage, lashing an unstoppable right-footed effort into the top corner from just inside the area.

Five minutes later United were two goals clear, this time the impressive Rose lashed home a cross-cum-shot from the left-hand side of the area.

Within a minute Preston had pulled a goal back through Lewis Neal, only for Rossi to smash home his second on 64 minutes following good wingplay from Eagles.

Although cruelly without the goal he deserved in the first-team's pre-season, the Italian striker can take some solace in the fact that this was his 59th goal in 58 Reserves starts.

Smith then departed the action to be replaced by Sean Evans, and Rossi was denied the chance of a hat-trick as he was replaced by Marsh on 74 minutes. Almost immediately Marsh slotted home clinically from Eagles' pass.

With the hosts now totally demoralised, United added further goals - first through Jones' run and low shot, then as Marsh pounced on a poor clearance from North End keeper Andy Lonergan.

United: Heaton, Lee, Rose, R Jones, Shawcross, Miller, Eagles, D Jones, Smith (S Evans, 66), Rossi (Marsh, 74), Mullan (Barnes, 78).
Substitutes: Zieler, Burns, Ngalula.

Photos: Preston 2 United Reserves 7

2006-08-22T10:00:00.000+01:00

Rossi in Lancashire Senior Cup Line-up

2006-08-21T18:23:00.000+01:00

Alan Smith is a shock inclusion in the Reserves' line-up to face Preston North End in the Lancashire Senior Cup on Monday night.

In his first taste of competitive action since suffering a broken leg and dislocated ankle in February, the 25-year-old partners Giuseppe Rossi upfront at Deepdale.

The duo are the biggest names in a strong side chosen by caretaker boss Brian McClair.

First-team squad members David Jones, Chris Eagles and Liam Miller are joined by young winger Jamie Mullan in an experienced midfield.

Regular midfielder Ritchie Jones drops to centre-back with Ryan Shawcross, with Kieran Lee and Danny Rose manning the flanks at full-back.

Tom Heaton starts in goal, while Michael Barnes, Sean Evans, Phil Marsh, Aaron Burns, Floribert Ngalula and Ron-Robert Zieler are named on the bench.

United: Heaton, Lee, Shawcross, R Jones, Rose, D Jones, Eagles, Miller, Smith, Rossi, Mullan. Substitutes: Barnes, S Evans, Marsh, Burns, Zieler, Ngalula.

Photos: 060818 Training

2006-08-18T16:39:00.000+01:00

Rossi is United no.19

2006-08-18T06:41:00.000+01:00

Edwin van der Sar will officially be United's number one goalkeeper next season, after the Reds confirmed the team's squad numbers for the new Premiership season.

Van der Sar, previously No.19, takes the jersey occupied last term by Tim Howard, who will be spending the season on loan with Everton.

Italian teenage striker Giuseppe Rossi is expected to be a much more prominent figure following the departure of Ruud van Nistelrooy, who's No.10 shirt will be vacant this season. Rossi will wear the No.19 shirt.

Other additions or changes include Tomasz Kuszczak (29), David Jones (25) and Michael Carrick, who, of course, wears Roy Keane's old No.16 shirt number.

Premiership 2006/07 Squad Numbers:
1. Van der Sar,
2. Neville,
3. Evra,
4. Heinze,
5. Ferdinand,
6. Brown,
7. Ronaldo,
8. Rooney,
9. Saha,
11. Giggs,
13. Park,
14. Smith,
15. Vidic,
16. Carrick,
17. Miller,
18. Scholes,
19. Rossi,
20. Solskjaer,
22. O'Shea,
23. Richardson,
24. Fletcher,
25. D.Jones,
27. Silvestre,
29. Kuszczak,
33. Eagles,
38. Heaton,
49. R.Jones

Simpson targets striker signing

2006-08-17T13:02:00.000+01:00

Preston manager Paul Simpson is looking to bring in at least one new striker, after seeing a bid for Sam Parkin accepted.

The Lilywhites have tabled a bid thought to be in the region of £300,000 for the out-of-favour Ipswich Striker.

However, Simpson is likely to face stiff competition from Championship rivals Coventry and Luton, with the latter also having a bid accepted.

Simpson insists he has other irons in the fire should he fail to lure Parkin to Deepdale, with three Premiership strikers loan targets for the former Carlisle chief.

Arsenal hit-man Arturo Lupoli, Liverpool's Neil Mellor and Manchester United's highly-rated youngster Giuseppe Rossi are all being monitored by Simpson.

The North End boss' primary aim is to secure Parkin's signature, but says he is looking into other possibilities as well.

"He's a player who I am interested in. I tell the chairman who I would like to sign, within reason, and he tries to get them here," Simpson said.

"Sam Parkin is one of a number of players who we have enquired about whether it's permanent or loan signings. We're still in the hunt for players and we have still got the chance to bring new faces in.

"There are a number of players I'm interested in. Lupoli is a player I like, Neil Mellor is a player I like. I'm looking for at least one striker.

"Giuseppe Rossi is also a player I like but as far as I'm aware, Sir Alex Ferguson doesn't want him to go out on loan at the moment but he is a player I've asked about."

Rossi Substitutes

2006-08-16T09:51:00.000+01:00

ITALIA (4-4-2): Curci (1' st Consigli), Ferronetti (1' Andreolli), Coda (1' Pisano), Potenza, Mantovani (15' st Dellafiore), Rosina (21' st Rossi), Nocerino, Aquilani (21' Padoin), Defendi (1' st Lazzari), Pazzini (15' st Pozzi), Lodi (1' st Montolivo). All. Casiraghi.
CROAZIA (4-2-3-1): Subasic, Mujzda (28' st Labudovic), Ipsa, Vucko (39' st Lozo), Bartulovic, Brkljaca, Pokrivac, Dinjar, Jertec (39' st Sharbini), Rivic, Busic (21' Mandzukic) (12 Simic, 6 Vukman, 7 Papa, 9 Bagaric, 12 Marcic, 15 Vrucina). All. Ladic

Rossi's U21 Debut Impressed

2006-08-15T22:11:00.000+01:00

U-21: Casiraghi debut goalless Tuesday 15 August, 2006

Pierluigi Casiraghi’s debut on the Under-21 bench was a disappointing 0-0 draw against Croatia, but Giuseppe Rossi impressed.

The new Coach, replacing 1982 World Cup winner Claudio Gentile and with Gianfranco Zola as an assistant manager, caused controversy upon their appointment due to a lack of experience.

Croatia had the better of the first half and threatened with Rivic before creating the best scoring opportunity of the match in Grosseto.

Dinjar spotted goalkeeper Gianluca Curci off his line and aimed a lob from 30 metres, but the crossbar rescued the Romanista.

Little improved after the break, although Manchester United youngster Rossi impressed the few fans who attended the international friendly.

It was the talented 19-year-old’s debut at Under-21 level and the substitute almost snatched a winner on Padoin’s assist, but his header was off target.

Empoli forward Nicola Pozzi suffered an injury in the final stages, so Italy had to end the game in 10 men, as they had already completed their substitutions.

The European Under-21 Championship qualifiers begin in a fortnight and Italy open by taking on Austria on September 5 in Forli.

Italy U-21: Curci; Ferronetti, Potenza, Coda, Mantovani; Rosina, Aquilani, Nocerino, Defendi; Pazzini, Lodi

Rossi dreams of Italy return

2006-08-15T19:24:00.000+01:00

Manchester United starlet Giuseppe Rossi has expressed a desire to return to Italy at some stage in his career.

Red Devils chief Sir Alex Ferguson prised the youngster away from Parma in 2004 and he has high hopes for the 19-year-old.

With Ruud van Nistelrooy departed, Rossi could play a key role at Old Trafford this season, but he admits that a return to Serie A is on the agenda in the future.

"My dream is to come back to Italy where there is a more technical and tactical football," Rossi told Gaz Sport.

"In The Premiership competitive spirit are the favourite, even if clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea have changed their mentality."

Rossi grew up watching Dutch star Marco van Basten shine for Milan and he admits a switch to the Rossoneri would be a dream transfer.

"I have a liking for Milan, my idol was Marco van Basten," he added. "Then arrived Sheva (Andrei Shevchenko) and now I could see him even closer (at Chelsea)."

Rossi has been given the nod by Italy Under-21 coach Pierluigi Casiraghi and he is looking forward to the chance to represent his country.

"I'm really happy for the call-up," he declared. "It's a unique occasion and I want to play my best."

Italy U21 Current Squad

2006-08-14T09:37:00.000+01:00

Andreolli Marco (Inter), Aquilani Alberto (Roma), Coda Andrea (Udinese), Consigli Andrea (Sambenedettese), Curci Gianluca (Roma), Defendi Marino (Atalanta), Dellafiore Hernan (Palermo), Ferronetti Damiano (Parma), Lazzari Andrea (Cesena), Lodi Francesco (Frosinone), Mantovani Andrea (Chievo), Montolivo Riccardo (Fiorentina), Nocerino Antonio (Piacenza), Padoin Simone (Vicenza), Pazzini Gianpaolo (Fiorentina), Pisano Francesco (Cagliari), Potenza Alessandro (Fiorentina), Pozzi Nicola (Empoli), Rosina Alessandro (Torino), Rossi Giuseppe (Manchester United).

Rossi Called up for international friendly

2006-08-12T07:23:00.000+01:00

Giuseppe Rossi has been called up to the Italian U21 squad for the first time for the friendly with Croatia on Tuesday.

Photos: Open Training

2006-08-11T04:34:00.000+01:00

Photos: United Photocall

2006-08-10T15:45:00.000+01:00

Baggies miss out on Rossi

2006-08-07T16:20:00.000+01:00

Giuseppe Rossi will not be joining West Bromwich Albion on loan.

The Italian striker will spend the season at Old Trafford, according to Baggies manager Bryan Robson.

West Brom had previously insisted on taking Rossi on loan if they were to sell goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak to United.

However, Robson confirmed: "Any deal for Rossi will definitely not happen.

"Sir Alex Ferguson has said he will be staying at United and he is part of their first-team squad. That won't be part of the deal."

The Baggies have rejected three United bids for Kuszczak, and Robson admits he is still unsure whether the Polish stopper will remain at the Hawthorns.

"There is only one question mark about the future of any player in my squad and that is regarding Tomasz Kuszczak," he said.

"That is because it is a club like Manchester United who are involved.

"I've given my recommendation to the chairman and now it's in the chairman's hands.

"I've told the chairman what I believe is the correct decision. It is up to the board. They run this club and it's their decision what to do with Tomasz.

"But I think sometime this week the decision will be made one way or the other about Tomasz because as a club we need to close that deal one way or the other and move on so we can all get focused on the season."

Photos: Ajax 0 United 1

2006-08-05T23:21:00.000+01:00

Amsterdam Tournament: Ajax 0 United 1

2006-08-05T06:45:00.000+01:00

Report:
United won the LG Amsterdam Tournament on Saturday night after beating the hosts Ajax with a late goal from Ryan Giggs.

The Welsh veteran struck a free-kick in off the underside of the crossbar, following a foul on Giuseppe Rossi in the 76th minute.

It wasn't all good news for Sir Alex Ferguson's men, however. New signing Michael Carrick, playing his second game for the club in two days, was withdrawn after just 16 minutes with an ankle injury. He hobbled from the pitch, and was on crutches when he collected the first of hopefully many winners' medals with United.

It was the first time in four attempts that United had won this competition. They achieved it with ten points - three for each victory over Porto and Ajax, plus one bonus point for each goal they scored (four).

Sir Alex Ferguson was forced to make several changes to the side which had beaten Porto just 24 hours earlier. Rio Ferdinand and John O’Shea were unavailable because of injury, so Jonny Evans formed the centre-back partnership with Wes Brown, having flown over from Manchester earlier in the day.

Wayne Rooney and Paul Scholes were, of course, missing from the line-up after being dismissed against Porto.

United, playing in a change kit of all blue, started the match knowing that a victory by any score would be enough to win them the Amsterdam Tournament for the first time.

That became clear after Internazionale had beaten Porto 3-2 in the third game of the contest. That put the Milan side on eight points, two ahead of United and six better off than Ajax.

The game produced something of a pedestrian opening as the teams attempted to build up a head of steam. Ajax may have just edged the opening exchanges in terms of territorial advantage, but it was only marginal.

United’s mounting pre-season problems took another blow in the 16th minute when new boy Michael Carrick limped from the field with what appeared to be an ankle injury. The England man had been on the wrong end of Kenneth Perez’s clumsy challenge.

United fans in the packed Amsterdam Arena very nearly had something to celebrate in the 29th minute when Ryan Giggs and Giuseppe Rossi went close to finding the net. Giggs’ free-kick by-passed the Ajax defensive wall only to strike the far post. The ball rebounded off the woodwork and struck keeper Maarten Stekelenburg before dropping to Rossi, whose shot was pushed on to the post by the Ajax number one. It was a major let-off for the host club.

Barely a minute further on and Giggs was again close to opening the scoring, flashing a header just over the bar. United’s skipper on the night could certainly curse his luck for he had also struck the crossbar with an earlier free-kick.

Ajax found the net through Johnny Heitinga in the 35th minute, but the assistant referee’s flag signalled that he was offside.

The Dutch

side made three changes during the break, but there was no obvious change to the pattern of the game as the second half unfolded. United lined up with the same eleven players who’d completed the first half.

Thomas Vermaelen, one of Ajax’s second half subs, could easily have put his side into the lead in the 51st minute but his powerful header, from Perez’s right-wing cross, went narrowly over the bar.

Chances continued to be at a premium, but Ajax were presented with a golden opportunity to claim the initiative on the hour when Liam Miller was adjudged to have fouled Hedwiges Maduro in the area. There was little or no appeal from United’s players despite the fact that the award looked a little harsh, but justice was done when Edwin van der Sar dived correctly to save Klaas-Jan Huntelaar’s spot-kick.

Ajax appeared to be getting the upper hand as the game wore on, but United kept plugging away and in the 73rd minute they were just inches from snatching the lead. Jonny Evans, who scored his first senior goal against Celtic at Parkhead recently, sneaked in behind the Ajax defence to place his shot against the upright from Giggs’ corner.

The frame of the goal had saved Ajax several times during the evening, but in the 76th minute it finally came to United’s assistance after they were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the area.

Rossi had broken through the Ajax back-four and looked set to at least give substitute goalkeeper Kenneth Vermeer a testing. Heitinga stopped the young striker with a untidy trip just

as he was about to pull the trigger. Giggs took the responsibility and watched with delight as his free-kick thudded against the bar and dropped over the goal-line.

The ball only just crossed the line, but the assistant referee was in no doubt and he instantly indicated that United’s longest serving player had grabbed what proved to be the tournament-winning goal.

Ajax: Stekelenburg (Vermeer 46); Heitinga, Grygera, Lindenbergh, Schilder; Rosales, Maduro (Roger 70), Vertonghen (Vermaelen 46), Manucharyan (Huntelaar 46); Perez; Rosenberg (Charisteas 64).
Substitutes not used: De Mul, Ogararu.

United: van der Sar; Simpson, Evans, Brown, Richardson; Miller (Jones D. 72), Fletcher, Carrick (Martin 16), Park; Rossi, Giggs (Bardsley 80).
Substitutes not used: Foster, Evra, Solskjaer.

Footnote: This was the fourth time United had faced Ajax in the Amsterdam Tournament with the Dutch giants having won all three previous meetings. The most recent clash, four years ago, saw Ajax run out 2-1 winners. In 1983 they won by the only goal of the game, which was also the outcome when the met three years later.

Sir Alex considers striker move

2006-08-03T17:24:00.000+01:00

Reds boss Sir Alex Ferguson is unsure whether he will sign a striker to replace Ruud van Nistelrooy, but says his squad will be strong enough to challenge for the top honours.

Van Nistelrooy, who scored 150 goals in 219 matches with the Reds in five years at the club, left for Real Madrid last month, leaving Sir Alex with five strikers at his disposal: Wayne Rooney, Louis Saha, Giuseppe Rossi, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and, in three weeks' time, Alan Smith, who is recovering from a broken leg.

Asked if he would attempt to sign another striker, the United boss responded: "We have one or two decision to make about that. But, if you look around you have to say there are not many centre-forwards we would really go for, in terms of what we would need.

Reds chief executive David Gill confirmed that United are looking at possibly two more signings this summer. A ball-winning midfielder is certainly on Sir Alex's shopping list, but he says a decision must be made whether to move for a striker. The United boss appears to be leaning towards the players he already has in his squad.

"It is more likely Giuseppe Rossi will stay now that Ruud van Nistelrooy has left," he said. "Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has come back and is looking promising. The more games he gets the more it will help him.

"We also have Rooney and Saha and - I'm not saying he will be back immediately - Alan Smith is back in training. He has been a real surprise to us in how well he has come on. He isn't far away from playing in an actual game now. I think in three weeks he will be back in the lion's den. He is a centre-forward of real guts and determination - a real handful for defenders. He's a different type of option for us. We also have Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, so we have plenty of attacking options.

"I'm happy with the squad I have got," he added. "We have a good bunch of players. What we need to do is make sure we don't get injuries in the early part of the season. That has definitely blighted us in the last two seasons. If we can do that we have a great chance this year."

West Brom Wants Rossi

2006-08-03T06:18:00.000+01:00

West Bromwich Albion have rejected a £2.5 million bid from Manchester United for shot stopper Tomasz Kuszczak.

Sir Alex Ferguson has targeted the Polish international as a backup for current number one Edwin van der Sar, but The Baggies are playing hardball over the impressive 24-year-old.

Bryan Robson is determined to keep his squad together to fire a promotion charge, and the Championship side have underlined their determination to keep Kuszczak by knocking back a third offer from the Premiership giants.

Baggies chairman Jeremy Peace has revealed the Midlands side will only consider a deal if it means Red Devils starlet Giuseppe Rossi moving the other way on loan, but with Sir Alex Ferguson not keen to farm out the Italian youth international West Brom are unwilling to do business.

"At this moment in time selling Tomasz to United is not a viable option," Peace told the club's official website.

"It would severely weaken our squad at a time when we are trying to strengthen it for a promotion push.

"We have had numerous talks with United and have told them any deal would have to involve their highly-rated young striker, Giuseppe Rossi, joining us on loan for the season.

"Although this would weaken us temporarily until we signed another keeper to compete with Pascal Zuberbuhler, it would increase our attacking options, an area we're actively looking to strengthen.

"However United have told us Rossi will not be going out on loan this season.

"It means if we sold Tomasz to United, without Rossi coming in return, it would potentially cause us more problems without solving any - despite the receipt of cash."

Peace also admitted that the keeper is keen to move to Old Trafford.

"This will come as a disappointment to Tomasz who has indicated to us he would like to join United," added Peace.

"But it is the board's job to do what is best for this football club and we will not sell Tomasz unless the deal suits us.

"Because of the way this football club is structured, we are under no pressure to sell anyone.

"Tomasz will only be sold if it is in our interests to do so."

Photos: Preston 2 United 1

2006-07-29T09:32:00.000+01:00

more photos on gettyimages