Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill wants to “build his side around” Gareth Barry after admitting his relief that his skipper did not join tomorrow’s opponents Portsmouth in the summer.

PETERBOROUGH director of football Barry Fry believes Rafael Benitez’s proposal for reserve teams to play in the Football League “would never happen in a million years”.

Peterborough director of football Barry Fry believes Rafael Benitez’s proposal for reserve teams to play in the Football League “would never happen in a million years”.

Frank Lampard has insisted Chelsea are not facing a mid-season crisis and is confident Jose Mourinho’s side can overhaul Manchester United in the Barclays Premiership title race.

Bryan Robson has hailed Steve Watson as West Brom’s ‘Mr Versatility’ after playing in five different positions this season.

Harry Redknapp looks certain to be offered a short-term contract together with a massive bonus to beat relegation if, as expected, he returns as Portsmouth manager next week.

Paul Jewell is tipping Everton for an autumn revival and the Wigan boss just hopes his team are not the first victims.

Steve Bruce has handed Clinton Morrison a boost by telling the Birmingham striker that he will play in Sunday’s derby at Aston Villa.

Alex Ferguson has questioned the wisdom of Roy Carroll delaying a decision about whether to sign an extension to his Manchester United contract.

Footall Association chairman Geoff Thompson described Brian Clough’s death as “a great loss to the game” as tributes poured in for the managerial legend.

Aston Villa manager Graham Taylor saw his side draw another blank in the goalless draw with Leeds and then groaned: “That has been the story of our season.”