David Bellion was handed his first Premiership start as Alex Ferguson sprung a couple of surprises in his Manchester United side to face Blackburn at Old Trafford.

Alex Ferguson could stay in charge of Manchester United until 2007 at least.

Aston Villa manager David O’Leary is optimistic that defender Mark Delaney will not be a long-term injury casualty – even if he requires further surgery on his knee.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter plans to write to the Football Association demanding to know why Rio Ferdinand has been allowed to continue playing for Manchester United after failing to attend a random drugs test.

Manchester United begin their latest Champions League campaign at Old Trafford tonight without Cristiano Ronaldo.

Manchester United have received an FA Cup final boost after captain Roy Keane came through a training session at the club’s Carrington training ground this morning.

Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson insists he is not taking a risk by playing Paul Scholes at Leicester tomorrow.

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has called his players "stupid" for their behaviour at the end of Sunday's match against Manchester United.

Leeds striker Alan Smith has admitted that he would consider moving to the club’s bitter rivals Manchester United.

Liverpool have not managed four successive league wins all season – but that is what defender John Arne Riise believes they need to clinch Champions League football next term.

Lazio coach Roberto Mancini admits his side will have to keep a very close eye on former favourite Juan Sebastian Veron in tonight’s Champions League clash against Chelsea.

Paris St Germain coach Vahid Halilhodzic has hinted the club may move for Manchester United goalkeeper Fabien Barthez when the transfer window re-opens in January.

Premiership latest:

Rangers manager Alex McLeish has sent Michael Stewart back to Manchester United to consider his future.

Rio Ferdinand’s drugs ban appeal has backfired with a three-man appeals panel tonight upholding his eight-month suspension.

Louis Saha has revealed the depth of his frustration at a “nightmare” first two months at Manchester United.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is backing Celtic to lift the UEFA Cup tonight.

Patrick Vieira claims he “would love to stay” with Arsenal and is prepared to sign a four or five-year contract if he is happy with the deal offered to him.

Manchester United could be without seven of their first-team squad when they face Basle in Switzerland tomorrow.

Sunderland manager Howard Wilkinson was left cursing his luck in the FA Cup today at Ewood Park.