Michael Dawson insists Spurs can defend their Carling Cup under Harry Redknapp after reaching the quarter-finals with a 4-2 win over Liverpool.

Aston Villa are ready to pay what it takes to sign Michael Owen in January, while Watford have targeted Sheffield Wednesday chief Brian Laws.

England coach Fabio Capello has assured Newcastle striker Michael Owen and David Beckham that he will "never close the door" on anyone.

The Metropolitan Police and the Football Association are both investigating a coin-throwing incident involving Chelsea striker Didier Drogba.

Diego Maradona says he will walk out on Argentina if he is refused permission to appoint Oscar Ruggeri as his number two.

Carlos Tevez is concerned about his lack of first-team action at Manchester United, according to new Argentina coach Diego Maradona.

Wigan are unlikely to sign Amr Zaki on a permanent deal as his club Zamalek have revealed he will be sold to the highest bidder next summer.

Ronaldinho has welcomed the opportunity to play alongside David Beckham when the midfielder completes his loan move to AC Milan in January.

Assistant manager Malcolm Crosby has urged David Wheater not to 'sulk' about losing his place in Middlesbrough's first-choice defence.

FA chiefs have not yet ruled out taking further action against Sheffield United's Chris Morgan for his challenge on Barnsley striker Iain Hume.

With apathy towards the Carling Cup growing by the year, TEAMtalk's Ian Watson proposes a radical shake-up of the once-prestigious competition.

Sir Alex Ferguson should be given first refusal to coach the Great Britain football team at the 2012 Olympics, according to Richard Caborn.

Stoke boss Tony Pulis is relishing his trip to Old Trafford - but does not plan to change his tactics against "the greatest club in the world".

Aston Villa winger Ashley Young believes Arsenal have the right blend of youth and experience to challenge for the Premier League title.

Newcastle boss Joe Kinnear will apologise to Martin Atkinson after branding him a 'Mickey Mouse' referee at the weekend.

Sunderland striker Kenwyne Jones is ready to lead the fight for the Black Cats once again after playing down his latest injury scare.

Former Watford manager Adrian Boothroyd has been handed a suspended one-match touchline ban by the Football Association.

Mark Hughes insists Manchester City will not be "ripped off" when the transfer window re-opens in January and says the club will be "astute".

Brazil are to return to the Emirates Stadium in London in February for a friendly match against World Cup holders Italy.

Hull have described the alleged fracas between Marlon King and Dean Windass in the early hours of Wednesday as an 'unfortunate incident'.