The Free Kicks Report

Soccer TV Schedule for the week of 9/11

2010-09-10T08:28:00.000-04:00

Saturday (11th):
- EPL: Everton v Manchester United - 7:40am - FSP
- EPL: Manchester City v Blackburn - 9:55am - FSP
- EPL: Chelsea vs. West Ham - 9:55am - ESPN2
- EPL: Arsenal vs. Bolton - 10am - FSC
- EPL: West Brom vs. Tottenham - 12pm - FSC
- Championship: Burnley v Preston North End - 12:10pm - FSP
- Serie A: AC Milan vs. Cesena - 2:30pm - FSC
- Serie A: Inter Milan v Udinese - 2:30pm - FSP
- MLS: Chicago vs. Philadelphia - 6pm - FSC
- WPS: FC Gold Pride vs. Philadelphia - 8:30pm - FSC

Sunday (12th):
- Serie A: Brescia v Palermo - 6:30am - FSP
- EPL: Newcastle vs. Blackpool - 8:30am - FSP
- Serie A: Juventus vs. Sampdoria - 9am - FSC
- EPL: Birmingham City vs. Liverpool - 11am - FSC
- EPL: Wigan v Sunderland - 12:30pm - FSP
- Serie A: Napoli vs. Bari - 2:30pm - FSC
- Ligue 1: Olympique de Marseille v AS Monaco FC - 3pm - FSP

Tuesday (14th):
- UEFA CL: FC Twente (NED) v FC Internazionale Milano (ITA) - 2:30pm - FSC
- UEFA CL: SV Werder Bremen (GER) v Tottenham Hotspur FC (ENG) - 2:30pm - FSP
- UEFA CL: Manchester United FC (ENG) v Rangers FC (SCO) - 5pm - FSC
- CONCACAF CL: Columbus (USA) v Joe Public (TRI) - 8pm - FSC
- CONCACAF CL: Saprissa (CRC) v Seattle Sounders (USA) - 10pm - FSC

Wednesday (15th):

- UEFA CL: MSK Zilina (SVK) v Chelsea FC (ENG) - 2:30pm - FSC

- UEFA CL: Arsenal FC (ENG) v SC Braga (POR) - 2:30pm - FSP

- UEFA CL: Real Madrid CF (ESP) v AFC Ajax (NED) - 5pm - FSC

- CONCACAF CL: Real Salt Lake (USA) v Toronto FC (CAN) - 10pm - FSC

Friday (17th):

- NCAA Mens: Duke vs. UNC - 6:30pm - FSC

- NCAA Womens: Duke vs. Florida - 8:30pm - FSC

Soccer TV Schedule for the week of 9/4

2010-09-02T22:35:00.000-04:00

Saturday (4th):
- MLS: DC United vs. Columbus Crew - 7pm - FSC

Sunday (5th):
- WPS: Chicago vs. Washington - 6pm - FSC

Tuesday (7th):
- Euro U-21 Championship Qualifier: England vs. Lithuania - 11am - FSC

Thursday (9th):
- NCAA Women: Louisville vs. Kentucky - 7pm - FSC
- MLS: Seattle Sounders vs. Real Salt Lake - 11pm - ESPN2

Friday (10th):
- NCAA Men: Virginia Tech vs. South Florida - 8pm - FSC

Soccer TV Schedule for the week of 8/28

2010-08-27T19:27:00.000-04:00

Saturday (28th):
- EPL: Arsenal vs. Blackburn - 7:30am - ESPN2
- EPL: Tottenham vs. Wigan - 10am - FSC
- EPL: Chelsea vs. Stoke City - 10am - FSP
- Serie A: Udinese vs. Genoa - 12pm - FSP
- EPL: Manchester United vs. West Ham - 12:30pm - FSC
- Serie A: Roma vs. Cesena: - 2:30pm - FSC
- USL-2: Championship: Richmond vs. Charleston - 6pm - FSC
- MLS: Colorado vs. Houston - 9:30pm - FSC

Sunday (29th):
- EPL: Bolton vs. Birmingham - 8:25am - FSP
- EPL: Everton vs. Aston Villa - 11am - FSC
- Serie A: Juventus vs. Bari - 12pm - FSP
- Serie A: AC Milan vs. Lecce - 2:30pm - FSC
- Ligue 1: Bordeaux vs. Marseille - 3pm - FSP
- WPS: Philadelphia vs. Boston - 6pm - FSC
- MLS: DC United vs. Chivas USA - 10pm - ESPN2

Monday (30th):
- Serie A: Inter Milan vs. Bologna - 2:30pm - FSC

Friday (3rd):
- Euro 2012 Qualifier: England vs. Bulgaria - 3pm - FSC
- NCAA: South Carolina vs. Clemson - 8pm - FSC

TV Schedule for the Week of 8/21

2010-08-20T16:10:00.000-04:00

Saturday (21st):
- Championship: Coventry City vs. Derby County - 7am - FSP
- EPL: Arsenal vs. Blackpool - 9:55am - ESPN2
- EPL: Stoke City vs. Tottenham - 10am - FSP
- EPL: Everton vs. Wolverhampton - 10am - FSC
- EPL: Chelsea vs. Wigan - 12pm - FSC
- EPL: West Ham vs. Bolton - 2:30pm - FSC
- MLS: Dallas vs. Chivas USA - 8:30pm - FSC

Sunday (22nd):
- EPL: Newcastle United vs. Aston Villa - 8:30am - FSP
- EPL: Fulham vs. Manchester United - 11am - FSC
- Ligue 1: Paris Saint-Germain vs. Bordeaux - 3pm - FSP
- WPS: Chicago vs. FC Gold Pride - 6pm - FSC

Monday (23rd):
- EPL: Manchester City vs. Liverpool - 2:55pm - ESPN2

Tuesday (24th):
- UEFA Champions League: Anderlecht (BEL) vs. Partizan (SRB) - 2:30pm - FSC
- UEFA Champions League: Hapoel Tel-Aviv (ISR) vs. Salzburg (AUT) - 2:30pm - FSP
- UEFA Champions League: Sampdoria (ITA) vs. Werder Bremen (GER) - 5pm - FSC
- CONCACAF Champions League: Arabe Unido (PAN) vs. Toronto (CAN) - 8pm - FSC
- CONCACAF Champions League: Santos (MEX) vs. Columbus (USA) - 10pm - FSC

Wednesday (25th):

- UEFA Champions League: Tottenham (ENG) vs. Young Boys (SUI) - 2:30pm - FSC

- UEFA Champions League: Auxerre (FRA) vs. Zenit St. Petersburg (RUS) - 2:30pm - FSP

- UEFA Champions League: Ajax (NED) vs. Dynamo Kyiv (UKR) - 5pm - FSC

- CONCACAF Champions League: Cruz Azul (MEX) vs. Real Salt Lake (USA) - 8pm - FSC

- CONCACAF Champions League: Seattle (USA) vs. Monterrey (MEX) - 10pm - FSC

Thursday (26th):
- UEFA Champions League Group Stage Draw Show - 12pm - FSC
- Carling Cup: Birmingham City vs. Rochdale - 2:30pm - FSP

Friday (27th):
- UEFA Super Cup: Inter Milan (ITA) vs. Atletico Madrid (ESP) - 2:30pm - FSC

TV Schedule for the Week of 8/14

2010-08-13T16:17:00.000-04:00

Note: All game times are in Eastern Standard Time and additional UEFA Champions League matches will be re-playing Tuesday through Friday.

Saturday (14th):
- EPL: Tottenham vs. Manchester City - 7:30am - ESPN2
- EPL: Aston Villa vs. Wigan - 10am - FSC
- EPL: Blackburn vs. Everton - 10am - FSP (Fox Soccer Plus)
- Championship: Leicester City v Middlesbrough - 12pm - FSP
- EPL: Chelsea vs. West Bromwich - 12:30 - FSC
- EPL: Wolverhampton vs. Stoke City - 2pm - FSP
- EPL: Fulham vs. Bolton - 2:30pm - FSC
- MLS: LA Galaxy vs. New York Red Bulls - 6pm - FSC

Sunday (15th):
- Championship: Nottingham Forest v Leeds United - 8am - FSP
- EPL: Sunderland vs. Birmingham City - 10:30am - FSP
- EPL: Arsenal vs. Liverpool - 11am - FSC
- Ligue 1: LOSC Lille Metropole v Paris Saint-Germain - 3pm - FSP
- WPS: Boston Breakers vs. Sky Blue FC - 6pm - FSC

Monday (16th):
- EPL: Manchester United vs. Newcastle - 2:30pm - ESPN2

Tuesday (17th):

- UEFA Champions League: Rosenborg BK (NOR) v FC København (DEN) - 2:30pm - FSP

- UEFA Champions League: FC Dynamo Kyiv (UKR) v AFC Ajax (NED) - 2:30pm - FSC

- UEFA Champions League: Tottenham (ENG) vs. Young Boys (SWI) - 5pm - FSC

- CONCACAF Champions League: Toronto (CAN) vs. Cruz Azul (MEX) - 8pm - FSC

Wednesday (18th):

- UEFA Champions League: SV Werder Bremen (GER) v UC Sampdoria (ITA) - 2:30pm - FSC

- UEFA Champions League: FK Partizan (SRB) v RSC Anderlecht (BEL) - 2:30pm - FSC

- UEFA Champions League: SC Braga (POR) v Sevilla FC (ESP) - 5pm - FSP

- CONCACAF Champions League: Columbus (USA) v Municipal (GUA) - 8pm - FSC

- CONCACAF Champions League: Real Salt Lake (USA) v Arabe Unido (PAN) - 10pm - FSC

Thursday (19th):

- CONCACAF Champions League: Marathon (HON) v Seattle Sounders (USA) - 10pm - FSC

TV Schedule for the Week of 8/7

2010-08-06T14:33:00.000-04:00

Saturday (7th):
- Ligue 1: Paris Saint-Germain vs. AS Saint-Etienne - 3pm - FSC
- International Friendly: LA Galaxy (USA) vs. Real Madrid (SPA) - 10pm - FSC

Sunday (8th):
- FA Community Shield: Chelsea vs. Manchester United - 10am - FSC
- MLS: FC Dallas vs. Philadelphia Union - 6pm - FSC
- WPS: Philadelphia Independence vs. Boston Breakers - 8pm - FSC
- MLS: Chicago Fire vs. New York Red Bulls - 9pm - FSC

Monday (9th):
- EPL 2010/2011 Season Preview Show - 9pm - FSC

Tuesday (10th):
- International Friendly U-21: England vs. Uzbekistan - 2:30pm - FSC
- International Friendly: USA vs. Brazil - 8pm - ESPN2

Friday (13th):
- International Friendly: Bayern Munich (GER) vs. Real Madrid (SPA) - 2:55 -ESPN

SI predcicts EPL Standings

2010-08-06T12:32:00.000-04:00

Check out this great article where SI writer Georginia Turner predicts the finishing order of the EPL this year and examines the changes for each club - Premiership season predictions

Soccer TV Schedule for the week of 7/30

2010-07-30T20:53:00.000-04:00

Saturday (31st):
- EPL: Goals of the Season - 6pm - FSC

Sunday (1st):
- WPS: Atlanta Beat vs. FC Gold Pride - 5pm - FSC
- MLS: LA Galaxy vs. Chicago Fire - 7pm - FSC

Tuesday (3rd):
- CONCACAF CL: Motagua (HON) vs. Toronto (CAN) - 8pm - FSC
- CONCACAF CL: Metapan (SLV) vs. Seattle Sounders (USA) 10pm - FSC

Wednesday (4th):
- CONCACAF CL: Puerto Rico Islanders (PUR) vs. LA Galaxy (USA) - 8pm - FSC

Thursday (5th):

- MLS: Columbus Crew vs. Philadelphia Union - 8pm - ESPN2

- International Friendly: Dallas (USA) vs. Inter Milan (ITA) - 9pm - FSC

Friday (6th):

- International Friendly: AC Milan (ITA) vs. Panathinaikos (GRE) - 8pm - FSC

Barca admits that pursuit of Fabregas is off

2010-07-30T12:35:00.000-04:00

The Barcelona front office has stated that they will 'respect' Arsenal's wishes and end their pursuit of Spanish midfielder Cesc Fabregas. Barca has previously offered 35 million lira, but the London club had insisted they did not want to sell their captain. While Cesc has stated that he is happy to stay with Arsenal, I doubt this story will go away until the summer transfer window closes. However, it will be a lingering rumor for years to come if he doesn't make the switch.

For the full report click here.

England keeper James signs with Bristol City

2010-07-30T12:27:00.000-04:00

England goal keeper David James has signed a 1-year deal with Championship side Bristol City. James helped Portsmouth reach the FA Cup Final last season, but left the money troubled club on a free transfer. The move allows James to stay close to home and will be a solid keeper for the team to try seek promotion to the EPL. For the full report click here.

LA Galaxy Notes: Beckham's return and Signing Ronaldinho

2010-07-29T12:35:00.000-04:00

Grant Wahl's latest report is up at SI.com and has a few interesting factors around the LA Galaxy camp:

David Beckham could start training with the team again in the next week and could be back on the field for LA by the end of August. It will be interesting to see how Beckham lines back up with new rookie Michael Stephens.
He also reports that David had a big influence in convincing Henry to join the New York Red Bulls over the past year and is continuing his talks to bring Ronaldinho to the LA Galaxy next year.

For the full article click here.

Fulham Announce Mark Hughes as new manager

2010-07-29T12:21:00.001-04:00

Source: SI.com

LONDON (AP) -- British media reports say that Mark Hughes has agreed to manage Premier League club Fulham.

The Guardian and Daily Mail newspapers reported Wednesday night on their websites that the 46-year-old former Manchester City manager had agreed terms with the London club.

Fulham lost last season's Europa League final to Atletico Madrid.

After Roy Hodgson left to manage Liverpool, Martin Jol was pursued but Fulham's approaches were rebuffed by Ajax.

Hughes, a former striker for Manchester United and Chelsea, has been out of work since being fired by Man City in December.

Hughes' managerial career began in 1999 with Wales. He moved into club management in 2004 with Blackburn before leaving four years later to join City.

2010-07-28T20:11:00.000-04:00

Tonight is the MLS All-Star Game against Manchester United who are finishing up their US tour. Here is the full preview and breakdown of the match at MLS Soccer.com.

This is the first match between the teams. The MLS All-Stars have won three times in four matches against teams from the English Premier League since 2005, losing only to Everton in penalty kicks in 2009.

The MLS lineup includes US World Cup hero Landon Donovan, 2008 league MVP Guillermo Barros Schelotto, past World Cup selections in Brian Ching,Edson Buddle and Bobby Convey and seven-time MLS All-Star Shalrie Joseph.LA Galaxy coach and former US national team boss Bruce Arena leads the group.

Manchester United are in the middle of their preseason preparations, and several players that participated in the World Cup will not be playing on Wednesday night. The Red Devils still boast a star-studded lineup with the likes of superstars Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Dimitar Berbatov and Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez, who is the first Mexican player to sign with the Red Devils.

CONCACAF Champions League Tuesday Night Results

2010-07-28T08:48:00.001-04:00

Here is a look at the status of the CONCACAF Champions League Preliminary Round (Table provided by concacafchampions.com). For the most part the favorites won - three out of the four. However, the big result of the night was the 4-1 demolishing that the Puerto Rico Islanders handed to the LA Galaxy. LA was at home and its only goal of the night came as the result of a PR own goal. Their future in the competition looks bleak giving up 4 away goals.

PRELIMINARY ROUND

Aggr.	Motagua	0 - 1	Toronto
July 27	Toronto	1 - 0	Motagua	View events	More info
August 3	Motagua	8:00 PM	Toronto		More info
Aggr.	Santos	1 - 0	Jabloteh
July 27	Jabloteh	0 - 1	Santos	View events	More info
August 4	Santos	10:00 PM	Jabloteh		More info
Aggr.	Cruz Azul	3 - 2	San Francisco
July 27	San Francisco	2 - 3	Cruz Azul	View events	More info
August 3	Cruz Azul	8:00 PM	San Francisco		More info
Aggr.	Puerto Rico Islanders	4 - 1	Los Angeles Galaxy
July 27	Los Angeles Galaxy	1 - 4	Puerto Rico Isla…	View events	More info
August 4	Puerto Rico Isla…	8:00 PM	Los Angeles Galaxy		More info
Aggr.	Marathón		Tauro
July 28	Tauro	8:00 PM	Marathón		More info
August 4	Marathón	10:00 PM	Tauro		More info
Aggr.	Metapán		Seattle Sounders
July 28	Seattle Sounders	10:00 PM	Metapán		More info
August 3	Metapán	10:00 PM	Seattle Sounders		More info
Aggr.	Joe Public		Brujas
July 28	Brujas	10:00 PM	Joe Public		More info
August 5	Joe Public	8:00 PM	Brujas		More info
Aggr.	FAS		Xelajú
July 29	FAS	10:00 PM	Xelajú		More info
August 5	Xelajú	10:00 PM	FAS		More info

CONCACAF Champions League Kicks Off Tonight

2010-07-27T18:29:00.000-04:00

The 3rd edition of the current CONCACAF Champions League kicks off tonight with four matches featuring clubs from seven countries. Two matches will air live tonight on Fox Soccer Channel at 8pm and 10pm ET. Here is a look at the first round of qualifying matches:

LA Galaxy (USA) vs. Puerto Rico Islanders (PUR) - Preview from LA's website
Toronto (CAN) vs. Motagua (HON) - Preview from Toronto's website
Cruz Azul (MEX) vs. San Francisco (PAN)
Santos Laguna (MEX) vs. San Juan Jabloteh (TRI)

You can also can live action at the official CONCACAF Champions League Website. Predictions?

Menezes names Brazil squad to face U.S. in friendly

2010-07-27T12:29:00.001-04:00

SAO PAULO (AP) -- New coach Mano Menezes will try to restore the "Beautiful Game" to Brazil's national team, choosing a young roster Monday for the Selecao's first match after the World Cup.

Menezes picked AC Milan forward Alexandre Pato, Santos scoring sensation Neymar and Santos midfielder Paulo Henrique Ganso for the Aug. 10 exhibition against the United States, the first match as Brazil prepares to host the 2014 World Cup.

Manchester United defender Rafael da Silva, Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva and Real Madrid defender Marcelo also are on the 24-man roster for the match at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.

Click here for the full report - Menezes names Brazil squad to face U.S. in friendly

Chicago trades midfielder Mapp to Union

2010-07-26T20:25:00.002-04:00

SI.com Staff - "The Chicago Fire announced Monday that the team has traded midfielder Justin Mapp to the Philadelphia Union in exchange for allocation money.

"We would like to thank Justin for his contributions to the Chicago Fire and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors," said Chicago technical director Frank Klopas on its website.

Mapp was originally drafted by D.C. United as the fourth overall selection in the 2002 MLS SuperDraft. During his nine-year career, Mapp has registered 14 goals and 36 assists in 174 appearances."

This is a great move for the Union who were already on the upswing after a good run recently. Mapp will be another great attacking, creative player to link up with Le Toux, Mwanga, and Moreno

Chicago trades midfielder Mapp to Union

Wizards sell 700 season tickets after beating Manchester United

2010-07-26T20:05:00.003-04:00

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The Kansas City Wizards say they sold 700 season tickets after their exhibition win over Manchester United.

The Wizards beat the English power 2-1 Sunday on goals by Davy Arnaud and Kei Kamara before 52,342 at Arrowhead Stadium, the largest crowd to watch a soccer match in Kansas City.

Team spokesman Rob Thomson said Monday the new tickets were sold as the team opened the first 2,011 season tickets for next year to sales following the victory over the Red Devils.

Kansas City is scheduled to move next June to a $200 million, 18,500-seat stadium under construction at Village West.

Wizards sell 700 season tickets after beating Manchester United

MLS Table Update

2010-07-26T12:45:00.000-04:00

Here are the result for the past week (MLS matches only, no friendly results):

LA Galaxy 2-2 San Jose: At home, at night and on ESPN2 should all be extending factors toward a Galaxy win. After failing behind early Donovan saved a point with a late equalizer. LA has looked much weaker in their past 3 games despite earning 4 points. San Jose appear to be gaining strength and could pass Dallas for 3rd if they win out their games in hand.
Toronto 1-1 Dallas: The two number 3s battled to a 1-1 draw. I see Dallas as the stronger playoff team being in the tougher conference at the moment. Toronto have failed to score more than 1 goal since May.
Columbus 3-0 Houston: Earlier in the week they could have lost their Eastern lead, but reaffirmed their dominance with victories of New York and now Houston. Once dominate Western contenders have fallen well off the playoff race and are winless in their last seven.
Real Salt Lake 1-1 Chivas USA: After topping LA and beating down New England RSL seemed ready to take over the West. They ran their unbeaten home streak to 19 matches, but lacked their usual attacking power and missed a chance to gain on LA. Chivas while at the bottom of the West are only 9 points out of the playoffs so the Goats can turn things around once fully healthy and get Kljestan back.
Seattle 2-1 Colorado: First home win for Seattle in nearly two months, but the second in a row to bring them within a point of the playoffs at the All-Star break. The Rapids are now winless in their last six and need to straighten the ship with their next two matches coming up against Western conference mid-table foes Dallas and San Jose.

Here are the updated MLS table standings:

Pos	Club	Pts	GP	W	L	T	GF	GA	GD
Eastern Conference
1	Columbus Crew	34	17	10	3	4	25	13	+12
2	New York Red Bulls	26	16	8	6	2	18	19	−1
3	Toronto FC	23	16	6	5	5	19	18	+1
4	Chicago Fire	17	14	4	5	5	18	19	−1
5	Kansas City Wizards	16	16	4	8	4	13	20	−7
6	Philadelphia Union	14	14	4	8	2	18	26	−8
7	New England Revolution	14	15	4	9	2	15	26	−11
8	D.C. United	12	17	3	11	3	12	28	−16

Pos	Club	Pts	GP	W	L	T	GF	GA	GD
Western Conference
1	Los Angeles Galaxy	40	18	12	2	4	29	10	+19
2	Real Salt Lake	31	17	9	4	4	29	14	+15
3	FC Dallas	26	16	6	2	8	20	14	+6
4	San Jose Earthquakes	23	15	6	4	5	20	18	+2
5	Colorado Rapids	23	16	6	5	5	18	16	+2
6	Seattle Sounders FC	22	18	6	8	4	20	25	−5
7	Houston Dynamo	19	17	5	8	4	21	25	−4
8	Chivas USA	15	16	4	9	3	18	22	−4

Source: Wikipedia

New York Red Bulls and Henry creating exciting play

2010-07-25T19:16:00.000-04:00

The New York Red Bulls have had several quality players for the past few seasons in the MLS, but seemed to lack missing piece to carry the load with Juan Pablo Angel. Enter Thierry Henry. Two friendly against EPL sides Tottenham and Manchester City and the Red Bulls look like a very dangerous MLS side. Going 1-1 in the match-ups, scoring 3 goals (1 for Henry) the team was linking up well and kept the attack on throughout both games. Angel sat out with an injury, but expects to be in the line-up with Henry next Saturday as they take on the Houston Dynamo. This duo along with Dane Richards and Kandji could make a strong run against Columbus and try to break their two year reign atop the east.

Thoughts on Henry's debut so far?

2010 SuperLiga Update

2010-07-25T07:42:00.000-04:00

Group A

Team	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts
Houston Dynamo	3	2	1	0	4	2	+2	7
Puebla	3	2	0	1	5	3	+2	6
Chivas USA	3	1	1	1	3	3	0	4
Pachuca	3	0	0	3	2	6	−4	0

Group B

Team	Pld	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts
New England Revolution	3	3	0	0	3	0	+3	9
Morelia	3	1	1	1	7	4	+3	4
Chicago Fire	3	1	0	2	2	6	−4	3
UNAM	3	0	1	2	2	4	−2	1

Semi-Finals:

New England Revolution (USA) vs. Puebla (MEX) - August 4th
Houston Dynamo (USA) vs. Morelia (MEX) - August 5th

With both New England and Houston topping their groups the MLS has a good chance on taking the title back after UANL's win last year for the Mexican top flight. The Revolution are the only MLS team to ever win the SuperLiga trophy.

Arsenal bolsters roster with new signing Laurent Koscielny

2010-07-24T18:31:00.001-04:00

The Gunners have added another defender to their line-up for the upcoming EPL season. Wenger isn't rushing into the market to sign every big star or latest new hit from the World Cup like other EPL clubs - ManCity. After adding Chamakh Arsenal's defensive could be a very solid and young unit over the next few years. If they are able to keep Fabregas and bring in a top rated goal keeper they will definitely keep their 'Big 4' status and possibly bring home a new trophy. Thoughts on Wenger's latest move?

Newcomers Laurent Koscielny, Marouane Chamakh bolster Arsenal - Ben Lyttleton - SI.com

Drogba to miss the start of the EPL season

2010-07-24T10:43:00.000-04:00

Excerpts from the article at ESPN.com:

"Didier Drogba is likely to miss the start of the Premier League season after Chelsea confirmed the striker had undergone surgery on a groin problem.

Drogba was troubled with the complaint last season, despite scoring a personal best 29 league goals, and will be sidelined for around three weeks as he recovers from the operation.

The Ivory Coast international will certainly miss the remainder of Chelsea's pre-season fixtures and the Community Shield against Manchester United on August 8."

For the full article click here - Drogba to miss start of season after operation

China indicates it may bid to host World Cup in 2026

2010-07-24T10:37:00.004-04:00

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates(AP) -- China's Football Association has signaled it may bid for the World Cup in 2026, raising speculation that such a move could undermine the hopes of Japan, South Korea, Qatar and even Australia, which are in the running to host the 2022 tournament.

The winning bids for 2018 and 2022 will be announced Dec. 2, with a European country expected to be chosen for the earlier year. The emergence of China as a contender for 2026 could work in favor of the U.S. bid for 2022. Click below for the full story.

China indicates it may bid to host World Cup in 2026 - Soccer - SI.com

Soccer TV Schedule for the week of 7/24

2010-07-23T20:59:00.000-04:00

Saturday (24th):
- U-20 Women's World Cup: Sweden vs. Columbia - 1pm - ESPNU
- U-20 Women's World Cup: Germany vs. North Korea - 3pm - ESPNU
- US U-19 National Championship - 8:30pm - FSC

Sunday (25th):

- U-20 Women's World Cup: USA vs. Nigeria - 10:30am - ESPNU

- U-20 Women's World Cup: Mexico vs. South Korea - 12:30pm - ESPNU

- International Friendly: Tottenham (ENG) vs. Sporting Club (POR) - 1pm - FSC
- International Friendly: Manchester City (ENG) vs. New York Red Bulls (USA) - 3:30pm - FSC
- International Friendly: Manchester United (ENG) vs. Kansas City Wizards (USA) - 5:30pm - FSC
- MLS: Seattle Sounders vs. Colorado Rapids - 10:30pm - FSC

Tuesday (27th):
- CONCACAF CL: Toronto (CAN) vs. Motagua (HON) - 8pm - FSC
- CONCACAF CL: LA Galaxy (USA) vs. PR Islanders (PUR) - 10pm - FSC

Wednesday (28th):

- MLS All-Star Game: MLS vs. Manchester United - 8:30pm - ESPN2

- CONCACAF CL: Seattle Sounders (USA) vs. Metapan (SLV) - 10pm - FSC

Thursday (29th):

- U-20 Women's World Cup: Semi-Final (Teams TBD) - 9:30am - ESPNU

- U-20 Women's World Cup: Semi-Final (Teams TBD) - 12:30pm - ESPNU

MLS Table Update

2010-07-22T10:07:00.000-04:00

Here are the results for the past week:

Columbus 0-1 Kansas City: Surprising win for the Wizards on the road, which might bring them back into playoff contention.
DC United 0-1 Seattle: The Sounders are back on the winning path....against the league's worst team.
Philadelphia 2-1 Toronto: Outside of LA's strong early run I've been the most impressed by the Union's performance in their first season, including a great game against Manchester United last night.
Columbus 2-0 New York Red Bulls: The Crew won the battle for the top of the East as the Red Bulls prepare to add Henry to the mix.
Dallas 2-0 Real Salt Lake: Becoming a strong contender in the West and overall playoff picture giving the champs their first loss in 11 matches.
Colorado 1-1 Kansas City: A good week for the Wizards picking up 4 points on the road.
DC United 1-2 Los Angeles: US national teammates Edson Buddle and Landon Donovan both scored to put away three points for the Galaxy in their 12th win of the season.

Here is a look at the Eastern Conference Standings:

Pos	Club	Pts	GP	W	L	T	GF	GA	GD
Eastern Conference
1	Columbus Crew	31	16	9	3	4	22	13	+9
2	New York Red Bulls	26	16	8	6	2	18	19	−1
3	Toronto FC	22	15	6	5	4	18	17	+1
4	Chicago Fire	17	14	4	5	5	18	19	−1
5	Kansas City Wizards	16	16	4	8	4	13	20	−7
6	Philadelphia Union	14	14	4	8	2	18	26	−8
7	New England Revolution	14	15	4	9	2	15	26	−11
8	D.C. United	12	17	3	11	3	12	28	−1

....and the Western Conference Standings:

Pos	Club	Pts	GP	W	L	T	GF	GA	GD
Western Conference
1	Los Angeles Galaxy	39	17	12	2	3	27	8	+19
2	Real Salt Lake	30	16	9	4	3	28	13	+15
3	FC Dallas	25	15	6	2	7	17	13	+4
4	Colorado Rapids	23	15	6	4	5	16	13	+3
5	San Jose Earthquakes	22	14	6	4	4	18	16	+2
6	Houston Dynamo	19	16	5	7	4	21	22	−1
7	Seattle Sounders FC	19	17	5	8	4	18	24	−6
8	Chivas USA	14	15	4	9	2	17	21	−4

Source: Wikipedia

EPL Transfer Update: ManCity target Landon Donovan

2010-07-21T16:09:00.000-04:00

Following up on the two part post earlier this week covering the EPL transfer rumors comes talk that ManCity could be after US and LA Galaxy star Landon Donovan. After a successful stint in the EPL last season with Everton Mancini could try to add the American midfielder to his line-up for another late season loan or a permanent deal. However, the MLS is unlikely to let Donovan leave unless the amount is in the $15-20 million range. The one team that would and could spend that money on such a player - Manchester City.

Manchester City target Landon Donovan - ESPN Soccernet

Champions League to use two extra assistant referees

2010-07-21T15:56:00.001-04:00

After the success of adding extra refs in the Europa League UEFA has elected to move an additional referee behind each goal. The adding assistance will help with identify questionable goals and goal-box fouls. The move comes after a very controversial run in the 2010 World Cup which saw goals dis-allowed that had either crossed the line or were called back due to errant fouls.

Champions League to use two extra assistant referees - Soccer - SI.com

EPL Transfer Rumors: Clubs M-Z

2010-07-20T16:16:00.000-04:00

Here is the second part of the EPL transfer rumor story taking a look at the clubs from M to Z.

Manchester City: Already signed David Silva and Yaya Toure, now seeking to add James Milner and Mesut Ozil with their endless wealth.
Manchester United: Except a youth movement to most likely happen at Old Trafford, but they have been linked with Xavi, Wesley Sneijder, and Stephen Ireland.
Newcastle United: Not many big signings expected as they try to remain in the positive this time around and in the EPL. Perhaps a few transfers for Jack Wilshire or Vladimir Weiss.
Stoke City: Could try to steal David Bently or Jermaine Jenas from the Spurs.
Sunderland: Maynor Figeuroa and Sol Campbell could be targets for Steve Bruce.
Tottenham: With Champions League football ahead for the Spurs they can attract better talent includng Diego Forlan and Luis Fabiano.
West Brom Albion: Steve Sidwell is the only mid-level named connected at this point who will just want to survive.
West Ham United: In the need for creative goal scorers the Hammers may move for Kevin Prince Boateng or Tuncay Sanli.
Wigan: No major moves have been linked with Wigan at the time with a tight budget.
Wolverhamption: Already brought in Stephen Hunt and Steven Fletcher, and are targeting central defender Jamie O'Hara.

Click here for the full story over at CNN's Sports Illustrated - EPL Transfer Rumors

Liverpool to sign Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole

2010-07-19T16:01:00.000-04:00

As guessed yesterday, ESPN's Soccernet is reporting that Chelsea midfielder has signed a free transfer deal with Liverpool. The 28 year old will be swapping teams with Israeli Yossi Benayoun who moved to Chelsea last month. Cole will be expected to help Liverpool regain top four status and back into the UEFA Champions League. However, it remains to be seen if fellow World Cuppers Steven Gerrand and Fernando Torres will be staying at Anfield. Head here for the full story on Joe Cole's move.

EPL Transfer Rumors: Clubs A-L

2010-07-18T21:12:00.001-04:00

With the World Cup now a full week behind us the European transfer market is the main focus for most clubs. Here is a look at a few of the potential moves for EPL clubs A through L:

Arsenal: Mesut Ozil and Sebastian Frey
Aston Villa: Stephen Ireleand
Birmingham City: Robbie Keane, Charles N'Zogbia, and Ryan Babel
Blackburn: Asamoah Gyan
Blackpool: Michael Bradley
Bolton: David Nugent and Martin Petrov
Chelsea: Bastain Schweinsteiger
Everton: No significant moves rumored after signed several players already
Fulham: A new head coach is the focus of this club at the moment, including possibly USMNT boss Bob Bradley.
Liverpool: Joe Cole and Peter Crouch

For the full story over at CNN's Sports Illustrated head here - Premiere League Transfers

New York Yankees to bid for the Spurs?

2010-07-18T20:42:00.000-04:00

CNN's FanHouse affiliate and the Daily Star in England are reporting that the Steinbrenner brothers are thinking of submitting a bid for the Tottenham Spurs now that they are the controlling owners of the New York Yankees. While still mostly a rumor at this point this could turn out to be a very productive pairing. The Yankees are one of the most profitable and well followed franchises in the world (in all of sport) and would love to be paired up with a top soccer club from London. The Yankes/Steinbrenner's money would enable the Spurs to keep up with Chelsea, ManU, Arsenal, and ManCity on the money front. If the Yankee owners were to place a takeover bid and win they would become the 4th American owners of an EPL club. Check out the full report here.

Soccer TV Schedule for the week of 7/17

2010-07-16T15:32:00.000-04:00

Saturday (17th):
- Women's U-20 World Cup: USA vs. Switzerland - 12pm - ESPNU
- International Friendly: San Jose Earthquakes (USA) vs. Tottenham (ENG) - 4pm - ESPN
- Women's U-20 World Cup: Ghana vs. South Korea - 5pm - ESPNU
- Women's International Friendly: USA vs. Sweden - 7:30 - FSC - Second meeting in four days.
- WPS: Boston Breakers vs. Washington Freedom - 5pm - FSC
- MLS: DC United vs. LA Galaxy - 7pm - FSC

Sunday (18th):
- International Friendly: Seattle Sounders (USA) vs. Celtic (SCO) - 3pm - ESPN

Tuesday (19th):
- Women's U-20 World Cup: Germany vs. France - 1pm - ESPNU

Wednesday (21st):
- Women's U-20 World Cup: USA vs. South Korea - 12pm - ESPN2
- International Friendly: Philadelphia Union (USA) vs. Manchester United (ENG) - 7:30pm - ESPN2
- International Friendly: Celtic (SCO) vs. Sporting Club (POR) - 8pm - FSC
- Women's U-20 World Cup: Japan vs. England - 9pm - ESPNU
- Women's U-20 World Cup: Ghana vs. Switzerland - 11pm - ESPNU

Thursday (22nd):
- International Friendly: New York Red Bulls (USA) vs. Tottenham (ENG) - 8:30pm - FSC
- MLS: LA Galaxy vs. San Jose Earthquakes - 10:30pm - ESPN2

Friday (23rd):

- International Friendly: Sporting Club (POR) vs. Manchester City (ENG) - 8:30pm - FSC

New Format Coming Soon For The Free Kicks Report

2010-07-15T21:50:00.000-04:00

I have decided to change the format of The Free Kicks Report in order to bring you more news, reports and opinions. Traditionally over the past year I have posted one post a day at about four to five days a week. I've enjoyed the writing the longer posts in order to discuss each of the weekend's results, talk about the current standings, and the latest news and rumors. However, I feel as though there are often times where multiple stories break each day that I would like to be able to update you on in shorter posts versus one long post. With that being said over the next week or two expect to see the format shift to 2-4 posts a day covering soccer news, transfer rumors, league results/standings, video games, etc.

Please feel free to leave me some feedback on what you think about this switch. Are there any topics you would like to see me cover that I traditionally do not? I expect to continue to cover the MLS, USSF D2, EPL, Serie A, UEFA, World Cup, etc.

New York Red Bulls sign French international Thierry Henry

2010-07-14T21:57:00.000-04:00

"Stop the rumors about French forward Thierry Henry joining the New York Red Bulls. He's here. The 32-year-old former Arsenal and Barcelona player signed a multiyear contract on Wednesday and he is expected to make his Red Bulls' debut on July 22 in an exhibition against Premier League club Tottenham.

"Some people might think I am going to go there for vacation — I do actually go there for vacation — but it won't be for vacation this time," Henry said in a video interview on the club website. "I'm a competitor and I don't like to lose."

Henry was released by Barcelona last month after scoring just four goals last season. "This marks an exciting new chapter in my career and life," Henry said. Henry will be introduced at a news conference on Thursday at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, N.J."

AP - Full Report

Theirry Henry will be formal announced tomorrow at a Red Bulls press conference and will be able to play his first match in a friendly against Tottenham next week. This is clearly the second biggest MLS signing of all time - behind Beckham - and a great post-World Cup move for the league. Depsite his hand ball incident and the French team's poor performance in South Africa, Henry has been one of the top players in the world for the past decade. I think he can make an immediate impact in NY with Juan Pablo Angel up top and could overtake the Crew for 1st place in the East with a win on Saturday.

Thoughts and Predictions on the big signing?

US Open Cup Update

2010-07-13T21:37:00.000-04:00

The US' oldest soccer tournament is down to five teams - with the last quarterfinal match scheduled for July 21st. With a ton of action over the past few weeks - World Cup & the MLS and several new tournaments about to kick off - CONCACAF Champions League & SuperLiga - the US Open Cup still remains in the background. This tournament has such great potential with its long history if it could just get more support from the MLS and get a TV contract. With that being said here is a recap of the 3rd and 4th rounds.

Final 16:

Harrisonburg City Islanders 1-0 New York Red Bulls
DC United 2-0 Richmond Kickers
Charleston Battery 0-0 Chicago Fire - Charleston 3-0 on penalties
Columbus Crew 1-0 Rochester Rhinos
Chivas USA 1-0 Austin Aztex
Houston Dynamo 1-0 Miami FC
LA Galaxy 2-0 AC St. Louis
Seattle Sounders 1-1 Portland Timbers - Seattle 4-3 on penalties

Quarterfinals:

Harrisonburg City Islanders vs. DC United - Scheduled for July 21st
Columbus Crew 3-0 Charleston Battery
Chivas USA 3-1 Houston Dynamo
Seattle Sounders 2-0 LA Galaxy

Semi-Finals:

Columbus Crew vs. Harrisonburg/DC United winner
Chivas USA vs. Seattle Sounders

Of the remaining teams Columbus would look the clear favorite on paper, but the Crew are most likely to put forth the B-team in this tournament with the CONCACAF Champions League and MLS action on the schedule during the same weeks. Chivas and Seattle are also in additional tournaments of their own this summer, leaving DC United as the sole MLS club only focused on the Cup (in addition to league play). I think DC United will push forward if they make it to the final four as this is their best chance for hardware this year after a horrible start in the MLS.

Thoughts? Predictions?

MLS Table Update as of 7/12/10

2010-07-12T21:42:00.000-04:00

- Past week's results:

Two late week match-ups saw defending champions, Real Salt Lake top Chicago 1-0 and Toronto extended their unbeaten run to eight matches against Colorado with a 1-0 victory.
San Jose 2-1 Philadelphia - The Union tried to follow up their great stadium opening win over Seattle with another over the visiting Earthquakes. They got the early goal and everything seemed to be going smoothly. As the game built San Jose's confidence grew and a stoppage time goal stole 3 points for the West coast team.
New England 2-0 LA Galaxy - The big upset of the week as the struggled Revolution stunned the MLS league leaders by two. On the road and without Donovan definitely hurt LA, but on the whole their defense still played a great games. The Galaxy's offensive spark was not the same this weekend and need to bounce back quickly as RSL is charging fast.
DC United 0-0 New York Red Bulls - NY had several good chances in a mostly lackluster match-up. The big news surrounding this game had more to do with the pending announcement of Thierry Henry joining the Red Bulls than the action on the field.
Columbus 0-0 Houston - These two sides should be able to put on a better performance will so many quality players on the field. Three shots on goal - total - for both clubs combined. The Crew can fall back on the fact that they were on the road and leading the East, but Houston needed to win this game (I'm looking at you Brian Ching and that tap in miss).
Chivas USA 2-0 Kansas City - Chivas' first win in eight matches against another of the league's bottom clubs. The Goats have always had the talent to compete and score week in and week out, but usually can't control the game. Two Justin Braun goals picked apart a soft Wizard defensive.
Seattle 1-1 FC Dallas - The Sounders are still winless against the Western conference and it took a wonder strike from Ferreira to save a point for Dallas. Seattle started a very young line-up, got the early goal and dominated play until a red card in the second half - perhaps a casualty of that youth. Ferreira now has four goals in the last five matches and is a forming a great strike force with Brek Shea and Jeff Cunningham.

- Current MLS Table:

East: NY (26) missed a golden opportunity to catch Columbus (28) this week by not putting away DC United, and everyones expectations will only grow as the season continues with the big announcement scheduled for later this week. Toronto (22) and Chicago (17) are both quality MLS sides when all the pieces and health issues come together. While the playoff spots seem rather set even half way through the season, Philadelphia continues to impress as a young club with a new stadium and could be a contender next year.
West: The LA loss closes the gap between them at the champs (RSL) to 6 points and an extra game played, but make no mistake about it - these two teams are far away the leaders in the West at 36 and 30 points respectively. Dallas's latest win created a three way tie for 3rd with Colorado and San Jose at 22 points. Seattle (16) are dangerously close to becoming the bottom of the West and continue to be a major disappointment for their fans and the MLS in general.

Thoughts?

Soccer TV Schedule for the week of 7/10

2010-07-09T12:49:00.000-04:00

While this week is obviously headlined by the mecca of soccer games, it actually is shaping up to be a good week of action. Saturday we have the 3rd place match-up, a MLS game and a great international friendly set to take place at the Rose Bowl. Sunday the world will be watching as either the Netherlands or Spain wins its first ever World Cup trophy. Tuesday night, the #1 ranked USA Women's National Team takes on Sweden in a friendly, which leads into a double header on Wednesday in the U-20 Women's World Cup. Thursday night is the standard MLS game of the week and we wrap it up with Manchester United vs. Celtic as the Red Devils start their US tour.

Saturday (10th):
- World Cup: Third Place Match - Germany vs. Uruguay - 2pm - ABC
- MLS: San Jose Earthquakes vs. Philadelphia Union - 5:30pm - FSC
- Friendly: Cruz Azul vs. Club America - 10pm - FSC

Sunday (11th):
- World Cup: Final - Netherlands vs. Spain - 1:30pm - ABC
- WPS: FC Gold Pride vs. Washington Freedom - 6pm - FSC

Tuesday (13th):
- International Friendly (Women): USA vs. Sweden - 9pm - ESPN

Wednesday (14th):
- Women's U-20 World Cup: USA vs. Ghana - 12pm - ESPNU
- Women's U-20 World Cup: Switzerland vs. South Korea - 6pm - ESPNU

Thursday (15th):
- MLS: DC United vs. Seattle Sounders - 8pm - ESPN2

Friday (16th):
- International Friendly: Manchester United vs. Celtic - 7pm - ESPN2

Besides the obvious, which match are you looking forward to the most?