FOOTBALL

Javier Hernandez has admitted he would have loved to play for his country in the Olympics, but the Manchester United striker says he's equally glad he's been able to participate in his club's pre-season training.

Brendan Rodgers has revealed that he will assess whether Alberto Aquilani fits into his plans at Liverpool over the course of the pre-season, with the playmaker returning from yet another loan spell in Italy to have a shot at stardom in Merseyside.

Veteran Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has said he is all set to hold talks with the Blues over a contract that will see him finish his professional career at Stamford Bridge

Mikel Arteta has revealed his admiration for fellow Spaniard Santi Cazorla who has been strongly linked with a move from Malaga to Arsenal in recent days.

Tottenham goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes has revealed how unhappy he was with life at the club under Harry Redknapp who seemingly refused to allow the player to leave White Hart Lane in order to find regular first team football.

For those who believe that the respective Team GB football squads haven't endured pain and heartbreak to reach the summer's Olympic Games, you need only look in the direction of Tom Cleverley.

Manchester United may still be in with a chance of landing Sao Paulo midfielder Lucas Moura after hearing comments from the clubs vice president suggesting that he is willing to further negotiate with the Premier League side.

Former Olympic silver medallist Steve Cram believes the target of eight athletics medals set by head coach Charles van Commenee during the London 2012 Olympics is realistic.

Check out a brief preview of the first serious pre-season friendly for both Arsenal and Manchester City, as well as information on where and how to watch Roberto Mancini's men take on Arsene Wenger's Gunners

Chelsea have confirmed the transfer of Brazilian midfielder Oscar for a reported fee of £25m. Oscar is Chelsea's fourth signing of the summer, following deals for Belgian brothers Eden and Thorgan Hazard and German Marko Marin

Angry North Korea players abandon Hampden Park stadium after televised image shows them next to South Korean flag.

Alan Pardew believes that Liverpool should accept that they will make a loss on Andy Carroll, as Newcastle look to sign the striker this summer and herald his return to St James' Park.

Former England captain David Beckham, left out of GB football squad, will have role in London 2012 Olympic opening.

Witsel will only be sold if release clause is met

Rio Ferdinand says he's not bothered by the fact that he's in the last year of his contract with Manchester United, with the defender insisting that Sir Alex Ferguson will deal with the matter in due course.

Arsenal captain Robin van Persie should join Manchester United over Manchester City this summer, according to former defender Gary Pallister.

Tottenham boss is said to be interested in Porto midfielder Christian Atsu

Manchester United had to fight off competition from Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City to sign Nick Powell, according to Sir Alex Ferguson, with the midfielder in high demand as he starred for Crewe in their promotion season.

The Premier League have introduced specific guidelines over how footballers should use social media, in the wake of Emmanuel Frimpong being charged for referring to a Tottenham fan in a derogatory manner.

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has stated that striker Andy Carroll still has a future at Anfield.

League One club could be liquidated in just over two weeks if compromise over player’s wages is not met.

Tottenham Hotspur are believed to have enquired about the availability of Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Willian as they seek possible alternatives for wantaway playmaker Luka Modric.

Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong has been charged by the Football Association with improper conduct following a recent Twitter post.

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas was forced to explain the reason that Gareth Bale was able to feature in a pre-season friendly against LA Galaxy despite being forced to withdraw from the Team GB squad for the London Olympics.

Thierry Henry has revealed that he wants to return to Arsenal for a third time, with the striker not ruling out the possibility of working for the club in a managerial capacity.

Fabio Borini has spoken of his admiration for new manager Brendan Rodgers after taking part in his first training session with his new teammates on Tuesday.

Manchester United remain favourites to sign Sao Paulo midfielder Lucas Moura this summer, after the player's agent revealed that the 19-year-old is still keen on a move to Old Trafford.

Former Reds manager Kenny Daglish spent a total of around £63 million in transfers.

Newcastle United have seemingly pulled the plug on any potential deal for Lille defender Mathieu Debuchy after failing to agree a transfer fee with the Ligue 1 club.