Nigeria's Mikel Obi Out Of Mozambique Clash

Chelsea midfielder Mikel John Obi is expected to join up with the rest of the Nigeria squad later today in South Africa, but will not feature in Sunday's World Cup tie against Mozambique. "He has been ordered to join the team and I am right now at the airport waiting to pick [up] both he and [Joseph] Yobo," said team official Idah Peterside, on the phone from Johannesburg. "He will be part of the squad to Maputo but he will not play." Everton defender Yobo is also ruled out of this match with a hamstring injury but has opted to fly down to South Africa and cheer the team. Mikel earlier this week informed Nigeria coach Shuaibu Amodu that he is unwell and may therefore not be available for the Mozambique match. Chelsea formally informed the Nigeria Football Fedration (NFF) that Mikel is suffering from a throat infection. Hmm! With or without Mikel, do we really have a team that we can beat our chest to boast about a resounding victory come sunday. My greatest worry is that we are playing a country like Muzambique and even the coach can't be categorical about his team winning, this only points to the fact that we are far away from having a team we thought Amodu was building for the country. 2010, is just around the corner ooh!

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester City are setting their sights high, with Bayern Munich midfielder Franck Ribery, Barcelona striker Thierry Henry, Chelsea skipper John Terry and Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz all transfer targets. (The Times) Liverpool may make a £9m bid for Valencia centre-back Raul Albiol if Daniel Agger refuses to sign a new deal to keep him at Anfield. (Various) Real Madrid's Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart says he would like to join Chelsea, if his compatriot Guus Hiddink stays on as manager. (The Sun) Hiddink, meanwhile, has urged Chelsea to bid for Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko. (Various) AC Milan are lining up a £15m summer bid for Arsenal left-back Gael Clichy. (Various) Everton defender Joseph Yobo will be offered a new £6m contract in the hope of fending off interest from Arsenal and Chelsea. (Daily Mirror) Wigan are interested in signing Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton and will move for him at the end of the season. (The Sun) Tottenham midfielder Tom Huddlestone has alerted Aston Villa, Newcastle and Everton by admitting he has concerns about his future at White Hart Lane. (Daily Mail) Jeremie Aliadiere will quit Middlesbrough if they are relegated and the striker could make a shock return to Arsenal. (Daily Mirror) Boro defender Emanuel Pogatetz also says he will leave the club if they are relegated. (The Sun) Blackburn defender Andre Ooijer has confirmed he will return to PSV Eindhoven next season. (Various) Birmingham striker Kevin Phillips is wanted by Australian side Perth Glory. (Daily Star) Arsenal's highly-rated young midfielder Mark Randall is wanted on loan by Blackpool. (Daily Mirror) Ipswich and Watford are keeping tabs on Barnet striker John O'Flynn. (Daily Star) Bristol City striker Dele Adebola is a target for Sheffield United. (Daily Mirror) Celtic are weighing up a £2m summer swoop for highly-rated 23-year-old Espanyol midfielder Jordi Gomez who is currently on loan at Swansea City. (Various)

Adebayor will start for Togo despite long-term absence at Arsenal

Emmanuel Adebayor will play for Togo in their World Cup qualifier against Cameroon on Saturday despite not appearing for Arsenal since the start of February due to a hamstring injury picked up in the goalless draw at Tottenham. The 25-year-old has travelled to Accra and Togo's coach Jean Thissen has confirming the forward will feature. "Ade did not come here for nothing, he is here to play against Cameroon," Thissen said. "He is the main man for the national team. He is my captain, the nation can count on him. He has always given his best for the country so he will be a boost to the squad. He is a wonderful player." The selection of Adebayor is unlikely to go down well with the Arsenal manager, Arsène Wenger, who will not want the player to aggravate the injury at such a crucial stage in the season. Sure this will really not go down well not just with Arsène Wenger alone but with the fans especially if he gets back from the international game jaded...

Arsenal Midfielder Nasri Negates Zidane Comparisons

It is easy to compare France's World Cup winning No. 10 Zinedine Zidane to Arsenal's burgeoning starlet Samir Nasri. Both share an Algerian heritage, have identical nationalities, are sons of south coast city Marseille, they play similar roles and are technically skilled. However, Nasri refuses to entertain the analogies, claiming he is "flattered" that such comparisons are made, but he believes it is a "mistake" to be likened to the legend. "To be honest, this comparison is a load of nonsense," Nasri explained to L’Equipe. "It is flattering, but it is a mistake." The attack-minded midfielder then went on to praise Yoann Gourcuff, Bordeaux's young star on loan from Serie A giants Milan. "He had a hard time during his stay with Milan," Nasri said. "Many people wrote him off too quickly. But, as far as I am concerned, I was always aware of his potential." Nasri has enjoyed a fine rookie season in the Premier League under the tutelage of Alsatian manager Arsene Wenger. He famously downed Manchester United at the Emirates by scoring a well-taken deuce. We would all agree that Nasri is a load of talent and has shown a lot of promise this season playing for the gunners... all gunners i believe can now raise their heads with the way the team is presently playing 16 games unbeaten , hopefully we could create an upset nobody is given us a chance to

LOST CITIES OF THE WORLD ... TROY

Myth, folklore, mystery, and intrigue surround the ancient city of Troy like no other ruin on Earth. Once thought to be purely imaginary, a prop in Homer's epic poem The Iliad, excavations in northwestern Turkey in 1871 eventually proved that the city indeed existed.

In 1871, German adventurer Heinrich Schliemann began digging at Hisarlik, Turkey, (shown here) in search of the fabled city. His roughshod excavation wrought havoc on the site, but revealed nine ancient cities, each built on top of the next and dating back some 5,000 years. At the time, most archaeologists were skeptical that Troy was among the ruins, but evidence since the discovery suggests the Trojan capital indeed lies within the site.

LOST CITIES OF THE WORLD

The earliest Maya began to settle the dense rain forests of southwestern Mexico and Guatemala some 3,000 years ago. For nearly 1,400 years, settlements arose throughout the region, with some, like Tikal and Palenque (shown here), expanding into large, vibrant city-states. Although the archaeological discovery of Machu Picchu came nearly a hundred years ago, historians are still unsure of the function of this ancient Inca citadel.

The Inca had no system of writing and left no written records, and archaeologists have been left to piece together bits of evidence as to why Machu Picchu was built, what purpose it served, and why it was so quickly vacated.

LOST CITIES OF THE WORLD

The breathtaking city of Petra was a vibrant trading hub that vanished from most maps in the seventh century A.D. It lay beneath a thousand years of dust and debris when, in 1812, a Swiss scholar disguised as a Bedouin trader identified the ruins as the ancient Nabataean capital. Spread throughout a series of remote desert canyons in southern Jordan, Petra arose more than 2,000 years ago at the crossroads of key caravan trade routes between Arabia, Syria, Palestine, and Egypt. The Nabataeans carved most of the sprawling city's buildings, including temples, tombs, and theaters, directly into the region's towering red sandstone cliffs. Here, a Bedouin walks his camel past Petra's most famous building, Al Khazneh, or the Treasury

SIMPLY STEEL! A CLASS ACT

Steel is a youthful, Urban RnB/Afro-Hip-hop musican.He hails from Delta state. Born Abbey Chile Abuede, on 24th dec.As a child he toyed with many hubbies that could have brought him into limelight or made him the man with “nerves of steel” that he is. Football was his first love (even though he still nurses the dream of playing for the “youthful” F.C of Arsenal) before dazzling into music that brought him fame and fortune and also made him the darling of the young and old alike.

At age 15, he showed his dexterity by winning the keenly contested first edition of African/Latin American barbing awards and being the first winner of the prestigious award.He was in a group called Hy-Profile where he was the lead vocalist and also doubled as the leader of the group. Before the release of his debut solo career single on the stable of his new record label (YES RECORDS)”Omoge” he was already a fashion and style icon having made the Nigerian fashion industry his turf with his nationally acclaimed “Niddles n Stitches”.

Sexy Steel as he is popularly called by his female fans and admirers has made cameo appearance in couple of musical videos with Olu Maintain (Yahooze), 9ice to mention but a few. This multi-talented artiste studied Fine-Art in college where he was one of the finest in his Set. Innovative, humorous, nurturing, creative, visionary, stylish, respectful, versatile are the few adjectives that best describes this 8th wonder.

SIMPLY WOW!

Oculus is the first “design launch” of Schöpfer Yachts LLC. This 250-foot vessel was designed by E. Kevin Schöpfer, founder and owner of his namesake company. Designed to accommodate 12 guests in extraordinary comfort and style, Oculus is a long distance cruising yacht capable of speeds upwards of 25 knots. The exterior styling is representative of the jaw and eye socket bone structure of large oceanic fish and mammals. Featuring a dramatic reverse bow configuration, the yacht’s armature balances an elegant expression of symmetry and structure. well, you guys who are dreamers like me waiting to own their own yacth someday, this is an enticing toy at the back yard...

WORLDS MOST EXPENSIVE IPHONE

If you’re a fan of luxury phones, you’re going to like this. The iPhone has currently been luxed up by Australian jeweler Peter Aloisson. The result is the iPhone Princess Plus - the world’s most expensive iPhone. 138 of the total amount of diamonds are “princess cut” stones, which is where the name iPhone Princess Plus comes from. The other 180 diamonds used the brilliant cut. These diamonds total 17.75 carats and are inlaid on 18k white gold. The price of this sparkling baby is $176,400. Of course, an alternative version containing only the brilliant-cut diamonds is available for “only” $66,150. wow! this is definitely a collector's item... for lagos holdup no try pick or make dat call ooh !

JUST HUMOUR!

Hey guys just thought it good to share this wit ya all... A popular motivational speaker was entertaining his audience. He Said: "The best years of my life were spent in the arms of a woman who wasn't my wife!" The audience was in silence and shock. The speaker added: "And that woman was my mother!" Laughter and applause. A week later, a top manager trained by the motivational speaker tried to crack this very effective joke at home. He was a bit foggy after a drink. He said loudly to his wife who was preparing dinner, "The greatest years of my life were spent in the arms of a woman who was not my wife!" The wife went; "ah!" with shock and rage. Standing there for 20 seconds trying to recall the second half of the joke, the manager finally blurted out "...and I can't remember who she was!" By the time the manager regained his consciousness, he was on a hospital bed nursing burns from boiling water. Moral of the story: Don't copy if you can't paste!

GXPLOITS SET FOR EXPLOITS!

At a time when the 'good' music lovers in Nigeria were about to give-up on tack team effort music in Nigeria, emerge these charming, multi-talented and elegant lads called GXPLOITS.A new generation of talent is poised on the cusp of the come-up. The nation is about to witness a group of musicians whose musical prowess, high energy and artistic ability epitomize the phrase “Work Ethics”. Born into the 80's, all male R'n'B/Dance Pop triad, Lagos thorough-bred, and based in Lagos. These sublime singers and performers came into existence in 2002 as a Gospel/A-Capella group going to different churches in Lagos performing and trying to establish a name. They released a single “Your Man” in 2007 and the song gained massive air play and rocked that age. Even though, they came from different backgrounds and different states origin, these young lads defines unity even in their irresistible vocal harmonies and their complex performance routine that will surely groove you.Olufemi Amusan a.k.a.Phemmy,Okey Uzoeshi a.k.a.Okey,Seun Oyedokun a.k.a. Shay comprise the ensemble known as Gxploits and they came into prominence with unique flair, coupled with the discipline and tenacity that breeds chart-topping songs like"Bolu Molu Merente and Tear Rubber” which was produced by A-list producers I.D Cabasa and Zeeno Foster. I knew these guys before now and as raw as their talents were then they sure were class to listen to and watche on stage... thumbs up guys!

WOMEN DRIVERS AWARD

I have had these pictures of the top 10 winners of the "Women Dreivers Award". The photos are displayed from the 1st position to the 10th ... what do u think!

EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR NAMED AFRICAN PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Togo international Emmanuel Adebayor was Tuesday night named CAF African Player of the Year for 2008 at an elaborate awards ceremony in Lagos. Adebayor beat Mohamed Aboutrika of Egypt and Ghana’s Michael Essien to win the prestigious award, which involved voting by the national team coaches of CAF’s member-nations. “This is a special night for me. I dedicate this award to my mum, without her, I would be nothing. My father is no more but where ever he is, he will be proud of me,” said Adebayor, who was accompanied by his mother. Adebayor took away a crystal trophy and a cash prize of $20,000. This is the first time that a Togolese will be voted as Africa’s best player. The Arsenal star's exploits of the past year were mainly with his English Premier League club. In the absence of France international Thierry Henry, who moved to Spanish club Barcelona, the Togo star stepped up to finish the season with an impressive tally of 30 goals. The striker also inspired Togo to reach the final qualifying round for the 2010 World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations. congrats to all gunners! The awards night was graced by many dignitaries including FIFA president Joseph Blatter and CAF president Issa Hayatou. Ahly’s Aboutrika got a consolation prize as the Inter-Club Player of the Year. The list of award winners: CAF Player of the Year Emmanuel Adebayor - Togo/Arsenal CAF Young Player Salomon Kalou - Ivory Coast/Chelsea CAF Female Player Alice Matlou - South Africa National Team of the Year Egypt Coach of the Year Hassan Shehata - Egypt Best Club Ahly - Egypt Inter-Club Player of the Year Mohamed Aboutrika - Al Ahly African Legend Christian Chukwu - Nigeria

THE MAYONNAISE JAR

just felt should let you guys read this... When things in your life seem, Almost too much to handle, When 24 Hours in a day is not enough, Remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee. A professor stood before his philosophy class And had some items in front of him. When the class began, wordlessly, He picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar And proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students, If the jar was full. They agreed that it was. The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open Areas between the golf balls. He then asked The students again If the jar was full.. They agreed it was. The professor next picked up a box of sand And poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded With an unanimous 'yes.' The professor then produced Two cups of coffee from under the table And poured the entire contents Into the jar, effectively Filling the Empty space between the sand. The students laughed. 'Now,' said the professor, As the laughter subsided, 'I want you to recognize that This jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things - God, family, children, health, Friends, and Favorite passions – Things that if everything else was lost And only they remained, Your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter Like your job, house, and car. The sand is everything else -- The small stuff. 'If you put the sand into the jar first,' He continued, 'there is no room for The pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time And energy on the small stuff, You will never have room for The things that are Important to you. So... Pay attention to the things That are critical to your happiness. Serve God with all you've got. Fellowship with Holy spirit Play With your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. There will always be time To clean the house and fix the disposal. 'Take care of the golf balls first -- The things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.' One of the students raised her hand And inquired what the coffee represented. The professor smiled. 'I'm glad you asked'. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for A couple of cups of coffee with a friend.' Please share this with other "Golf Balls" and hopin you found it educative and importantly you got the moral...

INTER DIDN'T GIVE ME MANY CHANCES - QUARESMA

He was branded the biggest transfer flop of the Serie A season by sections of the Italian media, and wasn't well liked by most Inter fans either, so Ricardo Quaresma will not be too displeased with his loan move to Chelsea until the end of the season. In his first interview as a member of the Blues, predictably enough he was not too kind on the Nerazzurri. "Throughout my career and for all the teams I've played I have always tried to give my best," he said. "Now that I'm in the Premier League, another important league like Serie A, I have to show what I can do. "At Inter they did not give me too many chances to show myself. Now I want to show I am good enough for Chelsea." He did thank his former team for giving him a big opportunity: "It was a good thing for me to go to Inter, but right now I want to thank [Luiz Felipe] Scolari and everyone who made it possible for me to come to England." Quaresma managed 12 Serie A appearances in his first few months at Inter. Coach Jose Mourinho left him out of the Champions League squad, and after that it was no surprise that he left, although not many expected he would join Chelsea. i hope restless blue fanswould be patient enough to give him whatever chance he requires...

JUVENTUS AND INTER TO BATTLE OVER EMMANUEL EBOUE

Juventus and Inter are fighting it out for this year's Scudetto, and both teams are now set to do battle over Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue. Sportmediaset.it claim that the Ivory Coast international will be out of contract in the summer and that he could be the bargain of the transfer window as clubs line up to sign him for free. Arsenal have moved to offer the player a new contract, however, the former Beveren player hasn't signed it, fuelling speculation that he is no longer interested in being a part of Arsene Wenger's side at the Emirates Stadium. With Juve's defence looking uncertain this season, some reinforcements are expected in the summer. Picking Eboue up on a free transfer would fall neatly into line with the club's tight budget. If he does chase the powerful player, Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri may face stiff competition from Inter. Jose Mourinho, the Nerazzurri's coach, has been reportedly studying Eboue, who can also play in midfield. Rumours in Italy seem to suggest that the 25-year-old will be leaving London at the end of the season, and both the Old Lady and the Nerazzurri are on standby. With no transfer fee expected, the stopper is likely to be tempted by the club offering the highest wages. In this scenario, the Milanese giants would be expected to have the upper hand over Juventus, but there may yet be other sides keen on the robust Ivorian. hey! eboue should watch it before jumpin ship ooh, some left and ...

CESC FABREGAS HOPING FOR EARLY RETURN TO ARSENAL ACTION

Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has revealed that his recovery from injury is going well and that he is hoping to return to first team action ahead of schedule. The Spaniard injured knee ligaments during Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool back in December in a tackle with compatriot Xabi Alonso. Initial reports suggested Fabregas would miss the majority of the season with his return pencilled in for April, but it now appears to may return to action before then. Writing in his programme notes before Arsenal’s game with West Ham United yesterday, he confirmed, “My leg is getting stronger and the doctors tell me that the ligament has healed. “Now it is about building up the muscle and on Thursday I had a very little jog for the first time, so it is good news and I am happy because I can see a big improvement. “I will take it step by step, but hopefully I can come back earlier than first expected. However, let's wait and see.” Fabregas has been recuperating in Spain but also revealed he would be returning to London shortly and at that time would be able to set a date for his return to action. He explained, “I will be coming back to England in two weeks' time and, after being assessed by the physios, we will set a target date for my return.” The news will be a huge boost to manager Arsene Wenger, who has struggled with injuries this season. Fabregas is currently joined on the sidelines by such key names as Eduardo, Mikael Silvestre, Tomas Rosicky and Theo Walcott. yeah! this is cheering news ya all gunners...

EVERTON KNOCK 10-MAN LIVERPOOL OUT OF FA CUP

A dramatic late goal from Dan Gosling ensured that Everton knocked Liverpool out of the FA Cup at Goodison Park after extra-time on Wednesday evening. The first half was a near non-event in terms of goalmouth action as neither goalkeeper was forced into shot-stopping action. They key moment of the half came when Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard had to be substituted with a hamstring injury after only 15 minutes. Things improved in the second period, Leon Osman wasting the best chance of the 90 minutes as he struck a post, before Lucas was sent off for Liverpool after picking up a second booking as the game drifted into extra-time. The extra-time period was tense and the game was looking like it was set for a penalty shoot-out. But, in the 119th minute, substitute Gosling found space in the box and shot home to give his side a famous win. hmmm! i hope the reds won't walk alone bythe end of the season...

PROFILE: ANDREI ARSHAVIN

The name of Andrei Arshavin has never been far from the transfer rumour mill since his rise to prominence with Zenit St.Petersburg and his virtuoso performances for Russia at the 2008 European Championships. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham, Juventus, have all been linked with the highly talented forward, but it is Arsenal who have finally clinched his signature. Exactly who, though, have they managed to snap up? Andrei Sergeyevich Arshavin was born in Russia’s second city, St. Petersburg on May 29, 1981. His was a typical working-class family and his father was by all accounts quite a gifted amateur footballer, although he never played professionally. Like many youngsters Andrei began playing football at an early age and at age seven he was enrolled in the ‘Smena’ football academy of Zenit St.Petersburg. Even at an early age his talent soon became evident. Sergei Gordeev coached Arshavin from the age of 11 and saw than that the boy had superb ability. "Arshavin was always quite small. He didn't stand out, but as soon as he received the ball he was a totally different person," Gordeev explained. "He was very good at draughts. Unusually for a footballer he had strong mathematical abilities." Clearly, then, Andrei was a boy of diverse interests. Arshavin also opted to take a fashion design course at a technology and design school in St Petersburg where he opted for a sewing course. Later he suggested that the reason he chose the course was that he was the only male amongst a class of 20 attractive females. He once wrote a thesis on the development of the sports wear production process, and graduated with a diploma in fashion design. By 1999, he had progressed to play in the Zenit reserve team imaginatively named Zenit 2, and trainer Yuri Morozov handed him his first team debut in an Intertoto Cup tie against English side Bradford City in 2000 which the Russian side won 3-0. That night in Yorkshire was the start of great things for Andrei Arshavin. At the start of the new millennium, Zenit possessed a trio of highly promising youngsters in Arshavin, Alexander Kerzhakov and Vladimir Bystrov and their clique soon became the great hope for the future for the St. Petersburg club. Arshavin quickly made himself an indispensable part of the Zenit side although both Kerzakhov and Bystrov were eventually disposed of after falling foul of trainer Vlastimil Petrzela. He played in various positions, starting as a right midfielder, then as an attacking midfielder and finally adopting the second striker's role behind a target man. In 2001, Zenit finished third in the Russian first division four points behind champions Spartak Moscow. In 2003 they finished as runners-up to CSKA and won the League Cup. In 2006 he was crowned Player of the Season despite Zenit only finishing fourth. A season later though in 2007, and Arshavin led his side to their first ever Russian Premier League title. His talent was never in question, but his attitude was often a stumbling block and was seen a major obstacle to him making the breakthrough as a world-class individual. His self confidence was often misconstrued as arrogance. The Russian press also criticised him for laziness, a lack of willingness to get back to help defend and a lack of fitness. There were further signs of his precociousness in 2006 when Zenit’s Dutch trainer Dick Advocaat dropped Arshavin from the squad and demoted him to the B team for breaking a curfew and going to a nightclub the night before a vital league game with Spartak. He reacted like a spoilt child and his football suffered as a result when he was recalled. Arshavin however returned to his very best and was an instrumental figure in Zenit’s UEFA Cup winning campaign last season which culminated in their impressive 2-0 win over Glasgow Rangers at the City of Manchester Stadium. He was voted Man of the Match after a sublime performance. However, with his star in the ascendancy and the number of ‘big clubs’ reportedly chasing him in the summer of 2008, Arshavin threatened to alienate himself at Zenit when it seemed a proposed move to Tottenham wouldn’t be sanctioned by the Russian club. He allegedly threatened to go on strike. Arshavin's agent, Dennis Lachter claimed that his client was “being treated as a slave”. The move to the Emirates would probably not have been possible without his performances in the white and red of Russia. Arshavin made his debut for the Russian national team in May 2002 against Belarus, but was overlooked for the 2002 World Cup in Japan and South Korea and for Euro 2004, meaning he was to miss out twice on the biggest stage. His first goal for his country arrived in a friendly against Romania in 2003 and since then he has scored a total of 15 in 45 appearances for the national side. The pinnacle of his international career, however, came at the European Championships in 2008. Such was his importance to the side that he was included in Guus Hiddink's squad despite being unable to play the first games after picking up a red card during qualifying. But it was in that preliminary campaign, during which he scored three goals, that he'd started to make a true name for himself as a Russian hero. Austria and Switzerland were just to continue this path. After sitting out the opening day defeat to Spain and the narrow win over Greece, Arshavin announced his presence on Europe's top stage with the final goal in the 2-0 win over Sweden. Then came the knockout match against on-form Netherlands, who were put to the sword in the most energetic of extra time finishes - one that Arshavin once again capped with a goal. For both of these games he was judged by UEFA as the best player on the pitch, and although he was largely a bystander during Russia's 3-0 loss to eventual winners Spain in the semi-finals, he had done enough to repay Hiddink's faith and alert a whole slew of suitors - such as Arsenal - into the bargain. With three games played in World Cup qualifying, he has already scored twice, and all eyes will once again be on him on March 28 as lowly Azerbaijan come to Moscow for another encounter. But before that will come his Arsenal debut... Arshavin makes no bones about being a massive Barcelona fan. As a youngster he spent hours playing football manager games on the computer and would always boss the Catalan giants. Particulars Name: Andrei Arshavin Date of Birth: 29/05/1981 Place of Birth: St. Petersburg, Russia Height: 1.72m Weight: 69kg Position: Forward Thought all gunners would want to read this...

OCTUPLETS MUM 'DELUGED BY OFFERS'

A Californian woman who gave birth to octuplets has been showered with book and TV offers, the woman's newly-hired publicist has said. The mother, Nadya Suleman, wants to tell her story and is weighing up the offers, said publicist Joann Killeen. Reports that the babies were conceived through in vitro fertilisation has sparked a debate over the ethics of such treatments. News that Ms Suleman already has six children has sparked further criticism. The eight babies were delivered nine weeks early by Caesarean section in a hospital near Los Angeles on 26 January. The facility, the Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Bellflower, California, has said it was not involved in the octuplets' conception. Ms Joann Killeen said she was contacted by Ms Suleman to represent her and that hundreds of offers had been received. Many were for interviews but some have been to host TV shows or be a baby expert. "She's the most sought-after mom in the world right now," said her publicist. Ms Killeen said they were looking at all the opportunities, but that Ms Suleman was still in hospital recovering from the births and wanted to focus on her children. Ms Suleman, 33, does want to tell her story at some point, however, Ms Killeen said. Doctors at Kaiser say Ms Suleman's eight babies are so far making good progress. They are the second set of octuplets born in the US, and now they are the longest surviving. The last octuplets known to have survived birth in the US were born in Houston in 1998. One of the babies died one week later. Although Ms Suleman may have been showered with offers for her story, it is not known whether she has been approached by corporate sponsors, as happened with some other multiple-birth cases in the US. The parents of the McCaughey septuplets born in Iowa in 1997 were given a large house, a big van, baby food and a lifetime supply of nappies, the Associated Press news agency said. Hey, guys different stroke for different folks won't u saay... offers to tell what story in naija!

BARCELONA MAY SELL HENRY IN THE SUMMER

Barcelona's board are preparing to sell Thierry Henry in the summer and replace him with Franck Ribery or Yoann Gourcuff despite Pep Guardiola being happy with the Frenchman, according to a report. The Blaugrana directors are not as convinced by the former Arsenal forward's performances even in an improved second season at the club and are considering cashing in on him. AS believe that Henry will only be able to stay at Camp Nou if Guardiola insists upon it, but if assurances are given that either Ribery or Gourcuff will join then he may agree to a sale. Barcelona paid €27 million to land the former Monaco and Juventus star from Arsenal and would hope to recoup a large percentage of that by offering him to Premier League clubs. Henry has improved markedly this term after enduring a tough start to life in the Catalan capital and has formed an impressive trident with Lionel Messi and Samuel Eto'o. The trio have scored almost 50 goals between them this term and that despite Henry rarely reproducing the form that made him so famous at Highbury. With a contract until 2011, the 31-year-old could insist on staying, especially if he knows Guardiola still likes him, and because he has admitted in the past that he would not want to play for another English team.

COMEDY CLUB LIVE IN LAGOS DEBUTS ON MNET THIS FEBRUARY

M-NET at an event recently in Lagos unveiled three new programmes on its channel available to its numerous subscribers. The event tagged "M-NET Night With The Stars" was indeed a night of magic as guests where treated to good music, food and of course choice "shacks" with Olise Adibua being at his quintessential best. according to Ms. Biola Adekanbi, Channel Director M-NET Africa, the programmes; Let's Dance, Tinsel and Comedy Club is part of M-NET's contribution in local content development, emphasising that Nigeria is becoming a hub for a great lot that is happening at M-NET. She says the programmes creates a platform for homegrown talents in the arts(dance, drama and comedy) to showcase their abilities particularly upcoiming acts. I must say Kudos to the event managers who managed the event that took place at Jades Palace on Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island, yeah NO SURPRISES EVENTS ARCHITECTS they are called. It was a night of groove with splendid, pulsating music, good food, boooze and as a result dances... Obi Asika of Storms, Emem of Kush fame, kunle Coker, the Ibru Damsels, Gideon of BB fame, Mandy and a host more were in attendance.

FOTOS FROM DA-REY a.k.a DARE ART ALADE'S "NOT D GIRL" VIDEO SHOOT

"NOT D GIRL"! Recently shot on location amidst the picturesque backdrop of Cape town,South Africa."Not D Girl" is a simple,stylish n beautifully shot mini drama that compliments this very classic song written by Darey & Cohbams.Watch out for the video premier on facebook soon.

Darey killed it in dis song-perfect delivery.However,without anyone telling,I had always suspected Cobhams had something to do with this album. I'v heard him live on a few occassions and I could sniff his touch.I can wait 2 see Cobhams album.The world is yet to see what a gift this guy is.Kudos Darey!

CHARLY BOY & LADY D 30TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY / LADY D BIRTHDAY Charly Boy trips wife with surprise party For sticking by him in rain and shine for 30 years, maverick musician cum crusader Charles Oputa aka Charly Boy caused a stir at Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja, Lagos last Friday when he threw a surprise private party for his wife, Diane popularly called Lady Di. Apart from a large press crew who witnessed the event, Area Fada’s close pals Bolaji Rosiji, past PMAN President and Dele Momodu, Ovation Magazine Publisher were also there. Both dressed in red tops on a pair of jeans trousers each, a banner bearing the inscriptions “How old are you Lady Di? Happy 30th Anniversary from your Mugu-Charly Boy” welcomed the couple as cameras clicked away. The Pillars, a six man band also ushered them in with soul stirring cool music. An elated Charly Boy told us, “till tomorrow, I still wonder how she has been able to put up with a crazy person like me. This is the least I can do for her.” The celebration continued at the bar with the cutting...

CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ROUND-UP: NIGERIA'S HEARTLAND RETURN IN STYLE Goal.com's Samm Audu runs through the latest round of action in Africa... Nigeria's Heartland FC are back in style in Africa's foremost competition after they trounced Black Stars of Liberia 4-0 in a Caf Champions League first round, first leg match in the southeast town of Owerri on Sunday. The host team opened scoring after just two minutes through experienced defender Ike ThankGod, who rose above the Liberians' defence to head home from a freekick. There were also goals from Ghanaian imports, Addae Owusu and Aziz Ansah, who netted from the penalty spot on 46 minutes. Stanley Okoro was also on target for the team formerly known as Iwuanyanwu Nationale. Heartland coach, Okey Emordi, said he is now looking beyond the first round. "I expected a lot more from my team but the Liberians put up a fight especially in the second half. All the same, I don't expect any problems in the return leg in Liberia," said Emordi. In other Champions League matches, Angola's Primeiro Agosto beat Renaissance Aiglons (Congo-Brazzaville) 5-2, Supersport United (South Africa) defeated Curepipe (Mauritius) 3-0 and Monomatapa (Zimbabwe) beat Miembeni (Zanzibar) 2-0. Petro Atletico (Angola) trounced Royal Leopards (Swaziland) 3-0 and AS Douanes (Senegal) were 3-1 winners over Ports Authority (Sierra Leone).

BECKHAM BRINGS IN THE LAWYERS TO HELP WITH MILAN STAY The midfielder has instructed his legal team to begin proceedings to ensure he stays at San Siro... Milan midfielder David Beckham is so keen on extending his stay with the Rossoneri that he has instructed his lawyers to help him find a way of staying at the San Siro. Il Corriere Della Sera claims the England international has already spoken to the Los Angeles Galaxy of his intention to remain in Milan, and that he has sent in his legal team to negotiate with the American club. Beckham has asked for a consensual separation from Bruce Arena's side and his lawyers have just over a month to try and find a legal loophole that will permit him to leave. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid man is due to fly back to Los Angeles on March 9 as his contract with the MLS club expires in 2011. However, both Milan and ‘Becks’ seemingly want the loan deal to be extended - and there are hopes that it could. Rossoneri president Adriano Galliani has revealed his penchant to keep Beckham, but he does not want to get involved in a legal battle with Galaxy. The player will need to wriggle himself free and, when he does that, then Milan will be able to proceed with making the deal a permanent one.

ANDREI ARSHAVIN SPEAKS OUT OVER ARSENAL TRANSFER Russian playmaker Andrei Arshavin has spoken out over his potential Arsenal deal, and has stated he will be wearing the no 23 shirt... It was undoubtedly the longest running Premier League transfer saga that ran from the start to finish of the winter window. However, it appears that the wait was worth it as Andrei Arshavin has all but been unveiled as an official Arsenal footballer. Gunners manager Arsene Wenger stated last night that a "positive" outcome would be announced imminently, and Zenit St Petersburg have also confirmed the deal. All that is left to finalise the transfer is the Premier League's official ratification of the paperwork. Andrei Arshavin has today spoken out over the whole ordeal, he told Sky Sports that he thinks he is now an Arsenal player, and that he will sport the no. 23 on his back. "I think [I am an Arsenal player]," the former Zenit hotshot is quoted as saying. "The negotiations came to a close and the details will be revealed today. Now I can only say one thing: if I were to play for Arsenal then I would wear the number 23," he concluded. If the deal goes ahead then the 27-year-old could be in line to make a dream debut against Arsenal's north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

FA CUP TIE AGAINST CARDIFF CITY IS POSTPONED Due to adverse weather conditions, the FA Cup Fourth Round replay against Cardiff City scheduled for Tuesday, February 3 at 7.45pm has been postponed. Match tickets for this fixture remain valid for the rearranged match. The FA Cup 4th Round Replay will now be played as under: Arsenal v Cardiff City FA Cup 4th Round Replay Emirates Stadium Monday 16th February 2009 Kick Off 7.45pm Should Arsenal be successful in this tie they face West Brom or Burnley in the Fifth Round. A date for that game will be announced later.

WALCOTT COULD RETURN TO ACTION IN FOUR WEEKS Theo Walcott is still leading the race to be the first of Arsenal's long-term absentees to return to action. The England international dislocated his shoulder while on international duty in November but Arsène Wenger revealed that Walcott could get the "green light" for his comeback in four weeks' time. Arsenal fans will have to wait a little longer to see Tomas Rosicky or Cesc Fabregas. The Czech star has been sidelined by a tendon problem for over a year while Fabregas will not be rushed back despite suggesting in his West Ham programme notes that his recovery from knee ligament damage was ahead of schedule. “Walcott is the closest because he has four weeks before he sees a specialist again and then he should get the green light," said Wenger. “Fabregas, I believe, will be six to eight weeks before playing. I can understand his optimism, and we hope [that he will be back quicker] but with a medial knee ligament you have to respect the time. “For Rosicky, [it will be] eight weeks.”

RICARDO QUARESMA JOINS CHELSEA - Report SKY Italia report that Ricardo Quaresma has left Inter to join Chelsea on loan... According to reports from Italy, the deal to send Ricardo Quaresma on loan to Chelsea has been completed, although neither club have released an official statement yet. SKY Italia and Tuttomercatoweb have reported that the Portuguese winger will join the Blues for the remainder of the season on loan. Earlier stories from England had claimed the player was spotted around White Hart Lane and ready to sign for Tottenham Hotspur. Quaresma has been left off Inter's Champions League squad for the remainder of the season by coach Jose Mourinho as he has failed to make the desired impact at the San Siro. Many believe the presence of former Portugal boss Luiz Felipe Scolari at Stamford Bridge has been influential with regards to the nearly done deal of the former Porto winger joining the Blues. Should the deal go through, Quaresma will be hoping to re-ignite his career under his former national team mentor and will battle for a place upfront with the likes of Salomon Kalou, Joe Cole, and Florent Malouda for a place in the starting line-up.

Arsenal And Zenit Agree Fee For Arshavin; Personal Terms Met Just one hurdle remains as this transfer saga draws to a close... Latest reports from Sky indicate that Andrei Arhsavin's move from Zenit St. Petersburg to Arsenal is on the absolute verge of going through. Within the last few minutes it has been said that the Gunners have agreed a fee with their Russian counterparts, and that Arshavin himself has received a wage offer acceptable to him. All that remains now is one obstacle - albeit a tricky one. Zenit are apparently holding out for a payment from Arshavin himself to compensate for his contractual value; until the Russian side receive a promise of this money then the transfer cannot take place. However, with all else being confirmed, it is likely that this will be dealt with within the hour. UPDATE 17:26 CET - It is confirmed that Arshavin has passed his medical. All that is needed now it Zenit's permission for the move to take place - but that hinges on the aforementioned player.

WEATHER LEADS PREMIER LEAGUE TO EXTEND DEADLINE LONDON (AFP) – The Premier League said Monday they would allow clubs a transfer window extension beyond the 1700GMT deadline because of the snow-falls in Britain and Europe, provided certain conditions were met. The Premier League said they would need e-mail confirmation from both teams a deal had been agreed in principle and they would also need to be satisfied that it was the weather which had prevented the transfer being completed. Snowy conditions in Britain and elsewhere in Europe have threatened to delay medicals, the agreement of personal terms and the business of players putting pen-to-paper on contracts. The Premier League's announcement came after talks they held earlier Monday with both the Football Association and world governing body FIFA.

JO JOINS EVERTON FOR REST OF SEASON LIVERPOOL (AFP) – Everton have signed Brazil striker Jo on loan from Premier League rivals Manchester City for the remainder of the season, the Merseyside club announced on their official website here Monday. The deal, Everton's first of the January transfer window, was made public just hours ahead of the 1700GMT Monday deadline. Officials from the two clubs met in Manchester on Saturday and Jo, who has since agreed personal terms, was due to put pen to paper at Everton's training ground on Monday. Jo became something of an 18 million pounds misfit at Manchester City since his pre-season arrival from Russian side CSKA Moscow. The 21-year-old has made 12 starts for City, scoring three goals, but has lately fallen out of favour with manager Mark Hughes. Jo made his name in Brazil with Corinthians before joining CSKA, where he scored 30 goals in 50 starts, in 2006. His arrival is timely for Everton, who have been having to play Australia midfielder Tim Cahill up front as a lone striker because of injuries. Toffees forwards Yakubu and James Vaughan are already out for the season while Louis Saha is currently recovering from a hamstring problem.

LIVERPOOL AGREE TO SELL KEANE TO SPURS LONDON (AFP) – Liverpool confirmed Monday they had agreed to sell striker Robbie Keane back to Tottenham Hotspur just months after bringing him to Anfield from their Premier League rivals. "Liverpool Football Club have reached agreement with Tottenham Hotspur for the sale of Robbie Keane," a club spokesman said. The news of Keane's return to White Hart Lane was announced barely an hour before the 1700GMT Monday close of the January transfer window and seems set to end an unsuccessful spell at Anfield for the boyhood Liverpool fan. The Republic of Ireland international was forced to watch from the stands while Fernando Torres scored twice in Sunday's 2-0 win over Chelsea at Anfield as Liverpool reduced champions Manchester United's lead at the top of the Premier League table to two points. The 28-year-old has played just six minutes of Liverpool's last three games and has now failed to feature in four of their last seven matches. He has not completed a full 90 minutes for the club since the 3-1 Champions League victory in the Netherlands against PSV Eindhoven on December 12. Keane cost 20 million pounds when he moved to Anfield from Tottenham in July but reports on Sunday suggested Spurs manager Harry Redknapp was ready to bring him back to White Hart Lane for a fee in the region of 15 million pounds.

PHELPS IN HOT WATER AGAIN AFTER POT PIC SURFACES Michael Phelps embarrassed himself again after a triumphant Olympics, this time getting his picture snapped as he inhaled from a marijuana pipe. The photo wound up in a British tabloid Sunday, forcing Phelps to publicly apologize and his handlers to deal with sponsors who are surely none too pleased about the swimmer's choices away from the pool. "I engaged in behavior which was regrettable and demonstrated bad judgment," Phelps said in the statement released by one of his agents. "I'm 23 years old and despite the successes I've had in the pool, I acted in a youthful and inappropriate way, not in a manner people have come to expect from me. For this, I am sorry. I promise my fans and the public it will not happen again." It all sounded so familiar, with good reason. After the 2004 Athens Games, an underage Phelps was arrested for drunken driving, pleaded guilty and apologized to his fans, saying he wouldn't make the same mistake again. This was different, to be sure, but it could have the same damaging impact on Phelps' image and reputation, which were riding high after he won a record eight gold medals at the Beijing Games. "Michael is a role model, and he is well aware of the responsibilities and accountability that come with setting a positive example for others, particularly young people," the U.S. Olympic Committee said in a statement. "In this instance, regrettably, he failed to fulfill those responsibilities." News of the World said the picture was taken during a November house party while Phelps was visiting the University of South Carolina. During that trip, he attended one of the school's football games and received a big ovation when introduced to the crowd.

STEELERS RALLY TO BEAT CARDINALS 27-23, 6TH TITLE TAMPA, Fla. – Ben Roethlisberger and the Pittsburgh offense ended a Super Bowl of incredible swings with a final-minute touchdown for a historic victory. Santonio Holmes made a brilliant 6-yard catch deep in the right corner of the end zone with 35 seconds remaining Sunday night, lifting the Steelers to a record-setting sixth Super Bowl win, 27-23 over the Arizona Cardinals. It was one of the most thrilling finishes to the NFL title game, certainly equaling last year's upset by the New York Giants that ended with Plaxico Burress' TD catch — with 35 seconds left, too. But this one was even wilder. The Steelers (15-4), winning their second Super Bowl in four seasons, led 20-7 in the fourth quarter, only to see Kurt Warner and the Cardinals stage a remarkable rally to go in front 23-20 with 2:37 remaining. Warner hit All-Pro receiver Larry Fitzgerald in stride for a 64-yard touchdown with 2:37 left. Already owning a slew of postseason receiving marks this year, Fitzgerald sped down the middle of the field, watching himself outrun the Steelers on the huge video screen. Fitzgerald could only watch from the sideline as Roethlisberger engineered a 78-yard drive to win it in what resembled Heinz Field South. With waves of twirling Terrible Towels turning Raymond James Stadium into a black-and-gold tableau — Steelers fans supporting their beloved team, the economy be damned — Pittsburgh's offense rescued the title. Holmes was selected the game's MVP. "Great players step up in big-time games to make plays," Holmes said. "I kind of lost a little composure, you know, but I knew our defense would give us a chance to make it back."