Football news

Andrea Della Valle, the president of Fiorentina, is demanding a public explanation for the "disgusting" errors by referees following his team's 1-0 upset to Juventus.

" I don't like the attitude of these match officials against my team," he said.

"I am disgusted with what I have seen. These are clear errors that even a child can see. It has been going on ever since Gilardino's handling incident in Palermo."

Alberto Gilardino was given a two-match ban after he punched the ball into the net to win in Sicily.

On Saturday, the Viola had a Gilardino goal incorrectly ruled offside and Stevan Jovetic appeared to be tripped by Olof Mellberg in the Juve box.

United's walking wounded list grows

Manchester United's injury crisis continued last weekend following their FA Cup fourth round victory over Tottenham Hotspur, said manager Alex Ferguson.

Ferguson, who had 10 senior players out of action as United chase trophies in four competitions, said forward Danny Welbeck and left-back Fabio da Silva were likely to be out of the squad for tomorrow's Premier League game at West Brom.

Welbeck limped out of the 2-1 win over Spurs late in the game while Fabio's debut for the club ended when he was injured early in the second half.

Okaka wants Roma exit

Stefano Okaka Chuka, the promising Roma U-21 international, has informed his employers that he is seeking a move away from the capital this month.

The young forward spent most of the time on the bench this season and made just one start in Serie A.

"We need to meet up with the club to hear if they want to keep hold of the lad or send him out on loan," Domenico Scopelliti, Okaka's agent, said.

"Aside from Siena and Chievo, there is also interest from Livorno. What is important to Stefano is that he plays, it doesn't matter if that is in Serie A or B."

Ballack to prolong Chelsea stay

Michael Ballack is looking to extend his stay at Chelsea. The midfielder's current contract is due to expire at the end of the season, although he has an option of a one-year extension.

The 32-year-old Germany international scored twice in the Blues' FA Cup fourth-round victory over Ipswich Town on Saturday.

It is reported that Chelsea are keen to hand the former Bayern Munich player a new deal, and Ballack has signalled his intention to remain in West London.

"I am happy here, I feel very comfortable and good," Ballack said.

"We will speak in the next few weeks and I think we will find a way. As I said, I am happy here and I hope I can play a few more years for Chelsea."

Atalanta's Floccari in demand

Atalanta striker Sergio Floccari could be heading away from the Serie A this week with Newcastle United and Atletico Madrid among the sides ready to take him on board.

Floccari, 27, has already scored 10 times in 19 Serie A appearances this season and many are tipping him with a bright future for the national team.

His scoring exploits have attracted the attention of various clubs outside Italy and reports said the Spanish sides are particularly interested, as Atletico and Villarreal are both tracking Floccari's progress.

Newcastle are also lining up a bid for the former Messina player whose price tag is now up to £12m.

Tottenham renew interest in Jones

Struggling Premier League club Tottenham have made a new offer for Sunderland striker Kenwyne Jones. Spurs had a £15m bid for the Trinidad player turned down by Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia a few weeks ago.

Jones, 24, had already played for manager Harry Redknapp at Southampton. He then joined Sunderland for £6m in 2007.

If Spurs land Jones, who has scored seven goals this season, he would be Redknapp's third big-money signing this month after Jermain Defoe (£15m) and Wilson Palacios (£12m).

The deal involving Jones could see Darren Bent move in the opposite direction.

Liverpool can win title - Mourinho

Inter coach Jose Mourinho reckons Liverpool have all cards in place to pip Manchester United for the Premier League title this season.

Liverpool, currently second on goal difference, lost vital points at home to less-fancied opposition these past few weeks, but Mourinho, formerly of Chelsea, believes they can keep their Premiership challenge on track.

"It has been interesting watching Liverpool this season," Mourinho said. "I think they have everything they need to win the title.

"I still can't understand why they didn't do it in the last four years. The manager is good, the players are good, the crowd is unique so why can't they do it? I think they can."

Mourinho's Inter play Manchester United in the next round of the Champions League.