Chelsea
John Terry has given a ringing endorsement to Andre Villas-Boas after almost a month working under the new Chelsea manager. The 33 year old's methods have made a huge impression on Chelsea's seasoned professionals after five victorious pre-season matches, according to Terry, the captain. "He's come in and, really, from day one, he's been on the ball and on the button with us all," the defender said. "So we're all intrigued to see what he can bring over the next few weeks and the forthcoming season."
Swansea City
Swansea have completed the signing of Leroy Lita from Middlesbrough after the striker completed his medical. The club had previously agreed a £1.75 million (Dh10.5m) fee and sealed personal terms on a three-year contract with the player, who becomes Swansea's fourth signing of the summer. A statement on the club's website read: "Swansea City are pleased to confirm they have completed the signing of striker Leroy Lita after he passed a medical today."
Arsenal
Kyle Bartley, the centre-back, signed a new contract with Arsenal yesterday, reportedly a two-year extension that will keep him at the club until 2014. Bartley spent spells on loan with Championship side Sheffield United and then the Scottish Premier League champions, Glasgow Rangers ,last season. Bartley's progress has now been rewarded with a new deal. "If I'm honest, I don't think I was anywhere near the level to play for Arsenal last season," he told the club's website. "But I've come back, I feel really strong and I feel I am ready now. If Arsene [Wenger] decides he wants me in the first team then that will be fantastic."
Sunderland
Steed Malbranque appears set to return to his native France after Steve Bruce, the Sunderland manager, acknowledged the midfielder's future lay elsewhere. "Of course, Steed has done remarkably well for the club over the last two or three years, but it's maybe time that he moves on, and we wish him well," Bruce told The Sunderland Echo. "I think it's in advanced talks, so maybe there'll be something to report there soon." Bruce revealed Marcos Angeleri and George McCartney could also follow the Frenchman through the exit door.
Liverpool
Steven Gerrard is recovering faster than predicted from a groin infection but Kenny Dalglish, the Liverpool manager, is still expecting to be without his captain until next month. "Steven won't be too far away. All the tests that have come back are far better than what was anticipated, so we're delighted with that for him," Dalglish said. "He's had some really positive news, and we'll just wait for the progress to continue. But the date that has been mentioned hasn't been changed."
West Bromwich Albion
Zoltan Gera wants to stay at West Brom for the rest of his career after linking up with the club for a second time. The Hungarian international has signed a two-year deal with another year's option in the club's favour. But the midfielder, whose contract at Fulham expired at the end of last season, has set his sights on playing for the Baggies for another five seasons, by which time he will be 37. He said: "Hopefully I can finish my career here and stay here, not for two to three years, but for five years. I'm not thinking about two years. Hopefully I can play more than that because I don't want to be retired too soon."
