Andrea Pirlo, midfield strategist for AC Milan and Italy, spoke to FIFA.com about his early mentors, his ambitions and his contentment at AC Milan.

Toni Schumacher was the first footballing star from the past to answer FIFA.com's questions in 2008, and many more went on to emulate him.

Cameroon international Thimotee Atouba has turned down a contract extension at Hamburg, and will leave the German club at season's end.

Liverpool ended 2008 with a three-point lead over Chelsea after a 5-1 away win at Newcastle United while the Blues settled for a 2-2 draw at Fulham.

Arsenal moved into fourth place in the Premier League as an 81st-minute goal from William Gallas was enough for victory over Portsmouth. 

Arsenal moved into fourth place in the Premier League as an 81st-minute goal from William Gallas boosted the Gunners over Portsmouth, 1-0. 

West Ham recorded a 2-1 victory over ten-man Stoke City, with Tristan choosing the perfect time to score his first goal for the east London club.

West Ham recorded a 2-1 victory over Stoke City, who had Ricardo Fuller red-carded for punching his own teammate.

A last-gasp equaliser from USA international Clint Dempsey secured Fulham a 2-2 draw against Chelsea in a pulsating west London derby. 

Steven Gerrard scored twice to help first-placed Liverpool to a 5-1 win over Newcastle, and a three-point lead in the Premier League.