Stories | When Saturday Comes

Trial by television

The lighthearted interview that prompted Fabio Capello’s resignation seemed innocuous to viewers in Italy, writes Matthew Barker

Cinque Minuti di Recupero is one of those quick filler shows Italian state broadcaster RAI puts out after the main evening news bulletin. It is a no-frills feature, in which the presenter interviews a footballing personality for five minutes. The show has enjoyed a few decent exclusives in its time, possibly because of its tight format.

Sunday, April 1st, 2012 - Book reviews

Recalling Harry

Harry Redknapp’s success at Portsmouh will always be tainted by the club’s subsequent struggles, writes Colin Farmery

February 2012 was a more eventful month than most for fans of Portsmouth. While their club was lurching towards a second administration in two years, Harry Redknapp and Milan Mandaric, the former manager and chairman, were on trial for tax evasion charges relating to their time at the club.

Sunday, April 1st, 2012 - Book reviews

Character building

Who better to teach sportsmanship to children than a cartoon version of Jose Mourinho, argues David Craik

Racing towards a La Liga title, threatening to be the first man to win three European Cups with different teams, having English clubs clamour for his signature next season – what more is there for José Mourinho to feel good about? Is not it obvious? His next challenge is, of course, to rival Hong Kong Phooey, Yogi Bear and Ivor the Engine for the title of best cartoon series ever.

Sunday, April 1st, 2012 - Book reviews

TV Times

Rupert Murdoch blew terrestrial channels out of the water to buy Premier League rights in 1992 but he could now face tougher competition, writes Gary Andrews

Two decades ago, Rupert Murdoch staked the success of his fledgling satellite TV business on paying £300 million for rights to the newly formed Premier League. Since then Sky has remained unchallenged in its dominance – and the sums of money are much larger – but there is a possibility they could be out-Skyed by companies looking to establish new technology in our living rooms.

Sunday, April 1st, 2012 - The Archive

Film Club

A new documentary about QPR makes or fascinating if not flattering viewing, writes Anthony Hobbs

The Four Year Plan is a fly-on-the-wall account of a turbulent period of QPR’s history, following our takeover by wealthy backers, in particular one Flavio Briatore. Over three seasons, the film plots a path through boardroom-generated mayhem, destruction and chaos, before somehow delivering a happy ending with Rangers’ promotion to the Premier League.

Sunday, April 1st, 2012 - Book reviews