“With South American qualifying for the 2010 World Cup resuming next month, the top four positioned teams of the continent tested their strength in what ended up being worthwhile friendly matches on Wednesday. While Brazil, Argentina and Chile claimed hard-fought victories in Europe, Paraguay lost in Asia.” (SI)

“The 2009/10 Premier League season kicks off this weekend – and the organisers are already describing it as an overwhelming success. For the first time annual revenue is expected to exceed £1bn, with much of this success fuelled from abroad. Matches will be beamed into 575m homes in 211 territories around the world and a total of 90,000 hours of action will be broadcast.” (BBC)

Where the Premier League’s players come from (BBC)

“The English Premier League season will begin this weekend, and several Americans who played in the United States team’s 2-1 defeat to Mexico will be playing in what many consider the most exciting league in Europe. Here’s a brief rundown of the United States players and other Americans you’ll see in England’s top flight this season…” (NYT)

“‘Tis the season… The Premier League finally kicks off again tomorrow and I feel like a kid on Christmas Eve. I’ve been asking mummy for a shiny new League Title for months but I have this fear I’m destined for a pile of knee-socks and hand-knitted sweaters. Honestly, I might not sleep tonight. I’m that charged up. Of all the team sports I love to watch (football, basketball, baseball, that other football), the Premier League has the shortest off-season, yet this is the one that’s hardest for me to survive. But I made it. We’re here.” (EPL Talk), Final Thoughts Before The Premier League Opener, part 2 – (EPL Talk)