Europe readies for UEFA Cup turf wars

PARIS: European action kicks off for today as David Beckham's AC Milan and a strong contingent of English and French clubs restart their attempt to deny UEFA Cup holders Zenit St Petersburg a consecutive title.

AC Milan's loss to rivals Inter on Sunday to lose touch in Italy may galvanize Carlo Ancelotti's men in the last 32 of this second-tier club competition while Aston Villa might be stung into action after defeat in the FA Cup.

Turks Galatasaray should be motivated in their trip to Bordeaux knowing the May 20 final is in Istanbul while AC Milan's evergreen defender Paolo Maldini, who turns 41 in June, has a chance for one last European hurrah after a glittering career with the Rossoneri.