Haris Vuckic admits he does not know where he will be playing next season - but believes Rangers would be a 'good option' if Newcastle let him leave. The St James' Park youngster was one of five loanees sent to Glasgow by the Magpies on the final day of the January transfer window. With Kevin Mbabu, Remie Streete, Gael Bigirimana and Shane Ferguson all injured, the 22-year-old Slovenian is the only one to have made an impact at Ibrox. Haris Vuckic (right) trains with team-mates after being loaned to Rangers from Newcastle . The Slovenia international admits he is uncertain over his future with only 12months left on his Toon deal . Six goals in 10 games have made him an instant hit with the Gers faithful but Vuckic has denied reports suggesting he is ready to quit Newcastle this summer. He still has another 12 months on his deal with the Barclays Premier League club and owner Mike Ashley is certain to play hard-ball with Rangers if they try to sign him early after his recent boardroom battle with Dave King. But if a deal can be done, Vuckic would be happy to talk. He said: 'It's not true that I'm going to quit Newcastle and stay at Ibrox. What I have always said that I respect both clubs - Newcastle because I still have a contract with them and Rangers because I have a loan deal here. Vuckic has won over Rangers fans with six goals from 10 games, including this strike against Hearts . 'We will see what is going to happen in the summer but Newcastle have to say what options I have. 'I will choose the best one for me. 'If Newcastle let me go, would I like to stay at Rangers? That would be a good option for me. 'At Newcastle, I didn't have the chance to play first-team football. When I signed for Rangers I got that experience. I'm playing every week and scoring goals. Vuckic (centre) is one of five Newcastle players loaned to Rangers, including  Gael Bigirimana (left) and Remie Streete - although he is the only one to have been a success . The 22-year-old celebrates scoring a goal for Newcastle, but could find himself leaving St James' Park . 'If I can do that next season that would be a great option for me. 'I like the feel of Rangers. Every player doesn't want to just train on the training ground, they want to be recognised in the games and score goals. They want to be recognised in the city. 'At Newcastle I was playing Under-21 level which is not really my level. I feel I'm above that. I want to play first-team. I want to play with the men, not the kids. 'I want to be recognised if I do well and score goals - that's what players want.'

Haris Vuckic has spent second half of season on loan at Rangers . Slovenia star has been a success at Ibrox with six goals in 10 games . Newcastle may decide to sell him with one year left on his contract .


Tony Pulis believes Joey Barton 'probably had a point' when claiming West Bromwich Albion's players 's*** themselves' during defeat to Queens Park Rangers earlier this season. In December West Brom were two goals up but lost to a Charlie Austin hat-trick, leading to Barton's scathing judgement and plunging Alan Irvine to the brink of the sack. Barton said then: 'West Brom went 2-0 up and I turned to Dunney (Richard Dunne) and said, 'they've scored too early.' They don't know how to get over the finishing line.' Tony Pulis has admitted that Joey Barton 'probably had a point' about West Brom losing their cool . The outspoken midfielder (right) was commenting after West Brom surrendered a two-goal lead . The teams meet again at the Hawthorns on Saturday with Pulis having instilled a solid core to the point Albion have not conceded after scoring first in a game. 'Whatever Joey says or whatever he does he's entitled to hid views and his opinions,' Pulis said. 'The club were 2-0 up and lost 3-2 so he most probably had a point, or he felt he had a point to say something on that subject.' Pulis recalled his own misfortune from leading 2-0 and losing as Gillingham manager in the Second Division play-off final of 1999. 'I've managed teams that have been 2-0 up with only for or five minutes to go and ended up drawing then losing on penalties. 1999 Man City Wembley,' he added. 'So I can't talk about being indestructible in respect to leads. 'We've played really well I don't think they've just been good results. The performances have been really, really good. We're hoping we'll continue that now.' QPR striker Charlie Austin scores a header to seal a hat-trick and a comeback win against West Brom . Austin claims the match ball after helping QPR to comeback from two goals down to win 3-2 in December .

West Brom lost 3-2 to QPR earlier in the season having led the game 2-0 . Hoops midfielder Joey Barton accused the Baggies of losing their cool in a result that would contribute to former manager Alan Irvine's sacking . New boss Tony Pulis has admitted that Barton 'probably had a point' The two teams meet in the Premier League on Saturday at The Hawthorns . Pulis has steadied the ship at West Brom since taking over in January and the club looks unlikely to be relegated this term .


Manchester United's Radamel Falcao believes Manchester City counterpart Sergio Aguero is his side's biggest threat. The Colombian striker was speaking at the #HeadtoHead for Puma's 'evoSPEED 1.3' alongside the Argentine when he spoke highly of this weekend's Manchester derby. Falcao said: 'They are a very talented team, with a danger all over the pitch, but Sergio Aguero has been a really dangerous player for Manchester United in the past matches. Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao believes Sergio Aguero is his side's biggest threat on Sunday . Argentina international Aguero has scored six times against United since he joined City in 2011 . 'He scored many goals, and always needs to be watched carefully. If there is one player more than others to watch out for, I'd say it is Aguero.' Falcao did not feature at the Etihad earlier this season but is fully aware of what the derby means in the city. 'It really means a lot to our fans and theirs, so of course I'd be thrilled to play in this match on Sunday. The atmosphere will be phenomenal,' he said. 'In Manchester the derby means a lot. Unfortunately I didn't play in the derby earlier this season, but you could sense the atmosphere in the city for more than a week before the match itself, it was all people were talking about.' Falcao and Aguero came face-to-face at a Puma event on Thursday . Falcao (right) says he is happy at United despite playing a bit-part role for much of the season . Falcao says he is happy at United despite having to settle for bit-part role under Louis van Gaal. 'Every football player wants to play, that's very normal, but I respect the manager and the decisions he makes,' he said. 'I keep working hard in training, learning every day how to play in different systems, in different styles of football. 'Manchester United is a great club, I am very happy to be here and because of this I am happy to be patient.'

Manchester United welcome Manchester City to Old Trafford on Sunday . Sergio Aguero has scored six goals against Man Utd since joining City . Radamel Falcao says the Argentine is the main threat for Man United . Falcao is hoping to make his first appearance in a Manchester derby . Colombian says he is happy at Man Utd despite bit-part role this season .


It’s that time of year when the English challenge in Europe fades in the face of overwhelming firepower and the thorny issue of the salary cap re-surfaces. This time, Dai Young has sounded the annual alarm. Wasps’ director of rugby could not have asked much more from his gallant side as they pushed Toulon all the way before losing their Champions Cup quarter-final at Stade Felix Mayol on Sunday. Yet, the scale of what they were up against was illustrated by the sight of Matt Giteau and Juan Fernandez Lobbe – two of the world’s finest players – coming on as replacements for the hosts. A pair of Springboks, Bryan Habana and Juan Smith, were among a glittering non-playing contingent. Wasps coach Dai Young has called for reform to the Premiership salary cap so English clubs can compete on the European stage - the comments came after his team lost 32-18 to Toulon on Sunday . Lozowski makes a diving pass while his ankle is grasped by the Toulon player on the ground . Toulon's English speedster Delon Armitage makes a break for the defending champions . CLERMONT v SARACENS, Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, St Etienne, Saturday, April 18, 3.15pm (GMT) TOULON v LEINSTER, Stade Vélodrome, Marseille, Sunday,     April 19, 3.15pm (GMT) Young quipped that the absence of Leigh Halfpenny from the Toulon ranks meant that Wasps only had ‘about five world-class full-backs to worry about’. The joke hinted at a more serious point; the personnel gulf between the wealthy French elite and their Premiership rivals. The English clubs simply can’t compete when the leading Top 14 sides play to their potential, due to the disparity in budgets. Yet again, the salary cap — currently £5.5million — is back on the agenda. ‘There are pros and cons for everything,’ said Young. ‘The salary cap has worked; all the clubs have been sustainable for a long period, it’s the most competitive league in Europe and there have been two or three different title winners in the last few seasons, too. Wasps' No 10 Alex Lozowski kicks away from Michalak during their European Champions Cup quarter-final . Toulon playmaker Frederic Michalak pulls the strings for the defending European champions . ‘It has also meant a lot of young English players are getting exposure at that level, so it has done what it was intended to do. But maybe we need a a re-think about how important Europe is to the English teams and how the salary cap leaves us when playing against the big French teams. ‘Realistically, Premiership teams need a bit of luck to arrive at these games with their best team fit. With the salary cap, there’s no way we can match the massive squads these clubs have.’ Wasps couldn’t match Toulon’s depth of playing resources, but they did trouble the holders thanks to the dynamic efforts of two young Englishmen — centre Elliot Daly and scrum-half Joe Simpson. Their electric running maintained the form Young believes should put them in contention for a place in England’s World Cup squad. ‘I don’t know what more they can do,’ said the Welshman. ‘If England want to win the World Cup, these are the type of players you have to get in your team.’ New Zealander Williams rises to celebrate his try which came minutes after he should have been sin-binned . Ali Williams crosses for a late try for Toulon as they put victory over Wasps on Sunday beyond doubt .

Dai Young wants to reform the current salary cap in English top flight . It means Premiership clubs are struggling to compete with French . Young's Wasps side lost 32-18 to Toulon in Champions Cup last eight . Only Saracens made it through to the last four from England .


West Ham wonderkid Reece Oxford pushed himself closer to a long-awaited first-team debut after scoring for the Under 21s against Manchester United. The 16-year-old, who has been on the bench for the senior side this season, scored with a header in the Hammers 3-2 defeat against the Red Devils on Tuesday night. The goal will push Oxford's claims for a senior debut before the end of the season. Reece Oxford, pictured here earlier in the season, has moved closer to a first-team debut for West Ham . Oxford scored for West Ham's under 21 team in their 3-2 defeat to Manchester United on Tuesday night . Oxford signed his first professional contract earlier this season, snubbing interest from all of the Premier League's big guns. The central defender, who has been likened to Rio Ferdinand, has tipped to be a future England international. Oxford regularly trains with the first team and is hopeful Sam Allardyce will give him his first team debut before the end of campaign.

Oxford scored for under 21 side in 3-2 loss to Man United on Tuesday . The goal will push 16-year-old's claim for a first-team debut . Centre-back has trained with West Ham first team this season . CLICK HERE for the latest West Ham United news .


Gary Teale has hit back at Ronny Deila’s criticism of the St Mirren Park pitch. After the Parkhead club’s 2-0 win on Friday night, Deila branded most surfaces in the Scottish Premiership ‘terrible’ and argued that artificial pitches would make for better spectacles. But Teale insists the Norwegian’s criticism was unjustified and unfair on the Paisley club’s award-winning groundsman, Tommy Docherty. Celtic's Stefan Johansen slots  home his penalty to put his side 2-0 up against St Mirren . Gary Teale hit back at Celtic boss Ronny Deila for his criticism of the St Mirren Park pitch on Monday night . ‘I was surprised because I think our pitch is the best in the league,’ stated Teale. ‘It’s maybe a bit firm but it’s an excellent surface. Tommy, our groundsman, wins “Pitch of the Year” year after year and that’s a great acknowledgement for him and a great accolade for him. ‘So I was surprised at the comments because I’ve seen a lot of the pitches in the SPFL this year and a lot of them leave a lot to be desired. But ours is great and all credit to the groundsman.’ Deila branded most surfaces in the Scottish Premiership ‘terrible’ and said artificial pitches would be better . Teale feels Deila's criticism unfair on the Paisley club’s award-winning groundsman, Tommy Docherty .

Ronny Deila criticised the St Mirren Park pitch after Friday night's win . Celtic beat St Mirren 2-0 away from home in the Scottish Premiership . Teale insists Deila's criticism was unjustified and unfair on the club .


Josh Harrop starred as Manchester United secured a hard-earned victory against West Ham United to go four points clear at the top of the Under 21 Premier League. Basement boys West Ham took a shock lead when Reece Oxford headed home an impressive delivery from Josh Cullen with just ten minutes played. It was the east Londoner’s first away goal since September, however their advantage lasted all of 12 minutes as Harrop grabbed his first of the game to level the scores before Joe Rothwell capped an impressive turnaround minutes later. Adnan Januzaj captained Manchester United Under 21 as they went four points clear at the top . It should have been plain sailing for the hosts from then on but Jordan Brown levelled the scores on the stroke of half-time. The young Red Devils were able to name Belgium international Adnan Januzaj in their line up and the added class in attack began to show. Januzaj went close on a couple of occasions from free-kicks before Harrop grabbed his second of the game and all three points for Manchester United. Harrop made the most of some poor handling from the West Ham goalkeeper and cheekily volleyed in an effort to secure victory.

Josh Harrop scored twice as Manchester United came from behind to win . Reece Oxford headed West Ham ahead before hosts scored twice . Jordan Brown leveled before the break, but Harrop pounced to earn win . Adnan Januzaj captained the side as they went four points clear at the top .


Ronny Deila agrees with Gary Teale's claim that St Mirren have one of the best pitches in the Scottish Premiership - but believes that is an indictment rather than a boast. The Hoops boss criticised the playing surface at St Mirren Park following the Hoops' 2-0 Scottish Premiership win on Friday night and said that artificial pitches would be an improvement at most of the grounds his team are asked to visit. Buddies boss Teale hit back, saying: 'It's maybe a bit firm but it's an excellent surface. Tommy, our groundsman, wins 'pitch of the year' year after year and that's a great acknowledgement for him and a great accolade for him.' Ronny Deila agrees with Gary Teale's claim that St Mirren have one of the best pitches in the division . However, ahead of the home game against Partick Thistle on Wednesday night, the Norwegian was not back-tracking on his assessment and went as far as to say his side should be judged accordingly. 'I said the same (as Teale), it is one of the best in the league but that says something about the pitches in the league,' said Deila. 'If that is a good pitch, then I say good luck. That is not a good pitch. Buddies boss Teale hit back at criticism received for the condition of the St Mirren pitch on Friday night . 'I am not saying they do a bad job but the pitches are not like that in England. The ball is not bouncing around all the time. 'This is the Scottish Premiership we are talking about here. 'We get evaluated every game about performance; how good we are playing and entertainment and there are high demands. St Mirren's Jason Naismith battles with Celtic's Stuart Armstrong during the game at St Mirren Park . St Mirren ace John McGinn slides in as he looks to retrieve the ball from Celtic's James Forrest on Friday . 'And if that is a very good pitch then the demands on us can't be so high. 'If you want high performances then you need good pitches.' Celtic are seven points ahead of second-placed Aberdeen having played a game less but Deila believes the title race will 'open up again' if the Hoops fail to get the win. 'The game tomorrow is a very big game for us,' he said. Forrest celebrates as he scores for Celtic against St Mirren at St Mirren Park on Friday night . Celtic player Emilio Izaguirre battles for the ball alongside St Mirren ace Emmanual Sonupe . 'If we win, we put pressure on Aberdeen again and if we lose then it is open again. 'Everything is possible in football. No one can take the points we have from us but we have to win more games before we win the league. 'I have never taken anything for granted in football. If you do that you can eat your words. 'So this game is important and Partick Thistle is one of the best teams at the moment. 'They have had some good results and it is going to be a good test for us. 'We have to be up for the game and have a good performance.' Irish midfielder Jim Goodwin slides in for the ball against Celtic's Nir Bitton at Celtic Park .

Ronny Deila criticised the playing surface at St Mirren Park on Friday . Deila believes most clubs in division would benefit from artificial surfaces . Norwegian boss believes pitches need to be more like those in England . Feels his side should be judged on their performance on poor pitches .


Karim Benzema hailed team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo as a 'phenomenon' after the Portuguese struck five goals in Real Madrid's 9-1 mauling of Granada. It was the first time in his career that Ronaldo has scored five goals in a single match and saw him become only the third player to reach the 300-goal mark for Madrid, a tally achieved in only 287 appearances. On Sunday, Benzema said on his club's website: 'Cristiano is a phenomenon, he is always looking for goals and ways to help the team. He deserves everything he has achieved.' Cristiano Ronaldo (centre) scored five goals during Real Madrid's 9-1 La Liga victory against Granada . Benzema also scored twice after Gareth Bale had opening the scoring as Madrid's much-vaunted 'BBC' strikeforce combined to score eight of their side's nine goals, with the other coming from a Diego Mainz own goal. The Frenchman added: 'Him (Ronaldo), Bale and me, we're in good form, like always. We're helping the team and sometimes we score and other times we don't, but we're in good shape to continue like that until the end of the season.' Ronaldo, meanwhile, was quick to highlight the role his team-mates played in his five-goal haul as he inched closer to becoming the club's all-time record scorer. Karim Benzema, who scored twice himself, hailed his Madrid team-mate Ronaldo as a 'phenomenon' Ronaldo performs his trademark celebration as his team-mates watch during the 9-1 rout at the Bernabeu . Raul currently leads the way with 323 goals from 741 appearances while Alfredo di Stefano is second with 308 goals from 396 matches. Ronaldo wrote on Twitter: 'Happy to have scored 5 goals with this excelent team work. Thank you for all your support.' Madrid's performance was a timely one, coming after they had lost three of their previous five matches in La Liga and the Champions League - including a 2-1 loss to bitter rivals Barcelona in their last outing. Sunday's win saw Madrid close the gap to Barca back to one point ahead of the league leaders' clash at Celta Vigo on Sunday evening, and coach Carlo Ancelotti is looking to the future with optimism. Gareth Bale scored for Wales last week and kept up his scoring form with a goal against Granada . He said: 'Everything went to plan. My team are in good physical shape, the players are fresh and we showed that throughout the match. 'We played with a good tempo and scored bags of goals. We come away from this happy but this is just one game and we have other important ones coming up. 'It's simple mathematics. It's better to win nine games 1-0 than one 9-1. But today we have to point out the good play, the team are back to playing as desired, just like they have played many times before. What mattered most was winning and playing well and we have achieved that.' On Ronaldo, the Italian added: 'He has improved just as the team have. So, what can I say... This is the first time he has scored five goals in a game and that is good news for everyone: for him, for the team and in terms of the upcoming fixtures'. Ronaldo now has 24 La Liga hat-tricks - drawing level with Barcelona star Lionel Messi .

Cristiano Ronaldo bagged five goals in 9-1 victory against Granada . Karim Benzema scored twice for Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid side . Benzema believes Ronaldo 'deserves everything he has achieved'


Stuart McCall has dismissed any thought of his Rangers future being decided before the end of the season as he stressed his Ibrox revival had yet to achieve anything. McCall has restored a buoyancy to the club and won approval from supporters after three successive wins — including triumphs over Hibs and Hearts — ahead of tonight’s trip to face Queen of the South. The former Motherwell boss arrived last month on a deal until the end of the season, with a brief to try to rekindle their promotion push. Stuart McCall has dismissed any thought of his Rangers future being decided before the end of the season . McCall has restored a buoyancy to the club and won approval from supporters after three successive wins . And he is adamant he doesn’t expect any meaningful talks with the Ibrox board until after the play-offs. ‘There’s been no conversation,’ said McCall. ‘At the moment there’s a feelgood factor about the club. ‘The only thing that has happened, apart from results improving, is that self-belief, confidence and morale have come back into the dressing room — along with the support — so we all seem to be onside. McCall is adamant that despite the revival, his Rangers side are yet to achieve anything in the Championship . ‘But that’s all it is. Nothing, I’d imagine, will happen with me until the end of the season. I’m totally, 100 per cent fine with that and all our focus is on winning. ‘We’ve done nothing. We’ve won three games. Football can change so quickly. We have got a really difficult game at Queen of the South, so we’re not taking anything for granted. ‘Contract-wise for me, I know my gig. I’m here until the end of the season and beyond that, I honestly don’t know.’ Shane Ferguson is finally set to arrive at Murray Park next week as part of the loan deal from Newcastle . Meanwhile, Shane Ferguson is finally set to arrive at Murray Park next week, two months after being part of the controversial five-man loan deal struck with Newcastle United. McCall is a fan of the Northern Ireland international but is cautious about his chances of featuring after a long-term knee injury. ‘I think he has done almost two weeks of training,’ said McCall. ‘Unless he is one of these lads who is really fit and can come straight back into it, he will need at least three or four Under-20s games.’

Stuart McCall has led Rangers to three successive wins in recent weeks . Triumphs against Hibs and Hearts won supporters' approval . But he says he does not expect new contract talks until after play-offs . McCall stresses that Rangers are yet to achieve anything despite revival .


Louis van Gaal has a reputation as a no-nonsense disciplinarian but the Manchester United manager punctured that image by revealing just how pleased he was with Ander Herrera's first goal against Aston Villa. The Dutchman explained  he had been imploring the Spanish midfielder to control the ball before shooting in order to demonstrate a greater level of composure. And Van Gaal's emotions got the better of him when the players came in at half-time with a 1-0 advantage thanks to Herrera's 43rd minute strike. Ander Herrera (left) puts Manchester United ahead against Aston Villa with a goal in the 43rd minute . Herrea's (right) goal displayed the first touch that Louis van Gaal was eager to see from him . Van Gaal admitted that he was so pleased with Herrera's opening goal, he kissed him at the interval . 'He has a very good kicking technique and he should be more composed,' Van Gaal said to MUTV. 'I said to him 'you have to control the ball before you shoot'. 'I said that to him again in yesterday's training session, and then I kissed him at half-time because he had controlled the ball for the first time in his life and then he shot. 'But then I came to him after the second-half and he said 'without control I can do it also!' United strengthened their place among the top-four of the Premier League by emerging 3-1 winners against Tim Sherwood's side at Old Trafford on Saturday, with Herrera at the double. Herrera (centre) netted twice as United ended up beating Villa 3-1 at Old Trafford . They moved above local rivals Manchester City and into third on 62 points, but will drop back to fourth if City win at Crystal Palace on Monday. The two sides then meet at Old Trafford next Sunday, with United looking to extend their five-match winning run.

Louis van Gaal wanted  Ander Herrera to control the ball before shooting . Van Gaal was delighted by the composure for Herrera's first goal . The Manchester United boss said he kissed Herrera at half-time .


Christian Benteke faces a substantial pay cut if his goals are not enough to keep Aston Villa in the Premier League – but is set to attract interest should he continue his scoring streak. Whatever Villa's Premier League status this summer, Benteke's future will be discussed as his contract, worth £50,000 per week, enters its final two years and the Belgian striker has ambitions to play European football. Wolfsburg have kept tabs on Benteke since before he ruptured his Achilles 12 months ago and remain on the lookout for a striker. The wealthy German club, currently second in Bundesliga, should have funds available from Champions League money, even after their £42million splurge on Chelsea duo Kevin De Bruyne and Andre Schurrle. Christian Benteke celebrates his opening goal against QPR at Villa Park on Tuesday . Villa value their top scorer at £25million however, and even then would remain hugely reluctant to sell with manager Tim Sherwood a big fan. Randy Lerner is set to offload the club come the closed season and new owners will have their own thoughts. A hat-trick by Benteke in the 3-3 draw with Queens Park Rangers, capped by a brilliant free-kick, underlined his return to form under Sherwood. He has scored seven goals in his last five Villa games, earning the team an additional three points in the process – the current gap to the drop zone. Benteke went on to net a hat-trick which salvaged a vital point for his side . But should Villa slip below the dreaded dotted line and out of the Premier League, Benteke is in line for an approximate 30 per cent reduction on his wages to £35,000 a week. The 24-year-old would look to leave Villa Park in that scenario, rather than play in the Championship, with a host of clubs likely to express interest. There is, however, no relegation release clause. Even if Villa stay in the Premier League Benteke will assess his options. Two years ago he handed in a transfer request to try to force a move to Tottenham Hotspur following his debut season in England yielding 23 goals. The arrival of Tim Sherwood at Villa Park has rejuvenated Benteke's form in front of goal this season . He signed a new four-year deal on vastly improved terms. Last season was less successful, bringing 11 goals before serious injury struck last April ruling Benteke out of the World Cup. His form suffered on return to the side last October, and at times he cut a bereft figure starved of service under Paul Lambert's regime. Lambert even dropped Benteke in his penultimate game in charge at home to Chelsea. Sherwood's arrival has seen Benteke return to his best, with a goal every 87 minutes. That kind of strike rate should keep Villa up, but also alert top-flight clubs. Spurs are looking to sign young players around the £15million mark, though, while Liverpool would need to shift Mario Balotelli. Jack Grealish is convinced Benteke's goals will ensure Villa's Premier League survival this season . Benteke is comfortable with life in Birmingham and at Villa, but holds desires to play higher up the league and in continental competitions. Qualification for the Europa League is still a possibility through the FA Cup for Villa, of course. Teenage winger Jack Grealish, who started his first Premier League match against QPR, is adamant Benteke will help keep Villa safe. 'Yes, when you have Christian in the team who can score goals every game,' he said. 'We are going to go in Saturday's game (at Spurs) positive. 100 per cent we will stay up.'

Christian Benteke is currently paid £50,000 per week at Aston Villa . The Belgium striker has two years left on his current contract . Wolfsburg have been keeping tabs on the Villa forward .


Arsenal target Paolo Dybala has admitted that these could be his last days at Palermo, with the club ready to cash in on their star man. The Argentine forward, 21, has been linked with a number of Europe's top clubs after some dazzling performances in Serie A, and scored his 13th league goal of the season on Saturday. Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini says that Arsenal and Juventus have already approached the club with bids, and while Arsene Wenger has denied interest, £30m-rated Dybala seems set on a move this summer. Paolo Dybala says he could be playing his final games for Palermo as Arsenal and Juventus prepare moves . 'I try not to think too much about the transfer market,' he told Dia Dia. 'I am completely focused on the last 10 games, because they could be my last here.' Liverpool are also thought to be admirers of the youngster, who also visited the Nou Camp to watch Barcelona play earlier this season. However, Dybala insists he was only there for the football, and not to discuss a potential transfer. He added: 'I went to Camp Nou merely as a spectator. There were a lot of great players out on the pitch, it was a great game and it helped me because I learned a lot from watching it.' The Argentine forward scored a penalty during Palermo's 2-1 defeat by AC Milan on Saturday . Dybala now has 13 Serie A goals for the season and has been linked with several European clubs .

Arsenal and Juventus have reportedly bid for Palermo's Paolo Dybala . Argentine forward says final 10 games of season could be his last for club . Arsene Wenger denies interest but Arsenal are said to be his first choice . Dybala scored his 13th goal of Serie A campaign on Saturday .


Bolton-born boxer Amir Khan spent his Friday alongside some fellow natural born fighters as he enjoyed a family trip to a safari park in northern California. Khan posed alongside, and also fed, a rare but dangerous white tiger as well posing with stunning giraffes and sea lions at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. The 28-year-old was joined by his wife Faryal Makhdoom Khan as well as his daughter Lamysa as they all enjoyed some time off. Bolton-born boxer Amir Khan enjoyed a day a safari park with his family in northern California . Khan and his wife and daughter pose with a giraffe as they enjoy a family day at the adventure park . Khan feeds a rare white tiger during his time at the American adventure park in California . Earlier this week Khan ended speculation over his next opponent by announcing he will fight former light-welterweight world champion Chris Algieri on May 30. Khan had come under increasing pressure to take on British rival and IBF welterweight champion Kell Brook in June. However, Khan, who was also linked with bouts against Adrien Broner and Keith Thurman, said he was already deep in negotiations to fight somebody else. Khan (left) has announced his next fight will be against Chris Algieri at welterweight on May 30 .

Amir Khan took his family to an adventure park in Northern California . Khan posed alongside a rare white tiger as well as a giraffe and sea lion . Earlier this week the Bolton-born fighter announced his return to the ring . Khan will take on former light-welterweight world champion Chris Algieri .


With James Rodriguez returning to the Real Madrid squad, Spanish publication Marca have splashed about how Carlo Ancelotti has his 'six nations' available again. The former Monaco playmaker has been out of action since the beginning of February with a foot injury, but has been named in the Real starting XI for the visit of Granada on Sunday. And with that, Ancelotti has a fearsome front line of different nationalities ready to chase down Barcelona in the La Liga run-in. Real Madrid have their 'six nations' available again: (back l-r) Toni Kroos (Germany), Karim Benzema (France), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) - (front) Gareth Bale (Wales), James Rodriguez (Colombia), Luka Modric (Croatia . Mundo Deportivo splash about Lionel Messi's fitness while AS say it is 'operation 30 points' for Carlo Ancelotti . Rodriguez (Colombia), Toni Kroos (Germany), Gareth Bale (Wales), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) and Luka Modric (Croatia, who has also recently returned to full fitness, form the 'hard core' of the Bernabeu side. Elsewhere in Spain, AS claim the rest of the season will be 'operation 30 points' for Ancelotti, with the Italian coach insisting it is not impossible that they will win their remaining 10 games. Mundo Deportivo cover Lionel Messi's foot injury, with the Argentine forward recovering from a foot problem to be part of the Barcelona squad to face Celta Vigo. Meanwhile in Italy, the city of Milan takes centre stage. Filipo Inzaghi's AC Milan beat Palermo 2-1 to make it two wins in a row and maintain a slim hope of European football next season. But Roberto Mancini reportedly brought his Inter Milan squad into training at 8.30am on Easter Sunday after they were held by crisis club Parma. Inter were booed off at the San Siro, and haven't won in Serie A since February. There were contrasting results in Serie A for AC Milan and Inter on Saturday, while Juventus won again .

Real Madrid host Granada at the Bernabeu in La Liga fixture on Sunday . James Rodriguez (Colombia), Toni Kroos (Germany), Gareth Bale (Wales), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) and Luka Modric (Croatia) all available . Lionel Messi in Barcelona squad to play Celta Vigo after foot injury . Inter Milan draw again in Serie A while AC Milan continue resurgent form .


Chelsea are discussing the possibility of a post-season tour, a move that could upset numerous international managers. Jose Mourinho didn't rule out a potential 12,000-mile round trip to Japan, home of new sponsors Yokohama Rubber, . No final decision has been made on a destination but if a tour goes ahead, the squad is likely to fly out on either May 28 or 29 for a two-match, week-long trip. Jose Mourinho did not rule out the prospect of a 12,000-mile round trip for a pre-season tour in Japan . The news may concern a string of international bosses who will be relying on Chelsea players for their mid-June friendlies and qualifiers. For instance, Belgium face France in a friendly on June 7 before a vital Euro 2016 qualifier against Wales on June 12. England, Spain and Serbia, who all have Chelsea players in their squads, all have games between June 12-14. Likewise, the proposed tour would also have implications for Chelsea's South American contingent, including Oscar, Willian and Juan Cuadrado, ahead of the Copa America on June 11. FIFA rules state that nations are entitled to players 14 days before the start of a tournament. It is highly likely that those players involved in the Copa America would be given permission to miss Chelsea's post-season tour. Chelsea are yet to finalise plans for their pre-season as they lead the way at the top of the Premier League . Mourinho said: 'I think we'll go on an after-season tour to play a couple of matches in some destination where people will be very enthusiastic to have the Premier League champions, if we win it. 'It's something we are thinking about, a good way to celebrate. Not a victory parade, but a trip, a week where we play a couple of matches but, at the same time, can be together without the pressure of winning every match, without the pressure and tension of the last weeks of the Premier League. 'We can also relax and go to holidays with that good feeling. But we still have nine matches to play. 'Mr Bruce Buck and the board are talking with me. We want to go somewhere where people are enthusiastic to have a club like Chelsea. 'Japan? I don't know but that would make some sense.'

Chelsea are considering a pre-season tour to Japan this summer . If it goes ahead, the 12,000-mile round trip would likely last for two weeks . But international bosses will require Chelsea players in June .


Blackburn Rovers manager Gary Bowyer has hit out at FA Cup rules which prevent him from fielding one of his own players against Liverpool in Wednesday night's sixth round replay at Ewood Park because he was on loan when the first tie was played on March 9. Bowyer, who has a lengthy injury list at his Championship club, wanted to include 21-year-old midfielder John O'Sullivan to face The Reds having recalled him from a loan spell with League One Barnsley last month. However, there was no dispensation because O'Sullivan was at Oakwell when the initial 0-0 draw between the teams was played at Anfield. Blackburn midfielder John O'Sullivan (right) is ineligible to play in their FA Cup fifth round replay vs Liverpool . Gary Bowyer says it 'doesn't make sense' that he can't use O'Sullivan, who's been recalled from Barnsley . Bowyer said: 'It will be a huge achievement to beat Liverpool in these circumstances. Because of the embargo (for breaching FPP rules) we are only allowed a squad of 24 players and have played 13 games in 43 days. 'So to be told we can't even play one of our own players because he was sent on on loan before the first game doesn't make sense to me. He's only been a Blackburn player for six years! 'We sent John away to help his development. He's back now, he'd be eligible for the semi-final if we get there, but not the quarter-final replay.' Ewood Park will have a capacity crowd for the first time since they were relegated from the Premier League in 2012 and Bowyer hopes the fans take a lead from Crystal Palace supporters. O'Sullivan (left), who was on loan at Barnsley, will be available to play if Blackburn reach the semi-finals though . 'The Palace fans got them over the line against Manchester City on Monday night and we need our supporters to be the 12th man, 13th man or even 14th man. 'There were six thousand of our supporters at Anfield and they never shut up. The players talked about it afterwards and we need them again. There is a buzz around the place.' Liverpool have had a torrid fortnight and arrive in Lancashire without suspended players Emre Can, Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel. In addition, a contract issue with Raheem Sterling has been a distraction while the club have lost their last two league games against Manchester United and Arsenal. 'It's still ridiculous to talk about them as a club in crisis. We are massive underdogs,' added Bowyer, who is without 14 senior professionals including Josh King, Chris Taylor, Grant Hanley and possibly Craig Conway on Wednesday. 'Brendan Rodgers will be wondering what internationals to replace his suspended players with.' Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge (right) shoots during the first fifth round encounter between the two teams . Blackburn players celebrate at the full-time whistle after forcing a replay with a 0-0 draw at Anfield last month .

Liverpool go to Blackburn for FA quarter-final replay on Wednesday . Gary Bowyer's recalled John O'Sullivan from League One Barnsley . Because the midfielder was on loan for first tie he can't play in replay . Bowyer's squad have played 13 games in 43 days with a squad of 24 .


Burnley manager Sean Dyche has complete confidence that his side will beat relegation. The Clarets are gearing up for the final eight games of their Barclays Premier League survival battle reinvigorated after a warm-weather training camp. Sean Dyche's squad - minus the four players on international duty - spent last week in Spain preparing for a run-in that begins with Sunday's tricky visit of Tottenham. Sean Dyche believes his Burnley side are more than capable of avoiding the Premier League drop . They have a tough battle ahead but recent performances - not least last month's defeat of champions Manchester City - have given hope that a side rated as pre-season relegation favourites can escape the bottom three. The idea of a late-season getaway worked wonders last year, as Dyche's men returned to secure a promotion spot and he hopes for a similar boost this time. The 43-year-old said: 'Last year we found it gave the lads a change and a change is almost as good a rest. We came back and we did the business by getting ourselves promoted. Star man Danny Ings will need to be in top form to get the better of the Tottenham Hotspur defence . 'It's a different kind of challenge this time but we want the same outcome which is to win games and be in the Premier League. 'Wins have been hard to come by - or certainly harder to come by - and it's a big jump in quality but I think slowly but surely we're refocusing on what the job is, learning as we go and delivering good performances. 'I have total belief we will be in the Premier League.' George Boyd (21) celebrates after scoring the winner against Manchester City at Turf Moor . Burnley were written off by many after failing to win any of their opening 10 games but have since proved they are no pushovers. They remain in the relegation zone but were still just three points off 15th place ahead of the weekend fixtures. The Spurs clash is followed by another tough task against Arsenal but Dyche has no doubt his side will push hard. He said: 'I don't know what they're thinking (about us) but I think they know we'll give everything to win a game. That's well documented. They know about the energy and physical desire of the team and behind that there is quality there. Harry Kane has been the player of Tottenham's season and will need to be watched carefully on Sunday . 'Of course that's got to win games. We beat Man City but we need more of that, and it's not always good play but a bit of luck, a decision to go your way every now and then. 'I think our performances have been decent at least. We know they're tough games and the next one will be Tottenham but we'll be ready.' Dyche has dismissed suggestions that his side, inexperienced at the top level, could start flagging as the heat intensifies in the coming weeks. Michael Duff (left) challenges Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez during their clash at the Emirates Stadium . He said: 'Last season there was no sign of that and this season there is no sign of that. 'We will be playing hard in every game to get the points we need to be in the Premier League. It feels like there is no slowing down in what I believe, no slowing down in the training schedules. 'We will be training equally as hard - if not harder on certain days - to be ready for the challenge.'

Sean Dyche says his side can avoid relegation from the Premier League . Burnley host Tottenham at Turf Moor in a game they can't afford to lose . The Clarets beat Manchester City in their last home Premier League game . CLICK HERE for all the latest Burnley news .


Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has threatened to send his players to a training camp 'for an unlimited period of time' if they do not improve between now and the end of the season. Di Laurentiis was furious after his team continued their recent slide by losing 1-0 at home to Lazio in the second leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final on Wednesday, going down 2-1 on aggregate. The elimination came on top of a run of five Serie A matches without a win which has seen Napoli drop from third place to sixth, leaving them with only a faint chance of qualifying for the Champions League next season. Lorenzo Insigne reacts as Napoli lost 1-0 at home to Lazio on Wednesday and exited the Coppa Italia . The result heaps more pressure on boss Rafael Benitez, who has not matched the success of his first season . Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis was furious with the result and blasted the commitment from the team . 'I have decided that if there is no change in course between now and the end of the season, the players will go to a training camp... for an unlimited period of time,' he told reporters. 'It's my decision. 'I want discipline,' he continued. 'I have never failed to pay salaries or even delayed them. I have spent 386 million euros (£281million) on the purchase of players in 10 years and I demand commitment. 'I dislike the idea of a training camp as part of the club's philosophy, but Naples is a city which is full of distractions,' he added. 'I demand that they work with me and for a common purpose, with full commitment to the fans and the city. 'Since going to a training camp is uncomfortable in a city such as this, I hope that (the threat) awakens some pride in the players.' The defeat also increased pressure on coach Rafael Benitez, who led Napoli to a third-placed finish  and the Coppa Italia title last season but has failed to build on what was considered a reasonable, but unspectacular, first season. Gonzalo Higuain (right) fails to connect with an acrobatic kick as Napoli lost 2-1 to Lazio on aggregate . Lazio's players celebrate after eliminating Napoli to advance to the final of the Coppa Italia . Senad Lulic (right) converts Lazio's winner at the San Paolo stadium to send his team to the final . He is now left with the Europa League, where Napoli have reached the quarter-finals, as their only chance of silverware this season. 'We got to the Coppa Italia and Europa League quarter-finals, so you can't say we're not doing well,' said the Spaniard, whose contract runs until the end of the season. 'You can't say that we haven't done enough this season, the team has created a lot. 'We created seven clear chances and failed to score from anything thanks to some bad luck and the merits of our opponents. 'We are still alive and kicking, we just need a little more accuracy in front of goal.'

Aurelio De Laurentiis furious after semi-final elimination by Lazio . Napoli owner threatened to send the team to an 'unlimited training camp' Rafael Benitez's side now only have the Europa League as a trophy chance .


LeBron James dealt his former team Miami's play-off hopes a major blow as he scored 23 points in the Cavaliers' win over the Heat on Thursday. The Cleveland forward, who won two NBA titles with Miami before moving back to Ohio, helped his team to a 114-88 win at the American Airlines Arena. Point guard Kyrie Irving also scored 23 points while the Heat saw Dwyane Wade go down with a knee injury in the first half. Brit Luol Deng scored 17 points for Miami, but they will be nervously looking over their shoulder in the Eastern Conference at ninth-placed Boston, with whom they share the same record. LeBron James and Kyrie Irving scored 23 points apiece as the Cleveland Cavaliers won in Miami . James' performance dealt his former team Miami's play-off hopes a massive blow . The 30-year-old also passed Patrick Ewing into 20th placed on the NBA's all-time scoring list . Dwayne Wade (left) hobbled off with a knee injury in a further blow to the Heat's play-off chances . James shakes hands with his former Miami Heat team-mate Mario Chalmers . James, meanwhile, passed Patrick Ewing (24,815) into 20th place on the NBA's all-time scoring list. 'It's an honour,' James said. 'When I was growing up and seeing these guys and you hope that one day you could play in the NBA and seeing what Pat and those guys did in the '90s with that New York Knick team. He was the cornerstone of the whole thing.' Elsewhere, Golden State's Harrison Barnes hit a running shot in the lane with less than a second remaining, lifting the Warriors to a thrilling 107-106 win over Phoenix. Phoenix went ahead against Golden State when Eric Bledsoe broke free for a reverse layup with less than five seconds to play, shortly after Stephen Curry had hit a three-pointer to put the Warriors in front. Harrison Barnes (right) scored the game winning shot to extend Golden State's winning run to 11 games . Barnes drives to the basket to score the last second winning shot, much to the delight of the home fans . Barnes' team-mates run to congratulate him after his shot as they kept their impressive winning run going . There was still time for Barnes to hit the dramatic winner and extend Golden State's winning streak to 11 games. The Suns are now 4-1/2 games behind Oklahoma City, which is eighth in the Western Conference. Also on Thursday night, Houston won 108-101 at Dallas to move half a game ahead of Memphis in the fight for the No 2 seed in the West behind Golden State. James Harden (left) scored 24 points to help the Houston Rockets defeat Texan rivals the Dallas Mavericks . Harden scores a lay-up for the Rockets and move half a game ahead of Memphis in the race for second . James Harden scored 24 points and former Dallas guard Jason Terry hit a tiebreaking three-pointer for the Rockets. Dirk Nowitzki's 21 points led the Mavericks, who seem destined for seventh in the West, leading Oklahoma City by 3-1/2 games.

LeBron James scored 23 points against his former side on Thursday . Miami Heat's Dwayne Wade injured his knee as his side lost to Cleveland . Golden State made it 11 straight wins after Harrison Barnes' late score . Houston beat Texas rivals Dallas thanks to 24 points from James Harden .


Blackpool marked their relegation into Sky Bet League One with a 1-1 draw against Reading, but the fireworks were restricted to outside of Bloomfield Road as long-suffering supporters held protests against Seasiders chairman Karl Oyston. The Tangerines' demotion into the third tier was finally confirmed on Easter Monday and that triggered pre-match public displays of fury from fans at the Oyston family's handling of the club on Tuesday. Dozens of supporters gathered outside the West Stand 45 minutes before kick-off and hurled eggs at the back of the directors' boxes before a flare, smoke bomb and firework were tossed into the cordoned-off area in front of the main reception area. Jamie O'Hara scored from the penalty spot to give Blackpool a lead against Reading on Tuesday night . But defender Grant Hall scored an own goal just after half-time to leave Lee Clark disappointed . Yakubu tussles with Costa Rica international Jose Cubero, who enjoyed a rare start for Blackpool . Blackpool: Lewis (Parish 73); Hall (Maher 50), Clarke, O'Dea, Dunne; Cubero, O'Hara, Perkins, Orlandi (Osavi-Samuel 78), Jacobs; Madine . Goal: O'Hara (pen, 6) Booked: O'Hara . Reading: Federici; Gunter, Pearce, Knight, Obita; McCleary (Mackie 45), Ake, Norwood, Robson-Kanu; Yakubu (Cox 78), Appiah (Pogrebnyak 45) Goal: Hall  (OG, 46) Ref: G. Eltringham . Att: 9,614 . With stewards and police present, the scenes did not descend into violence but the message delivered from those in attendance was clear - they want Oyston to depart a team that this week became the first in the Football League to be relegated. On the pitch, Jamie O'Hara's early penalty was cancelled out by Grant Hall's unfortunate own goal just 20 seconds after the restart as the basement-dwelling Seasiders' winless run was extended to 13 games. Some of the supporters who congregated in front of the West Stand did not even walk into a half-empty stadium for the game and they missed their side taking a sixth-minute lead. Zat Knight got the wrong side of Sheffield Wednesday loanee Gary Madine and tripped him from behind, allowing O'Hara to step up and stroke the resulting penalty into the corner as Adam Federici guessed the wrong way. Blackpool fans gathered outside Bloomfield Road to protest against the Oyston family . Blackpool's main reception at Bloomfield Road was pelted with eggs before their game with Reading . A fan walks out of a Fish and Chips shop, next to a shop selling t-shirts and banners supporting protests . The cut-up pitch arguably denied the hosts a second as the ball bobbled away from David Perkins, who had orchestrated a three-on-two break, on the edge of the Royals' penalty area. Winger Michael Jacobs then blasted into the side-netting from 25 yards as Blackpool entered the interval with a one-goal lead. That disappeared 20 seconds after the restart, though, when the Royals made a lightning start to the second period. Pavel Pogrebnyak made inroads down the left flank and he squared for Yakubu, whose shot back across goal smashed against the unfortunate Hall before going over the line. Hall stayed on the turf and after woozily returning to his feet, he was replaced by Niall Maher. Perkins bent an effort narrowly past a post but Joe Lewis and Federici remained largely untroubled, as did Blackpool substitute Elliot Parish when he replaced an injured Lewis, with Pogrebnyak's header off target the closest either side came to a winner. The result leaves Lee Clark's side on 25 points, still one point shy of the lowest points tally ever accumulated by a team in the second tier when there have been 24 teams competing.

Jamie O'Hara scored from the spot after just six minutes . But Grant Hall's own goal gave Reading a share of the spoils . Blackpool fans protested against owners, the Oyston family . The Seasiders need two more points to pass Stockport's 26 .


England captain Alastair Cook completed a much-needed century on the second morning of England's opening tour match in the West Indies. Cook resumed on 95 and reached three figures with minimal fuss before retiring out. England captain Alastair Cook completed a century on the second morning of England's opening tour match . A controlled thick edge from the first ball of the day brought him an 11th boundary of the innings and in the following over he punched the ball for two off the back foot. He offered a gentle wave of the bat and a handshake to partner Gary Ballance and walked off on 101 from 200 deliveries. That allowed Ian Bell to arrive at the crease, with batting time more important to the tourists than attempting to force a result in this two-day fixture. Ian Bell plays to the offside during day two of the St Kitts and Nevis Invitational XI versus England tour match .

Alastair Cook completed his century on the second morning of action . England captain resumed on 95 and reached three figures before retiring . That allowed Ian Bell to arrive at the crease as tourists continued to bat .


Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers accepts his side cannot afford not to turn up in another big game if their top-four ambitions are to survive. Prior to the international break the Reds' 13-match unbeaten league run was ended at home to Champions League-chasing rivals Manchester United, leaving them five points adrift of the qualification places. Defeat at third-placed Arsenal would be a huge blow to their aspirations of returning to Europe's elite for a second successive season. Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has urged his team to perform well in the clash with Arsenal on Saturday . Rodgers knows they must avoid a repeat of the disappointing first-half display against United which led to their defeat. 'We've made it difficult for ourselves because of our last performance and result, but it's certainly achievable,' he said of their top-four chances. 'Over the course of the last three months, apart from the last game, we've performed very well and we have got results. 'I think people might look at it (the trip to Arsenal) as a must-win game. For me, it is a must-perform game, we want to perform well and we know that when we do that we've got every chance of winning, whether that's at home or away. Rodgers watches over training as he prepares his side to face Arsenal at the Emirates on Saturday . The Liverpool boss addresses his players ahead of the pivotal clash with Arsenal in North London . 'We've had a long two weeks, it's probably one of the few games where after the international break we've had to suffer a little bit, because we didn't perform and lost, but there is extra motivation there to get something from the game and that is something that we clearly want to achieve. 'These final eight games are going to be exciting games and there is still every possibility for us to make the top four.' Many see the two sides as being similar in their approach to how they play, particularly in relation to how they like to keep the ball. That was a feature missing in the United game and it cost them dearly and Rodgers has spent a fortnight over the international break assessing where it went wrong after enjoying so much success in the previous three months. 'Our possession wasn't good enough in our last game,' he added. Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is suspended having been sent off against Manchester United . 'The key for us in the first-half against Manchester United was that we didn't keep the ball well enough and, positionally, we were never in position to receive the ball and press the ball. 'We've talked about that, we've analysed that and we've worked on that; in order for us to maximise how we've been working we need to keep the ball better and be technically better. 'That's a huge part of our game, and it's Arsenal's game. But for us, we'll go there and tactically we are very clear on the idea of the game and we need to get something from the game, that's clear. 'But that was the same before we played the Manchester United game; Arsenal was a game that we wanted to ensure that we got at least a point from and that will be the case at the weekend.' Daniel Sturridge trained on Thursday ahead of Liverpool's trip to Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League . 'We'll be going there looking forward to the game and really motivated to get back to winning again.' Liverpool have been boosted by striker Daniel Sturridge's return to training after a hip injury, while fellow England international Adam Lallana is also expected to be fit after pulling out of Roy Hodgson's squad. However, they will be missing centre-back Martin Skrtel, a virtual ever-present in the league this season, as he begins a three-match suspension alongside captain Steven Gerrard.

Arsenal host top four rivals Liverpool at the Emirates on Saturday . Martin Skrtel and Steven Gerrard are suspended for the pivotal clash . Liverpool lost 2-1 to Manchester United before the international break . Arsenal, in third place, are six points ahead of Liverpool in the league .


This was as far away from the Ashes cauldron as it is possible to be but a quiet day of run scoring against sub-standard opposition in picturesque Basseterre at the start of England’s Caribbean tour meant everything to Jonathan Trott. It must have seemed to Trott that he would never again bat for England when he suffered that brutal dismantling at the hands of Mitchell Johnson during England’s ill-fated last Ashes tour almost 18 months ago. Yet here he was, recovered from the mental condition that forced his departure from Australia and now certain of a new role opening the batting in the first Test in Antigua next week. It is quite a comeback. Jonathan Trott and Alastair Cook combine impressively as England produce dominant display . Cook plays behind square as wicketkeeper Jaison Peters  looks on in Basseterre, St Kitts . If Trott’s return with 72 was the most pleasing aspect of a dominant day for England then an unbeaten 95 for captain Alastair Cook was almost as important. The pair came together here at the top of the order yesterday for the first time since a brief experiment in Bangladesh five years ago in what was a low-key return to work after the embarrassment of England’s first round World Cup exit. Neither Cook nor Trott could be blamed for that nor for the careful way they went about their batting in this two-day practice match against a St Kitts Invitational XI that would struggle to defeat a decent English club side. Stuart Broad bowls in the Carribean sun as England take on a St Kitts and Nevis Invitational XI . Cook and teammate Jonathan Trott talk in between overs during the St Kitts and Nevis Invitational XI game . Such was the scale of England’s World Cup embarrassment that they find themselves very much on trial again now even though they ended last year’s Test summer with three successive wins against India. The failure of Sam Robson to convince alongside Cook has opened the door for the return of Trott ahead of Adam Lyth and he made the most of his chance in a stand of 158 with his captain made in the most comfortable of circumstances. England had barely broken sweat in bowling St Kitts out for 59, another returnee in Ben Stokes taking three wickets in five balls, before Cook and Trott overwhelmed a local side who had bizarrely warmed up in Inter Milan shirts. Perhaps they are better at football than cricket because there was little to concern two players with much to prove for different reasons in Cook and Trott. The captain is back after being demoted from one-day office and looked the more fluent, despatching anything short and moving on to his 50 off 95 balls to follow the three half-centuries he has scored in his last four Test innings. Trott was the only casualty of the day for England and he had to be almost dragged from the crease when he was eventually caught at short leg. ‘It’s almost like he’s never been away,’ said Stokes. ‘It was really good to see the way he just settled back to how he has been over the last few years.’ Quite how much the England attack got out of their morning work-out was questionable because this was a shockingly indisciplined batting display from a St Kitts side who included just seven players with first-class experience. Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad eased their way back after their own humbling World Cups but the most penetrative bowling came from Stokes, who swung the ball consistently on a typically slow and flat Warner Park pitch. England batsmen Cook plays to the leg side during the West Indies Tour match against St Kitts and Nevis XI . Trott plays to the offside to reach his fifty during the St Kitts and Nevis Invitational XI England tour match . England plan to use Stokes, who was left out of the World Cup after a dreadful run, as their all-rounder in this series, batting at six at least until the return of Moeen Ali which they hope will come ahead of the second Test. Stokes and Chris Jordan are clearly ahead of Liam Plunkett and the newcomer Mark Wood in the pecking order while Adil Rashid and James Tredwell appear to be competing for the solitary spinner’s place next week. Both took a wicket towards the end of the St Kitts innings while Tredwell added a spectacular one-handed slip catch. Cook plays to the offside as wicketkeeper Jaison Peters of St Kitts and Nevis Invitational XI looks on . Cook plays to mid off as wicketkeeper Peters looks on during the England tour match .

Jonathan Trott hit an impressive 72 on England return in the Carribean . England captain Alastair Cook hit an unbeaten 95 on a dominant day . Duo played at top order for first time since brief experiment five years ago . England barely broke sweat as they bowled a St Kitts XI all out for 59 .


Jacques Burger encapsulates all the values rugby union’s marketing people love to espouse. Fiercely loyal, brave beyond words, strong and dedicated. At Saracens, who take on Racing Metro in Paris on Sunday in the European Champions Cup quarter-final, the flanker is loved by his team-mates every bit as much as he is loathed by opponents who fear the reckless abandon with which he is prepared to play the game. With a face left battered and bruised by years of punishment, Burger is the man you want on your team. ‘I change into something else when I play rugby, my personality changes,’ said Burger. ‘When I step off the pitch I will be somebody else again. It is pretty weird. You go out there and do your job then you step off and pick up your kids and you are soft again. When it is time to go, there is a switch that turns you on for a big match. Saracens ace Jacques Burger looks to get to grips with Harlequins Marland Yarde . Burger of Saracens tackles Harlequins ace Chris Robshaw in the Aviva Premiership match . ‘My dad always says he doesn’t want to die a healthy man. I don’t want to go down healthy. Hopefully there’ll be a bit of wear and tear. I’m happy to crack on and give 100 per cent every time I get the opportunity.’ Therein lies the challenge facing rugby today. For all we love about these young men who risk serious injury every week in order to entertain us, are the risks becoming too great? Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall described Burger as ‘unique among rugby players’, praising his willingness to ignore risks to his own wellbeing. Burger and Schalk Brits of Saracens tackle Damien Chouly of ASM Clermont Auvergne . Burger  bursts through to score a try during the Aviva Premiership match between Saracens and Harlequins . His continued presence on a rugby field is something of a miracle after undergoing pioneering knee surgery in South Africa more than three years ago which a British specialist refused to carry out because he considered it too extreme. At the very least he will need a full knee replacement in the not-too-distant future. ‘I feel massively blessed,’ said the 31-year-old Namibian farmer’s son from Windhoek. ‘I never thought I’d have come back and played so many games after the surgery. I went through a lot of pain. ‘The physio says I’m a bit like Benjamin Button. I’m going back in time and healing up again. I will probably regret it after rugby when I’m sitting at home having to do some work. But that’s for the future. I’ll worry about that when I get there.’ Sitiveni Sivivatu  is tackled by Burger and Kelly Brown during the Heineken Cup semi final . But while he can be very cavalier with his own body, Burger believes players do need to be protected from themselves at times. ‘It is annoying for players sometimes because you want to crack on and keep playing. But players’ health after rugby has to be the No 1 priority because it is such a short amount of rugby you play in your life.’ The 31-year-old will run out against Racing Metro on Sunday off the back of a performance against Harlequins at Wembley last Saturday that McCall believes was his best since the astonishing man-of-the-match display he produced against Clermont Auvergne in last year’s European semi-final. ‘It’s going to take a big game to bring it home,’ said Burger. ‘The European knockout stages is when you get tested. That’s when some guys become stars and I’m up for that.’

Jacques Burger prepares for battle with Racing Metro in quarter-final clash . At Sarries the flanker is loved by his teammates every bit as much as he is loathed by opponents . Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall described Burger as ‘unique among rugby players’ With a face left battered and bruised by years of punishment, Burger is the man you want on your team .


The importance of Saturday's match against Arsenal for Liverpool’s Champion’s League ambitions cannot be overstated. The reverse fixture, a 2-2 draw in December, prompted Liverpool’s renaissance into the Premier League’s form team. Thereafter, they went 13 top-flight games without defeat and put themselves in contention to qualify for Europe’s top competition before losing to Manchester United in a drama-filled match two weeks ago. Juan Mata's acrobatic volley two weeks ago left Liverpool five points adrift of Manchester United in fourth . Brendan Rodgers' side need to beat Arsenal on Saturday to keep up their chances of a top-four finish . Liverpool have been in good form since they last played Arsenal, but are not in the Champions League spots . A defeat could leave Liverpool eight points adrift of the top four with just seven games to play, a massive mountain to climb. The statistics suggest victory at the Emirates is an unlikely scenario. In six games against the Premier League’s other top-five sides, Liverpool have won just one and picked up four points compared with Manchester United who have won three of five games against their toughest competition. In Arsenal they face a side who have cemented their Champions League spot with four top-flight wins in as many games in March. For their efforts, Arsene Wenger was given the Manager of the Month award for a 14th time and striker Olivier Giroud the Player of the Month trophy. Liverpool are likely to face a side riding on a wave of confidence and optimism so it will be a tough ask to get a result. With more money on offer than ever before, Liverpool know they need to be at Europe's top table . Raheem Sterling and Phlippe Coutinho train ahead of the vital trip to Arsenal on Saturday . It is not just the pride of fans at stake in this game but also the financial security of the club. A Sportsmail study this week revealed the race for Champion’s League has gained even more importance after UEFA announced significant increases in prize money for their top competition from next season. Cash for appearing in the group stages onwards is increasing by up to 50 per cent, and for English clubs there will also be steep hikes in 'market pool' money from UEFA's TV incomes. If an English club were to win next season's Champions League, they would earn around £75m at today's exchange rates from central UEFA funds alone. Ticket income plus any commercial bonuses would be on top. Under current prize money arrangements, clubs reaching the group stage receive £6.4m each plus £750,000 per group win and £370,000 per draw. The basic fee will rise 40 per cent to  £8.9m and each win will jump 50 per cent to £1.1m. Prize money for reaching the last 16, quarter-finals and semi-finals will leap up 57 per cent, respectively to £4m, £4.44m and £5.2m. The prize for being tournament runner-up will jump from £4.8m to £7.8m while the winner's prize will jump from £7.8m to £11.11m. For a team like Liverpool, who enjoy a big worldwide profile, particularly in Asia, money like that could solidify their position among the European elite for the next decade. Securing European football will also be vital to ensure they attract world-class players and keep the ones they already have at the club. Even with Champions League qualification Liverpool were unable to hold on to Luis Suarez last summer . Sterling's contract situation demonstrates how important it is for Rodgers' side to qualify . The contract wrangling with Raheem Sterling in recent weeks will undoubtedly have been a distraction to the player himself and the focus of manager Brendan Rodgers but they will have to put that to one side if they are to overcome Arsenal. On the Sterling subject, it would be much easier to resolve his future and persuade him to remain in Merseyside come the end of the season if Liverpool have the certainty of Champions League football to offer as an enticement. Players want to compete on the biggest stage they can. Regardless of how much money each week is being offered, the chance to play against the best teams in Europe is priceless.

Champions League qualification is more lucrative than ever . Liverpool are already five points off the top four with eight game to go . Raheem Sterling dispute shows how important European football is .


Olivier Giroud's Barclays Premier League player of the month award makes the French the league's outright most successful foreign nationality, with the Arsenal striker becoming France's 16th winner of the accolade. Giroud netted five times in Arsenal's four consecutive league wins last month as Arsene Wenger's side took all 12 points on offer to claim the award for March. And in doing so he joined a long list of his compatriots to be ranked as a month's best player in the English top flight, alongside the likes of Thierry Henry, Eric Cantona and Nicolas Anelka. Olivier Giroud won the Barclays Premier League player of the month award for March after his run of form . Thierry Henry collects the award for April before a match at Highbury in May 2000, one of four wins for him . David Ginola was the first French winner of the award, claiming it while at Newcastle in August 1995 . August 1995: David Ginola, Newcastle . March 1996: Eric Cantona, Manchester United . April 1998: Emmanuel Petit, Arsenal . December 1998: David Ginola, Tottenham . February 1999: Nicolas Anelka, Arsenal . April 2000: Thierry Henry, Arsenal . August 2001: Louis Saha, Fulham . August 2002: Sylvain Wiltord, Arsenal . September 2002: Thierry Henry, Arsenal . February 2003: Robert Pires, Arsenal . January 2004: Thierry Henry, Arsenal . April 2004: Thierry Henry, Arsenal . November 2008: Nicolas Anelka, Chelsea . March 2010: Florent Malouda, Chelsea . December 2010: Samir Nasri, Arsenal . March 2015: Olivier Giroud, Arsenal . Giroud's prize sees his country edge out Holland as the most successful nation in terms of player of the month awards, beaten only by the native English on home territory. Much of that success comes down to Giroud's club, Arsenal. They have provided 10 French winners with Henry, Anelka, Emmanuel Petit, Sylvain Wiltord, Robert Pires and Samir Nasri have all won it while in north London. Former Arsenal striker Henry is the top Frenchman was four awards, trailing only Steven Gerrard (on six), Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer (both five), and sitting in good company, level with Cristiano Ronaldo, Dennis Bergkamp, Frank Lampard and Paul Scholes. 'I'm really pleased with it,' Giroud told Arsenal's official website after winning the March prize. 'I would like to thank my team-mates and of course the fans, because it's a collective sport and I couldn't do it on my own. 'It's a great honour to have been selected as Player of the Month, especially because we wanted to bounce back from the Champions League disappointment. Manchester United's French forward Eric Cantona was named player of the month in March 1996 . Emmanuel Petit is pictured with another Frenchman, Arsene Wenger. He won the award in April 1998 . Nicolas Anelka won the award twice: with Arsenal in February 1999 and then with Chelsea in 2008 . Louis Saha's performances for Fulham saw him crowned as the month's best player in August 2001 . England - 88 . France - 16 . Holland - 15 . Spain - 8 . Republic of Ireland, Wales - 6 . Portugal - 5 . Argentina, Nigeria - 4 . Brazil, Italy, Scotland, Trinidad and Tobago - 3 . Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Finland, Ghana, Russia, Senegal, Sweden, Uruguay - 2 . Australia, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Costa Rica, Croatia, Germany, Iceland, Jamaica, Paraguay, Serbia, Turkey - 1 . 'That's what we've done and we've come back really strongly. We all want to finish strongly and this award will give me more confidence for the following games.' Giroud averaged a goal every 72 minutes throughout March, and his excellent levels of performance are no change for the French on English shores. Aside from the Arsenal contributions,  Ginola, Louis Saha, Anelka (for Chelsea) and Florent Malouda have all been named as the player of the month at some point during their spells in England. Spanish, Irish, Welsh, Portuguese, Argentine and Nigerian players have all done well too, but every country aside from England and Holland have, at most, half the number France have. And to make the point of their dominance even more, look to European rivals Germany. They have had just one winner, the first: Jurgen Klinsmann in 1994. Sylvain Wiltord's early season form saw him claim the player of the month prize in August 2002 for Arsenal . Another Frenchman playing for Arsenal, Robert Pires, was a winner in February 2003 at Highbury . Florent Malouda was the second of two French winners coming from Chelsea when he won in March 2010 . Samir Nasri's time at Arsenal ended acrimoniously but he was the player of the month in December 2010 .

Olivier Giroud won March's Premier League player of the month award . He is the 16th French winner of the top flight's monthly accolade . France are the award's most successful foreign nation ahead of Holland . Eric Cantona, Thierry Henry and Nicolas Anelka have all won the prize .


Liverpool head to Arsenal on Saturday in the lunchtime Premier League kick-off, and we could be in for a goal-fest if the history of this fixture is anything to go by. Five hat-tricks have been scored in this match-up since the inception of the Premier League, one more than has been netted in Newcastle United vs Manchester United games. Whats more, their meeting in December at Anfield ended in an entertaining 2-2 draw after an injury-time equaliser from Martin Skrtel. Martin Skrtel scored an injury-time equaliser in Liverpool's 2-2 draw with Arsenal at Anfield in December . Robbie Fowler scored the quickest hat-trick in Premier League history for Liverpool against Arsenal in 1994 . Thierry Henry scored a treble against Liverpool for Arsenal at Highbury back in 2004 . Fowler has scored two of the five hat-tricks that have been netted in Liverpool vs Arsenal fixures . This fixture's first hat-trick hero in the Premier League era was Robbie Fowler, who scored three times at Anfield in August 1994. His goals, with just four minutes and 35 seconds between the first and the third hitting the net, is in fact the quickest hat-trick in Premier League history. And it was Fowler again who scored a treble 16 months later. Just two days before Christmas in 1995, Fowler responded to Ian Wright's eight-minute penalty by scoring in the 40th, 59th and 78th minute to give the Reds victory at Anfield. Liverpool vs Arsenal has produced the most hat-tricks in a single fixture in Premier League history. Here is a list of those five trebles and who scored them... MATCH . Liverpool 3-0 Arsenal . Liverpool 3-1 Arsenal . Arsenal 4-2 Liverpool . Liverpool 4-1 Arsenal . Liverpool 4-4 Arsenal . TEAM . Liverpool . Liverpool . Arsenal . Liverpool . Arsenal . PLAYER . Robbie Fowler . Robbie Fowler . Thierry Henry . Peter Crouch . Andrey Arshavin . DATE . 28/08/1994 . 23/12/1995 . 09/04/2004 . 31/03/2007 . 21/04/2009 . Frenchman Henry scores his first by slotting the ball between the legs of Jerzey Dudek . Henry gestures to the Highbury crowd after scoring a hat-trick against Liverpool . Now Arsenal's first treble against Liverpool came from, you guessed it, Thierry Henry. The Frenchman, aided by a strike from fellow countryman Robert Pires, led the Gunners to a 4-2 victory at Highbury in April 2004. The fourth hat-trick of this fixture was scored by Peter Crouch in March 2007, when the big striker helped Liverpool to a 4-1 victory at Anfield. Peter Crouch points to sky in celebration of his hat-trick against Arsenal in March 2007 . The former England striker (right) rises highest to score the second goal of the match . Crouch (centre) is congratulated by Liverpool team-mates Jermaine Pennant (left) and Dirk Kuyt . Finally, the pick of the bunch is Andrey Arshavin's haul - because it was actually a quadruple! In a brilliant 4-4 draw at Anfield in April 2009, Arshavin scored all of Arsenal's goals and crowned one of the all-time great individual performances in Premier League history. Andrey Arshavin runs off pointing four fingers in the air after he scored all of Arsenal's goals in a 4-4 draw . The Russian smashes in his fourth goal during the 4-4 at Anfield in April 2009 .

Arsenal host Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday . This fixture has produced most hat-tricks in Premier League history . Five trebles have been netted during Liverpool against Arsenal matches . Robbie Fowler (twice), Thierry Henry, Peter Crouch and Andrey Arshavin have all scored three or more times in a single fixture .


Liverpool players Mario Balotelli, Fabio Borini, Rickie Lambert and Lazar Markovic got more than they bargained for when YouTube star Bas van Velzen arrived at Melwood. The Merseysiders were led to believe that the Dutch free-kick specialist was a competition winner who had won the opportunity to meet the Anfield stars and receive a dead-ball masterclass. After a few rounds of action, however, it became clear to Balotelli and his team-mates that they were not dealing with a regular fan as Van Velzen showcased his skills in front of goal. (Left to right) Rickie Lambert, Fabio Borini, Lazar Markovic and Mario Balotelli meet Bas van Velzen . Van Velzen lines up his first free-kick of the day as the Liverpool stars watch on . Balotelli and Lambert watch as Van Velzen showcases his dead-ball skills at Melwood . The stand-in keeper was helpless as the YouTube star's strike sailed into the top corner . After a poor first effort, Balotelli sends a perfectly-executed free-kick into the top corner . Balotelli looks pleased with his effort as Markovic (left) and Van Velzen wait for their turn . Van Velzen has become a YouTube sensation by uploading videos of his free-kick exploits and he certainly wowed the Liverpool quartet. 'The whole experience was amazing, especially meeting Balotelli and getting involved with the other Liverpool players,' said Van Velzen. 'It's every fan's dream to play football with their idols and I really enjoyed pretending that I wasn't very good at free-kicks. 'Seeing the players' faces when they saw me shoot was also really satisfying.' Van Velzen had one last surprise for Balotelli as he unveiled the Liverpool forward's infamous slogan . Balotelli wore his famous t-shirt during Manchester City's 6-1 win over United in October 2011 .

Liverpool players Mario Balotelli, Fabio Borini, Rickie Lambert and Lazar Markovic believed that Bas van Velzen was acompetition winner . The Reds players were all set to give Van Velzen a free-kick masterclass . But Van Velzen's dead ball skills became apparent very quickly . CLICK HERE for the latest Liverpool news .


Kenwyne Jones came from the bench late on to score within three minutes of his Bournemouth debut and rescue a point away to Ipswich. The pass the parcel of the Championship top spot continued as Bournemouth could only draw after falling behind to an early Freddie Sears goal. They dominated the match, but had to wait until the 82nd minute for Jones, taken on loan from Cardiff 10 days ago, to power in a header. Kenwyne Jones (right) celebrates acrobatically after levelling for Bournemouth against Ipswich . Bournemouth's players mob Jones after he earned them a point from the game against Ipswich . Freddie Sears celebrates putting Ipswich ahead against Bournemouth at Portman Road after six minutes . Sears (left) converted from close range to put Ipswich ahead in the early exchanges of the game . Bournemouth (4-4-2): Boruc; Francis, Cook (Jones 79), Elphick, Daniels; Ritchie, Surman, Arter, Fraser (Smith 78); Pitman (Kermorgant 65), Wilson. Subs not used: Camp, Ward, Gosling, MacDonald. Manager: Eddie Howe . Booked: Arter . Goal: Jones, 82 . Ipswich (4-3-3): Bialkowski; Chambers, Smith, Berra, Fryers; Skuse, Tabb, Bishop (Chaplow 57); Varney (Clarke 90), Sears (Wood 79), Murphy. Subs not used: Gerken,, Anderson, Williams, McGoldrick. Manager: Mick McCarthy . Booked: Chambers . Goal: Sears, 6 . Referee: Robert Madley . Attendance: 22,672 . ‘We scored an un-Bournemouth goal,’ manager Eddie Howe admitted afterwards. ‘But it was equally effective as any, from a set piece. It’s good to see, we haven’t come back from being behind much this season. ‘Jones is a presence, but he’s more than that he’s got good feet, he was excellent when he came on. He’s very important in terms of scores like this and the situation the game was in. That’s when he’s probably going to play his biggest part. It’s his job to turn those into points for us. He could be invaluable.’ All it took was a split second lapse in concentration from Bournemouth’s defence and they were behind in only the sixth minute. The first half was still taking shape when Daryl Murphy was afforded time and space on the right inside the box to bring a cross under control with a lovely touch and pass into Sears to fire in first-time. The striker, formerly of West Ham, was so free he looked over to the linesman, fearing he was offside, but the flag stayed down and he notched up his 19th goal of the campaign. Ipswich goalkeeper Bartosz Bialkowski was diving left, right and centre for the remainder of the game to keep his side ahead. Twice he denied Ryan Fraser and again a powerful effort from Matt Ritchie. But Jones was thrown on in the 79th minute and rose to meet Ritchie’s left-hand side corner to finally beat the Polish keeper. Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy said: ’They put a very, very, very expensive acquisition on. He is pretty good in the air. I’ve just watched it and Tommy Smith is head-to-head with him, it’s one of those you get your head on it sometimes it flies in sometimes it doesn’t. He’s started to pay a bit back, I’d say.’ Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy shakes hands with Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe before the game . Bournemouth defender Steve Cook clears the ball under pressure from Ipswich forward Sears . Cook (left) of Bournemouth contests a header with Ipswich attacker Daryl Murphy . Bialkowski pulled off his save of the match in stoppage time, making a one-handed stop at full-stretch to reach substitute Yann Kermorgant’s header from another Ritchie corner. Bournemouth are unbeaten in seven, but no-one is able to get a grip at the top of the Championship table. ‘I’ve not known a league change hands so much,’ Howe added. ‘I’ve not known it so tight. It’s crazy. I said a few weeks ago there could be plenty more twists and turns. ‘I think everyone is hoping they can be the team which breaks away. With so few games to go now it looks unlikely. It all goes down to the team who can hold their nerve the most and who can continue to avoid the pressure of what’s at stake.’

Freddie Sears put Ipswich ahead from close range after six minutes . Mick McCarthy's side had the lead at the half-time interval . Kenwyne Jones equalised with a header on his Bournemouth debut .


Australia coach Darren Lehmann has defended his players following criticism of their behaviour during Sunday’s World Cup final win over New Zealand. Wicketkeeper Brad Haddin came under fire for his send-off of Kiwi opener Martin Guptill, and a photograph of Haddin and all-rounder James Faulkner mocking Grant Elliott after his dismissal cast a shadow over the Australian’s fifth World Cup triumph. Brad Haddin clapped in Martin Guptill's face after the New Zealand batsman was bowled during the final . But Lehmann insisted Haddin was following team orders. And he was able to cite the ICC’s failure to censure his team as evidence that they hadn’t gone over the top. ‘He’s copped a bit, hasn’t he?’ Lehmann said. ‘No one got reported out of the game, so we must have played it fair. It was a little bit disappointing, but people are entitled to their opinions and you’re going to have good and bad times. You accept that and you move on. ‘We’re happy with the way we played, obviously. We knew we wanted to be really aggressive against them, and look, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t.’ Grant Elliott (left) was also given a less-than-sporting send-off by Haddin and James Faulkner (second right) Boorish behaviour on Sunday cast a shadow over the Australian’s fifth World Cup triumph . But Sportsmail’s David Lloyd, who is part of the ICC’s umpire selection panel, has added his voice to the chorus of criticism aimed at the Australians. ‘I was very disappointed at some of the behaviour in cricket’s showpiece event, particularly from the Australians,’ he said. ‘Watching it on my TV, and as a president of a local league, I know what will happen: this will be repeated in leagues across the land, because the players will think it’s macho. It’s not.’ Meanwhile, ICC president Mustafa Kamal has resigned after falling out with his colleagues. Kamal, a Bangladeshi, had labelled the ICC the ‘Indian Cricket Council’ after his side’s quarter-final loss to India was marred by questionable umpiring, and was barred from presenting the trophy at the MCG on Sunday.

Wicketkeeper Brad Haddin came under fire for send-off of Martin Guptill . All-rounder James Faulkner mocked Grant Elliott after his dismissal . Sportsmail's David Lloyd added his voice to the chorus of criticism .


Rickie Fowler has earned extra brownie points with his growing legion of fans after calling out an online hater who accused his girlfriend of being a 'gold digger.' The golfer's girlfriend, bikini model Alexis Randock, had posted a photo on her Instagram account of her and sister Nicole on the beach last week. The photo was shared with her 25,000 followers, which included an abusive commenter known as 'fatalsplash' who was quick to judge and accused Alexis of being a 'gold digger.' Rickie Fowler's girlfriend and bikini model Alexis Randock poses for a picture with her sister Nicole . Randock (centre) was criticised by an online troll for not working due to her relationship with Fowler (right) Fowler  has earned extra brownie points with his growing legion of fans after calling out an online hater . A troll called 'fatalsplash' then accused Alexis of being a 'gold digger' who didn't have to work . 'Must be nice getting s*** free in life and not have to work for it,' he posted. It wasn't long before Fowler came to his girlfriend's defence and responded to the troll that he 'might want to get your facts straight before you talk to my girl friend like that', reports the Golf Channel. Alexis also wasn't shy about standing up for herself. 'That's hilarious. I work my butt off to be able to fully support myself in NYC, I'm out here grinding to live a nice life,' she posted. Fowler received a number of positive comments from other posters who commended him on standing up for his girlfriend. 'Fatalsplash' - who has since changed his user name to - '@dont_hava_usename' - was roundly criticised, being called a moron and accused of working at McDonald's. The troll even attempted to backtrack by offering Alexis congratulations for supporting herself. Fowler told the hater to 'get your facts straight', while Alexis informed him that she worked her 'butt off' Fowler received a number of comments from posters who commended him on standing up for his girlfriend .

Rickie Fowler responded to  online troll who abused his girlfriend . Bikini model Alexis Randock had posted a photo on her Instagram account . Randock was pictured on the beach alongside her sister Nicole . A troll called 'fatalsplash' then accused Alexis of being a 'gold digger' Fowler told the hater to 'get your facts straight' following comment .


England batsman Ian Bell has signed a three-year contract extension with Warwickshire that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2017 season. Bell signed his first contract with Warwickshire in 1999 after progressing through the youth ranks from the Under-11 team. The 32-year-old has gone on to play 105 Test matches and 161 one-day internationals for England. Ian Bell has won five trophies with Warwickshire, including the the County Championship in 2004 and 2012 . Bell said: 'As a Warwickshire man through and through, I'm absolutely delighted to commit to this fantastic club for another three years. 'I have many ambitions I'm still desperate to fulfil, both on a domestic and international level, and I look forward to hopefully achieving these over the coming years as a Bear.' Bell has won five trophies with Warwickshire, including the the County Championship in 2004 and 2012, the B&H Cup in 2002, the Clydesdale Bank 40 in 2010 and most recently the NatWest T20 Blast at Edgbaston last season. Bell (centre) leaves the field following England's World Cup loss to New Zealand in Wellington in February . He has scored 48 centuries in 246 first-class matches. Warwickshire director of cricket Dougie Brown said: 'Ian is a Bear through and through and he has been a fantastic servant to the club. 'Whilst he continues to play a leading role for England, he is also an invaluable member of our squad who makes a huge contribution on and of the pitch. 'He has been one of the best batsmen in the world for several years and everyone at the club is delighted that he remains a Bear for the foreseeable future.' Bell departs for England's four-Test tour of West Indies on Thursday, ahead of two home series against New Zealand and Australia this summer.

Ian Bell's deal will keep him at the club until the end of the 2017 season . Bell signed his first contract with Warwickshire in 1999 . The England batsman has played 105 Test matches for his country . He has scored 48 centuries in 246 first-class matches .


Yorkshire have signed India international Cheteshwar Pujara until the end of May after cancelling the contract of Younis Khan. Younus was set to be Yorkshire's overseas signing for 2015, but the batsman is now looking to be part of Pakistan's potential touring party to Bangladesh, effectively ruling him out of any playing time in the LV= County Championship. Pujara will instead link up with the Division One champions - subject to receiving a work permit - having spent time at the back end of last season with Derbyshire, scoring 219 championship runs for them. Yorkshire director of cricket Martyn Moxon announced in a statement that Younus made his international intentions clear on Sunday, and added: 'We have moved quickly to bring in Pujara and he is a superb player. Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has joined Yorkshire on a deal until the end of May . 'He is an outstanding young Test cricketer, who is hungry to perform in the English game. In the brief conversations I have had with him, he is very much looking forward to be joining Yorkshire and being part of our plans.' Pujara, 27, made his international Test debut in 2010, and with six centuries in the five-day game is a highly rated part of India's squad with many seeing him as the natural successor to Rahul Dravid. Pujara, who boasts nearly 9,000 first-class runs, will turn out for Yorkshire until Australian Aaron Finch is free of Indian Premier League commitments with Mumbai Indians. 'I was looking to return to the UK after my previous experience of county cricket, which I greatly enjoyed, and when Yorkshire made the offer I didn't think twice,' Pujara said. 'To wear the same white rose Sachin Tendulkar did is going to be a great feeling for me. I hope I can contribute to further success.'

Indian batsman joins Division One champions until end of May . Yorkshire cancelled the contract to Pakistan batsman Younis Khan . Khan instead wants to be part of Pakistan's tour of Bangladesh . Aaron Finch will join Yorkshire after the Indian Premier League .


Former Rangers striker Marco Negri has revealed he quit the Scottish giants after fearing he was HIV-positive. Negri joined the Ibrox outfit from Italian side Perugia for £3.5million in 1997, scoring a staggering 23 goals in his first 10 league games for the club. However, a series of injuries destabilised his career in Glasgow including a reserve match against Aberdeen on November 13, 2000. Ex-Rangers forward Marco Negri has revealed that he quit the club after fearing he had AIDS . Cosenza (Italy) - 19 goals in 34 league games - (1994-95) Perugia (Italy) - 33 in 60 - (1995-97) Rangers - 32 in 30 - (1997-2001) Vicenza (Italy, on loan) - 1 in 9 - (1999-00) Bologna (Italy) - 0 in 3 - (2001-02) Cagliari (Italy) - 2 in 5 - (2002) Livorno (Italy) 8 in 10 - (2002-03) Perugia - 0 in 3 - (2004-05) During the encounter the then 30-year-old forward was on the receiving end of a crunching tackle that caused his right shinbone to bleed profusely. After hospital tests and treatment for what was perceived as a 'deep wound', Negri returned to action in the New Year to train with the reserve team where he suffered a shooting pain in his right knee and leg. Further scans at Ross Hall Hospital showed an inflammation of the shinbone and more worryingly that properties of his blood had been attacked by a lymphogranuloma or lymphosarcoma - common symptoms for those that suffer with HIV/AIDS. However, in his imminent autobiography 'Moody Blue - The Story of the Mysterious Marco', which is serialised in the Daily Record; the now 44-year-old reveals that his worst fears weren't confirmed after flying to Italy for treatment. 'I was immediately hospitalised. I hadn’t even considered the possibility of being HIV positive but the harsh reality was there in front of me in the medical report, and it was hard to ignore and digest,' Negri wrote. In his  autobiography, Negri (left) reveals his nightmare started after a reserve match vs Aberdeen in 2000 . After months of hospital scans in Scotland, Negri (right) was told in Italy that his blood was absolutely fine . 'I didn’t feel able to deal with such a thing alone. I needed my family around me and wanted to undergo further tests in Italy to understand exactly what was going on, the risks and chances of recovery. 'I had to return to Italy, and not on a temporary basis. I asked my lawyer to speak to Rangers about an early dissolution of my contract. 'They had no objections to the premature ending of our relationship, which was something I really appreciated, although it also showed me how serious my condition was. 'Luckily, I didn’t have to wait long to learn I was simply suffering a stress fracture of the tibial axis of the knee. This diagnosis was given by doctors in Bologna. In Scotland they hadn’t got it right this time, even if the results of three blood tests confirmed some anomalies that couldn’t be overlooked. 'Further tests found my blood to be absolutely fine and there was no need for medication or invasive treatment. My drama had been resolved in the best way possible, and I put behind me the endless days of terror when the worst case scenario was swimming around in my head.' Negri scored a staggering 23 goals in his first 10 league games for Rangers after joining in 1997 .

Marco Negri joined Rangers for £3.5million from Perugia in 1997 . Striker suffered a shinbone injury in a reserve match vs Aberdeen in 2000 . Hospital scans showed properties of his blood had symptoms of AIDS . Further scans in Italy proved Negri's blood to be absolutely fine .