Gary Locke will be confirmed as Kilmarnock’s permanent manager on Friday - exactly eight weeks after he was asked to take charge until the end of the season. An announcement will be made by the Rugby Park club on Friday morning, with the former Hearts boss being given a three-year deal. And on Thursday the 39-year-old paid tribute to the players whose efforts have helped him win favour with new chairman Jim Mann since he replaced Allan Johnston on a caretaker basis in February. Kilmarnock will confirm Gary Locke as the club's new permanent manager on Friday . ‘I’d be over the moon to get it as it’s something I’ve worked hard towards,’ said Locke while negotiations were being finalised at the Ayrshire club. ‘I had a taste of it (management) at Hearts and really enjoyed it. I’m fortunate I was put into this position at a great club. It’s a fantastic opportunity. ‘But I’ve said all along, it’s not about me. It’s about players. If they perform, you get a better reputation as a manager and that has been the case here with a great response from them. ‘That’s how football works. If they play well, your stock rises. Equally, if they don’t play well, it’s the manager who gets the stick. ‘I’ve got broad shoulders and I know what to expect but I can’t praise the players highly enough. They have worked so hard and they have taken on board everything I have tried to tell them.’ Ex-Killie and Hearts player Locke, who was crestfallen not to be retained by the Tynecastle club as head coach after they were relegated last season, added: ‘(Coaches) Alan Robertson and Billy Thomson have done a fantastic job in helping me, too. ‘You can’t do all of these things by yourself and backroom staff can be as important as the players. I can’t thank all of these people enough.’ Locke, who returned to Rugby Park last summer, had been working as No 2 under Johnston when the manager announced in February that he would be leaving the club at the end of the season, indicating that the £150,000 sale of teenage forward Robbie Muirhead to Dundee United had been a factor in his decision. After Johnston was immediately relieved of his duties by the club hierarchy, assistant Locke was put in charge and was initially regarded as a stop-gap appointment. But he quickly won over the players and a team that had previously been struggling in the league went unbeaten in their first six games under his stewardship. They only suffered their first reverse under Locke when Ross County beat them 2-1 in Dingwall two weeks ago. Kilmarnock went unbeaten during Locke's first six games in charge of the club . He has impressed Mann not only with results but with the way he has conducted himself during his two months at the helm. Kilmarnock are currently eighth in the Premiership and still remain in the hunt for a top-six place. It was expected that Locke would have been appointed permanently before now, but he dismissed reports that talks had stalled due to a clause that would see him sacked if the club failed to achieve a top-six finish this season. ‘When you are dealing with contracts, they take a bit of time and I certainly don’t foresee any problems,’ he said. ‘There hasn’t really been a hold-up. As any player or manager will tell you, when it comes to the terms of a contract, it doesn’t just happen overnight. There are a lot of things to discuss and I have done that. ‘I will keep all that private because that is the way it should be and the club have dealt with it brilliantly. ‘I’ve no complaints there, so I hope it will be sorted before Saturday and I can concentrate on our home game against Motherwell. ‘Our new board of directors have been fantastic. I’ve been really impressed with the way that they have handled everything. The club itself is trying to be as positive as possible. ‘There are a lot of plans in place to make the club even better than it is right now, so there are loads of positives and I would like to be part of that.’ Having resolved his own situation, Locke will next week turn his attention to the futures of nine first-team players at Kilmarnock — Manuel Pascali, Alexei Eremenko, Craig Slater, Craig Samson, Sammy Clingan, Greg Kiltie, Conor Brennan, Chris Chantler and Mark O’Hara — who will become free agents this summer. ‘I’ve said for a number of weeks now that once my own position was sorted out, there are a few players out of contract and they will want to know what their futures are,’ he said. ‘So it will be great to get moving on all of that and prepare for next season. ‘You can’t do that until you are the main man.’

Gary Locke will be confirmed as Kilmarnock boss on Friday . The club went unbeaten during Locke's first six games in charge . The 39-year-old former Killie defender has paid tribute to his players .


Chinese parents are passionate about raising child prodigies - whether they are 10-year-old university entrants or four-year-old Michael Jackson dance-alikes. Now a new basketball superstar is on the rise. A viral video is making the rounds in China, which shows a small boy displaying a dazzling array of basketball skills that would put to shame many professional players. The five-year-old child is called Mai Zizhuo and he has been shooting hoops since he was two and a half years old, reported the People's Daily Online. The video starts off with the pint-sized player scoring a succession of hoops before running around dribbling two basketballs. His eyes are focused on the camera while handling two basketballs at the same time and still he didn't lose rhythm once. His incredible skills have won him legions of fans across basketball-mad China. The country's biggest basketball star so far has been Shanghai-born Yao Ming, who played for NBA's Houston Rockets from 2002 to 2011. Talented: Five-year-old Mai Zizhuo shows his outstanding basketball skills in a viral video . Skilful: The pint-sized player scored a succession of hoops before running around dribbling two basketballs . Praised: His incredible skills have won him legions of fans across China . Stunned by Mai's potential, netizens in China leave comments by the thousands. Lakers fan 'Siu720' said: 'I can't believe it……..it must be special effects!' 'NickWooster' from Fujian simply asking: 'Who is his father?' Others feel ashamed of their own basketball skills in comparison to the kid. 'Cubex' from Hunan posted: 'I want to reincarnate and start over again! What have I been doing for the past 32 years?'

Mai Zizhou has been trained to play basketball since 2.5 years old . Video shows him shooting the hoops and dribbling two basketballs . His incredible skills have won him legions of fans around China .


Bayern Munich will be without versatile left-back David Alaba for the closing stages of the season after he was ruled out for around seven weeks with a torn knee ligament. Alaba, out for three months earlier this season after a partial ligament tear in his right knee, was injured while playing for Austria in their 1-1 draw against Bosnia on Tuesday. 'I am bitterly disappointed,' the 22-year-old told the club's website. 'But I have a big aim and that is to be there at the season finale.' David Alaba is tackled by Emir Spahic's tackle during Austria's 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina . Marc Janko (left) celebrates with Martin Harnik and Alaba after he scored against Liechtenstein last Friday . He is set to start rehabilitation work in about a month, Bayern said. Alaba had been in superb form for Bayern since his comeback, helping them stay firmly on track for a treble of titles with some spectacular goals. Bayern, who are top of the Bundesliga with eight games left and through to the German Cup last eight, face Porto in the Champions League quarter-finals later this month. Alaba (left) has been in excellent form for Bayern this season as the Bavarian giants chase a treble of titles .

Austria drew 1-1 against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Tuesday night . David Alaba picked up a knee injury during the first half of the game . Alaba was out for three months earlier this season after he suffered a partial ligament tear in his right knee .


Hull KR have plugged the gap created by the loss of front row pair Michael Weyman and Ryan Bailey with the capture of experienced Australian forward Dane Tilse from Canberra Raiders. The 6ft 7in, 17st-plus Tilse has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Robins and will join them as soon as he receives the necessary paperwork after the Raiders agreed to release him. Tilse, 30, who has made 200 appearances Down Under, will link up with his old Canberra team-mate Terry Campese, the new Hull KR captain who on Tuesday signed a two-year contract extension, and is a like-for-like replacement for Weyman, who announced his retirement due to injury last month. Australian forward Dane Tilse will move from Canberra Raiders to Hull KR on a two-and-a-half-year deal . The Raiders have agreed to release the 6ft 7in forward and only paperwork delays his start for the Robins . Rovers, who have appointed former England captain Jamie Peacock as their football manager for 2016, were further depleted in the front row when they agreed to release ex-Leeds prop Bailey for personal reasons. Tilse comes in after the sudden retirement of Michael Weyman and Ryan Bailey's departure . Hull KR head coach Chris Chester, who had been linked with a move for Tilse's Canberra team-mate David Shillington, said: 'It's no secret that we've been short on numbers in the front row after the departures of Mick and Ryan Bailey and we wanted to strengthen in that area. 'Our forwards have coped very well in the circumstances but we've been scouring the market for props and we're delighted to be bringing in someone of Dane's calibre. 'He's got a very good pedigree over in the NRL and he's coming here in what should be the prime of his career for a front rower. 'We're excited to see him take to the field for us and he'll be a big part of the squad moving forwards. We've got to go through the necessary process regarding his visa, but we're hopeful of having him on board in the next three to four weeks.' Tilse, a former Junior Kangaroo who was an ever-present for Canberra in both 2013 and 2014, said he spoke to former Hull KR hooker Josh Hodgson, who joined the Raiders at the end of last season, before finalising the move. 'It's a new challenge for me to come over there and it's one I'm really looking forward to,' Tilse said. 'Everybody I've spoken to has had good things to say about Rovers and it sounds like a club on the way up. 'I've had a brief chat to Josh Hodgson and he spoke very highly of the club, as did Mick Weyman's dad. I played with Mick at Canberra and his old man said how much he'd enjoyed it over there. Tilse will link up with his former Raiders team-mate Terry Campese, the new Hull KR captain . 'It's a different style of game in Super League, it's not so much about the wrestle and defence like the NRL, so I'm looking forward to a fresh start. 'I've been at Canberra for 10 years now and it's time for me to be taken out of my comfort zone, but I'm 30 years old, I'm an experienced player and I'm more than confident I can handle the change. 'I was already thinking of coming over to Super League next season, but this was too good an opportunity to turn down. 'Canberra have been really good with me, so hopefully I can play a couple more games here over the next few weeks and then get across to Hull KR.'

Michael Weyman and Ryan Bailey's sudden departures left huge void . Dane Tilse is to sign a two-and-a-half-year contract with Hull KR . He joins former Canberra Raiders team-mate Terry Campese at Robins .


Livingston boss Mark Burchill believes heartbroken midfielder Darren Cole wants to play in Sunday's Petrofac Cup final despite the game coming just a week after the tragic death of his cousin in America. The ex-Rangers youth has been mourning the loss of Shaun Cole, 22, who was found dead in a Miami street last weekend and is thought to have been the victim of a hit-and-run driver. A soldier who had served in Afghanistan, he was on holiday in Florida while on leave and had attended a music festival there before being found on a pavement with a head injury which proved fatal. Livingston boss Mark Burchill is hopeful that midfielder Darren Cole will turn out for his side on Sunday . Livingston star Cole, 23, was close to Shaun and paid tribute to the army private on his Twitter account this week. He wrote: 'I know you won't be here for the rest of our lives but I can promise I'll love you for the rest of mine.' Cole was granted time off by the Championship side as they prepare to face Alloa at McDiarmid Park in their first national final in 11 years. But he returned to training on Wednesday and is due to work with the players again after a squad day off on Thursday. Burchill is not putting any pressure on the 23-year-old to play despite the fact he has been a key member of the team since signing a short-term deal in February. He will give Cole as much time as he needs to grieve and accept whatever decision he makes - but admits that the former Murray Park youngster has given the impression he would like to be involved. Burchill said: 'Darren was away from the club initially and we don't really know what to expect but I am speaking with him constantly to plan with him. 'He came back to training on Wednesday but is still in a bit of shock after what has happened, which is completely understandable. 'If I'm honest, I really don't know if he is going to play so we will need to see how things go once we get towards Saturday and Sunday. 'I think Darren would like to play but he has never been through something like this before in his life. 'Him and Shaun were much closer than a lot of cousins are. They grew up together, were around the same age and lived in the same area. They were best mates. 'Darren and his family want to find out exactly what happened and get a wee bit of closure because they still don't know the circumstances. 'We will do everything we can as a club to keep his head straight. It goes without saying we would like him to be involved and I think he would like to be. 'He is a very aggressive central midfielder and is technically one of the best players at the club with two fantastic feet.' Cole (left) was left heartbroken following the death of his cousin, Shaun, from a suspected hit-and-run .

Livingston stake on Alloa Athletic in the final of the Petrofac Cup on Sunday . Midfielder Darren Cole is in mourning after the recent death of his cousin Shaun, who died in Miami from a suspected hit-and-run . Livingston boss Mark Burchill believes that Cole can overcome his heartbreak to play for his side against Alloa .


Alan Smith has rubbished claims that Liverpool fans attacked the ambulance he was travelling to hospital in following the aftermath of his horror injury during Manchester United's FA Cup 1-0 defeat to their fierce rivals nine years ago. Smith suffered a broken leg and a dislocated ankle while attempting to block a John Arne Riise free-kick during the fifth round clash at Anfield in February 2006. At the time of the incident, reports circulated that Liverpool fans tried to disrupt Smith's journey to hospital by throwing bottles, beer glasses and stones at the ambulance as well as rocking the vehicle. WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT . Alan Smith has denied claims that Liverpool fans attacked the ambulance he was travelling to hospital in during Manchester United's FA Cup fifth round exit nine years ago . The horror incident occurred after Smith (second right) blocked John Arne Riise's free-kick . Smith suffered a broken leg and a dislocated ankle as a result of the incident at Anfield . But Smith, who made his comeback for United seven months later, insists that was not the case. 'It didn't happen – fans were still in the ground,' he told FourFourTwo exclusively in the May edition of their magazine. 'I went back to Liverpool a few years later with Newcastle and had a great reception. 'I had loads of mail from fans after the injury, including a lot from Liverpool. And Liverpool's medical staff were great. They were worried that because there was no blood flowing that I could have had a club foot. 'It wasn't Riise's fault and he came to see me. The dislocated ankle was worse than the leg break because I snapped ligaments and there were complications. 'I knew I was never going to be the same player. I've appreciated every game I've played since that injury, I know how close I was to being finished.' Smith was carried off on a stretcher before he was taken to hospital via an ambulance .

Liverpool beat Manchester United 1-0 in the FA Cup fifth round in 2006 . Alan Smith suffered a broken leg and a dislocated ankle during the game . Reports claimed Liverpool fans attacked the ambulance with Smith in .


Ronny Deila  has confirmed Hearts captain Danny Wilson features on a list of Celtic’s summer transfer targets. As Sportsmail revealed on Tuesday, the Scottish champions are considering a £400,000 offer for the former Rangers and Liverpool defender. Wilson has 12 months left on his current contract, with Hearts owner Ann Budge insisting the newly-promoted Edinburgh club have no need to sell. Hearts captain Danny Wilson (right) is a summer transfer target for Celtic and could be signed for £400,000 . The defender is out of contract at the end of the season but Hearts are in no rush to sell . With Celtic battling to keep hold of current pairing Virgil van Dijk and Jason Denayer, however, manager Deila admits Wilson is among the potential central-defensive reinforcements being considered. ‘He (Wilson) is one of many names we are looking at,’ the Norwegian conceded. ‘I know all about him, of course. He is a good player but there is nothing in that right now. We are looking for central defenders. That is an important target because of Jason [Denayer] and also because of the situation with Virgil. Hopefully we will keep him.’ Van Dijk has attracted the attention of Sunderland and Southampton while on-loan Denayer will return to parent club Manchester City after making his full international debut for Belgium this week. Desperate to hold on to both ahead of Champions League qualifiers which could potentially be worth £16million to the club, Deila added: ‘First of all, Virgil is our player. He will stay. That’s what we want, to have him through the Champions League. ‘He is so important to us. He still has things to work on to become even better. His chance will come in the future - but he is one of the players we really want to keep. Celtic will face a challenge to keep hold of the services of highly-rated Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk . John Denayer is expected to return to Manchester City after an impressive loan spell in Scotland . ‘Virgil is the leader in the defence, so he is vital for us. Any money we could get for Virgil can’t compare with the money we would get from the Champions League. ‘Jason is a young player, a very good player as well. It is easy to get one player in for him, but not so much if we need two. That’s a totally different thing. I was delighted for Jason he got 30 minutes for Belgium. Again it shows to other players we are doing something right here, that he has come from not playing an important match, ever, to now playing in the first team for Belgium. That’s credit to him and for us as well.’ Repeating the view that Denayer should stay at Celtic to play European football rather than risk a return to the Manchester City reserves, Deila insisted: ‘I think it’s important for him to play, that’s why we sent Liam Henderson to Rosenborg because he needs playing time. I don’t know if he will play or not, I think he will, but it’s a very good experience for him, playing at a big club, with pressure. And the level is hopefully a little bit lower than here and he will get that experience. ‘It’s the same for Jason. City is so hard to play for, if he gets in there he is a world-class player. He is still only 20 so I think he should get more experience here. As it is now, he is going to go back to Manchester City for pre-season.’ PSV winger Zakaria Bakkali is another target for the SPL champions and is available on a free transfer . Budge, meanwhile, insisted that Hearts’ good financial health means there would be no need for them to let Wilson go on the cheap. ‘We have been successful and there will be interest in our players and management team,’ she admitted. ‘But am I confident we can hang on to the majority of the people we currently have. ‘We are in a good bargaining position. We have a fantastic base on which to build and I hope we can hold as much of that as we can. ‘That said, it is a commercial world out there and if someone comes long and offers someone something hugely substantial, then who knows?’ As well as Wilson, Deila admitted Celtic are also trying to tie up players on pre-contract agreements. PSV Eindhoven’s Belgian winger Zakaria Bakkali is one Bosman target, Deila saying: ‘We have three players we are thinking of on Bosman but we haven’t agreed anything with anyone.’

Celtic are considering a £400,000 move for Hearts captain Danny Wilson . Hoops could struggle to keep hold of Virgil van Dijk while loanee John Denayer is expected to return to Manchester City . Scottish Championship winners claim they have no need to sell .


Ronny Deila insists Celtic will not risk their Champions League aspirations by embarking on another gruelling pre-season travel schedule. The Norwegian blamed last summer’s money-spinning programme of games in the United States, Austria, Germany for a damaging 4-1 qualifying defeat to Legia Warsaw. Celtic command lucrative fees for pre-season commitments and have also taken on trips to Australia and the Far East in recent seasons. Ronny Deila and Nir Bitton walk off the pitch after losing to Legia Warsaw in Champions League qualifying . A return to America for this July has not yet been ruled out. With £16million on offer just for returning to the Champions League group stages, however, Deila says he has the blessing of chief executive Peter Lawwell to scale down this summer’s commitments. ‘It is not going to be the same,’ he said. ‘We are going to play less games, travel less and really prepare for those games. ‘I want to do it differently than we did it last year. I think we did way too much travelling and way too much games.’ Faced with over-turning the 4-1 first leg defeat in Warsaw last summer, Deila remained with his first team in Glasgow while a Celtic development squad suffered a 6-1 thrashing to Spurs in an exhibition game at Helsinki’s Olympic Stadium. ‘It is not positive to play games with half a team and lose 5-1 and 6-1,’ said the Celtic boss. ‘It is not positive for the confidence and the atmosphere in the club. We don’t like to lose. When we play we want to prepare as well as possible and that is going to be the main issue now in pre-season.’ A Celtic development squad were thrashed by Tottenham in a pre-season friendly last season . The SPFL champions recently secured a new kit deal with American manufacturers New Balance, raising the chances of a return to the States. Despite the financial attractions of a packed pre-season programme, however, Deila says he has backing from Lawwell to do most of the preparation in Scotland. ‘He is with me. We are on the same lines so that hasn’t been a problem. We are talking about the United States but then everything has to be perfect there. ‘We haven’t decided 100 per cent but I think we are going to stay here for the first 14 days and have games around here. We will have a couple of games that we go away to play, maybe two or three. So less travelling, more calm. Players will have been abroad on vacation and will come back and prepare the right way and play games here.’ Acknowledging at the same time that overseas trips generate cash for the club, Deila responded: ‘Yes, but there is more money in the Champions League.’ Deila says Celtic won't be travelling as much in pre-season as they look to qualify for the group stages .

Celtic travelled to the United States, Austria and Germany last pre-season . The Scottish club were then beaten in the Champions League by Legia .


Franck Ribery has dismissed reports linking Wolfsburg forward Kevin de Bruyne with Bayern Munich as a potential replacement for the former France international or his team-mate Arjen Robben. De Bruyne, who spent his two years at Chelsea largely on loan before joining the second-placed Bundesliga club, has scored nine goals this season and is topping the league's assist charts with 16 – seven more than the next best. But Ribery says despite his impressive form the 23-year-old Belgian is the wrong style of player to come in under Pep Guardiola because he has different assets to himself and the Holland winger. Kevin de Bruyne is linked with Bayern Munich as a potential replacement for the club's veteran forwards . The Wolfsburg playmaker, here in action for Belgium against Israel, has 16 assists and nine goals this season . Bayern's Franck Ribery says despite De Bruyne's impressive form he is the wrong type of player for Munich . 'He is not a player who takes the ball and dribbles forward and likes to have the opponents in front of him,' Ribery told German publication Sport Bild. 'De Bruyne is great, when he fits the counterattack. At Bayern, however, you usually only have three or four metres in front of you, not a lot of room. But he is a good player and he is still young, so he can still learn.' Ribery and Robben's contracts run out in 2017 and both have endured injuries worries of late prompting reports that an injection of youth such as 23-year-old De Bruyne could be good for the club. Ribery (left) says De Bruyne's counter-attacking skills don't mesh with the style of Pep Guardiola (right) Ribery has struggled with injuries of late and has been linked with moves away from the Bundesliga leaders . Should Bayern be in the market for a young attacker, however, Ribery knows precisely who he'd want to see at Allianz Arena – De Bruyne's Belgian team-mate Eden Hazard. 'He attacks all of the time. He loves to run at his opponent,' he said. 'But he plays at Chelsea - this could be very expensive for Bayern.' If Bayern do go for De Bruyne, against their outspoken veteran's advice, they'll have competition from Manchester City, who have met with his representatives, along with Paris Saint-Germain. Wolfsburg are said to be keen to hang onto him for at least one more campaign that should include next season's Champions League. Chelsea's Eden Hazard would be an ideal fit with Guardiola and the Allianz Arena, says Ribery, but expensive .

Chelsea flop Kevin de Bruyne has been linked with Bayern Munch . The Belgian is touted has a possible replacement for Franck Ribery . Ribery said De Bruyne's is 'great' but the wrong style of player . He said Chelsea star Eden Hazard's attributes would suit Bayern .


What's more exciting than meeting your idol? Meeting your idol in a Starbucks, while wearing a shirt with their name on it, and having your picture uploaded to their Instagram account. One little boy was lucky enough to meet Justin Verlander, pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, under those same, once-in-a-lifetime, circumstances. Verlander snapped a selfie in front a little boy wearing a dark blue shirt with Verlander's name and jersey number, 35, on the back. Scroll down for video . Selfie: Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander (right) snapped this selfie in front a little boy wearing a dark blue shirt with Verlander's name and jersey number, 35, on the back . Instagram: The pitcher uploaded the selfie to his more than 150,000 Instagram followers writing: 'Love having my fans support!! This little guy was pretty surprised when he turned around' The pitcher uploaded the selfie to his more than 150,000 Instagram followers writing: 'Love having my fans support!! This little guy was pretty surprised when he turned around.' Perhaps 'pretty surprised' is an understatement when a little boy meets his idol, but we'll take Verlander's word for it. This isn't the first time a celebrity has snapped a selfie with an unsuspecting fan. In January, former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay tweeted a photo to his more than 40,000 Twitter followers of himself in front of a fan who wore a red shirt with the former player's name and jersey number on the back. This guy wasn't so lucky. Apparently, Halladay didn't meet the fan, he tweeted: 'Oopps you missed me! Walked right by me! Hope he gets to see his pic with me on Twitter, he doesn't know we took this.' Fan: In January, former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay (right) tweeted a photo of himself in front of a fan (left) who wore a red shirt with the former player's name and jersey number on the back . 'Full House' star John Stamos, who played Uncle Jessie, stopped by his TV home in San Francisco last month and went unnoticed by fans checking out the famous house. The 51-year-old actor took a photo of himself in front of the home as the unsuspecting fans marveled at the front of the San Francisco house featured in the opening sequence of the family sitcom. Stamos uploaded the photo to Instagram with the caption: 'Boy, these youngsters have 0.0 idea what they're missing. #Fullhousehouse. #TURNAROUND.' It is unknown if the 'youngsters' ever did, in fact, #TURNAROUND or if they missed their 'old familiar friend.' #TURNAROUND: Last month, 'Full House' star John Stamos (left), who played Uncle Jessie, stopped by his TV home in San Francisco last month and went unnoticed by fans checking out the famous house .

Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander snapped a selfie in front of an unsuspecting little boy wearing the player's shirt in line at a Starbucks . Verlander uploaded the photo to Instagram saying the fan was 'pretty surprised' when he turned around . The photo has gotten more than 16,000 'likes' and 600 comments .


Eden Hazard has admitted an intense campaign with Chelsea may have left him too tired to perform at the best of his ability after he was substituted just 62 minutes into Belgium's win over Israel on Tuesday. Hazard has played 48 games this season for club and country, missing just five matches for Chelsea and being an ever-present in their Barclays Premier League title charge. But as Belgium struggled to a hard-fought 1-0 win over Israel in European Championship qualifying group B, Hazard was withdrawn by manager Marc Wilmots with 28 minutes to go having found it difficult to get the better of his marker Orel Dgani. Eden Hazard has admitted an intense campaign with Chelsea may have left him too tired to perform at his best . Hazard was substituted with 28 minutes In Belgium's 1-0 win over Israel in Jerusalem on Tuesday night . The 24-year-old playmaker has played all but five of Chelsea's games this season, mainly avoiding injury . The 24-year-old playmaker was clearly unhappy to have been substituted and looked to shoot Wilmots a disapproving look as he left the field to be replaced by Nacer Chadli before questioning the manager on his decision after the game. ‘I was a little bit surprised to be substituted,' Hazard said. 'Also, I was a little bit unhappy and I think you could see that I was unhappy. ‘I asked the coach for a reason and he told me that I was tired. Maybe I was a little bit tired. I’ve played a lot of games this season.’ In his post-match comments, Wilmots added: ‘Hazard is not hurt, but I had the impression that he was tired. In these kind of games, you have to react immediately because we did not have time.' Belgium manager Marc Wilmots said he felt that Hazard looked tired, something the player questioned him on . Hazard scored early on in Chelsea's last game, a 3-2 win over Hull City, but the team were pegged back . Hazard is unlikely to get an extended rest any time soon as he returns to Premier League action on Saturday . Belgium captain Vincent Kompany was sent off for a second yellow card within two minutes of Hazard's withdrawal, leaving Belgium clinging on to their slender lead, and Wilmots admitted he may not have substituted his star man had he known his side would be down to 10 men. Despite his admission, Hazard is unlikely to get an extended rest any time soon as he returns to Premier League action with the visit of Stoke City to Stamford Bridge on Saturday. And with a tough run-in and another international break still to come, the Belgian forward could rack up as many as 59 appearances by the time the season finally ends in mid-June. Belgium's win in Jerusalem saw them return to the top of their qualifying group, ahead of Wales on goal difference. They travel to face them in Cardiff in their next competitive game on June 12. Marouane Fellaini (left) celebrates his goal with Vincent Kompany, Axel Witsel and Christian Benteke (L-R) But Kompany was later sent off and Wilmots admitted he may not have substituted Hazard two minutes later .

Eden Hazard was substituted 62 minutes into Belgium's win in Israel . Manager Marc Wilmots said he believed Hazard looked to be tiring . Chelsea playmaker questioned the decision but admitted he could be tired . READ: Chelsea star Hazard rated Europe's best midfielder . CLICK HERE for the latest Chelsea news .


Would-be drug smugglers were roasted when police discovered marijuana hidden within a leg of lamb. The slab of meat and its unusual herb accompaniment was found by police in the Northern Territory, after something smelled suspicious to the Northern Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk. Officers then decided to x-ray the lamb, which revealed the 20g bag of marijuana. Scroll down for video . Police discovered 20 grams of marijuana hidden within a leg of lamb in the Northern Territory . It is believed the lamb had been shipped to a company at Darwin Airport, and would then be sent on to the Tiwi Islands 100kms to the north. The stash would have been worth $2000 if it had been sold, which is about four times the normal price of the drug in suburban Australia. 'In an Indigenous community you're looking at $100 for 1 gram,' Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Malogorski told the ABC. In a statement released on Thursday, police said the sender would be 'feeling a little sheepish' after their attempt to smuggle the marijuana was sniffed out. It is believed the lamb had been shipped to a company at Darwin Airport, and would then be sent on to the Tiwi Islands 100kms to the north . Northern Territory Police said the stash would have been worth $2000 if it had been sold . 'Officers became suspicious while checking a consignment of meat and a quick x-ray revealed seasoning of a completely illegal nature.' 'The lamb was subjected to an autopsy where 20 grams of cannabis was removed. In a statement released on Thursday, police said the sender would be 'feeling a little sheepish' after their attempt to smuggle the marijuana was sniffed out . 'Investigations into this attempted smuggling are ongoing and police will continue to target the possession and distribution of drugs and alcohol into remote communities. Offenders are warned that they face serious charges when they are caught.'

Police found 20 grams of marijuana buried within a leg of lamb . Northern Territory Police made find after officers smelled something suspicious . The stash is believed to be worth $2000 - $100 per gram - because it was to be sold in remote communities in the Australian Outback . Police said they will continue to crack down on sale of illegal drugs .


Troubled footballer Clarke Carlisle has revealed he has split from his wife as he continues to battle with depression following his failed suicide attempt. The former Premier League defender said he had 'moved out of the marital home' in Yorkshire that he shared with his wife of 14 years, Gemma. Mr Carlisle tried to kill himself in December, two days after he was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving. Scroll down for video . Split: Clarke Carlisle says he has 'moved out of the marital home' in Yorkshire that he shared with his wife of 14 years, Gemma. The pair are pictured together in 2013 . The 35-year-old father-of-three stepped in front of a 12-ton truck on the A64 near York in December, suffering cuts, bruises, internal bleeding, a broken rib and a shattered left knee. The incident has left the ex-Burnley defender with scars all over his body. On television this week Mr Carlisle, who has publicly struggled with depression, revealed the scars he still bears from his suicide attempt are a 'constant reminder' of his good fortune in surviving. Now Mr Carlisle, who played 131 times for the Clarets between 2007 and 2012, said the accident had led to him moving out of the house he shared with wife Gemma. The sportsman, dubbed 'Britain's brainiest footballer' after he appeared on Countdown in 2002, told TalkSport Radio on a special Monday night show: 'At this point, Gemma and I have separated. 'I have moved out of the marital home because I have to focus on my well-being and equally as much Gemma has to do the same. 'She has to deal with her experiences and the effect that has had on her.' Mr Carlisle appeared on Good Morning Britain this week and revealed the scars he still bears from his suicide attempt are a 'constant reminder' of his good fortune in surviving . Asked about how his wife Gemma has taken it, he added: 'Every day has been incredibly tough and different. 'When you have been with someone for 14 years but masking things and thoughts from her, it was because I was a people-pleaser. 'I've desperately wanted to say what I know will make her happy and do the things that I think she wants me to do - instead of being myself.' Earlier this week Mr Carlisle apologised to the driver of the lorry which he jumped in front of in an attempt to kill himself. The former footballer said that he prays for the driver, Darren Pease, every day - but added that he has been unable to apologise in person because the haulier refuses to meet him. Star: Mr Carlisle pictured playing for Burnley against Aston Villa in 2010, at the peak of his footballing career . Appearing on ITV's Good Morning Britain on Tuesday, Mr Carlisle said he was 'so sorry' for putting Mr Pease through the ordeal of being involved in a near-fatal crash. Speaking earlier this month, Mr Pease, 53, said that he might never be able to drive a lorry again after hitting Mr Carlisle. Mr Carlisle played for nine different clubs in his 16-year career, including five years at Burnley, and served as chairman of the Professional Footballers' Association. Last week, he pleaded guilty to failing to provide a sample when he was stopped by police in December as his car was swerving around the road. He will be sentenced in May. For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or click here for details.

Clarke Carlisle reveals he has 'moved out of the marital home' in Yorkshire . Father-of-three says both hand his wife have to focus on their 'well-being' The former Premier League defender, 35, tried to kill himself in December .


Arsenal legend Paul Merson has been forced into an embarrassing climbdown and admitted he was wrong to criticise the England call up for Andros Townsend. The Tottenham winger came off the bench to score the equaliser with a stunning strike in Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Italy in Turin. It was the perfect riposte after Merson said in his Sky Sports column: 'If Andros Townsend can get in (the England squad) then it opens it up for anybody.' Andros Townsend scores England's equaliser in their 1-1 friendly draw with Italy in Turin on Tuesday night . Townsend celebrates his strike with Tottenham Hotspur team-mates Ryan Mason (left) and Kyle Walker . In his column for skysports.com, Merson wrote: 'If Andros Townsend can get in then it opens it up for anybody. We are not picking players who are playing well for their clubs – he got taken off after 30 minutes the other week against United. 'The England manager is there watching the game and he still gets picked. Townsend and Kyle Walker were the worst two players on the pitch. 'How can you tell me that a manager goes and watches Man United against Tottenham, the winger gets taken off after 30 minutes, the winger from the other team absolutely rinses the full-back for England and Ashley Young doesn't get in the squad?' Townsend later tweeted to his 285,000 followers: 'Not bad for a player that should be 'nowhere near the squad' ay @PaulMerse?' And Merson insisted on Wednesday he was pleased to be proven wrong by the 23-year-old. Merson told Sky Sports: 'It's just a matter of opinion, and my opinion was that he got pulled off after half an hour at Manchester United in front of Roy Hodgson, so he shouldn't have been in the squad. 'But fair play to him, I only give my opinion, and sometimes I'm wrong, other times I'm right. 'When I'm wrong, I hold my hands up. I don't have a problem with doing that - I'll always be the first to admit when I'm wrong. 'It's not as though I was watching hoping he wouldn't score for England, I'm genuinely pleased for him and fair play to him – it was a great goal. 'But I don't feel as though I need to defend myself – it's my job to give my opinion – and I'm just glad people actually take notice of what I'm saying!' Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson (centre) criticised Townsend's call-up to the England squad last week . Harry Kane congratulates his Tottenham team-mate Townsend after the final whistle in Turin . Roy Hodgson was also impressed with Townsend after the Tottenham winger's fine goal after the break .

Paul Merson had questioned England selection of Andros Townsend . Tottenham winger scored equaliser in Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Italy . Merson admitted Townsend had proved him wrong with 'great goal'


It seems an accepted trend that Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas struggles during the second half of the season and the Spanish midfielder was one of the worst players on the pitch again in his country's 2-0 defeat by Holland on Tuesday. The 27-year-old spoke of his happiness in south west London earlier this week but his form has significantly dipped from that of the player who, around Christmas, looked a dead-cert to break the Barclays Premier League record for assists. On Tuesday - his first international appearance since October - he was given just four out of 10 by one Spanish newspaper and while his season is likely to end in success with the Premier League title following a Capital One Cup win, questions remain about Fabregas' durability. Cesc Fabregas (right) captained Spain on Tuesday but his poor form continued as they lost 2-0 in Holland . The Chelsea midfielder struggled to make an impact in midfield as the European champions fell to defeat . After a brilliant start to the season at Stamford Bridge, the Spaniard's form has dropped off somewhat of late . 'I'm playing almost every minute of every match (with Chelsea) and that's what makes me happy,' he said this week. But a long, intense campaign on his return to England is taking its toll on the Spaniard. Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho will have been concerned to see his player toiling in midfield for the full 90 minutes at the Amsterdam ArenA, adding to the fatigue that seems to have seen his role as a key man in the Blues' title charge decline of late. Fabregas captained the European champions in the Dutch capital but struggled to make any real impact against Manchester United's Daley Blind or goalscorer Davy Klaassen. Jose Mourinho will be demanding more from his deep-lying playmaker in the Premier League run-in . Diego Costa and Fabregas enjoyed a great start together and linked up again in Chelsea's 3-2 win at Hull City . Fabregas was brilliant for Chelsea in their big win away at Swansea City in January but has struggled since . After his £30million transfer to Chelsea last summer, Fabregas' former club Barcelona released a statement that pointed at his traditional post-Christmas slump. 'There has been a downward trend in his stats every season at the club,' it read. 'Despite glowing starts to each campaign, Cesc's contributions to the cause gradually decreased as each season drew to a close. 'From being someone who joined in with the attack, supplying and scoring goals, the magic tended to fade later on in each season.' And it seems to have rung true on the stats front. Having picked up 15 Premier League assists by mid-January, he has just one in five games he has played since, and just four in 15 appearances for club and country in 2015. Thierry Henry's record of 20 had looked almost certain to fall but given his current form, Fabregas is now on track to fall just short. However, with nine games to play Chelsea are still to face six opponents who their key man in midfield has laid on goals against. Fabregas' former team-mate Thierry Henry (right) holds the record for assists in a Premier League season . Henry managed 20 assists in the 2002-03 season and Fabregas looked set to beat that haul before his slump . When he left Barcelona, the  club commented on Fabregas' unwanted reputation for a late-season slump . Their opponents on Saturday, Stoke City, as well as Queens Park Rangers, Manchester United, Arsenal, Leicester City and West Bromwich Albion have all been opened up by Fabregas' passing ability this season, while he scored in Chelsea's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace in October. The personal accolade will be important to the midfielder, but more key is the boost it could give to his club. Chelsea could need as many as six wins from their remaining nine games, and if Fabregas finds form again the Premier League title could be wrapped up within weeks. Mourinho will hope his assist for Diego Costa in Chelsea's last game against Hull City is a sign of a late-season resurgence to prove any doubters wrong. Fabregas laid on an assist for Costa in Chelsea's 3-2 win over Hull City, but that was his first in five games . Mourinho is looking to guide his team over the line in the Premier League title race, with Fabregas a key cog .

Cesc Fabregas' poor form continued for Spain against Holland on Tuesday . Chelsea midfielder captained his country but they lost 2-0 in Amsterdam . If his form goes on he will not match Premier League assists record . Thierry Henry's mark of 20 in 2002-03 is four more than Fabregas' total . A resurgence in his form could help his club wrap up the Premier League . Fabregas: I am going through a great moment at Chelsea . CLICK HERE for all the latest Chelsea news .


Six people have been arrested in Dover on suspicion of Syria-related terrorism offences, West Midlands Police said. Five men and one woman were detained at approximately 8am this morning in the departure zone of the south coast port, according to the force's Twitter feed. Four of the men, all in their 20s, are from Birmingham, West Midlands, while a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman of no fixed abode were also held. Six people were arrested at Dover this morning on suspicion of Syria-related terrorism offences, according to West Midlands Police . They are currently being questioned at a police station in the West Midlands area. Searches are taking place at a number of addresses in Birmingham and police say the arrests are part of an on-going investigation. Officers added that the suspects, who are not a family group and were not accompanied by children, did not pose any immediate risk to public safety. It comes a day after it was revealed that one of the nine Britons detained in Turkey for allegedly trying to cross the border into Syria is the son of Rochdale Labour councillor, Shakil Ahmed. Politics student Waheed Ahmed, 21, and his aunt, cousins and four children were caught by security forces in Hatay province, southern Turkey. Police are yet to confirm whether the two cases are linked. Four of the men are from Birmingham, West Midlands, and in their 20s, while a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman of no fixed abode were also arrested . Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Five men and one woman were arrested at 8am in the port's departure zone . The group, all in their 20s, are currently being questioned at police station . Searches taking place at a number of addresses in Birmingham, West Mids . Suspects are not a family group and were not accompanied by children .


Get ready to dig deep - the impulse to buy a treat peaks today at 12.52pm. A study claims that Britons spend an average of £62 a week on rewarding themselves, with retail therapy reaching a high at lunchtime today. Treats can range from as little as a bar of chocolate or a glass of wine to designer clothes and shoes, according to research by website VoucherCodes.co.uk. A study reveals that Britons spend an average of £62 a week on rewarding themselves, with retail therapy reaching a high at lunchtime today. Treats can range from a bar of chocolate to a glass of wine . And surprisingly, men spend a third more a month than women on treating themselves. They are also more likely to lie about their expenditure and hide items they have purchased from their partners in a desperate quest to keep their shopping habits under wraps, a different survey last year found. The shoppers of Swansea are the most frivolous, with 44 per cent splurging as soon as they are paid, followed by those in Aberdeen (42 per cent) and Belfast (39 per cent). The most cautious spenders live in Wolverhampton, where only 19 per cent choose to treat themselves on pay day. Designer items (stock image above) are also popular buys and men spend a third more a month than women on treating themselves, the research claims . Other research claimed the average Brit spends £153 within 24 hours of payday - while 10 per cent splurge more than £500. Some workers said they spend so much in the 24 hours after payday because they had arranged their regular payments and direct debits to leave their accounts around that time. While others said it was because they felt like they deserved the treat.

Britons spend an average of £62 a week on treats, a new study claims . Rewards range from bar of chocolate to glass of wine to pair of shoes .


Charlie Austin has revealed how his good mate Joey Barton ignored him on his first day at Queens Park Rangers before realising his mistake - with the duo then becoming good friends. The striker has had a Premier League debut season to remember and is being touted as a possible England debutant in the future after scoring 15 goals in the competition. His close friendship with club captain Barton is well publicised but they're first encounter is one Austin is unlikely to forget. Charlie Austin (left) and Joey Barton have become good friends despite their very early setback . Speaking to The Guardian he said: 'My first day, I came to the training ground within 45 minutes of signing and I was waiting for the security barrier to lift when he came out. I thought: 'That's Joey Barton.' 'He looked at me, just got in his car and drove off. 'I thought: 'Brilliant, here we go!' To be fair to him, he came in the next day, shook my hand and said it wasn't until he got home that he knew I had signed. The following day he invited me and Bianca, my wife-to-be, out to dinner and from then until now we've been close mates.' QPR take on West Brom, on Saturday before travelling to fellow strugglers Aston Villa on Tuesday, and Austin knows his side can't afford to lose. The 25-year-old says QPR can't afford to lose their next two games and must pick up at least four points . Club captain Barton (centre) has been relegated with the club before and will want to avoid the drop . He said: 'You look at those two games and you think we need to get four to six points.' Austin's first season has been somewhat spectacular and he's currently fourth in the highest goalscoring charts behind Harry Kane, Diego Costa and Sergio Aguero and the striker his humbled to be in the same mix as them. 'It's quite surreal because I couldn't have dreamed to be in the mix with people like that.,' he says. Austin (centre) scores against Aston Villa and he'll look to do the same when they play on Tuesday .

Charlie Austin revealed that Joey Barton ignored him on his first day . The pair are good friends now following the hilarious incident . The 25-year-old says QPR can't afford to lose in their double header . Austin is delighted and humbled to be fourth in the goalscoring charts . CLICK HERE for all the latest Queens Park Rangers news .


This dog certainly is his master's best friend after saving him from a cold and muddy grave. The black pooch was filmed in action as he took a rescue rope out to his owner at the Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir in Springfield, Ohio, on Saturday afternoon. Footage shows the unidentified man then being hauled to shore by firefighters after spending almost two hours in waters hovering around zero degrees Celsius. He apparently got stuck waist-deep in mud while recovering some duck hunting gear. Luckily, he had a cell phone on hand to call 911. However, first responders were unable to get a boat out to him because the river was too shallow. They also didn't want to send anyone into the pond in fear that they would get stuck too. That's when they had the idea to send the dog in with a rescue rope. Go fetch: This dog certainly is his master's best friend after saving him from a cold and muddy grave . The black pooch was filmed in action as he took a rescue rope out to his owner at the Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir in Springfield, Ohio, on Saturday afternoon . All hands on deck: Footage shows the unidentified man then being hauled to shore by firefighters after spending almost two hours in waters hovering around zero degrees Celsius . Wrong move: He apparently got stuck waist-deep in mud while recovering some duck hunting gear . According to the Springfield News-Sun, the man remained in good spirits throughout his recovery and didn't suffer any injuries. Assistant Fire Chief Rick Hughes said that if the ordeal had gone on much longer it could have proved fatal. 'It’s a good thing he had his cellphone considering he was in the mud and water to about his chest and it was about 33 degrees [Fahrenheit],' he added.

The black pooch was filmed in action as he took a rescue rope out to his owner at the Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir in Ohio on Saturday . Footage shows the unidentified man then being hauled to shore by firefighters after spending almost two hours in cold waters .


Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri goes into this weekend's Serie A games admitting he does not expect to be fully embraced by the team's fans until he steers the club to a title. Having joined the Turin outfit last summer, several months after being sacked by AC Milan, Allegri has hardly put a foot wrong, coaching Juve to a commanding lead in the race for the Scudetto. Allegri, who replaced Antonio Conte last summer, and Juve will go after another three points on Saturday when they host Empoli. Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri instructs his side from the touchline, who are top of Serie A . 'When I arrived, I feared that I would not be able to win the hearts of the fans because I had promised to achieve that with results,' Allegri told his club's official website. 'I have forgiven the initial scepticism because it was right to do that. What happened last July to Juventus was a shock (Conte's resignation). 'We have worked and are having a good season that we need to conclude positively, seeing as we have not won anything yet.' Juve are 14 points clear of Roma at the top of the standings with 10 games remaining. If they win the league, it will be a fourth straight Scudetto for the club. Carlos Tevez (centre) scored twice as Juventus cruised past Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League . Allegri has also guided the Bianconeri into the Champions League quarter-finals and the Coppa Italia semi-finals. Roma, who are just one point clear of Lazio, host fellow Champions League hopefuls Napoli on Saturday. Lazio carry a six-match winning run in Serie A with them to Sardinia to face Cagliari. The Biancoceleste hold the last Champions League qualifying spot and are four points clear of nearest rivals Sampdoria. Samp make the trip to Florence to take on Fiorentina also in fine fettle after winning their last four league games. France's Paul Pogba has been an integral part of the Juventus side 14 points clear at the top of  Serie A . Fiorentina are two places and two points behind Saturday's opponents and are unbeaten at home in Serie A since November 9. Ninth-place Genoa, with just two points collected since since February 15, face Udinese at the Luigi Ferraris stadium. AC Milan, who beat Cagliari 3-1 before the international break, square off against Palermo at La Favorita. Inter Milan lock horns with bottom-side Parma at the San Siro with the Nerazzurri desperate to snap a six-match winless run in all competitions. Rafael Benitez's Napoli side need to beat Roma to realistically qualify for the Champions League . Atalanta will try to give Edy Reja his first victory when they host Torino. The Bergamo club has not won since February 1. Cesena, with just one triumph away from home all season, travel to Verona to face Hellas. Domenico Di Carlo's Cesena have won one of their last seven league games and are five points adrift of safety. Chievo have lost just one of their last seven games to stave off the threat of relegation. They are in 15th place and 11 points clear of the drop zone heading into their game at Sassuolo.

The Turin club are 14 points clear of Roma at the top of Serie A . Juventus are aiming for a fourth straight Scudetto title . The Bianconeri are on for a potential treble, playing in the Champions League quarter-finals and the Coppa Italia semi-finals .


For residents of Celoron, N.Y., the statue of hometown icon Lucile Ball is no laughing matter and hasn't been for the past six years. In 2009 the town unveiled a statue of Ball with a face so unlike the beloved comedian that locals have reacted with shock and horror. The depiction is so unflattering a Facebook page called 'We Love Lucy! Get Rid of this Statue' has attracted more than 600 likes. Scroll down for video . For residents of Celoron, N.Y., say a statue of hometown icon Lucile Ball is 'monstrous' The statue is based on a famous moment from Ball's show 'I Love Lucy,' in which she pitches an intoxicating health tonic while drunk . Yahoo reports that the anonymous man behind the page says he's a 'big fan of Lucy's.' 'Lucille Ball was not only an amazing comedienne, but she was a stunning beauty. Her sense of humor only made her more beautiful,” he told the site. 'This statue looks nothing like the beautiful Lucy we all know. If for no other reason than that... the statue should go.' He added: 'I don’t think this can be repaired. Take a look at the beautiful statues Nick at Nite created for ‘Bewitched’ and ‘The Honeymooners’ and Bob Newhart… it needs to be something more like those.' Artist Dave Poulin has declined comment. It would cost an estimated $8,000 to $10,000 for Poulin to recast the statue, according to the Celoron Mayor Scott Schrecengost. While the organizer said he is a fan of Poulin's work, this time he failed to do his subject justice. Artist Dave Poulin has declined to comment on the controversy surrounding his work . 'I think it looks like a monster. That is just my opinion,' he told Yahoo. 'When you see it at night, it is frightening.' The statue depicts Ball during one of her most loved moments on the pioneering show 'I Love Lucy,' her intoxicated pitch for the Vitameatavegamin health tonic. The statue was the latest way the town has tried to honor its most famous resident, with the Jameston area already home to a Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum & Center for Comedy.

The depiction is so unflattering a Facebook page called 'We Love Lucy! Get Rid of this Statue' has attracted more than 600 likes . It would cost an estimated $8,000 to $10,000 for the statue to be recast . Artist Dave Poulin has refused to comment on the controversy .


South Sydney hooker Issac Luke is at the centre of a homophobic accusation after posting an offensive comment on social media in response to attacks from Canterbury Bulldogs fans. The 27-year-old had made a heartfelt appeal on his official Instagram account on Saturday in a bid to track down the young Rabbitohs fan who was allegedly attacked at ANZ Stadium in Sydney. The rugby league player had intended to donate a jersey ahead of the Easter long weekend as a gesture to make up for the incident that left the boy hospitalised after the controversial clash. But the good Samaritan is now under investigation by the NRL integrity unit over an alleged homophobic slur after Luke hit back to the taunts, saying: 'get off my page you lil poofters'. South Sydney star Issac Luke will be investigated by the NRL after posting a homophobic slur on Instagram . The 27-year-old posted an offensive remark in response to to attacks from  Bulldogs fans on Instagram . 'This is about a kid your fans knocked out. Well now two kids Yous [sic] dropped. We train at Redfern come down and see if you fellas are still carrying on #rulesarerules even though it was a hard penalty to take,' the post continued. 'I bet yous [sic] would've done the same had we done it to one of your players. Or we would've have even had u gooses commenting had it happened earlier on in the game. Now get off my page.' The comment prompted an immediate backlash on social media with some labelling the response 'grubby' and 'disappointing'. One Twitter user questioned: 'I'm assuming Issac Luke is one of those players the kids should be looking up to right?' Another person wrote: 'You are grubby homophobic thug and I hope you get rubbed out of our game.' The South Sydney hooker had intended to donate a jersey to the injured young fan who was allegedly attacked . Luke was forced to leave the field after sustaining a head knock during the round five NRL match between the Canterbury Bulldogs and the South Sydney Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium on Friday night . However, many others have defended Luke's comment, with one person saying: 'Gutless cowards trying to get you cause your [sic] a big star I know the homophobic slur wasn't intentional you've got my support.' And another posted: 'Lovely gesture. What we are proud of our players and will always cheer loud and proud for you all.' But Luke's comment was quickly removed and he has since apologised for his offensive remark. 'I just want to apologise for what I said to fans,' he posted. 'I was very worried and my emotion got the better of me I didn't meant to offend anyone. Just tip me up if I'm being sill peeps [sic].' The comment prompted an immediate backlash on social media with some labelling the response 'grubby' Along with his apology, Luke confirmed that he has managed to find two young people who were involved in the alleged attack. The NRL has issued a statement to Fairfax Media stating 'Rugby League is a game for everyone regardless of race, colour, religion, ability or sexuality'. 'As an inclusive game, we do not tolerate discrimination in any form. This is an important matter, and it is certainly one which we will take up with Souths.' Luke's post comes after Waratahs forward Jacques Potgieter was fined $10,000 by the ARU for making an on-field homophobic slur. The comment was shortly deleted and Luke has since made a public apology over his offensive remark . The revelation follows after Rabbitohs' sealed a bitter 18-17 victory against the Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium . Many others have defended Luke's offensive remarks, saying it was a 'lovely gesture' to find the injured fan . The revelation follows after Rabbitohs' sealed a bitter 18-17 victory against the Bulldogs during the Good Friday showdown after a last-gasp penalty ended in controversy. As NRL referees, officials and players made their way off the field and towards the tunnel after full time, a section of the crowd started hurling plastic water bottles and abuse at them. Sideline interchange official Darren Alchin was taken to hospital with a suspected broken shoulder and two men have been identified for allegedly throwing bottles.

Souths hooker Issac Luke has become embroiled in a social media storm . The 27-year-old had posted a heartfelt appeal to find a young injured fan . But he was taunted by Bulldog fans on Instagram over his posts . He lashed out at them, calling them 'lil poofters' on Saturday . The offensive comment prompted an immediate social media backlash . The post was immediately deleted and Luke has since apologised . The Rabbitohs star is now under investigation by the NRL integrity unit . It comes after Souths sealed a bitter win over the Bulldogs on Friday .


Arachnophobes beware - the following will make your blood run cold. A Victorian driver got a rude shock when a massive huntsman crawled out from inside his door handle. The spine-tinging video, which was captured in Wangaratta, northeast Victoria, begins with the man approaching his black Holden Ute and spraying the door with an insect repellent. The driver  sprays his car with insect repellent, forcing a huntsman spider to reveal itself from under the door handle . ‘Get out, you bast***,’ he stoically says to the spider. But the man appears less composed when the hairy huntsman’s legs pop out, yelping and cowering back in fright. ‘That’s the creepiest thing ever,’ he says between yelling expletives. ‘It’s a bloody super-spider!’ Having endured  enough of the spray, the spider drops onto road and retreats underneath the vehicle. 'Yeah, I love living in the bush,' declares the man. The spider drops onto road and retreats underneath the vehicle, much to the drivers relief . The video has already garnered hundreds of thousands of view on social media since being uploaded on Friday . Huntsman are a breed of spiders notorious for their formidable size and speed, though their venom is not considered dangerous for humans . The video, titled ‘Nothing worse than opening your car door and feeling something furry’, was uploaded to social media on Friday. It has already garnered over 100,000 views on YouTube and 12,000 shares on Facebook. Huntsman are a breed of spiders notorious for their formidable size and speed, though their venom is not considered dangerous for humans.

The terrifying video was captured in Wangaratta, northeast Victoria . A man sprays insect repellent under the handle door of his Holden Ute . He cowers back in fear when the huntsman drops out and onto the road .


Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino has likened England hot-shot Harry Kane to Gabriel Batistuta and insisted he will be there to help him when things do not go to plan. Kane moved to within two strikes of the 30-goal barrier for the season after scoring on his full international debut some 79 seconds after coming on against Lithuania at Wembley last Friday night. England boss Roy Hodgson is mindful of keeping expectations in check for Kane, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise after finally breaking into the Spurs first-team following loan spells at the likes of Leicester and Norwich. Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino has compared Harry Kane to Gabriel Batistuta . Batistuta was an Argentina international who also played for Italian club Roma . Pochettino has said he will be there to help Kane when things are not going to plan for him . Pochettino (right) played alongside Batistuta with the Argentina international team . Former Argentina international Pochettino knows lows can come just as quickly as highs, so will be ready to offer Kane advice whenever it is needed. 'Harry Kane has skills that are similar to different players, including Batistuta. The challenge is doing it all again next season,' said Pochettino, who faced England in the 2002 World Cup finals in the same team as the renowned Argentina forward. 'Now it is up to him. Harry knows the way to improve his ability. He is in a very good moment to keep working hard and develop his game. 'You need to wait for the right moment to give a player the responsibility because sometimes we can see a player is ready, but not quite complete to assume the responsibility and keep the same level. 'Big players always have a good first season - like (Wayne) Rooney, after his first season a lot of people maybe had doubts about the next one, but this is football. 'It is not easy when the player goes down, this is our challenge, but not only with Harry, with all players. 'There may be people who doubt him about next season, but the people that know him understand, like us, know that Harry can keep the level he has shown.' England boss Hodgson wants Kane to continue his international development with the Under 21s this summer, after helping Gareth Southgate's team qualify unbeaten for the June tournament in Portugal. Spurs, meanwhile, are set for an end-of-season trip to Sydney for a match at the ANZ Stadium on May 30, with Kane expected to feature. Kane marked his England debut with a goal against Lithuania, 79 seconds after replacing Wayne Rooney . Roy Hodgson wants Kane to play for England Under 21s at the European Championships in the summer . Tottenham striker Kane (left) is nearing the 30-goal mark after an outstanding season . Pochettino, though, believes with the right discussions a positive solution for all parties can be found to avoid any potential of player burnout. The Tottenham manager said: 'It is only one week in Sydney. We need to analyse after the holidays, the amount of rest he will need (before the start of the 2015-16 campaign). 'Different players need different amounts of rest, so we will have a lot of different dates for players to start their pre-season.'

Harry Kane is approaching 30 goals for the season in all competitions . Mauricio Pochettino says Kane is similar to Gabriel Batistuta . Roy Hodgson wants Kane to play for the England Under 21s in the summer .


Juventus director Pavel Nedved has revealed that Barcelona are interested in bringing Paul Pogba to the Nou Camp. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the former midfielder, who made 324 appearances for the Turin club, insisted the French star won't be moving anywhere. But he also admitted he was pleased Juve didn't draw the Catalan side in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Pavel Nedved, pictured during his days as a Juventus player, has revealed Barcelona's interest in Paul Pogba . The Czech star, who is a director at Juventus, insisted that French midfielder Pogba will not be moving . Nedved said: We are aware that Barca and other big clubs want him but he has a contract with us.' Barca cannot acquire any players until 2016 after the Catalan club was punished for breaching rules regarding the signing of international players under the age of 18. Pogba has been strongly linked with a move to Paris St Germain this summer while former club United as well as neighbours Manchester City and Premier League leaders Chelsea are also reported to be interested in signing the midfielder. The Frenchman played a major role in helping Juventus clinch their third successive scudetto last season, scoring seven goals and setting up seven more in 36 Serie A appearances for the Bianconeri. Juve, who are still competing on three fronts this season, are currently without Pogba's services after he sustained a hamstring injury last month and was ruled out of action until May. 'We lose a lot without him,' Nedved said. 'He is a footballer with an enormous quality but we cannot cry about it. 'We have a great roster that can overcome his loss.' Nedved expressed his relief that Juventus avoided Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-finals . Nedved believes that Lionel Messi is currently in the greatest form of his career . Asked for his opinion on Barcelona, Nedved said: 'Barca are now so unpredictable and this makes them even more dangerous. 'With players like Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez, if they can run, they will. They were amazing against Manchester City and gave an exhibition. 'Messi is a fantastic player and I don't know what to think when I see him on the pitch. 'He's been at a high level for many years but maybe now he's having his best spell. It's great to see him enjoying playing football. 'I didn't want Barca in the quarter-finals. They are among the two best teams in Europe and favourites to win the Champions League alongside Bayern Munich. 'They are playing to a really high standard, as can be seen by their results over the past few months. Juventus are heading for another Scudetto, enjoying a 14-point lead over nearest challengers Roma . Nedved fires home against Real Madrid in the 2003 Champions League semi-final . Nedved in action for the Czech Republic during the 2006 World Cup group match with Ghana . Nedved, who made 91 appearances and scored 18 goals for the Czech Republic, added that Real Madrid are 'not at the level of last year,' when they beat Atletico Madrid to win the Champions League. Juventus, who have a massive 14-point lead over Roma in Italy, have drawn French team Monaco in the last eight. Although they are arguably the weakest team left in the competition, Nedved has warned against complacency. 'Obviously there were more famous opponents we could have drawn,' he said. 'But we must not underestimate Monaco. 'They went dangerously close to being knocked out at home, but they impressed me against Arsenal in London.'

Barcelona among host of clubs keen on signing Paul Pogba . But Juventus director Pavel Nedved insists he is going nowhere . Czech admitted he is pleased Juve avoided Barca in Champions League . Claims that Lionel Messi is currently enjoying 'best spell' of his career . CLICK HERE for the latest Barcelona news .


A convicted sex offender was reportedly run over by his girlfriend after she allegedly caught him abusing a 12-year-old girl. James Oliver, 48, was left with a serious leg injury after being allegedly hit by a car driven by Linda Currier, 53. Police report that they found Oliver in the driveway of a home in Noblesboro, Maine, on Saturday night, reports NBC News. James Oliver, 48, (left) was allegedly hit by a car driven by Linda Currier, 53 (right) who caught him allegedly trying to sexually assault a young girl . They said that the pair had argued inside the home after Currier caught him allegedly trying to sexually assault the young girl, authorities said. The dispute moved outside the home and then Currier allegedly hit Oliver with the car - he was taken to hospital. The 12-year-old girl did not require medical attention, officials said. Currier was arrested for operating under the influence and aggravated assault - she was later released on bail pending a court appearance. The dispute moved outside the home and then Currier allegedly hit Oliver with the car (pictured)  - he was taken to hospital . Police report that they found Oliver in the driveway of a home in Noblesboro, Maine, on Saturday night . Oliver was arrested on his release from hospital and charged with attempted gross sexual assault, unlawful sexual touching and failing to comply with the sex offender registration act for not updating his address . Oliver was arrested on his release from hospital and charged with attempted gross sexual assault, unlawful sexual touching and failing to comply with the sex offender registration act for not updating his address. On Tuesday he was transferred to a state prison where he was being held pending a court appearance. Oliver was previously convicted of sexual abuse of a minor and rape, according to the Maine Sex Offender Registry.

James Oliver, 48, was left with a serious leg injury after being allegedly hit by a car driven by Linda Currier, 53 . Police found Oliver in the driveway of a home in  Maine, on Saturday night . Currier arrested operating under the influence and aggravated assault . Oliver  charged with attempted gross sexual assault, unlawful sexual touching and failing to comply with the sex offender registration act .


Liverpool target Neto is also wanted by PSG and clubs in Spain as Brendan Rodgers faces stiff competition to land the Fiorentina goalkeeper, according to the Brazilian's agent Stefano Castagna. The Reds were linked with a move for the 25-year-old, whose contract expires in June, earlier in the season when Simon Mignolet was dropped from the side. A January move for Neto never materialised but the former Atletico Paranaense keeper looks certain to leave the Florence-based club in the summer. Neto rushes from his goal as Juan Iturbe bears down on him during Fiorentina's clash with Roma in March . Neto is wanted by a number of top European clubs including Liverpool and PSG, according to his agent . It had been reported that Neto had a verbal agreement to join Serie A champions Juventus at the end of the season but his agent has revealed no decision about his future has been made yet. And Castagna claims Neto will have his pick of top European clubs when the transfer window re-opens in the summer, including Brendan Rodgers' side. 'There are many European clubs interested in Neto, such as for example Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain,' Stefano Castagna is quoted as saying by Gazzetta TV. Firoentina goalkeeper Neto saves at the feet of Tottenham midfielder Nacer Chadli in the Europa League . 'In Spain too there are clubs at the very top level who are tracking him. Real Madrid? We'll see. 'We have not made a definitive decision, but in any case he will not accept another loan move elsewhere.' Neto, who represented Brazil at the London 2012 Olympics but has not featured for the senior side, was warned against joining a club as a No 2 by national coach Dunga. Neto joined Fiorentina from Atletico Paranaense in 2011 and established himself as No1 in the last two seasons.

Fiorentina goalkeeper Neto has been linked with Liverpool and Arsenal . Neto joined Firoentina from Brazilian outfit Atletico Paranaense in 2011 . He is also wanted by PSG and Spanish clubs, according to his agent . CLICK HERE for the latest Liverpool news .


Not everyone should be behind the wheel of a $50,000 car. That's one lesson to take away from a video posted by YouTube user Richard Stewart showing a Porsche Cayman flying out of control as it speeds from a green light on Prince Edward Island in Canada. The sports car swerves wildly before smashing into the concrete median. A wheel even comes off before the car finally comes to a halt. 'Just cause you have a nice car doesn't make you a good driver. Don't let your son drive your Porsche!" wrote Stewart on YouTube about the crash. KHOU reports that police have not made the identity of the driver public but have said that a 31-year-old driver was cited for the crash, leaving the car a totaled as it was towed away. The footage begins with the Porsche idling at a green light . The car booms ahead at a dangerous speed . Almost immediately the driver begins to lose control . The unidentified man verse wildly across the dividing line . The car is twisting at such dangerous speeds a wheel comes loose . Finally the car comes to a halt, a total wreck waiting for the tow truck .

Video posted by YouTube user Richard Stewart showing a Porsche Cayman flying out of control . Police cited unidentified driver for the crash . Car reportedly wrecked and needed to be towed from the scene .


Ahead of this weekend's Premier League action, Sportsmail will be providing you with all you need to know about every fixture, with team news, provisional squads, betting odds and Opta stats. Here is all the information you need for Sunderland's home clash with Newcastle... Sunderland vs Newcastle United (Stadium of Light) Team news . Sunderland . Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole will return to the starting line-up for Sunday's derby clash with Newcastle. Head coach Dick Advocaat has confirmed that Cattermole will be back against the Magpies after serving a two-match ban for reaching 10 bookings for the season. Lee Cattermole trains with Sunderland on the Friday before the Wear-Tyne derby . However, Advocaat will be without experienced defender Wes Brown, who is facing up to a month on the sidelines with a knee problem, while midfielders Will Buckley (knee) and Emanuele Giaccherini (ankle) are still out. Provisional squad: Pantilimon, Mannone, Reveillere, Van Aanholt, Jones, O'Shea, Vergini, Coates, Cattermole, Bridcutt, Rodwell, Johnson, Larsson, Alvarez, Gomez, Agnew, Honeyman, Fletcher, Defoe, Wickham, Graham. Newcastle . Newcastle defender Massadio Haidara will miss Sunday's derby trip to Sunderland and will not play again this season after undergoing surgery. The full-back has undergone a procedure to remove a cyst from the knee which has forced him to sit out the last two games. Massadio Haidara has undergone knee surgery which will see him miss the rest of the season . Haidara will join fellow defenders Steven Taylor (achilles), Paul Dummett (knee) and midfielders Cheick Tiote (also knee) and Siem de Jong (collapsed lung) on the sidelines. Midfielder Mehdi Abeid could be involved after recovering from a thigh problem, but winger Rolando Aarons (hamstring) will not be risked and defender Fabricio Coloccini and striker Papiss Cisse continue their respective suspensions. Provisional squad: Krul, Elliot, Janmaat, Williamson, R.Taylor, Satka, Sterry, Abeid, Anita, Colback, Sissoko, Gouffran, Cabella, Ameobi, Obertan, Gutierrez, Kemen, Riviere, Perez, Armstrong. Kick-off: Sunday, 4pm - Sky Sports 1 . Odds (subject to change): . Sunderland 8/5 . Draw 21/10 . Newcastle 9/5 . Referee: Mike Dean . Managers: Dick Advocaat (Sunderland), John Carver (Newcastle) Head-to-head league record: Sunderland wins 45, draws 43, Newcastle wins 51 . Key match stats (supplied by Opta) Sunderland are unbeaten in their last six Premier League games against Newcastle United (W4 D2), winning the last four. Newcastle have seen nine goals scored by substitutes in the Premier League this season; more than any other side. The Black Cats have won four successive league derbies against Newcastle United for the first time in their history. Adam Johnson has scored three goals and provided one assist in his last four Premier League appearances versus Newcastle United. Sunderland have won just two of their last 16 Premier League matches at the Stadium of Light (W2 D7 L7). Steven Taylor (centre) celebrates a goal by Ryan Taylor (right) during Newcastle's last victory over Sunderland which was a 1-0 win at the Stadium of Light in August 2011 . The Black Cats have failed to score in four of their last five Premier League home matches. The Magpies have conceded a league-high nine goals in the final five minutes of Premier League games this season, including Adam Johnson’s 90th minute winner in the reverse fixture back in December. Those nine goals conceded in the final five minutes of PL games in 2014-15 have cost Newcastle United eight points. Sunderland have drawn seven games 0-0 in the Premier League this season – the record in a single PL campaign is nine (Sheffield United in 1993-94 and Leeds in 1996-97). The two players with the most yellow cards in the Premier League this season could meet in this match – Lee Cattermole and Jack Colback (10 yellows each).

Lee Cattermole returns from suspension for Sunderland . But Black Cats without injured defender Wes Brown through a knee injury . Knee surgery will see Massadio Haidara miss rest of the season . Steven Taylor, Paul Dummett, Cheick Tiote and Siem de Jong also out for Newcastle United ahead of Wear-Tyne derby .


If Rory McIlroy succeeds in his bid to complete a career grand slam by winning the forthcoming Masters, it will complete a life-long journey for the world's best golfer. In conjunction with his sponsor Bose, McIlroy has released a video chronicling his journey from playing the back greens as a youngster to conquering the golfing world - plus a few low points along the way. The video begins with McIlroy embarking on a jog at the crack of dawn as the tagline 'Six weeks to Georgia' appears on the screen. The video features an interview with Rory McIlroy as a youngster before he became a golfing superstar . Old footage of McIlroy honing his golfing skills in his parent's living room feature during the video . McIlroy walks away after he threw his club into the lake at the WGC-Cadillac Championship in March . 'Dad took me out into the course and made me hit a couple of shots and that's how I got into golf,' says a young McIlroy at the beginning of the feature. The moments of triumph are not the only events covered in the video as McIlroy's implosion at the WGC Cadillac Championship when he threw his 3-iron in the lake out of sheer frustration is also touched upon. 'There's always going to be highs and lows,' says the Northern Irishman. 'There's been low points in my professional career. I think everybody goes through that at some part of their life where they're not quite comfortable with who they are and they're trying to figure themselves out. McIlroy gets through some tough gym work as he steps up his preparations for Augusta . 'I've never been a perfectionist, but I've always wanted to be the best that I can be,' McIlroy states . The Northern Irishman heads to Augusta hoping to complete a full set of major titles . 'I guess you just have to go back to the drawing board. It's just about figuring out what you need to do to put yourself back on the right track.' McIlroy's grueling training regime has been well documented with the video showcasing the Holywood native hard at work in the gym as he steps up his preparations for the big one in Augusta on April 9. 'I had this vision and this dream of trying to become the best player in the world and I just wanted to do everything I could to try and achieve that. McIlroy hits the road as the World No 1 steps up his training ahead of the 2015 Masters on April 9 . 'I've never been a perfectionist, but I've always wanted to be the best that I can be.' 'People didn't think that I worked as hard as I did. They think that it's mostly natural talent. They don't see the hard work that goes in behind it to be able to achieve these things.' He continues: 'I try to not talk about the Masters. People have been bringing it up since last year. It sort of means more this year because it's the only one that I haven't won. 'But, it's just another golf tournament. It can only distract from what you're trying to do which is to just go out and play as best as you can.' 'I think once you achieve something, you need to reset your goals. That's what gives you the motivation to keep coming back and keep practicing and keep trying to get better.'

Rory McIlroy heads to the Masters hoping to complete a career grand slam . Bose have released a video chronicling McIlroy's early career . The 2015 Masters kicks off at Augusta on April 9 . READ: McIlroy warned Tiger Woods he would catch him after penning golf legend a letter... when he was just nine years old! CLICK HERE for all the latest news and build-up to the  Masters 2015 .


Sergio Garcia insists he is focused on winning his first PGA Tour title since 2012 at this week's Shell Houston Open, despite the Masters being just around the corner. Rory McIlroy's bid for a third major victory in succession to complete the career grand slam, plus the question of whether Tiger Woods will end his self-imposed exile from the game, have dominated the agenda for weeks. But, although the Golf Club of Houston is set up to try to replicate some of the conditions the players will face at Augusta, Garcia is concentrating on ending his victory drought. Sergio Garcia lines up a putt during the Cadillac Championship in Doral, Florida last month . The 35-year-old, who finished third 12 months ago but went on to miss the cut at Augusta, told a pre-tournament press conference: 'I think that every single week it's a new story and some weeks you play terrible and then the next week you play amazing. 'Some weeks you play great and the next week you play terrible and some weeks I play great and then you play great. You never know what's going to come out. Obviously you hope and you wish that you play as best as you can. 'I think that there's no doubt that obviously the Masters is in the back of our minds, but I'm here to play well, to get in some good rhythm, to have a chance at winning this week and then as soon as Sunday finishes then I'll concentrate on the Masters. Garcia hits his approach from the fairway at the TPC Blue Monster Course last month . 'I'm not going to be on the golf course this week thinking maybe let's try this shot because I'll have it next week on the 12th or on the 15th or something like that. No. I'm going to be focused on what I want to achieve here and then when Sunday finishes then I can concentrate on next week. 'I felt really comfortable here when I came last year. I wanted to try it again this year and hopefully I'll do better next week, too.' Spaniard Garcia plays out of the trees by the 11th hole at Augusta during the Masters in 2013 . Garcia is also comfortable with the fact that he may never win a major after coming close yet again in the Open last year, finishing second behind McIlroy at Hoylake. 'If it comes down to me not winning any majors when I'm done with my golfing career, I'm not going to be sad,' he added. 'It's not the main thing. Obviously it's something nice to have, and if I get it I'm not going to give it back, but it's not the main thing in my life. 'I think as you get older, as you get more and more experience, you realize the important things in life. I'm not saying that winning a major is not important, but it's not the most important thing in the world. I think there's a lot of other things that you can do that can not only fulfil you as a player, but also as a person.' Garcia (left) stands beside Rickie Fowler with their runner-up trophies at last year's Open at Hoylake . Garcia and Texas native Jordan Spieth are the only players in the world's top 10 left in the field after the withdrawals of Henrik Stenson and Jimmy Walker. World number two Stenson has the flu and cancelled a trip to Augusta, while Walker headed to Augusta after winning the Valero Texas Open but was taken ill and joined Stenson in pulling out. The winner in Houston will qualify for the Masters if they are not already exempt.

Sergio Garcia is looking to win his first PGA Tour title since 2012 . The Spaniard is competing at this week's Shell Houston Open . It is the last PGA Tour event ahead of next week's Masters at Augusta .


Jailed: Riki Hughes stole £17,000 from the football club where he volunteered as club secretary . A veteran of the Iraq war stole thousands of pounds from a children's football club and spent the money on a stag trip to Las Vegas. Lance Corporal Riki Hughes has been jailed for 16 months after he plundered the accounts of Tidworth Town Football Club, where he volunteered as club secretary. He claimed to be making rent payments to the club's landlord - even though the team was actually getting its property for free. Hughes, 31, spent the money on himself, including camping equipment and a stag holiday to Las Vegas, Salisbury Crown Court heard. The former soldier, who served two tours in Iraq, pleaded guilty to stealing £17,000, but the club claimed that the total theft amounted to £26,000. He made out 70 bogus rent payments to an account he'd set up in the name of landlord Aspire Defence, which was not charging the club rent. Judge Andrew Barnett said: 'For two years you milked the funds of that football club, set up principally for those involved in the services and their children. 'You in effect treated a great deal of club money as your own. It was spent on personal luxuries. That's a disgraceful thing to do.' Hughes, from Andover in Hampshire, has been working as a telecoms engineer since he left the Army. Holiday: Hughes spent the money on a stag holiday in Las Vegas, pictured, and camping equipment . The court heard that he had an exemplary career in the military, and no prior criminal record. Relatives burst into tears when Hughes was sentenced to 16 months in prison. Speaking after the case, Tidworth Town chairman said the Wiltshire club was happy that justice had been done. 'It's a relief we can put this to bed now,' he said.

Ex-soldier Riki Hughes, 31, was the club secretary at Tidworth Town FC . He set up fake bank account in the name of the team's landlord and siphoned off at least £17,000 . Jailed for 16 months after spending the cash on camping gear and holiday .


Mustafa Kamal resigned as ICC president on Wednesday, accusing India of influencing the outcome of the Cricket World Cup quarter-final against Bangladesh. 'Everyone saw what happened during the Bangladesh-India match ... India has influenced the outcome of the match using its position (in the ICC),' Kamal, a Bangladeshi, said at the airport on his return from the tournament in Australia. 'From now on, I am a former president of the ICC. I would have reacted similarly had it happened to any other country.' Mustafa Kamal, pictured with the Cricket World Cup trophy, has stepped down as ICC President . Kamal has stepped down amid accusations that India influenced the outcome of a World Cup match . Kamal, also president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, criticised the umpires in the quarter-final, and questioned their partiality, over a disputed no-ball against India batsman Rohit Sharma. Kamal said he spoke as a fan, and not the president, but International Cricket Council chief executive Dave Richardson termed the criticism as 'unfortunate.' Kamal also said the ICC asked him to either withdraw his statement or apologise for his outburst, otherwise he would be denied the duty of handing the World Cup trophy to the winning captain at the final. Kamal presents India's Virat Kohli with a man of the match award during the 2014 World Twenty20 . 'I told them during the meeting that I did not speak against any particular person or a country. Why should I apologise?,' Kamal said. 'I am the president of the ICC, to whom would I seek apology?' ICC chairman Narayanaswami Srinivasan, of India, handed over the trophy to captain Michael Clarke after Australia defeated New Zealand by seven wickets in Sunday's final in Melbourne.

Kamal criticised umpires' decision to award controversial no-ball against Rohit Sharma in India's World Cup match with Bangladesh . The Bangladeshi president alleged India had used its influence in the ICC . Governing body asked him to withdraw his statement or apologise . But Kamal confirmed his intention to step down .


West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has defended Nigel Pearson and admires the Leicester City boss for being 'his own man.' Allardyce had Pearson on his coaching staff when he was Newcastle United manager in 2007, and the pair will be reunited when West Ham face Leicester at the King Power Stadium on Saturday. Pearson has been involved in several controversial incidents this season, including grabbing Crystal Palace's James McArthur by the throat and losing his cool with a reporter during a press conference. Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson (left) has been involved in a number of controversial incidents this season . However, West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has defended Pearson and says that he is 'his own man' In February, Pearson was involved in an altercation with Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur . It has added to speculation Pearson will be sacked by Leicester with the club sitting bottom of the Barclays Premier League, but Allardyce feels his former colleague has done an 'unbelievable job'. 'He's his own man. He has his own methods and believes in not only himself but what he is doing,' Allardyce said. 'Occasionally as we all get under pressure, we may make odd comments or the odd mistake, but we're human beings like everybody else. 'He's done an unbelievable job, not just at Leicester but as a manager.' Leicester are seven points from safety, albeit with a game in hand against leaders Chelsea, but Allardyce feels Pearson will be frustrated because their performances do not warrant their lowly position. Leicester defender Robert Huth (centre) in action during the club's session at Belvoir Drive Training Ground . 'I think overall Nigel must be pulling out his hair,' Allardyce added. 'Why have those performances not given them more results? That's the cruciality of the Premier League. 'On occasion his team have been in the ascendency. They have not taken advantage of it by not scoring or converting chances. They've paid the ultimate price in the end. That's this level for you. 'There are critical moments and if you don't take them, they're very costly indeed. Performances are always important, but in the end it's a results business.' West Ham scored with their only two shots on target against Leicester when they beat them 2-0 in December, and Pearson will try to end a goal-drought at the King Power Stadium that is five hours and 15 minutes long. Leicester's Danny Drinkwater (left) and David Nugent (right) are put through their paces in training . Pearson talks to his Leicester squad ahead of their Premier League game against West Ham on Saturday .

Leicester City take on West Ham at the King Power Stadium on Saturday . Foxes boss Nigel Pearson has come under fire this season for some of his antics this season . These have included outbursts to the press and an altercation with Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur in February . West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has defended Pearson and his record . The pair have worked together before when Pearson was part of Allardyce's coaching team at Newcastle in 2007 .