Manchester United duo Marcos Rojo and Angel di Maria celebrated their 3-1 triumph over Aston Villa by flying out to Lisbon on Easter Sunday. United defender Rojo uploaded an image of himself posing alongside fellow Argentina international Di Maria and their families while sitting on a private plane. Rojo, who sat next to his wife and daughter, played the full 90 minutes against Villa while Premier League record signing Di Maria came on for the last 20. Marcos Rojo (back right) poses while travelling to Portugal along with his family and Angel di Maria (left) Both Rojo (left) and Di Maria (right) appeared in Manchester United's 3-1 win over Aston Villa on Saturday . The Manchester United and Argentina duo sealed moves to Old Trafford during the summer transfer window . Portugal is a familiar destination for both Rojo and Di Maria as they played for Sporting Lisbon and Benfica respectively before eventually joining United in the summer. Rojo made headlines for the wrong reasons on Saturday evening as the Mail On Sunday exclusively revealed he had an affair with fitness instructor Sarah Watson. She claimed Rojo had offered money to spend the night with him before eventually sleeping with the 25-year-old without knowing he was married with a young daughter. The £200,000-a-week Manchester United defender is said to have bombarded her with explicit messages and naked photos. Sarah Watson was determined to clear her name following blackmail allegations . Watson claims she was offered money to spend the night with Rojo (right) but declined . Watson claims she was offered £35,000 by a newspaper to sell the story about her affair with Rojo . She said on meeting Rojo at United's Christmas party: ‘He came over to me and sat down. His English was quite bad but he was chatty and said nice things to me about how I looked and how he liked my Versace dress. 'He said “You’re gorgeous, you’re the best looking girl in here.” It was all very cheesy, but he’s so good looking that I gave him my number. ‘He asked me how much it would cost for me to have sex with Marcos. I told him that I was not a prostitute.’ But she did find the Argentine star’s dusky looks attractive and they ended up in a bedroom. ‘I did it because I liked him, not for money or with any intention to sell the story on,’ she says. Rojo and Di Maria are not back in action until next Sunday when Manchester United host local rivals Manchester City.

Marcos Rojo and Angel di Maria will spend Easter Sunday in Portugal . Man United defender Rojo posted an image of himself on board plane . Rojo was joined by his family - including his wife and daughter . Argentina ace Rojo has been accused of sleeping with a fitness instructor . The Red Devils face local rivals Manchester City on April 12 .


Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho believes securing FA Cup silverware would save their season, with hopes of a top four finish looking increasingly unlikely. The Reds go into their FA Cup quarter-final replay at Blackburn on Wednesday night off the back of damaging league losses at home to Manchester United in March followed by a 4-1 thumping at the hands of Arsenal on Saturday. Defeat at the Emirates means fifth-placed Liverpool trail fourth spot, currently occupied by Manchester City, by seven points with seven games remaining. Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho (left) says winning the FA Cup would rescue their season . Coutinho (right) started Liverpool's 4-1 thumping at top four rivals Arsenal on Saturday afternoon . Fifth-placed Liverpool (centre) are seven points adrift of fourth with seven games left in the Premier League . After the match, Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers conceded defeat in his quest for the top four. And while Coutinho refuses to give up hope of qualifying for Europe's elite club competition for a second consecutive season, he does admit that ending the campaign with silverware would be some consolation if that was the case. 'Winning the [FA] cup would save our season. It is very important for us to have that as an objective,' Coutinho told the club's official website. 'We have to pick ourselves up after what happened against Arsenal to get the results that we need. We want to be in the Champions League. That is our primary objective. We have seven games left and we have to see what happens.' 'Arsenal played very well, as they always do, and we did not do the things we have to do to win, the things we have done in previous games, like pressing the ball well. 'That was the difference between the two sides. It was a very difficult game but we have to pick our heads up and keep believing. We have to keep going. We have more games to come and lots of things can still happen.' After the match, Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers conceded defeat in his quest for the top four . Rodgers (centre) is  preparing his side for their FA Cup quarter-final replay at Blackburn on Wednesday night .

Liverpool lost 4-1 at Premier League top four rivals Arsenal on Saturday . Result sees Reds seven points adrift of fourth place with seven games left . Reds travel to Blackburn in their FA Cup quarter-final replay on Wednesday . Adrian Durham: Sterling would only be earning the same as Balotelli if he signed new £100,000-a-week deal at Liverpool... that's the real issue here . CLICK HERE for the latest Liverpool news .


Forget Swansea, Stoke City and West Ham, the top seven would be seriously challenged by 'Team Pardew' should this manager have had a full season in charge at one club. That is after Crystal Palace, managed by Alan Pardew, beat Manchester City 2-1 at Selhurst Park on Monday night, the English manager's ninth win  in South London since leaving his role at Newcastle at the end of December. His former club have since plummeted in the Premier League while Palace now find themselves threatening the top half, and combining his records at both clubs this season would see 'Team Pardew' sit in eighth place, just five points behind Southampton. Alan Pardew could be a candidate for manager of the year with his record at Newcastle and Crystal Palace . The Premier League table with Team Pardew in - as well as a team complied from pre/post Pardew results . Newcastle fans were calling for Pardew's head for many years, seen as owner Mike Ashley's puppet, and were sitting in 10th place when the 53-year-old returned 'home' to Crystal Palace. The Eagles were in the relegation zone along with Burnley and Leicester City, struggling to pick up points following Neil Warnock's sacking. But while John Carver has picked up just nine points in his 12 games in charge at St James' Park, Pardew's Palace now have 39 points and are comfortably above the drop zone. A team compiled with Newcastle and Crystal Palace's stats pre/post Pardew would be sitting in 19th (albeit with 22 Premier League clubs now technically involved). A top-half finish is now the aim for Pardew and his men, as Toon supporters still fear relegation following a 1-0 derby defeat to Sunderland on Easter Sunday. Pardew celebrates with his Newcastle team and Moussa SIssoko after his goal against QPR in November . Newcastle fans hold a banner calling the removal of Pardew in a Premier League game at Stoke in September . John Carver's Toon side are not safe from relegation yet after a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Sunderland . It all started with a 4-0 win at Dover Athletic in the FA Cup and now Crystal Palace have won four in five, most recently beating the champions. His stock will continue to rise with this table, which would put him just six points adrift of Liverpool in fifth. Pardew has recently insisted he would perform at a top club, better than Monday's counterpart Manuel Pellegrini at least, while he is definitely a contender for Premier League Manager of the Year award. And nobody would have predicted that in 2014. Glenn Murray celebrates after netting the opening goal during Crystal Palace's victory over Manchester City .

Crystal Palace beat Manchester City 2-1 at Selhurst Park on Monday . South London side are  11th in Premier League table and look to be safe . Alan Pardew left Newcastle in 10th place when he departed in December . John Carver's side have only picked up nine points since . 'Team Pardew' would be eighth in the table five points behind Southampton .


Bafetimbi Gomis scored twice in Swansea's 3-1 win over Hull on Saturday and tops this week's EA Sports' Performance Index after another thrilling installment of Premier League action. During a weekend of stunning goals, Gomis got in on the act with an impressive overhead kick before doubling his goal tally in the last minute of Swansea's victory. The Frenchman - who made a slow start to his career in south Wales after playing second fiddle to the recently-departed Wilfried Bony - has scored four goals in his last six Premier League games and earned a Game Index score of 52.9 this weekend. Bafetimbi Gomis scores with an overhead kick during Swansea's 3-1 victory over Hull on Saturday . The Swansea striker celebrates with young fans and tops this week's EA Sports' Performance Indez . The EA Sports PPI is the official player rating index of the  Premier League. It measures a player's contribution to the success of his team. The intention is to remove any opinion bias and only work with proven statistical measurements which become more accurate as the season progresses. So, what are the six indices? 1. Winning performance . 2. Player's performance per match . 3. Appearances . 4. Goals scored . 5. Assists . 6. Clean sheets . With Gomis in first place, Queens Park Rangers forward Charlie Austin is this week's runner up with a Game Index score of 52.2 after scoring and assisting a further two goals in the Hoops' 4-1 victory away at West Brom on Saturday. Austin has scored 16 goals for Chris Ramsey's relegation strugglers this term and continues to impress as QPR battle to beat the drop with seven games remaining. Chelsea star Eden Hazard completes the top three with a Game Index score of 51.7 having scored from the spot during the Blues' 2-1 win over Stoke. Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera is in the top four, like his club, after scoring twice and recording a total pass completion rate of 95.9. Arsenal trio Olivier Giroud, Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil - who all found the net in the Gunners' 4-1 victory over Liverpool  - make the top 10. Glenn Murray also makes the list following his tap in during Crystal Palace's victory over Manchester City on Monday night, while midfielders Esteban Cambiasso and Ki Sung-Yeung were among the Premier League's top 10 performers this weekend. Charlie Austin (right) celebrates with team-mates during QPR's 4-1 win against West Brom at The Hawthorns . Eden Hazard celebrates after scoring from the spot as Chelsea defeated Stoke 2-1 at Stamford Bridge . Alexis Sanchez fires the ball at goal to score for Arsenal as the Gunners beat Liverpool 4-1 at The Emirates .

Bafetimbi Gomis scored a brace as Swansea beat Hull 3-1 on Saturday . The French striker tops this week's EA Sports' Performance Index . Charlie Austin takes second place after QPR's 4-1 win against West Brom . Eden Hazard, Alexis Sancez and Ander Herrera also feature in the top 10 . CLICK HERE for all the latest Premier League news .


Brendan Rodgers is considering recalling £20million misfit defender Dejan Lovren at Blackburn in the FA Cup on Wednesday to help save Liverpool’s season. The trip to Ewood Park for a quarter-final replay has even more significance as in comes in the wake of successive morale-sapping Premier League defeats by Manchester United and Arsenal. Saturday’s 4-1 loss at the Emirates was marked by the kind of shaky defending that blighted Liverpool’s early-season play. Brendan Rodgers is ready to recall his out-of-favour defender Dejan Lovren for the FA Cup quarter-final . Lovren has been out of the Liverpool team recently, but could return against Blackburn on Wednesday . Now — with Emre Can and Martin Skrtel both suspended — Rodgers is set to bring in Lovren after opting for veteran Kolo Toure ahead of him at the weekend. ‘Kolo gives everything every single day so I knew what I would get with him at Arsenal,” said Rodgers. ‘Dejan was out over the international break but he is looking strong. He will be in contention.’ Lovren has made only 16 league starts since he was signed last summer from Southampton but the Croatian may have to step up as Rodgers sticks with the three-man defensive system that helped turn around Liverpool’s season in December. Kolo Toure was given a torrid time by Arsenal as he reutrned in the place of suspended Martin Skrtel . Rodgers says he knows what to expect from Toure, but could turn to Lovren for the must-win game . Liverpool were thrashed 4-1 by Arsenal, and now the FA Cup represents their last chance for a good season .

Dejan Lovren was left out of Liverpool's 4-1 defeat to Arsenal . Lovren could return for viral FA Cup quarter-final replay on Wednesday . Brendan Rodgers is considering replacing Kolo Toure with Lovren . READ: Sterling would only be earning the same as Balotelli if he signed new £100,000-a-week deal at Liverpool... and that's the real issue here . CLICK HERE for all the latest Liverpool news .


Darren Bent pounced in stoppage time to rescue a 1-1 draw for Derby against Brentford at the iPro Stadium. The Bees controlled the game for long periods after going ahead through Alex Pritchard's brilliant strike - but missed chances in the second half came back to haunt them when Bent grabbed his 10th goal for the Rams. Derby went into the game knowing they needed to win to keep their slim hopes of automatic promotion alive and Tom Ince twice went close in the opening seven minutes. Alex Pritchard celebrates his stunning strike with his Brentford team-mates, after putting his side ahead . Derby: Grant, Keogh, Albentosa, Forsyth, Warnock (Whitbread 78 mins), Russell (Dawkins 46), Bryson (Lingard 78), Hendrick, Ince, Bent, Martin . Subs not used: Ward, Roos, Hanson, Thomas . Booked: Bryson . Goal: Bent 92 . Brentford: Button, Odubajo, Dean, Tarkowski, Bidwell, Douglas, Diagouraga, Jota (Dallas 70), Pritchard (Toral 86), Judge, Gray (Smith 80) Subs not used: Craig, McCormack, Bonham, O'Connell . Goal: Pritchard 21 . Booked: Tarkowski . Referee: Graham Scott . The on-loan Hull winger was caught by Toumani Diagouraga in the fifth minute and curled the 25-yard free-kick over the wall and just past David Button's left post with the goalkeeper desperately scrambling to get across. Button had to plunge to his right two minutes later when Ince curled a shot from the edge of the box but Brentford hit back in the 14th minute when Jota's header set up Moses Odubajo for a shot that Lee Grant pushed away. Grant was relieved to see a free-kick from Alan Judge whistle past his left post after Pritchard was tripped by Raul Albentosa just outside the area in the 22nd minute - but he was beaten by a quality goal six minutes later. Diagouraga tackled Jeff Hendrick deep in his own half and found Jonathan Douglas who quickly released Judge, before Pritchard went past Richard Keogh and Craig Bryson and bent a right foot shot from the edge of the box past the despairing dive of Grant. Pritchard again found space just outside the area but this time he shot straight at Grant before Ince ran down the left of Brentford's defence to drive in a low shot which Button saved diving to his left. Alan Judge strikes a free kick over the Derby wall, but it flies just over the crossbar . Brentford were good value for their half-time lead and they came close to increasing it in the 51st minute when Bryson's attempted clearance spun back to Andre Gray - but Albentosa deflected his shot wide. Gray had another chance four minutes later when Douglas played him in but fired wide from eight yards, then the home fans found their voice when sub Simon Dawkins played Bent in but Button raced off his line to make the save. There was a big let-off for Derby in the 68th minute when Jota pulled the ball back from the edge of the six-yard box to tee up Douglas - but his shot was cleared off the line by Craig Forsyth. Brentford had another chance in the 73rd minute when Stuart Dallas crossed to the back post, where Gray headed over at full stretch and the Rams nearly made them pay when Zak Whitbread flicked on a corner and Button made an instinctive save to push the ball behind. But Derby grabbed a goal they barely deserved in the second minute of stoppage time when Hendrick fired in a low shot and Bent pounced to stab home an equaliser that was tough on Brentford. Jonathan Douglas, who had a second-half shot cleared off the line, challenges Jeff Hendrick . Thomas Ince takes on Harlee Dean as Derby struggled to get level in the promotion clash . Darren Bent, who scored the last-minute equaliser for Derby, challenges for a header with Dean .

Alex Pritchard puts Brentford ahead with stunning curling shot . Brentford dominate but fail to take chances to add second goal . Darren Bent pokes home from close range in 92nd minute .


Tony Pulis has discussed pre-season plans with Saido Berahino in an indication he plans to keep the striker beyond the summer transfer window. Berahino is likely to be away with Gareth Southgate’s England under 21 side in the Czech Republic until late June so Pulis has begun his preparations early. West Bromwich Albion were open to bids of £20million for Berahino in January and the 21-year-old has said he would leave to fulfil his desire to play in Champions League football. West Brom manager Tony Pulis has talked pre-season plans with Saido Berahino in an indication the England under 21 striker will remain at The Hawthorns beyond the summer . Berahino has been linked with a move away from West Brom after saying he wants to play European football . Pulis said: ‘Hopefully he's away with the under 21s so I have had a chat with him about pre-season and the time he'll have off but I haven't spoken about anything else to him. ‘I think the kid is happy here, he has played that way and certainly worked that way. We're more than happy to have him here because he has been very good.’ Berahino shares the same agent as Raheem Sterling, Aidy Ward, who was criticised by Brendan Rodgers over the Liverpool player’s contract stand-off. Pulis said: ‘Agents can have a massive influence on players in lots of respects. My argument to that is in the same in life, you get good agents and you get bad agents. Berahino is likely to be included in the England under 21 squad for this summer's European Championships . Berahino scored a vital goal in England's under 21 play-off with Croatia back in October . 'Professional footballers have been given a gift and they have a lifespan of about 10-12 years. We should never forget that. To be the best is what they should be aiming for. ‘If I had an agent I'd just say, 'Look after the money, make sure when I finish this job I have enough to look after my family'. I wouldn't be talking to my agent about football.’ Pulis added: ‘I can’t speak for Sterling and I can't speak for the agent as I haven't dealt with that but the one thing I have said about Saido, he has been fantastic here. ‘There's been a real change in his attitude, his commitment to everything we've tried to do has been brilliant.’

Pulis has spoken with his striker about pre-season plans . Berahino is expected to be involved with England at under 21 Euros . 21-year-old has made no secret of desire to play in Champions League . Berahino shares same agent as Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling .


Boss Nigel Pearson insists Leicester have no margin for error in their relegation fight as they aim to close the gap to safety. The Foxes go to West Brom on Saturday bottom of the Barclays Premier League and six points adrift from the survival line. A 2-1 win over West Ham last weekend gave them a first victory in nine league games and ended a run of just two points from a possible 24. Leicester manager Nigel Pearson (fourth right) talks to his squad during a training session . Pearson watches on at the Foxes training ground as he plans their route to Premier League survival . But with eight games left Pearson knows that they cannot afford any further slip ups. 'Our form has to take that upward trend in terms of results. We don't really have a buffer to fall back on, we have to perform here on in,' he said at his pre-match press conference. 'The players have dealt with an awful lot of disappointment but strived to get the performances. That has been the case for the majority of the season. What we have to do now is change those performances into wins. 'People tell me about other people's run-ins but you will survive or not due to your own results. 'We have to keep it in our hands for as long as possible and we need to win more games. That's the reality of the situation but we're capable of it.' Leicester still have to play relegation rivals Burnley and Sunderland and host QPR on the final day, giving Pearson hope. He said: 'We have to play a lot of sides around us. It's nice to have games where we can directly affect their end to the season but the flip side is they will see it the same way. 'It depends how those fixtures go, you win those and the picture changes. What we have to do is manage the swings in mood which will be in the public domain. 'You win a game or lose a game and there's a shift in terms of how people perceive it.' Matthew Upson (centre) is back in contention for the game with West Brom after returning from injury . Dean Hammond (centre) is also back in training with Leicester following a calf problem . Matt Upson (Achilles) and Dean Hammond (calf) are back in training and are available for the trip to The Hawthorns, where Pearson spent time as coach between 2004 and 2006. The Baggies are holding Jeff Astle Day to honour their former striker and raise awareness for the Jeff Astle Foundation. Former Albion striker Astle died in 2002 aged 59 from a brain condition normally linked to boxing after heading heavy leather footballs during his career. And while Pearson believes it is a fine cause he insisted the Foxes cannot get caught up in the day. He said: 'In many ways it's for recognition for an outstanding player and person who has achieved an awful lot for the football club. 'It's great West Brom have decided to make an occasion to celebrate Jeff Astle's contribution and raise awareness of these types of head injury issues. 'But for us, unfortunately, we have to recognise we are part of the day but our own plight is the most important thing. 'What we can't do is get carried away in the occasion.'

Leicester City travel to West Brom in Premier League on Saturday . Nigel Pearson's side have eight games to save top-flight status . Currently sit bottom of the division six points from safety . Foxes boss Pearson admits they have no margin for error .


Barcelona's Brazilian star Neymar was left fuming after being substituted by Luis Enrique during the 2-2 draw at Sevilla on Saturday night, according to reports in Spain. Neymar, who scored his side's second goal with a curling free kick, was replaced with the score at 2-1 and 15 minutes to play. Sevilla then scored a late equaliser, and Neymar 'can't understand why he is subbed so much' reports Spanish paper Sport. Neymar's dispute with Luis Enrique features prominently in Spain, while they look ahead to the Madrid derby . The paper points out that the forward has been replaced in 15 of his 34 matches this season, with only Ivan Rakitic and Andres Iniesta being substituted more. With Barcelona still top of La Liga, and challenging for a treble, the paper points out that the club will need to be united in the final run-in. Elsewhere in Spain the attention is focused on the Madrid derby in this week's Champions League quarter-finals. Marca claims that the game is 'like a final', with the two teams playing out a repeat of last year's showdown in Lisbon, while in AS, Real defender Pepe calls for intensity and humility. In Italy the headlines are dominated by Lazio, who moved above their city rivals Roma into second place in Serie A with a win over Empoli . AS also look ahead to the Champions League quarter-final, while in Italy the focus is on Lazio's win .

Neymar was taken off with Barcelona 2-1 up against Sevilla . The Brazil captain was visibly angry, and Barca went on to draw 2-2 . Neymar has been replaced 15 times in 34 games this season . CLICK HERE for all the latest Barcelona news .


Jeremy Peace, the West Bromwich Albion chairman, will only sell the club to a buyer who will invest money on and off the pitch. Tony Pulis has held conversations with Peace and is adamant the chairman wants to ensure his legacy is maintained. Peace is open to selling West Brom for £150million as long as a suitable custodian can be found by July, and Pulis would want immediate talks with any new chairman over his position. Tony Pulis is adamant that chairman Jeremy Peace will sell the club to someone who wants to invest heavily . Peace has fielded enquiries from consortia in America, China and Australia with some parties already having a tour of the club's training ground facilities. Pulis said: ‘If he is going to sell it then he will sell it to people who want to invest in the club. That’s the main point he’s made to me. ‘The fact he’s put it up for sale and everybody knows now if someone comes in and he does a deal I would imagine there will be bolt-ons to invest in the club. Peace has put the club up for sale for £150million but only to someone who would be a suitable owner . ‘At the end of the season if they change ownership then obviously you have to sit down and speak to the people, that’s very, very relevant to me. ‘But I think that Jeremy is a massive West Bromwich Albion supporter, he’s been here a long time and he’s done a lot of very, very good things for this football club, so I don’t think he wants to see his legacy blown away.’ West Brom were thrashed by fellow strugglers Queens Park Rangers at the Hawthorns last weekend .

Tony Pulis says Jeremy Peace will only sell club to right person . West Brom are available for £150m as long as a suitable buyer is found . Pulis' relegation-threatened side face rivals Leicester at the Hawthorns . CLICK HERE for all the latest West Brom news .


Arsenal target Raheem Sterling is a more talented player than Gunners star Mesut Ozil, according to Michael Owen. The former Liverpool forward made the claim before Brendan Rodgers' men lost 4-1 at the Emirates on Saturday - a game in which Ozil netted his side's second goal. Owen's opinion drew criticism on social media but the ex-England man has refused to back down, even after Sterling's disappointing display in north London. Raheem Sterling, pictured against Arsenal, is a better player than Mesut Ozil according to Michael Owen . Ozil bends home Arsenal's second goal in their 4-1 win against Liverpool at the Emirates on Saturday . BT Sport pundit Owen believes there should not be a debate about whether Sterling is more talented than Ozil . Asked whether Sterling could fit into Arsene Wenger's team before Saturday's game, Owen told BT Sport: 'I would think so, they would find some way. 'He's better than Ozil, I think he's probably better than [Danny] Welbeck.' But even after watching Ozil shine and Sterling struggle in Arsenal's win against his former club, Owen repeated his claim that the wantaway forward is a superior player. Owen wrote on his Sportlobster account: 'It seems my claim that Sterling is a better player than Ozil made some headlines today. Is there a debate? Not even close.' Sterling listens to his manager Brendan Rodgers as Liverpool train at Melwood on Monday . Ozil celebrates after netting only his fourth Premier League goal of the season against Liverpool .

Arsenal are interested in signing Liverpool's Raheem Sterling this summer . The 20-year-old has rejected a new £100,000-a-week deal at Anfield . Michael Owen believes Sterling is more talented than Mesut Ozil . Adrian Durham: Sterling would be earning the same as Balotelli if he signed £100,000-a-week deal at Liverpool... that's the real issue here . Durham: Arsenal only turn it on when the pressure is off . The German scored in Arsenal's 4-1 win against Liverpool on Saturday . CLICK HERE for all the latest Arsenal news .


Robert Lewandowski returned to haunt his former club as Bayern Munich earned a narrow victory against Borussia Dortmund at the Signal Iduna Park on Saturday. Poland international Lewandowski scored the winner on his first visit back to the club he left on a free transfer last summer as Pep Guardiola's side restored their 10-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga. Lewandowski spent four years at Dortmund, leading them to back-to-back league titles during that period, and offered only a muted celebration when he pounced to give the visitors the lead 10 minutes before half time. Robert Lewandowski beats Marcel Schmelzer to the ball to head Bayern Munich in front against Dortmund . The Bayern players celebrate in front of the travelling supporters after claiming a narrow victory . Roman Weidenfeller saved Thomas Muller's original effort bu the ball fell kindly to the Poland striker . Weidenfeller complains to his defence as Lewandowski makes his way to his feet after scoring . Dortmund (4-2-3-1): Weidenfeller; Sokratis, Subotic, Hummels, Schmelzer; Bender, Gundogan (Mkhitaryan 79); Blaszczykowski (Kagawa 67), Reus, Kampl (Ramos 67); Aubameyang . Subs not used: Kehl, Langerak, Ginter, Dudziak . Booked: Aubameyang, Schmelzer . Bayern Munich: Neuer; Benatia, Boateng, Dante; Rafinha, Lahm (Thiago 69), Alonso, Schweinsteiger (Rode 58), Bernat; Muller (Gotze 79), Lewandowski . Subs not used: Pizarro, Gaudino, Reina, Weiser . Booked: Schweinsteiger, Alonso, Rode . Scorer(s): Lewandowski 36 . Bayern suffered a shock 2-0 home defeat by Borussia Monchengladbach before the international break but responded to get their title charge back on track against their former championship rivals. Dortmund were unbeaten in their last eight domestic matches, sitting comfortably in mid-table after rescuing a desperate-looking situation earlier this year that saw Jurgen Klopp's side bottom of the table. But they were behind after 36 minutes against Bayern. Thomas Muller was released down the left channel but his low drive, after bursting towards the box, was parried by Roman Weidenfeller. Unfortunately for the Dortmund goalkeeper the ball rebounded invitingly for Lewandowski to beat Marcel Schmelzer to the ball and head home from 12 yards. Dortmund offered a spirited fightback  as the hosts applied much of the second-half pressure, but the Bayern defence held firm although they had Manuel Neuer to thank after saving brilliantly from a Marco Reus free kick in the closing stages. As his team-mates roared wildly around him Lewandowski did not celebrate against his former club . The goal did, however, send the Bayern bench into raptures although Pep Guardiola remained calm . Goalscorer Lewandowski holds off the challenge of Dortmund's Kevin Kampl . The teams line up to observe a minute silence for the passengers of the Germanwings flight that crashed .

Bayern Munich beat Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in the Bundesliga on Saturday . Robert Lewandowski opened the scoring vs his former club on 36 minutes . Dortmund applied much of the second-half pressure but were kept at bay . Bayern restored their 10-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga .


Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla is among a number of players to have offered support to Villarreal defender Mateo Musacchio following his gruesome leg injury. The Argentinian fractured his fibula and dislocated his left ankle during his side's 1-1 draw at Getafe in the Primera Division on Sunday. The 24-year-old underwent successful surgery hours later in Madrid. Villarreal's Mateo Musacchio runs for the ball near the touchline with 13 minutes left to play . As he closes in on the ball and the sliding opponent, his right foot is bent back, breaking his ankle . Musacchio crumples to the ground in agony after the horrendous ankle break . No recovery time has been set by the club but Musacchio is expected to be sidelined for at least six months. Cazorla, who played with Musacchio during his time at Villarreal, tweeted: 'A lot of best wishes to my friend Mateo, I hope it's not too serious. 'Wishing you all the strength for the recovery.' Villarreal's Argentinian striker Luciano Vietto also tweeted: 'We share your pain and sadness, we will be supporting you all the way. 'A lot of strength Mateo!!!' The Spanish Footballers' Association (AFE) said in a statement: 'All the strength in the world to Mateo. Santi Cazorla played with Musacchio for Villarreal before joining Arsenal, tweeted support for the defender . Cazorla wrote: 'A lot of best wishes to my friend Mateo, I hope it's not too serious' 'We will await your return to the pitch as soon as possible with the rest of your Villarreal team-mates.' Musacchio, who joined Villarreal from River Plate in 2009, has been limited to just 12 La Liga starts this season because of injuries. The South American recovered from a torn hamstring back in January. 'I would have traded losing by a big margin than seeing Mateo getting injured this way,' Villarreal coach Marcelino said on his club's official website. 'It's a difficult time for everyone. 'It's a very serious injury and it's a real misfortune. 'I didn't think Mateo's injury would be as serious as it is but when I approached the stretcher and I saw that there was so much blood, I got frightened. 'We hope we can all help him in his recovery. 'It's a sad time for us.' Musacchio joins Villarreal captain Bruno Soriano on the sidelines, who is out of action until May with a knee injury sustained earlier this year.

Mateo Musacchio fractured fibula and dislocated ankle during Getafe draw . Santi Cazorla tweeted: 'A lot of best wishes to my friend Mateo' Arsenal midfielder Cazorla and Musacchio played together at Villarreal .


Bayern Munich holding midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger is doubtful for their German Cup quarter-final against Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday after picking up an ankle injury. Schweinsteiger limped off with an ankle problem in their 1-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga on Saturday but Bayern said it was not too serious after early concerns for a player ravaged by injuries. 'He luckily did not suffer any serious injury on Saturday but his ankle is still a bit of a problem. Schweinsteiger did not train on Monday. His participation on Wednesday is in doubt,' the club said. Bastian Schweinsteiger suffered an ankle injury during Bayern Munich's weekend win over Dortmund . Schweinsteiger will miss Bayern's German Cup quarter-final against Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday . Bayern said that Schweinsteiger's injury wasn't serious but he will miss the Cup tie on Wednesday . The Germany captain missed the opening four months of the season with a knee injury, only making his first start in December. Bayern, chasing a repeat of their 2013 treble-winning season, saw their injury list grow even longer on Monday with reserve goalkeeper Tom Starke ruled out for four weeks after suffering an ankle ligament tear in training. Bayern's players celebrate in front of their fans at Signal Iduna Park after their 1-0 win . Robert Lewandowski heads home the winner against his former club on Saturday night . The Bavarians, top of the league and through to the Champions League last eight where they face Porto later this month, are already without top scorer Arjen Robben, David Alaba, Holger Badstuber and Franck Ribery. Ribery, on his way back from an ankle injury, also missed training on Monday.

Schweinsteiger will miss DFB-Pokal tie with Bayer Leverkusen . Germany captain suffered ankle injury in 1-0 win over Borussia Dortmund . Bayern confirmed the injury wasn't serious but he didn't train on Monday . Reserve goalkeeper Tom Starke ruled out for four weeks . Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery are also on the Bayern injury list .


Bayern Munich's treble ambitions are put to the test on Wednesday in the German Cup quarter-final when their injury-hit side travel to in-form Bayer Leverkusen. The Bavarians, runaway leaders in the Bundesliga and through to the Champions League last eight where they face Porto later this month, are eager to repeat their 2013 treble-winning campaign as the season enters its final stretch. A 1-0 league victory at Borussia Dortmund on Saturday despite a string of absences was crucial to boost their confidence ahead of the Cup game, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer said. Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer celebrates after the 1-0 win against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday . Neuer made a spectacular in injury time from a Marco Reus free kick to ensure the three points . 'The 1-0 victory was a very good sign for us,' Neuer, who made a spectacular save in stoppage time to protect their slim lead, said. 'We have to try to carry this momentum to our game at Leverkusen.' Bayern were without wingers Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben as well as David Alaba, who tore a knee ligament and will be out for about two months. They were also missing defender Holger Badstuber, forcing coach Pep Guardiola to overhaul his team and play a new-look midfield with captain Philipp Lahm, Xabi Alonso and Bastian Schweinsteiger. 'I would have liked to have played differently but I have to adapt the system to my players,' said Guardiola. Neuer advances from his line to beat Reus to the ball during the clash at Signal Iduna Park . Manager Pep Guardiola is having to content with a number of injuries ahead of the German Cup quarter-final . Guardiola, in his second season in charge after winning the domestic double last year, will have the chance to slightly alter his system again with midfielder Thiago Alcantara making a comeback on Saturday after more than a year out injured. The addition of the skilled Spain international is undoubtedly a major asset ahead of Leverkusen, who crushed Hamburg SV 4-0 in their league game on Saturday. Ribery could also be back in time for Wednesday's game, providing Guardiola with more punching power. Leverkusen, eager to remain in the top four to secure yet another Champions League campaign next season, have won their last five Bundesliga games without conceding a goal as they hit top form. Former Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcantara made his first appearance for a year against Dortmund . 'We want to advance but we know it will be hard,' Leverkusen's Gonzalo Castro said. 'We know what we can do and we can play with confidence. Our counter attacks are extremely fast and good. After our 4-0 win and five straight victories our confidence is very high.' In another all-Bundesliga clash Borussia Dortmund, finalists last season, take on Hoffenheim on Tuesday eager to edge closer to the final and a possible European spot after a dismal league showing this season. VfL Wolfsburg face Freiburg and Borussia Moenchengladbach take on third-tier Arminia Bielefeld in the other two quarter-finals.

Bayern Munich won 1-0 in Dortmund in the Bundesliga on Saturday . A Bundesliga, Cahmpions League and German Cup treble is on for Bayern . Pep Guardiola's side face Bayer Leverkusen in the Cup quarter-final . Manuel Neuer looking for Bayern to build momentum in cup on Wednesday .


Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has confessed his academy players are not ready to step into his first-team squad, hinting that City may look to cherry-pick the best youngsters from their top-flight rivals. In the week that Liverpool’s Raheem Sterling spoke about his unwillingness to agree a new contract at Anfield, Pellegrini’s comments suggest that City may look to invest heavily in other teams’ homegrown talent this summer. Premier League regulations require clubs to carry at least eight homegrown players, which can include youngsters who have spent three of their formative years at an English club. FA chairman Greg Dyke is pushing for the figure to be raised to 12. Manuel Pellegrini says the academy players at Manchester City are not ready for the first team . Pellegrini's assertions may mean City buy English players like Raheem Sterling to reach homegrown quotas . Everton's England international midfield player Ross Barkley has also been linked with City . But the lack of suitable candidates emerging from Patrick Vieira’s academy means City’s only option will be to buy in the bulk of their quota, with the defending league champions also linked with Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere and Ross Barkley of Everton. City’s current group of home-grown players will be reduced in the summer when Frank Lampard departs and it could be further depleted if James Milner, who wants guarantees of more regular first-team football, opts to leave. Coincidentally, Liverpool is Milner’s most likely destination should he leave but the prospect of Sterling moving in the opposite direction has been increased to the point that bookmakers rate City his most likely destination next season. City’s youth system has come under fire in recent seasons for its lack of productivity. Belgian defender Dedryck Boyata, who has started nine league games in nearly six years at City, is the only former academy player anywhere near first-team contention. Pellegrini said: ‘We must be patient with the academy. Young players are important. Maybe it’s not so easy for young players, especially at big clubs, to play in the first team, with the professional squad. But I’m sure in the future we will have very important players coming from the academy. James Milner could leave City in the summer with Liverpool a potential destination . Arsenal midfield player Jack Wilshere has also been linked with a transfer to City . Defender Dedryck Boyata (right) is City's only academy player near first-team contention . ‘But it’s important to have years of working the same way. But you never know. Maybe some talented young players can do it soon.’ Sterling would fit the bill, if his impasse at Liverpool proves unsolvable, although Pellegrini refused to comment directly about the Liverpool and England forward. Pellegrini said: ‘I think it’s important for big clubs to bring in the best players, that’s the most important thing. If they’re all good players, of course I agree with the quota. All the big leagues — especially the Premier League — need the best players to play.’ City’s homegrown quota is made up of Boyata, Lampard, Milner, Joe Hart, reserve keeper Richard Wright and Gael Clichy, who qualifies from his years spent with Arsenal. They are joined by four academy players — Thierry Ambrose, George Glendon, Jose Angel Tasende and Jose Angel Pozo, although Spaniard Pozo is the only one to have been near the first team this season. A number of young City professionals, including John Guidetti at Celtic, PSV’s Karim Rekik and Marcos Lopes with Lille, are on loan and may be brought back to plug some of the holes next season, although a big investment in English talent via the transfer market seems the only option. Frank Lampard helps make up City's homegrown quota but is leaving for New York at the end of the season . Patrick Vieira is overseeing the City academy's production of youth and homegrown players . Striker John Guidetti is on loan at Celtic but could return to meet quota regulations next season . Meanwhile, Pellegrini is not in action until Monday, when he takes his team to Crystal Palace, and with Chelsea in an apparently commanding lead at the top, the City manager admits his side face eight cup finals. He said: ‘I hope we can do it. We have to play eight finals from now until the end. We will see the way we play. I hope the way we finish against West Brom is the way we must continue. ‘It is not easy to make a clear analysis because they play with one player less. I hope in these eight games we continue playing that way.’

Manuel Pellegrini believes his youth players are not ready for the first-team . His homegrown quote will be depleted when Frank Lamapard leaves . Pellegrini may lose James Milner, forcing him to invest in home talent .


Gary Caldwell admitted his first taste of management was 'crazy' following Wigan's battling 2-2 draw against Fulham. The Latics may be heading for relegation but they proved they are ready to go down fighting after twice coming from behind to snatch a point at Craven Cottage. Caldwell, at 32 the youngest boss in the league, only replaced the axed Malky Mackay on Wednesday and must have feared the worst when his side conceded after just three minutes to Ross McCormack's strike. Gary Caldwell admitted his first taste of management was 'crazy' following Wigan's battling 2-2 draw . Wigan's Jason Pearce (right) is congratulated by Pennant (left) as he scores the second equaliser for his side . A stylish Jermaine Pennant free-kick hauled Wigan level, only for a stunning long-range effort from Matt Smith put Fulham back in front. But Jason Pearce's 69th-minute effort, when he tucked in a corner at the far post, earned the Latics a point. 'I have just said to the players that I feel very proud of them considering we only had two days to work,' said former Latics skipper Caldwell. 'It's crazy, absolutely crazy. An all-consuming job. But I loved every minute of it and can't wait for the next one. I've had a lot of managers texting me saying 'welcome to the madhouse' and I can see what they mean.' A point lifted Wigan above Millwall, who they face on Tuesday, on goal difference but both teams are seven points adrift of safety. Matt Smith scores Fulham's second goal to restore their lead against Wigan at Carven Cottage on Friday . Smith slides to his knees as he celebrates putting the home side back in front in the Championship match . Caldwell has not been put in charge to perform a miracle, but he still insists there is plenty to play for. 'We'll try to win every game,' he added. 'There's 12 points to play for and we'll try to win every one and see what happens. 'It's going to be a long process to get the club to where we want it to be. But tonight was the way we want to play, that's how this club got success.' Fulham should now be safe, having edged nine points clear of the drop zone, but they were booed off by sections of the home support. Boss Kit Symons' honeymoon period seems to be over, as his decision to take off goalscorer Smith after an hour was met with a chorus of 'you don't know what you're doing'. Fulham captain Scott Parker (right) is hassled for the ball by Wigan's Gaetan Bong (left) at Craven Cottage . The ever industrious Parker (left) dribbles away from the challenge of Wigan's Kim Bo-Kyung (right) 'Matt was shattered,' he explained. 'He's had a lot of football recently and we needed some fresh legs.' Symons has the air of a manager who cannot wait for the season to come to an end. 'It's glass half full, glass half empty,' he added. 'We're a point closer to safety and come the end of the season it might be the point that keeps us in the division. 'It's been a tough season, to put it mildly, and realistically it was probably always going to be like that. When we stay up I certainly won't be doing cartwheels, but I'll breathe a sigh of relief.'

Fulham 2-2 Wigan Athletic: CLICK HERE to read the match report . Latics came from behind twice to stun the Cottagers . Gary Caldwell admitted his first taste of management was 'crazy'


Gary Hooper came off the bench to snatch a dramatic stoppage-time winner to keep Norwich City on track for automatic promotion in the Sky Bet Championship after Neil Lennon's battling Bolton came within minutes of gaining a point. Former Celtic star Hooper's goal sparked jubilant scenes on the Canaries bench in contrast to the dejection of his one-time Parkhead boss Neil Lennon. Indeed, Hooper had been a transfer target for Lennon earlier in the season so his winning goal was a double blow for the Ulsterman. Gary Hooper celebrates after earning Norwich three points with a stoppage-time winner against Bolton . Former Celtic striker Hooper is mobbed by his team-mates as Norwich remained second in the Championship . Bolton: Bogdan, Vela, Dervite, Ream, Moxey, Bannan, Walker (Janko 87), Feeney, Gudjohnsen (Danns 82), Heskey, Le Fondre . Subs not used: Lonergan, M Davies, Trotter, Rochinha, McCarthy . Booked: Walker, Moxey . Scorer(s): Le Fondre . Norwich: Ruddy; Whittaker (R Bennett 71), Martin, Bassong, Olsson, Tettey, Howson, Dorrans, Hoolahan (Grabban 57), Redmond (Hooper 66), Jerome . Subs not used: Rudd, E Bennett, O'Neil, Odjidja-Ofoe . Booked: Bennett . Scorer(s): Dorrans 9, Hooper 90+ . Referee: James Adcock . Graham Dorrans gave the Canaries an early lead as his right-footed free-kick deflected off Josh Vela into the net, but Adam Le Fondre looked to have rescued a point and extended Bolton's unbeaten run to four games. Instead, Hooper lobbed keeper Adam Bogdan - as the Wanderers defenders switched off - to score an invaluable goal. Lennon had promised his side would spoil a few parties in the remaining games of the season with Brantford and Bournemouth coming up in the next few weeks. That looked to be the case until Hooper's strike made it five wins in the last six meetings between the teams. Norwich made the perfect start with Dorrans' deflected free-kick after Vela took down Nathan Redmond on the edge of the area. The Canaries should have doubled their advantage six minutes later as Sebastien Bassong rose highest at a corner but cleared Bogdan's crossbar by some distance. Hooper lobs the ball over Adam Bogdan to spark jubilant scenes on the Canaries bench . Former West Brom midfielder Graham DOrrans celebrates after giving the visitors the lead on Saturday . And the visitors were in total control when Wanderers drew level totally against the run of play. It was so one-sided manager Lennon was poised to bring on Neil Danns to shore up his midfield. Instead, youngster Tom Walker, who had been guilty of delaying a cross moments earlier, learned his lesson. His flashing centre from the left picked out Le Fondre inside the six-yard box and the on-loan Cardiff City striker, back in the side after missing the Easter Monday trip to South Wales, finished with ease. Walker continued to prove a threat to the visitors' defence with his elusive running and was harshly booked for a foul on Wes Hoolahan. Liam Feeney shot narrowly wide from another Walker cross that fizzed beyond three static Norwich defenders before the Canaries rediscovered their composure. Top scorer Cameron Jerome, whose double won the reverse fixture at Carrow Road last October, brought a smart save out of Bogdan while the Hungarian international needed treatment after punching away another dangerous-looking Dorrans free-kick. Norwich striker Cameron Jerome heads towards goal during the clash at the Macron Stadium . The second half was much more competitive and Wanderers were more of a match for their high flying visitors. So much so that Neil brought on Lewis Grabban after 57 minutes for Hoolahan. And Grabban made an immediate impact, bringing out a save from Bogdan before Tim Ream cleared off the line from first-half scorer Dorrans. However, Bolton had their moments going forward too with Le Fondre trying cheekily to chip John Ruddy while Alex Tettey cleared off the line after Dorian Dervite narrowly failed to connect with Walker's corner. Neil's intention's were clear and with 20 minutes left had made his full set of substitutions with Hooper replacing Nathan Redmond and Steven Whittaker going off for Ryan Bennett. The visitors were incensed they did not get a penalty when Russell Martin's cross hit Dean Moxey on the hand. But any ill luck was cancelled out in injury time as hot shot Hooper slotted his winner.

Norwich beat Bolton 2-1 at the Macron Stadium in the Championship . Graham Dorrans gave the visitors the lead inside 10 minutes . Adam Le Fondre drew Neil Lennon's side level after 18 . Gary Hooper won the game for Norwich in the closing moments . Norwich remain second ahead of Watford on goal difference .


Gary Neville has hailed Manchester United as a team that is getting ever closer to being 'the real deal' after a dominant 4-2 derby victory over City at Old Trafford on Sunday. Louis van Gaal's side took a firm grip on third place as they skipped four points clear of their arch rivals in fourth after going behind to an early goal from Sergio Aguero, who also scored a late consolation. After recent wins over Tottenham, Liverpool and now City, Neville was impressed by his former club's performance as a whole ahead of next  week's clash with Premier League leaders Chelsea. Marouane Fellaini and Ashley Young celebrate their combined efforts to put Manchester United in the lead . Fellaini headed home United's second goal getting on the end of a cross from man of the match Young . Goal-scorer Juan Mata and United boss Louis van Gaal show their delight at the end of the Manchester derby . 'I think they're getting so confident now,' he said of United, who claimed the win with goals from man of the match Ashley Young, Marouane Fellaini, Juan Mata and Chris Smalling, while Michael Carrick pulled the strings from the base of the midfield. Neville said coming into games against Spurs, Liverpool, City and Chelsea, United could have considered seven points a good result. 'They've got nine already - so that's a fantastic three performances,' he says. 'Against Spurs, you were asking the question, are they the real deal? But Spurs were poor that day, they were flakey. So then they go to Anfield and really make you sit up because that is a tough place to play no matter how Liverpool play. Young enjoyed some fortune as his commitment to get in front of his man saw him score the equaliser . City were at sixes and sevens as United took control of the match after struggling in the first 15 minutes . 'Then to come here today, especially with City starting well and going a goal up, that was a proper performance they've put in out there today.' Fellow pundit Niall Quinn declared United's performance 'the best  I've seen since the glory days of (Sir) Alex Ferguson.' Neville added: 'City have been beaten in the areas of passion, hunger and fight, but they were tactically done as well out here today. 'They couldn't handle Manchester United's position on the pitch. It wasn't just a case of Manchester City coming here and being out-fought, they were out-played.'

Manchester United beat Manchester City 4-2 at Old Trafford on Sunday . Gary Neville praised United's recent performances against big clubs . He said 'that was a proper performance they've put in out there today' Niall Quinn said it was United's best performance since Sir Alex Ferguson .


England picked up their first title on the Sevens World Series this season after beating competition leaders South Africa 21-14 in the final of the Tokyo tournament on Sunday. Phil Burgess, Charlie Hayter and Tom Mitchell scored the tries in the final for the English, who bounced back from a thumping group stage defeat to Fiji on Saturday to win a first title since the Wellington Sevens in Feb. 2013. 'I am unbelievably proud of this team. It's a huge effort and we are so grateful to deliver this title,' skipper Mitchell said after victory at a wet Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Ground. England's  James Rodwell (left) celebrates with his team-mates following their final victory in Tokyo . England defeated championship leaders South Africa 21-14 in the decider of the Sevens Word Series event . The England victory is their first since February 2013 and puts them fourth in the series so far . The 22 points moved them onto 100 and ahead of Australia into the fourth and final Olympic qualifying position available from the series. Further spots are available for next year's Rio de Janeiro Games via regional qualifiers . South Africa still lead the way after collecting 19 for the runners-up spot to move onto 129, four clear of Fiji with only two rounds left in the series in Glasgow and London next month. The Fijians, winners of the last two tournaments in Las Vegas and Hong Kong, picked up 17 points in Tokyo after edging Canada 21-19 to finish third. Phil Burgess streaks away to score England's first of three tries in their triumph in Japan . South Africa's Cecil Afrika (centre) kicks on the run as rain stream down during the Tokyo Sevens final . The Fijian's hat-trick bid was ended by the South Africans in a nervy, error-strewn semi-final that the Blitzbokke took 7-5. New Zealand, winners of 12 of the 15 Sevens World Series titles and reigning World Cup sevens champions, endured a disappointing week in the Japanese capital, suffering a first ever loss to Canada in the quarter-finals. The 19-15 defeat sent them into the second tier Plate tournament, which they won after beating France in the last four and then Scotland in the final after Dylan Collier's try in the last play of the game. The 13 points keeping them third on 120. Tom Mitchell needs all of his strength to get to the line as South Africa's Werner Kok tries to pull him up . Mitchell holds off Kok as he just makes the line for England's third try in the important seven-point win . Trans-Tasman rivals Australia dropped to fifth after a weekend to forget in Tokyo. After losing to Portugal and Scotland in group play on Saturday, they then suffered a heartbreaking defeat to the United States in the lung-busting final of the third tier Bowl event. Perry Baker scoring the match ending try in extra time as the ever-improving Americans prevailed 17-12. Portugal won the Shield after edging Argentina 12-7 but last-placed Japan closed the gap on the Iberians to eight points in the battle to avoid relegation after picking up 10 for making a first Cup quarter-final.

England beat South Africa 21-14 in the final at the Prince Chichibu ground . England hadn't won a tournament since Wellington in February 2013 . Phil Burgess, Charlie Hayter and Tom Mitchell scored England's tries . Win puts England fourth in series into the final Olympic qualifying spot .


They’ve won seven on the spin in the Premier League and made Liverpool look like relegation candidates as opposed to Champions League rivals during Saturday’s first-half slaughter. So why are Arsenal destined to sign off from another campaign celebrating a top-four finish and not a serious title challenge? Finish second they may well, but never have they entered the race for the top-flight crown. This term they are simply the best of the ragged rest, each with their flaws which have made the title tussle something of a ‘no contest’. Arsenal celebrate after a fine strike from Alexis Sanchez put them 3-0 up against Liverpool on Saturday . This is the most impressive team the Gunners have boasted since the dying embers of the Invincibles side of more than a decade ago. They have pace, power, energy and invention in attack – and that is just Alexis Sanchez. At the other end they have hit upon an understanding which has seen them not concede more than once in the league since New Year’s Day. But their failure to marry all of those components over the course of an entire campaign has cost them, again. This year, however, is a reverse of previous seasons. More recently we have built up Arsene Wenger’s side as title challengers until the arrival of spring, only for it all to fall flat. Arsene Wenger watches on as his side cruise to a stylish win over their rivals for a top-four spot . This time, it is a stuttering start which has undermined their progress. By mid-October they had already dropped 13 points. There was talk of Wenger not even seeing the season out, let alone extending his stay into next term and beyond. But is the long-serving Frenchman finally about to hit upon a team which, given the manner in which they’re finishing this campaign, could well be installed as title favourites come August? Should Wenger strengthen in key areas then they would surely be vying for such status at the head of the market. He needs no more Mesut Ozils, no more Santi Cazorlas or Tomas Rosickys. Rather, he needs a new spine and characters with backbone. Mesut Ozil celebrates his goal on Saturday as the German World Cup winner continued his fine form . A central defender, central midfielder and centre forward need to arrive if this current vintage is to avoid going the same way as those who have promised so much yet delivered so little in recent years. Interestingly, Wenger’s policy of chasing the best British talent could be on the way out. Yes, there was the capture of Danny Welbeck last summer, but that was more opportunistic than a long-term pursuit. Welbeck, in turn, has netted just four league goals and watched from the bench as Liverpool were torn apart. So, too, did Theo Walcott. He has the mitigation of injury, of course, but does Wenger trust him to remain fit for an entire campaign? Likewise, Jack Wilshere. Teams which win titles have players who, in short, play. Jack Wilshere (centre) watches on from the stands on Saturday after missing out through injury . Theo Walcott (left) has struggled since returning from a year-long injury lay-off . Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Aaron Ramsey have both started just 17 of 31 league games. For the latter, a return of four goals is a sorry show given the 16 he plundered last season. So while there is the promise of better times ahead, issues remain for Wenger to sort. You feel he is finally on the cusp of something exciting at the Emirates. But then we have been there before and it ultimately ends in the celebration of failure. Wenger needs to think big this summer, or else goodwill from frustrated fans could be in short supply.

Arsenal moved up to second with 4-1 win over Liverpool on Saturday . Gunners are bucking their recent trend of ending the season badly . But they had already dropped 13 points in Premier League by mid-October . Signing a defender, midfielder and forward may make them title favourites .


Kenny Miller fears Rangers' promotion bid could be derailed by the Ibrox side's rollercoaster run of form. Gers suffered the first defeat of new boss Stuart McCall's six-game reign on Thursday night as they slumped 3-0 at Queen of the South. It was an especially flat display after the high of recent Scottish Championship victories over Hearts and Hibernian. Kenny Miller fears Rangers' promotion bid could be derailed by the Ibrox side's rollercoaster run of form . The Light Blues - who remain behind the Easter Road side in third place on goal difference - now have five games left, starting with Raith on Sunday, to leapfrog Hibs and spare themselves the effort of playing two extra ties in the play-offs. Finish third and they could even be sent back to Palmerston - where they have now lost twice this season - for another testing clash with Queens, provided James Fowler's side see off Falkirk in the race for fourth. But the worry for striker Miller is that Gers' lack of consistency could wreck their chance of a Premiership return. The 35-year-old said: 'Last night was a reminder that we have not turned the corner and that there's a lot of hard work still to be done. Miller (centre) looks dejected as his Rangers side slumped to a 3-0 defeat at Queen of the South . 'It was a performance that summed up out season a little bit. That 'consistency' word has come up a lot this year. 'We seem to have a couple of good performances and then complacency kicks in and we take our foot of the gas. 'If we go back three games to the Hibs result, I don't think anyone could have seen that coming. Fast forward three games and I don't think anyone could have seen the result last night coming. 'We have to nail down that consistency and get to a level of performance that we can pretty much guarantee every week. Rangers had recently secured victories over Scottish Championship rivals Hearts and Hibernian . 'Might this inconsistency come back to haunt us in the play-offs? It could do, yes. 'There is no point winning 1-0 or 2-0 at home and losing 3-0 away - that means you are out. 'It's about getting that level and balance right. We need to get back to where we were at against Hibs and in the first half against Hearts, where I thought we were superb.'

Rangers lost first game under new boss Stuart McCall on Thursday . Slumped to disappointing 3-0 defeat at hands of Queen of the South . Had recorded recent victories over Hearts and Hibernian .


An Australian man who walked free from an Indonesian prison after nine months plans to celebrate his season by heading to the beach. Jake Drage sang a children's song for reporters as he left  a West Java jail nine months after he was put behind bars following a crash that killed a woman who was riding a motorcycle with her teenage daughter. The 23-year-old surfer, who was taken into custody in June last year, said he cannot wait to get back in the water. Jake Drage sang a children's song for reporters as he left a West Java jail nine months after he was put behind bars . 'The first thing I do when I get home, after seeing family, I'm heading straight to the beach, heading straight to the ocean,' Drage said, according to The West Australian. 'I've never been held down for so long before, . 'I never planned on coming to jail and I don't plan on going back.' He said his time in prison was 'like a yo yo, all up and downs', and that his release had not sunk in yet. Drage was jailed after a crash that killed a woman who was riding pillion on a motorcycle with her teenage daughter . The 23-year-old surfer, who was taken into custody in June last year, said he cannot wait to get back in the water . 'The first thing I do when I get home, after seeing family, I'm heading straight to the beach, heading straight to the ocean,' Drage said . 'I'm sure once I'm past immigration and I get back on home soil, arrive at the airport and see the family and friends, I definitely think it will sink in then,' he said. 'The first thing I do when I get home, after seeing family, I'm heading straight to the beach, heading straight to the ocean.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Jake Drage released after nine months in an Indonesian prison . Drage was jailed following a crash that killed a woman riding a motorbike . 23-year-old West Australian man sang children's songs as he was released . Says one of the first things he'll do is go surfing after getting back home .


Tennis champion Novak Djokovic has apologised to a startled ball boy and his parents after the Serbian player startled him during his final showdown with Andy Murray. Djokovic started shouting at his backroom team after he lost the second set of the Miami Open to Murray. During the tirade, Djokovic grabbed a towel from the shocked youngster who was caught up in the crossfire. Umpire Damien Dumusois issued Djokovic a warning for the way he shouted at his support team, but there was no reprimand for the manner in which he treated the ball boy. Tennis champion Novak Djokovic issued an apology to a ball boy he frightened during the Miami Open . Djokovic shouted at his backroom team when the ball boy got caught up in the cross fire . Djokovic grabbed a towel from the ball boy, pictured, who seemed startled by the loud confrontation . However, following his victory, Djokovic posted a message on his Facebook page apologising to the youngster and his parents. He said: 'It's probably been the best start to a season aside from 2011 that I had in my career, and I can't be more grateful for all the support I'm getting from you guys and I'm enjoying my time playing and competing and hopefully I brought a smile to your faces. 'Also I want to reflect on a bad moment that happened in the final against Andy when I lost the second set. I yelled to my camp and my box in frustration . 'I saw the replay. Unfortunately a ball boy was in the middle of it and I really, really feel sorry and regret that he was there. There was absolutely no intention whatsoever to hurt him or scare him in any kind of way. I sincerely hope he forgives me. I really apologise.' Djokovic then extended his apology to the boy's parents. 'I do care about children a lot right now and I look at it in a much different way,' he added. 'So I want to apologise to his parents for this situation as well. As a father I wouldn't wish that something like this happens to my son. 'Again I sincerely hope you can forgive me and that we can move on. Unfortunately sometimes the emotions get the better of you. 'Also times as a professional athlete you learn how to control them and how to stay composed and mentally strong. But on a hot day like this when Andy was playing well and pushing all my buttons it wasn't easy.' The youngster was standing between Djokovic and his backroom team during the heated exchange . Djokovic, right, defeated Britain's number 1 Andy Murray, left, following Sunday's final in Miami .

Novak Djokovic lost his cool during Sunday's final showdown in Miami . Djokovic started shouting at his backroom team after Andy Murray won set . The Serbian tennis champ asked the youngster for his 'forgiveness' He said he got emotional because 'Andy was playing well'


Every one of Africa's 54 member countries will vote for Sepp Blatter in next month's FIFA presidential election, the continent's soccer boss said on Tuesday, referring to the 79-year-old Swiss as 'dear Sepp.' In front of Blatter's three challengers, Issa Hayatou, president of the Confederation of African Football, promised unanimous support in his speech to open CAF's annual congress in Cairo. 'Africa is comfortable having you. Africa stays with you,' Hayatou said, according to a transcript of his comments provided by CAF. Sepp Blatter (left) has received the full backing of African football's president Issa Hayatou (right) Blatter was also present, and made a speech to the African football leaders in his role as FIFA president. Although the individual countries don't have to follow Hayatou's directive, Africa is expected to be a strong base of support for Blatter. With 54 of the 209 FIFA member countries eligible to vote in the presidential election in Zurich on May 29, Africa is the largest of the six continental confederations. The praise Blatter received in Egypt contrasted to his uncomfortable reception at the UEFA congress last month, when his presidency was criticized by the three candidates standing against him, and some European officials. Luis Figo (left) and Michael van Pragg (right) are opposing Blatter and have chosen to run for presidency . Hayatou, a FIFA vice president and now an ally of Blatter after failing to unseat him in 2002, made an apparent reference to that UEFA congress on Tuesday. 'Dear Sepp,' he said. 'I want to reiterate that here in Africa you are never on some strange or hostile territory. You shall always be at home here, on this continent.' Blatter is seeking a fifth term in office to extend a reign that began in 1998. FIFA vice president Prince Ali bin al-Hussein of Jordan, Dutch FA head Michael van Praag, and former Portugal international Luis Figo are standing against him. Prince Ali bin al-Hussein is the third challenger and the FIFA vice-president was in attendance in Zimbabwe . Those three challengers won't be addressing CAF delegates like they did at UEFA's congress. CAF said the three were attending merely as 'observers.' In his speech, Blatter reflected on Africa's achievements during his time as FIFA president, including the continent's first World Cup in South Africa in 2010. He said Cameroon's Hayatou, who has led CAF for 27 years despite allegations of corruption and an official reprimand by the IOC, was a 'pillar' of African football, according to CAF.

Issa Hayatou, president of African football, said they will support Sepp Blatter in his bid to for fifth term as FIFA president . All 54 African FIFA members have agreed to back Blatter in the election . Luis Figo, Prince Ali Bin al-Hussein and Michael van Pragg have chosen to stand against the 79-year-old and become the new president .


For all the problems that David Moyes had during his year at Manchester United, you wouldn't associate his teams with defensive frailties and a lack of organisation at set pieces. And since taking over at Real Sociedad Moyes has enhanced his reputation as a manager who brings, if nothing else, solidity. In his 21 La Liga games to date Sociedad have conceded just 29 times, climbing from the relegation when Moyes took over, to an extremely comfortable tenth place. Mikel Gonzalez diverts a corner past his own goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli who fails to punch it away . Atletico Madrid celebrate after going two goals ahead after just 10 minutes, killing the match as a contest . Antoine Griezmann (left) is congratulated by Fernando Torres, but didn't celebrate against his former club . Atletico Madrid: Oblak; Gimenez, Miranda, Siqueira, Gamez; Suarez, Tiago, Koke, Turan (Niguez 81 mins); Griezmann (Gabi 90), Torres (Jimenez 61) Subs not used: Ansaldi, Bernabe, Cani, Hernandez . Goals: Gonzalez (OG) 2, Griezmann 10 . Booked: Turan . Real Sociedad: Rulli; Gonzalez, Elustondo, Yuri, Zadldua; Bergara, Ruben Pardo; Zurutuza (Finnbogason 74), Canales (Agirretxe 74), Xabi Prieto; Castro (Granero 81) Subs not used: Martinez, Hervias, Estrada, Zubikarai . Yet, on Tuesday night, Sociedad showed none of the qualities usually associated with their manager, capitulating inside 10 minutes against the Spanish champions. By the time Antoine Griezmann struck the hosts' second goal, lifting the ball over the hapless Geronimo Rulli after the keeper had parried Koke's shot straight to the Frenchman, Atletico could have been four up, and the game was all but over. Arda Turan had already seen his volley hit the post after being left totally unmarked from a free kick, before Mikel Gonzalez diverted the resulting corner past his own keeper after little more than 90 seconds. Soon after Griezmann narrowly failed to connect with a header after yet more shocking set-piece defending, and the former Sociedad man also came close to tricking his way through the visiting defence, only to be denied by a last-ditch tackle. David Moyes looks on as his team showed uncharacteristic defensive frailties at the Vicente Calderon . Mario Suarez holds off Sociedad forward Sergio Canales as Atletico took control and never relinquished it . Atletico Madrid's Turkish star Arda Turan, who struck the post early on, takes of Gorka Elustondo . Against a team who hadn't conceded a single goal in their previous four games, it was suicidal. In response Moyes' side produced next to nothing. Chory Castro brought a save from Atletico's Slovenia keeper Jan Oblak which was comfortable enough, while Sergio Canales swung a leg at a dropping ball from inside the area, only to see it fly well wide. That was about all they managed until a free kick from one-time QPR midfielder Estaban Granero forced Oblak into his first stretching save with three minutes to play. The champions, on the other hand, without looking particularly good, continued to threaten, helped repeatedly by Rulli and his defenders, who seemed desperate to offer chances out of nothing. Mario Suarez was given the freedom of the penalty area from another corner, but couldn't make contact with his volley, before Rulli misjudged a wayward Koke cross, allowing it to land on his crossbar. Torres worked hard and offered a foil for the talented Griezmann before being replaced after an hour . Diego Simeone calls for more for his team as they kept their La Liga title defense alive . The Argentine stopper also flapped at a cross, allowing Guilherme Siqueira an opportunity from close range, but the full-back saw his shot deflected wide. The win means Atletico are only two points behind city rivals and Champions League quarter-final opponents Real Madrid, although Carlo Ancelotti's side have a game in hand, and the defence of their title is not yet over. Diego Simeone was able to rest Fernando Torres for the final 30 minutes, after the former Liverpool and Chelsea striker had run hard, without much success, alongside Griezmann. His side's season will be defined in the coming weeks, while Moyes' early successes in Sociedad means Real's campaign has already reached a successful conclusion, with survival assured. But his side's defending will nonetheless have hurt the former Manchester United manager.

Mikel Gonzalez own goal puts Atletico Madrid ahead inside two minutes . Antoine Griezmann adds second after goalkeeping error . Champions could have scored more as Real Sociedad offer very little .


Cristiano Ronaldo brought up another landmark in his glittering career with his 300th goal for Real Madrid in his 288th game during the 2-0 La Liga victory at Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday. The 30-year-old becomes only the third player in Madrid's history to achieve the feat and a breakdown of the statistics demonstrate just how relentless a goalscorer he is. Sevilla appear to be his favourite opponents, with Ronaldo netting an astonishing 18 times against them since signing for Madrid in 2009. Cristiano Ronaldo (left) scores his 300th goal for Real Madrid in the 2-0 win at Rayo Vallecano . Ronaldo has netted 161 of his goals in the Santiago Bernabeu and 61 between minutes 76 and 90 . Ronaldo (left) enjoyed his most prolific season in 2011-12 with 60 goals but could surpass the total this season . His record against Madrid's biggest rivals is also not to be understated, as he has scored 15 times each against Atletico Madrid and Barcelona. The pair are second on the Portugal international's Madrid hit-list, alongside Getafe. The stats also show Ronaldo's impressive eye for a goal in the final moments of a game, netting an astonishing 61 times between minutes 76 and 90. Over half (161) of his Madrid goals have been scored at the Santiago Bernabeu and he has also found the net 60 times in the Champions League for the club. His most prolific season to date is 2011-12, where he struck 60 goals but Ronaldo could be on track to surpass that total this year. Ronaldo (left) celebrates goal number 300 in his Madrid career with team-mate Gareth Bale . Ronaldo has scored 60 Champions League goals for Madrid and won the competition with the club in 2014 . He has notched 48 strikes already, with eight games remaining in La Liga and at least two in the Champions League, where he will look to continue his impressive scoring spree against city rivals Atletico. Of those eight matches in the league, Ronaldo will face Sevilla again and Getafe, as well as Malaga and Celta Vigo, who he has scored 13 and 12 against respectively.

Cristiano Ronaldo's 300th goal for Real Madrid came at Rayo Vallecano . The Portugal man reached the landmark in only 288 games . He has scored more goals against Sevilla than any other opponent . READ: Ronaldo still some way behind Pele in the one-club scoring charts .


Former footballer Gary Mabbutt was left with a 30inch scar following a five hour operation to save his leg. The ex-Tottenham and England star, 53, was rushed to hospital after waking up at 1am to find that the leg had gone cold back in 2013. Mabbutt's diabetes had led to a clogged artery in the limb and doctors warned him it was 'touch and go' on whether the leg would have to be amputated. Scroll down for video . Horrific scar: Gary Mabbutt has been left with a 30inch scar on his left leg after his diabetes caused an artery to be clogged requiring emergency surgery to save the limb . He was treated at King's College Hospital in South East London, undergoing an emergency five-hour operation. Surgeons were required to replace the main artery in his left leg with a vein and needed 112 staples to seal the horrific wound. Mabbutt, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 17, will not be able to play football again, leaving his dream of becoming a manager in tatters. As he is unable to train with players on the pitch, he has been forced to turn down roles in coaching. Emergency procedure: Surgeons were required to replace the main artery in his left leg with a vein and needed 112 staples to seal the horrific wound . The Spurs legend has spoken for the first time about the agony he went through and says he hopes to raise awareness of his condition. Speaking to The Sun, he said: 'When they talked about battling to save my leg, I realised I was helpless. As a diabetic you know complications can occur. But you think "It's never going to happen to me". It is vital to educate everyone with diabetes how to take care of themselves. If you have anything unusual with your feet, tingly toes, blisters, see your doctor.' In 1982, father-of-two Mabbutt became the first diabetic ever to play for England and captained Tottenham to FA cup glory in 1991. Former star: Mabbutt is pictured, left, lifting the FA Cup while playing for Tottenham in  1991 . He was unaware that his diabetes had triggered peripheral arterial disease, clogging up the blood vessels in the legs. Every year, surgeons perform around 8,000 amputations on diabetics in the UK - but campaigners say four out five could be prevented. Amputations cost the NHS £650million a year - and up 80 per cent of the amputees die within five years. Diabates sufferers are entitled to annual eye tests as they are are 20 times more likely to develop sight problems, but Gary Mabbutt wants a similar programme to apply to feet. Experts say millions of diabetics are unaware their condition could lead to foot problems and agree regular checks could save limbs.

Former footballer woke up in middle of the night to find his leg was cold . Mabbutt diagnosed with diabetes at 17 but complications had developed . He required the main artery to be replaced and almost lost his left leg . The ex-Spurs star wants to raise awareness of dangers relating to diabetes .


We reveal how to get the enviable physiques of the stars. This week: Jennifer Aniston's arms. Jennifer looking toned at the 2015 Vanity Fair Oscar Party hosted by Graydon Carter . In a Versace gown at this year's Oscars, Jennifer Aniston showed off her well-toned arms. The 46-year-old works out three times a week with her long-term trainer, Mandy Ingber. Sessions include 20-25 minutes of spinning, followed by 45 minutes of yoga. On other days, she might do anything from 40 minutes cycling to ten minutes each of core work, spinning and running. When she stays at a hotel, Aniston takes 3.6kg weights with her. She says exercise, plus meditation, is her 'ultimate stress reliever'. Her PT sessions include 20-25 minutes of spinning, followed by 45 minutes of yoga . What to try: . The medicine ball overhead press is great for upper arms. Ideally, use a weighted medicine ball, but a football is fine for beginners. Hold the ball in both hands above your head, arms extended straight but elbows not locked. Keeping arms vertical, lower the ball behind you by bending the elbows. Go as far as 90 degrees, then straighten the arms. Repeat 12-15 times and do two sets.

Jennifer Aniston, 46, showed off her well-toned arms at the Oscars . She works out three times a week with her long-term trainer, Mandy Ingber . What to try: The medicine ball overhead press is great for upper arms .


Police are searching for a vandal who damaged a car park barrier while showing off his weightlifting moves. The bizarre incident was caught on CCTV and shows a man trying to lift the exit barrier at Nottingham train station's multi-storey car park, damaging it in the process. Briitish Transport Police have released a CCTV image of the man in the hope he will be recognised by members of the public . The bizarre incident was caught on CCTV and shows an unidentified man trying to lift the exit barrier at Nottingham train station's multi-storey car park, damaging it in the process . In the image the man, who is wearing a dark jumper, dark trainers and blue skinny jeans, appears to grimace as he lifts the metal barrier on his shoulders. It is not clear if the wanted man was attempting to avoid a parking payment or merely indulging in an unusual form of vandalism. PC Michael Wearmouth, who is investigating the incident for British Transport Police, said: 'The man repeatedly lifted the barrier up and down causing substantial damage. 'Do you know the man pictured? If you are the man in the image, please come forward and speak to us' The incident occurred on the ground floor of the multi-storey car park at around 6.55pm on Saturday, March 14. Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference B9 MSUB of 24/3/15. MailOnline is also trying to identify the man. Do you know him? If so, email keiligh.baker@mailonline.co.uk. The incident occurred at Nottingham train station's (pictured) car park on Saturday, March 14 .

Man caught on CCTV using weightlifting move to push car park barrier . Not clear if he was trying to avoid paying ticket or just showing off . British Transport Police have released his picture in bid to identify him . Do you know the weightlifter? If so email keiligh.baker@mailonline.co.uk .


Diego Simeone and Carlo Ancelotti both hailed Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak, who made a string of excellent saves to keep Real Madrid at bay. The Champions League quarter-final first leg clash at the Vicente Calderon finished goalless and that was largely thanks to an outstanding performance from the Slovenian goalkeeper. He made a phenomenal save to deny Gareth Bale in the fourth minute and another fantastic stop kept James Rodriguez from opening the scoring in the first half. Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak denies Gareth Bale an early goal at the Vicente Calderon on Tuesday . Oblak gets down low to keep out a shot from Real Madrid's James Rodriguez in the second half . 'They are one of the best teams in the world at defending. Oblak did a great job,' said Real Madrid boss Ancelotti. 'I think, above all in the first half we deserved more than 0-0. Real Madrid's first half was fantastic, we played very well, with personality. 'The second half was different because they pressured us more and we had difficulty keeping possession. 'The result was not good, but we have gained confidence from that game, from what the team showed. The result is the best of the 'worst' results. 'They are little details, we had opportunities and everyone did great work in attack, but we didn't finish well. We have to repeat this performance in the Bernabeu next Wednesday. Carlo Ancelotti wants his side to repeat their performance at the Bernabeu next week despite failing to win . Cristiano Ronaldo is thwarted in his attempt to open the scoring against rivals Atletico Madrid . 'After this game there is still no favourite. It's as it was before we started. We have to repeat the game we played in the first 45 minutes. With two draws, you can still go through.' Simeone was also impressed with the performance of Real Madrid in the first half, but more so with that of his goalkeeper. 'In the first half the opponents were good. Oblak was great, especially for Bale's chance. 'And the best thing was the reaction we had. Any other team that had been damaged as we were in the first half would have ended up conceding. 'But the game became much closer to what we had imagined at the start.' Simeone also did not want to put the blame on Sergio Ramos for an incident which saw Mario Mandzukic left with a bloodied face. Sergio Ramos (left) catches Mario  Mandzukic with his elbow, cutting the Atletico striker's face . Diego Simone refused to blame Ramos for the clash, insisting that the Real defender didn't mean it . The two players clashed when challenging for the ball and Ramos' elbow caught the Croatian forward. 'Mandzukic had a hard game and competed against Ramos and Varane who are extraordinary players,' said Simeone. 'The hit with Ramos happened without him meaning to, so let's speak nothing more of it.' The teams meet again on Wednesday April 22, and Simeone, whose side have not lost to Ancelotti's in any of the seven clashes this season, is convinced that it will be a great game. 'We will go there with the idea of playing as well as we can,' he said. 'It will be a different game. It will be the classic game that we all like to play.'

Jan Oblak kept a clean sheet as Atletico drew 0-0 with rivals Real Madrid . Carlo Ancelotti admitted that Oblak 'did a great job' to keep his side out . Diego Simeone was also impressed with his goalkeeper's performance . Simeone refuses to blame Sergio Ramos for clash with Mario Mandzukic . Second leg of their Champions League quarter-final takes place next week .


When Danielle Jones agreed to marry her boyfriend Darrel, she knew it would be a day she'd never forget. But her wedding day took an even better unexpected twist - when her hero Gary Barlow turned up to sing her a ballad. The Take That star stopped by the couple's wedding reception in Berkshire and sung the band's song 'A Million Love Songs' as a wedding gift. Scroll down for video . Never forget: Gary Barlow shocked Take That superfan Danielle Jones, 33, and her husband Darrel by dropping in at her wedding reception to sing 'A Million Love Songs' The maid of honour, Kirsty Miles, tweeted her excitement after the wedding on Good Friday . Gary stopped by the couple's wedding reception and the bride even had a chance to sing with her idol . The singer had promised to go along to the reception at the Beaumont Estate in Old Windsor after orchestrating the surprise over Twitter with Mrs Jones's bridesmaids. Afterwards, the Take That superfan said: 'I'm still on cloud nine, I can't believe it happened.' Bridesmaids Kirsty Miles and Becky Young had contacted the singer three months ago to ask the singer to perform at their best friend's wedding. It came after the 44-year-old announced on Twitter  that he would surprise three wedding parties throughout the year, and urged fans to send him suggestions. The pair then started a Twitter campaign using the hashtag #getgarytodanswedding. Barlow then sent the bride a message saying he could not make her special day. She and the other bridesmaid Becky Young had started a Twitter campaign to get the singer at the wedding . But he secretly replied to the bridesmaids saying 'let's do this' - on the condition that they kept it secret from Mrs Jones. Ms Miles told getreading said: 'It was the hardest thing keeping it from Danielle when she was clearly so gutted by it.' Mrs Jones, who got married on Good Friday, added: 'I was so overcome with emotion I was having difficulty breathing. I nearly collapsed, I was screaming, I couldn't believe it! Mrs Jones and her friends are seeing Take That (pictured) several times this year, including in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Milan, Italy . 'After pulling myself together I went over to him, gave him a hug and he carried on with the song. 'We then had loads of photos taken, he spoke to my mum, my husband Darrel and my maid of honour Kirsty.' The first thing Mrs Jones knew about it was when the DJ started playing the Take That song and she saw Barlow standing on the dance floor. Mrs Jones and her friends are seeing Take That several times this year, including in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Milan, Italy.

Danielle Jones' bridesmaids started campaign to get Barlow at her wedding . He replied saying he would come - but kept it secret from the 33-year-old . Singer turned up at reception in Berkshire and sung 'A Million Love Songs' Mrs Jones said: 'I'm still on Cloud Nine - I just can't believe it happened'


A South Carolina mother of four died over the weekend after collapsing moments after completing a half marathon. Amanda Peake Glover was a devoted youth ministry teacher and choir singer who'd only one month before had completed the Myrtle Beach marathon with her brother. Glover was also a co-owner of an Elgin fitness center, leaving her mourning friends and family all the more shocked at her sudden death following Saturday's race. Collapsed: South Carolina mother-of-four Amanda Peake Glover died Saturday after running the Palmetto Half Marathon . Her husband, Benji, is, no doubt, the most shocked of all. Amanda's friend Ashley Blocker says Benji was just behind his wife of nine years in the Palmetto Half Marathon. 'He was four minutes behind her,' Blocker told WLTX. 'I'm sure he thought well I'll catch up with her at the finish line and she'll gloat about how she beat me and we'll go about our day, you know. It makes you hold people a little bit tighter and not take things for granted.' Blocker met Glover at Fitness 535 in Columbia, which Glover co-owned. 'I watched her mother her four children], and if I'm half the mother she was, then I'll be doing a really good job,' Blocker said. Amanda was a fitness lover and a month before her death had run a full marathon with her brother, who said they crossed the finish line hand-in-hand. Fitness lover: Amanda was a fitness lover who co-owned a fitness center and only a month before her death had run a full marathon . Shockiong: Her brother Josh said he and his sister had finished the Myrtle Beach Marathon hand-in-hand just a month ago . 'It hasn't completely hit me yet,' Josh Peake said. 'I feel like i'm going to wake up from a dream. She ran the race of life.' While the exact cause of Amanda's death remained unclear, the circumstances were eerily commonplace. Amanda and just crossed the finish line when she simply collapsed. She was rushed by ambulance to a nearby hospital but was soon pronounced dead. She is survived by her husband Benjamin, daughters Hope, Reagan and Caroline and son Walker. 'It hasn't completely hit me yet,' Amanda's brother Josh Peake said. 'I feel like i'm going to wake up from a dream. She ran the race of life' Left behind: She is survived by her husband Benjamin, daughters Hope, Reagan and Caroline and son Walker .

Adam Leheup ran Fitness 535 in Columbia, South Carolina and was a devoted youth ministry teacher and worked as a property manager . Her husband Benji was just minutes behind when she collapsed and was rushed to a hospital, where she died for reasons that remain unclear . Glover was an avid fitness fan who, only just a month ago had run the Myrtle Beach marathon .