Tiger Woods was pictured giving his children hugs during the second day of practice at Augusta National Golf Club ahead of The Masters 2015. He was also joined on the course by long-term skier girlfriend Lindsey Vonn. The former World No1 has returned to action after taking a break from golf to recover from a series of niggling injuries and rediscover his form. The first practice session on Monday had been Woods' first public appearance for 60 days. Tiger Woods hugs his young children, Charlie (left) and Sam (right) during the practice round at Augusta . Woods' long-term girlfriend Lindsey Vonn (right) stands with Charlie as he warms up for The Masters 2015 . Despite now being placed at 111th in the World Rankings, Woods believes the hiatus has done him good and he is in the right shape to win the 15th major of his career. 'I felt like I had to get my game into a spot where I could compete to win a golf tournament,' he said. 'And it's finally there.' Woods has not won a major since the US Open in 2008 and the last of his four Masters wins was a decade ago, with the American only confirming on Friday that he would compete at Augusta this year. Woods has returned to action following a break from golf he took to work on his game and rediscover form . Vonn is flanked by Woods' children as she talks to Northern Ireland's Rory McIlRoy at Augusta on Tuesday .

Tiger Woods was joined on the course at Augusta National Golf club by his young children and girlfriend Lindsey Vonn . Woods has returned to action following a self-imposed break from the sport to work on his game and recover from niggling injuries . He is bidding to win the 15th major of his career at this year's Masters .


Pep Guardiola believes he has one of the world's best central defenders in Jerome Boateng as he faces up to an injury crisis ahead of Wednesday's German Cup quarter-final. Bayern Munich take on Bayer Leverkusen in the last eight on Wednesday and Guardiola will be without Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery, David Alaba, Javi Martinez and Tom Starke, while Bastian Schweinsteiger has also now been ruled out of the BayArena clash. Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Guardiola said: 'Schweinsteiger will not be match fit in time. Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola shouts instructions to his players against Borussia Dortmund . Bastian Schweinsteiger is one of a number of players ruled out of Bayern's German Cup clash . 'We only have 16 players available for Wednesday's game. But this is part of the game. It's my job to find a solution. 'Holger Badstuber is doubtful. I think he can train normally again and we will then have to wait and see how his body reacts. 'We are not looking for excuses, though. It will be a huge challenge for Bayern.' Despite concerns over the fitness of his squad, Guardiola was keen to praise the recent performances of Germany international Boateng . 'Boateng is incredibly important to us,' he said. I think he is one of the three best centre backs in the world at the moment.' Guardiola believes Jerome Boateng (left) is one of the top three centre backs in world football . Bayern's players celebrate after the final whistle following their 1-0 win against Borussia Dortmund . The Bayern boss also offered an apology to midfielder Mario Gotze, who was left on the bench for Saturday's 1-0 victory against rivals Borussia Dortmund. He said: 'I know that it was a sad moment for Gotze that he did not start against Dortmund. He is a great guy, though. Football is his life. 'He is one of the best players I have ever worked with and I am sorry that he could not play. But that was my decision.'

Bayern Munich face Bayer Leverkusen in the German Cup quarter-finals . Pep Guardiola has just 16 fit players to pick from on Wednesday night . Bastian Schweinsteiger, Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery all ruled out . Guardiola believes Jerome Boateng is one of the world's best defenders .


Defender Daryl Janmaat has admitted Newcastle got exactly what they deserved from their derby trip to Sunderland - nothing. The 25-year-old Holland full-back played the full 90 minutes of Sunday's 1-0 Barclays Premier League defeat at the Stadium of Light despite suffering a suspected tear in his calf muscle during the warm-up, but was unable to prevent the Black Cats running out winners as the Magpies slipped to a record fifth successive defeat in the fixture. Newcastle created little of note on another poor day for John Carver's men, and Janmaat was pulling no punches as he assessed the fall-out. Daryl Janmaat (left) has admitted that Newcastle United's performance in their Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland wasn't good enough and they got exactly what they deserved - nothing . The Holland full-back played the full 90 minutes despite a suspected calf muscle tear . Janmaat tries to get across and stop a cross from Sunderland's Steven Fletcher at the Stadium of Light . He told NUFCTV: 'It was not good enough. The first half was really poor, we were too negative, so it was not good enough. The second half was much better, but it still wasn't good enough. 'I wouldn't say we didn't give everything. What I can say is we were not good enough and everybody saw that Sunderland were better, especially in the first half. 'If you are not good enough, then most of the time, you lose.' Newcastle were simply not at the races as a Sunderland side motivated by new head coach Dick Advocaat dominated from the off, although they looked like making it to half-time unharmed before Jermain Defoe smashed home a stoppage-time volley which proved to be the tangible difference between the teams. Janmaat said: 'A goal in the last minute of the first half, it's always hard to concede it because you go into the dressing room with a bad feeling. If you go in at 0-0, you can be positive in the dressing room, but if you concede a goal in the 47th minute, then it's hard. Jermain Defoe scored the winning goal - a spectacular volley - on the stroke of half-time . Defoe's goal proved to be ample reward for Sunderland's dominance in the Tyne-Wear derby . The result moves Sunderland three points clear of the Barclays Premier League relegation zone . April 13 Liverpool (A) April 19 Tottenham Hotspur (H) April 25 Swansea City (H) May 2 Leicester City (A) May 9 West Bromwich Albion (H) May 16 Queens Park Rangers (A) May 24 West Ham (H) 'But they deserved to score in the first half because they had maybe 20 free-kicks and they were better than us, then normally you score a goal. Like I said, it was not good enough.' Defeat was greeted with fury by frustrated fans who have now seen Sunderland take 17 of the 21 points on offer in the last seven derby encounters. Indeed, the Black Cats have won just 17 of their last 75 league games, five of them against their neighbours, a statistic which provides a damning indictment of Newcastle's lack of progress on the field. The Magpies last week reported profits of £18.7million at a time when its recruitment policy has once again come under close scrutiny. Carver went into Sunday's game with only one recognised central defender and right-back Janmaat having to play in the middle with midfielders Ryan Taylor and Jack Colback operating as full-backs, and he was also without a proven Premier League striker in the 18. Newcastle United manager John Carver had to cope with a weakened defence following injuries . Janmaat gets stuck into a challenge with Sunderland's Steven Fletcher during the derby match . That selection crisis was due in part to suspensions for Fabricio Coloccini and Papiss Cisse and injuries to Steven Taylor, Paul Dummett and Massadio Haidara, as well as midfielders Cheick Tiote, Siem de Jong and Rolando Aarons, a casualty list which has served to expose the lack of depth in a squad assembled on a budget and made up largely of players sold a move to St James' Park as a stepping stone to bigger things. Owner Mike Ashley's tight financial constraints mean where the Magpies were once able to compete for big names - it was they who sparked the bidding war which ultimately led to Wayne Rooney's move to Manchester United from Everton in 2004 - they are now unwilling to do so even with clubs of a similar or lesser stature, and as a result, less able to do so on the pitch. Newcastle have made no secret of their view that the domestic cup competitions are unimportant, and European qualification very nearly ended in disaster during the 2012-13 campaign. Mid-table Premier League status and financial self-sufficiency remain the stated dual focus and as a result, disenchantment on the terraces has reached epidemic levels. It is against that backdrop that Carver is attempting to prove he is the man to replace Alan Pardew at the helm, but a run of two wins from 13 games represents a less than impressive audition despite the mitigating factors.

Sunderland beat a lacklustre Newcastle 1-0 in Tyne-Wear derby . Janmaat played the full 90 minutes despite suspected calf injury . The Holland full-back admitted performance wasn't up to standard . Black Cats have not taken 17 of last 21 point available in derby games .


Ahead of golf's first major of the year, where all talk is of whether Rory McIlroy can complete a career grand slam or how Tiger Woods' latest comeback will fare, Sportsmail's Derek Lawrenson will bring daily updates from behind the scenes at Augusta. World No 1 Rory McIlroy shields himself from the rain during a practice round at Augusta . VINTAGE POULTS! You gotta love Ian Poulter. Even after all these years, the Englishman could barely contain his excitement at driving down Magnolia Lane for the Masters. Only one problem. As he got out of the car, he realised he’d left one rather important item back at his rental home. His golf clubs. Englishman Ian Poulter was so excited to get started at Augusta that he forgot his clubs . CAN FLU-HIT HENRIK FLY? There is a reason why the phrase ‘beware the injured golfer’ has entered the sport’s lexicon. So who among the lame, sick and wounded currently playing down their chances is going to confound his own expectations this week? Listening to Swede Henrik Stenson, who’s just getting over a nasty bout of flu, he fits the bill. Henrik Stenson of Sweden looked less than impressed after coming down with a bout of flu . LOOK OUT FOR TIGER CUBS . Has Tiger Woods finally learned to look up and smell the azaleas? Not only will he play in the traditional par-three tournament for the first time in over a decade but sharing bag-carrying duties will be his two offspring, Charlie and Sam. Do you think there might be one or two photographers who will take an interest? Tiger Woods will be accompanied by his children when he plays the traditional three-par tournament . THE PIONEER GENE . Masters Tuesday saw the 80th anniversary of the most famous shot in the tournament’s history, the one that put the event on the map, when Gene Sarazen made his albatross on the 15th hole in the final round to edge out Craig Wood. Rory McIlroy will impress us all if he completes his career Grand Slam in more dramatic fashion than that. Gene Sarazen played the most impressive shot in the tournaments history with an albatross on the 15th . WAITING FOR SWEET 16 . A practice-round tradition at this grand old tournament is to gather around the beautiful par-three 16th hole and see which players are talented enough to skip their golf balls across the water and on to the green. So far, none has matched the amazing feats of Vijay Singh in 2009 and Martin Kaymer in 2012, whose shots not only reached the green but dropped into the hole. Martin Kaymer of Germany is one of two players to have holed after skipping off the water at the 16th . HAND IT OVER, SIR . As the patrons make their way through the admission gates to Augusta National, the plethora of signs listing the prohibited items offers reassuring confirmation of the list of priorities at the Masters. In order: No cellphones. No cameras. No knives. No weapons.

Season's first major, the Masters, tees off Thursday April 9 at Augusta . Ian Poulter forgot to bring his clubs ahead of his practice round . Tiger Woods' children will carry his bag during par three tournament . Henrik Stenson played down his chances after coming down with flu .


Per Mertesacker is not one to shy away from a verbal confrontation and the defender revealed that bringing back the 'arguing culture' to Arsenal was key to their upturn in results - following a number of heavy defeats. Arsene Wenger's side were thrashed 6-3 by Manchester City and 5-1 by Liverpool last season as they slipped from the top of the summit to a battle for the Champions League places. And Mertesacker, who last season was pictured remonstrating with Mezut Ozil, admits being embarrassed by the bigger teams was the catalyst for a number of much-needed confrontations. Per Mertesacker says Arsenal have brought back the 'arguing culture' after some heavy defeats last season . The central defender gives Mezut Ozil a piece of his mind following Arsenal's heavy defeat at the Etihad . He told the Independent: 'We tried to think what went wrong for us last season, especially when we got beaten heavily by those big teams. Very severe. 'It's always a big discussion. I mean, we are responsible for our performances. No one wants to have such a miserable day again.' 'You need that arguing culture. We lost that at times. It gets personal, and someone gets upset too quickly, but you have to face the truth and have a proper argument. That was normal 10 years ago and it has slightly changed. The German thinks confrontation can be vital for a teams mentality and it has helped Arsenal since . Aaron Ramsey (left), Jack Wilshere and Nicklas Bendtner of Arsenal stand dejected after the fifth City goal . 'We lost that a bit, what is the intention of argument. It's really important, not only in general, but in a footballer's life. It has to get louder sometimes. We need to discuss, to find solutions, to get everyone in one direction.' This season is very different, with an in-form Arsenal closing in on Manchester City in second and showing that they can compete for the Premier League title.# . Champions League chasing rivals Liverpool visit the Emirates on Saturday lunchtime, knowing that nothing less than a win is acceptable, after their disappointing home defeat to Manchester United. Arsenal face Liverpool on Saturday in a crucial clash for both sides for the Champions League places .

Per Mertesacker says that suffering embarrassing defeats hurt the squad . Losing heavily forced the players to bring back the 'arguing culture' Since then Arsenal have improved and could still finish second . CLICK HERE to follow all the live updates of Arsenal vs Liverpool . CLICK HERE to read all the latest Arsenal news .


Amir Khan has gone face to face with Adrien Broner ahead of a possible summer fight against the former lightweight world champion. Khan is expected to announce his next opponent imminently, with British rival Kell Brook set to feature on his agenda for a Wembley blockbuster next year. Amir Khan appears on the screen as Adrien Broner urges him to make their fight happen on FaceTime . Broner says, 'Let's get this money', in the short video of their conversation posted on Instagram . Khan hasn't fought since his win over Devon Alexander in December and has struggled to find an opponent . Broner has been relentless in his calling out of Khan since his comfortable win over John Molina Jr . But in the shorter term, the Bolton fighter has held talks with American Broner, who tweeted a video of himself and Khan talking via video. He included the hashtag #BronervsKhan. In the video, Broner tells Khan: ‘Hey, tell them to make the fight, man, let’s get this money.’ It’s by no means certain that the fight will go ahead, with Broner seemingly more keen than Khan. However, the Brit has previously encouraged talk of a bout against a man whose brash manner has made him a big draw in his homeland. Khan is targeting a fight at the end of May before breaking for Ramadan in mid-June, with a distant hope of facing the winner of Floyd Mayweather’s May 2 showdown with Manny Pacquiao. Brook remains the money-spinning fight on the agenda, with Khan having said on Tuesday that he wants to fight the IBF welterweight world champion at Wembley within 12 months. Broner posts a cheeky artist's impression of what he believes would happen should he fight Khan . Khan has said he would love to fight Broner in lieu of not being able to get in the ring with Floyd Mayweather . Khan says he has given his word to his next opponent and will be making an announcement 'very soon' Brook was due to fight in July but revealed he has brought forward his plans following his demolition of Jo Jo Dan last Saturday. He said: ‘I have told Eddie Hearn to get me out as soon as possible and I want to fight twice before the end of the summer, starting at the end of May.’

Adrien Broner posted a video of a FaceTime conversation with Amir Khan . The American has made it clear he wants to fight the Briton next . Khan said on Twitter that he had given his word to his next opponent . Kell Brook is another possible opponent but Khan wants to wait .


Down Augusta way they say the azaleas are in full bloom, which is more than can be said for England’s Justin Rose. A bruising Florida swing last month saw the Englishman fall outside the world’s top 10. For a player who has been virtually a fixture in the top five for the last three years it was certainly a dent to the ego, with the Masters now just around the corner. Rose’s solution to his miserable form — three missed cuts and a 55th-place finish at the Cadillac Championship in four PGA Tour starts — was the time-honoured one. For the past two weeks, the 34-year-old has spent long hours on the practice ground. Justin Rose hit 17 out of 18 greens in regulation and signed for a 69 at the Shell Houston Open . In the first round of the Shell Houston Open on Thursday there were encouraging signs his decline will prove temporary. Rose hit 17 out of 18 greens in regulation and signed for a 69, the same score as his playing partner, the ever- consistent Jordan Spieth. ‘It’s certainly a welcome return to the sixties, for it had been a while,’ said Rose, smiling. On a day when American Scott Piercy went round in 63 and Phil Mickelson enjoyed his best round in months with a 66, it was hardly surprising the only reporter waiting to talk to Rose was this one. But under the radar is never a bad place to be going to the Masters. The boom and bust years that characterised the first half of Rose’s career meant there was never going to be any feelings of panic following his unusually poor run in the Sunshine State. ‘There’s no doubt I lost my game there but the Florida swing can be unforgiving if you’re slightly off,’ he said. ‘Over the past two weeks I feel like I’ve done some good work and whether I finish well or not here I feel like I’m going in the right direction again. ‘Basically I was getting ahead of the ball at impact, and shots were going left or right, the irons were not solid and the new putter was not working. So we’ve corrected the faults and I’ve gone back to the old putter.’ Phil Mickelson enjoyed his best round in months with a 66 on Thursday . Does he pay much attention to the world rankings? ‘You notice, for sure,’ he said. ‘I’m very proud of the fact I’ve been in the world’s top five for practically the whole of the last three years. It’s a nice ego thing, so by the end of the year I’m hoping there won’t be any slippage. ‘But right now, I’ve got to focus on my game in the knowledge that the rankings change fast when you’re playing well. I’m in all the tournaments I want to be in, so there’s no need to worry on that score. Typically, your good years are built around four or five really good weeks, so you have to stay patient.’ He’d certainly love for one of those good weeks to be the next one. Rose paid a reconnaissance visit to Augusta last Monday and felt the same old thrill. ‘It’s such a treat to enjoy it when it is quiet, you still pinch yourself,’ he said. ‘I think if I’d had a crystal ball when I was 13 or 14 and it had said I’d get to play Augusta every year, I’d have been very happy with that.’ He’s certainly had his share of adventures during his nine appearances to date. Rose might be the only player in Masters history to have led or had a share of the lead after every round bar the last one. His best chance so far of finishing on top after 72 holes came in 2007, when he stood on the 17th hole tied for the lead only to run up a fatal double-bogey six. Paul Casey celebrated his last-gasp Masters invitation with two eagle threes in a fine round of 68 . ‘The Masters has probably been less on my mind this year because I am trying to find some form,’ he admitted. ‘But I think the fact I’ve had a number of great rounds there will always stand me in good stead. Regardless of what happens here, I feel comfortable on that course and know I can manage my game even if it’s not 100 per cent. You draw off the energy of the place.’ Mickelson has certainly done that over the years and perhaps the veteran lefty, a three-time Masters champion, is gearing himself up for another run at the green jacket. ‘It was a good start to the tournament and now I’m looking for three more good rounds,’ he said. 'This is a big week for me. I felt the game was close last week. The only thing missing was chipping and short game.' Paul Casey, like Mickelson another former winner of this event, celebrated his last-gasp Masters invitation with a fine round of 68 notable for two eagle threes. In the afternoon wave, Padraig Harrington and Lee Westwood both made good starts to play their first six holes in two under.

Justin Rose bounced back from Florida misery by carding 69 in Houston . Three-time Masters champion Phil Mickelson enjoyed return to form . Paul Casey celebrated last-gasp Masters invitation with fine round of 68 .


Lionel Messi has recovered from his injured foot and should be fit to start Sunday's La Liga match with Celta Vigo. The Argentina forward sat out both of his country's friendlies against El Salvador and Ecuador over the international break but, after arriving back in Barcelona on Thursday, was able to do some light running and stretching in training. Messi is ahead of schedule in his recovery and a statement on the club's website read: 'The inflammation of Messi's foot has improved and the player will attempt to join the rest of the internationals tomorrow.' Lionel Messi waves to fans during a light training session at Barcelona on Thursday . Messi had a light training session alongside compatriot Javier Mascherano as he recovers from foot injury . The pair returned to the Barcelona training ground on Thursday, 24 hours ahead of schedule . Messi and Mascherano stretch off during Thursday's training session, with Celta Vigo ahead on Sunday . April 5 Celta Vigo (A) April 8 Almeria (H) April 11 Sevilla (A) April 15 Paris Saint-Germain (A) Champions League Quarter-final, first leg . April 18 Valencia (H) April 21 Paris Saint-Germain (H) Champions League Quarter-final, second leg . The 27-year-old, who is the La Liga top goalscorer with 32 goals, sustained the blow to his right foot in last month's 'Clasico' win over Real Madrid. He trained alongside his compatriot Javier Mascherano on Thursday and both are expected to rejoin the rest of the squad in a more intense session on Friday. Barcelona's 2-1 success stretched their lead over their arch-rivals to four points with 10 matches remaining. Real host Granada on Sunday, seeking to recover from a poor run of three defeats in four across all competitions. Coach Luis Enrique will be making his first return to the Balaidos Stadium where he guided Celta to a respectable ninth-place finish last season. And there is evidence that Enrique's legacy has lasted, with the team currently in 10th, having recorded some surprise results this season, including a 1-0 win at the Nou Camp back in November. Neymar runs with the ball during Barcelona's training, closely watched by Xavi . Marc Bartra and Neymar during Barcelona's training session ahead of Sunday's trip to Celta Vigo . Thomas Vermaelen and Marc-Andre ter Stegen are put through their paces at the Ciutat Esportiva . They have also taken four points off defending champions Atletico Madrid this season - winning 2-0 at home and drawing 2-2 away. With their formidable attacking trio of Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez in top form, Barca have every chance of winning the Treble of league, Copa del Rey and Champions League. They face Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final and have been drawn against Paris Saint-Germain in the last eight of the Champions League. Barcelona in training ahead of Sunday's visit to Celta Vigo, where they will aim to extend their four-point lead . Barcelona currently enjoy a four-point advantage over Real Madrid at the La Liga summit . Defender Gerard Pique said he has enjoyed watching the explosive forward line from the back this season. 'I think the team still has the same philosophy but we have a lot of options,' Pique said. 'With the three great players we have up front, we haven't had to change the way we play but we do deliver a lot of balls to them because we know they will create scoring chances. 'We still dominate games. The style and philosophy remain the same. Barca always has to be the team that takes the initiative.'

Messi completed a light training session at Barcelona on Thursday . He has almost recovered from a foot injury sustained in Clasico with Real . Argentina star sat out friendly matches with El Salvador and Ecuador . Barcelona hoping to maintain La Liga lead against Celta Vigo . Luis Enrique's team remain on course for the Treble .


Rory McIlroy believes it is 'unthinkable' that he will not win the Masters at some point to complete the career grand slam. And the world number one has revealed how his final-round collapse at Augusta National in 2011 was the most important day of his career. McIlroy is looking to claim his first green jacket and become just the sixth player to win all four major titles after Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods. Rory McIlroy tees off at the Arnold Palmer Invitational golf tournament in Orlando on March 19 . 'For me now it's a career-long goal to win there to achieve something that only a handful of players have ever achieved,' the 25-year-old said in an interview with BBC Northern Ireland. 'There's something special I can achieve going into Augusta this year. You are a complete player if you can win every major because they are on different golf courses, different tests, different conditions. Not many guys have done it in history so to put my name there would be awesome. It would just be incredible. 'You feel the sense of what can be achieved but I can't think about that too much. I just have to think about trying to go out there and playing as best as I can and if I can do that hopefully my scores add up to a shot lower than anyone else's.' McIlroy has just one top-10 finish to his name in six Masters appearances, finishing joint eighth last year despite the embarrassment of being outscored by his marker in the third round. McIlroy is hoping to complete his grand slam of majors with a victory at Augusta later this month . But the 25-year-old cannot picture going through his career without slipping on at least one coveted green jacket. 'During my career, yes it's unthinkable,' he added. 'If I don't win it this year...either it's not the right time or it isn't your time. If I was to look back as a 60-year-old on my career and not have won a green jacket I'd obviously be very, very disappointed. 'And not just one. I feel like it's a course I can do very well at and a golf course I can hopefully win multiple times on. Obviously getting that first one is extra important and from there we can go on and maybe think about getting some others.' McIlroy held a four-shot lead going into the final round four years ago, only to collapse to a closing 80 and finish 10 shots behind the winner Charl Schwartzel. But he bounced back to win his first major title by eight shots in the US Open two months later, before adding wins in the 2012 US PGA and both the Open and US PGA last year. McIlroy is hoping to emulate the likes of Jack Nicklaus (above) by winning all four major titles . 'I think it was the most important day of my career,' he added. 'If I hadn't had the whole unravelling and say I just made a couple of bogeys coming down the stretch and lost by one, I might not have learnt as much. 'But for it all to come apart how it did I learnt an awful lot. I learnt so much about myself and my game and what I needed to do differently the next time I was in that position. 'Luckily it didn't take me long to get into a position like that again where I was leading a major and we know how that one played out. I was able to get over the line pretty comfortably.' McIlroy's extraordinary success last year came despite the distractions of calling off his wedding to Caroline Wozniacki and a legal dispute with his former management company which cost him millions of pounds when it was finally settled in February. McIlroy's extraordinary success last year came he called off his wedding to Caroline Wozniacki . And he hopes he can again use the golf course as his 'sanctuary' from the pressure and hype surrounding Augusta. 'The golf course was my sanctuary, it was where I could get away from everything and just not have to think about it for the four or five hours that I am out there and it helped. It really did,' he added. 'I was looking forward to getting to the course and playing and practising and I think it will be the same at Augusta because there will be so much hype and build up and talk about what could happen. 'I know I won't be able to wait until Thursday morning or afternoon and just get on the golf course and play golf. There is only so much you can talk about it and then you have to go out and try and play.'

Final-round collapse at Augusta National in 2011 was the most important day of career, McIlroy reveals . McIlroy has just one top-10 finish to his name in six Masters appearances . The Northern Irishman finished joint eighth last year .


Floyd Mayweather Snr has ducked the verbal jabs aimed at him from Manny Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach, insisting that 'he can say what he wants'. Ahead of Floyd Mayweather Jnr's eagerly-anticipated mega-fight with Pacquiao in Las Vegas on May 2, Roach has blasted the elder Mayweather and insisted that the Money Man would be far better off preparing for the May showdown with his uncle Roger. 'My whole thing is, Floyd's not going to have his best cornerman in his corner because there's no question in my mind that Roger is the better trainer,' Roach told Yahoo Sports. Floyd Mayweather Snr has refused to respond to criticism from Manny Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach . Roach has blasted Mayweather Snr calling him a 'terrible cornerman' ahead of the May mega-fight . Floyd Mayweather Jnr (right) gave fans an inside look of his private jet via his Shots account on Wednesday . 'Floyd got 90 percent of his wins with Roger working with him. Roger is way better. I think Floyd Snr is a terrible cornerman, I really do.' But Mayweather Snr stated on Wednesday that he would not be responding Roach's criticism and would be leaving his son to do the talking in the ring. 'He's not going to get under my skin now,' said Mayweather Snr of Roach. 'I've got the right thing to do now. I don't have anything to say. All I can say is that after this fight, he ain't going to be getting no more accolades or awards or whatever else they're giving out. He won't be a part of none of that. 'I still make the poems and all that stuff, but you know what? I'm going to kind of lay back with Freddie Roach. He can say what he wants. What I have to say to Freddie Roach is, if you want to talk, go for it.' Pacquiao is joined by his training entourage as he gets through an early morning jog on Wednesday .

Freddie Roach said Floyd Mayweather would be better off with his uncle . Mayweather Jnr will fight Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas on May 2 . The mega-fight is expected to generate a final purse of $300m . Mayweather uploads photo inside his private jet ahead of Pacquiao bout . Pacquiao turns on the charm for interview on Mario Lopez's Extra . CLICK HERE for all the latest Mayweather vs Pacquiao news .


We're suckers for athletes who play with a lot of heart. In Erik Compton's case, make that plural: hearts. He'll tee off this week at the Masters on his third. The 35-year-old veteran would rather be known for his golf than what he's had to overcome to earn a spot in the field. But Compton isn't shy about sharing his story, either. Erik Compton shares a joke with Jim Furyk during a practice round at Augusta ahead of the Masters . A first heart transplant at 12, then a second in 2008 after a major heart attack - what doctors call a 'widow-maker' - while driving home from a lesson with longtime coach and close pal Charlie DeLucca. He's been trying make up for lost time ever since. 'It's hard, but it's also a great thing,' Compton said on Monday after a practice round at Augusta National. 'There's two sides to me. I'm a competitor and a sports person, and I'm also the recipient of two transplants, and I know what that involves. So when you put them together, it does make a little bit of spaghetti in my mind sometimes you know.' 'I'll take it,' he added a moment later. It's not like Compton had a choice. He recovered from his childhood setback to become the No 1-ranked junior in the United States at 18, then a two-time All-American at Georgia. Compton, 35, is set to make his first appearance at the famous tournament this week . But he's spent most of the intervening years battling on minor league circuits, then becoming an advocate and spokesman for Donate Life, an alliance for national and local groups raising awareness about organ and tissue donation. In a nice bit of serendipity, his first appearance in the Masters coincides with Donate Life Month. But it's already a full-time campaign for Compton - he's been displaying the organization's logo on his shirt sleeve for a while. All of those efforts paid big dividends last year, when he carved out a spot on the PGA Tour and nearly stole the show at the US Open. His runner-up finish at Pinehurst nudged Compton and his story into the spotlight - and earned him an invitation to Augusta. It was something he'd longed to do since watching the tournament on TV as a kid. 'For me, it was a bit difficult to watch so many years and think, I'm never going to play in the Masters, just because of other issues that I've had. But yet, I just love to watch the Masters. So it's going to be weird,' he said to laughter, 'not watching the Masters this year.' Compton's wife, Barbara, and parents Peter and Eli won't be tuning in this year, either, making the drive up from Florida to watch Erik play in person. It's a well-deserved reward to be sure, since all of them had a hand in the push-pull climb toward the top of the golf hill. The veteran has had two heart transplants, but wants to focus on the week ahead, rather than his journey . After walking most his son's practice round, Peter Compton recalled how motivated Erik was, no matter how tough things seemed. Six months after Hurricane Andrew hit the Miami area in 1992, forcing the family out of their home and into temporary housing alongside a golf course near Doral, he took his son to play a few holes. 'We were in a cart and back then, he liked driving more than playing,' Peter recalled. 'But every time we'd leave the tee, he'd drive to his ball, and he was already hitting it 225 (yards) or so. So finally, about the third time it happened, I had to remind him, "Hey, stop here. Let me play MY tee shots!" 'He started playing junior tournaments in the area after that and a lot of the fathers would come up and tell me what a terrific story it was,' Peter said. 'But it wasn't long after that Erik started winning those tournaments. ... He could have sat back, said he'd been dealt a bad hand and did nothing. So I think that's what we're most proud of - he refused to give up.' Compton chats with his caddie as he walks the famous course ahead of his first ever round at the Masters . Compton tries to strike a delicate balance between those accomplishments and his aspirations. After a promising 2014 campaign on the big tour, his breakthrough performance at Pinehurst - only the second major he qualified to play. But Compton struggled this year, opening the 2015 season with a tie for 10th. He then wrestled with his driver and missed the cut in his next five tournaments. At the moment, most of his energy and focus are devoted to keeping the ball in play . 'I'm here in the press room at the Masters, and that's a great thing,' he said. 'But I don't look at myself as somebody who is a role model ... I look at myself as a golfer who has used golf as a means to maybe put some of the tough stuff that's happened to me in the past. Golf's been very therapeutic for me over the years. 'As I'm sitting here today,' Compton concluded, 'I view myself as somebody who is going to try to do the best he can to compete in the Masters.'

Erik Compton has had two heart transplants, the last in 2008 . Compton, now on his third heart, is ready to make his Augusta debut . The 35-year-old is also a campaigner for charity Donate Life . His first Masters appearance coincides with Donate Life Month .


Jason Dufner's marriage has landed in the rough as he agreed a divorce settlement from wife Amanda at the end of last month. Dufner and wife Amanda married in 2012 and were considered one of the golden couples of golf, but the pair separated in February and the divorce was finalised on March 31. According to the divorce settlement, filed on March 16 by Amanda, there had been an 'irretrievable breakdown of the marriage' and there was 'a complete incompatibility of temperament that the parties can no longer live together.' Jason Dufner looks dejected as he struggles on the golf course following a neck injury last year . Dufner and Amanda during happier times after he won the PGA Championship in 2012 . Amanda was regularly seen on the golf course supporting Jason Dufner . Dufner married Amanda back in 2012 - but separated in February 2015 . As part of the settlement Amanda has been awarded $2.5million (£1.8m) while Jason will keep two of the couple's houses. Dufner has struggled this season as he recovers from a neck injury which he picked up at the end of last year, and has posted just one top 10 finish in eight starts. His next scheduled start is the Masters which starts on April 6.

Jason Dufner and Amanda married in 2012 . Divorce settlement states there had been an 'irretrievable breakdown of the marriage' Amanda will receive $2.5m as part of the settlement while Jason will keep two houses .


Lydia Ko tied Annika Sorenstam's LPGA Tour record with her 29th consecutive round under par, shooting a 1-under 71 on Thursday at the ANA Inspiration. The 17-year-old Ko saved par on the par-4 seventh - her 16th hole - after hitting an approach shot through a gap in the trees. She hit a 6-iron to 18 inches to set up a birdie on the 158-yard, par-3 eighth and closed with a par on the par-5 ninth. The top-ranked New Zealander started the streak in the first round of her victory in the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship last year. Her worldwide streak is 32, counting the three rounds she played in her victory in the Ladies European Tour's New Zealand Women's Open this year. Teenage sensation Lydia Ko acknowledges the crowd after finishing the first round at the ANA Inspiration . The 17-year-old equalled former world No 1 Annika Sorenstam's record of 29 under par rounds in a row . The New Zealand world No 1 tees off at the par 3 eighth hole at the event in California . Sorenstam set the LPGA Tour mark in 2004. Ko also won the Women's Australian Open winner in February the week before her New Zealand victory, she was a stroke behind leaders Charley Hull, Na Yeon Choi and Austin Ernst halfway through the first round in the first major championship of the season. Opening in strong morning wind at tree-lined Mission Hills, Ko made a 14-foot birdie putt on her first hole and got to 2 under with an 8-footer on the 12th. She bogeyed the par-4 13th, hitting into the front right bunker and leaving herself a 25-foot par putt. After playing partner Lexi Thompson hit into the water in front of the green on the 133-yard 14th with the wind gusting to 25-30 mph, Ko hit pin-high to the right and made the 15-footer for birdie. Former world No 1 Sorenstam set her LPGA tour record of consecutive rounds under par in 2004 . Defending champion Lexi Thomas could only manage a round of 72 on her opener . Ko bogeyed three of the next four holes to make the turn at 1 over. Playing into a right-to-left crosswind on the par-4 15th, she drove into the front of the left fairway bunker. Close to the lip of the bunker, she chipped 30 yards to the fairway and hit her third to 35 feet. On the par-4 16th, she drove to the left, with the ball stopping in rough on the front edge of a bunker. Her fairway wood with the ball below her feet ended up short of the green in the left rough and she hit her third to 20 feet. Michelle Wie watches on after making a shot on the 12th of the Mission Hills tournament . The US superstar dropped two shots on the final hole to card a 72 for her first round . She was fortunate to only drop one shot on the par-5 18th. After driving into the right rough, hitting a fairway wood into the left rough, and sending her third through the green, Ko hit a flop shot that ticked a palm tree and stopped in the fringe, leaving a steep downhill putt that raced 15 feet past. She made the putt for a bogey save. Ko got back to even par on the par-5 second, hitting a chip to a foot. She also chipped to a foot on the par-3 fifth after missing the green to the left. Thompson, the defending champion, had a 72. Michelle Wie, second last year, had a double bogey on No. 18 in a 73.

Lydia Ko posted a round of 71 in first round of the ANA Inspiration . The 17-year-old equalled Annika Sorenstam's LPGA record of 29 successive rounds under par . Michelle Wie stumbled with a double bogey at the 18th for a score of 73 .


Crystal Palace are convinced Yannick Bolasie will learn from Wilfried Zaha’s mistakes and not jump into a dream move too soon. The electrifying winger has dazzled for the Eagles since Alan Pardew took over in January and has been watched by Liverpool and Newcastle this season. Bolasie has the opportunity to shine against Manchester City on Monday night and his manager - who was firm in the stance that it would take astronomical money to tempt Palace into selling - wants the 25-year-old to continue honing his skills at Selhurst Park. Crystal Palace are convinced Yannick Bolasie will learn from Wilfried Zaha’s mistakes and not jump ship . Electrifying winger has dazzled for the Eagles since Alan Pardew took over the club in January . ‘If he is going to go, he’s going to have to for a lot of money,’ Pardew said. ‘I think Yannick knows he needs to develop more to go to a top club. I actually think top clubs probably appreciate that.’ Zaha made the £10million switch to Manchester United two seasons ago but managed just two Premier League starts under David Moyes and sealed a permanent move back home this February after impressing on loan. Many point towards Zaha’s troubling spell in the north-west as serving only to curb his development, and Pardew believes last week’s announcement of post-tax profits of £17m means Bolasie will stay in south London when clubs inevitably come knocking this summer. He has two years to run on his contract. Zaha made just four appearances for Manchester United in two years with the club . Louis Van Gaal told Zaha he wasn't part of his plans after Capital One Cup snub . ‘He is a player who can change games and it brings unbelievable value to him. It’ll have to be a very, very big fee trust me,’ Pardew added. ‘The club is on a great financial footing. We are trying not just to improve the team but the facilities. It is not just the stadium but here at the training ground and grow the club as quickly as we can. ‘We have got a good base of players here and three or four additions to the group in the summer, we could be strong candidates for the top ten.’ Pardew admits it would have to take a very, very big fee to lure Bolasie away from Selhurst Park .

Winger Yannick Bolasie has excelled under new manager Alan Pardew . Pardew is hoping winger will learn that the grass is not always greener . Wilfried Zaha left when he was handed dream move to Manchester United . But that move went sour and Pardew hopes Bolasie will learn from Zaha .


FA Cup semi-finalists Reading still have lingering relegation worries in the Championship after they threw away a 1-0 lead to draw 1-1 with Cardiff at the Madejski Stadium. Reading took the lead with only four minutes gone when Pavel Pogrebnyak got a touch to Garath McCleary's nod-down to divert the ball past Cardiff goalkeeper David Marshall. But they allowed a mediocre Cardiff side to snatch a point in the 90th minute when Conor McAleny rifled in a shot from Aron Gunnarsson's precise pass. Cardiff's Conor McAleny (left) celebrates after scoring a late equaliser against Reading . Reading: Federici, Gunter, Pearce, Hector, Obita, McCleary (Norwood 74'), Ake, Akpan, Robson-Kanu (Blackman 85'), Mackie (Appiah 68'), Pogrebnyak . Subs not used: Yakubu, Karacan, Knight, Andersen . Goals: Pogrebnyak 4' Cardiff: Marshall, Peltier (Malone 84'), Ecuele Manga, Morrison, Da Silva, Noone, Whittingham, Gunnarsson, Ralls (Kennedy 65'), Doyle (Mason 65'), McAleny . Subs not used: Adeyemi, O'Keefe, Moore, Gabbidon. Goals: McAleny 90' Referee: Scott Duncan . Attendance: 17,953 . Reading face Arsenal in their last-four clash at Wembley on April 18. On their previous semi-final appearance, in 1927, they lost 3-0 to eventual winners Cardiff at Molineux. As Reading's cup displays have been impressive, though, their league form has been patchy. They had won only two of their previous nine Championship matches, losing six of them. Cardiff's season has been one of inconsistency, too, but they arrived at the Madejski Stadium on an unbeaten run of three matches. They were also undefeated on their travels for five games, winning their past three. Reading made the early running and were rewarded in only the fourth minute when they went ahead. Jordan Obita crossed from the left, McCleary nodded it forward and Pogrebnyak guided it past Marshall for his third goal in two matches. Cardiff, beaten 2-1 at home by Reading in the cup fourth round in January, replied quickly. McAleny tried a snapshot from the edge of the Reading area but his effort was half-blocked and goalkeeper Adam Federici gathered comfortably. Reading could have stretched their lead when captain Alex Pearce rose to meet a McCleary corner but fellow centre-back Michael Hector got there before him and glanced his header wide. Cardiff tried hard to get back into the game but had little joy. Fabio cut in from the left flank but his powerful strike was blocked by Pearce at the near post, and Peter Whittingham's dangerous free-kick was neatly caught by Federici. Pavel Pogrebnyak celebrates scoring for Reading against Cardiff . Reading continued to assert control after the break, with Chelsea loanee Nathan Ake impressing on his debut in midfield. Most of Reading's best creative moves were channelled through him. Cardiff relied on the swift counter-attack, with Joe Ralls almost setting free McAleny. But his final pass carried too much pace and, with McAleny unable to retrieve it, the chance went begging. An opportunity also went astray at the other end, when Bruno Ecuele-Manga's poor pass was intercepted by McCleary but the Reading winger hesitated too long before firing a shot wide of Marshall's far post. Cardiff responded with a low shot from Craig Noone, which Federici did well to save, and a header from Ecuele-Manga from another Whittingham free-kick, which drifted wide. Reading went much closer in the closing stages. Substitute Kwesi Appiah, on debut on loan from Crystal Palace, forced a fine stop from Marshall and Hector nodded a McCleary corner into the ground and up against the crossbar. But Cardiff grabbed a draw right at the end from McAleny's fine finish from the edge of the home area.

Conor McAleny scores stoppage time equaliser for Cardiff . Pavel Pogrebnyak had put Reading in front after four minutes .


Liverpool's players must focus on getting themselves and the club into the semi-finals of the FA Cup rather than Steven Gerrard, according to Reds legend Robbie Fowler. Gerrard will leave Anfield at the end of the season to join Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy and the skipper is hoping to bow out in style by leading Brendan Rodgers' side to the final at Wembley. But ahead of Wednesday night's quarter-final replay with Blackburn, Fowler has warned Gerrard's team-mates not to concentrate on providing the 34-year-old with a fairytale ending to his Liverpool career. Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard (right) trains alongside Rickie Lambert at Melwood on Monday . Gerrard will miss Liverpool's FA Cup quarter-final replay with Blackburn because of suspension . Reds legend Robbie Fowler, pictured with Kenny Dalglish, says Liverpool's players must not focus on Gerrard . Fowler told goal.com: 'Everyone would absolutely love Steven to win it, what with this being his last season and possibly last game, and hopefully that will be the case. 'But Liverpool have got to get themselves into the position where they can't do this just for Steven Gerrard. They've got to do it for every individual involved with the club. That's the way it should be.' Gerrard will miss the trip to Ewood Park as he serves the second match of a three-game suspension and Fowler hopes that Jordan Henderson and Co put their missing captain to the back of their minds . 'If you put too much effort in for one man, maybe you can get a little bit too excited or overboard,' added Fowler. 'As much as it would be Steven's last game, they've got to get past that and just do it for themselves. 'In an ideal world, they'll do it, and no-one would love it more than me. Steven deserves to go out on a high but they've got to do it for themselves. It's not all about Steven.' Fowler has also urged Raheem Sterling to end his contract wrangle and commit his future to the club after he rejected a new deal worth £100,000-a-week. Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling has rejected a new £100,000-a-week deal to stay at Anfield . Fowler believes Sterling, pictured training on Monday, should stay at Liverpool to develop his game . Writing in his column for the Daily Mirror, Fowler said: 'I think it’s nonsense to suggest Sterling will have to go elsewhere to win trophies and fulfil all these dreams he’s apparently got. 'In the space of two seasons, with a very, very young team that will only get better, they should have won the league, should have beaten Chelsea in a semi to get to Wembley... and should play in an FA Cup Final there in May. 'I was brought up at Anfield and still work there, so what else am I going to think?, but he’d be crazy to go at this stage in his development, especially because he’s being guided by a special manager who has already turned Luis Suarez into one of the best players in the world... and earned Luis the money to go with that status.'

Liverpool face Blackburn in an FA Cup quarter-final replay on Wednesday . The FA Cup final could be Steven Gerrard's last game for the club . Robbie Fowler insists Liverpool's players must not focus on Gerrard . Raheem Sterling should remain at Anfield, according to Fowler .


London Broncos are set to give a debut to Leeds teenager Elliot Minchella, who has joined them on loan to the end of the season. The 19-year-old loose forward has made six substitute Super League appearances but has failed to break into the Rhinos team so far this year. London coach Andrew Henderson said: 'Elliot comes highly recommended from Leeds and has come through a good system. I feel Elliot will add competition for places and some quality to our forward pack.' Elliot Minchella has joined London Broncos on loan from Leeds until the end of the season . Minchella and his Leeds team-mate Zak Hardaker remain the subject of an investigation by the Rhinos into an assault. Both were released by police after paying compensation to their victim but Leeds are conducting their own inquiries and are expected to deliver an outcome next week. Minchella has been named in Henderson's 19-man squad for Friday's game with Featherstone. 'I'm really excited to be coming down to London,' he said. 'It's a massive change of scenery but I'm going to learn a lot from being down here. 'It's really good for my development to play with some great players down here and hopefully I'll do a good job for London.'

Leeds teenager moves to London Broncos until end of the season . The 19-year-old has made six sub appearances in Super League .


Stuart McCall on Sunday night admitted the finest performance of his short Ibrox reign left him with ‘goosebumps’ and a growing belief that he can steer revitalised Rangers up to the Premiership. On a day which ended with Ibrox captain Lee McCulloch publicly apologising for a reckless red card, first-half goals from Kenny Miller and Haris Vuckic were enough to ensure the captain’s 44th-minute folly did not prevent Rangers securing an important three points against Championship title winners Hearts. Genero Zeefuik pulled back a late consolation for Robbie Neilson’s men but Rangers closed out the game to make it three wins in a row as McCall’s improving side leapfrogged Hibs into second place with six games remaining. Kenny Miller (left) celebrates scoring for Rangers against Championship winners Hearts on Sunday . And last night the delighted Ibrox caretaker boss admitted he is starting to trust that his players can take charge of their own destiny in the end-of-season play-offs. ‘I’m beginning to trust the players the more and more I work with them,’ said McCall. ‘I’m very proud of the team and the fans. Hearts had won nine on the bounce before today and they are champions for a reason. They’ve won 26 out of 30 games. ‘But we scored two terrific goals and the tempo and passing in the first half in particular was outstanding. Haris Vuckic (centre) scored the decisive goal for Rangers in the 2-1 victory that moved them into second . ‘The second half was about guts and desire and being a good team-mate. ‘It was a hard shift and there were a lot of tired boys at full-time — but it was a deserved win in the end. ‘I’ve got to say that was probably the first time for a long, long, long time — probably since I was playing — that I have been out there and got goosebumps. I thought the boys deserved their applause at the end. ‘Hibs have lost three on the bounce now and we’ve won three on the bounce, so that shows how things can change quickly in football. Rangers were reduced to 10 men when captain Lee McCulloch was dismissed from the pitch . Staurt McCall says the Gers captain apologised to him as well as the players after the incident . ‘We’ve got a tough game at Queen of the South on Thursday and all we want is to keep improving. ‘But we can take belief, confidence and momentum forward from this.’ After the match, McCulloch made a brief appearance on BT Sport to apologise for his red card for an elbow on Osman Sow. He said: ‘I felt as though I was caught in no-man’s land, if he won the header there would have been a runner in. Genero Zeefuik tapped in from close range as Hearts scored a consolation against Rangers . ‘There was no intent whatsoever, I can say that honestly, but obviously I’m disappointed. ‘I’ve apologised to all the management, all my team-mates, I feel as if I’ve let myself down.’ McCulloch is out of contract at the end of this season and when asked if he would like to remain at Ibrox, he said: ‘Of course I want to stay here. I’ve got a part to play I feel for the run-in and get the club back to where we want to be.’ McCall plans to watch the incident again before deciding what action, if any, to take against his captain, who now misses Thursday night’s match at Queen of the South. Victory for Rangers moves them into second and continues their resurgence under Stuart McCall . He said: ‘I missed the challenge but the referee said he’s caught the boy with an elbow. ‘Jig’s come in and apologised to me and the team afterwards, so it must have merited a red card. ‘Am I disappointed that such an experienced player would do that at such an important time of the season? That’s a good question but I’ve not had time to think about it. I’ll look at it then speak to him.’ McCulloch walks off the pitch after he was shown the red card on Easter Sunday . But McCall praised the attitude of the players who remained on the park and won three points. ‘Attitude and desire has got to be a gimme if you want to play here at Rangers,’ he added. ‘It’s easy to buckle and go into your shell when things aren’t going well but we saw today people puffed out their chests. ‘They are enjoying themselves because of the way we are playing and results. But they know if they don’t perform like that every week they will be out of the team.’

Rangers boosted their chances of promotion with a win against Hearts . Kenny Miller and Haris Vuckic earned Gers victory at Ibrox Stadium . Rangers lost captain Lee McCulloch to a reckless red card during match . Boss Stuart McCall is confident of getting rejuvenated Rangers promoted .


Fourth-place Monaco missed the chance to close the gap in the French title race after drawing 0-0 at home to Montpellier on Tuesday. A win would have moved Monaco level on points with third-place Marseille, but coach Leonardo Jardim's side failed to break down a well-organized Montpellier side, which is in seventh place. The visitors missed a penalty early in the second half when Paraguay striker Lucas Barrios fired a penalty over the crossbar. Substitute Dimitar Berbatov responds as Monaco are held to a goalless draw with Montpellier at Stade Louis II . Result sees the Principality side remain in fourth spot, behind Marseille, Lyon and Paris St germain . Montpellier forward Lucas Barrios reacts after missing a penalty to put the visitors in the lead . Monaco: Subasic, Fabinho, Wallace Santos, Abdennour, Kurzawa, Toulalan, Moutinho, Dirar (Berbatov), Silva (Germain), Ferreira Carrasco (Carvalho), Martial . Subs: Stekelenburg, Kondogbia, Raggi, Traore . Booked: Wallace . Monpellier: Jourdren, Deplagne, Hilton, El Kaoutari, Congre, Isimat-Mirin, Marveaux, Lasne, Dabo, Mounier, Barrios (Camara) Subs: Tiene, Martin, Berigaud, Saihi, Bakar, Ligali . Booke: Dabo, Congre . The draw means Monaco is two points behind Marseille, six behind Lyon and seven behind league leader Paris Saint-Germain. Teenage striker Anthony Martial, who had netter five goals in his past four games, started ahead of 34-year-old striker Dimitar Berbatov. In a tight first half, midfielder Morgan Sanson forced Monaco goalkeeper Danijel Subasic into a smart save, while Monaco left back Layvin Kurzawa headed in a cross moments before the interval, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Montpellier had a penalty claim turned down early in the second half. But moments later referee Said Enjimi pointed to the spot after midfielder Nabil Dirar barged into Bryan Dabo. But Barrios missed the chance for this 12th goal in the 24th game of the campaign when he fired his shot high over high over the crossbar. Meanwhile, second-division Auxerre beat French Cup holder Guingamp 1-0 to reach the final. Auxerre, a four-time French Cup winner which now plays in the second division, won thanks to a goal from midfielder Frederic Sammaritano. Auxerre plays either Paris Saint-Germain or Saint-Etienne in the final. They play their semifinal on Wednesday. Monaco playmaker Joao Moutinho goes down under a challenge from Montpellier's Joris Marveaux (right) Monaco forward Anthony Martial (left) tries to break the first half deadlock at the Stade Louis II . Monaco's Layvin Kurzawa (right) challenges Montpellier's Mathieu Deplagne during the Ligue 1 clash . Yannick Ferreira Carrasco (right) of Monaco races down the touchline being chased by Montpellier defenders . Kurzawa (left) saw a goal disallowed for Monaco towards the closing moments of the first-half . Barrios looks dejected after missing the chance to hand Montpellier the lead from the penalty spot . Former Tottenham and Manchester United forward Berbatov was brought on to try and change things . Monaco fans display a banner depicting Prince Rainier III to commemorate the 10th anniversary of his death . Berbatov tries to take the ball past Montpellier defender Vitorino Hilton as the game draws to a close .

Monaco were held to a goalless draw with Montpellier in their Ligue 1 clash . Lucas Barrios missed a penalty to give visitors the lead in the second half . Principality side failed to break into title chasing pack of Marseille, Lyon and leaders PSG .


Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris will miss Sunday's Premier League trip to struggling Burnley as he recovers from a gashed knee suffered two weeks ago against Leicester City. The France international was carried off on a stretcher early in the 4-3 win against Leicester City and missed his country's friendlies against Brazil and Denmark. 'Hugo Lloris is still recovering after his problem against Leicester - he is out,' Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said at a news conference on Thursday. Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris receives treatment after injuring his knee against Leicester City . Lloris will miss Sunday's game against Burnley after being hurt in a collision with team-mate Kyle Walker . Michel Vorm will deputise for Lloris. Spanish striker Roberto Soldado is also a doubt for the match at Turf Moor, where Tottenham need a victory to stay on the edge of the fight for a top-four finish. Tottenham are in seventh place in the table with eight games remaining, six points behind fourth-placed Manchester United and with a far worse goal difference. However, Pochettino said he hopes the quartet of players who featured for England on Tuesday against Italy will be have received a timely confidence boost. Harry Kane is one of four Tottenham players who will return after playing for England against Italy . Mauricio Pochettino could be without striker Roberto Soldado at Turf Moor on Sunday . Harry Kane started his first senior England international in Turin, while Andros Townsend came off the bench to score a superb equaliser. Ryan Mason earned his first senior cap while Kyle Walker was also involved. 'It's been a very good week for Tottenham,' he said. 'The English players and others with their international teams have put in good performances. They are all fit and at a very good level.'

Hugo Lloris suffered a gashed knee in Tottenham's win against Leicester . Michel Vorm will start at Turf Moor as Lloris continues his recovery . Roberto Soldado is doubtful for Sunday's clash with Burnley . Mauricio Pochettino hopes Spurs' England contingent will return on a high .


Blackburn Rovers boss Gary Bowyer has challenged star striker Jordan Rhodes to become an FA Cup hero as the Championship underdogs face Liverpool in the first full house at Ewood Park since 2011. Rovers rejected a £12million bid from Hull City for Scotland international Rhodes at the start of the season — a decision that will be vindicated should the 17-goal striker score the winner in Wednesday night's sixth-round replay and take his side to Wembley. ‘Someone has got to be the hero for Blackburn Rovers,’ said Bowyer. ‘We will need heroes in terms of defending and work-rate, but we also need a match-winner and there is probably no-one better than Jordan Rhodes. Hopefully he can step up and have his name in lights.’ Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer has said Jordan Rhodes (centre) can become an Ewood Park hero . Rhodes goes into the FA Cup replay on the back of scoring in Blackburn's 3-0 win over Leeds . Rovers were a laughing stock when they were last in the FA Cup quarter-finals in 2013 and only 8,000 turned up at Ewood Park to see them lose to Millwall, but Bowyer said: ‘There will be an extra 20,000 people in the stadium compared to that game against Millwall. 'I think it’s recognition from the supporters who have realised the amount of hard work that’s gone into what we’re trying to do, myself and the staff.’ Blackburn’s run is even more impressive because of a restricted squad of 24 players due to breaching Financial Fair Play rules. They also have injuries to Josh King, Chris Taylor, Rudy Gestede and Grant Hanley. Rovers boss Bowyer believes his side will be buoyed by the 'extra 20,000 people' at Ewood Park .

Gary Bowyer hopes Jordan Rhodes can fire Blackburn into next round . Blackburn face Liverpool at home after drawing with the Reds at Anfield . The Championship outfit will have their first sell-out crowd since 2011 .


Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has warned his side must overcome a difficult obstacle at Crystal Palace to avoid losing yet more ground to their rivals. Fading champions City had to watch in frustration on Saturday, not only as Chelsea extended their lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League, but as Arsenal and Manchester United shunted them down to fourth. Slipping to such a position was not in the script when City pulled level with Chelsea on New Year's Day and any further slips would increase the pressure on Pellegrini significantly. Manuel Pellegrini has warned his side must overcome a difficult obstacle at Crystal Palace . Manchester City manager Pellegrini does not want his side to lose any more ground in the race for the title . With the Manchester derby coming next week, City can ill afford to drop points at Selhurst Park on Monday but Pellegrini knows the Eagles have become a tough proposition under Alan Pardew. Pellegrini said: 'Maybe they are playing different. They are in a good moment and they are playing with a lot of trust. 'With the other manager also Crystal Palace was a difficult team, but now they are playing at home.' City laboured to a 3-0 win over Palace at the Etihad Stadium in December in what proved Neil Warnock's penultimate match in charge. Pardew was appointed early in the new year and since then they have proved highly resilient, losing just three times in the Premier League and removing relegation fears. The Monday fixture has meant both sides have had to be patient for their return to action after the international break. It is a wait that could have been advantageous in terms of extra rest had their rivals lost over the weekend. Manchester City players celebrate scoring against West Bromwich Albion in their last match . Pellegrini knows hisside can ill afford to fall further behind Chelsea in the Premier League title race . Pellegrini (left) will try to close the gap between his team and Chelsea at the top of the Premier League . It has not turned out that way with Saturday's positive results for Chelsea, Arsenal and United turning the heat up on City, but Pellegrini claims it does not make any difference. The Chilean said: 'I don't think we have excuses about those things. We are going to play the last game of this matchday but that doesn't matter. 'It is not an excuse and not an advantage. All the national players arrived back on Wednesday - most of them - so every team had three or four days to prepare. It is not so important.' Should Pablo Zabaleta feature for City it would come just two days after his wife gave birth to a son, Asier. Argentina international Zabaleta previously announced his wife's pregnancy to the wider world with a baby-themed goal celebration during a 4-1 win at Sunderland in December.

Manchester City face Crystal Palace on Monday night at Selhurst Park . City remain nine points behind Chelsea in the Premier League . Manuel Pellegrini knows his team cannot afford to lose any more ground .


Each week Sportsmail gathers up the ratings from our team of reporters to provide the best Barclays Premier League starting XI of the day. Eden Hazard, Mesut Ozil and Joey Barton feature in this week's list as they put in man-of-the-match performances that helped their teams win, but who else made the XI? Scroll down to find out. GK - Tim Howard (EVERTON vs Southampton) - 7 . Had to be alert to James Ward-Prowse’s swerving effort, stretching a big hand out to his left in order to beat it away. Key to Everton's win. Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard put in a man of the match performance against Southampton . DEF - Antonio Valencia (MANCHESTER UNITED vs Aston Villa) - 7.5 . Industrious down the right flank, almost created a goal for Rooney with one surge; not tested defensively. Antonio Valencia runs with the ball during Manchester United's win over Aston Villa on Saturday . DEF - Marcos Rojo (MANCHESTER UNITED vs Aston Villa) - 7 . Elegant on the ball, passed it well and came close to opening the scoring with a 30-yard drive that fizzed over the bar. Marcos Rojo was elegant on the ball and passed it well as Manchester United won at Old Trafford . DEF - Phil Jagielka (EVERTON vs Southampton) - 7 . Scored what turned out to be the winner and commanded the side to an important win. Phil Jagielka (right) high fives fellow team of the day player Howard during Everton's 1-0 victory . DEF - Nacho Monreal (ARSENAL vs Liverpool) - 7 . Solid defensive display, up against Lazar Markovic and Philippe Coutinho. Arsenal's Nacho Monreal put in a solid defensive display against Liverpool at the Emirates . MID - Willian (CHELSEA vs Stoke City) - 7.5 . A handful for Stoke as he, Oscar and Hazard linked up well to create chances in the first half, though they were never taken. Never short of a run. Willian runs with the ball during Chelsea's 2-1 win over Stoke City at Stamford Bridge . MID - Joey Barton (West Bromwich Albion vs QUEENS PARK RANGERS) - 8 . Name sung loud by travelling fans at the final whistle, in recognition of a fine display capped by a goal in added time to give this win an emphatic 4-1 scoreline. Joey Barton was rightly praised for his efforts in QPR's emphatic 4-1 win over West Brom . MID - Ander Herrera (MANCHESTER UNITED vs Aston Villa) - 8.5 . To think there was a time when he couldn’t get a game. Passing was excellent and his two goals were thoroughly deserved. Ander Herrera's passing was excellent and his two goals were thoroughly deserved at Old Trafford . MID - Mesut Ozil (ARSENAL vs Liverpool) - 7.5 . Produced silky touches and a brilliant free-kick for the second which put Arsenal in control. Mesut Ozil produced silky touches and a brilliant free-kick for the second which put Arsenal in control . MID - Eden Hazard (CHELSEA vs Stoke City) - 8.5 . A live wire. Master of the one-two and creating chances. Ultimately kept his cool from the spot to give Chelsea a much-needed lead before Adam’s equaliser. Didn’t look tired, despite his weariness during international break. Assisted the winning goal. Eden Hazard looked every bit a Premier League winner as Chelsea beat Stoke at home on Saturday . FWD - Loic Remy (CHELSEA vs Stoke City) - 7.5 . Looked a worthy replacement for Costa as he twice went close to giving Chelsea the lead in the opening seven minutes. Scored in the second half when Mourinho really needed it, and it was deserved. Loic Remy looked a worthy replacement for Diego Costa as he scored and was a menace against Stoke .

Eden Hazard put in a man-of-the-match performance for Chelsea . Mesut Ozil was in fine form for Arsenal as they beat Liverpool . Joey Barton helped QPR to an emphatic 4-1 win over West Brom .


Barcelona star Neymar feels his team's Champions League tie with Paris Saint-Germain will prove a real footballing 'spectacle'. The Brazil international is expecting more fireworks following Barca's win over Barclays Premier League champions Manchester City in the last 16 of the competition. Barcelona and PSG meet on April 15 in the French capital, and Neymar told Samba Foot: 'It will be a great game between two great teams with excellent players. That means it'll be a real spectacle. Barcelona star Neymar feels his team's Champions League tie with PSG will prove a real 'spectacle' Neymar pictured during training with Barcelona on Saturday as they prepare for Celta Vigo on Sunday . 'PSG are a great side with plenty of individuals. We know it'll be a great footballing show.' Neymar has proved a good fit at the Nou Camp alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, and he is hoping they can continue their push for the La Liga title. 'Messi and Luis Suarez are two great players who, along with me, try to help the team in the best possible way,' he said. 'We're in a good moment of the season and I'm confident we can get the best title for the team.' Zlatan Ibrahimovic controls the ball during a training session on Saturday for Paris-Saint Germain . Former Chelsea defender David Luiz runs during training ahead of PSG's clash with Marseille on Sunday .

Neymar: 'It will be a great game between two great teams with excellent players. That means it'll be a real spectacle' Barcelona face PSG in the French capital on April 15 . Barca saw off Manchester City in the Champions League previously .


Andros Townsend admitted he had devoted plenty of thought to his cheeky retaliation against Paul Merson. ‘That tweet has been going over in my head,’ said Townsend, who followed up his spectacular equaliser in Italy by hitting Twitter to strike back at criticism from the former Arsenal and England midfielder. ‘As soon at the goal went in, I was just desperate to get that tweet out. I’m eagerly awaiting his response. I haven’t seen it yet. Andros Townsend scores England's equaliser in their 1-1 friendly draw with Italy in Turin on Tuesday night . Townsend celebrates his strike with Tottenham Hotspur team-mates Ryan Mason (left) and Kyle Walker . In his column for skysports.com, Merson wrote: 'If Andros Townsend can get in then it opens it up for anybody. We are not picking players who are playing well for their clubs – he got taken off after 30 minutes the other week against United. 'The England manager is there watching the game and he still gets picked. Townsend and Kyle Walker were the worst two players on the pitch. 'How can you tell me that a manager goes and watches Man United against Tottenham, the winger gets taken off after 30 minutes, the winger from the other team absolutely rinses the full-back for England and Ashley Young doesn’t get in the squad?' ‘He said when the squad was announced that I should be “nowhere near the squad”. It didn’t really annoy me, but gave me the extra incentive to silence a few critics. Hopefully I’ve done that as I always have.’ Merson had made his comments on Sky Sports when Roy Hodgson named the players for games against Lithuania and Italy. The 1-1 draw in Turin had not long ended when Townsend (below) tweeted to his 285,000 followers: ‘Not bad for a player that should be “nowhere near the squad” ay @PaulMerse?’ The Tottenham’s winger’s father Troy joined in, too, tweeting: “Oh ye of little faith #Merson get in.’ They could also have pointed out that Townsend’s screamer was his third for England, taking him level with Merson. ‘You can never stop proving things to people,’ said Townsend. ‘But I think every time I’ve put on an England shirt I have done myself justice, I have done Roy Hodgson justice and the nation justice. I was a bit disappointed with his comments but I have come on the pitch and silenced them.' Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson (centre) criticised Townsend's call-up to the England squad last week . Harry Kane congratulates his Tottenham team-mate Townsend after the final whistle in Turin . Good-natured north London Twitter skirmishing aside, there will have been a few Spurs supporters who understood Merson’s point. Townsend’s form has been inconsistent, and having seen him come off the bench to score for England they will wonder why he cannot do it more often for Tottenham. ‘I can’t put my finger on it or tell you what it is,’ admitted Townsend, when asked about the contrast. ‘The (England) manager has always given me confidence to go and express myself and play my natural game. ‘I wouldn’t say it’s my best form but this is the best form I’ve produced this season. I have had a few injury problems but I’m over the worst of that. ‘I’m slowly building my confidence back to where it was and hopefully from now until the end of the season I can get more games for Spurs and England and get back to the football I was producing last season.’ After long-range goals against Montenegro and San Marino, Townsend enjoyed the one he flashed past Gianluigi Buffon on Tuesday. It came from his weaker, right foot, against elite opposition and he made a beeline for Buffon after the match to ask for his shirt as a souvenir. ‘He is a top goalkeeper — one of the best to ever play the game — so to score past him I thought was no mean feat,’ said Townsend. ‘As soon as the whistle went, I thought I’d go and get his shirt because it is a real night to savour for me.’ Roy Hodgson was also impressed with Townsend after the Tottenham winger's fine goal after the break .

Andros Townsend scored the equaliser in England's 1-1 draw with Italy . Townsend tweeted  to hit back at Paul Merson for his previous comments . Townsend has been been 'desperate' to silence his critics . Merson had slammed Townsend for his display against Man United .


Mike Brown admitted he would adopt a 'cautious' approach in recovering from his latest concussion setback. The England full-back remains unsure when he will return after pulling out of Harlequins' Aviva Premiership clash with Saracens at Wembley last weekend. Northampton wing George North has been advised by leading medics not to play again this season after suffering four quick-fire concussions, while Ireland's Johnny Sexton was stood down for 12 weeks earlier this term. England full back Mike Brown admits he is unsure when he will return to action for club side Harlequins . Brown is determined not to suffer an extended break - so will not rush himself back to action ahead of time. 'It was just after the France game, there wasn't one incident where I was dizzy or concussed, but after the game I just didn't feel quite right,' said Brown. 'I had a headache the Sunday and Monday, so just being cautious with it, I don't want to get into the situation where you get a few knockouts or something. 'You don't want to be into a situation where you're out for a long time like Johnny Sexton or Geoff Parling or something like that. 'So with what's coming up at the end of the year, everyone's being cautious, and I'm being cautious as well. George North will not play against Clermont Auvergne on Saturday and will see a neurosurgeon . North suffered his fourth quick-fire concussion after being knocked out against Wasps on Friday night . 'I think it's just ongoing to see how I am stage by stage. 'I'll just see how I am with the stages, do the 20-minute bike, see how I am after that and take it from there.' Brown was knocked out cold in England's 47-17 victory over Italy at Twickenham in the second round of RBS 6 Nations action in February. The Harlequins flyer had hoped to recover in time to face Ireland in Dublin on March 1, but pulled out in the build-up. Brown said increased awareness of the symptoms of concussion, driven by players undergoing World Rugby online modules, helped him realise he would not be ready to face Ireland. Brown (left) was knocked out cold in England's 47-17 victory over Italy at Twickenham in February . The full back (centre) was immediately treated by the England medical team after being concussed vs Italy . 'Learning about all the symptoms was massive,' said Brown, speaking for Land Rover's 'We Deal In Real' campaign. 'I pulled out on the Tuesday before the Ireland game with the symptoms, and I could maybe have tried to carry on with training, but being aware of the symptoms was important. 'So just knowing the dangers of the long and short-term dangers, how important it is to be honest and how serious it can be, I think those are the main things I took from the online courses. 'After the France game I had a headache and could (have) easily thought "it's Sarries, it's Wembley and I'll give it a go", but we're so clued up on it now that I don't think anyone would risk it. Brown (right) says he suffered a headache after playing in England's clash against France last month . 'If I can do it, pulling out of England-Ireland, the biggest game of the Six Nations at that point, then I think anyone can do it, and should do it. 'Now I've been through it I would definitely talk to team-mates urging them not to play on if I thought they were showing symptoms. 'At the time you think it's a pain but now I'm very glad I took those online modules. 'It's just not worth pushing through.' Land Rover Ambassador Mike Brown was speaking at the launch of 'We Deal In Real', Land Rover's Rugby World Cup 2015 campaign that champions people at the heart and soul of the game by putting grassroots clubs on the global stage. www.landrover.com/rugby @LandRoverRugby £WeDealInReal .

Saracens beat Harlequins 42-14 at Wembley Stadium on March 28 . Harlequins full back Mike Brown pulled out of the Aviva Premiership clash . Brown is still wary after suffering concussion while on England duty .


Roberto Martinez will hold talks with Romelu Lukaku after the striker’s new agent suggested he could leave Everton as soon as this summer. Mino Raiola, who has brokered big-money deals for Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Mario Balotelli, said he would have never sanctioned Lukaku’s £28million move to Goodison Park last summer. It has left the 21-year-old’s future on Merseyside up in the air, even though he is only one season into a five-year contract. Roberto Martinez will hold talks with Romelu Lukaku after the striker’s agent suggested he could leave Everton . Agent Mino Raiola said he would have never sanctioned Lukaku’s £28million move to Goodison Park . ‘He is an agent that for whatever reason needs to do those comments,’ Martinez said. ‘I always speak with Romelu and all the players about those situations. Romelu made the decision of changing his agent. He is entitled to do that. It is a personal decision. ‘Romelu is a very important player for us. As a football club we showed an incredible respect and integrity in the way we conducted our decisions about him and his career and we will carry on doing that.’ The Belgian international is just is one season into a five-year contract following his move from Chelsea .

Roberto Martinez has confirmed he will hold talks with Romelu Lukaku . Striker Lukaku has been linked with a move away by new agent Mino Raiola . Raiola said he would have never sanctioned Lukaku’s £28million move . Belgian international is one year into a five-year-deal at Goodison Park .


First impressions are not necessarily the best. When Adam Lyth scratched around for 22 in a Championship match against Nottinghamshire in 2008, Graeme Swann branded him a ‘walking wicket’. ‘But then,’ Swann added. ‘He proved us all wrong.’ Lyth, one of six Yorkshire players in the England squad that left Heathrow on Thursday for three Tests in the Caribbean, hit back in that match seven years ago with a second-innings of 132. Wisden later called him ‘the find of the season’. Yorkshire's Adam Lyth fields during day three of the Champion County match against the MCC . Now he finds himself competing with Jonathan Trott to be Alastair Cook’s opening partner at the first Test in Antigua on April 13. It has been quite a rise. ‘I was over the moon when I was told about my selection,’ he told Sportsmail. ‘I can’t wait to get going.’ The story of Lyth’s ascent, from a talented but inconsistent left-hander to the ballast behind Yorkshire’s charge to the Championship last season is one of grit, nous and no little skill. He finished with 1,489 runs — more than anyone in the country — six hundreds and a welter of awards. In fact, much of the hard work had been done before the season began, prompted by a moderate 2013 which forced him to work on his concentration levels. Yorkshire’s sports psychologist Scott Hartley came up with the idea of harnessing Lyth’s love of golf — his handicap is eight — to get him holing one short putt after another. The challenge lay not in the task itself, but in its repetition. ‘There’s no skill in sinking a two-foot putt,’ said Lyth. ‘It’s just about concentration. It’s a bit like batting and not giving your wicket away. You try not to do something silly.’ After 213 successful putts, he missed. But the point had been made. Lyth set about 2014 with renewed focus. ‘It wasn’t just the concentration side of the game — my confidence changed, too,’ he said. ‘I got runs early on against the university sides, then played well at Taunton. It just snowballed from there.’ Lyth plays a shot while batting for Yorkshire against the MCC at the Sheik Zayed Stadium last month . At a time when England’s Test batsmen have lost the knack of scoring the ‘daddy hundreds’ once espoused by former batting coach Graham Gooch, Lyth’s remorselessness caught the selectors’ eye. He made 230 at Northampton, putting on 375 for the first wicket with the highly rated Alex Lees, then 251 against Lancashire at Old Trafford, one short of Darren Lehmann’s Roses record. ‘One of my things is that I’ve never got enough runs,’ said Lyth. ‘If you’re going to get a hundred, you may as well make it a big one.’ Lyth’s dedication has been evident for years. His mum Christine would drive him from game to game in his teenage years, and he spent two seasons trialling as a midfielder with Manchester City before deciding to throw in his lot with cricket (his brother Ashley played for Leicester and Scarborough). And his reluctance to talk about his footballing days tells of a man who wants to be judged by his run-making alone. When he phoned his mum to tell her about his selection, she was ‘very emotional’. Lyth bowls during day three of the Champion County match against the MCC . As the home summer got under way with six university fixtures across the country, it was easy to forget that the first-class season actually began late last month in the Middle East. And, in the now annual fixture in Abu Dhabi between MCC and the champion county, Lyth made 113 and 46 not out as Yorkshire won by nine wickets. Watching on was Cook, who will have a big say in whether he walks out to bat in Antigua with Lyth or Trott, ready to play again after leaving the Ashes tour in November 2013 because of a stress-related condition. Lyth is suitably complimentary about a player with 49 Test caps to his name and an average pushing 47. ‘He deserves his recall. He had a fantastic summer with Warwickshire and showed his class in South Africa with the Lions. ‘It’ll be very hard to keep the likes of him out of the side. I’ve just got to concentrate on myself and impress in the nets.’ The putting green may get a visit, too. Lyth is congratulated by team-mate Alex Lees (right) after taking the wicket of Michael Carberry .

Adam Lyth has enjoyed a meteoric rise from his early days with Yorkshire . He will now battle Jonathan Trott  to be Alastair Cook's opening partner at the first Test in Antigua on April 13 . Lyth has revealed how practising golf has helped to improve his concentration . A young Lyth also spent time trialing as a midfielder with Manchester City .


Manchester City's hopes of retaining the Premier League title were dealt another blow as Manuel Pellegrini's men limped to a 2-1 defeat at Crystal Palace. Glenn Murray fired the Eagles ahead on 34 minutes with a close-range effort before Jason Puncheon scored a stunning free-kick to secure a 2-0 lead. Yaya Toure grabbed one back for the visitors, but it wasn't enough to stop City from losing further ground on league leaders Chelsea. Here, SportsMail's Sami Mokbel takes us through the key moments of the match. Thought Manchester City players didn't crowd referees, Manuel? Aggrieved at Michael Oliver's decision to let Glenn Murray's opener stand, City players were quick to surround the referee — delaying the restart. How will Pellegrini explain that one? Manuel pellegrini will struggle to defend his City players after they crowded referee Michael Oliver . Kompany gets up in the referee's face as the City captain shows his clear frustration at Selhurst Park . Palace fans weren't incredibly optimistic ahead of last night's clash. Here's why: City had recorded seven victories in a row against Palace. Alan Pardew's side had also failed to score in their last three league games against them. And to top it off, as Newcastle boss Pardew had lost his last eight league matches against City by an aggregate score of 23-3. Jason Puncheon's stunning free-kick helped Cyrstal Palace to a memorable win against Manchester City . Punchon celebrates his goal and is congratulated by Palace team-mate James McArthur (right) Wonder what FA chairman Greg Dyke made of Manchester City's starting XI yesterday. With James Milner and Frank Lampard on the bench, Manuel Pellegrini named a team without a single English outfield player for the 16th Premier League game this season. Former England midfielder Frank Lampard (pictured) and James Milner were left on the bench for City . But for goalkeeper Joe Hart, all of City's starting line-up against Crystal Palace were foreign players . Joel Ward made his 100th appearance for Palace on Monday night. Alan Pardew fears there may not be many more as the impasse over a new contract continues. Crystal Palace defender Joel Ward (left) tussles for the ball with City midfielder David Silva (right) Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew gives instructions to his players from the touchline at Selhurst Park .

Manchester City's hopes of retaining the Premier League title were dealt a hammer blow after a 2-1 defeat at Crystal Palace . Vincent Kompany and City players were visibly frustrated and the Belgian even manhandled referee Michael Oliver . Glenn Murray and Jason Puncheon gave Palace a 2-0 lead before Yaya Toure scored what proved to be a consolation for City . For the 16th league game this season, City fielded a starting line-up with no English outfield players .


Crystal Palace midfielder Jason Puncheon appeared to be struck by an object during his side's 2-1 over Manchester City. Puncheon, who scored what turned out to be the winning goal for the Eagles, appeared to be struck by a MAOAM sweet during Monday night's match at Selhurst Park. The 28-year-old was making his way to take a corner in front of the travelling Manchester City fans when he was hit by the flying object during the second half. Crystal Palace midfielder Jason Puncheon claps in the direction of Manchester City's travelling supporters . Puncheon sarcastically puts his thumbs up towards City fans after objects were thrown in his direction . A steward at  Selhurst Park picks up the MAOAM after the sweet was aimed at Puncheon . Puncheon reacted by sarcastically clapping in the direction of the City supporters after referee Michael Oliver and his assistant Gary Beswick checked to see if the Palace playmaker was OK. The former Southampton man's decisive goal came in the 48th minute when he curled a free-kick past the diving Joe Hart. His impressive strike was sandwiched in between a controversial opener by Glenn Murray and Yaya Toure's 78th-minute consolation goal. Assistant referee Gary Beswick checks on Puncheon as the midfielder holds his face . Eagles goalscorer Puncheon wipes his eye during the second-half incident at Selhurst Park . Puncheon, pictured with Wilfried Zaha, scored what turned out to be the winning goal for Alan Pardew's side .

Sweets were aimed at Jason Puncheon during Crystal Palace's victory . Puncheon appeared to be struck while making his way to take a corner . The Eagles playmaker scored in his side's 2-1 home win at Selhurst Park .


Bowling Green basketball coach Chris Jans has been fired for acting inappropriately during a drunken night out at a local bar. The university, in Ohio, took action after damning footage emerged of the coach touching an unidentified woman's behind on March 21. The married father-of-two was also accused of grabbing a 'woman's head and moving it toward your crotch' and calling another woman a 'b****', the same evening. A source told reporters that the incident was so heated a woman slapped him before he was asked to leave. Scroll down for video . Bowling Green basketball coach Chris Jans has been fired after witnesses say he acted 'aggressively and inappropriately' at an off-campus bar . The university took action after footage emerged of the coach touching an unidentified woman's behind on March 21 . At least 50 people reportedly saw the coach out of control before being escorted out of the bar . The video, obtained by the Toldeo Blade, was recorded by the woman's parents. They then wrote a letter to Bowling Green athletics director Christopher Kingston detailing more of his inappropriate behavior. The correspondence, obtained by Deadspin, read: 'While we were enjoying each others company we noticed on several occasions Chris Jans making what seemed to be advances towards several women. 'On one occasion he grabbed a woman’s head and pushed it downwards toward his crotch. 'A Single guy, drunk, we can possibly overlook, but certainly inappropriate for a Head Coach representing my university and most definitely not a married man with two children. I am certain she would not appreciate his behavior. 'As the night continued, we had hoped that the behavior was a fluke or a joke amongst friends ad we continued enjoying each others company until he made advances toward another female, petter her backside and proceeded to as/tell her to walk in front of him so that he could evaluate her assets.' An assistant coach reportedly helped him out of the local bar in Bowling Green, Ohio. Jans recently led the team to its first postseason win in 40 years . Fox Sports Ohio's Zac Jackson reported that he'd been in the bar perhaps three hours and the woman who struck him did not speak with either police or university officials. However a cell phone video of the incident was recorded and upwards of 50 witnesses were in the bar. No charges have been filed. According to The Washington Post, a university press release announced the termination Thursday morning. 'Jans was terminated following an investigation into his recent public conduct,' the statement read. 'The University concluded that Jans' public conduct failed to meet his obligations as a head coach and the expectations that BGSU Athletics has for its coaches.' Jans leaves the school after a single season, taking the team to its first postseason victory in 40 years. His final record there stands at 21-12. He was formerly an assistant at Wichita State before he signed with Bowling Green. His six year contract was valued at $325,000.

Chris Jans was fired for 'acting aggressively and inappropriately' at the bar on March 21 . Parents of woman he touched at the local venue filmed his behavior . They also accused him of moving a woman's head towards his crotch . Made one girl walk infront of him so he could 'evaluate her assets' Jans, who had a $325,000 contract, is married and has two children . University said his behavior 'failed to meet the obligations of a head coach'