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This is the time of the year when Christians the world over -- more than 2 billion of us -- reflect upon the crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord. In light of the tragic massacre of Christian college students in Kenya on Thursday, and the ongoing threat against Christians in other nations, this Holy Week we are calling upon Christians to also reflect upon the crucifixion, beheading, stoning, enforced slavery, sexual abuse, human trafficking, harassment, bombing and displacement of hundreds of thousands of Christians -- and others -- whose faith alone has made them a target of religious extremists. Countless lives have been utterly destroyed in nations such as Iraq, Syria, Libya, Pakistan, India, Egypt, Kenya and Nigeria. In June 2012, Bishop Shlemon Warduni of Iraq told the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, "We beg you to help. We want only peace, security, and freedom. Please no more death, no more explosions, no more injustice." By then, nearly every remaining church in Iraq had constructed a blast wall around its building to buffet the threat of the inevitable church bombing. This crisis escalated substantially last summer when ISIS swept like lightning through Iraq's Nineveh province, capturing the country's second-largest city, Mosul; a city that was until 2014 a home of a thriving Christian community, there centuries before Islam. Again and again the world did not respond as it might have, and now the inconceivable has happened: Iraq's Nineveh Plain has been emptied of its ancient Christianity community, which existed there for more than 1,500 years. On March 27, in a presentation to the U.N. Security Council, Chaldean Catholic Patriarch Louis Raphael Sako referred to the present reality of his fellow Iraqi Christians as a "catastrophic situation." He's right. Rarely since the first century has the church in the East faced persecution on this scale. Christian communities that took 2,000 years to build, and that were started by the apostles themselves, lie in ashes between the Tigris and the Euphrates. Survivors waste away as refugees, often in deplorable conditions, with no homes or churches to return to if the region eventually stabilizes. Whether they be Catholic, Orthodox or Protestant, Christian communities are united in what Pope Francis has called an "ecumenism of blood," recognizing that Christianity is experiencing more martyrdom today than in the first century. This is not an exaggerated or contrived crisis. As Nina Shea, director of the Hudson's Institute's Center for Religious Freedom, has aptly put it, "Piece by piece, Middle Eastern Christianity is being shattered." Our concern is not to the exclusion of anyone else under threat by these religious fanatics, and we reject those who believe that this evil is reflective of the majority of Muslims whose community has actually experienced the most casualties in this conflict. It is also true that Christianity faces a legitimate threat of extinction in several parts of Iraq and Syria and it faces a growing threat in nations such as Nigeria. In solidarity with those being threatened we agree with the words delivered by Jordan's King Abdullah II at the United Nations last fall, "Christians are an integral part of [the Middle East's] past, present and future." When history writes of our time will we be able to say that we tried everything in our power to cease this attempt to eliminate 2,000 years of Christianity from the Middle East and to stop this threat before it spreads to other nations? These communities need our love and support like never before, and they also need security and protection from the world like never before. This Easter we reflect upon the words of a Christian who was himself beheaded for his faith alone. He converted to Christianity one day on a road to Damascus, Syria, when his name was changed from Saul to Paul. In a letter to Christians living in another dangerous place in another persecuted time, he wrote, "Pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people." This Easter, let us earnestly pray with all the love of Christ for all those in harm's way.

Rarely since the first century have Christians faced persecution on this scale, say Dolan, Downey and Burnett. Crisis escalated substantially as ISIS has swept through Iraq's Nineveh province, the authors write.

Istanbul, Turkey (CNN)The questions Turks asked on Tuesday were tinged with fear. "What's going on? What happened? Why can't I get into the subway?" asked an elderly woman in a white headscarf with several shopping bags as she stood outside the barricaded entrance to one of Istanbul's busiest subway stations. She was one of millions of Turks left confused and concerned by the worst power outage to grip the country in more than a decade. Dozens of cities across Turkey lost power for hours on Tuesday. Millions of people were affected, including passengers stranded on paralyzed trains and subways. Municipal workers were forced to evacuate Istanbul's Marmaray Tunnel, where the black-out left commuters trapped deep beneath the rushing waters of the Bosphorus Strait. More than 24 hours later, Turkish officials were still at pains to explain the power outage. The energy minister suggested a possible failure in transmission lines. The prime minister did not rule out the possibility of a terror attack. The mysterious collapse of much of the country's energy grid triggered a burst of wild conspiracy theories across social media. Some Twitter users went so far as to suggest the black-outs were a warm up for elections scheduled to take place in June. There is fertile ground for rumor-mongering in Turkey. Over the last five years, security forces have arrested hundreds of army generals, journalists, prosecutors, civil society activists and police commanders and accused them of being members of assorted plots aimed at toppling the government. The government's increasingly heavy-handed repression of public dissent, combined with overt censorship of the media and the internet, have also contributed to a hyper-polarized and deeply mistrustful political atmosphere. Even Turkey's veteran deputy prime minister, Bulent Arinc, recently observed that opposition supporters now look at him "with hatred" rather than the grudging respect he enjoyed when his political party first swept to power in elections in 2002. Meanwhile, mysterious black-outs are a sore spot for some Turks, after a surreal 2014 incident on election night -- allegedly involving a feline saboteur. That is -- a cat that allegedly wandered into a power transformer. That was almost exactly a year ago, a smaller series of power outages affected some polling stations during nationwide municipal elections, prompting unsubstantiated accusations of vote rigging. The ruling Justice and Development Party ended up winning by a comfortable margin, but few Turks were reassured by the energy minister's explanation that the voting day black-outs were caused by a cat getting lost. As electricity was just starting to come back on in Istanbul on Tuesday, a second crisis erupted. Websites linked to an extremist leftist militant group known as the DHKP-C began publishing chilling photos of a masked man holding a pistol to the head of a hostage in front of communist flags. Two gunmen had somehow infiltrated the Palace of Justice, the monolithic court house in the center of Istanbul. There they took hostage Mehmet Selim Kiraz, the prosecutor in charge of one of the most politically sensitive trials in the country. The gunmen demanded the confessions of police officers accused of shooting a tear gas canister at Berkin Elvan, a 15-year-old boy who was critically wounded during anti-government protests that raged across Istanbul in 2013. The boy's death after months in a medically-induced coma triggered a fresh burst of protests and riots against the government. On Tuesday, in the midst of the hostage crisis at the court house, the Turkish government imposed a gag order banning broadcasters from reporting on the Palace of Justice siege. The broadcast ban is a measure that the Turkish government has repeatedly used in recent years to stifle reporting on deadly terrorist attacks. The government also famously shut down Twitter and YouTube in an effort to kill highly embarrassing political scandals involving corruption. Ultimately, Tuesday's court house siege ended in a deadly hail of bullets that left both gunmen dead and the prosecutor mortally wounded. Turkish officials say special forces raided the court house only after the militants began shooting. Online and in the streets, some Turks began linking the massive electricity blackouts to the hostage-taking inside one of Turkey's best-protected buildings, even though there is little to suggest the two incidents are connected. Just hours after the shooting, tensions exploded yet again at the court house. Istanbul's police chief had called for a press conference. As journalists jostled their way through security at the entrance to the largely deserted courthouse, some bystanders began chanting "government thieves." Just hours after a devastating lapse of security at the Palace of Justice, police began detaining the demonstrators hurling abuse at their elected government. The reactions to Tuesday's bewildering series of events revealed several truths about contemporary Turkey. The country is tense and confused after years of back-to-back political crises. Heavy-handed censorship has left the mainstream media widely distrusted and discredited by broad segments of society. And the absence of a common, credible space for sharing information has pushed critics of the government to the fringes of social media. Amid the burst of optimism and civil society activism in the early heady days of the Arab Spring in 2011, Turkey was often cited as a possible democratic model for countries in the Middle East. Many of those Arab countries have since descended into conflict, repression and instability. In the meantime, Turkey feels increasingly vulnerable to demons of its own making.

This week, Turkey was gripped by a massive power outage and a deadly hostage crisis. Reactions reveal contemporary Turkey is tense and confused after years of political crises. Censorship has pushed critics to fringes in country cited as democratic model for Mideast.

As his military career winds down, Britain's Prince Harry is going to be spending some time down under. The 30-year-old prince is due to arrive Monday in Australia for a four-week stint with the armed forces there. Harry "will work and live alongside colleagues in the Australian Army in a number of regiments in Sydney, Darwin and Perth," the Australian Defence Forces said Thursday. He has already spent time with Australian troops on a number of occasions during his 10-year military career, a spokesman said. "Prince Harry has trained and served alongside Australian armed forces on operational tours to Afghanistan; he has met them during the Invictus Games; and even trekked to the South Pole with a couple of Australian soldiers," the spokesman said. The younger son of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, Harry is known in the British Army as "Captain Harry Wales," from his official title and name, His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales. He began his formal military duties in 2005 at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Last month, he announced that he would be leaving the armed forces in June, describing the decision as "really tough." Australian military officials say the prince's program with them will be "challenging." It will involve training in urban settings and patrolling the Australian bush, as well as aviation activities and fire exercises. He'll also participate in regular activities like physical training and pack marches, the Australian military said. Harry will also spend time meeting wounded, injured and ill service members in Australia. "Wounded warriors" are a special interest for Prince Harry. He helped spearhead and continues to champion the Invictus Games, a competition for former military personnel who have been wounded in the line of duty. Before he reports for duty Monday, the prince will lay a wreath at the war memorial in the Australian capital, Canberra. During his attachment with the Australian military, Harry will accompany Charles on a trip to Turkey at the end of April for commemorations on the anniversary of the World War I Battle of Gallipoli. CNN's Max Foster contributed to this report.

Prince Harry is to begin a monthlong military attachment in Australia. He'll be leaving the British armed forces in June.

Most days, 16-year-old Jason Zobott walks into Huntley High School in suburban Chicago around 7:30 a.m. like any high schooler might. It's what he does the rest of the day that's not so typical. Zobott is enrolled in Huntley High's blended learning program, which merges Internet-based instruction with a more traditional classroom setting. One-third of the school's 2,700 students are enrolled. In 2015, the school is working toward enrolling the majority of its students. "Having to work online makes it really accessible to do the work that I have to get done," said Zobott, a top-ranked junior who balances a heavy load of extracurricular activities with schoolwork. "I can learn on my own. I can work at the pace I want to work. And I learn the way I want to learn." Huntley High School students and educators often refer to the program simply as "blended." It allows teachers to write the curriculum, with students giving feedback about the focus. Unlike many traditional online learning programs, students have the option of a flexible schedule during allotted blended learning days. Some days they meet with teachers, and some days they work online, according to Anne Pasco, who heads the school's educational technology efforts. "In blended learning, we focus on the content. We don't focus on needing to cover X amount of material," Pasco said. "Blended allows us to provide a stable environment that gives students the ability to spread their wings a bit, while we have the safety net of pulling them back into class if they need it." The "homegrown" program, which launched in 2011, gives students who struggle in certain content areas more one-on-one time with teachers during the school day, Pasco said. "Before blended, that had to happen after school or before school or on Saturday or maybe not at all, because we had too many other activities that encroach upon (students') academic day," Pasco said. "Now, this student can work one-on-one with that teacher during the school day." Teachers can monitor students' progress and track lesson plans online to see how much time students spend on a specific assignment. Teachers are allowed to restructure the class schedule based on students' needs. "There's actually much better accountability," said John Burkey, the superintendent for Huntley High's school district, which includes about 9,500 students. "Blended learning is not a panacea, and the success of the program isn't about spending a bunch of money on technology. Rather, [it's] looking at what students actually need, and building a culture of innovation to meet those needs." Burkey said there were plenty of questions about blended learning when it was first introduced to the Chicago district in 2011. One concern: How was the district going to pay for it? It turns out the blended learning program spends about $8,500 per student, less than the Illinois average of $12,000 per student. "We spend considerably less than the average school district. We don't have a lot of resources compared to many districts," Burkey said. "We did not put new money into this. What we did is change the old things we were doing and changed them into new ways. It's really a change in how you think of high school. This is not a more expensive option." It has worked. In a study published in 2014 in eLearn magazine, 92% of students surveyed at Huntley High said that they were satisfied with the blended learning experience, and no teachers reported negative experiences with it. The school is also seeing higher standardized testing scores. "The growth of blended certainly has corresponded with an overall rise in ACT scores," district spokesman Dan Armstrong said. Since blended learning was implemented, Huntley High's average composite ACT score has gone up nearly a point, from 22.1 to 23.0. For 16-year-old Zobott, the advantage is time management. Three of his courses are advanced placement. He also plays varsity basketball and club soccer and works part time. The blended learning program helps him better prioritize his busy schedule. "Having blended gives us time to work on them, and get stuff done efficiently so we have more time during the week to do other things," he said. What's still left to be determined about blended learning is how well students do in college or jobs after they graduate, Burkey said. "I think we're still in the infancy of this," Burkey said. "It's still such a new thing, and we're all excited about it. My own kids are still in elementary and middle school, so they have not done blended learning yet, but they definitely will when they get to high school."

Huntley High School in Huntley, Illinois, offers a blended learning program. It allows students to combine online learning with in-person teacher instruction.

The verdict of the opinion polls on the UK election debate between seven party leaders was simple enough: Between David Cameron of the Conservatives, Ed Miliband of Labour, Nick Clegg of the Liberal Democrats, Nigel Farage of the United Kingdom Independence Party, Natalie Bennett of the Green Party, Nicola Sturgeon of the Scottish National Party and Leanne Wood of Plaid Cymru, the Welsh Nationalists, there really was no clear winner. Comres for ITV, which staged the debate, had Cameron, Miliband and Farage tied first with 21% and Sturgeon close behind on 20%. ICM for The Guardian scored it Miliband 25, Cameron 24, Farage 19 and Sturgeon 17. YouGov for The Times put Sturgeon first with 28 points to 20 for Farage, 18 for Cameron and only 15 for Miliband. Back in the 1950s, UK politics was simpler: Labour and Conservatives combined took 97% of the votes. But nowadays they struggle to collect two-thirds of the national vote between them. In our anti-politics age nationalists and others have advanced and the leaders' TV debate was no gladiatorial contest with a straightforward outcome. Rather it was a cacophonous shouting match that probably gave all parties' supporters some satisfaction but which offered little new insight to the undecided voter. From a highly confused affair we can perhaps take six lessons:. As the incumbent Prime Minister, Cameron is probably wise to have refused all invitations to go head to head with Miliband alone in verbal fisticuffs. He has risked being labelled a coward for doing so but it was a tactical decision. Miliband has been given a hard time by the British media who have gloated over his difficulties in eating a bacon sandwich and presented him as an awkward geek. But Labour's leader is a perfectly capable debater. He could only gain from their confrontation. As it is, election time media exposure has already seen Miliband's ratings as a leader improve. The electoral strengths and weaknesses of the two main leaders are emerging. In an earlier clash involving separate sessions before a studio audience and in a grilling by UK TV's Grand Inquisitor Jeremy Paxman, Cameron proved vulnerable on broken promises to cut immigration, on the number of people employed on zero-hours contracts and on being too kind to the rich in his taxation policies. Miliband has looked unconvincing on how he will fund his promises to continue cutting the budget deficit and how he will curb immigration; he also is still embarrassed when questioners remind audiences how he knifed his brother David to get the leader's job. The impression so far is that Britain's voters don't much like the Conservatives despite the recovering economy but don't quite trust Labour to continue the improvement. Miliband, told by his handlers to look tough, is using the "i" word too much. Cameron is curiously short on passion. An oddity of the Seven Up debate was that many who viewed it will have no chance of voting for two of the leaders involved, Sturgeon of the Scottish National Party and Wood of Plaid Cymru. But Sturgeon's high score in the post-debate polls was significant. She was sharp and sassy. The number of seats gained by the Nationalists, currently on target to win as many as 50 of the 59 Westminster Parliament seats in Scotland, will be crucial. Last time Labour won 41 of those seats: The more the SNP take, the weaker Labour's chance of a majority at Westminster will be. Miliband says he won't form a coalition with the SNP but it could be difficult for Labour to govern without some deal with their bitter opponents north of the border. If there was a "winner" in the debate it was Nicola Sturgeon. Back in the 2010 UK election debates the clear victor was Clegg of the Liberal Democrats. Then the two main party leaders frequently found themselves parroting "I agree with Nick." By entering a coalition government with Cameron (in which the Lib Dems' insistence on raising the tax threshold for the lower paid has been a key element in increasing employment and economic recovery), Clegg surrendered the Lib Dems' previous ability to pick up protest votes. Clegg and his party have paid a heavy price for the compromises made in government, notably on student tuition fees. His debate performance was as good as any of the seven leaders but no poll gave him a rating of better than 10%. Perception is everything. In social media and studio focus groups there were plenty of plaudits for the Greens and even for Plaid Cymru's Wood but Clegg got hardly a mention. The United Kingdom Independence Party remains the joker in the pack. The party once dismissed by Cameron as a collection of "fruitcakes, loonies and closet racists" is a serious threat to the Conservatives -- and Labour -- despite the many gaffes that seemed to cost it some momentum lately. But UKIP, more than any of the others, is a personal vehicle for its leader and the debate was crucial for them. Grinning Farage's blokey saloon bar manner goes down well with studio audiences and he kept the focus on immigration. His party won't win many seats but he has ensured they can still tip the balance in plenty of contests, sometimes taking votes off the Conservatives, sometimes off Labour. Farage has always traded on the outer edge of political civilities and by insisting in the debate that immigrants were responsible for 60% of HIV cases he earned condemnation from other leaders. On social media, dominated by the young, that earned him the maximum boo count. To "win" a TV election debate you need to avoid gaffes yourself, to wrongfoot your opponent, and to offer some excitement that gives your campaign the chance to develop momentum. You need to produce vivid soundbites which will work their way into summary reports of the debates and into campaign replays. Nobody has yet succeeded in doing that in this campaign. The highly paid spin doctors employed by the three major parties are simply not worth their money. The emphasis has been on sound defense: Nobody has yet scored an exciting goal. As the campaign moves on, chances will have to be taken. READ: Fish, bacon and beer: The real issues in Britain's election.

No clear winner in opinion polls after first UK election debate between seven party leaders. Robin Oakley says David Cameron and challenger Ed Miliband did well, but there was little insight for voters.

Video may have killed the radio star, but in Norway it's digital that's killing FM radio. In two years' time, the Scandinavian nation is slated to become the first in the world to phase out radio entirely. That doesn't mean that Norwegians will be left with radio silence; they'll merely have to tune in digitally. According to officials in Oslo, many in this nation of 5 million have already made the move. On FM, Norwegians can only find five stations. On the Digital Audio Broadcasting network, there are four times that number. Half the country already listens that way, said Culture Minister Thorhild Widvey. "Listeners will have access to more diverse and pluralistic radio-content, and enjoy better sound quality and new functionality," Widvey said in a news release. Officials say the move will spur innovation because the cost of digital transmission will save some $25 million. But the country's radio waves won't cut out all once, a blog post on Radio.no explained. Radio will be phased out region by region, starting in January 2017 and concluding in December.

On FM, Norwegians can only find five stations. Digitally, there are four times that number.

Hong Kong (CNN)An impressive art collection assembled by the late actress and Hollywood icon, Lauren Bacall, has officially been offered for purchase. The collection, which includes works by some of the greatest artists of the 20th century, went under the hammer in New York on March 31, following a tour of Hong Kong, Paris, London and Los Angeles. Bacall, who died in August 2014 at the age of 89, first shot to international fame in 1944 with her first film, "To Have And Have Not." That was also when the husky-voiced starlet met her future husband, Humphrey Bogart. At the recent 2015 Golden Globes, George Clooney paid tribute to the silver screen queen in his award winning speech. "I don't remember what awards Lauren Bacall won, I just remember her saying: 'You know how to whistle, don't you Steve. You just put your lips together and blow.'" said Clooney, referring to one of her most legendary lines from her first movie. The 750-piece collection, which fetched a total of $3.64 million, featured bronze sculptures, jewelry, and a number of decorative arts and paintings, which were sold at Bonhams auction house in New York. "Her collection is truly a reflection of her extraordinary taste and remarkable life," said Jon King, Bonhams' vice president. Among the 50 items highlighted in the auction preview were six bronze maquettes by Henry Moore, Britain's greatest 20th century sculptor and one of Bacall's favorite artists, whom she developed a close relationship with. One of them sold for close to $120,000. Also for sale were some of Bacall's most loved jewelry pieces, created by legendary French designer Jean Schlumberger, most known for his work at Tiffany & Co. A rose diamond camel brooch by British jeweler Elizabeth Gage fetched $23,750 and was accompanied by the original drawing and correspondence from the designer, which shows the close-knit relationship Bacall had with Gage. The wide-ranging collection was expected to appeal to a variety of collectors: fine arts and antiques dealers, fans of Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart, as well as memorabilia enthusiasts. Most of the items auctioned come from the apartment in New York's Dakota Building that she shared with her second husband, actor Jason Robards, until 1969. But King said fans of Humphrey Bogart would have been pleased to know some of the items were also from their shared residence in Los Angeles. King, who got to know Bacall in her late years, said the collection reflects the actress' eclectic taste, and there was only one principle she applied to collecting:. "Everything had to kind of speak to her, to catch her eye. She loved form, she loved texture, she loved color. And she loved mixing it all up. She said that when you walked into her house, what she liked was that it was never boring," King said. "You could walk into the same room a hundred times, and see something new every time."

A collection of 750 items belonging to legendary actress Lauren Bacall has been auctioned off at Bonhams in New York. Highlights from the lot, which fetched $3.6 million, include bronze sculptures, jewelry, and a number of decorative arts and paintings.

The idea of sustainable development is that raw capitalism is far too powerful for its own good. Global capitalism is a juggernaut, with the world economy now doubling in size every generation. Yet on a finite Earth, with a billion new people being added every 15 years, that juggernaut is now laying siege to the physical bases of life and the social support systems that make life pleasant and decent. Sustainable development offers a path out of this growing crisis. The reality is that raw capitalism is the economics of greed. Unleash greed, the theory goes, and type-A personalities around the world will spend inordinate energy to organize businesses, invent new products, and thereby raise well-being. And in some sense, there's a lot to say for this theory. After all, the world economy has expanded at least 100-fold since modern industrial capitalism first found its footing in Britain around 1800, and for most of the world, living standards have risen markedly along the way. Yet history has also taught us that the "Invisible Hand" of the free market is a little less miraculous than it looks. Instead, untrammeled greed also leads to massive fraud, mega-tax evasion, pervasive bribery, modern slavery, rising inequalities, and environmental destruction. Perhaps most important, it feeds moral blindness. Too many of the super-rich, whether they are calling for drilling in the Arctic for oil or encouraging the cutting down of the rainforests for tropical hardwoods, simply deny the irreparable damage they are causing to the planet. It¹s no surprise that the Wall Street Journal runs anti-environmental editorials on what feels like a daily basis. The environment is a nuisance and a hindrance to greed. And greed rules the moral order at the top of raw capitalism. Novelists, ethicists, activists, unionists, preachers, teachers, and others have long known these facts, but the juggernaut has proved hard to tame. Unleash greed as the supreme economic good, and it is greed that we get as the ultimate moral arbiter. Sustainable development is a doctrine that says: Let us once again place the economy on a true moral foundation and we'll keep greed within bounds, ensuring the economic growth is combined with social fairness and environmental sustainability. The idea of sustainable development is that an economy must satisfy all three principles: economic growth, social fairness and environmental sustainability. Yes, there can and should be economic growth, especially for today's developing countries. Human ingenuity and markets can indeed lead us to higher living standards and longer lives for all parts of the world, rich and poor alike. But these gains should be widely shared and should never be based on the exploitation of those at the bottom of society. Social inclusion has been widely shown to improve societal progress broadly for all. And equally important, those gains should be based on true value added, not on the destruction of natural capital, whether through deforestation, climate change, or pollution of air, land, and water. Thus, sustainable development calls for a holistic approach that combines economic, social, and environmental objectives. This balanced approach is much harder to achieve than the raw capitalism that places the economy above society and the physical Earth. Yet it recognizes that we are doomed to conflict and even collapse if we fail to promote social equality and environmental sustainability. Just look at the recent news. Last year was the Earth's hottest year on record, and another year of mega-storms, droughts, floods, and heat waves. Major parts of the world, from Pakistan and Iran to California and Brazil, are experiencing mega-droughts, and the prospect of catastrophic water scarcity in the future unless something changes. And even as the world economy grows and millions escape extreme poverty, our societies become more unequal, less trusting, and corrupt. All over the world, there is unrest on the streets even as our generation is the beneficiary of unprecedented technological knowhow and material progress. In my new book, The Age of Sustainable Development, I¹ve not only analyzed the trends of growing inequality and rising environmental destruction, but have also shown how the concepts of sustainable development can be used to chart a way out of our growing crisis. It turns out that with goodwill, cooperation, greed kept in check, and technological savvy, we can build a modern global economy that is productive, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable all at the same time. The ongoing revolution of information and communications technology (ICT) is an incredibly powerful enabler of new sustainable technologies. And doubters about the feasibility of sustainable development should have a look at Scandinavia ¬ Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, as they are the closest on the planet to achieving this Trifecta of prosperity, fairness, and sustainability. Consider the challenge of climate change, for example. Big Oil and Wall Street executives too often simply deny the science. Yet a science-based sustainable development perspective shows that not only is human-induced climate change very real and very dangerous, but that it is also solvable at very low cost by switching over the next 30 years to electric vehicles, heat pumps, well-insulated buildings, smart ICT-enabled grid, wind and solar energy, and other low-carbon and energy efficient technologies. If the world takes the time to do its homework and plan for the future, the world can bring the climate crisis under control and still enjoy a growing supply of quality energy services. And, more generally, although the U.S. political system still feeds untrammeled greed by enabling super-rich campaign donors and lobbyists to buy the political class, the American people and much of the rest of the world are coming to recognize the urgency of sustainable development. That is why governments around the world will adopt Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this year, on the 70th anniversary of the United Nations. These new SDGs will become markers and guideposts for building a world that combines prosperity, fairness, and environmental sanity -- a world we truly want and need for ourselves and our children.

Jeffrey Sachs: Raw capitalism is the economics of greed. Last year was the Earth's hottest year on record, he says.

China's cybercensors have long used a "Great Firewall" to block its citizens from reading critical articles from Western news websites or consuming other content it disapproves of. But it's no longer enough for them, says a study published Friday. They've developed a new IT weapon and have attacked servers outside their borders, including in the United States. The study's authors have named it the "Great Cannon," and it operates in plain sight. Going on the attack so visibly and handily within another country's borders will probably draw international ire, the study's authors say, and Beijing may have counted on that. "This is a powerful attack capability, and we are curious about the risk and benefit analysis that led the Chinese government to reveal it with this highly visible denial of service attack," said researcher John Scott-Railton. The reason Chinese censors are taking that risk: Free-speech cyberactivists have found ways to get around the Great Firewall and give Chinese readers greater access to the West's free press. Enter the "Great Cannon." It blasts targeted Web servers with massive distributed denial of service attacks, and it uses the Web browsers of unsuspecting Web surfers to do it. The Cannon wrecked two online services with DDoS attacks in March, say the researchers from the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab, the International Computer Science Institute, the University of California-Berkeley and Princeton University. Many of the researchers focus on the abuse of information technology to undermine civil liberties and human rights. And they are afraid this new cyberweapon could easily be used for an array of powerful attacks beyond what they've already observed. "A modest technical change could turn the Great Cannon into a malware delivery device for infecting the computer of a target individual anywhere in the world who visits a Chinese server," Scott-Railton said. This might include all emails headed in and out of China, he said. "The device could replace genuine attachments with malicious files, for example." One of the Great Cannon's targets that the researchers studied was an obvious one -- Greatfire.org, run by Chinese expats bent on fighting Beijing's censorship. They monitor Chinese citizens' access to international news sites such as German news service Deutsche Welle or The Tibet Post. But the other target may seem odd at first glance. GitHub is a popular Silicon Valley hosting service used by programmers who want to share code with each other. The two attacks were connected, however, the study says. GreatFire.org hosted two GitHub repositories that contained computer code allowing Chinese readers to get around the Great Firewall and read The New York Times in Chinese. Critical articles from the Times are a particular fly in the ointment for Beijing, and China has turned away at least three of the paper's reporters in short succession, according to a U.S. congressional commission on China. GitHub said it thought the attackers were trying to coerce it into taking content offline. GreatFire.org says it suspects the attack may have been in response to a Wall Street Journal article on its struggle to circumvent Chinese censors. Both services suspected China was behind their attacks and used the Great Firewall to carry it out, according to statements and media reports. By triggering attacks and analyzing them, the researchers concluded that Beijing has developed a tool distinctly different from the Great Firewall. They are confident it is also in China and say it is technically similar to the Great Firewall. The firewall, in a manner of speaking, stands aside and watches all digital traffic going in and out of China, the researchers say. If it sees requests going out into the world for content it doesn't want citizens to see, the researchers say, it discreetly injects forged messages to the foreign server and the Chinese user's computer to make them stop communicating. The user might see an HTTP 403 reply -- "Sorry, you're not authorized to see this page." Not only does the Great Firewall monitor tons of traffic, but its systems have to do a lot of processing to discern what to block and what not, so it's work-intensive. The Great Cannon takes on a much lighter load, because it doesn't care about all that traffic. Instead, it targets traffic between a handful of Web addresses. But it uses Web traffic unrelated to its targets to build its attack against them. Users going to Baidu, one of China's most prolific Web services and most successful Internet companies, can become unknowing proxy warriors against the Great Cannon's targets, the study says. In the overwhelming number of cases, when traffic came into China from the outside world, the Great Cannon let it through to Baidu's advertising servers. But in a tiny fraction of the cases the researchers observed, it picked out computers it wanted to use in the attack, and sent bad code back to the user's browser. "The malicious script enlisted the requesting user as an unwitting participant in the DDoS attack against GreatFire.org and Github," the authors wrote. Their browsers mercilessly fired requests at both sites and paralyzed them. "At the time of writing they number 2.6 billion requests per hour," GreatFire.org wrote during an outage in March. "Websites are not equipped to handle that kind of volume so they usually 'break' and go offline." GitHub said the March incident was the biggest DDoS attack in its history. Back then, the programmers noticed that there were unique aspects about the attack. "These include every vector we've seen in previous attacks as well as some sophisticated new techniques that use the web browsers of unsuspecting, uninvolved people to flood github.com with high levels of traffic," they wrote. Baidu denies any involvement in the attacks and says its internal security has remained intact, the researchers said. But government cybercensors' monitoring of traffic to and from Baidu's servers could hurt its reputation as a major player in international commerce. Fully encrypting Web traffic should help to defend against the Great Cannon, Scott-Railton said. Chinese President Xi Jinping is a Communist Party hardliner, and since he took office in November 2012, Chinese citizens have felt the grip tightening again on freedoms they thought they had gained, journalists and activists say. Xi and the Politburo "are responding to new threats by falling back on repressive tactics" rather than "experimenting with more liberal policies," think tank Freedom House wrote in an analysis. And repression has particularly targeted grass-roots activists, online opinion leaders and ordinary citizens on the Internet. Xi also has a reputation for eyeing Western values with suspicion and considering American IT companies, such as Intel and Google, partners of the U.S. government. "Deployment of the GC (Great Cannon) may also reflect a desire to counter what the Chinese government perceives as U.S. hegemony in cyberspace," the researchers write. The authors say the United States and Great Britain already have methods for intercepting unencrypted traffic and launching attacks.

China's cybercensors have developed a new IT weapon and have attacked servers outside their borders. Attacks by the "Great Cannon" are in the open and could draw international ire, the authors of the study say.

Twenty years ago, on April 19, 1995, Timothy McVeigh detonated a massive truck bomb in front of the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. The attack killed 168 men, women and children, injured hundreds more, and remains the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. The attack's aftermath saw a storm of media coverage with themes such as "attack on the heartland" and America's "lost innocence." In fact, the bombing took the country by surprise. It wasn't simply the scale of the tragedy that drew attention, but the fact that the bombing exposed something new: American citizens targeting their own government with a deadliness hitherto unseen. The public became aware of the true danger of the extreme right. Reports connected McVeigh and his accomplice Terry Nichols to anti-government ideology movements, such as the militia movement, as well as to white supremacist causes. Law enforcement also played catchup. The Federal Bureau of Investigation's 1994 annual report on terrorism had given short shrift to the extreme right. Its coverage of domestic terrorism focused on the activities of Puerto Rican radicals and animal rights and environmental extremists. In contrast, the report spent only a paragraph describing the threat from right-wing extremists. It ignored the rapidly growing militia and sovereign citizen movements, and made no reference to events in Idaho and Texas. In late 1992, at Ruby Ridge, Idaho, a standoff between U.S. Marshals and Randy Weaver's family resulted in the death of a marshal, a young boy and the boy's unarmed mother. And in 1993, federal agents launched an ill-conceived raid on property near Waco, Texas, belonging to the Branch Davidians sect, leading to a bloody shootout and a 51-day standoff, which ended in the death of almost all the Davidians, including a number of children. These incidents infuriated the entire extreme right, which saw them as deliberate attempts by the government to kill American citizens. After Oklahoma City, everything changed. The FBI shifted its priorities, hiring new agents and reassigning staff to work on domestic terrorism cases. It significantly expanded the number of Joint Terrorism Task Forces and went to Congress with a lengthy "want" list. The effort actually paid off. Increased scrutiny of right-wing extremists resulted in a flurry of arrests for everything from terrorist plots to hate crimes. Though it had paid a high price to do so, it seemed that the United States had recognized the dangers that right-wing extremists posed. However, just six years after the Oklahoma City bombing, an event occurred that pushed to the background those lessons so dearly won. The September 11, 2001, terror attacks -- attacks of a scale and ferocity that dwarfed even that of the Oklahoma City bombing -- commanded the full attention of the nation. The government, law enforcement, the news media and the public all rushed to grapple with the issue of Islamic extremism. Unfortunately, rather than expanding national attention to encompass the dangers of both radical Islam and right-wing extremism, the 9/11 attacks simply shifted attention away from the extreme right. Certainly, the 9/11 attacks warranted great attention. They made starkly clear the threat that international radical Islamist groups posed to the United States. Moreover, the surge of right-wing extremism that marked the 1990s had seemingly ebbed. Thus it is no real surprise that concern over right-wing violence faded into the background. The significance of the Oklahoma City bombing, in terms of its service as a warning about right-wing violence, became greatly lessened. This is a lesson that Americans must now recall and recover. Radical Islam, whether abroad or homegrown, represents a serious threat to the safety and security of Americans. But right-wing extremism did not disappear after September 11. Its history since the Oklahoma City bombing has consisted of a steady stream of plots, conspiracies, terrorist acts, and hate crimes. It, too, represents a serious threat. In fact, in recent years, violence from the extreme right has again surged—and at levels reminiscent of the dark days of the 1990s. From 1995 through 2000, according to statistics from the Anti-Defamation League's Center on Extremism, right-wing extremists were responsible for at least 47 different terrorist acts, conspiracies or plots. However, during the past six years, from 2009 through 2014, right-wing extremists in the U.S. were involved in at least 42 actual or attempted terrorist acts. In other words, right-wing violence today is actually at or very close to levels during the days of the Oklahoma City bombing. These statistics illustrate that "homegrown violent extremism" is not limited to extremism motivated by radical Islam. The anger and hate that generated the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995 is still around in 2015—and still dangerous. The 20th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing provides a new opportunity for us to ensure that its significance does not disappear from the public eye. What the tragedies of 1995 and 2001 together teach is that the United States faces threats from multiple sources of extremism, all of which must be taken seriously. Consequently, Americans must have the wisdom to respond effectively and intelligently to ideological violence stemming from all sources. That would be the most positive way to pay homage to the victims of April 19, 1995.

Twenty years ago, on April 19, 1995, Timothy McVeigh set off a massive bomb in Oklahoma City. Deborah Lauter and Mark Pitcavage: Right-wing extremism should still be taken seriously.

Financially-troubled CSKA Sofia's Latvian goalkeeper Maksims Uvarenko has not been paid for three months and has had to ask his parents to send him money to pay his rent. But despite the financial problems, Uvarenko, who joined the Bulgarian club on an 18-month contract in January, has been impressed by the 'unique' fans and their passionate support. 'The lack of money is the biggest problem I've faced at CSKA, Uvarenko told local media on Wednesday. 'I still haven't received any salary and I've been at the club for three months. Goalkeeper Maksims Ukarov has not been paid by CSKA Sofia since joining the club in January. 'My wife and I are expecting a child and we can't afford to stay without money. I was forced to accept some cash from my parents to pay the rent on our apartment in Sofia.' Debt-ridden CSKA have already issued a desperate plea to fans to provide emergency financial backing to avoid expulsion from the Bulgarian top division over debts. Supporters and fan clubs based overseas have made donations in the last few days and CSKA chairman Alexander Tomov said The Reds will meet the Bulgarian Football Union's (BFU) licensing criteria. 'CSKA fans are unique,' Uvarenko said. 'I am impressed by their temperament and support. Every game is a big thrill for me.' CSKA have faced a series of financial problems since Bulgarian tycoon Vasil Bozhkov, considered one of the richest men in the Black Sea state, decided to sell the club in 2006. A general view of CSKA Sofia's home ground, the Bulgarian Army Stadium, during a league match in 2012. Bozhkov angered CSKA fans by sacking Serbian coach Miodrag Yesic and that decision was followed by frequent disputes between the supporters and the club management. Nine years after Bozhkov's departure, CSKA are beset by financial problems after paying large transfer fees and high wages for players and coaches while not settling debts to the National Social Security Institute and National Revenue Agency. In happier times, CSKA reached the semi-finals in two European Cup campaigns (1967 and 1981) and the now defunct European Cup Winners' Cup (1989). The 31-times Bulgarian champions, who are one of the two most popular clubs in the Balkan country alongside city rivals Levski Sofia, are second in the standings with 45 points from 23 matches, three points behind champions Ludogorets. CSKA visit Ludogorets on Saturday with several local businessmen announcing that the CSKA players would receive tempting bonuses if they beat the Razgrad-based side, who have won the title for the last three seasons.

Maksims Uvarenko revealed he has not been paid for three months. The CSKA Sofia goalkeeper asked his parents to send him rent money. The Bulgarian club are struggling with financial problems.

Former pub landlord Michael Thorpe has had his conviction for illegally showing foreign footage of Premier League games overturned after eight years. A pub landlord convicted of showing Premier League football matches on foreign TV channels has won an eight-year legal battle to clear his name. Michael Thorpe says he has paid a heavy price for the lengthy fight to get his conviction quashed and has lost his pub as a result. Mr Thorpe, 55, was convicted of showing a Premier League game without having an agreement with official broadcasters in November 2006 at the Stoke Inn in Plymouth, Devon. He said he could not afford to pay Sky TV's rates for football matches, and opted instead to show Albanian transmissions of matches, which he says he thought was legal. But he was convicted, fined and ordered to pay costs eight years ago, when screening the matches was still treated as a criminal offence. Judge Recorder Nicolas Gerasimidis has now upheld his appeal and overturned the conviction following a landmark European court ruling. His appeal took so long as he had to launch the case after the European Court of Justice found enforcing previous rules was anti-competitive. Mr Thorpe said he was 'overwhelmed' that a judge and magistrates had upheld his appeal after all this time. But it is a bitter-sweet victory, as the long-running dispute cost him his business and his livelihood. He said: 'We put a lot of money into that pub and it went from a thriving business to absolutely zero. People stopped coming to the pub, it cost me my business.' Mr Thorpe launched an appeal against his conviction soon after his trial, but the case was delayed by a similar test case which went as far as the European Court of Justice. The court ruled that having an exclusive system was a restraint of free trade and contrary to European Law. But the landlord says the court action has seen him lose the Stoke Inn in Plymouth which he used to run. Mr Thorpe's appeal was further delayed until another case involving Media Protection Services Ltd, the company which took him to court on behalf of the Premier League, but which no longer does so. Mr Thorpe was awarded his legal costs, which he paid privately, but he would not disclose the sum. The European court decision in 2012 cleared a landlady of a criminal conviction, but judges left the door open for court action against publicans by ruling pubs should get permission from the copyright owner before screening matches. The Premier League has since been taking landlords to civil courts for breaching copyright, with some ordered to pay up to £65,000 in costs. The league sends teams of investigators to pubs around the country to try and catch those screening games illegally. Legal cases have been brought against 250 bars and pubs during the current football season. He said he does not know whether he can retrieve the £1,000 fine and £1,500 costs ordered by the magistrates. Despite the decision, the Premier League has insisted pubs still cannot show foreign-TV footage of its games. Since the European Court decision, it is taking landlords to civil courts and suing them using copyright laws, which were not affected by the previous ruling. In 2012, pub Karen Murphy landlady won a landmark legal battle to overturn her conviction for using foreign decoders instead of Sky to show Premier League football matches. Ms Murphy, who ran The Red, White and Blue pub in Portsmouth, Hampshire, bought games through a Greek satellite broadcaster Nova for £800 a year instead of Sky, which was then priced at £700-a-month. The Premier League took legal action against her Mrs Murphy and she was fined £8,000 for dishonest reception of a television reception in 2006. But a European Court of Justice ruling said having an exclusive system of TV rights was contrary to EU law and the High Court overturned her conviction. A recent investigation by trade publication, The Morning Advertiser, quoted a pub landlord saying Sky Sports cost him £16,000-a-year, compared to the £300-per-year of screening it illegally. The decision came after Portsmouth landlady Karen Murphy won a European court battle over her conviction. Despite the ruling, the Premier League can still take pub owners to civil courts over breach of copyright.

Landlord was convicted and fined for showing Albanian footage of games. But landmark European Court ruling has since ended such prosecutions. Landlord has now had convicted overturned but has since lost his pub. Premier League still taking landlords to civil court using copyrights laws.

Two college campus police officers in Dallas have been placed on administrative leave after shocking video footage surfaced of them harassing a group of four students and arresting one after first hitting him. The incident occurred at El Centro College and was captured on cell phone by student Charles Adams, who was smoking a cigarette when he witnessed the abuse at first hand last Wednesday. The officers approached the high school students while they were waiting for a bus outside the downtown Dallas campus. Scroll down for video. Two college campus police officers in Dallas have been placed on administrative leave after shocking video footage surfaced of them harassing a group of four students and arresting one after first hitting him. The footage shows the young men being ordered to face a brick wall, while one of the two campus cops searched, questioned, and even hit one of the teens. The school reportedly won't say why the teens were stopped and frisked, but Adams said he believes the officers totally overreacted. 'Instead of asking them to move along like she should have, she told them to put their hands against the wall, and that's where the video picks up,' Adams told WFAA. 'I was horrified the way she was treating these kids as criminals for nothing.' His cell phone video, which surfaced on You Tube, shows one of the students being slapped by an officer before she handcuffs him. 'I've got a lot of stuff on my belt I could use on you this afternoon. I guarantee you I will be glad to use it,' she is heard saying to another of the group. The school reportedly won't say why the teens were stopped and frisked, but the student will filmed the incident has said he believes the officers totally overreacted. She also asked them if they had any dope on them and then proceeds to search their pockets and grab at their clothes. El Centro College President Jose Adames has said a full investigation is underway. 'In this case we decided to do a thorough investigation, and place two officers on leave because of the interactions we saw in the video,' he told CBS DFW. The college has said it is seeking an opinion from the Texas attorney general and isn't releasing the police report because the subjects in the incident are minors. The school has 10,000 students and is part of the Dallas County Community College District. The incident occurred at El Centro College and was captured on cell phone by student Charles Adams, who was smoking a cigarette when he witnessed the abuse at first hand last Wednesday.

The officers have been placed on administrative leave after shocking video footage surfaced of them harassing a group of four students. The incident occurred at El Centro College in Dallas and was captured on cell phone by student Charles Adams. Footage shows the young men being ordered to face a brick wall, while one cop searched, questioned, and even hit one of the teens. El Centro College President Jose Adames has said a full investigation is underway.

Ian Murray reckons a supposedly easier run-in can swing second place Hibs' way ahead of Rangers in the last month of the Championship season. His Dumbarton side have faced both of his former teams in the league this term and will do so once again  in the final weeks of the campaign. But while Stuart McCall's men have the momentum at present - beating Hibs and Cowdenbeath while Alan Stubbs' men also lost to Raith - Murray wouldn't be surprised to see the balance of power swing back towards Easter Road before long. Dumbarton boss Ian Murray believes that Rangers will struggle to maintain their pace through the run-in. Rangers - currently level on points but having played a game less - still have two matches to play against title winners Hearts, including Sunday's match at Ibrox, while the Leith side take on their city rivals just once more. HIBS: April 4 Queen of the South (h); April 8 Dumbarton (a); April 12 Hearts (h); April 22 Livingston (a); April 25 Alloa (h); May 2 Falkirk (a) RANGERS: April 5 Hearts (h); April 9 Queen of the South (a); April 12 Raith (h); April 15 Livingston (a); April 18 Dumbarton (a); April 25 Falkirk (h); May 2 Hearts (a) 'Rangers got a good result against Cowdenbeath last Saturday to keep themselves in contention and I think it's going to be close but I still believe Hibs have the easier run-in,' said Murray. 'They do have tough games as well including one against Hearts and if they're serious about finishing second, they need to beat the likes of ourselves and Queen of the South at Easter Road this Saturday. 'The derby will take care of itself. I think it's going to be really tight and I can't see either side going through the rest of the season undefeated. Both will drop points. 'But the fact Rangers play Hearts twice and one of those games is on the final day of the season doesn't help them. With Hearts getting the trophy at Tynecastle after that match, it doesn't do them any favours as that's a game Rangers might need to win. 'Hibs were favourites to finish second for a while after they beat Rangers 4-0 at Easter Road then 2-0 at Ibrox and because of the lack of form Rangers were showing. Both wins were comfortable and suggested Hibs had overtaken Rangers. Although they've been pegged back since, I still think Hibs are slightly ahead.' Rangers' attacking midfielder Haris Vuckic, on loan from Newcastle, scores against Cowdenbeath at Irbox. The team finishing second face a potential four games to get back into the top flight, while the third team have a potential six. Murray's Dumbarton team are virtually assured of a place in next year's second tier thanks to a 14-point lead over second-bottom Cowdenbeath and could become mathematically safe this weekend after they play Jimmy Nicholl's strugglers on Saturday. But the 34-year-old is adamant his side will still have plenty to play for as they look to have a say in who goes up and down. Murray added: 'We'll play Cowdenbeath and Alloa which is obviously huge for them at the bottom of the table. 'We still have to go to Queens and we've got Rangers and Hibs at home so we've got games that are meaningful for others. 'There's no pressure on us at all now so we can go out and play with a bit more freedom and be a bit more relaxed than normal. 'But it won't be a case of us not turning up. We want to get as big a gap as we can between ourselves and the relegation places.'

Dumbarton boss Ian Murray believes Rangers' tough run-in could mean they miss out on second place in the Scottish Championship to Hibernian. Rangers face difficult fixtures against Hearts and Queen of the South. Murray played for both Rangers and Hibs during his career.

Police in Oregon are enlisting the help of the public to identify a mystery motorcyclist who saved the day after a man allegedly threatened two teens with a handgun. In a scene worthy of a Stan Lee comic, a man allegedly pulled a gun on two teenagers in Salem telling them, 'get ready to die.' Just then, a stranger on a green motorcycle swooped in and used his helmet to knock the gun out of the man's hands, allowing the teens to escape. Mystery: Police in Oregon are enlisting the help of the public to identify a mystery motorcyclist who saved the day after Edward West, 59 (photographed) allegedly threatened two teens with a handgun. Police say the two 17-year-old boys were crossing Center Street when Edward West, 59, yelled for them to get out of the road, Oregon Live reports . The boys yelled back and West pulled in to a nearby parking lot to confront them. The three argued with West pushing the boys and eventually slapping one. The boys attempted to leave the area, the Statesman Journal reports, that's when West retrieved the small, black handgun from his truck and pointed it at the boys. Argued: The three argued in a parking lot (photographed) with West pushing the boys and eventually slapping one. The mystery rider saw the altercation and intervened just in the nick of time before riding away. The boys say they didn't get a good look at the rider, but the Marion County Sheriff's office is asking the public to help identify the friendly neighborhood motorcyclist. West was arrested and charged with menacing, harassment, assault, and unlawful use of a weapon, the Journal reports. He has been booked at the Marion County jail and is set to appear in court on April 9. Mystery Rider: The boys say they didn't get a good look at the rider, but the Marion County Sheriff's office is asking the public to help identify the friendly neighborhood motorcyclist (stock image)

Oregon police are looking for the mystery motorcyclist who saved two boys from a gunman, Edward West. West allegedly confronted the boys after an argument and told them to 'get ready to die' The rider swooped in and used his helmet to knock the gun from West's hands, allowing the boys to escape unharmed.

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

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

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

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

A former footballer who fronted a £30million investment scheme and lived a millionaire's lifestyle is now 'surviving on handouts', a court has heard. Michael McIndoe, who played for Bristol City and Wolverhampton Wanderers, lured fellow footballers into the scheme with promises of a huge 20 per cent return. But the scheme collapsed amid mounting debts and the tricky winger was declared bankrupt in October last year with more than £2million debts. The footballer - who was known as 'Mr Big' in Marbella, where he partied with glamorous girls, is now being chased through the courts by creditors. McIndoe, circled smoking on a cigar, lived a millionaire's lifestyle but is now surviving on handouts. The former winger revelled in the glamorous lifestyle after persuading fellow players to sign up to the scheme. McIndoe celebrates scoring against Arsenal in December 2005 - it has now been revealed he has no income. Scots-born McIndoe dated a string of glamour models, including Helena Fletcher and Emma Frain (pictured) The 35-year-old told a hearing in London he was now surviving on the generosity of 'good friends and family'. He said: 'Since the bankruptcy, my girlfriend gave me some cash in July and I believe the trustee's solicitors are pressing for that money to be paid back. 'I have received some money from friends, around £9,000, and some money from NatWest for overcharging me on an account. 'But I have no income.' He added how he was not claiming Jobseekers' Allowance and said his legal representatives were working without fee. Questioned by barrister Mr Andrew Carruth, on behalf of the trustees of his bankrupt estate, he said he had not bet for two years and that reports of his previous gambling accounts topping £1 million were 'vastly over rated'. He said £1.5 million owed to one creditor had been invested into 'Stamp', the private members London nightclub he launched in 2011, but was later closed. McIndoe also denied selling a property in Edinburgh at a cheap rate as part of a panic selling reaction to his financial meltdown. McIndoe and his friends at the Ocean Club in Marbella where 'beds' can cost up to 7,950 euros (£5,790) A footballer taken in by the scheme alleges McIndoe had spent £40,000 on champagne in one day. The former winger played for Bristol City in the Championship final in 2008 - the 'Cider Army' lost to Hull City. It was revealed in January this year that up to 300 players signed up to the scheme that may be the biggest swindle ever to hit the British game. The scheme sucked in players including former Tottenham Hotspur forward Robbie Keane and ex-Fulham midfielder Jimmy Bullard, who is thought to have lost around £600,000 which led him to go on the ITV reality show, I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here. McIndoe was made bankrupt in October last year with disclosed debts of £2.4m. Furious creditors are demanding answers to where there money has gone but McIndoe - who now lives with his mother in Edinburgh - said he had no property and his only bank account had been frozen. McIndoe used the promise of 20 per cent returns on people's money to fund his champagne lifestyle. McIndoe started out at Luton Town, making his debut in 1998 and playing for the Hatters 39 times before joining Hereford on a free in 2000. Yeovil then snapped him up for £25,000 the following year. He scored 22 goals in 91 outings for the Glovers, winning promotion from the Conference in 2003 before joining Doncaster for £50,000. McIndoe twice made the PFA Team of the Year with Rovers and was his side's joint-top scorer in 2004-05 with 12 goals. He twice represented the Scotland B side during his time at Rovers. After a loan spell at Derby he joined Barnsley then Wolves, on loan again, before the deal was made permanent for £250,000. He signed a three-year contract with Bristol City in 2007 and scored the winner against Crystal Palace in the second leg of the 2008 Championship play-off semi-final. They lost out to Hull at Wembley and McIndoe had one more season at Ashton Gate before joining Coventry. He also had a brief loan stint at MK Dons. At the height of his scheme, McIndoe revelled in a playboy's lifestyle, partying in Marbella with a limitless credit card and wads of cash. He hired huge villas in Marbella, where he drove a fleet of expensive cars such as a Bentley and a Maybach and hired celebrities, such as the X Factor winner Alexandra Burke to perform at lavish parties. Scots-born McIndoe also dated a string of glamour models, including Helena Fletcher and Emma Frain. 'He was the Mr Big in Marbella, buying loads of champagne and girls all over the place. He even had a bodyguard,' said one footballer, who lost around £75,000 in the scheme. He ran lavish parties at clubs including Funky Buddha in London and ploughed money into private members' club Stamp on Oxford Street. The 35-year-old is also claimed to have rented a £4,000-a-week suite in London's five-star Mayfair Hotel. He also had in an apartment in Eaton Square, one of the UK's poshest addresses in the exclusive Belgravia district of the capital. But last year, the funds dried up and he was investigated. McIndoe told the court he had co-operated with the official receiver and had handed over documents ahead of a meeting with trustees next week. The bankruptcy hearing was adjourned till June 17.

Michael McIndoe lured players into scheme with promise of 20% return. Ex player lived a millionaire's lifestyle and known as 'Mr Big' in Marbella. But was declared bankrupt in October last year with more than £2m debts. The 35-year-old is now being chased through the courts by creditors.

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

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

Success is a gloriously familiar routine for Johnny Sexton. Adding gold-plated entries to his personal CV has become an annual exercise – a tradition he is hell-bent on maintaining. As he prepared for a European Champions Cup quarter-final showdown with Saracens on Sunday in Paris, Racing Metro’s No 10 and Irish icon reflected on his healthy habit. ‘I’ve been very lucky to have been part of some great sides with Leinster and Ireland, and there haven’t been too many years that have gone by that I haven’t been part of a side winning trophies,’ he said. In fact, since the 29-year-old established himself at senior level, 2010 stands alone as a year without substantial reward. There were league titles in 2008 and 2013, Heineken Cups in 2009, 2011 and 2012, a Challenge Cup in 2013, plus the Test peaks – Six Nations titles this year and last, and a Lions series triumph in Australia in 2013. Johnny Sexton wants to full the void by winning a medal with Racing Metro this season. Short of helping Ireland to win the World Cup later this year, there’s not much left for Sexton to achieve, but he won’t settle for what he has. None of the medals have been earned in the colours of Racing, and filling that void in his check-list is a pressing priority. With a summer return to Dublin approaching, Sexton said: ‘I was speaking to Ronan (O’Gara – former Ireland team-mate and Racing’s kicking coach) last week and saying, for me, for my two years here to be a success, we need to pick up a trophy. Whenever I come back to France, I want to be able to hold my head up high, say that I gave my best to Racing while I was here and helped the club achieve something.’ The Parisian team are in the knock-out stages of Europe’s elite event for the first time, but it is familiar territory for their Irish playmaker. Sexton has featured in 11 knock-out games in continental rugby and won the lot. It is a proud record that hadn’t really occurred to him. Sexton has helped French side reach the knock-out stages of Europe’s elite event for first time. ‘I hadn’t realised that. That builds the pressure on me nicely,’ he quipped. ‘I’ ve never played a knock-out game for Racing, so hopefully it’s going to be one from one!’ Pressure is no problem to him. He handled the scrutiny of being the conductor for the Lions and has rarely faltered in conveying a sense of supreme self-belief. When Leinster were staring down the barrel in the 2011 Heineken Cup Final in Cardiff – trailing 22-6 to Northampton at half-time – Sexton scored two second-half tries in a 28-point haul to propel his province to a comeback victory which took an instant place in the folklore of club rugby in the northern hemisphere. These days, he is often acclaimed as the world’s premier fly-half. Asked about the accolade, he said: ‘I’ve worked hard throughout my career to try to get people to think that way of me, so when you hear that it is very nice and you feel that all your work has paid off. But you’re the best one day and the worst the next, so I try to stay grounded. I’ve gone through a lot of ups and downs in my career, so I will keep my feet firmly on the ground.’ Sexton intends to return to Dublin in the summer after two years in France. In truth, there have been more of the ups than the downs. Sexton had to bide his time to become a fixture in the Ireland team – serving an impatient apprenticeship behind O’Gara. The pair were known to have a frosty relationship for a while, based on the fierce contest for the No 10 shirt, so there was surprise when O’Gara followed his younger compatriot to Racing as a kicking coach. However, the ice has long since thawed. There is warmth between them now. ‘It was many years ago that we were probably best of enemies,’ said Sexton. ‘I was the young up-start who was trying to get into the Irish team, and he was the established international. But towards the latter part of his career we became good buddies, as players. It’s been great working with him here. Ronan has been someone for me to bounce stuff off, when things are going well or going badly.’ Initially, both Irishmen struggled to settle in Paris. A lack of fluent French was a significant issue for Sexton, as the man charged with orchestrating his Gallic club’s attacking game. ‘It was very tough at the start,’ he said. ‘When I came over, I didn’t have a great grasp of the language and I play in a position where it really helps to have a good grasp of French. ‘For the first four or five months, it was tough. I came off the back of the Lions tour, I had about two weeks off then started my season straight away, without much of a break. So the start was difficult, but then we started to improve as a team and turned things around. Now it has come full circle. I am much more settled and I can speak the language pretty well. I’m going to miss a lot of people here.’ Last summer, Sexton agonised over his next career move and eventually resolved to re-join Leinster, rather than sign another contract with Racing – who have made light of the setback by recruiting no less than Dan Carter to pick up the baton after the World Cup. While he called it a ‘tough decision’, the issue of work-load at key times was decisive for Sexton. ‘I have found it extremely difficult to play in the Six Nations and come back in between games to play here,’ he said. ‘I was playing Top 14 games while all the other Irish boys were resting in camp.’ The additional demands have put a strain on him, but Sexton has managed to juggle his duties effectively, to keep Racing in the hunt in the Top 14 and Champions Cup, and help Ireland retain their Six Nations title, in dramatic fashion – once again edging out England on points-difference. He described Super Saturday; the culmination of this year’s championship, as the ‘best day in a green jersey’ for himself and many of his Test colleagues. Talisman Sexton helped Ireland retain the Six Nations title this year. All the trophies and medals and plaudits haven’t quelled the fire in him. Asked to address criticism of Ireland’s often pragmatic tactics in the Six Nations – and a lack of tries prior to the torrent against Scotland on the final day – Sexton offered a defiant retort. ‘There were areas of weakness (in the opposition) that we looked to target,’ he said, referring to an effective Irish kicking game. ‘After the first three games, there was a perception that we were kicking the arse off the ball, but Joe (Schmidt, Ireland’s coach) said to us that we had passed the ball more than any other team in the competition. Sometimes perception and reality are miles apart. We showed what we could do with ball in hand against Wales but we were a bit inaccurate. Then it clicked against Scotland.’ If it clicks again for Ireland at the World Cup, they have a growing belief that – driven on by their Lion at No 10 – they can mount a genuine challenge for the Webb Ellis Cup. But first, Sexton will focus on signing off from Racing with something to show for his time there. The CV has already been embellished this year, but there may be further entries to follow.

Johnny Sexton has featured in 11 Euro knock-out games and won the lot. Racing Metro's No 10 wants to finish two-year stint in Paris with a medal. The French side face Saracens in last eight of European Champions Cup.

Celta Vigo forward Nolito has declared that Lionel Messi should hit the Spanish coast on Sunday instead of risking his foot injury during their La Liga clash. The Barcelona forward has been training following a minor problem, and is set to recover in time for the trip to Celta, but 28-year-old Nolito has urged the Argentine to stay away. 'I guess he'll come, but he can spend the day at the beach as far as I'm concerned,' Nolito told Marca. 'I'll give his dad a ring in a minute.' Lionel Messi should be fit to face Celta Vigo for Barcelona after recovering from a foot injury. Barcelona forward trains alongside team-mate Javier Mascherano (centre) on Thursday. Nolito played alongside Messi for a period at Barcelona, but struggled to impress at the Catalan club that are four points clear at the top of La Liga this season. Celta currently sit 10th in the table, although Nolito insists that his team-mates do not fear Messi and Co. 'The games have to be played,' Nolito added. 'You never know what's going to happen. 'Celta aren't scared of any opposition, regardless of whether they are the best team in the world. We've got nothing to lose.' Messi was forced to sit out both of Argentina's friendlies during the international break. Celta Vigo forward Nolito has declared that Messi should head to the beach rather than playing his team.

Barcelona set to travel to Celta Vigo for clash on Sunday. Lionel Messi set to return from foot injury for La Liga match. Celta forward Nolito urges former team-mate Messi not to play.

Roberto  Martinez is backing Ross Barkley to become an even more influential player for Everton and England after negotiating second-season syndrome at Goodison Park. Barkley has had an indifferent campaign for the Toffees on the back of his inclusion in last summer’s England World Cup party and a knee operation which disrupted his return to domestic duty. But England coach Roy Hodgson has kept faith with the 21-year-old and Martinez believes his two substitute appearances for England against Lithuania and Italy over the past week have shown that the midfielder is ready to kick on again. Roberto Martinez is backing Ross Barkley to become an even more influential player for Everton and England. Barkley impressed after coming off the substitutes bench during England's 1-1 draw in Turin. Martinez said: 'Ross is a young man but he is used to having to deal with extremes. When he plays well he is probably the best footballer England has. When he has a bad game it’s the end of the world. 'He has achieved an incredible level of maturity this season. 'He had to go through a period of difficulty the same way we have as a team and I think he has learned a lot. 'It doesn’t surprise me, he has had a big impact when he came on in both games with England. He was ready to do that. Barkley replaced Theo Walcott in the second half and looked bright as the Three Lions earned a draw. The 21-year-old celebrates after scoring for Everton during their 3-0 victory against Newcastle. 'He will benefit from the experiences of this difficult season. This is his second full season in an important role in the squad. He enjoys that responsibility and taking responsibility in big games. 'He has an incredible technical ability and, with the physicality he has, you don’t see many players in world football with those capabilities. 'We know who Ross is and how important he is for the future of Everton.” Everton’s struggles this season have seen them flirt with relegation and although wins over Newcastle and QPR have eased their plight, Martinez insists guaranteeing safety is still their only immediate target going into Saturday’s visit of sixth-placed Southampton. Martinez insists guaranteeing safety is still Everton's only immediate target ahead of Saturday's match. The Everton boss added: 'There’s no distraction from our league position. That’s everything that matters. 'Those two wins have given us a real sense of confidence and belief for what’s in front of us. 'Forty points is still the target. Nothing has changed until we achieve that and then we will try and get as high up the table as we can.' Top scorer Romelu Lukaku will face a fitness test on the hamstring injury that kept him out of Belgium’s internationals but midfielder Darron Gibson is expected to be fit to face the Saints. Wingers Kevin Mirallas and Steven Pienaar have also recovered from injury and could be included. Top scorer Romelu Lukaku (centre) will face a fitness test on his hamstring injury.

Ross Barkley impressed during England's 1-1 draw against Italy. Roberto Martinez hopes Barkley can kick on for Everton. Everton face Premier League clash against Southampton on Saturday.

A pug has made a miraculous recovery after he was bitten in the face by a rattlesnake. Dug and his owner, Lindsay Castro, were hiking on the Jurupa Hills trail in Fontana, Canada, on Thursday when they heard a rattling sound. Lindsay backed away, but Dug ran up to the reptile - and suffered the consequences. The snake bit Dug in the face, and his face instantly ballooned to twice its size. Scroll down for video. Horrific: Dug the pug's face swelled to twice its size after he was bitten in the face by a rattlesnake. Curious pup: He had been hiking with his owner when he ran toward a rattle sound - and suffered for it. With limited time, the pair rushed to California Veterinary Specialist Hospital in Ontario, where he was given an entire vile of venom antidote. Finally, after two days of round-the-clock IV fluid and treatment, he is ready to go home. 'I thought I'd lost my dog,' Lindsay told KTLA. 'I was so scared.' Relieved: Owner Lindsay Castro thought she had lost her pet as they rushed to the hospital for treatment. Painful: This is Dug's neck after two days of intensive antidote treatment which massively reduced swelling. Forlorn: It has been a heavy few days for Dug, who was struck on one of the first days of rattlesnake season. 'It was huge': Lindsay described her shock at seeing the 'huge' reptile leap out of the bushes in Fontana. Canada's rattlesnake reason runs from April to September. Speaking to KTLA, Dug's vets issued a warning to other pet owners that animals do not have the same instincts as humans when they see a snake. Fontana Police have also released guidance for dog walkers, ordering people to keep animals on a six-foot leash and seek immediate treatment in the case of a snakebite.

Dug and owner Lindsay Castro were hiking in Fontana, Canada. Lindsay heard a rattle sound and backed away but Dug ran toward it. Snake jumped out, bit him, his face swelled to twice its size. After two days of intensive antidote treatment, he is going home.

Karim Benzema showed his talents aren't just limited to the football pitch as the Real Madrid star posted a video showcasing his rapping skills while cruising along in his Bugatti Veyron. As Real Madrid prepare for their La Liga clash against Granada at the Bernabeu on Sunday, Benzema shared a video of him singing along to Tupac's classic track 'Check Out Time'. Tupac's track 'All Eyez on me' might have been a more suitable choice for the Los Blancos star, however, as Benzema looks to add to his goal tally of 20 goals in all competitions so far this season. Real Madrid and France forward Karim Benzema sings along to Tupac in his Bugatti Veyron. Benzema boldly stated earlier this week that he can win the Ballon d'Or award during his career. The France international is confident his club success at the Bernabeu can force his way into contention for the prestigious award. However, Benzema's Real team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo has picked up the last two accolades for the world's best footballer whereas Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi prevailed between 2009-12. Benzema vents his frustration during France's recent 3-1 loss to Brazil at the Stade de France in Paris. Despite the duo's dominance, Benzema is adamant he can compete for the title if he continues to perform for Real Madrid and at international level. 'If I keep winning titles then I can win this award in future,' he told Le Parisien. 'We have Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, the two best players. We know I won't reach 80 or 100 goals in a season. They can do that.' Benzema (right) has scored 20 goals, in all competitions, for Real Madrid this season.

Karim Benzema has scored 20 goals in all competitions this season. Real Madrid face Granada in a crucial La Liga clash on Sunday. Benzema is targeting a Ballon d'Or award in the near future.

A teenage girl has appeared in court accused of plotting to travel overseas to join Kurdish rebels in the fight against the Islamic State. Sixth-form student Silhan Ozcelik, 18, went missing from her Kurdish family’s home in north London last October, while she was still only 17. The Old Bailey head how Ozcelik travelled on the Eurostar with another man to Stuttgart, Germany, where the Kurdish Workers’ Party (PKK) youth movement have its headquarters. Sixth-form student Silhan Ozcelik, 18, is accused of preparing to carry out a terrorist attack in October 2014. The teenager, who is of Kurdish heritage, was then detained at Stansted Airport after she returned to the UK from Germany on January 16. Ozcelik, from Clissold Park, north London, has been charged with one count of engaging in preparation for terrorist activity in October 2014. As the hearing was taking place, protestors gathered outside the Old Bailey with banners and flags to voice their disapproval at the trial. The Kurdistan Workers’s Party (PKK) is a Kurdish rebel organisation founded in 1978, originally fighting for self-determination and political rights for Kurds in Turkey. As the hearing was taking place, protestors gathered outside the Old Bailey with banners and flags to voice their disapproval at the trial. More recently PKK have been fighting to relieve Kurdish enclaves, such as Kobani in Syria, which has come under attack from ISIS. PKK is listed as a terrorist organisation by NATO, the United States and the European Union. After appearing in court today via videolink, the teenager was again in remanded in custody by Mr Justice Sweeney. She is due to enter pleas to the allegations on June 12. Her trial date is set for September 7. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Silhan Ozcelik, 18, went missing from Kurdish family’s home last October. Court heard she travelled on Eurostar to Stuttgart, home of Kurdish Workers' Party youth movement. Ozcelik, from Clissold Park, north London, charged with one terror offence.

Hull City have reapplied to the Football Association to have the club name changed to Hull Tigers after the initial request was blocked. The move angered fans who believed they had won the battle to keep their current when the FA council voted against it by 47 votes to 27. But Hull boss Steve Bruce ahs revealed the club have once again asked FA for permission to rebrand as Hull Tigers. Hull City will become Hull Tigers if club owner Assem Allam gets his way after the previous failed attempt. Hull City owner Allam remains keen on changing his side's name despite fans' anger. An arbitration panel has ruled that owner Assem Allam can make another application to change the name. Bruce said: ‘To be perfectly honest, as I've said repeatedly, the owner knew weeks ago that he had the right to challenge the appeal and he wanted to just go quiet on it. ‘There’s no disputing his views have not changed (regarding the name change). That’s the kind of man he is so we have to respect those views. Hull boss Steve Bruce has revealed owner Allam has reapplied to change the name of his side. 'For what he has done for the club – and I say this repeatedly – he’s put it on the map a little bit and he’s put his hard earned money so he’s entitled to have his opinion. ‘Now you are going to get some, and we’re all traditionalists, that will be opposed to it but hopefully there is a middle ground where everybody can find a solution. 'I think at the moment we put it to one side and make sure that Hull City/Hull Tigers are going to be in the Premier League next year and we can have that debate in the summer.’

Hull's Steve Bruce has revealed the club have reapplied for name change. The FA blocked previous attempt for club to become Hull Tigers. Previous attempt to change name by owner Assem Allam angered fans.

Cesar Azpilicueta is counting down the games until Chelsea win the Barclays Premier League title, and he thinks they have shown their strength by staying top of the table since 'day one'. The Spanish defender and his club team-mates sit top of the table ahead of facing Stoke City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, six points clear of nearest rivals Manchester City with a game in hand. The Blues have long been considered title favourites and Azpilicueta puts that down to the lightning start they made back in August, winning seven of their first eight games to take up first place early on. Cesar Azpilicueta (centre) is counting down the games until Chelsea win the Barclays Premier League title. Azpilicueta's Chelsea sit top of the table ahead of facing Stoke City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday at 3pm. In fact, Jose Mourinho's men have only briefly relinquished the title lead, on goal difference, since their impressive 3-1 win over Burnley at Turf Moor in their season opener back on August 18. Their form has dipped at points since, most notably in defeats to Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur, but Azpilicueta is confident that Chelsea have been able to get through their bad moments unscathed. 'We have been top of the table since day one,' he said. 'We kept that position obviously and had very good moments, as well as some less good moments, but we were there still top of the table and this is the strength of the team. 'You can be up and down, but you have to be focused on the target and I think now we are in a very good position.' Jose Mourinho's men have only briefly relinquished the title lead since their opening 3-1 win over Burnley. Diego Costa scored in the opening weekend win at Turf Moor and has scored 18 more in Chelsea's title bid. Chelsea signed Atletico Madrid left back for £16million in the summer, but he has been largely kept out of the team by Azpilicueta who has consistently played in his less-natural position rather than at right back. Unsurprisingly, the 25-year-old Spaniard - who has had two weeks off after not being selected for his national team - is pleased to have kept his place under new competition within the Chelsea squad this season as they go in search of a league and Capital One Cup double. Filipe Luis (right) arrived for £16million at Chelsea in the summer but has been kept out by Azpilicueta. 'If you ask every player in every team, they are going to say they want to play and when you do not play, obviously you are not as happy as when you do play,' Azpilicueta told Sky Sports. 'I have to go out on the pitch and give everything, to try to fight for every ball, to play and be useful for the team. And obviously when I finish the game and I feel I have given everything and we win, I am happy. 'There are individual battles in the game that you have to win. And after, if we win every one then I think the team will also win.'

Chelsea are six points clear with a game in hand in the Premier League. They have led the title race since a brilliant start to the season in August. Cesar Azpilicueta feels that consistency puts them in pole position to win.

Brentford manager Mark Warburton was delighted to see his side triumph 4-1 against Fulham in a hard-fought west London derby at Craven Cottage. Stuart Dallas fired home two superb strikes while a sublime free-kick from second-half substitute Alan Judge and a late fourth from Jota ensured all three points. Brentford moved to fifth in the table on 69 points with six games left to play and remain firmly in play-off contention. Brentford boss Mark Warburton was delighted with his Brentford side's win over local rivals Fulham. Stuart Dallas scored twice to put the Bees in a commanding lead at Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon. Warburton said: 'I'm really pleased. The first 10-15 minutes we were, not slow but it was a big local derby, the atmosphere was electric, but after that 15-minute spell I thought we were very good. 'I like the way we moved the ball and maintained pace and we were good for our lead at half-time. They were great strikes from Stuart Dallas but what disappointed me was their penalty, I thought it was as soft as they come and it changed the game. 'For the next 10 minutes the Fulham crowd were up and their players were naturally up as well and we had to defend stoutly. 'But then Judgey hit a tremendous free-kick and Jota got an outstanding fourth goal. It keeps us going. We are in contention, be that for top or the play-offs, we are still in with a chance. Brentford players celebrate after Jota put the result beyond doubt in injury time to make it 1-4. Alan Judge scored Brentford's third goal, helping the Bees move up to fifth in the Championship. 'We can't worry about what other teams do. I don't know how many points we will need. We can only worry about ourselves and make sure we do all the things we need to do.' Striker Ross McCormack fired home a 67th-minute penalty for Fulham, who remain 20th - seven points above the drop zone. Fulham manager Kit Symons added: 'It is a little bit of a recurring theme which is very frustrating. We are playing good football, creating chances, we are on top in games but are not making it count. 'When you get those situations in football you need to make it count, you need to get a goal. A lot of the time we are chasing at the moment. You saw it at the Leeds game. Brentford goalkeeper David Button lifts his arms to the sky in celebration at his side's fourth goal. Fulham boss Kit Symons admits his team aren't yet safe from relegation in the Championship. 'Ultimately people just look at the score line at the end of the game and 4-1 looks like a hammering but the actual fact of the matter is that it wasn't. 'We were well in the game but obviously we didn't get anything out of it. We shot ourselves in the foot for the first two goals. 'You need to get and press the ball, by being goal side you think you are protecting the goal. They were a couple of great strikes from them for a few of the goals but we didn't get out and press the ball. 'We are not out of it (relegation trouble), we have work to do, especially with Millwall winning today.'

Brentford beat local rivals Fulham 4-1 in the Championship. Mark Warburton's side moved up to fifth in the table with their win. The Bees boss admitted he is 'really pleased' with the result. Fulham manager Kit Symons says his team are not safe from relegation.

Paul Merson has restarted his row with Andros Townsend after the Tottenham midfielder was brought on with only seven minutes remaining in his team's 0-0 draw with Burnley on Sunday. 'Just been watching the game, did you miss the coach? #RubberDub #7minutes,' Merson put on Twitter. Merson initially angered Townsend for writing in his Sky Sports column that 'if Andros Townsend can get in (the England team) then it opens it up to anybody.' Paul Merson had another dig at Andros Townsend after his appearance for Tottenham against Burnley. Townsend was brought on in the 83rd minute for Tottenham as they drew 0-0 against Burnley. Andros Townsend scores England's equaliser in their 1-1 friendly draw with Italy in Turin on Tuesday night. The former Arsenal man was proven wrong when Townsend hit a stunning equaliser for England against Italy and he duly admitted his mistake. 'It's not as though I was watching hoping he wouldn't score for England, I'm genuinely pleased for him and fair play to him – it was a great goal,' Merson said. 'It's just a matter of opinion, and my opinion was that he got pulled off after half an hour at Manchester United in front of Roy Hodgson, so he shouldn't have been in the squad. 'When I'm wrong, I hold my hands up. I don't have a problem with doing that - I'll always be the first to admit when I'm wrong.' Townsend hit back at Merson on Twitter after scoring for England against Italy. Sky Sports pundit Merson (centre) criticised Townsend's call-up to the England squad last week. Townsend hit back at Merson after netting for England in Turin on Wednesday, saying 'Not bad for a player that should be 'nowhere near the squad' ay @PaulMerse?' Any bad feeling between the pair seemed to have passed but Merson was unable to resist having another dig at Townsend after Tottenham drew at Turf Moor.

Andros Townsend an 83rd minute sub in Tottenham's draw with Burnley. He was unable to find a winner as the game ended without a goal. Townsend had clashed with Paul Merson last week over England call-up.

World Cup winning rugby star Mils Muliaina has been bailed after being arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. The former All Black, who denies the allegations, was arrested last night after his team was defeated in the quarter finals of the European Challenge Cup. He had come off injured during Connacht's 14-7 defeat at Gloucester last night when he was approached by police. The 34-year-old full back, who has 100 caps for the All Blacks, was led away by officers at the Kingsholm Stadium last night in connection with an allegation in Cardiff in March. Scroll down for video. Former All Black Mils Muliaina, pictured last night playing in Connacht's 14-7 defeat against Gloucester, was arrested after the game in connection with an allegation of sexual assault in Cardiff from March. Married Muliaina is accused of assaulting the woman in a crowded bar in the Brewery Quarter of Cardiff city centre after his Irish team Connacht played against Cardiff Blues last month. He was held in cells overnight before being questioned for more than six hours by detectives in Cardiff yesterday. His solicitor Matthew de Maid said: 'He totally denies all the allegations. He has been helping police with their inquiries and he hasn't been charged with anything.' A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Police said: 'A man in his 30s was arrested at Kingsholm Stadium on Friday 3rd April on suspicion of sexual assault in relation to an incident in Cardiff in March. Muliaina is led away by police following his side's 14-7 defeat by Gloucester on Friday night. The former All Black was arrested at Kingsholm and then led to a police van where he was detained. Muliaina's arrest was captured live on Sky Sports following the Challenge Cup quarter-final. 'The man has been handed over to officers from South Wales Police who are investigating the incident.' Muliaina had been playing for the Irish provincial team against the Cardiff Blues on March 6. He retired from the All Blacks in 2011. A spokesperson for the team said: 'Connacht Rugby can confirm that player Mils Muliaina is currently assisting the South Wales Police with enquiries relating to an alleged incident in Cardiff in March of this year. 'As this is a legal matter, Connacht Rugby will be making no further comment at this time.' The allegation is believed to date from Connacht's visit to the Cardiff Blues on March 6. Muliaina has 100 caps for the All Blacks and retired from international rugby after the 2011 World Cup victory. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Mils Muliaina came off injured during Connacht's visit to Gloucester. The 34-year-old World Cup winner was arrested by police after the game. Muliaina was held in cells overnight and questioned by officers in Cardiff. He denies assault allegations over alleged incident last month.

Sportsmail will be providing you with all you need to know about every Barclays Premier League fixture, with team news, provisional squads, betting odds and Opta stats. Here is all the information you need for Aston Villa's home clash with QPR... Aston Villa vs Queens Park Rangers (Villa Park) Team news. Aston Villa. Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood is definitely without a trio of key players for their key game with QPR. Alan Hutton limped off in Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Manchester United with an ankle problem and has been ruled out of Tuesday's game along with Scott Sinclair and Ashley Westwood. Alan Hutton (left) attempts to play a pass under pressure from Manchester United's Daley Blind in Aston Villa's 3-1 Barclays Premier League defeat at Old Trafford on Saturday. Philippe Senderos and Kieran Richardson (both calf) are doubts along with Tom Cleverley (adductor) and Aly Cissokho (groin) - although they are training - while Libor Kozak is sidelined as he continues to recover from a broken leg. Provisional squad: Guzan, Given, Lowton, Okore, Vlaar, Clark, Cissokho, Kinsella, Delph, Gil, Sanchez, Grealish, Cole, Cleverley, Richardson, N'Zogbia, Agbonlahor, Benteke, Weimann. QPR. QPR are without Chilean winger Eduardo Vargas and South Korean left-back Yun Suk-young for Tuesday's Barclays Premier League clash at Aston Villa. Vargas is ruled out with a knee injury sustained in the 4-1 win at West Brom while Yun will not travel to Villa Park for precautionary reasons after suffering a head injury in the same match. Eduardo Vargas jumps in an attempt to beat West Brom's Chris Baird to the ball in QPR's 3-1 win at the Hawthorns in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday. Hoops boss Chris Ramsey is also without knee-injury victims Richard Dunne, Leroy Fer and Alejandro Faurlin while Darnell Furlong is still sidelined with a calf problem. Provisional squad: Green, Isla, Onuoha, Caulker, Hill, Phillips, Sandro, Barton, Kranjcar, Austin, Zamora; Hoilett, Grego-Cox, McCarthy, Henry, Doughty, Sutherland. Kick-off: Tuesday, 7.45pm. Odds (subject to change):. Aston Villa 21/20. Draw 9/4. QPR 11/4. Referee: Craig Pawson. Managers: Tim Sherwood (Aston Villa), Chris Ramsey (QPR) Head-to-head league record: Aston Villa wins 12, draws 10, QPR wins 21. Key match stats (supplied by Opta) Aston Villa have scored just seven goals in their last 20 Premier League matches against London sides, and never more than once in a match in that time (W2 D3 L15). QPR have not won back-to-back away games in the Premier League since September 1995. Christian Benteke has scored four goals in his last four league games for Tim Sherwood’s side, more than he had netted in his previous 21 (3). Charlie Austin has been involved in 20 of QPR’s 35 league goals this season (16 goals, four assists). The last season that Queens Park Rangers won both home and away in the league against Aston Villa was back in 1986/87. Charlie Austin celebrates scoring his and QPR's second goal in their 2-0 win over Aston Villa at Loftus Road. Aston Villa have won five and drawn one of their six Premier League games against the Hoops at Villa Park. QPR’s last league win at Villa Park came back in March 1992 (1-0). QPR have scored in each of their last 12 Premier League matches against Aston Villa. Aston Villa have won just one of their last eight Premier League home games (W1 D3 L4). Villa have failed to find the net in four of these eight matches.

Alan Hutton, Scott Sinclair and Ashley Westwood ruled out for Aston Villa. Philippe Senderos & Kieran Richardson among doubts for Tim Sherwood. Yun Suk-young and Eduardo Vargas absent for Queens Park Rangers. Richard Dunne, Leroy Fer and Alejandro Faurlin also missing for QPR. Two sides clash at Loftus Road on Tuesday at 7.45pm.

Reigning champion Novak Djokovic dug deep to avoid a shock exit at the hands of Alexandr Dolgopolov before powering into the quarter-finals of the Miami Open. The unseeded Dolgopolov - ranked 65th in the world, 64 places behind Djokovic - surprised the Serbian by winning a first-set tie-break and building a quick 4-2 lead in the second set. But Djokovic steeled himself and rallied to force a decider, which he wrapped up without much resistance from his deflated Ukrainian opponent. Novak Djokovic celebrates after securing a quarter-final place at the Miami Open. Novak Djokovic came back from a set down to reach the quarter-finals of the Miami Open on Tuesday. Alexandr Dolgopolov had both of his soles bandaged and won only three points in the final set. Djokovic claimed a succession of long exchanges in the second set to even the match and go on to win. The 6-7 (3/7) 7-5 6-0 triumph pits the world number one against David Ferrer in the last eight after the Spaniard saw off Gilles Simon 7-6 (7/5) 6-0 in a little over an hour and a half. Also through to the quarters are British number one Andy Murray and fourth seed Kei Nishikori. The Scot racked up a 500th career win by edging out Kevin Anderson 6-4 3-6 6-3 to book a meeting with Austrian Dominic Thiem, a 7-6 (7/5) 4-6 7-5 victor against Adrian Mannarino. Nishikori of Japan made light work of David Goffin and his 6-1 6-2 sees him progress to a match-up against big-serving American John Isner, who rallied to upset fifth seed Milos Raonic 6-7 (3/7) 7-6 (8/6) 7-6 (7/5) in a match which last two and three-quarter hours. David Ferrer celebrates after defeating Gilles Simon to book his place in the last eight. Simon is grounded after a fall during his defeat to Ferrer, who faces Novak Djokovic next. Andy Murray was given a celebratory cake to mark 500 wins on the ATP circuit after beating Kevin Anderson. Tomas Berdych also made it through to the quarter-finals by beating Gael Monfils. Kei Nishikori is also through to the last eight, defeating Serbia's Viktor Troicki. Czech challenger Tomas Berdych reached his sixth quarter-final of the season by beating Gael Monfils 6-3 3-2. The Frenchman conceded the match by retirement after suffering a heavy fall on court, and Berdych will meet Juan Monaco following the unseeded Argentinian's 6-3 6-3 conquest of Fernando Verdasco. In the women's competition, Carla Suarez Navarro lost the first set 6-0 but hit back to see off Venus Williams 0-6 6-1 7-5 and reach the semi-finals. There she will face Germany's Andrea Petkovic after the ninth seed beat Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic 6-4 6-2.

Novak Djokovic came from a set down to beat Alexandr Dolgopolov. The world No 1 remains in contention for his fifth Miami Open win. Dolgopolov became less mobile after receiving treatment to his feet. Djokovic faces David Ferrer next after Spaniard beat Gilles Simon. Andy Murray through after beating South Africa's Kevin Anderson.

Rangers boss Stuart McCall has been reassured that the decision to remove the club off the London Stock Exchange will not affect his squad's promotion push. The Ibrox faithful were rocked by Thursday's news that the club had been de-listed from the AIM after chairman-in-waiting Dave King failed to find a new nominated advisor. Interim chairman Paul Murray put the blame for AIM's decision at the door of the club's previous board but tried to play down fears by revealing the new regime in charge is now considering a switch to the ISDX market. Stuart McCall oversees his Rangers players during a training session on Good Friday. There is also the possibility of legal action from former football board chairman Sandy Easdale. But whatever the outcome, McCall does not expect it to derail his charge for the play-offs. The Gers manager said: 'I had a quick chat with [director] John Gilligan and read an email that had gone round the club saying: "Don't panic, don't worry". 'I'm a football guy, I don't know what's going on in the stock markets. 'But apparently [the board is] not concerned in any way. The funding and the plans for the club will remain the same. Rangers have been de-listed from the AIM after Dave King (centre) failed to find a new nominated advisor. 'Do I expect it to negatively impact me or the players? No. I hope not and I wouldn't expect it to.' Rangers also this week announced six-month losses of £2.6million for the second half of last year. Among the report's details was the surprise that Rangers will have to hand Newcastle United £500,000 if they win promotion to the Premiership as part of the deal which saw them take five Magpies youngsters on loan in January. It is the type of bill the cash-strapped Light Blues could do without but McCall - who still does not know if he will be in charge beyond the summer - is refusing to worry about it too much right now. Rangers this week announced six-month losses of £2.6million for the second half of last year. 'I was really surprised,' said McCall after being asked for his reaction to loan-deal agreement. 'I was gobsmacked if I'm being honest. 'I was driving in the car when I heard it on the radio and I just thought: "Woof". But if that's the deal, that's the deal. 'But I've got enough on just concentrating on what's happening on the training ground and the pitch. 'I've not even given [whether that fee will impinge on me if I'm here next season] a thought. My main concern is the game on Sunday. 'I know you have got to be prepared and be organised but I'm not a three-year or five-year plan guy. I try to do my best here and now and if it's good enough to get us up then great.' McCall admits he was gobsmacked at the news Rangers will have to pay Newcastle £500,000 if promoted. Rangers welcome newly-crowned Scottish Championship winners Hearts to Ibrox on Sunday. It should have been a crucial clash in the race for the title but the Light Blues' mid-season collapse means it only has significance for the hosts as they look to over-take Hibernian in second place. But McCall confirmed his side will pay tribute to the league leaders. 'We will be giving the Hearts lads a guard of honour,' he said. 'It's not something you do week after week but this is their first away game and it's something we will be doing. 'Hearts have won 26 games out of 30 and nine on the bounce. That's incredible. 'Our players might look on a bit enviously and think they'd have liked that to be us who were running out as champions. 'Hopefully they will see it that the season can still be a success, we can still get promoted.'

Stuart McCall is trying to lead Rangers to Championship promotion. He is confident that the club's removal from the London Stock Exchange this week won't derail their hopes of going up. Rangers this week announced six-month losses of £2.6million. McCall was surprised at the news Rangers will have to hand Newcastle £500,000 if they are promoted to the Scottish Premiership.

Bayern Munich playmaker Thiago admits coming on against Borussia Dortmund to make his first appearance in a year was an emotional moment and has thanked the German club. The midfielder hadn't played for the Bayern since March in 2014, when he suffered a serious knee injury against Hoffenheim, but came on for Philipp Lahm in the 1-0 win at the Westfalenstadion on Saturday. And Spain international Thiago said that after seeing the reaction of the fans it has reminded him of the joy in the sport and admitted: 'Football is my life'. Thiago came on for his first appearance in over a year against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday. The Spanish midfielder celebrates with Bayern Munich team-mates after their 1-0 win at the Westfalenstadion. 'It's crazy. I have to thank everyone: the club, the coaches, my team-mates. They've all been really supportive,' he told Bayern's official website. 'The fans have helped me. It was an emotional moment. I'm very happy. 'Some people think football is just a game, but when I saw how emotional the fans were, I knew: football is my life.' Thiago admits he is still far from full fitness but is now hoping to get back into the side as Pep Guardiola's men continue their hunt for the treble. 'I'm not ready for 90 minutes, I felt tired after 10!' he added. 'My goals haven't changed: to win games and win titles.' Thiago came on for Philipp Lahm and admitted he barely felt fit enough to play 10 minutes.

Thiago Alcantara hadn't played for Bayern Munich since March 2014. Midfielder plays 10 minutes in 1-0 victory against Borussia Dortmund.

England ace Joe Hart labelled fellow goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon a 'legend of the game' after seeing the Italian veteran claim his 147th cap. Hart, who passed an impressive milestone of his own by representing his country for the 50th time on Tuesday night, said after the 1-1 draw with Italy that Buffon was an inspiration. Speaking to FA TV, Hart said: 'I’m still learning my game and I’m still watching the likes of Buffon and the way he goes about his business at 37 years old. England and Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has lavished praise on fellow goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. Hart has labelled Buffon, who won his 147th cap against England on Tuesday night, a 'legend of the game' 'I’ve got a lot more learning to do and I want to do it in this team. '[Buffon’s caps total] is a long way off, but it’s definitely a night to celebrate a terrific goalkeeper and a legend of the game, someone I personally look up to and it’s inspirational to see.' The Manchester City shot stopper, who is 10 years younger than Buffon, revealed his delight at receiving his 50th cap at the Juventus Stadium. 'I was proud of my first cap, I was proud to represent the Under 21s, and 50 caps at my age is good,' added Hart. 'I want to keep going, that’s not the end for me. I just want to keep going, keep playing well for my club and country and rack them up.' England ace Hart, pictured saving a shot by Citadin Eder, is desperate to add to his 50 international caps.

Joe Hart has revealed he is inspired by the likes of Gianluigi Buffon. Italy's record cap holder Buffon played his 147th game for the Azzurri. Man City shot stopper Hart recorded his 50th appearance for England. Click here to read Martin Samuel's match report from Turin.

Former Leeds and England coach Tony Smith admits he was shocked by Kevin Sinfield's decision to switch codes but, on reflection, believes it could be an inspired decision. Sinfield, 34, the greatest captain in Leeds' history, stunned the world of rugby league with his sudden announcement that he will quit the sport at the end of the season and join the Rhinos' sister club Yorkshire Carnegie on an 18-month contract. Sinfield, who is closing in on third place in rugby league's all-time scoring list with 3,997 points, told a news conference at Headingley he did not want to play against Rhinos and that the opportunity to spearhead Carnegie's bid for a Premiership return was too good to resist. Leeds Rhinos captain Kevin Sinfield is to switch codes and join Yorkshire Carnegie at the end of the season. Sinfield (centre) lifts the Super League trophy after Leeds beat Warrington in the grand final in October 2012. Warrington coach Tony Smith (left) speaks with fellow coaches Tony Rea and Brian McDermott. Smith, who was in charge of the Rhinos when Sinfield lifted the first of their six Super League titles in 2003, says he is sad to see his former skipper swap codes. 'I was a bit shocked,' Smith said. 'It took me a couple of minutes to think about it. He's a champion player, he's been a champion player for his club and his country for many years. 'I'm sad to lose him to that other code. However, I could understand the rationale. If it's a way of him plying his trade for longer - his trade of playing rugby and being a terrific professional - I can see why he's made that change. 'I think he'll have a lot to still contribute to their sport and to that club. It's not a huge switch for him in terms of training venues. 'He'll still have his bumps and bruises, but the fact that he can continue to do that and probably get well rewarded for it, I can't blame him.' Sinfield, whose bombshell announcement came just four days after his predecessor as England captain Jamie Peacock revealed he would be leaving Leeds at the end of the season to become football manager at Hull KR, has missed Leeds' last two games through injury and, according to Smith, is probably stepping down at the right time. Sinfield (left) in action for England against France during the 2013 Rugby League World Cup quarter-final. Sinfield is tackled during a match between Leeds Rhinos and Leigh Centurions last year. 'I think it's fantastic to make that decision to bow out of Super League probably at the right time,' Smith added. 'You can't keep playing forever and, when those young guys come snapping at your heels, it's hard to keep them at bay at some stage. 'You have to bite the bullet and step aside and I'd say the time is probably right. I'm no expert on when other people should retire but I'm pleased for Kevin and he'll certainly give everything he's got to his new employers. 'That's how he's been in rugby league and I've got no reason to think it'll be any different.' Sinfield has never played rugby union but already identified a role for himself in his new sport as he follows in the footsteps of Jason Robinson, Andy Farrell and Sam Burgess. 'Ideally I'd like to play fly-half,' Sinfield said. 'It's the position that suits the skill set I have the best. Sinfield and his Leeds team-mates celebrate after beating Melbourne Storm in the 2008 World Club Challenge. 'I understand the challenge that's in front of me and the difficulties rugby league players have faced crossing over. That's why I think I'm in the best possible place to help with that transition. 'Playing union is something I've always wanted to do. I didn't want to end my career and have regrets about missed opportunities. When this opportunity came up I knew it was the right thing. 'I'm excited by it. I know the potential at the club and it's something I'd like to be a part of. 'I'm very respectful of the game and I like watching it. I think a lot of rugby league people look down on rugby union, and I think a lot of rugby union people look down on rugby league. But I like both games. As a sportsman, to get the opportunity to play another professional sport is something that really appeals to me.'

Kevin Sinfield has announced he is leaving Leeds at the end of the season. The 34-year-old will cross codes to join sister club Yorkshire Carnegie. Sinfield has won six Super League titles, three World Club Challenges and one Challenge Cup with the Rhinos.

Things have been going rather sweetly for Oscar in recent times. The Chelsea forward has a Capital One Cup medal to his name this season while his side are currently commanding a six-point lead at the summit of the Premier League standings. The 23-year-old also scored in Brazil's recent 3-1 victory against France in Paris for good measure. Ahead of Chelsea's clash with Stoke at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, the Brazilian took to his Instagram account to post a picture of him swigging from a bottle of sweets. Chelsea star Oscar messes around on his Instagram account ahead of Saturday's clash with Stoke. Oscar fires past Mamadou Sakho in the 40th minute during Brazil's 3-1 victory over France in Paris. Oscar could be drinking a finely-crafted espresso in Turin next season if recent reports on the midfielder's future come to pass. Scouts from Juventus were present at the Stade de France last Thursday night specifically to watch Oscar in action against Didier Deschamps' side. The Serie A giants are reportedly weighing up an offer for the summer. Oscar signed a contract extension up until 2019 with Chelsea last year having joined the club in 2012. Juventus scouts were at the Stade de France to watch Oscar in action.

Chelsea lead Manchester City by six points at the Premier League summit. Oscar scored in Brazil's recent 3-1 victory against France. Juventus scouts were present in Paris to watch Oscar in action.

A New Zealand man was taken aback after receiving a phone call from his brother who had been missing for 10 years. John Daniel Tohill, 37, was last heard from by family in 2005 after he left Nelson on the Tasman bay to travel north. But on Tuesday evening his brother Tobias received a call from John saying he had would be visiting in the coming weeks, reports Stuff NZ. John Daniel Tohill, 37, made contact with his family this week for the first time since 2005. Over the years his family has hired investigators and police, but because he was an adult and had disappeared without notice before there was little incentive for police to appeal to the public for information. The family learned that John had never left the country, had no savings and did not possess a driver's licence. But after a call out for public sightings of him, John called his brother on Tuesday. 'It's pretty amazing,' Tobias said. 'He wanted to keep to himself all this time.' He was reportedly alerted to the search by a colleague who showed him the story on Stuff NZ. Tobias said his brother offered little explanation to his disappearance. John's brother Tobias (pictured) received a call from John saying he had would be visiting them in coming weeks. 'He is happy. He sounds well. He sounds like his is in a good way. We were very happy to hear from him.' John will visit his family in the coming weeks, including his father, who is in the final stage of dementia. 'It's a bit strange,' Tobias said. 'It's really good to hear he is well. I don't have to think about it any more.'

John Daniel Tohill, 37, was last heard from by his family in 2005. His brother Tobias received a call from him on Tuesday evening. His family has hired investigators and police to track him down. John will visit his family, in particlar his ailing father, in coming weeks.

A pair of childhood friends who played football together as boys are set to marry years as man and wife after reuniting when one of them underwent gender reassignment surgery. Christopher Dodd, 24, and Fay Purdham, 27, are now a couple, with the latter transitioning to become a woman at the age of 23. The pair, who now live in South Bank, Middlesbrough, grew up together as boys before losing touch as teenagers. Fay Purdham and Christopher Dodd are to marry after reuniting years after Miss Purdham underwent surgery to become a woman. The pair grew up together as boys, playing football and Playstation for endless hours. Miss Purdham, who was born Kevin, (left), began her transition after Christopher (right) move away from the area where they both lived as children. Soon after they parted ways Fay, who was born Kevin, started her transition to becoming a woman by taking hormones. They reunited at a party years later and are now planning their dream wedding. 'When I saw Fay again, I was gob smacked by how beautiful she was and I fell for her immediately,' said Mr Dodd, who is studying chemistry at Middlesbrough University. 'It took me some time to get my head around the fact that she used to be my best friend Kevin but I have never looked at her in any other way other than the fact she is a gorgeous woman.' The pair were inseparable as children and spent endless hours playing football. Christopher was my best friend in the world when I younger. 'We used to be together all the time from when I was about nine going on 10 – he was a close family friend – and we spent hours together playing 'boy' games when I was Kevin,' Miss Purdham said. The couple now live together and are planning their family, with Miss Purdham having frozen her sperm before changing gender. But even as a young boy she said she knew she was slightly different. 'I used to play with cars and guns and play sports like my friends, but I also loved playing with dolls.' Aged 12, she realised she was gay and came out to her family after spending years dressing up in her sister's clothes in wigs secretly. From then the youngster became increasingly feminine, saving up her pocket money to buy women's clothes and experimenting with make-up. Aged 16 she began taking hormones to begin her physical transformation, by which point Christopher had already moved away with his family. 'I had gradually stopped playing with Christopher and he had moved away anyway,' added Miss Purdham. 'It was sad and I missed him but I didn’t think him, being a boy, would understand what was going on. 'When I started to transition from about the age of 16, I lost touch with him and didn’t see him again for several years.' In fact the couple did not meet again until Mr Dodd's 21st birthday when Miss Purdham, who is unemployed, turned up with her sister. 'As soon as he saw me, he came over to me,' she recalled. 'He had heard through family that I’d had surgery to become a woman but the last time he’d seen me I was Kevin. 'His first words were: "God you look different" and we both burst out laughing. While Mr Dodd knew his girlfriend had changed genders through family friends, when the pair finally reunited at his 21st birthday party he said he was 'gobsmacked' by her beauty. Miss Purdham with her sister. While the 27-year-old's sibling and mother were accepting of her decision, she said she thinks her father found it more difficult to cope with. Miss Purdham had long been dressing up in her sister's clothes and wigs by the time she told her family she wanted to become a woman. She is pictured above left, as Kevin, and right, in a recent photograph. After coming out as gay and leaving school, Miss Purdham began experimenting more with women's clothes. Mr Dodd, who is a chemistry student in Middlesbrough, moved away with his family before Miss Purdham's transition. 'Now he had really grown into a handsome young man and I was very attracted to him right from the start – plus I had that feeling that he was also liking me too. “We sat talking for ages about the old days and then suddenly, he kissed me - and it felt like the right thing to do.' They began dating, with Mr Dodd eager to understand more about his new girlfriend's transformation. 'He was curious about it all of course and a little afraid, I think. It was all new to him and the fact that I had been a boy and we had been so close at one time was a little difficult to get his head around. 'But he never ever treats me little anything less than the woman I am and he’s very respectful of me.' They are now engaged and are planning a family, with Miss Purdham having frozen her sperm before undergoing gender reassignment surgery. 'We are so excited for our future. I still can’t believe that all this is happening – and that Christopher has fallen in love with me given our backgrounds. 'I feel very lucky that fate crossed our paths again. He’s definitely the man of my dreams – and I know I’m his girl.' The couple live together in South Bank, Middlesbrough. When they kissed for the first time, Miss Purdham said it felt 'right'

Christopher Dodd, 24, and Fay Purdham, 27, are planning their wedding. The couple grew up together as boys playing football and Playstation. After losing touch as teenagers Fay, who was born Kevin, came out as gay. Having taken hormones for years, she had gender reassignment surgery. The pair reunited at Mr Dodd's 21st birthday party and are now engaged.

Tomas Berdych set up a hotly-anticipated rematch with Andy Murray with a straight-sets win against Juan Monaco in the Miami Open quarter-finals on Wednesday. Eighth seed Berdych defeated Argentine Monaco 6-3, 6-4 to ensure a first meeting with Muray since their tense and at times acrimonious Australian Open semi-final which Murray won in four sets. Monaco, backed by a large Argentine support, put up a strong fight in the second set until Berdych broke for a 5-4 lead. Tomas Berdych hits a forehand on his way to a straight-sets victory in the Miami Open quarter-finals. Juan Monaco stretches to play the backhand in the last-eight clash in Miami on Wednesday. Berdych said: 'It was a very tough one, he played very fast and pushed me every ball. I am really happy I found a way through. On his fiery meeting with Murray in Australia, the Czech said: 'What’s positive for me is that I think [Murray] played a very good tournament [in Australia], very good tennis, and I managed to find a way to win a set. 'It’s definitely going to be my goal to stick to the game plan and execute it.' Berdych is coached by Murray's former assistant Dani Vallverdu and has recently started working with the Brit's former fitness trainer Jez Green. Berdych approaches the net to play the volley as the Czech sets up a rematch with Andy Murray.

Tomas Berdych beat Juan Monaco 6-3, 6-4 in the Miami Open last-eight. The Czech now goes on to play Andy Murray in Friday's semi-finals. Berdych and Murray contested a fiery match at this year's Australian Open.

The renowned sports psychiatrist Dr Steve Peters claims he did little more than give Jonathan Trott the tools to rebuild his England career. Warwickshire batsman Trott touched down in the West Indies with England on Thursday night, back in the international set-up for the first time since leaving last winter's Ashes tour with a stress-related illness. Trott has spoken openly of his struggles since, but has slowly rehabilitated his career with both Warwickshire and the England Lions and is now on the brink of returning to Tests. Jonathan Trott returns to the England set-up for the first time since taking a break with a stress-related illness. The 33-year-old has worked extensively with Dr Peters during the last year, learning from a man who has done notable work with the British cycling team, Liverpool FC and Ronnie O'Sullivan, and who introduced the 'Chimp Paradox' in a bid to help people better manage their own minds. But speaking in The Independent, Peters said there is no magic cure and that Trott had worked hard to counter his problems, which he described as 'situational anxiety'. He wrote: 'He ticked all the boxes. It was a foregone conclusion to me that he would make massive progress - I just hoped that he would then perform as he has been doing and justify his place. Now he has done that. Dr Steve Peters worked with the batsman and gave him the necessary tools to return to the game. 'He's an incredible cricketer. The advice I give to most of the people I work with is not to go public because obviously you're training people to do a skill. A lot of people don't understand it is a skill and therefore you might not get it right. 'People are expecting a magic-wand cure and that's not really the way it works. Jonathan decided he wanted to go public about this because he has done so well. 'It's a credit to the man. You can have periods in sport, sometimes a whole season, when things just aren't happening and you're just digging even harder to make it happen again - that's effectively what Jonathan has done. Trott has impressed since returning for Warwickshire and the England Lions, earning his return to the squad. 'From a psychological point of view, Jonathan is quite robust and certainly determined. It was just a case of giving him the tools to understand what was going on.' Peters, who helped mentor the golden generation of British cyclists and also worked with O'Sullivan for his last two world titles, can see no reason why Trott will not make a successful return to Test cricket. 'What Jonathan did was to take it very seriously, he meant business, which is a measure of the man,' he added. Peters (left) has worked with Liverpool, Ronnie O'Sullivan and the England football team in recent years. 'He was very open, hard-working, and what I effectively told him to do was to get some insights into the way his mind was working. Then it was up to him to operate [his mind] in the way he wanted it to, rather than it dictating to him what was going happen. 'I don't have a recipe for people. It's up to the player himself to manage the mind in the way they want to in the future. That's something anyone can do, it's not something you only do when you're distressed. Jonathan had what became a situational anxiety, and once that was understood, he was able to manage it. 'My feeling is that he'll do very well and he won't have any problems now because he has that insight.' Trott reacts while bowling during a friendly match at Edgbaston, Birmingham during his comeback.

Jonathan Trott returned to England's set-up after his stress-related illness. Sport psychiatrist Dr Steve Peters helped the batsman with his problems. Peters is delighted to see the 'incredible' Trott return for England. CLICK HERE for all the latest cricket news.

Stuart McCall revealed captain Lee McCulloch apologised to him and the Rangers players after being sent off in the 2-1 win over runaway Scottish Championship winners Hearts at Ibrox. Goals from striker Kenny Miller and the returning midfielder Haris Vuckic had the home side two ahead and cruising before McCulloch was shown a straight red card by referee Bobby Madden for fouling striker Osman Sow. It left the 10-man Govan side to fight a rearguard battle in the second half and, although Jambos striker Genero Zeefuik reduced the deficit in the 83rd minute, Rangers held on to move into second place in the league, three points ahead of Hibernian with a game in hand over the Leith club. Lee McCulloch was sent off during Rangers' crucial 2-1 victory against Hearts in the Scottish Championship. Staurt McCall says the Gers captain apologised to him as well as the players after the incident. The Gers boss said: 'Believe it or not I haven't seen it again and I didn't see it live - all I was interested in was Zeefuik going through the middle - but I spoke to Bobby coming off and he said he caught him with his elbow. 'Jig (McCulloch) came in after the game and apologised to me and the team so obviously it must have merited a red card.' The former Rangers midfielder paid tribute to Gers supporters in the crowd of 40,521 who willed their team on to a third successive win when they were down to 10 men. He said: 'In the second half, that was the first time for a long, long time, since I was playing, that I got goosebumps out there. McCulloch walks off the pitch after he was shown the red card on Easter Sunday. 'The fans deserved that (win) but I thought the players deserved their applause coming off the park because you need both together to be a success. 'It was pleasing in a lot of ways. We set out with a game plan to stop Hearts playing because they are a good side, no doubt about that. 'Obviously it was two terrific goals, but I thought the tempo and passing in the first half was outstanding. 'I thought the second half was just about guts, desire, being a good team-mate, so it was a hard shift but a nervy finish.' Man of the match Nicky Law also noted the improving relationship between players and supporters. The Rangers midfielder said: 'The crowd just lifted everyone and the atmosphere was as good as it has been since I signed at the club and Hearts fans played their part in that as well. 'Probably for the first time the fans have been right behind us and united as one, which it hasn't been for a while and that was great to see. 'We know that has been down to ourselves in large parts because it hasn't been good enough. 'But we hope that they see the effort we are putting in and hopefully we can achieve the aim that we started the season with and repay the fans. 'It was a huge win for us. Three wins on the spin now and the boys are buzzing.' McCall has paid tribute to the 40,521 Rangers fans who made it to Ibrox for the game. It was Hearts' first away defeat in the league all season and head coach Robbie Neilson refused to be too downbeat. He said: 'I thought we dominated in the second half without creating a lot of chances. I don't think we did enough to win. 'But the pleasing think is I am sitting here at Ibrox, having lost 2-1 and everyone is devastated. 'We have to take a step back and look at the big picture. 'We are 23 points clear at the top of the Championship and we are guaranteed top level football next year. 'So I don't want to be too down. I spoke to the players after the game and told them to put it into perspective. 'When they walk out of Ibrox they should have their heads held high because they are champions and it doesn't matter what happens in one game, it is a 36-game league and they have been the best team.' Kenny Miller (left) celebrates scoring for Rangers against Championship winners Hearts on Sunday.

Lee McCulloch was shown a straight red card after fouling Osman Sow. Rangers went on to win Scottish Championship fixture 2-1 at Ibrox. Stuart McCall says captain McCulloch apologised to both him and the players after sending off against Hearts.

Ahead of another weekend in the Barclays Premier League, Sportsmail brings you the latest squad news, odds and stats on every top flight fixture as it breaks. Simply click on your team in the fixture list below to find out who is ruled out and who is making a return as well as all the key statistics surrounding your club's fixture. In or out? Keep up-to-date with all the latest team news and stats ahead of the Premier League weekend. SATURDAY. Arsenal vs Liverpool (12.45pm) Everton vs Southampton (3pm) Leicester City vs West Ham United (3pm) Manchester United vs Aston Villa (3pm) Swansea City vs Hull City (3pm) West Bromwich Albion vs QPR (3pm) Chelsea vs Stoke (5.30pm) SUNDAY. Burnley vs Tottenham Hotspur (1.30pm) Sunderland vs Newcastle United (4pm) MONDAY. Crystal Palace vs Manchester City (8pm)

Arsenal host Liverpool in explosive return from international football. Manchester United feature at Saturday 3pm when they take on Aston Villa. League leaders Chelsea welcome Stoke City in Saturday evening kick off. Barclays Premier League champions Manchester City travel to Crystal Palace for Monday Night Football. Sunderland and Newcastle United clash in Wear-Tyne derby on Sunday.

A sign of Raheem Sterling’s tender years can be seen inked into his forearm. The image of Wembley, which overlooked his estate growing up, is clear amid a cluster of tattoos. Rather than those two famous towers, synonymous with the national stadium for 77 years, it is the arc, unveiled in 2007, that is unmistakable. Back then, Sterling was a young kid dreaming of a career in professional football, playing jumpers for goalposts on streets and in parks. Raheem Sterling has turned down a new deal with Liverpool and put off contract talks until the summer. Sterling has revealed that he will wait until the summer before making a decision on his future. The 20-year-old scored for England in their 4-0 win over Lithuania at Wembley last Friday night. Sterling impressed as part of England's front three but he has been used at wing back by Liverpool. Sterling pictured in Liverpool training on Thursday at their Melwood headquarters. Sterling and Daniel Sturridge share a joke in Liverpool training on Thursday at their Melwood base. The forward trains with his team-mates as they prepare to take on Arsenal on Saturday. He is still just 20, but much has changed. Sterling is now in position to reject contract offers of £100,000 per week from Liverpool, confident enough to express his views to the BBC without the knowledge of his club. ‘I don't want to be perceived as a money-grabbing 20-year-old,’ says the player aware of his value as much as his age and how those two factors are linked. He knows, with two years left on his £35,000-per-week deal, he holds the cards in discussions with one of the biggest clubs in English and European football. It has been quite a remarkable rise for Sterling since his days looking up at Wembley with hope in his heart and a ball under his arm; rapidly progressing along the ground and through the ranks. Sterling arrives at Liverpool's Melwood training ground on Thursday morning. Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers hands out some instructions during Thursday's training session. The Liverpool manager prepares his team to take on Arsenal on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium. Sterling's current £35,000-a-week deal at Liverpool has two years to run at the end of this season. Neil Ashton broke the Sterling contract story on Monday - CLICK HERE TO READ FULL ARTICLE. He was born in Maverley, Kingston, a tough Jamaican community where gun crime is rife and drug gangs rule, before moving across the Atlantic aged five to join his mother Nadine in north London along with three siblings. Living on the St Raphael’s estate meant the sounds of gunshots were never far away. Police labelled the adjoining Stonebridge estate a warzone in 2005. Rival gangs engaged in tit-for-tat shootings. ‘They were all dealing in crack cocaine and it was a fight for territory,’ said Detective Inspector Stephen Horsley in 2009. Sterling had his football and his mother, a source of inspiration and guidance. But he failed to settle in a mainstream primary school because of behavioural problems, finding escape at the Vernon House Special School, which he attended for three years. A decade ago he began to take his sport seriously. The English youngster spent seven years at Queens Park Rangers before moving to Liverpool in 2010. He joined QPR's Centre of Excellence aged 11, and within three years was starring for the Under 18s. He joined Queens Park Rangers’ Centre of Excellence aged 11, and within three years was starring for the Under 18s. Mark Anderson and Frank McParland, Liverpool’s youth scout and academy director respectively, spotted Sterling star in these games and began their pursuit. At this time Sterling was taken under the wing of Tom Walley, a veteran youth coach who has worked with Ashley Cole and David James. Sterling’s pay has rocketed since he left QPR, where he would have been earning around £400 per week. After his move north, his first pro contract at Liverpool was worth £2,000 per week and his current deal earns him £35,000 per week as previously mentioned. Michael Calvin details in his book, The Nowhere Men, how Sterling would take part in pick-up games organised by Walley on a pitch in the back garden of the home of Tim Sherwood, then Tottenham’s technical co-ordinator. NEIL ASHTON: Just after 6pm most weekdays, Christian Nanetti counts his tips and rushes out the door of the new Soho eaterie Estado. Nanetti is a waiter now, blending into the London crowds as he heads for the Tube station to make his way out to Ashford, Kent, to train with his new club Dover Athletic. Four years ago Nanetti was an internet sensation, beating Raheem Sterling in Soccer AM’s iconic Skill Skool challenge in their battle over three rounds at QPR’s Harlington training centre. CLICK HERE to read on... A young Sterling poses for the camera during Soccer AM's Skill Skool in 2010. Sterling's former team-mate Chris Nanetti (left) is now a waiter and plays for Dover Athletic. Sterling (right) performs some tricks as his academy pals and Nanetti (left) look on. Calvin writes that Spurs turned down the chance to sign Sterling for £200,000 because academy coaches were in disagreement over his long-term potential. Fulham were assured of his talent and had Sterling in their building before Liverpool swooped to take him to Merseyside aged 15 for £500,000. Shortly before travelling north, Sterling took part in Soccer Am’s Skill School challenge, facing another promising youngster Christain Nanetti. He is most recently of Dover Athletic, a tale of just how tough it is to make the kind of ascent Sterling has managed. He is close to completing his third full season as a Liverpool first-teamer having become the club’s second-youngest debutant aged 17 years and 107 days. Sterling has made 120 appearances for Liverpool since his debut in a 2-1 defeat by Wigan in 2012. Sterling signs his £35,000-per-week contract with Ian Ayre (left) and Brendan Rodgers in 2012. Rodgers points in the direction of Sterling during following a pre-season training session in 2012. Both youthful and experienced, Sterling won the first of 14 England caps in November 2012. That call-up came three months after Brendan Rodgers admonished his player for uttering the word ‘steady’ during a pre-season training debrief. ‘You say steady to me again when I say something to you, you’ll be on the first plane back,’ said a pointing Rodgers in remarkably candid footage captured for Fox documentary Being: Liverpool. Sterling found himself in trouble with the law in August 2013, arrested on suspicion of assaulting girlfriend Shana Halliday. The Reds boss was angered by a comment from Sterling which the young forward denied. Rodgers warned the young players they must improve their attitudes during the exchange with Sterling. Sterling in action for the England Under 21s during an international friendly against Scotland in August, 2013. Sterling maintained his innocence and the following month the case collapsed at Liverpool Magistrates' Court. A previous charge of common assault was dropped in May when a witness failed to show. Another of Sterling’s tattoos is the face and name of his daughter, Melody Rose, born in 2012 following a brief relationship. There were rumours Sterling had fathered more children by different mothers. This time last year he referred to those suggestions as ‘silly’, confirming he only has one child. The youngster embraces Rodgers after scoring for Liverpool in a 3-2 victory against Norwich in 2014. The 20-year-old flew to Jamaica in January after being giving a mid-season break by Liverpool. This latest interview with the BBC was another attempt to set records straight. It did that, but perhaps not in the manner intended. No lines were drawn under his current contract talks, those stories will rumble on. Rather, his words illustrated a player fully comprehending his situation at Liverpool and in the market place. It has been a quick climb. Rodgers must convince Sterling to sign a deal that could be one of the biggest in club's history. Sterling scored a brilliant solo goal during Liverpool's 1-1 Capital One Cup semi-final draw with Chelsea. The Liverpool forward has now played 14 times for Roy Hodgson's England side.

Raheem Sterling turned down a £100,000-per-week offer from Liverpool. Sterling has two years left to run on his existing £35,000-a-week contract. The 20-year-old began his career at Queens Park Rangers in 2003. He signed for Liverpool in 2010 after seven years with QPR. Sterling was born in Kingston, Jamaica before moving to England. Liverpool attacker wants to be known as 'a kid that loves to play football'

Darren Bent has revealed an Aston Villa return this summer could be on the cards and discussions have taken place. The former England striker, on loan at Derby County, also said Villa were ‘100 per cent’ correct to sack Paul Lambert. Bent, 31, praised Tim Sherwood, who he knows from Tottenham Hotspur, and opened the door on a shock continuation of his Villa Park career even after his contract expires in June. Darren Bent has scored seven goals on loan in the Championship with promotion-chasing Derby. Paul Lambert was sacked by Aston Villa in February after two-and-a-half seasons at the club. ‘There have been conversations with Villa regarding the future and I need to have a think about things in the summer,’ Bent told the Daily Telegraph. ‘I’m not ruling out going back, just like I wouldn’t rule out staying at Derby because they have given me a lifeline to play football and score goals again. We will have to look at it. ‘A club that size should not have had the seasons we’ve had for the last couple of seasons. I enjoyed the first few years but Paul Lambert came in and it all changed, it all went downhill for me from there. ‘He made those decisions but ultimately he’s not there any more and I think it was 100 per cent right, the best thing for the football club. Bent endured a frustrating time at Villa Park while Lambert was in charge as he was left on the sidelines. Tim Sherwood has inspired at mini-revival at Villa Park since taking over earlier this year. ‘I know Tim Sherwood from Tottenham, he’s an unbelievable motivator and it’s the perfect job for him.’ Bent, who has scored seven goals since going on loan to Derby, also praised Steve McClaren as one of the best managers he has played under. ‘He’s being linked with Sunderland and Newcastle and that shows you how good he is,’ Bent added. ‘Whether we get promoted or not, we’ll definitely be trying to hold on to him this summer. He’s up there with the best of them.’

Darren Bent currently on loan at Derby County from Aston Villa. Former England striker was frozen out at Villa under Paul Lambert. Bent now says he could be back next season having had 'discussions' Bent worked with manager Tim Sherwood at Tottenham.

A gay porn star allegedly blackmailed a wealthy California man out of $500,000 by threatening to reveal details of his personal life. Teofil Brank, better known by his stage name Jarec Wentworth, was arrested on March 4 by the FBI in Los Angeles. Investigators said he tried to exact the ownership of a condo and $1 million in cash from the victim, who has only been identified as D.B. Teofil Brank, better known by his stage name Jarec Wentworth, was arrested on March 4 by the FBI in Los Angeles on blackmail charges. Investigators said Brank tried to exact the ownership of a condo and $1 million in cash from the victim. In a March 20 indictment, Brank was charged with felony extortion by threatening to injure someone's reputation. He faces up to two years in prison. In text messages to the victim, Brank threatened to post photos and other details of the man's trysts through his Twitter account, according to the affidavit. Prosecutors said the accused published a damaging comment online about the unidentified man, then removed it, the LA Times reported. The porn star wrote in text messages to the victim in February: 'I'm just going to bite hard. I want a new car,motorcycle and both hands full of cash.' 'I do have a twitter and your photos. Lies can be made or maybe it's the truth.' He went on: 'Check my twitter, the conversation will grown [sic] and questions will be asked. You lied to me and treated me like s***. I asked again and you put it behind you. Now it's biting your a**' D.B's attorneys contacted the FBI and Brank was arrested in a sting operation after the two men met up in a coffee shop where the porn star had made demands to be given cash and the title for an Audi R8 worth $180,000. Brank was found in possession of a revolver on his arrest. Brank was scheduled to appear in court on Thursday for a bail review hearing. He was previously denied bail as the judge deemed him a flight risk. Brank's attorneys appealed the decision. The porn star's public defenders also asked that the name of his victim be revealed arguing that D.B allegedly paid Brank for sex. A trial has been scheduled for May 12. Teofil Brank (pictured right) is better known by his porn stage name Jarec Wentworth. He faces up to two years in jail over the blackmail charges.

Teofil Brank, better known by his stage name Jarec Wentworth, was arrested on March 4 by the FBI in Los Angeles. Investigators said he tried to exact the ownership of a condo and $1 million in cash from the victim. Brank 'threatened to post photos and other details of the man's trysts through his Twitter account'

Homesick Sam Tomkins insists it is not a foregone conclusion that he will return to Wigan when he cuts short his New Zealand Warriors stay at the end of the season. The 26-year-old England full-back is interesting his former club, where his brother Joel plays, and Wigan have an option to bring him back to the DW Stadium. When announcing his departure barely 18 months ago, Wigan announced they could re-sign Tomkins on a 'defined salary' on his return to Super League. Sam Tomkins has been released by the New Zealand Warriors after feeling homesick. And while Tomkins says it would 'be nice' to resume his Wigan career, he is tentatively exploring alternative options too. Asked where he would be playing next, Tomkins said: 'I've not worked that out just yet. The first thing was to sort it out over here that I could go back. 'Hopefully that'll be sorted in the not-too-distant future.' Wigan is where Tomkins launched his career, playing for the club from 2008 to 2013, so it is inevitable he should be linked with last season's Grand Final runners-up. 'That's where my brother's playing and that's where I'm from, but I'm open to other places. I'm just trying to work out what will be the best option for me,' he said. 'Wigan would be nice but I know it's not the only team I can go to.' Before the announcement on Wednesday morning that Tomkins will be on the move, Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan told Wigan Today: 'If he became available we would be very interested. 'We've got the first option. If it gets to the point where he is available it is in our hands. And I'll be delighted if that was the case.' Tomkins has been open with his current club about the reasons for wanting to leave. Rather than not settling into the New Zealand game, it is being apart from his family and friends that has been niggling away at Tomkins, unsettling him and leaving him longing for life back in the north of England. He told Sky Sports News: 'I've enjoyed every minute of being amongst that group but New Zealand is pretty far from Wigan, where all my family live, so I want to be back in England around my family. Tomkins celebrates winning the Super League Grand Final with Wigan in 2013 having spent five years with club. 'I'll be two years I've been away and to be able to go back and be around family and friends is what I'd rather be doing next year.' A replacement for Tomkins has already been found by New Zealand Warriors, with Kiwi international Roger Tuivasa-Sheck agreeing a three-year contract that will take effect from next season. Tuivasa-Sheck will join from Sydney Roosters, with New Zealand Warriors head coach Andrew McFadden describing the 21-year-old on Wednesday as 'a wonderful talent and a fantastic signing'. That has cleared the way for Tomkins, currently sidelined with a minor knee injury, to depart without causing excessive disruption 12 months before the end of his three-year contract. Tomkins joined the Warriors for a world record transfer fee - thought to be in the region of £700,000. 'They invested a lot into me to get me over here which I appreciate,' he said. 'They handled that brilliantly when I was coming and again equally so when I've asked if I can leave. 'It was tough because I feel like I owe them something and hope I can pay them back with another big year this year.' New Zealand Warriors managing director Jim Doyle said of Tomkins: 'He came here excited about testing himself in the NRL and also experiencing living in a new country but, in the end, Sam has found it too much of a challenge being away from home. 'It's disappointing that it has come to this but reluctantly we have accepted there is no option but to allow Sam to return to England.' Tomkins in action for the Warriors during the round one NRL match between against the Parramatta Eels.

Sam Tomkins has been homesick after moving to New Zealand. He joined Warriors after leaving Wigan who are interested in signing him. Tomkins had been contracted until the end of the 2016 season. He said he missed home in ways he never thought he would.

A teenager from Illinois is tackling her disability head-on and attempting to positively influence thousands of others by dancing. Dayna Dobias, 19, from Downers Grove was born with cerebral palsy, but she hopes to inspire others with her enthusiastic videos. 'I've gotten bullied because of it and I get people all the time, staring and so it's definitely made things difficult in my life,' Dayna told Daily Mail Online. Scroll down for video. Challenging: Dayna Dobias, 18, is hoping change the way people with disabilities are represented by the television, film and the fashion industry. Her hope is that the video not only entertains, but inspires others to think before judging. The teenager says her motivation for creating the video was to counteract stereotypes held by people over certain disabilities. 'People tend to think that because I have cerebral palsy I cannot do anything and that I am so different from everyone else, when in reality I am pretty much just the same as everyone else,' she added. 'I might do things a little bit differently than most people, but that doesn't mean that I should be treated differently.' This is one of several videos that Dayna has created. Last year the teenager produced another dancing clip with her strutting her stuff to Taylor Swift's Shake It Off. Inspirational: The Illinois teen who suffers from cerebal palsy has created a video in which she dances. Don't judge: People tend to think that because I have cerebral palsy I cannot do anything and that I am so different from everyone else, when in reality I am pretty much just the same as everyone else,' Dayna says. 'People like to define me based on disability. People just look at me and think, oh that's just the girl with cerebral palsy,' she said. 'I would like people to look past that and be like, oh she's just one of us.' Dayna says she wanted to turn any negativity that might be held over her disability into something positive and hopefully inspire others, or at the very least raise a smile. 'When I was first diagnosed with cerebral palsy, doctors warned my parents that I may never walk, but here I am dancing! I drive, I go to college, I do things like every other 19-year-old,' she says. The teen has now begun to do some motivational speaking at a couple of local schools. Confident: Dayna has now taken up motivational speaking and has visited several schools in the Chicago area.

Dayna Dobias, 19, has created a video in which she dances despite having a disability that makes it difficult for her to walk. She loves TV, film and fashion, and says she’s not happy with how people with disabilities are represented. The teen has created several videos during the past year aimed at changing stereotypes.

Christian Benteke rescued Aston Villa from the drop zone with a brilliant late free-kick to seal his hat-trick and salvage a point against relegation rivals Queens Park Rangers. Tim Sherwood’s team were set to drop into the bottom three when Charlie Austin scored his 17th Premier League goal of the season 12 minutes from the end, before Benteke’s intervention five minutes later to cap off a pulsating game. The point lifts QPR above Burnley to 18th on goal difference, while Villa move above Hull to 16th. Tim Sherwood was disappointed that Aston Villa's domination of QPR did not result in three points for his side. Sherwood did concede that the point taken could be vital and praised Christian Benteke for his hat-trick. Sherwood said: ‘I’m disappointed with a point when we’ve dominated the match like that. The referee should have stopped it at half-time. Anyone who has seen that football match knows it shouldn’t have been close. ‘But it’s not about what you deserve, it’s about what you actually get. This could be a vital point come the end of the season. When you’re going so late into the game and Christian’s had to pull that one out of the bag, we’re grateful for that.’ Chris Ramsey was equally frustrated that his team only took a point from Villa Park, having twice led, initially through Matt Phillips’ header. Benteke equalised with a deflected shot before putting Villa ahead before the break with a cool finish. Defender Clint Hill levelled the game with a header before Austin struck and Benteke scored his seventh goal in five Villa games to ensure honours finished even. Benteke was Villa's star man, twice pulling them level with three goals that earned a point at Villa Park. Charlie Austin had scored late on for QPR as they looked to claim and unlikely away end in the Midlands. Ramsey praised Benteke, saying: ‘He is a formidable player. When you are playing against people that can pull out that little bit of magic, sometimes you have to hold your hands up. His free-kick was a fantastic strike in off the post against a top keeper, who had it been anywhere else probably would have saved it.’ The QPR head coach added: ‘Based on the way we played in the second half and the beginning of the first half you have to be disappointed you haven’t been able to get above the line, which was the aim before we started the last two games. We showed tonight we’re more than capable of doing that. I don’t know what we need but we’re probably going to have to win three games. We know our next home games will be very important. We have the potential cup final against Leicester on the last game of the season. QPR head coach Chris Ramsey called Benteke a 'formidable player' after he took apart the visitors. Sherwood and Ramsey embrace before kick-off having spent periods of their careers working together. ‘Any team would take being in it right till the end and then roll the dice. You don’t want to become detached where every game is a mountain to climb. There is a belief in the camp they are capable of surviving, there is no doom and gloom.’ Sherwood added: ‘We’re creating chances, aren’t we? I can’t really understand why they scored 12 goals before I came in, incredible really for players with that kind of strike-rate... we must keep our tempo up and shore it up at the back. Otherwise we could find ourselves in trouble.’ Sherwood now takes his team to Tottenham and Manchester City. ‘Who is to say we can’t go to any of those games and win?’ he said. ‘We’ll try. We can’t do what QPR have done today, we’ll play on the front foot.’ .

Aston Villa draw 3-3 with QPR with Christian Benteke scoring a hat-trick. Tim Sherwood felt his side should have got more than a draw from clash. Villa dominated for long periods but almost lost to fall into bottom three. Benteke's late free-kick rescued them from that fate at Villa Park. Chris Ramsey praises the Belgian for being a 'formidable player'

Marcelo Bosch basked in the gratitude of his team-mates after kicking Saracens into the semi-finals of the Champions Cup in dramatic scenes in north Paris. Bosch, striking the ball into a strong wind, landed a 55-metre penalty in the final act of the last eight showdown against Racing Metro to snatch a 12-11 victory at the Stade Yves-Du-Manoir. It completed a scarcely believable win given Saracens had been battered for most of the match only to display remarkable tenacity and set up a semi-final appointment with Clermont in St Etienne in two weeks. Marcelo Bosch kicks the winning penalty as Saracens beat Racing Metro 12-11. Bosch is mobbed by his team-mates after scoring the kick that won his team the game. Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall admitted he was surprised to see Bosch taking the penalty. 'With kicks like this you're either the hero of the day or the bad guy, so I'm happy that it went my way. I just stayed relaxed and fortunately it went through the posts,' Bosch, 31, said. 'Sometimes they ask me if I'm keen to take the long-range kicks and because of the wind it was not a good distance for the other kickers. I said 'why not? I can take it' and the rest is history. 'The last time I did a kick like that was when I was 21 and playing for an amateur club in Argentina. It was from more or less the same range against our classico rivals. 'It was a great memory for me, but it was a long time ago. I tried to be as relaxed as possible because we had the wind in our face and I didn't want to force it. 'It was the last minute of the game so I was tired and tried not to think about what it represented.' Bosch also executed a try-saving tackle on Racing wing Juan Imhoff when all his Argentina team-mate had to do was fall over the line for a potentially decisive final-quarter try. 'Juan is a real player. He's like a striker - always smelling the goal. I followed him and fortunately stopped him from scoring at the end,' Bosch said. Until Bosch delivered the knockout blow - referee Nigel Owens awarded the penalty with 10 seconds left on the clock - a full blooded quarter-final that was often a poor spectacle appeared to be destined for a home win. Saracens fly-half Charlie Hodgson kicked one penalty and full-back Alex Goode supplied six points to keep the match favourites in sight. Two second-half penalties from scrum-half Maxime Machenaud, who also crossed for the game's solitary try in the 27th minute, placed Racing in control that the Parisians only relinquished as Owens was preparing to blow for full time. 'I was surprised to see it was Bosch taking it because I though it was in Alex Goode's range,' Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall said. 'But the wind was very strong, so it was Bosch's range. He had the nerve and balls to say he wanted it, which is half the battle. He hit it pretty sweetly. 'Marcelo is pretty cool. He's pretty laid back, but like anybody, that's one of those kicks that if you miss it can cause the damage. 'I'm very grateful that he held his nerve. He also made the tackle on our goalline that kept us in the match as well. Chris Ashton (left) of Saracens is tackled by Juan Imhoff of Racing Metro in the quarter-final clash. Alex Goode (centre) of Saracens sprints with the ball as Jamie Roberts (right) approaches. 'We weren't great in the first half even though we had a very strong wind behind us. But that's where it turned around and I'd say our second half performance was as courageous, brave and hard working as I've seen. 'We went hunting and kept knocking them down and scrapped for absolutely everything.' Racing's Wales centre Jamie Roberts was distraught at the outcome. 'I'm hugely frustrated and gutted for the team. We thought we had it in the bag. That last minute cost us so fair play to Marcelo with the kick at the end,' Roberts said.

Marcelo Bosch secured a 12-11 win for Saracens against Racing Metro. Saracens struggled for most of the Champions Cup quarter-final. But Bosch's huge penalty conversion saw them make the semi-final.

Esteban Cambiasso has won all the major European competitions a player can during his illustrious career but revealed that keeping Leicester City in the Premier League would be up there with the best. The Foxes are currently seven points adrift at the bottom of the table, with only eight games remaining, knowing that time is running out to save themselves. Cambiasso refuses to give up and admits that keeping Leicester up will feel like winning a trophy. Esteban Cambiasso says that helping keep Leicester in the Premier League will feel like winning a trophy. 'For me, it's like another cup,' he told BBC East Midlands Today. 'When you start another season you have an objective, and this is the objective for us. 'For me, winning a cup or winning the league with another team is the same now as having the possibility to save Leicester in the Premier League.' The Argentinian midfielder poses with the trophy after his team won the 2010 FIFA Club World Cup. Cambiasso had an illustrious career at Inter Milan, winning an impressive 15 trophies during his stint. River Plate (2001-2002) Argentine Primera Division. Real Madrid (2002-2004) La Liga. Super Cup. Supercopa de Espana. Inter Milan (2004-2014) Champions League. Serie A (5) Coppa Italia (4) Supercoppa (4) FIFA Club World Cup. Having not won a game since January, Nigel Pearson's men face West Ham United on Saturday and Cambiasso is still convinced they can avoid the drop. 'I understood when I signed for Leicester it's not an easy job to stay in the Premier League,' he said. 'It's a difficult situation but I think we have our chances to win matches. There's a quarter of the Premier League left to finish. 'I think some people think for Leicester all is finished. But I'm sure, because I watch my team-mates every day, we can save Leicester and stay in the Premier League.' The former Inter Milan star signed for the Foxes in the summer, leaving Italy after ten years and embarking on a new challenge in England. After agreeing to a one-year-deal, Cambiasso has quickly established himself as a key player but it remains to be seen if he'll still be in the East Midlands at the start of next season. The former Real Madrid man was also successful during his short spell in Spain for Real Madrid. Cambiasso played during Real's 'Galatico' era, with Luis Figo, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo and David Beckham. 'Leicester always wanted me,' he added. 'After these nine months or eight months, I'm very happy because my family is OK, and I'm good. 'I want a few more points, but all the rest is perfect.' Cambiasso is happy in the East Midlands and could stay beyond his current one-year-deal.

Esteban Cambiasso says saving Leicester will feel like winning a trophy. The Argentinian has become a key player for Nigel Pearson's side. Leicester are currently seven points adrift at the bottom of the table. CLICK HERE for all the latest Leicester City news.

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.

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.

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.

Forget helicopters and BMWs, could the ultimate symbol of wealth be clothes made from gold? On a catwalk show which took place in Xi'an, the capital city of north-western China's Shaanxi province, models strutted their stuff in items made from the precious metal. Including underwear and a chain-mail style shirt which it has been revealed would be worth around £40,000. And this was no lightweight affair either. On a catwalk in Xi'an in China models strutted their stuff in gold underwear, it is thought the look is influenced by royal women in history. The shirt alone worn by the male model weighed in at 7lbs and the matching bra and underwear for the female model also came in at 7lbs. The idea for real gold clothing takes its inspiration from royal women in history, including Cleopatra, Marie Antoinette and Tsarina Alexandra who all reportedly had gold clothing. The organisers of the event said that it took 30 craftsmen three months to make the gold shirt and the women's clothing which is also worth around £40,000. Fashion photographer Manchu Peng, 30, who attended event said: 'There were some good designs there but the gold clothing items really stole the show.' It took 30 craftsmen three month to make this shirt which is mean out of real gold and has a chain-mail style. The model showed off his shirt as on-lookers checked out how the design was made. The idea came after a Chinese designer unveiled an extraordinary set of underwear made entirely of gold last year. The items however were produced as a work of art and not intended for sale. They were modelled by an unnamed woman who was joined by two other models - both of whom posed with glittering gold accessories, including necklaces, a shoe and a rabbit at a store in China. These two women proudly showed off their gold underwear, the items are not for sale but are said to be worth around £40,000. This gold underwear set has an intricate design with the model wearing a pair of white pants underneath it to protect her modesty. And prior to that a Turkish jeweller unveiled a series glamorous gold dresses - each worth a staggering £85,000. Artisan Ahmet Atakan, based in Izmir, a city in Turkey, crafted each frock out of a total of 78,000 pieces of the expensive metal to form a mesh-like fabric. Despite the eye-watering price tag of 300 thousand Turkish Liras (about £84,800), eight of the unique gowns have already been sold.

Designs made from real gold were shown on the catwalk in Xi'an China. Models strutted their stuff in underwear and a shirt made from gold. The items cost around £40,000 each but are not intended for sale.

Mesut Ozil has avoided a fine after being spotted in a nightclub just hours after missing the win at Newcastle through illness. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has spoken to Ozil about the incident and insists he is satisfied with the £42.5million man's explanation. Given he missed the clash at St James' Park with a cold, his appearance at a Berlin nightspot raised eyebrows, but Wenger said: 'He went out for 30 minutes for a friends birthday, I was satisfied with his explanation.' Arsene Wenger has chosen not to sanction Mesut Ozil for going to a Berlin nightclub hours after missing Arsenal's Premier League clash with Newcastle United last month. Ozil explained to Wenger that he had attended a friend's birthday and was only in the club for 30 minutes. Quizzed on whether he was getting soft on discipline, Wenger bristled: 'I’m not going soft on discipline. I’ve fined people when they work for us and don’t respect the discipline. 'On that front I don’t think you can stop anybody from wishing happy birthday to a friend when he is in his own country.' Speaking ahead of Saturday's showdown with Liverpool, the Frenchman confirmed that Mikel Arteta, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jack Wilshere, Mathieu Debuchy and Abou Diaby had all returned to training but weren't yet ready to make their return. Forward Danny Welbeck could make the side at the Emirates after missing England's friendly with Italy on Tuesday with a knee injury sustained in the Euro 2016 qualifying win over Lithuania. Wenger praised Welbeck's contribution to the side, despite scoring just eight times in 29 club appearances since his £16m move from Manchester United on deadline day back in September. When asked whether Welbeck had been unfairly overlooked for England, Wenger said: 'Maybe. I don’t overlook him personally because he’s played many, many games for us and I think he’s an important player who contributes a lot. 'Not only does he now score goals, but as well contributes a lot to the team work. He’s a team player and I believe technically he has improved a lot. Danny Welbeck could return to the Arsenal side for Saturday's showdown with Liverpool after a knee injury. Wenger confirmed that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain had returned to training after injury. April 4 Liverpool (H) April 11 Burnley (A) April 18 Reading (Wembley) FA Cup semi-final. April 26 Chelsea (H) May 2 Hull City (A) May 9 Swansea City (H) May 16 Manchester United (A) May 20 Sunderland (H) May 24 West Bromwich Albion (H) 'When you look at him now I believe that technically he is much more mature, more composed in front of goal, the quality of his runs is getting better and he has huge, huge attributes.' The talk of the international fortnight has been about whether Welbeck will lose his place in the England side to Tottenham hotshot Harry Kane, who also found the net at Wembley on Friday night. Wenger said: 'We are not there yet. Harry Kane played one game and it’s good for England to have many options and to choose the best one. 'Welbeck until now has always been the chosen best one and I don’t see how on Friday night Roy Hodgson could change his mind.' Arsenal have won their last six Premier League matches, leaving them third in the table, some seven points behind leaders Chelsea. But Wenger believes it is still a tall order to win the league despite their excellent recent form. Arsenal are currently seven points behind leaders Chelsea in the Premier League table. Wenger backed Welbeck to keep his England place despite Tottenham striker Harry Kane's scoring debut. He said: 'We have the aspiration to win the next game and that’s quite good enough. After that, win the next one. 'What is mathematically possible you have to try to achieve but that doesn’t depend only on us. What does only depend on us in the final run is our performances and our results, so let’s focus on that. 'After that if everything goes for us, you never know, but you can only master your own performances so let’s focus on that and be realistic and continue to earn the right to win the games. That’s what we want.' Martin Skrtel powered home a stoppage time header to earn Liverpool a 2-2 draw against Arsenal at Anfield. Mathieu Debuchy had earlier been on target for Arsenal when the teams met back in December. While Arsenal are unlikely to claim the title, they could put another dent in Liverpool's top four ambitions, bruised after their 2-1 home defeat to Manchester United before the international break. Wenger said: 'Liverpool is a good side, there is always a good game at the Emirates and at Liverpool as well. 'I have a big respect for the club, but I am just focused on the game and focused to produce the performance we have produced recently, and make sure that the right commitment is there to win the game.'

Ozil will not be sanctioned for being spotted in Berlin nightclub. It came hours after missing match at Newcastle through illness. German star explained to Wenger that he was attending friend's birthday. Arsenal play Liverpool at the Emirates on Saturday lunchtime. Danny Welbeck could return after knee injury suffered on England duty. Gunners trail Premier League leaders Chelsea by seven points.

John Carver knows only too well that a Tyne-Wear derby can make or break a manager. His first in the dugout was as assistant to Ruud Gullit in August, 1999, when on a sodden night at St James' Park the Dutchman left out Alan Shearer and Duncan Ferguson and paid for his selection with his job after a 2-1 defeat. Carver is now fighting to win the head coach position beyond the end of this season and knows what impact a victory – or a loss – could have on Sunday afternoon. John Carver is relishing the chance to take charge of his hometown club against Sunderland on Sunday. Gullit controversially decided not to start star players Duncan Ferguson and Alan Shearer in 1999. Carver was assistant to former Newcastle manager Ruud Gullit who managed the club between 1998 and 1999. His memories of Gullit's downfall remind him of such consequences. 'We were at the old training ground at Durham Cricket Club and I was in the room with Steve Clarke and Ruud,' recalls Carver. 'All of a sudden, he started talking about what the team was going to be against Sunderland. I said, 'Sorry Ruud, what did you say there?'. 'He said he was going to leave out Alan and Duncan. I said, 'Do you know how important this game is?'. 'He said, 'I have played in some massive derbies. I've played in them in Holland and London and I played in the Milan derby too'. 'I said, 'Yeah, but you haven't played in one like this Ruud'. 'And then we just walked out of the room. He seemed set on the fact that was what he was going to do. 'I talked about it being a motivation for the opposition seeing Alan and Duncan on the bench. But he had no concerns whatsoever. 'I actually thought, 'If we don't win it, he's gone'. I said to Steve, 'Is he writing his resignation before the game?'. Gullit's selection gambit did not pay off and Newcastle ended up losing 2-1 to Sunderland at St James' Park. 'We actually went 1-0 up but they turned it around and then the heavens opened. It was a dreadful night.' The following morning Shearer went to see Gullit, only Ferguson had beaten him to it, knocking the door off the hinges, legend has it. By the end of the week he had quit. Carver was also by Alan Pardew's side during the last four derby defeats, a factor the former manager admits did him little favours with the Toon Army. In that respect, Carver knows how much a positive result could aid his chances of landing the job on a permanent basis. 'In the eyes of the fans, if you win a derby game, it's massive,' he said. 'I'm not saying everything else is forgotten, but it certainly helps your case. If I come off and it's not been a football match but we win 1-0, I'll be delighted with that. 'We had a good football match last weekend (2-1 defeat at home to Arsenal) and got nothing for it. At the end of the day, it's all about getting the win.' Carver was also assistant manager to Alan Pardew, who lost four successive games against Sunderland.

Newcastle boss John Carver is relishing the chance to take charge of his hometown club against Sunderland in the Wear-Tyne Derby. Carver has been part of the coaching staff for previous Newcastle managers Alan Pardew, Sir Bobby Robson and Ruud Gullit. He was Gullit's assistant when Newcastle were beaten 2-1 by Sunderland after the Dutchman benched Alan Shearer and Duncan Ferguson. Carver insists that he will not make the same mistakes as his predecessor.

Questionable hairstyles are not a new phenomenon in modern day football, but Brazilian player Ratinho has taken ridiculous barnets to a whole new level with his latest effort. The Remo midfielder sported his new hairdo during his side's Brazilian Cup clash with Atletico PR on Thursday night. Very much an ode to the beautiful game, the 35-year-old had hexagon panels shaved into his head to resemble a football. Remo midfielder Ratinho sported his new hairstyle in the Brazilian Cup on Thursday night. The 35-year-old had hexagon panels shaved into his head to resemble a football. Ratinho's side secured a 1-1 draw on the night thanks to a 76th minute strike from Igor Joao. Remo certainly drew plenty of attention during the game with the veteran midfielder copping a number of heavy challenges during a physical first half. For the record, Ratinho's side secured a 1-1 draw on the night. Felipe put Atletico PR just after the break before Igor Joao salvaged a draw in the 76th minute at the Estadio Olímpico do Para. Ratinho is left reeling on the deck after the veteran midfielder cops a heavy challenge in the first half.

Ratinho was playing for Remo in the Brazilian Cup on Thursday night. Remo salvaged a late draw against Atletico PR. Igor Joao struck in the 76th minute for Remo.

An inmate at an Arizona jail left one officer hospitalized with brain bleeding and broken bones in his face after a psychiatric ward assault. The 18-year-old, who was booked into Lower Buckeye Jail in Phoenix two weeks ago, is seen on surveillance video walking in a room he was not authorized to be in before being approached by two officers. Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio said that the two jail employees began telling the young man to go back to his cell before he began taking swings at them. Scroll down for video. An assault on an officer at a jail in Phoenix has left one officer in intensive care with brain bleeding. Above, the inmate is captured on video in a psychiatric ward area where he is not authorized. Officers including Scott Beaty (center) approached the unidentified 18-year-old inmate and told him to go back to his cell. The inmate then began punching Beatty and the other officer in the room, who used a Taser but could not subdue the young man. The unnamed inmate, who was not immediately affected by four taser shots, was eventually subdued by a large group of officers who came to the scene. Three detention officers were taken to a nearby hospital, and two of them had been knocked unconscious. Scott Beaty, a 15-year-veteran, was taken to the intensive care unit and will need reconstructive surgery after suffering a brain bleed and broken bones in his face. The inmate, who did not have any prior incidents of bad behavior, was not injured. After knocking Beaty to the ground, the inmate is seen attacking the other officer, who was also taken to a nearby hospital. More officers arrived on the scene where the assault took place, though additional taser shots did not immediately affect the 18-year-old. The unidentified inmate was eventually subdued by a group of officers, who saw their colleague knocked out on the ground after being hit repeatedly. 'Sometimes when you have a mental condition you fight and get super mad,' Arpaio said during a press conference, though he did not elaborate on the mental condition. Arpaio said he could not speculate on what led to the attack. The prisoner became 'very violent' according to officials, and was reportedly fighting until he was put in lock down in the psychiatric ward, where he remains. He will only be allowed out for one hour a day. Though he was booked into Lower Buckeye for a minor felony charge, the prisoner will now face aggravated assault charges. Arpaio said that there have been 178 incidents of assault at his county's jails in the last 12 months. Beaty was taken to the intensive care unit after the incident, where he suffered broken bones in his face and brain bleeding. Three of four officers injured in the attack went to the hospital. The inmate was not injured during the incident.

Unidentified 18-year-old told by guards in Arizona jail to go back to his cell. Inmate at Phoenix facility punched two officers, knocking them out. Young man eventually subdued, though four taser shots didn't work. Scott Beaty, 44, in intensive care with broken facial bones and brain bleed.

A man has admitted to ripping another man’s scrotum with a metal hook after he thought a concreting job wasn’t up to scratch. Stephen John Docherty, 66, pleaded guilty to wounding with intent when he appeared at in the Whakatane District Court on Wednesday, NZ media reported. According to police Mr Docherty hired the victim to complete concrete works at his property. A man has admitted to ripping another man’s scrotum with a metal hook after he thought a concreting job wasn’t up to scratch. At around 3.30pm on March 17 Mr Docherty was agitated when he returned to find the work wasn’t carried out to his specifications. At the time, the victim was not on the work site but a contractor told Mr Docherty he would be back shortly. He told the contractor he would rip the man’s penis off. Once the victim returned, the two men got in a heated argument. Mr Docherty then repeated that he would rip the man's genitals off. He then returned with a 15 centimetre long hook that had been fashioned from a steel rod. Mr Docherty pleaded guilty to wounding with intent when he appeared at in the Whakatane District Court on Wednesday. Mr Docherty proceeded to grip the hook and reach it down past the victim's crotch. He then abruptly pulled the hook up causing it to tear into the mans pants and scrotum. The victim’s scrotum was torn and he required surgery after the attack. Mr Docherty said he lost control of his temper in the heat of the moment. He was remanded on bail and will await a hearing on June 12.

Stephen Docherty admitted he lost control when he attacked a concreter. He took a large hook and tore another man's scrotum open. The victim just finished a concrete job on Mr Docherty's home. Mr Docherty said the job was not done to his specifications.

Former Valencia striker Aritz Aduriz denied his old team victory with a last-gasp equaliser for Athletic Bilbao at San Mames Stadium. Aduriz pounced in the 90th minute to secure a 1-1 draw after Valencia had been reduced to 10 men. Nicolas Otamendi had harshly received a straight red card eight minutes earlier for a high challenge, and Valencia were unable to hold out in his absence. Athletic Bilbao Aritz Aduriz scored a 90th minute equaliser to deny his former club Valencia victory. Substitute Rodrigo De Paul celebrates after coming on to give Valencia the lead. Substitute Rodrigo De Paul had given the visitors a deserved lead 16 minutes into the second period, but even though they were unable to claim maximum points, a draw took them above Sevilla into fourth place in their pursuit of possible Champions League qualification. Getafe bolstered their hopes of securing Primera Division status for next season after moving 10 points clear of the bottom three by edging to a 1-0 win at struggling Elche. Fredy Hinestroza scored the only goal of the game with only five minutes remaining in a rare attack for Getafe, after the hosts had spurned a series of chances in the first half. Getafe celebrate after taking a step closer to survival by defeating Elche through Fredy Hinestroza's strike. Ecuadorian Felipe Caicedo scored twice for Espanyol in the 3-0 defeat of Villarreal. Elsewhere, Espanyol extended Villarreal's winless streak to six games in all competitions as two goals from Felipe Caicedo handed the Catalans a 3-0 win at El Madrigal. Caicedo had a slice of fortune in opening the scoring as Javi Lopez's miscued header deflected off the Ecuadorian and he then thumped home his second of the evening after the break at Sergio Asenjo's near post. Asenjo had a night to forget as he also spilled Sergio Garcia's cross 11 minutes from time to allow Victor Sanchez to roll the ball into an empty net to complete Villarreal's misery.

Valencia were held to a 1-1 draw by Athletic Bilbao after Aritz Aduriz netted. Getafe boosted survival chances with 1-0 win over strugglers Elche. Felipe Caicedo scored a brace in Espanyol's 3-0 defeat of Villarreal.

Munster have signed New Zealand international Francis Saili on a two-year deal. Utility back Saili, who made his All Blacks debut against Argentina in 2013, will move to the province later this year after the completion of his 2015 contractual commitments. The 24-year-old currently plays for Auckland-based Super Rugby side the Blues and was part of the New Zealand Under-20 side that won the Junior World Championship in Italy in 2011. Saili's signature is something of a coup for Munster and head coach Anthony Foley believes he will be a great addition to their backline. Francis Saili has signed a two-year deal to join Munster and will link up with them later this year. 'We are really pleased that Francis has committed his future to the province,' Foley told Munster's official website. 'He is a talented centre with an impressive skill-set and he possesses the physical attributes to excel in the northern hemisphere. 'I believe he will be a great addition to our backline and we look forward to welcoming him to Munster.' Saili has been capped twice by New Zealand  and was part of the Under 20 side that won the Junior Championship in 2011. Saili, who joins All Black team-mates Dan Carter, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith and Charles Piutau in agreeing to ply his trade in the northern hemisphere, is looking forward to a fresh challenge. He said: 'I believe this is a fantastic opportunity for me and I am fortunate to move to a club held in such high regard, with values and traditions I can relate to from my time here in the Blues. 'This experience will stand to me as a player and I believe I can continue to improve and grow within the Munster set-up. 'As difficult as it is to leave the Blues I look forward to the exciting challenge ahead.'

Utility back Francis Saili will join up with Munster later this year. The New Zealand international has signed a two-year contract. Saili made his debut for the All Blacks against Argentina in 2013.

It was not particularly pretty but Andy King’s 86th minute winner has kept Leicester City’s hopes of Premier League survival alive, at least for now. There was a frantic sense of do or die in the closing stages at the King Power stadium. Pearson and his players surely knew anything less than three points against West Ham, a side who have not won away from home since December 2nd, would see them doomed to relegation. At the final whistle, the players went to all four corners of the stadium to applaud their fans. Just four points behind Sunderland with six of their eight remaining games to be played at home, it is very much game on for Foxes. Andy King was the hero as Premier League strugglers Leicester City struck late to earn a vital three points against West Ham United. Leicester City hero King is joined by veteran striker David Nugent following the Welsh midfielder's late winner against West Ham United. Seasoned professional Nugent had the chance to all but secure Leicester City victory but the striker missed from the spot. Nugent saw his penalty kick thwarted by West Ham United's Spanish goalkeeper Adrian during the Premier League clash at the King Power. It was eyeballs out, quickfire action from the 80th minute. The Hammers had a flurry of chances with Schmeichel forced into two good saves and at the other end Aaron Cresswell made a miraculous block on the line to deny a Andrej Kramaric effort. But substitute Kramaric supplied Jamie Vardy whose scuffed shot was tapped in by King from two yards out. Pearson and his opposite number Sam Allardyce embraced and shared a raucous laugh before kick-off. Both are somewhat relieved of pressure. Nugent rues his missed opportunity as the former England international is denied a goal for relegation threatened Leicester City. West Ham United instantly punish the Foxes as Senegalese international Cheikhou Kouyate scores their past Kasper Schmeichel. Leicester: (4-2-3-1) Schmeichel 6.5; De Laet 6 (King 79 6), Morgan 6, Huth 5.5, Schlupp 6; James 6.5, Cambiasso 7.5; Mahrez 7 (Albrighton, 45 7), Nugent 6, Vardy 7; Ulloa 6 (Kramaric 72 8) Subs: Konchesky, Drinkwater, King, Albrighton, Wasilewski, Schwarzer, Kramaric. Booked: None. Scorers: Cambiasso (12) King (86) Nigel Pearson: 7. West Ham: (4-3-2-1) Adrian 7; Jenkinson 5, Collins 6, Reid 5.5, Cresswell 6.5; Noble 5, Song 6.5, Kouyate 7.5; Downing 6, Nolan 5.5 (Amalfitano 65 6); Sakho 7 (Cole 80, 6) Subs: Jaaskelainen, Demel, O'Brien, Amalfitano, Jarvis, Cole, Nene. Booked: Jenkinson, Redi, Collins, Cresswell. Scorers: Koutaye (32) Sam Allardyce: 5.5. Referee - Mark Clattenburg: 6.5. How Andy King scored late Leicester City winner, CLICK HERE for more Match Zone. West Ham United's Senegalese international Kouyate celebrates after scoring to make it 1-1 while Wes Morgan appeals to the linesman. Leicester City take the lead via a spectacular effort from footballing legend Esteban Cambiasso at the King Power Stadium on Saturday. Cambiasso celebrates after scoring to make it 1-0 during the Premier League match between Leicester City and West Ham United. West Ham have had their Premier League survival all but assured since before Christmas and it appears even securing a finish outside of the Premier League’s bottom six for a third successive season – a feat not achieved since the last century – cannot win Allardyce a new contract. Meanwhile nobody realistically expected Leicester to escape their current predicament at the foot of the Barclay’s Premier League and seven points from safety before this game. If they do it will represent a remarkable turnaround in results. The message pre-match from Pearson and midfielder Jamie Vardy was that if they could recapture the spirit they showed in a 4-3 defeat against Leicester a fortnight ago they would overcome the Hammers. In starting the consistently lively Riyad Mahrez, an attacking intent was demonstrated and the home side were lively from the start. James Collins, the 31-year-old Welshman, made several important clearances in the first ten minutes for West Ham and the travelling fans responded with a chorus of ‘he’s the ginger Pele.’ But it was as he retreated to goal that the ball ricocheted off his back and into the path of Esteban Cambiasso who cooly put Leicester ahead after 12 minutes. The ball bounced kindly for the Argentinian whose sublime right footed strike just outside the D sailed in. As his teammates rushed to celebrate, he showed a wise head by urging them to get back into position. Cambiasso slides to his knees as he celebrates in front of the Leicester City fans following his opener for the relegation threatened Foxes. Leonardo Ulloa draws a foul from Carl Jenkinson during the Barclays Premier league match Leicester City and West Ham United. Moments later referee Mark Clattenburg made the right decision to award the home side a penalty after Carl Jenkinson brought down Leonardo Ulloa. But David Nugent's effort from the spot was woeful, low, right down the middle and easily saved by Adrian. They were left to rue the missed opportunity when the Hammers pulled one back in the 32nd minute. Alex Song sent a floating ball into he box which soared over the head Jeffrey Schupp and was controlled by Cheikou Kouyate, the Senegalese firing low and powerfully into the bottom left corner past a helpless Kasper Schmeichel. Kouyate was close to doubling his goal tally in the 73rd minute, his shot from Sakho’s lay off hitting the post. Meanwhile Vardy had two good chances in as many minutes. In a thrilling display of end-to-end action both sides demonstrated the best of their attacking wares and some rather poor defending too but ultimately Leicester deserved to come out on top. West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble holds off Matthew James during the Barclays Premier league match at The King Power Stadium. West Ham United's Spanish goalkeeper Adrian comes out to try and deny Vardy a goal during the Premier League clash.

Relegation strugglers Leicester City took the lead in the first half thanks to footballing legend Esteban Cambiasso. Nigel Pearson's side had the chance to double their lead three minutes later when the hosts were awarded a penalty. However, Foxes striker David Nugent failed to convert the penalty as Spanish goalkeeper Adrian saved smartly. West Ham United equalised with 32 minutes gone when Senegalese international Cheikhou Kouyate found the net. Bot sides hit the post in the second half but it was Leicester City who earned a vital win thanks to Andy King.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Raheem Sterling's controversial 'It's-Not-About-The-Money' campaign led him to the Emirates Stadium, where Liverpool and Arsenal fans united to protest against the rising price of football for travelling fans. '£5bn and what do we get? £64 a ticket' read one banner, held across the home and away fans before kick-off. Hopefully the irony wasn't lost on Sterling, even if it did not interfere with his football. It was a difficult afternoon for Raheem Sterling, who toiled as Arsenal surged to victory over Liverpool. Sterling (centre) is crowded out by Arsenal players as he struggled to impose himself on the game. Sterling was brought down by Hector Bellerin for Liverpool's penalty, which was only a consolation. Sterling tussles with Per Mertersacker (left) and struggled to repeatedly threaten Arsenal's defence. Crowd reaction:. Quite indifferent. A few jeers from the Arsenal fans now and then, but nothing serious. They wouldn't want to put him off. After all, he's flattered by the interest. No notable dissent from Liverpool fans, away in the far corner. They joined his appeals for a penalty when he had been nudged over by Hector Bellerin. Body Language:. Good. Bright and busy. Energetic, showed willingly for the ball and didn't shirk the physical battle with Per Mertesacker in the first half. Keen to pick up the ball and run in the second half. Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers looks on as Sterling watches the play unfold. Sterling was positioned in an advanced role for Liverpool, a position he admits he prefers playing. Sterling looks dejected as Liverpool were comfortably beaten by Arsenal in the Premier League. Position:. Started up front where he likes it (and not at wing-back where it seems he doesn’t) because Daniel Sturridge was only fit enough for the bench after the hip injury which ruled him out of England duty. Jordan Henderson deputised at right-wing-back. Sturridge came on to replace Lazar Markovic at the break, with Liverpool three down. Sterling dropped to be one of the support strikers, from the left. Mertesacker (right) puts in a challenge on Sterling in the early Saturday game in the Premier League. Sterling (left) is challenged by Arsenal's attacking midfielder Mesut Ozil in the game at The Emirates. Form:. Early tackle from Laurent Koscielny which left him on his back, holding his foot. Slid one shot wide form edge of box. Unable to reach a pass from Markovic when Markovic should have taken on the shot. More involved after the break when he switched to the left wing and Liverpool threw caution to the wind. Really came to life in the last 20 minutes, winning the penalty scored by Henderson, 15 minutes from time, when fouled by Bellerin. Sterling (right) takes the ball beyond Arsenal midfield player Aaron Ramsey at The Emirates. Sterling (centre) is blocked off by Bellerin of Arsenal, who scored the opener after 37 minutes. Interaction. Limited. Played up front alone. Nothing much to celebrate. Hugs and handshakes after the match for a few Arsenal players but not with his team-mates. Joined his team-mates when they trudged over to applaud the fans at the end and left the pitch in conversation with Sturridge. Sterling (right) shares a joke with Daniel Sturridge in the warm-up before the game against Arsenal. Sterlign (right) gets a delivery into the penalty area as Bellerin attempts to block. Sterling (right) trudges off of the pitch after being humbled by Arsenal in a 4-1 loss at The Emirates. Verdict:. Among Liverpool’s better players, but unable to seize the game and produce the sort of performance that would enhance his negotiating stance and convince the world he belongs at the very top.

Raheem Sterling fails to impose himself as Arsenal beat Liverpool 4-1. He won the penalty that Jordan Henderson scored for Liverpool. Sterling spoke out about his contract situation at Liverpool in the week.

Arsene Wenger says that Arsenal will have to be perfect until the end of the season if they want to challenge for the title — but maintains that they will be ready if Chelsea slip. Arsenal thrashed Liverpool 4-1 at home with goals from Hector Bellerin, Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez and Olivier Giroud and are seven points behind Chelsea, with the Premier League leaders having to visit The Emirates in two weeks’ time — although Jose Mourinho’s team still have a game in hand. And Wenger says his team have to focus on winning every game in order to be ready for any setbacks that Chelsea may suffer. Arsene Wenger is not letting his team get ahead of themselves despite an excellent win on Saturday. Hector Bellerin celebrates after putting Arsenal 1-0 ahead against Liverpool in the first half on Saturday. ‘If the opportunity presents itself, we will have to be perfect and Chelsea have to be not perfect,’ said Wenger. ‘The only thing which we can master is to be perfect. Chelsea have a difficult programme and so do we. ‘We want to keep the momentum — win, win, win and win again. We know the top four is in our hands now. The title is not in our hands. We are looking up, but we are looking at our next game because that is all we can control. What we can master mathematically is the top four. Let’s focus on what we can master — our own performance.’ Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers praised Raheem Sterling, despite Liverpool's heavy defeat. Liverpool won their penalty after Sterling (top) was fouled by Bellerin (bottom) in the second half. But Wenger insisted that the performance against Liverpool demonstrated that had they not be hampered by injuries and the late return of World Cup winners Ozil and Per Mertesacker, then they would have been closer to Chelsea in the table. ‘We have moved forward,’ he said. ‘We missed important players at the start of the season when we dropped too many points. When you look at the points we’ve made since everyone is back, I believe that shows you we have the quality to fight at the top.’ Mesut Ozil scored a glorious second for Arsenal with a sumptuous free-kick on 40 minutes. Meanwhile, it has emerged that Liverpool must give Raheem Sterling’s first club, QPR, up to £15 million of the profits if they sell the 20-year-old. The winger, who has controversially put contract talks on hold at Anfield, has admitted that he has been flattered to be linked with Arsenal. Liverpool agreed a 25 percent sell-on clause with QPR when they signed Sterling in 2010 as a 15-year-old for £500,000. It means QPR would be entitled to £12.375m if Sterling is sold for £50m and is seen as an important reason why Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is keen to keep the talented winger. Alexis Sanchez celebrates after netting the Gunners third on the stroke of half-time at the Emirates. Olivier Giroud (right) added a late fourth with a brilliant strike to complete the scoreline for the Gunners.

Arsenal thrash Liverpool 4-1 in dominant display to go second. Gunners are still four points behind Chelsea, who have a game in hand. Arsene Wenger says his side looking up, but remain focused on each game. Brendan Rodgers praises 'outstanding' Raheem Sterling despite defeat.

A Wyoming man who stole a train from a coal mine and crashed it because he was upset over a phone call with his boss has been sentenced to serve probation and pay restitution. Derek Skyler Brux, 22, pleaded guilty in January for unhitching a pair of locomotives and going on a high-speed run 13 miles down one of the busiest lines of track in the country. Brux then crashed into an inactive Union Pacific train at 10mph before backing up and then hitting it again. Derek Skyler Brux, 22, was sentenced to five years probation for taking a train from a coal mine and crashing it into another train last fall. He must also pay $63,000 in restitution to Rail Link, his employer. He was preparing to hit the train a third time when a Rail Link employee was able to get on the engine train and press the fuel cut-off switch, according to K2 Radio. Brux was working at his job at the North Antelope Rochelle Mine, where he had been employed as a utility coal operator for three years, when he received the phone call that upset him on October 9. The details of what exactly his supervisor said were not included in available court documents. During the sentencing on Friday, U.S. District Judge Scott Skavdahl told Brux he needed to deal with his anger and mental health issues. Brux's public defender David Weiss previous told the court his client had struggled with bipolar disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in the past. But Brux was able to avoid prison time and instead must serve five years of probation. He also must pay over $63,000 in restitution to Rail Link. Brux pleaded guilty to unhitching two locomotives (pictured) and going on a high-speed run 13 miles down one of the busiest lines of track in the country.

Derek Skyler Brux, 22, unhitched a pair of locomotives and took them on a high-speed run 13 miles down one of the busiest tracks in the country. He then crashed into an inactive train at 10mph before backing up and doing it again before he was stopped by a Rail Link employee. Brux was a utility coal operator at the North Antelope Rochelle Mine. He must also pay $63,000 in restitution to Rail Link.

A young English fan who wrote a letter to Richie Benaud asking for tips on spin bowling almost 20 years ago has shared the Australian cricket great's response in the wake of his death. Jonathon Stevenson was just 16 years old when he asked for Benaud's advice on left-handed leg spin and he shared the lengthy response on Twitter on Friday as a tribute to the 'great man'. 'Wrote to Richie Benaud when I was 16 about bowling leggies. His detailed reply says everything about the great man,' Mr Stevenson, who is now a director at LiveWire Sport, tweeted. Scroll down for video. A letter from Richie Benaud to an English fan, Jonathon Stevenson, almost 20 years ago emerged on Friday in the wake of the cricket legend's death. Accompanying the letter from Benaud, dated September 27, 1996, was a full sheet of notes about spin bowling for left-hand bowlers. 'Your letter was timely because it was the first from a left-hander and it reminded me that there is a difference in coaching and not just in the fact that one youngster might bowl with the right hand and another with the left,' Benaud wrote. 'The ball, although coming out of the hand in the same manner and going in the same direction towards the batsmen, in fact spins differently for the two types of bowlers.' Jonathon Stevenson, who now works at LiveWire Sport, was just 16 years old when he asked for Benaud's advice on left-handed leg spin and he shared the lengthy response on Twitter as a tribute to the 'great man' Accompanying the letter from Benaud, dated September 27, 1996, was a full sheet of notes about spin bowling for left-hand bowlers. Benaud enjoyed a remarkable Test career as a wily leg-spin bowler and middle-order batsman which ended with his retirement in 1964. He was the first player to score 2,000 Test runs and take 200 Test wickets. 'I hope you enjoy your cricket and your bowling,' Benaud said. 'Yes, the left-arm over-the-wrist bowler who spins the ball into the right-hander from outside the off-stump is said to have bowled a Chinaman. The same bowler who spins one away from the right-hander has bowled a wrong'un.' After retiring, Benaud became a commentary icon initially with the BBC in England and later in his native Australia. The typed letter, dated September 27, 1996, was personally signed by Benaud. It included tips on different deliveries and gave pointers as to how they should be delivered. In his letter to a young Mr Stevenson, he listed a full page of various different deliveries the teenager should try and gave pointers as to how they should be delivered. 'Don't even think about learning the 'flipper' before you have mastered the leg-break, topspinner and wrong'un,' he finished with. The typed letter was personally signed by Benaud. After retiring, Benaud became a commentary icon initially with the BBC in England and later in his native Australia. He was the mainstay in Australian cricket television commentary until the past two summers - a car accident in 2013 sidelined him before he announced in November last year that he was fighting skin cancer. The Australian cricketer and commentator passed away in his sleep on Thursday night in Sydney after battling skin cancer. He was the mainstay in Australian cricket television commentary until the past two summers. In his letter to a young Mr Stevenson, he listed a full page of various different deliveries the teenager should try and gave pointers as to how they should be delivered.

Jonathon Stevenson wrote a letter to Richie Benaud back in 1996. The then-16-year-old asked for his advice on left-handed spin bowling. Stevenson, who now works at LiveWire Sport, tweeted the letter on Friday. Cricket legend died in his sleep on Thursday night in a Sydney hospice. Letter included sheet of notes about spin bowling for left-hand bowlers.

The chant was loud and it was pronounced. ‘Bees up, Fulham down’ rang out of the not-so neutral end at Craven Cottage on a day for Brentford’s 6,000 travelling fans to savour. A day they again stamped their serious play-off credentials down on the Championship, humiliating their once superior neighbours. As Stuart Dallas thundered in his second of the afternoon, boos descended down on Kit Symons, who slunk back into his dugout. But this wasn’t about Fulham and their mounting deficiencies. There were hairy moments for Mark Warburton’s side - particularly after Ross McCormack’s 67th minute penalty halved the deficit - but they continue to chip away at those above them with a fearless way of playing the game, excitement in abundance. Brentford celebrate taking the lead against Fulham at Craven Cottage thanks to Stuart Dallas (second left) Dallas runs away to celebrate his second goal of the game just before the hour mark at Craven Cottage. Fulham (4-4-2): Bettinelli 6; Grimmer 5 (Hoogland 46, 5), Bodurov 5, Turner 5, Husband 6; Fofana 5, Guthrie 5, Tunnicliffe 5; Kacaniklic 6 (Kavanagh 78), Woodrow 5 (Smith 62, 6.5), McCormack 5.5. Subs not used: Kiraly, Stafylidis, Rodallega, Burn. Goals: McCormack (pen) 67. Brentford (4-2-3-1): Button 6; Odubajo 6.5, Dean 6.5, Tarkowski 6, Bidwell 7; Diagouraga 6.5, Douglas; Jota 7, Pritchard 8 (Judge 60, 7), Dallas 8.5 (Smith 82); Gray 6 (Long 73, 6) Subs not used: Craig, McCormack, Bonham, Toral. Goals: Dallas 24, 58, Judge 90, Jota 90. Booked: Odubajo, Judge. Referee: Simon Hooper (Wiltshire). Attendance 23,271. Here was a first league double over Fulham in 23 years and still the potential for a play-off campaign, although the manager might be looking for more. ‘If a team puts a run together they’ll go clear with 90-odd points,’ he reasoned. ‘If they do that, with the nature of the fixtures, teams will drop points. ‘The average for the play-offs has been 72 for the last five years. I think you’ll need 75 minimum. If that’s the case we need two more wins.’ Every single resident of the tiny area of west London would have snatched and bitten fingers off for that if offered in August. The celebrations after Alan Judge’s stunning late free-kick were almost muted, such was the shock at what they’d just seen, and delirium as Jota smashed in a fourth. The guard has been changed around these parts and, when Symons looks back on the video today, he’ll have serious misgivings as to how the little upstarts five miles down the road were allowed to humble Fulham in their own back yard. ‘People will look at the scoreline and think it’s a hammering but it isn’t,’ he said. Sadly, Symons was wrong. What he could not legislate for was the oceans gifted to Alex Pritchard in the build-up to Dallas’ opener. The excellent Pritchard, on loan from Tottenham, is a midfielder with the brightest of futures, someone adept at orchestrating the Bees. So when he picked up possession inside his own half, looked up and just saw vacant grass ahead of him, the alarm bells should have been ringing in the hosts’ defence. But they did not. Pritchard went on for 30 yards, recycled possession just outside the home box and - later in the move - Dallas manouvered enough space for himself to put his laces through a daisy-cutter across Marcus Bettinelli into the goalkeeper’s bottom left-hand post. The first phase of that attack gives an indication why the Cottagers have struggled so badly this term and still aren’t safe from relegation. That, and a failure to take their chances when on top. Cauley Woodrow saw two presentable opportunities go begging before Seko Fofana - all alone at the back post - could only skew an effort wide with goal gaping. Alexander Kacaniklic earlier jinked away from two defenders but saw a shot smartly saved by David Button. McCormack, the multi-million pound signing from Leeds last summer, became increasingly on the periphery; starting as one of two strikers, the Scot felt the need to constantly drop off into midfield, such was Fulham’s lack of creativity. All that meant was Woodrow had to fend for himself against the two aggressive central defenders Harlee Dean and James Tarkowski. Ross McCormack scored from the penalty spot with 23 minutes remaining to drag Fulham back into the game. In short, Fulham need a plan for next season - and quickly. Even though it looks as if they will remain in the division, their supporters will not accept another campaign of stagnation. Compare that to buoyant Brentford, who are on a crest of a wave and unsure where the next six weeks will take them for all the right reasons. They grew into this, comfortable in retaining the ball after half-time and looked every bit the play-off side. Dallas’ second of the afternoon was something to behold, a wondrous strike in the same direction as his first but into the roof of Bettinelli’s net from 30 yards out. Up went the inflatables, over went the arms in hugging celebration. Brentford’s supporters can’t quite believe what they are witnessing. To say their brand of football does not deserve these accolades would be to decry Warburton’s hard work over the course of 18 months. It is just a shame he will not see that through beyond May. Fulham's Ryan Tunnicliffe is tackled by Brentford's James Tarkowski and Jake Bidwell. Brentford goalkeeper David Button saves shot from Alexander Kacaniklic of Fulham. It ought to have been three when Andre Gray blazed over from six yards but, just as the visitors looked to be cruising to the points, referee Simon Hooper gifted Fulham a way back into the game. Toumani Diagouraga was harshly adjudged to have hauled down debutant James Husband, with McCormack doing the rest from 12 yards. Lanky Matt Smith was a menace when introduced, almost catching Button out with a cheeky lob as Fulham pressed hard for an equaliser. Tarkowski needed to stretch every inch of his giant frame to keep out Kacaniklic too. They’ll need a bit more of that if this adventure is to finish at Wembley, although the quality of Judge’s late free-kick might just be even more important. Was this Warburton’s best individual result as a manager? ‘No, and I don’t mean that in a derogatory way,’ he said. ‘It’s a big local derby and the atmosphere was electric. Brentford's Moses Odubajo challenges Fulham midfielder Danny Guthrie for the ball. ‘We’ve had momentum from day one, not in an arrogant way but we have. It’s self belief. The players deserve to be where they are.’ They weren’t finished there, Jota hammering home in stoppage-time to cap off a stunning move. The key for Warburton is Brentford possess both class and guts in spades. Nottingham Forest better watch out on Monday.

Stuart Dallas scored either side of half-time for Brentford. The 23-year-old opened the scoring in the 24th minute before adding a second just before the hour mark at Craven Cottage. Ross McCormack scored a penalty to pull a goal back for Fulham. Alan Judge came off bench to score Brentford's third in injury time. Jota added a fourth for the visitors late in the game.

Alan Stubbs says he feared there would have been crowd trouble if he'd agreed to have his Hibs team form a guard of honour for Hearts in the Edinburgh derby. Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson and Jambos defender Alim Ozturk have both rounded on their city rivals for refusing a public display of acknowledgement for the Championship title winners at Easter Road. Rangers lined up to applaud Hearts on to the Ibrox pitch when the teams played just over a week ago, and Queen of the South and Alloa did the same. But Stubbs, who admitted that the police hadn't been consulted, insisted that the threat of unrest – not a lack of respect – was responsible for the decision. Hibs boss Alan Stubbs feared unrest among fans if his side formed a guard of honour for city rivals Hearts. 'It's been turned into a lack of respect,' said the Hibs boss. 'Well, I rang Robbie the day after they won the league and congratulated them and said they had been the best team over the season and that it had been fully deserved. 'My players have come out in the press and said Hearts have been the best team. I think that's respect. 'The reason why we decided against it is because there are two sets of rivals fans, it's a derby, there's going to be a lot of animosity. You are going to have one set of fans that will be jovial because they've won the league, you'll have one that are not going to be happy about that. 'The most important thing is the safety of the fans and that's the main reason we've done it. We don't want to start the game on a bad foot, that's the reason we've done it. Not a lack of respect. It's a respect for fans. It's a decision we spoke about and we feel as if it's the right decision for both sets of fans. 'We can't let this get out of control for the reasons we've done it. We've seen silly things happen over the years and we don't want to get into that state because of a guard of honour. 'If I won the league and we were at Tynecastle, I wouldn't expect a guard of honour there. We don't turn around and say because one team has done it every other team has to. I wouldn't expect it. 'Because you know it only takes on person. Before you know it, you've got a situation on your hands that could have been prevented. We want the derby to be spoken about for the right reasons, not the wrong reasons – and it only takes one idiot.' Agreeing that it would be unthinkable for either Old Firm team to offer their oldest rivals a guard of honour in a similar situation, Stubbs said: 'So why's it any different here? 'It's a derby and it means a lot to both sets of fans.' Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson feels that it is disrespectful not to acknowledge his team's achievements. Hearts fans favourite Ozturk inferred that the decision not to have a guard of honour showed a lack of respect by Hibs, while boss Neilson claimed it could backfire on them on the pitch. 'It is up to them if they want to do it,' said Ozturk. 'But other teams have shown respect to us - and if Hibs don't want to do it, that says a lot about them. 'Teams like Rangers showed us a little bit of respect for a fantastic season and it's a good feeling because you have worked really hard all season to win the league like this. 'That kind of respect you get is really nice but they [Hibs] are not going to do it, so that is it. Is that going to motivate me? Yes. I have a lot of respect for the other teams. This gives us extra motivation to show them why we' re champions. If you're asking me, I would have no problem with doing that for Hibs.' Neilson added: 'That's Hibs' prerogative. I think it will actually take some of the focus off our players, instead of coming out to a guard of honour and not concentrating on the game. 'It can also give the opposition team a bit of spirit and a bit of fight to say: 'We've given you a guard of honour, now we are going to turn you over!' That can happen. 'I've been in that situation where you are standing there clapping, and your first thought is to go out there and show them. Hopefully it will work in our favour that they don't do it on Sunday.' Hearts fans favourite Alim Ozturk (right) shares his boss' view that Hibernian should pay tribute to them.

Hibernian will not form a guard of honour for Scottish Championship winners Hearts during the Edinburgh derby. Boss Alan Stubbs believes it would cause unrest among the fans. Hearts head coach and defender Aim Ozturk feel that Stubbs' decision shows a lack of respect.

Two-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up about the meaning behind his tattoos during an interview with lifestyle magazine Men's Health. The Mercedes racer, who leads the drivers' championship after two races of the 2015 season after finishing first and second, features on the front cover of the May edition of the popular health publication. In an interview in the latest issue of the magazine, released on Thursday April 2 the 30-year-old discusses the significance of his personal body art. Lewis Hamilton poses for the latest edition of Men's Health magazine released on Thursday April 2. Hamilton looks to the skies as he shows off some of his tattoos as he explains the meaning behind them. Hamilton's tattoos and what they mean. The two-time Formula One champion features on the front cover of the new issue. 'I love my ink,' Hamilton explains. 'They all have a meaning. I'm very strong in my faith, so I wanted to have some religious images. I've got Pieta, a Michelangelo sculpture of Mary holding Jesus after he came off the cross, on my shoulder. 'A sacred heart on my arm. Musical notes, because I love music. The compass on my chest is there because church is my compass. 'Family is everything for me, so I have "family" written on the top, across my shoulders. "Faith", obviously. 'And I have "powerful beyond measure" written on my chest – it's a short bit I took out of a quote from the writer Marianne Williamson. On my back I have the cross and angel wings: rise above it, no matter what life throws at you.' Hamilton believes the physical demands of racing are often under-estimated by fans but he describes the physical demands on his body and the amount of training required. 'Well, I'm an athlete, but people tend not to see that with F1 drivers. I train to quite an intense level because Formula 1 is so physical – the G-forces, the demands on your body. Your heart rate is 150, 160 through the whole race. The Mercedes driver poses during the photoshoot for the May's issue of Men's Health. During the interview Hamilton discusses his body art and the physical demands of F1. Hamilton finished second to Sebastian Vettel at the Malaysian Grand Prix last Sunday. 'On qualifying lap your heart rate can be up to 180, 190 under tough conditions. Every year you've got to be as light as you can. 'There's a certain weight limit, depending on how heavy the car can be. Last year I had to lose six kilos, I went from 73kg to 67kg. It was hardcore; I didn't have much to lose as it was. So I train a lot.' The full interview appears in the May 2015 issue of Men's Health, on sale 2nd April. Also available in digital edition on Apple Newsstand.

Lewis Hamilton features on front cover of the May issue of Men's Health. Formula One champion opens up about the meaning behind his tattoos. Hamilton discusses faith and the physical demands of being an F1 driver. Hamilton: Ferrari? Don't be silly... I am staying with Mercedes. CLICK HERE for all the latest news from the world of Formula One.

Nedum Onuoha is wanted by Hull City. The QPR centre-back is one of several players poised to leave should the Loftus Road club go down as they consider streamlining their squad. The 28-year-old has 15 months left on contract and has played regularly under Chris Ramsey. Onuoha was in the starting eleven for the Saturday's crucial 4-1 win over relegation rivals West Bromwich Albion at the Hawthorns. Nedum Onuoha is being targeted by Hull City but is also interesting Everton and West Ham United. Stoke manager Mark Hughes who signed him for QPR is also interested as are Everton and West Ham. QPR have held talks over a move for Catania defender Nicolas Spolli. The 32-year-old has been on loan at Roma. Hull, meanwhile, are also showing interest in West Bromwich Albion striker Victor Anichebe who is likely to be sold this summer. Victor Anichebe (centre) is also being watched by Hull City and could move to the KC Stadium in the summer.

Hull City are interested in signing Queens Park Rangers' Nedum Onuoha. Everton and West Ham United are also keen on the versatile defender. QPR are in talks with Catania over a deal to sign defender Nicolas Spolli. Hull also have their eye on West Brom attacker Victor Anichebe.

Peter Lawwell recently admitted to telling Ronny Deila that it was a matter of getting over the ‘Le Guen hump’ but Celtic’s chief executive might well have cited a couple of names that had met their grim fates closer to home. One thing is for sure: Deila did not need to be an ardent student of the history of Scottish football to appreciate the gravitas of the situation he had become immersed in earlier this season. By late autumn, his side had twice exited Europe while Hamilton Accies had left Celtic Park triumphant. A search party was hardly required to identify his doubters. Celtic manager Ronny Deila admitted that the first six months in charge were mentally tough. Publicly, Deila plastered on the brave face and talked of looking behind the results for progress. Privately, the misgivings about his long-term suitability for the post were beginning to gnaw at him. ‘We played Dundee away (1-1) and we couldn’t play worse than we did,’ Deila recalled. ‘It was unbelievably bad. You know what the players want but you just haven’t got the message across. ‘People are insecure and that’s a hard time for the coach and the players.’ Even for a manager who had been steeped in the nuances of Scottish football, such a period would have been troubling enough. Deila, a Norwegian who had cut his teeth at tiny Stromsgodset, began to look like a man caught in entirely the wrong movie. ‘I have to admit the first six months were tough mentally because you have to really learn a lot of new things and get settled,’ he went on. ‘One thing is the language, the culture is another and then you have to know new opponents, your own team, understand what Celtic is all about and Scottish football. ‘There are so many things to take in and it’s so easy to push too hard and then you don’t get any time for reflection and you just get tired and then you can meet hard games and hard periods. You have nothing to push against.’ The Norwegian was unsure whether he was cut out to be the boss of the Bhoys. Upon his unveiling last summer, Deila was asked if he felt ready to manage a club like Celtic. He could hardly have answered in anything other than the affirmative. However, faced with a dressing room full of strangers, a league and a country he knew little about and the small matter of Champions League qualifiers hurtling towards him, he quickly appreciated the scale of the task he faced. ‘I spoke English at once,’ he recalled. ‘I’d a one-hour speech to them (the players) about how I wanted things. I think that went quite well. ‘But I didn’t know anything about Scottish football. I didn’t know anything about the players. I’d had a full season with my old club and five days later I was ready for Celtic. ‘I didn’t know more than four names in the squad so it takes time to get to know them then bang, you’re in the Champions League and playing games all over Europe, so I was in a situation I had to manage. ‘The players really wanted it. No problem at all. But my way of playing is quite difficult, it’s a lot of things. It’s not straightforward, a lot of relations and rules that we have to get into the players. ‘That takes time to get into. It’s so important to understand if you go back to the big managers they had before, Neil (Lennon) and (Gordon) Strachan and Martin (O’Neill), they also struggled in the beginning. It wasn’t only me. Peter was saying that the whole time - relax, you’re not the first, we’ve been through this before. But it’s harder for a Norwegian guy coming in, who’s unknown, as opposed to someone coming in with a big name.’ He was not alone in those difficult days, however. Realising the need to have individuals familiar with the club’s DNA standing beside him, John Collins was suggested as an assistant. Stevie Woods, the goalkeeping coach under Lennon, was retained while John Kennedy, the former youth coach, was promoted. Collectively, they acted as Deila’s support network. ‘I had unbelievably good back up from Peter, John Collins, John Kennedy and Stevie Woods as well,’ Deila explained. But results have picked up and they lead the Premiership (Kris Commons pictured scoring at St Mirren) ‘I’m a very open person, I say it as it is and I do that with them as well. My staff has been very good and helped me a lot. We’re growing more together, I’ve learned from them, they’ve learned from me and hopefully we know where we want to go. That’s fun and that gives you energy. That’s why I love to be here.’ It’s the small things that are making his life a little easier. In the 10 months he has been in Scotland, language has become less of an issue. ‘The first three weeks, trying to listen to what people were saying for five hours... when I got home, I was totally gone,’ he admitted. ‘I was so tired because I was sitting there all the time thinking “what is he really saying?”. There were so many new things. ‘Broony is one of the hardest. He is so quick. Half the time I just try to laugh at the right moments! But I am getting to understand more. A blip against St Johnstone aside, Celtic have been imperious since the turn of the year. ‘Now I feel more comfortable with the vocabulary, I feel I can express myself better. Before it was always the same words I was using. But I’m looking forward to speaking like every Scot!’ Ahead of Wednesday's game with Partick Thistle, Deila, his players and the supporters are very much now on the same page. A blip against St Johnstone aside, Celtic have been imperious since the turn of the year. From privately wondering if he’d bitten off more than he could chew by coming to Celtic, Deila is now ravenous for more success. ‘It’s fun,’ he said. ‘I want to win more trophies. I feel good. I’ve managed now to enjoy the week better in the past when everything in management was new and stressful. ‘Mentally, I’m in a very good place which is why I’m saying I’m enjoying the moments right now and looking forward to the games. ‘We have built the foundation and now the fun part is starting - to build relationships into the team and get the systems even better and quicker.’

Celtic boss Ronny Deila was unsure he was cut out for the job. Deila struggled for results initially at Celtic Park. But the Bhoys now lead the Premiership and should win the title.

Manchester United climbed above rivals Manchester City on Saturday night into third place in the Premier League table after a 3-1 victory over Aston Villa. Ander Herrera opened the scoring before half time and Wayne Rooney made it two after the interval with a superb second before Christian Benteke pulled one back for Tim Sherwood's side. But midfielder Herrera added his second and United's third late on to secure the three points for Manchester United. Here, Sportsmail's Dominic King gives his player ratings from Old Trafford. Manchester United (4-3-3) David de Gea – One of the quietest afternoons he has had all season; perhaps that explained his aberration for Aston Villa’s goal – 6. Antonio Valencia – Industrious down the right flank, almost created a goal for Rooney with one surge; not tested defensively – 7.5. Manchester United pair Phil Jones (left) and Antonio Valencia (right) battle Christian Benteke for the ball. Phil Jones – With Villa offering no threat, the England international was able to engage cruise control. Had Benteke under-wraps – 7. Marcus Rojo – Elegant on the ball, passed it well and came close to opening the scoring with a 30-yard drive that fizzed over the bar – 7. Daley Blind – Always looks comfortable regardless of the position he plays; a professional job in a professional performance – 6.5. Ander Herrera – To think there was a time when he couldn’t get a game. Passing was excellent and his two goals were thoroughly deserved – 8.5. Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera celebrates opening the scoring against Aston Villa. Michael Carrick – Having a renaissance this season after disappearing under David Moyes; kept things simple and smooth – 7. Marouane Fellaini – He bullied Liverpool in his last performance but wasn’t so aggressive here; could have scored with a second half header – 6.5. Juan Mata – No repeat of his Anfield heroics. Flitted in and out of the game, some nice moments but times when he disappeared – 6.5. Juan Mata in action for Manchester United against Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Saturday. Ashley Young – Had the bit between his teeth against his old club; came close to a goal with a flashing drive in the second half – 7.5. Wayne Rooney – Captain led by example and scored a quite magnificent half-volley to give United an unassailable lead – 7. Wayne Rooney (centre) celebrates his goal with team-mates Radamel Falcao (left) and Herrera. SUBS. Di Maria (for Young) 70mins. Falcao (for Fellaini) 77mins. UNUSED. Valdes (GK), Rafael Di Silva, Di Maria, Falcao, Januzaj, McNair, Pereira. Aston Villa (4-4-2) Brad Guzan – Earned his keep with saves from Rojo, Blind, Rooney and Fellaini; couldn’t do anything about Herrera’s goal – 7. Alan Hutton – Substituted at half-time with an injury. Had previously found it hard work trying to contain Young – 5.5. Jores Okore – Powerless to stop Rooney scoring a magnificent second; not a great impact on the game – 5.5. Aston Villa defender Jores Okore (left) vies for the ball with Manchester United captain Rooney. Ciaran Clark – Fortunate to escape in the fourth minute when wrestling Rooney to the floor; could easily have been sent-off – 6. Matthew Lowton – Playing out of position on the left and it was heavy weather at times when Mata started running at him – 5.5. Charles N’Zogbia – Seemed his job was more centred on stopping United attacking rather than on going forward himself – 5.5. Carlos Sanchez – Lots of energy in the middle but offered nothing to get Villa going forward; difficult afternoon – 6. Fabian Delph – Had his work cut out trying to keep Herrera in check. Never had chance to get Villa moving forward – 6.5. Aston Villa midfielder Fabian Delph (left) battles for the ball with Ashley Young of Manchester United. Andreas Weimann – Didn’t make much of a contribution going forward and had little influence on the game; substituted late on – 6. Christian Benteke – Threw his side a late lifeline when benefitting from a rare De Gea lapse; it was the only chance he got – 6.5. Aston Villa striker Benteke (left) celebrates scoring against Manchester United. SUBS. Joe Cole (for Weimann 77mins) UNUSED. Given (GK), Baker, Vlaar, Bacuna, Cole, Gil, Grealish.

Ander Herrera impresses with two goals for Manchester United in victory. Wayne Rooney also finds the back of the net against Aston Villa in 3-1 win. Brad Guzan the best performer for Tim Sherwood's side at Old Trafford.

Sven Bender has issued a rallying call to his Borussia Dortmund team-mates, telling them that they need to improve in front of goal for their disappointing season to be forgotten. Jurgen Klopp's men have failed to score in four of their last five league games and will now find it difficult to earn a spot in the Champions League places. Dortmund face Hoffenheim in the DFB Pokal on Tuesday and Bender admits his side need to start finding the net as soon as possible. Sven Bender (right) says Borussia Dortmund need to start scoring more goals if they want to win games. Jurgen Klopp's men find themselves in a disappointing tenth and looking unlikely to qualify for Europe. He told Reviersport: 'You can only progress to the next round if you score goals. 'It's not prohibited for any of us to score a goal. A defender could also find the net after a set piece. 'Everything is allowed and we should all do something extra to try and score.' Dortmund have scored a disappointing 34 goals in 27 games in the Bundesliga and Gabon international Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leads the goal scoring charts with 18 in all competitions. Gabon international Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (left) is the clubs top scorer with 18 goals in all competitions.

Sven Bender says Borussia Dortmund need to start scoring more goals. Dortmund have been disappointing this season and are currently tenth. Jurgen Klopp's men have scored 34 goals in 27 games in the Bundesliga.

Gene Sarazen did it with the shot heard round the world. Ben Hogan did it with his one and only appearance at the Open Championship. Tiger Woods achieved it at the Home of Golf. When it comes to the career Grand Slam the stars align it seems, and it is completed with wondrous deeds on fitting stages. And now Rory McIlroy has the chance to join the exalted company of just five men at Augusta National, of all places. As Woods put it: 'Where better could you ask for than to complete it here?' Rory McIlroy tees off on the first during his practice round ahead of the 2015 Masters on Thursday. McIlroy is targeting his third major title and the completion of his career Grand Slam at Augusta. McIlroy (left) chats with Tiger Woods, who is ranked 111th in the world at present, at the course on Wednesday. And so, 155 years after the first major championship, another season opens with a potentially epochal event. A campaign that will take us to uncharted territory near Seattle for the United States Open and St Andrews for The Open; to the whispering wilds of Wisconsin for the PGA. But it is here, where more majors have been held than any other venue, where we begin with the most exciting storylines of all. This 79th Masters was set up beautifully as it was, with McIlroy's bid to win a third straight major, but Tiger's return has elevated it to another plane. Love him or not, there's no denying the frisson of added excitement he brings. Noticeably thinner and brimming with health, how good to see him walking around with a smile on his face as well and signing autographs, clearly thrilled to be showing his kids the place where he has left an indelible mark. Is this Scrooge-like conversion a sign he doesn't think he can win any more, or is he just a man whose heart has grown fonder through absence? Whatever the answer, it will make for compelling viewing over the next few days as the man who won 11 of his 14 majors ranked No 1 in the world tries to win one ranked 111th. And here's a nice little omen to send him on his way: Darren Clarke was ranked 111th when he won The Open Championship at Royal St George's in 2011. World No 1 McIlroy signs autographs for a host of young fans following his practice round on Wednesday. In the press room on Tuesday it was as if Rory and Tiger had switched personalities, with the former the subdued, somewhat reluctant one. To be fair to McIlroy, he's been answering the same questions for eight long months. He's talked out about the Grand Slam. Now he gets the chance to enter the blessed sanctuary that inside the ropes provides and finally seize his opportunity to set a new benchmark for European golf rather than talk about it. For two of his four major championship victories, McIlroy got a huge helping hand from Mother Nature, as great dollops of rain rendered Congressional for the 2011 US Open and Valhalla for last year's USPGA soft and defenceless — the sort of dart-throwing contest which is right up McIlroy's alley. This Masters might get interrupted as well by an afternoon thunderstorm or two but it is also expected to get under way on Thursday with near record temperatures for this time of year. Add that to Augusta National's sub-air system under the greens and there will be no darts thrown here. As it should be. If you're going to join legends, you should be doing it the hard way. A flock of fans capture a Woods shot on their smartphones as the American star went through his paces. McIlroy might be the bookies' favourite for good reason but his Augusta record offers up a litany of damning statistics he must rectify before he can be considered for a green jacket. Can you believe that as good a driver as the Northern Irishman is, he has hit the par five 13th fairway just four times in 22 attempts in competition? Or that he has had no birdies in 44 tries on the holes that start the front and back nines. This week we will truly get the chance to gauge his development as a golfer. Alongside him for the first two days will be Phil Mickelson, another player who had all the attributes to win Augusta at 25 but had to wait until the age of 33 to win his first Masters. It might be that McIlroy has to wait a while longer, too. There are not only questions about his own record at Augusta that the world No 1 must answer. There's the formidable form of his peers. The next six players in the rankings — Henrik Stenson, Bubba Watson, Jordan Spieth, Jason Day, Adam Scott and Dustin Johnson — have all either won a tournament in the past two months or have a green jacket already. It is inconceivable at least one won't hit form. Phil Mickelson will play alongside McIlroy for the first two days of the tournament in Augusta. The list of potential winners stretches longer. Indeed, there's not a great golf-playing territory in the world that won't be watching with legitimate hopes of seeing one of its own triumph. Nowhere will that anticipation be greater than here. A win for McIlroy and papers will be filled with where it ranks in the annals of the great feats achieved by UK sportsmen. There's no point discussing what might be the ending when the drama has not even begun. But it's perfectly acceptable to keep fingers crossed and dare to wonder whether, over the next four days, we're going to be witnesses to a singular piece of UK sporting history.

The 79th Masters kicks off in Augusta on Thursday. Rory McIlroy is bidding to land a third straight major title. Tiger Woods arrives to the competition ranked 111th in the world.

It is just 12 weeks since bold claims were emanating from an ultra-confident Dundee United dressing room that this season could yield an unprecedented domestic Treble. ‘I believe we can win all three trophies,’ trumpeted goalkeeper Radoslaw Cierzniak. ‘People might laugh at me but maybe in May we will have won the league and cups and I will be laughing.’ On Wednesday night against Dundee at Dens Park, however, those carefree early January days seemed so long ago as Cierzniak’s grip of the ball for Greg Stewart’s opening goal proved as tight as his grasp on footballing reality. Dundee United manager Jackie McNamara is under pressure following his side's recent slump. Dundee United failed to get their hands on the Scottish League Cup as they fell to a 2-0 defeat by Celtic. Scottish Premiership outfit Dundee United have failed to win any of their last 10 games. As United slumped to a first derby defeat in 11 years, the loss at Dens Park saw Jackie McNamara’s team make it 10 matches without a win. It’s not yet May but nobody is laughing at Tannadice as the club gets to grips with an implosion of cataclysmic proportions both on and off the park. It does seem a touch bizarre that all is not well at a club that has reached back-to-back domestic cup finals for the first time in 29 years; qualified for European competition in three of the last four years; finished in the Premiership top six in every one of the last seven years and won the Scottish Cup in 2010. Yet as United have dropped like a stone from early-season table-toppers to potentially even missing out on Europe, the fallout has come amid an increasingly acrid war of words surrounding revelations about McNamara’s entitlement to a cut from outgoing player sales. Those close to Tannadice speak of a series of damaging schisms developing on all sides between fans, board and manager; cumulatively casting increased uncertainty over McNamara’s future. Ahead of the annual general meeting of influential supporters’ group ArabTRUST, one leading fan told Sportsmail of ‘overwhelming unhappiness’ with McNamara’s bonus, while his recruitment and tactical nous are also being questioned. There is, he added, a growing belief among fans that the manager’s position is ‘untenable’. But this has been a slow-burning civil war. The seeds of the crisis that appear to have taken place at almost every level of the club were first sown at the end of the winter transfer window when chairman Stephen Thompson took the unpopular decision to sell star players Stuart Armstrong and Gary Mackay-Steven to Celtic. As furious fans pointed out, hadn’t Thomson used the eve of last May’s Scottish Cup Final defeat by St Johnstone to declare Tannadice finances to be their finest since 1986 and vow there would be no player exodus, as occurred after the Scottish Cup win in 2010 under Peter Houston? Dundee United sold Stuart Armstrong (left) to Celtic during the January transfer window. Gary Mackay-Steven also sealed a winter move to Celtic on transfer deadline day. The Tannadice supremo even went as far as name-checking Armstrong along with Ryan Gauld and Andrew Robertson as players he would like to keep for ‘at least another year’ to help ‘compete’ with Celtic. Gauld and Robertson were quickly sold for £3million each last summer, although the fees for both made the sales palatable. Yet parting with Armstrong and Mackay-Steven just 48 hours after reaching a League Cup Final against a Celtic side Thompson had vowed to ‘compete’ with proved particularly painful for the rank and file. ‘I thought it was a strange decision, I must admit,’ said former United defender and BBC analyst Mark Wilson recently. ‘I can understand letting Mackay-Steven go because he had signed a pre-contract with Celtic but Armstrong is a different case. ‘United were in touching distance of Celtic and if you are serious about challenging, then you can sell him in June. ‘I read McNamara saying he wanted to keep both players but that they needed to balance the books. But they sold Gauld and Robertson for substantial fees in the summer and I read the chairman talking about how great the club’s finances are. ‘It was just a bit odd. Especially selling to Celtic, a rival, rather than an English team.’ At first, United closed ranks to slap down their detractors, reacting with an almost weary derision to anyone questioning the wisdom of selling key players at such a crucial part of the season. Dundee United striker Ryan Dow has scored just two league goals during the course of the current season. Dundee United striker Nadir Ciftci celebrated a goal by blowing a kiss at opposition goalkeeper Scott Bain. After starting life post-Armstrong and Mackay-Steven with a comprehensive 3-0 Scottish Cup victory at Stranraer, the line spun was that the two players, while talented, did not constitute a two-man team. They were at pains to point out that as United stormed to the top of the Premiership at the start of the season, Armstrong was often injured while an off-form Mackay-Steven was regularly left on the bench. Indeed, it was argued that, together, the duo started just three of United’s first nine games of the campaign, of which McNamara’s side won seven, drew one and lost one. After that Stair Park victory, two-goal Ryan Dow was hailed as the man to step into Armstrong and Mackay-Steven’s goalscoring boots. Dow has not hit the net since. Worryingly, United then slumped to their first back-to-back defeats of the season and went on to lose the League Cup Final to Celtic. Bain refuses to react as the Turkish striker does his best to rile his rival goalkeeper at Den Park. Turkish forward Ciftci celebrates with a kiss but ends up blushing as his side lose derby match. Jake McPake wheels away in celebration as helps Dundee earn first derby win in over a decade. Over the course of four March meetings with Ronny Deila’s men, United were dispatched from the Scottish Cup and defeated in the league, too, as McNamara’s season started to disintegrate. As the heat rose on Thompson, the United chairman first admitted the sales were a wrong footballing decision but correct from a financial standpoint. Curiously, though, the spotlight would then eventually turn on McNamara as ArabTRUST and the Federation of Dundee United Supporters’ Clubs released a statement saying they were shocked 25 per cent of £6.3m worth of transfer fees for Gauld, Robertson, Armstrong and Mackay-Steven were paid in commission to unnamed parties. United continue to deny the figures in question but eventually made the bombshell confirmation that McNamara was indeed entitled to a cut of player transfers. Even if it was done with the best of intentions — to reduce the manager’s salary in straitened times while bumping his earnings up if successful in developing young talent to sell — the revelation was toxic in the eyes of many fans. Their new-found ire towards a manager who led them to two consecutive finals has been further roused by United losing five-in-a-row for the first time since May 2006. Amid this poor run, St Johnstone defender Frazer Wright recently claimed that if McNamara’s men fall behind, ‘it gets in their heads’ and they ‘argue amongst themselves’. Dundee Utd goalkeeper Radoslaw Cierzniak looks back at his goal after Mark Stewart opened the scoring. Stewart celebrates his derby goal with a fan as he runs over to the home faithful at Den Park. Defeat at Tannadice against hapless Hamilton — without a win in 12 games — is now rendered unthinkable, even if victory would clinch a top-six finish for city rivals Dundee. There are those within Dens Park who sense a real opportunity to become the first Dark Blues side to finish above United in the league since 2002-03. A loss, coupled with a win for on-form Dundee at St Johnstone, would see Paul Hartley’s men go above United in the table on Saturday. Few could have guessed that scenario when, in the first hours of 2015, United took Dundee apart in a record 6-2 derby win at Tannadice. Not least Paul Heffernan, who, as a Hibs player, was impressed by United in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Easter Road in the League Cup in October before McNamara’s side sneaked through on penalties. ‘I’m sure the fans would love us to finish above United — and it’s all to play for,’ said the Irish striker, who scored the third in Dundee’s 3-1 win at Dens on Wednesday night. ‘We’re only two points behind United now, so we’ve just got to keep going when the split comes. Dundee United's Chris Erskine goes down under a challenge from Stephen McGinn during the Dundee derby. Dundee's Paul Heffernan taps home his side's third goal of the game as they close in on derby victory. ‘I’m surprised that they have gone 10 games without a win. When I was still at Hibs earlier this season, we played them in the League Cup and they were a very good side. ‘It’s a long time not to win but they’ve still got very good players in the team. I’m sure they will come good again. ‘I’d actually like it if they came good against Hamilton on Saturday, though. That would be perfect because it would cement our place in the top-six. ‘So here’s hoping they can turn it around on Saturday because it would help us. It would be ironic, I know, if United clinched us a top-six place. ‘But we go to St Johnstone knowing we are definitely in the top six if we win there.’ While the tangerine half of Dundee mourns its fall from grace, the Dark Blues are in raptures after breaking a sequence of derbies without victory stretching back to November 2004. ‘Ending that run against United was a big motivating factor — and I felt that was the best I’ve seen us play,’ said Heffernan. ‘A lot of the players haven’t been here that long. But, for the sake of the fans who haven’t witnessed a win over United for such a long time, it was really important. We did it for them. I’m sure they will enjoy this one for a long time to come.’ After a long era in the shadow of their neighbours, Dundee are daring to dream. Amid a tangerine nightmare, however, for a United side in crisis, the Treble that once lay ahead has been replaced by trouble.

Jackie McNamara's Dundee United have lost their last five games. United's last defeat came against rivals Dundee on Wednesday. Goalkeeper Radoslaw Cierzniak tipped his side to win treble in January. Fans believe McNamara's position at the club is ‘untenable’

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has fanned the flames of Raheem Sterling's contract stand-off with Liverpool by insisting he would sell any player who wanted to leave his club. Sterling's commitment to Liverpool is in doubt after he gave a televised interview on Wednesday explaining why he has chosen to put talks over a new deal on hold. As Sportsmail revealed on Thursday, Chelsea are interested in the 20-year-old and have been asked to be kept updated on his future. Arsenal are also keen on the England international. Raheem Sterling, pictured in training on Thursday, has rejected a new £100,000-a-week deal with Liverpool. Jose Mourinho insists that he would sell any of his Chelsea players if they did not want to play for the club. Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is adamant that Sterling will not be sold in the summer transfer window. Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers will play Sterling at Arsenal in Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash despite the player admitting that he is 'flattered' by interest from the north London club. Rodgers insists Sterling is not for sale this summer at any price, despite his reluctance to sign an extension. But Mourinho said: 'I don't like players that don't want to play for me and my club. My opinion is every player has a price. 'It doesn't matter which player. If you ask me, for example, do I want Eden Hazard to leave Chelsea? No. If he wants to leave and doesn't want to work with me, doesn't want to play for Chelsea, does he have a price? I think he has. But I also understand the philosophy of managers and clubs who want to keep the players at any price. My philosophy is not better than that, it's just mine.' Mourinho and Chelsea are interested in Sterling and could make a move for him at the end of the season. Sterling will start against Arsenal despite admitting it was 'quite flattering' to be linked with the Gunners. Mourinho watches Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Filipe Luis and Nemanja Matic (L-R) in training at Cobham on Friday. Rodgers has resisted the temptation to leave out Sterling on Saturday after a turbulent three days following his revelation of the reasons for stalling over a new £100,000-a-week contract. Sterling's remarks about being flattered by Arsenal's interest have only added to suspicions that his representatives are trying to engineer a move to London. But Rodgers believes that Sterling will react 'very strongly' to the situation and has the right temperament to handle a game that Liverpool need to win to close a six-point gap on Arsenal in the race for a top-four finish. 'He will play,' said the Liverpool boss. 'If it was a different player I would maybe have something to think about. But with this kid, since he has come in, trained and worked with me, he has been phenomenal and I expect him to go there and perform at a high level. 'I think he is a strong character. He's a young boy, still learning, on and off the field, but I don't think there was anything derogatory to Liverpool. I know he loves the club and I expect him to perform at a high level.' Rodgers says he expects Sterling to 'perform at a high level' against Arsenal despite his contract wrangle. Sterling has attracted interest from clubs including Arsenal, Manchester City and Bayern Munich. Kolo Toure, pictured being challenged by Steven Gerrard, believes Sterling should remain at Anfield. Kolo Toure, meanwhile, has warned that leaving Anfield could see Sterling end up on the scrapheap at another club, in a similar way that occurred with Jack Rodwell and Scott Sinclair at Manchester City. The English pair, who used to play with Toure at City, played just nine Premier League games between them after moving to the Etihad. Toure told the Liverpool Echo: 'Both Rodwell and Sinclair went to a club where there is big competition and didn't play. 'If Raheem left Liverpool he would not be sure to start games. Make a mistake or don't score for two games and he will be on the bench. He needs to stay here. This is the best place for him.'

Raheem Sterling has rejected a new £100,000-a-week deal at Liverpool. Chelsea, Arsenal and Bayern Munich are interested in the 20-year-old. Jose Mourinho says he would sell any player who did not want to stay. Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that Sterling will start against Arsenal. Kolo Toure believes his team-mate should remain at Anfield.

Perhaps it was the excitement of the Grand National, but this horse fell at the first hurdle after wandering into thick mud. It was hardly Becher's Brook - one of Aintree's most notorious fences - but Cody somehow found himself stuck in the bog in Belvedere, south-east London. Crew members climbed into the watery ditch as they tried to ease the distressed animal to safety on Friday afternoon. Sticky situation: Animal rescue experts spent more than an hour rescuing Cody after he wandered into a bog. Cody was covered head to hoof in mud after being dragged to safety, but - despite being shaken by the ordeal - was otherwise unharmed. Borough Commander for Bexley Richard Welch said crews worked hard to save the horse. He added: 'One thing is certain that it won’t be running in the Grand National tomorrow.' Falling at the first hurdle: Cody got stuck in the mud after wandering into a bog in Belvedere south-east London. 'Cody has been taken back to the stables to be seen by a vet.' Fire crews were dispatched to save him from his ordeal shortly before 1.30pm and worked for an hour and a half before freeing him at 2.55pm.

Cody got stuck after wandering into ditch in Belvedere, south-east London. Animal rescue experts spent an hour and a half rescuing distressed horse. After being freed, the horse was seen by a vet and taken back to his stables.

Everton will look to extend Darron Gibson's contract this summer as he recovers from the latest injury setback of his career. Roberto Martinez confirmed on Thursday that the Republic of Ireland international will miss the final seven games of the season with metatarsal damage, but expects him to be ready for pre-season as he does not require surgery. Gibson has endured a wretched time over the last 18 months, not least when he ruptured cruciate ligaments, and his position at Goodison Park could be regarded as vulnerable, particularly as Everton will rekindle their long-standing interest in Tom Cleverley in the summer. Everton midfielder Darron Gibson will not play again this season after damaging his metatarsal. Everton manager Roberto Martinez expects Gibson to return to pre-season in the best possible shape. Cleverley, who has spent the season on loan at Aston Villa, will become a free agent in July when his Manchester United contract expires and, given they have worked together before at Wigan, he is a player Martinez will consider recruiting. But Martinez has moved to assure Gibson he has a place in his plans. The 27-year-old was signed by David Moyes in January 2012 and has 12 months remaining on his current deal but his manager is already looking at his situation. 'This injury has arrived at such a bad moment because he was back from another long-term injury but it's something we'll look at in the summer,' said Martinez. 'I've been very pleased with Darron. Coming back from that sort of injury you don't reach 100 per cent for a long time. Everton will look to extend Gibson's contract this summer as he is treated for his latest injury setback. Martinez has moved to assure Gibson he has a place in his plans despite holding an interest in Tom Cleverley. 'But when he's been on the pitch, he's performed really well. From the Leicester game, all his performances have been really influential. Though he's now injured, he's been able to show his worth and for me he is an important player that we want here for the future. 'We are going to see him. But I'm not too worried. It is a tricky injury because if you don't heal it properly, it could come back. We need to make sure he is 100 per cent. If he is fully fit for pre-season, that would be fantastic. We don't have another player like him in the squad. 'We are trying to support him. He can add that calm feeling, he has shown his worth and what he is capable of adding. But it is tough, I won't lie. It is devastating for him. We just have to look at the positive that he doesn't need surgery. At one point, it looked very likely.' Cleverley is a target of Martinez and with his Manchester United contract running out a move could happen. Cleverley played under Martinez at Wigan, on loan from United, and has been at Villa Park this season. Having won their last three matches against Newcastle, QPR and Southampton, Everton have put together their best sequence of results in the Barclays Premier League for more than 12 months to clamber away from a potential relegation scrap. There is no chance, however, of them qualifying for Europe next season but Martinez does not think their potential to make new signings in the summer has been effected. He feels the club's progress over the last four years means they are strong enough to withstand this disappointment. Everton have put together their best sequence of results in the Barclays Premier League in over a year. Martinez does not think their potential to make new signings has been effected by a lack of European football. 'Within football when you face an opposition losing or winning doesn't affect players,' said Martinez. 'It's how you lose and I think every player who's faced Everton this season will have come out with a real respect and a real appreciation of the way we play as a club. 'We don't rely on 10 months of results, we've got a bigger picture of what we're trying to achieve and what we've got in the squad, particularly in terms of the younger players who have been given incredible roles. So I think the perception of Everton has improved in the last 12 months. 'We know the positions that we need to strengthen in the summer. It's something we've worked really hard on since January in order to identify those targets but a lot of decisions will depend on how we perform in the last seven games. It's going to be a very important end of season for us.' Martinez says he has 'got a bigger picture' of Everton's progress and does not rely on 10 months of results.

Darron Gibson has been ruled out for the rest of the season with injury. Gibson has a metatarsal problem but will be back for pre-season. Roberto Martinez wants to extend his contract despite repeated injuries. Everton will likely rekindle interest in Tom Cleverley in the summer.

Tom Croft has received a huge lift at the start of his latest long journey back to fitness by securing a new deal at Leicester. The club future of the England and Lions flanker appeared to be in doubt last month when his cruel injury jinx struck again. Croft suffered a dislocated shoulder in the Tigers’ victory over Newcastle and, after surgery, he was left facing six months of rehabilitation. In 2012, the 29-year-old suffered a broken neck and he missed most of last season with a knee injury while this latest setback has almost certainly ruled him out of the World Cup. Tom Croft has signed a new deal with Leicester which keeps him with the Tigers despite his injury troubles. Despite Croft’s lack of action in recent years director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: ‘I have agreed a contract with him. Tom has had some poor luck injury-wise. We all know when Tom’s fit he is world-class. ‘He is still relatively young. He has been very loyal to the club over a long period and we have supported him hugely. It’s the right thing to do. I think he will come back and we will be talking about Tom Croft playing how Tom Croft can play.’

His cruel injury jinx struck again as the England and Lions flanker dislocated his shoulder against Newcastle. The injury will almost certainly rule him out of the World Cup. In 2012, the 29-year-old suffered a broken neck and he missed most of last season with a knee injury.

Real Madrid midfielder James Rodriguez is 'worth his weight in gold' after settling in seamlessly at the Bernabeu this season. That's the view of Spanish newspaper Marca, who focus on the impressive form of the Colombian star since his £60million move from Monaco last summer. According to the Madrid-based publication, Los Blancos have won 80 per cent of their games when Rodriguez is in the side compared to just 58 per cent when he's been missing. Marca (left) say that James Rodriguez is 'worth his weight in gold' as AS focus on Cristiano Ronaldo's appeal. The 23-year-old is also described as 'the jewel in Real Madrid's crown' and praised for his influence in the No 10 role after scoring 13 goals and laying on 12 more for his team-mates so far this season. But his biggest triumph - according to Marca - is how he has lived up to his enormous price-tag, becoming a firm fan favourite for Carlo Ancelotti's side. Elsewhere in Spain, AS focus on Real's appeal against Cristiano Ronaldo's yellow card for diving in Wednesday's 2-0 win against Rayo Vallecano. They say that La Liga's competition and appeals committee will meet on Friday to decide whether or not the Portuguese superstar will be allowed to face Eibar this weekend. Over to Italy, where La Gazzetta dello Sport lead on Roberto Mancini's plans for a summer revolution at Inter Milan. La Gazzetta dello Sport reveal Roberto Mancini's targets as Tuttosport have an interview with Alvaro Morata. The paper claim that the former Manchester City boss hopes to sign eight quality players from a list of 21 candidates. Among Mancini's list are Premier League stars Yaya Toure, Filipe Luis and Lucas Leiva, while Barcelona's Pedro and Palermo forward Paulo Dybala are also mentioned. Tuttosport have an exclusive interview with Juventus striker Alvaro Morata, who says he is not interested in a return to former club Real Madrid. The Spanish international also insists that his side must believe in themselves in the Champions League, even comparing Juve to last season's unfancied runners-up Atletico Madrid.

Spanish newspaper Marca have praised Real Madrid's James Rodriguez. The Colombian has impressed since joining from Monaco last summer. Roberto Mancini wants to sign eight 'quality' players for Inter Milan. Yaya Toure, Filipe Luis and Lucas Leiva among Mancini's targets. Juventus striker Alvaro Morata claims he is not interested in joining Real.

Liam Treadwell has been booked for the ride on Michael Scudamore-trained Monbeg Dude in Saturday’s Crabbie’s Grand National. Treadwell won the race on Venetia Williams-trained 100-1 shot Mon Mome in 2009. The ride on former Welsh National winner Monbeg Dude was available because his two regular jockeys, Tom Scudamore and Paul Carberry have already got rides. Liam Treadwell - pictured after winning the Grand National in 2009 - has been booked to ride Monbeg Dude. Treadwell rode Venetia Williams-trained 100-1 shot Mon Mome to victory at Aintree five years ago. Scudamore rides Soll for his boss David Pipe and Carberry, who rode Monbeg Dude to be seventh in last year’s National, is on Gordon Elliott’s Cause of Causes. Monbeg Dude has a high profile because he is owned by a trio of well-known rugby union players headed by former England captain Mike Tindall. His wife, Zara Phillips, the Queen’s granddaughter, has helped with schooling a gelding who once had jumping issues. Rugby Union star Mike Tindall co-owns Monbeg Dude - his wife Zara Phillips has helped with schooling.

Liam Treadwell booked to ride Monbeg Dude in Saturday's Grand National. He won on Venetia Williams-trained 100-1 shot Mon Mome in 2009. Monbeg Dude is co-owned by rugby union star Mike Tindall.

Jordan Henderson is not ready to give up on Liverpool's Champions League hopes despite an eight-point gap to Manchester United in fourth place. The 24-year-old scored a penalty at the Emirates on Saturday, but it was not enough as Liverpool fell to a 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Arsenal to leave their top-four hopes in tatters. That result followed a devastating 2-1 home defeat by Manchester United last time out and Brendan Rodgers' side have fallen from two points off Champions League qualification to eight behind. Jordan Henderson urged Liverpool not to give up on their hopes of finishing in the top four. Henderson is targeting seven wins out of seven in the league and an immediate response at Blackburn. But Henderson urged his team not to give up on the top-four race with seven games to play, and to bounce back immediately on Wednesday night when they take on Blackburn in an FA Cup quarter-final replay. He told Liverpool's official website: 'We knew it was going to be difficult [to finish in the top four], even before Saturday, but it makes it even more difficult. 'That doesn't mean we'll just give up. We've got seven games left now and we need to try to win every one. If we do that, then you never know. 'Blackburn is another big game for us straight away. We've got to recover well, learn from this one and move on and try to get a big win on Wednesday.'

Jordan Henderson says his team will not give up hope of top-four finish. Liverpool were beaten 4-1 at Arsenal in a massive blow to their hopes. Defeat left Liverpool eight points off fourth place with seven to play. Liverpool face Blackburn in FA Cup quarter-final replay on Wednesday.

Wallace, the Chelsea defender on-loan at Vitesse Arnhem, has been released without charge after being questioned by police on ‘suspicion of a sexual offence’. The 20-year-old, who has been loaned out to Fluminense and Inter Milan since he signed for Chelsea in January 2013, was with Vitesse’s squad for their trip to Excelsior and fined by the Dutch club. ‘Wallace won't be in the selection for the match against Excelsior,’ a statement from Vitesse read. Wallace is pictured in action for Chelsea during their pre-season tour of Indonesia back in July 2013. ‘The Brazilian defender was arrested last night in the centre of Arnhem on suspicion of an offence. ‘Based on the fact that he is to refrain from going out in the 48 hours before a match, Vitesse immediately decided Wallace will be out of the team and will receive a maximum fine. ‘Vitesse has no further announcements.’ While the Dutch club refused to comment on the nature of the offence which led to the arrest, a police spokesman is quoted by local media as saying it was 'sexual’. The 20-year-old right back is pictured playing for Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem in February of this year. ‘We still don't know what exactly happened,’ police spokesman Paul Koetsier told RTL. ‘That must be found out during the investigation. ‘We can't make it more concrete than a suspicion of a sexual offence. Maybe there will me more information later today.’ Wallace is on a season-long loan at Vitesse. The Dutch outfit enjoy a close relationship with the Blues and the club’s owner Alexander Chigrinsky is an associate of Roman Abramovich. Wallace, a Brazilian Under-20 international, made his debut for Jose Mourinho’s side during their summer tour of Asia in 2013 before his season on loan at Inter. He made only three appearances for the Serie A club before being sent to Vitesse. Wallace, who signed for Chelsea in January 2013, is on a season-long loan at Vitesse (right) Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Wallace, who signed for Chelsea in 2013, is on loan at Vitesse Arnhem. He has been pulled out of their squad for the trip to Excelsior on Saturday. The 20-year-old has also been handed the maximum fine by the Dutch side. Wallace, a Brazilian Under-20 international, made his debut for Jose Mourinho’s side during their summer tour of Asia in 2013. CLICK HERE for all the latest Chelsea news.

Jonathan Trott prepared for his first Test appearance since leaving the Ashes tour in turmoil 18 months ago with back-to-back failures in St Kitts. Trott, who looks sure to open with Alastair Cook in the first Test against West Indies in Antigua on Monday, fell for just two, top-edging an attempted pull against a St Kitts side bolstered by England bowlers Liam Plunkett and Mark Wood. It follows his third-ball duck at the hands of his England team-mate Jimmy Anderson but Trott at least made 72 on the first of what became four practice days instead of proper matches in St Kitts ahead of the main business next week. Jonathan Trott failed twice with the bat during England's warm-up for the first Test in Basseterre. Trott is dismissed by his England team-mate James Anderson in St Kitts. Trott’s only rival for the opener slot, Yorkshire’s Adam Lyth, was dropped twice before falling to a poor shot outside off-stump for 23 but Alastair Cook and Ian Bell looked in much more fluent form before retiring in this practice match. England gave what appeared to be a sneak preview of their side for the first Test as their low-key warm-up week meandered to a close. Their four days of cricket have been desperately short of competitive edge and they at least ensured each of their likely team saw some batting action. Trott looks set to open the batting with Alastair Cook in Antigua in the first Test next week. England completed four days of low-key, uncompetitive warm-up action in Basseterre on Thursday. Alastair Cook. Jonathan Trott. Gary Ballance. Ian Bell. Joe Root. Ben Stokes. Jos Buttler. Chris Jordan. Stuart Broad. James Tredwell. Jimmy Anderson. The decision to linger in the middle after two rain delays in order to allow Chris Jordan and James Tredwell to face some admittedly low-quality bowling, suggested those two would claim the disputed places in the team. Barring a raging turner in Antigua next week there will be only one spinning place and Tredwell, already a likelier pick than Yorkshire's Adil Rashid, was sent in ahead of his counterpart for a late hit. His dismissal gave Rashid a chance of his own but Tredwell was given priority and can now start preparing for a second Test cap. Jordan, meanwhile, was afforded a decent stint at the crease in the final session, when England pressed for an extra half-hour's play following rain delays. That suggests he has done enough to remain ahead of Mark Wood and Liam Plunkett, who both bowled for the hosts without doing anything compelling to push their case. Captain Cook made 22 runs in the morning session before retiring on Thursday. Ian Bell looked in fluent touch as he was unbeaten on 43 when he retired. England will leave St Kitts and head to Antigua for the first Test against the West Indies on Monday. Those decisions aside the second in a pair of two-day fixtures has been little more than a glorified training drill, with Plunkett, Mark Wood and Jonny Bairstow dropped in to strengthen the flimsy local side, while Gary Ballance, Trott and Root featured for both teams at various points. Bell looked in best form, making a fluent 43 before retiring, while captain Cook also opted to end his own innings having ground out 22 runs in the morning session.

Jonathan Trott out cheaply twice in Basseterre. The England batsman preparing for his first Test since Ashes turmoil. England's low-key warm-up week in St Kitts drew to a close. Ian Bell retired on 43 and Alastair Cook after making 22.

Alec Stewart has expressed his interest in becoming the new Director of England Cricket following the sacking on Wednesday of Managing Director Paul Downton. Stewart, who played in a record 133 Tests for England and is currently director of cricket at Surrey, has not yet been approached by the ECB. But he said: ‘When England come calling, you shouldn’t say no.’ The early bookies’ favourite for the post is Michael Vaughan, the former England captain who is close to the incoming ECB chairman Colin Graves, and has also made clear his desire to help English cricket out of its current state of chaos. Alec Stewart stands at the KIA Oval ahead of a Surrey team photo shoot on Thursday. Stewart lines up with Surrey players for the team photo at the KIA Oval. Test matches: 133. Highest score: 190. Runs: 8463. Centuries: 15. Half-centuries: 45. Batting average: 39.54. Stumpings: 14. First test: West Indies, Kingston, Feb 24, '90. Last test: South Africa, The Oval, Sep 4, '03. Stats via ESPNcricinfo. But Stewart, who also spoke highly of the early impression Kevin Pietersen has made on his return to the Surrey team, remains a respected figure in the game. And he is open to offers. Asked whether he’d be interested in the post – created by the ECB’s new chief executive Tom Harrison, who confirmed Downton’s demise Wednesday evening – Stewart said: ‘I can’t just say yes until I know what the role and the responsibility are. But, of course, if it was the right role, you’d be stupid not to look at it. ‘As a player I did just about anything that was asked of me. If they asked me to take on a role, and it’s the right role, of course I’d listen and have a big conversation – once the ECB have asked Surrey permission to speak to me, of course, because I’m under contract here. ‘I just want England to be the best side in the world. And if the ECB felt I was the right person to help take them to No 1, then of course I’d look at it. ‘I’ve got a big job here, and that’s what I’m concentrating on. But at the same time you’ve got to make yourself aware of other opportunities, and when England come calling, you shouldn’t say no. ‘If they want someone with experience of being a director of cricket, then I’d have thought I’d be very close to being at the top of that list.’ Stewart (centre front) poses in the Surrey team photo ahead of the start of the County Championship season. Stewart was a wicketkeeper-batsman for England. Here he looks on as Australia's Steve Waugh plays a shot towards England fielder Graham Thorpe in the fifth test of an Ashes clash at Edgbaston in 1993. Stewart is carried by team-mates Steve Harmison (left) and Andrew Flintoff, after playing his final Test match, at the Oval in September 2003 against South Africa. But Stewart made clear he’d be interested in the job only if there was a clear definition of his accountability. ‘If you do well, you get patted on the back, if you don’t do well, you get moved on. To me, it’s straightforward. But if there are too many bits and pieces in the jigsaw, people can hide. ‘I’m not one for hiding. It’s about making tough decisions, and living and dying by those decisions. And making sure the players play without fear.’ Stewart, who led England in 15 Tests and scored nearly 8,500 runs, was effusive in his praise of Pietersen, whose chances of a surprise England recall increased from highly unlikely to merely improbable following the sacking of Downton – who in turn had sacked Pietersen over a year ago. Kevin Pietersen will feature for Stewart's Surrey outfit in this year's county championships and the former wicket-keeper batsman believes the 34-year-old could still make a comeback at international level. ‘We’ve never had a problem with him,’ said Stewart. ‘I’m sure other dressing-rooms may not say the same, but we don’t have to handle him. ‘He fits in well. When he walked in, he went to his locker straightaway: it was like he’d never been away. We can only speak in glowing terms of him. And that’s how I judge people, is how I find them – not hearsay, or from other people. ‘England have said he’s not on their radar. But you should never say never. If he’s racking the runs up, and England are struggling, if the players aren’t getting runs or there’s an injury to a batsman, and he’s in top form – why wouldn’t you want to bring him back?’

Alec Stewart admits he would happily consider a role within ECB. England would need permission from Surrey before contacting Stewart. Ex wicketkeeper-batsman claims it would be silly not to listen to an offer.

Children who share iPads in class do much better in early literacy tests than those who don’t, researchers claim. The findings come after the general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers said he was dubious about using technology as a teaching aid in non-IT classes. However, research into the effects of the devices on literacy levels suggests the best outcome comes from youngsters sharing devices. Children who share iPads in class do much better in early literacy tests than those who don’t, researchers claim (stock image above) Courtney Blackwell, at Northwestern University in the US, found that, in tests, kindergarten children who shared iPads in classes over an academic year significantly outscored their peers who were in classes that had no iPads or in which each student had their own device. Shared iPad students scored around 30 points higher than students who used the device on their own and non-iPad users. She worked with 352 students at a Midwestern suburban school district during the research. Miss Blackwell said the findings suggest it’s the ‘collaborative learning around the technology that made the difference, not just the collaboration in and of itself’. Shared iPad students scored around 30 points higher in a test than students who used the device on their own and non-iPad users (stock image above) She added: 'Schools might reconsider how the tablets are used, especially in earlier grades, in order to make the technology most effective.' She is due to present her findings at the 65th Annual Conference of the International Communication Association in Puerto Rico.

Students who shared an iPad scored around 30 points higher on the test. Courtney Blackwell worked with 352 students in America for the research.

A female school worker has been arrested on suspicion of seducing at least two teenage boys as young as 14. Diane Blankenship, 45, is accused of having sex with a 14-year-old boy in the backseat of her vehicle while her friend drove them about town in December last year. In a later incident, the 'clerical worker' at Dayspring Academy allegedly had sex with a 17-year-old student at his house before school. Charged: Diane Blankenship, 45, is charged with having sex with a 14-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy. Detectives are investigating the possibility of other victims. According to WTSP, Blankenship was detained at her home in Tampa, Florida, on Friday night. She has been charged with unlawful sexual activity and lewd battery. Held at Land O' Lakes Detention Center, her bail is set at $100,000. A spokesman for Dayspring Academy told The Tampa Tribune that Blankenship has been placed on administrative leave. No Dayspring students were involved, the spokesman said. She has been placed on administrative leave from her clerical role at Dayspring Academy in Tampa, Florida.

Diane Blankenship, 45, was arrested at her home in Tampa on Friday. She is accused of having sex with a boy, 14, in her car. In another incident she 'had sex with a boy, 17, at his house before school' She is said to be a 'clerical worker' at Dayspring Academy.

A 73-year-old man is to appear in court today charged with the murder of his 95-year-old mother at her home. Police arrested David Powell after the pensioner's body was discovered at her home in Doncaster Lane, Penkhull, Stoke-on-Trent on Thursday night. Although the body has not yet been formally identified, she is understood to be his mother Celilia Powell. Police arrested David Powell after the pensioner's body was discovered at her home in Doncaster Lane (pictured), Penkhull, Stoke-on-Trent. According to the Independent, Mr Powell was arrested after detectives were called to his home on Thursday. Detective Inspector Andy Maxfield from Staffordshire Police said: 'At this stage of the investigation we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.' Police were called to the scene at around 8pm on Thursday. Mr Powell, of Longton Road, Barlaston, Staffordshire, is due to appear before magistrates at Newcastle-under-Lyme today. He said officers were due to have finished forensic examinations by late last night with a Home Office post-mortem taking place today. Mr Powell, of Longton Road, Barlaston, Staffordshire, is due to appear before magistrates at Newcastle-under-Lyme today. Family members affected by the death are being supported by a police family liaison officer. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Body of woman believed to be Celilia Powell was discovered at her home. Her son David Powell, 73, has been charged with the 95-year-old's murder. Police called to the scene in Stoke-on-Trent on Thursday at about 8pm.

Hollywood actor Keanu Reeves made no secret of his passion for Formula One when visited and sampled the atmosphere at the Red Bull headquarters in Milton Keynes. Reeves, who has starred in blockbusters such as the Matrix trilogy, has been pictured at Grand Prix in the past and is a self-confessed petrolhead. The 50-year-old grilled Red Bull's chief technical officer Adrian Newey - who has been a part of ten world championship wins in the past - and checked out pit stops during his time at the factory with Sky Sports F1. Keanu Reeves chats to Red Bull chief technical officer Adrian Newey at the headquarters in Milton Keynes. Petrolhead Reeves also checked out pitstops and more at the Red Bull factory with Sky Sports. And Reeves, who is also a director, producer, musician, and author, also said that his love for the sport comes partly from its similarity to the film business. He said: The whole thing is the most impressive thing. It reminds me of telling stories or making a film. All of the different parts -  costume, cinematographer, wardrobe, all of the fuel dynamics, the power plant, body design, construction. All of these kind of teams that go to people that go to an idea that goes to a passion going towards this one event is what's impressive. 'There's something great and human about it, everyone coming together for this thing. Despite Reeves' excitement at the factory, he conseded he was 'absolutely not' the key to catching Mercedes and Ferrari this season, while he admitted he was more of a bike lover. Talking about his early love for F1, he added: 'When I was a kid it was the classic thing where you see the cars on television. Loving the shape and sound of them, then as I was older it was the racing.' Reeves sat down with Natalie Pinkham and said Formula One was similar to the film business. The Matrix actor also tried out the Red Bull simulator during his trip. Watch this weekend’s coverage of the Chinese Grand Prix live on Sky Sports F1 with news and updates at skysports.com/f1.

Keanu Reeves is a self-confessed petrolhead and visited Red Bull. Reeves says the whole process of Formula One is much like Hollywood. Red Bull currently preparing for Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. CLICK HERE for all the latest Formula One news.

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev has been convicted of the 2013 bombing of the Boston Marathon. A federal jury found Tsarnaev guilty on Wednesday over the terror attack that killed three people and wounded more than 260. He kept his hands folded in front of him and looked down at the defence table in the Boston courtroom as the guilty verdicts were read. A sketch shows Dzhokhar Tsarnaev (second left) and his defence team as the guilty verdicts on all charges against him were read on Wednesday. The jury will now decide if he gets the death penalty. Boston Police patrol the outside the John J Moakley Federal Courthouse after the jury verdict. The jury will now decide whether the 21-year-old former student should be sentenced to death or receive life in prison. Tsarnaev's conviction was widely expected, given his lawyer's startling admission during opening statements that he took part in the bombing. But the lawyer also argued that Tsarnaev's older brother, Tamerlan, masterminded the attack and enlisted his then-19-year-old brother to help. On April 19, 2013, Tsarnaev was found hiding in a boat and had written notes inside suggesting the bombing was an act of retribution for U.S. military campaigns in Muslim-dominated countries. Prosecutors portrayed the brothers as full partners in a plan to retaliate against the US for its wars in Muslim countries. The court will likely meet early next week to resume the penalty phase. Families of the victims were also present to hear the verdict but there was no celebration after each 'guilty' was read and jury members were similarly somber. COUNT 1: GUILTY. Conspiracy to use a weapon of mass destruction, resulting in death (Death penalty charge) COUNT 2: GUILTY. Use of a weapon of mass destruction (Pressure Cooker Bomb #1), resulting in death; and aiding and abetting (Death penalty charge) COUNT 3: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Pressure Cooker Bomb #1) during and in relation to a crime of violence, resulting in death; and aiding and abetting (Death penalty charge) COUNT 4: GUILTY. Use of a weapon of mass destruction (Pressure Cooker Bomb #2), resulting in death; and aiding and abetting (Death penalty charge) COUNT 5: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Pressure Cooker Bomb #2) during and in relation to a crime of violence, resulting in death; and aiding and abetting (Death penalty charge) COUNT 6: GUILTY. Conspiracy to bomb a place of public use, resulting in death (Death penalty charge) COUNT 7: GUILTY. Bombing of a place of public use (Pressure Cooker Bomb #1), resulting in death; aiding and abetting (Death penalty charge) COUNT 8: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Pressure Cooker Bomb #1) during and in relation to a crime of violence, resulting in death; aiding and abetting (Death penalty charge) COUNT 9: GUILTY. Bombing of a place of public use (Pressure Cooker Bomb #2), resulting in death; aiding and abetting (Death penalty charge) COUNT 10: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Pressure Cooker Bomb #2) during and in relation to a crime of violence, resulting in death; aiding and abetting (Death penalty charge) COUNT 11: GUILTY. Conspiracy to maliciously destroy property, resulting in death. COUNT 12: GUILTY. Malicious destruction of property by means of an explosive (Pressure Cooker Bomb #1), resulting in death; aiding and abetting. *Death penalty charge. COUNT 13: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Pressure Cooker Bomb #1) during and in relation to a crime of violence, resulting in death; aiding and abetting. *Death penalty charge. COUNT 14: GUILTY. Malicious destruction of property by means of an explosive (Pressure Cooker Bomb #2), resulting in death; aiding and abetting. *Death penalty charge. COUNT 15: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Pressure Cooker Bomb #2) during and in relation to a crime of violence, resulting in death; aiding and abetting. *Death penalty charge. COUNT 16: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Ruger P95 9mm semiautomatic handgun) during and in relation to a crime of violence, resulting in death; aiding and abetting. *Death penalty charge. COUNT 17: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Ruger P95 9mm semiautomatic handgun) during and in relation to a crime of violence, resulting in death; aiding and abetting. *Death penalty charge. COUNT 18: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Ruger P95 9mm semiautomatic handgun) during and in relation to a crime of violence, resulting in death; aiding and abetting. *Death penalty charge. COUNT 19: GUILTY. Carjacking, resulting in serious bodily injury; aiding and abetting. COUNT 20: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Ruger P95 9mm semiautomatic handgun) during and in relation to a crime of violence; aiding and abetting. COUNT 21: GUILTY. Interference with commerce by threats and violence; aiding and abetting. COUNT 22: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (Ruger P95 9mm semiautomatic handgun) during and in relation to a crime of violence; aiding and abetting. COUNT 23: GUILTY. Use of a weapon of mass destruction (Pressure Cooker Bomb #3 on or about April 19, 2013, in the vicinity of Laurel Street and Dexter Avenue in Watertown); aiding and abetting. COUNT 24: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (a Ruger P95 9mm semiautomatic handgun and Pressure Cooker Bomb #3) during and in relation to a crime of violence; aiding and abetting. COUNT 25: GUILTY. Use of a weapon of mass destruction (Pipe Bomb #1 on or about April 19, 2013, in the vicinity of Laurel Street and Dexter Avenue in Watertown); aiding and abetting. COUNT 26: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (a Ruger P95 9mm semiautomatic handgun and Pipe Bomb #1) during and in relation to a crime of violence; aiding and abetting. COUNT 27: GUILTY. Use of a weapon of mass destruction (Pipe Bomb #2 on or about April 19, 2013, in the vicinity of Laurel Street and Dexter Avenue in Watertown); aiding and abetting. COUNT 28: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (a Ruger P95 9mm semiautomatic handgun and Pipe Bomb #2) during and in relation to a crime of violence; aiding and abetting. COUNT 29: GUILTY. Use of a weapon of mass destruction (Pipe Bomb #3 on or about April 19, 2013, in the vicinity of Laurel Street and Dexter Avenue in Watertown); aiding and abetting. COUNT 30: GUILTY. Possession and use of a firearm (a Ruger P95 9mm semiautomatic handgun and Pipe Bomb #3) during and in relation to a crime of violence; aiding and abetting. Source: WBUR.

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev has been convicted of the Boston Marathon bombing. Jury found Tsarnaev guilty on Wednesday over terror attack in 2013. He faces being sentenced to death or life in prison after attack killed three.

Bastia president Pierre-Marie Geronimi has called for French League (LFP) president Frederic Thiriez to step down after he did not come down to the pitch to shake the players' hands ahead of Saturday's League Cup final. 'If you want to be president of a League with 41 clubs instead of 42, you must go,' Geronimi told RMC radio on Sunday. 'What happened last night [Saturday] is unacceptable. Sporting [Bastia] demands that he goes.' French League president Frederic Thiriez (right) has been asked to resign by Bastia president Pierre-Marie Geronimi. The Bastia players look dejected after their League Cup final defeat to Paris Saint Germain on Saturday. Thiago Silva (centre) holds the trophy aloft after PSG beat Bastia 4-0 in the Stade de France in Paris. Sweden international Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored twice and opened the scoring from the spot in the first half. Bastia lost 4-0 to Paris St Germain, who claimed their fifth League Cup trophy with doubles by Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Edinson Cavani. In 2012, Thiriez did not hand Bastia their Ligue 2 champions' trophy. Edinson Cavani was also among the scoring, and netted a brace for his side in their convincing victory.

French League president Frederic Thiriez did not shake players hands ahead of the League Cup final. Bastia lost 4-0 to PSG thanks to Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Edinson Cavani. In 2012, Thiriez did not hand Bastia their Ligue 2 champions' trophy. Saturday's win led the Parisian club to lift their fifth League Cup trophy.

Sam Allardyce responded to David Sullivan’s analysis that West Ham have been ‘exceedingly disappointing’ by telling the co-owner not to judge his team on their form in 2015 alone. West Ham have picked up just 11 points in the Barclays Premier League since the turn of the year but Allardyce feels the season as a whole has been a success. The club have already beaten last year’s total by two points with seven games to spare, as was demanded of Allardyce at the beginning of the season. Sam Allardyce (centre) has told West Ham co-owner David Sullivan not judge his side on 2015's results. Sullivan was asked by whufctv.com what he made of the season so far, and was brief in his answer: ‘The last 12 games have been exceedingly disappointing.’ Reminded that Sullivan was unhappy with West Ham’s form during his press conference, Allardyce said: ‘Is he really? In my position the game of football is about reality. The reality is, is it all about results or is it about performances? ‘The reality is, like everywhere you go, people talk about how you play. Do you play like this? Do you play like that? Sullivan (left) seen here with David Gold admitted the last 12 gamaes have been 'exceedingly disappointing' ‘The bottom line is the game is about winning games of football. We haven’t won enough. We’re all disappointed in the last few results. I have to keep emphasising results because performances have been right up there. This season has always been very exciting. ‘I think we can get carried away and start alluding to what this season has been just by a few games. The overall season where we are has been terrific.’ Allardyce has Enner Valencia available for selection against Stoke City on Saturday following a bizarre toe injury suffered at home, and could use his forward in the starting line-up. Enner Valencia (left) is back in contention for West Ham following his bizarre toe injury he suffered.

Sam Allardyce has told David Sullivan to not judge his side on 2015 form. The co-owner described recent form as #exceedingly disappointing' Enner Valencia returns to the West Ham set-up following a toe injury. CLICK HERE for all the latest West Ham news.

Steve Cotterill could be just a week away from putting Bristol City back into the Championship. The 50-year-old needs just two more wins to achieve the fourth promotion of a career that has been mostly spent rescuing clubs from relegation after goals by Kieran Agard, Joe Bryan and Aaron Wilbraham clinched a local derby victory. In front of a sold-out Ashton Gate, City took revenge for a bitterly fought 1-0 defeat back in November which ended their unbeaten start to the season. Bristol City's Aaron Wilbraham (left) tussles for the ball with Swindon Town's Yaser Kasim (right) Swindon Town's Michael Smith (left) shields the ball from the challenge of the oncoming Luke Ayling (right) Bristol City (4-4-2): Fielding, Ayling, Flint, Williams, Tavernier, Smith, Pack, Freeman (Wagstaff 93), Bryan, Agard (Emmanuel-Thomas 86), Wilbraham (Elliott 94) Subs not used: Saville, Richards, Cunningham, Osborne. Booked: Agard. Scorers: Agard 36, Bryan 80, Wilbraham 87. Swindon (4-4-2): Foderingham, Branco, Ricketts, Turnbull, Byrne, Kasim, Stephens, Luongo, Gladwin (Swift 78), Michael Smith, Williams (Obika 69) Subs not used: Barker, Barthram, Hylton, Rodgers, Cameron Belford. Booked: Turnbull, Kasim. Referee: Neil Swarbrick (Lancashire) Attendance: 12,302. That finished with Swindon chairman Lee Power accusing Cotterill of 'lacking class'. But it was the City boss who had the last laugh with a victory that left Swindon boss Mark Cooper having to pick his side up from two 3-0 defeats in four days that have finished their last hope of automatic promotion. Just to add to their woes they had both Yaser Kasim and Raphael Branco booked, meaning both will now serve suspensions. City had actually needed to ride their luck for much of the first half, with goalkeeper Frank Fielding pulling off three saves in two frantic minutes at one point. And Swindon striker Andy Williams cost Cooper's side their best chance of going in front when he cashed in on a mistake by Aden Flint to go through. He should have squared the ball back to strike partner Michael Smith who couldn' t have missed but instead tried to go it alone and gave Fielding the chance to save. Bristol City striker Kieran Agard (centre) celebrates giving his side the 1-0 lead against Swindon Town. Ben Gladwin (left) brings the ball for Swindon as Bristol City's Joe Bryan (centre) gives chace in midfield. As if that miss wasn't frustrating enough for the visitors, they were then architects of their own downfall when City took the lead on 35 minutes. Yaser Kasim was put under pressure as Swindon tried to play the ball out from the back from a goal kick, and gave it away to Joe Bryan. The young wing back hit a perfect pass to send Agard clear to make no mistake with his 11th goal of the season. City had earned that goal for the way they worked to put pressure on defenders, and they made their own luck again when Derrick Williams stretched to divert Ben Gladwin's shot onto the underside of the bar. Swindon's strike partnership of Williams and Smith had shared 36 goals and it wasn't hard to see why as their movement constantly troubled City's defence. But Williams, who had 21 of them, couldn't quite find his shooting range and put another gilt edged opportunity over the bar just after half time when Massimo Luongo had sent him clear. But that summed up the story of the night with no end product to so much possession, and the game swung back City's way when Jordan Turnbull turned Bryan's cross onto the top of his own bar. With 11 minutes gone Bryan wriggled into some space on the edge of the box, put the ball onto his left foot, and beat Wes Foderingham with a perfectly placed shot into the top corner. And the win was wrapped up when Luke Freeman reached the byline and cut the ball back for skipper Wilbraham to fire home his 19th of the season. Gladwin avoids the sliding tackle of Bristol City's Korey Smith with the home side still leading 1-0 on Tuesday. Massimo Luongo (left) dribbles forward with the ball for Swindon as Marlon Pack (right) keeps up with him.

Bristol City's lead at the top of the League One table was extended to eight points following a 3-0 win over Swindon. Kieran Agard scored the home side's opening goal from inside the box in the first-half. Joe Bryan made it 2-0 with a superb free-kick on 80 minutes before Aaron Wilbraham wrapped up the win from close range later on.

A video taken from the point of view of a train driver captures a ride on the highest railway in Europe, the Jungfrau. The time lapse footage speeds along the 9km long electrified track, which leads from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungraujoch and stands at an elevation of 2061m and 3454m respectively. Opening in a tunnel built into a Swiss mountain, the train careers towards the light and out onto the snowy slopes to race alongside the many skiers. Turning a corner, the train moves at a slow and steady pace – the track barely visible from under the snow. Two people quickly cross the track in front of the train as it begins picking up speed and passes alongside a ledge that looks down on chalets below. The video then shows the train beginning its descent of the mountain, passing very close to a number of skiers who make their own way to the bottom of the slope. The video opens inside a tunnel build into the Swiss mountain as the train makes its way along the 9km long electrified track. Turning right the train enters another tunnel and plunges back into darkness before re-emerging next to even more skiers. Suddenly the train begins travelling even faster as the banks of snow rise up higher alongside it. Like a bobsleigh the train hurtles down the track as the settlement at the bottom of the mountain slowly comes into view. The train emerges into the light and passes very close to a number of skiers who make their own way to the bottom of the slope. The train turns right to enter another tunnel and plunges back into darkness before re-emerging next to even more skiers. Skiers on the distant mountain look like ants as the train begins slowing once more and the size of the banks decrease. A number of people can be seen crossing the track ahead as the train pulls into the station. The video concludes with the train finally arriving and making a controlled stop. The video concludes with the train picking up speed and hurtling down the track like a bobsleigh before arriving at the station. The Jungfrau railway runs almost entirely within the Jungfrau Tunnel, built into the Eiger and Mönch mountains, and contains a total of five stations. The track was opened in 1912, 16 years after construction began in 1896. Today more than 800,000 people visit the attraction every year.

The time lapse footage captures the train descending the 9km long track. Video opens in tunnel built into Swiss mountain before train heads outside. Train passes skiers before picking up speed and reaching the station. The track runs from Kleine Scheidegg (2061m) to Jungraujoch (3454m) Opened in 1912, the track is visited by more than 800,000 people per year.

If the team with momentum hold an ace card heading into the play-offs, then watch out for Wolves. Kenny Jackett’s team moved into sixth place in the Championship with a fourth successive victory after David Edwards, the substitute, headed home two minutes from the end of an unpredictable and thrilling game. Pre-match results had offered Wolves a prospective route into the play-off zone, with Brentford and Ipswich Town dropping points unexpectedly, and Kenny Jackett reflected the burgeoning confidence within Molineux by naming an unchanged starting line-up from the side that prevailed 2-1 at Nottingham Forest on Friday for a third successive victory. Wolves substitute David Edwards races away in celebration after scoring a late winner. Edwards is congratulated by his Wolves team-mates following his 88th-minute winner against Leeds. Wolves striker Benik Afobe slides on his knees after scoring his side's third goal of the afternoon. WOLVES (4-4-2): Ikeme; Iorfa, Batth, Stearman, Golbourne; Henry (Van la Parra 78mins), McDonald, Price, Sako; Afobe, Dicko (Edwards 70) Subs not used: Kuszczak, Doherty, Doyle, Ebanks-Landell, Hause. Booked: Golbourne, Batth. Goals: Dicko 19, 45, Afobe 48, Edwards 88. LEEDS (4-1-4-1): Silvestri; Wootton, Bamba, Cooper, Berardi; Murphy; Byram, Phillips, Mowatt, Taylor; Antenucci (Sharp 82) Subs not used: Taylor, Ngoyi, Cani, Doukara, Sloth, Del Fabro. Booked: Wooton, Byram, Bamba. Goal: Taylor 11, Batth OG 65, Mowatt 74. Referee: David Coote. Attendance: 25,169. With a day less to recover, Leeds had also been on a decent run before Saturday’s 3-0 home defeat by Blackburn Rovers topped another distressing chapter in their tumultuous recent history. Neil Redfearn, the head coach, had said he would consider his future after this game at Wolves after his assistant Steve Thompson had been suspended without explanation. Although Massimon Cellini, Leeds’ banned owner, has subsequently claimed Thomson had used abusive language towards sporting director Nicola Salerno, it was only another spanner in the works for this once-proud club who need stability more than anything. Still, it was Leeds who struck the first blow, courtesy of a poor defensive clearance from Kevin McDonald who, penned back towards his own corner flag by debutant Kalvin Phillips, attempted a loose clearance that cannoned off Richard Stearman, his own team-mate, for Charlie Taylor to sidefoot under Carl Ikeme. Even before the January arrival of Benik Afobe, now level with Harry Kane as the leading goalscorer in all four divisions, Wolves have happily relied on either and both of the Mali combination of Bakary Sako and Nouha Dicko. It was the latter who earned Jackett’s team the lead by half-time. Dicko equalised from the tightest of angles when a cross-shot from Afobe, all loping legs and dizzying stepovers, eluded Marco Silvestri. It still needed a cute finish as the former Wigan striker lifted his shot over Scott Wootton from the byline for his 12th goal of an increasingly impressive season. Alex Mowatt looks delighted after putting Leeds back on level terms by scoring his side's third goal. Wolves goalkeeper Carl Ikeme dives in vain as Mowatt makes it 3-3 before Edwards' late winner. Leeds attempted to disrupt Wolves’ rhythm with some fiercely competitive tackling, Phillips receiving one caution for fouling McDonald then fortunate not to be dismissed for a foul that ripped holes in the former Sheffield United midfielder’s sock. The home side started to put together the pieces of their flowing passing game as half-time approached however and, in stoppage time, Leeds conceded at what appeared to be the worst time. Their defence appeared to disappear as Sako played in Dicko who took his time before firing in off the near post. Wolves turned the screw at the start of the second half as Afobe joined in the goalscoring fun three minutes after the restart. The former Arsenal striker, who scored 19 times on loan for MK Dons in the first half of the season, attempted an audacious overhead kick from Jack Price’s cross into the area. Sako kept play alive, dropping the ball back for Batth, whose shot hit Dicko but fell back for Afobe to smash in his tenth goal for Wolves. Leeds looked as if they might capitulate at this stage before Wolves offered them a lifeline back into the game in the 66th minute. Alex Mowatt’s dink into the penalty area looked pretty harmless and a cry of ‘leave it’ could be heard from the press box, presumably from Ikeme, only for Batth to lunge and divert the ball past his own goalkeeper. Richard Stearman was the next guilty party in the Wolves defence as he gave the ball away cheaply to Mowatt who cut inside and from outside the penalty area curled home a superb equaliser into the top corner. Wolves do possess strength in depth however and in David Edwards they have a midfielder who not only works as hard as anyone in pressing the ball but also chips in with crucial goals. So it was that the substitute rose two minutes from time to head McDonald’s telling cross into the top corner to wrap up the win that took Wolves into sixth place. Leeds United celebrate after Charlie Taylor puts Neil Redfearn's side in the lead during the Molineux clash.

David Edwards scored in the 88th minute to give his side the win. Wolves raced into 3-1 lead before Leeds pulled back two-goal deficit. However Edwards scored late on to ensure Wolves moved up to sixth.

Manchester United winger Ashley Young was in attendance as Crawley Town took on Oldham Athletic in League One on Monday, watching his brother in action for the home side. The England international's younger sibling plays for Crawley as a winger or striker and started their game against the Latics in League One. Crawley are scrambling to avoid relegation from League One but Young was a good omen for the club as they were 2-0 up at half-time. Ashley Young went to watch his younger brother Lewis in action for Crawley against Oldham. Young (right) pictured in action for Manchester United while brother Lewis is a regular in the Crawley side. Young senior played 70 minutes in United's 3-1 victory over his former club Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday. He has been an important player as Louis van Gaal's squad pushes to earn a Champions League return. United are third in the Premier League on 62 points and their next game is on Sunday against local rivals Manchester City.

Ashley Young's brother Lewis plays for Crawley Town as an attacker. The Manchester United man went to watch him play against Oldham. Crawley are battling to get out of the relegation zone in League One.