Efe Ambrose was sent off, and Celtic thrashed in Champions League

                                                                Efe Ambrose
Legia Warsaw 4 - 1 Celtic

Ronny Deila suffered a nightmare first loss as Celtic with a heavy defeat by Legia Warsaw in the Champions League third qualifying round first leg.

Celtic had taken an early lead in Poland with a curling shot into the top corner from Callum McGregor.

However , Mirslav Radovic scored twice , and it got worse before half - time when Efe Ambrose was send off.

Ivica Vrdoljak twice missed from the penalty spot, but Michal Zyro and Jakub Kosecki both found the net late on in the game.

Romelu Lukaku: Everton sign Chelsea striker for £28m

 Everton have signed Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku for the club record £28m.

The 21- year -old Belgian World Cup forward, who scored 16 goals on loan at Everton last season, has signed a five - year contract at Goodison Park.

Everton set to sign Chelsea's Lukaku

Everton are close to signing Belgian World Cup striker Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea on a permanent deal. 

Lukaku, 21, scored 16 goals on loan at Everton last season as the club finished fifth and qualified for Europe for the first time in five years.

The frontman, who joined Chelsea from Anderlecht for £18m in August 2011, tweeted: "Time to write a new chapter."

Lukaku spent the 2012-13 season on loan at West Brom and played only 15 times in all competitions for Chelsea.

Romelu Lukaku's English career statistics
Team	League matches	League goals
Everton	31	15
West Brom	35	17
Chelsea	10	0

He scored 17 goals in 38 games for the Baggies, as the West Midlands club recorded their highest ever Premier League finish of eighth.

Then last season, his performances for Everton earned Lukaku a place in Marc Wilmots's Belgium squad for the 2014 World Cup.

He made four appearances in Brazil, scoring one goal, as Belgium exited in the quarter-finals following a 1-0 loss to Argentina.

Chelsea have signed two strikers, and let two go, this summer before Lukaku's move.

Diego Costa, 25, moved for £32m from Atletico Madrid and club legend Didier Drogba, 36, rejoined on a free transfer. Samuel Eto'o was released and Demba Ba was sold to Besiktas for £4.7m.

Watford sign striker Odion Ighalo on loan from Udinese

Watford have signed Nigerian striker Odion Ighalo on a season-long loan. 

The 25-year-old arrives at Vicarage Road from Italian club Udinese, which is also owned by the Pozzo family.

Ighalo spent most of the last two seasons playing in Spain for Granada on loan, scoring seven goals in 44 games.

He is the ninth new recruit by Watford this summer, following Heurelho Gomes, Gabriel Tamas, Lloyd Dyer, Craig Cathcart, Matej Vydra, Daniel Toszer, Juan Carlos Paredes and Keith Andrews.
They begin the new Championship campaign with a home game against Bolton on Saturday, 9 August, having finished 13th last term, 12 points outside the play-off places.

Zamalek end the reign of coach Mido

Ahmed 'Mido' Hossam Mido has been sacked as coach of Zamalek. 

"Board member Ahmed Soliman informed me today that I'm relieved of my duties," the former Egypt striker said.

The decision brings an end to the 31-year-old's reign only six months after he replaced Helmi Toulan to take up his first job in management.

And it comes despite Mido leading Zamalek to the Egypt Cup, an achievement which made him the youngest Egyptian coach to win a trophy.

However, Zamalek's third place finish in the Egyptian league last season - behind winners and arch-rivals Al Ahly and Smouha - had led to speculation Mido's future was uncertain.

And the club appears to have reacted after the 0-0 draw at home to TP Mazembe at the weekend that has damaged their hopes of reaching the Champions League semi-finals.

Mido retired as a player in 2013, ending his career at English side Barnsley.

Luke Shaw: Man Utd boss Louis van Gaal right about fitness

Manchester United's Luke Shaw has admitted that manager Louis van Gaal was right to question his fitness. 

The England left-back, 19, says he underestimated how difficult the step-up from Southampton would be after his £27m summer move to Old Trafford.

Shaw said he "totally agreed" with comments about his fitness made by Van Gaal in a news conference this week.

"To play in this formation you have to be really fit. I am fit but I am not at the high level he demands," he said.

United have adopted the 3-5-2 system with wing-backs used by Van Gaal during the Netherlands' progress to the World Cup semi-finals in Brazil.

"I have got to get fitter to get up and down. It's something I have got to work on," added Shaw, who has been put on a special fitness programme by the United manager.

World's most expensive defenders
Player	From	To	Amount (£m)	Date
David Luiz	Chelsea	Paris St-Germain	40	2014
Thiago Silva	AC Milan	Paris St-Germain	36	2012
Rio Ferdinand	Leeds United	Manchester United	33.1	2002
Luke Shaw	Southampton	Manchester United	27	2014
Marquinhos	Roma	Paris St-Germain	27	2013
Fabio Coentrao	Benfica	Real Madrid	27	2011
Pepe	Porto	Real Madrid	25	2007

He only played in Tuesday's penalty shoot-out win over Inter Milan in the International Champions Cup  in Washington because youth product Reece James pulled out of the match with injury.

Shaw says the demands of preparation and training at United were "a surprise".

"I didn't come into United thinking it would be much harder," he said. "That's something I think I made a mistake on."

Shaw, the world's fourth most expensive defender, was as a second-half substitute as United drew 0-0 with Inter before winning a penalty shootout 5-3.

"I felt great. I could have played another 45 so that's something that shows there is a progression there after the last game," Shaw added.

"The focus is now to get fitter and fitter and be flying by the start of the season."
Van Gaal reckons his side were good value for their win.

"We deserved the victory, I think," he said. "I am pleased not only because of the way we kept possession, but because of the quality of the opponent."

United now fly to Detroit for Saturday's match against Real Madrid, expected to take place in front of a 100,000 crowd. Real forward Cristiano Ronaldo could be fit to face his former club, with coach Carlo Ancelotti saying the World Player of the Year was recovering well from a knee injury.

The Champions League winners were beaten 1-0 by Roma in Dallas on Tuesday, Francesco Totti scoring the Italian side's winner.

A win on Saturday for United, who beat Roma in their first match, will see them qualify for the final of the friendly tournament on Monday, 4 August in Miami, where they could face Manchester City or Liverpool.

Toure confirms his future is at Man City

Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure has said he wants to stay at the club for "as long as possible".

Reports this summer suggested that the 31-year-old Ivory Coast international was unhappy at Etihad Stadium.

The player's agent, Dimitry Seluk, had claimed Toure felt "disrespected" by the Premier League champions' owners.

But Toure told City's website:  "It was not a case of leaving the club. It was difficult because my situation was quite difficult."

Seluk claimed the player's birthday was ignored by the club's owners when the squad arrived in the United Arab Emirates to celebrate their Premier League title triumph in May.

Toure appeared to support that claim on his Twitter account, before later suggesting he did not know which club he would be playing for in the coming season.

Seluk then told BBC Sport his client wanted a "job for life" at the club despite his upset at his treatment.

And Toure's latest interview reaffirms that position, with him saying: "For me I was always quiet and my decision is that I will stay at Manchester City for as long as possible."

Toure, who signed a new four-year deal last season, also wants to see more signings in the coming weeks to help establish City as a "massive" club.

He added: "If we want to be the best, we need to win every trophy possible."

Liberia bans football over Ebola

 

 

Liberia has suspended all football activities in an effort to control the spread of the deadly Ebola virus.

There was a risk of infection because football is a contact sport, the football association said.

The number of people killed by the virus in West Africa has now reached 672, according to new UN figures.

Everton midfielder Ross Barkley signs new four-year contract

Everton midfielder Ross Barkley has signed a four-year contract extension with the club. 

The 20-year-old scored six Premier League goals last season and was part of the England squad at the World Cup finals in Brazil.

Manager Roberto Martinez said: "It is a four-year deal which reflects his new role and his development. This is as big news as we could get.

"He is still a young man but is a massive part of our squad."

Barkley made his debut for Everton at the start of the 2011-12 season and had loan spells with Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United before becoming a first-team regular under Martinez last season.

He made his England debut against Moldova in September 2013 and made three appearances at the World Cup.

He said: "Signing a new contract is a dream. I've played for Everton most of my life. This is a big thing for me."

Chairman Bill Kenwright said: "Everton and Ross have always been the perfect fit - Roberto has made it even more special.

"This was an important agreement and, I have to say, was conducted in a way that showed clearly the devotion to Everton of everyone involved."

Everton have signed midfielders Gareth Barry and Muhamed Besic this summer, while Martinez himself agreed a new five-year deal in June.

Liverpool sign Belgium striker Divock Origi from Lille for £10m

Liverpool have signed Belgium striker Divock Origi from Lille for £10m. 

The 19-year-old has agreed a five-year contract but will remain at the French club on loan next season and move to Anfield in 2015.

"I am very happy and delighted a club as big as Liverpool showed interest in me," he said. "I'm very excited."
Origi played in all five of Belgium's games at the 2014 Fifa World Cup during their run to the quarter-finals and scored in the 1-0 win over Russia.

Liverpool's summer signings so far
Striker Rickie Lambert, 32, was signed for £4m from Southampton
Midfielder Adam Lallana, 25, was signed for £25m from Southampton
Midfielder Emre Can, 20, was signed for £10m from Bayer Leverkusen
Winger Lazar Markovic, 20, was signed for £20m from Benfica
Defender Dejan Lovren, 25, was signed for £20m from Southampton
Striker Divock Origi, 19, was signed for £10m from Lille

"I know it's a club with a great history, great fans and a lot of great players, " he added.

"For me, Liverpool is one of the greatest clubs in the world and I'm very excited to be part of this great history."

Origi began his career at Genk before moving to Lille as a 15-year-old.

He becomes Liverpool's sixth signing of the summer following Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Dejan Lovren from Southampton, plus Emre Can from Bayer Leverkusen and Lazar Markovic from Benfica.

Man United beat AS Roma 3-2 in a pre-season friendly in Denver

 

Wayne Rooney scored twice and created a goal for Juan Mata as Manchester United beat Roma 3-2 in Denver. 

Rooney's 36th-minute opener from 20 yards sparked a three-goal flurry at the end of the first half.
Mata lobbed home after a raking pass from England striker Rooney, who then scored a stoppage-time penalty.

Miralem Pjanic netted an amazing 75th-minute strike from inside his own half for Roma, before Francesco Totti's 89th-minute spot-kick.

Victory was United's second in succession under new manager Louis van Gaal, following a 7-0 defeat of LA Galaxy.

Roma started the brighter, with Mattia Destro breaking clear in the second minute and lifting a shot over Sam Johnstone - but the ball bounced narrowly over the crossbar.

Mostly, though, it was a series of misplaced passes, poor control and general lethargy in the 30 degree heat.

Rooney lifted the torpor, curling home in exactly the same manner as he had been practising  at the other end of the pitch in Friday's training session.

He then created United's second with an arrowed pass from inside his own half. Mata's one-touch control was instant and his delicate finish perfect

United were on a roll and when Danny Welbeck was prevented from reaching Ander Herrera's return pass by Mehdi Benatia, Rooney's powerful penalty sent Lukasz Skorupski the wrong way from the spot.
As promised, Van Gaal made nine changes at the break.

His preferred system of three central defenders meant an unaccustomed right wing-back role for substitute Ashley Young - and he was soon booked for sliding into Leandro Castan.

In a game of excellent goals, Pjanic scored the most spectacular.

Spotting Ben Amos off his line, the Bosnian sent the ball sailing over the Manchester United keeper from 10 yards inside his own half.

Amos was helpless, the ball not even bouncing as it entered the net.

Totti then converted a penalty following Michael Keane's handball a minute from time, but United held on and face Inter Milan next in Washington on 29 July.

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal said:
"I think we didn't play a good match. When you are 3-0 ahead, the only thing you have to do is keep the ball and the opponent has to run and run and run.

"It's very difficult in this hot weather to do that, but we forgot. We brought Roma back into match.
"I am pleased we have won, but it was not good."

  By Simon Stone BBC Sport in Denver

Millwall sign ex-Everton striker Magaye Gueye

Championship club Millwall have signed former Everton striker Magaye Gueye on a free transfer. 

The 24-year-old, who left Goodison Park this summer after four years with the Toffees, has agreed a one-year deal with an option for a further 12 months.

Gueye joined Everton from Strasbourg in 2010 and scored three goals in 39 outings for the Premier League club.

A former France Under-21 international, Gueye featured for Senegal at the Olympic Games in London in 2012.

The forward, who spent the second half of the 2012-13 campaign on loan at French side Brest, scored on his only appearances for Everton last season - the FA Cup fourth-round victory over Stevenage.

He becomes Millwall's fifth signing of the summer following the arrival of right-back Carlos Edwards, centre-back Byron Webster and strikers Lee Gregory and Ricardo Fuller.

South Africa name Ephraim 'Shakes' Mashaba as new coach

Ephraim Mashaba was re-appointed as coach of South Africa's national team on Saturday, the fourth time he has taken the helm of Bafana Bafana.

Mashaba, more commonly known as 'Shakes', has had two previous caretaker spells with the senior team and was the permanent coach between August 2002 and November 2003.

His most recent role was in charge of the national Under-20s side, and is currently in Mali on a west African tour with the team.

The South African Football Association (Safa) opted for a local coach having looked at a number of other options. 

Carlos Queiroz, who led Iran at the World Cup in Brazil, and Stephen Keshi of Nigeria were both linked to the post.

The Dutch duo of Frank Rijkaard and Dick Advocaat were also in the running.

In accepting the position, 63-year-old Mashaba said he was relishing the challenge.

"This is a massive but exciting test. I am elated and ready for the challenge," Mashaba told Safa's website  .

"I will do all my best to bring back the winning mentality within Bafana Bafana. With the support of all South Africans, the goal of taking Bafana Bafana back to the top is very achievable.

"The good thing about this job is that I have a clear idea of what I need to do but will first meet the Safa leadership to agree additional performance terms."

Mashaba had a tempestuous relationship with his Safa bosses during his first spell in charge of the side and was sacked after refusing to recall overseas based players Quinton Fortune and Hans Vonk when they asked to be excused from a training camp ahead of the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations.

He was also axed from the bench in the middle of that spell for a high-profile friendly against England in 2003 when he also refused to call on the country's top players in Europe.

His appointment this time around was met with optimism by Safa's President, Dr Danny Jordaan.

"He has a proven record, is a hard worker and he fulfilled all requirements we were looking for to drive our senior national team back to where we all believe they belong - at the top," said Dr Jordaan.

South Africa have had 17 coaches since their re-admission into international football in 1992 following a Fifa ban due to Apartheid, though five of those, including Mashaba, have had more than one go in the hot-seat.

The fortunes of the national side have been in steady decline since their high of winning the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations, and became the only host nation to exit the World Cup in the first round in 2010.

South Africa are currently ranked 14 in Africa and 66 in the world and poor tournament results cost Igesund his job.

Hosts South Africa were eliminated in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals after losing a penalty shootout against Mali.

They also failed to qualify for the 2014 World Cup, surprisingly finishing second behind lowest seeds Ethiopia in a mini-league.

The first task for Mashaba will be to qualify for the 2015 Cup of Nations in Morocco by achieving a top-two finish in a group including Nigeria, Sudan and Congo Brazzaville or Rwanda.

Bafana Bafana have never beaten Nigeria in a competitive match and often struggled in the past against the combative Congolese.

South Africa face Sudan (away) and Nigeria (home) in September, Congo or Rwanda away and home in October and Sudan (home) and Nigeria (away) in November.

QPR recall Brazil keeper Julio Cesar from Toronto FC

QPR have recalled Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar from his loan spell at Major League Soccer side Toronto FC. 

The 34-year-old joined the Canadian club in February after just one appearance for QPR in the Championship.

Cesar played in all of Brazil's games at the World Cup and was the hero in the penalty shootout win over Chile.

In a statement, Toronto said: "We'd like to thank Julio for everything he brought to our club. He made an immediate impact."

Cesar joined QPR from Italian side Inter Milan on a four-year deal in August 2012.

Former England goalkeeper Robert Green established himself as first choice during Rangers' promotion back to the Premier League and signed a two-year contract extension with the club in July.

Rio Ferdinand and Steven Caulker make QPR debuts in Leipzig loss

Centre-backs Rio Ferdinand and Steven Caulker made their QPR debuts as Harry Redknapp's side lost 2-0 to Red Bull Leipzig in Germany. 

The defensive duo, signed from Manchester United and Cardiff City respectively, played 45 minutes each.
Two second-half strikes from Yussuf Poulsen secured victory for the second-tier hosts.

Redknapp will be hoping for a better result when Rangers return to England and take on Leyton Orient on Tuesday.

Ferdinand, signed on a free transfer, started the match in the centre of defence alongside Republic of Ireland international Richard Dunne.

Caulker, recruited for an undisclosed fee, came on at the start of the second half and played next to Nedum Onuoha.

Trialist Jack Collison, who left West Ham this summer, also played the second half.

QPR first half: Green, Simpson, Ferdinand, Hill, Phillips, Barton, Austin, Wright-Phillips, Doughty, Henry, Dunne.

QPR second half: Green, Caulker, Collison, Wright-Phillips (Ehmer 69), Onuoha, O'Neil, Faurlin, Petrasso, Dunne (Sendles-White 69), Zamora, Sutherland.

Lallana to miss start of season after suffering knee injury

New Liverpool signing Adam Lallana will miss the start of the new Premier League season after suffering a knee injury in training.

The midfielder moved to Anfield for a €32 million fee after representing England at the World Cup but damaged his lateral collateral ligament on Friday.

Lallana is now expected to be sidelined for "up to six weeks", likely ruling him out of Liverpool's first game of the season against former side Southampton.

"Lallana has been assessed by Liverpool's medical staff and does not require surgery," a club statement read."

"No specific timeframe has been placed on a return to fitness, but injuries of this nature can result in a spell of anywhere up to six weeks on the sidelines.

"The England international will undergo further assessment by the club's medical team in the United States and on return to Liverpool."

Louis Van Gaal orders Man Utd to speak English - Juan Mata

Manchester United's record signing Juan Mata has revealed new manager Louis van Gaal has told his players they must communicate in English

.

Mata has already struck up a bond with fellow countryman Ander Herrera, who joined from Athletic Bilbao earlier in the summer.

However, on the pitch, speaking in Spanish has been ruled out.

"We speak in English," he said. "The manager says we have to speak in English."

It is not the only change Van Gaal has made since his arrival at United earlier this month.

The Netherlands World Cup coach has also decided his team is going to play with wing-backs during the coming campaign.

It worked to positive effect during the World Cup, when Van Gaal guided his team to third spot.

And at Old Trafford, the aim is to get the most from his key attacking trio of Mata, Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie, by placing the responsibility for defending in wide positions to his two wing-backs.

Mata added: "The truth is we are trying to play with a new system. I don't know how much time it takes - maybe one month or two but the most important thing is to believe in what we do.

"For me personally if I play behind the two strikers it's a good position. I can look for the ball. I feel comfortable in this role.

"This system can be very dangerous. But you have to communicate and co-ordinate."

Mata is in a similar position to last season, when a big-name manager took over at Chelsea.

The 26-year-old did not find favour with Jose Mourinho and after starting just 11 Premier League games in the first half of the season, opted to join United in a £37.1m deal.

Now it is Van Gaal that must be convinced.

The Dutchman has already mentioned the large amount of 'number 10s' in his squad, so it would be no surprise if one or more failed to survive the August transfer deadline.

Not that Mata is showing any public concern at that.

Apart from the grief Van Gaal's team inflicted upon Spain with that 5-1 hammering in Brazil, Mata has been hugely impressed with the 62-year-old.

"He is very honest," said the former Valencia player.

"He is straight as he speaks to everyone to their face. That is the perfect way to do it."

The Spain star is just focussing on guiding United back to the position they have occupied so often at the top of the table.

"This club was made to win," he said.

"Ever since I was young Manchester United was winning trophies or fighting for them.

"That is what we have to do"

  By Simon Stone BBC Sport, in Denver, USA

Arsenal set to sign Southampton defender Calum Chambers

Arsenal are close to completing the signing of Southampton defender Calum Chambers for a fee of about £16m. 

The England Under-19 international underwent a medical on Friday.

Chambers, 19, has made 25 senior appearances for the Saints and Arsenal see him as an option at right-back, centre-back or in a more advanced role.

Arsenal have also enquired about Saints midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, 24, who played for France at the World Cup.

Tottenham: Ugo Ehiogu appointed coach of under-21 side

Tottenham have appointed former Middlesbrough and Aston Villa defender Ugo Ehiogu as coach of their under-21s. 

The 41-year-old, who made more than 500 appearances at club level and won four England caps, has been working part-time with the club's academy.

He will be assisted by former Spurs academy player Matthew Wells, who steps up from coaching the club's under-15s.

On Wednesday, Spurs announced former captain Ledley King would coach their under-18 side on a part-time basis.

Tottenham finished 12th of the 22 teams in the under-21 league in 2013-14 as Chelsea's youngsters took the title.

South Africa set to name new coach

South Africa will announce their new coach on Saturday, with Carlos Queiroz thought to be the frontrunner. 

However, the Portuguese has reportedly been offered an improved deal to stay in his current role as Iran coach.

And his salary demands could force South Africa to look elsewhere.

"If Queiroz is unavailable, there are other candidates. We will not become involved in a bidding war," said South Africa Football Association president Danny Jordaan.

Queiroz coached South Africa for two years from 2000 but was sacked after qualifying the side for the 2002 World Cup. 

He has been in charge of Iran since 2011 and took them took to the World Cup in Brazil, where they were eliminated at the group stage.

Safa have been looking for a replacement for Gordon Igesund since June when it announced his contact, which expires at the end of August, would not be renewed.

The new coach's first task will be to lead Bafana Bafana to the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

South Africa's qualification group starts on the weekend of 5/6 September, with Bafana Bafana away to Sudan. They will also face Africa champions Nigeria and the winner of the second-round match between Congo and Rwanda.

Under Igesund, South African failed to qualify for the 2014 World Cup and they also suffered a quarter-final exit on home soil at the 2013 African Nations Cup.

Troussier ready to inspire CS Sfaxien

No-nonsense French coach Philippe Troussier returns to African football this weekend after a six-year absence when he leads CS Sfaxien against fellow Tunisians Esperance in the Champions League. 

Since quitting as Morocco coach in 2008 just weeks after taking over, the 'White Witchdoctor' has worked with Japanese and Chinese clubs.

But the desire to be close to his Rabat-based family led 59-year-old Troussier to sign a two-contract with the four-time Confederation of African Football title winners.

Sfaxien chairman Lotfi Abdennadher was thrilled at capturing a coach who rose to prominence by winning three consecutive Ivorian titles from 1990 for Asec Mimosas.

"We have never had a coach of his level, experience, ability and vision. Talking with Philippe I quickly realised we were on the same wavelength," he said.

Troussier succeeds out-of-contract Hammadi Daou, who spend a short time in charge when Dutch coach Ruud Krol moved to Esperance.

He could not have got a tougher baptism with Sfaxien than a Group B clash at home against bitter domestic rivals Esperance.

Opposing former Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Burkina Faso and South Africa coach Troussier will be compatriot Sebastien Desabre
.
When Krol was axed after Esperance suffered shock losses to Algerians Entente Setif and Libyans Al Ahli Benghazi, Desabre took charge.

The 37-year-old rising star among Africa-based coaches stopped the rot by plotting a come-from-behind 2-1 early June victory over Sfaxien in Tunis.

This result coupled with the failure of Setif to build on a winning start, means only two points separate the table-topping Algerians from bottom club Esperance.

Were Setif and Benghazi to draw Friday - as they did last month - Esperance would rise from the bottom of the table to the top with a two-goal victory over Sfaxien.

Troussier is renowned as a strict disciplinarian and an early victim of his approach was highly-rated 20-year-old midfielder Ibrahim Ndong.

The Gabonese was kicked out of a training camp because he "lacked rigour and discipline" and a couple of fringe players suffered a similar fate.

Sfaxien won all four Champions League qualifiers with star striker Fakreddine Ben Youssef scoring in each game before defeating Benghazi at home and holding Setif away.

But the loss at Esperance left them second on the standings, one point behind Setif, level with Benghazi, and one point ahead of the Blood and Gold.

The first Tunisian derby turned in 60 seconds as Oussama Darragi cancelled the lead Maher Hannachi gave Sfaxien, and Idriss Mhirssi snatched the match-winner.

Ongoing lawlessness in Libya means Benghazi must continue to play 'home' fixtures in neighbouring Tunisia and a win over Setif would leave them well placed to reach the semi-finals.

The potent mix of Libyan, Egyptian, Nigerian and Zimbabwean stars has already exceeded expectations by eliminating title-holders Al Ahly from Egypt in a qualifier.

Group A is almost as tight with four-time champions TP Mazembe on six points, fellow Democratic Republic of Congo club Vita and Sudanese Al-Hilal on four and Egyptians Zamalek on three.

There could be a dramatic swing here, too, with Zamalek going from the bottom to the top if they defeat Mazembe in Alexandria and Vita and Hilal draw in Kinshasa.

Mazembe pipped Zamalek 1-0 last month in a bad-tempered clash that led to a three-match ban for visiting striker Dominique da Silva, who assaulted the referee.

"We have three group matches to play - two at home - and positive results in all of them will guarantee us a semi-finals place," stressed Zamalek coach Ahmed 'Mido' Hossam.

A concern for Brazil-born Hilal coach Paulo Campos will be that the Omdurman club have not won away in 13 group games spanning eight years.

Dejan Lovren set for Liverpool medical ahead of £20m move

Southampton defender Dejan Lovren will undergo a medical with Liverpool over the weekend after the clubs reached agreement on a £20m move. 

The 25-year-old Croatia defender, who played in all of his side's matches at the World Cup, has spoken publicly about his wish to join the Reds.

Lovren will undergo his medical at Anfield before Liverpool return from their tour of the United States.
Both Liverpool and Southampton refused to comment.

Liverpool's summer signings so far
Striker Rickie Lambert, 32, was signed for £4m from Southampton
Midfielder Adam Lallana, 25, was signed for £25m from Southampton
Midfielder Emre Can, 20, was signed for £10m from Bayer Leverkusen
Winger Lazar Markovic, 20, was signed for £20m from Benfica

Liverpool have already bought Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana from Southampton this summer.

Lovren, who joined Southampton from Lyon for £8.5m last summer, will leave St Mary's 12 months into a four-year contract.

Chelsea re-sign club legend Didier Drogba on free transfer

Striker Didier Drogba has re-signed for Chelsea on a one-year deal. 

The Ivorian, 36, won 10 trophies at Chelsea from 2004 to 2012 and was a free agent after leaving Galatasaray.

Manager Jose Mourinho had earlier said the forward "belongs" at Stamford Bridge - but that any deal would be made "in a non-emotional way".

Drogba told Chelsea's official site:  "It was an easy decision - I couldn't turn down the opportunity to work with Jose again."

He said: "Everyone knows the special relationship I have with this club and it has always felt like home to me.
"My desire to win is still the same and I look forward to the opportunity to help this team. I am excited for this next chapter of my career."

Drogba wrote on his Instagram account: "So CFC offered me the opportunity to create more history with these guys - how could I say no? Thanks to the club and can't wait to see the fans again" 

West Ham striker Andy Carroll faces long lay-off with ankle injury

West Ham's Andy Carroll has torn ligaments in his ankle and could be out of action for four months.

The former Liverpool player, 25, is set to have an operation on Friday in the United States.

Carroll picked up the problem on the Hammers' tour of New Zealand, reporting a sore left ankle in training.
He tweeted:  "Going under the knife tomorrow morning and absolutely devastated to be missing the start of the season."

Jack Sullivan, son of co-owner David, tweeted details  of the extent of the injury on Thursday following a question and answer session with his father.

He wrote: "Very bad news regarding AC. Torn ligaments in ankle. Operation tomorrow with top surgeon in USA. Will be playing in four months."

The club only discovered the full extent of the injury on Thursday evening.

Carroll missed West Ham's 2-1 defeat at the hands of Wellington Phoenix and the club announced he would miss the rest of the tour.

He has been plagued by injury since moving to Upton Park for a club record £15m from Liverpool after impressing during a loan spell.

He missed the majority of 2013-14 with a heel problem - managing just 15 league appearances - and also failed to force his way into England's World Cup squad.

Eliaquim Mangala: Manchester City website shows 'signing' video

Manchester City have released a video that appears to show Porto defender Eliaquim Mangala signing for the club. 

The France international, 23, has been linked with City and was spotted in Manchester earlier this month but no official announcement has been made.

However, a clip on the club's website - which has since been taken down - shows the player undergoing a medical.

City say their system was hacked, that the video should not have gone out and that the deal has not been completed.

A spokesman said: "Our video storage system for City TV has been hacked and the video was leaked. The deal is not done or officially confirmed on our website."

The footage, shot for City TV, shows a private jet touching down at Manchester Airport accompanied by the caption "9am: French international defender Eliaquim Mangala arrives in Manchester."

The player then disembarks and is met by club officials. "City's newest signing en-route to his medical," proclaims the next caption.

Mangala, dressed in a black leather jacket, black jeans and a white shirt, is then taken in a chauffeur-driven Mercedes to the club's Carrington training ground where he is shown the gym.

He is asked to give a message to City fans.

"I am here to help the team win titles, the league, the cup and the Champions League," he says. "I am ambitious and this is why I am here."

He is then asked what his ambition is with City.

"To play as many games as possible and to help the team the best I can to be champions of England."

Mangala, who was in the France squad for the recent 2014 Fifa World Cup but remained an unused substitute throughout the tournament, came close to joining City in January.

By Mike Keegan BBC Sport 

New York City FC sign ex-Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard

Former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has joined Major League Soccer side New York City FC on a two-year deal. 

Lampard, 36, was released by the Blues at the end of last season after his contract expired to end his 13-year association with the London side.

He moved from West Ham to Chelsea in June 2001 in an £11m transfer and became the club's record goalscorer with 211 goals in his 649 appearances.


"New York ticks all the right boxes for me. It's very exciting," said Lampard.

"Chelsea will always have a huge place in my heart, but it's now a new challenge.

"I had a fantastic 13 years there and can look back at that with pride, but it was a great time for me and Chelsea to move on.

"Having seen the vision of this club, I have seen a real long-term plan and I want to be involved and I want to keep on challenging myself."

Newly-formed New York City FC will play in their first MLS season in 2015.

The franchise, which is owned by Manchester City, are currently building their squad and have already signed ex-Spain striker David Villa from La Liga winners Atletico Madrid.

However, Villa, 32, will spend three months on loan from October to December at Australia A-League side Melbourne City and Lampard could look for a similar loan spell, or train in England to maintain his fitness.

New York sporting director Claudio Reyna, who played in Scotland with Rangers and in the Premier League with Sunderland and Manchester City, described the deal as "really exciting".

"Frank Lampard is one of the greatest players in Premier League history and in European and world football over the last 15 years," he added.

"He is a leader and we are extremely delighted to have him here."

During his time at Stamford Bridge, Lampard was Chelsea's vice-captain and won the Premier League title three times, the Champions League once and the Europa League once.

He also won four FA Cups and the League Cup twice and has also gained 106 England caps throughout his career, with his last international appearance coming in the 0-0 draw against Costa Rica in the World Cup.

England captain Steven Gerrard announced his retirement from international football last week and Lampard admitted he would have to consider his own future with the national team.

He added: "In terms of England, I've not had a lot of time after the World Cup. Getting my personal future was the most important, now I have to think about England.

"Now I know where I will be playing my football, I can make that decision and I will do soon."

Serge Aurier joins Paris St-Germain on loan from Toulouse

Ivory Coast international Serge Aurier has joined French champions Paris St-Germain on loan from Toulouse. 

With sanctions looming over PSG after they failed Uefa's financial fair play (FFP) rules, the club has negotiated an option to buy Aurier at a later date.

The 21-year-old right-back played in all of his country's matches at the World Cup in Brazil.

"To play for PSG, with the exceptional players this club has, is a dream come true," Aurier told the club's website. 

"I will give my maximum to help the club reach the summits. After taking part in the World Cup for the first time, I am having a fantastic summer. 

"I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me."

Aurier had been linked with a move to the English Premier League, with Arsenal believed to have made a bid for the defender.

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said: "Serge Aurier, one of the most promising young players in world football, courted by the biggest clubs, has chosen Paris St-Germain to continue to shine on the European stage.

"We are delighted to welcome this young player into our team."

Aurier, who will wear the number 19, becomes the capital club's second recruit of the transfer window following the arrival of Brazil defender David Luiz from Chelsea.
 

Maigari removed as Nigeria Football Federation president

Aminu Maigari has been removed as Nigeria Football Federation president by the body's executive committee. 

He was dismissed over allegations of "financial misappropriation, misapplication and maladministration".
The NFF executive committee passed a vote of no confidence on Thursday.

Its decision comes a week after a regional high court reinstated Maiguri and the NFF board following their sacking which had led to a Fifa ban on Nigeria for government interference.

The NFF said in a statement it had acted because of "the uncalled-for secrecy surrounding all financial dealings of the federation and failure to call a meeting of the executive committee for the past eight months".

It added: "Vice President, Chief Mike Okeke Umeh, will take up the position of Acting President and will preside over the affairs of the federation, pending the composition of the new NFF executive committee after the elections of 26 August."

  By Oluwashina Okeleji BBC Sport

Nigeria want to open talks with Keshi over a new deal

The Nigeria Football Federation has revealed it wants discussions with Stephen Keshi in the hope of persuading him to return as Super Eagles coach. 

The development is a U-turn from the governing body after it allowed Keshi's contract to expire after the World Cup.

However, Nigeria's sports ministry is understood to feel Keshi has made" outrageous" demands over a new deal.

The 52-year-old led Nigeria to their third African title in 2013 and the last 16 at the World Cup in Brazil.
But his reign as coach was littered with problems over money, as he experienced a number of delays in receiving his salary, and issues around his control of team selection.

He has reportedly sought a new deal that would double his $30,000-a-month salary, ensure monies are paid upfront to avoid delays and also allow him to pick his staff.

Following a meeting of the NFF executive committee, the board "mandated the technical sub-committee to open channels of communication with Stephen Keshi with a view to extending his contract, as the NFF is still interested in working with him". 

It added: "The technical sub-committee is to report back to the executive committee within one week."
Meanwhile, Nigeria's sports minister Tammy Danagogo says football officials in the country must put aside their differences for Nigeria to go beyond the round of 16 at the World Cup.

"The only way we can go beyond round of 16 is to ensure that the right things are done," he said.

"If [the round of 16] is a jinx we must break it. And it is by ensuring that the right things happen; by ensuring that NFF does not complain that the minister is disturbing them.

"It is by ensuring that club owners are not complaining against the NFF, it is by ensuring players and coaches are not complaining that NFF or club owners are short-changing them."

  By Oluwashina Okeleji & Ian Hughes BBC Sport

Ben Davies & Michel Vorm join Spurs, Swansea sign Sigurdsson

                                                            Ben Davies

                                                                  Michel Vorm

Tottenham have signed Swansea City pair Ben Davies and Michel Vorm, with Gylfi Sigurdsson moving the other way. 

Wales full-back Davies, 21, joins on a five-year deal and Netherlands goalkeeper Vorm, 30, has agreed a four-year contract with the Londoners.

Iceland international midfielder Sigurdsson, 24, has signed a four-year deal with Swansea.

He spent 2011-12 on loan at the Liberty Stadium from German club Hoffenheim, scoring seven goals in 18 appearances.

Spurs are thought to have fought off stiff competition for Davies, with Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers understood to be an admirer.

But Davies said Spurs were "the ones chasing me from the beginning" and that joining the north London club was "too good an opportunity to turn down".

He told Swansea's official website:  "I had never thought or wanted to leave Swansea, but an opportunity like this doesn't come up often in your career."

Davies made his debut for the Swans as a 19-year-old in August 2012 and quickly established himself as first-choice left-back when Neil Taylor suffered a long-term injury.
 
His performances impressed Wales manager Chris Coleman, who handed the Neath-born player the first of his 10 caps in the 2-1 win over Scotland in October 2012.

Vorm was part of the Dutch squad that finished third at the Fifa World Cup in Brazil earlier this month, but his future has looked in doubt at Swansea ever since former Arsenal keeper Lukasz Fabianski was signed in May.

He will compete with France number one Hugo Lloris and 43-year-old Brad Friedel for selection at Spurs.

Sigurdsson arrives at the Liberty after spending two seasons at White Hart Lane, scoring eight goals in 58 top-flight appearances for the London club.

He said: "It was tough leaving a club that I've enjoyed playing for over the last few years, but as soon as Swansea came in it was an easy decision to make."

Spanish forward Michu has left Swansea to join Napoli on loan, while winger Pablo Hernandez is believed to be on the brink of a move to Al Arabi in Qatar.

Swansea boss Garry Monk has also signed ex-Lyon striker Bafetimbi Gomis and Middlesbrough forward Marvin Emnes.

The Welsh club are also thought to be close to completing a deal to sign Ecuador World Cup winger Jefferson Montero from Mexican club Monarcas Morelia.

Louis van Gaal off to winning start as Man Utd beat LA Galaxy:

Manchester United's new manager Louis van Gaal made a winning start as Wayne Rooney scored twice in a 7-0 defeat of LA Galaxy in front of a crowd of 86,432 at the Rose Bowl in California. 

Winger Ashley Young and debutant defender Reece James, 20, also scored two goals each after striker Danny Welbeck had opened the scoring.

                                                           Danny Welbeck



Van Gaal, who succeeded David Moyes, made United's longest-serving player, midfielder Darren Fletcher, captain for the pre-season friendly, the first of four games on the club's US tour.

The Dutchman, who led the Netherlands to the semi-finals of the 2014 Fifa World Cup, saw another debutant, Ander Herrera, dictate proceedings in midfield with a good range of short and long passes delivered crisply and accurately.

Van Gaal marked his arrival at the Pasadena Rose Bowl with some almost magisterial waving to United supporters as the team coach approached the stadium which hosted the 1994 World Cup final.

Manchester United's new manager Louis van Gaal made a winning start as Wayne Rooney scored twice in a 7-0 defeat of LA Galaxy in front of a crowd of 86,432 at the Rose Bowl in California. 

Winger Ashley Young and debutant defender Reece James, 20, also scored two goals each after striker Danny Welbeck had opened the scoring.

Van Gaal, who succeeded David Moyes, made United's longest-serving player, midfielder Darren Fletcher, captain for the pre-season friendly, the first of four games on the club's US tour.

The Dutchman, who led the Netherlands to the semi-finals of the 2014 Fifa World Cup, saw another debutant, Ander Herrera, dictate proceedings in midfield with a good range of short and long passes delivered crisply and accurately.

Van Gaal marked his arrival at the Pasadena Rose Bowl with some almost magisterial waving to United supporters as the team coach approached the stadium which hosted the 1994 World Cup final.

There were few signs of emotion from the 62-year-old when striker Welbeck put his side in front with a first-time finish from 20 yards. 

Welbeck had been one of the players he had been urging to "look at the ball" during shooting practice in Tuesday's training session.

But even after the England man had drilled home the loose ball once Mata had been fouled, Van Gaal restricted himself to a raised right fist as he rose to acknowledge the first goal of his reign.

Overlooked for the captaincy after Fletcher was handed the armband, Rooney doubled the visitors' lead from the penalty spot three minutes before the break.

By the time he strode purposefully down the tunnel at half-time, Van Gaal had seen his team score again, Rooney profiting from Tommy Meyer's abysmal defending, and he had also been in animated discussion with the fourth official over an incident that had evidently angered him.

Bacup-born left-back James, who was on loan at Carlisle last season, reacted joyously to both his goals and, as Galaxy's defence fell apart, Young scored twice in as many minutes at the end.

In changing his entire team during the interval, apart from midfielders Fletcher and Herrera, Van Gaal made good his promise to look at everyone before deciding who needs to be kept and who will be released.

LA Galaxy (4-1-3-2) Penedo; Gargan, Meyer, Leonardo, DLG; Ishizaki, Sarvas, Juninho, Husidic; R Keane, Zardes
Manchester United (3-4-1-2) De Gea; Smalling, Jones, Evans; Valencia, Fletcher, Herrera, Shaw; Mata; Rooney, Welbeck.
Second-half - (5-3-2) Lindegaard; Rafael, M Keane, Fletcher, Blackett, James; Herrera, Cleverley, Kagawa; Young, Nani.


  By Simon Stone BBC Sport in Los Angeles

Barcelona sign £15.8m defender Jeremy Mathieu from Valencia

Barcelona have signed Valencia defender Jeremy Mathieu on a four-year deal for a fee of £15.8m.

Mathieu, 30, has won two caps for France and can play at left-back or centre-back.

He will replace former captain Carles Puyol, who has retired from playing after 15 years at the club.

A Barcelona statement said:  "The cost of the transfer of Mathieu is 20m euros and the buyout clause will be 50m euros."

Mathieu made 126 league appearances in five seasons at Valencia, scoring six times.

Barcelona - who finished second in La Liga last season - have had a busy summer under new coach Luis Enrique.

They broke their transfer record to sign striker Luis Suarez from Liverpool for £75m, and also brought in midfielder Ivan Rakitic from Sevilla.

Goalkeepers Marc-Andre Ter Stegen and Claudio Bravo have also arrived, while Cesc Fabregas, Puyol, Victor Valdes, Bojan Krkic and Alexis Sanchez have all left the Nou Camp.

Partick Thistle sign ex-Crewe midfielder Abdul Osman

Ghanaian Abdul Osman will return to Scotland's top-flight after a six-year absence after the former Gretna midfielder signed for Partick Thistle. 

The 27-year-old was released after two seasons with Crewe Alexandra in England's League One.
But he has signed a one-year contract at Firhill after a successful trial.

Osman spent a season with Gretna as they finished bottom of Scotland's top flight before the club folded and he signed for Northampton Town.

The midfielder, who began his career with Maidenhead United, spent a season in Greece with Kerkyra before returning to England to join Crewe.

Osman made 36 appearances last season as Crewe finished 19th in League One.

He becomes Thistle manager Alan Archibald's second summer signing following the arrival of midfielder Ryan Stevenson, who was released by Hearts.

Fifa backs Sierra Leone match-fixing inquiry

Fifa president Sepp Blatter has declared his support for Sierra Leone's inquiry into alleged match-fixing. 

Last week 15 players and officials were suspended indefinitely by the Sierra Leone Football Association over allegations of match-fixing.

"Match fixing shakes the very foundations of sport, namely fair play, respect and discipline," said Blatter.

"Fifa employs a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to any infringement of these values."

He added: "We therefore fully support the SLFA,"