Novak Djokovic is the biggest loser of tennis' golden generation

Djokovic is a victim of tennis' golden generation (©GettyImages).

Novak Djokovic may well storm to Wimbledon success but it is unlikely that the Serbian star will ever be remembered as fondly as his fellow rivals in the sport.

Tennis fans have been treated to a period of unrivaled bliss, as the golden generation continue to float upon a cloud of immortality.

However, as is the way with professional sport, only the creamiest members of the elite crop will ultimately be ironed into the minds of future players and audience of the sport. 

Djokovic, and possibly Andy Murray, are set to be the biggest losers in the 'big four' also including Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. Murray's saving grace is perhaps the most controversial part of his career - his 'Britishness', as his fans would say, or 'Scottishness', as his detractors might say.'

The fact that somebody from this small yet mighty island finally broke a 70+ year hoodoo and won Wimbledon, will be enough to get himself a chapter or two in tennis' most privileged book of history.

Unfortunately for Djokovic, numbers seem to do a lot of talking.

People will look at Federer's Grand Slam haul of 17 and they'll look at Nadal's, which will pass 14 and could yet surpass Federer's 17. Djokovic could hop into double figures from the six he already owns, but there'll be no challenging his rivals in the charts or the memory. 

Right now, the world number two is the focus of most fans' and pundits' gaze because of his amazing rivalry with Nadal, however when the sun sets on both their careers and all is considered, most likely it'll be the Spaniard who is lauded as the winner.

We know how desperate Djokovic is to finally taste victory at Roland Garros, and this year's familiar tale of woe could prove to be a killer blow in his legacy.

If he was to oust Nadal then there would've have been no better time. The world number one was on his knees coming into the tournament and on a downward spiral we have never witnessed before, while Djokovic was striding into town Napoleon-style and convincing the people of Paris to think of him as their new leader.

That sort of confidence will be tough to rebuild.

Even if Djokovic does go on to win in France one day, it will never have the same feel.  

Image is also a deceptively large part of sporting history. You have to have something to remember yourself by aside from talent. Just look at David Beckham, nobody will have him down as the greatest ever footballer, but absolutely everybody, barring an outlandish tribe in ravenous jungle, knows who David Beckham is.

In tennis you have Federer, the king of cool. Aside from the Swiss star's majestic aura, not unlike the king lion in a pride, you have the anticipation as to how shiny his Rolex will be and what sort of specifically made Nike white suit will he stroll out to matches in.   

On the other side you have Nadal, the tennis equivalent to Justin Bieber. The grannies love him, and the blokes would love to be him. 

Apparently Djokovic is the joker of the tour, but as he admitted already, we the the fans don't get to see that. So what else does he possess as his party trick? - Not an awful lot.

It's a shame that it has to be that way, but things aren't always fair. 

Ed Slater to captain England against Crusaders

The lock previously played four times for England Saxons. (©GettyImages).

Leicester Tigers’ Ed Slater will captain England against Super Rugby side Crusaders on Tuesday.

The lock is just one of four players who will make their first appearance for England in the tour match in Christchurch. Gloucester centre Henry Trinder, Bath winger Anthony Watson and Northampton Saints’ hero Alex Waller will also make their debuts.

Head coach Stuart Lancaster will want to trial some of the fringe players, as he looks to regain some pride in this series. New Zealand have an unassailable 2-0 lead with just one match to play, but will be missing centre Conrad Smith for Saturday’s game in Hamilton with a broken thumb.

‘Captain for the day’ Slater was one of Leicester’s best players last season, starting all but two matches for the Welford Road outfit. The 25-year-old has been nuisance for the opposition backs and forwards, with his physical presence and work-rate being highlighted as his main strengths.

Slater does not expect the changed squad to sit on their laurels however, and wants them to boost team morale ahead of the final Test on Saturday.

He told BBC Sport: “We’ve lost the last two games and this is a chance for us to lift the spirit in the camp. Our focus first and foremost is to play well as a team but we definitely need to get that win.”

Among the other starters for the game against the Crusaders is Sale Sharks fly-half Danny Cipriani, with Stephen Myler being left on the bench.

Cipriani has been in fine form for the Sharks in only his second season back in the English Premiership, after returning from a spell in Australia. The former Wasps man scored 143 points in 18 matches in the Aviva Premiership last season.

Yet, one surprise omission from the starting XV is Bath centre Kyle Eastmond, with some suggesting he could replace Billy Twelvetrees for the third and final Test at the weekend. Twelvetrees will miss the game with an ankle injury, but could not be the only one to miss the final match of series.

Saracens number ten Owen Farrell will have fitness tests on his knee, whilst his half-back partner Danny Care is struggling with the shoulder problem that forced him to miss the first Test. Luther Burrell is also a doubt for the match at the Waikato Stadium, suffering with a knock to his ankle.

While the All Blacks will be missing Smith, Malakai Fekitoa could take his place after starting from the bench in the first two Tests. Kieran Read could also return to his number eight, after recovering from a concussion, as Beauden Barrett looks set to start ahead of Aaron Cruden at fly-half for the hosts on Saturday.

Rugby World Cup winner selects squad to win football World Cup

Feet not hands, Mr Brown. (©GettyImages).

World Cup winner and England Coach Mike Catt has selected some of his squad who he thinks could perform well for the Three Lions in Brazil.

Unsurprisingly, Fly Half Owen Farrell was selected for the kicking duties if England needed someone to score a pressure penalty. Danny Care was also immediately picked by the former World Cup winner.

Care was scouted by Sheffield Wednesday when he was a youngster but when he was forced to make a decision between football and rugby, the scrum-half choose the latter.

Joe Marler was given a specific position by Catt, who thought that the Harlequins prop would make a good right back. The fight to see who will take over Joe Hart's goalkeeping jersey was the most contested position, with a straight shoot-out between Joe Launchbury and Courtney Lawes.

Catt had no hesitation in putting Mike Brown into the midfield to be a suitable replacement for Steven Gerrad because of the accuracy of his kicking. Unlike Gerrard, however, Catt suggested that Brown could also double up as a replacement goalkeeper.

George Ford was labelled by the former England player as a little Messi, which as any professional footballer will tell you is a hard expectation to live up to!

England are currently on tour in New Zealand, looking to gain revenge for the defeat at the hands of New Zealand in the Autumn. However, they lost to the All Blacks early on Saturday morning, and are now 2-0 down in the series.

Watch the video of Mike Catt making his selections below:

Saracens handed tough draw in European Champions Cup

Pool One has been dubbed 'The Group of Death'. (©GettyImages).

Heineken Cup and Premiership Final runners-up Saracens have been given a brutal draw in the newly styled European Rugby Champions Cup pool draw in Neuchatel, Switzerland today.

The top seeded 'tier one' side will come up against two-time Heineken Cup winners Munster, beaten semi-finalists Clermont and fellow English side Sale Sharks in the inaugural season of the tournament which is replacing the successful Heineken Cup.

The draw will see Saracens lock horns with Clermont yet again after losing to them in the quarter-finals of the 2012 tournament but thrashing the French powerhouse 46-6 in last year's semi-final. The Frenchmen themselves beat Munster the last time they met, creating a group full of grudge matches. 

Sale Sharks make up the ‘group of death’, and a side inspired by the resurgent Danny Cipriani will face a very tough challenge in their first appearance at Europe’s top level since 2012.

Elsewhere, Premiership champions Northampton Saints have an easier draw against Racing Metro, Ospreys and Benetton Treviso, while Leicester Tigers have been drawn against Heineken Cup winners Toulon, Ulster and Llanelli Scarlets in Pool Three.

London rivals London Wasps and Harlequins have been pitted against each other alongside Pro 12 champions Leinster and Castres. Bath, meanwhile, will face four-time champions Toulouse, Montpellier and Glasgow Warriors in Pool Four.

With the winner of each group and only the three best runner-ups from the five groups progressing to the quarter-finals, every game is a must win, especially in groups where each team has a chance of progressing.

Golfing World News - June 26

GW News: U.S. Open Champ Kaymer back on home turf.

Martin Kaymer makes his first playing appearance since his US Open win today at The BMW International Open. The tournament gets underway in Cologne, Germany, and this year’s venue is a mere 30 kilometres from where Kaymer grew up. As the first German US Open victor; he’s sure to receive a hero’s welcome.

The LPGA Tour’s finest are teeing up at the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship today. Michelle Wie will of course be looking to continue her fine form since the US Women’s Open victory, but the local crowds will be behind world no.1 Stacy Lewis as she returns to her second home fresh from her runner-up finish at the Women’s US Open. The event organisers have even had some ‘I Heart Stacy Lewis’ t-shirts made up for her loyal fans.

Away from the pro’s now, and amateurs from both sides of the Atlantic are this week competing in the Palmer Cup. The event takes place at Walton Heath Golf Club in Surrey this weekend and boasts an impressive alumni; including 2010 U.S. Open Champion, Graeme McDowell. With an almost identical format to the Ryder cup, European head coach Andrew Coltart believes it has an important place in the game.

SOT: Wonderful young kids, great young men incredibly enthusiastic and looking forward to what could be an incredible future for them in the game. They are all buzzing; it’s an incredible opportunity to come up against what arguably is one of the biggest rivalries in sport, the Americans. And they are all absolutely up for it and buzzing raring to go.

That’s all for today. In the meantime you can follow us on Twitter @golfingworldtv and we’re on Facebook and Instagram too. Thanks for watching.

Tiger Woods makes satisfactory return to golf

He's back (©GettyImages).

Tiger Woods faces a battle to make the halfway cut at the Quicken Loans National but he will be more than satisfied with his first competitive round since recovering from a microdiscectomy on his back. 

The 14-time major winner was dead last among the players in action at one point but three birdies in his final six holes rescued his round and he eventually carded a three-over 74 at Congressional. 

Late starters

Before the late starters went out, Woods sat in tied-94th - seven strokes adrift of the early leader Ricky Barnes who fired a four-under 67. 

Patrick Reed, a three-time PGA Tour winner who in the past has not been afraid to compare himself to Woods, was one back at minus three. 

The attention was solely on the returning former world number one, though, as fans turned out in good numbers to welcome the legendary golfer back after his 12-week absence following surgery on a pinched nerve in his lower back just before the Masters. 

Things did not go entirely to plan, however, as he opened with back-to-back bogeys at 10 and 11 - his first and second - before a birdie at the par-four 14th seemed to stem the tide.

It didn't, and he immediately gave that shot back before further bogeys at 17 and 18 saw him turn in four over. 

Although he appeared to be in good spirits and pain free, his score went from bad to worse on his inward nine when a bogey at two - his 11th - was followed by yet another at the par-four third. 

He does not have 14 major titles to his name and 79 PGA Tour wins out of sheer luck, though, and his final six holes provided his adoring followers with reasons to be optimistic that he may well make the weekend in Maryland. 

Solid start 

A solid approach into the fourth green set up a birdie opportunity which he made the most of by canning it, before his shot of the day at the par-three seventh set up a four-foot birdie putt which he rolled in to get back to plus four. 

A beautiful wedge shot into the eighth set up another birdie chance from a similar distance, which he again converted. His delighted following cheered as if it were 1997. 

A par at the ninth following an errant tee shot saw him in the clubhouse after day one at three over, for a round of 74 on his competitive return. 

Solid, if not spectacular, but his score was widely expected and is an indication that - although he unquestionably remains the sport's main attraction - fans are slowly beginning to accept he will never be the golfing powerhouse he was. 

Padraig Harrington blog: Irish Open review

Padraig takes a shot at last week's Irish Open .

It was great being back home playing in front of the Irish golf fans. When you are travelling around the world you forget how good it is to play in front of your own crowds. Last week over 100,000 fans turned out to watch the golf and at times when they roared it seemed like they were all in one place.

The Irish Open is always a special event for me but even more so this year as it was in my Dads hometown, Cork. I spent many summer holidays in Cork, so to play there was great. I would have liked to be more in the mix but then you can't have everything!

I finished in a tie for 14th after shooting rounds of 69, 67, 71, and 69 for a four round total of eight under par. It was certainly a week where I am walking away thinking that I could have been a lot better.

After my opening two rounds I was looking for a couple of better days over the weekend - whilst I shot two under in total it could well have been a lot better as I dropped a few sloppy shots and then missed a few chances. That said it was still a solid week and there were a lot of good signs in my play.

I could see a few things that I have to work on but I was happy to see that the work I have been doing over the last few weeks is starting to pay off. Coming into this week I was feeling that my game was in good shape.

I have been showing good signs over the last few weeks but I just haven't been finishing off tournaments. I haven't been putting four rounds together so shooting the scores I did this week was good progress. I am happy that my worst score for a round was level par as earlier in the year it would have been a few over.

In my third round, I got off to a bad start by hitting a poor iron shot into the water on the third that cost me a double bogey and then on the ninth I hit a really nice second shot that flew just a few yards too far and cost me a bogey, which was a good bogey in the end. However I finished well with two birdies in the last three holes to end up shooting level par. I lost a few spots but it was still a good battling round. Things weren't really going for me and I could easily have shot three or four over par.

My final round was something similar, I three putted the second and third for bogeys. What looked like could be another one of those days where you get off to a bad start and it doesn't get any better, turned out to be a decent day in the end. I battled back well and made five birdies to end up shooting two under par.

I have been struggling with my grip for a few weeks now, it just hasn't felt comfortable. On Tuesday I changed the grips on my clubs to see if that would help and after two holes I had to go back and change them again. I was a little better during the week but still not great and a little distracting at times, as I just couldn't get my hands comfortable.

When I look back at some of the poor shots that I hit I can see that I was distracted by my grip, which I will be working on this coming week while I am at home. It generally means that my left hand is a little strong. Considering how I was feeling with this I am very happy with how I performed and for the most part I did a good job of ignoring the distraction.

I was very happy to shoot 69 on Sunday. Not only was my grip annoying me, I also injured my neck before I went out. I was doing my warm up stretches and jarred it; it locked up and made any movement sore. I got plenty of treatment on it beforehand and it helped but it still wasn't 100%.

I could feel in my swing that I was opening up on all my shots, but whilst it felt bad it wasn't terrible in terms of results. I can see looking through the round where I bailed out of a few shots to protect it. However it held up well and I managed to get around in two under which I was very happy with. But, the sad thing about it was that my three dropped shots were nothing to do with my neck.

All in all it was decent week in terms of my performance. I am coming away happy, with a few things to work on in my week off. Firstly will be my grip and then I will be spending time on my routines and preparation, which was another area that I could see wasn't quite where it should be.

I really enjoyed the week in Cork; it's a pity that I couldn't give the crowds a bit more to shout about. My tee shot on the third hole on Saturday took a lot out of everyone. That said the crowds were great throughout the week, the reception I got when I walked onto the final green on Sunday was brilliant. It's just a pity I have to wait another year for it again.

Talk soon,
Padraig.

Tiger Woods misses the cut on his return to golf

Woods was seven-over-par over the first two days' play (©GettyImages).

This certainly wasn’t the way that Tiger Woods would have hoped his comeback would end after failing to make the cut on the PGA Tour.

Although few would have expected Woods to be a serious contender this week at the Quickens Loans National tournament, this can only be considered a disappointment.

Missed cut

Woods failed to make the cut and did not play over the weekend, in his comeback tournament since corrective surgery on a pinched nerve in his back.

The good news for him and golf fans, is that there were no evident repercussions of this complaint, but he is still a long way off top form on this evidence.

Woods finished four shots behind the three-over-par score required to ensure he would be playing on Saturday and Sunday.

Remaining positive

The 14-time major champion is staying positive, though. He says it was an encouraging display and that only a few known issues would have to be worked on again, before he was firing on all cylinders.

In-truth, most areas of his game will have to show a drastic upturn in standard if he is to be in contention at the year’s third major, the British Open, which starts in July.

He was hoping that playing in this tournament will be a major help for him in finding his optimum performance level ahead of the Open.

Major drought

It has been six years since Woods has won a major, the longest drought of his entire professional career, and as the time passes, it looks more unlikely he will catch Jack Nicklaus major-winning record of 18.

Woods has already missed the US Masters and the US Open this year, but he hadn’t originally intended to return until playing at Hoylake, so this performance should simply be considered a bonus as he looks to play his way back into form.

Taking too negative a view on his display over the last two days would be harsh, as there were some positive signs, mixed in with a considerable amount of errors.

He made three birdies today, but five dropped shots and a double bogey meant that the good play was virtually irrelevant, as he made a score of 75.

It was a similar story on the first day, where he shot a 74, and it meant that only 11 of the 120 players were below him in the standings after Thursday’s and Friday’s play.

Martin Kaymer prepares for hero's welcome at BMW International

Kaymer will be buoyed by home support this week at Gut Larchenhof (©GettyImages).

Martin Kaymer is set for a rousing reception this week as he makes his first appearance since claiming the US Open title at this week's BMW International Open in his home country of Germany. 

The 29-year-old double major champion romped to an eight-shot victory in the season's second major at Pinehurst No.2. nearly a fortnight ago, and now he will tee it up at Golf Club Gut Larchenhof hoping to make it two wins on the spin.

Kaymer, who also won the 2010 US PGA at Whistling Straits as well as last month's lucrative Players Championship title, has been submerged in media duties since that record-breaking victory in America two weeks ago and is now simply looking forward to playing golf again.

"I've done a lot of talking, a lot of interviews in the last 10 days, so I am looking forward to playing golf again," he told the official website of the European Tour.

"Obviously it's very normal if you've done something special, if you've won a major. People want to talk to you, and it's completely fine.

"Now I can handle it a lot better. In 2010 and the Ryder Cup, it was a little more difficult because I didn't really know what to expect. Now it's fine."

The Dusseldorf-born professional golfer spent three days in New York to reflect on his US Open feat - something he admitted sunk in a lot quicker than when he made his major breakthrough four years ago. 

"It was very nice, the two or three days after the US Open. I went to New York for three days, and I could reflect very quick, which was very surprising for me. 

"It was very satisfying and makes you proud. In the past, it took me a little bit, even after the US PGA Championship. But that win was a little bit different, so it was really nice to reflect right away and to understand what really happened."

Despite his age, Kaymer has completed a remarkable amount in his relatively short career and will unquestionably go down as an all-time great of the sport if he continues to play at the level has throughout 2014.

However, the German refuses to get ahead of himself and having missed the cut at this event two years ago, he believes expectations on him this week should be low.

He added: "Two years ago, I didn't even qualify for the weekend, so it's a tough week and the expectations, I think, should be low."

With the next major, the Open, following so soon after the last - it begins July 17 - Kaymer will want to make the most of this week, with a third major title well within his grasp at Hoylake next month. 

Golfing World News - June 30

GW News: Justin Rose wins QL National and European Tour playoff drama.

We start in Cologne, Germany. At the BMW International Open, where Paraguayan Fabrizio Zanotti triumphed in a spectacular playoff with Henrik Stenson, Rafa Cabrera-Bello and Gregory Havret on the 5th playoff hole.

With this win Zanotti became the first recorded winner from Paraguay on the European Tour.

Next we head to the PGA Tour, where England's very own Justin Rose clinched victory with a par on the first playoff hole against Shawn Stefani to win the Quicken Loans National. This is Justin's first win since his US Open Victory in 2013.

Now to the LPGA Tour, and the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship where, after coming runner up in the Women’s US Open at Pinehurst last week, Stacey Lewis captured her third victory this year with a total of 12 under par, one clear of rising star Lydia KO.

Finally we leave the professional game for the amateur game and head to Walton Heath Golf Club in Surrey and the Palmer Cup, playing almost the identical format to the Ryder Cup, Team Europe Captained by Andrew Coltart managed to capture 8 and half out of 10 points on the final day to beat their American counterparts 18 and a half to 11 and a half.

That’s all for now though, but join us again tomorrow. In the meantime follow us on Twitter @Golfingworldtv and we’re on Facebook and Instagram too, thanks for watching.

Manchester United in Portugal to complete Carvalho deal

Carvalho featured in Portugal's final group game against Ghana.

Manchester United are set to win the race for Portuguese international and Chelsea target William Carvalho with Old Trafford officials in Portugal to finalise the deal.

The Daily Mail cites reports in Portugal that claim United have dispatched a delegation to put the finishing touches on the transfer. Negotiations have been ongoing over a transfer fee, with Sporting Lisbon reportedly holding out for Carvalho's £37.5m release clause.

Competition for Carvalho

If they complete the deal, United will have beaten off competition from Chelsea and Monaco among others. Chelsea in particular were thought to be strong contenders for his signature, while Monaco had a £27m bid rejected earlier this summer.

Chelsea looked at Carvalho as an alternative to Paul Pogba, who has been heavily linked with a move away from the Serie A side. And Juventus themselves have scouted the 22-year-old midfielder on occasion, with Carvalho lined up as a potential replacement for Pogba should the Frenchman move.

Real Madrid are another team also mentioned as a possible destination for the talented midfielder.

Jorge Mendes

Carvalho is represented by Jorge Mendes, the Portuguese agent who has worked closely with United on transfer before. He played a role in bringing Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani to Old Trafford. Like Carvalho, both played at Sporting Lisbon.

He also represented Bebe and Anderson, and helped to broker the move that brought Jose Mourinho to the Premier League from Chelsea.

Alternatives to Carvalho

Having completed deals to sign Luke Shaw and Ander Herrera, United have wasted little time in strengthening the squad for incoming boss Louis Van Gaal. Despite the addition of Herrera, the club remains keen to sign another defensively minded midfielder and Carvalho was one of several options.

With a transfer reportedly close, it's safe to assume United will end their interest in the likes of Toni Kroos and Sami Khedira, two players who have been heavily linked with United in the recent past.

What to expect...

Alastair Cook is victim of witch hunt says Essex coach

Cook cuts an isolated figure as he bears the brunt of England's misfortunes (©GettyImages).

Essex coach Paul Grayson has given his backing to under-fire England captain Alastair Cook.

Having impressed for the Chelmsford outfit in the early part of the County Championship season, Cook departed for Three Lions duty in the ODIs and Test series’ against Sri Lanka, but has since become the victim of what Grayson describes as a “witch-hunt”.

Poor form

Defeat in the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at Headingley was England’s sixth from seven games, but Cook’s Essex boss insists the batsman has become a scapegoat for the side’s poor form.

Despite skippering England to a resounding Ashes success last summer, Cook’s fortunes have taken something of a downturn. However, though his leadership has been called into question following the 5-0 humiliation in Australia, he has had to contend with the losses of Kevin Pietersen, Jonathan Trott, and Graeme Swann, all of whom played key roles in England’s initial success.

Close call

Evidently, the side are going through a transitional period. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the strain of captaincy appears to have had an impact on Cook’s form, and he has averaged just 25 in his past 24 Test innings.

Indeed, his task has been made all the more difficult by a barrage of outside criticism, including from England legend Geoffrey Boycott, who claimed Cook’s recent batting statistics were a “recipe for resignation”.

Criticism

Former Aussie spinner Shane Warne has also labelled Cook’s cautious approach to captaincy as boring, and has continued his attack on his one-time Ashes nemesis by imploring him to stand down from the role.

“On Monday at Headingley I witnessed the worst day of captaincy I have ever seen at international level in almost 25 years in the game”, said Warne.

Warne has led the calls for Cook’s resignation, but the skipper has finally been offered some support, with Grayson insisting he should be allowed some time away from his duties to see his family, rather than undertake more intensive work in the nets to improve his game.

Backing

"He'll be aware that he's made a few mistakes, but it's the responsibility of the group, the senior players, to get England out of a tricky hole," said Grayson.

"I know Cookie has given his heart and soul to Essex and England over the last 10 years. He's a rock solid bloke and he'll come back strong from this."

The Sri Lanka series just managed to slip out of England’s grasp; Peter Moores’ men were one wicket away from victory in the first Test, before losing the second with just two balls to go. Had those outcomes been different, Cook would have found himself under far less pressure.

Comeback

As it stands, though, the India series could now be make or break, not only for England’s summer, but for Cook’s personal status. There is little respite, with the first Test getting underway in less than two weeks.

If Cook is to turn the corner, he must work past what he has described as “personal” attacks from those outside of his camp, and focus on getting England back to winning ways.

Gloucestershire injuries enforce schoolboy selection

Injury to Geraint Jones signalled a premature return to Kent, opening the door for the youngster's debut (©GettyImages).

A long line of injuries behind the stumps backed Gloucestershire into having to call up a teenage schoolboy to play in their County Championship Division Two tie with Glamorgan at Bristol.

Patrick Grieshaber was the 17-year-old entrusted with the gloves, due to the fact that three of the side’s wicketkeepers are currently sidelined with injury.

This great opportunity for the teenager is likely to be one he cherishes forever. However, he isn’t even the youngest player in his position to have played first-class cricket in England.

That accolade still rests with Barney Gibson of Yorkshire, who – in 2011 – made his debut at the tender age of 15 years and 27 days against Durham MCCU.

The absences of Gareth Roderick and Cameron Herring already prompted the West Country county to enlist the services of Geraint Jones, who joined the club on loan from Kent in May.

The Ashes winner played in three four-day games for Gloucestershire, scoring 136 runs and claiming six catches. In addition, Jones played two T20 Blast contests, which yielded 50 runs from the diminutive batsman.

However an eye problem – consisting of a build-up of fluid behind the retina – forced him to return East again.

That opened the door for Herring to make the leap from the second XI, but a finger injury prevented the 19-year-old from filling in. Instead, the privilege was handed down to academy player, Grieshaber.

On his debut, the wicketkeeper batted at number nine, and spent nearly an hour at the crease during his maiden first-class outing.

Two boundaries during his 44-ball stay helped him to reach 10, before James Allenby caught him off the bowling of Dean Cosker.

That wicket almost signalled the culmination of the home side’s innings – Gloucestershire went on to add another 30 runs as they were all out for 391.

In hindsight, it appears as though that was something of a below-par score with the bat. By the close of play on day three, Glamorgan had progressed along to 569-7.

Grieshaber’s wait for a first dismissal goes on, and it could be a while before he is handed such a worthwhile experience.

Gloucestershire are expected to look to acquire another wicketkeeper on a short-term loan, with Herring and Roderick both out for several weeks more still.

Hamish Marshall’s side currently sit sixth in Division Two of the County Championship, but the hunt for promotion seems futile as they are already 58 points behind second-placed Worcestershire.

English cricket club side all out for three runs

Wirral's bails were regularly scattered on the floor as they posted 3-10 (©GettyImages).

Ever felt like you’ve had a poor day in the nets? Well by reading this, you’ll find yourself somewhat comforted by learning the tale of how an English club cricket side were bowled out for just three runs - and two of those came courtesy of leg byes.

A collectors’ item scorecard was produced during a Cheshire League game between Haslington and Wirral when the latter were almost skittled for a world record-equalling low score. That honour still belongs to Somerset side, Langport, who were bowled out without scoring against Glastonbury in 1913.

To put it into context, the lowest ever Test innings was just 26, made by New Zealand in 1955 against England.

The Wirral batsmen certainly had a bad day at the office, with the first ten to the crease all being dismissed for ducks. Tailender, Connor Hobson, was the only member of the side to score a run - just a solitary one not-out - whilst two leg byes helped triple the team’s total.

Batting second in the match meant that their opponents were able to get some decent practice in the middle. Haslington scored 108 runs in the Division Three contest, and only needed two bowlers to carry them to victory.

Ben Istead claimed six wickets, whilst Tom Gledhill cleaned up the rest without conceding a single run. Eight men had taken the long trundle off of the pitch by the time that the left-hand side of the scoreboard finally ticked over.

This calamitous innings comes at a time when run rates have continued to soar through the roof as T20 cricket becomes more of an established format of the game. India and Australia’s One Day series at the back end of 2013 possessed an unprecedented number of scores over 300, yet Wirral used 10 overs to complete their final innings post of 3-10.

After recording this infamously low score, the club showed a much-needed sense of humour when they tweeted news of the game, stating: "1st XI lost by 105 runs today... Sadly the opposition only scored 108!"

In addition to informing the Twittersphere of their lacklustre performance, @Wirral_CC also wrote to several high profile names in an attempt to secure some world class coaching for their batting line-up.

Michael Vaughan, David Lloyd and Andrew Flintoff were among those approached, meanwhile Piers Morgan turned down the opportunity to turn out for Wirral - despite the promise of the best tea in the league - claiming that his form was too good for them.

Top 5: Players deserving an England Test recall

Peter Moores' return could pave the way for further England recalls (©GettyImages).

England’s transformation from the number one Test nation in the world to being trounced 5-0 by the Aussies down under has been hard to come to terms with.

A consistent starting XI that picked itself has been brought into question and the revolving door of the dressing room hasn’t made that transition any easier to bear.

A plethora of new Test caps have been awarded whilst England have experimented and searched for a new direction.

Now, Peter Moores has returned to the fold to assist captain, Alistair Cook.

Moores’ second stint in charge could see him offer reprieves to international representatives who have fallen out of favour in recent times.

Sometimes taking one step back can help facilitate a leap forward.

Some players who have failed in their previous England ventures could be in store for a second shot at Test cricket, providing they can prove themselves in the County Championship once again.

Plenty of names have yet to be permanently inked onto the England team sheet, meaning that there could be plenty of opportunities for players to either make their debuts - or long-awaited returns to the international stage.

Here is a countdown of five players who have either impressed in their previous performances for England, or who deserve a second chance to assert themselves in Test cricket.

Brian Lara to play in Lord’s bicentennial match

Lara holds the record for the highest individual score (400*) in a Test match innings (©GettyImages).

Iconic West Indian batsman, Brian Lara, is set to return to the home of cricket when he represents Marylebone Cricket Club in their match against a Rest of the World side at Lord’s on July 5.

The left-handed legend has recently been added to the star-studded roster of players that will take to the outfield in St John’s Wood to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Lord’s Cricket Ground.

Lara, who broke the world record for the highest individual Test score just over a decade ago, joins former teammate, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, in the MCC squad.

Sachin Tendulkar will captain the MCC and he will shake hands with opposing captain, Shane Warne, prior to the coin toss. On paper, some of the best names from the last 20 years of cricket will be on display.

For the diminutive master, it will be the second time that he has played at Lord’s in a match of this calibre. Back in 1998, he captained a Rest of the World team that participated in a memorial match for Diana, Princess of Wales.

Even the coaching staffs will include world-class cricketers. Mike Gatting and Shaun Pollock will oversee the preparations of the MCC and Rest of the World teams respectively.

The match will memorialise the 200 celebrated years that Lord’s has experienced in its current location. However, prior to arriving in St John’s Wood in 1814, the ground had previously been represented at two other venues.

In that time it can be argued that the game has changed, although still hung tightly to the traditions that define the sport.

For the MCC, they have a different role to what they did a couple of hundred years ago, but they remain the custodians of the laws of the game. This magnificent match-up involving some of the very best players in the world will emphasise their continued position in cricket.

Other players who will represent the MCC include Rahul Dravid, Umar Gul, Brett Lee and Daniel Vettori.

For the Rest of the World, the likes of Shahid Afridi, Adam Gilchrist, Muttiah Muralitharan, Virender Sehwag and Yuvraj Singh will all be on display.

English interest will be maintained with the involvement of Kevin Pietersen, Paul Collingwood and Chris Read – the latter will play against the Ashes winners for the MCC.

Last month, a similar women’s fixture was hosted at Lord’s. Charlotte Edwards captained a losing MCC women’s side against a Rest of the World XI.

Shoaib Akhtar and the 100mph delivery

The Pace Merchant: Shoaib Akhtar (©GettyImages).

Playing in adult league cricket can sometimes offer you an insight into the view of the top players in the world. Facing someone who bowls at a speed which you aren’t comfortable with, can make you feel as scared as anything. A ball whizzing past your helmet, because the quickest bowlers never pitch it up, offers you the chance to see your life flashing before your eyes.

But, despite all the talk and bravado you might give afterwards, you know that the pace wasn’t really that quick compared to what ‘proper’ cricketers will face...

12 years ago last week, Shoaib Akhtar became the first man to break the 100mph barrier. 100mph. 100mph! Let’s put that in context, this means that the ball will go across the 22 yards of the pitch in what is basically the blink of an eye. You would have twice the time of a 100mph delivery in cricket to return Andy Roddick’s serve.

Bowling to Craig McMillan (I pity the man who had to face this thunderbolt), Akhtar was clocked at 160.0 kph, the equivalent of 100.4mph. A feat which shook the world of cricket, as people feared the latest revolution in unimaginably quick bowlers.

This hasn’t really come to fruition, which is good news for the batsmen and bad news for the helmet manufacturers. Mitchell Johnson, I hear you say. Yes, he bowls quickly. But only on the very odd occasion, during this winter’s Ashes, did he surpass 150kph, and never by more than 1kph.

Alastair Cook will prove he is a great captain

Cook stares as Sri Lanka celebrate (©GettyImages).

Oodles of critics and a handful in support, this, unfortunately is the situation of the England captain Alastair Cook. After England suffered yet another defeat, though a heartbreaking one on this occasion, Cook's critics woke up once again to simply put all the blame on the skipper.

It seems that the whole of England has developed a penchant for blaming Cook for every loss whatsoever. May it be TMS, may be it be just another England fan, everyone has an obvious answer and a reason for the mess is Cook.

Misplaced blame

Doesn't it all look like blaming the principal of a school alone if a student fails? Almost every cricket expert has simply termed Cook as responsible for every loss whatsoever which is utter rubbish in my view.

If a team wins, then it is because of every single player present in there and it loses because of the very gentlemen. This is the way it goes I am afraid as cricket is a team game not a one-player sport. Though, as people have found it tough understanding the simple point, Cook has had to cop a hell lot of opprobrium despite him being not the sole reason for such a horrible time for the English game. 

Sack the captain they say; isn't it more like taking a pill for a headache when you are actually suffering a fracture? In other words, Cook's sacking as a captain isn't the solution as his captaincy isn't the problem.

A team in transistion

Ask a captain who has lost Kevin Pietersen, Jonathan Trott and Graeme Swann at one point of time and you will get the answer as to what kind of a phase the Essex man is going through.

Just imagine for one moment you are Cook. Now you are struggling with your batting, focusing on younger players' batting, your senior players aren't firing, the team is losing and you are being criticised.

So many problems at a moment just about explains the English opener's agony. I'd again say that sacking him isn't the solution. Have the other seniors (apart from Stuart Broad) Matt Prior and Jimmy Anderson (stunning effort the other night though) fired lately? No, of course, and still the golden boy has been held the only one responsible. As the other big names of the team haven't been in form, Cook's woes have only increased. 

The solution to this is that (1). The other doyens start firing, and (2). Cook strikes form as soon as possible. Obviously, Cook has been enduring a dip in form over the past year or so averaging just a shade under 26, a number, which, if doubled is the average of the very man back in his good days.

Runs with the bat

Of course, he's a batsman first and then a leader. It is often seen that if captain is struggling with his bat, he'll be struggling with his captaincy too. Cook is no exception as his leadership skills have only suffered because of his woes with the bat as these two things complement each other.

The time the Cook comes back in form, his captaincy will be worth watching as then, he won't be worrying about his half as much and the whole team will automatically step up as a skipper's good form inspires his team to do well too.

At the same time, the fans too need to be a bit patient (as I am) and stop firing Cook with bullets after bullets and rather speak a few inspirational words with their maws. I'm talking about being patient because this a re-building phase and at least a little amount of pain has to be taken before the fortunes turn around.

Having said that, I'd again warn the team about the "new era" and re-building mentality (which gives a sense of security). Focusing on the cricketing reasons of why a match was lost will do a lot good instead of using this new era as an excuse for defeat.

The right man

All in all, Cook is, was and will be the right man to lead England out of this mess. Despite being forced by so many to resign as captain and having been crucified way too much, the Essex lad is still determined to turn it around and restore the pride for the nation.

It's just his form with the bat that needs to be back and the rest will take care of itself. Every captain has had his bad times and good times. Cook gave England so many glories to gasconade of in his early days  and everyone was in his favour but the fortunes just turned.

But mind you, they'll turn around again, and they will turn for Cook to become, mirabile dictu, the King of the English Jungle. Cook will for sure be a great captain, just a matter of time before times change.. 

Brian Lara left stumped by Miss Scotland

Brian Lara has been hit for six by the stunner. (©GettyImages).

Cricket legend Brian Lara has never had a problem hitting sixes, but since retirement, he's caught a perfect 10.

The Daily Mail reports that the former West Indies captain, Lara has announced that he is dating the current Miss Scotland, Jamey Bowers, who at 24 is 20 years younger than the cricketing legend.

The couple were introduced to each other by Trinidad and Tobago legend and former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke.

Lara is considered one of the greatest batsmen to play the game, propelling his West Indies team to be one of the best nations around during his playing days.

A frequent record breaker, Lara holds the record for the highest individual score in first class cricket. In 1994, he scored 501 not out for Warwickshire.

The former batsmen is described by his new beau as being "charming, romantic and fun".

Whilst the batsmen never had an problem with the bat, it looks like his catching ability is just as strong. 

Narayanaswami Srinivasan selected as ICC chairman

Srinivasan's appointment has been met with disdain in many quarters (©GettyImages).

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has appointed Narayanaswami Srinivasan as its new chairman, in one of its most divisive decisions yet, according to BBC Sport.

It also marks a remarkable turn in fortunes for Srinivasan, just three months after he was suspended from his post as chairman of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He faces corruption charges relating to illegal betting in the 2013 season of the Indian Premier League.

However, since it was the Indian Supreme Court that insisted the 69-year-old step down from the BCCI, the body itself has congratulated him on his new position, after he was voted in unanimously. Regardless of the ongoing investigations into his activities, he is undoubtedly a hugely influential figure, particularly in India, where he owns Chennai Super Kings.

His son-in-law, Gurunath Meiyappan, was arrested last year after accusations of suspect betting on IPL matches. Nonetheless, the ICC appear convinced by Srinivasan’s pleas that there has been “no wrongdoing on (his) part”.

- Alastair Cook will prove he is a great captain
- T20 Blast set for crucial clashes in the North and South groups

After initially being nominated in February, his unveiling follows an ICC annual conference, and appears to have found very little support. That the ICC is willing to take a chance on a man allegedly connected with spot-fixing is difficult to stomach, and has led to new fears of an agenda by the game’s elites. Mustafa Kamal of Bangladesh has also been elected ICC president.

The board’s latest shake-up has important consequences for the structures of international cricket. New plans, which were confirmed with Srinivasan’s appointment, aim to give power to the ‘Big Three’ of England, India, and Australia.

Wally Edwards of Cricket Australia will lead a new executive committee, while Giles Clarke of the England and Wales Cricket Board has been placed in charge of the financial and commercial affairs committee.

Pakistan and South Africa’s cricket boards have been particularly angered by the latest changes to the game’s governing body, as they are set to become increasingly marginalised. Although the ICC’s profits are to be reorganised in an attempt to make their distribution fairer, the Big Three will still get the biggest proportions of funds.

South Africa are perhaps the biggest losers: the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed it was awarded the fourth largest share of revenue, in spite of the numerous scandals that have rocked it in the last decade. At present, Pakistan are not even able to host matches because of terrorist threats within the country.

Unsurprisingly, the cricket boards of the leading three powers have been behind the reforms, in what can only be seen as a thinly-veiled attempt at establishing an even greater monopoly.

Lukas Podolski out of Germany-Algeria clash

Podolski in action in Germany's last match against the USA. (©GettyImages).

Joachim Low will be without Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski for Germany's last 16 tie against Algeria. 

The 29 year old has been forced out of the next match with a leg injury and the manager has claimed that although it was possible for him to feature in the game, it would be a 'big risk'.

Later games

No details have been released regarding the extent of the injury but according to NBC Sport, Low has the forward in his plans for later games if they progress.

Podolski came off at half-time in the most recent game against the United States, which finished 1-0 to Germany thanks to an effort from Thomas Muller.

This was the second time the Gunners' man has appeared at this World Cup so far after surviving only eight minutes in the opening game against Portugal. 

Despite his lack of game time so far, Podolski is highly rated and will be missed as a striking option against the strong defensive unit of Algeria, who progressed with Belgium past Russia and South Korea in Group H.

Good record

In his international career, the Polish-born striker has scored 47 goals from 116 appearances - five of those in the Wolrd Cup - and he has bags of experience in major tournaments. This is his third World Cup, a long with three trips to the European Championships. Behind Miroslav Klose and Lothar Matthaus, he is the third most capped player in history. 

His strike partner, Muller, is currently among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot along with Lionel Messi, James Rodriguez and Neymar, whose Brazil side is into the quarter-finals after beating Chile in a penalty shoot out.

Previous history

The last time the Germans won the World Cup was back in 1990 after they beat Argentina 1-0 in what was a repeat of the previous final, and they avenged a 3-2 defeat. In 2002 they came close to winning but they were beaten 2-0 by Brazil.

With the tournament now taking place in Brazil, and with the teams scheduled to meet each other in the final, this would be the perfect revenge for Low's side. 

However, although they are the third favourites, they may struggle as a lot of other European countries have been finding it difficult to cope with the climate whilst the South American sides have thrived. Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay and Colombia have all made the knock-out stages and their neighbouring continent, CONCAF, have had similar success with the USA, Mexico and Costa Rica all progressing.

Squad depth

But as far as the depth of the squad is concerned, Germany have very few problems at the moment. Jerome Boateng has been reported with a slight strain but this will not rule him out of the next game.  

Arsenal planning £44m bid for Arturo Vidal

Vidal has brilliant technique..

Juventus are preparing themselves for mega-bids from two Premier League sides for star-midfielder Arturo Vidal, who is currently in Brazil representing Chile, at the World Cup.

The Daily Star report that both Arsenal and Manchester United are ready to make mega-bids for the Chilean, with The Gunners even tempted to break their transfer record fee by bidding up to £44million for the 27-year-old.

Arsene Wenger is set to be very active this Summer in order to strengthen the side that ended the club's nine-year trophy drought, and a holding-midfielder is high on his list, with Mathieu Flamini and Mikel Arteta nearing the end of their careers, and Abou Diaby still struggling with constant injuries.

It's been reported that Wenger is keen on bringing in five new faces to the Emirates Stadium, with a new goalkeeper, right-back, holding-midfielder and two strikers on the wishlist, and after being linked to numerous players, it looks like Vidal is the man Wenger wants.

Previously, the club had been linked with Bayer Leverkusen's Lars Bender, and also Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin, but with Wenger desperate to show fans that he is prepared to spend money yet again, a big-summer spending spree could be on the cards, with Vidal the starting point.

However, Arsenal won't get a clean run at the Chilean midfielder, as Manchester United and Louis Van Gaal are also preparing to make a Summer bid for him, but are believed to be only offering around £33m, which is £11m less than their Premier League rivals.

Things are changing at Old Trafford, with several signings expected to join the club this Summer, but over the last 12-months, they have already spent a whopping £129m, by signing Marouane Fellaini and Juan Mata last season, and already completing the signings of Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw this Summer.

It's believed that Van Gaal will have £200m to spend in this transfer market to help United get back to their best, after a dismal season, and Vidal could be his third signing already, but they may have to up their offer, especially if Arsenal are keen as well.

Both English sides have been given a boost in the race for Vidal as he has told SkyItalia that his future may be away from Juventus.

"Will I stay at Juventus? I do not know," he told Sky Italia.

"I just think about the World Cup and the national team now.

"After the World Cup we will see what will be my future."

Netherlands strike late to beat Mexico

Huntelaar scored and assisted after 75th minute introduction (©GettyImages).

Mexico’s World Cup dreams were shattered in the most brutal way possible after a late, late fightback from the Netherlands ensured it was they who advance to the quarter-finals thanks to substitute Klaas-Jan Huntelaar’s 94th minute penalty.

It was a cruel end to the tournament for the Mexicans, who led the game 1-0 on 88 minutes. But, it was a defeat that means for the sixth consecutive time, they are out of the World Cup at the last 16 stage.

Van Persie return

Robin van Persie returned to the Oranje’s starting XI after missing their Group B decider against Chile, and was joined by the in-form Arjen Robben up front. Nigel de Jong, who has been a rock in the middle of the park for the Dutch thus far, limped off after just ten minutes of the match.

In the sweltering heat of Fortaleza, Mexico took the initiative from the off and looked to test the Dutch goalkeeper at every opportunity.

Following a dominant 45 minutes in which they didn't create all that much, Giovani Dos Santos gave Mexico the lead early in the second half with a superb strike into the bottom corner from 20-yards out. Jasper Cillessen had no chance of saving it in the Holland net.

Tough conditions

As the clock ticked down, it looked like the game was slipping away from Louis van Gaal’s side as they laboured in the sweltering conditions and failed to create any clear-cut chances.

But Van Gaal bravely substituted star man Van Persie, who was anonymous for most of the match, and brought on the forgotten man Huntelaar - it proved to be the game-changer.

With five minutes left the Schalke forward met an in-swinging corner with his head and knocked it back to the edge of the box, where Wesley Sneijder was waiting to pounce. The Galatasaray man drilled the ball into the bottom corner emphatically.

Late strike

The match looked certain to be going extra-time, but with six additional minutes added on to the 90, the Netherlands sensed blood and a chance to reach the quarter-finals without an extra 30 minutes.

Robben went on one of his mazy runs into Mexico’s penalty area and their captain Rafael Marquez foolishly left a leg out for the Bayern Munich man to take full advantage of - he duly went over and won his side a 94th minute penalty.

Huntelaar, who has spent 346 minutes on the bench for the Dutch so far in this tournament, stepped up confidently and smashed home the late winner from the penalty spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.

Van Gaal masterstroke

Another Van Gaal masterstroke earned the Dutch an invaluable win and saved them the torture of playing another 30 minutes in the humid conditions. It was the third time in four games that the Netherlands have come back from behind to win and the second time that it has been one of Van Gaal's super-subs that got the winning goal.

The Manchester United manager certainly has the knack for winning games and to win them in 'Fergie time' won't do his reputation any harm ahead of his big move to Old Trafford after the tournament in Brazil.

Van Gaal brings a huge reputation with him to Old Trafford after David Moyes failed to live up to the expectation and hype left in the wake of Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement, and the continued progress of the Dutch will continue to set the pulses of Red Devils fans racing.

Luis Suarez and his bite victims

Suarez shows the teeth at the centre of his latest ban (©GettyImages).

Luis Suarez knows just how to court controversy. The Uruguayan has, once again, been handed with a lengthy ban after biting his opponent.

On three occasions now during his controversial career, Suarez has sink his teeth into another player, and FIFA acted swiftly to ban him following the latest incident in the World Cup.

Suarez will miss nine matches and is also suspended from any football activity for a four month period given the severity of the clash with Giorgio Chiellini.

Here's a look at his biting victims in more detail...

Want to see more? Click the 'begin slideshow' button below to view the rest of the list...

Manchester United set to sign Stefan de Vrij

Stefan de Vrij is set to join Manchester United.

Manchester United have agreed a fee with Feyenoord for the transfer of Dutch defender Stefan de Vrij. Reports suggest that the 22-year-old will become the third player to arrive at Old Trafford since Louis van Gaal was appointed manager, following the recent acquisitions of Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw.

According to talkSPORT, who cite Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport, De Vrij will cost the Red Devils around £8 million. Serie A outfit Lazio had been close to signing the centre-back, but the move eventually fell through.

Van Gaal bolsters his defence

Securing a new centre-back was one of Van Gaal’s top priorities on arrival at Old Trafford. The departures of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic have left a gaping hole in United’s back-line, but De Vrij will come to provide competition for a first-team spot alongside Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans.

Despite De Vrij’s expected arrival, Van Gaal is expected to sign a more experienced centre-half ahead of the 2014/15 campaign. Borussia Dortmund’s Mats Hummels is United’s number one defensive target, but a deal for the Germany international is a long way off at this moment in time.

- Manchester United eye Stefan de Vrij bid
- Stefan de Vrij among names on Van Gaal's Man Utd wish-list
- Stefan de Vrij confirms he'll leave Feyenoord

United continue to spend

It’s clear that Manchester United mean business. Last season’s abject failure appears to have spurred on the club’s hierarchy to avoid repeating the same mistakes as last summer, when their top transfer targets ended up moving to other clubs.

Spanish midfielder Herrera completed a €36 million transfer from Athletic Bilbao to Old Trafford last Thursday, while England international Shaw followed a day later, completing a £27 million transfer from Southampton.

De Vrij’s signing with bring United’s total summer spend to roughly £63 million. But at least one or two big-name players are expected to arrive before the transfer window closes on September 2.

Man Utd fans: to watch De Vrij in action, click play on the video below…

Thomas Vermaelen agrees in principle £11m move to Manchester United

Vermaelen's terrible luck with injuries has continued at the World Cup.

Manchester United have agreed in principle a financial package to make Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen their third summer signing, with the Daily Star reporting that the Gunners are now the only obstacle to a deal which is thought to be worth around £11m.

United boss Louis van Gaal has identified Vermaelen as a player he thinks can help United shore up a central defensive area desperately short of quality cover thanks to the exits of veteran duo Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, but have so far been met with stubborn resistance by Arsenal.

Vermaelen has been forced to play second fiddle to centre-back pair Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny over the last 18 months thanks to a combination of bad luck with injuries and a loss of form, although that doesn't mean Wenger is prepared to let another of his stars join a direct Premier League rivals this summer.

Man United must not cave in to Arsenal's £12m transfer demands

Former Arsenal star working on deal to reunite at Man United

Fierce negotiations

Wenger has already flatly refused to entertain a £6m bid for his captain from United in the last fortnight, but has a tough decision to make as Vermaelen's current contract at the Emirates has just 12 months left to run.

Vermaelen was restricted to 14 Premier League appearances last season and looked mildly embarrassed to lift the FA Cup last season after failing to feature in the Wembley showpiece against Hull City, an act which could now be his last as an Arsenal player.

Arsenal have far from given hope of persuading the star to stay put and even potentially sign a new contract, but the lure of a fresh challenge and more prominent role under Van Gaal could well be too strong.

United mean business

Despite Van Gaal being busy with World Cup commitments United have completed summer business amounting to more than £50m over the last 48 hours, completing the double signing of Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw.

United have targeted a third piece of the puzzle and want a new defensive linchpin with experience to help the likes of Phil Jones and Chris Smalling develop and know they have fierce competition for a starting spot, but the deal will cost them at least £11m.

That's the price tag that Arsenal have set and is yet to be met, which means Vermaelen faces a waiting game to see tentative early talks produce the move his career well need this summer, however painful it may be for the Belgian defender to join another former Gunners captain in Robin van Persie at Old Trafford.

Arturo Vidal to receive £230,000-a-week Manchester United contract

Arturo Vidal on his way to Old Trafford?.

Manchester United look set to beat Arsenal to the £30 million signature of Arturo Vidal with the Premier League giants ready to offer the Juventus midfielder a whopping £230,000-a-week contract.

The Metro reports how the Red Devils are looking to follow up the capture of Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw by adding number one target Vidal to their ranks this summer.

- Arturo Vidal still high on Van Gaal's agenda
- Arsenal to bid £44m for world class Manchester United target
- Arsenal & Man United on radar of five stars who want big-money move

Louis van Gaal is determined to bring the Chile international to Old Trafford, and will hand the 27-year-old a lucrative five-year deal to quit the Serie 'A' giants.

Vidal recently intimated that he would never join a club that wasn't in the Champions League, but it looks as though he might've had a change of heart, given the fact that Manchester United finished in a lowly seventh place in the table in 2013/14, failing to even qualify for the Europa League.

Arsenal interest

Arsene Wenger has also been mentioned as an admirer of the South American playmaker, but Arsenal are unlikely to compete with the huge wages on offer at Manchester United, so the chances of a switch to the Emirates Stadium appear increasingly slim.

The Gunners boss recently confirmed his admiration for the former Bayer Leverkusen man, but is believed to be focusing on other - more realistic - transfer targets ahead of the new campaign.

World Cup impression

Vidal has seen his stock continue to rise after a number of impressive performances for his country at the World Cup this summer. However, those inspiring displays were in vain as Jorge Sampaoli's side crashed out of the tournament on Saturday, losing to host nation Brazil on penalties in the last 16.

Still, the prospect of seeing Vidal in the Premier League next season is sure to excite supporters up and down the country, and he could be followed by compatriot Alexis Sanchez who looks set to leave Barcelona before the close of the transfer window.

Chelsea want Paul Pogba for £60m

Pogba will cost £60m.

Chelsea are weighing up a £60million move to bring Paul Pogba to the club, according to reports.

The Daily Mail claims Blues boss Jose Mourinho is a big admirer of the French international, who would come with a significant Financial Fair Play benefit if lured back to England.

United past

Pogba spent time at the Manchester United academy as a youngster, and despite failing to break into the first team under Sir Alex Ferguson, would count as a ‘home-grown’ player if brought back to the Premier League.

And, reports on Friday claimed Chelsea would be willing to at least match their top earners with a contract in the region of £180,000-a-week.

Despite his undoubted talent, Pogba and Ferguson never appeared to be working in sync, and when the French international left Old Trafford, he was happy to point the finger at the Scot.

Fergie falling out

"It was all down to Ferguson. I didn’t want to sign a contract as Ferguson didn’t play me, even though there were no midfielders there,” he told The Times back in 2013.

"He obviously thought I didn’t deserve the contract I asked for and didn’t put me in the Manchester United team even though he had no midfield players, it was his choice.”

Despite the previous friction, Manchester United are interested in re-signing Pogba in the summer transfer window, according to the report, with Ferguson now gone and Louis van Gaal at the helm. However, the Red Devils are not willing to pay the huge fee for the Juventus playmaker.

FFP advantage

Chelsea have already taken advantage of the Financial Fair Play rules, signing Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona - another player who spent time at a Premier League academy as a youngster.

The Blues now have a plethora of options in midfield, with the most-recent Spanish signing joining Eden Hazard, Oscar, Ramires, Nemanja Matic and more at Stamford Bridge.

Pogba would be the biggest signing of them all, and at £60million the most expensive by a significant margin. It remains to be seen if the Chelsea boss can lure Pogba to west London over the next couple of months, but his arrival would be a major coup for the club ahead of next season's crack at the title.

888poker terminate sponsorship with Luis Suarez

Suarez shows the teeth at the centre of his latest ban (©GettyImages).

Luis Suarez has lost his first major sponsorship deal since his World Cup biting shame.

Online bookmaker 888poker confirmed they have terminated  the Liverpool striker's contract after he was slapped with a four month ban from all footballing activity, following the incident with Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini.

In a statement released the betting firm said: "888poker signed Luis Suarez following a fantastic season for which his achievements were widely recognized."

"Regrettably, following his actions during Uruguay’s World Cup match against Italy on Tuesday, 888poker has decided to terminate its relationship with Luis Suarez with immediate effect."

Adidas, who also sponsor the striker, announced on Thursday that they fully supported FIFA's decision to ban the Uruguayan.

The German sportswear giants also confirmed they will not be using Suarez for any additional marketing campaign during the remainder of the tournament in Brazil.

However they have once again refused to terminate his contract, instead they would remind him of "the standards we expect of our players."

The 27-year-old will now miss Uruguay's last-16 game against Columbia on Saturday. The president of the Uruguayan FA Wilmar Valdez has confirmed they will be appealing the ban.

He told local media: "‘We are preparing our appeal to present to FIFA in the next few hours. It’s an extremely excessive punishment, there was not enough evidence and I have seen more aggressive incidents. It feels like Uruguay have been thrown out of the Word Cup."

As Suarez returned home, hundred of fans flocked to Carrasco International airport to show their support for the star of the national team.

Novak Djokovic admits he and Rafael Nadal aren't good friends

Respectful but not friends.

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have formed arguably one of tennis' greatest ever rivalries on-court, and it seems as though they aren't the best of friends off it either.

Both men have reached a second week at Roland Garros and many will hope that the pair will meet in another epic final.

If they do meet in the Paris showdown on Sunday, the handshakes before and after the contest for the cameras won't necessarily have any deeper meaning.

Djokovic has admitted that the level of competition between him and the Spaniard makes it difficult for the ultra-talented duo to get along.

"Nadal and I have always respected each other," he said to Marca.com after booking his place in the quarter-finals.

"We always meet up in the most important tournaments' finals but we always speak well the one of the other and that is a good thing.

"Above all, we are people, human beings and we should have that clear in our heads. Obviously, we can't be best of friends. We aren't, but it's important to respect and understand each other"

With the stakes so high in the sport, it must be difficult a certain level of friendship. But there are no indications that their relationship is sour, like so many rivalries across the history of sport.

The two are currently locked in battle as they bid to reign the clay Grand Slam.

Nadal is no stranger to success in Paris. His tag of the 'King of Clay' was afforded him following the sheer weight of triumph that the world no.1 has tasted in his career. No man has ever won nine titles at Roland Garros, and the 27-year-old is closing-in on the record.

The Majorcan-born star can also match Pete Sampras' major haul of 14 with one more final victory, in that instance, only Roger Federer - who was knocked out yesterday - on 17 titles would be left to surpass.

Djokovic, meanwhile, despite his clay credentials, has been forced to live in the Spaniard's shadow, though he is close to emerging as the bright light this time around. None of the world no.2's six Grand Slam titles have come on the French dirt and he will be desperate to end that hoodoo. A final loss in 2012 against his rival is as good as it has got.

Many believe that the Serbian star will finally achieve his Career Slam following his run of stellar form. Before an arm injury he won at both Indian Wells and Miami, and after pulling out of the Madrid Open, the former world no.1 marked his return with glory at the Rome Masters.

Djokovic beat the fans favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga with apparent ease to reach the last eight yesterday, and Nadal can join him if he beats another Serbian star, Dusan Lajovic, today.

Even though the 26-year-old believes his rival will secure a ninth Roland Garros gong this year, he also enjoys their great rivalry: "The big favourite here in Paris is Nadal, who has already won it eight times," he continued.

"It's nice to form a part of history with Rafa, who I consider one of the best tennis players of all time"

The action at the French Open continues today.

Rafael Nadal 'a different player' two years on from Lukas Rosol defeat

Nadal is aiming to win Wimbledon for the third time (©GettyImages).

Rafael Nadal’s coach and uncle Toni Nadal has claimed his nephew is a different player to the one that lost to Lukas Rosol at Wimbledon two years ago, as the two players meet again on Centre Court on Thursday.

Rosol caused one of the biggest shocks in recent history when they met in the second round in 2012, as the Czech beat the Spaniard in five sets, despite being ranked 100 at the time, 98 places lower than Nadal.

World number one Nadal has not made it to the third round at SW19 in either of his last two attempts, as he was beaten in the first round by Belgian Steve Darcis in 2013, and his first round win over Martin Klizan of Slovakia on Tuesday was his first win on grass in over two years.

Doha victory

His uncle feels he will be unfazed by what happened the last time the two faced each other, in what will be third meeting between the two players, as Nadal won their last match in Doha in two sets earlier this year.

He said: "It's a different Rafa Nadal than two years ago. A better Rafa Nadal. In 2012, he had many problems when he arrived at Wimbledon.”

The two-time Wimbledon champion missed eight months of tennis after that infamous loss to Rosol, as a knee injury forced him to miss the US Open later that year, as well as the Australian Open in early 2013.

Fitness improvement

But the 28-year-old’s coach cited that his improvement in fitness since then makes him a much tougher player to beat, as he attempts to win the men’s singles title for the first time since 2010.

“Rafa struggled in every practice, he couldn't go down on his knees, which is important on grass, and his mentality was not good enough for that reason," he added.

"But now he has good movement and not much pain. He is the number one in the world and that should give him some confidence.”

Fourth Round barrier

Rosol, who set up the clash by beating Frenchman Benoit Paire in four sets on Monday, is now ranked at 52 in the world, though he is yet to reach the fourth round of a Grand Slam.

Nadal reached five finals in five appearances at the All England Club between 2006 and 2011, winning two of them in 2008 and 2010.

The 14-time Grand Slam winner became the 11th man in the Open Era to reach 700 career victories when he defeated Klizan on Monday, and he is also aiming to hold on to his position at the top of the world rankings.

Ranking points

His ranking points will increase now that he has improved on last year’s disappointing showing, though he would be in danger of losing the position if he was to fail to make the latter stages and Serbian Novak Djokovic was to win the title.

LIVE UPDATE: Rafael Nadal has lost the first set to Lukas Rosol on Centre Court, with the Czech taking it 6-4. However, the world number one took the second on a tie-break (8-6) to level the match at one set each.

Heather Watson bows out of Wimbledon in second round

Kerber was made to work hard on Centre Court (©GettyImages).

Heather Watson's hopes of making it to third round of Wimbledon were dashed by German ninth seed Angelique Kerber.

After a poor first set Watson showed her fighting spirit to claim the second, but Kerber took the all-important decider, advancing 6-2, 5-7, 6-1.

The 26-year-old will now go on to face Belgian 24th seed Kirsten Flipkens in the last 32. 

Talking to BBC Sport after the match, Kerber said: "Heather is a great, talented player and I am really happy I won. I was trying to be aggressive and focus on the moment. Heather has a very good future and I wish her all the best, she is a great player and a great personality."

Watson had been hoping to claim her first victory over a top ten player but made a poor start on Centre Court as she conceded the first set in just 29 minutes, making just 50% of her first serves and 10 unforced errors.

The 22-year-old showed a grit and determination that we come to expect in her performances during the second set, saving four break points at 4-4 and eventually breaking the German's serve on her third break point in the final game.

After slipping out the top 100 due to injury in 2013 Watson has battled her way back to 60th in the rankings. However she could not fight her way through to the next round as the world number seven quickly asserted her dominance in the final set.

Watson found herself 3-0 down before she could blink and one last fight back was just beyond her today, but one thing this tie does show is that Watson is capable of holding her own with the best in the business.

David Beckham joins sporting legends on Wimbledon Centre Court

When Beckham met Tendulkar (©GettyImages).

The biggest names from the sporting world joined Armed Forces for a day at tennis' most prestigious Grand Slam, as rain caused havoc on the middle Saturday of Wimbledon. 

Retired footballing legend David Beckham and the Indian cricket equivalent, Sachin Tendulkar, headlined the list of stars who took their place in the Royal Box before Rafael Nadal sailed into the fourth round with a four set victory.

Weather chaos

Thunder and lightening has sparked fears of a second week backlog at the All England Club, but Beckham and co sat pretty with the relatively new Wimbledon roof protecting them from the elements.

Also in attendance were Olympic heroes including Bradley Wiggins, Victoria Pendleton, Tom Daley, Nicola Adams, Anthony Joshua and Sir Matthew Pinsent. Tendulkar, Test cricket's all-time leading run scorer, was joined by fellow cricketers Phil Tufnell, Stuart Broad, Steven Finn and former England Test captain Andrew Strauss.

None of England's failed World Cup squad were there, but 'Golden Balls' was not alone - he had another Manchester United legend, Sir Bobby Charlton, alongside him. Becks' wife Victoria, the former Spice Girl, wasn't there to enjoy the action but mum Sandra was bought along instead.

Armed Forces

The hullabaloo of sports' elite members on Wimbledon's middle Saturday has become traditional in recent years. All of the stars were given a welcome by BBC presenter Sue Barker in front of an appreciative sell-out crowd. However, rightly so, the biggest applause and standing ovation went to members of the Armed Forces past and present. 

They all saw Nadal triumph against Kazakhstan underdog Mikhail Kukushkin, despite losing the first set, and later on Centre Court - former champions Maria Sharapova and Roger Federer also avoided banana-skins.

As the rain cleared later in the day, the biggest story to unfold was the exit of world no.1 and 17-time major champion Serena Williams. Her sister, Venus, has already been knocked out and this year marks the rare occasion that neither sister, with five SW19 singles titles each, will partake in the second week.

Star attractions

It highlights the attraction of players like the Williams sisters, Federer, Nadal and Sharapova that so many star names love to come and watch the action on the London grass.

Already this week we have seen the Royal Box full of high-profile public figures. Everyone from the Duchess of Cornwall to Ricky Gervais have graced the premium seats thus far.

At last year's final, in which Andy Murray became the first British man in over 70 years to win, Hollywood stars such as Gerard Butler and Bradley Cooper lent their support. Even the Queen is partial to a spot of tennis, though she hasn't popped along yet this time around. 

Maria Sharapova confused by Judy Murray tea bag reference

Sharapova made it through to the semi-finals.

Maria Sharapova made it through to the French Open semi-finals yesterday with a win over Gabrine Muguruza, the women who beat Serena Williams, and claimed after the match that she had never herd of Judy Murray.

The Russian star is looking to repeat her 2012 heroics at Roland Garros - a win that saw her complete the Career Slam - and is favourite to do so.

A tie against 20-year-old new girl on-the-block Eugenie Bouchard awaits, but it wasn't all plain sailing for Sharapova in the quarters.  The 27-year-old dropped the first set 1-6 against her unseeded Spanish opponent before fighting back to win 1-6 7-5 6-1.

It prompted Andy Murray's mum Judy, who also captains Britain's Fed Cup team, to post on Twitter: "Sharapova is like a tea bag. Put her into hot water and ul find out how strong she is."

When asked in the press conference about the tweet, the former world no.1 said: “Who is that? Sorry I don’t know who Judy Murray is.”

For Murray's mum, the claim that one of tennis' biggest stars has never heard that name will come as quite a shock no doubt.

The 54-year-old coach has gained notoriety in Great Britain for her presence at most of her son's games, including his wins at Wimbledon last year and the US Open of 2012. Clearly though, despite having nearly 100,000 followers on the social networking site, Judy hasn't quite extended to worldwide tennis circles.

Regardless about the source of the tea bag jibe, Sharapova didn't seem overly impressed after needing some extensive explanation (who can blame her) as to the meaning of the comment that was 'retweeted' nearly 400 times. 

After a long look of puzzlement, she eventually said: “She’s very creative. I guess she could have put it many different ways, and she chose the English version.”

Whilst we also learnt from the interview that Sharapova loves a good old fashioned English brew, the four-time Grand Slam champion will probably need to take on a more scientifically-proven energy supplement as she goes for glory in Paris.

Bouchard has impressed this year and also reached the last four at the Australian Open before losing to eventual winner Li Na.

The world no.16 has already beaten fellow seeds such as Carla Suarez Navarro and Angelique Kerber to reach this stage.

Elsewhere in the ladies' draw; fourth seed Simona Halep faces Svetlana Kuznetsova in the quarter-final, also Sarra Errani and Andrea Petkovic will look to fill the remaining spots.

Sharapova will be the favourite though. With many other big-names falling, she has a chance to add a second trophy to her collection while at the moment she has one of each the majors.

The seventh seed has only dropped two sets in a run which has also seen her defeat former US Open champion Samantha Stosur.

Wimbledon: Serena Williams confident of third-round victory

Williams beat Chanelle Scheepers in straght sets, 6-1, 6-1. (©GettyImages).

Serena Williams is confident of beating Alize Cornet in their third round Wimbledon clash, despite losing to the French star in their last meeting. The 2012 Wimbledon winner beat Chanelle Scheepers in straight sets to reach the third round.

Williams is confident that she can progress into the later rounds of the tournament, and also predicts the US football team will do the same, but is determined to keep her feet firmly on the ground.

The game against Cornet will prove to be a tougher test than Scheepers, but Williams will be keen to impress, after losing the last time the two met at the Dubai Championships, and has even admitted that the defeat will spur her on this time round.

Speaking at a press conference at SW19, she said: “Cornet, she does everything good. That’s why she was able to get a good win off of me. She never gives up, shes a big fighter. She gets a lot of balls back.

“But I’m ready. It’s time for me to step up my game and do what I know I can do and do what I’m best at.

“It makes me realise, okay, I have to work hard if I want to be able to get a win.”

Wimbledon run

However, the current world number one isn’t as happy with her win over Scheepers as many might think, admitting that she is a little bit happier with each win, but will feel ‘great’ if she manages to continue her Wimbledon run.

When asked how she felt about her form, she responded: “Well, I feel okay. You know, I don’t want to feel great necessarily right now because hopefully I have several more matches I can play.

“I do like to feel great in the beginning, but I think it’s also important not to peak too soon, keep working on your game, always have room for improvement.”

World Cup

However, Williams doesn’t think she is the only American athlete that will go far this summer. The tennis star has been following the World Cup passionately this summer, and tips Jurgen Klinsmann’s men to bring back the trophy.

When asked how far she thinks USA can go in the World Cup, she said: “I’m supporting the U.S. men all the way. I’m really excited.

“We can go all the way, right? We can go all the way.”