The impact of numerology over the names

Whenever an infant is born into a family, it’s a norm to first assess him/her with a name. The name of a person is just not a word to be referred to them but actually is the definition, a description of their personality and the briefing of their traits. It should be made very sure that while naming a person all the necessary measures are taken care of. They say that labeling of a product is done properly to define the quality of that product. The same theory can be applied upon assessing names to the young ones too. The better the name the more illustrative would be the definition.

 

While a lot of people who believe in ancestry, name their children on the basis of their legacy or the family trees, while others who believe in Numerology have different opinions. The people who believe in numerology work and practice a lot with numbers before naming their kids. In numerology each letter of your name is said to have an individual corresponding number. Cornerstone is said to be the first letter in your name while capstone is said to be the last one. Under Numerology the first vowel is also given sheer importance, as it is said to fulfill all your urges and dreams in life. Each and every letter in this section has a meaning of its own and preparing a name with all those combine meaningful letters will eventually make out the best desired result. The sum of the numbers in your birth date and the sum of numbers you make out while naming a person displays a great deal in the character, the future, the strengths and the weakness of an individual. Numerology helps in standing and fighting against all these weaknesses and odds. Believers say that numerology make you achieve whatever you want in life, and not just infants, a lot of people change their names in the later stages of their life too after realizing the problems they are suffering in their lives and in order to fight against them. This concept of Numerology was initially brought up by the Babylonians but gradually everyone started practicing it and eventually it became so popular and effective that now it is practiced across almost all over the world. There might be no scientific proofs about the authenticity of these numerology charts, but people still have faith in ample numbers about the relationship of words and numbers.

 

People also believe that in Numerology the on goings and the redemption is based upon three major factors; the date of birth, the name given to you on your birth and the name you use currently. The third factor can well be managed according to the needs and necessary requirements by the Numerology charts. There are ways to work over your names even if you’re a grown up in order to get over the grey shades you are going through in your personal lives. So everyone needs to go through that Numerology chart while assessing their young ones with new names.

 

Browse through name meaning, rankings, other people's comments, ratings, and other statistics in addition to the name meanings.

 

Chelsea confirm Christian Purslow deal

Christian Purslow set for Chelsea role (©GettyImages).

Chelsea have completed a deal to bring former Liverpool managing director Christian Purslow to the club, reports the Daily Star. 

Purslow - who left Anfield in 2011 - has taken the role of the Blues' new head of global commercial activities, as the club go in search of dominance in all areas on and off the pitch.

It appears, then, that as the Chelsea hierarchy look to improve their global image, Purslow will play a huge role in expanding their brand around the world. 

Chelsea certainly believe that the 50-year-old will play a key role in helping them achieve their goals over the coming months and years, as a club statement said: 

"The club believes Mr Purslow has the vision and the leadership qualities to help us achieve these plans."

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Purslow certainly proved his credentials on Merseyside throughout his Anfield tenure, as he initially played a key role in helping generate revenue for the club, before taking up a role as a special advisor and non-executive director. 

It remains to be seen as to how much of an impact he will have at Chelsea over the course of the next couple of years, but it certainly appears that the club are in extremely capable and experienced hands. 

On the pitch 

Chelsea, then, appear to be getting things right off the pitch, whilst the club look formidable on it despite only managing to secure a point at Old Trafford against Manchester United yesterday. 

The Blues looked on course to secure all three points against Louis van Gaal's side yesterday afternoon, before Robin van Persie's late goal spoiled things for Mourinho. However, with the Stamford Bridge outfit currently sitting top of the Premier League, they look a force to be reckoned with this season, and will take some stopping before now and the end of the campaign. 

Chelsea are next in action against Shrewsbury Town in the Capital One Cup tomorrow evening, as the club look to continue their progression in the competition. 

Roger Federer deserves fairytale return to World No.1

Federer lifted his hometown Basle trophy (©GettyImages).

Roger Federer never ceases to amaze when it comes to tennis; he proves that you can never keep a great man down for long.

Just a year ago, things looked less than rosy for the sport's most successful ever man. Only one title was won in Halle, as such the elusive Grand Slam no.18 remained exactly that, and the emergence of Stanislas Wawrinka was leaving people in doubt as to whether Federer was the best Swiss player anymore, let alone the world. 

It wasn't just a loss of form that was thought to be restricting the former world no.1, a decline bought about by the fearsome thirties looked to be irreversible. Tennis careers are short after all.

APOLOGY

I'll shamefully come clean and admit that earlier this year I believed Federer should have hung his racquet up. I thought we had already seen his best and that his form would only get worse with age and ruin his reputation.

How wrong was I though? - His comeback, of sorts, means he still has the potential to win that no.18 and can still officially be the world's best just one more time before calling a halt to proceedings. Indeed there is a chance that the latter could become so in the not too distant future.

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A stunning second-half to 2014 means that the 33-year-old can still overhaul new father Novak Djokovic as the world no.1 tennis player.

RANKING BATTLE

While the Serb has been adjusting to life with his first child, a newborn baby boy called Stefan, Federer has continued his great form with back-to-back titles in Shanghai and a personally-satisfying hometown triumph in Basle. 

With just the Paris Masters and ATP World Tour Finals left on the tennis calendar for the year, the Swiss veteran can potentially pick-up enough points to down Djokovic. 

I'm not too sure that many people would begrudge him of that mantle either.

Even if you're not a hardcore supporter of Federer, he just has that amazing likability factor. He seems like such a cool yet gracious guy, the sort you'd love to have as a best mate. 

FAIRYTALE

The Wimbledon final this summer was a strange one. I think most of the tennis world would have secretly loved to have seen Federer finally get to number 18, but Djokovic displayed his unbeatable best in a five-set classic. The amazing outpour of effort from Federer, six years his opponent's senior, came to nothing, sadly. 

It might not be the ultimate vindication for SW19 heartbreak, but how great would it be for Federer and his own growing family to tuck into their Christmas Turkey with good old Roger as the world's best once again. 

One would suspect that he's at an age where he'll probably appreciate the sentiment a lot more than the last time he was no.1, almost two years ago to the day, especially when you consider he's stooped as low as eighth in that time. 

I'm not trying to belittle Djokovic in any way at all, he too has had a wonderful year, aside from a few disappointments in the latter stages of the US and French Open, but come on Novak; you've got plenty of time to dominate once Federer goes, let him have one last go at the top! 

Of course Federer will have to earn it, and lets hope they have some more epic battles in Paris and London before the year is out. 

Robin van Persie's love-in with Cesc Fabregas a sickener for Arsenal fans

Ivanovic didn't look too happy with the pre-match embrace (©SkySports).

Manchester United's Sunday showdown with Chelsea has the feeling of a mutual appreciation society before kick-off, with the intensity you would normally expect from a titanic tussle between traditionally fierce rivals definitely lacking in the tunnel just before kick-off.

Former team-mates Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie summed up that mood by finding the time to share an embrace prior to the Old Trafford clash, in a moment that will leave a bitter taste in the mouths of Arsenal fans who used to idolise the pair.

Chelsea star Branislav Ivanovic certainly didn't look too impressed with their conduct and sent a scathing scowl in their direction, in a moment captured by the Sky Sports cameras ahead of a 1-1 draw in which Van Persie had the final say.

Love in shows how times have changed

Last weekend's stalemate was just over 10 years on from a far more infamous incident in the Old Trafford tunnel, a food fight between Arsenal and United enemies that saw Fabregas hurl a slice of pizza at Sir Alex Ferguson.

Hugs and kisses between those two sets of players would be almost unthinkable before or after a match, but a decade later and sharing tender moments with the opposition has now become commonplace.

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Tough for Arsenal fans to take

Fabregas and Van Persie continue to show Gunners supporters why their respective acrimonious exits were so difficult to take, both playing a key part in yesterday's latest battle between Chelsea and United.

Van Persie slammed home a vital late equaliser to end a frustrating afternoon in the best fashion possible, which cancelled out a Dider Drogba opener which was created by a pinpoint Fabregas cross.

The Spanish schemer now has eight assists in nine Premier League games this season, quite a haul for a man who Arsene Wenger turned down the chance to re-sign last summer.

After Mario Balotelli's headline-grabbing antics last week the former Gunners team-mates were clever enough not to swap shirts in front of the cameras, but the close friends just had to share a tender moment before the game with a hug that would have been enough for Roy Keane or Patrick Vieira to take instant action in their prime.

Andy Murray: ATP Finals progress papers over cracks

Robredo wasn't impressed with Murray's grit and resolve (©GettyImages).

It's almost job done for Andy Murray in his exhausting and determined pursuit to reach the ATP World Tour Finals, a final win over Tommy Robredo in the Valencia Open - his second title in as many weeks - means it would take a mini disaster in this week's Paris Masters to deny the British no.1 of a spot in London. 

It marks a stark contrast from Murray's downbeat attitude at the beginning of the month; facing an unlikely battle to get the season-ending tournament, the 27-year-old claimed the Finals weren't top of his priorities. 

Race

However, when kicking off his Autumn of discontent with a first title in over a year at the Shenzhen Open, Murray has built up momentum by playing six tournaments in six weeks (the last coming this week in France) to put himself fifth in the Race for London and on the cusp of finishing in one of the eight qualifying spots.

Few can now doubt his stamina, resilience and determination and, therefore, more than a few can take his previous comments about the Finals with a pinch of salt.

One person who would definitely agree with those sentiments is Robredo. The Spaniard has come a cropper against Murray's apparent revival in two instances recently. Their marathon Valencia final almost mirrored a similarly tough battle in Shenzhen.

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Swearing win

Both times Murray saved five match points to go on and lift the two trophies and Robredo was visibly aghast at his opponent's refusal to lose as he 'gave the fingers' to the former world no.3. 

With the maths much simpler now; Murray can secure his berth at the Finals next month with a quarter-final showing, as a minimum, this week in the French capital.

To many it may now appear as though the two-time Grand Slam champion has his mojo back after a stunningly difficult 12 months or so, don't count on it just yet though.

All is well?

Murray's struggles can be categorised by his failure to beat the world's current elite. Before the US Open, for example, he hadn't beaten a single player ranked in the world's top ten in 2014, a run he did end in the last 16 in New York by beating no.10 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

So what of his 'resurgence' since Flushing Meadows? 

Although beating him twice, David Ferrer - who hasn't set the world alight this year either - remains the only person in the top ten to be downed by Murray, apart from shock US Open winner Marin Cilic who has spent most the year outside the top bracket. 

Novak Djokovic and Ferrer (they seem to play each other a lot at the moment) have still eased to wins over the Scottish-born star. 

Tougher challenges

Murray can enjoy wins over the lower-ranked stars all he likes in 250 and 500 ranking point events, but what about the 1000s, Grand Slams and even the upcoming Finals. To win these, he must show an ability to beat the best and we simply haven't seen that yet. 

To put it in football terms; does Celtic winning the Scottish League every season in the absence of Rangers mean they're a great team...?

I wouldn't want this article to make me seem like one of the typical anti-Murray doom merchants; as a British tennis fan I would be delighted to see the 2013 Wimbledon winner do well at the O2 Arena, but the hard facts make that feat seem unlikely still.  

That being said, however, if Murray can show the same amazing levels of defiance as seen recently then he has a chance, if, of course, fatigue doesn't catch up. 

The week-long break Murray will get between Paris and London will feel like a lifetime after such an arduous schedule. Maybe his recent prize money glut will afford him some time on the beach, unless his coach Amelie Mauresmo deems it counter-productive for the new found momentum. 

There are so many intriguing questions yet to be answered by the new Andy Murray, thankfully it won't be too long until all is resolved and we can enjoy Christmas and look ahead to the 2015 season. 

Jessica Alba Tees it up at Mission Hills

GW News: Jessica Alba Tees it up at Mission Hills (©GettyImages).

On the PGA tour Robert Streb won the McGladrey Classic after a three way play off against Will MacKenezie and Brendon De Jonge. Streb birdied the second extra hole to claim his first PGA title and a winner's cheque for over $1m.

Thorbjorn Olesen won his second European tour event at the ISPS Handa Perth International. The Dane held off a final day charge by Victor Dubuisson to win by three strokes. There was also reason to celebrate for David Drysdale, Matthew Nixon and Anthony Wall who all secured their tour cards for next year in the final event of the European tour season. Lee Anne Pace won the weather effected Blue Bay LPGA in China. The tournament was reduced to 54 holes and had to be finished this morning due to persistent rain. It was Pace's 10th career title but her first on the LPGA tour.

Elsewhere in China, the stars were out in force for the Mission Hills World Celebrity Pro-
Am. Jessica Alba and Nicole Kidman were among a number of famous faces to tee it up alongside the likes of Ian Poulter, Suzann Pettersen and Gary Playa.

Justin Rose won the individual prize with Chinese actor Sun Nan picking up the celebrity title.

That’s all for today, we’ll be back tomorrow but in the meantime feel free to check out our website at golfingworld.tv or find us on facebook, twitter or instagram

Gary Ballance Diary: Sightseeing in Vegas

WIth the lads in Vegas!.

It’s been quite a while since my last diary entry, since then Yorkshire have lifted the LV= County Championship and I’ve been enjoying a bit of time off, including a few days in Vegas…

I’ve managed to get away from cricket and tried not to think about it or watch any cricket if I’m honest. I’ve gone away on holiday and had some nice weather which has been great. To get away from it and have a good break is important.

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One thing that was disappointing was missing the trip to Buckingham Palace to collect our winner’s medals.

I was holiday when the lads went and they all said it was great to go down there, see everything and pick up their medals so I was a bit disappointed I didn’t make it but I had arranged my holiday before we knew this was happening. They said it was a great trip and I’m looking forward to getting my medal, I believe one of the coaching staff has it so can’t wait to get my hands on it and I think I’ll get it framed.

Awards

I have been pretty busy since the season ended and the awards nights are always things players remember, we had the PCA Awards which is always a great night and it was great to see the Yorkshire boys doing well. Then the very next night we had our Yorkshire dinner which was a huge night for us after winning the Championship. We had lots of people turning out to support so it was two very good nights.

Alex Lees and Adam Lyth have been outstanding haven’t they? As a pair they have been brilliant and they have put Yorkshire into winning positions plenty of times and they gave us that platform for the bowlers to take all the wickets.

Opening partners

They are a great partnership and they thoroughly deserved all the awards they received after picking up the main accolades at the Cricket Writers’ lunch as well as PCA and Yorkshire events.

It was a mad few days around that time actually, we went down to London for the PCA Awards then back up the next morning for the Yorkshire dinner in Leeds before getting the train back down to London and heading out to Vegas with a few of the lads. We did a bit of sightseeing, went to see the Grand Canyon and… No, I’m only joking!!

I went with Joe Root, Alex Hales, Ben Stokes and Jade Dernbach so it was nice to get away and see new places and it was a good holiday and nice to have a break so hopefully we’ll be able to make it back there some day.

Las Vegas

We had a few pool parties’ which was really good but the group I went with had some bad clothes. I managed to keep my shirt on all the time to stay out of trouble!

I think cricket is like any job you do, when you have a break you want to get away and switch off for a bit, I’ve had a couple of holidays and it’s been nice so with a huge year coming up this is the right time to get away. This will help me when I start training and playing again because I’ll be fresh.

Louis van Gaal says Jose Mourinho is a better manager

Van Gaal is still trying to turn things around (©GettyImages).

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal says he hopes to one day emulate Jose Mourinho - despite the fact that he was the one who gave the Chelsea manager his big break in football.

The Special One worked under Van Gaal at Barcelona after assisting Sir Bobby Robson at the Nou Camp, and has gone on to become one of the most decorated coaches in the game. He helped Chelsea claim back-to-back titles in 2005 and 2006, before leaving to guide Inter Milan to Serie A and Champions League glory.

Winner

He then left to help Real Madrid win the Spanish league title. He also won the Portuguese league title with Porto, making him one of the few coaches to have won league titles in four different countries.

Van Gaal meanwhile has three league titles in three different countries - Spain, Germany and Holland - and will hope to make it four during his time with Manchester United. Before he took over at Old Trafford, Van Gaal spoke glowingly of Mourinho at an award's dinner, saying he was the best in the game.

"He has won titles in a shorter time than me and he has won them in more than three countries" - Van Gaal on Mourinho

Now with Manchester United set to take on Chelsea this afternoon, Van Gaal has reiterated his claim and says he still aspires to be as good as his former employee.

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“Of course I meant that [Mourinho is better]. He has won titles in a shorter time than me and he has won them in more than three countries, Van Gaal said.

“I am next with ­championships in three countries and I want to do that again here, then I’ll be equal. I think he is one of the top trainer-coaches and managers in the world.

“All his teams are always well-organised. I like that and it is why he is a very good ­manager.”

Title race

Manchester United currently sit 10 points off Chelsea, who are at the top of the table having yet to taste defeat in the league. The pair have only gone head-to-head once; in the 2010 Champions League final, when Mourinho's Inter Milan side beat Van Gaal's Bayern Munich 2-0.

"The honourable Howard Webb did not give a penalty to us," the Manchester United boss said.

“That game was the only time we have played against each other. After the match I said ­congratulations to Jose – but not any more than that.”

Mesut Ozil wants to join Manchester City

Mesut Ozil wants to join Manchester City (©GettyImages).

Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil is reportedly keen to leave the Gunners for Premier League champions Manchester City when the transfer window re-opens in January.

This is according to reports in Spain - and brought to our attention by the Express - which claim that Manchester City will make a £32 million offer for the Germany international, who is currently sidelined until the New Year with a knee injury.

Ozil has struggled at the Emirates Stadium since completing his £42.4 million transfer from Real Madrid last summer - and has come in for some strong criticism by fans and pundits alike for his below-par performances.

The Express add that Arsenal are understood to be open to offers for the World Cup winner, who is currently going through a high-profile split with girlfriend Mandy Capristo amid claims he cheated on her.

But despite Ozil’s many on and off-field problems, plus his injury, Manchester City are reportedly keen to bring him to the Etihad Stadium in the New Year. Manuel Pellegrini will know all about Ozil’s qualities after coming up against him while managing in both Spain and England, and must feel the former Real Madrid star still has plenty to offer.

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Bayern Munich also keen

Pellegrini isn’t the only coach who feels the same. In recent weeks it’s been claimed that Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola is also keen on the idea of signing Ozil in the New Year.

A return to the Bundesliga, where he previously played with Schalke and Werder Bremen, may appeal more than staying in the Premier League, where his career has stalled.

Billy Vunipola admits he didn't want Saracens move

Manu Tuilagi and Mako Vunipola (©GettyImages).

Both the Tuilagi and the Vunipola brothers have spoken to Clare Balding about the England squad, injuries, family and transfers.

Manu Tuilagi has been ruled out of the opening matches of the Autumn Internationals and is very disappointed, but is adamant that the England squad can cope against the southern hemisphere without him.

Injury

“With the injury, it’s one of those things, I had the same injury three, four weeks ago,” he said.

“It’s just unlucky, it felt really good throughout the whole week in training and at the start of the game. I think I got a bit too excited and it went really wrong. I had a scan on Monday and a meeting with the doctor and he said about 6-8 weeks.”

“It’s not good for the clubs and especially for England. It’s probably the biggest games so far in the season, especially building up to the World Cup next year. It’s very important to get the win over the teams from the Southern Hemisphere. With all the players we have, the competition is high in all areas of the team, we’ll be fine.”

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When asked who was the best Tuilagi brother, they both put Andy Tuilagi above themselves.

Alseana: “I think its Andy, he plays centre as well, he’s got good skills, and then Manu. I put myself last because I know I’m the best."

Manu added: “I think it’s Andy as well, but I think, with him, that when he plays he just wants to kill people too much sometimes. He ends up injuring himself quite a lot. He’s broken both arms, shoulders, but if he didn’t get injured he would be the best of us. His nickname is hard people.”

Family

During the show, the brothers got a surprise call from their mother, on which they commented.

Alseana said: “She was calling to find out about his injury. She always calls every weekend before and after a game. She loves watching other teams, not the teams that we play in, but she’ll always go for the younger son [when she watches].”

Manu commented:  “She’ll come to the game, but she’ll close her eyes, because she’s so worried we’re going to get hurt.”

Billy Vunipola has recently made the switch to Saracens to join up with older brother Mako, but he has revealed that the move isn't one that he wanted. “It was a lot to do with our family and also how unstable Wasps were at the time. I didn’t want to move, it was a family decision,” Billy said. “She didn’t like the fact we played in two separate teams.”

Choices

Mako added: “She didn’t want to go to two games in one weekend. Saving money on petrol.”

The Vunipola brothers had a tough choice to make when deciding on whether to play for England or for Wales, but feel they have justified their decision.“We kind of grew up here, it felt right to play for England,” Billy explained.

“Our dad really, growing up, Wales gave us a lot, a chance of a better life, he felt that at least one of us should play for Wales, he pushed us to play there," added Mako. "But like Billy said we played all our age group here, so we play for England.”

Manu and Alseana Tuilagi and Mako and Billy Vunipola were speaking ahead of their appearance on The Clare Balding Show which airs Friday 24th October at 10:00pm on BT Sport 2.

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova: Home win is a 'dream come true'

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova (©GettyImages).

On the back of her season ending victory at the Kremlin Cup, Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova exclusively told GiveMeSport about the difficulty of the final and her emotions about the home win.

The Russian saw off Romania's Irina-Camelia Begu 6-4 5-7 6-1 in the final of the tournament in front of her home crowd in Moscow to claim her seventh career title.

The 23-year-old came through the three set final in two hours 28 minutes, and was showing signs of fatigue after losing the second set to Begu.

"I'm so happy and proud of winning it in front of my home crowd, friends and family," she said.

"It was tough mentally and physically. It hasn't been an easy year for me, but I did it! I think I'm the first russian to do it since 2007.

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"I was extremely tired, but calm at the same time. I knew it was the last set of this season and I just knew I've had to give my all and play my aggressive tennis from the first point to the last!"

"So I just focused on myself [in the final set] as I was a bit more emotional in the second set and wasn't thinking about what I was doing."

Pavlyuchenkova took a swift 5-0 lead in the last, eventually coming out a 6-1 winner to claim her second title of the campaign and follow in the footsteps of previous Russian Kremlin Cup winners Anastasia Myskina, Anna Chekvetadze and Elena Dementieva, to which she added:

"That's... Wow! It's like a dream come true! I have been following that tournament since I was very little. Its not an easy tournament to play for a Russian player."

Pavlyuchenkova now begins her pre season preparations in an attempt to be ready for the Australian Open in January.

Manchester United v Chelsea: Updated predicted line-ups

Adnan Januzaj could be dropped for Manchester United clash (©GettyImages).

Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho have held their pre-match press conferences and kick-off for the eagerly-anticipated Premier League clash between Manchester United and Chelsea is now just one day away.

As a result, we’re able to bring you the updated predicted line-ups for Sunday afternoon’s crunch fixture - and there have been some rather interesting developments.

First of all, Van Gaal has confirmed that Herrera and Di Maria will be fit to face the Blues. That’s a huge boost for the home side, who head into the match as the underdogs against Mourinho’s unbeaten table-toppers.

But in less positive news for the Red Devils, Mourinho has revealed that Costa - despite his persistent hamstring problems and the fact he spent a night in hospital this week with a viral infection - could make a shock appearance this weekend.

Mourinho said Costa has ‘a little chance’ of playing - and by that, we can assume that the Premier League’s current joint-top scorer will be named in Chelsea’s starting line-up, particularly with Loic Remy ruled out with a groin injury.

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Another player who could get the nod is Willian. The Brazil international may be selected ahead of Andre Schurrle, who started upfront in last season’s corresponding fixture between the two Premier League giants at Old Trafford.

Other than that, Chelsea’s team picks itself. The only change Mourinho is forced to make is Felipe Luis in for the suspended Cesar Azpilicueta at left-back.

Man United to make several changes

Manchester United’s starting line-up should also contain few surprises, although there are doubts as to whether Marcos Rojo will partner Phil Jones in central defence. Van Gaal may opt for a taller centre-back, such as Jonny Evans or Chris Smalling.

Adnan Januzaj, who is valued at £40 million, is also expected to drop down the bench following his disappointing performance against West Brom last Monday. Radamel Falcao should partner captain Robin van Persie in attack.

Predicted Man United XI

De Gea; Rafael, Jones, Rojo, Shaw; Blind, Herrera, Di Maria; Mata; Van Persie, Falcao

Predicted Chelsea XI

Courtois; Ivanovic, Terry, Cahill, Luis; Matic, Fabregas; Hazard, Oscar, Willian; Costa

Five British male tennis talents

British Number 1, Murray, in action in Shanghai (©GettyImages).

We all heard of Andy Murray, the first British man to win Wimbledon for 77 years, hailing from the small Scottish town of Dunblane. But aside from him, what other male talents can British tennis boast about?

Here are five to keep an eye on...

1. James Ward

Probably the most well known of the 5, hailing from London, Ward is currently at a career high 110 in the world following some promising victories against higher ranked opponents.

Regarded by many tennis fans as the most likely to crack the top 100, the 27-year-old has excelled most in the Davis Cup and helped GB to a historic win over the US earlier this year. This was in no small part down to Ward who beat the former world number 17 Sam Querrey in a five set thriller.

2. Dan Evans

Seen as a wasted talent by several observers, the party loving Brummie had an excellent 2013 where he reached the 3rd round at the US Open beating the current world number 6 Kei Nishikori along the way, he followed this up in early 2014 by reaching the semi-final of the Zagreb Open.

But since then Evans has fallen from his career high ranking of 123 earlier in the year to his current ranking of 281 and has not played a tournament since exiting the US Open qualifiers back in August. 

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3. Kyle Edmund

Without a doubt Britain's biggest Tennis hope, the 19-year-old born in Johannesburg has had an excellent year in which he has climbed over 150 places in the world rankings to just outside the top 200. Many in the know have tipped Edmund to enter the worlds top 50 in the coming years and looks most likely to be Andy Murray's successor.

4. Liam Broady

The world number 266 from Stockport is another of GB's young tennis stars having risen over 200 places in the world rankings since the beginning of the year after a series of tournament wins in the US, Broady who is the brother of GB's womens number 3 Naomi Broady, who is another expected to crack the top 100.

5. Dan Cox

The diminutive Cox, who stands at 5' 7" tall, has had a mixed year. He reached a career high of 206 earlier in the year but following a poor run of form in the past few months, he currently stands at 323 in the world. 

Luke Wright opts out of IPL

Luke Wright (©GettyImages).

English cricket star Luke Wright has decided to not to put himself forward to play in the IPL next year as he opts to start the season with Sussex for the first time since 2009.

Wright has missed the opening games of the County Championships for the last four years, 2010 and 2011 due to injury, 2012 and 2013 playing for Indian outfit Pune Warriors, yet the 29-year-old is determined to stay and England and help Sussex end a six-year trophy drought.

Wright said:  “The IPL is a great experience for a player and obviously the money is good but I am going to give it a miss next year. It may be something I look at again in the future but with it being my benefit year I want to be around for the whole season."

“I’m honoured to have been awarded a benefit and I don’t think it would have been right if I’d missed the start of the year by going to the IPL. I also want to play a full season if possible and help Sussex try to win things."

“We weren’t too far off in the Championship last year and I’d like to think we can challenge next season while we know we must improve in white ball cricket and so I want to be fully focused on that too."

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Wright will line up for the Melbourne Stars this winter alongside controversial former England star Kevin Pietersen, before returning to the UK in February.

Best ever 

The Englishman will be looking to build upon his best ever campaign with the bat, after he scored 933 runs in only 12 matches, and will be hoping that playing a full season can help him break the 1,000 barrier for the first time in his career.

“I didn’t miss out by many and if I’d played all 16 games I’d like to think I would have got around 1,200 or 1,300 runs,” said Wright. “A top five batsman who plays all the games should get a minimum of 1,000 runs so hopefully I can achieve that next season."

“I want to be scoring runs to help us be successful and it would be perfect if I could carry on from where I left off last season and help us win some silverware in my benefit season.”

Rory McIlroy receives dig from ex-girlfriend Caroline Wozniacki

The couple in happier times (©GettyImages).

Caroline Wozniacki is currently in danger of being remembered as a personality better suited to sport's version of TOWIE, especially after her latest stint in the headlines.

The Danish hitter has posted a controversial picture - which has since been deleted - onto her Instagram account in which she wears high-heels. Shock, scandal or lock her up are probably thoughts that you aren't thinking. However, it is the caption which has caused a stir.

Comments

"Out and about in Istanbul. It's been three years since I have worn high heels on a normal day out. #feelsgood #looksgood #shopping #highheels #sun," she said to her fans.

This is of course in reference to her ex-fiancé Rory McIlroy. Hell hath no fury like a women scorned; the Northern Irishman is most likely understanding that saying now.

McIlroy digs

The golfing star was shorter than his 23-year-old partner and her shoe choice was clearly cut as a result - now the former world no.1 wants everybody to know.

It could be worse I guess, Wozniacki could be throwing her high-heels - with force - at McIlroy after what happened. (Note to prospective grooms; don't cancel the wedding - especially don't do it after sending the invites!)

Understandably the break-up hit Wozniacki - a former Grand Slam finalist - quite hard. She struggled at the French Open in the immediate aftermath and failed to make amends with a notable time at Wimbledon a few weeks later.

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Silly situation

However, the longer this sort of silly tittle-tattle continues, the longer it will affect the game of the world no.15.

It's all becoming a bit like playground chit-chat. Journalists weren't allowed to mention McIlroy's name at Wimbledon but stories of a potential romance with Feliciano Lopez and other romance debates have surfaced. It's all a bit boring.

Future

Caroline Wozniacki is a superb player, and you'd think that'd be her desired legacy rather than the off-court celebrity who's unlucky in love.

Of course, like anybody, she is deserving of a husband, a great guy - she seems like a lovely girl - but there's a time and a place to focus on it, and the public eye isn't such place.

Tennis careers are short and Wozniacki will do well to remember that. Maybe her master-plan is to establish herself as the queen bee of the sport, a David Beckham-type character if you like. But she will need to win a major or doing something significant if she wants to remain in the headlines after her career. Otherwise, like I said at the top of this article, she's in danger of becoming a TOWIE-like Big Brother wannabe.

Adnan Januzaj wanted by Ajax

Adnan Januzaj is wanted by Ajax (©GettyImages).

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has admitted that Ajax would be interested in signing Adnan Januzaj on loan - but fear the Dutch club would not be able to pay the Belgium international’s wages.

Van der Sar, who now works with Ajax as a director following his retirement in 2011, was asked by Belgian newspaper HLN whether the Eredivisie outfit would be interested in taking Manchester United’s number 11 to the Amsterdam Arena for the second half of the 2014-15 campaign.

Van der Sar responded by saying: "Well, if you have the number of his agent: give it me with confidence. But I fear that we can't pay his salary."

Januzaj struggling under Van Gaal

Januzaj, who rose to prominence last season under the management of David Moyes, has struggled for minutes under Louis van Gaal this term. The 19-year-old made his first Premier League start of the campaign against West Brom last Monday night, but failed to make an impact on the game.

Van Gaal is not expected to name Januzaj in his starting line-up for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Chelsea. Indeed, the teenager may struggle for first-team opportunities between now and the New Year - with increasing speculation that United will allow him to go out on loan until the end of the season.

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United fans want Januzaj to stay

Januzaj is widely considered one of the most promising young players in Europe and a host of clubs - possibly including - would be interested in signing the £40 million-rated starlet on a short-term deal if Van Gaal chooses to send him out on loan.

Ajax have an advantage as they’re one of the clubs that Van Gaal previously managed earlier in his coaching career and, more importantly, trusts to aid the development of gifted young players like Januzaj.

But Manchester United supporters will be hoping the veteran Dutch coach can find a place for Januzaj in his team - fearing that, if his current situation continues, the Belgian may begin to consider a permanent move away from Old Trafford.

Jason Dufner and Schwartzel chase lead in Perth.

GW News: Dufner and Schwartzel chase lead in Perth (©GettyImages).

First to the ISPS Handa Perth International where Thorbjorn Olesen shares the first round lead with the unheralded Australian, John Wade. The 46 year old had to go through Monday qualifying to earn his place at Lake Karrin-yup Country Club. But despite that, he leads ahead of Major winners Charl Schwartzel and Jason Dufner, who are four under and two under respectively.

The Blue Bay LPGA is also underway in China, with Jessica Korda, out in front. At six under, she is one shot clear of a chasing pack that includes last week’s winner Shan-shan Feng and Michelle Wie.

And finally, fans of Patrick Reed will be delighted to hear he has finally joined twitter! No doubt the American was expecting his fair share of banter from the twitter fraternity, but the first shot came from his Ryder Cup team mate Bubba Watson. Much like at Gleneagles though, Reed took the comments in his stride. The self-proclaimed top five player in the world enjoyed playing the pantomime villain at Gleneagles, but proved a good sport at last week's Volvo World Match Play Championship by posing with his European counterparts to recreate the infamous ‘shh’ sign – a photo he duly retweeted.

That’s all for today, but join us again tomorrow. In the meantime you can see more at golfingworld.tv, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Bye for now.

Victor Valdes rejects contract offer from Manchester United

Valdes was invited to train with Manchester United. (©GettyImages).

Manchester United have been left stunned after Victor Valdes rejected the chance to join the club on a short-term deal, reports Metro.

Citing reports from Spain, the British tabloid claim that the former Barcelona goalkeeper, who is currently a free agent, is not interested in joining Manchester United to be understudy to David de Gea.

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Cancelled deals

Louis van Gaal was ready to offer Valdes the chance to regain his fitness at Old Trafford as he continues to recover from a serious knee injury. That knee injury has seen transfers to both Monaco and Liverpool fall through.

Both clubs were unconvinced by the 32-year-old's level of fitness with the former cancelling a pre-contract that had been agreed while Valdes was still at Barcelona. Now battling to return to fitness, Van Gaal gave Valdes to perfect chance to regain his form.

He also appeared close to joining Liverpool earlier this season on a free contract as Brendan Rodgers grew doubtful over Simon Mignolet. However, the Reds walked away from a deal after Valdes failed to convince them that he was ready to be their first choice goalkeeper.

Training

The Dutchman gave Valdes the opportunity to train with Manchester United at their Carrington training ground until he can find a new team. Van Gaal share a close relationship with the Spaniard having originally given him his debut at Barcelona 12 years ago.

Valdes will work on his fitness with Manchester United but it appears he will not sign a short term deal with the club. Instead, he will look for a deal where he can go straight into the first team.

Competition

Obviously, Valdes was not ready to spend what should be his prime years as an understudy to someone almost ten years his junior. De Gea has thoroughly impressed this year despite Manchester United's less than impressive defensive record and doesn't look likely to be dropped in the near future.

Valdes would no doubt become the second choice behind Anders Lindegaard but that doesn't appear to be good enough to convince him to become a Manchester United player.

Younis Khan breaks records with 25th Test century against Australia

Khan's off-field disagreements with the PCB could hinder his ODI chances (©GettyImages).

Younis Khan hit his 25th Test century as Pakistan fought back in the first Test against Australia.

Khan became the first Pakistani to score a ton against nine different nations, while also equalling former captain Inzamam ul-Haq’s record of the most centuries in Test cricket.

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Following time away from the Pakistan squad for personal reasons, Khan was dropped from the Men in Green’s limited overs side, starting with the ODI series against the Aussies.

Proving a point

He warned the selectors he would prove them wrong, and he has certainly done that with a fine innings against one of the world’s best sides.

Without him, Pakistan lost the ODI series 3-0, but look much more of a threat with him in their ranks for the Test series. Captain Misbah-ul-Haq won the toss and opted to bat first, and Khan made the most of the wicket.

Nonetheless, he was made to wait for his century, taking 136 balls to even get his fifty. However, he demonstrated incredible patience in reaching the milestone.

The ton might make the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) think twice about leaving him out of their fifty-over squad, particularly for the ICC World Cup next year.

Pakistan were reduced to 7-2 after wickets from Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle, and the extent to which the side relied on Khan for their revival is cause for concern if they are not planning to take him to Australia and New Zealand next year.

Following Khan’s fourth-wicket stand, the Men in Green found themselves with a far more respectable 219-4 at the close of play on day one.

“Sacrifice my future”

His century, which included ten fours, is yet another indicator that Khan intends to continue his international career, despite demanding that Pakistan don’t select him “even for Tests”, in an interview with ESPN Cricinfo.

Khan – who told the PCB he was “sacrificing (his) future” - has a strained relationship with chief selector and namesake Moin Khan, and that could prove an impediment to his future.

Though he remains part of the Test outfit, which he has been a key component of for almost 15 years – he, along with other veterans – is likely to now be discarded soon in favour of younger players.

Novak Djokovic at risk of losing form in fatherhood

Djokovic hasn't played since Shanghai (©GettyImages).

Novak Djokovic is a winner on-court and he'll no doubt be feeling like a winner off it as well, with the Serbian celebrating the birth of his first child; a baby boy called Stefan. 

The year hasn't finished yet, but what an eleven-months - more-or-less - it has been for Djokovic and his new family. 

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Personal joy

A summer marriage to his long-term sweetheart Jelena Ristic and now the birth of the couple's first child; it doesn't get much better for a normal family, let alone the Djokovics.

That's right, because while he gets his personal life in place, success in the day job hasn't ground to a halt for the seven-time Grand Slam champion either.

We hear and read endless amounts about this being tennis' golden generation with the likes of Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and even Andy Murray, all competing in their prime, and yes it's great.

Dominance 

However, the last couple of months have really seen Djokovic move a step ahead of the pack. He's won back the world no.1 tag and hasn't looked back since leapfrogging Nadal to the spot at Wimbledon.

It seems slightly strange therefore that he'll end 2014 with just (!) the one major title; at SW19. It didn't quite go right for Djokovic in the big moments of the other Slams when it looked like it could and should have. 

Almost needless to say, maybe, but Djokovic will look to turn dominance and favourable bookies' odds into more trophies in 2015, finally the elusive French Open?

Fumbled focus?

However, could there be a chance that the new father's focus will be rumbled by Stefan's birth? - Few could blame him if so, and recent history suggests it might well be a problem on-court.

Cast your mind back to the summer and the back-to-back Slams at Roland Garros and Wimbledon. Djokovic was due to marry Ristic in the short break between the events but postponed the wedding at the last minute.

It wasn't because he had fallen out of love, or anything like that, it was so that he could focus on winning Wimbledon after his heartbreaking final loss in Paris to Nadal a week or so before. 

Zone

Clearly Djokovic is one of those people that has to be completely in the zone, and, evidently, his decision was vindicated as he defeated Federer in yet another Centre Court classic. 

The couple did of course get married after Wimbledon, but again, cast your mind back, in the weeks leading up to the US Open - his first action since the wedding - Djokovic really struggled to find form after the honeymoon period with his new wife. 

The season-end is drawing nearer and Djokovic will have some more time with baby Stefan and his wife, so imagine how much tougher it'll be for him when the tennis world reunites for the start of the 2015 season in Australia of all places. 

Challenge

One would suspect it'll be a difficult time for Djokovic, it's not as if he can postpone his feelings for his child, it'll constantly be at the back of his mind. How will that zone be compromised, that is a question with a very intriguing, and as yet unknown answer. 

Maybe he can tap into Federer's pool of experience. The 33-year-old has been able to combine the rigours of top-class tennis with fatherhood, he's had two sets of twins to deal with as well!

I'm sure the advice most pursued by Djokovic will be the best way to deal with sleepless nights; who knows, maybe Roger is just an unflappable freak of nature, it has certainly seemed that way sometimes in his career. 

Arsenal close to signing Mile Svilar

Arsenal are close to signing the new Courtois (©GettyImages).

Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Anderlecht goalkeeper Mile Svilar, who is also wanted by Manchester United and Chelsea, and has been compared to his Belgian compatriot Thibaut Courtois.

This is according to the Metro, who cite Belgian newspaper Nieuwsblad as confirming that the highly-rated 15-year-old is a top transfer target for the Gunners.

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Arsenal to invite Svilar to north London

Arsenal want Svilar, who has previously been trialled by Chelsea, to join their Under-18 team in the New Year and are planning for the teenager to come to north London for a look around the club's training complex ahead of a potential move to the Emirates Stadium.

If successful in their pursuit, Svilar's signature would represent a major coup for the Gunners. Youth coaches in Belgium have hailed the youngster as the most talented keeper they've seen at his age since Courtois who, at 22, is already arguably the world's best player in his position.

Svilar played against Arsenal this week

Svilar, who turned 15 in August, played against Arsenal for Anderlecht in the Under-19 Champions League earlier this week. And while he conceded three goals on the night - Anderlecht still secured a 4-3 victory - it was not a display that would have harmed his chances of sealing a move to the Gunners or any other interested club.

Despite his immense talent and potential, it will still be a few years before Svilar is ready to play Premier League football for Arsenal. Arsene Wenger may decide to use the young keeper in the same way Chelsea used Courtois after signing him from Genk in 2011.

Will Arsenal use Svilar like Chelsea used Courtois?

The Blues sent Courtois out on loan to Atletico Madrid for three consecutive seasons - and the 6ft 6in shot-stopper cemented his status as one of Europe's best during his immensely successful spell at the Vicente Calderon.

The main reason Chelsea opted against using Courtois sooner was because Petr Cech was still at his peak, but Jose Mourinho knew he had to make the switch this season with the former's contract edging closer to its expiry date.

Whether Arsenal adopt a similar approach will depend on the form of their current number one, Wojciech Szczesny, over who doubts still persist.

The Gunners have lacked a reliable, first-class goalkeeper since David Seaman - Jens Lehmann was talented but temperamental - and Svilar, if the hype is to be believed, could be the man Arsenal have been crying out for for years.

Zoran Tosic reveals Manchester United regret

Zoran Tosic in action against Manchester City. (©GettyImages).

CSKA Moscow winger Zoran Tosic admits he might have left Manchester United a little too hastily, after pushing for an Old Trafford exit four years ago when it became clear he wasn't guaranteed regular action.

The Daily Mail carries quotes from the Serbia international who spoke glowingly about being signed by the Red Devils in 2009, in the build-up to his side's Champions League encounter against Manchester City in the behind closed doors clash at Arena Khimkion on Tuesday.

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Tosic was picked up by Sir Alex Ferguson at the age of 21, catching the former Manchester United manager's eye after scoring 18 goals in 61 matches for Partizan Belgrade.

The Premier League giants agreed to pay £7 million for the attacking midfielder's services, but failed to offer him enough significant game time to prove he could succeed in England's top-flight.

Restricted to just five first-team appearances which totalled just 79 minutes of competitive action, Tosic was swiftly sent out on loan to Germany where he enjoyed a brief spell with Bundesliga outfit Cologne.

Upon his return to Manchester the situation hadn't changed, with a certain Cristiano Ronaldo occupying his favoured position out wide, resulting in a permanent transfer to Russia in the summer of 2010, just 18 months after joining the Premier League giants from his native Serbia.

"It all happened really quickly as I played for just 18 months with Partizan Belgrade," Tosic reflected. "We won the league and the cup and there was a period when it seemed like I was scoring in every match.

"It was at that point I signed for Manchester United. It was such an exciting moment to go there and to meet Sir Alex.

"I had grown up as a United fan so to be working for the man who had brought so much success to the club was just unbelievable.

"However, there is a big difference between the Serbian and English league and when I arrived in Manchester I discovered I was not yet ready for that level.

"I spoke with Sir Alex many times and he kept telling me I had quality and just had to keep working hard. But I wanted to play more games so went to Cologne in Germany on loan and had a great six months there.

"When I came back to Manchester I was expecting to play more games for United but it didn't happen. In the end I wasn't sure I was going to get the chance I felt I deserved so decided to change club.

Transfer regret?

"Even now I am always thinking about that moment. Maybe I shouldn't have been so quick and should have worked longer to show Sir Alex. Maybe I should have stayed and fought for my place. This was Man United after all."

Despite the regret that Tosic holds regarding his failed stint at Manchester United, he's established himself as a star performer in the Russian Premier League, and scored 33 goals in 150 games for CSKA Moscow over the past five years.

Leonid Slutsky knows just how important the 27-year-old is to his current team, and he'll have an integral role to play if the club are going to have any chance of advancing to the knockout stage of the Champions League.

CSKA are currently rock bottom of Group E with just one point from their opening three games, which came courtesy of a 2-2 draw with Manchester City on Tuesday. But, with Bayern Munich and AS Roma also in the same pot, they're facing an uphill struggle to progress, and know they'll need victory from their next game at the Etihad Stadium on November 5.

Golfing World News - October 22

GW News: Jason Dufner makes comeback at Perth International (©GettyImages).

We start in Australia where Jason Dufner makes his first appearance in almost three months at the Perth International. Dufner has been out of action since withdrawing from this years PGA Championship with a neck injury. The enforced lay off also kept him out of the Ryder Cup, although Dufner has admitted he didn't watch a single minute of action from Gleneagles. Instead, he spent his time out with his wife, watching football and cooking.

It’s been a busy few days for Ian Poulter, with a new book about to hit the stands, he has also taken to Twitter to announce his new deal equipment deal: having split with Cobra - Puma Golf last week, Poulter will now become a staff player for Titleist and Footjoy. And with the Ryder Cup never far from his mind, the charismatic Englishman has admitted he would love to lead Europe later on in his career; but for the next match, has joined Rory McIlroy in backing Darren Clarke to be appointed the next Captain for Hazeltine in 2016.

And finally, if you’re looking for a new refreshing taste at the 19th hole, look no further than the line of craft beers that Graeme McDowell, Keegan Bradley and Freddie Jacobson have teamed up to produce. The trio have set up the Golf Beer Brewing Company and developed their own tipples. G-Mac’s Celtic Pale Ale, Bradley’s New England Lager or Jacobson’s Scandinavian Blonde Ale will all be available to the public in early 2015.

That’s it for today’s news, we’ll be back tomorrow but in the meantime you can find us at golfingworld.tv or on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. Bye for now.

Golfing World News - October 21

GW News: Court Dispute threaten McIlroy’s Perfect Year (©GettyImages).

It's been a stellar year for Rory McIlroy, but his off course woes will be heading into 2015 with him. The court directed mediation between McIlroy and his former management company Horizon have come to a close without an agreement being reached.

As a result the four time major winner has announced he will be missing the upcoming BMW Masters and WGC HSBC Champions events to prepare for the court case. With the trial expected to start in late January, McIlroy will be hoping for a swift resolution to avoid interfering with his Masters preparation as he attempts to become the youngest player to complete the career grand slam.

It's been a busy week for McIlroy who was pictured enjoying a meal out in Dublin with actress Meghan Markle. Rumours of a romance surfaced when Rory nominated Meghan for the ice bucket challenge back in August. She accepted but on the condition that the world number one would be the one to pour the ice over her. After that we certainly hope McIlroy picked up the bill.

Back to golf and it seems that Tiger Woods is closing in on a return to action following his latest injury absence. Tiger's long term agent Mark Steinberg told USA Today that doctors have given him the ok to start hitting golf balls again. Woods is hoping to return in time for his own event, the Hero World Challenge at the Isleworth Golf and Country Club in early December. That plenty of news for one day, we'll be back tomorrow but in the meantime you can check out our website golfingworld.tv or get in touch on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Bye for now.

Serena Williams suffers humiliating defeat to Simona Halep

Serena Williams (©GettyImages).

18-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams was humbled by Simona Halep on Wednesday night, as she succumbed to a 6-0 6-2 humiliation to the Romanian on Singapore's purple indoor hard court.

Williams now sits second in Group A of the WTA Championships, and is pushed for her place in the semi-finals as Anna Ivanovic secured a crucial victory over Eugene Bouchard.

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The defeat was Williams' biggest loss since 1998, when she lost 6-1 6-1 to Joannette Kruger in the quarter-finals at Oklahoma City.

Williams, by her own admission, was absolutely horrendous on the night. The world number one claims she was not 100% going into the match, but took nothing away from the performance of her opponent.

“I’m definitely not 100% okay. I’m just here playing, but I’m not nowhere near 100%,” she told reporters.

“That has nothing to do with today’s match. I think Simona played really well and the best match of her career. To be quite frankly honest, I’m looking forward to our next meeting because she is making me going to go home and work hard and particularly train for her.”

65-minute disappointment

Williams was on and off the court in a mere 65 minutes, and was extremely critical of her game in the post-match interview.

“Yeah, my forehand was off today again. I guess it went on an early vacation,” the American added. “Lord knows my serve was as well. My serve, I don’t even know.

"My serve was at best in the 10 and under division in juniors. It was actually embarrassing I think describes the way I played. Yeah, very embarrassing.“

“I’m obviously frustrated and I wanted to do better. I wanted to win more than two games. I was trying for three. At one point I was like, If I can just get three games. But that didn’t work out for me. But it’s okay. You know, things are going and I’m still going to come back and I’m going to be better.”

Williams takes on Bouchard later this week as she hopes to bounce back from the disappointment of last night with a semi-final spot hanging in the balance.

Bouchard is still looking for her first win of the championships, and the Canadian will be hoping she can beat her rival and get back to winning ways.

England name three uncapped players in 33-man squad

Lancaster names his squad. (©GettyImages).

Semesa Rokoduguni is one of three uncapped players to make Stuart Lancaster's 33-man squad for the QBE Autumn Internationals, which consists of seven Bath players.

England will take on New Zealand, South Africa, Samoa and Australia this November, and will be looking to push the southern hemisphere teams all the way and make a stand ahead of next year's World Cup.

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Other uncapped players include Saracens lock George Kruis and Northampton flanker Calum Clark, who are set to make there International debuts next month.

Rokoduguni's inclusion has swelled the number of Bath players to seven, including centre Jonathan Joseph, who comes in to replace the injured Manu Tuilagi.

Bath are now as equally well represented in the squad as Aviva Premiership pacesetters Northampton Saints, who have fly half Stephen Myler fighting Saracens' Owen Farrell and Bath's George Ford for the No.10 shirt.

Chris Robshaw retains the captaincy, and Head Coach Stuart Lancaster has commented on the array of talent on display in the Premiership and how his decisions have been influenced.

Lancaster told the press: “The first six rounds of the Premiership and opening round of European action have given us plenty to think about as coaches with a lot of players putting their hand up for selection and we are excited by the options available to us.

More squad additions

“We are still monitoring a number of players injury-wise and with another intensive round of European games to come, including the Wasps-Harlequins and Sale-Clermont games on Sunday, there are likely to be additions to the squad after the weekend as we move into the training camp and towards the games - so there is plenty to be decided before the New Zealand match comes around.

"We have four quality sides coming to Twickenham for this QBE Internationals series and we are really looking forward to playing at home in front of our passionate supporters as we continue the build up to the World Cup in 12 months’ time.”

Exeter winger Jack Nowell returns to the setup having made a full recovery from the knee injury that kept him out of the tour of New Zealand, while back-row duo James Haskell and Ben Morgan have also returned to the frame.

33-man England squad for Autumn internationals:

Forwards:

Joe Marler (Harlequins)
Matt Mullan (Wasps)
Kieran Brookes (Newcastle Falcons)
David Wilson (Bath Rugby)
Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints)
Rob Webber (Bath Rugby)
Dave Attwood (Bath Rugby)
George Kruis (Saracens)
Joe Launchbury (Wasps)
Courtney Lawes (Northampton Saints)
Calum Clark (Northampton Saints)
James Haskell (Wasps)
Ben Morgan (Gloucester Rugby)
Chris Robshaw (Harlequins, captain)
Billy Vunipola (Saracens)
Tom Wood (Northampton Saints)

Backs:

Danny Care (Harlequins)
Lee Dickson (Northampton Saints)
Ben Youngs (Leicester Tigers)
Owen Farrell (Saracens)
George Ford (Bath Rugby)
Stephen Myler (Northampton Saints)
Brad Barritt (Saracens)
Luther Burrell (Northampton Saints)
Kyle Eastmond (Bath Rugby)
Jonathan Joseph (Bath Rugby)
Billy Twelvetrees (Gloucester Rugby)
Mike Brown (Harlequins)
Alex Goode (Saracens)
Jonny May (Gloucester Rugby)
Jack Nowell (Exeter Chiefs)
Semesa Rokoduguni (Bath Rugby)
Marland Yarde (Harlequins)

Marco Reus wants €230,000-a-week salary to leave Borussia Dortmund

Reus is reportedly available for €25m, but who will take advantage? (©GettyImages).

Borussia Dortmund star Marco Reus expects to earn a whopping €12 million per year if any club activates his much-discussed €25m release clause next summer, a salary that Manchester United have proved over the last 12 months they're willing to pay to make sure world-class talent keeps arriving at Old Trafford.

German tabloid Bild reports that Reus may have to compromise on that lofty €230,000-a-week salary request if he wants to become the latest Dortmund star to make a controversial switch to Bayern Munich though, citing the example of a breakdown in contract talks between the Bavarian giants and Toni Kroos last summer.

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-Mario Gotze wants Reus to join Bayern
-Arsenal, Man United & Liverpool all want Reus

Bayern chief executive Karl-Heinz Rumennige's comments on interest in Reus has once again left Dortmund facing the stark possibility that another of their top stars might leave for the Allianz Arena, the third in successive seasons.

Mario Gotze and Robert Lewandowski have already made the contentious switch across the Bundesliga and Reus could be next, but Bayern would have to put the wing wizard on a par with top earner Franck Ribery in a long-term deal to make the move happen.

Bayern are fierce negotiators, will that proven an obstacle?

Rummenigge and co. have proven in the past that they won't always budge to give their current stars six-figure contracts if they don't feel Bayern's budget can handle big wages, with Toni Kroos the most relevant recent example.

Kroos wanted a contract extension on vastly improved terms last season as reward for his excellent form, but Bayern decided they couldn't afford it and reluctantly allowed the classy playmaker to sign for Real Madrid.

Bayern are acutely aware that at 31 and 30 respectively Ribery and Robben will need to be replaced in the very near future, which means that despite having Xherdan Shaqiri waiting in the wings they are actively looking at the possibility of signing a new winger.

Premier League interest is strong

There is of course an alternative to the dreaded Bayern switch that Dortmund fans could probably learn to live with, sell Reus to the Premier League if he truly has his heart set on a fresh challenge next season.

Dortmund's shocking start to the season may well have accelerated that process, but interest from Arsenal, Manchester United & Liverpool is genuine and all three teams would love to add the vibrant forward to their ranks, particularly for a bargain €25m.

You have to put United in pole position to seal a deal out of those three teams once you factor that massive €230,000-a-week wage demand into transfer talks though, because deals for Angel di Maria, Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney's latest extension have proved the Red Devils will pay a premium to world-class talent.

Arsenal have never paid more than £200,000-a-week to a player in the club's history, with top earners Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez falling some way short of that mark.

Liverpool meanwhile have a wage structure in place that they probably wouldn't break, even for a player of considerable calibre like Reus.

This transfer tussle has some way to run, but despite Arsene Wenger being a huge admirer of the 25-year-old it looks like a straight shootout between Bayern and United for one of European football's hottest properties when the current campaign draws to a close.

Moeen Ali wont let 'haters' stop his England mission

Moeen Ali (©GettyImages).

Moeen Ali has vowed to keep his focus amid catcalls suggesting he should be playing for Pakistan and not for England.

Ali was booed by Indian supporters at his local ground, Edgbaston, this summer, but is determined to ignore the "haters" and insists that the heckling doesn't affect him in the slightest, although it does have an impact on his family.

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"No matter what you do, no matter how good you try to be, you are always going to get a certain amount of haters, so I just accept that and carry on. It doesn't really bother me at all," Moeen he told Sky Sports.

"I live by a phrase, 'A lion doesn't lose sleep over the opinions of sheep', so I just get on with it."

"I have had a lot of Indian friends who have apologised on behalf of other people for the boos, and it's nice, it's really nice to hear that. That sort of thing inspires me to keep going and not lose heart."

Disappointment

Birmingham-born Ali has revealed his disappointment at being criticised by local fans when he played at Edgbaston, despite living only five minutes from the ground.

"I did hear guys with Brummie [Birmingham] accents telling me to play for my own country, so it was a tough one. They were more Brummie than I was.

"But it was a shame because I only live five minutes down the road from Edgbaston, and my family were there and my friends were there and everyone was getting quite angry."

The Warwickshire all-rounder has spoken of his family's discomfort at the ridicule Moeen had received this summer, but he was surprised that no-one, especially his father, took any action.

Family

"I was surprised my dad didn't do anything, to be honest with you, because he is quite a hot-tempered person as well, so I was very surprised that he just sat there and watched the game.

"Obviously he was getting angry, but he never did anything, but I was looking in the crowd to see if there was a fight anywhere and make sure my dad wasn't one of them. I thought my dad would definitely lose it at some stage, but thankfully he didn't."

Ali has appeared in seven Tests for England, taking 22 wickets and averaging over 30 runs per innings, with a top score of 108 not out against Sri Lanka.

Moeen will be hoping he can ignore the taunting enough to focus on his career and cement his place in the England line up.

India overlook Gautam Gambhir's dispute with Delhi

Gambhir may be better suited to Tests, but can shine at the fifty-over World Cup (©GettyImages).

India are set to take Gautam Gambhir to the World Cup despite the opener having fallen out of favour in recent months.

The opener last played for the Men in Blue in a Test against England in the summer, a series which saw the Three Lions escape with a 3-1 victory.

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He was not selected for the ODIs, but has been given hope after being retained as Delhi captain.

After falling out with the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) in February when its chief curator Venkat Sundaram accused him of using abusive language, there were fears that the dispute would affect his chances with India.

Chances with India

While India have been accused of being too easily influenced by smaller cricket boards within the country, in this case, Gambhir is being given a chance to impress selectors ahead of the ICC World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next year.

Gambhir has also made a name for himself in the Indian Premier League (IPL), captaining Kolkata Knight Riders.

BCCI’s hands tied

In truth, the Board of Cricket Control for India (BCCI) have enough to be dealing with even without Gambhir and Delhi’s conflict.

In the last week, the BCCI have become involved in a venomous spat with the West Indies, who prematurely withdrew from the series between the two.

Unsurprisingly, that is taking up much of India’s focus; although a series with Sri Lanka is now set to go ahead instead, the collapse of the West Indies tour has not been forgotten, with India set to sue for damages and lost earnings.

Keen eye

Nonetheless, India’s selectors will retain a keen eye on Delhi, with their squad featuring a number of hopefuls, including Ashish Nehra, Unmukt Chand, Rajat Bhatia, and veteran Virender Sehwag.

Of all Delhi’s potential Indian call-ups, Gambhir is the most vital. He has established himself as one of India’s finest openers of the last decade, winning the ICC Test Player of the Year award in 2009, as well as being ranked the number one Test batsman in the same year.

Overlooking Gambhir because of his feud with Delhi would be severely detrimental to India’s chances at the World Cup, and it would be a huge shock if that were a risk they are willing to take.

Angel di Maria concerns Manchester United with dead leg

Di Maria left the field with a groin complaint. (©GettyImages).

Manchester United may have been left sweating on the fitness of Angel di Maria after the winger was seen holding an ice pack to his groin after being substituted in the game against West Bromwich Albion.

Di Maria was one of the more impressive performers for Manchester United at the Hawthorns on Monday night, but was forced off in the 76th minute with the Red Devils still trailing 2-1. Daley Blind eventually equalised in the 87th minute, by which time Di Maria was already nursing his injury on the bench.

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Discomfort

The Mail reported that Di Maria was in obvious discomfort as he took his seat on the bench and the physio was sent to wrap his leg with the ice pack. Ahead of the crunch clash against Chelsea next weekend, there was immediate concern over Di Maria's availability for the game.

Di Maria is likely to be key to Van Gaal's plans to stop the table-toppers from continuing their scintillating form. Chelsea are currently five points clear at the top of the Premier League and a win at Old Trafford would take them 13 points clear of United.

Confident

However, according to Goal, Manchester United are confident that the Argentinian will be fit to face Jose Mourinho's unbeaten side when they travel to Old Trafford on Sunday.

The report claims that Di Maria suffered a dead leg and was withdrawn by Van Gaal as a precaution. The 26-year-old set to undergo a scan at Manchester United's Carrington training ground but expect him to recover in time to face Chelsea.

Great form

Di Maria has been in sensational form since joining from Real Madrid in the summer. The winger cost Manchester United £59.7 million in a transfer fee and now earns a reported £280,000-a-week.

In just five Premier League games, Di Maria has scored three goals and assisted four. His latest effort was to set up Marouane Fellaini for the equaliser on Monday night.

Andy Murray ready to fight in Valencia

Murray (©GettyImages).

Andy Murray is looking to build on his Vienna triumph when he arrives in Valencia later this week, where he will be hoping to secure a spot at the O2 for the ATP World Tour Finals.

Murray beat Ferrer in the final of last week's Vienna open meaning he overtook the Spaniard in the race to London, yet Ferrer still remains only 100 points behind the Scot.

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Tomas Berdych cemented his seventh place in the finals as he beat Grigor Dimitrov in Stockholm, leaving fewer spots to fight for in London.

Murray finds himself in an unusual situation, having qualified with ease in recent years, but injury has plagued his last year, leaving him having to fight his way into the top eight.

Murray in confident mood

"For the last few years I've managed to qualify for it [World Tour Finals] without having to play every week at the end of the year," he said after his win in Vienna.

"It's a different challenge and it's going to be interesting. There's no guarantee so i'll need to win more matches over the next few weeks, but i've given myself a good chance by winning here."

Swiss Indoor Championship

While Murray is competing in the Valencia Open, some of his competitors on the tour will be in Basle playing in the Swiss Indoor Championship.

The Scot is seeded 3rd in Spain, with rivals Ferrer and Berdych seeded 1st and 2nd respectively.

Other competitors Milos Raonic and Grigor Dimitrov, who are respectively ranked 10th and 11th on the tour, will be competing in Basle, where home favourite Roger Federer is the top seed.

Can Murray hold off the threat from Ferrer in the Spaniard's home country to prevent the 32-year-old from gaining the all coveted eighth spot?

West Indies foolish to withdraw from India series

Bravo informed the WICB of the players' decision. (©GettyImages).

The West Indies’ handling of their pay dispute has been foolish to say the least.
The Caribbean outfit’s tour with India was cut short after it was confirmed that Friday’s ODI would be the last.

Bizarrely, it was India who initially revealed the news, which the Windies then denied, but later confirmed. The strange series of events leading up to their withdrawal says a lot about the haphazard fashion in which the dispute has been handled.

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The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) have apologised to fans for the situation, but do not seem to fully comprehend the impact of the decision on their own team’s chances.

World Cup preparation

The cancellation of the tour is not only majorly disruptive to their preparation for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next year, it could have an impact on the players’ willingness to represent their country in the future.

Evidently, the extent to which the players are unhappy with the WICB is now close to being beyond repair. The once-mighty Windies have slipped to eighth in both the Test and ODI rankings, with little sign of them crawling back to the top. Undoubtedly, the divide between the board and the players is in no way helpful to that quest.

BCCI feud

Perhaps without realising it, the WICB have also now become embroiled in a further financial dispute; the Board for Cricket Control in India may now ask them to pay damages for the collapse of the series. In a statement, the BCCI also accused them of failing to take into account the relations between the two boards.

Windies pride

Only last week, Windies hero Viv Richards praised the players for their spirit in continuing in spite of their off-field difficulties. Now that has changed, it is the players, and not the board, who are coming under the spotlight. 

Captain Dwayne Bravo told reporters that while the decision to withdraw was down to the players, it will not affect their attitude going forward.

“Everyone has stuck together despite what’s going on. We’re looking forward to playing for the West Indies again soon”, he said.

It remains to be seen whether his words will come true, but the reality is, going into 2015, it is the reputation of West Indies Cricket as a whole that has been tarnished.

Rory McIlroy taking time off to focus on trial

McIlroy (©GettyImages).

World number one golfer Rory McIlroy will take a break from the game as he focuses on his upcoming trial over a legal dispute with former employers Horizon Sports Management.

McIlroy and his former agent have failed to come to an agreement over the financial aspects of the trial, after the Northern Irishman sued Horizon claiming a representation agreement signed by him almost three years ago is invalid and unenforceable on a number of grounds.

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He is also suing two other companies in Gurteen Limited and Canovan Management Services, on the same grounds, and it is believed that the star is trying to retain €7m through the trial.

All three companies deny the claims that McIlroy was too young - at 22 - when he signed the representation documents and that he did not have independent legal advice.

Earlier in October, Judge McGovern had suggested that both sides try to mediate the dispute, yet on Monday, a statement from McIlroy confirmed that "the court-directed mediation process failed over the weekend to resolve the issue."

The 25-year-old added that he needed time "to prepare for the trial over my legal dispute with Horizon Sports Management." He has pulled out of the BMW Masters and the WGC HSBC Champions next week to prepare, and will return to action at the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai from 20-23 November.

Having one two majors this year, The world number 1 will be looking to win a third consecutive major and complete the grand slam of winning all four major tournaments - and become only the sixth player ever to do so - when the Masters comes around in April.

Stephen Larkham knocks back Cheika appointment offer

Cheika (©GettyImages).

Having accepted the Wallabies coaching role on Monday, Michael Cheika's appointment has suffered a minor setback, with Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham deciding to put club before country as he plans to focus on taking his side to a Super Rugby title.

Cheika planned to bring in Larkham as an assistant coach to accompany him, as well as Michael Foley of the Western Force, but the former Wallaby didn't want the distraction of international duties, leaving Cheika still seeking a man to fill the position and complete his support staff.

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The Waratah's boss plans to juggle club commitments and international obligations over the coming year, and was hoping his assistant coaches could do the same in an attempt to unite the Australian States in preparation for next year's World Cup.

However, Larkham has not ruled out taking the job at a later date and has backed Cheika's philosophy of uniting the states.

Larkham comments

"I definitely have ambition to coach at that level. If you're a rugby coach you've always got ambition to be at the top level," Larkham said.

"Test level is a step up. To be coaching your national team would be something very special and a great opportunity. I have a lot of respect for [Cheika] and I think he'll do a fantastic job."

"I haven't ruled anything out after the spring tour, I certainly want to help the Wallabies provided it doesn't distract or detract from my role here at the Brumbies."

"It's a great concept with Super Rugby coaches coming together for the good of Australian rugby and then breaking apart to compete against each other. We all feel the same, we're trying to do our bit for Australian rugby."

Potential assistant

Former Brumbies Director of Rugby Laurie Fisher is said to be on the cards as a potential assistant to Cheika for the autumn internationals, having recently taken up a post at Gloucester.

"It's a pretty humbling experience to be asked to be involved in something like that, but we'll see what happens," Cheika said when speaking to the Media outside the Waratahs headquarters in Moore Park.

"There are a few things to be ironed out, obviously the logistics, etc ... everything is so close. So we will see how it goes and work it out from there."

Need for communication

The struggles with the appointment continue for the ARU. Cheika has one year left on his contract with the Super Rugby Champions, meaning the ARU have had to converse with the Waratah's board in order to strike a deal for their coach's services.

"I had a long chat with Bill [Pulver, ARU CEO] about a number of things. I am not going to repeat what they were about," Jason Allen, chief executive of the Waratahs, said. "All I will say is, if that were to eventuate with Michael Cheika [asked to coach the Wallabies], that's the position of the Waratahs board."

"We would want him to coach us next season, so we are willing to work with the ARU on the solution and wouldn't stop him obviously," Allen said. "I know Roger [Davis, Waratahs chairman] said we would definitely support him in advancing his career. There is no doubt about it."

The ARU are expected to announce the appointment of Cheika, and the Wallabies squad for the autumn internationals on Wednesday, with the squad meeting in Sydney on Thursday and flying out on Friday.

Australia kick off their European tour on November 1 when they take on the Barbarians at Twickenham.