Ajax’s first defeat of the season, a 3-1 home reverse today at the hands of NAC Breda, meant they were unable to overtake champions PSV Eindhoven at the top of the Dutch Eredivisie.

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso is clinging to the hope that he can return from injury in time for the Merseyside derby at Everton in 12 days’ time.

ITALY midfielder Daniele De Rossi scored a second-half penalty as Roma beat Internazionale to win the Supercoppa at the San Siro last night.

Ajax moved to within three points of Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven with a 3-0 win over struggling Heracles Almelo.

Heracles Almelo striker Everton has been hit by another injury which could keep him out until the end of the month.

DUTCH giants Ajax’s faltering title hopes were dealt another blow on Saturday but Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven got back on track for a third successive crown with three points against ADO Den Haag.

A DREADFUL mistake from Barcelona keeper Victor Valdes gifted Valencia all three points and cut Frank Rijkaard’s side’s lead at the top of La Liga to six points at the Mestella last night.