THE return of Patrice Evra and Franck Ribery failed to inspire France as, for the second time in their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign, they laboured to a 2-0 win over Luxembourg in Group D.

Serbia 2 N Ireland 1

Johnny Gorman made his first competitive start for Northern Ireland as Nigel Worthington’s side attempted to extend their unbeaten run in Group C to four matches in a deserted Crvena Zvezda Stadium.

Fulham have vowed to move quickly to appoint a new manager after Martin Jol confirmed this morning that he will be staying at Ajax.

Fulham will today continue their mission to persuade Ajax to permit manager Martin Jol to leave for Craven Cottage.

FULHAM endured another frustrating day in their pursuit of Martin Jol as attempts to lure him away from the Netherlands continued to be foiled by Ajax.

Ajax coach Martin Jol will hold further talks with the board of the Amsterdam club this morning as Fulham continue their pursuit of the former Tottenham man.

FULHAM’S pursuit of Martin Jol continues to be frustrated by Ajax’s refusal to discuss compensation for the release of their manager.

MARKO PANTELIC missed a glorious late chance to send Serbia into the World Cup second round last night.

Australia 2 Serbia 1

Serbia midfielder Milos Krasic is keen to secure a move to Italy after the World Cup.

Vojvodina Novi Sad goalkeeper Zeljko Brkic was the unlucky man to miss out as Serbia coach Radomir Antic today trimmed his 24-man party down to the final 23 names who will make the trip to South Africa.

All three Italian sides in action recorded impressive victories in the opening round of UEFA Cup group matches this evening.

Hertha Berlin 2 St Patrick's Athletic 0

Schoolboy memories came flooding back for Republic of Ireland winger Stephen Kelly as he watched Glenn Whelan arrive on the senior international stage.

Republic of Ireland 1 Serbia 1

RONALDINHO scored a sensational overhead kick as Barcelona thrashed Villarreal 4-0 at the Nou Camp to stay at the top of La Liga.

TWO first-half goals from striker Ebi Smolarek gave Poland a shock 2-1 win over Group A favourites Portugal in Chorzow.

France moved level on points with Euro 2008 qualifying Group B leaders Scotland, after a 5-0 trouncing of the Faroe Islands in Sochaux tonight.

Finland failed to take advantage of a numerical advantage as 10-men Portugal earned a 1-1 draw in their opening Group A Euro 2008 qualifier.

Werder Bremen opened the door for Hamburg to re-enter the Bundesliga title race by beating leaders Bayern Munich 3-0 on Saturday.