Croke Park, February 28, 2009: A headless English half-back charges an Irish prop between the shoulder blades.

Pep Guardiola was likened, by The Guardian columnist Raphael Honigstein, to Spanish clothing retailer Zara this week — a comparison first made by ex-Barcelona treasurer Xavier Sala-i-Martín.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon admits he will miss the Old Firm rivalry following the loss of Rangers from the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.

Rangers have failed in a calculated attempt to make Kevin Thomson available for tonight’s Active Nation Scottish Cup quarter-final replay at Dundee United after the Scottish Football Association dismissed an appeal against his sending-off in Sunday’s Co-operative Insurance Cup final.

David Fernandez has apologised for the part he played in the injury that looks set to end Kevin Thomson’s season.

Rangers skipper Barry Ferguson was thrilled to reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup last night – even though his performance will earn him a slap from boss Walter Smith.

Uncapped Harlequins wing David Strettle has been summoned to join preparations for England’s RBS 6 Nations showdown with Ireland after Jason Robinson suffered a neck injury in training.

England have suffered an injury scare ahead ahead of Saturday’s RBS 6 Nations showdown with Ireland after wing Jason Robinson was hurt during training.

Harry Redknapp has admitted he was ready to let former England striker Andrew Cole leave Fratton Park for a transfer deadline-day move to Everton just six months after joining Portsmouth.

Stephane Henchoz and David Thompson have been released by Wigan.

John Hartson admits that the Old Firm stars have a big duty to keep their discipline at Parkhead on Sunday.

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has confirmed midfielder Alan Thompson will miss the crucial Champions League trip to Shakhtar Donetsk on October 20.

LIVERPOOL assistant coach Phil Thompson has parted company with the club. His Anfield role had been uncertain after the departure of manager Gerard Houllier and appointment of Rafael Benitez.

Sven-Goran Eriksson has told Celtic’s Alan Thompson he could still make the squad for the Euro 2004 finals.

Celtic striker Chris Sutton has conceded he has no chance of playing for England.

Martin O’Neill has cautiously claimed Celtic’s Old Firm derby win over Rangers has only given his side “a bit of respite” – despite moving 11 points clear in the Bank of Scotland Premier League.

Dietmar Hamann cannot wait for Gerard Houllier to return to Anfield full-time.