The Ireland Women’s squad for the forthcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup in England has been named today.

Belgium captain Vincent Kompany has shrugged off a groin injury and will be ready to face Argentina in Saturday's World Cup quarter-final, coach Marc Wilmots has said.

Spain midfielder Xavi has announced his retirement from international football.

Liverpool striker Luis Suarez has undergone minor knee surgery and has not been ruled out of the World Cup, the Uruguay Football Association announced today.

Italy goalkeeper and captain Gianluigi Buffon will miss his side's opening World Cup Group D match against England in Manaus tonight.

The official noise-makers for next year's World Cup in Brazil will be significantly quieter than the vuvuzela horns that caused so many headaches in 2010, researchers say.

Chelsea’s Lucas Piazon has criticised his team-mates’ attitude during yesterday’s Club World Cup final defeat to Corinthians, claiming his fellow Brazilians were the only ones to have put in the required effort.

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has provisionally included Robbie Brady in the team to play Sweden in the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup Qualifier in Sweden tomorrow.

Australia have blundered on the eve of Saturday’s World Cup final by accidentally revealing elements of their game-plan for dethroning New Zealand.

Australia have made one change for Saturday’s World Cup final against New Zealand after Scott Sio completed his recovery from an elbow injury.

’Arry has a sneaking fancy for Ireland as a value World Cup punt.

Toulon rugby director Philippe Saint-Andre looks set to succeed Marc Lievremont as France coach after the upcoming World Cup.

FT: Ireland 15 Australia 6

Barcelona striker David Villa will undergo surgery to repair his broken shinbone on Monday, the club have confirmed.

Former Ireland boss Eddie O’Sullivan is to stand down from his role as United States head coach after deciding not to reapply for the position.

Defending UAE League champions Al Ahli have announced the shock signing of Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro on a two-year deal.

Animal Kingdom, impressive winner of this year’s Kentucky Derby, will not race again this season.

England’s 2018 World Cup bid received a huge boost today after Vladimir Putin, prime minister of Russia, confirmed he would not be travelling to Zurich for the World Cup vote.

Arsenal defender William Gallas is confident he will be fit to play for France at the World Cup.

Tottenham have submitted a planning application with Haringey Council for their new 56,250-capacity stadium on land adjacent to White Hart Lane.