The France Football Federation believe the controversy of their World Cup qualification should be put aside following FIFA’s decision that the play-off against the Republic of Ireland will not be replayed.

Russia coach Guus Hiddink will not lead another team to the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa, the Dutchman has revealed.

England captain John Terry is a major doubt for England’s World Cup qualifier with Kazakhstan on Saturday – meaning Rio Ferdinand could get the chance to lead his country once again.

Argentina coach Diego Maradona will not lose any sleep if Scotland assistant Terry Butcher does not shake his hand at the end of tomorrow’s friendly at Hampden.

The idea of Ireland hosting Euro 2020 was mooted by the FAI last year. Ireland has also been suggested as a host for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

FORMER Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder David Ginola is suing his one-time France coach Gerard Houllier.

PRESSURE is growing on FIFA to launch a full investigation into fresh allegations that six executive committee members asked for bribes or favours, including a knighthood, in return for World Cup votes.

FORMER German star Dietmar Hamann believes England’s inability to keep possession will be their downfall at the World Cup finals.

THE Japan Rugby Union have denied any involvement in the legal attempt made last week to have the result of the 2011 World Cup vote annulled.

BRAZIL star Ronaldo is splitting from his wife and has complained that footballers were portrayed in his homeland as ignorant.

A REBEL “Super 14” style breakaway by many of Europe’s top clubs is on the cards.

STEVEN GERRARD has described England’s performance in Denmark as ‘a shambles’ and urged manager Sven-Goran Eriksson to call an emergency meeting to discuss problems arising from an embarrassing 4-1 defeat.

Owen Farrell displayed his true "controlled" temperament in England's stunning 32-20 win over Ireland in Dublin, according to Mike Ford.

Wales want to put down an immediate marker in terms of their discipline when they face opening World Cup warm-up opponents Ireland tomorrow.

Jonathan Sexton has no doubt Ireland’s best is yet to come as they approach the Rugby World Cup and the out-half believes the team can do just that by embracing the attacking approach that cut Scotland to shreds last March and retained the Six Nations title.

Brian Ashton accepts England face “a massive challenge” in their quest to create World Cup history tonight.

Scotland head coach Frank Hadden believes his World Cup squad is the “most competitive” he could have selected.