Birmingham midfielder Damien Johnson will captain Northern Ireland when he wins his 50th cap in tomorrow’s World Cup qualifier against Poland.

Damien Duff was tonight ruled out of the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup qualifiers against Bulgaria and Italy through injury.

England striker Harry Kane leads the race for the Golden Boot after scoring six goals in the opening games of the World Cup in Russia, two ahead of his nearest rival, Belgium’s Romelu Lakaku.

One Paddy Power customer is €10,000 richer today after successfully predicting France v Croatia ’s half-time and full-time scores in the World Cup final.

With the Rugby World Cup final fast approaching, fans from both countries have been busy trying to outdo each other in terms of who has the best supporters.

France captain Raphael Ibanez has been cited following an alleged stamping incident during last night’s World Cup bronze medal match defeat against Argentina at Parc des Princes.

Republic of Ireland doubt Damien Duff came through a full training session in Switzerland this morning, raising hopes that he will start against the Swiss in tomorrow night's World Cup qualifier in Basle.

PSV Eindhoven manager Guus Hiddink has been appointed as the new coach of the Australian national team.

A Kevin Maggs try in the 52nd minute got Ireland on the scoreboard in their World Cup quarter-final showdown with France in Melbourne.

Scotland international Gregor Townsend should be back in action in time for the World Cup in Australia next month.

Wasps fly-half Alex King was today ruled out of England’s World Cup plans after suffering a knee injury.

Jason McAteer is a major doubt for Ireland's World Cup opener against Cameroon next Saturday.

England international Charlie Hodgson looks certain to miss the World Cup later this year after being ruled out of action for six months.

Alpay has dismissed rumours he is set for a summer switch to Galatasaray from Aston Villa.

Ronaldinho is free to play in the World Cup final should Brazil get there after his ban was today confirmed as just one match.

Sven-Goran Eriksson has admitted Brazil are World Cup favourites as the countries prepare to meet in Friday's quarter-final.

Tottenham's Stephen Carr will miss the World Cup finals after suffering a relapse as he recovers from a knee injury.

Ireland manager Mick McCarthy has confirmed that Niall Quinn, who celebrates his 35th birthday on Saturday, will definitely be named in the starting 11 for the final World Cup qualifier against Cyprus.

Andy Cole's first international goal helped England to a priceless 3-1 World Cup win over Albania in Tirana.