Preparations for the 2016 Olympics remain behind schedule
A senior IOC figure insists there is no alternative to staging the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro despite chronic delays causing a "critical" situation in the host city.
John Coates, an IOC vice-president and president of the Australian Olympic committee (AOC), delivered a devastating blast at the state of Rio's preparations.
He described the preparations as "the worst I have experienced" and "worse than Athens [the 2004 hosts]" but said there was "no plan B".
Coates, a member of the IOC co-ordination commission monitoring Rio's preparations, said: "We have become very concerned. They are not ready in many, many ways. We have to make it happen and that is the IOC approach - you can't walk away from this.
"The IOC has formed a special task force to try and speed up preparations, but the situation is critical on the ground. The IOC has adopted a more hands-on role. It is unprecedented for the IOC, but there is no plan B. We are going to Rio."
Speaking at an Olympic Forum in Sydney, in comments reported on the AOC's website, Coates revealed that construction has not even started at some venues, that infrastructure work is significantly delayed and that water quality is a major concern.
Coates added: "The city also has social issues that need to be addressed."
"We have become very concerned. They are not ready in many, many ways."
He also claimed that Games organisers were "fobbing off" IOC inspectors when they asked for specific information, and that only two staff were working in the test event department with tournaments due to start this year.
"No-one is able to give answers at the moment," Coates added.
"Can they use the car parks in the village for recovery centres? What will be the time to take from this venue to this venue?
"All of those things, they're being fobbed off."
The IOC has not faced such a crisis with an Olympic host city since Athens in 2004, where work continued until the very last minute before it was finally able to stage the Games.
Earlier this month, sports federations demanded a back-up plan to Rio because of the chronic delays and IOC president Thomas Bach promised action to stave off the crisis, sending in Olympic Games director Gilbert Felli as a troubleshooter.
Rio's mayor Eduardo Paes has hit back at the complaints, saying the sports federations were making too many unnecessary demands but that he will not bow to their pressure.
Ronnie O'Sullivan claimed seven of the eight frames in the morning to defeat Shaun Murphy 13-3 with a session to spare and reach the World Championship semi-finals.
Murphy had claimed the first two frames on Tuesday but O'Sullivan won the rest to establish a 6-2 overnight lead and he added the opening two on Wednesday morning to stretch his advantage.
Murphy, the 2005 champion, got a frame back in the 11th but O'Sullivan followed that with a break of 118 to take a 9-3 lead into the mid-session interval.
The restart was delayed for a short while due to a problem with the scoreboard and when play resumed O'Sullivan made a break of 59 before giving Murphy a glimmer of hope.
Murphy looked to be heading for a rare frame success but missed a routine pink and O'Sullivan gratefully took the opportunity to extend his lead further.
A missed green off the spot in the next frame summed up Murphy's performance as five-time champion O'Sullivan again capitalised, closing out a comprehensive victory with the minimum of fuss.
Earlier, Mark Selby breezed through to the semis after claiming the one remaining frame he needed against Alan McManus.
The Leicester cueman came into the session with a commanding 12-4 lead and veteran McManus won the opening frame with a break of 69 to extend the contest.
The Scot was among the balls again early in the 18th frame before losing position on 20, opening the door for Selby.
A missed red to the middle from the 2007 finalist allowed McManus back to the table. He could not take advantage, though, and Selby closed out a 13-5 win to advance to a semi-final against either Judd Trump or Neil Robertson.
"I think it was four years ago since I was in the semi-final before so it seems like forever with so many tournaments now during the season," Selby told BBC Two.
"I'm looking forward to it and can't wait to get out there."
Dani Alves said he would like to see more done to punish the fan who threw the banana
Spanish police have detained the Villarreal supporter who threw a banana on the pitch near Barcelona defender Daniel Alves on Sunday and charged him with a "breach of fundamental rights and civil liberties".
Images of Alves, a Brazil international, picking up the banana and taking a bite during the La Liga match were beamed around the world and he was widely backed by fellow players and other public figures who denounced the apparent racist taunt.
A 26-year-old man was taken into custody on Tuesday evening before being charged and released and would be appearing before a judge at a yet-to-be-determined date, a police spokeswoman said on Wednesday.
Villarreal announced they had given the supporter a life ban but Alves, who has criticised the level of racism in Spain before, felt it was not enough.
"If I could, I would put a photo of the fan on the internet so that he would be shamed," Alves told Brazil's Radio Globo.
"There is racism against foreigners," he added. "They sell the country as being first world but in certain things they are very backward."
A shot of the 2009 league final final featuring Kilkenny and Tipperary
Audio
By James McMahon
There is no denying that the Kilkenny and Tipperary hurling rivalry is one that more often than not lights up the GAA scene.
While not a classic, last year's championship clash between the counties is still fondly remembered by the near full-capacity crowd that assembled in Nowlan Park on that Saturday evening in early July.
A genuine classic
Cast your mind back a little further to 2009 and that year's All-Ireland final. Some will argue that it was the greatest game in the modern era. Kilkenny, courtesy of two late goals, one as a result of a contentious penalty decision, wore down the Tipperary challenge on a 2-22 to 0-23 scoreline.
Tipp would get their revenge a year later in the September showdown, with Kilkenny proving masterful again when the counties met in the 2011 final.
'Babs' inspires Tipp
Those of a certain vintage will clearly recall a bare-footed Michael 'Babs' Keating in action for the Premier County in the 1971 decider. It was a game that saw ten goals and victory for Tipperary by a three-point margin.
20-years would elapse before the sides clashed renewed hostilities in the championship. Not surprisingly it was in another battle to claim Liam MacCarthy. 'Babs' was now the Tipp manager and the county's fortunes were on the rise again after the 'famine' that followed their '71 success.
A miss-hit free from Michael Cleary early in the second half found its way to the back of the Kilkenny net. That score proved to be decisive as Tipperary ran out 1-16 to 0-15 winners.
Cats enjoying the cream
While these hurling heavyweights have made the headlines in high summer, their clashes in league finals have been no less enthralling. This has certainly been the case over the last decade with the counties meeting in three deciders.
Kilkenny have had the upper hand in all three. The latest of which came last year in Nowlan Park when Cody's men ran out 2-17 to 0-20 winners. Ten years previously Croke Park was the venue and fans were treated to a Bank Holiday Monday goal-fest in what was a game to savour. Kilkenny prevailed by the bare minimum - 5-14 to 5-13.
However, the 2009 final in Thurles heads the trio in terms of overall quality and drama. A magnificent long-range point from Eddie Brennan put the seal on a Kilkenny victory in a match that went to extra-time and yielded 49 scores.
The report below, along with RTE's match highlights, captures the excitement from that clash five years ago.
2009 Allianz Hurling League Final - Kilkenny 2-26 Tipperary 4-17 (AET)
Tipperary led for the majority of this absorbing game but faded in extra-time after the two teams finished locked on 2-17 to 3-14 after 70 minutes in Semple Stadium.
James Woodlock, John O'Brien, Seamus Callanan and Noel McGrath hit the Tipp goals, while Richie Hogan, who finished with a personal tally of 1-10, and Aidan Fogarty found the net for Kilkenny.
The match was played at Championship pace, with plenty of niggle and hard hitting. And both sides had a man yellow-carded in the opening period when Tipp's Declan Fanning and Kilkenny's Martin Comerford were punished for manhandling each other.
Seamus Callanan was performing well at centre-forward for Tipp and his huge wind-assisted point from a free behind his own 65-metre line helped ensure the then defending league champions led by 2-07 to 0-08 at the break.
Everyone expected Kilkenny to come out strongly in the second half, but it was Tipp who scored first after the resumption as Callanan's low shot after taking a handpass from the excellent Lar Corbett, evaded Cats goalkeeper PJ Ryan's stick and went into the corner of the net.
But the Black and Amber delivered the perfect response when moments later Richie Hogan blasted past Tipp netminder Brendan Cummins from an acute angle.
A handpass from Shefflin set up Hogan and it would prove to be the 'King Henry's' last positive impact as he was yellow-carded and had to leave the field on 41 minutes after he came in late and high on Shane McGrath.
Hogan assumed the free-taking responsibilities, and also contributed a brilliant point from play in the 48th minute he split the posts with a shot straight off his hurl.
And two minutes later Kilkenny grabbed their second goal when Aidan Fogarty sent a rasping shot across the bows of Cummins and into the corner of the net.
The Cats should have lost the services of Tommy Walsh in the 56th minute when he somehow avoided censure for throwing his hurl at John O'Brien as the Tipperary captain was in the process of scoring a point.
It took Kilkenny until the 68th to draw level, with Fogarty the man to hit the target after good work from Michael Grace along the end line.
Kilkenny appeared to have clinched the game when Hogan landed a fantastic free from the 65 metre line out at the right sideline, but Noel McGrath equalised for Tipp' with a free of his own.
Liam Sheedy's side claimed their fourth goal just before half-time in extra time when Corbett passed to McGrath who buried the sliotar into the back of the net.
There were many highlights in this game, and one came two minutes after the restart when TJ Reid converted a sideline cut from a huge distance out. Three more points from Hogan and one from Eoin Larkin had Kilkenny a goal ahead heading into injury time.
Cummins ventured up the pitch to try and convert a 25-metre free, but he blazed over the bar and Tipp's chances of retaining their title had gone.
There was just enough time for another special moment, however, as Eddie Brennan wrapped up the scoring with a monster drive from fully 100 yards.
Tipp seek overdue victory
This year's league saw the age-old rivals produce another blockbuster as Kilkenny came from ten points behind to win on a 5-20 to 5-14 scoreline.
Something similar, with the result still in doubt late on, would do nicely on Sunday.
A win for Tipperary would represent the end of another famine as they haven't beaten Kilkenny in a League final since 1968.
Live coverage and updates of all the day's GAA action from 14:00 on Sunday 4 May on RTÉ Radio 1, RTÉ RnaG and RTÉ.ie (Worldwide). Television highlights on League Sunday from 19:30 on RTÉ Two and RTE.ie (Ireland only)
Niall Ronan said that it had been an honour to play for Munster
Munster flanker Niall Ronan will retire from professional rugby at the end of the current season after failing to recover from a knee injury.
Ronan sustained the injury to his right knee in training last October.
He said it has been a "huge honour" to play for Munster, adding: "I'm very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to play with Munster Rugby and I truly enjoyed the experience."
The 31-year-old underwent an unsuccessful two-month rehabilitation period for the injury and required surgery before Christmas.
Ronan joined Munster at the start of the 2007/08 season and was one of seven current squad members with over 100 caps for the province.
A former Leinster player, Ronan won four international caps, having made his debut against the USA in August 2007.
Jose Mourinho has no intentions of changing his side's defensive mindset
Jose Mourinho has vowed to stick to his footballing principles despite recent criticisms as he bids to guide Chelsea to the Champions League final with victory over Atletico Madrid.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers was among the fiercest critics of Mourinho's methods after Chelsea's 2-0 Premier League win at Anfield on Sunday, but congratulated his former mentor on the success on the eve the Blues' semi-final second leg at Stamford Bridge.
Mourinho is in the last four for a fifth successive season and aiming to win the European Cup with a third different club after the 2004 triumph with Porto and 2010 win with Inter Milan.
Standing in his way is Atletico after a goalless first leg, with his former club Real Madrid awaiting the victors in the May 24 final in Lisbon after their stunning 5-0 aggregate success over defending champions Bayern Munich.
"In this moment football is full of philosophers, full of people that understand much more than me," Mourinho said.
"The reality is always the reality. A team that doesn't defend well, doesn't have many chances to win.
"A team that doesn't score a lot of goals, if (it) concede lots of goals it's completely in trouble. A team without balance is not a team.
"When Atletico have the ball we have to defend; when we have the ball we have to attack.
"When they have the ball we have to try to stop them scoring; when we have the ball we have to try to score.
"This is the football that I know. (When the) opponent has the ball you have to work defensively, you have to be organised .
"You have the ball you have to try to play according to the qualities of your players and your opponent.
"In this moment - depending on the coach and the club - the critics speak.
"If your opponents are very fast on the counter and want space behind your defensive line, if you give them that space you are stupid."
A strong defensive display is of paramount importance if the Blues are to advance to a third European final in three seasons following the 2012 Champions League triumph and last season's Europa League win.
Captain John Terry missed both showpiece occasions - the first suspended, the second injured - but is fit to feature after an ankle injury. Goalkeeper Petr Cech (shoulder) is out.
Mourinho believes his talisman deserves to play in another Champions League final after missing the decisive penalty in 2008 before lifting the trophy in his playing kit in Munich two years ago despite not taking part in the match.
"The Champions League owes him something," Mourinho said.
Terry felt his chance of European glory had gone with his Moscow miss which handed Manchester United the trophy before his trophy-lifting in Munich went viral on the internet.
"It meant an awful lot to me that night, playing or not playing," said Terry, who is in discussions over a contract extension but ruled out an England return.
"I felt as though I contributed and so did many other players who didn't play and didn't get as much stick as me at the time."
Live coverage of Chelsea v Atletico Madrid on RTÉ Two from 7.45pm and online at rte.ie/sport (RoI only).
Written By Unknown on Selasa, 29 April 2014 | 23.06
Updated: Tuesday, 29 Apr 2014 16:27 | Comments
Mark Selby holds a 4-3 lead over Alan McManus
Mark Selby held on to take a 4-3 lead following the first session of his Dafabet World Snooker Championship quarter-final against Alan McManus in Sheffield.
The 30-year-old from Leicester, who won a battle of former Crucible beaten finalists as he saw off a fightback from Ali Carter to record a 13-9 victory in the last 16, impressed with a century break during the sixth frame to level the match for the second time before claiming the final frame of the session.
McManus earlier fought his way back from two frames down and took the lead with victory in the fifth before Selby won the next two to reclaim his advantage ahead of Tuesday evening.
McManus, who survived a comeback to see off fellow veteran Ken Doherty 13-8 in the last 16, easily lost the first frame before forcing a difficult end to the second where - after a lengthy safety exchange - Selby finally potted the pink to take a 2-0 lead.
But the 43-year-old Scot, once again wearing his tartan trousers at the Crucible, managed to break back into the match with victory in the next two frames to level at 2-2 before claiming the next one to take control for the first time.
The 2007 runner-up Selby, though, hit back with a 110 break and took the sixth frame then edged 4-3 ahead following the seventh before the players were taken off the table one frame early. The match will resume on Tuesday evening.
Barry Hawkins raced to a 4-1 advantage over Dominic Dale in their last-eight clash, eventually taking a comfortable 6-2 lead into the evening action.
Hawkins, who managed to hold off Ricky Walden 13-11 to progress on Saturday, looked like there was no stopping him as he took the first two frames before Dale pulled one back.
The world number four continued to battle on and will be pleased to start the next session with a dominant lead.
Keith Long is a former Bray Wanderers player and manager
Athlone Town have appointed Keith Long as manager to replace Mick Cooke, who resigned on Monday.
The appointment was announced in a statement posted on the club's website.
"Keith has a long history in League of Ireland and is a former Bray Wanderers player, assistant manager and manager where he took over from Pat Devlin in 2011," the statement said.
"In his playing career Keith played for Stoke City, Dundalk and St Patrick's Athletic where he won a League medal. He has over 200 appearances to his credit. Keith is a holder of an UEFA 'PRO' License."
Long will be assisted by Eddie Wallace, who joins from St Patrick's Athletic.
Athlone's first game under the new management team will be against Bray Wanderers on Friday.
Cooke stepped down by mutual consent following Athlone's terrible start to the season, in which they lost their first ten league games.
Dublin are strong favourites to retain Sam Maguire
Dublin are justified favourites to retain the Sam Maguire trophy but will have to shed the shackles of history to do so, according to Kevin McStay.
Looking ahead to this year's Championship for RTÉ Sport, McStay and Tomás Ó Sé said that Dublin were strong, all the more so after their comprehensive League Division 1 victory.
LEINSTER
McStay agreed that everyone expected Dublin to win, "and what can I say – they probably will."
He said Leinster looked fairly nailed on for Dublin, "[even though] I don't want to be disrespectful to any other county."
The draw favoured Dublin, McStay said, although he said Laois would be a danger in the top half, as would Meath and Kildare in the bottom half of the draw. "Beyond that, I don't see a lot of threat."
Overall, McStay said that Dublin versus Meath might be the pairing "you'd be looking out for".
However, McStay made the point that retaining Championship title is "so, so difficult to do".
"Champions don't have a good record in the Sam Maguire over the last 30 years. That is a fact, and that is the little thread everybody can hold on to, as the Championship comes into focus. That's the nature of it.
"It looks like Dublin [will win], but, is that lazy [analysis]? Perhaps it is."
Ó Sé identified Dublin's resilience and ability to deliver results as potentially crucial elements in their quest for back-to-back titles.
"Sometimes in your head, mentally, you might think that you're okay, and you might think that you're doing the same things right, and you might think that the team are performing the same way, but that very often doesn't happen.
"It's only afterwards, when you look back, that you can say you're not mentally right.
"Dublin [are mentally right], from what I've seen this year, and the comebacks that they have [achieved]."
Ó Sé highlighted as evidence of this resilience Dublin's performances against Tyrone, Mayo and Cork in the League
"That experience, I suppose, that wasn't there in 2012 is there now. Talking to them during the year, you get a sense from them that they won't be happy until they do a back-to-back."
MUNSTER
Ó Sé said that "Kerry and Cork are a small little bit ahead" of the other sides in Munster.
"Cork are the form team in Munster at the moment. They had a great, great League, under new management as well, so they'll be a bit hungry. They've a few good young players as well.
"But Kerry will be there or thereabouts. Kerry love the Munster Championship."
He pointed out that if they do get to the final, it will be in Páirc Uí Chaoimh, where Kerry have not won for a few years, suggesting that this would be an added incentive, but stressed that Kerry were not taking any victory for granted."
ULSTER
McStay agreed Ulster was the toughest provincial championship to predict, and said the top half of the draw loaded with the better teams.
The winner of the quarter-final clash between Derry and Donegal was likely to make the Ulster final, he said, "certainly on paper".
But he stressed that "none of matches are ever won on paper. You have to go out and win them, and Ulster Championship is [outrageously competitive], again."
CONNACHT
McStay agreed that Mayo were likely to come out of Connacht victorious, but he denied that it would be as straightforward as many people were predicting.
"Leitrim are going to have a say about what Roscommon do, and Roscommon, in their heads, are going to have a big say about what Mayo do, and when that's all done and dusted Sligo think they'll have a say about Galway, and then, is it a Mayo-Galway final?
"I'd say it probably is, but not without a big say from what Roscommon might produce down the road. But they first of all have to beat Leitrim, which is a local derby."
Peter Cherrie turned in a fine display against Bray even though his side were beaten
Goalkeeper Peter Cherrie (Dundalk) Cherrie could do little to prevent Dave Scully's goal as Dundalk suffered a surprise 1-0 against Bray but he turned in an outstanding solo display from start to finish and were it not for his efforts in the Lillywhites goal, the margin of defeat would have been greater.
Defence Simon Madden (Shamrock Rovers) The rampaging right back turned in a fine attacking display against Drogheda. His overlapping runs down the flanks stretched the Drogs throughout and his deliveries from out wide led to two Rovers goals.
Alan Keane (Sligo Rovers) Sligo's revival continues apace and their newly rediscovered defensive solidity has been a big factor. Keane impressed against Limerick, always quick in the tackle and positionally astute, as well as helping in attack.
Jeff Henderson (Sligo Rovers) Like Keane, Henderson was solid at the back in his side's victory over Limerick. Less prone to venturing forward, Henderson was always in the right place at the right time and was able to help snuff out several Limerick attacks before they could develop.
Midfield Billy Dennehy (Cork City) The midfielder has been in excellent form for Cork City of late and was one of the Leesiders' main threats throughout the rain-soaked clash with Bohemians. He was calmness personified for City's latest penalty kick and gave Lee Murphy no chance with his powerful, well-placed strike.
Dave Scully (Bray Wanderers) Several eyebrows were raised when Alan Mathews decided to deploy the striker on the wing a couple of games into the season but Scully continues to impress in his new role. His industry and willingness to track back went along way to minimising the threat of Daryl Horgan while his header proved to be the difference between the sides.
Cathal Brady (Drogheda Utd) A real live-wire for Drogheda on the right flank, he gave young Rovers full-back Sean Heaney a testing first half, to such an extent that Heaney was replaced by Luke Byrne at the interval. Brady provided the cross for Gavin Brennan's header which struck the post.
Ronan Finn (Shamrock Rovers) Rovers weren't firing on all cylinders against Drogheda, but as ever their midfield maestro Finn was a joy to watch, not least when he fired the Hoops into an early lead with a peach of a strike.
Forwards Jason Byrne (Bohemians) On a tough night for Bohemians Byrne helped his side take a point in Cork. The veteran striker was at his very best for his goal when he ducked the constant attention of Dan Murray to get his head on the end of an excellent ball from Paddy Kavanagh. He was involved in almost all of his side's attacking play and also forced Mark McNulty in a decent second-half save.
Chris Fagan (St Pat's) The stand out performer in his side's 4-0 victory over bottom side Athlone, Fagan claimed a brace of goals and was a constant threat. His intelligent movement not only saw him get on the score-sheet but helped to create time and space for others.
Ismahil Akinade (Bray Wanderers) While he didn't get on the scoresheet in his side's triumph against Dundalk, Akinde played a big role in that win. A strong and willing target man, he worked tirelessly to hold up the ball and bring his team-mates into play and would have scored himself were it not for some fine Peter Cherrie saves.
Michael Swift and Mata Fifita have signed contract extensions with the IRFU that will see them play another year with Connacht.
Swift, Connacht's longest serving player, has chalked up an impressive 262 caps for the province and also holds the Celtic League record with 180 appearances. This will be the lock's 15th season with the province.
Also playing at the Sportsground next season will be backrow forward Mata Fifita. This will be the third Connacht season for the 25-year-old Tongan who was picked straight from AIL club side Sligo RFC in 2011.
Despite some season-disrupting injuries, Fifita has played 15 games for Connacht, including three Heineken Cup appearances, and also had a significant involvement with the Eagles' side in both season's British & Irish Cup.
"I'm excited about finishing off this current season on a high and being part of another Connacht squad going forward" - Michael Swift
Commenting on Swift, coach head coach Pat Lam said: "Swifty continues to defy the years and prove himself as a true Connacht man.
"His work ethic, passion and commitment to Connacht Rugby is inspirational to the management, players, sponsors and supporters.
"When myself and Dan (McFarland) sat down with him recently, it was evident how much he wants this contract.
"He is still so hungry to play and we know that he will continue to push hard in training and fight for a place while also leading the squad.
"Swifty is, and always will be, a fantastic ambassador for this club."
Swift added: "I'm delighted to have another year of rugby with Connacht to look forward to.
"Every year there are progressive changes happening at the club. I think there is something special happening here at the moment so I just want to be part of it for as long as possible.
"I'm excited about finishing off this current season on a high and being part of another Connacht squad going forward."
Ruby Walsh celebrates winning the Ladbrokes World Series Hurdle at Punchestown on Quevega
Quevega is one of 10 declarations for the Ladbrokes World Series Hurdle at Punchestown on Thursday.
Willie Mullins' incredible mare etched her name into the history books by winning the OLBG Mares' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival for the sixth consecutive season when she battled past stablemate Glens Melody.
She will be attempting a fifth straight win against the boys at this meeting.
Glens Melody is once again in opposition, as is another stablemate, Mourad.
The challenge from Britain is strong, with At Fishers Cross, the mount of Tony McCoy, and the Philip Hobbs-trained Pertemps Hurdle winner Fingal Bay supplemented by Knockara Beau and Reve De Sivola.
Bog Warrior reverts to hurdling for Tony Martin, while Jessica Harrington's Jetson and the Henry de Bromhead-trained Sadler's Risk complete the field.
Written By Unknown on Senin, 28 April 2014 | 23.07
Updated: Monday, 28 Apr 2014 16:09 | Comments
Neymar has come out to back his team-mate Dani Alves who received racist abuse from Villareal fans
Dani Alves' unconventional handling of the racist abuse he suffered during Barcelona's Primera Division match at Villarreal received growing support on social media on Monday as his fellow professionals posted images of themselves posing with bananas.
The likes of Sergio Aguero, Neymar and women's superstar Marta took to Twitter and Instagram to show their backing for the Brazil defender's actions, which took place during the second half of Barca's dramatic 3-2 comeback win at El Madrigal on Sunday night.
In response to a banana being thrown onto the pitch in front of him as he prepared to take a corner, Alves nonchalantly picked it up, peeled it and took a bite before continuing with the game.
The 30-year-old has been the victim of racist abuse before during his time in La Liga and he said after the match: "You need to take these situations with a dose of humour. I've spent 11 years in Spain and it's been the same for 11 years. You need to take it almost as a joke and laugh at these retards."
Alves' unusual reaction to Sunday's incident has hit the headlines and seen him receive increasing support from the world of football.
His Barca and Brazil team-mate Neymar led the way after posting a picture on Instagram of himself holding a banana on Sunday night while writing "We are all monkeys", and on Monday that image had been replicated by several other players.
Argentina and Manchester City striker Aguero followed suit with a picture of him and Brazil women's superstar Marta taking a bite from bananas, accompanied with the message: "With my colleague Marta from Brazil we say #NoToRacism. We are all equal."
Tottenham duo Nacer Chadli and Moussa Dembele were also pictured eating bananas with a message supporting the fight against racism.
Togo and Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor said on his Twitter account: "Massive respect to danid2ois, there is no place for Racism in Football. #saynotoracism."
Former England captain Gary Lineker, meanwhile, described Alves' reaction as "utterly brilliant" on Twitter while adding "Treat the racist berk with complete disdain!".
The racist incident, which occurred in the 75th minute of the match when Barca were trailing 2-1 and in the middle of a comeback from 2-0 down, was also condemned by Barca in a statement released on Monday which saw the Catalan giants give Alves their full backing.
The club said it accepted the insults were not related to Villareal, and said Villareal's "immediate condemnation of the incidents is a step in the right direction to firstly isolate and then eradicate completely from the sporting arena this kind of behaviour".
Brenan Rodgers insists Liverpool will keep fighting for the Premier League title until the very last minute
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers insists his team can still win the Barclays Premier League but captain Steven Gerrard's costly slip and Chelsea's "two buses" tactics dealt their prospects a major setback.
While Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho claims his own side are still not in the title race after Sunday's 2-0 win at Anfield, Rodgers is determined to drill the winning mentality into his players that until Sunday had spurred them to 11 straight wins.
A mistake by Steven Gerrard let Demba Ba in for the opener in added time at the end of the first half, and with seconds remaining substitute Willian added a second on the breakaway to end the league leaders' stunning streak.
Chelsea moved to within two points of the summit but Manchester City, after their win at Crystal Palace, still with a match in hand and a superior goal difference, are probably the favourites three points behind Liverpool.
Rodgers admitted Chelsea's stifling tactics made it tough for Liverpool, with the visitors employing every trick in the book to slow down play, causing the usually free-scoring Reds to run out of ideas.
"I think there were two buses parked today, never mind one," Rodgers said.
'It was like a back six with three midfield players in front of that. That's 10, with the goalkeeper, for 90 minutes consistently behind the ball.
"Unless you get that early goal, it doesn't entice them to come out. It was clear that they'd come certainly not wanting to win the game, with the time-wasting and whatnot."
"I think there were two buses parked today, never mind one" - Brendan Rodgers
Rodgers later added: "It is totally opposite to how we want to play. It is not difficult to coach, putting 10 players on the edge of the 18-yard box.
"They got booked for time-wasting in the 92nd minute but I think everyone could see from the first whistle that was their plan - to frustrate."
Rodgers knows the title picture has changed, saying: "City will now feel they can go on and win their games.
"We'll focus on the next game (at Crystal Palace) and continue with that positive mentality that we've had throughout the season - because that's the reason why we are where we are."
The Liverpool boss attached no blame to Gerrard for his error which proved so pivotal, saying: "He has picked up this club so many times and it was just really unfortunate because he slipped at a crucial moment and it was right on half-time.
"He was doing everything he possibly could and we hoped there would be one or two who would step up to the plate instead of him, but we couldn't quite do that.
"There's certainly no blame because we are in the position we are in now because of him; he's been instrumental for us this season." Mourinho rejected talk of Chelsea putting themselves back in the title race, as he said: "There is no chance.
"It was three important points and we need one more to finish third and are in the Champions League automatically."
Mourinho added: "The best team won, in my opinion. The team played brilliantly. Every player was magnificent. No mistakes.
"I am not looking for credit. I am very happy with my players, they know how pleased I am with their work and that is what they need from me.
"Time-wasting. What's that? You never spoke about this when we played lot of matches this season."
Mick Cooke said he could not find 'the right button' to get Athlone over the lineMick Cooke said he could not find the right button to get Athlone over the line
Athlone Town have confirmed that Mick Cooke has stepped down from the position of first team manager by mutual consent.
In a statement, the club thanked Cooke for the "hard work, honesty and integrity that he has shown in the job since replacing Roddy Collins at the start of the season".
Cooke said that "despite the team being so close to getting results I just cannot find the right button to get us over the line and gain the all important results we need."
He said that following discussions with club chairman John Hayden, they had decided that "new men at the helm was the best plan of action".
Athlone have endured a torrid start to the season, losing all ten of their SSE Airtricity League Premier Division games so far.
Roy Keane insists he has no plan to leave Martin O'Neill's backroom team in favour of Louis van Gaal's
Roy Keane has ruled himself out of a return to Manchester United as Louis van Gaal's number two.
The 61-year-old Dutchman is the bookmakers' favourite to succeed the departed David Moyes at Old Trafford, and former United skipper Keane has been linked with key role on his staff.
However, the 42-year-old, who is currently working as assistant to Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill, has moved to dampen the rumours.
Speaking to Today FM's Ray D'Arcy show in Cork on Monday morning, Keane said: "People keep asking me, ironically, about other jobs. I have got a job and I am very happy in my job."
Former Sunderland and Ipswich manager Keane was handed a return to coaching when O'Neill replaced Giovanni Trapattoni at the Republic helm in November last year.
His appointment was greeted with almost as much excitement as that of the Ulsterman in a country where he remains a divisive figure.
Within weeks, he found himself thrust into the headlines as former United boss Alex Ferguson's autobiography painted a less than flattering picture of their relationship and prompted a dismissive response from his one-time inspirational captain.
Asked if he could foresee a time when the two might be on speaking times once again, Keane replied: "No, I am not sure.
"Probably not. But look, I have said that about other people.
"Football is a funny old game and you get clashes of personality sometimes, but it's something that's not on my mind at the moment, to be honest with you, whether it be good or bad."
"People keep asking me, ironically, about other jobs. I have got a job and I am very happy in my job" - Roy Keane
Keane admitted he harbours hopes of a return to management one day, although he insisted that is not currently his main focus.
He said: "In my quiet moments, I obviously want to go back into being a manager myself."
Asked if his dream was for that to be at Old Trafford, he said: "No, I don't think that way.
"I was at a match on Friday night, I was at a match on Saturday and I am up in the stand thinking, 'I would love to have a team'.
"And then I'll get back in my car and I spoke to Martin, I think it was on Saturday night, and then I am thinking obviously I am delighted to be working with Martin and [goalkeeping coach] Seamus [McDonagh] and the other staff, so you have to be careful what you wish for.
"I am just really appreciating the opportunity I have at the moment. What happens further down the road..."
Keane was critical of United's decision to dispense with Moyes' services after just ten months, but steadfastly refused to be drawn into the debate over who should replace him, or what Ferguson's role at the club should be.
He said: "Part of me has to step back as well. I know there are certain times when the media are going to ask me these questions, but there's also a part of me thinking whatever has gone on at certain clubs, it really is none of my business.
"There are certain things that will hurt me, particularly as I have been a manager before, so I will look at David Moyes and say I don't like what happened to him.
"But regarding other issues at whether it be Man United or Arsenal or other football clubs, it's none of my business and it doesn't keep me awake at night."
Neil Robertson reacts after missing the black for a century break against Mark Allen
Neil Robertson twice narrowly missed out on claiming his 100th century break of the season on his way to booking his place in the quarter-finals of the World Snooker Championships with a 13-7 win over Northern Ireland's Mark Allen.
The world number one's landmark 100th century will have to wait for another day after the Australian fell agonisingly short in the final two frames of the victory - missing pots when on 94 and 92.
The match resumed with Robertson leading Northern Ireland's Allen 9-7, but the Melbourne-born cueman wasted no time in racing to victory, with breaks of 59, 69, 94 and 92 wrapping up the win.
"The snooker gods are going to keep you guys waiting a little bit longer" - Neil Robertson
"Throughout the whole match Mark kept sticking with me and I thought he played really well," Robertson told BBC2 following his win.
"He's always going to score really heavily but his safety was really good and I didn't have many opportunities at long balls.
"I was really happy to be 4-4 and at 9-7 I was delighted because I won quite a lucky frame. I had quite an unbelievable fluke on the green, so to come out today, I knew I had to come out and play really well.
"Those last two frames I was like a cricketer on 190 or something like that. It was unfortunate. I missed the black with one red left and I thought I hit the black perfectly and I was about to celebrate but it rattled in the jaws.
"That frame there, I missed a really tough red down the cushion and I thought I hit it pretty good again but it wasn't to be. The snooker gods are going to keep you guys waiting a little bit longer."
Robertson admitted he would have loved to have struck his 100th century in the session in front of seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry.
"I was gutted because Hendry was in the commentary box as well and I would have loved to do it with him in there," the Australian said.
"Hopefully for the next couple of sessions he can be in the box as it would be good to do it in front of him."
Next up for the 32-year-old is the winner of the match between England's Judd Trump and Welshman Ryan Day.
Trump leads their match ahead of the resumption in Monday night's session, but Robertson knows to expect a tough test no matter who he faces in the last eight.
He added: "It probably looks like Judd Trump. He's got a good lead, 10-6, so another player who will probably one day win the World Championships as well. I will just go out and play my game."
Robertson proved his credentials as one of the world's best matchplayers with his victory over Allen.
He claimed the 17th and 18th frames to leave his opponent with a mountain to climb before he missed an easy black into the bottom right pocket when on 94 in the next.
It did, however, mean the Australian only needed one more frame to book his place in the next round and he started off with intent, moving on to 33 before splitting the pack and potting a red for good measure.
He was left with a difficult blue but Robertson showed his skills to work his way through the scattered reds and looked on course again to reach the century of centuries landmark.
However, the curse of the nervous 90s struck again, with Robertson missing out when on 92, but despite that he booked his place in the quarter-finals.
In Monday's other afternoon game, Dominic Dale claimed a 13-4 win over Michael Wasley after he won the one frame he needed to progress to the next round.
Leinster are being cautious about Sean O'Brien's return from injury
By Padraic Ryan
Leinster's Sean O'Brien is "training very well" and has a "remote chance" of playing this season in the Rabo Direct Pro12 play-offs, but the club are at pains to play down expectations.
A Leinster spokesman said that there had not been any setbacks in O'Brien's recuperation from shoulder surgery. O'Brien needed the surgery after he dislocated his should against Ulster in December.
"He is progressing well as part of a modified training programme and he isn't too far from taking part in team training," the spokesman said.
However, the spokesman stressed that Leinster were not putting any pressure on O'Brien to meet a particular return date, and that there was no chance he would return in the regular season.
There was a "remote chance" O'Brien might play a part should Leinster reach the play-off stages of the Pro12, but his recovery is being taken "session by session".
O'Brien's return would be a huge boost for Leinster and Ireland, the Tullow man having missed the entire RBS 6 Nations and most of the season. However, given the nature of the injury, and O'Brien's rampaging style of play, Leinster are being very cautious.
Asked whether O'Brien would be eligible for Ireland's two-Test tour of Argentina in the summer, Leinster's spokesman said: "We're not even thinking that far ahead".
There was better news for Luke Fitzgerald, who trained on Monday, and who Leinster are hopeful will "be in the mix" for their game against Ulster on Friday.
Eoin Reddan and Fergus McFadden will not be available for the Pro12 inter-provincial derby.
Written By Unknown on Minggu, 27 April 2014 | 23.06
Updated: Sunday, 27 Apr 2014 14:31 | Comments
Connor Wickham celebrates scoring the opening goal for Sunderland
Two-goals from Conor Wickham helped Sunderland climb out of the relegation zone with an impressive 4-0 victory over 10-men Cardiff, with the Welsh outfit now slipping to the bottom of the Premier League table.
The 21-year-old, who has spent much of the season on loan in the Sky Bet Championship, headed the Black Cats into a 26th-minute lead to add to the double he scored at Manchester City and his strike in last weekend's 2-1 win at Chelsea, and then sealed the win with a late header.
He played a key role in the second goal, too, as he forced defender Juan Cala into the ill-judged challenge which cost him a red card and his side a penalty.
Fabio Borini made no mistake from the spot and, when substitute Emanuele Giaccherini added a third 14 minutes from time, the game was won, to the delight of the bulk of a crowd of 45,859.
It was just Sunderland's second league victory at the Stadium of Light in 11 attempts and the first time they had put together back-to-back wins in almost three months.
But more importantly, it lifted them from the foot of the table and out of the bottom three, albeit only on goal difference, as they leapfrogged Cardiff, Fulham and Norwich.
Their ability to stay there will be severely tested at Manchester United next weekend, but with West Brom and Swansea to come on Wearside in the final two fixtures of an eventful campaign, their fate is at least in their own hands.
Cardiff will return to the English north-east on Saturday to face Newcastle before a final-day clash with Chelsea in South Wales knowing they will almost certainly need to win at least one of those games to survive.
Both sides ran out knowing victory would take the winners out of the drop zone, but it was Sunderland who took the game by the scruff of the neck as they refused to let the momentum gained from last weekend's heroics at Stamford Bridge slip away.
Typified by pugnacious midfielder Lee Cattermole, they met the Bluebirds head-on from the first whistle in front of a bumper crowd which turned up knowing exactly what was at stake and determined to play its part.
Full-back Marcos Alonso saw a third-minute snapshot blocked at source and Wickham tested keeper David Marshall at his near-post seconds later with a drive from an unlikely angle.
But Cardiff managed to weather the early storm and responded by winning a series of corners of their own and from one of them, midfielder Mats Daehli screwed a shot high and wide to remind the Black Cats that they would not have things all their own way.
However, the tide changed once again after 26 minutes when Wickham was left unaccompanied beyond the far post to meet Sebastian Larsson's corner and head it back cross goal and inside the upright to open the scoring.
There was a tangible sense of relief on Wearside, albeit one tinged with the knowledge that there was a long way to go both on the afternoon and in the race for survival.
Jordon Mutch, Santiago Vergini and Gary Medel all went into referee Phil Dowd's notebook as tempers frayed, but it was Cala who was to incur the official's wrath as the half drew to a close.
The defender's poor touch allowed Wickham to steal in and he instinctively dragged the striker back, initially outside the box.
Wickham stayed on his feet and Dowd played an advantage, but when the attack came to nothing, he pointed to the spot and produced a red card, much to Cala's horror.
Borini nervelessly converted from 12 yards to double Sunderland's lead and give them real hope of escaping the drop.
Bluebirds boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer replaced Don Cowie with Wilfried Zaha at the break and asked midfielder Medel to slot in alongside skipper Steven Caulker at the heart of his back four, and they found themselves under concerted pressure once again as the home side went for the kill.
Borini curled a 50th-minute effort wide of the far post and full-back Kevin Theophile-Catherine survived penalty appeals for a challenge on Adam Johnson seconds later.
But Cardiff refused to lie down and die and, despite their numerical disadvantage, launched a fightback which saw Mutch head across the face of goal from a 57th-minute corner.
Goalkeeper Vito Mannone was called upon for the first time to keep out Peter Whittingham's deflected free-kick seven minutes later, but Borini might have wrapped up the win 18 minutes from time had Marshall not pulled off a fine instinctive save to keep out his shot from Jack Colback's cross.
Giaccherini's smart 76th-minute finish put the result beyond doubt and Wickham applied the icing to the cake with four minutes remaining when he headed home the Italy international's corner.
Chelsea's Fernando Torres (R) passes to Willian to score the Blues' second goalChelsea's Demba Ba bears down on Simon Mignolet before scoring past the Liverpool 'keeperSteven Gerrard holds his head in hands after slipping up for Chelsea's openerJose Mourinho keeps the ball back from Steven Gerrard and Jon Flanagan
Goals from Demba Ba and Willian dented Liverpool's title hopes and revived Chelsea's as the Blues ran out 2-0 victors in their Premier League showdown at Anfield.
In a battle between a home side committed to attack and visitors intent only on defending, the latter triumphed, which may not have made for a good spectacle, but Chelsea – and Manchester City – were not complaining.
Much has been made of this being the season when Reds captain Steven Gerrard ends his long wait for a championship medal, so it was cruel that his mistake led to Ba's crucial opening goal in first-half injury time – only added on because of the visitors' persistent time-wasting.
Substitute Willian scored a breakaway second in the final seconds.
While victory took Chelsea within two points of their rivals at the top of the table, the ones to really benefit were third-placed City, still with a match in hand on both the teams above them.
The Champions League is still the primary objective for the Londoners and to that end they fielded a slightly weaker side. It showed seven changes from the midweek goalless semi-final first-leg draw at Atletico Madrid, but it still boasted more than 500 international caps with an entire squad value of about £200million.
Tomas Kalas, with just two minutes' action in two different competitions this season, made his Premier League debut at centre-back and surrounded as he was by massed ranks of blue shirts he coped well.
In January Jose Mourinho criticised West Ham for playing a game from the "19th century", but the Portuguese brought to Merseyside his own unique brand of defensive football – and then some – as they slowed the game at every opportunity.
Not only were the visitors happy to defend throughout, they almost actively engaged in not wanting to play the ball anywhere on the pitch, with players frequently looking to run into the corners.
In time-wasting and breaking up play Chelsea denied their opponents any opportunity to establish the sort of rhythm which has regularly blown away teams in the first half.
They even went as far as going to take throw-ins and free-kicks before suddenly changing their minds and getting another team-mate to leisurely wander over to have a go instead.
It was a classic Mourinho destruction and frustration ploy and infuriated Liverpool so much Gerrard engaged in a bit of push and shove with the Chelsea boss in trying to get the ball back into play and Suarez stood to applaud goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer's time-wasting.
Referee Martin Atkinson made a big show of pointing to his watch, intimating he was adding on time, but he did not take decisive action in actually booking anyone until stoppage time.
But Mourinho will argue the ends more than justified the means against a side which had won their last 11 league matches and dropped just five points at Anfield all season.
That Ashley Cole had an early shot parried away by goalkeeper Simon Mignolet was almost surprising considering how much possession and territory Chelsea were happy to concede.
A rehearsed corner saw Glen Johnson's shot deflected behind and Philippe Coutinho volleyed Suarez's cross into the side-netting before Cole cleared off the line from team-mate John Obi Mikel's deflection and Mamadou Sakho blazed over from the breakdown.
Chelsea's mindset was exemplified when Andre Schurrle found himself one-on-one with Martin Skrtel on the halfway line, but five seconds later the ball had been passed back to Schwarzer.
Optimistic shouts for handball against Jon Flanagan were waved away, while, at the other end, Suarez failed to capitalise on Cole's mistake in giving away possession by curling a shot over.
Ba was not as wasteful when Gerrard slipped in possession 10 yards inside his half to present the Senegal international with a free run on goal and he did well, considering how little of the ball he had seen, to finish expertly.
If Liverpool were frustrated in the first half they knew they would face much more of the same after the break, but in addition they found Schwarzer in fine form as he produced a great save to keep out Joe Allen's first-time effort, although Mignolet's denial of Schurrle was equally as good.
Gerrard tried his best to redress the balance, but twice found Schwarzer with shots from outside the area and once from a header inside it.
For once, though, even the Reds' often inspirational captain could not get his side back into the game and even the return of striker Daniel Sturridge from a hamstring injury as a second-half substitute did not puncture a hole in Chelsea's thick blue line.
Suarez had one last chance in added time, but Schwarzer punched over his volley.
Instead the match ended with the familiar sight of a jubilant Mourinho running down the touchline to celebrate substitute Willian's breakaway goal.
Alexander Levy's previous best performance on the European Tour came when he finished third at last season's BMW International Open
Frenchman Alexander Levy claimed his first European Tour title on Sunday despite seeing his five-shot cushion cut to just one on the back nine of his final round at the Volvo China Open in Shenzhen.
The 23-year-old was three strokes clear heading into Sunday and looked to be on course for a comfortable victory as he calmly progressed through a flawless first 14 holes with 11 pars and three birdies.
A double-bogey six at the 15th gave the chasing pack a glimmer of hope, but he swiftly recovered with birdies on 17 and 18 for a final-round 69 which saw him finish on 19 under par.
England's Tommy Fleetwood finished four shots in arrears after concluding his tournament with a round of 68.
Northern Ireland's Michael Hoey carded a final-round 68 to finish on 10 under in a share of eighth place. The Ballymoney native racked up seven birdies in his first 14 holes, but his effort ebbed away as he registered a bogey and a double bogey in two of his last three holes.
Fleetwood made a flying start to his final round at Genzon Golf Club with three straight birdies - sinking 25-foot putts at the second and third - to get himself firmly in the hunt.
His cause was not helped by a bogey on 13, having hit a wayward drive into the hazard and been forced to take a penalty drop, but another superb long putt ensured a birdie at the 14th - shortly before Levy's nightmare on 15. The Frenchman putted through the green into thick rough and required three shots from there.
That saw Levy's lead reduced to just one shot, but he denied that his blip on 15 had been down to nerves - insisting he relished the pressure of being out in front.
He told www.europeantour.com: "I didn't feel pressure - it was a difficult putt, difficult pin position, my ball was in the divot. It was a difficult shot, I made double bogey but I knew I was playing well and I was only thinking about my game.
"I hit one of my best shots on 17. I didn't feel pressure on the golf course because I'm confident.
"I just played my golf and focused on the target. I saw Tommy made a birdie on the 17th, but I like the pressure."
Levy's triumph - for which he set the tone with a course-record 62 on Friday - meant he became the 20th different winner of the event, in its 20th staging.
Spain's Alvaro Quiros (72) finished third, six strokes behind Levy, with Italy's Francesco Molinari (67) a further shot back and Denmark's Anders Hansen (63), Swede Henrik Stenson (65) and England's Ian Poulter (67) joint fifth on 11 under.
England's Danny Willett and Germany's Marcel Siem recorded hole-in-one each in their final rounds.
Willet's ace came at the 187-metre 12th hole with a five iron, a shot which netted him a Volvo V40.
Earlier, Siem did it on the 200-metre par-three eighth with a three iron but there were no prizes on that hole.
Santiago Giraldo will bid for a maiden ATP Tour title on Sunday
Santiago Giraldo ended hopes of Nicolas Almagro building on his triumph over world number one Rafael Nadal with a 7-5 6-3 victory to book a place in the final of the Barcelona Open.
The Colombian - who knocked out number three seed Fabio Fognini in round two - continued his fine recent form with a comfortable win, which included six aces and losing just one service game, to wrap up victory in one hour and 25 minutes as he moved into a second ATP Tour final.
On Sunday, the 26-year-old will meet Kei Nishikori, the first Japanese player to reach the final of the Barcelona Open.
Nishikori took 86 minutes to dispatch ninth seed Ernests Gulbis 6-2, 6-4.
"I was very happy to see lots of Japanese people congratulating me after the match," said Nishikori, who in February claimed a fourth ATP title at the US National Indoor Tennis Championships at Memphis.
"I love coming to Spain to play, I am playing great, and there have not been any easy matches."
The remarkable Cirrus Des Aigles (far side) is still operating at the peak of his powers after 56 lifetime starts at the age of eight
Cirrus Des Aigles inflicted a first ever defeat on Treve in a thrilling renewal of the Prix Ganay at Longchamp this afternoon.
The two market principals fought out a tremendous finish in the final furlong and though Treve got her head in front, Cirrus Des Aigles rallied in the final strides to reel in the highest-rated horse in training for trainer Corine Barande-Barbe and jockey Christophe Soumillon.
The first two drew clear of Norse King in third.
Frankie Dettori tried to hold Treve up at the rear of the field, but the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe heroine got no cover on the outside.
After Belle De Crecy weakened early in the straight, Ed Dunlop's Joshua Tree made a brief bid for glory but he soon faded as Cirrus Des Aigles and the Criquette Head-trained Treve took over.
It looked as though Treve's was getting the better of the sustained duel, but the indomitable Cirrus Des Aigles, with the benefit of two runs already this year, prevailed by a short neck.
Criquette Head-Maarek felt the ground might have gone against her charge and she remains confident of avenging the defeat should the pair clash again this term.
She said: "Maybe there was too much rain, it was sticky out there and we had too much ground to make up. It was a very good run but the only thing I will say is that my pacemaker (Belle De Crecy) went too fast.
"The winner had had two races already and the fitness was there.
"If she comes out of it well, in principal we will be going to Royal Ascot. We might have lost a battle, but we haven't lost a war.
"She is brave but the other horse is stronger with those two runs this year and he loves that ground. She ran a great race but he was fitter than we were.
"In the rematch, I'm sure we can get it back. She took the lead but in the end he's come back at us - that's racing. Horses are not unbeatable, that is for certain."
Harry Herbert, racing manager for owner Sheikh Joaan al Thani's Al Shaqab Racing, insists the Prince Of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot in June remains very much on the agenda.
He said: "It's frustrating in that she went to the front and you could see it was going to be a battle. The winner's form was very strong and he was always going to be a big danger.
"The fitness deal with your first run on this ground means so much and on this going she doesn't have that zippity-zip.
"It's all very much to play for in the bigger picture and we will be heading to Royal Ascot as planned."
Barande-Barbe felt the early pace had suited Cirrus Des Aigles and is now eyeing a trip to Epsom for the Investec Coronation Cup on 7 June.
She said: "I'm very proud of what he did today - he never was better. I thought the strong pace helped us and it was obviously one of his finest moments.
"On reflection, if the there had been a stronger pace in the race against Frankel (2012 Champion Stakes at Ascot), we might have made that a bit more interesting but now all roads will lead to the Coronation Cup."
Soumillon hailed Cirrus Des Aigles as "perfect" and believes the gelding had shown his best form.
He said: "I'm very, very happy. Although it's the first Group One of the season, it's not the biggest race but then again, the match was built up like a big game and my horse was perfect.
"He had his track, his ground and two races under his belt - it made sure he would operate to the maximum - but this is really something extraordinary for racing.
"It's what we love in European sport - horses so closely matched and fighting it out together. He is probably on his top level of form and to beat Treve, he had to be there."
Soumillon had earlier earned another hard-fought victory as Vazira kept her unbeaten record intact in the Prix Vanteaux.
Alain de Royer-Dupre's Aga Khan-owned filly was an 8-11 favourite for the Group Three prize having made a winning debut at Chantilly at the end of March.
Odds-on backers were made to sweat as Soumillon was riding along vigorously over a furlong down, but his mount responded well to fend off the challenge of Kenzadargent.
Vazira, a daughter of Sea The Stars, holds entries in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Darley Irish Oaks at the Curragh.
The Andre Fabre-trained Montclair claimed the glory in the other Group Three prize of the afternoon, landing the Prix de Barbeville from Terrubi.
Monaghan's Kieran Hughes has a shot blocked at Croke Park
By Eoin Ryan
Donegal finished with 14 men as Monaghan swept their Ulster rivals aside by 1-16 to 1-10 to claim the Allianz Football League Division 2 title at Croke Park.
Rory Kavanagh saw red for a needless altercation with Darren Hughes shortly after half-time and though Michael Murphy scored a goal from a penalty, Monaghan hit back with a green flag of their own from Kieran Hughes and eased home.
The much-anticipated rematch of last year's Ulster final failed to catch fire, as Monaghan dominated throughout, kicking some wonderful points and looking far sharper than their opponents.
The much-anticipated rematch of last year's Ulster final failed to catch fire, as Monaghan dominated throughout, kicking some wonderful points and looking far sharper than their opponents.
Donegal had started well, taking an early lead through Paddy McBrearty before Colm McFadden added a close-range free.
Monaghan settled quickly, however, and could have had a goal when Darren Hughes played in Kieran Hughes.
Luke Keaney blocked well but Farney goalkeeper Rory Beggan came up the field to point the '45'.
Referee David Gough had to turn to Hawk-Eye after a Darren Hughes point was inexplicably given wide by the umpires, the score detection system showing the kick had gone comfortably inside of the posts.
McFadden gave Donegal the lead once more but then Monaghan took control, kicking five unanswered points, including a long-range beauty from Paul Finlay and efforts from Darren Hughes, Dessie Mone, Conor McManus and Paudie McKenna.
Michael Murphy gave a reminder of his quality on 20 minutes as he claimed a long delivery, turned Drew Wylie and fired inches over the bar, but Monaghan were well on top and Kieran Hughes could have had a goal rather than a point when his shot clipped the bar and went over.
After Darren Hughes had lost his boot, the Donegal midfielder petulantly jabbed the Monaghan man in the groin with the shoe.
Donegal appeared listless and Jim McGuinness was concerned enough to make a double substitution in the 28th minute, Neil Gallagher and Mark McHugh coming in for Christy Toye and Martin McElhinney.
Frees from Murphy and McFadden gave the half-time scoreboard a flattering look for Donegal, as they only trailed 0-07 to 0-10 despite being totally outplayed.
Odhrán MacNiallais narrowed the gap after the restart but then the red mist descended on Rory Kavanagh, who had been booked minutes earlier.
After Darren Hughes had lost his boot, the Donegal midfielder petulantly jabbed the Monaghan man in the groin with the shoe.
Gough showed Kavanagh a straight red card after consultation with his linesmen.
It looked like a hammer blow for Donegal but, against the run of play, they got a lifeline after Colin Walshe's foul on Ryan McHugh was deemed a penalty, despite the foul occurring outside the square.
All Star Walshe, who had been a surprise starter after recent injury troubles was shown a black card as Murphy buried the kick into the top-right corner of the net. Donegal were level, 1-08 to 0-11.
Once again, however, Monaghan responded impressively.
Conor McManus kicked an excellent point from an impossible angle before a flowing counter-attack saw the ball hand-passed in for Kieran Hughes to palm into the net.
Colm McFadden responded on the hour mark but that was to be Donegal's last score until a Murphy free in injury-time.
Dessie Mone was orchestrating everything from the back and subs Dick Clerkin and Chris McGuinness landed fine scores as Monaghan cantered home.
The game degenerated in the final minutes, with McFadden and Darren Hughes picking up black cards but Monaghan finished in style, with further points from Fintan Kelly and McManus giving them a comfortable win.
Donegal: P Durcan; E McGee, N McGee, K Lacey; F McGlynn, L Keaney, AThompson; R Kavanagh, M McElhinney; C Toye, R McHugh, O MacNiallais (0-01); C McFadden (0-04, 2f), M Murphy (1-4, 1-00 pen 0-3f), P McBrearty (0-01).
Subs: M McHugh for McElhinney (28), N Gallagher for Toye (28), C Classon for MacNiallais (46), D O'Connor for R MHugh (58), D Walsh for L Keaney (64), D Malone for McFadden (Black card 67), J McCarron for Finlay (72).
Monaghan: R Beggan (0-01 '45'); K Duffy, D Wylie, F Kelly (0-01); D Mone (0-01), V Corey, C Walshe; O Lennon, P Finlay (0-03, 1f); Kieran Hughes (1-01), S Gollogly, D Hughes (0-02); D Malone, P McKenna (0-02), C McManus (0-03).
Subs: R Wylie for Walshe (Black card 53), C McGuinness (0-1) for McKenna, S Carey for D Malone (67), C O'Connell for D Hughes (Black card 73)
Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 26 April 2014 | 23.06
Updated: Saturday, 26 Apr 2014 12:51 | Comments
Germany beat the Czech Republic in the final of Euro 96 at Wembley
The semi-finals and final of Euro 2020 will be staged in London or in Munich.
They are the only two cities who have submitted bids to UEFA for the semi-finals/final package at the tournament, which will be held across Europe for the first time.
Dublin, London, Glasgow and Cardiff are among 19 cities who have bid to host matches earlier in the tournament.
Euro 2020 will be staged in 13 cities around the continent.
Twelve will host three group games and one knock-out match - either a last-16 or quarter-final clash - and one will stage the semis and final.
Bilbao, Rome, Munich, Stockholm, St Petersburg, Amsterdam, Brussels, Copenhagen, Jerusalem, Sofia, Bucharest, Budapest, Baku, Minsk and Skopje have also bid to host early matches.
"We are extremely happy to have received so many bids to host UEFA Euro 2020," UEFA President Michel Platini said in a statement.
"The 60th year anniversary edition of the tournament will be a historic one, with matches played in many European countries.
"By spreading the Euro across our continent, we will allow more fans from more nations to share in the excitement of hosting such a magical event.
"Member associations will also benefit greatly from this format, since more of them will be exposed to an elite tournament and have the opportunity to increase the development of football in their respective countries. I wish all the candidates the best of luck in this bidding process."
UEFA will now examine the bids and prepare written evaluation reports to submit to the UEFA executive committee.
The final decision on the 13 host cities will be taken by the executive committee on 19 September in Geneva.
An elated Ronnie O'Sullivan punches the air as he leaves the auditorium following his victory over Joe Perry
Ronnie O'Sullivan came from behind to defeat Joe Perry 13-11 in the second round of the World Championship in Sheffield.
The defending world champion trailed Perry 9-7 heading into the final session. The opening four frames were shared, but O'Sullivan reeled off three frames in a row to lead for the very first time in the match at 12-11.
A sublime break of 113 booked a quarter-final berth for 38-year-old against Marco Fu or Shaun Murphy.
Seamus Coleman (R) holds his head in his hands as puts through his own goal
Everton's hopes of securing Champions League football were dealt a huge blow as two first-half own goals gifted Southampton a 2-0 victory at St Mary's.
Already a point behind fourth-placed Arsenal, the Toffees knew a fourth successive away win was required in order to keep their charge for Champions League qualification alive.
However, first-half own goals from Antolin Alcaraz and Seamus Coleman cost Everton dear as Southampton secured a deserved 2-0 win that saw the club equal their best ever Premier League tally of 52 points.
The visitors were fighting an uphill battle after just 53 seconds at St Mary's as a rusty-looking Alcaraz directed past goalkeeper Tim Howard, with Ireland international defender Coleman following suit after 31 minutes to double Saints' advantage.
Everton attempted to claw their way back but few of their fans could argue with the result, which would have been worse was it not for wayward finishing and referee Michael Oliver waving away several penalty appeals.
Rickie Lambert – one of several English players impressing in front of England manager Roy Hodgson – also clipped the post with a 25-yard free-kick as Southampton ended a three-match winless streak and handed Arsenal the opportunity to move four points clear of Everton with victory over Newcastle.
The defeat brought Martinez's men crashing down after last weekend's 2-0 victory against Manchester United.
That result saw their former manager David Moyes lose his job at the Old Trafford helm but also came at a cost for the Toffees, who lost key men Kevin Mirallas and Sylvain Distin to injury.
Their replacements Gerard Deulofeu and Alcaraz are by no means slouches, but the latter's rustiness cost his side with less than a minute on the clock.
In just his fourth league start of the season, the Paraguay defender appeared flustered by the attention of Sam Gallagher and rather comically turned a Lambert cross past Howard.
Alcaraz's moment of madness was the worst possible start for Everton, yet they did not collapse and Coleman soon darted down the flank and crossed for Romelu Lukaku.
The shot that followed, though, was poor and it took until the 15th minute for Martinez's side to muster a first shot on target, and even then Artur Boruc easily dealt with Deulofeu's tame strike.
Gallagher's ignored appeal for handball against John Stones was all Saints had to show during the spell that followed their goal, although they were by now in control.
Jack Cork got away a shot as an injury to Steven Naismith temporarily reduced Everton to ten men, with the Scotland international returning just in time to see former Rangers team-mate Steven Davis miss a glorious chance after a fine Lambert cut back.
The Toffees were getting little joy in attack, with Nathaniel Clyne particularly impressive in keeping Deulofeu quiet.
Leighton Baines whipped in a threatening free-kick on the one occasion the Saints right-back lost the duel with the Barcelona loanee, although the cross evaded his team-mates and Saints capitalised.
Not only adept at the back, Clyne is a fine attacking option and bombed forward before fizzing over a wonderful cross that was just too high for Stones to head clear, leaving the unsighted Coleman to helplessly direct into his own goal.
Lovren powered a header at Howard soon after as Saints looked for a third, and after Lukaku directed over Boruc's goal, referee Oliver rejected vocal handball appeals against Stones after the Everton defender handled an Adam Lallana cross.
Naismith had handball appeals of his own waved away in first-half stoppage time and continued to prove a nuisance when played resumed, with Cork doing well to block wide his effort on goal.
The Saints midfielder had an attempt of his own at the other end and Lallana struck at Howard, who was relieved to see a 25-yard Lambert free-kick clip the post and go wide.
Substitute Leon Osman joined team-mate Gareth Barry in the book after being adjudged to have taken a tumble in the box under a challenge from Lovren, before fellow replacement Aiden McGeady's cross was headed straight at Boruc by Lukaku.
Referee Oliver was again the focus as Shaw and Lallana saw penalty appeals waved away after apparent handballs by Coleman and Stones, before a rather relieved Boruc saw a Baines cross dip just wide.
Everton were attacking in numbers in an attempt to reduce the deficit and had a spot-kick appeal of their own rejected after James McCarthy claimed he was impeded by Lovren, although their attacking mind-set was leaving gaps at the back.
Lallana showed wonderful skill to burst to the byline but Lambert was unable to convert late on, while Howard did well to deny substitute James Ward-Prowse.
Ryan Seaton and Matt McGovern have won the silver medal. Picture: Franck Socha
Irish Olympians Ryan Seaton and Matt McGovern from Providence Team IRL have won the silver medal in the 49er class at the ISAF World Cup in France.
The Belfast pair finished second, third, and seventh in today's final three medal races, putting them eight points clear of Australia's Nathan Outteridge and Iain Jensen who finished third overall.
Peter Burling and Blair Tuke from New Zealand took the gold.
"We knew we could do it, we just had to get good starts and sail well," said Seaton. "We have been consistent all week and that gave us confidence going in to today."
"It feels absolutely amazing," enthused McGovern. "I'm probably still waiting for it to sink in a little. It's been a great day with three really tight races and all to play for."
A total of 80 of the world's top 49er class sailors were competing at the event in Hyeres, which was a good indicator of Seaton and McGovern's ranking as they prepare for the 49er European Championships in July before the focal event of the season - the Olympic qualifier in Spain in September.
European champion Annalise Murphy was also competing in a medal race today.
The Laser Radial class had one double-points race in which Murphy finished sixth, moving her up one place to finish seventh overall in the 79-boat fleet.
Commenting on her performance this week, Murphy remarked: "The Worlds and Olympic qualification in Santander this autumn is the main event of the year.
"All the other regattas are great race practice and good for figuring out what I need to work on in training in between events.
"This week has given me an insight on what I need to work on so when Santander comes around hopefully I'll be ready to have a good regatta."
Three other Irish teams also sailing at the World Cup.
In the Paralympic Sonar class John Twomey, Ian Costelloe and Austin O'Carroll finished in seventh place overall.
Development sailors Andrea Brewster and Saskia Tidey finished a respectable 16th out of 42 boats.
James Espey was sailing in the men's Laser Standard fleet of 123 and finished 71st.
Loris Baz claimed his first ever pole position for Sunday's two races in the third round of the World Superbikes season after topping the timesheet at Assen.
The Frenchman - second in the overall standings, four points behind Kawasaki Racing team-mate and reigning world champion Tom Sykes after the first two rounds - recorded a best time of one minute 34.357 seconds.
That was 0.488secs clear of compatriot Sylvain Guintoli of Aprilia Racing, while Sykes will join the French duo on the front row on Sunday.
Guintoli's team-mate Marco Melandri, Jonathan Rea (Pata Honda World Superbike Team) and Davide Giugliano (Ducati Racing Team) will form the second row.
Louis van Gaal is 1-4 shot on Betfair to land the Manchester United job
Manchester United are yet to decide who should replace David Moyes despite reports Louis van Gaal has agreed a deal to take charge of the club.
A report in Dutch paper De Telegraaf on Saturday claimed Holland coach Van Gaal had agreed to sign a three-year deal at Old Trafford following a meeting with United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward in Portugal.
It added that the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach, who will leave his post as Holland coach after this summer's World Cup, would be free to choose his own backroom staff, claiming he would likely take Patrick Kluivert as his number two.
But United, who have put Ryan Giggs in charge until the end of the season, denied the reports, with a spokesman saying: "There is nothing to report. We have not signed a new manager. When we have something to report, we will announce it."
Club sources said there were still "a number of names in the hat" - suggesting the hunt for Moyes' successor could take some time yet.
Carlo Ancelotti, Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola have ruled themselves out of the running publicly. Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp has done so too, but he was never thought to be under consideration. Other potential contenders include Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone and Juventus' Antonio Conte.
It is easy to see why Van Gaal would be an attractive option. The 62-year-old has won titles in Holland, Germany and Spain. He has also made it clear that wants to move to England after the World Cup.
"There is nothing to report. We have not signed a new manager. When we have something to report, we will announce it." - Manchester United spokesman
He was rumoured to be linked with the Tottenham job, but United would prove to be a far more attractive option for the Dutchman.
The fact that Van Gaal would not be able to take over at United until after the World Cup is not considered a deal-breaker by the club's board.
Woodward, meanwhile, is expected to be at Old Trafford on Saturday evening to watch Giggs take charge of his first United game versus Norwich.
Woodward does not view the 40-year-old Welshman as a potential successor to Moyes, but the United hierarchy do see the midfielder as their potential manager a few years down the line.
The way Giggs conducted himself during the first press conference of his temporary reign is understood to have gone down well with senior figures as the club.
The interim manager spoke of his desire to restore some pride to the club following a disastrous season under Moyes, who left the team in seventh place, some 23 points behind Barclays Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Giggs has received the backing of Alex Ferguson. The Scot, whose retirement teed up the appointment of Moyes - a decision he was a driving force behind - on Friday appeared to put his weight behind Giggs getting the job on a full-time basis.
"I think that he [Giggs] is the one man they should go to really,"
Ferguson said at a charity dinner, according to the Daily Telegraph. "He's got 20-odd years of experience at Manchester United.
"I signed him as a kid at 13 years of age. He's gone through the gamut of emotions at the club - he's experienced all the highs and lows."
Giggs has immediately tried to evoke memories of former eras at Old Trafford, by installing fellow members of the 'Class of 92' - Nicky Butt, Phil Neville and Paul Scholes - on his staff.
"He knows exactly what's needed to be a Manchester United player and I was so pleased he brought Paul Scholes back in, and Nicky Butt of course - two great professionals," Ferguson added.
"They understand the club, they are hard workers, they are straight as a die. So you have got the right combinations there, there's no doubt about that."
Giggs, who has been taking his UEFA Pro Licence exams, wants to prove he has a future in management during his four-match spell as interim coach.
"I've got a chance to show what I can do and what I am capable of as a manager in a short space of time" - Ryan Giggs
"I've got a chance to show what I can do and what I am capable of as a manager in a short space of time," he said.
Giggs appears open to the idea of talking with the board about taking charge, or at least having some sort of role within the new coach's set-up, in the summer.
"It can happen [young managers getting the job]. That's not something I'm thinking about at the moment," Giggs said.
"That's another conversation to be had in three weeks, six weeks or whenever in the future."
Giggs, who signed for the club as a 13-year-old, underlined what being manager meant to him in his programme notes.
He wrote: "I've supported United all my life and I've been connected with the club since I was at school.
"It's the rock which my life has been built upon and I can promise you that I will give this job the best I can in the last four games of the season."
Giggs, who turned up at Old Trafford wearing a suit, admitted he never thought he would be in the home dugout as manager.
He added: "This column is not something that I was expecting to have to write but I am extremely proud of being asked to step in as manager of Manchester United."
Everton defender Sylvain Distin misses out with a hamstring injury.
With fellow centre-back Phil Jagielka still a week away from returning from a similar problem it means John Stones and Antolin Alcaraz will be central defensive partners.
Forward Kevin Mirallas (groin) has been ruled out for the remainder of the season and with Darron Gibson, Arouna Kone, Bryan Oviedo, Steven Pienaar and Lacina Traore all still sidelined manager Roberto Martinez will look to his under-21s to bolster his squad.
FULHAM v HULL 3pm Hull expect to have strikers Shane Long and Sone Aluko fit for their trip to relegation-threatened Fulham.
Aluko missed last week's defeat to Arsenal with a hamstring injury and Long was replaced at half-time with a calf complaint, but both are due to travel to Craven Cottage, where Matty Fryatt, Yannick Sagbo and Nikica Jelavic are also hoping to get the nod up front.
Goalkeeper Allan McGregor is running again after breaking three ribs and damaging his kidney against West Ham last month, but is not yet in full training.
Tottenham will be able to call upon captain Michael Dawson.
The defender has not featured since March 30 due to a hamstring complaint but is back in the squad, although Jan Vertonghen (ankle) and Etienne Capoue (foot) remain absent.
The pair are not ready despite returning to training this week, while Kyle Walker (pelvis) and Erik Lamela (back) are again absent.
Oussama Assaidi will hope to push for a first Stoke start in two and a half months.
The on-loan Liverpool winger, who has scored four goals this season, returned last week from knee ligament damage as a substitute in the 1-1 draw against Cardiff.
Defender Robert Huth (knee) and winger Matthew Etherington (back) are the Potters' only absentees.
SWANSEA v ASTON VILLA 3pm Spanish striker Michu will be absent from the Swansea squad.
Michu has endured an injury-ravaged season due to persistent ankle trouble, and he is now s
Defender Chico Flores is again ruled out by suspension following his sending-off in the 1-0 defeat against Chelsea 12 days ago, with Jordi Amat set to deputise.
Swansea go into the Villa game six points clear of relegation danger with three games left.
Defender Joe Bennett is the only fresh injury concern for Aston Villa.
Bennett is a doubt for the game at the Liberty Stadium after picking up an ankle problem in training this week.
Villa already have the likes of Christian Benteke, Libor Kozak, Charles N'Zogbia, Jores Okore and Gary Gardner out of action, while it remains to be seen whether or not striker Nicklas Helenius returns to the matchday squad after his thigh injury.
WEST BROM v WEST HAM 3pm West Brom centre-back Gareth McAuley will undergo a late fitness test.
McAuley sat out the 3-1 loss at Manchester City on Monday due to a calf problem that Albion are hoping he will have recovered from in time to face the Hammers.
Fellow defender Liam Ridgewell will definitely miss out because of the knee injury he sustained in the City contest, while on-loan winger Scott Sinclair is available again after being ineligible for that meeting with his parent club.
Norwich will again be without Joseph Yobo for the relegation-threatened Canaries.
The on-loan Nigeria defender has a calf injury, but should return to first-team training next week.
Winger Elliott Bennett is back in contention after completing his rehabilitation from his serious knee injury.
Norwich squad: Ruddy, Whittaker, Turner, Martin, Olsson, Fer, Johnson, Howson, Snodgrass, Redmond, Hooper, Bunn, Van Wolfswinkel, Murphy, Hoolahan, Garrido, E Bennett, R Bennett, Tettey, Bassong.
SUNDAY 27 APRIL
SUNDERLAND v CARDIFF 12.00 Striker Craig Bellamy is set to play a part for Cardiff at the Stadium of Light.
The 34-year-old, who has been sidelined due to a virus, is poised for a role in manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad as Cardiff look to build on collecting four points in their last two games against Southampton and Stoke.
Winger Craig Noone (abdominal injury) is the solitary confirmed non-starter, with Solskjaer reporting no fresh injury concerns following the Stoke clash six days ago.
Midfielder Liam Bridcutt returns to the Sunderland squad.
The 24-year-old has missed the last three games for personal reasons but is available once again, as is full-back Phil Bardsley after serving a two-match ban, with the Black Cats attempting to build upon last weekend's shock 2-1 victory at Chelsea.
However, defender Carlos Cuellar will not be risked as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury, while midfielder Ki Sung-yueng (knee) also remains on the sidelines along with keeper Keiren Westwood (shoulder) and striker Steven Fletcher (ankle).
LIVERPOOL v CHELSEA 2.05pm Striker Daniel Sturridge faces a late assessment to see whether he is fit enough to return from a hamstring injury.
The England international missed last week's win at Norwich with the problem but has progressed well in training, and should he be ready midfielder Lucas Leiva is likely to miss out.
On-loan winger Victor Moses is ineligible against his parent club and midfielder Jordan Henderson serves the second game of a three-match ban.
Jose Mourinho is considering wholesale changes due to the proximity of the Champions League semi-final second leg with Atletico Madrid next Wednesday.
The Blues are afflicted by injuries to goalkeeper Petr Cech (shoulder), captain John Terry (ankle), playmaker Eden Hazard (calf) and Samuel Eto'o (knee), while midfielder Ramires' season is over after he received a four-match ban for striking Sebastian Larsson in the loss to Sunderland.
Nemanja Matic and Mohamed Salah are ineligible in Europe so are likely to feature, while Frank Lampard and John Obi Mikel are available ahead of European bans, with all four likely to be selected at Liverpool.
CRYSTAL PALACE v MANCHESTER CITY 4.10pm David Silva and winger Jesus Navas will both miss City's trip to Palace with ankle injuries, but Yaya Toure should be available again to bolster the midfield.
Toure suffered a muscle injury in the 3-2 defeat to Liverpool earlier this month but is now ready to return for the Blues.
Defender Matija Nastasic, out of action since February because of a knee injury, remains out.
Arsenal expect to have captain Thomas Vermaelen back from a hamstring problem.
Midfielder Abou Diaby will not be rushed into a return from a serious knee injury after reporting a slight groin problem after playing for the Under-21s in midweek.
Defender Kieran Gibbs (hamstring) is still sidelined along with England midfielder Jack Wilshere (foot), Serge Gnabry and Theo Walcott (both knee).
Newcastle boss Alan Pardew will hope for a further fitness boost.
Midfielder Moussa Sissoko is back in training after missing the last three games with a hamstring problem and could feature at the Emirates Stadium, while full-back Mathieu Debuchy and striker Loic Remy could return to the starting line-up after appearing as substitutes in last weekend's 2-1 home defeat by Swansea.
However, strikers Papiss Cisse (knee) and Luuk de Jong (ankle) are likely to be missing as medics continue to assess the extent of the injuries they suffered against the Swans, and midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa (dead leg) is still struggling.
