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Adam Federici will put his Wembley blunder behind him when Reading take on Birmingham in the Sky Bet Championship, according to manager Steve Clarke. The Australian goalkeeper let a tame Alexis Sanchez shot slip through his grasp in the sixth minute of extra-time as the Royals were narrowly beaten 2-1 by Arsenal in Saturday's FA Cup semi-final. It was a cruel blow for Federici, who had kept the Gunners at bay with a string of fine saves, but Reading boss Clarke is confident the 30-year-old will bounce back. Adam Federici fails to Alexis Sanchez's shot from crossing the line at Wembley on Saturday evening. The Reading goalkeeper struggles to contain his emotions after his side's FA Cup semi-final defeat. 'It's the life of a goalkeeper,' Clarke told Reading Player. 'Adam was obviously very upset because he feels responsible for the defeat. 'It's much better in a game like that, that if you have to lose you lose to a moment of brilliance. That wasn't the case. 'As I said after the game, we win together, we lose together. Adam is a strong character. All the players are 100 per cent behind him, the staff are 100 per cent behind him - he'll bounce back . 'On Wednesday night when we play Birmingham, he'll be typical Adam Federici - one of our best players.' Federici will come up against an in-form striker in the shape of Clayton Donaldson. The 31-year-old former Brentford frontman is among the favourites to be named Blues' player of the year after hitting 15 goals this season, and manager Gary Rowett admits he is 'almost undroppable'. Reading boss Steve Clarke has backed Federici to bounce back against Birmingham in the Championship. 'He's been brilliant,' Rowett told the club website. 'He's got a little bit of everything. He's decent in the air, he's got very good pace, he holds the ball up well for others, he's got a little bit of physicality and he scores goals. 'I think he's been as good as any striker in this division and I think we're very lucky to have him. I think he's the reason why we've got some very good players like Lee Novak, Wes Thomas and Nikola Zigic, who have not played very much. 'I feel sorry for them but the reason is Clayton at the moment has been almost undroppable with his recent performances.'

Adam Federici allowed Alexis Sanchez's shot to squirm through his legs. His error meant Arsenal advanced to the FA Cup final after extra-time. Reading boss Steve Clarke has backed his goalkeeper to get back on track. The Royals face Birmingham in the Championship on Wednesday night.

West Ham are confident that the deal to move into the Olympic Stadium does not contravene domestic or European legislation and 'categorically' stated that it does not constitute state aid. The Premier League club are set to move into the London 2012 showpiece venue for the start of 2016-17 season, but the journey there has been a tortuous one, fraught with controversy. Fresh questions were raised about the award of the 99-year lease to West Ham on Tuesday, when it was suggested the deal may contravene European state aid law. David Sullivan, Boris Johnson, Karren Brady, Sir Robin Wales and David Gold at the Olympic Stadium. West Ham trio Diafra Sakho, Winston Reid and Mark noble smile for the camera at the Olympic Stadium. The report suggests the failure of London Mayor Boris Johnson and the London Legacy Development Corporation to obtain prior approval from the European Commission before signing the deal opens up the possibility of challenges from anyone who feels disadvantaged. That could leave West Ham facing a large compensation bill, but the club defended their position in a lengthy statement about the Olympic Stadium deal. A West Ham spokesman said: 'West Ham United is confident that its agreement with the LLDC complies with all relevant UK and European legislation and categorically does not constitute state aid. 'Indeed, the European Commission looked into a complaint in relation to our move to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in 2013 but 'decided not to further pursue' the matter. 'The club was selected as anchor concessionaire following a fair, transparent and robust process that was open to any group or organisation in the country. 'Out of the four proposals submitted, West Ham's was selected as it delivered a sustainable and viable future for the Stadium and, crucially, provided the best return for the taxpayer. An artist's impression of what the Olympic Stadium would look like during a West Ham match. Club are confident that the deal to move into stadium does not contravene domestic or European legislation. 'The agreement with the LLDC will see West Ham make a substantial capital contribution towards the conversion works of a Stadium that it may only rent for up to 25 matchdays a year, pay a multimillion pound annual usage fee, as well as offering a share of food and catering sales from its supporters. 'The worldwide draw of hosting the most popular and watched football league in the world in such an iconic venue will add value to any sponsorship and commercial agreements related to the Stadium, which the public purse stands to further benefit from. Premier League club are set to move into the London 2012 showpiece venue for the start of 2016-17 season. Fresh questions were raised about the award of the 99-year lease to West Ham on Tuesday. 'It is clear that the linking of the naming rights to West Ham United generates real cash value for the LLDC. 'Without West Ham United, the Stadium would continue to cost the taxpayer millions of pounds a year. 'With us, the public purse will see a return on the hundreds of millions of pounds that were committed to build the Stadium, long before West Ham's association had begun.' New reports could mean Premier League side West Ham face a large compensation bill for their troubles.

Fresh questions have been raised over West Ham's Olympic Stadium move. It is suggested the upcoming move may contravene European state aid law. Club confident deal doesn't contravene domestic or European legislation. West Ham chiefs 'categorically' state that it does not constitute state aid.

If Bayern Munich manage to overturn the 3-1 Champions League quarter-final first leg scoreline handed to them by Porto last week, Xabi Alonso will have his eyes on a very special record. Should Pep Guardiola's side go all the way and claim this season's title as European champions, Alonso will become only the second player to win European football's top trophy with three clubs having held it during his time at Liverpool and Real Madrid. The only other player to have done so is AC Milan legend Clarence Seedorf, who lifted the famous piece of silverware for Ajax, Real Madrid and Milan. Xabi Alonso could become only the second player to win the Champions League with three different teams. Alonso in action during Bayern Munich's 3-1 Champions League quarter-final defeat against Porto last week. It is quite an achievement, and one that the Spanish maestro recently admitted to thinking about. 'There is one player who has won three Champions Leagues with three different clubs: [Clarence] Seedorf. Of course it is in my mind. The end of my career is near,' Alonso told The Telegraph. 'I don't have many years left but it is one of the targets. It is an individual target and it would be great to win the third one with a third club because the Champions League is special,' he added. Alonso won the Champions League in his first season at Liverpool when he scored the decisive equaliser in 2005. And last season he was part of Carlo Ancelotti's side to take the title, even though his yellow cards throughout the tournament meant he was forced to sit in the stands for the final win over Atletico Madrid. Alonso celebrates winning Europe's top club prize in his first season with Liverpool in 2005. Alonso (on the ground) scored the equaliser for Liverpool during the 3-3 against AC Milan before the English club won 3-2 on penalties. Jose Bosingwa - Porto (2004), Chelsea (2012) Paulo Ferreira - Porto (2004), Chelsea (2012) Cristiano Ronaldo - United (2008) Madrid (2014) Deco - Porto (2004), Barcelona (2006) Thiago Motta - Barcelona (2006), Inter Milan (2010) Owen Hargreaves - Bayern Munich (2001), United (2008) Paulo Sousa - Juventus (1996), Dortmund (1997) Vladimir Jugovic - Red Star Belgrade (1991), Juventus (1996) Didier Deschamps - Marseille (1993), Juventus (1996) Edwin van der Sar - Ajax (1995), United (2008) Christian Panucci - Milan (1994), Madrid (1998) Marcel Desailly - Marseille (1993), Milan (1994) Dejan Savicevic - Red Star Belgrade (1991), Milan (1994) Ronald Koeman - PSV (1988), Barcelona (1992) Miodrag Belodedici - Steaua Bucurest (1986), Red Star Belgrade (1991) Jimmy Rimmer - United (1968), Villa (1982) Saul Malatrasi - Inter Milan (1965), Milan (1969) Seedorf won the title a total of four times in his illustrious career - in 1995 with Ajax, 1998 with Madrid and twice with Milan, in 2003 and 2007. At 33 and with a club as strong as Bayern on a two-year deal under Pep Guardiola, Alonso could even attempt to match Seedorf's total achievement. Thiago Motta could also equal Seedorf's record if he manages to earn a Champions League medal with Paris Saint-Germain, but the 32-year-old midfielder has his work cut-out as the Ligue 1 side trail to a 3-1 aggregate scoreline against Barcelona. Names to have retired with two Champions League medals while at two different teams include the likes of Deco with Porto (2004) and Barcelona (2006) and former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar who had been part of the 1995 Ajax squad before holding the trophy once again with the Red Devils. Midfielder Thiago Motta could would equal Seedorf's record if he were to win the Champions League with PSG. The Spaniard was suspended for Real Madrid's Champions League final victory against Atletico last year. Clarence Seedorf (centre) won four Champions League with three clubs, including two with AC Milan. The Dutch midfielder celebrates with the famous trophy after Madrid's victory against Juventus in 1998.

Xabi Alonso won UEFA Champions League with Liverpool and Real Madrid. He scored the vital equaliser for the Reds in his first season at the club. The Spaniard was in Real Madrid's triumphant side last season. Clarence Seedorf won with Ajax, Real Madrid and twice with AC Milan. Bayern suffered 3-1 quarter-final first leg defeat against Porto. Thiago Motta has also won European trophy with two different clubs.

Liverpool have been given the go-ahead to install a privacy screen around their Melwood training ground. The club has grown concerned that confidential team details have been leaked out before matches as opportune observers and photographers watch their training sessions. The club proposed a 4.5metre fine mesh screen to be installed and Liverpool City Council planning committee has given its approval on Tuesday. Liverpool have been given permission to install a 4.5metre fine mesh privacy screen at their Melwood base. The club had grown concerns over confidentiality of their team details being leaked prior to matches. The news will please manager Brendan Rodgers (centre) who can now prepare his side with extra care. Local resident Thomas Jones explained how many neighbours to the training complex wanted a designated area for fans to be able to watch the players and did not want a screen put up. He described how residents have had several problems with fans keen to see the team train. Some have taken bins out of residents' paths to stand on as they try to watch the Liverpool players. He said last week a coach of Japanese tourists arrived to observe training from outside only to be turned away. A curtain of fine mesh will now cover at least one pitch and further talks are planned with residents. Local residents wanted a designated area for fans to be able to watch training and did not want a screen up.

Liverpool City Council planning committee gave its approval on Tuesday. Liverpool had grown concerns over confidentiality of their team details. Opportune observers and photographers have watched sessions in past. Stan Collymore: Liverpool should have patience with Brendan Rodgers. READ: Juventus monitoring Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling.

David Moyes has revealed that Chelsea were close to signing Wayne Rooney during his ill-fated tenure as Manchester United manager. Moyes, who gave Rooney his professional debut as a 16-year-old at Everton, succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson in the summer of 2013 - with the England striker being heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge at the same time. The pair had a well-publicised falling out following Rooney's departure from Goodison Park in 2004, but Moyes fought hard to retain the United forward's services at Old Trafford. Wayne Rooney (left) tracks Eden Hazard during Manchester United's clash with Chelsea on Saturday. Rooney gets a shot away despite the attention of Kurt Zouma during his side's 1-0 loss at Stamford Bridge. 'I look at Wayne Rooney. I gave him his professional debut aged 16 and he's now on the verge of breaking all Manchester United's scoring records,' Moyes told the Sunday Times. 'It was only a short time ago that Wayne could have easily left United. But I always felt he was as good as any British player out there; wherever he plays, he's a great footballer and, most importantly, he'll always score goals. 'Now, I'm delighted for Wayne, because Chelsea were close to taking him. Jose (Mourinho) was interested but we wouldn't do any business. David Moyes succeed Sir Alex Ferguson as United manager during the summer of 2013. 'I had to fight to make sure he stayed - and was at the heart again, of what Manchester United were going to be moving forward.' Rooney has been a vital cog in Louis van Gaal's new-look United outfit this season with his side on course on for a Champions League place next year despite their 1-0 loss to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Moyes gave a 16-year-old Rooney his professional debut at Everton back in 2002.

David Moyes gave Wayne Rooney his professional debut at Everton. Moyes was appointed Manchester United's new manager in 2013. Rooney was heavily linked with a move to Chelsea at the same time.

It is a cold, spring night in the heart of Liverpool at a football ground bordering Huyton, where Steven Gerrard grew up, so Paul Scholes is in unfamiliar territory. But he is reluctant to leave. Most of the rest of his party have gone but he lingers as the final minutes are played out, with the score 0-0. It has been a frustrating night for Salford City, the club Scholes co-owns with former Manchester United team-mates Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Phil Neville and Nicky Butt. A draw here at Prescot Cables means automatic promotion will become only an outside possibility. Gary Neville and Paul Scholes attending the Salford City game at home to Clitheroe Town on Saturday. (Left to right) Scholes, Phil Neville, Nicky Butt and Ryan Giggs co-own the club with Gary Neville (not pictured) Salford are attacking the far end of the ground and the view is obscured but, with 90 seconds remaining, the ball breaks for substitute Gareth Seddon about 10 yards out with only the goalkeeper to beat. And even from Scholes’s long-distance view the ripple of net is immediately visible as the ball beats the keeper and Seddon turns away to celebrate. Scholes, too, punches the air, his face beaming as it once did when he scored a last-minute goal against Manchester City in April 2010. ‘We had to win,’ he says, a look of real relief in his eyes. This must compare to watching United in a title run-in. ‘It’s the same,’ he replies nonplussed, before reconsidering. ‘Tonight it has been worse.’ Seddon’s late goal set the wheels in motion for a fantastic run that has seen Salford win six on the bounce, their latest victory away at Burscough on Saturday. It takes them five points clear of Darlington, who have a game in hand, at the top of the Evo-Stik League First Division North (four tiers below the Football League). With one week to go promotion is well and truly in their hands. Win at home to Ossett Town on Saturday and they are up. Remarkably, Salford City are the team who have happened upon five of the biggest names in English football as owners. The former United players, otherwise known as the Class of ’92, are products of the Premier League era which has propelled the game into a celebrity culture. Here, though, they seem in their element and none more so than Scholes. Earlier Phil Neville was with him. ‘This is going to ruin my week, this is,’ he mutters as another chance is wasted. This is near the base of the football pyramid: clearly the players are a lot better than Sunday League footballers but the culture is closer to Hackney Marshes than Old Trafford. Scholes sits in one corner with a friend, while Phil Neville, across the table with his father, Neville, informs him that they will be pairing up with One Direction at a forthcoming Pro-Am Golf Day so Scholes might need a stylist to keep up appearances. Scholes pulls a face while the rest of the group laughs at his expense. Meanwhile, the Prescot committee members quietly discuss a promising first half. The Salford owners are scarcely given a second glance, though there is the occasional photo to pose for. A queue of fans wait for food duing the Evo-Stick League Northern Premier match. Jimmy Birtwhistle, pictured with his grandsons, is a committee member and has looked after the turnstile for the past six years. Although yesterday’s 2-1 win at Burscough extended Salford’s lead at the top, the season has been anything but a smooth ride. The original manager Phil Power was sacked in January and left complaining that the decision was delivered by chairman Karen Baird, with the owners failing to contact him. Both Gary and Phil Neville say they did contact him to talk through their reasons but the offer was refused. ‘That was a low moment and not something we want to do often because there are good people at this level and you don’t want them to lose their job,’ said Phil Neville. ‘This season has been a massive learning curve. The biggest lesson we have learnt is we have to take a step away from the playing and coaching side. Let the managers manage and players play. At this level, they are the experts, not us.’ The club are now managed by the duo of Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley, who won promotion from this league last season with Ramsbottom United. When Power was in charge, Scholes and Phil Neville attended training and helped out with sessions but, under the new managers, that has come to an end. ‘We had become the meddling owners, everything we didn’t want to be,’ said Phil Neville. Gary Neville takes up the story. ‘Phil and Paul became quite involved in the first three or four months and we found that what might have been seen as a positive didn’t work out that way,’ he said. ‘The players would hear different voices — one week they would be there, the next they’re not there. With coaching, it’s about consistency and repetition. What was seen as being assistance for the previous manager and creating a buzz just didn’t work. ‘The sadness of it all is that we did lose a manager and it was not something we wanted to do. It was not something that we felt good about.’ There have been other adjustments to the non-League level. ‘You never win away games at night in midweek,’ said Phil Neville. ‘Players are tired after a day’s work; often they’ve rushed to the ground sometimes without eating properly; naturally they fade late on.’ Former Manchester United striker Danny Webber now plays for Salford City. Salford City's game against Clitheroe Town on Saturday was free admission for fans. Captain Christopher Lynch works a night shift loading gas bottles, physically demanding work, and usually has to come off after 70 minutes in evening games to go to work. The owners have tried to address the fatigue problem, with the team meeting in a hotel for salad, pasta, chicken and salmon a few hours before their matches. ‘At the start of the season we had a perfect vision that we’ll have the manager now for the next 20 years and we’ll have a set of young players and they’ll see us all the way to the Football League,’ said Phil Neville. ‘But as time has gone on, we’ve learnt from speaking to teams that have come through the divisions, like Fleetwood, Fylde and AFC Wimbledon, that you have to be ruthless.’ If there has been a loss of innocence, there is at least a better understanding of an owner’s lot. ‘You can understand how, when emotions are running high, owners can make bad emotional decisions like bringing players in on big money and putting yourself under financial pressure,’ said Phil Neville. ‘I can see how it runs away with you. When you lose a couple of games you think: “Oh, we need a new player. Let’s just push the budget out a little bit and we’ll make it back here.” But you never make it back.’ LEFT TO RIGHT TOP ROW - Phil Neville, Robbie, Savage, Raimond Van Der Gouw, John O'Kane, Mikael Silvestre, Quinton Fortune. LEFT TO RIGHT BOTTOM ROW - Nicky Butt, Gary Neville, Raphael Burke, Ryan Giggs Paul Scholes line up for a Class of '92 v Salford City match last August. Gary Neville added: ‘When we jumped into this we thought this is going to be a big challenge and a lot of people are going to be looking at how this goes. But actually, no matter what happens, if we’re still watching this level of football in five years’ time, we’ll be disappointed because we won’t have progressed, but we’ll still be happy every week. ‘It brings us back down to earth.We might be coaching with England or United or doing a Premier League game or Champions League game in Barcelona. Then three days later you’re at Brighouse away or Ossett Town and there’s a tea lady at half-time saying: “Do you want a cup of tea, love?” It’s just real. People at this level do it for the passion of their clubs and their communities. And though Giggs and Butt haven’t been able to attend as much, because of their coaching duties at Manchester United, Scholes and Phil Neviile clearly feel the same. ‘At the start we asked ourselves why we were doing it,’ said Phil Neville. ‘But when you come down to training, go to matches and mix with the supporters, it just feels real. ‘There’s a simplicity at this level. It’s exciting to watch. I know we want the game to be played in a beautiful way but there is also something beautiful about the style at this level. The roots of English football are actually in the Evo-Stik League.’

Class of '92 owners of Salford City discuss their non-league club. Paul Scholes, Phil Neville and Gary Neville co-own alongside former Manchester United team-mates Nicky Butt and Ryan Giggs. Salford currently top the Evo-Stik League First Division North.

Manny Pacquiao has promoted a range of t-shirts commemorating his impending bout with Floyd Mayweather in Las Vegas on May 2. He uploaded a picture to Instagram of one the shirts, named 'fight gear' on the website selling the merchandise, which is black and has 'The Fight of the Century, Mayweather vs Pacquiao' with a picture of the Filipino boxer across it. Pacquiao wrote 'Get your fight shirts now at MayPacGear.com,' alongside the t-shirt that features him glaring out of the centre. Manny Pacquiao uploaded a picture of one of the shirts made ahead of his fight with Floyd Mayweather. Fans can also choose to buy a shirt in the colours black or white commemorating the encounter. The cheapest shirt has an 'M' for Mayweather' above a 'P' for Pacquiao. Mayweather (left) takes on Pacquiao in what should be an enthralling encounter on May 2 in Las Vegas. In total, there are four shirts for sale, three of which cost $29.99 (321) and one priced at $24.99 (£21). Fans are also able to purchase a shirt with both fighters on, in black or white, which reads 'pound for pound the fight of the century, Mayweather vs Pacquiao.' The final shirt available to supporters has an 'M' for Mayweather over a 'P' for Pacquiao, and is the cheapest of the four on offer. Mayweather and Pacquiao's fight is reportedly set to generate a mouth-watering $300million (£205million). Pacquiao is looking to inflict a first-ever career defeat upon Mayweather.

Manny Pacquiao fights Floyd Mayweather in Las Vegas on May 2. Pacquiao shared a picture of a range of t-shirts marking the fight. The Filipino boxer is looking to inflict Mayweather's first defeat upon him.

Laura Robson took the opportunity to cool down in the Florida heat on Thursday while she dipped in an ice bath as the British tennis nears a return to action after more than a year off the court. The 21-year-old has not played since the 2014 Australian Open more than 15 months ago after requiring surgery on an injured wrist. But Robson, who has been training in Tampa in a bid to build up her fitness in time to take part in next month's French Open at Roland Garros. Laura Robson used an ice bath as a means of cooling down in the Florida heat as she nears a return to action. Laura Robson (centre) shared a picture on Instagram of her at Tortuga festival with two friends. The former British No 1 was pictured sitting in an ice bath after a practice session and shared the picture on social media. 'No issues with ice baths when it's this hot in Florida,' Robson wrote on Facebook. The latest social media update comes days after Robson spent time relaxing at country music festival Tortuga. Robson's last appearance came in the 2014 Australian Open first round where she lost in straight sets. Robson (left) had to wear a protective cast last year but tweeted a picture back on the court last month. The 21-year-old shared a photo on Instagram of her soaking up the sun with two friends and captioned the image 'Country music is the best music #tortuga.' Robson, once ranked as high as 29 in the womens' game, withdrew from the qualifying event of last month's Miami Open before removing her name from the entry list to the WTA Tour event in Bogota later this month.

Laura Robson has been out injured since the Australian Open in 2014. Robson is targeting a return to action at the French Open in May. The 21-year-old had surgery on injured wrist and is nearing full recovery. Robson, training in Florida, was pictured sitting in an ice bath on Thursday.

Sam Allardyce believes Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Rob Green is good enough to challenge England No 1 Joe Hart for a place in the national team. Green, capped 12 times, endured a famously turbulent time as England goalkeeper, with his calamitous error in England’s 1-1 draw with USA at the 2010 World Cup a particular lowlight. But after a fine 2011-12 season with Allardyce’s West Ham in the Championship, he gained his first international cap since World Cup humiliation. And Allardyce, whose side face Green and Co at Loftus road on Saturday, still holds his former stopper in high esteem and thinks the 35-year-old could once again stake a claim to be England’s main man between the posts. Rob Green trains ahead of QPR's Premier League match against his former club West Ham on Saturday. Green has won 12 England caps but made a calamitous error in the World Cup against USA in 2010. The QPR goalkeeper allowed a speculative effort to go through his hands and was unable to retrieve it. The ball trickled over the line as Clint Dempsey's strike earned USA a 1-1 in the opening group match. ‘He could rival Joe Hart,’ Allardyce began. ‘Robert has had an unfortunate England career by the fact that, when called upon, he made a mistake that has probably haunted him for a while. ‘If he has overcome that, the experience he has gained since should make him a better goalkeeper. And after a difficult time at QPR, he has shone through because of his dedication.’ Green swapped east for west London after West Ham sealed promotion back to the Premier League with a 2-1 play-off final victory over Blackpool. And Allardyce, who was forced to let Green leave on a free transfer due to financial constraints, thinks the keeper will be crucial to QPR’s bid to avoid the drop. ‘Financially we couldn't get there – that was the key element,’ Allardyce said of West Ham’s attempts to keep Green at the club. West Ham manager Sam Allardyce says Green can rival Joe Hart for England No 1 spot. Green faces his old club at Loftus Road on Saturday as QPR bid to beat the drop. ‘It wasn't that Robert didn't want to stay – he did. But we couldn't match, at that time, his financial demands and QPR did. ‘Robert is a dedicated goalkeeper who works tirelessly on his game, and has a huge amount of experience now which, hopefully – not on Saturday – will help QPR stay up.’

West Ham take on QPR at Loftus Road in the Premier League on Saturday. Rob Green played for Sam Allardyce at West Ham during 2011-12 season. Green has 12 England caps but made calamitous error at 2010 World Cup. The West Ham manager believes the mistake has haunted Green ever since. But thinks he is capable of challenging Joe Hart for the England No 1 spot.

Floyd Mayweather has claimed he is a better fighter than Muhammad Ali. Mayweather, who takes on Manny Pacquiao in their $300 million mega-fight on May 2, is widely considered to be the current pound-for-pound No 1. But he believes there has never been a better boxer in the history of the sport. Floyd Mayweather trains ahead of his fight against Manny Pacquiao next weekend. In an interview ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, Mayweather said: 'No one can ever brainwash me to make me believe that Sugar Ray Robinson and Muhammad Ali was better than me. No one could ever brainwash me and tell me that. 'But one thing I will do, I'm going to take my hat off to them and respect those guys because those are the guys that paved the way for me to be where I'm at today.' When asked if he truly believed he was better than Ali, Mayweather recalled the heavyweight losing his world titles to Leon Spinks in 1978. Muhammad Ali suffered a shock defeat to Leon Spinks who had only fought seven times previously. The inexperienced Spinks celebrates his surprise 15 round split decision victory over Ali. 'Leon Spinks only had seven fights,' he said. 'Never put a fighter in there with Floyd Mayweather with seven fights.' Mayweather also criticised the 'rope-a-dope' tactics adopted by Ali against George Foreman in their Rumble in the Jungle. 'Are you going to tell me its cool to lay on the ropes and take punishment and let a man tire himself out from beating you,' he said. 'He's basically fatigued - you hit him with a few punches and he goes down and quits. You want to be glorified for that? Absolutely not, not me.' Ali adopted his famous 'rope-a-dope' tactics before stopping George Foreman in the Rumble in the Jungle.

Floyd Mayweather is widely considered the best boxer in the world. But he believes he is better than heavyweight legend Muhammad Ali. Mayweather did admit that he respects both Ali and Sugar Ray Robinson. He takes on Manny Pacquiao on May 2 in their $300m mega-fight. Mayweather-Pacquiao weigh-in will be first ever with paid-for tickets.

Manager Micky Adams has left Tranmere by mutual consent with just two games of the season to play. Rovers suffered a fourth consecutive defeat on Saturday, leaving them bottom of Sky Bet League Two and two points adrift of safety. Adams failed to show for his post-match press conference after the 3-0 loss by Oxford while supporters demonstrated outside the ground, calling for the manager to leave. Those fans got their wish on Sunday, with the club confirming the news in a statement on their official website. Tranmere manager Micky Adams has left his role at Prenton Park following his side's defeat by Oxford. Fans of the League Two side called for Adams to leave the club after their 3-0 loss on Saturday afternoon. It read: 'We thank Micky for his work at Tranmere Rovers having taken over the club at a difficult time and wish him all the best for the future. 'The focus of the first team and everybody at the club is now on the fight to the finish with a game at Plymouth Argyle on Saturday April 25 when three points could lift them above both Hartlepool United and Cheltenham Town.' Adams joined the club in October, with Rovers sitting bottom of the table after 12 games. The former Leicester manager, who sat in the stands for the 2-0 defeat by Oxford in October before officially taking charge, lost just two of his first 13 games at the helm. Tranmere reached the third round of the FA Cup, where they were beaten 6-2 by Barclays Premier League side Swansea, but a five-match unbeaten run in the league around the game saw them end January in 17th. But since then, Adams has overseen just two wins in 17 games and a run of four games without even scoring. Assistant manager Alan Rogers and academy manager Shaun Garnett will take temporary charge of first-team affairs. Tranmere have not been outside the Football League since joining in 1921.

Micky Adams has left role at Prenton Park with just two games left to play. Tranmere fans called for Adams to leave the club after 3-0 loss by Oxford. Rovers are two points adrift of safety with just two games left to play.

Twickenham will stage a thunderous collision between two French juggernauts in 13 days’ time, although Toulon’s crusade to win an unprecedented third successive European title nearly stalled at Stade Velodrome on Sunday. On this faltering, unconvincing evidence, the holders of the last Heineken Cup face a mammoth task if they are to stop Clermont Auvergne from claiming the inaugural Champions Cup. Bernard Laporte’s stellar side didn’t come to life until this dismal encounter went into extra-time and they were only galvanised once they had been reduced to 14 men, when Ali Williams was sin-binned for taking out Devin Toner in the air. Toulon winger Bryan Habana races away for a decisive try in extra-time against Leinster. Habana intercepted Ian Madigan's long pass to race away unopposed at Stade Velodrome. Leinster full back Rob Kearney beats Toulon flanker Juan Fernandez Lobbe to a high ball in the first-half. Instead of being undermined by the loss of the ex-All Blacks lock, Toulon scored the crucial points while he was off the field. Their victory was founded on the composed goal-kicking of their Welsh Lion at full-back, Leigh Halfpenny, who finished with 20 points from six penalties and a conversion. Leinster attempted to capitalise on their numerical advantage and it backfired in the 90th minute as Ian Madigan’s long pass was intercepted by Bryan Habana and the Springbok wing stormed clear to for the game’s only try. That the one fleeting flicker of creativity stemmed from an error was fitting. The Irish province wouldn’t go quietly and when Sean O’Brien went over from a close-range lineout drive, they were back in the hunt with five minutes remaining, but it wasn’t to be. So, the climax of the new continental tournament will have a familiar feel. Toulon vs Clermont is an all-French repeat of the 2013 Heineken Cup Final in Dublin, which the Cote d’Azur club won despite being dominated by Clermont for much of the game. Last year, they gave Jonny Wilkinson the perfect career sign-off with another triumph in Cardiff – where Saracens were dispatched – and now they are closing in on a hat-trick. But there was no swagger about them on Sunday, or any sustained power surges for that matter. It was unusually wet by the Mediterranean and the conditions made handling difficult, but that didn’t account for the sheer deluge of fumbles made by both sides. As a showcase of Europe’s elite event, this stop-start contest left much to be desired. For all the effort and commitment, there was no fluency or cohesion, no rhythm or flow. The teams simply took it in turns to launch a raid and either spill the ball or concede a turnover. Leinster centre Madigan fires over one of his five successful penalties against Toulon. English referee Wayne Barnes became the pantomime villain of the home supporters for repeatedly penalising their idols, but he had every right to on several occasions, particularly when Xavier Chiocci, the Toulon loosehead prop, was being dismantled by Ireland tighthead Mike Ross in the scrum. As an occasion, this was several notches below the blood-and-thunder epic between Clermont and Saracens in St Etienne 24 hours earlier. Clermont’s ‘Yellow Army’ – or ‘Jaunards’ – created a raucous, partisan atmosphere which wasn’t matched here by the Toulon hordes. There was a healthy crowd in excess of 35,000, but that was a long way short of capacity and the noise was often restricted to boos for the officials. Even the Mexican Waves late on were half-hearted. Leinster blindside Jordi Murphy does brilliantly to get up and disrupt a Toulon lineout. Still, it was not all grim. Steffon Armitage made his trademark breakdown impact after coming on as a replacement and Halfpenny’s class stood out throughout – not just as a goal-kicker but, crucially, in the way he handled the aerial onslaught with aplomb. The Wales idol had landed four penalties in normal time but saved his best for the end of the first half of extra-time – just before Habana’s try – when he struck from halfway, with inches to spare. Afterwards, he reflected on the prospect of a first appearance in Europe’s elite final, saying: ‘It’s what I grew up dreaming about. Toulon No 8 Chris Masoe makes a strong run as Leinster scrum half Isaac Boss tries to make the tackle. ‘I grew up watching European Cup Finals and you work hard day-in, day-out to be involved in big games like that. For me, coming to Toulon with the success they’ ve achieved and the ambition they have, I wanted to be part of that. I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity.’ Toulon were fortunate that he took his opportunities on Sunday. It meant that their shortcomings were not critically exposed and they will surely rouse themselves to far greater heights for the final. Their showdown with Clermont will shake Twickenham to its foundations. These twin French giants are the dominant forces of the era - the rest of Europe are chasing their shadows. Toulon full back Leigh Halfpenny makes no mistake from the kicking tee after Leinster infringed.

Ian Madigan kicked five penalties for Leinster. Leigh Halfpenny replied with six three-pointers for Toulon. Toulon lock Ali Williams was yellow carded during extra-time. Bryan Habana raced away for a crucial try shortly afterwards. Leinster flanker Sean O'Brien crossed for a late consolation try.

An elderly man who was bitten by a crocodile while playing golf has defended the creature who attacked him, claiming the 1.2 metre reptile was more frightened than he was and that the spat was partially the golfer's own fault. The victim, John Lahiff has spoken out from his hospital bed at Cairns Base Hospital, swearing he will return to the green again after the nasty run-in with the crocodile at politician Clive Palmer's Port Douglas golf course. On Monday afternoon, the man in his 70s believes he accidentally stood on a sunbaking crocodile on the 11th hole at the Palmer Sea Reef Golf Course, causing the croc to swiftly retaliate. 'I drove the cart around to retrieve the ball - and I didn't see the croc sunbaking just on the edge of the water,' Mr Lahiff told ABC News. Scroll down for video. The victim, John Lahiff has spoken out from his hospital bed at Cairns Base Hospital, swearing he will return to the green again after the nasty run-in with the crocodile. On Monday afternoon, the man in his 70s believes he accidentally stood on a sunbaking crocodile on the 11th hole at the Palmer Sea Reef Golf Course, causing the croc to swiftly retaliate. The golfer received puncture wounds on his leg and foot, including one down to the bone. 'I walked past it and then it got me on the way back and as soon as it grabbed me it took off into the water.' He received puncture wounds on his leg and foot, including one down to the bone. 'I didn't feel a thing,' Mr Lahiff told Ninemsn. 'The only pain I had was last night when they were sticking needles into me.' Incredibly Mr Lahiff, who had been playing alone, was still able to drive his golf buggy back up to the clubhouse to seek medical assistance. 'It's partly my fault ... for disturbing it while it was sunbaking,' he said. 'I think he got more of a fright than me. He's alright.' Mr Lahiff says he has no qualms about returning to the green, explaining he will be sure to steer clear of crocodiles in future and ensure he doesn't hit balls in the water. Incredibly Mr Lahiff, who had been playing alone, was still able to drive his golf buggy back up to the clubhouse to seek medical assistance. Mr Lahiff says he has no qualms about returning to the green, explaining he will be sure to steer clear of crocodiles in future and ensure he doesn't hit balls in the water. The 70-year-old man was playing golf on Monday at the Palmer Sea Reef Golf Course, owned by Clive Palmer. Palmer United Party leader Clive Palmer, who owns the golf course, gave the victim some potentially unwelcome advice on how to avoid a similar injury in future. 'I'd advise people not to step on crocodiles,' he said. 'I suppose you can understand how it would respond to having someone step on its back.' He also took to his Twitter account following the incident to send his well wishes to the injured man. 'I would like to wish the well-known local man who was attacked by a crocodile in Port Douglas this afternoon a speedy recovery,' Mr Palmer tweeted. But hours later, the billionaire posted a bizarre joke: 'Crocodile has been removed from all menus at Palmer properties following today's incident with a member of our Port Douglas Golf Course.' The tweets followed after emergency services were called to the course after reports of a man being bitten on the leg shortly after 4pm. A Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia the man suffered puncture wounds on his left calf. The man, who was a member at the golf course, was treated by paramedics at the scene before he was taken to Mossman District Hospital in a stable condition. Palmer United Party leader Clive Palmer posted his well wishes to the injured man on his Twitter account. Mr Palmer took to his Twitter account to send his well wishes to the man following the incident. A Department of Environment and Heritage Protection spokesperson told ABC News it was not unusual to see crocodiles in the area. 'Crocodiles are known to be in the area and access the golf course via creeks, and as such, warning signs are in place,' the spokesperson said. 'It is not the first time a crocodile has been removed from a golf course in the region.' Queensland Ambulance has confirmed an elderly man was bitten on the leg by a crocodile on Monday. An elderly man has reportedly been attacked by a crocodile while he was playing golf in Queensland. Emergency services were called about 4pm and treated the man at the scene before taking him to hospital.

Senior golfer John Lahiff was attacked by a crocodile in Queensland. Lahiff was playing golf solo at the Palmer Sea Reef Golf Course on Monday. He says he didn't feel a thing during the attack and was even able to drive himself in a golf buggy to the clubhouse to seek help. Golf owner Clive Palmer sent his well wishes to the man after the attack. Recovering in hospital, Lahiff says the croc was more scared than he was. Lahiff feels bad for accidentally disturbing the sunbaking crocodile which he didn't see as he retrieved his golf ball.

The executions of Bali Nine duo Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran is 'only a matter of time', Indonesian President Joko Widodo has confirmed. Chan and Sukumaran are set to face the firing squad alongside eight other drug felons as soon as all appeals have concluded. The pair lost their most recent appeal for clemency however three of the other death row prisoners are still awaiting the results of their appeals. Scroll down for video. The Indonesian President has confirmed 'it will only be a matter of time' before convicted drug smugglers Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran face the firing squad. President Widodo told the Indonesian news agency Antara that while he would not interfere with the inmates' outstanding legal appeals, the executions would take place upon their conclusion. 'When it will be done is no longer a question,' he said. 'It is only awaiting the conclusion of all procedures and the legal process, which I will not interfere in. 'It is only a matter of time.' Chan and Sukumaran remain in an isolated cell on Nusakambangan Island where they have lodged a challenge with the Constitutional Court to have their death sentence overturned. President Widodo said while he would not interfere with the inmates' outstanding legal appeals, the executions would take place upon their conclusion. According to the Indonesian Attorney-General, the pair won't be executed until the conclusion of the Asian African conference being held in Jakarta this week. He said it would not be appropriate to kill them with so many guests visiting for the bi-centennial gathering. Chan and Sukumaran remain in an isolated cell on Nusakambangan Island where they have lodged a challenge with the Constitutional Court to have their death sentence overturned.

Indonesian President Widodo warned it won't be long until convicted drug smugglers Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran face the firing squad. The two Australians will be put to death along eight other drug felons. Three of them are currently awaiting the results of their appeals. President Widodo said he will not get involved in outstanding appeals.

Faced with deplorable conditions at a ‘horrendous’ hotel in Cyprus, two lads from Cambridge tried to make the most of it by creating a hilarious video diary for their friends back home. The three-and-a-half minute video, titled ‘Never letting him book a hotel again’, offers a glimpse into every traveller’s nightmare – dirty rooms, antiquated or broken amenities and a swimming pool no one would dare to enter. With scenes reminiscent of The Inbetweeners films, the video was created by Patrick Miller and his friend, Damien, who stayed at the family-run hotel last week when they travelled to the Mediterranean island for a friend’s wedding. Patrick Miller, from Cambridge, 'swims' in the shallow end of the pool, which doesn't have any water. The deep end of the swimming pool at the hotel was filled with green sludge, dead insects and debris. Patrick Miller, a self-employed personal trainer, created the amusing video with friend Damien Rigden. Patrick said in the video, which has thousands of views on Facebook and YouTube, that he allowed Damien to book the room, and they thought they would be staying at a four-star hotel for three nights. But it didn’t live up to its billing and it didn't match the photos they saw online, as the pair were shocked to find conditions that could have made it one of the worst holidays ever. At the start of the tongue-in-cheek video, Patrick tells the camera: ‘I left all the planning to him. ‘He booked the accommodation and flights. He told me it was a four-star hotel, I was chuffed, and this little video’s going to show you how it panned out.’ Patrick's friend, Damien, stands under an outdoor shower, which no longer works, near the swimming pool. This screen grab from the pair's video shows the hot tub filled with stagnant water and dead flies. The pair explored the hotel, including bathrooms with exposed pipes or missing toilets, in the video. It shows the pair looking annoyed during a flight delay at the airport before they were ‘squashed’ on the plane with very little legroom. Things got worse at the hotel, where they found an unstaffed and empty bar, and a disgusting scene inside the outdoor swimming pool. Patrick, wearing his swimming trunks, decides to get a closer look at he climbs down the rickety ladder. The self-employed personal trainer says: ‘I might go for a quick dip. Don’t mind if I do. It’s lovely in here’. Patrick Miller stands in uncut, waist-high grass on the grounds of the 'four-star' hotel in Cyprus. The lads' hotel room overlooked a dirty car park, where a lorry was abandoned, and a busy road. The camera then pans to show him ‘swimming’ on the floor of the shallow end of the pool, which has no water. It then pans even further to the deep end, which is filled with green sludge, dead insects and debris. They find the same problems when Patrick checks out the hot tub. He sarcastically tells Damien: ‘Oh, ledge, I fancy a Jacuzzi before we play tennis. Oh no, I think there’s a fly in the water.’ Later scenes show a tennis court without the net strung up, an outdoor shower that doesn’t work, a depressing hotel room view of a dirt car park with an abandoned lorry, paint peeling off the walls, and lights that don’t work or fittings that are missing altogether. At one point in the video Patrick Miller stands on the dilapidated tennis court with no nets strung up. The hotel's grounds were a fiasco, with overgrown grass and trees and dead flowers. The grounds are a fiasco, with overgrown waist-high grass and trees, dead flowers and downed tree branches. In the end, Patrick said, the holidaymakers got what they paid for from their £15-a-night hotel room, which looked perfect online. He added: 'But when the taxi driver dropped us off there were no lights on at the hotel and no one at reception, so we were a bit scared and wondered what we had come to. The pair stayed at the hotel while they attended a friend's wedding on the Mediterranean island. Patrick said the staff were friendly but they spoke very little English, 'so it was a struggle' to communicate. 'Our room wasn't too bad, the sheets were clean and there was hot water, but when we looked in another bathroom there wasn't even a toilet.' He said the hotel was 'horrendous', but they decided to stay as it was just for a couple of days. 'Outside it was like a ghost town, there was no one about and no atmosphere. The staff were friendly but couldn't speak much English so it was a struggle. 'We tried to point out the problems but they couldn't really understand. We decided to just get on with it and make the best of it.'

Patrick Miller and his friend thought they were staying at a nicer hotel. They arrived to find stagnant, green water in the swimming pool. Hot tub is filled with dead insects and other floating debris. Amenities were antiquated or broken and paint was peeling off the walls. The grounds have uncut grass, dead flowers and downed tree branches.

Suddenly, after close to 14 years of international football and just 33 caps, Michael Carrick is the answer for England. He was very impressive against Italy in a friendly, true; and he has been an important influence on Manchester United’s revival. Yet it would be unfortunate in the extreme if four consecutive England managers had all failed to spot a game-changing wizard in their midst. Here’s the reality. Carrick has made nine competitive starts for England, and the majority have been ordinary at best. He played in the match against Ecuador in the 2006 World Cup, in which England were saved by a David Beckham free-kick, and was then dropped and replaced by the more energetic Owen Hargreaves for the quarter-final with Portugal. Michael Carrick played against Ecuador at the 2006 World Cup but was dropped for the quarter-final. England have won just four competitive matches when Carrick started, including against Poland. Carrick (left) played in the 2-0 defeat by Croatia which went a long way to England missing out on Euro 2008. Under Steve McClaren he started in the disastrous double header of a 0-0 home draw with Macedonia followed by a 2-0 defeat in Croatia — the results that effectively cost England’s place at the 2008 European Championship. He was also part of unconvincing performances in Poland and, particularly, Montenegro under Roy Hodgson. England have won four competitive games in which Carrick has started — against Ecuador, and then San Marino, Poland and Lithuania, all at home. Ecuador were feisty opponents and Carrick struggled to match their intensity; the same in the second half in Montenegro, when England were overwhelmed and fortunate not to lose. The home draw with Macedonia — more than either defeat to Croatia — was the worst result of McClaren’s reign. Carrick was hailed after an impressive performance for England in their friendly draw with Italy last week. Carrick has also been impressive in Manchester United's midfield under Louis van Gaal this season. So the idea that England managers are fools for consistently preferring Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard is misguided. Carrick had chances throughout his career, and little changed. Equally, in less than one year, between May 30, 2009, and May 9, 2010, Lampard scored more goals for club and country than Carrick has in his entire career. Gerrard took slightly longer — outscoring Carrick in entirety between October 24, 2007 and December 13, 2008. And it wasn’t as if Lampard and Gerrard couldn’t pass or put a tackle in, too. Maybe Carrick has improved with age. Maybe he is the best around right now. He certainly deserves to be judged on his current performances, not his past. Just don’t think that there isn’t a reason why his international career underwhelms. They’re not all idiots, these England managers.

Michael Carrick impressed during England's draw with Italy last week. But the midfielder has been ordinary in his nine competitive starts. England won four of those - Ecuador, San Marino, Poland and Lithuania. England bosses consistently preferred Steven Gerrard or Frank Lampard.

Arsenal players are choosing to employ relatives as their agents after FIFA washed their hands of attempts to regulate middle-men. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s father Mark, the former England international, is acting as his representative since Alex split from Impact Sports Management, although Raheem Sterling’s adviser Aidy Ward is also involved. Calum Chambers is on the books of Cassius Sports Management, whose head of talent ID is his stepfather Steve Moss. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is represented by his father, former England international Mark. Calum Chambers  is on the books at Cassius Sports Management; his stepfather works for the company too. Danny Welbeck is looked after by his brothers Chris and Wayne. Danny Welbeck has long been looked after by his brothers Chris and Wayne through their business Markfield Sports Management, while Jack Wilshere’s father Andy remains the major influence on his son’s career, although he has signed up with Ten10 Talent. And Kieran Gibbs also has a soon-to-be family adviser in his mother Donna’s fiance Andy Harris. The trend at Arsenal has coincided with the agency business being thrown into turmoil by FIFA passing the buck to national associations to officiate on agents from April 1. Liverpool club secretary Stuart Hayton is leaving Anfield after just two seasons following 20 years at Wigan, having never settled into the role at the bigger club. Liverpool insist the popular Hayton’s departure ‘by mutual consent’ in May has nothing to do with the various big contract issues facing the club — Raheem Sterling’s stand-off over a new contract, Glen Johnson being on a free at the end of the season having signed for £18m and Jordan Henderson having only one year left on his deal. Fabio Capello and Terry Venables were two conspicuous names missing from the list of England managers who signed the letter prepared by PR agency Milltown backing FA chairman Greg Dyke’s campaign to boost home-grown talent. It is understood Russia manager Capello has yet to provide an answer, while Venables, who spends a lot of time at his hotel in Spain, could not be contacted. Fabio Capello is yet to respond to the letter backing Greg Dyke's campaign to boost home-grown talent. A number of Kent County Cricket Club fans are upset chairman George Kennedy is going to benefit personally from the conversion of an office building inside the club’s St Lawrence headquarters at Canterbury into a five-flat development. Kennedy has loaned Kent more than £1million to improve the ground. Chief executive Jamie Clifford said: ‘Without the chairman’s generosity, the future of this club would have been in serious jeopardy. He has taken the risk with the flats and any profit made will be nowhere near the amount he has put into Kent.’ Stew over Stu’s talks. There is plenty of sensitivity at Twickenham about relationships between chief executive Ian Ritchie and head coach Stuart Lancaster since Ritchie described England’s four successive Six Nations runners-up finishes as ‘unacceptable’. Sports Agenda has since highlighted a couple of upcoming Lancaster speaking engagements on his ‘winning’ formula, while a Sunday newspaper revealed Lancaster being promoted as a guest speaker for hire in a brochure produced by leading agency M & C Saatchi Merlin. Stuart Lancaster's relationship with Ian Ritchie has come under the microscope in recent weeks. This prompted the RFU to send out an unsolicited press statement that M & C Saatchi Merlin had produced and distributed the brochure without Stuart’s permission and have ‘apologised unreservedly’ for the error. Yet the agency say they have nothing to apologise for, especially as Lancaster is well known for being an excellent and enthusiastic speaker on sports management techniques. A different branch of business solutions company CWM is now sponsoring boxing promoter Barry McGuigan’s newspaper column in the Mirror. This comes after its previous backer, CWM’s foreign exchange trading division, found itself at the centre of a fraud and money-laundering investigation. McGuigan’s promotional company is still branded CWM Cyclone. However, Chelsea have parted company with CWM, who were a minor sponsor. CWM said in a statement: ‘CWM believe they have been the victim of an orchestrated campaign initiated by individuals motivated by personal animosity.’

Arsenal players are choosing to employ their relatives as agents. FIFA have washed their hands of attempts to regulate middle-men. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Calum Chambers, Jack Wilshere, Kieran Gibbs and Danny Welbeck are among those to use the policy. Liverpool club secretary Stuart Hayton is leaving Anfield after two seasons.

Celtic have written to the Scottish Football Association in order to gain an 'understanding' of the refereeing decisions during their Scottish Cup semi-final defeat by Inverness on Sunday. The Hoops were left outraged by referee Steven McLean's failure to award a penalty or red card for a clear handball in the box by Josh Meekings to deny Leigh Griffith's goal-bound shot during the first-half. Caley Thistle went on to win the game 3-2 after extra-time and denied Rory Delia's men the chance to secure a domestic Treble this season. Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths has a goal-bound shot blocked by the outstretched arm of Josh Meekings. Celtic's Adam Matthews (right) slides in with a strong challenge on Nick Ross in the Scottish Cup semi-final. 'Given the level of reaction from our supporters and across football, we are duty bound to seek an understanding of what actually happened,' Celtic said in a statement. They added, 'We have not been given any other specific explanation so far and this is simply to understand the circumstances of what went on and why such an obvious error was made.' However, the Parkhead outfit made a point of congratulating their opponents, who have reached the first-ever Scottish Cup final in their history, describing Caley as a 'fantastic club' and saying 'reaching the final is a great achievement.' Celtic had taken the lead in the semi-final through defender Virgil van Dijk's curling free-kick on 18 minutes, but were unable to double that lead thanks to the Meekings controversy. It allowed Inverness a route back into the game and Celtic had goalkeeper Craig Gordon sent off after the restart for scything down Marley Watkins in the area. Greg Tansey duly converted the resulting penalty. Edward Ofere then put Caley Thistle ahead, only for John Guidetti to draw level for the Bhoys. With the game seemingly heading for penalties, David Raven scored the winner on 117 minutes, breaking thousands of Celtic hearts. Celtic captain Scott Brown (left) protests to referee Steven McLean but the handball goes unpunished. Griffiths shows off his acrobatic skills during Celtic's eventual surprise defeat by Inverness. Celtic pair Aleksandar Tonev (left) and John Guidetti look dejected as their hopes of a domestic treble end.

Celtic were defeated 3-2 after extra-time in the Scottish Cup semi-final. Leigh Griffiths had a goal-bound shot blocked by a clear handball. However, no action was taken against offender Josh Meekings. The Hoops have written the SFA for an 'understanding' of the decision.

It was on New Year's Day last year that Juan Mata finally cracked after being substituted by Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho at Southampton. He had done his utmost not to react and, placid by nature, there was no kicking water bottles, but he was visibly distraught despite the consolatory efforts of Michael Essien behind him. Fast forward 16 months and there was an altogether different kind of substitution in the 81st minute of last Sunday's Manchester derby. After scoring and inspiring United to 4-2 win, he received a standing ovation and a pat on the back from Ryan Giggs. Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata turns away to celebrate after scoring against Manchester City. Mata had scored United's third goal during the 4-2 victory over their bitter rivals at Old Trafford last week. Mata looks dejected after being substituted by Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho last year at Stamford Bridge. Although he had been a popular figure at Chelsea, Mata could not convince Mourinho to keep hold of him. Louis van Gaal is finally getting the best out of Juan Mata. In his last five games, the Spaniard has performed better than he ever has in the Premier League:. Mata is performing at the peak of his powers. He is not surprised by the turnaround in his own, and the team's, fortunes — he began the season believing United could win the league this year with no European commitments. He told Sportsmail last May: 'If we take Liverpool as the example there you have a team who have fought all the way to the finish without the Champions League.' He was mocked for the optimism but if United beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge they will be only five points behind the leaders. When David Moyes was manager, he and assistant Phil Neville had scouted Europe for the 'Mata-type player' they believed the team needed before it became clear United could get the real thing. When Louis van Gaal arrived, Mata took one step forward and two back. The early tinkering often meant he played in his favoured position behind the front two, but the three-man defence experiment undermined everything else the team did and results were poor. He ended up back where he had been at Chelsea under Mourinho — on the bench. Mata missed the football he had played earlier in his career at Valencia and under Andre Villas-Boas at Chelsea. The free spirit was being shackled and the only consolation was that others felt the same, none more so than Ander Herrera, the player he is closest to at the club. The two had won an Under 21 European Championship together with Spain where they had enjoyed a freedom of expression now denied them. Herrera, like Mata, was out of the side. Mata also missed London. When I interviewed him in 2012 before the Champions League final he insisted on meeting in a Kings Road cafe because it was where he felt most at home. Now he was in a mansion in Alderley Edge, south Manchester. Isolated and not playing. As United's fortunes changed on the pitch, however, so Mata's season has been saved. With Michael Carrick now planted in front of a back four, the side has the balance to allow its creative players to thrive. Mata is not in his favoured No 10 position but he is also comfortable on the right. 'I can come inside on my left foot and see the whole of the pitch in front of me,' he says. Mata enjoys a close friendship with fellow Untied midfielder and Spain international Ander Herrera (right) Mata scores the second of his two goals against Liverpool at Anfield this season, a stunning overhead kick. It is the same left foot Giggs joked about with him when he joined, saying he was glad to see him arrive but unhappy that he no longer possessed the best left peg at Old Trafford. The relationship with Giggs is healthy, as is the one struck up with Wayne Rooney. Both were players Mata admired before moving to England. As well as the bond with Herrera he is close to David de Gea — all three of them live on the same street. De Gea is another with whom Mata played in that Under 21 European Championship success in Denmark in 2011. Having been part of the 2010 World Cup-winning squad, Mata's willingness to step back down to the Under 21s says a lot about his character. The open letter he wrote to Chelsea fans when he left the club — against advice that it was not the best way to ingratiate himself with his new supporters — also spoke volumes. A Chelsea fan holds a sign to pay tribute to Mata, who earned himself a hero's reputation in west London. Mata never wanted to leave London but now he loves the countryside surrounding Manchester. It reminds him of his home in Asturias, and that more than makes up for not being in the capital. Life there was good under Villas-Boas. 'He trusted me to play and he wants to play attractive, fun and winning football,' he said, revealing a fondness for someone whom Mourinho held in far lower esteem. Mata never banged on the manager's door when he fell out of favour at Chelsea. Mourinho never struck him as a man whose mind could be changed. He has always preferred to do his talking on the pitch. It has not always been easy but he is back at Chelsea on Saturday and there has never been a better time to make a lasting statement. Mata gets ready to play a pass during a club training session at the Aon Training Complex on Friday.

Despite his status as a firm fan-favourite during his first two seasons at Chelsea, Juan Mata could not do enough to impress Jose Mourinho. Mata was sold to Manchester United in January 2014 for a £37m fee. It took some time for the midfielder to settle at Old Trafford but now he has. United travel away to Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.

Nico Rosberg has published a video explaining his row with Lewis Hamilton after the Chinese Grand Prix. Rosberg complained during a heated press conference that his Mercedes team-mate Hamilton, the race winner who was sitting next to him as he spoke, had acted ‘selfishly’ in slowing down to such an extent that he (Rosberg) could have been caught by Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari. Speaking on video more calmly later, Rosberg, who finished second, a place ahead of Vettel, answered questions he had received from fans about the furore. Nico Rosberg responded to a fan who accused Rosberg of 'crying' after he complained about Lewis Hamilton. Lewis Hamilton celebrates his win with the Mercedes team, but Nico Rosberg appears less pleased with 2nd. Hamilton crossed the line to claim his second win of the season and his fourth in China. One asked if he was ‘crying’ – by which the questioner meant moaning or being a poor loser. Rosberg said: ‘You say that I was crying. OK, I respect your opinion, and I’ll keep it in mind and I’ll try to show respect when it’s due going forward.’ Rosberg was a few seconds behind Hamilton when the world champion slowed. So why did he not push on and try to pass his team-mate rather than ask his pit wall engineers to tell Hamilton to speed up so he could move away from Vettel? Hamilton and Rosberg spray champagne from the podium as Mercedes celebrate a one-two finish. Rosberg was clearly angry with Hamilton in the press conference and hit out at his team-mate. ‘I understand why you’re asking that,’ said Rosberg to that question. ‘It might not be so easy to understand from the outside. But the reason is, I did try to attack Lewis in the first stint, and it just didn’t work. All I did was destroy my tyres. ‘So in the second stint there was no point to do that again, because this time there was Vettel right behind and it would’ve really risked my second place if I had tried that, because I would have completely destroyed my tyres, again, and Vettel could have had a really good shot at overtaking me. My only chance of winning the race anyway, or to fight Lewis, or try to overtake him, would have come at the end of the race, so that’s what I was building up to.’ Rosberg made the video – he posts his thoughts following each race – after discussing the incident with his team management before leaving the Shanghai track. The British driver denied he had done anything wrong following Rosberg's accusations. Hamilton backed his corner when it was claimed that he had scuppered his team-mate's race. He added: ‘It was definitely intense after the race, but we had a very good sit down, a good discussion. There was a lot of constructive criticism, and now it’ s a thing of the past for everybody and we’re moving on to Bahrain. ‘The worst part of the weekend was losing out to Lewis in qualifying. That compromised me most. And it was by just four-hundredths. That’s all down to me to be those five-hundredths quicker next time.’ Rosberg has since travelled to Dubai en route to the next race in Bahrain on Sunday. Lewis, many congratulations. Was the race as expected in terms of the challenge from Ferrari and, also, can you talk us through that radio message you got from the team about speeding up? Were you aware that Nico was getting so backed-up towards Sebastian Vettel? LH: I wasn’t controlling his race, I was controlling my own race but, great race, I’m really happy. Definitely going into the race we thought it would be a lot closer and we knew the Ferraris were very, very good with their long run pace and also looking after their tyres. So, today the real goal was to manage the tyres. And, as I said, my goal was to look after my car. I had no real threat from Nico through the whole race. So, I just managed it and got to really enjoy it, to be honest. A few of the real good fun laps were the laps before the pitstop, which I really enjoyed. Ultimately it was a much smoother weekend than we had in the last race where we got the whole, full practice sessions, on my side of the garage at least. And it made a real big difference to the balance of the car for the race. So really happy, and yeah, kinda excited. Q: Nico, can you talk us through your view of the race today. Started second, finished second but you sounded at times as though you felt at times under a little bit of unnecessary pressure maybe? NR: No. It’s just now interesting to hear from you, Lewis, that you were just thinking about yourself with the pace in front, and necessarily that was compromising my race. Driving slower than was maybe necessary at the beginning of stints meant that Sebastian was very close to me and that opened up the opportunity for Sebastian to try that early pit-stop to try and jump me. And then I had to cover him. So, first of all it was unnecessarily close with Sebastian as a result, and also it cost me a lot of race time as a result because I had to cover him and then my tyres died at the end of the race because my stint was just so much longer. So I’m unhappy about that, of course, today. Other than that, not much to say. Q: Lewis, would you like to respond? LH: Not really! My job is not to… it’s not my job to look after Nico’s race. My job’s to manage the car and bring the car home as healthy and as fast as possible – and that’s what I did. I didn’t do anything intentionally to slow any of the cars up. I just was focussing on myself. If Nico wanted to get by he could have tried but he didn’t.

Lewis Hamilton won the Chinese Grand Prix with Nico Rosberg second. After the race Rosberg accused Hamilton of being selfish by slowing down. He said Hamilton's speed allowed Sebastian Vettel to close the gap in third. Rosberg explained he did not try to attack Hamilton for fear of tyre wear. CLICK HERE for all the latest F1 news.

He played in 64 Tests as a leg-spinning all-rounder and captained Australia to world dominance in the 1950s but to millions of fans Richie Benaud, who died last night aged 84, was the voice of cricket. The great commentator, who had been receiving treatment for skin cancer since November, began broadcasting for the BBC while still a player in 1963 and carried on until a car crash forced him out of the commentary box in 2013. It was hoped he would still be able to commentate on the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand earlier this year but ill-health sadly ended hopes of one last masterclass. Richie Benaud was one of cricket's great personalities and will be remembered for his dry wit and knowledge. Benaud was the voice of cricket for generations, commentating in his native Australia and for the BBC. Benaud, pictured on his wedding day to wife Daphne, and during his time as Australia captain. Benaud, quite simply, was the voice of summer, both in his native land and in England, as much for what he did not say as what he did. Always understated, Benaud knew when to let the pictures do the talking before entering our living rooms with just the right words. He took 248 Test wickets and hit 2,201 runs, with three centuries, and reclaimed the Ashes for Australia as captain before successfully defending them twice. His commentary rules should be required reading for anyone entering the commentary box today. They included these: never ask a statement; there are no teams in the world called we or they; avoid cliches and banalities; remember that the Titanic was a tragedy and the Ethiopian drought a disaster and neither bears any relation to a dropped catch and, most importantly, don’t take yourself too seriously and have some fun. WATCH SHANE WARNE'S BALL OF THE CENTURY WITH RICHIE BENAUD'S CLASSIC UNDERSTATED COMMENTARY. BENAUD SLAMS AUSTRALIANS FOR BOWLING UNDERARM TO PREVENT NEW ZEALAND FROM SCORING FROM FINAL BALL OF 1981 MATCH. Benaud was a daring captain and became the first cricketer to score 2,000 runs and take 200 wickets in Tests. David Gower, Geoffrey Boycott and Benaud assembled a formidable line-up for the BBC in 1995. A master with the microphone to his lips, Benaud also was well aware of the power of silence. January 1952: Test debut against West Indies at Sydney Cricket Ground. January 1952: First of 248 Test wickets and 2,201 Test runs. December 1958: First Test as Australia captain, v England at Brisbane. Summer 1960: First radio commentary for BBC. December 1963: In his 60th Test, the first to 2,000 Test runs & 200 wickets. Summer 1963: First television commentary for BBC. February 1964: Final Test against South Africa at Sydney Cricket Ground. September 2005: Final commentary in England after 42 years. In becoming one of the leading figures of Kerry Packer’s World Series revolution in the 1970s Benaud gave the fledgling breakaway group the voice of authority they required. Yet any suggestion of his being anti-establishment has long since been forgotten and the leading figures in Australian cricket and life queued up to pay tribute to arguably the most famous Aussie of them all last night. ‘There would hardly be an Australian over the last 40 years who hasn’t listened to Richie Benaud,’ said Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, and that could also apply to English men and women. ‘He certainly will be very, very much missed.’ Today Abbott offered Benaud's family a state funeral for him, if they wish it. Cricket Australia chairman Wally Edwards said: ‘Our country has lost a national treasure. After Don Bradman, there has been no Australian player more famous or more influential than Richie Benaud.’ Benaud never lost the ability to say absolutely the right thing and that was never more in evidence than in what will go down as his last significant public words. An evocative 30 second tribute to the late Phillip Hughes was prepared for Channel Nine by Benaud when, as ever, he captured the mood perfectly. Benaud (front left) leads Australia off at Old Trafford in 1961 as England collapsed against his side's spin. Benaud, pictured in 2006 during the launch of his book My Take on Cricket, was widely respected and loved. Benaud pays tribute to Australian media mogul and cricket pioneer Kerry Packer after his death in 2005. 'A boy just beginning, 25 years of age, baggy green number 408,' read Benaud in what were still his unmistakable tones when the cricket world had to endure what really was a tragedy with the death of a young player at the SCG. 'His father's best mate, son, brother, fighter, friend, inspiration. Phillip Hughes, forever rest in peace son.' The whole cricketing world will be echoing those sentiments for the greatest commentator of them all. Richie Benaud, who was made an OBE in 1961 for services to cricket, left a wife of 48 years in Daphne and two children from his first marriage. He will forever set the standards for others to follow. Tributes are seen at the statue of Benaud at the Sydney Cricket Ground after his passing aged 84. ON COMMENTATING. 'What I want most from being a television commentator is to be able to feel that, when I say something, I am talking to friends.' 'My mantra is: put your brain into gear and if you can add to what's on the screen then do it, otherwise shut up.' 'The key thing was to learn the value of economy with words and to never insult the viewer by telling them what they can already see.' 'Out in the field, you haven't got anyone whispering into your ear saying all sorts of things, you've got to do it yourself.' ON CAPTAINCY. 'The hallmark of a great captain is the ability to win the toss, at the right time.' 'Captaincy is 90 per cent luck and 10 per cent skill. But don't try it without that 10 per cent.' ON BATTING. 'Bruce Reid is not the worst batsman there is at international level but those who are worse would not need to hire the Myer Music Bowl to hold a convention.' 'Glenn McGrath dismissed for two, just ninety-eight runs short of his century.' 'He's not quite got hold of that one. If he had, it would have gone for nine.' ON BOWLING. 'A bleeding ring finger at the end of every training session was not only normal but essential for my development as a wrist spinner.' 'Your wrist must be cocked, but not stiffly cocked.' 'You must always look where you want to land it. If I offered you 10,000 dollars to hit a tin can, you'd never take your eyes off it.' ON TWENTY20 CRICKET. 'If any form of game can pull 20,000 spectators into a game of cricket it's great for the sport. I think it's wonderful.' 'As long as the people who run the game have brains and keep three forms of the game I think it will be terrific.' ON SHANE WARNE'S 'BALL OF THE CENTURY. 'Gatting has absolutely no idea what has happened to it. Still doesn't know.' ON 1981's 'UNDERARM BOWLING' SCANDAL. 'A disgraceful performance from a captain who got his sums wrong. It should never be permitted to happen again. One of the worst things I have ever seen done on a cricket field.' MISCELLANEOUS. 'The slow-motion replay doesn't show how fast the ball was really travelling.' 'A cricket ground is a flat piece of earth with some buildings around it.' 'He's usually a good puller - but he couldn't get it up that time.' 'Cricket has changed for the better ... it's because of what happened then, cricket is so strong now.'

Benaud died in his sleep in Sydney after a short battle with skin cancer. He made his debut for Australia aged just 18 and played in 63 Tests. Was the first cricketer to take 200 wickets and make 2,000 runs in Tests. Under his daring captaincy, Australia dominated cricket in the late 1950s. Began commentating before he retired from playing, with his face and voice becoming synonymous with cricket the world over. Iconic figure's love of the game, dry wit and understanding of knowing when not to speak gave him a unique voice. His family have been offered a state funeral by Australian Prime Minister. CLICK HERE for Benaud tributes as the cricket world mourns his death.

England World Cup hopeful Elliot Daly has been named the Aviva Premiership’s player of the month for March. The uncapped Wasps centre, 22, scored two tries in March as the Coventry-based club maintained on course for a Champions Cup spot next season. Equally comfortable at full back, Daly's form at centre has him pushing incumbent England No 13 Jonathan Joseph hard for his place. Elliot Daly is handed his player of the month award by Wasps director of rugby Dai Young. He looks certain to be included in Stuart Lancaster's England's World Cup training squad named next month. Wasps director of rugby Dai Young said: 'If England are going to go out and win the Rugby World Cup, he’s the type of player you’ve got to have in the team so I’d certainly like to think he’s pushing for a place in the squad.' BT Sport analyst Austin Healey added: 'For a good couple of years now us rugby watchers have known of the potential of Elliot Daly. Daly is mobbed by his team-mates after scoring a try against Saracens at the Ricoh Arena. 'Over the last few months we have seen him realise it and perhaps with plenty still to come.' A talented sportsman educated at Whitgift School in Croydon - who also produced England internationals Danny Cipriani and Marland Yarde - Daly was offered a contract with Surrey Cricket before opting for a career in rugby. He has appeared four times for England Saxons. The Wasps centre looks set to be called into England's training squad for the World Cup.

Elliot Daly was in fine form at outside centre for Wasps in March. Daly, 22, has not yet been capped by England. Wasps head coach Dai Young says England must pick him for World Cup.

A 12-year-old schoolboy needed to be rescued after falling down an eight-foot drain which had been left uncovered. Firefighters worked with police and ambulance staff to free the boy, a pupil at Stanground Academy, whose leg was trapped for more than half an hour down the hole. It is believed the rubber drain cover had been kicked out of position in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire on Monday afternoon - and within hours, the accident occurred. A 12-year-old schoolboy needed to be rescued after falling down an eight-foot drain in Peterborough. Firefighters, police and ambulance crews worked to free the boy, who was trapped for more than half an hour. Nadine Jones, who called for help after seeing the boy who was unable to free his leg, said: 'A child fell into the drain and became stuck. 'The drain cover was a loose, plastic temporary one, rather than a metal one, as works had been taking place. 'You could not see the top of his head. I think the drain was about eight feet deep.' An East of England Ambulance service spokesman said: 'An ambulance and a rapid response vehicle attended and treated the boy, whose leg was trapped in a drain. 'He was discharged from scene and was not taken to hospital.' It is believed the temporary plastic drain cover had been kicked out of position on Monday afternoon. A Cambridgeshire police spokesman said: 'We were called at 3.57pm to an incident in Peterborough as a child had fallen down a manhole. 'Two fire crews and an ambulance were also on scene. 'It is reported the drain cover was rubber, and had been kicked out of position.' Cambridgeshire Police said two fire crews and an ambulance were on the scene to help free the boy.

Boy fell down hole in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, and trapped his leg. Rescue crews worked to free the boy, who remained stuck for half an hour. Loose plastic drain cover thought to have been kicked out of position. Do you know the boy? Email khaleda.rahman@mailonline.co.uk.

Lucky fans in the French city of Saint-Etienne were given a treat on Monday night as Brazilian Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane took part in the 12th annual Match Against Poverty. Footballing legends Ronaldo and Zidane were joined by a host of former greats including Clarence Seedorf, Fabian Barthez, Jay-Jay Okocha and Gianluca Zambrotta to name a few. Brazilian ace Ronaldo had been rumoured to come out of retirement with American side Fort Lauderdale in recent times and the 38-year-old showed he still has what it takes with a hat trick. Former French international Zinedine Zidane shows he's still got it as he vies for the ball with Torpe Svarme. Brazilian legend Ronaldo takes a touch as he looks to set up an attack in the Match Against Poverty. Two of football's biggest legends meet as Ronaldo and Zidane share a high five at Geoffroy Guichard Stadium. The former Inter Milan and Real Madrid frontman celebrates after finding the back of the net. Former Nigerian international Jay-Jay Okocha curls an effort into the net during the Match Against Poverty. Former Madrid and France ace Zidane looks to take on Bjorn Kvarne during the Match Against Poverty. Like many charity friendly matches defending was at a premium, but goals were certainly not as the match at the Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium reached double figures. One of the goals of the game came from the super cool Seedorf who earned his name on the score sheet with a sublime chip. Former French international David Trezeguet also played and scored in the match, but it was Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who shone the brightest as he grabbed a hat-trick during his side’s 9-7 defeat. Ronaldo and Zidane share a joke with former Liverpool ace Vladimir Smicer watching on. Former AC Milan star Clarence Seedorf in action during the clash at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on Tuesday. David Trezeguet got himself among the goals as he fired in an effort in the South of France. David Trezeguet is congratulated by Karel Poborsky (right) after scoring the opening goal. Teams line up prior to the UEFA Match Against Poverty at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Etienne.

A host of footballing legends graced the field to raise money for charity. Bazilian Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane were among the stars taking part. Clarence Seedorf, Fabian Barthez and Gianluca Zambrotta also played. As did Jay-Jay Okocha, David Trezeguet and Vladimir Smicer.

She has already taken the modelling world by storm, being snapped up to front campaigns for The Upside, Myer, Berlei and ASOS, to name a few. And now like Megan Gale, Jennifer Hawkins and Elle Macpherson before her, plus-size queen Laura Wells has turned her hand to designing. The brunette bombshell has launched a new swimwear line with a twist - the eco-friendly collection is made entirely of 100 per cent recycled material. Scroll down for video. Curves to coral: Model and environmental scientist Laura Wells uses figure to flaunt ocean inspired swimwear. Sizzling: The Australian beauty smoulders in the campaign. The environmental scientist turned model designed the line in collaboration with US brand Swimsuits For All's trend range, SwimSexy. The collection is inspired by the ocean, with coral reef scenes featuring throughout. The line includes one and two-piece suits, with zippers, criss-cross straps, plunging V-necklines and high-waisted bottoms. The swimsuits cater for every shape, with sizes ranging from 10 through to 24. Environmentally-friendly: The swimsuits are made form 100 per cent recycled materials. Cut well: The swimwear features plunging v-necks, criss-cross straps and flattering cuts for all shapes. Wells revealed that the idea for the collaboration came about through a conversation she had with the brand while she was working with them on a photoshoot. 'I can’t think of anyone else making eco-friendly, fashion-forward suits for curvy girls,' Laura told US website Refinery 29. Laura smoulders in the campaign shots for the collection, lounging on a hammock in a clear blue ocean wearing the coral reef one-piece, which she said was her favourite from the collaboration. Reef range: The swimsuits feature coral reef inspired designs, reflecting model's Australian background. She said the primary challenge was finding environmentally-friendly material while keeping prices affordable. 'Recycled fabrics can be very expensive and it was important for us to keep the price point affordable,' she said. 'Also, swim fabrics need to be able to withstand a lot - sun, chlorine, saltwater - so the research and development process took a while.'

Australian plus size model Laura Wells releases eco-friendly swimwear. The swim range goes up to size 24 and is 100 per cent recyclable material. The prints Australian ocean inspired designs and coral reef colours. The swimwear is a collaboration with US brand Swim Sexy.

Ronnie O’Sullivan took off his shoes mid-match at the Crucible on Tuesday — but still socked it to debutant Craig Steadman. The Rocket raced into a 7-2 lead in his first match at this year’s Betfred World Championship in Sheffield. But five-time champion O’Sullivan, 39, could now face a fine after breaching snooker’s strict dress code against the 32-year-old from Manchester. Ronnie O'Sullivan was forced into borrowing a pair of shoes from a member of the Crucible audience. O'Sullivan played a frame of his encounter against fellow Englishman Craig Steadman in his socks. O'Sullivan leans across the table as he lines up a shot during the first round of the World Championship. O’Sullivan almost made a 147 maximum break in the first frame — missing the 14th red on a run of 104. But he played the sixth frame in his socks after removing some new shoes, complaining about a painful big toe. O’Sullivan saw his lead pegged back to 4-2 after losing that frame — and tried to hand his footwear to a fan. He also asked: ‘Does anyone in here have some size eight or nine shoes I can borrow. I’m serious?’ But tournament director Mike Ganley summoned him out of the arena and lent him his own shoes for the last three frames of the session. The WPBSA dress code reads: ‘Each member shall ensure that their dress and appearance is smart and appropriate for a professional player.’ O’Sullivan was given dispensation to wear casual shoes last year at the UK Championship after breaking his ankle. O'Sullivan claimed he was in discomfort during the match due to an injury he sustained in November. The five-time world champion talks with referee Brendan Moore after borrowing a pair of shoes. O'Sullivan (left) holds an overnight 7-2 first-round lead against Craig Steadman (right) World Championship (5): 2001, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2013. Masters (5): 1995, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2014. UK Championship (5): 1994, 1998, 2002, 2008, 2015. World Snooker chairman Barry Hearn said: ‘The one thing you can be sure of with Ronnie O’Sullivan is that you have absolutely no idea what he is going to do next. ‘I would rather he played with his shoes on if it all possible though. And what happens if his trousers are a bit tight in the next session of his match?’ Meanwhile, Ding Junhui blew the chance to win £30,000 and become only the seventh player to make a maximum at the Crucible. He incredibly played for the blue after the 13th red following 12 blacks and only gasps from the crowd alerted him to the blunder. Ding looked stunned before a doomed long-distance attempt on the black failed. However, he shrugged off the setback to claim a 10-7 victory. Ding, who now plays John Higgins in the second round, said: ‘I was concentrating so hard I forgot. I had been 4-0 behind and doing everything to get back into the match, and already thinking about trying to win the next frame. ‘I only realised what I had done after playing for the blue because the crowd reacted. Then I checked the scoreboard. Hopfully one day I will get another chance to make a 147 at the Crucible, but it was a bit embarrassing.’ Ali Carter, a two-time Crucible finalist, looked in good touch in his first match at the venue since being given the all-clear from lung cancer. O'Sullivan took to Twitter to post a picture of his inflamed left ankle back in November 2014. Following a 10-5 win over Alan McManus to set up a clash with Neil Robertson, he said: ‘This is where I feel comfortable and most enjoy playing. I have done everything here except win it and that’s what I am here to do. I didn’t want to come here, get some applause, play like an idiot and go home.’ Mark Allen won an incredible nine frames in a row from 3-1 down to blow away Ryan Day 10-3. The 29-year-old from Northern Ireland, who now plays Barry Hawkins, said: ‘That doesn’t happen very often at this level. But that was my C game. Ryan gave the chances rather than me earning them. I will need to play a lot better to be in the mix for the title.’

Ronnie O'Sullivan had to borrow pair of shoes from audience member. The 39-year-old played one frame in socks due to ankle discomfort. O'Sullivan was breaking snooker etiquette in failing to wear smart shoes. READ: Ding Junhui misses out on maximum break (and £30,000)

Chelsea were forced to substitute Oscar during the derby against Arsenal after their creative midfielder suffered 'possible concussion' in the first half. The Brazilian collided with an onrushing David Ospina in the 16th minute at the Emirates Stadium and was sent to hospital at half time for checks. It looked as if the Arsenal goalkeeper had given away a penalty, but referee Michael Oliver waved away Chelsea's protestation following the painful clash. Oscar was clattered into by Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina during Sunday's London derby. Sky Sports revealed that Jose Mourinho said the Brazilian was taken off due to 'possible concussion' Oscar was knocked back by the goalkeeper but Michael Oliver didn't award Chelsea a penalty. Didier Drogba replaced Oscar at the break, with Sky Sports revealing that Jose Mourinho had told them the decision was taken because of concussion concerns over the latter. It means Oscar played on for half an hour before being properly assessed, potentially bringing the concussion debate into the public domain again. 'He went to the hospital at halftime,' Mourinho said. 'We are waiting. We don't know yet (if it's concussion).' Television pundits Jamie Carragher, Graeme Souness and Thierry Henry were all in agreement that it should have been a penalty. Carragher said: 'It was a definitely penalty. It could even be a red card.’ Henry said: 'The adrenalin will sometimes bring you back to the field. Maybe he thought he could not go back on after sitting in the dressing room for 15 minutes.’ Oscar appeared in a bad way immediately after being poleaxed by the Gunners' goalkeeper. He attempted to get up but his arms fell back down to the turf in direct response to the hit. The collision was in the 16th minute but Oscar still manage to play on until half-time.

Chelsea weren't awarded a penalty for David Ospina's clash with Oscar. Arsenal goalkeeper clattered Oscar inside the box. Brazilian was taken off at half-time, with Didier Drogba replacing him.

This gruesome video shows how a man popped a huge cyst in his arm with a needle, screwdriver and a pair of pliers. The man, known only as Jason, from Vancouver, uploaded the clip to YouTube after his wife filmed the stomach-churning moment. It begins with him explaining exactly how he will pop the grape-sized growth on his wrist. He says: 'We have the pliers, they're going to hold onto the needle which will then be smashed into my cyst with the end of a screwdriver. 'It should be pretty cool.' The man, known only as Jason, uploaded the video to YouTube of his unique way of popping a cyst - using a needle, a pair of pliers and a screwdriver. Pictured is his sister in law putting the needle into the swelling. As Jason's sister in law hammers the needle deeper into the cyst with the handle of a screwdriver, he emits loud cries of pain. First, he lays his left arm down on some kitchen roll on a table so the lump is easily accessible. His sister-in-law then inserts the needle into the cyst and holds it in place with a pair of pliers as he winces. She then begins the horrifying process of hammering the needle deeper into the growth. Sharp cries of pain are heard from Jason with each hit. Astonishingly, though the process seems too agonising to bear, Jason says: 'I think we can go a little deeper'. After one last hammer – which was once again met with a loud moan – he says: 'It's in there pretty good. Now we've got to pull it out. Dr Arun Ghosh, a private GP in Liverpool, condemned Jason's method of popping his cyst with a needle, pliers and a screwdriver. He told MailOnline: 'We advise not draining minor ganglions. 'They just get bigger and bigger. We only drain it if they are very large and hindering the use of the hand. 'It’s wrong to pop a ganglion with a needle and a screwdriver on so many levels. Traditionally, ganglions would be 'bashed with the family bible', but doctors do not advise this. 'From a hygiene point of view you’ve got to sterilise your equipment. We would never insert a needle that would be used in the house. They are covered in millions of bacteria. 'You can never control the force by using a screwdriver, and that’s dangerous. 'There are very fine arteries and nerves in the hand, and they’re so easy to damage. 'If they are damaged you get irreversible pain. If you think how often you use your hand that can be debilitating. 'There used to be a myth that you should bash a ganglion with a family bible to burst it. 'That’s caused problems with the fluid going into the wrist joint, causing carpel tunnel syndrome: swelling inside the wrist. 'If we did treat it, we’d do a needle aspiration, which means sucking out the glue-like pus. 'But that would be what is known as "aseptic", meaning the pus would be drawn out into the syringe and would never touch the wound, to prevent infection. 'We would also do it under ultrasound so as not to damage the fine veins and arteries in the hand. 'If you have a ganglion or a swelling you must go to your GP and they will advise whether its OK or whether it’s best to be left alone. 'Then it will be followed up and receive proper after care.' 'I'm going to see if we can get the fluid squirting out if it does.' Moments later, he takes the needle out and asks the camera to zoom in on his arm. As he squeezes the cyst, sticky, translucent jelly comes rushing out and gathers in a pea-sized ball. 'Let's see what the consistency looks like,' he said as he rubs the gluey substance between two fingers. He adds: 'This is probably the grossest thing I've ever seen – since the last time I've done this. 'This will probably do the trick for three or so months until I have to pop it again.' Uploading the video to YouTube under the name 'The Wrist Cyst', he promises to upload another video in another three months time when he pops the cyst again. Unsurprisingly, medical professionals do not advise using Jason's method to treat lumps found on the body. Dr Arun Ghosh, a private GP in Liverpool, explains that Jason's cyst is a ganglion, a fluid-filled swelling that develops near a joint or a tendon. They are made up of a thick jelly-like fluid called synovial fluid, which surrounds joints and tendons to lubricate them during movement - and occur when this fluid leaks out and collects under the skin. Ganglions can occur alongside any joint in the body, but are most commonly found on the wrist, hand and fingers. Generally harmless, if they do not cause any pain, they can be left alone and will disappear without any treatment. Dr Ghosh said: 'We advise not draining minor ganglions. They just get bigger and bigger. We only drain it if they are very large and hindering the use of the hand. 'A ganglion is a fluid-filled sack. If you start the drainage process, the bigger and bigger the sack will fill. 'This is the issue this gentleman has caused, he’ll need to drain it more often.' Traditionally, ganglions were treated by being 'bashed with the family Bible', but this is no longer recommended, as this could cause the fluid to disperse and cause carpel tunnel syndrome - a swelling in the wrist - he added. Dr Ghosh added Jason's method was also not advisable either. He told MailOnline: 'It’s wrong to pop a ganglion with a needle and a screwdriver on so many levels. It’s unhygienic, you can’t control the force and you could damage the nerves in the hand. 'From a hygiene point of view you’ve got to sterilise your equipment. We would never insert a needle that would be used in the house. They are covered in millions of bacteria. 'You can never control the force by using a screwdriver, and that’s dangerous. 'There are very fine arteries and nerves in the hand, and they’re so easy to damage. If they are damaged you get irreversible pain. If you think how often you use your hand that can be debilitating.' He removes the needle and squeezes the cyst, and a ball of sticky, see-through jelly-like fluid emerges. Jason rubs his fingers together to show the sticky consistency of the fluid that comes out of the growth, which doctors explain is synovial fluid, which surrounds joints and tendons to lubricate them. At the end of the video, Jason says the cyst will need draining again in three months. But doctors strongly advise against his method - and say ganglions do not normally require treatment. If the cyst needs treatment, the fluid should be drained out with a needle and syringe by a doctor, or cut out in a surgical procedure. Dr Ghosh added: 'If we did treat it, we’d do a needle aspiration, which means sucking out the glue-like pus. 'But that would be what is known as "aseptic", meaning the pus would be drawn out into the syringe and would never touch the wound, to prevent infection. 'We would also do it under ultrasound so as not to damage the fine veins and arteries in the hand. 'If you have a ganglion or a swelling you must go to your GP and they will advise whether its OK or whether it’s best to be left alone. 'Then it will be followed up and receive proper after care.'

The man, known only as Jason, is filmed popping the ganglion on his wrist. Involves hammering a needle into his arm with the handle of a screwdriver. A sticky ball of see-through jelly emerges from the cyst afterwards. Doctors do not advise popping ganglions as more fluid returns in future.

David Beckham is used to having his children in the crowd at sporting events but he was relegated to the role of spectator as son Romeo, 12, ran the London mini-marathon. Beckham, wife Victoria and their two other sons Brooklyn and Cruz were there to cheer on Romeo as he completed the race, raising £6,000 for charity. It is the same three mile course where Mo Farah and triathlon champions Alistair and Jonny Brownlee kick started their careers. Romeo wore race number 1081 and represented the Kensington and Chelsea region. His family, who were all sporting matching t-shirts with ‘Team Romeo’ emblazoned on them, posed for pictures with him at the finish near Buckingham Palace. The Beckham family pictured at the finish line after Romeo completed the three-mile mini-marathon. Romeo poses with older brother Brooklyn after finishing the London mini-marathon on Sunday. Proud father David meets Romeo at the finish line with the rest of his family. The Beckham children have clearly inherited their father’s sporty genes, 15-year old Brooklyn has played for Arsenal’s academy sides, as has Romeo and 10-year-old Cruz is also a budding footballer. Beckham cried for the final ten minutes of his professional football career – blubbing his way through the end of a Paris St Germain game. So he might have sympathised with Paula Radcliffe who also cried as she bowed out of competitive running, registering a time of 2:36.55. In the women’s elite field, the attention pre-race had centred on four Kenyan women but Tigist Tufa broke away from the pack to become only the third Ethiopian woman to win the London marathon, after Derata Tulu in 2001 and Aselefech Mergia in 2010. Tufa, who the bookmakers judged a 25/1 shot before the race, crossed the line in 2:23.22 with two-time winner Mary Keitany 18 seconds behind. Ethiopia’s tirfi Tsegaye was third in 2:23.41. Kenyan Eliud Kipchoge, a World Champion over 5,000m, triumphed in 2:04.42, five seconds ahead of his compatriot Wilson Kipsang in the men’s race. Paula Radcliffe breaks down at the end of the London Marathon on Sunday, her final career race. The world record holder for 12 years, Radcliffe said the time was irrelevant in her final London Marathon.

David Beckham was a spectator as Romeo competed in mini-marathon. Beckham was joined by wife Victoria and sons Brooklyn and Cruz. Family congratulated Romeo, 12, at the finish line of three-mile course.

With the new Avengers: Age of Ultron movie released this week, James Haskell showed off his inner Iron Man in a serious-looking Instagram post. The highly-anticipated movie premiered at Westfield London shopping centre on Tuesday evening with fans queuing up to see the A-list cast which includes Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth and Scarlett Johansson. And the London Wasps captain joined in on the hype as he posted the photo dressed as Downey Jr.'s character Iron Man. England flanker James Haskell dressed in Iron Man costume and posted it on his Instagram page. The London Wasps captain (middle) returned to the club where he started his career for the 2012 season. Haskell posted the image on Thursday along with the message: 'Avengers movie is out so thought i would release the inner Iron Man. @UnderArmourUK #TransformYourself #IWILL #AvengersAgeOfUltron.' The flanker returned to Wasps for the 2012 season after spells with Stade Francais, Ricoh Black Rams and Highlanders in New Zealand. Windsor-born Haskell first joined Wasps in 2002, playing eight seasons for the club and winning his first England cap five years later. But in 2009, he moved to Stade Francais in France and spent two seasons in the French capital before he made the move to Tokyo with the Ricoh Black Rams following the unsuccessful 2011 World Cup. Four months in Japan with the Rams and Haskell was on the move again when he switched to New Zealand to join the Highlanders. However, he made only 12 appearances and returned to England in 2012. Since returning to Wasps, Haskell has surpassed the 100 appearances mark for the club and has become a big part of the England squad with 57 caps to-date. Haskell has played his rugby in France, Japan and New Zealand after leaving the Wasps in 2009. Since his return to England, Haskell has enjoyed his rugby and surpassed the 100 appearance mark for Wasps.

James Haskell dresses in Iron Man costume and posts it on Instagram. The Avengers: Age of Ultron move hit the screens in England this week. Haskell returned to London Wasps for the 2012 season and is captain.

Javier Hernandez made it six goals in eight starts as Real Madrid kept up their pursuit of Barcelona at the top of La Liga with a 4-2 win over Celta Vigo. Chicharito is currently scoring a goal every 83 minutes with a scoring ratio that is only two minutes short of Leo Messi who nets once every 81 minutes. The Manchester United loanee put his team in the Champions League semi-finals in midweek with the winner against Atletico Madrid and in Baliados on Sunday night he scored twice to keep Real in the title race. And if his goal at the Bernabeu was a tired shot with the goal gaping in the dying minutes, his strikes against Celta Vigo were of the highest quality and will only serve to ramp up the auction for his services at the end of the season – who knows if his goals bring trophies to the Santiago Bernabeu, Real might even be in the race to sign him permanently. Javier Hernandez scored two more important goals for Real Madrid as they look to keep up with Barcelona in the quest for the La Liga crown. Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos (right) celebrates his equalising goal against Celta Vigo with with team-mate James Rodriguez (right) It's been a week to remember for the Mexican, who currently has a scoring ratio that is only two minutes short of Barcelona's Lionel Messi. The 26-year-old slots the ball through the legs of the onrushing Celta Vigo goalkeeper Sergio Alvarez. Hernandez (No 14) now has six goals in eight starts for Real Madrid and has impressed in the absence of regular striker Karim Benzema. Manchester United loanee Hernandez salutes the fans after scoring Real's second and putting his side ahead for the first time at Balaidos. Colombian international midfielder James Rodriguez celebrates his strike and the visitors third goal with Hernandez (left) The Real Madrid players surround striker Hernandez (No 14) after his first goal brought Carlo Ancelotti's men back into the lead. The game was the perfect tonic for anyone who had sat through Arsenal v Chelsea earlier on Sunday. Both sides flew forward from the off and their ambition was rewarded though for Real Madrid the reward was ultimately far greater. They fell behind after nine minutes when former Barcelona player Nolito took advantage of poor Real Madrid defending. Sergio Ramos lost his boot and was reduced to running back towards goal with it in his hand. And without him Rafael Varane, Alvaro Carvajal and Asier Illaramendi all failed to stop Nolito as he tricked his way in from the left-hand channel and shot past Iker Casillas. Real Madrid responded on the quarter-hour when Cristiano Ronaldo crossed from the right. The ball was cleared straight to Toni Kroos who picked his spot well to fire Madrid level with his second goal of the season. On 24 minutes Real were ahead and it was man of the moment in the Spanish capital Hernandez who got the goal. Rodriguez was involed in the build-up but he still had plenty to do when he received the ball cutting in from the right to shoot past Sergio Alvarez. Celta Vigo, hoping to do their former coach Luis Enrique a big favour, did not retreat and they were level on the half hour when 19-year-old Santi Mina raced away from Madrid’s defence on to a pass from Fabian Orellana. The teenager scored from the rebound after his first shot came back off the post. Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos loses his boot as he chases back during the build up to Nolito's opener for Celta Vigo. Double goal scorer on the night Hernandez (right) tries to round a diving Celta goalkeeper Sergio Alvarez (left) Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo (left) fights for the ball against Celta's Augusto Fernandez but was unable to add to his impressive tally. The game was chaotic in every sense and Sergio Ramos and Joaquin Larrivey both needed lengthy treatment after a clash of heads. Ronaldo was linking well with James Rodriguez and Hernandez and almost put Real ahead but saw his shot come back off the post after another fine pass from Chicharito. When the goal that put Real Madrid ahead did come it was again made by Ronaldo. He played in James Rodriguez and his deflected shot beat Alvarez to leave Celta Vigo going down the tunnel at half time stunned to have played so well in attack and yet still find themselves behind. Their front three of ex-Barça B forward Nolito, journeyman centre-forward Larrivey and teenage prospect Mina, aided by Orellana, had run Real’s back four ragged and they kept the pressure up in the second half. It was Orellana who wend down under a challenge from behind from Kroos at the start of the second half but the referee was unmoved by the home side’s appeals. Isco went close for Real Madrid and then Ronaldo raced away on another counter-attack, which ended with a pass to Hernandez, he tried to hit the shot first time and, falling as he made contact, blasted it high and wide. He would get another chance however and this time he would take it. Celta were playing football that made a mockery of the financial gulf between the two sides. Their wage bill is €12m compared with the €17m Real pay Ronaldo but they were inevitable leaving themselves wide open on the counter and they were also tiring badly. It was perhaps the fatigue that meant they allowed Sergio Ramos to bring the ball out from the back without a Celta player anywhere near him. Ramos picked out Hernandez with a long pass forward and he controlled it with his first touch before slotting past Alvarez with an emphatic second. A week ago he was a frustrated squad player. Now with the season approaching its climax he looks like one of Real Madrid's most important players.

Javier Hernandez scored twice to keep Real Madrid in touching distance of La Liga leaders Barcelona. Chicharito is scoring a goal every 83 minutes with a scoring ratio that is only two minutes short of Lionel Messi. Real went a goal down in the opening minutes following a surprise goal from Celta Vigo's Nolito. Toni Kroos equalised for the visitors and Hernandez doubled Real's scoring with a goal in the 24th minute. Although the home side levelled four minutes later the tie was put to bed after goals from James Rodriguez and another from Hernandez.

Barcelona are fighting for a league and cup double this season but midfield playmaker Ivan Rakitic enjoyed some time away from the heat of battle with his family to celebrate St George's day. Rakitic shared a picture with his 425,000 Instagram followers of him with his wife and daughter with the caption 'Happy St George's Day, I will enjoy with my princesses.' Rakitic's wife, Raquel Mauri, also posted an image of her celebrations with Barcelona star Rakitic. Ivan Rakitic poses alongside his wife Raquel Mauri as the pair enjoy the St George's day celebrations. Barcelona man Rakitic also shared a picture with his wife and daughter, who he described as his 'princesses' Rakitic (left) has been an integral part of Barcelona's team since signing from Sevilla. Rakitic played the full 90 minutes as Barcelona sealed progress to the semi-final of the Champions League with a 5-1 aggregate victory over Paris Saint-Germain thanks to a 2-0 win on Tuesday. The Croatia midfielder has been instrumental for Luis Enrique's La Liga-leading side since signing from rivals Sevilla in June. Barcelona have a two-point lead over Real Madrid in the Spanish league with six games remaining. They also await Friday's Champions League semi-final draw, where they could face Madrid, Juventus or Bayern Munich.

Ivan Rakitic celebrated St George's Day with his wife and daughter. The Barcelona midfielder played the whole game in Tuesday's PSG win. Barcelona lead La Liga by two points and are in Champions League semis. CLICK HERE for Sportsmail's lowdown on the Champions League final four. Who will win the Champions League? Our reporters have their say...

Watford dramatically clinched promotion to the Premier League on Saturday on a typically manic afternoon in the Championship - and insist they're well-equipped to stay in the top flight. Slavisa Jokanovic's men beat Brighton 2-0 at the Amex Stadium in the early kick-off and were hoping that Middlesbrough lost plus Norwich failing to win. Both those results came in during a sensational final five minutes, with Fulham beating Aitor Karanka's Boro 4-3 in stoppage time after Rotherham had equalised against Norwich moments before. Watford have secured promotion back to the Premier League after their 2-0 win away at Brighton. As results from the other games come through, players celebrate wildly on the team-bus. Players can be seen screaming, shouting and singing as Middlesbrough and Norwich both dropped points. Watford will now return to the Premier League for the first time since the 2006-07 campaign. Defender Tommie Hoban has called the club's promotion an 'unbelievable achievement' Watford had won at Brighton and were travelling back home on the team coach when news filtered through on that they had won promotion three hours afterwards. Players and staff erupted on the bus when Ross McCormack scored a 94th-minute winner for Fulham at Craven Cottage. The squad uploaded numerous videos on the internet in the immediate aftermath, with Tommie Hoban labelling it an 'unbelievable achievement'. 'For Middlesbrough to lose like this - it's a magical division. There is no other league like it,' Hoban said. 'Luckily we'd just got into the training ground as Rotherham scored. It is the best day ever, it hasn't sunk in yet. 'I think we can definitely stay up - we have a stronger squad than a few of those teams in the Premier League and will add in the summer.' Watford forward Troy Deeney celebrates after scoring the opening goal against Brighton on Saturday. Twenty-goal striker Odion Ighalo added: 'It is dream to play in the Premier League. 'It was very tense because we were waiting and listening. We're in good spirits now. This is what I came to England for, to play in the Premier League. 'We can stay in the Premier League. We are very calm. It's not going to be easy but the way we are playing now... I think we can stay there.' It ends Watford's eight-year absence from the top flight after suffering relegation back in 2007. The squad were out partying in the town last night. Troy Deeney opened the scoring at Brighton before a stoppage-time Matej Vydra goal sealed the points. Middlesbrough's capitulation at Craven Cottage also means Bournemouth will effectively earn promotion should they beat Bolton tomorrow by virtue of superior goal difference. The Watford players celebrate at full-time as they secure a return to English football's top-flight.

Watford have sealed an automatic return to the Premier League following their 2-0 win at Brighton and Middlesbrough's 4-3 loss at Fulham. Players celebrated wildly on the team-bus as the news came in. Defender Tommie Hoban is confident that the team has what it takes to stay up next season and insists they already have a strong squad to build on.

An £8million Lotto winner turned up for his normal 4am food factory shift just one day after becoming Scotland's newest lottery winner - to hand in his notice. Philip Dunning 44, from Bo'ness, West Lothian, made the decision to give notice as shift manager at a food plant in the town within hours. After hitting the jackpot in Saturday night's Lotto, he went in for his 4am shift at Caledonia Produce the next day and told his boss he was quitting. Philip Dunning 44, from Bo'ness, West Lothian, made the decision to give notice as shift manager at a food plant in the town within hours. Mr Dunning said he kept checking his wallet to make sure the winning pocket was still with him during the shift. His partner Gina Meikle, 45, who also worked there, did the same. Mr Dunning said: 'I kept the winning ticket in my wallet. I kept checking it throughout my shift, just to make sure it was still there.' The good news was broken by his partner's best friend, Sandra Easton, in an excited phone call. 'She knows our numbers and was shouting down the phone, 'Turn the television on, you've won the lottery!' said Mr Dunning. He admitted yesterday that he was still in shock at the £7,864,529 win, adding: 'At the moment it just seems like numbers.' Their first spending priorities will be a new house and upgrading their Vauxhall Astra. Mr Dunning's millions mean he could easily afford a Bugatti Veyron Super Sports, a mere £2million. Their first spending priorities will be a new house and upgrading from their old car, a Vauxhall Astra. Mr Dunning celebrates in a new Aston Martin. His millions mean he could now easily afford a Bugatti Veyron Super Sports, a mere £2million.

Philip Dunning, 44, from Bo'ness, West Lothian won the £8million jackpot. He turned up at 4am for his usual shift at a food factory to give boss notice. Dunning checked his ticket throughout the day to make sure it was there. Partner Gina, 45, who also worked at the factory handed in her notice too.

The suspected killer of a teenage CBBC star confessed to his girlfriend before fleeing to Nigeria on his brother's passport, a court has heard. Jeffrey Okafor, 24, of East Dulwich, south east London, is accused of stabbing Carl Beatson-Asiedu to death outside a nightclub in the summer of 2009. The 19-year-old victim, known as DJ Charmz, had been leaving the Club Life Nightclub in Vauxhall's Goding Street, in London, with a group of friends after performing a set when a group of men approached them, the court heard. Carl Beatson Asiedu (left) was stabbed to death outside a nightclub by Jeffrey Okafor (right) who then fled to Nigeria on his brother's passport. Opening the trial, Sarah Whitehouse QC, prosecuting, told Woolwich Crown Court that three people had been specifically targeted in the attack including Mr Beatson-Asiedu, a Francis Xavier College student who appeared in CBBC spy show MI High. Peter Lama, also 19, was stabbed in the buttock by Okafor's friend Abu Mansaray while Jermaine Coker was chased by Junior Ademujimi-Falade but escaped. Mr Lama managed to return to the club, where bouncers locked the doors and called the police. Minutes later, Mr Beatson Asiedu was seen staggering along Goding Street before collapsing in the road. His friends bundled him into the back of a car and rang for an ambulance, but police stopped the speeding vehicle as they struggled to find St Thomas' Hospital. He was pronounced dead at 5.36am, with a post-mortem examination concluding that he had died from a single stab-wound to his heart. Ms Whitehouse said: 'Carl Beatson wasn't so fortunate.' 'The prosecution say that Jeffrey Okafor was the person who drew a knife, stabbed him and killed him.' Okafor, who had no connection with his alleged victim, had been at the club with Ademujimi-Falade and another friend Bolaji Kako-Are. Ms Whitehouse continued: 'Junior Flade and Bolaji Kako-Are had also attended Francis Xavier College - the same college as Carl Beatson and Peter Lama. The 19-year-old victim had been leaving the Club Life Nightclub in Vauxhall's Goding Street, in London, with a group of friends after performing a set when a group of men approached them, the court heard. 'It seems there had been trouble between the two groups in the past. In particular, the other group had targeted Carl Beatson at school and had threatened to hit him. 'However, the two groups had often seen each other at parties since then and, although they did not mix, there had been no further trouble. 'It is not clear, and will probably never be known what led up to this killing of Carl Beatson. 'You might hear that there was some ill feeling between some members of the two groups but there's nothing serious enough in the background to explain why knives should be drawn.' She added that Okafor had been part of a larger group which set upon the victim's smaller group at around 5am. As well as appearing in the CBBC show, Mr Beatson-Asiedu had also helped to form a music group called Kidnplay and was known as Charmz. As well as appearing in the CBBC show, Mr Beatson-Asiedu had also helped to form a music group called Kidnplay and was known as DJ Charmz. The musician, whose group was often booked to play at nightclubs in London and Leicester, performed with his friend at the club that night at an event called Summer Vibz. After their performance, they stayed and had some drinks, but Ms Whitehouse told the jury that the victim had very little alcohol and said it does not appear that drink played any part in the violence that was to unfold when they left the club. Mr Beatson-Asiedu was attacked after leaving the nightspot. Efforts to revive him were unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead at the scene, the court heard. A pathologist concluded that the cause of death was a single stab wound to the front of the chest. Shortly after the stabbing, Ofakor confessed to his girlfriend before he fled the country on his brother's passport and would remain in Nigeria for five years. 'After the attack, Jeffrey Okafor actually confessed to a girlfriend that he had stabbed Carl Beatson,' Ms Whitehouse said. Within about an hour of the attack, he phoned a girlfriend and told her he had been involved in a 'madness', the court heard. A few days after the attack, Osakor allegedly told his girlfriend that he had stabbed Charmz in the stomach and gave her a pair of black gloves asking her to look after them. Ms Whitehouse said those gloves were passed to police and DNA which may have come from the victim is on one of the gloves. The defendant also phoned and asked the woman to put a t-shirt 'into a plastic bag and put it into a bin in the road', the jury heard. Later that day, when he returned home, Okafor seemed agitated and said 'I'm going down' and 'The Feds are going to be on to me', Ms Whitehouse told the court. 'Okafor then fled from the country, travelling to Nigeria using his brother's passport. After five years on the run in Nigeria Ofakor is now standing trial at Woolwich Crown Court where he denies one count of murder. 'It was not until the end of last year that it was possible for him to be extradited to this country and face his crime. On August 13 police went to his home address, planning to arrest him and to search the house for any evidence relating to the murder. Ms Whitehouse said he laid low for a time and then early on August 17 2009 he took a flight from Heathrow Airport to Lagos, using his brother's passport, the court heard. He was finally arrested on 23 September last year in Asaba, the capital of Nigeria's Delta State, after being on the run and was then extradited to the UK in November. Today he is finally standing trial. Okafor, who has a beard and wore a red checked shirt and glasses, looked emotionless as he listened to the proceedings. He denies murder. The trial was adjourned until tomorrow morning. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Carl Beatson-Asiedu, 19, was stabbed to death outside a nightclub in 2009. Suspected killer Jeffrey Okafor, 24, had confessed to his girlfriend. He then then went on the run to Nigeria for five years until last November.

Real Madrid failed to activate their first option on Javier Hernandez as the deadline passed on Thursday night. The midnight deadline went by without Madrid making a formal offer to buy the Manchester United striker outright and they must now take their chances with other suitors if they wish to sign him. Hernandez, 26, has impressed in the last few weeks with five goals in his last six games including the decisive strike against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League quarter final and two goals in Madrid's 4-2 win at Celta Vigo last Sunday. Javier Hernandez is enjoying a fine run of form at Real Madrid - scoring three times in his last two games. Hernandez (centre) returned to training with his Real Madrid team-mates on Tuesday. Hernandez (second left) was all smiles in training, but the 26-year-old faces an uncertain future. Yet it has followed a largely frustrating season where he has been restricted to just nine starts. United agreed a deal worth around £15million last summer which allowed Real Madrid to first loan Hernandez for the season then buy him outright before other clubs could bid. That exclusivity period passed at midnight though and that will open the door for other clubs to bid. The Mexico international has interest from West Ham, Southampton, Newcastle and Lazio among others and United value him at around £10million.

Real Madrid had exclusivity on signing Javier Hernandez until Friday. Other clubs can swoop for striker after deadline passed. Manchester United to field offers of £10million for 26-year-old Hernandez. READ: Real Madrid to tempt PSG with a £30m offer for Marco Verratti.

A 'superhero' scientist has ventured into one of the most radioactive places in the world - scaling missile defence system towers, getting bitten by 'radioactive' ants and eating contaminated apples that have grown on trees close to Chernobyl's epicentre. Anonymous scientist Bionerd has attracted thousands of subscribers to her YouTube channel for her visits into the Chernobyl exclusion zone, the site of a devastating nuclear explosion 29 years ago on April 26, 1986, as she measures the high levels of radiation still lingering in the air. Since the disaster the site has been closed off to the world, with Ukrainian scientists agreeing that the area isn't habitable for humans for at least 20,000 years. Despite this, the daredevil researcher claims she has exposed herself to more radiation swimming in the sea and visiting hospital - and says the most scared she's felt during her six visits was getting dangerously close to a rabid fox and walking by abandoned, dilapidated buildings. Scroll down for video. Daring: Bionerd uploaded this picture of her in the Chernobyl power station control room on April 26, exactly 29 years after the disaster. Tasty: Bionerd eats an apple that has grown in radiation-filled Chernobyl, where humans are still not allowed to live due to the cancer risk - but she says she has exposed herself to more radiation going intohospital, and is more likely to develop cancer from swimming in the sea. High: Bionerd free-climbing up the early warning missile detection system in Chernobyl. The area was devastated by a huge nuclear explosion in 1986, but that hasn't stopped the scientist exploring into the no-go zone to film. Speaking to MailOnline Bionerd won't give her real name – because 'Nobody should adore a scientist, one should adore his or her work' – but explains how she has come to 'love' the disaster zone. 'At first it was just about the radiation, the contamination, measuring what was going on. By now, it's for a love of the place', she said. 'Nobody who has not seen this place is able to fully grasp this; a lot of people will think it's crazy. 'But if you've been there and experienced the zone as it truly is - a time capsule - you will understand. Timewarp: An abandoned experiment room in Chernobyl, untouched since the destructive accident in 1986. 31 people died in the immediate aftermath. Abandoned: A derelict operating room in Pripyat - the 'ground zero' city when the nuclear reactor exploded. Bionerd says visiting the abandoned site is like stepping back in time. Damage: The broken pressure gauges from the nuclear power station's control room after the nuclear reactor exploded 29 years ago. Relaxed: Bionerd at the foot of the Duga-3 radar system - known as the Russian Woodpecker - in the heart of the Chernobyl exclusion zone. 'Time stopped the moment the reactor blew, and I don't just mean the readings on the clocks... And if you embrace it, you can understand the zone's true meaning.' The 29th anniversary of the disaster was marked on Sunday, and it is still regarded as the worst nuclear power plant accident in history. Thirty-one people died in the direct aftermath, but the long term effects of the population living close by are still being investigated. As well as conducting scientific experiments measuring the amount of radiation with her bright yellow Geiger counter, Bionerd's videos also show the eeriness of the once thriving and busy area, now abandoned and inhospitable. Yet despite the obvious dangers, Bionerd says she has exposed herself to more radiation when going for a medical procedure in hospital - and is more likely to get skin cancer by swimming in the sea without wearing sunscreen. 'The received dose of radiation [in Chernobly] was far too minor', she said. 'If anything, the medical procedures have exposed me to far greater amounts of radiation than Chernobyl ever will, so if I was to have a 'radiation induced cancer', I probably got it at the emergency room. The Chernobyl power plant after the disaster in 1986. On April 26. 1986, a sudden power surge at the nuclear power plant in Chernobyl, near the city of Pripyat, led to a huge explosion of the reactor which cast highly radioactive particles into the air. The plume spread over wide areas of the then-Soviet Union and eastern Europe, leading to some 350,400 people having to be evacuated and resettled from the most contaminated areas in Belarus, Ukraine and Russia. The fight to contain the contamination led to more than half a million emergency workers exposing themselves to high doses of radiation, and cost 18 billion rubles. The deaths of 31 people - all reactor staff or emergency workers - were directly attributed to the disaster, while the Chernobyl Forum predicts the eventual death toll could reach 4,000 among those with a high level of radiation. The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone was set up by the Soviet military directly after the disaster and covers around 30km of the site, including the epi-centre of the blast. It is one of the most radioactively contaminated areas in the world  - but there are still 197 'Samosley', or 'illegal residents' of the area who refused to move out. Tourism to the zone is growing, thanks in part to the popularity of video games including Call of Duty: Modern Warfare and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Source: Wikipedia. Relaxed: Bionerd with her Geiger counters measuring radiation in Chernobyl. She has visited the site six times to film her experiments. Radiation: Bionerd's array of Geiger counters, which measure the amount of ionizing radiation in the air including alpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays. Death trap: More dangerous than the radiation, Bionerd says, are the derelict buildings on the brink of structural collapse. Predator: The Chernobyl exclusion zone has become popular with wildlife, including this rabies-ridden fox. 'It was very stupid of me to go swimming in the sea multiple times without re-applying sun protection, and I hope I won't have to pay for this ignorance one day.' 'When necessary - which which was very few occasions - I was wearing gloves and/or a respirator and/or shoe protection so I don't get contaminated', she added. 'I was extremely cautious about the buildings, as some of them have partially collapsed and are highly dangerous to enter. 'Being buried by a collapsing wall is the true physical danger in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. 'I was also carefully looking out for animals, especially as rabies is a big issue in any rural area in the Ukraine - and thus, also in the Chernobyl exclusion zone, which is a wildlife habitat more than anything else.' Her encounter with a rabid fox is one of the few times on Bionerd's YouTube videos that you hear genuine panic in her voice, as the wild creature comes dangerously close to her car. Reflecting on the impact that nuclear disasters such as Chernobyl has had on the surrounding environment,  Bionerd said she doesn't see it as an 'ideal' energy source. 'In regard to stuff going really wrong, well, that rarely happens - in comparison to total running reactors versus time - and even if it does, it kills a lot less people in total than mining for coal or the smog resulting from emissions from coal plants. Untouched: The operator console of the control room for the nuclear reactor in Chernobyl. The site has barely been touched since the explosion. Defiant: Bionerd and her colleagues in nuclear reactors five and six over the potential reactor core - right in the heart of Chernobyl (see arrow). She says she wants a reliable energy source before shutting nuclear power plants. But after coal, it's still the second-worst source of power because of all that waste that is produced. Both the chemicals during separation and enrichment of uranium or spent fuel as well as the radioactive waste that results in the end of a fuel cycle are a huge issue. 'In theory, I'd say 'Research nuclear reactors: Yes! Nuclear power as an energy source: No!' But there, look at me - on my computer, with the lights on, drinking some coffee i have just prepared using one kW of power. 'We should also look into means of producing cleaner energy, for example nuclear fusion. Dangerous: The sealed-off Chernobyl nuclear power plant, pictured in March 2015. Massive: Bionerd at the foot of the detection system. She said she finds the attention to her videos 'quite awkward' 'But I cannot demand that we shut off coal plants followed by nuclear power plants within the next ten years, as we need to have a true, reliable and sufficient alternative before that step.' And while Bionerd's videos are rightly receiving praise from around the world due to their scientific content, many have flocked to praise Bionerd's punk style and good looks. How does she feel about that attention? 'If somebody flatters me, it's quite awkward - kind of like if you hand in a manuscript to a book your have put a lot of time and effort into while writing it, and the publisher then writes back to you and just says that you have an absolutely beautiful and marvellous handwriting. 'It's not a bad thing, but it's not really what you want to hear, either.' To see more, visit Bionerd's YouTube channel.

Anonymous vlogger Bionerd has become cult figure in the science world for her thrilling videos shot in Chernobyl. During visits to measure radiation she's been bitten by 'radioactive' ants and eaten contaminated apples from trees. Says she's more likely to get cancer from swimming in the sea - but officials say it's so dangerous to live there.

The future of Andy Murray’s coaching arrangement with Amelie Mauresmo looks shrouded in doubt after he confirmed that they will take a prolonged break from each other after Wimbledon. Mauresmo, who is expecting a baby in August, will be replaced by Swede Jonas Bjorkman in the lead-up to the US Open and quite possibly after that, depending on how she assesses her priorities. The 27-year-old Scot, who is in Munich for this week’s BMW Open and joined in the 100-year celebrations at the Iphitos Tennis Club on Monday night, parted company with Ivan Lendl last year because the Czech was no longer able to spend half the year travelling. Andy Murray (centre), Tommy Haas (left) and Roberto Bautista-Agut help to blow out the candles on a cake to celebrate 100 years at the Iphitos Tennis Club in Munich, the venue for this week's BMW Open. Murray (left) and coach Jonas Bjorkman enjoy the celebrations in Munich on Monday evening. Murray (left) arrives at the party alongside German sports manager Michael Mronz. Murray (right) poses for a picture alongside WBO Super Middleweight champion Arthur Abraham. Murray made it clear that if the responsibilities of parenthood prevent Mauresmo from fulfilling her 26-week commitment, then their relationship may have to go the same way. ‘Right now Amelie does all the major competitions but if she doesn’t want to do loads of time, I don’t find it beneficial if someone just comes in for the major competitions and doesn’t do any of the training, any of the other events,’ Murray said. The plan is for Mauresmo to work with him up until Wimbledon, although by then she will be in the latter stages of pregnancy. Murray originally considered Bjorkman as a replacement for Lendl so if their current trial works well, it is likely he will take a more significant role than as an assistant to Mauresmo. It quickly became clear to Murray that the respected Swede might be used in an increased capacity after Mauresmo told him in February that, eight months after they had formalised their agreement, she was expecting — initially saying she had ‘something personal’ to tell him. ‘I thought, “Something personal to tell you?” I thought maybe she’s pregnant,’ Murray said. ‘She normally goes to the gym all the time but she didn’t train once through Australia. When she told me, it was a bit of a surprise. But because she’d pre-warned me I kind of expected it a little bit.’ Murray and Mauresmo look likely to part ways when his coach gives birth later on in the year. Jonas Bjorkmann (left) will work with Murray until the end of the US Open and then maybe longer. Mauresmo is not in Munich this week for Murray’s first tournament on the clay since he got married. So far everything with Bjorkman has been satisfactory and he joined them in Barcelona last week at a training camp. ‘He’s easy going but as a player he was mentally very strong and had a great work ethic,’ Murray said. ‘I see him as being a good fit personality-wise but you don’t really get the whole package until you’re playing matches and there’s a bit more pressure and stress. I wouldn’t imagine it would be too much of a problem for him.’ Although wearing a wedding ring, Murray will be taking it off when he plays. ‘I can’t play with it holding the racket because it gives me blisters,’ he said. After Munich, Murray is playing Masters level events in Madrid and Rome before heading to the French Open in Paris. Murray trains ahead of the BMW Open in Munich where he looks to pick up some wins on clay.

Jonas Bjorkman joined Andy Murray's camp on an initial trial. Amelie Mauresmo is due to give birth to her first child in August. Bjorkman will work with Murray right through to the US Open. Murray is in Munich to compete in this week's BMW Open on clay.

A rookie playing for the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field for the first time won't remember his home ballpark debut because of the single he hit or the run he scored. Addison Russell, 21, may recall his first game at Wrigley Field with a sense of horror because he let his bat slip through his fingers in the seventh while he was trying to catch up to a fastball. The bat went flying and struck a fan sitting several rows behind the Cubs' on-deck circle in the face. Scroll down for video... Addison Russell was batting for the Chicago Cubs in the seventh inning during his first game at Wrigley Field. Russell, a rookie, swung at a first-pitch fastball and accidentally let the bat slip out of his fingers. The bat went flying and it ended up striking a fan who was sitting several rows behind the Cubs' on-deck circle. Cubs officials rushed to assist the spectator and towels from the home team's dugout were brought to the injured fan. Russell, who was ranked the No. 5 prospect in baseball earlier this month, said the bat 'just slipped', according to MLB. He said: 'I saw it connect with his face. 'I saw the dude's glasses fly, and it just wasn't pretty. I feel really bad. 'Words can't describe how bad I feel.' The rookie, 21, went 1-for-3 on Monday night and is batting .160 in six big league games for the Cubs. Russell, who was ranked the No. 5 prospect in baseball earlier in April, said the bat 'just slipped' from his hand. The fan suffered 'wounds' but was conscious and communicative after being hit, the Chicago Tribune reported. The Cubs said the patient was transported to first aid, then transferred to an ambulance and taken to a nearby hospital. The club thanked everyone who shared their concern while updating the patient's status. If the fan feels comfortable around bats again after he's out of the hospital, Russell has one for him. He said: 'I found the bat in my locker, so if you see that guy out there, I'm willing to give him a bat and sign it. 'I feel terribly bad about it.' Russell went 1-for-3 on Monday night and is batting .160 in six big league games for the Cubs. The Cubs defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-0. The Cubs said the patient went to first aid, was transferred to an ambulance and taken to a nearby hospital. If the fan feels comfortable around bats again after he's out of the hospital, Russell has one waiting for him.

Addison Russell, 21, was playing in his first home game for Chicago Cubs. He was batting in the seventh inning when he swung at pitch and lost bat. Bat struck a fan sitting several rows behind the Cubs' on-deck circle. Fan suffered 'wounds' but was conscious and taken to a nearby hospital. Russell saw fan get hit and said: 'Words can't describe how bad I feel'

There were no apologies from Floyd Mayweather for claiming to be greater than Muhammad Ali. There was reverence for God, even though Manny Pacquiao believes the Almighty is in his corner. There was an emotional remembrance of the frail old gentleman back in his tough birth-place of Grand Rapids, Michigan who was his surrogate grandfather. Floyd Mayweather is preparing to face Manny Pacquiao at the MGM Grand on May 2 in Las Vegas. Mayweather has defended his announcement that he feels he is The Best Ever ahead of the mega-fight. Mayweather built a reputation on being brash and flash but was soft-spoken during his conference call. There was sympathy for Freddie Roach in his battle with Parkinson's disease' even though Pacquiao's trainer has been trash-talking his claim to be The Best Ever. There were even soft-spoken words of thanks for we 200 hacks on the conference call for helping sell the half-billion-dollar richest fight of all time. Goodbye to the brash, flash, bombastic Floyd Jnr. Well, more or less. Hello to the mature Mr Mayweather who weighs his words carefully and respects one and all. Well, mostly. He has been slammed for pronouncing himself superior to Ali so he said: 'I respect all the great champions of the past. But I've done just as much as Ali did. 'He was champion at heavyweight but I've won world titles in five divisions. He fought for a helluva cause (anti-Vietnam War) but I'm still sharp at age 38. Still going strong at age 38. 'He lost, once to man who'd only had seven fights previously. I'm undefeated. He called himself The Greatest so I call myself The Best Ever. I knew there would be a back-lash but I couldn't care less. 'He said he was greater than Sugar Ray Robinson and someone else will come along in the future to be criticised for believing he's the best.' The God question did not faze him: 'I also believe in God. I've been blessed in my life. I love God and I don't believe God takes sides (in fights). We are all God's children and I don't think he roots for which of us he wants to win.' Geroge Foreman is down on count two after being struck by Muhammad Ali's killer right-hander in 1974. Ali looks on after he knocked Foreman to the canvas with the holy mother of all right-handers during the bout. Ali called himself The Greatest and the Rumble in the Jungle was voted the best sporting event of the century. Roach has characterised the fight as 'good against evil' but the barbs have not rattled Mayweather: 'I'm not going to say anything negative about Freddie Roach. Not against someone who's not 100 per cent healthy. He's entitled to say what he wants to say. It's better for me to say nothing at all. 'His fighter is not talking like that and it's only me and Pacquiao who will do the fighting. I wish Freddie well.' The new, considerate Floyd choked up a little when asked about important influences who had inspired him to greatness. He took us back to Grand Rapids and a certain Mr Frank Brown, saying: 'He was important to me from the age of three, Like a grandfather. He would drive me to fights in my amateur days (no Money back then). Sometimes hundreds of miles. He believed in me more than anyone. He told me I'd make it. He took me to church. 'He came to so many of my fights right up to Oscar De La Hoya. But he's not doing well now. He's in an old folks home. He's losing his memory. It hurts. I love the guy so much. I think about him every day.' It went quiet for a moment on the line. It seemed like a good time to ask why he had changed from cocksure to contemplative almost to the point of silence. Mayweather slips a punch from Oscar De La Hoya in the eighth round at the MGM Grand on May 5, 2007. Mayweather poses with the WBC super welterweight belt after beating De La Hoya by split decision in 2007. 'I had to be loud to get where we are today,' he said. 'At 17 or 18 I was saying look at me. The big personality was part of that game plan. To get to this point we're at now. Making seven figures in one night. Now I'm here. And as you get older you mature.' And he welcomes the challenge which some think threatens his unbeaten legacy: 'I respect Manny Pacquaio. To be here now he must be doing something right. 'We reached the point where this fight had to happen. He's one of the last great fighters of our time left for me to defeat. I'm glad it's happening.' He goes back again to a moment in his youth: 'When I was 17 or 18 Mike Tyson had come out of prison. I went to the MGM to watch him fight. Busy? I thought, man, we'll never see the MGM Grand this packed ever again. Manny Pacquiao says he will have to be a warrior against Mayweather but is convinced he will win. Pacquiao works out at a park in Los Angeles, California, ahead of his $300million mega-fight on May 2. Pacquiao is joined by supporters during training as he jogs along a city street to a park in Los Angeles. 'But then I started to believe I could do record numbers one day and now me and my team are making it happen.' Two days earlier Pacquiao had time for only two words at his conference call before his promoter Bob Arum hung up the phone in frustration at some questions he deemed banal. Mayweather gave us about half-an-hour of insights which, at the end, came down to these six words of blinding simplicity: 'My game plan is to win.'

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao meet on May 2 in Las Vegas. Mayweather was soft-spoken during a half-hour conference call. He made no apologies for claiming to be greater than Muhammad Ali. Two days earlier Pacquiao had time for just two words at his conference call before his promoter Bob Arum hung up the phone in frustration. READ: Floyd Mayweather vs Manny Pacquiao tickets FINALLY go on sale. CLICK HERE for all the latest Mayweather vs Pacquiao news.

In Afghanistan, many girls are forbidden from riding bicycles - they are, however, allowed to ride skateboards. So when Australian skateboarder Oliver Percovich created Skateistan, a non-profit organization that aims to connect youth in Afghanistan with education through skateboarding, it shouldn't have been a surprise that 40 per cent of the program's students would be girls. In 2012, photographer Jessica Fulford-Dobson decided to take pictures of these Middle Eastern skater girls, and her work was recently on display at a gallery in London. Scroll down for video. Tough girls: Photographer Jessica Fulford-Dobson took pictures of young girls skateboarding in dresses and skirts in Kabul, Afghanistan. Finding time for fun: Most girls are not allowed to ride bikes in Afghanistan, but skateboarding isn't against the rules. According to Feature Shoot, when Mr. Percovich first brought the program to Kabul, Afghanistan in 2007, many of the locals had never even heard of skateboarding. In fact, Ms. Fulford-Dobson said she believes the reason skateboarding has been received so differently in Afghanistan than in other countries is precisely because it was new to the region. 'When skateboarding arrived in Afghanistan, it didn't have any preconceived images for them. They didn't know what it was,' she said, while adding that it was only accepted after it became clear that it was just 'a toy to have fun with'. Safety first: While the girls were conservatively dressed, they didn't forgo safety measures like wearing helmets and knee pads. Little ladies who skate: Ms. Fulford-Dobson said she was fascinated with just how immaculate one girl, left, was, considering how dusty the skateboard facilities were. This sport knows no gender: 40 per cent of Skateistan's students are female; the girls also have the option of joining a back-to-school program. Now, its the top sport for girls in the country, who are able to ride freely in dresses and other clothing that can be restrictive when playing other sports. When Ms. Fulford-Dobson visited the Skateistan facilities in 2012, she quickly noticed their confidence and the joy they took in learning. She took pictures of them with natural light, capturing them in dresses, pants, headscarves and sneakers as they happily played on skateboards. 'I captured about nine in total,' she told the BBC, recalling one girl whose father had initially told her she couldn't join the skateboarding program. He finally relented after she wouldn't stop begging him. Girls will be girls: Ms. Fulford-Dobson said she was struck by the girls' confidence and how happy they were to skateboard. Unconventional athletic gear: The style of dress required by girls can make it difficult to play other sports, but luckily it doesn’t tend to interfere with their skateboarding. 'I met so many impressive women and girls in Afghanistan: a teacher as tough and determined as any man; young Afghans in their early twenties who were volunteering at an orphanage and were passionate about being seen as strong and willing to fight for themselves, rather than as victims of circumstance; and girls who were being educated to be leaders in their communities and who were already thinking carefully about their own and their country’s future,'  Ms. Fulford-Dobson said. That education is a top priority for Skateistan, as many children in Kabul from low-income families are forced to drop out of school to earn money. Besides being taught to skateboard, the program's participants are also invited to join a free back-to-school program to help them get back on track with their education.

Photographer Jessica Fulford-Dobson took pictures of the girls at the Skateistan facilities in Kabul. Australian Oliver Percovich created Skateistan, an NGO, to promote education through skateboarding; participants can also join a free back-to-school program.

An unknown illustrator who films her every move and interacts with strangers for hours at a time has become one of the internet's biggest celebrities - and she's only been online for 29 days. Amanda Oleander, 25, is one of the stars of Periscope, Twitter's new live broadcasting platform and has been 'loved' over 7.5 million times in less than a month since it launched. Branded the Kim Kardashian of the social platform, when the brunette starts a live stream, thousands of Periscope users around the globe stop what they're doing to watch. Scroll down for video. Amanda Orleander, broadcasting live from her bedroom, is the emerging star of Periscope. In a recent broadcast, Amanda addressed her audience via her iPhone from her LA bedroom: 'Do you know the power that we have? Do you guys understand what is happening. 'This is crazy!' Amanda continued during her bedroom broadcast, and before she has even taken a breath, hundreds of hearts flutter on to her screen - more tokens of 'love' from the thousands of people watching. Last month, the art graduate was going about her anonymous life as an illustrator for entertainment site E! Online but her Periscope broadcasts, which show her going about her daily business in LA, have catapulted her into the limelight. And so far she has had little competition from 'real' celebrities. Ellen DeGeneres is the highest ranking star but is trailing behind Amanda with a mere three million 'loves'. 'This is like a reality show, but it’s not scripted,' Amanda tells her thousands of viewers continuing her bedroom broadcast. 'Before this happened I always thought I'd love to share my life with more people because I’m always up to really spontaneous things.' Amanda mulls over the day during a live broadcast, whilst she chats to the viewers messaging her (which appear on left of screen). So far she has been 'loved' 7.5million times, shown by hearts on the right. The new app not only allows users to stream live video to anyone on Earth who wants to watch, but allows viewers to chat to the broadcaster in real time by typing messages that pop up on screen. So Amanda's monologue is peppered with shout-outs and answers to questions from her viewers. 'Hey Charles,' she says acknowledging a new follower. 'I was going to sleep when I thought about this last broadcast. Arlene you’re funny!' she continues in reference to a message, then 'You’re so beautiful' pops up from @Arlene. 'I don’t know how many of you saw me tonight,' she says. 'We randomly talked to my neighbour, then I went to see my friend Yonatan. Then I met with a Periscope follower for the first time.' A little yellow square with the message 'Show us your boobs' flashes up on screen. 'Why would you do that?' she adds. 'Now you're blocked forever.' A live webcam platform, may seem to have porn written all over but users won't be flashing anything X-rated during broadcasts - nudity is banned. Although bought by Twitter in January for close to $100million (£67million), Periscope is a tech mash-up of selfies, social networking and reality TV, only launched last month,. Twitching curtains to peek at the neighbours may still be a 'no' but watching Amanda randomly go about her day? That's 'way cool', to quote the star herself. And like all the best social networking platforms, the content need not be thrilling to grab considerable global attention. In the last 24 hours, Amanda has broadcast some mundane errands, some sitting in traffic in her Prius (phone in recording mode balanced on her dash board, of course) and a random chat with her neighbour. Periscope allows people to live-stream video from their phones to their Twitter followers with the click of a button. The Periscope team outlined a range of possibilities for the service, including how it can turn any smartphone user into a global reporter. In the last 24 hours, Amanda has broadcast herself going on mundane errands, sitting in traffic in her Prius (phone in recording mode balanced on her dash board, of course) and a random chat with her neighbour. Five hours before her bedtime round-up, Amanda was broadcasting live from an LA bar, watching her friend Yonatan perform the bass guitar. 'I'm drinking water. I don't like to drink alcohol,' Amanda tells viewers in answer to their questions, before introducing some followers she's come across at the bar. 'Hey we're double Persicoping,' she says capturing her new friends waving their phones in the air capturing her capturing them. But it's all too much - even for Amanda. 'We’re going to get off the phone soon so we can enjoy each others' real company,' she says. What will today hold for Amanda when she wakes up in a few hours time? Judging by today, perhaps a trip to the post office, a bit of sitting in traffic and a lot of mulling over the wonders of her new found mutual love for Periscope. Sound thrilling? Don't be shy to admit it. Millions agree. Amanda broadcasting live from an LA bar. 'I'm drinking water. I don't like to drink alcohol,' she tells viewers in answer to questions about what she's drinking. Despite the initial hype surrounding the launch of Periscope, Twitter's iPhone app, which is being touted as a revolutionary new way to share news, there are already a concerning number of users, particularly women, reporting that they have been sexually harassed, or trolled. Justin Esgar , App Developer of the app Goodnight, told FEMAIL that because Periscope 'allows users to share even more of their intimate lives with each other than ever before', there are 'apparent dangers' that users have to consider before accessing it. Special features: The app, which is owned by Twitter, allows users to follow certain people (L) and scroll through a 'Watch' feed of live videos (R) Emma Barker, sex and relationships editor at Cosmopolitan.com, noted that the app is already crawling with men who are using the anonymity afforded to them by the app's settings in order to sexually harass women - including one of her female friends. She explained that her friend recently tried out the app by sharing a conversation she was having with her female roommate. They were fully clothed, sitting on a couch and casually conversing, yet 'within the first 20 seconds the first comment popped up’, asking for the women to ‘show butt’. While neither of them were speaking in an even remotely sexual manor, the lewd comments continued to pour in and included phrases such as: 'Show boobs', 'Age?' and 'I would soooo swipe right on both [sic]!' Streaming revolution: Periscope, an iPhone app that allows users to broadcast live video and audio to the internet, launched last Thursday. One particularly creepy user asked: 'Do you get out of the shower to pee?' According to Periscope's community guidelines, the app prohibits 'pornographic or overtly sexual content' as well as 'explicitly graphic content or media that is intended to incite violent, illegal or dangerous activities'. And while a spokesperson for the app told Emma that Periscope has a team dedicated to content review, there doesn't appear to be anything specific being done to prevent sexual commentary and online harassment. The app's policies are, unsurprisingly, similar to Twitter, which is currently testing out a 'quality filter' that monitors and removes threats and offensive language out of users notifications feeds. It's not clear as to whether or not Periscope will be given a similar screening system.

Strangers watch Amanda Oleander, 25, from LA, all day long. She's the star of Periscope, Twitter's new live broadcasting mobile app. It streams live video and users can chat and message in real time. She's already more popular than celebrities including Ellen DeGeneres.

Two of England’s most ambitious and well-resourced academies go head-to-head on Monday night as Manchester City play Chelsea in the first leg of the FA Youth Cup final. Both teams are packed with talented players eager to make an impression in front of the TV cameras and stake their claim for first-team involvement in the seasons to come. Ahead of the match at City’s Academy Stadium we tell you everything you need to know. Dominic Solanke (second right) scores for Chelsea against Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Youth League final. WHAT’S THE OCCASION? It’s the first leg of the FA Youth Cup final and it’ll take place at City’s 7,200-capacity Academy Stadium, in the shadow of the main Etihad Stadium and part of their £200m Etihad Campus that opened last year. The match kicks off at 7.45pm and will be shown live on ITV4. The second leg takes place next Monday at Stamford Bridge. HOW DID THE TEAMS GET THERE? City started their campaign with a 2-0 win over Oxford United in the third round just before Christmas, with goals from Marcus Wood and Bersant Celina sealing a comfortable win. Jason Wilcox’s team really had their shooting boots on in the fourth round, thrashing Coventry City 8-2. Brandon Barker was the star with three of them, while Thierry Ambrose (2), Pablo Maffeo, Javairo Dilrosun and Denzeil Boadu also cashed in. Man City's Thierry Ambrose (centre) scores his second goal during the 8-2 victory over Coventry. Manchester City's Isaac Buckley Ricketts (left) celebrates scoring during the semi-final against Leicester. It wasn’t as straightforward in the next round, with a solitary Celina strike beating Stoke City, but City were back to their free-scoring best in beating Crewe Alexandra 6-1 in the last eight. Having fallen behind early on, City stormed back to win thanks to goals from Aaron Nemane, Barker (2), Boadu, Celina and Ambrose. That set up a two-legged semi-final with Leicester City and they were very keen to get the job done, winning the home first leg 3-0. Nemane (2) and Boadu continued their scoring form. The second leg at the King Power Stadium was a formality and, having fallen behind to a second-half penalty, two goals in stoppage time from Isaac Buckley and Barker sealed a 5-1 aggregate win. Chelsea started their campaign at the beginning of December and were drawn away to Leeds United. An Izzy Brown penalty and a late second from Dominic Solanke got the Blues Youth Cup defence underway. Huddersfield Town were beaten 6-1 in the fourth round, with England under 18 star Solanke scoring a hat-trick. Tammy Abraham grabbed two and Kasey Palmer rounded off an emphatic win. And Joe Edwards’ team went goal crazy again in the fifth round, beating Swansea 6-0. This time it was Abraham scoring a treble and Solanke adding two. Palmer also got on the scoresheet. A tough trip to Newcastle United followed but the Blues finally prevailed in extra time with Brown, Solanke and Abraham on the scoresheet in a 3-0 win at St James’ Park. That set up a tasty semi-final tie with Tottenham and all seemed lost when Spurs took a 2-0 lead from the first leg at White Hart Lane. Chelsea were to fall further behind in the second leg at Stamford Bridge but mounted an extraordinary fightback. Izzy Brown (centre) scores for Cheslea against Tottenham as they staged a thrilling comeback last month. Goals from Solanke and Brown gave them hope before the break, before two in two minutes from Solanke and Charlie Colkett just after turned the game on its head. A Colkett penalty then put daylight between the teams as Chelsea won a thrilling tie 5-4 on aggregate. YOUTH CUP PEDIGREE. Manchester City have twice lifted the FA Youth Cup - in 1986 and 2008. The last of those saw them defeat Chelsea 3-1 at the Etihad after a 1-1 draw in London. Slovakian Vladimir Weiss was the star performer. He went on to make just five first-team appearances for City and now plays, aged 25, for Lekhwiya in the Qatari Stars League. Chelsea have made the competition their own in recent years and this is their fifth final in six seasons. Their wins in 2010, 2012 and 2014 added to earlier successes in 1960 and 1961. WHAT ARE THEY SAYING? City coach Jason Wilcox: ‘Our job is to recruit local lads. If we can get a group of Manchester-born lads into the first team then that's the ideal scenario. To do that is going to be really difficult but that's the challenge. We don't want local lads playing for Tottenham, Arsenal or Chelsea. It’s up to us to make sure that, via the scouting, we have at least the opportunity of showing them our programme. I’m convinced once they see us it’s very difficult to walk away from.’ Chelsea coach Joe Edwards: ‘Winning breeds confidence so to have a group of players coming back for this game who were crowned European champions last week [when the Under-19s won the UEFA Youth League] is a massive plus for us. Once you get a taste of winning, you want that feeling again and again.’ PLAYERS TO WATCH. MANCHESTER CITY. Brandon Barker - speedy winger who has been on the books at City’s academy since the age of eight. The Manchester-born teenager made a positive impression with 13 goals for the under 18s last season and has since progressed into Patrick Vieira’s Elite Development Squad. Has scored six time on the Youth Cup run and is an England under 19 international. Brandon Barker is an England Under 19 international and scored 13 goals for City's under 18s last season. Thierry Ambrose - capable of playing anywhere across the forward line, Ambrose was signed from Auxerre’s youth teams in 2013. Impressed in his first season with the under 18s, scoring 22 goals in 32 matches, enough to earn the Parisian a place in the EDS team. Has scored three times during City’s Youth Cup run. Ambrose (centre) scored 22 goals in 32 matches for City's under 18s after signing from Auxerre. Aaron Nemane - another who has scored three times during the Youth Cup run. Right winger Nemane made his debut for the City under 18 side at just 14 and made quite an impact by scoring twice. Has played mainly in the under 18 team but did travel to Croatia with the EDS squad last pre-season. Aaron Nemane (right) made his debut for Manchester City's under 18 side aged just 14. CHELSEA. Dominic Solanke - enjoying an extraordinary season and hoping to win the Youth Cup for the second successive season having scored two goals in the last five minutes to sink Fulham last year. With 34 goals for Chelsea this season, he inspired them to UEFA Youth League success a week ago having scored in every round. Should he score in the final, he will also have scored in each round of the Youth Cup. England under 18 international. Solanke (left) has been in prolific form for Chelsea both at home and abroad this season. Jay Dasilva - earned rave reviews for his performances in the Youth League, with Ian Wright suggesting he was already better than any left-back in the Premier League. Still only 16, his mature performance have seen him already established in the under 21 team. Jay Dasilva has impressed for Chelsea at left-back and is a regular for the Under 21 team. Charlie Colkett - captain of the side and an important figure in the Chelsea midfield. Will set the tempo and drive the team forward with direct runs and intelligent passes. Very impressive all season, especially on the continental stage. Charle Colkett (right) is captain of Chelsea's youth cup side and has impressed all season.

FA Youth Cup final first leg between Man City and Chelsea is on Monday. Chelsea are in their fifth final in six years and won in 2010, 2012 and 2014. Man City last lifted the trophy back in 2008 after beating Chelsea 4-2.

A Native American woman has accused Facebook of being discriminatory after she was prevented from continuing to use her unusual name on the social media platform. Brenna Happy Cloud of Salem, Oregon, found herself locked out of her Facebook account last week. For five days she received the same message every time she attempted to logged in. Brenna Happy Cloud of Salem, Oregon, has accused Facebook of discrimination after she was prevented from continuing to use her unusual name and was locked out of her account. With no access to her contacts, photos and messages, Happy Cloud admits it was a difficult time as she typically posts five or six times a day and has a large network of more than one thousand online friends. 'I was gone. And the world didn't know where I was,' she told Fox12. Facebook's helpdesk eventually contacted Happy Cloud and asked for proof of identity and even a copy of her social security card. In order to get her account back online, Happy Cloud has had to change her screen name to her married name, Rojas, even though she is no longer with her husband. 'Other people can use their nicknames, inappropriate names, but I can't use my real name,' she told Fox 12. 'It kind of hurts a little bit.' Happy Cloud also said that she believes her Native American heritage has been undermined by Facebook's discriminatory policies. Happy Cloud believes her Native American heritage has been undermined by Facebook's discriminatory policies.

Brenna Happy Cloud of Salem, Oregon, has accused Facebook of discrimination after her account was suspended. The Native American woman has been forced to use a different surname in order to regain access to her list of over 1,000 online friends. 'Other people can use their nicknames, inappropriate names, but I can't use my real name,' she said. Happy Cloud believes her Native American heritage has been undermined by Facebook's discriminatory policies.

His primary job is to keep opposition strikers at bay, but that hasn't stopped John Terry from showing them the art of finishing too. The Chelsea captain scored his side's second goal in their 3-1 win away at Leicester on Wednesday night - as the Blues close in on their fourth Premier League title. The 34-year-old's close-range effort took his tally for the season to seven in all competitions - making him the club's joint third-highest goalscorer. John Terry was on hand to prod home from close range against Leicester on Wednesday night. Terry's strike at the King Power Stadium was his seventh goal in all competitions for Chelsea this season. Terry sits alongside strikers Loic Remy and Didier Drogba with seven goals apiece as well as attacking midfielder Oscar. Only star striker Diego Costa (20 goals) and PFA Player of the Year Eden Hazard (18) have more for Jose Mourinho's side this campaign. The centre back's ability to score is a skill that compares him favourably to the firepower among other teams in and around the top seven of the table. At Manchester City, former Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard also has seven goals in all competitions this season - but Terry has fared better than forwards Edin Dzeko and Stevan Jovetic who have only found the back of the net six and five times respectively. On the other side of Manchester, much has been made of the malaise of on loan United striker Radamel Falcao. The 29-year-old has endured a tough season in England and this has been reflected by his poor tally of four goals in all competitions. Terry's goal return is better than Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko - who has six goals for the season. Radamel Falcao has endured a difficult season on loan at Manchester United - scoring only four goals. Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck (centre) has scored only one more goal than Terry this season. Liverpool forward Mario Balotelli (left) and Tottenham's Roberto Soldado have both struggled in front of goal. Danny Welbeck, who left United for Arsenal last summer, hasn't fared much better too - having scored eight goals in all competitions for the Gunners. North London rivals Tottenham have relied heavily upon on the goals of Harry Kane and without his productivity Mauricio Pochettino would have had to call upon four-goal man Roberto Soldado and Emmanuel Adebayor who has only scored twice. Liverpool's struggle for goals has been highlighted by the fact that Raheem Sterling has been deployed in attack by manager Brendan Rodgers this season. First-choice forward Daniel Sturridge has scored only five goals in a campaign which has been beset by injuries. Coupled with that, summer signings Mario Balotelli and Rickie Lambert have failed to replace the void left by Luis Suarez - with the pair having scored four and three goals apiece. Terry's impressive goal return is even impressive when you look at the figures of Lambert's former club Southampton, where Saints forward Graziano Pelle (15) is their only player to have scored more than the former England international. The south coast club's next highest marksman is Sadio Mane with six then Shane Long with five. Southampton striker Graziano Pelle (left) has scored 15 goals in all competitions for the club this season. Chelsea's No 26 is vying with team-mate Branislav Ivanovic and United's Chris Smalling as this season's highest-scoring Premier League defender. The trio all have four goals in England's top-tier this season - three behind Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel's feat 12 months ago. Despite their impressive return, the triumvirate have a long way to go to match Julian Dicks' record. The West Ham legend netted 10 goals during the 1995-96 season as the Hammers finished 10th in the table with 51 points after the 38-game season. West Ham legend Julian Dicks (right) scored 10 Premier League goals for the club during the 1995-96 season.

Chelsea won 3-1 away at Leicester in the Premier League on Wednesday. John Terry scored Chelsea's second in their win at the King Power Stadium. Goal was Terry's fourth in the Premier League this season. Ex-West Ham defender Julian Dicks scored 10 during the 1995-96 season. READ: Branislav Ivanovic has more assists than Mesut Ozil.

Manny Pacquiao has become one of the most recognisable stars in the world of sport after a series of mega-fights and another one to follow on Saturday night against Floyd Mayweather at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The Filipino has been involved in some of the biggest bouts in the world over the past decade or so, facing the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto and four fights against Mexican warrior Juan Manuel Marquez. But it's been a tough road to the top for Pacquiao from being born into poverty in the Philippines. He spent the early part of his career boxing in the Far East before being given his chance on the big stage in 2001 against Lehlo Ledwaba in an IBF world super-bantamweight title fight in Las Vegas. Manny Pacquiao pictured as a teenager in a boxing gym in Manila before he became a global superstar. The FIlipino boxer working out at the LM Gym in Manila, Philippines as a 17-year-old before he fought his way to the top of the game. Pacquiao has made a remarkable rise through the weight divisions from being an incredibly slight light-flyweight when he made his debut. Pacquiao left home aged 14 to move to the Philippines capital Manila to pursue his career in the sport which has made him an icon. The 36-year-old spent his early career fighting in the Far East before being given his chance on the big stage in Las Vegas in 2001. Pacquiao pictured as a 17-year-old in the LM Gym in Manila when mega-fights, like the one against Floyd Mayweather, were just a dream. Who do you think WILL win the fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao? Who do you think WILL win the fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao? Now share your opinion. Ever since dethroning the South African world champion on that June night at the MGM Grand 14 years ago, Pacquiao hasn't looked back and is set to take on Mayweather in the Fight of the Century on Saturday. Just days away from the $300million showdown on the Vegas Strip, pictures have emerged of Pacquiao as a teenager in a Manila boxing gym, when occasions such as this Saturday night were just a dream. Pacquiao moved away from home a the age of 14 to the country's capital Manila to pursue his boxing career and the rest, as they say, is history. The 36-year-old is now one of the biggest stars in the world. These incredible pictures show Pacquiao training at the LM Gym in Manila in 1996 at the age of 17 after he won his first 10 professional bouts - all of which were in 1995. In the same year that these pictures were taken, Mayweather was preparing to box at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, which ended for him in a controversial loss against Serafim Todorov in the semi-finals. Nineteen years later, Mayweather and Pacquiao will finally cross paths in the biggest fight of this generation. The pair will make their first public appearances of the week on Tuesday as the bout draws ever closer. Boxing fans have already begun pouring into Las Vegas to taste the atmosphere building around the richest fight in history, even though only 500 tickets for the clash were made available for general sale. Pacquiao will host a fans' rally on Tuesday at the Mandalay Bay Hotel with trainer Freddie Roach, promoter Bob Arum and his pet Jack Russell Pacman also present. Attention then turns to the MGM Grand, the venue for the fight on Saturday and where Mayweather will be making his grand arrival. The welterweight rivals were both due to attend the traditional grand arrival that marks the beginning of fight week only for Arum to withdraw Pacquiao, claiming the event is a 'waste of time'. Arum also pulled the plug on a media conference call with Pacquiao last week before a question had been asked, while Mayweather spoke for almost half an hour the following night. The one upmanship is sure to continue until fight day. Pacquiao has been involved in some of the biggest fights over the last decade but Saturday's occasion will eclipse all of them. The teenage version of Pacquiao before he went on to become a world champion and achieve massive success on the world stage. Mayweather in action at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, where he won a bronze medal after being beaten by Serafim Todorov. Pacquiao arriving at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas on Monday night after a 270-mile bus journey from Los Angeles. The 36-year-old was mobbed upon arrival in Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay hotel, which will be his base for the week. Pacquiao's luxury bus leaves his training base in Los Angeles to set off for Las Vegas on Monday afternoon ahead of the fight. The MGM Grand's Garden Arena on the world famous Las Vegas strip will host the $300million mega-fight on Saturday. The MGM Grand prepares for another huge fight, but this one has been described as the biggest single event in Las Vegas history. Pacquiao with his trainer Freddie Roach at the Wild Card Gym in his final session before leaving Los Angeles. An Air Asia aircraft at Ninoy Aquino International Airport just south of Manila covered in a tribute to the Filipino boxing superstar.

Manny Pacquiao will take on Floyd Mayweather at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Saturday. The Filipino boxer is one of the biggest stars in the world of sport after a series of big fights. Pacquiao spent his early years boxing in Manila in the Philippines and was pictured training as a 17-year-old. Pictures taken in 1996 show Pacquiao training at the LM Gym in Manila before he became a star. The 36-year-old arrived in Las Vegas on Tuesday after a 270-mile journey from Los Angeles on his luxury bus. CLICK HERE for all the latest Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather news.

An Ohio couple have filed a major lawsuit against the risque erotic e-book 'A Gronking To Remember', claiming a photo as they were celebrating their engagement was used as the online cover without their permission. The unnamed couple are subsequently suing the novella's author, who released it under the pen name Lacey Noonan, as well as distributors Apple, Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble for allowing readers to buy the work in iBooks, Kindle and Nook digital formats. The fan fiction, which is $2.51 on Kindle, is about a housewife's infatuation with New England Patriots tight end Rob 'Gronk' Gronkowski, who she habitually masturbates over while watching his games. It enjoyed some viral success following its release, which coincided with the Superbowl. Scroll down for video. 'Appropriated image': The couple featured on the cover of A Gronking To Remember, a work of fan fiction about a woman's sexual infatuation with Patriots player Rob 'Gronk' Gronkowski, say the photo of them that appears was used without their permission or without them even knowing. 'Ridicule': The book has been shown as a source of ribald humor on The Tonight Show and Jimmy Kimmel Live, the lawsuit claims. Gronkowski even read out some of the cringeworthy lines during the Patriots press tour, including during an appearance of Jimmy Kimmel Live. One such line is: 'Spike me, Daniel, through the goalposts of life.' Another part reads: 'I’ll never forget the first time I saw Gronk spike a football. The unrivaled power of his touchdown dance: ‘The Gronk.’ It jettisoned jiggling ribbons of electric jelly through my body and melted my knees like two pads of margarine.' However the lawsuit slams the book is distasteful and 'offensive'. 'The use of the plaintiffs' image has held them up to ridicule and embarrassment,' the lawsuit said, according to The Hollywood Reporter. 'This outrageous connection has been further aggravated when the book with the plaintiffs' image has been reproduced in the media nationwide. 'The book has been shown as a source of ribald humor on The Tonight Show and Jimmy Kimmel Live as well as being displayed and read before the press at media day for the Super Bowl.' Source of infatuation: Rob Gronkowski answers questions from reports on April 23 during a visit to the White House after the New Englad Patriots won the Superbowl. The book was self-published by the pseudonymous Noonan, meaning she is likely the one who chose the image for the cover. It is unclear how she came to find the photo in the first place however. A new cover has now started to appear online featuring a different couple. The couple is asking the court to award “any profits derived from and attributable to” the unauthorized use, or $10,000, compensatory damages of $25,000, attorneys fees, court costs, expenses and treble damages, The Boston Globe reported. The case has been transferred to federal court in Ohio.

Ohio couple suing author Lacey Noonan as well as Apple, Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Claim personal photo of them on the book's cover was appropriated without permission and without them knowing. Say the book has caused them to be ridiculed and humilaited. The fan fiction is about a woman's sexual infatuation with New England Patriots tight end Rob 'Gronk' Gronkowski.

A former member, Miracle, told Daily Mail Australia abuse victims were often blamed for their situations. As police step up their inquiries into a secretive Christian community following abuse allegations, former members have told of a culture of victim-blaming. Gloriavale, a New Zealand settlement of around 500 where everyone follows a strict New Testament creed and wears blue uniforms, has come under increasing scrutiny in recent weeks. Several ex-members have come forward, telling stories of sexual abuse, violence and bullying - sometimes involving underage girls. Miracle escaped Gloriavale with her family around six years ago. She told Daily Mail Australia that sex outside of marriage and with underage children was 'absolutely frowned upon' and 'dealt with very severely in the community'. 'In saying that, these things have happened. These allegations against certain individuals - there is truth in them. 'Where it's been brought out into the open, the leaders have dealt with it - but where I disagree is that the girls in particular are blamed. Scroll down for video. Gloriavale, a New Zealand settlement of around 500 where everyone follows a strict New Testament creed and wears blue uniforms, has come under increasing scrutiny in recent weeks following abuse allegations. Residents of Gloriavale follow a New Testament code, wear blue uniforms and do not use birth control. This still is from a previous documentary about Gloriavale. Gloriavale is located on the west coast of New Zealand and has an estimated population of around 500. 'Julia', pictured, told a New Zealand television program she was the victim of a 'wrong relationship' with an adult man when she was a child. 'They have been called w****s and s***s and that sort of thing and almost exonerated the guys. The guys couldn't help it. 'That then causes an effect where the girls don't want to bring it out into the open. They think if I go and say, "this happened to me" they'll turn on me and "blame me".' Miracle said there had been a few 'one off incidents' - but that 'it's not just the one'. 'Where I disagree is the way it's been dealt with, it's always placed on the girl. 'Women are treated well, they are looked after very well, but there is this doctrine that women submit to the men and do what they are told. '(The men) are brought before meetings and dealt with. They are punished. But not to the same extent the girl would be.' Another former member, Karen Winder, told stuff.co.nz abuse was 'not rampant'. She said young men are 'groomed' to have sex with underage girls and should not shoulder the blame. '(Some think) that 13 and 14 year old girls are ready to have babies - there's no child rape going on,' Ms Winder was quoted saying. 'A 23-year-old is not necessarily culpable for his actions, because he's been groomed for it.' She reportedly added that she knew of a female member who had been involved with an older man when she was 15. There has been an exodus from Gloriavale (located on the picturesque banks of Lake Haupiri) in recent years. Another escapee, Julia, told the Campbell Live program earlier this month that she had a 'wrong relationship with a married guy when she was 12 or 13' - and he was a decade older. Gloriavale responded to recent allegations in an interview with TVNZ this week. 'There have been serious allegations but it doesn't mean they're all true,' said a spokesman. He would not discuss the particulars. Police reportedly made a 'social call' to the town this week and are urging anyone with evidence of abuse to come forward. Miracle said Gloriavale needs to open itself up the outside world. 'These things are starting to happen more and more frequently because of their closing off,' she said. There has been a mass exodus from Gloriavale over the past two years, most recently including a family of 14 in March. They, and other families are now living some 350km south-west of Gloriavale. The Ben Canaan family, pictured, recently left Gloriavale for Timaru.

Gloriavale is a Christian sect of around 500 New Zealanders. All residents wears blue uniforms and there is no birth control. Closed off from the outside world, it has come under scrutiny recently. Several former members have come forward with abuse, bullying allegations. The incidents were rare but several have occurred. One former member tells Daily Mail Australia female victims cop the blame. 'They're called s***s and w****s,' she said. 'Some think 13 year old girls are ready to have babies', another told stuff.co.nz.

Officers who rushed to the scene of the Colorado theater shooting entered a hellish world of bloody victims, noxious smells and blaring sounds - a gloomy darkness pierced by bright flashes from a fire alarm, police testified Wednesday. 'It was dim, the movie was still playing, the alarm was going off,' Aurora police officer Annette Brook told jurors in the trial of gunman James Holmes. 'I began to notice the bodies, the live victims, the blood.' Prosecutors called Brook and two other officers as witnesses on Wednesday, and their descriptions of the chaos of inside the suburban Denver theater intensified the already disturbing scene described a day earlier by moviegoers who were badly wounded or saw loved ones gunned down in the July 20, 2012, attack. Scroll down for video. The third day of the trial against suspected Aurora, Colorado movie theater shooter James Holmes continued on Wednesday. If convicted, Holmes could be sentenced to death. Pictured above in court on Monday, far left. Twelve people were killed and 70 hurt when Holmes allegedly opened fire on a packed theater in Aurora, Colorado for a midnight showing of The Dark Knight Rises in July 2012. Above, the scene of the theater after the shooting. Twelve people died and 70 were wounded. Holmes is charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. He admits he was the shooter, his defense attorneys say, but schizophrenia had taken control of his mind and compelled him to kill. His lawyers are asking the jury to find him not guilty by reason of insanity, which would send him to the state mental hospital indefinitely. Prosecutors argue Holmes was sane and fully aware that what he was doing was wrong. They want the jury to convict him and sentence him to die. Holmes' defense attorneys want the jury to find him not guilty by reason of insanity. Prosecutors say Holmes knew what he was doing, however. On the left, a sketch of Holmes in court on Monday and and 2012 mugshot on the right. In the opening days of the trial, prosecutors have appeared intent on planting a deeply upsetting image in the jurors' minds. 'It smelled very, very bad,' officer Tomas Campagna testified Wednesday, describing the mixed odors of blood, sweat, urine and feces. 'It's hard to imagine unless you've been there.' Spent cartridges and casings from a shotgun, a rifle and a handgun littered the ground, so thick that officers couldn't avoid stepping on them, Campagna said. In places, the floor looked like it had been painted in blood, he said. Cellphones left behind by the victims rang far into the night. More victims testified Wednesday, describing the booms and the brilliant flashes of light that burst from the muzzles of the weapons aimed at them and the hot pain of being shot. One of those victims was Joshua Nowlan, a former member of the military who worked on aircraft carriers. He went to the movie, 'The Dark Knight Rises,' at the Century 16 multiplex in the Denver suburb of Aurora with friends who had just returned from their honeymoon in Florida. About 15 or 20 minutes into the film, a tear gas canister was thrown into the theater, and then the shooting started. Nowlan, who shielded his friends from the bullets, was shot twice and has undergone multiple surgeries. He used the cane he now needs to walk to show jurors what he saw next. 'I assumed it had to be the shooter, from his stance ... He was walking around, and I can see him pointing the gun in a circular motion that looked like he was searching for more people ... I was terribly scared,' Nowlan told the court. 'My thought process was that he was searching for other people and that he was going to start going row by row, and that anybody he would see in that row who was still moving, he would shoot.' He described the shooter firing three-round bursts. Asked if the gunman moved fast or methodically, Nowlan said: 'He was definitely moving slowly.' None of the victims said they saw Holmes' face, but one of the police officers did. Sgt. Spc. Gerald Jonsgaard testified he saw Holmes lying on the ground in the parking lot outside the theater as two officers arrested him. Jonsgaard didn't identify Holmes by name Wednesday but said he was sitting at the defense table. Holmes' lawyers have not cross-examined any prosecution witnesses. They will call their own witnesses after the prosecution rests.

Victims of the 2012 Colorado movie theater shooting testified in court on Wednesday as the trial of suspect James Holmes continued. Police officers who responded to the scene also spoke in court about the incident which resulted in the deaths of 12 moviegoers. If convicted, Holmes could face the death penalty. His defense attorneys argue that he was insane.

The Avengers have battled to save Earth from an alien invasion, the evil Loki and now, in the latest movie, face off against the killing machine Ultron. They do this, of course, with the help of numerous superpowers - including Iron Man’s suit, super-healing abilities and Captain America’s indestructible shield. But just how scientifically sound are some of these powers, and do any of them hold up to the laws of physics and chemistry as we know them? Scroll down for video. The American Chemical Society in Washington explained the science behind the Avengers in a video. It looks at the composition of Iron Man's suit - said to be a gold-titanium alloy in one of the movies - and Captain America's shield. The video also explains the science behind super-healing abilities. In a video for Reactions, the American Chemical Society took a look at the science of Marvel's Avengers. It begins looking at Tony Stark, better known as Iron Man when he dons his iron suit of armour. His original suit, made only of iron, would have weighed around 70kg (150lbs) according to the ACS - not very comfortable or easy to move around in. He later upgrades it to a gold-titanium alloy, but that would actually make things worse explained the video. ‘That suit would probably weigh around 160kg (350lbs), which might work for the Hulk but not for Tony Stark,’ said the narrator. However, Dr Raychelle Burks continued that it is later made of a nickel-titanium alloy called nitinol. This is ‘strong but light, and can be reformed after taking damage,’ she said. ‘There may also be some graphite reinforced with carbon fibre, which can take a lot of heat - useful if Iron Man doesn’t want to singe his feet using those rocket boots.’ Tony Stark, better known as Iron Man when he dons his iron suit of armour and played by Robert Downey Jnr (pictured), made his original suit out of iron. He later upgrades it to a gold-titanium alloy, but according to the ACS that would be heavy and uncomfortable - perhaps better for the Hulk than Iron Man himself. None of this would work, though, without Stark’s own portable nuclear power station - the Arc Reactor. In Iron Man 2 this uses palladium - but we soon learn this is poisoning and killing the character. So instead, he creates a new element - and Dr Burks said this might not be as far-fetched as it seems. He uses his own particle accelerator to smash the nuclei of atoms together and make a new type of atom, which is not entirely dissimilar to the experiments taking place at real-life accelerators such as Cern. ‘Scientists have made 20 synthetic elements this way, so it’s not unbelievable that Stark would have made new elements to power his suit,’ said Dr Burks. The main skeleton of Raytheon;s exoskeleton, shown, is made from high-strength aluminium and steel, and weighs about 95kg (209lb) Iron Man’s superpowers don’t stem from a radioactive spider bite or exposure to gamma rays; they are simply the result of some very clever engineering - and quite a bit of money too. It makes sense then that we should try to replicate his powerful suit, and some companies are already coming incredibly close. Raytheon, an American defence contractor, has developed a super-strong robotic exoskeleton for the US Army. Soldiers can simply strap into the suit and its high-pressure hydraulic system will enhance their strength, agility and endurance, enabling them to be extremely physically active without risk of exhaustion or injury. The current version must be tethered to its power source, an internal combustion hydraulics engine, but an untethered version is expected to be operational by 2020. It’s not just the military that can benefit from exoskeletons, though, as Lockheed Martin has also designed a suit specifically to help workers operate heavy machinery. The Fortis helps to carry the weight of tools, enabling the operator to work for longer between breaks required to recover from muscle fatigue. Source: How It Works issue 72, 'Real-life superpowers' Tony Stark's suit is powered by his famous Arc Reactor, but in Iron Man 2, we learn that its palladium fuel source is slowly killing him. So instead, Stark creates a new element - and this might not be as far-fetched as it seems as it follows somewhat similar principles to those taking place at Cern. Stark isn’t the only one with super-human abilities, though. Both Captain America and Black Widow have super strength, quick reflexes - and, most interestingly - the ability to heal quickly. ‘In normal healing, a type of white blood cell called a macrophage fights infections and oversees the repair process,’ explains Dr Burks. While this can take two to five days in regular humans, the macrophages of Captain American and Black Widow appear to be super productive, helping them heal even more quickly. Both Captain America (left) and Black Widow (right) have super strength and quick reflexes, while and - most interestingly - the ability to heal quickly. This could be due to having advanced macrophages, which let them fight infections and repair their bodies much quicker than us regular humans. And Captain America also has his shield as protection, which can deflect bullets, grenades, lasers and so on. Most of its protection appears to come from steel, although this is not a great shock absorber - and somehow Captain America is able to survive even the heaviest of blows from Thor’s hammer. The reason is thanks to the imaginary mineral called vibranium which, while fictional, has some science at its core. Captain America also has his shield as protection, which can deflect bullets, grenades, lasers and so on. The reason is thanks to the imaginary mineral called vibranium - which, while fictional, has some science at its core. It appears that this material can turn vibrational energy from an impact into light energy. ‘This material can absorb a near infinite amount of vibration energy without getting too hot or melting,’ explains Dr Burks. As evidenced by a flash of light as Thor’s hammer hits the shield, it appears this material can ‘convert vibrational energy to light energy,’ keeping the Captain safe. Of course, you have to suspend disbelief just a bit to assume this is possible - but perhaps the Avengers have more of a root in science than you thought.

Washington's American Chemical Society video explains the Avengers. It looks at the composition of Iron Man's suit and Captain America's shield. And it also explains science behind Black Widow's super-healing abilities. The verdict is that some - but not all - of the science is plausible.

House leaders have reached a bipartisan compromise on a bill that would end the National Security Agency's controversial collection of American phone records, but the measure faces an uncertain future in the Senate. The House Judiciary Committee on Thursday overwhelmingly passed the latest version of a bill known as the USA Freedom Act by a bipartisan vote of 25 to 2. The measure seeks to codify President Barack Obama's proposal to end the NSA's collection of domestic calling records. It would allow the agency to request certain records held by the telephone companies under a court order in terrorism investigations. The authority to collect those records and other related surveillance provisions of the Patriot Act will expire June 1 unless Congress passes a law reauthorizing it. The House bill would do that, with changes. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO. UNHOLY TRIUMVIRATE? CIA Director John Brennan (center), National Security Agency Director Mike Rogers (right) and Director of National Intelligence James Clapper (left) will soon be handed new rules of the road for mass-surveillance efforts. REMEMBER ME? NSA leaker Edward Snowden is still taking refuge outside the US, nearly two years after exposing the depth of the agency's eavesdropping program. Republican Representatives Bob Goodlatte and Jim. Sensenbrenner, and Democrats John Conyers and Jerry Nadler. introduced the 'USA Freedom Act.' It would result in phone companies, not the NSA, collecting so-called 'metadata' on trillions of phone calls. Government agencies could get access to it by applying to a judge empowered by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Similar legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by. Democrat Patrick Leahy and Republican Mike Lee. But Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch. McConnell is seemingly out of phase, sponsoring his own bill to extend the PATRIOT Act – unchanged – until the end of 2020. McConnell said he intended his bill to be a starting point for legislative debate, not a complete solution. A similar bill to the one that cleared the Judiciary Committee passed the full House last year by a bipartisan vote of 303 to 121 but narrowly failed a procedural vote in the Senate. The Judiciary Committee chairman, Virginia Republican Rep. Bob Goodlatte, said the bill's provisions had been carefully negotiated with both the intelligence committee and intelligence agencies. During the hearing, lawmakers said a deal had been reached to bring the USA Freedom Act to the floor without going through the intelligence committee, where many Republicans support continuing the NSA bulk collection. The NSA's collection and storage of U.S. 'to and from' landline calling records – times, dates and numbers, but not content of the calls – was the most controversial program among many disclosed by former NSA systems administrator Edward Snowden. CONTRARIAN: Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, is trying to reauthorize the USA PATRIOT Act without changes. Some NSA officials opposed the program, and independent evaluations have found it of limited value as a counterterrorism tool. Goodlatte said the House bill would create a 'narrower, targeted program,' that will still allow the NSA to hunt for connections between foreign terrorists and U.S. residents. 'We must act decisively to end bulk collection in the United States,' said Rep. John Conyers, the ranking Democrat, in an Associated Press interview. 'For years, the NSA has collected our phone records, yet it cannot point to a single attack that the collection has stopped,' added Rep. James Sensenbrenner, a Wisconsin Republican who was one of the Patriot Act's original authors. Some lawmakers offered amendments they said would toughen the bill's civil liberties provisions, but those were voted down, with other lawmakers saying they would kill the deal and empower those who want to continue NSA phone records collection. A civil liberties group praised the bill. 'The USA Freedom Act of 2015 offers an effective path forward in reforming overbroad domestic surveillance and putting an end to the bulk collection of Americans' communications,' said Nuala O'Connor, president of the Center for Democracy and Technology, in a statement.

FREEDOM Act would replace PATRIOT Act when it expires on June 1. Careful negotiations have brought it to a House vote but the Senate is still uncertain. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has introduced a bill that would re-authorize the existing PATRIOT Act for 5 more years. Civil liberties activists are upset over mass-surveillance carried out by the NSA and exposed by leaker Edward Snowden.

Eugenie Bouchard's run of poor form continued as the top seed was beaten 6-3, 6-1 by American Lauren Davis in the second round at the Family Circle Cup in Charleston on Wednesday. Davis, 21, had lost her only career meeting with Bouchard, but was in control this time against the world No 7. Davis won nine of the final 11 games of the match and broke Bouchard's serve twice in the final set to pull off the upset. Eugenie Bouchard fires down a serve during her second-round match at the Family Circle Cup. Bouchard shows her frustrations during her straight-sets defeat by Lauren Davis on Wednesday. 'I've never beaten here before, so I came out knowing I had nothing to lose,' said Davis, ranked 66th in the world. Bouchard was a semi-finalist last year but had struggled in the lead-up to the Charlston green-clay event, losing three of her last five matches to lower-ranked opponents. Davis used precise groundstrokes to keep Bouchard on her heels throughout the second set. Davis broke Bouchard's serve to love to take a 3-1 lead as the 21-year-old Canadian had a double fault, then sailed a forehand long to fall behind. Two games later, Davis hit a backhand to send back Bouchard's 102mph serve for a winner down the left sideline and a 5-1 lead. Davis hits a forehand on her way to an impressive win against the Canadian top seed. Bouchard has struggled recently, this time slumping to her fourth defeat in six matches. The match ended on Bouchard's forehand into the net, Davis waving to the cheering crowd. Bouchard said: 'As soon as it was over, definitely a bit of anger, but also kind of this confusion, slash, like quest to find what's wrong, like this kind of searching feeling that, 'OK, like I know something's off.' 'I know something's not right. So I want to find it. I was definitely a little bit slow today, overpowered. 'Usually, I'm the one dominating. So it was definitely, just, I don't know, just not good.'

Eugenie Bouchard suffered her fourth defeat in six matches. The Canadian top seed lost to Lauren Davis at the Family Circle Cup. World No 66 Davis won 6-3, 6-1 in the second round in Charleston. Davis won nine of the final 11 games of the match to seal victory. CLICK HERE for all the latest news from Charleston.

Sam Burgess has been selected in the back row as Bath seek to bounce back from the end of their European dream by defeating Newcastle on Friday night. Burgess has spent the vast majority of his fledgling union career at inside or outside centre, but head coach Mike Ford will examine his credentials at blindside flanker in the Aviva Premiership showdown at Kingston Park. The former rugby league star has struggled to make an impact in the midfield since converting to union towards the end of last year and Ford has repeatedly stated that he views the back row as the most suitable home for his explosive ball-carrying and defence. Sam Burgess has featured mainly at centre for Bath since his arrival from the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Burgess leaves the pitch following his side's European Champions Cup defeat by Leinster on Saturday. Burgess was called into England's RBS 6 Nations squad to step-up his education in the new code, although he was never considered for selection by the Red Rose who regard him as an inside centre. The 26-year-old's slow progress since departing the South Sydney Rabbitohs has led to speculation he may return to league, but Jason Robinson is among those who believe he can still win a place in England's World Cup squad. Burgess' elevation to the starting XV is one of eight changes made to the team dumped out of the Champions Cup by an 18-15 quarter-final defeat to Leinster in Dublin. Burgess was called into Stuart Lancaster's England squad during the RBS 6 Nations. South Africa flanker Francois Louw leads the side as regular skipper Stuart Hooper has a calf injury, while Semesa Rokoduguni is restored to the right wing. Victory over Newcastle at Kingston Park would strengthen Bath's claim to home advantage in the Premiership play-offs and lift them up to second place, albeit temporarily if Saracens defeat Leicester. Newcastle have replaced Tom Catterick with Rory Clegg as one of four changes as they seek to make inroads into the seven-point gap separating them from London Irish in 10th place. England winger Semesa Rokoduguni (left) returns to the Bath startling line-up against Newcastle.

Bath face Newcastle Falcons in the Aviva Premiership on Friday night. Sam Burgess has played predominately at centre so far for Bath. But the former rugby league superstar will line up at flanker on Friday.

Given Manny Pacquiao is on his show next week it's just as well Jimmy Kimmel didn't offend the Filipino fighter with his rendition of his inspirational ballad Lalaban Ako Para Sa Filipino. On his show Jimmy Kimmel Live the comedian sang an excerpt of the song, penned and recorded by Pacquiao to be his walk-out music for the richest fight of all time against Floyd Mayweather. Kimmel's appreciation of the song, an earnest work dedicated to Pacquiao's fellow Filipinos and with footage after the devastating Typhoon Haiyan in the video, appeared tongue in cheek. Manny Pacquiao wrote and recorded Lalaban Ako Para Sa Filipino for his walk-out music when he fights Floyd Mayweather and US talk show host Jimmel Kimmel has performed it on his live show. The Jimmy Kimmel Live crowd get into the piano ballad with some old-fashion hands in the air. Kimmel's sidekick Manuel sways to Kimmel also as he sings the song dedicated to the Filipino people. We are going to fight. I am going to fight to the world. Fight for your name. I am Filipino. We are Filipino. 'I humbly submit this for consideration at next year's Grammy Awards,' Kimmel said introducing a clip. 'I never heard a song that summed up my emotions so completely.' After singing a few lines, he said: 'That translated into England means "I'm gonna beat Floyd Mayweather's face in".' The boxer was nevertheless impressed, and a little amused. After Kimmel's effort sung in the Tagalog, a language spoken by about 57 million of the Philippines' more than 98 million people, went viral Pacman took to Twitter to thank the comedian for singing his song. Pacquiao's 80s-style music video includes a montage of the boxer's fights and his humanitarian efforts. Multi-talented Pacquiao  not only wrote and sang the touching tune but also directed the music video. 'Thank you Jimmy for singing my new album - it was good,' Pacquiao said laughing. 'You were practicing hard for that song. I am excited to be in your show next week. Thank you so much to all your support.' Pacquiao's song translates to English as 'I Will Fight For The Fillipino' and will be blasted through the MGM Grand Arena on May 2 before he bids to end Mayweather's 47-fight unbeaten run. Pacquiao saw the funny side of Kimmel's spoof of his tune and thanked him on Twitter and in a video. Pacquiao works up a sweat during his media workout at Wild Card Boxing gym on Wednesday. Pacquiao, here training with Freddie Roach, will appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live next week. Known as 'The Nation's Fist', devout Christian Pacquiao is also a politician, has appeared in nine films and has a noted soft side when it comes to his musical exploits in his home country. The likelihood Kimmel's viewers will hear the song as Pacquiao intended it next week is high given his was the first US talk show the boxer ever appeared on back in 2009. On that show he sang a rendition of Dan Hill's classic 1977 ballad Sometimes When We Touch. Pacquiao later released the song as a single in 2011 and it even made No 19 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary top 20 list.

US comedian Jimmy Kimmel sang Lalaban Ako in Tagalog on his show. Pacquiao thanked Kimmel for 'trying to sing my song' in a Twitter video. Jimmy Kimmel Live was the first US talk show the Filipino ever went on. Pacquiao fights Floyd Mayweather Jr in Las Vegas, Nevada, on May 2.

A British grandmother on death row in Bali for smuggling cocaine has condemned the execution of the Australian Bali Nine duo as 'senseless and brutal'. Lindsay Sandiford, 58, from Cheltenham, now fears she will be the next to face the firing squad and said she 'feels like giving up' and 'just wants to get it over with'. Australians Andrew Chan, 31, and Myuran Sukumaran, 33, were executed along with six other prisoners by an Indonesian firing squad. Scroll down for videos. Lindsay Sandiford, pictured, believes that she will be executed by the end of the year for smuggling drugs. She was sentenced to death after Indonesian police linked her to almost five kilograms of cocaine. One of ambulances carrying the bodies of Australian death-row prisoners Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran arrives at a funeral home in Jakarta, Indonesia. An ambulance carrying the coffin of one of eight executed drug convicts seen as it exits Nusakambangan port. Ambulances with the bodies of the eight men executed by Indonesia overnight, including Australians Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, were pictured arriving at Cilacap port from the prison island. The grandmother told a friend she was 'utterly heartbroken' at the news about Chan, who she had befriended in Bali's squalid Kerobokan prison. The Australian pair were the first to die in the latest round of executions after a final KFC bucket meal. She said: 'The men shot dead were reformed men – good men who transformed the lives of people around them. Their senseless, brutal deaths leave the world a poorer place.If they kill someone as good as Andrew, what hope is there for me? 'I just want to get it over with. I feel like just giving up.' Andrew Chan (right), who befriended Sandiford in prison, and Myuran Sukumaran (left) were killed by firing squad. At Cilacap port, anti-death penalty protesters began playing 'Hallelujah' just prior to news of the deaths. A group of Christians pray and hold a candlelight vigil to protest against the death penalty at Nusakambangan port. Sandiford says Chan – who was sentenced to death in 2005 for masterminding the so-called Bali Nine heroin smuggling plot – helped her cope in jail after she was given her death penalty two years ago. She said: 'I really admire Andrew. He's been an incredible help to me and he would be there for anyone who genuinely needed help inside the prison. 'The heart of the prison has gone since they left. They organised rehabilitation projects. If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't have running water on the blocks, or the classes in painting, cookery and computers. I would like to send my deepest condolences to their families and loved ones. 'Many things have been said about whether Andrew and Myuran deserved to die for their crimes. I didn’t know those men at the time they committed those crimes 10 years ago. What I can say is that the Andrew and Myuran I knew were men who did good and touched the lives of a great many people, including myself.' Chan – who turned to Christianity and was ordained in prison earlier this year – told Sandiford shortly before his transfer to Execution Island that he was reconciled to his fate. He said: 'I'm not afraid to die but I am afraid of dying. I'm scared of the bullets and I'm scared it won't be a quick death.' The Australian pair were killed by a firing squad on Bali's 'death island', Nusa Kambangan. Sandiford has been languishing on death row in Bali since being convicted of attempting to smuggle £1.6million of cocaine through the island's airport in 2012. She maintains she was forced to transport the drugs to protect her children, whose safety was at stake. The British government refused a request to pay Sandiford's legal fees for her appeal. The British grandmother said she 'really admired Andrew', who was executed by the firing squad. Reformed drug smugglers Andrew Chan (left) and Myuran Sukumaran (right) were put to death. Earlier ambulances carrying the corpses of Chan and Sukumaran arrived from the 'death island' where they were shot dead. The families of Chan and Sukumaran released a statement following the executions. 'Today we lost Myuran and Andrew. Our sons, our brothers,' they said. 'In the ten years since they were arrested, they did all they could to make amends, helping many others. They asked for mercy, but there was none. 'They were immensely grateful for all the support they received. We too, will be forever grateful.' The others executed were Indonesian Zainal Abidin, Brazilian Rodrigo Gularte, Nigerians Sylvester Obiekwe Nwolise, Raheem Agbaje Salami and Okwudili Oyatanze, and Ghanaian Martin Anderson. A law enforcement official was quoted saying: 'The executions went well, without any disruptions.' Armed police lined the road at Cilacap port as the ambulances carrying the coffins of the executed men were transported through a crowd. One of the lawyers for the Bali Nine drug traffickers took to Twitter shortly after their deaths were confirmed. He tweeted, 'I failed. I lost', which was followed by another message apologising for their deaths. Myuran Sukumaran's grief-stricken mother, Raji, pleads for her son's life as her husband Sam looks on. An Indonesian mobile brigade police team, believed to be an execution team, were photographed being taken on a boat to Nusakambangan island. A local television station broadcast a chilling re-enactment of how executions are carried out in Indonesi. In following through with the killings, the Indonesian government ignored agonised pleas for clemency from the prisoners' families and Australian and international officials. All eight death row prisoners refused to wear blindfolds, choosing instead to face their executioners. Mary Jane Fiesta Veloso - the Filipino drug mule who was the ninth convict sentenced to death - was spared after new information emerged about her case. As news filtered through to the nearby port of Cilacap, supporters prayed and sung 'Amazing Grace' Bali Nine supporters comfort each other at Cilacap after the harrowing news came through. 'Today we lost Myuran and Andrew. 'Our sons, our brothers. 'In the 10 years since they were arrested, they did all they could to make amends, helping many others. 'They asked for mercy, but there was none. 'They were immensely grateful for all the support they received. 'We too, will be forever grateful.' The Chan and Sukumaran families were staying together in a hotel in Cilacap when the murders occurred. Some relatives who were on the island reportedly heard the deadly shots ringing out and 'became hysterical'. A Twitter account purporting to belong to Chan's brother, Michael, tweeted: 'I have just lost a Courageous brother to a flawed Indonesian legal system. I miss you already RIP my Little Brother.' One of the pair's lawyers, Peter Morrissey, told the Nine Network: 'It's a very sad time.. the two boys are gone. 'They were beautiful blokes. It is really sad. 'We did have a good (legal) argument. We still have a good argument. We just don't have anything to (argue) it for. 'We'll all keep fighting the death penalty for sure but it's not going to bring the boys back.' One of the lawyers for the Bali Nine, Todung Mulya Lubis, saw the loss of the young Australian men as a personal failure. 'I failed. I lost,' he wrote on social media. 'I am sorry'. Mary Jane Fiesta Veloso (centre) survived - spared after her alleged recruiter turned herself in. Mary Jane Veloso's family appear relieved after arriving at Nusa Kambangan port in Cilacap after their loved one was spared at the 11th hour. As the executions occurred, at nearby Cilacap port anti-death penalty protesters lit white candles and sang 'Hallelujah' and just outside the gates. Later, a silence fell over the area with only singing voices, music of Amazing Grace and prayers heard for the doomed Bali Nine duo. The Australian government is expected to retaliate for Wednesday's executions, which Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Foreign Minister Julie Bishop had long lobbied against. Even in the final hours, officials were fighting the death penalty ruling. Indonesia has some of the toughest drug laws in the world. It ended a four-year moratorium on executions in 2013. The country, which has now carried out 15 such executions in four months, has vowed to kill all of its 58 foreign drug convicts by the end of the year.

Lindsay Sandiford fears she will be next to face the firing squad. Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran killed after a final KFC bucket meal. The 58-year-old has been on death row in Bali since 2012. She was convicted of attempting to smuggle £1.6million of cocaine in 2012.

A young woman on Reddit has shared a set of inspiring before and after images, which showcase how an exercise plan she began 20 months ago in an effort to lessen her depression has not only helped her mentally – but has also ensured a dramatic physical transformation. Aliesha Peterson, 22, detailed the extensive fitness routine that helped her go from 145lbs to 127lbs – and enabled the Alberta, Canada, resident to gain a noticeably fitter, and much more muscular, physique, as well as an impressive six-pack. 'I can honestly say I am sooo thankful I started taking better care of myself [sic],' she wrote under her Reddit name ahhhgodzilla. 'My progress has been fairly slow but, to me, the most important thing is that I didn't give up.' Scroll down for video. Impressive results: Aliesha Peterson, 22, first started exercising in August 2013, left; as of April 2015, right, she has lost nearly 20lbs and gained a six-pack. Aliesha wasn't always a fan of working out - and explained that she didn't start hitting the gym to look better in a bikini, either. 'I was extremely depressed and refusing to go back on anti-depressants,' she explained. 'I went and saw a therapist, and she recommended that I join a gym and start working out three times a week. 'I reluctantly obliged and to be completely honest, I absolutely hated it. 'I hated how uncomfortable I felt there, that I obviously had no idea what I was doing.' But after three months of sticking with it, she admitted that she started to 'somewhat enjoy it'. Aliesha's routine is made up of exercises that focus on a different part of her body for each day of the week, and she will often do cardio on the weekends. Her workouts include several sets of squats, bench presses, crunches, curls, and planks. On Wednesdays, she works on her back, which she said is her favorite part of her body. Her back exercises include deadlifts, hyperextensions, and chin ups. Bringing sexy back: The 22-year-old says her back is her favorite part of her body, and she focuses on exercises to strengthen it every Wednesday. 'Before' body: Aliesha, pictured here in 2013 before she started exercising, was by no means overweight, but she has since become more toned by sticking to a demanding workout schedule. After about six months, Aliesha started changing her eating habits, too. While she once stuck to an unhealthy diet which included fast food 'at least twice a day', she began cooking her own meals and choosing to eat healthy food. Now, her diet consists of eggs, yogurt, fruit, chicken, seeds and nuts, green smoothies made with vegetables, protein shakes, turkey, and salmon. Aliesha admits that her story isn't one of shocking rapid weight loss - but she says her slow progress is the reason she's been so successful. 'I'm sure if I completely changed my lifestyle all at once that my results would have been a lot more impressive in a much shorter amount of time, but it would not have been sustainable,' she wrote. Because she's worked at a slow, steady pace, she's been able to maintain her new figure - which has been a boon to her self-esteem. 'I am much more confident in my body,' she told Daily Mail Online. 'I no longer hate looking in the mirror and have learned to accept my flaws and am able to see the positive qualities I possess as well.' Barely-there biceps: In October 2013, pictured, Aliesha had only just started going to the gym to help her improve her depression. Welcome to the gun show: Pictured this month, Aliesha's arms have grown much more muscular; she says she now loves going to the gym. Of course, Aliesha added, it isn't always easy to maintain the motivation to work out five to seven days a week, but sticking to a routine has helped. 'I truly believe the key to bettering yourself is to cultivate and preserve healthy habits,' she continued. 'The first few months are the hardest, but once you make it through that stage it becomes a lot less painful, and you may even learn to enjoy it like I have.' She is also enjoying what working out has done for her mental health. 'While I still struggle with depression, it is much, much less severe,' she said. 'Instead of laying in bed all day crying, letting it consume me, I get up and do things - go to the gym, do yoga, walk my dogs, see friends. 'The best part of getting into this routine has definitely been the mental change,' she concluded. 'My friends and family have all noticed the difference, my relationships are stronger, I feel better about myself, and I'm constantly striving for self improvement.'

Aliesha Peterson, 22, from Canada, says a therapist recommended she start exercising to improve her depression. She writes on Reddit that after 'slow' progress for 20 months, she now sees an improvement in her mood and her body.

Reality TV star and singer Lil' Chris who died last month was found hanging at his home by a friend, the inquest into his death has been told. The 24-year-old pop star, whose real name was Chris Hardman, died on March 23 in his hometown of Lowestoft after a long battle with depression. Suffolk coroner Peter Dean today told the inquest that Mr Hardman's that friend AJ Sutton later identified the body. Scroll down for video. Suffolk coroner Peter Dean told an inquest into the death of signer Chris Hardman, aka Lil Chris (left and right), that a friend found his body hanged at his home in Lowestoft on March 23. He said that paramedics and police were called to his home in Union Road, Lowestoft, that morning and death was confirmed at 11.48am. He added: 'He had been found at his home by a friend. Emergency services were called but attempts at resuscitation failed.' In a previous statement Mr Hardman's family said he had been fighting a long battle with depression, and was determined to find a cure. Pathologist Richard Ball confirmed the cause of death as hanging. Dr Dean said: 'I would like to offer my thoughts and condolences to the family, friends and all those close to him for their loss.' Speaking soon after his death, Mr Hardman's family said he was 'a huge personality who will be missed by everyone who knew him'. In a statement, they added: 'Chris had struggled with mental health issues and depression in recent years. 'He was committed to helping others find better ways of overcoming this illness and publicly said he wished to find a cure. 'Despite this, his concern was always his family and his friends, whose happiness was his priority.' Mr Hardman shot to fame in Channel 4's Rock School after Kiss frontman Gene Simmons made him the lead singer of a student band. He was later offered a solo deal and went on to have a top five hit with Checkin' It Out in 2006. A previous statement by Mr Hardman's family described him as 'hugely creative', adding: 'If he wasn't bringing joy through music he was telling jokes or pulling pranks. 'He was the sunshine on a rainy day, and could make friends the minute he walked into a room, making everyone smile with his gorgeous, cheeky face. 'A real people person, he would always take the time to stop and talk, no matter who or when, and we are proud that he was so well thought of by all who knew him. Mr Hardman (pictured front) shot to fame after featuring on Kiss frontman Gene Simmons' show School of Rock, before landing a solo recording deal. Following news of Mr Hardman's death, Simmonds' posted this message of condolence, while McBusted singer Harry Judd described him as a 'little star. 'So many commented on what a lovely, well brought up person he was, so polite and kind and a pleasure to know.' Samaritans deputy chief executive Fiona Malcolm said: 'If anyone has been affected by this news, or is struggling to cope, we would like to let people know that Samaritans is here for them if they need to talk.' The inquest was opened and then adjourned until July 28.

Singer was found at home in Lowestoft on March 23 and pronounced dead. Friend AJ Sutton helped to identify the body, inquest into death was told. Pathologist who confirmed cause of death extended sympathies to family. Reality TV star had been struggling with depression and vowed to find cure. The Samaritans can be contacted by phone on 08457 909090, email jo@samaritans.org, or you can find the details of your local branch at www.samaritans.org.

The romantics will pick Sean Dyche or Ronald Koeman, the statistics lovers will go for Jose Mourinho or, at a push, Arsene Wenger. But for me there is one standout contender for manager of the year and that's Louis van Gaal. Think about what he walked into and what he was expected to achieve in a short space of time. You can only be impressed. The stricken patient was fading fast, but the Dutch doctor hasn't just stuck plasters over the wounds, he's breathed life into a giant and resurrected it back to rude health. Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal is among those in the running for manager of the year. United's players celebrate together during the derby win against rivals Manchester City. Wayne Rooney, Ashley Young and Juan Mata celebrate during the 4-2 win against City. Manuel Pellegrini is punching above his weight at City... the club MUST think big or forever remain small. Forget Eden Hazard and Michael Carrick... the best player in the Premier League this weekend was Leicester's Jamie Vardy. How stupid do some English football 'experts' look now? After the early-season defeats at MK Dons and Leicester City, they were laying into Van Gaal. They should have known better. When a manager as great as Van Gaal turns up in the Barclays Premier League, we should all be grateful to witness his genius at close quarters. So while he was busy trying to rectify the massive problems he inherited at Manchester United, there were too many who couldn't wait to hammer him for every single slip-up. And now they've all gone quiet as United cement their place in the top four. Job done – so far, at least. The critics will probably say he hasn't won anything. Listen, United were seventh last season, their defence was decimated in the summer, and this season the two big signings – Radamel Falcao and Angel di Maria – have, for different reasons, failed to hit the heights they achieved previously. Marouane Fellaini celebrates scoring in this brilliant photograph taken by Sportsmail snapper Ian Hodgson. Despite all of that, Van Gaal has taken United back to where they wanted to be – into the top four. In fact, it's mid-April and United are still in the title race (unlikely, but they're just a point behind Arsenal so of course they're still in it). Sunday's derby victory was utterly convincing. And it highlighted one of the biggest strengths of Van Gaal's reign at United so far – the way he has worked with and improved individual players. All of a sudden Ashley Young looks brilliant – it wasn't just Sunday, he's been arguably United's best player this season. How many managers could have made Young look convincing in a United shirt? At the start of the season I was asking the question about Chris Smalling and Phil Jones – could they make the centre-half spots their own? I think that question is still pertinent, but those two played very well against City and are starting to look the part in the Old Trafford back four. Players once moaned about, such as Fellaini and Young, are now pivotal parts of the team under Van Gaal. Van Gaal’s belief in the value of repetition has worked and players like Young and Fellaini have benefited. Michael Carrick looks indispensible again, when even I was doubting if he would recover from the David Moyes debacle. And who knew Marouane Fellaini could be so influential for Manchester United? Even Van Gaal's decision to give Wayne Rooney the captaincy looks inspired. He's had a brilliant season and he's led the United resurgence on the field superbly. Impressive stuff, so all the critics need to calm down and pay a bit more respect to Van Gaal, he deserved a better reception from the English football public based on his career record alone. A little more than a year ago Manchester United were humiliated at home by City. Van Gaal has single-handedly raised the sinking ship back to the surface, steadied it, and got it sailing full steam ahead. He just needs to add a bit of polish next season. Angel di Maria (third right) and Radamel Falcao (right) were left out of the starting XI by Van Gaal on Sunday. Van Gaal shakes hands with his opposite number Manuel Pellegrini after the final whistle at Old Trafford.

Manchester United 4-2 Manchester City: Click here for the match report. Louis van Gaal is in with a shout of winning manager of the year. Chelsea's Jose Mourinho and Southampton's Ronald Koeman are too. Sean Dyche could be in if he saves Burnley from relegation. ADRIAN DURHAM: Man City must think big or forever remain small.

Tottenham are tracking Dynamo Kiev forward Andriy Yarmolenko as they step up their summer transfer plans. Mauricio Pochettino has admitted his scouts are already working behind the scenes on finalising the club's targets ahead of next season. And Ukrainian forward Yarmolenko is emerging as a realistic target for the White Hart Lane club. Tottenham are eyeing a move for Dynamo Kiev's Andriy Yarmolenko, eluding Fiorentina's Marcos Alonso. Paris St-Germain are also watching the Ukrainian star but Spurs scouts have tracked him this season. Tottenham have watched the 25-year-old extensively in recent weeks ahead of a potential summer swoop. Spurs believe they can land Yarmolenko for a reasonable price given he is entering the final year of his contract. However, the versatile forward has also been watched by Paris Saint-Germain who could offer Kiev and the player a more lucrative deal. Tottenham are also keen on Everton winger Kevin Mirallas. Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is already looking at targets to improve his squad this summer. Everton forward Kevin Mirallas is also on the White Hart Lane radar, celebrating against Burnley.

Spurs tracking Dynamo forward Andriy Yarmolenko. Tottenham scouts have watched the Ukrainian star in recent weeks. PSG also interested in signing Yarmolenko. Kevin Mirallas also on Tottenham's radar. CLICK HERE for all the latest Tottenham Hotspur news.

Children are known to copy the actions of their parents. And one adorable little girl has mastered a brilliant impression of her pregnant mother. Captured in a 15-second clip, the youngster emulates the way her pregnant mother walks - and the result is hilarious. The 15-month-old girl arches her back and pushes out her belly while strutting around the room. The youngster pulls a cheeky face while her father also mimics the mum's pregnant walk in the background. The clip begins with mum, American Teri O'Neil, 30, asking 15-month-old Olivia: ‘How does mama walk?’ while filming at her home. Suddenly the youngster appears from the side of the shot and with her back bent and tummy pushed forward she struts past. She pulls a cheeky face as she continues around the room – in the background her father can be seen emulating the walk with her. The video concludes with Olivia briefly interacting with the dog, who jumps out of the way, and walking towards the camera with a beaming smile. According to Teri, she recorded the video when she was six months pregnant with her son Liam. The mother of two writes about her children on her blog and has documented everything from their birth stories to the everyday things they get up to. She also uploads numerous videos to her YouTube channel, which shows the youngsters taking their first steps and of course, imitating her. The young girl briefly interacts with the dog before turning towards the camera with a big smile on her face.

Teri O'Neil, 30, filmed her daughter when she was six-months pregnant. The youngster pulls a cheeky face and struts about the room with dad. 15-month-old Olivia is delighted with her impression.

Just like humans learning to talk, puppies can sometimes take a while to learn to bark. At least, that seemed to be the case for one young Shibu Inu, who caused hilarity with a somewhat chatty display at an American Kennel Club centre. The pup was filmed squeaking and squawking after meeting a young husky dog and attempting to bark at its new companion. Captured on video, the puppies are held in the air by their respective handlers and one of the dogs makes a high-pitched whining sound. Opening its mouth, the Shibu Inu then begins vocalising with a yappy bark before the husky – leaning back in its handler’s arm – whines. People standing by laugh and put their hands to their mouths as a staff member turns to address and pacify the dog. The puppy Shibu Inu and husky feature opposite one another while conversing at an American Kennel Club centre. Falling quiet for a second, the Shibu Inu pipes up once more – louder than before – causing the husky to respond. As the dogs continue to converse, the video maker asks with a giggle: ‘What is that noise?’ But it is barely audible over the sounds of the intense barking, whining and yapping. Later in the video the excited Shibu Inu begins running in its owner's arms in its attempts to get closer to the husky. Passers-by laugh and film the two dogs as they begin yapping, whining and barking at one another. And people in the video can be seen laughing while mimicking the dog’s erratic and entirely humorous actions. The video concludes with the husky losing interest slightly and chewing on its handler’s sleeve. Before the same handler speaks to the Shibu Inu and gives it a rub, causing it to momentarily settle down. A staff member from the American Kennel Club centre attempts to pacify the puppy by giving it a rub. Canine vocalisation usually begins when a puppy is around two-to-three-weeks-old and generally consists of grunts and whines. At seven-to-eight-weeks-old, the vocalisation will develop into stronger sounding barks, although some dogs wait as long as 16 weeks before even making an attempt.

The Shibu Inu puppy has the impromptu chat with a husky. Begins vocalising with a yappy bark while the husky whines. American Kennel Club staff try to pacify the excited Shibu Inu. Shibu Inu runs in the air in an attempt to get closer to Husky.

Michael Bisping admitted he had expected an easier fight after beating CB Dollaway on points in Montreal. The Manchester middleweight was in action for the first time since losing to Luke Rockhold last year. And he said he was disappointed not to have enjoyed an early night. Michael Bisping (left) lands a kick to the head of CB Dollaway during their UFC 186 fight in Montreal. Dollaway (left) puts Manchester's Bisping on the canvas during their middleweight clash on Saturday. Bisping (left) shows his delight after winning a unanimous points decision over the American. 'That win was for my son Callum, who is celebrating his 14th birthday,' Bisping said. 'CB was a dangerous opponent. He proved to be a lot tougher than I expected. 'He was good on his feet and had some power in his punches. I was able to stuff his takedowns pretty easy but there is a reason he's a top 10 fighter. 'My ego is a little bruised that I didn't get a finish and didn't put on my best performance but Im happy with the win.' Bisping did well to recover from being floored in the first round by a left hook to finish the session on top. Both men traded blows in the second before Dollaway successfully completed a takedown just before the bell. Dolloway throws a big left at Bisping's head as the Brit endures a much tougher night than he expected. Bisping got the decision after finishing the stronger of the pair and landing the more telling blows late on. It was Bisping who finished the stronger, however, preventing another takedown and landing the more telling blows in the final round. All three judges gave him the nod by a score of 29-28. Bisping also confirmed he would relish a UK return on July 18 in Glasgow. 'It's been too long since I fought in the UK so if there is space on the 'It's been too long since I fought in the UK so if there is space on the Glasgow card and someone in the top 10, put me on it,' he added.

Michael Bisping beating CB Dollaway on points in Montreal during UFC 186. Manchester's Bisping was given the nod 29-28 by all three of the judges. Bisping said after the fight that Dolloway was tougher than he anticipated.

A mother-of-four whose addiction to Red Bull saw her drinking 24 cans of a day claims she has been cured of her habit by hypnosis. Sarah Weatherill, 31, became so dependent on the energy drink she was told if she cut down too quickly she could suffer a seizure as her body was so used to the caffeine. The law student spent a staggering £5,460 every year on the popular energy drink since she became hooked in 2009. Scroll down for video. Sarah Weatherill, 31, was so addicted to Red Bull she drank 24 cans a day leaving her lethargic, depressed, suffering heart palpitations and constantly anxious. Her habit was at its worst the following year when she was studying for a law degree and wanted to stay awake to revise for exams. She soon became dependent on the drink and couldn't get out of bed unless she knew she had some in the fridge. She also became lethargic, depressed, had heart palpitations and was constantly feeling anxious as her £105-a-week habit spiralled out of control. She finally decided to do something about the problem after she realised the constant need for the Red Bull was severely damaging her health. And after seeing hypnotherapist earlier this month, she claims she has been cured of her addiction thanks to just one 50-minute session. Her habit had been so dangerous she needed to cut down to eight cans a day in the run up to the hypnosis - as coming off so much caffeine abruptly could have caused a seizure. A 250ml can of Red Bull contains:. 80mg of caffeine - the same amount as in an espresso. 27.5g sucrose and glucose combined - the equivalent of almost seven teaspoons of sugar. 10g Taurine (an amino acid that is thought to boost athletic performance). B vitamins. Ms Weatherill's 24-a-day habit meant she was drinking 1.92g of caffeine every day. A 2005 study into caffeine-related deaths said a person would need to ingest 5g to overdose, suggesting she was taking nearly half the potentially lethal dose. Ms Weatherill, from Coventry, said: 'I was studying for a Higher National Certificate in law in 2005 and used to have the odd Red Bull for a pick me up. 'It is hard to say when it became every day but I remember that by 2009 I was definitely hooked. 'Whenever I felt tired having a Red Bull would be the first thing I would do. 'It was worst in 2010 when I was doing law exams at university and my children were off school. 'Sometimes I would have exams day after day - and with the stress of revising I was having 24 cans a day. 'I was pulling all-nighters and using the drinks to stay awake. In the end, it got to the point where I just needed Red Bull to function. 'I used to get my shopping delivered and used to have four or five crates and that only lasted for a week - it got out of hand. 'There would be times when I would get palpitations and shakes but I think I just got used to the caffeine.' Red Bull - whose slogan says the drink 'gives you wings' - is made by an Austrian company and is the highest selling energy drink in the world. Miss Weatherill claims she was cured of her addiction in one 50 minutes hypnotherapy session with David Kilmurry (pictured right) This table shows a range of drinks in order of caffeine content and their relation to daily allowances. Ms Weatherill was drinking 1.92g of caffeine every day, way above the recommended limit of 400 mg. The drink has been branded safe by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and more than five billion cans were sold in 2013. However, it has been criticised for its high caffeine levels with one 250ml can containing 80mg, similar to one cup of coffee. Ms Weatherill's 24-a-day habit meant she was drinking 1.92g of the drug every day. A 2005 study into caffeine-related deaths said a person would need to ingest 5g to overdose, suggesting she was taking nearly half of a lethal dose. But, incredibly, she claims she was completely cured of her addiction after a single session with cognitive behavioral hypnotherapist David Kilmurry on April 11. Ms Weatherill, who lives with boyfriend Phil Evans, 27, and four children aged between three and 14, added: 'I knew at the start of this year it was a dependency so thought I would give hypnotherapy a go. 'It was a weird process, I felt like I was in there for 15 minutes but it was 50 minutes. 'All I can remember is that it was like a kaleidoscope effect, I remember him saying I didn't need Red Bull.' 'I am convinced I won't have another can. I feel like a different person,' Ms Weatherill said after undergoing hypnotherapy to cure her of her energy drink habit. She added: 'It was like a paralysis because I had an itch, but couldn't move to scratch it. 'It gave me a lot of strength because in the past I have tried to give up but lasted a week and then gone back to the Red Bull. 'I am convinced I won't have another can. I feel like a different person.' Hypnotherapist Mr Kilmurry added: 'Sarah's addiction was very serious. 'Coming off that amount of caffeine and taurine can lead to seizures, so she gradually reduced her intake before coming to me to make a safe escape. 'Energy drink addicts can also suffer insomnia, depression, anxiety and heart palpitations. 'Luckily Sarah soldiered through and has been amazed at the changes.'

Sarah Weatherill, 31, spent £5, 460 every year on the popular energy drink. Her 24-a-day habit left her lethargic, depressed and with heart palpitations. If she cut down too quickly she was told she risked suffering a seizure. Claims her addiction was cured by one 50 minute hypnosis session.

Former Chelsea star Michael Essien's £75,000 Range Rover Vogue has been stolen from the driveway of his Surrey home. Burglars targeted the property, in Cobham where Chelsea's training ground is based, and made off with the 4x4. Ghana midfielder Essien, 32, left the Blues for Italian club AC Milan in January 2014 but still owns the property purchased during his time at Stamford Bridge. Former Chelsea midfielder Essien had a Range Rover Vogue stolen from outside his property in Surrey. The road in Cobham, Surrey, where luxury cars were stolen from in an early morning raid. Essien left Chelsea to join AC Milan in January 2014 after eight successful seasons at Stamford Bridge. Two other vehicles, a Mercedes and a BMW, were stolen from a neighbour on the same day. A spokesman for Surrey Police told Sportsmail: 'On Tuesday, 7 April, Surrey Police received reports that three vehicles were stolen from two different addresses in Cobham in the early hours of the morning. 'A Range Rover Vogue was stolen from the driveway of one property while a Mercedes and a BMW were stolen following a burglary at another address. 'Officers have carried out a number of enquiries including extensive house-to-house in the local area and the investigation remains ongoing at this time.' Essien kept the property nearly Chelsea's training base in Cobham after leaving for Milan. A Range Rover Vogue, similar to the one that was stolen from Essien's house in Cobham. Essien joined Chelsea during the first Jose Mourinho era in 2005 and made a total of 256 appearances for the club, scoring 25 times. He won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, the League Cup and the Champions League during his eight seasons with them. After spending the 2012-13 season on loan at Real Madrid in Spain, Essien moved to Milan on a 17-month deal in 2014.

Range Rover Vogue was stolen from Surrey property belonging to former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien. Burglars stole the £75,000 4x4 in early morning raid. A neighbour had a Mercedes and BMW stolen on same day. Ghana international Essien left Chelsea for Milan in January 2014.

When Fiorentina's season ends next month, Micah Richards won't be jetting off on his summer holidays. For the moment, summer is cancelled for the defender - at least until he knows where he'll be playing next season. His contract at Manchester City expires at the end of the season, when he becomes a free agent. The next few months will be vital in determining whether Richards can resurrect his once burgeoning career. Micah Richards has found playing time hard to come by during his loan move to Italian side Fiorentina. Richards joined the Serie A side after being frozen out at City - and will be on the move again this summer. He knows it, too, choosing to delay any holidays until his next destination is finalised. Likewise, he's taken the decision to change representation, striking an agreement with Wasserman Media Group - the firm that look after Steven Gerrard. His season-long loan in Florence hasn't been a disaster, but you can hardly call it an overwhelming success. Unable to hold down a regular place in Vincenzo Montella's starting XI this season, Richards has had ample time to reflect on his career so far. Tipped as the future of England's defence, Richards' career has been on steady decline. But at the age of 26-year-old, there's time for Richards to buck that recent trend. Richards celebrates with Yaya Toure and Gael Clichy at his boyhood club, where his contract ends this year. Ricahrds is set on a return to the Premier League, shown here in 2011 skipping past Arsenal's Gervinho. He's enjoyed his time in Italy; he likes the lifestyle. But the defender is almost certain that he wants to return to the Premier League ahead of next season. Inter Milan manager Roberto Mancini would sign Richards in a heartbeat. He tried, and failed, to sign him on loan in January. The possibility of a permanent reunion with Mancini, who nurtured Richards' career at Manchester City, this summer is a real one for the defender. But the drive to prove he can still be a force in England is strong. Richards has unfinished business on these shores. Richards will not be short of suitors. Aston Villa, Southampton, Everton and West Ham are showing an interest. On paper, a move for Richards this summer is a no brainer. A Premier League winner, close to 200 top-flight appearances under his belt, still only 26 and available on a free transfer. The Birmingham-born 26 year old was England's first choice right-back as a youngster. You don't get many of those to the pound. The pound, though, isn't something Richards will be too concerned with this summer. Talk to those close to the defender, they'll tell you he simply wants to get back to playing regular football - not once every two or three weeks. Richards, who is currently nursing a slight ankle injury, wants to be a mainstay at his next club - and that will be the determining factor when he makes his decision. His versatility is also likely to be a major selling point. We know Richards as a right-back - but he's developed a penchant for playing as a central defender in recent seasons. Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood is willing to offer the former England man a place at the heart of his defence. And it is at centre-back where Richards sees his long-term career. Sportsmail understands Tim Sherwood would be willing to offer Richards a slot in the heart of his defence next season in an attempt to lure him to Villa Park. But, more than anything else, Richards knows he has to play. Prestige will have nothing to do with his next move. If offered the chance of playing a peripheral role for a high-profile club or a regular position elsewhere, he'll choose the latter. The sooner he makes his decision, the sooner he can get on with booking his summer holidays.

Micah Richards' Manchester City contract ends this summer. Currently on loan at Fiorentina, Richards wants a return to England. Was one of English football's golden boys as a youngster. Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood willing to snap him up on a free.

A state prosecutor in Detroit made the ill-advised suggestion that Baltimore police should respond to protests gripping the city by shooting everyone involved. Teana Walsh, who is paid by Michigan taxpayers to pursue justice, wrote an unhinged post on her Facebook urging a deadly response to violence in the troubled Maryland city. Walsh an assistant prosecutor in Wayne County, which includes Detroit, aired her point of view late Monday night, Fox2 Detroit reported. Scroll down for video. Controversial: Teana Walsh, pictured above plying her trade in court, made the objectionable post. Kill 'em all: Teana Walsh, an assistant prosecutor in Detroit, Michigan, posted the above to Facebook. 'Flipping disgusting'? Walsh suggested deadly force should be used against the violent protesters. She said: 'So I am watching the news in Baltimore and see large swarms of people throwing bricks, etc at police who are fleeing from their assaults ... 15 in the hospital already. 'Solution. Simple. Shoot 'em. Period. End of discussion. 'I don't care what causes the protestors to turn violent...what the "they did it because" reason is... no way is this acceptable. Flipping disgusting.' At least 15 people voiced their approval by 'liking' the comment. She later changed her mind about the post and deleted it - but not before enraged local attorneys recorded and shared the post. Regret? Walsh delete the post after seeing the riots in Baltimore, Maryland, on television. Anger: Walsh said that seeing protesters throwing rocks led her to the conclusion they should be shot. The outrage prompted Walsh's bosses to issue a statement defending her, claiming the post was 'completely out of character'. It said: 'APA Teana Walsh is known for her great work ethic and her compassion for victims of crime and their families. Her post was up on line briefly and she immediately took it down. 'The post was completely out of character for her and certainly does not reflect the person that we know.'

Teana Walsh, assistant prosecutor in Wayne County, Michigan, wrote Facebook post. Said she watched violent rioters in Baltimore and found them 'disgusting' Suggested that shooting them was the only solution - then deleted post. Her bosses were forced to issue statement defending her.

Former Treasurer Peter Costello has fired a damaging salvo at the Abbott government just weeks out from its second budget, describing its approach to taxation as a 'morbid joke'. Ever since the government released his tax discussion paper calling for a 'lower, simpler, fairer' system there has been nothing but suggestions for taxes that are higher, more complicated and less economic, the former Liberal treasurer in an opinion piece in the Daily Telegraph. 'Lower, simpler, fairer is looking like a morbid joke,' Mr Costello said on Tuesday, citing a proposed bank deposit tax and a push for a greater contribution from multinational companies. Peter Costello slammed the Abbott government, describing its approach to taxation as a 'morbid joke' Treasurer Joe Hockey was not impressed with the Costello critique, lamenting the fact his Liberal predecessor had more tax revenue to use during the Howard government years. 'The government needs to restart the conversation about getting taxes down, not up.' He also slams Labor and the Greens, saying using the tax system to re-distribute income would trap Australians in poverty. 'The tax system is there to raise government revenue at the lowest cost in the most efficient way doing the least damage to the economy.' Treasurer Joe Hockey was not impressed with the Costello critique, lamenting the fact his Liberal predecessor had more tax revenue to use during the Howard government years. 'If I had the same revenue as he had, then I'd be getting $25 billion extra each year to spend on things,' he told Sky News from New York, pointing to the abolition of the carbon and mining taxes. 'Everyone's entitled to give free advice and frankly, that's what it's worth - it's free advice. The Abbott government is due to deliver its second budget on May 12. Assistant Treasurer Josh Frydenberg praised Mr Costello as a 'very distinguished' former treasurer, but said the government had reduced the overall tax take and a small business tax cut was on its way. 'I would suggest that people stop looking back to what it was and focus on the challenges of today and tomorrow, no matter who they are.' Assistant Treasurer Josh Frydenberg praised Mr Costello as a 'very distinguished' former treasurer, but said the government had reduced the overall tax take and a small business tax cut was on its way. The coalition was also having to deal with lower commodity prices than the Howard government enjoyed, he told ABC radio. In an opinion piece, Fairfax economics editor Peter Martin argued that Hockey had inherited economic problems created by superannuation changes Costello introduced when he was treasurer. Mr Martin labelled 2006 budget changes which saw super payouts become tax free for the majority of Australians aged over 60 as 'stupid' and 'expensive'. He quoted economist Saul Eslake who labelled the change 'one of the worst taxation policy decisions of the past 20 years'.

Peter Costello slammed government pledge for 'lower, simpler, fairer' taxes. The former treasurer singled out Joe Hockey's proposed new bank tax and Josh Frydenberg's push for revenue from multinationals. Mr Hockey hit back at Mr Costello, saying he wished he had the tax revenue the former treasurer had when the Coalition was last in power.

Manchester United scouts checked on Porto striker Jackson Martinez last week. The 28-year-old wants to leave Portugal this summer and his club will listen to offers of around £30million. The Colombia international came close to joining AC Milan in January but the club failed to agree a fee. Manchester United scouts checked on £30million-rated Porto striker Jackson Martinez last week. Martinez (right) scored as Porto beat Bayern Munich 3-1 in their Champions League quarter-final first leg. Martinez was outstanding against Bayern Munich in Porto's Champions League semi final first leg victory scoring in their 3-1 triumph. It was his 23rd goal in 31 games this season. United are looking to add two strikers this summer. Burnley's Danny Ings remains an option, as reported by Sportsmail last month, and they have considered Edinson Cavani who is also a firm target for Juventus. However, Paris Saint-Germain are reluctant to sell Cavani. Aston Villa's Christian Benteke has been discussed but no approach has yet been made. Chelsea, Tottenham and Everton also sent scouts to watch Porto and Bayern last Wednesday while Manchester City and Juventus scouts were there to watch Alex Sandro, the Porto left-back. Aston Villa's Christian Benteke (centre) has been discussed by United as they look to strengthen in attack.

FC Porto star Jackson Martinez came close to joining AC Milan in January. 28-year-old scored in their Champions League 3-1 quarter-final first leg win over Bayern Munich. Martinez's goal against Bayern was his 23rd strike in 31 games this season.

The boss of supermarket Sainsbury's has been sentenced in his absence to two years in Egyptian jail over the company's disastrous venture into the Middle East 16 years ago. Chief executive Mike Coupe, 53, was convicted of embezzlement last September after former Sansbury's business partner Amr el-Nasharty accused him of trying to illegally seize cheques. Now a court has sentenced him to two years behind bars for the crime, which relates to Sainbury's joint venture with local supermarket chain Edge, owned by Mr el-Nasharty. Mike Coupe, chief executive of Sainsbury's, has been sentenced to two years in an Egyptian jail after a former business partner of the British supermarket claimed Mr Coupe tried to seize money from him. Mr Coupe is believed to have travelled to the Middle Eastern country last Sunday to appeal the conviction, which dates back to a time when he didn't work at the firm, but this was unsuccessful, reports The Times. In 1999, Sainsbury's, then under the stewardship of David Bremner, opened its first store in Cairo, hoping to capitalise on a growing Arabic middle class which was still largely reliant on corner shops for their groceries. Sainsbury's opened its first store in Egypt in Cario in 1999, hoping to capitalise on a growing middle class that were still largely reliant on corner shops for groceries. The company initially spent £10million on 25 per cent share in local firm Edge, owned by businessman Amr el-Nasharty. Six months later they spent another £40million buying an 80 per cent share, and by 2001 had built 100 stores, employing more than 2,500 staff. But, during a Palestinian uprising in the region, Sainbury's found itself added to a 'boycott list' of largely American companies accused of having ties with Israel. It was believed at the time that this could have been the result of shopkeepers fearing for their business who asked local Imams to preach against the chain. This lead to stores being attacked by rioters armed with bricks and bats. When Sainsbury's eventually withdrew from Egypt in 2001, losing £110million, the company blamed a 'deterioration of the trading environment', widely believed to be a reference to the fatwa. Over the course of three years, the company invested nearly £100million opening more than 100 stores across the country, employing 2,500 staff. Despite raking in sales of almost £80million by 2001, the business made an overall loss of almost £35million, due in part to being placed on a religious boycott list over alleged links with Israel. Sainsbury's quit Egypt later that year, losing almost £110million in the process, and selling the business back to Mr el-Nasharty. However, he then filed a suit against Sainsbury's, claiming they had sold him an insolvent business with large tax debts which he could not repay. Sainsbury's countered this claim, alleging that Mr el-Nasharty had paid for the business with cheques that later bounced. Mr el-Nasharty then went on to claim that Mr Coupe travelled to Egypt shortly after being appointed CEO last July and attempted to seize money from him, breaching Egypt's bankruptcy laws. Mr Coupe was automatically convicted of the charge last September after 'failing to attend court hearings', though a spokesman for Sainsbury's said the business was not told these were taking place. The spokesman added that Mr Coupe denies all the allegations against him, which they say has 'nothing to do with Mr Coupe'. Mr Coupe was born in Watford in 1960, the son of a housewife and inventor father who founded his own medical company, he was brought up in West Sussex. He then went on to study physics at Birmingham University before 'stumbling' into supermarket management via a graduate training scheme. He began his career at super-brand Unilever before moving on to Tesco, and then Asda where he was the boss of Justin King, the former Sainsbury's CEO who he succeeded. He was appointed CEO of Sainsbury's last July on an estimated £900,000 salary. He currently lives in a £1million terraced house in York with Jill, his wife of 22 years, and their two daughters. A statement issued by the company said: 'We strongly refute the legal case in Egypt brought against our chief executive Mike Coupe. 'This relates to a historic commercial dispute in which Mr Coupe had no involvement. 'Mike was not even employed by Sainsbury's at the time of the original business deal in 2001 which gave rise to these legal proceedings and has never met the complainant Mr el-Nasharty. Sainsbury's went into business with Amr el-Nasharty in 1999, eventually purchasing 80 per cent of chain Edge in order to open 100 supermarkets across Egypt, with the first being built in Cario (pictured) In 2001 the British chain withdrew from the loss-making Middle Eastern market, selling its shares back to Mr el-Nasharty, who complained the business was insolvent, beginning a 16-year legal fight. 'Mr el-Nasharty has consistently made false claims against Sainsbury's and individuals within the business over the years, all of which have been unsuccessful. 'When Mr el-Nasharty bought the Egyptian business back from us in 2001, he paid us with cheques that bounced. Mr el-Nasharty is now claiming that Mike Coupe was in Egypt in July 2014 and tried to seize these cheques. This is clearly ridiculous. 'Mike Coupe was in London carrying out his normal duties that day. Mike Coupe was tried in absentia by an Egyptian court, without prior notice that he needed to attend, and we are contesting these groundless allegations.' Sainsbury's added that the case was being handled by its legal team and said: 'We do not anticipate it having any material operational or financial impact on the company.' The Times said Mr el-Nasharty had declined to comment. Sainsbury's, the UK's third biggest supermarket, is due to report full-year results next week.

Sainsbury's CEO Mike Coupe handed two year jail term by Egyptian court. Embezzlement claim was brought by former Sainsbury's business partner. Businessman Amr el-Nasharty helped to launch chain in Egypt in 1999. However venture fell apart and chain left Middle East with losses of £110m. Mr el-Nasharty claims Mr Coupe tried to seize cheques from him last July. Sainsbury's supermarket strongly refutes all the claims against it.

Legendary Barcelona captain Carles Puyol is believed to be training with a view to ending his retirement from football for a lucrative end-of-career spell in Qatar or the United States. Puyol won six La Liga titles and enjoyed three Champions League wins at Barca and is considered to be one of the finest defenders of his generation having been named in UEFA's European team of the year six times across a trophy-laden career. The 36-year-old retired last May after 15 years at his boyhood club having struggled to return from a persistent knee injury, but now reports claim he could be set for a return to playing with New York City or Al-Sadd after returning to training. Barcelona legend Carles Puyol is said to be training ahead of a return to playing in either the US or Qatar. The 36-year-old retired last May after struggling to return from a persistent knee injury that had troubled him. If the reports from Spanish paper Mundo Deportivo prove true, Puyol could join up with Manchester City midfielder Frank Lampard in the States or with his former long-term team-mate Xavi, who is expected to move to Qatar with Al-Sadd. The curly-haired centre back had hinted on his retirement that he would consider a return to the game had it not been for the knee injury that plagued the tail-end of his career. 'I don't think I'll be a coach, it's not what I'd like most,' Puyol said in May. 'Maybe I'll change my mind but for now I want to do other things.' Puyol, seen here with Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar al-Baker, could move to the Middle East. Xavi, Puyol's former team-mate, is said to considering a move to Al-Sadd and Puyol could join him there. David Villa is now playing for New York City. Frank Lampard will join him soon and Puyol could be next. The former Barca skipper was named as the club's assistant director of football but he left that role in January when Andoni Zubizarreta, his senior, was fired. Xavi visited Qatar in the last international break ahead of a rumoured move at the end of his Barcelona contract which would see the midfield metronome earn around £7million-a-year, and Puyol could choose a similar route. Alternatively, a New York move would see Puyol join the City Football Group alongside Chelsea legend Lampard and another former team-mate of Puyol's, David Villa.

Former Barcelona centre back Carles Puyol retired in May last year. But he could now be in line for a return with New York City or Al-Sadd. Puyol is reported to be training ahead of a comeback from retirement.

A film-mad woman got her picture perfect proposal when her fiancé proposed to her on the big screen of a cinema. Fabio Lovato, 30, created a short video that played following the cinema trailers for Fast and Furious 7 showcasing pictures from where they met in Australia. The one minute and 30 second video ended with a picture of the couple and the words, 'Laura I have a questions for you'. Scroll down for video. Fabio Lavato proposed to his girlfriend Laura Knight in their local Cineworld in Gloucester. Fabio then got down on one knee in the Cineworld in Gloucester and popped the question to his shocked girlfriend Laura Knight, 29. Italian-born Fabio, who now lives in Quedgeley, Gloucester with Laura, says that he always knew he wanted to marry Laura. He said: 'It was love at first sight for me. I always knew she was the one and I wanted to make sure the proposal was extra special. 'Lots of people propose at restaurants so I just thought it would be great to do it at the cinema where a video could be played on the screen and she would be completely surprised. Fabio created a video showcasing pictures of their time together followed by the words 'Laura I have a question for you' that was played at the end of the trailers of Fast and Furious 7. The film included pictures from their time together in Australia, 2013, where the couple met. 'It was absolutely amazing and I am so glad she said yes.' The pair met while Laura was backpacking around Asia, ending up in Australia, and Fabio was working in the country. Laura says she had no idea that Fabio was planning to propose - especially not in the cinema. She said: 'The trailers finished and these pictures of Australia started to play. 'I thought it must be an advert at first but the song was one we were introduced to over in Australia and it is not well known over here - they wouldn't have used it on an advert.' Pretty soon Laura, a deputy manager at a dental practice, clicked that there was something suspicious about the 'advert'. Fabio has lived with Laura, pictured together, in Quedgeley, Gloucester, since last year. The pair are both big film fans so the cinema acted as the perfect location for the proposal. 'The pictures kept playing and I began thinking to myself they looked familiar. 'The next thing I know it was a giant picture of myself and then a picture of us as a couple. 'That's when I thought "oh my God" - I was over whelmed. He got on one knee and everyone started clapping.' Fabio, a hospital record clerk, had been planning the event for two months, talking to Laura's parents, the cinema, friends and colleagues. The proposal took meticulous planning with Fabio waiting until he was alone to make the film so that Laura wouldn't notice. Despite the pair being massive film buffs Laura was too excited to stay and watch the rest of the film, but says it was the perfect proposal. Although Laura loved the proposal she says she doesn't rate Fast and Furious. 'I thought it was amazing. I have a love for films myself. We share that, both having a passion for films. 'For him to do it like that meant a lot. Although it wasn't personal in terms of people being there, it was personal to me, because of the way he did it.' Although Laura was completely overjoyed by the proposal she admits that Fabio's choice of film was questionable. 'The fact that the cinema let us do it was amazing. There is no connection to the film though really, it was just what was showing at the time. 'I wouldn't rate Fast And Furious in my top 10. It was a big film though and completely sold out. 'I'm glad it wasn't Cinderella because it would have just been children. Luckily, no popcorn came my way.' The couple are now in the process of planning their wedding, although no date has been set.

Fabio Lavato popped the question to Laura Knight at their local Cineworld. He created a proposal video that was played at the end of the trailers. Laura said yes and was too excited to watch the rest of the film.

Counter-terrorism police have searched a community centre and a man's home as part of the investigation into the killing of a Syrian imam found shot dead on a London street. Officers searched the An Noor community centre in west London last night after a businessman appeared in court charged with murdering Abdul Hadi Arwani, and another man was arrested over his death. They also visited the Wembley home of Burnell Mitchell, 61, who is a director at the community centre where Mr Arwani used to preach. Death: Leslie Cooper, left, has appeared in court charged with murdering iman Abdul Hadi Arwani, right. Search: Police visited the Wembley home of Burnell Mitchell, a director of the community centre where Mr Arwani used to preach regularly. Home: Mr Mitchell has scaffolding outside his two-bedroom property in Wembley. Last night the Metropolitan Police revealed that they had arrested a 61-year-old man on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder, after Leslie Cooper, 36 appeared at Camberwell Magistrates' Court yesterday. Officers visited An Noor, in Acton, to search for further clues in the killing of Mr Arwani, 48, who was an outspoken opponent of the Assad regime in his native country. The other address searched by police yesterday was Mr Mitchell's home in Wembley, which was cordoned off as police investigated the property. The 61-year-old, who is said to be a Muslim convert from Jamaica, is a trustee of An Noor and a director of the company which owns the site of the building. Neighbours said that Mr Mitchell, who is known as 'Bernie' or 'Khaled', was of Jamaican origin and became a Muslim several years ago. Raid: Police pictured outside the An Noor community centre in west London while searching the premises. Probe: Officers in plain clothes looked at a car parked near the community centre today. His home has apparently been covered in scaffolding for 10 years as builders have worked on an extension to the property. The raid on An Noor was believed to be the first major counter-terror operation in a mosque since 2003, and police insisted that they had taken steps to avoid inflaming community tensions with the search. A spokesman said: 'As part of the ongoing investigation, officers are carrying out a number of searches of addresses in London including areas within the An Noor Cultural and Community Centre in West London. 'All officers involved in the search of the mosque are sensitive to the impact that their presence will have and are aware that this action may cause concern in the local community. 'We have been in contact with trusted community Muslim advisors this afternoon to reassure them that the action is necessary and that the premises will re-open as quickly as possible.‪' Mr Arwani was found dead in his black Volkswagen Passat on a street in Wembley last Tuesday. Ongoing: Police are still appealing for information as they continue to search various premises. Investigation: Police outside the community centre today as they continued their search. A post-mortem examination found that the father of six died from gunshot wounds, and counter-terrorism officers were tasked with investigating his killing. He was previously one of the leading preachers at An Noor, but was apparently forced out of the mosque a few years ago after a dispute with other imams. After Cooper, a Jamaican businessman, appeared in court yesterday it emerged that he had been arrested while his wife and children were at a barbecue hosted by a neighbour in Brent, north-west London. Friends described the murder suspect as a polite and teetotal church-goer, who works as a builder and a carpenter as well as running a business selling Jamaican-themed clothing. Describing the moment Cooper was arrested, a neighbour told the Daily Telegraph said: 'It was Sunday afternoon and his wife and kids were with me when suddenly there were police everywhere. 'Then they stormed inside. There were so many armed police with machine guns, it was like the Falklands War all over again.' Car: Mr Arwani was found dead last week in this Volkswagen Passat on a street in Wembley. Cooper was remanded in custody by a judge yesterday ahead of his appearance at the Old Bailey this week. Last night, Mr Arwani's family thanked the local community 'for the outpouring of support during this extremely difficult time'. In a statement released through Scotland Yard, his son Murhaf said: 'We are touched to learn how many people my father helped, advised and inspired in his short life. 'If anyone has any additional information that can help with the investigation, we urge you to please come forward and speak to the Metropolitan Police. 'Your co-operation will help us close this painful page and begin to move on with our lives, in the knowledge that the person who took away our father will be brought to justice and duly punished for this heinous crime.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Police search An Noor community centre in west London and Burnell Mitchell's home in Wembley. Mitchell, 61, is trustee of the community centre and director of company that owns it. Jamaican businessman Leslie Cooper, 36, appeared in court yesterday charged with murdering Arwani. A 61-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder.

It was a simple slip of the tongue, instantly corrected minutes after his last ever ride at Sandown on Saturday. After a tearful yet joyous and ultimately unsuccessful afternoon that none of the 18,000 spectators will forget, it was also the point at which AP McCoy acknowledged that he was an ex-jockey. ‘I am going to miss what I do . . . what I did,’ he said with a pained smile. That whole new routine kicked in yesterday. AP McCoy makes a lap of honour round the Parade ring with Champion Jockey's Trophy at Sandown. McCoy walks into Parade Ring to ride his final race on Box Office as the media assemble to get one last shot. A lie-in and cooked breakfast before a party for family and friends at his home near Lambourn. This week there will be two days as a spectator for McCoy at the Punchestown Festival. Then, when former colleagues head to Uttoxeter and Hexham on Saturday to make an early impression on the first AP-free jockeys’ title race in two decades, McCoy will be attending the wedding of one of wife Chanelle’s friends. The family duties and the exorbitant cost of a ticket means McCoy will not be heading to Las Vegas to watch Mayweather and Pacquiao. But there is a bucket list of things he wants to do now his life is no longer welded to the pursuit of riding perfection. Seeing his beloved Arsenal in the FA Cup final as well as, next season, travelling to watch them in Europe. McCoy with trainer Jonjo O'Neil after riding his final race on Box Office at Sandown racecourse on Saturday. Channel 4 presenter and tennis fan Emma Spencer. Riding some stages in the amateur Tour de France and attending the US Masters in Augusta. He can aim to reduce his own golf handicap and there is also another sporting challenge to conquer. McCoy, who doesn’t play tennis, has challenged Channel 4 presenter Emma Spencer, herself a tidy player, to a match with a tasty side bet riding on the outcome. Coaches are being lined up for McCoy’s crash course. Watch out Emma. Come to think of it, watch out Andy Murray. The list of diversions mean in the short term coping with life in Civvy Street should not be impossibly harrowing for the man who described Saturday as the ‘hardest day of my life’. During his Punchestown trip McCoy will also visit Robbie and JT McNamara, both battling degrees of paralysis after bad falls. It will inject a dose of sobering reality into his situation. McCoy said: ‘The fear of retirement is going to get worse in a month or a year. I think I will be all right in the first few weeks because I have things to do and I will be busy. ‘I will see Robbie McNamara on Tuesday and John Thomas on Wednesday. It will be nice to see the two lads and will put a lot of things into perspective.’ Sean Bowen won the conditional jockey title at Sandown on Saturday as is tipped for a bright future. There are media work offers to consider and a likely role with boss JP McManus. But McCoy will need something to satisfy his enormous work ethic. Last week he did not accept rides because he wanted to begin weaning himself off racing. But on Thursday night, trainer Paul Webber texted McCoy, saying he was short of a work rider for Friday morning, start time 7.45am. The 20-time champion jockey was not late. He also feels, painfully, that even his amazing records will be broken, perhaps even by the emerging Sean Bowen. The 17-year-old winner of Saturday feature bet365 Gold Cup on Just A Par has lifted the champion conditional jockey crown earlier in his life than McCoy managed. He has the same agent in Dave Roberts, who said: ‘What he is doing is freaky. We want to keep his feet on the ground but he has some talent.’ Sound familiar? A new era may be dawning.

AP McCoy will struggle with his new routine now he has retired from racing. 20-time champion jockey described Saturday as the hardest day of his life. His short-term list of diversions will include watching his beloved Arsenal. Conditional jockey champion Sean Bowen tipped to follow in his footsteps.

Ahead of the 79th edition of the Masters, Sportsmail counts down the 20 greatest shots ever seen at Augusta National Golf Club. Here are Nos 20-11. Mark O'Meara celebrates his winning putt in 1998. 20 Mark O'Meara, 1998. Aged 41, Mark O'Meara's chances of a major championship appeared to have gone despite a fine career and many victories on the PGA Tour. But O'Meara shot two birdies in three holes from the 15th on Sunday and a good approach into the 18th left him with a 20-footer to beat David Duval and Fred Couples. In the manner of his great friend Tiger Woods, he drained it. And he was soon handed his green jacket by Woods in the Butler Cabin. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO. 19 Billy Joe Patton, 1954. Billy Joe Patton came within a stroke of perhaps the biggest Masters shock of all but narrowly missed out on a play-off with Sam Snead and Ben Hogan. But for a short while it had appeared that an amateur golfer could topple two of the greatest ever to play the game, thanks to his hole-in-one on the par-three sixth on Sunday. Sadly, Patton's hopes were ultimately shot down by a double bogey on the 13th attempting to fly Rae's Creek and reach the green in two. Otherwise his ace would have featured near the very top of this list. Billy Joe Patton hits on the 13th hole... the scene of the double-bogey which ultimately cost him victory. CLICK HERE for the second part of our countdown, featuring videos of shots from the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Bubba Watson and Tiger Woods... 18 Seve Ballesteros, 1983. Seve's second Masters victory featured what he called 'the best golf of my life' over the first four holes, and one 205-yard 2-iron on the fourth was utterly spectacular. But nothing quite sums up the genius of the late, great Spaniard than the way he clinched his four-shot victory over Tom Kite and Ben Crenshaw. An up and down for a bogey would have comfortably sewn up his victory, but showman Seve was having none of it and chipped in for a par four. 17 Byron Nelson, 1937. Byron Nelson found himself a somewhat daunting six shots behind Ralph Guldahl in the final round of the 1937 tournament. But his comeback was complete on the par-five 13th after he found the cup with a chip for eagle from off the green, while his rival could only manage bogey. Lord Byron came from four strokes down to two ahead in just 25 minutes, and went on to win the first of his five majors by that same margin. Byron Nelson and club member Alfred Bourne at the presentation ceremony in 1937. 16 Vijay Singh, 2009. OK, so this isn't actually during the Masters itself, but have you ever seen anything like it? The big Fijian won the green jacket in 2000 but may not have hit a finer shot than this one during the annual par-three tournament on the Wednesday before the 2009 edition. Vijay skimmed his ball across a lake and watched as it rolled onto the green and into the cup for an ace. You'll need to see it to believe it. 15 Nick Faldo, 1989. With dark descending, in dank drizzle and with wind whipping the course, Nick Faldo became only the second Briton ever to win the Masters after a play-off with Scott Hoch. His nerveless approach over the water on the 11th hole was good, but the putt was even better. Faldo recalled how his caddie, Andy Prodger, told him it was too dark to see the line of the shot, but he stroked it pure and right into the heart of the cup. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE SHOT. Nick Faldo celebrates his brilliant putt to win the Masters in a play-off in 1989. 14 Charl Schwartzel, 2011. Charl Schwartzel's victory three years ago is most famous for his rip-roaring finish - four birdies in the final four holes sealed his first major title - but his start was no less incredible. After missing the first green, the South African somehow chipped in from 100 feet for a remarkable birdie. And then, on the third, he slam-dunked his approach from the fairway for an eagle two. Two incredible shots, but the gods truly were smiling on Schwartzel that day. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO. Charl Schwartzel (right) is presented with his green jacket by Phil Mickelson in 2011. 13 Phil Mickelson, 2004. Phil Mickelson had long carried the burden of being known as 'the best player never to have won a major' - just ask Lee Westwood how wearisome that feels. Lefty had a string of near-misses behind him - six second and third places - when he went toe-to-toe with Ernie Els over the back nine at Augusta that Sunday. And it all came down to the final green as Phil the Thrill sank an 18-footer for birdie under huge pressure to cast off that unwanted reputation once and for all. 12 Fuzzy Zoeller, 1979. Imagine playing in your very first Masters... and standing over a putt to win, in a sudden-death play-off. It was the first time the Masters had been decided in such a way, was played in the gathering gloom and also included Ed Sneed and the great Tom Watson. In near darkness, Zoeller held his nerve to sink his birdie putt on the 11th hole and make history. 11 Louis Oosthuizen, 2012. Some might argue that this is the best shot in Masters history - but some would also say it wasn't even the best shot of the day (see the countdown from 10-1). Whatever, it's hard to think of a more perfectly envisioned, controlled and executed long iron in the history of the game. Oosthuizen catapulted himself into the lead (and an eventual play-off) with this 253-yard approach into the par-five second hole that pitched on a sixpence at the front of the green. From then on, it was never going anywhere other than the centre of the cup. Louis Oosthuizen raises his arms and soaks it all in after holing out for an albatross at Augusta in 2012.

The 79th Masters Tournament begins on Thursday at Augusta National. Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy are among the leading contenders. It has seen many shots which have gone down in golfing legend. Seve Ballesteros, Phil Mickelson and Nick Faldo all made history.

Raheem Sterling was told in no uncertain terms by Liverpool supporters that they expect him to remain at the club this summer on the day he was parading the club's new home kit at Anfield. The new gingham design, presented to supporters at Anfield on Friday, is the first offering from US sports brand New Balance, who struck a record-breaking £300million four-year kit deal to replace sister company Warrior as Liverpool's suppliers. The message was 'Hold Nothing Back' as Sterling, Daniel Sturridge, Martin Skrtel and Simon Mignolet unveiled the new home strip to fans in the Centenary Stand on Friday afternoon. Raheem Sterling (2nd r) models Liverpool's new kit alongside (l-r) Adam Lallana, Daniel Sturridge, Jordan Henderson and Philippe Coutinho. The Liverpool stars, including goalkeeper Simon Mignolet in his new jersey, made their way to Anfield to present the kit to the fans. Sturridge uploaded these photographs to his Instagram account as he posed with Sterling, Mignolet and Skrtel at the launch. New Balance struck a record-breaking £300million four-year kit deal to replace sister company Warrior as Liverpool's suppliers. It looks like (l-r) Skrtel, Mignolet, Sterling and Sturridge will all remain at Liverpool this season after unveiling in the new strip. Fans pack into the Centenary Stand on Friday afternoon to catch a glimpse of the New Balance strip. Raheem Sterling (left) and Daniel Sturridge (right) sit on stage while a Q&A is conducted at Anfield. The players arrive at Anfield as they prepare for the launch of the 2015/16 strip. Only a week ago, Sterling held nothing back with his stunning interview after rejecting a new £100,000-a-week deal at Liverpool. He also sensationally revealed that he was flattered to be linked with Arsenal to cast a huge question mark over his future. But Liverpool are adamant that the 20-year-old, who has two years left to run on his contract, will not be quitting this summer and are putting their shirt on him to stay. One fan shouted 'make sure we see you in that next season' at Sterling , and the heckle was greeted with applause. Sterling told an expectant audience: 'The fans are great. It's a massive boost when you come out of the changing room and hear them sing that song. You can't get better than that. While players also turned their attention to the FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa at Wembley next weekend. 'It's special to play at Wembley, especially because it's my home town,' Sterling said. And Sturridge added: 'Winning the FA Cup would be huge for everyone - players, fans and staff. We all want to have some success and we hope it's this season. Winning the Cup could be a platform for more success in the future. 'It's great to play in front of these fans. It's an unbelievable feeling. It's a cliche but it's true, they are our 12th man. every week we try to get 3 points for the fans. they mean a lot to us. ' (l-r) Sturridge, Emre Can, Martin Skrtel, Simon Mignolet and Coutinho pose with 'Hold Nothing Back' the message in the background. The memorial flame and number 96 is also on the shirt in tribute to the casualties at the Hillsborough disaster in 1989. Liverpool's 2015/16 home kit (left) and the home goalkeepers jersey (right) have been designed by sponsors New Balance. A close-up of the new Liverpool kit for 2015/16, which is US Sports brand New Balance's first for the club. Liverpool legends Robbie Fowler and Ian Rush (left) were also at the launch of the kit at Anfield. Sterling is seen here wearing the new kit inside the club's home dressing room alongside team-mates Sturridge, Henderson, Adam Lallana and Phillipe Coutinho. Brazilian Coutinho was the hero in midweek as he helped Brendan Rodgers' side bounce back from last weekend's bruising Barclays Premier League defeat by Arsenal with a fine finish to book Liverpool a semi-final showdown with Aston Villa at Wembley next Sunday. Although departing captain Steven Gerrard won't be around to model Liverpool's new kit next season, his dream of bowing out in the FA Cup Final on his birthday, May 31, remains alive. The new shirt features all white branding — the New Balance logo, the Liverbird and the Standard Chartered logo, whilst there is an all-new style of collar. Skrtel said: 'It's a great design, I just hope it will bring us some luck and success.' The full home kit which Brendan Rodgers' players will be wearing at Liverpool during the 2015/16 season. Raheem Sterling told the BBC that he had rejected a £100,000-a-week contract at Liverpool prompting talk that he could leave the club.

Raheem Sterling poses with kit alongside Philippe Coutinho, Jordan Henderson, Daniel Sturridge and Adam Lallana. Midfielder has been linked with a move away from Liverpool after refusing to sign new £100,000-a-week contract. New Balance struck a record-breaking £300m four-year kit deal to replace sister company Warrior at Liverpool. Captain Steven Gerrard did not model new strip as he prepares to leave for LA Galaxy in the summer.

Eight years ago, after his AC Milan team had beaten Liverpool to win the Champions League final in Athens, Kaka knelt in the centre circle, spread his arms out wide, tilted his head back and turned his eyes to the skies in a gesture of worship and supplication. The Brazilian superstar was wearing a vest on which he had printed the proud statement 'I Belong to Jesus'. It was a striking, bold image of a man not afraid to display his faith. Please correct me if I'm wrong but I can't remember anybody screaming that what Kaka had done was a 'disgrace'. I can't remember him being mocked or ridiculed. I can't remember anyone saying his gesture was an affront to public decency. Kaka showed off an 'I belong to Jesus' vest after AC Milan's Champions League win against Liverpool in 2007. The Brazilian midfielder, who is deeply religious, was not mocked or ridiculed for the message on his clothes. I can't remember public anger being mobilised against him or him being held up as a symbol of a creeping, sinister malaise in our society. I can't remember Kaka being criticised for his faith. I can't remember anyone saying that such shows of religious devotion were out of place at a football match. Last Monday night, I went to an LA Dodgers game at Dodger Stadium. As always before a sporting event of any size in the States, professional or high school, the crowd sang the national anthem lustily. I might not have been paying attention but I don't recall anybody objecting when the spectators sang God Bless America. I don't recall anybody saying they were inflicting their religion on the non-Christians among the crowd. The idea that anybody might do that is absurd, right? I mean, amid all the other things we have to worry and fret about, who could object to something as harmless as that? And what about the high profile Bible Group that exists on golf's PGA Tour and boasts major winners such as Bubba Watson and Webb Simpson among its members? Some members pause midway through their rounds to read from the New Testament, meditate on holy scriptures and pray. 'We do something before every round,' American golfer Ben Crane said recently. Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson is part of a Bible Group on the PGA Tour. Webb Simpson, pictured in action at the RBC heritage, is another well known Christian golfer. Nobody sees fit to complain about that, surely. Imagine the outrage if they did. Whether you follow the same beliefs or not, why would anybody object to sportsmen finding some common ground in religion? It's the same in the NFL. Players routinely congregate on the pitch before and after a match to pray. Not a big deal. Not even something to remark upon. Just part of players' rituals. Members of the Seattle Seahawks, who won the Super Bowl two years ago, even made a proselytising video extolling the virtues of Christianity and urging supporters to 'find out how you can get plugged in with local believers'. No problem, surely. And let's not forget our own Premier League. Some might see it as a refuge of the godless but many of its players don't agree. Daniel Sturridge, the Liverpool forward, talks openly about giving the glory for his deeds to God. His beliefs are widely seen as a positive element in his life. Javier Hernandez always dropped to his knees to pray before kick off when he played for Manchester United. David Luiz, the former Chelsea defender, used to drive to training with a 'Christ is Life' sticker on his van when he was at Benfica. Daniel Sturridge (left) and Javier Hernandez (right) both express their beliefs on the football pitch. So forgive me for being naive but why is it that when two men pray quietly in a small corner of an English football ground that their actions should be labelled a 'disgrace'. The only disgrace, of course, was the blinkered, bigoted reaction of the petty-minded oaf who took the picture of the men and was appalled by what he saw. What exactly is noteworthy about two men praying on the concourse at Anfield during Liverpool's FA Cup tie with Blackburn Rovers last month? Why is it that when another group of supporters did the same thing at a West Ham match recently, their actions were met with similar consternation? You probably remember the video footage of that incident at Upton Park. A breathless man shouting 'what is this' as he filmed the men praying as if they were engaged in an act of desecration. Then the supporters around him started yelling 'Irons, Irons' as if they had located a rival hooligan faction. Stephen Dodd took this photograph of Asif Bodi and Abubakar Bhula praying at Anfield last month. Let's be honest about this because there's a simple answer to the question of what unites these reactions: if you're Christian, it's OK to pray at a football ground. If you're Muslim, it's not. That's the truth, isn't it? That's what we're avoiding. Expressions of Christian devotion at sporting events go unremarked. Expressions of Muslim devotion are described as 'extraordinary scenes'. They prompt suggestions that this will be the thin end of the wedge and that soon, horror of horrors, there will be prayer rooms at football stadia. Er, well, what's wrong with that? Some clubs already have prayer rooms, actually. They're multi-denominational. It is bizarre that anyone should even consider it an issue. But they do, apparently. Religion at a sporting event becomes a topic only when it is someone else's religion. Bob Dylan sang about that once. The verse went like this: 'You don't count the dead when God's on your side.' Failure to end KP debate is hurting England. It's a sorry state of affairs when England's inability to close out the First Test against the West Indies is seen through the prism of another failure to quell speculation about the return of Kevin Pietersen. Victory would have quietened some of the voices that have been urging his restoration to the side. Defeat would have hastened his recall. The draw in Antigua was the worst of all worlds. Jonathan Trott leads the way as England's players trudge off after their draw against the West Indies. There is an unavoidable sense that English cricket will not be able to move on until the Pietersen issue is resolved and an inconclusive series in the Caribbean will mean only that our game is more likely to be left in a state of limbo until the Ashes series this summer and possibly beyond. It almost feels as if it would be better to throw Pietersen into the fray and step back and watch the fisticuffs. There is a storm coming and until it breaks, we fret about the dark clouds. Talk of an England return for batsman Kevin Pietersen is continuing to gather pace. Former New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez was convicted of first degree murder last week for shooting a man six times. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole. The jury heard that Hernandez, one of the best players in the NFL, thought that wealth and fame made him immune from the rule of law. His demise is a grim warning of the worst that can happen when the inflated wages modern sportsmen earn warp their minds. Former NLF star Aaron Hernandez (second from right) has been sentenced to life in prison without parole. Favourite food at a sporting venue? The Eccles cakes they used to serve at Anfield take some beating but the garlic fries they serve at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles went to the top of my list this week. The game — the Dodgers beat the Seattle Mariners in extra innings — wasn't bad, either. Los Angeles Dodgers duo Adrian Gonzalez (left) and Andre Ethier celebrate after beating the Seattle Mariners.

Liverpool are taking action against fan Stephen Dodd who photographed Asif Bodi and Abubakar Bhula praying at Anfield last month. Dodd captioned the photo: 'Muslims praying at half time #DISGRACE' Kaka famously displayed a 'I belong to Jesus' vest after AC Milan's Champions League win against Liverpool in 2007. Bubba Watson and Webb Simpson are part of a PGA Tour Bible Group. Religion in sport only becomes a topic when it is someone else's religion.

JT’s NEVER BEEN BETTER. Jose Mourinho's return was the answer to John Terry’s prayers. Mourinho said Sunday's game at the Emirates was the best Terry had ever played. That was a pat on the back for his captain but also justification for Mourinho’s faith in playing him. Terry is in a real purple patch and his reading of the game is better than ever. Part of his success comes from the way the team is set up in front of him. All of their good work means he is in prime position each time to make the telling tackle or interception. John Terry (left) was in inspiring form in the Chelsea defence as his side kept a clean sheet against Arsenal. Sportsmail's Martin Keown says the Blues skipper is enjoying some of the best football of his career. The 34-year-old defender's timing in the tackle has been impeccable for the majority this season. His decision-making is excellent and he waits for the perfect moment to get involved — there can be an element of gambling with that but it is a calculated risk. He was always able to anticipate where Arsenal wanted to play the game and stop them from doing it. As Chelsea have become harder to beat, Terry has come into his own. Following an entertaining first half, Arsenal's tempo appeared to drop after the half time break. GHOSTS OF MONACO? In the first half Arsenal played at a terrific tempo, especially down the left, but the whistle came at the perfect time for Chelsea. After the break Arsenal didn’t move the ball quickly enough. They looked mindful of the Monaco game where they lost control but here there was not enough spark. Gunners striker Olivier Giroud had a frustrating afternoon against a rugged Chelsea defence. Danny Welbeck's pace through the middle could have instead caused the Chelsea back line a lot trouble. A MISSED OPPORTUNITY. I’m a big fan of Olivier Giroud but Arsenal needed to ask a different question of the Chelsea defence. John Terry and Gary Cahill are built to deal with players like Giroud and everything was played in front of them. If Danny Welbeck had played through the middle, his pace could have unsettled Chelsea. It’s much easier to be compact when there’s no threat in behind. The Arsenal supporters were heard lamenting Chelsea's 'boring' performance at the Emirates Stadium. Despite many questioning Chelsea's tactics in the big games Jose Mourinho's team are in full control. JOSE IS ALWAYS THE BOSS. The Arsenal fans said it was boring but Chelsea are doing what they need to do to see out a championship. There is no problem with that. If anything that element of control is something Arsenal would do well to copy. Yes, there was no striker but could Didier Drogba really play three games in a row at 37? Jose just made good use of his squad. At the start of the season Chelsea played with so much expression it looked like the players were in charge. Now they look dogged, disciplined and firmly in control. There is no doubt as to who is the boss now.

Martin Keown: Danny Welbeck's pace might have unsettled Chelsea. John Terry and Gary Cahill are built to deal with players like Olivier Giroud. Keown says Chelsea captain Terry's reading of the game is better than ever. The Arsenal fans said it was boring but Chelsea are doing what they need to do to win the league. Thierry Henry: Arsenal can't win title with Olivier Giroud in attack.

It's Hot or Not time again as Ian Ladyman reveals what's been making him feel warm this week and what's been leaving him cold inside. Italians embrace the Cricket World Cup (yes, really), a Neville takes charge of England and it's not looking good for the Rickies. HOT. CRICKET WORLD CUP. A spellbinding tournament that reached in to places we couldn’t have imagined, last weekend’s Gazzetta dello Sport magazine in Italy even carried a centre spread photograph of Australia’s David Warner. Imagine how good the whole thing would have been had England been playing. From Melbourne to Milan... they all knew about Australia's triumph in the Cricket World Cup. COLIN GRAVES. Much disdain from the establishment for the new ECB chief’s talk of four-day Test matches but at least he’s thinking. If the long format of the game isn’t quite dying then it’s certainly withering. The future of Test cricket could be in line for a change now Colin Graves is the new ECB chief. TRACEY NEVILLE. It’s tough to dedicate a life to sport when you know that the world isn’t really watching but Neville’s appointment as England netball coach follows an 81-cap international career, five years of domestic coaching and the establishment of an academy. The Nevilles, still busy. Tracey Neville has played and worked her way to the very top of her sport and is now in charge of England. KEVIN SINFIELD. The Leeds Rhinos half-back has all his dental work done without anaesthetic ‘because it’s quicker’ but he may find his late career switch from League to Union a rather more taxing challenge. Many – on both sides of the divide – will hope he fails but the chances are that he won’t. It's all change for Kevin Sinfield as he switches codes from League to Union. NOT. ROBERTO MANCINI. His Inter team sit ninth in that forgotten small-time squabble that is Serie A and the Italian press have called for Mancini to destroy his squad and rebuild it. ‘Yaya Toure will be the first piece in the new Inter Frankenstein’, predicted Gazetta. The monster will need cake, though. This better be good, Roberto! Mancini's Inter Milan are way off the pace in Serie A. RICKIE LAMBERT. Liverpool have injury problems up front but a certainty is that Lambert will not play at Arsenal. Lambert’s move to his boyhood club has ruined him and if Brendan Rodgers had no intention of devising a Plan B at Anfield, why on earth did he buy him? This goal against Aston Villa was one of only three Rickie Lambert has scored for Liverpool this season. Lambert celebrates after scoring during Liverpool's victory at Villa Park in January. PHIL JONES. Further evidence that moving to a big club doesn’t always work, Jones needs to improve quickly at Manchester United. It would, however, help if Louis van Gaal could become the first Old Trafford manager of three to decide where exactly he wishes to play him. Phil Jones (left) was on England duty this week but it's back to the day job with Manchester United. BUTCH HARMON. The esteemed US coach wants client Rickie Fowler to become ‘nasty’ in order to break his major duck at the US Masters this week, which is odd given that his most successful current student – Phil Mickleson – has won three Green Jackets by being exactly the opposite. Rickie Fowler will bid to break his major duck next week but is it really time to turn into Mr Nasty?

Rickie Lambert is likely to miss out when Liverpool play Arsenal. Rickie Fowler has been urged to develop a nasty streak at Augusta. Phil Jones - can Louis van Gaal find his perfect position? Roberto Mancini has a huge Italian job on his hands at Inter Milan. But he probably enjoyed coverage of the Cricket World Cup in the paper.

Over the years I’ve been lucky enough to play with a lot of accomplished women golfers, including two former world No 1's in Lorena Ochoa and Laura Davies. But none of these encounters prepared me for playing 18 holes with Charley Hull, the best teenage golfer in Britain. Suffice to say: I knew she was good but I didn’t appreciate she was so damn good. The venue was Turnberry and a media day for the Ricoh Women’s British Open in July. The sun was shining, Ailsa Craig was shimmering in the distance and Hull put on a shot-making clinic. Charley Hull can make it to the very top of the women's game if she carries on her progression. Teenager Hull possesses the same ‘wow’ factor as world No 1 Rory McIlroy (below) One of the nice things for me about playing golf with the women pros is we usually hit the ball about the same length. Not on this day. Hull hit drives that pitched past mine. She positively exudes the ‘wow’ factor Rory McIlroy had at the same age. Like Rory, she’s also easy company. Normally the way these things work is for the journalist to kick start conversations but Hull asked more questions than I did. She wanted to know everything about the course, from the historic role of the celebrated lighthouse to the war memorial that offers sober reflection to golfers on the back nine. The 19-year-old was keen to know about the revamp planned by the Trump family, who recently purchased Turnberry, under the guidance of course architect Martin Ebert. Again, like Rory, there’s the requisite amount of steel. ‘I’d hit a five iron off this tee to stay short of the bunkers,’ advised her caddy Gary Wildman, on the opening hole. ‘No, I want to hit a driver,’ replied Hull. She hit a driver. Indeed, she hit a driver off every tee, which is the way she likes to do things in practice. ‘I just find taking on the holes makes me concentrate,’ she explained. Again, like Rory, the driver also happens to be the best club in her bag. The 19-year-old has the same mentality and 'wow factor' as world No 1 Rory McIlroy. It puts her in the vanguard of the next revolution set to sweep the women’s game. After the emergence of the Koreans and the revival of the Americans, get set for the power hitters to leave their mark in the same way their male counterparts hold sway in the men’s version. Hull is part of a group that includes Thai rookie Ariya Jutanugarn and American Lexi Thompson. Hull has added 25 yards to her drive since hooking up with swing coach Matt Belsham earlier this year. Again, like McIlroy — there could be a theme here — her swing is so good she uses blade irons (she might be the only woman to do so), which are the preserve of the technically sound. American Lexi Thompson is another highly-touted golfer in women's golf and will challenge Hull. What’s next for the girl from Kettering who plays at Woburn and who finished No 1 in Europe last year, the youngest to do so? She has now earned her privileges to play in America and clearly that is the next proving ground. Her plan is to be the best player in the world at 21 — the year McIlroy reached the summit — which might be a tall order given the present incumbent happens to be 13 months younger and won yet again in America on Sunday. Hull speaks in respectful tones about Lydia Ko. They played together in New Zealand recently, where the home favourite shot a course-record 61 to Hull’s 64. ‘It was just an amazing day, and I hope we have many more,’ said Hull. Hull has ambitions to be the best in the world and she has a good chance of doing just that. The great advantage she will have over Ko going forward is the fact she hits the ball significantly further. But will she hole enough putts to make it count? On this day, she holed nothing of any length and still breezed round the Ailsa Course in 68 strokes. Hull recalled the last time she played Turnberry, in the Health Perception Championship. She was nine at the time, and stood 4ft 7in tall. ‘This was where I got knocked over by the wind,’ she said, standing on the 11th tee. How typical that she got back up to win the event. A decade on, she’ll take some knocking over this July… and beyond.

British golfer Charley Hull has all the attributes to be one of the best. The 19-year-old has the same 'wow factor' as Rory McIlroy at the same age. Hull is part of an exciting group including Thailand's Ariya Jutanugarn and American Lexi Thompson.

I couldn’t wait to get out of Bournemouth, even though I loved the place. It was a holiday town, a place that would send you to sleep rather than drive you forward. Maybe it was the sea air; everything always manana. Then along came Eddie Howe. His team are anything but a team to send you to sleep. They are dynamic, full of hungry players, with a point to prove. I can tell you now that wide player Matt Ritchie is a contender for my ‘10 to watch’ for next season — he is dynamite. Eddie Howe raises his arms in triumph after Bournemouth sealed Premier League promotion. (Left-right) Brett Pitman, Yann Kermorgant, Howe, Andrew Surman and Callum Wilson celebrate. And I can’t wait to see Callum Wilson in the top flight. He was on the back page of my Daily Mail on Tuesday morning and you can expect to see him there more often. He is like Ian Wright, an exploding champagne bottle of a player; shake him up and watch him fizz. Howe is the man who has got them buzzing. Gary Lineker asked if we have found ‘the English Special One’, but Eddie is not the Special One. He is the Different One. Watch Eddie on the touchline and you will see he is the opposite to Mourinho. Eddie is peaceful during a game, relaxed, quiet and controlled. His extrovert assistant, Jason Tindall, provides the instructions and the demands, with Eddie making his feelings known in a calm and gentle fashion. Obviously the Barclays Premier League will bring different demands for this young man, who is still only 37. Bournemouth's players slide along the turf in delight after their dream came true on Monday night. We got to know each other after my dad signed him for Portsmouth in 2002. He played only twice because of a knee injury that was similar to one that cost me my career. It eventually finished him, too, and while you don’t want to make friends through the same devastating injury, I am glad I got to know him. Some people you meet you can see are destined to be successful. He was always one of them. My dad liked him instantly and had a soft spot for him. I always thought my dad would be the king of Bournemouth, for their FA Cup giantkilling of holders Manchester United in 1984 and their promotion success when he took them into what is now the Championship. But Eddie has blown away those achievements. Lots of clubs will be admiring his progress and while he didn’t enjoy his experience at Burnley when he left Bournemouth in 2011, that won’t stop others casting an eye in his direction. Marc Pugh (left), Ryan Fraser and Harry Arter (right) toast the 3-0 win over Bolton that secured promotion. And why not? He is impressive. He has a good eye for talent, makes big calls, plays young players, is forward-thinking, ambitious and looks the part — he is a chairman’s dream. He will crave the opportunity to manage in the Premier League and will enjoy recruiting new talent. Bournemouth is a good place to bring up a family and he has also made it a good place to play. It is very different from the leaking stands and muddy pitch at Dean Court that I left behind. My childhood there was a big part of my life, cleaning Luther Blissett’s boots, training with Tony Pulis, Ian Bishop and Gerry Peyton and receiving my schooling in a football environment. But the away end had no roof and the old boys used to sit on wooden benches with cushions that they would throw at you when you were having a poor game. Jamie Redknapp believes Howe was destined for success as soon as got to know him in 2002. Leaving for Liverpool at 17, I couldn’t get away fast enough. But now I can’t wait to get back there next season. I would never have thought all four of my clubs — Bournemouth, Liverpool, Spurs and Southampton — would be in the same league. Eddie Howe is the reason for that. I wonder if we are seeing an England manager in the making here.

Bournemouth secured promotion on Monday with victory against Bolton. Eddie Howe has put Bournemouth on map after leading them to top flight. Jamie Redknapp always believed Howe was destined for success.

It's been a frustrating few weeks but at our end we are trying everything we can to make the fight that everyone in this country wants to see – Scott Quigg against Carl Frampton. You'll have seen by now that we have offered Frampton £1.5million for the fight – all he has to do is turn up, we will take all the risks. If there's more we can do to make this fight happen then I don't know what it is. Now it is up to Frampton and his people to decide if they really want it. If they do, cash the cheque and come to the Manchester Arena on July 18. Scott Quigg is desperate to fight Carl Frampton and has offered him £1.5million to do so on July 18. Promoter Eddie Hearn produced a cheque for £1.5m live on television on Tuesday. I hope they do because I really can't understand what is stopping them. All the risk is on our side. I have fronted up this money and Scott is the one who might earn less. If this only generates average pay-per-view numbers then he might only make a third of what Frampton is getting. Personally, I think it will do big numbers and then Scott will probably get about the same as Frampton. It was interesting to see the Cyclone (Frampton's promoters) statement shortly after. They said this fight can only happen if they are co-promoters. Why, if we are the ones putting the money up? If it matters that much to them to have their name on the poster or Michael Buffer read their name out before the fight then I don't have a problem with that either. The fact is it's not about Cyclone or Matchroom, it's about Scott Quigg and Carl Frampton. Frampton made the first defence of his world title against Chris Avalos in February. In any case, Scott will fight on July 18 at Manchester Arena. I have held talks with both Nonito Donaire, the Filipino sensation, and Kiko Martinez. Both are former world champions and both are brilliant fights. Scott has options but he knows the biggest fight in the super-bantamweight division is a unification against Frampton. That is why we are busting a gut to make it happen. Now the ball is in Frampton's court. It is looking very likely at the moment that Kell Brook will fight on my May 30 card at the O2 Arena. With Kevin Mitchell and Lee Selby fighting for world titles and Anthony Joshua taking on Kevin Johnson, the addition of Kell will make this one of the very best cards this country has seen in years. Many have called for a fight between the IBF's No 5 ranked fighter Frankie Gavin to face Kell. I can tell you it is a fight that we are considering very closely. Kell Brook looks set to make a quick return to the ring with an appearance on May 30 at the O2 Arena. It's been an interesting few months for Frankie. In November he won the British and Commonwealth titles against Bradley Skeete and now his options look like a fight for the IBF international title against Chris van Heerden, an IBF title eliminator against Timothy Bradley, or a straight fight against the holder, who happens to be Kell. As his promoter, I can't see the merit in him going to America to fight Bradley if Kell is an option on May 30. And believe me, it is an option we are looking at closely. Frankie Gavin could challenge Brook for his world title in London in an all-British showdown. The public, more than anything, like an all-British fight. And every 10 minutes since we signed Frankie he has been asking for a fight with Kell. As Kell says, it is nice to see a British fighter with the balls to fight him. Josh Warrington is in action in Leeds this weekend. The unbeaten Leeds featherweight is up against Dennis Tubieron for the vacant WBC international title and it is his first real step towards a world title. This kid is brilliant inside and out of the ring. One of the highlights of my job has been watching him and Lee Selby moving towards each other. If Selby wins the world title against Evgeny Gradovich on May 30, as I believe he will, then the stage will be set for a huge world title fight between Selby and Warrington in 2016. Josh Warrington bids to continue his rise when he takes on Dennis Tubieron in Leeds on Saturday. Anthony Joshua marches on. He destroyed Jason Gavern on Saturday, making it 11 fights, 11 wins and 11 knockouts. Considering he has endured a lengthy lay-off with a stress fracture in his back, I could not have been happier. People have questioned the opponent but Gavern is a guy who went four rounds with Deontay Wilder in his 32nd fight last year. That is not to make a comparison with Joshua and Wilder, but more to show that in beating Gavern in three rounds there should not be any doubts about what was a worrying injury. Anthony Joshua made it 11 stoppage wins from as many fights when he beat Jason Gavern in Newcastle. Joshua is likely to fight in Birmingham on May 9 before taking on Kevin Johnson three weeks later. We will now carry on full speed with a guy who I am convinced will soon be a world champion. I am looking to get him out again on May 9 in Birmingham and should have more information on that soon. Then he will face Kevin Johnson at the O2 Arena on May 30 and from there we are looking at the likes of Dillian Whyte, Dereck Chisora and David Price. Beyond that you have Tyson Fury and David Haye. I'd expect those fights to be ticked off in the next 12 months. People want to see him fight the best now. But this is a process and we have a plan. The huge fights are coming up and I'd back him to look absolutely devastating.

Scott Quigg and I have taken all the risks - Carl Frampton must step up. We've written him a cheque for £1.5million so what is stopping them? I've also held talks with Kiko Martinez and Nonito Donaire for July 18. Kell Brook vs Frankie Gavin under strong consideration for May 30. Anthony Joshua will probably fight again on May 9 in Birmingham.

There will be a white-hot atmosphere at White Hart Lane on Saturday afternoon when Aston Villa come to town but Tim Sherwood has got to keep his emotions in check. This is about what happens on the pitch, not the touchline. The Villa boss is a passionate man but he can’t afford to let things get personal. He did a good job at Tottenham — he’s never afraid to talk about having the best Premier League win percentage of any Spurs boss — but was still not trusted with the job long-term. That will hurt. He was in charge of the youth set-up for years and the club are now reaping the rewards with a team full of academy players, but he is more than just a company man. Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood returns to White Hart Lane to face Tottenham this weekend. When he was finally given a shot at the top job his personality came flooding through. Incredibly driven and extremely confident, he did not take long to make a mark but it was an uneasy relationship and did not last long. That was a shame, because he is talented and I like to see as many former players as possible in managerial roles. There is so much knowledge to harness. At Aston Villa, he has set the emotional bar high but it’s working. Villa were lacking confidence all season and it looked like they lacked the ambition to win games. Sherwood’s intensity has sparked them back to life. He has revived Christian Benteke in the same way as he did for Emmanuel Adebayor last season. Sherwood clearly targets players he feels can make the biggest impact and sets to work. Sherwood lets his feelings be known as he celebrates a goal at Villa Park against Queens Park Rangers. Sherwood launches his jacket to the ground in celebration after Aston Villa pulled level against QPR. Sherwood grimaces as the Villa mascot - wearing the famous Tim Sherwood gilet - embraces him. The big Belgian has seven goals in five games and looks a top player again. He was not affecting games but now his team-mates find him early. There’s nothing wrong with being direct and Benteke is a beast when you get him on the ball. Sherwood is still searching for a balance in midfield but he has given Charles N’Zogbia a chance and still has an eye on youth with talent such as Jack Grealish coming through. Sherwood’s emotional style can be great for a player — his antics on the touchline prove how much it means to him — but it has its drawbacks. He is never afraid to tell his players what he thinks of them. That encourages some but footballers can be sensitive souls. The Villa squad won’t like being called ‘icing-on-the-cake players’ and I’m sure a few at Tottenham will remember being told they ‘lack character’ and ‘are too nice’. Sherwood certainly knew how to get the best out of Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor. Big Belgian international Christian Benteke is another striker enjoying working under Sherwood. When I was at Arsenal and George Graham came back to the club as Leeds boss, there was an extra determination to beat him. I expect Spurs to be exactly the same with Sherwood. There’s no doubt he’s talented but he has to be careful not to let his emotions get the better of him. Les Ferdinand told me when they worked together at Spurs, Tim needed a calming influence alongside him, as long as it was a peer he could respect. Les was the perfect foil. Don’t be surprised if Sherwood appoints someone like Ferdinand at Villa. It will be interesting to see what kind of reception Sherwood gets on Saturday. But with Villa staring at a relegation battle this is not about unfinished business or gilet throwing. This is about the result. That’s why Tim has to keep his cool. Sherwood shouts at his players as they look to earn an important victory at home to QPR. Sherwood shares a smile with Les Ferdinand during their time at White Hart Lane together.

Sherwood is a passionate man but he can’t afford to let things get personal. At new club Aston Villa, he has set the emotional bar high but it’s working. Christian Benteke has found a new lease of life at the Midlands outfit.

I see Usain Bolt on the circuit and he’s always good fun. He likes to make jokes of me! I remember in Moscow, at the last World Championships, when I was competing in the 200m when most people saw me as a 100m runner, he killed me in the warmup. ‘What are you doing?’ he asked me. ‘This is for the 200m runners – the 100m was a few days ago. You missed it.’ I told him I was doing the 200m. ‘Why? he asked again. I said I wanted to try it. He was winding me up. It was helping me relax, actually. It was very nice. Adam Gemili says Usain Bolt is a joker on the circuit and gives him great advice. The young British athlete says he is nowhere near Bolt's standard at the moment but it could be his time soon. Gemili has announced his participation in the Sainsbury's Anniversary Games this summer. It obviously worked, as I then ran sub-20 and he was praising me a lot and saying great things about me. Bolt gave me some great advice to really enjoy athletics and have fun with it. He told me to have patience with it, make sure you keep enjoying it and you will get serious when you get a bit older and start to take it more seriously but don’t put pressure on yourself to perform. No matter whatever anyone says or writes, make sure you’re always having a good time. He’s good like that. I can take that into this year. I like to think I always have a great time when I go to compete. I always give a big smile before races because you never get bored of that feeling; people cheering for you and making you feel like ‘wow’ all this training you’ve done in the winter and throwing up on the track, all the hard slog is worth it. It’s a brilliant feeling. Hopefully I can get a bit more serious, now that I’ve just finished uni and I will start to get a bit more competitive with those guys. I don’t think Bolt will be too worried about me at the moment, he’s something special when he gets himself into shape and competing. I’m very lucky to be around at this time when he’s at his peak and running. To be in the mix and be a part of these guys is nice. Bolt has been beaten before, which shows he is only human. After those guys have retired — sprinters like Tyson Gay and Justin Gatlin — it’ s quite open for people to step in and take the mantle. Obviously the American and Jamaican sprinters have always been the top dogs, they are very powerful nations and hard guys to beat. In Britain and Europe we have some great young names coming through that can go on and push the performances up. I’d like to think there is a chance for British sprinters to step into the void. We don’t do the sport to come second or third. You do the sport to try to be the best. There will be a nice little gap opening and it will encourage a lot of people to step up their performance. Ten British sprinters - including Gemili (centre) got together for as stunning Sportsmail photoshoot. As well as funding the Road to Rio athletes, every week National Lottery players raise over £33 million for arts, heritage, charity, community projects and grass roots sports clubs and facilities. Find out where your money goes at lotterygoodcauses.org.uk.

British sprinter Adam Gemili blogs about his preparations for Rio 2016. Gemili says Usain Bolt is great at the circuit as he is often joking around. Admits Bolt gives great advice and he will try to take that into this season.

Olivier Giroud has admitted he gets ‘p*****’ with people talking about his latest hairstyle rather than his ability on the pitch for Arsenal. Giroud appeared to misinterpret a question about Arsene Wenger praising his animal instincts in Arsenal’s attack in the build-up to their 0-0 draw with Chelsea. Olivier Giroud believes the Premier League is Chelsea's this season but Arsenal will contend next season. Giroud (left) could not score against Chelsea on Sunday as the London rivals drew 0-0 at The Emirates. Giroud believes Arsenal will continue to improve and challenge Chelsea for the Premier League next year. Instead the Arsenal forward, who has scored 18 goals this season, claimed he gets annoyed with people commenting on his slick appearance. Giroud said: ‘I don’t want to speak any more about my appearance, my hair or anything, I get p***** about that. ‘I don’t know (if I am an animal). I know one thing, in sport you have to question yourself every week and be ready in your head and you have to be at 100 per cent of determination if you want to keep going and win games, you cannot afford to be at 80 or 90 per cent.’ The Gunners forward  gets annoyed with people commenting on his slick appearance. Striker Giroud (left) wants to end the season with Arsenal in second and another FA Cup victory. Arsene Wenger has not led Arsenal into second since 2005 but could manage to do so this season. Arsenal remain 10 points behind Chelsea in the title race but Giroud insists the Gunners will never change their approach. Giroud added: ‘I don’t know if [Chelsea] are boring - I have to ask my team-mates what they were singing because I don’t understand. ‘There is a table that speaks for them. It is true maybe they are not playing the same game as us, but we are not going to change our game and they are not going to change their game. They are pleased with that and if they are champions, what can you say?’

Arsenal forward Olivier Giroud has scored 18 goals this season. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger praised animal instincts of Frenchman. Arsenal remain 10 points behind leaders Chelsea in the title race. READ: Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil needs to produce in big games. Francis Coquelin: Giroud CAN lead Arsenal to the Premier League title.

Kevin Gameiro saved his goalkeeper's blushes with a late equaliser which put defending champions Sevilla into the last four of the Europa League. Beto had looked to have cost his side their progress, with the game heading towards extra time, before substitute Gameiro arrived to slot home with five minutes remaining. It had been a risk to start the Portuguese keeper, but Sevilla boss Unai Emery decided it one he was prepared to take, despite Beto's absence since a game against Real Madrid in the first week of February. Carlos Bacca slams home the early penalty after Vitolo had been brought down by Neto after five minute. Hulk celebrates his goal with Axel Witsel but Zenit couldn't hold on for extra time in the end. It was a gamble that spectacularly back-fired, with the keeper gifting Zenit two of the softest goals imaginable, to see the holders surrender a two-goal lead in the tie. First, just a matter of seconds after the half-time break, with Sevilla two goals up on aggregate a cruising, Beto dropped the ball, under no pressure, at the feet of Salomon Rondon, allowing the Venezuelan to rekindle the tie from a matter of yards. Then, when Brazilian forward Hulk hit a speculative, but not overly threatening shot from 40 yards, Beto could only flap it over his own line, turning the tie on its head and sending it towards extra time. But as Zenit looked to apply the pressure, and Beto attempted to atone himself with two stunning saves, one from each of the two goalscorers, the champions struck on the break. Bacca is mobbed by his Sevilla team-mates after putting them in complete control of the tie early on. Zenit: Lodygin, Criscito, Neto, Lombaerts, Smolnikov; Garcia, Witsel; Danny, Shatov, Hulk, Rondon (Kerzhakov 83 mins) Subs not used: Malafeev, Rodic, Anyukov, Tymoshchuk, Sheydaev, Arshavin. Goal: Rondon 48, Hulk 72. Booked: Neto, Witsel, Lodygin. Sevilla: Beto, Tremoulinas, Pareja (Iborra 22), Coke, Carrico, Vidal, Vitolo (Suarez 92), Banega, Mbia, Krychowiak, Bacca (Gameiro 72) Subs not used: Rico, Figueiras, Navarro, Reyes. Goal: Bacca 6, Gameiro 85. Booked: Iborra. It was a pulsating finish to a game that had started promisingly, but looked to have faded away somewhat in the first half. The Spanish side carried a slim lead, given them by a stunning Denis Suarez volley at the end of the first leg, into the second game, but Zenit were optimistic after scoring an away goal in Seville, which gave them a perceived edge. That advantage lasted little more than five minutes however, as defender Neto stupidly dived in on Sevilla winger Vitolo, to concede an early penalty. It was a bizarre challenge to make, with Vitolo running towards the byline, and the ball not even close to within winning distance. The contact may have been minimal, but the fact that it was there at all was as much down to Neto's stupidity as anything else, and it was hard to feel sympathy for the Portuguese defender. Carlos Bacca was not in the mood to show any mercy, dispatching the spot-kick beautifully, high into the top corner, and the visitors were in complete control. From then the pattern of play was set, with Sevilla inviting pressure, absorbing it, and hitting Zenit on the break. Indeed, the visitors, two goals ahead on aggregate and with the majority of the game in their own half, had much the better chances in the first period. Coke tries to get a shot away as Sevilla threatened on the break, before Zenit hit back in the second half. Zenit midfielder Axel Witsel challenges Sevilla's Benoit Tremoulinas during a tense first half. Aleix Vidal should have put them further in front, after out-pacing former Manchester City midfielder Javi Garcia, but he seemed to forget that running is not enough, failing to either pass or shoot and simply running into Yuri Lodygin. Soon after Bacca sprang the offside trap and rounded the Zenit keeper, only to see his shot cleared off the line by Igor Smolnikov. Andre Villas-Boas' team barely registered a shot before first-half stoppage time, the one exception coming in the 18th minute, when captain Danny exchanged passes with Hulk before seeing his near-post shot saved by Beto. But, as the first 45 approached its conclusion, the hosts suddenly produced a succession of chances, and could easily have got themselves back into the tie. Salomon Rondon, whose goal got Zenit back in the tie, was starved of service for long periods of the game. First Salomon Rondon, almost entirely ineffectual up front in the opening period, was gifted the ball three yards from goal following some dubious defending at a set piece, but the Venezuelan striker couldn't sort his feet out, and stumbled the ball away from target. Moments later Danny struck the base of the post with a vicious effort that suggested Zenit might have more to offer in the final quarter of the tie. Not that they could have expected the sort of favours that Beto handed them in the second period, and which looked to have at least earned them an extra 30 minutes. In the end though, it was the home side's defending that let them down, failing to keep the back door shut as they pushed for a winner, allowing Gameiro to do the damage.

Carlos Bacca puts Sevilla ahead from the spot after Vitolo was fouled. Salomon Rondon equalises following blunder from Beto. Beto gives away second goal when he turns Hulk shot over his own line. Kevin Gameiro wins the tie for Sevilla on break in closing minutes.

A canal bank beneath a busy flyover might not rank as paradise. But for this puzzled puffin – apparently suffering a navigation malfunction and pining for the Atlantic – it was welcome sanctuary. The confused bird was seen swimming in the Grand Union canal earlier this month after apparently flying into London along the Thames. This puzzled puffin was spotted flying into London along the Thames, close to the A4 flyover at Brentford. The distinctive bird with an orange beak was spotted by an eagle-eyed canal boat resident. The puffin was given some fish and wrapped in a blanket, before being handed to a specialist centre  in Dorset to recuperate. More commonly seen in Iceland and the North Atlantic, it was spotted near the A4 flyover at Brentford. Its holiday came to an end when a canal-boat resident caught sight of its distinctive beak and alerted the appropriate authorities. Steve Knight, of the Swan Sanctuary in nearby Shepperton, caught the bird, which has now been handed over to a specialist centre in Dorset, where he is being nursed back to full health. ‘I’ve never rescued a puffin before but these birds dive very quickly so you’ve got to be quick about it,’ he said.‘. 'All he knew about it was a big net coming over him and that was it. He looked pretty exhausted and hungry, and he seemed to have lost weight. The puffin was spotted swimming in the Grand Union Canal (left) while the species normally reside in Iceland. 'I gather they normally eat sand eels but there aren’t too many of them in the Grand Union, so we gave him some whitebait.’ Sanctuary founder Dot Beeson added she believes the puffin got lost or was blown off course by recent winds.

Bird was spotted near the A4 flyover at Brentford after flying along Thames. Eagle-eyed canal boat resident saw the puffin and contacted rescue agency. Puffins most commonly found in Iceland, but this bird 'blown off course'

Russia are on the brink of making the Fed Cup final with a 2-0 lead after Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova saved a match point to beat Germany's Sabine Lisicki on Saturday. Pavlyuchenkova saved the match point in the second set before going on to beat Lisicki 4-6, 7-6 (4), 6-3, after Svetlana Kuznetsova beat Julia Goerges in straight sets in the opening rubber. Pavlyuchenkova said Lisicki's power caused her problems: 'In the first set I believed I could win but I couldn't find the rhythm because she plays a bit boom-boom.' Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia beat Germany's Sabine Lisicki for a 2-0 lead in their Fed Cup tie. Svetlana Kuznetsova had earlier beaten Julia Goerges in straight sets. Both players had problems on their serve - Pavlyuchenkova racked up 13 double faults but Lisicki's 63 unforced errors proved crucial. 'It was very close and I had a match point but she played a good point on that. I didn't play a good tiebreaker,' Lisicki said. The result left Russia needing one win from Sunday's three matches to reach the final and bag a first Fed Cup title since 2008.

Svetlana Kuznetsova beats Julia Goerges in straight sets in Fed Cup. Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova defeats Sabine Lisicki for 2-0 lead.

Controversial wellness blogger Belle Gibson is still being investigated over claims she faked her cancer battles, despite reports police had dropped the investigation. Victoria Police had explored the option of criminal charges being levelled against Ms Gibson after people began to question her cancer claims and charity work last month. One of the charges being considered was obtaining financial advantage by deception, but it had been dropped, according to the Herald Sun. Scroll down for video. Belle Gibson: Doubt has been cast on the Whole Pantry founder's stories as people demand answers from the health guru. However, Victoria Police told Daily Mail Australia that its position in regards to the ongoing investigation, spearheaded by Consumer Affairs Victoria, had not changed. 'I know other things have been said this morning, but our approach is the same as it was yesterday and the day before that,' a Victoria Police spokeswoman said. Consumer Affairs Victoria said the investigation is continuing. 'As far as we're aware, nothing has changed,' a spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia. The decision comes after Ms Gibson has expressed concern over her family's safety in her first comments to media since she admitted her terminal cancer may have been 'misdiagnosed'. Doting young mum: Ms Gibson has expressed concern about her family's safety after her son's childcare details were allegedly placed online. In an interview with Daily Mail Australia, Ms Gibson claimed her son's childcare details, her home address and floor plan had been posted online amidst the fierce backlash against her. She said that was the reason 'police came to our home checking in on my safety' last week. Ms Gibson also hit out at some of her critics, saying that while she understood 'everyone's anger and confusion', some people had responded 'maliciously'. Ms Gibson's remarks came during a devastating 24 hours for her business, with local publisher Penguin Books and a U.S. publishing house dumping Ms Gibson's Whole Pantry recipe book. The Whole Pantry, a popular app, gained media attention because of Ms Gibson's remarkable story about cancer survival. 'Our address being posted online to a website... is not OK,' she said, providing Daily Mail Australia with screenshots of her address posted on Facebook. The Instagram star did not address questions concerning her cancer diagnosis, saying she would 'have a statement live this week' where she would address medical questions. 'Our address being posted online to a website... is not OK,' she said, providing Daily Mail Australia with screenshots of her address posted on Facebook. 'I do think it's important for myself and the company to recognise everyone's anger and confusion surrounding this last week, though this doesn't justify how others have perpetuated this or responded so maliciously.' She has not provided evidence of her childcare or floor plan claims at time of publication. Her remarks came during a devastating 24 hours for her business, with local publisher Penguin Books and a U.S. publishing house dumping Ms Gibson's Whole Pantry recipe book. The book had been written in conjunction with her hugely successful app of the same name, which is set to feature on the Apple Watch. The app gained popularity after Ms Gibson claimed she warded off a terminal brain cancer diagnosis through diet and a holistic approach to life. But after close friends last week cast doubt on these claims, Ms Gibson herself admitted in an interview with The Australian that an announcement last year that her cancer had spread to her liver, spleen, blood and uterus was a 'misdiagnosis'. Ms Gibson explained why she today wiped all her remaining photos from her Instagram account - some had already been removed - and had the Whole Pantry Facebook page deleted. 'At the end of the day, I am a human being on the receiving end of comments, questions and emails and even if the public are used to a digital interaction with me, it does not warrant some of the recent responses,' she said. The Whole Pantry was voted Apple's Best Food and Drink App of 2013 and will feature on the Apple Watch. The technology giant did not respond to Daily Mail Australia's requests for comment on Tuesday. She said the social media accounts were 'further encouraging interactions between those who were angry and encouraging personal data, information or other security-sensitive content to be shared or made light of. 'My son's childcare details were posted online in the midst of this, so I'm sure you can understand how unnecessary, concerning and threatening that is.' Ms Gibson said the statement she was writing was taking 'longer than anticipated' because of media requests and 'constantly arising issues', 'with the paramount focus being protecting the safety of myself and my son'. Victoria Police told Daily Mail Australia they visited an Elwood home last Tuesday evening 'as part of a welfare check. They left shortly after with nil concerns.' Some of Ms Gibson's former followers have taken to social media to try to 'expose' her - posting images of her drinking alcohol before she became a clean-living star and old claims about her battle with cancer. The Belle Gibson Uncovered Facebook page has been sharing images of her sipping beer. Clean-living Belle Gibson, seen here with a pint in her hand, told the friends who have spoken out about her to 'make yourself invisible to me, and my life' The administrators of the Belle Gibson Uncovered Facebook page, which has been sharing images of her sipping beer and champagne and eating vegan doughnuts, said they are doing so because Ms Gibson 'fiercely censors The Whole Pantry Facebook page'. 'The reason is simple, to educate and inform the many people who have already commented on this page feeling betrayed, deceived and let down by someone who they trusted,' they wrote. 'Many people followed this person, they believed in her and some even abandoned conventional medicine in favour of embracing her lifestyle in desperate hope they could cure their illnesses. On Monday afternoon, Australian publisher Penguin said it had been left with 'no other option' but to stop supplying her book in Australia. 'Despite our best endeavours, Penguin Books has not received sufficient explanation from Ms Gibson, author of The Whole Pantry recipe book, in response to recent allegations,' the comapny said in a statement. 'We remain hopeful that we will receive the formal assurances we have requested in the coming days. Ms Gibson has deleted thousands of photos and social media posts which directly reference her multiple cancer diagnoses, but an example of them - seen by Daily Mail Australia - can be found below:. Back in July 2013, Ms Gibson posted on The Whole Pantry Facebook page: 'It's unfortunate that there is someone on my Instagram trying to discredit the natural healing path I am on.' She went on to say: 'As always, with everything, this is my journey and I encourage you to do what is best for your body and situation with love and an open mind. 'I have been healing a severe and malignant brain cancer for the past few years with natural medicine, gerson therapy and foods. 'It's working for me and I am grateful to be here sharing this journey with over 70,000 people worldwide. Thank you for being here - xx Belle.' In a reference to her liver cancer, she posted on Instagram under her account @healing_belle, a photo of a pink smoothie enriched with 'extra support'. 'This one is for my rash (thanks, liver cancer), inflammation (thanks flying) and for general immunity.' In another Instagram post she wrote: 'Going from 6 weeks to live, to celebrating my fourth year with brain cancer, I know now that respecting your own journey and intuitively healing, listening and living as YOUR body, mind and path intended is staple.' In July 2014, she broke the news of further illness to her followers through an impassioned post to her personal Instagram page. It read in part: 'With frustration and ache in my heart // my beautiful, gamechanging community, it hurts me to find space tonight to let you all know with love and strength that I've been diagnosed with a third and fourth cancer. 'One is secondary and the other is primary. I have cancer in my blood, spleen, brain, uterus, and liver. I am hurting,' Ms Gibson wrote. About 12 weeks after the initial post she followed up, revealing she was undergoing 'German integrative oncology protocol'. The Whole Pantry (pictured above, in cookbook form) is also a popular app, which costs $3.79 to download. The app is slated to appear on the new Apple Watch.

Reports police dropped investigation into Belle Gibson's Whole Pantry. However, Victoria Police say its position has not changed. Police had been looking into charging Ms Gibson with deception. Consumer Affairs Victoria will now decide if any offences were committed. Ms Gibson expressed concern over her family's safety in remarks to Daily Mail Australia. Ms Gibson faced backlash since close friends cast doubt about her terminal cancer diagnosis. 'My son's childcare details were posted online,' she claimed, adding that her address and floor plan were also made available. The popular Instagram personality still has not addressed questions about her 'cancer diagnosis'

The light in these extraordinary images has travelled so far that it has taken 4,200 years to get here. But, despite the distance, scientists say the photographs reveal, like no others before them, the immense forces unleashed when a star is born. The two images were taken 18 years apart, the first with the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array in New Mexico in 1996 and the second by an international team of astronomers led by the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) last year. Scroll down for video. Astronomers have used a telescope in New Mexico to watch a star take shape over eight years. This simulation shows how the outflow of material from the star has dramatically expanded as it takes shape. A simulated image from 1996 is on the left, and another from 2014 is on the right. The star – known as W75N(B)-VLA2 – is 300 times brighter and eight times bigger than our sun, although it is masked by a black cloud of space dust. But what has most excited astronomers is the change in shape of the violet area of super-hot electrified winds that are being ejected by the young star. The dramatic changes, in a cosmic blink of an eye relative to the age of the universe, is giving an unprecedented look at how young ‘protostars’ develop into fully-fledged stars. The pictures, created by data from 27 radio telescope antennae in the New Mexico desert in the U.S., show the electrified wind expanding away from the star until it is slowed by the black and yellow cloud of dust surrounding it. These images of the star were taken by the��Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array in New Mexico. On the left is the star as seen in 1996, with its dust wrapped tightly around it, while by 2014 in the image on the right, this outflow has been pushed out into an elongated shape. This artist's illustration shows the development of W75N(B)-VLA-2. On the left, a hot wind from the young star expands nearly spherically, as seen in 1996. On the right right, as seen in 2014, the hot wind has been shaped by encountering a dusty, doughnut-shaped torus around the star and appears elongated. In the 1996 picture there is a relatively small region of space wind surrounding the star. But 18 years later that has expanded into a rugby-ball shape – because the dust has formed a doughnut shape around the star and offers less resistance to the space winds at its poles. Astronomer Carlos Carrasco-Gonzalez of the National Autonomous University of Mexico, said: ‘The comparison is remarkable. ‘We're seeing this dramatic change in real time, so this object is providing us an exciting opportunity to watch over the next few years as a very young star goes through the early stages of its formation.’ The team will now continue to observe the star and see how it develops over the next few years. ‘Our understanding of how massive young stars develop is much less complete than our understanding of how sun-like stars develop,’ Dr Carrasco-Gonzalez said. ‘It's going to be really great to be able to watch one as it changes. We expect to learn a lot from this object.' Take a look at the amount of fuel for star formation in the universe, compared to the number of stars, and you'll notice something strange - there should be 10 times as many stars as there are. It's a problem that has perplexed scientists, but a study in early March claimed to have an answer, saying that the heat in star-forming clouds may be hindering stellar formation. They say that the temperatures are likely too hot to allow reasonable amounts of star formation, which leads to the lower number of stars we observe in the cosmos today. 'The amount of fuel for star formation outpaces the amount of stars 10 times, so these clusters should be really star-rich,' said Dr Michael McDonald, a Hubble Fellow in Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research. 'You really need some mechanism to prevent gas from cooling, otherwise the universe would have 10 times as many stars.' The theory proposed by the researchers from MIT and Michigan State University suggests a number of reasons for why this is so. Researchers say that for some galaxy clusters the intracluster gas may simply be too hot - on the order of hundreds of millions of degrees Celsius. Even if one region experiences some cooling, the intensity of the surrounding heat would keep that region from cooling further - an effect known as conduction.

Astronomers have used a telescope in New Mexico to watch a star form. Named W75N(B)-VLA2 it is 300 times brighter than the sun. Images from 1996 and 2014 show how it is beginning to take shape. It could provide unprecedented insight into how huge stars are born.

A father of four has been shot dead after he was involved in a road rage incident and the man he brawled with returned to his property with a gun, police say. Thomas Brock, 30, died when he was fatally shot at his home in Pasadena, California, after being involved in an argument with another motorist. Police have now arrested brothers Steven Rodriguez, 24, and Jacob Rodriguez, 29, and charged them with capital murder following the alleged road rage killing. Police say Thomas Brock (left) had become involved in a traffic altercation in the lead up to his death. His widow Julie (right) said she and her husband had no idea who the men were. The violent standoff began about 9pm on Monday, when Mr Brock and one of the suspects got into an argument, the Houston Chronicle reported. Mr Brock was then followed to his home where the two had a fist fight, after which the alleged killer left the property but warned he would return. It is unclear which brother was involved from the start of the incident. Pasadena Police said he then returned with the second suspect. The two kicked down Mr Brock's front door, entered the house and shot him dead. Mr Brock's widow Julie Brock told KHOU: 'This is just unbelievable. 'We didn't even know these guys. They came and killed a man that was a wonderful husband and wonderful father.' Brothers Jacob Rodriguez (left) and Steven Rodriguez (right) have both been charged with capital murder in the wake of the fatal shooting. MrBrock, 30, was killed at his home in Pasadena following a fight with another motorist.

Thomas Brock, 30, was fatally shot following alleged road rage incident. Police say he was followed to his home where he fought with another man. The man left but returned soon after with a gun and shot him, police claim. Jacob and Steven Rodriguez have both been charged with capital murder.

The creator of the best-selling Alex Rider spy novels has accused fellow children’s author David Walliams of dumbing-down fiction and failing to ‘challenge’ young readers. Anthony Horowitz said books by the comedian – who was the UK’s top-selling children’s author last year – are ‘witty and entertaining’ but nowhere near ambitious enough. The 59-year-old novelist and screenwriter singled out Walliams’ Gangsta Granny for criticism, as well as the Diary Of A Wimpy Kid books by author Jeff Kinney. Scroll down for video. Author Anthony Horowitz (pictured right) said books by comedian David Walliams (left) – who was the UK’s top-selling children’s author last year – are ‘witty and entertaining’ but nowhere near ambitious enough. He insisted that such writers should challenge their young readers and not be ‘afraid of powerful stories or serious ideas’. He suggested they should follow the example of authors such as John Green and ‘write up for children, not down to them’. Green’s book, The Fault In Our Stars, tells the story of two teenagers who fall in love while they are both dying of cancer, and was the top-selling title of 2014, with more than 870,000 copies sold. Horowitz, who is also the principal writer on the ITV period detective drama Foyle’s War, singled out Gangsta Granny, with its breaking-wind jokes and a character who perpetuates the myth that children ‘automatically dislike reading’. Writing in the Times Educational Supplement, he said he was troubled that children’s books ‘seem to have come full circle’. Walliams made over £7million in 2014 from book sales including The Boy in the Dress and Demon Dentist. He added: ‘To some extent, narrative fiction was reinvented by JK Rowling – it’s hard to believe that children weren’t challenged by books that stretched to 760 pages – and a phalanx of writers crested on her success: Michael Morpurgo, Philip Pullman, Jacqueline Wilson, Malorie Blackman, Eoin Colfer, Darren Shan... and me. 'Today it is Jeff Kinney and David Walliams who top the bestseller lists, with books that are witty and entertaining but nowhere near as ambitious.’ He added: ‘Speaking personally, I was a little sad when, in Walliams’ Gangsta Granny, we were told that among the old woman’s vices, which included dribbling and farting: “Her house was stuffed full of books and she was always trying to get Ben to read them, even though he loathed reading”.’ Horowitz said ‘the idea that children automatically dislike reading or that books belong to a more fusty, ancient generation is patently absurd’. His Alex Rider books, the first of which was published in 2000, have been ‘brightly re-jacketed’, and are ‘as popular as ever’. They have sold 19million copies in 30 different languages, he pointed out. Horowitz said: ‘Quite recently, I addressed an audience of largely unpublished writers in New York and I stand by the advice that I gave them. ‘Write up for children, not down to them. We don’t need to be afraid of powerful stories or serious ideas. The audience is there.’ Walliams last year made more than £7million from book sales. The 43-year-old Britain’s Got Talent judge had four books in last year’s top 50 bestsellers list. His latest book, Awful Auntie, sold more than 500,000 copies last year. The success of his books, which also include Ratburger and Billionaire Boy, has also been boosted by television adaptations, such as The Boy in the Dress, which starred Walliams, Meera Syal and Jennifer Saunders, and was shown on the BBC at Christmas.

Author Anthony Horowitz has accused David Walliams of dumbing down. Claims Walliams fails to challenge young readers with unambitious books. Horowitz argues authors should not be afraid of 'powerful stories or ideas'

A house used by five generations of the same family has been put on the market for the first time in 100 years. The two-bedroom terraced property in Snodland, Kent, was first rented by Len and Beatrice Barnes in November 1915. The couple raised their son Gordon and three daughters, Freda, Hilda and Gwendoline, in the property, which used to have an outside bathroom. A house used by five generations of the same family has been put on the market for the first time in 100 years. It was originally rented by Len and Beatrice Barnes (above) in November 1915. They bought it 40 years later for £350 and passed it to Freda when they died. Their 10 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren have enjoyed the house for the last few decades. But Freda died last December, aged 99, and the younger family members have now moved away. Howard Knott, 70, son of Hilda, is in charge of selling the house, which is on the market for £164,500. Mr Knott, a retired engineer who now lives with his family in Maldon, Essex, said the house means so much to the family but the decision to sell it was 'inevitable'. He said: 'Freda lived there all of her life. 'I lived there at some point when I was a baby but then we moved nearby to Queens Avenue in Snodland. 'My grandfather's brother Roger lived in it for some years between the First and Second World Wars, so there were three adults and four children living in one property with no bathroom and no electricity.' Mr Knott's grandfather Len was a small haulage contractor and was not required to serve in the First World War. Sisters (left to right) Gwendoline, Freda and Hilda were brought up in the house before it was passed to Freda when their parents died. Simon Miller estate agents is holding an open day at the house (above), which is on the market for £164,500, tomorrow. Howard Knott (right), son of Hilda, is now selling the house after Freda (left aged 19) died in December. His father served with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers in the Second World War. Mr Knott joined the Royal Air Force when he was 16 and trained as a radar engineer. He later worked at Marconi radio factory in Chelmsford, Essex. He moved to Essex in 1970, and his mother and aunt Gwen also relocated to the county. Simon Miller estate agents is holding an open day at the house tomorrow.

Two-bedroom property first rented by Len and Beatrice Barnes in 1915. Brought it 40 years later for £350 before passing it to daughter Freda. Family have now all moved away and house is on market for £164,500.

The biggest pension reforms in a century have been met with confusion as customers as young as 23 try to cash in their retirement savings. Pension firms said Britons remained baffled about how the radical changes worked, with many unaware of age restrictions or tax implications. Since Monday, over-55s have been able to withdraw all or part of their pension pots instead of being forced to buy a regular pension income for life, known as an annuity. And yesterday, the first people to cash in their pots began to receive their money. Scroll down for video. Since Monday, over-55s have been able to withdraw all or part of their pension pots instead of being forced to buy a regular pension income for life, known as an annuity. The Government had said that everyone over the age of 55 who wanted to take part in the new pension freedoms would be given a free half-hour session of guidance but just 300 advisers are available (file picture) But one major provider reported that customers in their 20s had been calling up to withdraw their retirement savings – unaware they were three decades too young. Others were unaware they faced a hefty tax bill if they removed all their cash at once. The confusion was not helped by a decision to pull the plug on television adverts promoting the Government's pensions helpline. The Treasury said that, ahead of the election, it had switched to a 'low level' advertising campaign for its Pension Wise guidance service and dropped its television adverts for almost two months. 'Purdah' rules bar Government advertising campaigns before a general election so that it does not promote the cause of a certain political party. But experts said barring TV adverts which raise awareness of the pension changes would punish consumers, some of whom were already confused by the changes. Experts fear pensioners could be vulnerable if they do not receive proper advice regarding pension plans now that over-55s can cash in their pensions and spend them  instead of being forced to buy an annuity (file image) David Trenner, of Intelligent Pensions, said it was 'crazy to stop advertising Pension Wise under Purdah rules', while Catriona Standingford, who runs a financial training firm, asked on Twitter: Shouldn't the consumer/taxpayer come first?.' The Treasury said the service will only be advertised through print and digital advertising for April and most of May. Pensions firm Fidelity Worldwide Investment said it had taken 1,300 calls about the pension freedoms in the last week alone. But several calls a day have been from people under-55 trying to access their cash, including a 23-year-old who mistakenly believed they could 'get hold of their pot now'. Richard Parkin, of Fidelity, said: 'Misunderstandings exist around when you can access your funds. 'Since the new freedoms were announced, we've received a steady number of calls from people under the age of 55 who think they can access their funds under the new rules.'

Pension firms said Britons remain baffled about how radical changes work. Over-55s are now able to withdraw all or part of their pension pots. Some customers in their 20s have been trying to withdraw retirement savings, despite being three decades too young. Others do not know they face hefty tax bill if they remove all cash at once.

The days of the weather man could be numbered. Researchers from London and Edinburgh are developing a computer that can collate meteorological information and then produce forecasts as if they were written by a human. Useing a process known as 'natural language generation' (NLG), it has the potential to one day be used in humanoid robots on our TV screens. The days of weather presenters (stock image) could be numbered .Researchers from London and Edinburgh have developed a computer that can collate meterological information and then produce forecasts as if they were written by a human. It uses a process known as 'natural language generation' (NLG) These computer-generated weather updates are being being tested by scientists at Heriot-Watt University and University College London. Using Met Office data, the researchers are developing new algorithms for automatically generating detailed reports. If the project is successful, a prototype system will be tested by generating local weather reports on the BBC's website. Currently, the BBC website features 10 reports written by meteorologists. Each of these forecasts cover a large area of the country, such as London and South East England, but there are more than 20,000 individual locations that need tailored reports. Using Met Office data, the researchers are developing new algorithms for automatically generating weather reports. If the project is successful a prototype system will be tested by generating local weather reports on the MailOnline's website (shown), which currently features just 10 reports for large areas of the country. NLG is the process of producing readable texts in English, or other languages, automatically on a computer. Typically, the program starts with statistics and figures, or any information that isn't written in language. This includes tables of numerical data or a collection of entries in a database. NLG is the process of producing readable texts in English, or other languages, automatically on a computer. Typically, the program starts with statistics and figures, or any information that isn't written in language. These includes tables of numerical data or a collection of entries in a database. Alternatively, NLG will rephrase a block of texts to make it easier to read and understand. It is often referred to as a translator that converts computer speak into natural language, which is tricky for computers due to variances in tone and grammar. Alternatively, NLG will rephrase a block of text to make it easier to read and understand. It is often referred to as a translator that converts computer speak into natural language, which is tricky for computers due to variances in tone and grammar. The project is called Domain-Independent Language Generation (DILiGENt) and is being run by Dr Verena Rieser from Heriot-Watt University's School of Mathematical and Computer Science, with Dr Andreas Vlachos and Dr Sebastian Riedel from the Computer Science department at University College London. 'Machine learning for Natural Language Processing (NLP) is what DILiGENt is all about,' said Dr Rieser. 'Large companies such as Microsoft, Amazon and Yahoo are making substantial new investments in this field and there are start-up opportunities emerging. 'The UK is a world leader in this kind of research but we are under-represented in using machine learning approaches for NLG. This project will help to strengthen this research strand.' These developments could also help overcome problems with Apple's Siri or Google Voice which often offer repetitive responses to questions or directions.

Researchers are developing a computer that can write weather forecasts. It takes meteorological data and writes a report designed to mimic a human. This process is known as 'natural language generation' (NLG) A prototype system will be tested on the BBC website later this year.

A former elementary school teacher who police say was obsessed with one of her 11-year-old students has waived a preliminary hearing on a felony charge that she interfered with the girl's legal custody. Geraldine Alcorn, 29, of Pittsburgh, and her attorney declined to comment as they walked from a city magistrate's courtroom Wednesday. In exchange for the waiver — which means Alcorn must now stand trial on the charge or take some kind of plea bargain — Allegheny County prosecutors dropped two other misdemeanors she faced: luring a child into a vehicle and corruption of minors. Leaving court: Geraldine Alcorn, left, leaves court on Wednesday April 1, 2015, in Pittsburgh after waiving a preliminary hearing on  Wednesday on a felony charge that she interfered with the girl's custody. Geraldine Alcorn, pictured walking to court on Wednesday, allegedly encrypted her phone number on the girl's math homework, exchanged thousands of text messages with her and even spoke of adopting her. Obsessed teacher: Geraldine Alcorn, 28, faces multiple charges for 'obsessively' texting an 11-year-old student. Prosecutors, who also declined to comment, allege Alcorn encrypted her phone number on the girl's math homework, exchanged thousands of text messages with her and even talked of adopting and running away with the girl before Alcorn resigned last month. The girl's mother, a single parent, complained to school officials after finding out Alcorn had visited the girl at their home while the mother was working. The mother then found stickers and letters from Alcorn in the girl's school binder, plus two letters the girl wrote to Alcorn with three headings: 'Things Ms. Alcorn and I can do,' ''what we can do,' and 'when we can do it,' the criminal complaint said. The girl told police she and Alcorn kept their relationship secret and, among other things, Alcorn discussed adopting the girl or taking her from her home. Alcorn had told the girl that 'they would be on the run for a while,' if Alcorn followed through on that, police said. Alcorn is not believed to have sexual feelings for the girl but allegedly told police of a 'deep love' she has for her. Pittsburgh Public Schools officials learned Feb. 13 that 'a teacher had developed an improper attachment' with a student at Pittsburgh Beechwood, a pre-K-5 school. Alcorn resigned March 2. Police said she tried to contact the girl on March 13, a Friday, when Alcorn returned to gather her personal belongings. The following Monday, police said, the girl found 'gifts and several letters, some encrypted, in her locker and desk,' according to the criminal complaint. 'The letters, written by Alcorn, instructed the 11-year-old female to contact her.' Alcorn hid her phone number on a math worksheet by telling the girl to dial numbers that had been circled, police said. Planned to run away: Geraldine Alcorn, left, leaving court on Wednesday, told the little girl she planned to run away with her and adopt her. Talked of going on the run: Attorney, Michael Worgul, left, leads Geraldine Alcorn, center left, down the steps from court Wednesday after she was accused of 'interfering with the child's custody' Didn't stop contact: Alcorn continued to contact the student even after she was forced to resign and warned to stay away from the 11-year-old, police say.

Geraldine Alcorn, 29, of Pittsburgh waived a preliminary hearing on a felony charge that she interfered with the parental custody of her 11-year-old student. In exchange for the waiver prosecutors dropped two misdemeanors Alcorn faced: luring a child into a vehicle and corruption of minors. Police believe her interest in the child was not sexual, but it was obsessive and she allegedly told the girl she wanted to run away with her. The girl's mother, a single parent, complained to school officials after finding out Alcorn had visited the girl at their home while the mother was working.

A sailor who vanished after heading out to sea more than two months ago has miraculously been found alive and well off the North Carolina coast. Louis Jordan, 37, was picked up by a German-flagged ship at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday - 66 days after he took off to do some fishing. He was found sitting on the capsized hull of his sailboat, Angel, which had lost its mast and was approximately 200 miles east of Cape Hatteras. 'They saw me on the front of my boat standing up there waving my arms,' he told the Today show of the huge German ship after he left hospital. 'And they turned that huge skyscraper around.' A Coast Guard helicopter crew from North Carolina flew to the ship and airlifted Jordan to a hospital in Norfolk, Virginia, said Lt. Krystyn Pecora, a spokeswoman for the Coast Guard. Scroll down for videos. Found safe: Louis Jordan, second from left, walks from the Coast Guard helicopter to the Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia, after being found off the North Carolina coast on Thursday. Jordan's family said he sailed out of a marina in Conway, South Carolina, on January 23, and hadn't been heard from since until a German boat saw him clinging to the hull of his boat on Thursday morning. Rescue: A Coast Guard image shows Jordan being pulled up into the helicopter from a German ship. Safe: One of his rescuers pulls him into the helicopter after he spent more than two months at sea. Heading home: Another image shows Jordan inside the helicopter as they head towards a hospital. Incredibly, she said Jordan was in good condition despite a broken collarbone and dehydration. He survived his ordeal by drinking rain water and eating raw fish and flour fried in oil. As he walked towards the hospital unaided, he did not appear to have lost a drastic amount of weight. He was released from the hospital on Friday. He also told the Today show that he repeatedly read his Bible from cover to cover to pass the time but that the ordeal 'seemed like a lot longer' than 66 days. While stranded, he had dreamed of eating barbecue and organic ice cream, he said. Back on land, he was reunited with his relieved parents. 'I was just praying about you because I was afraid you guys were crying and sad, that, you know, I was dead...and I wasn't dead,' Jordan told his father, WITN reported. His father Frank responded: 'I thought I lost you.' Doing well: Jordan appeared in good health when he was brought to shore. He spoke to the Today show, pictured, after he left hospital and said he didn't know if he'd ever return to sea. Reunited: Jordan is pictured hugging his father Frank after they were reunited following his ordeal. Back together: He said he had been concerned that his parents, Frank and Norma, would think he was dead. Relief: His mother, Norma Davis, said she had given up hope of her son returning 'many time' Speaking to the Today show, his mother, Norma Davis, said it had been an emotional two months and that she had given up hope 'many times'. 'It's been terrible,' she said. 'You live moment to moment and those moments turned into days.' Jordan's 35-foot sailboat had drifted out into the ocean and capsized, snapping the mast. 'My boat got flipped and did a 180 on me while I was sleeping at night, and I was flying through the air and somersaulting and all my junk and all my equipment, all my GPS devices and everything, even my stove dislodged and it was all flying with me, all rolling around,' he told ABC News. But he was unable to repair the mast as he had broken his collarbone when the boat flipped over. He waited for the shoulder to heal slightly before he was able to build up enough strength to fashion a makeshift mast and sail - but he was unable to fight the strong currents, he said, and the boat capsized on two further occasions. He caught rainwater in a bucket and, although he struggled to catch fish at first, he learned that they were attracted to his clothes when he put them in the ocean to clean them, CNN reported. The fish would swim through his clothes so he would scoop them up with a hand net, he said. The tanker crew said it found Jordan sitting on the hull of his boat. On Thursday night Davis posted on Facebook that she had spoken to her son and that he was in 'good spirits and hungry' Rescuers found Jordan sitting on the hull of his 35-foot sailboat that had lost its mast and capsized some 200 miles east off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Jordan had been living on his docked sailboat at the Bucksport Plantation Marina in Conway, South Carolina, until January, when he told his family he was 'going into the open water to sail and do some fishing,' his mother said. The family had not heard from him since, she said. 'We expected him to come back and he did not return,' Davis said. 'We knew something happened. To us it's just a miracle. We're just so thrilled that he was found alive... It's been very difficult not knowing anything and I just feel like all of our prayers have come true. They've been answered.' 'We just talked to Louis Jordan-sounded wonderful,' she wrote on Facebook on Thursday night. 'He said that he felt our prayers. He is in good spirits and hungry!' In the weeks before their son was found, Frank wrote about his sadness and worry and asked for prayers on his Facebook page. Two weeks after his disappearance, the father wrote: 'When your son disappears and the weeks wear on, and the weather is cold and the Atlantic is stormy and wild, many horrible thoughts begin to go through your mind, and you begin to unravel. Vessel: Jordan is pictured on his 35-foot boat. It capsized at sea in January, causing the mast to snap off. At sea: Jordan had been living on his docked sailboat in Conway, South Carolina, before he told his family he was 'going into the open water' to go fishing more than two months ago. 'Your life becomes a muddled jumble of prayers and tears and doubts. That is when friends gather around you to lend their support and prayers, too. It is so, so much appreciated.' A few weeks later, he added: 'Nothing from or about Louis. You don't know whether to mourn or what. When they're lost at sea, only God knows where they are. 'But by God, He does. Louis is in His loving hands, and that is enough to know. Thanks for all the messages of concern, a living, moving tribute to his sweet and gentle soul.' Then on Thursday, he could finally write: 'Good news - My son Louis Gregory Jordan was picked up by a freighter several hundred miles off Cape Hatteras.' Jordan had spent months sanding and painting his docked 1950s-era, single-masted sailboat in Conway, where marina manager Jeff Weeks said he saw him nearly every day. Jordan was the only resident in a section of about 20 boats docked behind a coded security gate, Weeks said. 'You'll probably never meet a nicer guy,' Weeks said. 'He is a quiet gentleman that most of the time keeps to himself. He's polite. I would describe him as a gentle giant:' measuring 6-foot-2 and weighing 230 pounds. Rescued: Mr Jordan is pulled up into the helicopter after being attached to a device by a rescuer. Rleief: The sailor, who was lost for more than two months, is reeled into the rescue chopper. Salvation: A rescuer is hoisted up after attaching Louis Jordan to the winch. Jordan appeared to be knowledgeable about wild fruits and mushrooms and fished for his meal in inland waterways, Weeks said. But his January trip may have been his first time sailing in the open ocean. 'He might sail up and down the Intercoastal Waterway, but he didn't have the experience he needed to go out into the ocean,' Weeks said. Records show that Louis Jordan sailed out of the marina in Conway, on January 23, aboard the sailboat Angel, said Marilyn Fajardo, a spokeswoman for the Coast Guard's 7th District. Fajardo said the Coast Guard in Miami was notified by Frank Jordan on January 29 that he hadn't seen or heard from his son in a week. One week later, Davis confirmed their son was still missing. Fajardo said alerts were issued from New Jersey to Miami to be on the lookout for Jordan and his sailboat. Officials also searched financial data to determine whether Jordan actually had come ashore without being noticed, but found no indication that he had, she said. Officials searched financial data to determine whether Jordan actually had come ashore without being noticed, but found no indication that he had. Chief Petty Officer Ryan Doss said Jordan's 35-foot sailboat had lost its mast and capsized. The German tanker crew said it found Jordan sitting on the hull. A search was begun on February 8, but Fajardo said the Coast Guard abandoned its efforts after 10 days. Despite reports from other sailors claiming to have seen Jordan's sailboat, none of the sightings were confirmed and the case was suspended. The Coast Guard said Jordan didn't file a 'float plan,' the nautical equivalent of a flight plan, to determine his route or destination, and Fajardo said there wasn't enough information to narrow down his whereabouts. Davis said she is looking forward to celebrating her son's return. 'We do plan on having a wonderful Easter celebration with family and I can't wait to get him back,' she said - but neither she nor her son were sure he'd ever head back to see. 'I don't know,' he responded. See below for video.

Louis Jordan, 37, had been missing at sea for more than two months before he was picked up off the North Carolina coast by a ship on Thursday. Jordan had told his family in January that he was 'going into the open water' to go fishing but the boat capsized and the mast broke. He was found sitting on the capsized hull of his sailboat and plucked from the sea by a helicopter. He had a broken collarbone and was dehydrated but looked in good health and was able to walk to the hospital unaided. 'To us it's just a miracle. We're just so thrilled that he was found alive,' said his mother Norma Davis. Jordan told rescuers he survived drinking rain water and eating raw fish and read a bible repeatedly from cover to cover.

Google is facing a fine of up to £4billion as Europe prepares to file a high-profile anti-competition lawsuit against the internet giant. The EU has been investigating the US search engine for five years following complaints that it abuses its dominance in the continent - but proceedings have stalled on three previous occasions. Now the European Commission, the EU's top antitrust authority, is asking companies who previously filed confidential complaints against Google for permission to publish them, so that officials can begin to build a case against the firm. If found to have been behaving unfairly, Google could be fined ten per cent of its annual revenues, which would be more than £4 billion based on last year's performance. Facing huge fine: Google is facing a fine of up to £4billion as Europe prepares to file a high-profile anti-competition lawsuit against the internet giant. Shopping, comparison and travel companies are among those that have been contacted by the EU, The Wall Street Journal reports. US companies Microsoft and Trip Advisor are among those that have filed complaints against Google with the EU. A decision to file charges would kick start the EU's most prominent antitrust suit since its ten year-long campaign against Microsoft Corp. - the firm was forced to pay out more than a £1billion in fines in 2012. The specific document the EU is said to be preparing is referred to as a Statement of Objections. Once filed, it's likely that a number of deeper investigations, counter-statements, and settlement discussions would ensue. If the search engine and the EU cannot come to an agreement, then fines could be issued and restrictions placed on Google's behavior. Leading investigation: New EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager has suggested she favours pursuing legal action against Google over pushing for a settlement. The company would then have the right to appeal the case to the highest European court. Even if it is settled without a huge fine, antitrust cases can be hugely disruptive for firm, as Microsoft discovered. The European Commission has also been investigating whether Google has been 'scraping' content from rivals' sites, and placing unreasonable restrictions on advertisers and software developers who do business with them. A 'preliminary view' taken by the commission in March 2013 was that Google was abusing its dominant position in a number of areas. The company has denied any wrongdoing. Speaking in Berlin last week, Kent Walker, the company's Senior Vice President & General Counsel, highlighted the 'painfully long list of unsuccessful Google products', including Google+ and Street View in Germany, as proof that competition laws were serving their purpose. Long-running dispute: Former EU antitrust chief Joaquin Almunia, above, made three unsuccessful attempts to resolve the dispute between Google and its European rivals. The EU's investigation of complaints that Google abuses its dominance of the online search market to hurt rivals began in 2010. The US company handles more than 90 per cent of Web searches in Europe - considerably higher than its share of the US market. Comparison-shopping sites claim that when consumers use Google to search for products online, Google positions results from Google Shopping prominently. The argument is that this relegates products from rival sites to positions lower down the search page, where they might not be seen. Margrethe Vestager, the EU's new antitrust chief, has suggested she will pursue legal action rather than seek a settlement. Google and Commissioner Vestager’s predecessor, Joaquin Almunia, made three attempts to resolve the dispute, but in each case intense pressure by national governments, Internet rivals and privacy advocates scuppered the effort. The latest settlement proposed by Mr. Almunia fell apart following a series of interventions by powerful political players, including a letter from the economy ministers of France and Germany calling for greater concessions from Google, and protests from German publishing houses. In November the European Parliament passed a resolution calling for a possible breakup of Google, brushing aside an unusual series of objections from the US Congress that the move risked politicizing an antitrust investigation. Ms. Vestager met a month ago with Eric Schmidt, Google's executive chairman. Last week, she indicated that her priority was to ensure that smaller Internet firms could compete with the industry's giants.

EU has been investigating the US search giant's practises for five years. 3 previous attempts to settle matter have stalled due to political pressure. One complaint is that Google Search leads users on to the firm's own sites. Current case could result in Google being fined 10% of its annual revenues.

Measuring 30cm high and made entirely from cake, these amazing hand-crafted designs are a luxury alternative to traditional Easter eggs. The incredibly detailed works of art were inspired by Faberge's famous jewelled eggs, and painstakingly created by 14 of the UK's top cake artists. Each of the intricate treats is entirely edible and were made using a range of decorating techniques and sugar work. Scroll down for video. Yellow Bee Cake Company's amazing violet and gold carousel which features cakes as rides instead of the usual animals. Purple cake with gold detailing and purple roses by Rose Marie's cake (left) and Zee Chik Cakes' peephole egg with sugar work figurine (right) The eggs were created as part of a feature for Cake Masters Magazine - and feature in this month's edition, with Easter just around the corner. Rosie Mazumder, editor of Cake Masters Magazine, said: 'The eggs that have been created for this feature are just fantastic. 'The attention to detail and the hours spent working on the eggs shows in the presentation of each individual one. 'The eggs were on display at Cake International in London last weekend, and it was great to get a closer look at them all.' The creations take their inspiration from the iconic Russian eggs created by jeweller Peter Carl Faberge which were famously gifted to figures including the Tsars Alexander III and Nicholas II. Textured masterpiece: Cakeium's frosted blue base is decorated with gold icing and beading as is the egg itself. A fairy sits on a pedestal in the middle of this cake made by by Suzanne Thorp of The Frostery which also features clover leaves and a hand-painted plaque of Mary Berry. Laura Jane Cake Design's egg features hand painting and brush embroidery (left). Laura Loukaides, from Laura Loukaides Cakes was inspired by the 1914 mosaic egg created for Nicholas II of Russia for her black, gold and white cake (right) The extremely detailed cakes are individually designed, including a British themed Union Jack egg and one dedicated to master baker Mary Berry from The Great British Bake Off. Jacqui Kelly from Totally Sugar, who created the patriotic Union Jack egg, said: 'I am a Scots girl at heart but London is my adopted home. 'And when I drive along the river in the evenings, the lights of the London skyline take my breath away every time. So it was easy to draw inspiration when I knew the eggs would be displayed at the ExCeL in London.' Laura Loukaides, from Laura Loukaides Cakes, said: 'My egg is inspired by one of my favourite Fabergé designs - the 1914 Mosaic egg created for Nicholas II of Russia. Cupcake Oven's pink, green and gold cake was made using a special cake enamelling technique,  royal icing piping, and golden sugar roses. Totally Sugar's cake features the Union Jack and London landmarks including the Millennium Dome, London Eye and Tower Bridge. Bella Baking's egg cake is covered in sugarpaste and all the decoration is piped in royal icing. 'The craftsmanship and detail is just incredible. I wanted to combine the jewelled effect with my favourite colour scheme - black, gold and pearl. 'I love how black diamonds look in fine jewellery so I wanted to replicate the style by creating a diamond encrusted egg using individually placed sugar pearls.' Suzanne Thorp, from The Frostery, said: 'Faberge created these lavish eggs for Russian royalty - so I thought about our "Queen of Cakes", Mary Berry. 'My egg is in appreciation of her. The inspiration came from the 1902 Clover Leaf egg and it includes clover leaves, a hand-painted plaque and a sugar fairy as the surprise.' Yellow Bee Cake Company's Vicky Turner said:  'As soon as I saw the Fabergé carousel eggs, I knew that would be my inspiration for my own egg. 'I wanted to give the egg a cake theme so, instead of horses, I've used cakes. You'll even spot my first ever hidden scene cake in there, amongst slices of cakes and a tiny model of a crab on a cupcake.' Ceri Badham and Linda Donnelly make up the mother and daughter team of Fancy Cakes by Linda. Fancy Cakes by Linda's (left) pink egg cake features spring flowers made from sugar paste and was made by a mother-daughter team.  A 1920s flapper girl perches on top of Pimp My Cake's pastel blue creation which was inspired by Lily of the Valley style eggs  (right) Mrs Donnelly said:'Our design is inspired by the beautiful pink and gold Fabergé eggs. The colours work beautifully together. 'Fabergé eggs have a very ornate presence and we wanted to keep this in our design, but also add our own style. 'We created oval plaques with rich gold moulded edging, in keeping with Fabergé, and inside, we placed hand-crafted sugar flowers inspired by the four seasons of weather in the UK.' Calli Hopper of Callicious Cakes was inspired by art. She said: 'I was inspired by a Baroque/Rococo theme for my Faberge egg. I came across a series of delightful late 18th century illustrations by German artist Felix Schlesinger, who did a series of rustic paintings. 'As we are nearing Easter, I thought this an endearing theme to reproduce and hand paint.' Diana Woolmer of Dee's Sweet surprise said: 'My favourite Fabergé eggs are the ones decorated in pearls with lots of gold detail. This is my style of cake decorating so, for me, this is what I had to go with in terms of design. I kept my colours simple and let the gold do its thing.' Calli Hopper, who runs Callicious Cakes, was inspired by 18th century illustrations by German artist Felix Schlesinger. 'The hardest part of the process for me was the design part, my head was full with too many ideas,' she continued. 'In the end I ditched the sketch pad, covered my egg in icing and just went to work with what felt right. Each pearl was added individually and I even made some of my own silicone moulds for some of the details. The egg took me around five days to finish.' Rhu Strand of Pimp My Cake said: 'My inspiration came from the Lily of the Valley style eggs. 'My passion in sugar is creating figurines; I was drawn to the Lily egg and instantly wanted to include a 1920s flapper girl. I have used wire work to create the stems and sugar pearls for the flowers.' Inga Ruby-Burn of Bella Baking said: 'My egg is inspired by the series of exquisite Imperial Faberge eggs, which were made for the Russian Imperial family between 1885 and 1916. During that time period, ornate royal iced cakes were affordable only to the very wealthy and so it seemed only appropriate to pipe all the decoration on to my egg. The main covering represents a speckled duck egg.' The Cake Masters Magazine Sugar Eggs Collection went on display at the ExCel in London from March 27 to 29 with more than 1.2 million visitors flocking to see the elegant edible treats. Diana Woolmer who runs Dee's Sweet Surprise took five days to complete her cake, adding each golden pearl individually by hand.

Stunning creations made by UK's top cake artists and shown at the Cake International exhibition in London. Bakers used a range of decorating techniques and detailed sugar work to make the stunning cakes. Every part of the ornate bakes is edible from the hand moulded sugar beads to sugar-work figurines. Each cake egg measures 30cm high and was created as part of a feature for Cake Masters Magazine.

She was just eight when she first attended the Maundy Day service. The then Princess Elizabeth was photographed in 1935 at Westminster Abbey in her smart bonnet and buttoned-up coat. It would be another 18 years before her coronation. Eighty years on, the Queen yesterday gave out Maundy coins in the pre-Easter tradition. Resplendent in a turquoise coat by Stewart Parvin and matching hat, the Queen was all smiles as she arrived at Sheffield Cathedral for the traditional ceremony. Eighty years ago: The then Princess Elizabeth was pictured in Westminster Abbey at the service in 1935. Handing out alms: The Queen presents a lady with the two Maundy Purses at Sheffield Cathedral. Joined by the Duke of Edinburgh, Her Majesty was there to present 'alms' to 89 women and 89 men, among them D-Day veteran, Denis Gratton. 'It was just quick. I'm not very good at hearing,' said Mr Gratton, 91, after the ceremony. 'She did say something but I'm not sure what it were.' The Queen, who had arrived on the Royal Train, was driven to the cathedral where she got a warm welcome from the flag-waving crowd and was presented with a nosegay of spring flowers. Met at the church door by Peter Bradley, the Dean of Sheffield, and the local Bishop, Steven Croft, Her Majesty spoke briefly to the clergymen before being whisked inside for the service. After the hour-long service, the Queen posed for pictures with the Yeoman of the Guard, who had lined the cathedral's aisles during the ceremony. The Royal party then left for a reception at Sheffield Town Hall as the recipients emerged into the sunshine, all pleased with their royal acknowledgement. Patricia Durkin, 72, said: 'It was brilliant, absolutely wonderful. When I got here the atmosphere was tremendous.' The Royal Maundy Service is one of the UK's oldest royal customs and sees the monarch distribute alms in the shape of two purses of specially minted coins. This year, the Red Purse contains a £5 coin, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the death of Winston Churchill and a 50p coin commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Custom: Monarchs have been presenting Maundy Money since 1210 and King John. Commemorative: The red and white bags contain commemorative coins, this year featuring Winston Churchill. Thank you: A gentleman looks pleased as he receives his commemorative coins from the Queen. Bodyguard: The Queen was accompanied by the Yeoman of the Guard who carried in the purses. Signing up: The Queen signed the visitor's book at Sheffield Cathedral before she left. Tradition: The Queen and Prince Philip were handed traditional nosegays made from spring flowers. Historically, this sum of £5.50 in the Red Purse is made up of £3 for clothing, £1.50 in lieu of provisions and £1 for the redemption of the Sovereign's gown. The White Purse contains uniquely minted Maundy Money, which, unlike coins in general circulation, bear the portrait of the Queen produced by Mary Gillick at the start of her reign. Gillick, a sculptor, designed the portrait which appeared on the coins of the UK and some Commonwealth countries from 1953 until preparations for decimalisation began in 1968. The portrait of the Queen wearing a wreath on her head was considered to reflect the nation's optimism as it greeted a new monarch in the post-war years. The Royal Maundy is an ancient ceremony which has its origin in the commandment Christ gave after washing the feet of his disciples the day before Good Friday. Warm welcome: The Queen is greeted at Sheffield Cathedral ahead of the traditional Royal Maundy Service. Jaunty: The Queen, looking wonderful in turquoise, arrived in the state Bentley with the Duke of Edinburgh. Cheerful: The Duke of Edinburgh was on jolly form as he arrived for the service. Busy week: The Queen will also appear at church in Windsor on Easter Sunday. Meeting: The Queen speaks to the Dean and Bishop of Sheffield ahead of the Royal Maundy Service. In an echo of the Last Supper, mediaeval and Tudor monarchs also washed the feet of beggars during the service. Unlike the nosegay, which was originally introduced as a means of disguising the repellent smell, that custom failed to survive the 18th century. The first monarch to take part in a Maundy Thursday service was King John, of Magna Carta and Robin Hood fame, who distributed gifts of clothes and money to the poor in Knaresborough in 1210. John was also the first to present the poor with silver coins and is recorded as having done so in Rochester in 1213. John's grandson Edward I, the king known to posterity as 'the Hammer of the Scots', was the first to confine the tradition to Maundy Thursday alone, which, until his reign, could be conducted on any day of the year. Recipient: One of the men receiving Maundy Money clutches his ticket as he arrives for the service. Enthusiastic: A little girl waves as the Queen's Bentley pulls up outside the Cathedral. Patriotic: Crowds of people waited outside the Cathedral, many clutching Union Flags. Turn out: A lady keeps her Union Flags tucked under her arm as she waits to see the Queen. Long wait: Many of the well-wishers outside the Cathedral had waited there for hours. By 1363 and Edward III, the tradition had evolved into a ceremony that is still recognisable today, with monarchs handing out money equivalent to their age in years. The ceremony was little changed by the dawn of the Tudor period, although rulers could - and did - increase the number of beggars involved to show their religious devotion and humility. None took it more seriously than Mary I - or Bloody Mary - who in 1556 washed the feet of 41 'poor women' and spent the entire ceremony on her knees. Later monarchs were less keen on the service, with some, among them Charles I, rarely bothering to take part. Charles II, anxious to curry favour with his subjects following the Restoration, took part in the ceremony without fail, including during the plague years. Originator: The custom originated with King John, shown here signing the Magna Carta in June 1209. Modernising: The 800-year-old tradition used to involve washing beggars' feet - hence the nosegay. Smell: The scented nosegays were originally used to disguise the stench of unwashed people. All smiles: The Queen, who has only missed the ceremony four times, was all smiles as she arrived. Schoolchildren: The Queen was also introduced to a group of schoolchildren outside the cathedral. Although today's ceremony takes place in a different location each year, Queen Victoria insisted on doing it at Westminster Abbey - a custom that remained in place until the Queen took the throne in 1952. The Queen has taken part in the Royal Maundy Service in all but four years of her reign, including in 1954 when she was away touring the Commonwealth. She was also forced to pull out in 1960 thanks to the imminent birth of Prince Andrew, again in 1964 for the birth of Prince Edward and in 1970 due to a tour of New Zealand. Dapper: The 93-year-old Duke of Edinburgh cut a dapper figure in his tailored suit. Bodyguards: The Queen was flanked by members of King's Bodyguard of the Yeomen of the Guard. Long history: The Yeomen have been part of British life since 1485 and are the UK's oldest military body. On her way: After the ceremony, the Queen was driven away for a lunch at Sheffield Town Hall. Busy: The scene outside Sheffield Cathedral ahead of the Queen and Prince Philip's arrival.

The Queen has distributed the traditional Maundy Money in Sheffield. Two bags of coins were presented to 89 men and 89 women during service. One was brave D-Day veteran, 91-year-old Denis Gratton. Her Majesty arrived in the city on the Royal Train with Prince Philip. Royal Maundy tradition dates back to 1210 and the infamous King John. John, who appears in Robin Hood, was also forced to sign the Magna Carta. Royals were once required to wash the feet of beggars during the service. Only the nosegay, intended to hide the smell, still survives of that part.

Any parent will tell you that life is their child's party and they'll cry if they want to- especially if they are made to do something they don't feel inclined to. A hilarious new hashtag has popped up on social media site Instagram exposing some of these 'awful' that things parents do to their children- such as giving them a bath (how dare they), putting them in their high chair (so mean), and even giving them cookies (what a truly evil thing to do). #a**holeparent has almost 4000 posts from parents all over world, admitting through their uploaded pictures to cleaning, feeding, and entertaining their children to their immense dissatisfaction. Scroll down for video. 'I wouldn't let her have a knife,' explained one parent on the #a**hole parent thread. Most of the photos show children crying, followed by an explanation of exactly what their parent has done to upset them so. 'I wouldn't let her have a knife,' explained one parent alongside a picture of their daughter sobbing in a highchair. 'I wouldn't let him drink the bubble solution, therefore I'm an #a**holeparent,' wrote another, next to a picture of more tears. The a**holeparent website features similar images, with children crying over the small details in life. 'I wouldn't let him drink the bubble solution, therefore I'm an #a**holeparent' 'Asked her to model today's outfit... Apparently that makes me an #a**holeparent' 'Asked her to model today's outfit... Apparently that makes me an #a**holeparent. 'I won't let her play with the dirty poop wipes in the trash can,' posted one parent. 'Because I was throwing a ball in old navy and she carried [it] out,' wrote another, next to an image of their child crying. 'Have you ever suggested your child eat a broken granola bar? Have you ever barred your child from playing with power tools?,' the description on the website says. 'Have you ever served your child a drink from the pink cup when they wanted blue? Then you, too, might be an asshole parent.' One #a**holeparent posted a photo with their daughter curled up in the hallway crying. 'I won't let her play with the dirty poop wipes in the trash can' 'Because I was throwing a ball in old navy and she carried [it] out' 'I stopped him from eating wood chippings at the park, so I am an #a**holeparent,' one image was captioned. 'Asked her to model today's outfit... Apparently that makes me an #a**holeparent,' the social media user wrote. 'I put her on her rocking horse like she wanted...so im an #a**holeparent,' posted another parent. 'It’s a universal experience: having a small child be disappointed in something completely illogical,' the 'about us' section on the website says. 'Despite our best efforts, children are often frustrated. Sometimes they think we’re awful, when we’re really just being parents. May this be a humorous reminder that we’re all in this together.' 'I'm an #a**holeparent because I made him sit in his highchair and read while I swept up the food on the floor' 'She made me see the easter bunny,' posted one parent captioning this image. 'I stopped him from eating wood chippings at the park, so I am an #a**holeparent,' one image was captioned. 'I'm an #a**holeparent because I made him sit in his highchair and read while I swept up the food on the floor,' said another. The hashtag may be in response to or a spoof of the Instagram hashtag #parentingfails, which shows parents engaged in activities with their children that others have deemed unusual or inappropriate. 'He couldn't wait until we got home to play outside. So I'm an #a**holeparent'.

#a**holeparents is a hashtag on Instagram to expose 'flawed parenting' Parents posts pictures of their children crying with the hashtag. Children are shown crying because they are being fed and cleaned. 'I wouldn't let her have a knife,' captioned one snap of a child sobbing. The hashtag has almost 4000 posts from parents all over the world.