Football

Ferguson will be a bystander for the first time since 1986, watching from afar as Manchester United start their pursuit of a record-extending 21st English title.

Luis Suarez scored one and Diego Forlan scored twice including a fine free-kick to give Uruguay 4-2 friendly win against Japan.

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli will have to make do without the services of Mario Balotelli for Wednesday's international friendly against Argentina.

Bale joined up with the squad despite being sidelined since picking up the injury in a pre-season friendly for his club Tottenham Hotspur.

With a difficult pre-season, Barcelona have their work cut out due to less signings.

Alves has admitted that he would be delighted to see David Luiz join Barcelona from Chelsea this summer.

Cesc Fabregas opened the scoresheet with a header for Barcelona in the 33rd minute as the La Liga champions defeated Malaysia 3-1.

Fabregas has injured his ankle and could pull out of the Spain squad for next week's friendly match against Ecuador.

The India football coach said that he wants the national team players to get attached with I-League clubs to be eligible for selection.

Meanwhile, seven-time winners AC Milan were paired with PSV Eindhoven in Friday's draw.

Spanish media reported the two-year deal was worth around 3 million euros.

The veteran striker has been named in a 23-man squad for a friendly against Mexico in New York next Wednesday.

Carlos Tevez has abandoned any hope of returning to international duty with Argentina.

With speculation over the future of Rooney continuing, Manchester United manager Moyes said he did not have to convince the striker to stay at Old Trafford.

UEFA announced the three names on Tuesday after announcing an initial 10-player list of contenders last month.

Mohun Bagan captain Odafa Okolie, who joined the team practice on Friday, said they are committed to play as a unit with the main goal of winning the elusive I-League.