Today's other stories in brief
Bellamy to lead Wales
Craig Bellamy has been formally confirmed as Wales' new captain after Ryan Giggs plays his final game for his country against the Czech Republic in Cardiff tomorrow. Giggs (33), has announced his retirement from international football and will lead Wales for the last time in the Euro 2008 qualifier in his home city's Millennium Stadium. Then the controversial Bellamy, another Cardiff-born star with 45 caps for his country, will take over the mantle from Giggs. Wales boss John Toshack said: "Craig is something of a character, but I have complete faith in him as Wales' new captain on a permanent basis."
Newcastle deal closer
Mike Ashley's projected takeover of Newcastle moved a step closer to completion yesterday after the club confirmed it had had a "useful and constructive discussion" with the reclusive billionaire at St James' Park. Ashley is believed to have been negotiating to increase his share ownership in the club to 54 per cent, effectively giving him control. He made a sudden purchase of John Hall's 41.6 per cent shareholding last week.
Worthington favourite
Nigel Worthington has emerged as a strong favourite to become Northern Ireland's new manager. He is 5 to 6 to succeed Lawrie Sanchez, according to bookmaker Paddy Power, with former Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock next on the list at 5 to 1. The new man could be unveiled today by the Irish Football Association following a meeting of their executive board. However, it is understood there is only a short-term contract on offer initially until the end of the Euro 2008 qualifiers in November.
Worthington (45), won 66 caps in 13 years for Northern Ireland and had a spell as captain under manager Bryan Hamilton.
Curbishley eyes Parker
West Ham have held talks with Newcastle captain Scott Parker over a proposed £7 million move to Upton Park - but only after fighting off late interest from Tottenham. It is understood West Ham chief executive Scott Duxbury was involved in late night talks on Wednesday with Parker's representatives after Spurs had attempted to hijack the deal. The England international travelled to London yesterday in order to meet West Ham officials and pave the way to becoming Alan Curbishley's first signing of the summer.
Redknapp swoops
Harry Redknapp is on the lookout for another striker after shattering Portsmouth's transfer record in a reported £7 million swoop for Ghana midfielder Sulley Muntari. It was Redknapp's third signing in eight days after bringing centre-backs Sylvain Distin from Manchester City and Hermann Hreidarsson on free transfers from Charlton to the south-coast club.
Malouda denies link
Lyon midfielder Florent Malouda has reiterated his desire to leave the club, but insists no agreement has been made for him to join Liverpool. The 26-year-old has vowed to leave the French champions this summer, and Liverpool, as well as Arsenal, have been linked with a potential move. Speculation this week had suggested that Rafa Benitez was set to move for the France winger in a £10 million deal. However, Malouda, who is currently with the national team at their Clairefontaine base, insists no deal has been done. "Liverpool have not approached Lyon," said Malouda.
Celtic sign striker
Celtic have confirmed that they have signed Hibernian striker Chris Killen on a three-year contract. The Scottish champions have beaten off competition from Cardiff City for the free transfer of the 25-year-old, whose contract was set to end this summer. He had a medical in Wales and spoke of his joy at heading for the Championship club before Celtic intervened.
Ancelotti gets new deal
Carlo Ancelotti has agreed a new deal to coach AC Milan until 2010. The 47-year-old's contract was due to run out at the end of next season, but it has now been extended until June 30th, 2010. Ancelotti led the club to their seventh European Cup with a 2-1 win over Liverpool in Athens last week.
Ranieri leaves Parma
Claudio Ranieri has resigned as manager of Serie A side Parma. The Italian is expected to eventually take over at Manchester City. Ranieri earlier confirmed his intention to succeed Stuart Pearce as boss at the Eastlands outfit providing prospective new owner Thaksin Shinawatra pushes through his takeover plans.
