A round-up of today's other stories in brief
Lennon's pursuit of Bellamy stall
NEIL Lennon admits his efforts to bring Craig Bellamy back to Celtic have come to a standstill.
The Bhoys have been tracking their former loan star for much of the summer, with it clear that he has no future at Manchester City.
The Wales international has revealed that he would favour a permanent switch during the current transfer window, seriously denting the hopes of those who were looking for a loan deal.
Celtic are, however, making slow progress and the deadline for players to be registered for the Europa League arrives on Monday.
Lennon said: “I hope to have someone in before the deadline but I cant say yes or no . . . Its all gone quiet (on Bellamy). You would be interested in a player of Craigs quality but we have nothing more to add to that at the minute.”
Coleman injury doubt for Ireland
SEAMUS Coleman looks to be a doubt for Wednesday’s international against Croatia after the Everton player limped out of last night’s pre-season friendly against Villarreal with what looked to be a fairly serious ankle injury.
The Irishman, who started last night’s game on the right side of midfield, picked up the injury during the first half following a challenge by defender Carlos Marchena.
Inter deny talks ongoing on Sneijder
INTER Milan have again insisted there are no negotiations taking place with Manchester United regarding a deal for Wesley Sneijder.
The Red Devils have repeatedly been linked with a €40 million move to sign Sneijder as a replacement for the retired Paul Scholes.
United boss Alex Ferguson stated last weekend that it was “absolute nonsense” that the club had given the Netherlands international an ultimatum regarding a contract offer.
Reports persist that United still want to sign Sneijder before the close of the transfer window, with chief executive David Gill having suggested the club are in the market for one more “world-class” player.
Former Real Madrid schemer Sneijder is currently in China ahead of Inters Italian Super Cup clash with city rivals AC Milan.
Inter chief executive officer Ernesto Paolillo reiterated: “There are no negotiations for him.”
Leeds supremo Bates and BBC on a collision course
KEN Bates has in effect banned the BBC from covering Leeds United beyond contractual obligations due to a dispute over a TV documentary being made by BBC Leeds regarding the club’s ownership.
The BBC discovered the ban this week when BBC Radio Leeds was not admitted to a press conference held ahead of the Football League season.
The club said it will co-operate on all contractual obligations with the BBC.
Yet beyond these none of its outlets will be granted admission to press conferences or be allowed time with a player or manager before or after a match unless legally bound to do so.
Discussions between the BBC and the club are planned for next week to resolve the dispute over the restricted access. It is understood that lawyers from the corporation contacted United yesterday morning regarding the matter.
