Today's other stories in brief

Ipswich win as Clough sees red

IPSWICH all but ensured their English League Championship status with their second win of the Easter weekend yesterday beating Derby 3-1 at Pride Park.

Gareth McAuley’s strike put Roy Keane’s side ahead in the fourth minute before Carlos Edwards added a second with nine minutes to go. Rob Hulse pulled one back to give the home faithful hope, but Stephen Pearson’s late dismissal ended the match as a contest before Connor Wickham wrapped things up.

Derby manager Nigel Clough was left frustrated after being red-carded in a bad-tempered end. With his team trailing by one goal, Clough was banished to the stands in the 85th minute by West Yorkshire referee Jonathan Moss and two minutes later Derby midfielder Pearson was shown a red card. It was later confirmed both were dismissed for foul and abusive language and when asked if he had sworn at anyone, Clough replied: “Quite possibly, yes.”

Clubs keep and eye on Wilson

LIVERPOOL have stepped up their interest in signing Rangers young defender, Danny Wilson.

The Premier League side have followed up their initial inquiry, with the 18-year-old yet to sign the new contract on offer to him at Ibrox. Spurs have a long-standing interest in the player, while both Manchester City and Aston Villa are interested. But Liverpools interest has been most keenly expressed so far. And, with just over a year left on Wilsons contract, Rangers may soon have a big decision to make. It would take somewhere in the region of €3 million plus add-ons linked to future appearances or transfers to prise the player away this summer.

Rangers remain hopeful, though, that Wilson will sign the contract they have offered.

Liverpool 'are underdogs'

STEVEN Gerrard believes Liverpool must win their five remaining league games if they are to win the race for the fourth Champions League place. “The race for fourth place seems to change from week to week. You have to look at the teams above us, they’re the favourites and we’re the underdogs. But we’ll keep fighting all the way to the end.” Liverpool still have to play Burnley, West Ham and Hull City.

Robben may be fit to face United

ARJEN Robben gave further evidence he could be fit to play in tomorrow’s Champions League clash against Manchester United by taking part in light training yesterday.

The Bayern Munich winger, who missed the first leg of the quarter-final last Tuesday and the Bundesliga win over Schalke at the weekend with a calf strain, did light running and ball work.

The former Chelsea player was cleared on Sunday to travel with the squad for the match. Defender Daniel van Buyten, who received a knock just below his left knee against Schalke, also reported for treatment at Sabener Strasse and he too will make the trip. The decision over their participation will probably be taken only after final training in Manchester. Bayern take a 2-1 lead with them to Old Trafford.

Lawrence to hold talks with Stoke

MIDFIELDER Liam Lawrence has admitted he is unsure where his future lies after revealing he will hold talks with Stoke City boss Tony Pulis at the end of the season.

The 28-year-old Republic of Ireland international has started just 13 Premier League games for the Potters this season. “Weve had a couple of meetings and stuff, but I’m not going into that just yet. I will just concentrate on finishing the season and then see what happens,” said the former Sunderland midfielder. “The gaffer knows me and we are friends. He knows I need to be playing football. Ive bided my time this season and played the last couple of games.

“Youve got to play well in the team at Stoke to stay in and maybe I havent played as well as I could and thats why I have been out of the team. But Im not one of those to moan and sulk. Im happy at Stoke and I will try to finish the season strongly. I love playing here and love the supporters.”

Ancelotti confident Cole will sign new contract

CHELSEA manager Carlo Ancelotti has again revealed his confidence that Joe Cole will agree a new contract to remain at Stamford Bridge beyond the summer. The 28-year-old midfielder is out of contract at the end of the current season but underlined his importance to the Blues with the opening goal in Saturdays 2-1 Premier League victory over Manchester United.

Cole has struggled to recapture his best form since suffering a serious knee ligament injury back in January 2009, but Ancelotti is confident that the former West Ham star will ultimately extend his stay with the Blues.

“He will definitely sign a new contract. There is no problem, dont worry,” declared the Italian.

Ive spoken a lot about Joe Cole with my club and everyone has a desire for him to stay at Chelsea and so does he.”