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Arsenal winger Theo Walcott made his return to the England team for the World Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan after dislocating his shoulder and missing four international games. Rio Ferdinand’s calf injury meant Matthew Upson partnered John Terry at centre-back, while goalkeeper Robert Green was handed his first start for the Group Six clash. Emile Heskey, who missed the victory over Ukraine in April, replaced Peter Crouch in attack as England looked to protect their 100% record in qualifying for the 2010 World Cup. Fabio Capello’s men were fighting the effects of jetlag after their 3,500-mile trip east to a country that borders... read more >>

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has confirmed he has overcome a knee problem and will be fit for Saturday’s FA Cup final against Everton. The England international had been struggling with the complaint during the week but has returned to training ahead of Wembley’s showpiece. Lampard is eagerly anticipating the encounter, which will be manager Guus Hiddink’s last game in charge, as the Blues look to lift their first silverware since 2007. “Yes, I am fit. I have just had a bit of a niggle with my knee but I feel fit and ready to go,” said Lampard. “I think it is always hard to call cup finals. Everton are... read more >>

Cristiano Ronaldo has provided Manchester United with a late injury scare ahead of the UEFA Champions League final after requiring treatment in training. The Portuguese winger needed strapping on his ankle during Tuesday evening’s training session at the Stadio Olimpico. Ronaldo, who missed the start of the season after undergoing ankle surgery, is expected to be fit for Wednesday’s showpiece in Rome. The 24-year-old is likely to start up front against Barcelona, with Wayne Rooney and Park Ji-sung tipped to provide support from wide. Nemanja Vidic was also photographed during the session holding his hamstring, but United have confirmed... read more >>

Afterwards boss Guus Hiddink felt his Chelsea side did a remarkable job of stifling Barcelona. “Barcelona play beautiful football and possession is crucial to their game,” said the Dutchman. “The only thing they couldn’t do was find a goal and I think Petr Cech did a good job defensively. “They couldn’t create the big chances and we were a little bit unlucky with Didier in the first half, but we have to accept that they posed more of a threat. We fought very bravely. “We know this is the only team in the world that can immediately take advantage when you lose your discipline and punish you. The guys did... read more >>