SPORT IN BRIEF
Ferguson remarks probed by FA
FOOTBALL: The Football Association has asked Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson to explain his remarks about referee Alan Wiley’s alleged lack of fitness.
Ferguson said Wiley had struggled to keep pace during United 2-2 draw with Sunderland on Saturday.
Tonsillitis floors Radcliffe
ATHLETICS: Britain’s Paula Radcliffe has been forced to withdraw from Sunday’s World Half Marathon Championships in Birmingham with tonsillitis.
It is the latest setback to befall the marathon world record holder, 35, who is on a course of antibiotics. She said: “I’m devastated not to be able to compete in Birmingham.”
Deng excited by homecoming
BASKETBALL: British Chicago Bulls star Luol Deng is relishing a rare chance to perform in front of a home crowd tonight at London’s 02.
The 24-year-old, who missed the recent European Championships through injury, and faces Utah Jazz in the NBA’s latest visit to the capital. Deng said: “It will be great to see joy in the British fans’ eyes to see me in a Bulls jersey.”
Barrichello cagey on title hopes
FORMULA ONE: Title hopeful Rubens Barrichello is refusing to look at the drivers’ standings with two races left to go.
Barrichello is 14 points behind Brawn GP team-mate Jenson Button, and will only think about his chances again after this month’s Brazilian Grand Prix.
He said: “I am not calculating what I can or can’t do, it is the fact of going there, winning the race and seeing later.”
Azam set for Borthwick verdict
RUGBY UNION: Gloucester hooker Olivier Azam today faces a Rugby Football Union hearing over the incident that injured England skipper Steve Borthwick’s eye.
The Frenchman insists the contact from his boot during Saracens’ win on 27 September was accidental. Borthwick is expected to be out for another 10 days.