WORLD CUP NEWS | IN BRIEF
Torres unsure of starting place
LIVERPOOL striker Fernando Torres admits he is not sure of his place in Spain’s starting line-up for tomorrow’s crunch semi-final with Germany.
Torres has so far failed to find the net in a poor World Cup by his own standards, and is tipped by some to be replaced by either Cesc Fabregas or David Silva in Cape Town.
“In this squad, no one has a guaranteed spot. This squad is very competitive and anyone can be a starter,” the £70m-rated hitman admitted.
“I have to work hard during the week to be in the starting line-up but if I don’t get to start, then I don’t start and I will support the team from outside the pitch.”
Nigeria ban overturned
THE Nigerian government yesterday backed down and rescinded their decision to ban the national team from competition following their poor World Cup campaign.
The Super Eagles had been suspended for two years following their disappointing showing in South Africa, sparking a furious response from Fifa.
They threatened serious ramifications and just an hour before Fifa’s imposed 5pm deadline to reverse the decision, the Nigerian government caved in.
Maradona looks set to quit
DIEGO MARADONA last night hinted he may be set to quit as Argentina’s national team coach following their World Cup defeat by Germany.
Maradona has received several messages of support from adoring fans since admitting he was contemplating his future following Saturday’s 4-0 loss.
But it seems the former playing legend has already made up his mind to call it a day. “It is done my cycle has ended,” he said.
“I have given everything, now I will spend time with my family – but I am not depressed.”