England batsman Joe Root has identified the need to be more assertive to convert his half-centuries to three figure scores.

England captain Alastair Cook said yesterday he wants all cricketers found guilty of match-fixing to be banned for life

England have knack of coming unstuck as they chase a Test series whitewash but they will hope to complete the job against Sri Lanka at Lord’s this week – despite clear signs of improvement from the tourists.

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque insists La Roja must aim for a historic third straight European Championship win despite their embarrassing exit as holders at the World Cup two years ago.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal tower above their rivals and should ease into the knockout stages at Euro 2016, but the illustrious team cannot underestimate a blossoming Austria side.

One of African football’s most recognisable figures, former Nigeria player and coach Stephen Keshi, has died of a suspected heart attack, his family said yesterday.

Highly-rated Ivory Coast centre-back Eric Bailly became Jose Mourinho’s first signing for Manchester United yesterday from Spanish outfit Villarreal.

Marc Wilmots’ Belgium are aiming to topple the established favourites at Euro 2016 and with stars like Eden Hazard and Kevin de Bruyne have the weapons to so.

Spain captain Iker Casillas believes David de Gea is “no longer a future prospect but a strong contender” to play in goal for the national team at Euro 2016.

It is almost impossible to believe that a team with Thomas Mueller, Toni Kroos and Mesut Ozil look vulnerable but Germany will really have to live up to their reputation of raising their game for the big occasion at Euro 2016.

Having scaled the international football heights as a player, Didier Deschamps now has his sights set on leading France to European Championship glory on home soil as coach.

Coach Antonio Conte has played down Italy’s Euro 2016 chances after ending preparations for the tournament with friendly wins against Scotland and Finland.