Cricket World Cup reduced to 10 teams

ICC confirms next two competitions will be reduced by four teams, dealing a blow to minnow nations Ireland and Kenya.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that the 2015 and 2019 Cricket World Cups will be contested by 10 teams, confirming their decision to cut four associate nations from the tournament.

Despite widespread objections, the world governing body endorsed the move at an executive board meeting in Mumbai on Monday, following Saturday's thrilling finale when India lifted the trophy after a tournament featuring 14 teams.

"The executive board confirmed their decision made in October 2010 that the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 in Australia and New Zealand and the ICC Cricket World Cup in England in 2019 will be a 10-team event," a media release said.

Criticism

The two most recent tournaments, held in West Indies in 2007 and India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in 2011, have attracted criticism for lasting too long, but the move comes despite support from prominent figures for "minnow" nations such as Ireland, Kenya, Canada and the Netherlands, all of whom took part this year.

This year's tournament, won by India on Saturday, had 14 teams competing and lasted for six weeks with Ireland the only non Test cricket playing nation to cause an upset, beating England in the group stage.

Associate member nations who were all knocked out in the group stages of this year's tournament, will have to wait until 2019 to compete again.

The 10 spots available for the 2019 tournament in England will be determined on the basis of qualification.

Ireland pulled off one of the shocks of the 2011 tournament when they came from behind to beat England by three wickets in a thrilling group stage clash.

"I really enjoy seeing the minnow teams getting an opportunity to be honest," Australia captain Michael Clarke said on Monday, echoing earlier comments by England spinner Graeme Swann.

"Why would you want to take the world out of the World Cup? Shocks can happen," Swann told Wisden Cricket magazine.

Cricket Ireland set up a Facebook campaign against the decision, which the body's chief executive Warren Deutrom called "frankly outrageous".

"I cannot think of a decision which is less cognisant of the principles of sport and fair play than the one that has been taken today," he said, in comments posted on the Irish Times website.

"It absolutely flies in the face of all the evidence that has been possible to accrue over the last four years as regards Ireland's performances, not just in the World Cup in 2007 but also in this World Cup and the intervening four years."

The decision means the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand will be contested by full ICC members: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, England, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, West Indies and Zimbabwe.

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Inter confident ahead of crunch derby

Milan derby could decide who wins Italy's Serie A as a resurgent Inter aim for their sixth consecutive title.

It is all about pride on Saturday in Italy's Serie A, as a surging Inter Milan, firmly back into contention for their sixth consecutive scudetto, aim to end AC Milan's season-long occupation of the top spot.

Milan have a two-point advantage on Inter and are the nominal hosts at the San Siro ground the two sides share, but are without suspended striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic and defender Lucio.

They also won there earlier in the season but Inter have closed a gap that once stood at 13 points in mid-December and have by far the better form since the turn of the year.

Boosted by their come-from-behind win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League, Inter are on a roll and are looking to take the lead from their rivals.

In form

Inter's good form is obvious with 12 victories from 15 league games since last season's Milan coach Leonardo took over the reins from Rafa Benitez at the start of the year.

Leonardo, who spent more than a decade as a player, director and last season as coach for the Rossoneri, leads out the visiting Nerazzurri.

While Jose Mourinho's Inter claimed the treble last season, the Brazilian, in his rookie year as coach, led Milan to third place before leaving through mutual agreement amid rumours of interference in team selection.

"The derby won't be crucial because after that there are another seven rounds," said the 41-year old, who has also guided Inter to the quarterfinals of the Champions League and semifinals of the Italian Cup.

"What we wanted to do was get closer, get back in the race and challenge for the scudetto. We reach this derby in the best possible condition."

Inter midfielder Dejan Stankovic was confident ahead of Saturday's game:

"Maybe we're seen as favourites because of recent results, we've made a historic comeback and we don't want to stop there," said the Serbia captain.

"We won't let up, that's for sure, but I am a little worried about their professional pride.

"They will want to show they haven't spent 20 weeks leading Serie A for nothing, to show that they have quality."

Milan's interest in European competition is over for another season and the club's hierarchy surely would not be satisfied with merely a Cup victory for their year's efforts not to mention their economic outlay over the past 12 months.

Milan looked almost home and dry a couple of weeks ago after Inter had drawn away to lowly Brescia.

The rossoneri could have moved seven points ahead of their rivals with a victory but instead they drew at home to rock-bottom Bari and then lost away to Palermo the next week.

That has left them just two points above their bitter city rivals and under pressure also from Napoli, three points back, and outsiders Udinese, six points behind.

Robinho, likely to start in attack alongside compatriot Pato, has promised to dance the samba if he scores the winner.

"It's a key moment for us and we cannot afford to fail if we want to win the scudetto," the Brazilian said before addressing Leonardo's controversial decision to join Inter.

"It was his decision to go there but I can understand the Milan fans' disappointment. He will have to accept the consequences of his actions."

Without Ibrahimovic, Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri is likely to add muscle to his attack in the shape of Kevin-Prince Boateng rather than Antonio Cassano.

Also this weekend, third-place Napoli, who are also still in the title hunt, face fifth-place Lazio and sixth-place Roma host seventh-place Juventus.

To top it all off, there's also the always heated Sicilian derby between Catania and Palermo.

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Formula D Fans: Show Your Support for the Sport

Are you a fan of Formula D, otherwise known as Formula Drifting? If you have a love for cars, racing, or anything else along those lines, there is a good chance that you are. Drifting has always been a relatively popular sport in the United States, but its popularity climaxed with the development of a professional Formula D series. Despite that popularity, the sport is still unknown by many. Formula D needs your help to keep its popularity on the rise. If you are wondering how you can go about doing this, you are not alone.

When it comes to helping Formula Drifting increase in popularity, there are many individuals who over analyze the situation. There are even others who think it is too much work. Well, this is simply not true. If you want to help Formula D become all that it can be, all that you have to do is be a fan. Sounds simple enough doesn’t it? While it is important to be a fan, you want to be more than just a fan. You want to be a fan that has a love and a passion for the sport. There are a number of different ways that you can go about accomplishing this.

Perhaps, the easiest way is to watch television programming that is focused on Formula D, including coverage of live events. To do this, you will need to have access to G4TV. G4TV is one of the few television networks that airs Formula D programs. The only problem with this is that the network has recently scaled back their coverage. Not as many programs are shown as they were in the past and many are being repeated, without cycling through old repeats first. To not only keep newer Formula D programs featured on G4TV, but to ensure that they keep their partnership with Formula Drift, you are advised to tune in as much as possible.

When it comes to television and the programming that airs on it, networks will not air programs that no one watches. Of course, in a way, this defeats the purpose of repeats. Most individuals can only watch a certain program a couple of times before it becomes too much to handle. Although these may prevent you from tuning into the Formula D coverage offered on G4TV, you are advised to think about the bigger picture. High ratings are the only way that a network will know that their viewers are interested. By tuning in or writing to the G4TV staff, you may help to keep the sport of drifting alive and interesting, at least on television.

In addition to watching Formula D events on television, you are also encouraged to watch them live, in person. The only problem with this is that there are a select number of locations in which Formula D events take places. These locations tend to include California, Georgia, Washington, Illinois, and New Jersey. If you are in the area, when one of these events are taking place, you are advised to attend one. In addition to having an exciting day, full of action, you will also find that these events are fairly easy to afford. Many venues only charge an admission fee of around twenty dollars per person. This means that you could easily afford to attend a Formula D event on your own or with your family.
When it comes to attending a live Formula D event, many fans are unsure exactly how it may help to increase the popularity of the sport. When a large number of fans turn out for a particular event, the event promoters are usually pleased. A large fan turnout will almost always guarantee that the event will occur again, often at a later date. A large fan turn out may also help to spark new Formula D event venues. If and when this does occur, they will likely be in new areas; thus giving fans, who were previously unable to attend an event the opportunity to do so.

As you can easily see, there are a number of different ways that you can go about supporting Formula Drifting. In fact, as a fan, it is likely that you already attend live events or watch sports coverage on television. If so, did you know that you are helping out the sport, likely in more ways than one?

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Buying Formula D Drifting Merchandise

All across the country, millions of Americas sport a football jersey from their favorite football player or team. While you may not necessarily wear a jersey, you should still support your favorite Formula D driver or, at least, the sport as a whole. You can easily do this by purchasing Formula D drifting merchandise. If you have never tired to purchase this type of merchandise before, you may be wondering how you can go about doing so.

When it comes to buying Formula D merchandise, it is important to focus on a particular type of product or item. This is because, in most cases, you will find that you need to use different search methods when looking for a shirt versus looking for a book on the sport. So, for that reason, you are advised to try and narrow down your search. Of course, you can also search for additional products later. Plus, there is also a good chance that you will come across additional merchandise that catches your eye, when searching for a particular Formula D product.

When it comes to apparel, many fans like to wear apparel that has a focus on their favorite athlete. If this is the case with you, you will want to select your favorite Formula D driver and then search for any merchandise that they may have available for sale. If your favorite drifter has an online website, there is a good chance that merchandise, including clothing and apparel, could be found on their online website. If you are unable to find this apparel, you could also order your own. A large number of online websites allow you to custom order products, such as hats, shirts, and much more.

If you are interested in purchasing merchandise that has a general focus on Formula Drifting, instead of just a particular competitor, you may find it a little bit easier to find what you are looking for. Whether you want to purchase a book or a DVD, you should easily be able to find a number of different products online, not to mention in storefront retail locations. Although books and media items are available in most storefront retail locations, you may have better luck searching online. Most storefront retail stores are limited on the number of items that they carry. Essentially, this means that for a larger product selection, you are advised to shop online.

When shopping online, you will find that you have a number of different options. Online, you can find a large number of online retailers, as well as online auction sites. While your first impulse may be to purchase the cheapest products, you may want to think about who you are purchasing Formula D merchandise from. Although online auction websites are nice, you could be giving back to the sport by directly ordering merchandise from the Formula Drift Championship Series or from professional Formula D drivers.

In addition to ordering merchandise online, there is also a good chance that you could find the same or similar products at live Formula D events. During these events, vendors tend to setup display booths. The type of merchandise available for sale will all depend on where you are, but you should have a wide variety of different products to choose from. These products are likely to include Formula D apparel, as well as movies, books, and other media items.

By keeping the above mentioned points in mind, you should be able to find whatever you are looking for. Whether you are looking to purchase a Formula D shirt or the newest video game, you now know where to search. Now that you know where to go, what are you waiting for?

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Blatter promises 'new Fifa'

World football chief vows a fresh organisation in selecting the 2018 and 2022 World Cup hosts following voting scandal.

Sepp Blatter, the world football chief, has promised that a "new Fifa" will choose the 2018 and 2022 hosts for the World Cup next month but admitted that changes would be needed in the future.

Blatter was speaking at a news conference in Geneva following his organisation's decision on Thursday to fine and ban two of its executive committee members following an investigation into allegations that they offered to sell their votes in support of a country bidding to host the 2018 World Cup.

The Fifa president said on Friday that he was satisfied with the outcome of the corruption investigation, which also punished four other senior officials.

"I am very satisfied, but I'm not happy, you cannot be happy when you have to sanction members of our family, it is not a pleasure, but I'm satisfied with the work done by the ethics committee," he said.

Reynald Temarii, a Tahitian, and Nigeria's Amos Adamu allegedly told Sunday Times journalists posing as lobbyists that they would endorse the bids to host the World Cup in return for large sums of money.

Adamu has been forbidden from engaging in any form of football activities for three years, and he will be fined about $10,000. Temarii has been banned from football activities for one year and fined approximately $5,000.

Both men were suspended temporarily last month pending the full investigation by the ethics committee.

Blatter admitted that the decision on punishments had not "found the total support of all of the members of the executive committee" but that the committee "abides by the decisions handed down by the ethics committee".

Blatter said all of those sanctioned would be able to appeal against the rulings.

Collusion claims

Andrew Simmons, Al Jazeera's correspondent in Geneva, said: "He [Blatter] didn't really seem to be in buoyant form but it was clear that he feels that this whole thing is now put behind Fifa. He's drawn a line under the whole affair.

"He described the Sunday Times expose, the sting operation, effectively as something he said was unfair ... and he was unhappy about it, he did not welcome what they did."

Blatter said he was optimistic and looking forward to the last few days before the bid decisions on December 2 but also said that collusion was difficult to avoid.

"You cannot avoid collusion, but if there is something wrong in such collusion, then somebody should intervene," he said.

"You find collusion in politics, in elections ... where two parties are enemies during the year but then they go together. That's collusion, this has not been banned."

The ethics committee found no evidence of alleged collusion between the Spain/Portugal and Qatar bids.

England, Russia, Spain-Portugal and Netherlands-Belgium are bidding to host the 2018 World Cup with Japan, South Korea, Australia, United States and Qatar the candidates for 2022.

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Aston Villa 2 - 2 Man Utd

Manchester United came back from two goals down to salvage a point against a youthful Aston Villa.

James Collins and Gabriel Agbonlahor each struck the United woodwork before Villa went ahead when Ashley Young scored from the penalty spot.

Marc Albrighton slotted in from close range as he added to Villa's lead.

But Federico Macheda gave United hope with a powerful shot and Nemanja Vidic stooped to head in a Nani cross to equalise for the visitors late on.

United's comeback provided a thrilling finale to the match but manager Sir Alex Ferguson must have been left wondering why his team waited until they were 2-0 down before sparking into life.

Ferguson took off misfiring strikers Javier Hernandez and Dimitar Berbatov and sent on Gabriel Obertan and Macheda with his side looking beaten but they raised themselves for a late rally to earn a point that had appeared out of reach following the stirring efforts of Villa.

It was the sixth draw in seven Premier League outings for United on their travels this season and, although they kept up their unbeaten record for the campaign, they have now dropped 12 points away from home.

United had the motivation of knowing a win at Villa would close the gap to one point on league leaders Chelsea, who will be playing on Sunday, but the visitors lacked urgency.

They were almost caught napping early on when Barry Bannan slid a ball inside right-back Wes Brown to find Stewart Downing and it needed centre-back Rio Ferdinand to come across and clear out the danger.

United briefly threatened when Hernandez's pass released Berbatov but his early season confidence in front of goal was missing as the Bulgarian sidefooted disappointingly wide.

The visitors' lacklustre play was epitomised when a well-worked free-kick saw Nani play in Evra on the left only for his low whipped ball to fly across the Villa goalmouth without a team-mate showing a desire to get to it.

United needed a creative player in the same mould as the suspended Paul Scholes, whose ability to spray the ball around and get forward from midfield was badly missed.

Hernandez and Berbatov were well-marshalled by a resolute and experienced Villa defence, but the rest of the home side was predominantly made up of up-and-coming talent and the more their opponents struggled the more they grew into their task.

Albrighton was a threat on the right flank, while the central midfield pairing of Bannan and Jonathan Hogg, the latter making his league debut, showed plenty of youthful zest.

Young had a half-volley saved by Edwin van der Sar and Downing saw a shot deflected narrowly wide off Ferdinand as the home side sensed United's fragility.

Not even a half-time teamtalk from Ferguson inspired United to positive action and they looked increasingly vulnerable after the break.

Albrighton sent a far post shot wide as Villa pressed and he then headed an inviting Downing cross across goal and wide.

A fleet-footed Villa full of energy and verve were piling on the pressure and United were rescued by the woodwork when Downing sent in another threatening ball from the left and Collins rose highest to plant a header against the crossbar.

United were rocking and when the ball broke loose after a Vidic tackle on Young, Agbonlahor crashed a shot off the United post.

Villa were finally rewarded when a counter-attack ended with Brown felling Young, who picked himself up to score emphatically from the spot.

And it got even better for the home side after Macheda gave the ball away and a swift and clinical Villa break ended with Albrighton slotting in Downing's perfect cross to the far post.

But United are renowned for their ability to keep fighting until the final whistle and Macheda drilled in an 18-yard shot to give them a renewed belief.

When Vidic met a Nani cross at the far post and nodded in an angle header, the visitors suddenly felt victory was within reach.

Villa held on for a point but a home league win over United, last achieved in 1995, continues to elude them.

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Parma beat Sampdoria in the fog

Parma climb three places from the bottom of the table, while Sampdoria continue a string of non-scoring games.

Parma have beaten Sampdoria in Serie A in a fog-shrouded match, to raise themselves to third from bottom of the league table.

The northern-city side won the game 1-0 at the Stadio Tardini on Thursday evening, with Valeri Bojinov, the Bulgarian striker, capitalising on confusion caused by the poor visibility to put the ball in the back of the net.

It was Parma's first win since August 29, easing pressure on Pasquale Marino, their coach.

Parma's offensive play threatened the visitors in both halves, but Sampdoria had the best chance before the goal, with forward Giampaolo Pazzini smashing a free-kick against the underside of the crossbar.

Bojinov then scored with a shot into the corner of the goal from a reverse pass by Christian Zaccardo - the club's first goal in more than 400 minutes.

Sampdoria patently lacked suspended Antonio Cassano, their inventive Italian forward, and have now failed to score a goal for four games on the trot.

The temperamental Cassano was suspended by the club for swearing at Riccardo Garrone, the president, and failing to attend an awards dinner, but the team is suffering without him.

Despite apologising several times Cassano remains unfavoured and unselected, while an arbitration panel is due to rule on the legality of the suspension.

The team from the northwest of Italy are in seventh place.

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Manchester United, West Brom, Birmingham Reach League Cup Quarterfinals

Defending champion Manchester United beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-2 to advance to the quarterfinals of English soccer’s League Cup.

Premier League clubs Birmingham, West Bromwich Albion and Wigan also moved into the final eight by beating lower-division teams, as did Ipswich of the second-tier Championship.

Javier Hernandez came off the bench to score in the 90th minute to give Manchester United the fourth-round victory at Old Trafford. Bebe and Ji-Sung Park also scored for United, while George Elokobi and Kevin Foley had the goals for Wolves.

Birmingham beat Brentford of League One in a penalty shootout 4-3 after the game finished 1-1 following extra time. Birmingham’s Kevin Phillips scored in second-half stoppage time to cancel out a 68th-minute goal from Sam Wood.

West Brom and Wigan beat teams from the Championship. Simon Cox scored twice to lead West Brom over Leicester 4-1, while goals from Mauro Boselli and Ben Watson gave Wigan a 2-0 win against Swansea. Ipswich came from behind to beat Northampton, which is next-to-last in League Two, 3-1.

The remaining three quarterfinal spots will be filled tomorrow, when Aston Villa hosts Burnley, Arsenal visits Newcastle and Stoke travels to West Ham.

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10 questions to ponder as NBA season prepares to tip off

With near-unparalleled anticipation and keen interest, the 2010-11 NBA season begins Tuesday.

A doozy of a matchup — Big 3 squared — gets it going, too: LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and the Miami Heat against Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and the Boston Celtics (TNT, 7:30 p.m. ET). An Eastern Conference final preview?

Of course, the Orlando Magic will have a say in the matter, too.

Other eye-catching story lines this season:

•Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant's emergence as a legitimate MVP candidate.

MORE: Durant's play demands respect

•Forward Carlos Boozer joining guard Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls.

•Forward Blake Griffin's attempt to resuscitate the Los Angeles Clippers.

•New York Knicks forward Amar'e Stoudemire's presence in the Big Apple.

•And, oh yeah, that Los Angeles Lakers' run at a three-peat.

MORE: Lakers ready for opener, ring presentation

Seems fantastic.

But all that glitters is not gold.

Stalemated labor negotiations and a potential lockout when the collective bargaining agreement expires after the season could mute the positive vibe and spoil any momentum this season creates.

Commissioner David Stern's just-announced wish to reduce annual player salary costs by at least $750 million has triggered fears of the NBA's first labor stoppage since the 1998-99 season.

Players union executive director Billy Hunter says the league's insistence on a rollback of salaries, a hard salary cap and non-guaranteed contracts "will inevitably result in a lockout and the cancellation of part or all of the 2011-2012 season."

Strong words, but neither side says the negotiating rhetoric will sully what happens on the court. The grousing that plays out off the court, however, won't end anytime soon.

In anticipating the highs and lows of the coming months, here is our take on the 10 questions this season will answer:

1. Will star-studded Heat win it all?

They certainly have the talent with the NBA's best trio in guard Wade and forwards James and Bosh and complementary players such as guard-forward Mike Miller, forwards Udonis Haslem and James Jones and guards Carlos Arroyo and Mario Chalmers.

But it's not that simple. Chemistry, on and off the court, plays a role, and it does not happen overnight.

Continuity — that's the word Heat coach Erik Spoelstra likes to use — hardly has started on the court with Wade missing most of the preseason with a strained right hamstring and swingman Miller out until at least January from a freak thumb injury.

It is not unusual for a team to find out what it takes to win a championship the hard way — going deep into the playoffs and losing and then coming back the following season to win the title.

That might be the Heat's path, and there is nothing wrong with that. But that's not what James, Wade and Bosh expect, nor their fans. Anything less than a title will draw catcalls.

2. Will Phil Jackson get a fourth three-peat and the Lakers a franchise-record third?

As long as five-time champion Kobe Bryant stays healthy, don't bet against them, because this is a deeper team than last season's. The Lakers bring back the same starters with Derek Fisher, Bryant, Ron Artest, Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum (whose recovery from knee surgery will keep him out a while).

Their most glaring weakness last season was their bench, but the additions of point guard Steve Blake, forward Matt Barnes and shot-blocking center Theo Ratliff have bolstered that area significantly. Bryant will be going for his sixth title, which would tie him with Michael Jordan. Motivation enough.

3. Is Oklahoma City a legitimate threat to the Lakers?

Definitely. The Thunder probably are a year away, but depending on how the season breaks, Oklahoma City is good enough to make it happen now. The Thunder not only have youth with scoring champ Durant and point guard Russell Westbrook but also depth and a desire for playing lockdown defense.

To go deep in the postseason, a coach must be able to reach into his reserves to find sparks, such as what James Harden did for the team last season to pull out close games. The Thunder took the Lakers to six games in the playoffs, their first postseason appearance since the franchise moved to Oklahoma City from Seattle (where they were called the SuperSonics).

Now Durant and Westbrook are more seasoned from their experience winning gold for the USA at the world championship. And the Thunder added more shooters with Daequan Cook and Morris Peterson. Starting 6-7 swingman Thabo Sefolosha is a rare commodity who can defend the most challenging skill position on the floor without rotating help from the low post.

4. Which different West teams will make the postseason?

The Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies and Houston Rockets. Maybe even the Sacramento Kings.

The Rockets won 40 games without center Yao Ming; now that he's back, they can go at least 10 deep. Adding Brad Miller as a free agent behind Yao solidifies that position, and their guard play is especially solid after acquiring Courtney Lee. Don't be surprised if they win the Southwest Division for the first time since it was formed in 2004, but with power forward Luis Scola leading the way instead of Yao.

The Grizzlies fizzled late last season, but their success this time hinges on better production from the point guard position and more production from the bench. The Clippers and Kings are bolstered by their recent draft picks at the same time the Utah Jazz (53 wins) and Phoenix Suns (54) lost All-Stars and could take significant dips.

The Denver Nuggets (53 wins), however, could fall the most, with injuries to interior players and the much-discussed possibility All-Star Carmelo Anthony will be traded by the deadline in February.

5. What happens with 'Melo?

The short answer: He will be traded this season. The Knicks and New Jersey Nets seem mighty interested.

Here's the long answer: The Nuggets, Anthony and a willing trade partner are in a conundrum. The Nuggets want something valuable in return. Anthony wants a say in where he goes.

The Knicks would be one step closer to a super team and a threat to join the upper half of the East. The Nets would be better, too, and primed for the future. Both, of course, want assurances Anthony will sign an extension and be with the team beyond this season.

So far, no proposed deal has appeased everyone. A deal looked close just before training camp, and one is still possible soon. But the Nuggets are in no hurry.

The possibility exists Anthony remains with the Nuggets all season and then becomes a free agent, allowing him to sign where he wants.

6. Is Tim Duncan's era with the San Antonio Spurs about done?

Probably. This is the last hurrah for the most dominant small-market franchise — winners of four championships between 1999 and 2007 — in the modern era. Fundamentally sound players such as Duncan, 34, can play at a higher level much longer than those who rely on physical gifts.

Expect him to have another strong season, especially if 25-year-old rookie Thiago Splitter, a 6-11 forward from Brazil, gives the Spurs another low-post presence with DeJuan Blair.

The Spurs showed flashes of that old magic by upsetting the Dallas Mavericks in the first round last season but looked dated while being swept for the first time in franchise history, by the Suns in the conference semifinals. They lacked outside shooting, and this team of 30-somethings can't run.

They need to get younger and faster to compete in the West. By the time they get those pieces in place to make another serious run, Duncan's time will be up.

7. Aren't the Celtics and Magic being ignored?

From a national perspective, the Heat have attracted the most attention. But attention does not win games, and Miami knows it will have to beat at least Orlando or Boston, if not both, in the playoffs to reach the Finals.

The Celtics and Magic made important offseason decisions — Boston with personnel and Orlando with X's and O's.

Adding guard Delonte West and the O'Neal big men (Shaquille and Jermaine) were shrewd moves for Boston. The Celtics look deeper and better than they were last season, especially with Garnett fully recovered from spring 2009 knee surgery and point guard Rajon Rondo that much better.

Magic coach Stan Van Gundy isn't abandoning his pick-and-roll offense, just adding more post plays for center Dwight Howard. Howard's more serious attitude gives Orlando sharper focus.

Both teams are talented and versatile. If the Heat slip, both will be right there.

8. Who will be MVP?

Durant is the hot pick. Coming off a season in which he was the youngest scoring leader in NBA history (then 21) and a summer in which he led Team USA to a gold medal in the world championships, Durant was picked by league general managers to win the award.

The Magic's Van Gundy will again encourage voters to consider his center, Howard.

But is there a really better player than James? He is only 25, a two-time MVP with room to grow. He's also on a team where other areas of his game might improve because he doesn't need to score as much as he did with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

9. Is the new rule on technical fouls a disaster in the making?

Time will tell, although some think the NBA might have gone a step too far.

The NBA has instructed referees to reduce the complaining from players about calls and no-calls by issuing technical fouls. Behavior that previously did not generate technicals will now — such as overt disagreeable gestures, even if it is not directed at a referee.

Some critics argue that cutting back on whining is good. Others say limiting players' emotion and passion is not.

Stern is convinced players will adapt, and he might be right — for the most part. Minor controversies will erupt, Stern argues, but the guidelines will become second nature to the players and referees and a non-topic after a while.

Unless a superstar gets tossed or it affects an important game, critics argue.

10. Will there be a work stoppage? If so, who will come out the winner?

It's more than likely there will be one. The rhetoric late last week from both sides was not a good sign and washed out the good feelings that had come out of previous meetings. But then again, it's not like Stern and Hunter haven't hammered out a deal previously.

Owners are talking of $400 million in losses last season alone, and they point to escalating expenses that dwarf growing revenue.

Stern wants a reduction of $750 million-$800 million in annual salaries — players wouldn't be the first employees to take a pay cut in this economy. Owners will also fight for shorter contracts, a hard salary cap with no exceptions and non-guaranteed deals.

The players have already rejected those ideas. They note that, if owners are in such financial trouble, why are complementary players such as Amir Johnson and Drew Gooden being paid in excess of $30 million in free agency?

Negotiations are expected to get uglier before a deal is reached.

Players prospered in the last collective bargaining agreement. It is unlikely they will prosper in this one, especially if it gets to where games are canceled and a portion of the 2011-12 season is lost.

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England files bid complaint to Fifa

England's 2018 World Cup bid team files complaint against head of rival Russian campaign after comments about London.

Sorokin, second from right, said he is willing to apologise for the 'misunderstanding' for his comments [GALLO/GETTY]

The England team bidding for the 2018 World Cup has filed a formal complaint with Fifa, football's world governing body, over critical comments made by the head of Russia's rival campaign.

Alexei Sorokin, the chief of Russia's bid for the tournament, was reported in the Russian daily Sport-Express newspaper to have criticised London for high crime rates and binge drinking.

He also accused British media of campaigning against his country's bid. The comments could be found to breach Fifa's rules over criticising competitors.

Sorokin said on Tuesday that he was willing to apologise for the "misunderstanding" over his comments.

He argued, however, that he had not broken any rules.

England's complaint has been made against Sorokin rather than the Russian bid as a whole.

Anti-corruption loophole

The row is the latest in a string of controversies surrounding bids for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups which will both be awarded on December 2.

Switzerland is considering closing a loophole for sporting bodies in its anti-corruption law following allegations of bribery among Fifa officials involved in the bidding process.

Since the accusations surfaced last week, Fifa has promised a zero tolerance approach to unethical behaviour in the contest to host the.

Officials from international sport organisations are not currently covered by Switzerland's anti-corruption statutes.

Anita Thanei, a Social Democrat who heads the Swiss parliament's legal committee, said on Tuesday she would launch a parliamentary initiative for the anti-corruption laws to be amended.

"I expect the measure will find broad support," she said.

"International sporting bodies are acting in the public interest, which is why the public is legitimately bothered when such cases are not punished."

Ueli Maurer, the country's defence minister who also oversees sport, said the justice ministry would look into the matter

"It's about corruption, it's possibly about money laundering, it's about fixing bets, touches doping too," he told Swiss television late on Monday.

Politicians have called for action following news last week that two members of Fifa's executive committee were provisionally suspended on suspicion of selling their votes.

Switzerland is home to dozens of international sport organisations who choose it as a base for its favourable legal framework and tax regime.

Besides Fifa, the European football confederation and the International Olympic Committee are also located there.

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Villarreal keep Real in sight

Cani and Rossi on target to beat Atletico 2-0 in Spain while Feyenoord suffer record 10-0 thrashing in Dutch league.

Goals from Cani and Giuseppe Rossi gave Villarreal a 2-0 victory at home to Atletico Madrid which moved them up to second in the Spanish Primera Division on Sunday.

Away from Spain, honorary mention went to former European champions Feyenoord, who suffered their worst-ever defeat in the Dutch league with a 10-0 thrashing by PSV Eindhoven.

Villarreal, who have played some of the best football in Spain this season, took the lead against another side expected to be pushing for a top four finish, after a superb run and pass from Brazil striker Nilmar in the ninth minute.

Midfielder Cani profited to score with a neat touch and Italy striker Rossi twisted and turned in the area, beating three defenders, to net inside the near post after 52.

Villarreal climbed to second with 19 points from eight matches, one behind unbeaten leaders Real Madrid, who hammered Racing Santander 6-1 at the Bernabeu on Saturday.

Champions Barcelona are third on goal difference after their 2-0 victory at Real Zaragoza, also on Saturday.

Early pacesetters Valencia slipped to fourth with 16 points one ahead of Espanyol, who earlier kept pace with the top sides after a 2-1 victory at home to promoted Levante, thanks to goals from Jesus Datolo and Jose Callejon.

Atletico dropped to eighth with 13 points one behind Sevilla, who came out on top in the game of the day at the Sanchez Pizjuan where Luis Fabiano and Frederic Kanoute each scored twice in a thrilling 4-3 win over Athletic Bilbao.

Brazil striker Luis Fabiano, who has struggled for form this season, scored his first league goal of the campaign in the 35th minute and, after Mali's Kanoute had scored from the penalty spot, made it 3-0 early in the second half with a cool lob.

Bilbao's Spain striker Fernando Llorente continued his recent run of form by scoring twice in quick succession, in the 74th and 77th, with the hosts down to 10 men after a red card for Fernando Navarro.

A disputed penalty scored by Kanoute again, 10 minutes from time, appeared to have restored some order until a stoppage-time header from Bilbao's Igor Gabilondo set nerves jangling again among the home fans.

Elsewhere, Getafe beat Sporting Gijon 3-0 and Osasuna won by the same scoreline against Malaga, while the pressure remained on Almeria coach Juan Manuel Lillo after his side could only draw 1-1 at home to promoted Hercules.

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Fifa probes World Cup bids

British newspaper report names Spain/Portugal and Qatar as bid teams investigated over allegations they traded votes.

Fifa has reportedly started an investigation into Spain/Portugal and Qatar's bids to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups after allegations that they agreed to exchange votes to win their respective competitions, according to the UK's Daily Telegraph newspaper. Football's world governing body said at a news conference on Wednesday that two bids were being investigated, but the nations allegedly involved have only been named by the Daily Telegraph, citing sources at Fifa, on Thursday. "We got the information [about collusion] a few weeks ago, and there have been rumours saying that it definitely took place," Jerome Valcke, the Fifa general secretary, said at the news conference. "We said that we should ask the ethics committee to look at the case." Expulsion threat If any bidding country is found guilty they could be expelled from the process, but Fifa on Wednesday were reluctant to discuss this possibility, saying there were numerous stages to pass before such a drastic measure might be taken. The two bidders are accused of agreeing to trade blocs of votes over which they have influence, with Qatar's supporters allegedly agreeing to throw their weight behind Spain/Portugal and vice-versa, according to the Daily Telegraph. Spain/Portugal are competiting with England, Russia and Holland-Belgium for the 2018 competition, while Qatar are up against Australia, Japan, South Korea and the United States for 2022. Valcke denied on Wednesday that holding the races for 2018 and 2022 simultaneously had left them open to abuse and said that the decision on the bids would go ahead on December 2 as scheduled. "The process for 2018 and 2022 has been perfectly well managed and the ethics committee has made several interventions to make sure that the bids are complying with the rules," he said. The inquiry was announced along with the suspension of two senior Fifa committee members over allegations they attempted to sell their votes. Fifa's ethics comittee is investigating Amos Adamu of Nigeria and Reynald Temarii of Tahiti, who were alleged by an undercover investigation by the UK's Sunday Times newspaper to have offered their votes for the 2018 and 2022 competitions for money. Sepp Blatter, Fifa's president, said that the investigation into Adamu and Temarii marked a "sad day for football".

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Judge says Liverpool can be sold

High Court ruling admonishes owners for "clearest possible breach" in trying to sack board members and block sale.

Liverpool fans have protested against US ownership but could end up with a different set of Americans in charge [EPA]

One of football's most famous teams ended two days in court with a ruling that their unpopular American owners could not block the sale of the English Premier League club.

The Liverpool Football Club ownership battle came to London's High Court court after owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett tried to sack members of the board last week in a last-ditch bid to keep control of the club.

The board were in the process of agreeing a $477.2 million sale to New England Sports Ventures (NESV), the owner of the baseball team Boston Red Sox, ahead of an October 15 deadline to repay a $375.6 million debt.

Justice Floyd told a packed High Court in London that Hicks and Gillett had been guilty of the "the clearest possible breach" in terms of corporate governance rules and their bid to sack the Liverpool board.

The judge spoke for around an hour in his summing-up on Wednesday as protests against the owners continued in the street outside.

The Liverpool board including Gillett and Hicks would meet later on Wednesday to consider its next move following the judgment, lawyers on all sides and the judge agreed.

'Binding agreement'

NESV welcomed the decision said it had a binding agreement to buy the club.

"We are ready to move quickly and help create the stability and certainty which the Club needs at this time," said a statement.

"It is time to return the focus to the Club itself and performances on the pitch."

Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton told Sky Sports News after the hearing that he was "disappointed" that Gillett and Hicks had tried to breach the undertakings he said they had given him.

He continued: "The board has to be reconstituted and then re-sit this evening. I can't pre-judge what the board is going to say."

If the repayment date with major creditor the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) is missed, the five-time European champions, and historically England's most successful football club, could be put into administration and docked nine points.

Already sitting in the relegation zone with six points from seven games, that could spell disaster for manager Roy Hodgson's side.

Lawyers for Hicks and Gillett admitted to the court on Tuesday that the two men had breached their contract with RBS by trying to reshape the board but said they had been forced to do so because those members were not considering alternative offers.

The two men argued they should be given more time to find a better offer.

A second, higher bid emerged on Tuesday when Singapore billionaire Peter Lim said he was ready to make an increased cash bid for the club of $507 million.

Lim said in a statement on Wednesday: "I welcome the decision of the court.

"I hope that when the board is reconstituted tonight that it will not simply ratify a sale to NESV but will consider all the offers before them."

Lawyers for Hicks and Gillett told the court a third group, Mill Financial, had also shown an interest in the Merseyside club.

It was not yet known whether the pair would launch an appeal.

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Liverpool future in the balance

English Premier League club in London's High Court over ownership dispute as improved bid comes in from Singapore.

Singapore billionaire Peter Lim raised his offer for Liverpool football club to $507 million as the battle for the Anfield side's ownership began in London's High Court.

One of the most famous clubs in football, Liverpool have been in a downward spiral both on and off the pitch since winning their last league title in 1990 and the European Champions League in 2005.

On Tuesday, their unpopular American owners began a fight to block the sale of the club to another United States consortium as the news of the increased Singapore offer came through.

The case, which is being watched intensely by Liverpool fans who want rid of the current owners, will also go a long way to determining whether the club will go into administration over a $375.6 million debt.

Such an eventuality could see them hit with a nine-point deduction that could see them relegated from the English Premier League.

Liverpool have picked up just six points out of 21 from seven matches this season.

Owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett are trying to block the club's sale after the board agreed a $478.1 million deal with the Boston Red Sox baseball team owner, New England Sports Ventures (NESV), against their will.

Packed court

Inside a packed court room, lawyers for Hicks and Gillett admitted they had breached their contracts with major creditor Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) when they tried to sack board members in a final bid to keep control of the club.

They said Hicks and Gillett were forced to do this because those board members had failed to consult them properly and to consider alternative offers for the club.

The Americans' lawyers also argued in court that there were alternatives for RBS other than putting the club into administration.

One fan in court, Justin Room, wearing a red Liverpool shirt, told the Reuters news agency: "I've gone from five years ago in Istanbul watching us win the European Cup to being here, in a courtroom, almost bottom of the league and watching a judge decide our future.

"They've just got to get out, the owners. They're hated, absolutely hated."

The waters surrounding the club muddied further on Tuesday with the improved offer from Lim.

"I am committed to rebuild the club," Lim, who promised $63 million for new players, said in a statement.

"I believe that if its massive debt burden can be removed, the club would be able to focus on improving its performance on the pitch."

Lead Liverpool creditor the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) said in a statement on Monday that Hicks and Gillett were in breach of their contractual undertakings agreed when their loan was extended in April, but said the start of court action does not represent plans to appoint an administrator.

The holding company of the club could already technically be in default, but that would make little difference to proceedings, which will hinge on the outcome of the court case.

The case will examine whether chairman Martin Broughton had the authority to agree the deal with NESV.

According to the court's website, RBS will contest the case against the owners because Broughton believed that RBS had undertakings from the pair that only the chairman could make changes to the board.

That was required by RBS to prevent the two Americans from blocking any sale.

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Inter to make offer for Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso in June - report

European champions Inter are set to launch a raid for Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso next summer, according to reports from Italy.

Publication Corriere dello Sport comments that Nerazzurri president Massimo Moratti has set his sights on the Spaniard after becoming dismayed at the poor form and injury-prone nature of the players currently at the disposal of boss Rafa Benitez.

Argentine Esteban Cambiasso faces a spell on the sidelines through injury, while Sulley Muntari has failed to establish himself as a first-team regular.

Moratti sees Alonso, who is expected to return from a flu bug to represent Spain against Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday evening, as one of two transfer options available to him next summer.

The other is Bayern Munich star Bastian Schweinsteiger, whose current deal at the Allianz Arena expires in June of 2012 and has yet to commit to a new deal.

Reports also suggest that the German World Cup star remains the Serie A giants’ main priority, but if they are priced out of a move, then Alonso will emerge as their prime transfer target.

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Karim Benzema looks 'confused' at Real Madrid - Hugo Sanchez

Real Madrid’s legendary striker Hugo Sanchez has stated that he is unsure whether Karim Benzema has realised the importance of playing for the capital club.

The Mexican goal-getter was speaking in an interview with Spanish publication Marca, discussing the situation at Madrid, as well as what he believes the club can achieve this season under coach Jose Mourinho.

Sanchez singled out the displays of Benzema since his move from Lyon last summer, and the former Almeria coach believes that the 22-year-old has not proven himself at the club so far.

"Benzema does not know what his role is at Real Madrid. I notice that he is very confused, because he still does not know what is expected at this club. [Gonzalo] Higuain is the better option to play in white," Sanchez remarked.

Sanchez, who is the second highest goalscorer in the history of the Primera Division after spending twelve years in the league with both Madrid clubs, also passed comment on Mourinho’s chances of collecting trophies this season, as well as Cristiano Ronaldo's importance to the team.

"With Mourinho in charge, Real Madrid can win the league. What I like about the Portuguese coach is his honesty.

"In terms of Cristiano Ronaldo, people expect a lot from him and he is accountable for his performances every week."

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Chelsea ready to offer Pepe a route out of Real Madrid

Chelsea have sounded out Real Madrid defender Pepe about a move to Stamford Bridge, according to reports in Spain.

And the Blues may be willing to wait two years to snare the Portugal centre half on a free transfer.

The 27-year-old is struggling to agree a new deal at the Bernabeu and has even been linked with a shock move to Barcelona in recent days.

Chelsea want me? Pepe (left) sees the funny side of all this transfer specualtion

Well-connected Spanish radio station Cadena Ser claims Chelsea have also been in touch with the former Porto player’s representatives about a generous offer for when his current deal runs out in 2012.

Pepe is reported to have been offered £60,000 a week but is demanding an extra £25,000, which suitors may be willing to pay if he comes on a free.

Setting up a deal that would not be completed for another 20 months would be unusual to say the least and may just be a convenient tool for the player ahead of another round of contract talks next week scheduled between Madrid and Pepe’s agent Jorge Mendes.

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