FIFA to discuss technology

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has confirmed that world football’s governing body will discuss the use of goal-line technology, following the controversy of Frank Lampard’s ‘goal’ in the World Cup loss to Germany.

With England trailing 2-1, Lampard’s superb chip beat goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and bounced down well over the line, but the match officials failed to spot the incident correctly and play continued.

Germany went on to secure a comfortable 4-1 victory, while later on that same day, Argentina’s 3-1 win over Mexico was marred by Carlos Tevez opening the scoring for a clearly offside position.

Blatter told a media briefing in South Africa: “I have spoken to the two federations (England and Mexico) directly concerned by referees’ mistakes.

“I have expressed to them apologies and I understand they are not happy and that people are criticising.”

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Palermo have confirmed that a 35million euro deal has been agreed with Tottenham Hotspur which will see Denmark defender Simon Kjaer and Uruguay forward Edinson Cavani head to White Hart Lane.

President Maurizio Zamparini has revealed that Spurs have won the race to snap up the highly-rated duo, who had been linked with a number of clubs across Europe.

Manchester City are finally set to complete the signing of Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure from Barcelona.

The 27-year-old, who can also play in defence, has been on World Cup duty with his country in recent times, but is now set to put the finishing touches on a switch to Eastlands, as soon as Barca’s new president, Sandro Rosell, takes office.

Real Madrid have confirmed that they have reached a deal reportedly worth around 35million euros with Benfica for Argentina winger Angel di Maria.

The 22-year-old is currently on World Cup duty with the Albiceleste in South Africa, having helped his country reach the quarter-finals, where they will face Germany.

Marseille head coach Didier Deschamps has closed the door on a possible move to Liverpool by extending his contract with the French champions.

The 41-year-old former Juventus, Chelsea and France midfielder is now under contract at the Stade Velodrome until the summer of 2012, having recently been linked with the vacant position at Anfield.

Melbourne Rebels have played down reports that Danny Cipriani is keen to end his stay in Australia after splitting with his girlfriend, Kelly Brook.

The Daily Mail suggested that the 22-year-old fly-half had become disillusioned with rugby union and was set to leave the Super 15 side.

However, Rebels coach Rod MacQueen said: “Danny’s a little broken-hearted after breaking up with his girlfriend but, as far as I know, he’s not trying to get out of his contract.”

In cricket, Middlesex have confirmed their interest in signing England batsman Kevin Pietersen when he leaves Hampshire at the end of the current county season.

The 30-year-old South Africa-born right-hander is keen for a move closer to his London home and Middlesex are not fazed by the probability of Pietersen playing few games in the domestic arena.