Paul Collingwood will play his 30th consecutive Test against New Zealand at Lord's this week hoping to avert shoulder surgery as long as possible.

Amir Khan has indicated his willingness to relocate to the United States if that is what it takes to link up with a world-class trainer and continue his rise towards the top of his sport.

Tiger Woods is on course to play in next month's US Open following knee surgery.

New England captain Steve Borthwick has been backed as "a model player" to set the rigorous standards demanded on next month's New Zealand tour.

Wasps director of rugby Ian McGeechan is expected to be confirmed as head coach of the 2009 British and Irish Lions on Wednesday - and dissenting voices are impossible to find.

Chelsea manager Avram Grant expects captain John Terry and striker Didier Drogba to be fit for the Champions League final and insists Manchester United are not the better team.

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon admits it would be "almost impossible" to sign Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech is set to pledge his future to the club by signing a new two-year contract extension in the summer.

West Ham striker Dean Ashton will meet club officials at the end of the week to start discussions over terms for a new contract at Upton Park.

England have confirmed Andrew Flintoff would have made his Test comeback against New Zealand this week had he not suffered an untimely side strain.

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