FOOTBALL SHORTS

MANCHESTER UNITED midfielder Nemanja Matic must quarantine on his return to the UK following his retirement from international football. The Serbia FA confirmed Matic’s decision to quit playing for his country yesterday, when sporting director Vladimir Matijasevic said: ‘Other than saying it was time for younger players to take over, Matic did not state any other specific reasons for quitting. ‘We respect his decision. He is 32 and he’s had an exerting club season.’ But it means former Chelsea star Matic (above), under UK Covid regulations, will be required to self-isolate upon his return to Manchester. Had he met up with his national team he would not have been required to quarantine because he would have been covered by the ‘elite sportsperson’ protocol.

CHELSEA have hailed Thiago Silva’s ‘proven world-class credentials’ after finalising the Brazil centre back’s free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain. The 35-year-old has signed a one-year contract, with the club holding the option of adding another 12 months. Silva’s addition will help manager Frank Lampard restructure his defence, and follows Wednesday’s £45million capture of England left back Ben Chilwell from Leicester. ‘We are delighted to be able to add a player of Thiago Silva’s proven world-class credentials to our squad,’ said Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia. Silva added: ‘I am delighted to be a part of Frank Lampard’s exciting squad for next season and I’m here to challenge for honours.’

NEWCASTLE goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has been ruled out for two months after training on his injured ankle, robbing manager Steve Bruce of his player of the year. Bruce will now turn to Karl Darlow.