FOOTBALL BRIEFS

Odem-whingie

PETER ODEMWINGIE

has lashed out at his club, West Bromwich Albion, the day after his transfer to Queens Park Rangers fell through. Odemwingie was sent home from training by Baggies boss Steve Clark ‘‘to clear his head’’ and will not feature in tomorrow’s game against Tottenham Hotspur. It’s raised speculation about the player’s career, though Odemwingie says things are being smoothed over. ‘‘I have been given a few days off and will be back in training next week,’’ he said.

Becks a banger

FRENCH NEWSPAPER

has taken a swipe at Paris St Germain’s signing of David Beckham, describing the former England captain as a ‘‘third-hand RollsRoyce’’. Beckham, 37, has signed a fivemonth deal with the club and is donating all his salary to charity – but that’s not enough for some. ‘‘A special status can feed jealousy,’’ the newspaper wrote. ‘‘In a dressing room where the offensive egos of players are struggling to live, the arrival of a

Le Figaro third-hand Rolls-Royce which becomes the main focus of media fascination risks causing envy, while feeding a climate of discord.’’

More FA charges

HUDDERSFIELD AND

Crystal Palace are the latest recipients of charges from England’s Football Association. It follows ugly scenes between the sides in an FA Cup match on Thursday which resulted in a post-match scuffle. Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and Chelsea’s Eden Hazard have also been charged by the FA in the last few days.

Suarez staying

CONTROVERSIAL LIVERPOOL

forward Luis Suarez has committed his long-term future to the club – even if they fail to qualify for the Champions League. ‘‘If we don’t qualify for the Champions League, then I will say this: I have a contract with Liverpool and I am very happy here. I will stay,’’ Suarez said.