JULY

1885: The FA legalised professionalism in football.

1986: Britain’s Frank Bruno challenged Tim Witherspoon for the world heavyweight title. He was knocked out in the 11th round. 2003: Ben Curtis of the United States was a surprise winner of the Open at Royal St George’s, Sandwich.

2005: Peter Crouch joined Liverpool from Southampton for £7million.

2012: Manchester United confirmed a bid for Arsenal captain Robin van Persie.