MESSI CLAIMS BALLON D’OR HAT-TRICK

Lionel Messi has been awarded the FIFA Ballon d'Or for the third successive year, beating team-mate Xavi and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo to the title of the world's best player.

SION BEGIN LEGAL ACTION AGAINST FIFA

Sion have commenced legal proceedings against members of FIFA's executive committee over its threat to suspend Switzerland from world football.

OLD FRIENDS EYE BERBATOV RETURN

The representatives of Dimitar Berbatov have claimed that the Manchester United striker’s former club Bayer Leverkusen are keen on bringing him back to Germany.

KEANE HITS BACK AT FERGUSON

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has defended his right to criticise his old club following their Champions League exit earlier this month.

ITALIAN TESTS FOR ARSENAL, CHELSEA

Arsenal will meet AC Milan in the last 16 of the Champions League, while Chelsea have been drawn against Napoli.