Football/Soccer 3h Briefing
×International Football
Scotland bbc.com are forced into a change of opponent for their final World Cup warm-up as Rangers weigh up the impact of a high-profile loan signing. The alteration comes ahead of crucial international preparations.
World Cup Qualifiers
Nadene Caldwell bbc.com says Northern Ireland wants to build momentum into their World Cup qualifiers by securing early points on the board. The midfielder emphasized the importance of starting strongly in qualifying matches.
Club Football
Cole Palmer bbc.com is struggling to match his sensational 2024 form after being named the eighth-best player in the world at the Ballon d'Or ceremony. Chelsea is working to help kick-start the young midfielder's season.
Former Players
Michael Carrick bbc.com returns to St James' Park with Manchester United on Wednesday night, though the boyhood Newcastle supporter has not forgotten his roots. The manager will face his former club where he began his career.