Sporting briefs...

Schalke: Bundesliga leaders Schalke 04 have extended coach Mirko Slomka's contract for two years to the end of June 2009, the club said yesterday. Slomka's achievements as coach and his vision for Schalke's future were the main reasons for the contract extension, director of football Andreas Mueller said. "Our expectations before the start of the season have been fulfilled, in that we have been able to join the fight for the championship - even if we, of course, want more," Mueller said.

Taylor quits: Scottish FA chief executive David Taylor is to quit later this month for the post of UEFA general secretary. Taylor joined the SFA in August 1999 and president John McBeth will act as caretaker until a replacement is found.

Luton: Luton Town sacked manager Mike Newell after a poor run of results. A statement said the club, second from bottom of the English second division, had "terminated with immediate effect" Newell's contract. Newell courted controversy during his four seasons in charge, particularly through his criticism of football agents and sexist comments he made about lineswoman Amy Rayner in November 2006.

Jaidi: Birmingham City defender Radhi Jaidi has been recalled to the Tunisia squad for next week's African Nation Cup qualifier against the Seychelles, reversing a decision he made last September to retire from internationals. The 31-year-old was named by coach Roger Lemerre in a 22-man squad for the Group Four qualifier in Victoria on March 24.

Ireland: Ireland coach Steve Staunton has called up two new players as part of a 24-man squad for the Euro 2008 qualifiers at home to Wales and Slovakia later this month. Celtic defender Darren O'Dea and Wigan Athletic striker Caleb Folan were included in the senior squad for the first time for the Group D matches against Wales at Croke Park on March 24, followed by the visit of Slovakia four days later.

Kanoute Returns: Frederic Kanoute returns to Mali's squad for next week's African Nations Cup qualifier against Benin after missing their last international through injury. The Sevilla striker is to be allowed to arrive late for the Group Nine match in Bamako on March 25 so he can play in a cup match against Real Betis on Tuesday.

In Gozo: Division One - Kercem Ajax vs Qala St Joseph 2-1. Division Two - SK Victoria Wanderers vs Oratory Youths 5-2.