Sporting briefs

Ben Arfa: France forward Hatem Ben Arfa, 21, is joining Olympique Marseille from French champions Olympique Lyon, Marseille said yesterday. He was taking a medical test during the day before signing his contract.

Arshavin dream: Russia playmaker Andrei Arshavin has his heart set on a move to Barcelona this summer after Euro 2008, revealing that playing for the club he supported as a boy is his "dream". "I have supported Barcelona all my life," he said. "I never thought I would have a chance to play for the club. Let's see how the situation unfolds."

Podolski: Cologne coach Christoph Daum insists the club will not let up in their pursuit of Lukas Podolski. A host of other clubs have also expressed their interest in the Bayern Munich forward. "Even if it may sound unrealistic, we are not allowed to give up on it. We have to keep on it without kicking up too much of a fuss," Daum said.

Dempsey dies: Charlie Dempsey, New Zealand's former long-serving president of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) died on Tuesday aged 86, the OFC said. Dempsey served as OFC president from 1982-2000 but was best known for his controversial involvement in the selection of the hosts for the 2006 World Cup. Germany were awarded the 2006 World Cup after Dempsey abstained from voting when FIFA's executive committee met to decide the host nation.

Iraq appeal: FIFA has shot down Iraq's appeal for Qatar to be expelled from 2010 World Cup qualifying for fielding an ineligible player. Iraq, who were knocked out of the competition on Sunday after losing to Qatar, claimed the participation of Brazilian-born Emerson in Qatar's qualifying campaign was illegal. However FIFA, who have since banned Emerson, said Iraq's complaint was filed too late and ruled that Qatar could keep their place in the final round.