Football news

The families of the 96 Liverpool fans killed in the Hillsborough disaster have requested that Kenny Dalglish receives a knighthood.

Former Lord Mayor of Liverpool Steve Rotherham MP told fans at a memorial service in Anfield on Friday that the families had asked him to put down an Early Day Motion requesting that the Queen confer a knighthood on the Liverpool manager.

Mr Rotherham said it was “so that on all our behalf the King of the Kop can become Sir Kenny”.

The announcement was met with cheers and a standing ovation from the Liverpool faithful and chants of “Kenny, Kenny”.

Ronaldo wants son to play football

Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo said he hopes his nine-month-old son who he named after himself will one day succeed him on the football pitch.

“I think he’s going to be very smart, at least smarter than me,” the striker said.

“I will let him be whatever he wants... but I’m not going to lie to you, I would like him to be my successor... but he will be whatever God wants him to be.

“I’m a good father. I’m still learning. You cannot express the feeling of being a dad in words. It is impressive to wake up in the morning and see a person of your own flesh and blood,” he added.

No change in philosophy – Wenger

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has made it clear he is not prepared to compromise his footballing philosophy now that the club is owned by American tycoon Stan Kroenke.

That philosophy – of putting faith in young and therefore inexpensive players – is set to receive one of the sternest tests of the season today when Liverpool are the visitors to the Emirates Stadium.

“We have a squad which is about 23 years of age and in a strong position in the league,” he said.

“We will continue to run the club like it has been done until now – that means live within our resources, produce our own resources and develop our football team.”

Clampdown on anti-Hoeness slogans

Bayern Munich have said any banners with slogans criticising club president Uli Hoeness at their Allianz Arena stadium for today’s key game with Bayer Leverkusen will be removed.

Bayern sacked coach Louis van Gaal last week and emotions are still running high at the defending champions as Hoeness has fallen offside with fans after offering financial help to bitter rivals 1860 Munich.

“Football fans at the Allianz Arena are allowed to express their opinions, even when critical, but insulting the opponent and individuals are not part of Bayern’s hospitality – and will not be accepted,” said the club in a statement.

Kuyt commits to Liverpool

Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt has agreed a one-year contract extension to remain at Anfield until 2013, his management company have announced.

The Holland international, who joined the Reds from Feyenoord in 2006, was contracted until next summer but has been rewarded for his form this season.

The 30-year-old said: “I am very happy. We have spent a long time (in discussions) but always with the intention to reach an agree-ment.

“All the conversations were conducted in a friendly atmos-phere. It fits perfectly with the feeling I got at this club. Since the day I first walked in, I felt welcome.”

Gladbach chief hits out at referee

Borussia M’gladbach director of sport Max Eberl labelled referee Deniz Aytekin a “coward” after his side were beaten 1-0 by Mainz late Friday.

The defeat left the Foals rooted to the foot of the table with little chance of avoiding relegation.

Eberl was quick to blame the referee, unhappy that Aytekin failed to give his side a penalty when Marco Reus was fouled by Eugen Polanski while also showing Gladbach forward Mike Hanke a red card.

“It is a farce,” he said.

“If he gives a second yellow card (to Hanke), then he has got to give the penalty. On the one hand he acts consequentially, yet on the other hand he is a coward.”

Seven Old Firm players in Best XI

Four Celtic players and three from Rangers are in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year.

Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor is joined by Madjid Bougherra and Steven Naismith in the 4-3-3 formation, with Celtic defenders Mark Wilson and Emilio Izaguirre accompanied by Beram Kayal in midfield and Gary Hooper up front.

Hearts’ Marius Zaliukas completes the defence, while Naismith and Kayal are joined in midfield by Alexei Eremenko, of Kilmar-nock.

Conor Sammon, who left Killie in January for Wigan, has been named up front alongside Hooper and Dundee United’s David Goodwillie.