Sporting briefs

Robben: Bayern Munich’s Arjen Robben has given fans hope that he could be back scoring goals after taking part in training yesterday for the first time since undergoing groin surgery in October. His appearance has raised hopes he could be ready for Bayern’s league clash against Borussia Dortmund tomorrow week.

Cech fit: Czech goalkeeper Petr Cech is fit to face Montenegro in today’s Euro 2012 play-off despite his broken nose, Czech team doctor Petr Krejci said yesterday. “He feels pain after certain hits, but it’s still an injury he can play with,” Krejci said, adding however that the final decision would be up to Cech himself.

Barcelona: Barcelona had to settle for a 1-0 victory against third-tier club CD L’Hospitalet in the first leg of their Spanish Cup last 32 tie on Wednesday night. Andres Iniesta scoring the winner. The European champions had to do without several first-team regulars, but coach Pep Guardiola still sent out a strong team containing Carles Puyol, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas and David Villa.

Adebayor: Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor has made himself available for selection by Togo, 18 months after he announced his retirement from international football. Adebayor will be available to play in his country’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

UEFA U-21: Slovenia vs Lithuania 2-0; Switzerland vs Georgia 5-0; Spain vs Estonia 6-0; Albania vs Russia 0-1; Turkey vs Italy 0-2; Norway vs Belgium 2-2; England vs Iceland 5-0; France vs Romania 3-0; Austria vs Bulgaria 0-2.

Friendly: Gabon vs Brazil 0-2.