Sporting briefs

Owen: Manchester United striker Michael Owen is set to be out of action until at least Christmas with a thigh injury. Owen suffered his latest fitness setback during the recent 2-0 Champions League home win against Otelul Galati.

Parolo: Lazio are set to rekindle their interest in Marco Parolo of Cesena in the winter transfer window. Lazio tried to sign Parolo in summer but with scant success as he decided to stay put. Lazio are now ready to tempt struggling Cesena into a sale by handing over cash and a player in return.

Pires: Ex-France and Arsenal winger Robert Pires claims he has rejected an approach from Doncaster. The 38-year-old play-maker has been without a club since his release by Aston Villa last summer. Pires Tweeted: “Doncaster people called me! I am happy they think I can help them but it’s not in my plan to play there.”

Illicit chants: Celtic will next month face disciplinary action from UEFA over “illicit chanting” in the Europa League win over Rennes at Parkhead. A spokesperson for UEFA said Celtic will be called before the organisation’s control and disciplinary body on December 8 to face a charge of an incident of an unsporting nature during the 3-1 defeat of the French side on November 3.

Atzori: Sampdoria sacked coach Gianluca Atzori following the 1-0 upset at home to Vicenza in the Serie B on Sunday. Sampdoria had managed only five wins this term and are well off promotion pace.

Clemence: The Football Association have confirmed goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence has been admitted to hospital. Clemence began to feel unwell on Friday, when he missed training and also Saturday’s friendly win over world champions Spain.