Sporting briefs

Marcos: Former international goalkeeper Marcos, who helped Brazil win the 2002 World Cup, announced his retirement after 20 years spent with Palmeiras. The 38-year-old, who kept goal in their 2-0 win over Germany in the 2002 World Cup final, also won the Copa Libertadores in 1999 and the 2005 Confederations Cup.

Ring: B. M’gladbach hope they have found the man to replace Marco Reus, who will move to Borussia Dortmund next summer, by signing Alexander Ring on loan from HJK Helsinki. The 20-year-old will play for the Bundesliga side for the next 18 months.

Clement: Blackburn have confirmed that assistant manager Paul Clement has left the club and he is now expected to join Carlo Ancelotti at PSG. Clement worked with Ancelotti at Chelsea.

Sigurdsson: New Swansea signing Gylfi Sigurdsson is in line to make his debut in today’s FA Cup meeting with Barnsley at Oakwell. The Iceland international joined on loan from Hoffenheim earlier this week and could be handed an immediate chance to impress.

Given: Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish believes that goalkeeper Shay Given is close to being fully fit again after a month on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. The Irish international could even be available for selection for clash against Everton on January 14. “Shay is not far away and feels he could be ready pretty soon,” McLeish said.

Valencia: Brazilian striker Jonas scored the only goal as Valencia edged Sevilla 1-0 in their Spanish Cup last 16 first leg clash late Thursday. Jonas found the target at the Mestalla in the 33rd minute after being set up by Jeremy Mathieu.

Muscat: Melbourne Victory sacked coach Mehmet Durakovic after a stuttering start to the season that has seen them win just three games while losing five and drawing six. Assistant coach Kevin Muscat will take over as caretaker for today’s A-League clash with Newcastle .

Division Three: Sta Venera vs Siġġiewi 1-1.

League One:Wycombe vs Huddersfield 0-6.

League two: Burton Albion vs Accrington 0-2