Sacked: Almeria have sacked coach Francisco Rodriguez after Monday’s 5-2 drubbing at Eibar left them winless in La Liga in eight matches and mired in 17th place in the standings. Team physio Sergio Pardo will take charge of training while the club look for a replacement, Almeria said. Rodriguez’s replacement would be appointed in time to take charge of Friday’s La Liga game at home to leaders Real Madrid.

Fabianski: Swansea goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski will miss Sunday’s Premier League clash with Tottenham after having his one-match ban confirmed by the English FA. The Poland international had his appeal claim of wrongful dismissal rejected following an independent regulatory commission hearing yesterday. Fabianski was sent off in Swansea’s 3-1 defeat at West Ham for a professional foul on Diafra Sakho.

Craig goes: Tommy Craig has left his post as St Mirren manager, reports said yesterday. The 64-year-old has parted company with the Paisley club after only 19 games as boss and with the Buddies second bottom of the Scottish Premiership and out of both domestic trophies. Craig stepped up from assistant in the summer following the departure of Danny Lennon.

Pastore: Javier Pastore is confident of earning a new contract with Paris St Germain after his strong start to this season. The Argentina midfielder scored a well-taken opener in PSG’s recent win over Metz. “The club have spoken with my agent. For now, there is nothing concrete but I think I will prolong with Paris. It’s my wish and also that of the club,” he said.

Palmeiras: Brazil’s Palmeiras parted company with coach Dorival yesterday, a day after narrowly escaping relegation to Serie B. Palmeiras celebrated their 100th anniversary this year and opened a brand new 630 million real ($242.34m) stadium in November, but they struggled on the field and needed a point at home to avoid their second relegation in 12 years.

Coyle: Owen Coyle has been named as the new head coach of Major League Soccer club Houston Dynamo. The ex-Bolton manager admitted it was “nice to be wanted” after securing his first coaching job in a year. Coyle left his post as Wigan manager late last year.

Scottish Cup: Fourth round – Albion Rovers vs Berwick 0-1; Brechin vs Annan 4-2; Dunfermline vs Stranraer 1-3.

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