Togo: Frenchman Didier Six looks set to stand down as Togo coach after almost two years in the role. Togo lie bottom of African World Cup qualifying Group I after five games, and the 58-year-old does not plan to be at the helm for the final qualifier against Congo DR in September. Six, who took up the Togo reins in November 2011 and is under contract until next year, was quoted as saying on Radio Frequence 1: “I will not be the coach of Togo in September.”
Aspas: Liverpool have confirmed the signing of striker Iago Aspas from Celta Vigo. The 25-year-old, who scored 12 goals for Primera Liga club Celta last season, has signed a long-term contract with the Reds after passing his medical at Melwood. The deal is subject to international clearance, Liverpool announced on their website.
Poyet: Gus Poyet has been sacked as Brighton manager following a decision by the npower Championship club's internal disciplinary panel. Brighton released a statement to confirm Poyet's departure last night, a day before the players are due to report back for the first day of pre-season. Poyet led Brighton to the play-offs last season but his tenure had become uncertain after it was revealed that the Uruguayan, assistant manager Mauricio Taricco and coach Charlie Oatway were told to stay away from the club.
Thailand: Thailand face a FIFA-imposed suspension today after a lowly fourth tier club refused to balk at pressure from the world governing body to drop a court order halting controversial reforms that has left the game in crisis. Thai FA (FAT) leader and FIFA executive committee member Worawi Makudi has also, so far unsuccessfully, pressured Pattaya FC to drop the court injunction which led to him postponing last Sunday’s FAT presidential elections indefinitely.
Friedrich: Former Germany defender Arne Friedrich has announced his retirement from professional football. The 34-year-old, who spent the 2012/12 season with MLS side the Chicago Fire having previously played for the likes of Hertha Berlin and Wolfsburg in Germany, took the decision after seeking medical advice on a back problem.