Gerrard: Zinedine Zidane has defended Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard, following comments in Alex Ferguson’s autobiography. In his book, the former Manchester United boss claimed that Gerrard has never been a “top, top player”. Zidane said: “For two or three years, Gerrard was the best midfielder in the world. Ferguson is a great coach but I did find his comments about Gerrard very strange... to say he is not a top player is wrong.”

Kiwomya: Chris Kiwomya has left his post as manager of Notts County by mutual consent. Kiwomya has been in charge of the first team since February this year following the departure of Keith Curle. County lost 1-0 at home to Preston on Saturday, leaving them bottom of League One.

Palmeiras: Palmeiras were booed off the pitch after a 0-0 draw with Sao Caetano yesterday that ensured the former champions would return to the Brazilian top flight next year. Palmeiras, who took the field in the traditional Brazil strip, could not find a way to score against a side second bottom in second division. Palmeiras, who were relegated last year, have won eight national titles in total.

Short error: Sunderland owner Ellis Short has admitted he got it wrong when he appointed Paolo Di Canio as coach. The Italian lasted only 13 games despite guiding the Black Cats to Premier League safety last season. Short said: “The club has been in turmoil as a result of the change of head coach. I have to take the blame for that. Clearly at least one of the decisions I made over the last several months was the wrong one.”

Celtic win: Substitute Amido Balde cemented Celtic’s place at the top of the Scottish Premiership by grabbing the winner in a 2-1 victory over Partick Thistle at Firhill, yesterday. Georgios Samaras opened the scoring but Jags striker Kris Doolan levelled in the 65th minute. However, 10 minutes later Balde finished off a solo run to take the three points back to Glasgow and leave the Hoops unbeaten.