Tomkins: Sam Allardyce will be forced to field James Tomkins at Southampton tonight, despite the defender suffering from a broken nose. Tomkins was caught by Robin van Persie’s arm in Sunday’s draw with Man. United but, with fellow central defenders Winston Reid and James Collins still missing, he will again partner stand-in Cheik-hou Kouyate at St Mary’s.
Marney: Burnley have been dealt a major blow in their bid for Premier League survival with the news Dean Marney will miss the rest of the season after damaging his cruciate knee ligament. The midfielder has been one of the stalwarts of Sean Dyche’s team and will not be easy to replace. There did not appear too much to worry about when he was substituted at half-time during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with West Brom but scans have seen Burnley’s worst fears realised.
Bothroyd: Former England international striker Jay Bothroyd has signed for Jubilo Iwata, the Japanese second tier club said yesterday. The much-travelled forward had been without a team since leaving Thai side Muangthong United last year. No terms or contract length were revealed by the three-times Japanese champions. Bothroyd won his only England cap in 2010 when Fabio Capello was in charge, coming on as a second half substitute in a 2-1 friendly loss to France.
Syme: Tributes were paid yesterday to Forfar defender Jack Syme, who has died at the age of 20. The body of Syme was discovered at the foot of cliffs at Kinnoull Hill, on the outskirts of Perth, on Monday. Alastair Donald, chairman of the Scottish League One club tweeted: “All at FAFC are saddened to learn of the death of our development squad player Jack Syme. The thoughts are with the family.”
Cassano: Torino are not interested in signing free agent Antonio Cassano, according to president Urbano Cairo. The 32-year-old Italy striker is available after rescinding his contract with financially stricken Parma last month, and he recently rejected the chance to rejoin hometown club Bari, who are currently in Serie B. “Cassano? Absolutely not,” Cairo said. “We are looking for lads with potential and experienced players who can bring something to the changing room – that’s important. Torino are okay as they are.”