Carrick: Midfielder Michael Carrick has been awarded a testimonial by Manchester United at the end of the season, with the former England international donating all proceeds to charity. The 35-year-old Carrick, who is also current vice-captain of the club, has spent 11 years at United and has won 16 major trophies with the club, including five Premier League titles. The match is to be held on June 4.
Sacristan: Eusebio Sacristan has ruled himself out of the running to replace Luis Enrique as Barcelona coach, insisting he sees himself at Real Sociedad for a long time. “As I already said when I renewed my contract a little while ago: my mind, my spirit and my desire is to be with Real Sociedad,” he said. “My head is here 100 per cent, so there’s nothing more in it and there’s not going to be.”
Jansson: Garry Monk has dismissed reports that Pontus Jansson will leave the club in summer and join Southampton. Reports suggested that the Saints sent a scout to watch Jansson in their recent fixture with Sheffield Wednesday. “I don’t need to comment on rumours,” Monk said. “He is a Leeds player and he is here and ready to fight.”
MAXWELL: Goalkeeper Chris Maxwell has signed a new contract with Preston until 2020. The 26-year-old has made 29 appearances after joining last summer. “I’m absolutely delighted. It is fantastic knowing that I’m going to be here for an extra year as well,” he told the club website. “It gives me an opportunity to help progress Preston North End and hopefully progress myself in the process.”
Patricio: Watford are reportedly interested in Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio. The Watford Observer say the Hornets have sent scouts to watch the 29-year-old, who won Euro 2016 with his country last summer. Apparently Portuguese newspaper A Bola have quoted the goalkeeper as saying he is not sure if he will finish his career with current club Sporting Lisbon.
Bilic: Slaven Bilic said West Ham would not sell Andy Carroll, following recent speculation that he was attracting interest from the Chinese Super League. “He’s one of our best players and we want to keep him. We wouldn’t want to sell Andy to China,” the Hammers boss told reporters.