Troussier: Benin have ended a bid to persuade French coach Philippe Troussier to take over their team. Benin, surprise qualifiers for the African Nations Cup finals in Ghana next month, offered Troussier the post last month, giving the well-travelled Frenchman a chance to return to the game after two years without a job. Troussier's insistence that he wanted to take charge of Benin only for three months proved the stumbling block.

Franco sidelined: Atletico Madrid's Argentine international goalkeeper Leo Franco is likely to be sidelined until the start of next year after tearing a thigh muscle in his right leg during his side's 2-0 victory over Real Betis at the weekend. Italian keeper Christian Abbiati will take the Argentine's place in the first team.

Moyes: Everton manager Davis Moyes has denied a charge of improper conduct. Moyes was charged for criticising referee Mark Clattenburg to reporters after the derby against local rivals Liverpool on Oct. 20.

Maradona Jr: Diego Mara-dona's son Diego Junior is poised to sign a deal with Italian Serie D side Venafro.

Romario: Former Brazil striker Romario was named player-coach of Vasco da Gama yesterday. Romario will be in charge of Vasco for the opening games of next season.

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