Martinez: Bayern Munich holding midfielder Javi Martinez could make his Bundesliga comeback after more than a year out with torn ligaments, Bayern coach Pep Guardiola said. “He (Martinez) is still not fully at 100 per cent but he has trained well,” Guardiola told reporters. “So he is happy and I am happier. Javi is a fighter. He has no fear and wants to play.”

De Bruyne: Manchester City playmaker David Silva will miss today’s Premier League game at Crystal Palace with an ankle injury, but 50 million-pound signing Kevin De Bruyne could make his debut in the Spaniard’s absence. Manager Manuel Pellegrini will not risk Silva for the clash and the midfielder has joined Pablo Zabaleta, Gael Clichy and Fabian Delph on the injury list.

Bilyaletdinov: Head coach Rinat Bilyaletdinov has left Rubin Kazan. Bilyaletdinov, 58, took over at the twice Premier League champions in January 2014 but Rubin have struggled this season, losing six out of seven matches. The side from Tatarstan have three points and are a place off the bottom of the table.

Messi: Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is ready to play in today’s La Liga match at Atletico Madrid despite missing training yesterday for personal reasons. Messi has not trained since returning from international duty with Argentina but is in the squad for the clash at the Calderon. Media reports said that Messi was absent due to the birth of his second son.

Walters: Mark Hughes has confirmed Jonathan Walters will be in Stoke’s squad at Arsenal after the transfer window closed without him moving away. Walters was left out of the 18 when the Potters lost to West Brom last time around amid interest in his signature from Norwich but Hughes is now ready to usher him back into the fold in North London today.

Championship: Reading vs Ipswich Town 5-1.

FA trophy: First round – Kerċem Ajax vs Kalkara 6-0.

Scottish Premier: Inverness vs Hearts 2-0.