Mcleish: Portsmouth have been refused permission to hold talks with under-fire Rangers manager Alex McLeish over a switch to the struggling Premier League club. "We can confirm that we have received an approach by Portsmouth FC asking for permission to hold talks with our manager Alex McLeish. Permission was not granted," Rangers said. Frenchman Alain Perrin was sacked by Portsmouth last week after a disappointing run of results that has left them languishing in 18th place with 10 points from 14 matches. Portsmouth also want to hold talks with Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock, who has guided his side to second place in the second division.

Robinho: Robinho says he is trying hard to adapt to life at Real Madrid and fans should be patient with him after a tough start to the Brazilian forward's career in Spain. The 21-year-old international has come under fire from fans after failing to live up to expectations. "The pressure is something you have to expect at Real," Robinho said. "I have to work hard and deliver on the pitch, though it has been hard with injuries and suspensions in the side. "The fans have to be patient. I have a lot to give them."

Best Funeral: All soccer matches in Northern Ireland on Saturday have been postponed to mark the funeral of George Best, the country's most famous footballer, the Irish FA (IFA) said. Matches have been rescheduled for different days. The 59-year-old Manchester United winger, who died last week, will be buried in his home town of Belfast after a funeral service at Stormont, home to Northern Ireland's parliament buildings. Up to half a million people are expected to gather to pay their tributes.

Xavier: Middlesbrough defender Abel Xavier is to appeal against his 18-month ban for failing a drugs test, UEFA said yesterday. The Portugal international, who turns 33 today, tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid dianabol after a UEFA Cup tie against Greek club Xanthi on Sept. 29. The analysis of a B-sample confirmed the initial finding and UEFA banned Xavier, who has denied any wrongdoing, for 18 months last week.

Anti-semitic chants: One of Hungary's main Jewish organisations has demanded the Hungarian FA takes action after anti-semitic chanting at a weekend match. The Federation of Hungarian Jewish Communities said in a statement that fans from first division Ujpest shouted abuse at supporters of MTK, a club which has a long Jewish history. Ujpest said the chanting was limited to a small number of people. The club condemned it and said it would do its best to prevent the fans concerned from attending games.

Hearts: Scottish Premier League club Hearts reported pre-tax losses of £2,728,000 to year ended July 31 2005. The losses were almost £300,000 greater than last year despite an increase in turnover of 1,266,000 pounds, the club said.