Hamann: Liverpool's Champions League hopes have been boosted by the return to fitness of Dietmar Hamann. Liverpool play Chelsea in the second leg of their semi-final at Anfield on Tuesday without the suspended Xabi Alonso. The Spaniard's absence had looked costly with the tie level at 0-0 from the first leg, but Liverpool now have experienced German international Hamann to take his place. "Didi is fit and he will be in the squad," manager Rafael Benitez said. "His knee was a problem but he has recovered."

Defoe: Striker Jermain Defoe has signed a new four-year contract at Tottenham. The 22-year-old's new deal follows British media reports linking him to Champions League semi-finalists Chelsea. Defoe has prospered since signing from West Ham in February 2004 for £7 million and forced his way into the England squad. He has scored 22 goals for eighth-placed Spurs this season.

Le Guen: Rumours about his future are intensifying but Lyon coach Paul Le Guen is keeping everybody guessing. "I haven't taken my decision yet," he told Reuters. Lyon are almost certain to win a fourth consecutive Ligue 1 title, their third under Le Guen's guidance, but they still do not know who will coach them next season. Le Guen, who joined them in 2002, has a contract running until June 30. Media reports are suggesting he might leave, some saying he might accept a managing role at Paris SG.

Creditor protection: Cambridge United filed for creditor protection yesterday after their relegation from the fourth and lowest division of the English league. The club in eastern England has liabilities of £900,000 and "assets which are in no way sufficient to meet these debts", said finance director Nick Pomery. Pomery said the club needed to raise about £250,000 if they were to survive. Cambridge will continue to trade under the day-to-day management of financial administrators.

In England: The Championship - West Ham vs Sunderland 1-2. League One - Tranmere vs Port Vale 1-0.