Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has laughed off Wigan chairman Dave Whelan's suggestion that the Latics' 9-1 thrashing by Tottenham was partly down to some of Bruce's "dodgy" signings when he was in charge of the side. - The Times

Out-of-favour Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy will reject Arsenal in favour of a move to Liverpool on loan. - Daily Mirror

Tottenham want to sign Manchester City defender Micah Richards in the January transfer window. - Daily Mirror

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright's attempts to sell the club have suffered a major blow after planning permission for a new stadium was rejected. - The Independent

Stamford Bridge looks likely to miss out on being one of the grounds included in England's 2018 World Cup bid as there is not enough room around the stadium but the London Olympic Stadium is likely to be included. - Daily Mail

Former Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson could return to management at Sheffield United - if Kevin Blackwell is sacked. The Blades have won only one of their last nine games. - Daily Mirror

Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo returned to action in the Champions League on Tuesday after two months out with an ankle injury and should be available for the top-of-the-table La Liga clash with Barcelona this weekend. - Daily Mirror

Rangers midfielder Lee McCulloch fears the team could be broken up after their exit from the Champions League. - The Guardian