Premier League Managers Meet Regarding Covid-19, Pele Released From Hospital

Andy Murray back in Australian Open action next month after 3-year absence

SOCCER

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has urged clubs to consider going on strike to protect player welfare, as Covid-19 causes a more congested fixture schedule.

Two St. Stephen's Day games have already been postponed due to virus outbreaks in squads, and it's expected more could be shelved.

Premier League officials met managers and captains yesterday - but it's thought little was achieved.

Everton will be without 11 players for their match against Burnley due to Covid-19 and injuries - but their request for a postponement was refused.

=

Three-time World Cup winner Pele was released from hospital in Sao Paulo last night but will continue being treated for a colon tumour.

The 81 year-old former forward was admitted at the beginning of the month for sessions of chemotherapy.

RUGBY

Ulster and Connacht will name their sides today for their St. Stephen's Day inter-pro derby.

The sides meet in the United Rugby Championship at the Kingspan Stadium on Sunday evening.

CRICKET

Ireland have leveled their series against the USA.

Having lost the opening T-20 international, the visitors claimed a nine-run victory in Florida overnight.

Lorcan Tucker top-scored with 84 off 56 balls as Ireland posted a total of 150, with the USA managing 141 for 7 from their 20 overs.

The sides meet again on St Stephen's Day in the first of three one-day internationals.

DARTS

Raymond Van Barneveld is out of the World Darts Championship.

The five-time World Champion suffered a 3-1 defeat to 2018 winner Rob Cross last night.

The action at the Alexandra Palace will resume on December 27th.

TENNIS

Andy Murray will make his first appearance at the Australian Open tennis in three years next month.

The three-time Grand Slam winner's been given a wildcard for the tournament in Melbourne.

Murray, who has been working his way back up the rankings after hip surgery, tearfully admitted that the 2019 event could be his last.