Deschamps: Zidane's Champions League win is amazing

France head coach Didier Deschamps hailed the "amazing" achievement of Zinedine Zidane after his former international colleague secured Champions League glory with Real Madrid.

Zidane was parachuted into the top job at Santiago Bernabeu in January after a fractious half-season under Rafael Benitez, with Madrid pushing Barcelona all the way in the fight for La Liga, before securing an 11th European Cup against Atletico Madrid in Milan on Saturday.

Penalties were required to make Zidane the seventh man to win the Champions League as a player and coach, with Deschamps delighted for his fellow 1998 World Cup winner.

Deschamps said: "He was appointed as the head coach of Real Madrid. Even if they were not at rock bottom when he took over, he managed to become European champion and I am happy for him.

"It is something amazing for the club, his players and himself. He has been very successful and he has been quickly rewarded for what he has done. 

"Winning the Champions League means a lot today."

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King backs Wales to 'do a Leicester' at Euro 2016

Leicester City midfielder Andy King says his stunning Premier League triumph at club level gives him belief that Wales can spring a similar upset to win Euro 2016.

Claudio Ranieri's Foxes upset odds as high as 5,000/1 to secure Leicester's first top-flight title and turn English football on its head.

Wales will contest their first major international tournament since 1958 and, despite the presence of stars such as Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey, are not expected to trouble Europe's elite.

But Greece were shock winners of the European Championship in 2004 and King sees no reason why Chris Coleman's side cannot replicate those feats.

"The whole Leicester thing has given everyone belief," King said.

"You do not have to be France or Spain to win the Euros, because you have not got to be Man City or Man United to win the Premier League.

"It has given everyone a boost. Wales' odds are about 80-1 versus 5,000-1, so why not? You know which one you would rather back.

"You have got to win up to seven games compared to 38.

"We have a good squad of players and probably have the best player in the tournament in my opinion, and probably many people's opinion, so why can't we can't we go and win that as well?"

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King backs Wales to 'do a Leicester' at Euro 2016

Leicester City midfielder Andy King says his stunning Premier League triumph at club level gives him belief that Wales can spring a similar upset to win Euro 2016.

Claudio Ranieri's Foxes upset odds as high as 5,000/1 to secure Leicester's first top-flight title and turn English football on its head.

Wales will contest their first major international tournament since 1958 and, despite the presence of stars such as Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey, are not expected to trouble Europe's elite.

But Greece were shock winners of the European Championship in 2004 and King sees no reason why Chris Coleman's side cannot replicate those feats.

"The whole Leicester thing has given everyone belief," King said.

"You do not have to be France or Spain to win the Euros, because you have not got to be Man City or Man United to win the Premier League.

"It has given everyone a boost. Wales' odds are about 80-1 versus 5,000-1, so why not? You know which one you would rather back.

"You have got to win up to seven games compared to 38.

"We have a good squad of players and probably have the best player in the tournament in my opinion, and probably many people's opinion, so why can't we can't we go and win that as well?"

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Panama 0 Brazil 2: Jonas breaks goalscoring drought, Gabriel nets on debut

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Brazil put in a dominant performance on Sunday as they secured a 2-0 win over Panama in their pre-Copa America Centenario warm-up game.

Jonas, called up as an injury replacement for Ricardo Oliveira, gave Brazil the lead inside two minutes at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Denver. 

It was the Benfica striker's first international goal since November 2011, when he scored a double in Brazil's 2-0 friendly win over Egypt. 

Debutant Gabriel doubled Brazil's lead in the second half to round out the win in their final friendly before facing Ecuador in their first Copa America group-stage match. 

Brazil also face Haiti and Peru in Group B, while Panama must tackle Argentina, Chile and Bolivia in Group D of the special-edition tournament held in the United States. 

Brazil got off to a flying start and took the lead just under 120 seconds into the contest, after Jonas finished off a great passing move from the South American side.  

Panama managed to calm themselves down after the early goal and it was not until the 21st minute when Brazil had their next shot.

Dani Alves had a long-range free-kick saved by Panama goalkeeper Jaime Penedo, before Willian had a shot from inside the area blocked by Felipe Baloy.

Renato Augusto should have put Brazil 2-0 up in the 32nd minute but his header from an Alves cross was directed just wide. 

Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho had two chances in the space of a few minutes but hit both strikes wide as Brazil went into the half-time break with just a one-goal advantage. 

Coutinho turned provider in the second half for the recently introduced Hulk, but his close-range header was spectacularly kept out by the in-form Penedo. 

Brazil eventually doubled their advantage in the 73rd minute when Gabriel scored on his international debut, the Santos winger slotting the ball into the right-hand corner of the goal. 

Dunga also handed a Brazil debut to Rodrigo Caio with 10 minutes remaining as they ran out the closing stages of the game, while another debutant - Douglas Santos - played the 90 minutes.

Second-half substitute Kaka, who was called up as an injury replacement for Douglas Costa, was denied by Penedo in the 84th minute with a brilliant diving save.

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Pulido rescued by Mexican authorities

Kidnapped Mexico international Alan Pulido has been rescued, authorities confirmed on Monday. 

The Olympiacos forward was reportedly taken by a group of attackers after leaving a party in Ciudad Victoria in the early hours of Sunday morning. 

Mexican federal and state forces joined together to locate Pulido's whereabouts, with the 25-year-old found less than 24 hours after he was reported missing. 

The Tamaulipas Coordination Group - who organised the rescue - released a statement which read:  "A joint operation of federal and state forces shortly before midnight on Sunday May 29 managed to rescue professional footballer Alan Pulido safe and sound.

"He was deprived of his freedom on Saturday night May 28 in the capital city. Pulido is presently under a medical evaluation and more complete information will be given later.

"Governor Egidio Torre Cantu, who was attentive to this event, visited the player to make sure he was OK and congratulated federal and state forces for the successful operation."

Pulido has won six caps for Mexico since making his debut in 2014, scoring four goals.

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Robben and Ribery in line for Bayern renewals

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has suggested both Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery will be offered contract renewals at some stage in the coming months.

Both wingers' contracts are due to expire in June 2017, but Bayern are yet to open talks over new deals with the experienced attackers.

Nevertheless, Rummenigge has made it clear the Bundesliga champions are keen to hold on to both Robben and Ribery beyond the expiration of their existing deals.

"I do not rule out that both will sign renewals with Bayern," Rummenigge told Kicker. "We all know how incredibly important they are, both on and off the pitch.

"But both will have to be patient for a bit. It is only normal to wait a bit longer with players who are older than 30."

Robben, 32, joined Bayern from Real Madrid in August 2009. The 33-year-old Ribery, meanwhile, has been with club since signing from Marseille in June 2007.

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Robben and Ribery in line for Bayern renewals

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has suggested both Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery will be offered contract renewals at some stage in the coming months.

Both wingers' contracts are due to expire in June 2017, but Bayern are yet to open talks over new deals with the experienced attackers.

Nevertheless, Rummenigge has made it clear the Bundesliga champions are keen to hold on to both Robben and Ribery beyond the expiration of their existing deals.

"I do not rule out that both will sign renewals with Bayern," Rummenigge told Kicker. "We all know how incredibly important they are, both on and off the pitch.

"But both will have to be patient for a bit. It is only normal to wait a bit longer with players who are older than 30."

Robben, 32, joined Bayern from Real Madrid in August 2009. The 33-year-old Ribery, meanwhile, has been with club since signing from Marseille in June 2007.

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Alaves secure La Liga promotion

Manu Garcia and Raul Garcia scored the goals as Alaves beat Numancia 2-0 to secure promotion from Spain's Segunda Division.

The Basque club will play La Liga football for the first time in 10 years next season.

Alaves were two goals to the good at half-time to put the Estadio de Mendizorroza in party mood.

Leganes are well placed to join Alaves in the top flight next season, in second place with one match to play, but Gimnastic Tarragona are lurking just a point behind.

Alaves could have a say in who joins them in promotion, as they travel to Gimnastic on the final day, while Leganes head to Mirandes.

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Colombia 3 Haiti 1: Cuadrado helps Pekerman's side to win

Colombia will carry winning form into the Copa America Centenario after a 3-1 victory over Haiti in a friendly on Sunday.

Juan Cuadrado and substitute Roger Martinez struck in the second half at Marlins Park in Miami in what was the only lead-up friendly ahead of the tournament for Jose Pekerman's men.

Dayro Moreno had put Colombia ahead before Wilde-Donald Guerrier levelled for Haiti, who had Max Hilaire sent off before the break.

Pekerman's men capitalised through Cuadrado and Martinez to seal a third straight win heading into their Copa opener against the United States on Friday.

Haiti have won just one of their past six matches and face Peru, Brazil and Ecuador in Group B at the Copa.

Cuadrado threatened early for Colombia, but saw his long-range strike deflected and well saved by Johnny Placide.

Colombia's early pressure would lead to the 13th-minute opener.

Sebastian Perez mis-kicked an effort towards goal, but Dayro Moreno was on hand to find the net on the turn to make it 1-0.

As Haiti chased an equaliser, Colombia threatened as Perez went close and Marlos Moreno sent a shot straight at Placide on the counter-attack on the half-hour mark.

However, poor set-piece marking would lead to an equaliser 10 minutes before half-time.

Wisla Krakow's Guerrier lost his marker at a corner before heading in a Jeff Louis cross for the leveller.

Haiti's chances of a result were dealt a blow six minutes prior to the break, with Hilaire given a second yellow card for a rash challenge on Daniel Torres.

Colombia had to wait until the second half to take advantage of their numerical advantage through Cuadrado.

The Chelsea-owned attacker was the beneficiary of a lightning counter, Dayro Moreno feeding Cuadrado through down the right before he chipped the onrushing Placide from an angle.

Guerrier had a chance to respond immediately but was denied by David Ospina in a one-on-one, with the Arsenal goalkeeper also called into action just after the hour-mark.

After containing Haiti through that period, Colombia made it 3-1 thanks to Martinez, who replaced Carlos Bacca at half-time.

A fine team move saw Marlos Moreno put Guillermo Celis in down the right and he squared for Martinez to tap in the sealer.

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Colombia 3 Haiti 1: Cuadrado helps Pekerman's side to win

Colombia will carry winning form into the Copa America Centenario after a 3-1 victory over Haiti in a friendly on Sunday.

Juan Cuadrado and substitute Roger Martinez struck in the second half at Marlins Park in Miami in what was the only lead-up friendly ahead of the tournament for Jose Pekerman's men.

Dayro Moreno had put Colombia ahead before Wilde-Donald Guerrier levelled for Haiti, who had Max Hilaire sent off before the break.

Pekerman's men capitalised through Cuadrado and Martinez to seal a third straight win heading into their Copa opener against the United States on Friday.

Haiti have won just one of their past six matches and face Peru, Brazil and Ecuador in Group B at the Copa.

Cuadrado threatened early for Colombia, but saw his long-range strike deflected and well saved by Johnny Placide.

Colombia's early pressure would lead to the 13th-minute opener.

Sebastian Perez mis-kicked an effort towards goal, but Dayro Moreno was on hand to find the net on the turn to make it 1-0.

As Haiti chased an equaliser, Colombia threatened as Perez went close and Marlos Moreno sent a shot straight at Placide on the counter-attack on the half-hour mark.

However, poor set-piece marking would lead to an equaliser 10 minutes before half-time.

Wisla Krakow's Guerrier lost his marker at a corner before heading in a Jeff Louis cross for the leveller.

Haiti's chances of a result were dealt a blow six minutes prior to the break, with Hilaire given a second yellow card for a rash challenge on Daniel Torres.

Colombia had to wait until the second half to take advantage of their numerical advantage through Cuadrado.

The Chelsea-owned attacker was the beneficiary of a lightning counter, Dayro Moreno feeding Cuadrado through down the right before he chipped the onrushing Placide from an angle.

Guerrier had a chance to respond immediately but was denied by David Ospina in a one-on-one, with the Arsenal goalkeeper also called into action just after the hour-mark.

After containing Haiti through that period, Colombia made it 3-1 thanks to Martinez, who replaced Carlos Bacca at half-time.

A fine team move saw Marlos Moreno put Guillermo Celis in down the right and he squared for Martinez to tap in the sealer.

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Italy 1 Scotland 0: Pelle halts winless run

Italy triumphed 1-0 over Scotland on Sunday, but will feel the margin should have been greater after dominating possession and chances.

Graziano Pelle struck in the second half to halt Italy's four-match winless run with a 1-0 victory over Scotland on Sunday, giving the Azzurri's Euro 2016 preparations a lift.

Antonio Conte's men had not won since their qualifying campaign drew to a close, with defeats to Belgium and Germany, either side of draws with Romania and Spain, depriving them of the chance to build any momentum.

The Euro 2012 runners-up never looked like losing in Malta, but their inability to convert promising opportunities during the first half was a concern.

However, Southampton striker Pelle produced an accomplished finish 12 minutes into the second half to clinch a welcome victory for Italy, who face Finland in their last pre-tournament friendly and will name their final 23-man Euro 2016 squad this week.

Scotland failed to register a single shot on target during the 90 minutes - Matt Ritchie's late strike wide their only effort of any description - and will hope for an improved performance when they provide the opposition for the last warm-up fixture of tournament hosts France.

Italy probed the Scottish defence with little reward during the first half, Emanuele Giaccherini looking particularly dangerous.

David Marshall parried a powerful Antonio Candreva free-kick into the Sunderland attacker's path early on, but the goalkeeper was equal to Giaccherini's effort on the rebound and Pelle was unable to send in a third attempt.

Candreva and Giaccherini combined again for Italy's next chance, the Lazio winger cutting back only for the eventual effort to be lifted harmlessly over the crossbar from the centre of the box.

Italy continued to control possession but Giaccherini was again guilty of squandering a golden opportunity when he prodded wide after taking down a long Daniele De Rossi ball over the top.

Alessandro Florenzi then sent an optimistic effort sailing wide of the left-hand post, and Eder felt he should have been awarded a penalty when he was outmuscled by the Scottish defence just before the break.

Scotland had been impotent in the first half and striker Ross McCormack was taken off during the interval after making just six touches in the opening 45 minutes.

Giaccherini could count himself unlucky when he was wrongly called offside five minutes into the second half, but Pelle soon put Italy in front.

Taking the ball off the feet of Eder at the edge of the penalty area, Pelle guided a powerful effort beyond a diving Marshall.

Substitutions interrupted the flow of Italy's play but Scotland, who saw Ritchie fire wide with 12 minutes to play, continued to prove unable to test Gianluigi Buffon - the goalkeeper perhaps left feeling he was worked harder during the pre-game warm up than during the match itself.

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Chelsea StarBoy Lewis Baker wins Toulon Tournament’s Golden Boot

The midfielder finished the competition with four goals after finding the net in Sunday's final victory over France,while fellow scorer Loftus-Cheek took second place Chelsea midfielder Lewis Baker won the Toulon Tournament’s Golden Boot as England beat France in Sunday’s final.

Baker opened the scoring after just nine minutes before his Chelsea team-mate Ruben Loftus-Cheek added a second shortly before half-time.

Abdou Diallo netted a late goal for France but Gareth Southgate’s men were able to hold out for the victory.

Baker finished the tournament with four goals, one clear of Loftus-Cheek and two ahead of France striker Sehrou Guirassy.

@lew_baker collects the #Toulon2016top scorer award.pic.twitter.com/WZGkfFOeIe
— England (@England)29 May 2016

Baker is the first Englishman to finish as the Toulon Tournament’s top goalscorer since Emile Heskey in 1998.

Also among the tournament’s previous Golden Boot winners are Thierry Henry, Nuno Gomes, Alan Shearer, Rui Costa, Djibril Cisse and Kevin Gameiro.

Baker returns to Chelsea this summer having just spent the season on loan in the Eredivisie with Vitesse.

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England beat France to clinch Toulon glory

Gareth Southgate's Young Lions emerged victorious in France as Lewis Baker and Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek both scored in the showpiece on Sunday afternoon.

England Under-21's were crowned Toulon Tournament champions on Sunday as the Three Lions defeated France 2-1.

The Young Lions fielded a strong team featuring the likes of Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse, Chelsea youngster Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Norwich's Nathan Redmond.

Gareth Southgate's side enjoyed a near-perfect start as Lewis Baker scored with a sublime header early on, following an excellent Ward-Prowse through ball.

Baker's goal, his fourth in the tournament, was followed swiftly by Loftus-Cheek's excellent finish to double England's lead before half-time.

@lew_baker collects the#Toulon2016top scorer award.pic.twitter.com/WZGkfFOeIe

— England (@England)May 29, 2016.

@rubey_lcheek collects the player of the tournament award for#Toulon2016pic.twitter.com/l8s9aSi6CR
— England (@England)May 29, 2016.

The Blues midfielder lofted the ball over the goalkeeper following an excellent run, and it was then announced that Loftus-Cheek had won the award for the best player at the tournament.

Abode Diallo turned home to give France hope of a remarkable comeback in the 78th minute but they were unable to capitalise on their late momentum, leaving England to lift the trophy in Toulon.

England beat Portugal, Guinea, Paraguay and Japan en route to the final, and have emerged victorious for the first time since 1994.

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Joseph Yobo conferred with chieftaincy title in Ogoniland

The former Super Eagles’ skipper has been made a chief in his home town following his exploits for the country.

Former Nigeria defender Joseph Yobo has been conferred with a chieftaincy title in Ogoniland.

The honour was bestowed on him a day after he was given a grand exit from professional football by a stellar collection of football stars like Samuel Eto’o,Austin Okocha, Sulley Muntari, Stephen Appiah, Lomana Lualua and Laryea Kingston during his testimonial in Port Harcourt.

Yobo was conferred with the title of Mene Aborlo 1 of Ogoniland by King GNK Gininwa, with his wife Adaeze given the Waamene Aborlo 1 of Ogoni land.

"Honored to be conferred the title Mene Aborlo 1 of Ogoniland by my King, HRH GNK Gininwa and people#chiefyobo," he tweeted.

Honored to be conferred the title Mene Aborlo 1 of Ogoniland by my King, HRH GNK Gininwa and people#chiefyobopic.twitter.com/WVQwhnenJQ

— Joseph Yobo (@jyobo234)May 29, 2016.

The former Nigeria international defender made his Super Eagles debut against Zambia in a 2002 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on 24 March, 2001 in Chingola, Zambia.

He went on to amass 101 international caps, scoring seven goals in a career that spanned 13 years where he featured at three Fifa World Cups and six Afcon tournaments, leading Nigeria to victory in his last outing in South Africa.

He posted on Instagram:

Mene Aborlo 1 and Waamene Aborlo 1 of Ogoniland#honored #chiefyobo #royalty

A photo posted by Joseph Yobo (@jyobo234) on May 28, 2016 at 11:16pm PDT

Aborlo 1 and Waamene Aborlo 1 of Ogoniland

A photo posted by Joseph Yobo (@jyobo234) onMay 28, 2016 at 10:41pm PDT

Mene Aborlo 1 and Waamene Aborlo 1 of Ogoniland#honored #chiefyobo #royalty

A photo posted by Joseph Yobo (@jyobo234) onMay 28, 2016 at 11:12pm PDT

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Low concerned by Germany's defensive performance

Germany coach Joachim Low has voiced his concerns with his side's defensive showing in Sunday's 3-1 friendly defeat at the hands of Slovakia.

Mario Gomez handed the world champions an early lead from the penalty spot after 13 minutes.

However, goals from Marek Hamsik, Michal Duris and Juraj Kucka ensured victory for Slovakia as Germany failed to keep a clean sheet for the eighth consecutive game.

Low saw reasons for optimism in possession, but was not impressed with Germany's performance at the back.

"I am pleased with our attacking performance. We had a few nice attacks and our movement was quite good," Low said at a news conference.

"But I have to be honest and admit we had problems defensively.

"It might have had something to do with the presence of both Mario Gotze and Julian Draxler, who are both number 10s That's why Slovakia got too much space."

Low handed a number of youngsters the chance to earn a spot in Germany's final squad for Euro 2016, with Julian Brandt, Joshua Kimmich, Julian Weigl and Bernd Leno all winning their first caps.

"We cannot expect too much from the younger players in a game like this," he added.

"But Julian Brandt, Joshua Kimmich, Julian Weigl and Bernd Leno all have a lot of quality and have a bright future ahead of them."

Germany still have a number of injury worries ahead of the tournament in France and Low is keen to get some more insight on the availability of his three doubtful players.

"The most important thing for us is that everybody is healthy," he continued.

"We have a meeting scheduled with the medical staff to see how long Bastian Schweinsteiger, Mats Hummels and Marco Reus will still be unavailable for."

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Low concerned by Germany's defensive performance

Germany coach Joachim Low has voiced his concerns with his side's defensive showing in Sunday's 3-1 friendly defeat at the hands of Slovakia.

Mario Gomez handed the world champions an early lead from the penalty spot after 13 minutes.

However, goals from Marek Hamsik, Michal Duris and Juraj Kucka ensured victory for Slovakia as Germany failed to keep a clean sheet for the eighth consecutive game.

Low saw reasons for optimism in possession, but was not impressed with Germany's performance at the back.

"I am pleased with our attacking performance. We had a few nice attacks and our movement was quite good," Low said at a news conference.

"But I have to be honest and admit we had problems defensively.

"It might have had something to do with the presence of both Mario Gotze and Julian Draxler, who are both number 10s That's why Slovakia got too much space."

Low handed a number of youngsters the chance to earn a spot in Germany's final squad for Euro 2016, with Julian Brandt, Joshua Kimmich, Julian Weigl and Bernd Leno all winning their first caps.

"We cannot expect too much from the younger players in a game like this," he added.

"But Julian Brandt, Joshua Kimmich, Julian Weigl and Bernd Leno all have a lot of quality and have a bright future ahead of them."

Germany still have a number of injury worries ahead of the tournament in France and Low is keen to get some more insight on the availability of his three doubtful players.

"The most important thing for us is that everybody is healthy," he continued.

"We have a meeting scheduled with the medical staff to see how long Bastian Schweinsteiger, Mats Hummels and Marco Reus will still be unavailable for."

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Nolito dreaming of Euro 2016 after Spain double

Nolito is dreaming of playing for Spain at Euro 2016 after he scored his first international goals in a 3-1 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina in Switzerland.

The Celta Vigo forward, 29, had not scored in his first six caps, but had a double within the first 18 minutes of his seventh appearance on Sunday.

Emir Spahic got a goal back for Bosnia before being sent off and Chelsea forward Pedro sealed the victory in stoppage-time.

Head coach Vicente del Bosque now has to cut a final two members of his provisional squad for the Euros as Spain look to retain their continental crown in France and Nolito hopes he has done enough in his 60-minute appearance to book a seat on the plane.

"It is clear that the whole world knows the level at the Spanish national team is very high, but you can always dream. I am ready if the coach needs me," Nolito told reporters, before reflecting on his man-of-the-match performance.

"I always try to give my all for Spain, just like I do at Celta.

"I got another chance and could have scored a hat-trick, but I am happy with the win and with my two goals. I want to keep going on the same path."

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Bellerin in line to replace Carvajal - Del Bosque

Vicente del Bosque has confirmed Hector Bellerin will replace Dani Carvajal in the Spain squad for Euro 2016 if the Real Madrid defender is forced to withdraw due to injury.

Carvajal picked up a muscle problem in Madrid's Champions League final win over Atletico Madrid on Saturday and is doubtful for the tournament in France.

Bellerin, meanwhile, made his Spain debut in Sunday's 3-1 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina and will remain with the squad until there is clarity about Carvajal's fitness.

"It all depends on what the medical staff say about Carvajal's fitness," Del Bosque said at a news conference.

"Bellerin will stay with the squad until we know the extent of Carvajal's injury.

"I also considered [Villarreal defender] Mario [Gaspar], but we have to remain consistent and bear in mind this training camp was in order to prepare for the Euros. That's why Bellerin will stay with the squad."

Del Bosque fielded a young team against Bosnia-Herzegovina as he was still without the Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and some Barcelona players, but he was nonetheless pleased with his side's display as they prepare to try and retain their crown.

"We felt comfortable in the first and were in control with Bruno Soriano and Cesc Fabregas," he added.

"Even though we had a man more following their red card, we were less in control after the break. We did not take advantage of the fact they were down to 10 men.

"I am very happy with the youngsters, though. They will all return to Spain on Monday, except Bellerin. I then have 48 hours left to announce the final squad."

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Deschamps will not consider Sakho recall For Euro

France coach Didier Deschamps insists he has not looked into the possibility of recalling Mamadou Sakho following the expiry of his 30-day suspension over an anti-doping violation.

Sakho was handed the ban by UEFA on April 28 after it emerged he had failed a drugs test following his club's Europa League clash with Manchester United in March.

The suspension, which was subsequently extended by FIFA to include matches around the world, cost Sakho a place in France's Euro 2016 squad, as well as the chance to play in Liverpool's final eight games of the season, which included the Europa League semi-finals and final.

Despite reports on Saturday that Sakho's initial ban would not be extended, Omnisport understands that UEFA's case against the 26-year-old has not yet been dropped, with a final decision expected to be made in the coming days.

Deschamps has faced a defensive selection headache in the build-up to Euro 2016, with Raphael Varane and Jeremy Mathieu both missing out through injury.

Adil Rami and Samuel Umtiti have been called in to fill the gaps in France's 23-man squad but, when asked whether a potential Sakho return was on his radar, Deschamps said: "Seriously? No. Or I would have no respect for the players I have already selected.

"When I made my selection there was no evidence that the outcome would be positive [for Sakho], even if it requires confirmation."

France begin their Euros campaign against Romania in Paris on June 10.

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Germany 1 Slovakia 3: World champions continue to struggle

Germany's worrying form ahead of Euro 2016 continued as they fell to a shock 3-1 defeat at the hands of Slovakia in Augsburg on Sunday.

Mario Gomez's penalty put the home team in front after 13 minutes, but a stunning strike from Marek Hamsik and a Michal Duris header turned the game on its head before the break.

After stormy weather had delayed the start of the second half, substitute Marc-Andre ter Stegen's dreadful mistake in wet conditions allowed Juraj Kucka to make it three and Germany could not find a way back into the match.

Joachim Low gave first caps to Bernd Leno and Joshua Kimmich, as well as substitutes Julian Weigl and Julian Brandt, but the head coach has major problems to solve with no more matches to play before he cuts his squad down from 27 to a final 23.

Germany, winners of the World Cup two years ago, have now lost four of their last six games and failed to keep a clean sheet for eight successive matches with the Euros under two weeks away.

They only have one more warm-up match against Hungary to play before the competition, while in-form Slovakia are unbeaten in seven as they prepare to face Northern Ireland in their last pre-tournament clash.

Jerome Boateng almost marked his first Germany appearance of 2016 with an early goal when his bouncing effort was tipped over the bar by Matus Kozacik.

But the hosts did not have to wait long to break the deadlock, with Mario Gotze drawing a foul from Kucka in the box and Gomez sending Kozacik the wrong way to make it two strikes in as many caps having previously gone almost four years without an international goal.

The world champions should have added to their lead, Leroy Sane seeing his effort from a promising opening saved by Kozacik's legs and Julian Draxler volleying over.

Slovakia levelled against the run of play in emphatic fashion four minutes before half-time when Hamsik gathered Ondrej Duda's pass and unleashed a blistering finish into the top corner from well outside the box, giving the debutant Leno no chance.

Astonishingly, the visitors then went ahead 185 seconds after levelling as Duris rose to powerfully head Vladimir Weiss' corner over Leno, who could not react quickly enough.

Low had made three changes at the interval and one of his replacements, Ter Stegen, had a moment to forget after 52 minutes when he somehow allowed Kucka's volley from Patrik Hrosovsky's corner to squirm through his legs.

Draxler was just off-target with a long-range drive for Germany, while Ter Stegen had to get out quickly to deny Hamsik. 

After causing him problems for Slovakia's third goal, the wet surface helped the Barcelona goalkeeper on this occasion as it slowed the Napoli star down while he prepared to shoot.

The expected rally from Germany did not arrive in the closing stages, with Gotze firing wide in their best opening as Low's side failed to muster an attempt on target in the second half.

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Mexico and Olympiacos footballer Alan Pulido kidnapped

Mexican international Alan Pulido was kidnapped on Sunday in the northern border state of Tamaulipas, a state official said.

Pulido is a striker for Greek side Olympiacos was part of Mexico's 2014 World Cup team although he wasn't called up for the Copa America tournament that starts this coming week.

The official said the 25-year-old player was kidnapped after leaving a party near his hometown of Ciudad Victoria, the capital of a state that has been plagued by organised crime. 

According to local media reports, Pulido left the party with his girlfriend at around 11.30pm local time.

Several trucks are then said to have surrounded the footballer's car before six masked gunmen released his girlfriend and took him away by force.

Pulido debuted and played several seasons with the club Tigres of Monterrey, whose Twitter account expressed solidarity with the player's family "in the difficult situation they are experiencing."

Pulido left Tigres in 2014 to play in Europe, though he has been in a dispute with the Mexican club about whether his contract there continues to be valid. National team coach Carlos Osorio recently said Pulido has the quality to be on the squad, but was left off due to the legal dispute.

In the most recent season, he scored five times in eight appearances with Olympiacos.

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Ben Arfa wants to match Messi, Ronaldo

Nice attacker Hatem Ben Arfa is confident he has what it takes to reach the same level as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ben Arfa enjoyed an impressive 2015-16 campaign, leading Nice to fourth place in the Ligue 1 table with 17 goals in 34 games.

It was not enough to earn him a berth in the France squad for Euro 2016 on home soil, but that disappointment has not stopped the former Lyon, Marseille and Newcastle man from setting some lofty targets.

"I am far away from reaching the level of Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but I still have a number of years to catch them. That is my goal," the 29-year-old told Le Parisien.

"I am not at my best just yet. Everything is possible for me. I feel like I am 24 or 25. I am at an age where I have matured. I have developed and I am ready to take the next step.

"I have found a new strength. I have found peace and tranquillity. I am still getting better and working hard to get there. I am convinced that I will get there.

"There are a lot of similarities between Messi and me, the way we dribble and look out there on the pitch. But we each have our own game.

"I am fully focused on football right now. I had a different focus before. This is all part of my development."

Barcelona and Lyon among the clubs rumoured to interested in signing Ben Arfa on a free transfer when his contract with Nice expires at the end of June.

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Barnsley 3 Millwall 1: Hammill scorcher helps seal Championship return

Barnsley secured a return to the Championship with a 3-1 win over Millwall in Sunday's League One play-off final.

The Yorkshire side, bottom of the league table in December, capped a remarkable turnaround in 2016 with a deserved win at Wembley that seals their place back in the second tier of English football.

Barnsley, who only reached the play-offs by virtue of a better goal difference than Scunthorpe United, made an ideal start as they took the lead with just two minutes played thanks to on-loan Manchester United striker Ashley Fletcher's fine finish.

Caretaker boss Paul Heckingbottom, who steered his side to victory in the Football League Trophy final at Wembley last month, led the celebrations when Barnsley doubled their lead through Adam Hammill's sumptuous strike from 25 yards out.

Millwall snatched a lifeline before half-time when Mark Beevers showed great strength to hold off a challenge before turning to sweep the ball high into the net, but they failed to create any sustained pressure in the second half.

And Barnsley made sure of their victory 16 minutes from time, when Lloyd Isgrove leaped highest to power home a header from Hammill's corner, allowing their travelling fans to celebrate the most unlikely of promotion stories.

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Isco: I'll stay if Real Madrid want me

Real Madrid midfielder Isco says he wants to stay at the club following their dramatic Champions League final victory over Atletico Madrid on Saturday.

Isco impressed as a substitute in a tense final at San Siro, which Madrid eventually won on penalties after goals from Sergio Ramos and Yannick Carrasco ensured the match finished 1-1 after extra-time.

The Spain international fell out of favour under former coach Rafael Benitez and came close to leaving Santiago Bernabeu in the mid-season transfer window, but he has enjoyed a more sustained first-team role since Zinedine Zidane took charge in January.

And the former Malaga man says he is keen to enjoy more success in the capital as long as the club want him to stay.

"I am very proud of my team. We had a difficult season, but we have never given up, so we deserve it," he said after the match.

"I hope to stay. If the club wants me here, I will stay. I am very happy here and I hope to keep winning trophies for this club. Zidane has done an amazing job with us.

"It is in our DNA to fight to the very last minute. We showed that in La Liga and right now in the Champions League. We have played against a very competitive opponent who made things very difficult, but thank God we can bring the trophy to the Bernabeu."

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Bayern defend Boateng after politician's insult

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has hit out at Alternative fur Deutschland (AfD) politician Alexander Gauland following the latter's controversial comments toward Jerome Boateng.

The deputy leader of the anti-immigration party stated at the weekend that "people like Boateng as a footballer, but wouldn't want to live next to someone like him" in an apparent reference to the Bayern defender's foreign roots.

Gauland's remarks sparked controversy in Germany and Rummenigge has now taken aim at the right-wing politician.

"Discrimination of any kind in sport and this society deserves the red card," Rummenigge said in a statement on the official Bayern website.

"Jerome Boateng is a wonderful human being and an example to follow as a professional football player at this club.

"We are proud that he also plays for the German national team."

The 27-year-old Boateng was born in Berlin and has won 57 caps for Germany, playing a key role in their successful 2014 World Cup campaign.

The defender has a Ghanaian father, with his brother Kevin-Prince Boateng having represented the African country at international level.

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Martial set to miss France friendly through injury

Anthony Martial is set to miss France's Euro 2016 warm-up against Cameroon on Monday with a thigh injury.

The Manchester United striker has been included in the hosts' final 23-man squad and, while his involvement in the tournament is not thought to be in doubt, coach Didier Deschamps expects to be without him in Nantes.

"Martial has pain in his thigh," said Deschamps. "He finished the season late. I will not take any risks tomorrow and it is likely that he will not participate in the match.

"There is no doubt about Martial's participation in the Euros. His thigh problem is muscular fatigue."

Deschamps also confirmed that Lassana Diarra, who was hit with a EUR10million fine following a contract dispute on Sunday, would feature in France's penultimate friendly.

France kick off their Euros campaign against Romania at Stade de France on June 10.

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