NEWS IN BRIEF

Messi named World Player of Year

Barcelona star Lionel Messi has been named FIFA World Player of the Year 2009.

In a glittering ceremony in Zurich, which was screened live to millions around the world, the Argentine international striker received his new title from deed poll and will now be known as WPOTY09 for short.

The prize included a free tattoo session and the Barca star promptly jumped into the hot seat had the letters inked across his back.

The striker had already secured the prestigious Ballon 'd Or - a perfume by David and Victoria Beckham.

Rival Cristiano Ronaldo vowed to gain his revenge next year and FIFA are investigating rumours that a man has been seen in Madrid answering to the name WPOTY10.


City deny conspiracy theories

Manchester City have dismissed the "conspiracy theories" surrounding the departure of Mark Hughes as Blues manager.

Chief executive Garry Cook said such notions were entirely fictious and were made up by the "anti-City media and pedaled by journalists with sinister and scandalous motives".


* Elements of this blog may not be entirely accurate