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General Sports News

Ronaldo pride at Real deal

Author: Rose Young
Date: 12/06/2009

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed his pride at his soon-to-be completed 'historic' 80million transfer from Manchester United to Real Madrid.

The Portuguese star is set to undergo a medical and discuss personal terms before completing his world record switch to Spain.

However, Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas has ruled out the possibility of following Ronaldo and joining Real Madrid in a big-money deal.

Fabregas, who began his career at Real's bitter rivals Barcelona, insists he has no plans to leave the Gunners and return to Spain.

Meanwhile, Arsenal goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski has pledged his future to the club after agreeing terms on a new long-term contract.

The 24-year-old shot-stopper made 18 first-team appearances for the Gunners last season - his second with the club - and is highly rated by manager Arsene Wenger.

Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan is 'disappointed and frustrated' that Roberto Martinez has not yet been confirmed as his club's new manager.

The Latics called a press conference on Thursday where they were expecting to unveil Martinez in the JJB Stadium hot-seat.

However, despite a week of negotiations with the Spanish coach's current club, Swansea City, Martinez could not be unveiled as the latest Premier League manager.

The Swans are holding out for more compensation as Martinez is keen to bring two members of his backroom staff to Wigan.

In rugby union, prop Phil Vickery will skipper the British and Irish Lions in Saturday's warm-up encounter against Western Province.

The Wasps and England prop has been handed the armband in the absence of Paul O'Connell and Brian O'Driscoll.

Fellow countrymen Riki Flutey, Ugo Monye, Joe Worsley, Andrew Sheridan and Harry Ellis will also all start.

Flutey will join Wales flanker Martyn Williams in attempting to stake a late claim for a place in the Test side, with both players returning from injury.

Meanwhile, director of rugby Dean Ryan has left Gloucester by mutual consent.

The former England international won two trophies during seven years at Kingsholm but will be replaced in the coaching hot-seat next season by assistant Bryan Redpath.

In cricket, captain Paul Collingwood has admitted England need to follow South Africa's example if they are to bounce back from defeat and win the ICC World Twenty20.

England were soundly beaten by seven wickets by online betting favourites South Africa in their first Super Eight match after being bowled out for just 111.

Meanwhile, Cricket Australia have withdrawn their offer of a central contract to all-rounder Andrew Symonds.

The 34-year-old was sent home in disgrace on the eve of the ICC World Twenty20 following a breach of team discipline.

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