The Sport Matrix: Wednesday 17 July 2013

Angry Rooney on brink at United after Moyes ‘snub’

The Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was last night considering submitting another transfer request after being angered by comments made by manager David Moyes.

The Scot implied that Rooney would be useful to United only as back-up in case of injury to Robin van Persie. The England international, linked with a move away all summer, fears he may have to prove himself all over again next season if he remains at the club. MORE

Froome accuses rival after close call

Race leader Chris Froome and rival Alberto Contador came close yesterday to a major crash that might have cost them both dear in the Tour de France. Froome accused the Spaniard of riding “too riskily” on the notoriously dangerous descent into Gap. MORE

Woods confident of ending drought

Tiger Woods remains upbeat about his chances of victory at this weekend’s Open. “Even though I have not won a major in five years, I’ve had chances in a bunch of them,” the world No 1 said. “I just need to keep putting myself there and eventually I’ll get some.” MORE

Arthur reveals Australia split

Australia captain Michael Clarke labelled team-mate Shane Watson “a cancer on the team”, according to deposed head coach Mickey Arthur. The South African made the statement as part of a claim for unfair dismissal after his sacking last month. MORE

Mourinho sets up Far East auditions

Jose Mourinho is looking to use Chelsea’s tour of the Far East as an audition for midfield roles for the new season. “We have many more options than last year,” he said before today’s game against Singha All-Stars. “These are crucial positions for me. The competition is hard.” MORE

Dasalou backed to impress at Worlds

UK Athletics performance director Neil Black has expressed faith in James Dasalou to shine at next month’s World Championships after the 25-year-old was included in the GB squad. “[He can] make that final,” Black said. “And, if at all possible, win a medal.”

Mickelson in mood for first Open win

Phil Mickelson says his recent form, including last week’s Scottish Open title, gives him the chance of a debut Open win. “You need to play some great golf,” he said. “These last few months I’ve played well enough. But I do need some luck.” MORE

Prior: I heard noise when Haddin hit it

Matt Prior knew instantly Brad Haddin had nicked the final ball that won England last week’s first Test. “I knew he had hit it,” Prior said. “I heard the noise. For a keeper it can be the faintest nick but it changes the timing of when the ball hits your gloves.” page

Injury forces sad end to Fairy tale

An aggravated leg injury led to Snow Fairy being retired, bringing to an end the final chapter of one of the sport’s true fairy tales. The Cinderella mare suffered the injury during a routine gallop at Newmarket. “She owes us nothing,” trainer Ed Dunlop said. MORE

Chisora ready for Yankee revenge

Dereck Chisora has promised to avoid becoming the next Briton to suffer against an American when he meets Malik Scott this Saturday. “This has become about territory,” he said. “I’ll show how we do it to these Yankees.”

Opinion: Adam Gilchrist

Ashton Agar and the rest of the lower half of the Australia order showed that if you watch that ball closely and occupy the crease there will be runs on offer in this Ashes series. MORE