Football: Sharpe laid low by viral meningitis

LEE SHARPE, the Manchester United winger, has viral meningitis and is expected to be out of action until late October or early November.

The United doctor, Francis McHugh, said: 'There are two types of meningitis, viral and bacterial. Lee has the viral version, which is generally known as benign.

'There is no treatment for this illness except complete rest. There is no reason why he shouldn't recover to play as well as he ever has.'

Patrik Andersson, the Malmo midfield player, is wanted by United after Paul Ince was added to the Old Trafford injury list at the weekend. Ferguson watched the 20-year-old against IFK Gothenburg on Sunday as midfield man Ince joined Bryan Robson on the treatment table with rib and hip trouble.

Aston Villa are giving a trial to the Dutch international striker, Hans Gilhaus, and the German central defender, Christian Beeck.

Gilhaus, 28, is registered with Aberdeen having moved to Scotland from PSV Eindhoven almost three years ago for pounds 650,000. Gilhaus grabbed two goals in his first trial match with Villa who beat Wolverhampton 3-0 in a Pontins Central League game at Walsall last night.

The third Villa goal came from the former West Ham United and Celtic forward, Frank McAvennie, who is also on trial at Villa Park.

Pat Nevin, Everton's Scotland winger, has turned down a move to the Turkish club, Galatasaray. He is now likely to reopen talks with Tranmere Rovers.