James O'Brien 
England head coach Thomas Tuchel recalled Trent Alexander‑Arnold for a Nations League camp, and the Liverpool right‑back repaid the faith with a spectacular 70‑yard run and a pinpoint cross that set up Anthony Gordon’s winner against the Czech Republic. The performance has sparked calls for Tuchel to give Alexander‑Arnold more trust in the national side.
Saracens face disciplinary action after Brendan Venter missed several mandatory media appearances, prompting Premiership Rugby to impose a £5,000 fine and threaten further sanctions. The club has not confirmed any change to Venter’s role, and head coach Joe Shaw is expected to take over media duties.
PFA chief Maheta Molango said Chelsea forward Cole Palmer is a “victim” of an unsustainable football calendar after he withdrew from the England squad. Molango called for a mandatory three‑week summer break, highlighting concerns over player welfare across Europe.
England women’s national team manager Sarina Wiegman announced her World Cup qualifying squad, leaving Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone and Arsenal forward Chloe Kelly out. The decision was based on their recent performances, with several other players, including newcomers, named in the 23‑player squad for the upcoming double‑header against Greece.
Sixteen-time world darts champion Phil Taylor announced he will return to professional darts after an eight‑year retirement to play in the Modus Super Series International Pairs tournament in November. He will team up with fellow former world champion Adrian Lewis, with whom he has a storied partnership in England’s World Cup of Darts.
Former England rugby captain Lawrence Dallaglio will auction his 2003 Rugby World Cup winner’s medal and other memorabilia after being declared bankrupt. The medal is expected to fetch £50,000‑£80,000, with the whole collection valued at around £180,000, and the auction is scheduled for 13 October in Northamptonshire.
Case Keenum made his first NFL start in nearly three years, throwing for 247 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for a score. His performance helped the Chicago Bears defeat the Philadelphia Eagles 27-7 at Soldier Field, marking the Eagles’ first loss of the season.
Newcastle Red Bulls have permitted All Blacks winger Fehi Fineanganofo to remain with the Hurricanes for an extra season, postponing his move to Tyneside until after the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The decision supports his ambition to represent New Zealand at the tournament while keeping his two‑year contract with the club intact for the 2027‑28 and 2028‑29 seasons.
Seven‑time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan was eliminated on the opening day of the Shenzhen Open, losing 5‑2 to Jiang Jun. The upset came after O’Sullivan had levelled the match, but Jiang surged ahead with a 108 break to secure the win. Other top players such as Zhao Xintong, Mark Williams and Judd Trump also progressed or withdrew in the early rounds.
Australia-born second‑row forward Jasmin Strange has been selected in England’s 23‑player squad for the upcoming Women’s Rugby League World Cup. The selection highlights the new heritage eligibility rules, allowing players with parentage ties to represent England despite being based in Australia.