Ledley King has revealed how the anguish of his son's premature birth put England's Euro 2004 defeat into perspective.

As England went out to Portugal King was on a frantic dash across Europe to be with his girlfriend, who had given birth to their son nine weeks early.

King's son Coby is still in hospital while the Spurs defender has been given time off to spend every day with his girlfriend.

King said: "Watching England lose on penalties was terrible.

"But having a son born nine weeks premature on the very same day put things into perspective. Sometimes there are tougher things than losing on penalties." (Sun)

*********

Real Madrid believe they can capture the signing of Patrick Vieira for £30m.

The Gunners are adamant they will not let their captain leave Highbury.

But the Spanish giants believe there is a clause in his contract which means they can snap up the midfielder if the price is right. (Sun/Mirror)

*********

Manchester United are on the hunt for the man to replace Sir Alex Ferguson.

The club have confirmed they have begun their search to replace the United boss, who still has three years to run on his contract.

Old Trafford Chief Executive David Gill said: "We keep an eye on young players coming through but it is difficult. The hot young star of today could be the cold star of tomrrow." (Express)

*********

Birmingham City have turned their noses up at Everton's bid for Robbie Savage.

David Moyes has bid £2.5m for the combative midfielder, but the Midlands club have insisted the offer is not close to the amount they are looking for.

Manager Steve Bruce said: "Despite all that has gone on this is the first offer we have received and it is nowhere near good enough.

"There is no chance of Everton getting Savage for that kind of money." (All papers)

*********

Juninho has pledged his future to Middlesbrough.

The Brazilian faces a battle to secure a place in Steve McClaren's side after a mad summer of spending.

But the 31-year-old said: "I want to play for Middlesbrough. This is where I want to be."

*********

Patrick Kluivert has set Newcastle a two-week deadline to sign him.

The Dutch striker has been watched closely by Sir Bobby Robson as he looks to add to his strike force.

And Kluivert's agent confirmed: "Newcastle have shown as interest and have promised to follow that up. We have to make up our minds in the next 14 days."