An appreciation of Matip, Liverpool’s weak link that isn’t
Virgil van Dijk is seen as the gemstone of the Reds’ defence but it feels churlish not to mention the man who has come from fourth-choice centre-half to establish himself as his natural partner
Guardiola’s Bernardo defence showed worrying ignorance of racism
The Jonathan Liew column: Guardiola could easily have withheld comment. Or he could have stood squarely behind the player, offering Bernardo his support whilst also acknowledging the offence caused. Instead, he doubled down
England seize control as Root's men promise final flourish to Ashes
England (294 & 313-8) lead Australia (225) by 382 runs: This is a team with holes and flaws but no lack of spirit, and as they made Australia toil in the unseasonable September sun, it was possible to wonder if a few of their problems may just be working themselves out
Archer and Curran cut down Australia as England fight on
England (294 & 9-0) lead Australia (225) by 78 runs: The Ashes may be gone, but this was the performance of a team that still reckons it has plenty to play for