The Sports Matrix: Tuesday 16 August 2011

Supersub Aguero silences Swansea

Two goals from debutant Sergio Aguero helped Manchester City overcome a spirited Swansea 4-0. The promoted side held on for almost an hour, before three goals in 14 minutes swung the match the hosts’ way. Edin Dzeko and David Silva also found the net. MORE

Strauss deserves to be top of the tree

Andrew Strauss’ achievement in taking England to the top of the world rankings takes him to the top in any comparison of England’s greatest Test captains. His endless patience and meticulous planning have helped take England to a great place. MORE

British stars can learn from rookie

Luke Donald and Lee Westwood failed again in a Major at last week’s USPGA, and the latter could learn from the approach of rookie Keegan Bradley, who became the seventh first-time major winner in succession. MORE

Maiga pushes for Newcastle switch

The Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga has spoken of his wish to leave France and move to Newcastle United. “I want it to be done,” the 23-year-old Malian said. “England is a dream. I want to leave. I do not want to quarrel with Sochaux.”

Onions recalled to cover for injuries

Graham Onions has been called up as cover for England ahead of this week’s fourth Test against India at The Oval. The bowler last played for his country 19 months ago but injuries to James Anderson and Chris Tremlett have prompted his recall. MORE

Keane leaves Spurs and heads to US

Tottenham striker Robbie Keane last night completed his £3.5m transfer to MLS side LA Galaxy. The forward, who moves on a two-year contract, struggled for first-team action in recent years at Spurs. “It’s a dream come true,” he said of the move. MORE

Injury rules Rees out of World Cup

Wales’ preparations for next month’s World Cup have suffered another blow with the news that hooker Matthew Rees will miss the tournament. The 30-year-old is suffering from a serious neck injury that requires surgery and could threaten his career. MORE

Walcott comments rile coach Capello

England coach Fabio Capello has not taken kindly to an extract from Theo Walcott’s latest autobiography. The Arsenal forward, 22, says the Italian “killed me” when lambasting him during a training camp for last summer’s World Cup, which Walcott missed. MORE

Parklife begins with basketball

The Australian and Chinese men’s basketball teams will compete in the first competitive event at the Olympic Park as they begin the round-robin London International Basketball Invitational. Spectators will also be allowed into the Park for the first time. MORE

Opinion: James Lawton

If anyone has earned a little luck it is surely Cesc Fabregas, thanks to his wonderful pride in performance and commitment. He has behaved with decency and style, and consistently enhanced the Premier League. MORE

Fabregas happy to leave leadership role to Wilshere

After finally completing his protracted move to Barcelona, Cesc Fabregas yesterday spoke of his belief that Jack Wilshere will be more than able to fill the gap left by his departure. “There is not even a question over whether or not Arsenal’s midfield is in good hands,” the Spaniard said. “Jack will be England captain inside the next two or three years, you don’t have to be a magician to work that out.” Fabregas continued by claiming his biggest regret was not lifting a trophy as Arsenal captain and also paid tribute to former manager, Arsène Wenger, labelling him “the most important person I have met in the game.” “If Arsenal want to keep being the club they should be, they have to be always under his control.” MORE

Wenger resolute on squad strength

Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger remains confident his squad can compete for honours, despite the loss of Cesc Fabregas and mounting injury and suspension problems. “We believe we have enough strength,” he said ahead of tonight’s visit of Udinese. MORE

Rossi to miss Japan over radiation fear

Seven-time champion Valentino Rossi may miss October’s Japanese GP over radiation concerns following March’s quake and tsunami. “I don’t think I’ll go,” he said. “I hoped organisers would make the right decision. Now we’ve got a serious problem.” MORE