Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers had ruled out bringing in a specialist defensive coach, and insists he will continue to give 24-year-old striker Mario Balotelli opportunities in the first team – (Guardian)
Former England captain Rio Ferdinand, 35, is considering retiring from football at the end of the season – (Independent)
Sunderland manager Gus Poyet was unhappy at having to start the season with only six senior defenders in his squad – (Northern Echo)
Crystal Palace have denied rumours of an imminent takeover by US billionaire Joshua Harris – (Daily Mirror)
Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero admits he knew enough swear words at the age of 10 to shout at Michael Owen when the England striker scored against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup, but says he later idolised the former Liverpool striker – (Daily Mirror)