From the back pages, July 9: Andy Murray plays down talk of a knighthood
ENGLAND have been installed as clear favourites by a leading bookmaker to win the Ashes series this summer. (The Express)
Gareth Bale delivered the sort of clue Tottenham supporters have been searching for when he appeared with the familiar cockerel crest on his chest at the new shirt launch. Bale was one of four players selected to model the new Under Armour kit in London on Monday after the first pre-season training session. (Daily Mail)
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Hide AdChelsea boss Jose Mourinho is lining up a sensational £40million move for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez. Arsenal have already had an enquiry knocked back, but Chelsea are ready to test Liverpool’s resolve not to sell the Uruguayan. (Mirror)
Bernie Ecclestone has ordered crews working for his Formula One television operation to stand on the pitwall from the next race after one of his cameraman was hit by a flying wheel at the German Grand Prix. (The Times)
Graeme Swann believes England’s cricketers can ride a sporting wave of success over the next six weeks to complete a third consecutive Ashes triumph. (Guardian)
For a bunch of supposedly weakened, vulnerable riders expected to be found in R & R mode at the seaside in southern Brittany, race leader Chris Froome and his Sky team were in bullish, combative mood as they talked of their relish for their Tour de France fight when the race resumes in Saint-Gildas-Des-Bois. (Telegraph)
ATLETICO MADRID have beaten Tottenham in the race to sign David Villa. Barcelona have agreed a deal with their La Liga rivals to sell the Spanish striker for a bargain £4.4million. (The Sun)