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Former Liverpool goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar claims South African football owners have no guts to hire him, saying the bosses don’t want him to work in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

The retired goalkeeper recently revealed his interest to manage Kaizer Chiefs, explaining he has been in touch with chairman Kaizer Motaung, but football manager Bobby Motaung is the one picking the coaches for the Soweto giants.

Moreover, the former netminder alleges he is not wanted in South Africa because of his honesty, but insisted he would love to come back to the 2010 Fifa World Cup hosting nation.

"They don't want me there because I'm too honest," Grobbelaar told On The Whistle podcast as quoted by BBC Sport.

"And if there's anything that goes wrong, I'll take them straight to the courtroom. Because it's happened before and they know who they are."

The 62-year-old played in South Africa early in his career with Highlands Park and Durban City, he also assisted a number of clubs following his retirement from the game.

"South Africa, I'd love to come back there, but it depends if these owners have got balls to get Bruce Grobbelaar back for their team," he added.

On the other hand, the former Reds shot-stopper also touched on his court battles with reigning PSL champions Mamelodi Sundowns as well as SuperSport United.

"I took them to court and got paid out the rest of my contract at SuperSport and that is contrary to what rumours are in South Africa that I was fired," continued the legend.

In his response, Matsatsantsa CEO Stan Matthews refused to shed light on why the legend parted ways with the club in 2001.

"Bruce had a great chapter in our history saving us from a serious relegation threat and that's the part our club chooses to focus upon," Matthews responded.

Born in Durban, Grobbelaar also opened up signing a pre-contract with Masandawana where he was set to take over as the new head coach under the leadership of Natasha Tsichlas, saying he dragged the club to court for breaching the agreement.

In addition, the former Zimbabwe national team goalkeeper has also worked for Canadian club Ottawa Fury FC as goalkeeper coach between 2014 and 2018.

Herbert Mwachiro was among the four Football Kenya Federation (FKF) presidential aspirants who presented their nomination papers to the Electoral Board on Monday.

However, he has pointed out the flaws in the entire process and has also explained the action taken to ensure some issues are rectified. 

"I'd like to focus on the unnecessarily long dispute resolution process surrounding the election of the new officials of the FKF due to the total disregard of the rulings of the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) a constitutionally mandated organ with quasi-judicial powers," read part of the statement obtained by Goal.

"It is unfortunate that the same resolutions by the SDT touching on the integrity of the electoral process have not been adhered to. 

"I have applied to be enjoined as an interested party in the SDT appeal case... Prior to this, I have joined other stakeholders in issuing press statements and I also submitted a petition to the National Assembly, awaiting its consideration when they return from recess."

Nevertheless, the former FKF deputy CEO has clarified why he submitted his nomination papers to the Board instead of snubbing it until everything is put in order.

"I have consulted delegates across the country, my campaign team, my fellow competitors and my family on whether I should submit my nomination papers despite what has clearly been a flawed process," Mwachiro added.

"I have received unanimous backing from all the aforementioned parties with the delegates categorically stating that they would want to have options on the ballot to exercise their right to choose and to give reform a chance." 

Former Tusker FC and Kenya defender Harold Ndege accompanied him as his running mate.

Others who presented their nomination papers include Gor Mahia CEO Omondi Aduda, journalist Bonface Omondi and his running mate Innocent Mutiso. Former AFC Leopards chairman Dan Mule also presented his papers. Incumbent Nick Mwendwa had submitted his nomination papers earlier and there was no need to repeat the same.

Top candidates Sam Nyamweya, Nicholas Musonye, Sammy Shollei, and Twaha Mbarak opted not to take part.

They have since revealed they will hold a presser over the same on Tuesday, September 1. 

Real Sociedad have announced that David Silva has tested positive for the coronavirus as the former Manchester City star remains isolated and is currently asymptomatic.

The Spanish star recently completed his move to the club, departing Manchester City after a 10-year stay with the Premier League giants.

Silva's return to Spain came via a free transfer, with the midfielder stunning Lazio after opting to sign with Real Sociedad despite previously discussing a deal with the Italian side.

The 34-year-old midfielder has yet to join up with his team-mates for pre-season and will now remain isolated after Monday's positive test.

"Real Sociedad confirms that David Silva has tested positive in the PCR test carried out this morning at the Policlínica Gipuzkoa," the club said in a statement.

"This is the second test that the new Real Sociedad player has taken in the last 72 hours, the first of which took place on Friday in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and the result was negative. 

"David Silva travelled yesterday on a regular flight to Bilbao and arrived in San Sebastián at night. This morning, the second test was carried out, as indicated in the protocol for returning to activity, the result being positive.

"During these first hours in San Sebastian, David Silva has not had the opportunity to go to Zubieta or greet his new colleagues. 

"The player is already isolated and has been asymptomatic at all times. The case has been communicated to the competent health authorities."

Silva says that he has set his sights on winning silverware with Real Sociedad following his switch from Manchester City, as he hopes to help the club challenge the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona at the top of La Liga.

During his time at Manchester City, Silva won four Premier League titles, the EFL Cup five times and the FA Cup twice as he became a key figure during a golden era for the club.

Silva featured 40 times during the most recent campaign, firing six goals in what ended up being his final season in the Premier League.

Real Sociedad finished sixth in La Liga in the 2019-20 campaign, though they won just two of their 11 fixtures following the restart.

Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Robert Nauseb says Amakhosi have to “fight and win our own battles” after another Premier Soccer League (PSL) title opportunity was thrown at them following their closest challengers Mamelodi Sundowns’ defeat by Baroka FC on Sunday.

After log leaders Chiefs were edged 1-0 by Bidvest Wits on Sunday, their title chances appeared doomed, but they survived to extend their stay at the top of the standings after second-placed Sundowns also lost a few hours later.

The result against Wits was the third defeat for Chiefs in their last four games, leaving coach Ernst Middendorp's men with goal difference separating them with Downs who also have 53 points.

“We’ve been given another chance. Now we have to use it,” Nauseb told the Kaizer Chiefs website.

“We lost, Sundowns lost… it promises to be an exciting week with two more games to go to decide who will win the league title.”

Chiefs face Chippa United in their next match on Wednesday, before they wrap-up the campaign against Baroka who upset Sundowns.

Their opponents are not safe from relegation, a situation also faced by Sundowns who will play Polokwane City and Black Leopards who are fighting to preserve their PSL status.

"The Chippa game is a six-pointer,” said Nauseb.

“The pressure at the moment is on Sundowns, although, of course, we have to fight and win our own battles.”

Nauseb has picked some of the Chiefs players he feels could be crucial in the remaining matches.

The Namibian has called for senior players to rise and lead the team to a first league title since 2015 as he also gives special mention to defender Reeve Frosler and defensive midfielder Willard Katsande.

“The senior players need to take responsibility and talk with the team to make clear what is at stake because a coach can only do so much,” Nauseb said.

“That [Frosler] boy is the most versatile player I have seen in a while, he can play on the left, on the right – he is impressing me.

“He [Katsande] is a fighter on the pitch. He gives everything, it is almost as if he has two hearts in his body, he is a true leader.”

Katsande, however, started from the bench in the defeat to Wits, a decision which drew some criticism for Chiefs coach Middendorp.

Two Paris Saint-Germain players are suspected of having contracted Covid-19, the club has said.

The unnamed players remain in good health and are following protocol to minimise risk of spreading the disease, PSG say, though it is yet to be confirmed if they have it.

There have been several cases of players testing positive for Covid-19 in France in recent weeks, with Lyon star Houssem Aouar missing his team's first game of the campaign after being diagnosed while Rennes announced three confirmed cases last week.

The French national team was also hit with the news that Manchester United star Paul Pogba had tested positive, forcing the midfielder to pull out of the squad ahead of the upcoming UEFA Nations League games against Sweden and Croatia. 

PSG have not kicked off their 2020-21 campaign yet due to their involvement in the Champions League final, which they lost 1-0 to Bayern Munich on August 23.

The Ligue 1 champions will return to action on September 10 when they travel to face Lens, who are yet to collect a point after the first two rounds of the new campaign.

Nice have taken an early lead at the top of the table with six points having beaten Lens and Strasbourg, while Bordeaux, Rennes, Monaco, Nantes and Lille linger two points behind. 

After winning the domestic treble last term, PSG have been quiet in the transfer market, with Mauro Icardi the only confirmed signing after his loan from Inter was made a permanent deal.

They have, however, seen several players depart over the summer as Belgian full-back Thomas Meunier left to join Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer and Thiago Silva joined Chelsea after his contract expired.

Meanwhile, strikers Edinson Cavani and Eric Choupo-Moting were released and are yet to sign for new clubs.

Thomas Tuchel's team also saw 18-year-old prospects Tanguy Nianzou and Adil Aouchiche leave for Bayern Munich and Saint-Etienne, respectively.

Ghana forward Samuel Tetteh has stated he has not given up on gracing the top leagues in Europe despite joining Major League Soccer (MLS) side New York Red Bulls.

Earlier this month, the 24-year-old sealed a transfer from Austrian outfit Red Bull Salzburg, the deal lasting until the end of the 2020 MLS season, with an option of a permanent move.

He played on loan at LASK Linz for the past two seasons.

"Of course I would want to play in the top European leagues, moving to America does not mean the end," Tetteh told Daily Graphic.

"As a professional footballer, football will take you to many places and you need to sell yourself in any league you find yourself in. So hopefully in the future I will be back in the European league but at this point in my career I must perform in America.

"Well, it was not easy at first, making a decision to come to America but a discussion with the coach and head of sport of NYRB made things easier for me, I love their idea or the plan they have for the club and also I needed a new challenge to establish my name in a different league," Tetteh said.

"It would feel good to win the MLS because that's the target and that's the main reason why I came here, so I would be excited if we win it."

Tetteh joins compatriots and internal teammates Jonathan Mensah and Harrison Afful (both of Columbus Crew) and David Accam (Nashville) in MLS.

"I have met with the coach and some staff for now but I am not allowed to train with the team because I have to be quarantined and train individually for 10 days before joining the team in regular training," the striker added.

"When I am unleashed, I hope to score and assist as many goals as I can for the club so that we can win some silverware this season."

Tetteh joined Red Bull Salzburg from Ghana Premier League side Wafa in 2016.

Lasts season, he registered seven goals and three assists in 29 Austrian Bundesliga appearances while with LASK.

The Accra-born player, who represented Ghana at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), also made six appearances in the Uefa Europa League.

New York Red Bulls currently sit sixth on the MLS Eastern Conference table after eight matches. 

Asante Kotoko board member Kwadwo Boateng Gyamfi reveals their ambition is to win the Ghana Premier League (GPL) successively.

The renowned businessman is part of a new 12 member board set up to lead the administration of the club. 

The Kumasi-based outfit, the most successful club in the history of the Premier League, are celebrating their 85th anniversary on Monday. 

"That [winning titles] is the only way we can write our names in the history books. So we are really bent on making the club great again. By the end of our term, we would have achieved something very unique," Gyamfi told Daily Graphic. 

"We have our reputations at stake and we want to achieve success, so we will tighten the screws and do things that will uplift the image of the club.

"You see Kotoko fans need only one thing, win, and to win, you need good players and you also need to motivate them. Player motivation is very important.

"We will ensure that the right thing is done to project the image of the club and then make the fans happy. So we will do whatever we have to do to win the league continuously for about three years and if we are able to win the African trophy, the excitement will come."

Kotoko have won the league title on 23 occasions, four more than archrivals Hearts of Oak. Their last league title, though, came six years ago.

The Porcupine Warriors have also won the Ghana FA Cup on nine occasions.

“Asante Kotoko is the biggest club in Ghana, no doubt. And for me, it’s the third biggest club in Africa, in structure. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of its content," new chief executive officer Nana Yaa Amponsah said at his unveiling earlier this month. 

“I am here to help the board and the entire Kotoko fraternity to match this superstructure with befitting content.

“I dare say that Asante Kotoko is bigger than [Ghana's two main political parties] NPP [New Patriotic Party] and NDC [National Democratic Congress]. Kotoko transcends boundaries. Kotoko is a culture.

“The joy this club gives its teeming supporters cannot be matched by any political party in Ghana.

"I, therefore, plead with you to give me double the support you give your individual political parties of choice, and we will make Asante Kotoko great again.

“I’m going to make sure Kotoko participate in the Fifa Club World Cup."

Kotoko have also won the Caf Champions League on two occasions.

The 2020-21 GPL is expected to commence in October.   

Could Gor Mahia midfielder Lawrence Juma have confirmed his imminent departure to AFC Leopards or Sofapaka?

In a cryptic Facebook post on Monday, the Harambee Stars midfielder sent some fans of AFC Leopards into overdrive as the short statement could have hinted he was on the move.

Juma has been one of the Gor Mahia players who have been linked with AFC Leopards and Sofapaka and the social media post could have suggested the reports are true.

“Turn on the flashing blue lights,” Juma’s post, accompanied by a photo in the national team colours, read.

AFC Leopards, Sofapaka, and Bandari are the KPL teams that trade in blue colours.

Goal understands the midfielder has already been approached by the 2009 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) winners and personal terms have been agreed to some extent.

On Monday, a source close to AFC Leopards and Juma confirmed the club is eager to sign the former Nzoia Sugar star as they hope he would be of a great addition to a team that is rebuilding after seasons of on and off the pitch struggles.

“I understand Sofapaka have made an approach already but recently even AFC Leopards have shown interest in him,” the source told Goal.

Since joining Gor Mahia in 2017, Juma has established himself as one of the outstanding midfielders in the league. His performance for the 18-time KPL winners also saw him earn a place in the national team.

He had previously played for Nakuru All-Stars in the National Super League.

Juma was part of the squad that featured in the African Cup of Nations qualifiers against both Egypt and Togo as well as in the Cecafa tournament where Kenya failed to impress in Kampala.

Gor Mahia – who have already signed Cameroonian midfielder Bertrand Konfor, goalkeeper Levis Opiyo, Andrew Juma, Sydney Ochieng, and John Macharia – are in the process of revamping the squad ahead of their Caf Champions League duties where they hope to impress.

Juma’s departure could come out as a shock for most Gor Mahia fans who have come to adore him given his composure, ability to press and stabilise the team from the midfield.

He formed a formidable understating with captain Kenneth Muguna, something that moved Harambee Stars coach Francis Kimanzi to give both of them national team call-ups in the previous assignments.

If the Harambee Star is eventually going to ditch the Green Army, he would be following in the footsteps of David Mapigano who joined Azam FC of Tanzania, now Dodoma Jiji’s Dickson Ambundo, Boniface Omondi who left for Wazito FC and Joash Onyango who signed a two-year deal with the Tanzanian champions Simba SC.

Pep Guardiola could one day return to Barcelona as head coach of the first team, presidential candidate Toni Freixa has declared, as he revealed a manifesto designed to lift the Catalans back to the top of the game.

The Camp Nou side have seen their reputation battered in 2020, as they failed to retain their Primera Division crown and suffered a humiliating Champions League quarter-final exit at the hands of Bayern Munich, who defeated them 8-2.

With star player Lionel Messi now agitating for a move, the club finds itself in disarray and Freixa believes that they need to go back to basics, with the Manchester City boss, who won 14 titles in his previous four-year stint in charge of the club, a man he sees as a natural option to lift them back to where they belong.

“Pep once let it be known that he would like to head the Barca academy in the future, but he would also be a wonderful solution for the first team,” he told Goal. “The important thing is that the team plays successful and exciting football again, and that nothing like what happened against Bayern happens. 

“They exposed us for over 90 minutes, all the mistakes and failures of the team, but even more so the weaknesses of the sporting leadership in recent years. It was the end of the end. Now it's time for a change.”

While Xavi, the club’s great former central midfielder, has been touted as a potential coach one day, Freixa believes it is too soon to call upon the services of the World Cup winner, who is presently only one year into his career in the dugout with Al Saad.

“He would be one possibility,” Freixas said when asked if the ex-Spain man will return as coach. “Xavi is just taking his first steps as a manager, he still needs time. The question is not whether he will return, but when.”

The secretary of the club when they were in their pomp under Guardiola, Freixa has seen at first-hand what is required for success and has set out a roadmap to return to those days.

“My goal would be to bring about an era similar to the one I had under Pep,” he explained. “The past is not repeatable, but the club must go back to its base. It needs a philosophy of play that is practised both in the youth teams and in the professional team. La Masia deserves a more important role than it has today. 

“The squad must consist of world-class players and of players who can become world-class players. Here, Barca can also take Bayern Munich as an example.”

ATK Mohun Bagan FC defender Boris Singh has tested negative for the Coronavirus.

On August 20, Goal had reported that Singh had tested positive for Covid-19 and was kept in institutional quarantine in his home town though he was asymptomatic. He will be released on Tuesday after testing negative.

The young full-back was supposed to undergo strength and conditioning training in the city of Bengaluru ahead of the new season of ISL. His was the first case of Covid-19 among active high-profile footballers in India.

The fresh test result comes as a huge relief for his club as well as Indian football fans.

The 18-year-old was a key member of India's FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2017 and subsequently attracted eyeballs with his impressive performances in the I-League. Although he was a consistent performer for Indian Arrows for two seasons, the youngster is yet to make his first team debut for ATKMB in the ISL. 

He had appeared for the team's reserves side last season in the Durand Cup.

Boris had been earmarked as a huge talent ever since he caught the All India Football Federation (AIFF) scouts' eye when he led Manipur to the U14 national championship title in 2013.

He was also part of the India U20 team beat Argentina 2-1 in the COTIF tournament in Spain under Floyd Pinto's tutelage in 2018.

In response to the news that Lionel Messi has handed a transfer request in to Barcelona, Stuttgart fans have rallied around to make an audacious crowdfunded bid for the Argentina superstar.

Messi believes that he is out of contract with the Primera Division side and eligible to depart on a free transfer this summer, but La Liga has ruled in favour of his club, meaning any team that wants to sign him is likely to have to stump up his release clause of €700 million (£627m/$835m).

The Stuttgart supporters are apparently unperturbed by such an eye-wating amount of money and have set their sights on raising €900m (£805m/$1bn), presumably to finance the superstar wages that come with such a name. 

In order to generate the finances required for a deal to take place, the fans of the side that finished third bottom of the Bundesliga last season - and avoided relegation only because of their success in a play-off - are holding an unlikely whip round.

A statement on the GoFundMe page states: “We VfB fans are collecting money to pay for Lionel Messi's transfer. In the event that the planned amount is not reached on time or Lionel Messi joins another club, 100% of the money raised will be donated to Viva con Agua.”

Formed in St Pauli, Via Con Agua “is a non-profit organisation committed to ensuring that all people worldwide have access to clean drinking water”.

Manchester City, meanwhile, are leading the way in the race to sign Messi, while Paris Saint-Germain and Inter are also credited with a close interest in the player. All three clubs benefit from wealthy owners and are not having to rely on crowdfunding to generate their finances.

Stuttgart, whose star players include Orel Mangala, Nicolas Gonzalez and Silas Wamangituka, have thus far been bringing in far more modest signings this summer than Messi.

Waldemar Anton and Gregor Kobel have arrived from Hannover and Hoffenheim for reported fees of €4m (£3.5m/$4.7m), while Konstantinos Mavropanos has arrived on a one-year loan deal from Arsenal.

They will begin their Bundesliga campaign against Freiburg on Saturday, September 19.

Jack Grealish has been given a first senior call-up to Gareth Southgate's England side following a number of withdrawals from the squad.

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has pulled out with an ankle injury, while Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Harry Winks has also withdrawn, leaving spaces in the senior squad, one of which Aston Villa star Grealish has been called on to fill.

England will face Iceland in UEFA Nations League action on September 5 in Reykjavik before hosting Denmark four days later.

Villa captain Grealish has previously represented England at under-21 level and was a member of Southgate’s 2016 Toulon Tournament-winning squad, having chosen to represent the Three Lions over the Republic of Ireland, for who he was also eligible.

Grealish could be one of several England players to make his senior debut against either Iceland or Denmark, along with Wolves defender Conor Coady and Arsenal utility man Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who were also late call-ups following Southgate's initial announcement last week.

Phil Foden of Man City, Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United, and Man United duo Mason Greenwood and Dean Henderson could also win their first senior caps in the coming internationals.

Rashford meanwhile posted a message on social media following his withdrawal, saying he was disappointed to miss out but that he is still not fully fit as he recovers from an ankle knock.

He wrote on Twitter: "Gutted. Never want to let this team down but these fixtures just came a little too soon for me. I tried my best but I have to focus on starting the season at my strongest for club and country. Good luck boys, I’ll be cheering you on from home."

Grealish was the stand-out player in Aston Villa's team last season, his 10 goals and eight assists in 41 matches in all competitions in 2019/20 proving invaluable as Dean Smith's side narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League.

His initial snub by Southgate was criticised by some England fans on social media and by several pundits, including former England captain and record goal scorer Wayne Rooney.

Rooney told talkSPORT before Grealish's late call-up:  “It’s very surprising. The season he had he was outstanding.

“I’ve been there when I was a young player at Everton and the team probably weren’t to the standard I was, and I think that’s where Jack is at now – Aston Villa are not at the standard of the player he is.

“I can’t work it out why’s he’s not in the squad – I have no idea. He should be in that squad. Even if he is just in the squad to train and you just bring him on for 10 minutes to see his character and see how he reacts to it. It was shocking that he wasn’t in the squad.”

Emmanuel Dennis has expressed his delight after helping Club Brugge secure a 2-1 victory over Genk in Sunday’s Belgian First Division A game.

The 22-year-old forward was handed a starting role in the encounter and grabbed an assist to help Philippe Clement’s side secure all three points.

The Nigeria international set up Hans Vanaken to open the scoring with only 22 minutes into the encounter.

Theo Bongonda levelled proceedings for Genk before 18-year-old Senegalese forward Youssouph Badji scored the winning goal.

 “Clearly I'm happy that we grabbed the three points,” Dennis told the club website.

“With all the negative criticisms we have been given in the past week, we were extra motivated to claim the full points. And we succeeded, so you can only be happy about that.

“Also with the fact that we managed to really bring pain to Genk, particularly in the first half. We really should have scored more than once, I believe.

“Fortunately Hans was really well-positioned to head in one of my crosses from the wing, offering us a 1-0 lead as we headed for the dressing room.”

Dennis came close to scoring a goal of his own but was unable to connect with Badji’s cross and hopes his side can continue with the impressive performances when they take on Waasland-Bevere on September 12.

"That's right, I came inches close to tapping in that 0-2, but in all honesty, that cross was really hard which was probably why I came so close," he added. 

“We now need to bring that same energy to our next home game. Let's hope we can be cheered on by a couple of thousand fans, we really do miss them. Football without supporters, it really stinks, man.”

Dennis has been with Club Brugge since the summer of 2017 when he teamed up with the side from Ukrainian Premier League club Zorya Luhansk.

The forward has made 71 league appearances for the Luminus Arena outfit, scoring 19 goals amid other dazzling displays.

Dennis, who has two caps for Nigeria, will hope to continue his eye-catching performances in Belgium for a chance to enjoy regular call-up to the Super Eagles.

AC Milan have been drawn against Irish minnows Shamrock Rovers in the Europa League, while Tottenham have been handed a tie against Bulgarian side Lokomotiv Plovdiv.

The second round of qualifying will kick off on September 17, with all fixtures set to be played in a straight knockout format behind closed doors amid the continued threat of coronavirus.

In the tie of the round, Milan will travel to Dublin to take on Republic of Ireland-based Rovers, who set up the glamour encounter by beating Finnish club Ilves on penalties in the previous round.

The Rossoneri were excluded from the competition last term due to Financial Fair Play breaches, but secured sixth place in Serie A to return to the continental stage under Stefano Pioli.

Elsewhere, Spurs will come up against Lokomotiv Plovdiv in Bulgaria, as Jose Mourinho bids to bring to an end to the club's 12-year wait for major silverware.

The Lilywhites missed out on Champions League football for the first time in five years after finishing sixth in the Premier League last term, but will be expected to reach the latter stages of Europe's second-tier competition.

Scottish giants Rangers, currently helmed by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, will also be competing in the Europa League in 2020-21, with their first qualifying encounter coming against Lincoln Red Imps in Gibraltar.

Rangers' arch-rivals Celtic will join the competition at the next stage, having been knocked out of the Champions League at home by Hungarian outfit Ferencvaros in embarrassing fashion earlier this month.

Two more Scottish clubs are scheduled to join the Gers in the second qualifying round, with Aberdeen set for an away clash against Viking of Norway while Motherwell are due to face Coleraine from Northern Ireland.

The draw for the third round of qualifying for the Champions League also took place on Monday, as Celtic's conquerors Ferencvaros were rewarded with a tie against Dinamo Zagreb.

Benfica will take on PAOK. Jorge Jesus' side will head to Thessaloniki on September 15 or 16 to face the team that knocked out Turkish club Besiktas in the previous round.

Eredivisie side AZ face a visit to Dynamo Kiev, Gent will play Rapid Vienna, Qarabag take on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's former side Molde, Red Star Belgrade visit Omonia Nicosia and Maccabi Tel-Aviv host Dinamo Brest.

Swiss champions Young Boys head to Denmark to face Midtjylland.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has stated it will "strictly enforce" health and safety protocols at its Ordinary Session of Congress on Tuesday amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

Originally scheduled to take place online via video conferencing technology Zoom, the meeting has been re-organised to an in-person session following the lifting of conferencing restrictions as the nation continues its way back to regular socio-economic activities after the implementation of various Covid-19 restrictions. 

The convocation, meanwhile, has also had to fight boycott threats over a supposed inappropriate choice of date. 

"The Ghana Football Association wishes to inform members and all stakeholders that the Association will fully comply with all Covid-19 safety protocols at the 26th Ordinary Congress on Tuesday," the GFA has announced on its official website.

"Thermometer guns, hand-washing buckets, hand sanitizers and other Personnel Preventive Equipment will be provided at the Congress which will be held at the GFA Technical Centre (GSCE) at Prampram on Tuesday.

"Strict security measures will be enforced at the venue from the entrance to the main hall to ensure that Members of Congress, Invited Guests and the accredited Media men and women go through the health and safety procedures put in place successfully.

"Only accredited representatives nominated by Members of Congress will be allowed into the Congress premises in accordance with the Social Distancing Protocols.

"Participants are therefore urged to come early on Tuesday to ensure a successful Congress.

"Delegates are kindly reminded that No Mask No Entry!"

On the agenda of the meeting is the review of the activity report for the 2019-20 football season which had to be cancelled midway through due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Also, there will be a presentation and approval of the GFA budget for the 2020-21 financial year.

The Ordinary Session of Congress was also originally scheduled to take place on August 27.

The event is an annual one which officially closes a football season and paves the way for an Extra-Ordinary Session of Congress to usher in a new term.

The 2020-21 domestic campaign, headlined by the men’s Premier League (GPL) and FA Cup competitions, has been tentatively set to commence in the second week of October should it get clearance from the Government of Ghana.

Conor Gallagher has completed a medical at Crystal Palace ahead of a season-long loan at Selhurst Park - however the move is being delayed by contract talks in west London.

Chelsea are trying to tie down their 20-year-old star, who was the pick of the bunch from last season's loan group, due to him having less than two years on his current deal.

It is expected that a deal will be agreed for the season-long loan that will see Gallagher follow in Ruben Loftus-Cheek's footsteps, having had a year in South London before earning a permanent spot in the first-team squad.

Lampard played Gallagher in the 1-1 draw with Brighton at the Amex Stadium in a friendly on Saturday ahead of the 2020-21 season.

Gallagher has targeted a Premier League loan move this season and Palace won the race amid competition from several fellow top-flight clubs.

This comes after the homegrown star spent last season on loan at both Charlton Athletic and Swansea City, ultimately losing in the Championship play-off semi-finals for the South Wales club.

The England Under-21 made an impact in the Championship, playing in 47 games, scoring six goals and claiming 11 assists.

Meanwhile, Ethan Ampadu also featured in the pre-season friendly and remains intent on trying to earn a spot in Lampard's squad despite loan interest.

Jake Clarke-Salter looks set for another loan in the Championship, with Derby County, Huddersfield Town, Birmingham City and Sheffield Wednesday showing an interest in him.

Newly-promoted Premier League side West Bromwich Albion could be another option as Chelsea assess which club would be best for his development, following a good year at Birmingham last season.

USMNT international Matt Miazga is set for another season out on loan with a host of clubs overseas looking at securing the defender. Danny Drinkwater and Baba Rahman both lined up for the Under-23s against Palace this weekend and are also exploring their options for moves away.

Meanwhile, Rennes, along with a host of Premier League clubs, have offered Fikayo Tomori a loan move. Everton are among those still tracking the homegrown defender, who broke through last season.

Chelsea's newest recruit Malang Sarr has loan interest from Germany after Chelsea announced he would spend next season on loan, despite only being signed last week.

Nathan Baxter and Dujon Sterling will also likely spend another season out on temporary moves from Chelsea, with 10 players in the group that are overseen by Claude Makelele's loan department.

Ugandan Premier League (UPL) side Onduparaka FC have sealed double signings ahead of the new season.

“We are delighted to announce the signing of holding midfielder Okot Simon and goalkeeper Ogiramoi Stephen as we continue to strengthen the squad ahead of the forthcoming season,” the club confirmed on their official website.

“Okot who previously featured for Katwe United and is part of the Acholi Province Team joins us on a two-year contract while former U-Touch goalkeeper Ogiramoi has signed a three-year contract to stay with us.

“The duo joins our already signed players who are expected to link up with the Arua team soon as the season preparations begin.”

The signing of the duo comes just a day after the club announced the signing of free agent Augustine Opoka.

Opoka, who formerly turning out for Busoga United, signed a two-year deal with the Caterpillars and became the 10th new player to arrive.

“You requested for a UPL material, we heard you and now we give you a UPL material,” the club confirmed while unveiling Opoka on Sunday. “Welcome goalkeeper [Augustine] Opoka from Busoga United who has joined us on a two-year deal”

At Busoga United, Opoka did not manage to command a place in the starting line up regularly with stiff competition coming from Rodgers Omedwa and Ali Kimera.

At his new home, he will have to square it out with Yussuf Wasswa, who was largely trusted last season. Opoka had featured for Spartans FC, Kamwoka, and Kampala University FC.

Coach Vialli Bainomugisha will work with the new players including Gabriel Matata, Augustine Akoch, Nelson Opiyo, Emmanuel Odur, Emmanuel Okech, Bony Musema, Jerry Jakisa, Kennedy Atibuni, and Jasper Okello.

Meanwhile, the Caterpillars have announced Dan Obote as their chief scout.

The club has maintained their strategy of spreading to other parts of the country will be achieved if they sign talents far away from the West Nile region.

“As Onduparaka Football Club aims to extend its love beyond West Nile to other regions of the country and abroad, we are delighted to welcome and announce  [Dan Obote] as the club’s chief scout for Lango and North Eastern region,” the club announced.

“Obote who holds coaching qualifications in Fufa beginners Level D and Caf C Coaching license is a retired professional Uganda Cranes international who also featured for the U20 [Hippos] and U23 [Kobs].”

During his heyday, Obote had an active career that saw him feature not only for Ugandan clubs but also for regional outfits.

Obote played for Uganda Revenue Authority (URA FC), SC Villa, and Boroboro FC in Uganda. The scout played for Rayon Sports of Rwanda as well as a number of South African clubs that include Vasco Da Gama, FC Cape Town, and Ikapa Sporting.

Jamshedpur FC have announced the signing of midfielder Alexandre Monteiro de Lima for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) season.

The Brazilian midfielder will be Jamshedpur's fourth overseas player for the season along with Aitor Monroy, David Grande and Nerijus Valskis.

The 31-year-old last plied his trade with Vietnamese outfit Ho Chi Minh City FC where his stint was shortlived.

Alex Monteiro de Lima is a creative midfielder who plays behind the number nine. He has played for various clubs in Asia including Suwon FC and FC Anyang in South Korea's second division.

The Gremio youth product started his senior career in Switzerland with Wohlen and has played for Chicago Fire in the Major League Soccer.

Jamshedpur Head Coach, Owen Coyle, shared his excitement at Alex's signing. He said, “Alex is a player of multiple capabilities. A team-player, aggressive, smart, quick, a powerhouse – I could go on with a hundred adjectives and yet, it would not be enough to describe him.

"He is an amazing talent who can unlock the toughest of defences. I remember I signed him when I was a coach at Houston and he did his job perfectly well for the club and I hope he will do the same here. A warm welcome to Alex. Wishing him a successful time with us.”

On joining the club, Alex said, "I have played football across four continents. To now join this exciting league wearing the colours of one of the top teams of India makes me extremely proud. I can’t wait to meet my teammates."

Midfielder Ronald Ssekiganda has revealed the inspiration behind his move to Sports Club Villa.

The Ugandan signed a two-year deal with the record Premier League champions and said it is a privilege to join his boyhood club.

“Villa have always been a special club for me. It has always been in my blood,” Ssekiganda told Football256.

“Since I started playing football as a small boy, this was simply the club for me.

“I once told my agent that one day I would love to play in the blue jersey. However, I had to first play at a lower division side in order to develop and mature for the big stage before signing for my darling club.

“I honestly believe that it is a privilege to play for the club and at the same time have the opportunity to help bring this club back to the top of Ugandan football because it’s where it belongs.”

Ssekiganda featured in the 2019 Airtel Masaza Cup for Bulemeezi and went on to win the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament award. He has also played for Ssingo FC, Buruuli FC in the Masaza Cup as well.

Lungujja Galaxy and CATIDA in the third division have also been his homes.

“I had some good years in Masaza Cup, and it was great playing there,” Ssekiganda added.

“We live in a changing world and always new players come in which literally means those that have been there for a long time like me have to move on.

“From the fans, administrators, players and every one playing a role in the Masaza Cup, I wish you all the very best, and I know that you feel the same about me.”

He became the fifth new signing made by SC Villa after Meddie Kibirige, Martin Ssenkooto, Andrew Kiwanuka and Geoffrey Oyirwoth.

Right-back Joseph Nsubuga and goalkeeper Saidi Keni have renewed their contracts with the Jogoos ahead of the 2020/21 season that will tentatively start on October 17.

Meanwhile, Richard Matovu has returned to Kyetume FC from BUL FC.

The left-back had joined the Jinja club for the 2017/18 season and spent two years establishing himself as one of the dependable full-backs at the club.

“I thank God for those two years which I have been in BUL. The fact is I am going to miss you guys. I am going to miss BUL family just know that I love you all guys. God bless all of you,” Matovu said as per Kawowo Sports.