FOOTBALL BRIEFS

LIVERPOOL: Police were searching yesterday for thieves who broke into the house of the parents of England star Wayne Rooney and stole football items including a 2006 World Cup shirt.

Jewelry was also taken, as were England caps and the BBC Young Sports Persona-lity of the Year trophy from 2004.

“There are a number of distinctive items of footballing memorabilia that have been stolen from the house,” police said in a statement.

Police asked “members of the public to be on the lookout in case they are offered such items for sale, either on the street or in pubs or see the items for sale on the internet.”

(AP)

United to make final decision on striker

BERLIN: Bayern Munich general director Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said he was already negotiating terms with Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy but said it would be Manchester United who would make the final decision.

United were also negotiating with Real Madrid but the transfer stalled when Real’s 15 million euros was short of United’s asking price of 18 million.

“Van Nistelrooy has told us he would like to play for us next season,” Rummenigge told Sunday’s Bild newspaper.

“We have already spoken about money with him,” added Rummenigge, who continued: “It would be United who will finally decide.

“Ruud is one of the best strikers in Europe and you are guaranteed he will score goals. We still have time as the transfer window is open for another five weeks.”

(AFP)