AUSTRALIA and Asia today joined the growing world-wide snub for the English Premier League's efforts to stage matches on foreign soil.

Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and the US already oppose the idea and Fifa will discuss it on March 14. Jim Duffy has declared his interest in the Morton job. Also quoted is former Derby coach John Davies. Kilmarnock's French midfielder Eric Skora, 26, has been forced to retire with knee trouble. The FA will take no action against Joey Barton after a weekend incident with Shaun Maloney. They also have quashed the red card issued to West Ham's Lee Bowyer Man United will contest the Vodacom Challenge in South Africa this summer against local sides Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. AC Milan may not release Kaka for Brazil at the summer Olympics, according to general secretary Leonardo. Southampton are set to unveil their new statue of the legendary Ted Bates, who spent 66 years at the club before he died in 2003. The original statue was pulled down because it looked more like Jimmy Krankie. Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano, 81, will be honoured by the club, plus Fifa and Uefa, on Sunday when his statue is unveiled. England top Uefa's fair play rankings and could win an extra Uefa Cup spot. Man City midfielder Dietmar Hamann, 34, has signed a new one-year deal. Stories in today's English papers Didier Drogba admits he wants to leave Chelsea for Barcelona. Graham Taylor slams plans for overseas games and fears Man United could be based in Dubai. Sir Alex Ferguson reckons Arsenal will blow title - again. Wayne Bridge in Chelsea transfer threat over Carling Cup Final place.