Xabi Alonso’s short-lived spell as Real Madrid coach unravelled amid heavy defeats in big games, dressing-room ego clashes, tactical inconsistency and a lack of trust in young talent. Despite arriving with pedigree after a historic spell at Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso struggled to impose authority and clarity at Madrid, leading to his exit

Former England striker Peter Crouch had a forgetful moment after leaving his wife Abbey Clancy’s birthday gift on a train in London. The jewellery bag was spotted by a fellow commuter, who alerted Clancy on Instagram, ensuring the present was safely recovered from station authorities