Bob Cass: The Word

I hear England coach Steve McClaren reacted with incredulity to the apology offered by Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson to manager Gareth Southgate.

According to Gibson, he handed Southgate a poisoned chalice' when he asked him to take over a team of ageing players after McClaren quit.

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In his five years as Boro boss, McClaren took them to their first-ever major trophy, reached a European final and finished in their highest-ever Premiership position.

Sources close to McClaren point out that in his final game at Fulham the squad included 11 players in their teens or barely out of them, all born within a 20-mile radius of the Riverside.

McClaren preferred to let his legacy speak for itself.

Wembley architect on Nou Camp shortlist

Norman Foster's work on Wembley Stadium has won the architect and HOK Sport a place on a shortlist of 10 candidates to refurbish the Nou Camp stadium. A panel including Barcelona vice-president Albert Vicens and director Joan Franquesa will announce the winner on September 24, the 50th anniversary of the Nou Camp's construction.

Bond pays price but Allardyce is smiling

One man who may be taking a special interest in Sam Allardyce's impending appointment as Newcastle manager is former No 2 at St James'Park, Kevin Bond.

Freddy Shepherd's confidence in the former Bolton boss clearly flies in the face of allegations made in the flawed Panorama bungs' investigation. It also contrasts with the chairman's reaction when Bond featured in the programme and was sacked. The Bournemouth boss is suing Newcastle for unfair dismissal and the BBC for defamation.

Riise and fall of Liverpool star

Liverpool midfielder John Arne Riise's off-field problems continue. Following the collapse of his sports management and travel business, it has been revealed that his company accounts have not been submitted for two years, an offence which can carry a jail sentence in Norway.