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Today's other stories in brief

Gibson commits future to United

MANCHESTER UNITED have agreed a contract extension with Republic of Ireland midfielder Darron Gibson to keep him at Old Trafford until 2012.

Gibson (21) is highly regarded by United boss Alex Ferguson and enjoyed a breakthrough season last term when he made 14 appearances.

He was a key part of their League Cup success and marked his potential on the final day of the season when he scored the only goal of the game against Hull City with a spectacular long-range strike.

“I am very happy to commit my future to United,” he said.

Hartson undergoes emergency neurosurgery

JOHN HARTSON has undergone emergency neurosurgery to relieve pressure on his brain, the hospital treating him said yesterday.

It was revealed earlier this week that the former Celtic, West Ham and Arsenal striker had been diagnosed with testicular cancer, which had spread to his brain.

A statement from Morriston Hospital in Swansea said cancer had now also been diagnosed in his lungs. The statement from Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University NHS Trust said: “John Hartson was transferred from Singleton Hospital to Morriston Hospital yesterday evening (Tuesday), where he received emergency neurosurgery to relieve pressure on his brain.

“He is currently being cared for by the critical care team at Morriston and is receiving round-the-clock care aiming to stabilise his condition. Unfortunately, cancer has now also been diagnosed in his lungs.

Harton’s family said yesterday: “We have been overwhelmed by the support and goodwill from many thousands of football fans, players, clubs and sporting figures.”

Lawrence signs new contract

Stoke’s Republic of Ireland international Liam Lawrence has agreed a new four-year contract to stay at the Britannia Stadium.

The 27-year-old has been in discussions for a couple of weeks with Stoke. The new deal ties Lawrence to the club for a further two seasons on improved personal terms.

He said: “I always knew it would get done, there was never any question of that, and now I can concentrate on performing on the pitch. Now to know that I will be spending the best years of my career here is fantastic.”

Newcastle rule out Kinnear return

NEWCASTLE HAVE confirmed that Joe Kinnear is not returning as manager. There were reports yesterday that the 62-year-old was poised to resume at the helm as efforts to sell the club continue.

However, the Magpies have released a statement insisting there are no immediate plans to bring Kinnear back. A statement said: “Reports in the press this morning that Joe Kinnear is to be appointed as Newcastle United manager are not true.

“The position remains that the club is still in the market to be sold and is still negotiating with prospective buyers.”