English Premier League

Blackburn want £2.5 million for the forward, more than twice what West Ham are willing to offer as an initial sum, but they are unhappy that McCarthy has missed training this week.

“We will deal with it separately should he remain here after the transfer window has closed,” Sam Allardyce, the manager, said.

Striker Leon Best looked to have put Coventry through with a stunning goal midway through the first half, but defender Stephen Wright’s own goal in the final minute of normal time threw Pompey a lifeline and set the stage for Mbazo’s amazing winner with penalties looming.

Clouded by controversy of late and struggling in the English Premiership, the elated Bafana skipper said the victory could not have come at better time, after they were held by Coventry at home in the previous encounter to force this replay.

Although one of England’s greatest marksman Cole never played at a World Cup but enjoyed a successful club career winning countless League titles and the historic European treble with Machester United was in South Africa to attend Soccerex in Johannesburg with another Red Devils great Bryan Robson where they took part in the 5-a-side Football Festival against other legends from Brazil, The Netherlands and hosts South Africa.

Have you still got an eye for the goal?
“I don’t know about that, but it was very enjoyable to play the 5-a-side and having a look around.”