ules Bianchi: Injured Formula 1 driver 'out of coma'

ules Bianchi: Injured Formula 1 driver 'out of coma'

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Formula 1 driver Jules Bianchi is no longer in an artificial coma and is breathing unaided, his parents have said in a statement.

The Marussia driver, 25, suffered severe head injuries when he crashed in wet conditions into a recovery vehicle at the Japanese GP on 5 October.
The Frenchman has been flown from hospital in Yokkaichi to intensive care in Nice, where he arrived earlier.

However his condition is still "critical" and he remains unconscious.
"Almost seven weeks after Jules' accident at Suzuka Circuit, and following a challenging period of neurological intensive care, we are able to announce Jules has made an important step," his parents Philippe and Christine Bianchi said.

"His treatment now enters a new phase concerned with the improvement of his brain function.
"Although the situation continues to be serious, and may remain so, it was decided that Jules was sufficiently stable to be repatriated to his native France."
They said they were "relieved" to confirm their son had been transferred to Le Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, "where he arrived just a short time ago".

Formula 1's drivers paid tribute to Jules Bianchi before the Russian Grand Prix a week after the crash

Bianchi suffered a diffuse axonal injury  when he crashed into a tractor vehicle at Suzuka that was recovering Adrian Sutil's Sauber.
The Marussia team ran with one car the following week at the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi, where Lewis Hamilton dedicated his win to Bianchi.
His parents praised the "outstanding care" Bianchi received following the accident from doctors at the Mie General Medical Centre in Yokkaichi, adding they owed "an enormous debt of gratitude".
"We are thankful the next phase of Jules' treatment can continue close to home, where he can be surrounded and supported by his wider family and friends," they said.

Since the crash, Formula 1's governing body the FIA has begun working on a plan for a 'virtual safety car' to force drivers to slow for warning flags in an accident zone.
Drivers tested such a car following first practice for the US Grand Prix on 31 October, however the system cannot be implemented immediately because of the complexity of the cars

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Arsenal are back in the hunt for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema after making him a top target ahead of the January transfer window.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has made no secret of his interest in Benzema, having reportedly tried to sign him in each of the last three transfer windows.
And now reports say the Frenchman will try again in the new year, having made Benzema a top target in Arsenal’s hunt for a new striker.

Liverpool are also keen on Benzema, who is rated at about £40million, and they’re also eyeing up a move when the window re-opens.
Madrid are reluctant to do business without having a replacement lined up, but Arsenal do enjoy a great relationship with them – which could prove to be crucial in any deal.
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Reigning champions Nigeria will not defend their title in Equatorial Guinea after failing to qualify from Group A.

In Wednesday's final round of matches, Nigeria were held 2-2 by South Africa in Uyo, meaning they finished outside of their group's top two automatic qualification spots with eight points - a total that also put them out of the running to be the best third-placed team.
South Africa had already assured their place at the tournament, which will be played from 17 January to 8 February, and only one spot is still outstanding.
Congo Brazzaville, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Guinea, Mali and DR Congo all claimed their tickets to the continent's showpiece event with their results on Wednesday.

2015 Africa Cup of Nations finalists
Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Congo Brazzaville, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea (as hosts), Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Mali, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia and Zambia.

Group A

Wednesday's results

• Group D
• Ivory Coast 0-0 Cameroon
• DR Congo 3-1 Sierra Leone
• Group B
• Ethiopia 0-0 Malawi
• Mali 2-0 Algeria
• Group E
• Ghana 3-1 Togo
• Guinea 2-0 Uganda
• Group F
• Niger 1-1 Mozambique
• Zambia 1-0 Cape Verde
• Group A
• Nigeria 2-2 South Africa
• Sudan 0-1 Congo
• Group C
• Burkina Faso 1-1 Angola
• Gabon 4-2 Lesotho
• Group G
• Senegal 3-0 Botswana
• Tunisia 2-1 Egypt

Nigeria went into the game against South Africa with their fate in their own hands - win and they would claim second spot in the table and a place in the finals alongside group winners Bafana Bafana.

But the Super Eagles blew their chance to prevent a troubled campaign from turning disastrous, even though they fought back from two goals down to finish with a draw.
The writing was on the wall for Stephen Keshi's side, who have been plagued by both on and off the pitch problems, when Tokelo Rantie scored a goal either side of half-time to put the visitors firmly in control.
Sone Aluko pulled a goal back on 68 minutes and Nigerian hopes were raised further when South Africa's Renielwe Letsholonyane was sent off.
In added time Aluko levelled the scores but it was too late for the home side and they once more miss out on playing in Equatorial Guinea, as they did when the country co-hosted the tournament in 2012.
Instead, the runners-up spot in the table - and a place in the finals - was secured by Congo, who beat Sudan 1-0.
Igor Nganga struck the only goal of the game after 63 minutes.

Group B

Mali made it through to the finals with a 2-0 win over Algeria, who had already won the group and booked their place.
Seydou Keita scored from the penalty spot, picking himself up to take it after he had been fouled by Carl Medjani, to give his side the lead after 29 minutes.
The advantage was doubled early into the second half when Mustapha Yatabare converted.
It was the first defeat of the campaign for Algeria, who made several changes to their starting line-up, and brought to an end the Desert Foxes' prefect record.
In the group's other match, Malawi and Ethiopia drew 0-0 - a result that ended both sides' chances of making it to the final.

Group C

Both Burkina Faso and Gabon had already qualified from the group, so the only bearing their matches had was to see who would end up as group winners. That accolade went to Gabon who beat Lesotho 4-2 in Libreville.
Burkina Faso were held to a 1-1 draw by Angola in Ouagadougou. A Djalma Campos penlaty put Angola ahead, with Jonathan Pitroipa equalising for hosts on the stroke of half-time also from the penalty spot.

Group D

Gervinho (front) was heavily involved for Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast needed only a point from their meeting Cameroon, who had already won the group before the game, and the pair played out a goalless draw.
Cameroon played the last 30 minutes with 10 men following the sending off of Stephane Mbia.
The Indomitable Lions captain was shown a straight red card for a foul on Gervinho on the edge of the area.
From the resultant free-kick, Yaya Toure's shot was headed off the line - the closest either side came to breaking the deadlock.

In the other match DR Congo came from a goal behind to beat visiting Sierra Leone 3-1.
The Leone Stars, who began the match knowing they had no chance of qualifying for the finals, opened the scoring on 35 minutes with a long-range effort from outside the area.
Crystal Palace midfielder Yannick Bolasie drew the sides level just before half-time when he controlled the ball on his chest and smashed home from outside the box.
Sierra Leone conceded a penalty on 62 minutes, having a man sent off as a result, and Cedric Mongongu stepped up to put the Leopards ahead.
Bolasie then scored a second to seal the win - and with Egypt losing against Tunisia later on Wednesday it meant DR Congo qualified as one of the best third-placed sides.

Group E

Wakaso scored a sensational goal from long distance to put Ghana 2-0 up

Ghana clinched top place in the group as they comfortably beat Togo 3-1.
Celtic's Mubarak Wakaso crossed for Abdul Majeed Waris to head home for Ghana's opener.
Provider Wakaso then turned goalscorer, belting in a 35-yard shot into the top-right corner to double his side's advantage.
After the break, Floyd Ayite pulled a goal back for the visitors but the Black Stars made sure of victory when Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu made it 3-1 on 69 minutes.
The other automatic qualification spot in the group went to Guinea, who beat Uganda 2-0 in their winner-takes-all clash.
Borussia Monchengladbach's Ibrahima Traore set them on their way with a curling free-kick.
Thirteen minutes after the interval Ugandan skipper Andrew Mwesigwa was sent off when he conceded a penalty and Seydouba Soumah made no mistake from the spot.
Guinea's qualification comes despite them not being able to play any of their group matches at home because of the severity of the outbreak of Ebola in their country.
In addition, some of the players had to go against the wishes of their clubs to be able to play in the qualification matches.

Group F

With Cape Verde having already sewn up top place in the group and Zambia qualified as runners-up before Wednesday's final round of matches, they went head-to-head little at stake.
It took 77 minutes for Roland Kampamba to break the deadlock and that goal proved to be the only one of the game as Chipolopolo ended their campaign with a 1-0 win.
Niger and Mozambique drew 1-1 to finish fourth and third in the group, respectively.
Antonio Alberto Diogo opened the scoring for Mozambique but with only seven minutes remaining Niger salvaged a point.

Group G

Mohamed Salah gave Egypt hope with an early goal before they lost 2-1 to Tunisia

Tunisia and Senegal had already qualified from Group G before the final round of games were played.
Senegal comfortably won 3-0 against Botswana, who finished the campaign with just one solitary point.
Egypt needed to defeat Tunisia by two clear goals to clinch a place as a third-placed finisher but lost 2-1, with DR Congo claiming the 16th and final qualifying spot.
Chelsea winger Mohamed Salah boosted Egypt's hopes early on with a goal in the 15th minute. But Tunisia fought back, first through Yassine Chikhaoui in the 53rd minute, and then with an 81st minute winner from Wahbi Khazri, leaving the seven times former champions to miss out on qualification.
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Manchester United’s Portuguese duo Nani and Anderson might not have been everyone’s cup of tea at Old Trafford but they certainly helped morale in the dressing room.
Both still on the books but away from the club, their memory lives on.
Marouane Fellaini and Adnan Januzaj, in a club Q&A, revealed what they brought to the dressing room at Old Trafford.

The Belgium duo quizzed each other on all things from birthday dates, football heroes and Fellaini reckons Anderson brought down the house with his sense of humour.
“Ando,” he replied when Januzaj asked who was funniest at Old Trafford.
“How he talks, how he dresses, how he explained things.”
And Nani, on loan at Sporting Lisbon and in danger of angering United fans for his tackle on Angel Di maria, is the best dancer according to Januzaj.
“I’d say Fellaini,” Januzaj said to start with when asked by his compatriot before continuing, “No I don’t know to be honest I’ve never seen someone dancing here – I’d say Nani but, I don’t know now.”
The former Everton star also admitted his biggest strength was his physically and heading.
While Januzaj said his footballing heroEes were Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane and Juan Roman Riquelme.
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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that striker Olivier Giroud is available for selection in Saturday’s Premier League clash against Manchester United.
The French forward, who was Arsenal’s leading scorer last season with 22 goals, has not played since breaking his leg in a 2-2 draw at Everton in August.
It was feared that the 28-year-old would be out of action until the New Year, but his recovery has been quicker than anticipated.

“He is three or four weeks ahead of schedule,” Wenger told Arsenal.com. “Originally we planned to have him back for competition at the beginning of next year. So he’s one month ahead.”
In Giroud’s absence, the Gunners have relied on summer signings Danny Welbeck and Alexis Sanchez as their main attacking outlets.
Wenger is pleased to have Giroud back in the fold as the former Montpellier frontman gives him a ‘different option’.
“We have Giroud back, we have [Theo] Walcott back. Slowly they will integrate into the team again and give us different options,” he said.
Arsenal could also welcome captain Mikel Arteta back this weekend. The Spanish midfielder missed the 2-1 defeat at Swansea City with a hamstring strain.
Wenger added: “Giroud and Arteta are both available. It’s just a question of how ready they are. But they are available.”
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Vincent Kompany’s agent has revealed why his client didn’t move to Arsenal in 2006, telling reporters that he felt that the Belgium international was not ready to move to a top club.
Kompany instead moved to Hamburg, where he stayed for two seasons before heading to the Premier League with Manchester City, and the City captain’s agent has spilled the beans on why he turned down moves to Arsenal, Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Jacques Lichtenstein, the 28-year-old’s agent since his Anderlecht days, has spoken about the failed 2006 move, saying that it was not the right time.

“I had meetings with Emilio Butragueno at Real Madrid, the club leaders at Barcelona and by Arsene Wenger himself at Arsenal,” Lichtenstein opened, before outlining the reasons he chose Hamburg instead.
“But heading to an absolute top club immediately was not the right solution because Vincent is someone who feels alone in an environment where he is not properly valued.
“Vincent is not a third or fourth choice. In Hamburg that was not the case. He was the biggest transfer in the history of the club.
“The basis of his success is his values, both within his family and with his friends. That’s the difference between him and other extremely talented footballers, guys who will never rise to become captain of Manchester City and Belgium.”
The move appears to have since been justified, with Kompany winning two Premier League titles since his move to Manchester and becoming captain of both his club and country.
This season he has played in ten of City’s 11 Premier League games, although has only been able to help them to third place in the table. Eight points behind leaders Chelsea, City have six wins and three draws from their opening 11 games and next face Swansea on Saturday.
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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger reported good news when he spoke about injured defenders Mathieu Debuchy and Laurent Koscielny on Thursday.
The French international will both miss Saturday’s game against Manchester United with ankle and calf problems respectively.

However, both are recovering well and should return to action in December.
Wenger told Arsenal.com: “Koscielny and Debuchy are doing well, they are out on the field [working] again.
“We have to see now. Usually field work is three weeks away from full group training. Then there is fitness.
“It looks straightforward for Debuchy. It’s not inflammation, it’s just repairing surgery. For Koscielny, it depends how well he responds to training. At the moment he looks good.”
Olivier Giroud and Mikel are available to face United, but Mesut Ozil will remain on the sidelines until the New Year.

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Arsenal are trying to push through a £19million deal for Bayer Leverkusen star Lars Bender – after Barcelona joined the race.
The Gunners have been chasing Bender since last summer and have turned their attention to signing him this week, with a move for Sami Khedira looking unlikely.
And now reports say Arsene Wenger is trying to hurry through a £19million deal for Bender, after being told that Barca are ready to make a bid.

Arsenal want the tough-tackling defensive midfielder signed up as soon as possible and are hopeful of getting a deal done before Barca can open talks.

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Depression is one of the deadliest illnesses around today; it kills an overwhelming number of people yearly, yet it’s one of the most overlooked sicknesses. Depression has caused many lives to be cut short; most suicide cases are as a result of the dreaded illness. What’s worse is that it’s difficult to detect by people (except doctors, of course) since it doesn’t come with immediately- damaging symptoms or signs.
According to the federal government source for women’s health information, “depression is an illness that involves the body, mood and thoughts. It affects the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself, and the way you think about things. There’s no known cause of depression; although most victims have a family history of the illness; that doesn’t make anyone immune to depression. Stress is said to be a major contributing factor for depression. Going through traumatic experiences like a bad divorce, job loss, or other serious disease can also lead to depression.

Depression comes with a few symptoms; they include…
Unexplained sadness or emptiness
Persistent feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness
Loss of interest in favourite activities
Irritation
Lack of sleep
Loss of appetite
Sudden alcoholism or drug addiction/abuse
Thoughts of suicide

So how does one fight the illness? Fighting depression is a very difficult thing to do because in a depressed state, it’s often hard to get yourself to think about anything good; your mind is filled with negativity so it becomes hard to even think about a solution. However, that doesn’t mean it is a completely hopeless condition; no. Depression can be remedied if diagnosed early, and steps are taken to reverse it. The key to recovery from depression is making up your mind to do whatever it takes be free from it. There are a host of ways one can fight the condition, and if followed, slowly but surely, total recovery is certain. There are some of the things you can do to overcome depression

1. ASSOCIATE WITH PEOPLE MORE
Getting the support you need plays a big role in lifting the fog of depression and keeping it away. On your own, it can be difficult to maintain perspective and sustain the effort required to beat depression, but the very nature of depression makes it difficult to reach out for help. However, isolation and loneliness make depression even worse, so maintaining your close relationships and social activities are important.
The thought of reaching out to even close family members and friends can seem overwhelming. You may feel ashamed, too exhausted to talk, or guilty for neglecting the relationship. Remind yourself that this is the depression talking. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness and it won’t mean you’re a burden to others. Your loved ones care about you and want to help. Talking to people will afford you an opportunity to get some of the burden off your mind (help clear your head). They do not even need to offer you help per se, all they need to do is give you listening ears, and I assure you, it’ll go a long way. Social events and gatherings are also good for the depressed; try to participate in as much social activities as you can, you’ll find that it helps get your mind off those depressing things. If you have access to a support group for depressed people, it’s advisable to join them. There, you get to meet other depressed people who can offer you advice and share experiences with you.

2. CHALLENGE NEGATIVE THINKING
Depression puts a negative spin on everything, including the way you see yourself, the situations you encounter, and your expectations for the future.
But you can’t break out of this pessimistic mind frame by “just thinking positive.” Happy thoughts or wishful thinking won’t cut it. Rather, the trick is to replace negative thoughts with more balanced thoughts.
How do you challenge negative thinking?

Think outside yourself:
Ask yourself if you’d say what you’re thinking about yourself to someone else. If not, stop being so hard on yourself. Think about less harsh statements that offer more realistic descriptions.
Allow yourself to be less than perfect:
Many depressed people are perfectionists, holding themselves to impossibly high standards and then beating themselves up when they fail to meet them. Battle this source of self-imposed stress by challenging your negative ways of thinking.

Socialize with positive people:
Notice how people who always look on the bright side deal with challenges, even minor ones, like not being able to find a parking space. Then consider how you would react in the same situation. Even if you have to pretend, try to adopt their optimism and persistence in the face of difficulty.
3. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
In order to overcome depression, you have to take care of yourself. This includes following a healthy lifestyle, learning to manage stress, setting limits on what you’re able to do, adopting healthy habits, and scheduling fun activities into your day.
Aim for eight hours of sleep. Depression typically involves sleep problems. Whether you’re sleeping too little or too much, your mood suffers. Get on a better sleep schedule by learning healthy sleep habits.
Expose yourself to a little sunlight every day. Lack of sunlight can make depression worse. Make sure you’re getting enough. Take a short walk outdoors, have your coffee outside, enjoy an al fresco meal, people-watch on a park bench, or sit out in the garden. Aim for at least 15 minutes of sunlight a day to boost your mood. If you live somewhere with little sunshine, try using a light therapy box.
Keep stress in check. Not only does stress prolong and worsen depression, but it can also trigger it.  Figure out all the things in your life that stress you out. Examples include: work overload, unsupportive relationships, taking on too much or health problems. Once you’ve identified your stressors, you can make a plan to avoid them or minimise their impact.
Practice relaxation techniques. A daily relaxation practice can help relieve symptoms of depression, reduce stress, and boost feelings of joy and well-being. Try yoga, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation.

Do things you enjoy (or used to).
While you can’t force yourself to have fun or experience pleasure, you can choose to do things that you used to enjoy. Pick up a former hobby or a sport you used to like. Express through music, art, or writing. Go out with friends. Take a day trip to a museum, the mountains, or the ballpark.
Push yourself to do things, even when you don’t feel like it. You might be surprised at how much better you feel once you’re out in the world. Even if your depression doesn’t lift immediately, you’ll gradually feel more upbeat and energetic as you make time for fun activities.

4. EXERCISE MORE
When you’re depressed, exercising may be the last thing you feel like doing. But exercise is a powerful tool for dealing with depression. In fact, studies show that regular exercise can be as effective as antidepressant medication at increasing energy levels and decreasing feelings of fatigue.
Scientists haven’t figured out exactly why exercise is such a potent antidepressant, but evidence suggests that physical activity triggers new cell growth in the brain, increases mood-enhancing neurotransmitters and endorphins, reduces stress, and relieves muscle tension—all things that can have a positive effect on depression.
To gain the most benefits, aim for 30 minutes of exercise per day. You can start small, though, as short 10-minute bursts of activity can have a positive effect on your mood. Here are a few easy ways to get moving:
Take the stairs rather than the elevator.
Park your car in the farthest spot in the lot.
Take your dog for a walk.
Pair up with an exercise partner.
Walk while you’re talking on the phone.

As a next step, try incorporating walks or some other enjoyable easy form of exercise into your daily routine. The key is to pick an activity you enjoy, so you’re more likely to keep up with it.

5. KNOW WHEN TO GET PROFESSIONAL HELP
If you find your depression getting worse and worse, seek professional help. Needing additional help doesn’t mean you’re weak. Sometimes the negative thinking in depression can make you feel like you’re a lost cause, but depression can be treated and you can feel better!
Don’t forget about these self-help tips, though. Even if you’re receiving professional help, these tips can be part of your treatment plan, speeding your recovery and preventing depression from returning.
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If you’re the one wanting to break up with your partner, it can be tough having to deliver the message. Don’t we all wish we’d never have to speak those harsh words? But when your relationship has sunk to unhealthy depths, there might be no option left but to call it quits.Here are some tips to help you:
1. Do your homework. Know the reasons why you’re breaking up, because ifyou’re partner isn’t expecting this piece of bad news from you, you’ll end up doing a lot of explaining. So it’s good to go well-prepared. It also gives you an opportunity to reflect on your thoughts and see if a break up is what you really, really want.
2. Do it in person. Do not break up over email or SMS or telephone or Skype unless the situation demands it. Meeting someone for the last time before the relationship ends can offer a good way of closure, which is psychologically important to move on.
3. Do it in a place that’s comfortable for your partner. A crowded restaurant with a lot of strangers around might be intimidating. Pick a place that makes them feel safe enough to express their emotions.
4. Be honest. Don’t lie to your partner when you’re about to end the relationship. Tell them exactly what you felt was wrong in the relationship. This might be harsh on them but equally important for them to learn. At least they’d know where it all went wrong.
5. Don’t be cruel. Break-ups are terrible any way. So don’t go out of your way to make it more hurtful. Remember that you were once in love with this person. Being honest doesn’t mean you have to be vindictive and cruel. Try to deliver your truthful words in a nice package.
6. Don’t be ambiguous. Don’t leave your partner in doubt. If you don’t mean it, don’t tell them something like, “It’s not working out now, but it might work out another time.” That would wrongly make them hopeful.
7. Be prepared for the worst reaction. Being dumped is perhaps one of the worst things that can happen to anyone. So don’t be surprised if your partner starts shouting or cries or argues or just storms out on you. Be calm.
8. Don’t waver. Once you’ve made up your mind about breaking up, don’t change it. Your partner might convince you to give it “one last chance” but unless there’s any real reason why you should buy that argument, don’t fall for it. Stick to your guns
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Manchester United are winning the race to sign Liverpool target and Bayern Munich star Xherdan Shaqiri.

The Switzerland international has publicly criticised the German club and manager Pep Guardiola over a lack of playing time, and the ‘Alpine Messi’ is desperate to leave in January.
Both Louis Van Gaal and Brendan Rodgers were keen on signing Shaqiri over the summer as they looked to reshape their squads ahead of the Premier League campaign, but Bayern refused to sanction a departure for the 23-year-old.

However, reports claim that the Bundesliga champions have now told potential suitors to cough up £18million if they want to secure Shaqiri’s signature, and the Red Devils are ready to agree to Bayern’s terms.

Liverpool are yet to decide if they too will meet the demands, but after losing out to Arsenal for Barcelona’s Alexis Sanchez following the World Cup, Rodgers could yet convince Shaqiri that his future lies at Anfield.

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Giancarlo Stanton has agreed the most expensive ever deal in United States sport by signing a £208m ($325m) 13-year contract with Miami Marlins.

The new contract for the 25-year-old represented "a landmark day" for Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria.
The value of the deal makes it a record, although the £187m ($292m) 10-year contract signed by Detroit's Miguel Cabrera is worth more annually.
Stanton has hit a total of 154 home runs in five Major League seasons.
The American outfielder missed the final 17 games of last season after being struck in the face by a pitch but still hit 37 home runs in 2014, the most in the National League.

Stanton is carried off on a stretcher after being hit in the face

"I'm happy for the city, I'm happy for him and I'm thrilled for baseball," added Loria, who said the deal includes a no-trade clause and allows Stanton to opt out after six years.
"Besides being a terrific athlete, he's a first-class young man. I've loved watching him play, but I love this kid. He's just a special young man."

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Former world number one Tiger Woods has asked for an apology from veteran golf writer Dan Jenkins after being made the subject of a parody interview.

Jenkins, who has covered golf for more than 60 years, wrote the spoof for Golf Digest,  stating its fictitious nature.
He ridiculed the 14-times major winner's failed marriage and joked that the 38-year-old enjoyed firing people and disliked paying tips.
Woods described it as a "grudge-fuelled piece of character assassination."
Jenkins, 84, who has reported on more than 200 majors, said he wrote the piece because he has never been granted an exclusive interview with Woods, who has not played since August because of injury.
Woods countered: "I like to think I have a good sense of humour, and that I'm more than willing to laugh at myself.
"Good-natured satire is one thing, but no fair-minded writer would put someone in the position of having to publicly deny that he mistreats his friends, takes pleasure in firing people and stiffs on tips - and a lot of other slurs, too."
Woods' agent Mark Steinberg, who was mentioned in the fake interview, has written to Golf Digest asking for an apology.
However, Jenkins wrote on Twitter:  "My next column for Tiger: defining parody and satire. I thought I let him off easy".

Jenkins's 'fake' interview with Tiger Woods
Q: Why haven't you fired Steiny (agent Mark Steinberg), by the way? You've fired everybody else... A: I'll probably get around to it. I like to fire people. It gives me something to do when I'm not shaping my shots.
Q: You haven't talked about it, but after all of those New York Post front pages during the scandal, what's the moral of your story? A: That's easy. Don't get caught.
Q: You named your yacht Privacy. Because you're a worldwide celebrity, do you really expect and demand privacy? A: I thought about renaming it Serenity, but that pretty much went out the door when the 9-iron hit the window of the Escalade.
Q: I don't get it. For a guy who can certainly afford it, you've become famous for being a bad tipper. It's almost like you take pride in it. A: I just don't understand why you're supposed to tip people for doing a job they're already getting paid to do.
Q: In many cases tips are expected to be part of their salary...? A: So let 'em go find a better job.

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A Football Association official asked the England supporters' band to stop playing during the win over Scotland after it inadvertently provided background music to anti-IRA singing.

As the band played Follow England Away - a song it regularly performs - some of the 5,000 away fans began the anti-IRA chant.

Manager Roy Hodgson said: "I didn't have a clue what they were chanting.
"If anyone was offended, I'm sure the FA would like to apologise to them."
An FA official contacted the band during the first half to ask it to stop playing the song because it was providing the tune for the offensive singing.

England band leader John Hemmingham has also apologised for any offence caused but stressed the musicians were unaware of the issue.
He explained: "All the fans around us were singing Follow England Away. It was only when a band member saw on Twitter that some people were saying we were playing anti-IRA songs that we became aware.

"Then we immediately stopped and played something else."
He also insisted it was the band who brought the issue to the attention of the FA, and not the other way round.
Hodgson added: "I don't condone it. Hopefully they will behave themselves and not get themselves into a situation where their chanting is being criticised."

Police Scotland reported no football-related disorder in the immediate aftermath of the match and said they had not received any reports of offensive chants.
England won the match 3-1 with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain putting them ahead before Wayne Rooney scored either side of Andrew Robertson's goal for Scotland.
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Reigning champions Nigeria will be desperate to emerge from the final round of 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying on Wednesday with one of the six remaining spots for the tournament.

With 10 countries already qualified for the 17 January to 8 February showpiece in Equatorial Guinea , five more will join them as one of the top two teams in the groups, while one more will go through as the best third-placed side.

Nigeria's campaign has besieged by problems both on and off the field, which has put them in serious danger of failing to earn the right to defend their title.
But they go into their final match against already-qualified South Africa with their fate in their own hands after they beat Congo 2-0 on Saturday.
 
"It was not an easy game against a very determined Congo side, but luck was on our side. We took a big step forward (by this win)," said coach Stephen Keshi, who will be without Reading midfielder Hope Akpan, who dislocated his shoulder in Congo, and the suspended Godfrey Oboabona.

Wednesday's Afcon qualifiers

• Group D
• Ivory Coast v Cameroon (14:00)
• DR Congo v Sierra Leone (14:00)
• Group B
• Ethiopia v Malawi (16:00)
• Mali v Algeria (16:00)
• Group E
• Ghana v Togo (16:00)
• Guinea v Uganda (16:00)
• Group F
• Niger v Mozambique (16:00)
• Zambia v Cape Verde (16:00)
• Group A
• Nigeria v South Africa (17:00)
• Sudan v Congo (17:00)
• Group C
• Burkina Faso v Angola (18:00)
• Gabon v Lesotho (18:00)
• Group G
• Senegal v Botswana (20:00)
• Tunisia v Egypt (20:00)
• All times GMT

"We know what to expect from South Africa. They are in a confident mood after winning the group and qualifying. They have never beaten Nigeria in a competitive game so they will come here with a determination to break that record but we are prepared. 

"Now we must do everything to get the three points and qualify for the Nations Cup."
South Africa are unbeaten in their five qualifying matches under coach Ephraim 'Shakes' Mashaba.
But the Bafana Bafana boss is wary of what awaits them in the southern town of Uyo.

"Going back to Nigeria will be war, it won't be just an ordinary football match," said Mashaba, whose side were held 0-0 by the Super Eagles in Cape Town.
"Nigeria never expected to draw with us, and we should've beaten them, on the day luck was just not on our side."
Third-placed Congo, who last featured at the Nations Cup 14 years ago, will go through as the best third-place side if they win in Sudan.
Guinea blew open Group E after they trounced Togo 4-1 in Lome at the weekend, and now have to overcome Uganda by more than 2-0 in their final match at home to book their ticket to the final.
The match will be played in Morocco because of the severity of the outbreak of the Ebola virus in Guinea.
Both Uganda and Guinea now have seven points, but Uganda are ahead on the head-to-head rule after they beat the Syli Nationale 2-0 in Kampala in September.
The President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni has passed on a message to the team, via a phone call with coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic.
"Don't panic. Don't play under any pressure. Ugandans are proud of you. Qualify and be part of history," said President Museveni, who also gave Micho some tactical advice.

2015 Africa Cup of Nations finalists
Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Equatorial Guinea (as hosts), Gabon, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia and Zambia.

He added: "Our boys need to position well during corner kicks because in the games against Ethiopia and Ghana, we got two goals from such set pieces."

The Cranes were surprise victors over Ghana last time out but the Black Stars still top the table and only need to draw with visiting Togo in Tamale to advance.
"We have to go all out in that game and I am sure we will qualify for the Nations Cup," said Everton forward Christian Atsu.

Asamoah Gyan has resumed training after a knee injury and Jordan Ayew will return after suspension but older brother Andre Ayew suffered a thigh injury in Uganda and has been ruled out of the match.
It is a straight fight between the Ivory Coast and Democratic Republic of Congo for the remaining automatic qualification from Group D after a second-half strike by Vincent Aboubakar against DR Congo in Yaounde gave Cameroon an unassailable 13 points.

Ivory Coast are on nine points, three points clear of DR Congo, and will now need at least a draw at home in Abidjan against Cameroon to guarantee their place.
The Elephants fell 4-2 in Cameroon three months ago in a very entertaining clash.
And DR Congo skipper Youssouf Mulumbu, whose side will face eliminated bottom club Sierra Leone, said they have not given up hope of the results going their way on Wednesday.

Adama Tamboura (right) in action for Mali against Algeria

"We still believe in qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations. Our chances have been reduced, but I still keep faith," said the West Brom midfielder.
Mali, Malawi and Ethiopia will jostle for another ticket in Group B, which has already been won by on-form Algeria.
The Eagles of Mali are second with six points and welcome Algeria to Bamako, while Malawi, who also have six points but an inferior goal difference, square up against bottom team Ethiopia, who are on three points.

Mali have only to beat Algeria, who boast a perfect record after five rounds of matches, to seal qualification.
They will be without Wolves midfielder Bakary Sako and Bordeaux striker Cheick Tidiane Diabate.
Despite those absences - and their 1-0 defeat by Algeria in September - defender Adama Tamboura is confident his team can progress.

"The first game against Algeria was a good game, but the goal they scored was offside. Now we play at home and I'm very sure we can win, then we are through," he said.
Even bottom team Ethiopia have an outside chance if they beat Malawi by at least two clear goals and Mali lose at home to Algeria.

Malawi are also in contention should they beat Ethiopia by a big score after they defeated them 3-2 at home in September.
They will go up to nine points and have cancelled out Mali on the head-to-head after they reversed a 2-0 loss in Bamako three months ago by also beating the West Africans 2-0 in Malawi on Saturday.
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McLaren are to delay the announcement of their 2015 driver line-up until December as they decide who should partner Fernando Alonso.

McLaren chairman Ron Dennis has to decide between existing team drivers Jenson Button and Kevin Magnussen.

The team said on its Twitter account: "We know you're awaiting news on our driver line-up. We'll announce after 1 December - you'll hear it here first."
Double world champion Alonso's move from Ferrari is yet to be announced.
Dennis had been leaning towards retaining Magnussen, 22, who is coming to the end of his first season in Formula 1.

But 2009 world champion Button lies seventh in the world championship standings with 106 points, compared to the 55 of Denmark's Magnussen.
McLaren said in a statement that the delay was because "selecting the optimal driver line-up for a Formula 1 team is clearly an important process, and it is therefore one that requires precise and prolonged analysis".

The team said that they wanted to avoid any distraction from achieving the best possible result at the final grand prix of the season in Abu Dhabi this weekend.
McLaren have an outside chance of beating Ferrari to fourth place in the constructors' championship.
They are 41 points behind the Italian team, with a maximum of 86 available for teams because of the award of double points in Abu Dhabi.
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A German player should win the 2014 Ballon d'Or after their World Cup success in Brazil, says Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are tipped to be the main contenders, with United's Angel Di Maria also nominated for the world's best player award. 
"You always have to win something and the best thing to win is the World Championship," Van Gaal told MUTV.

"I hope it shall be a German player because they deserve it."
He added: "In Germany, the level of the matches in the Bundesliga is also very high."
The 63-year-old, who as Netherlands coach led his side to the World Cup semi-finals, also said he was surprised to have been nominated in the coach of the year category at the Fifa awards, which take place in January 2015.

Van Gaal took over as United manager in the summer, charged with revitalising the Old Trafford club after a disappointing 2013-14 campaign that saw David Moyes sacked after 10 months in charge, but United took just 13 points from their opening 10 games - their worst start to a league campaign since 1986.
"It's unbelievable when you see the results of Manchester United - it's unbelievable," Van Gaal said.

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Formula 1 driver Jules Bianchi is no longer in an artificial coma and is breathing unaided, his parents have said in a statement.

The Marussia driver, 25, suffered severe head injuries when he crashed in wet conditions into a recovery vehicle at the Japanese GP on 5 October.
The Frenchman has been flown from hospital in Yokkaichi to intensive care in Nice, where he arrived earlier.

However his condition is still "critical" and he remains unconscious.
"Almost seven weeks after Jules' accident at Suzuka Circuit, and following a challenging period of neurological intensive care, we are able to announce Jules has made an important step," his parents Philippe and Christine Bianchi said.

"His treatment now enters a new phase concerned with the improvement of his brain function.
"Although the situation continues to be serious, and may remain so, it was decided that Jules was sufficiently stable to be repatriated to his native France."
They said they were "relieved" to confirm their son had been transferred to Le Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, "where he arrived just a short time ago".

Formula 1's drivers paid tribute to Jules Bianchi before the Russian Grand Prix a week after the crash

Bianchi suffered a diffuse axonal injury  when he crashed into a tractor vehicle at Suzuka that was recovering Adrian Sutil's Sauber.
The Marussia team ran with one car the following week at the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi, where Lewis Hamilton dedicated his win to Bianchi.
His parents praised the "outstanding care" Bianchi received following the accident from doctors at the Mie General Medical Centre in Yokkaichi, adding they owed "an enormous debt of gratitude".
"We are thankful the next phase of Jules' treatment can continue close to home, where he can be surrounded and supported by his wider family and friends," they said.

Since the crash, Formula 1's governing body the FIA has begun working on a plan for a 'virtual safety car' to force drivers to slow for warning flags in an accident zone.
Drivers tested such a car following first practice for the US Grand Prix on 31 October, however the system cannot be implemented immediately because of the complexity of the cars
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Arsenal are back in the hunt for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema after making him a top target ahead of the January transfer window.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has made no secret of his interest in Benzema, having reportedly tried to sign him in each of the last three transfer windows.
And now reports say the Frenchman will try again in the new year, having made Benzema a top target in Arsenal’s hunt for a new striker.

Liverpool are also keen on Benzema, who is rated at about £40million, and they’re also eyeing up a move when the window re-opens.
Madrid are reluctant to do business without having a replacement lined up, but Arsenal do enjoy a great relationship with them – which could prove to be crucial in any deal.
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Reigning champions Nigeria will not defend their title in Equatorial Guinea after failing to qualify from Group A.

In Wednesday's final round of matches, Nigeria were held 2-2 by South Africa in Uyo, meaning they finished outside of their group's top two automatic qualification spots with eight points - a total that also put them out of the running to be the best third-placed team.
South Africa had already assured their place at the tournament, which will be played from 17 January to 8 February, and only one spot is still outstanding.
Congo Brazzaville, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Guinea, Mali and DR Congo all claimed their tickets to the continent's showpiece event with their results on Wednesday.

2015 Africa Cup of Nations finalists
Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Congo Brazzaville, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea (as hosts), Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Mali, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia and Zambia.

Group A

Wednesday's results

• Group D
• Ivory Coast 0-0 Cameroon
• DR Congo 3-1 Sierra Leone
• Group B
• Ethiopia 0-0 Malawi
• Mali 2-0 Algeria
• Group E
• Ghana 3-1 Togo
• Guinea 2-0 Uganda
• Group F
• Niger 1-1 Mozambique
• Zambia 1-0 Cape Verde
• Group A
• Nigeria 2-2 South Africa
• Sudan 0-1 Congo
• Group C
• Burkina Faso 1-1 Angola
• Gabon 4-2 Lesotho
• Group G
• Senegal 3-0 Botswana
• Tunisia 2-1 Egypt

Nigeria went into the game against South Africa with their fate in their own hands - win and they would claim second spot in the table and a place in the finals alongside group winners Bafana Bafana.

But the Super Eagles blew their chance to prevent a troubled campaign from turning disastrous, even though they fought back from two goals down to finish with a draw.
The writing was on the wall for Stephen Keshi's side, who have been plagued by both on and off the pitch problems, when Tokelo Rantie scored a goal either side of half-time to put the visitors firmly in control.
Sone Aluko pulled a goal back on 68 minutes and Nigerian hopes were raised further when South Africa's Renielwe Letsholonyane was sent off.
In added time Aluko levelled the scores but it was too late for the home side and they once more miss out on playing in Equatorial Guinea, as they did when the country co-hosted the tournament in 2012.
Instead, the runners-up spot in the table - and a place in the finals - was secured by Congo, who beat Sudan 1-0.
Igor Nganga struck the only goal of the game after 63 minutes.

Group B

Mali made it through to the finals with a 2-0 win over Algeria, who had already won the group and booked their place.
Seydou Keita scored from the penalty spot, picking himself up to take it after he had been fouled by Carl Medjani, to give his side the lead after 29 minutes.
The advantage was doubled early into the second half when Mustapha Yatabare converted.
It was the first defeat of the campaign for Algeria, who made several changes to their starting line-up, and brought to an end the Desert Foxes' prefect record.
In the group's other match, Malawi and Ethiopia drew 0-0 - a result that ended both sides' chances of making it to the final.

Group C

Both Burkina Faso and Gabon had already qualified from the group, so the only bearing their matches had was to see who would end up as group winners. That accolade went to Gabon who beat Lesotho 4-2 in Libreville.
Burkina Faso were held to a 1-1 draw by Angola in Ouagadougou. A Djalma Campos penlaty put Angola ahead, with Jonathan Pitroipa equalising for hosts on the stroke of half-time also from the penalty spot.

Group D

Gervinho (front) was heavily involved for Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast needed only a point from their meeting Cameroon, who had already won the group before the game, and the pair played out a goalless draw.
Cameroon played the last 30 minutes with 10 men following the sending off of Stephane Mbia.
The Indomitable Lions captain was shown a straight red card for a foul on Gervinho on the edge of the area.
From the resultant free-kick, Yaya Toure's shot was headed off the line - the closest either side came to breaking the deadlock.

In the other match DR Congo came from a goal behind to beat visiting Sierra Leone 3-1.
The Leone Stars, who began the match knowing they had no chance of qualifying for the finals, opened the scoring on 35 minutes with a long-range effort from outside the area.
Crystal Palace midfielder Yannick Bolasie drew the sides level just before half-time when he controlled the ball on his chest and smashed home from outside the box.
Sierra Leone conceded a penalty on 62 minutes, having a man sent off as a result, and Cedric Mongongu stepped up to put the Leopards ahead.
Bolasie then scored a second to seal the win - and with Egypt losing against Tunisia later on Wednesday it meant DR Congo qualified as one of the best third-placed sides.

Group E

Wakaso scored a sensational goal from long distance to put Ghana 2-0 up

Ghana clinched top place in the group as they comfortably beat Togo 3-1.
Celtic's Mubarak Wakaso crossed for Abdul Majeed Waris to head home for Ghana's opener.
Provider Wakaso then turned goalscorer, belting in a 35-yard shot into the top-right corner to double his side's advantage.
After the break, Floyd Ayite pulled a goal back for the visitors but the Black Stars made sure of victory when Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu made it 3-1 on 69 minutes.
The other automatic qualification spot in the group went to Guinea, who beat Uganda 2-0 in their winner-takes-all clash.
Borussia Monchengladbach's Ibrahima Traore set them on their way with a curling free-kick.
Thirteen minutes after the interval Ugandan skipper Andrew Mwesigwa was sent off when he conceded a penalty and Seydouba Soumah made no mistake from the spot.
Guinea's qualification comes despite them not being able to play any of their group matches at home because of the severity of the outbreak of Ebola in their country.
In addition, some of the players had to go against the wishes of their clubs to be able to play in the qualification matches.

Group F

With Cape Verde having already sewn up top place in the group and Zambia qualified as runners-up before Wednesday's final round of matches, they went head-to-head little at stake.
It took 77 minutes for Roland Kampamba to break the deadlock and that goal proved to be the only one of the game as Chipolopolo ended their campaign with a 1-0 win.
Niger and Mozambique drew 1-1 to finish fourth and third in the group, respectively.
Antonio Alberto Diogo opened the scoring for Mozambique but with only seven minutes remaining Niger salvaged a point.

Group G

Mohamed Salah gave Egypt hope with an early goal before they lost 2-1 to Tunisia

Tunisia and Senegal had already qualified from Group G before the final round of games were played.
Senegal comfortably won 3-0 against Botswana, who finished the campaign with just one solitary point.
Egypt needed to defeat Tunisia by two clear goals to clinch a place as a third-placed finisher but lost 2-1, with DR Congo claiming the 16th and final qualifying spot.
Chelsea winger Mohamed Salah boosted Egypt's hopes early on with a goal in the 15th minute. But Tunisia fought back, first through Yassine Chikhaoui in the 53rd minute, and then with an 81st minute winner from Wahbi Khazri, leaving the seven times former champions to miss out on qualification.
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Manchester United’s Portuguese duo Nani and Anderson might not have been everyone’s cup of tea at Old Trafford but they certainly helped morale in the dressing room.
Both still on the books but away from the club, their memory lives on.
Marouane Fellaini and Adnan Januzaj, in a club Q&A, revealed what they brought to the dressing room at Old Trafford.

The Belgium duo quizzed each other on all things from birthday dates, football heroes and Fellaini reckons Anderson brought down the house with his sense of humour.
“Ando,” he replied when Januzaj asked who was funniest at Old Trafford.
“How he talks, how he dresses, how he explained things.”
And Nani, on loan at Sporting Lisbon and in danger of angering United fans for his tackle on Angel Di maria, is the best dancer according to Januzaj.
“I’d say Fellaini,” Januzaj said to start with when asked by his compatriot before continuing, “No I don’t know to be honest I’ve never seen someone dancing here – I’d say Nani but, I don’t know now.”
The former Everton star also admitted his biggest strength was his physically and heading.
While Januzaj said his footballing heroEes were Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane and Juan Roman Riquelme.
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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that striker Olivier Giroud is available for selection in Saturday’s Premier League clash against Manchester United.
The French forward, who was Arsenal’s leading scorer last season with 22 goals, has not played since breaking his leg in a 2-2 draw at Everton in August.
It was feared that the 28-year-old would be out of action until the New Year, but his recovery has been quicker than anticipated.

“He is three or four weeks ahead of schedule,” Wenger told Arsenal.com. “Originally we planned to have him back for competition at the beginning of next year. So he’s one month ahead.”
In Giroud’s absence, the Gunners have relied on summer signings Danny Welbeck and Alexis Sanchez as their main attacking outlets.
Wenger is pleased to have Giroud back in the fold as the former Montpellier frontman gives him a ‘different option’.
“We have Giroud back, we have [Theo] Walcott back. Slowly they will integrate into the team again and give us different options,” he said.
Arsenal could also welcome captain Mikel Arteta back this weekend. The Spanish midfielder missed the 2-1 defeat at Swansea City with a hamstring strain.
Wenger added: “Giroud and Arteta are both available. It’s just a question of how ready they are. But they are available.”
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Vincent Kompany’s agent has revealed why his client didn’t move to Arsenal in 2006, telling reporters that he felt that the Belgium international was not ready to move to a top club.
Kompany instead moved to Hamburg, where he stayed for two seasons before heading to the Premier League with Manchester City, and the City captain’s agent has spilled the beans on why he turned down moves to Arsenal, Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Jacques Lichtenstein, the 28-year-old’s agent since his Anderlecht days, has spoken about the failed 2006 move, saying that it was not the right time.

“I had meetings with Emilio Butragueno at Real Madrid, the club leaders at Barcelona and by Arsene Wenger himself at Arsenal,” Lichtenstein opened, before outlining the reasons he chose Hamburg instead.
“But heading to an absolute top club immediately was not the right solution because Vincent is someone who feels alone in an environment where he is not properly valued.
“Vincent is not a third or fourth choice. In Hamburg that was not the case. He was the biggest transfer in the history of the club.
“The basis of his success is his values, both within his family and with his friends. That’s the difference between him and other extremely talented footballers, guys who will never rise to become captain of Manchester City and Belgium.”
The move appears to have since been justified, with Kompany winning two Premier League titles since his move to Manchester and becoming captain of both his club and country.
This season he has played in ten of City’s 11 Premier League games, although has only been able to help them to third place in the table. Eight points behind leaders Chelsea, City have six wins and three draws from their opening 11 games and next face Swansea on Saturday.
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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger reported good news when he spoke about injured defenders Mathieu Debuchy and Laurent Koscielny on Thursday.
The French international will both miss Saturday’s game against Manchester United with ankle and calf problems respectively.

However, both are recovering well and should return to action in December.
Wenger told Arsenal.com: “Koscielny and Debuchy are doing well, they are out on the field [working] again.
“We have to see now. Usually field work is three weeks away from full group training. Then there is fitness.
“It looks straightforward for Debuchy. It’s not inflammation, it’s just repairing surgery. For Koscielny, it depends how well he responds to training. At the moment he looks good.”
Olivier Giroud and Mikel are available to face United, but Mesut Ozil will remain on the sidelines until the New Year.
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