Dugarry forced out of action

Enforced substitution
The French striker has been struggling with the problem for several weeks and had to be substituted during Birmingham's 1-0 opening-day win against Tottenham Hotspur FC on Saturday. "Christophe has been troubled by a niggling injury to his knee for some time," said Birmingham manager Steve Bruce. "This operation will hopefully solve the problem and we expect him to be out for three to four weeks."

Wages deferred
In Spain, players from Athletic Club Bilbao have agreed to forgo 15 per cent of their salaries from last season to help the club's economic situation. Bilbao said in a statement on Monday that the agreement would enable them to reduce the club's deficit by €1.8m. The players could yet be paid in full for the 2002/03 campaign, depending on Athletic's performance this term.

Loan extension
Staying in the Primera División, Valencia CF midfield player Líbero Parri will spend the coming season on loan at newly promoted Albacete Balompié. The 21-year-old also played for the club last season.

Batistuta boost
Former Argentinian international striker Gabriel Batistuta has signed for Al-Arabi Sports Club, agreeing a two-year contract with the Qatari club that will include coaching duties. "I saw a big challenge in Qatar and that was the main reason behind opting for this offer. I would like to give my best and score as many goals as possible for my new team," Batistuta said. "I would have loved to finish my career in Argentina, but it does not seem likely now."

Dubourdeau delight
Finally, Scottish Premier League side Kilmarnock FC have recruited goalkeeper François Dubourdeau until the end of the year. The 22-year-old was released by Motherwell FC at the end of last term and has clinched a deal that will keep him at Rugby Park until 31 December.