Henin triumphs

CHARLEROI: Belgium’s former world No 1 Justine Henin made a winning return after an 18-month absence with victory over compatriot Kirsten Flipkens in an exhibition match here on Saturday. Henin overcame a tentative start to win 6-4, 6-4 and will contest in final of the ‘Women Tennis Trophy’ against the winner of the match between Italy’s Flavia Pennetta and France’s Alize Cornet. The 27-year-old is due to make her official return to the WTA circuit in the Brisbane tournament that starts on January 3 next year, 15 days before the Australian Open in Melbourne. Henin announced her retirement from top-level tennis in May 2008 after winning seven Grand Slam titles and spending a total of 117 weeks at the top of the women’s rankings.

United eye Dzeko

MANCHESTER: Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan has hinted that theycould make a move to sign Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko. Dzeko, 23, has been linked with a host of top clubs from around Europe since helping Wolfsburg win the German league title last season. The Bosnian, who has 14 goals in 23 appearances for his country, scored against United when the sides met in the Champions League earlier this season and Phelan has admitted the club have been looking at him since because he has the ideal style for the English game.

Newcastle extend lead

LONDON: Newcastle moved four points clear at the top of the Championship after a 2-0 win over Watford on Saturday. Newcastle took advantage of second-placed West Bromwich Albion’s 2-2 draw at Derby to cement their position as automatic promotion favourites. Newcastle lead through Peter Lovenkrands in the 20th minute. Any nerves in the St James’ Park were eased in the 83rd minute when Fabrice Pancrate produced a stunning strike to extend Newcastle’s winning run to six matches.