Ones to watch

MATTHEW HAYDEN 

The 38-year old has been given a final chance by the Australian cricket selectors to rescue his international career in the third Test against South Africa this weekend. With the Proteas already having clinched the series, the pressure is off and he will need to find form quickly else it could be the end of the road for one of the world's great opening batsman.

STEVEN GERRARD 

After being arrested and charged with assault last week, the Liverpool captain has to focus once again on helping his side win the Premier League. The midfielder has been in sublime form so far this season, but that may all change after his police ordeal – despite him receiving full backing from Reds manager Rafa Benitez and the club.

AMERICAN FOOTBALL WILDCARD MATCHES

The national Football League play-offs kick off today with San Diego playing Indianapolis and Arizona taking on Atlanta. Tomorrow, Miami will face Baltimore while Minnesota clash with Philadelphia.

MARK HUGHES 

The Manchester City manager has a lengthy shopping list and lots and lots of cash – but he only has one month to make his purchases. With his Abu Dhabi United Group-owned club providing him with an unlimited transfer budget for January, the football world waits in anticipation to see which big name stars will be lured to Eastlands by the Welshman.

NASSER AL-ATTIYAH

The Qatari driver, who won the 2008 UAE Desert Challenge, will be in action at the two-week Dakar Rally. The race, which starts today, will take place in Argentina and Chile this year.

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