News about Lassana Diarra

A dramatic late 3-2 comeback win over Barnsley sealed the League One title for Pompey as they returned to the second-tier for the first time in 12 years. Video footage from a bird's eye view above the stadium shows thousands of fans running onto the pitch at Fratton Park. Blue flares can also be seen getting lit as the jubilant fans embrace and hug their heroic players. Promotion marks a huge turning point in the club's history, who were relegated from the Championship in 2012 after receiving a 10-point deduction for entering administration for the second time in two years.

CRAIG HOPE: Sam Allardyce did not know he was fired as Newcastle's boss. A grey Wednesday in January 2008, when a letter was sent from the club's training ground that he was urgent for a meeting with chairman Chris Mort at St James' Park. Assuming it was transfer company, he needed Arsenal's Lassana Diarra and Manchester United's Wes Brown, and Manchester United's Wes Brown got a lift from a member of staff around town. On reflection, the compact car was missing a wheel trim, which was a low budget item. Allardyce was still wearing his club tracksuit and a gold chain around his neck. In the boardroom, however, he was holding a golden handshake. Not that Allardyce felt like yelling anyone's hand. He was stunned after just eight months, 24 games, and with the team 11th in the Premier League. Mort said they'd sort the exact details of severance later, but Allardyce, as was his right, refused to move. Now, after five hours and by phone calls to lawyers in London, terms were agreed.