From the back pages, May 5: Manchester United get backing for big-name signing.. with Bale, Modric and Ronaldo on list

At least eight professional footballers have revealed to colleagues that they are gay, but have refused to go public because they fear a backlash from fans. (The Guardian)

Luis Suarez has confirmed he will stay at Liverpool. The striker, 26, was thought to be quitting Anfield after his 10-match ban for biting Chelsea star Branislav Ivanovic. (The Sun)

“We have a score from Vicarage Road…” the PA announcer shrieked. “It’s Watford one...” he paused. “Leeds United two!” Some erupted, some stared ahead disbelievingly and others flooded the pitch. Every single one of the Hull City supporters celebrated in their own way, but none could quite fathom what they had witnessed in front of them on Humberside. (The Independent)

A remarkable week for Gareth Bale was rounded off in style by the Welshman yesterday when he fired Spurs to a last-gasp win over Southampton. (Express)

A year ago this month Paul Lambert was hailed by both these sets of fans. Norwich City supporters were delighted with the way he had taken them from League One to Barclays Premier League consolidation. Meanwhile the travelling Villa fans made it clear that they wanted him as their new manager in place of Alex McLeish and their wish was granted. Today at Carrow Road his reception was somewhat different. (The Times)

Floyd Mayweather Jnr came out of prison to elevate boxing to an art. To describe this maestro simply as the welterweight champion of the world is to do him an enormous disservice of understatement. To call him the best boxer on the planet is closer to reality but Mayweather transcends that comparison, also. (Daily Mail)