Football

Steve Parkin was appointed manager of Third Division Mansfield Town yesterday, making him the Nationwide League's youngest manager. The 30-year-old former Stoke and West Bromwich midfielder had been caretaker manager since Andy King's departure at the end of August.

Mike Newell, the former Blackburn striker, has asked Birmingham for a transfer after only 70 days at St Andrews. Manager Trevor Francis is expected to discuss the situation with Newell today.

The former Netherlands player Johan Neeskens has been appointed assistant coach to the Dutch national team.