Football: United call off player search

Manchester United have abandoned the search for new players before the deadline for Uefa competitions. Only players signed before tomorrow can play in the later stages of this season's European competitions.

The Leeds striker Rod Wallace has turned down a move to Middlesbrough. The clubs had agreed a fee of pounds 1.5m.

Neil Ruddock has turned down a loan move from Liverpool to Tranmere Rovers .

Richard Edghill has rejected a lucrative new deal with Manchester City. The former England under-21 right back has joined German striker Uwe Rosler in snubbing the club and both could leave for nothing.

The breakaway group in Scotland received a double boost yesterday when another two clubs outside the top flight backed their plans to establish a new Premiership in Scotland. Clydebank have joined Ross County in supporting the creation of a Scottish Premiership.