Football in brief: McCarthy refuses to take on Barton

Wolves manager mick McCarthy is refusing to be drawn into a row with QPR midfielder Joey Barton and "will not dignify any of his comments with a response". Barton launched a a verbal attack on McCarthy and Wolves midfielder Karl Henry after QPR's 3-0 win at Molineux on Saturday.

Barton accused Henry of "trying to hurt people" and added "don't know what Mick has been smoking" after reports he had rejected the chance to sign him.

McCarthy was quick to defend Henry's reputation and of Barton he said: "I have my opinions but generally I keep them to myself. Opinions are like backsides. We've all got them but it is not always wise to air them in public."

Houllier 'probably' won't manage again

Gerard Houllier has confirmed he is unlikely to return to management, revealing he has only "85 per cent" recovered from his latest heart scare.

Houllier, 63, was forced to quit Aston Villa after one season in charge after being admitted to hospital in April suffering from chest pains. He said yesterday: "I've got to admit the fact that, probably, I won't go back into management."

Matthaus sacked after poor results

Lothar Matthaus was yesterday sacked as Bulgaria coach after a dismal Euro 2012 qualifying campaign. Bulgaria have taken just five points from seven games and most recently suffered resounding defeats against England and Switzerland. The Bulgarian Football Union president, Borislav Mihailov, said: "There were many reasons to release Matthaus, not only the poor results... Pressure and negativity had also piled up in the squad."

Mourinho pledges award for Sir Bobby

Jose Mourinho has donated his most prestigious personal trophy to be auctioned in memory of his mentor Sir Bobby Robson.

The Real Madrid manager has given his Fifa Ballon D'Or World Coach of the Year award, he won with Internazionale in 2010, to an online charity auction taking place next month.