QUOTES OF THE WEEK

n After games I've been laying in the bath for 20 minutes, asking myself why it isn't going for me, why things aren't happening. Southampton's Matthew Le Tissier, hoping for brighter times after his England recall.

n The players have got to go away and play against a crowd that can be quite intimidating, so there is going to be a mental difference. We have to be more focused in what we do. New England coach Glenn Hoddle on Sunday's opening World Cup qualifier in Moldova.

n I told the lads that this would be our hardest season ever because the influx of foreign players would mean we would no longer steamroller certain teams the way we used to. Wimbledon manager Joe Kinnear after his side's 1-0 defeat at Leeds - their third loss in as many Premiership games.

n In this last Test I think we have let him [captain Michael Atherton] down a bit, and our challenge now is to put together a bowling attack which will test the opposition and be capable of taking 20 wickets in a match for us. England coach David Lloyd looks back over the third Test defeat by Pakistan.

n I think we have had a fantastic season and it will be even bigger and better next year. Rugby Football League chief executive Maurice Lindsay singing the praises of Super League.

n It shows how sport can affect the mood of a community. I think this is the biggest shot in the arm that the town has had for many a decade. David Howes, chief executive of inaugural Super League champions St Helens.

n It's number one in my priorities. Once you have been in the Ryder Cup team you want to be in it for ever. It is the greatest golf tournament there is, including the majors. Sam Torrance, seeking a ninth consecutive Ryder Cup appearance.

n This is a world title fight, not a talk show. Naseem can do all the talking he likes, but the only place that matters is in the ring. Titles are won and lost by punches, not words. Mexican Manuel Medina, who will attempt to take Naseem Hamed's World Boxing Organisation featherweight title in Dublin today.

n I'd only be 38 in four years' time. That isn't too old and Sydney is a dream for me. British rower Steve Redgrave considers bidding for a fifth successive Olympic gold.

n The lead is not what I would describe as being comfortable but it's a lead that I am grateful to have and I am still looking forward to going to Monza. Damon Hill, 13 points ahead of Williams team-mate Jacques Villeneuve in the race for Formula One's world drivers' championship.