Football in brief: Webb makes referees’ list for South Africa

World Cup: Howard Webb has been included in the list of 30 referees for the World Cup in South Africa this year, Fifa confirmed yesterday.

The 38-year-old from Rotherham, who will be assisted by Darren Cann and Michael Mullarkey, has been chosen from an initial list of 54 by the governing body’s Referees Committee. It will be the former police officer’s first World Cup. Sweden’s Martin Hansson, who failed to spot Thierry Henry’s handball in the build-up to France’s play-off winner against the Republic of Ireland, has also been included on the list.

Johnson ruled out for season after surgery

Fulham: Striker Andrew Johnson will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery in the United States. The 28-year-old had the operation in Colorado by specialist Dr Richard Steadman. "Andrew will not be available for the remainder of the current season," a club statement read.

"Following the prognosis, the club expects Andrew to take part in the latter part of pre-season in readiness for the new season." After scoring 10 goals in his first season at the Cottagers, Johnson has struggled for form and fitness, making just 13 appearances and scoring three goals.