SPORTING DIGEST: Football

Stewart Kerr, the third-choice Celtic goalkeeper, has announced his intention to leave Parkhead. The 24-year-old was overlooked for the Scottish Cup final in May, when Jonathan Gould returned from injury.

New Zealand and Australia are preparing a joint bid to host the 2010 World Cup.

Undefeated Japan beat the Philippines 11-0 yesterday in Group 6 of the Asian Olympic qualifying round. As the winner of the five-team group, Japan has secured a place in the second and final qualifying round.