Express and Star: Paul Lambert today hailed the commitment of his new players following a second pre-season friendly victory in the early hours of this morning. Villa opened their US tour with a 1-0 win at Philadelphia Union courtesy of a first-half goal by Nathan Delfouneso.

Setanta Sports: Paul Lambert has confirmed that he isn't interested in taking Michael Owen to Aston Villa following his release from Manchester United. The Villa chief was said to be embroiled in a battle with Everton and Stoke for the former England international, who departed Old Trafford when his contract expired at the end of June.

talkSPORT: Aston Villa have ruled themselves out of the running to sign Manchester United striker Michael Owen. The 32-year-old former England star says he is weighing up offers from several clubs after being told he can leave Old Trafford and admits he is unwilling to move down the divisions.

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BBC Sport: Tottenham defender Ledley King has retired from professional football but will remain at Spurs in an ambassadorial role. The former England international, 31, has struggled with injuries for a number of years and has been unable to train on a daily basis.

Sky Sports: Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed his interest in Swansea midfielder Joe Allen but claims no negotiations are currently taking place. Former Liberty Stadium boss Rodgers has already taken ex-Swansea player Fabio Borini to Anfield and Sky Sports on Wednesday revealed he was lining up another raid.

BBC Sport: Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson is interested in the vacant manager's job at Championship side Nottingham Forest, BBC Sport reports. The 64-year-old Swede has been out of work since being sacked by Leicester City last October.

*The extracts on this page are taken from various newspapers and media outlets. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Aston Villa.