LiveScore Daily: Today’s football news in bite-sized chunks

LiveScore Daily is here to deliver all the big talking points from the world of football throughout the day. Keep refreshing this page for the latest stories in bite-sized chunks.

Record breaker

Gareth Bale became Wales’ most-capped men's player when he was named in the starting line-up for today's World Cup clash with Iran. 

Making the 110th appearance for his country, Bale led a side showing one change from the team that opened their Group B campaign with a 1-1 draw against the United States on Monday. 

The Los Angeles FC star, 33, had previously been tied with Chris Gunter on 109 senior caps. 

But his joy was short-lived as two stoppage-time goals left the Dragons' hopes hanging by a thread after keeper Wayne Hennessey was sent off late on during a 2-0 defeat. 

New deal

Trevoh Chalobah has vowed to continue giving his all in a Chelsea shirt after signing a long-term contract extension with the club. 

The academy graduate, 23, is now committed to the Blues until at least June 2028, with the option of a further year. 

He said: "I'm over the moon to sign this contract. It's been an honour every time I put the shirt on. 

"I want to give my all and do anything for this club. As everyone knows I've been here from a young age and to continue here is every kid's dream.

"Whenever I get the chance, I'll give my all for the club."

No offence meant

Ghana striker Osman Bukari insists he did not disrespect Cristiano Ronaldo by using his Siu celebration after scoring against Portugal yesterday. 

Bukari pulled a goal back to make it 3-2 in the 89th minute after coming on as a sub before running towards a corner flag and recreating the free agent's famous pose. 

Addressing criticism of his actions after finding the net, the 23-year-old ace tweeted: "I have noticed my celebration has generated comments claiming I was disrespectful towards Ronaldo. 

"This is incorrect. I was overcome by the emotion of the moment of scoring for my country on my World Cup debut. 

"My upbringing doesn't permit me to be disrespectful to elders, let alone one of my idols."

Ready to go

France boss Didier Deschamps has confirmed Raphael Varane is fit and ready to face Denmark tomorrow. 

Varane, 29, was an unused sub as Deschamps' side opened their World Cup defence with a 4-1 win over Australia on Tuesday.   

But the defender, who picked up a leg injury during Manchester United's 1-1 draw with Chelsea in October, is in contention for a place in the side against the Danes.  

Deschamps said: "He was ready to play in the first game. He was fit. We discussed these issues with him. 

"He is still fit for the second game. Of course, we have to make choices. His experience is one thing to take into account. 

"The main thing is that he is ready and fit and I know that’s the case, so I will have to take a decision in that regard."

On hold

Hugo Lloris and Tottenham team-mate Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg will put their friendship aside when France and Denmark collide.

Les Bleus skipper Lloris, 35, said: "It’s a 90-minute battle which will be very important for both countries.

"We will suspend that friendship for 90 minutes but will be friends again afterwards. We have a very good relationship. 

"I’m sure he will have a very important role to play in the Danish side. It will be great to see him and Christian [Eriksen] as well."

England’s opening Euro 2024 qualifier against defending champions Italy will take place in Naples. 

The Italian Football Federation have confirmed the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium has been selected for the Group C clash on March 23. 

It had been expected the match would take place in Bari but renovation works at the Stadio San Nicola meant a different location was needed.