Bernie’s Sports Focus - Thursday 16th August 2012

Substitute Jermain Defoe ‘s second half strike gave England a 2-1 victory against Italy in their friendly international in Berne.

Daniele De Rossi put Italy in front but Phil Jagielka equalized just before the half hour with a diving header.

New faces and a string of substitutions meant neither side was at full strength but England boss Roy Hodgson continued his unbeaten run.

Among last nights other friendlies, Scotland rallied well to beat Australia 3-1.

A new younger Republic of Ireland held Serbia to a goal-less draw in Belgrade.

Northern Ireland had a late penalty to thank for their 3-3 draw against Finland after letting slip a two goal lead.

It was not such a good night for Wales who lost 2-0 to Bosnia Hercegovina Else-where Spain won 2-1 away to Porto Rico, Portugal beat Panama 2-0, France were held to a goal-less draw by Uruguay, Germany went down 3-1 to Argentina and Belgium surprised Holland 4-2.

Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Robin Van Persie from Arsenal in a deal reported to be worth 24 million pounds.

The Dutch international is undergoing a medial at Old Trafford today.

Tottenham Hotspurs play-maker Luka Modric is believed to be on his way to Real Madrid.

It is believed the move for the Croatian international is subject  to Spurs finding a replacement before the transfer window closes at the end of August.