Early returns: Miami, Messi kick off MLS Feb. 21

Mentally and physically, top players in the European women’s game are exhausted. Between internationals, cup games and travel, there’s no time to recover.

Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah was given a chance with Gabriel Jesus out injured and he took it by scoring a hat trick against Sheffield United.

Former goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has been hospitalised while on holiday in Croatia with bleeding on the brain but is in a stable condition.