Thursday cannon fodder: bulking up with a single pint

As Sponsors Shy Away, FIFA Faces World Cup Shortfall - The New York Times
FIFA’s battered reputation is affecting its sponsorship program for next year’s World Cup. Several high-value slots remain empty with only six months to go.

Gay fans warned holding hands at Russia World Cup will be dangerous | Football | The Guardian
A cautionary guide will be produced by the campaign group Fare warning LGBT fans about holding hands in public at next summer’s World Cup in Russia.

England fans told to stick to a pint on World Cup matchdays if they want to stay safe | Football | The Guardian
It seems totally realistic to tell English soccer fans, before a match, that one pint is plenty.

Toronto FC vs Columbus: Hurt Altidore sends TFC back to MLS Cup | SI.com
The Eastern Conference half of the MLS Cup final is set, as Toronto beat Columbus 1-0 and will host the final against either Seattle or the most hilarious comeback MLS has ever seen.

World Cup 2018: England's best and worst scenarios in Russia - BBC Sport
Russia's a big country. There might be a lot of travel involved in most countries’ World Cup experiences, and the BBC highlights just how much England may need to roam.

When Saturday Comes - How footballers evolved their figures to be built more like wrestlers
The days of neat and tidy football played by a team of slight players is gone – from Phil Jones to Chris O’Grady, it’s now all about the upper body.

How Man City's start compares to Arsenal and Chelsea record breakers - Planet Football
The most interesting thing to me in this article is the frankly terrifying number of goals City have scored so far this season.