Athletics South Africa have finally apologised to disgraced athlete Caster Semenya and the rest of South Africa for their handling of the gender debacle, which has not only tarnished our sporting reputation but has ruined the life of a promising young athlete.

"Athletics South Africa wishes to publicly and unconditionally apologise to Caster Semenya and her family, the President of South Africa as well as to all South Africans for the handling of her gender verification processes and the subsequent aftermath." ? A ASA statement released on Thursday read.

"ASA's board will lead a delegation to meet with Caster, her family and government for discussions on the matter. Athletics South Africa hopes that this will bring closure to a very unpleasant episode for Caster.

"ASA are fully prepared to co-operate with any legitimate body that seeks to get closure on this sensitive matter. Further to this, ASA is willing to make presentations to the Minister of Sport and Recreation to explain the actions taken by ASA officials prior, during and after the competition in Berlin if requested."

To the chaps and ladies at ASA, sorry just isn?t good enough I?m afraid.

Gerrard misses his pal

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard recently admitted that the departure of Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso has not only had a negative effect on the fortunes of the Reds who are currently experiencing the clubs worst spell in 50 years but on the scouser himself.

"Devastated, yeah. Devastated. But there was nothing I could do about it." - Gerrard is, erm, devastated?

"Xabi said a long time ago that he wanted another chapter in his career and finally he got it and his team-mates and the coaches couldn't stand in his way. We just have to say thanks and move forward without him."

"It's always going to be different when you lose one of the best players in the world - and people are finally realising that's what he is, on the back of his form for Real Madrid and the difference in us from last year."

"We've got other midfielders here doing a good job but it will take a while before Alonso's out of our system because he was such a top player."

It might help if Gerrard got back out on the park as well because the Reds definitely need some additional firepower at the moment.

Jenson talks up

Newly crowned Formula One Drivers champion Jenson Button believes he will be even faster and stronger next year following a triumphant season with Brawn GP. After an opening run of six wins in seven races Button had to suffer through the middle months of the season as rival cars caught up in performance, but Button believes he deserved his title.

"I know what it takes now and after taking some time off I intend to come back again and be stronger than ever, what I've been through this season I haven't experienced before. Mentally it's been tough."

"I've learnt a lot. I'll for sure be a stronger driver when I get on the grid for the first race in Bahrain."

"I have been through so much this season, it has been like a whole career in one year and it has taught me so much about everything, racing and myself. I am sure to be a lot stronger next year." ? Button?s self belief is clear for all to see.

And finally?

"It kind of handles like a pregnant elephant." - Sir Jackie Stewart on F1 cars with full fuel tanks.

"My secret is adapting to the country I am in. Here I eat roast beef and Yorkshire pudding. There are people who visit different countries and don't adapt. It is a must." ? Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

"I know very well what I have to do if I have the flu. It's not a medical prescription. It's my grandmother's prescription - hot milk. Alcohol - red wine. Fantastic." ? Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti has the perfect antidote for swine flu.