From the back pages, May 29: Defiant Alastair Cook says England coming to the boil for Ashes

Alastair Cook insists that England are in “a good place” as they prepare for the forthcoming Ashes series. The captain gave a staunch defence of his tactics during the second Investec Test match against New Zealand after England had completed a 2-0 series victory at Headingley Carnegie yesterday. (The Times)

Roberto Martinez has resigned as manager of Wigan and will be free to take the vacant job at Everton. The Toffees made an approach late last week for the Spaniard and at an emotional lunchtime meeting on Tuesday, Martinez told Wigan chairman Dave Whelan he was quitting. (Daily Mail)

Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole will captain England for Wednesday night’s friendly with the Republic of Ireland in celebration of reaching 100th caps. (Independent)

Liverpool are rumoured to have made a move to beat Arsenal to Lyon playmaker Clement Grenier by tabling a firm £12.8million (Euro15m) offer. (Mirror)

LIVERPOOL appear to have made Kolo Toure their first summer signing after agreeing a deal in principle for the defender. (Express)

Dylan Hartley will not appeal against the 11-week suspension he received on Sunday for the red card he was shown in the Premiership final between Northampton and Leicester at Twickenham the day before for swearing at the referee, Wayne Barnes, and calling him a cheat. (Guardian)

REAL MADRID insist Cristiano Ronaldo will not be sold this summer — because they want to build the team around him for years to come. (The Sun)