WASHINGTON — Watergate Special Prosecutor Archibald Cox expressed “extreme interest” in a 1970s criminal investigation of New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner for illegal campaign contributions, according to released documents.

Then-FBI Director Clarence M. Kelley relayed Cox's concern in a memo on Aug. 16, 1973, to the bureau's Cleveland office, saying agents needed to make sure the probe received “the same, immediate and preferred handling” as other cases then growing from the Watergate scandal.

ASHBURN, Va. — Donovan McNabb's agent says the “tension” between the quarterback and Washington coach Mike Shanahan and offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan is due to McNabb's suggestions for improving the Redskins' offenseFletcher Smith said in a statement that the Shanahans have made comments that go beyond disrespectful and that were “unprecedented for a six-time Pro Bowl quarterback such as Donovan.”McNabb was told by Mike Shanahan that he would not play for the remainder of the season. Rex Grossman has been designated the starter.

NEWARK, N.J. — Facing the prospect of missing the playoffs for the first time since 1996, the New Jersey Devils fired rookie coach John MacLean and brought back the firm hand of Jacques Lemaire to try to salvage the season.The Devils have been one of the most disappointing teams in the NHL, and their 20 points in 34 games (9-23-2) is the worst mark in the league.

BARCELONA — Barcelona will tour the United States as part of its preseason soccer schedule next summer, with games planned against Manchester United, AC Milan and Mexican team America.The United match is scheduled for July 30 in Landover, Md., with the game against Milan on Aug. 3 in Miami. The tour will conclude in Arlington, Texas, on Aug. 6 with Barcelona taking on America.