Sportsday - rolling sports news

1. Man City host Newcastle in the League Cup (19:45 GMT)
2. Stoke face Southampton and Spurs take on Brighton in last 16
3. Andy Murray beats Julien Benneteau 6-3 6-4 in Paris Masters second round
4. Referee Clattenburg dropped for breaking Premier League guidelines
5. GET INVOLVED: Favourite sporting celebrations

Goodbye

That's it! Thanks for your company today, now get yourselves over to the live text commentary of the League Cup last 16.

See you again for more Sportsday tomorrow morning.

Wozniacki hopeful of marathon finish

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We leave you with an uplifting tale, one of optimism over adversity.

Tennis star Caroline Wozniacki is confident she can finish the New York City Marathon on Sunday even though her success on the court has cut into her training.

The Dane has never covered more than about 13 miles in her preparations, after she experienced a sudden and dramatic upturn in form. She reached the finals of the US Open and made the last four of the Pan Pacific Open and the WTA Finals.

Tonight's League Cup action

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Of course, there's still plenty of League Cup action to come this evening.

Newcastle visit Manchester City, Tottenham host Brighton and Stoke meet Southampton just four days after the teams played each other in the Premier League.

Can Stoke take revenge for their defeat? Can the Seagulls end their miserable run in spectacular fashion? Can Newcastle continue their mini-resurgence?

You'll be able to find out the answers to all these questions in the BBC Sport live text commentary of tonight's football, which will appear on the homepage in about ten minutes.

Irvine stands by wholesale West Brom changes

West Bromwich Albion head coach Alan Irvine says he stands by his decision to make 10 changes for Tuesday night's 2-1 League Cup defeat at Bournemouth.

Only Craig Dawson stayed in the Baggies' team from the 2-2 Premier League draw with Crystal Palace at the weekend, but Irvine says he does not regret changing virtually his entire starting line-up.

"I've got to look after the players who have been playing in all their games," he told BBC WM.

"And I also have to give players who are desperate to play a platform to impress. Some of them did, but enough of them."

Monk's wife angry at letter

Ever hand delivered a letter of complaint to the wife of your club's manager? Unsurprisingly, it appears it doesn't go down too well.

Swansea manager Garry Monk's wife, Lexy Blackwell, said on Twitter: "Absolutely incensed a NEIGHBOUR has the audacity 2 hand deliver a letter moaning at Garry's handling of things/everything he's doing wrong.

"If u want to talk to him go to the Swans. Don't come to my children's home. Or better still, as you think u know better than him, why don't you become a manager."

The incident came the day after the Swans were knocked out of the League Cup by Liverpool with Dejan Lovren scoring a late winner at Anfield.

Federer through in Paris

Staying with tennis, Roger Federer has made it through to the third round of the Paris Masters.

The world number two came through a tough battle against France's Jeremy Chardy 7-6 6-7 6-4. Next up for the Swiss, a meeting with Fabio Fognini or Lucas Pouille.

More importantly, his quest to win the tournament and replace Novak Djokovic as world number one is still very much on.

Lisicki returns for Fed Cup final

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Sabine Lisicki, the world number 27, will make a return to the Germany team for the Fed Cup final against the Czech Republic.

Lisicki, last year's beaten Wimbledon finalist, replaces Anna-Lena Groenefeld, who accompanied Julia Goerges in the doubles in both of the last two rounds.

Lisiciki won the fourth WTA Tour title of her career last month in Hong Kong but has not played in the Fed Cup since April last year.

Coleman and McCarthy recalled to Republic squad

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Seamus Coleman and James McCarthy have been recalled to the Republic of Ireland squad for next month's Euro 2016 qualifier in Scotland and the home friendly against USA.

The Everton duo missed last month's 7-0 demolition of Gibraltar and 1-1 draw in Germany with injuries, but both were included in Martin O'Neill's provisional 36-man party after returning to action for their club.

However, there is no place for Norwich midfielder Wes Hoolahan or Aston Villa's rising star Jack Grealish.

Get involved

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We've been asking you for your favourite sporting celebrations, in honour of Zhang Jike's effort at the 2014 table tennis World Cup...

Kassim Olanrewaju: It has to be Jimmy Bullard doing the Phil Brown seminar.

Cathryn McDowell: Seve's fist punching after holing a winning putt is the best for me, apart from Aguero's shirt waving after that goal.

Russell Moore: Keeping it 'on the table' I recommend Gavin Rumgay's shorts shank at at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

League Cup fourth round

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Spurs aren't exactly on top form themselves though, having suffered back-to-back defeats for the first time this season at the weekend.

Could be a nervy one at White Hart Lane...

League Cup fourth round: Team news

Tottenham full-back Kyle Naughton is fit again after a ankle injury while fellow defender Federico Fazio is available after suspension.

But Nabil Bentaleb (ankle) and Kyle Walker (pelvis) remain sidelined and miss the fourth-round tie.

Brighton midfielder Kazenga LuaLua is available again after suspension.

But Sam Baldock is cup-tied while Craig Mackail-Smith could miss out again with a hamstring injury and full-back Bruno is struggling with a groin problem.

Chardy takes Federer the distance

Roger Federer's bid to replace Novak Djokovic as the world number one is not going entirely to plan.

The Swiss maestro has dropped the second set to France's Jeremy Chardy in the Paris Masters second round.

Federer is just 490 points behind Djokovic in the ATP world rankings, with the winner in Paris receiving 1,000 points.

Savage gets honorary degree

Glyndwr University

Former Wales footballer Robbie Savage has been awarded an honorary fellowship at his hometown university.

The former Leicester City, Derby County and Blackburn Rovers midfielder was honoured by Wrexham's Glyndwr University for services to sport.

"I am very thankful to be offered this honorary fellowship and accept this accolade wholeheartedly," Savage said.

Jackett: Rowett deserves his chance

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Wolves manager Kenny Jackett believes Gary Rowett deserves his opportunity in charge of Birmingham ahead of Saturday's big West Midlands derby.

"Gary has done very well at Burton over a number of seasons and quite rightly gets the chance now at Championship level," Jackett told Wolves' official website.

40-year-old Rowett (pictured) was announced as successor to Lee Clark earlier this week and must turn round the fortunes of a side beaten 8-0 by Bournemouth last weekend.

League Cup run funded MK recruitment

MK Dons would have been unable to sign two new players without their League Cup run, says executive director Andrew Cullen.

Winger Carl Baker and defender Jordan Spence have recently joined the Dons, who went out to Sheffield United on Tuesday, ending a run which included a 4-0 thrashing of Manchester United.

"We've been able to make two signings, as well as give new contracts to Mark Randall and Dele Alli," Cullen told BBC Three Counties Radio.

"We wouldn't have been able to do that without this cup run."

Latest gossip

The Daily Star reports Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is a fan of French left-back Lucas Digne, 21, who is struggling to break into PSG's first team due to the presence of Brazilian defender Maxwell.

You can tell the opening of the transfer window is just a couple of months away as the transfer gossip in the tabloids cranks up a notch.

Taylor set for first match since 2012

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A midweek League Cup tie might not be the stuff that most players' dreams are made of, but if Ryan Taylor gets on the pitch for Newcastle against Manchester City tonight, it will surely be one of the best moments of his career.

The 30-year-old has spent 26 months on the sidelines after damaging his cruciate ligament in August 2012.

"I think it is an inspirational story to everybody here and in football," said Magpies boss Alan Pardew.

"He has had terrible, terrible luck with injuries and it is so pleasing to put his name on the team-sheet this week to travel."

Get involved

Milly McEvoy: Has to be between Stevie Gerrard's camera kiss at Old Trafford or Andy Murray's fingers and eyes to the skies.

james salsbury: Why has no one mention the Luis Suarez 'dive' celebration underneath the nose of Moyes?

James Tambinho: Adebayor running the whole length of the pitch vs Arsenal.

Table tennis player Zhang Jike certainly knows how to celebrate - or not - but we want to know your favourite sporting celebrations? Tweet #bbcsportsday.

Fit-again Williams ready to fight for Reading

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Reading's US international midfielder Danny Williams is ready to make up for lost time after a "frustrating" injury lay-off.

Williams, 25, picked up a knee injury in April that cost him the chance to play at the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil, and he was still not ready to return for the start of the Royals' Championship campaign in August.

Now he is back to full fitness after a summer of rehabilitation and keen to play his part in lifting the club up the table.

"I'm positive and ready," Williams told BBC Radio Berkshire. "I'm looking forward to helping the team, we still have a lot of games and I want to help the team get in the play offs."

Walden ends Swail run

A few more results to bring you up to date with from the International Championship in Chengdu, China.

Joe Swail beat world number two Neil Robertson in the previous round, but the Northern Irishman could not continue his odyssey, going down 6-4 to Ricky Walden.

Walden's opponent in the quarter-finals will be Jamie Burnett, a 6-2 winner over Peter Ebdon.

Mark Allen saw off Stuart Bingham to set up a last eight clash with Wales's Michael White, while last year's finalist Marco Fu also progressed, to set up a quarter-final with Robert Milkins.

Port Vale confirm Page appointment

League One side Port Vale appoint Rob Page as their new manager.

Vale have lost just twice in seven games since Page took over on a caretaker basis following Micky Adams' resignation on 18 September.

League Cup fourth round: Team news

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Stoke meanwhile are aiming to reach the quarter-finals for the second successive season; they were beaten 2-0 by Manchester United in the last eight in 2013-14.

Stand-in keeper powerless to prevent Alfreton loss

Alfreton Town midfielder Anthony Howell was unable to perform heroics as an emergency goalkeeper as the Conference side lost 5-1 at Lincoln in the FA Cup.

The Reds only had 11 fit players for Tuesday's fourth-qualifying round replay at Sincil Bank and a keeper crisis meant Howell started in goal.

"It was a good experience," Howell told BBC Radio Derby. "But five goals and losing kind of dampens it. I will never take the mick out of a keeper again - it's a hard job."

Latest gossip

The race is on for Marco Reus's signature, according to the Daily Express.

They report Borussia Dortmund have put contract talks with Germany international Marco Reus on hold and claim Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal are all expected to make a move for the 25-year-old, with £32m reportedly enough to bring the winger to England.

Expect Reus to be heavily mentioned by the media between now and January.

League Cup fourth round: Team news

Stoke defender Robert Huth is having a scan after injuring his calf in training amid fears he might be out for several weeks.

Fellow defender Phil Bardsley, who has been struggling with a back injury, is also a doubt for the fourth-round tie.

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has no new injury problems but could make a few changes to Saturday's line-up.

Midfielder James Ward-Prowse and striker Jay Rodriguez remain long-term absentees.

Get involved

On the back of table tennis player Zhang Jike's costly celebration, here are a few of your favourite sporting celebrations. Keep them coming at #bbcsportsday.

Gaz Reid: Tino Asprilla vs. Metz for Newcastle. Takes off his shirt, puts it on the corner flag and waves it for the crowd.

Michael Swann: Got to be DR Congo's goalkeeper, Muteba Kidiaba, in the African Cup of Nations!

Tyler Jelley: Has to be @billysharp10 jumping into the #nffc crowd at Blackpool away and taking a chomp out of a hot dog.

Not exactly the ideal matchday diet though Tyler...

League Cup fourth round

PA

If things weren't hard enough eh Newcastle fans?

Balotelli needs to 'feed himself'

Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Luis Suarez, James Rodriguez, Mario Balotelli?

Liverpool defender Kolo Toure believes his Liverpool's team mate's name belongs on a list of the best players in the world after Balotelli's goal against Swansea in last night's League Cup tie.

"For strikers, goals are like food," said Toure. "Mario needs to feed himself by scoring goals. Now he's got that one he will do that now, definitely.

"Mario is my mate and I've tried to help him like (Liverpool captain) Stevie (Gerrard), the manager (Brendan Rodgers) and everyone else in the dressing room.

"We all know he's a top player. I always tell him 'you need to get out there and show you are one of the best players in the world'.

League Cup fourth round: Team news

Manchester City midfielder Samir Nasri returns to the squad after recovering from a groin injury which has seen him miss the last seven matches.

Frank Lampard is out with a thigh injury, but otherwise manager Manuel Pellegrini has a fully-fit squad for the fourth-round tie.

Newcastle are expected to be without Papiss Cisse, Emmanuel Riviere, Cheick Tiote and Mike Williamson.

Ryan Taylor is in line to make his first appearance since August 2012

Get involved

Those bizarre table tennis antics got me thinking about other celebrations we have seen in sport. Let us know your suggestions for favourite sporting celebrations and we will publish the best ones.

Tweet #bbcsportsday or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

Destructive celebrations

BBC

Remember Temur Ketsbaia's wild celebration for Newcastle against Bolton in 1998? Well, here is one that tops it.

Chinese table tennis player Zhang Jike destroys two advertising boards in celebration after regaining his title at the 2014 World Cup in Dusseldorf, costing himself almost £30,000.

The International Table Tennis Federation fined the Olympic champion all of his $45,000 prize money after he kicked the hoardings to pieces and threw his shirt to the crowd celebrating victory over compatriot and top seed Ma Long in Sunday's final.

King signs new Leicester deal

Leicester City

Happy Birthday Andy King! The Leicester midfielder signs a new four year deal to keep him at King Power Stadium until 2018.

King, who turned 26 today, said: "I'm absolutely buzzing. To have come so far with the Club and to be playing in the Premier League now is a dream come true. To be able to commit my future and for the Club to have shown this sort of faith in me is a massive boost so I'm just looking to kick on now."

League Cup fixtures

Man City v Newcastle (19:45)

Stoke v Southampton (19:45)

Tottenham v Brighton (19:45)

Murray beats Benneteau

Let's hear from Andy Murray, who has been speaking to Sky Sports: "I was hitting the ball well. The conditions are very different from Valencia last week, it's playing faster, the points are quicker. In the second set, I didn't serve so well and let him into the match a little bit, but apart from that period I was very good.

"If I get to London, I'll be very pleased because I've worked very hard these last two weeks and won some tough matches."

Now Andy Murray has eased into the third round at the Paris Masters, we will focus our attentions back to the League Cup and tonight's fourth round matches.

Manchester City, Tottenham, Stoke and Southampton are among those in action as they look to reach the quarter-final.

Stay tuned for plenty of team news, stats and the best from social media, plus all the breaking news from elsewhere in sport.

Murray beats Benneteau

So that victory means that Andy Murray is just one match away from definitely booking his place at the World Tour Finals at the O2 in London next month. Next up, he will face the winner of Grigor Dimitrov's match against Pablo Cuevas.

Remember though, even if Murray does lose that match, it would still take an improbable sequence of results to deny him a place in London.

The Scot is in such fine form that a good run in Paris isn't out of the question - although he could run into new dad Novak Djokovic in the quarters.

Simon Briggs

Daily Telegraph tennis correspondent on Radio 5 live sports extra

"Murray is not known for his qualities as a front runner but he got out early, didn't miss a ball in the first 20 minutes and was well ahead. Even though he showed weariness in the second set he had broken Benneteau's spirit and quietened the crowd."

Murray 6-3 6-4 Benneteau

Murray to serve it out then. Big miss from Benneteau in the first point, he had a chance but can't convert with the court open. That's a as close as he gets. Benneteau sends a curling forehand wide and a big serve from Murray earns the Scot three match points. Murray finishes off with a big one-two serve and forehand combo. Murray wins. An excellent, clinical performance from the British number one, who is carrying a lot of form into the World Tour Finals.

Get involved

Ross McD: The permutations for Murray not reaching the Tour Finals even if he loses today are highly, highly unlikely. He's there.

George MacMillan: Think Andy should try and take this match and the next and then relax until the year end finals.

Well he has taken done half of that George. One down one to go.

*Murray 6-3 5-4 Benneteau

Murray is still seeing the ball so early here, getting even Benneteau's best first serves back into play, and making it very difficult for the home favourite. Benneteau is not giving this one up though - he finishes off with a big swooping forehand and finally a serve which beats Murray.

Toilet trouble for Raonic

AP

Milos Raonic's first-round win in the Paris Masters wasn't without its problems - as he spent eight minutes searching for a suitable toilet.

The seventh seed Canadian revealed why he took so long to return to court during his 6-3 5-7 7-6(4) win over American Jack Sock.

"Whoever the escort who took me was, took me into a bathroom that had no seats on the toilet," he said. "So I didn't want to squat, so I kept saying, 'let's go to another one', and we ended up going to the locker room."

Murray 6-3 5-3 Benneteau*

Murray starting to miss a few first serves here. A good return from Benneteau, and then the Frenchman finds an inspired pass. 0-30. Benneteau's confidence was on the floor minutes ago, suddenly he's all fired up and the crowd are roaring him on. A good pass from Murray, and that first-pump shows just how much it means to the Scot. He's still in a battle here. Good point from Murray, working the Frenchman from side to side and burying a smash. 30-30. A mammoth point follows, finally ended when Benneteau smears a crosscourt forehand inches wide. That was close, good defence from Murray though. And he comes through when he muscles a forehand into the corner. Good hold from the Scot, he's a game away now.

Get involved

Andrew Priestley: Reaching the ATP World Finals is an achievement in itself given Murray's position a month ago, but I fear he's burnt himself out.

Don't count your chickens Andrew. He isn't quite there yet...‏

*Murray 6-3 4-3 Benneteau

Now, can Benneteau consolidate that breakthrough? He starts well to move to 30-0, but a blistering backhand from Murray and a reckless forehand from Benneteau into the tramlines bring it back to 30-30. Murray scents blood, but a good serve from Benneteau and a nice forehand give him a morale-boosting hold.

Simon Briggs

Daily Telegraph tennis correspondent on Radio 5 live sports extra

"There was a bit of swearing by Murray in that game, probably the first of the match. It would have felt wrong if we hadn't have had that bit of intensity from him at least once in the game."

Murray 6-3 4-2 Benneteau*

Out of nowhere, staring at the exit door, Benneteau suddenly finds some excellent tennis. He finishes off a well-constructed point with a good smash to bring up 0-30. Is the door ajar? It certainly is now, he hits a terrific return to bring up three break points, his first. Murray saves one with a clincial volley, and another when he outlasts Benneteau in an exchange of crosscourt backhands. He's been dominant in those points. Oh no, Benneteau has a good look at a juicy second serve and sends it - you guessed it - into the net. Zut alors. Deuce. But he brings up another break point when Murray nets. Can he take it? Yes, Murray fires long. Benneteau breaks. He couldn't, could he?

Shrews 'sensed Chelsea blood', says Lawrence

Shrewsbury's Liam Lawrence thought Chelsea looked vulnerable when the Shrews levelled their League Cup tie.

Three minutes after Andy Mangan's equaliser, a Jermaine Grandison own goal gave Chelsea a 2-1 win and saw them through to the last eight, but Lawrence felt pride in giving the Premier League leaders a real test.

"As soon as we scored, you could sense a bit of blood. Even Jose Mourinho, if he's an honest man, could sense things weren't going his way," captain Lawrence told BBC Radio Shropshire.

O'Sullivan through to quarters in China

Ronnie O'Sullivan is living up to his 'rocket' nickname in the International Championship in Chengdu, China.

The five-time world champion beat Li Hang 6-1 to reach the quarter-finals and set up a clash with Mark Williams.

*Murray 6-3 4-1 Benneteau

Murray keeping Benneteau scrambling, he's moving the Frenchman around the court as if he's got him on a remote control. A clincial finish at the net takes him to 0-30. Benneteau earns a point with a better serve, but again he falters with a poor forehand after a baseline exchange. Break point. And Benneteau fires into the tape again. Murray in total command now.

Murray 6-3 3-1 Benneteau*

Murray was named by Novak Djokovic as his ideal doubles partner yesterday, and he's doing his chances of a telephone call from the Serb no harm here. He's playing the well-constructed tennis of a man in form. He seals another straightforward game with a delicious lob.

BBC

Things have been pretty straight forward so far for Murray as shown by the stats from the first set above.

*Murray 6-3 2-1 Benneteau

Benneteau surely needs to hold here, and he produces a better game. He finds a few first serves, which helps. A nice drive volley takes him to game point, and another one, dispatched with an angry swat, get him on the board in this second set.

Murray 6-3 2-0 Benneteau*

Yachting fans will know that Benneteau is also a famous make of sailboat, and the Frenchman is listing in choppy waters here. His backhand is a mess at the moment, another one hits the tape. Booming ace from Murray, and another good point from the Scot ends when Benneteau nets again. Murray strolling in the French capital.

*Murray 6-3 1-0 Benneteau

AP

Lovely shot from Murray to begin the second set, curling forehand on the run that Benneteau can't get back. Better second point from the Frenchman though, finished off at the net. Another forehand goes into the net from Benneteau, but that's a classy volley from the home favourite. 30-30. Crucial points coming up.

Good serve out wide from Benneteau. Ooh, how cruel is that, Benneteau dictating this point all the way, but a desperate Murray pass hits the tape and drops in. Deuce. And this time Benneteau gives Murray too much room at the net, that pass is meat and drink to the Scot. Break point. Benneteau spoons a volley long off his toes. Murray breaks.

Simon Briggs

Daily Telegraph tennis correspondent on Radio 5 live sports extra

"Not much atmosphere here. It has been a very low key first set and it is a very different to the feeling to the match we saw on Sunday. This has been a match of short rallies because Benneteau doesn't want to stand there and trade. When Murray reached the towel in that last service game, it was like the first time he sweated."

Murray 6-3 Benneteau*

Can Benneteau make any impression on the Murray serve here? He has a chance at 15-15 , but misses an easy forehand up the line with Murray stranded, should have won that point. That's better from the Frenchman though, deep looping forehand into the corner, forcing Murray to hit long. Ooh, that's so close form Benneteau, he sends a scorching return a fraction wide. Set point Murray. And a swinging serve gives the Scot the first set. Pretty assured set of tennis that.

Kellock named Barbarians skipper

Alastair Kellock's frustration at being overlooked for Scotland's Autumn Test series has been eased a little after being named as Barbarians skipper against Australia at Twickenham on Saturday.

The former Scotland skipper would have been hoping to be involved in preparations for battles against Argentina, New Zealand and Tonga with Vern Cotter's national squad.

But, after missing out, at least he can look forward to a consolation prize.

*Murray 5-3 Benneteau

Ooh, peachy drop volley from Benneteau, nice change-up, that gets the crowd excited. He follows it with an unreturnable serve down the T. Murray sends an absolute missile into the corner, he's striking the ball so confidently here. Benneteau doesn't do enough with a smash but his long arms get him out of trouble when Murray sends up a lob. Another nice touch shot at the net from the Frenchman. He hangs on, Murray to serve for it.

Murray 5-2 Benneteau*

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Benneteau just can't hit a winner at the moment, he attempts to detonate a forehand but it finds the tape. That's better, whack, a crunching return winner from the Frenchman. Maybe that will get his juices flowing. Nope, another one goes into the net, and again Murray forces a Benneteau error, he's just too strong in the baseline exchanges at the moment. A Murray ace, and he's strolling towards this first set.

Elsewhere, David Ferrer has beaten David Goffin in three sets. His route to London is still open.

Swansea to appeal against red card

Back to football and Swansea City confirm they will appeal against the red card issued to Federico Fernandez in last night's League Cup defeat to Liverpool.

They must have a chance of winning that appeal as, to me, the red card looked extremely soft. Fernandez was shown a straight red for a tackle on Philippe Coutinho.

Simon Briggs

Daily Telegraph tennis correspondent on Radio 5 live sports extra

"This match hasn't caught light so far. There have been far too many unforced errors, particularly from Benneteau."

*Murray 4-2 Benneteau

Murray working Benneteau around the court, just waiting for the error to come at the moment, and it does, on the Frenchman's usually solid backhand. He recovers though, thumping an ace down the middle. And another good serve gives him an easy putaway at the net. Murray fires long, and Benneteau has another hold.

Murray 4-1 Benneteau*

Benneteau drags a forehand horribly wide on the first point, that wasn't pretty. Ace from Murray, his serve really ticking along nicely so far. Benneteau larrups a return into the tramlines, he still hasn't found his timing yet. And another one flies wide from the racquet of the home favourite. Murray cruising so far.

*Murray 3-1 Benneteau

That's better from Benneteau, wrong-footing Murray with a backhand down the line. Murray nets a second serve, Benneteau just about does enough with a smash. And another smash, this one converted more emphatically, and the Frenchman is on the board.

Halsall finishes with four medals

EPA

Away from the tennis for a second to the swimming World Cup in Tokyo where Fran Halsall takes her tally to four medals.

Having won 50m freestyle and backstroke gold on Tuesday, the double Commonwealth champion claimed two more medals today on day two.

Halsall made it a hat-trick of gold medals as she stormed to victory in the 100m freestyle, before she took silver in the 50m butterfly with a new British record time of 25.29.

Murray 3-0 Benneteau*

Lovely one-two punch from Murray, following the serve down the middle with a roundhouse drive volley. And again, Murray goes down the T, this time an ace. Benneteau into the net, dear me, this is a jittery start from the Frenchman. And Benneteau is beaten by a Murray pass down at his toes. The Scot looking razor sharp so far. He's in no mood to hang about, and who can blame him?

*Murray 2-0 Benneteau

Benneteau whips a crosscourt forehand into the net to give us our first point against serve. And now a double fault from the Frenchman, this is an edgy start. And another! Oh la la. 15-40, two break points. Can you believe it? Benneteau dishes up another double fault to hand Murray the easiest break you could wish for. Murray breaks.

Get involved

Ross McD: The week break between Paris and London means Murray will be in good condition for the Tour Finals. Expect him to do well.

Nick James: Andy's done amazingly to get to the World Tour Finals, just hope he doesn't burn himself out as Novak and Rodger will be fresh.

Veenal Patel: He can go to the final but win it? It is doable, but lots of good players already in. We'll have to see what happens.

How far can Andy Murray go in the Paris Masters? Tweet #bbctennis or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

Murray 1-0 Benneteau* (* denotes next to serve)

Murray with the honour. He opens up with a meaty forehand winner, what a statement of intent that is! Benneteau fires wide, ace into the corner from Murray, and then he polishes off an easy forehand at the net. A nice start for the Scot, who won't mind all his service games being that straightforward today.

Simon Briggs

Daily Telegraph tennis correspondent on Radio 5 live sports extra

"I heard Andy Murray say he wasn't expecting too much from this. But an element of that is where he is trying to take the pressure of himself and be able to relax a little bit. When you are winning and been a run like he has, you want to keep that going. Andy will be tired but he must have a lot of confidence."

Listen to Andy Murray's second-round match on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra by clicking on the Live Coverage at the top of the page.

Murray v Benneteau

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Murray leads the head-to-head against Benneteau 4-0, in case you were wondering.

Commentary of this match is on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra. Russell Fuller is on hand to talk you through this encounter, alongside Simon Briggs of the Telegraph.

Murray v Benneteau

The players are out on court. Home-crowd darling Benneteau looking exceptionally classy in a navy polo shirt and pressed white shorts. A few last swigs from his water bottle from Murray, and it's showtime....

Ferrer battling for London place

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While we wait for Murray and Benneteau to take to the court, a minor shock could be brewing elsewhere in Paris.

David Ferrer gave Murray a heck of a match in Valencia last week, but his place in London could be in jeopardy - he's just lost the second set of his match against Belgium's David Goffin - one of the hottest players on Tour at the moment.

If Goffin can nick the deciding set (and he has a formidable record over three sets this year) to knock out Ferrer, the Spaniard could miss the season-ending Finals for the first time since 2009.

Get involved

Don't forget, we want to hear from you as Murray takes on Benneteau.

And don't just restrict yourself to events in Paris, we want to know - can Andy Murray go far at the World Tour Finals in London, or has he burnt himself out with his hectic schedule?

Let us know on your thoughts on all things tennis-related on Twitter using the hashtag #bbctennis or get involved on the BBC Sport Facebook and Google+ pages.

Murray up next

In normal circumstances, you'd expect Murray to have too much for the home favourite, but just how much will the Scot have left in the tank?

He beat Tommy Robredo in a see-sawing minor epic of final at the weekend, the longest the ATP has seen this year - a game in which both players looked entirely cream-crackered at times.

Not only that, Murray has played the last five weeks in a row. He admits that his expectations this week "aren't incredibly high". Will a run in the French capital prove a step too far?

Murray up next

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It's now time to turn our attention to Paris, where Andy Murray is bidding to seal his place at the World Tour Finals.

The British number one needs to win his first two matches to be assured of qualifying for the end-of-season tournament in London, though he's likely to make it anyway if other results go his way.

First up for Murray is Frenchman Julien Benneteau. The world number 28 beat Yen Hsun Lu in the first round. You may remember Benneteau as the gangly customer who took Roger Federer to five sets at Wimbledon 2012 before succumbing to the eventual champion.

Carroll: West Ham can target Europe

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West Ham striker Andy Carroll believes European qualification is a realistic target for the Hammers after their impressive start to the season.

Carroll has not yet played this season due to an ankle injury, but in his absence Enner Valencia and Diafra Sakho have flourished, firing West Ham to victories over Manchester City and Liverpool.

"I think we can push right on for Europe," Carroll told the club's website. "I don't see why not - I think all the lads are positive about that and I know the gaffer is too. We're playing fantastically."

Tigers sign Rotherham centre

Leicester Tigers have signed centre Jack Roberts from Championship side Rotherham Titans.

The 22-year-old ex-Wales Under-16 and U-18 international spent one season with the Titans, scoring 12 tries in 36 games to help them reach the play-offs.

Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: "Jack is a young and ambitious player who we have seen play well in Championship company.

"Now he has an opportunity to take that potential into a Premiership club."

Cabella: no hard feelings over Pardew drop

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Newcastle summer signing Remy Cabella says he doesn't blame manager Alan Pardew for dropping him to the bench.

The Frenchman lost his place in the starting line-up earlier this month after starting Newcastle's first six league games. Cabella told French paper L'Equipe: "It's logical. The coach had been starting me in the first two months, but I had not scored or had an assist."

But Cabella returned as a substitute on Sunday on Tottenham and set up Ayoze Perez's winner.

"I have not eased up, I have worked more," he said. "My first assist is good for the confidence. Alan Pardew wants me to be more decisive." Newcastle play Manchester City in the League Cup tonight.

Striker Iwelumo announces retirement

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Former Scotland international Chris Iwelumo has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 36.

Iwelumo joined Conference side Chester on a one-year deal in June and scored once in his 10 outings.

He was capped four times by his country and scored more than 100 goals in over 500 senior appearances at club level. Sadly, despite his impressive career, he will perhaps be forever remembered for his inexplicable miss for Scotland against Norway in 2008.

It doesn't get any prettier looking at it again.

Wawrinka and Raonic into third round

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A couple of early results to bring you from the Paris Masters ahead of the big match involving Andy Murray at around 13:00 GMT (which we'll be live-texting here on Sportsday).

Swiss third seed Stan Wawrinka is safely through to the third round after a 6-4 7-6 victory over Austrian prospect Dominic Thiem - he'll face South Africa's Kevin Anderson next. Wawrinka has already qualified for the World Tour Finals in London.

Canada's Milos Raonic, the seventh seed, is also through after a tussle with American Jack Sock: 6-3 5-7 7-6. Raonic is currently tenth in the Race to London (top nine qualify), and had he lost that match, Murray would have qualified for the Tour Finals.

As it is though, the Scot still has it all to play for!

Why are Rangers in such trouble?

They attract crowds in excess of 30,000, while their status as a Scottish Championship club should, in theory, restrict their overheads. Yet Rangers were reportedly only 48 hours from going into administration last week.

The club kept control of its finances only thanks to a £2m loan from Newcastle owner Mike Ashley, who has a 8.29% shareholding in the Glasgow giants.

BBC Sport Scotland's Chris McLaughlin explains why Ashley's loan was necessary and what it may mean for Rangers. Read the full story here.

Bournemouth have 'top-flight quality'

Bournemouth defender Adam Smith says his side's League Cup victory over West Brom proved the Cherries have Premier League quality in their ranks.

The Championship side's 2-1 win over the top-flight opponents saw them reach the quarter-finals for the first time.

It was their fifth successive victory, and they sit fourth in the second tier.

"The football we play is Premier League standard and we have shown tonight we can compete with top-flight teams," Smith, 23, told BBC Radio Solent.

Haskell could play after meningitis scare

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England flanker James Haskell says he is over a meningitis scare which required hospital treatment and will be fit to face world champions New Zealand next Saturday.

Haskell lost five kilograms in a week after being struck down with a virus at the start of the month.

"I've never been so ill in my life," he said. "They thought I had meningitis and put me in an ambulance." But he said he would be "extremely disappointed" to be overlooked for the New Zealand game on the basis of his illness.

Get involved

Richard Norris: Paul Furlong. Horrible stick at the start of a torrid spell with QPR but turned it round to become an absolute icon.

YU HIMM FUNG: Jenson Button - career was finished when Honda pulled in 2008 and then his newly formed team allowed to be world champion!

Harry Partridge: Beckham: red card zero and most hated man in England after WC'98 to heroic England captain... and that goal against Greece!

Santi Cazorla

Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla on Twitter: Happy birthday to my friend @piresrobert7 best wishes!!

Former Gunners midfielder Robert Pires, who turned 40 today, is pictured above with Cazorla during their time together at Villareal in 2007. Any idea who the player in the middle is? We have our suspicions but what do you reckon?

London NFL franchise 'could net UK £100m'

A London-based NFL team could be worth more than £100m a year to the UK, says a Deloitte study published today.

It says the two NFL games at Wembley in 2013 brought an extra £32m to the capital, and a regular team with eight games a season could net £102m.

It comes after Oakland Raiders' British linebacker Menelik Watson told BBC World Sport he thought a London franchise was likely.

Wayne Rooney

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney on Twitter: Brilliant time at @edsheeran concert last night. Thanks for a great night mate.

Seems the singer/songwriter was in popular demand last night. I'm presuming Rooney's concert trip didn't land him any grief though unlike referee Mark Clattenburg. I wonder if Mark got a hug from the man himself?

Rowett exit from Burton 'inevitable'

Chairman Ben Robinson says Gary Rowett's ambition and achievements while manager of Burton meant it was inevitable he would join a bigger club.

Rowett, 40, was named Birmingham boss on Monday after just over two and a half years at the Pirelli Stadium.

Robinson told BBC Radio Derby: "He has been a great manager. He is an ambitious young manager and there is nothing wrong with that. He would always go when the right opportunity came along."

Latest gossip

Arsenal have launched a bid to bring Juventus full-back Stephan Lichtsteiner to north London, according to Sky Sports Italia.

They report the 30-year-old Swiss international could be available for nothing in the January transfer window due to his Juve contract being up in the summer.

Newcastle players back Pardew

Newcastle defender Daryl Janmaat says the players are right behind manager Alan Pardew as they bid to turn their season around after a poor start.

Dutch full-back Janmaat said: ""The manager was under a lot of pressure so it's nice that we have given him some points. I now expect the pressure to ease on him. We do not want another manager."

Newcastle take on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in the League Cup fourth round tonight.

Boris steps into the ring

@LiveFight

He's long been renowned as a political heavyweight, now London Mayor Boris Johnson has strapped on the gloves and entered the ring for real. Here he is on a visit to the Fight for Peace academy in North Woolwich, London.

Dan Walker's #FitnessXI

Dan Walker

BBC Sport

BBC

Here is Dan Walker's Tuesday Team News. He asked for your #FitnessXI and you duly delivered......

Royals take World Series to decider

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The expected thrashings may have failed to materialise in the League Cup last night, but there was one good old-fashioned trouncing - in Game Six of baseball's World Series, where the Kansas City Royals hammered the San Francisco Giants 10-0.

Rookie pitcher Yordano Ventura, 23, was the star for the the home side, throwing seven shutout innings.

The Royals win means the 162-game season comes down to one decisive game on Wednesday in Kansas City.

Get involved

James Chesson: Emmanuel Eboue went from being subbed off moments after being brought on himself and booed to being a cult hero at Arsenal.

Evans Kutin: Zero to hero in 140 mins. Who?...Marouanne Fellaini that's who.

Azizur: Apparently the legendary Ian rush went 9 months before his first goal... Then went on to be a goal machine.

On this day

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Time for a look back at this day in sporting history, and today we revisit one of English football's most embarrassing sagas. It was on this day 11 years ago that Rio Ferdinand was charged with misconduct by the FA after missing a drugs test.

The Manchester United defender was eventually found guilty and handed an eight-month ban, which kept him out of England's Euro 2004 campaign.

Oyston explains Riga dismissal

With Championship strugglers Blackpool reportedly close to appointing Lee Clark as their new manager, chairman Karl Oyston has been explaining his decision to sack Jose Riga on Monday.

The pair clashed consistently over transfer policy, but Oyston told BBC Radio Lancashire he felt the Belgian was given enough support in the market.

"When Jose arrived we had six players - we've now got mid-20," said Oyston. "Every one of those players that we brought in was his choice. The fact of the matter is we're not doing very well on the pitch and we're all equally unhappy about that."

World cup emblem out of this world

Fifa

Out of this world or what?

The emblem for the 2018 Fifa World Cup in Russia was revealed on board the International Space Station.

The design was inspired by "Russia's rich artistic tradition and its history of achievement and innovation". The image of the emblem was also projected onto the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow.

Clark set for Blackpool?

Another manager set for Blackpool? It would seem, according to the Blackpool Gazette.

The newspaper reports former Birmingham boss Lee Clark has been offered the Blackpool manager's job and is expected on the Fylde coast for talks this morning.

They claim the 42-year-old has agreed basic terms with Karl Oyston and his contract is currently in the hands of lawyers with the hope a deal could be sealed as early as today.

With the Seasiders rooted to the bottom of the Championship, Clark could be in for a rough ride.

Balotelli squares up to Shelvey

Reuters

Of course, it wouldn't be like Mario Balotelli to get through an entire evening without a hint of controversy, and though the Liverpool striker was only on the pitch for fifteen minutes, he wasted no time in making the acquaintance of Swansea midfielder Jonjo Shelvey.

The two players had a heated exchange and had to be separated by team-mates at the end of the match, the Daily Mail reports.

Balotelli, of course, had the last laugh with his crucial equaliser in Liverpool's 2-1 victory.

Get involved

Webster's tache: Julian Speroni at Palace. gaffe prone when he started. 4 times player of the year since. Eagles legend forever.

Jack Cummins: Jesper Gronkjaer for Chelsea after scoring against Liverpool which gave us Champions League football and Abramovich.

Nathan: Xabi Alonso for 5 seconds in champions league final for Liverpool, missed a peno then scored the rebound.

FA Cup or El Clasico?

Playing in the FA Cup or going to the Bernebeu to watch El Clasico. Tough choice.

According to the Herts Advertiser, St Albans City striker John Frendo missed Saturday's FA Cup defeat to Concord Rangers to attend Real Madrid's win over Barcelona. Perhaps he knew a defeat was coming?

Jake Carroll

Huddersfield's Partick Thistle loanee Jake Carroll on Twitter: "Enjoyed training in just my hat and snood today."

No, that isn't a ripped body you see. The Partick youngster was made to don a onesie during training yesterday after being deemed the worst trainer in recent sessions. Not exactly going to help his performance is it?

Aldridge hails Balotelli impact

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Liverpool legend John Aldridge has praised Mario Balotelli on BBC Radio 5 Live after the striker helped inspire a Liverpool turnaround against Swansea in the Carling Cup last night.

"It's nice to be talking good things about the lad," Aldridge said. "The eyes of the world seem to be on him at the moment for the wrong reasons. But it was a good substitution by the manager and he turned things around with a nice little finish."

Aldridge believes Liverpool may need to pair Balotelli with a strike partner to get the best out of the Italian.

"He does struggle when he's up front on his own," he said. "He does come alive when he's up alongside someone. I think for future reference they may have to look at that."

BBC Radio 5 live

Mark Chapman and Kevin Kilbane react to a goal-filled night in the Capital One Cup on the BBC Radio 5 live podcast. You can also hear reaction from Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho as they edge past Shrewsbury, plus happy Bournemouth fans and Eddie Howe after they beat West Brom.

Time for a break from work? Why not give it a listen?

Top video content

Short of something to watch? Not any more, take a look at some of the BBC Sport videos suggested underneath.

Football: Former goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel recalls his Manchester United v Manchester City memories.

FA Cup: 50 memorable goals. Watch Charlie George's extra-time strike in the 1971 final.

Football: Highlights as Rangers progress to the semi-finals of the Scottish League Cup after a narrow victory over Premiership visitors St Johnstone.

Baggies boss Irvine 'devastated' by League Cup exit

West Bromwich Albion head coach Alan Irvine says he feels "absolutely devastated" for the Baggies fans following their 2-1 defeat at Championship side Bournemouth in the last 16 of the League Cup.

Irvine made 10 changes to his starting line-up from Saturday's draw against Crystal Palace, but he believes not enough of the fringe players brought in seized their opportunity to impress.

"It wasn't a team of kids put out there," Irvine said. "It was a team that if they played to the best of their ability, they should have got a result. They need to grab those opportunities."

Robinson 'disappointed' as Dons Cup run ends

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MK Dons boss Karl Robinson was crestfallen after seeing his side's League Cup odyssey ended by two goals from Sheffield United's Michael Higdon.

"It's disappointing," Robinson told BBC Three Counties Radio. "I've said to the players we need to take care of the finer details. Switching off at a set-piece is stupid and silly and we need to learn from that."

His Sheffield United counterpart Nigel Clough was delighted, however, hailing his side's "incredible achievement".

Get involved

Faseeh Warind: Players who transformed opinions? Aaron Ramsey, hands down.

Peter Collins: Hero to zero to hero to zero and so on... The story of Luiz Suarez's career!

Matt Love: Luka Modric was voted the worst purchase in Real Madrid's history a couple of years ago and now he's one of their best!

With Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli being the Reds' League Cup hero last night, we are asking who has gone from zero to hero in sport? Send your suggestions to #zerostoheroes or post on BBC Sport Facebook,

Sheffield Wednesday

Sheffield Wednesday on Twitter: RIP Klas Ingesson (1968-2014).

The former Sheffield Wednesday and Bari midfielder was diagnosed with incurable cancer in 2009 but continued to manage at Swedish top flight side Elfsborg. He died today aged 46.

Ingesson dies aged 46

Former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Klas Ingesson has died aged 46.

The former Sweden midfielder, who played at the 1990 and 1994 World Cups, was diagnosed with incurable cancer in 2009.

He played 57 times for Sweden, taking part in two World Cups and reaching the semi-finals at the 1994 tournament in the United States. He also played at the 1992 European Championship.

Ingesson also played for PSV Eindhoven, Marseille and Bari.

Howe's Bournemouth delight

BBC

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe says beating Premier League West Brom last night was the best feeling he's had in football.

"Nothing beats this feeling," he said after Callum Wilson secured a late 2-1 win. "After some dark days for the club in the past, to be in a quarter-final, is fantastic."

Howe says he doesn't care who the Cherries face in the last eight.

"When you haven't been at this stage of the cup before, you don't care who you get," he said. "We'd love a home game, but who we get at home, we'll take whoever."

McClaren backs Symons for Fulham job

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It was a good night for Championship leaders Derby last night as they completed an emphatic recovery against Fulham to book their place in the quarter-finals of the League Cup.

The 5-2 defeat was a bitter blow to resurgent Fulham, who were 2-0 up shortly before half-time.

However, Derby boss Steve McClaren was in magnanimous mood and has backed Fulham caretaker Kit Symons for the permanent manager's job, according to the Daily Star.

McClaren said: "He has steadied the ship and got the players playing for him. If they don't give him the job I will be surprised."

Life in the old Drog yet

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Chelsea striker Didier Drogba on Twitter: "Difficult conditions, great opposition team but we still showed great spirit to qualify for the next round."

There is life in the old drog yet. The 36-year-old scored his third goal in as many games to help edge Chelsea into the League Cup quarter-final at the expense of League Two Shrewsbury. The 2-1 win was far from comfortable and left boss Jose Mourinho questioning some of his fringe players.

Real Madrid press conference

Ancelotti says Gareth Bale has "a small injury" and won't start tonight. But he bristles at suggestions that the Welshman is falling down Real's pecking order.

"It looks like many people have forgotten that Bale scored in the Champions League and FA Cup finals," he says. "He is as important as Isco and James." So there.

Real Madrid press conference

However, Real are still fielding a strong-looking side, featuring Ballon D'Or nominees Karim Benzema and James Rodriguez, as well as Isco, who's been in excellent form of late.

"The Copa del Rey has given us a lot of success," Ancelotti says. "We have to play a serious game & give minutes to some players."

Ancelotti also defends Barcelona's Xavi against accusations of sour grapes after he said Real "live off counter-attacks" following their 3-1 win in El Clasico. "I don't think Xavi's comments were disrespectful," he says. "It's just the opinion of a footballer."

Real Madrid press conference

Real Madrid are holding a press conference right now ahead of their Copa del Rey match against Cornella this evening.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirms that Sergio Ramos, Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casillas, Toni Kroos & Luka Modric will all be rested for the game against third-tier opposition.

Murray in action later

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Fancy some live sporting action with your lunch? You're in luck, because at around 13:00 GMT Andy Murray is taking on France's Julien Benneteau in the second round of the Paris Masters, and you can keep abreast of it right here on Sportsday.

Remember, Murray needs to win his first two matches to be absolutely assured of qualifying for the season-ending World Tour Finals in London, but has a good chance of making it anyway depending on other results.

We will focus on Murray's match in detail, as well as making sure you miss nothing elsewhere in the world of sport.

Harlequins sign Swiel

Harlequins have signed fly-half Tim Swiel from South-African side the Sharks.

The 21-year-old joins on an initial short-term deal as injury cover for Ben Botica.

Swiel is English-qualified and turned down selection for South Africa U20s to keep his international options open.

Latest gossip

Here are some of the other stories making today's newspapers......

Daily Express: Manchester United could bring former Arsenal and Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole, 33, back to the Premier League from Roma.

Daily Star: Gareth Bale could be available to Manchester United for £90m as Real Madrid team-mate Isco's impressive recent form has edged the 25-year-old Welshman out of the first XI.

Daily Mirror: Aston Villa are considering making an offer to local rivals Wolves for winger Bakary Sako, 26.

For a full round up of today's newspapers, see the BBC Sport gossip page here.

The back pages

The Sun

I hope Ed Sheeran was worth it Mark? The Sun is reporting Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg has been dropped from this weekend's matches partly because he broke regulations by travelling alone to West Bromwich Albion's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace last Saturday so he could make it back to Newcastle in time to attend a Sheeran concert.

Get involved

The Balotelli bandwagon many appear to be jumping on today got us thinking about footballers who have managed to turn opinions around.

Can you think of a player, or manager, who has gone from zero to hero - or vice versa - at your club? What about in other sports? Send your suggestions to #zerostoheroes or post on BBC Sport Facebook,

"Finally"!

Mario Balotelli's celebratory tweet probably echoed the mood of Liverpool fans from around the globe following his League Cup intervention against Swansea at Anfield last night.

The Italian has struggled for goals, been panned in the media and faced criticism from his manager and supporters but was the toast of Merseyside as he came off the bench to help Liverpool stage an late comeback.

Could this be the moment Mario's fortunes change at Anfield? You would think so glancing at today's back pages but, as we are all too well aware, things can change very quickly.

Ronaldo out on his own

AS

In Spain, AS aren't keeping anyone guessing about their Ballon D'Or favourite. Their headline reads 'Cristiano and 22 others' - a reference to the 23-man shortlist for the award for the world's best footballer.

While it's Gareth Bale's inclusion that dominates most British newspapers, the Welshman merits just a tiny picture on the front page of the Spanish sports daily, in between Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema.

Let Zidane work!

L'Equipe

Over on the continent, French sports daily L'Equipe pulls no punches with its front page this morning. 'Let him work!' the headline screams, in reference to Zinedine Zidane, who has been suspended from coaching duties at Real Madrid for working without the correct qualifications.

Real are fighting the decision on the basis that Zidane had received an authorisation from the French Football Federation.

The back pages

Daily Express

Don't be fooled into thinking it is all sweetness and light with Mario though - when is it ever?

The Daily Express reports Balotelli had an argument with his team-mates before last night's win over Swansea and then highlights his altercation with Jonjo Shelvey post match.

While the Daily Mirror links Napoli boss Rafa Benitez with a move for the striker in January.

Just face it Mario, you are never going to lead a quiet life.

Daily Mirror

The back pages

The Sun

Why always him?

Just a few days ago, Mario Balotelli was public enemy number one at Liverpool. Now he is the hero.

Today's newspaper back pages are unsurprisingly full of his contribution from the substitutes bench after he came off the substitutes bench to fire the Reds in the League Cup quarter-final.

How long his salvation lasts remains to be seen. But, for today at least, it looks as though he is 'Super Mario'.

The Guardian

First though, why not take a glance at some of the stories making the back pages of today's newspapers? It won't surprise you to see a certain Mario Balotelli stealing a lot of the headlines.....

Good morning and welcome to another edition of Sportsday Live.

We will have plenty of League Cup action for you with the build up to tonight's three fourth-round matches after last night's games, plus all the other news making the headlines in the 'beautiful game'.

You will also be kept abreast of the breaking news elsewhere in the world of sport, including Andy Murray in action in the Paris Masters, and the best of today's social media.

Sit back, put the kettle on and enjoy.

PA

Last-minute drama, unlikely heroes, cup upsets and goals galore.

Last night's League Cup action certainly delivered and the good news is there is more to come.

Who says the competition has lost its magic?