The Amazonian capital joins Rio, Belo Horizonte, Brasilia, Sao Paulo and Salvador.
Fifa and the Brazilian Football Confederation will decide on which cities to use by March.
Sixteen men's teams and 12 women's teams will take part in the competition.
Bottas wants more improvement from Williams
Formula 1
EPACopyright: EPA
Valtteri Bottas concedes Williams face "a big challenge" if they are to push Mercedes for this year's Formula One world championship.
The team finished third in the constructors' standings last season and want to consolidate this season.
"We are determined to do better," said the Finn. "But now the difficult part starts because to move up from third in the constructors' is not that simple.
"We know it's a big challenge, but we are definitely ready for it. As a team we improved so much last year, and now it's a new year we need to make sure we start at the same level we finished last season, and then build from that."
Mignolet coping with pressure
Football
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Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet insists he does not feel the pressure which comes with the scrutiny of virtually each one of his performances, despite being dropped earlier in the season.
"Day in, day out you are in the spotlight but the main job is to focus on the football," he said.
"You are always going to be under pressure but it is our job and you get used to it.
"It is not really pressure, it is something you enjoy as everyone likes to play in front of a big crowd."
Little offers to help Villa
Football
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Former Aston Villa manager Brian Little, who was the last man to lead the club to a major trophy, has been speaking to BBC Sport about the current situation at Villa Park.
"I'm not sure I would want to be the football manager at the club. I would love to help out in some capacity but I think at the moment the job is for someone who is very current and someone who is right in amongst it.
"Their main choice now is whether it's a short term appointment to make sure we stay up or is it a long term appointment."
Football
John-Joe's big day
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His name is one you don't easily forget when you look out for goalscorers and match-winners in the football league and now Northampton Town's John-Joe O'Toole is getting a day named after him.
This Saturday - more than 1,000 Cobblers fans will don wigs in honour of the 26-year-old midfielder for their League Two trip to Mansfield.
Added to that, the occasion has already gone viral via #JJOTDAY
Fan Dan Pearce had initially suggested the idea of John-Joe O'Toole Day to friends on Facebook and told BBC Sport: "We'd have still done it if there were six or seven of us. We'd have just looked like idiots."
Leto to undergo surgery
Football
Former Liverpool winger Sebastian Leto will undergo surgery in the next 48 hours after a freak gym accident.
The 28-year-old currently plays for Argentine side Lanus but signed for the Merseyside club in 2007 although he did not play a Premier League game due to passport issues.
He fractured his skull when he was struck on the head by a piece of exercise equipment and was placed in intensive care when the extent of his injuries were revealed.
A club statement read: "Yesterday, Sebastian Leto, during routine work in the gym, suffered an accident with head trauma, leaving a wound in his scalp. He was treated at the club, [however] an hour after consultation with the medical team he complained of a headache and was evaluated again."
The 19-year-old, who has already had four previous loan spells in his short career, will be eligible to play in this weekend's League One Midlands derby at Walsall.
Carroll injury update
Football
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West Ham striker Andy Carroll has had a scan on the knee injury he suffered during Wednesday's draw at Southampton.
The results are due on Friday and it is likely Hammers boss Sam Allardyce will give an update on his injury during his press conference, which is scheduled for 09:30 GMT.
Carroll left St Mary's Stadium on crutches after the 0-0 draw.
The 43-year-old has led Chiefs to the top level of European cup rugby in 2013-13 and 2013-14, but they failed to qualify this year after an eighth-placed Premiership finish
"We want to get back into the top-flight European competition. That's very important for us as a club going forwards," Baxter, whose side are currently fifth in the Premiership, told BBC Radio Devon.
"We're ambitious enough to want to be (in the Champions Cup) on a regular basis."
LTA recruit for success
Tennis
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The LTA have appointed three new members of staff, all who have achieved success in other sports to help bring through more players who can compete on the world stage, according to a report in the Telegraph
Steve McGregor, a sports scientist best known for refining the fitness regimes of two hugely successful golfers: Lee Westwood and Rory McIlroy has been appointed along with Peter Keen - who was the performance director of British cycling.
Australian Chelsea Warr, who previously ran the performance side of British swimming completes the trio.
More on the FA Charge
Football
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A statement issued by the FA said: "Both Chelsea and Everton have been charged by The FA for failing to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and/or refrained from provocative behaviour.
"It follows an incident in the 86th minute of Wednesday night's game at Stamford Bridge.
"Both clubs have until 6pm on 17 February 2015 to respond to the charge."
FA Charge for Chelsea & Everton
Football
Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic will face no further action over the incident with Everton midfielder James McCarthy, during Wednesday's Premier League match at Stamford Bridge.
But Chelsea and Everton have both been charged with failing to control their players.
Reaction to Ramsey's appointment
Football
QPR midfielder Joey Barton: Good news also on Chris Ramsey. V good since he has come in. Got group back on track. Lots for us all to do now to keep club in the league.
City will not give up on title - Kompany
Football
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Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany insists the champions will never give up on the title despite trailing Chelsea by seven points at the top of the Premier League table.
"Belief never goes. Past experiences should give us enough confidence to carry on and go for it," said the Belgian after Wednesday's 4-1 win over Stoke City.
"It has happened before. The belief is always there, that is never the problem, even when form is not the best. But performances like this make us not need to talk so much. It makes it obvious we are a good team and that is what we need to show."
More on Lambert's sacking
Pat Murphy
BBC Radio 5 live
"Paul Lambert learned of his sacking by phone yesterday afternoon and that's why he pointedly didn't refer in his statement to the man who made that call, Tom Fox, Villa's chief executive."
Get involved - sporting egos
#bbcsportsday
Earlier we asked for your suggestions of who has the biggest ego is sport, and there have been plenty coming in on #bbcsportsday
Ian Wilkinson: Mario Balotelli, when he was at Man City he called himself the best player in world
Jemmett Fox: Biggest ego in sport - a tie between Fernando Alonso and Nicklas Bendtner. Alonso can back it up though.
Sanchez hoping for quick return
Football
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Arsenal striker Alexis Sanchez is expected to be fit for Sunday's FA Cup tie against Middlesbrough despite suffering a bang to his knee during his side's win over Leicester on Tuesday.
But Aaron Ramsey is undergoing tests on a hamstring strain picked up in the same game and is set to miss the next two weeks at least.
Thursday's Super League team news
Rugby League
Full-back Kevin Locke is a late addition to the Salford 19-man squad, taking the place of an ill Jay Walton, but remains 50-50 after missing the opening game with a groin injury.
Jordan Walne and Lama Tasi are vying to plug the gap created by the loss of second rower Weller Hauraki to suspension.
St Helens coach Keiron Cunningham sticks with the team that beat Catalans Dragons, with new skipper Jon Wilkin continuing at scrum-half in the absence of the injured Luke Walsh.
From 19:30 GMT there is Super League action on 5 live sports extra with Salford hosting last year's Grand Final winners St Helens.
Commentary comes from Dave Woods and John Kear and there will also be chat from a host of Super League players and coaches.
Kristoff wins fifth stage in Tour of Qatar
Road Cycling
Norway's Alexander Kristoff won his third stage in the Tour of Qatar, after claiming Thursday's fifth stage.
The Katusha rider, who also won stages two and four, triumphed in a sprint finish at the end of the 153km stage from Al Zubarah Fort to Madinat Al Shamal.
Dutch rider Niki Terpstra retains the overall lead, six seconds clear of Poland's Maciej Bodnar.
The pair, who won seven Ashes series between them, join former Baggy Green team-mates Steve Waugh, Shane Warne and Ricky Ponting in being honoured by MCC, who own Lord's and are custodians of the laws of the game.
Scots relegated after play-off loss
Wheelchair Curling
Scotland's wheelchair curlers have lost 6-3 to Germany in their relegation play-off at the World Championships in Finland.
The Scots led 3-1 after three ends against a team who they had beaten 12-2 in the round-robin phase, but the Germans hit back after that, scoring in the next three ends to help seal victory.
It means Scotland, who won Winter Paralympic bronze last year while representing Great Britain, will have to go through qualification for next year's Worlds in Switzerland.
"Australia seam bowler Mitchell Starc is among them and England will have to contend with his inswinging yorkers in their opening match in Melbourne on Saturday."
The 30-year-old left-arm seamer has played 42 Twenty20 internationals.
Tanvir has previously played in England with Hampshire and is well known to the Somerset director of cricket Matthew Maynard, after the pair worked together in the Caribbean Premier League.
Murray through in Rotterdam
Tennis
Andy Murray has won his second-round match at the World Tennis Tournament against Canada's Vasek Pospisil in straight sets 6-3 7-5.
It took the British number one an hour and 43 minutes to progress to the quarter-final where he will meet French number eight seed Gilles Simon.
Full report to follow shortly.
New deals for Bath pair
Rugby Union
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Stepping away from football for a second and Bath back-rowers Alafoti Fa'osiliva and David Sisi have signed new contracts.
Samoa international Fa'osiliva, 29, arrived at the Rec in 2013 and has made 18 Premiership appearances.
Sisi, 22, also signed at the start of last season from London Irish, shortly after winning the Junior World Championship with England Under 20s.
Bath have also confirmed academy lock Tom Ellis has joined Yorkshire Carnegie on loan for the rest of the season.
Taylor to referee Capital One Cup final
Football
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Anthony Taylor will be the referee for this year's Capital One Cup final between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, 1 March at Wembley.
The 36-year-old from Greater Manchester was fourth official to Andre Marriner in the 2013 FA Cup Final at Wembley.
Get involved - sporting egos
#bbcsportsday
We asked you to tell us who you think has the biggest ego in sport. Here's some of your suggestions from #bbcsportsday
Alex Barreto: Biggest ego in sport? Easy. Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
APCopyright: AP
Ross Phillips: Easy question @Carl_Froch
Alan Simon: If you count chairmen and ex-chairmen, Alan Sugar has the biggest ego in sport. Arrogance doesn't even begin to sum him up.
Debut to forget for Anderson
Football
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While his former Manchester United team-mates were dispatching Burnley 3-1 at Old Trafford, Anderson was having a less-than-successful start to life at new club Internacional in Brazil on Wednesday.
Up against Cruziero, the game was goalless when the midfielder was handed a chance to score from a penalty.
QPR lost 1-0 to Southampton in Ramsey's first game in charge but they recorded their first away win of the season on Tuesday when they beat Sunderland 2-0.
"I can't understand it. I have been privileged to watch him play for 20-odd years," he said.
"He was the best of his generation by a distance. It's like watching Roger Federer or Phil Taylor; they are just masters of their trade.
"What I don't understand is that he has always appeared to have such a strong mind and overcome all sorts of difficulties on the golf course. He produced shots that I couldn't believe.
"So now for people to tell me that his mind is disintegrating and he can't chip and he has got the twitch, I find it very difficult to understand."
Evans has been unable to return to training as yet and may not be passed fit for the Worlds which take place in Panorama, Canada from 1-10 March.
GB name team for Para-cycling Worlds
Cycling
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Dame Sarah Storey and fellow reigning world champions Jody Cundy, Sophie Thornhill, Neil Fachie and Pete Mitchell have all been included in the 14-strong Great Britain team for next month's UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in Apeldoorn, Netherlands.
Storey is aiming to break the women's hour record later this month.
Newcomers Megan Giglia, Louis Rolfe and injured ex-serviceman Jaco van Gass all get call-ups for the event.
Both sides finished with three wins from their nine round-robin games and the loser of the match will be relegated, along with Sweden and Norway.
Scotland defeated the Germans 12-2 in their opening match of the tournament.
Fun and games
Football
Adam Williams-OnlineCopyright: Adam Williams-Online
Why not take a few minutes out from your lunch break to try an old favourite - and don't worry - this one's definitely not just for kids as I've had a few goes myself already.
Our friends at CBBC's MOTD Kickabout have combined the classic Spot The Ball game with pictures of this week's Premier League matches.
Try and spot the ball from the five action shots and see how many you get. Share your scores via #bbcsportsday
Murray ready for action
Tennis
Andy Murray is about to take to the court in Rotterdam at the World Tennis Tournament.
Murray, the top seed in the Netherlands, faces Canada's Vasek Pospisil, the world number 59 in the second round of the tournament.
A few more names get a mention here via #bbcsportsday as we ask who should Aston Villa appoint next following Paul Lambert's sacking?
Catherine Faulks: Paolo Di Canio is out of work or Nigel Clough!
James Beagrie: If we want to stay up and be a better club, don't get Sean Dyche, it's another recipe for disaster! We need a proven manager!
Mark Jackson: Next Villa manager Steve Nicol maybe? Good links with the MLS and deserves a chance surely?
Hazard signs new Chelsea deal
ReutersCopyright: Reuters
Hazard, who was the club's Player of the Year last season, has scored 13 times in 36 appearances so far this season.
"Since I came here in 2012 I have always felt good and the club has been very supportive to me," said the Belgian. "The manager has helped me improve a lot, the fans have been fantastic and I have an amazing understanding with my team-mates.
"I always try to give pleasure to the supporters with my style of play and it is nice to know they appreciate my work.
"I hope we can repay that support by winning lots of trophies, beginning with the Capital One Cup at Wembley, and after that, we can push hard towards the end of the season."
BreakingBREAKING NEWS
Football
Chelsea's Eden Hazard has signed a new five-and-a-half year contract with the Stamford Bridge club.
The 24-year-old has been at the club since 2012, making 147 appearances and scoring 43 goals.
Villa need fresh approach - Bent
Football
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Striker Darren Bent believes Aston Villa will benefit from a fresh approach after Paul Lambert's sacking and backed the club to stay up.
"I think maybe they just need a fresh approach really. I don't know who they have got in mind to become their new manager but someone needs to go in there with a bit of freshness, mix things up a little bit, and just try something new - it might give the whole place a lift, including the supporters, the staff, everyone associated with the club."
The 35-year-old has also been handed a one-game suspended ban until the end of the current season.
A notice of complaint from the governing body accused Simonsen of betting on 55 football matches over two separate periods.
Both Simonsen and the SFA can appeal against the judgement.
Wilson ruled out of Six Nations
Rugby Union
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England prop David Wilson has been ruled out of the Six Nations by a neck injury and will be sidelined for 10 to 12 weeks, England head coach Stuart Lancaster has confirmed.
The Bath player missed last weekend's win over Wales and will undergo an operation on Friday on a nerve impingement in his neck
Behind England's World Cup woes
Cricket
Simon Hughes
The Analyst, BBC Test Match Special
BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport
"Watch my short video ahead of the start of the Cricket World Cup on Saturday explaining why England's performance during the final overs of one-day internationals holds the side back.
"I also examine how England could learn from other teams in the tournament and where their strengths will lie.
"England face Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday (03:30 GMT) in the first of their six group matches."
Bentaleb in contract talks
Football
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The London Evening Standard reports that Spurs midfielder Nabil Bentaleb is in talks over a new contract at the club that is expected to double his salary.
The 20-year-old is likely to follow in the footsteps of Harry Kane and Ryan Mason by agreeing a deal more reflective of his status as a key first-team player at White Hart Lane.
Bentaleb's current deal, believed to be worth between £8-10,000 a week, runs until the end of the 2017-18 season but was signed in October 2013, before he had made a first-team appearance.
United release latest figures
Football
Simon Stone
BBC Sport
Manchester United have reported a 12.2% drop in revenue to £194.4m from £221.4m for the six months to the end of 2014.
The club's gross debt is up 6.7% to £380.5m from £356.6m.
Concussion numbers rise
Rugby Union
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Greater awareness of head injuries has led to a rise in the reporting of concussionsImage caption: Greater awareness of head injuries has led to a rise in the reporting of concussions
Pulis was caught short by a prank phone caller earlier this week, who claimed to be the Bolton manager, and asked if he could sign defender Gareth McAuley on loan.
Speaking ahead of his side's Premier League clash against Swansea on Wednesday, the West Brom manager joked about the prank as Neil dropped by as a studio guest.
The 25-year-old Netherlands international picked up the injury in the 2-0 win against Sunderland on Tuesday, where he also opened the scoring for The Hoops.
@LeroyFer10Copyright: @LeroyFer10
He tweeted the above picture on Wednesday night and said: Always keep your head up and smile... Thanks everyone for the support! I'll work hard to come back stronger!
Former Arsenal and Celtic striker John Hartson told BBC Sport the eye-watering amount is "not far off".
"There will be a player one day earning £1m a week, I have no doubt about that," he said.
"In 2020 the money will rise again. That's the way it's going. When some people can't afford bread and milk and there's a recession going on, it's frightening."
Get involved - Who next for Villa?
#bbcsportsday
A few more names who could replace Paul Lambert as Aston Villa manager from your suggestions on #bbcsportsday
Andy Booth: It's time for a club legend to sweep in and gloriously keep them up. That man is Dion Dublin.
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Joshua O'Jarrett: Rafa Benitez should replace him, only if the right contract is handed to him though, quality manager and is proven in the PL.
David Watson: Michael Laudrup with Villa legend Martin Laursen would be a great combination. Otherwise Eddie Howe or Jurgen Klingsmann.
Murray back in action in Rotterdam
Tennis
APCopyright: AP
Britain's Andy Murray is back in action at the World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam later on Thursday.
Murray, the top seed, takes on Canadian world number 59 Vasek Pospisil in the third match on court.
We'll keep you posted with how he gets on later.
Sherwood in the frame
Football
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Tim Sherwood has a genuine chance of being appointed Aston Villa's next manager following Paul Lambert's dismissal on Wednesday night, reports BBC WM 95.6.
Sherwood, 46, has been mentioned in connection with almost every managerial vacancy since leaving Tottenham Hotspur at the end of last season.
But, although Sean Dyche, Glenn Hoddle, Michael Laudrup and Jurgen Klinsmann have all been mentioned, Sherwood is the favourite with most bookmakers.
Borehamwood-born Sherwood finished his playing career in the Midlands with Coventry City 10 years ago.
'Woods in decline'
Golf
Iain Carter
BBC Sport golf correspondent
APCopyright: AP
"What we can now say is that we're witnessing the decline of Tiger Woods.
"He's had an awful lot of time off. It's clear that his body is frail, he needs to find a new way to swing the golf club to make sure that he doesn't injure himself in the future and as a result of that he's lost form.
"So he's finding himself in a vicious circle. You wonder if this might be the beginning of the end, or the middle of the end.
"Next month or so will be very interesting. If he makes himself competitive again then it will be one of the greatest successes of his career.
"If he doesn't then these sorts of questions will be asked with louder and louder voices."
Woods, 39, withdrew injured from last week's event at Torrey Pines after just 12 holes, having missed the cut at the Phoenix Open the week before.
"I need a lot of work on my game and to spend time with people that are important to me," said the American. "I enter a tournament to compete at the highest level. When I think I'm ready, I'll be back."
European back pages
Football
MarcaCopyright: Marca
Over in Spain, the man making the front page of sports paper Marca is Porto right-back Danilo Luiz da Silva.
The 23-year-old Brazilian is stalling on signing a new contract with the Portuguese club in order to force a summer move to Real Madrid, according to the paper.
But Real look like they will have to stump up a fee of 20m euros to secure his signature.
Get involved - Villa candidates?
#bbcsportsday
A few more thoughts from Aston Villa fans on #bbcsportsday on who should succeed Paul Lambert as manager.
Christopher Phillips: Lerner should beg for Martin O'Neill to return!
Gillen Reid: Zdenek Zeman would put the cat amongst the pigeons. He is known to work well with youngsters, which is what Lambert tried.
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James Kay: I'd like an interim manager with Premier League experience, one who can focus on keeping us in the league. Maybe a return for Houllier?
It means the 34-year-old midfielder is likely to be a major doubt for Saturday's FA Cup fifth round tie at Crystal Palace and his side's Europa League games against Besiktas.
European back pages
Football
L'EquipeCopyright: L'Equipe
Time to take a look at what's making sporting headlines on the continent now and in France, national coach Didier Deschamps is the main story in L'Equipe.
The former Chelsea midfielder and 1998 World Cup winner has extended his contract in charge of Les Blues until the end of the 2018 World Cup.
"I'd like to thank Randy Lerner for not only providing me with the opportunity to manage one of the most illustrious clubs in world football but also for the support and friendship he offered me throughout my time at the club.
"To the players, my sincere thanks to each and every one of them. They are a fantastic group of players and I wish them every success for the rest of their playing careers. I hope to see many of them achieve great things in the game.
"Finally, I pay tribute to the supporters who are among the most passionate I have ever encountered. They rightly hold huge expectations for their beloved football club and I sincerely hope they are rewarded with the success they deserve. I completely understand their frustrations and always shared their view that the football club is too big not to be competing at the top end of the table. I hope that can happen."
"I'm extremely proud to have managed Aston Villa," he said. "When I came on board the club's owner, Randy Lerner, warned me that I was embarking on the toughest challenge of my working life and he was not wrong.
"But I have never stepped away from hard work and I put my heart and soul into the job from my first day until my last.
"You never stop learning in football management and I certainly believe the invaluable experience from my time as Villa manager will prove hugely beneficial in the next stage of my managerial career."
West Brom 2-0 Swansea
Football
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Rounding off the Premier League action from Wednesday where West Brom moved four points clear of the relegation zone as goals from Brown Ideye and Saido Berahino secured victory against Swansea.
"The new Aston Villa manager will be recommended by the chief executive Tom Fox, with the owner Randy Lerner prepared to rubberstamp his decision. Lerner will not be part of the interview process.
"Lerner operates out of New York and is hardly ever in Birmingham, as he comes to rely more and more on the advice of his fellow-American whom he appointed as CEO last September. It was Fox who recommended Lambert should be sacked after Tuesday night's defeat at Hull.
"Fox will take soundings from Villa's director of recruitment Paddy Reilly and an inner circle of trusted colleagues before moving in on a target. Coaching expertise will be essential - Villa were short in that area during Lambert's tenure - and they won't be put off if their preferred candidate is with another club.
"Although time is on Villa's side in that their next Premier League game is not until a week on Saturday when they are at home to Stoke City, Fox will want a swift appointment."
West Ham are considering a move for 26-year-old Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez - who is on loan at Real Madrid - according to Spanish paper AS, reports the Daily Star.
The Daily Mirror reports that Southampton striker Dani Osvaldo has ended his Premier League nightmare by signing for boyhood club Boca Juniors in Argentina - his fourth different club in 13 months.
And also in the Mirror, Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has been crowned the hottest player in the Premier League following a poll of American women. Burnley topped the overall league of attractiveness, with the hottest team overall.
Lancaster happy to name unchanged team
Rugby Union
England head coach Stuart Lancaster on his team selection: "It's always good to be able to name an unchanged team and to build some consistency. We did the same last year after France heading into the Scotland game.
"Italy are going to be fired up, they always are when they come to Twickenham, especially after last week's loss to Ireland. We know what's coming at us but we have prepared well and are looking forward to getting back home and playing in front of our fantastic supporters."
BreakingBREAKING NEWS
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England have named an unchanged side to face Italy in Saturday's Six Nations game.
It means Bath's Jonathan Joseph and George Kruis of Saracens will make their first Twickenham starts after playing in last Friday's 21-16 win over Wales in Cardiff.
Andy Balbirnie's unbeaten 63 steered Ireland home after new-ball pair John Mooney and Max Sorensen claimed three wickets each to bowl out the Tigers for 189.
It was Ireland's first win since they arrived in Australia last week and provided a much-needed lift ahead of their opening group game against West Indies in Nelson on 16 February.
The 33-year-old is likely to be fit enough to play in Australia's second game, against Bangladesh in Brisbane on 21 February.
He made a half century on Wednesday, captaining Australia for the first time in two months as they won their final World Cup warm-up game against the United Arab Emirates.
Clarke has been continuing his recovery from a hamstring strain sustained in a Test match against India in December.
Away from Wednesday night's action for a moment and let's focus on the news that manager Paul Lambert has been sacked by Aston Villa, who find themselves in the relegation zone and without a win in 10 Premier League matches.
Villa have managed just 12 league goals from 25 games - the lowest in Premier League history.
First-team coach Scott Marshall and goalkeeping coach Andy Marshall have taken temporary charge with 13 league matches remaining.
But despite the defeat, which keeps them in the bottom three, Burnley manager Sean Dyche was still proud of his side's efforts.
Stoke City 1-4 Manchester City
Football
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Manchester City stayed in touch with Chelsea after two goals from Sergio Aguero helped them to a 4-1 win at Stoke.
City manager Manuel Pellegrini said his side returned to their "normal performance" for their first Premier League win since New Year's Day.
His opposite number Mark Hughes admitted his side got caught "chasing the game".
Chelsea 1-0 Everton
Football
ReutersCopyright: Reuters
Let's go back to Wednesday night's Premier League action for a while and Chelsea stay seven points clear at the top of the table after a late Willian goal sealed a 1-0 win over Everton.
But afterwards, Everton manager Roberto Martinez accused Chelsea's players of trying to sway the referee during the bad tempered encounter which saw Gareth Barry sent off and Branislav Ivanovic escape censure for a clash with Everton's James McCarthy.
"It's very clear that what the home team are trying to do is influence the referee," Martinez told BBC Sport.
And finally on the back pages for the moment, in the light of Tuesday's record television deal, Thursday's Guardian looks at how Premier League clubs could best use their new found wealth.
Thursday's back pages
Football
The SunCopyright: The Sun
The Sun's back page also says that Crystal Palace could be in trouble with the FA after Newcastle's Fabricio Coloccini was struck on the head by a coin at Selhurst Park last night.
Thursday's back pages
Football
Daily MirrorCopyright: Daily Mirror
The Daily Mirror reports that Paul Lambert could land a £10m pay-off after his dismissal by Aston Villa and Steven Gerrard will miss Liverpool's FA Cup trip to Crystal Palace and both Europa League games against Besiktas with a hamstring injury.
Thursday's back pages
Football
Daily ExpressCopyright: Daily Express
The back page of the Daily Express reports on Wednesday night's bad-tempered match between Chelsea and Everton and also the dismissal of Paul Lambert as Aston Villa struggle in the relegation zone.
Wednesday's Premier League results
Football
We'll have more on Paul Lambert's sacking as Aston Villa manager shortly and a look at Thursday's back pages, but first a quick recap of last night's Premier League matches:
Chelsea 1-0 Everton
Manchester United 3-1 Burnley
Southampton 0-0 West Ham
Stoke 1-4 Manchester City
Crystal Palace 1-1 Newcastle
West Brom 2-0 Swansea
Sportsday
Good morning and welcome to another Sportsday from the BBC Sport Centre.
It's been a busy 12 hours or so with Premier League matches and a managerial sacking and there is plenty coming up today as well, so let's get going...
Live Reporting
Elizabeth Hudson and Adam Williams
All times stated are UK
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Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images Greater awareness of head injuries has led to a rise in the reporting of concussionsImage caption: Greater awareness of head injuries has led to a rise in the reporting of concussions 
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- Manchester United 3-1 Burnley
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- Crystal Palace 1-1 Newcastle
- West Brom 2-0 Swansea
Latest PostOlympic football venues grow
Football
The number of cities bidding to host football matches in the 2016 Olympics has been increased from five to six to include Manaus - a venue England fans will remember from last year's World Cup.
The Amazonian capital joins Rio, Belo Horizonte, Brasilia, Sao Paulo and Salvador.
Fifa and the Brazilian Football Confederation will decide on which cities to use by March.
Sixteen men's teams and 12 women's teams will take part in the competition.
Bottas wants more improvement from Williams
Formula 1
Valtteri Bottas concedes Williams face "a big challenge" if they are to push Mercedes for this year's Formula One world championship.
The team finished third in the constructors' standings last season and want to consolidate this season.
"We are determined to do better," said the Finn. "But now the difficult part starts because to move up from third in the constructors' is not that simple.
"We know it's a big challenge, but we are definitely ready for it. As a team we improved so much last year, and now it's a new year we need to make sure we start at the same level we finished last season, and then build from that."
Mignolet coping with pressure
Football
Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet insists he does not feel the pressure which comes with the scrutiny of virtually each one of his performances, despite being dropped earlier in the season.
"Day in, day out you are in the spotlight but the main job is to focus on the football," he said.
"You are always going to be under pressure but it is our job and you get used to it.
"It is not really pressure, it is something you enjoy as everyone likes to play in front of a big crowd."
Little offers to help Villa
Football
Former Aston Villa manager Brian Little, who was the last man to lead the club to a major trophy, has been speaking to BBC Sport about the current situation at Villa Park.
"I'm not sure I would want to be the football manager at the club. I would love to help out in some capacity but I think at the moment the job is for someone who is very current and someone who is right in amongst it.
"Their main choice now is whether it's a short term appointment to make sure we stay up or is it a long term appointment."
Football
John-Joe's big day
His name is one you don't easily forget when you look out for goalscorers and match-winners in the football league and now Northampton Town's John-Joe O'Toole is getting a day named after him.
This Saturday - more than 1,000 Cobblers fans will don wigs in honour of the 26-year-old midfielder for their League Two trip to Mansfield.
Added to that, the occasion has already gone viral via #JJOTDAY
Fan Dan Pearce had initially suggested the idea of John-Joe O'Toole Day to friends on Facebook and told BBC Sport: "We'd have still done it if there were six or seven of us. We'd have just looked like idiots."
Leto to undergo surgery
Football
Former Liverpool winger Sebastian Leto will undergo surgery in the next 48 hours after a freak gym accident.
The 28-year-old currently plays for Argentine side Lanus but signed for the Merseyside club in 2007 although he did not play a Premier League game due to passport issues.
He fractured his skull when he was struck on the head by a piece of exercise equipment and was placed in intensive care when the extent of his injuries were revealed.
A club statement read: "Yesterday, Sebastian Leto, during routine work in the gym, suffered an accident with head trauma, leaving a wound in his scalp. He was treated at the club, [however] an hour after consultation with the medical team he complained of a headache and was evaluated again."
Palace defender makes fifth loan move
Football
Port Vale have signed teenage Crystal Palace defender Ryan Inniss on a one-month youth loan.
The 19-year-old, who has already had four previous loan spells in his short career, will be eligible to play in this weekend's League One Midlands derby at Walsall.
Carroll injury update
Football
West Ham striker Andy Carroll has had a scan on the knee injury he suffered during Wednesday's draw at Southampton.
The results are due on Friday and it is likely Hammers boss Sam Allardyce will give an update on his injury during his press conference, which is scheduled for 09:30 GMT.
Carroll left St Mary's Stadium on crutches after the 0-0 draw.
Chiefs want 'regular top-six finish'
Rugby Union
Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter says he wants his side to be a "regular" European Champions Cup team.
The 43-year-old has led Chiefs to the top level of European cup rugby in 2013-13 and 2013-14, but they failed to qualify this year after an eighth-placed Premiership finish
"We want to get back into the top-flight European competition. That's very important for us as a club going forwards," Baxter, whose side are currently fifth in the Premiership, told BBC Radio Devon.
"We're ambitious enough to want to be (in the Champions Cup) on a regular basis."
LTA recruit for success
Tennis
The LTA have appointed three new members of staff, all who have achieved success in other sports to help bring through more players who can compete on the world stage, according to a report in the Telegraph
Steve McGregor, a sports scientist best known for refining the fitness regimes of two hugely successful golfers: Lee Westwood and Rory McIlroy has been appointed along with Peter Keen - who was the performance director of British cycling.
Australian Chelsea Warr, who previously ran the performance side of British swimming completes the trio.
More on the FA Charge
Football
A statement issued by the FA said: "Both Chelsea and Everton have been charged by The FA for failing to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and/or refrained from provocative behaviour.
"It follows an incident in the 86th minute of Wednesday night's game at Stamford Bridge.
"Both clubs have until 6pm on 17 February 2015 to respond to the charge."
FA Charge for Chelsea & Everton
Football
Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic will face no further action over the incident with Everton midfielder James McCarthy, during Wednesday's Premier League match at Stamford Bridge.
But Chelsea and Everton have both been charged with failing to control their players.
Reaction to Ramsey's appointment
Football
QPR midfielder Joey Barton: Good news also on Chris Ramsey. V good since he has come in. Got group back on track. Lots for us all to do now to keep club in the league.
City will not give up on title - Kompany
Football
Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany insists the champions will never give up on the title despite trailing Chelsea by seven points at the top of the Premier League table.
"Belief never goes. Past experiences should give us enough confidence to carry on and go for it," said the Belgian after Wednesday's 4-1 win over Stoke City.
"It has happened before. The belief is always there, that is never the problem, even when form is not the best. But performances like this make us not need to talk so much. It makes it obvious we are a good team and that is what we need to show."
More on Lambert's sacking
Pat Murphy
BBC Radio 5 live
"Paul Lambert learned of his sacking by phone yesterday afternoon and that's why he pointedly didn't refer in his statement to the man who made that call, Tom Fox, Villa's chief executive."
Get involved - sporting egos
#bbcsportsday
Earlier we asked for your suggestions of who has the biggest ego is sport, and there have been plenty coming in on #bbcsportsday
Ian Wilkinson: Mario Balotelli, when he was at Man City he called himself the best player in world
Jemmett Fox: Biggest ego in sport - a tie between Fernando Alonso and Nicklas Bendtner. Alonso can back it up though.
Sanchez hoping for quick return
Football
Arsenal striker Alexis Sanchez is expected to be fit for Sunday's FA Cup tie against Middlesbrough despite suffering a bang to his knee during his side's win over Leicester on Tuesday.
But Aaron Ramsey is undergoing tests on a hamstring strain picked up in the same game and is set to miss the next two weeks at least.
Thursday's Super League team news
Rugby League
Full-back Kevin Locke is a late addition to the Salford 19-man squad, taking the place of an ill Jay Walton, but remains 50-50 after missing the opening game with a groin injury.
Jordan Walne and Lama Tasi are vying to plug the gap created by the loss of second rower Weller Hauraki to suspension.
St Helens coach Keiron Cunningham sticks with the team that beat Catalans Dragons, with new skipper Jon Wilkin continuing at scrum-half in the absence of the injured Luke Walsh.
Super League action
Rugby League
BBC Radio 5 live sports extra
From 19:30 GMT there is Super League action on 5 live sports extra with Salford hosting last year's Grand Final winners St Helens.
Commentary comes from Dave Woods and John Kear and there will also be chat from a host of Super League players and coaches.
Kristoff wins fifth stage in Tour of Qatar
Road Cycling
Norway's Alexander Kristoff won his third stage in the Tour of Qatar, after claiming Thursday's fifth stage.
The Katusha rider, who also won stages two and four, triumphed in a sprint finish at the end of the 153km stage from Al Zubarah Fort to Madinat Al Shamal.
Dutch rider Niki Terpstra retains the overall lead, six seconds clear of Poland's Maciej Bodnar.
MCC honour for Aussie pair
Cricket
Yorkshire coach Jason Gillespie and his former Australia team-mate Justin Langer have been awarded honorary life membership of Marylebone Cricket Club.
The pair, who won seven Ashes series between them, join former Baggy Green team-mates Steve Waugh, Shane Warne and Ricky Ponting in being honoured by MCC, who own Lord's and are custodians of the laws of the game.
Scots relegated after play-off loss
Wheelchair Curling
Scotland's wheelchair curlers have lost 6-3 to Germany in their relegation play-off at the World Championships in Finland.
The Scots led 3-1 after three ends against a team who they had beaten 12-2 in the round-robin phase, but the Germans hit back after that, scoring in the next three ends to help seal victory.
It means Scotland, who won Winter Paralympic bronze last year while representing Great Britain, will have to go through qualification for next year's Worlds in Switzerland.
Vaughan's ones to watch
Cricket
Michael Vaughan
BBC Test Match Special
"Take a look at some of my stars to look out for in the upcoming Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand."
"Australia seam bowler Mitchell Starc is among them and England will have to contend with his inswinging yorkers in their opening match in Melbourne on Saturday."
Somerset seal Tanvir signing
Cricket
Some county cricket news for you now and Somerset have signed Pakistan international Sohail Tanvir for next season's T20 Blast.
The 30-year-old left-arm seamer has played 42 Twenty20 internationals.
Tanvir has previously played in England with Hampshire and is well known to the Somerset director of cricket Matthew Maynard, after the pair worked together in the Caribbean Premier League.
Murray through in Rotterdam
Tennis
Andy Murray has won his second-round match at the World Tennis Tournament against Canada's Vasek Pospisil in straight sets 6-3 7-5.
It took the British number one an hour and 43 minutes to progress to the quarter-final where he will meet French number eight seed Gilles Simon.
Full report to follow shortly.
New deals for Bath pair
Rugby Union
Stepping away from football for a second and Bath back-rowers Alafoti Fa'osiliva and David Sisi have signed new contracts.
Samoa international Fa'osiliva, 29, arrived at the Rec in 2013 and has made 18 Premiership appearances.
Sisi, 22, also signed at the start of last season from London Irish, shortly after winning the Junior World Championship with England Under 20s.
Bath have also confirmed academy lock Tom Ellis has joined Yorkshire Carnegie on loan for the rest of the season.
Taylor to referee Capital One Cup final
Football
Anthony Taylor will be the referee for this year's Capital One Cup final between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, 1 March at Wembley.
The 36-year-old from Greater Manchester was fourth official to Andre Marriner in the 2013 FA Cup Final at Wembley.
Get involved - sporting egos
#bbcsportsday
We asked you to tell us who you think has the biggest ego in sport. Here's some of your suggestions from #bbcsportsday
Alex Barreto: Biggest ego in sport? Easy. Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Ross Phillips: Easy question @Carl_Froch
Alan Simon: If you count chairmen and ex-chairmen, Alan Sugar has the biggest ego in sport. Arrogance doesn't even begin to sum him up.
Debut to forget for Anderson
Football
While his former Manchester United team-mates were dispatching Burnley 3-1 at Old Trafford, Anderson was having a less-than-successful start to life at new club Internacional in Brazil on Wednesday.
Up against Cruziero, the game was goalless when the midfielder was handed a chance to score from a penalty.
You can probably guess what happened next, if not, check out the video to reveal the answer.
Ramsey to remain at QPR
Football
Earlier this week Ramsey, who was placed in caretaker charge following the resignation of Harry Redknapp, said he would be delighted if he was offered the job on a full-time basis.
QPR lost 1-0 to Southampton in Ramsey's first game in charge but they recorded their first away win of the season on Tuesday when they beat Sunderland 2-0.
BreakingBREAKING NEWS
Ben Smith
BBC Sport
Chris Ramsey is set to remain in charge of QPR until the end of the season.
Rankings boost for Ivory Coast
Football
Ivory Coast have leapt up the latest Fifa world rankings after winning the Africa Cup of Nations.
Equatorial Guinea, hosts of the Nations Cup which ended on Sunday, soared into the top 50 for the first time.
The National Lighting leapt 69 places and are joint 49th with Congo after reaching the semi-finals, albeit in controversial style.
The Ivorians moved up eight places to 20th although Algeria remain Africa's best-placed team in 18th.
A message from Eden
Football
In case you weren't with us earlier, Eden Hazard has put pen to paper on a new five-and-a-half year contract at Chelsea.
Shortly after announcing the news, the 24-year-old Belgium midfielder recorded a short message for Chelsea fans.
Murray takes lead
Tennis
Andy Murray has taken the first set of his latest match at the World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam.
He's up against Canada's Vasek Pospisil in the second round and has won the opening set 6-3.
You can follow the latest scores via the ATP website.
Sexton back for Irish
Rugby Union
Ireland have made two changes to their Six Nations side to face France in Dublin on Saturday from the team which beat Italy in the opening fixture.
Fly-half Johnny Sexton returns to action having been out since November with concussion while Jamie Heaslip is recalled to the back-row.
Alliss on Woods
BBC Radio 5 live
BBC golf commentator Peter Alliss spoke to BBC Radio 5 live earlier about Tiger Woods's decision to take an indefinite break from golf.
"I can't understand it. I have been privileged to watch him play for 20-odd years," he said.
"He was the best of his generation by a distance. It's like watching Roger Federer or Phil Taylor; they are just masters of their trade.
"What I don't understand is that he has always appeared to have such a strong mind and overcome all sorts of difficulties on the golf course. He produced shots that I couldn't believe.
"So now for people to tell me that his mind is disintegrating and he can't chip and he has got the twitch, I find it very difficult to understand."
Gallagher in doubt for Worlds after Evans crash
Skiing
Paralympic skiing champion Kelly Gallagher admits that her World Championship hopes are in doubt after guide Charlotte Evans suffered severe concussion in a training crash last month.
Evans has been unable to return to training as yet and may not be passed fit for the Worlds which take place in Panorama, Canada from 1-10 March.
GB name team for Para-cycling Worlds
Cycling
Dame Sarah Storey and fellow reigning world champions Jody Cundy, Sophie Thornhill, Neil Fachie and Pete Mitchell have all been included in the 14-strong Great Britain team for next month's UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in Apeldoorn, Netherlands.
Storey is aiming to break the women's hour record later this month.
Newcomers Megan Giglia, Louis Rolfe and injured ex-serviceman Jaco van Gass all get call-ups for the event.
Football Daily podcast
Football
BBC Radio 5 live
Catch up with all the latest football news and views by downloading the BBC Radio 5 live Football Daily podcast.
In the latest edition, Mark Chapman is joined by Neil Lennon, Stuart McCall and Trevor Sinclair to review Wednesday night's Premier League action.
The panel also react to Paul Lambert's dismissal as Aston Villa manager and fans give their thoughts.
Get involved
#bbcsportsday
There's been a bit of pontificating from Premier League managers over the last week.
Louis van Gaal's tactical leaflets disputing the tag of "a long-ball team", Jose Mourinho's interview antics and Sam Allardyce's "sophisticated one" claims.
With that, we want to know who has the biggest ego in sport?
Get involved and share your thoughts via #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text 81111 or leave a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.
Scots face relegation tie-break
Wheelchair Curling
Scotland face Germany this afternoon in a relegation tie-breaker at the World Wheelchair Curling Championship in Finland.
Both sides finished with three wins from their nine round-robin games and the loser of the match will be relegated, along with Sweden and Norway.
Scotland defeated the Germans 12-2 in their opening match of the tournament.
Fun and games
Football
Why not take a few minutes out from your lunch break to try an old favourite - and don't worry - this one's definitely not just for kids as I've had a few goes myself already.
Our friends at CBBC's MOTD Kickabout have combined the classic Spot The Ball game with pictures of this week's Premier League matches.
Try and spot the ball from the five action shots and see how many you get. Share your scores via #bbcsportsday
Murray ready for action
Tennis
Andy Murray is about to take to the court in Rotterdam at the World Tennis Tournament.
Murray, the top seed in the Netherlands, faces Canada's Vasek Pospisil, the world number 59 in the second round of the tournament.
You can follow the latest scores via the ATP website.
Get involved - Villa's next boss?
#bbcsportsday
A few more names get a mention here via #bbcsportsday as we ask who should Aston Villa appoint next following Paul Lambert's sacking?
Catherine Faulks: Paolo Di Canio is out of work or Nigel Clough!
James Beagrie: If we want to stay up and be a better club, don't get Sean Dyche, it's another recipe for disaster! We need a proven manager!
Mark Jackson: Next Villa manager Steve Nicol maybe? Good links with the MLS and deserves a chance surely?
Hazard signs new Chelsea deal
Hazard, who was the club's Player of the Year last season, has scored 13 times in 36 appearances so far this season.
"Since I came here in 2012 I have always felt good and the club has been very supportive to me," said the Belgian. "The manager has helped me improve a lot, the fans have been fantastic and I have an amazing understanding with my team-mates.
"I always try to give pleasure to the supporters with my style of play and it is nice to know they appreciate my work.
"I hope we can repay that support by winning lots of trophies, beginning with the Capital One Cup at Wembley, and after that, we can push hard towards the end of the season."
BreakingBREAKING NEWS
Football
Chelsea's Eden Hazard has signed a new five-and-a-half year contract with the Stamford Bridge club.
The 24-year-old has been at the club since 2012, making 147 appearances and scoring 43 goals.
Villa need fresh approach - Bent
Football
Striker Darren Bent believes Aston Villa will benefit from a fresh approach after Paul Lambert's sacking and backed the club to stay up.
Bent, who is currently on loan at Derby after a fall-out with Lambert, said: "I'm sure whoever comes in will do a good job and get them out of there because they have good enough players for them to do that.
"I think maybe they just need a fresh approach really. I don't know who they have got in mind to become their new manager but someone needs to go in there with a bit of freshness, mix things up a little bit, and just try something new - it might give the whole place a lift, including the supporters, the staff, everyone associated with the club."
Simonsen given ban for breaking gambling rules
Football
Rangers goalkeeper Steve Simonsen has been given an immediate one-match suspension for breaching Scottish FA gambling rules.
The 35-year-old has also been handed a one-game suspended ban until the end of the current season.
A notice of complaint from the governing body accused Simonsen of betting on 55 football matches over two separate periods.
Both Simonsen and the SFA can appeal against the judgement.
Wilson ruled out of Six Nations
Rugby Union
England prop David Wilson has been ruled out of the Six Nations by a neck injury and will be sidelined for 10 to 12 weeks, England head coach Stuart Lancaster has confirmed.
The Bath player missed last weekend's win over Wales and will undergo an operation on Friday on a nerve impingement in his neck
Behind England's World Cup woes
Cricket
Simon Hughes
The Analyst, BBC Test Match Special
"Watch my short video ahead of the start of the Cricket World Cup on Saturday explaining why England's performance during the final overs of one-day internationals holds the side back.
"I also examine how England could learn from other teams in the tournament and where their strengths will lie.
"England face Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday (03:30 GMT) in the first of their six group matches."
Bentaleb in contract talks
Football
The London Evening Standard reports that Spurs midfielder Nabil Bentaleb is in talks over a new contract at the club that is expected to double his salary.
The 20-year-old is likely to follow in the footsteps of Harry Kane and Ryan Mason by agreeing a deal more reflective of his status as a key first-team player at White Hart Lane.
Bentaleb's current deal, believed to be worth between £8-10,000 a week, runs until the end of the 2017-18 season but was signed in October 2013, before he had made a first-team appearance.
United release latest figures
Football
Simon Stone
BBC Sport
Manchester United have reported a 12.2% drop in revenue to £194.4m from £221.4m for the six months to the end of 2014.
The club's gross debt is up 6.7% to £380.5m from £356.6m.
Concussion numbers rise
Rugby Union
The number of reported concussions in English rugby rose by 59% in 2013-14 compared to the previous season, the latest annual injury audit has shown.
The audit recorded 86 cases in 2013-14 after 54 the season before.
Rugby's governing bodies believe the increase is because of improved understanding of head injuries.
Pulis speaks to 'the real Neil'
Football
BBC Radio 5 live
Listen again to the moment BBC 5 live Sport managed to finally connect West Brom manager Tony Pulis to "the real Neil Lennon".
Pulis was caught short by a prank phone caller earlier this week, who claimed to be the Bolton manager, and asked if he could sign defender Gareth McAuley on loan.
The man on the end of the phone was actually Northern Ireland third division footballer Blain Morrison whose impersonation of Lennon had Pulis fooled.
Speaking ahead of his side's Premier League clash against Swansea on Wednesday, the West Brom manager joked about the prank as Neil dropped by as a studio guest.
Leroy's looking up
Football
QPR midfielder Leroy Fer's keeping his chin up on social media, despite being ruled out for 10 weeks with medial ligament damage to his left knee.
The 25-year-old Netherlands international picked up the injury in the 2-0 win against Sunderland on Tuesday, where he also opened the scoring for The Hoops.
He tweeted the above picture on Wednesday night and said: Always keep your head up and smile... Thanks everyone for the support! I'll work hard to come back stronger!
Hartson: 'Wages will top £1m a week'
Football
In a week where a multi-billion Premier League TV rights deal was struck, one ex-player predicts players's wages will soon reach the £1m a week mark.
Former Arsenal and Celtic striker John Hartson told BBC Sport the eye-watering amount is "not far off".
"There will be a player one day earning £1m a week, I have no doubt about that," he said.
"In 2020 the money will rise again. That's the way it's going. When some people can't afford bread and milk and there's a recession going on, it's frightening."
Get involved - Who next for Villa?
#bbcsportsday
A few more names who could replace Paul Lambert as Aston Villa manager from your suggestions on #bbcsportsday
Andy Booth: It's time for a club legend to sweep in and gloriously keep them up. That man is Dion Dublin.
Joshua O'Jarrett: Rafa Benitez should replace him, only if the right contract is handed to him though, quality manager and is proven in the PL.
David Watson: Michael Laudrup with Villa legend Martin Laursen would be a great combination. Otherwise Eddie Howe or Jurgen Klingsmann.
Murray back in action in Rotterdam
Tennis
Britain's Andy Murray is back in action at the World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam later on Thursday.
Murray, the top seed, takes on Canadian world number 59 Vasek Pospisil in the third match on court.
We'll keep you posted with how he gets on later.
Sherwood in the frame
Football
Tim Sherwood has a genuine chance of being appointed Aston Villa's next manager following Paul Lambert's dismissal on Wednesday night, reports BBC WM 95.6.
Sherwood, 46, has been mentioned in connection with almost every managerial vacancy since leaving Tottenham Hotspur at the end of last season.
But, although Sean Dyche, Glenn Hoddle, Michael Laudrup and Jurgen Klinsmann have all been mentioned, Sherwood is the favourite with most bookmakers.
Borehamwood-born Sherwood finished his playing career in the Midlands with Coventry City 10 years ago.
'Woods in decline'
Golf
Iain Carter
BBC Sport golf correspondent
"What we can now say is that we're witnessing the decline of Tiger Woods.
"He's had an awful lot of time off. It's clear that his body is frail, he needs to find a new way to swing the golf club to make sure that he doesn't injure himself in the future and as a result of that he's lost form.
"So he's finding himself in a vicious circle. You wonder if this might be the beginning of the end, or the middle of the end.
"Next month or so will be very interesting. If he makes himself competitive again then it will be one of the greatest successes of his career.
"If he doesn't then these sorts of questions will be asked with louder and louder voices."
Woods to take extended break
Golf
Tiger Woods is taking an indefinite break from golf, saying his game is "unacceptable for tournament play".
Woods, 39, withdrew injured from last week's event at Torrey Pines after just 12 holes, having missed the cut at the Phoenix Open the week before.
"I need a lot of work on my game and to spend time with people that are important to me," said the American. "I enter a tournament to compete at the highest level. When I think I'm ready, I'll be back."
European back pages
Football
Over in Spain, the man making the front page of sports paper Marca is Porto right-back Danilo Luiz da Silva.
The 23-year-old Brazilian is stalling on signing a new contract with the Portuguese club in order to force a summer move to Real Madrid, according to the paper.
But Real look like they will have to stump up a fee of 20m euros to secure his signature.
Get involved - Villa candidates?
#bbcsportsday
A few more thoughts from Aston Villa fans on #bbcsportsday on who should succeed Paul Lambert as manager.
Christopher Phillips: Lerner should beg for Martin O'Neill to return!
Gillen Reid: Zdenek Zeman would put the cat amongst the pigeons. He is known to work well with youngsters, which is what Lambert tried.
James Kay: I'd like an interim manager with Premier League experience, one who can focus on keeping us in the league. Maybe a return for Houllier?
Gerrard to have hamstring scan
Football
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard will have a scan on Thursday after suffering a hamstring injury in the 3-2 win over Tottenham.
It means the 34-year-old midfielder is likely to be a major doubt for Saturday's FA Cup fifth round tie at Crystal Palace and his side's Europa League games against Besiktas.
European back pages
Football
Time to take a look at what's making sporting headlines on the continent now and in France, national coach Didier Deschamps is the main story in L'Equipe.
The former Chelsea midfielder and 1998 World Cup winner has extended his contract in charge of Les Blues until the end of the 2018 World Cup.
Lambert pays tribute to Villa
Football
More from Paul Lambert after his sacking as Aston Villa manager:
"I'd like to thank Randy Lerner for not only providing me with the opportunity to manage one of the most illustrious clubs in world football but also for the support and friendship he offered me throughout my time at the club.
"To the players, my sincere thanks to each and every one of them. They are a fantastic group of players and I wish them every success for the rest of their playing careers. I hope to see many of them achieve great things in the game.
"Finally, I pay tribute to the supporters who are among the most passionate I have ever encountered. They rightly hold huge expectations for their beloved football club and I sincerely hope they are rewarded with the success they deserve. I completely understand their frustrations and always shared their view that the football club is too big not to be competing at the top end of the table. I hope that can happen."
Barnsley sack Wilson
Football
League One side Barnsley have sacked manager Danny Wilson.
Assistant manager Chris Hutchings will also leave the club with immediate effect.
Wilson recently passed the 1,000 game landmark as a league manager.
Academy head coach Mark Burton will take charge of the side alongside Paul Heckingbottom for Saturday's match at Crawley.
Lambert pays tribute to Villa
Football
Paul Lambert, who was sacked as Aston Villa manager on Wednesday night, has released a statement through the League Managers Association paying tribute to the club and its supporters.
"I'm extremely proud to have managed Aston Villa," he said. "When I came on board the club's owner, Randy Lerner, warned me that I was embarking on the toughest challenge of my working life and he was not wrong.
"But I have never stepped away from hard work and I put my heart and soul into the job from my first day until my last.
"You never stop learning in football management and I certainly believe the invaluable experience from my time as Villa manager will prove hugely beneficial in the next stage of my managerial career."
West Brom 2-0 Swansea
Football
Rounding off the Premier League action from Wednesday where West Brom moved four points clear of the relegation zone as goals from Brown Ideye and Saido Berahino secured victory against Swansea.
Swansea manager Garry Monk said his side lacked intensity but his opposite number Tony Pulis said it was his side's best performance since he took over as manager.
Crystal Palace 1-1 Newcastle
Football
More reaction to Wednesday's Premier League matches and Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew earned a point in his first match against former club Newcastle as Fraizer Campbell's goal secured a draw.
But Pardew believed his side should have won at Selhurst Park.
Newcastle manager John Carver said afterwards Newcastle captain Fabricio Coloccini could have been blinded when he was struck by a coin during the game but the Magpies boss admitted that he had been 'brave' to play two strikers in the game.
Southampton 0-0 West Ham
Football
Back to Wednesday night's Premier league action and West Ham had goalkeeper Adrian sent off but frustrated Southampton by holding on for a goalless draw at St Mary's.
But striker Andy Carroll faces several weeks out after suffering a recurrence of a knee injury.
Hammers boss Sam Allardyce was unhappy about Adrian's dismissal, which he claimed cost them victory while Southampton boss Ronald Koeman said his front line lacked sharpness.
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#bbcsportsday
Here's who some of you believe should replace Paul Lambert as manager at Aston Villa following his dismissal on Wednesday.
Nate Jones: Cesare Prandelli. Worked wonders with Fiorentina. Would work with Director of Football. Has reputation to rebuild.
Anthony Walker: What's Sir Alex doing at the moment?
Plum Paul: Only three managers available and big enough for such a tough task - Hoddle, Klinsmann or Curbishley.
Keep your comments coming via #bbcsportsday on Twitter, by text to 81111 or leave a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.
Aston Villa managerial latest
Pat Murphy
BBC Radio 5 live
"The new Aston Villa manager will be recommended by the chief executive Tom Fox, with the owner Randy Lerner prepared to rubberstamp his decision. Lerner will not be part of the interview process.
"Lerner operates out of New York and is hardly ever in Birmingham, as he comes to rely more and more on the advice of his fellow-American whom he appointed as CEO last September. It was Fox who recommended Lambert should be sacked after Tuesday night's defeat at Hull.
"Fox will take soundings from Villa's director of recruitment Paddy Reilly and an inner circle of trusted colleagues before moving in on a target. Coaching expertise will be essential - Villa were short in that area during Lambert's tenure - and they won't be put off if their preferred candidate is with another club.
"Although time is on Villa's side in that their next Premier League game is not until a week on Saturday when they are at home to Stoke City, Fox will want a swift appointment."
Thursday's football gossip
Football
Back to football and here are some of the stories from Thursday's gossip column.
West Ham are considering a move for 26-year-old Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez - who is on loan at Real Madrid - according to Spanish paper AS, reports the Daily Star.
The Daily Mirror reports that Southampton striker Dani Osvaldo has ended his Premier League nightmare by signing for boyhood club Boca Juniors in Argentina - his fourth different club in 13 months.
And also in the Mirror, Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has been crowned the hottest player in the Premier League following a poll of American women. Burnley topped the overall league of attractiveness, with the hottest team overall.
Lancaster happy to name unchanged team
Rugby Union
England head coach Stuart Lancaster on his team selection: "It's always good to be able to name an unchanged team and to build some consistency. We did the same last year after France heading into the Scotland game.
"Italy are going to be fired up, they always are when they come to Twickenham, especially after last week's loss to Ireland. We know what's coming at us but we have prepared well and are looking forward to getting back home and playing in front of our fantastic supporters."
BreakingBREAKING NEWS
England have named an unchanged side to face Italy in Saturday's Six Nations game.
It means Bath's Jonathan Joseph and George Kruis of Saracens will make their first Twickenham starts after playing in last Friday's 21-16 win over Wales in Cardiff.
Ireland beat Bangladesh in warm-up
Cricket
Ireland have completed their World Cup preparations with a confidence-boosting four-wicket win over Bangladesh in Sydney.
Andy Balbirnie's unbeaten 63 steered Ireland home after new-ball pair John Mooney and Max Sorensen claimed three wickets each to bowl out the Tigers for 189.
It was Ireland's first win since they arrived in Australia last week and provided a much-needed lift ahead of their opening group game against West Indies in Nelson on 16 February.
Scots just short in warm-up
Cricket
Scotland fell just short of a memorable win in their final World Cup warm-up match against the West Indies.
Chasing 314 to win in Sydney, 96 from opener Kyle Coetzer and 66 from Richie Berrington looked to have put them on course.
But, the Scots fell three runs short after slumping from 300-5 to 310-9 in the closing overs.
Scotland's opening match of the World Cup is against New Zealand in Dunedin on Tuesday.
Morgan: No Aussie fear factor
Cricket
Stephan Shemilt
BBC Sport in Melbourne
"England captain Eoin Morgan says his team will not be intimidated when they meet Australia on the opening day of the World Cup on Saturday.
"England have lost 13 of their last 15 one-day internationals against Australia down under.
"They will take on the co-hosts in front of a crowd estimated at 90,000 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
"We have guys with a huge amount of experience that have beaten Australia before,' said Morgan.
Clarke ruled out
Cricket
Away from football for a moment and Australia captain Michael Clarke has been ruled out of their opening World Cup match against England on Saturday.
The 33-year-old is likely to be fit enough to play in Australia's second game, against Bangladesh in Brisbane on 21 February.
He made a half century on Wednesday, captaining Australia for the first time in two months as they won their final World Cup warm-up game against the United Arab Emirates.
Clarke has been continuing his recovery from a hamstring strain sustained in a Test match against India in December.
Lambert dismissed by Villa
Football
BBC Radio 5 live
After Paul Lambert's sacking, 5 live takes a trip down memory lane and revisits his run-ins with the BBC's Midlands football reporter Pat Murphy.
Get involved
So who do you think should replace Paul Lambert as Aston Villa manager?
Send us your views using #bbcsportsday or via the BBC Facebook page.
Lambert dismissed by Villa
Football
After what proved to be Lambert's last match in charge, Tuesday night's 2-0 defeat at Hull, he said Villa had "13 cup finals coming up".
You can read more about Lambert's dismissal from BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty.
In addition, Match of the Day pundit Phil Neville believes the club "have to get a manager in" before the weekend's FA Cup fixture against Leicester.
Lambert dismissed by Villa
Football
Away from Wednesday night's action for a moment and let's focus on the news that manager Paul Lambert has been sacked by Aston Villa, who find themselves in the relegation zone and without a win in 10 Premier League matches.
Villa have managed just 12 league goals from 25 games - the lowest in Premier League history.
First-team coach Scott Marshall and goalkeeping coach Andy Marshall have taken temporary charge with 13 league matches remaining.
Manchester United 3-1 Burnley
Football
At Old Trafford, substitute Chris Smalling scored twice to help Manchester United overcome Burnley 3-1 and climb up to third in the table.
United manager Louis van Gaal afterwards described his side as "not good" and "lucky" to win.
But despite the defeat, which keeps them in the bottom three, Burnley manager Sean Dyche was still proud of his side's efforts.
Stoke City 1-4 Manchester City
Football
Manchester City stayed in touch with Chelsea after two goals from Sergio Aguero helped them to a 4-1 win at Stoke.
City manager Manuel Pellegrini said his side returned to their "normal performance" for their first Premier League win since New Year's Day.
His opposite number Mark Hughes admitted his side got caught "chasing the game".
Chelsea 1-0 Everton
Football
Let's go back to Wednesday night's Premier League action for a while and Chelsea stay seven points clear at the top of the table after a late Willian goal sealed a 1-0 win over Everton.
But afterwards, Everton manager Roberto Martinez accused Chelsea's players of trying to sway the referee during the bad tempered encounter which saw Gareth Barry sent off and Branislav Ivanovic escape censure for a clash with Everton's James McCarthy.
"It's very clear that what the home team are trying to do is influence the referee," Martinez told BBC Sport.
Mourinho cut short his BBC interview when asked about Chelsea's discipline.
Thursday's back pages
Football
And finally on the back pages for the moment, in the light of Tuesday's record television deal, Thursday's Guardian looks at how Premier League clubs could best use their new found wealth.
Thursday's back pages
Football
The Sun's back page also says that Crystal Palace could be in trouble with the FA after Newcastle's Fabricio Coloccini was struck on the head by a coin at Selhurst Park last night.
Thursday's back pages
Football
The Daily Mirror reports that Paul Lambert could land a £10m pay-off after his dismissal by Aston Villa and Steven Gerrard will miss Liverpool's FA Cup trip to Crystal Palace and both Europa League games against Besiktas with a hamstring injury.
Thursday's back pages
Football
The back page of the Daily Express reports on Wednesday night's bad-tempered match between Chelsea and Everton and also the dismissal of Paul Lambert as Aston Villa struggle in the relegation zone.
Wednesday's Premier League results
Football
We'll have more on Paul Lambert's sacking as Aston Villa manager shortly and a look at Thursday's back pages, but first a quick recap of last night's Premier League matches:
Sportsday
Good morning and welcome to another Sportsday from the BBC Sport Centre.
It's been a busy 12 hours or so with Premier League matches and a managerial sacking and there is plenty coming up today as well, so let's get going...