Sportsday - rolling sports news

1. Sunderland sack boss Gus Poyet
2. Ritchie named in Scotland squad for Euro qualifier
3. Hull City able to reapply for name change in 2015-16
4. Arsene Wenger news conference (17:45 GMT)
5. GET INVOLVED: Your reaction to Gus Poyet's sacking #bbcsportsday

Sportsday Live

That's it for Sportsday Live for Monday. You can follow the latest from Reading v Bradford in the FA Cup and Swansea v Liverpool in the Premier League via the BBC Sport website.

Sportsday Live will return on Tuesday at 08:00 GMT.

Arsenal news conference

Wenger also admits he has not given up on challenging for the Premier League title with the Gunners just one point behind second placed Manchester City and seven points behind Chelsea, who have a game in hand.

"We are still too far from Chelsea, but will give everything to win our [league] games and come back as close as possible," he says.

Hamburg set to bid for Olympics

Hamburg has been picked as Germany's preferred choice for a 2024 Olympics bid ahead of Berlin, with the German Olympic Sports Confederation's (DOSB) members set to ratify the board's proposal later this week.

The board opted for Olympic newcomers Hamburg instead of Berlin, who hosted the Games in 1936, after an all-day meeting on Monday and after polls last week which showed Hamburg citizens were more in favour of the Games than Berlin residents.

The decision on who will host the games takes place in September 2017 with Boston and Paris already indicating they will bid.

Arsenal news conference

Wenger adds: "We want to give everything to have the greatest performance on the pitch. If we did not believe we could do it, we would not be here."

Arsenal news conference

Wenger says that Gabriel is available after recovering from a hamstring injury but Tomas Rosicky, who is out through illness and Chuba Akpom have not made the squad for the journey to the south of France.

Arsenal news conference

Wenger is joined by defender Per Mertesacker ahead of the game.

"We have to show a different face, but you need to embrace challenge," the German says. "They have a good side but we are confident and we want to put things right"

Arsene Wenger news conference

Finally, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has arrived and is giving his views ahead of Tuesday night's Champions League tie against Monaco with the Gunners 3-1 down after the first leg.

"Monaco is in a very strong position, but we have experience, the desire and the belief we can do it, so let's give everything to do it," he says.

Premier League preview

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There is not just FA Cup action on Monday evening - there is also a key Premier League match with Swansea hosting Liverpool in a game which you can hear live on 5 live sports extra from 19:45 GMT.

Here are some key facts ahead of the game:

• Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 12 league games (W9, D3). They are the only unbeaten team left in the Premier League in 2015.

• Swansea have beaten Liverpool only once in seven matches (D3, L3) since winning promotion to the Premier League in 2011 and Brendan Rodgers was the Swansea manager for that sole Premier League win, a 1-0 triumph at the Liberty Stadium in May 2012.

• Rodgers won 36 of his 84 league matches as manager of Swansea, guiding them to promotion to the Premier League in 2010-11.

• Swansea have only lost three home matches this season, and 25 of their 40 points have come at the Liberty Stadium.

Turkey withdraws Ryder Cup bid

Turkey has withdrawn its bid to stage the Ryder Cup in 2022, leaving five nations in the running ahead of inspection visits from tournament officials which will get under way this week.

"Although we believe that Turkey is now an established golfing destination, with a collection of world-class courses, it has not proven possible to secure the necessary logistical arrangements in order to proceed and so we have reluctantly decided to withdraw from the process at this time," said Ahmet Agaoglu, president of the Turkish Golf Federation

Germany's bid will be inspected on Tuesday with visits to Spain and Italy scheduled for next week. Officials from Ryder Cup Europe plan to visit Austria at the end of the month, while there is no date confirmed for the visit to Portugal.

Wenger news conference delayed

We had hoped to hear from Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger at 17:45 ahead of his side's Champions League game against Monaco.

However, the team's flight to Nice has been delayed - but we should hear from Wenger before too long.

Walker-Hebborn gets medal upgrade

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Chris Walker-Hebborn's 100m backstroke bronze medal at the 2013 European Short Course Championships has been upgraded after Russian silver medallist Vitaly Melnikov was given a two-year doping ban.

Melnikov, a backstroke specialist, tested positive for the banned substance EPO at the event in December 2013. As well as the backstroke silver, he also won a relay gold.

Walker-Hebborn and France's Camille Lacourt, who had shared the bronze medal, will now be promoted to silver.

Melnikov's ban, which has been backdated to the time he tested positive, will expire on 12 December.

McCall vows to make changes

PA

Manager Stuart McCall has warned his Rangers players that no-one will be guaranteed a start while he tries to find a winning formula at Ibrox and has promised changes ahead of Tuesday night's game against Alloa.

"We will change personnel over the next few weeks," said McCall, who welcomes back keeper Cammy Bell but has seen Haris Vuckic and Sebastien Faure ruled out with injuries.

"I need to see what the guys look like so most of the squad will get a game. That's not about giving someone a game just for the sake of it. There might be a couple of players who will feel they merit a chance when they've not had one, so how can I judge them if I don't see them?

"Until we get the right formula and see players deserving a jersey, I will make changes. We're evaluating all the time in training and games but we have to do it quickly. We have to get back up to a position where we can win football matches."

FA Cup action

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Reading take on Bradford City in their FA Cup quarter-final replay at the Madejski Stadium on Monday evening with live coverage on BBC One from 19:30 GMT and also on BBC Radio 5 live.

Here are some things you might not know about the fixture:

• Reading have never beaten Bradford in a cup competition, losing one and drawing one in the FA Cup and losing two and drawing four of their League Cup clashes.
• Their only previous meeting in the FA Cup prior to this season was in 1907 - Bradford won the first-round tie 2-0 at home.
• Reading have won just one of their previous 15 meetings in all competitions at home to Bradford.
• There was only one shot on target in the whole of their original quarter-final match - James Hanson's 13th-minute attempt for Bradford City, while just 50.7% of passes were completed.

Phillips named London Welsh coach

London Welsh have appointed Rowland Phillips as their new head coach as a replacement for Justin Burnell, who has left the Premiership's bottom side.

Welsh, who were promoted in the summer, have not won a single game in any competition this season and will almost certainly return to the Championship.

Phillips joined the club at defence coach at the end of 2014 and was on Wales's 2007 World Cup coaching staff.

Wilkin agrees new Saints contract

PA

St Helens captain Jon Wilkin has agreed a one-year contract extension until the end of the 2016 season.

The 31-year-old joined Saints from Hull KR in 2002 but missed last season's Grand Final win with a shoulder injury.

Wilkin, who has won 12 trophies during his time at Saints, has appeared 310 times for the club, scoring 86 tries and kicking two drop goals.

Arca backs Black Cats to bounce back

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Former Sunderland midfielder Julio Arca has told BBC World Service that he still believes the Stadium of Light club will see a change of luck, but it will be a tough task.

"It'll be a very hard decision to choose the person to turn Sunderland's fortunes around. I'm sure the club is going to find the right person to hopefully work out another escape," he said.

"They can still turn the situation around, but it's not going to be easy because they've only got another nine games. They are going to be nine finals. Every point they take now is going to be really important.

"It's hard just to blame one person because the manager is trying to pick the best eleven. Some of the players haven't been performing really well. I believe he [Poyet] is a good manager. He did really well last season to put the team in the Capital One Cup final and escape from the relegation battle."

'At Sunderland you are a God or a dog'

Ex-Sunderland boss Mick McCarthy has given his views on the Black Cats decision to sack manager Gus Poyet.

McCarthy, now manager of Championship side Ipswich Town, was in charge at Sunderland from March 2003 to 2006.

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He said: "It was only 12 months ago that you were seeing those 'Miracles do happen, Gus' banners. You are either loved or loathed there. You're either a God or a dog.

"It's a particularly demanding job there. I was loved, then loathed but I have seen so many men follow suit. It's a brilliant job there. It's a fantastic club and a great one to manage."

Aurier faces Uefa charge

Paris St-Germain defender Serge Aurier is facing a Uefa charge for insulting a Champions League referee on social media.

The 22-year-old Ivory Coast international has been charged with 'insulting acts' after posting a video on Facebook last Wednesday after PSG knocked Chelsea out of the competition.

Aurier, who missed the game through injury, appeared to insult Netherlands referee Bjorn Kuipers, who sent off PSG forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the first half at Stamford Bridge.

Six Nations trophy explanation

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Wales will not receive the Six Nations trophy in Rome next Saturday if they win this season's title.

There are only two Six Nations trophies - the original and a replica - with tournament organisers confirming those will be at Twickenham and Murrayfield on the competition's final day.

England, Ireland and Wales are all currently tied on six points, with England leading courtesy of their superior points difference. Ireland are second and Wales third.

If England win the title, the trophy presentation will take place on the Twickenham pitch after their match against France, while if Ireland are crowned champions, there will also be a pitch presentation, but in a closed stadium, as spectators will have left the ground after the game against Scotland.

However, if Wales take a third Six Nations crown in four years, their trophy presentation would not be until Sunday, with talks currently ongoing about logistics between Six Nations officials and the Welsh Rugby Union.

Gerrard back in contention

Swansea striker Bafetimbi Gomis has been cleared to play by specialists following his collapse at Tottenham in his side's last league game. Kyle Bartley has a knee injury and is the only confirmed absentee.

Liverpool will be without striker Mario Balotelli for the Premier League game at Swansea because of illness. Reds captain Steven Gerrard is fit after seven games out with a hamstring injury, while Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho are also available.

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Balotelli has not travelled with the Reds squad to Wales, but Liverpool expect the striker to be back for Sunday's match with Manchester United.

Live commentary will be available on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra.

Liverpool to continue push for top-four place?

There is also a Premier League game tonight, with Swansea entertaining a Liverpool side that are chasing a top-four finish and who have not lost a league match in 2015.

BBC Sport

Domingo sympathises with England

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South Africa coach Russell Domingo has expressed his sympathy for the England cricket team after their disappointing exit from the World Cup.

"I'm a little bit surprised [at their exit] because I think they've got a really good side on paper," he said before the quarter-finals where his side face Sri Lanka on Wednesday.

"They've got some seriously good players in that particular side. It just didn't go for them. It's the small margins you face in this competition, so you've got to feel for them."

Teenager arrested over Welbeck tweet

A 15-year-old boy from the Salisbury area, has been arrested on suspicion of sending a racist tweet aimed at Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck.

The post was made after Welbeck netted the winning goal during the FA Cup quarter-final clash against his former club Manchester United on 9 March.

Wiltshire Police said the teenager was arrested on suspicion of racial abuse and released on bail until 13 April.

France recall Picamoles for England game

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Toulouse back-rower Louis Picamoles has been recalled to the France squad for their Six Nations game against England at Twickenham on Saturday.

The 28-year-old won the last of his 44 caps against Australia in June 2014 before missing the build-up to the Six Nations tournament through injury.

Picamoles will take over from Racing Metro's Wenceslas Lauret who has a thigh injury.

Coach Philippe Saint-Andre added that there were injury concerns over fly-halves Camille Lopez (knee) and Jules Plisson (nose) and prop Eddy Ben Arous (triceps), who would all undergo medical tests.

Selby wins World Grand Prix opener

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World number one and world champion Mark Selby is into the second round of World Grand Prix snooker tournament in Llandudno after beating Michael Holt 4-1.

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

An independent FA arbitration panel has ruled that Hull City's proposed name change is not going to happen this season, but have not dismissed it happening in the future.

Owner Assem Allam has threatened to sell the club if he is not allowed to change the 111-year-old name from Hull City to Hull Tigers.

However, according to an FA statement, the club "remains able to pursue a playing name change for the season 2015-16", although the application would need to be re-submitted.

Reading and Bradford one game from Wembley

We've all got to grounds and wondered 'why is he playing'. Well, Reading fans who travelled to Watford on Saturday may have been a bit surprised to see their team for their Championship match.

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Reading's side featured NINE changes. And they promptly got embarrassed, losing 4-1. But that defeat will be forgotten about tonight if they win at home against League One Bradford City in an FA Cup quarter-final replay.

A Wembley semi-final against Arsenal awaits the winners.

Live coverage is available on BBC One from 19:30 GMT and also on BBC Radio 5 live.

Tonight's matches

There are also a couple of big matches tonight, one in the Premier League and one in the FA Cup. Time to have a look at those games a bit more closely.

Hall of Fame award surreal - Carney

England striker Karen Carney says becoming the first woman inducted into Birmingham City's Hall of Fame is a "big step" for the game.

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The 27-year-old, who is the youngest England international of either sex to earn 100 caps, was added to the Hall of Fame before Birmingham's draw with Huddersfield.

"It's crazy how far the women's game has developed and how accepting people have been over the last 10 years. People have really taken it on board and given women's football a fair chance," she said.

"It is different to the men and everyone has accepted that, but it can still be loved, and it is still football - there is nothing different, there is still lot of passion and excitement there. It is nice that women's football is being acknowledged in that respect."

Bekele pulls out of London Marathon

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Ethiopian great Kenenisa Bekele has pulled out of next month's London Marathon because of an Achilles tendon injury.

The multiple Olympic and World track champion had been scheduled to make his debut in the London race which takes place on 26 April but he picked up the injury while competing in January's Dubai Marathon.

Kenya's Geoffrey Mutai, the two-time New York Marathon winner, has been added to the field for the men's race which already features current marathon record-holder Dennis Kimetto and former record-holder and defending champion Wilson Kipsang.

'A few fans turned against him quite a while ago'

Paul Dobson from Sunderland fanzine 'A Love Supreme' said Poyet had not been popular among some of the club's fans for a long period.

Dobson told BBC Radio 5 live: "A few people had turned against him quite a while ago and I can understand that.

"Given the results at QPR and Bradford, many managers would have gone after those two games." The writing was on the wall after Saturday, there was very little chance of him seeing the week out."

Ipswich must win mini-league - Sears

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Ipswich striker Freddie Sears expects the race for promotion play-off places in the Championship to go to the final day of the season.

"Losing at Middlesbrough was tough, but at the start of the season we'd have taken being seventh with nine games left," said Sears, before Ipswich's game against Bolton on Tuesday.

"The key is winning our mini-league with Brentford, Wolves and Forest. Realistically finishing in the top two might be a little out of reach now, but I think the race to get into the play-offs will go to the final day."

Get involved

Some of your comments from our story that Sunderland have sacked boss Gus Poyet.

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Stephen Huish: It's simple. Sunderland need an experienced manager who can take the club forward over a sustained period of time. Not recent ex-footballers with no experience and big mouths. The board have always provided money for players. With the players the club have they should not be in this position.

Perpetual Sigh: Paul Lambert's available, I'm sure he'd be happy to enter the managerial revolving door. The result is always the same when clubs bring in someone who gets instant results because the players respond to the fact things are fresh, but are not prepared to show patience during poor form. O'Neill should never have been sacked, Di Canio barely got a chance and Poyet's been let down.

Nutgone: God bless you Gus. This is the act of a club that is desperate for success without spending money.

Northern Ireland squad

Here is the Northern Ireland squad in full:

Goalkeepers: Roy Carroll (Notts County), Alan Mannus (St Johnstone), Michael McGovern (Hamilton)

Defenders: Aaron Hughes (Brighton), Chris Baird (West Brom), Gareth McAuley (West Brom), Jonny Evans (Man Utd), Craig Cathcart(Watford), Shane Ferguson (Rangers, loan), Conor McLaughlin (Fleetwood), Luke McCullough (Doncaster), Paddy McNair (Man Utd),

Midfielders: Steven Davis (Southampton), Chris Brunt (West Brom), Sammy Clingan (Kilmarnock), Corry Evans (Blackburn), Oliver Norwood (Reading), Ryan McLaughlin (Liverpool), Ben Reeves (MK Dons), Pat McCourt (Notts County, loan), Stuart Dallas (Brentford).

Strikers: Kyle Lafferty (Rizespor, loan), Niall McGinn (Aberdeen), Jamie Ward (Derby County), Josh Magennis (Kilmarnock), Billy McKay (Wigan Athletic), Will Grigg (MK Dons).

McNair named in Northern Ireland squad

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Manchester United defender Paddy McNair is in line to make his Northern Ireland debut this month, having been included in a 27-man squad for matches against Scotland at Hampden Park on 25 March and the Euro 2016 qualifier at home to Finland on 29 March.

The 19-year-old was an unused substitute against Romania in November.

McNair's United team-mate Jonny Evans retains his place in the squad despite his stop-start season taking another turn for the worse with his six-game ban for spitting at Papiss Cisse.

Sunderland's season of woe

Some more stats for you regarding Sunderland's miserable season. The Black Cats have sacked manager Gus Poyet today.

• The Black Cats have drawn seven games 0-0 this season - no other team has more than four.
• Only Aston Villa (19) have scored fewer goals than Sunderland (23).
• Sunderland have had the fewest number of shots in the campaign (204).
• The Wearsiders have the second worst home record in Premier League this season.

And this is how they stand in the Premier League...

BBC Sport

Flat Jockeys Championship to be given new look

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The Flat Jockeys Championship has been given a revamp for the new season with the champion jockey to be crowned between the Guineas meeting in May and the British Champions Day in October.

Announced by Great British Racing, the changes to the jockeys' championship have been devised to make a title charge less of a grind for its participants, and to "provide a more compelling storyline for new and existing racing fans".

For the first time, the champion jockey will also be rewarded financially, with £25,000 for the winner and there will also be prizes for the runner-up, leading apprentice and jockey of the month.

Fifa announces Olympic venues

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Seven stadiums in six cities will be used as soccer venues for the 2016 Olympics in Brazil.

Rio will host games at the Olympic Stadium and the Maracana while the other games will take place at the Mineirao stadium in Belo Horizonte, the Mane Garrincha stadium in Brasilia, the Amazonia arena in Manaus, the Fonte Nova arena in Salvador and the Corinthians arena in Sao Paulo.

Sixteen men's sides and 12 women's teams will play 58 matches between 3-20 August 2016 with Brazil chasing their first Olympic gold in the men's competition.

Wigan sign young Liverpool striker

Championship side Wigan have signed Liverpool striker Jerome Sinclair on loan until the end of season.

Sinclair joined the Reds from West Brom aged 14 and made his debut against his old club in September 2012, becoming Liverpool's youngest ever player.

Give Sunderland job to Allardyce - Gray

Michael Gray, who made more than 350 appearances for home-town club Sunderland between 1992 and 2004, believes West Ham manager Sam Allardyce would be perfect to replace Gus Poyet as the Black Cats boss.

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Gray told Sky Sports News: "If you're looking long-term, there's only one person out there for me and he's in charge of the club that we're playing at the weekend.

"He's man-made for it. I know he's having contractual talks with West Ham (over) whether he's going to be staying with the club at the end of the season, he would certainly be my choice.

"It's unfortunate that Gus has lost his job, nobody like to see that, but we're all going to be speculating about a new manager and there's only one out there for me to take the reins."

Who's next for Sunderland?

So who could replace Gus Poyet? Well, here are six people already being linked with the job.

Kevin Ball: He could take caretaker charge. A popular figure with the fans after a distinguished nine-year playing spell on Wearside.

Sam Allardyce: Another former Sunderland player, but currently West Ham's manager. Has also managed Sunderland's rivals Newcastle.

Dick Advocaat: The ex-Rangers boss, 67, is out of work after leaving his post as Serbia manager last year.

Glenn Hoddle: The former England boss has not not managed since 2006 after he left his job at Wolves.

Paul Lambert: Sacked by Aston Villa last month. During his playing career he played for Celtic and Borussia Dortmund.

Michael Laudrup: Won the League Cup at Swansea before being sacked in February 2014. Currently managing Qatari side Lekhwiya.

Saker to take up Melbourne role

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England's fast bowling coach, David Saker, has been appointed the new head coach of Australian Big Bash side Melbourne Renegades.

Saker, who has been with England for five years, will join up with the side 'upon finalisation of his England coaching duties'. Saker's current contract expires at the end of the English summer, but there has been speculation he may leave sooner.

Sunderland sack Poyet

Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker on Twitter: "Sunderland have sacked Gus Poyet. Rumour has it he may not be too heartbroken."

Poyet's mixed fortunes

So, one year and 14 days after leading his side out at the Capital One Cup final at Wembley, where his Sunderland side were beaten 3-1 by Manchester City, Gus Poyet is sacked as Black Cats manager.

Why did they sack him? Well, this might be the reason why.

BBC Sport

The figures only relate to Premier League games.

Juventus want Pogba to stay

AFP

Juventus are ready to resist big offers from top European clubs for midfielder Paul Pogba this summer.

The Turin giants have no interest in selling the 22-year-old France international, who has been a success since arriving at the club in 2012 after leaving Manchester United as a free agent.

"There are clubs that are ready to spend 70-80m euros for Pogba," Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta told Italian radio station Radio Deejay.

"There are many suitors for Pogba, but we do not want to open negotiations and we want him to stay with us. If we want to increase our level, we need players of great quality and Pogba is one of them."

Scotland back into contention at Worlds

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Scotland have bounced back from two defeats on Sunday by picking up back-to-back wins on Monday at the World Women's Curling Championship in Sapporo.

Eve Muirhead, Anna Sloan, Vicki Adams and Sarah Reid were beaten by Denmark and Olympic champions Canada at the weekend, but came back fighting on Monday with a 9-2 win over the United States before defeating Norway 8-7.

'A sad day for Sunderland'

West Brom midfielder Craig Gardner, who played for Sunderland from June 2011 to July 2014, writes on Twitter: "Sad day for @SunderlandAFC I hope they can turn things around."

Get involved

Some early reaction to the news Sunderland have sacked manager Gus Poyet. #bbcsportsday

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Marcus: Awful decision from Sunderland. Guided them to survival and a cup final, ended Mourinho's home record and beat United.

Del: Not at all surprised, to be honest. Football management has become a joke with this constant hiring and firing.

Peter Collins: That was a mistake from Sunderland. Given how they expected to go down last year, no surprise now. They are going down.

Gus Poyet's last interview as Sunderland boss

This is what Gus Poyet said in his final interview with Match of the Day on Saturday, following his side's 4-0 home defeat against Aston Villa.

BBC Sport

"We have no-one to blame apart from ourselves," said Poyet. "It's about being professional, standing up and correct it or it will be danger.

"We haven't been in the bottom three all year, but we aren't winning enough and have put ourselves in a difficult situation."

"We lost in the worst way possible and we're not getting it right. We need to perform and are not doing so.

Sunderland's fixtures

So, whoever takes over at Sunderland has nine games to save them from relegation. They have some tricky looking away games, including at West Ham, Chelsea and Arsenal. The new manager's first home game is the derby match against Newcastle. Time for someone to become an instant hero.

BBC Sport

Get involved

So Sunderland fans the news has been confirmed. Gus Poyet has been sacked. How do you assess his time at the Stadium of Light? Who do you want to replace him?

Also, which three teams are going to be relegated from the Premier League and why? Let us know your thoughts on Twitter using #bbcsportsday and leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Sunderland sack Poyet - statement

A statement from Sunderland says: "Sunderland AFC have parted company with head coach Gus Poyet this afternoon. An announcement will be made in due course regarding the head coach position. The club would like to place on record its' thanks to Gus and wishes him well for the future."

The statement has some quotes from chairman Ellis Short, who adds: "I would like to thank Gus for his endeavours during his time at the club, in particular last season's 'great escape' and cup final appearance, which will live long in the memory of every Sunderland fan.

"Sadly, we have not made the progress that any of us had hoped for this season and we find ourselves battling, once again, at the wrong end of the table. We have therefore made the difficult decision that a change is needed."

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

Sunderland sack manager Gus Poyet.

The Uruguayan leaves with the club 17th in the Premier League, one point above the relegation zone.

BBC Sport

Thomas leaves Worcester for New York

Worcester City defender Wayne Thomas is making a big leap from the Conference North to the MLS, leaving Aggborough to take up a coaching job with New York Red Bulls.

The 35-year-old ex-Stoke City, Burnley and Southampton stalwart is to become an academy coach with the Major League Soccer Eastern Conference outfit.

Thomas played over 500 games in a career that took him all the way from Torquay to the Greek Super League.

"It's fully deserved," City boss Carl Heeley told BBC Hereford & Worcester. "It's a wonderful opportunity that he couldn't turn down."

Bamford 'excited' by Boro title race

Middlesbrough forward Patrick Bamford says his side are relishing their tussle for promotion from the Championship this season.

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Boro are in a three-game sequence against play-off hopefuls Ipswich, who they beat 4-1 on Saturday, Tuesday's opponents Derby and then leaders Bournemouth.

"We'd rather play teams like this rather than those who are scrapping to stay in the league," said Bamford.

"To go to teams like Derby and Bournemouth makes it a massive game with where we are in the league."

Amos ready to quit Old Trafford

On-loan Bolton goalkeeper Ben Amos expects to leave Manchester United in the summer when his contract expires.

The 24-year-old is in his second month with Wanderers and has only conceded three goals in his five starts.

"You could say Victor Valdes' arrival (at United) was the final nail in the coffin," he said.

Poyet gone?

There have been unconfirmed reports from the Sun, Daily Mail and Mirror that Gus Poyet has been sacked as Sunderland manager. More to follow shortly.

German officials to decide on candidate

German Olympic officials are meeting to decide whether to choose Berlin or Hamburg as their candidate for the 2024 Games.

The eight-member board of the national Olympic committee will announce its recommendation later on Monday.

Boston and Rome have already announced bids for the 2024 Games while Paris is also expected to join the field.

The deadline for submission of bids to the International Olympic Committee is 15 September. The host city will be selected in 2017.

Red Bull advisor criticises Mercedes

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Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has criticised rules he claims are killing Formula One and warned billionaire benefactor Dietrich Mateschitz could pull the plug on the team if he loses his passion for the sport.

Marko's remarks come after team principal Christian Horner called on the FIA for an equalisation of the regulations following Mercedes' crushing one-two start to the season in the Australian Grand Prix, led by Lewis Hamilton and suggested fans will turn away from the sport if Mercedes are not reined in.

"We will evaluate the situation again as every year and look into costs and revenues," said Marko, speaking to Austrian media. "If we are totally dissatisfied we could contemplate an F1 exit. The danger is there that Mateschitz loses his passion for F1."

Further delays to Volvo Ocean Race

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Cyclone Pam has forced Volvo Ocean Race organisers to make their third postponement to the start of the fifth leg of the round-the-world offshore yacht race on Monday.

Following a meeting with the fleet's six skippers, race management decided to delay the stage from Auckland to Itajaí, Brazil until Wednesday morning local time, 67 hours behind the previously scheduled departure on Sunday.

They had previously postponed the start of the 6,776-nautical mile leg to Monday, and then Tuesday, to protect the fleet of boats.

Exeter rule out changes for final

Exeter will resist the temptation to draft in Premiership regulars for Sunday's LV= Cup final against Saracens at Northampton.

The Chiefs made 14 changes for the semi-final win at Leicester, with Adam Hughes, Ceri Sweeney and Jerry Sexton among those making rare starts.

"I think we're going to keep with the core of that squad, I think they deserve it," coach Ricky Pellow told BBC Radio Devon.

Get involved

AFP

Tom Agass: Bullard's re-enactment of Phil Brown's on-pitch dressing down of the Hull City players at half time. Genius.

Harry Partridge: No celebration from Edu when he scored on his return to the Emirates, but a touching standing ovation by the crowd!

James Girvan: Gordon Strachan v West Germany at Mexico86.

Strachan names Scotland squad

Here is the full Scotland squad for their upcoming friendly against Northern Ireland and Euro 2016 qualifier against Gibraltar.

Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon (Celtic), David Marshall (Cardiff City), Allan McGregor (Hull City)

Defenders: Christophe Berra (Ipswich Town), Craig Forsyth (Derby County), Gordon Greer (Brighton and Hove Albion), Alan Hutton (Aston Villa), Russell Martin (Norwich City), Mark Reynolds (Aberdeen), Andrew Robertson (Hull City), Steven Whittaker (Norwich City)

Midfielders: Ikechi Anya (Watford), Barry Bannan (Bolton Wanderers), Scott Brown (Celtic), Darren Fletcher (West Bromwich Albion), James Forrest (Celtic), Shaun Maloney (Chicago Fire), James McArthur (Crystal Palace), James Morrison (West Bromwich Albion), Matt Ritchie (Bournemouth), Johnny Russell (Derby County)

Forwards: Steven Fletcher (Sunderland), Steven May (Sheffield Wednesday), Ross McCormack (Fulham), Steven Naismith (Everton), Jordan Rhodes (Blackburn Rovers).

Kalou in trouble over Wall damage

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Former Chelsea star Salomon Kalou could be fined up to 10,000 euros (£7,122) for using a hammer and chisel on the Berlin Wall, which is under a protection order.

The Ivory Coast striker who now plays for Hertha Berlin, was being filmed by a Berlin TV station as part of a report on their 2-2 Bundesliga draw with Schalke on Saturday.

He mimicked breaking off a piece of the wall with the tools at the tourist attraction, the Eastside Gallery.

Anyone defacing the wall can be heavily fined with the authorities set to investigate whether any damage was done.

McCafferty predicts salary cap increase

Premiership Rugby chief executive Mark McCafferty says the new broadcasting rights deal with BT Sport could lead to another rise in the competition's salary cap.

The new deal was confirmed on Monday, extending the current four-year contract until 2021.

"We've got the salary cap levels in place for the 2015-16 season next year, and we will start discussions with the clubs over the next few months on the cap for 2016-17 onwards," said McCafferty.

"No doubt the new BT deal gives us some certainty against which to plan those discussions."

Socino extends Newcastle contract

Argentine three-quarter Juan Pablo Socino has signed a contract extension with Newcastle Falcons to run until the end of the 2017-18 season.

The 26-year-old, who joined the Falcons from Rotherham, has scored two tries in 16 Premiership games this term.

Director of rugby Dean Richards said: "Juan came to us as a very accomplished player in the Championship who was eager to challenge himself in the Premiership and it is a challenge he has risen to superbly."

Cahill admits to Chelsea 'pressure'

EPA

Defender Gary Cahill has hinted Chelsea are feeling the pressure of the Premier League title run-in after they missed the chance to go eight points clear at the top of the Premier League following a 1-1 draw against Southampton.

"We're desperate... not desperate, it's the wrong word - we're looking for the next convincing win, the next win, to get us back up and running," Cahill told Chelsea TV.

"We should be going out playing with freedom and not feeling the pressure. We should be going out and enjoying [it]. I think that comes with winning games. The next win I'm sure is just around the corner for us."

Balotelli to miss Swansea game

Reuters

Mario Balotelli will miss Liverpool's Premier League clash with Swansea City on Monday because of an illness.

The Italian striker remained on Merseyside as the squad travelled to Wales, but Liverpool expect him to be back for Sunday's match with Manchester United at Anfield.

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Diegwu: My #knockoutcelebrations goes to Aubameyang and Marco Reus for their recent Batman and Robin goal celebration.

Neil Adams: Has to be Daniel Amokachi after scoring for Everton in the FA Cup semi-final. Never seen a smile so wide.

Michael: Has to be Nigeria's Finidi George crawling like a dog and lifting his leg to relieve himself.

Ritchie in Scotland squad

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Bournemouth midfielder Matt Ritchie has received his first call up to the Scotland squad for games against Northern Ireland and Gibraltar.

But there is no place for midfielders Stuart Armstrong and Gary Mackay-Steven despite their form since joining Celtic from Dundee United.

Blackburn Rovers' Jordan Rhodes and Sheffield Wednesday's Stevie May are among the strikers. Uncapped Aberdeen defender Mark Reynolds is again in the squad.

Scotland host the Northern Irish in a friendly at Hampden Park on 25 March before Gibraltar are the visitors four days later in a Euro 2016 qualifier.

Northern Ireland to face Qatar

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Northern Ireland will face 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar in Crewe on 31 May with a 17:00 BST kick-off.

The sides have never faced each other before, but Qatar are basing themselves at St George's Park for a training camp while the Irish FA keen to line up opponents before their Euro 2016 qualifier against Romania on 13 June.

Northern Ireland are also hoping to set up a friendly meeting with Wales.

Robson 'closer and closer' to return

Former British number one Laura Robson will not take up a wildcard into qualifying for this month's Miami Open after a 14-month injury absence.

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Her agent, Max Eisenbud, says she has not suffered any setbacks and is getting "closer and closer" to making her first appearance.

The 21-year-old has not played since losing in the first round of last year's Australian Open. Robson, who reached a career high of 27 in the world in 2013, had surgery on her left wrist last April.

Charnley faces spell on sidelines

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Wigan will be without England winger Josh Charnley for up to six weeks with an ankle injury sustained in Friday's 13-12 win over Hull.

Scans have revealed Charnley suffered a high ankle strain and, although he will not need surgery, he will wear a protective boot for around four weeks before he can resume training.

Dom Manfredi will take over the right-wing spot, starting with Friday's trip to Leeds.

'Wales v Ireland was ferocious. I loved it'

Jeremy Guscott

BBC Sport's rugby union analyst

"I just loved the spectacle and passion of Wales v Ireland. It was more than intense, it was ferocious - there was no doubt this was two sides putting their bodies on the line for their team-mates and nation.

"It was bone-crunching. It was earth-shattering. And when the final whistle went I half-expected every player to collapse to the floor and have to be revived by physios and medical teams!"

BBC

Read more from Jeremy Guscott in his column on the BBC Sport rugby union pages.

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Enzo Chiruny: Benjani saluting the Manchester City fans after scoring his first goal for them, on his debut against Manchester United.

Dre Mac Mbewe Bryan: Balotelli's goal celebration against Germany in the semi-finals of the last Euros. Flexing his muscles.

Jack Smiley Crago: Jose Mourinho running down the touchline when Demba Ba scored against PSG.

Remember, we are asking for your #knockoutcelebrations

Wolff not in line to race in Malaysia

Williams test driver Susie Wolff will not replace Valtteri Bottas if the Finn is ruled out of the Malaysian Grand Prix, the team have told BBC Sport.

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The 25-year-old was declared unfit by a doctor to race in Australia because of a tear in a disc in his lower back.

But deputy team principal Claire Williams said Wolff would not be under consideration - although she refused to confirm the likely deputy. "Susie Wolff is our test driver not our reserve driver," she said.

Pitman delighted with Bournemouth form

Bournemouth's in-form striker Brett Pitman says he is delighted with his contribution to their goal tally.

Pitman, 27, has started 19 of 41 games for the Championship leaders so far this season and his hat-trick in Saturday's 4-0 win against Blackpool took him to 13 goals for the season.

"If you would have told me in pre-season that with nine games to go I would have 13 goals and played as much as I have, I would have taken it," Pitman told BBC Radio Solent.

"Scoring two in a 5-1 win [at Fulham] and scoring three in 4-0 win - it's gone well."

Ancelotti wants more Real improvement

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti says his side will need to play with intensity for 90 minutes and not just the first half if they are to have a chance when they travel to Barcelona for Sunday's Clasico.

Reuters

"The whole team showed more desire and focus and they all understood what they had to do," Ancelotti told a news conference after Sunday's 2-0 win over Levante.

"We did that in one part of the match and on Sunday we need to do that for the whole match," added the Italian.

"We played with confidence in the first half, the second worries me a bit. We were more relaxed and played a more horizontal game. We lacked verticality."

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M: Roger Milla's delightful jig at the corner post. The unbridled joy of an underdog was awesome.

Mic Medeska: Adebayor's full length of the pitch run to celebrate in front of the Arsenal fans.

Nathan Maxwell: Robbie Keane cartwheel and bow and arrow after equalising with Germany in World Cup 2002.

We haven't finished yet, so keep your suggestions coming in to us on #knockoutcelebrations and we will publish the best on this page.

Home games costing Salford - Koukash

Salford Red Devils owner Dr Marwan Koukash says rent charges and falling attendances for home games are costing him money.

Speaking before Sunday's win over Wakefield, Koukash claimed he could lose between £15,000 and £20,000 if the crowd was below 3,000 - and the attendance for the match was 2,712.

"It is in the top three most expensive stadiums in Super League. Next year it will be the most expensive and the year after it will be 40% more expensive than any other," the 56-year-old said.

Who will win the Cricket World Cup?

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Now that Andrew Flintoff is out of the jungle, he can watch the important stages of the Cricket World Cup, although England's performance was as tasty as that fermented milk laced with cockroaches and flies probably was.

After four weeks, the World Cup is now at the knockout stage with eight teams still in contention.

As the tournament prepares for the quarter-finals which begin on Wednesday, a range of Test Match Special pundits look back on the first round, ahead to the last-eight ties and predict who will lift the trophy in Melbourne on 29 March.

Flintoff takes the glory

Fancy eating a rat's tail or being covered in elephant manure? What about drinking fermented milk laced with cockroaches and flies? How about falling out of a helicopter?

Well, these are the challenges that ex-England cricketer Andrew Flintoff, 37, faced on his way to winning the Australian version of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!

Network Ten

Flintoff, who will donate his 100,000 Australian dollars (£50,635) prize to his chosen charity, the McGrath Foundation, said: "As an Englishman winning something in Australia, it's unheard of.

"I'm shocked. I never expected to get this far. It's a lot to take in and I'm shocked, surprised and pleased. I've got a lot of emotions going round at the minute."

Manchester United v Tottenham analysis

Phil Neville

Match of the Day 2 analyst

"There were lots of positives for Manchester United to take away from their impressive win over Tottenham but the most pleasing thing for me was to see Marouane Fellaini get a standing ovation when he came off near the end.

BBC

"Fellaini has won people over by being brave about the stick he was getting and never going missing in games, even at times when things were not working for him. He needs to have that freedom to get forward and get on the far post.

"You also have to give United manager Louis van Gaal a lot of credit. He has not been afraid of playing to Fellaini's strengths, despite being criticised for doing so, and I think he has come up trumps."

Mullins plans French race for Hurricane Fly

PA

Trainer Willie Mullins says veteran Hurricane Fly, who finished third behind stablemate Faugheen in last week's Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, will be aimed at the French Champion Hurdle at Auteuil in June.

Mullins, who claimed a record-breaking eight winners at the Festival, has also reported no major injury concerns among his huge Cheltenham squad.

"Now it's a case of recovery and recuperation and getting ready for the rest of the big meetings this season," he told the Irish Times newspaper.

"The tough job of getting them hard fit for Cheltenham is done, so it's mainly a case of keeping them ticking over for Fairyhouse, Aintree and Punchestown."

Get involved

Some more of your suggestions for #knockoutcelebrations. Good work so far. Keep them coming in to us.

Frank Okeyo: Totti selfie in the Rome derby....

Mani Purewal: Drogba using the corner flag as a guitar and Malouda playing the air drums.

John McEnerney: Cantona v Sunderland 96 super dink over the keeper and he just stood there collar up. Love it.

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Tamgho set for return to action after ban

World triple jump champion Teddy Tamgho will return to competition on Saturday after serving a one-year ban for a doping offence, according to his agent.

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The 25-year-old Frenchman last competed in August, 2013 when he won the world title in Moscow but he broke his leg in November and last March was given a one-year ban after missing three drug tests.

Tamgho, who will be aiming to retain his world title in Beijing in August, will compete in a meeting near Paris on Saturday after completing a training camp in Spain.

'Poyet very much on the brink'

Ben Smith

BBC Sport

"Gus Poyet is taking training at Sunderland's Academy of Light this morning but he is very much on the brink following that 4-0 defeat by Aston Villa on Saturday.

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"While no announcement on his future is imminent, the situation is expected to become clearer once the Uruguayan has held talks with the club's hierarchy later today.

"While there is a belief within the club that it will be difficult to continue with Poyet as manager there is also acknowledgement that finding a replacement at this stage of the season, and with Sunderland a point above the relegation zone, will not be easy.

"It is understood that Sunderland are exploring a 'number of options' to help lift them away from the relegation zone. West Ham would not, however, be willing to allow manager Sam Allardyce - rumoured to be a contender - to leave before the end of the season."

Poyet update...

Time for an update on Gus Poyet's future as Sunderland manager. Over to BBC Sport's Ben Smith.

Best videos

Here are some of the best videos currently on the BBC Sport website.

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Football: Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson gets agitated at a reporter during the post-match press conference following his side's 0-0 draw at home to Hull.

Formula 1: Lewis Hamilton shares a laugh with Arnold Schwarzenegger on the podium following the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.

Cricket: BBC Sport looks at the key stats from the Cricket World Cup as Pakistan and West Indies qualify for the quarter-finals at Ireland's expense.

Rugby union: Watch the biggest hits, the funniest moments and the best of the weekend's action in one bite-sized chunk with the Six Nations Catch-Up.

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Matthew Rowbottom: Luis Suarez when he scored against Everton and dived in front of their bench.

Jayden Lee: Thierry Henry knee slide/ pose in from of Tottenham fans at Highbury.

Mark Cuskelly: Marco Tardelli. No-one comes close when it comes to goal celebrations.

Empics

After scoring Italy's second goal in the 1982 World Cup final victory against West Germany, Tardelli responded exactly how you or I may have done. By running and screaming towards the touchline. Brilliant.

Fancy watching Tardelli's scream? Of course you do.

Premiership Rugby signs new TV deal

PA

Premiership Rugby has confirmed its longest-ever television rights deal after signing a four-year contract extension with BT Sport.

It means the Aviva Premiership will be broadcast exclusively by the broadcaster until the end of the 2020-21 season.

Premiership Rugby signed a £152m four-year deal with BT Sport in 2012, and it is understood the new contract will offer a significant increase on those terms.

Poyet on the brink?

As we mentioned, Sunderland were thrashed 4-0 at home against Aston Villa on Saturday, and the speculation is rife in today's papers that manager Gus Poyet's time at the club is coming to an end.

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These are some of the stories from our Gossip column. And it makes bad reading for Gus.

Gus Poyet's departure as Sunderland manager is imminent following his side's 4-0 drubbing by relegation rivals Aston Villa on Saturday. (Times - subscription required)

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce's contract at the club runs out this summer and he is a contender to take over at Sunderland if Poyet is sacked. (Daily Mail)

Poyet is to hold talks with the Sunderland hierarchy, who have made contact with former Netherlands and Rangers coach Dick Advocaat. (Sun - subscription required)

Ibrahimovic criticised by French politicians

AFP

Paris St-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic's remark that France "does not deserve" PSG has led to anger among French politicians.

Ibrahimovic's outburst came in the tunnel following his side's 3-2 Ligue 1 defeat by Bordeaux on Sunday but he later issued an apology.

However, far-right National Front leader Marine Le Pen has said that the Swedish striker should leave France while leading Socialist politician Jerome Guedj called the remarks "unacceptable".

"Let him play football and shut up, or at least be respectful of this country, the football supporters who were also insulted," he said.

England officials get World Cup quarter-final assignments

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England may have exited the Cricket World Cup but they will still have a number of match officials in this week's quarter-finals.

Umpires Richard Illingworth, a member of the England side that lost to Pakistan in the 1992 World Cup final in Melbourne, Ian Gould (England's wicketkeeper at the 1983 World Cup), Richard Kettleborough and Nigel Llong will all have roles in the last eight while Chris Broad will be the match referee for the fourth quarter-final between New Zealand and the West Indies in Wellington on Saturday.

Bhutan bid to advance in World Cup

EPA

World football's lowest-ranked side Bhutan will get a significant financial windfall if they can reach the second round of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup on Tuesday.

The Himalayan nation, who are ranked 209th by Fifa, take a 1-0 lead into the second leg of their tie with Sri Lanka.

A draw or a win at the Changlimithang Stadium in Bhutan's capital Thimphu would ensure at least eight more qualifying matches after the Asian Football Confederation last year voted to revamp their process to reach the World Cup and the 2019 Asian Cup by combining the early qualifying stages of the two tournaments.

Get involved

Our first talking point is asking for your #knockoutcelebrations. Here are some early suggestions.

Alan Simon: Charlie George, after scoring Arsenal's winner in the 1971 FA Cup final. He didn't celebrate, just lay down on the ground.

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Accidental janner: Alan Shearer arm in the air no need for backflips and theatrics a minimalist classic.

Burnsie: Joe Ledley's celebration against Liverpool this year. The worst ever attempt at a knee slide.

Murray back in action in Indian Wells

Britain's Andy Murray is back in action on Monday in the third round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.

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The world number four takes on Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in a match which will be second on Stadium 1 with play in California starting at 18:00 GMT.

In the men's doubles, Dom Inglot and his Romanian partner Florin Mergea are first on Stadium 4 against Colombian pair Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah.

Celtic on course for domestic treble

Midfielder Stefan Johansen says "the Celtic future is bright" under manager Ronny Deila following their 2-0 League Cup final victory over Dundee United.

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Kris Commons and James Forrest were on target at Hampden, with Forrest also missing a late penalty.

"There's still a long way to go for the treble but this is the first trophy," Johansen told BBC Scotland. "We struggled in the beginning of the season, but I was sure the gaffer was going to do brilliant things here."

Serena into round four at Indian Wells

Serena Williams is through to the fourth round of the BNP Paribas Open in California after a 6-2 6-0 win over Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan.

The world number one will meet fellow American Sloane Stephens on Tuesday after Sunday's 53-minute victory.

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Williams, who boycotted the event for 14 years after being booed and heckled in 2001, says she now feels comfortable playing at Indian Wells.

"It definitely felt back to normal out there," the 33-year-old said. "I was able to relax because I was able to do more of the right things and not make as many mistakes as I did in my last round."

Remember this?

To get you started with our debate, I will point you in the direction of some of our suggestions with a feature on the best celebrations.

My favourite? It has to be Paul Gascoigne's 'dentist chair' for England against Scotland in Euro 1996. In the build-up to the game, an alcohol-related "dentist-chair" stunt in a Hong Kong bar during England's preparations had put Gascoigne on the front pages of the newspapers back in Britain.

He responded by scoring a wonderful goal and with this celebration...

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Empics

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Get involved

Well that leads us to our first talking point of the morning and we want to know what are your favourite celebrations of all time.

Get involved on Twitter, using the hashtag #knockoutcelebrations and we will put in the best suggestions and trawl through our picture archives to get the funniest pictures.

Today's newspapers

Marca

Three days is a long time in football, then, it seems. On Friday, Marca tore Gareth Bale apart. Well, this is their front page today, which praises Bale's "great game". The fickle world of Madrid newspapers.

Bale silences Spanish press

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Wayne Rooney was not the only player to celebrate a goal and have fun at newspaper reports.

On Friday, influential Spanish newspaper Marca published a full-page analysis of Gareth Bale's recent performances for Real Madrid, describing the Welsh international as "absent, lost and identifying little with the cause".

Well, what a way to respond. Bale scored both goals as Real beat Levante 2-0 and produced an 'I'm not listening' celebration to top it off.

'The Ferraris have taken a huge step forward'

Lewis Hamilton says he expects Ferrari to mount a challenge against his Mercedes team later this season.

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Winner Hamilton and team-mate Nico Rosberg dominated in Australia, but Sebastian Vettel's third place was progress for Ferrari after a poor 2014.

Hamilton said: "The Ferraris have taken a huge step forward, so we definitely cannot back off because I'm sure they're going to be pushing. I anticipate we might have a good fight with them at some stage."

Today's newspapers

Daily Telegraph

The front page of the Daily Telegraph sport section leads off on Lewis Hamilton's dominant performance at the Australian Grand Prix, which impressed Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Other sports headlines

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Tennis: British number one Heather Watson pulled off the biggest win of her career in Indian Wells, beating world number eight Agnieszka Radwanska.

Formula 1: With Hollywood superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger watching on, Lewis Hamilton dominated the Australian Grand Prix to get his world title defence off to the perfect start.

Rugby union: England must learn from the mistakes of the defeat against Wales two years ago if they are to clinch a first Six Nations crown since 2011, head coach Stuart Lancaster says.

Winter sports: Elise Christie has become the first Briton to win two medals at a World Short Track Speed Skating Championships.

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Today's newspapers

Daily Express

The Daily Express also has a big picture of Wayne Rooney, along with some quotes from Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, who suggests third-placed Arsenal could still win the Premier League title.

Today's newspapers

The Sun

The Sun's front page references Wayne Rooney's celebration with one of the better headlines of the day.

'I'm not happy with the result'

"I'm happy with the situation. I'm happy with the six-point lead, but I'm not happy with the result," said Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho after his side's 1-1 home draw against Southampton.

"If somebody tells me in August that at the end of March we are six points in front and one match in hand, I would sign immediately."

Chelsea move six points clear

Chelsea could be in an even stronger position, but dropped two points on Sunday in a 1-1 draw against Southampton.

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Diego Costa gave Jose Mourinho's side the lead with a header before Dusan Tasic equalised from the spot after Nemanja Matic had fouled forward Sadio Mane.

Southampton keeper Fraser Forster made a series of great saves to deny Oscar and Eden Hazard. In the closing moments he made a point-blank block from substitute Loic Remy.

City in 'rat race' - Van Gaal

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal believes champions Manchester City are being sucked into the "rat race" for the top four Premier League places.

"Whether they want that or don't want that, that is the position," said Van Gaal after United's 3-0 win over Spurs. "It is a rat race. They are in it."

City are second, six points adrift of Chelsea after a shock loss to Burnley. Arsenal are a point further back in third, with United two points adrift. Liverpool are also in the hunt.

BBC

United on form

So, let's start at Old Trafford and Manchester United produced one of their best performances of the season as they cruised to an easy 3-0 win against Tottenham.

Earlier in the day, the Sun on Sunday had gained footage of a kitchen boxing fight between Rooney and Sunderland's Phil Bardsley that ended with Rooney appearing to be knocked unconscious.

Well, after scoring United's third goal, Rooney ran to the corner threw a few punches and then fell backwards as if knocked out.

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Good morning

Hello, good morning, hope you are well and welcome to another Sportsday Live.

We will have a look back at all of the sporting action from the weekend and look ahead to a busy few days.

We are also expecting to hear from Arsene Wenger before his side's Champions League tie in Monaco tomorrow, and there will be lots of Six Nations chat as well.

It is going to be busy, so let's go.

Fighting hard

George Boyd's goal that gave Burnley a shock 1-0 win may well be the knockout blow to Manchester City's Premier League title hopes.

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Sunderland boss Gus Poyet is a man on the ropes after his side were thrashed at home by Aston Villa.

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And Wayne Rooney showed that Manchester United will keep punching to the last bell as they fight to secure a Champions League return.

Rex Features