Sportsday - rolling football news

1. John Terry signs new one-year Chelsea deal
2. Audley Harrison retires from boxing over brain injuries
3. Wayne Rooney says Harry Kane is "great for English football"
4. Australia beat India to reach Cricket World Cup final
5. How much is fair for a Premier League ticket?
6. Join the conversation using #priceoffootball

Goodbye

And that is it for another edition of Sportsday.

Join us again tomorrow with all the build-up to the Euro 2016 qualifiers, as England take on Lithuania at Wembley.

In the meantime you can follow live text coverage of France's international friendly at home to Brazil, a 20:00 GMT kick-off, with build-up to come from 19:00.

Van Garderen wins as Froome slips

More from BMC rider Tejay Van Garderen, who claimed victory on stage four's summit finish at the Tour of Catalonia today.

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"Yesterday I had a bad day with a fall, but luckily the damage was minimal and today I was fine," said the American, who finished the 188km-long route from Tona to La Molina three seconds ahead of Team Sky's Richie Porte.

Porte now trails overall leader Bart De Clerq of Belgium by 21 seconds, while 2013 Tour de France winner Chris Froome slipped to 67th in the overall standings, having finished today's stage over 27 minutes off the pace.

Double delight for Fulham

Championship side Fulham have signed Brentford goalkeeper Richard Lee and Reading midfielder Danny Guthrie on loan until the end of the season.

Former Watford keeper Lee, 32, has featured just once for the Bees this season, while Guthrie, 27, has played 11 times this term for Reading.

West Brom to pay Astle tribute

PA

West Brom will pay tribute to former striker Jeff Astle by wearing a replica 1968 FA Cup final kit at home to Leicester on 11 April.

Astle, who scored 174 goals in 361 games for the club, netted the winner as Albion beat Everton 1-0 at Wembley.

The kit will be part of 'Astle Day' where his family will launch a foundation to help sufferers and research of the brain condition which caused his death in 2002.

The England cap was 59 when he died.

Forest sign Arsenal striker on loan

AP

Nottingham Forest have signed striker Chuba Akpom on loan from Arsenal until the end of the season.

The 19-year-old made his debut for the Gunners in the Premier League against Sunderland last season and has since made eight more substitute appearances.

Akpom scored for England's Under-20 side against in the 1-1 draw against Mexico on Wednesday.

FA rebuffs Women's Cup draw criticism

Meanwhile, the Football Association has rejected criticism by Birmingham City Ladies boss David Parker of the way the FA Women's Cup draw is conducted.

Ahead of Monday's quarter-final draw, he told BBC Sport: "If I'm in the FA's position, you want an Arsenal, a Man City or a Chelsea in the final. Do you want a Birmingham City? They probably don't want that."

Birmingham were drawn away to Manchester City, but an FA spokesperson said: "Integrity in this process is vital and the draw for the sixth round proper of the FA Women's Cup fully complied with the rules and was adjudicated accordingly."

McDowell doubtful for Masters?

A quick golf line. Graeme McDowell's preparations for the Masters suffered a setback when injury forced him to withdraw from the Texas Open midway through the first round.

The Northern Irishman said he had not recovered from a stress injury to his lower left leg which he picked up during practice on Wednesday.

The 35-year-old was five over par for nine holes on Thursday when he pulled out of the tournament.

McDowell had received physiotherapy and played with his leg strapped up.

Briscoe out for three months

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A blow for Super League side Leeds Rhinos. Winger Tom Briscoe has been ruled out for three months with a shoulder injury.

The 25-year-old was hurt in the defeat by Warrington Wolves earlier this month and missed last week's win over Wigan Warriors.

"Tom has got a significant amount of damage in his shoulder," coach Brian McDermott told BBC Radio Leeds.

"It's a real blow because he's been in fantastic form and is one of the best players in the game."

Triple loan swoop for Peterborough

Peterborough have signed Bradford's Alan Sheehan, Leicester's James Pearson and Middlesbrough's Luke Williams on loan until the end of the season.

All three will be available to sixth-placed Posh for the League One play-offs, if required.

Former Notts County and Swindon left-back Sheehan, 28, has played 28 times for Bradford this season.

Right-back Pearson, 22, and forward Williams, 21, have been at Wrexham and Coventry respectively this term.

Get involved #priceoffootball

Stu Teare: Despite big TV deals, every penny counts to clubs. It's idiots like me that would go even if they doubled!

Luke: If ticket prices were reduced then everyone would be complaining that they can never get a ticket to see their side.

Robert Payne: I wonder how many PL stars recognise its their high salaries that are the direct cause of football being so unaffordable?

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Twickenham factor is massive - Cole

Some more rugby union chat. Leicester Tigers prop Dan Cole says England's fine home form will give them a big advantage when they co-host the World Cup later this year.

Despite narrowly missing out on the Six Nations title, England have won their last five games at Twickenham, scoring 181 points and conceding 91.

"The way our fans got behind us, we're going to be some force to stop," Cole, 27, told BBC Radio Leicester.

"It could be the difference. It's like playing with an extra man."

Weston to miss Southend game

An intriguing tale this one. Southend United winger Myles Weston will miss his side's League Two game against promotion rivals Bury to play for Antigua & Barbuda.

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The 27-year-old will fly to a training camp in Florida, and will feature in local friendly matches, before returning to Roots Hall on Tuesday.

Weston has played 32 times for the Shrimpers this season, scoring twice. Southend are fifth in the table and visit the fourth-placed Shakers on Saturday.

Interesting timing...

A golden day for Britain

Nick Hope

BBC Olympic & Paralympic sports reporter

The British team have enjoyed a stunning opening day at the Para-cycling World Championships in Apeldoorn, the Netherlands - winning four gold medals and a silver.

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Dame Sarah Storey claimed the first gold in the C5 500m time-trial.

Storey, who failed in her bid to break the hour-record earlier this month, admitted her victory - in 37.847 seconds - was a surprise given her recent training had been dedicated towards longer distances. Just three-tenths of a second behind was team-mate Crystal Lane, who collected her first major international honour on the track with silver.

The success did not stop there though. Five-time Paralympic champion Jody Cundy successfully defended his world one-kilometre time-trial title. A stunning result given the cyclist was hospitalised with a breathing problem back in November.

Visually impaired Commonwealth champion Sophie Thornhill retained the women's one-kilometre world time-trial title with pilot Helen Scott. They finished in one minute, 7.553 seconds.

Paralympic champion Neil Fachie and pilot Pete Mitchell then won the men's equivalent 1km visually impaired time trial.

Brighton sign Carayol, Carlisle sign Atkinson

Middlesbrough winger Mustapha Carayol has joined Brighton & Hove Albion on loan until the end of the season.

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The 26-year-old Gambian only recently returned from a year-long knee injury by playing for Boro's reserves, but is yet to make a first-team comeback.

Meanwhile, League Two strugglers Carlisle have signed Boro defender David Atkinson and Brighton winger Jeffrey Monakana on loan until 2 May.

Atkinson, 21, has yet to make his Boro first-team debut, and failed to play on loan at Hartlepool in September, while Monakana, also 21, played 50 games for Preston before joining Albion in 2014.

Henderson named Broncos head coach

Championship side London Broncos have appointed Andrew Henderson as their new head coach.

The former Castleford and Sheffield Eagles hooker, 35, had been in caretaker charge since Joey Grima stood down earlier this month.

"The role has come earlier than expected. It's a fantastic opportunity for me," he told the club website.

"My job now is to improve the confidence and belief of the current players within the squad."

How much is fair for a ticket?

Reuters

James Attenborough: A ticket price should never be more than £20 for an adult and £10 for a child at the top level. Germany keeps prices low.

Tommi Scott: I paid 14 quid to watch Tamworth and they were rubbish so will happily pay 45 to watch a Prem team.

Todd Wilde: I paid £2 to see Uruguay v N Ireland in a Montevideo pre-World Cup friendly. Full stadium, lots of families.. easy.

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Terry signs new Chelsea contract

More on the news Chelsea captain John Terry has signed a one-year contract extension at Stamford Bridge.

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Here's manager Jose Mourinho's view: "This new contract is not to say 'thank you very much'. It is because John continues to perform.

"He is a top defender. I am happy that he completely deserves this new contract after a season where he has already played 40 matches."

After winning the League Cup in March, Chelsea have opened up a six-point lead with a game in hand on Manchester City at the top of the Premier League, but were knocked out of the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain, and of the FA Cup by Bradford City.

Steel-y attitude to cross country

Nick Hope

BBC Olympic sports reporter

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Traditionally, thoughts about cross-country will evoke memories of enforced cold, wet and muddy missions across school fields during teenage years.

Even Britain's Gemma Steel, who was introduced to the sport at the age of 11, admits her feelings towards the sport were once closer to loathing than love.

"When I first tried it, I said never again," Steel told BBC Sport. "I didn't enjoy it."

However, having stuck with the event and become European champion last year, she is passionate about the physical and mental benefits of cross-country running.

Read the interview in full

Vale add two on deadline day

Port Vale have made two signings on loan deadline day, with Sheffield United defender Neill Collins and Everton midfielder Francisco Junior joining the League One club until the end of the season.

Collins, 31, and Junior, 23, are both eligible to play for Vale against Leyton Orient on Saturday.

Terry signs new Chelsea contract

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More on the news Chelsea captain John Terry has signed a one-year contract extension at Stamford Bridge.

Terry, 34, has been speaking to the club's website, and said he was "delighted" to have agreed the deal.

"After adding another major trophy to my collection this month I hope myself, the players and manager can continue to bring success to our club", he added.

"Playing for this great club makes me so proud. And as always I would like to thank the fans who have continually supported me."

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

Chelsea captain John Terry has signed a new one-deal with the Premier League leaders, extending his stay at Stamford Bridge until the end of the 2015/16 campaign.

Football League loan window shuts

Ding! The clock ticks past 17:00 GMT and that means the Football League loan window has been slammed shut by someone somewhere. No more deals can be done, but we will bring you the latest of those that have been completed today.

Para-swimming meet

BBC Sport's Elizabeth Hudson in Glasgow: "The first evening session at the British Para-Swimming International Meet starts at 17:00 GMT with swimmers aiming for the qualification times for the IPC World Championships which take place back here in Tollcross in July.

"Three swimmers have already beat their qualifying standards in the morning session - Claire Cashmore (SB8 100m breaststroke) and Scott Quin and Bethany Firth (SB14 100m breaststroke).

"Among those hoping to join them this evening are World and European S9 100m freestyle champion Stephanie Millward, Paralympic champion Ellie Simmonds (who is in action in both the 100m freestyle and 100m breaststroke) and 14-year-old Erraid Davies, but Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Davies needs a big personal best to qualify in the SB9 100m breaststroke."

Homegrown players in Premier League

FA

The Football Association, on Twitter: "English U21s are getting less than half the top-tier playing time than their Spanish, German and French counterparts."

Xavi to Qatari club Al-Sadd

Reuters

Spanish sports newspaper AS reports that Barcelona midfielder Xavi will join Qatari club Al-Sadd when his contact expires at the end of this season.

The paper also reports that 35-year-old Xavi, who made his 750th appearance for Barca earlier this month, has agreed a three-year deal worth 30 million euros (£22m), with an option for a further year.

Tiendalli joins Boro

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Middlesbrough have signed Swansea City full-back Dwight Tiendalli on loan until the end of the season.

The 29-year-old has only made six appearances for the Premier League side all season, and last played in January.

The Netherlands international is the second arrival at Boro this week after Fernando Amorebieta joined from Fulham on Wednesday, with fellow defender James Husband going the other way.

Middlesbrough are currently third in the Championship, a point off the top.

Get involved #priceoffootball

A revolutionary idea on ticket prices...

Jay: Supporters should get cashback after the match based on their support level:

• Quiet - 0%

• Noisy - 20%

• Hostile (for opposition) - 50%

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Van Garderen claims stage four in Catalonia

Tejay Van Garderen sees off the challenge of Team Sky's Richie Porte to claim stage four of the Tour of Catalonia in Spain.

The American BMC rider completed the 188km course, including a summit-finish at La Molina, three seconds ahead of the Australian, with Spaniard Alberto Contador eight seconds behind in third.

Belgian Bart De Clerq of Lotto-Soudal takes the overall lead ahead of Friday's 195km ride from Alp to Valls.

Crawley bring in defender Youga

Crawley Town sign former Charlton Athletic defender Kelly Youga on a deal until the end of the season.

The 29-year-old left-back was a free agent after leaving Chinese side Qingdao Hainiu.

Youga made 71 appearances for the Addicks between 2005 and 2011 and has also had brief spells at Yeovil, Ipswich and AFC Wimbledon.

Ferdinand banned and fined by FA

QPR director of football Les Ferdinand is fined £12,000 and will serve a one-match touchline ban after admitting an FA misconduct charge.

The charge relates to abusive behaviour towards a match official after the end of QPR's match against Tottenham Hotspur on 7 March.

Barnsley sign Owls keeper Wildsmith

Meanwhile, Barnsley have signed Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper Joe Wildsmith on a one-month loan deal.

The 19-year-old England Under-20 international could make his debut for the Tykes against League One leaders Bristol City on Saturday.

Manager Lee Johnson told BBC Radio Sheffield: "Adam Davies has got a slight abductor tear and we can't risk it getting worse.

"Joe has a really good reputation and this is a good chance for him."

Huddersfield sign James on loan

It's loan deadline day and the moves are coming in thick and fast. The latest being Manchester United defender Reece James's switch to Huddersfield Town for the remainder of the season.

James had a loan spell with Town's Championship rivals Rotherham earlier this season, playing seven times.

The 21-year-old could make his debut for the Terriers against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, 4 April.

Get involved #priceoffootball

Anthony Baum: In MLS, you usually get cheap tickets (£10-15) for a "supporters section". In return, you have to be noisy for 90 mins.

Shane Daly: If a stadium has over 40,000 capacity then the price should be reduced by 30-40%. I should be head of the FA, I have ideas...

Chris Parker: Of course different seats are worth different prices, 50% of tickets sold for £20 would be a good start.

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

England U19 v Denmark U19 (17:00 GMT)

England U19s are in action this afternoon in a European Championship qualification match against Denmark in Bayeux, France. Difficult at first to spot the reasoning as to why it's being played there exactly, but in this final stage of qualifying, one of each group's teams is chosen as hosts. In England's case, it's France.

Sean O'Driscoll's side face Azerbaijan on Saturday and France on Tuesday in a bid to top Group 7 and reach the finals in Greece in July.

Here's the England XI: Gunn, Smith-Brown, Chilwell, Winks, Galloway, Gomez, Roberts, Loftus-Cheek, Brown (C), Colkett, Gray.

Anybody spot the next Harry Kane? Give Roy a call.

Ticket prices protest

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

"The Premier League shareholders meeting in London has concluded.

Executives declined to comment on leaving the central London hotel where chairmen and chief executives from all 20 Premier League sides met to discuss a range of issues, including representations from fans over ticket prices."

Surgery may 'save career' - Saunders

Bradley Saunders says surgery on his hand may have saved his boxing career.

The 29-year-old from Sedgefield was forced to pull out of April's Commonwealth title fight against Dave Ryan and instead had an operation to repair ruptured tendons and ligaments in his right hand.

"I tried sparring this week and I just couldn't. I had an x-ray and the doctor said 'if you don't get this operated on you'll be lucky to box again after this next fight,'" Saunders told BBC Tees.

"I'm looking to have a long, successful career and I'm confident it'll just be this one fight that it sets me back by."

Your afternoon round-up

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Top stories: Audley Harrison retires from boxing for a second time after revealing he is suffering the effects of head injuries.

Australia beat India to reach the final of the Cricket World Cup.

Premier League clubs agree to discuss the FA's proposed changes to home-grown player rules.

Top features: Lewis Hamilton's column: "Engine equalisation unfair on Mercedes"

Former England captain Alan Shearer on why Harry Kane should start for England on Friday.

Top video: Classic France v Brazil encounters.

White to be honoured

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She is one of the most recognised and respected women players.

Faye White, the retired English footballer who played for Arsenal Ladies in the FA Women's Super League and England Women's National Football Team as central defender, is set to be named in the National Football Museum's Hall Of Fame this year on 14 October.

A great achievement.

Get involved on the MOTD Facebook page

Martin Austin: Charlton get a lot of my money these days. Next month I am going with a mate and our three kids - it's costing £54.50 between us. Unsurprisingly they tend to get a crowds of over 15,000 while Millwall up the road get nearer 10,000. I priced up the game at the Den the following week and it was £84. A perfect example of sensible pricing and clever marketing as I'm sure we'll have a pint, the kids a lemonade and a programme. I get impression that about 30% of people at the Valley are a bit like us; they go because it's affordable and family friendly, even if they don't support the club.

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the Match of the Day Facebook or BBC Sport Google+ page.

Liverpool's Lussey joins Bolton on loan

Bolton Wanderers have signed Liverpool midfielder Jordan Lussey on loan until the end of the Championship season.

The 20-year-old has progressed through the Reds' academy and has played five times for their under-21 side this term without appearing in the first team.

Robertson knocked out in Thailand

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World Snooker on Twitter: Neil Robertson is out of the #PlayersChampionship, losing 4-1 at the hands of Mark Davis in the last 16

Striker Jones to join Bournemouth

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Bournemouth have completed the loan signing of Cardiff City striker Kenwyne Jones for the rest of the season, subject to international clearance.

He has played 36 times for Cardiff this term, scoring 13 goals, having joined the club from Stoke in January 2014.

The 30-year-old, who has also played for Sunderland and Southampton, moves to a Bournemouth side chasing promotion to the Premier League.

The Trinidad & Tobago forward has 68 international caps.

'Halfpenny needs moving to wing'

BBC

In his latest column for BBC Sport, former Wales captain Gareth Thomas sums up his country's Six Nations and why he thinks Liam Williams should start at full-back, with Leigh Halfpenny moving to the wing.

Thomas also talks about the homophobic tweet sent to Welsh referee Nigel Owens. and Wales' World Cup hopes.

Read the full column here

Get involved #priceoffootball

Chris: £20 away ticket & £30 max home. Prices capped centrally. Season pass should represent min 25% saving.

Henry Zimet: In an ideal world, a Premier League ticket should be £40 max; but like most things #priceoffootball is dictated by supply & demand

Hugo Thomas: £25-35 seems fair to me but clubs are a business its simply supply & demand and the demand for Premier League ticket is extremely high

Today we are asking, What is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Gibson returns to England

PA

Meanwhile in cricket, England have appointed Ottis Gibson as their fast bowling coach for their tour of the West Indies, starting in April.

The 46-year-old former Windies bowler takes over from David Saker, who is to become head coach of Big Bash League side Melbourne Renegades.

Gibson moves back into a role he held between 2007 and 2010 before being succeeded by Saker.

The England and Wales Cricket Board's managing director Paul Downton said: "This is a short-term appointment."

Homegrown rule changes

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

"FA chairman Greg Dyke says Premier League clubs have agreed to a consultation over his proposed changes to homegrown player rules.

"Dyke has today met with Premier League club officials at their meeting in central London."

Rooney on Carrick call-up

England captain Wayne Rooney: "[Michael Carrick's] had a few injuries this season and so has missed a few games for Manchester United but he's come back and is going well. He's deserved his call-up and knowing Michael as I do, if he plays he won't let anybody down."

Roy on Raheem

England manager Roy Hodgson: "I haven't decided upon [Raheem Sterling being rested for the Italy game], there's an obvious case for him and James Milner who's been playing for quite a while now with a knee problem.

"There are those two and others who we will have to take a very serious look at. In Raheem's case he needs some specific treatment and who knows, if it goes well tomorrow night, the wise thing might be to give someone else a chance."

Hodgson "devastated" by Forster injury

England manager Roy Hodgson: "We thought we had three top-class goalkeepers, but now we only have one. We are devastated about Fraser Forster, I've been in touch with him but there's not much you can say, the same with Ben Foster, his cruciate injury is going to keep him out for this and a good bit of next season.

"In all of these situations it's now an opportunity for other goalkeepers to show me and my coaching staff what they can do. We are very sad for Fraser and Ben, and trust they are going to be back. But for the meantime we will have to look elsewhere."

Hodgson ducks ticket prices question

England manager Roy Hodgson on fairer ticket prices for fans: "Being a football coach and working with football players is a tremendous responsibility, especially as manager of England. There are areas where I don't have to give an opinion or make a decision, so forgive me for ducking the question."

Kane a talisman

England manager Roy Hodgson: "If you look at the squad and the age, we have a situation where Wayne at 28/29 years old with 100 caps, the next is Joe Hart approaching 50 and lots of players who haven't reached 10 caps yet.

"We are being helped by some of the clubs who are starting to turn their backs on so-called big-name foreign players and giving homegrown and young players a chance. Tottenham are a good example of that and so are Southampton. Harry Kane is the best talisman for that."

Hodgson on academies

England manager Roy Hodgson: "I am pleased people are looking into the problem itself more and more - how are we going to turn gifted players from academies into top-class footballers.

"To be fair to the FA and the Premier League, they are trying all sorts of methods but the bottom line is, will there be enough managers and clubs prepared to take a chance on these players? Or will they always look beyond and go and see what there is in Brazil, Spain and Germany?"

Rooney on Hodgson's future

England captain Wayne Rooney: "That's down to the FA and Roy but since I have worked with him he has been fantastic for me and great for the team. Hopefully they will sit down and sort something out and we can have a few more years with him."

Rooney pleased with captaincy

England captain Wayne Rooney on captaincy: "It was huge boots to fill in Steven Gerrard. I knew I wasn't coming into the role to make all the right decisions - you learn along the way. I am pleased and the players have reacted well and we are winning games. I am pleased with the job I have done and I hope we can carry on winning games."

'2022 World Cup dates won't hurt'

England manager Roy Hodgson on 2022 World Cup in Qatar: "The new date won't hurt. September, October, November is a good time to play international football because the players have had a summer break.

"It won't be a disadvantage for the European teams. The disadvantage will come when the various leagues in European countries have a problem. The World Cup itself won't be a disadvantage for European teams or England."

Hodgson on his England future

England manager Roy Hodgson: "At the moment we have important talks ahead of us, but it's all very well to talk. We have still got six qualifiers to play and that is a big enough challenge. What I have said all along is what Greg [Dyke] has said, so we are all singing from the same hymn sheet in that respect."

Hodgson "prepared" for Lithuania

England manager Roy Hodgson pulls out a piece of paper. "Even I can't pronounce a few of the names," he says. "We have been through their style of play and we think we know enough about them. People know more about Premier League players, but I hope we know enough. I hope the players are prepared to do what we want to do and cause them problems."

Rooney on Kane: "He's great for English football"

England captain Wayne Rooney: "First of all, the season Harry Kane has had is incredible. His first year in the Premier League, the goals he has scored and his performances mean he has deserved his call-up. He is a finisher, as we saw against Leicester. It is great for English football to have someone performing like he is."

Hodgson "very happy with Kane"

England manager Roy Hodgson: "We are very happy with Harry Kane. He has done well all week, and has not in any way damaged his chances of playing in the full senior team. I'm pretty sure over the course of these two games he will make his full debut, but I'm not prepared to give my selection away and when that is people will have to wait and see."

England news conference

Finally, manager Roy Hodgson captain Wayne Rooney have arrived...

Hodgson does not reveal whether Harry Kane will start against Lithuania on Friday, when asked.

Ketchup the ingredient for success?

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This is no joke, this is serious stuff from the England camp...

Everton defender Phil Jagielka says Roy Hodgson's decision to restore ketchup to the menu has made the England camp a happier place than it was under Fabio Capello.

The 67-year-old's informal manner is in contrast to the Italian's more authoritarian style .

"There can be too many rules," said Jagielka. "If Fabio didn't want anyone to have ketchup there was no ketchup. Roy allows us ketchup if we want."

Will the red stuff lead England to glory against Lithuania on Friday?

TMS Team of the Tournament

BBC

While we're (still!) waiting for England manager Roy Hodgson and captain Wayne Rooney to emerge, why not have a gander at Test Match Special's team of the Cricket World Cup.

You can have your say on the selection using #bbcworldcupXI on Twitter.

Kane should start - Shearer

Former England captain Alan Shearer is another to have praised Harry Kane. Shearer, 44, says he can understand why the Tottenham striker has been compared to him, and that Roy Hodgson should start him in Friday's game against Lithuania.

BBC

You can read more from Shearer on Kane here.

How much is fair for a ticket?

Sam Stacey: I just think people just love a moan, tickets have increased in price but so has the price of bread and the minimum wage!

Kieran Patrickson:‏ Tickets aren't only thing to price supporters out. Football shirts too are crazily priced. No fans, no game.

Today we are asking, What is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Kane the real deal - Carrick

Getty Images

Many have been eulogising about the man of the moment Harry Kane and England midfielder Michael Carrick is the latest to have his say on the Totttenham striker.

"As the spotlight's grown on Harry he seems to have grown and his performances have improved and improved," said the Manchester United man.

"He has gone up two or three levels. His performances keep improving.

"Kane looks like the real deal and I'm sure he's got a big, big future ahead of him."

England news conference to come

Been in hibernation since September and just woken up? Catch up on all of England's European Championship qualifying goals over on the FA's YouTube channel.

There are 11 to savour, with England top of Group E with four wins from four games. They're looking to extend their winning streak at home to Lithuania on Friday.

Manager Roy Hodgson and Wayne Rooney should be coming out very shortly indeed. 13:30 GMT for a 14:10 start?

Czech Republic U21 v England U21

It's not just the senior England side in action on Friday don't forget - the Under-21s travel to Prague for a friendly against Czech Republic.

And judging by this video on the FA's YouTube channel, Gareth Southgate's men are full of confidence in front of goal - although there are some fine saves in there too.

England U21s play again on Monday, taking on Germany in another friendly at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium.

Talanoa extends Hull FC contract

Fetuli Talanoa signs a new two-year contract with Hull FC.

The 27-year-old former South Sydney Rabbitohs winger joined the Black and Whites in November 2013 and scored 10 tries in his first Super League season.

Dennis v Rooney

BBC

Wayne Rooney and Roy Hodgson are still to appear at today's England news conference scheduled for 13:30 GMT, but don't worry - we're not taking our eyes off the ball.

And later we'll have the word from Rooney's interview with BBC Sport earlier today.

"Always a pleasure to get a one-on-one with the England captain," says BBC Radio 5 live's Ian Dennis.

Jones off to Bournemouth?

Bournemouth are closing in on the loan signing of Cardiff City striker Kenwyne Jones for the rest of the season, reports BBC South Today.

Get involved #priceoffootball

Footy 40 Years Ago: #LUFC face complaint to Prices Commission after increasing tickets for European Cup semi v Barcelona to £1 standing, £3-4 seats

Nightwing Gire: German clubs always have their stadia full hence connection between fans and players. Effects of lowww ticket prices maybe?

iKopite: £20 - £35 premier league. Paying over £50 for a ticket is extreme, especially if you have a family

Today we are asking, What is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Football fans protest

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

BBC

"Fans have handed over a letter to representatives of the Premier League calling on them, as they put it, to "share the wealth" from the record TV deal they've just signed.

BBC

"Supporters from Premier and Football League clubs gathered outside a central London hotel and unveiled banners which called for a £20 cap on away tickets and for grassroots football to receive greater backing.

"The Football Supporters' Federation chief executive Kevin Miles addressed fans saying there was 'no excuse for any football fan to be priced out of the game - but that's what we're facing'."

England news conference

As ever, there's been a bit of a delay in the start to the England press conference. Manager Roy Hodgson and captain Wayne Rooney are keeping us waiting but we'll bring you coverage as soon as it gets under way.

Will be interesting to see what Rooney has to say on Harry Kane's call-up. Will they make a good partnership up front? And what about Daniel Sturridge?

Match-fixing allegations

Moldovan top flight club Dinamo-Auto indefinitely suspends two players over allegations of match-fixing.

"We condemn all attacks on the integrity of the game and we urge all, who care about football to protect it from manipulation," the club said in a statement.

The Moldovan National Anti-Corruption Agency (NAC) last week questioned 12 players and officials following the club's 6-2 defeat by league leaders Dacia Chisinau.

The NAC said this week that two Singaporeans have been detained for attempted match-fixing, adding that they had made attempts to fix football matches in order to win money from betting. The pair could face up to 10 years in jail if found guilty.

England squad in full

PA

In case you were wondering, this is the full England squad that manager Roy Hodgson will have to choose from for the Euro 2016 qualifier against Lithuania on Friday and friendly against Italy on Tuesday.

Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Rob Green (Queens Park Rangers), Jack Butland (Stoke City).

Defenders: Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Nathaniel Clyne (Southampton), Kieran Gibbs (Arsenal), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Chris Smalling (Manchester United), Kyle Walker (Tottenham Hotspur).

Midfielders: Ross Barkley (Everton), Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Fabian Delph (Aston Villa), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Ryan Mason (Tottenham), James Milner (Manchester City), Raheem Sterling (Liverpool), Andros Townsend (Tottenham Hotspur), Theo Walcott (Arsenal).

Forwards: Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Danny Welbeck (Arsenal).

England withdrawals

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As usual, the England national side has been hit by withdrawals in the lead up to their match against Lithuania on Friday. Tottenham defender Danny Rose, goalkeeper Fraser Forster, striker Daniel Sturridge and midfielder Adam Lallana have all pulled out through injury.

England news conference

Coming up from 13:30, we have the England news conference with manager Roy Hodgson and captain Wayne Rooney. England face Lithuania on Friday in the Euro 2016 qualifier. The Three Lions are top of their group, with three wins from three games in Group E.

How much is fair for a ticket?

Tod Cowell: If the price of football tickets is such a major issue why are teams like Arsenal, Man Utd, etc selling out every single home match, and helping smaller clubs sell out when they travel to away matches? It's a simple matter of supply and demand. To make a difference people need to vote with their feet by not going. Tickets will surely come down if there are lots of empty seats every week.

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Everton loan Green to Tranmere

Tranmere Rovers complete the loan signing of 19-year-old Everton midfielder George Green until the end of the season.

Green, who joined the Toffees as a 15-year-old on a deal from Bradford worth a reported £2m, has represented England at Under-17 level.

Alonso rejects McLaren verdict

Andrew Benson

BBC Sport chief F1 writer

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Fernando Alonso has rejected McLaren's verdict on the pre-season crash that left him concussed and said it was caused by a steering problem.

The Spaniard has been passed fit to return to action at this weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix, where he spoke about the accident for the first time.

Although the team said there was no sign of a failure, Alonso said the car "definitely had a steering problem".

He also denied he had come round after the crash thinking he was 15.

KP on his future

PA

The Kevin Pietersen saga has seen more twists and turns than an Eastenders episode, but the newly signed Surrey batsman has spoken on Test Match Special about his future.

"It's just nice, it's refreshing," Pietersen said on re-joining for the county. "It has been snowed off before in some pre-seasons so not looking forward to that.

"I think everyone is sick and tired and I've just got to go and score some runs, no more talking."

The question is though, do England want him back?

How much is fair for a ticket?

Nathan Taylor: £25-£30 is fair for all, because after food and programme you're looking at £100 a game which people can't afford!

Sam Heaton: £25 quid max. The game will die without the fans and fans are currently being priced out of the game.

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Verratti on Pirlo: "He's a true champion"

With Juventus' 35-year-old midfielder Andrea Pirlo out injured, Paris Saint-German's Marco Verratti is likely to be handed the central midfield birth for Italy when they play Bulgaria in Saturday's European Championship qualifier in Sofia.

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Verratti is widely viewed as a long-term replacement for Pirlo but the 22-year-old is no rush to replace a player he very much admires.

"It's very difficult to replace someone like Pirlo," Verratti says.

"He's a true champion and once he's ready to come back it won't be a tragedy if I go back to sitting on the bench. Even though we could play together at times."

Alaba to Real?

AP

According to Spanish sports newspaper Marca, Real Madrid "representatives" have met with the father and agent of Bayern Munich defender David Alaba in order to discuss a move to the Spanish capital at the end of this season.

Alaba, 22, has made 29 appearances for Pep Guardiola's side this season, scoring five goals.

Top stories - a recap

So as we approach the lunchtime hour let's just have a quick recap on the best stories of the day so far.

Reuters

Top story: Australia beat India by 95 runs to reach the final of the Cricket World Cup.

Top feature: Alan Shearer on England's newest striking call-up, Harry Kane: "Throw him in and start him up front."

Top video: Fernando Alonso says he has "no doubts" about returning to action for McLaren at this weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix after his pre-season crash.

Barney battles for Premier League survival

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Defending champion Raymond van Barneveld plays world number one Michael van Gerwen in an all-Dutch contest during week eight of the Premier League in Dublin this evening.

Van Gerwen leads the group table and is unbeaten in the round-robin stage, while Van Barneveld sits third from bottom and is in danger of being eliminated next week.

Two of the 10 players will exit the competition after next Thursday's fixtures in Manchester.

Bulgaria pulls out of European Championships

Bulgaria's weightlifting federation has pulled its team out of next month's European Championships in Georgia, following the news 11 of its athletes tested positive for steroids.

The Bulgarian federation says it has decided, together with the country's sports ministry, that "Bulgarian athletes will not participate in any international events'' until the case is cleared.

The Budapest-based International Weightlifting Federation announced last week that eight male and three female Bulgarians had been provisionally suspended after testing positive for the anabolic steroid, stanozolol.

Kane to start for England?

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England's man of the moment Harry Kane will surely get his international debut against Lithuania on Friday, but what does former manager Sven-Goran Eriksson think about him and Wayne Rooney up top?

"He is a good football player and Rooney can play with any player because he's clever and hard-working," said the Swede.

But should Harry Kane be thrown straight in to the England team?

"I don't know the boy, the man personally, so it's very difficult to give advice on that but I think his club manager together with Roy have spoken about that. I'm quite sure about that. So whatever happens with the national team I'm sure that's the right decision to take."

Have a read of former England striker Alan Shearer's thoughts on Kane

Get involved #priceoffootball

Merife eLDa Obinna: We in Africa don't worry about #PriceOfFootball. In Nigeria, with less $1 you can watch a derby match

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Ticket prices protest

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Former Premier League and Liverpool FC Chief Executive Rick Parry has backed the Football Supporters Federation request to have Premier League clubs put aside £1m per season to help subsidise away tickets/travel.

He describes it as a "perfectly good idea, the sort of initiative that could very well be implemented" and says that the atmosphere at games is part of the reason for the ever growing TV deals and it must "never, ever be lost".

Parry also welcomes the news of clubs making a profit for the first time in 15 years, saying that Financial Fair Play is partly responsible because it has "unquestionably reigned in Chelsea and Manchester City."

The Football Supporters' Federation have tweeted: Thanks to everyone out on a wet day for #ShareTVWealth

Twitter

Spain to pay tribute to air crash victims

Spain's national team will pay tribute to the victims of the French Alps plane crash in Friday's European Championship qualifying match against Ukraine.

The German A320 Airbus flight 4U952 from Barcelona to Dusseldorf came down in a remote mountain valley in France on Tuesday 24 March.

Germany's national team held a minute's silence before their friendly match against Australia on Wednesday, and both teams wore black armbands.

Spain's government has said at least 51 Spaniards were among the 150 victims in Tuesday's crash, in which at least three Britons were also killed.

Harrison hangs up his gloves

News broke earlier (11:39) that boxer Audley Harrison has retired.

Back in April 2013, he faced Deontay Wilder and this is how the fight was reported by BBC Sport that evening:

20:47: Ding ding, we are off.

20:48: DEONTAY WILDER WINS IN FIRST ROUND! Unbelievable! The first shot Wilder throws in anger rocks Harrison and the American unloads some absolute bombs before the referee steps in. Audley Harrison is beaten inside 70 seconds.

Para-swimming meet

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BBC Sport's Elizabeth Hudson in Glasgow: "Bethany Firth and Claire Cashmore were both delighted after securing 100m breaststroke qualifying times for the IPC Swimming World Championships on the opening morning of trials in Glasgow.

"That swim really surprised me because breaststroke isn't my best event," said Firth, who set a new world record in her S14 class, beating the old mark by 1.43 seconds.

"I knew I was a good place coming into the meeting but it was still a massive relief to get the qualifying time in the morning session," added European champion Cashmore who swims in the SB8 category.

"The breaststroke is my main event so I wanted to go in there and get a solid swim."

Get involved #bbcsportsday

Matt Bedwell: Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United

Burnsie: One that I'd love to see is the breakup of the current England Cricket coaching team. Not got a clue.

Hannah: Juan Mata leaving Chelsea for Man Utd. I'm still not over it

Today we're discussing sporting break-ups - send us your examples using #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only) or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook or BBC Sport Google+ page.

Ron Suart dies aged 94

Former Wigan, Scunthorpe, Blackpool and Chelsea manager Ron Suart has died at the age of 94.

As a player Suart started as a full-back at Blackpool, playing alongside Stanley Matthews and Stan Mortensen as they reached the 1948 FA Cup final, which he missed through injury. He then transferred to Blackburn in 1949, before joining Wigan as a player-manager in 1955.

In a tribute on the Chelsea website, club historian Rick Glanvill described Suart as "one of those multi-skilled men who were essential to clubs in the 1970s and 1980s".

He added: "Whether as assistant manager showing new signing Ian Hutchinson the ropes at the training ground, then chucking him a tenner to get a mini-cab to his digs after, or clattering into Ron Harris to test the latter's fitness before the 1970 FA Cup final, he covered a lot of bases well. He also had that valuable commodity - football wisdom."

Williams to remain a Swan

Huw Evans picture agency

Wales captain Ashley Williams has reassured Swansea City fans he wants to end his career at the Liberty Stadium.

Williams was linked with Arsenal and Liverpool but signed a three-year contract extension in July 2014.

The 30-year-old, who will win his 50th Wales cap against Israel on Saturday, has told boss Garry Monk he does not want to ever leave the Swans.

"I can't see myself playing for anyone else to be perfectly honest," he said.

Read how Williams went from working at fairgrounds, petrol stations, bowling alleys and restaurants to the Premier League.

Get involved #priceoffootball

Erin Tee: Intrigued by #priceoffootball discussion. £50 too much? I'm in Canada- cost for an ice hockey game works out to £73.

Lachlan Keay: I paid £8 for a St Johnstone v Dundee United game a year ago.... and that was a derby

Sam Stacey: I just think people just love a moan, tickets have increased in price but so has the price of bread and the minimum wage!

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Harrison calls it a day

Getty Images

Big boxing news coming through this morning...

The 2000 Olympic superheavyweight gold medallist Audley Harrison has retired from the sport, aged 43, the boxer announced on his website.

Harrison had 38 professional fights, winning 31 and losing seven.

A sad day for the sport.

Adams returns to the ring

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The 2012 Olympic gold medallist Nicola Adams will return to the ring for the first time since triumphing in London as she takes part in the final stages of the England Boxing Elite National Championships in Liverpool in April.

Adams is one of five women seeded across the three female Olympic weight categories (flyweight (51kg), lightweight (60kg) and middleweight (75kg).

"It will be great to be part of such a historic event and to have the opportunity to box in England again," she said.

"Being part of the GB Boxing squad we tend to box overseas the vast majority of the time so to have the chance to compete in my home country again will be fantastic."

Get involved #priceoffootball

An alternative view on ticket prices...

Jay Friend: I'm more than happy to pay £60 a ticket at the Emirates or elsewhere. If you don't like it, don't go, end of story

Today we are asking, What is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Ipswich extend Varney and Chaplow loans

Ipswich Town have extended the loan deals of Blackburn striker Luke Varney and Millwall midfielder Richard Chaplow until the end of the season.

They have made a combined 10 appearances since joining Town and both will stay with the Championship promotion chasers until 2 May.

There is also the option to remain for the play-offs should sixth-place Town make them.

World Cup trophy tour route announced

PA

England Rugby 2015 has announced the route of a World Cup trophy tour, to begin on 10 June and travel throughout the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland ahead of the opening ceremony at Twickenham on 18 September.

The organisation also says there will be 15 'Fanzones' during the tournament - including one in each host city, one at the birthplace of the game in Rugby, Warwickshire, and one in Trafalgar Square in London - and expects over a million supporters to visit.

World Cup semi-final latest

All over in the World Cup semi-final, and it is Australia who go through to meet rivals New Zealand in the final. The Aussies beat holders India convincingly by 95 runs.

Follow the dedicated live page for all the reaction

Get involved #priceoffootball

Jemmett Fox Media: Tickets prices will never come down as long as footballers wages keep going up. Clubs, broadcasters, all at fault for that

Andrew Tonge: Adults £25 & Kids £10. Season tickets £400 and £150, plus discount for food & drink, and discount off cup tickets

Ross Brown: I say about £15 at max for a home game is reasonable for an adult, £20 for an away game. IMO it should be free but oh well.

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

What can't you do, Alexis?

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Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez is clearly a man of many talents.

As if tormenting Premier League defences wasn't enough, the Chile international is seemingly also a bit of musician. We're not convinced he's actually playing the piano (or singing, for that matter) in this Instagram video, but still. The fact he's even got one is a start.

Encore! And what a fireplace.

World Cup semi-final

Another one back to the hatch for India, and it is captain MS Dhoni. Surely their hopes of retaining the title are now over? Australia look set to join rivals New Zealand in the final. 231-7, chasing 329.

Follow the dedicated live page for full coverage

Get involved using #priceoffootball

Chris Palmer: Same fixture next month is £55.

Twitter

Today we are asking: what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Walcott's contract at Arsenal

Reuters

Earlier this month, Wenger said Arsenal had opened early talks with Walcott, whose current contract expires in the summer of 2016, because he had been "difficult to convince" in the past.

"We have started very early with him," said Wenger at the time. "He is very quick on the pitch, but off the pitch not always."

"False stories and complete nonsense"

Arsenal's Theo Walcott denies media reports of a "bust-up" between himself and manager Arsene Wenger over a contract extension.

The England striker said on Twitter: "I don't normally comment on false stories about myself but reports about contract demands and bust-ups with the boss are complete nonsense.

"There have been no contract talks as yet and my current focus is not on contracts but on doing my best for Arsenal", he added.

Sporting birthdays

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Cameroon defender Pierre Wome - a great free transfer signing on Football Manager about 10 years ago by the way - turns 36 today.

Former Zimbabwe cricket captain Prosper Utseya celebrates the big 30, Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta turns 33, while Preston striker Kevin Davies is 38.

Admittedly not a stellar crop today.

Nou Camp to host final

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The Copa del Rey final between Athletic Bilbao and Barcelona on 30 May will be played at Barca's Nou Camp Stadium.

Spain's domestic cup final usually takes place at a neutral venue, with a stadium often agreed upon by the clubs.

Real Madrid refused to host the match and as neither side could agree a location, a vote was held at a Spanish Football Federation meeting.

No side has played the final in their own stadium since 2002, when Deportivo La Coruna won at Real Madrid.

Road Cycling

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The Tour of Catalonia continues in Spain today, with the riders heading out from Tona to a 1725m-high summit finish at La Molina - a route of 188km that includes three category-one climbs.

Europcar's French rider Pierre Rolland leads the overall classification by three seconds from Colombian Rigoberto Uran of Etixx - Quick Step.

But Chris Froome of Team Sky and Tinkoff-Saxo's Alberto Contador could shake up the leaderboard as they resume their rivalry in the mountains. Froome, Tour de France winner in 2013, is two minutes 46 seconds behind Rolland, while Contador trails by two minutes 27 seconds.

World Cup semi-final latest

India are struggling to keep hold of their trophy... they are 181-5 now against Australia chasing 329. The winners go through to face New Zealand in the final.

Full coverage is on the dedicated live page

Get involved #priceoffootball

gavin vargas: Liverpool charging Newcastle £47 for a Monday-night televised game, and the seats are restricted view. #hawayman

Wee Brenny Rodgers: Now players' wages are totally out of control, ticket prices will never be reasonable in the Premier League.

Jamie Hughes: It's not just about away fans though. Clubs shouldn't charge their own fans more than visiting fans for a ticket?

Today we are asking, what is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Harlequins confirm Jones signing

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As expected, Harlequins have confirmed the signing of former Wales prop Adam Jones.

The 34-year-old, who has also appeared for the British & Irish Lions, will join the Premiership side from Cardiff Blues at the end of the season.

"He is a world-class prop and we cannot wait to get him involved," said Quins director of rugby Conor O'Shea.

British Para-Swimming meet

BBC

BBC Sport's Elizabeth Hudson in Glasgow: "Welcome to Tollcross Swimming Centre for the British Para-Swimming International Meet.

"Great Britain's top disability swimmers are in action over the next four days hoping to secure their places on the team for July's IPC World Championships, which will also be held here.

"Among those in action are Ellie Simmonds, Sascha Kindred, Ollie Hynd, new recruit Bethany Firth and Erraid Davies who won Commonwealth Games bronze last year aged 13 and will be hoping to make her first Worlds team."

1998 World Cup final repeat

It's a repeat of the 1998 World Cup final tonight as France and Brazil meet in a friendly in Paris at 20:00 GMT.

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If you're in a nostalgic mood, head over here for a look back at some classic encounters between the two nations.

Preston striker joins Pools

League Two bottom club Hartlepool United have made the first signing of loan deadline day, by taking Preston striker Jordan Hugill for the rest of the season.

The 22-year-old returned to Preston earlier this week after a spell with Tranmere, where he made six appearances without scoring.

Get involved #priceoffootball

Andy Joy: Surely the best way to price tickets would be in accordance with average wages, so charge what would be earned in 2 hours

Andy Walker: £25/£30 seems fair. Once paid £50 away at bottom of the league QPR. Extortionate and a terrible game

Rory Eddy Rebbeck: How much do you think is fair for a ticket in England's top flight? Certainly not £90 for Arsenal v LFC!

Today we are asking, What is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Ake signs for Royals

Today is 'loan deadline day' - not quite the drama of transfer deadline day but still, there should be a few interesting short-term moves coming through. Already Reading have signed Chelsea youngster Nathan Ake on loan.

The 20-year-old, who can play in defence or midfield, has captained the Netherlands up to Under-21s level.

But he has only made four first-team appearances at Chelsea this season despite signing a new five-year contract last term.

Ake's initial loan is for one month but he cannot play in Reading's FA Cup semi-final against Arsenal as he has played in this season's competition.

Get involved #priceoffootball

RougeMen:EF: £30 max, paying 50 quid to watch Liverpool v Newcastle should not be legal. Daylight robbery

Ryan Gamble: I think it should be equivalent to what is paid in the Spanish league as both leagues are of comparable quality

Vincenzo: Currently only option is to buy or not buy away ticket. No competition on price from multiple suppliers. Clubs can do more

Today we are asking, What is a fair price to pay for a football ticket? Let us know at #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

"I really do feel this is our time"

Wales haven't qualified for the finals of a major international football competition since the 1958 World Cup in Sweden - where they reached the last eight - but former national team coach John Toshack is convinced Chris Coleman's current crop can qualify for the European Championships in 2016.

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"I really do feel this is our time," said Toshack, now manager of Moroccan club Wydad Casablanca.

"Chris has been in there long enough, and he knows what he's got and he knows how best to go about it."

Wales, who are unbeaten in Group B, trail Israel by one point, and travel to the leaders on Saturday in a 17:00 GMT kick-off.

Get involved #bbcsportsday

Haseeb Aurangzeb: Absolutely killed me when Fernando Torres left Liverpool for Chelsea. Couldn't sleep that night.

Wee Brenny Rodgers: I expect Sturridge was sad when Suarez went now he looks like a very ordinary player without him

Burnsie: One that I'd love to see is the breakup of the current England Cricket coaching team. Not got a clue.

Today we're discussing sporting break-ups - send us your examples using #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only) or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook or BBC Sport Google+ page.

The ultimate dedication

Peter Thompson

How about this for dedication?

London-based Peter Thompson has signed up to watch his country - New Zealand - in the World Cup final on Sunday.

He will spend 21 hours in flight after departing on Friday night and will pass through 11 different time zones before catching up with friends, watching the big match then getting back on a plane to London in time for an important meeting at work on Tuesday morning.

"It all started on the opening night of the World Cup," explains Thompson, 41. "My friend in Australia and I made a pact that if it was an Australia v New Zealand final, I would get a flight."

Read in full about the Daniel Vettori look-a-like's itinerary.

World Cup semi-final latest

India struggling now against Australia and have some rebuilding to do as they chase 329.

Star man Virat Kohli fell for just one and they are now 104-3.

Follow the full coverage on our dedicated live page.

The Price of Football

We'd also like to hear your thoughts on Premier League ticket prices, with fans set to protest outside a meeting of club executives in London later today.

How much do you think is fair for a ticket in England's top flight? What's the most you've ever paid to see a match? What do you think of the Football Supporters' Federation's suggestion of capping away tickets at £20?

Let us know using #priceoffootball on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only), or head over to the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Scotland satisfy Strachan

SNS

Scotland seem to be on the up at the moment, after beating Northern Ireland in a friendly last night.

Manager Gordon Strachan looked back on the win by saying: "I thought it was important to win, really important. Just to make us feel good about ourselves.

"The performance at times was good as well, comfortable, brave on the ball, patient at times, getting used to the new pitch as well. It's a bit slick."

They face a European Championship qualifier against Gibraltar on Sunday.

Sporting break-ups - your examples

As ever we'd love to hear from you, and today we're discussing sporting break-ups, following the news of Zayn Malik's decision to leave pop band One Direction.

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Were you tearful when Luis Suarez set sail for Barcelona, leaving a rudderless Daniel Sturridge the lone sailor on the good ship 'SAS'? Or maybe your own Sunday League strike-partner upped sticks for a local team?

Send us your examples and recollections - and your photos if you've got any - using #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text us on 81111 (UK only) or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook or BBC Sport Google+ page.

Scotland to host Sports Championship

It may seem look to be an unlikely partnership, but Scotland and Germany have teamed together to co-host the first European Sports Championships in 2018.

About 2,900 athletes will come to Glasgow to take part in the 10-12 day event, including cyclists and swimmers, with Berlin staging athletics.

Organisers also hope to include golf at the 2014 Ryder Cup venue Gleneagles.

Scottish minister for sport Jamie Hepburn said the event "will be another chance for Scotland to prove it's the perfect stage for top class events".

The return of Moto GP

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More two wheel action now, but this time with an engine.

The 2015 Moto GP season gets under way in Qatar at the weekend when all eyes will be on reigning world champion Marc Marquez.

It's also a crucial year for Britain's challengers and will veteran Valentino Rossi be able to mount a title challenge?

What are the main talking points? Have a read of Azi Farni's views.

Armstrong ambushing cycling

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Should disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong be allowed to take part in a charity bike ride? Wada director general David Howman does not think so.

Former footballer Geoff Thomas has asked Armstrong to take part in a ride one day before the Tour despite the American's lifetime ban for doping.

Thomas is hoping to raise £1m to help fight blood cancer.

"It's very disappointing he should take centre stage in an event which he cheated in so often," Howman said.

Australian Atkins checks in

A rugby union signing this morning. Exeter Chiefs have brought in Australian lock Ollie Atkins from Edinburgh to replace departing captain Dean Mumm.

The 26-year-old joined Edinburgh after leaving Super 15 side New South Wales Waratahs in 2013.

Exeter head coach Rob Baxter told BBC Radio Devon: "We've had a very, very good look at Ollie and he came highly recommended by Dean himself.

"He's a real 80-minute player, he enjoys working hard, and we feel we have recruited a very good player."

Embarrassing England

Huw Evans picture agency

Talking of the cricket World Cup, England batsman Alex Hales - often overlooked for selection in the tournament - has spoken out and it is interesting stuff.

The Nottinghamshire opener said: "The skill level and standard of cricket we showed wasn't good enough and we are not hiding behind that.

"I think all of us are embarrassed about what happened."

Back to the drawing board, then.

Alonso rejects McLaren crash theories

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Fernando Alonso has rejected McLaren's verdict on the crash that left him concussed and said it was caused by a steering problem.

The Spaniard has been passed fit to return to action at this weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix, where he spoke about the accident for the first time.

Although the team have said there was no evidence of a failure, Alonso said the car "definitely had a steering problem".

He denied he had come round after the crash thinking he was 15.

World Cup semi-final latest

India going along very nicely on 73-0 as they chase down a target of 329 in the World Cup semi-final.

You can follow all the action on the dedicated live page

Back pages

Daily Star

The Daily Star back page also leads on Roy Hodgson's contract situation.

Back pages

Mirror

The Daily Mirror leads on Joe Hart's admission that England's players deserved to be pilloried by fans after their World Cup failure last year.

Back pages

Telegraph

The Daily Telegraph boasts an exclusive interview with Kevin Pietersen in which the former England batsman discusses his desire to return to the national team in time for the next Ashes series.

Back pages

Sun

Time for a look at the back pages now and the Sun leads with the Hodgson contract story and also has an exclusive with former England captain John Terry.

Sunderland upset Liverpool in season opener

The new Women's Super League One season kicked off last night with debutants Sunderland earning a shock 2-1 win at defending champions Liverpool.

Beth Mead headed the Lady Black Cats ahead in the first half from Keira Ramshaw's right-wing cross. The England Under-23 international was then fouled in the box after the break and debutant Brooke Chaplen doubled the visitors' lead from the penalty spot.

Satara Murray pulled one back for the Reds but Sunderland held on to win.

Hodgson to face the media

On the subject of Roy Hodgson and all things England, the man himself will be speaking to the media at around 13:30 GMT today.

The England boss will be accompanied by skipper Wayne Rooney as the build-up continues ahead of Friday's Euro 2016 qualifier against Lithuania at Wembley.

FA plans contract talks with Hodgson

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Football Association chairman Greg Dyke is planning contract talks with England boss Roy Hodgson within the next year.

Hodgson, 67, saw his team bowed out at the group stage of last year's World Cup.

However, England are top of their 2016 European Championship qualifying group after winning their first four games. Hodgson's current deal runs to the end of that tournament.

"Sometime in the next year we will discuss what happens afterwards," Dyke said.

Berra wins it for Scotland

But first we should recap some of last night's stories....

Scotland were eventually rewarded for a patient performance with a late goal in a 1-0 win over Northern Ireland.

Christophe Berra headed Matt Ritchie's corner past Michael McGovern in the 85th-minute.

The win served as a worthwhile warm-up for Gordon Strachan's side ahead of their European Championship qualifier against Gibraltar on Sunday. Northern Ireland, too, can take heart from some fine individual displays ahead of their meeting with Finland.

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Lots going on

It might be early doors but there's already plenty to bring you up to speed on, not least over in Sydney where the second World Cup semi-final is under way.

India are chasing 329 for victory and you can keep up with every bat stroke over on our dedicated live page.

In Malaysia, we've already had the news that Fernando Alonso and Valtteri Bottas have been passed fit to race in Sepang this weekend. Alonso has also been speaking for the first time and has had some interesting things to say.

And in football, fans will today protest against the price of match tickets by staging a demonstration outside a meeting of Premier League club executives.

Good morning

It's 8am. It's tipping it down above BBC Towers in Salford.

It must be time for another Sportsday.

Welcome.