Sportsday - Friday as it happened

1. Weekend football build-up
2. Runners prepare for London Marathon
3. Get involved: after Samuels' salute, your best #sportingbanter
4. Barcelona draw Bayern Munich, Juventus v Real Madrid in Champions League semis
5. Johnson free to play for Sunderland

For me though, that is all.

Thanks for your company and enjoy your weekend.

Premier League football, the London Marathon and Test Match cricket - plenty to look forward to.

Tonight's sport on BBC

There are a number of BBC local radio commentaries on tonight's sport.

If you want to listen to Bath v London Irish in the Aviva Premiership you can do so on BBC Radio Bristol from 19:45 BST.

Sticking with rugby union and the Pro12 match between Edinburgh v Zebre is on BBC Radio Alba from 19:35.

Switching codes to rugby league and we have commentaries on each of tonight's three matches: Hull FC v Huddersfield,Leeds v Warrington and St Helens v Widnes (all 20:00 BST).

Van Gerwen secures play-off spot

Getty Images

While the Premier League football season builds to its crescendo, so too does the darts version, with Michael van Gerwen becoming the first player to confirm his place in next month's play-offs by thrashing James Wade 7-0 in Cardiff.

The Dutchman, who turns 26 on Saturday, lost his second match on Thursday evening 7-5 to reigning PDC world champion Gary Anderson but was already guaranteed a top-four spot.

The other seven competitors can still qualify for the play-offs, with three rounds of fixtures remaining.

The first of many?

A big moment for Indian football...

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu became the first Indian footballer to play for a top-tier European club after the goalkeeper made his debut for Stabek FC in a Norwegian Cup tie against Runar on Wednesday.

It wasn't a bad debut either as his side thrashed Stabek 6-0.

India, a country of 1.3 billion people, rank 147 in the FIFA rankings.

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

Alex Jeffs

What's the best game of football you've ever been to?

"The best game I have ever been to - and I'm taking in the game, the occasion, its impact and its surroundings into consideration here - is Brazil 1 Germany 7 in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. It is a game I will remember being at for the rest of my life - a real "I was there" moment.

"To see the expectations of a nation wiped out by five German goals in the first 29 minutes and to see supporters young and old in tears even before the end of the first half was something I never thought I would see.

"You were in a country that regards itself as football's spiritual home and whenever Brazil's World Cup history is mentioned, that game will be in there."

Getty Images

Captain Marvel backs a United title push

Getty Images

Former Man Utd captain Bryan Robson believes Louis van Gaal needs to sign 'two or three' players if he is to win the Premier League.

"We've proved this season that we are not far away as far as the Premier League is concerned," he said. "Yes we are a good number of points behind Chelsea," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"If we bring two or three real top class players into the squad it will mean the lads can go and be successful."

New deal for Raine

Leicestershire all-rounder Ben Raine has signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until at least the end of the 2017 season.

The 23-year-old former Durham player's previous deal had been due to expire at the end of the current campaign.

Diving success

Great Britain's Tonia Couch and Sarah Barrow secured bronze on day one of diving's World Series in Kazan, Russia.

The pair finished with a score of 312.54 points from five dives in the 10m platform synchro women's event.

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

@Mark_1878 What do Everton & Roberto Martinez need to do to be in the mix for fourth on a consistent basis?

"Perform a whole lot better than this season for a start - and that includes the manager as well as the players.

"Martinez, first of all, has to take the lessons of this season into next season but one obvious answer is to somehow find the major investment needed so that Everton have the financial capacity to buy the players they need to be consistent challengers for the top four.

"Chairman Bill Kenwright insists he has been looking for that investment for years now - but so far major investors have not been attracted to Everton. A big problem."

PA

Classic Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton

Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton on Twitter: Had a blast at Monza today in these classics with the great, Sir Stirling Moss!

Bronze's Man City debut 'a big relief'

The FA

Lucy Bronze says it was a "big relief" to make her first start for Women's Super League One club Manchester City after recovering from a knee injury.

The 23-year-old England defender played her first 90 minutes in Sunday's WSL 1 defeat by Arsenal, after making a cameo appearance against Birmingham City in the FA Cup the week before.

Bronze, who joined City from Liverpool in November, told BBC Sport: "To not be there for the first game was a let down, probably for the fans and for myself.

"I kind of crawled off the pitch at the end, but in terms of my actual knee and the injury, everything's gone to plan."

Get involved

Joe Faint

Joe Faint: Running for @Hambofoundation picked up my number and met Muntai don't think I will catch him.

We want to know your marathon stories, past or present. Tell us about your costumes, your experiences, your reasons for running & where you will be watching it. Tweet #bbcsportsday or text 81111. Please send in any of your pictures if any of your are there this evening picking up your numbers?

Gossip

Niall O'Brien

A bit of gossip for Leicester fans from Ireland and Leicestershire cricketer Niall John O'Brien. He reckons Esteban Cambiasso will become head coach, with Nigel Pearson moving to director of football.

No idea if it is true.

Focus not on Spireites future - Cook

Chesterfield boss Paul Cook wants their focus to be on the pursuit of a play-off place rather than a rejected approach for him by Portsmouth.

The Spireites, in sixth, occupy the final play-off spot in League One which they will cement with a win over Champions Bristol City on Saturday.

Mangerless Pompey made their enquiry for Cook's services on Thursday.

"It's not about Paul Cook and any club that would be interested in him," Cook, 48, told BBC Radio Sheffield.

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

Steve Nicholls

Should football take a leaf out of rugby league regarding the surrounding and attitude towards referees? Players surrounding referees in modern football is akin to school playground stuff.

"Steve, I would be absolutely delighted if football took a leaf out of rugby's book with only the captain allowed to converse with the referee and free-kicks moved 10 yards forward for dissent. Whether that will ever happen is another matter entirely."

Getty Images

Gerrard to be honoured

EPA

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard will be presented with a special merit award by the PFA on Sunday evening in recognition of his 17-year Anfield career.

The midfielder has scored 183 goals in 705 appearances for the Reds and lifted the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup as the club's captain.

Navratilova leaves Radwanska

Some breaking tennis news.

Martina Navratilova has decided to end her part time role as the coach of Agnieszka Radwanska.

The nine time Wimbledon champion says she "underestimated the time" needed to do the job justice, and that it became impossible alongside her family and business commitments.

Radwanska is currently ninth in the world, but hasn't enjoyed the best of starts to the season.

Dynamo in trouble

Dynamo Moscow face UEFA sanctions for overspending within Financial Fair Play rules.

Uefa says Dynamo's case of failing to break even on football trading has gone to the judging chamber of its panel which monitors club finances.

Champions League draw reaction

Getty Images

"Never mind the talents of sizzling superstars Lionel Messi, Arjen Robben, Neymar, Thomas Muller, Luis Suarez and Franck Ribery: only one man will dominate the build-up to Barcelona's Champions League semi-final tie with Bayern Munich."

Find out who BBC Sport's Spanish football expert Andy West is talking about here.

Leading the London Marathon?

Anyone fancy doing this in Sunday's London Marathon?

A 31-year-old former triathlete overtook the elite field to lead Monday's Boston Marathon - just so his daughters could see him on television.

Starting in the first wave behind the front-runners, Derek Yorek ran the first mile in four minutes 38 seconds, passing eventual winner Lelisa Desisa.

He faded soon after, finishing in 3:04:57, 55 minutes after Desisa.

Get involved

Paul Woodham: Keep an eye out for Scunny Bunny - mascot for Scunthorpe United. Running for PROSTATE CANCER CHARITY.

Nick Fogarty: I'm running for @Kidney_Research to help support their vital work. Feeling nervous though!!

We want to know your marathon stories, past or present. Tell us about your costumes, your experiences, your reasons for running & where you will be watching it. Tweet #bbcsportsday or text 81111.

Please send in any of your pictures if any of your are there this evening picking up your numbers?

Walsall boss Smith plays down Millwall 'rumour'

Walsall boss Dean Smith has shot down speculation linking him to the managerial vacancy at Championship relegation-fighters Millwall.

"As far I'm concerned it's a rumour," Smith told BBC WM's Mike Taylor. "There's always rumours in football linking people with jobs all over the place.

"There's nothing you can do about that. As a football club we've had no contact from Millwall at all."

Smith, whop has been at Bescot since January 2011, is the fourth longest-serving manager in English football.

Wray extends Saracens contract

Saracens back-row forward Jackson Wray has signed a new long-term contract with the Premiership club.

The 24-year-old came through the club's academy and has made 108 appearances for the north London side since making his first-team debut in November 2009.

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

Tommy Williams

Would you rather wear crocs or wear socks and sandles. It's tough.

"Not tough at all Tommy - never, ever, ever, socks and sandles. Ever."

Getty Images

Get involved

George Gook: I am running the London Marathon for Great Ormond St for performing a life-saving operation on my sister.

Mohammed: I always wanted to do the London Marathon, now I finally have a chance to do it. So looking forward to it.

We want to know your marathon stories, past or present. Tell us about your costumes, your experiences, your reasons for running & where you will be watching it. Tweet #bbcsportsday or text 81111.

Radcliffe's last marathon

Getty Images

Remember this?

Paula Radcliffe will be running her last London Marathon on Sunday.

The 41-year-old has won in London three times - and set the women's world record of 2:15.25 in 2003 - she won't be getting anywhere near that.

Get inspired

From three siblings honouring a promise to their dying mother, to an overweight runner out to prove she is not Too Fat To Run, the London Marathon is packed full of inspirational stories.

Get Inspired takes a closer look at the experience of six of the 36,000-strong field in Sunday's race here.

'Bob Marley' warning for Hartlepool fans

AP

Hartlepool fans set to dress up as Bob Marley for next weekend's match at Carlisle should avoid "blacking up" as it is "likely to cause offence", says anti-discrimination body Kick It Out.

Supporters of the League Two club wear fancy dress to their final away game of the season, donning Smurfs outfits for the trip to Charlton in 2011-12.

Getty Images

Goodison return for Fellaini

BBC Sport's Simon Stone: "Louis van Gaal is coming to the end of his first full season at Manchester United but it seems the 63-year-old still has a few things to learn about English football.

"Asked to talk about Marouane Fellaini's return to Everton on Sunday, Van Gaal expressed a hope that the midfielder would get a similar reception to the warm one Juan Mata received from Chelsea last weekend. Mata didn't leave Stamford Bridge with any bad blood however.

"Fellaini's move from Everton left the Merseysiders in a rage, not least because his exit was triggered by former boss David Moyes, who returned to Goodison Park for the first transfer of his ill-fated regime. So, while Van Gaal's wish may be straightforward enough, there doesn't appear to be much hope of it being realised."

West Indies v England latest

England's first innings is over in Grenada. Jimmy Anderson is the last man out, sauntering to his ground to be run out. Joe Root is not happy about it either, which he demonstrates by chucking his helmet and gloves to the floor before climbing the steps to the changing room. I suspect the bat will have taken some stick behind closed doors.

England made 464, giving them a lead of 165 over the West Indies.

You can follow the West Indies' second innings via our live text commentary or on BBC Radio 5 live Sports Extra.

Get involved

Reuters

As you all know - or most of you anyway - one of Britain's showpiece sporting events is happening this weekend, as thousands pound the streets in the London Marathon.

We want to know your marathon stories, past or present. Tell us about your costumes, your experiences, your reasons for running & where you will be watching it. Tweet #bbcsportsday or text 81111.

Getty Images

Cherries to avoid Saturday's results

Getty Images

Bournemouth defender Adam Smith says the squad will avoid their Championship promotion rivals' scores on Saturday as the season draws to a thrilling climax.

The Cherries, who next play Bolton on Monday, need two wins from their final two games to seal promotion. Results at the weekend could mean they need less than six points to go up.

"I won't be watching the TV or football (results) on Saturday," Smith told BBC Radio Solent. "There is no point putting yourself through that."

Selby takes on Lawro

Getty Images

World snooker champion Mark Selby takes on BBC Sport's Mark Lawrenson in this week's Premier League predictions.

Selby hails from Leicester but has he predicted a win for the Foxes against fellow relegation strugglers Burnley on Saturday? And what are his thoughts on the top-of-the-table clash between Arsenal and Chelsea? You better watch the video to find out.

Dick Advocaat news conference

Getty Images

Sunderland head coach Dick Advocaat will leave it to Adam Johnson to decide if he is mentally ready to play a part in Saturday's Premier League clash with Stoke at the Britannia Stadium.

Johnson can continue to play for the club after he was charged on Thursday with three offences of sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl and has been included in the squad for Saturday. Advocaat told reporters: "He still has to come in, but in principle if he feels okay, then he will be a member of the squad."

Louis van Gaal news conference

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal on his side's defeat to Chelsea: "The result was the only thing that was not going in my way, and of course finishing the chances. That is what counts it football; it is not counting the performance. When you win in sport you can say everything, you can do everything and especially in England you can say anything. I think is not only performance but result that counts, and that I have told."

Louis van Gaal news conference

BBC

More from Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal on the battle for a Champions League spot: "I'm always at a club to be a champion, but when we reach our goal, we are happy."

Louis van Gaal news conference

Getty Images

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal talking to the media ahead of Sunday's trip to Everton:

On reports of meeting PSV Eindhoven winger Mempis Depay: "I do not discuss it with the media.

On the reception Marouane Fellaini will receive at former club Everton: "I have spoken with him. Marouane is always dry with his answers. He said 'it is a game'. But it is a special game for him. I hope the fans give him the same reception Juan Mata received at Chelsea."

On Robin van Persie's fitness: "He has to train very hard and play in the second team and show his qualities again."

Tonight's Sport on the BBC

There are a number of BBC local radio commentaries on tonight's sport.

If you want to listen to Bath v London Irish in the Aviva Premiership you can do so on BBC Radio Bristol from 19:45 BST.

Sticking with rugby union and the Pro12 match between Edinburgh v Zebre is on BBC Radio Alba from 19:35.

Switching codes to rugby league and we have commentaries on each of tonight's three matches: Hull FC v Huddersfield,Leeds v Warrington and St Helens v Widnes (all 20:00 BST).

Rooting for Joe?

BBC

There is no stopping Joe Root at the moment. The Yorkshireman has reached his 150 in the West Indies and you can follow live text commentary here.

This weekend's coverage

BBC Radio 5 live

Before we start wading into Louis van Gaal's Manchester United press conference from 16:00 BST, here is a reminder of the sport on offer this weekend from BBC Radio 5 Live.

From 19:00 BST, Caroline Barker will look ahead to the weekend's football with Jermaine Jenas, Sachin Nakrani and John Hartson, along with a preview of the rest of the weekend's sport.

On Saturday, after Danny Baker and Fighting Talk, 5 Live Sport gets under way at 12:00 with build-up leading into Southampton v Tottenham at 12:45, followed by Burnley v Leicester (15:00), Sports Report (17:00) and 606 (18:06).

Rafael out for season

Louis Van Gaal tells #MUTV that full-back Rafael is out for the season with a broken rib.

The Manchester United manager will speaking to the media shortly ahead of his side's trip to Everton on Sunday. You will see what he has to say on this page.

Champions League reaction

Getty Images

Here is some more from Michael Reiziger on the semi-final showdown between Barcelona and Bayern Munich, which sees Pep Guardiola face his former club: "It's a fantastic game and it could be a final. Both coaches they know each other very well because Pep was the first captain and Luis was the second captain at Barcelona. And they worked also together at Barcelona when Pep was coach of the first team and Luis was coach of Barca B, so they know each other very well."

Champions League reaction

Earlier, Barcelona and Bayern Munich were drawn to face each other in the last four of the Champions League. Ex Barcelona and Holland defender Michael Reiziger is a former team-mate of Bayern Munich head coach Pep Guardiola and Barca head coach Luis Enrique and has been speaking to BBC World Service:

He said: "I think it's going to be difficult emotionally for Pep but he's a professional and wants to win the game. Both teams are playing very good at this moment. It was amazing how Bayern won against Porto and what Barca did in Paris so it's very difficult to see who's going to be the favourite."

Tiger back on tour

Tiger Woods

Good news for golf fans. Tiger Woods has announced he will return to the PGA Tour at the Players Championship on 7 May. The announcement will dampen fears that the wrist injury he suffered in his final round at the Masters is a serious one.

World Championship latest

Here is the latest state of play in the second-round matches in the Snooker World Championship:

Barry Hawkins (Eng) 0-2 Mark Allen (NI)

76-1 (65)

Ding Junhui (Chn) 5-5 John Higgins (Sco)

81-0, 67-36, 0-135 (135), 6-116 (73), 78-50, 68-55 (64), 28-78 (67), 0-95 (94), 0-77, 0-135 (80)

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

Adam Anouer

Out of the bottom 3 in the league which one do you think has the best chance to survive?

"Out of the current bottom three of Leicester City, QPR and Burnley I would go for Leicester City, Adam - which is horrendously bad news for them of course. Four out of their last five at home after tomorrow's trip to Burnley, one against Chelsea admittedly, but got a great chance."

Getty Images

Mark Hughes press conference

Stoke boss Mark Hughes is speaking to the press ahead of his side's match with relegation-threatened Sunderland on Saturday. He has confirmed that Peter Odemwingie, who has missed most of the season after rupturing a cruciate knee ligament last August, will be back and on the bench...

"Peter Odemwingie is likely to be on the bench tomorrow. He is in a real good place and is confident. It is a real positive for us."

West Indies v England - latest

Play in the second Test between West Indies and England is back under way in Grenada. It is day four and England are 387-7, having just lost Jos Buttler, stumped off Devendra Bishoo. Joe Root is still there on 124. England's lead is 90.

You can follow the match via our live text commentary or on BBC radio 5 Live Sports Extra.

Jamieson misses Worlds

Getty Images

London 2012 silver medallist Michael Jamieson has been left out of the GB squad for swimming's World Championships. Jazz Carlin, who was included in the squad, has had this to say about Jamieson's exclusion...

"Michael is one of my team-mates and I train with him down in Bath. It was obviously disappointing for all of us to see him not make the World Championship team but he is a strong guy. You know to become Olympic silver medallist you don't do that overnight. That is not luck and it's from hard work and dedication. He will definitely bounce back and next year he will be back stronger than ever. Hopefully this can just push him on further towards Rio"

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

@EllisNutt95

Will English teams fare better in the Champions League next season?

"The bottom line, Ellis, is that our top teams are currently adrift of the top three Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

"Liverpool looked out of their depth in the competition while Manchester City got a tough draw against Barcelona. Chelsea and Arsenal, in particular, may look back and feel they really should have beaten PSG and Monaco. Arsenal's approach in the home leg against Monaco was tactical suicide.

"If we say Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City will be the four English teams in the Champions League next season, then it is a fair assumption they have will have better squads.

"But those big three will have improved as well and I would not bet with any confidence on the English clubs beating them over two legs."

Reuters

‏

Louis van Gaal press conference

Simon Stone

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal will be speaking to the media this afternoon, at about 16:00 BST, ahead of his side's game at Everton on Sunday. Our man Simon Stone has just arrived at Carrington to hear what the Dutchman has to say.

Watford should not feel pressure - Layun

Getty Images

Watford are not under pressure despite being on the verge of promotion to the Premier League, says Miguel Layun.

A top-two finish will be secured if the Championship leaders win at Brighton on Saturday, Middlesbrough lose at Fulham and Norwich fail to beat Rotherham.

Mexican full-back Layun, 26, told BBC Three Counties Radio: "In life there is lots to be pressured [about]. This is just a big chance. We have to take this chance for us, for the supporters and for everyone who believes in this team."

Aitor Karanka press conference

Things are heating up at the bottom of the Premier League, but what about the teams vying to replace the top-flights bottom three, who are currently embroiled in one hell of a tussle at the top of the Championship.

Middlesbrough are currently third in the table, a point behind leaders Watford and level on points with second-placed Bournemouth and their boss Aitor Karanka says this weekend's game at Fulham is the most important for the club in the six years since relegation from the Premier League.

"They're playing their best and they for me are amazing. I said after Norwich that they deserve promotion because they're a very good team."

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

Danny Evans

If Villa stay up and win the FA cup, do you think Sherwood should get manager of the year?

"It would be a fantastic achievement from Tim Sherwood Danny, but if Chelsea - as they surely will - win the Premier League and add that to the Capital One Cup then the Manager of the Year has to be Jose Mourinho."

PA

Rowett happy to stay at St Andrew's

Empics

Birmingham City manager Gary Rowett does not see his future being anywhere other than at St Andrew's next season.

The 41-year-old has transformed the club's fortunes since taking over last October,

"For me, success comes by doing the right things, and success for me at the moment would be increasing what we've done at Birmingham and seeing if we can be a top 10 team," he told BBC WM.

Conference set for title showdown

Rival bosses Martin Allen and Darrell Clarke both have their sights on the Conference title as their Barnet and Bristol Rovers teams head into Saturday's final round of matches. Barnet are at home to Gateshead with a one-point advantage over Rovers, who entertain relegation-threatened Alfreton.

"Anyone can get promoted - this is to be champions. Champions is special. Champions is extraordinary," said Allen.

Rovers hope to become the first side for 25 years to win the Conference after being relegated the year before and Clarke said: "We've been through a lot and I thank the supporters for giving me the opportunity to turn the club around."

Burnley v Leicester, Saturday, 15:00 BST

Getty Images

Arguably the biggest game at the bottom of the Premier League is Burnley v Leicester at Turf Moor. Burnley are currently bottom, two points from safety with five games remaining, while the Foxes have won three matches in a row and have six left to play. The two managers, Sean Dyche and Nigel Pearson have been chatting about the game and we've chopped it all together into a nice video.

Tribute to AP

Frank Keogh

BBC Sport

.

"The current champion jump jockey's trophy is to be retired & given to 20-time winner AP McCoy to keep permanently on Saturday."

Emmanuel Frimpong

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong, who plays for Ufa in the Russian Premier League, on Twitter: Celebrating a 3-2 win against Krasnodar.

Surely worth a smile Emmanuel?

Tony Pulis press conference

Hull's Premier League run-in is bad. West Brom's is worse: Liverpool (h), Manchester United (a), Newcastle (a), Chelsea (h), Arsenal (a). The do have an eight point gap between themselves and the bottom three, though, and Tony Pulis is backing his team to thrive...

"We can't be below 100 per cent, not just physically but mentally. Every game that we play in now we will be the underdog and I've always enjoyed that."

Champions League - vote results

.

Drum roll please...

We asked who you think will win the Champions League this season and it was pretty close - with the exception of outsiders Juventus.

Barcelona edge the vote though, with 38.6%, closely followed by Bayern's 30.6%. Then comes, perhaps surprisingly, Real Madrid on 20.9% and then Juve on 9.9%.

What is your best #sportingbanter

Alex, Liverpool: Playing a footie match about a month ago. Flicked the ball over a guys head then stopped with the ball and said to my teammate 'Can we get a replay of that?' I then dribbled with the ball down the wing only to slice my cross out of play and land firmly on by backside. While still on the floor I hear a voice from the opposition chirp 'Can we get a replay of that?'. I probably deserved it.

Send your examples via Twitter, using #sportingbanter or by text (81111).

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

Chris Draper‏

What next for Adnan Januzaj? I'd hoped to see more of him this year - would a loan next season help?

"It is fair to say he has not developed as everyone thought he would after making such an impact last season, Chris. No doubt Louis van Gaal will take another look in the summer when he has assembled his squad - and I agree that a loan would be a good option. He needs to be playing."

Reuters

Champions League draw reaction

Josep Guardiola, Bayern Munich coach, reacting to his side drawing Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final:

"We want to beat Barcelona but they have a quality team. It will be the first time that I have gone back, so it is going to be special and emotional for me.

"You always face big sides in the semi-finals of a competition. Last year we played Real, this year it is Barcelona. I have a lot of respect for them. I am glad that I will have the chance to face them during my career, but at the end of the day it is two games of football."

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

Craig Drury

Hi Phil - what's your favourite type of cheese?

"Now come on Craig. I Camembert it when people ask daft questions."

AFP/GETTY

Yorkshire sign Middlebrook as cover

Yorkshire have signed all-rounder James Middlebrook on a short-term deal, as cover for England international Adil Rashid.

Leeds-born Middlebrook, 37, returns for a second spell at Headingley having played for the reigning county champions between 1998 and 2001.

He was released by Northants at the end of last season and had been playing club cricket in the Bradford League.

What is your best #sportingbanter

Getty Images

Mark Keyte: Flintoff saying watch the windows when England were in the field against the Windies.

Joe Alborough: The Samuel Eto'o 'old man' celebration last season.

Keepie Uppie: Suarez dive in front of Moyes.

Send your examples via Twitter, using #sportingbanter or by text (81111).

Pulis's Liverpool edge

How's this for a stat?

Tony Pulis has never lost a Premier League home game against Liverpool (W3 D3)...

The West Brom boss is currently speaking to the media ahead of Saturday's visit of the Reds. Will that record continue?

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

If you could change one thing about football what would it be?

"Can I just answer with a personal favourite - a Champions League place for the FA Cup winners."

Getty Images

Champions League draw reaction

EPA

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti on his side's Champions League semi-final against Juventus:

"Juventus is a club that have a legendary history and it is returning to a semi-final after 12 years. They are having a very good season and have practically won the Italian league. That means they can focus more on the Champions League.

"We are confident that we can follow our dream, which is to reach another final after last year. We need Real Madrid to be at their best to win, we need the same side that played against Atletico, with the same enthusiasm and hope. We have a lot of confidence."

SA paceman joins Middlesex for T20

Middlesex have signed South Africa fast bowler Kyle Abbott for the first half of their T20 Blast campaign.

The 27-year-old played for Hampshire in last summer's competition, and is currently appearing for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League.

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

Benji Deane: What is the reason for Liverpool's decline?

"Two reasons for a start Benji. They lost a world-class player in Luis Suarez to Barcelona in the summer and the other main contributor of goals, Daniel Sturridge, has barely kicked a ball all season because of injury. It is almost impossible to replace that.

"Also, no-one can currently make any serious case that that £75m brought in for Suarez has been used wisely. On current evidence, only Emre Can can be regarded as anything like a success.

"Dejan Lovren has been awful, never looking anything like a £20m defender while Lazar Markovic has also failed to deliver at £20m. Adam Lallana spends too much time injured while Alberto Moreno has declined sharply after a good start.

"And where do we even start with the signing of Mario Balotelli? A dreadful decision.

"The fix is to find a way to fix Sturridge, sign another top-class striker, find a world-class replacement for Steven Gerrard and unload the deadwood.

Easier said than done."

Getty Images

'Jester from Leicester' in danger

At the World Championship snooker, Mark Selby is in danger of falling victim to the 'Crucible curse' as he trails 10-6 to Anthony McGill at the end of the morning session.

No first-time champion has ever successfully defended the crown and the 'Jester from Leicester' looks set to follow suit. McGill needs three more frames to see out the match when play resumes tonight.

Ask McNulty

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

We've been asking for your #askmcnulty questions across social media this morning and the man himself has selected some of the best.

@specialthings41 Do you think an emotional club like Liverpool needs an emotional man like Jurgen Klopp at the helm?

I actually do not think emotion has anything to do with it - ability has. And who says Brendan Rodgers isn't emotional about Liverpool? He may not wear his heart on his sleeve like Klopp but no-one should assume he doesn't feel the emotions of the club just as much.

My opinion is that Liverpool should keep faith with Rodgers. This is a man who almost won the title last year - but there is no escaping he and the club must get things right this summer and the pressure will be on right from the start of next season.

Reuters

What is your best #sportingbanter

PA

We asked for your the best cheeky on-field exchange you've ever heard or witnessed? We want to hear about any brilliant sledges, mocking celebrations or humbling moments inflicted in the name of sport.

Alistair Smalley: The best has to be Jimmy Bullard penalty celebration mocking Phil Brown's ticking off

Will Derbyshire: Mitch Johnson bowled the delivery after asking Jimmy Anderson if he was chirping as he wasn't getting any wickets.

What We Learnt Today: Tino Best v Flintoff 'Mind the windows" - class.

Send your examples via Twitter, using #sportingbanter or by text (81111).

Johnson available for Sunderland

Back to the Adam Johnson story, and Sunderland manager Dick Advocaat confirms that the player remains available for selection despite facing child sex charges.

"He still has to come in, but in principle if he feels okay, then he will be a member of the squad," the Dutchman tells reporters.

On air now

BBC Radio 5 live

You can listen to the Friday Sport's Panel now, with swimmer Jazz Carlin, BMX racer Liam Phillips and Australian Rugby Union player Nathan Hines.

What is your favourite #sportingbanter

AP

Thanks for all your Champions League hero suggestions. We are going to move on our debate now. You will probably have seen the salute send-off that West Indies' Marlon Samuels gave to England's Ben Stokes yesterday (if not, see above).

So, what we want to know about is the best cheeky on-field exchange you've ever heard or witnessed? We want to hear about any brilliant sledges, mocking celebrations or humbling moments inflicted in the name of sport.

Send your examples via Twitter, using #sportingbanter or by text (81111).

Manuel Pellegrini news conference

More from Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini ahead of Aston Villa's visit on Saturday:

"One thing is the final of the FA Cup, another thing is relegation from the league. It will be a very tough game.

"We have five or six teams with the same power and money. Every year it will be a fight to win the title.

"We are more thinking about the one point gap above us than the seven point gap below - we keep a positive mind."

Five or six teams? Are you sure Manuel?

Manuel Pellegrini news conference

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini tells the media defender Vincent Kompany will be missing Saturday's visit of Aston Villa.

"Tomorrow Kompany. Clichy, Nasri and Jovetic are injured. Bony and Milner have recovered for this game."

"It's important how Vincent will improve in the next week. I think he'll be missing for at least two weeks more."

Champions League draw reaction

Real Madrid forward Toni Kroos tweets: On the #roadtoberlin we have to overcome @juventusfc. A tough challenge but with you madridistas we will make it!

Manuel Pellegrini news conference

Manchester City fc

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini is the next Premier League manager up in front of the media, ahead of his side's visit of Aston Villa on Saturday.

Jose Mourinho news conference

Getty Images

Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger have had the occasional run-in down the years, including earlier in the season when the Chelsea boss received a touch-line shove from his Arsenal rival. However, the Blues boss has played down the rivalry between them...

"For me, he is not my rival, he is the manager of a big club in the same city where I work and live. It is a big club with the same objectives we have. Because of that always comes a bit of rivalry, but for me it is not different from when I was at Inter with the Milan manager or at Real with the Atletico manager."

Jose Mourinho news conference

It looks like Chelsea top-scorer Diego Costa will not be making his return from injury against Arsenal, but may be back for the Blues' game against Leicester. Here is what Jose Mourinho had to say about the subject at his press conference...

"Diego Costa is nearly there. If not Arsenal then Leicester. We are coping for the difficulties of every match without him. The team is playing in a different way but we are doing our job. We are more strategic and less artistic but are getting results.

"I would love Diego to be back but I trust the other people. [Dominic] Solanki did not play yesterday with the U21s to be ready if we need him."

Jose Mourinho news conference

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has been asked about Eden Hazard's contribution to Chelsea's season and Zinedine Zidane's assertion that the Belgian is in the top three players in the world at the moment...

"In this moment, he is a fantastic player. I always say the most important thing is the team and their targets. If he wins the Premier League his season is fantastic. If on top of that he gets individual awards then it is nice.

"He just signed a new contract. We didn't put a gun to his head. He likes Chelsea, he likes the league and he has made a commitment to that. I don't think he is interested in going."

London Welsh complete triple signing

Some Rugby Union news for you.

London Welsh have signed centre Guy Armitage, 23, winger Josh Drauniniu, 29, and full-back Martyn Thomas, 28, for next season's Championship campaign.

Mourinho news conference

PA

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho does not think Cesc Fabregas, who makes his first return to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, will struggle to cope should he get a hostile reception.

"If he has some bad reactions he can cope," he said. "I know he chose Chelsea. I don't know why he didn't choose Arsenal."

Champions League draw

Rafinha Alcantara

Let the sibling rivalry commence.

Barcelona attacking midfielder Rafinha Alcantara, whose brother Thiago Alcantara plays for Bayern, tweets "Always a pleasure, @Thiago6 ...!!!" after the two were drawn together in the Champions League semi-final.

Jose Mourinho news conference

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is talking to the media ahead of Saturday's huge Premier League trip to Arsenal.

Stay here for what he has to say...

BreakingRotherham deducted three points

Big news in the Championship as Rotherham United have been deducted three points for fielding an ineligible player against Brighton.

They are now just a point ahead of Millwall, who are in the last relegation spot, with a game in hand. Game on again in the battle to beat the drop.

'Bring it on'

Mario Gotze

You imagine the Bayern Munich forward Mario Gotze would have labelled any draw a "great draw". But, he is right, Barcelona v Bayern Munich should be terrific...

Champions League draw

AFP

Luis Enrique, Barcelona coach, talking to the Champions League website about being drawn against Bayern Munich:

"It is a special game because of Pep, for me and for the players. It's a great date for all Barca fans. We will go with the objective of winning both at home and away from home. The process is the same."

Get involved

Allan Abbas: Juventus will win the Champions league if they avoid Barcelona in the final.

David Ivett: Predicting a Munich v Juve final... Looking forward to that.

El Clasico final?

An El Clasico Champions League final remains a possibility this season. It would be the first, although there have been three semi-finals between the fierce rivals. We've already the covered the first in 1959-60. The other two have been in more recent times.

In 2001-02, Real again beat Barca en route to victory in the final as Zinedine Zidane and Steve McManaman gave them a 2-0 away win before Raul's goal gave them a home draw in the second leg to seal their progression.

Nine seasons later, Barcelona would get their revenge courtesy of an identical set of results. Lionel Messi scored twice in the Bernabeu and Pedro's goal helped the Catalan club to a home draw. Barca would go on to beat Manchester United in the final.

Champions League draw

Jordi Mestre, Barcelona vice-president told the Champions League website: The draw wasn't a surprise, but Bayern and, above all, the first game at home makes things difficult. We know Josep Guardiola well, Luis Enrique and he know each other well and that will bring another attraction to the game.

"Josep Guardiola is a coach who has given us a lot, and when he comes to the Camp Nou he will be treated for what he is; a great coach and Barcelonista. The tie is 50-50 and Bayern will be a very tough opponent."

El Clasico final?

Getty Images

So, with all due respect to Bayern Munich and Juventus, there remains the potential for an El Clasico final in Berlin. There has never been a Barcelona v Real Madrid final in the European Cup before, although there has been three semi-finals between the two.

The first, in 1959-60, Real Madrid won 6-2 over two legs, with Alfredo Di Stefano and Ferenc Puskas doing most of the damage. Real would beat Eintracht Frankfurt 7-3 in the final (Di Stefano scored three, Puskas four) in what is widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time.

Friends reunited

.

The Champions League have designed this tasty little graphic, pointing out that former Barcelona team mates Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique will be going head-to-head as managers of Bayern and Barca respectively.

This semi-final has all the makings of being an absolute belter...

Get involved

Robert Judd on Facebook: C'mon Juve and I don't care who wins between Bayern and Barca. As long as Real don't win.

Nick Anderson: It could be a nightmare for Barca or go completely the other way and Barca might dominate with their technical skills. If only Messi would wake up and start scoring goals again.

George Evans: When Italians walk this far its not in vain Juve's year.

Champions League vote

Getty Images

So who is going to win the Champions League? You can vote on this page until 14:00 BST, and the results will be published soon after. Please be aware of the terms and conditions.

About time for Juventus

Getty Images

Juventus are in Champions League semi-finals for the first time in 12 years - they haven't won it for 19.

In 2003, their last-four opponents were also Real Madrid. The Old Lady lost 2-1 in Madrid but won 3-1 in Turin to set up an all-Italian final against AC Milan, which they lost on penalties at Old Trafford.

The neutral would take a repeat of that...

Steve Bruce press conference

Hull have an ugly Premier League run-in this season. Check this out for a final six fixtures: Crystal Palace (a), Liverpool (h), Arsenal (h), Burnley (h), Tottenham (a), Manchester United (h). Here are Steve Bruce's thoughts...

"I've said repeatedly that if we thought getting 28 points was going to be enough we are very mistaken. There is a level of points you have to get to, I don't know if that will be 34, 35, or 36, but what I do know is that we still need another couple of results.

"We've got six games to play, four of them are at home, and even though they are tough fixtures that will be critical. Let's hope it can be the turning point for us."

Steve Bruce press conference

Getty Images

The dreaded R-word was bandied around the Hull press conference earlier and manager Steve Bruce did his best to head it off at the pass. He did, however, reveal that the Tigers players would be in line for a wage cut if they do suffer the drop...

"I don't want to go into it too much because we want to stay positive but the club has a strict policy that if we do get relegated then the club doesn't fall into drastic times, which a lot of clubs do. Everybody concerned takes a huge reduction in salary, and most players take a 40 or 50% reduction."

Nedved looking forward to Juventus test

Former midfielder and Juventus ambassador Pavel Nevded tells his club: "I'm convinced we'll put in two great performances, then we'll see if that's enough to keep our run going."

Juventus will play Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final.

Advantage Bayern Munich?

Getty Images

Barcelona head-to-head record v Bayern: W1 D2 L5 F9 A15

Barcelona and Bayern have met in eight previous European ties, all since 1996 - and Barcelona don't have good memories.

Their most recent meetings came in the 2012/13 semi-finals, when Bayern won 4-0 in Munich and 3-0 at the Camp Nou - the biggest aggregate victory in a UEFA Champions League semi-final.

Bayern also got the better of Barcelona in the 1995/96 UEFA Cup semi-finals, following a 2-2 first-leg draw in Munich with a 2-1 success at the Camp Nou.

Champions League draw

Real Madrid ambassador Emilio Butragueno has also been talking at the Champions League semi-final after his side's being drawn with Juventus: "It will be a very tough semi. Congratulations to Juventus and it will be an honour for Madrid as well. If we get some players back from injury it will be better but it will be a tough semi-final nevertheless."

BreakingJohnson can continue to play for Sunderland

Away from the Champions League, a bit of breaking news in the Premier League where Sunderland will not be suspending Adam Johnson after the winger was charged with sexual offences.

They said in a statement: "Following yesterday's statement from Durham Constabulary, the club recognises that the formal legal process must take its course and whilst our position remains unchanged, we will keep the matter under review.

"The club will not be making any further comment."

Champions League record - Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich's Champions League semi-final record: Won 10. Lost 6.

This season: Won 7. Drawn 1. Lost 2. For 30. Against 8

Top scorer: Thomas Muller (6)

Champions League

.

A couple of players will be looking to equal Clarence Seedorf's record of four Champions League wins this season...

Champions League draw

Getty Images

Is this an omen? Former Real Madrid legends Michel Salgado and Fernando Morientes hold the Champions League trophy.

Bayern expect tough test

Bayern Munich ambassador Paul Breitner is asked about his side's draw with Barcelona at the Champions League draw ceremony:

"It will be very tough to reach the final. We will have to be at full strength in both matches to beat Barcelona," he said.

Barca return for Guardiola

Getty Images

So, it is a Barcelona return for Pep Guardiola. The current Bayern Munich boss played for Barca for over a decade and then went on to become the architect of one of the greatest sides in the club's history as manager. He won the European Cup as a player in 1992 and led the Calatan club to the Champions league trophy twice (in 2009 and 2011). He has since won the Bundesliga, German Cup, Uefa Super Cup and Club World Cup with Bayern.

Gary Lineker

BBC Sport

"Barcelona v Bayern Munich. That might be worth watching."

You could be right Gary...

Champions League draw

Getty Images

Second semi-final: Juventus (Ita) v Real Madrid (Spa)

Ties to be played 5/6 May and 12/13 May 2015.

Getty Images

Champions League draw

First semi-final: Barcelona (Spa) v Bayern Munich (Ger)

Ties to be played 5/6 May and 12/13 May 2015.

Champions League draw

AFP

Karl-Heinz Riedle is hanging around for the Champions League draw. Here comes the big one.

Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Juventus.

What a line-up.

Europa League draw

Europa League

Sevilla v Fiorentina

Fiorentina's European semi-final record: W4 L2

Last semi-final appearance: 2007/08 (UEFA Cup, 0-0, lost 4-2 on pens v Rangers FC)

This season: W7 D4 L1 F21 A7

Top scorer: Juan Manuel Vargas (3)

Sevilla's European semi-final record: W3 L0

Last semi-final appearance: 2013/14 (UEFA Europa League, 3-3, won on away goals v Valencia CF)

This season: W8 D3 L1 F21 A12

Top scorer: Carlos Bacca (4)

Europa League draw

Napoli v Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk

Dnipro's European semi-final record: none

Last semi-final appearance: none

This season: Won 5. Drawn 3. Lost 4. For 11. Against 9

Top scorer: Nikola Kalinić (3)

Napoli's European semi-final record: Won 1 Lost 1

Last semi-final appearance: 1988/89 (UEFA Cup, 4-2 v FC Bayern Munich)

This season: W8 D3 L1 F25 A7

Top scorer: Gonzalo Higuain (7)

Europa League final

The Europa League final will take place in Warsaw and, following the draw that has just taken place, the winners of semi-final one will be considered the home team. So that will be Napoli or Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk.

Europa League draw

Second semi-final: Sevilla (Spa) v Fiorentina (Ita).

Legs will be played on the 7 and 14 May 2015.

Europa League draw

First semi-final: Napoli (Ita) v Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk (Ukr)

Legs will be played on the 7 and 14 May 2015.

Bayern Munich and Germany legend Karl-Heinz Riedle will be conducting the Europa League draw and here we go...

Champions League draw

The draw ceremony begins in Nyon.... Don't get too excited though, there is bound to be a few formalities first.

In the Europa League, holders Sevilla are through along with Ukraine's Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk and Italian duo Fiorentina and Napoli.The final is at the National Stadium in Warsaw on 27 May.

Bayern Munich, Juventus, Real Madrid and Barcelona are left in the Champions League, with the final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on 6 June.

We begin with Gianni Infantino, UEFA General Secretary, saying hello.

Champions League draw

GLYN KIRK

Barcelona will be disappointed that there are no English sides left in the Champions League. They love to beat our boys in the final. Barca's last three final appearances were against English opposition (Manchester United in 2011 and 2009 and Arsenal in 2006) and they won them all.

They were particularly ruthless in 2011, when Pedro, Lionel Messi and David Villa scored the goals in a 3-1 win at Wembley.

Bournemouth boss Howe charged by FA

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe and his assistant Jason Tindall have both been charged by the Football Association for misconduct.

The charge relates to the 2-2 draw against Sheffield Wednesday at Goldsands Stadium on 18 April.

It is alleged Howe's post-match comments constitute improper conduct, while Tindall is accused of using abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards a match official. The pair have until 18:00 BST on 27 April to respond.

Champions league draw

Getty Images

Bayern Munich last appeared in the Champions League final in 2013 - an all-German affair which saw them claim a 2-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley. Mario Mandzukic opened the scoring for Bayern before an Ilkay Gundogan penalty levelled the game. Arjen Robben won the game for Munich in the 89th minute.

It ended a miserable run for Bayern, who had lost in the final in two of the three previous years, to Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan in 2010 and then Chelsea on penalties in 2012.

Predict your #championsleaguehero

We want to know which player will excel for his side in the Champions League semi-finals...

Haris Hameed: Pogba's fitness will decide whether Juventus have what it takes or if it was just a fluke and an easy draw.

KirrubanKrishnarajah: Tevez has been 2nd fiddle for so long, at Juv he seems to have found his place. The Old Lady have been the dark horses.

Saqib Ali: Messi is obvious but I think suarez could be a big factor in barca winning it. He's bang on form.

Send your responses to us either via Twitter, using the hashtag #championsleaguehero, or text, on 81111, including your name and location.

Champions League draw

Getty Images

Returning to the the nostalgia path, and how about the 1998 final between Juventus and Real Madrid, settled by a single goal from Predrag Mijatovic? That was Real's seventh European title and also the first they had won in 32 years.

The Real side that day also contained the likes of Roberto Carlos, Clarence Seedorf (who loves a Champions League win) and Raul. Juve had Edgar Davids, Zinedine Zidane and Filippo Inzaghi amongst their ranks.

Champions League record - Juventus

Getty Images

Juventus's Champions League semi-final record: Won 7. Lost 3.

This season: Won 6. Drawn 2. Lost 2. For 13. Against 5.

Top scorer: Carlos Tevez (6)

Champions League draw

Getty Images

The four semi-finalists in this season's Champions League have won the competition 21 times between them. Real Madrid lead that tally with a record 10, the last of which came last season. Bayern have five to their name (a German record), Barcelona have four and Juventus have won it twice.

Outsiders Juve have gone the longest without lifting the trophy - 19 years since their win over Ajax in 1996. They had a pretty damn fine team back then. Check this out: Peruzzi, Ferrara, Pessotto, Torricelli, Vierchowod, Sousa, Deschamps, Conte, Vialli, Del Piero, Ravanelli. That is some front three.

European draws to come

.

Champions League on Twitter: The @EuropaLeague draw will take place first from 12CET, immediately followed by the #UCLdraw.

That is 11:00 BST, so not long now...

Gloucester face RFU hearing

Some breaking rugby union news now and Gloucester are facing a Rugby Football Union hearing for fielding an unregistered player. Mariano Galarza, who did not hold effective registration for Gloucester Rugby, played for them against Sale Sharks on 29 March.

London Welsh were deducted five points and fined £15,000 for fielding ineligible player Tyson Keats in 2013.

Champions League draw with bite

Getty Images

So, what potential match-ups could we have in the Champions League draw? Any way you split it, it looks interesting. We could have an El Clasico (although I'm sure their are plenty of folk who would like to see that as the final), a showdown between Germany's finest and one of the Spanish giants, a re-run of the 1998 final. Or how about Barca's Luis Suarez coming face to face (or should that be jaw to shoulder?) again with Juve's Giorgio Chiellini? We'll find out very soon.

How much?!

Getty Images

How much would you pay for tickets to a sporting event? £94,000? If the answer to that question is yes then you may want to get yourself online sharpish because that is currently the going rate for entry to the MGM Grand for Floyd Mayweather v Manny Pacquiao, and they only going to get more expensive.

Only 1,000 tickets were made available to the public for the fight on 2 May in Las Vegas and sold out in minutes before some remerged on websites at around 62 times the original price. That's a tidy profit.

Predict the #championsleaguehero

We want to know which player will excel for his side in the Champions League semi-finals...

Rory Lemmon: Want to see an El Classico semi-final like in 2011, an ugly game made perfect by Messi magic. Better over two legs

Dom May: I think they Neymar could be the key to barca winning it, his performance against PSG was amazing.

Jon Turner: Going with @XabiAlonso and Bayern Munich, destroyed Porto the other day and are good enough to win the UCL

Send your responses to us either via Twitter, using the hashtag #championsleaguehero, or text, on 81111, including your name and location.

Let Root grow

Reuters

It seems to be an English compulsion to make the best player captain. And then complain about them being rubbish when the pressure of skippering handicaps their talent. Well, appointing "cheeky little Yorkshireman" Joe Root England captain too soon could make him "half the player", according to former international spinner Graeme Swann...

"If they do it too soon, it will take that little edge away. If he tries to be too serious, he will be half the player."

The Root of the matter

Getty Images

One man who truly deserves a salute is Joe Root, who scored an unbeaten 118 on day three in Grenada. The 24-year-old is now averaging 103.7 since his recall to the side and has passed 50 in each of his last six innings - equalling the England record. Test Match Special commentator Jonathan Agnew was glowing in his praise in his latest column...

"Root was dynamic in his unbeaten innings of 118. He's a very jaunty young man at the best of times, and from the moment he came in he was busy - which was exactly what England needed at a point in their innings when they were in danger of getting bogged down."

Cricket bantz

AP

England are in control in a game of cricket. It's not often these days that you get to write such a thing. But Joe Root's superb century on day three in Grenada means the tourists lead the West Indies by 74 runs with two days to go.

However, it is a celebration - Marlon Samuels salute to send off Ben Stokes - which has stolen some of the limelight and led the Windies bowling coach Curtly Ambrose to say that his players should keep having fun at England's expense.

"There's nothing wrong with a little bantering," said Ambrose. "This is international cricket."

Ask McNulty

Getty Images

Champions League draw. Battles at the top and bottom of the Premier League. Championship promotion and relegation. It is another big week in English football. What we need is a man who can answer all the pertinent questions and debate the possible outcomes. Well, we have the very man for the job: our chief football writer Phil McNulty, who will be answering your questions later today. You can submit your questions via the BBC Sport Facebook page and on Twitter using the hashtag #askmcnulty.

Lukaku could be "one of the best"

Reuters

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has been speaking to the media ahead of Sunday's visit of Manchester United and it appears he has big plans for striker Romelu Lukaku.

He said: "Rom has a very critical view of himself, but I think that'll help him become one of the best strikers in world football.

"The chemistry between Lukaku and Kone has been pleasing and it's good to know we can call on that when needed.

"There have been tough lessons this season - but we have taken a lot from them and we have started to show that."

Predict the #championsleaguehero

We want to know which player will excel for his side in the Champions League semi-finals...

James Marshall: it's a great tribute to Luis Suarez that we are talking about his football ability and not his past misdemeanours. The Champions League is his stage and will be the star of a Barcelona side which lifts the trophy.

Saqib Ali: Messi is obvious but I think suarez could be a big factor in barca winning it. He's bang on form.

KirrubanKrishnarajah: Tevez has been 2nd fiddle for so long, at Juv he seems to have found his place. The Old Lady have been the dark horses.

Send your responses to us either via Twitter, using the hashtag #championsleaguehero, or text, on 81111, including your name and location.

European back pages

Sport

Or perhaps not everyone wants Juventus...

Spanish newspaper Sport claims Barcelona actually want to play Bayern Munich.

It's like deciding between a Ferrari or a Lamborghini isn't it.

European back pages

El Mundo Deportivo

Poor old Juventus...

According to Spanish newspaper El Mundo Deportivo, "Everybody wants Juventus" in today's Champions League draw.

Don't forget we will be bring you the draw as it happens in Sportsday from 11:00 BST. Juventus are joined by Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid. The dream quartet?

European back pages

AS

It appears as though Real Madrid loanee Javier Hernandez does not see a future for himself at Manchester United.

Chicharito, who scored Real's Champions League quarter-final winner in midweek, is waiting for the call from Madrid to tell him they want to make his loan switch permanent.

Spanish newspaper AS reports the European champions have an option to buy the Mexican for €10m.

Fiorentina's Micah Richards on Twitter: Happy birthday to Stuart Pearce!!! The manager who believed in me at such a young age and gave me the opportunity.

Pearce is 53 today...

Today's gossip

Getty Images

Chelsea want Gareth Bale and Raphael Varane from Real Madrid. Manchester United and PSG in a battle to sign Wesley Sneijder. West Ham have told David Moyes he is their preferred candidate to take over from manager Sam Allardyce. This and more in today's gossip. Read it. Read it now.

Savage says...

Getty Images

This weekend's Premier League fixtures serve up Arsenal v Chelsea, as if you didn't know. It is second v first in the table, which is probably how it will end, but at least a win for the former will keep a bit of interest in the race. Arsenal may not catch Chelsea this season but a win can strike an important blow for the Gunners, as our pundit Robbie Savage explains...

"A win, no matter how they get it against the champions elect, would show they will really mean business next year."

Premier League press conferences

Getty Images

There are still a few Premier League managers set to face the media today for their pre-match press conferences, including Hull's Steve Bruce and Everton's Roberto Martinez at 09:00 BST. Jose Mourinho and Louis van Gaal to come later. We'll bring you all the best of what the bosses have to say ahead of this weekend's top-flight shenanigans.

Predict your #championsleaguehero

We want to know which player will excel for his side in the Champions League semi-finals...

José Bellamy: It's the time for James Rodríguez, he's poised to become a superstar in his own right.

Callum Mankl: I think Gareth Bale will silence the critics and shut Real fans up.

Ollie James: Messi will one again prove himself (not that he needs to!) to be the greatest player ever.

Send your responses to us either via Twitter, using the hashtag #championsleaguehero, or text, on 81111, including your name and location.

Brighton to release Mackail-Smith

Getty Images

A bit of breaking football news now and Championship club Brighton have offered new deals to goalkeeper Casper Ankergren and full-back Inigo Calderon, but club-record signing Craig Mackail-Smith will be released in the summer.

Striker Mackail-Smith, 31, joined for a reported £2.5m in 2011 and has scored three goals in 35 outings this season. Kemy Agustien, Aaron Hughes, Vitalijs Maksimenko and Paddy McCourt will also leave when the campaign finishes.

Champions League draw

So, the Champions League draw; what's the plan? Well, I'll tell you. It's taking place today at Uefa headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland and gets under way at 11:00 BST. The four teams involved are Spanish pair Real Madrid and Barcelona, German side Bayern Munich and Juventus of Italy.

The draw for the semi-finals of the Europa League also takes place on Friday. Holders Sevilla are through along with Ukraine's Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk and Italian duo Fiorentina and Napoli.

Before all that, though, you can expect a pre-show of what Europe's governing body deems to be "entertainment". Basically, Uefa's got talent.

Get Involved

For today's debate, we are asking who will be the star man for their respective side in the Champions League semi-finals? Is Cristiano Ronaldo going to run rings around everyone (again)? Will Luis Suarez pay off that whopping great price tag by restoring Barca to the top of Europe? Will Carlos Tevez do the business for the underdogs? Or will Robert Lewandowski become a hero for Bayern?

Send your responses to us either via Twitter, using the hashtag #championsleaguehero, or text, on 81111, including your name and location.

Root Master

Daily Telegraph

The Daily Telegraph go with the cricket (no surprise there) and pay tribute to Joe Root, who scored a century to help England take control of the second Test against the West Indies. Root is rapidly establishing himself as the star man for England. Speaking of which...

The Fab times are over

Daily Mirror

The Daily Mirror go bigger on the break-down in the relationship between Arsene Wenger and Cesc Fabregas by going all Cliff Richard on us with their headline. I wonder if Arsene is losing sleep? Or counting sheep (sheeeeep)?

Sterling urged to sign Reds deal

Daily Star

Fresh from signing his new long-term deal at Liverpool, Jordan Henderson has urged team-mate Raheem Sterling to follow suit by committing his future to the club. The Star also go with Jack Grealish's apology for inhaling nitrous oxide and Arsene Wenger's claims that Cesc Fabregas snubbed a return to Arsenal in favour of Chelsea.

Champions League draw

Getty Images

It's Champions League (and Europa League) draw time! The four finest teams in Europe (and the ones in the Europa League) are primed and ready to see who they will be pitted against in the semi-finals of Europe's top club competition (and the Europa League). And, after some talking, some more talking, probably a musical number, some dancing and then some more talking, a footballing great will pluck four plastic balls out of a dish.

That gets under way at 11:00 BST, so we've got a bit of time to fill. Let's start that process with some of this morning's back pages...

Good morning

It is that time of year again, when thousands of runners ranging from the elite to the amateur check their trainers, tape up their nipples, and get the big Womble outfit out of the attic. Yes folks, it is London Marathon time.

On Sunday, the streets of the capital will be awash with a sweating, panting mass of the brilliant, the brave, the bold and the foolish. Over the next 11 hours (roughly the amount of time it will take that Womble to complete the course) we'll bring you all the build-up to the world's premier 26.2 mile event.

But first...