Sportsday - Tuesday's news as it happened

1. Sterling 'has not achieved anything'
2. I want to be best of my generation - McIlroy
3. Chris Ramsey appointed QPR head coach
4. Wenger coy on moves for Sterling & Milner
5. Get involved #bbcsportsday

Goodbye

That's it from Tuesday's edition of Sportsday. Thanks for your company and all your contributions. We're back on Wednesday from 08:00 BST sharp. Until then...

Bristol to use play-off 'hurt'

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Bristol will use the "hurt" of last season's Championship play-off final loss when they play Worcester on Wednesday, says wing Charlie Amesbury.

Andy Robinson's side, who were pipped to promotion by London Welsh 12 months ago, face Warriors in this year's play-off final first leg at Ashton Gate.

"There's a lot of hurt there that we can fall back on and memories that we don't want to repeat," Amesbury told BBC Points West. "That will provide some propulsion for us going into the final.

"It meant we missed out on another year in the Premiership which, as professional rugby players, is where we all want to be."

Jenkins expects Monk to sign 'quickly'

Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins says he expects his manager Garry Monk to sign a new contract "very quickly".

"I think we'll find a solution very quickly, we've got a good relationship with Garry and we'll find some way of working things out that he is rewarded in the right way," Jenkins tells BBC Wales.

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Monk signed a three-year contract last summer.

Peters hits fifty for Northants before rain

Northants 107-2

Just 28 overs were bowled between Northants and Surrey on a second rain-affected day at Wantage Road. After the opening day was washed out, play eventually started at 14:00 BST.

Northants lost two early wickets as Surrey debutant Luke Fletcher (1-37) trapped Kyle Coetzer lbw before Tom Curran (1-38) forced Alex Wakely to edge to second slip.

However Stephen Peters made 64 not out as the hosts reached 107-2 before a hailstorm brought an early close.

Wilkin hit with ban

St Helens captain Jon Wilkin will miss his club's trip to Hull on Friday after being handed a one-match ban. Wilkin admitted a grade B offence of recklessly striking York winger Adam Dent with his arm during Saints' 46-6 Challenge Cup sixth-round win.

Kent pair earn lead at Bristol

Gloucestershire 193, Kent 223-9

Matt Coles and Calum Haggett shared a record eighth-wicket stand against Gloucestershire as Kent strengthened their position on day two of their County Championship match at Bristol.

Coles hit an aggressive 66 and Haggett made a career-best 54 as they put on 119 in to help Kent recover from 98-7.

Paceman Liam Norwell (3-38) bowled well again, with Daniel Bell-Drummond's 26 the best score among Kent's top order. Haggett fell to David Payne (3-36) shortly before rain ended play with Kent on 223-9, 30 runs ahead.

Will Sterling pick up a reward?

Ben Smith

BBC Sport

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"Beautiful evening on Merseyside. Liverpool player awards tonight. Never know, Raheem Sterling might even win an award...

French surprise

France head coach Philippe Saint-Andre has omitted Clermont Auvergne fly-half Camille Lopez and Racing Metro wing Teddy Thomas from a 36-man World Cup training squad.

Lopez and Thomas were both involved during the Six Nations campaign this season, but they have failed to make Saint-Andre's initial World Cup selection.

Crossing the line

BBC Radio 4

'No guy ever wants to get out to a girl', says Kate Cross, who has been talking about her blossoming cricketing career.

Cross, part of the England women's team; also plays for Heywood men's team in Lancashire - the first woman to play in the men's Central Lancashire League - and took 8 for 47 in a recent match.

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Speaking to the Today Programme on BBC Radio 4, she said: "I've always benefitted from playing boy's cricket. As a bowler you've got a lot less room for error when you're bowling at blokes.

"No guy ever wants to get out to a girl. I think that will always be the case, but to be fair I think I've been quite well received."

Exeter say goodbye to Mumm

Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter has paid tribute to departing captain Dean Mumm, who has played his last game before returning to Australia.

The 31-year-old lock is re-joining New South Wales Waratahs after three years in England.

"I'm delighted personally that I've got to know a man of his quality," Baxter told BBC Radio Devon. "I can't speak highly enough of Dean."

Sheringham for Stevenage?

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Former Manchester United, Tottenham and England forward Teddy Sheringham has been given permission by West Ham to speak to Stevenage, according to Press Association Sport.

The League Two club have declined to comment on the reports, but Graham Westley's contract as manager expires imminently and he has not received an offer of an extension.

Sheringham, 49, is attacking coach at West Ham.

Mercedes disagree

Mercedes have rejected claims by Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone that the current turbo hybrid engines have no relevance to road cars.

Ecclestone, 84, has long opposed the engines because they are quieter and more expensive than the previous V8s.

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He told F1 Racing magazine that the engines "have nothing to do with cars; they will never be used in cars".

But Mercedes F1 engine boss Andy Cowell said road cars would soon be using "exactly the same" technology.

Froch needs Vegas

Britain's Carl Froch would regret retiring from boxing without fighting in Las Vegas, according to his fellow former world champion Ricky Hatton.

Froch, who was stripped of his WBA super-middleweight belt, is expected to announce his future plans this week.

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The 37-year-old was due to fight Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in Las Vegas in March but injured his elbow in training.

"The greatest achievement for a British boxer is to see their name up in lights in Vegas," Hatton told BBC Sport.

Past and present Villa

@jjenas8

BBC Sport's former Aston Villa midfielder Jermaine Jenas: Had a good chat with Christian Benteke today back at Villa's training ground.

Coming up

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC Radio 5 live has a special programme looking at the issue of sudden cardiac death and how it poses a threat to young people involved in sport at 20:30 BST.

It includes interviews with people who have lost relatives to the condition as well as specialists at the forefront of research in the UK.

Keighley Cougars rugby league player Danny Jones, 29, died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest during a game earlier this month.

Belgian footballers Tim Nicot and Gregory Mertensdied of cardiac arrest recently.

Venus arrives in Paris

Venus Williams

"I have arrived," writes Venus Williams on Instagram after the 15th seed touches down in Paris ahead of the French Open, which starts on Sunday.

Fixture change upsets Hull KR

Hull KR chief executive Mike Smith says l the Rugby Football League's decision to move his side's home game against Castleford is "a joke".

They were originally scheduled to take on the Tigers on Sunday, 7 June but the game has been brought forward to 5 June, because Castleford have another game on the following Thursday.

"Now that we have progressed through to the Challenge Cup quarter-finals, we will also have to arrange a midweek fixture against Salford Red Devils. Will the RFL be able to accommodate both clubs the way they have with Castleford? I don't think so," added Smith.

Fresh investment for Carlisle

League Two Carlisle United release a statement saying they have received "a prospective new investment offer from a second party which has expressed a genuine and firm interest in taking the club forward on a fresh financial basis".

Perfect replacement

Manchester United already have the "perfect" replacement for David De Gea should the Spanish goalkeeper leave for Real Madrid, according to former Red Devils keeper Raimond van der Gouw.

United signed Victor Valdes, 33, in January - and Van der Gouw said he "has what it takes to stay at the top".

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De Gea, 24, is out of contract next summer and has yet to sign a new deal.

Boss Louis van Gaal believes interest from Real would make it "difficult for De Gea to decide".

McIlroy on his retirement plans

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World number one Rory McIlroy tells BBC sports editor Dan Roan he plans to quit golf when he is 40.

The 26-year-old Northern Irishman says: "Twenty five years at this game should be enough to help me achieve what I want to. If there comes a time when I feel I can't win or give it my best I'd very happily hang up the sticks and do something else."

Watch the full interview on the BBC Sport website.

Rosler has Leeds talks

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Former Wigan and Brentford manager Uwe Rosler has had discussions about the head coach's job at Leeds United.

Neil Redfearn is the current boss at Elland Road but the expectation is his contract to carry on as the head coach will not be renewed when it expires on 30 June.

Rosler, 46, has been out of work since being sacked by Wigan on 13 November. He had previously taken the Latics to the Championship play-offs and an FA Cup semi-final.

Orient 'need English experience'

Pete Norton

Former Leyton Orient defender Matt Lockwood has urged O's owner Francesco Becchetti to appoint a manager who has experience in England.

Orient sacked Italian boss Fabio Liverani last week, following their relegation from League One.

"I'd love for the owner to stick with a British-based manager," Lockwood, 38, told BBC London 94.9.

"Orient could be a great club but the owners need to employ people who know England and the lower leagues."

McIlroy plans to quit at 40

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World number one Rory McIlroy tells BBC Sport he plans to quit golf when he is 40.

In a wide-ranging interview, McIlroy also reveals that he is learning from the 'phenomenon' Tiger Woods, how a shortened format could improve golf participation and how he handled his Masters disappointment.

Read the full interview with BBC Sport editor Dan Roan here.

Dillon signs Dundee Utd deal

Captain Sean Dillon has signed a two-year contract extension to tie him to Dundee United until May 2017.

The Irish defender moved to Tannadice from Shelbourne in January 2007 and has made close to 300 appearances.

"This club is a massive part of my life and the Dundee area is my family home," said the 31-year-old Dubliner.

'I want to be best of my generation'

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Golf world number one Rory McIlroy says he wants to be "the best player of my generation".

The Northern Irishman, 26, won his third tournament of the year on Sunday, recording a seven-stroke victory at the Wells Fargo Classic on the PGA Tour.

In an ominous warning to his rivals, McIlroy pledged to get even better.

He tells BBC sports editor Dan Roan: "I think I'm pretty close to playing my best golf. I'm definitely able to feel more equipped to win now."

Parish wants more fans to buy Speroni tickets

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Crystal Palace co-chairman Steve Parish has described advance ticket sales for goalkeeper Julian Speroni's testimonial as "disappointing".

Speroni marks over a decade's service to Palace when Dundee - the Argentine's former club - visit Selhurst Park on 26 May.

"It is a fantastic achievement by Jules and I'm a little bit disappointed with the ticket sales for his testimonial," Parish tells the South London Press.

"It's going to be a great night - I don't think it would kill a few people to get off their backside and show their support." Tickets are £20 for adults and £5 for over-65s and U16s.

Coming up

BBC sports editor Dan Roan has been chatting to world number one golfer Rory McIlroy. His exclusive interview will appear on the BBC Sport website at 17:00 BST.

Feast of football

The BBC has announced it will devote a whole day of programming to the 2015 FA Cup final, reviving the tradition of all-day coverage of the Wembley showpiece.

AP

The match on Saturday 30 May sees defending champions Arsenal take on Aston Villa live on BBC One.

Highlights of the TV build-up to the big game include special editions of Saturday Kitchen and TOTP 2.

There will also be special content on Radio 5 live and the BBC Sport website.

View the full timetable of events here.

King cleared for Rangers role

Dave King is now free to be appointed chairman of Rangers after the Scottish FA announced he has met their fit and proper criteria.

The South Africa-based businessman took control in March but there were doubts about his exact role due to his convictions for breaches of the income tax laws in South Africa and his involvement on the Ibrox club's board under Craig Whyte's stewardship.

Puncture proves costly for Porte

A late punctureproved costly for Team Sky's Richie Porte as Nicola Boem (Bardiani-CSF) won stage 10 of the Giro d'Italia.

Boem was part of the breakaway which held off the charging peloton in the finale of the 200-kilometres route from Civitanova Marche to Forli.

Alberto Contador (Tinkoff-Saxo) enjoyed an uneventful day to retain the overall leader's pink jersey.

Lifestyle advice for football managers

AJPS: Leave that driver side window closed as you leave the training ground on transfer deadline day. No good will come of it...

Chris: Don't forget the birthdays of your players. They may be rich playboys but it's an excuse for cake!

Big Brenny: Blame all your failings on someone else. Wenger's done it for nigh on 20 years and he's still got a job, it must work.

Peters starts well against Surrey

BBC London 94.9's Mark Church at Northampton:

Northants 107-2 v Surrey

"Play finally got underway at 14:00 BST after the game's first four sessions were lost to the weather and loan signing Luke Fletcher claimed his first wicket for Surrey when he trapped Kyle Coetzer lbw for three.

"Stephen Peters has looked like he is playing a different game to everyone else and the runs have flowed off his bat. Tom Curran picked up Alex Wakely for eight, but Peters is still there at tea on 64 not out alongside Rob Newton, who is unbeaten on 28."

Compton hits century for Middlesex

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BBC London 94.9's Kevin Hand at the Ageas Bowl:

Hampshire 413, Middlesex 258-6

"Middlesex's defiance and has seen them to the verge of avoiding the follow-on at tea.

"Former England opener Nick Compton has led the way with his first century since returning from Somerset and he remains unbeaten on 111 with his team just six runs short of the follow on target.

"Whether the visitors will look to push on at a greater scoring rate after the interval remains to be seen as only 156 runs have been added in the two sessions so far today."

Sign of the times

BBC

Heard the one about the international rugby player who celebrated a try by whipping a pen out of his sock and signing the ball on the pitch?

Kenyan Collins Injera celebrated his 200th try on the World Rugby Sevens Series tour by doing just that.

Watch here.

Gresley, Mickleover, Benfica...

AFP

Burton Albion have announced their pre-season fixture schedule and the League Two champions will host Portuguese giants Benfica in a friendly on 21 July.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's side will prepare for the visit of a club that played in this season's Champions League with trips to non-league sides Gresley Rovers and Mickleover Sports.

Benfica clinched their 34th domestic league title last weekend.

Lifestyle advice for football managers

JasonW: Don't forget to look both ways before crossing the road to get to your Ferrari...

RelocatedWolf: Buy a tin hat and invest in anything that may thicken your skin.

Hard luck lads

Zidane jnr's heroics haven't pleased everyone though...

Twitter

Zidane saves three penalties

Luca Zidane, son of Zinedine, saved three penalties and missed one of his own - a Panenka, no less - as France squeezed past Belgium in a shootout at the European Under-17 Championships.

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The sides drew 1-1 in Bulgaria but the French prevailed to set up a final meeting with either Germany or Russia.

England, meanwhile, beat Spain on penalties to win a play-off and qualify for the FIFA World Cup in Chile later this year.

Kent lower order resists

BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Bob Hunt at Bristol:

Gloucestershire 193, Kent 183-7

"Gloucestershire have let Kent off the hook in the afternoon session.

"They picked up two wickets in the first two overs, and when Billings was caught behind Kent were 98 for 7.

"But Coles and Hagett have put together 85 for the eighth wicket, and are now well within sight of the home side's 193."

Lifestyle advice for football managers

Ed Hewings: Don't go anywhere near Newcastle United. Ever

Milner offered deal

Manchester City have made an improved offer to James Milner as speculation persists over the England midfielder's future.

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Milner is out of contract in the summer and has held off signing a new deal that was offered last year.

But with Arsenal and Liverpool linked with the player, Press Association Sport is reporting that City have offered Milner a fresh deal worth £165,000 a week over four years - making him one of the club's top earners.

Milner now has to decide whether or not to accept the new offer.

Somerset recover to build lead

BBC Radio Nottingham's Dave Bracegirdle:

Somerset 312 & 134-8, Nottinghamshire 226

"Somerset recovered from losing half their side for 45 to build an overall lead of 220 on the third day of their Championship game at Trent Bridge.

"Marcus Trescothick was bowled in the first over of the innings by Vernon Philander, completing a pair in the match for only the second time in his career.

Philander also removed Johannes Myburgh in the early exchanges and Luke Wood also picked up two wickets.

"When a heavy shower brought an early conclusion to the afternoon session, Lewis Gregory was unbeaten on 26, with Craig Overton yet to get off the mark."

Lifestyle advice for football managers

What advice would you give to football managers to help them cope with the strains and stresses of the job...

Angus Saul: All managers should attend a series of yoga sessions led by Nigel Pearson. He's pretty flexible, I hear.

Andrew Harvey: Don't conduct transfer business based on what you saw on Football Manager.

Managerial merry-go-round

There have been 56 managerial casualties in England so far this season. Can you find your club among this lot?

'Cech considers Man Utd move'

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Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech is ready to consider a move to Manchester United as David de Gea's replacement, reports the Daily Telegraph.

The report says Cech has emerged as a candidate to replace De Gea with Chelsea informing the Czech Republic goalkeeper that they will not stand in his way if he wishes to leave Stamford Bridge after losing his starting position to Thibaut Courtois this season.

Lifestyle advice for football managers

So, about that new debate we promised you...

Every manager in the Premier and Football League has been sent a 120-page survival guide by the League Manager's Association offering tips from experts about how to cope with the strains and stresses of the job.

The advice offered? Take a "20-minute nap" during the day, eat "more broccoli, cauliflower and soybeans" and "drink alcohol only in moderation".

All very worthy, but what alternative lifestyle advice would you offer football managers?

Let us know via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

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Rain forces early tea at Cardiff

BBC Radio Wales Sport's Nick Webb at Cardiff:

Glamorgan 314, Essex 50-0

"Essex openers Nick Browne and Jaik Mickleburgh started well against Glamorgan before rain brought an early tea in Cardiff.

"Craig Meschede's hard-hit 68 was the home highlight of the morning session, while David Masters and Graham Napier claimed three wickets each for the visitors.

"Play is due to resume around now after a second interruption from the showers."

MBE for Linvoy

@linvoyprimuspro

Former Portsmouth defender Linvoy Primus is pictured with the MBE after a ceremony at Windsor Castle. The 41-year-old, whose playing career also included stints at Charlton, Barnet and Reading, received the award for setting up the charity Faith and Football, which he started 12 years ago.

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Robson extends stay

Barry Robson has signed a one-year contract extension that will see him remain at Aberdeen until the end of next season.

The 36-year-old-former Celtic, Dundee United, Middlesbrough and Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder, who signed from Sheffield United two years ago, declared himself delighted to extend his time as a Don.

Norwich issue Wembley ticket warning

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Meanwhile, Norwich City urge fans not to publish photographs of their Championship play-off final tickets on social media as "the bar codes could be copied and used".

The Canaries have been allocated a total of 38,888 tickets at Wembley for Monday's game with Middlesbrough.

Wembley apology after spelling error

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Wembley Stadium has apologised after spelling Middlesbrough wrong on tickets for next Monday's play-off final against Norwich City.

A statement on Boro's website reads: "Wembley Stadium would like to apologise to Middlesbrough Football Club and its fans for this mistake, it was a human error. These tickets will still be valid for Monday's game."

Middlesbrough sold 17,000 tickets in four hours on Monday morning.

Familiar feel to McIlroy's group

Talking golf, the tee-times for the fist round of the PGA Championship at Wentworth have been announced.

World number one Rory McIlroy goes out at 13:00 BST in a group containing two Ryder Cup colleagues, Germany's Martin Kaymer and Wales' Jamie Donaldson.

England's Justin Rose begins his challenge for the title at 08:35 alongside Graeme McDowell and Danny Willett.

Reed opts out of European events

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World number 15 Patrick Reed has pulled out of the PGA Championship and next week's Irish Open.

The 24-year-old United States player was due to compete at Wentworth from Thursday before moving on to the event at Royal County Down, Newcastle. But he has opted to play in this week's Crowne Plaza Invitational in Texas.

"We will not be able to travel overseas at this time. My sincere apologies go to the organisers of both events, and to the fans," said Reed.

Strangest red cards

Thanks for all your strangest red card suggestions. Here's the final few. Next we're moving on to a new debate...

Life Like Sport: Ray Wilkins' hissy and red card Mexico '86 for hitting the ref with the ball. Clearly unintentional, otherwise he'd' have missed.

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Andrew Dennett: Ashley Barnes got sent off playing for Brighton for tripping the referee and then got an eight-match ban.

Samuel Chesson: Dnipro's Samuel Inkoom getting a second yellow after taking his shirt off as he was being subbed, ridiculous.

Strangest red cards

We're hunting for the oddest dismissals in football, whether it's Premier League or Sunday League. Send them to #bbcsportsday

Hakan Unsal, June 2002: While the former Galatasaray and Blackburn full-back is not a household name, his claim to fame is being the fall guy in one of the most famous World Cup incidents of all time.

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Unsal's crime was to kick the ball at Brazilian midfielder Rivaldo during a group-stage match as he suspected him of time-wasting at a corner.

The former Ballon d'Or winner was hit in the thigh but dropped to the ground clutching his face and writhing in agony. The play-acting worked and Unsal was swiftly sent off, leaving Turkey a man light before they went down 2-1.

Gillespie talks

Yorkshire coach - and England target - Jason Gillespie has been speaking exclusively to BBC Sport about about his future plans.

BBC Sport

Here what the man has to say right here.

Sky Blues let eight leave

Coventry City have released eight players after agreeing a new contract with manager Tony Mowbray.

Frank Nouble, Shaun Miller, Simeon Jackson, Blair Turgott, Al Bangura, Adam Barton, Andy Webster and Danny Pugh have all left the club.

The Sky Blues finished 17th in League One, five points cleat of the relegation zone.

'He should stay at Anfield for two years'

BBC Radio 5 live

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It could get slightly awkward at Liverpool's end of season awards night later should Raheem Sterling pick up an accolade.

"Does anyone believe that if he goes to Manchester City he will be the first name on the team sheet or are Manchester City just signing him because they need English players?" former Reds winger John Barnes says on BBC Radio 5 live.

"He should stay at Liverpool for a couple of years and then go, but that's from a football point of view."

The nine phases of Phil Jones' head tackle

This piece, breaking down the nine phases of Phil Jones' remarkable head tackle for Manchester United against Arsenal on Sunday, is just beautiful.

Strangest red cards

We're asking for your nominations for the oddest dismissals in football, whether it's Premier League or Sunday League. Send them to #bbcsportsday

Josip Simunic, June 2006: The Croatian defender knew he was on thin ice when he picked up a first yellow in the 61st minute of a World Cup clash with Australia.

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He was relieved, therefore, when referee Graham Poll neglected to show him the red card after issuing him with a second yellow for a foul on 90 minutes.

Simunic finally saw red when angrily approaching Poll after the full-time whistle, his push prompting a rarely-sighted third yellow card.

The English official and his assistants were sent home from the tournament in Germany before the knockout stages began.

Lapthorne to miss World Team Cup

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US Open quad singles champion Andy Lapthorne will miss the chance to lead GB's quad title defence at next week's World Team Cup in Turkey through injury.

The GB quad team won gold in the event last year but in Lapthorne's absence, world number five Jamie Burdekin will head their hopes.

Britain's leading men's and women's players Gordon Reid and Jordanne Whiley will also be in action in their respective events while the junior team includes 17-year-old Josh Cooper, whose potential was identified during the Tennis Foundation's Ticket2Tokyo talent initiative in 2014.

Title controversy and chaos in Iran

AFP

Manager Toni Oliveira thought his side had won the league

Title celebrations cut short, brawls in the stands and a call for calm from government - Iran's Gulf Pro League had a thrilling final day.

Strangest red cards

Adam Salter: Van Persie playing for Arsenal at the Nou Camp 2011. Second yellow for taking a shot one millisecond after the ref had blown for offside.

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The Tea In Team: Marco Boogers. Joins West Ham my fantasy football team (as my cheap wild card). Comes on as sub, karate kicks Gary Neville, never seen again.

Chris McDonald: Kirk Hunter, Crusaders v Cliftonville, 1998, at Seaview. Walks on as sub, head-butts Damien Davey, walks off. Classic Kirk.

Inzaghi on brink at Milan

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Pippo Inzaghi's tenure as AC Milan coach appears to be nearing an end after club owner Silvio Berlusconi effectively confirmed that the former Italy striker will be sacked at the end of the season.

Milan are 11th in Serie A with two games of the campaign remaining.

"Inzaghi has a good relationship with the squad but on many occasions we have had different visions," Berlusconi said. "That is something we will express at an appropriate time. We are deciding what to do."

Reaction as QPR appoint Ramsey

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Former QPR winger Trevor Sinclair seems impressed by his old club appointing Chris Ramsey as permanent head coach.

Middlesex snap up Kiwi

New Zealand left-arm paceman Mitchell McClenaghan will join Middlesex for the second half of their T20 Blast campaign.

McClenaghan, currently representing Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League, will link up with the county at the end of next month and could make his debut against Sussex at Lord's on 2 July.

Wigan's Taylor to move to Hull FC

SWpix.com

Super League side Hull FC have agreed to sign Wigan prop Scott Taylor on a four-year contract.

The 24-year-old, who is on a season-long loan at Salford, started his career at Hull KR and joined Wigan for a "substantial fee" for 2013.

"I'm really happy that the deal is finally done," said the Hull-born England international.

The Black and Whites have also announced Tonga prop Mickey Paea, 29, will move back to the NRL in 2016.

Man City move 'a blessing' for Harding

Natasha Harding says signing for Manchester City Women was a "blessing in disguise" after a proposed move to the United States fell through.

The 26-year-old midfielder's transfer to Washington Spirit broke down in March after she was denied a visa and she signed for City days later.

"I'm a believer that when one door closes, another one opens," Wales international Harding told BBC Sport. "You should make the best of any opportunity. This looks a great one so far. I think it's a blessing in disguise."

'I had a complete meltdown'

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"I pressed send and had a complete meltdown. The tears flowed as the phone lit up with overwhelming messages from friends and fans. There was no turning back now. All the emotion that I'd bottled up came out. I was a wreck - and glad I'd parked in a remote spot."

Think footballers don't care? Read this emotional column by Burnley's Steven Reid, who announced his retirement on Monday in a supermarket car park.

Play set to start at Northampton

After earlier pessimism from Northants about the prospects of any play on day two of their game against Surrey, it now appears that conditions have taken a turn for the better.

Surrey have won the toss and elected to field first, with play set to begin at 14:00 BST if the skies remain clear. On-loan seamer Luke Fletcher will make his debut for the visitors.

Rain frustrates Lancashire

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Lancashire 368, Leicestershire 245-9

Only nine overs of play were possible before lunch at Grace Road because of rain interruptions, with Leicestershire adding 45 runs to their total for the loss of Tom Wells.

He was lbw to pace bowler Kyle Jarvis, the Zimbabwean's third victim of the innings and 26th overall this season.

Leicestershire captain Mark Cosgrove was 77 not out at the interval, with fellow Australian Clint McKay on 23.

Since lunch Lancashire have claimed two quick wickets.

Collingwood fights for Durham

BBC Coventry & Warwickshire's Clive Eakin at Edgbaston:

Warwickshire 450, Durham 182-8

"Having evaded the showers after a slightly delayed start Warwickshire have made good use of their time at Edgbaston reducing Durham to 182-8, still 219 short of the total they need to avoid the follow-on.

"Keith Barker has followed his century by taking four wickets including three in the space of six balls.

"Durham captain Paul Collingwood has done his best to hold things together playing in positive mood to reach 66 not out."

Ward-Prowse talks up England

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Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse believes England Under-21s have a good chance of winning this summer's European Championship.

Manager Gareth Southgate names his provisional squad for the upcoming tournament in the Czech Republic on Wednesday.

"I think Southgate has built a group that is built on team spirit and good camaraderie," said Ward-Prowse. "There's no excuses for not doing well at the tournament. It is up to us to go and perform under pressure on the big stage."

Meschede fifty boosts Glamorgan

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BBC Essex's Nick Gledhill at Cardiff:

Glamorgan 314, Essex 3-0

"Craig Meschede's dynamic 68 from 52 balls boosted Glamorgan to a competitive total after the early loss of Jacques Rudolph for 82.

"The South African born all rounder struck seven fours and four sixes, three of those in one Adeel Malik over when James Foster delayed taking the new ball.

"He added 92 for the 7th wicket with Graham Wagg before Essex fought back as David Masters and Graham Napier finished with three wickets each."

Strangest red cards

Chris Sloley: For the sheer velocity of it Steven Gerrard's 36-second cameo against Man Utd was a pretty strange red card.

Jon Ferguson: Not a sending off as such, but Arsene Wenger being sent to the stands at Old Trafford must be up there.

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Chris Thomas: Favourite sending off has to be Walter Boyd. Red card in 0 seconds.

After the ref had awarded a free kick, striker Walter Boyd came on as a substitute with seven minutes remaining of Swansea's game with Darlington. But before the referee even blew his whistle to signal the free kick could be taken, Boyd elbowed a defender in the face and was promptly sent off. Presumably he didn't bother having a shower.

Compton keeps Hampshire at bay

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BBC London 94.9's Kevin Hand at the Ageas Bowl:

Hampshire 413, Middlesex 178-5

"Hampshire's bowlers have got on top of Middlesex this morning with only 76 runs added for the loss of two wickets in the session.

"Former England opener Nick Compton has kept the hosts at bay with an unbeaten 68 but the visitors are still 84 runs short of the follow on target.

"The pitch is a little two paced to add to the run scoring difficulties and Middlesex must be careful not to expose the tail too quickly after lunch."

One point will be good for my heart - Advocaat

"We will fight from the beginning to the end. Getting a point on Wednesday will be better for my heart as well," says manager Dick Advocaat.

The Black Cats need one point from two games to secure safety.

Advocaat says midfielder Jack Rodwell is back in the squad, while defender Billy Jones is also set to feature after coming off injured in the goalless draw with Leicester last Saturday.

Gloucestershire mount Bristol fightback

BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Bob Hunt at Bristol:

Gloucestershire 193, Kent 71-4

"It has been Gloucestershire's morning on day two as the Kent top order fell to consistently accurate bowling from the home side.

"Liam Norwell continued his prolific start to the season by dismissing Brendan Nash and Daniel Bell-Drummond.

"David Payne had Joe Denly caught behind and the medium pace of Kieran Noema-Barnett saw Fabian Cowdrey fall lbw for six."

Listen to commentary here

Everybody expects us to lose - Advocaat

@sunderlandafc

Sunderland manager Dick Advocaat says his team's battle to avoid relegation has been made easier because people expect them to fail.

The Black Cats need one point to confirm Premier League safety from two matches at Arsenal on Wednesday and champions Chelsea on Sunday.

"I'm very excited but the sooner we get the point the better," says Advocaat. "Everybody is expecting us to lose and that makes it easier for us."

Trescothick's match to forget

BBC Radio Nottingham's Dave Bracegirdle at Trent Bridge:

Somerset 312 & 36-4, Nottinghamshire 226

"Somerset's Marcus Trescothick was dismissed for his second duck of the game on the third morning of the Championship match against Notts.

"At lunch, the visitors were 122 ahead, but with four wickets gone, after dismissing Notts for 226.

"Somerset lost Trescothick in the first over and Johannes Myburgh in the third, both to South Africa's Vernon Philander.

"And after a brief stoppage for rain, 19-year-old left-armer Luke Wood won lbw decisions against Tom Abell and Tom Cooper."

Listen to commentary here

'My most important game'

Jonas Gutierrez is determined not to end his seven-year Newcastle career with a second relegation.

Only victory over West Ham on Sunday will guarantee the Magpies top-flight status.

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The 31-year-old Argentine, whose contract expires at the end of a difficult campaign, told The Journal: "It's the most important game I have had to play in seven years.

"The good thing is that we play at home and it's in our hands. A few players here know what it's like to go down, and it's not nice for the city, the players and the club. We need move forward to the next game and do it for the fans and the city."

Stadium of rock

Sunderland manager Dick Advocaat is about to address the media ahead of his team's visit to Arsenal on Wednesday.

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In the meantime there is a big story on the Sunderland website as a crowd of around 50,000 is expected at the Stadium of Light next Monday to welcome US band the Foo Fighters.

Magennis charged for team-mate headbutt

SNS

Kilmarnock forward Josh Magennis is facing a two-game suspension after being charged by the Scottish FA with head-butting team-mate Jamie Hamill.

The colleagues clashed during the 4-1 win over Partick Thistle on Saturday, with the Northern Irishman appearing to strike the midfielder after conceding a free kick.

Magennis has until 15:00 BST on Wednesday to either accept the two-match ban offered or appeal the decision.

Fourth crash at Indy 500

Canadian driver James Hinchcliffe has been taken to hospital for surgery after his car smashed into a wall and briefly set on fire in the fourth dramatic crash in under a week at the Indianapolis 500.

AP

IndyCar said the 28-year-old was "alert" after the crash, which happened just after he had completed a lap at 221.3mph.

The incident was reported to be the result of a mechanical failure, with Hinchcliffe - who is in intensive care - going straight into a wall.

What a difference a year makes...

A year ago Rory McIlroy appeared a shattered man in the wake of his split from Caroline Wozniacki.

He had ended one of sport's highest-profile romances just as the wedding invitations were being sent out.

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But what has followed since has been a scintillating 12 months. McIlroy has won seven of the 24 tournaments he has played over the past year. Two were majors - the Open and US PGA - and two were World Golf Championships. His average finishing position in that period is 13th.

"It's rather appropriate that in this period he has become such friends with someone from a band called One Direction. It neatly sums up McIlroy's relentless upward trend," writes BBC golf correspondent Iain Carter.

The full article is here.

Crawley appoint Yates

Former Birmingham City midfielder and ex-Cheltenham Town boss Mark Yates has been appointed manager of Crawley Town, who will play in League Two next season after relegation.

"My job is to put a competitive squad together that will challenge at the right end of the table," 45-year-old Yates told the club website.

Man Utd and FA argue over Shaw

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The Guardian are reporting that Manchester United and the Football Association are in dispute over whether Luke Shaw should play for England in the European Under-21 Championships.

'No respect'

Justin Gatlin says he has been "kicked out" of the Beijing World Challenge by meeting organisers.

The 33-year-old, who has served two doping bans, was due to race in China on Wednesday after running his fastest ever 100m time of 9.74 seconds in Doha.

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Gatlin was unsure about his fitness following a flight to Beijing but appeared ready to compete after coming through a training session on Monday.

"They didn't have any respect for me so they said 'you better leave'," he said.

Strangest red cards

But now let's return to our original debate, for you've been responding in your droves. Weirdest red cards of all time - keep 'em coming:

Greg Griffiths: Tony Bullock, Southend v Macclesfield, booked for time wasting, booked again for applauding referee, booted ball into stands.

A Chesshire: Sully Muntari at inter. Comes on as sub, then gets sent off for two bookings and concedes a penalty inside 90 seconds.

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Malanda19: Stupidest red card? Steven Taylor hand balling v Aston Villa, then rolling around like he'd been shot through the chest.

Ashley Clarke: Our gaffer took a wee behind the dugout even though it was basically a field and got sent off.

Is Ramsey the right man for QPR?

Rowan Zeelie: Hammers fan but happy to see Ramsey given the chance. Clearly has passion and knowledge. Hope he succeeds at QPR.

Daniel Kelly: Don't expect a straight return under Chris Ramsey. I can see him rebuilding QPR before he thinks about promotion.

Ramsey 'ideal' for QPR - Ferdinand

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QPR director of football, Les Ferdinand says Chris Ramsey is the ideal candidate to take the club forward following their Premier League demise.

"Rebuilding the club is our first target," Ferdinand tells the club's website.

"If we can make an immediate return to the Premier League, then great, but we have to focus on re-establishing the traditions of QPR. That will take time, but in Chris we have a man who is relishing the challenge that lies ahead."

Is Ramsey the right man for QPR?

Daniel Kelly: I am happy to see Chris Ramsey has been given the job. He respects the club, as we have seen in recent times, others don't.

Rizpey: Its a tough one most games we have lost have been by one goal or late on. Experience would be nice but I would give him a chance.

Ramsey excited about QPR challenge

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Chris Ramsey says he is relishing the challenge of rebuilding relegated QPR in the Championship after being appointed head coach on a permanent basis until 2018.

"I am fully aware of what this club means to its supporters and I intend to do everything possible to help build a QPR team they can be proud of," Ramsey tells the club's website.

"I enjoyed my time in temporary charge, despite the way the season panned out, and now I'm looking forward to the challenge of helping rebuild this club over the coming years."

Is Ramsey the right man for QPR?

QPR are, predictably, saying that Chris Ramsey will "flourish" as head coach.

Do you agree? If not, why?

Let us know via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

Ramsey's QPR record

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It is fair to say that Chris Ramsey's record since taking over as QPR manager hasn't been particularly sparkling.

Appointed in February, on a temporary basis until the end of the season, Ramsey has since overseen 12 matches.

Rangers have won two, drawn two and lost eight - scoring 15 and conceding 25 goals (though six of those came in one match, away at Manchester City) - on their way to relegation from the Premier League.

Ramsey right man to lead QPR - Fernandes

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Chris Ramsey is the right man to lead QPR into the future, according to chairman Tony Fernandes. Ramsey has been appointed head coach of the relegated club on a permanent basis until 2018.

"He lives and breathes management and coaching, and I am sure he will flourish in this role," Fernandes tells QPR's website.

"When Chris took over we were already in a very difficult position, yet despite our relegation, we have been impressed with the professionalism and attention to detail he has demonstrated."

Xavi to leave Barcelona

Barcelona's captain Xavi Hernandez will leave the club he has served since boyhood for Qatari side Al Sadd at the end of this season, his father has announced.

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The 35-year-old midfielder is a stalwart of the Catalan side over recent years and one of the heroes of Spain's Euro and World Cup-winning squads.

His father Joaquin Hernandez told the Cope radio station Xavi had decided "the moment has come to say goodbye".

"He is lucky to have received a really impressive offer from Al Sadd where he can continue playing football, train as a future coach and also rest a little," he added.

BreakingQPR appoint Ramsey

Queens Park Rangers announce Chris Ramsey is appointed head coach on permanent basis until 2018.

Gillespie 'flattered' by England interest

Gillespie on the pull of being Yorkshire coach: "I love my job here. It's an exciting time at my club.

"It would certainly take some persuading [to leave]. I wake up every morning and I'm in my dream job. It's just fantastic, but I don't know what the future holds."

Gillespie 'flattered' by England interest

Gillespie on what happens now: "The Yorky boys have been giving me enough grief about it, which has been quite funny.

"But, look, I haven't had any contact and until that happens I can't say anything. We'll just have to wait and see. He [Strauss] mentioned my name publicly, so I may get a call. We'll just have to see what happens."

Headlines at noon

Here's what has been going on so far in the sporting world today:

Football: Raheem Sterling has "not achieved anything" and should stay at Liverpool, says former Reds winger John Barnes.

Athletics: Jessica Ennis-Hill says she is fit to compete in her first heptathlon since becoming Olympic champion in 2012.

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Rugby League: Super League's bottom side Wakefield Trinity Wildcats have parted company with coach James Webster.

Cricket: Batsman Joe Root has credited sacked coach Peter Moores with the form that resulted in him being named England's player of the year.

BreakingGillespie 'flattered' by England interest

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Former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie tells BBC Sport it is "very humbling and "very flattering" to be linked with the job of England cricket coach but says he would take some persuading to leave his "dream job" at Yorkshire.

Last week, new ECB director of cricket Andrew Strauss named Yorkshire coach Jason Gillespie as a potential England coach following the sacking of Peter Moores.

'Truly thankful'

A little more on the news that Super League's bottom side Wakefield Trinity Wildcats have parted company with coach James Webster.

Chairman Michael Carter said: "It is with a heavy heart that I have today agreed the release of James Webster from his position of head coach.

"James rescued us last season from the threat of relegation and for that I am truly thankful. I wish James and his family every success and happiness in the future, and thank him for all his hard work in his four years here.

"We will now be conducting the search for a new head coach. In the interim, Stuart Dickens will take charge of first team affairs, until we can make an appointment."

Palace party

How will this go down with Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers?

Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling spent Saturday night partying in Manchester with Crystal Palace players - hours after the Reds were beaten 3-1 by Palace at Anfield - reports the Liverpool Echo.

The report adds: "If Sterling is serious about the Reds not doing enough to protect him from adverse headlines, perhaps he should also take a look at some of his own decisions."

Stringer leaves Bath for Sale

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Sale Sharks have signed Irish scrum-half Peter Stringer on a one-year-deal.

The 37-year-old has played for Munster, Saracens and Newcastle as well as earning 98 Ireland caps and could yet win the Premiership title this term, with Bath facing Leicester in the semi-finals on Saturday.

Sale Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond said: "Once I heard that Peter was looking for a new club I made my move and I am delighted he has decided to join us."

Moyes' Toffee raid?

Daily Express: Real Sociedad manager David Moyes is keen to sign Costa Rica left-back Bryan Oviedo, 25, from his former club Everton.

Ward wins see-saw match

James Ward has advanced into the second round of qualifying for the French Open, after the very definition of a topsy-turvy encounter against Irishman James McGee.

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Ward waltzed through the opening set 6-1, lost the second set by the same scoreline, then won the decider 6-0.

Odd. But Ward is through and that's all he'll care about.

There are three rounds of qualifying and ultimately 16 spots available in the main draw.

Jol for Brentford?

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The Sun are reporting that former Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham manager Martin Jol is wanted by Brentford to replace Mark Warburton, who is leaving after guiding the club to the Championship play-offs.

That's contrary to what Sportsday has heard, though...

On this day

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In 1965, West Ham beat 1860 Munich at Wembley to win the European Cup Winners' Cup.

Anyone have any idea what the massive mallet was for?

Webster leaves Wakefield

SWPIX.COM

Super League's bottom side Wakefield Trinity Wildcats have parted company with coach James Webster.

The Wildcats were beaten by Championship side Leigh in the last 16 of the Challenge Cup on Sunday, after which Webster suggested there would be "a lot of changes".

Strangest red cards

Tom Sefton: Dennis Irwin's red at Anfield, when the ref deemed he ran the ball out of play but he continued as he didn't hear the whistle.

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Raymond Kelly: That would have to be Johnnie Doyle for Celtic - sent off for hitting the ref with a cross.

Finn The Human: I was sent off during a five-a-side game for an 'over-enthusiastic celebration'. Apparently three laps of the pitch is too many.

Andrew Neill: I once got sent off at school for swearing. I'd actually been complementing the striker standing by the ref by saying 'shot'.

'Allardyce set to leave West Ham'

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West Ham United are set to announce manager Sam Allardyce's exit on Monday, reports the Daily Telegraph.

Club owners David Sullivan and David Gold, together with vice-chairman Karren Brady, are scheduled to meet 60-year-old Allardyce less than 24 hours after the last game of the season against Newcastle.

Allardyce, who has been in charge since June 2011, is out of contract this summer.

The Hammers are 11th in the Premier League table but have won just two of the last 15 top flight games.

Blackpool release 17 after relegation

Empics

Blackpool have just 10 contracted players at the club after announcing 17 of the squad will be released following their relegation from the Championship.

It leaves the Seasiders in a similar position to last summer, when they had just eight contracted players on the eve of the 2014-15 season.

Managerless Blackpool have taken one-year options on Jose Miguel Cubero, Andrea Orlandi and Nile Ranger - a player who has reportedly not been at the club since December.

Midfielder Jamie O'Hara has been offered a new deal but a host of first-teamers - including Tony McMahon, Peter Clarke and David Perkins - have been allowed to leave Bloomfield Road.

County Championship preview

Three Division Two matches are only at the second day - the first day of Northants v Surrey was abandoned yesterday without a ball being bowled because of rain.

Elsewhere, Glamorgan will resume on the second morning against Essex on 187-5 with Jacques Rudolph 81 not out, while Kent will start their reply against Gloucestershire after bowling the hosts out for 193.

Listen to live ball-by-ball commentary from BBC local radio from 11:00 BST.

Wolves legend's ball sells for £1,300

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An historic match ball from the game where Wolverhampton Wanderers legend Billy Wright became the first international footballer to earn 100 caps has fetched more than £1,000 at auction, reports the Express & Star. The leather football, which sold for £1,350, was used during England's 1-0 win over Scotland in 1959.

Leeds replaces London on 2016 World Series

Leeds will host a stage of the 2016 World Triathlon Series.

Olympic champion Alistair Brownlee and his younger brother, current world number four Jonathan, are both from the city.

"It's fantastic that news Leeds' bid has been successful," said Alistair. "I am sure the crowds will come out in force to see a major triathlon event in Leeds for the first time, and I'm sure it will be a brilliant event."

Strangest red cards

Luke: Pepe Reina putting his hand on Robben's shoulder, obviously resulting in what looked like a fractured collar bone...

Dan the Soldier: Rooney v Fulham in March 2009, When he threw a ball back too aggressively to allow a free kick to be taken.

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Dan McPartlan: Mulumbu picking the ball up mid-game and booting it at Gary O'Neill is up there with the greatest red cards ever.

Matt Barron: I got sent off this season for ducking a punch.

Can you not appeal that one, Matt?

Strangest red cards

We're asking for your nominations for the oddest dismissals in football, whether it's Premier League or Sunday League. Send them to #bbcsportsday

Meanwhile, here are a few odd ones we remember...

Zinedine Zidane, July 2006: After an illustrious playing career, French playmaker Zidane was preparing to step away from football - but not before trying to taste more World Cup glory.

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Les Bleus were looking good for an extra-time winner when Zidane took exception to some words uttered by Italy's Marco Materazzi, who quickly found himself on the receiving end of a powerful headbutt to the chest.

Referee Horacio Elizondo had no other option than to dismiss the midfielder, and the lasting image of the final is of Zidane walking past the trophy before reaching the tunnel.

Foy, not Hoy

Chris Hoy

Six-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy has been subject to a torrent of irate Twitter messages intended for the football referee.

Liverpool face 'embarrassment'

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And while we're talking Liverpool, the club's former striker John Aldridge says it will be "embarrassing" if the Reds have to qualify for next season's Europa League in July.

If Aston Villa win the FA Cup and Liverpool finish seventh, the Reds could still enter the Europa League at the first qualifying stage on 2 July via the Fair Play League.

"If we mess up at Stoke and end up dropping to seventh then we could be starting our European campaign at the beginning of July, which would be embarrassing," says Aldridge in his Liverpool Echo column.

Conference keeper given Premier chance

Torquay United goalkeeper Dan Lavercombe is, presumably, currently pinching himself.

The 19-year-old has been handed a week-long trial by Premier League club Liverpool.

Torquay United/Phil Mingo

Lavercombe only signed a professional contract with the Gulls last month and played the last five games of the Conference season. He kept three clean sheets and impressed manager Chris Hargreaves.

"Liverpool have had him watched and like him, and they have asked us if they can have a closer look at him," Hargreaves told the club website.

Wallace released by Burnley

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Burnley announce winger Ross Wallace, 29, has been released following relegation from the Premier League. But the Clarets are in talks with long-serving defender Michael Duff, 37, over a new contract.

Good luck boys

Twitter

And James Ward has, in fact, just won his opening Roland Garros qualifier, beating Ireland's James McGee 6-1 1-6 6-0.

Gunning for Milner

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Manchester City midfielder James Milner, 29, will turn down a new four-year contract worth up to £165,000 a week in order to join Arsenal. Liverpool also want the England international, reports the Daily Star.

Strangest red cards

We're asking for your nominations for the oddest dismissals in football, whether it's Premier League or Sunday League. Send them to #bbcsportsday

Meanwhile, here are a few odd ones we remember...

Eden Hazard, January 2013: During a Premier League meeting with Swansea, the Chelsea forward was frustrated by the actions of local boy Charlie Morgan, who put his whole body on the ball when Hazard tried to retrieve it - something which earning him a kick from the player.

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Referee Chris Foy sent off the Belgian and he later apologised to Morgan, who in turn was not prepared to press charges.

County Championship preview

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Division One leaders Middlesex will require a good batting performance to stay in contention on day three of their match with Hampshire. Middlesex are 102-3 in their first innings, 311 runs behind the home side.

Somerset can expect to gain a sizeable first-innings lead against Nottinghamshire, with Notts 195-8 and still trailing by 117 runs.

A century from Keith Barker (pictured) put Warwickshire in control against Durham, while Lancashire have the edge in their Division Two match with Leicestershire thanks to a hundred from Steven Croft.

Listen to live ball-by-ball commentary from BBC local radio from 11:00 BST.

Bournemouth chairman defends price increase

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Bournemouth chairman Jeff Mostyn has defended the increase in season-ticket prices ahead of the club's first ever season in England's top flight.

The club currently have 7,000 season-ticket holders, with that number being capped for the 2015-16 campaign, and season-ticket prices for 2015-16 range between £550 and £950.

"As a business, it is essential that we provide value for money," said Mostyn. "In this respect, there can be no question that our ticket pricing remains more than competitive in comparison with other Premier League clubs."

Arsene Wenger news coference

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Sunderland's Premier League future remains in doubt, with the Black Cats in danger of going down if they lose their last two games of the season away to Arsenal and Chelsea.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is confident they will survive under Dick Advocaat.

"They always find the resources to get out of relegation. Advocaat has used his experience to give them confidence," says Wenger.

Advocaat will face the media at 13:00 BST and we'll bring you the best of it right here.

Strangest red cards

Christopher Steele: The Dyer/Bowyer fight on the pitch.

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Ryan: Nani against Real Madrid two seasons ago. Even the Real Madrid players were shocked.

Simon Curtis: Nothing beats Kevin Horlock aggressive walking in 1999.

*Horlock was shown a second yellow card during Manchester City's away game at Bournemouth for "walking towards the referee in an aggressive manner while asking a question", though referee Brian Coddingtonlater admitted that the player did not swear.

Arsene Wenger news conference

London Evening Standard chief football correspondent James Olley: Wenger asked which Arsenal players will play for England U21's this summer: "Calum Chambers. I hope that's it." Alex Oxlaide-Chamberlain? Jack Wilshere? "I don't think so, no."

'We have to finish well'

Arsenal will secure a place in next season's Champions League group stages if they defeat Sunderland at the Emirates on Wednesday.

"We have put a massive amount of effort into coming back into the season," says manager Arsene Wenger at his pre-match news conference.

"We have to finish well now. We have a stability at the moment that brings us good cohesion in the team and that is vital in the final part of the season."

Wenger on transfer targets

@arsenal

More from Arsene Wenger who has deflected questions about Arsenal transfer targets this summer.

Asked about bidding for Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling, the Gunners boss says: "I don't like to lie. If I say I will and I don't do it, you will say I lied."

On Chelsea keeper Petr Cech and Manchester City midfielder James Milner, Wenger adds that Arsenal don't need strengthening in the area Milner usually plays.

Koscielny doubtful for Gunners

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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is holding a news conference ahead of Wednesday's home match with Sunderland.

Wenger says defender Laurent Koscielny is doubtful because of flu while midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and forward Danny Welbeck are unavailable because of groin and knee injuries respectively.

Quins' Casson signs for Leeds Carnegie

Yorkshire Carnegie have signed Harlequins centre Tom Casson on a two-year contract.

The 25-year-old, who has made more than 60 appearances for Quins, is the Championship club's seventh new arrival for next season.

"He is very highly regarded by Harlequins, both as a player and a person," said Yorkshire Carnegie rugby director Chris Gibson.

Strangest red cards

We're asking for your nominations for the oddest dismissals in football, whether it's Premier League or Sunday League. Send them to #bbcsportsday

Meanwhile, here are a few odd ones we remember...

Javier Mascherano, June 2013: The feisty Argentinian midfielder was on the ground undergoing medical treatment towards the end of a 1-1 World Cup qualifying draw with Ecuador when he took exception to a jet of water squirted onto him by one of the medics.

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Mascherano kicked out at the offender - and was soon back on his feet and heading down the tunnel thanks to referee Enrique Caceres' intervention.

Happy birthday

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Andrea Pirlo is 36 today. Yet the Juventus and Italy midfielder is still one of the best in the world. And he's a dude.

Born on the same day was former Uruguay and Manchester United striker Diego Forlan, who is now in Japan with Cerezo Osaka.

And other man celebrating is Scotland's four-time IndyCar Series champion Dario Franchitti, who turns 42.

Ennis-Hill makes heptathlon comeback

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Olympic champion Jessica Ennis-Hill has announced she will compete in her first heptathlon since London 2012 in Gotzis at the end of May.

'Time is not right for Sterling to leave'

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Raheem Sterling is making a mistake by asking to leave Liverpool, according to former Reds winger John Barnes.

Sterling is expected to tell Reds manager Brendan Rodgers he wants to leave Anfield this summer and two-time Liverpool title winner Barnes tells BBC Radio 5 live: "He is only 20 and has not achieved anything, he has not won anything.

"The time is not right for him to move, but if he wants to move the club should sell him. If he goes to Manchester City, to give himself a chance of winning the league, he will not become a regular for them. We have seen it with players in the past like Scott Sinclair."

Strangest red cards

We're asking for your nominations for the oddest dismissals in football, whether it's Premier League or Sunday League. Send them to #bbcsportsday

Meanwhile, here are a few odd ones we remember...

Kieran Gibbs, March 2014: When Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain stuck out a hand to stop Eden Hazard's goalbound shot he could have fully expected to see a flash of red from ref Andre Marriner.

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The card was produced, but was shown instead to his bemused team-mate Gibbs, who protested his innocence to the referee before accepting his fate and trudging off the pitch.

Arsenal went on to lose the match 6-0. Marriner later issued an apology to Gibbs.

Queuing up for Queens

Britain's James Ward and Kyle Edmund have been awarded the two remaining wild cards for the upcoming Aegon Championships at the Queen's Club.

World number 106 Ward reached the semi-finals of the pre-Wimbledon tournament in 2011, while Edmund has recently climbed to 121st in the rankings after qualifying for the main draw of the Australian Open.

Ward, 28, and Edmund, 20, join the likes of British number one Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal, Stan Wawrinka and Marin Cilic at the tournament, which takes place between 15-21 June.

No to England

Justin Langer has ruled himself out of the running for the vacant England coaching job after renewing his contract with Western Australia for two more years.

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Langer, who played 105 tests for Australia, said he spoke to England director of cricket Andrew Strauss twice last week about replacing Peter Moores, but decided to stay in Perth for family and other reasons.

The ex-Test opener said: "When I followed my gut and my heart it was an easy decision."

Arrests in Italy

More than 50 people have been arrested in Italy - and more than 70 placed under investigation - as part of a match-fixing inquiry led by anti-Mafia prosecutors in the southern town of Catanzaro.

Police say the sweep allegedly involves "dozens" of fixed matches in Italian football's third and fourth divisions.

Charges include criminal association aimed at sports fraud, with some linked to Mafia organisations. Authorities say one police officer is involved.

The way to land Bale

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Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville says his former club should use 24-year-old goalkeeper David De Gea as leverage to sign Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale, 25, reports the Daily Express.

Big spenders land big star

A bit of news from the hockey world, and it's controversial.

One of Great Britain's biggest hockey stars, Ashley Jackson, has joined big spending Holcombe Hockey Club.

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Jackson will leave East Grinstead, a team who finished first in the England Hockey Premier Division this season and who have finished in the top two in seven of the last eight years.

Holcombe, who have only just won promotion to the Premier Division, have caused controversy by spending large amounts of money to attract GB internationals - including captain Barry Middleton - to play in the second tier of English hockey.

Strangest red cards

Right then, your turn to get involved.

Cesc Fabregas' dismissal for pinging the ball at Chris Brunt's head is probably the most bizarre of the Premier League season but we think you, the Sportsday public, can think of more curious sending offs.

We want you to tell us what is the strangest red card you can remember?

It could be in the professional game but, equally, it might have been brandished in your direction by an overzealous pub league official.

Let us know via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

Number one

Jose Mourinho wasn't exactly a shrinking violet after the West Brom game.

Despite the 3-0 loss he marched over to the travelling fans at the end and pointedly made a 'number one' gesture, to hammer home what Chelsea have achieved this season.

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If you want to watch Jose's post-match interview, head here.

'Harsh and bizarre'

Jose Mourinho because he's Jose Mourinho, did, of course, have something to say about the Fabregas red card.

"Where is the danger of the situation, where is the aggression in the situation to get the red card in a friendly game?" Mourinho said. "I really don't understand.

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"For me, a top referee, a stable, big personality and in control of the game, goes there, two or three words and it's done. It's a bizarre red card.

"A three-game ban for this? Harsh? Of course it's harsh. Why does he have to explain? He doesn't need to explain."

Tony Pulis, meanwhile, said: "I haven't seen the red card and I don't think Jose has seen it either." How wrong he was...

The curse of P

Here's a stat for you.

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All four managers to beat Jose Mourinho this season have surnames beginning with P: Alan Pardew, Mauricio Pochettino, Phil Parkinson and Tony Pulis.

Yes, we realise it's an utterly pointless stat but, hey, it's vaguely interesting. Isn't it?

Not so Fab

Chelsea might have wrapped up the Premier League title but West Brom didn't show them much respect when the teams met at the Hawthorns.

But it will be remembered less for the Baggies 3-0 victory - which came courtesy of two goals from Saido Berahino and Chris Brunt's fine strike - and more for a moment of slightly comic madness by Cesc Fabregas.

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The Spaniard, already wearing his comedy Zorro mask, launched a ball into the back of Brunt's head from 20 yards and was promptly sent off.

Given the title is in the bag, Jose Mourinho could afford not to be too perturbed - though he should be: Fabregas's three-game ban for violent conduct means he will miss the first game of next season.

Thanks Peter

In what is slightly embarrassing for England's new fancily-titled director of cricket Andrew Strauss, batsman Joe Root has paid tribute to sacked coach Peter Moores for "bringing the best out of me".

Root, named England's player of the year, averaged almost 95 in Test cricket under Moores, who was dismissed on 9 May.

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"A lot of credit has to go to Peter," said the 24-year-old. "Over the past year, he has definitely got the best out of me - along with the rest of the coaching department."

Moores, 52, was relieved of his duties following a dismal World Cup and the drawn Test series with West Indies - a decision taken by Strauss.

'Don't be held to ransom'

"Raheem Sterling states his wish is to play his football at the highest level, presumably Champions League.

"Liverpool would be within their rights to point out to Sterling that he had Champions League football at Anfield this season and hardly excelled as they went out at the group stage - and more consistent form on his part may have even resulted in a place in the Premier League's top four and qualification next season."

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That is part of a feature by BBC Sport's chief football writer Phil McNulty, who has taken an in-depth look at the Raheem Sterling situation and concluded that Liverpool should not be held to ransom by the 20-year-old, no matter how talented he is.

Read it here.

Sterling wants out

But without further ado let's take a look at the big news from overnight, the revelation that Raheem Stering does intend to leave Liverpool this summer.

Sterling - who is still only 20 - will meet Reds chief executive Ian Ayre and Rodgers on Friday, when he is set to tell them he wants to go.

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The England forward has already turned down a new £100,000-a-week contract, and denied being a "money-grabber" in a BBC Sport interview last month.

Sterling is under contract until 2017 and Liverpool want to keep him. But should he be made available, Man City are the frontrunners to sign him, though Arsenal and a number of European clubs have also expressed an interest.

Get ready for an interesting summer...

The Brits are coming

Something to keep your eye on today - the first round of men's qualifying for the French Open (which starts Monday) takes place at Roland Garros tomorrow.

There are three rounds of qualifying and 16 spots available in the main draw.

Aljaz Bedene - who gained British citizenship last month - joins Andy Murray in the main draw, but there are four Brits competing in qualifying.

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James Ward (pictured) plays Ireland's James McGee at 09:00 BST on court 16, while Kyle Edmund takes on Austrian Gerald Melzer at 15:00 on court 11.

Over on court 9, world number 176 Liam Broady faces Radu Albot from Moldova, and, finally, Brydan Klein meets France's Mathias Bourgue at 13:00 on court 7.

The women's competition starts on Wednesday.

Tuesday's papers

The Guardian

Three different stories in The Guardian. James Milner remains a target for Liverpool and Arsenal, it says, while there's news of Uefa's plan to relax Financial Fair Play rules, plus Joe Root on Jason Gillespie's chances of becoming England's next cricket coach.

Tuesday's papers

Daily Telegraph

Big picture of the Fabregas 'how dare you whack me in the head with that ball' incident, but the main headline is about the potential return to rugby union of Sir Clive Woodward - in the running to take over as France coach after this year's World Cup.

Tuesday's papers

Independent

Sterling and Fabregas feature, but there's also an interesting tale about Harry Kane in the Independent, with Tottenham worried the young striker may be forced to miss the start of next season because of the European Under-21 finals this summer.

Tuesday's papers

The Mirror

The obligatory Raheem Sterling 'I'm off' story in The Mirror, which also says James Milner will turn down £34m in Man City wages to join Liverpool - plus Jose Mourinho on why he can't stop Petr Cech joining Arsenal.

Tuesday's papers

The Sun

Sterling dominates in The Sun too. He wants to go. But will Liverpool sell? They played hardball over Luis Suarez a couple of years ago when Arsenal were sniffing and forced the Uruguayan to stay. Sterling has two years remaining on his contract, so it will be interesting to see what tactics Brendan Rodgers and co employ this time around.

Tuesday's papers

Daily Express

It's all about Raheem in the Express, who reckon Manchester City will waste no time in putting in a big bid for Liverpool's unsettled forward.

Morning all

It wasn't too long ago that Raheem Sterling wanted the Kop to make up a song about him. Chances are it will be X-rated now, with the 20-year-old set to tell Liverpool he's off when the season ends.

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Meanwhile, over at the Hawthorns, Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas decided to test how good his aim was from 20 yards. Turns out it is pretty good - he hit West Brom's Chris Brunt square in the back of the head. Plenty of argy bargy followed, plus a red card, plus a 3-0 defeat for the champions.

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All that, and plenty more, coming up in today's Sportsday. First, the morning papers...