Wednesday's sports news as it happened

1. Arsenal v Sunderland (19:45 BST)
2. Rosler confirmed as Leeds manager
3. Kane in and Shaw out of England's Euro Under-21 squad
4. Gillespie to hold Strauss talks
5. Hamilton signs new three-year Mercedes deal
6. Get involved #bbcsportsday

So that is that for Sportsday today. But there is live text commentary over on BBC Football as relegation-threatened Sunderland look to take away at least a point from Arsenal which would guarantee their Premier League safety.

Rangers and Hibs meet in play-offs

There's a hugely important match in Scotland this evening, with Rangers welcoming Hibs to Ibrox for the first leg of the Scottish Premiership play-off semi-final.

The winners of the two-legged tie between the teams who finished second and third in the Scottish Championship will then face Motherwell - who are 11th in the top flight - over two legs to determine which of the three will play in the Premiership next season.

'We're better now'

Captain Brendon McCullum says New Zealand were once "overpaid prima donnas" - but feels England should fear the much-changed side they face when the two-Test series begins on Thursday.

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New Zealand lost 2-0 on their last tour of England in 2013, when they were ranked eighth in the Test standings.

But the Black Caps have won four of their past six series to rise to third, two places ahead of England.

"We're a better team than 2013," said McCullum. "We've grown up a lot."

Comeback man Crolla

Good news for Anthony Crolla fans - he is back in training.

Crolla suffered a fractured skull and broken ankle when he was struck by a concrete slab after chasing burglars he had spotted leaving a neighbours' home.

His trainer Joe Gallagher posted on Twitter: "Great to see @ant_crolla back in action sparring today. Good eight rounds done with Scott Quigg."

Twitter

Crolla, 28, will fight for the WBA world lightweight title against Colombian Darleys Perez in Manchester on 18 July.

KP talks

Kevin Pietersen has - as you'd possibly expect him to - passed comment on Paul Farbrace's announcement that the England job would be too good to turn down.

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"He might be the only one who will want a team that's not allowed to be at full strength," Pietersen wrote on BreatheSport.

Farbrace is in temporary charge of England, and will oversee the two-Test series against New Zealand.

Big offer to De Gea

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Manchester United will offer goalkeeper David De Gea a new contract worth up to £250,000 a week to convince the 24-year-old to commit to the club amid interest from Real Madrid, according to The Sun.

Cech to replace De Gea?

Daily Telegraph: Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech, 32, has emerged as a possible replacement for De Gea should the Spaniard leave Manchester United.

Mourinho ponders Falcao move

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Daily Mail: Premier League champions Chelsea are considering taking Radamel Falcao, 29, on a season-long loan in 2015-16. The striker is currently on a season-long loan at Manchester United from Monaco but has only scored four times.

'Three more years'

Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton on Instagram on his new deal with Mercedes: "Just signed my new deal, 3 more years. A huge thank you to Mercedes for their support over these last 17 years. This will take us to 20 years together. I am so grateful for their belief in me. To this team, I am incredibly proud to drive for you all and I hope this shows you that the commitment is reciprocated. I will not give up on you. We have a long way to go, let's keep killin it. Thank you for all you do and for helping me be the best I can be. Now let's race!!! #MonacoGP"

Chelsea to lose two and gain Sterling?

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Chelsea are prepared to sell winger Juan Cuadrado, 26, and attacking midfielder Oscar, 23, to raise funds for a rival bid for Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling, reports the Daily Star.

'PSG cannot afford Pogba'

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Manchester Evening News: Paul Pogba's former agent has claimed that Paris St Germain cannot afford the expected £44m asking price for the French international. And that could leave the competition for the Juventus star's signature this summer as a two-way tussle between Manchester City and Real Madrid.

Stalemate at Ageas Bowl

BBC Radio Solent's Kevan James at Southampton:

Hampshire 413 & 185-5 dec, Middlesex 362

"Hampshire comfortably saw out the fourth day as the Middlesex pace trio of Steven Finn, Toby Roland-Jones and James Harris failed to get any life out of a pitch grew increasingly slow.

"Middlesex's last-wicket partnership of 75 between Roland-Jones and Finn the day before did not help the game. It got them too close to the home side's first innings total, so Hampshire could not push on with the bat second time around, and have enough overs left to have a second go with the ball."

Lancashire secure victory

Lancashire 368 & 203-5 dec beat Leicestershire 249 & 78 by 244 runs

Lancashire extended their lead at the top of Division Two after a comprehensive victory over Leicestershire at Grace Road.

Chasing 323 from 59 overs, the home side were bowled out for 78 thanks largely to Tom Bailey's maiden five-wicket haul.

The win was Lancashire's seventh in their last 10 Championship games against Leicestershire, who are still searching for their first Championship victory since 2012.

St James' sit-in

Newcastle United fans are planning to occupy St James' Park after the game against West Ham as protest against owner Mike Ashley.

The Magpies could be relegated from the top flight depending on results and a section of supporters plan a sit-in to get owner Mike Ashley to sell the club.

PA

The AshleyOut.com group said they "will continue to occupy the ground" after the final whistle whatever the result.

They want other fans to join them in a protest cleared by Northumbria Police.

Reid wins in Turkey

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England's Melissa Reid led from start to finish to secure her fifth Ladies European Tour title at the Turkish Airlines Ladies Open on Wednesday.

Reid carded a closing 73 at Carya Golf Club in Belek to finish 11 under par, four shots ahead of France's Gwladys Nocera.

"When you win you want to win properly and to lead every single day has been nice. I've not been in that position before, so to win in that way does make it extra special," said Reid.

FA uphold Chelsea claim

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has had his three-match ban reduced to just one after his sending off against West Brom when he kicked the ball against Chris Brunt's head during a break in play.

A statement from Chelsea read: "The standard sanction would have been a three-match suspension.

"However, following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing earlier today, the club's claim that a three-match suspension is excessive was successful.

"Fabregas will therefore now only miss our final game of the season against Sunderland on Sunday and will be available for selection from the start of the 2015/16 campaign."

United eye Dutch keeper

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The Mirror: Manchester United are also considering Ajax and Netherlands goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen, 26, as a possible replacement for De Gea.

Get involved at #bbcsportsday

Lee Parkinson: I liked Rosler as a player and I liked what he did at Brentford FC as manager, so I'm optimistic.

Signing in

One for fans of Hartlepool...

Twitter

Fabregas ban reduced

EPA

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has had his suspension reduced to one match following his red card against West Brom on Monday evening, the Football Association has announced.

St Helens coach fined

St Helens coach Keiron Cunningham has been fined £500 by the Rugby Football League for publicly criticising a referee.

Cunningham berated the performance of James Child after his side's 33-26 Super League defeat by Catalans Dragons in Perpignan on Saturday, 9 May.

Half the fine has been suspended until the end of the season and Cunningham, who has 14 days to appeal, was warned over his future conduct.

Happy Birthday

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One birthday we forgot earlier on was that of former Cameroon striker Roger Milla. Today Milla turns 63 and is doubtless still playing football and gyrating at corner flags for a team somewhere...

Boro sell out

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Emotional win for Walkden

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Bianca Walkden has dedicated her World Championship gold medal to her late grandfather, who passed away moments before her final on Sunday.

The 23-year-old had spoken to Pasqual Discala before her semi-final earlier that day and he was aware that she had reached the heavyweight final, but the 74-year-old Italian lost his year-long battle with illness soon afterwards.

"I told him I'd win for him, so there was a bit of pressure to be honest," she tells BBC Sport.

Watch: Uwe Rosler news conference

If you want more from the news conference at which Uwe Rosler was introduced as Leeds United manager, who can watch the whole event here thanks to our colleagues at BBC Radio Leeds.

'A big, big thank you'

An update on the health of Jimmy Greaves, 75, who suffered a severe stroke at the start of the month.

"Jimmy is improving still. Its a long hard road ahead but there is room for cautious optimism," read a statement posted on Greaves' official Facebook page.

PA

"Jim and the whole family want me to convey how much it means to all of us, that there have been hundreds of cards and gifts and flowers and many many thousands of messages of goodwill on social media.

"We would like to thank Tottenham Hotspur for a fabulous bouquet and their heartfelt messages and all the famous footballers of all eras and all the media people Jim has worked with down the years for all their love and offers of help.

"From the bottom of the hearts of all concerned, and especially from Jimmy, a big, big thank you to you all."

Glamorgan build towards declaration

BBC Radio Wales Sport's Nick Webb:

Glamorgan 314 & 228-8, Essex 221

"Glamorgan wrested control of the match back from Essex as they recovered from 38-4 just after lunch to lead by 321 runs at tea.

"Mark Wallace led the way with an attacking knock of 79, his highest innings of the season, and shared a stand of 98 with Graham Wagg (43).

In a marathon afternoon session, 200 runs came as the game turned in favour of the batsmen."

Do you know more than the experts?

.

Ahead of the meeting of Arsenal and Sunderland, why not have a wee dabble with BBC Sport's predictor game?

Arsenal v Sunderland (Wed, 19:45 BST)

Empics

Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat: "For this club it is crucial to stay up, so everybody knows what they have to do for the next couple of years."

Asked he was nervous, he replied: "No, excited, very excited. But it's better for all of us, the sooner the better we get that point.

"It's good for the club, for everybody at the club, because then they know what they have to do, because there's a lot that has to be done here to do better, let's say it that way."

Arsenal v Sunderland (Wed, 19:45 BST)

AP

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger: "Sunderland are in search of a point to be safe.

"I expect them to be well organised defensively and to be sound at the back, and to try to use all the counter-attacks they can, all the set-pieces they have, to score goals.

"We have to put a high rhythm into this game and play with a high level of energy to win the game."

Arsenal v Sunderland (Wed, 19:45 BST)

A point for Arsenal should all-but secure a top three spot in the Premier League for the Gunners, while a draw would also secure Sunderland's top-flight status.

So here's a little stat attack before tonight's game:

• Three of the last six meetings at the Emirates between these sides have ended in goalless draws.
• Sunderland have only lost one of their last six league games (W3, D2).
• The Black Cats have been involved in eight 0-0 draws in this season's Premier League - three more than any other side.

Lancashire on course for victory

Lancashire 368 & 203-5 dec, Leicestershire 249 & 41-8

Division Two leaders Lancashire are heading for victory after superb new-ball bowling by Tom Bailey and Kyle Jarvis on the final afternoon at Grace Road.

Leicestershire went from 20-0 to 29-7 in the space of seven overs as Bailey took 5-12 and Jarvis 2-10.

Nathan Buck weighed in with the final wicket before tea following Lancashire's earlier declaration, which left the home side a target of 323 from 59 overs.

Hampshire bat on at Southampton

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

Hampshire 413 & 146-3, Middlesex 362

"A draw is now the inevitable outcome at Southampton as the hosts have reached tea on 146-3, leading by 197 runs in their second innings.

"Middlesex have toiled all day in an effort to force a collapse that may leave a run chase in the final session but a fifty from former England opener Michael Carberry has been the mainstay of quiet morning and afternoon sessions.

"The pitch has had its moments in the match with some interesting bounce but overall the bat has been heavily on top despite the slow scoring rate."

That's got to smart

An ice hockey puck can reach speeds of 100mph or more but that did not stop one Canadian player from deciding to head one into the net.

Chicago Blackhawks centre Andrew Shaw produced a leap even Stoke City's Peter Crouch would be proud of to head home in his side's NHL Western Conference final against Anaheim Ducks.

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The 23-year-old raced away to celebrate but officials ruled the effort out, citing NHL rules which state goals can only be deliberately scored with use of the stick.

"I understand, but I think if anyone can ever pull that off it should still be a goal," Shaw said. "I was just out there using my head."

American broadcaster NBC called the goal "the greatest that never was". Full story here.

BreakingGillespie to hold Strauss talks

Jason Gillespie is set to hold talks with England team director Andrew Strauss in the next 24 hours over the England head coach's position, BBC Sport understands.

The Yorkshire coach has spoken to Strauss on the phone and will now sit down to discuss the role.

Get involved

Jono: No matter how England play against New Zealand. If they lose it doesn't mean KP would have made the difference. Ok BBC.

Got it Jono, I shall pass it on to my colleagues.

Scholes in a spot of bother

Tweet from Espn's Alex Perry: "Here's Paul Scholes in a familiar position at the #BMWPGA. For someone so majestic on the football pitch..."

Twitter

Blackpool charged

A little more flesh on the bones about Blackpool, charged by the FA after their final match of the season against Huddersfield was abandoned following a pitch invasion.

An FA statement read: "Blackpool have been charged by The FA in relation to crowd incidents during the second half of their match against Huddersfield Town at Bloomfield Road on 2 May 2015.

BBC Radio Leeds

"It is alleged the club failed to ensure that no spectators or unauthorised persons were permitted to encroach onto the pitch area whilst attending this fixture, resulting in its abandonment.

"Blackpool have until 28 May 2015 to respond to the charge."

The Seasiders finished bottom of the Championship and will play League One football next season - four years after being in the Premier League.

Burnley announce departure

Burnley have announced that chief executive Lee Hoos is leaving and will join QPR.

"Mr Hoos, who joined the club in December 2011, is departing for family reasons and will take up a position of CEO at Queens Park Rangers later this summer," said a statement on the Clarets website.

Burnley have been relegated from the Premier League, along with Rangers.

Carlisle consider investment options

Carlisle United have put investment talks with businessman Andrew Lapping on hold after receiving a new offer from an undisclosed party.

"I'm doing this because it's my club, it's been a huge part of my life and it always will be," Lapping told BBC Radio Cumbria.

"I can't help feeling a bit sore - I think I offered a good option."

Happy birthday

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Two top drawer goalkeepers are celebrating today, with Real Madrid and Spain custodian Iker Casillas turning 34 and Chelsea's Petr Cech blowing out 33 candles.

Other sporting figures enjoying a special day after 2013 Tour de France winner Chris Froome (30) and British Olympic diver Tonia Couch (26).

The relegation battle

Sunderland need just a solitary point to confirm their Premier League place for next season. But will they get it on Wednesday at Arsenal or against Chelsea on Sunday?

Newcastle and Hull are the other teams in the relegation mix and we want to know who you think will go down and why?

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

Arsenal v Sunderland (Wed, 19:45 BST)

There is a huge game in the Premier League coming up.

Arsenal take on Sunderland at the Emirates (19:45 BST). A win for the Gunners would see them confirm third place - and thus avoid that pesky business of having to play a Champions League qualifier - while a point for Sunderland would ensure their Premier League survival.

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As you'd expect, there will be live text commentary on the BBC Sport website.

We'll build up to the game here on Sportsday over the next few hours.

Man City knocked off top salary spot

Top 10 average pay/year (average pay/week):

1. PSG £5,298,693 (£101,898)

2. Real Madrid £5,040,520 (£96,933)

3. Manchester City £5,015,122 (£96,445)

4. Barcelona £4,715,116 (£90,675)

5. Los Angeles Dodgers £4,679,937 (£89,999)

6. Manchester United £4,679,377 (£89,988)

7. Bayern Munich £4,468,643 (£85,935)

8. Chelsea £4,353,056 (£83,713)

9. New York Yankees £4,263,577 (£81,992)

10. Arsenal £4,054,066 (£77,963)

Man City knocked off top salary spot

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Manchester City players may have been the highest paid in sport for 2014 but they have now been knocked off top spot by Paris St-Germain.

The Global Sports Salaries Survey for 2015 is compiled by the Sporting Intelligence website and revealed five Premier League sides make the top 20 with Manchester United at number six, Chelsea eighth, Arsenal at 10 and Liverpool at 14.

The survey considers solely the earnings for playing sport, not for endorsements or other extra-curricular activities.

BreakingBlackpool charged

Blackpool have been charged by the FA after their final match of the season, against Huddersfield on 2 May, was abandoned following a pitch invasion.

Headlines at Three

Here's the pick of what's happened in the sporting world so far today:

Cricket: England captain Alastair Cook says he did not issue an ultimatum over the selection of Kevin Pietersen.

AFP

Formula 1: Lewis Hamilton has signed a new three-year contract at Mercedes that could be worth up to £27m a year.

Rugby Union: England have named Chris Ashton and his 20-year-old Saracens team-mate Maro Itoje in the World Cup training squad.

Football: Championship side Leeds United have appointed Uwe Rosler as their fifth head coach in less than a year.

Keep on running

Remember Caster Semenya?

Six years have passed since she won the world 800m title with effortless ease. Semenya's victory was as decisive as what followed was shocking.

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The South African athlete was forced to undergo a series of gender verification tests, news of which was made public by athletics' governing body, the International Association of Athletics Federations.

"If it wasn't for my family, I don't think I could have survived," she says in a rare interview with the BBC.

"It was upsetting, you feel humiliated. I was world champion but I was never able to celebrate it."

Full article here. It's intriguing stuff.

Hull announce loan deal

Injury-hit Hull KR have bolstered their depleted pack with the signing of Wigan prop James Greenwood on loan to the end of the season.

The 23-year-old Greenwood, who recently spent a month on loan at Salford, has linked up with the Robins with immediate effect and goes straight into coach Chris Chester's 19-man squad for Friday's game at Super League leaders Leeds.

On this day

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In 1995, Paul Rideout's goal gave Everton a 1-0 FA Cup final win over Manchester United. Remarkably, that was the Goodison Park club's last trophy success.

Sheringham closes in on Stevenage job

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Stevenage are set to appoint Teddy Sheringham to replace outgoing manager Graham Westley after confirming they are talking to the ex-England striker.

Westley's final game in charge was Boro's League Two play-off semi-final defeat by Southend and his contact at Broadhall Way ends on 31 May.

It is 49-year-old Sheringham's first managerial job, having been West Ham attacking coach for the last 12 months.

Reaction to Alastair Cook's interview

Jon Evans: If Peter Moores was getting the best out of the England team then I am concerned about the team. On the whole they've been rubbish.

Uwe Rosler reaction

Leeds United manager Uwe Rosler: "I'm a glass half full not, half empty person. This is a great football club with great potential, we can be a force.

"There is a core of players with their best years in front of them, there is great potential. Neil [Redfearn] left a very solid foundation.

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"I think life is a challenge. I thrive on challenges. To be head coach at Leeds United is a chance in a lifetime.

"I'll be responsible for picking the team, completely my responsibility and have an input on who goes in and who goes out."

Uwe Rosler reaction

So Uwe Rosler has been speaking to the media after being appointed Leeds United boss. It is his first job since being sacked as Wigan boss in November.

"I am very proud of what I did at Wigan, what happened after FA Cup was a rebuilding job and there were problems along the way," said the German.

"I have time now to speak to different departments, see what is in place, I want to give everyone here a chance."

Redfearn offered role at Leeds

Twitter

Uwe Rosler reaction

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First reactions from new Leeds United boss, courtesy of our BBC colleagues in West Yorkshire.

'A quest for performance'

Andrew Benson

BBC Sport chief F1 writer

"Despite rumours linking him to Ferrari, there was never any real prospect of him going anywhere else.

"Hamilton refers to Mercedes as his home - he has used their engines since he started in F1 eight years ago - and his decision has been informed by a quest for performance."

'There are better paid drivers in F1'

Andrew Benson

BBC Sport chief F1 writer

"The announcement of Lewis Hamilton's new contract with Mercedes has been coming for weeks. Financial terms were agreed more than a month ago and the delay since has been about sorting out the sort of fine details that define Formula 1 driver contracts.

"There are better-paid drivers in F1 - at least in terms of salary before bonuses are taken into account - but racing for Mercedes is as close to a guarantee of success in the three years of his contract term as he can get."

Monte Carlo or bust

Simon Peach

"Press conference time at the #MonacoGP," tweets the Press Association's Simon Peach.

Leeds confirm Rosler appointment

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Leeds United have, as expected, appointed Uwe Rosler as head coach. More to follow from a news conference that has been brought forward to 14:15 BST.

Xavi to swap Nou Camp for Qatar

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Right, that's more than enough cricket for just now...

Back to the football, and Barcelona midfielder Xavi will announce on Thursday that he is leaving to join Qatari side Al Sadd, according to his agent Ivan Corretja.

The 35-year-old ex-Spain international is believed to have agreed a lucrative three-year deal with Al Sadd.

Xavi joined Barca as an 11-year-old and is the club's appearance record holder. His honours while at the Nou Camp outfit include three Champions League crowns and eight La Liga titles.

Cook keeps it simple

Stephan Shemilt

BBC Sport at Lord's

"Remember how Brendon McCullum took every question without the need of his media officer? Alastair Cook's presser is orchestrated, with a limit. Of those questions that do get through, plenty are about Kevin Pietersen, much to the skipper's frustration."

Kent strike pre-lunch blow at Bristol

BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Bob Hunt at Bristol:

Gloucestershire 193 & 47-2, Kent 235

"It was just about Gloucestershire's morning until the last ball of the session when Iain Cockbain flapped at a ball from Darren Stevens and was dismissed for three.

"Chris Dent chopped onto his stumps for 22 earlier in the session and Gloucestershire, with a lead of only 25, now need to consolidate this afternoon to give themselves a decent cushion."

'Cook faces defining summer'

Jonathan Agnew

BBC Test Match Special

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For the last 12 months, the only constant in the leadership of the England team has been Alastair Cook.

As the Test summer begins against New Zealand at Lord's on Thursday, England are coming off the back of another episode in the never-ending Kevin Pietersen saga, one remarkably similar to February 2014 when Pietersen was told his England career was over.

If England defeat New Zealand, they should be given credit for beating a more than decent side two places above them in the International Cricket Council Test rankings.

Should England lose, they should expect the disquiet among a vociferous section of their support base to gain volume. It would be the worst way in which to enter the Ashes.

Read more from Jonathan here.

Alastair Cook news conference

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Cook on Peter Moores' exit: "It was a tough call and we all feel for Peter Moores. He was a players' coach, a guy who right on the pulse. Getting the best out of people was his real strength. As a player and captain I loved my time with Mooresy."

Alastair Cook news conference

Cook on pressure: "Cricket is a great game, it's been my life. I'm incredibly lucky to have had these experiences. Everyone follows the England cricket team, they want us to be successful. We know the pressure, but it's a great pressure.

On the reputation of the England team: "I absolutely understand that cricket has taken hammering over the past 18 months. There has been a real big change, but we're now focussing on playing. It's a really exciting time. We made good strides in West Indies, but it was incredibly frustrating to undo that in the last innings of the final Test."

Alastair Cook news conference

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Now England captain Alastair Cook has taken the microphone at Lord's...

On the departure of Peter Moores: "It's another challenge. It's been an interesting two weeks, but they are decisions that have happened. We just have to get on with the game. The guys have trained fantastically, they are desperate to play some cricket."

On Kevin Pietersen: "There was no ultimatum on KP, I don't know where that came from. Over 15 months, the story hasn't gone away. The decision was made without the players, we just have to play. The players weren't consulted on Pietersen. The story has been put to bed by the ECB. I'm responsible for the team on the field. We have to focus on that."

Warwickshire chase win over Durham

BBC Radio Newcastle's Martin Emmerson at Edgbaston:

Warwickshire 450, Durham 185 & 300-7

"Keith Barker loves playing against Durham. He's now taken 50 wickets against them in just three seasons, and if he gets one more today he'll record the 10th five-for of his first class career.

"There is still work for Warwickshire to do if they are to achieve victory as Durham have a 35-run lead at 300-7 after following on.

"Mark Stoneman made 111 before he was run out following a mix-up with Paul Coughlin, but Coughlin has since moved onto 47, with John Hastings on 21, having been dropped off twice on two and three."

Hants and Middlesex heading for draw

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

Hampshire 413 & 70-1, Middlesex 362

"Middlesex needed a prolific wicket taking burst from their strike bowlers this morning to keep the game alive and apply pressure to the hosts but skipper Jimmy Adams is unbeaten on 37 and has held the visitors at bay.

"The pitch appears to have continued to flatten out as the match has progressed and, even with the odd ball not bouncing as expected, there appears little hope of quick wickets this afternoon.

"Hampshire have reached lunch on day four on 70-1, leading by 121 runs in their second innings."

Do you know more than the experts?

.

Ahead of the meeting of Arsenal and Sunderland, why not have a wee dabble with BBC Sport's predictor game?

Contrasting captains?

Stephan Shemilt

BBC Sport at Lord's

"New Zealand captain Brendan McCullum spoke for 15 minutes, without the need for his press officer to direct the media conference. He was honest and relaxed. I suspect that England counterpart Alastair Cook, on whom we wait, might conduct a different address to the gathered reporters."

Northants' Newton closes in on century

BBC London 94.9's Mark Church at Wantage Road:

Northamptonshire 219-4

"A pretty good session for the home side and thankfully no rain.

"Rob Newton has played nicely for his 88 but Tom Curran picked up two valuable wickets for the visitors.

"Firstly he had Stephen Peters caught behind for 82 and then bowled Rob Keogh just before lunch for 29. And the sun has even come out."

Brendan McCullum news conference

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On playing at Lord's: "It's the traditions, the history, the amount of great players that have been here. It's a wonderful place to play cricket, you grow up dreaming of it."

On his team: "This is the best team I've been part of, but we're only number three in the world. We have to keep improving."

Brendan McCullum news conference

New Zealand captain Brendan McCullum has been speaking ahead of the first Test. Here's a few highlights...

On England: "I don't know if we're playing England at a good time. They have challenges, but we've been there as well. They are stacked full of world class players and in their own conditions they will be a tough proposition."

On Kevin Pietersen: "It's difficult to make an informed decision on KP without being inside the group. It would be foolish for me to make outlandish statements. I'll leave those questions to Alastair [Cook, England captain] when he comes in here."

Wagg hastens Essex decline

BBC Essex's Paul Newton at Cardiff:

Glamorgan 314 & 28-2, Essex 221

"A magnificent spell of 4-7 by Graham Wagg routed the Essex tail as the visitors declined from 201-4 to 221 all out.

"On a pitch now exhibiting sharp lift and lateral movement, Craig Meschede bagged the crucial wicket of Ryan ten Doeschate for 49, whereupon Wagg, aided by brilliant catches by Michael Hogan and Mark Wallace, proved far too good for the lower order.

"Glamorgan banked a potentially decisive first innings lead of 93, having been put in, but lost both openers before lunch as ball continued to dominate bat."

Harrington expects to play at Wentworth

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Three-time major winner Padraig Harrington believes he will recover from a shoulder injury in time to compete in the BMW PGA Championship, which gets under way at Wentworth on Thursday.

The 43-year-old said: "Working on the principle I've never pulled out of an event injured, I believe I'll make it tomorrow.

"I'm an optimist. I've never pulled out before, and I've had some pretty bad injuries at times. If there's a physical way of me teeing up tomorrow, I will tee it up."

Lancashire extend Grace Road lead

Lancashire 368 & 146-4, Leicestershire 249

An early lunch has been taken on the final day at Leicester with Lancashire 265 ahead - and a declaration may be forthcoming when the weather improves.

They added 107 during the morning for the loss of Alviro Petersen and Steven Croft as they went from 71-2 to 72-4.

Ashwell Prince (52) and Alex Davies (35) have since shared an unbroken partnership of 74 for the fifth wicket.

Higham moves to Leigh Centurions

Warrington have sold hooker Mickey Higham to Leigh Centurions with immediate effect for £50,000.

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The Wolves accepted a revised offer from the Championship club after Higham submitted a transfer request, but the 34-year-old is unable to play against his old side in the Challenge Cup quarter final next month.

Sizing Europe retires

Cornelius Lysaght

BBC horse racing correspondent

"Irish jump racing star Sizing Europe is to be retired at the age of 13 says his trainer Henry de Bromhead.

"The popular veteran won 22 races including the 2011 staging of the Cheltenham Festival's Queen Mother Champion Chase in which he lined up five times and was also twice second."

Athletics

PA

Jessica Ennis-Hill will compete in the 100 metres hurdles and the shot put at the Birmingham Grand Prix on 7 June.

The 29-year-old will compete in her first heptathlon since winning gold at London 2012 the previous weekend in Gotzis, having proved her fitness following Achilles problems.

"I am loving being back competing - it is such a good feeling and I have had some incredible support from the public who have come to watch," said ennis-Hill.

"The crowds are always amazing at the Alexander Stadium and I am hoping there will be a really good turn out on 7 June to help me along."

Special guest

Richard Winton

And on a similar theme... Manchester City and England Ladies player Lucy Bronze and her team-mates have just met the Duke of Cambridge at St George's Park.

By royal appointment

David Ornstein

Prince William signs a wall at England's training headquarters in the company of St George's Park chairman David Sheepshanks.

The Duke of Cambridge is there to meet England Women's World Cup team and tour the facilities.

Lewis Hamilton in numbers

75 - Career podiums, made up of 36 wins, 21 seconds, 18 thirds.

42 - Career pole positions, placing him fourth on the all-time list.

36 - Career wins, making him the most successful British driver in the history of Formula One in terms of race victories.

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21 - Career wins with pole position. Only Michael Schumacher, Ayrton Senna and Sebastian Vettel have more.

11 - Wins last season, making him the most successful non-German driver in one season as Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel both won 13 races in a single campaign.

2 - World titles, and now one of only 16 drivers to have won more than one.

'A difficult decision but the right one'

PA

Blimey, it's been a busy morning. Back to rugby now and more on that England squad announcement.

Coach Stuart Lancaster: "We feel we have got tremendous strength in depth and are looking forward to working with them when we get together on 22 June.

"The policy [of not picking those playing outside of England] was put in place to protect the national team and also the long term health of the England team. It is something I have consistently supported.

"It is a policy New Zealand have and we are the only two countries to have it and we believe it is an important one.

"Having our players at English clubs is hugely important in short, medium and long term. It's been a difficult decision but the right decision."

It's a tough life...

Twitter

It's all about continuity

And - at the risk of really annoying the non-F1 fans among you - more on Lewis Hamilton's new three-year deal at Mercedes.

"Continuity is one of the key factors for delivering success in Formula One and we now have that in place," said Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.

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"Lewis enjoyed a historic world championship season with Mercedes-Benz last year and it was a priority for this season to renew his contract for the next term."

Wolff lavished on more praise, then, clearly being careful not to alienate his other F1 driver, Nico Rosberg, added: "Personally, I am looking forward to continuing to race with the strongest driver pairing in Formula One and to more historic achievements together."

'The best car I've had'

More on Lewis Hamilton's decision to commit his F1 future to Mercedes.

The British world champion said: "This is a company filled with real passionate racers, from the board room to the factory floor, and an incredible hunger to win.

PA

"Even after the success of last year, that hunger is greater than ever - and it's the same for me, too.

"The Mercedes car I am driving right now is the best I have ever had in my career - it's just so much fun to be out there every weekend, on the limit and fighting to win at every track.

"Mercedes began supporting me in 1998 so I am very proud that this contract means I will mark 20 years with Mercedes in 2018."

Survivors

Here's an interesting fact for you (depending on your definition of interesting that is)...

There are only 13 survivors of the past World Cup squad (2011) named in England's 50-man training squad for the tournament this year.

BreakingAbendanon and Armitage left out by England

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Nick Abendanon and Steffon Armitage have both failed to make England coach Stuart Lancaster's 50-strong training squad for the Rugby World Cup.

The France-based duo, who are the past two European players of the year, have not been chosen because RFU selection rules preclude the selection of those employed outside England.

Bath's rugby league convert Sam Burgess is included and there are call-ups for Maro Itoje (Saracens), Henry Slade (Exeter), Luke Cowan-Dickie (Exeter) and Elliot Daly (Wasps).

BreakingHamilton signs new deal

PA

Lewis Hamilton has signed a new three-year deal with Mercedes.

The F1 team have tweeted the news, with a quote from Hamilton, who said: "Mercedes is my home."

Should I stay or should I go?

Daily Telegraph: Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat, 67, will stay as the club's manager for next season only if they avoid relegation from the Premier League. They will secure their survival if they beat or draw against Arsenal on Wednesday.

At this point, we could use an up-to-date photo of Dick, or we could use a much more amusing one from 1997.

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Obviously we went for 1997.

Anyone else seeing Roy Munson from the film Kingpin?

'Hard to say no'

England caretaker-coach Paul Farbrace has admitted he would find it "hard to say no" if he was offered the job on a permanent basis.

Farbrace, 47, will take charge of the team for the two-Test series against New Zealand, which starts on Thursday.

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"I'll give this opportunity a really good go, and if at the end something happens, then great," said Farbrace.

Yorkshire coach Jason Gillespie is among the other contenders to succeed Peter Moores, who was sacked last month.

Celtic's Gordon gets writers' award

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Celtic goalkeeper Craig Gordon has been named Scotland's player of the year by the Scottish Football Writers' Association.

It follows the 32-year-old's return to football with the Scottish champions last summer after nearly three years out of the game through injury.

Gordon helped Celtic retain their title and win the League Cup - and he also returned to the Scotland squad.

Inter 'close to Toure deal'

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Vice-president Javier Zanetti has claimed Internazionale are close to agreeing a deal to sign Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure.

The Serie A club, who are coached by former City boss Roberto Mancini, are eager to end the 32-year-old's five-year spell in the Premier League.

"We are at the stage where we hope we can complete it," Zanetti told Italian paper Gazzetta dello Sport. "Yaya would give us that leap in quality."

Lima receives four-game ban

Catalan Dragons prop Jeff Lima has been banned for four games after admitting striking Featherstone Rovers half-back Remy Marginet with his shoulder during their Challenge Cup sixth-round tie.

St Helens captain Jon Wilkin has been given a one-match suspension after pleading guilty to a lesser striking offence during their win over York.

Your end of season awards stories

After Louis van Gaal's capers, let us know what you've got up to at your end of season awards...

Al Graham: Governor's Athletic FC inaugural Awards Night, won POTY and the Dance Off. Only one trophy made it on the mantelpiece.

Sam: Luton Town - we had two players arrested for assault after our awards night. One way to trim your squad down.

King: At my team's ceremony, after winning three awards I stood up to boo the player that got the best goal award. Hilarious.

Ashton set for England recall

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Chris Ashton is set to be given the chance to resurrect his stalled England career when he is expected to be named in Stuart Lancaster's Rugby World Cup training squad on Wednesday.

Saracens wing Ashton, who has 39 caps, was left out of the last two Six Nations squads and has only made two appearances for his country since last June.

But his consistent form in the Premiership, which has seen him score 10 tries in 11 games since December, is expected to earn him a recall.

Ashton was the joint leading try scorer at the last World Cup.

Cricket

From football to cricket, and the rather intriguing news that England pace bowler Mark Wood has a habit of geeing himself up in the field, between spells ... by imitating a jousting horse.

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Just for that reason he should start against New Zealand on Thursday as England's first Test of the summer gets underway at Lord's.

"I'm going to run in, try to bowl with good pace and see if I can knock the Kiwis over if I do play," says Wood.

"The slope is the big issue here - everyone knows that - but having spoken to Jimmy [Anderson] and [Stuart] Broad, they say the stumps don't move."

England name Euro under-21 squad

Rob Gallagher: Despite the absence of some "big" players the U21 squad is quite impressive and could do well this summer.

Gareth Williams: No surprise sterling not in obviously not a chance of a trophy or world class players around him!

Matthew Birch: Decent group of forwards in that England u21 squad. Who do you start???

Headlines at 11

It's been a busy morning so far, here's the pick of what's happened:

Football: Tottenham striker Harry Kane has been included in the England squad for the 2015 European Under-21 Championship, along with West Brom striker Saido Berahino and Burnley forward Danny Ings.

Football: Celtic goalkeeper Craig Gordon has been named Scotland's Player of the Year by the Scottish Football Writers' Association.

SNS

Football: Leeds are set to appoint ex-Brentford and Wigan boss Uwe Rosler as their fifth head coach in less than a year.

Football: John Carver says Newcastle's game against West Ham is the "biggest game in six years at this football club." Only a win will guarantee the Magpies' survival.

England name Euro under-21 squad

Ian Dennis

BBC Radio 5 live commentator

England Under-21 squad of 27 will be trimmed to 23 by Uefa deadline of 2 June.

Live coverage of the European Championship finals this summer will be on BBC Radio 5 live.

Southgate on Shaw omission

PA

Gareth Southgate has been speaking about the decision to exclude Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw.

"I've spoken with Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal," he said. "Medically he is not going to be fit. We were always going to lose someone to fitness and, hopefully, he will be the only one."

Southgate also said he was "able" to select the likes of Raheem Sterling and Ross Barkley but was keen to reward those players who earned England qualification for the European Championship finals.

England name Euro under-21 squad

Gary Lineker

BBC Sport

Louis Van Gaal speaking to Gareth Southgate about Luke Shaw " I said YESSS... he is not going."

England name Euro under-21 squad

As well as Luke Shaw, there are a few other notable absentees from Gareth Southgate's provisional squad. Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain,Ross Barkley of Everton and Liverpool's man of the moment, Raheem Sterling are all eligible but have not been included.

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

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England name Euro under-21 squad

Goalkeepers: Marcus Bettinelli (Fulham), Jonathan Bond (Watford), Jack Butland (Stoke City)

Defenders: Calum Chambers (Arsenal), Eric Dier (Tottenham), Luke Garbutt (Everton), Ben Gibson (Middlesbrough), Carl Jenkinson (Arsenal, loan to West Ham), Michael Keane (Burnley), Liam Moore (Leicester City), John Stones (Everton), Matt Targett (Southampton)

Midfielders: Tom Carroll (Tottenham, loan to Swansea), Nathaniel Chalobah (Chelsea), Will Hughes (Derby County), Jake Forster-Caskey (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jesse Lingard (Manchester United), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Chelsea), Alex Pritchard (Tottenham), Nathan Redmond (Norwich City), James Ward-Prowse (Southampton)

Forwards: Benik Afobe (Wolves), Patrick Bamford (Chelsea, loan to Middlesbrough), Saido Berahino (West Brom), Harry Kane (Tottenham), Danny Ings (Burnley), Cauley Woodrow (Fulham)

BreakingBerahino and Kane in U21s squad

Saido Berahino and Harry Kane are both included in Gareth Southgate's provisional England squad for this summer European Under-21 Championship.

The West Brom forward and Tottenham striker are among a long list of 27 players named for the finals in the Czech Republic in June.

Manchester United full-back Luke Shaw is left out due to injury, but there is a first call-up for Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

Southgate will exclude four players before confirming his final squad.

Your end of season awards stories

After Louis van Gaal's capers, let us know what you've got up to at your end of season awards...

Berocca Juniors: The BJFC awards evening is this Saturday, featuring the coveted Longest Arm, Worst Fan and Best Injury Awards.

Chris Summers: Manager decided he was gong to do a shot for every player that played last season. Safe to say all 22 shots weren't finished.

Cricket

AP

And while we're in cricket mode, India have named separate squads for the one-off Test match and three one-day internationals during the short tour of Bangladesh next month.

Test squad: Virat Kohli (capt), Murali Vijay, Shikhar Dhawan, Lokesh Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Harbhajan Singh, Karn Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umesh Yadav, Varun Aaron, Ishant Sharma.

ODI squad: Mahendra Singh Dhoni (capt), Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umesh Yadav, Mohit Sharma, Stuart Binny, Dhawal Kulkarni.

County Championship - Final day matches

Three County Championship matches are into their final days today, with Warwickshire hoping to wrap up victory over Durham at Edgbaston. Keith Barker's six day-three wickets have given the Bears a 76-run lead with six wickets to go in Durham's second innings, with the hosts are still to bat again.

Middlesex's match at Hampshire looks set for a draw following Nick Compton's first Championship century this summer, while Lancashire will hope the rain which has so far blighted their game against Leicestershire stops if they are to have any chance of winning.

County Championship - Day Three matches

Rain has not been kind to the County Championship matches, scuppering much of the play. Nevertheless, Kent (223-9) hold a slender 30-run lead after Matt Coles and Calum Haggett shared a record eighth-wicket stand against Gloucestershire.

Craig Meschede smashed 68 from just 52 deliveries as Glamorgan battled to 314 on a rain-affected second day with Essex (183-4), while only 28 overs have been bowled over two days between Northants (107-2) and Surrey.

Your end of season awards stories

Between Louis van Gaal's braying speech to Raheem Sterling being booed, this year's end of season awards have been fairly entertaining.

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But here at Sportsday we reckon you have some better tales to tell from your own club's annual jolly. Or failing that, have you ever done something amusing or made a fool of yourself at a ceremony?

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

The life of a fighting greengrocer

British boxer Tommy Coyle is set to fight Olympic gold medal winner Luke Campbell this summer in a bout that will bring the two Hull fighters together and Coyle has let us into his deepest thoughts this morning.

The 25-year-old, whose ring name is 'boom boom', helps out on his father's fruit stall in the middle of Hull.

Instagram

On Instagram he posts: "Another 4am start, life as a fruitier is similar to life as a boxer: you wake up every morning chasing that million quid just like fighters get up and chase their dream. Some days it rains and you make a loss, some fights you get knocked out but if you get back up the next morning or get back up in the ring and have the heart and courage to go again, you have always got a chance."

Deep stuff Tommy, thanks.

Leeds to announce new boss

Leeds United have just sent an email to the media announcing that the club will unveil their new head coach at 15:00 BST.

Adam Pearson, the club's executive director, will appear at a press conference with the new gaffer.

Former Wigan manager Uwe Rosler is the favourite to land the job.

John Carver news conference

Right, that's it from the John Carver news conference for now. The headlines were as follows: it's the club's biggest game for six years, he wants Manchester United to put out their strongest side against rivals Hull, he wants his players not to watch footie on the box and he also wants them to stay away from social media.

John Carver news conference

Newcastle are two points above third-from-bottom Hull, who play Manchester United at home, as the two teams try to avoid relegation on the final day of the Premier League season.

Magpies manager John Carver says he expects Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal to "put out his strongest side at Hull".

John Carver news conference

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Newcastle are one place and two points above the relegation zone going into the game against the Hammers.

John Carver says the match is the "biggest game in six years at this football club".

John Carver news conference

Newcastle boss John Carver has revealed that he has told his players to stay off social media in the build up to Sunday's game, and that he met with his squad yesterday for talks.

"We had a meeting yesterday, it was good," says Carver. "It was all good.

"We all know what we have to do. We shouldn't be in this situation, but we are and we have to deal with it."

John Carver news conference

Lee Ryder

The Chronicle's Chief Sports Writer Lee Ryder is at the news conference...

Newcastle play West Ham on Sunday knowing a win will secure their Premier League status.

"It's come to this and we have to deal with it. But I'm looking forward to the challenge that this week will bring," adds Carver.

"I have enough players who realise what this game means. I'm expecting the big players to step up and perform."

John Carver news conference

We promised you John Carver, and the man himself has arrived.

The Newcastle boss begins by thanking supporters for their backing this week.

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"It's all been positive. People have supported what we are trying to do," Carver said.

"We need your support so whatever you think of me, Lee Charnley or Mike Ashley put it to one side.

"The post-mortem can come after the game.‎"

Itoje's big chance

Maro Itoje will prosper in England's World Cup training camp, according to Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall.

The 20-year-old forward is set to be included in Stuart Lancaster's 50-man squad, which will be announced on Wednesday at 12:00 BST.

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Itoje captained England to the Junior World Championship title in 2014, but has only broken into the Saracens' first team this season.

"It will do him all the good in the world," McCall told BBC Radio 5 live.

Want an interesting fact about Itoje? Thought so. He is studying for a politics degree at the School of Oriental and African studies in London. So now you know...

Ronnie launches a rocket at refs

Ronnie O'Sullivan, never one to make a controversial statement, has criticised the standard of refereeing in the sport.

The 39-year-old lost to eventual winner Stuart Bingham at the World Championships in Sheffield last month.

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"The referee who was overseeing my game with Stuart Bingham kept walking around the table while I was on the shot," O'Sullivan said in his Eurosport blog.

"I've had a few ding-dongs with referees this year. The standard of some of the refs has been below par. There's nothing worse then a ref breaking your rhythm."

Congrats

Twitter

Rosler to Leeds?

Uwe Rosler, who once looked like this...

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And now looks like this...

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... has held talks with Leeds United about becoming the club's new boss.

Rosler has been out of work since being sacked by Wigan in November.

Leeds' current head coach Neil Redfearn is out of contract this summer and seems set to leave after chairman Massimo Cellino called him "a baby" and "weak".

John Carver news conference

We're expecting Newcastle boss John Carver any moment. He's giving a news conference ahead of the Magpies vital final game against West Ham. Only a win will guarantee their survival - it will be interesting to hear what he has to say.

Damian Spellman

"The media await the arrival of #nufc head coach John Carver," tweets the Press Association's Damian Spellman.

Advantage Broady

Liam Broady is also in first round qualifying action and will continue his match with Romanian Radu Albot today, 5-4 up in the first set.

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Players have to come through three rounds of qualifying to reach the main draw at Roland Garros, which begins on 24 May.

Women's qualifying begins today, with Britain's Johanna Konta and Naomi Broady taking on Jovana Jaksic of Serbia and Turkey's Cagla Buyukakcay.

Brits on song

Some good news. Britain's James Ward, Kyle Edmund and Brydan Klein have all progressed through the first round of French Open qualifying with three-set wins.

Ward overcame Irishman James McGee 6-1 1-6 6-0 and will face Sweden's Christian Lindell on Wednesday.

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Edmund will meet Victor Hanescu after recovering from a set down to beat Gerald Melzer 3-6 6-2 6-4.

Klein's 3-6 6-2 9-7 success over Mathias Bourgue set up a second-round encounter with Facundo Arguello.

Headlines at 9

Here is what is making the headlines so far today:

Football: Liverpool's Raheem Sterling has been named as the club's Young Player of the Year, but was booed by a small number of fans as he collected his award.

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

Cycling: Team Sky boss Sir Dave Brailsford says cycling should copy Formula 1 and allow TV viewers to hear radio communications between teams and their riders.

Final off after lesbian comment

The final of the Coppa Italia Womenhas been cancelled after a football official allegedly referred to female players as a "bunch of lesbians".

The comment was included in the written minutes of an amateur football meeting last week.

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However, Felice Belloli, president of Italy's amateur football association, who is accused of making the statement, has denied doing so.

Brescia were due to face Tavagnacco in the final on Saturday.

Sheringham to Stevenage

West Ham have given attacking coach Teddy Sheringhampermission to speak to League Two club Stevenage about their manager's job.

Stevenage boss Graham Westley, whose contract expires on 31 May, has hinted he may leave after they failed to gain promotion through the play-offs.

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Ex-England striker Sheringham, 49, rejoined the Hammers 12 months ago.

Should be be appointed, it would be the former Tottenham and Manchester United forward's first managerial position.

Van Gaal takes centre stage

Then, with presenter Jim Rosenthal wrapping up proceedings in Old Trafford's Manchester Suite, there was a Van Gaal encore.

Returning to the stage and grabbing the microphone, he shouted: "Hello, hello, pay attention to the manager!"

He then admonished those present for not applauding the female saxophonist, who he said had played "fantastically".

Matter of time before he gets his own TV show.

Van Gaal takes centre stage

Louis van Gaal is a very good football manager. But not half as good as he is at comedy.

The Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal produced what was described as the "greatest speech of all time" to steal the show at the club's player of the year awards evening.

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After Spanish goalkeeper David De Gea won both the Players' Player and Fans' Player of the Year accolades for a second year running, Van Gaal took to the stage live on MUTV.

Recalling a team meeting at which captain Wayne Rooney said United could push for second in the Premier League, the Dutchman bellowed "yes" and punched the air.

Let's hear what they say

Here's an interesting one. Team Sky boss Sir Dave Brailsford says cycling should copy Formula 1 and allow TV viewers to hear radio communications between teams and their riders.

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The former British Cycling performance director believes it will help explain the sport's tactics.

Cycling is trying to find ways to boost its appeal but Brailsford does not want to see a drastic overhaul.

"It would be super interesting to hear what the sporting directors are saying to the riders," he said.

As long as they didn't swear, obviously.

How's your maths?

Might be a bit early for this but Ben Burgess - footballer turned primary school teacher (you may remember this brilliant feature) - has just tweeted this with the message 'have a go at our maths starter of the day'.

Twitter

Just in case you can't read it, the puzzle says: "Arrange the numbers one to five in the squares so that the total of the row is the same as the total of the column'.

Could be a tough day for the kids in his class...

Rory aiming high

While we're on the subject of Rory McIlroy, have a read of this piece by BBC sports editor Dan Roan, who sat down with the world number one for a lengthy and candid chat.

It's an illuminating article, in which McIlroy talks about wanting to be "the best player of my generation" and how being happy off the course ensures you play better on it.

There's also a video of the interview.

BBC Sport

Well worth checking out.

More success for McIlroy

Rory McIlroy has been named - and I don't think this is the greatest of shock in the world - Golfer of the Year and Players' Player of the Year at the the European Tour Players' Awards.

The world number one was presented with the double award at a ceremony in London following a stunning year in which he won the Open and the US PGA Championship as well as playing in Europe's Ryder Cup win.

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The Northern Irishman's last 10 European Tour finishes have seen him claim five victories, three runners-ups places and two more top-10 spots.

McIlroy said: "The last 12 months have been absolutely incredible. I've put the hard work in and it's really paid off. I've got seven wins in the last 12 months and I'm just trying to keep going and increase that tally."

Sounds ominous for everyone else.

Fans pay for surgery

Remember that act of kindness we mentioned earlier?

Fans of Gateshead have raised the £7,000 required to pay for an operation that could save a player's career.

Midfielder JJ O'Donnell, 23, is suffering from Sesamoiditis, a condition which causes inflammation in the bones under his toes.

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A group of supporters began fundraising on 2 May and an online charity appeal was set up for donations. The total reached almost £5,000, before Sunderland striker Danny Graham then stepped in to contribute the rest.

"To everyone has donated, whether it was a fiver or £100, to what Danny Graham gave ... I am just so grateful," said O'Donnell.

Brings a tear to the eye.

Difficult and trying

Speaking at Liverpool's awards night, Brendan Rodgers admitted it had been a "difficult, trying season".

AFP

The Reds' boss said: "A number of distractions that we couldn't have planned for have made it difficult, but the players have given everything."

Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho was voted the club's player of the season.

'Some jeered, some shouted stay'

So to Raheem Sterling, who is certainly dominating the headlines at the moment.

The Liverpool winger was named as the club's Young Player of the Year at a ceremony at the Liverpool Echo Arena last night, but was booed by a small number of fans as he collected his award.

AFP

The 20-year-old forward received the accolade 24 hours after it emerged that he will ask to leave to club.

While some fans jeered, others shouted: "Stay, Raheem."

All the speculation now is about where Sterling will end up if he leaves Anfield, with Man City and - perhaps surprisingly - Bayern Munich apparently interested.

Wednesday's papers

The Guardian

More Sterling in the Guardian, but the main story is about Jason Gillespie's prospects of landing the England coaching job.

Wednesday's papers

The Mirror

Manchester City remain the front runners to sign Sterling from Liverpool, with The Mirror claiming the Blues will pay £40m for the 20-year-old, and pay him £150,000 a week in wages.

Wednesday's papers

The i

Liverpool won't be bullied by Sterling's demands, that's the jist of the story in The i. Plus there's a big picture of the England cricket camp smiling ... though whether they'll still be happy after the Tests against New Zealand and the Aussies remains to be seen.

Wednesday's papers

Daily Mail

Raheem Sterling looks fairly - ish - happy to have won that award, but, as the Mail points out, he was booed by a few fans at the Liverpool Echo Arena when he went on stage to accept his prize. We'll have more on this in a moment.

Here we go again

Poor old Raheem Sterling. Not many people win an award for being good and then get booed.

EPA

But football's a cruel world. Or is it? Heard about the fans who raised thousands of pounds to pay for a player's career-saving injury?

We'll bring you that, and all the breaking sporting news - plus the build-up to Arsenal's Premier League game with Sunderland.

First, the papers...