Sportsday - Thursday as it happened

1. Dick Advocaat extends Sunderland stay
2. Liverpool agree deal for Man City's James Milner
3. England 'could host World Cup 2022'
4. French Open women's semi-finals
5. Get involved #bbcsportsday

Well folks, that's another edition of Sportsday consigned to the annals.

We'll do it all over again from 08:00 BST tomorrow, when we'll have all your morning gossip and back pages.

In the mean time, keep striving to ask the big questions in life, much like Cardiff City defender Matt Kennedy has done this evening. Goodnight.

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BBC Radio 5 live

Let us point you towards some sporting listening this evening, because there's plenty of it.

Get the latest discussion from the world of athletics, with 5 live Track and Field from 19:30 BST, and after that at 21:00 BST, it's a women's cycling special on BeSpoke.

Both are on BBC Radio 5 live and you can listen here.

Also, on 5 live Sports Extra, there's full rugby league commentary of Widnes Vikings v Hull FC from 19:30 BST.

Poutine and baking

Nico Rosberg

Daniel Ricciardo gets some poutine and Nico Rosberg is in a giant oven. It's time for some F1 gossip.

If you've never tried poutine, get yourself n the next plane to Montreal and guzzle some down. Chips, cheese and gravy - what's not to love?

'Working hard on reforms'

Ever had one of those days where you've just been locked in the office all day working on Fifa reforms and somebody keeps trying to take your photo? No, me neither.

Twitter

West Indies v Australia

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The first Test between the West Indies and Australia very much hangs in the balance.

The Windies, who only mustered 148 in their first innings, have so far restricted the tourists to 208-8, with Devendra Bishoo taking six wickets for 68 runs.

It's only the second day - expect a winner in this one.

FAI claim Fifa paid them £3.6m

Here is more on the claims that Fifa paid the Football Association of Ireland to stop legal action over Thierry Henry's handball in Ireland's World Cup play-off defeat by France in 2009.

FAI chief executive John Delaney said the association believed it had a legal case against Fifa.

A fee was then agreed to drop the claim, Delaney said, after Ireland missed the 2010 finals in South Africa.

The fee was believed to be 5 million euros (£3.6m).

'I can't believe it'

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Serena Williams will now face Lucie Safarova in the French Open final.

Safarova describes reaching her first Rolland Garros final as a "dream come true" after defeating Ana Ivanovic 7-5 7-5. The Czech 28-year-old adds: "I still can't believe it.

"I started a little slowly but I tried to keep up the level and started to play really aggressive because that was only the way to win. It's unbelievable."

Tennis

Serena Williams had looked unwell for most of this match, but she's pulled it out of the bag by winning 10 consecutive games.

EPA

It's an emotional finish to the semi-final for her and her opponent Timea Bacsinszky.

"I don't know how I did it. If I was going to lose, I didn't want to lose without a fight I just tried to find some energy form somewhere. I hope I will get better before Saturday. I am ill," says Serena.

Get all the reaction from our rolling live text commentary.

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

Serena Williams beats Timea Bacsinszky 4-6 6-3 6-0 to reach French Open final.

It's the Conference Jim, but not as we know it

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From today, forget everything you knew. The world has changed.

The Conference, the top division of non-league, has now officially been renamed the National League.

And the Conference South and Conference North I hear you ask? Well, they will be the National League South and National League North, of course.

The name change, announced in April, is effective as of today.

Aguerooo!!!

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A horse named after that famous bit of commentary came fourth on its debut today.

Aguerooo is named for Martin Tyler's exquisitely timed commentary when striker Sergio Aguero secured the Premier League title for Manchester City in 2012.

He was outside the top three in the 4.10 at Lingfield, in a race sponsored by Crystal Palace FC, oddly.

Serena fights back

Piers Newbery

BBC Sport at Roland Garros

"Serena breaks, 2-0 in the decider. A robust selection of opinions out there regarding this match."

The opinions of which Piers speak are based around whether Serena Williams is putting on the histrionics around her apparent illness.

Regardless, she has recovered from a set down to level up, and is now a break up in the decider.

It's getting interesting. Follow our live text right here.

No Turin back now

Nicolo De Marchi

How far would you walk to see your side in the Champions League final?

If you're Nicolo De Marchi, the answer is 683 miles.

De Marchi made a promise to Juve on Twitter that he would walk from Turin to Berlin should the Old Lay beat Real Madrid in the semi-final. They did - and he's doing it. Well done, sir.

Juventus face Barcelona in Germany on Saturday.

Southampton's Schneiderlin ponders future

Morgan Schneiderlin

"Thinking about what the future holds," writes Morgan Schneiderlin on Instagram.

The French midfielder has been linked with a move away from Southampton, although he could just be considering whether to go with steak and chips or paella for tea.

The men who chose Russia and Qatar

Ever wonder what happened to the men who voted for the corruption-plagued 2018 and 2022 World Cup bids?

Well, the Telegraph have produced this splendid infographic to fill you in.

Pendleton set for jockey debut

Empics

From the seat to the saddle.

Double Olympic cycling gold medallist Victoria Pendleton will begin her career as an amateur jockey on 2 July.

The 34-year-old started training in March and will make her debut in the George Frewer Charity Race at Newbury.

"The first time I sat on a race horse and didn't fall off was a relief, the first time I cantered on the gallops was exhilarating and the first time I jumped in the riding school and schooled over brush fences were hugely satisfying and exciting steps for me," she said.

Oyston's FA charges

PA

Here's a bit more on Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston admitting to five FA charges.

It is alleged the 47-year-old referred to supporter Stephen Smith as a "retard" in a text message exchange when the fan criticised him.

The FA asked Oyston for his observations in January and issued a formal charge in March.

Oyston admitted to five breaches of FA Rule E3 and a hearing has been scheduled for Tuesday.

Wasilewski signs new Leicester deal

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Leicester City defender Marcin Wasilewski has signed a new 12-month deal with the option of a further year.

Wasilewski, 34, joined in the summer of 2013 and played 28 games last season to help the Foxes avoid relegation from the Premier League.

Oyston admits FA charges

Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston has admitted five Football Association charges.

An FA statement reads: "The charges arise from a text message exchange where Mr Oyston used abusive and/or insulting words towards a supporter of Blackpool FC, which were aggravated by a reference to disability."

Oyston will face an FA hearing on 9 June.

Serena recovering

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Serena Williams is a set down to Timea Bacsinszky in their French Open semi-final.

Top seed Williams looked to be unwell in that first set. But it's going to serve in the second.

Keep across it with our live text.

When Frankie met Vinnie

BBC

Did you ever hear the one about Vinnie Jones dangling Frankie Dettori by his ankles off a balcony?

Watch a sneak preview of the Clare Balding Show, which is on Friday 5 June at 2200 on BBC Two and the BBC Sport website.

Blatter starts 'reform' talks

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Departing Fifa president Sepp Blatter has released a statement. It's pretty straightforward considering the events of the last week.

Blatter today had a meeting with Domenico Scala, the independent chairman of the audit and compliance committee, to discuss Fifa reforms.

"I want a comprehensive programme of reform and I am very aware that only the Fifa Congress can pass these reforms. Furthermore, the Executive Committee has a particular duty to share the responsibility of driving this process," said Blatter.

Dowie holds no grudges

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Liverpool and England striker Natasha Dowie says she has no hard feelings about being left out of the England squad for the Women's World Cup, which starts in Canada this weekend.

Coach Mark Samson chose to leave out the 26-year-old former Women's Super League golden boot winner, who has scored five goals in 14 appearances for England.

"I'm not bitter about it because deep down I felt that I've given everything I possibly could have," she said.

Lunch - Aus 153-6

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Australia managed to creep to lunch without losing any more wickets after limping to 126-6.

They go in for a few sandwiches on 153-6, but the plaudits go to West Indies bowler Devendra Bishoo, who has taken four wickets.

The Windies made 148 all out in their first innings of the first Test, which is now in the second day.

Thanks Ancelotti

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Paul Clement says Carlo Ancelotti gave him the belief to step out into the world of management.

The new Derby County head coach worked as Ancelotti's assistant manager for the past six years.

"He is a great man who gave me a lot of belief I could do this job," Clement, 43, said at his first news conference.

Serena struggling

BBC

Not so perfect at the moment. Serena Williams is having a wobble at Rolland Garros. The number one seed is a break down in her French Open semi-final with Timea Bacsinszky.

Follow our live text here.

England fighting fit for World Cup

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England manager Mark Sampson says he expects all of his players to be fit for England's first match of the Women's World Cup.

Sampson named a number of players who were recovering from injuries when he announced his squad last month.

England start their campaign against France on 9 June - with all of their matches live on the the BBC.

"We're in a great place in terms of the physical condition of the players, building towards that game," Sampson told BBC Radio 5 live.

Fifa paid Irish $5m - Delaney

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Some astonishing revelations have been made by John Delaney, the chief executive of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI).

Speaking to Irish broadcaster RTE, he claims that, in 2009, Fifa paid the FAI $5m (£3.25m) in compensation after Thierry Henry's handball goal caused Ireland to lose to France in a World Cup qualification play-off in Paris.

Hornets sign keeper

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Newly promoted Watford announce the signing of Lithuanian goalkeeper Giedrius Arlauskis, 27, who won the Romanian title with Steaua Bucharest in 2014-2015.

Arlauskis has played in the Champions League and Europa League for Steaua, Rubin Kazan and Unirea Urziceni.

He has 18 caps for Lithuania and played against England in a Euro 2016 qualifier at Wembley in March.

From back to front

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Rogerio Ceni has become one of the top 10 all-time goalscorers for Brazilian club Sao Paulo - which is not bad for a goalkeeper.

The 42-year-old - a penalty and free-kick expert - scored his 128th goal to beat Santos 3-2 on Wednesday.

Liverpool's Mario Balotelli, Aston Villa's Gabriel Agbonlahor and West Ham's Andy Carroll are just three strikers yet to reach 128 goals.

Qatar arrive for Scotland test

Qatar have arrived in Edinburgh ahead of their controversial friendly match against Scotland on Friday.

SNS

Their Uruguayan coach, Jose Daniel Carreno, says they are here to play a "very tough opponent" and to try and and improve with a view towards qualifying for the next World Cup.

When asked about Qatar's hosting of the 2022 finals, he said he had no idea about the bidding process, or how the bid was won, saying he's just been in the country for six months. But he did say Qatar winning the bid wasn't a huge surprise, because Fifa have been "opening the map" on where they take the tournament.

Cook to make Essex T20 appearance

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England captain Alastair Cook will make his first appearance of the summer for the Essex Eagles when he plays in Friday's T20 match against Surrey at the Oval.

The England Test skipper, 30, last represented his county in the short form of the game in May last year. Cook is also due to play for Essex in their next County Championship home match against Derbyshire at Chelmsford starting on 14 June 14.

Verratti to Real?

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Real Madrid have agreed a deal with PSG's 22-year-old midfielder Marco Verratti, according to Sky Italia.

Although the Spanish club have not arranged a fee with PSG, who are expected to want more than 50m euros (£36.7m).

Picture postcard

@middlesex_ccc

What a glorious picture at Hampshire ahead of their T20 match with Middlesex. The visitors are second in the South Group but will be leapfrogged by fourth-placed Hampshire if they lose.

The action starts at 18:30 BST and you can find live commentary here.

Inzaghi axed by Milan

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AC Milan manager Filippo Inzaghi will be sacked this week after just a year in charge.

The Serie A side told BBC Sport that Inzaghi, 41, will "not be in charge of the team next season".

The Rossoneri finished 10th in the league this season as they failed to qualify for the Champions League.

Aussies floundering

Another Australian falls on the second day of the first Test against West Indies.

Devendra Bishoo has his fourth wicket of the innings as Brad Haddin is bowled for eight.

The tourists are 128-6, with the Windies all out for 148 in their first knock.

Your notorious transfers

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Why must they leave?! Who left your club for your bitter rivals, and did you forgive them?

Toby Irvine: Mario Götze making the switch from Dortmund to Bayern. Gutting to see the German wonderkid leave the club he joined at 8

Webster's tache: Dowie left Palace to move closer to family in Oldham. Turned up three days later 10 miles East at Charlton

AJPS: Gustavo Poyet to Tottenham from Chelsea really stung, especially as my hamster was named after him

Never name pets after your heroes - they will only let you down.

Give us your suggestions via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

No FA interest in World Cup bid

Dan Roan

Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport John Whittingdale told the House of Commons on Thursday that England would be ready and able to host the Fifa World Cup in 2022 if it is stripped from Qatar.

Safarova books French Open final spot

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Lucie Safarova, 28, of the Czech Republic reaches her first French Open women's singles final after a 7-5 7-5 win over Serbia's Ana Ivanovic. Safarova, seeded 13th, will play the winner of the second semi-final between top seed Serena Williams and Timea Bacsinszky in the final on Saturday.

French Open live text here.

Woods continues to struggle

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Tiger Woods has reached the turn at The Memorial Tournament in Ohio and his day is not getting much better. The former world number one is four-over after nine.

Click here for the full leaderboard.

Britain's Whiley close to title

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Britain's Jordanne Whiley and her Japanese partner Yui Kamiji are one win away from winning their sixth consecutive Grand Slam wheelchair doubles title. They will play the Dutch pair Jiske Griffioen and Aniek van Koot in the final at the French Open.

Clement relishing 'great opportunity'

Natalie Jackson

Sports Editor, BBC East Midlands Today

Natalie Jackson

"It has always been a burning desire of mine to become a head coach," says Paul Clement after being presented as Derby County's new manager. "This is a great opportunity."

Clement has been assistant to Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea, Pairs St-Germain and Real Madrid.

West Indies v Australia

AFP

It's pretty lively on the second day of the first Test between West Indies and Australia.

The Windies made just 148 in the first innings, but the Aussies are struggling too.

They're 108-5, with Shane Watson the latest to go for 11.

Tuchel talks Dortmund

Bongarts

It's not going to be easy to replace Jurgen Klopp at Borussia Dortmund, but Thomas Tuchel has made a decent impression on his first day on the job.

Dortmund were led by Klopp since 2008 until his departure at the end of last season, but 41-year-old former Mainz coach Tuchel has faced the media today.

"We need an attitude that is characterised by hard work, modesty, courage, openness and a perseverance. We must create an atmosphere that is permeated with motivation, which is free from self-interest, and that sustains us," he said.

Lineker extends BBC contract

Gary Lineker

BBC Sport

Delighted to announce that I have agreed a new five-year deal with BBC Sport to present their football. Thanks to you all for putting with me.

Zenga to Sampdoria

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Who says goalkeepers can't be managers?

Former Italy and Inter keeper Walter Zenga is replacing Sinisa Mihajlovic as Sampdoria coach.

The 55-year-old is a former Palermo and Red Star Belgrade boss.

'I had just taken my first shot of EPO'

This, by BBC Scotland investigations correspondent Mark Daly, is well worth five minutes of your time.

How I became a drug cheat athlete to test the system...

Murray plots Djokovic upset

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Britain's Andy Murray says he will have to draw on all his clay-court experience if he is to pull off the shock of the tournament and beat Novak Djokovic in the French Open semi-final on Friday.

"I feel like I understand how I have to play on the surface better than I did in the past, I'm playing much better than I was a couple years ago," says Murray who is competing in his third single semi-final at Roland Garros.

Hard work reaps rewards

Ian Dennis

BBC Radio 5 live commentator

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QPR's Charlie Austin was a bricklayer during his time at Poole and Leicester City's Jamie Vardy was a carbon-fibre technician at FC Halifax. A remarkable rise from non-league to the England squad for both strikers.

Milner agrees to join Liverpool

@vincentkompany

Manchester City defender Vincent Kompany posts a message and a photograph on Twitter after team-mate James Milner agrees to join Liverpool. "You'll be missed at City brother, as a team-mate and a friend! Your drive and passion were inspirational. Good luck!

French Open

Piers Newbery

BBC Sport at Roland Garros

"Lucie Safarova is on target to break the top 10 for the first time next week, and could go as high as number six if she wins the title. Canadian Rob Steckley has been a driving force behind her improvement - he's the bearded Canadian sitting in her player box and doing a good impression of a surf instructor.

"The former world number 464 is a bit of a character and has worked wonders with Safarova. They clearly get on well."

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Advocaat signs one-year Sunderland deal

More on Dick Advocaat staying at Sunderland as head coach on a one year deal.

Black Cats sporting director Lee Congerton tells Sunderland's website: "Dick was always our number one choice and we were determined we weren't going to take 'no' for an answer.

"I have been in constant contact with him over the last two weeks and I'm absolutely delighted that he has agreed to return."

Advantage Safarova

Great comeback from Lucie Safarova as she battles from 4-1 behind to take the first set 7-5 against Serbia's seventh seed Ana Ivanovic in the women's semi-final at Roland Garros.

Follow all the action with our live text commentary.

Advocaat signs one-year Sunderland deal

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Is Wee Dick the smallest manager in the Premier League? Or is Nigel Pearson a giant?

'Bell will get back to best' - Brown

Getty Images/BBC

Warwickshire director of cricket Dougie Brown says he is confident Ian Bell will get back to his best for England after his recent struggle for form.

Bell has rejoined Warwickshire after he was not selected for England's one-day series against New Zealand.

"He has struggled a little bit, especially in the past couple of Test matches," Brown tells BBC WM. "But he is still a top-class player and I am sure we will see the best of him very soon."

The 33-year-old has scored just 44 runs in his last seven Test innings for his country.

Not out of the Woods

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The opening round of the Memorial Tournament in Ohio is underway and it's been a pretty inauspicious start for Tiger Woods. The former world number one is two over through five holes.

Follow the latest scores here.

'Football is the winner'

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

"In his first comments since announcing he will step down as Fifa president, Sepp Blatter writes in the football world governing body's magazine The Weekly: "What matters to me more than anything is that when all of this is over, football is the winner."

Worryingly, football is three goals down after the away leg...

Ward keen to erase bad memories

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Republic of Ireland defender Stephen Ward is hoping to erase his childhood memories of England's last visit to Dublin. The two countries meet on Sunday in a friendly.

Burnley's Ward, 29, was a schoolboy in February 1995 when rioting England fans forced the abandonment of a friendly fixture between the two nations at Lansdowne Road.

"I remember watching at home with my mum - my dad was working - and it was a weird night. But looking back, it was a night that people want to forget, and I think it's going to be a lot different this time."

Austin plays down talks about his future

QPR striker Charlie Austin is fronting an England news conference ahead of Sunday's friendly against the Republic of Ireland.

Asked about his future at Loftus Road, Austin says: "Unfortunately as a team we could not stay in the Premier League. To be honest I just want to live for the next two weeks, enjoy the moment, and what will be will be."

Juve clinch Dybala deal

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Juventus have confirmed the signing of Palermo striker Paulo Dybala in a €32m (£23m) deal that could rise to €40m (£29m). The 21-year-old Argentine has signed a five-year contract.

Question of Sport teaser

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Earlier, we asked which six drivers are the only person from their country to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix?

A few of you were spot on. A few of you were not.

The answer is: Fernando Alonso (Spain), Robert Kubica (Poland), Pastor Maldonado (Venezuela), Juan Pablo Montoya (Colombia), Pedro Rodriguez (Mexico) and Jody Scheckter (South Africa).

BBC coverage

BBC Radio 5 live

England travel to the Czech Republic later this month for the European Under-21 Championships and you can follow each of their matches on BBC Radio 5.

Ian Dennis and Mark Lawrenson will take on commentary duties as Gareth Southgate's side open their campaign against Portugal on 18 June before facing Sweden three days late, then Italy on 24 June,

Advocaat loved by Sunderland fans - Short

Sunderland chairman Ellis Short says Black Cats fans have taken Dick Advocaat to their 'hearts' after saving the club from relegation.

"Dick's credentials in football are top class and we saw what an impact his vast knowledge and experience had on our team and the club as a whole in just two months," Short tells Sunderland's website.

"Sunderland fans took him to their hearts and so did everyone at the club, so we are absolutely thrilled that he will be here longer term."

Your notorious transfers

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Who went where they should never have gone? We want your traumatic transfers.

Matt from Scotland: Abel Xavier from Everton to Liverpool. Great hair though.

Mark in Telford: Lionel Perez from Sunderland to Newcastle! Was my goalkeeping hero and it broke my heart! Was the 2nd and last time I cried over a transfer!

Greig: Billy Dodds from Dundee Utd to Rangers. Cut me deep. Hate when the Old Firm poach our players.

I'm with you, Greig. A dark, dark day...

Give us your suggestions via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

Advocaat signs one-year Sunderland deal

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So, after saying he was taking a break from the game, Dick Advocaat is back at Sunderland as head coach on a one-year contract. It follows talks with Black Cats chairman Ellis Short and sporting director Lee Congerton.

"After a lot of discussions with Ellis and Lee, they convinced me that I am the right man for the club," the 67-year-old tells Sunderland's website.

"It was a great feeling to be part of Sunderland in the last few months, the experience was something very special and after talking with Lee, Ellis and of course my family, we all agree it is the right decision."

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

Sunderland announce Dick Advocaat has signed a one-year contract to be head coach.

Deadline day dance

So, the big transfer news of the day (aside from James Milner) is that the big transfer deadline has moved.

The transfer window on 1 September will slam shut (it must always slam, it is never gently closed) at 17:00 BST, rather than the usual time of 23:00 BST.

It's bad news for lovers of late-night drama and men in bright yellow ties.

There are two reasons for the switch: 1. 31 August is a bank holiday. 2. Clubs need to submit their Champions League squads by 23:00 BST on 1 September.

Top stories at 2

Busy day? Here's a recap of what has happened so far:

• Manchester City midfielder James Milner agrees to join Liverpool.
• Reports that Dick Advocaat has changed his mind & wants to carry on as Sunderland boss.
• England 'ready to host the 2022 World Cup'.
• French Open women's semi-finals are beginning in Paris.

Milner agrees to join Liverpool

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Why is James Milner one of the Premier League's most reliable characters and why have Manchester City been foolish to let him join Liverpool?

Find out in this feature.

BBC coverage

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

It's women's semi-final day in Paris and you can listen to live commentary of both matches on 5 live Sports Extra.

First, Ana Ivanovic plays Lucie Safarova, then it's Serena Williams against Timea Bacsinszky.

Coverage starts at 14:00 BST here, and there's also live text commentary, if you want to have a sneaky peak while at work.

Your notorious transfers

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It still hurts doesn't it? Well, get it off your chest. What transfer to a rival still bugs you today?

Jack from Hull: When Paul Cooke left Hull FC on 22nd April and played for Hull KR on 27th April.

Lee: Willian flew to England on a flight paid for by Spurs only for him to bypass White Hart Lane and sign for Chelsea.

Martin Cee: Thanks very much BBC Sport, had almost managed to get the terrible Alex McLeish out of my memory.

NC from Norwich: Andy Marshall from Norwich to Ipswich. An absolute disgrace! NC from Norwich.

Ah yes, Andy Marshall to Ipswich. East Anglia has never been the same since.

Give us your suggestions via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

No go for Figo

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And while we're on the subject of Barcelona and bitter transfers, it's about time we mentioned Luis Figo.

The ex-Portugal winger, 42, has been blocked by the club from playing in a combined Juventus and Barcelona legends team to face a World XI on Friday.

Figo's inclusion prompted anger from fans of the club, still unforgiving of his move to Real Madrid in 2000.

Test of patience

"Culpa del doping no podemos estar en la despedida de Xavi," reads Lionel Messi's latest Instagram post.

Lionel Messi

Barcelona's Argentine forward helpfully offers his own translation...

"We can't go to the press conference of Xavi because the UEFA Antidoping Control," he writes, referencing the event held to celebrate the achievements of Barca's Spanish midfielder ahead of his final game for the club.

The team that forgot how to win

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It only took 37 games and 993 days, but Leicestershire finally won a County Championship match yesterday.

"There was a lot of relief," admits chief exec Wasim Khan.

Full strength Barca

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Barcelona announce they have a fully fit squad to choose from ahead of Saturday's Champions League final with Juventus.

Luis Enrique and his 26-man squad fly out to Berlin on Friday and will train at the Olympic Stadium in the evening. Barcelona are seeking to be crowned champions of Europe for a fifth time.

As we mentioned earlier, Juve are without their experienced defender Giorgio Chiellini through injury.

Elite sportswomen suffer sexism

More than 40% of elite sportswomen in Great Britain have experienced sexism but only 7% have reported it, according to a survey conducted by BBC Sport.

BBC

The anonymous questionnaire was sent to 568 women in almost 40 different sports, with 339 responding.

The survey was carried out as part of Women's Sport Week.

Silence is golden

Rory Smith

Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport John Whittingdale told the House of Commons on Thursday that England would be ready and able to host the Fifa World Cup in 2022 if it is stripped from Qatar.

Journalist Rory Smith of The Times is not completely comfortable with the suggestion...

Your notorious transfers

Which player or manager's departure have you never quite been able to forgive?

Christian Evans: Leigh Bromby, Derek Geary and Alan Quinn ALL making the switch from Owls to Blades. All booed by owls fans forever more

Tom Chambers: Getting bought my first Norwich shirt with Eadie 11 on, only for him to leave for Leicester a few days later..

Max Baggins-Craig: Rooney, Everton to Utd, look at how he's become & then think of where Everton could've been had they kept him...

Neil Halliwell: Set fire to my Torres top when he moved to Chelsea. Quite glad he left now...

Give us your suggestions via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

Brown signs Vikings contract

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Widnes captain Kevin Brown signs a new contract that will keep him with the Vikings until the end of 2018.

The 30-year-old stand-off, who made his Super League debut for Wigan in 2003, joined Widnes from Huddersfield on a four-year deal ahead of the 2013 season.

Chiellini out of Champions League final

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Juventus will be without defender Giorgio Chiellini for Saturday's Champions League final against Barcelona.

The Italy international has torn a calf muscle in training and will not feature in Berlin.

It means Chiellini will not come up against Luis Suarez - you may remember there was a little incident between the pair at the World Cup...

Advocaat returning?

BBC

Advocaat set to pen one-year deal

Juliette Ferrington

BBC Sport

A little bit of background on Dick Advocaat...

The Dutchman, who replaced Gus Poyet in March, guided the club to Premier League safety in the penultimate game of the season.

However, after being offered the job longer-term, he said that "it's better to stop now."

Sunshine in Paris

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It's women's semi-final day at the French Open and the weather in Paris is perfect as top seed Serena Williams faces Switzerland's Timea Bacsinszky. The first semi is between seventh-seed Ana Ivanovic and Lucie Safarova, who defeated defending champion Maria Sharapova. Play is due to start at 14:00 BST.

The weather for men's semi-final day on Friday? Not so good.

Maradona for El Presidente

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Now here's an idea...

Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro has suggested that Diego Maradona should succeed Sepp Blatter as Fifa president.

"The president should be Diego Armando Maradona or someone like him," said Maduro during his weekly televised address. "Diego Armando Maradona has been denouncing FIFA for decades, they've threatened him and they've laughed at him."

Your notorious transfers

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Let us know which moves between rival clubs still leave you feeling sore.

Helen Jones: Duncan Ferguson being sold to Newcastle without the manager knowing broke Everton hearts. He did later return home though

Faisal Husain: Robin Van Persie leaving Arsenal for Man United, then celebrating after scoring against them

Andrew Dennett: Glenn Murray from Brighton to Palace on a free!! And of course he scored against us!!

Mr C: Dennis Irwin: Oldham to United. Worst ever game in an Oldham shirt against them in the FA Cup semi before his transfer

Give us your suggestions via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

Advocaat set to pen one-year deal

Ian Dennis

BBC Radio 5 live commentator

It appears Dick Advocaat has changed his mind and decided to accept a one-year contract as Sunderland manager.

Last week, he said he wouldn't be staying on at the club, having secured their Premier League status with one game of the season to go. But now he is set to sign a deal for the 2015-16 season.

O'Loughlin 'one of Wigan's best'

SWpix.com

Wigan Warriors head coach Shaun Wane says captain Sean O'Loughlin is one of the best players he has worked with as he prepares to make his 350th appearance for the club.

The 32-year-old will reach the landmark if he plays on Sunday at Huddersfield.

He made his debut in 2002 and has led his hometown club for five years.

"He's one of them, I wouldn't like to name one but he's up there," said Wane, when asked if the England skipper is the best player he has coached.

Milner agrees to join Liverpool

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Some reaction from the man himself. Or maybe not...

Question of Sport teaser

Right, it's time for today's Question of Sport teaser...

Which six drivers are the only person from their country to win a Formula One Grand Prix?

Delph and Lallana miss training

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Fabian Delph and Adam Lallana missed England training at St George's Park ahead of Sunday's friendly with the Republic of Ireland in Dublin.

Liverpool midfielder Lallana, 27, was given permission to miss training following the birth of his second child on Wednesday and is expected to join the rest of the 23-man squad later on Thursday.

Aston Villa midfielder Delph, 25, was absent from training as he is still recovering from a minor injury he suffered in the 4-0 FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal last Saturday.

NBA finals get underway

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The NBA finals start tonight, with the Cleveland Cavaliers travelling to Golden State Warriors for Game 1 of the seven-match series.

Can superstar LeBron James lead the Cavs to a first ever NBA title?

Maloney & Millwall

BBC Radio 5 live

Millwall fans have a fearsome reputation, so how do you think they reacted when boxing promoter Kellie Maloney visited the New Den for the first time since her gender reassignment surgery?

Watch this to find out.

Advocaat for Sunderland?

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Dick Advocaat has changed his mind and will remain as Sunderland manager, according to the Sun newspaper.

The Dutchman, 67, led the Black Cats to Premier League safety but told the club he would not be staying on Wearside next season.

But the Sun suggests Advocaat has changed his mind and will be appointed by Sunderland on a permanent basis.

Chicago ahead in Stanley Cup

Reuters

The Chicago Blackhawks beat Tampa Bay Lightning 2-1 in the first game of the Stanley Cup final last night.

Goals from Teuvo Teravainen and Antoine Vermette gave Chicago victory in Florida and put them ahead in the seven-match series to decide the NHL champions.

Spurs must keep Lloris - Vertonghen

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Tottenham must not let goalkeeper Hugo Lloris leave White Hart Lane this summer if they are serious about breaking back into the top four, according to defender Jan Vertonghen.

"I hope Tottenham can keep him. It will be a sign for everyone next year that we want to compete in the Premier League," said Vertonghen, who is due to face his White Hart Lane team-mate when France host Belgium in a friendly on Sunday.

Dante to stay at Bayern Munich

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Bayern Munich defender Dante says he has no intention of leaving the reigning Bundesliga champions despite being linked with Manchester United.

"I've been in at least the semi-finals of the Champions League and the German Cup in each of these three years, and won the Bundesliga each time. It can hardly get any better than that," the 31-year-old Brazil international tells the official Bundesliga website.

Nike back Farah coach Salazar

Nike has reiterated the denials made by Alberto Salazar after doping allegations were made against him by the BBC.

Mo Farah's coach, who leads the Nike Oregon Project near the organisation's Portland headquarters, stands accused of encouraging athletes to use banned steroids and of employing unethical practices.

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Wednesday's Panorama documentary alleged that Salazar was involved in doping Galen Rupp, who won silver behind Mo Farah in the 10,000 metres at London 2012. Both men have protested their innocence and there is no suggestion that Farah has broken any anti-doping rules.

"We take the allegations very seriously," read the Nike statement. "Both Alberto and Galen have made their perspectives clear and fully refute the allegations made against them."

Your notorious transfers

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Still thinking about that player that left you for the other side? Name and shame them.

Ben Harris: Alan Smith. Leeds United to Man U after saying he'd never play for them. Absolutely gutted when left.

Tod Cowell: Sol Campbell from Spurs to Arsenal. Spurs fans still sing chants about Sol even though he hasn't played for Arsenal for 5 years.

Louie Waldock: Struggling to forgive Andy Johnson AND Bobby Zamora jumping ship from Fulham to QPR. Still stings a bit.

We're not just after football moves - Kev is obviously still rattled by this rugby league switch in he early 1990s.

Kev Parr: Gary Connolly. Saints to Wigan.

Give your suggestions via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

'Marquee player widens Super League gap'

Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

Super League's new marquee-player rule will widen the gap between the top five clubs and the rest, says Castleford chief executive Steve Gill.

Clubs voted 8-4 in favour of introducing the rule, which will allow clubs to count only £100,000 of a nominated player's wage as part of their £1.8m salary cap from 2016. That rises to £175,000 if the player has not come through their own ranks.

"I fully understand the need to retain our home talent," said Gill. "However I do feel as though we will end up with once again the top five clubs winning everything and the others just making up the numbers."

Fifa crisis

Former Fifa vice president Jack Warner has said in a TV address that he will reveal all he knows about corruption at the world football body.

Warner, who said he feared for his life, also said he could also link Fifa officials to general elections in his native Trinidad and Tobago in 2010. He is one of the 14 people charged by the US over corruption at Fifa.

Dean McNamara: Slightly worried, no Fifa update for a while......

Don't worry, Dean. There's one coming up right now...

Early night?

The Guardian are reporting that the closure of the summer transfer window has been brought forward to 18:00 BST on 1 September.

The rationale, apparently, is to allow England's Champions League representatives - Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City and, should they successfully negotiate a qualifier, Manchester United - to submit their squads for the group stages by the 11pm deadline.

Delph misses England training

Daily Telegraph football correspondent Henry Winter: Fabian Delph missing England training with what FA call 'a minor knock picked up in FA Cup final'. Expected to travel to Dublin.

Championship financial picture bleak

Deloitte's annual review of football finance in the Premier League is becoming a blur of almost inconceivable numbers.

Equally unbelievable from this year's report is the claim that, in 2013-14, the debts of Championship clubs spiralled to an astonishing £1.1bn. Divide that by 24 clubs and you're looking at £46m debt each.

Little wonder Dan Jones, a partner in Deloitte's sports business division, says that only increases in the parachute payments from the top flight are stopping the second tier having "a truly disastrous financial picture".

Even more alarming? Those parachute payments will be reduced from 2016-17.

Your notorious transfers

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Who have you struggled to forgive for switching to your team's rivals?

Alerick: No-brainer Carlos Tevez. United to City

Nii Dani El: Juan Mata switching camps to Man Utd. Still cannot forgive him would have preferred him moving to Spain, Italy or Germany

Peter Collins: Brett Williams, left Woking to join rivals Aldershot, then scored the goals to beat Woking and save Aldershot from relegation

Love that one Peter. It has it all.

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

England in training for Dublin friendly

@henrywinter

England face the Republic of Ireland in an international friendly on Sunday and Daily Telegraph football correspondent Henry Winter has tweeted a picture of Roy Hodgson's keepers hard at work in training at St George's Park.

Gloucester docked two points

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Gloucester have been docked two points for fielding an ineligible player, Mariano Galarza, against Sale in March.

They were fined £5,000 and lost two points, suspended for two years.

However, after an appeal by the Rugby Football Union, the deduction is now immediate and the club have confirmed they will not appeal the decision.

The points deduction does not affect the Cherry and Reds 9th place finish in the Premiership table as they finished eight points ahead of London Irish in 10th.

Saracens say goodbye to Griffiths

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Premiership champions Saracens have named the man to replace Ed Griffiths as chief executive.

Heath Harvey, who used to be in charge of the Club Wembley section at Wembley Stadium, will take over.

It's the end of an era for Sarries, with Griffiths being the figurehead of the club's emergence as a force in English and European rugby.

Team Ivanovic

@annabel_croft

It's women's semi-final day at the French Open and former British No 1 Annabel Croft has tweeted a picture from Roland Garros of Serbia's Ana Ivanovic in a team talk huddle led by her boyfriend footballer Bastian Schweinsteiger.

Ivanovic faces Lucie Safarova for a place in Saturday's final.

Your notorious transfers

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It's one of the most controversial acts in sport - leaving a club to join their rivals.

Benfica boss Jorge Jesus could be about to skip across Lisbon to Sporting, according to local media.

And earlier today, we brought you news that Australian rugby league player Daly Cherry-Evans performed a U-turn on a move from Manly to Gold Coast.

It's one of those days that reminds us of Alex McLeish's dubious decision to swap Birmingham City for Aston Villa four years ago.

Who have you still struggled to forgive after they jumped ship to your rivals?

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

Nadal upbeat - despite defeat

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Rafael Nadal believes he can recover from his French Open quarter-final defeat by Novak Djokovic and return even stronger. The Spaniard lost 7-5 6-3 6-1 on Wednesday.

Nadal had previously lost just one match in 71 at Roland Garros - against Robin Soderling in 2009.

"I lost in 2009 and it was not the end. I lost in 2015 and it's not the end," says Nadal. "I hope to be back here the next year with another chance."

Mr 100%? Your views

Mr reliable James Milner has sparked a separate debate with his move to Liverpool. Can a player ever give 110%?

Vince thinks so...

Vince Hughes: Sad to see him go.... but good luck fella and thanks for your 110% every time you played!

Neil doesn't...

Neil Foot: Can we just clarify: no player, Milner or otherwise, gives "110%". Stop this nonsense please

Iwan has obliged...

Iwan Williams: Gives 100% every game he plays he's a quality player

Get involved via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

Benfica's Jesus to coach Sporting - reports

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Benfica coach Jorge Jesus, who secured the second Portuguese league title in a row for the Lisbon side last month, is poised to move across town to rivals Sporting after a salary dispute, local media said.

Benfica had been trying to cut the 60-year-old's wage, which was the highest for any coach in Portugal, Expresso newspaper said on its website. The report also said Jesus' move to Sporting was backed by the club's Angolan shareholder Alvaro Sobrinho.

European host of 2022 'unlikely'

Culture Secretary John Whittingdale has been speaking in Parliament about England's prospects of stepping in to host the 2022 World Cup, should they be needed.

"I think as the chairman of the English FA [Greg Dyke] observed, if Russia hosts the World Cup in 2018 it does seem very unlikely that another European country would host it in 2022.

"But obviously if Fifa came forward and asked us to consider hosting it, we have the facilities in this country and of course we did mount a very impressive, if unsuccessful bid to host the 2018 World Cup."

Skrtel to leave Liverpool?

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Liverpool might have agreed to sign Manchester City midfielder James Milner but Reds defender Martin Skrtel is stalling on signing a new deal after appearing to have been offended by the performance-related terms, reports Press Association Sport.

Speaking to Slovakian outlet Aktualne the 30-year-old reportedly said: "It's unacceptable for me. I think that such contracts are offered to players who are much older than me or players who have had some health problems."

'England has facilities for World Cup'

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The Culture Secretary John Whittingdale believes England can step in to host the 2022 World Cup if Qatar is stripped of the competition.

The allegations of corruption around Fifa, and an inquiry over the awarding of the 2022 World Cup, have raised questions over whether Qatar will host the tournament.

Whittingdale told the House of Commons that England has the facilities to step in, if they are asked.

Although he did add he thought it was unlikely a European nation will be chosen as Qatar's replacement - should the Asian country be removed as hosts.

Milner agrees to join Liverpool

There have been around 34,000 tweets about James Milner in the last hour. Manchester, Liverpool and London unsurprisingly where the heaviest number come from.

Breaking'England can host World Cup'

The Press Association report that Culture Secretary John Whittingdale has told the House of Parliament that England can host 2022 World Cup if it's stripped from Qatar and if asked to by Fifa.

Hull deny Snodgrass setback reports

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Hull City release a statement after reports Scottish winger Robert Snodgrass had suffered a setback in his rehabilitation from the serious knee injury he suffered in his Premier League debut last August.

"Both the surgeon and the Tigers' medical staff are happy with progress so far and Robert has been given the green light to step up his rehab over the summer," reads the statement.

"Robert is now running under the guidance of the club's medical staff and continues his rehabilitation whilst the rest of the squad have a break over the summer."

Milner agrees to join Liverpool

PA

Let's just remember what Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini said about James Milner in an interview with the Guardian in March.

"I'm Milner's No 1 fan. Find me a more complete English player. There are players who are better technically, yes. Quicker players, yes. Players who head better, yes. But show me one who does all the things Milner does well. There isn't one."

Your Milner reaction

Much love for James Milner across the social sphere this morning.

Gary Davies: Bad business for City he is one of their best players nobody gives it 110% like he does

James Goodwin: It was out of City's hands. He wanted to go and refused a new contract. I'm a City fan and will miss him

Joshua Saville: Fair play to Liverpool good signing but begs the question where is Man City's quota of English players going to come from now?

Phil Jefferies: Liverpool have got the better deal here, being a City fan I have always thought we are a better team when Milner played, 110% effort every time.

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

Dunlop leaves Yamaha

Some breaking news from the Isle of Man TT races where Michael Dunlop has left his Yamaha team two days before the first race of this year. Dunlop, 26, won four races last year for BMW and has decided to go back to that bike at the last minute after struggling with his Yamaha during practice.

Dunlop is the son of Robert and nephew of Joey Dunlop - who has won the most TT races in history. Michael Dunlop is joint fifth on the list with 11 wins, eight of which have come in the last two years.

Milner's magic numbers

BBC

Stenson fades after fine start

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World number four Henrik Stenson failed to capitalise on a flying start as he looked to win a European Tour title on home soil for the first time in the Nordea Masters.

Stenson has struggled with numerous illnesses this year but is hoping to reproduce his late-season form of 2013, when he was second in the Open and third in the US PGA Championship on his way to becoming the first player to win the Race to Dubai and FedEx Cup in the same year.

Starting on the back nine at PGA Sweden National, the Ryder Cup star delighted the home crowds in Malmo with birdies on the 11th and 12th, only to bogey the 13th and 17th and reach the turn in level par.

On this day

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In 2008, Manchester City appointed Mark Hughes their new manager on a three-year contract.

The Welshman lasted until December 2009 before being replaced by Roberto Mancini.

Zawraq out of Epsom Derby

Cornelius Lysaght

BBC horse racing correspondent

Leading Epsom Derby hope Zawraq is to miss Saturday's big race having not sufficiently recovered from a minor injury suffered earlier in the week. Most bets on the colt, trained in Ireland by Dermot Weld, will be lost.

Your Milner reaction

Adam Watts: Milner might be boring but that's just what Liverpool need - a hard working player to encourage a few current lazy ones

Himanshu Singh: Finally Milner will get to play in midfield. Accomplished and proven footballer. Looks like FSG have enough of Young unproven ones

Matt Lewis: Very happy with the Milner deal, works very hard on and off the ball

Mark Davies: Milner a great signing for LFC. Will bring more composure to the centre of the midfield

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

Milner agrees to join Liverpool

James Milner is reported to have turned down better terms offered by Manchester City in order to move to Liverpool, according to Press Association Sport.

Milner believes he can play more regularly after making just 18 league starts last season. He has won 53 England caps and will add some experience to a midfield which, for the first time in 17 years will be without captain Steven Gerrard as he begins a new career in Major League Soccer with Los Angeles Galaxy.

Your Milner reaction

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Reaction is pouring in after Manchester City midfielder James Milner agreed to sign for Liverpool.

Luke: James Milner is a quality signing for them.

Spencer Sheriff: On a free as well! He'll run his heart out for them.

Matthew Hardiker: Really? Like we needed another average player for the team. Great.

Milner to join Liverpool

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MailOnline north west football reporter Mike Keegan references the need for Premier League clubs to include at least eight "home-grown" players in their 25-man squad.

Your Milner reaction

Plenty of thoughts coming through on James Milner's move to Liverpool. Will it be a success?

Michael Powell: Always thought Milner was very underrated, good bit of early business for LFC. Hopefully a sign of things to come

MJL: Milner will walk into that Liverpool centre midfield - the one position he's always craved. Makes sense he's joined them...

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

Milner to join Liverpool

Here's the full Liverpool statement after they reached agreement to sign Manchester City and England midfielder James Milner: "Liverpool Football Club are delighted to announce they have agreed a deal to sign Manchester City's James Milner, subject to a medical.

"The Reds have agreed personal terms with the England international, who will join the club on a free transfer on July 1 after his contract at the Etihad Stadium has expired. Milner will arrive at Anfield having lifted two Barclays Premier League titles, an FA Cup and a League Cup during his five-year spell with City.

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"The 29-year-old is also firmly established as a regular for England and has notched 53 caps to date. Having also represented Leeds United, Newcastle United and Aston Villa, Milner has lined up against Liverpool 24 times in total during the course of his career."

Milner the man for Reds?

Liverpool fans, what do you make of the signing of James Milner?

Surely it's good news to have such a reliable England international in your ranks? Manchester City supporters, are you sad to see the back of the 29-year-old?

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

Liverpool agree deal to sign James Milner

Getty Images

Big news from Liverpool as they announce a deal has been agreed to sign midfielder James Milner from Manchester City, subject to a medical. The Reds have agreed personal terms with the England international, who will officially complete his move to Anfield when his City contract expires on 1 July.

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

Liverpool sign Manchester City midfielder James Milner subject to a medical.

Franck Petricola dies in Isle of Man TT crash

French rider Franck Petricola has died following an accident during a qualifying session on Wednesday at the Isle of Man TT Races. The 32-year-old was making his debut at the TT after recovering from a serious accident at last year's North West 200.

The organisers of the event passed on "their deepest sympathy to Franck's family and friends". Petricola died at Sulby Crossroads, becoming the 141st fatality at the races since they began in 1907.

Clement pivotal to Derby - Morris

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New Derby County chairman Mel Morris says appointing former Chelsea, Paris St-Germain and Real Madrid assistant Paul Clement as boss was "pivotal" to the aim of becoming a sustainable Premier League team.

Derby-born local businessman Morris, 59, was confirmed as Andy Appleby's replacement on Wednesday, but Appleby will continue as a director.

Belgium second in Fifa rankings

England drop one place to 15th in the new Fifa rankings, while Wales also fall one place to 22nd. But there's good news for Scotland who climb two places to 28th. Northern Ireland are 44th, a fall of two places.

The biggest surprise sees Belgium, who play Wales in a Euro 2016 qualifier next week, move above Argentine into second place - their highest-ever position since the launch of the world ranking.

World champions Germany are still first with Brazil fifth. The team at the bottom of the rankings? Anguilla in the Caribbean.

Vaughan in Ashes warning

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Former England captain Michael Vaughan says they have no chance of winning the Ashes unless they change their approach after losing to New Zealand at Headingley.

"There is hope for the Ashes but Headingley was a blunt reminder that England have no chance if they try to fight aggressive teams by playing orthodox cricket," Vaughan tells the Daily Telegraph.

"They have to be different, take risks with the bat and the lengths they bowl and just try to think differently by being a little unpredictable with the batting order."

Ramsey links up with Wales

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has joined up with the Wales squad ahead of the Euro 2016 qualifier with Belgium at Cardiff City Stadium on 12 June. Ramsey, 24, had been given a few days off following Arsenal's FA Cup final win over Aston Villa last Saturday.

The rest of the Wales squad had assembled in Cardiff on Monday for the training camp. Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale is set to win his 50th Wales cap.

Trouble Down Under

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There's only one sporting story in Australia on Thursday. "Filthy cockroach" screams the back page of the Gold Coast Bulletin after rugby league player Daly Cherry-Evans committed to play the rest of his NRL career at Manly after a U-turn on a multi-million dollar deal with Gold Coast.

Filthy cockroach? A little bit harsh...

AC Milan 'close to Mihajlovic deal'

Former Sampdoria manager Sinisa Mihajlovic is close to being announced as the new coach of struggling AC Milan, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

Mihajlovic referenced Winston Churchill, Robin Williams and John F Kennedy as he resigned as Sampdoria boss after two seasons in charge at the weekend.

Cleverley to Everton?

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Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley, who is out of contract this summer, will join Everton this week on a five-year contract, according to The Times. The 25-year-old spent most of the 2014-15 season on loan at Aston Villa.

On this day

SNS

In 2009, former England and Bath boss Andy Robinson was named as the new Scotland head coach.

Fifa crisis

Here at Sportsday we are trying to move on from the Fifa saga, but it's not easy when more and more revelations are seeping out every day.

Former top Fifa official Chuck Blazer has admitted that he and others on the executive committee agreed to accept bribes in connection with the choice of South Africa as 2010 World Cup hosts.

The American said he also facilitated bribes over the 1998 event. The admissions come in a newly released transcript from a 2013 US hearing in which he pleads guilty to 10 charges.

That's all you'll hear from us about Fifa...for at least an hour.

Triathlete skips European Games

Triathlete Helen Jenkins says she withdrew from the European Games in order to aid her hopes of qualifying for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The Welsh athlete, 31, will miss the event in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 12-28 June because of an ankle injury.

"It's best for me to get the training in and really focus on our selection races," Jenkins tells BBC Radio Wales Sport.

Murray to forget Djokovic record

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It's women's semi-final day at the French Open, with Serena Williams in action along with Ana Ivanovic - girlfriend of Germany footballer Bastian Schweinsteiger.

But already attention is turning to Friday's men's semis. Can Andy Murray really beat Novak Djokovic on clay at Roland Garros?

"My job is to forget about what's happened in the past and focus on that match," Murray tells BBC Sport. "I need to come up with the best game plan possible to win against him."

To Hull and back

Relegated Hull City were top of the Premier League when it came to entertaining away fans last season. A Football Supporters' Federation survey rated the Tigers top, with fellow relegated side QPR at the bottom.

Nearly 4,000 fans in all four professional divisions of English football took part. They were asked to rate transport links, turnstiles, stadium layout, food and drink, view of the pitch and security.

Only 4% cited the likelihood of watching their team win as a reason for making an away trip.

Latest gossip

Rafael Benitez has been manager of Real Madrid for five minutes and already the gossip columns are full of what the former Chelsea and Liverpool boss might - or might not - do in the transfer market.

According to the Daily Express, Manchester United have had an offer of £110m for Real Madrid's Wales international forward Gareth Bale, 25, and defender Raphael Varane, 22, rejected by the La Liga club.

But the Sun says Real are confident of signing 24-year-old United goalkeeper David De Gea, who has one year left on his current contract, for £30m.

Read what other transfer stories are making Thursday's newspapers in the gossip column.

Back pages

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It's unlikely Mo Farah will be doing his famous 'Mobot' celebration. The Daily Telegraph sports section focuses on the story that one of the world's best known athletics coaches is at the centre of doping allegations following a BBC investigation. Alberto Salazar trains Britain's Farah at his base in Oregon in America.

Back pages

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If you're an Arsenal fan then the Sun features two stories on their back page but what will Gunners boss Arsene Wenger think? There's a picture of Gunners keeper Wojciech Szczesny having a cigarette while Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere is said to be 'fuming' after being charged with misconduct by the Football Association.

Back pages

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We love a good old transfer story and the Daily Mirror obliges with news that is bound to turn Liverpool fans red with anger. Will Reds forward Raheem Sterling be playing at Manchester United next season? The Mirror reports that Liverpool's bitter rivals want the player and are preparing a £25m offer.

Back pages

The front and back pages of Thursday's national newspapers are still packed with Fifa stories but we have managed to get our hands on one or two that are not. Time to find out what the papers are saying.

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Tired of the Fifa saga? Worn down by tales of Sepp Blatter and the crisis engulfing football's world governing body? So are we. It's time to focus on all things good about sport.

Can Andy Murray win the French Open? Do Juventus have any chance of stopping Barcelona winning Saturday's Champions League final? Is Lewis Hamilton going to win Sunday's Canadian Grand Prix?

Good morning and welcome to Thursday's Sportsday.