Sportsday- rolling sports news

1. Depay signs four-year deal with Man Utd
2. Arsenal charged over Chambers signing
3. Ex-QPR midfielder Taarabt joins Benfica
4. Countdown to Euro 2016 qualifiers
5. Get involved - use #europeanXI

Have a good evening

Right then, that brings this Sportsday to a close.

But fear not, there's plenty more coming your way this evening.

If cricket's your bag then head over here for live text commentary as England chase a target of 399 runs against New Zealand at the Oval.

And we'll also be bringing you live text commentary of Wales' crucial European Championship qualifier at home to Belgium - that one is a 19:45 BST kick-off

Thanks for all your comments today and we'll see you again soon!

Rooney - United's quickest

It's official - Wayne Rooney was the fastest Manchester United player last season - in terms of top speed that is. 

Still perhaps that's slightly surprising? What happened to Chris Smallling?.. 

Schalke appoint Breitenreiter as boss

EPA

German club Schalke appoint Andre Breitenreiter as their new manager.

The former Paderborn boss replaces Roberto Di Matteo, who resigned at the end of the season having led the the club to sixth in the German table, missing out on a Champions League place.

Breitenreiter won promotion to the Bundelsiga in his first season in charge at Paderborn last year, but this term they were relegated after finishing bottom in the top flight.

Your European XIs

Getty Images

And while we're on the subject of European XIs - here's a little reminder that tomorrow on the BBC World Service, Shaka Hislop, Stephane Henchoz and Carsten Ramelow will bediscussing their line-ups made up of players from the continent's top leagues.

You can tune in and see how yours compare from 16:00 BST.

European XIs

Today we've been asking who you would pick in a team made up of the best players in Europe this season.

Get involved using #europeanXI on Twitter, text us on 81111 in the UK only, or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Wales v Belgium (19:45 BST)

At least some Belgium fans appear to have made it to Cardiff without too much of a problem anyway. 

If you missed it earlier, scroll the page back down to 17:23 for another truly bizarre tale in the 'When Sat-Nav Goes Wrong' chapter...

Why play in the Faroe Islands?

You may not think the Faroe Islands - situated midway between Iceland and Norway - would be a prestige destination for a footballer looking for his next club. And you'd be right, of course.

But there are still a fair number of foreign players plying there trade up there, around 200 miles north of Scotland.

Owen Amos of BBC News has been out to meet some of them, and ask the question: Why?

From the Senegalese striker part-timing at a bakery, to the Brazilian who's made Torshavn his home, head over here for some truly intriguing stories.

Sunderland's Brown signs new one-year deal

Reuters

Wes Brown signs a new one-year deal at Sunderland, with the defender now set to stay at the Stadium of Light until June 2016.

The 35-year-old's previous deal was due to expire at the end of June.

Derby sign goalkeeper Carson

Former England and Wigan goalkeeper Scott Carson joins Championship club Derby for an undisclosed fee.

Carson made 34 league appearances for the Latics last season as they suffered relegation to League One.

The 29-year-old, who won the last of his four England caps in 2011, has signed a two-year deal with the Rams.

"Scott is an experienced goalkeeper who has played at the highest level for a number of years," said new Derby head coach Paul Clement.

No, not that Wales, the other one

EPA

We've all had problems with sat-nav, but this tale told as told by the Guardian, via Belgian website HLN.be really does take the biscuit.

Belgium supporters travelling by car to tonight's fixture against Wales in Cardiff wound up in South Yorkshire after inputting their desired destination simply as 'Wales'.

The really sharp ones among you will of course have guessed what the trouble was - and it might come as no surprise that they landed in a village outside Rotherham instead.

The good news? These intrepid Red Devils had at least set off in plenty of time and have apparently made it to the ground for kick-off. The match at Cardiff City Stadium gets under way at 19:45 BST this evening.

Your European XIs

Today we've been asking who you would pick in a team made up of the best players in Europe this season.

De Gea, Valencia, Hummels, Terry, Sergio Ramos, Iniesta, Fabregas, Alexis Sanchez, Cristiano Ronaldo, Luis Suarez, Gareth Bale

Wayne Powell

Which players would make your team? Get involved using  #europeanXI  on Twitter, text us on  81111  in the  UK only , or drop us a line on the  BBC Sport Facebook page.

Dixon guilty of 'fatso' jibe assault

Ex-England footballer Kerry Dixon is found guilty of punching and kicking a man in a pub who is said to have called him "fatso".

Dixon, 53, had denied assaulting the man in Dunstable in May last year.

But a jury at Luton Crown Court found him guilty and the judge warned him he could face a prison term when he is sentenced.

Dixon, a former Chelsea player, was granted bail and will be sentenced on 19 June.

QPR to sign Emmanuel-Thomas

PA

Queens Park Rangers agree a deal to sign Jay Emmanuel-Thomas on a free transfer after the forward's contact with Bristol City expires at the end of June.

The 24-year-old striker scored league nine goals as Steve Cotterill's side won promotion from League One this season.

QPR finished bottom of the Premier League and so will meet Bristol City in next year's Championship.

New Zealand set England record Oval target

PA

Down at the Oval in south London, New Zealand have finally stopped scoring runs against England - but only because they've run out of time.

The visitors have finished on a record Oval total of 398-5 at the end of their innings, leaving England with it all to do (they need 399 runs from 50 overs at 7.96 an over to win).

Head over here for live text commentary of that one.

Copa America - day two

Up to date with the Copa America so far? Well you should be, it only got going yesterday, but maybe you still fancy watching highlights of yesterday's opening match, when hosts Chile beat Ecuador 2-0?

Tonight it's the turn of Mexico who face Bolivia in a 00:30 BST kick-off in another Group A fixture.

And of course the go-to man for all things South American football, Tim Vickery, shares his thoughts on this tournament, over here.

Your European XIs

Today we've been asking you who would pick in a team made up of the best players in Europe this season.    

Which players would make your team? Get involved using #europeanXI on Twitter, text us on 81111 in the UK only, or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

City's big summer of spend?

Getty Images

What would you do if you were manager of a club with £20bn in the bank? Not that Manchester City can spend it all of course, but still, this summer the club are expected to spend big.

The Citizens have already got the ball rolling with a £25m bid for England and Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling, which was turned down, but chairman Al Mubarak still seems optimistic that fresh and exciting talent is set to arrive.

Kevin De Bruyne? Paul Pogba? Jack Grealish? Head over here for a look at the players City could be considering, just how it might be financed, and who is likely to be leaving the club to make room.

Carroll out for Northern Ireland

PA

Northern Ireland suffer an injury setback ahead of their match against Romania on Saturday, as first choice goalkeeper Roy Carroll has been ruled out.

The former Manchester United keeper, now with Notts County, has been suffering from abdominal pain.

That leaves manager Michael O'Neill with a choice between the uncapped Trevor Carson of Cheltenham Town and Michael McGovern of Scottish club Hamilton Academical. McGovern himself has only played three times at international level...

Watson out for Aussies

Getty Images

They are back under way in Jamaica, where Australia have already lost Shane Watson. The tourists are 269-5 on day two of the second Test against West Indies. Steve Smith is still there on 136 not out. Follow updates here.

Rafa battles through

AP

Rafael Nadal made hard work of progressing to the semi-finals of the Stuttgart Open, with the Spaniard struggling to put away Bernard Tomic 6-4 6-7 (5-7) 6-3.

After scraping to victory in two matches which required a total of almost five hours on the grass, the top seed now finds himself in a Saturday contest with Gael Monfils.

Paterson defends Scotland call-ups

PA

Scotland's most-capped player Chris Paterson has defended head coach Vern Cotter's decision to call up the latest batch of tartan imports.

Glasgow back-rower Josh Strauss and Edinburgh prop WP Nel, both born in South Africa, have been named in Cotter's provisional 46-man World Cup squad despite the fact they will only qualify to wear the Dark Blue jersey through residency rules a matter of days before the tournament kicks off in England.

"It's a law that's there and almost everybody uses it," said Paterson. "Whoever takes the field is going to give everything that they have for their country.

"If you want to progress in any sport, or any walk of life, you have got to work hard for it and if you are determined enough and work hard enough then you will give yourself the opportunity."

Get Involved

England under the pump

AFP

New Zealand are on course for an eye-watering score against England at The Oval. They are 307-4 after 41 overs. Follow all the action here.

De Gea to Real Madrid?

AP

Memphis Depay put on the Manchester United shirt for the first time today, after his move from Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven was made official.

But who might be leaving Old Trafford this summer? Will Real Madrid be successful in their pursuit of goalkeeper David De Gea?

Today the Sun newspaper is reporting that De Gea will hand in a transfer request in order to complete a move to Madrid before the Spanish club embark on a pre-season tour of Australia on 13 July.

Will Victor Valdes be United's number one next year?

Yoda v Buddha

.

Right, we know this isn't anything to do with sport - but we're sure that quite a few of you will enjoy taking the Yoda v Buddha quiz produced by our colleagues at BBC Radio 4.

Seriously. There is such a thing. Have a look.

'I want to produce a beautiful boxing style'

British bantamweight Lee Haskins wants to put on a show in his interim IBF world title fight against Japan's Ryosuke Iwasa on Saturday.

Haskins, 32, will have home advantage at the Action Indoor Sports Centre in Bristol, with the winner set for a shot at reigning IBF champion Randy Caballero.

"I will try to knock him out in the middle rounds. That will be more entertaining for the fans," the 25-year-old said.

"I'm nervous but excited and I'm looking forward to winning this fight. I try to do the basic boxing skills and I will try to produce a beautiful boxing style to show the British people."

Copa America highlights

Heading off home shortly? Why not make that hot train/tram journey easier by watching some Copa America highlights? Go on, have a gander.

Ex-cricketer jailed for £100k fraud

BBC

A former cricketer who stole more than £100,000 meant for young players has been jailed for two years.

Andy Hayhurst, 52, of Worsley, Greater Manchester spent the money on lavish restaurants and luxury holidays, Manchester Crown Court was told.

The ex-Lancashire, Somerset and Derbyshire all-rounder admitted the fraud while working as a £50,000-a-year Lancashire Cricket Board director.

Sentencing him, Judge John Potter said it was a "spectacular fall from grace".

McCarthy steps up

Ireland international Tyrone McCarthy will stand in as Hull KR captain against Widnes on Sunday as the Robins anxiously wait to discover the extent of Terry Campese's knee injury.

Campese, who has missed only one game so far in an impressive first season in Super League, has been sent to see a specialist after being injured in last week's defeat by Castleford.

Your European XIs

This Saturday from 16:00 BST on the BBC World Service, Shaka Hislop, Stephane Henchoz and Carsten Ramelow will be discussing their European XIs, made up of the best players from the continent's top leagues.

Reuters

For today, though, we'd like to hear your candidates.

Andrew White: Neuer, Hummels, Ramos, Pique, Alaba, Iniesta, Hazard, Alexis Sanchez, Messi, Suarez, Ronaldo

Damien Luis Green: Courtois, Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Gibbs, Townsend, Sanchez, Toure, Adam, Aguero and Kane.

What?! All of Europe to choose from and Charlie Adam and Andros Townsend are in? You must be pulling our leg Damien...

Which players would make your team? Get involved using #europeanXI, text us on 81111 in the UK only, or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook page.

It's not personal mate, but...

John O'Shea will not allow friendship to get in the way of precious Euro 2016 qualifying points as he prepares to lock horns with Sunderland team-mate Steven Fletcher.

O'Shea said: "Obviously there won't be too much laughing and joking just before the game, but afterwards, it will be the same. You shake hands and you get on with things whatever the result was.

"But look, you know the player, obviously you get on very well with the player, but ultimately, you want to beat him, that's it."

Wales v Belgium (19:45 BST)

In case you hadn't heard, there is a pretty big game on at the Cardiff City Stadium this evening. 

Paul Dummett won't be there, but the Newcastle defender is still passing on his best to Wales, who face Belgium in a 19:45 BST kick-off.

And if you haven't already, head over here to read our preview of the match - midfielder Aaron Ramsey's calling it the country's biggest since 2002. 

Hamilton's injuries 'not life-threatening'

Pacemaker

We have an update from the crash in the Senior TT race in the Isle of Man where Jamie Hamilton's injuries have been described as "serious, but not life-threatening".

The race was red-flagged after the 24-year-old came off his bike at one of the fastest parts of the 37-mile course.

Clerk of the Course Gary Thompson said the Northern Irishman was taken to hospital by air ambulance where he is being treated.

Slick Gayle

BBC

I can't decide which is better on this video, Chris Gayle's trousers or his golf skills.

Wondering what I'm on about? Click here.

Your European XIs

Today we've been asking  who you would pick in a team made up of the best players in Europe this season.  

Getty Images

Buffon, Alves, Bonucci, Silva, Marcelo, Busquets, Iniesta, Pogba, Messi, Suarez, Ronaldo

Nabil, London

Which players would make your team? Get involved using #europeanXI on Twitter, text us on 81111 in the UK only, or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Wilshere 'won't change'

Getty Images

Arsenal and England midfielder Jack Wilshere says he will continue with his all-action displays despite considering a calmer approach to matches following a string of injuries.

During his recovery period Wilshere, whose career has been plagued by persistent injuries, thought about adapting his style following suggestions it would help avoid similar knocks.

"You look at the best dribblers in the world like Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta, and when they run with the ball the ball's always close to them," said Wilshere.

"I can work on that. But I definitely won't be changing my game."

Man United complete Depay signing

EPA

And here's what Manchester United's manager Louis van Gaal has had to say on the club's new forward Memphis Depay, who has signed a four-year deal.

"I know Memphis well from our time working together in the Netherlands national team. He is a young versatile player who has the ability to play in a number of different positions.

"It will take time for Memphis to get used to the rhythm of the Premier League but I have no doubt that he has the potential to become a great footballer for this club and he is at the right club to continue the good work he has done so far."

Wise words

AFP

"We will enhance our advantages and improve our shortcomings."

Not our words, but those of Luiz Felipe Scolari who has replaced Marcello Lippi at Chinese champions Guangzhou Evergrande.

Big Phil's a bit of a philosopher on the sly.

Man United complete Depay signing

EPA

Here's Memphis Depay on what the move to Manchester United means to him: "This is a dream come true for me. To play for the biggest club in the world and also to have the chance to work with someone who I believe is the best manager in the world, Louis van Gaal."

That's a good start from the youngster, no harm in praising the boss on your first day.

Anderson flies home

Getty Images

New Zealand all-rounder Corey Anderson has been ruled out of the remainder of the tour of England with a back injury.

The 24-year-old suffered a stress-related injury to his back during the first Test at Lord's and will now return home.

Depay completes Man United move

Manchester United agreed a deal to sign 21-year-old forward Memphis Depay back in May but today is the day it becomes official...

Who is this Depay chap you ask? Head over here for everything you need to know. 

New signing for Cas

Switching codes for a moment, Castleford Tigers have signed prop Gadwin Springer from Catalans Dragons on a two-and-a-half year deal.

Lomu warns England

PA

Jonah Lomu has been writing about England's World Cup chances on kicca.com, and he reckons Stuart Lancaster's side will have lots of pressure on their shoulders.

"They will be at home playing in front of their families, friends and peers," said Lomu. "That can definitely work against you because it can get so emotional. Sometimes you can be overzealous and overhyped and you end up playing the game the night before in your head."

More injury woe for Ribery

AFP

Bayern Munich say winger Franck Ribery's ankle injury has failed to respond to treatment and that his right foot has been immobilized.

The Bundesliga champions declined to reveal other details about the injury or further treatment, and did not give any estimate for the Frenchman's return.

Ribery has not played since injuring the ankle in March in the Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk.

Cricket

New Zealand are piling on the runs against England, reaching 165-2 after 25 overs. Eoin Morgan's men have called for Joe Root. Over by over coverage is here.

Konta fails to make final four

BBC

BBC Sport's Delyth Lloyd: "Johanna Konta has been knocked out of the Nottingham Open. The British number two lost her quarter-final to Monica Niculescu of Romania in three sets, 2-6 6-2 2-6."

Hamilton crash halts Senior TT race

Press Eye

The Senior TT has been stopped after Northern Irish rider Jamie Hamilton came off his bike on one of the quickest parts of the Mountain Course.

The Isle of Man event's main and final race was red-flagged after the incident on the Cronk Y Voddy straight at the 11th Milestone on the second lap.

Organisers said the Ballyclare man has been taken to hospital by helicopter but his condition was "not yet known".

One eye witness said his bike "disintegrated in a big fireball".

Get Involved

Good work so far, guys...

Who's this keeper Liverpool have signed?

PA

Earlier today, Liverpool announced the signing of goalkeeper Adam Bogdan from Bolton on a free transfer. So what will the Hungarian offer the Reds?

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Marc Iles of The Bolton News says: "Adam's biggest strength is handling, coming out to take crosses and adding an air of calm to the back four.

"He has developed a reputation as a penalty specialist as well, employing some of the mind games that Liverpool fans will recognise to deny the likes of Wayne Rooney and Jordi Gomez in the last couple of years."

Follow this link if you want to know more about Bogdan and his penchant for politics talk.

Your European XIs

Reuters

Today we've been asking you who would pick in a team made up of the best players in Europe this season.

Jordan: Courtois, Dani Alves, Mascherano, Chiellini, Azpilicueta, James Rodriguez, Matic, Schweinsteiger, Hazard, Messi, Ronaldo.

You can send in your selections using #europeanXI on Twitter, text us on 81111 in the UK only, or post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

And on Saturday, there is a special programme on the BBC World Service from 16:00 BST, when Shaka Hislop, Stephane Henchoz and Carsten Ramelow will do the same.

Nibali takes control

AFP

Tour de France winner Vincenzo Nibali of Italy stormed into the overall lead in the Criterium du Dauphine with a blistering display of pace on the sixth stage on Friday.

Nibali, more than a minute and a half behind previous leader Tejay Van Garderen at the start of the stage, impressed to finish second behind Rui Costa of Portugal and claim the race leader's yellow jersey.

Richards prepares to leave City

AFP

Micah Richards has spoken of his deep affection for Manchester City as his time at the club comes to an end.

The 26-year-old defender is out of contract at the Etihad Stadium this summer and has been linked with Aston Villa.

Richards wrote on Instagram: "I just wanted to thank the Man City fans for the amazing support they've given me over the years.

"I joined City when I was 14 and have been part of a brilliant period in the club's history - winning our first league title in 44 years, winning the FA Cup, playing in the Champions League."

Athletics

Getty Images

Fresh doubt has been cast on assurances double Olympic champion Mo Farah says he was given by Alberto Salazar about his links to Mary Slaney, who failed a drugs test in 1996.

More evidence has emerged that Salazar was coaching the American runner when she tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone.

More here on this BBC story, which follows a Panorama investigation into Salazar.

Salazar denies being involved in doping, while there there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing on Farah's part.

Get involved

Just a little reminder that on Saturday, from 16:00 BST on the BBC World Service, Shaka Hislop, Stephane Henchoz and Carsten Ramelow will be discussing their European XIs, made up of the best players from the continent's top leagues.

For today, though, we'd like to hear your candidates. Which players would make your team? Get involved using #europeanXI, text us on 81111 in the UK only, or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Woods 'is a lost guy'

BBC Radio 5 live

Reuters

Another guest on the Friday Sports Panel was golfer Mel Reid, who admitted to being sad at the decline of Tiger Woods.

"It's really sad to see him like this, it's not nice," she said. "In my opinion I think a lot of it is down to his personal life. I think he's got a lot of issues he needs to sort out. He's become very lost in his golf game. It's a shame to see the way he is now. He was so dominant, so powerful, so strong but everyone is human. Sport does have its ups and downs but I think he's a very lost guy and it's not nice to see."

Swimming 'helped me as a disabled person'

Getty Images

Swimmer Sascha Kindred was a guest on the Friday Sports Panel on 5 live earlier, and he admitted to being concerned at stats which show his sport to be suffering from a sharp drop in participation.

"I'm very passionate about it and I try and encourage as many people to take up the sport as possible. Whether it's just to do it as recreation or more elite like I'm doing," he said. "When I started it wasn't about being an athlete it was just feeling that weightlessness and freedom and it definitely help me as a disabled person with my disability.

"I train eight times a week and when I'm there in the morning at a public session, you get people that are 20, 25 but also 80, 85. It's an inspiration for me to see people in their later years. Hopefully more people will take to that and be involved in swimming."

Cricket

Phil Dawkes is still steering the good ship cricket, if you want to check up on the score in the second one-day international between England and New Zealand.

The Black Caps are 79-1 after 11 overs. Brendon McCullum's the man dismissed.

Ibrahimovic to AC Milan?

Reuters

Is Paris St-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic about to make a return to AC Milan? Well, in a word, no.

"You never know what will happen in football, but at the moment it doesn't look like that," says the Sweden international. "It's the media blowing it up and talking a lot, but there's nothing behind it.

"I'm happy at PSG, we made a magical year, we won everything we could win and made the quarter-finals of the Champions League. I'm a PSG player and I have one year left."

Football

Reuters

Martin O'Neill says it is up to Robbie Keane whether he feels he can play for the Republic of Ireland against Scotland in their European Championship qualifier in Dublin tomorrow.

Another cousin of Keane's has died after a sewer accident earlier this week. Stephen Harris, 34, had been in a critical condition in hospital after the accident that claimed the life of his brother Alan Harris, but died on Friday morning.

Team-mate John O'Shea replaced the LA Galaxy striker at this afternoon's press conference ahead of the pivotal European qualifier against Scotland in Dublin tomorrow.

O'Neill: "He's not feeling great, I must admit. He's quite down at the moment. I am hoping he will come round and if he feels he wants to participate in the game tomorrow it will be entirely his decision."

Football

AP

Chris Baird says Northern Ireland can "see the finishing line" as they attempt to book their place at a first ever European Championship finals.

Michael O'Neill's side have won four of their first five games and are one point behind Group F leaders Romania, who visit Windsor Park on Saturday.

"It's working out for us... the right result on Saturday puts us in a phenomenal position," said Baird.

Women's World Cup

EPA

Striker Fran Kirby says England will use their tactical nous to exploit Mexico's weaknesses in Saturday's Group F match at the Women's World Cup.

Mark Sampson's side were beaten 1-0 by France in their opening game of the tournament in Canada after opting for a 4-1-4-1 formation that drew a blank against Les Bleus.

"Mark would have known for a long time what system he wants to play against Mexico," Kirby told thefa.com. "The coaches have been doing loads of work on all three Group F opponents ever since we were drawn against them.

"They have looked at what Mexico are good at, what Colombia are good at, what they are not so good at, what their weaknesses are, and they pick players to suit that game."

Remember to follow coverage of that game on the BBC.

On this day

Where were you on this day in 2010? Rob Green can probably remember - he was in goal for England against the USA in his side's opening match of the World Cup...

Getty Images

Alexis Sanchez Uncovered

AFP

You don't have to be an Arsenal fan to enjoy Alexis Sanchez's football skills. And you don't need to support the Gunners to enjoy a special Football Focus documentary which speaks exclusively to Sanchez and travels to Chile to meet those who influenced the striker most.

Link? Here you go.

Friday Sports Panel

BBC Radio 5 live

Swimmer Sascha Kindred, golfer Mel Reid and gymnast Lisa Mason are the guests on BBC Radio 5 live's Friday Sports Panel, which is under way. Listen live now.

Russian records 17 on one hole

Getty Images

How about this for a bad day on the golf course?

Andrey Pavlov scored a nightmare 17 on one hole at the Austria Open - the second worst in European Tour history.

The Russian, who started the day six shots off the lead, found the water six times on the par-five first hole at the Diamond Country Club in Atzenbrugg.

And what's the worst ever on the European Tour we hear you cry? Philippe Porquier heads the list with 20 at the 1978 French Open.

'Whitehead can shine in NRL'

England coach Steve McNamara is tipping Elliott Whitehead to become the next Super League player to take the NRL by storm.

The 25-year-old second rower, who was given his England debut by McNamara in the 2014 Four Nations Series, will join a host of his international team-mates down under next season after signing a two-year deal with Canberra Raiders.

"I've had a chat with Elliott about his move and I think it's good for him," McNamara said. "It will be a challenge for him, as it is for every player, but he's got elements to his game that will be really good and will improve in the NRL. I think he'll stand out."

Your European XIs

Getty Images

What do you make of Sergio Ramos? Is Thiago Silva over-rated? Is Javier Mascherano the key to Barcelona's success? Roy Hodgson seems to think so, but what about you?

Tomorrow from 16:00 BST on the BBC World Service Shaka Hislop, Stephane Henchoz and Carsten Ramelow will be discussing their European XIs, made up of the best players from the continent's top leagues.

For today, though, we'd like to hear your candidates. Which players would make your team? Get involved using #bbcsportsday, text us on 81111 in the UK only, or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Get Involved

Sporting clangers: Man Utd signing Bebe! Surely the biggest clanger in the history of the Premier League?

Simon in Ashton Under Lyne.

Kiss it all better

ABC

You're one of the biggest stars in basketball, the sixth-highest earner in world sport, and you suffer a painful collision with a camera at the side of the court.

Stitches to your head? Check. Wounded ego? Possibly. Kiss from your mum? Even LeBron James wouldn't be embarrassed.

"I was just hoping I wasn't bleeding but obviously the camera cut me pretty bad," said James as his Cleveland Cavaliers side were beaten 103-82 by Golden State Warriors in game four of the NBA finals.

The series is now tied at 2-2, with game five to come at 05:00 BST on Monday.

Interpol suspends Fifa programme

Interpol has suspended a joint anti-match-fixing programme with Fifa over allegations of corruption against the football governing body.

The international police agency is freezing the €20 million (£14m) donated by Fifa in 2011 for the programme. The 10-year "Integrity in Sport" agreement was intended to combat match-fixing and illegal gambling.

Fifa is under investigation by authorities in the US and Switzerland for alleged bribery and corruption.

A spokesperson for Fifa told the BBC that the organisation was "disappointed" by the decision.

Starting now

Here are the teams which will take to the field at The Oval:

England: Alex Hales, Jason Roy, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan (capt), Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (wkt), Sam Billings, Adil Rashid, Chris Jordan, Liam Plunkett, Steven Finn.

New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Brendon McCullum (capt), Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Grant Elliott, Mitchell Santner, Luke Ronchi (wkt), Nathan McCullum, Tim Southee, Mitchell McClenaghan, Trent Boult.

Cricket

Getty Images

England have got New Zealand running scared. The Kiwis have won the toss and will bat first in the second ODI which is just about to get under way at The Oval.

They clearly don't want to have to chase more than 400 again.

Or maybe they just fancied a bat. More likely, eh? Anyway, Phil Dawkes is your man for that one.

Help from the family

Reuters

Eniola Aluko is doing a regular column for this very website during the Women's World Cup, and she admits she has called on the support of her brother Sone following the team's opening defeat to France.

"Some people may have watched the defeat by France and wondered why we weren't more attacking, but when I spoke to my brother Sone, who plays for Hull City, it was reassuring to know he appreciates the defensive side of the game, especially from a striker's point of view," said Eniola.

"Yes, we lost 1-0 and we had a game plan where I had to sacrifice some of what I like to do as a forward, but the measure of success for someone in my position is not always scoring goals or getting assists. You also have to do a job for the team."

Read the full column here.

Isle of Man TT

Ivan Lintin clinched his first Isle of Man TT win with victory in the three-lap Lightweight race for Supertwins.

The Lincolnshire rider won by 3.8 seconds from Hampshire's James Hillier, who had the consolation of setting a 120.848mph lap record in Friday's race. Kawasaki-mounted Lintin was 38 seconds inside the previous race record time.

Do you fancy a game of floorball?

Getty Images

Would you consider chess and bridge to be sports? What about floorball? Flying disc? Or tug of war?

Well, whatever your view, you might be watching them in the 2020 Olympics, because the pursuits above are among 26 sports to apply for inclusion in the Tokyo Games.

Head over here for more info, including more on exactly what floorball actually is...

Harry Kane to Manchester United?

Getty Images

One transfer speculation story that has been doing the rounds today is Harry Kane to Manchester United.

Here's the latest on the Tottenham forward from BBC Sport's Simon Stone: "Manchester United are interested in Harry Kane but at this stage it must be stressed it is nothing more than an interest.

"There has been no bid, nothing is imminent, United are continuing to look at other options and Tottenham have certainly not given any indication they would be willing to sell.

"However, it is known that manager Louis van Gaal is in the market for a striker and if United were given any encouragement, I am sure they would push for it."

Your sporting clangers

Getty Images

The Clangers are making their return to our television screens today, so we're asking for your examples of sporting clangers. Join in by using #sportingclangers on Twitter, text to 81111 or post on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Tim Stubbs: Robert Pires and Thierry Henry v Man City 2005 trying to copy Cryuff & Olsen's '82 pass, pass, tap-in penalty v Helmond for Ajax. Laughable.

Arsenal charged by FA

More on the news Arsenal have been charged by the Football Association for allegedly breaching regulations on agents.

In May 2014, Sunderland were fined £100,000 and warned over their future conduct after admitting breaching the regulations.

Meanwhile, in February of this year, Championship club Brighton were fined £90,000 for the same offence.

Arsenal charged by FA

More on the news Arsenal have been charged by the Football Association for allegedly breaching regulations on agents.

Chambers, 20, joined the Gunners from Southampton in a deal worth about £16m in July of last year.

The FA say Arsenal have until 26 June to respond to the charge, after the Premier League club requested more time.

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

The Football Association charges Arsenal with allegedly breaching football agents regulations over the transfer of Calum Chambers from Southampton.

Lunchtime news

As you'll be settling down to your lunch right about now, here's a reminder of the biggest stories of the day so far.

Top stories: Former Queens Park Rangers midfield Adel Taraabtsigns for Portuguese champions Benfica on a free transfer.

Liverpool sign goalkeeper Adam Bogdan from Bolton Wanderers, on a free transfer.

Top feature: England forward Eni Alukoreflects on defeat by France, the benefits of a football family and looks ahead to England's second World Cup group match against Mexico on Saturday.

Top video: Have you seen a more exciting match than this? Ivory Coast and Thailand play out a five-goal thriller at the women's tournament in Canada.

Co-op mode or winner stays on?

Pocho22Lavezzi

How do players unwind at major international tournaments? We're guessing Argentina's Angel Di Maria and Ezequiel Lavezzi aren't the only ones to enjoy the odd game of Fifa...

They're over in Chile for the Copa America, which got under way last night as the hosts beat Ecuador 2-0. Apparently the match they're playing is the Rosario derby, between Rosario Central and Newell's Old Boys, but really, talk about a grainy photo.

And for your handy guide to this year's tournament, head over here.

Sports apply for Olympic Games inclusion

Snooker, chess, bridge and tug of war are among 26 sports to have applied for inclusion in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Baseball and softball has also applied, as has squash, after they were the sports to miss out when wrestling was reinstated by the IOC in 2013.

Squash will be hoping to be included for the first time after also missing out to golf and rugby sevens to be added to the 2016 Games while baseball and softball, popular in Japan, is bidding to return for the first time since 2008.

The Tokyo 2020 Additional Event Programme Panel will now narrow the 26 applicants down to a shortlist to be announced on June 22, with a final decision made by the IOC in August next year.

Cricket coming up

There's plenty of domestic T20 cricket for you to enjoy tonight. Below are all the fixtures, and you can enjoy live commentary here.

BBC

#sportingclangers - 'o' dear!

BBC

Is it just us or does Marc Newsham have a look of Ant and Dec? You know which one we mean...

Here's a corker from our colleague at BBC Radio Lincolnshire, Rob Makepeace: "Conference North side Gainsborough Trinity announce the signing of striker Marc Newsham from local rivals Boston United. He does the traditional holding the scarf pose - only problem is the club's name is spelt wrong!"

Taraabt joins Benfica

Benfica

Adel Taraabt signs for Benfica on a free transfer after being released by Queens Park Rangers.

The 26-year-old attacking midfielder joins the Portuguese champions on a five-year deal.

Taraabt last played for QPR in March, and back in October then-manager Harry Redknapp claimed the Moroccan was "three stone overweight" and "not fit to play football".

Territories to miss Royal Ascot

Frank Keogh

BBC Sport

"The 2,000 Guineas runner-up Territories will miss an intended rematch with winner Gleneagles at Royal Ascot on Tuesday.

"Territories, trained by Andre Fabre for owners Godolphin, has been ruled out of the St James's Palace Stakes on the meeting's opening day with a minor setback.

"The colt is likely return in France next month while Fabre should still be represented in Tuesday's one-mile feature race by French Guineas winner Make Believe."

Robson signs new Cas deal

SWPIX

Castleford winger Ash Robson has signed a new two-year contract.

The 19-year-old made his Super League debut in April, scoring the winning try against Salford Red Devils.

"Ash has proved that he is going to be an excellent player in the future, both at full-back and on the wing," said coach Daryl Powell.

Cricket

Freelance cricket journalist Freddie Wilde: "The Caribbean Premier League are planning three or four matches next season to be played in Florida."

Will cricket ever take off in the USA?

Raheem Sterling to Man City?

Getty Images

Here's a quick word on the latest Raheem Sterling to Manchester City news - with the Daily Mail reporting that City will be making a second bid for the Liverpool forward.

In case you missed it, City have already had a bid in the region of £25m rejected by the Reds. But surely that won't deter them?

As City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak put it earlier this week, the club are looking to sign "high-quality individuals" who can take them to the "next level", this summer.

Get Involved

Ah, Gigglebiz. A top, top programme. Funny even to adults.

Mr Mulgrew in tip-top shape

PA

Charlie Mulgrew insists he is in shape to start Scotland's Euro 2016 qualifier against Republic of Ireland following a long spell out through injury.

The 29-year-old managed two appearances as a second-half substitute for Celtic in May after damaging a hamstring tendon in early December. He then came through 90 minutes of last week's friendly with Qatar.

"I'm ready to play if called upon," said Mulgrew. "I'm glad to be back."

Latest on Salazar

BBC Sport's Colin Patterson: "UK Athletics say they hope to conclude a review looking into the high performance system surrounding Mo Farah by the first week of August. The BBC's Panorama programme accused Farah's coach, Alberto Salazar, of practising doping techniques with other athletes - allegations he strenuously denies.

"There is no suggestion that Farah himself has been involved in doping. Salazar is an "unpaid consultant" for UK Athletics, and they've promised their review will be "robust"."

Your sporting clangers

BBC

Mbichire: Lewis Hamilton pulling into a McLaren pit-stop in Malaysia after moving to Mercedes...

"I don't know how that happened," Hamilton said, back in 2013. "The teams look so similar. I have been stopping in that pit box for years." Watch the footage here.

Join in by using #sportingclangers on Twitter, text to 81111 or post on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Why have we dropped in a Major Clanger?!

Just landing on this page and wondering what that pink character is? Where've you been all morning. It's a Clanger, star of a children's television show making a triumphant return to CBeebies. To mark the moment, we're asking for your best sporting clangers. See where we're going with this?

The Clangers

Hello, old chap...

A story neck and crop above all others

Getty Images

You heard the story about Gazza and the ostrich? I shouldn't have to sell this one any more than that...

BOA upset that journalist is denied entry

British Olympic Association officials say they are "extremely disappointed" by the decision by the Baku European Games organising committee to bar entry to a British sports journalist.

The Guardian's Owen Gibson was told three hours before his flight on Thursday that he would be denied entry to Azerbaijan for the event, which runs until June 29.

Gibson had written a series of articles which were critical of the Azerbaijani government's recent human rights record.

In a statement to the newspaper, BOA chief executive Bill Sweeney said: "We reiterate that the principles of the Olympic Charter are to be upheld throughout the games, including a media environment that allows for full and free reporting of the European Games."

Shakib leads Bangladesh fightback

AFP

Rain has once again stopped play in Bangladesh, where the hosts have fought back against India on day three of a weather-ruined one-off Test.

India have fallen from 424-3 to 462-6 in the game's first innings, with Murali Vijay finally out for a patiently-compiled 150. Ajinkya Rahane fell two short of a hundred as Shakib took four wickets. Full scorecard here.

Update on injured athlete

A teenage synchronised swimmer from Austria who was hit by a shuttle bus at the European Games in Azerbaijan is being kept in an induced coma after lengthy surgery, a Vienna hospital said on Friday.

"Vanessa Sahinovic suffered many fractures and more surgery will be necessary," hospital spokesman Christoph Mierau said, adding the 15-year-old Austrian's injuries were not life-threatening.

There was no immediate update on whether Sahinovic was expected to make a full recovery.

Your sporting clangers

Getty Images

The Clangers are making their return to our television screens today, so we're asking for your examples of sporting clangers. Join in by using #sportingclangers on Twitter, text to 81111 or post on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Ben Clark: Peter Enckleman letting a throw-in from his own Aston Villa teammate into the goal against Birmingham!

And for more bizarre own goals take a look at this article from when the internet was made of paper, 13 years ago. Not all of them are goalkeepers!

The time when women's football was banned

Did you know that women's football matches once attracted bigger crowds than most men's games - sometimes more than 50,000?

But then the women's game was effectively banned, with the FA at the time saying the game of football is "quite unsuitable for females".

Astonishing, isn't it? The team at Newsbeat have looked into this story from the 1920s, and unearthed the 'Raheem Sterling of her day' who was also a smoker - her wages being supplemented by packets of Woodbine cigarettes.

Want more? Of course you do.

Your name in lights (well, some of them)

You, the Sportsday readers, were fantastic at coming up with sport and TV/movie lookalikes yesterday. So much so, we did a separate piece on it where we collated the best. Have a gander.

BBC

Schneiderlin for Man United?

PA

Roberto Firmino, Gareth Bale, Jackson Martinez? Forget about Raheem Sterling and Manchester City for a minute, just who are Manchester United going to sign?

Well, it's Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin, according to local paper the Manchester Evening News. They say manager Louis van Gaal is looking to sign the Frenchman as support for Michel Carrick in defensive midfield.

Plenty more gossip for you over here, by the way.

Hull starts well in New York

Getty Images

More golf for you... English teenager Charley Hull is two shots off the lead in a tie for third after day one of the Women's PGA Championship - the year's second major.

The 19-year-old, from Kettering, shot eight birdies in a five-under 68 at the Westchester Country Club in New York.

South Korea's Jenny Shin leads by one from 17-year-old sponsor's invite Brooke Henderson of Canada, who dropped her only shot at her final hole.

Palmer 'scared' by injury threat

Getty Images

Jason Palmer says he is "scared" to even contemplate the chance injury may force him out of next week's US Open.

Palmer, 30, only managed 14 holes in his first round at the Lyoness Open in Austria on Thursday before a wrist problem was "too painful to continue".

But the Leicestershire professional said he was determined to play in his first major.

"I will be doing whatever I can to get the wrist right and get some proper diagnosis," he told BBC Radio Leicester. "But I'm just a bit scared."

Get Involved

Want to know more about the CBeebies remake of the Clangers? Head on over to here.

Happy Birthday, fellas

Getty Images

Hopefully we're not too late with this, but happy birthday to goalkeeping legend Pat Jennings who turns 70 today.

There are also celebrations for cricketers Javed Miandad (58) and Terry Alderman (59) while Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho is 23 today. He was born in 1992!

Wilson eyes Europe

Staying in Wales, new head coach Danny Wilson hopes to lead Cardiff Blues up the Pro12 table and into the European Champions Cup.

"In the long term, climbing the league and, ultimately, getting back into European rugby has to be a goal for the region," said Wilson. "Where and when that happens is something we need to do and make assessments from getting in the door."

Your sporting clangers

The Clangers are making their return to our television screens today, so we're asking for your examples of sporting clangers. Join in by using #sportingclangers on Twitter, text to 81111 or post on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

BBC

He almost did, Kofi - watch here as the Dutchman just realises his mistake in time.

Giggs or Bale?

Messi or Ronaldo? Best or Charlton? Bergkamp or Henry?

In the valleys it's all about Giggs or Bale, and Dafydd Pritchard, of BBC Wales Sport, has compared the two.

Former Manchester United and Barcelona striker Mark Hughes played alongside and managed Giggs for Wales, and he thinks Bale has done more for the national side, although Giggs was a "great player".

What do you think?

BBC

Best of the headlines

Reuters

I suspect your morning coffee doesn't have an image of boxer Manny Pacquiao on it

It's 10am, one hour into the working day for some - go and grab a brew, you deserve it.

Here are your top headlines to digest while you sup some coffee.

• Liverpool have signed Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper Adam Bogdan on a free transfer.
• The Reds have also turned down a bid of £25m plus add-ons from Manchester City for forward Raheem Sterling.
• Mo Farah says he is feeling more "upbeat" after his coach Alberto Salazar was embroiled in a doping scandal.

Warner unhappy with British comedian

Reuters

Jack Warner has responded to British comedian John Oliver who hired airtime on Trinidad television in order to urge the former Fifa vice-president to reveal everything he knows about alleged corruption at football's crisis-hit world governing body.

Warner said Oliver, the presenter of US show Last Week Tonight, had "embarrassed" the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago in the four-minute comedy address. Warner also criticised CNN TV6, the Caribbean nation's largest private broadcaster, for giving him the platform.

Your sporting clangers

Getty Images

The Clangers are making their return to our television screens today, so we're asking for your examples of sporting clangers. Join in by using #sportingclangers on Twitter, text to 81111 or post on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Mackiemore: Lee Grant's own goal v Wolves last season, trying to punch the ball out and punched it into his own net.

Niall Reid: Aberdeen keeper Jamie Langfield was nicknamed Clangers by his team-mates, due to the amount of clangers he made.

Jamie's clearly not the only goalkeeper to have dropped a few then - and his testimonial with Aberdeen in May, after 10 years with the club, is proof enough that a few errors don't count for all that much in the long run.

Ouch!

Reuters

LeBron James is likely to wake up with a sore head today - but it's not because he had a night out with Chris Gayle (like David Beckham yesterday).

Nope, the NBA star needed stitches in a head wound after colliding with a camera as his Cleveland Cavaliers side were beaten 103-82 by Golden State Warriors in game four of the NBA finals.

Stephen Curry and Andre Iguodala scored 22 points each as the Warriors levelled the best-of-seven series at 2-2.

It's fair to say LeBron has had better days.

Napoli appoint Benitez's replacement

Maurizio Sarri has been appointed Napoli coach, replacing Rafael Benitez who has taken over at Real Madrid.

Sarri, 56, has been in charge of unfashionable Empoli since 2012 and has earned a reputation for attractive attacking football.

Bolt 'ready' for Gatlin

Reuters

Usain Bolt says he is not yet ready for a duel with Justin Gatlin but is looking forward to silencing the confident American in a Beijing sprint "explosion" at the World Championships in August.

While the Jamaican has eased into the season after an injury-disrupted 2014, Gatlin has set the fastest times of the year in both sprints and declared himself the "man to beat".

"Gatlin has been doing a lot of talking, saying a lot of things," Bolt said ahead of Saturday's Diamond League meeting in New York. "He's proved he's running fast times and he's ready. So it should be exciting going into the World Championship.

"I look forward to competing when people talk... because if you don't back it up you look really stupid."

Your sporting clangers

Getty Images

The Clangers are making their return to our television screens today, so we're asking for your examples of sporting clangers. Join in by using #sportingclangers on Twitter, text to 81111 or post on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Ian Kingston: David Steele walking out to bat for the first time at Lord's, takes a wrong turn ending up in men's toilets.

Certainly not the ideal start to your career in international cricket - although it has to be said that Steele didn't make it as far as the urinals.

As he himself explains, he actually just went down one flight of stairs too many on his way from the pavilion, but still copped a fair bit of stick from Dennis Lillee and company for his troubles.

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

Getty Images

Liverpool have signed Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper Adam Bodgan.

The 27-year-old Hungary international has been with Bolton since 2007, and has impressed in recent seasons. He joins on a free transfer.

Riding bikes against laws and convention

AP

If you like your bikes, you might be interested in this tale from Iran where Behnaz Shafiei is working hard to break the status quo in a country which forbids women to ride motorcycles in public.

The 26-year-old has been riding for 15 years and, under the veil of her helmet, is regularly thought to be a man by onlookers. But when the helmet comes off, those same people are left stunned by the reality.

In a country where some conservative clerics denounce the idea of women attending men's sporting events, Shafiei is making bold moves.

You can read more on Behnaz's amazing story here.

Snow Patrol frontman joins NI

BBC

We've all dreamt the dream, but Snow Patrol lead singer Gary Lightbody actually lived it when he was invited to take part in a training session with the Northern Ireland team.

The musician said he had "one of the best days ever" after taking part in a training session with Michael O'Neill's squad ahead of Saturday's vital Euro 2016 qualifier against Romania.

The video is here. Apparently, Lightbody performed well when he wasn't haring off chasing cars. Get it? Never mind.

Smith plunders more runs

AFP

Meanwhile, Steve Smith hit his fifth century in six Tests as Australia reached 258-4 on the opening day of the final Test against West Indies in Jamaica.

Smith is the only man to hit more than 2,000 Test runs in the past two years.

His next opponent? England in the Ashes. Nice.

India pile on the runs

AP

A bit of news from the world of cricket, where India racked up an opening partnership of 283 against Bangladesh in a rain-affected Test in Fatullah. It's day three in the one-off match and the tourists are 423-3 - Vijay is 150 not out, while his fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan has fallen for 173. Full scorecard here.

Injured athlete 'stable'

One of three Austrian synchronised swimmers injured after being in collision with a bus in the athletes' village at the European Games in Baku on Thursday has been described as "stable" following a lengthy operation in Vienna overnight.

Vanessa Sahinovic, the most seriously injured of the athletes who was described as having suffered "multiple broken bones" by a team official, was flown back to the Austrian capital along with Luna Pajer, who suffered an elbow injury.

A third athlete, Verena Breit, was released from hospital with minor injuries following the incident which occurred early on Thursday morning, a day before the opening ceremony which is due to take place at the Olympic Stadium on Friday.

Tribute to Collins

AFP

A woman puts flowers next to a picture of Jerry Collins and his partner in the stadium of Narbonne, France

This is very emotional stuff.

A group of former New Zealand rugby players paid tribute to late All Black Jerry Collins by performing the haka at the side of a French motorway.

Collins, 34, and his wife Alana died in a car accident near a toll booth in Beziers on 5 June, and their 10-week-old baby daughter remains in hospital. Several former All Blacks playing in France performed a traditional Maori war dance in tribute.

Neemia Tialata of Toulouse stood alongside Toulon pair Ali Williams and Chris Masoe as vehicles sped past in the background.

You can watch the amazing video here.

Get involved #sportingclangers

PA

I'll be honest. When one of my, ahem, more experienced colleagues suggested we marked the remake of the Clangers with a Sportsday debate, I had a blank look on my face.

The Clangers, for those not of a certain vintage, was a classic children's television show and it is returning to CBeebies this afternoon. There's a bit more on that here.

But what we want from you is simple - let's be having your #sportingclangers. My money's on Steven Gerrard's name cropping up quite early.

Join in by using #sportingclangers on Twitter, text to 81111 or post to the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Cab-bye?

Reuters

Ex-Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye wants to leave Paris St-Germain to help his chances of playing the Euro 2016 finals on home soil.

Asked by L'Equipe if he was considering staying at PSG where he has only started 13 Ligue 1 games this season, the Frenchman said: "Not really. I know that if I stay, whatever I'll do, nothing will change."

Get Involved

Still, opinion is divided...

Greaves leaves hospital

PA

Here's some belting news to kick off the day. Former England striker Jimmy Greaves is out of hospital as he continues to recover from a stroke.

A post on a Facebook group, written by the people at his official website JimmyGreaves.net, read: "Jimmy has left hospital and entered a rehabilitation unit for the next few weeks. He has improved considerably but there is still a very long way to go. We are still getting lots of people asking how he is on a daily basis. Famous friends and fans alike have all been fantastic.

"Jim wants me to thank everyone for their concern and the love you have all shown him and I'm sure you will all continue to do so. Thanks everyone. Terry."

O'Neill v Strachan

Who can forget that match in Dublin tomorrow tea-time? Will it be Scotland or Republic of Ireland celebrating a famous win and putting pressure on Group D leaders Poland?

BBC

Massive game

Over in Group F, Northern Ireland are eyeing up a tilt at the top table too. If they beat Romania at Windsor Park, they'll be well on their way to France. Shaping up nicely, isn't it?

BBC

On the cusp

Check out this. Wales, yes Wales, could end tonight top of their Euro 2016 qualifying group. They have to beat the best team Belgium have produced in years, but they've already managed to go toe to toe with the Red Devils so far. Why not take it one step further?

BBC

Farah more 'upbeat'

AFP

In the world of athletics, double Olympic champion Mo Farah says he is feeling more "upbeat" after his coach Alberto Salazar was embroiled in a doping scandal.

A BBC investigation alleged that American Salazar, who coaches Farah in the United States, has practised doping techniques with other athletes.

"The past week has been tough, but having had time to reflect, I am feeling much more upbeat," said Farah.

There is no suggestion that Farah himself has been involved in doping, and Salazar denies any wrongdoing.

Get Involved

Conflicting views already, it seems.

Cricket

We'll also be building up to England's second one-day international against New Zealand. Did they really score 400 the other day or am I dreaming? 400? England? 50 overs?

Nah. Surely not.

Last night's action

AP

In the Women's World Cup, two-time champions Germany were held to a draw by Norway in Ottawa while the Netherlands suffered a shock 1-0 defeat against China as Wang Lisi scored a last minute winner.

Hosts Canada played out a goalless draw with New Zealand while Thailand edged to a 3-2 win over Ivory Coast, who now have a goal difference of minus 11 after just two games.

Head on over to the Women's football page to watch lots of video from the World Cup, including Ivory Coast's Ines Nrehy missing an open goal from less than six yards out.

A full catch-up from day six is here.

Last night's action

PA

We'll look ahead to the weekend's football shortly, but first let's reflect on what's gone.

First of all, England Under-21s warmed up for the European Championship by beating 10-man Belarus 1-0 at Oakwell - Ben Gibson getting the only goal.

From Barnsley to Santiago next, where hosts Chile began their quest for a maiden Copa America title with victory over Ecuador.

The value of Sterling rockets

PA

Right then. You're a Premier League manager and you have £30m in your sky rocket. Do you bid for Raheem Sterling?

If you think yes, congratulations... you have the same taste in footballer as Manchester City clearly have.

If you said no, tell us why. Is Raheem not worth the £50m he is valued at by Liverpool? Who presents better value?

You know the drill by now - #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text to 81111 or post to the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Gossip column

PA

And Fridays just wouldn't be the same if you didn't kick them off by delving into the treasure trove that is the BBC Sport gossip column. In there, you will find out that Manchester United are lining up a move for Harry Kane, Liverpool could be in the market for Radamel Falcao and how Andy Carroll could be making a surprise move back to Newcastle.

Get stuck in here.

Back pages

Over in Italy, there are reports that Juventus are getting tired of waiting for Carlos Tevez to commit his future to the Turin club. Sound familiar?

Corriere dello Sport

Back pages

Meanwhile, The Mirror says Newcastle manager Steve McClaren will make Charlie Austin and Saido Berahino his first signings since taking charge of the Magpies. Sounds a decent strikeforce to me.

Mirror

Back pages

And we really should credit The Sun for this headline, above a story in which Slaven Bilic compares returning to West Ham with winning the lottery.

The Sun

Back pages

Grab yourself a coffee while we take a leaf through the back pages of the day's papers.

There's probably only one place to start. And that's with Raheem Sterling, who dominates the back pages - because of this...

Daily Mail

Morning

Nine hours. 540 minutes. Or 32,400 seconds.

If my sketchy maths are correct, we don't have to wait long for the weekend and an opportunity to get to the beer garden/family barbecue/park with the kids (Great British weather permitting, of course!)

Until then, park yourself here. It's sport all the way. And it's live. It's Sportsday live.