Sportsday - football transfer news

1. Chelsea sign Falcao on season loan
2. QPR reject Leicester's £12m Austin bid
3. Man City have FFP restrictions lifted
4. GET INVOLVED #bbcsportsday

So long, farewell

It's time to say goodbye for the weekend.

Sportsday will return bright and early at 08:00 BST on Monday, with all the latest football transfers and gossip, as well as breaking news from the world of sport.

Leeds ready to take on Saints

Friday night's big Super League game sees top of the table Leeds Rhinos host second-placed St Helens.

Leeds are set to give a debut to new signing Mitch Garbutt while fellow front rower Adam Cuthbertson and half-back Danny McGuire, who missed the Challenge Cup win at Hull are back.

St Helens have named the same squad that beat the Widnes Vikings to progress to the Challenge Cup semi-final.

You can hear commentary from Headingley on BBC Radio Leeds and BBC Radio Merseyside.

Essex explain Panesar absence

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Essex coach Paul Grayson has confirmed that Monty Panesar is not being considered for selection because of 'personal reasons'.

Panesar last played first-team cricket for Essex in April, but played for the second XI last week as well as turning out for his old club side in Luton.

This comes before the Ashes start in Cardiff where, six years ago, Panesar helped save the first Test. He last played for England on the 2013-14 Ashes tour.

The left-arm spinner is working through his problems with the Professional Cricketers' Association.

Live T20 Blast action

There's eight T20 Blast matches in play on Friday - including a couple of local contests between Somerset and Gloucestershire, and Lancashire v Yorkshire.

You can follow all the action here.

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Get Involved

You have been offering your thoughts on the news that Chelsea have signed former Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao on loan from Monaco...

Stef Barnes: This is what is wrong with football. Rather than give Patrick Bamford - who scored 20 goals for Middlesbrough last season - a chance, they waste £200k a week on a player that proved he can't hack the Premier League. That is why England are rubbish.

Paul Wroe: I'm so happy Man United didn't renew his loan deal, because now James Wilson will get somewhat a better chance at first-team football next season without Falcao ruining his chances time after time.

Joe Smith: At his peak he's a better player than Diego Costa. He's had one bad season and Costa has had one great one and now everyone's comparing them like it's Messi and Heskey.

Pre season, Tony Pulis style

West Brom

"The West Brom players were up at 5:30 this morning to complete a series of runs up the Alps," according to a post on the club's Instagram account.

Rather them than us.

'Change in mentality needed'

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"Tell me women's football isn't entertaining and I'll point you to West Ham versus Hull City at The Boleyn last season and we could both realistically come to the conclusion the women's game is actually better."

An interesting column, this, in the Sunderland Echo by former Aberdeen, Barnsley and Lincoln goalkeeper David Preece.

You can watch England face Germany in the third-place play off on Saturday from 20:30 BST on BBC Three. The final between Japan and the USA is at 23:30 BST on Sunday on BBC Two.

Reading Ladies sign Wales netballer

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Wales dual sport international Nia Jones has joined Women's Super League 2 side Reading after being overlooked for next month's Netball World Cup.

The 23-year-old was in the Wales netball team at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014, but recently admitted that trying to play both sports had caused "some turbulence".

Jones, who is moving to Reading from Cardiff City, has 24 international caps as a footballer.

Essex v Australia latest

Stephan Shemilt

BBC Sport at Chelmsford

"A touch of drama at Chelmsford and a potential Ashes story as Australia captain Michael Clarke takes a blow to the finger. Immediate thoughts turn to the first Test in Cardiff, but the skipper is batting on and seems to be OK.

"Australia have needed him today, too. Clarke has made 76 from a total of 161-5. Without him, Australia could have looked a little silly."

You can follow the progress of this game here.

Faulkner in drink-driving charge

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Lancashire's James Faulkner is out of Friday's T20 Blast game against Yorkshire after being charged with drink driving.

The Australia all-rounder has been released on bail and will face a court hearing in Manchester on 21 July after he returned a blood alcohol reading of approximately twice the legal limit.

"I can't excuse my actions and understand that I have let people down," said Faulkner, in a statement via Cricket Australia.

"I apologise unreservedly and accept any penalty handed to me by Cricket Australia and the relevant authorities."

Wimbledon: Watson v Williams

It's game, set and match to Novak Djokovic as he beats Bernard Tomic in straight sets.

And now a quick changeover on Centre Court - British number one Heather Watson is up against world number one Serena Williams.

You can follow all the live Wimbledon action here.

Hunt set to join Owls on loan

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Sheffield Wednesday are set to sign Crystal Palace full-back Jack Hunt on a season-long loan deal, BBC Radio Sheffield reports.

Hunt, 24, has never featured for the Eagles since joining from Huddersfield in August 2013 and spent time on loan at Nottingham Forest and Rotherham last season.

The BBC also understands that the Owls are close to signing Dutch midfielder Demy De Zeeuw, 32, who is currently a free agent.

Get Involved

We've been asking which musicians you would like to have in charge of your team.

Mark Jackson: Mark Knopfler at Newcastle - so he can stand playing Local Hero live as the teams run out.

Aquelious: The Black Eyed Peas should manage Man United so we can have some Fergie time again.

Radio WDON: It'd have to be Mr Grohl and the Foo Fighters so we can take each game "One by One".

Davies wants Solheim Cup slot

AP

Veteran Laura Davies remains confident that she can earn a place at this year's Solheim Cup at the age of 51.

The former world number one is outside the top eight automatic qualifiers but captain Carin Koch also has four wildcard selections.

"I think I'm good enough to be among the top 12 players in Europe but it's all about results and the results aren't good enough at the moment," she said.

"I'm 10th on the points list and I need to be fourth. I'm thinking down the road for the next Solheim Cup as well, I'm not giving up on that at all."

Bristol Rovers boss bemoans wage demands

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Bristol Rovers manager Darrell Clarke has hit out at the unrealistic wage demands of some players as the club prepares for life back in the Football League.

Clarke signed midfielder Cristian Montano on Thursday, but told BBC Radio Bristol: "It's difficult for me because a lot of prices for players are over-inflated, so they are a little out of our bracket.

"Every agent you speak to says £1,500 a week is the starting point, it's ridiculous to be talking those sums of money."

Hollywood smile

This looks a little strange, doesn't it?

Quartet bid to host World Cup

France, Ireland, Italy and South Africa have been confirmed as the four nations who will bid for the right to stage the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

A decision on the host will be made in May 2017.

Get Involved

Tim Stubbs: Which 'musician' should manage Peterborough Utd? Victoria Beckham, obviously! ;-)

Matt Robinson: Talking Heads to chair the LFC transfer committee. That's already taking us on The Road to Nowhere.

Gary Hornsby: Elvis to manage Coventry, both need bringing back from the dead.

Eh, did Coventry not sack Steven 'Elvis' Pressley a few months ago?

British men fall out of contention

Stuart Pollitt

BBC North West Tonight in Berlin

"Great Britain's men face a tough battle to get near the top 10 at the World Championship nears its conclusion.

"With just the combined run and shoot remaining, Nick Woodbridge is the best placed British competitor in 21st. He will start the combined event more than a minute behind the leader, Jiahao Han of China.

"Fellow Brits Jamie Cooke and Joseph Choong are 27th and 28th respectively."

Deeney extends Watford stay

WatfordstrikerTroy Deeneyhas signed a new five-year deal with the Premier League newcomers.

The 27-year-old scored 21 goals as the Hornets finished second to Bournemouth last season to secure a return to the top flight after an eight-year absence.

Kyrgios and Gasquet advance at Wimbledon

AFP

Last year's semi-finalists Milos Raonic and Grigor Dimitrov are out of this year's Wimbledon after losing out on Friday.

Raonic was beaten by Australian Nick Kyrgios 5-7 7-5 7-6 (7-3) 6-3 who avenged his quarter-final loss of 12 months ago with 34 aces.

Frenchman Richard Gasquet defeated Dimitrov 6-3 6-4 6-4 and will meet Kyrgios in the fourth round.

Earlier, fourth seed and French Open champion Stan Wawrinka reached the fourth round after beating Fernando Verdasco 6-4 6-3 6-4.

Follow the latest from Wimbledon via the BBC Sport website.

In-demand Agyei offered Palace trial

AFC Wimbledon's teenage star Daniel Agyei has been given a trial at Premier League side Crystal Palace, reports the Daily Mail.

The 17-year-old has spent this week training at West Ham but Chelsea are also interested and Burnley have offered him a trial.

Dustin Brown: The toast of Wimbledon

BBC Sport's Aimee Lewis has spotted new Wimbledon favourite Dustin Brown hanging around SW19. 

He's due to play Viktor Troicki in the third round on Saturday.

Westley 'had luck on his side'

PA

Essex batsman Tom Westley has admitted he was lucky to make a hundred against Australia in the tour match at Chelmsford.

The 26-year-old made 144 on the second day but told BBC Essex: "I felt for their bowlers. I must have nicked a few through third slip and gully and played and missed.

"But it's nice to have luck on your side - to get another hundred and hopefully I can get a few more."

Listen to BBC Essex commentary on Westley reaching his century

Hamilton fourth in second practice

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Lewis Hamilton was only fourth fastest in second practice at the British Grand Prix as Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg set the pace.

Hamilton, 0.466 seconds slower than Rosberg, complained about the car as both Ferraris also out-paced him.

You can read Andrew Benson's full report from Silverstone here.

On this day

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In 2011, Novak Djokovic beat Spanish top seed Rafael Nadal 6-4 6-1 1-6 6-3 to win the Wimbledon men's title for the first time.

British Championships

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BBC WM has live commentary online on every track and field heat and final over all three days at the British Championships, starting from 19:00 BST on Friday. You can listen via this link.

Can British men match sprint kings?

Britain's leading athletes gather this weekend for their national championships in Birmingham, where a promising group of young sprinters will aim to qualify for next month's World Championships.

But can any of them bridge the gap to the world's best in time to make an impact in Beijing?

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Twenty-two men from nine different countries have racked up 40 times under 10 seconds - the mark that distinguishes true world-class - between them this year.

Of those 40 times, 23 have come from 11 different American athletes, headed by the dominant Justin Gatlin, who has run the two fastest times in the world this year, 9.74 and 9.75 seconds.

Only one has been posted by a British athlete, Adam Gemili doing so last month only to suffer a hamstring injury in the process.

#BBCSportsday

We want to know which musician you'd like to be manage your club.

Tweet us on #bbcsportsday or get involved on the Match of the Day facebook page.

Nick Binns: Dave Grohl [Foo Fighters] for his leading by example, never say die attitude, especially when injured with a broken leg!

Prateek Singh: How about Rihanna at Newcastle? She might find love at a hopeless place.

Alex Townson: Drake to manage Bournemouth - "started from the bottom now we're here".

Copa America clamour

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CNN are reporting that tickets for the Copa America final between hosts Chile and Argentina at the Estadio Nacional in Santiago are selling for as much as $25,000 (£16,000).

Essex v Australia latest

Stephan Shemilt

BBC Sport at Chelmsford

"Hmmmm, not all rosy in the Australia garden. Yes, their bowlers have improved, but now the batsmen aren't taking advantage.

"In losing three wickets for 18 runs, Australia have slipped to 81-4, a lead of 229.

"Somehow, after allowing Australia to bat first, dropping nine catches and only batting with 10 men, Essex aren't out of this game."

Hill agrees new Rangers deal

Queens Park Rangers centre-back Clint Hill has signed a new one-year deal following their relegation from the Premier League.

Hill, 36, has made 170 appearances for Rangers and said: "Everyone knows what QPR means to me and I am delighted to be part of the new philosophy that's filtering through the club."

Wolves complete Coady signing

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Wolves have signed Huddersfield Town midfielder Conor Coadyfor an undisclosed fee believed to be in the region of £2m.

The 22-year-old former Liverpool trainee has signed a three-year deal.

Rams sign Ince in club record deal

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Derby County have signed Hull City winger Tom Ince for a club record fee, which BBC Radio Derby understands to be around £4.75m.

He scored 11 goals in 18 games while on loan at the Rams last season and his move included an option to buy.

Action continues at Silverstone

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Second practice is in full swing at the British Grand Prix in Silverstone

You can follow the latest from the track via the BBC Sport website.

Tour de Force

BBC Sport's Matt Slater is in Utrecht ahead of the Tour de France Grand Depart.

This year's race begins on Saturday and you can folllow live text commentary of every stage online and listen to radio commentary on BBC 5 live sports extra or online from 14:45 BST

Test of knowledge

A Question of Sport Teaser

BBC

You might remember that we asked (11:52 BST) which five F1 drivers with a seven-letter surname have won the British Grand Prix since 1970?

The answers? Herbert, Mansell, Montoya, Rosberg and Stewart.

Adams backs Coe for IAAF post

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World and Olympic shot-put champion Valerie Adams, has told BBC Sport she wants Sebastian Coe to be the next president of the sport's governing body, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

Lord Coe is running against former Olympic pole-vault champion Sergey Bubka with the vote due to take place on 19 August.

"My vote's for Sebastian Coe, because I really think that he will do what's best for the sport and for the athletes," she said. "I suppose, for me, it's just finding ways of making sure that we keep our sport alive and every event alive - especially the throwing."

Top tennis stars reveal music tastes

Reuters

Andy Murray might not be a fan of Taylor Swift, as he revealed in his BBC Sport column, but he appears to have a penchant for Ed Sheeran and AC/DC as he revealed when he was asked to pick the tracks that inspire him as part of the BBC's Playlister.

You can also see what tracks the likes of Heather Watson and Petra Kvitova chose.

Essex v Australia latest

Stephan Shemilt

BBC Sport at Chelmsford

PA

"Australia are into their second dig against Essex and captain Michael Clarke is at the crease.

"The skipper, who got a golden duck in the first innings, has played two wonderful pull shots in his unbeaten 19. In the company of Chris Rogers, he has taken his team to 53-1.

"David Warner is the wicket to fall, brilliantly yorked by Jamie Porter for four."

McDowell misses cut in Paris

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Graeme McDowell hopes of winning a third successive French Open title ended on Friday after he missed the cut in Paris.

The 35-year-old was unable to finish his first round on Thursday because of weather delays and, when play resumed, he parred the 18th for an opening 72.

After a short break 35-year-old he resumed, starting at the 10th, but finished with a seven-over-par 78 to leave him well outside the predicted cut.

Mihajlovic wants AC Milan fear factor

EPA

New AC Milan coach Sinisa Mihajlovic says it is time for the club to be feared again.

The Serb became Milan's fourth coach in just over 18 months and was presented alongside club president Silvio Berlusconi on Friday.

"The only way I can win over the fans is hard work," Mihajlovic said.

"Milan have always been a side to be feared and I want that Milan side back. I want my Milan team to instil fear in other teams."

Get Involved

You have been offering your thoughts on the news that Chelsea have signed former Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao on loan from Monaco...

Paul O' Neill: Won't be able to show his face around any top league teams after he flops at Chelsea, this is basically his last chance or we'll see him in the MLS, or China next.

Brandon Sutton: Falcao will do well at Chelsea, better manager, better team and less pressure on him instead of like last season.

Chris Parker: I think he'll do well considering he played with Costa at Atletico and Cuardrado with Colombia.

Ronke Olubunmy: One man's food is another man's poison. He might not delivered good job in Man United but he can still deliver good job at Stamford Bridge.

Contador on Tour challenge

On Saturday, Alberto Contador will start his bid to become the first man since 1998 to win the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France in the same year.

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The Spaniard, 32, is also aiming to become just the third rider to hold all three Grand Tour titles after winning the Vuelta a Espana in August 2014.

No rider has ever won all three Grand Tours in the same calendar year.

But is he ready for the fight?: "In my head I feel motivated. How my body will react is a new challenge."

Get Involved

We asked Deacon Blue frontman Ricky Ross if he fancied managing home town team Dundee United...

The "certain ex-Falkirk" guy Ricky refers to is Ian McCall, who left in March 2005 with the Tannadice side bottom of the Scottish top flight.

Wimbledon latest

EPA

Action is continuing apace at Wimbledon.

Among those on court at the moment are fourth seed and French Open champion Stan Wawrinka, who leads Fernando Verdasco by one set to love, and Milos Raonic, who is up against Australian Nick Kyrgios with the pair tied at one set apiece.

Later on, British number one Heather Watson will face top seed Serena Williams.

You can follow it all via the BBC Sport website.

Welcome, Falcao

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has welcomed new loan signing Radamel Falcao to Stamford Bridge

#BBCSportsday

Which music maestro would you let manage your team?

Let us know on Twitter via #BBCSportsday or on the Match of the Day Facebook page.

Cal S: What about The Kaiser Chiefs managing Kaizer Chiefs?

Legolas: Kanye West to manage Man Utd. Add a bit of flair and arrogance.

Will Thomas: Adele for Spurs. An expert in heartbreak.

Falcao facts

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Radamel Falcao is to return to the Premier League this season with Chelsea, after agreeing a season-long loan.

Here's the Colombia forward's career goal stats:

• River Plate (2004-09) - 90 games, 34 goals
• Porto (2009-11) - 72 games, 62 goals
• Atletico Madrid (2011-13) - 86 games, 68 goals
• Monaco (2013-14) - 20 games, 11 goals
• Manchester United (2014-15) - 29 games, four goals

Stripped for action

BBC Scotland's Chris McLaughlin is at Murray Park to meet former Swindon goakeeper Wes Foderingham, who has signed a three-year deal with Rangers...

On this day

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In 2001, Sol Campbell crossed north London to sign for Arsenal, sparking anger among the Tottenham fans.

BreakingChelsea agree Falcao loan

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Chelsea have confirmed they have agreed a season-long loan deal for Monaco's Radamel Falcao.

The Colombia striker spent last season at Manchester United, where he made 29 appearances, scoring four goals.

He said: "I am very happy to be joining Chelsea and can't wait to start training and help with our aim of retaining the league title and being successful in Europe."

Get Involved

On the back of Kasabian offering their views on Leicester City's sacking of Nigel Pearson, we've been thinking...

If you could have a musician or band manage your team, who would it be and why?

Let us know via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on Match of the Day's Facebook

Essex v Australia latest

Stephan Shemilt

BBC Sport at Chelmsford

"Did you think Mitchell Starc wasn't ready for the Ashes? Think again. The Australia pace bowler has taken 4-25 on the third morning, a huge improvement on his second-day display in total figures of 6-51.

"Essex have been bowled out 414 - a decent effort, especially with Nick Browne not batting because of a finger injury.

"Australia will bat again after lunch with a lead of 138. Captain Michael Clarke, a golden duck in the first innings, will be most keen for time at the crease."

Friday night lights

Simon Stone

BBC Sport

Aston Villa and Manchester United will play a Premier League game on Friday, 14 August 2015.

Friday night football is due to come in as part of the new TV deal, which starts from the 2016-17 season.

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However, a one-off decision has been made to play one game this term due to what the Premier League view as a "unique" set of circumstances.

Sky Sports requested the game be played on the Saturday. But this was rejected by local police due to an English Defence League march, which is planned for the West Midlands on the same evening.

As United have a Champions League qualifier on either the following Tuesday or Wednesday, a Sunday game could not be guaranteed.

Collins signs for Rotherham

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Rotherham have signed experienced defender Danny Collins following his release by Championship rivals Nottingham Forest.

The 34-year-old Wales international only made eight appearances for Forest last season, but Millers boss Steve Evans said: "His references were impeccable in terms of his fitness, hunger and desire.

"It all shone like a beacon of light in the ocean and it attracted me to him."

Where next for Carlton?

Ex-West Ham man Carlton Cole has been on Twitter to update his 128,000 followers about his footballing future....

Wimbledon in numbers

How much do you really know about Wimbledon?

How long is the grass? How big are the tennis balls? And how much colour can players wear on their kits?

This little video from the Guardian explains all...

And you can watch the action live here

National League fixtures released

Chris Brunskill

Gary Brabin's Tranmere will start their first season outside the Football League in 95 years with a home game against Woking in the National League on Saturday, 8 August.

Cheltenham, who were also relegated after a 16-year stay in the Football League, begin at Lincoln City .

Grimsby Town, beaten by Bristol Rovers in May's play-off final, are away at Kidderminster Harriers.

You can see all the fixtures for the season here.

'Arrogant, rude and stubborn'

Colin Paterson

BBC Radio 5 live

Entertainment correspondent Colin Paterson has been at the Nordoff Robbins O2 Silver Clef awards. So far, so normal.

He's been speaking to rock band Kasabian. About the sacking of Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson. Of course he has.

Kasabian singer Tom: "I think it is amazing. He's arrogant, rude and stubborn."

Guitarist Serge: "The board now have to make a huge decision. I can't wait to find out who it is. I'd like Jurgen Klopp. That's not going to happen. So Neil Lennon."

Tom: "It's going to be Neil Lennon, isn't it?"

And as if that exchange wasn't bizarre enough, here's a picture of the gents being interviewed by Peter Andre...

Colin Paterson

Get Involved

Colin Lancaster: Robert Harting, the German discus thrower who won gold at London 2012 and who - when he wins - always rips of his top and jumps over the hurdles that the organisers have just painstakingly laid out for their next race.

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Who is your favourite sporting entertainer? Get involved on #bbcsportsday or on BBC Sport''s Facebook.

Rangers complete Foderingham deal

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We brought you the rumour a little while ago and now it has been confirmed... Rangers have signed former Swindon goalkeeper Wes Foderingham on a three-year deal.

QPR reject Leicester's Charlie Austin bid

Charlie Austin seems to be oblivious to the news that Leicester have put in a bid of £12m for his services.

The QPR striker is currently on honeymoon in Dubai and is tweeting about water parks. 

West Brom set for takeover

The news has finally arrived.....

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West Brom hope to have new owners by the end of the month after granting exclusive negotiations to an unnamed bidder.

Exclusivity grants a bidder sole rights to deal with Baggies owner Jeremy Peace for up to six weeks.

Peace, who owns 77% of the club, has been chairman for 13 years, and said in February he would be willing to sell "if it was right for the club".

Read our developing story here.

Manchester City's FFP restrictions eased

Manchester City have had their restrictions on transfer spending and Champions League squad size lifted after meeting their financial fair play target, say Uefa.

City had their Champions League squad capped at 21 players last year and their spending on new signings last summer restricted to £49m as punishment for breaching FFP rules.

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UEFA said in a statement: "The UEFA CFCB [club financial control body] has lifted a number of restrictions on Manchester City after the club reached certain targets towards break-even compliance as part of the ongoing monitoring of their settlement agreement.

"The club remains under strict monitoring and has still to meet break-even targets and is therefore subject to some limitations in 2016."

Who buys the players at your club?

Wondering how Leicester can make a club-record bid for Charlie Austin despite sacking manager Nigel Pearson?

This fascinating piece in the Guardian explains and sheds some light on who decides which players each Premier League club buys.

BreakingQPR reject Leicester's Austin bid

Simon Stone

BBC Sport

Queens Park Rangers have turned down a £12m bid from Leicester for striker Charlie Austin.

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The 25-year-old still has a year left on his contract but seems certain to leave Loftus Road this summer after QPR's relegation, with the London club understood to be looking for at least £15m.

Newcastle and Crystal Palace have already been heavily linked with Austin, who finished four in the Premier League scoring charts last season with 18, almost half of his club's entire total of 42.

Wiggins pulls out of Stafford event

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Sir Bradley Wiggins has pulled out of Friday's Stafford Grand Prix, which would have marked his return to road racing after breaking cycling's hour record in London last month.

The 35-year-old was initially been part of Team Wiggins squad for the race but his team have confirmed he has a "slight illness".

Rosberg fastest at Silverstone

Nico Rosberg pipped team-mate Lewis Hamilton to set the pace in first practice at the British Grand Prix.

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Rosberg beat championship leader Hamilton's time by just 0.07 seconds.

The German went quickest in the final seconds after missing much of the session because of a loss of hydraulic pressure that stranded his car out on the Silverstone track.

Australia make inroads

Stephan Shemilt

BBC Sport at Chelmsford

"Improvement from the Australia pace bowlers on the third morning at Chelmsford, with two Essex wickets falling.

"Both Ravi Bopara, who completed a century, and Jesse Ryder have gone to Mitchell Marsh, while Mitchell Starc is bowling with greater control than yesterday.

"Off-spinner Nathan Lyon continues to take punishment, though. His 22 overs have cost 136 runs."

Crowd can help England - Strauss

MOD

England cricket director Andrew Strauss has told BBC Sport that Australia go into the Ashes series, which gets underway on Wednesday, as favourites but thinks the home crowds could help England in their battle to regain the Urn.

Strauss is delighted with how England performed in the recent series against New Zealand but says the Ashes is a different challenge and new coach Trevor Bayliss is keen to get started against his home land.

We'll now pause for a few moments to observe the national minute's silence for the victims of last Friday's terrorism attack in Tunisia.

Gudjohnsen moves to China

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Former Barcelona and Chelsea striker Eidur Gudjohnsen has left Bolton to join Chinese Super League side Shijiazhuang Ever Bright.

The 36-year-old Icelandic international's new side are eighth in the standings in their first season in the Chinese top flight.

Test of knowledge

A Question of Sport Teaser

BBC

Since 1970, which five F1 drivers with a seven-letter surname have won the British Grand Prix?

Is it us, or are these getting more difficult?

#bbcsportsday

We're asking for your favourite sporting entertainers on #BBCSportsday and BBC Sport's Facebook.

Anthony Hobson: Michael Jordan, ability to score and win from the most ridiculous positions with such regularity, plus Space Jam!

Thomas Clark: Ronnie O'Sullivan, genius in his field and has great character to entertain!

Ronan McAleenan: Has there been a more entertaining footballer than Jimmy Bullard?

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Dembele wants talks with Pochettino

AP

Mousa Dembele will seek talks with Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino over his future when he reports back for pre-season training in a fortnight, according to the London Evening Standard.

The 27-year-old midfielder has two years left on his contract but is concerned about his role at the club given his lack of playing time under Pochettino last term.

Dembele, who joined from Fulham for £15m in 2012, started just 10 League matches during the 2014-15 campaign.

Action continues at Silverstone

Reuters

Action is continuing at Silverstone with first practice ahead of the British Grand Prix.

Nico Rosberg is fastest and you can follow all of the action via the BBC Sport website. where Jamie Strickland will guide you through all of the twists and turns.

Wolves set to sign midfielder Coady

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Wolves are set to sign Huddersfield Town midfielder Conor Coady, BBC Radio Leeds reports.

The clubs are understood to have agreed a fee in the region of £2m and he is currently undergoing a medical.

Starting out on road to Wembley

Simon Stone

BBC Sport

Penrith had the honour of being the first team drawn in the 2015-16 FA Cup.

Less than five weeks after Arsenal successfully defended the trophy by beating Aston Villa 4-0 at Wembley, the draws for the extra preliminary round and preliminary rounds have been made, involving sides from the ninth and 10th tiers of the English pyramid.

London Bari FC, of the Essex Senior League (away at Long Melford), are amongst those taking part for the first time.

The draws can be found here

Baggies fans kept waiting

West Bromwich Albion were due to make an announcement at 10:30 BST, with talk about a possible takeover looming.

But there's still no announcement, so the Baggies fans are keeping themselves entertained on Twitter.

Essex v Australia

Stephan Shemilt

BBC Sport at Chelmsford

"El scorchio again in Chelmsford, hot enough to melt water. Not the best news for Australia's bowlers, who were below their best against Essex yesterday.

"At the start of this third day, the Aussies were all business, Michael Clarke delivering a very stern team talk.

"We're back under way, Essex have moved on to 300-3, still 262 behind."

Rangers close in on Foderingham

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The Scottish Sun are reporting that Rangers are close to signing former Swindon goalkeeper Wes Foderingham on a free transfer.

#BBCSportsday

After Dustin Brown made everyone (bar Rafael Nadal) smile at Wimbledon on Thursday, we're asking for your favourite sporting entertainers.

Get involved on Twitter on #bbcsportsday or on BBC Sport's Facebook page.

Hoops 501: Valentino Rossi of course! He's ALWAYS enthusiastic, open, funny & interesting in interviews, daring & imaginative in races + huge charisma.

Tahir: Best entertainer? Leo Messi, hands down. The way he moves keeps your jaw pinned to the ground.

Adam Pomphrett: No question about it - Mansour Bahrami

Premiership fixtures released

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Saracens will begin the defence of their Premiership title at home to Sale Sharks on Saturday, 17 October.

Bath, who lost in last season's final, open their campaign at The Rec against Exeter Chiefs, while newly-promoted Worcester start on Friday, 16 October at home to Northampton.

Harlequins face Wasps, Newcastle are at home to Gloucester and Leicester go to London Irish in the other openers.

The Premiership usually begins in September but the 2015-16 campaign will start a month later because of the World Cup being played in England.

Wimbledon 2015: Day five

Day five of Wimbledon is in session. Here's hoping for as much drama and entertainment as Thursday brought us.

BBC Sport's Aimee Lewis has kicked off the live text right here, where you'll also be able to find TV, radio and online coverage.

Tour de France 2015

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Time trials, high winds, cobbles, six-summit finishes, 198 riders, 22 teams, 22 days.

Welcome to the 102nd Tour de France which gets underway on Saturday.

Team Sky's Geraint Thomas has given BBC Sport the lowdown on cycling's most famous race. Click here to find out more.

Pele or smelly?

Yeovil Town

Yeovil Town manager Paul Sturrock has added former Rangers attacker Jamie Burrows to his new-look League Two squad.

A gem of a quote from Sturrock upon the 20-year-old's arrival:

"Unfortunately he broke his ankle early in the season and played very little. A friend of mine gave me the quote 'he is either smelly or Pele' and it will be my job to make sure he is more Pele than smelly."

BBC Sport has spoken to a Yeovil Town representative, who confirmed Burrows does in fact smells of roses.

Ciftci turns down Wigan move

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Dundee United striker Nadir Ciftci has turned down a contract offer from Wigan after the League One club had agreed a transfer fee with the Scottish Premiership side.

The Turkish-born forward, 23, who is entering the final year of his contract, scored 16 goals last season and has also been subject of a rejected £900,000 approach from Celtic.

Bronze up for Golden Ball award

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The heartbreak of a semi-final defeat may still be raw, but England defender Lucy Bronze has something to celebrate.

The 23-year-old full-back has been shortlisted for the Golden Ball - the award given to the best player at the Women's World Cup.

Bronze scored a stunning goal as England beat Norway in the last 16 and also netted in the quarter-final victory over hosts Canada - you can watch her in action here.

The Lionesses were knocked out by a 2-1 semi-final defeat by Japan.

Sevilla agree deal to sign Konoplyanka

EPA

Europa League champions Sevilla are poised to sign Ukraine winger Yevhen Konoplyanka from Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk as they look to strengthen their forward line for next season's Champions League.

The Spanish club said an agreement had been struck with the 25-year-old, who was in the Dnipro side that lost 3-2 to the Spanish side in May's Europa League final, pending a medical and a deal with his club.

Tough day ahead for Britons

Stuart Pollitt

BBC North West Tonight in Berlin

With temperatures reaching the high 30s in Berlin, it will be a tough day for Britain's three men in the final of the World Modern Pentathlon Championships.

After the first swimming discipline, Jamie Cooke lies second, Joseph Choong sixth and Nick Woodbridge 11th.

The next event is fencing before the showjumping and combined run and shoot to finish.

Stuart will be keeping us up to date as the day progresses...

#BBCSportsday or BBC Sport Facebook

Who is your favourite entertainer in sport and why?

Oomar Jaunmohamud: Ronaldinho...an assist with his back? Killer...

Dan Hogg: John Pantsil, obviously. A lap of honour after every match at Craven Cottage. Bless him, he tried hard.

Aditya Balaraman: Dwayne Bravo. Dances after every catch/wicket. Crowd goes nuts.

Send us your entries on Twitter via #bbcsportsday or on BBC Sport Facebook.

Fans help launch new Man City kit

Nice touch from Manchester City.

They've decided to launch their new home kit for the 2015-16 season with the help of some of the people who will wear the shirt in the stands. 

Duff signs new Burnley deal

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Defender Michael Duff has agreed a new one-year deal with Burnley.

The 37-year-old made 21 Barclays Premier League last season but will spend his 12th season with the Turf Moor club in the Championship after relegation.

Happy birthday

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Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel turns 28 today, and will mark the occasion by driving a very fast car around Silverstone in practice for the British Grand Prix.

Also celebrating are Sir Richard Hadlee (64), the former New Zealand all-rounder who was the first man to take 400 Test wickets, India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh (35) and West Ham defender Winston Reid (27).

Latest gossip

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The Daily Express says that Manchester City are set to complete an £8m deal for Aston Villa midfielder Fabian Delph.

The 25-year-old England international is set to agree a long-term contract worth £100,000-per-week.

Get Involved

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As if his remarkable dreadlocks were not enough, Dustin Brown also entertained us all with his staggering display of shot-making to beat Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon on Thursday.

That got us thinking... who are the best sporting entertainers and why?

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

I have respect for Lusitans - Bilic

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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic insists he has "big time" respect for FC Lusitans after he was criticised for sitting out the Europa League qualifying fixture on Thursday evening.

Bilic watched from the stands as academy director Terry Westley oversaw a 3-0 first-leg victory and Lusitans coach Xavi Roura was not happy with Bilic's decision.

"I was thinking about the best way to manage the game and the training camp we have in Ireland," Bilic told the club website.

"I didn't want to disrespect anyone and especially not a football team from Andorra as I respect them big time. I wanted to show respect to Terry as he coached this team and he took them for pre-season in Ireland and knew them all well."

Baitieri signs new Dragons contract

Catalans Dragons forward Jason Baitieri has signed a new two-year contract with the Perpignan-based Super League club.

The Paris-born 26-year-old French international has been a virtual ever-present since joining the Dragons from Sydney Roosters in 2011, although he missed half the season in 2013 with a knee injury.

Anelka to return to Mumbai City

AFP

Former France and Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka will return to Mumbai City FC as the team's marquee player-manager for the second season of the Indian Super League.

The 36-year-old, who also played with Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool, scored two goals for Mumbai in the inaugural eight-team league last year and took on a similar dual role in 2012 for Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua.

Silverstone set for action

It's a sunny morning at Silverstone as we await the start of the British Grand Prix weekend.

First practice gets underway at 10:00 BST and you can follow it all via the BBC Sport website with coverage on Red Button and the BBC Sport website and commentary on 5 Live Sports Extra.

5 Live looks ahead to the Tour de France

Ahead of the start of the Tour de France on Saturday, you can listen to a BeSpoke special from 5 Live, which looks at the chances of favourites Chris Froome, Nairo Quintana, Alberto Contador and defending champion Vincenzo Nibali.

There is also an interview with Britain's Alex Dowsett who looks ahead to his first Tour.

US vice-president to attend World Cup final

AFP

US vice-president Joe Biden and his wife Jill will be part of an American "presidential delegation" to the Women's World Cup final in Canada on Sunday.

Second Lady Jill Biden will lead President Barack Obama's delegation for the final in BC Place Stadium, where the United States play holders Japan in a rematch of the 2011 decider.

"We're honoured to be part of the Women's World Cup Final," the Bidens said in a statement. "The team is a source of pride and unity, and we can't wait to see them represent the United States on the world stage."

Hardaker signs new Leeds deal

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Leeds full-back Zak Hardaker has signed a new four-year deal with the club.

The 23-year-old England international has made 124 appearances for the Rhinos since joining them from Featherstone in 2011.

He was issued with a warning by Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington two years ago after being thrown out of England's World Cup squad and earlier this year was fined and ordered to do 20 hours of voluntary work and attend an anger management course following an arrest for assault.

Sri Lanka overcome early dismissal

AFP

Sri Lanka overcame the early loss of opener Kaushal Silva to reach 85-1 at lunch on the opening day of the third and series-deciding test at Pallekele on Friday.

Pakistan captain Misbah-ul Haq won the toss and sent the hosts in to bat.

Opener Dimuth Karunaratne is on 34 with Upul Tharanga (39) at the other end after left-arm paceman Rahat Ali dismissed Silva for nine.

Latest gossip

Reuters

According to the Daily Mail, Tottenham want Everton midfielder James McCarthy, 24, and could offer the Toffees 28-year-old winger Aaron Lennon or centre-back Younes Kaboul, 29 in return.

Latest gossip

AFP

The Sun reports that Stoke City are interested in signing winger Victor Moses, 24, forward Patrick Bamford, 21, or 19-year-old midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek on loan from Chelsea.

That deal would be in addition to the £8m the Blues have bid for goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, 28.

Latest gossip

Reuters

According to the Daily Mirror, Manchester United will not compromise over their £35m valuation of goalkeeper David De Gea, despite reports in Spain saying the Old Trafford club had lowered their asking price for the 24-year-old to £25m.

Nani to have Fenerbahce medical

EPA

Manchester United winger Nani is to have a medical at Turkish side Fenerbahce after the clubs agreed a 6m Euro (£4.25m) fee.

The 28-year-old Portugal international moved to Old Trafford in 2007 from Sporting Lisbon.

Tributes paid to coach Walsh

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Some sad news from Australia and Phil Walsh, the coach of the Australian Football League's Adelaide Crows, has been found stabbed to death at his home.

South Australia Police officers had been called after a domestic dispute in the early hours of Friday. Mr Walsh, 55, was treated for knife injuries but died at the scene.

Mr Walsh's 26-year-old son has been arrested and charged with murder.

Europa League round-up

A number of Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland clubs were in Europa League action last night too.

Aberdeen drew 1-1 away to Macedonian side Shkendija, while Jason Oswell's injury time strike saw Welsh side Newtown win their first ever match in Europe, beating Valletta of Malta 2-1. Linfield ran out 2-0 winners over NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands.

But Airbus UK and Bala Town were both defeated along with Glentoran, Glenavon and St Johnstone.

Hammers win European opener

PA

West Ham have made a winning start to their Europa League campaign with a 3-0 win over Andorran side Lusitans.

Striker Diafra Sakho scored twice and James Tomkins added a third to put the Hammers in control of the first qualifying-round tie.

They were watched by a capacity crowd of about 35,000, as well as new manager Slaven Bilic, who was in the stands but not in charge.

Friday's back pages

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The Daily Star reports that Manchester United are still keen to sign Everton defender Seamus Coleman and are willing to offer the Goodison Park club Jonny Evans as part of the deal.

Friday's back pages

Independnet

The Independent's back page features German tennis player Dustin Brown, the conqueror of Rafael Nadal in the second round at Wimbledon on Thursday.

It's not hard to see why his Twitter name is @DreddyTennis.

Friday's back pages

Daily Mirror

Friday's Daily Mirror back page features Britain's Andy Murray and a sweaty souvenir for the Duchess of Cornwall, who was watching the action at SW19 on Thursday as he beat Robin Haase to reach the third round.

Sportsday Live

Welcome to Friday and another Sportsday Live filled with the latest sports news and views, including all of the latest football gossip.

We start by looking at the day's back pages which feature plenty of the action from Wimbledon - and a bit of football thrown in.