Football transfer news & pre-season

1. Southampton sign defender Martina
2. Ashes: England & Australia news conferences
3. Your sporting job swap #bbcsportsday

Night all

Well, that's all from us.

We've had goblins, lots of Maria Sharapova grunting, and a Masterchef winner signing for Oldham Athletic.

AFP

What more can you ask for?

Sportsday is back again at 08:00 BST tomorrow. Will you join us? What's that, you will. Lovely. See you then.

Play-offs please

No pressure on manager Steve Clarke but Reading's new owner is expecting a push for a Premier League place this season.

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Narin Niruttinanon, who owns owns 50 per cent of the Royals following his Thai consortium's takeover, says the club should aim for the play-offs this season.

"I may be too optimistic, but I think with the team we have, I don't see why we can't aim for play-offs and hopefully have a chance to compete," said Niruttinanon at a press conference in Bangkok, "We need to aim high and I really hope we can do well."

Reading finished 19th last season after a disappointing campaign.

Former Swan gets Iraq job

Bosnian Dzemal Hadziabdic has been appointed the new coach of Iraq, the country's football association said on Tuesday.

Hadziabdic, who played for Swansea City in the 1970s and 80s, will lead Iraq in their qualifying campaign for the 2018 World Cup.

Goblin talk

Ultra-cyclist Shusanah Pillinger says she "saw goblins" as she made history by completing the 3,004-mile Race Across America (RAAM) last month.

The 39-year-old Briton completed the race from California to Maryland in 12 days, nine hours and 14 minutes.

Shusanah Pillinger

She said hallucinations during her "witching hour" were common.

"It's weird, but once you've seen it, you're not quite as shocked. None of them look particularly friendly. A lot of them are ugly looking," she said.

The definition of a goblin, by the way, is an evil or mischievous grotesque dwarf-like daemon or monster that appeared in European stories and accounts during the Middle Ages. Now you know.

Phillips gets top job

Martyn Phillips has been named as the new chief executive of the Welsh Rugby Union.

He succeeds Roger Lewis, who stands down in October.

Phillips is a former chief executive of B&Q and is currently the director of consultancy firm Leading-Edge.

Bojan looking 'a million dollars'

Bojan Krkic will take another step towards full fitness on Stoke's pre-season trip to Singapore - even though he will not play any games.

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But Potters left-back Erik Pieters will not travel to the Asia Trophy, which also features Everton, Arsenal and the Singapore Select XI, as he continues his rehabilitation following groin surgery this summer.

Bojan suffered a cruciate ligament injury in an FA Cup tie at Rochdale in January,

"We didn't really expect to see him on the first day of training, we thought it might be a week or 10 days - but he's come in with a smile on his face and he's looking a million dollars," assistant boss Mark Bowen told the Stoke Sentinel.

"We still have to protect him - and from himself at times, because he'd want to pull his boots and the red and white stripes on next Wednesday against Everton if he could."

New deal for Anderson

Catalans Dragons' former New Zealand Test forward Louis Anderson will finish his career in Perpignan after signing a new two-year contract which will take him to the end of the 2017 season.

The 30-year-old second rower has made 68 appearances for the Dragons since joining them from Warrington in 2012 and has missed only two matches so far this year.

Headlines at 6

Here's what has happened in the sporting world today...

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has not returned to the club for pre-season having been granted compassionate leave after a family bereavement.

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Former champion Maria Sharapova withstood some heavy hitting from American Coco Vandeweghe to reach her fifth Wimbledon semi-final.

Britain's Chris Froome has lost the lead in the Tour de France to Tony Martin after the German won stage four from Seraing to Cambrai.

Southampton have signed defender Cuco Martina from Dutch club FC Twente on a two-year contract.

Double major winner Jordan Spieth says Rory McIlroy's absence from the Open will "dampen" the occasion and is hoping the defending champion can recover from injury in time to play.

Williams facing fight

Serena Williams is in trouble at Wimbledon.

The number one seed, bidding to take another step closer to a calendar Grand Slam, has lost the first set to Victoria Azarenka.

EPA

On the upside, she has just broken Azarenka to go 4-2 ahead in the second set of what is an absorbing contest - full live coverage here.

Miracle man returns

'Miracle jockey' Brian Toomey - the man who 'died for six seconds' after a fall two years ago - is set to make his competitive return to racing on Sunday.

Empics

The 26-year-old - had been given just a 3% chance of survival and spent 157 nights in hospital - is set to ride 'Kings Grey' in the 4.20 at Southwell.

This will be confirmed when the horse is formally 'declared' on Friday, but it will definitely run unless there are last minute complications.

Show us the money

The Mirror: Watford have been told by Blackburn to pay at least £6m for striker Rudy Gestede.

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Rovers' 22-goal top scorer last season is a target for the newly-promoted Hornets.

On this day

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In 2014, Real Madrid great Alfredo Di Stefano died at the age of 88, two days after he was hospitalised following a cardiac arrest.

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'Bowling as fast as I've faced'

This is something to make England's batsman gulp.

Ahead of the start of the Ashes tomorrow - 11:00 BST, don't you dare miss our live text coverage from 09:00 - Australia captain Michael Clarke says pace bowler Mitchell Johnson is ready to have a "huge impact" on the series.

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Johnson took 37 wickets in Australia's 5-0 win of 2013-14, but averages 37.73 with the ball in England.

"He's bowling as fast as I've faced in the nets, but the harder thing is that he's swinging it," said Clarke. "People doubt how well he can bowl in these conditions, but that has given him that fire in his belly."

As well coverage online, there is ball-by-ball Test Match Special commentary on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra, and Radio 4 LW, online.

Scouts needed

David Weir admits Rangers' lack of scouting network is hampering Mark Warburton's Ibrox rebuilding job.

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Rangers have operated without scouts since the club's liquidation three summers ago.

Former Brentford boss Warburton was appointed last month but his assistant Weir said: "Scouting is a fundamental part of any football club and it is a big thing Rangers have lacked.

"It is definitely one thing we are working on but there has been no changes as of yet."

Lancashire 120-4 v Essex

An early tea was taken at 15:40 BST at Old Trafford where rain has allowed less than 10 overs of play so far on day two.

Lancashire have added 24 to their overnight 96-4, with Alex Davies 19 not out and skipper Steven Croft on 17.

Worcestershire 478 v Hampshire

Worcestershire skipper Daryl Mitchell carried his bat for an unbeaten 206 as they posted a big first-innings total in the game between Division One's bottom two at New Road.

Mitchell faced 413 balls during his 542-minute innings and hit 25 fours, but ran out of partners when last man Charlie Morris was caught behind off Jackson Bird (4-146) and tea was taken during the innings break.

Joe Leach contributed 59 as he and Mitchell shared a seventh-wicket stand of 123.

Golden Horn the one to watch

Cornelius Lysaght

BBC horse racing correspondent

The success of Epsom Derby winner Golden Horn in Saturday's Eclipse Stakes at Sandown is being rated the best performance by a racehorse in the world this year.

The John Gosden-trained colt, the winner of all of his five starts to date, has been allotted an official rating of 130, 2 pounds ahead of US Triple Crown winner American Pharoah.

Leeds boss McDermott takes on USA role

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Leeds Rhinos coach Brian McDermott has been appointed the head coach of USA.

He will combine the two roles as he looks to guide the country to the 2017 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Terry Matterson led the Tomahawks to the last eight of the 2013 finals, eventually losing to winners Australia.

"I am honoured to be appointed head coach of the USA Hawks. We saw in 2013 the impact the USA team can have on the international rugby league game," McDermott told the Rhinos website.

Wood to cook up a storm

Simon Wood, who you may recall - if you're a fan of cookery programmes - recently won MasterChef, is the new executive chef at Oldham Athletic.

BBC Sport

We got very confused when we initially read that and thought it said CHIEF executive - which would have made it a much more interesting story to be honest

The 38-year-old will be developing a 'Simon Wood menu' three times a year, reports the club.

Wood is a lifelong Oldham fan.

Pair stay put

Bristol Rovers duo striker Jamie Lucas and defender Danny Greenslade have signed new contracts to keep them at the League Two club for a further year.

Rovers will play in League Two next season, having won promotion back to the Football League after winning the National League play-off final in May on penalties.

Sussex in strong position

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BBC Somerset's Anthony Gibson at Taunton:

"With the wind howling across the County Ground from the west, Sussex added 175 in a 38-over afternoon session to put themselves in a strong position, leading by 121.

"Their captain, Ed Joyce, led the way, scoring only his second fifty of the season before he holed out to Peter Trego on 66, off 100 balls with 10 fours.

"At the other end, Matt Machan helped himself to an unbeaten 86, as the Somerset bowling lost its cutting edge."

The Tour in pictures

Arty photograph of the day from the Tour's fourth stage...

AFP

Or maybe this.

EPA

Or, if you're a fan of cyclists footwear, perhaps this.

AFP

More fascinating Tour images tomorrow....

BreakingMartin wins stage four

Britain's Chris Froome has lost the lead in the Tour de France to Tony Martin after the German won stage four from Seraing to Cambrai.

AP

Etixx - Quick-Step's Martin made the decisive break late on to take a nine second lead at the end of a stage including seven sections of cobbles.

Team Sky's Froome, 30, finished in the chasing pack and stays in contention.

He wore the race leader's yellow jersey for a British record 15th day on Tuesday's fourth stage.

Hull reject Norwich bids for Brady

Hull City have rejected three bids from Norwich City for winger Robbie Brady, BBC Radio Humberside reports.

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The 23-year-old, capped 13 times by the Republic of Ireland, played 32 games for Hull in 2014-15 as they were relegated to the Championship.

The latest bid by Premier League newcomers Norwich for the ex-Manchester United trainee is believed to be £3m.

More cheer for Murray

Read stands firm from Notts

BBC

BBC London 94.9's Kevin Hand at Trent Bridge:

"Captain Chris Read is steering Nottinghamshire towards parity and was ably supported in a wicketless session by Brett Hutton, who has compiled a patient 26.

"Middlesex will be mightily disappointed that the new ball, now 27 overs old, failed to bring about a breakthrough, and with 34 overs remaining, they may themselves face a tricky period with the bat before stumps."

Sharapova powers through

Maria Sharapova looked in trouble for a while but showed the fighting qualities she's known for to eventually see off unseeded American Coco Vandeweghe in three sets.

Reuters

The Russian won 6-3 6-6 (3-7) 6-2 and is through to Thursday's semi-finals.

Live Wimbledon coverage here.

When Liverpool played Crusaders

Crusaders play Estonian side Levadia Tallinn in a qualifying round of the Champions League today.

Thirty-nine years ago, when Irish League sides went straight into the first round of the European Cup, the Belfast club played English champions Liverpool. Here's what happened.

Yorkshire press on against Warwickshire

BBC

Yorkshire lost Will Rhodes and Jack Leaning during the afternoon session but the champions look in complete control against Warwickshire at Edgbaston.

With in-form Jonny Bairstow and quick-scoring Australian Aaron Finch at the crease, the visitors will look to press home their advantage further in today's final session and add to their 371-run lead.

Spanish delight

What a day for Garbine Muguruza.

The 20th seed has just sealed victory over Timea Bacsinszky to become thefirst Spaniard woman into the Wimbledon last four since Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario in 1997.

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Live Wimbledon coverage continues here.

No Vidal bid from Real

Juventus chief executive Giuseppe Marotta has rejected claims Real Madrid have made a bid for Arturo Vidal, reports The Mirror.

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"Vidal? It's just rumours, Real Madrid have not come forward," said Marotta. "We have a great relationship with them."

Vidal, fresh from winning the Copa America with Chile, has also been linked with Arsenal.

Midfielder O'Hara joins Fulham

Fulham have signed former Tottenham and Wolves midfielder Jamie O'Hara on a one-year contract.

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The 28-year-old made 28 appearances for relegated Blackpool last season and was offered a new deal to stay, but decided to leave the club.

O'Hara is Fulham's fifth signing of the summer.

Farah confirms run

Mo Farah has confirmed he will return to the former Olympic Stadium in London to take part in the Sainsbury's Anniversary Games next month.

It will be Farah's first competitive appearance in Britain since the doping allegations against his coach Alberto Salazar and team-mate Galen Rupp.

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Farah said: "This year's World Championships are hugely important to me and the 3,000m at the Sainsbury's Anniversary Games will be the best possible preparation.

"I can't wait to run in front of a home crowd again and thank the British public for all their support. I hope that the fans will come out and cheer me on."

Maximum batting points for Glamorgan

BBC

BBC Sport's Nick Webbat Chesterfield:

Most of Glamorgan's batsmen have been in the runs as they reached maximum batting points by tea against Derbyshire.

Colin Ingram, Craig Meschede, Graham Wagg and David Lloyd all took an aggressive approach, and although Mark Footitt claimed four wickets for the hosts, his colleagues could not back up the England hopeful consistently enough.

It's a rich man's world

You know how we all slog our guts out five days a week, then look at our wage packets and think 'surely there's been some kind of mistake, it must be more?'

Well, I daresay former Sunderland striker Asamoah Gyan never thinks that.

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The 29-year-old Ghanaian, who spent one full season in the Premier League on the back of the 2010 World Cup, is on the brink of signing for Chinese side Shanghai SIPG for a reported salary of £227,000-a-week - making him one of the world's highest paid footballers.

Shanghai SIPG, by the way, are managed by Sven-Goran Eriksson.

All square

Remember we told you the tennis was getting interesting? We weren't wrong.

Coco Vandeweghe has just bought Centre Court to its feet by taking the second set on a tiebreak against an increasingly stressed-looking Maria Sharapova.

Both ladies have just nipped off to the loo but the third, deciding set will start soon. Find out who books their place in the semi-finals here.

Dettori return to form no surprise - Gosden

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Frankie Dettori's return to winning big races has come as no surprise, according to trainer John Gosden.

The 44-year-old three-time champion jockey struggled for form after leaving Godolphin in October 2012, but this year on the Gosden-trained Golden Horn he has won both the Epsom Derby and Eclipse Stakes.

"The ability is always there, but you need the horses. He was moving from one job to another where the horses weren't there," Gosden told BBC Radio Suffolk.

"There's no point in driving a Formula 2 car in a Formula 1 race. You're not going to look too smart."

Maria pegged back

It's getting interesting at the tennis.

Hard-hitting American Coco Vandeweghe looked down and out in her quarter-final against Maria Sharapova, a set and 5-4 behind.

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But the unseeded 23-year-old hit back, breaking Sharapva's serve to stay in the contest, and whipping the Wimbledon crowd into a frenzy in the process.

It's now 6-6 in the second set, with the tiebreak about to begin. You can follow the action here.

Happy birthday

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Were we to gather together those sporting luminaries celebrating their birthdays on Tuesday, we would have quite the party.

The guests would include golf's 1969 Open champion Tony Jacklin (71) former England and Lions centre Jeremy Guscott (50), former Irish bantamweight boxer Wayne McCullough (45), cyclist Erik Zabel (45), India cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni (34) and Celtic and Scotland winger James Forrest (24).

Alberto heading back to Spain

Luis Alberto is heading to Deportivo de La Coruna on a season-long loan after being told he no longer features in Brendan Rodgers's plans at Liverpool, reports The Guardian.

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The 22-year-old, who has three more years left on his Liverpool contract, cost £6.8m from Sevilla in 2013 but spent last season on loan at Malaga.

Too simple

Captain Vincent Kompany has admitted Manchester City made it too easy for Chelsea to claim the Premier League title last season.

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As they returned for pre-season, Kompany said "It was a disappointment for every single player at the club last season.

"Chelsea kind of ran away with it and it was too early, too easy, and we can't afford that any more this season."

Muller 'bust-up' alerts United

Manchester United will reportedly offer £60m for Thomas Muller after reports that the German World Cup winner has had a training ground row with manager Pep Guardiola.

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German website Sport1 claims the pair had a row in training in which Muller was heard shouting: "So I can leave then, can I?" - and that United are now preparing a bid.

Stockley on the move

Portsmouth have agreed a loan deal with Premier League club AFC Bournemouth for striker Jayden Stockley.

Hardly the deal of the summer but this, like every other transfer which happens, makes it onto our dedicated transfers page. Have a gander.

'And Shearer scores...'

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Ever wonder what former England striker and Match of the Day pundit Alan Shearer does with his days?

Practice getting this just right, by the look of it.

Apparently, it was his first attempt...

Back in the habit

Arsenal's German defender Per Mertesacker is happy to be back at work...

'England don't have enough support for Anderson'

Reuters

Kevin Pietersen believes a lack of support for James Anderson will damage England's chances of regaining the Ashes from Australia.

"Sadly I think Australia will win 2-1," Pietersen wrote in his Daily Telegraph column. "I want England to win but I just can't see it happening. I hope I am wrong.

"The difference between the two teams this series is we do not have that strike bowler who can lead the attack and take wickets while James Anderson is resting between spells."

Tour de France - Stage Four

Stage Four is well under way now. Follow all of the action with our live text commentary.

Messi misery

Lionel Messi might be the best footballer on the planet (though whisper that if Ronaldo's about), but he has still to win a major international event after losing a second Copa America final, as well as one World Cup final.

Messi wrote on his Facebook page that "there's nothing more painful in football than losing a final", after Argentina's 4-1 penalty shootout defeat by Chile in the Copa final.

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"But I don't want to leave it any longer to say thank you to everyone who has always supported us and continued to during the tough moments," said the 28-year-old Barcelona star.

Argentina, beaten 1-0 by Germany in last year's World Cup final, have not won a major title for 22 years.

Djokovic through

AFP

Novak Djokovic has beaten Kevin Anderson 6-7 6-7 6-1 6-4 7-5 to reach the last eight at Wimbledon.

Follow all the action from Wimbledon here

Get Involved

We're asking which job in sport you would leave you current role for...

Jay Corrigan: I'll commentate at the next World Cup if someone wants to take my place at the cinema?

Luke Makepeace: Definitely love to do all the video editing for the promos/ highlights etc for rugby.

Jamie: McLaren driver; I drive a 0.9l Fiat Seicento, more reliable and can't imagine there's too much of a difference in top speed.

Man City Women sign midfielder Cozboz

Manchester City Women have signed USA Under-23 midfielder Daphne Corboz from Georgetown University.

The 22-year-old turned down a place at medical school to move to the Women's Super League One side.

"A lot of people have questioned me on my choice but football is what I love and it's what I want to do," she told the club's website

"Holding off medical school was hard but the prospect of playing here lured me away from that for the time being."

Spieth potential showed in 2011 Walker Cup

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Jordan Spieth was unbeaten in his three matches at the 2011 Walker Cup

Jordan Spieth's potential showed up in a 2011 Walker Cup match, according to England's Andy Sullivan.

Sullivan, who makes his Open debut at St Andrews next week, was part of the England team which beat the USA in the match at Royal Aberdeen - although he lost his own contest with Spieth.

And he told BBC Midlands Today: "What he's achieved since has not surprised me one bit.

"You knew Jordan Spieth had got pedigree. You knew he was going to be a quality player."

The answers

A Question of Sport Teaser

BBC

Earlier, we asked which nine teams have played in the Premier League and are now in either League One or League Two.

The answers are Barnsley, Blackpool, Bradford, Coventry, Oldham, Portsmouth, Sheff Utd, Swindon & Wigan. Get all nine? Well done.

'Fury will test Klitschko'

Wladimir Klitschko's manager, Bernd Boente, has been speaking to BBC World Service after confirmation the Ukrainian will fight Britain's Tyson Fury on 24 October.

"It's a very tough fight there is no doubt," said Boente. "Wladimir knows that, our team knows that. His coach knows that. The preparation has to be very, very good and it's a tough challenge no doubt.

"Tyson Fury is a very good fighter. He has a very good amateur background. He is an excellent undefeated pro. He can fight in regular stance, fight as a southpaw so that's definitely a threat no doubt."

Athletics

Meeting the media

Appetite for progress

BBC World Service's Steve Crossman is with SS Folgore of San Marino ahead of their Champions League meeting with FC Pyunik of Armenia...

Also on Tuesday, Welsh club The New Saintshost Torshavn of the Faroe Islands and Northern Irish championsCrusadersare in Estonia to face Levadia Tallinn.

Toffees target

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Everton hope to beat West Ham and Southampton to the signing of Juventus' Italy defender Angelo Ogbonna, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Cardiff pitch report

England and Australia face off on the opening day of the Ashes series in Cardiff on Wednesday, but what will the pitch be like? Here's a guide to the likely conditions:

• No longer considered the big turner of years gone by.
• Expectations this time for are for bounce and spin to be at a premium.
• English thoughts of pairing Adil Rashid with Moeen Ali may have disappeared when the Welsh weather took a turn for the worse.
• Expect it to go the distance, like the drawn match in 2009.

Hughes targets keeper

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Daily Mail: Stoke manager Mark Hughes wants to sign former Wigan goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi, 33, as back-up to England Under-21 international Jack Butland, with Asmir Begovic expected to join Chelsea.

Kent beat Leicestershire by eight wickets

BBC

Kent completed only their second win of the summer soon after lunch at Grace Road as Joe Denly hit a boundary to take them past their target of 73.

Having taken the final Leicestershire wicket at the start of play, only rain prevented the visitors from wrapping things up before the interval.

Djokovic & Anderson under way

Novak Djokovic and Kevin Anderson have just resumed battle in their epic Wimbledon fourth-round match. The winner of the fifth set takes all. Follow it here.

Collum to oversee Super Cup

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Scottish referee Willie Collum will take charge of the Uefa Super Cup final between Barcelona and Sevilla.

The Champions League winners and the Europa League holders will meet in Tbilisi on 11 August.

Get Involved

We're asking which job in sport you'd want in exchange for your current employment...

Louis Adkin: I'd love to be a sports photographer either for tennis or F1. The locations you'd visit on the job would be more than worth it.

Dan Henderson: I'd trade mine for a designated hitter in baseball. No positions just come on hit and go off. Easy load of money.

And Grundy (12:08) has been back in touch...

"I do university admin. Swapping for Sportsday sounds a fair deal eh?! It'll be quiet enough here for you to check the Ashes updates tomorrow too."

Check your facts

Check out this rather awkward exchange from Tomas Berdych's press conference last night.

BBC Sport

Berdych was riled last night when a journalist asked how he felt "going into the quarter-finals".

The problem? The Czech didn't make it into the last eight. He lost in straight sets to Gilles Simon. "Is he making fun of me," asked Berdych.

Oops.

Cook relaxed and ready

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England captain Alastair Cook is now talking to the media. He's looking far more relaxed and jovial than a serious-looking Michael Clarke. Cook has picked out Ben Stokes as somebody who could have a big summer.

"There is a lot written about my captaincy and it is important I sometimes get on the front foot," said Cook. "If you look back at previous teams, they were more methodical. Maybe there's more opportunity to be on the front foot with the players we've got now."

Glamorgan 216-4 v Derbyshire

BBC Radio Wales Sport's Nick Webb at Chesterfield: "Glamorgan continued to blast away on the second day against Derbyshire at Chesterfield, adding 49 runs in the 10.5 overs possible in the first session.

"Colin Ingram was caught at third man off Mark Foottit for 89 but Craig Meschede reached 60 before rain arrived.

"Just six overs were lost with an early lunch taken and the weather drying up."

Rain affects third morning at Edgbaston

BBC Sport

It's been a rain-affected third morning at Edgbaston, where Yorkshire have made it to lunch without losing a wicket against Warwickshire.

In the eight overs that were possible, Will Rhodes and Jack Leaning have added 23 runs.

Sussex 208 & 12-0, Somerset 274

BBC Sport's Isabelle Duncan at Taunton:

"Somerset resumed on 176/4 and 1,200 school children cheered on an eventful first session as six wickets fell for 98 runs.

"James Hildreth (82) and Peter Trego (81) both fell to Ollie Robinson (4-79), but Craig Overton wielded the willow for a blistering 53 not out, striking five fours and two sixes.

"They were all out for 274, giving them a 66-run lead, and Sussex openers Ed Joyce and Luke Wells then survived the three overs before lunch."

'Johnson as fast as ever'

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Australia captain Michael Clarke, speaking at a news conference in Cardiff: "Mitchell Johnson is as ready as I've seen him. He's bowling as fast as I've ever seen him bowl in the nets and he's swinging it too. It's not fun to face.

"He's fit, healthy and excited about what lies ahead. There's been things said about whether he can perform in these conditions and that's put fire into his belly."

Man Utd keen on Darmian

Simon Stone

BBC Sport

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Manchester United are attempting to sign defender Matteo Darmian from Serie A side Torino.

United have refused to comment on Italian media reports that a £12.7m deal for the player has been agreed. However, their liking for Darmian, 25, is thought to have gone beyond mere interest.

United manager Louis van Gaal is known to want a new right-back as he looks to strengthen his squad for the new season.

Reflecting on 2005

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Australia captain Michael Clarke, speaking at a news conference in Cardiff: "I think 2005 is one of my most special Test match series. It showed me how tough a brand of cricket Tests are. The way the series was played was exceptional.

"I would love to see similar cricket this time and for people in England to get behind the series. Any competitive series is great for the game and that's part of our role as players."

Worcestershire 314-6 v Hampshire

It has been slow going for Worcestershire skipper Daryl Mitchell on the second morning at New Road, but he was still there at lunch with 134 to his name.

He added just 29 runs to his overnight score in the 23 overs of play possible during the session.

Ben Cox was bowled by Brad Wheal, but Mitchell and Joe Leach (27 not out) have so far added 55 for the seventh wicket.

England team finalised - Clarke

Australia captain Michael Clarke is asked if he can name England's team for tomorrow's opening Test. "Everyone knows the England XI, don't they?"

For the record, it's likely to be: Cook, Lyth, Ballance, Bell, Root, Stokes, Buttler, Moeen, Broad, Wood, Anderson.

'Mutual respect between teams'

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Australia captain Michael Clarke, speaking at a news conference in Cardiff: "It's no coincidence that we haven't won here since 2001 - England are hard to beat in their own conditions. We're looking forward to the challenge.

"The mutual respect is there - the cricket will be tough on the field but there is a line you can't over-step. You don't need to say a word to show your intent. Whenever anyone has sledged me, it hasn't helped me. But others see benefit in it.

"As long as those players know there is a line not to over-step, that's what is important."

Lancashire 101-4 v Essex

Only two balls were possible during the morning session because of bad weather at Old Trafford.

Alex Davies hit the first for four and then added a single before the umpires took the players off the field.

An early lunch was later ordered with the hope of more play this afternoon.

'Conditions have changed'

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Australia captain Michael Clarke, speaking at a news conference in Cardiff: "The wicket has changed a fair bit in the last day or so, so we'll wait to name our team. It looks good, the groundsman deserves a lot of credit.

"The whole ground looks exceptional. I liked the look of the grass which was on it yesterday but that appears to have been chopped down today."

How's stat?!

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We're waiting for Australia captain Michael Clarke's news conference ahead of tomorrow's opening Ashes Test in Cardiff. Here is what history tells us about the venue for the opening battle of the summer:

• There have only been two Tests at the ground - the nailbiting Ashes draw in 2009 and England's rain-defying victory over Sri Lanka two years later.
• Statisticians looking for a par score might be confounded by the data on this occasion, with a top total of 674-9 (Australia) and a low watermark of 82 (Sri Lanka) in the six innings to date.
• England have topped 400 twice in three attempts.

Batsman dies in club match

A batsman has died after being struck on the chest by a ball whilst playing in a residential suburb in Surrey over the weekend.

Bavalan Pathmanathan turned out for Manipay Parish Sports Club (UK) in division three of the British Tamil League on Sunday at Long Ditton recreation grounds, where he received the blow.

He was given CPR and treated by an ambulance as well as air ambulance doctors, but the 24-year-old subsequently passed away from his injuries.

Money talks

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According to The Times, Liverpool and Burnley are heading for a tribunal to determine a fee for England Under-21 striker Danny Ings, 22, with the two clubs unable to reach an agreement.

Middlesex 374, Nottinghamshire 203-5

BBC London 94.9's Kevin Hand at Trent Bridge: "An early lunch has been taken on day three after rain began falling with Nottinghamshire still trailing by 145.

"Samit Patel and Steven Mullaney were the two wickets to fall in the hour that was possible this morning, with the latter caught for 76 off the last ball before the weather intervened.

"Captain Chris Read is still there on 26 and has some work to do for this side with the new ball available to Middlesex in only three overs."

Leicestershire 159 & 123, Kent 210 & 50-2

Kent only need another 23 runs to complete their second win of the summer, but an early lunch has been taken after rain intervened.

Earlier, Matt Coles took the last wicket to fall after Leicestershire resumed on 110-9, giving him 4-43 in the innings and career-best match figures of 10-98.

Facing a target of just 73, Daniel Bell-Drummond and Rob Key were both out before the weather closed in at Grace Road.

On court soon

Not long to go now until play starts on day eight at Wimbledon.

It is women's quarter-final day, plus Novak Djokovic will resume his thriller of an encounter with South Africa's Kevin Anderson. The pair are locked at two sets each, Djokovic fighting back from 2-0 down before bad light stopped play last night,

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Play begins shortly at 13:00 BST, but our live text coverage is already under way here.

Wood takes over Gibraltar

Gibraltar have named Englishman Jeff Wood as the third coach in their short international history, handing him the task of winning their first point in a competitive match.

The 61-year-old, a former goalkeeper who played for Charlton Athletic, Exeter City, HJK Helsinki and Rabat Ajax, takes over from interim coach Dave Wilson, who had been in charge for three games.

Gibraltar's next competitive game is against Republic of Ireland on 4 September.

Football

Here's a little Tuesday fact for you...

Five-year plan

Tottenham midfielder Nabil Bentaleb has signed a new five-year contract with the Premier League club.

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The Algeria international, 20, joined Spurs in January 2012 after a trial period at White Hart Lane.

He made his first-team debut in a win at Southampton in December 2013 and has since established himself as a first-tem regular.

Bentaleb played at the 2014 World Cup and made 35 appearances for Tottenham last season, scoring one goal.

Ashes special

BBC World News

Are you ready for the Ashes? Sport Today at 12:43 BST on BBC World News is a dedicated cricket special that whets the appetite ahead of the 1st Test in Cardiff.

Presenters Nick Marshall-McCormack and John Watson, an Australian and an Englishman, are joined by Aussie international James Faulkner - with contributions from Andrew Flintoff and Graham Thorpe.

This programme is not available live to UK viewers.

Wigan sign Bolton striker Davies

League One Wigan Athletic have signed striker Craig Davies on a two-year deal after his release by Bolton Wanderers.

The 29-year-old Wales international scored six goals in the Championship for the Trotters last season.

The ex-Manchester City trainee joined Bolton for a reported £300,000 from Barnsley in 2013 and has spent time at Oldham, Brighton and Chesterfield.

"Craig's a powerful striker who has a proven track record in this division," said manager Gary Caldwell.

Aitchison hopes for US 'springboard'

Holly Aitchison hopes she can use her first appearance at the US Women's Open this month as a learning experience.

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The tournament, which takes place at the Lancaster Country Club in Pennsylvania, starts on 9 July.

"I just want to enjoy the experience as much as possible and learn from it," the 28-year-old Goodwood professional told BBC Sussex.

"Making the cut would be quite a big achievement. Hopefully it can be a springboard for the rest of the year."

Counting down

Sam Sheringham

BBC Sport in Cardiff

Sam Sheringham

Just arrived in Cardiff as excitement builds ahead of the first Ashes Test, starting on Wednesday.

Saw this banner on the way in making cheeky reference to the 2009 Test here, when a brave last wicket stand by Monty Panesar and James Anderson salvaged a draw for England.

What drama awaits us this time round?

Alderweireld close to Spurs switch?

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The London Evening Standard are reporting that Toby Alderweireld's £11.5m move to Tottenham is imminent after the Atletico Madrid defender passed his medical with the club.

That comes despite Southampton coach Ronald Koeman saying on Monday that he was confident that the Atletico Madrid defender would return to the south coast on a permanent deal after last year's loan spell.

Get Involved

We're asking which job in sport you'd want in exchange for your current employment...

Kate Jewell: I'd like to be the head of catering at Lords. I'm a great cook and promise not to pester the players much.

N1ck: Got to be head of Fifa, I even hear that the position is vacant too.

Ged Lynam: The guy who starts boat races with an air horn, that'd be a real blast...

That's plenty, Ged...

Battle for Downing

Daily Mail: Sunderland and Middlesbrough are battling for West Ham winger Stewart Downing, 30, after the Black Cats had a £5m deal rejected.

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Double deal for Celtic

Celtic are closing in on the signing of Belgian goalkeeper Logan Bailly, who has arrived in Glasgow to conclude a move.

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Bailly will join from newly-promoted Belgian top-flight side OH Leuven.

The 29-year-old won eight caps for Belgium, all in 2009 and 2010, and has also played for Genk, Borussia Monchengladbach and Neuchatel Xamax.

Celtic boss Ronny Deila is clearly a busy man at the moment - as reported earlier today, the club are also close to the £1.5m signing of Dundee United striker Nadir Ciftci.

Get Involved

Ben Price: Third-choice goalkeeper at a Premier League club. Great seat for every game and chances are I wouldn't have to play.

Jon Szeto: Would trade my legal role for that at a Prem club, see what all this 'personal terms' malarkey is about. Special parking spot?

Grundy: I'll happily do your job. I spend my day (slyly) reading the updates at work so may as well get paid for it.

What gig are you offering in exchange, Grundy?

Carry on swimming

A teenager who is Singapore's best hope of winning the country's first ever Olympic medal has been given the go-ahead to miss mandatory national service so he can compete in Rio next year.

Quah Zheng Wen, 18, who won 12 medals at last month's Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, was due to start for national service next month.

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However, the Armed Forces Council (AFC) have issued a statement saying his enlistment had been delayed for a year.

It's all about who you know...

Test of knowledge

A Question of Sport Teaser

BBC

Time for Tuesday's teaser - which nine teams have played in the Premier League and are now in either League One or League Two?

No pressure, but the normally hapless Sportsday team got this one pretty quickly...

Arteta puts pen to paper

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Daily Mirror: Arsenal captain Mikel Arteta, 33, has finally signed a one-year contract - months after the Spanish midfielder verbally agreed a deal with the Gunners.

Famous five

France have announced a five-strong team for next week's Davis Cup quarter-final with Great Britain and it's a pretty strong one.

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Richard Gasquet and Gilles Simon have all been included, plus Queen's Club doubles champions Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hughes Herbert.

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The tie takes place at Queen's from 17-19 July.

Baines remains sidelined

Worrying news for Everton fans - defender Leighton Baines will miss the Toffees pre-season visit to Singapore.

The 30-year-old left-back underwent ankle surgery in May and missed the final two games of the Premier League season as well as England's Euro 2016 qualifier in Slovenia.

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Toffees boss Roberto Martinez revealed at the end of last season that Baines had been struggling with the problem for the past three years but said the surgery was "straightforward".

Darron Gibson and Bryan Oviedo will also miss the trip with injuries.

New kid on the block

Blackpool Supporters Trust issues statement

Blackpool Supporters Trust (BST) have issued a statement after launching a £16m takeover bid to buy the troubled League One club.

In it, they say: "BST has prepared what it deems a fair and reasonable bid, which in the current climate deserves serious consideration.

"There is a range of serious challenges currently facing the club and a change in ownership is a logical step to help resolve the issues for all parties.

"BST believes that, under the current ownership, the club cannot return to its former glories and that a more likely scenario is ongoing poor performance on the football pitch, leading to knock-on impact on financial performance."

Proteas beat Bangladesh

AFP

South Africa have beaten Bangladesh by 31 runs in the second Twenty20 international in Mirpur. Opener Quinton De Kock top-scored with 44 off 31 balls in the Proteas's 169-4, before Kyle Abbott, Eddie Leie and Aaron Phangiso took three wickets apiece. Full scorecard here.

Record-breaking Bantams

Bradford Cityhave announced they have sold more than 18,000 season tickets or FlexiCards ahead of the new season, a club record.

That's more than the Bantams sold when they were in the Premier League and is an almost 50% increase on last year's figure.

Great Yarmouth return date delayed

Empics

Great Yarmouth's racing surface underwent renovation after it began to degrade

Racing at Great Yarmouth has been delayed until 30 August following the work to the course's surface.

The developers for the course, which has been closed since September 2014, released a statement in June that they were hopeful of reopening on 23 July.

But in conjunction with parties including the British Horseracing Authority, they have decided to leave the renovated track for another month.

That means there will be six 2015 fixtures at Great Yarmouth.

Sportsday is now going to pause for a few moments to observe the one minute silence being held across the UK in memory of the 52 victims of the terrorist attacks on London, 10 years ago today.

'I hope to play many games'

Cuco Martina seems pretty chuffed to have signed for a Premier League club.

Southampton FC

After signing for Southampton, the 25-year-old said: "It has been a dream for me to play in the Premier League and finally I can play now. I hope to play many games and show the fans who I am.

"I've followed Southampton now for two years and they are a big club."

Saints executive director of football, Les Reed, added: "Injuries to Ryan Bertrand and Bevis Mugabi highlighted the need to bring in another defender, and Cuco is the perfect solution."

Get Involved

This morning, we're asking which job in sport you'd want in exchange for your current employment...

Matthew Brault: Pretty much any job in football. Got to be better than getting abused by teenagers every day in a high school for less than £15,000 a year

Adam Englert: Director of Sport. These days it is more important than the manager. Basically get to decide everything bar the line-up...

Jono Walker: Well, I own a retro game shop and I wouldn't change it for the world, truly happy with my business, wouldn't say no to a blast in the BTCC or F1 though.

70 hours down, just under two to go

There are some extraordinary scenes in Edinburgh right now as a group of 36 footballers are attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest 11-a-side football match ever.

Jon McLeish

The two teams of 18 kicked off at 13:00 BST on Saturday and will continue until they hit the current record of 72 hours, which is in around two hours time.

The game is a tribute to Craig Gowans, a former Falkirk youth-team player who died at the age of 17 in July 2005 when a 20ft long pole he was carrying touched power lines above the club's training ground.

Britain name team for France tie

Great Britain have named their team to face France in the Davis Cup at Queen's from 17-19 July.

Andy Murray and James Ward will compete in the singles, while Jamie Murray and Dom Inglot will team up in the doubles.

Saints new boy

So, especially for Saints fans, just who is new signing Cuco Martina? Well, we'll tell you...

He was born in Rotterdam and previously played for Erwin Koeman, Southampton's current assistant manager, during a two-year spell at RKC Waalwijk.

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Aged 25, he made his international debut for Curacao in 2011 and has played in World Cup qualifying matches.

Curacao, by the way is an island in the Caribbean Sea, about 40 miles north of the Venezuelan coast.

Blackpool Supporters Trust launch £16m takeover bid

Getty Images

Blackpool Supporters' Trust have launched a £16m bid to buy the League One club from the Oyston family.

Owner Owen Oyston has been in charge of the Tangerines since 1988 and son Karl is the chairman at Bloomfield Road.

The pair have had a fractious relationship with fans over how they run the club, with numerous protests over the past two years.

BreakingSouthampton sign Martina

Southampton FC

Southampton have signed defender Cuco Martina from FC Twente.

The 25-year-old has agreed a two-year deal and links up with the squad in time for this week's training camp in Austria.

Bat like the skipper

Reuters

Want to know the secrets of Alastair Cook's success? Want to know how to bat like him?

Then mooch on over to this video, presented by cricket analyst Simon Hughes.

'James was key for me'

Some reaction to the news this morning that Scotland midfielder James McArthur has signed a three-year contract extension Crystal Palace.

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"I'm delighted, I had a fantastic time last year and I think the club's going in a great direction," said McArthur, who arrived from Wigan in a £7m deal last summer.

"I think there was a bit of general interest in me, but Palace is where I want to be, I'm happy."

Eagles boss Alan Pardew said: "James was key for me last season and he has impressed with every aspect of his play."

Davis Cup captain to take Scotland role?

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The Herald are reporting that Great Britain Davis Cup captain Leon Smith is to combine his duties with those of Scotland's national coach.

The 39-year-old is currently head of men's tennis at the LTA but that role will be diluted by the imminent arrival of a new performance director.

Spurs' big money move

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Daily Mirror: Tottenham are lining up a £20m move for Everton's Republic of Ireland midfielder James McCarthy, 24, with winger Aaron Lennon also part of a possible deal.

Change of coach

Grigor Dimitrov has parted with coach Roger Rasheed, a decision he announced on Twitter.

The world number 11 was beaten in straight sets at Wimbledon by Richard Gasquet.

Here's not what to miss on day eight, women's quarter-final day.

Who is Matteo Darmian?

Getty Images

Manchester United have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Italy full-back Matteo Darmian from Torino.

The 25-year-old, who made his debut for his country in May 2014 and was in their World Cup squad last year, made his Serie A debut for AC Milan at the age of 17.

He has also enjoyed spells with Padova and Palermo.

Your starter for one...

AP

Which Australian is scared of ghosts? If you know the answer, or just want to find out... head on over to our 'Meet the Aussies' Ashes quiz. I got 10/10, but I did write it...

Assistant manager Penney leaves Southend

Empics

Southend have parted company with assistant manager Dave Penney after his contract with the League One club expired.

The 50-year-old former Doncaster and Bristol Rovers manager joined the Shrimpers in 2013, and was part of Phil Brown's backroom staff as they won promotion via the play-offs in 2014-15.

But Wakefield-born Penney has decided to return to West Yorkshire from Essex.

Get Involved

This morning, we're asking which job in sport you'd want in exchange for your current employment...

Jennifer Mason: I'd love to be a full-time motoring journalist - ideally an F1 writer/presenter any spots open?

G Hardy: Kit man. Getting everything nice and sorted in the dressing room, kits laid out in number order, ooooohhhh beaut.

Fifi: I'm a secondary English teacher. Would swap this for teaching the foreign cohort in the BPL to replace the dire cliches.

McClaren breakthrough

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Steve McClaren could be about to make his first signing since becoming Newcastle boss. The Evening Chronicle is reporting that the Magpies are hopeful of snapping up Schalke's £10m-rated Cameroon defender Joel Matip.

Man Utd agree Darmian deal?

BBC Radio Manchester's Bill Rice tweets...

Fury gets his wish

Getty Images

Boxing fans were licking their lips in anticipation last night after Tyson Furyfinally secured a shot at Wladimir Klitschko for the Ukrainian's world heavyweight titles in Dusseldorf, Germany on 24 October.

Fury, 26, said on Twitter he could not wait for what would be the "best fight in heavyweight history" and added he would knock out Klitschko.

We'll see, Tyson. What do you guys think?

New boy in class

Manchester United's £31m signing from PSV Eindhoven has been training with his new team-mates for the first time...

Balotelli stays away

Mario Balotelli was missing when Liverpool returned to pre-season training, after being given compassionate leave.

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The Italian striker has been granted time off following the death of his adoptive father, Francesco, over the weekend.

Balotelli was taken in by foster parents when he was three years old.

'The wisdom is sure to be questioned'

BBC golf correspondent Iain Carter

"This could not have come at a worse time and the wisdom of having a kickabout is sure to be questioned. Clearly it was a freak accident at a time when McIlroy was relaxing ahead of the most important period of the season.

"The fact it is his left ankle is also problematic. This is the side he hits towards and that bears his weight through the impact and follow through."

Spieth hoping for McIlroy recovery

Double major winner Jordan Spieth says Rory McIlroy's absence from the Open will "dampen" the occasion and is hoping the defending champion can recover from injury in time to play.

McIlroy, 26, is a doubt for next week's championship after rupturing an ankle ligament playing football with friends.

"I obviously wish he was there," Spieth, winner at this year's Masters and the US Open, told the Golf Channel. "You want all fields to be full strength no matter who it is."

We believe you, Jordan...

Football

Getty Images

Osede won the 2012 European Under-19 title with Spain

Bolton Wanderers have brought in former Real Madrid defender Derik Osede.

The 22-year-old centre-back has signed a three-year deal with the Whites after his contract ended in Spain.

He has come through the youth system with the La Liga side and played for Castilla, the Real Madrid B team, under ex-France midfielder Zinedine Zidane.

Sanchez given time off

Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez, 26, will miss the start of the new season after helping Chile to win Copa America, reveals the Daily Telegraph.

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Sanchez will be given three weeks off after playing in all six of Chile's matches in their victorious Copa America campaign.

County Championship Division Two

There could be an early finish on day three at Grace Road, with Leicestershire set to resume on 110-9 in their second innings against Kent, leading by just 59.

Glamorgan had the better of day one against Derbyshire at Chesterfield, closing on 167-3, while Lancashire reached 96-4 against Essex on a rain-disrupted opening day at Old Trafford.

County Championship Division One

Division One leaders Yorkshire will hope to press home their advantage against Warwickshire, having dismissed the Bears for just 69 on day two. The reigning champions have moved to 125-1 in their second innings, a lead of 269.

At Trent Bridge, Nottinghamshire are 180-4 in reply to Middlesex's first-innings 374, while Somerset pair Peter Trego and James Hildreth will continue their unbroken partnership of 140 after the hosts closed on 176-4 at Taunton, replying to Sussex's 208.

Worcestershire ended day one at New Road on 228-5 against bottom side Hampshire, with Daryl Mitchell 105 not out overnight.

Eddie, steady, go...

Join In

Eddie Izzard has just walked past the Sportsday desk, having been speaking to our BBC Sport TV colleagues about #BigHelpOut.

Launched in the lead up to BBC Sports Personality of the Year, it is a project between Get Inspired and Join In - the London 2012 legacy charity for sport volunteering - aiming to find 10,000 helpers for local sport.

It's a fantastic scheme and one you can read more about here.

The value of the Sterling

Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling is the most valuable young player in Europe, according to a new study.

Sterling, the subject of a failed £40m bid from Manchester City, has been given a weighted value of £35m by the Soccerex 20 Football Value Index.

Manchester United full-back Luke Shaw is ranked ninth, Everton's John Stones 16th and Arsenal's Calum Chambers 19th.

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Get Involved

AFP

This morning, we're asking which job in sport you'd want in exchange for your current employment...

Jack Jones: Groundskeeper. I feel with my hayfever some may say it's a challenge... but I relish a challenge.

Andrew Dight: Pitchside medic for Premiership rugby team or England Rugby. Message back for CV. Would consider rugby league too.

Zoe Alicia: Always wanted to be a snooker referee.

Hammers loan deal

Daily Mail: West Ham have agreed a deal in principle to sign Argentine midfielder Manuel Lanzini, 22, on loan from United Arab Emirates-based club Al Jazira.

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The paper also says the Hammers are continuing discussions over a loan deal for right-back Carl Jenkinson from Arsenal and are waiting for Alex Song's injury to clear up before proceeding with his move from Barcelona.

Mini-Messi on the move?

Reuters

Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal have all shown an interest in signing Reading and England forward Fran Kirby.

Kirby, 22, scored England's first goal of the Women's World Cup in the 2-1 win over Mexico as the Lionesses went on to finish third overall.

Chelsea have made a bid for the only player in England's squad to currently play in Women's Super League 2.

City and Arsenal are also interested with the transfer deadline falling on Thursday.

Reds stand firm

Manchester United are determined not to be bullied by Real Madrid over keeper David De Gea, say the Manchester Evening News.

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The Reds have told Real that they will only allow De Gea to leave if Spain centre back Sergio Ramos comes to Old Trafford.

Wells takes extra responsibility

Newcastle have confirmed head coach John Wells will also lead the Aviva Premiership club's defence department following Graham Steadman's move to Cardiff Blues.

And, as part of an updated coaching structure at Kingston Park, there will be new responsibilities for lock Scott MacLeod and club academy manager Mark Laycock.

Ex-Scotland international lock MacLeod will take up a player-coaching role, joining the back-room staff as a lineout specialist, while Laycock will assume a skills-based post.

Get Involved

AFP

This morning, we're asking which job in sport you'd want in exchange for your current employment...

Matthew Whiley: I would swap any job I had to be a cricket umpire.

Ashley Sayer: I would have to be an agent - work for a few months a year, get to know all the gossip first and earn loads in fees.

Christopher: It'd be pretty cool to be a VP of Football Operations at an NFL team like Titans, Seahawks or Atlanta Falcons.

What does Flintoff listen to?

Desert Island Discs

AP

Andrew Flintoff loves his music. He used Elton John's Rocket Man as inspiration before his century at Trent Bridge against the Australians in 2005 and used Johnny Cash's Ring of Fire to inspire his team-mates to a famous victory in India back in 2006.

So, it's fair to say he's always been a contender to appear on Desert Island Discs. And here it is.

Portugal bound?

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Real Madrid's 34-year-old goalkeeper Iker Casillas is interested in a move to Porto after a formal bid for the Spain goalkeeper was submitted by last season's runners-up in the Portuguese League, according to The Guardian.

Turan signs for Barca

AFP

One of the biggest transfers of the summer is complete - kind of - after Barcelona signed Turkey midfielder Arda Turan from Atletico Madrid for an initial fee of £24m.

I say 'kind of', because, in the absence of a president, the Catalan club are being administered by a special commission, which had to approve the transfer.

The commission included an unusual clause which means whoever wins the July 18 election has an option to sell Turan back to Atletico within two days for 10% less than the initial £24m outlay.

Reading co-owner outlines vision

The majority owner of the Thai consortium which runs Reading has spoken for the first time about his vision for the Championship club.

Narin Niruttinanon owns 50% of the Royals following the takeover from previous majority shareholder Anton Zingarevich.

"We are here for the long-term, to do what's best for the team," he told BBC Radio Berkshire.

Reading are currently in Thailand on their pre-season tour.

Pakistan complete series win

AFP

Younus Khan cracked an imperious 171 not out as Pakistan achieved the sixth highest successful chase in Test history when they surpassed the target of 377 runs in the third Test against Sri Lanka in Pallekele.

Recovering from 13-2, they were victorious by seven wickets to win their first series in Sri Lanka since 2006, stretching back three series.

McArthur signs new Palace deal

Scotland midfielder James McArthur has signed a contract extension with Crystal Palace...

Celtic agree Ciftci fee

SNS

Dundee United have agreed a fee with Celtic for striker Nadir Ciftci.

The Scottish champions had earlier offers of £900,000 and £1m rejected for the 23-year-old, who moved to Tannadice from Dutch side Breda in 2013 and has scored 33 goals in two seasons.

United had accepted a £1.5m offer from Wigan, but Ciftci did not want to join the English League One team.

Kauto Star rider 'bullied and hurt'

Rider Laura Collett says she feels "bullied and hurt" by claims she lied about the circumstances of record-breaking racehorse Kauto Star's death.

The two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner was put down after complications following a freak accident in the field at Collett's Berkshire stables.

Collett, 25, said "malicious" rumours the horse ditched a rider and ran into a wall have compounded her grief.

"I feel like I'm being bullied at the moment and it's hurtful," she said.

Get involved

PA

Right then. Shall we have a debate? Earlier on, we mentioned the fanciful suggestion that Bayern Munich are offering Manchester United a player swap involving Thomas Muller and Arjen Robben in return for Angel Di Maria.

So, imagining for one brief moment that Angel swaps a job in Manchester for one in Munich, we're asking what job in sport you'd want in exchange for your current role.

Get involved, using #bbcsportsday.

Tour de France - Stage 4

Britain's Chris Froome leads the Tour de France after finishing second on stage three, but what lies ahead on Tuesday? Froome's Team Sky colleague Geraint Thomas explains...

"If it's dry it won't be as bad, but if it rains like last year there could be big time gaps again. It's certainly a big day for the teams with riders competing for the overall victory.

Tour de France

"Everybody will be stressing about that and you've just got to concentrate on being in a good position at the front. The only problem is that's what 180 other riders want to do.

"It's all about fighting for position for when most of the cobbled sections start in the final 50km or so."

You can follow the action from 11:05 BST with our live text commentary

Mayweather loses WBO belt

AP

In the world of boxing, five-weight world champion Floyd Mayweather has been stripped of the WBO welterweight belt won from Manny Pacquiao in May.

The 38-year-old failed to pay the WBO a $200,000 (£128,000) sanctioning fee by the 3 July deadline.

Mayweather had been expected to relinquish the title by now, saying he planned to do so following his points victory over Pacquiao.

Fellow American Timothy Bradley will now become the full belt holder.

Numbers game

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And as well as all that, the BBC Sport website attracted 21.1m UK browsers last week - up 29% on the previous week.

Taming the Lyon

Getty Images

The Ashes series gets under way tomorrow, and BBC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew has been outlining how England can beat Australia.

One of the themes he touches upon is whether England have the ability to target touring spinner Nathan Lyon.

"England should throw the pressure back on to Lyon, a man who bowled 22 overs for 136 runs in the first innings of Australia's match against Essex," writes Aggers. "Every over he is not allowed to bowl is one more in the legs of Starc, Johnson or Hazlewood."

Read more of the column here.

Man City sign Turkish teenager

And to bring you some transfer news which broke last night...

Manchester City have signed 18-year-old Turkish striker Enes Unal from Bursaspor for an undisclosed fee.

Unal, who has played once for Turkey, scored four times in 37 games as Bursa finished sixth in the Super Lig last season.

Gossip column

PA

Also in the gossip, the Daily Star say that Manchester City are hoping to complete a £50m deal for Liverpool's England winger Raheem Sterling, 20, in time to take him on tour to Australia.

Oh yeah... and did you know Micronesia were thrashed 46-0 by Vanuatu in their latest game in an Olympic qualifying tournament - and now have a goal difference of -114. You do now.

Remember to get stuck into the gossip column early on, it's one of your five a day...

Gossip column

Reuters

Is there ever a more exciting transfer proposition than a player swap? I bring this up because German newspaper Bild are reporting that Bayern Munich are ready to offer Manchester United 25-year-old Germany forward Thomas Muller, 31-year-old Netherlands winger Arjen Robben and cash in exchange for Argentina midfielder Angel Di Maria, 27.

Would you take that, Reds fans? It's all in the gossip if you want to read more.

Kyrgios fumes at Fraser's comments

AFP

The biggest tennis story of the day?

Well, Nick Kyrgios says Australian Olympic swimming great Dawn Fraser, pictured, is a "blatant racist" after she said players should "go back to where their parents came from" if they cannot behave.

Australian Kyrgios, who has a Greek father and Malaysian mother, appeared to stop trying during his defeat by Richard Gasquet at Wimbledon.

The 20-year-old was also given a code violation for bad language. Fraser later "unreservedly" apologised for her comments.

Read more on that here.

Can Serena make it title number 21?

AFP

Also today at Wimbledon, Serena Williams continues her mission to win what would be a fourth major in a row, a sixth Wimbledon and a 21st Grand Slam title. After beating sister Venus, she now plays two-time Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka.

Maria Sharapova, meanwhile, faces big-serving American Coco Vandeweghe. The Russian is yet to drop a set at this year's tournament.

Vandeweghe's compatriot Madison Keys is hotly tipped to one day emulate her coach Lindsay Davenport and become a Wimbledon champion. Blocking her path is 2012 finalist Agnieszka Radwanska.

The winner of that match takes on the victor of the other quarter-final between Spain's Garbine Muguruza and Switzerland's Timea Bacsinszky.

Big day for Djokovic

EPA

So, what drama can we expect on day eight of Wimbledon? First of all, Novak Djokovic will resume his match with Kevin Anderson at 13:00 BST on Court One. The match is tied at two sets apiece, meaning it's a one-set shootout.

Are we going to get an upset?

BBC Sport is the place to find out.

Back pages

Finally, I Sport lead on Wimbledon and the controversial defeat of Nick Kyrgios by Richard Gasquet. The 20-year-old Australian was booed when he appeared to stop trying in the second set after being given a code violation for bad language.

I Sport

Back pages

Moving on to the Continent, Italy's Corriere dello Sport focuses on Juventus midfield pair Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal, who could fetch a combined 130m euros (£92m) if sold this summer.

corrieredellosport

Back pages

The Daily Star prefer to focus on the freak injury sustained by the world's number one golfer Rory McIlroy, who could miss the Open because of an injury sustained playing football.

Daily Star

Back pages

Let's start with a look at the back pages of the morning papers. In the Sun, their top transfer line centres on David De Gea and suggests the Manchester United goalkeeper could be closer to a move to Real Madrid now that Iker Casillas has agreed to join Porto.

The paper also reports that Jose Mourinho has turned down a pay rise to stay at Chelsea.

The Sun

Welcome

PA

Morning all.

It's just 27 hours until the Ashes kicks off, Wimbledon is in full swing and the football transfer market is slowly whirring into life.

Plenty for us to feast on in Sportsday then.