Sportsday - football transfer news

1. Breaking transfer news
2. Injured McIlroy out of Open
3. Man Utd close in on Darmian deal
4. Cabaye set for Palace for £10m, Spurs sign Alderweireld
5. GET INVOLVED: how would you spend your club's budget?
6. Liverpool's Sterling asks to be left out of pre-season tour

Goodbye

OK, that's a wrap for today's Sportsday but there's still plenty of live sport going on. Point your browser here for the Ashes and here for the rest of the day's action from Wimbledon.

Otherwise, not a lot left for me to say except cheerio!

Bolt to race in London

Oganisers of the Anniversary Games at the Olympic Stadium on 24/25/26 July are confident that Usain Bolt will be competing at the event.

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It follows today's Chancellor's Budget including provision for income tax exemption for non-residents participating in the Games.

The BBC understands this should help ensure Bolt will be back in the stadium later this month with a contract due to be signed within next 24 hours.

Hearts part company with striker

Striker Dale Carrick has left Hearts by mutual consent.

The striker was sent to Raith on loan last January but picked up a season-ending injury just two games into his Rovers stint.

Now head coach Robbie Neilson has allowed the 21-year-old's contract to be torn up while he looks to kick-start his career elsewhere.

Rotherham sign defender Halford

Rotherham United sign defender Greg Halford following his release by Championship rivals Nottingham Forest.

Halford made 82 appearances for Forest having joined from Portsmouth in July 2012 for an undisclosed fee.

The 30-year-old former Colchester trainee finished last season on loan at Brighton, featuring in 20 games.

"Not only is he a talented footballer, he is a talented footballer in a vast number of positions," Rotherham manager Steve Evans told the club's website.

Richards signs in

Catalans Dragons have signed Pat Richards on a two-year contract, from the start of the 2016 season.

The prolific goal kicker, who had an eight-year stint at Wigan before returning to Australia, has scored almost 3000 points over 15 seasons in the NRL and Super League.

Say it with flowers at Sunderland

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Sunderland manager Dick Advocaat has thanked fans who raised money to send his wife flowers after he announced he was staying at the club.

Advocaat originally said he would leave at the end of last season because his wife wanted him to retire. But the Dutchman, 67, who helped the Black Cats to Premier League safety, signed a new one-year contract in June.

"It's the first time in my life that the fans have sent some flowers to our house," said Advocaat.

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

Reading

Reading confirm that Englandstriker Fran Kirby has joined Chelsea Ladies for a British record transfer fee.

Kirby scored England's first goal at the Women's World Cup, in a 2-1 win over Mexico, and helped the Lionesses go on to finish third overall in Canada.

She was the top goalscorer in WSL 2 last season, netting 24 times, and has scored 11 goals in five league appearances for Reading so far in 2015.

There were also bids from Man City and Arsenal for the forward.

Football returns to Hereford on Saturday

Hereford FC

Hereford FC expect to play in front of a capacity 5,000 Edgar Street crowd in this Saturday's first home friendly against FC United of Manchester.

A month before the reformed Bulls are due to kick off their first season in the ninth tier, the 'Phoenix Club' will play English football's foremost 'Protest Club'.

"They've been a big help to us," said Bulls media officer Jamie Griffiths. "It's certainly fitting that we should play them in our first home game."

Catalans sign winger Richards

Former Wigan Warriors winger Pat Richards will return to Super League with Catalans Dragons in 2016 after two seasons in Australia with Wests Tigers.

The Ireland international, who will turn 34 in February, scored 149 tries in 199 Super League games at Wigan, and was the 2010 Man of Steel.

More players please

Dick Advocaat has revealed he wants up to four more summer signings as he attempts to rebuild his Sunderland team.

The 67-year-old Dutchman agreed to return to the Stadium of Light as head coach last month after a nine-game cameo at the end of last season.

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Chairman Ellis Short promised to fund a summer rebuilding programme and the club has already signed Liverpool central defender Sebastian Coates and Celtic full-back Adam Matthews.

But Advocaat said: "We still hope that we can get three or four extra players in the squad. That makes everything a little bit easier. We need more competition in the squad."

Swan makes last eight in juniors

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Britain's Katie Swan has made the quarter-finals of the girls' singles at Wimbledon following a rain-affected victory over American Sofia Kenin.

Swan was a break of serve down at 2-4 when the match was halted but recovered to take the first set on a tiebreak. The 16-year-old was then 3-0 up in the second, with two breaks of serve, when the match was stopped a second time.

Bristol-born Swan, who is seeded fifth, held her nerve on the resumption to win 7-6 (7-1) 6-2 and reach the last eight.

Liverpool move a 'no brainer' - Ings

Liverpool

New Liverpool striker Danny Ings says joining the Reds from Burnley was "a no brainer".

Ings, 22, scored 11 goals in the Premier League last season but could not help Burnley stay in the top flight.

"Liverpool was the only club on my mind, to be fair. And now that it has happened, it's fantastic for me and my family," Ings told Liverpool's official website.

"The manager is fantastic at developing young players. For a player like me, I think it will be perfect to work with him."

Ings will wear the number 28 shirt.

Stoke - European City of Sport (yes, really!)

BBC

Stoke-on-Trent is named the UK's European City of Sport for 2016.

The title was handed out by ACES Europe, a not-for-profit group based in Brussels. The initiative is supported by the European Commission.

The city council said the title was won with the support of Stoke's two major football clubs - Stoke City and Port Vale - as well as other sporting bodies and its university.

Sport England said the title was "well-deserved".

Glamorgan 410-9 dec, Derbyshire 252

BBC Radio Wales Sport's Nick Webb at Chesterfield:

"Glamorgan enforced the follow-on after Derbyshire lost their last five wickets for 83 in the afternoon session.

"Shiv Thakor made 41 and Tom Taylor 30, but Derbyshire fell nine runs short of their target with Ruaidhri Smith's career-best 3-23 providing the best bowling figures for the visitors, who are in search of a county record fifth straight win."

Greipel takes stage five win

McIlroy out of Open Championship

BreakingMcIlroy out of Open Championship

As that tweet below confirms, Rory McIlroy has pulled out of The Open because of an ankle injury.

"I'm taking a long term view of this injury and, although rehab is progressing well, I want to come back to tournament play when I feel 100% healthy and 100% competitive," he wrote on Instagram.

"Thank you for all your support and best wishes. I hope to be back on the course as soon as I can.... In the mean time, come on Andy!!!"

Rory McIlroy/Instagram

McIlroy out of Open Championship

Murray into Wimbledon semi-final

BBC

Andy Murray is through to the Wimbledon semi-finals after beating Vasek Pospisil 6-4 7-5 6-4. He will next face Roger Federer for a place in the final. Read more in our dedicated live coverage.

Keeper joins Celtic

Celtic have completed the signing of Belgian keeper Logan Bailly, the club have announced.

The former OH Leuven stopper will be expected to push Parkhead number one Craig Gordon after he was handed a three-year deal by boss Ronny Deila.

Given to Stoke, not Boro

Middlesbrough were left reeling this afternoon after Shay Given slipped through their fingers at the final moment, reports the Gazette.

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The club thought they had secured the Republic of Ireland keeper after he was released from the final year of his contract at Aston Villa.

But the Gazette understands Premier League side Stoke made a last gasp raid to snatch the veteran shot-stopper at the eleventh hour.

Nani thanks Sir Alex

Nani/Instagram

Nani has paid tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson as he says goodbye to Manchester United following his move to Fenerbahce.

The winger spent eight years at Old Trafford from 2007, and he posted on his Instagram account: "I leave Manchester United with many titles and memories, I want to thank all the people who helped me on this journey and wish you all the luck and success!

"Thanks to all my colleagues, to all staff and management structure, thank you Sir Alex Ferguson!"

Lancashire 402-8 dec, Essex 24-1

Steven Croft's 122 helped Lancashire achieve maximum batting points before he declared on the third afternoon at Old Trafford.

The Red Rose skipper hit 16 fours in his 270-minute innings, and shared a sixth-wicket stand of 144 with James Faulkner (68).

When Essex began their reply, Toby Lester marked his Championship debut by bowling Jaik Mickleburgh off the inside edge in his second over.

Somerset collapse against Sussex

BBC

BBC Radio Bristol's Anthony Gibson at Taunton:

"At 69-0, with only another 48 overs to survive, Somerset looked odds-on for a comfortable draw.

"Five overs later and they're five wickets down, all to spinners Luke Wells and Ashar Zaidi, the rot having been started by Somerset captain Marcus Trescothick, who perished with a wild slog at his first ball from Wells.

"Somerset's remaining batsmen will need to show a good deal more resolve than their predecessors if they are to deny Sussex the five wickets that they need in the final session."

Yorkshire 213 & 289-7 dec, Warwickshire 69 & 217-8

Reigning champions Yorkshire need two more wickets in the final session at Edgbaston to register their sixth win of the season and extend their lead at the top of the table.

Former England seam bowler Ryan Sidebottom took the first four to fall, giving him 10 in the match, but since then they have been shared between Jack Brooks, Steve Patterson and James Middlebrook.

Only youngster Sam Hain has resisted for long and was 78 not out at tea, having already batted for almost three and a half hours.

Worcestershire head towards vital win

BBC

Another fine bowling performance from Worcestershire in the afternoon session at New Road has put them in a winning position against fellow Division One strugglers Hampshire.

After Joe Leach took the visitors' final first-innings wicket shortly after lunch, Daryl Mitchell enforced the follow-on with his side holding an imposing lead of 295.

Michael Carberry and Sean Terry took Hants to 74-1, but a quick burst of three wickets in 10 balls has left them perilously placed at tea.

They still need 204 runs just to make Worcestershire bat again with six wickets left.

Northants 215-8 v Gloucestershire

Captain Alex Wakely's first century of the summer has saved Northants from total collapse on the opening day at Cheltenham.

Inspired bowling by Liam Norwell (5-41) saw them slip from 90-1 to 122-6 in the space of 12 overs.

Wakely, however, reached 104, with 16 boundaries, before he was caught off James Fuller from the last ball before tea.

Federer through to Wimbledon semis

Casillas leaves, De Gea on the move?

Marca

Real Madrid have agreed terms with Porto for the transfer of Iker Casillas,reports Spanish Daily Marca.

The newspaper expects the deal to be officially confirmed in the next few hours.

Does that mean David De Gea is on his way from Manchester United to Real Madrid then?

What should your team's budget be spent on?

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Right then. The government has announced its new budget so we thought we'd jump on that with a sporty twist.

What should your football club spend its budget it on? New players? Better pies? Cambridge United spent some of their £1m windfall from playing Manchester United in the FA Cup on some new toilets, does your ground's lavatories need sprucing up?

And we are not just talking about the club you support too, what about your Sunday League side? Where could their budget be well spent?

Let us know via #bbcsportsday, text in on 81111 and have your say on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Steven swapping Stoke for Sevilla?

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Stoke City accept a £7m bid from Sevilla for midfielder Steven Nzonzi,the Sentinel reports.

The 25-year-old, who is into the last 12 months of his current Stoke deal, is to travel to Spain on Wednesday to join the Europa League winners.

Cricket

Meanwhile at Old Trafford...

A young cricketer's shock County Championship debut has just got a whole lot better - by taking his first wicket in just his second over.

Toby Lester, 22, was playing for Fylde's second XI near Blackpool in the fully-amateur Moore and Smalley Palace Shield just five years ago.

Called up for Lancashire's match against Essex at Old Trafford, left-arm bowler Lester has taken the wicket of Jaik Mickleburgh for one.

Tea at the Test

It's tea in Cardiff and England will be pretty chuffed at the position they find themselves in.

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After being reduced to 43-3 in the morning session, they have steadied the ship and are now 190-3.

Yorkshire pair Joe Root and Gary Ballance are the men responsible for the fightback. Root is 93 not out, Ballance unbeaten on 59.

Shelvey signs new deal

Swansea

Swansea midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has signed a new four-year contract, keeping him at the Premier League club until 2019.

He looks delighted.

Robson returns to form

BBC

BBC London 94.9's Kevin Hand at Trent Bridge:

"Bad light stopped play moments before the scheduled tea interval on the final day, with Middlesex leading by 94 runs.

"Sam Robson, who was dropped on eight, has made a welcome return to form, the first time the England hopeful has passed fifty this summer other than his 178 against Durham in Middlesex's third match of the season.

"Nottinghamshire needed early wickets if they were to force an unlikely victory on a flat pitch in a game that has already lost some time to the weather."

Black named as new Rotherham coach

Empics

Rotherham United have appointed Eric Black as their new first team coach.

The 51-year-old former Coventry and Motherwell boss left Wigan at the end of last season.

He has previously spent time on the coaching staff at Birmingham City, Sunderland and Blackburn.

Keeper has surgery

Liverpool Ladies have confirmed that goalkeeper Danielle Gibbons has undergone surgery after discovering a benign brain tumour earlier this year.

Gibbons was diagnosed with acoustic neuroma in January and underwent the surgery to successfully remove the tumour this week.

She is targeting a return to action for the Reds' UEFA Women's Champions League campaign later in the year.

'Disappointed and awkward'

Phil Mickelson has expressed his disappointment at the controversial comments on immigration made by Donald Trump and the "awkward situation" they have created for professional golf.

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Trump stated his views on Mexican immigrants when announcing his decision to stand for president of the United States last month, and since then the PGA of America announced that the Grand Slam of Golf would not take place as scheduled at Trump National in Los Angeles on October 20-21.

"I think we were all disappointed to hear his comments," Mickelson said ahead of the Scottish Open.

"It puts everybody in an awkward situation because we don't agree with those comments, but yet we are appreciative of what he's done to help promote the game of golf, and that puts everybody in a tough spot."

Six months off

Barcelona's new midfield playmaker Arda Turan has said it will be tough not being able to play until January due to a ban on the club registering players.

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Barca signed the Turkey captain from Atletico Madrid on Monday and Spanish media say the European champions may send Arda out on loan until 2016, possibly to his former club Galatasaray.

FIFA banned Barca from two transfer windows after they were deemed to have broken rules on the signing of foreign under-18 players.

"It's going to be hard not playing for six months but I will work until I am able to make my debut in January," Arda said.

Stadium plan passes first test

AC Milan have cleared a major hurdle in their plans to build a new stadium after their bid to acquire the land to build on was approved.

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Milan, who currently share the ageing municipal San Siro stadium with rivals Inter Milan, are planning to build a 48,000-capacity arena in time for the 2018-19 campaign.

"It is the first historic step," said club director Barbara Berlusconi. "It is a first step because we will have to submit the entire project to the institutions for approval."

Turned out nice again

Action halted

Rain has stopped play at Wimbledon, with both matches delicately poised.

Andy Murray leads Vasek Pospisil 6-4 3-4, while Roger Federer is ahead against Gilles Simon 6-3 6-5.

The weather experts reckon it will only be a 10-minute interruption. We shall see.

Legal action?

Toby Alderweireld may have completed a dream move to Tottenham - but the Belgium defender could still be involved in a legal wrangle between Southampton and Atletico Madrid.

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The 26-year-old moves to White Hart Lane having spent last season on loan with Ronald Koeman's Southampton, who had a deal in place to sign the former Ajax man.

Under the terms of the loan, Atletico could pay £1.5m to Saints to cancel that agreement but the south coast club claim that the La Liga outfit did not do so in time - and therefore believe they should have been the front-runners to sign Alderweireld.

Despite the uncertainty over any outstanding fee or potential legal proceedings, the player completed a move to White Hart Lane earlier today.

Headlines at 3

Here are the headlines so far today...

Tottenham have signed defender Toby Alderweireld for an undisclosed fee from Atletico Madrid on a five-year contract.

Manchester United hope to sign Torino defender Matteo Darmian for £12.9m in time for him to be involved in their pre-season tour of the United States.

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Darmian can play anywhere across the back line

Ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher says Raheem Sterling's reputation is being impacted after he asked to be left out of the club's pre-season tour.

Crystal Palace are close to completing the club-record signing of Paris St-Germain midfielder Yohan Cabaye.

Tottenham have agreed a deal with the NFL to stage a minimum of two American football games a season over 10 years at their new stadium.

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.

Church bidding to regain Wales place

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Striker Simon Church says he hopes his move to MK Dons will help him regain a starting place in the Wales team.

The 26-year-old last started a Wales game in October 2014 and only made 19 appearances for Charlton last year.

"We're a couple of points off securing a place in the Euros next year, which would be a dream come true," he told BBC Three Counties Radio.

"I'm desperate to get in the squad and back in the starting line-up - to do that I need to be playing football."

Olympic hopes

Budapest has launched a bid to host the Olympics in 2024.

A letter sent to the president of the International Olympics Committee stated: "Budapest announces its official candidacy for the hosting of the Olympic and Paralympic Summer Games in 2024, with the support of the Hungarian government."

Another Tour rider crashes out

French sprint hope Nacer Bouhanni has been taken to hospital after crashing early on the fifth stage of the Tour de France.

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The 24-year-old hit the deck after 12km of the 189.5km trek from Arras to Amiens and is expected to be out of action for between eight to 10 days after suffering a rib injury.

Bouhanni is the eighth person to abandon the Tour after seven riders crashed out on Monday's third stage.

You can follow live coverage of the Tour here.

Richards wants England return

Aston Villa summer signing Micah Richards says he is hoping for a return to the England side by performing well for his new club.

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The former Manchester City defender's progress has stalled with injuries and an uneventful loan spell in Serie A with Fiorentina, but now he's back in the Premier League, Richards says he is "hungrier than ever" and he wants to show everyone how good he can be.

The 27-year-old has 13 England caps, with the last of them coming in 2012.

Coming back

Captain Jean de Villiers has been named on the bench for the Springboks' opening game of the season after he made a quicker-than-expected recovery from a serious left knee injury.

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De Villiers was a doubt for the Rugby World Cup in September after undergoing reconstructive surgery following his injury against Wales last November.

The 106-test centre hasn't played at any level since, but was named in the reserves by coach Heyneke Meyer for Saturday's game against a World XV.

No Owls approach for Cooper, says Swindon chairman

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Swindon chairman Lee Power says there has been no approach from Sheffield Wednesday for his manager Mark Cooper.

Earlier in the day, Cooper said that he did not know whether the Owls had made an inquiry for him.

But Power told BBC Wiltshire: "I never had an official approach from Sheffield Wednesday, there was no approach. If there was and Mark was speaking to them I would let the fans know."

Fleetwood swoop for Jonsson

League One Fleetwood have signed Icelandic international Eggert Jonsson.

The 26-year-old defender previously played for Hearts and Wolves.

Toffee raid

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The Mirror: Everton manager Roberto Martinez has bid £8m for Crystal Palace defender Scott Dann but have been told they may have to double their offer for the 28-year-old.

The covers are off!

Wimbledon

Roger Federer and Andy Murray both in action at the same time. What a quarter-finals day at Wimbledon! The good news is the covers are off and action is back under way. Follow our live coverage.

Sunderland news conference

Sunderland news conference

Dick Advocaat went back on his decision to quit as Sunderland boss last month, and he is explaining what happened to come to that decision:

Sunderland news conference

It is almost like the football season is in full swing as Sunderland pop up with a news conference, Dick Advocaat speaking to the media. 

What does he have to say, I wonder?

Can Sussex force win at Taunton?

BBC

BBC Radio Bristol's Anthony Gibson at Taunton:

"A career-best 192 from Matt Machan and an unbeaten 140 from Chris Nash were all well and good, but the consensus at Taunton is that Sussex have already batted on too long to give themselves a realistic chance of forcing a win.

"Machan and Nash accumulated steadily against some lacklustre Somerset bowling, with Luke Wright providing the only real excitement of the morning when he hit Abdur Rehman for three sixes in an over, after the left-arm spinner had at last picked up a couple of wickets.

"With a lead of 402, only 70 overs or so remaining and still no declaration, caution is evidently Ed Joyce's captaincy watchword."

Sidebottom double rocks Warwickshire

BBC

Ryan Sidebottom took two wickets in three balls to boost Yorkshire's chances of victory at Edgbaston before rain forced an early lunch.

The former England left-armer bowled Jonathan Trott (29) and had Laurie Evans lbw second ball, and currently has match figures of 9-57.

Ian Westwood (35) and Sam Hain (22) have shared an unbroken stand of 45, but Warwickshire are still 331 short of their target of 434.

Football

Lewis Hamilton's inspiration

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Lewis Hamilton has this week spoken about how much of an inspiration his brother Nic is after winning Sunday's British Grand Prix.

Nic made British motorsport history at the end of June, becoming the first disabled person to race in British Touring Car Championship.

"I am the older brother," Lewis told the Daily Express. "As a kid, I always felt inspired by him when we were playing basketball, or football, or computer games, he would do it with much more difficulty than me, but he kept doing it. It takes a lot of guts to go into a series like that [BTCC] when you've had no testing, no practice, no career. Unlike me who did go-karting and all the classes in the world."

Read more about Nic's inspirational journey here.

Northants 92-3 v Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire started and finished the morning session well after opting to put Northants in at Cheltenham.

Craig Miles had Stephen Peters caught behind with his second delivery, but Ben Duckett and Alex Wakely then added 90 for the second wicket.

Duckett eventually fell for 53 to Liam Norwell, who also removed Rob Keogh in his next over, but Wakely was still there on 37 not out at lunch.

Who do you want your club to sign?

Jamel McFarlane: Man Utd need to sign a centreback, a defensive midfielder and a striker. I think we should sign Ramos, Schneiderlin and Muller.

Lloyd Evans: It looks like we're signing the goalscorer that we need in Nadir Ciftci, the Celtic squad's starting to look very good.

Hummels not Manchester-bound

In-demand Germany defender Mats Hummels has decided to ignore a potential move to Manchester United and stay with Borussia Dortmund for another year.

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The 26-year-old World Cup winner said: "There have always been rumours about almost every one of our players, but I decided not to make the move this year.

"Of course when the big clubs are interested, and Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs in the world, it's an honour. But I decided I wanted to stay here."

Ajmal tears through Hampshire

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Worcestershire spinner Saeed Ajmal ripped through Hampshire's middle and lower order with five wickets at New Road as the visitors were reduced to 171-9 at lunch - still trailing by 307 runs.

James Vince's half-century took Hampshire to 118-3, but once he was bowled by Joe Leach it triggered a collapse which saw five wickets fall for just 34.

It remains to be seen if Daryl Mitchell will enforce the follow-on once Hampshire are bowled out, but with a bit of rain around and in a must win game for the two sides at the bottom of Division One, it seems more than likely.

Lancashire 285-5 v Essex

Rain has again refused to relinquish its grip on proceedings at Old Trafford with just 7.2 overs bowled on the third morning.

There was time, however, for Lancashire skipper Steven Croft to reach his second century of the season and he was 100 not out at lunch with James Faulkner unbeaten on 50.

Their sixth-wicket partnership is currently worth 114.

Carvajal's contract renewal

Real Madrid

Thumbs up from Dani Carvajal.

The right-back, rocking the smart-casual look, has just signed an extension to his Real Madrid contract, keeping him at the Spanish giants until 2020.

Reading accept Chelsea bid for Kirby

Reuters

Reading FC Women have accepted a bid from Chelsea Ladies for England striker Fran Kirby, BBC Sport understands.

The 22-year-old is now free to speak to the Women's Super League One leaders.

She scored England's first goal at the Women's World Cup, in a 2-1 win over Mexico, and helped the Lionesses go on to finish third overall.

Murray match suspended

BBC

Now then. A familiar sight at Wimbledon as the rain comes, the covers go on and the brollies go up.

Andy Murray is 3-1 up in the first set against Vasek Pospisil but play is currently suspended. Keep up to date with the very latest from SW19 here.

'English football risks losing talented young players'

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Frank Lampard believes he would not get near the Chelsea first team if he was starting out as an 18-year-old today.

Lampard, now at MLS side New York City, had 13 years at the Blues.

"The way the Premier League is it's so competitive, it's not easy for young boys to break through," Lampard, 37, told BBC Sport's Alex South. "Those late teens early 20's, you can lose a young player."

Glamorgan 410-9 dec, Derbyshire 169-5

BBC Radio Wales Sport's Nick Webb at Chesterfield:

"Glamorgan put the Derbyshire batting under pressure in gloomy conditions, amid frequent stoppages for drizzle and poor light.

"Michael Hogan dismissed home skipper Wayne Madsen for 24 before former Derbyshire all-rounder Graham Wagg had Billy Godleman lbw for 53 and Wes Durston caught at slip for one.

"Alex Hughes and Shiv Thakor stopped the rot and survived until the lunch interval."

Middlesex 374 & 14-0, Nottinghamshire 419-9 dec

BBC London 94.9's Kevin Hand at Trent Bridge:

"An early lunch is being taken on the final day at Trent Bridge with Middlesex still trailing by 31 runs in their second innings.

"In the six overs of play that were possible during the morning, England Test hopeful Sam Robson, who is averaging only 29 this season, was dropped at second slip off Jake Ball.

"More rain is expected in the evening session and a draw is now the heavy favourite as only a wretched collapse by the visitors on a flat track could result in a victory for Nottinghamshire."

Get involved

Steve Cousins: I'd like to see Jurgen Klopp take over at Leicester City. Player wise - keep hold of Cambiasso and sign Gnabry from Arsenal.

Max Baggins-Craig: This talk of Di Maria moving: come to Rotherham Utd, that'd be ace for us.

Pay up

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Liverpool have been told they will have to pay £32.5m if they are to sign Aston Villa's Belgium striker Christian Benteke, the Daily Star reports.

From £25 to £5.5m

PA

A former Chelsea midfielder - who made £25 a week as a professional footballer in the 1950s - has scooped a £5.5m Lotto jackpot.

Terry Bradbury, 75, played alongside Jimmy Greaves and Terry Venables in the late 1950s. Mr Bradbury, who also made appearances for Southend United, Leyton Orient and Wrexham, won £5,517,016 in Saturday's National Lottery draw.

He and his wife Eleanor said they planned to buy a family villa in Spain.

Becks at Wimbledon

PA

Speaking of Andy Murray, David Beckham has dropped into Wimbledon to watch Britain's number one today with his son Romeo.

'Let's not talk about grunting'

And while we're talking - or perhaps should that be SHOUTING - tennis, Victoria Azarenka has defended her on-court grunting and insists former men's champion Rafael Nadal is louder than her.

The Belarusian was defeated in three sets by Serena Williams in the Wimbledon quarter-final but faced post-match questions not over that but about her noise levels.

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"I'm tired of these questions," she said. "It's annoying as guys grunt. I was practising next to Nadal and he grunts louder than me and nobody noticed it. Look at the good stuff.

"Stop bringing up this ridiculous stuff. Let's put aside the noise."

Murray at Wimbledon

We've not even mentioned Andy Murray yet but the man himself is only 10 minutes away from his attempt to make the men's semi-finals at Wimbledon.

He faces Vasek Pospisil on Centre Court at 13:00 BST and says he won't bank on his unseeded opponent being tired, despite the Canadian playing four five-set matches so far at the tournament.

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"He might be a little bit fatigued, but then again he's played so much tennis that he's going to be comfortable in the conditions and in a good rhythm," says Murray.

You'll find more in his BBC column here. Meanwhile our live coverage of men's quarter-finals day is already under way here.

Man Utd close in on defender

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Manchester United hope to complete the signing of Torino defender Matteo Darmian in time for him to be involved in their pre-season tour of the United States.

The club are not commenting on reports in Italy that an 18m Euro transfer has been concluded.

However, United manager Louis van Gaal is keen on the 25-year-old, who can play across the defence and started all Italy's matches at last summer's World Cup. And with negotiations at an advanced stage, it seems only a matter of time before an official announcement is made.

Arsenal Ladies sign Barcelona midfielder

Arsenal

Arsenal Ladies sign Spanish midfielder Marta Corredera from Barcelona.

The 23-year-old helped Barcelona to win four consecutive league titles between 2011 and 2015.

Sterling calls in sick

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Raheem Sterling failed to report for training at Melwood today after he phoned in this morning claiming he is sick, reports the Daily Mail.

The newspaper says Sterling was expected to report in this morning but he telephoned in to say he would be unable to make it as he was feeling unwell.

Sterling does not want to go on the forthcoming trip to the Far East after Liverpool rejected a £40m bid from Manchester City for him.

Swansea announce £22 away ticket prices

Swansea agree to subsidise ticket prices for every Premier League away game next season, meaning their fans will not pay more than £22 for a ticket.

A BBC Sport study revealed that Swansea fans travelled the longest distances in 2014-15, clocking up a total of 4,129.3 miles and an average of 217.3 per trip.

"As a fan-owned club, we are well aware of how expensive it is to follow the team to away games, especially with the increasing transport costs,'' says Swans Supporters Trust Director Huw Cooze.

"But this 'True to 22' pledge means an adult can now watch every one of our away games in the Premier League for a total price of £418. That's more than £250 cheaper per adult than the amount we believe it would cost this season without our subsidy."

And now Bell's gone

Oh dear. It's really not been a good start in Cardiff.

Ian Bell has just been trapped leg before for 1.

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England are 43-3. Gulp. This could be a long series.

Gary Ballance and Joe Root are at the crease. If ever the Yorkshire lads needed a big innings, it is now.

Coverage here.

Big earner

Ghana skipper Asamoah Gyan has touched down in China to complete his lucrative transfer to Shanghai SIPG.

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The 29-year-old striker was mobbed by fans at Shanghai airport and will undergo a medical before signing a contract with the Chinese Super League club.

Gyan, who had been playing for Emirati champions Al Ainwith will earn around £227,000-a-week at a club coached by former England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Cook walks

Bad news in the Ashes.

Skipper Alastair Cook has just been dismissed for 20.

Fellow opener Adam Lythe exited cheaply for 6 earlier, leaving England on 42-2 after the first hour of play and Australia on top.

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Live coverage continues here.

We want your club

Heard the one about the fans trying to buy their club?

If not, check this out. Blackpool Supporters' Trust (BST) explain the details of their £16m bid to buy League One side from the Oyston family to the BBC's North West Tonight programme.

BBC Sport

BST have made a £16m bid to take over the club, which would include the playing staff, the stadium and the training ground - with the Oystons keeping the remaining assets.

They have set a deadline on 21 July for a reply to their offer, but admit it is unlikely to be accepted.

BreakingSpurs to host NFL games

Tottenham

Tottenham confirm they have reached an agreement with the NFL to host two American football games per year at their new 61,000-capacity stadium over a 10-year period.

The stadium, due to open in the summer of 2018, will feature a retractable grass field with an artificial surface underneath that would be used for NFL games, Spurs confirm.

"With growing enthusiasm for the NFL in the United Kingdom, we are committed to hosting NFL games in world-class venues and are excited to partner with Tottenham Hotspur to play games at their future stadium," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Want Ruiz? Yours for £43m

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Sporting Lisbonhave signed Costa Rica forward Bryan Ruiz from Fulham on a three-year contract that includes a £43m buyout clause.

Ruiz, who joined the Cottagers for £10.6m from FC Twente in 2011, scored 13 times in 106 games for Fulham.

The London club took up an option in May to extend the 29-year-old's contract for another year, which allowed them to receive a fee for him.

Owen enters rehab

Wakefield winger Richard Owen has voluntarily agreed to enter a rehabilitation programme with the Sporting Chance Clinic.

The 25-year-old, who is in his first full season with the Wildcats, has appeared in 18 of 22 matches this season.

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However, he was left out of team for last Sunday's game at Hull by coach Brian Smith and has been placed on indefinite compassionate leave.

A statement from the club said: "In order to allow Richard to focus upon his recovery, the club has agreed, that Richard will be made unavailable for selection for the foreseeable future.

"The club would like to thank Sporting Chance and the RFL for the opportunity afforded to Richard to undertake such specialist treatment."

Gunners target staying put

Reported Arsenal target Nabil Fekir has committed his future to Ligue 1 club Lyon.

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The 21-year-old striker, who scored 13 league goals for Les Gones while making five appearances for France last season, has signed a contract extension at the Stade de Gerland.

Who is your ideal signing?

Alan Weaver: Looking forward to our next Academy superstar coming into the first team at Southampton FC.

Raymond Okpara: Man Utd need a right-back, a CB like Otamendi, Morgan Schneiderlin and Benteke or Lazcette.

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Dan Brombey: I would love to see Everton sign Chicharito Hernandez from Utd. He would be a match winner for us.

'I'm shocked'

Nick Kyrgios says he has been "shocked" at the level of criticism he has received following his Wimbledon exit.

The 20-year-old Australian was accused of not trying in parts of his fourth round loss to Richard Gasquet.

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"I've read a whole lot. Comments like 'he shouldn't be representing Australia', 'he's a disgrace'. It's tough to read. I'm human," he said.

"I don't really want them to love me. I don't want their love, but everyone deserves respect.

"I'm just shocked with what's happened. I'm just really shocked on how people have responded and reacted and what they've said."

Commentators' cut out and keep

Tottenham

AL-DER-WHERE-ELD.

Got it? Not Alderwild, not Alderwildy.

Fresh from joining Tottenham, Toby Alderweireld has moved quickly to clear up how you actually pronounce his name. No excuses for getting it wrong next season.

David Luiz's tears

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Remember this moment? One year ago today, World Cup hosts Brazil crashed out of the tournament they hosted, losing 7-1 to Germany.

BBC

Sterling's reputation 'is being damaged'

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Ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher says Raheem Sterling's reputation is being impacted after he asked to be left out of the club's pre-season tour.

The forward, 20, does not want to go on the forthcoming trip to the Far East after Liverpool rejected a £40m bid from Manchester City for him. The Reds travel to Bangkok on Sunday then fly on to Australia and Malaysia.

"He's starting to get a reputation that could be hard to rid himself of in the future," said Carragher. "Are Man City fans looking at the situation and thinking this could be us in a few years?"

In the dark

Swindon boss Mark Cooper says he does not know whether Sheffield Wednesday have made an approach for him.

The 48-year-old has been linked with the role of assistant manager under new Owls head coach Carlos Carvalhal.

Empics

Cooper, who led the Robins to the League One play-off final last season, has a year left on his deal.

"Speculation was rife and I was linked to the job. I don't know if there was an approach. It's up to the chairman to comment on," he told BBC Wiltshire. "Nothing should surprise you in football. I've got a job to do, another season to go and I'm really looking forward to it."

Ashes under way

The start of play in the Ashes had been delayed slightly due to some dodgy weather. But it is beginning right now, at 11:15 BST. Don't forget we have full coverage here.

Here's a little flavour of what's been happening so far this morning...

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PA

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Two-horse race

Newcastle face competition from Everton as they attempt to capture Holland international Georginio Wijnaldum.

The Magpies have spent several weeks engaged in discussions with PSV Eindhoven over the highly-rated midfielder, with managing director Lee Charnley understood to have travelled to Holland on Tuesday in another attempt to secure a deal.

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However, PA Sport is reporting that the Magpies have so far failed to agree terms with the club or the player, and now Everton have formalised their interest in him.

Toffees' midfielder James McCarthy has been linked with a big-money move to Tottenham this summer and Wijnaldum would represent a worthy replacement should that deal happen.

Manquillo sent back

Spanish defender Javier Manquillo has returned to Atletico Madrid after his two-year loan at Liverpool was terminated early.

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The Spanish club have confirmed that the 21-year-old has been recalled and the deal cancelled by mutual consent because he did not get sufficient game time during his first season at Anfield.

Playing at right-back, Manquillo initially made a positive impression at the Reds but fell out of favour and did not play again in the Premier League after December.

County Championship Division Two

With just 70 overs having been bowled across the first two days at Old Trafford, Lancashire will continue on 257-5 in their first innings against Essex, while in Chesterfield Derbyshire are 122-2 in reply to Glamorgan's first-innings 410-9.

The match between Gloucestershire and Northants is due to get under way at Cheltenham at 11:00 BST.

County Championship Division One

It's not just the Ashes happening in the cricket world today you know.

Division One leaders Yorkshire will hope to press for victory over Warwickshire on the final day, with the Bears set to resume on 43-1, trailing by 391.

Sussex will also be aiming to force a result against Somerset, having closed day three on 311-2, thanks in part to Matt Machan's unbeaten 137, leading their visitors by 245.

A draw looks most likely between Middlesex and Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge, with the away side 7-0 in their second innings, 38 runs behind, while Hampshire will resume on 86-3 on the third day, replying to Worcestershire's 478.

Given going to Middlesbrough?

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Middlesbrough are set to complete the signing of Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given.

The 39-year-old Republic of Ireland international is in the final year of his contract at Villa Park, but is expected to be released from his deal.

Given spent three months on loan at Boro during the 2013-14 season.

England v Australia (First Test, 11:00 BST)

Play starts at 11:00 BST. England have won the toss and are batting. Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be good. Full coverage here.

BBC Sport

Moving on

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The Sun: Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas, 34, has agreed to leave Real Madrid for Porto - paving the way for Manchester United's David De Gea to move to the Bernabeu.

Hat's the way to do it

Some big breaking news.

You know how a moment ago we told you we'd never seen Claudio Ranieri wearing a hat? We we wrong. We've just found this.

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Chelsea training session, 2004. The only known picture of Mr R in a hat.

Sportsday, proud to bring you all the big news first.

Who is your ideal signing?

Marty Storton: Marco Reus for Manchester City would be brilliant.

Jack: Would love to see Ivan Rakitic at Man Utd, slick passer and knows how to mount an attack perfect replacement for Carrick.

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Ash Finney: Jordan Rhodes at Sheffield Wednesday!

Ranieri to Leicester?

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Claudio Ranieri is one of the bookies' favourites to become the next manager of Leicester City, reports the Leicester Mercury.

The 63-year-old former Chelsea boss is listed at 8-1 to take up the hot seat at the King Power Stadium.

"Money has been placed on Ranieri after he threw his hat into the ring to take over from Nigel Pearson who was sacked on 30 June," said the newspaper.

I have never seen Ranieri wearing a hat. True story.

England v Australia (First Test, 11:00 BST)

BBC Sport

Ashes hero to retire

While the Ashes gets under way in Cardiff shortly - it starts at 11:00 BST; full coverage here - one of the heroes of England's 2005 winning side has announced he is to retire at the end of the season.

Geraint Jones - who has also relinquished the Gloucestershire captaincy - played all five Tests in England's historic victory over Australia 10 years ago.

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The 38-year-old wicketkeeper said: "It's been something I've been thinking about quite strongly in the last few weeks and I've come to the decision that this season will be my last as a cricket player."

Footballer dies during pre-season game

A player has died after collapsing during a non-league pre-season game.

Junior Dian, 24, was on trial with Tonbridge Angels when he collapsed with 20 minutes left of the second half of their game at Whyteleafe on Tuesday.

Dian died in hospital in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

"This is devastating news and our only crumb of comfort is that Junior lost his life doing something he obviously enjoyed so much," said Tonbridge chairman Steve Churcher.

Suspension for Stallings

American Scott Stallings has been suspended by the PGA Tour for three months for violating its anti-drug policy.

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Stallings - the world number 154 - reported himself to the Tour after realising a supplement he had been taking to combat chronic fatigue was prohibited.

"I discovered in February 2015 that I had inadvertently taken a supplement for the prior two months that was not permitted by the PGA Tour," Stallings said in a statement.

"I regret my inadvertent mistake in not doing my homework to know for sure what was on the list of permitted and non-permitted substances. I take responsibility and accept the penalty imposed by the PGA Tour."

Who is your ideal signing?

Talha Daji: As a Chelsea fan John Terry is old, we need sign someone like Varane, also need a back up for Matic, 3 games without him 3 losses.

John Michael Gibson: Ideal signing for Man Utd would be Cavani. We need strikers with RVP and Hernandez rumoured to be on the way out.

Shanmugaraja CK: Arsenal need to sign Cavarlho and Benzema.If Wenger doesn't we'll still be 'improving' squad, not 'complete'.

What's for breakfast Fernando?

BreakingSpurs sign Alderweireld

Tottenham sign defender Toby Alderweireld on a five-year contract from Atletico Madrid.

The 26-year-old was on loan at Southampton last season and the Saints had an option to make the deal permanent for £6.8m. However, they have lost their battle to sign the Belgian.

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"I'm very proud to be a Tottenham player. I'm happy to be here and hope to have a wonderful time with this team," he said.

Alderweireld made 26 Premier League appearances for Southampton last season, and was also reported to interest Manchester City.

USA, USA, USA

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The United States women's team held a rally in LA on Tuesday to celebrate their World Cup success. USA beat Japan 5-2 in Sunday's final.

As you can see, selfie sticks and exuberant costumes were out in force.

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Seagulls sign Finland goalkeeper

Brighton have signed Finland international goalkeeperNiki Maenpaa following his release by Dutch club VVV-Venlo.

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The 30-year-old former RC Lens stopper was a free agent after spending three seasons with Venlo, including one Eredivisie campaign.

"Like all our other recruits this summer, Niki's got plenty of top-flight experience, including games at international level," said boss Chris Hughton.

Who is your ideal signing?

PA

Bring back Ruud?

Fraser Bernstein: My beloved Spurs could do with another striker. Lacazette from Lyon would be ideal... maybe too optimistic?

Cormac Flanagan: Wolves definitely need a new LM after Sako leaving so I would sign Zaha

Murtaza Ali Khan: MUFC has a Ramos-De Gea saga to solve but we really need a good striker. Someone like Van Nistelrooy. Reckon a CR7 return?

Cabaye set for Crystal Palace

David Ornstein

BBC Sport

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"Crystal Palace are close to completing the club-record signing of Paris St-Germain and France midfielder Yohan Cabaye.

"Palace and the Ligue 1 champions have agreed a fee in the region of £10m, rising to around £13m with add-ons.

"There is also an agreement in principle over personal terms and Cabaye is expected to undergo a medical in the next 48 hours."

Is Cabaye your ideal signing Palace fans? Let us know via #bbcsportsday.

Who is your ideal signing?

Where does the time go, eh?

The start of the new football season is just one month away and it will be here before you know it. The wheels of the transfer window have been slowly grinding but you would expect things to step up a gear in the next couple of weeks.

With that in mind, we want you to tell us your club, the position you need to strengthen and who your ideal signing would be (realistically!)

Send in your thoughts to #bbcsportsday, text in on 81111 or have your say on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Print your own Ronaldo

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What's going on here then!?

Apparently, this is a 3D-printed version of Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo, unveiled at a promotional event in Tokyo.

Have to admit, that is pretty good likeness. Even down to the 3D-printed CR7 pants...

Big price-tag slapped on Dzeko

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The Times: Manchester City have told Roma that Bosnia striker Edin Dzeko will cost them £20m.

Roma are willing to offer the 29-year-old a five-year contract but are also keeping tabs on Everton striker Romelu Lukaku.

Kobe praises CoCo

Teamwork the key for Worcestershire T20 success

PA

Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes says that his side's success so far in this summer's T20 Blast is down to teamwork.

Going into this Friday night's sell-out Midlands derby clash at New Road, Worcestershire lie second only to the Birmingham Bears in the North Group.

Victory for Worcestershire, on 14 points from seven games, would take them ahead of their local rivals.

"It's always a great occasion whenever we play Warwickshire and, on the day, anybody can beat anybody. All I ask is that we keep playing as we have been to win seven out of our first 10 games," said Rhodes

Ruiz's giant buyout clause

Now then, here is a story that may make you raise your eyes a little.

Sporting Lisbon have signed Costa Rica forward Bryan Ruiz from Fulham on a three-year contract ... a deal that includes a whopping £43m buyout clause.

Ruiz, who joined the Cottagers for £10.6m from FC Twente in 2011, scored 13 times in 106 games for Fulham.

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The London club took up an option in May to extend the 29-year-old's contract for another year, which allowed them to receive a fee for him.

Ruiz played 32 times for the Championship club last season.

Final resting place

The ashes of record-breaking racehorse Kauto Star are to rest underneath his statue at Kempton Park, says owner Clive Smith.

Kauto Star, a two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, won the King George VI Chase at Kempton in Surrey an unprecedented five times.

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The horse, trained by Paul Nicholls in Somerset, switched to dressage after retiring from racing in October 2012.

Kauto Star was put down aged 15 last week following complications after a fall in a field at rider Laura Collett's Berkshire stables.

Sterling a no-go

Phil McNulty

BBC chief football writer

"Raheem Sterling has asked to be left out of Liverpool's forthcoming pre-season tour to the Far East as he attempts to push through a £50m move to Manchester City.

"The unsettled 20-year-old has once again made it clear to Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers that he wants to leave Anfield after reporting back for pre-season preparations at their Melwood training headquarters on Monday.

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"Liverpool travel to Bangkok this Sunday then fly on to Australia and Malaysia as part of a two-week trip.

"Sterling has expressed his desire not to go on the tour in the hope of making a smoother exit from Anfield after an increasingly acrimonious saga in which he has turned down a contract offer of around £100,000-a-week.

"Liverpool have refused to comment on claims Sterling will refuse to travel with the squad but Liverpool are expected to demand that every player who is fit and available for selection join up on Sunday."

Frank talking

As well as David Beckham, Frank Lampard has also faced the US media and, among many other things, made a point of saying he feels "lucky" to be in the same New York City team as Andrea Pirlo.

The ex-Chelsea and Manchester City player, 37, was unveiled by New York on Tuesday ahead of his Major League Soccer debut versus Toronto on 12 July.

New York City FC on Twitter

New York have also added 115-cap Italian Pirlo, 36, from Juventus to a squad already including David Villa.

"David and Andrea are at the top of the list, I'm a lucky man to be in the same squad as them," said Lampard.

"I've been watching all the games. I know every player and how they play. It will be a pleasure to play with them every day."

England v Australia (First Test, 11:00 BST)

BBC Sport

Middlesbrough sign defender Baptiste

Middlesbrough have signed defender Alex Baptiste from fellow Championship club Bolton Wanderers on a three-year deal.

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The 29-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Blackburn, is Boro's first new addition of the summer.

Baptiste, who played in the Premier League for Blackpool in 2010-11, has made more than 400 senior appearances during his professional career.

The versatile defender had a year remaining on his contract with Wanderers, having joined in July 2013.

Champions League hat-trick

A morning football teaser for you.

Who was the last Englishman to score a Champions League hat-trick on English soil?

Actually, to save you thinking, we'll give you the answer - Mike Wilde, of The New Saints of Oswestry, last night.

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Birkenhead-born Wilde hit a second-leg treble for the Shropshire-based side in Tuesday night's 4-1 win over Faroe Islands side B36 Torshavn at Park Hall.

The Welsh Premier League champions' 6-2 aggregate victory earns them a two-leg second qualifying round clash with Hungarian side Videoton, once European conquerors of Manchester United in the 1984-85 UEFA Cup.

The first leg is back in Oswestry next Tuesday night (14 July), the second leg in Hungary the following week.

United aim to wrap up deal

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Manchester United are hopeful of signing Southampton's France midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, 25, before flying to the United States on Monday, report The Guardian.

It's a wild life

While we're talking cricket, anyone know why there is a picture of captains Alastair Cook and Michael Clarke standing in front of what appears to be an inflatable zebra?

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No, we've no idea either.

England v Australia (First Test, 11:00 BST)

Well, as we may have mentioned once or twice already, it's the day we've all been waiting for.

England take on Australia in the Ashes, aiming to get revenge for the 5-0 drubbing Down Under 18 months ago.

Here is the first of a few snippets to get you in the mood.

BBC Sport

Remember, our live text coverage begins shortly at 09:00 BST.

Pep wanted Brazil job

Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola wanted to coach Brazil at last year's World Cup, says defender Dani Alves.

The Barcelona full-back said his former boss at the Nou Camp had a plan to make the hosts world champions again.

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But Alves claimed Brazilian football officials were afraid of hiring a foreign coach for the national side.

"Pep said he wanted to make Brazil a World Cup champion and had an entire strategy to make us a world champion," the 32-year-old told ESPN Brasil. "They didn't want it, because they said that they didn't know if Brazil would accept a foreign coach."

Should he stay or should he go?

An interesting story courtesy of Aston Villa new boy Micah Richards, who has revealed that Fabian Delph has asked him for his thoughts following reported interest from Manchester City.

England midfielder and Villa captain Delph has been linked with an £8m summer switch to City.

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Richards, a former Blues star himself, said: "It's tough isn't it? If he's got guarantees to play... He's been unbelievable for Aston Villa.

"Every player wants to play at the highest level. If he's going to be playing Champions League... I don't know, but if he's going there to be a squad player, then no."

On me 'ead son

This is how the England cricket team warmed up for the Ashes yesterday.

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Rory McIlroy might be in touch to suggest this is not a good idea.

Rolling back the years

Back to the cricket and England captain Alastair Cook has challenged his players to reignite the cricketing fervour of 2005 when the Ashes get under way.

Cricket has struggled to consistently captivate the nation since England won back the urn in a thrilling 2-1 series victory over Australia 10 years ago.

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But Cook believes England have the players to excite the public as they attempt to avenge a 5-0 defeat down under in 2013-14.

"We've got an opportunity," said Cook. "That's the exciting thing. This is the biggest series you want to play in as a player. With Wimbledon going on, it's a great summer of sport and we want to be part of that."

On which theme, check out this feature by BBC chief sports writer Tom Fordyce, who wonder whether English cricket ever regain its 2005 lustre.

Advice from Dave

Steven Gerrard has been speaking to the media in America for the first time and has revealed former England team-mate David Beckham was a key factor in his move to LA Galaxy.

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Beckham spent five years in Los Angeles and won the MLS Cup in his final match with them in December 2012.

Gerrard, 34, is set to make his debut in a friendly against Mexican side Club America on Saturday.

"David is a hero of mine, a fantastic guy, a wonderful footballer, certainly someone I leaned on for advice before I decided to come here," he said.

Ameobi heads to Wales

Some transfer news from overnight.... Newcastle's Sammy Ameobi has joined Cardiff on a season-long loan deal after signing a new two-year contract at St James' Park.

The 23-year-old, who was out of contract at the end of last month, put pen to paper on a two-year deal before heading for South Wales.

To celebrate here's a pic of Sammy wiping his nose.

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Anyone got a tissue?

Here we go

There's no other way to start today's Sportsday than with volleyball.

Just a joke. We meant cricket, of course. It's the Ashes, the one we've all been waiting for, England v Australia, one of sport's most celebrated rivalries that dates back to 1882.

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The first of a five-Test series kicks off in Cardiff at 11:00 BST today and the fans have been turning up at the ground since 6 this morning.

You can follow ball-by-ball Test Match Special commentary on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra, Radio 4 LW, online, tablets, mobiles and BBC Sport app. We'll have live text commentary on the BBC Sport website from 09:00.

Ooo, exciting isn't it...

Wednesday's papers

Mirror

And finally - yep, you've guessed it - a spot more cricket to finish, with Sir Ian Botham chipping in with some advice.

Wednesday's papers

Daily Mail

Back to the cricket and a rather dramatic back page in the Mail...

Wednesday's papers

The Sun

Hang on, what's this? A non-cricket back page. Blimey, big call from The Sun. But it is a decent story - the paper claiming Raheem Sterling has told Liverpool he won't go on their pre-season tour as he attempts to force through a £50m switch to Man City.

Wednesday's papers

Daily Telegraph

Wednesday's papers

The Times

Wednesday's papers

Independent

A lovely shot of the tiniest trophy in world sport in the Independent. Hope they don't leave it out on the pitch, someone might step on it.

Wednesday's papers

Daily Express

As you'd expect, it's pretty much cricket all the way in the papers today, with a particular focus on how England captain Alastair Cook, sometimes criticised for being a little predictable and defensive in the field, will approach the Ashes series.

Bring me sunshine

Problem is, at the moment the weather is a bit like this.

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According to the BBC weather experts it's because there's a north-west wind blowing in from the Antarctic. Indeed in some places in the UK today, it's 8 degrees colder than it was 24 hours ago.

Typical that it happens on one of the best sporting days of the summer thus far.

Anyway, enough moaning. The good news is that it's going to get better as the day progresses, so let's have a look at the papers while we're waiting for Mr Sunshine to show his pesky face.

Morning all

So then, there's not much happening today.

Well, apart from the start of this.

PA

Oh, and then this chap is in action.

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And then, of course, there's loads of football transfer news, with Man United still trying to sign this fella.

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But apart from that absolutely nothing.

Welcome to Sportsday, we're here all day - and it's going to be a belter.