Sportsday - rolling football news

1. 13 Premier League news conferences
2. GET INVOLVED Phil McNulty Q&A

Have a sport-filled weekend!

That's all from us - but it promises to back another packed weekend of sport right across the BBC.

I'd recommend you go straight to live coverage of the Rugby World Cup, with the opening ceremony and all the build up to the first game between England and Fiji.

Enjoy!

Tick tock

Just hours away from the start of the Rugby World Cup at Twickenham.

England take on Fiji in the opening game, and everyone who is anyone is getting a dose of World Cup fever....

Chapman agrees new Blues deal

Chelsea Ladies skipper Katie Chapman has agreed a new two-year contract with the Women's Super League One leaders.

The 33-year-old was also a member of England's squad at the World Cup earlier this year, playing five games as they finished third. 

Gett

You need to stay in that bubble

Former England winger Mark Cueto says Stuart Lancaster's squad need to avoid any distractions if they are to life the William Webb Ellis trophy.

“A lot of the time you’re in a bit of a bubble and you need to stay in that bubble because I think if you come out and you see everything that’s going on and you see the anticipation and excitement, it could potentially be a bigger weight on the shoulders than you want.”

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"Today will be a long day, they’ll be itching to get out on that field as soon as they can and so wait until 8pm for kick off tonight," he added. 

"There’s a little bit of disruption around the warm up with their usual routine, they won’t be able to go out on the pitch but they’ll be prepared for that and hopefully it won’t affect them at kick off.”

Ansari misses Lord's final

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Surrey all-rounder Zafar Ansari will miss Saturday's One-Day Cup final against Gloucestershire at Lord's after dislocating his thumb while fielding.

The 23-year-old suffered the injury during the Championship match against Lancashire, just hours after he was named in England's squad for the Test series against Pakistan in the UAE.

GB qualify for Rio Paralympics

Great Britain's wheelchair rugby team have qualified for the Rio Paralympics by beating Germany 53-40 in the semi-finals of the European Championships.

The top two teams from the Championships qualify - the other semi is between Denmark and Sweden and is still ongoing.

Danny Care wishes Ben Youngs well

Danny Carehas sent a message of support to his fellow scrum-halfBen Youngs, who will line up for England against Fiji tonight.

Hamilton fourth in Singapore GP practice

Lewis Hamilton was only fourth fastest in second practice at the Singapore Grand Prix as Red Bull's Daniil Kvyat set the pace.

Both Mercedes, so dominant in 2015, had a low-key session, as Hamilton's team-mate Nico Rosberg was seventh.

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Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen was second fastest ahead of Kvyat's team-mate Daniel Ricciardo as the top three drivers were covered by only 0.114secs.

Hamilton was 0.337secs off the pace, ahead of Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel.

Yorkshire tour extension rejected

Matt Slater

BBC Sport

British Cycling has rejected an application to extend the Tour de Yorkshire to a fourth day next year.

The decision, taken by the governing body's board on Monday, comes only days after Prime Minister David Cameron backed plans for an extra day.

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"We've nothing but the highest regard for British Cycling," said Sir Gary Verity, the chief executive of co-organisers Welcome to Yorkshire.

"But we are disappointed by the decision not to support our plans."

Ones to watch

BBC Sport picks a dozen players to watch out for at the Rugby World Cup, which starts on 18 September.

The tournament starts tonight with hosts England facing Fiji.

BBC

There will be live commentaries on BBC Radio 5 live and sports extra plus live text commentary on every match on the BBC Sport website.

For the latest rugby union news, follow @bbcrugbyunion  on Twitter.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Bamba A Kanyi: What's the differences from when English clubs were dominant?

I think the tide was already starting to turn in the late 2000s, Bamba. Remember what a mess Barcelona made of Manchester United in the 2009 Champions League final and again two years later? 

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I think there has been a decline in the quality of the English sides and just look at the players at Real Madrid, with Cristiano Ronaldo, who they took from Manchester United, and of course football's greatest forward line at Barcelona with Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar.

They have improved while the English teams are not as good. Fairly simple, actually.

Evans two sets down

Dan Evans loses a second set tie-break to Bernard Tomic in the second rubber of Great Britiain's Davis Cup semi-final with Australia.

There's live coverage of the match right here.

You can also watch the highlights of Andy Murray's win over Thanasi Kokkinakis in the first rubber.

Valcke tried to secure 'ludicrous' Fifa pay-off

Jerome Valcketried to secure a pay-off of several million pounds fromFifa, just a week before he was suspended.

AP

Fifa's secretary general, was suspended by the world governing body on Thursday, pending an investigation into allegations he was implicated in a World Cup tickets scheme. He has denied any wrongdoing.

Valcke's contract had three years to run and it is understood he wanted to be paid out in full for the remainder of the deal A senior Fifa official described Valcke's demands as ludicrous.

England players worst habits?

They are club and country team-mates as well as flatmates - but how well do Bath and England pair Jonathan Joseph and Anthony Watson know each other?

Ahead of tonight's Rugby World Cup opener against Fiji, BBC Points West get the pair to battle it out in a special edition of 'Team-mates'.

Watch it here.

Evans battles back

Bernard Tomic of Australia is serving to stay in the second set 5-6 down against Dan Evans .

The Brit battled back from losing the first set and being a break down in the second - you can follow that match live right here.

Murray available for doubles

Andy Murray has been speaking to the media, while craning his neck to try and keep track of Dan Evans' progress on the big screen, and confirmed that he is up for doubles selection. 

While pointing out it is Leon Smith's decision and not his, Murray says: "I think everyone in the team wants to play, wants to try and help."  

Ask Phil...

Dominic Clarke: Will the Arsenal board ever sack Arsene Wenger and bring in a manager that will get good players?

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I do not believe the Arsenal board will sack Arsene Wenger - I think he will only leave Arsenal at a time of his choosing. I am not saying this is right, although I should stress I'm not advocating his sacking either, but you've asked me what I think and that is what I think.

I am a huge Wenger admirer but, on your second point, I believe he has made a very big error by not signing a quality defensive midfield player and, even more importantly, a striker in the transfer window. Time will tell just how big.

Pucker up

You don't catch many former US presidents doing this.

Buit Jimmy Carter, 90, and his wife wife Rosalynn were caught on the 'Kiss Cam' at a baseball match in Atlanta.

Manchester United news conference

Louis van Gaal has been explaining the challenge Manchester United face coping without left-back Luke Shaw for the next few months after his double leg break.

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“Memphis and Shaw were a very good combination, and now you have to build up a new combination. You have to start again and that is difficult.

"It’s also difficult for the player who has to replace him. But we have in Blind, Rojo and in Ashley Young, good replacements.”

Play to resume at 5.30pm

After heavy rain stopped play between Europe and the USA earlier, the fourballs in the Solheim Cup will resume at 5.30pm.

BBC

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Stuart Massie: Do you agree Louis van Gaal peaked in 1994?

Well, seeing as he won the Champions League with Ajax in 1995, probably not.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Nick Seddon: With Luke Shaw looking a serious doubt for the Euros, do you think it's a duel between Kieran Gibbs and Leighton Baines for England's left-back role, or do you think someone else like Joe Gomez could stake a claim? 

Gomez has looked excellent for Liverpool but he has shown - perfectly understandable - signs of inexperience.

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Left-back is not his natural position and it would be asking an awful lot to suggest he is an international defender just yet. I'm convinced he will be an England star of the future - though maybe not at left-back.

What is beyond dispute was that Luke Shaw's injury was a serious blow for himself, Manchester United and England. I felt the left-back position had become his to lose. 

Now, I suspect it will be between Gibbs and Baines, although Baines is out for a long while as well after ankle surgery. 

Evans v Tomic - live

Manchester United news conference

Ben Smith

BBC Sport

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It is never dull when Louis van Gaal is around.

He looked genuinely concerned as he explained more about the injury to Luke Shaw, admitting it was a "big loss". But he became more spiky when questioned about Marcos Rojo and whether the Argentine was back in the good books having missed much of United's pre-season tour because he forgot his passport. 

Always interesting, always colourful, usually unpredictable. Rather like his team.

Manchester United news conference

Ben Smith

BBC Sport

Van Gaal was very spiky on Ronald Koeman, would not say whether he would join the Southampton manager for a post-match glass of wine. They fell out some years back.

Manchester Utd news conference

Ben Smith

BBC Sport

Louis van Gaal has been amazed byLuke Shaw'spositive attitude after his double leg break.

The United youngster could fly back to Manchester as early as tomorrow, but the Dutchman admits he is facing a long road back.

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"I called him last evening," Van Gaal said." He sounds very strong. Amazing for me. Big surprise. A good thing."

"Maybe he shall come back tomorrow. Then a long period of rehabilitaiton. Still a long way to go. I am always saying that it is not physical but also mental."  

Manchester United news conference

Ben Smith

BBC Sport

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Wayne Rooney has overcome his injury problems and is fit to start as Manchester United prepare to travel to Southampton this week. 

When asked if Rooney was ready to return, United manager Louis van Gaal said: "Yes. It was a minor injury you don't want to take any risks. Now he has had his treatment. I think he can start."

Moreno adamant he got the ball

Hector Moreno has once again apologised for injuring Luke Shaw but claimed, “I got the ball”.

The PSV defender broke Shaw’s leg in the first half of Manchester United’s 2-1 Champions League defeat in Eindhoven on Tuesday.

Reuters

Shaw underwent an operation and faces months on the sidelines, but an otherwise incredibly apologetic Moreno still insists that his tackle was fair.

“No, no, I got the ball,” he told Dutch newspaper Eindhoven Dagblad. “I looked back to see where the ball went and it was above the goal."

Manchester United news conference

Ben Smith

BBC Sport

Not long now until we hear from Manchester United's enigmatic managerLouis van Gaal. 

Plenty to talk about this week following the injury to Luke Shaw. Aside from that we have Wayne Rooney's fitness, and the manager's relationship with his opposite number this weekend, Ronald Koeman. 

We will bring you all the news of what has been said, sung and otherwise just after 16:00 BST.

Play suspended

Iain Carter

BBC Sport in Heidelberg

Play was suspended at 16:25 local time (15:25 BST) because of the threat of lightning. It’s been raining for the past 10 minutes and the water-table is high after the pounding the course has already taken this week.  

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For Europe, Anna Nordqvist has been the star of the afternoon with five birdies.  Along with fellow Swede Caroline Hedwall she has opened a four-hole lead after 10 holes against Morgan Pressel and Paula Creamer.

Charley Hull is also in fine form and she and Gwladys Nocera are two-up on Alison Lee and Angela Stanford after nine. Cristie Kerr and Lexi Thompson look a formidable pairing and they are two-up after eight against Melissa Reid and Carlotta Ciganda.  

The bottom match is all square after eight holes. The outcome of the contest that pits Sandra Gal and Caroline Masson against Gerina Piller and Brittany Lang may decide the balance of play on this first day. The weather needs to improve first, though.

Man Utd news conference

Louis van Gaal's revealed Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney is fit to return against Southampton on Sunday, while defender Phil Jones is back in training after suffering with mild thrombosis.

Play suspended

A torrential downpour has stopped play at the Solheim Cup.

The score it tied at 2-2 after the morning foursomes, with Europe ahead in two, down in one and level in one of the afternoon fourballs.

Stoke City news conference

Matt Sandoz

Stoke City commentator, BBC Radio Stoke

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Mark Hughes was asked if he was feeling the pressure after a winless start. Seems an odd question for a manager who has guided Stoke City to two top 10 finishes in consecutive seasons. 

Yes the Potters start has been far from ideal, but there is circumstances behind Stoke’s current bottom three position. 

All the talk is about Leicester City ahead of tomorrows game, but Stoke City are more than a match for anyone. It can only be a matter of time before they finally click.

Mata picks his Man Utd all-time XI

Manchester United winger Juan Mata has picked his all-time Reds XI (not including his current team mates)  - do you agree with his selection?

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Foo Qiren: Do you think retrospective actions on fouls/misbehaviour committed by players by the relevant authorities is the way forward, even if match officials have seen the incidents and deem heavier punishments unnecessary?

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I would be perfectly comfortable with the idea of retrospective punishment for incidents that have been missed by officials - and also those that have been seen and punished by officials but actually may have required greater sanctions.

While I understand that some say you shouldn't re-referee the game, I am all in favour of greater punishment being handed out to offenders if the initial punishment clearly does not suffice.

Former Bayern coach Cramer dies

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Sad news from Germany, where former Bayern Munich coach Dettmar Cramer has died at the age of 90. 

Cramer led the Bavarians to back-to-back European Cup triumphs in 1975 and 1976, adding the Club World Cup in 1976 with a team including the likes of Franz Beckenbauer, Sepp Maier, Uli Hoeness and Gerd Muller.

Murray puts GB ahead in Davis Cup

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Andy Murray beats Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-3 6-0 6-3 to give Britain a 1-0 lead, in the best-of-five Davis Cup semi-final against Australia, in Glasgow.

Zico on Neymar

World Cup milestone

Question time

A Question of Sport Teaser

You might recall that we asked which three teams have played in a Rugby World Cup semi-final but never in the final.

The answer... Argentina, Scotland and Wales.

Bale has a 'little injury'

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Rafael Benitez held his news conference today and was asked about Gareth Bale, who limped out of Real's 4-0 Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk in midweek.

Benitez expects Bale to be out for two to three weeks with a calf injury.

“It is a little injury, it is not serious and our experience makes us optimistic because he recovered well last time."

Newcastle news conference

Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul is calling on his team mates to stand up and be counted - starting tomorrow...

Newcastle news conference

Bad news for Newcastle in defence

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Simon Bradley: Which Premier League clubs do you think will be relegated this season?

Well, I did my Premier League predictions and went for Watford, Norwich City and Leicester City. Not looking too clever now is it? But I have to stand by those for good and bad.

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If you asked me if I would worry about clubs I didn't originally predict for the drop, I would put Sunderland right in that category. Still have a feeling Bournemouth will improve but they need more threat and the long-term injury to Max Gradel was a cruel blow.

Don't ask me about Newcastle... I gave up on predictions there a very long time ago.

Bournemouth news conference

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Eddie Howewas asked about Sunderland strikerJermain Defoeand defenderJohn O'Shea,who both had loan spells at the club during his time as a Bournemouth player.

"He is the best finisher of a ball I've ever seen," he said of Defoe. "We will have to keep him quiet."

And of O'Shea, he added: "I could immediately see how good John was. Playing alongside him was a great experience and something that helped me learn as well."

Newcastle news conference

Stoke news conference

No panic from Mark Hughes, despiteStokebeing in the bottom three.....

Stoke news conference

Hughes is also full of praise for Leicester and their manager Claudio Ranieri - but not the Italian's idea to buy pizza for his players...

Newcastle news conference

And finally Steve McClaren, some news on his injury list..

Stoke news conference

Sounds like Mark Hughes has plenty of options to call upon for their game with Leicester at the Britannia Stadium...

Bournemouth news conference

Eddie Howe on Sunderland:  "They were unlucky to lose to Tottenham last week. They have a number of good players and a strong manager. They will pose a big threat.

"We are under no illusions that these games are huge for us. They could set a platform for the rest our season. We know that." 

Stoke news conference

Stoke boss Mark Hughes has begun talking to the media ahead of their game with Leicester.

The Potters have taken just two points from their opening five games.

Newcastle news conference

More from Newcastle manager Steve McClaren...

Newcastle news conference

Newcastle manager Steve McClaren has been holding his news conference and reacting to the defeat to Monday's West Ham which left his side bottom of the table.

Bournemouth news conference

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Eddie Howe has arrived and starts by talking about how his players have reacted to defeat at Norwich last weekend...

"They've come back well - the players always do," he said. "Confidence can be a fragile thing and our players have very good mental strength and character. They'll come out fighting on Saturday."

Southampton news conference

Saints boss Ronald Koeman has been speaking ahead of their match with Manchester United on Sunday, but also faced questions about his own future.

Southampton news conference

Koeman was also asked about two former Southampton players now at Manchester United - Luke Shaw and Morgan Schneiderlin...

Southampton news conference

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman says there is "no issue" between himself and Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal, so he will offer him a glass of wine after Sunday's game.

GB v Australia

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Jed Shaw: What do you feel Liverpool need to do to try to make the top four? What areas and specific players need to play, and do you think Brendan Rodgers should be sacked?

Let me answer your last question first, Jed. No, I don't think Brendan Rodgers should be sacked. Liverpool are only five league games into the season and the owners FSG invested heavily in him in the summer.

Having said that (here we go), Brendan will know as well as anyone that he needs to have Liverpool looking at least like they can be top- four contenders and no-one would expect FSG to oversee a long run of poor results without acting.

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I think central defence remains a serious problem and I am unconvinced by the partnership of Martin Skrtel and Dejan Lovren - £20m was an utterly ridiculous amount of money to spend on him.

Phillipe Coutinho is the player who makes Liverpool tick and they need him on top form, while Rodgers will have to work out how to make a partnership between Christian Benteke and Daniel Sturridge when the latter is finally fit.

West Brom news conference

Mike Taylor

BBC WM

Tony Pulis is delighted to have been able to focus on his team for a full week for the first time this season, with no distractions from transfer windows, unsettled strikers or international breaks.  

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He is encouraged by the arrival of Jonny Evans, who he says has quickly fitted into the squad, but the main focus for Albion fans will surely be on the other end of the team, where they have all too rarely looked like scoring so far this season.  

An intriguing derby lies ahead against an Aston Villa team with the opposite problem.

West Brom news conference

Mike Taylor

BBC WM

Tony Pulis did accept, though, that some supporters let West Brom down at Villa Park last year.

"You have to realise and recognise that within 45,000 people there's always going to be a certain element of idiots who've gone there hell-bent to cause trouble, and that's what I was really disappointed about.

"Instead of going there to enjoy the occasion and the game, and two teams going head to head, they took it a little bit further, and it spoiled the game."

West Brom news conference

Mike Taylor

BBC WM

Tony Pulis also reflected on the trouble at Villa Park last year when Villa fans stormed the pitch and West Brom's supporters reportedly ripped out seats and hurled them onto the pitch.

"That's what disappointed me most last year. They beat us, you have to stick your chest out and take it the way you should take it.  And I think most of our supporters did, most of our supporters behaved exceptionally well."

Liverpool news conference

Mike Hughes

Reporter, BBC Radio Merseyside Sport

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Mamadou Sakhois very much in the reckoning to return to the Liverpool defence for Sunday's game.

"He was left out of the French squad recently but didn't sulk and has worked hard. He was brilliant last night," said manager Brendan Rodgers of the draw with Bordeaux in France.

Midfielder Joe Allen is fit to return to the squad.

West Brom news conference

Finally, we've heard word from Tony Pulis...

The West Brom boss feels a derby game away at Villa Park is the perfect showcase for his players to perform.

"What a great occasion and a great chance for players to show how good they are" he said.

Liverpool news conference

More from Rodgers on the return of Sturridge...

Liverpool news conference

Neil Jones from the Liverpool Echo is listening to Brendan Rodgers, who says that Jordan Henderson and Daniel Sturridge will both be assessed ahead of Sunday's game. 

The Anfield manager adds that their return will "add to the squad" and see his side go on a run of games and victories".

Bournemouth news conference

Crystal Palace news conference

Unlike Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri, Alan Pardew won't be buying any pizzas for the Crystal Palace players for keeping clean sheets, not that he has had to worry about it recently.

Chelsea news conference

John Southall

BBC Radio Five Live football reporter

It was a talkative, positive Jose Mourinho on Friday, speaking of "better faces around the training ground." 

He denied there are rifts in the dressing room, joking that John Terry and Diego Costa must have used a translator to fight.

He also confirmed that Pedro could feature against Arsenal on Saturday.

Crystal Palace news conference

The Palace boss actually has sympathy for opponents Tottenham....

West Brom news conference

If you are waiting on news of the West Brom news conference... well, so are we.

We have seen pictures of Tony Pulis sitting there, ready to speak. But since then, it has been all quiet.

Anyone like to speculate what is going on? Let us know #bbcsportsday.

Liverpool news conference

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers' news conference has started.

Crystal Palace news conference

Alan Pardew is hoping Palace can take advantage of Tottenham's tiredness following their Europa League game on Thursday. 

Crystal Palace news conference

Palace manager Alan Pardew has been speaking about his squad ahead of their trip to Tottenham on Sunday.

Davis Cup

Piers Newbery

BBC Sport in Glasgow

Liverpool news conference

Mike Hughes

Reporter, BBC Radio Merseyside Sport

Brendan Rodgers is due to speak at 13:30 BST after an encouraging display for a youthful Liverpool team in Bordeaux on Thursday.

But the team for Sunday's game against Norwich will bear no resemblance to that starting XI.

There's still some problem solving for the Reds' manager to do...

Wales news conference

Wales head coach Warren Gatland and captain Sam Warburton are holding a news conference ahead of their World Cup opener against Uruguay on Sunday.

You can follow it live here or by clicking the 'play' button at the top of this page.

AFP

Man City news conference

Some good news for Manchester City is Argentine full-back Pablo Zabaleta is nearing a return...

Friday Sports Panel

Joining Eleanor Oldroyd are former Scotland rugby captain Al Kellock , Ireland cricketer Ed Joyce , Welsh world champion cyclist Elinor Barker and English 400m hurdler Jack Green.

Listen live here

Man City news conference

Manuel Pellegrini was also asked about two players hoping for more opportunities at Manchester City, striker Wilfried Bony and defender  Nicolas Otamendi...

Man City news conference

City boss Manuel Pellegrini is pleased with the way new signings Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling have settled into his squad, and the options they give him.

Crystal Palace news conference

Emma Jones

BBC London

BBC Sport

This will be Alan Pardew's view as he previews Palace's trip to Tottenham. 

I've seen more than one pundit tip Palace to win at White Hart Lane, considering how both sides have started the season. 

Pardew's first league game in charge of Palace back in January was a home win against Spurs, so I am planning to ask him what his memories are of that, and whether they will give him extra confidence going into this match.     

Chelsea news conference

Jose Mourinho was also asked whether Eden Hazard's skied penalty on Wednesday night, would have been more suited to Twickenham than Stamford Bridge.

"Maybe he an agreement with a sponsor to promote the Rugby World Cup," quipped Mourinho.

Sunderland news conference

Sunderland midfielderAdam Johnsonwill return to the squad for their trip to Bournemouth.

The 28-year-old, who has not played since the opening day of the season when he dislocated his shoulder at Norwich, will be joined by full-back DeAndre Yedlin, who was ineligible to face parent club Tottenham last weekend under the terms of his loan agreement. 

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Scotland striker Steven Fletcher is available after recovering from a knock, but defender Adam Matthews (ankle ligaments) and frontman Duncan Watmore (illness) will miss out.

Chelsea news conference

Jose Mourinho was asked at his news conference about an FA investigation into a complaint that the Chelsea boss used abusive or sexist language towards team doctor Eva Carneiro.

"No reaction," replied Mourinho.

AFP

Man City news conference

Sergio Aguero is fit for Manchester City's game with West Ham tomorrow, but Blues manager Manuel Pellegrini has confirmed captain Vincent Kompany leads their list of absentees.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Matthew Wearing: Phil, are you jumping on the bandwagon that English teams cannot compete any more despite us only being one week into the Champions League? 

It's not been a great first week, Matthew, and not great that the team who has looked a cut above everyone else in the Premier League - Man City - lost their first home game in the Champions League group stage.

Juventus were last season's finalists, though, so they were playing a quality side.

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I suppose it depends what you mean by compete. Let me say straight away I would be very surprised if any of the English teams won the Champions League this season. Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are simply better and others can make that case as well.

With a fair wind in the draw, I could see City and Chelsea making to the last eight and then, of course, we can remind ourselves that anything can happen then, as with Liverpool in 2005 and Chelsea in 2012.

Murray on court first in Davis Cup

Piers Newbery

BBC Sport in Glasgow

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Andy Murray and Dan Evans will carry British hopes on day one of the Davis Cup semi-final against Australia in Glasgow.

Victory in the best-of-five tie would take Britain through to a first final since 1978.

Murray plays Thanasi Kokkinakis in the first singles match at 13:00 BST which you can follow here, before Evans plays Australian number one Bernard Tomic.

Chelsea news conference

Mourinho also responded to questions about Eden Hazard's form and his relationship with his captain John Terry

Manager Cox leaves Torquay

Torquay United manager Paul Cox has left the National League club by mutual consent after only three months in charge.

The Gulls are currently 18th in the table after only two wins in their opening 10 games.

PA

Chelsea news conference

Crisis? What crisis? Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho says the media are looking for more than what is there in the club's Premier League results this season.

Chelsea news conference

Jose was also asked about his past record against Arsenal, and how he will welcome former Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech back at Stamford Bridge.

Manchester City news conference

Ian Cheeseman

BBC Radio Manchester's City commentator

First Manchester City news conference since the defeat by Juventus is 15 mins away. I'll bet questions about strikers will be high on the agenda...

Chelsea news conference

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho also refused to criticise individual players after their poor start in the Premier League....

Chelsea news conference

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed Willian is the only player definitely out of their game with Arsenal, but several other key players are doubtful.

Chelsea news conference

John Southall

BBC Radio Five Live football reporter

We await Jose Mourinho... will a victory have brightened his mood ?

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Ask Phil..

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

James Hughes: At what point do you think Everton will get the recognition they deserve for playing well against the top four sides.

Not sure they deserved that much recognition last season, James. I thought they were very poor for the most part - a win at home to Manchester United apart - and a very dull team to watch.

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This season they seem to have rediscovered the higher tempo that made them so exciting to watch in Roberto Martinez's first season as manager. They were excellent against Chelsea and Jose Mourinho's assertion that his side had the game under control was palpable nonsense.

They've got Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal coming up in three successive games in October. If they get big results in those I'm sure there will be plenty of recognition flying around.

Zlatan's homecoming

AFP

Paris St-Germain and Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is pulling out all the stops for his return to his former club Malmo in the Champions League on 25 November.

Ibrahimovic has posted on Instagram to say he has "booked the main square" in the Swedish city to broadcast the game to fans.

He also promises "more surprises" on the day.

West Brom news conference

BBC Sport

West Brom news conference

Wales team named

Dafydd Pritchard

BBC Sport Wales

BreakingWales team named

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What's it like to bat at the Oval?

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New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum wore a camera on his helmet for a charity match at Surrey's Oval on Thursday night, as he batted with Sri Lanka legend Mahela Jayawardene.

Watch the video here.

Sherwood tells Villa fans to behave

Tim Sherwood has urged Aston Villa fans to keep their derby emotions in check against West Brom. The teams face each other at Villa Park on Saturday for the first time since their fiery FA Cup quater final last season which Villa won, but were eventually fined £200,000 after fans twice invaded the pitch.

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"I just hope that they're tempted to," Sherwood said. 

"If they are then we've done something right, but please stay to the edge on the pitch. Do all your cheering from there. You do it well enough.

"It can be done from their seats or standing up. Make sure you stay off the pitch."

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Mikey Malone: Will Man City be able to stop West Ham's Dimitri Payet on Saturday?

Good question, Mike. He looks a quality signing, doesn't he? If any team can at the moment it will be Manchester City, who have looked so formidable, despite that Champions League loss to Juventus.

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West Ham's win against Newcastle redressed the balance to their season a little after mixing up superb away wins at Arsenal and Liverpool with home defeats to Bournemouth and Leicester City. The co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan have shown real ambition backing manager Slaven Bilic and there are plenty of promising signs.  

Question time

A Question of Sport Teaser

Time for Friday's teaser...

Which three teams have played in a Rugby World Cup semi-final but have but have never reached the final?

Fourballs tee times

Iain Carter

BBC Sport in Heidelberg

The out of form Suzann Pettersen does not figure in the afternoon fourballs, which means Europe will be without their leading player.

Tee times for Friday's fourballs (all times BST)

• 12:00 Anna Nordqvist and Caroline Hedwall v Morgan Pressel and Paula Creamer
• 12:15 Charley Hull and Gwladys Nocera v Alison Lee and Angela Stanford
• 12:30 Melissa Reid and Carlota Ciganda v Cristie Kerr and Lexi Thompson
• 12:45 Caroline Masson and Sandra Gal v Gerina Piller and Brittany Lang

Europe 2-2 USA

Iain Carter

BBC Sport in Heidelberg

The comeback from four down by Karine Icher and Azahara Munoz came up short as the European pair fell to a 2 and 1 defeat to Cristie Kerr and Lexi Thompson.  But Catriona Matthew and home favourite Sandra Gal held their nerve to beat Stacy Lewis and Lizette Salas 3 and 2 to ensure honours even at the end of the first session.

Aircraft stops play

Reasons to suspend a round of golf: Bad light, rain, wind...lightweight aircraft.

Well that is what happened at Dunbar Golf Club in Scotland on Thursday.

The small 14th hole became an airstrip today as a microlight with a broken fuel gauge had to make an emergency landing.

Spurs trio set to return

Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino could welcome back midfielders Christian Eriksen, Mousa Dembele, and Ryan Mason for Sunday's game against Crystal Palace.

Nabil Bentaleb will miss out after suffering an ankle injury ahead of Sunday's victory over Sunderland, while Harry Kane is likely to return to the starting line-up after being rested for the Europa League win over Qarabag.

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Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Dave Jones: Do you feel the gap between the top four or five teams and the likes of Everton, Swansea and Leicester is shrinking?

I do, Dave. Manchester City are way ahead of the pack on current form, and I can't see Chelsea continuing in such a poor vein of form, but after that it may well be up for grabs.

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Everton, Swansea etc have started the season very well but must now keep it going. Whether a team is good enough to crack the top four remains to be seen but there will be a few more thinking they can do it.

We also now have a situation where Everton can simply turn Chelsea away even though they were prepared to pay more than £30m for John Stones. That is a sign of increased confidence and greater financial security with the riches of a new TV deal on the horizon.

Blatter advised to stay in Switzerland

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

BBC Sport understands Sepp Blatter has been advised by his US lawyers not to travel beyond Switzerland’s borders while the investigation into football’s world governing body continues.

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The Fifa president was due to be in Moscow today to attend a celebration marking 1000 days until the start of the World Cup but opted to stay in Zurich. The decision is believed to be unrelated to any fear of arrest as Russia has no bilateral extradition treaty with the US.

Instead, key voices within Fifa are determined to present the governing body as undergoing wholesale reform. Continuing to present Blatter at events as its figurehead is not considered to be consistent with that aim.

Furthermore, close associates have expressed concerns over the 79-year-old’s health.

Europe draw level

Iain Carter

BBC Sport in Heidelberg

Foursomes might not seem Charley Hull’s ideal format but she combined brilliantly with Melissa Reid.  The teenager from Kettering slotted hom a putt from just off the seventeenth green to secure a 2 and 1 victory over Michelle Wie and Brittany Lincicomee.  The English pair had four birdies and were never behind in a match that levels the contest at 1-1.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Alan Tate: Can Manchester United win the league this season?

Purely my opinion, Alan, but I don't think there is any chance of Manchester United winning the league this season - a statement which probably guarantees that they will.

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I don't think they're good enough. While they have made some decent signings I still think there is such a great reliance on Wayne Rooney and I'd like to see how their defence copes against the very best. Losing Luke Shaw is also a very bad blow because he has been outstanding this season.

I certainly think they will be in the top four but champions? Not this season.

US take opening point

Iain Carter

BBC Sport in Heidelberg

US captain Juli Inkster was well rewarded for her faith in wildcard Paula Creamer. It was a big call to send her out in the top match, but the experienced American combined well with Morgan Pressel to post the first point for the visitors.

They collected three birdies in a 3 and 2 win against the stellar European pairing of Suzann Pettersen and Anna Norqvist. Skipper Carin Koch will need better from the Scandinavians if Europe are to mount a successful defence.

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The remaining matches are too close to call with Europe ahead in two and down in one. In the match that they trail Karine Icher and Azahara Munoz are fighting back. They trailed Cristie Kerr and Lexi Thomson four down after six but are now only one down with three to play. Momentum is key.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Philip Robinson: Is Mourinho right for Chelsea?

Simple question. Simple answer. Yes.

Jose Mourinho is one of the greatest coaches/managers in world football and has the ability, know-how and confidence to get them away from this poor spell.

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As he rightly pointed out, he took Chelsea to the Premier League four months ago and also won the Capital One Cup last season. Don't back against him winning another trophy this season.

And things are different now from when he left Chelsea in 2007. Mourinho's relationship with owner Roman Abramovich had broken down and there was tension. This is not the case now and he has just signed a new four-year contract - both men now realise what is good for them.

Ask Phil...

We have been asking you for your questions to put to BBC Sport's chief football writer Phil McNulty...

Bruno re-admitted to hospital

Ade Adedoyin

BBC World Service Sport

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Frank Bruno has been re-admitted to hospital after suffering a relapse in his battle with Bipolar disorder

The former boxer's management confirmed that the 53-year-old former WBC heavyweight champion sought medical assistance to help with a bout of depression after a busy spell.

Up for the cup

Looks like the Welsh are getting into the spirit ahead of the tournament.... 

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Wales opening game is against Uruguay on Sunday and you can follow live text commentary on the BBC Sport website.

FA examine Mourinho complaint

Ben Smith

BBC Sport

The FA are looking into a complaint from the member of the public that Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho used abusive or sexist language towards team doctor Eva Carneiro during the draw with Swansea City in August. 

Football’s governing body are duty bound to investigate all reports of discrimination under rule E3, which states that players and coaches can be penalised for using “offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures”. 

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However, although the FA’s compliance department are studying video evidence, it is understood that it is unlikely to result in a prosecution.    

Carneiro and Mourinho fell out, after the team doctor and physio Jon Fearn had run on to the pitch to treat Eden Hazard.

The Times are reporting that the demoted medical duo are close to resuming their first-team duties. 

First practice in Singapore

First practice for the Singapore Grand Prix is getting underway shortly, and you can follow it live here.

Lewis Hamilton is trying to emulate his hero Ayrton Senna's 41 wins from 161 races this weekend.

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BreakingCavendish out of worlds

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Mark Cavendish will not compete at next week's UCI Road World Championships in Richmond, USA.

The British rider suffered a shoulder injury during stage six of the Tour of Britain.

Great Britain's technical director, Shane Sutton, said: “It’s a real blow. Unfortunately the injury he sustained during last week’s Tour of Britain is more serious than we had hoped."

'Do you snore?'

BBC

Former England player Mike Tindall got more than he bargained for from one of the pupils when he visited a primary school in Twickenham to mark the first day of the Rugby World Cup.

"Do you snore?” 10-year-old Sita asked.

You can listen to the clip from 5 live Breakfast here

Aston Villa news conference

Mark Regan

BBC WM Sport

Carles Gil and Adama Traore are both doubtful for the game against West Bromwich Albion. Villa manager Tim Sherwood is expecting WBA to be hard to break down and is all too aware that this isn't "just another game".

"I laugh when I hear managers say it's just another game, it's actually not," he said. "It means much more than that to the fans and to the players."

Wimbledon stays on BBC

Good news, tennis fans...

The BBC has signed a new rights deal with the All England Club to continue broadcasting Wimbledon until 2020

The extended three-year deal keeps the Grand Slam free to air and includes live online and radio coverage.

BBC director general Tony Hall said Wimbledon "unites the nation" and that he was "delighted" with the deal.

Arsenal news conference

Rob Nothman

BBC Sport

Arsene Wenger refuses to be drawn on whether he'll shake hands with Jose Mourinho on Saturday. He tries to defuse constant talk about their uneasy relationship. 

"Look - too much attention is paid to it. People come to football to watch football - everything else is secondary," he said.

But his unease is obvious as he's repeatedly quizzed about Mourinho. "I have nothing more to say about this," the Frenchman added.

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Aston Villa news conference

Sherwood also believes  Jack Grealish's goal last week can be the start of something:

"I always say goals don't come in singles. Hopefully that's the case with Jack. 

"We haven't got what we deserve in games so far. Our points total doesn't reflect the way we've played. We've lost by the odd goal. Hopefully that'll change."

Aston Villa news conference

Manager Tim Sherwood is relishing facing West Brom tomorrow:

"Derbies are good games to be involved in. I hear a lot of managers say it's just another game. It's not. It's a lot more than that. Local pride and bragging rights. We need to make sure we do it for our fans and for ourselves.

"The two home games against West Brom last year were great from our point of view. The first was a vital three points in the Premier League. That's what we want tomorrow.

"We know West Brom will be competitive. They've got good, experienced players who have been around the block a few times. "

Aston Villa news conference

AVFCOfficial

Villa boss Tim Sherwood was also asked about rotating his squad and the form of forward Gabriel Agbonlahor:

"We've got a few games coming up. We might need to rotate the squad. Everyone realises we've got competition for places here now.

"Gabby's been a great footballer for this club over the years and is important. I'm happy with him."

Aston Villa news conference

Tim Sherwood says Villa will continue to play with a positive approach:

"We know West Brom will come and be hard to break down. We'll have to attack. My philosophy is always to win and be on the front foot.

"We don't worry about what other people are going to do. We know they'll be strong from set pieces. We must make sure we don't concede anymore goals from set pieces. I'm confident we'll be fine.

"We'll express ourselves and try to score goals."

In a galaxy far, far away

Neymar

La Liga could said to be like a version of Star Wars, with Ronaldo, Neymar, Messi, Suarez and Bale.

And here is said Barcelona striker Neymar and light sabre, alongside Star Wars actor John Boyega, which he posted on Instagram.

Aston Villa news conference

Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood isn't concerned about the effects of letting a two-goal lead slip to lose to Leicester:

"Last week is over now and we have to move on and look to the future.

"To throw it away at the end was very disappointing. The game swung on a set piece. Momentum changed. That's finished and we look forward to the West Brom game."

Arsenal news conference

Arsenal lost 2-1 to Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Aston Villa news conference

Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood is now speaking to the media ahead of Saturday's game with West Brom, starting with the radio reporters.

Arsenal news conference

Petr Cech will face his former side Chelsea for the first time in the league since his summer move to London rivals Arsenal.

Aston Villa news conference

The Press Association's Nick Mashiter says the media are ready and waiting for Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood...

Arsenal news conference

Arsene Wenger has been talking about Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere, who requires surgery on a hairline fracture of his left leg and is expected to be out for three months.

The 23-year-old broke a fibula in August but was expected to return to training following September's international break.

Arsenal news conference

Arsene Wenger has been holding his news conference ahead of Arsenal's lunchtime trip to Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Fifa secretary Valke suspended

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

Following Jerome Valcke’s suspension (08:36 BST), Sepp Blatter tells Fifa staff via an email sent on his behalf: "Fifa confident of ability to recover from present difficult situation and restore its reputation for good of game”.

Markus Kattner is now in charge of day to day operations at Fifa. He is hhead of finance and administration and also serves as deputy secretary general, so this is as expected.

UK Athletics review into Salazar

These are the findings from a review into allegations of dopings against Mo Farah's coach Alberto Salazar.

A BBC Panorama programme accused Salazar of practising doping techniques with other athletes, which he denies.

US start strongly

Iain Carter

BBC Sport in Heidelberg

The United States have adopted a lower key approach, trying not to be side-tracked by too much razzamatazz. They’ve ditched the Stars and Stripes face painting and are seeking to concentrate on their golf.

It seems to be working. Morgan Pressel and wildcard Paula Creamer have settled well and going to the turn at one-over-par they have earned a two hole lead over the rather subdued Scandinavians Anna Nordqvist and Suzann Pettersen.

Cristie Kerr and Lexi Thompson are combining best. They have had three birdies in seven holes to earn a commanding four hole lead on Karine Icher and Azahara Munoz. Europe hold slender one hole leads in the other two matches. It looks like they will have to preserve those advantages.

Phil McNulty Q&A

Right then, here's an early Friday treat for you...

BBC Sport's chief football writer, Phil McNulty, has offered to answer your questions on the week's football and what awaits this weekend.

If you have something to ask, visit our Facebook page to get in touch with Phil.

Aston Villa news conference

Arsenal news conference

Rob Nothman

BBC Sport

BBC

Unsurprisingly, more cameras and microphones than usual for Arsene Wenger's news conference ahead of the game at Chelsea. 

Suspect Wenger may be a bit prickly as he's quizzed about his uneasy relationship with Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho and his team selection for the midweek defeat in Zagreb. 

Before those Champions League matches, Arsenal were surely favourites to win at Stamford Bridge. But 90 mins later, the landscape had changed.

Solheim Cup update

Iain Carter

BBC Sport

All four opening foursomes are out on the course and thankfully it is a bright, clear morning. The last couple of days have been so wet the course is very soft and spectator areas are soggy and muddy - think Celtic Manor 2010. 

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The early exchanges have been marked by some nervous golf. Michelle Wie’s first tee shot was an ugly hook.

Wie was due to partner Alison Lee who was not able to practice yesterday because of a stomach bug. US captain Juli Inkster is monitoring the rookie’s progress and the fact that she appeared at the opening ceremony is encouraging. 

Charley Hull and Melissa Reid have started best for the home side and lead Wie and Brittany Lincicome 1 up after five holes.  

Follow live scores here

Rugby World Cup

AFP

It's the third biggest sporting event on the planet and England have actual won it in recent times.

But can they repeat the heroics of Jonny Wilkinson and co in 2003, when the Rugby World Cup kicks off at 20:00 BST.

England take on Fiji in the opener at Twickenham.

On this day

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In 2007, Chelsea drew 1-1 with Rosenborg in a Champions League group game at Stamford Bridge in what would prove to be Jose Mourinho's last match in his first stint as Blues manager.

Fifa secretary Valcke suspended

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Fifa secretary general Jerome Valcke has been put on leave and released from his duties until further notice.

A Fifa statement said it had "been made aware of a series of allegations involving the secretary general".

Newspaper allegations on Thursday  implicated Valcke, 54, in a scheme to sell World Cup tickets for above face value.

The Frenchman, who has held his role at Fifa since 2007, said he denied the "fabricated, outrageous" allegations.

Happy birthday

Well done to those of you who divined that the former Spurs and Arsenal player turning 41 on Friday is Sol Campbell.

Also celebrating are two former England goalkeepers - Peter Shilton (66) and  Alex Stepney (73), former Liverpool and Ireland striker  John Aldridge (57), former Wimbledon and England frontman  John Fashanu (53), former Yorkshire and England bowler  Darren Gough (45) and  Lance Armstrong,  who was stripped of his seven Tour de France titles after admitting to doping (44).

Happy birthday to who?

Shaw to have second operation?

AFP

The Daily Express report that Manchester United defender Luke Shaw, 20, will have a second operation on his broken leg in the Netherlands on Friday.

Shaw was injured in a challenge by PSV Eindhoven defender Hector Moreno during United's 2-1 defeat on Tuesday.

Celtic held by Ajax

AFP

Celtic were denied a Europa League win as Ajax's Lasse Schone scored a late equaliser.

Nir Bitton and Mikael Lustig were on target for a Celtic but a stunning strike from Viktor Fischer and a free-kick from Schone earned a point for the Dutch side as the game finished 2-2.

Nice one Son

AFP

It looks like Tottenham have a player capable of scoring the goals they so badly need.

South Korea's Son Heung-min, a £22m summer signing from Bayer Leverkusen, scored twice as Spurs beat Qarabag 3-1 in the Europa League.

Liverpool held in Bordeaux

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The Europa League failed to provide any respite for Liverpool as Brendan Rodgers side drew 1-1 with Bordeaux.

Adam Lallana put Liverpool in front but substitute Jussie scored in the last 10 minutes to earn Bordeaux a point and deny the Reds a first win in four games.

The papers

Times back page

The papers

Sun back page

The papers

Telegraph back page

The papers

Daily Star back page

The papers

Daily Express back page

The papers

Mirror back page

Good morning

AFP

Hello and welcome to Friday.

You want Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger? We got them. Louis van Gaal and Brendan Rodgers? Yep them also.

In fact were will be hearing from 13 Premier League managers ahead of this weekend's games.

Not to mention the start of the Rugby World Cup. It's going to be a busy one.

But first the papers...