Sportsday - rolling football news

1. Sporting computer games debate #bbcsportsday
2. Six Premier League news conferences
3. USA 'is best place for Gerrard'

That's it from Sportsday

That's it from Sportsday for today - I'm off to try to beat my personal best on Denise Lewis' heptathlon game.

That should keep you lot busy too - but if not there's more live sport to get your teeth into tonight.

Follow world champions New Zealand as they take on Namibia at the Rugby World Cup.

Plus there's also Huddersfield v Nottingham Forest in the Championship from 19:30 BST - enjoy!

Paterson out of Forest game

Huddersfield's on-loan winger Jamie Paterson is unavailable to play against his parent club as Nottingham Forest tonight.

Goalkeeper Joe Murphy, midfielder Mark Hudson and striker James Vaughan are all still out injured for the Terriers.

Forest will be without midfielder Ben Osborn, who has a groin strain, but manager Dougie Freedman is hopeful defender Matt Mills will be available.

Mills picked up a hamstring injury in Saturday's 2-1 defeat by Middlesbrough.

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Fages joins Saints from Salford

St Helens have signed Salford half-back Theo Fages for an undisclosed fee on a four-year contract from 2016.

The 21-year-old had a transfer request rejected in June and was told he would only be sold for a world record fee.

SWPix

Two months later the France international resigned from the club for an alleged breach of contract, and on Monday he was released by Salford.

"Theo is a super player and I am really pleased to add him to our squad," said Saints head coach Keiron Cunningham.

'Crunch time' for Rodgers at Liverpool

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

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Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers faces a "massive" 10 days that could decide his future at the club, according to former Reds defender Mark Lawrenson.

Rodgers's side edged past Carlisle in the League Cup at Anfield on Wednesday, beating the League Two side 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

They face Aston Villa and Everton in their next two league games, either side of a Europa League tie with Sion.

Lawrenson said Rodgers was "in danger" and the team "lacked character".

Like driving on ice

BBC

In his BBC Sport column Lewis Hamilton looks ahead to one of his favourite races this weekend in Japan, and describes how racing in the wet is a bit like driving on ice.

Cane to captain All Blacks

Sam Cane will captain New Zealand for the first time tonight when the defending champions take on Namibia at London's Olympic Stadium.

Cane replaces Richie McCaw at flanker and, aged 23 years and eight months, becomes their fifth youngest captain.

Coach Steve Hansen has made 12 changes to the team which beat Argentina, with Sonny Bill Williams starting after impressing from the bench on Sunday.

Sam Whitelock is the only player to remain in the pack from Sunday's win.

PA

Gatland confused by Wales warning

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Wales coach Warren Gatland has defended his use of non-World Cup squad players during training sessions after being warned by tournament organisers.

World Rugby said "no deliberate breach was intended" but Wales contravened "the spirit" of the rules by inviting omitted players omitted to training.

Gatland's side face England at Twickenham on Saturday (20:00 BST) in their second match of the tournament.

"We haven't broken any rules. I don't know what we have done wrong," he said.

Helicopter on stand-by for Super League shield

Super League officials are hiring a helicopter to ensure the league leaders' shield can be presented on Friday night. 

In the closest finish yet to a Super League campaign, with only one point separating the top four clubs, any one of them can still claim the shield, although St Helens' chances are slim. 

SWPix.com

The trophy will be at Huddersfield's John Smith's Stadium for the kick-off between current leaders Leeds and the third-placed Giants along with Rugby Football League chief executive Nigel Wood, who will be ready to make the presentation. 

However, a helicopter is being put on stand-by at the golf driving range next to the stadium, ready to whisk the trophy, accompanied by Super League general manager Blake Solly and Ed Cam of sponsors First Utility, on a 30-minute flight to Wigan if the Warriors claim top spot after their home game against Castleford. 

West Brom fans forgive 'naughty child' Berahino

Manager Tony Pulis has praised West Brom fans for forgiving striker Saido Berahino for wanting to leave.

Berahino, threatened never to play for the club again after chairman Jeremy Peace rejected two transfer deadline-day bids from Tottenham on 1 September.

The 22-year-old scored the only goal in Saturday's 1-0 win at Aston Villa, his second game since asking to leave.

"They've embraced him and brought him back into the fold - that naughty child," said Pulis.

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Moore third on Newmarket return

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Jockey Ryan Moore finished third on his return at Newmarket after more than two months out with a neck injury.

Three-time champion Moore, 32, rode Peterhof for trainer Sir Michael Stoute in the Arkle Finance Handicap, which was won by Rare Rhythm.

"I've not really targeted this week, but I am pleased to be back and ready for some good races," he said.

Moore, 32, was injured at Newmarket's July Festival when his horse Newton's Law became trapped in the stalls.

Koeman 'settled' at Southampton

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Southampton boss Ronald Koemansays he is happy at the club amid fresh speculation  he could be offered the Netherlands manager's job next month.

The Dutch have two Euro 2016 qualifiers in October and need Turkey to drop points to make the play-offs.

"I'm very settled here. I have a contract with Southampton until the end of next season," Koeman said.

"What will happen after that nobody knows, but until that date I am the coach of Southampton."

Get Involved - Denise Lewis' heptathlon game

Plus some of you were held back by multi-tasking.....

Keir Husband: 9209 points. Three world records, but somewhat compromised by having to answer phone during the 800m.

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Bournemouth without captain for Stoke game

Chris Wise

BBC Radio Solent

“Eddie Howe played down any remaining theories that Stoke City are solely a long-ball, one dimensional side. He spoke of his great respect for Potters boss Mark Hughes and how the expansive styles of the two teams are comparable.

“The Cherries will again be without their skipper Tommy Elphick who has gone to Sweden to see a specialist about his ankle injury. The loss of Elphick is a blow but summer signing Sylvain Distin looked calm and composed in his absence last weekend against Sunderland in what was his first Premier League appearance for the Cherries.”

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Get Involved - Denise Lewis' heptathlon game

Honourable mention (or should that be dishonourable?) for this effort from Mark Williams, which was the highest score anyone sent us today.

Cheating is not something we condone though - which is why you didn't make the leaderboard.

Thanks to all who got involved though - and if you had actual work to do then don't worry, you can still play the game here.

Mark Williams

England right not to recall me - Pietersen

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Kevin Pietersen says England winning the Ashes proved director of cricket Andrew Strauss made the "right decision" not to recall him.

The batsman said in May he was "angry and hurt" after Strauss told him he was excluded because "trust had eroded".

But, speaking on Thursday, the 35-year-old said: "He made his decision and it's turned out absolutely fine."

Meanwhile, Pietersen has agreed to play in the inaugural T20 Pakistan Super League to be held in Qatar in February.

'No panic' as England drop Ford

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England head coach Stuart Lancaster says he has not panicked by replacing fly-half George Ford with Owen Farrell for Saturday's game with Wales.

Ford, 22, started last week's 35-11 World Cup Pool A win over Fiji, but Farrell impressed off the bench.

Sam Burgess has been selected at inside centre after Jonathan Joseph was ruled out with a chest injury.

"I don't think putting an in-form and confident Owen Farrell into the team is a risk," said Lancaster.

Rojo out with hamstring injury

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal may have to play Ashley Young at left-back against Sunderland on Saturday, after confirming Marcos Rojo will not be fit for the match at Old Trafford. 

Paddy McNair is also injured which leaves United short of options in defence.

"The left-footed players, Luke Shaw and Marcos Rojo, are injured, so I have a problem," van Gaal said.

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Courtois begins rehabilitation

Thibaut Courtois

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has posted a picture on his official Facebook page with ice on his knee, with the caption "my rehabilitation has started".

The 23-year-old is expected to be out until December after damaging his medial ligaments during training earlier this month.

Get Involved - Denise Lewis' heptathlon game

FINAL LEADERBOARD: 

1.  Andy Tunnicliffe - 16979 

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2.  Colin Tye - 16751

3.  George Hattrell - 15988

4.  James Williams - 14143

5.  Matt Friday - 13754

Special mention to Adam Hickling who we were not sure if your score of 22,109 was genuine but if it wasn't, you were JUST out of time! Sorry!

Thank you all for your efforts. You are all winners.

Robshaw faced huge pressure - O'Shea

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England captain Chris Robshaw has been under "huge mental and physical pressure" in the run-up to the Rugby World Cup, according to his club coach Conor O'Shea.

The Harlequins director of rugby removed the club captaincy from Robshaw in August 2014 to help him concentrate on his duties as international skipper. 

O'Shea told BBC London the decision has reaped dividends for all parties as Robshaw prepares to lead England out for the 40th time against Wales on Saturday, overtaking Martin Johnson as England's second-most capped captain.

Get Involved - Denise Lewis' heptathlon game

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We've been, frankly, overwhelmed by your response to the Denise Lewis heptathlon game. But there's more where that came from...

Tardis Tennis

Cork and Bowled

Sticky Wicket

Herculympics

And a whole lot more here...

Curran handed England U19 call

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Surrey all-rounder Sam Curran has been rewarded for his performances in his first season in county cricket with a call-up to the England Under-19s.

The 17-year-old, younger brother of county team-mate Tom and son of former Zimbabwe international Kevin, only made his first-class debut in July.

Hampshire's Brad Taylor will captain the side for tour to Sri Lanka for a one-day tri-series involving India in December.

England under-19 squad for tri-series in Sri Lanka: Brad Taylor (Hampshire, capt), George Bartlett (Somerset), Hugh Bernard (Kent), Jack Burnham (Durham), Mason Crane (Hampshire), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ryan Davies (Kent, wk), Ben Green (Somerset), Haseeb Hameed (Lancashire), Adam Hickey (Durham), Max Holden (Middlesex), Dan Lawrence (Essex), Saqid Mahmood (Lancashire), Tom Moores (Nottinghamshire, wk), Callum Taylor (Essex), Jared Warner (Yorkshire).

Bell falters due to paperwork

Leocadia Bongben

BBC Sport in Yaounde

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Former international goalkeeper Joseph-Antoine Bell has failed in his bid to be the next president of the Cameroon Football Federation (Fecafoot).

One of Africa's best ever goalkeepers failed to send in the correct documents when making his application.

We've all been there...

Get Involved - Denise Lewis' heptathlon game

We love your dedication to the cause though, Martin.

Current leaderboard:

1. James Williams - 14143 points

2. Matt Friday - 13754

3. Gary - 13138

4.  Graham Broome - 13113

5. Lewys - 12195

(You lot think you can fool us with your 40,000 + scores... we know the cheating method and we are not buying it - you have to get up pretty early to outsmart Sportsday).

You have until 17:00 BST to get your name on our leaderboard.

Leicester City news conference

Ian Stringer

BBC Radio Leicester Sport

Claudio Ranieri sent a clear message that his side need a complete performance if they are to remain the only unbeaten side in the land by Saturday tea time.

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The Italian told a packed news conference that he does not see any weaknesses in Arsenal’s team and that Arsene Wenger could lead his side to the Premier League title this campaign.

This week, Ranieri admitted he shouts at his players a lot and also wants to "break their mind and change their chip", while also confessing that all out attack is their best attribute.

BBC World Football

Former Arsenal and France midfielder Emmanuel Petit fears for football and the human race...

Listen here

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How did you do with today's teaser?

A Question of Sport Teaser

Earlier our colleagues from Question of Sport asked you to name the six players whose surnames begin with F to have played in the Ryder Cup since 2002.

The answers are:

Niclas Fasth, Ross Fisher, Rickie Fowler, Pierre Fulke, Fred Funk and Jim Furyk.

We'll have another question for you tomorrow.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

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Cal Ronald: How long does Brendan Rodgers realistically have left?

I think FSG would love Brendan Rodgers to turn it around and I still believe he deserved to start the season as Liverpool manager - but he will know as well as anyone a long run of poor results and performances will not be allowed to go unchecked at a club with Liverpool's aspirations.

I see Liverpool's next two league games as being crucial, especially the Merseyside derby at Everton. If Liverpool win, the world will suddenly seem a better place - if they lose then I fear the fans who are currently behind Rodgers may feel this would be the final straw. FSG would then have a problem and potentially a decision to make.

Get Involved - Denise Lewis' heptathlon game

Brilliant.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Johan Albrechtsen: Do you like to watch HBO's seminal tv show "The Wire" and pretend that they're talking about you whenever Detective McNulty is mentioned?

No.

Mulgrew doubt for Scotland

SNS

Charlie Mulgrew is a major doubt for Scotland's Euro 2016 qualifiers against Poland and Gibraltar next month, according to Celtic boss Ronny Deila.

The Celtic defender has missed three matches with a thigh strain.

"He's still not on the pitch training [with the] ball so it will be tough to reach the Scotland games," said Deila. "I am not 100% in that, I am not a physio - even though I think I am sometimes."

Get Involved - Denise Lewis' heptathlon game

Robert O'Mahony: Two scores for you! One legitimate and one using a trick we all used back in school 10 years ago!

DISQUALIFIED!!!! 

P.S What's the trick... we are terrible at this game...

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Latest county scoreboard

We're entering the final session on the penultimate day of this summer's county cricket season. Here's the latest scores:

Division One:

Yorkshire 251 & 202-5 v Sussex 248

Worcestershire 431-5 dec v Middlesex 98 & 133-9

Somerset 428 & 40-5 v Warwickshire 324

Nottinghamshire 340 & 181-8 v Hampshire 326

Division Two:

Surrey 410 v Northants 110 & 79-1

Gloucestershire 538-8 v Glamorgan 433

Essex 394 v Lancashire 131-2

Derbyshire 352 v Leicestershire 329 & 199-4

Click here for all the latest scores

Get Involved - Denise Lewis' heptathlon game

Ross Taylor is currently in the lead... Can you do better?

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Ross Taylor: 10484 points. Only 3200 above the current world record that's stood for 27 years #boom

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

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Christopher G Bourke: Are you surprised at how well Anthony Martial has adapted to the Premier League with Manchester United? do you think he could score enough goals alongside Wayne Rooney and co to win the Premier League?

Well, I had hardly seem him, Christopher, other than for Monaco against Arsenal in the Champions League, so I have been a little surprised but it is certainly very exciting for Manchester United. He is incredibly rapid and seems a natural in front of goal.

As to your second point, I don't see United scoring enough goals to win the title this season although his partnership with Rooney could be a very good one - but Martial certainly looks like great news for the future.

Swansea news conference

Swansea news conference

Fancy listening to some Rugby League?

St Helens v Warrington Wolves is tonight on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra and BBC Radio Merseyside (not online). 

Then, tomorrow, you have a choice of Huddersfield v Leeds or Wigan v Castleford. 

Then, this weekend there are a plethora of games to chose from.

Details below:

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Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Sumit Pal: Why do you think that the so called big names in the Premier League like Aguero, Hazard, Sanchez, Rooney are struggling to find the net so far?

I have written an analysis piece on this very subject which will be published soon - keep your eyes peeled, Sumit.

Get involved - Denise Lewis' heptathlon game

Right. Gamers, get ready. 

Have a go at the ever so retro Denise Lewis' heptathlon game. 

Send us a screen grab of your overall score and see if you can make our Sportsday leaderboard

You will only be able to play it on a desktop computer as smart phones weren't invented when the game was originally created... 

Younger members of the Sportsday audience will wonder what we did back in those days...

The leaderboard will close at 17:00 BST

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Football Focus

Juliette Ferrington

BBC Sport

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Jamie DeNiro Williams: If Kenny Dalglish can be sacked after winning a trophy and "wasting" money on Andy Carroll and Stewart Downing, why is Brendan Rodgers being allowed to remain after no trophies in three years and over £200m spent? Did he win LFC second place? Or did his tactical naivety lose them 1st place?

Fair point on Dalglish, Jamie. I was just never quite sure Kenny was the type of manager FSG really wanted - but a fine spell as caretaker and the manner in which he was loved by fans understandably got him the job.

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When appointing Rodgers, FSG invested a lot of faith and money in him and he was the young, modern, progressive sort of coach they wanted, willing to work within their infrastructure. He is their man so they are giving him every chance to succeed. 

As for the title, I am afraid I cannot stand some of the current revisionism about Rodgers. He and his players did brilliantly in finishing second - and he is a manager who was probably a man falling over away from winning Liverpool's first title in 24 years. He deserves huge credit for his work that season.

F1's new team for 2016

Get Involved - favourite sport video games

What are your favourite sport computer games?

Craig Green: A game as bloody minded, unpredictable and uncompromising as the name on the tin. An addictive stinker. 

Craig Green

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Felix Olukunle Adewumi: Don't you think the media sometimes have a say in referee's decision or punishments given to players?

I don't to be honest, Felix. I think the FA judge matters on their own merits. The media has every right to question and discuss decisions but I don't think they have a say in them.

Wales coach bemused by warning

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Wales coach Warren Gatland admits he doesn't know what they have done wrong, after they were warned over a breach of World Cup regulations.

Back-up players who did not make the final 31-man squads are not allowed to take part in practice sessions, but a group did yesterday.

"We haven't broken any rules. Apparently we have broken the "spirit of the rules," Gatland said.

"What that means we don't know. I don't know what we have done wrong."

Southampton news conference

Dutch midfielder Jordy Clasie is Southampton's only injury doubt for the game against Swansea, but is in contention to return against Chelsea the following week, according to manager Ronald Koeman....

Leicester City news conference

Now,Claudio Ranierihas turned his attention to Saturday's game...

Southampton news conference

Sounds like Ronald Koeman is very proud of his Southampton side....

Bournemouth news conference

Eddie Howe is also aware Stoke are a better side than their position in the Premier League suggests:

"I've reviewed Stoke City's games and I've been impressed. They certainly don't look like a team that haven't won yet." 

"We are not at the stage where we can start to group games together. We want points from every game."

Leicester City news conference

Claudio Ranieri has been reflecting on the League Cup win over West Ham, and the draw that pairs his side with Hull City...

Bournemouth news conference

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe has some selection dilemmas ahead of Saturday's trip to the Britannia Stadium.

"Both Harry Arter and Tommy Elphick are unavailable for selection.

"The performance against Sunderland was good, but we will prepare for Stoke City on an individual basis." 

Southampton news conference

Kris Temple

BBC Radio Solent

Southampton news conference

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Saints boss Ronaldo Koeman had this to say about Saturday's opponents Swansea:

"They are an example of how you do your football business. They try to play attractive football.

"We can compare them to our team and that's the reason why it's a difficult game for both teams." 

Southampton news conference

Koeman is also pleased to have Jay Rodriguez back available after injury.....

Southampton news conference

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman is speaking to the media and has begun by reflecting on their win at MK Dons in the League Cup...

Leicester City news conference

Swansea news conference

Mark Poyser

BBC Wales football reporter

After the first month of the season, Garry Monk’s Swansea City were earning rave reviews for their on-field performances and their transfer activity off it.

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Now as we wait to speak to the Swans manager ahead of this weekend’s meeting with his former club Southampton, things have taken a turn for the worse. They haven’t won or scored in any of their last three matches after exiting the Capital One Cup at the hands of Championship side Hull on Tuesday.

In fact, no Swansea player other than Bafetimbi Gomis or summer signing Andre Ayew has scored in the Premier League this season.

Your favourite sporting computer games

Dave: Kick off on the amiga. Played at 90 miles an hour. Frustratingly quick but so satisfying when scoring a belter from 60 yds  

Andy Jones: Big Bass Fishing on the Sega Megadrive! 

Sam Pearce: Sensible soccer is up there... 30 yard slide tackles and blonde hair being outlawed? Class.

Sensible Soccer

Wales Team Announcement

Just a reminder you can watch the Wales coach Warren Gatland right now talking about the game against England - just click on the live coverage tab at the top of this page.

Bournemouth news conference

Chris Wise

BBC Radio Solent

The significance of last weekend's win against Sunderland should not be underestimated. It came off the back of one the poorest showings from Bournemouth for quite some time at Norwich the week previous.

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Eddie Howe's team have achieved both home and away wins in the Premier League now so that is likely to be a psychological boost for the squad.

It'll be intriguing to see how the visitors eye-catching style of play matches up against the physicality of Stoke City on Saturday. You have to say there will be a touch more pressure on the home side, who are yet to win in the league so far this season.

Still no future for Ranger at Blackpool

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Striker Nile Ranger still has no future at Blackpool, despite posting two videos on his  Instagram account which showed him running up sand dunes in the club's kit this week. 

There's no U-turn; he's got no future at the football club," manager Neil McDonald told BBC Lancashire. 

"Through his contractual obligations we have to try and get him fit but he won't train with the first team and he won't train anywhere near the ground. As I said two months ago, he's got no future as long as I'm the manager here." 

Get Involved - favourite sport video games

Mr Hind: The original Football Manager on the Spectrum. Pressing BREAK, Y, ENTER when opposition were shooting stopped them scoring.

Omar Gemei: Sensible World of Soccer but for mini-games, Roberto Baggio's freekicks can't be beaten.

Rich Crowton: Emlyn Hughes international soccer on the spectrum! Could score from kick off and play 90 mins. I beat the computer 150-0.

BenPirrie: Got to be Geoff Crammonds Mircroprose Grand Prix. A game I'd still be playing today if I could find a way of making it work..  

Ask Phil...

Ismael Hussein: Do you believe Arsenal can win the league this season? And should Mike Dean be in charge of another Arsenal game after he clearly didn't manage the game at Stamford Bridge well?

No, I don't think Arsenal can win the league. I tipped Chelsea to win the title this season with Arsenal second - but Manchester City, despite the loss at home to West Ham United, have looked streets ahead of anyone else.

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My prediction was made on the assumption that Arsenal would buy a top-class striker and perhaps another midfield man as well - this didn't happen and I think Arsene Wenger made a major error.

As for Mike Dean... of course he should be in charge of future Arsenal games. There is no way clubs can start picking and choosing referees simply because they may not like some decisions he has made against them in the past.

Burgess not a gamble for England

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England coach Stuart Lancasterdenies it is a gamble to select rugby league convert Sam Burgess for the game against Wales.

Burgess starts at inside centre alongside Brad Barritt.

Jonathan Joseph's chest injury which has kept him out of the game won't rule him out of the entirety of Rugby World Cup, while number eight Ben Morgan could be fit next week following a knee injury.

Lancaster believes the team he has selected is the best to face a strong Wales side, and describes Owen Farrell as "high quality" after opting for him ahead of George Ford at fly-half.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Kyle Utterson: Do you think each team should have a captain's challenge per half where they can ask a video referees to take a look at a particular decision?

I don't mind technology for line decisions etc but I am afraid as far as decisions are concerned I prefer to leave it to the referees.

I like technology in cricket but even then it has its downside. Look at how umpires now regularly ignore no-balls because they know they can check them using video technology when a wicket falls.

Line technology yes - but no to captain's challenges.

Your favourite sport computer games

We want to know your favourite sporting computer games and why?

Kieran Bestall: I spent hours playing (and loading) this obscure gem on the ZX Spectrum

We've just had a look and it seems to takes longer to load than to actually play it.

Kieran Bestall

Ramirez back in fold

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Southampton manager Ronald Koeman says Gaston Ramirez is back in his plans after the £12m forward made his first appearance in nearly 13 months. 

The Uruguay international, 24, was a second-half substitute in the 6-0 League Cup win at MK Dons on Wednesday, having spent last season on loan at Hull. 

"He's part of the squad, training well, well disciplined and not complaining. I admire that," said Koeman.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

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Raymond Muumba Kabenda: What do you think about the the reaction of Jose Mourinho over Diego Costa's three-match ban? And is the referee [Mike Dean] gonna handle more crucial games in the Premier League?

Predictable but pointless. Costa deserved his three-match ban. Where I feel Mourinho has just cause for complaint is the reduction of Gabriel's ban, when even Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger accepted he was right to be sent off. Whatever you think of Costa, Gabriel did kick out at him and deserved a red card.

And yes, Mike Dean will continue to referee important games.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Chris Conisbee: Do you think the pressure/grief Brendan Rodgers is getting from the fans and media is just?

I certainly don't think it is harsh, Chris. Liverpool managers will always be under close scrutiny - never moreso than when they are having bad results and Liverpool are on a run of poor results stretching back to March.

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It is inevitable there will be criticism, especially when there has been so much money spent on the squad.

There are mitigating circumstances. Rodgers has had to deal with the loss, in the last 18 months, of Luis Suarez, Steven Gerrard and Raheem Sterling, while Danny Sturridge has barely been fit. This season he has suffered injuries to captain Jordan Henderson and now £32.5m striker Christian Benteke.

As for the fans, they pay their money and have the right to complain - and in this instance I believe they complain with justification.

So if I was to answer your question in one word it would be - no.

Favourite sporting computer games

Not technically a computer game but still a good one...

Paul Croft: I've got this at home. Still works. Played it for hours!   

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Wales warned over training breach

Huw Evans Picture Agency

Wales have received an official warning from World Rugby for a breach of Rugby World Cup regulations during training.

Back-up players who did not make the final 31-man squads are not allowed to take part in practice sessions.

But a group of players not in Wales' squad did participate during training at Sudbury on Wednesday.

"While World Rugby is satisfied that no deliberate breach was intended, an official warning has been issued to the WRU," the sport's governing body said.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

David Cardwell: How much of the blame for Liverpool's current fall from grace should be apportioned to FSG? Brendan Rodgers needs to go but FSG should be walking out of the same door. It's becoming an embarrassment now.

If I was to apportion blame to FSG for one thing it would be Liverpool's transfer committee and a strategy that seems to think it is, more often than not, better to buy promise rather than proven talent. It seems to me to be an attempt to get around a system that simply not be circumnavigated.

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Liverpool's buying record has been wretched and the committee system leaves too many grey areas as to who is responsible for what deals. 

Brendan Rodgers says he has the final word but there is clearly input from others - something he may use in his defence if his position is questioned again. 

My view is Rodgers should have a team of scouts and he should then be totally responsible for all transfer policy. No committee.

Happy birthday

Well done to those of you who divined that the former Arsenal and Everton player who turns 50 on Thursday is Anders Limpar.

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Also celebrating are former Rangers manager Ally McCoist (53), former Manchester United assistant Mike Phelan (53), Olympic keirin and world sprint champion Victoria Pendleton (35) and Saracens and England fly-half Owen Farrell (24).  

The paralysed player who bought his club

What a story.

Having just broken into his hometown club's, Worthing FC's first team and been put forward for England schools trials, George Dowell appeared to be at the start of a promising career as a footballer.

George Dowell

But, at the age of 17, that was cruelly taken from him when a car crash in 2010 left him paralysed from the chest down.

It was a devastating blow, but one that Dowell would not let get the better of him and, despite his condition, he was determined to remain involved in football.

So he did, by buying the club he once played for...

Read more on this and other stories from the other 160 non-league clubs taking part in this season's FA Cup.

Moore to return at Newmarket

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Top jockey Ryan Moore is set to return at Newmarket on Thursday after more than two months out with a neck injury.

Three-time champion Moore, 32, has been booked to ride Peterhof in the Arkle Finance Handicap for trainer Sir Michael Stoute.

Moore was injured at Newmarket's July Festival when his horse Newton's Law became trapped in the stalls.

The jockey, who rode a record nine winners at Royal Ascot in June, is back for flat racing's big autumn contests.

On this day

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In 1988, Ben Johnson won the 100m at the Seoul Olympics in a world record time of 9.79 seconds. The time was expunged from the records and the gold medal taken from the Canadian sprinter when drug tests proved he had taken performance-boosting anabolic steroids.

Ask Phil...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Gavin Robson: Pressure is on Steve McClaren but who could Newcastle realistically bring in to replace him?

I'm not sure Newcastle United are thinking about replacing him so soon. It would make the owners look incompetent and farcical if they dismissed him this early - but he needed to make a fast start because he arrived as damaged goods.

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Instead, it has been utterly wretched and nothing has happened to change the minds of those fans sceptical about his appointment in the first place.

Owner Mike Ashley did spend money on the team this summer to be fair, but nothing has changed so you have to ask about the buying policy and the role of chief scout Graham Carr. They look a disunited team.

Whiley wins again

Wheelchair tennis player Jordanne Whiley has reached the semi final of the Sardinia Open... She seems to be making a bit of winning doesn't she...

Go on Jordanne!

Errani and Halep win, but who's watching?

Sara Errani and Simona Halep are both through to the quarter finals of the Guangzhou International Women's Open,  not that many people were there to see it.

Halep beat Timea Babos 6-4, 6-0, while beat Kai-Lin Zhang 6-7, 6-4, 6-2 - but there aren´t many fans on the stands in China to watch players compete... 

Lack of players on Alderney

The only football club on the Channel Island of Alderney has been forced to pull out of their league, as there are not enough players on the island.

Alderney Nomads are reigning champions of Guernsey's Jackson League - the second tier of football in Guernsey.

But a combination of injuries and players leaving to go travelling means there are not enough men to form an 11.

BBC

"We've lost nine players from the squad that we had last season," manager Alan Adamson told BBC Radio Guernsey.

According to Alderney's 2013 census  1,903 people live on the island.

Klopp for Motherwell?

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So who will replace Ian Baraclough at Motherwell?

According to one bookmaker, former Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp is the third favourite, while Thierry Henry, Ronald Koeman and Pep Guardiola are also quoted at eye-wateringly short prices.

Worth a couple of quid? 

Favourite sporting computer games

What is your favourite sporting computer game?

Andrew Burton: Sensible World Of Soccer. Greatest game ever made.

imfootballmad: NBA Jam. Whenever you scored 3 baskets you were on fire and could do mad tricks like smashing the backboard glass.

Rich Barber: Gary Lineker's hot shot.  

Rich Barber

'Players should hang heads in shame'

Some Motherwell players should "hang their heads in shame" following the departure of manager Ian Baraclough, says owner Les Hutchison.

SNS

LinkThe Fir Park club parted company with Baraclough, 44, on Wednesday with the Steelmen third bottom of the Scottish Premiership and out of the League Cup.

"There's a few that really need to hang their head in shame today that a fine a young man has gone down the road to see his wife and family," Hutchison said. 

"It's an extremely sad day. Motherwell has never been a club that has hired and fired people; that's just not the way things are done."

No punishment for Arsenal or Spurs

Marc Higginson

BBC Sport

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur will not be punished by the Football Association following crowd trouble during the north London derby on Wednesday.

Fans in the away end were pictured damaging hoardings in the upper tiers as Arsenal won 2-1 at White Hart Lane.

The Metropolitan Police have arrested 10 spectators for a range of offences at the League Cup tie, including criminal damage.

The FA says the matter is a criminal issue and they will assist the police.

Celebrating in style

Wales team announcement

Dafydd Pritchard

BBC Sport Wales

Hallam Amos over Alex Cuthbert, and starts for Gareth Davies and Tom Francis give the team some fresh dynamism. Promises to be tight.  

Twickenham will shake when England and Wales collide. Two muscular sides and, where Wales are concerned, familiar and dependable.

This is big, people...

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Colin Farthing, take a bow...

"Denise Lewis heptathlon on the BBC Sport website. Amazing game," he writes.

It was, and it still is. Have a shot here...

Oh dear, poor Lotus

Lotus driver Romain Grosjean had to do interviews in the rain and was fed by Renault before the Japanese Grand Prix.

The British-based constructor face an uncertain future amid mounting money problems, and they were locked out of their hospitality tent on Thursday.

"It's good to see the hospitality you get in the paddock when you are running out of food and the other teams are opening their doors," said Grosjean.

Lotus are in court for a third time on 28 September over an unpaid tax bill.

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Wales team announcement

Scott Baldwin takes over from Ken Owens at hooker for Wales game with England at Twickenham on Saturday.

Bradley Davies comes in for Luke Charteris in the second row, while prop Gethin Jenkins will play in his fourth Rugby World Cup.

Welsh Rugby Union

De Gea proud to captain Man Utd

He may have been close to joining Real Madrid on deadline day, but that hasn't stopped David de Gea tweeting his delight at having the opportunity to take the captain's armband during Manchester United's 3-0 win over Ipswich.

You look stressed...

BreakingWales team announcement

Liam Williams is fit to start at full-back for Wales for their match with England at the Rugby World Cup at Twickenham on Saturday.

Hallam Amos gets the nod over Alex Cuthbert on the wing, while Tomas Francis starts at tighthead prop.

BBC

Grab a cuppa and a biscuit...

A Question of Sport Teaser

Here's today's quiz question for you to mull over while you munch on your elevenses... One of the Sportsday team has gone for a serrano ham bagel. Fancy.

Who are the six players whose surnames begin with F to have played in the Ryder Cup since 2002?

See how many you can name - and we'll give you the answers later on.

McClaren running out of friends

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Newcastle United fans are often accused of expecting too much. This is a nonsense as all they really want is a show of ambition - but what they should expect is their team to overcome what was effectively Sheffield Wednesday reserves.

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The reaction at St James' Park said it all as Newcastle United were dumped out of the Capital One Cup to continue Steve McClaren's wretched start in charge on Tyneside.

McClaren was not an appointment to set pulses racing, especially after his failure to guide Derby County into the Championship play-offs despite strong backing, and needed a fast start. Instead they have slumped towards the foot of the Premier League without a win and been humiliated in the Capital One Cup. 

McClaren has had a phone installed in his technical area - he will soon be running of friends to phone on Tyneside if this carries on.

Your favourite sporting computer games

Loving this topic, it's bringing out the geeks in all of us...

GiladLipschitz: For me it's Don Bradman Cricket 14. The best cricket game ever. A 20 year career mode is just what a game needs.  

Alton Williams: Has to be Match Day II on the Spectrum or Sensible Soccer on the Atari ST. Fifa Shmifa!  

Markus P: Sensible World Of Soccer on the Amiga. It was a brilliantly simple game & so much fun. Lost hours of my life to it.  

West Ham news conference

Vicki-Jane Edwards

BBC London

On the back of wins away at Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal, West Ham manager Slaven Bilic will not underestimate Saturday's home opponents Norwich City.

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The Hammers will need to get out of the blocks early to avoid having to come back from being behind like against Leicester on Tuesday and Bournemouth last month.

Dmitri Payet and Adrian have proved to be two stand-out players so far this season, and have dominated at different ends of the field. Payet made a big difference when he came on against Leicester and Adrian's performances have saved the Hammers on multiple occasions.

Don't read into Rodgers no show

Ian Kennedy

Reporter, BBC Radio Merseyside Sport

Carlisle deserve a lot of credit, but Liverpool would have been looking for a convincing and morale-boosting win with a few goals thrown in. 

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A lot has been made about the fact that coach Gary McAllister did the post match press conference, but you have to remember that the Scot also did the pre-match press conference, and it’s normal in this competition for assistant managers and other coaches to conduct the media conferences after the game. 

Perhaps we shouldn't read too much into that.

West Brom news conference

Tony Pulis made 10 changes for West Brom's League Cup defeat by Norwich as he rested Gareth McAuley, Chris Brunt and Salomon Rondon after admitting they needed a break ahead of Everton's visit. 

"Those players have had the opportunity to have an extra day off. On Saturday, Sunday and Monday morning we'll really prepare," he said.

West Brom news conference

Tony Pulis believes West Brom's fans have forgiven 'naughty child' Saido Berahino for wanting to leave. 

The 22-year-old was rested in Wednesday's 3-0 Capital One Cup defeat at Norwich but is expected to start at The Hawthorns against Everton on Monday.

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"They truly are in love with their football club and they want their football club to do well and Saido is a big part of that now," he said.

"They have embraced him and brought him back into the fold - that naughty child!"

GB to face Japan in Davis Cup 2016

West Ham news conference

Slaven Bilic is pleased with how West Ham have taken their chances so far this season.....

West Ham news conference

Slaven Bilic also says he won't rush Andy Carroll back into action after he made his first start since February in their League Cup defeat by Leicester.

Vettel a 'serious threat' for title bid - Hamilton

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Lewis Hamilton considers Sebastian Vettel to be a serious threat to his championship bid, but has hailed Ferrari's resurgence as "great" for Formula One.

Hamilton remains the odds-on favourite to secure consecutive titles despite Vettel's victory in Singapore last Sunday. 

With six races to go, the Ferrari driver is now 49 points adrift of Hamilton, who retired for the first time this season after a loss of power at the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

West Brom news conference

Mark Regan

BBC WM Sport

Tony Pulis was still sitting uneasy in his chair this morning, only hours after after losing at Norwich on Wednesday, as the pre-Everton press call was at 09:00 BST.

He wasn`t prickly, as such, with the media but he admitted the players were going to “get it” this morning, so the loss at Carrow Road is still very fresh in his mind.

Chris Brunt, Gareth McAuley and Saloman Rondon were all carrying knocks after the victory at Villa and so were rested for the trip to Norwich, bit will all be back for Monday's game against Everton at the Hawthorns.

West Ham news conference

Vicki-Jane Edwards

BBC London

Despite becoming the first team in the Premier League to win away at Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City in a season - West Ham manager Slaven Bilic isn't getting carried away....

Testing times ahead for Rodgers

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

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No let up in the pressure on Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers. The victory on penalties against Carlisle may have secured a home tie with Bournemouth in the next round of the League Two  – but a scrambled win against a side 65 places lower on the league ladder does not point to happier times ahead.

Rodgers now faces two huge Premier League games at home to Aston Villa then, of much greater significance, a visit to Everton in the Merseyside derby.

A victory at Goodison Park would cure a lot of ills, at least temporarily, but defeat – and the undoubtedly toxic reaction from Liverpool fans already in despair – may be a loss too far.

West Ham news conference

Vicki-Jane Edwards

BBC London

West Ham boss Slaven Bilic is speaking to the media this morning too....

England team to face Wales

Controversial, Greenwood...

Ask Phil

BBC Sport's chief football writer Phil McNulty will be answering your questions about any of the footballing issues in Sportsday later today. 

Leave your questions for Phil on the BBC Match of the Day Facebook page.

Your favourite sporting computer games

Alex Brocklehurst: Does Mario Kart count? Bought a Wii+ game as an impulse buy recently worth the effort of going to every second hand game store!  

A quick straw poll has decided it counts...

Thoughts?

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Scottish League Cup results

Hibernian manager Alan Stubbs says knocking Aberdeen out of the Scottish League Cup is a great confident boost for his side.

Goals in the last 10 minutes from Jason Cummings and Dominique Malonga ended Aberdeen's 100% winning start to the domestic season.

Here are the results from Wednesday's Scottish League Cup fixtures:

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Happy birthday

In the starting line-up for England for the World Cup and cake...?

Brilliant day for Owen Farrell.

Danny Care on Instagram

Mourinho believes retaliation is now allowed

The Football Association has set a dangerous precedent by rescinding the red card given to Arsenal's Gabriel, says Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho.

Defender Gabriel was sent off for kicking Diego Costa in Chelsea's 2-0 Premier League win on Saturday.

Mourinho said: "Now we know that retaliation is allowed. No problem, you can do it."

#JoseLogic...

Reuter

Mourinho said he had not spoken about Costa's three-match ban for fear of being suspended.

BreakingEngland team to face Wales

England have opted to alter their midfield for Saturday's pivotal World Cup match against Wales at Twickenham. 

Owen Farrell, Sam Burgess and Brad Barritt form the midfield as Bily Vunipola starts at No 8.

England XV: Mike Brown, Anthony Watson, Brad Barritt, Sam Burgess, Jonny May, Owen Farrell, Ben Youngs; Joe Marler, Tom Youngs, Dan Cole, Geoff Parling, Courtney Lawes, Tom Wood, Chris Robshaw, Billy Vunipola

England Rugby

On this day

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In 1989, Europe retained the Ryder Cup following a 14-14 draw with the United States at The Belfry. And, in 2006, they won for the fifth time in six matches with a record-equalling 18.5-9.5 victory at the K Club.

Your favourite sporting computer games

These are coming in fast already. Keep it up you lot. 

Tom Catton: Any Championship/ Football Manager game. Anyone who has played it knows why! Bishops Stortford Euro Champions 2022!!  #addictive

Will Thomas: Too easy, has to be Fifa 98. One reason, indoor mode  

Andy Whittingham: Daley Thompson's Decathlon on the Commodore 64 - How to batter your joystick and get calloused hands...

Ahem..... 

West Brom news conference

A late night and an early morning for West Brom boss Tony Pulis, who is already speaking to the media ahead of their Premier League game with Everton on Monday.

We'll bring you the best of it shortly...

Get Involved

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The mood might be a little bleak around Anfield at the moment but one source of consolation is that Jordan Henderson will appear on the cover of Fifa 16.

The Liverpool captain will join Lionel Messi on the front of the game - which is released on Thursday in the UK - after he beat Harry Kane, Sergio Aguero and Thibaut Courtois in a public vote. 

That got us thinking... what is your favourite sporting computer game and why?

Let us know at #bbcsportsday and on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

'Formula 1 too difficult to watch'

The father of late Formula 1 star Jules Bianchi has said it is still "too difficult" to watch the sport, as the one-year anniversary of his son's fatal crash at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix approaches.

In an exclusive interview, Philippe Bianchi told BBC Sport: "Perhaps in a few months, a few years, I can see again a grand prix, I don't know, but for the moment, it is too difficult."

See the full interview here.

The Hit

BBC

The Hit is our brilliant new video round up of action from the Rugby World Cup.

Today, we look back at Scotland's 45-10 victory over Japan in their opening match of their World Cup campaign.

Elsewhere, Australia make a stuttering start as they fail to earn a bonus point in their 28-13 win against Group B rivals Fiji in Cardiff and France beat Romania 38-11 to continue their winning start in Pool D.

On this day in 2000

Button 'hiding something'

Jenson Button has taken part in a news conference this morning. 

He has said he is in "good talks" with McLaren about his future but declined to say if he will retire at the end of the season.  

BBC Sport's Chief F1 reporter Andrew Benson has been tweeting from Japan.

This is what he makes of the situation...

Eriksen makes child cry

Italian newspaper Gazzetta World have acquired a video of Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen making a small child cry... 

But before you form an opinion on the Dane he is simply having a kick about and the little lad doesn't enjoy being outsmarted...

Bless him! Someone give him a cuddle.

Gazetta World

Middlesbrough next...

Bragging rights...

Carneiro debate rages on....

According to The Express, Women in Football says it will be "extremely surprised" if Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is not charged after sending the Football Association video footage of his touchline disagreement with team doctor Eva Carneiro.

Carneiro decided to leave the club, six weeks after criticism from the manager. 

Read on here...

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Newcastle fans, look away now...

If you can bear it, listen again to the moment Steve McClaren's Newcastle were knocked out of the League Cup on Wednesday...

Gossip time...

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According to reports in The Mirror, Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil, could be in line for a new deal, as boss Arsene Wenger prepares for a major review of first-team contracts.  

Read more gossip here.

Happy birthday to who?

Thursday's back pages

The Sun and the Daily Express have done the awkward, 'turn-up-in-the-same-outfit-to-a-party' thing with their chosen main photograph this morning but we will ignore that. 

They have also saved a slot for Tyson Fury and his Batman stunt at the news conference. More on that in a second...

The Sun

Thursday's back pages

The Mirror is reporting that Newcastle fans are starting to turn on Steve McClaren after Newcastle's poor start to the season continued.

The Mirror

Thursday's back pages

More League Cup action in the Metro. They have reflected on Arsenal's win at Tottenham with Mathieu Flamini taking centre stage.

The France midfielder scored two goals in a game for the first time for Arsenal - and could not have picked a better opposition than their fierce north London rivals.

The Metro

Thursday’s back pages

The Guardian have highlighted Scotland’s convincing performance in the Rugby World Cup on Wednesday, scoring five tries on their way to a 45-10 win against Japan.  

Saturday’s England v Wales match is also mentioned. According to reports, Wales are planning on focusing much of their energy on restricting Sam Burgess’ movement.

The Guardian

Thursday’s back pages

The Daily Express have outdone themselves with headline writing this morning. They have concentrated on Newcastle’s 1-0 defeat to Championship side, Sheffield Wednesday.

After the match, McClaren said: "Is the job harder than I thought? Absolutely. Without a doubt.

"People say it's a crisis and it's getting very close to it. We deserve to be criticised."

Read more here.

Daily Express

Welcome to Thursday's Sportsday

We had eight matches in the League Cup on Wednesday.

If you don't want to know the results, look away now...

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We will have reaction to these results plus we will look ahead to this weekend's sport. There are six Premier League news conferences and another Rugby World Cup match. 

But for now, let's have a look at today's back pages...