Sportsday - rolling football news

1. Blatter 'staying on as Fifa president'
2. West Brom v Everton (20:00 BST)
3. Grealish opts for England over Ireland
4. GET INVOLVED #bbcsportsday

Goodbye

That's it! Another busy Sportsday draws to a close, but the action is only just beginning. Make sure you get yourself over to our live text commentary of West Brom v Everton. We'll see you again tomorrow at 08:00 BST. Until then, farewell.

Commentator's notes

Ian Dennis

BBC Radio 5 live senior football reporter

I witnessed West Brom's win at Villa Park last weekend and naturally Saido Berahino grabbed the headlines.However, it was Jonny Evans who caught my eye. He marshalled the defence and showed leadership qualities in a resilient display.

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A combination of misfortune and lack of discipline were two major reasons why Evans only made 17 appearances for Manchester United last season. The Northern Ireland international will benefit from regular first team football and will thrive under Tony Pulis.

Both sides boast excellent defensive records in the league which suggests a tight game is in prospect, and after three draws in their last four meetings, I wouldn't be surprised to see another.

Match facts

• West Brom are yet to win at home this season (D1, L2)
• Everton are unbeaten away from home this season (W1, D2).
• Eleven of Saido Berahino's 15 Premier League goals since the start of last season have been scored at the Hawthorns
• Everton have failed to score in three of their last four league games.
• West Brom will be looking to keep their fourth consecutive top-flight clean sheet for the first time since March 1983

Lawro's predictions

Everton are unbeaten away from Goodison Park so far this season but I think they will find things tough against a West Brom team that are on the up. Tony Pulis has a few new players in his squad and they are getting used to the way his teams play, and seeing that it works.

Lawro's full predictions v Stereophonics frontman Kelly Jones

What the managers say - Roberto Martinez

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Martinez on Ross Barkley reaching 100 appearances: "Ross is in a very good moment of form.

"He has a real good mindset and it is incredible he has already reached that landmark - 100 games is an incredible figure. I see Ross as a very enthusiastic footballer who wants to get better and he hasn't fulfilled his potential yet."

What the managers say - Tony Pulis

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Pulis on Salomon Rondon: "We're just hoping he gets a bit more luck in front of goal, but it doesn't seem to affect him. He doesn't seem that type of character.

"Nothing seems to faze him, he's just a good lad. He could have had four or five easily, I'm sure he'll score the goals."

Konoplyanka blasts Premier League

Remember when Yevhen Konoplyanka was linked with a move to the Premier League? Like, every day of every transfer window? Well, it never happened and he ended up at Sevilla. And it seems he doesn't regret it.

The Ukraine winger told ABC de Sevilla: ""If I was two-and-a-half metres tall and didn’t know how to control a ball then I may have gone to England."

Burn...

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Team news

High five

Greek champions Olympiakos prepared for tomorrow's Champions League tie at Arsenal with a five-star performance at the weekend.

Olympiakos, who rested a number of key players ahead of the trip to London, thrashed visiting Giannina 5-1 to extend their perfect start in the Superleague to six matches.

Fully focused

Everton forward Arouna Kone is on the way to the Hawthorns with his team-mates...

London pulls out of 2017 Tour de France start

Matt Slater

BBC Sport

More on the news that London has pulled out of hosting the start of the 2017 Tour de France.

London beat bids from Edinburgh, Manchester and several German regions to stage the Grand Depart.

But Leon Daniels, managing director of surface transport at TfL, told BBC Sport: "To ensure value for money we must make difficult choices.

"We have always said that the return of the Tour was subject to funding."

London hosted a hugely successful Grand Depart in 2007 and the finish of the Tour's third stage in 2014.

BreakingLondon pulls out of 2017 Tour de France start

Matt Slater

BBC Sport

London won the right to host the start of the 2017 Tour de France - then changed its mind at the last minute.

Transport for London pulled out of hosting the Grand Depart last week, a day before contracts were meant to be signed, the BBC can exclusively reveal.

Fury in the Commons?

Litter on the streets. Unruly tearaways terrorising town centres. What can be done to solve these problems? Step forward an unlikely saviour...

Chase heads four Leigh signings

Championship club Leigh Centurions have signed Salford Red Devils quartet Rangi Chase, Harrison Hansen, Cory Paterson and Reni Maitua, head of rugby Derek Beaumont has confirmed to BBC Radio Manchester.

SWPIX.COM

England international half-back Chase was Super League's Man of Steel in 2011 during his time with Castleford.

He was suspended by Salford earlier this month pending an internal disciplinary investigation, and told he was free to leave the club last week.

McCall linked with Dundee United role

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Stuart McCall has distanced himself from the Dundee United manager's job, insisting he is concentrating on his Scotland assistant coach role.

Jackie McNamara, 41, has been relieved of his duties at Tannadice after a poor start to the season.

Former Motherwell and Rangers boss McCall, 51, was asked on BBC Scotland's Sportscene if he would be applying for the vacancy.

"I'm solely focused on the Scotland v Poland game," he said, though he did add: "It goes without saying, Dundee United are one of the bigger clubs in Scotland - really good fan base." Hmm...

Moyes remains under pressure

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David Moyes' difficult start to the season continued as his Real Sociedad side failed to score for the fourth time in six La Liga games.

La Real, who only earned their first league win of the campaign on Tuesday, were held to a 0-0 home draw against arch-rivals Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

The Basque derby, being played for the 141st time, ended goalless for the first time in 16 years.

And the pressure remains on ex-Everton and Manchester United manager Moyes as his side continue their search for a first home win of the season.

Clancy ruled out

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Two-time Olympic champion Ed Clancy has been ruled out of contention for the Great Britain squad for October's European Track Championships with a slipped disc.

The 30-year-old will not be available for the event in Grenchen, Switzerland, which takes place from 14-18 October, as a result of picking up the injury in training, British Cycling has announced. 

Wolves owner Morgan quits

More on the news that Wolves owner Steve Morgan has stepped down.

In a statement, the club said: "After eight eventful and enjoyable years at the club, and after much thought, owner and chairman Steve Morgan has decided to put his 100% shareholding in the Club up for sale. 

"Steve would like to relay to all concerned that his ongoing commitment and financial support to Wolves will continue until a new owner can be found."

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BreakingWolves owner Morgan quits

Wolverhampton Wanderers owner Steve Morgan has stepped down from the board with immediate effect and put the club up for sale.

Lawes doubtful for Australia clash

Chris Jones

BBC Sport

Lock Courtney Lawes is a major doubt for the Australia game on Saturday and won't train today or tomorrow. England will know by late Wednesday/early Thursday morning whether he is fit.

Jonathan Joseph is "making very good strides and ticking all the boxes" according to backs coach Andy Farrell, as the centre looks to recover from a chest injury, while scrum-half Ben Youngs is "making progress" on a swollen ankle, but he won't be able to train tomorrow.

Farrell says number eight Ben Morgan is "fully back into training and fine to go".

Blowing kisses

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Zenit St Petersburg forward Hulk says he blew kisses at Spartak Moscow fans because he allegedly received racist abuse during his side's Russian Premier League game.

The 29-year-old Brazilian gestured towards the home fans during injury-time of Saturday's 2-2 draw.

"Unfortunately, the same things are happening - racism in the stands," he told Zenit's official website.

"I won't pay any attention to this. I will continue to blow kisses and answer them with the way I play on the pitch."

Chappers gets a lift

Boost for Wales...

Dafydd Pritchard

BBC Sport Wales

Earlier we brought you news of two more injury withdrawals from the Wales squad. But it's not all doom and gloom for Warren Gatland's side...

West Indies coach suspended

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Phil Simmons has been suspended as coach of West Indies after expressing his disappointment at not getting the best possible one-day international squad for the forthcoming tour to Sri Lanka.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Simmons, who had blamed "interference from outside", received an email from the WICB earlier today confirmed his suspension.

Former West Indies fast bowler Eldine Baptiste will reportedly take over as coach on an interim basis.

Easter replaces Vunipola

More on the news that Harlequins number 8 Nick Easter has replaced Billy Vunipola in England's World Cup squad.

Head coach Stuart Lancaster said: "It's unfortunate for Billy but the scan shows an injury which will likely require six weeks' recovery. "Nick was unlucky to miss out on final selection. He is a specialist No.8 and an experienced player and we know he will make a big contribution."

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Platini to stay in Fifa presidency race

BreakingVunipola replaced by Easter in England squad

More breaking rugby news for you. England number 8 Billy Vunipola has been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup with a knee ligament injury.

Nick Easter has been called up in his place.

Who are the Wales replacements?

Gareth Anscombe primarily plays at fly-half but can also cover full-back. The New Zealand-born 24-year-old made his debut against Ireland last month - his only cap so far.

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Ben Arfa back in business

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Hatem Ben Arfa is rebuilding his career after his acrimonious split with Newcastle, and his two goals inspired Nice to a 4-1 victory away at Saint Etienne in France's Ligue 1.

It was his second brace in four days and moved Nice up to ninth in the table.

The 28-year-old Frenchman completed his move back to his homeland in June, after Fifa rules stated he couldn't play for the club when he first made the switch in January.

French football journalist Julien Laurens tweeted: "Ben Arfa has six Ligue 1 goals so far this season, like Edinson Cavani. No one has more. Talk about redemption..."

Breaking'I've done nothing illegal' - Blatter

Fifa president Sepp Blatter has issued a statement indicating that he intends to continue in his role and saying that he has done "nothing illegal".

The statement reads: "President Blatter spoke to Fifa staff today and informed the staff that he was cooperating with the authorities, reiterated that he had done nothing illegal or improper and stated that he would remain as president of Fifa.

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"On the Platini matter, President Blatter on Friday shared with the Swiss authorities the fact that M. Platini had a valuable employment relationship with Fifa serving as an advisor to the president beginning in 1998. 

"He explained to the prosecutors that the payments were valid compensation and nothing more and were properly accounted for within FIFA including the withholding of Social Security contributions."

Austin & Mackie out for QPR

QPR have suffered a big double blow, with strikers Charlie Austin and Jamie Mackie sidelined with hamstring injuries.

Austin is out for a month while Mackie will not play for three months.

The pair were injured in Friday's Championship defeat at Fulham.

Who are the Wales replacements?

James Hook is a versatile back with 78 caps. The 30-year-old has played at fly-half, centre and full-back during his 10-year Wales career.

Hook appeared to have fallen out of favour under coach Warren Gatland but Wales's injury crisis means he has been handed an unlikely chance to shine at what is his third World Cup.

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BreakingBlatter 'has done nothing illegal'

The Press Associations chief sports reporter has been tweeting about Sepp Blatter...

Wales summon Hook & Anscombe

Dafydd Pritchard

BBC Sport Wales

BreakingHook & Anscombe in for Amos & Williams

Wales duo Scott Williams and Hallam Amos have been ruled out of the rest of the Rugby World Cup after sustaining injuries in the win over England.

James Hook and Gareth Anscombe have been called up to replace them.

Former Real star dies

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Zoco, far right, pictured with fellow ex-Real players Amancio Amaro (left) and Jose Santamaria

Ignacio Zoco, a former Real Madrid defensive midfielder who won a European Cup and seven league championships along with the 1964 European title with Spain, has died at the age of 76.

During 12 seasons at Madrid, Zoco played 434 matches and scored 17 goals.

He made his international debut on April 19, 1961, in a match against Wales and played 25 games for Spain.

Maccarinelli lines up Jones bout

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Welsh boxer Enzo Maccarinelli is in advanced talks to face former five weight world champion Roy Jones Jr in Russia in November.

Maccarinelli, a former world cruiserweight champion, has been fighting at light heavyweight in recent years, but the proposed match against Jones Jr on 28 November would be at cruiserweight and could be for a world title.

Before that Maccarinelli is due to fight at Newport Leisure Centre on 10 October.

Sharapova pulls out

Piers Newbery

BBC Sport Tennis writer

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Maria Sharapova’s fitness remains a concern after the Russian withdrew from her comeback match in Wuhan, China.

The world number three, who had been sidelined since Wimbledon because of a leg injury, led Barbora Strycova of the Czech Republic7-6 (7-1) 6-7 (4-7) 2-1 when she pulled out with an arm injury.

Team news

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Now then, the weekend action in the Premier league isn't quite over.

West Brom take on Everton at 20:00 BST in what should be a fascinating contest, with both clubs in decent nick and improving over recent weeks.

For the Baggies, goalkeeper Boaz Myhill is set to return after Anders Lindegaard was given his debut in the midweek League Cup defeat at Norwich. Head coach Tony Pulis is likely to bring back many of the players rested for that game.

Meanwhile, Everton defenders John Stones and Seamus Coleman have knee and hamstring injuries respectively and will be given as long as possible to prove their fitness. Forward Kevin Mirallas is suspended.

Live text commentary on the BBC Sport website from 19:00 BST.

'I feel much better' - Nadal

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Rafael Nadal has vowed to put "a tough year" behind him as he prepares for what he hopes will be a return to Grand Slam winning ways in 2016.

A round-of-32 defeat to Fabio Fognini at the US Open this year meant Nadal had failed to mark a tennis season with a grand slam trophy for the first time since 2004.

"It was a tough. I was playing with too much anxiety for a lot of months, especially at the beginning of the season," Nadal told Sky Sports.

"Now I feel much better about that. Not a hundred per cent fix, but much better. I'm close to being 100 per cent fixed. And I am enjoying being on a tennis court, the practices, the competition."

Get involved - Grealish decision

Shane Daly: Grealish is overrated, young doesnt mean that you are good, will he get to go to a world cup with ENG? He may regret it later.

Colm Flynn: Taboo broken. Now current & former England U21s not yet capped at senior level can be targeted by Ireland and other nations.  

G Mac an tSabhasaigh: Disappointed Grealish has chosen England but I don't want mercenaries playing for Ireland. Good luck counting the £££ Jack.

Encouraging signs

Aside from Celtic, Britain's other Europa League representatives - Tottenham and Liverpool - may also be encouraged by their opponents' weekend fortunes.

Monaco, who welcome Tottenham to Stade Louis II on Thursday, surrendered the lead three times to draw 3-3 at French Ligue 1 rivals Guingamp.

And Swiss side Sion, who are fifth in the 10-team Super League, travel to Liverpool on the back of a 1-0 home defeat against Vaduz.

Van Persie on form

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Robin van Persie is hoping to return to Fenerbahce's starting XI to face Celtic in the Europa League after coming off the bench to score in the Istanbul derby at Besiktas.

But the Dutchman, who has scored in each of his last two games after appearing as a substitute, could not prevent Fenerbahce surrendering top spot to their opponents after a 3-2 derby defeat.

'I wanted to be part of his life'

At the age of 27, two-time national motocross champion Adrienne Cooper gave up a kidney and her career to save the life of 10-year-old Logan Carson.

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"Probably an hour after I met him, I told his mum that I would try to be his donor," American Cooper told BBC Sportshour.

"I knew I just wanted to put a part of Logan's life. I just wanted to be able to help.

"It was so much bigger than I had ever done in racing. Saving somebody's life goes unmatched."

Gerrard on target

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Steven Gerrard scored for LA Galaxy in a 3-2 win over FC Dallas which sent his side top of the MLS Supporters' Shield and Western Conference.

The former Liverpool captain put his side 3-1 up as he added to goals from Giovani dos Santos and Robbie Keane.

It was the midfielder's second goal in his 10 Galaxy appearances after he scored on his debut in July.

"I haven't had a problem with my confidence. I think the goal was good for the team," said Gerrard, 35.

Ask Chris...

Chris Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

Helen Davies: With Wales' ever growing injury list, who do you think will be called up to the squad and why?

Wales have a magnificent set of senior players but because of the population size and the small number of professional teams (only four), there is a lack of strength in depth. So there aren't too many options out there for Warren Gatland. 

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If fit, one or both of Eli Walker and Gareth Anscombe will come in - although there are doubts over Walker especially - while Rhys Patchell and James Hook are also contenders. 

Hook is clearly not part of Gatland's long-term plans, but he is experienced and can cover four positions in the backline. Jordan Williams and Tom Prydie are options to replace wing Hallam Amos.

Cliche or fact?

BBC Radio 4

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It is one of football management's biggest cliches. When a team struggles to get a result against opponents who've had a man sent off, the gaffer will say 'it's always tougher to play against 10 men'.

But is it? We can answer finally answer that burning question.

Radio 4 has employed a statistician to check if it's actually true.

What he discovers is rather interesting. You can listen to the clip here.

Pettini switches to Leicestershire

Richard Rae

BBC Radio Leicester Sport

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Leicestershire have completed a deal to sign Mark Pettini from Essex on a three-year-deal.

The 32-year-old has scored 7,926 first-class runs at an average of 36.73, including 46 fifties and 12 centuries.    

Get involved - Grealish decision

Beep Beep: A national team coach has to be pretty desperate to consider calling up a guy with 2-3 good games for Villa under his belt.

George Swindale: Jack Grealish has made a mistake; he'd get loads of caps for ROI. Personally can't ever see him being a big player for England.

Stuart McCall: ROI been stealing players from NI for years. Karma.

Bowman takes Dundee Utd reigns

SNS

Dave Bowman will take temporary charge of the Dundee United first team while the Premiership club begins the process of appointing a new manager.

Bowman, a former player and current assistant manager of the development squad and he will be assisted as caretaker by the club captain, Sean Dillon.

Jackie McNamara was relieved of his duties as manager following Saturday's 2-1 defeat at St Johnstone.

Dzeko out of key Bosnia qualifiers

Former Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko has been ruled out of Bosnia-Herzegovina's final pair of Euro 2016 qualifying matches.

The Balkan team currently lie fourth in Group B, behind Wales, Belgium and Israel. They face Wales and Cyprus in their final games, needing at least three points to stand any chance of qualification.

Dzeko has scored seven goals so far in the campaign and is the equal third top scorer in the entire qualifying process.

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Evans leaves Rotherham

Rob Staton

BBC Radio Sheffield

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Even the Rotherham United statement admits this is surprising news. Steve Evans often boasted a fantastic working relationship with chairman Tony Stewart and recently stated he’d been told he had a job for life.

Persistent rumours linking Evans with the Peterborough job could be behind this parting of ways. Either way, it’s a stunning day for Rotherham fans and the Scot will be a tough act to follow. 

The former Leeds manager Neil Redfearn attended the Millers’ recent 2-1 victory over Cardiff City and he’s one of the favourites to take over at the New York Stadium.

Scottish League Cup quarter-final draw

The draw has been made for the quarter-finals of the Scottish League Cup and the ties are as follows...

Hibernian v Dundee Utd

Morton v St Johnstone

Inverness CT v Ross County

Hearts v Celtic  

The games will be played on October 27 & 28

Ask Chris...

Chris Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

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Christopher Morris: Why does the ‘no.8’ not have a position like flanker, etc?

The number eight is called that because he or she is the eighth person in the scrum. The flankers are on the "flank" of the scrum... I can't really explain that much better I'm afraid.

Ask Chris...

Chris Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

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David B: Why on earth are the groups drawn years in advance? It's like Wimbledon doing seedings now for 2017.

It seems crazy, doesn't it, because the world rankings now are completely different to what they were when the draw was made in 2012. Back then, Wales were outside the top eight - which is why they were drawn in with Australia and England - and now they have moved up to second.

The explanation is that there is a huge amount of planning and logistics that need to take place - sorting stadiums, schedules, selling tickets - but World Rugby have admitted that they will try to make the draw later when it comes to the 2019 tournament in Japan. 

Ask Chris...

Earlier, we asked you to put your questions on the Rugby World Cup to BBC Radio 5 live rugby reporter Chris Jones. Here are some of the best...

Grealish opts for England

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given tweets...

Scottish League Cup draw

The draw for the Scottish League Cup quarter-finals will take place very soon, and you can watch it right here.

Celtic, Dundee United, Morton, Hearts, Hibernian, Inverness Caledonian Thistle, Ross County and St Johnstone are the teams in the hat.

Courtois continues recovery

An update from Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois, who is currently sidelined with a knee injury...

Thibaut Courtois/Instagram

Evans leaves Rotherham

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Safe to say Steve Evans' departure came as a surprise...

Here is his final interview as Rotherham manager, with BBC Radio Sheffield following Saturday's 2-0 win at Birmingham.

England wilting under pressure - Guscott

England are wilting under the pressure of a home World Cup - that's the opinion of former England centre Jeremy Guscot in his latest BBC Sport column.

"It seems clear that most of England's players are struggling to find their best form under the intense pressure of a home Rugby World Cup," he writes.

"They should be flourishing under this support and buoyed by the feel-good factor, but instead they seem to be burdened by it."

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Lisicki's season over

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World number 28 Sabine Lisicki says she will sit out the rest of the tennis season to heal a knee injury.

The 2013 Wimbledon runner-up last played at the U.S. Open and lost to Simona Halep in the fourth round.

Lisicki wrote on her Facebook page that she's been struggling with the injury since before the US Open.

Despite getting treatment from two doctors in Germany, Lisicki says "unfortunately my knee is not ready and I will not compete at tournaments this season.".

Rodgers unmoved by 'frenzy and hysteria'

Mike Hughes

Reporter, BBC Radio Merseyside Sport

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Brendan Rodgers is adamant that he can overcome what he's termed as " a frenzy and hysteria "aimed at him and his Liverpool team.

He also admits that the 3-2 win over Aston Villa at the weekend was an important one and says having Daniel Sturridge back in the starting line-up line up makes a massive difference.

“Daniel has shown during his time here that he’s a top talent. When you miss that quality of your team you can suffer,” he said.

Get involved - Grealish decision

Ruairi McEvoy: Disappointed with Grealish's decision. He would have been good back up to Wessi Hoolahan.

Rossco: With that decision Grealish's value has just quadrupled.

Phillipa Dasher: Jack Grealish was born in Solihull, he's English. Better to play for country of birth and origin.

Platini 'won't withdraw from race'

Dan Roan

BBC Sports editor

Uefa presidentMichel Platiniis meeting with his advisers on Monday to discuss the £1.35m payment he received from Sepp Blatter in 2011 - for work he says he undertook for his Fifa counterpart from 1999-2002.

He will release a statement later, but according to sources close to him, he will not be withdrawing from the FIFA presidential election race.

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Blatter is facing criminal proceedings over the payment. Platini is only a witness, but the latest twist in the FIFA scandal has meant that he is no longer the favourite to replace the Swiss in February.

The FA - one of the national football associations that supported Platini's candidacy - is keen to hear the Frenchman's explanation of the nine-year delay in payment.

Get involved - Grealish decision

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Daniel Hykin: Who cares? Grealish isn't currently good enough to be in squad. Can see him getting a 5 min run out to tie him to ENG though.

Darko Pjevac: Is Jack Grealish footballer or economist? Sad that it all comes down to money, not honor, pride & duty while you chose future.

Jim Harrison: Grealish's reasons are irrelevant. He doesn't have to justify his decision to anyone.

Arsenal news conference

John Southall

BBC Radio Five Live football reporter

BBC Sport

Arsene Wenger admitted the intensity and quality of the Premier League can make playing in the Champions League harder. He also stressed that Arsenal can't afford to drop any home points in their group.

He questioned Alex Oxlade Chamberlain's self belief last week but the manager must have been talking about on the pitch because it was a very assured and articulate performance from the England international.

He spoke in glowing terms about Alexis Sanchez and the influence he has on the squad. He agreed with his manager, too, because his Dad also thinks he should have more self belief...

Rangers game rescheduled

Rangers have postponed their Petrofac Training Cup quarter-final against Livingston because of international call-ups.

The match was due to take place at Ibrox on 9 October but has been rescheduled for Tuesday, 20 October.

Grealish opts for England

The Telegraph's Luke Edwards has posted this dispiriting tweet...

Grealish opts for England

Arsenal news conference

Get Involved - Grealish decision

What do you think of Jack Grealish's decision to choose England over the Republic of Ireland.

The right or wrong thing to do?

Let us know at #bbcsportsday and we'll publish the best replies.

Grealish opts for England

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Earlier this month, England boss Roy Hodgson called for Grealish to make his mind up about which country he wanted to represent.

“I’m not 100% certain of what he is waiting for,” Hodgson said. "As far as I am concerned, I would like him to come out and say. ‘I’ve thought about it, I’ve got the two possibilities and I’m opting for England’ and then, of course, he will be available for selection.”

Seems Grealish has taken heed of those words...

Grealish opts for England

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In May, Grealish turned down a place in the Republic of Ireland squad for the friendly against England and Euro qualifier against Scotland.

There was speculation that the in-form midfielder would be called up by Republic boss Martin O'Neill but Grealish asked not to be included.

Birmingham-born Grealish can also play for England although he has already represented the Republic's Under-21s.

BreakingGrealish opts for England

The young midfielder played for the Republic of Ireland at under-21 level.

Arsenal news conference

Here's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain with some uncontroversial/factual opinions on his team-mates...

Arsenal news conference

Arsene Wenger is in the house, everyone. First order of business: an injury update...

Dijkhuizen leaves Brentford

Shocked? Resignation? Something has been a little lost in translation, it seems...

Evans leaves Rotherham

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Evans hit the headlines a couple of weeks ago when he stripped Greg Halford of the club captaincy and handed the role to Lee Frecklington after a winless first seven games.

"If you've got a decision wrong, sometimes you have to come out and change it quickly," said Evans.

"The weaker managers - and there are lots of them that will never win a promotion or be successful - will make a mistake but be stubborn and never change it."

Arsenal news conference

Still waiting to hear from Arsene Wenger. Sit tight, folks...

Evans leaves Rotherham

Rotherham had actually won their last two games in the Championship, following up a 2-1 home victory over Cardiff with a 2-0 win at Birmingham on Saturday.

However, those were the club's first wins of the season, having lost five of their opening seven games.

Evans leaves the Millers 20th in the table, a point above the drop zone.

Evans leaves Rotherham

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Evans departure from Rotherham comes after a meeting with chairman Tony Stewart.

"It became clear that both parties at the present time wished to head in a different direction," reads a statement on the Rotherham website.

"The meeting was at all times positive, constructive and straightforward. It was clear that the chairman and the management team only wanted what they felt was best for Rotherham United."

Eric Black has taken over as manager on a temporary basis.

BreakingEvans leaves Rotherham

Steve Evans has left his position as Rotherham manager.

What a goal

BBC Sport

You know what's really great about the really early stages of the FA Cup? You get to see keepers do this sort of thing.

Holbeach goalie Ricky Drury scored a dramatic overhead equaliser with the last kick of his side's FA Cup second qualifying round tie against Worcester City. Cue pandemonium.

The match finished 1-1, with the the replay due to take place at Aggborough on Tuesday.

(Pictures courtesy of Worcester City FC TV)

Magic of the Cup

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Just because the big clubs aren't involved yet, it doesn't mean the FA Cup isn't well underway.

It is, and in fact the draw for the third round of qualifying has just taken place.

Here's one tie for you - Midland League Premier Division outfit Sporting Khalsa (in the ninth tier of English football) entertain Spalding United from the Northern Premier League’s Division One South (tier eight).

Will we see Sporting Khalsa in the first round proper on the weekend of 7/8 November? They must win this game and get through a fourth and final round of qualifying (when the National League clubs come in) to make it.

Arsenal news conference

John Southall

BBC Radio Five Live football reporter

BBC Sport

Afternoon from London Colney, expecting an upbeat Arsene Wenger after the weekend's results. It's an important week for Arsenal with Olympiakos on Tuesday and Manchester United on Sunday.

Just don't mention Jose Mourinho...

Home (not so) sweet home

Wallace extension

De Villiers bows out

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South Africa captain Jean de Villiers has retired from international rugby after being ruled out of the rest of the World Cup with a fractured jaw.

Centre De Villiers, who was injured during Saturday's 46-6 win over Samoa, played 109 times for his country.

That makes the 34-year-old Stormers man the fourth most-capped player in the history of South African Test rugby.

"Rugby will be poorer without Jean," said coach Heyneke Meyer. "He is a true ambassador for South Africa."

Get Involved

Just a nudge to remind you that BBC Radio 5 live's rugby expert Chris Jones is waiting for your questions about the Rugby World Cup. 

Pick his brains at #bbcsportsday or on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Renault sign Lotus buyout letter

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Renault have signed a letter of intent to buy a controlling stake in Lotus. 

The French manufacturer have been in talks to buy Lotus for several months.

In a statement, Renault said it was the "first step towards the project of a Renault Formula 1 team" from the 2016 season. 

City eye United target

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Daily Star: Manchester City could move for 24-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara - a former target for Manchester United.

Wood can face Australia

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England flanker Tom Wood is free to play in Saturday's World Cup match against Australia after being warned for striking Wales full-back Liam Williams at Twickenham, tournament organisers have announced.

Seventh heaven

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In Germany, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has become the first player to score in the first seven matches of a Bundesliga season as Borussia Dortmund drew with Darmstadt.

The Gabon striker found the net twice in eight second-half minutes after Marcel Heller put the visitors ahead.

Aubameyang levelled from Matthias Ginter's cross after 63 minutes, before netting his 10th goal of the season from Adnan Januzaj's pass.

Darmstadt's Aytac Sulu hit a 90th-minute equaliser to secure a draw.

Wales make rankings jump

Just when they thought their weekend could not get any better... 

Doctor in the house

Now then, one for you youngsters.

Some chap called Dr Dre - not sure who he is but I've been told he works as a locum in a GP's surgery near Colchester - has received a Manchester United shirt, signed by all the players, for his 50th birthday.

ManUtd.com

Ah, seems like someone was pulling my leg. Just discovered this Dre chap is a famous American rapper, mentor to Eminem no less, and he was given the shirt by his friend, film director and lifelong Red Charlie Parish.

"When I presented the shirt to Dre, he was genuinely shocked that a football club would go to so much trouble just for him. He loved it and said he’d frame it in his house," said Parrish.

Full story here.

Get Involved

AFP

You've been giving us your thoughts on the news that baseball/softball, karate, skateboard, sport climbing and surfing have been recommended for inclusion in the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo...

Jack Newsome: Skateboarding would surely be more entertaining than some of the current Olympic sports (dressage springs to mind)

Henry Ashman: There's 22 medals for 2 martial arts already, no need for another 10+ for karate. How will surfing work for a landlocked host?

Eh, Japan? Landlocked? We'll charitably assume you mean future Games, Henry...

Five sports recommended for Tokyo 2020

So, what events can we expect to see from these new sports? How will they work at the Olympics?

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Well, baseball and softball will be six-team competitions (that means half the entrants will get a medal). Karate will be split into the 'kata' and 'kumite' events (don't ask), while skateboard will have 'street' and 'park' disciplines (words fail us).

Anyway, the final decision on which of the sports make it to the Olympics will be made at an IOC meeting in Rio next summer.

Let us know what you think of the recommendations at #bbcsportsday.

Pellegrini walks out ... of press conference

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Manchester City full-back Bacary Sagna believes his team's 4-1 defeat by Tottenham on Saturday came because they were too cocky as a result of their five-match unbeaten run, reports The Sun.

Meanwhile The Times says City manager Manuel Pellegrini walked out of a post-match press conference, telling reporters "if you want to talk about stupid things then I do not answer stupid things".

Walters up for grabs

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After scoring in the 2-1 win over Bournemouth at the weekend, Stoke forward Jonathan Walters said his future at the club remains unresolved, reports the Daily Telegraph.

The 32-year-old is out of contract next summer.

Five sports recommended for Tokyo 2020

Reuters

More on the news that five new sports have been recommended for inclusion to the Olympic programme.

Baseball/softball would be returning to the Games after it was cut after the 2004 Olympics.

Meanwhile, the likes of karate and surfing would be making their debut. Surfing secured its place with the somewhat dubious promise to bring "inherently youthful values and a blend of high performance, style and digital connectivity." Er...

Gardener to become UK Athletics president

Former Olympic sprinter Jason Gardener is to become the new president of UK Athletics.

He will replace Welsh former long jumper Lynn Davies.

Gardener was on the independent panel that cleared UK Athletics of any wrongdoing in their relationship with controversial coach Alberto Salazar 10 days ago.

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Get Involved

Now then, about this Rugby World Cup....

We appreciate that a lot of you are perhaps tourists when it comes to the 15-a-side game so we've lined up BBC Radio 5 live's rugby expert Chris Jones to answer a few questions.

Maybe you want to know how the points work? Or what actually goes on in a scrum? And what the script is with the Haka?

Get in touch at #bbcsportsday or on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

What's a sport?

This after sports climbing was recommended for inclusion in the Olympics...

Skateboarding? At the Olympics?

Well, you may well shake your heads in disgust, but that could be the case in 2020. Skateboarding is among five new sports that have been recommended for inclusion in the Olympic programme in five years' time.

Baseball/softball, karate, sports climbing and surfing are also in. Squash was among the sports that missed out. 

@tokyo2020

Talbot returns to Saints

Rochdale Hornets are advertising for a new head coach following Ian Talbot's decision to leave the League 1 club.

Talbot left his backroom role at St Helens to take charge of Hornets three years ago and has now opted to return to the Super League champions. 

Vieira a Sunderland target?

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The Mirror is reporting that Sunderland are considering whether to replace boss Dick Advocaat with 39-year-old former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira, who is head of the elite development squad at Manchester City.

The Black Cats lost 3-0 at Manchester United and are bottom of the Premier League.

Bad luck with injuries

BBC

'Unlucky' Dijkhuizen runs out of time

Murray Burnell

BBC London

A chaotic start to English management comes to an abrupt end for Marinus Dijkhuizen, who was only appointed as Brentford manager in June. 

During his brief tenure, the Dutch manager has had to deal with matters out of his control, such as problems with the pitch leading to a home game with Birmingham being postponed.

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On the pitch, it has been far from a successful spell, with last season's Championship play-off semi-finalists winning just two of their opening eight games. 

In his defence, Dijkhuizen has been unlucky with injuries and has had to deal with the departure of some key players. His undoing may well be that he was indeed too honest in interviews with the media, something that may well have irked owner Matthew Benham. 

Question marks also hovered over whether he had a strong enough relationship and rapport with players who he didn't sign.

Scotland's Gilchrist out of World Cup

More on the news that Scotland lock Grant Gilchrist has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament.

The Edinburgh player, who has captained his country on three occasions, sustained a groin injury in the first half of the win over the USA on Sunday.

A replacement will be named in due course. Meanwhile, Finn Russell has sustained an "inversion injury to his ankle". No, us neither.

AFP

Having a kickabout

@CelticRumours/Twitter

Take a bow Craig Gordon.

Normally when big-time footballers leave a football stadium after a game, they do so wearing massive headphones, heads bowed, refusing to make eye contact with anyone.

Not so the Celtic keeper.

Gordon delighted fans by stopping outside Celtic Park following the goalless draw with Hearts, putting down his kit bag and going in goal while inviting young supporters to take shots at him.

What a guy.

Scotland's Gilchrist out of World Cup

Tom English

BBC Scotland

Give us a kiss

It's Monday, you're not in a great mood, you want a story to make you go all warm and gooey inside. We can do that.

Romania scrum-half Florin Surugiu proposed to his girlfriend at Wembley moments after his team were beaten 44-10 by Ireland at  the Rugby World Cup.

Rugby World Cup

These rugby lads might be big, powerful boys who enjoy spending 80 minutes clattering into each other but it doesn't mean they don't have a soft side

The Daily Mail reports that straight after the Ireland game, with thousands still inside the stadium and his team-mates gathered behind him, Surugiu brought girlfriend Alexandria out on to the pitch, got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.

She said yes. Would have been mighty embarrassing for everyone had she not.

'He has hugely impressed'

Looks like Lee Carsley will be given a proper chance to show he can make a success of the manager's job at Brentford.

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Appointed boss until the end of the season following the sacking of Marinus Dijkhuizen and assistant Roy Hendriksen, the Championship club said: "Lee has vast experience of the English game and has hugely impressed with his work with the club's development squad.

"The club believes Lee deserves the opportunity to step up and help shape Brentford FC's future on the pitch."

The 41-year-old former Everton midfielder will lead the side for the first time against Birmingham on Tuesday.

West Brom move for £3.5m Gray?

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The Telegraph are reporting that West Brom are considering making a £3.5m move for Birmingham City winger Demarai Gray.

England women to get new coach

The England women's cricket team is looking for a new head coach after the ECB announced that current boss Paul Shaw, who will step down at the end of the year.

The post of head coach will be a newly created one, as Shaw is currently Head of England Women’s Performance.

It follows a disappointing summer for England women, who lost the multi-format Women's Ashes series to Australia.

Dijkhuizen leaves Brentford

PA

Dijkhuizen leaves Brentford

MarinusDijkhuizen was appointed head coach at Brentford in June, a controversial decision given previous boss Mark Warburton was eased out of the door despite guiding the Bees to the play-offs last term.

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Warburton had led the Bees to promotion from League One the previous season but was told in February he would not be retained at the end of the campaign.

A former striker, Dijkhuizen had previously been manager at Excelsior in the Netherlands, where his side finished 15th in the Dutch Eredivisie.

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland midfielder Lee Carsley has been placed in charge until the end of the season.

BreakingScotland's Gilchrist out of World Cup

BreakingDijkhuizen leaves Brentford

BreakingBaldini departs Spurs

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Technical director Franco Baldini has left Tottenham, the club have announced.

In a short statement the club said: "Franco joined us as Technical Director in June 2013 from AS Roma where he was General Director. He leaves us now to spend time outside of club football. We wish him all the best for the future."

London calling

After we pointed out earlier that the city of Manchester is doing pretty nicely in the Premier League...

'Still in discussions' - Button

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Jenson Button has cast further doubt over his Formula One future by refuting Ron Dennis' claim that he will still be a McLaren driver in 2016.

Dennis said after Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix that Button and his team-mate Fernando Alonso would remain with the beleaguered British team next term.

But Button said: "Every week I've spoken to Ron and I'm not going to say if anything is resolved because we're still discussing.

"I want to race in a competitive car. If we have that in Formula One, I want to race. Who knows if it's not?"

Konta will usurp Watson

Russell Fuller

BBC tennis correspondent

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Johanna Konta will replace Heather Watson as the British number one when next week's rankings are released.

Watson was beaten this morning in three sets by Jelena Jankovic in the first round of the Wuhan Open.

Konta will tomorrow play Victoria Azarenka for a place in the third round.

Klopp's demand

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Former Borussia Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp will only consider replacing Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool if he is given full control over future signings at Anfield - meaning an end to the club's transfer committee., reports the Daily Mail.

Liverpool beat Aston Villa 3-2 on Saturday to ease the pressure on Rodgers.

Spieth reigns supreme

Jordan Spieth won't need to take out a loan anytime soon.

The American hit a final-round 69 to win the Tour Championship in Atlanta, earning a cool £7.5m by also securing victory in the FedEx Cup.

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The 22-year-old finished on nine under to claim a cheque for £977,000 to add to his £6.5m bonus for winning the end-of-season play-off championship.

Spieth has earned more than £14m this season and is the new world number one.

He beat New Zealand's Danny Lee, England's Justin Rose and Swede Henrik Stenson by four shots at East Lake.

Hamilton marches on

BBC

Matching Senna

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Over to Japan where Lewis Hamilton says it feels "unreal" to have moved level with his boyhood hero Ayrton Senna on 41 race wins after victory in the Japanese Grand Prix.

"It's quite emotional. I'm full of joy and happiness and light," said the British driver.

"To win here at a race where I loved watching Ayrton drive and to match his wins, it doesn't feel real at the moment."

Hamilton overtook team-mate Nico Rosberg on the opening lap and controlled the race thereafter, to move 48 points clear of the German in the title race.

Doncaster and Reading on the up

The FA

In the women's game, Doncaster Rovers Belles and Reading have been promoted to Super League One after victories on Sunday.

Doncaster came from behind to win 2-1 at London Bees thanks to two goals from Courtney Sweetman-Kirk.

Reading won 3-1 away at Watford in the day's early kick-off before their promotion was sealed when third-placed Yeovil failed to beat Oxford.

Meanwhile, a rampant  Manchester City ensured the title race in the top flight goes to the final day of the season after consigning Bristol Academy to relegation with a 6-1 win. City are up against Chelsea Ladies for the title.

As it stands

Here's a reminder of the Premier League scores from the weekend.

1

Which leaves the table looking pretty good for the city of Manchester.

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Stat attack

Eagles flying

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It's a good time to be a Crystal Palace fan.

Alan Pardew's men are up to sixth in the Premier League as Yohan Cabaye's penalty settled a low-key clash against Watford at Vicarage Road on Sunday.

Wilfried Zaha made the difference as he stepped from the bench and was tripped for the decisive second-half penalty.

Palace hit the post through Dwight Gayle, while Jose Jurado's free-kick came back off the bar for the Hornets, who remain the joint second-lowest scorers in the division.

Good progress

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Wales are happy then and so too Ireland and Scotland, also going along nicely at the World Cup.

Joe Schmidt's Ireland hammered Romania 44-10 win and they can seal a quarter-final spot if they beat Italy at the Olympic Stadium next Sunday.

Scotland, meanwhile, recovered from a 13-6 half-time deficit to securing a bonus-point 39-16 win over USA to top World Cup Pool B.

'There's a lot of frustration'

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It's not been the weekend Stuart Lancaster had planned, England beaten 28-25 by brilliant Wales in that absorbing encounter at Twickenham.

 Lancaster says his players must stay "united" and focus on next weekend's "knockout" World Cup game with Australia after losing to Wales, says boss Stuart Lancaster.

The hosts squandered a 10-point lead against Wales and defeat on Saturday could all but end their hopes of qualifying from Pool A.

"We've got a massive game now to build to," said Lancaster. "There's a lot of frustration in the changing room and that frustration has to be turned into a positive mindset."

Coming up...

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Couple of things to look out for today.

Arsene Wenger is holding a news conference at 12:30 BST ahead of Arsenal's Champions League showdown with Olympiakos on Tuesday.

And West Brom's home clash with Everton is the day's Premier League clash. Kick-off is at 20:00 BST - we'll bring you all the build up.

Pride of Wales

And perhaps the best back page of all (if you're a fan of Wales, or inventive newspaper design)....

Take a bow the Western Daily Mail, taking patriotic to the next level.

Western Mail

Monday's papers

Express

Monday's papers

Daily Star

Monday's papers

The Sun

Monday's papers

The Mirror

Monday's papers

Independent

Monday's papers

Guardian

Morning all

So this happened overnight.

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A supermoon blood red lunar eclipse. Thrilling (if you're into that kind of thing) isn't it?

But not as thrilling as the sporting weekend, with goals galore in the Premier League drama and upsets at the rugby, and more grand prix domination for Lewis Hamilton.

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We'll reflect on all that, plus bring you the best of the day's breaking news.

It's another Sportsday, first the papers.