Rolling news & my favourite badge debate

1. My favourite club badges #bbcsportsday
2. Six Premier League news conferences
3. FA suspends support for Platini

Goodbye

Unfortunately, that is it for another edition of Sportsday. We are back on Monday but make sure you stay across the BBC Sport website at the weekend for the return of the Premier League action, as well as Rugby World Cup quarter-finals and much more.

Until then.

Team of the season... so far

Snooker meets theatre

Actor Jack O'Connell is to play a troubled snooker professional in a new play staged in the sport's spiritual home, Sheffield's Crucible Theatre.

The Crucible hosts snooker's annual world championships as well as being one of the UK's leading theatres.

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The worlds of snooker and theatre will meet with the world premiere of The Nap, written by Richard Bean, who is best known for One Man, Two Guvnors.

O'Connell has made his name in films including Unbroken, '71 and Starred Up.

Read the piece in full here

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'The Trident' say cheese

Barcelona stars Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi and Neymar strike a pose in a new video on their official club magazine, cleverly named, 'Barça Magazine'. 

Watch the behind the scenes video here.

Barça Magazine

Joe Cole signs for Coventry

More on the shock transfer news that sees former England international Joe Cole sign for League One side Coventry City on a 35-day emergency loan deal.

"Joe has a great pedigree, both on the domestic and international stage, and I'm sure he'll have a fantastic impact during his time at the club," said manager Tony Mowbray.

"I've met with Joe and he has watched us play several times this season. He likes the way we play the game and because of that, he has shown a real enthusiasm to come and play for the club. "

Joe Cole signs for Coventry

And the club themselves can't believe it..

Return of the Premiership

The Premiership makes its return tonight and you can follow our live text and radio commentary here from 18:45.

Here are tonight's opening fixtures:

Harlequins v Wasps - 19:45

Worcester v Northampton - 19:45

Newcastle v Gloucester - 20:00

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Toure on trial

Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure has admitted driving at 101mph (163km/h) on a motorway.

Toure was caught speeding in his Porsche on the M6 in Staffordshire on 20 May.

epa

Prosecutors claim he drove at 123mph (198km/h) on the same stretch of the carriageway six minutes later but, in a hearing at Cannock Magistrates' Court, he denied reaching the higher speed.

The 32-year-old will face trial on 3 December at Burton Magistrates' Court.

Leicester's Burns out with broken jaw

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Leicester Tigers fly-halfFreddie Burnswill miss his side's Premiership opener at London Irish on Sunday afterbreaking his jawin a pre-season fixture.

Director of rugby Richard Cockerill expects the England international to be out for between six and eight weeks.

The Downies are coming, Glasgow...

Sisters Becky and Ellie Downie appear to be ready and raring to go for the start of the Gymnastics World Championships in Glasgow which start a week today. 

Best of luck girls!

Coverage: Live on BBC Two, 27-30 October (19:00 BST), BBC One, 31 October (13:30), BBC Two, 1 November (13:30)

Read about the rest of the British Gymnastics team here.

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Simple, yet effective.

Cipriani omission an 'error' - Diamond

Reuters

England got it wrong by not selecting versatile Danny Cipriani for the World Cup, according to his Sale Sharks club boss Steve Diamond.

"Danny plays full-back, centre and 10 and is a goal-kicker. I would have picked him and they made a mistake," he told BBC Radio Manchester.

"It's about knowing when to utilise your bench, that's why I would have picked him." 

Roberts hails value of sport in Belfast

BBC Sport

Former Premier League striker Jason Roberts was in Belfast recently with his foundation, helping deliver projects aimed at tackling social issues around equality, diversity and inclusion by getting young people involved in sport.  

While he was there, BBC Sport's Get Inspired made a short film and in the spirit of getting involved, the Grenada international had a go at hurling.

Mourinho, moans & money

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The Portuguese was fined £50,000 by the Football Association this week for claiming officials are afraid to award Chelsea penalties after referee Robert Madley denied the Blues a spot-kick in a 3-1 loss to Southampton.

Mourinho - who has been fined seven times during his two spells at Stamford Bridge - will appeal the decision, which he has called "a disgrace".

Leeds promotion not on agenda - Rosler

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Leeds United head coach Uwe Rosler has said the club are not targeting promotion this season. 

The Elland Road side are currently 16th in the Championship with 11 points, having finished 15th in 2014-15. 

"We want to improve on last year and the main thing is that we stay calm," he told BBC Radio Leeds. 

"My personal aim is to finish top 10. Is that realistic? Yes. I said from day one promotion is not on my agenda, it is not possible this season."

Leeds have not been in the top flight since 2003-04 when they were relegated under caretaker boss Eddie Gray.

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Fuller joins Latics

Oldhamhavesigned veteran strikerRicardo Fuller on a three-month contract.

The 35-year-old former Jamaica international was released by Millwall in the summer.

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'Chelsea will get Champions League spot'

Roberto Mancini has been speaking about Chelsea in an interview with World Football...

"They had their problems at the start of the season but they will come up in two or three months. I don’t think they have a problem to get a Champions League position. I think he [Jose Mourinho] can get the Champions League position because he has enough experience for this."

The Italian doesn't think they they will win the title, though...

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You can listen to the full interview here

You okay, love?

Fonte extends contract to summer 2018

Told you!

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Always funny....

Brook fight off

The man himself has spoken (or typed, or touched his keypad...)

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Mysterious...

Does anyone else think that looks like Jose Fonte? That's Sportsday's guess anyway...

Brook fight off

More on the news that IBF welterweight champion Kell Brook has pulled out of his fight against Diego Chavez.

“It's always a bitter blow when an injury causes a fight to be postponed, especially so close to the event,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. 

“Kell picked up a rib injury in sparring yesterday and spent most of the day at hospital yesterday. Kell was desperate to fight but it was simply impossible and we will now look to reschedule the bout for the end of the year.”

Controversial comments from Bernie Ecclestone...

Very out of character.....

League of Legends

Fancy watching teams fighting each other on a computer console, in front of thousands of people at Wembley?

We've got just the ticket for you with the League of Legends tournament which is live on the BBC Sport website from 17:00 BST.

You can read more about eSports and the game here

BreakingBrook fight off

Kell Brook has pulled out of his IBF welterweight title clash against Diego Chaves on 24 October after suffering a rib injury in sparring.

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How to beat the Boks

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Scrum V pundit and Bristol head coach Sean Holley highlights how Wales can beat South Africa in their World Cup quarter-final.

Former Ospreys boss Holley says Wales can draw inspiration from their 12-6 win over the Springboks last November. That was only the second time they have beaten South Africa.

Watch the clip here

More on Magnussen...

Andrew Benson

Chief F1 writer

Getty Images

McLaren boss Ron Dennis has explained the reasons for Kevin Magnussen’s departure from the team.

The 23-year-old was the team’s reserve driver but his contract expires at the end of 2015 and McLaren have decided against renewing it.

“Kevin is extremely keen to return to racing next year, and, in keeping with our tradition with our young drivers, we will not stand in the way of his ability to fulfill his ambition and potential,” said Dennis. 

"Evidently, we have no space for him at McLaren-Honda as a race driver next year."

Captain Cook leads the way

AP

A superb double century from captain Alastair Cook saw England to 569-8, a lead of 46 runs, at the end of day four of the first Test against Pakistan.

Cook batted for 836 minutes in Abu Dhabi for his 263 - the third-longest innings by time in Test history, and the longest ever by an Englishman.

With just two wickets remaining and England's first-innings lead slim, a draw remains the most likely result.

Read the full report here

Allegations over 2006 World Cup

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

Strap yourselves in, here we go again...

Pocock & Folau out for Australia

Sara Orchard

BBC Sport

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Australia will be without David Pocock and Israel Folau for their World Cup quarter-final meeting with Scotland after their failed to overcome injuries sustained in the last weekend's nine-point win over Wales.

Pocock will be replaced by Ben McCalman at number eight, while Kurtley Beale will take Folau’s place at full-back.

Stephen Moore and Matt Giteau will both make their 100th Test appearance, with the former captaining the side.

Swansea news conference

Players such as Wales skipper Ashley Williams and Iceland midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson have had an excellent time with their national sides, qualifying for the Euro 2016 tournament.

“It’s important that the players put that to bed now and concentrate on their football here until the summer and Euro 2016,” he said. “I have spoken to them and they are fully aware of that."

Swansea news conference

Four games without a win, so Swansea boss Garry Monk knows it's a crucial game for his side.

“It’s a key period for us now,” he said. “Every game is important but we want to get better. All the players have come back from the break fit and in good shape, and it will be great to have this period together ahead of Monday.

“Stoke had an initial slow start to the season but they have picked up in recent weeks. They signed a lot of quality players in the summer and they have a strong squad.”

Swansea news conference

Swansea ?-? Stoke

No wins in the last four for Swansea, can they get back to winning ways? Stoke are on a three game unbeaten run, will they keep it going? You can predict the results of this weekend's matches. 

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Swansea news conference

Rob Phillips

BBC Wales Football Correspondent

After a memorable international break for Welsh football, we're now ready to hear the latest from Premier League flag bearers, Swansea City.

Plenty for Garry Monk to be proud of, with Swans' pair Ashley Williams and Gylfi Sigurdsson in the UEFA All Star XI from the qualifiers.

We'll hear from the Swansea manager shortly...

'Needs must for Allardyce'

Nick Barnes

BBC Newcastle's Sunderland commentator

Sam Allardyce has had a week to assimilate the size of his task at Sunderland but he’s been handicapped by having only two days to work with his full squad because of international commitments. 

On top of that he has two players suspended – Jeremain Lens and Sebastian Coates – for the match at West Brom. 

BBC Sport

It’s a case of needs must for Allardyce who has to, as he says ‘get hold of this team’, and stop the rot. Expect a much more defensively minded line up for his first match in charge as Sunderland look for their first win of the season and West Brom their first home win. 

The Black Cats' recent record at the Hawthorns is poor - five defeats and one draw in, which they have conceded 15 and scored only three. 

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Earlier we produced this beauty of a crest for the Sportsday Live Football Team...

BBC

Yeah well, we could have done this too but we have lots of important investigative journalism to be getting on with...

Murray breezes through to semi-final

Andy Murray has beaten Tomas Berdych 6-1, 6-3 to reach the semi-final of the Shanghai Masters.

*Easy. Easy*

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Murray broke Berdych in the third game of the match and saved two break points in the next before racing through the first set in 38 minutes.

The onslaught continued in the second set, Murray making it nine successive games to get to 3-0 before progressing to a semi-final against Novak Djokovic.

Read more here.

Starter for eight

A Question of Sport Teaser

Earlier on we asked which eight teams - apart from the Home Nations - have appeared in the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup. 

The answer? Argentina, Australia, Canada, Fiji, France, New Zealand, South Africa and Western Samoa.

England internationals make club return

Ed Marriage

BBC Radio 5 live

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A week after their World Cup came to an end, England internationals George Ford (pictured) and Anthony Watson have been included in the starting XV for Bath in their opening Premiership match against Exeter on Saturday.

Sam Burgess has been named among the replacements, along with Rob Webber. Henry Slade is on the bench for Exeter.

Saracens have included two England players in the starting XV for their match against Sale on Sunday. Alex Goode and Jamie George start for the reigning champions, while Mako Vunipola and George Kruis are on the bench.

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Oooo we like this... Very moody.

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We love the texture of the crest, Dara. It really looks like the bird is moving...

#PretendingToKnowAboutArt

Blatter & Platini had £1.3m 'agreement'

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

Sepp Blatter has given interview to Swiss TV and described a £1.3m payment to Uefa president Michel Platini as "a gentleman's agreement".  

The Fifa president said: "Everyone is against Sepp Blatter and it is not fair and not sporting."  

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Keep sending us your favourite badges and new designs of club crests using #bbcsportsday.

Don't forget, it doesn't have to be a football club. We welcome all sports here.

Smart on his feet

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He can certainly talk the talk but it appears Jurgen Klopp can also walk the walk….

Did you know the new Liverpool boss completed a thesis on walking at Goethe University of Frankfurt?

Hear more from his old professor in this BBC Sports world interview.

Cook out

Alastair Cook is finally out, Pakistan removing the England batsman for 263 before rushing to shake his hand. Well played, sir.

Follow the action live here

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Please say one of you can do better than one of the Sportsday finest. 

No, we will not say whether this is by Shamoon or Libby... 

Essentially one of us has been messing about on Paint while the other is working very hard.

BBC Sport

'We believe we can upset them'

Phil Goodlad

BBC Scotland

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Scotland head coach Vern Cotter says he's picked a team "to have a real go" in the World Cup quarter-final against Australia.

Cotter, as expected, has named Fraser Brown and Tim Swinson as replacements for banned duo Ross Ford and Jonny Gray. And Peter Horne comes into the centre for the injured Matt Scott.

But, despite missing three key players, Cotter says is confident his players can cause an upset at Twickenham.

"These guys are competitors. The focus is to win. That's the mentality we're taking. We've got things that we can throw at them and upset them. We're going to have a real go at them."

And now, an appeal...

Calum McKenzie

BBC Local Live

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Nottingham Rugby have begun the search for two new signings...a vacuum cleaner and tumble dryer...

The club have appealed to supporters for donations of either appliance to use at their Lady Bay training ground. 

'What you looking at?'

The Sports Minister was ticked by this surprise appearance by BBC Sport's Richard Conway...

Murray takes first set in style

Andy Murray is making short work of world number five Tomas Berdych in China, the Scot taking the first set 6-1 in 39 minutes.  

Scots' appeal to be heard on Saturday

Sara Orchard

BBC Sport

It has been confirmed that appeals were lodged by the Scottish Rugby Union against the suspensions of Ross Ford and Jonny Gray at 11:55 BST on Friday.

Both forwards have been banned for three-weeks after being found guilty of making dangerous tackles against Samoa. Neither has been included in the XV to face Australia in the World Cup quarter-finals on Sunday.

The appeal will be heard at 10:00 BST on Saturday in London by a committee chaired by Justice Lex Mpati (South Africa) and also comprising Justice Graeme Mew (Canada) and Robbie Deans (New Zealand).

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We would love to see more of your designs of club badges... 

Does your club need bringing into the 21st century with a new one?

We want you to use your vivid imaginations and send us your new designs.

Can't wait to see what you lot come up with...

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Manchester City news conference

Liam Bradford

BBC Radio Manchester

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As expected, Manuel Pellegrini confirmed the absence of striker Sergio Aguero for the next month due to a "muscle injury," but he also announced the Blues are without Gael Clichy, David Silva, Fabian Delph and Aleksander Kolarov. Silva picked up "a kick to the ankle" on international duty in midweek.

Pellegrini was also less than pleased with Belgium manager Marc Wilmots, who elected to play central defender Vincent Kompany for the national side despite City sending a medical report asking them not to. 

The City manager did concede that Wilmots had every right to use Kompany but suggested that rule change might be required.

Bowled him

Ben Stokes has fallen for 57 in the final session of the day, as England move on to 534-6 against Pakistan. Now leading my 11 runs. Captain Alastair Cook is still at the crease on 258 not out, having batted longer than any England batsman in history,

Follow the live page here

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The Tony Soprano of the cricketing badger world?

Something better lined up for Magnussen?

There is still an empty seat at new team, Haas... Or are we reading into things?

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Manchester United news conference

Bill Rice

BBC Radio Manchester

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal was in a relatively good mood ahead of their trip to Everton, but admitted it’s been “an awful two weeks” after their comprehensive 3-0 loss at Arsenal. 

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The Dutchman explained in detail their preparations for the Arsenal game, taking almost four minutes to outline how the players were required to train the day before the game after a day off on Friday. 

He also cited details such as flying instead of taking the train to London, but stressed it was their lack of possession in the opening 20 minutes that ultimately cost them. 

Van Gaal was sharing the blame though, stressing all the players and staff – including his chef, Mike, and the atmosphere in the club canteen – can have an impact on the squad before a game, and everyone has to continue to improve, if they are to be champions.

Lawro v Khan... (not the fairest of fights, eh Lawro?)

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BBC Sport's football expert Mark Lawrenson is pitting his wits against a different guest each week this season.

Lawro's opponent for this weekend's Premier League fixtures is boxer Amir Khan.

Challenge them both using our Premier League Predictor game.

Racking up the runs

England captain Alastair Cook is now 250 not out against Pakistan. His side are 517-5 and trail by just six runs to the mammoth opening total.

Follow the live page here

'Working night and day for a resolution'

After missing a deadline to pay back a £10.25m loan to the council, Northampton Town chairman David Cardoza has said that he is working night and day to secure a resolution to all of the issues that the club are facing at the moment.

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"There are plenty of headlines surrounding the club at the moment, that's understandable but all efforts are being dedicated to resolve this situation as soon as possible," he told the club's website.

"The next step is that there are meetings planned early next week involving the interested parties and we are hoping for significant progress there."

Friday Sports Panel

Women’s Rugby World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi, Commonwealth Games weightlifting champion Zoe Smith and former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan are all currently talking sport on BBC Radio 5 live.

You can listen live here

Manchester City news conference

Manager Manuel Pellegrini is wary of the task in front of the league leaders. "Bournemouth have worked the last 15 days with their whole squad. We must play with 100% intensity to get the three points."

With Sergio Aguero injured, the Chilean backed another of his strikers. “I always trust Wilfried Bony – he’s a very good player. He’s had very bad luck here. He arrived here in January, he went to the African Cup and then he had problems with his knee."

Manchester City news conference

Manager Manuel Pellegrini says midfielders Yaya Toure and Fernandinho are both available to play on Saturday, but is "unhappy" that captain Vincent Kompany played for Belgium in midweek.

Experienced XV for Argentina

Argentina have reverted to their strongest side for their World Cup quarter-final against Ireland after making changes for their final pool game against Namibia.

Their XV at the Millennium Stadium can boast 496 caps and an average age of 27 years and 93 days.

Argentina XV: Tuculet, Cordero, Moroni, Hernandez, Imhoff, Sanchez, Landajo; Ayerza, Creevy, Herrera, Petti, Lavanini, Matera, Lobbe, Senatore

BreakingSexton in for Ireland

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt has named his team for Sunday's quarter-final and the big news is that fly-half Jonny Sexton is fit to play despite going off in the group showdown with France last weekend.

Ireland XV: R Kearney, Bowe, Earls, Henshaw, D Kearney, Sexton, Murray; Healy, Best, Ross, Toner, Henderson, Murphy, Henry, Heaslip

Manchester United news conference

Manager Louis van Gaal is asked about the frame of mind of players such as Daley Blind and Memphis Depay who went out of Euro 2016 qualifying with the Netherlands.

"I am confident. I have seen the training session and the reaction of my players.

"I have a philosophy and the main aspect of that is the total human being principle."

Manchester United news conference

Louis van Gaal was, obviously, not happy with the defeat against Arsenal last time out.

"We cannot accept it. Not only my members of staff, but the also the players cannot accept it from each other. 

"We want to be the champions, so we have to behave like the champions. You have to improve everytime. It is no just the members of staff, it is also my cook Mike. He has a big influence in the canteen. A lot of people are important."

Man City ?-? Bournemouth

Can Manchester City extend their lead at the top? Will Bournemouth be able to shock the leaders? You can predict the results of this weekend's matches. 

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Chelsea news conference

It's all over at Chelsea. A final nugget from Mourinho. 

When asked if the players are fearing the worst (relegation), he was quick to respond, "I don't believe in the 'fear factor' at this level."

Do we believe him...?

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On that note, Football Focus' Dan Walker went to speak to him this week and he seemed to suggest the FA have more punishment's coming his way... 

With a hint of sarcasm, he said he must be quiet from now in the media or risk being given a stadium ban and then "an electronic tag".

Watch a preview of that interview here and watch the whole thing on Football Focus, Saturday at 12:10 BST on BBC One. 

Manchester City news conference

Liam Bradford

BBC Radio Manchester

There will be plenty of media gathered at Etihad Stadium to hear from the Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini, with the latest injury status of key players likely to be on the agenda ahead of this weekend's game with Bournemouth.

BBC Sport

Yaya Toure and Samir Nasri could both be back on Saturday, but Sergio Aguero isn't expected back until next month and David Silva and several others expected to be sidelined for the fortnight.

City have also started a consultation over a new badge and, looking at the branding around the stadium, that could be an expensive undertaking to replace the current crests. That said, considering the club announced a profit of more than £10m this week, it looks like pocket change in the grand scheme of things. 

Manchester United news conference

Some news dribbling out of Manchester United ahead of the news conference starting.

Boss Louis van Gaal says captain Wayne Rooney and midfielder Michael Carrick are fit to face Everton on Saturday.

Chelsea news conference

Mourinho says Aston Villa are "a good team with good players". When asked is other teams fear Chelsea as much as they used to, he answered: "Maybe".

Chelsea news conference

Mourinho on his latest FA fine, which he says he will appeal against: "Maybe I am naive but English football fans, English passion for the game, is what makes me like this country so much. It's not the FA. If one day I have to work for those people, I will..." 

Work for them? As England manager, Jose?

Mourinho said his £50,000 FA fine for claiming officials were "afraid" to award his team penalties was a "disgrace". 

Chelsea news conference

Now we get to the meat of the matter... 

Mourinho on Chelsea's poor start. Is this a must-win?

"Every game is a must win game and when we don't win it's always a frustration. But we cannot run away from the reality of the situation. 

"We need to win matches for us, for the Chelsea supporters. I don't know how to stop unfair stories but we are not worried. We are not going to be relegated - in a couple of months we will be in a position we want to be in."

Chelsea news conference

Mourinho on young midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek: "Ruben has been working with us every day since January and has evolved physically, tactically, mentally. We can start him. He is ready."

Chelsea news conference

Jose Mourinho has arrived and is afforded the traditional easy opener. Any injury news?

Only Branislav Ivanovic and Thibaut Cortois are out, he confirms. "There are four solutions - Cesar Azpilicueta, Kurt Zouma, Ramiries or an 18-year-old, Ola Aina," he says about the right-back vacancy. "It depends on the matches and the opponents."

Time for tea

England are 468-5 at tea in Abu Dhabi. Captain Alastair Cook is 237 not out, as they trail by just 55 runs against Pakistan.

Follow the live page here

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Don't get it...

Chelsea ?-? Aston Villa

Can Chelsea get back to winning ways? Will Aston Villa be able to climb out of the relegation zone? You can predict the results of this weekend's matches. 

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BBC Sport

Chelsea news conference

John Southall

BBC Radio Five Live football reporter

BBC Sport

Plenty of issues at Cobham as ever - the FA, the right back, the league position, the pressure on the manager, the players lack of form....

Which Jose Mourinho will we get today?

England U-17 World Cup starts on Saturday

Can they make us all excited for the future of England at international tournaments...? 

Or will they lose on penalties to Germany in the quarter finals?

Only time will tell.

Manchester United news conference

Bill Rice

BBC Radio Manchester

BBC Sport

Jimmy Murphy Centre at Manchester United's training ground named after the club's former coach, where Louis van Gaal will speak to the media today.

BBC Sport

Everton ?-? Man Utd

Can Everton continue their excellent run against Manchester United at Goodison Park? Will Louis van Gaal's side be able to get back to winning ways?

You can predict the results of this weekend's matches.

Click here to play

BBC Sport

Manchester United news conference

Bill Rice

BBC Radio Manchester

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal won’t have enjoyed the international break after his side’s demoralising 3-0 defeat at Arsenal in their last Premier League fixture, but he should be reasonably happy with the club’s results so far this season.  

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Wayne Rooney and Michael Carrick missed England’s final Euro 2016 qualifiers but should be fit to return for Saturday’s game at Everton, where the Reds have lost on their last three visits and managed only one win in the last seven seasons.

World Cup winner Bastian Schweinsteiger is a doubt though, while van Gaal will hopefully give an update on Northern Ireland defender Paddy McNair’s condition today, after he suffered a ruptured liver against Finland.

On this day

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In2011, English driver Dan Wheldon, 33, was killed in a crash at the Las Vegas Indy 300.

In2012, England's World Cup qualifier against Poland was postponed by a day due to a waterlogged pitch in Warsaw.

In2014, former France, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham defender William Gallas retired at the age of 37.

Gamble for Scots?

Bryn Palmer

BBC Sport

Interesting that Scotland have opted for two open-side flankers in back row with Blair Cowan at six joining John Hardie for the World Cup quarter-final.

FA suspend support for Platini

Dan Roan

BBC Sports editor

Privately the FA was known to be growing impatient with Michel Platini, and - like other national associations around Europe - were seeking assurances and answers from him after a letter he wrote to them in September failed to explain the timing of the £1.35m payment he received.

Read the blog from earlier this month in full here 

England in trouble?

Jonny Bairstow goes for eight, being trapped LBW by Pakistan bowler Wahab Riaz. England now 443-5, trailing by 80 runs.

Follow the live page here

BreakingScotland name team for quarter-final

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BreakingFA suspend support for Platini

Following Uefa president Michel Platini's 90-day suspension from Fifa and the subsequent investigation into corruption, the FA have announced that they are suspending its support for the Frenchman's candidature for the Fifa presidency until the legal process has been concluded.

This badge broke a 16th century law...

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On the subject of club badges, here is an earlier story from March this year...

Scottish League One side Airdrieonians are being forced to change their badge – because it breaks a law dating back to the 16th Century.

The Diamonds were stunned to receive a letter telling them that their crest has been deemed too similar to the coat of arms of the office of Lord Lyon King. 

They have been warned they face prosecution if they continue to operate with the badge which is illegal as it contains letters within the 'shield'.

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Are those brimmed hard hats.....?

Why does he look so worried?

Gibbons proud of tumour recovery

The FA

Liverpool Ladies goalkeeper Danielle Gibbons says she is proud of the comeback she has made after having abenign brain tumour removed. 

The 23-year-old missed five months of the season following surgery, which left her deaf in one ear, but returned to play three games, wearing a protective helmet.

"There wasn't one point when I thought I wouldn't get back. If I couldn't have played for Liverpool again, then I was determined to play in the Olympics for the deaf team or something like that," she told BBC Sport.

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Do the fans all dress up in elf costumes? 

Is the mascot a reindeer with a very shiny nose?

Half-time snack of choice: cookies and sherry or full on Christmas dinner?

Appeal duo likely to be left out by Scots

Phil Goodlad

BBC Scotland

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Scotland will name their team at 12:00 BST and it seems that neither Ross Ford nor Jonny Gray will be included, despite an outcome on the appeal over their suspensions likely to be heard before the quarter-final with Australia.

Many in the Scotland camp feeling Ford and Gray have been hard done by but, unlike in football, players cannot play pending an appeal so avoiding further disruption by naming Fraser Brown at hooker and Tim Swinson in the second row seems a safer bet.  

As for the appeal itself, a simple two-to-one majority from the three-man panel will determine whether to quash, shorten or increase the players' three-week bans.

Starter for eight...

A Question of Sport Teaser

(There are no bonus questions...)

Outside the Home Nations, which eight teams have made the Quarter Finals in Rugby World Cup history? 

If you get all eight without Google, (not that we can prove that), R.E.S.P.E.C.T...Let us know...

Seven - impressive, six - a great effort, five - an effort, four - not bad, three - pretty bad, two - not impressed, one - errm try harder, none - you probably don't like Rugby that much...

#bbcsportsday

Come back for the answer later on today.

Magic Weekend returns to Newcastle

The 2016 Super League Magic Weekend will return to Newcastle United's St James' Park on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 May.

SW Pix

Magic Weekend was first held in Newcastle earlier this year and more than 67,000 fans were in attendance across the course of the weekend – the highest ever for the two-day event.

The pick of the fixtures for the two days sees a repeat of the 2015 Grand Final as Leeds Rhinos take on Wigan Warriors.

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Outstanding. 

A wicket in the cricket

Believe it or not, but an England man has gone. It's Joe Root, who has fallen for 85 with a swipe outside off-stump which is caught by Pakistan wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed.

England now 426-4, trailing by 97.

Follow the live page here

US interest in Everton

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

Everton are the subject of renewed speculation over a potential takeover.

City of London financial sources have told BBC Sport that American investors - with links to MLS side Sporting Kansas City - are exploring a potential purchase. 

An asking price of £225m is believed to have been set by Everton's owners although it is unknown if the US consortium are prepared to match that.

Getty Images

The possible deal has also been reported in Kansas City – and SKC representative Mike Illig has publicly stated he is an Everton fan, posting pictures of a visit to Goodison Park on his Twitter account on Thursday.

Everton did not comment when contacted about suggestions that a takeover deal is under discussion.

Aston Villa news conference

But earlier you said three weeks, Tim??

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'Vintage Sherwood'

Mark Regan

BBC WM Sport

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Tim Sherwood was in no mood for negativity on Friday, saying he is "100% certain we'll be in the Premier League next season".  

Despite speculation that has cast doubt over his future at Villa Park, Sherwood was on the front foot.In answer to some other reports, he asserted that, "there's not a player that we have brought into the club that I haven't liked or wanted".

After being booed off after losing to Stoke last time out Sherwood was equally confident that he'll win them around. "They were singing my name three weeks ago - they'll be singing my name in another three weeks."

Vintage Sherwood.

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Nick Barnes

BBC Newcastle's Sunderland commentator

I began to ‘free-draw’ the club crests this season and so it’s been a bit hit and miss. The Exeter City crest is my favourite as City are my home town club so I wanted to try and get it right. I’d never live it down with my mates at home if I’d messed it up!  

Nick Barnes

I’m working on my West Bromwich Albion notes now and am pleased with the West Brom crest. Some are more challenging than others. Manchester United a case in point. 

But I think it’s much better to have something I’ve drawn rather than just taking an image off the internet and pasting it into my notebook as I’ve done in the past – although it is time consuming. Satisfying though when it comes out ok.

Keep your suggestions and artistic designs coming in... 

Follow Nick Barnes' example and whip out the felt tip pens if you must...

#bbcsportsday 

No further FA punishment for Mourinho

David Ornstein

BBC Sport

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho will not face further punishment from the Football Association, despite describing the £50,000 fine it order him to pay as a “disgrace”.

Mourinho was handed the fine and a suspended one-match stadium ban on Wednesday after claiming officials were “afraid” to award his team penalties. This followed referee Robert Madley denying the Blues a spot-kick in a 3-1 loss to Southampton.

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Mourinho said on Thursday: "I'm happy I don't have an electronic tag. £50,000 is a disgrace. The possibility of getting a stadium ban is astonishing."

But it is understood the FA have no intention of acting upon these comments.

The governing body is less concerned about criticism of itself than criticism aimed at individuals and match officials, given this could call into question their integrity.

Get Involved

Can you top the effort Stuart has gone to?

Keep these coming... #bbcsportsday

Latest from Abu Dhabi

Still no problems for England against Pakistan, going along nicely. They are 413-3, now trailing by just 110 runs.

Follow the live page here

Aston Villa news conference

Villa are firmly in a battle against relegation. Manager Tim Sherwood keeps reiterating the point of staying in the top flight.

"The players know the last few weeks haven't been good enough. There are a lot of points to be played for, enough to stay in the division.

"I've got to believe in the players that I've got, which I do. We need to improve and it needs to click and it will. I believe we'll be in the Premier League next season."

Aston Villa news conference

"There's only one Tim Sherwood..."

Watson out of Hong Kong Open

Getty Images

Heather Watson has been knocked out of the Hong Kong Open in the quarter-finals by fifth seed Samantha Stosur.

British number two Watson, 23, took the first set and was a break up in the second but failed to take advantage as Stosur rallied to win 4-6 6-3 6-0.

Australian Stosur will face France's Caroline Garcia or German second seed Angelique Kerber in the last four.

More to follow on this story here.

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Interesting, how, Ryan?

Aston Villa news conference

Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood admits hit side are in a tricky spell.

"I take a lot of heart from managers who have been through difficult periods. This is my first tough period in management," he said.

"We'll soldier on and get through it. I have 100% belief that we'll stay in the Premier League."  

Aston Villa news conference

Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood has been fronting up to the media after rumours emerged that he could lose his job should Villa lose to Chelsea on Saturday.

The Englishman is in defiant mood: "Once I get through this period everyone will benefit. Aston Villa will and Tim Sherwood will," he said.

"I'm a football manager and am responsible for results. That's what I'm paid for. I'll stand up to this."

Smith agrees new Saddlers deal

Walsall manager Dean Smith has signed a new 12-month rolling contract with the League One leaders.

The 44-year-old has been in charge since January 2011, making him the fourth longest-serving manager in English football's top five divisions.

  "I feel like I'm getting better as a manager and I just want to keep developing," he said.  

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Happy birthday

Getty Images

The first qualifier to win the World Snooker Championship, Terry Griffiths (1947), celebrates his birthday today, as does former South Africa cricket all-rounder Jacques Kallis (1975).

Fly-half Frederic Michalak (1982) will be hoping to celebrate tomorrow when his France side take on New Zealand in the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

Villa tracking Real Madrid player?

Some gossip as we wait for boss Tim Sherwood to address the press.

Aston Villa are on the trail of Real Madrid striker Jese Rodriguez, according to the Birmingham Mail.

Getty Images

The 22-year-old came through the ranks with the Bernabeu club and has scored 12 goals in 59 appearances.

Villa are said to have made an enquiry for him in the summer and could could go back in for him after his lack of playing time for Real Madrid so far this season.

Get Involved

As well as your personal favourites, we would like to see your own designs.

No need to go mad on Photoshop (other design programmes are available), a scrap bit of paper and your kids' crayons will do.

Send them in using #bbcsportsday and we will publish the best.

'No better alternative to Strachan'

Chris McLaughlin

BBC Sport Scotland

Getty Images

As Scotland fans continue to look for pain relief following the hurt of missing out on another major competition, the Scottish FA could provide a tonic of sorts later on Friday with the expected news that Gordon Strachan will stay on as manager for another qualifying campaign. 

To suggest that Strachan has the complete support of the Tartan Army would be wrong but the majority seem to accept there is simply no better alternative. He himself wanted time to think. It's understood he'll now sign on the dotted line and hope it's 10th time lucky. 

Chelsea ?-? Aston Villa

Can Chelsea get back to winning ways? Will Aston Villa be able to climb out of the relegation zone? You can predict the results of this weekend's matches.

Click here to play

BBC Sport

Aston Villa news conference

Watson in action

Britain's Heather Watson is currently in action in the quarter-final of the Hong Kong Open against Australia's Sam Stosur. She won the first set 6-4, before losing the second set 3-6 and is now 0-2 down in the third. Can she turn the match around?

This week's Premier League fixtures

BBC

Lunch break

An extended lunch break at the cricket today because of Friday prayers and England are in a comfortable position. They are 400-3 on the fourth day against Pakistan, with captain Alastair Cook 204 not out.

Follow the live page here

Get involved

That Manchester City story got us thinking about badges... 

What are the best and worse club badges, in football or any other sport? And, if you're feeling creative, send us your badge designs.

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

Ferguson the 'outstanding candidate'

Andy Giddings

Sports Editor, BBC Sheffield

Doncaster Rovers chairman David Blunt is speaking at the presentation of news manager Darren Ferguson. He says the club had over 70 applications for the job but that Ferguson was the "outstanding candidate."  

Blunt says the immediate ambition is to reach the play offs this season.  

Forest duo out for six weeks

Nottingham Forest's injury worries have worsened with Michael Mancienne and Kyle Ebecilio ruled out for six weeks.

Versatile defender Mancienne has a knee problem and midfielder Ebecilio has a hamstring injury.

Empics

Forest boss Dougie Freedman, who is already without several first-team players, told BBC Radio Nottingham: "We have an unbelievable injury record."

Forest face Bristol City in the Championship later today. Follow live text commentary on the BBC Sport website from 19:30 BST.

Villa should stick with "cocky" Sherwood - Chris Sutton

Getty Images

Match of the Day pundit Chris Sutton, has his say over Tim Sherwood's future at Aston Villa.

"There is a lot of talk that Tim Sherwood is close to being sacked by Aston Villa but I cannot understand why they would even contemplate getting rid of him at this stage of the season".  

Read more here...

Getty Images

Double hundred for Cook

The wicket is flatter than a a flat pancake but England captain Alastair Cook won't mind. He's just brought up his double hundred.

England now 393-3 and now trail by just 130 runs against Pakistan.

Follow the live page here

West Brom news conference

Richard Wilford

Presenter, BBC WM

BBC

The first news conference of the day is under way.

West Brom boss Tony Pulis says defender Jonny Evans, midfielder James Morrison and striker Saido Berahino are 50/50 for tomorrow's game with Sunderland with knocks. Also waiting to gauge Salomon Rondon's freshness as he only returned from South America late on Thursday.    

Manchester City fans get their say...

Manchester City are to settle an argument that has been raging for decades...

Apparently, they will ask for their fans' opinion on the club's badge. 

The current badge was adopted in 1997 because the previous one was ineligible for registration as a trademark.  

Read more below.

5 live in short

Our lovely colleagues at BBC Radio 5 live have a smorgasbord... a plethora if you will, of sporting podcasts, downloads and clips for your entertainment... 

Here are a few for you to peruse... 

Rugby Union - Matt Dawson has called O'Brien's ban "harsh"

Matt Dawson, Bob Skinstad and Shane Horgan disagree with the punishment handed down to the Irish flanker.

Cricket - Kevin Pietersen has revealed one of his "biggest regrets" during an interview with 5 live's Eleanor Oldroyd

Pietersen explains his occasional psychological turmoil at the crease and why he often seemed to throw his wicket away.

Football - There is also more on the story Arsene Wenger is said ‘to leave Arsenal by 2017’

The Mirror’s John Cross, who was present at the Arsenal AGM at which Wenger spoke, believes the Gunners manager will walk away when his contract expires in 2017.

Enjoy.

BreakingFerguson given Doncaster chance

Andy Giddings

Sports Editor, BBC Sheffield

Doncaster Rovers have confirmed former Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson as their new manager. He will be assisted by Gavin Strachan, the son of Scotland manager Gordon.

England's Taylor to make history down under

England's Sarah Taylor is to make history by becoming the first woman to play Australian first-grade cricket.

Taylor, 26, will make her debut for Northern Districts in the West End Premier Cricket Competition on Saturday against Port Adelaide Magpies. The two-day event is the highest level of cricket played in South Australia outside first-class cricket.

Reuters

"I had no idea I'd be the first woman but I'm sure I won't be the last," the wicketkeeper-batter said. "It's a completely unexpected opportunity."

Read more on Taylor here.

There is also live cricket now on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra as England take on Pakistan in Abu Dhabi. 

Keepers test family loyalties

Spare a thought for the family of goalkeepers Jak and Ben Alnwick, who will be on opposing sides for the first time on Saturday when Port Vale play Peterborough in League One.

 "My dad goes to the game closest to Newcastle, so for us to be on the same pitch he'll be delighted," 22-year-old Jak told BBC Radio Stoke.

 "My mum won't be coming as she gets too nervous. She'll have a heart attack with both of us on the same pitch."

Rex Features

Bournemouth's Murray speaks out

After the news of Liverpool's Danny Ings suffering a cruciate ligament injury, Bournemouth FC striker Glenn Murray has tweeted blaming poor surfaces... and he has support from former Crystal Palace defender Peter Ramage.

Double gold for Great Britain

Away from football for a second to bring you some great news from the British cycling world...

EPA

Great Britain's men and women won gold in their team pursuit finals at the European Track Championships.

Laura Trott, Joanna Rowsell Shand, Katie Archibald and Elinor Barker rode to an emphatic victory over Russia in a time of four minutes 17.010 seconds.

GB's male quartet of Sir Bradley Wiggins, Owain Doull, Andy Tennant and Jon Dibben sealed a memorable double by beating hosts Switzerland.

Read more here.

In case you missed it...

Joey Barton

Yesterday, BBC Sport released the results of it's annual Price of Football survey. 

As a result of the findings, former Manchester City and Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton has suggested clubs should subsidise the cost of tickets for local fans.

The Burnley player, 33, said it is a "disgrace" there are any empty seats at Premier League grounds.

The cheapest match-day ticket in the top flight now costs more than £30 on average for the first time.

...and September's Player of the Month

September's Manager of the Month

Whoops...

Ever felt like you have forgotten an appointment or need to be somewhere but can't pin it down?

Well Guisborough Town v Jarrow Roofing Ebac Northern League match was delayed 30 minutes after the referee forgot to turn up...

Read more on this bizarre story here.

Referee

Wenger to retire?

Arsene Wenger

The Daily Mirror suggest Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, 65, has suggested he will step down as manager in 2017 - 21 years after taking over. 

Latest Gossip

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According to The Sun, (subscription required), Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood's future at the club is in doubt after he angered club owner Randy Lerner by criticising Villa's transfer business in the summer.  

Friday's back pages

There appears to be a theme with today's back pages... 

The Independent also going with Mourinho and Cook. 

Who is looking forward to the Premier League being back this weekend?

The Independent

Friday's back pages

'The i' have also lead with Cook's achievement but have highlighted the disappointing news to come out of Liverpool. 

Danny Ings has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a serious knee injury.

Ings, 23, suffered a cruciate ligament injury in his first training session with new manager Jurgen Klopp, after making his England debut in Monday's Euro 2016 qualifier against Lithuania.

Follow the live text and radio commentary on England against Pakistan here.

The i

Friday's back pages

The Telegraph have dubbed Alastair Cook, "England's greatest" after he hit 168 not out in the first test against Pakistan. 

Strong image.

The Daily Telegraph

Friday's back pages

The Metro lead with Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho after he "rages" against the FA. It emerged yesterday they are issuing him with a £50,000 fine for criticising refereeing decisions. It's so unlike him...

Mourinho had claimed Premier League officials were afraid to award his team penalties after Robert Madley denied the Blues a spot-kick in a 3-1 loss to Southampton.

The Metro

Good morning...

If Friday is not enough to get a smile on your face, how about these outstanding images from page one of The Guardian, of the ever over-competitive Mayor of London, Boris Johnson flattening a 10-year-old Japanese boy in a friendly game of rugby....? 

No?

Ok, then. Let's get on with today's back pages...

The Guardian