Sportsday - rolling football news

1. Capital One Cup Rd 4 & Scottish League Cup last eight build-up
2. Liverpool's Anfield stadium evacuated
3. Villa's Richards charged with improper conduct
4. Scotland women beat Macedonia 4-1
5. Testimonial debate #bbcsportsday

Good evening

Right then, that's pretty much it for another Sportsday. 

But never fear - you can join our football colleagues right now, over here, for build-up and live text commentary on tonight's League Cup fixtures. 

Until tomorrow, we'll be seeing you!

When the man who loves to win, loses

Here's an interesting take on Jose Mourinho's recent struggles at Chelsea - loosely alluding to the man's hunger for success, and tendency towards self-destruction when things don't go his own way...

Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka - whose side play Manchester United in the League Cup tomorrow - was assistant to Mourinho at Real Madrid, and knows him pretty well. 

"He's not good because he's a winner. When he's not winning, he's not good," Karanka said.  

"When he was winning trophies, the Champions League and the league, everybody was saying how good he is. 

"Now his friends are the people who have to say he's the best and is going to keep on being the best."

PA

Does Jose just need a little bit of love?

Proud record

Matt Sandoz

Stoke City commentator, BBC Radio Stoke

Stoke City’s last 16 draw at home to Chelsea has recently become more interesting.  Despite the Potters disappointing performance against Watford on Saturday, Mark Hughes’ team has been in good form of late.

So with Chelsea floundering in the Premier League, Stoke will be hoping they can compound Jose Mourinho’s misery and progress into the quarter-finals.

On a night when the club will be celebrating the success of the League Cup winning team of 1972, Mark Hughes will be hoping that his modern-day stars can emulate their achievements by beating the same opponents.

It's Tuesday, it's Stoke, it's cold...

It's been a pretty testing week for all involved at Chelsea, but at least it's not raining tonight..?

Mori ready to step in

Everton summer recruit Ramiro Funes Mori is ready to fill the void left by injured captain Phil Jagielka, according to manager Roberto Martinez.

Getty Images

The Toffees have kept all their three Premier League clean sheets while Jagielka was playing but the England international will be out for two months after suffering a knee injury in the Saturday's 2-1 loss to Arsenal.

"When you get suspensions and injuries, that's when it opens an opportunity for someone else," Martinez said.

"Ramiro has been adapting himself to the British game really well and it has been a very natural process which has been very impressive."

Changes afoot

Rob Butler

BBC Radio Norfolk sport

Norwich City travel to Everton in the last 16 of the League Cup on the back of three defeats on the bounce in the Premier League.

Manager Alex Neil was relaxed and in a jovial mood at the pre match press conference, he said there will be changes from the side who lost to West Brom at Carrow Road on Saturday. 

DR Congo striker Dieumerci Mbokani is a doubt, he has a sickness bug. Mbokani has scored two goals in the last three games. Youssouf Mulumbu could make his debut, he's recovered from an injury suffered in pre-season. 

PA

Inspirational figure?

Mike Hughes

BBC Radio Merseyside Sport

Everton fans going to Goodison Park on Tuesday will see a massive photograph of Howard Kendall - complete with beaming smile and holding the Championship trophy - adorning the Main Stand.

Can the club's most successful manager serve as an inspiration for the Capital One Cup fourth-round tie with Norwich City?

Everton are without the injured Phil Jagielka and suspended Gareth Barry, while Joel Robles will replace Tim Howard in goal with a place in the quarter finals at stake.

League Cup latest

With under two hours to go before the evening's League Cup action gets under way, let's take a little scout around the grounds...

Search under way at Anfield

There's been a bit of an update on the evacuation of Liverpool's stadium - here's the latest Merseyside Police statement: 

"Merseyside Police can confirm that a search of Anfield football stadium is currently under way after the club raised an alert earlier this afternoon. "At 15:05 GMT, the club reported to Merseyside Police that the ground had been evacuated after a man who had been on a tour was unaccounted for and believed to be in the stadium. "The club cannot guarantee that the man has left the ground and therefore a search of the ground is under way."     

PA

Leicester sign De Villiers

Getty Images

Leicester Tigers have signed former South Africa captain Jean de Villiers.

With 109 Test caps, de Villiers is among the most experienced players in the world game. 

He was part of South Africa's World Cup winning squad in 2007 and captain of the 2015 campaign, but announced his international retirement after suffering a fractured jaw in the second round of the tournament.

Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: "He is one of the leading centres in the modern game and has played at the very highest level for a significant period of time."

'I just called... to say...'

AP, PA

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe is clearly impressed with his winger Max Gradel, and it sounds like the feeling is mutual... 

Despite being back in his native Ivory Coast recovering from a cruciate ligament injury, Gradel told BBC Sportsworld that Howe "looks after me like a son". 

"He always rings me every day to make me feel I'm still part of the team even though I cannot play," he added. 

"He's crazy, I've never had this before. He asks me if everything's OK, if he can do anything, and tells me that 'I can't wait to see you, I miss you'. 

"He's a great man. He's a great manager, but on top of this, he's a great person. I'm very blessed to have him as a coach."

Russian Olympic finalist fails drugs test

Getty Images

Mariya Bespalova, who reached the final of the hammer in 2012, has been suspended after testing positive for a banned substance last month at a meeting in Berlin. 

Bespalova finished 11th in the London Olympics, with gold being taken by her Russian teammate Tatyana Lysenko. 

Gerrard playing for free at Shrewsbury

No, it's not that one - Shrewsbury Town defender Anthony Gerrard says he is playing for the League One club for nothing in a bid to get his career going again.

The 29-year-old former Walsall, Cardiff City and Hull centre-back (the cousin of former England and Liverpool captain Steven), joined the Shrews on non-contract terms after being released by Huddersfield in the summer.

"Money is the furthest thing from my mind. I just want to re-establish myself," he told BBC Radio Shropshire.

Getty Images

Manchester City news conference

What about City's ambitions with regards to the League Cup. Are they in it to win it?

"It is an important competition for the club," Pellegrini says. "It's a chance to play a final at Wembley in front of 90,000 people."

Reuters

Manchester City news conference

Is there any update on the City players out injured? 

Pelelgrini: "The injury list is exactly the same as the last game. Clichy, Delph, Nasri, Aguero and Silva are out."  

Manchester City news conference

AP

Nice of you to join us, Manuel...

Better late then never, right? 

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini is finally out and in front of the cameras, speaking ahead of his side's League Cup fixture with Crystal Palace tomorrow night. 

What kind of a team will the Chilean be putting out? 

"We will play the starting eleven we can," he says. "It’s not easy. We have a lot of injuries and a lot of players are playing a lot of games.”

Chelsea will turn it around - Lampard

Getty Images

Former Chelsea football star Frank Lampard is convinced his old club can turn around their dismal start to the season.

"It's a hot topic because you don't expect Chelsea to lose games like they've been losing recently," said the midfielder, now at New York City FC.

"These periods do happen, I've been involved in them before and the thing that matters is coming out of them the other side.

"With Jose Mourinho in charge, the squad they've got, the talent they've got on the pitch and the club that Chelsea is now - I don't see anyway that they won't turn it around."

Paatelainen does not regret outburst

Reuters

Dundee United manager Mixu Paatelainen reiterated his demand that his players improve as they build up to Saturday's Premiership visit by Ross County.

The Finn said United were "absolute rubbish" in his second match in charge, their 5-0 defeat by Celtic on Sunday.

But former club skipper Maurice Malpas fears the public berating might damage the confidence of the younger players.

"I never identified any individuals. I was critical of the whole squad," said Paatelainen on Tuesday.

"We don't tolerate performances like that. The things that we didn't do right were very basic. I was very annoyed with that and I still am."

Sims extends Warrington contract

Warrington Wolves prop Ashton Sims signs a new deal keeping him with the Super League side until 2017. 

The Fiji international joined from North Queensland Cowboys this year and impressed in his debut season.

Manchester City news conference

A reminder that we'll be hearing from Manchester City manager Manuel Pelleginri soon - stay tuned for the best bits...

No VIP deal

Some Sheffield Wednesday fans might raise their eyes slightly at the news that their club has signed Gary Hooper from Norwich.

According to this Sheffield Star article from last month, the Owls made a deadline day move to get the striker in on loan - but it didn't happen because the striker’s wanted a VIP box at Hillsborough as part of the deal...

PA

Wednesday sign Hooper

Getty Images

Sheffield Wednesday have signed Norwich strikerGary Hooperon anemergency loan deal.

The former Celtic player, who has netted 20 goals in 70 matches for the Canaries, will remain at Hillsborough until 17 January.

Hooper, recently recovered from an ankle injury, has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Carrow Road this term and the last of his two appearances came in the defeat to Southampton at the end of August.

Two men go 'missing' inside Anfield

Getty Images

The Liverpool Echo is reporting that police have been called to Anfield after two men went missing inside the stadium.

Merseyside Police sent crews to the stadium at 15:05 GMT after a report that the men had gone missing.

The stadium - which is currently being redeveloped to increase the capacity to 54,000 - has been evacuated.

Scotland maintain 100% record

.

Two goals from Rachel Corsie helped Scotland to a 4-1 in Macedonia to go top of Group 1 in Euro 2017 qualifying.

All four Scotland goals were scored inside a frantic spell in the first half, with Kim Little opening the scoring on 22 minutes, and Caroline Weir getting the fourth just nine minutes later. 

With three victories, Anna Signeul's side lead the group, above top seeds Iceland on goal difference. 

You can read a full match report here.

'Khan favourite for final Pacquiao bout'

Getty Images

Amir Khan says he is the favourite to face Manny Pacquiao in the Filipino boxing legend's final fight.

Khan had earlier suggested the match was unlikely but now believes there is a "big chance" of taking on the seven-weight world champion.

Alongside Khan, Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum has also named Terence Crawford and Tim Bradley as possible contenders for his star's last bout.

"I am the front-runner," Khan told BBC Sport.

"There's a big chance of the fight happening, it's all about making sure my team is on point with the deal and they need to make sure they get the fight that I want."

Coloccini ban overturned

The Football Association say an Independent Regulatory Commission found the match referee had made an error in dismissing Coloccini for denying an obvious goalscoring opportunity.

English football's governing body also said they have charged Newcastle for failing to control their players - in relation to the reaction to the sending off.

The Magpies have until 18:00 GMT on Friday to respond to the charge

Coloccini ban overturned

Newcastle captain Coloccini was given a straight red card during first half injury-time in Sunday's 3-0 defeat by Sunderland, following an incident involving Sunderland's Steven Fletcher which resulted in the awarding of a penalty kick.

BreakingColoccini ban overturned

Getty Images

Newcastle defender Fabricio Coloccini will not serve a one-match suspension after his wrongful dismissal claim was successful.

Fulham recall Donnelly from Crawley

Fulham have recalled defender Liam Donnelly from his loan spell at League Two side Crawley Town.

The 19-year-old Northern Ireland international has made 12 appearances for the Reds and was due to remain with the West Sussex club until 2 January.

Meanwhile, Ipswich defender Josh Yorwerth has extended his loan spell with Crawley until 29 December.

Test of knowledge

Earlier on, we asked...

The answers? NY Yankees, St Louis Cardinals, Oakland Athletics, San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox and LA Dodgers.

‘Music is the key to the soul’

Have you heard Lewis Hamilton playing the piano? He’s pretty good!

He says he just 'dibbles and dabbles', but take it from us - it's impressive stuff.    

Don't believe us? Have a listen over here…

Time on his side

Elizabeth Hudson

BBC Sport at IPC Athletics Championships, Doha

BBC Sport

Richard Whitehead speaks to BBC Radio 5 live after breaking his own world record in the T42 200m heats at the IPC Athletics World Championships in Doha.

The London 2012 gold medallist clocked a time of 24.10 - beating the 24.38 he set at the Olympic Stadium three years ago.

"I was quite nervous this morning," he admitted. "I knew I was in great shape and I wanted to go out there and deliver."

What were you doing at 28?

Getty Images

Hoffenheim have appointed a new manager - and he's only 28. 

Julian Nagelsmann, who has yet to pass his senior coaching exams, has been in charge of the Hoffenheim U19s, and will take over at the end of the season.

By our calculations, there are six players in the current Hoffenheim squad who are older than Nagelsmann, including former Germany striker Kevin Kuranyi. 

We've just worked out that he was born after Maradona's handball...

Heading to Rio

Great Britain's men have qualified for the Rio Olympic Games after confirming their place in the World Gymnastics Championships team final.

The top eight nations in Glasgow guarantee places in Rio, and Great Britain's score of 354.417 on Sunday proved enough.

Great Britain finished qualifying in third place behind Japan and China.

The team consists of Max Whitlock, Dan Purvis, Louis Smith, Nile Wilson, Kristian Thomas and Brinn Bevan.

"Getting the team to Rio was the number one priority coming here and we're all delighted to have got the job done," said Thomas, pictured below doing a procedure you definitely shouldn't try at home...

Getty Images

Germany World Cup payment claim

Fresh allegations that bribes were paid to help Germany secure the 2006 World Cup have surfaced with claims that a Fifa member from New Zealand was paid $250,000 on the eve of the vote.

Theo Zwanziger, the former head of the German FA, claims a Swiss court document bears out his belief that the late Charles Dempsey was paid off - Dempsey had been mandated to vote for South Africa but abstained and Germany won the vote 12-11.

Molloy extends Wakefield stay

swpix.com

Forward Jon Molloy has given Wakefield a boost by signing a new two-year deal with the club. 

The 24-year-old second-row joined the Wildcats from Huddersfield Giants in April 2013 and has made 25 Super League appearances for the club.

Historic garment

Bill Rice

BBC Radio Manchester

Getty Images

A shirt worn by a footballer who helped form the players' union has sold for £30,000 at auction.

The jersey was worn by Manchester United captain Charlie Roberts during the club's first FA Cup final win in 1909, when they beat Bristol City 1-0.

Five years ago on this very day, United themselves paid over £200,000 for former player Nobby Stiles’ World Cup & European Cup winners medals at auction.

Worcester sign Georgia's Bregvadze

Premiership side Worcester Warriors have signed Georgia international hooker Jaba Bregvadze.

The 27-year-old, who has won 32 caps for his country, played in three pool games at the World Cup and is available for Warriors' match against Gloucester on Saturday.

Prince will present trophy

Getty Images

It has been confirmed that Prince Harry will present the Webb Ellis Cup to the winners of Rugby World Cup at Twickenham on Saturday.

New Zealand and Australia go had-to-head in the final.

In his role as Honorary President of England Rugby 2015, Prince Harry spoke at the opening ceremony - and will close the tournament by handing the trophy to the winning captain.

Get Involved

Today we're asking; Which one player would you want to appear in your testimonial and why?

Getty Images

Andrew Drummond: Ice-man Dennis Bergkamp at testimonial. You can't buy class. Let's rework Newcastle pirouette goal with fat amateurs.

Nick of the Town: My testimonial player of choice would be Jean Louis Valois - joined Luton, set the league alight, left. Far too good.

Darragh Nolan: Has to be John Arne Riise, cult hero at LFC and that rocket of a left foot is unmatched.

Getty Images

Get in touch using #bbcsportsday on Twitteror post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Bournemouth news conference

Cherries assistant boss Jason Tindall adds: "You have two teams that haven't won their past few games, so it's going to be a tough game.

"Off the back of two defeats you want to win your next game as soon as possible. This is our chance to do that."  

Tindall finishes by saying, "Hopefully we can use this cup game as a catalyst to spur on our performances in the Premier League."

No doubt Jurgen Klopp will be thinking the same.

There is full live text commentary of all eight League Cup fourth round ties - four tonight, four on Wednesday - on the BBC Sport website.

Bournemouth news conference

Getty Images

Assistant manager Jason Tindall, not Eddie Howe, is facing the media ahead of the Cherries League Cup fourth round test at Anfield.

"I don't think, with the number of injuries, that it'll be possible to make as many changes as previous rounds," says Tindall.

"But as always we will be putting out a team that we feel are more than capable of winning the match."

Mourinho 'will turn things around'

Getty Images

Pat Nevin backs Jose Mourinho to turns things around, despite results “wearing down on him” and the “pressure affecting him slightly”.

"Certainly, it’s wearing down on him, the fact that Chelsea aren’t playing well now," said Nevin.

"There’s a really big job to be done. The pressure seems to be affecting him slightly but the pressure affects everyone everybody. He’s not a happy guy.

"If I was a Chelsea executive, I would want to keep him. I would be standing by him."

Two men charged for Blackpool harassment

Getty Images

Blackpool fans have been protesting against chairman Karl Oyston for the last 18 months

Lancashire Police have confirmed two men have been charged as part of their investigation into claims of harassment against Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston.

Stephen Reed and David Ragozzino have each been charged with harassment and bailed to appear at Blackpool Magistrates Court in November, having originally been arrested and released on police bail in August.

Oyston, who has experienced a strained relationship with the Blackpool fanbase in recent years, was banned by the Football Association for six weeks over the summer following a foul-mouthed text-message exchange he had with another supporter in 2014. 

OBE for Lampard

Proud day for Frank Lampard...

Not staying ahead

Joint effort at Watford

Geoff Doyle

BBC Three Counties Radio sport

Getty Images

Watfordare enjoying life in the Premier League and so are their fans. The relationship is pretty special, too. 

Ahead of Saturday's game - where Watford 'out-Stoked' Stoke - manager Quique Flores stated: "They will be the most important part of the process if we're to stay in the category [division]." 

He was alluding to the supporters being their 12th man and the near 3,000 responded at the Brittania by chanting Flores' name. "They help us. They are brave. They push. We have to give the best." 

Difficult days at Northampton

These are not happy times at League Two Northampton.

Financial problems mean there is "every chance" players and staff will not get paid on time, chief executive James Whiting said.

The Cobblers have been issued with a winding-up petition by HM Revenue & Customs over unpaid debts and has also failed to repay a £10m council loan.

Sharapova closes on last-four place

Getty Images

World number four Maria Sharapova held her nerve in a tense finish to beat top seed Simona Halep and close in on a last-four place at the WTA Finals.

The Russian withstood a Halep fightback to win 6-4 6-4 and move top of the Red Group in Singapore.

US Open champion Flavia Pennetta earlier beat Agnieszka Radwanska 7-6 (7-5) 6-4 to keep her hopes alive.

Pennetta and Sharapova will meet in the final round of Red Group matches on Thursday, with Halep facing Radwanska.

Coming up in Doha...

Elizabeth Hudson

BBC Sport at IPC Athletics Championships, Doha

Getty Images

It's another hot and humid evening here in Doha as we reach day six of the IPC Athletics World Championships.

With seven gold medals already, Great Britain are looking good on the medal table but the general view is that medals will be tricky to come by tonight.

Jo Butterfield, gold medallist in the F51 club throw, goes in the discus, but this is the weaker of her two events while Stephen Osbourne is in action in the T51 100m.

Elsewhere, Richard Whitehead and Invictus Games hero Dave Henson start their campaigns in the T42 200m hoping to reach Wednesday's final.

Enrique to play kids in Cup

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique says he will field as many youngsters as the rules permit in Wednesday's Copa del Rey fixture against third-tier Villanovense.

"My intention is to use as many youth players as possible and I would have liked to use more," the Spaniard said. 

"The rules though state that we have to field seven first team players and that is the situation. It would have been better that more players didn't have to travel." 

Reuters

Izaguirre needs stitches after training clash

Alasdair Lamont

BBC Sport Scotland

PA

Celtic full-back Emilio Izaguirre required stitches to his ear following a reaction by team-mate Nadir Ciftci to a challenge in training.

Manager Ronny Deila, who was not present when the incident took place, said both players had been spoken to and the matter was now closed.

Izaguirre is available to play against Hearts on Wednesday, as is Ciftci.

"I always say to my players I want 100% and we have a fantastic atmosphere on the training pitch," said Deila.

"Sometimes it gets a little too hot."

Hamilton's Africa plea

Getty Images

Three-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has taken time off from celebrating to call for Formula 1 to return to South Africa.

Hamilton, 30, clinched his third world title after a 10th victory of the season at the US Grand Prix on Sunday.

"I would love for it to be in South Africa. They are great sporting fans and are just petrolheads who love cars," Hamilton told BBC World Service.

The South African GP featured 23 times on the F1 calendar following its debut in 1962 but was last staged in 1993.

Southampton news conference

Koeman's also lobbed up a couple of easy ones about the team's progress so far this season. Has the team started to gel? Are you happy with the progress? Yes, and yes. 

And the Dutchman adds that neither Jay Rodriguez nor Shane Long will be available for the fixture at St Mary's tomorrow night.   

Southampton news conference

What about the sacking of Tim Sherwood then? Was it the right decision? 

"No not so fast," Koeman says. "In my opinion there are too many clubs changing their manager too fast. 

"Most of the time they change the manager and it is not better for the team. Sometimes yes but it's always disappointing anyway, because all the managers know this is a difficult job, and sometimes you need understanding and support."

Reuters

Southampton news conference

What about your view of the League Cup, Ronald? Will you be taking it seriously?

By the sounds of it, it's a firm yes. 

"We'd like to win something. The team that starts tomorrow will be a strong team," Koeman says.

"It is always better than thinking to reserve players, but also for us this season is a bit different, because the squad is stronger now."

Southampton news conference

As promised we'll soon be hearing from Southampton manager Ronald Koeman, who'll be looking ahead to his side's League Cup fixture with Aston Villa tomorrow night.

Wonder what he makes of the race to replace Tim Sherwood?

Good news for Froome!

Wow - that really is impressive camera work.

Congratulations to Britain's Tour de France champion Chris Froome and his partner Michelle, who are expecting a baby (if you hadn't already worked that one out)...

Hayles relishing Rovers return

Chesham United player-coach Barry Hayles was overjoyed with the FA Cup first-round draw. 

Why? He'll be facing his former side Bristol Rovers, 17 years after leaving the club.

The 43-year-old scored 32 goals in 62 games for Rovers and became a fans' favourite before leaving to join Fulham in 1998.

Check out the full list of first-round fixtures, over here.

That winning feeling

Not sure the England lads will particularly appreciate seeing this today...

FA chiefs to be questioned

PA

Football Association chiefs are to be questioned over their handling of anti-discrimination cases, including that of ex-Chelsea doctor Eva Carneiro.

Members of the FA's Inclusion Advisory Board (IAB) say they have "deep concerns" about the way Carneiro's case was dealt with by the FA.

Carneiro left Chelsea last month after criticism from manager Jose Mourinho.

Sale not guilty

Nathan Middleton

BBC Sport

Sale Sharks boss Steve Diamond has confirmed they were not one of the two clubs being investigated for Premiership salary cap breaches.

Wasps released a statement last week saying they were not one of the club's and Sale have now followed suit.

On the pitch, there are new injury concerns for their game against Northampton this Sunday with prop Eifion Lewis Roberts still out with an ankle injury.

New deal for Navas?

Reuters

Just under two months ago, Keylor Navas was waiting in an airport lobby, getting ready to jet off to Manchester as part of the deal that was supposed to bring David De Gea to Real Madrid. 

The 28-year-old later said he cried ("a build-up of emotions") as the move broke over paperwork issues. Tears of joy? 

Now though, the Costa Rican is set to be offered a new contract and a hefty raise, according to Marca.

The Spanish sports daily also reports that a new deal for Navas does not mean the end of Madrid's pursuit of De Gea...

Marathon runner hides in bush

Kenyan athletics officials intercepted a runner who cheated his way into second position to win prize money during a weekend marathon in the capital Nairobi.

Julius Njogu was stopped after it was found he had hid in a hedge six kilometres from the finish line.

Race director Ibrahim Hussein said: "This Njogu guy purported to finish as runner up. He splashed water on himself to appear to have sweated. But he was too fresh to cheat anybody."

Below is not Njogu but a picture of Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart looking for a ball during training. But, hey, give us a break, it's the closest we could find of someone lurking in the undergrowth.

Getty Images

Happy Birthday Harry Gregg

The former Manchester United and Northern Ireland goalkeeper, who survived the Munich Disaster, turns 83 today.   

Bedene on song

Getty Images

Britain's Aljaz Bedene has something to cheer today, completing an impressive victory over French eighth-seed Jeremy Chardy at the Valenica Open.

Bedene, ranked 48th in the world, won in three sets, 3-6 6-2 6-1.

Liverpool news conference

How have the first few weeks of the new job gone? Here's Jurgen's thoughts:

"I'm surprised how big the steps we've taken are but everybody can see we want results.

"These players have skills to make goals but in the decisive moments we don't make the right choices." 

EPA

Liverpool news conference

Will Liverpool be putting out a strong team even with the changes?

"It's a very, very important game," answers Klopp.  

"But I know we have a lot of games in the legs so we have to change.

"It's the most important cup in the world because it's the game we have to play tomorrow."

Liverpool news conference

First a word on injuries from Klopp. 

Daniel Sturridge is "getting better" but won't be in contention for a place tomorrow night, otherwise there's nothing new. 

There will be changes in team selection, but he doesn't know how many yet.

Getty Images

Liverpool news conference

Liverpool are also in League Cup action this midweek, and we'll shortly be hearing from their manager Jurgen Klopp, too. 

Stay tuned for the best bits. 

Middlesbrough news conference

More from Boro boss Karanka: "I think the main game last season was against Liverpool (when they lost on penalties at Anfield, in the League Cup) because that was the game that put us on the map. 

"At the time we had been in the Championship for a while and people had forgotten.

"The main thing is the fans deserve these games. It's difficult for them at games like Cardiff so I hope they can enjoy tomorrow like they did at Anfield and the Etihad." 

Middlesbrough news conference

Getty Images

Remember Middlesbrough's victory at Manchester City in last season's FA Cup? 

The boys from Teesside are back in town on Wednesday night, taking on Manchester United in the League Cup.

Boro boss Aitor Karanka has been speaking to the media today - how does he rate his side's chances of a repeat performance?

"Everyone's expecting us to play well because we did last season against good teams, but we have players injured," the Spaniard says.

"It would be perfect if we beat them but I want to finish the games with no injuries and with a good performance."

Valencia's Rodrigo suffers ligament injury

Reuters

Rodrigo made last season's loan from Benfica permanent this summer

Valencia striker Rodrigo is ruled out for three months after partially tearing a knee ligament.

The 24-year-old striker, who is yet to score a league goal this season, suffered the injury in Sunday's 2-1 loss away to Atletico Madrid. 

Defeat left Valencia ninth in La Liga, nine points off joint leaders Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Get Involved

Today we're asking; Which one player would you want to appear in your testimonial and why?

Getty Images

Oomar Jaunmohamud: Sylvester Stallone...with a red bandana...in goal.

Thomas McLinden: Would definitely have to be Steven Gerrard. A true Liverpool legend.

Ben Prior: Adebayo Akinfenwa (the beast), as he could crush the opposition. Literally.

Getty Images

Get in touch using #bbcsportsday on Twitteror post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Song appointed Chad boss

Former Liverpool and West Ham defender Rigobert Song is named as Chad's new manager.

The 39-year-old from Cameroon succeeds Frenchman Emmanuel Tregoat, whose contract expired on 30 September.

"It's not going to be an easy task to qualify for the 2017 Nations Cup but we are prepared to give our best," Song said. 

His first match is a 2018 World Cup qualifier against Egypt in November.

Getty Images

Richards charged by FA

The FA also say they decided to take no action on  a coming together involving Richards and Swansea’s Federico Fernandez in the 30th minute of the match at Villa Park.

English football's governing body says Richards has until 18:00 GMT on Thursday to reply to the charge.

PA

BreakingRichards charged by FA

Aston Villa defender Micah Richards is charged with improper conduct by the Footbal Association following an incident which occurred in the tunnel at the end of his side's game against Swansea City on Saturday. 

Reuters

Big Sam a big presence

Getty Images

Sunderland's new manager Sam Allardyce is a big presence in the dressing room, says striker Steven Fletcher.

Big Sam led the Black Cats to a 3-0 win over rivals Newcastle on Sunday, Sunderland's first league win of the season.

"The boys have got a lot of confidence now with the new manager coming in," Fletcher said. "He's a lot more organised, probably the most organised manager I have worked with.

"Sam is a big man with a big presence and when he walks in the room everyone shuts up and listens to him. So that's a good start."

Get Involved

Today we're asking; Which one player would you want to appear in your testimonial and why?

Getty Images

Christopher Sorrell:Paolo Di Canio. Absolute Legend of the Game. Also, it's a small chance he might re-create THAT goal.

Andrew Edwards: Can I update mine to Rogério Ceni in goal now that I've noticed he's scored twice as many as Chilavert?

Get in touch using #bbcsportsday on Twitteror post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

'There's a wicket at the Olympics...'

Getty Images

All-time greats Shane Warne and Sachin Tendulkar have called for Twenty20 cricket to become an Olympic sport.

Cricket has not featured since 1900 but the sport's governing body is meeting the International Olympic Committee next month to discuss a possible bid.

"I'd love to see it as an Olympic sport and, who knows, down the track it might be," Warne told BBC Stumped.

"I think it's a great idea and I reckon T20 is the best format for it," added Tendulkar on the World Service show.

Joel trying elsewhere

Getty Images

Castleford have signed Warrington's prolific try-scoring winger Joel Monaghan on a two-year deal.

The 33-year-old Australian - who averaged a try a match in his 145 appearances for the Wolves - had been linked with Catalans Dragons and Salford after being released from the final year of his contract at Warrington at the end of the 2015 season.

Turning out in force

Get Involved

Today we're asking; Which one player would you want to appear in your testimonial and why?

Getty Images

Paul Ford: It would have to be Glenn Hoddle. Simply a legend. And my hero

John McEnemey: Henrik"The King of Kings"Larsson, a gent, class act & the greatest player ever to wear The Hoops

Andrew Priestley: Eric Cantona should be a permanent and mandatory part of every single testimonial game every organised or played. Genius.

Getty Images

Get in touch using #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text from UK mobiles on 81111, or post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Worcester nab Jaba

Getty Images

Worcester have announced the signing of Georgia World Cup hooker Jaba Bregvadze.

Bregvadze, who has won 32 caps, will link up with his new team-mates ahead of next Saturday's Premiership game against Gloucester. 

Root out in front

'We don't blame Rashid'

Getty Images

England coach Trevor Bayliss says no-one is blaming Adil Rashid for the manner of his decisive dismissal in the 178-run second Test defeat by Pakistan.

Rashid was last man out, caught at cover from a mistimed drive, to end England's stubborn resistance on day five with just 6.3 overs remaining. Prior to that, the 27-year-old spinner had batted 242 minutes for 61.

"I am sure he is reflecting on the shot he played at the end and kicking himself," said Bayliss.

"But no-one is blaming him. If a few of our boys had played in a similar fashion to him throughout the match we wouldn't have been in that situation."

Mets or Royals, will you stay up?

Reuters

The first match in the best-of-seven series is in Kansas City's Kauffman Stadium

And in case you were wondering who's contesting the most prestigious prize in baseball tonight...

The New York Mets are making their first appearance in the World Series since 2000, while the Kansas City Royals were last year's beaten finalists. 

Will you be watching tonight? Play gets underway after midnight in the UK... 

Test of knowledge

Think you know? Why not write in? The answers will be revealed later this afternoon...

'I can win Tour one day' - Thomas

Getty Images

Will we soon see Thomas on the podium? Or even in yellow?

Geraint Thomas's form has been so brilliant over the past few seasons that it would be hard to argue a case against the Welshman continuing his rise to become a real Tour de France contender. . 

In an interview with the Guardian, Thomas, who was fourth after stage 17 of this year's Tour, says he sees it as a real possibility. One day...

How time flies...

Check out this time-lapse footage of the work being done at Anfield, where Liverpool are expanding their stadium. 

The work's been going since January and once finished will see the Main Stand expanded to include another 8,500 seats in a third tier, bringing overall capacity up to around 54,000.

The club say the works are on schedule for completion during the 2016/17 season.

Shot at glory?

Jason Bourne

BBC Radio Leicester Sport

Getty Images

Claudio Ranieri says it's a "dream" of his to lead a side out at Wembley after missing out on the chance while at Chelsea because the stadium was being rebuilt. 

Would people be surprised if Leicester City make it all the way this season after the start they've had in the Premier League? Their brand of counter-attacking, no fear football almost seems suited to cup competitions. 

Ranieri is expected to change his entire team, expect to see young striker Joe Dodoo, Swiss captain Gokhan Inler and Croatian international Andrej Kramaric all get the chance to start at Hull.

A very happy birthday to....

AFP, Getty Images, Rex

Stephan El Shaarawy, Glenn Hoddle and Kurt Zouma, all of whom are celebrating today. 

One was born in Hayes in 1957, one was born in Savona, Italy in 1992, and one was born in Lyon in 1994. 

We'll let you work out which one is which.

Premiership game to be played in New York

Dan Roan

BBC Sports editor

Rugby following NFL's lead... a Premiership match between London Irish and Saracens will be played at New York’s Red Bull Arena on 12 March, 2016.

The game will take place in the build-up to St Patrick’s Day and will be "a celebration of Irish culture for the many thousands of first, second and third generation Irish people living in the New York region".

Jose looking to leave the Bridge?

PA

Is Jose Mourinho already preparing for life away from Stamford Bridge? 

That's what the Independent is reporting - the paper says Mourinho's representatives are already sounding out options at Paris St-Germain or Inter Milan in case he is sacked. 

Mourinho, whose Chelsea side play at Stoke in the League Cup this evening, was yesterday charged with misconduct by the Football Assocation for comments made during the 2-1 defeat at West Ham on Saturday. 

That loss left the Blues 15th in the Premier League, 11 points short on Manchester City...

Who will take over Fifa?

Getty Images

The race to succeed Fifa president Sepp Blatter has reached a crucial stage, with candidates having until 23:00 GMT on Monday to submit their paperwork together with letters of support from five football associations.

World Football's governing body has confirmed it will hold the election to determine Blatter's successor at a special congress on 26 February 2016.

Fifa is yet to confirm the shortlist, but - because we're the kind sorts and this story is rather confusing to follow - BBC Sport has taken a look at the eight candidates thought to be in the running.

You can read the article here.

'The players don't call me Mike'

Reuters

Mike, sorry, Chris Smalling is starting to show his best for United

There's more on Smalling's excellent form this season in the Daily Telegraph - including his take on the 'Mike' nickname fans have been reluctant to drop. 

That all came about after Louis van Gaal referred to him as ‘Mike Smalling’ in a press conference during a tour of the United States.

"The players don't call me Mike, but I think a lot of the fans do,” Smalling said. “You go to Russia or wherever and it's 'Mike, Mike, Mike'.

“It's going to stick with me forever, that one."

Smalling among best in world

Getty Images

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling is among the "top three centre-halves in the world", according to club captain Wayne Rooney.

Smalling has risen from a bit-part player to a first team regular under manager Louis van Gaal over the past 18 months.

"He has been incredible and for me he is right up there in world football in terms of centre-halves," Rooney said.

"He is in the top three centre-halves in the world -- I think he is that good. He is developing to become more of a leader of the back four and it is great to see for both United and England."

Get Involved

Getty Images

Just look at that hair...

Today we're asking; Which one player would you want to appear in your testimonial and why?

John Mulleny: Without a doubt it would be Tugay, made every pass look so easy, loved by every Blackburn Rovers fan.

Tom Lyons: Tony Hibbert for my testimonial. Legendary cult hero. One testimonial, one goal. Goal machine.

John Dykes: Nicklas Bendtner. Obviously.

Get in touch using #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text from UK mobiles on 81111, or post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Falcao off to Russia?

Getty Images

Interesting news in today's Daily Telegraph.

Apparently, Zenit St Petersburg manager Andre Villas-Boas wants to end 29-year-old Radamel Falcao's nightmare at Stamford Bridge by taking him on loan at the Russian club when the January window opens.

Staying in Sydney

Getty Images

England coach Steve McNamara has committed his future to Sydney Roosters by signing a new two-year contract.

PA Sport says no official announcement has been made by the Roosters at the request of McNamara, who wants to remain focused on England's three-Test series against New Zealand, which starts this weekend.

The news means that if McNamara is re-appointed as England coach for the 2017 World Cup, it will be on a part-time basis and he will continue to be based in Sydney.

Didcot thrilled with Exeter tie

Imagine how the nerves would have been jangling in Exeter after the League Two club were paired with eighth-tier side Didcot Town in the FA Cup first round draw.

Exeter were dumped out of the competition by non-league Warrington Town in front of the BBC cameras a year ago.

Getty Images

Didcot, the lowest-ranked team left in this year's competition, believe a repeat of that shock is possible.

"We're absolutely looking forward to it and we've got nothing to lose, so we're going to give it a right good go," joint-manager Ian Concannon told BBC Radio Oxford.

"We're pleased that a league club's got to come to us and with it being the FA Cup, there could be an upset, you never know."

England beat Australia

It's all over in China where England's women have just beaten Australia 1-0 in a friendly match. 

It was Izzy Christiansen who got the only goal of the game, just after the break, Lucy Bronze with the assist. 

Eniola Aluko had hit the bar in the first half as Jill Scott collected her 100th cap.

What's next for Mark Sampson's side? They next play in another friendly match, with Germany, on 26 November. 

Buttler facing the axe

Getty Images

England are set to persist with Moeen Ali as Alastair Cook's opening partner, but may decide out-of-form Jos Buttler needs another rest.

Coach Trevor Bayliss acknowledged, in the aftermath of defeat in the second Test, that both Moeen's position and Buttler's further down the order are in question.

"As everyone's aware, the opening batting position hasn't been a success as yet," said Bayliss. "Personally, I think I'd like to give Moeen another opportunity."

On Buttler, Bayliss said: "We know Jos is a quality player, and I think he'll play a big role in England's future going forward. But everyone who has ever played the game has been through a bit of a rough trot - and this is one of his rough trots."

Get Involved

Today we're asking; Which one player would you want to appear in your testimonial and why?

Getty Images

Tyrone Tucker: Gerd Muller brilliant goal scorer

Stephen Allen: Zola of course, a true natural genius on the ball. An ambassador of how the game should be played and a gentleman.

Kieran Milward: Massimo Taibi - That way I might have a chance of scoring.

Getty Images

Get in touch using #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text from UK mobiles on 81111, or post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

What next for Villa?

BBC WM Sport

Will it be Dwight Yorke? Remi Garde? 

For former Aston Villa manager Ron Atkinson, neither should replace Tim Sherwood - he's backing Nigel Pearson.

"He knows the course and distance, he’s well experienced, he did a phenomenal job at getting Leicester out of problems last season," Atkinson told BBC WM Sport. 

"At this moment in time, you wonder about a new manager coming in, particularly a foreign manager. Garde has got a good reputation at Lyon but you wonder whether his style of management would be enough, because it is survival.

"They've got to come in and dig, scrap from now until the end of the season, and scramble their way to safety if they can.”

Getty Images

Rio on Villa

Yorke wants Villa job

Getty Images

Despite having as much managerial experience as us, Dwight Yorke says he is interested in becoming the next Aston Villa manager.

The West Midlands club are reportedly in advanced talks with former Lyon manager Remi Garde.

But Yorke - who scored 97 goals in more than 250 appearances for Villa - told Talksport: "There are young people ready to break into management and I don't see any reason why I shouldn't put my name in the hat.

"People will say I don't have any experience but we've seen people with experience go in there and struggle to do a job. I know that club inside out."

Pennetta too good

Getty Images

Another result in from the WTA Finals, where US Open champion Flavia Pennetta has beaten Agnieszka Radwanska 7-6 (5), 6-4.

If top-seeded Simona Halep beats Maria Sharapova later, Radwanska will be eliminated from semi-final contention after losing her opening two matches.

Pakistan pledge to help after earthquake

Pakistan's cricketers have pledged their support to the relief effort in the wake of the massive earthquake on Monday that has left more than 300 people dead in the country.

The 7.5 magnitude quake hit Afghanistan and north-west Pakistan, and the current confirmed death toll of 304 is set to rise as rescuers reach remote mountainous areas.

The Pakistan team said they did not celebrate their win against England in the second Test in Dubai after hearing news of the disaster.

Captain Misbah-ul-Haq (pictured below) said: "We are badly hurt by the news of the earthquake. It pushed our win against England to one side and every player was shocked and wants to contribute towards the relief work."

Getty Images

Get Involved

Getty Images

Frenchman Prunier made two league appearances for United over the 1995-96 season...

Today we're asking; Which one player would you want to appear in your testimonial and why?

Stefan Glosby: William Prunier. The greatest Manchester United player of all time.

Andrew Edwards: Jose Luis Chilavert in goal but mainly for all set pieces.

Greg Pattinson: Paul McGrath, an absolute GOD.  

Get in touch using #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text from UK mobiles on 81111, or post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

'I made a mistake'

Getty Images

Beckenbauer now...

Germany's World Cup-winning captain and former coach Franz Beckenbauer has said he made a "mistake" in the bidding process to host the 2006 World Cup, but denied that votes were bought.

Beckenbauer was the head of the World Cup organising committee, which reports allege made a payment to Fifa in return for a financial grant.

The 70-year-old said a Fifa proposal "should have been rejected".

Germany beat South Africa in 2000 to host the tournament six years later.

Getty Images

...and in his playing days

Marvellous Muguruza

Getty Images

Second seedGarbine Muguruzaof Spain marked her debut in the WTA finals with a 6-3 7-6 (7-4) victory over Lucie Safarova in Singapore.

The 22-year-old world number three is the first Spaniard to play in the event since Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario in 2001.

Sixth-seed Angelique Kerber beat world number five Petra Kvitova 6-2, 7-6 (7-3) for her second win in seven matches at the season-ending event.

World number one Serena Williams is absent as she recovers from injury.

On a roll

Getty Images

Arsenal are capable of achieving great things this season, or at lest that's what defender Laurent Koscielny reckons.

The Gunners have won their last four Premier League games and are behind leaders Manchester City in the Premier League table only on goal difference.

"I don't know if this is the best Arsenal team I have ever played for but collectively you can tell that we are capable to do great things together," Koscielny told the club's website.

 "We need to keep that team spirit and this desire and motivation until the end of the season.

Arsenal are at Sheffield Wednesday in the League Cup tonight, Petr Cech starting because of a shoulder injury to David Ospina.

Get Involved

Today we're asking; Which one player would you want to appear in your testimonial and why?

Anthony Lowe: Ronaldinho for being the greatest entertainer the game has known or Juninho for being a Boro legend.

Manish T: Paul Scholes. Could create that moment of magic at any point.

Beep Beep: Preben Elkjaer Larsen. Legendary Danish number 10 when they surprised the world.

Now that is a niche selection.

Get in touch using #bbcsportsday on Twitter, text from UK mobiles on 81111, or post a comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Getty Images

Elkjaer Larsen made 69 appearances for Denmark between 1977 and 1988

Broomes leaves London Bees role

The FA

London Bees head coach Julian Broomes has left the Women's Super League Two club after reaching the end of his contract.

Broomes took over at the Bees in August 2014 and led them to an eighth-placed finish last season.

Bruising

Courtesy of BBC rugby reporter Chris Jones, who is at an Australia news conference.

Australia, of course, beat Argentina 29-15 in the World Cup semi-finals at the weekend in an encounter that was anything but straightforward for the Wallabies.

Pocock can probably expect to add to his collection of bruises when the Aussies face the mighty New Zealand in Saturday's final at Twickenham.

Real Madrid and Vardy link

Getty Images

Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri believes "not many clubs" have enough money to buy the Premier League's leading scorer Jamie Vardy, 28, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid.

The Leicester Mercury quotes Ranieri as saying: "If Real Madrid or some big names want to buy him, they have the money to buy him. But not many teams can buy him now."

'Gutsy performance'

Getty Images

Stuart Broad has been on Twitter to reflect on Monday's Test defeat to Pakistan, a match in which England came within six overs of pulling off the most unlikeliest of draws.

Get Involved

Getty Images

Which, handily enough, leads us on to today's talking point - and by talking point, we basically mean it's your turn to do some of work for us.

With Wayne Rooney set for a testimonial at Man United, we want to know this

Which one player would you want to appear in your testimonial and why?

We don't want the obvious, the Beckhams, Ronaldos or Messis, we want something a bit different, maybe Matt Le Tissier so you'd never miss a pen, or Rene Higuita in goal, just for the entertainment value.

Send us your nominations now to #bbcsportsday or post at the BBC Sport Facebook page and we'll publish the best.

Rooney to get a testimonial

Proceeds from the testimonial will be distributed to several children's charities through the specifically createdWayne RooneyFoundation.

United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward said: "From his sensational debut hat-trick to the latest of his 236 goals, Wayne has been a central figure in what has been one of the most successful periods in the club's history." 

Getty Images

The news comes as Rooney, who turned 30 last week, comes under increasing scrutiny over his recent performances which have seen him score has scored two Premier League goals in nine appearances this season.

After the goalless draw with Man City on Sunday, United manager Louis van Gaal said he was "sick" of answering questions about the player he appointed captain at the start of the 2014-15 campaign.

Rooney to get a testimonial

Getty Images

Wayne Rooney has been granted a testimonial by Manchester United - with the England captain promising to donate all proceeds from the match to charity.

The testimonial was granted after fans wrote to the club asking them to recognise Rooney's contribution.

It will be at Old Trafford on 3 August 2016, with opponents to be decided.

"The match night will obviously be special for me and my family but I hope that we can also deliver one or two surprises," said Rooney.

Mayweather in the hot seat

A nice humble tweet for a Tuesday morning...

No problems

Getty Images

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany says he does not regret playing for Belgium during the international break against manager Manuel Pellegrini's wishes - and that it will not hurt his relationship with the Chilean.

"City and Belgium are two very important teams that have different goals and ambitions and it's just normal that stuff like this happens," Kompany said.

"My relationship with Manuel Pellegrini is good. The problem is there's two opinionated people who have strong characters with a difference in opinion on one single subject.

"But it doesn't compromise anything we do going forward. We still have the same goal."

Top dog Root

Getty Images

England might have lost the second Test to Pakistan but they can boast having the number one batsman in the world in their line-up.

Joe Root is back above Steve Smith at the top of the International Cricket Council Test batting rankings.

England's prolific number four - who with 1278 has made more Test runs than anyone this year - is ahead of Smith by just three ranking points from Smith.

Pakistan leg-spinner Yasir Shah took eight wickets in the second Test, a performance which has taken him above England seamers James Anderson and Stuart Broad into second place in the bowlers' rankings - behind only South Africa's Dale Steyn. 

FA Cup first round draw

And the remaining FA Cup first round ties...

Barwell or AFC Rushden & Diamonds v Grays Athletic or Welling, FC Halifax or Guiseley v Wycombe , Crawley Town v Luton Town, Doncaster Rovers v Stalybridge or North Ferriby United, Didcot Town v Exeter City, Dagenham & Redbridge v Morecambe, Leyton Orient v Staines Town, Gainsborough Trinity v Shrewsbury Town.

Maidstone United v Yeovil Town, Braintree Town v Oxford United, Whitehawk v Tranmere Rovers or Lincoln City, Accrington Stanley v York City, Scunthorpe United v Southend United, AFC Wimbledon v Forest Green Rovers, Plymouth Argyle v Carlisle United, FC United of Manchester v Chesterfield, Rochdale AFC v Swindon Town, Wealdstone v Colchester United.

FA Cup first round draw

Thirty-two non-league sides join 48 league clubs in the FA Cup first round, with ties beginning on Friday, 6 November.

Here's the draw in full (part one):

Burton Albion v Peterborough United, Port Vale v Maidenhead United, Barnet v Blackpool, Bristol Rovers v Chesham United, Cambridge United v Basingstoke Town, Mansfield Town v Oldham Athletic, Altrincham v Barnsley, Crewe Alexandra v Eastleigh, Northwich Victoria or Chorley v Boreham Wood, Coventry City v Northampton Town.

Brackley Town v Newport County AFC, Grimsby Town v St Albans City, Hartlepool United v Havant and Waterlooville or Cheltenham Town, Salford City v Notts County, Dover Athletic v Stourbridge, Stevenage v Gillingham, Millwall v AFC Fylde, Aldershot Town v Bradford City, Walsall v Fleetwood Town, Bury v Wigan Athletic, Portsmouth v Macclesfield Town, Sheffield United v Worcester City.

Didcot's plum draw

The draw for the first round of the FA Cup - always an exciting moment for fans of lower-league teams - was made live on the BBC.

Didcot, the lowest-ranked team in the FA Cup, will play League Two's Exeter City at home in the first round proper.

The Oxfordshire outfit play in the Southern Division One South & West, the eighth tier of English football.

Wigan, who won the cup in 2013 - pictured below - travel to fellow League One side Bury while 2008 winners Portsmouth will host Macclesfield Town.  

Getty Images

'Nasty lies'

Getty Images

Fifa presidential candidate Sheikh Salman has hit out at "nasty lies" over his time as head of the Bahrain Football Association.

He has been accused by Bahraini human rights groups of complicity in the detention and torture of footballers and other athletes.

"I cannot deny something that I haven't done," the 49-year-old told BBC Sport.

"Such accusations are not just damaging, it's really hurting. Some people have agenda on their table."

Guardiola in the frame

Getty Images

Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola is the overwhelming favourite to replace Jose Mourinho if he is sacked by Chelsea, report The Sun.

However, The Times claims Roman Abramovich could well be frustrated in his pursuit of Guardiola, who is believed to be open to the possibility of extending his current deal with the German champions beyond this season.

Mourinho's future on the line

Getty Images

As you might not be too surprised to learn, Jose Mourinho's future again dominates the headlines in the morning papers.

The Mirror claims the manager is on the brink of leaving Chelsea with his senior players believing it is a case of 'when not if' the manager is sacked.

The club have started to discuss the possibility of sacking the 52-year-old, says ESPN,  but are mindful that his departure would cost £30m.

Meanwhile, the Independent claims Mourinho's representatives are already investigating a move to Paris St-Germain or a return to Inter Milan if he is dismissed.

What's coming up

Four League Cup games later on Tuesday, with four more on Wednesday.

Here's what you've got to look forward to...

1

We'll have live text coverage of them all on the BBC website. The build-up to the games will be here on Sportsday, throughout the day.

Tuesday's papers

The Guardian

Tuesday's papers

The Times

Tuesday's papers

The Mirror

Tuesday's papers

Daily Mail

Tuesday's papers

Daily Telegraph

Tuesday's papers

The Sun

Pressure's on

So, your team is in serious trouble and some say your job is hanging by a thread.

What's the last thing you need? A Tuesday night trip to a cold and damp Stoke City is up there.

Getty Images

All eyes will be on Jose Mourinho and Chelsea ahead of tonight's League Cup encounter. We'll bring you the build-up to that and the rest of the football action, and the rest of the day's breaking news.

It's Sportsday, first a gander at the papers...