Sportsday - rolling football news

1. Chelsea and Arsenal in Champions League action tonight
2. Andy Murray into third round at Paris Masters
3. Gareth Bale not included in Wales squad to play the Netherlands
4. Chris Powell sacked as Huddersfield manager
5. Get involved: What would you ban from your club? #BBCSportsday

Goodbye

That's the end of today's edition of Sportsday. If  you want to hear more Champions League chat, join our colleague Tom Rostance for live coverage of some tasty European matches. 

Click here for live coverage of Arsenal v Bayern Munich and Chelsea versus Dynamo Kiev. Thanks for joining us. Until tomorrow...

Arsenal up against it

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger must decide whether to include Joel Campbell in his team's Champions League tie against Bayern Munich after the Costa Rican scored in his first Premier League start, against Swansea on Saturday.

Arsenal's win against Bayern in the reverse fixture was the German champions' only defeat over 90 minutes in 21 competitive games this season.

It was badly needed by an Arsenal side who are attempting to become the first team since Galatasaray in 2012-13 to reach the knockout stages after losing their first two group games, following defeats by Dinamo Zagreb and Olympiakos.

Getty Images

Munich will be wounded - Mertesacker

Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker says Arsenal will face a "wounded" Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday after beating the German side two weeks ago.

"We were the first team to really challenge them and beat them," said Mertesacker of Arsenal's home 2-0 win.

"They will want to prove that they are better than us."

Getty Images

Galaxy rule out Gerrard Liverpool return

Steven Gerrard will not be returning to play for Liverpool, insist his Major League Soccer side Los Angeles Galaxy.

Liverpool have confirmed that Gerrard has been offered the chance to train with them during the MLS off-season.

Galaxy say Gerrard will return to LA for pre-season training in January.

Getty Images

Gerrard can train with Liverpool - Klopp

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp answers questions on the prospect of former captain Steven Gerrard returning to the club to train during the MLS off season.   

"All I can say is that I've had contact with Stevie - one phone call and a few messages," said the German of the LA Galaxy midfielder. 

"He is a legend. If he's in Liverpool and wants to train ahead of next season in LA that's absolutely no problem. Nothing else."

Getty Images

Klopp has full-strength squad

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has picked a full-strength squad for the Europa League tie at Rubin Kazan.

Striker Christian Benteke, who has made three substitute appearances since returning from injury, is included.

Youngsters Pedro Chirivella, Cameron Brannagan and back-up goalkeeper Ryan Fulton have also travelled to Russia.

Midfielder Joao Teixeira is ineligible and defender Connor Randall, who made his senior debut against Bournemouth last week, has not travelled.

Getty Images

'Liverpool confident after Chelsea win'

Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet says "confidence is high" among the squad after Saturday's 3-1 victory over Chelsea. 

The Reds face Rubin Kazan in the Europa League on Thursday and Mignolet said: "As a footballer you always want to play in big games and it's a big game versus Kazan. We want the three points. We will try to achieve that."

Getty Images

Brilliant century for Pietersen

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has hit a brilliant hundred for the Sunfoil Dolphins in the Ram Slam T20 in South Africa. 

Pietersen made 115 off just 66 balls, hitting five fours and 10 sixes in a team total of 174 for six. 

Since his England career was ended after last year's Ashes series, the 35-year-old has embarked on a career as a freelance T20 batsman, with the Dolphins the latest franchise he has signed up for.

Getty Images

Sinfield hails 'fantastic' Burgess

Getty Images

Former England rugby league captain Kevin Sinfield believes Sam Burgess will prove what a "fantastic" player he is, whether he stays in union or returns to the 13-a-side code.

Sinfield, 34, recently ended a glittering career with Leeds Rhinos in order to switch to union with the city's Carnegie club.

"Other league players who made the switch, they all take differing times," he said. "Me and Sam are very different, and I think he's done extremely well. To play in a World Cup after 12 months is remarkable, and Sam will do what's right for him."

Michu set to leave on a free

Swansea City are close to reaching agreement with striker Michu to terminate the Spaniard's contract, according to Wales Online.

Getty Images

Get involved #BBCSportsday

Jono: I would ban fans that only turn up when there is a big cup game or winning and heading for promotion.

Stephen Brown: Ban greedy American owners from completing leveraged takeovers.

Prashanth: Ban Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.. Only then an English team has a chance to win the CL.

Hunt for new defence coach

Getty Images

Ireland boss Joe Schmidt will struggle to replace "one of the best defence coaches in the world" in Les Kiss, according to Rory Best.

Best believes Ireland have a job on their hands to find Kiss' equal, with the popular Australian having taken over as rugby director at Ulster.

The Ireland hooker said: "I think it will be tough: if you're trying to replace like-for-like in terms of Les, for me he's one of the best defence coaches in the world."

Get involved #BBCSportsday

Olly Clements: As a Colchester fan, I would ban all other teams from scoring against. Maybe even ban other teams from using a goalkeeper.

Michael Reid: I would ban banners on planes. Money to burn idiots who attempt to force their opinions on others.

Charlie Fox: Would ban players waving imaginary cards, coloured boots and taking corners outside of the corner arc

Flat Wolves lacked energy - Jackett

Wolves boss Kenny Jackett says his side lacked creative energy in their 1-0 defeat on Tuesday by lowly Bristol City. 

Jackett even substituted top scorer Benik Afobe at half-time, in the hope that a new-look, more experienced strike pairing of Adam Le Fondre and Grant Holt might pay dividends. 

Getty Images

"It looked in the first half like we needed some support in terms of a second forward," Jackett told BBC WM. 

"But we didn't trouble their goalkeeper in either half. We never got going."

Townsend dropped after row with physio

Tottenham's Andros Townsend has been left out of Thursday's Europa League tie with Anderlecht after clashing with Spurs fitness coach Nathan Gardiner.

Townsend, 24, was an unused substitute in Monday's win over Aston Villa and was pictured pushing and arguing with Gardiner on the pitch after the game.

"He did not train with the group. He is not available to be selected," Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino said. "It's because of Monday. If you behave the wrong way you always need to pay."

Rex Features

'Super Serena' chases 'phone snatcher'

Here's a tip for anyone planning to grab Serena Williams's phone - don't bother.

The American, who has won 21 Grand Slam singles titles, will chase you down, and she will catch you. It was a lesson learnt by a man who took the 34-year-old's mobile phone while she was in a restaurant.

"Yesterday at dinner the craziest thing happened to me," the world number oneposted on her Facebook page, accompanied by a picture of herself as Superwoman.

Williams, who is taking the rest of the year off to recover from injuries, claimed the man "grabbed her phone and swiftly left".  

Getty Images

Cairns accused of 'pocketing money'

Former New Zealand cricket captain Chris Cairns pocketed more than a quarter of a million dollars in return for fixing matches, a London court heard today.

The all-rounder moved to Dubai in 2008 with his partner to work for a family in the rough diamond industry, a move he said was to build a career after retiring from the sport.

But a jury was told the real reason was much more sinister - that the businessmen were bankrolling his lavish lifestyle in payment for throwing games while playing in India.

They also paid for three other men - including two suspected of match-fixing - to try to involve them in the scams, it was alleged.

Cairns perjury trial at Southwark Crown Court continues.

Ferdinand offers support to Andy Cole

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has tweeted a message of support to Andy Cole after the ex-United striker revealed he is suffering with kidney failure.

Adams undergoes heart surgery

Getty Images

Tony Adams has undergone heart surgery in Azerbaijan - an operation the former England and Arsenal defender has said saved his life.

The 49-year-old is now the Azerbaijani club's director of football and recently went under the knife for a "severely blocked vein" after suffering acute chest pain.

"The brilliant surgeons did a fantastic job - as has been reiterated to me by my cardiologist in the UK," Adams said.

"I know full well that without their brilliance ... I would not be alive now. A minor heart operation saved my life."

Choose the Goal of the Month music

Want to help choose the soundtrack to October's Goal of the Month? Well, here is your chance.

Match of the Day 2 has teamed up with BBC Radio 1's Greg James show to ask you to vote for the music to accompany this Sunday's Goal of the Month competition.

The three tracks below have been shortlisted - and you vote for your favourite one here.

The vote opens at 18:00 GMT and closes at 18:00 GMT on Thursday. So which of the following do you want to hear on Sunday night?

• KDA - Turn The Music Louder (Rumble)
• Matrix & Futurebound - Happy Alone
• The Sherlocks - Heart Of Gold

The winning track will be announced on Greg's show on Thursday (Radio 1, 16:00-19:00 BST), after the vote has closed.

The shortlisted goals, plus your choice of soundtrack, will be shown on Match of the Day 2 on Sunday on BBC One at 22:30 BST (23:25 in Scotland).

Cole suffering from kidney failure

Getty Images

Former England and Manchester United striker Andy Cole has withdrawn from a Unicef Match for Children at Old Trafford on 14 November because he is suffering from kidney failure.

In a statement released a few minutes ago, Cole said: "In June of this year I suffered kidney failure, caused as a result of contracting an airborne virus and I have been under medical care since.

"During this time I have been unable to work or to carry out my normal day to day activities and I am under close supervision from the renal team at the Manchester Royal Infirmary. I am on a course of medication including some very strong steroids which has led to the change in my appearance.

"However, the good news is that I am feeling better as each day passes and the consultant is hopeful that I will make a full recovery by next spring."

Fox-Pitt recovery will 'take time'

Getty Images

A statement about the progress of William Fox-Pitt has been issued, which says his recovery is going to 'take time'.

The 46-year-old was placed in an induced coma after the fall in the World Young Horse Championships on 17 October.

A statement released today reads: "William continues to make steady progress, and his recovery is going to take time.  He remains in hospital in France.

"Once again the family are hugely grateful to the team who are looking after him, and also to everyone who has sent messages of support."

Nadal makes progress in Paris

Rafael Nadal is through to the third round of the Paris Masters after beating Lukas Rosol, a man who once beat him at Wimbledon, 6-2 6-2. The Spaniard, seeded seventh, needed just an hour to see off the Czech. 

Getty Images

Neutral territory

Cycling to be moved to save money

After months of negotiations, cycling's governing body is close to a final agreement with Olympic organizers on their proposal to move cycling events at the 2020 Tokyo Games to a venue outside the capital to save money.

UCI President Brian Cookson told reporters: "I'm optimistic we will have a solution within the next couple of weeks."

McIlroy gives fan his driver

How about this for generosity from the world's number three golfer?

'Van Nistelrooy fell out with Ronaldo'

Ruud van Nistelrooy was sold by Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson after he kicked Cristiano Ronaldo out of frustration in  training, Spanish journalist Guillem Balague has revealed.

Van Nistelrooy left Old Trafford after weeks of speculation that he had fallen out with Ferguson, but Balague says in his new book that the Dutchman had a training ground bust-up with Ronaldo before being eventually sold to Real Madrid in 2006.

“‘I can’t play with this guy. He doesn’t even cross the ball,” Van Nistelrooy would often shout in training,’ Balague writes in a Telegraph serialisation of his book.

Getty Images

Looks a bit dangerous...

You can always count on Lewis Hamilton for an entertaining picture...

Ban needed?

Getting shirty

Twitter

"Why do "half-and-half" shirts offend so many footy fans?

If there's one subject guaranteed to divide the global public, it's the beautiful game.

But if you look at social media chatter, an emerging trend seems to be uniting thousands of football fans: a shared animosity to the emergence of the "half-and-half" football shirt."

So starts a rather nice feature on the BBC News website that takes a look at this new, curious trend. You can read it here.

Williams risked 'stress fracture'

Getty Images

Serena Williams' coach Patrick Mouratoglou has revealed the world number one's premature end to the season is because she risked a career-ending stress fracture if she had played on with her knee injury.

Williams called time on her 2015 campaign five weeks ago, saying she needed to give her body time to recover.

"It's no secret I've played injured most of the year - whether it was my elbow, my knee," the American said.

Mouratoglou has now clarified the issue, saying: "The cartilage is not gone, not all of it, but a big part. She has bone bruises and, if you keep on playing with this for too long, the next step is a stress fracture."

Townsend dropped from first team squad

Getty Images

Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has banished Andros Townsend from the first team after the winger clashed with a club fitness coach.

Townsend was pictured pushing and arguing with Spurs trainer Nathan Gardiner on the pitch at White Hart Lane following the team's 3-1 win over Aston Villa. 

"He did not train with the group. He is not available to be selected tomorrow, he is not in the squad," Pochettino said.

"It's because of Monday. When you behave in the wrong way you always need to pay. It's always my decision when he is available again to be part of the squad."

Good night for Jesus

Navas, who helped City win 3-1 away at Sevilla to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League, spent 10 years at the Spanish club before moving to England in 2013.

On this day...

Getty Images

Le Tissier went on to play 456 games for Southampton, scoring 161 goals. Not bad going really.

Hasselbaink backs wider international break

Burton Albion boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes all Football League games should be cancelled during international breaks.

Their match against Millwall on 14 November has been called off because the London club are likely to have three players on international duty that weekend.

"If the big teams stop, then we should all stop," the Dutchman told BBC Radio Derby. "The Premier League and the Championship are all stopping, so make us part of that as well."

From house-bound to house-hold name?

On Saturday Max Whitlock became the first the first British man to win a world gymnastics title when he secured pommel horse gold at the World Championships, ending a nation's 112-year wait for gold.

The 22-year-old has been talking to the BBC about coming back from glandular fever to making history. 

"It was over a three-month period and I went from feeling the fittest I've ever been, making my routines, to slowly deteriorating. I'd struggle to do anything over 30 seconds long," says Whitlock. 

To read more from Britain's most successful male gymnast click here. 

Getty Images

Game, set and match

Andy Murray has made serene progress at the Paris Masters, beating teenager Borna Coric 6-1 6-2 to reach the third round. 

The British number one, the second seed, will next play Belgium's David Goffin. 

Get involved #BBCSportsday

Haydon Spenceley: I'd ban anyone who didn't have the interests of the community their club represents at heart.

Colm: Would ban celebrating getting and scoring penalties as so many come from cheating.

Nikhil Jadva: Ban Fellaini. Route one is boring.

Getty Images

Lorenzo blocked from Rossi appeal

Getty Images

Jorge Lorenzo has been told he cannot take part in MotoGP championship leader Valentino Rossi's Court of Arbitration for Sport hearing into a grid penalty imposed for the season's final race.

Rossi, who leads Lorenzo by seven points, was adjudged to have kicked Honda's reigning champion Marc Marquez off his bike in Malaysia last week.

He was demoted to the back of the grid for Sunday's race in Spain.

Lorenzo asked to participate in the appeal but was denied.

Full story here.

Bedene out of Paris Masters

While Andy Murray seems to be cruising in the second round of the Paris Masters, his compatriot - British number two Aljaz Bedene has been beaten. 

The qualifier has lost 6-3 7-6 (7-3) to 13th seed John Isner, who came back from a break down in the second to secure victory and progress to the third round. 

You can listen to live coverage of Murray's match with Croatian Borna Coric by clicking the live coverage tab at the top of this page. 

Getty Images

All Blacks' homecoming

New Zealand have touched down on home soil after their Rugby World Cup triumph. The All Blacks, the first country to secure back-to-back titles, received a fine reception from fans as they showed off the Webb Ellis trophy. If you're in the mood to party, head to New Zealand. 

Getty Images

Getty Images

Fabulous Women Football

Good news. BBC Asian Network will be broadcasting their Fabulous Women Football special today between 15:30 GMT and 16:30 GMT on the Noreen Khan Show. 

The programme, which is about Asian females in football, is well worth a listen. 

Murray in control

Andy Murray has won the first set of his second-round match against Borna Coric 6-1. Easy peasy. The second seed needed just 27 minutes to take a first-set lead against the Croatian teenager. 

You can listen to live coverage of the match by pressing the 'live coverage' tab on the top of this page. 

Getty Images

Anderson confident of victory

James Anderson remains confident England can go for victory in the third Test against Pakistan in Sharjah despite losing two early wickets as they chase atarget of 284. 

England finished on 46 for two after Moeen Ali went for 22 and Ian Bell was out for a duck, with Shoaib Malik taking both wickets. 

That has already complicated England's attempts to complete what would be a record run chase in Asia, 75 higher than their best yet in Bangladesh six years ago. 

But Anderson told Sky Sports 2: "We've got a chance, definitely. We'll have to bat very well and it will be difficult on a fifth-day wicket against their spinners but we'll give it a good shot."

Getty Images

Sinfield ready for union bow

Kevin Sinfield says he is ready to play this weekend should Yorkshire Carnegie head coach Bryan Redpath select the former Leeds Rhinos captain in his squad to face Bedford in the Championship. 

The 35-year-old started training with Carnegie last week, less than three weeks after completing the treble with league side Rhinos. 

"It's very challenging and very different but hopefully it won't be too long before I get to have a run," he said. "I'd love to have a run this weekend but it may be a little too early yet. But if he (Redpath) was to offer me 20 minutes, I'd snap his hand off."

Getty Images

Kirsten joins England

Getty Images

Some extra meat on the bones to the story we bought you earlier.

Former South Africa opener, and India World Cup-winning coach, Gary Kirsten is to work with the England Lions in a consultancy role this winter.

Kirsten will join the Lions in the United Arab Emirates for their 50-over series against Pakistan A in January.

The 47-year-old's appointment follows similar ones by the ECB in the past two months, for Sri Lankan great Mahela Jayawardene and former New Zealand spinner Daniel Vettori.

"One of our primary objectives is to provide the England Lion players with experiences and opportunities that go above what they would get in domestic cricket," said Flower.

Get Involved #BBCSportsday

Dale Walker: Fans should not be allowed to boo their team, they should get behind their team, no matter if they win or lose.

Dave Cheevers: Selling tickets to tourists who aren't proper fans and are only there for a day out.

Leon Crascall: Ban ridiculous price tags for players that are not proven. Ban silly TV deals that are killing the quality of the Premier League.

Murray breaks Coric

British number one Andy Murray has started his second-round match against Croatia's Borna Coric in the Paris Masters and has already broken the teenager to take a 2-0 lead. 

You can listen to live BBC Radio 5 live sports extra coverage of that match by visiting the 'live coverage' tab on the top of this page. 

Getty Images

Liverpool Russia-bound

There's no doubt about it, a picture does not lie, Liverpool's players have flown to Russia for Thursday's Europa League tie against Rubin Kazan. 

The club has posted pictures on their Instagram account and among the travelling party were Philippe Coutinho, Christian Benteke and Roberto Firmino. 

Liverpool FC

Dons win like movie scene - Robinson

PA

MK Dons boss Karl Robinson says his side's reaction to beating Charlton on Tuesday evening was "almost like a scene from Platoon".

It was only their second win in 10 league games, and moved them four points clear of the Championship's bottom three.

"Everyone just hit the ground," Robinson told BBC Three Counties Radio. "I always say to the players don't leave anything on the field and they almost left their bodies on it."

Liverpool give Belgian teenager a trial

Liverpool have handed a trial to teenage Belgian goalkeeper Jonathan de Bie, according to the Daily Mail. 

The Belgium youth international began his career with Anderlecht but now plays for KV Mechelen Under 17s and U19s. 

The 15-year-old has been at Liverpool on a trial, taking part in a couple of games, and is likely to figure in another youth game later this week.

Getty Images

Son bonus for Spurs

Getty Images

Tottenham frontman Son Heung-min - out for a foot injury since he was injured in the Premier League win over Manchester City in September - is back in contention for Thursday's Europa League tie with Anderlecht.

In other team news, Nabil Bentaleb is training but not match fit, while Danny Rose is a doubt.

Brit Bedene loses first set

And that's the first set gone. Britain's Aljaz Bedene loses the first set against big-serving American John Isner 6-3. The 13th seed American is the favourite to progress at the expense of the British qualifier. 

Getty Images

Get Involved #BBCSportsday

Jay: I will ban spitting. It's baffling that a habit this disgusting is acceptable. Don't see tennis/squash/basketball players spit.

Lee Parkinson: I'd ban anyone less than a Billionaire from buying Leeds United.

Tommy: I'd ban us from selling our best players; only God knows where we'd be with Bale and Modric in midfield.

Getty Images

Holyfield back on the right road

Getty Images

"Last time you read about Evander Holyfield, chances are he seemed in a bad way. Maybe he was still dreaming of one last shot (he'll probably never stop). Maybe he was selling his 109-room mansion, all those hard-earned belts and his bloodied gloves and robes.

Well, I'm pleased to relay that 'The Real Deal' has some new deals in the offing, which might pay dividends. And he seems happy again."

So starts an excellent feature by Ben Dirs about the former world heavyweight champion.

Well worth a read, you'll find it here.

Bedene down in Paris

British number two Aljaz Bedene has fallen behind in the first set of his second-round match against John Isner in the Paris Masters. The American is leading 5-2 with the Briton serving to stay in the set. 

British number one Andy Murray has just started his second-round match against promising teenager Borna Coric.

Getty Images

Australian jockey falls to death in Singapore

Australia's racing community is mourning the death of young jockey Tim Bell who fell to his death from his high-rise apartment block in Singapore.

Bell, 22, was a rising star, having won the 2013-14 Brisbane Jockey's Premiership in his first senior season.

How he fell is unclear. One report says he was locked out and was trying to climb up to his 12th-floor property.

Missing runner found

A recovering heroin addict from Italy who went missing after finishing the New York Marathon has been found.

Gianclaudio Marengo was still in his running gear when he was found on the subway in Manhattan by an off-duty police officer on Tuesday.

The 30-year-old had last been seen in Central Park on Sunday shortly after finishing in four hours 44 minutes.

'Are you mad?' - Pietersen

Getty Images

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has derided the idea of day-night Test cricket, accusing administrators of "messing with the greatness" of the five-day game.

Australia and New Zealand will contest the first day-night Test under lights in Adelaide from 27 November to try out a concept designed to boost crowds.

Pietersen, 35, told the BBC World Service's Stumped he was "not a fan".

"Test cricket is the pinnacle. Wickets change at night," he said. "Who wants to see a new ball at certain grounds around the world at 8 o'clock at night under lights. Are you mad?"

Uphill battle

Getty Images

Day four has come to an end in a sun-soaked United Arab Emirates.

England are 46-2 and facing an uphill battle tomorrow to score the 284 needed for victory against Pakistan and to level the series.

Still, on the upside, their best two batsman are at the crease - Alastair Cook (17 not out) and Joe Root (six).

Root survived a review towards the end and it was very tense stuff. More of the same tomorrow? You can bet you bottom dollar.

Play resumes at 06:00 GMT, with live text coverage here on the BBC Sport website.

Rory all poorly

Getty Images

Rory McIlroy remains hopeful of competing in the WGC-HSBC Champions event in Shanghai despite suffering from a severe bout of food poisoning.

The 26-year-old managed only a couple of practice swings before withdrawing from Wednesday's pro-am after eating a dodgy club sandwich.

"It wasn't good at all," the world number three told the European Tour website after his aborted pro-am attempt.

"I just had a piece of toast and a couple of bits of melon for breakfast and I came out thinking that I would just to try to hit a few more balls, but even after making a couple of swings my stomach was too sore even to attempt another shot."

Rooney marches on

Ramsey embraces "massive" QPR task

Getty Images

Queens Park Rangers head coach Chris Ramsey says he faces a "massive challenge" to turn the club into Championship promotion contenders.

The R's, who were relegated from the Premier League last season, have lost three of their last five games and are six points off the play-offs in 13th. 

"At the moment we are going through a little bit of a hard spell," Ramsey told BBC Radio London. 

"I am up for it. We need to ensure we keep doing what we believe in."

Blatter going up in flames

Getty Images

A giant effigy of suspended Fifa president Sepp Blatter will be torched this weekend as part of a town's bonfire night celebrations.

The 36-foot tall effigy of the outgoing Swiss head of world football's governing body will go up in flames on Saturday in Edenbridge, south of London.

"Blatter was the obvious choice," said Edenbridge Bonfire Society co-ordinator Charles Laver. "We started building it two weeks ago, and we are pleased with the result."

Coleman blames Arsenal for Ramsey injury

Getty Images

Chris Coleman is an angry man today. He also says that Aaron Ramsey's hamstring injury, which will keep him out for a month, is Arsenal's fault.

"If Wenger has a problem with me or my selection, I’ll gladly drive to Arsenal’s training ground," adds Wales boss Coleman.

"I wouldn’t normally speak publically, but I’m paying him the respect that he paid me, which is not a lot. I’m not going to sit back and let someone put the blame on us.

"Aaron played against Watford for 90 minutes on the Saturday (after the Andorra match) then played three days later versus Bayern Munich and after 70 minutes they are 3-0 up. So they could have taken him off. It's not in our interest to upset people or gamble and we never did that with Aaron Ramsey."

And now Bell too...

Oops. It's all going badly wrong.

Ian Bell has just been clean bowled by Malik for a six-ball duck.

34-2. 250 needed for victory. Joe Root, your country needs you.

Moeen trapped

Getty Images

Disaster. Just when England seemed to be sauntering along rather nicely in their bid to knock off 284 runs and win the third and final Test against Pakistan, Moeen Ali is out lbw.

It leaves England 34-1 - and they've since had a big let-off too, skipper Alastair Cook surviving a review.

Ian Bell is in, the target looks a long way away.

Live text commentary here.

IAAF latest

If you missed the news we bought you at 12:22, Lamine Diack, the former head of the IAAF, is being investigated over allegations he took payments for deferring sanctions against Russian drugs cheats.

French prosecutors suspect Senegalese Diack, 82, of receiving money in 2011.

Get Involved #BBCSportsday

Darren: Sturridge getting injured at LFC, because we would dominate.

Matt Francis: Free transfers at Ipswich.

Andrew Neill: Definitely injuries at Newcastle United. The refusal to sign players over the age of 25 might also be tempting....

Getty Images

Kirsten to team up with England

No warning over Ramsey injury - Coleman

More from Wales boss Chris Coleman on Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

Coleman is annoyed over comments Wenger made suggesting Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale picked up injuries because of international commitments.

"If I have no phone call from the manager and my medical team has not been contacted by that club then it's a green light to play him. There was no correspondence with Arsene Wenger," said Coleman.

"He called (England boss) Roy Hodgson to warn him about Theo Walcott but he didn't call me. All he had to do is say 'be careful' and that's what I would've done."

Wenger comment a 'cheap shot' - Coleman

Getty Images

We have just heard from Wales manager Chris Coleman in an emotional news conference and it's fair to say he is not happy with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

It comes after the Gunners boss said both Aaron Ramsey and Real Madrid's Gareth Bale should not have played against Andorra as they picked up injuries not long after that match.

But Coleman says: "If Arsene Wenger had a problem with my selection then call me. This job is hard enough as it is without a cheap shot, which is exactly what it was. 

"He didn't have to comment on Gareth Bale. It has nothing to do with Arsenal."

Diack questioned

Getty Images

Former IAAF president Lamine Diack has been questioned by French police investigating allegations of corruption involving a cover-up of doping by Russian athletes.

Officers visited the headquarters of international athletics in Monaco and took documents, a statement from the IAAF confirmed.

Diack, his adviser Habib Cisse and anti-doping director Gabriel Dolle have all been formally interviewed, sources with knowledge of the investigation have confirmed.

Question time

A Question of Sport Teaser

Today's teaser for you to have a bash at... Which four of Australia's Test team to face New Zealand tonight played the last time they met in December 2011?

Answers later this afternoon.

Vieira to the Big Apple?

Getty Images

Former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira - now youth team boss at Manchester City - is in contention to take over as New York City head coach, after the MLS side sacked Jason Kreis, claims the Daily Star.

Gray signs, then becomes captain

Jonny Gray has been handed the Glasgow captaincy - hours after signing a new three-year contract.

Warriors have confirmed the 21-year-old will succeed Al Kellock, who retired at the end of their Guinness Pro12 title-winning campaign.

Get Involved #BBCSportsday

The Footy Coach: We think that all clubs should ban half & half shirts (& scarves)! And grown men wearing full kits...

Snafu: I'd ban Steven Gerrard's comeback tour and his sure-to-follow second farewell tour, move on Liverpool.

Jack Grant: I'd ban long distance mid-week fixtures. Plymouth vs Carlisle on a Tuesday night, who does that benefit?

Getty Images

Gunners to say goodbye

Getty Images

Arsenal will not give new contracts to midfielders Tomas Rosicky, Mathieu Flamini, and Mikel Arteta when their deals expire at the end of the season, reports the London Evening Standard.

Lennon will not quit Bolton job

PA

Bolton manager Neil Lennon insists hewill not leave the clubdespite a run of nine games without a win.

The Trotters, beaten 2-0 by Ipswich on Tuesday, are third from bottom in the Championship and have only scored 10 league goals this season.

"I'll never quit. I'm here to fight it out, if the people at the club or the fans want a change, that's something I can't control," the former Celtic boss told BBC Radio Manchester.

'One in five chance'

Wolff retires

Williams test driver Susie Wolff believes it is time to move on as the Scot announces her retirement from motorsport.

Wolff, the first woman to take part in a grand prix weekend for more than 20 years, told BBC Breakfast her dream of racing in Formula 1 was never going to come true.

The 32-year-old hopes she can inspire the next generation and believes women can compete at the highest level in the sport.

And now you can watch the interview with Susie from BBC Breakfast here.

BBC

Murray on soon

Get Involved #BBCSportsday

Kieran Lynch: I'd ban players from surrounding the referee after a decision, it's disgraceful.

Nick Frost: At Chelsea I would ban excuses. They have the quality to do it. The referee only has so much influence Jose.

Ged Lynam: Autobiographies. No player or manager should be allowed to release one until they have retired. They're just irritating.

Getty Images

All over...

Getty Images

Pakistan are all out, at last.

Stuart Broad destroyed the wickets with a superb bit of swing bowling at pace to remove Asad Shafiq for 46, then Riaz was run out by Ian Bell.

Pakistan are 355 all out. Just the 284 runs for England to get to win then. What can possibly go wrong?

Live text commentary here.

Habana for the Olympics?

Getty Images

South African rugby player Bryan Habana is in contention to play at the Olympics after being included in the national sevens squad for the 2015-16 season.

Rugby sevens is making its debut at the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. 

Full-strength

Getty Images

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has travelled to Russia with a full-strength squad for the Europa League tie against Rubin Kazan.

Striker Christian Benteke, a goalscoring substitute in the 3-1 win at Chelsea on Saturday, is in the party along with all the others who were involved in the victory at Stamford Bridge.

Youngsters Pedro Chirivella, Cameron Brannagan and back-up goalkeeper Ryan Fulton are included but midfielder Joao Teixeira is ineligible and defender Connor Randall, who made his debut against Bournemouth in the Capital One Cup last week, has not travelled.

Ref locked in dressing room overnight

Trabzonspor president Ibrahim Ethem Haciosmanoglu and several members of his board have been given lengthy bans after a referee was locked in his dressing room at their stadium.

Haciosmanoglu was angered by match official Cagatay Sahan's decision not to award his team a penalty in a recent game and ordered Sahan and his assistants to be locked in overnight.

Getty Images

They were released when Turkey's president Recep Tayyip Erdogan reportedly intervened.

"I told stadium security not to let the referees leave until the morning, until I arrived, but a very important person called me and asked me not to cause embarrassment in Turkey and around the world," Haciosmanoglu said.

The Turkish Football Federation has banned Haciosmanoglu from carrying out his official functions for 280 days and fined him 150,000 Turkish lira (£34,250).

Get Involved #BBCSportsday

Tom Guy: I'd ban anyone from taking a short corner, they don't half get on my nerves.

Lee Clark: I'd ban the the fickle Chelsea fans that want Mourinho sacked.

Jack A. Swindlehurst: Lengthy Thursday night Europa trips followed by tired Sunday performances, culminating in another fifth-placed finish.

Keep the comments coming in to us, using the hashtag #BBCSportsday.

Getty Images

Behind bars

One of the more unusual sights at the Pakistan-England Test.

Play has resumed after tea, by the way, with Pakistan advancing to 341-8.

A worryingly big run chase for England beckons.

Khan v Pacquiao on?

Amir Khanhas agreed in principle a lucrative welterweight fight with former sparring partnerManny Pacquiaonext year, according to PA Sport.

PA say a source close to Khan has confirmed the fight will go ahead, most likely in LA in April next year.

Getty Images

Earlier Daily Mail boxing writer Jeff Powell told BBC Radio 5 live: "As far as the Khans are concerned it is a done deal. I had a long chat with Amir’s father Shah and he says he has agreed the deal in every detail, accepted all the terms and conditions, sent off the paperwork and are expecting to get their end of the contract from Pacquiao’s camp next week."

Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum had earlier denied the story but Powell said: “I think Bob  is stalling a bit to see if they can tempt Floyd Mayweather out of retirement, but he has indicated that he won’t."

Bale not in Wales squad

That Wales squad in full...

Wayne Hennessey (Crystal Palace), Daniel Ward (Liverpool), Owain Fôn Williams (Inverness Caledonian Thistle)

Ashley Williams (Swansea), James Chester (West Brom), James Collins (West Ham), Ben Davies (Tottenham), Chris Gunter (Reading), Neil Taylor (Swansea), Adam Henley (Blackburn), Paul Dummett (Newcastle).

Joe Ledley (Crystal Palace), Joe Allen (Liverpool), David Vaughan (Nottm Forest), Emyr Huws (Wigan), Jonathan Williams (Crystal Palace), Andy King (Leicester), David Edwards (Wolves), David Cotterill (Birmingham).

Tom Lawrence (Leicester), Tom Bradshaw (Walsall), Simon Church MK Dons), Sam Vokes (Burnley).

The game against the Netherlands takes place at the Cardiff City Stadium on Friday, 13 November (19:45 GMT)

Bale not in Wales squad

Getty Images

Real Madrid's Gareth Bale will not be in Wales' squad for the friendly against the Netherlands on 13 November.

The 26-year-old had been expected to be named by manager Chris Coleman, but following conversations with his club he has not been selected.

The forward has played only 45 minutes for the Spanish giants since 13 October because of a calf injury.

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey will also miss the match in Cardiff (19:45 GMT kick-off) with a hamstring problem.

Gerrard 'only training' ... at this stage

Getty Images

Remember the Steven Gerrard story from earlier, about the Reds former skipper returning to the club?

Well, according to Reuters, Liverpool fans shouldn't get too excited just yet.

Gerrard - now an LA Galaxy player - has been invited to train at the club during the American close-season.

But there have been no discussions about a playing contract, according to sources close to manager Juergen Klopp.

Still, no smoke without fire, as they say...

Powell sacking signals 'change of direction'

Some more on the news that ex-England international Chris Powell has lost his job as manager of Championship side Huddersfield Town.

“We have decided to make this change after very careful deliberation," said club chief executive Nigel Clibbens.

"This decision is made with the long term interests of the club in mind and signals a change of direction and a new approach.

“Chris leaves us well placed for the future challenges ahead. With his skills and qualities as a person, it won’t be too long before he finds a new challenge and we wish him success when that comes."

BBC

Time for tea

Getty Images

It's tea at the Test, and there's been a wicket just before the teams depart the pitch.

Yasir Shah departs for four, caught by Stuart Broad off the bowling of Adil Rashid. That's Rashid's first wicket of the innings - and it seems not everyone is impressed with him and England's two other spin merchants, Patel and Moeen.

Pakistan are 319-8, leading by what is now looking like a whopping 247 runs.

McNamara named York boss

York City have named former Dundee United boss Jackie McNamara as their new manager, succeeding Russ Wilcox.

BreakingPowell sacked as Huddersfield boss

Huddersfield Town have sacked boss Chris Powell after just three league wins this season.

BBC Radio Leeds understands that the former England full-back has lost his job for failing to meet the board's objectives.

The 46-year-old former Charlton boss was appointed Terriers manager in September 2014 and guided them to safety in the Championship last season.

However, Tuesday's 2-2 draw at Reading saw them drop to 18th in the table.

Getty Images

Patel strikes

Another wicket has fallen at the cricket, Sarfraz Ahmed snared by Samit Patel.

Pakistan are 317-7 with England facing a big run chase to win the test and avoid defeat in the series.

Live text commentary here.

Murphy on Graveney

Getty Images

As you will no doubt be aware, former England cricketer Tom Graveney has died at the age of 88. An elegant batsman, Graveney played 79 Tests for England, scoring 11 centuries at an average of 44.38.

Paying tribute on BBC Radio 5 live, cricket reporter Pat Murphy said: "He always had time for people, and that sums up Tom Graveney as a batsman. Think of David Gower or Ian Bell."

You can listen to the clip here.

Get involved #bbcsportsday

Our first debate today is what would you ban from your club and why?

Here are some of your comments...

Nathan Owen: I'd ban brightly coloured football boots at Sunday league matches. Classic plain black ones or you can't play...

OUSMAN MANNEH: I would ban Van Gaal from mentioning these three words: Philosophy, Possession and Process.

FK: I would ban injuries at Arsenal, it's obviously become an addiction.

Getty Images

Tough task for England

Follow all the latest news with our live text commentary.

Pakistan are currently on 304-6 in their second innings, a lead of 232 and counting over England.

Monaco want Mourinho

Getty Images

Monaco have had a £35m bid for Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho rejected by Blues owner Roman Abramovich, reports the Daily Mail.

The paper adds that Abramovich could be interested if the offer is doubled.  

Nice view

For those confused, Tendulkar and Australia's Shane Warne are teaming up in a quest to help cricket conquer America.

Warne's Warriors and Sachin's Blasters will contest three All-Star matches at baseball stadiums in New York, Houston and Los Angeles in November.

Want to know more? There's a nice clip from a new cricket show on the BBC World Service, called Stumped.

Three-week ban

Getty Images

Wasps fly-half Jimmy Gopperth has been handed a three-week ban after pleading guilty to striking Leicester's Mathew Tait on Sunday. 

Gopperth was sent to the sin-bin in the second half after colliding with Tigers back Tait in mid-air as they attempted to catch a kick. 

Rangers post another loss

Getty Images

Rangers made a loss of £7.5m last season, according to their annual accounts.

The figures are a slight improvement on the previous campaign, when the club lost £8.1m. 

'It is better we identify this insincerity now'

There's this story on the BBC website now.

Leeds United latest

Club chairman Cellino announced on Friday that he was willing to agree a takeover with supporters and forgo any profit.

Leeds Fans United had been hoping to buy the club for £30m.

Rooney, by a head

Photo of the night from Old Trafford, a lovely shot of Wayne Rooney's goal.

Don't think much of the defending though.

Getty Images

GB team announced

Nick Hope

BBC Sport, Olympic Sport reporter

"David Florence (C1 & C2), Richard Hounslow (C2), Fiona Pennie (K1) and Joe Clarke (K1) have been selected for the Rio 2016 Olympic Team GB slalom canoe squad."

Getty Images

C1 world championFlorence, who won an Olympic silver medal at Beijing 2008, will compete individually in that event again. He will also team up with Hounslow, with whom he claimed C2 London 2012 silver alongside, in Rio.

Pennie, a world team silver medallist earlier this year, is Britain’s sole entrant for the women’s K1 event, while Clarkewill make his Olympic debut in the men’s competition.

Jockey dies in apartment fall

A promising Australian jockey has died in Singapore after falling from his high-rise apartment block in an apparent accident, according to the AFP news agency.

Details about the incident - in which 22-year-old Tim Bell died - remain sketchy and police are still investigating.

"But from unconfirmed reports it appears that Bell, 22, locked himself out from his unit, and fell to his death after attempting to climb up to the 12th storey apartment to get his house keys," said a statement released by the Singapore Turf Club.

'They want to destroy Mourinho'

Getty Images

Spanish football journalist Begona Perez has been speaking on BBC Radio 5 live about the similarities between Jose Mourinho's problems at Chelsea and his time at Real Madrid. 

She said: "There are too many rumours - it reminds me of Mourinho's last few months at Madrid where there were leaking stories every day.

"There must be interest [in the stories] and someone is leaking those stories because they want to destroy Mourinho."

Listen to the full clip here.

Bell completes century

Important breakthrough

Getty Images

A big wicket at the cricket - we'll stop rhyming now - where Moeen  has bagged the wicket of Mohammad Hafeez, though not before the Pakistan batsman had smashed 151 runs.

Hafeez advanced down the track and attempted to smash Moeen for six, but only succeeded in lofting the ball straight into Ian Bell's hands on the boundary rope.

Pakistan are six down, on 257, with a lead of 185.

England are back in the game, but need more quick wickets to avoid having a large total to chase.

Live text commentary here.

Get Involved

Thanks for that Remi, for you have provided the inspiration for today's talking point.

It's the question we are throwing out to you, our lovely readers, today... What would you ban from your club and why?

Maybe it's a centre forward you don't like, or maybe - if you're a United fan - you'd ban Louis van Gaal's tactics?

Let us know now, at #bbcsportsday or by posting a message on the BBC Match of the Day Facebook page.

Speak English

Getty Images

New Aston Villa manager Remi Garde has banned the speaking of French at the club - despite the club signing four players from Ligue 1 in the summer.

"The new players have to learn English quickly. I don't want anybody speaking French in the dressing room," said Garde, who has replaced Tim Sherwood.

"It is very important we understand each other and it's also important that the English players speak slowly sometimes at the beginning. Everyone has to make an effort."

Villa have won just once this season - on the opening day against Bournemouth - and suffered seven straight defeats. They lie bottom of the Premier League table with four points from 11 games. 

Wolff retires

And some nice words from deputy team principal, Claire Williams, on Twitter.

Van Gaal substitution booed

Getty Images

It wasn't all sweetness and light during United's victory.

Manager Louis van Gaal acknowledged fans' unhappiness over his tactics - with the Dutchman's decision to replace Anthony Martial with Marouane Fellaini with the score at 0-0 drawing jeers from the Old Trafford crowd.

But Van Gaal insisted they supporters would not be upset after Tuesday's Champions League win over CSKA Moscow.

"I'm not deaf. That's the opinion of the fans but afterwards they shall not be disappointed," he said.

Rooney eases United's nerves

Getty Images

It was an equally decent night for Man United, who moved top of Group B courtesy of Wayne Rooney's late header.

But it was a nervy evening at Old Trafford, only an excellent David de Gea save and Chris Smalling's last-ditch block preventing Seydou Doumbia putting the visitors ahead a minute earlier.

Rooney's winner was his 237th United goal and moved him joint-second with Denis Law in the club's all-time goalscorers' list.

It was United's first goal in 404 minutes of football.

We're not booing ... honest

City were reported to Uefa after fans were heard booing the Champions League anthem against Sevilla last month.

The travelling fans - and full arks for comedy - held up these signs during the anthem last night.

Getty Images

Three and easy

Pellegrini's flawless record

City have struggled in the Champions League over the past four seasons, twice failing to escape the group stage under Roberto Mancini and scraping into the last 16 in each of Manuel Pellegrini's two campaigns.

But their victory in Spain maintained the Chilean's flawless record of reaching the knockout phase while managing City.

"It is important to be qualified two games before the end," said Pellegrini.

"Now we will still try to qualify in the first position of this group and if we continue playing in this way we will have more chances."

Getty Images

City cruise through

Getty Images

Is this Manchester City's year in the Champions league?

They certainly look more impressive than in seasons gone by, securing a place in the Champions League last 16 by tearing apart Group D rivals Sevilla with a blistering attacking display.

Raheem Sterling struck from a tight angle after eight minutes - and Fernandinho's header doubled City's lead just 170 seconds later.

Sevilla hit back through Benoit Tremoulinas' free header, but Wilfried Bony swept in for a 3-1 half-time lead.

City cruised through the second half to progress with two games to spare.

The results are in...

It was all about the Champions League last night. Here's what happened...

1

And here's what is in store tonight...

1

Murray on court soon

Getty Images

Something to watch out for in the next few hours - Andy Murray and Aljaz Bedene play their second round matches at the Paris Masters at about the same time, roughly 13:30 GMT.

Murray's up against the world's top teenager Borna Coric while Bedene plays John Isner.

Murray, however, didn't fare too well in the doubles...

Commentary on Murray will be on BBC Radio 5 live Sports Extra after the end of play at the Pakistan-England Test match.

Wolff retires

Andrew Benson

Chief F1 writer

Getty Images

Some breaking news this morning... Williams test driver Susie Wolff is to retire from motorsport.

The Scot - the first woman to take part in a grand prix weekend for more than 20 years - believes her aim of racing in Formula 1 "isn't going to happen".

"I got so close and I fought hard. But my gut feeling tells me it is time to move on to explore new challenges," Wolff, 32, said.

"As a sports person it is always difficult to know when to stop but for me this journey has come to an end."

Pakistan on top

Day four at the cricket is well under way and it's been a frustrating morning forEngland, with several chances going begging. All the while, of course, Pakistan - 72 behind after the first innings - are extending their lead.

Here's the state of play.

For more details,follow our live text commentary here.

Gerrard heading back to Merseyside?

Getty Images

The Independent says Steven Gerrard returns to England today after the end of his MLS season, where his LA Galaxy team missed out on a play-off place.

"He is expected to attend Liverpool’s home match with Crystal Palace on Sunday and should meet Klopp in person for the first time early next week when the pair will try and plot the way forward," the report adds.

Ooo, interesting stuff and one to definitely keep an eye on.

Gerrard heading back to Merseyside?

It is not even six months since Steven Gerrard left Liverpool to start a new life eating pancakes for breakfast and saying 'have a nice day'.

But apparently his new life in America might not last much longer - he could be on his way back to Anfield.

Getty Images

Or at least that's what the Independent is reporting, claiming Gerrard has spoken to new Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp "several times" in the last month.

"The manager is now convinced that Gerrard’s presence will help define the standards of professionalism he expects around Melwood, Liverpool’s training ground," adds the paper.

Wednesday's papers

Daily Star

Wednesday's papers

Daily Telegraph

Wednesday's papers

The Times

Wednesday's papers

The Mirror

Wednesday's papers

Guardian

Wednesday's papers

Independent

Wednesday's papers

The Sun

Wednesday's papers

Getty Images

Coming home?

City and United make the headlines today ... and this fella.

Getty Images

Steven Gerrard, could he be on his way back to Liverpool?

Plenty on that to come, plus all the rest of the day's sporting news.

Welcome to Sportsday, first the papers...