Premier League - as it happened

1. Toure's first league goal this season
2. FT: Liverpool 2-1 West Brom
3. FT: Hull 2-0 Palace, Leicester 2-2 Burnley
4. FT: Sun 3-1 Stoke, Swansea 2-2 Newcastle

It is a corking day of top-flight football tomorrow.

Manchester United will have their mettle tested by Everton in the lunchtime kick-off.

Then the focus switched south with Tottenham at home to Southampton and Cesc Fabregas and Chelsea taking on Arsenal. Both start at 14:05 BST.

West Ham v QPR? It is the fruit salad of desserts, but we'll take it.

See you there.

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

Former Wales international Robbie Savage: "Manchester City can't defend on the break. Stoke went through them. Totti ran through their defence in midweek. Chelsea, on the break, went through them with Schurrle. Chelsea can defend. It is easier to score against City than Chelsea. I also think Chelsea will score more goals."

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

Former Wales international Robbie Savage: "I think Chelsea will win the league this year by five or six points. Because last year they had the best defensive record and had the best record against all the top teams. This year they have added one of the best goalkeepers in the world and one of the best midfielders."

BBC

Two points off the top after seven games without really hitting warp-speed. Would City fans have taken that at the start of the season?

Or, with Chelsea in scintillating form and with a game in hand, might they have already ceded title-deciding ground?

Getty Images

Owen Hargreaves, Scott Sinclair , Javi Garcia, Jesus Navas - just some of the midfielders that have been brought to Manchester City since James Milner arrived from Villa.

The ever-dependable England man is still doing a job though. More than that in fact in recent weeks.

His good form continued against his old club. He created eight chances for City. David Silva was the next highest with three.

EPA

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini: "When we have just eight minutes to go you are a little worried but I trusted that one of those chances would be scored because we have important players to do that.

"The way we played was the most important thing for me, we had 70% possession, created chances and that is very encouraging.

"I have told the players that in May you are going to win or lose the Premier League by just a point or so, so every one you drop on the way makes it more difficult.

"It is very difficult to recover the points against a team like Chelsea and the only way to do it is to win every game."

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Tom, Manchester: Milner and Silva have been sublime today! All of Aguero's frustration from the missed chances all came flooding out in that celebration. Hopefully Yaya's goal gives him that confidence of last season back .

Manager reaction

Reuters

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert: "I thought it was a big effort from us, we defended strongly but they have quality all over the pitch and we were dead all over the pitch by the end.

"Gabriel Agbonlahor felt light-headed in the warm-up and it would have been too much to ask Christian Benteke to start.

"We were in that game for 82 minutes. We have played the top four in the league last season already, but we have come through it without any of them having beaten us badly."

PA

Manchester City goalscorer Yaya Toure speaking to Sky Sports: "It is a fantastic win and after the draw against Roma. Full credit to Villa for the way they played but in the second half we did the job. The most important thing for me is to try my best. I need to work harder and continue going and the most important thing for me and the team is to repeat what we did last year."

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BETH SMITH: I feel sorry for villa. Thought they would hold on. they played really well today until the last 10 mins

Tom Castle: Lambert's tactical change with 20 minutes remaining has cost Villa again. Repeat of Chelsea match.

IMMSY: An arsenal win could just restart the league from scratch after the international break

BBC

It is a five in seven for Sergio Aguero in the Premier League so far this season - level with Saido Berahino and Leonardo Ulloa, but three short of Diego Costa and his serious bout of goal incontinence.

BBC

Big numbers from City, who kept hammering away and hit goals just in time.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "It was very hard fought for City. To Villa's credit they had a game-plan which they stuck to rigidly and was hard for City to break down. But it is easier to break that down when you have special players. You feel the constant pressure and probing paid off and while it took time that is what happened and from the moment Toure scored the game was won."

FULL-TIME

Good things come to those that wait. City drink down three points as their patience is rewarded. An assignment completed in very professional style.

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There are large patches of light blue seats appearing at Villa Park as some of the home fans head off early to beat the traffic.

Four minutes of injury-time

"Keano, Keano, what's the score?" Manchester City fans ask the Aston Villa assistant for an update as we enter the first of four minutes of injury time.

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Hashim Albahbahani: City deserve the win, but the scoreline surely flatters them.

Akude Emeka O: Agueroooooooooo. Simply special. Fantastic strike.

Tunde Akere: AVFC lost against CFC, AFC and MCFC, conceding 7 goals.The difference between top teams and d so called small teams is massive

AFP

GOAL

Reuters

Start the car, this one is done and dusted. Sergio Aguero is picked out on the edge of the area by a zipped James Milner pass and does superbly to hold Nathan Baker and Philippe Senderos at bay and ping a shot into the far corner.

That is the Argentine's 81st goal for City in 131 games.

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QPR midfielder Joseph Barton:: Great finish from Yaya Toure. How good has David Silva been tonight? #exceptional

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

Lines are open for 606 with Darren Fletcher and Robbie Savage.

A listener has asked "Who will be the next Liverpool captain when Steven Gerrard retires?"

Savage believes Nathan Dyer and Wayne Routledge should be in the England squad if Andros Townsend is. Do you agree?

And what is your best/most bizarre story when travelling abroad to watch football? Get in touch, 0500 909 693, 85058 or @bbc606.

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Villa Park

"Yaya Toure has had his fair share of critics in the first few games of this season but the Manchester City fans who are very loudly singing his name following that vital goal do not appear to be among them. As well as joy, relief is the over-riding emotion among the travelling supporters - there had seemed just no way through that Villa defence."

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Aashish: Yaya just threw cake in his critics faces

Mufc Believer: Did City send in a birthday cake through a ball boy?

SUBSTITUTION

Manchester City were preparing to bring on Stevan Jovetic as an extra attacker in a late siege. But, after Yaya Toure's probable winner, they opt instead to bring on Jesus Navas for David Silva.

Wondering what the different Premier League managers made of today's action? Well, wonder no more. Videos are available at the top of this live text by hitting the 'highlights' tab. Enjoy.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "That is what Yaya Toure can do. It is out of nothing. Very few players can do what he has just done. He just guided past the diving right hand of Guzan. It is a special goal from a special player, who hasn't been looking special but when required can pull a team out of trouble."

Getty Images

GOAL

Aston Villa's concentration and organisation finally break down and it is Yaya Toure who punishes their lapse.

The Ivorian picks his way to the edge of the box and, with the Villa defenders on their heels, has time to curl a precise shot around Philippe Senderos and into the bottom corner past a despairing Brad Guzan.

Frank Lampard has a shot blocked, Yaya Toure sees a cross headed clear by Jack Grealish and it is beginning to feel like one of those days for City.

Eleven minutes to go.

PA

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "Villa are well-organised. They get 10 men behind the ball and slip into a back six easily and comfortably. The three in front harass and they are proving very difficult to break down."

BBC

Manchester City are clocking up possession and shots, but the goal column remains untouched.

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MBEHAN: Good open game but what has happened to Yaya Toure the word class midfielder average at best now

Naveed Afzal: As much as I want Man City to drop points how good is David Silva. Every touch has a purpose and some of those touches majestic

Philippe Senderos is suffering from a timely bit of cramp, limping back into position and giving Brad Guzan an excuse to delay over a free-kick.

GREAT SAVE!

A bullet header from Eliaquim Mangala is matched the cat-like reflexes of Brad Guzan who flies left to, not only get a hand to it, but hold onto it as well.

Villa have a little under 20 minutes to hang on. Or perhaps do even more...

SUBSTITUTION

Paul Lambert makes a double change to try and get his side off the ropes and back into the game.

Jack Grealish and Leandro Bacuna are on in place of Kieran Richardson and Charles N'Zogbia.

CLOSE!

Manchester City are peppering the Villa goal. David Silva opens his foot to steer James Milner's cross goalwards, but gets his angles askew, the ball sliding off his side-foot and wide.

Getty Images

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Stuart Barnes: Dare I say it, Tom Cleverley looks pretty decent in a Villa shirt.

Wale ibraheem: Paul Lambert of Villa is now more matured and intelligent. He knows when and which team to attack and when to be aggressive.

James Cox: Villa look like they could have got away without Christian Benteke all season - with him they are Europe contenders for sure!

A twinkle-toed little jink through a corridor of space in the Aston Villa defence from David Silva ends with the Spaniard curling a tame shot into the body of Brad Guzan in goal.

City need a moment of brilliance to unlock the solid ranks of claret and blue, That was nearly it.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "Frank Lampard's in the centre-forward role now. And Pablo Zabaleta must be 50 yards up the field. They are all going forward. City have come here to win, they haven't come to settle for a 0-0 draw."

SUBSTITUTION

As David Silva sweeps a curling free-kick over the bar, Manuel Pellegrini calls for a change.

Off comes Edin Dzeko and Fernando is on. Will that free up Yaya Toure a little more to bomb on? City have come off the boil since Fernandinho was forced off, They maybe missed an anchorman in the middle.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "Villa are beginning to believe because at the other end City are not scoring, despite all the advantage they have had. Since Frank Lampard has come on James Milner is playing a lot narrower. So City have made changes to accommodate Lampard in the hope he will get one of his goals."

Chris Bevan

BBC Sport

The whole stadium - apart from the corner holding the travelling Manchester City fans - was on its feet to welcome Christian Benteke back into action, and huge cheers welcomed his first touch. After surviving so much pressure, Aston Villa have been growing in belief in the last few minutes and the return of their talisman striker will only increase their confidence.

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Henry: Makes me laugh when fans slate a side like Villa for playing defensively against City - do you even know what tactics are? Sigh

Matthew Vins: Re: Andy at 18:32 - Villa buck the trend of tiring with no possession. We rarely have 40%, and beat Liverpool with 25%

SUBSTITUTION

That is the last involvement from Andreas Weimann. He is withdrawn and Christian Benteke, out with a torn Achilles since April, makes his return to action. He gets a big welcome from the home fans.

Andreas Weimann gets his head to a swirling delivery from Tom Cleverley but can only direct his glancing effort wide of the far post.

The game has cranked up a notch since half-time. There could be a big finish brewing, especially with Christian Benteke warming up on the sidelines.

It has the feel of Villa's late win over Chelsea last season, when Fabian Delph flicked home the only goal in the 82nd minute and Ramires was dismissed.

Getty Images

SUBSTITUTION

Fernandinho has come down awkwardly on his ankle as he jumped to contest a header. As he limps to the sidelines, Frank Lampard gets his gear off and is introduced into the action.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "This is very worrying, Aston Villa are going through the Man City midfield far too easily. There is too large a gap between Yaya Toure and Fernandinho. And now Fernandinho seems to be indicating he wants to come off. Even if he wasn't injured I would bring Frank Lampard on."

Give it, give it, GIVE IT! Charles N'Zogbia's twisting and turning run on the break, sucks in defenders, leaving Andreas Weimann begging for the ball in glorious isolation outside him. The pass never comes though and Vincent Kompany slides in to take the ball and snuff out the counter-attack.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "Sergio Aguero doesn't usually miss in those situations. I was just waiting for the inside net to ripple, it didn't, and it came back out off the post.

"A great start to the second half of the game. If City keep this up, surely it is only a matter of time before Villa crack."

Reuters

Now we have. David Silva spins sharply in the box, getting off a shot between the legs of a defender. An unsighted Brad Guzan is equal to it though, getting down to paw the ball away to safety.

HITS THE WOODWORK

Chance, big chance! Sergio Aguero clean through from James Milner's sliderule pass and the Argentine tries to measure his finish as accurately. His side-foot effort smacks against the foot of the post though and we still have not had a shot on target.

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Stavros Makrozachopo: What happened to Paul Lambert of Norwich with the attacking, aggressive football? Ultra defensive now, ultra cautious. Shame

Andy John: Dzeko and Aguero seem to lack a bit of chemistry at times. Both notch fairly regularly but are they good for the team together?

Andy Kidd: Villa to tire, Silva to find a yard and Agüero to nick it for city. 60:40 possession will take its toll

KICK-OFF

We are back up and running.

AFP

Vincent Kompany is the kind of guy you admire whoever you support isn't he? The City skipper slaps Edin Dzeko and Yaya Toure on the back as he gees up his team-mates on his way back out onto the Villa Park pitch.

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Steve Huish, Surbiton: Amazing City may not have scored and Toure not playing well but City still retain 69% possession.

Tony Cocozza: Might as well hand the title to Chelsea now. The rest are nowhere near.

AP

Good shout George Hill.

Nathan Baker has been a great big Ron Vlaar-style rock at the back.

The Villa defender has made 11 clearances in the first half - five more than any other player on the pitch. He also leads his side in interceptions, making five so far.

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Karl Cobane: Edin Dzeko should have a hat-trick by now, but he will score one in the second half, and everyone will forget about the misses as usual.

Ijaz: Good pressure from Man City, have to keep this up in the second half. Three important points at stake before Chelsea's big game tomorrow.

George Hill: Nathan Baker having a cracker so far.

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Any department stores with a Santa vacancy? Put this man in your grotto and watch the spoilt kids which make Christmas shopping even more stressful put back on the straight and narrow.

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West Brom were beaten 2-1 by Liverpool at Anfield this afternoon, with goals from Adam Lallana and Jordan Henderson, either side of a Saido Berahino penalty, consigning them to defeat...

West Brom midfielder Craig Gardner: Thought we battled very well today unlucky not to get a result. The fans were class as usual have a safe trip back.

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Villa Park

"The first half has largely been about Manchester City's attack against Aston Villa's defence but the visitors are yet to find way through Villa's determined back-line - for all of City's possession and pressure they are yet to force Brad Guzan into a save.

"Villa boss Paul Lambert has spent most of the first 45 minutes on the touchline yelling encouragement to his players, like them he could probably do with a sit-down at half-time."

AFP

BBC

Twelve shots, but not one that Brad Guzan has had to dirty his gloves on. City need to sharpen their focus in the second half.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "Aston Villa have withstood tremendous pressure as the half has worn on, full credit to the two centre-backs Nathan Baker and Philippe Senderos, and the goalkeeper Brad Guzan. They have kept their team in it. It has been a spirited performance from Villa, Man City have been in the ascendancy but could not find a way through, and Joe Hart has been untroubled."

HALF-TIME

Aly Cissokho thrusts his head out to divert Edin Dzeko's powerful goal-bound nod behind as the half-time whistle sounds.

Aston Villa are pinned back, hanging on for the half-time whistle. James Milner hits the wrong side of the side netting before Aleksandar Kolorov sees the ball deflect behind off a defender

Five to go

Nathan Baker earns a ripple of applause from the Holte End as he nicks the ball off Sergio Aguero's toe in the box. Excellent defending, he had to get that just right or it could have been spot-kick central.

Five to go in the first half.

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Tom, baffled Arsenal fan: Are City just paying Sagna to not play for Arsenal? Great career move at 31 years of age.

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Edin Dzeko again wants a little too much time in the box, controlling James Milner's cross, and then taking an extra touch which allows a claret and blue cloud to descend on him and take the sting out of his shot.

Reuters

Vincent Kompany gets caught dithering on the ball and Aston Villa have City on the rack as Andreas Weimann advances to the edge of the box. Who is this thundering up behind him though?

It is the imposing figure of Yaya Toure who gets back to pick Weimann's pocket and halt the attack.

EPA

Aleksandar Kolorov argues his way to the front of the queue for a free-kick 30 yards from goal, but his effort is always curling the wrong way.

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The Weasel: Who's that marauding down the right for Aston Villa? He reminds me of a certain German full-back. It's Hutton dressed as Lahm.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park:"Edin Dzeko did the hard bit to bring the ball down so well, but he snapped at the finish.

"In City's system where the two full-backs are pushed high and wide there is a gap down the middle of the defence like the Mersey tunnel. You have to have a player like Vincent Kompany, who reads the situation so well, to defend it. He looks to be in a purple patch here today. Alan Hutton's cross (18:02) is the closest Villa have come in these first 35 minutes."

MISS!

The best chance of the game so far. Edin Dzeko does well to sell Nathan Baker into a sliding block with a drop of the shoulder, but then clumps his finish high over the top.

He had a bit of space in the box there and that has been a rare bit of real estate so far.

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Hull beat Crystal Palace 2-0 on Saturday through goals from Mohamed Diame and Nikica Jelavic to pick up three points for the first time since the opening day of the season...

Hull's Ahmed Elmohamady: It's always good to get three points before international, great performance from everyone today and great fans!

Hull's Curtis Davies: Great 3 points today & long overdue clean sheet! Had to be patient with how they get behind the ball but paid off in the end.

Surely that is a cross? Alan Hutton boots the ball into the penalty area from way out left and 40 yards from goal and briefly it looks like it might float over Joe Hart and in.

As it lands on the roof of the net, he looks ready to say he meant it. Not sure his claims would be as convincing as Ronaldinho's in 2002.

At five foot and not a lot, Sergio Aguero doesn't get much practice, but that is a decent header.

The Argentine gives a whipped Aleksandar Kolorov cross the deftest of eyebrows and his effort floats only just over the top.

PA

Charles N'Zogbia shakes a leg to get the likes of Sam (below) interested.

The Aston Villa man picks up the ball near the centre circle, drives at the City box and, encountering no resistence, lets fly from 25 yards.

He catches it sweetly, but it is a foot or two wide of Joe Hart's post.

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Villa Park

"Manchester City have dominated possession so far, enjoying 60% of the ball, but that won't bother Villa boss Paul Lambert too much - when his side won this fixture last season, they did it with just 33% possession, their lowest total of the entire campaign. It's what you do with the ball what counts and, so far, most of City's many passing moves have broken down on the edge of the Villa area."

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Sam: Both teams are playing like it's the 90th minute and they're all exhausted. It's pretty bad so far.

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YELLOW CARD

Aleksandar Kolorov is the first name into Chris Foy's little black book. He earns his yellow as much for an earlier foul on Tom Cleverley as another mis-timed slide.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "Under normal circumstances it was right for a shot but David Silva spotted Sergio Aguero's good run and thought it was a better option. Obviously Brad Guzan spotted it too, and the Villa keeper snuffed it out quickly."

Manager reaction

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Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock: "The first goal was always going to be vital and we didn't take our chances.

"In the 40th minute there was a blatant elbow from Michael Dawson on Fraizer Campbell. I have seen red cards given for less than that and the referee (Mike Dean) doesn't even see it.

"It is OK the ref seeing pulling shirts but the elbows are the ones you've got to spot, and he is one of our top referees.

"In the first minute there was a bodycheck by James Chester outside the box and he wasn't booked for it. I can't understand it.

"If the players can continue to give me what they gave today then I can't complain. We upped our game after we conceded. We could have done a little bit more before that I think.

"When you lose a game of football at this level, you are all disappointed and that's how it should be."

After a cagey start, it is starting to open up a little. Joe Hart does well to claim a cross before David Silva almost slips Sergio Aguero in behind at the other end. Brad Guzan is off the blocks swiftly to smother the throughball.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "Villa are expending an awful lot of energy pressing City, who are passing it all around the pitch. They are certainly making Villa do the chasing."

PA

Manchester City are playing in their dark-blue fade of an away kit. It is an opinion-splitter on the BBC Sport desk. Some are ranking it alongside Newcastle's lime and liquorice effort from earlier today, while others are confirmed fans.

Thoughts?

Manager reaction

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Stoke manager Mark Hughes: "We didn't deserve anything out of the game. We got off to a bad start and in away games in the Premier League you have to give yourselves a platform. We got back in it but the next opportunity they created they get another goal.

"It wasn't the best game in the world. On the day it was poor fayre from arguably both teams but we were poorer than Sunderland. Every time we allowed them an opportunity they took it so congratulations to them but we weren't at the level we needed to be at.

"We were probing, had a vast amount of possession but didn't have that cutting edge. We've played a lot better than that. They've picked up three points and in all honesty we haven't made it that difficult."

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Villa Park

AP

"Villa Park is far from full but there is still a decent atmosphere here, helped by the Manchester City fans who have not stopped singing since kick-off - their topics include Sergio Aguero, Pablo Zabaleta and Vincent Kompany. Their Villa counterparts have been quieter but the Holte End has very loudly questioned whether City had as many followers before their recent success, and their chances of winning the Champions League. Just not in so many words."

Yaya Toure's pass to Sergio Aguero, under little pressure, runs behind the Argentine and out of play to sarcastic cheers from the home fans. Toure puts his hand up to apologise.

Manchester City are making inroads down the Villa right as Alan Hutton finds he has his hands full with runners coming at him from every angle. Aleksandar Kolorov has space to get in a cross, but his effort is over-hit with Edin Dzeko lurking in the middle.

Manager reaction

AFP

Hull manager Steve Bruce: "It was an important result for us because it has been so unlike us in recent weeks to let leads slip and concede goals.

"We've had success by being resolute and difficult to beat. So the clean sheet pleased me because we have worked hard and gone back to a tried and tested 3-5-2 system, and it worked.

"We have some tough games coming up against Arsenal and Liverpool, which is an awful run of games, but that's the league we are in. It is important to get to the amount of points we have, though we could have been in a far better position."

Which Eliaquim Mangala are we going to get today? The supreme modern centre-half we saw against Chelsea or the rick-waiting-to-happen that played against Hull?

He has been cool and calm so far, ushering the ball away from Andreas Weimann.

Getty Images

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "When Aleksandar Kolarov gets into space goalkeepers must tremor. This one beat Brad Guzan for sheer power and cannoned back off the outside of the post."

HITS THE WOODWORK

City are starting to turn the screw.

Ashley Westwood flings himself in the way of a Sergio Aguero shot and from the loose ball Aleksandar Kolorov rattles the outside of the post with a solid rising drive.

It found the woodwork via a deflection off Alan Hutton and I think Brad Guzan had it covered anyway.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "Man City have started at a high tempo, which has become a regular feature of their game. But in midweek they scored early but couldn't maintain it, and the same happened at Hull where they begin with a blistering pace. Today, while they have not yet threatened Brad Guzan's goal, they have started at a very swift pace once again."

PA

There are a few empty seats at Villa Park. It's Birmingham so I imagine there are some traffic problems.

Otherwise - visit of the champions after a strong start to the season - you have to hope for a full house.

Did you enjoy your win today, Liverpool fans? Why not listen to the commentary of today's goals from Anfield in this short BBC Radio 5 live clip.

Nathan Baker does well to block a shot on the edge of the Aston Villa box, but the hosts are given a chance to relieve the first bit of pressure in the match as Aleksander Kolorov catches Tom Cleverley late to give away a free-kick.

AP

Player reaction

PA

Hull goalscorer Mohamed Diame, who now has three in four games since signing for the club: "We deserved it.

"The clean sheet was good. We have conceded a lot of goals lately and so the clean sheet was important and we are looking forward to the next game.

"I am happy about scoring another goal. I am a midfielder and all midfielders need to score goals. It is important for my confidence and I am happy and hopeful I can score more goals.

"It was important to win this game because after the international break we have Arsenal and Liverpool, which aren't easy games, so this is good for the confidence."

Ashley Westwood make his presence felt, handing off David Silva rugby-style as the pair contest a midfield ball. Chris Foy is happy to let it go. Silva spends a couple of seconds checking all his features are where they should be still.

BBC Radio

BBC Radio Manchester summariser Fred Eyre at Villa Park: "Aston Villa have just had a big upset in the warm-up with Gabriel Agbonlahor, who was really the main striker in the absence of Christian Benteke.

"I'm very happy with the Man City line-up, and I expected Eliaquim Mangala to come back - you don't spend that amount of money on a player and not give them time on the pitch."

It looks like Andreas Weimann is Villa's furtherest man forward, with Kieran Richardson and Charles N'Zogbia sitting in behind.

City have lined up with a meat-and-potatoes 4-4-2. Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko doing the little-and-large partnership up front.

Manager reaction

AP

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew: "The comeback showed great spirit and character. Swansea keep possession so well and it's difficult but we really dug in and carried a little more threat today.

"There's always pressure when you're behind in a game but it's my job to try and lift the players and make sure there's fight in their belly. The confidence will get better and this will give us belief. They've been good in training but you can see on the pitch that they are under a little bit of stress but they responded really well today."

KICK-OFF

Chris Foy toots his whistle and we are up and running.

Villa Park is in fine voice as Paul Lambert strides down the touchline to exchange pleasantries with his opposite number.

Manuel Pellegrini and his assistant have broken out the duvet jackets. They have gone early for me there. Only the start of October.

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Manager reaction

EPA

West Brom manager Alan Irvine: "I was disappointed in how we used the ball in the first half. I was disappointed we didn't show enough courage on the ball. I challenged the players to be braver at half-time and in the second half we gave Liverpool a difficult game. From our point of view, we've got a few things we're disappointed with."

Irvine on the Baggies' penalty: "From where I was I couldn't be sure whether it was inside or out. Having been given it, for Saido Berahino to step up and take it with such confidence was great. He practises and he gets the benefit of all that practice. I thought he worked the centre-halves extremely well. His movement for a young player is very good. "

This Aston Villa line-up is a moveable feast.

The Villa Park stadium announcer says Gabriel Agbonlahor was injured in the warm-up, rather than suffering from a return of the bug.

Jack Grealish is promoted to the bench with Andreas Weimann in the starting XI.

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DSM: Easy Aston Villa win today, i can just see it happening!

Robert Griffin: Baker in the starting XI always makes me feel uneasy... #AVFC

Prior to the virus that hit Aston Villa's Bodymoor like headlice at a primary school, Villa has taken 10 points from the first 12 on offer.

Since the outbreak they have been beaten 3-0 by both Arsenal and Chelsea.

Even that sounds like a good effort to me. I can hardly get downstairs with a dose of manflu..

Manager reaction

AFP

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers: "It was very satisfying. We had to show big character today. West Brom were arriving here on the back of a number of good results. I thought the resilience of the players was fantastic and we were helped by the crowd because they realised the team needed a lift. It was a big win for us.

"All being well we'll have all the players back against QPR and that's important to us. Daniel Sturridge and Joe Allen, we have missed his intensity and technical quality. When you lose someone like Luis Suarez it's going to take time to adjust, but the players here are magnificent, great quality and character, they had to dig in and got the result.

"We showed great potential against Tottenham and once we get all the players back and we can rotate the squad a bit better that will help us. It's been frustrating, we had to make changes in the summer, to strengthen the squad and we missed a world class striker. We will get better as we go on."

Jonathan Pearce

BBC Match of the Day commentator at Villa Park

"On paper this should be Manchester City's sixth league win in their last seven games against a Villa side that suffered potentially demoralising 3-0 defeats in the last two matches.

"But I'm not too sure.

"The reigning champions have been below their best since losing in Munich last month. Their self-belief has been dented.

"Manchester City have the sumptuous skills and overall strength to suddenly hit form and smack in five or six against anyone. Villa, though, are better than those defeats against the Gunners and at Stamford Bridge suggest. They could create a shock in this one."

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Villa Park

BBC Sport

"Huge cheers for Christian Benteke when his name is read out by the stadium announcer at Villa Park. The Belgian striker is on the bench after missing Villa's last 14 Premier League games with an Achilles injury, and is looking spritely in the warm-up. The sun is still shining here, incidentally, but it has gone decidedly chilly."

Manager reaction

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Sunderland manager Gus Poyet: "I love winning, I hate losing. It was incredible. It wasn't our best game but we were outstanding in front of goal. They are happy boys now. The start looks different, it looks more than decent.

"They (the players) want to be on the front page of the newspaper tomorrow.

"When I'm wrong I take responsibility. It's nice when it works. Something was missing - we were good but couldn't score. We started Fletch and it worked. I am sure we will play better but it's a good day.

"Before today it was no wins. Now we have only lost one in seven. I don't remember the last time I was that calm at the end of a game."

Villa make late change

Looks like the virus that swept through Aston Villa's training ground a couple of weeks ago has not gone for good.

Gabriel Agbonlahor is ill so has been replaced in the starting line-up by Andreas Weimann.

Villa's starting line-up now reads: Guzan, Hutton, Senderos, Baker, Cissokho, Cleverley, Westwood, Delph, N'Zogbia, Richardson, Weimann.

No news on who, if anyone, steps up to take the spare seat on the Villa bench.

Manager reaction

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Swansea manager Garry Monk: "We should have won the game. The two times we didn't concentrate we were punished but one point is better than none.

"The possession was so easy that our concentration lapsed a little. We talked about managing the game properly but we didn't do it. We had chances to put the game to bed and didn't so we ran the risk of that happening."

Former Republic of Ireland international Kevin Kilbane

Final Score

"Sunderland needed goals from Connor Wickham and Steven Fletcher and they got them from both today. Overall they will be delighted. They didn't start particularly well, but they grew into it as it went on and deserved the win."

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Ross Wallace, what a fantastic free-kick it was from him. It just knocked the stuffing right out of Leicester. They beat Manchester United at home not so long ago and they really should have won again today. A great result for Burnley."

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Sufyaan: Liverpool one point of third place. Crisis? What crisis?

Abhishek: One of these days I am going to end up in ICU. Liverpool fans will have a seperate wing

MJC1973: Well a win is a win but we really make it hard for ourselves #LFC

"See you out there"

Right now somewhere behind the scenes at Villa Park, Villa assistant manager Roy Keane and Manchester City development manager Patrick Vieira are probably bumping chests over a pre-match buffet.

Obviously, obviously, no-one likes to see scuffles in the tunnel, but it has been a long time since we have seen two warriors going at from the off like those two did in February 2005.

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BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Villa Park

BBC Sport

"The visit of champions Manchester City is the latest in a vicious run of fixtures for Aston Villa, who have just played the three other teams from last season's top four, beating Liverpool but losing to Arsenal and Chelsea. "I've not known a sequence of games like it," writes Villa boss Paul Lambert in his programme notes, but he is still confident of ending it with another victory.

"We never set our stall out to do anything but win and we know we've done this before by coming from behind here twice last season to overcome City in a thrilling game," Lambert explains. "If we do get something that we can hang on to today, we believe we can go again and take it."

This one's for Roy from Croydon.

BBC

European football result

Spanish La Liga

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It's all over in the Mestalla, where Valencia have stunned Atletico Madrid with a 3-1 victory over the Spanish champions.

The hosts went 3-0 up inside 13 minutes, thanks to Miranda's own goal, an Andre Gomes strike and Nicolas Otamendi's header. Atletico striker Mario Mandzukic pulled one back for the visitors, who also missed a penalty when Diego Alves saved Guilherme Siqueira's spot-kick.

Football League round-up

Bury go top of the bottom tier with a 2-0 win over north-west rivals Tranmere. An equaliser in the eighth minute of injury-time hands Wycombe a dramatic 1-1 draw against top-six rivals Northampton and keeps the Chairboys in second place.

At the bottom, three second-half goals help Carlisle cruise past Hartlepool and climb off the foot of the Football League. The crushing 3-0 defeat means the home side sink to the bottom instead.

Five other sides - Accrington, Oxford, Plymouth, Morecambe and Luton - are also celebrating victories.

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Villa Park

BBC Sport

Manchester City arrive at a sunny Villa Park looking for a win to put some pressure on leaders Chelsea, and hoping to find some form after a sluggish start to the defence of their title. A clean sheet would help Manuel Pellegrini's men - they have not managed one of those in the Premier League or Europe since their opening game of the new campaign - but to do that they need to avoid a repeat of the disastrous defending that gifted Aston Villa victory here at a similar stage of last season.

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Sean Cole: How about some credit now for Burnley? Fantastic result seeing as we had to start with five defenders, three wingers and two strikers.

Nowt wrong with a good, solid 5-3-2, Sean...

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Jonathan Grieve: Bit of fight in the team and the players are with the manager but the fact remains Newcastle NEED to win games.

Roy Sinar: Not all doom and gloom for Albion when a Champions League side has to scrape past us at home. How much did Liverpool spend?

Ahmer Murad: Not entirely convincing but plenty of positives. I'm sure Liverpool will build from here. Defence a major worry, though.

BBC

Football League round-up

Leaders Bristol City drop points as hosts Walsall nick a late 1-1 draw at the Bescot Stadium. But the Robins are still four points clear of Swindon, who move up to second with a 2-1 win at Leyton Orient.

Peterborough drop to third after being held 2-2 by visitors Oldham, while Barnsley move out of the bottom four with a 1-0 triumph at Rochdale.

The Tykes are replaced in the drop zone by Colchester, who lose 4-2 in a six-goal thriller at Preston. Elsewhere, there are wins for Bradford, Fleetwood, Notts County, Doncaster and MK Dons.

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Nick from Burnley: Say what you want about Burnley's lack of quality, depth and experience (all obvious and easy judgments) you cant knock their team spirit, never say die attitude & top management. These points will add up come next year!

Chris Clarke: Do you think Alan Pardew has been watching The Producers? Put out a poor team and guarantee yourself the sack and a huge payout, then the players mess it up by scraping a result that keeps him in the job.

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FULL-TIME

BBC

But here's the result we've been waiting all afternoon for, courtesy of our colleagues at BBC Cumbria Sport. A second-half fightback from Kendal, who trailed 1-0 at the interval in the Evo-Stik Division One fixture.

Could have been a long-range winner judging by the position of the keeper in the picture above..

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606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

Lines are now open for 606 on BBC Radio 5 live with Darren Fletcher and Robbie Savage - and there is no shortage of talking points from this afternoon's action.

A first win of the season for Sunderland - have things clicked into place at the Stadium of Light? Liverpool finally get the win, but Mario Balotelli starts on the bench, Liverpool fans what did you make of that decision? And a first defeat for Neil Warnock's Crystal Palace at Hull…what are you thoughts on that?

On the text, we're asking for your bizarre travelling football stories - been ripped off by a tout? Found tickets on the floor? Get in touch, 0500 909 693, 85058 or @bbc606.

Table tales

BBC

Plenty of movement in the Premier League table.

Rising to sixth, six points off the pace, are Liverpool, but what could have been for Leicester.

Those sly Foxes could have been up to third had they hung on to beat Burnley...

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Kwong Tse: Well played Liverpool we have the three points! Hope Adam Lallana is OK, he seemed to fall to his knees just before final whistle.

James: Leicester look like last year's Southampton, Southampton like last year's Liverpool, and Liverpool like last year's Man United.

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And breathe Liverpool fans....

That win stops a rot of four games without a victory. QPR away after the international break then the little matter of Real Madrid at Anfield.

Football League round-up

Promotion favourites Norwich cling on to top spot as Cameron Jerome's second-half strike earns a hard-fought point against newly-promoted Rotherham at Carrow Road.

Watford move second as visitors Brighton nick a share of the points, but Nottingham Forest can move above both of them if they beat Ipswich tomorrow.

Middlesbrough move up to fifth as they end Fulham's recent revival under caretaker manager Kit Symons with a 2-0 home win. The Cottagers remain in the bottom three, two points ahead of rock-bottom Bolton.

Wanderers, who parted company with manger Dougie Freedman yesterday, lost 2-1 at home to 10-man Bournemouth.

FULL-TIME

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"It was a very much needed win for Liverpool. You can see how much it means to the players, who are punching the air in delight. It is never easy coming off the back of a Champions League game. West Brom contributed to the match but I think Liverpool just about deserved to win it."

Final scores

FULL-TIME

FULL-TIME

A stunning, late fightback from Burnley earns them a draw against their fellow Premier League new boys.

Hull are eating up the seconds, hogging the ball and snuffing out any faint Palace hope.

FULL-TIME

CLOSE!

Liam Rosenoir hoofs off the line from Damien Delaney's header as Palace hunt for something out of the game. Just seconds to go...

GOAL

And the midfielder curls it into the corner to beat Kasper Schmeichel all ends up. Burnley might just have another point. Has their luck changed?

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Last chance saloon

Scott Arfield is fouled on the edge of the area. Burnley win a free-kick. Ross Wallace steps over the ball...

FULL-TIME

Newcastle owner Mike Ashley rubs his chin wistfully in the stands as his side head down the tunnel. They got a bit lucky against a dominant Swansea side, but never stopped scrapping.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"In that goal Nikica Jelavic has shown great movement off the ball - he always wants it on the last shoulder - composure, a drag back and the ability to finish it with the outside of his right foot. It's an important finish too - he knows he has to score to finish Crystal Palace off."

FULL-TIME

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"Saido Berahino has been a bundle of energy and has not given the Liverpool defence a second. If anyone deserves to get something from this game it is him. He has been superb."

GOAL

The sucker-punch that surely floors Palace. With the visitors pushed on, Tom Huddlestone springs Nikica Jelavic into acres of space in behind the away defence. The Croatia international takes his time before slotting past Julian Speroni.

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INJURY TIME

Seven minutes of injury time following that injury to Kieran Tripper. There's four minutes for Liverpool to hold on at Anfield.

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Hull look like they have the three points locked down at the KC Stadium. Passes are going astray there from the visiting side.

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Liam Stones: Are any other Liverpool fans currently worried about holding onto a one-goal lead..?

A superb one-handed save from Tom Heaton denies Liam Moore's powerful header. Foxes remain on top.

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Newcastle are giving the Swansea defence the jitters with Sammy Ameobi almost getting free on the left and substitute Ayoze Perez wrongly flagged offside as he raced past Ashley Williams and onto a throughball.

West Brom are turning up the heat now... Sebastian Blanco delivering an exquisite cross from the right which nobody in the box can quite get on the end of. It was almost too good - like a fast bowler beating the outside edge with a jaffa.

Final five

Five minutes to go. This is kill-time....

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"[Liverpool defender] Dejan Lovren does not convince me. He has looked cumbersome, he has looked laboured and he has been erratic in his decision-making today."

Football League latest

Watford's hopes of taking top spot in the Championship tonight take a double whammy. First the Hornets concede an equaliser against Brighton, who level through Lewis Dunk, and then see current leaders Norwich nab a leveller of their own against Rotherham.

Cameron Jerome takes his tally to seven goals in eight matches for the Canaries, meaning they will stay top ahead of Watford on goal difference if the scores stay the same.

Poor Bolton are behind again as Callum Wilson nets his second for 10-man Bournemouth. Wolves are level 2-2 against Wigan, while Middlesbrough double their advantage against Fulham.

SUBSTITUTION

Papiss Cisse trots off to a standing ovation from the away support. Ayoze Perez is on in his place.

Getty Images

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Adam, Edinburgh: On this evidence, hard to see how Lovren can be worth £20m. Has made more basic errors in possession today than a top class centre back should in a season.

Join the debate on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

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Rhys Evans: Swansea's inability to kill off teams and the amount of time Ki Sung-Yeung gives the ball away is going to cost them this year.

Bright Eugene VII: What can Alan Pardew do without Papiss Cisse? The Senegalese has once again handed him a get out of jail free card.

Burnley's problems continue to mount as Kieran Trippier - one of their most influential players - goes down with a serious-looking ankle injury and is stretchered off. Michael Keane looks to be his replacement.

SUBSTITUTION

Hull make a change with Gaston Ramirez on in place of Abel Hernandez. Not exactly the hatchet man you need to tie a game down...

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Villa Park

BBC

"The big news for Aston Villa fans - and the T-shirt sellers outside Villa Park - is that Christian Benteke is back in their squad for the first time since he ruptured his Achilles at the start of April. The Belgian starts on the bench as Villa boss Paul Lambert makes one change from the side that lost to Chelsea last weekend - Charles N'Zogbia comes in for Andreas Weimann, who scored the winner in this fixture last season.

"Manchester City hand a start to former Villa midfielder James Milner and make two changes to the defence that started against Roma on Tuesday, with Aleksandar Kolarov and Eliaquim Mangala coming in for Gael Clichy and Martin Demichelis. Joe Hart keeps his place in goal and Fernando is among the substitutes after recovering from a groin injury.

Former Republic of Ireland international Kevin Kilbane

Final Score

"There was brilliant play from Connor Wickham, who beats two or three players, pulls it back, there is a miskick but it falls to Steven Fletcher and he does not miss. He has had injury problems but is a proven goalscorer. Two great goals from him today."

Ten to go

Newcastle have played catch-up all through this match, but could they now dip for the line and take all three points?

Emmanuel Riviere shanks a side-foot effort from 10 yards out and Papiss Cisse hooks over the top as Swansea are stretched at the back.

Ten to go.

GOAL

Absolutely awesome stuff from Connor Wickham as he drives forward with the ball for 40 yards - Stoke defenders just bouncing off him - and he eventually squares for Steven Fletcher to smash home from 12 yards, via Jack Rodwell's inadvertent dummy.

AP

Life in the old 'keeper yet. Steve Harper flings himself skywards to tip over a Yannick Bolassie rasper over from 30-odd yards.

A high-quality half-second of football all round.

Almost a chance for number three for Liverpool when Raheem Sterling gets clear, just ahead of Joleon Lescott, but the forward's touch is too heavy and the ball runs away, and with it the chance.

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Myles Warwood: Papiss Cisse just does not want Alan Pardew to be sacked.

Joshua Roberts: Saido Berahino- top English goal scorer in the Premier League. Surely San Marino and Estonia were perfect games for him... Electric for U21s.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Papiss Cisse, this fella does not know Newcastle are in any kind of trouble at all. He just keeps scoring goals, and he might be the man who keeps Alan Pardew in a job."

CLOSE!

Better from the Clarets as Lukas Jutkiewicz spins his marker on the edge of the area and skims a low shot just past the post.

GOAL

Papiss Cisse started his Newcastle career as a scorer of great goals. He is looking more like a great goalscorer today. He stretches out one of those whippet-thin limbs to turn in Sammy Ameobi's cross from close range and, although they have been living off scrapes for most of the game, Newcastle are level.

Adam Jennings at 16:30? Hope you were not on the phone to the bookies.

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Latest scores

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Adam Jennings: What are the odds of a complete round of home 2-1 wins in the Premier League now then?

GREAT SAVE!

Tim Krul pulls off a carbon-copy of his excellent first-half save. Nathan Dyer's cross, Wilfried Bony's snap-shot and again the Dutchman plunges to his left to turn a low effort around the post.

European football result

German Bundesliga

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German champions Bayern Munich have extended their lead at the top of the Bundesliga to five points after a 4-0 thrashing of Hannover. Robert Lewandowski and Arjen Robben both scored twice.

Football League latest

Preston storm into a 4-2 lead against lowly Colchester in their League One thriller, while Nathan Tyson puts Doncaster 2-1 ahead against Scunthorpe. Second-placed Peterborough, aiming to hang on to the coat-tails of leaders Bristol City,are pegged back to 2-2 by visitors Oldham.

Only two second-half goals to tell you about in League Two - but they are important ones. Bury look set to move top as Kelvin Etuhu puts them 1-0 ahead against Tranmere. At the other end, Carlisle nick a 1-0 lead at Hartlepool. That means the Cumbrians will move off the bottom and be replaced by their opponents if the scoreline stays the same.

SUBSTITUTION

Here he comes. Mario Balotelli is unleashed on West Brom. Rickie Lambert makes way. I'm not going to say that Lambert 'put in a shift'...

Getty Images

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AKinwumi: Gylfi Sigurdsson and Cesc Fabregas competing for top assists in the league. Superb signings.

SUBSTITUTION

Alan Pardew wants a little firepower up top so summons Emmanuel Riviere off the bench to replace midfield terrier Jack Colback.

Stoke are trying to build up a head of steam - but failing, with Charlie Adam's looping header easily caught by Vito Mannone. It was from the edge of the area too. How many times have you seen Adam score a header from the edge of the area? Exactly.

SUBSTITUTION

Neil Warnock reacts to falling behind by calling for Marouane Chamakh from the bench. Off comes Fraizer Campbell, having failed to score against one of his former clubs.

Chamakh's mohawk is being undermined by his fast-receding hairline by the way. I fear for its future.

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Ste Stainton: Jordan Henderson is such a big player for Liverpool now, gets unnecessary stick and is missed when he doesn't start, as last season showed!

Football League latest

Turns out we might have written off Championship strugglers Bolton too soon! Bournemouth's advantage lasts just six minutes as Jay Spearing - remember him Liverpool fans? - hammers in an equaliser. Charlton's hopes of moving into the top two take a blow as Birmingham equalise at the Valley, while Blackburn's Jordan Rhodes misses from the penalty spot against old club Huddersfield.

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"Mario Balotelli's form has not been good enough to maintain a place in the team. Lambert has put in a decent shift. It is a good time for Balotelli to come on and hopefully it will give Liverpool some impetus going forward. But the game is also still there for West Brom if they can find some rhythm again."

SUBSTITUTION

Former Burnley striker David Nugent is on for Leicester. Can he add to the woes of the Premier League's bottom club? The Foxes still in control at the King Power Stadium.

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Joey Knoff: What a terrible decision from the referee Oliver there (16:13). Surely that was outside the area.

Don Limani: You can debate whether outside or inside all day, a £20m defender should know better than to just dive in!

Gareth Whalley: Raheem Sterling proving why you should always play to the whistle. Probably a penalty but instead of complaining got the assist.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Jordan Henderson does really well because he gets there quite late. A great response from Liverpool. It is just what they needed."

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager at BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"It was a superb cross-field ball from Steven Gerrard that started the move. It is also a great finish, low down to Ben Fosters's right-hand corner. It is a superb response for Liverpool. This was a big test of their character and they are coming through it at the moment."

GOAL

The first effort on goal delivers the first goal at the KC Stadium. Andrew Robertson's cross, with the help of a deflection, finds its way to Mohamed Diame who buries his header past Julian Speroni from eight yards out.

Getty Images

GOAL

Liverpool are back in front - Raheem Sterling picking out Jordan Henderson in the penalty area and the dynamic midfielder drives a shot into the back of the net. Rickie Lambert, standing in an offside position, does well to avoid touching the side-footed effort and Henderson wheels off to celebrate rather enthusiastically.

PA

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"I think the referee Michael Oliver has got that one wrong. It looks as though Dejan Lovren's challenge on Saido Berahino is outside the box. Lovren got it all wrong and went lunging in, Berahino was too quick but it is just outside. Berahino cannot stop scoring.

"West Brom are continuing to take the game to Liverpool, who are looking rocky. Now it is 1-1 it could go either way."

BBC

Almost an hour gone and we are still awaiting our first effort on target at the KC. It has not been one worth setting the video for.

Raheem Sterling tries to get Liverpool purring again and he picks out Rickie Lambert who hooks a shot over the bar.

AFP

It's settled into a pattern at the Stadium of Light. Stoke attack and Sunderland look to hit them on the break. More goals likely.

Football League latest

Yesterday Bolton dumped their manager Dougie Freedman and then slumped to the bottom of the Championship when Blackpool beat Cardiff. So there is no better opportunity to get back on track at home against a Bournemouth side reduced to 10 men in the first half, right? Wrong. Callum Wilson stick the Cherries ahead moments after the restart.

Watford are set to be top of the Championship in about 40 minutes' time. The Hornets, who are unbeaten at Vicarage Road in the league, lead 1-0 against Brighton through Daniel Tozser.

Middlesbrough take an early second-half lead against Fulham through Adam Reach, while former Brentford loanee Simon Cox pulls a goal back to Reading 2-1 down at Griffin Park.

Latest scores

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David Ljunggren: Alan Pardew deserves to be fired for not strengthening the central defence. Mike Williamson and Fabricio Coloccini are clearly not good enough.

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"I thought it was inside initially. It looked a penalty. I have to say Berahino has been impressive today and he nipped in just ahead of Lovren. It is a big goal for West Brom in the context of the game. How is that going to affect the psychology of the game and the atmosphere in the stadium?"

Sammy Ameobi has been ushered into the fray to replace Yoan Gouffran for Newcastle. Can he be Alan Pardew's Mark Robins?

Thirty-nine year-old Steve Harper has not had his ageing limbs tested yet in the Hull goal.

Yannick Bolassie's header flies over the top from Jason Puncheon's free-kick.

GOAL

Butterflies in the stomach? Not a chance. Saido Berahino is calmness personified as he sends Simon Mignolet the wrong way to draw West Brom level.

"Mario." "Mario." "Start taking your bib off... you're on in the next five minutes."

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PENALTY FOR WEST BROM

Dejan Lovren trips Saido Berahino... penalty. But was the foul outside the box? I think it was...

Scott Dann is watching from the bench with crutches and a knee brace. Medial ligament damage is the diagnosis.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Alan Pardew is under huge pressure. If he loses this one I cannot see how he can still be in a job. One win in 14 Premier League games is it? The fight appears to be there from his players but you could question whether Newcastle are organised enough, certainly defensively. And that comes down to the manager."

PA

Mario Balotelli is a lone figure as he warms up on the touchline. He's in full kit, with a fluorescent bib on. No tracksuit for Mario. He's stripped and ready to go. Providing he can get the bib off in time, that is.

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Daryl Thompson: Is that the third time Leicester have scored directly after conceding this season? Bouncebackability!

Glynn O'Grady: Surely teams should think about keeping it tight after scoring against Leicester? Blistering. Don't let their heads drop.

West Brom have started the second half brightly - Cristian Gamboa particularly effective down the right flank.

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GOAL

It was great persistence from Gylfi Sigurdsson, but Moussa Sissoko's attempts to dispossess the Swansea man were very flaky.

Having seen off Sissoko, Sigurdsson threads a lovely little ball between the two Newcastle centre-backs for Wayne Routledge to run onto and dink a finish over the sprawling Tim Krul.

The lead is restored and it is probably deserved.

PA

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David, Worcs: I'll probably be cast into the pit of hell for this, but I have some sympathy for Pardew. He has no real say in how the club is run, yet he has to go before the media and defend it.

John, Bulgaria: In defence of Craig the toon (14:49) fan may be he wants NUFC relegated as perhaps that's the only way he can see Mike Ashley leaving the club. If fans hatred of him won't send him packing perhaps being a championship side will.

Tom in Sheffield: Newcastle, bit of advice, don't change the manger, don't change the owner, don't change the players, change the kit, get rid of that fashion crisis and watch your fortunes change.

KICK-OFF

Swansea are not hanging around. There are up and flying early doors on the south Wales coast. Closely followed by Leicester. And here come tardy Hull. Second half is go.

BBC

Swansea have been on top in the first half at the Liberty.

Football League latest

A steady flow of goals have been scored across League Two, with only a pair of matches remaining goalless.

Second-placed Bury are being held by that scoreline against visitors Tranmere, but third-placed Wycombe are also failing to take advantage of leaders Burton's defeat on Friday. The Chairboys are losing 1-0 at home against fifth-placed Northampton.

Meanwhile, Morecambe are beating top-six rivals Southend and there are also leads for Accrington, Oxford and Plymouth.

Getty Images

Scott Dann had just one touch of the ball in the first half at the KC Stadium. Unfortunately for the Palace defender his attempt to block a Tom Huddlestone shot on the edge of the his own box left him injured.

I thought it was his knee that was twisted, but apparently he was treated for concussion in the dressing room.

BBC

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Burnley broke their goal drought this afternoon to draw level at 1-1 with Leicester, but then conceded again straight after to trail 2-1 at half-time...

Sheelagh: We've just seen why Burnley will definitely to relegated this season. Their inexperience and poor defending at the top level will be their downfall. No sooner or they level, they're behind again.

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Chad Smith: Absolutely heartbreaking for the Baggies to concede a goal right on half-time. Have to regroup and keep their composure!

Ada: Adam Lallana hasn't got Raheem Sterling's pace or Luis Suarez's dribbling but he has a great work rate and determination similar to Dirk Kuyt.

Ash: Rickie Lambert criticised but in 45 mins he's tried and done more up front than Mario Balotelli in seven games. He may be 32 but he'll be a £4m bargain.

BBC

Liverpool have had the better of the first half - but not by loads. West Brom will still feel they have a chance after the break.

Football League latest

Championship leaders Norwich could go three points clear - but not as things stand. The Canaries are trailing 1-0 after Republic of Ireland midfielder Paul Green puts Rotherham ahead from the penalty spot.

Wigan have fought back from behind against the side who sit next to them near the bottom of the Football League alphabet. Wolves led through Dave Edwards before James Perch's quick equaliser and Marc-Antoine Fortune's strike seconds before half-time puts them 2-1 ahead.

Third-placed Charlton are on course to finish the afternoon in the automatic promotion spots as they lead 1-0 against Birmingham, while Brentford are 2-0 ahead against Reading. The other five matches remain goalless.

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ASAC Boyler: Three goals in around two hours of game time - Could this be Papiss Cisse returning to the form he showed when he first signed for Newcastle?

AKarim: One thing for sure, the way Liverpool have been defending this season, we will need another goal.

Football League latest

Bristol City's charge towards the Championship is showing no signs of slowing down. The leaders, who are five points clear at the top, are 1-0 to the good at Walsall.

Nearest rivals Peterborough are being held 1-1 by Oldham, while third-placed Swindon are leading at Leyton Orient as they chase a fourth straight win.

Coventry and Crawley are level in a four-goal thriller at the Ricoh, as are Preston and Colchester who are also drawing 2-2.

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Tom Wylie: Yet again Jordan Henderson provides a bit of quality, he's fast becoming our best player at Liverpool!

Mickey Somiah: On this goal and performance, Adam Lallana is worth every penny of his £25million move.

Shaun: Despite our diabolical performances it's good to see Papiss Cisse scoring again for Newcastle.

Half-time scores

HALF-TIME

Martin Fisher

Match of the Day commentator at the KC Stadium

"That was a pretty disappointing half. The main stat that tells it all is that neither goalkeeper has had a single save to make. Nikica Jelavic has missed the target with a couple of headers, while Palace have huffed and puffed but haven't done much better."

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Steve Bruce runs his hands through his mane on the sidelines. That was close for his side. Abel Hernandez's thumping volley from 15 yards flew just wide from Andrew Robertson's cross.

HALF-TIME

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager

"The goal was badly needed and it was beautifully worked. It has got the crowd going and given West Brom a problem. Eventually they are going to have to come out and make the game more open and that will suit Liverpool more."

European football latest

German Bundesliga

In the Bundesliga, Robert Lewandowski has found his shooting boots for Bayern Munich. The Polish striker has scored twice, either side of an Arjen Robben strike, to give the German champions a 3-0 lead over Hannover 96 as we approach the hour mark.

AFP

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"What a fantastic goal between two players who have been on the periphery of the game - Lallana and Henderson. It is totally out of place with the quality of the play we have seen so far. But it will release the pressure around the ground and is just what Liverpool needed."

HALF-TIME

Steve Bower

BBC Match of the Day commentator at Stadium of Light

"An eventful first half where Sunderland lead. Connor Wickham gave them the dream start, Charlie Adam levelled but it's Steven Fletcher with his first goal in 2014 that separates the two teams."

PA

HALF-TIME

Steve Wilson

BBC Match of the Day commentator at Anfield

"West Brom were pretty comfortable until Adam Lallana struck low into the corner beyond Ben Foster. Saido Berahino had a chance moments before with a header but Liverpool go into the break with the lead."

HALF-TIME

Guy Mowbray

BBC Match of the Day commentator at the King Power Stadium

"Three goals in the space of seven minutes and Leicester lead at half-time for the first time this season. Jeffrey Schlupp put them ahead following good work by the impressive Riyad Mahrez. Michael Kightly equalised only for Mahrez to restore Leicester's lead 94 seconds later."

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Paul Walmsley: Of all our new signings, Adam Lallana has settled the fastest. Deserved a goal.

Ben W Walker: Think Wilfried Zaha is good for Palace? You haven't seen Yannick Bolasie. The ball is glued to his foot and he is causing chaos for Hull!

HALF-TIME

Simon Brotherton

Match of the Day commentator

"Swansea played the better football in the first half and took early lead. But Garry Monk's side failed to add to it despite playing some neat passing football and were made to pay when Papiss Cisse squeezed in an equaliser from a narrow angle. All the play for in the second half."

Neither goalkeeper has yet to make a save, but Julian Speroni nearly had to get his gloves dirty there. Nikica Jelavic's header was only narrowly off target from Tom Huddlestone's corner.

AFP

OUCH!

Bizarre scenes at Hull. Ahmed Elmohamady tangles with Joel Ward and appears to take an accidental kick to the arm. He appeals to the referee. Nothing given.

Somewhat piqued, the Hull man runs off the pitch, boots the ball (which has run out of play) and then rolls over, somewhat theatrically. A lengthy period of treatment on his injured arm follows but he is able to carry on.

PA

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"You cannot say the Newcastle players aren't trying for Alan Pardew. They all ran over to him after the goal. The team spirit is there, and they can build on this now."

GOAL

That's what Liverpool shelled out £25m for. Adam Lallana picks up the ball on the edge of the West Brom penalty area and plays a cute one-two with Jordan Henderson before delivering an incisive finish across Ben Foster for his first Liverpool goal.

PA

Former Republic of Ireland international Kevin Kilbane

Final Score

"Today Burnley have really gone for it but they have left themselves open at the back. Jamie Vardy made a good run, but his pass wasn't really well hit - it actually deflects off a heel and creates the opportunity."

GOAL

Gabriel Obertan twists and turns to open up a corridor of space on the right and his low cross is turned in by Papiss Cisse who darts in front of Ashley Williams to get the telling touch.

Williams goes a little Sammy Kuffour in 1999, slamming his fist against the turf in frustration.

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European football latest

AP

Remarkable scenes in Spain's La Liga. Second-placed Valencia are hosting defending champions Atletico Madrid, who are one place behind them, and the pair have shared four goals inside the opening half hour.

Valencia, who are two points behind leaders Barcelona after six matches, storm into a 3-0 lead through Miranda's own goal, Andre Gomes and Nicolas Otamendi in the first 13 minutes. Croatia striker Mario Mandzukic reduces the arrears for shell-shocked Atletico, whose animated boss Diego Simeone will be tearing his hair out.

Follow the latest from the Mestalla here.

The natives are getting restless at Hull. Their side have shown little until Mohamed Diame slashes a shot wide of the far post after a neat one-two with Abel Hernandez.

Get Hatem on...

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GOAL

Burnley's parity lasts just 94 seconds - Riyad Mahrez unmarked to convert Jamie Vardy's deflected cross to the back stick.

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GREAT SAVE!

Tim Krul, take a bow. A superb save from the Newcastle goalkeeper who had to shift his weight sharply before getting down to claw away Wilfried Bony's volley from Nathan Dyer's cross.

GOAL

Perhaps Burnley just wanted that club record (15:36) in the bag before they started to score again? Just three minutes after rewriting the record books, they go and score - Michael Kightly tapping in from six yards out.

Behave, Jack (see Tweet below). I suspect you're a Sunderland fan? Or a Blackburn supporter?

CLOSE!

Ki Sung-Yong's blushes are spared by the linesman. The Swansea midfielder planted his free header wide of goal from about four yards out, but looked up, after cradling his head in his hands, to see that he had strayed offside anyway.

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Jack Willows: Burnley and Newcastle having a good old fight for 20th...

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"I would like to see maybe Steven Gerrard get a strike on the ball from outside the box. Sometimes that is what a side needs to get themselves going. At the moment there is a bit of an imbalance in the Liverpool midfield and Sterling and Coutinho are struggling to get into the game. West Brom are comfortable."

Former Republic of Ireland international Kevin Kilbane

Final Score

"It was always going to be an uphill task for Burnley. They have tried their best to contain sides and have got those draws but it is about scoring goals in this league and they are not creating enough chances."

Getty Images

The clock shows 36 minutes played at the King Power Stadium. It's significant. Burnley have set a new goalless club record. The Clarets have now gone 10 hours and 52 minutes without a goal.

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Simon Ferocious: Liverpool look like a completely different team to last year. Oh hang on, they pretty much are. Patience Liverpool fans.

Liz Tray: Martin Keown says Mario Balotelli needs special management. Caveat emptor! (Latin, for: 'Let the buyer beware') Roberto Mancini made a fool of himself over Mario, will Brendan Rodgers do the same?

Tom Thrall: Newcastle fans need to remember Alan Pardew finished fifth with the Toon until his best players were sold and not really replaced!

Remember THAT volley against Manchester City? Peter Crouch certainly does and the big man has just tried to recreate it at the Stadium of Light, where Stoke trail 2-1. This time it went 20 yards wide.

Palace chairman Steve Parish is surveying the scene from the KC Stadium posh seats. He will be happy enough with what he has seen so far from his side, who have comfortably held Hull at bay, while posing problems at the other end.

GOAL

They can't score, and they are struggling to defend at the moment. It's not looking good for Burnley.

Leicester's Riyad Mahrez gets the better of two defenders with some basic wing-play and drags the ball across the box where an unmarked Jeffrey Schlupp is on hand to slam home from 12 yards out.

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Newcastle's Paul Dummett attempts to knock the ball one side of Jazz Richards and dart around the other. Good idea, but he has not got nearly enough pace to get round his man.

Just after the Swansea jumbotron shows a Get Well Soon message to Jonas Gutierrez. The Newcastle man is recovering from treatment for testicular cancer.

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Gavin Richmond: The Toon kit is green and blue, not grey (see 15:13). Quite nice actually. However, It still doesn't hide the fact that we are abysmal!

Latest scores

Football League latest

We have seen a flurry of goals in League One, with nine already being bagged as we pass the midway point of the first halves.

Oldham took an early lead through Jonathan Forte at second-placed Peterborough, before the home side hit back within 12 minutes to level at 1-1. Visitors Colchester also struck first at Preston, but that only served to sting the hosts into life. Scott Wiseman equalised moments later and Simon Grayson's men now lead through Alan Browne.

Normal service resumed for leaders Bristol City, who are 1-0 up at Walsall. Coventry, Barnsley and Scunthorpe are the other teams enjoying enjoy leads.

Charlie Adam has a dig and his effort is tipped over by Vito Mannone. From the corner, Ryan Shawcross heads onto the roof of the net. This has got 4-4 written all over it.

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Evan Pritchard: Have been a Fabricio Coloccini fan for years but this season he's disappointed me, far more than Alan Pardew.

Anthony Rhodes: Honestly, Newcastle need two new centre-backs. Another mistake by Coloccini.

Grant Jones: Liverpool need to calm down here - build up the play a little more slowly and let players get in better positions.

CLOSE!

One-way traffic at the King Power Stadium. Another excellent set-piece delivery by Leicester's Riyad Mahrez into the danger area picks out Wes Morgan whose powerful close-range header is blocked on the line by defender Ben Mee.

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"It is a ragged period for Liverpool now. They are starting to force the issue a bit too much. At the minute, West Brom are pretty comfortable."

Gylfi Sigurdsson has looked bright and clever for Swansea and the Icelander is a only a couple of inches of hamstring stretch away from dragging down a floated throughball as he bombs on past Wilfried Bony.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Steven Fletcher is capable of that. He has that ability in the air and there was not too much the Stoke defence could have done - you just have to hold your hands up sometimes. But Stoke are going at Sunderland again. I think there will be a few more goals in this one."

Are there any local school fairs or village fetes where Mario Balotelli can pass the time until he gets the nod from Brendan Rodgers? Liverpool look fairly limited in attack at the moment, while the Baggies seem to have an assured confidence about themselves whenever they are on the ball.

Getty Images

Former Republic of Ireland international Kevin Kilbane

Final Score

"Questions start to be asked of a manager when a team starts to perform like Newcastle are. At Southampton they were terrible and today the goal they have conceded is just basic errors. It was far too easy for Swansea to get the goal they did."

Swansea's opener has prompted some of the Newcastle fans to fish their Pardew Out signs from their pockets.

It is a bit like the final vote on Ready Steady Cook in the away end. Red Tomatoes or Green Peppers?

GOAL

We have an early contender for the top three on the Match of the Day running order. Sunderland retake the lead when Steven Fletcher buries a header from Jordi Gomez's cross at a short corner.

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It is pretty even stuff at the KC but the pace of Palace out wide, through Jason Puncheon and Yannick Bolassie, looks like it might be the key to break the deadlock.

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Football League latest

Only two goals to tell you about in the second-tier as the clock ticks past the 15-minute mark. Mid-table Brentford lead Reading through Spanish attacking midfielder Jota's strike and across London at the Valley, Igor Vetokele has put hosts Charlton ahead against Birmingham.

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Neil Barry: I'm a Liverpool fan living in South Shields and really feel for the Toon fans. The way the club is being run is a disgrace.

Kemlo: Newcastle really need to change something, whether it's the manager or the owner or both... they simply can't keep losing.

Blue moon in my eyes: Mario Balotelli. Provider of probably the most important assist in Man City's history. So always a legend for me.

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"West Brom are just starting to feel their way into the game. Liverpool need a goal because the longer they go the more the fans will start to get on their back. When you are at a big club, you need to be a big player and deal with the pressure and the expectation of fans."

Bright start by Leicester. Clarets goalkeeper Tom Heaton saves easily from Danny Drinkwater's tame shot before Jamie Vardy's ambitious effort cannons off Ben Mee and behind for a corner. Then a great save from Heaton low to his left denies Riyad Mahrez.

Up at the other end, Burnley's goal drought showing little sign of ending anytime soon.

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GREAT SAVE!

Simple stuff from Liverpool almost unlocks West Brom. Martin Skrtel drills a ball down the channel and Rickie Lambert gets in behind the Baggies defence but Ben Foster races off his line to make a fine save.

Football League latest

The towns of Stevenage and Luton are separated by just 15 miles and their football teams are just a point apart in the League Two table. But it is the Hatters who have taken an early lead thanks to Luke Wilkinson's opener.

There's another rivalry (of sorts) as the Shrimpers host the Shrimps in the Crustacean derby (sorry). Southend are trailing to visitors Morecambe, who netted an early goal through Jack Redshaw.

Elsewhere, Cheltenham and Accrington hold early advantages against Wimbledon and Mansfield respectively.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"There is no way Charlie Adam gets a goal from me there. We know the quality Adam has scoring from distance and you know you have to give nothing away. You have to close him down with with urgency and with John O'Shea's experience, that shouldn't be happening. A soft goal to concede."

GOAL

Swansea-lona stuff. Wilfried Bony lays the ball off to Gylfi Sigurdsson, spins and scampers into space. The return pass from the Icelander is precise, Newcastle's centre-backs react too slowly and Bony slips a simple side-foot finish past Tim Krul.

"Sacked in the morning" is quickly followed by a chorus of "Pardew for England" from the home fans.

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Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"I think (Liverpool manager) Brendan Rodgers will be quite happy with the start his side have made. They have looked good and their passing has been sharp. They have also tested the goalkeeper early on."

Gylfi Sigurdsson and Jonjo Shelvey are starting to make the midfield their own at the Liberty Stadium. Newcastle need the likes of Jack Colback to get a foot in.

Latest scores

GOAL

A superb response to going behind from Stoke - Victor Moses playing in Charlie Adam, who had plenty to do as he fashioned room for a shot which eventually went through the legs of John O'Shea and into the back of the net.

Getty Images

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Richard Parfitt: That Newcastle kit is really something. Tip: If you're not a soldier or a ninja turtle, green and grey doesn't work.

Christopher Riordan: There were moments last season when Rickie Lambert blew me away. For Soton and England. Hope he does great at Liverpool!

Ross Potter: @NathB (see 15:00) Darren Gough now lives in Swanbourne. Came out to bat in recent Chairman's Cricket game in skinny jeans and no pads.

SUBSTITUTION

Scott Dann is not going to recover from being flattened by a Tom Huddlestone shot. On trots Adrian Mariappa to replace him at the back for Palace.

Liverpool's turn to attack and Adam Lallana gets the better of Joleon Lescott before squaring for Rickie Lambert, but the big striker can't get a proper connection and the move fizzles out.

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At 14:49 in this text commentary, Craig, a Newcastle fan said he was hoping his team suffered defeat today and ultimately relegation this season to rid the club of current owner Mike Ashley...

Andy, London: re Craig in Saudi, 14.47, I'm appalled that any NUFC fan would want us relegated. I hate Pardew and the Ashley regime as much as anyone, but a ruined club cn't be preferable. We managed to avoid a Leeds-esque implosion the last time, but might not be so lucky next time.

Stephen, Newcastle: To the fans wishing relegation on our own club is just crazy. I saw a post from a gentleman in Saudi. To him I would say that is not the answer. Newcastle need to be in the Premier League. The fans need the premiership and the city needs Premier League football and the associated financial spinoff that comes with it. To wish relegation on your own team because of Ashley and Pardew is naive and short sighted. Ashley won't be here for ever....... Hopefully.

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West Brom are not afraid to fizz the ball about and they launch a raid down the right which ends with Cristian Gamboa winning a corner, which is punched clear by Simon Mignolet. Bright from the Baggies.

AFP

Don't get in the way of two-ton Tommy Huddlestone's best efforts.

Palace defender Scott Dann makes that mistake and the Hull midfielder's shot leaves him laid out flat, beckoning on the physio.

Dann looks to have had his knee twisted back by the force of the effort.

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John Kavanagh: Boggles the mind, Southampton sell players during close season for tens of millions and they have to get a train to play Spurs (see 14:55).

Harry Warlow: Liverpool fans so unappreciative of Rickie Lambert. Not many players worked harder in their career. Hat-trick for him today.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"It's as if Gus Poyet must have said something to Connor Wickham because all the Sunderland players are tapping their head as if to say: 'About time you scored one with your head fella.' Fantastic start for them."

Steven Gerrard stands over a free-kick just outside the area but pings his effort straight into the West Brom wall.

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Crystal Palace have their first effort at goal with Mile Jedinak wrapping his foot around a free-kick from 25 yards. He gets it up and over the wall, but can't generate the necessary dip to put Steve Harper to work.

Lukas Jutkiewicz scampers clear for Burnley but screws his shot wide of the Leicester goal.

FULL-TIME

Chesterfield faced a nervous finish against League One rivals Sheffield United before holding on to beat their neighbours for the first time since March 1989.

The Spireites added to their 2-0 half-time lead when Eoin Doyle struck in the 72nd minute, seemingly giving the Blades no chance.

But Marc McNulty pulled one goal back after 81 minutes, with team-mate Neill Collins adding another in injury-time to set up a tense finish.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has taken up position on the edge of his technical area, trying to boss things from the off.

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GOAL

Who had the fourth minute in the sweep (15:01)? Go and get the drinks in.

Sunderland take the lead at the Stadium of Light when Steven Fletcher puts a cross into the box and Connor Wickham steals in front of Phil Bardsley to head home from six yards out.

Nigel Roddis

Hull are out of the blocks quickly. Nikica Jelavic guides a header just over the top and has looked lively up top already.

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Henry: Come on Rickie Lambert! Time to step up and give Brendan Rodgers and the fans something to sing about! One goal and it could be your season!

Barneys Blarney: Like the look of the Liverpool team today. Three points needed before the international break.

Right, let's have a sweep. What minute will the afternoon's first PL goal go in? Winner gets a round in.

AP

Newcastle are rocking their questionable grey and green away kit today. It's not a strong look...

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NathB: Absolutely psyched to see Ossett Town on BBC Football (see 14:52) - Darren Gough used to live there you know!

Neil Lennon

Former Celtic manager on BBC Radio 5 live at Anfield

"Because Mario Balotelli carries this celebrity baggage with him this causes more of a fuss than it should. I don't have a problem with what Brendan Rodgers has done today. They have had a Champions League game and Rickie Lambert is fresh and ready to go."

KICK-OFF

Mario Balotelli sidles into the dug-out to take his place on the substitutes' bench. That can only mean one thing - 3pm is here and we're under way in the afternoon's five Premier League match. Let's do this.

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Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers and Newcastle manager Alan Pardew have come in for stick from supporters of late but they still have their backers...

Tom in Sheffield: I don't understand why Pardew is getting so much stick, he got them to fifth in the league a couple of seasons ago and then 10th last season, are you expecting me to believe that he's lost the ability to bring back that success? It's not all down to the manger, the moral of the players and the fans themselves play a massive part.

H in Kent: People blaming Rodgers need a reality check. Sturridge, Allen, Suso, Johnson, Can are injured, so it leaves an out of form Balotelli, Lambert and Borini to play up top. Markovic, Sterling and Coutinho are the options behind. Lallana, Gerrard, Henderson and Lucas are the options in the middle. Hardly the biggest pool to choose from! I would like to know who they would pick differently.

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How many boardroom big cheeses warrant a selfie?

Elton John when he was the head honcho at Watford? Roman Abramovich, if you can get past the bodyguards?

Several Swansea fans have decided that Mike Ashley belongs in that class, striding up to snap themselves next to the sportswear supremo.

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@ronaldkoeman

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman on Twitter: "Waiting for the train! To London!"

Saints take on Tottenham at White Hart Lane on Sunday. And a good thing too, because otherwise they really would be cutting it fine. It's a 14:05 BST kick-off that one.

The Liberty Stadium surface has gone beyond greasy to downright sloshy.

The Swansea groundsman has got the sprinklers on full blast with kick-off less than 10 minutes away.

Residents of south Wales, you know who to blame when the hosepipe ban kicks in.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Any player that is left out of the starting line-up is hurt. I am a bit surprised that Mario Balotelli's been dropped. His performances haven't been great but in terms of building the relationship with the manager, today against West Brom is a game that Liverpool should win and there would be opportunity for that. He hasn't scored the goals you are looking for, but it is a collective problem. By dropping him today, it suggests that he is the problem."

BBC

You can't say we don't bring coverage to all levels of the game. Here's a taster from BBC Cumbria Sport of the scene at Ossett Town, who are preparing to take on Kendal Town in Evo-Stik Division One.

Scottish Premiership

There are three games in the Scottish Premiership today, with Dundee hosting Aberdeen, Motherwell visiting Partick Thistle and St Johnstone taking on St Mirren.

You can follow all the action on our Scottish live text online now with Keir Murray.

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The pressure remains on Newcastle boss Alan Pardew, who remains a target for Toon fans as his side prepare to take on Swansea...

Craig in Saudi: As a NUFC die hard I will be hoping for a loss today, and every game until Ashley's puppet manager is removed from our once great club. After that I am hoping we get relegated so that we cease to be a free advertising billboard on cash cow. I support NUFC not the premier league. Lets go down and see ourselves rid of Cashley and co forever.

Join the debate on #bbcfootball on Twitter,81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

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Liverpool, Everton, Newcastle, West Ham - just four of the sides that are beneath Crystal Palace in the table.

Manchester United and Tottenham are only above the soaring Eagles on goal difference.

After the predictions of doom and gloom that accompanied Tony Pulis's departure, is Neil Warnock actually an upgrade?

Just putting it out there...

Former Republic of Ireland international Kevin Kilbane

Final Score

"Mario Balotelli is a character who will want to play games. His record at Milan was good and he has come in to score goals, but on what we have seen so far, he will be disappointed. His hold-up play has been good but his chance conversion has been letting him down. He doesn't seem to be running to create opportunities for himself. In the European Championships two years ago he was unstoppable. That is what the real Balotelli is all about."

BBC

Liverpool's brief is simple: clean sheet and three points. But that could be easier said than done against West Brom.

Football League preview

Down in the bottom tier, there are a couple of potentially cracking matches at either end of the table.

At the top, second-placed Wycombe are aiming to avoid only their second league defeat of the season against fifth-placed Northampton. And rock-bottom Carlisle have the chance to leapfrog third-bottom Hartlepool with an away win at Victoria Park.

With leaders Burton losing against Cambridge last night, any of Wycombe, Bury and Southend could take advantage and move above them. Bury host fifth-bottom Tranmere at Gigg Lane, with fourth-placed Southend hosting a Morecambe side who are two spots below them.

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Gus Poyet believes the best transfer decision he has made during his time at Sunderland was not to sell Lee Cattermole to Stoke.

The 26-year-old midfield enforcer looked to be on his way out of the Stadium of Light in January when, with Liam Bridcutt arriving from Poyet's former club Brighton, the Potters made a move for him - only for the player to stay in the north east.

"In transfer windows, it's the best decision I have made, I've got no doubt about that," Poyet told the Sunderland Echo. "I'm sure, with all respect to Stoke and to Catts, he's happier here."

BBC Radio 5 live

Former Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba has been speaking on the Danny Baker Show about the campaigning he has been doing, advising young footballers of the potential pitfalls of the modern game.

Getty Images

"It's about opening their eyes," he says.

"I just reiterate that you are not guaranteed to make it as a footballer. That maybe you are playing at 17 but when you are 21 you might not be picked any more. Some boys want to listen, some others feel they have already made it at a big club, with a big academy.

"You can only advise them, the rest is down to them. You have to guide them the best way that you can really."

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RG: Balotelli is more trouble than he is worth, I am a City supporter and was convinced he would cost us the title and Mancini his job! He didn't cost the title but not sure of the second. Good riddance.

Mo, Manchester: From 7th to champions league, from Suarez and Sturridge to Lambert. How the logic arrives I'm not sure. Rodgers has done it all wrong....once again!

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Ou est Hatem?

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Hatem Ben Arfa is still awaiting his first Hull start since his summer move from Newcastle. Hull fans young and old would surely rather see him in the first XI rather than signing autographs.

Still, it must be a nice rest for the modern football to scribble their name rather than having to gurn for selfies.

PA

Burnley haven't scored since the opening weekend of the season, but manager Sean Dyche is not too concerned - he's confident the stats show his side are doing well on their return to the Premier League.

"We look at games in many different ways, objectively with the sound down so there is no emotion to it," said Dyche. "Six games into last season, we had 80 efforts at goal and 40 on target.

"This season after six games in the Premier League we've had 72 efforts at goal and 37 on target which is a statistically higher amount.

"We're not a zealot to stats but, as I say, we use them to guide us and if those stats weren't as strong as what they are then we'd start questioning ourselves."

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Simon Ferocious: Esteban Cambiasso a big loss for the Foxes today. He's been superb so far.

Rezaa Sait: Why are Liverpool fans moaning about Rickie Lambert starting? Mario Balotelli had countless games to perform. He hasn't done that now has he?

Tsuelong: If Mario can't handle being dropped when not scoring for matches like this, better to know now. Predict a brace for Rickie.

Former Wales international John Hartson

Football Focus

"Brendan Rodgers has a good point about Daniel Sturridge. Liverpool pay his wages, they invest in him, he works with their physios and if he has missed games and then picks up an injury with England, he misses more games for Liverpool.

"In this case, I think Roy Hodgson is doing the right thing by not including him in the England squad."

With Luis Suarez still suspended, Daniel Sturridge still injured and Mario Balotelli benched, it is a quiet weekend for big-name Liverpool strikers old and new.

Reuters

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Suresh Liverpool fan: I think it's a good move dropping Mario from the starting XI . He hasn't given us the intensity up front and we have terribly missed Sturridge, not to mention Suarez. But our biggest problem is our midfield isn't firing as much as they did last season. We need to keep the tempo up and have the belief in going forward. We are nowhere near the finished article. Keep the faith... YNWA.

Matt, Wirral: I think it was the right decision to drop Mario. Square peg in a round hole. He holds up Liverpool's transitional play. Calculated gamble by Brendan that is unlikely to pay off anytime soon.

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Jesse Aarnikko: Don't get the fuss about benching Balotelli. It's just normal and wise rotation that you have to do when you play Champions League.

Orrin James Newbery: We play two up front all year and the one up front isn't working. Big game this for Liverpool.

Alan Ferguson: Something had to change. Simple as that. Good luck to Rickie Lambert leading the line today.

Mark Lawrenson

Former Liverpool defender on Football Focus

"He is not going to get anywhere near Chelsea's team. So you stick young players in the Championship teams (Bamford is on loan at Middlesbrough and has scored two in seven games this season) and watch them grow. I am a big fan of the loan system. The problem comes when Premier League teams loan to Premier League teams, but sending them down to the Championship is a good thing."

BBC Final Score

Final Score has just started over on the Red Button. Martin Keown and Kevin Kilbane are already chatting away and will complete a big-time move to BBC One at 16:00 BST.

BBC

Football Focus

BBC Sport

England U21 manager and former Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate: "Patrick Bamford is a good finisher, and Middlesbrough have quite a link with Chelsea. Boro manager Aitor Karanka has a close relationship with Jose Mourinho, and has good links with Spain too.

"They are strong this year Middlesbrough, and I think they can finish up in the top six, along with Derby, Nottingham Forest, Norwich, and the rest is very tight around that."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Cameron Laws: Why is Alan Pardew refusing to pick Facundo Ferreyra? No point taking players on loan to not play them, he's a talent!

Will George: Good to see Gas legend Rickie Lambert getting a chance ahead of the overrated Mario Balotelli.

FootyOgrapher: Rodgers got his summer spendings wrong, none of his signings have hit the ground running. Long season ahead for him!

BBC Radio 5 live

Former Wales international Dean Saunders: "Right now it's all about when Alan Pardew gets the sack. So if Mike Ashley came out in the press and said I'm not going to sack him, he's got the next game coming, then that would be that. You don't need the chairman when you're doing well. You find out how good your chairman is if you are struggling. If the generals and the colonels can't get it right, how can the soldiers win the war?"

BBC

"He's got one more game. If we lose against Stoke on Monday night then he's gone. I have had enough." Making a throat-cutting gesture. "Dead. Finished. Over."

That Mike Ashley eh? What a card.

The Newcastle owner said that his comments to a reporter in a late-night London bar were, in fact, a joke.

The punchline came when Stoke duly beat Newcastle on Monday night and Alan Pardew stayed in his role. I'm not sure that Newcastle fans are laughing...

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Mario Balotelli has been dropped by Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers for the game against West Brom at Anfield this afternoon...

Andrew, Richhill: WOW! Mario Balotelli has been dropped in place of Rickie Lambert, I can't see that one going down well with the Italian! For his own sake, Brendan Rodgers better have got this one right!

Harry, Leicester: Not sure what all the fuss is about, Lambert was brought in for these sorts of games and Balotelli being rested. Regarding Markovic, give it time.

Henry Dummett, Lewisham: Surely an out of form Balotelli is still more of an attacking threat than Rickie Lambert??

Join the debate on #bbcfootball on Twitter,81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

Team news

Esteban Cambiasso is missing while striker David Nugent is dropped to the substitutes bench for Leicester in the battle of the newly-promoted clubs. Jeffrey Schlupp and Riyad Mahrez start.

Burnley make two changes to the side hammered 4-0 at West Brom on 28 September. Stephen Ward makes his first league start since signing from Wolves while Ashley Barnes returns to the team. Ross Wallace and Steven Reid make way.

Leicester City XI: Schmeichel, De Laet, Morgan, Moore, Konchesky, Hammond, Drinkwater, Mahrez, Vardy, Ulloa, Schlupp. Subs: James, King, Hamer, Knockaert, Wasilewski, Wood, Nugent.

Burnley XI: Heaton, Trippier, Duff, Shackell, Mee, Boyd, Arfield, Ward, Kightly, Barnes, Jutkiewicz. Subs: Lafferty, Wallace, Sordell, Gilks, Keane, Long, Hewitt.

Team news

Gus Poyet brings Steven Fletcher and Jordi Gomez into his Sunderland line-up in place of ex-Manchester City pair Jack Rodwell and Adam Johnson as the Black Cats search for their first Premier League win of the season.

Mark Hughes makes one change from the Stoke City side that defeated Sunderland's rivals Newcastle on Monday night. Marko Arnautovic comes in for Mame Biram Diouf.

Sunderland XI: Mannone, Jones, van Aanholt, Vergini, O'Shea (c), Cattermole, Larsson, Gomez, Buckley, Wickham, Fletcher.

Stoke City XI: Begovic, Bardsley, Shawcross, Wilson, Muniesa; Nzonzi, Whelan; Arnautovic, Adam, Moses; Crouch

Football League preview

Someone has got to stop the Bristol City juggernaut soon, haven't they? Lowly Walsall are the next side attempting to derail the runaway League One leaders, who are five points clear and unbeaten in 10 league games, when they meet at the Bescot Stadium.

City's nearest rivals Peterborough host mid-table Oldham, while third-placed Swindon travel to managerless Leyton Orient, who are still searching for Cardiff-bound Russell Slade's replacement.

Rock-bottom Crewe, who have conceded a whopping 27 goals in their 10 matches, travel to Bradford aiming to cut the five-point deficit from safety.

Manager reaction

Leeds United manager Darko Milanic, speaking to Sky Sports: "We had enough chances to win this game. The Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper was extremely good. It is not only a question of scoring goals, football is also something else, it is fight and [today] I saw a good game, a good opponent. We were closer to winning the game but if you don't score and the goalkeeper plays so well it is difficult. The priority [now] is we know our movements better. This [job] is extremely important for me - it is something else."

Getty Images

Team news

Mario Balotelli is named as a substitute as Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers opts for Rickie Lambert in attack against West Brom. There is no place for Daniel Sturridge in the squad as the England striker continues to recover from a hamstring strain.

West Brom loanee Andre Wisdom is not allowed to play against his parent club, which means right back Christian Gamboa makes his first Premier League start for the Baggies. The Costa Rican is the only change to the team which thumped Burnley 4-0 last weekend.

Liverpool XI: Mignolet, Manquillo, Skrtel, Lovren, Moreno, Henderson, Gerrard, Sterling, Coutinho, Lallana, Lambert

West Brom XI: Foster, Gamboa, Dawson, Lescott, Pocognoli, Gardner, Morrison, Dorrans, Sessegnon, Brunt, Berahino

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Johnty Robertson: They say Brendan Rodgers is a great man-manager but I'm really not sure benching Mario Balotelli is the way to help him get over his form.

Ross Parker: Nothing wrong with Rodgers' decision to drop Balotelli for Rickie Lambert. Rickie was signed as an alternative and now is his chance.

David Pepper: Oh Brendan what are you doing! Mario is a good player, we're just not utilising him correctly!

Player reaction

Leeds United defender Jason Pearce, speaking to Sky Sports: "The new gaffer has come in and put new ideas across and we are working hard, getting closer to where we want to be. Today we were unlucky to find Kieren Westwood in great form. We will go again and hope to get the three points next time.

"As players we have to get on with things, it has been difficult, with loads of new players coming in. But we are all gelling as a team and we will move up that league."

Player reaction

Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper Kieren Westwood, speaking to Sky Sports: "It would have been nice to have nicked it 1-0 but they got the goal and probably deserved it. We are disappointed but it was a very good derby game. The result is a fair reflection."

Getty Images

We've got around 45 minutes until the Premier League kicks into gear for the weekend. Mike Henson's here to help me with all of that.

PA

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers on his decision to drop Mario Balotelli to the bench: "It wasn't hard. It's for me to use the squad. Mario has played in a lot of the games recently and Rickie Lambert has been excellent in training and has got better each day.

"He's got confidence and has been waiting very patiently but has been working hard to get that opportunity. It's very much about the squad. There's no player that can play in every single game. For him it's an opportunity from the bench and if we need him from the bench he can go and affect the game from there."

Hull City's 39-year-old second-choice keeper Steve Harper makes a first league start of the season, replacing the injured Allan McGregor. The only other change from the Tigers' 4-2 home defeat to Manchester City sees defender James Chester recalled at the expense of Liam Rosenior.

Crystal Palace boss Neil Warnock names the same side which beat Leicester last time out. It means fit-again striker Marouane Chamakh, who has recovered from a hamstring problem, has to make do with a place on the bench.

Hull City XI: Harper, Robertson, Davies, Dawson, Chester, Elmohamady, Huddlestone, Diame, Livermore, Hernandez, Jelavic

Crystal Palace XI: Speroni, Kelly, Dann, Delaney, Ward, Jedinak, Ledley, McArthur, Bolasie, Puncheon, Campbell.

Football League preview

Friday couldn't have been much worse for struggling Bolton Wanderers. In the afternoon they parted company with boss Dougie Freedman and then hours later they slumped to the bottom of the Championship table when Blackpool beat Cardiff. Today, they are aiming to put their troubles behind them and earn just their second win of the season when they host mid-table Bournemouth.

At the other end, leaders Norwich welcome newly-promoted Rotherham to Carrow Road for the first league meeting between the teams for a decade. With second-placed Nottingham Forest playing Ipswich tomorrow, Watford have the opportunity to leapfrog them into the automatic promotion spots. Lowly Brighton are the visitors to Vicarage Road.

Elsewhere, managerless Fulham travel to Middlesbrough having won their last three matches under caretaker boss Kit Symons.

So, that point lifts Leeds up to 11th in the Championship table ahead of the 3pm kick-offs. Sheffield Wednesday are ninth.

FULL-TIME

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live analyst at Elland Road

"It was a very good derby game and a very good contest. Wednesday will probably be disappointed they could not hold on as they probably shaded the second half."

FULL-TIME

Honours shared in Yorkshire.

A cross comes into the Leeds box and Giuseppe Bellusci slices it over for a corner...

CLOSE!

Gary Madine with a great chance to win it for Sheffield Wednesday as he expertly creates room for himself in the penalty area and gets away a shot which is too weak to beat Marco Silvestri in the Leeds goal.

Team news

Garry Monk makes two changes to the Swansea side that drew at Sunderland last weekend. Jazz Richards replaces the suspended Angel Rangel and Wilfried Bony comes in for Bafetimbi Gomis.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew also makes a couple of alterations to the team that lost at Stoke. Papiss Cisse is recalled in place of Emmanuel Riviere, while Gabriel Obertan makes his first Premier League start since March 2013. Remy Cabella drops out.

Swansea City XI: Fabianski, Richards, Fernandez, Williams, Taylor; Shelvey, Ki Sung-Yueng; Dyer, Sigurdsson, Routledge; Bony

Newcastle United XI: Krul, Janmaat, Williamson, Coloccini, Dummett; Tiote, Colback; Obertan, Sissoko, Gouffran; Cisse

INJURY TIME

Five minutes for either side to force a winner.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Ben Goodwin: Mario Balotelli is having a rough patch but benching him for Rickie Lambert? Not sure about that one Mr. Rodgers...

BBC Radio 5 live

More from QPR midfielder Joey Barton: "When you look at what Mario Balotelli contributes on and off the pitch, it was a strange signing for Liverpool. The city is not like London where you can disappear, Balotelli will stand out like a sore thumb in Liverpool.

"All of a sudden Daniel Sturridge is the talisman. He's had a history with injuries so you can't rely on him to be your number nine."

BBC Radio 5 live

QPR midfielder Joey Barton: "Lazar Markovic was poor against Basel but he wasn't the only one. He's come to a new league from Portugal where it's a very different tempo, and it will take time to adjust. Some will not adjust and will end up going back.

"But I was very surprised by Brendan Rodgers' recruitment, going into a Champions League season. Why did they sign Rickie Lambert? No disrespect to Rickie, he's a good player, but as a fan if you'd been told you were going to sell Luis Suarez and get Mario Balotelli and Lambert instead, you wouldn't be very happy. It will be difficult for Liverpool to finish top four this season."

Alex Mowatt has been pulling the strings for Leeds all afternoon and he slips in a ball for Rudy Austin whose effort finds the side-netting. Steve Morison is disappointed - if Austin had dragged the ball back, the striker might have been better placed.

BreakingBreaking team news

Mario Balotelli is dropped from Liverpool's starting XI with Rickie Lambert taking his place. Daniel Sturridge, coming back from a thigh injury, is left out of the match-day squad entirely.

AFP

SUBSTITUTION

A couple of substitutions to bring you up to date with... Sheffield Wednesday sending on Giles Coke for Jose Semedo and Leeds replacing Mirco Antenucci with Steve Morison. Meanwhile, Leeds owner Massimo Cellino is now on the sidelines - smiles and shades all round.

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live analyst at Elland Road

"It is a great finish. He just passed it into the bottom corner. Sheffield Wednesday will not be happy with that. It is a free-kick that is swung in and the defender just side-footed the ball into the net. Wednesday have done well in the second half and looked comfortable so they will be disappointed. There is surely going to be another chance in this game, but who is going to get it?"

PA

GOAL

Leeds finally get the goal which they deserve on the overall balance of play. It's a classy effort too, with Alex Mowatt swinging in a cross which is headed up in the air and centre-half Giuseppe Bellusci patiently waits for the ball to drop before side-footing through the legs of Jose Semedo and into the back of the net from 15 yards out.

PA

Football League latest

While Sheffield Wednesday are currently in the thick of a Yorkshire derby at Leeds, their neighbours from across the Steel City are also up against a local rival. But it is not good news for Sheffield United fans.

The Blades, who are among the favourites for promotion from League One, face an uphill task if they are to make the short trip back up the A61 from Chesterfield with even a point.

The Spireites are firmly in command of a tempestuous affair, which has seen each side reduced to 10 men, after first-half goals from Jimmy Ryan and Gary Roberts.

Blades striker Michael Higdon was the first to see red, before the sides were evened up when home keeper Tommy Lee was dismissed.

PENALTY APPEAL

Rudy Austin is trying to drive Leeds forward and he smashes a shot into Jacques Maghoma, who is positioned just inside the area. The home crowd screams for handball. Referee James Adcock is having none of it. A correct decision on second inspection - the ball hit Maghoma on the backside.

It will be a concern to Leeds fans that it's Sheffield Wednesday doing most of the attacking - Gary Madine's tame header easily gathered by Marco Silvestri.

YELLOW CARD

Sheffield Wednesday's Kieran Lee also goes into the book, for a cynical trip on Billy Sharp. This match has descended into a battle now. Not much quality on show.

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live analyst at Elland Road

"Leeds are getting frustrated. They are a young side and they need more discipline. It is playing into Sheffield Wednesday's hands as it is slowing the game down."

SUBSTITUTION

A change for Sheffield Wednesday too, as goal-scorer Chris Maguire, who seemed to be getting into a few scrapes out there, is hooked off and Jeremy Helan enters the fray.

Getty Images

SUBSTITUTION

As expected, Leeds bring on Billy Sharp for Souleymane Doukara. Young Brazilian midfielder Adryan, who is on loan from Flamengo, remains on the bench.

YELLOW CARD

It's all getting a bit heated now - both Gaetano Berardi and Chris Maguire being booked for a clash. That yellow rules Maguire out of his side's match with Watford through suspension. Moments later, Giuseppe Bellusci is booked for an off-the-ball incident. It's served to raise the atmosphere a notch.

Billy Sharp is getting final instructions from the Leeds bench. Expect the striker's arrival any time soon.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Phil Neville

BBC Sport

"At the Salford City FC v Bamber Bridge game today. We will be having a minute's silence in honour of Alan Henning."

A video purporting to show UK hostage Alan Henning being beheaded has been released by Islamic State militants.

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live analyst at Elland Road

"If I was (Leeds boss) Milanic, I would take one of the strikers off and have Billy Sharp on and then get a midfielder off and send the Brazilian Adryan in there. He is a young player, still learning but he can beat a man."

Getty Images

CLOSE!

Stevie May... surely? No. The tattooed and pony-tailed Sheffield Wednesday striker spins on a sixpence but drags his shot just wide of the post.

Leeds chairman Massimo Cellino looks a little fed up, high in the Elland Road stands. He has every right to wonder how Leeds aren't in front. His side's chief culprit? Forward Mirco Antenucci could have had at least two goals on another day.

Within a minute of the visitors taking the lead, Mirco Antenucci almost levels for Leeds but is denied by Keiren Westwood who is having a fine afternoon in the Sheffield Wednesday goal.

Getty Images

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live analyst at Elland Road

"It is the two wide men, who have been hit and miss so far, who are responsible for this. It is a wonderful strike from Maguire. They have maybe been up against it this half but they lead 1-0."

Getty Images

GOAL

Against the run of play, Sheffield Wednesday take the lead. And what a fine goal it is, too.

Good work from Jacques Maghoma ends with a cross being flashed across the box which evades everyone until it arrives at the feet of Chris Maguire on the edge of the area. The classy midfielder composes himself and lashes a low, angled drive into the bottom corner.

PA

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live analyst at Elland Road

"For those two chances (47 mins), Glenn Loovens was asleep. He's not come out for the second half yet. You can see this half that Leeds must have had a word because they have not been caught offside."

Text us on 81111

Tim, Marlow: I agree with Jenni (11.31) that fixtures like Leeds v Sheffield Wednesday would not be out of place in the Premier League. But a quick scan of the league tables reveals at least 25 to 30 teams whose owners and fans would claim are "massive clubs" and they can't ALL play in the top flight...

It just won't go in for Leeds, will it? Again Mirco Antenucci gets in on goal, but again Keiren Westwood makes a good save from the striker's low shot. They are knocking at the door - when will they bang it down?

Leeds have flown out of the blocks for the second half and twice go close. First goalkeeper Keiren Westwood races off his line to deny Souleymane Doukara, before Mirco Antenucci's hooked effort is cleared off the line. On both occassions, Wednesday skipper Glenn Loovens was at fault for letting Leeds get in behind.

KICK-OFF

Both teams have made half-time substitutions - Leeds replacing Casper Sloth with Luke Murphy and the Owls sending on Gary Madine for Atdhe Nuhiu. We're back under way.

Getty Images

League One update

Wednesday aren't the only Sheffield team in action this Saturday lunchtime. At a packed Proact Stadium, Sheffield United are currently being held at 0-0 by Chesterfield. Just 15 minutes gone in that one.

HALF-TIME

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live analyst at Elland Road

"We are looking for a bit more quality in the final third. Leeds need to know how to beat the offside trap and Wednesday need to keep hold of the ball. There are options for both sides on the bench so that may be where we can see a goal coming from."

Simon Brotherton

Match of the Day commentator at Liberty Stadium

"The knives have been out for a long time now and all Alan Pardew can do is try to dig in, block out the noise and hope the tide turns.

"It's all a far cry from just a couple of years ago when Pardew was named Manager of the Year as he led them to fifth place in the table.

"No such problems for Garry Monk and Swansea, who raced out of the blocks this season by winning their opening three games.

"They have stuttered in their last three but, unlike last year, there isn't the resource-stretching presence of the Europa League in the background."

Getty Images

Steve Bower

BBC Match of the Day commentator at Stadium of Light

"Sunderland are all too aware of the pressures and anxiety a winless run can bring - 12 months ago they had just one point from the first 24 available.

"Matters aren't currently at that level but they won't want the wait to continue much longer.

"Five away points from nine, including a win at champions Manchester City, are early-season reasons for Stoke optimism. You feel the way Mark Hughes' team play suits them on their travels."

Steve Wilson

BBC Match of the Day commentator at Anfield

"Everything good that came so naturally to Liverpool last season now looks laboured, forced and clunky and as a result another title challenge looks fanciful.

"West Brom have beaten Liverpool on two of their last three visits to Anfield and their 4-0 win against Burnley on Sunday ensured they won three consecutive matches for the first time in almost two years. If they're not confident now they never will be.

"Saido Berahino has notched three goals in three games, taking his tally this season to five - he'll be looking forward to playing against a Liverpool defence almost hamstrung with self-doubt."

EPA

Martin Fisher

Match of the Day commentator at the KC Stadium

"Unbeaten in four games, successive victories over Everton and Leicester have lifted Palace into the top half of the table. Make it a hat-trick at the KC Stadium and they could climb as high as fourth come Saturday teatime.

"Hull City have almost forgotten what winning tastes like. Their opening-day success at QPR is their only three-point haul since they beat Swansea in early April.

"Tricky trips to Arsenal and Liverpool come immediately after the international break so breaking Palace's winless run is imperative for Hull. It could be a long few weeks ahead otherwise.

Guy Mowbray

BBC Match of the Day commentator at the King Power Stadium

"If you're not a fan of either of these clubs, I acknowledge that this fixture is unlikely to be your main focus of attention this weekend. For all Foxes and Clarets however, this should be seen as one of the most important games of the season.

"In 2009-10, Burnley's only other top-flight season since 1976, they lost three of their four games against Wolves and Birmingham - the teams they came up with - both of whom stayed up. That's a possible nine points dropped by the Clarets in a campaign that finished with them five points from safety.

"The challenge for Leicester and their supporters now is to keep the King Power rocking for a game that might not be quite so glamorous as the recent visits of Manchester United, Everton and Arsenal."

Getty Images

Shall we preview our 3pm Premier League kick-offs.

HALF-TIME

Half-time at Elland Road. As Chris Waddle says below, Leeds have been the better side... but only marginally.

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 analyst live at Elland Road

"I think Leeds have probably had a bit more possession as the game has worn on. Wednesday have come off the pace. Leeds, playing this diamond, have found a bit more space but they keep running offside."

PA

Let me interrupt this Yorkshire derby to bring you some hot-off-the-press celebrity gossip. One of my colleagues has just been into the supermarket on site here at MediaCity, looking for some Welsh cakes. Alas, there was none. Apparently 20 packets had been snapped up earlier by a runner from The Voice. Why? Why? Why? We'll let you work that one out.

CLOSE!

These chances are like buses. We had nothing, and then...

After Leeds have an effort disallowed at one end, the Owls race up the other and Chris Maguire swings in a cross from the right but Stevie May heads wide from 10 yards out. Make the keeper work.

DISALLOWED GOAL

Leeds make a breakthrough when Rudy Austin slips in Mirco Antenucci who finishes well... but the offside flag was up. Close, but no cigar.

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live analyst at Elland Road

"What you are looking at here is wondering who will score a goal. There doesn't seem to be a poacher on show who can make a difference in the box. We are not seeing enough quality in either final third."

Not much happening at Elland Road after a fairly fast-paced start. Tommaso Bianchi tries to get Leeds in with a ball down the flanks, but Tom Lees is there to mop up the danger.

Vote result

Football Focus

BBC Sport

The results are in from the Football Focus vote and 68.95% of you voted clubs as more important, with 31.05% of you opting for country.

Thanks for voting.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

John Roder

Football League show commentator John Roder: A year apart in visits to Vicarage Rd for @BBCFLShow from just demolished to nearly finished.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Hull owner Assem Allam has a fascinating story which involves torture, fake bank notes and an awful lot of hard work. BBC Sport's Ben Smith went to meet him and has written a fascinating feature on the back of his interview.

John Kauffman: Allam is ahead of his time. In 10 years name changing will be common place, just like so many supposed holy grails in football.

Graham Wright: Given Hull's team colours, Tigers is a rather obvious name, would have thought also great for marketing.

Adam Sofroniou: If Allam wants to come to Newcastle and call us the Magpies I think I'd take that right now.

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

Souleymane Doukara is relieved to see an offside flag raised when his diving, unmarked header just inside the box goes well wide. A lack of composure shown there.

"Stand up if you hate Man U," echoes around Elland Road. This might be a Yorkshire derby, but the Leeds fans are making it clear who they deem their real rivals to be.

But the chance comes to nothing. A big build-up, with three players over the ball, but Chris Maguire's low effort can't get past the Leeds wall.

Free-kick to Sheffield Wednesday for Giuseppe Bellusci's foul on Atdhe Nuhiu on the edge of the area...

PA

Leeds appear wise to Sheffield Wednesday's early plan to launch raids down the right - putting two or three men on that flank, and it's seen the momentum switch to the hosts. There's a little lull in the action now, though.

Former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson

Football Focus

"The thing about England is that they don't do tournaments particularly well. Every one points to the Germany U21 team of 2009, and the six or seven players who went on to play in this summer's World Cup final. England have tried everything else, so why not blood the young players through the U21s and give them tournament experience that way?"

Former Wales international John Hartson

Football Focus

"When he was manager of Wales, John Toshack used to tell the senior players to watch the U21s, it was great for the young players, it gave them the motivation to get into that senior side. The prize is the senior side. When I was 19, 20, scoring for Arsenal, I wanted to be in the senior side. It's great for players like Luke Shaw if he can get two games in the U21s, fitness-wise too. But it is hard to come back into it once you've had a taste of the senior side."

Brilliant Berahino

Football Focus

BBC Sport

Getty Images

England U21 manager Gareth Southgate is on Football Focus and has been discussing West Brom striker Saido Berahino, who is the current top-scoring Englishman in the Premier League this season and has just been named in the U21 squad to face Croatia in the Euro 2015 play-off...

"He has been a pleasure to work with fro the first camp. We could see how exciting a talent he is. He has great pace and a superb work ethic. He wants to work at his game and stay behind to do extra finishing. He has every chance of making a success of his career."

Southgate has also been discussing the use of young English talent within the U21 and senior England squad...

"If the fixtures are the right quality and we don't think they will play for the senior team we think it is better for them to play for us than sitting on the bench for the seniors. I want to see young English players develop. We have exciting things happening and we have a depth of talent coming through at every level."

GREAT SAVE!

That was heading for the top corner! Rudy Austin lets fly from 35 yards out and his rasping effort is tipped over the bar by Keiren Westwood. Leeds taking control.

Leeds are playing a high line today, pressing Sheffield Wednesday back and the result is Alex Mowatt being able to steal possession in the middle of the park, drive forward and play in Souleymane Doukara whose angled shot trickles just wide of the far post.

A good chance for Leeds now, with a nice ball being threaded through but Alex Mowatt sees his effort charged down by the onrushing Keiren Westwood. The offside flag should have gone up but, still, that was a good opportunity for the hosts.

Sheffield Wednesday's plan of attack is clear - they are loading that right flank and another ball is swung across to the big man at the back stick but Atdhe Nuhiu can't take advantage under pressure from Sam Byram and the chance comes to nothing.

Former Wales international John Hartson

Football Focus

Discussing Jack Rodwell, who joined Sunderland from Man City in the summer.

"It's difficult to turn down a big move. Jack Rodwell will have trebled his wages when he joined Man City from Everton, but he needs games - 101 matches in seven seasons is not enough, and that is why he left Man City. Now he is playing regularly. Sunderland may be struggling for wins, but you can see why he has moved on."

Football Focus

BBC Sport

Discussing Jack Rodwell, who joined Sunderland from Man City in the summer.

England U21 manager Gareth Southgate: "For all young English players, that decision to move to a top four club is a better one to take when you are an established professional. It can be difficult to break in otherwise. [The move to Sunderland] is good for Jack Rodwell. He wanted to go and play football, he wants to develop."

Getty Images

The Owls are really hassling Leeds when the hosts have the ball, winning possession back once again and Chris Maguire puts in a good cross from the right which is headed over the bar by Atdhe Nuhiu.

Leeds are passing in nice little triangles, but lose possession to Stevie May who advances forward only to be crowded out on the edge of the penalty area.

PA

Leeds win an early free-kick and Alex Mowatt steps up but curls his effort wide. A bright start from the hosts.

Leeds are in their customary all-white strip, with Sheffield Wednesday kitted out in yellow with thin blue stripes.

FA Cup vote results

We asked you to pick your favourite from the eight magic FA Cup goals that we had on the website this week.

You lot were obviously spoilt for choice because it was extremely close - with Michael Owen's winner in the 2001 final pulling in 25.49% of the vote. This just edged out Paul Gascoigne's superb free-kick against Arsenal 10 years earlier, with that strike polling 24.9%.

We are picking 50 great goals in the run-up to the first round and you can watch all of our choices so far here if you are in the UK.

Getty Images

KICK-OFF

It's time for Leeds and the Owls to try and earn some Yorkshire bragging rights.

Manager preview

Leeds United manager Darko Milanic: "Normally this is a very emotional day for everyone. It's a derby and not a normal game. We are excited and motivated. They are very aggressive, very direct and very strong. We have to go to our limits."

Sheffield Wednesday head coach Stuart Gray: "Our last couple of games we have not had a win. It's a difficult place to come. We are full of confidence and hopefully we can get that win today."

Get voting

Football Focus

BBC Sport

In light of Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers asking Roy Hodgson not to pick Daniel Sturridge for the upcoming England internationals, we're asking on Football Focus what's more important - club or country?

Vote on the top-right side of the page or by tweeting #club or #country to @bbcsport on Twitter.

The vote closes at 12:40 BST and results will be read out on the show shortly after. Full terms and conditions are available.

Elland Road is rocking as the two teams make their way to the centre of the pitch through a tunnel of flags. Time for some handshakes, then it's down to business.

Victory for Leeds today would lift them to within a point of the play-off places while Sheffield Wednesday would draw level with fourth-placed Derby if they bagged the three points. Plenty at stake then.

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Darko Milanic is Leeds' 11th manager since they tumbled from the top flight, while Stuart Gray is Wednesday's 12th. Can either coach guide their clubs back to the top tier? Here is a view from Sheffield...

Tom in Sheffield: Sheffield has two stadiums in the top 20 largest in England but neither of the clubs that play in them are living up to their potential, this Wednesday side is the closest we've been to a Premier League club since 2006! 8 years ago!

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter,81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

So, Tom Lees is back in the Sheffield Wednesday side today to face the club who brought him through the ranks. Anybody reckon the 23-year-old has a look of Patrick Kielty?

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Our FA Cup vote is finished. Results will be with you shortly.

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Hull owner Assem Allam has a fascinating story which involves torture, fake bank notes and an awful lot of hard work. BBC Sport's Ben Smith went to meet him and has written a fascinating feature on the back of his interview.

It is well worth a read - and as for the plan to change the name of the club to Hull Tigers, is it such a bad thing?

Mark, Hull, via text: 'City' doesn't stand out! 'Tigers' can be marketed, marketing brings money, Premier League football clubs need money! Assem Allam knows business.

Montymadman, via Twitter: A name matters far more than the league you are in. I supported Manchester City in their darkest days. Manchester Lightning no thanks!

Liam Turvey, via Twiter: Hull is a rugby league town. Makes sense to change the Hull City to Hull Tigers would probably help with marketing.

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

Sheffield Wednesday head coach Stuart Gray welcomes Kieran Lee back from injury but Sam Hutchinson (back) misses out. Tom Lees has recovered from a hamstring problem in time to face his former club.

Sheffield Wednesday XI: Westwood, Mattock, Loovens, Semedo, May, Palmer, Nuhiu, Maguire, Lees, Maghoma, Lee

Thanks Richard. How is everyone? Pumped for the Yorkshire derby coming your way in 15 minutes? Let's start with the Sheffield Wednesday team...

Right, that's more than enough from me. Time for lunch. Guiding you through the next few hours - starting with Leeds v Sheffield Wednesday - is Marc Higginson.

Aston Villa v Manchester City (17:30 BST)

Having lost heavily in the opening two games of a malicious quintet of fixtures against last season's top five, Villa should be softened up nicely for the visit of Manchester City.

But the champions have been below their best since losing in Munich last month. Last week's win at Hull was more hard-fought than it needed to be and the midweek draw with Roma has left them with plenty to do in the Champions League.

Villa will smell blood and are further emboldened by the return from injury of talisman Christian Benteke, meaning it could be a fraught evening for Manuel Pellegrini's men.

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Dan Walker

BBC Sport

Great to have England under-21-boss @GarethSouthgate on Football Focus today. Your questions please @BBCSport @BBCMOTD @FA 1210 BBC1

Sunderland v Stoke (15:00 BST)

Sunderland have lost one of their opening six Premier League matches but they have yet to record a win. Boss Gus Poyet will not be alarmed just yet but the longer the Black Cats go without a victory, the more fretful he will become.

The visit of Stoke is not as favourable a fixture as it might appear, either, given Mark Hughes' side have taken five points from nine on the road this season. A solid defence and pace on the counter make them a team to be wary of.

PA

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Hull owner Assem Allam has a fascinating story which involves, torture, fake bank notes and an awful lot of hard work. BBC Sport's Ben Smith went to meet him and has written a fascinating feature on the back of his interview.

It is well worth a read - and as for the plan to change the name of the club to Hull Tigers, is it such a bad thing?

Philip Loycker: Hull Tigers or City does it matter? Being in the Premier League does though and that needs money. Allam has shown he knows how to make it.

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

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Team news

Two changes from Leeds United manager Darko Milanic as he seeks the first win of his tenure. Gaetano Berardi and Rudy Austin come in for Liam Cooper and Lewis Cook while Brazilian midfielder Adryan, on loan from Flamengo, makes the bench.

Leeds United XI: Silvestri, Byram, Bellusci, Pearce, Berardi, Bianchi, Austin, Mowatt, Sloth, Antenucci, Doukara

Still waiting for the Sheffield Wednesday team to be confirmed but we'll bring you it as soon as we get it.

Leicester City v Burnley (15:00 BST)

As thrilling as their 5-3 win over Manchester United a couple of weeks ago was, Leicester stumbled at Crystal Palace last Saturday and today face another promoted side likely to be scrapping with them to stay in the Premier League. These are the games in which they need to take points, or rather, deprive their opponents of them.

Mind you, Sean Dyche would surely rather be in Leicester's position, given Burnley sit bottom of the division without a victory. The Clarets need points and quickly if they are to avoid becoming detached.

Football Focus

BBC Sport

BBC

Football Focus gets going at 12:10 BST on BBC One this afternoon. Consider yourself officially alerted. Today there are interviews with Sunderland midfielder Jack Rodwell and West Brom forward Saido Berahino, while Mark Lawrenson, John Hartson and England under-21 boss Gareth Southgate will be in the studio.

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Darko Milanic is Leeds 11th manager since they tumbled from the top flight, while Stuart Gray is Wednesday's 12th. Can either coach guide their clubs back to the top tier? Can Milanic last longer than the 70 days survived by predecessor Dave Hockaday? What is it like to be a Leeds fan just now?

Jenni: It's sad to see a historically great fixture such as Leeds v Sheffield Wednesday not gracing the top division in English football anymore. It's about time these two clubs were promoted back to the Premier League, given the size of the clubs and their support base they certainly wouldn't look out of place.

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

Hull v Crystal Palace (15:00 BST)

His methods might be more blood and thunder than pass and move, but Neil Warnock's ability to rouse a group of players is not in dispute.

Palace are unbeaten in four league games under his command, with successive victories over Everton and Leicester lifting them into the top half of the table. A third win today at the KC Stadium could propel them to the dizzy heights on fourth by teatime.

Hull, conversely, are toiling. Their triumph at QPR on the opening day is the only time they have reaped three points since beating Swansea in early April. Steve Bruce has spent plenty this summer but he can't buy a win right now.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

This morning we're asking you which managers you think are under pressure at this early stage of the season, following Dougie Freedman's departure from Bolton.

Fraser: Lee Clark has been under pressure at Birmingham for years, but despite one home win in 23 he will never get sacked.

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

PA

Liverpool v West Brom (15:00 BST)

Struggling to score, failing to create and leaking goals... the heady days of late April must seem a long time ago to Liverpool.

Already nine points adrift of leaders Chelsea and positioned perilously in their Champions League group, Brendan Rodgers' side are just not right at the moment. The visit of West Brom would normally not be a cause for concern but nerves are jangling around Anfield.

The visitors arrive in fine fettle, too. Alan Irvine's side started slowly but have won consecutive league games against Tottenham and Burnley to sit snugly in the mid-table pack.

Leeds United v Sheffield Wednesday (12:15 BST)

Leeds have won just four of their opening 10 Championship matches this term but have lost only once in their last six outings to clamber into mid-table.

Sheffield Wednesday are a couple of points and places ahead but have won only two of their last six games.

Meet the 28-year-old Scot coaching in La Liga

SNS

Another interesting tussle in Spain today is the meeting of second-placed Valencia and reigning champions Atletico Madrid.

Did you know Valencia's assistant manager is a 28-year-old Scot who was coaching kids in his home town of Dundee two-and-a-half years ago?

His name is Rio and he gets pelters from the stands

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It's not been a particularly auspicious start to life at QPR for Rio Ferdinand. But, ahead of the defender's 500th Premier League appearance at West Ham on Sunday, manager Harry Redknappp has claimed the criticism of the former England international's performances have been because of his celebrity status.

"You'll always pick on the big players," said Redknapp of the 35-year-old. "I didn't see him make too many mistakes last week. He clipped a ball that got turned over and they ended up scoring a world-class goal. It's probably because he's high-profile. That's the biggest problem."

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This morning we're asking you which managers you think are under pressure at this early stage of the season, following Dougie Freedman's departure from Bolton. The man in the most perilous position now looks to be Alan Pardew at Newcastle. Defeat at Swansea this afternoon could be his last.

And what of the likes of Liverpool's Brendan Rodgers and Sean Dyche at Burnley?

Andrew: Brendan Rodgers is struggling to get the best out of his Liverpool side at the moment, he doesn't seem to be able to find his best starting team or the best system in which to fit them all in to. He is under pressure to produce after the performance of last season, but talk of his job being under threat is absolutely ludicrous. Modern football really has gone mad.

Leeds United v Sheffield Wednesday (12:15 BST)

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While Hull fly the flag for Yorkshire in the Premier League, what of two of the county's traditional big hitters?

Darko Milanic is Leeds 11th manager since they tumbled from the top flight, while Stuart Gray is Wednesday's 12th. Can either coach guide their clubs back to the top tier? Can Milanic last longer than the 70 days survived by predecessor Dave Hockaday? What is it like to be a Leeds fan just now?

Tell us what you think on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

BBC Radio 5 live

This morning we're asking for your input in tandem with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live. What we'd really like your help with is this - bizarre reasons why football matches have been abandoned.

Football Run: School game in mountains, heavy monsoon overnight, woke up to find half the pitch washed away in landslide!

John McEnerney: Arrived in Darndale, Northside, Dublin to find a dead horse on the pitch. Fixture never rearranged, home side thrown out of league.

Also in Iran a linesman was in a 20min standoff with a stray dog, the trauma of the situation caused the referee to abandon the game!

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

To Hull - and no turning back

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It should surely be all smiles in Hull at the moment - with the team strengthening significantly over the summer, looking a steady option in the Premier League and, of course, finalists in the FA Cup last season.

But, alas, it isn't. Plans by owner Assem Allam to change the name of the club to Hull Tigers has not gone down well. At all.

Allam has a fascinating story, which involves, torture, fake bank notes and an awful lot of hard work. BBC Sport's Ben Smith went to meet him and has written a fascinating feature on the back of his interview.

It is well worth a read - and as for the Tigers plan, is it such a bad thing?

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

Text us on 81111

This morning we're asking for your input in tandem with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live. What we'd really like your help with is this - bizarre reasons why football matches have been abandoned.

Scott, Birmingham: A wet and windy Saturday morning in the South Birmingham U11s League. A big game between Family Choice and Fruit of the Loom (our teams were named after our sponsors!). Match abandoned. Why? Because our manager didn't want to get his newly managed perm wet.

You can listen to Danny's show using the Live Coverage tab at the top of this page.

Paper review

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Arsene Wenger takes his Arsenal team to unbeaten leaders Chelsea for Sunday's big match and he admits in the Daily Star that last season's 6-0 thrashing at Stamford Bridge was the worst day in his 18 years as Gunners boss, even harder to take than the humiliating 8-2 loss at Manchester United in 2011.

Join the debate on the BBC Sport Facebook page

This morning we're asking for your input in tandem with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live. What we'd really like your help with though is this - bizarre reasons why football matches have been abandoned.

Edwin Ambrose: I was playing a football match for a junior club side, Regional United FC in Republic of Ireland about 18 years ago. A Sunday League side. We were away from home, the home side had only one match ball, it got stuck up a tree about 20 minutes in, lots of thorns and briars around it. Nobody could retrieve the ball, so the referee said: "Lads, I get roast beef once a week, if that ball isn't down in two minutes I'm going home."

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We're also asking you which managers you think are under pressure at this early stage of the season, following Dougie Freedman's departure from Bolton. The man in the most perilous position now looks to be Alan Pardew at Newcastle. Defeat at Swansea this afternoon could be his last.

PA

And what of the likes of Liverpool's Brendan Rodgers and Sean Dyche at Burnley?

Chauncey Mulderrig: Talk of Sean Dyche possibly losing his job at Burnley baffles and annoys me. He pulled off a miracle to get us to the Premier League, there is no pressure to succeed and he has the full backing of the board and fans.

Spotlight on Pardew

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He might bolster his belief by polishing his manager of the year trophy but there has been precious little shine about Alan Pardew's work at Newcastle so far this term.

A trip to fifth-placed Swansea this afternoon is a daunting prospect, but then playing away from St James' Park might prove more of a help than a hindrance given the growing dissent of the Newcastle fans in recent times.

Owner Mike Ashley remains publicly supportive for now but defeat today could leave the club at the bottom of the division.

Paper review

In an exclusive with The Sun (subscription required) Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke recalls the moment when he ruptured his Achilles in training and says: "I had never known what it was like to be badly injured. I heard it snap, it was very loud and it felt bad straight away - it was like someone had shot you."

The 23-year-old - who returns to the Villa squad for today's visit of Manchester City - added he was moved by the support of the Belgian public: "I had so many positive messages of encouragement. Belgian TV stars, singers - everybody was wishing me well."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC

This morning we're asking for your input in tandem with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live, where Professor Brian Cox is currently debating the definition of life. What we'd really like your help with though is this - bizarre reasons why football matches have been abandoned.

Karl Mcllwraith: We were thrashing a team when a friend hit a missile into the corner of the woodwork. Goals then fell down in a heap!

Robbie: Tranmere v Mansfield abandoned at half-time in 2003 when a man scaled a floodlight pylon and wouldn't come down.

Ryan Fletcher: Game got called off when a deer ran on the pitch and headbutted a player.

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

Paper review

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Terrific little tale in the Daily Mail revealing that former Sunderland and Middlesbrough midfielder Julio Arca now pays £3.50 to play for pub side Willow Pond FC. The diminutive Argentine - who made his last senior appearance for Boro in September 2012 - gets changed in a car park and is rewarded with a pint if he's man of the match. Sounds OK to me...

Coming up on BBC TV

Football Focus

BBC Sport

BBC Sport begins its television coverage of the weekend's football action with Football Focus, on air from 12:10 BST on BBC Two.

Then you can join Martin Keown and Kevin Kilbane for discussion and debate as the goals go in on Final Score, live from 14:30 on the Red Button and from 16:00 on BBC One.

Later, Match of the Day will bring you all the day's highlights on BBC One at 22:30, to be followed by The Football League Show, at 23:50.

Paper review

PA

In an interview with the Daily Mail, West Ham winger Stewart Downing says Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers "was the one manager I had problems with. I found it very difficult and the way it was handled - to come out in the papers and basically slag off your player by saying you don't try - that was poor really".

Downing, 30, says of his England career: "I'm probably most disappointed with the way it seems to have ended. I went to the Euros two years ago on the back of what probably wasn't a great season. But to go and then not be involved at all, I think, 'Why did he take me?' Then I play a lot better and I don't get selected at all. That's why I find it strange."

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This morning we're asking for your input in tandem with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live. What we'd really like your help with is this - bizarre reasons why football matches have been abandoned.

Ben, Horsham: This is my chance to name and shame the local referee Roy Hart. After 70-odd minutes of football he decides to book someone. Yep you've guessed it, game called off as he had forgot his cards. However we were losing so not all bad.

Jon Howes: AZ Alkmaar v Ajax was abandoned after the Alkmaar goalkeeper was sent off for defending himself from a pitch invader. The Alkmaar manager called his team off in protest causing the game to be abandoned.

Rob, London: There was so much rain one time a small lake formed on the football pitch and two swans had decided to start living there. We couldn't get them out so we just cancelled the match.

Paper review

In a Daily Express exclusive, Southampton legend Matthew Le Tissier says former Saints boss Mauricio Pochettino, whose Tottenham team face the south coast side on Sunday afternoon, has taken a "taken a huge gamble with his reputation" by moving to White Hart Lane.

Feeling the heat?

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Once this weekend's fixtures are out of the way, training grounds will empty as players disappear on international duty. What better time, then, to make a managerial change? Just think, by the time everyone returns it's all forgotten about and the new man has unpacked his novelty mug and hung his inappropriate calendar.

So who's under pressure? Dougie Freedman was among the most endangered but Bolton called time on his tenure on Friday.

The man in the most perilous position now looks to be Alan Pardew at Newcastle. Defeat at Swansea this afternoon could be his last.

And what of the likes of Liverpool's Brendan Rodgers and Sean Dyche at Burnley?

Tell us what you think on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

FA Cup vote

BBC Sport is looking back at an iconic FA Cup goal a day ahead of the first round proper, which kicks off in November (there will be 50 in total). So far we have revealed 16. You voted on your favourite from the first eight last weekend. Well, now you have the chance to vote on the greatest from the second eight on this very page. (Polls close at noon, and we will bring you the results soon after)

Lucky you if you're in the UK - you can watch all the clips on the BBC Sport website to decide on your answer before voting.

1. The genius of Gazza - free-kick v Arsenal in 1991

2. Arsenal's Sunderland stuns Man Utd in 1979

3. Woking's Tim Buzaglo hat-trick sinks West Brom

4. Michael Owen's solo effort wins 2001 cup final

5. Bobby Stokes and Saints stun Man Utd

6. Ian Thomspon helps Bournemouth shock Man Utd in the 1983-84 season

7. Ian Porterfield inspires Sunderland upset in 1973 final

8. Ray Parlour's 25-yard stunner in 2002 final

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

BBC Radio 5 live

This morning we're asking for your input in tandem with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live. What we'd really like your help with is this - bizarre reasons why football matches have been abandoned.

Richard Warrant: Game was called off before a ball was even kicked due to a car still smouldering on the pitch!

John Harris: Primary school match abandoned at half-time due to cows on pitch! Loose from adjacent field.

Dan Morrell: Goal posts fell over at one end! The defending team were most satisfied... but still abandoned.

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

Coming up on BBC Radio

BBC Radio 5 live

You can listen to live commentary of the Championship early kick-off between Leeds and Sheffield Wednesday at 12:15 BST.

That will be followed by commentary on Liverpool v West Brom, plus updates from around the grounds, from 15:00.

Later, Darren Fletcher and Robbbie Savage will examine the talking points of the day on 606, on air from 18:06.

Paper review

Other

Meanwhile, in the Daily Telegraph, Gary Neville writes glowingly of former Arsenal favourite Cesc Fabregas and says the 27-year-old midfielder "has elevated himself into an elite group of footballers and will be the architect of Chelsea's success".

Scottish Premiership

With league leaders Dundee United losing against Kilmarnock last night, and two games on Sunday, it's an abridged programme in the Scottish Premiership today. The standout meeting is perhaps Aberdeen's trip to face Dundee, but the encounters between Partick Thistle and Motherwell and St Johnstone and St Mirren (all 15:00 BST) carry plenty of intrigue, too.

Join the debate on the BBC Sport Google+ page

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is three goals away from equalling the Spanish league's all-time scoring record. Here are a selection of your comments in response.

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Zak Gilbert: It annoys me when Messi is overrated like this all the time. Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 10 goals this season and more goals than appearances for Real Madrid.

Zara Pather: Messi is the best soccer player in the world, Cristiano Ronaldo does not even come close .

Andrew Baker: Both are amazing but Real Madrid have the Welsh wonder Gareth Bale and the way I see it he outshined Ronaldo in the Champions League final last year.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

BBC Radio 5 live

This morning we're asking for your input in tandem with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live. What we'd really like your help with is this - bizarre reasons why football matches have been abandoned.

Kid Curry: In school our games got cancelled because of mole hills...

David Cormack: When the power went out at the Global Energy Stadium - Ross County's ground.

Aaron: My Sunday League game got abandoned because the ref's wife turned up and threw all his personal items at him.

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

Saturday's games

Four of the weekend's Premier League fixtures are not until Sunday but there's still plenty to sate your appetite in the top flight this afternoon. (Kick-off 15:00 BST unless stated)

Hull v Crystal Palace

Leicester v Burnley

Liverpool v West Brom

Sunderland v Stoke

Swansea v Newcastle

Aston Villa v Man City (17:30 BST)

Messi closing in on record

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Here's one to watch out for later...

Should Lionel Messi score a hat trick for Barcelona at Rayo Vallecano this evening (17:00 BST), he will equal the Spanish league's all-time scoring record.

Still, Athletic Bilbao's Telmo Zarra - who has held the record for almost 60 years - scored his 251 goals in 271 games. Messi has already played 283 times...

Paper review

Other

Time for a quick look at some of the papers you'll be reading over breakfast.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has been telling journalists that he does not believe there is any quick fix for his team's sluggish start to the season: "I think the pain is for now," he said. "I think it's unfortunate.

"It's hard for the supporters and I understand that. It must be so difficult at the moment to see a team that for 18 months has been so fluent and dynamic.

"Now they probably look and see a team with maybe no resemblance to that in many ways. I understand that and there is no-one more frustrated than myself."

Leeds United v Sheffield Wednesday (12:15 BST)

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The weekend's action begins in around three hours when Leeds welcome Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship's early kick-off.

It is now over 10 years since Leeds were relegated from the Premier League and more than 14 since their Yorkshire rivals slipped out of the top flight. So long ago, in fact, that Oxide & Neutrino were top of the charts at the time with Bound 4 Da Reload. Nope, me neither.

You can listen to live commentary from Elland Road on BBC Radio 5 live at 12:15 BST.

Red or brown?

Today will see the first of a new tie-in between the website and Danny Baker's excellent BBC Radio 5 live show, which started at 09:00 BST.

Danny, of course, likes to work his way through a series of different topics every week and his show features the legendary sausage sandwich game, which tackles one of the key issues of the modern age.

What we'd really like your help with this morning is this - bizarre reasons why football matches have been abandoned.

BBC

From the top ranks of the professional game to the mud and murk of park football, it does not matter. If you know of any wacky ways why games have been called off, we want to know them.

Brace yourself though, with Professor Brian Cox on this week's show we could get some highbrow answers.

Let us know on #bbcfootball on Twitter, 81111 on text (UK only), or via the BBC Sport Facebook page and Google+ pages.

BBC

We might have slipped quietly into October, but the season is still young enough to fuel fanciful dreams.

Maybe your team are surprisingly top of their division, clinging on to the hope that maybe, just maybe, they could stay there. Or perhaps your fears of a grim relegation fight have proved unfounded thus far.

With three of the current Premier League top four inactive today, fans of several of the 12 sides playing in the Premier League on Saturday will have scrutinised the table and deduced that a win this afternoon could propel them into the Champions League places. And, with an international break beckoning, they might even stay there for a couple of weeks.

It might be early in the day but let's enjoy every minute before reality kicks in.