League Cup and FA Cup as it happened

1. SF draw - Liverpool v Chelsea
2. Tottenham v Sheff Utd - ties over two legs
3. FT: Tottenham 4-0 Newcastle
4. Bentaleb, Chadli, Kane & Soldado
5. Worcester 1-1 Scunthorpe - FA Cup
6. Scunthorpe win with 32nd pen of shootout

An(other) epic night of cup football for us all to enjoy then. That's us out of here - see you soon for more football. It never stops...

Carl Heeley, Worcester City boss: "I'm so proud of the players - they were fantastic this evening. We took this right to the distance. I wish Scunthorpe the best of luck, but we've been outstanding.

"We've got to use this as a springboard to push us up the league and see if we can get a play-off place. We've got to produce week in, week out.

"The players have done this club proud this evening. The club has got massive potential and the sky's the limit for us. I'm a proud man tonight - the players have been superb."

Incredibly, that's the second 14-13 penalty shootout win I've commentated on in one season. Time to change the rules - you have to take it from 25 yards out...

Scunthorpe are only the third team from the top four tiers of English football to score 14 penalties in a single shootout.

Scunthorpe manager Mark Robins: "They pushed us all the way. But you're in it to win it and we ended up winning it. But I thought Worcester were magnificent, really good.

"And the penalties at the end were outstanding. We're in the next round but you've got to take your hat off to Worcester - they were magnificent. There was a lot of pressure on each penalty taker, but I'm pleased we're through."

Worcester boss Carl Heeley says. of course, that the penalty shootout 'was a lottery' and that he is proud of his players.

Scunthorpe will play either MK Dons or Chesterfield in the third round. They replay their second-round tie on Friday 2nd January.

SCUNTHORPE INTO ROUND THREE

Wow! What a shootout! The longest penalty shootout in the FA Cup before tonight was Macclesfield beating Forest Green 11-10 in November 2001 in the first round.

SCORES!

It is all over. Worcester City's FA Cup dream ends. Miguel Llera converts his spot-kick in the bottom left corner of the net. Scunthorpe advance into the third round of the FA Cup.

SAVED!

Advantage Scunthorpe. Too close to the goalkeeper, he dives to the left and parries the ball.

That's 30 penalties (THIRTY)

SCORES!

Thirty penalties taken, 26 scored. Above Vaughan to his left.

SCORES!

Weir scored once. And does so again. Bottom right corner this time.

SCORES!

Hawkridge picks his spot. Nerveless at the moment.

SCORES!

Very calm from Deeney. Waits for the goalkeeper to dive and slides it in the opposite corner.

SCORES!

Will it ever end? Placed penalty, into the corner.

SCORES!

He missed earlier. Scores this time. Above the goalkeeper. Penalty 26 coming next.

SCORES!

Maybe the best we have seen. Bottom corner.

SCORES!

Power down the middle. Foot through it.

We go round again!

SCORES!

Slocombe puts it in the bottom corner.

SCORES!

The goalkeeper scores. Not convincing, but in the net.

Goalkeepers taking them now!

SCORES!

Vaughan goes the wrong way. Next up is the goalkeepers.

SCORES!

The goalkeeper does not move, Hutchison sends it to his right.

SCORES!

Boyce keeps his cool. A centre-half, with a striker's finish. Above Vaughan into the net.

SCORES!

Into the roof of the net, straight down the middle.

SCORES!

It sneaks in. Vaughan gets a hand to it, but can't keep the ball out.

SCORES!

Down the middle but Sam Slocombe dived out of the way. Scunthorpe need to score.

SAVED!

Matt Sparrow wastes the chance. Low, weak, poor and pushed away by Nathan Vaughan.

OVER!

A short run-up and it is a horrible penalty. It goes miles over. Scunthorpe through if they score the next.

GOAL

We continue. Blasted into the top corner.

SCORES!

He holds his nerve. Powerful into the top corner, the goalkeeper had no chance.

Sudden death!

SAVED!

Down the middle, Nathan Vaughan dived to his left, but flung up a strong hand to push it away.

SCORES!

We thought he would blast it. Thomas opts for a soft side-footed finish into the bottom left corner.

SCORES!

Another perfect penalty. Powerful into the top right corner.

SCORES!

The goalkeeper goes the right way, but Weir's penalty goes above him into the net.

SCORES!

Perfect penalty into the bottom corner.

SCORES!

Confident from the skipper into the top right corner.

SCORES!

Short run-up, placed in the bottom left corner. Goalkeeper went the wrong way.

SAVED!

Sam Slocombe dives to his right to push the ball wide.

SCORES!

Straight down the middle. Hit as hard as possible. Goal.

SCORES!

Perfect from Geddes. Top corner. Goalkeeper no chance.

Here we go then, penalties. I'll reset the score to 0-0 for penalties...

A lengthy wait for spot-kicks at Aggborough thanks to an extended advert break. The pressure on whoever's going first will be growing by the second.

Ged Scott

BBC Sport at Aggborough

"The stadium announcer at Aggborough resorts to a Captain Mainwaring-style put down when a fan, clad only in a pair of red shorts enters the playing arena and holds up the game in the second period of extra time. 'Get off the pitch, you silly little boy' he proclaims."

Player reaction

Tottenham midfielder Benjamin Stambouli: "I think it was a perfect performance. We were focused on our opponents, we had that willingness to score and it came naturally.

"It is never easy even if you are winning 2-0, but we focused on our defending and then our attackers took their chances.

"All the club and all the fans are very happy. We will do our best to win this trophy."

FULL-TIME

We go to a shootout! The winners will face either Chesterfield or MK Dons in round three.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

George Frith: Get off Pardew's back. No Janmaat, Taylor, Santon, Krul, Tiote, Cisse, Taylor. Not to mention De Jong and Aarons.

Graham Hill: Nice for Liverpool to go into the semis as underdogs. It worked in the quarters!

Shaun Davis: Come on Worcester and Scunthorpe, give the public what they deserve - penalties!

Worcester star man Sean Geddes has got an injury. Can he take a penalty? That's all that matters now.

Manager reaction

BBC Radio 5 live

More from Brendan Rodgers: "Raheem Sterling was brilliant. I played him as a striker, but you get different types of striker. He's more of an Alexis Sanchez when he plays as a striker - he's not going to pin the defender. He plays in the spaces and he's got the speed to get in behind. A couple of great finishes and I'm very pleased for him."

A man runs on to the pitch in his pants. Not a decision to look back on fondly in years to come.

Two minutes from pens...

Final five minutes. Are we on for a shootout?

Can Liverpool kick on? Are they a very, very good side?

Manager reaction

BBC Radio 5 live

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers on the 5 live Football Social: "It was an excellent performance. I thought at Old Trafford at the weekend, while I wasn't happy with the result, I was happy with our performance and I think we carried that on this evening. Brilliant by the players, who showed a real calmness and patience with the ball. For 70-80% of the game we controlled it. Overall, it was a great victory for us.

"I think we had control of the game, but when you show patience, movement and technique as we did tonight then we are a very, very good side. Very good goals, and we could have had a couple of others - we created a few chances tonight.

"But credit too to Bournemouth, and Eddie Howe is a fantastic manager. Hopefully they'll go on and get promoted from the Championship.

"But from us it was a team performance. It has taken us a wee while to get going this season, but hopefully we can kick on from that. I'm pleased with the performance - we came here and we knew it was going to be a tough game.

"I'm very proud of the players and their character. We just need to keep this momentum going and push on. The objective tonight was to get through."

CLOSE!

It's all Scunthorpe. Left-back Marcus Williams beats a man with a tricky nutmeg but then blazes the ball into the side-netting when he had men available inside. Into the last 10 minutes.

CLOSE!

Scunthorpe so close to a winner! Football League stalwarts Matt Sparrow and Miguel Llera combine for the defender to power a header inches wide of the far post!

Manager reaction

Getty Images

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew: "Our back four was not quite as solid as it has looked, but if there was ever that cliche that 'goals win game' then this is it.

"Actually I thought it was pretty even up to Jak Alnwick making a mistake. Our performance level was pretty good but the score is what it is. That's unfortunate for the players who put a shift in."

Club World Cup

Getty Images

Real Madrid will face San Lorenzo in the final of the Club World Cup after the Argentine side beat Auckland 2-1 in extra-time.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

George Fisher: Liverpool might as well face Chelsea. If we can't beat the best teams, we don't deserve to win the cup anyway. Bring it on.

Warren: Spurs in the final for Chelsea. See you there.

Tom Miszkowski: Thinking the two finalists won't have far to travel. It'll be a London derby.

Some early motivation for the League One side as there was a huge cheer from Spurs' dressing room when they knew they'd face Sheffield United in the Semi final.

HALF-TIME in Extra time

Fifteen minutes from penalties. Everyone loves a shootout - right?

Cup draw reaction

Getty Images

Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino on the semi-final draw: "We have respect for Sheffield United - it is never easy. Yesterday they played very well and deserve to be in semi-final. We expect a tough game."

Alan Green

commentator at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"There were signs tonight, as there were signs on Sunday, of improvement from Liverpool. They will have to play a lot better if they're to match Chelsea, but arguably Chelsea's form has dropped just a fraction. And Chelsea's priorities are really the Premier League and the Champions League. But at the moment they are the best team in the country."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Michael: So, Chelsea versus Tottenham or Sheffield in the final then.

Neeks: Sheffield United for Spurs? I'll take that!

Sanj: Goodnight Liverpool. Spurs are going to Wembley!

Manager reaction

PA

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers speaking to Sky Sports: "It didn't matter who we got in the draw, it was just important to get there - to win this competition you have to win games against big sides.

"I thought it was a brilliant performance from us tonight, it was always going to be a difficult job, but we controlled the game and pressed at the right times and created chances. We thoroughly deserved it.

"Raheem Sterling has got some stick recently which I find extraordinary. He is a kid of 19 and 20 he has been outstanding for us. He may not have scored the goals that some people expect, but I expect him to score goals and provide assists over the course of the season.

"His best position is on the left but he can play across the line and has the qualities to play in a central role, as he has for our youth teams."

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"If you're going to win the cup then you have to play and beat the best teams along the way. Sheffield United might fancy their chances against Tottenham, but the draw of the round is Liverpool v Chelsea.

"Out of the three teams Nigel Clough would have wanted to face Tottenham. But Chelsea and Liverpool are two great clubs and it will be a wonderful tie."

Jose Mourinho's first trophy as Chelsea manager came in the League Cup, when they beat Liverpool in the final. A repeat on the cards next month.

Manager reaction

BBC Radio 5 live

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe: "It was frustrating for us. We were not at our best in the first half after an electric start. Liverpool kept the ball well and showed their qualities. But we showed our quality in the second half and that was the pleasing thing.

"A mark of our character and the players we have was that we kept going. We put Liverpool under pressure in the second half and on a different night we'd have scored more goals."

"The aim is to try and get into the Premier League and we'll wait to see if we're good enough to make it."

CLOSE!

Worcester go close to a second goal as George Williams cuts in form the right and flashes a shot into the side-netting.

Ged Scott

BBC Sport at Aggborough

"Extra time at Aggborough - and already something to take from the evening for Worcester City. They have now gone 90 minutes with League One opposition three times in this Cup run - and not been beaten!"

EPA

Not the draw Brendan Rodgers will have wanted then, Liverpool face Chelsea!

The first leg will be played in the week of January 19, with the second leg a week later.

LEAGUE CUP SEMI-FINALS

Liverpool v Chelsea

Tottenham v Sheffield United

LEAGUE CUP DRAW COMING UP

A reminder of the last four:Chelsea

Sheffield United

Liverpool

Tottenham

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

Getty Images

"Brendan Rodgers wants his side to be a passing team that will create a lot of opportunities. But you have to be solid all over the pitch. They are fantastic going forward, or were last season, but are poor defensively.

"You've got to improve where you're weak. If you're going to win leagues and trophies you have to be tight at the back. And Liverpool have not improved as well as they could have."

KICK-OFF

Back under way at Kidderminster. Can we get a winner or is it penalties all the way?

The League Cup Show

Missed tonight's action because you've been embroiled in Christmas shopping? Luckily you can catch up with The League Cup Show.

The programme will be live on BBC One (23:10-23:55 GMT), BBC One Scotland (00:40-01:25 GMT)), BBC One Wales (23:55-00:40 GMT) and BBC One NI (23:10-23:55 GMT).

CUP DRAW COMING UP

The League Cup semi-finals are two-legged affairs remember. We shall find out who plays who very shortly indeed.

In the FA Cup, it's extra-time for Worcester and Scunthorpe.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Demola Adebiyi: Where is Newcastle that beat Chelsea?

Tom Macdonald: This is what annoys me with Pardew. He puts a great run of form together then two poor defeats conceding eight goals. So inconsistent.

Tony Munky: Pardew out?

EXTRA TIME - FA Cup latest

Thirty minutes more fun and games at Aggborough to come. Judging by Daniel Nti's injury-time shot, which goes 25 yards wide for Worcester, the players are a bit tired.

But it has been a tremendous effort from the largely part-time players of Worcester City, who play in the sixth tier of English football, against a side three divisions above them.

Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling trots out the usual 'it's nice to score but the important thing is that the team got the win' line.

Adam Lallana says that 'Raheem's goals were always going to come.'

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

Getty Images

"Liverpool played well, but they really needed the result. This will take a lot of pressure off a lot of people in and around this football club."

Former Bournemouth youngster Adam Lallana has a good catch up with Brett Pitman in the centre-circle. Lallana played very well tonight.

BBC Radio 5 live

The 5 live Football Social takes place straight after final whistles around the grounds. What do you make on tonight's action? Have Liverpool turned the corner? Just how impressive have Spurs been? Are Newcastle in danger of slumping in form?

Get in touch with the programme - call 0500 909 693 (UK only), text 85058 (UK only) or use @bbc5live on social media.

FULL-TIME

FULL-TIME

PA

Job emphatically done for Spurs. Alan Pardew's trip to the funfair has ended with him being sick on the waltzers.

Don't forget that the semi-final draw is coming up after this game. Looks like it will be:

Chelsea

Sheffield United

Liverpool

Tottenham

FA Cup latest

Getty Images

Four minutes left of normal time in the FA Cup second-round replay between Worcester City and Scunthorpe United.

You can watch both of the goals from the game by clicking on the 'highlights' tab at the top of this page.

SUBSTITUTION

A rare sight of Fabio Borini in a Liverpool shirt as he replaces Steven Gerrard for stoppage time. Gerrard is roundly applauded by the home crowd too.

Text us on 81111

Niall, London: I'm sure Mike Williamson is a lovely guy but I've said for some time he is not Premier League standard. Whenever he plays our form drops, he scares the life out of me every time he touches the ball. I don't think he imposes himself on a game like any remotely decent centre-half would. I fear for us in the derby if he is playing. Saying that, given the last two games the whole team isn't filling me with any confidence.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Bizzo Bond: I've never seen a team with 10+ new signings play well in the first half of the season. Give it time, it'll come.

Eoghan: Liverpool go to back five for last 10 - if Chelsea do it, tactical genuis. Liverpool do it, it's pathetic.

Andy Butler: I would love to see Bournemouth in the Premier League next year. They play some lovely football.

What an effort that is from the semi-pros in Auckland. Top stuff.

In Bournemouth, Lazar Markovic shows why he isn't a defender by trade, gifting possession with an unnecessary backheel.

Club World Cup latest

An extra 30 minutes are being played in Morocco as it finished 1-1 after 90 minutes in the Club World Cup semi-final between San Lorenzo of Argentina and Auckland City of New Zealand.

Real Madrid players have their feet up (probably) waiting to find out who they will play in the final on Saturday.

AFP

Auckland's players celebrated their equaliser with a good, old fashioned Sunday League bundle (pictured).

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

Getty Images

"Bournemouth had a really good spell this half for 10 minutes and they needed to score. And they did craft the opportunities, They just didn't fall for them."

And now for an appropriately festive moment... Man City striker Sergio Aguero's Christmas tree has been erected:

@aguerosergiokun

I've not done mine yet Sergio. You're making me look bad...

Into the last seven minutes. All good for Brendan Rodgers.

GREAT SAVE!

Worcester City are so close to taking the lead. More excellent hold-up play from Daniel Nti before he sets up Jordan Murphy, whose powerful 25-yard shot takes a slight deflection but is heading towards the top corner.

But Scunthorpe goalkeeper Sam Slocombe gets his fingertips to the ball the push the effort wide.

Bournemouth will look back on those two first-half chances that they wasted and wonder what may have been. Between the two penalty areas the sides have looked pretty even. But one side has finished their chances well, one hasn't.

The Cherries throw on Brett Pitman up front.

Ged Scott

BBC Sport at Molineux

"Different mood at Aggborough all of a sudden. Just as in the first game at Glanford Park, City have come from a goal down at half time to equalise - and this time it is Sean Geddes, hero of the first round win at Coventry City. The place is bouncing again now!"

Liverpool are aiming to keep it tight now, going into a back five for the final 15 minutes.

Roberto Soldado is in for number five! But he takes a poor touch, forcing him to turn back on the ball and his shot is blocked. Take that first-time and he scores.

Newcastle play deadly rivals Sunderland at the weekend. Not the best week so far - they've shipped eight goals in north London already...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Steven Jerjian: It's not been the best of weeks in north London for Newcastle...

Sam Olden: This is more like it from Spurs! If only we could be consistent.

Jason Birnie: Liverpool are beating Bournemouth not Barcelona. About time people realise last season was a fluke - they are a mid-table club.

SUBSTITUTION

Liverpool add some steel in the middle as Emre Can replaces the skilful Philippe Coutinho. Lock it up.

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at Dean Court

"My word Bournemouth are giving this a real good go. Liverpool preparing to make changes with their supporters now very, very quiet. Wonderful cup tie."

Jermaine Jenas

Former England midfielder at White Hart Lane for 5 live sports extra

"I was a little worried at one point, when I thought Roberto Soldado might have missed his opportunity. But he showed composure. And that's perfect for Mauricio Pochettino, exactly what he needs - both his strikers scoring goals."

FA Cup latest

The home fans go crazy. And they have got easy reason to do so. Connor Gater starts the move with a backheel to Sean Geddes.

He plays a one-two with Daniel Nti, who has his back to a defender but does well to hold the ball up and knock it back to Geddes, who has run into space in the penalty area. Geddes scored twice against Coventry in the last round and he collects the ball and shoots past Sam Slocombe.

The Conference North side were behind in the first match, before fighting back. They have done so again.

Still 20 minutes left at Dean Court. Get one back and Bournemouth will scent a remarkable recovery. Liverpool look shaky every time you pressure them.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"I keep saying it - Liverpool look very, very good going forward but they're still very frail at the back. Bournemouth just need an end product and they'd have another goal."

HITS THE WOODWORK

So close! We are set for a cracking finish here. Dan Gosling shoots from the edge of the box, leans back and smacks it against the post. So unlucky. The follow -up squeaks across the face of goal.

GOAL

Reuters

"Wem-ber-lee, Wem-ber-lee!" That's what the Tottenham fans are singing at a noisy White Hart Lane now. And Roberto Soldado is even crashing the goalscoring party. The Spaniard pounces on a loose save from young Newcastle keeper Jak Alnwick to stroke in the fourth. Are Spurs going to fill their boots now?

Text us on 81111

Paul, Histon (Cambs): Liverpool are going to need to bring a quality goalkeeper in during the January window. Mignolet and Jones both worryingly gaffe-prone.

Andrew, Richhill: Liverpool should have been much wiser when re-investing their £100 million in the summer. A top-class goalkeeper and two forwards were needed. Lloris, Alexis Sanchez and Bony were the men Liverpool needed to go out and get.

SUBSTITUTION

No hat-trick for Harry Kane tonight - he's replaced by Roberto Soldado. What a performance again from the big man.

CLOSE!

Raheem Sterling! Should have been a hat-trick! Terrible finish from the forward after a delightful flick from Adam Lallana teed him up, whole goal to aim at, does the keeper with the eyes but drags a shot wide. Six yards out. GOT to hit the target.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"That could have been a penalty to Bournemouth, then the header to the far post was so nearly a goal. That's two incidents in two minutes that should give Bournemouth hope that they can get back into this game."

CLOSE!

Bournemouth have a decent penalty shout as Mamadou Sakho clashes with Callum Wilson, play is waved on and after Brad Jones dithers on the line, Ryan Fraser heads back across goal - just wide. That was more clumsy goalkeeping, and almost a route back into the tie for the Cherrries.

Still 25 minutes to go. All sorts of time.

FA Cup latest

Did you know Sean Geddis's day job sees him working in a factory making parts for Lewis Hamilton's Formula 1 car?

Geddis was Worcester City's hero in the last round with two goals against Coventry, and he nearly grabs an equaliser for the non-league team but his low drive is safely held by Sam Slocombe.

It is a confidence-boosting moment for the Scunthorpe goalkeeper after he had earlier fumbled Jordan Murphy's low shot after the striker had ran with the ball from inside his own half. But, luckily for the visitors, a defender got to the loose ball before Murphy could do. Scunthorpe still 1-0 ahead with 30 minutes left.

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at Dean Court

"Now then. There is life in this tie yet thanks to some nifty footwork and a neat finish from Dan Gosling. Just over 30 minutes to play here at Dean Court - which has livened up significantly. One more would make things very, very interesting."

GOAL

Getty Images

This boy knows where the net is! Harry Kane continues to grab the headlines and it's a cracking old-fashioned centre-forward's goal. He never looks like he has the ball totally under control but gets away from Mike Willamson and scuffs the ball back across goal to find the net. How good is Harry Kane? He keeps on scoring...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Nathan Coleclough: Well at least Jones didn't dive the wrong way this time... Still a terrible goalkeeping error!

Andy Butler: Ironically Mignolet, the shot stopper, would probably have saved that one. Dreading us doing a Palace...!

Edward Herbert: Stambouli is very much the unsung hero for Spurs tonight. Fantastic player.

Bournemouth yet to test Brad Jones since that soft goal. Get the ball in the box? It's not their style. The days of man mountain Steve Fletcher are long gone at Dean Court.

Text us on 81111

Aidan, Belfast: I am feeling optimistic for Spurs' success this season. We have not set the world on fire but are in a semi, just about to get into top four and into European knockouts. Not bad considering our poor play.

CLOSE!

End-to-end stuff at White Hart Lane. This time it is the hosts who go close, as Christian Eriksen shapes up to shoot from 30 yards. The Dane's shot dips and swerves in front of Newcastle keeper Jak Alnwick, who does well to beat out the ball.

Two more home chances arrive quickly. Newcastle defender Paul Dummett sliding to clear a teasing cross over his bar, before Jan Vertonghen's header is cleared off the line by Massadio Haidara.

Club World Cup latest

New Zealand side Auckland City have equalised in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup against San Lorenzo from Argentina. There are 20 minutes remaining in Morocco.

The leveller came from Spanish centre-half Angel Berlanga and the winners face Real Madrid in Saturday's final.

Half an hour for Bournemouth to score twice. Will that goal, and the shoddy manner in which it was conceded, shake Liverpool?

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

PA

"It looks at though the goalkeeper should do better there. But it's brilliant for Bournemouth and brilliant for the game. It keeps this alive. When was Liverpool's last clean sheet?"

GOAL

Getty Images

Brad Jones! Terrible from the Liverpool stand-in keeper as he somehow lets Dan Gosling's shot go through him. Drilled in left-footed from 12 yards, should be easily held. A big moment for the ex-Everton midfielder, but that was more rank goalkeeping in a Liverpool shirt. Come back Pepe Reina...

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at Dean Court

"That second goal from Raheem Sterling has surely finished this tie off and it could now be about damage limitation for Eddie Howe's men. Bournemouth have not been able to cope with Liverpool speed and movement tonight - a masterclass from the Reds."

Text us on 81111

Phil, Liverpool: Pre-game people talking up chances of an upset, now everyone talking down the opposition. Haters gonna hate (Rodgers and Reds).

Simon, Shropshire: Same old story when LFC struggle everybody shouts to sack the manager. When he does his job and starts to turn it round you get on his back for that. Come on red men get behind the team and prove the doubters wrong.

Jonny, Nottingham: What's with all the criticism of Bournemouth? You can only beat what's in front of you and Bournemouth are a good team.

WHAT A MISS!

How has that stayed out! Newcastle nearly back in the game as Ayoze Perez weaves into the box from out on the right, he looks up and drills the ball across goal but Remy Cabella somehow side-foots wide from what, four yards out? He had an open goal!

Alan Green

commentator at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"Tony Pulis, can you think of an occasion when Liverpool have let a three goal lead slip?"

5 May 2014...

A big confidence boost Aamir. You can see it already, as Lazar Markovic embarks on a jinking 45-yard run from the left before seeing his final ball blocked.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Conor McMeekin: The mighty Liverpool, reduced to celebrating against Bournemouth.

Aamir Mir: Even if it's just Bournemouth, the performance can be a confidence booster. At least I hope so!

Harrison Taylor: Why hasn't Rodgers taken off Gerrard? He needs to be rested!

SUBSTITUTION

Double change for Bournemouth. Yann Kermorgant and Junior Stanislas come off, with Harry Arter and Ryan Fraser on. Big ask from here.

European update

AFP

It has been another disappointing day for Borussia Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp. His side were five minutes away from a vital Bundesliga victory, but conceded an 85th-minute equaliser to drop two points at home to Wolfsburg.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's goal gave Dortmund an early lead, before Kevin De Bruyne levelled for Wolfsburg.

Ciro Immobile restored Dortmund's lead late in the second half, before Naldo scored the visitors' second with a header with five minutes left.

Dortmund have now only won four of 16 Bundesliga matches this season.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"Again, Bournemouth give the ball away so easily in the middle of the pitch, and it's two passes from Liverpool and the ball is in the net. That's it, game over. And Bournemouth need to be careful now that they don't just get pulled to pieces."

GOAL

Reuters

Clinical, clinical stuff from Raheem Sterling. If he had finished like this at the weekend it may have been a different story. Again Bournemouth are their own worst enemies though, losing the ball high up the pitch and then leaving midfield empty for a swift Liverpool counter. The ball comes to Sterling, he twists and turns inside the area, leading Tommy Elphick a merry dance, before sliding a shot into the far corner.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"Eddie Howe is staying with the same shape and system. So they have to keep the ball and get a pass off, which will them give the opportunity to switch play.

"But already they're giving the ball away too easily. Do that against these top teams and they'll be right down your throat. And Bournemouth simply cannot concede another goal."

Lazar Markovic almost pokes home a corner as Liverpool make a sprightly start to the second half. Liverpool looking good for a place in the last four.

Jermaine Jenas

Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder on 5 live sports extra

Reuters

"That's sloppy from Newcastle. To come out at start of the second half, when you're still in the game, and allow Nacer Chadli to shoot is poor."

GOAL

Reuters

What a start! Thirty-six seconds after the restart Spurs double their lead, Nacer Chadli picking the ball up 25 yards out, moving inside and hitting a precise shot right into the corner. It wasn't the world's most powerful strike but it was measured to perfection. Hit the side-netting in fact. Can't save those.

KICK-OFF

AP

Back under way in our three games of the night.

SUBSTITUTION

Liverpool make a half-time change as Mamadou Sakho replaces Dejan Lovren.

Is that a bit harsh from Steve? This is the leading side in the Championship after all. Maybe the Cherries can give Liverpool something to ponder in the second half - the players are out now.

Text us on 81111

Dave, Wirral: Brendan Rodgers happy to play at this level. Champions League way above his experience.

Steve Huish, Surbiton: Guys, I hate to burst the Liverpool bubble but you are playing Bournemouth.

Ian, York: Gerrard looks well in command at this level.

Wrong whistle

Interesting half-time replay there as Bournemouth defender Tommy Elphick seemed to switch off in the build-up to Liverpool's second goal. The replay picks out a whistle in the crowd, with Elphick remonstrating with the officials in the aftermath.

A timely lesson there. Play to the whistle. But always play to the correct whistle.

Ged Scott

BBC Sport at Aggborough

Getty Images

"It's been a fabulous atmosphere throughout the first half at Aggborough. The City fans have been in great voice on this their first big night in their adopted home, but the mood has now been totally shattered just seconds before the half-time whistle by Scunny's opening goal. City manager Carl Heeley has a job on now to lift his team."

A reminder that the draw for the League Cup semi-finals is coming up after tonight's games. Will Liverpool and Newcastle be joining Sheffield United and Chelsea in the last four? Or can Bournemouth and Newcastle rally from behind?

FA Cup latest

So the Conference North side trail 1-0 at half-time after Paddy Madden's deflected header gave Scunthorpe the lead.

Both sides had chances before then with Worcester's Tyler Weir clearing off the goalline early on before the hosts got back into it and they went close through Jordan Murphy, Mike Symons and Sean Geddes.

But Madden's 45th-minute goal is the difference at the moment.

Jermaine Jenas

Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder on 5 live sports extra

"One mistake is the difference between the two teams. Newcastle skipper Fabricio Coloccini put his arm around young keeper Jak Alnwick as they go down the tunnel. I'm sure he's saying 'we're behind you, we're a team'."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

PA

Grant Payne: Everyone criticising Rodgers need to take a step back - where else other than from Rodgers would Liverpool have got this swagger?

Chris Abrehart: Rodgers is one of the world's best young managers. Give him time.

Matt Rodway: Loving Kolo Toure's old skool new balance boots - retro!

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

Getty Images

"I've enjoyed this, it's a good gamer. Eddie Howe has got to sort one of two things out, and they need to press Liverpool more, if for no other treason than getting the crowd on their side. But if you give Liverpool time and space they will play at the tempo they want. It's up to Howe to change things."

GOAL

Getty Images

In the second minute of first-half stoppage time League One side Scunthorpe take the lead. A corner from the right wing finds an unmarked Paddy Madden and he flicks a header goalwards. The ball deflects off Worcester captain Ellis Deeney, hits the underside of the crossbar and bounces in.

HALF-TIME

HALF-TIME

Brendan Rodgers beams as his side come off the field. An excellent 45 minutes for the Reds.

Yoan Gouffran hasn't got his angles right tonight. Get him a half-time protractor. Minutes after that woeful backpass, he arrives on a left-wing cross but leans back and slams a shot high and hopelessly wide.

Jermaine Jenas

Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder on 5 live sports extra

"It's clumsy. Harry Kane knows what he is doing, stepping up the pace as he goes past Coloccini and hoping to tangle legs. It could easily have been given. I'd want a penalty if that was me."

Club World Cup

Getty Images

The Pope is a happy man at the moment.

Pope Francis has been a loyal supporter of Argentine side San Lorenzo since his childhood and his team hold a 1-0 lead against New Zealand's Auckland City in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup after a goal in first-half stoppage-time from Pablo Barrientos.

The winners of this match face Real Madrid in Saturday's final in Morocco.

Want to know more about San Lorenzo? Of course you do. Tim Vickery's blog will give you all the information you need.

PENALTY APPEAL

Getty Images

Harry Kane is everywhere. An all-action player, he drives around the outside of Fabricio Coloccini and goes down inside the area. Penalty? Nothing given. Kane went down easily against Swansea at the weekend and that was a bit elaborate again. Coloccini did have a hand on his shoulder though...

Bournemouth growing back into the game, but their play is littered with far too many sloppy passes. As TP says though, get a goal back and we're all on. That Liverpool defence doesn't instil anyone with any confidence.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

Reuters

"Bournemouth have had two great chances, as good as any Liverpool have created. They just need to stay steady and see of they can get a goal back. Get a goal, and this game completely changes."

CLOSE!

Another shocking individual error from a Newcastle player! Yoan Gouffran, attacking on the right wing, inexplicably plays it 40 yards behind him to send Harry Kane in on goal at the other end! Kane is isolated, alone, but drives on and hits a hammer shot from 25 yards, skimming the far post. Lovely strike.

FA Cup latest

Could we be seeing a cup upset at Aggborough? Worcester, who are ninth in the Conference North - the sixth tier of English football - have enjoyed a fine spell against their League One opponents Scunthorpe.

There are more than 4,000 fans packed into the ground and the majority of them start celebrating, thinking they have seen the game's first goal.

Getty Images

But they are left disappointed as Daniel Nti, who scored in the first match, shoots into the side netting with a loud roar coming from the fans, who thought the effort had gone in. The hosts then have another chance, but Mike Symons hooks the ball over from 15 yards out.

Jermaine Jenas

Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder on 5 live sports extra

"Newcastle could be well in this game. The way they're playing is not like a team which is 1-0 down. Newcastle midfielder Moussa Sissoko is causing problems for Tottenham with his driving runs."

Liverpool have had 73% of the play thus far, and Steven Gerrard is dictating play from that deep role, just like last season. Bournemouth haven't read the memo that was sent round - get tight and stop him at source!

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Getty Images

Jordan Mundy-Gill: There's a really good player hiding somewhere within Lazar Markovic. Huge potential.

Rishabh Kapoor: As Sterling got his goal, Rodgers looked as happy as it were a Champions League final. Relax, It's only Bournemouth.

Porl Thomas: At least now we know that if Brendan Rodgers get us relegated we'll be coming straight back up...!

Text us on 81111

Russel in Torquay: Re Jay (20:00) - England call up for Harry Kane? I have to say I've never seen anything from him to convince me he's anything other than an enthusiastic chancer. He'll be playing in the Championship inside two years, guaranteed - more his level.

WHAT A MISS!

My word! Bournemouth with a gilt-edged, gold-plated chance to pull a goal back and Yann Kermorgant wastes it horribly. With all the time he could ask for, the former Leicester forward drills high over the top from eight yards out. Head-in-hands moment.

That's two huge chances wasted in front of goal for Bourenmouth. You can't do that against top sides.

Still pretty even at White Hart Lane. One goalkeeping save at one end and one goalkeeping clanger at the other. That's all that separates the sides.

Text us on 81111

George: Was that Sterling goal more passes than Argentina's goal at the 2006 World Cup?

Tim: How many passes were there in the build up to the Sterling goal? Can somebody count them please?

I heard a whispered '52' from across the desk but we're not exactly sure - if anyone can tell us we'd be mighty glad to hear from you.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

Getty Images

"Liverpool have been completely dominant. Bournemouth have not got anywhere near them. Look at the shape of the two teams - Liverpool have seen so much more of the ball. Apart form the first few minutes, when they were watching the play so quickly, and I don't think Bournemouth have been back in the opposition box."

GOAL

Getty Images

Impressive. Most impressive.

Liverpool have started this game with a swagger that belies their recent form, and they crown another smart move with a fine goal. Philippe Coutinho finds space down the left, he cuts in to test Artur Boruc with a low shot, the ball spins out to Lazar Markovic 15 yards out, and he has the composure to side-foot home his first goal for Liverpool. Is that game over?

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at Dean Court

"A simply stunning team goal from Liverpool has stunned Dean Court - apart from the few thousand Liverpool fans sat to our left here who are now buoyant. Bournemouth struggling to get hold of the ball, it's something they're not used to and Eddie Howe may have to change things about here."

Jermaine Jenas

Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder on 5 live sports extra

"Newcastle are probing here. Tottenham have gone ahead and should be controlling this. But they are not keeping the ball and making Newcastle work. Frustrating for the home fans."

That is Raheem Sterling's first goal since September. As overdue as some of my library books, and perhaps he is best suited to a place up front after all. All credit to Jordan Henderson for the headed assist though, not an easy one to pick out.

FA Cup latest

Ged Scott

BBC Sport at Aggborough

BBC

It is a packed crowd at Aggborough and the home fans are making sure they enjoy every moment of their cup run. A version of Manchester City's Poznan is seen from the supporters, and they nearly have even more to cheer about when Jordan Murphy finds some space in the penalty area, but can only shoot off target.

Still goalless after 20 minutes in the FA Cup second-round replay. It has to be settled tonight, so those home fans may well be seeing extra-time and penalties later on.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Paul Harris: A disastrous two minutes for the underdogs in the League Cup...

ScoopeX: Pass and move, that was the Liverpool groove.

MJC1973: Reduction in friction from Sterling's new haircut helped that header in!

Bournemouth had an excellent opening four minutes. But since then they have been chasing the shadows of the men in yellow. A lesson in ball manipulation thus far from Brendan Rodgers' side. This could be a real confidence booster for the Premier League giants.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"Bournemouth have got a problem, because of Liverpool's system. Liverpool are simply outnumbering them in attack, and Bournemouth are not getting close enough.

"It will be tough now for the hosts, because Liverpool will keep the ball and Bournemouth will have to chase."

Chance for Newcastle to hit back almost immediately! Somehow French striker Emmanuel Riviere, who has netted just twice since arriving from Monaco in the summer, heads wide of the Spurs goal when unmarked. Unforgivable.

GOAL

Getty Images

New haircut does the trick! Raheem Sterling heads Liverpool ahead at the climax of a cracking move. Lazar Markovic swings in a ball from the left, opposite wing-back Jordan Henderson heads back across goal and little Sterling is free to guide it deftly into the corner. Brendan Rodgers punches the air. Relief.

Text us on 81111

David: If Liverpool do not win tonight they should replace Rodgers with Tony Pulis. At least we could defend.

Carl, Nuneaton: Good open start. Liverpool will be well suited to the Championship.

Jermaine Jenas

Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder on 5 live sports extra

PA

"You never want to see a young keeper making a mistake and costing his team a goal. But it's part and parcel of being a goalkeeper. It's how he bounces back from it that matters."

GOAL

Getty Images

Horrible moment for Newcastle youngster Jak Alnwick. The keeper makes a complete hash of a routine corner, there's nobody near him but he juggles the ball like an English slip fielder, popping it at the feet of Spurs midfielder Nabil Bentaleb, and he takes advantage, hooking home from four yards out. That's his first goal for Spurs.

Jermaine Jenas

Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder on 5 live sports extra

"That was unbelievable by Moussa Sissoko. He's been Newcastle's turning point since returning in midfield and making those driving forward runs. Not only did he force Michel Vorm into that save, he then got back to his own penalty area as Tottenham countered. He's got great energy."

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"The front three from Liverpool have looked really bright. And the pitch looks lovely. Lovely conditions, a proper footballing night.

"Steven Gerrard is getting on the ball and dictating play. Irrespective of how old he is, if you give him time and space he can still pass that ball well."

Text us on 81111

PA

Jay, London: Harry Kane has got to get an England call-up soon. Has got power, strength and knows where the net is. Could be lethal alongside Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck or Daniel Sturridge. And I'm an Arsenal fan.

GREAT SAVE!

Newcastle badly missed the suspended Moussa Sissoko at Arsenal at the weekend but he's back tonight - and almost back with a bang. He drives from halfway, goes all on his own before lashing one in from 30 yards and Michel Vorm has to be alert to parry it clear.

Getty Images

Is Raheem Sterling's best position at the apex of a 3-4-3? I'm not so sure. There's a lot of play breaking down when it comes into him, the latest one seeing an elaborate backheel easily read by the Cherries back four.

But Liverpool's midfield play has been much more like it. Steven Gerrard seeing lots of the ball.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"Bournemouth are quite happy for Liverpool to have it at the back. They are not putting them under much pressure at all. But when Liverpool advance in the Bournemouth half the hosts need to be careful not to give them too much space.

"Liverpool are playing well around the box and have got their shots off, but Bournemouth have blocked them all."

Liverpool playing well now, moving the ball sharply with their attacking players swapping positions at will. Philippe Coutinho drifts out to the left and then cuts on to his right foot, shooting hard and low but it's well blocked.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Fee Dizzle: Streamlined haircut from Raheem Sterling. He's going to put in a performance tonight.

Aaron Mortimore: Bournemouth to win 3-1. It's going to be a funny, but good game for neutrals as well!

Noel Fitzpatrick: Any chance a keeper on view tonight, Michel Vorm, might join Liverpool in January?

FA Cup latest

It is still goalless at Aggborough, but only because of some sensational defending from Worcester's Tyler Weir.

A corner from the left wing is glanced goalwards by Scunthorpe captain Neal Bishop, the ball goes underneath home goalkeeper Nathan Vaughan, but Weir throws himself to the ground to block the shot. He also somehow clears the close-range follow-up from Paddy Madden. The hosts survive, but only just.

Jermaine Jenas

Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder on 5 live sports extra

"I think Nacer Chadli could have squared that to Harry Kane, or at least he should be shooting across the keeper. If the keeper parries it out then Kane has a tap in."

Good play from Tottenham as Andros Townsend slides in a pass down the outside of the full-back and Nacer Chadli runs on to it, he fires it in hard and low but Jak Alnwick gathers it in.

Liverpool getting a foot on the ball more often now, with Lucas doing a good job of keeping the ball simple. Bournemouth remain dangerous on the break, as Kolo Toure has to stretch to head clear a decent cross.

HALF-TIME

It has been a miserable domestic season for Borussia Dortmund as they find themselves 16th out of 18 teams in the Bundesliga with only four wins from their first 15 league games.

Getty Images

Well, it is currently 1-1 in their home match against Wolfsburg. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang put the hosts ahead after only eight minutes from Ciro Immobile's cross, before ex-Chelsea man Kevin De Bruyne equalised direct from a free-kick.

Spurs seeing plenty of early ball, with Nacer Chadli floating a dangerous ball across the box but Newcastle stand firm.

GREAT SAVE!

Excellent start to the game at Dean Court. Bournemouth should have scored moments ago but now Liverpool go close, as local boy Adam Lallana rifles in from 20 yards and Artur Boruc makes a one-handed stop of real quality. Steven Gerrard crashes in a shot from 25 yards which is well blocked.

End-to-end stuff so far.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"Great play from Bournemouth! They are switching play so quickly, and they got a two on one down the flank on that occasion. And it was great control from Callum Wilson, and he really should have scored."

CLOSE!

PA

Bournemouth left-back Adam Smith spots space in behind Jordan Henderson and takes advantage, galloping forwards and cutting inside with real danger. And then a real chance!

Callum Wilson skips away from Martin Skrtel, puts Dejan Lovren on the floor and is one-on-one six yards out. He slides it wide! Massive chance. You won't get many better.

The first attack of the night sees Newcastle forward Emmanuel Riviere and Danny Rose get in a tangle, with Rose needing some treatment to a head injury. He looks groggy.

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"It's so important Bournemouth's players all get an early touch. It's the norm for Liverpool to play under this kind of pressure, but for the Cherries this will take some getting used to."

Raheem Sterling with a shaven head - very mean! He looks ruthless, and he certainly wasn't at Old Trafford. New hair, new outlook?

Jermaine Jenas

Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder on 5 live sports extra

"This could go all the way to penalties. Tottenham might have the stronger squad but Newcastle have got more players in form. They will be full of confidence."

KICK-OFF

Getty Images

We are under way in all three of tonight's cup games...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Alan Ferguson: Looking forward to another tension filled, nail biting, worrying evening of supporting the mighty Liverpool.

Tom Nicholls: Spurs have far too many players. Their bench must be £100 million tonight.

Matt Storey: Why are the League Cup and FA Cup replays on the same night? Absolute joke. Enough weeks in the season to keep them apart.

Getty Images

Here we go then - players out at all three games.

BBC Radio 5 live

Chairman of AFC Bournemouth, Jeff Mostyn, on manager Eddie Howe: "He looks like film star, he acts like a film star. He has been at this football club since the age of 10 - this is a marriage made in heaven. Of all the signings we have made, bringing him back here is the one I'm most proud of."

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"There are managers who suit certain clubs. Eddie Howe is from this area. He has worked his way through this club from apprentice to player to manager.

"He didn't enjoy it at Burnley, and he's come back and it's been a remarkable turnaround, and he deserves an awful lot of credit. And he's a smashing person who conducts himself well on and off the pitch."

A very pensive Steven Gerrard heads the Liverpool line. Head down, hardly looking around at all. Not exactly the life and soul of the party at the best of times, Gerrard has the weight of a club on his shoulders.

Nice early goal should lift the gloom...

Bournemouth on the other hand look very relaxed.

Penalties?

A quick reminder that all three of tonight's cup ties could well go to extra-time and penalties. We could be here for the long haul.

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at Dean Court

"Big night for a number of players but not least Adam Lallana - who began his career at Bournemouth - before being picked up by Southampton's famed academy. His parents are in attendance tonight. Atmosphere building nicely, rain has relented and we're just awaiting the teams."

Not a spare seat in the house on the south coast, while in contrast White Hart Lane looks pretty empty. Very empty indeed.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers speaking to Sky Sports: "The idea is to have a strong squad and we want to get to the final and win this. Glen Johnson has done his groin and will be out for three to four weeks and the other changes are tactical and to freshen up the team.

"I was pleased with how we created chances at the weekend and, although we were obviously not pleased with the result, the players were comfortable in the system so we will take another look at that today.

"It is about concentration and character for us tonight."

Liverpool 'there for the taking'

Getty Images

Former Liverpool and Bournemouth midfielder Jimmy Case says the Premier League side are "there for the taking" in the League Cup quarter-final between the two at Dean Court.

Liverpool were beaten 3-0 by Manchester United on Sunday in the same week they exited the Champions League.

The Cherries, meanwhile, are currently top of the Championship.

"If I was a Bournemouth fan I would be rubbing my hands," Case told BBC Radio Solent's Sportshour show.

"Liverpool are there for the taking. I watch Liverpool every game. The lack of confidence within the side, the work ethic, there is a lot of work to do to get them back on track."

Text us on 81111

We have been asking you for your best games and best signings of 2014. Here are some of your suggestions.

Stephen, Milton Keynes. Best game: Leicester 5-3 Man Utd, no justification needed. Best signing: Nemanja Matic, Chelsea would be half the team without him.

Getty Images

Tom, Oxford: Best game: Netherlands 5 Spain 1. A really classy performance from the Dutch with THAT goal from Robin van Persie, and an upset with lots of goals. Best signing: James Rodriguez for £63m was expensive, but he already looks the part and is only 22.

Phil Windsor: Best game Everton 3 Chelsea 6, best signing Nemanja Matic.

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe speaking to Sky Sports: "The lads that have got us this far in the competition have been outstanding. We have got a balanced squad and the lads coming in are all good players.

"I can only judge ourselves, we have played well in recent weeks and I think if we had got the first goal in the FA Cup meeting last season, I think it could have been a different game."

'Brendan was fantastic last year'

BBC Radio 5 live

Ex-Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry BBC Radio 5 live: "We never contemplated making a change of manager mid-season. In any event our policy was always we leave it to the end of the season. We did have a couple of memorable seasons when we had fairly severe blips coming into this time of year where we just couldn't seem to get a result. But on no occasion have we thought of making a change part way through.

"Brendan Rodgers did a fantastic job last year. Clearly one of the issues has been a failure to score goals this year. He's been unfortunate to be deprived of Daniel Sturridge who you would have expected to be right up there in the goal-scoring charts. It might be a different proposition when Daniel's back and they've got somebody who is capable of sticking the ball in the back of the net.

"Brendan has proven that he is perfectly capable of getting the best out of a good squad of players, He definitely hasn't become a bad coach overnight."

LINE-UPS

Bournemouth: Boruc, Francis, Elphick, Cargill, Smith, Ritchie, Gosling, O'Kane, Stanislas, Wilson, Kermorgant. Subs: Camp, Cook, Arter, Pitman, Daniels, MacDonald, Fraser.

Liverpool: Brad Jones, Toure, Skrtel, Lovren, Henderson, Gerrard, Lucas, Markovic, Coutinho, Lallana, Sterling. Subs: Lambert, Sakho, Moreno, Manquillo, Mignolet, Can, Borini.

LINE-UPS

Tottenham: Vorm, Chiriches, Fazio, Vertonghen, Rose; Bentaleb, Stambouli; Chadli, Eriksen, Townsend; Kane. Subs: Lloris, Kaboul, Naughton, Capoue, Dembele, Lamela, Soldado.

Newcastle: Alnwick; Dummett, Coloccini, Williamson, Haidara; Colback, Sissoko; Perez, Cabella, Gouffran; Riviere. Subs: Woodman, Satka, Streete, Anita, Roberts, Vuckic, Armstrong.

Jermaine Jenas

Former England midfielder at White Hart Lane for 5 live sports extra

"Spurs' is the stronger team, but their strong squad hasn't put performances together this season, particularly at White Hart Lane. To be honest, when it comes to Newcastle, Alan Pardew's hands are somewhat tied due to injuries.

"When I was at Tottenham, Harry Kane was always a player who would be constantly knocking on the door, even as a kid, always scoring goals in the youth team and the reserves. So what I'm seeing now from him is not a surprise, but he's strong, fitter, and he's scoring a surprising amount of goals. He's a young Englishman, and that's fantastic for both his club and country."

Looks like Lazar Markovic will play at left wing-back this evening for Liverpool. The £20m signing has bags of pace and attacking intent but can he hold the defensive shape too?

Bournemouth may target that side.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Goonerama: Signing of the year? Cesc Fabregas, the reason Chelsea will win the Premier Legaue. Game? Obviously is Brazil 1-7 Germany for the pure 'what the?!' factor!

Carl Taylor: The best game? Palace 3-3 Liverpool - pure football drama.

Akhil Sakaria: The best signing was Fabregas for Chelsea. The best game was Leicester 5-3 Man Utd.

East coast for Christmas

PA

Liverpool need striker Daniel Sturridge back fit, fast, but the former Chelsea man will spend Christmas in Boston in a bid to speed up his return from injury.

The 25-year-old has already spent time in Los Angeles working on his thigh injury and will now link up with medical specialists at baseball team Boston Red Sox.

He has played only three league games this season and is not expected to return to action for several weeks yet.

Sounds like a nice trip to me...

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"I saw the last League Cup game against West Brom and Eddie Howe made plenty of changes for that game. So I'm not surprised. The players who have come in should slot in nice and comfortably, just as they did against West Brom.

"Liverpool are under a lot of pressure to win this game tonight. And they have some great players on the pitch - Bournemouth will have to be right on it. There's a feeling about the place that this will be Bournemouth's night, but they need to set themselves out so that they will be difficult to beat.

"Liverpool desperately need a result. It will give them a little bit of confidence, steady the ship, and then Brendan Rodgers can take a view in January. Confidence has such a big part to play. This game is all about winning, and at a club like Liverpool you have to win matches. Brendan has spent a lot of money. He needs to stand firm, be strong, and hope and pray he can get a few results."

Jermaine Jenas

Former England midfielder at White Hart Lane for 5 live sports extra

"Liverpool are obviously having a lot of problems. They keep toying with three at the back, then four - all that tells you is that Brendna Rodgers is unsure how best to defend. And they are just leaking confidence.

"Even the attacking players can't attack with freedom because they are worried about the team at the back. It all has an influence, and they are struggling as a whole team rather than just as a defensive unit."

Liverpool in the market for a goalkeeper then? Who is available? Tricky position to fill in January...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Gary Lineker

BBC Sport

"Looking forward to seeing Liverpool's new 3-7 formation."

Team News

So Worcester City's Nathan Vaughan gets the day off work (see 18:54 entry) and takes his place in goal in what is an unchanged starting XI from the side that drew 1-1 at Scunthorpe in the first match. Sean Geddes, of the 'rabona' fame (19:03 entry), also plays.

Scunthorpe United make two changes with Andrew Boyce and ex-Aston Villa midfielder Isaiah Osbourne coming in for Terry Hawkridge and Billy Kee.

Worcester: Vaughan, Williams, Weir, Hutchison, Thomas, Gater, Nti, Deeney, Symons, Geddes, Murphy. Subs: Jackman, Wright, Taylor, Dunkley, Rowe, Khan, Veiga.

Scunthorpe: Slocombe, Boyce, Davey, Llera, Williams, McAllister, Bishop, McSheffrey, Madden, Osbourne, Taylor. Subs: Sparrow, Hawkridge, Adelakun, Canavan, Olejnik, Wootton, Brisley.

Alan Green

commentator at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"Liverpool badly need a goalkeeper. There are many people at Liverpool who looked at Simon Mignolet when he arrived and said he was a good shot-stopper, but he doesn't command his penalty area and he is not a sweeper keeper, despite how Brendan Rodgers wants him to play.

"So I'm not convinced that any Liverpool defence has any confidence in the man behind them. And Brad Jones isn't the solution. So in January Rodgers badly needs to address the goalkeeping positions."

BBC

Nobody will be surprised to learn that Tony...

You wouldn't expect Pulis to be out of work for much longer. Is he first in the queue for a vacancy?

Tony Pulis

Former Stoke manager at Dean Court for 5 live Sport

"When we came back from three down against Liverpool last season at Crystal Palace, we knew Luis Suarez was the best player in the league. Liverpool had an outstanding front three. But they were very, very vulnerable then defensively, and we always felt we would get chances to score in that game.

"The knives are out for Brendan Rodgers - the one thing I would say is that he still hasn't sorted that problematic defence out, despite spending lots of money. And he knew without Suarez his team wouldn't score as many goals. So Liverpool should be looking a lot stronger, a lot tighter, and should be looking to keep more clean sheets.

"Personally, I enjoy working in a defensive shape as much as the play going forward."

The force is strong in this one

But Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has dismissed talk of dressing room unrest at Anfield.

The Reds are 11th in the table and out of the Champions League, but Rodgers insists his players remain united.

"I hear one or two bits and pieces about unrest and it is totally untrue," said the Northern Irishman. "Our dressing room is very strong.

"These are competitive players who nearly won the league last year, so they won't be happy with losing.

"But the actual spirit in the group is very strong. That is one of the reasons why, when we get that confidence back, then we will go into the second half of the season and be much better."

Drink up!

BBC Radio 5 live

5 live Sport are advertising how they are covering Liverpool's next two games, what they describe as Rodgers' last-chance saloon:

@bbc5live

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at Dean Court

"It's a grey, miserable evening here but with both sets of players now warming up on the pitch the atmosphere is building nicely at a sold out Dean Court. I was at the FA Cup tie here in January and there's a different expectancy tonight.

"That match had the feeling of underdog versus football giant (David v Goliath) but with Cherries topping the Championship there's a real air of expectation that something special might be about to happen."

Heavy rain falling at both of our League Cup games as the players go through their paces. Looks like a cold night for all in store. Get on the mulled wine.

'Keep Rodgers - flog Mario'

Former Leicester and Wales midfielder Robbie Savage

Getty Images

"I'd try and get as much money as you can for Mario Balotelli in the January transfer window.

"His goalscoring record for AC Milan and everywhere he's been has been OK, so, for £16m, he was worth taking a chance on. But I don't think he's done anything.

"But I'm a big fan of Brendan Rodgers. He can improve teams and players, as he's shown. He's been a little bit unlucky as some of his signings haven't worked out."

Sterling work

Getty Images

Brendan Rodgers insists Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling is not being affected by the debate over his future, despite the youngster spurning several gilt-edged opportunities in the Reds' 3-0 defeat at Manchester United.

"I think Raheem has been brilliant, absolutely outstanding," said the Liverpool manager. "The kid's played in a front role for me at the weekend - a role he has played before as a youngster - but I don't think it is affecting him one bit.

"Okay he maybe could have got a goal or two but he puts defenders on the back foot, he is intelligent in his game, has running ability, and is getting himself into some wonderful positions.

"The kid has been a real catalyst for us in terms of our attacking threat so I don't think there is anything which has affected him.

"He leaves his representatives to work with the club to hopefully organise the deal for him and he has no real influence in that.

"All I ask him to do is concentrate on playing football and the performances will come and he has shown consistently he has been a real threat."

The big news for Sterling tonight is that he's shaved his head. He means business.

Newcastle team news

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew is unable to call on the services of in-form striker Papiss Cisse, who was struggling to overcome a virus.

The Senegal international, who has scored three goals in his last three games, is replaced by French striker Emmanuel Riviere. The £5m signing from Monaco has netted just twice since his summer move.

Midfielders Moussa Sissoko and Remy Cabella return, while full-back Massadio Haidara replaces the suspended Daryl Janmaat.

Pardew names a youthful bench - with six of the seven substitutes under the age of 21. Three 17-year-olds - goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, forward Callum Roberts and striker Adam Armstrong - are among them.

'We're not favourites'

BBC Radio 5 live

Steve Jenkins, who runs Bournemouth fan site The South End, on 5 live Breakfast: "I'm not sure we're starting as favourites, but obviously with our momentum in the league we've got a very, very good chance of winning. Liverpool are weak but I still don't think it's quite as bad for them as people are saying. I'm not sure the game will go all our way at all.

"But I remember the years when we had a 17-point deduction and playing in League Two. As a club we've come a very, very long way in a very short space of time."

BBC

In the first round of the FA Cup, Worcester beat Coventry 2-1 with two goals from Sean Geddes before the attacking midfielder became a YouTube star with a stunning 'rabona' goal in a 3-0 win against Barrow in the FA Trophy.

In case you are not sure what a 'rabona' is, you wrap one leg around the standing leg before connecting with the ball, while trying to not fall over.

Looks easy? Well, Cristiano Ronaldo tried a similar trick yesterday for Real Madrid against Cruz Azul in the Fifa Club World Cup... and failed to score.

BBC

So conclusive proof. Sean Geddes is better than Ronaldo.

'It's a showcase'

Getty Images

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe is not so much quietly confident as, well, loudly confident. Not only is he after a good result against Liverpool, he wants his side to show the watching world just how good they are.

"I would love the players to do themselves justice and show everybody, if people need confirmation, we are a good side," Howe told BBC Radio Solent.

"It's one game and the first time we have been in the quarter-final, so it's hopefully a game where we can relax and attack rather than think too much of the consequences of defeat or victory.

"I think it is a showcase for the club and a showcase for the team. If we can perform as we have done in the league and give a really good account of ourselves and hopefully everyone can see our philosophy, then we will take that.

"The result is always in the lap of the gods, but we want to see the principles of our play coming out."

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

But if Tottenham v Newcastle is more your thing then don't worry. Tune into BBC Radio 5 live Sports Extra where ex-England midfielder Jermaine Jenas, who played for both clubs, joins commentator Alistair Bruce-Ball.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

You're casting a look back at the year in football, and telling us what you reckon has been the best signing and the best game of 2014:

Steve Morris: Liverpool 3-2 Man City was an amazing game, where the title race was really set alight with Philippe Coutinho's dramatic goal.

Scott: Best signing of 2014? Alexis Sanchez. Best game of 2014? Liverpool 3-2 Man City. For everything involved.

Graham Jack Thirkill: If David De Gea signs a new contract for Man United before January, then that is the signing of 2014.

Listen up

BBC Radio 5 live

As well as reading along here, you can also listen to the action from the south coast. Mark Pougatch presents 5 live Sport from Dean Court at 19:00 GMT, with full match commentary from Alan Green and ex-Stoke and Bournemouth manager Tony Pulis.

Getty Images

Victory would move Newcastle into the League Cup semi-finals for the first time since they were runners-up to Manchester City in 1976.

Newcastle forward Alan Gowling levelled teenager winger Peter Barnes's opener (above), before Dennis Tueart - a Geordie who supported Newcastle as a child - won the trophy for City.

Can the Magpies reach Wembley this year? Well, they did beat Tottenham on their way to the famous stadium in 1976...

Starting shortly

BBC Final Score

Midweek Final Score returns tonight from 19:00 GMT. All the scores and match stats you can shake a stick at accompanying 5 live Sport's commentary of Bournemouth v Liverpool in the League Cup. It's online-only, and it's on air until 22:30.

Spurs team news

As expected, Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino makes a raft of changes from the starting XI for Sunday's Premier League win at Swansea.

Second-choice keeper Michel Vorm starts ahead of France number one Hugo Lloris, with defenders Vlad Chiriches and Danny Rose getting the nod at full-back.

Midfielders Benjamin Stambouli, Nacer Chadli and Andros Townsend also come in. Argentina midfielder Erik Lamela and Spain striker Roberto Soldado are named on a relatively strong-looking bench.

Fitter, happier?

BBC

There's nothing more frustrating then finding out you have to work on a day when you have something planned.

Luckily for Worcester goalkeeper Nathan Vaughan his bosses have decided to give him the day off to pursue his FA Cup dream.

Vaughan works as a fitter at Jaguar Land Rover in Solihull and will be swapping the production line for the goalline as he hopes his side motor past Scunthorpe into the third round of the FA Cup.

Team News

Bournemouth assistant manager Jason Tindall: "We've made six changes, but arguably any of those six players could play in our team week in, week out. We've picked a team which we feel is going to put on a good performance and hopefully get us through to the next round.

"Yann [Kermorgant] and Callum [Wilson] up front is a handful for any defence in the Championship, and I'm sure they'll be a handful for Liverpool."

Pugh roasted

One Bournemouth absentee is Cherries number seven, winger Marc Pugh.

Perhaps a hint was his tweet from last night's dinnertime. Not sure any sports science in the world would advocate an enormous Tuesday night roast as ideal matchday preparation:

@MarcPugh7

Liverpool - eight-time winners of the League Cup - underdogs at Dean Court?

What do we think?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Ross Parker: Forget Liverpool's history - based on form it wouldn't be a shock if they lost to Bournemouth, a team brimming with confidence.

Stevey Gee Sings: Surely Liverpool have to be considered as underdogs tonight? Going to be an interesting game. A must-win for both.

Cherries on top

Getty Images

Liverpool are on the slide then, but what about Bournemouth? Well, they are flying. This is already their best ever run in the League Cup and Eddie Howe's men are top of the Championship.

As ever, the second tier is manic and anyone's - with just six points covering the top seven. So it's not time to start planning the promotion party just yet, but I'm sure they can squeeze in another party if they knock out Liverpool tonight.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

In two weeks' time we'll all be watching Jools Holland, letting off fireworks and welcoming in 2015.

Getty Images

But before we do, it's time to have a reflective look back on 2014. Last night we discussed the best goals and best celebrations of the last 12 months, and tonight we want your shouts for:

The best signing of 2014; and

The best game of 2014.

Getty Images

From non-league to World Cup, from emergency loan to £75m.

Fire away. Get in touch at #bbcfootball, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Reds alert?

The weekend's chastening 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford means it's just two wins in the last 10 games in all competitions for Liverpool, and with Champions League failure the season is in danger of disintegrating before Christmas.

A win tonight would keep their League Cup chances very much alive though. Can the Reds rediscover their old form?

@LFC

Liverpool FC on Twitter: Inside the #LFC dressing room at the Goldsands Stadium

Team news

Tottenham starting XI: Vorm, Chiriches, Fazio, Vertonghen, Rose; Bentaleb, Stambouli; Chadli, Eriksen, Townsend; Kane.

Newcastle starting XI: Alnwick; Dummett, Coloccini, Williamson, Haidara; Colback, Sissoko; Perez, Cabella, Gouffran; Riviere.

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at Dean Court

AFC Bournemouth

"Tonight's game between the two sides is beautifully portrayed in Bournemouth's matchday magazine by designer Dave Merrell - as is the battle between the two managers at the helm - man of the moment Eddie Howe and his beleaguered counterpart Brendan Rodgers."

Bafc bourenmouth

Getty Images

Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has chopped and changed line-ups this season with more regularity than the original 'Tinkerman' Claudio Ranieri.

But the Argentine is happy to put his head on the block as Spurs juggle their Premier League ambitions with the demands of the Europa League.

"When you lose people take something to criticise you. For me, it's a lack of respect, not for me but for the players who played in the game. I accept the criticism, but I can't accept criticism for the players," he says.

"But I am a manager and I need to make a decision. You cannot pick a team to guarantee that we go to the semi-final. In football it is easy to talk after the game."

Time for Spurs - whichever 11 players are picked by Pochettino - to let their feet do the talking...

FA Cup action

But it is not all about the League Cup tonight as Worcester City take on Scunthorpe United in an FA Cup second-round replay.

City, ninth in the Conference North - the sixth tier of English football - have not reached the third round since 1982-83, but will be playing in front of a crowd of more than 4,000 at a sold out Aggborough tonight.

Worcester, who knocked out Liverpool in 1958-59, have already eliminated one League One team in Coventry and will hoping for a repeat against Mark Robins's side.

AFP

The first match ended 1-1 and the winners will play either Chesterfield or MK Dons at home. Those two teams have to play their second-round tie again as Chesterfield fielded an ineligible player in the original game, which they won 1-0.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Former England spinner Graeme Swann: "Newcastle fans in good voice at Kings cross. #howaythelads at White Hart Lane tonight"

All the fun of the fair

Getty Images

Whether it is nervously clambering aboard the Haunted House, concentrating intensely on trying to 'hook a duck', or just stuffing your face with eye-watering levels of sugary candy floss, almost everyone can relate to the fun of the fair.

How about the fun of a trip to White Hart Lane? That's what floats Alan Pardew's boat.

"There is a spring in the step," says the Newcastle boss about tonight's League Cup tie. "It's like going to the funfair, I guess, when you are young. You are really looking forward to it because it's going to be exciting, and that's the sense you get."

Team News

A lot of changes - but not from Liverpool.

Bournemouth make six changes from the side which beat Cardiff 5-3 at the weekend, as the Championship leaders rotate their squad.

Liverpool make three changes from the team beaten at Old Trafford, as Kolo Toure, Lazar Markovic and Lucas come in.

Bournemouth: Boruc, Francis, Elphick, Cargill, Smith, Ritchie, O'Kane, Gosling, Stanislas, Kermorgant, Wilson

Liverpool: Jones, Toure, Skrtel, Lovren, Henderson, Gerrard, Coutinho, Lallana, Lucas, Sterling, Markovic

Who's left in the League Cup?

Getty Images

After victories last night for League One side Sheffield United and Premier League leaders Chelsea, the semi-final line-up is taking shape.

The draw for the last four takes place after tonight's games - here's the rundown.

Chelsea

Sheffield United

Bournemouth or Liverpool

Tottenham or Newcastle

Looking back at the FA Cup meeting at Dean Court in January, Brendan Rodgers offered this interesting analysis of the game:

"A year ago there were games like this we may have lost."

A year on, is this again a game they might lose?

What a difference a year makes...

Getty Images

Last January Brendan Rodgers brought his Liverpool side to Bournemouth for a cup tie.

The Reds were tested at times by the Cherries but goals from Victor Moses and Daniel Sturridge eventually proved enough for the Premier League side to progress in the FA Cup.

Eleven months on the Reds are back on the south coast. No Suarez. No Sturridge. No chance?