Saturday football: Text, TV and radio

1. Ref appears to send off wrong S'land player
2. See 16:20 entry for more details
3. Berahino scores as West Brom beat Saints
4. Wins for Stoke, Swansea and Newcastle
5. Palace win 3-1 at West Ham in early game

And that's a wrap for today. But what a cracker of a football day we have ahead of us on Sunday.

Two stonking Premier League matches - Liverpool v Manchester City & Arsenal v Everton - kick things off.

Then, we have the not-so-small matter of the League Cup final. Chelsea. Tottenham. Wembley. The first silverware of the English season.

If cheap Danish lagers did football scheduling... See you all tomorrow!

Empics

If you can't wait until then, let's have a recap of today's Premier League action for those at the back...

Burnley 0-1 Swansea

Man Utd 2-0 Sunderland

Newcastle 1-0 Aston Villa

Stoke 1-0 Hull

West Brom 1-0 Southampton

West Ham 1-3 Crystal Palace

Match of the Day: Tonight's running order: Man Utd v Sunderland, West Brom v Southampton, West Ham v Palace, Newcastle v Villa, Stoke v Hull, Burnley v Swansea.

Catch up on today's action

Wes Brown's incorrect sending off is the day's major talking point on a day not packed full of major talking points. Want to see what all the fuss is about? Then you know where you can watch it.

Match of the Day will be flashing on to your screens at 22:30 GMT on BBC One.

Player reaction

Manchester United winger Ashley Young on the sending off of Sunderland defender Wes Brown - who appeared to be a victim of mistaken identity: "It's down the referee. It's a tough decision to make. I couldn't see what happened. He sent someone off because it was a goalscoring opportunity. He had to send someone off.

"We needed to get back to winning ways after last week. For the first 10-15 minutes, we didn't play as well as we wanted to, but we composed ourselves and were unlucky not to be in front at half-time. We got the goal in the second half and built from there."

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Aston Villa were unlucky today but there is something to build on. They have to believe. Aston Villa need the points but it's in the performances and they have to grow from the positive signs they showed today. I was in a Villa team that was relegated, and there is no divine right for them to stay up, even though they're a big club."

Player reaction on Twitter

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Stoke forward Bojan Krkic: Great win Potters! How important is the team spirit and the top quality of Mr Peter Crouch.

West Ham goalkeeper Adrian: Disappointed with our result today at home with a little bad luck... we have to continue working and think on the next at Wednesday!

West Brom goalkeeper Ben Foster: Great start to a BIG week! Also Blues and Watford winning too. Enjoy your Saturday night everyone.

Manager reaction on Twitter

Saints boss Ronald Koeman: That quick goal against us made the game even more difficult! Onwards to Tuesday and getting back into the winning way!

Manager reaction

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal on restlessness from the Old Trafford crowd during the first half: "I didn't hear that. Maybe your hearing is better than mine.

"We started the match badly. It was not good. But after that, we had more composure on the ball and that improved our game in the second half.

"We are on our way and we have been in the top four for more than 10 or 12 weeks. I think we are a stable team in the top four. I hope at the end of the season, we are still there."

Manager reaction

AP

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal, speaking to BBC Sport about the decision to send off Wes Brown rather than John O'Shea: "I think you can see it much better than I could see from the bench. The players protested more because they felt the wrong player was sent off.

"That's a mistake. You make mistakes as well and so do I. It can happen."

League Two round-up

The top three all dropped points as leaders Burton lost 1-0 to Newport. Second placed Shrewsbury went down 2-1 to Northampton while Wycombe's Fred Onyedinma scored twice to salvage a 2-2 draw at home to Stevenage.

Luton are now just two points from the automatic promotion places after a 2-0 win against Accrington.

Newport's win saw them move into the play-off places at the expense of Plymouth who lost 2-0 to Bury.

Bottom placed side Hartlepool kept their survival hopes alive with a 1-0 win over Wimbledon.

Carlisle are in the relegation zone on goal difference after a 2-0 defeat by Southend while York stay just above the drop zone after a 0-0 draw with Exeter.

Mistake identity at Old Trafford

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Right, let's clear this one up.

BBC Sport pundit Martin Keown (and Chris from Hertfordshire) rightly point out that Arsenal pair Kieran Gibbs and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain both avoided a ban after their 'own mistaken' identity case.

BUT, that was because Arsenal successfully argued Oxlade-Chamberlain had not stopped a goalscoring chance and the red card was rescinded.

So Sunderland may hope that it is rescinded - but we'd suggest that is highly unlikely because it was a clear red card offence.

Therefore, if it is mistaken identity the red card will be transferred to John O'Shea so he will serve the ban instead of Brown. Clear?

Mistaken identity at Old Trafford

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"When this situation happened before, with Kieran Gibbs and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain at Arsenal, both players were exonerated. Sunderland and Gus Poyet will be hoping for the same decision - he won't want to lose either of his central defenders."

Text us on 81111

Chris, Hertfordshire: Re: Wes Brown sending off, am I right in thinking that mistaken identity can be an advantage for the team in question because an appeal would likely overturn the red card, with no resulting ban?

Get in touch using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

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Manager reaction

More from West Brom's Tony Pulis: "They changed it after 25 minutes as we were having so much joy and that made it difficult for us in the second half.

"We have a weakness up front in terms of numbers. The last 15 or 20 minutes we have had to play Sessegnon up there. Brown and Saido were both carrying knocks even before the game.

"Saido had an injection before the game and maybe he should have one before every game, scoring goals like that.

"Forty points will be safe this year without a question. Some people take their foot off the peddle and this game is relentless so if you do that you get a kick up the backside."

Manager reaction

West Brom manager Tony Pulis:

"It was a goal that top, top class players score and Saido Berahino could be a top, top class player. Since I came into club there has be no doubt about his ability, he just needs direction.

"He put himself in good positions. He has that ability to play someone in or score.

"We looked at the highlights and we probably had some of the best chances of the game.

"But they have got some very, very good players and in second-half we had to defend for our lives."

Mistaken identity at Old Trafford

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"It was the right decision to give the penalty (see 16:20) but the referee sent the wrong man off. There has been a lot of talk about the standard of refereeing going downhill, and this is another classic example. When he sees it afterwards he will be as disappointed as we are, because it's hard to believe he has got that wrong. The players are trying to tell him that he got it wrong too, but the referees will not listen, and that makes it worse. Manchester United got out of jail after a poor first-half performance, and went on to dominate play."

Manager reaction

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Sunderland manager Gus Poyet says the penalty which led to Manchester United's opener, and Wes Brown being sent off in a case of mistaken identity, changed the game "completely".

"It was difficult to see what happened - we're trying to get a video. It's between two players. We have to analyse. It didn't look an easy decision to make," says the Uruguayan.

"The referee said that Wes Brown was the one who fouled Falcao first. That's what he told the players.

"You need to ask the referee [about the decision]. We will analyse it and make a decision."

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

"They are not doomed, Aston Villa. Burnley and Sunderland have also lost today. Villa are still in the mix and the way they played today suggests to me there is some confidence coming back into the side. Gabriel Agbonlahor and Christian Benteke will feel good about what Tim Sherwood has said about them."

PLAYER REACTION

Newcastle defender Jonas Gutierrez was part of the squad for the first time since being treated for testicular cancer. He told BBC Sport: "I'm really happy to be back. It was my first time back since my illness.

"In football you never know what's going to happen. You start to think about life in a different way, things are more important than football.

"The chemotherapy was a big step, a big point in my life and I'm enjoying being back

"I'm strong and fit. After my illness, you need to get games. It's going to be tough. I'm going to fight for my place and when I have the opportunity I'll do my best.

"I have to say thanks. The fans give me a lot of power to work through my illness. Not just Newcastle fans, but football fans. They sent me a lot of love and a lot of messages."

FULL-TIME

The full time whistle has gone at the Goldsands Stadium in the delayed kick-off in the Championship. A draw for the promotion-chasing hosts.

'Tackle could have ended Ireland's career'

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Mark Hughes is not the sort of man you would like to upset. But referee Neil Swarbrick has done exactly that. The Stoke boss is livid that the official did not punish a "potentially career-ending" tackle on his midfielder Stephen Ireland.

"I'm disappointed with performance of the officials. There was a tackle in the first half on Stevie which could have finished his career. Why the referee hasn't given a straight red I've no idea," says Hughes.

"It was a shocking challenge. The day has been soured by it. He has a slice on his calf and has needed 12/15 stitches. He's in a bad way.

"The referees have got to get their act together. I think officials find it very difficult to get the key decision rights."

Premier League bottom six

BBC

No movement for anyone in the Premier League bottom six this afternoon. A good day for Leicester and QPR, who weren't in action.

We deserved win - Hughes

Stoke manager Mark Hughes on the win: "The most ambitious team won the game. Hull just came to frustrate us, and their game plan was to come away with a clean sheet if they could. Once we scored they had to come out more but saw it out to win the game."

On Steve Bruce's claim that matchwinner Peter Crouch was offside: "I think he is level - Steve's lad Alex Bruce is playing Peter onside. I don't think Steve can have any complaints about who won the game."

Manager reaction

Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood: "I saw signs today this team isn't ready to give up. It's not too late, there's everything to play for.

"People say we're too good to go down, it's all nonsense. It's all about guts and desire when you're in a relegation zone. We've got that, now we need to show quality.

"I'm ramping up the pressure on them - I'm telling them we can't afford to drop any more points. We have to take points in every game we play. It's as simple as that."

Sherwood is still seeking his first league points as Villa boss with his side second from bottom in the Premier League.

Manager reaction

Newcastle manager John Carver talking to BBC Sport: "It wasn't scintillating, it was two nervous sides. It wasn't pretty but it was a nice feeling getting that goal before half-time. It was a Godsend.

"When you've just come on the back of a 5-0 drubbing, confidence is low but we've got a good spirit.

"We kept a clean sheet, which we haven't done too many times. We do have a long list of people who aren't available. We've dug in there and fought every inch of the way to get the result.

"It's been a long week after last weekend. It couldn't come quickly enough. The expectancy of this crowd is massive. I know it's not pretty and not breathtaking but it was a win and that the most important thing."

Manager reaction

Burnley manager Sean Dyche: We are disappointed to concede a soft goal but other than that there wasn't much between the teams. The performance was more or less there, but I have said that for too many weeks.

"Sam Vokes gets up for a header and the defender has him by the waist, I have seen penalties like that given. Sam was probably too honest.

"We have to pick up points, the league is relentless and it is a fantastic challenge. We have to win games, we need to take an ugly one."

Burnley remain in the Premier League bottom three.

Crouch offside for goal - Bruce

PA

Hull City boss Steve Bruce says he has seen television replays which suggest that Stoke matchwinner Peter Crouch was stood in an offside position before heading in.

"Our players were adamant they had done enough to catch him offside," says Bruce. "We're convinced he is offside and we've seen replays which show that.

"I'm not saying we deserved to win the game but I expect the linesman to get that right. The ball has come 40 yards, it is a straight ball and he should be in a good position to get it right.

"But we didn't do enough offensively. We didn't offer a threat like we have in the away games of late. Overall I didn't think we deserved to lose the game."

Manager reaction

Swansea manager Garry Monk: "Not a classic, the conditions didn't help but it was always going to be a case of whoever got the first goal, was likely to win the game.

"We had to dig in and do the basics well. Jack Cork should have scored initially and it goes down as an own goal.

"It is the earliest we have achieved 40 points. It is another piece of history the players have put down. It is important and we are try to finish the season strongly."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Henry Ellison: Can't remember the last time Manchester United actually convincingly won a game with exciting football. Louis van Gaal is no different from David Moyes.

Tom MC: Can Saints return some of our Sunderland goals and cash them in for rest of the season?

Richard Parfitt: This Wayne Rooney fella could be a good striker you know...

Get in touch using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

Manager reaction

More from Saints boss Ronald Koeman:

"We were looking for action (from the referee) over the throw-ins and free kicks. They took too much time.

"I think it was every time about 13 seconds and we spoke to the referee but they didn't do anything about that - maybe one yellow card. But that isn't the reason we lost.

"The total performance of team in quality is a little bit low from the beginning of the season but we have to go and believe in the next win.

"For next Tuesday against Crystal Palace we have to win as we need those points."

Manager reaction

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman:

"We know the opposition of today. They play out of a very good defensive organisation, very defensively, but they need points and they deserved the win.

"And for us it was too difficult to break down.

"They scored a great goal and we complain more about our football today. We may be had one or two chances to score a goal but not more.

"Maybe there is a little bit less confidence (for the strikers) but it is very difficult. We spoke about that before the game but then after one minute you are 1-0 down and everything changes."

League One round-up

Managerless Coventry beat second placed MK Dons 2-1 while leaders Bristol City extended their lead to eight points with a 1-0 victory over Rochdale.

Preston beat Oldham 4-0 in the North West derby. Simon Grayson's side are now equal on point with MK Dons, and only out of the automatic promotion places on goal difference.

At the other end of the table Leyton Orient are now just a point from safety after a 2-0 win over Walsall.

Manager reaction

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Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood talking to BBC Sport: "We have to take something from every game between now and the end of the season.

"There was a little bit of anxiety, we are trying too hard to hit the front man too early.

"People talk about we have quality, what I saw was heart and desire but I need to see more quality and I think we are capable of it."

Football League round-up

Remarkable fightback at Elland Road as Watford battle back to move up to third. Two goals from Czech striker Matej Vydra gave them a 3-2 win over Leeds, despite being 2-0 down after 20 minutes.

Bolton took a step towards safety with a 1-0 win over Brighton. Brentford remain outside the playoff places losing 1-0 to Birmingham.

Chris Powell saw his Huddersfield side lose 3-0 to Charlton his return to The Valley Stadium. Cardiff lost 1-0 to Wolverhampton.

Bournemouth and Blackburn are still trying to break the deadlock after a delayed kick-off. Little under 10 minutes left for someone to nab a winner.

Jermaine Jenas

Former Nottm Forest & England midfielder

"Dougie Freedman having a massive impact at Forest, questions about making the playoffs will be on the way I'm sure."

Football League round-up

The top two both dropped valuable points as league leaders Derby were stunned by two first half goals to lose 2-0 to Fulham at Craven Cottage, while second-placed Middlesbrough went down 2-0 to Sheffield Wednesday.

At the other end of the league, next-to-bottom Wigan beat stranded basement boys Blackpool 3-1 to give the Latics hope of avoiding the drop. Meanwhile Rotherham won the relegation six-pointer against Millwall 2-1 to cut the Lions six point adrift from safety.

Dougie Freedman's impressive start to life at Nottingham Forest continued as his side beat Reading 3-0. Forest are now unbeaten in six with five wins and a draw since Freedman took over.

Record-breaking Rooney

Below we perhaps should have said 'record-breaking Wayne Rooney'. That's because the Manchester United skipper is the first man to score 10 or more goals in 11 successive Premier League seasons.

Patient United deserved three points

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Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney: "It's great to score but the three points are the most important thing after last week. We deserved the three points.

"We knew Sunderland would be dogged. They defended well, but we were patient. It was a good performance.

"The performance was good. We had a bit more space with the 10 men but we should have been ahead before that.

"I think there are a lot of teams in a good run of form and there's not much difference between the top teams. We hope that, come the end of the season, we're in the right position."

Text us on 81111

Harry Le May: When is Ronald Koeman going to have the courage to change things up front? Another woeful performance from Graziano Pelle and Dusan Tadic, emphasised by the sitter that was missed. I know they're short of options but there has to come a point! Four games zero goals.

Dave, Scotland: Ironic that on the day video technology in football is delayed by at least another year, the referee sends off the wrong player!

M, London: Sub Radamel Falcao for Maroune Fellaini after he wins a penalty? Joke of a decision. He hasn't scored because he's NOT served well enough. Tedious. Well done Falcao.

Get in touch using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

Former England captain Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Old Trafford

"Sunderland did a job on the home side until half-time but there wasn't much from them up front in the second half at all. Manchester United's armoury was just too much for them in the end. The assistant referee put his flag up straight away (see 16:47) but a third goal wouldn't have flattered United for this second half performance. The target is to get into the top four, and they are moving."

We've got quality - Crouch

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Stoke striker Peter Crouch on coming off the bench to head the winner: "You never know if you're going to get the chance to play when you're sat on the bench. But thankfully I did.

"Charlie Adam came on and made a great impact, and it was his ball which led to my goal. We have got options on the bench.

"We have got some good quality, it was a scrappy game but I thought we thoroughly deserved it. We're playing some good stuff."

Get involved

Mike: Tim Sherwood or not, Villa have a Championship side and we will see how good next year. Lerner has destroyed this club.

Tom Sharpe: I don't get it, Gil and Grealish on the bench, and Sherwood brings on N'Zogbia and Bacuna. One is terrible, the other is a defender.

Kyle Hilton: That's five points lost in last two home for Burnley because of horrific refereeing. No point in playing when it is like this.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Paul Moore: Looks like Southampton's Graziano Pelle got a Roberto Soldado DVD for Christmas.

Ricahard: Louis van Gaal bemoans a lack of a 20-goal-a-season striker, yet he takes off both strikers for midfielders?

Get in touch using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

FULL-TIME

What a transformation under West Brom boss Tony Pulis. One defeat in 10 matches in all competitions and they are up to 13th. Eight points clear of the drop zone.

CLOSE!

Eljero Elia flashes a shot over for the visitors. Surely that is it?

FULL-TIME

Referee Neil Swarbrick toots his whistle for the final time as Stoke celebrate a win that surely secures their Premier League status for another year.

Peter Crouch's headed winner moves the 10th-placed Potters on to 39 points.

Can Southampton grab a point? It doesn't look like it. Seconds remaining.

Paul McShane's eyes light up as the ball bounces invitingly in front of him in the Stoke box. But the Hull defender's effort is blocked by a wonderful sliding tackle by Erik Pieters. Stoke almost home and dry...

FULL-TIME

Guy Mowbray

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"Newcastle's first home win of 2015 should get rid of any existing doubts over their Premier League status. Aston Villa have suffered seven straight defeats and they are right in it."

Fraser Forster sends the ball long for Southampton. But free kick awarded to the hosts. Into the last minute of injury time.

FULL-TIME

Burnley would have fancied a home win in this one but, in all honesty, it rarely looked likely. The Clarets still in big trouble and time running out.

Four minutes of injury time.

FULL-TIME

All over at Old Trafford. Wayne Rooney smiles and claps the Stretford End as 'Glory, glory Man United' blasts out of the tannoy system.

The Red Devils are back up to third place with these three points.

INJURY TIME

Five minutes of stoppage time at the Britannia Stadium. So that's five minutes for Hull to nick a point. But, having registered just one shot all game, it is highly unlikely...

Southampton pushing again but the ball is cleared. Moments left.

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

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"It's been a good performance by Villa. They've really worked hard. I think they deserve a point. They've shown good fighting spirit."

DISALLOWED GOAL

Into added time at Old Trafford - and Manchester United are denied a third. Ander Herrera pokes in Antonio Valencia's drilled cross from close range, but the Spaniard is adjudged - quite rightly - to be offside.

Championship latest

Disaster for Leeds, having been 2-0 up they now trail 3-2 to Watford at Elland Road as Matej Vydra scores his second of the game to complete as stunning comeback.

Second placed Middlesborough are still losing 2-0 to Sheffield Wednesday and leaders Derby at 2-0 down to Fulham.

The Blackpool fans are leaving as Wigan's James McClean scores his side's third to make it 3-0 before Gary Madine scores a late consolation for the home side.

Bolton's teenage striker Zach Clough has scored his fifth goal in only his fifth league start as Neil Lennon's side lead Brighton 1-0.

Six minutes of stoppage time at Newcastle. Can Villa grab a point?

"Going down, going down, going down..." chant the Manchester United fans to their visitors. Fifth-bottom Sunderland hover perilously close to the drop-zone, three points ahead of OPR.

Into injury time at Turf Moor...

WHAT A MISS!

Another opportunity for Southampton's Graziano Pelle and another bad miss. The Italian scuffs his shot just yards from goal. His confidence looks at rock bottom at the moment.

Former England captain Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Old Trafford

"That gives Manchester United the three points. It has been difficult for Sunderland, playing with 10 men after the sending-off of Wes Brown, but the manager Gus Poyet will be disappointed with the way that goal was conceded. It was too simple."

SUBSTITUTION

And scoring Manchester United's second goal is Wayne Rooney's final contribution. The home skipper is withdrawn - to a rapturous round of applause - as Juan Mata comes on for the final five minutes.

Still Southampton come forward looking for an equaliser...

GREAT SAVE!

Good work by Swans goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianki as he turns Sam Vokes' near post shot wide from George Boyd's right-wing cross.

GOAL

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Now Adnan Januzaj definitely deserves to go out for a celebratory meal. The young Belgian is the architect of Manchester United's second goal, his low shot parried by Sunderland keeper Costel Pantilimon to the feet of Wayne Rooney. The Red Devils skipper snaffles the chance and that is game over.

Adnan Januzaj has been excellent since coming on at the break, constantly asking questions of the Sunderland defence. That's more like the teenage prodigy who burst on to the scene last season. He should go out for a Nando's tonight to celebrate...

CLOSE!

Almost game over. A half clearance from Maya Yoshida falls invitingly to the feet of Darren Fletcher inside the penalty area but he blazes the ball over. Tony Pulis can't believe that hasn't gone in.

League Two latest

Wycombe's Fred Onyedinma has scored his second of the game to make it 2-2 at home to Stevenage. Chris Beardsley has been sent off for Stevenage for a second yellow card.

League leaders Burton are still trailing Newport 0-1 whilesecond placed Shrewsbury are 0-2 down to Northampton.

Burnley need something if they are going to climb out of the bottom three but it doesn't look likely at the moment. Swansea are comfortable.

Former England captain Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Old Trafford

"Even though Manchester United have had so much of the ball there's not much threatening the Sunderland goal. They're not that inspiring, United. There are too many touches on the ball - five or six touches before they get it in the box. But United are well on top and you wonder if there's a second goal coming soon."

More Manchester United pressure as the away side cling on. Marcos Rojo reacts quickest when Black Cats keeper Costel Pantilimon untidily gathers Adnan Januzaj's long-range shot at the second attempt, sliding in to try and take advantage. The big Romanian is not happy though, launching a few choice words at the United man.

Championship latest

Wigan have taken a big step in their fight against relegation from the Championship as Harry Maguire has put the Latics 2-0 up against bottom placed Blackpool. "We are staying up" is the chant from the away fans at Bloomfield Road.

Text us on 81111

Shohan Sen, Kent: Wes Brown said he wanted potentially his last trip to Old Trafford to be memorable. I'm sure he didn't mean a case of mistaken identity with a red card! (see 16:20)

Get in touch using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

SUBSTITUTION

Here comes former Baggie Shane Long. The striker is on for midfielder Dusan Tadic. A few jeers greet his arrival. Will he make them pay?

HITS THE WOODWORK

Newcastle need a second and they so nearly get one. Free kick for Ryan Taylor from 20 yards is pushed away by Brad Guzan. They go closer seconds later as Ayoze Perez heads against the outside of the post after a poor punch from Guzan.

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

"I think Villa have shown a lot of courage. Despite going behind in the first half, they've stayed in the game and had two goals ruled out."

DISALLOWED GOAL

The game is opening up at St. James' Park. Villa have seen two chances go begging - both from Christian Benteke. First, his effort from Ashley Westwood's corner was blocked by Fabricio Coloccini and then the Belgian was flagged offside as he slid in to convert Westwood's low cross in the aftermath of the corner. Newcastle hanging on.

GOAL

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What an inspired substitution! Stoke striker Peter Crouch is on the pitch for little over a minute (one minute and one second to be precise) before netting the opener. Unsurprisingly the former England beanpole using his head, beautifully nodding in Charlie Adam's precise cross-field pass into the corner.

That's four goals in four matches for the big man.

SUBSTITUTION

You would expect Manchester United to go on and score a couple now against Sunderland's 10 men. What a great chance this would be for Radamel Falcao to bag a confidence-boosting goal. Ah. maybe not. He is dragged off to be replaced by Marouane Fellaini.

League One latest

Preston are in complete control in the North West derby as they lead Oldham 3-0. Joe Garner scored the Lilywhites third, who as it stands are on equal points with second placed MK Dons who are losing 2-1 away to Coventry.

Richard Wood has scored for fourth from bottom Crawley who lead Sheffield United 1-0. Leyton Orient who are also in the relegation places are 2-0 up against Walsall.

WHAT A MISS!

How did that stay out? A flashing cross across the face of goal by Ryan Bertrand but somehow Graziano Pelle fails to find the finishing touch from yards out. Hands on his head and I'm not surprised, you have to score Graziano. A let off for the Baggies.

Some 0-0 draws can be absorbing spectacles. Some 0-0 draws can be plain drab. This is the latter. Let's move on...

Championship latest

Sheffield Wednesday have taken a shock 2-0 lead against second placed Middlesbrough scoring twice in two minutes Atdhe Nuhiu scored a penalty before on-loan Manchester United striker Will Keane doubled the home side's lead.

At Elland Road Matej Vydra has scored an equaliser for Watford to make it 2-2, Leeds had been 2-0 up after 20 minutes.

Nottingham Forest have taken the lead against Reading through Ben Osborn, while relegation-threatened Millwall suffer a setback as Danny Ward equalises for Rotherham to make it 1-1 just after the restart.

Burnley are trying to get back into this match but, for all their efforts, a lack of quality up top is showing. Still 20 minutes left though.

Former England captain Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Old Trafford

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"Wayne Rooney did his job on the penalty kick, hitting it low and hard into the corner, but I don't think we have heard the end of this yet. I said it was John O'Shea who fouled Radamel Falcao, but Wes Brown saw red. Whatever, it was a penalty - I don't think the referee could have given much else really. The ball came in, Falcao took it down beautifully on his right foot, and as he turned I thought it was O'Shea who held on to Falcao's left arm and his leg was across him."

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

"It's a clear sending off. John O'Shea tackles Radamel Falcao on the penalty spot. He gives the striker a tug. The ref sees Falcao go down. But clearly he's sent off the wrong player, because he's sent off Wes Brown. Now John O'Shea should have said: 'Referee, it was me.'"

GOAL

Getty Images

Wayne Rooney has never gone nine Manchester United games without scoring - and he still hasn't! The Red Devils skipper keeps calm to fire into the bottom left corner. Breakthrough for the home side.

GOAL

Getty Images

Corner swung in from the right, Bafetimbi Gomis flicks the ball on and Federico Fernandes's shot is brilliantly kept out by Tom Heaton. Kieran Tripper attempts to clear the ball but puts it into his own net.

Heaton attempts to scramble the ball clear but it had clearly gone over the line.

RED CARD FOR SUNDERLAND

Confusion. Sunderland skipper John O'Shea appears to be the man who tugs Radamel Falcao to the ground, with team-mate Wes Brown arriving on the scene to muscle in.

But referee Roger East rules that it is Brown who was the main culprit, showing him the red card despite his protests.

That is likely to be the day's big talking point, particularly coming just hours after the announcement of a delay in plans for trials of more video technology.

PENALTY TO MAN UTD

PA

Stonewall penalty for Manchester United. Radamel Falcao looks certain to fire in from close range - but is dragged back by a combination of Sunderland pair John O'Shea and Wes Brown.

Alan Green

Final Score at Old Trafford

"Adnan Januzaj came on at half-time for Angel Di Maria, who'd been largely unthreatening. Januzaj started on the right. After two minutes he switched to left and Ashley Young went to the right. After a further two minutes, they switched again. What is going on with this Manchester United team? Are they being over-drilled by Louis van Gaal? It ain't working.

"The game can over-complicated by systems. I look at a player such as Wayne Rooney. I believe he can play effectively in most positions. But you have to be an idiot to think Rooney's best position is in midfield. He's a striker. That's where he'll be playing for England next month. He's in possession in the centre circle. He's doing that under instruction, and it ain't working."

Manchester United are camped in the Sunderland half as the Old Trafford crowd urges their side forward. Half-time substitute Adnan Januzaj flashes a shot agonisingly wide.

GREAT SAVE!

So close for Villa. Tom Cleverley gets in from Christian Benteke's flick on but Tim Krul does brilliantly to save the low eight-yard shot with his feet. Villa's best chance of the match.

Charlie Adam was brought on at half-time to swing this match in Stoke's favour - and the Scotland midfielder is trying his best to do exactly that.

Adam brushes Hull's left-hand post with another decent effort, looking up to the sky with his hands over his mouth when his 25-yard free-kick whistles past.

CLOSE!

Ashley Barnes has been a threat throughout and sends a volley on the turn just past the post. A goal would be massive for Burnley.

SUBSTITUTION

PA

Massadio Haidara leaves the field on a stretcher and Ryan Taylor replaces him. Taylor will deputise at left back for Newcastle.

Former England captain Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Old Trafford

"The movement off the ball is a real problem for Manchester United. Just now Ashley Young expected Marcos Rojo to be there on the overlap (see 16:12) but there was nobody. The United players are cautious, but they do look a little bit sharper in this second half."

CLOSE!

Getty Images

Papiss Cisse comes close to adding a second for Newcastle. More suspect marking allows the striker a free header from Sammy Ameobi's free-kick but the effort is a couple of yards wide of Brad Guzan's goal.

SUBSTITUTION

Getty Images

Youssouf Mulumbu is on for the injured Saido Berahino in attack for his first appearance under Tony Pulis. Looks like a muscle injury of some sort. Southampton will be glad to see the back of him.

We don't want to talk this match down - but it truly is dreadful. Stoke substitute Charlie Adam scuttles a low shot past the Hull upright in the closest chance of the second half. Our statistics show there has been just one shot on target so far...

Saido Berahino goes down and it looks like the West Brom striker is coming off...

PENALTY APPEAL

Big penalty appeal as Michael Kightly hits the ball against Federico Fernandez's hand, but it was more ball to hand.

Oh dear. Groans from the Old Trafford crowd as Ashley Young, on the left edge of the Sunderland box, passes to... no one. I presume the Manchester United winger thinks team-mate Marcos Rojo is on his shoulder. He isn't.

United boss Louis van Gaal responds by scribbling a note in his A4 pad. "Must pass the ball better in the opponents' half..."

Villa have come out strongly but, as was the story in the first half, they look toothless in attack.

Gary Lineker

Match of the Day host

"Terrific fight to be last on MOTD tonight."

Join Gary on BBC One tonight at 22:30 GMT.

Adnan Januzaj has brought some impetus to Manchester United in the opening stages of the second half. The Belgian forces a couple of corners in quick succession, as centre-back Marcos Rojo pounces on a loose ball from the second to lash high into the Stretford End.

Championship latest

PA

The big story in the Championship is at Craven Cottage, where league leaders Derby trail Fulham 2-0.

Defender Nikolay Bodurov scored after 30 minutes before Cauley Woodrow doubled the Cottagers' lead with a header in injury time.

Second placed Middlesbrough are drawing 0-0 away to Sheffield Wednesday.

At the other end of the Championship Kim Bo-Kyung has put second from bottom Wigan ahead in injury time against bottom placed Blackpool at Bloomfield Road. A win would leave the Latics six points adrift of safety.

Third from bottom Millwall are leading Rotherham 1-0. If the Lions win they will go on equal points with Rotherham and only in the relegation places on goal difference.

Elsewhere Leeds are 2-1 up against Watford thanks to an early strike from Billy Sharp and a wonder goal from Rudolph Austin.

Wolves lead Cardiff 1-0.

SUBSTITUTION

Getty Images

Injured referee Phil Dowd is replaced at half time by third official Graham Scott, while Southampton midfielder Steven Davis replaces Victor Wanyama in the centre of the pitch. Two subs made by the Saints already.

Stoke boss Mark Hughes also decides to throw the tactical dice. Sparky brings on Scotland midfielder Charlie Adam for Stephen Ireland in what appears to be a tactical change.

Get involved

Simon in Leicester: Has Tim Sherwood not watched any Aston Villa games before he got the job? Carles Gil is our most creative player and he drops him.

KICK-OFF

Premier League players across the country are returning from their half-time breaks. The second halves are under way...

Can we have a few goals? Please?

SUBSTITUTION

Looks like there is about to be a half-time switch for Manchester United. Adnan Januzaj is stripped and ready to rumble. The Belgian is replacing... Angel Di Maria. No indication as yet that the Argentine is injured. Not the sort of 45 minutes that you expect for almost £60m...

Half-time

Alan Green

Final Score at Old Trafford

"I've been coming to Old Trafford for 33 years. I've seen a lot of Manchester United. There are a lot of very good players out there today but they're all being shackled by their coach. That's why they're not good to watch at the moment."

Half-time stats

Opta

As Jimmy Armfield rightly points out (see 15:52), Manchester United have enjoyed more than 70% possession against Sunderland. This graphic shows the home side have hogged the ball and dominated territory - but they haven't made a telling mark on the one stat that matters the most.

Clinical Berahino

BBC

Clinical stuff from West Brom's Saido Berahino, as shown by his touch graphic above. One touch inside the penalty area and one goal. There can be no complaints about his work rate either - he has been all over the pitch.

Get involved

James Cole: Football under Louis van Gaal is about controlled possession - it's a different style and it'll take time to catch hold.

Ben Hibburd: Di Maria is woeful, he looks completely disinterested, he needs to be dropped.

Paul Crask: Did LVG forget to tell them they are allowed to score ? So long as it's done according to his philosopy, of course.

Andrew Morris: No incisiveness from United. It's been the trend ever since Ferguson left. What's changed!? Need pace so badly.

Former England captain Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Old Trafford

"I don't think Louis van Gaal will be very happy going in for half-time at 0-0. Manchester United have had about 70-80% of the possession but perhaps it is movement off the ball that is required a little earlier. There's been a lot of promise but very little fulfilment from United. Sunderland are giving them a problem, and it's the midfield that Van Gaal has got to sort out."

League One latest

Coventry who started the day in the relegation places lead second place MK Dons 2-0 at the Ricoh Arena. A Chris Stokes header and Dominic Samuel put the home side ahead 13 minutes.

League leaders Bristol City are 1-0 up Rochdale thanks to a Aaron Wilbraham header.

In the north-west derby Preston are 2-0 up against manager-less Oldham with Paul Huntington and Daniel Johnson on target for the Lilywhites.

Yeovil, who prop up the bottom of the league, have been given a ray of hope as Joel Grant given them the lead away to Scunthorpe.

Text us on 81111

Steven: The Manchester United players need to tell Louis van Gaal: "LET ME PLAY!" All these tactics, slow slow slow!

Sam Watkins, Chichester: Absolutely fuming, Saints need to better than this if we want top four, pull your socks up lads!

Narek, Bromley: Van Gaal has to go before it's too late. These top class players won't qualify for Champions League once again.

Get in touch using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

"It's not a particularly inspiring game. It's a bit niggly. A draw will be a good result for Steve Bruce and Hull.

"Whenever I see Bruce's players, they look like they're playing for him."

HALF-TIME

Jonathan Pearce

BBC Match of the Day commentator at the Britannia Stadium

"Many thought it would be goalless here - and they're not wrong so far."

HALF-TIME

Steve Wilson

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"What a frustrating half it has been for Southampton.

"Berahino scored a wonderful goal after 71 seconds. Southampton have been frustrated and have been unable to get themselves on the score sheet."

HALF-TIME

Alistair Mann

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"Burnley's Ashley Barnes had the best chance of the first half which was saved by Lukas Fabianski and Bafetimbi Gomis missed chances for Swansea but it remains 0-0 at the break."

HALF-TIME

Guy Mowbray

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"The game took an age to get going but it has for the team in black and white thanks to Papiss Cisse. Villa need to improve ... again."

CLOSE!

A rare moment of quality as Swansea's Jonjo Shelvey plays a one two on the edge of the penalty area before curling a shot inches wide of the top corner from 20 yards.

HALF-TIME

Simon Brotherton

Match of the Day commentator at Old Trafford

"A largely frustrating first half for Manchester United who have gone close and asked questions of Sunderland. But the visitors have had some moments as well. At half time it is wide open."

Stoke have started to edge this one, but are failing to stretch Hull keeper Allan McGregor. Potters winger Victor Moses has looked the sharpest player on the pitch.

Championship latest

Getty Images

Bit of a shock on the cards in the Championship as 20th placed Fulham now lead Derby 2-0, Cauley Woodrow adding to Nikolay Bodurov's opener.

CLOSE!

Newcastle go close to doubling their lead as Emmanuel Riviere heads over from Sammy Ameobi's corner. Villa need half time.

Still the arguments go on about West Brom's apparent time wasting. Manager Ronald Koeman is remonstrating on the sidelines with the visiting fans counting to 10 every time play is stopped.

Reuters

These Manchester United chances are starting to arrive quicker than peak-time Tube trains at Oxford Circus. A home corner drops to the feet of Marcos Rojo, whose low shot is hacked off the Black Cats line by Seb Larsson.

Can Louis van Gaal's men find a breakthrough before half-time? About five minutes (plus stoppages) to go.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Now Aston Villa are going to have to show all sorts of personality and character. They were having the better of the possession but now Newcastle's tails are up. It's like a knife to the heart when you're in Villa's position - every goal you concede can really damage you."

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

AP

"It's really important that Villa get to half-time, regroup and try to get back into the game. If they go 2-0 down before half-time, it's game over.

"John Carver got the job at Newcastle until the end of the season because he's popular. It's about results. If they play OK, he's got a chance of getting the job full-time."

CLOSE!

Tom Heaton is called into his first meaningful save of the afternoon. His poor clearance is played to Bafetimbi Gomes by Jonjo Shelvey and his 20-yard low strike is saved well by the Burnley stopper.

Free-kick on the edge of the Sunderland box - Wayne Rooney is the man hovering over the ball. The United skipper pulls rank and whips a lovely effort towards the roof of the Sunderland net. But lanky Black Cats keeper Costel Pantilimon is alert to push over.

GOAL

PA

It gets worse for Aston Villa. Daryl Janmaat crosses from the right, the ball is missed by the Villa defence, and Papiss Cisse controls with his first touch before clinically finishing low into the net.

Not an abundance of goals to shout about in the Premier League so far this afternoon and we don't look like getting one at Turf Moor at the moment. The Clarets have had the better chances but poor quality all round so far in East Lancashire.

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

"Manchester United need to take the handbrake off. If I was in that United dressing room, I'd be having arguments with my manager. I'd be saying: 'Are you going to allow me to play? Or are you going to keep restricting me? You're bogging me down with tactics. Let me go and play.' These are top-class players. They're not being allowed to play."

Manchester United doing most of the leg work at Old Trafford, pinning Sunderland back in their own half. Ashley Young continues his recent rich vein of form, providing the brightest attacking spark for the Champions League-chasing side. The United winger goes close again, cutting in from the left before flashing another shot past the far post.

Southampton are looking a different side now they have reverted to their usual 4-4-2 system. They are getting in behind West Brom now as Sadio Mane again shoots over.

Referee Phil Dowd appears to be struggling with some sort of injury. One to keep an eye on.

Football League latest

Billy Sharp and Rodolph Austin have given Leeds a 2-0 lead against Watford at Elland Road after 19 minutes. Sharp struck his fourth of the season after seven minutes before Austin planted in a stunning half-volley from 30 yards, finding the top left corner.

Elsewhere, Martyn Woolford has given relegation-threatened Millwall a lifeline as they lead 1-0 at Rotherham. A win for the Lions will put Ian Holloway's side on equal points with the Millers, who sit one place above the drop zone.

Bakary Sako has put Wolves ahead in Cardiff while league leaders Derby have just gone behind at Fulham.

What a chance for Craig Gardner. The Baggies midfielder is through on goal but is muscled out by Jose Fonte. Half-hearted appeals for a penalty but no chance. He has to do better there.

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

"Tim Sherwood has got Villa going. But if they concede, do they have the courage to keep playing this way?"

ACROBATIC EFFORT

Tim Krul is forced to dive to his right to push away a spectacular overhead kick from Villa's Christian Benteke. The Belgian striker has gone eight games without a goal but looks to be in the mood today.

BBC Final Score

Peter Slater at the Britannia Stadium: "I've not seen a Saturday goal for three weeks. Nothing so far to suggest that's going to change."

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Arsene Wenger used to say you have to be free in your mind to play well, and it just seems like Louis van Gaal is equipping his players with too much information almost. The build-up play is so slow and in taking too much time with the ball they are going to get picked off here because Jermain Defoe has got too much for Jonny Evans."

One word to sum up Stoke v Hull so far? I'm going for drab. Stoke left-back Erik Pieters hacking the heels of Gaston Ramirez to earn the game's first yellow card is as good as it gets.

CLOSE!

Reuters

A brilliant defence-splitting pass from Morgan Schneiderlin is chested down by Sadio Mane inside the penalty area but, with players waiting for the pass, his shot is wildly fired over.

Former England captain Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Old Trafford

"We just saw a back pass played to David De Gea after a period of possession and the whole crowd booed. There is nothing worse than that - your home fans booing you. There's an anxiety Manchester United seem to have when playing at home, but they have to get out there and make it happen."

HITS THE WOODWORK

For many years, Sunderland skipper John O'Shea was used to helping Manchester United - and he nearly gives his former club a hand here. The Irish centre-half is brilliantly positioned to block Ashley Young's low drill across goal, but watches in horror as the ball loops off his right boot towards the net. But the crossbar comes to the rescue of O'Shea and Sunderland.

CLOSE!

Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke fires wide with a snap shot from the edge of the area after Ashley Westwood's cross from deep. Newcastle keeper Tim Krul probably had it covered.

CLOSE!

Shortly after Ashley Barnes' chance for Burnley, Swansea go up to the other end and Wayne Routledge flicks an effort wide of goal. Goalkeeper Tom Heaton scythes Routledge after the shot and appeals for a penalty go up, but nothing doing from referee Jonathan Moss.

CLOSE!

Another chance for West Brom as Michael Dawson rises highest to head into the hands of goalkeeper Fraser Forster.

Saints boss Ronald Koeman has seen enough as he stops his 3-5-2 experiment, bringing on winger Eljero Elia on for centre back Florin Gardos. Back to a 4-4-2.

Angel Di Maria bravely manages to clamber to his feet (that's sarcasm) before whipping in a free-kick that is cleared by the Sunderland defence. Then, Jonny Evans goes all the way back to United keeper David De Gea - prompting huge groans from the Old Trafford crowd.

GREAT SAVE!

PA

Good save by Lukasz Fabianski to keep out Ashley Barnes's close-range striker from Kieran Trippier's left-wing cross.

Some of these Premier League players want to take out a leaf out of Madonna's book. We're looking at you Angel Di Maria. The Argentine is given a slight tug of the shirt by Sunderland defender Patrick van Aanholt - and collapses to the turf before rolling over at least four times.

Still not much to report from the Britannia Stadium. No shots on either goal yet. Well, none that have tested either keeper anyway. Hull's Sone Aluko is the latest to have a go, nipping past a Potters defender but then firing wide after doing the hard bit.

Ominous signs for Burnley. They know how important a win could in the battle against the drop but it is Swansea looking the more threatening. The visitors are yet to create anything worthwhile but there are signs it is coming.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

"Yes the referee was correct to rule that one of for offside (see 15:15) but Gabriel Agbonlahor and Christian Benteke combined well in the build-up. We haven't seen them playing up front together very much this season. Encouraging signs for Aston Villa."

Southampton fans aren't happy as they accuse West Brom of time-wasting tactics. Bit early for all that nonsense isn't it? Not sure their shouts are justified either.

Wayne Rooney is back up front in his favoured position, but it is another England forward who looks likeliest to net the opener. Moments after Rooney sloppily gives away the ball on the edge of the Sunderland box, the predatory Jermain Defoe sniffs out an opportunity at the other end. The Black Cats striker fancies his chances from distance, but home keeper David De Gea is square behind the ball to gather.

DISALLOWED GOAL

Not a lot to report from St. James' Park. Gabriel Agbonlahor has had the ball in the net but he was offside when Christian Benteke's header reached him. That's about it.

The Baggies have lost just one of nine league and cup matches under Tony Pulis and they certainly look a team full of confidence. Saido Berahino continues to cause the Saints problems and it is all one-way traffic.

Former England captain Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Old Trafford

"A real chance for Sunderland (see 15:07). Manchester United got themselves into a mess, allowing Connor Wickham to run about 40 yards with the ball - Jonny Evans should have closed him down earlier. David De Gea managed to get a finger down to tip the ball round the post though. United have not sorted their line of three at the back, they're untidy."

Delayed kick-off

Kick-off has been delayed at the Goldsands Stadium in the Championship until 15:30 GMT due to a road accident on the A338.

Back come Manchester United after that early scare (see 15:07). Some last-ditch defending from Black Cats full-back Anthony Reveillere prevents Marcos Rojo bundling in a left-wing cross, before Ashley Young sends a vicious shot whistling over the crossbar.

Edgy stuff at Turf Moor in the opening 10 minutes. Both sides sizing each other up and little to talk about so far.

Quiet start at the Britannia where old Manchester United team-mates Mark Hughes and Steve Bruce go head to head. The earliest sign of a chance falls to Stoke, Steven Nzonzi firing wide. But there's some bad news for Hull boss Bruce. Egypt wing-back Ahmed Elmohamady pulls up with an injury and needs treatment.

CLOSE!

Saido Berahino looks so sharp. The striker bursts towards Southampton's goal, slips Brown Ideye in but his shot is blocked by a couple of Saints defenders. The visitors look rattled.

There was a huge standing ovation before kick off at Newcastle United for substitute Jonas Gutierrez, who is involved in the the first team for the first time in 17 months after battling cancer.

The hosts are yet to get going on the field though.

CLOSE!

Warning sign for Manchester United. Louis van Gaal's side are left horribly exposed at the back as Sunderland counter when Angel Di Maria is dispossessed.

Connor Wickham surges forward, has Jermain Defoe to his right, but goes for glory himself. Wickham's low shot almost sneaks in the corner, but United keeper David De Gea is alert to push clear.

Moments later, Defoe blazes over from the edge of the area. Van Gaal has a bemused, almost shocked, smile.

A decent start by Burnley and George Boyd has a shot on the turn saved by goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski.

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

"It was a sensational finish by Saido Berahino. But the ball travels a mile from the West Brom free-kick. It travels 40-50 yards. Southampton win the header but don't pick up the second ball. You've got to pick up the second ball."

CLOSE!

Villa have started brightly and Daryl Janmaat was forced to clear behind his own goal from Christian Benteke's teasing cross as Scott Sinclair was lurking at the back post.

Sunderland defender John O'Shea sees the back of Wayne Rooney's shirt as the Manchester United skipper leaves him for dust. I suspect that was a regular occurrence in United training sessions when the pair were team-mates.

That leads to a flurry of home corners, with Rooney going close with a near-post header from Angel Di Maria's centre. Positive start from the home team.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown

Final Score

Reuters

"Saido Berahino has got that quality. A lot of people were saying he might go in the January transfer window, possibly to finance one or two arrivals, but they've kept him there and he's done a great job. Fraser Forster couldn't do anything about that one."

GOAL

Getty Images

Scenes at West Brom as the hosts take the lead in the first attack of the game. Chris Brunt's free kick was half cleared by Maya Yoshida and Saido Berahino was on hand to rifle the rebound into the top corner from 10 yards. A stunning strike with his first touch.

KICK-OFF

Whistles sound for the first time across the north-west, the north-east and the Midlands. We have lift off in our five Premier League matches.

Manager reaction

Reuters

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce: "I'm shocked. Our level of performance wasn't where I expected it to be. It's disappointing when we've built expectation levels so high at home. It's about the basics, really. If we don't play to our best, we'll struggle. We warned the lads about Crystal Palace's set plays because 50% of their goals have come from set-plays. And we've conceded from two corners and a free-kick.

"I think Glenn Murray could have been sent off in the first half for the number of fouls he committed. He was lucky to stay on for that long. We should have had a penalty for the foul on Diafra Sakho, and it should have been a red card for Mile Jedinak too. That would have made it 3-2, and then you never know."

Manager reaction

Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew: "Up until the sending off, we were in total control, but we don't make it easy for ourselves. We had some scary moments.

"It was a mixed afternoon for Glenn Murray. He could have had a hat-trick in the first half. He gets into the right positions. The sending off was a little bit unlucky. He has to go for the ball, and I don't think he deserved that. I spoke to him at half-time. We all knew he was on a knife edge.

"But I'm absolutely delighted with him. He was terrific. It shouldn't take away from a terrific performance."

On Mile Jedinak's alleged elbow on Diafra Sakho: "Jedinak's cleared the ball. I don't think there was anything malicious. If the media want to pick up on it, we'll see where it goes."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Saquil Hoque: Is this the day Manchester United finally play 4-2-3-1 with Ashley Young and Angel Di Maria wide? I certainly hope so.

Get in touch using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

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Former England captain Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Old Trafford

"I know a lot of people have been saying otherwise but I still think Manchester United are doing reasonably well. Of course they want the fluency of the Ferguson era, but it is a results business.

"Louis van Gaal has had a few trips along the way, but they have got the players, and I think in this latter part of the season, this is where he has to prove a point. This is the kind of match where he will be saying; 'Let's really go for it.'"

Getty Images

The teams are in the tunnels around the country. Not long now...

Manager preview

Stoke manager Mark Hughes: "This is a key week for us. We've got two really important home games. Hull have had a bit of a boost in confidence, and they'll have been buoyed by recent results. They're in better form than two or three weeks ago, but we're playing well too."

Manager preview

Hull manager Steve Bruce: "Unfortunately, Nikica Jelavic tweaked his knee on Thursday, and with the operation he's had on it, we can't take a risk. Dame N'Doye has been halfway round the world in the last 10 days, having come here from Russia via Senegal, so we've decided to put him on the bench.

"Let's hope our good run continues. We've lost a couple of players today, but we're healthier than we were three months ago, when we had seven, eight, nine missing."

'Van Gaal a bluffer, van Persie not trying'

Former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson

Football Focus

"Louis van Gaal is turning into a bit of a bluffer if you ask me, Manchester United are so slow in their build-up play. When you played against United you could never get your breath back but now they are slow and methodical. David Moyes would have gone if they had been playing like this. Get Wayne Rooney up front, let him play with Radamel Falcao, because Robin van Persie does not give you enough. It's a terrible thing to say as an ex-professional, but I don't think van Persie tries hard enough."

League Two preview

Top side in League Two Burton can press on for promotion when they host Newport, but hot on their heels Shrewsbury can close the gap with maximum points against Northampton.

Another defeat for bottom side Hartlepool against Wimbledon will see them edge closer to relegation, but Cheltenham can climb out of the drop zone with a win against Tranmere.

Plymouth entertain Bury, Portsmouth host Oxford and Luton face Dagenham & Redbridge.

The full League Two fixture list can be found here

League One preview

Getty Images

Bristol City can extend their five point lead in League One with a win over Rochdale, but second-placed MK Dons will be confident of collecting all three points when they travel to struggling Coventry.

Crawley and Leyton Orient have the opportunity to climb out of the relegation zone with wins over Sheffield United and Walsall respectively, while FA Cup quarter-finalists Bradford will look to maintain their promotion push against Peterborough.

Oldham host Preston in a North West derby, Chesterfield play Fleetwood and Lee Johnson takes charge of Barnsley for the first time at Gillingham.

The full League One fixture list can be found here

Championship preview

Getty Images

The most interesting match in the Championship this afternoon sees the bottom two sides in action at Bloomfield Road. Blackpool - rooted to the bottom - take on Wigan, one win in their last 11. A draw would be good for neither side.

Leaders Derby can extend their advantage at the top of the table with victory over struggling Fulham, but the Rams would need Sheffield Wednesday to halt second-placed Middlesbrough for that to happen.

Elsewhere, Bournemouth host Blackburn, Leeds face Watford and Charlton entertain Huddersfield.

The full Championship fixture list can be found here

Has a player or manager been to your house?

Pete Serjeant: Neil Warnock came to my parents' house in Cornwall, bought it and has managed to stay longer than he has in any recent managerial roles!

FULL-TIME

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"A well deserved victory for Crystal Palace, their game plan worked very well. They looked very strong, while West Ham now have a lot to ponder with some big games coming up. They dominated the game after Glenn Murray's red card but Julian Speroni was excellent in the Crystal Palace goal."

Vote

BBC Final Score

We've teamed up with Final Score to ask whether you think Manchester United will finish in the top four. Vote now at the top of the page - the vote will end at 17:00 GMT. Terms and conditions can be found here.

Charlton backs Van Gaal

Sir Bobby Charlton thinks Louis van Gaal was "surprised by the enormity" of Manchester United when he took over as manager last summer.

But, writing in today's matchday programme ahead of Sunderland's visit to Old Trafford, the United director insists the Dutchman will be a success at the club.

He wrote: "A new manager comes in and has lots of things on his mind, a lot to think about at once, and Louis van Gaal was perhaps a little surprised by the enormity of the club.

"I am not worried about the season or the future. I think we can look forward to some fantastic times here."

He has to say that...

FULL-TIME

Reuters

But it is a far from happy scene among the Hammers fans trudging out of the Boleyn Ground. Watching Eastenders is more fun than watching the Hammers for Irons fans at the moment. That's now just one win in 10 Premier League matches since Christmas.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Edward Hamilton: What a brilliant result. Superb performance from the mighty Eagles, super Alan Pardew! Five successive away victories!

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FULL-TIME

Jubilant scenes among the Palace contingent. The Eagles players wander over to the Trevor Brooking Stand where the band of travelling supporters are gathered, winger Jason Puncheon embracing a woman on the front row before throwing his shirt into the crowd. Palace are up to 12th in the top-flight table ahead of the 15:00 GMT kick-offs.

FULL-TIME

Delighted Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew punches the chilly East London air as referee Mike Dean calls time on an action-packed second half.

And Pardew deserves to look happy with himself. That's 13 points from a possible 21 as the Eagles soar towards safety.

Palace keeper Julian Speroni gathers a long ball pumped upfield from his opposite number Adrian. The Argentine clings to the ball like a crying baby holding their favourite teddy bear. He doesn't want to give it up as the clock ticks down towards a precious Palace win.

Anywhere will do for Palace. Visiting full-back Martin Kelly pumps a bouncing ball high into the stand to waste a few more precious moments. Palace almost home...

INJURY TIME

Five minutes of stoppage time. That's five minutes for West Ham to nab two goals.

Last minute of the allotted 90. West Ham probe for an opening, but can't find a way through. Palace's 10 men look solid.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"Wonderful save. There wasn't much on but Enner Valencia turned and hit the ball with real power from distance. It was dipping in but Julian Speroni makes a wonderful save to turn the ball round. The home side are beginning to show some reaction now but it took them going 3-0 down and Glenn Murray being sent off for them to wake up."

GREAT SAVE!

What a save! Palace keeper Julian Speroni may just have won his team three points here. Hammers striker Enner Valencia unleashes a ferocious effort from outside the area, but Speroni flies across his goal to pluck the ball out of the top corner. If that had sailed in then an equalising Hammers goal will have been firmly on the cards.

Starting now

BBC Final Score

Don't forget Final Score is starting any minute now on the Red Button and at the top of this page. Jason Mohammad is joined in the studio by Martin Keown and Garthn Crooks.

If West Ham can bag another in the next few minutes then we're set for a barnstorming finish. A swarm of claret and blue shirts buzz around the Palace half, but the final ball is too strong. Top scorer Diafra Sakho leaps in vain, but can't guide the ball towards the net.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"West Ham are having joy getting the ball out wide. Crystal Palace are very strong in central areas but down their left-hand side particularly they're struggling. Joe Ledley has come on in that position and from here it is all about defending for Palace. When Diafra Sakho headed over (79 mins), a better ball from Carl Jenkinson there and it could have been 3-2."

This match has turned into a training ground game of 'attack versus defence'. West Ham are camped in the Palace half as the 10 men sit back and try to repel the waves of home attacks. Two more chances go begging for the Hammers, Palace keeper Julian Speroni smothering Carl Jenkinson's close-range effort before Stewart Downing finds the side-netting with a low shot.

Team news

Newcastle boss John Carver makes four changes after the 5-0 thrashing by Manchester City. Midfielders Gabriel Obertan, Mehdi Abeid and Sammy Ameobi plus forward Emmanuel Riviere are recalled with Jack Colback, Vurnon Anita, Yoan Gouffran and Ayoze Perez making way. Jonas Gutierrez is on the bench.

Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood also make four changes. Defenders Jores Okore and Matthew Lowton, as well as midfielders Tom Cleverley and Ashley Westwood, replace Ron Vlaar, Kieran Richardson, Carles Gil and Carlos Sanchez.

Newcastle XI: Krul, Janmaat, Coloccini, Williamson, Haidara, Obertan, Sissoko, Abeid, Ameobi, Riviere, Cisse.

Aston Villa XI: Guzan, Hutton, Okore, Clark, Lowton, Sinclair, Delph, Cleverley, Westwood, Agbonlahor, Benteke.

Team news

West Brom keep the same side that drew 0-0 with Sunderland last week so Saido Berahino and Brown ideye start up front.

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman has shuffled his team around with five changes after defeat against Liverpool. Florin Gardos, Ryan Bertrand, Morgan Schneiderlin, Dusan Tadic and Saido Mane all come in.

West Brom XI: Foster, Dawson, McAuley, Lescott, Brunt, Morrison, Yacob, Fletcher, Gardner, Ideye, Berahino.

Southampton XI: Forster, Clyne, Fonte, Yoshida, Gardos, Bertrand, Wanyama, Schneiderlin, Tadić, Mané, Pellè.

West Ham squandered a 2-0 lead at Tottenham last weekend - surely they cannot wipe out Palace's three-goal advantage? The Hammers almost nab a second goal, as Diafra Sakho flashes a close-range header - from Carl Jenkinson's teasing right-wing cross - over the bar.

Team news

Stoke manager Mark Hughes has decided against changing the side which won 2-1 at Aston Villa last Saturday, and so defender Geoff Cameron is on the bench after serving a one-match ban. Ryan Shawcross remains out with a back injury.

Hull striker Nikica Jelavic suffered a minor knee injury during training on Thursday, and so manager Steve Bruce has adjusted his front line, bringing in Sone Aluko and Gaston Ramirez. Dame N'Doye drops to the bench. Maynor Figueroa comes in for Robbie Brady.

Stoke XI: Begovic; Bardsley, Wollscheid, Wilson, Pieters; N'Zonzi, Whelan; Walters, Ireland, Moses; Diouf.

Hull XI: McGregor; Dawson, Bruce, McShane; Elmohamaday, Livermore, Huddlestone, Meyler, Figueroa; Ramirez, Aluko.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"I actually thought Julian Speroni had turned the ball round the post but it ended up in the net. Enner Valencia shifted the ball half a yard on the edge of the box after good play from Stewart Downing and got his shot away. A lifeline for West Ham."

GOAL

Here's one of them! West Ham nick a goal back as Enner Valencia finds the bottom corner with a fierce drive. The Ecuador striker calmly rolls the ball into space with the sole of his his boot before blasting past an unsighted Palace keeper Julian Speroni from 20 yards. Game on?

Can West Ham take advantage of Glenn Murray's dismissal? Possibly. But I'd suggest they can't take advantage three times and nick a draw. The Hammers have been woeful in the final third - now they have to break down a wall of 10 yellow shirts.

Team news

Burnley manager Sean Dyche sticks with the side that drew against Chelsea last week, so Ashley Barnes keeps his place in attack.

Swansea make one change to the side that beat Manchester United last weekend, with Tom Carroll coming in for Gylfi Sigurdsson in midfield.

Burnley XI: Heaton; Trippier, Shackell, Keane, Mee; Kightly, Arfield, Jones, Boyd; Barnes, Ings

Swansea XI: Fabianski, Taylor, Ki, Williams, Shelvey, Carroll, Routledge, Gomis, Cork, Naughton, Fernandez.

Team news

Manchester United make five changes from the defeat by Swansea last time out. Wing-backs Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young, central defenders Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans as well as Radamel Falcao start as Paddy McNair, Phil Jones, Luke Shaw, Marouane Fellaini and Robin Van Persie make way.

Sunderland bring in defender Patrick van Aanholt, midfielder Jordi Gomez and striker Connor Wickham for Santiago Vergini, Ricky Alvarez and Danny Graham following their goalless draw with West Brom last week.

Man Utd XI: De Gea, Valencia, Smalling, Evans, Rojo, Blind, Herrera, Young, Di Maria, Rooney, Falcao.

Sunderland XI: Pantilimon, Reveillere, van Aanholt, Brown, O'Shea, Cattermole, Larsson, Gomez, Johnson, Wickham, Defoe.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"The referee really had no alternative, Glenn Murray followed through and caught Winston Reid, and there is no question about that being second yellow card. We'll see what West Ham are made of now. That will lift them."

RED CARD

What a day Glenn Murray is having! One goal, potentially a second and now a red card. And you have to say the sending off has been coming. Murray has been walking a disciplinary tightrope with his physical approach against the Hammers' defence.

The Palace striker sees a second yellow card wafted in his direction by Mike Dean after a late challenge on Winston Reid.

Team news

We're starting to get team news from the five matches at 15:00 GMT, including some interesting news from Manchester United. We'll bring you all of the line-ups in the next few minutes.

HITS THE WOODWORK

But the Hammers almost have a tiny bit of hope to hang on to. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce said he had a wand of a left foot - and recent signing Nene proves it. The Brazilian striker bends a delicious effort towards the far corner, only for the post to come to Palace's rescue.

West Ham are hurtling towards their sixth match without a win. They need a miracle to prevent that now.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"The West Ham fans are starting to stream away back to their cars. They know the game is over now, and that's three assists for Jason Puncheon. A sweet, out swinging ball that beats the first defender, and there was Glenn Murray to stoop and guide it past Adrian, who's had no protection from his defenders today. West Ham have been wretched but Palace? They've gone from strength to strength."

GOAL

Getty Images

Well, well, well. Upton Park is stunned.

Palace are threatening to run riot now. Glenn Murray steals a yard on his marker, before using his head to guide in Jason Puncheon's outswinging free-kick into the far corner.

Some Hammers fans decide enough is enough and walk out of the ground. Shopping at Westfield with the partner looks much more appealing now...

SUBSTITUTION

Here he is! Nene receives a warm reception as Hammers boss Sam Allardyce goes on the attack. The Brazilian striker replaces holding midfielder Alex Song as the home side reshuffle.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"When you have good memories of coming to a ground where you've won before it can help you. You know what it takes to win there and you know what to expect. West Ham are struggling to get anything going now and the crowd are getting frustrated. The home side have been a poor second to Crystal Palace."

Nene strips off his Hammers training top as he prepares to make his Premier League debut. In the meantime, team-mate James Tomkins sees yellow for a rough challenge on Palace winger Wilfried Zaha. That's a sign of the home side's current frustration.

Has a player or manager been to your house?

Rob Hill: My mum threw a bucket of water at Lee Sharpe for being too noisy one night. so he came round the following day and had lunch with us.

Wayne Andrews: Barry Fry was a regular visitor at home when he was at Bedford Town - he used to sell lottery tickets and chat up my mum.

Paul Greig: My sister was friends with Phil Ferns. That's about as good as it got for footballer visits. No offence Phil.

Phil Ferns, if you're wondering, played as a left-back for Bournemouth, Charlton and Blackpool in the 1980s. We may have added to the insult by explaining that. Sorry, Phil.

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If there is going to be another goal in the next few minutes then it looks likely to be another one for Palace. Eagles skipper Mile Jedinak eyes up a free-kick on the edge of the home penalty area, whipping a fierce effort past the left-hand post. Sighs of relief from the home crowd.

West Ham have been more toothless than my dentures-wearing elderly auntie. Recent signing Nene is told to warm up on the touchline - can he provide some attacking spark?

The cameras pick up a clearly livid Sam Allardyce muttering and mumbling on the Hammers bench. West Ham need a response - quick sharp. Allardyce grumbles again as Mark Noble's free-kick from a promising position on the left sails over everybody in the Palace box and over the bar.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

Getty Images

"Scott Dann is the man! Just like for the first goal in the first half, Jason Puncheon swings a deep corner in and this time Dann was right on top of Winston Reid. Adrian could only push the ball into the back of the net, Dann's header was so powerful. And now West Ham have got a mountain to climb."

GOAL

Getty Images

Now the mood is even darker among Hammers fans. Palace double their lead through Scott Dann - and Hammers boss Sam Allardyce will be raging.

It is far too easy for the Palace centre-half, who jumps highest at the far post to power in Jason Puncheon's inswinging right-wing corner.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"I expect the game will open up more in the second half. Crystal Palace have done really well, I've been impressed with how they've handled the West Ham front two, but you do feel spaces will begin to open up."

During that stoppage we see a glimpse of Hammers vice-chairman David Sullivan, who looks extremely grumpy under his grey, furry Russian-style hat.

His mood won't be improved by some more lethargic attacking play from his team. Palace's lanky defenders easily deal with a few hopeful punts forward.

As soon as the game restarts, it grinds to a halt. For good reason though, as Winston Reid is accidently clobbered around the head. The big Kiwi goes down as the Hammers medical staff race on. Reid is made of stern stuff and quickly clambers to his feet.

KICK-OFF

Palace boss Alan Pardew has a word in the ear of Dwight Gayle as the players reappear from the tunnel. "Give it 15 minutes son and you'll be on," may or may not be what Pardew whispers.

Referee Mike Dean does a quick head count, toots his whistle and Palace restart the game.

HALF-TIME

Any signs of a half-time change? Doesn't look like it. New Hammers striker Nene is limbering up on the pitch, while the camera is training rather frequently on Palace forward Dwight Gayle. Gayle might be called upon soon before scorer Glenn Murray, who has been - shall we say - making his physical presence felt, sees red.

Has a player or manager been to your house?

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Jon in Eastleigh: My brother used to live next door to keeper Kelvin Davis when Southampton were in the Championship. Apparently my brother had some players mistakenly turning up at his door. Kelvin is a top bloke, always said hello. Card at Christmas, too.

Chris, Wirral: Brian Marwood (now a Man City executive), used to lodge at my mate's house when he was a trainee at Hull City in the early 1980s. He was always happy to have a kick-around in the ten-foots (back alleys).

Nicky: Ex Sunderland defender Stanislav Varga bought our old house from us. The day after the keys were handed over, he played such an awful game he never played again for Sunderland and was released. Perfect timing for us!

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Steve Wilson

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"Having won one of their last 10 games before Tony Pulis took over, West Bromiwch Albion have since lost one of nine. They've kept six clean sheets, having managed only three in their previous 15 games.

"For Southampton, being fifth is a remarkable achievement on a budget far smaller than that of any of the clubs around them. One win in five in league and cup have roused the doubters again, but don't forget that they lost five on the trot back in November and December and then put together another run of victories to get back into the top four.

"The top-six cartel might wish that Southampton would just fade away to mid-table, but I can't see Ronald Koeman and his side disappearing from the scrap for Europe as easily as all that."

Jonathan Pearce

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"One more win will see Stoke safe and looking ahead to an eighth season among the elite. If they hadn't lost at home to Aston Villa, Burnley and Leicester they would be safe by now. But, as it is, they should push on for their highest ever Premier League finish.

"It is nine years since Hull last triumphed at Stoke. But they have their snarl back. They were unlucky not to win at Manchester City and the home victories over Villa and QPR mean they're looking for a hat-trick of Premier League victories for the first time since October 2008, when they began life in the top flight so well.

"Dame N'Doye has made a real difference. His arrival has relit the fire in Nikica Jelavic. It's a potent partnership. Hull need at least five points from their next three games, with fixtures against Sunderland and Leicester following this game. After that their run in is fierce. They have to face six of the top seven in their last nine games."

'It's odd that Villa are in trouble'

Former England defender Danny Mills

Football Focus

"I find it really odd that Villa are in so much trouble. They've got some really good players. They've got good defenders, they've got good midfielders, such as Fabian Delph, have Christian Benteke up front, they've got Carles Gil who's just come in as well. Gabriel Agbonlahor's still in there. But it just hasn't come together. They could get sucked into it. Tim Sherwood has called for six wins out of 12 games. That'a a massive ask for a team in their situation."

Guy Mowbray

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"The size of the task ahead of new Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood was only too clear in their 2-1 defeat at home by Stoke last weekend. The next three games are crucial, with this trip to Newcastle followed by a derby at home to West Brom (and an FA Cup quarter-final against them too) and another north-east visit to Sunderland. Fail to win at least one of those, and Aston Villa - one-time European champions and a top-flight team since 1988 - are in deep trouble.

"Might this be just the game to get themselves going? Well, there's not a lot of positivity around St. James's at the moment, that's for sure, as Newcastle fans once again find themselves following a club seemingly in limbo. With a 10-point cushion above the bottom three they should at least be safe though, and winning this would surely end any relegation fears."

Where have all the goals gone?

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'The manager must be accountable'

Former England defender Danny Mills

Football Focus

"Louis van Gaal's got one striker injured, he's one playing in a holding midfield and one sitting on the bench in Radamel Falcao. He's got the players there but he doesn't use them. Angel Di Maria should be getting 15-odd goals a season. His form has dipped massively since the start of the season. The manager has to be accountable to some degree."

Simon Brotherton

Match of the Day commentator

"With matches still to come against everyone in the top seven, apart from Southampton, United's fate is very much in their own hands - but victories in those key games will count for little if too many points are dropped in matches like this one. Despite criticism of the Red Devils' style and pace of play, defeat at Swansea last time out was only their second in 20 league and cup games. Their home record this season is bettered only by Chelsea.

"Sunderland won this fixture 1-0 last season but have claimed just one victory from nine league games since Christmas. They travel to Old Trafford just two places and three points above the relegation zone. Turning draws into wins has been a constant headache and they've missed opportunities to put more daylight between themselves and the bottom three in recent weeks by becoming the first side to drop home points against QPR and then being held to a draw by West Brom."

"Burnley full of scrappers"

Former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson

Football Focus

"Burnley are full of scrappers. They lack a little bit of quality at times but there is nothing wrong with the way they play. They have been very difficult to beat, but the problem they have had has come when they've been in front. They've not known how to protect their leads to hold on and get the three points."

Alistair Mann

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"In the space of two months, Burnley will have faced eight of the current top nine sides in the Premier League. They have made a highly encouraging start to that schedule, with excellent displays at Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge.

"In an interview at Chelsea last weekend, manager Sean Dyche appeared to sum up their current approach to facing the game's elite by describing it as a list of "fantastic" challenges, preferring to embrace them rather than fear them. As things stand, Swansea represent the lowest-ranked opponents the Clarets will face until late-April, with Liverpool, Manchester City, Southampton, Spurs and Arsenal to follow.

"Despite the Swans' wonderful victory over Manchester United last Saturday, their overall inconsistencies mean they could still be susceptible at Turf Moor. Their unpredictability is best illustrated by the fact that in their last 21 league games they've won seven, drawn seven and lost seven!"

While Hammers boss Sam Allardyce tears into his players at the break, let's have a glance ahead to the 15:00 GMT kick-offs...

Get involved

Ben Wilkinson: RE: World Cup 2022, a light bulb just flashed above my head. What about the January transfer window, would that still go ahead?

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'England are normally on their knees'

Former Republic of Ireland international Mark Lawrenson

Football Focus

"Normally, when an England team go to a World Cup, they're on their knees because of the demands of the Premier League and all the other cup matches. They'll be relatively fresh. I really don't see what the problem is.

"There is absolutely a problem with the human rights issue. There's no doubt about that whatsoever. It's Fifa, and we know what happens with Fifa."

Get involved

We've not forgotten your best player stories, by the way. BBC Radio 5 live's Danny Baker Show has been asking this question today:

Has a footballer or manager ever turned up at your house?

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Davis Getusi: Victor Wanyama turned up in my house in Nairobi to ask if my satellite TV feed was on. It was, his had lost signal next door.

Kevin Collinson: The late, great former Everton and England goalkeeper Gordon West turned up at our house after a night out with a neighbour.

James Attenborough: Tomasz Kuszczak rode at my dad's horse riding school - coming into the house to pay.

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HALF-TIME

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"Adrian has had to make to important saves in the West Ham goal and Palace have looked strong and very competitive. Yannick Bolasie in particular has been really effective. The game plan from Alan Pardew has worked really well. They look a tough nut to crack at the back too."

HALF-TIME

Hammers skipper Mark Noble shakes his head and looks up to the grey east London sky as the teams trudge off for a breather. Oh how different this match could have been if Noble's free-kick (see 14 mins) was a couple of inches lower.

But, in truth, West Ham have been poor as Palace just about deserve their lead.

INJURY TIME

The fourth official raises his board to show one minute of stoppage time. West Ham huff and puff, but the Palace defence remains sturdy as the clock ticks down to the break.

A hushed sense of shock is hanging over the Boleyn Ground now. West Ham try to respond, but are lacking any sort of attacking conviction.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

Getty Images

"Aaron Cresswell took a really wild swing at Glenn Murray's header, which bounced right in front of him, almost like a 'yorker' delivery in cricket. Crystal Palace have been packing the box at corners and now it has paid off. A bizarre goal through. Nobody could quite believe the ball ended up where it did."

GOAL

Getty Images

Indeed Palace do take the lead! And it is Glenn Murray who nets. Well, sort of. The Eagles striker heads goalwards inside a packed Hammers penalty area and the ball somehow squirms into the home goal.

Hammers defender Aaron Cresswell swipes at the ball as he attempts to clear just in front of the goal-line, but only succeeds in slicing it past Adrian.

One for the dubious goals panel...

If anyone looks like scoring it is Glenn Murray. The Eagles striker sees a low shot saved by Hammers stopper Adrian at his near post. Good spell from Palace...

Get involved

Neil McL: A winter World Cup isn't going to benefit England. Having it mid Champions League/Premier League will exacerbate the club vs country dispute.

David M Gullever: 'Players will be fresher' - damn right Danny.

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I'd love to tell you that there has been plenty of drama and goalmouth action so far. But I'd be a liar. Only one shot on target so far, before West Ham are caught napping again.

Palace centre-back Damien Delaney hooks goalwards before Glenn Murray goes to ground at the far post under a Hammers challenge. Referee Mike Dean shakes his head in disgust. Never a penalty.

However, Jordon Mutch could be followed down the tunnel by Glenn Murray if the Eagles striker carries on. And that would be because he has been sent off. Murray, booked earlier for a late lunge, feels the wrath of referee Mike Dean after another cumbersome challenge. Last warning.

SUBSTITUTION

Early bath for Palace midfielder Jordon Mutch. Don't worry Palace fans - he hasn't been shown a red card. No, he grimaces as he limps off rubbing his thigh. On trots Scotland international James McArthur in his place.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"The game is starting to open up a little bit more now, with Adrian making a good save to keep out Glenn Murray, but it's been flat from both sides. West Ham like to play fast and attacking football but there has been none of that really."

CLOSE!

This is more like it. Palace break quickly, with Glenn Murray aiming to wriggle clear in the channel again. The Eagles striker unleashes a low angled shot which is beaten away by Hammers keeper Adrian. Palace's best chance so far.

Hammers midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate is unhappy with referee Mike Dean after tumbling to the turf on the edge of the Palace box. The Senegal midfielder tangled with Palace skipper Mile Jedinak, but gets nothing for his trouble. Apart from a forehead full of white paint from the pitch markings...

West Ham force a couple of corners in quick succession, but both are easily swatted away by the Palace defence. Hammers midfielder Stewart Downing tries to inject some urgency into the home team's play - then ruins his good work with an overhit throughball. Cue groans from the home crowd...

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"Alan Pardew will be the happier of the managers. Yes West Ham have had the best chance from Mark Noble's free-kick but there's no rhythm from the home side. They haven't got their front men going and the full-backs aren't getting up there. The game has become a bit scrappy, but it's Palace's system that's winning so far."

Getty Images

Half chance for Palace. And it is that man Glenn Murray who is again in the thick of the action. West Ham cheaply give away possession as Palace break into the home half. Jason Puncheon picks out the run of Murray, who struggles to keep his balance before slashing into the side-netting.

YELLOW CARD

Palace striker Glenn Murray tries his best to liven up things with a late tackle that sees referee Mike Dean reach into his pocket for the first time. Yellow card for Murray.

Not one for the neutral this game. Not a game for anyone in fact. All pretty dull as both sides scrap for supremacy in the middle of the park.

'Players will be fresher'

Former England defender Danny Mills

Football Focus

"I think people should get on with it, especially in this country. It's the ideal opportunity to have a winter break. Yes, the winter break would be slightly earlier, but sometimes you've got to embrace change. This is the World Cup. Major League Soccer, I know it's not as big a league, but they manage to have a two or three-week break when the World Cup is on. You've got the Africa Cup of Nations that goes on during the English season.

"England is the only country to be hugely affected by this. Every other country will just shift their winter break forward a month. Players will be fresher. Eden Hazard was awful at the last World Cup, because he was burnt out. All those European players will be fresh. We'll get much better games and a much better spectacle. It's going to happen. Get on with and accept it."

Big Sam Allardyce, wrapped up in an overcoat and smart woollen scarf, chomps furiously on his chewing gum as he assesses the opening 15 minutes. Think he is happy - but then it's hard to tell with Allardyce.

Opposite number Alan Pardew looks less happy when another training ground set-piece fails. Jason Puncheon overhits a deep free-kick and the ball floats out for a goal-kick to the jeers of the home fans.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"How fitting it would have been if Mark Noble, after signing a new contract, had opened the scoring. His free-kick was always bar-height though and it never seemed to dip. Crystal Palace can breathe a huge sigh of relief, that was the only dangerous moment of the game so far."

HITS THE WOODWORK

Palace keeper Julian Speroni is beaten again - but this time the away side are saved by the woodwork! Hammers captain Mark Noble comes close to celebrating his new contract with a goal, only to see his curling free-kick from the edge of the box bash the top of the crossbar. Palace survive.

Awful play from Palace! And Jason Puncheon in particular. The Eagles winger sloppily gifts possession to West Ham inside his own half as the home side sense an opportunity. Left-back Aaron Cresswell is the man in possession, slicing his attempted cross narrowly over Julian Speroni's crossbar. He didn't mean it - but it almost worked out well.

'Defoe will get Sunderland safe'

Former England defender Danny Mills

Football Focus

"I think everybody from 14th place down is in a little bit of trouble. I think there are three worse teams down there than Sunderland, though. That will be their salvation. Jermain Defoe gives them a focal point, and I think will probably get enough goals between now and the end of the season just to keep them safe."

How many more wins do 13th-placed Palace need to be safe? Five - taking them past the magical 40 mark - should do the trick I reckon. The Eagles are going about their business tidily in the opening stages here.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"Crystal Palace have great pace going forward through Yannick Bolasie, Wilfried Zaha and Jason Puncheon. West Ham have been backing off because they don't want to be caught out early on. Mile Jedinak is the one Palace will really welcome back though. I remember seeing him playing in Australia when I was out there as a manager, and everybody saw the potential he had."

Former England skipper Terry Butcher said he was certain it would be "an end-to-end game" (see 4 mins) - and it has certainly started that way.

Eagles left-back Martin Kelly storms forwards on the attack, forcing another away corner which Scott Dann heads on to the roof of the Hammers goal.

Get involved

BBC Radio 5 live's Danny Baker show has been asking this question today:

Has a footballer or manager ever turned up at your house?

And it's reminded us of a bizarre tale from January 2013. Liverpool fan Paul Feeney was sitting at his home in the city, having his tea, when the door bell rang.

It was Marouane Fellaini, then with Everton. His car had suffered a punctured tyre en route to the airport, and he needed help. Feeney organised transport for Fellaini and allowed the midfielder to keep his car on the family's driveway while he was abroad.

"He's a nice, well-mannered lad; his Mother must be proud," Fenney wrote when recounting the experience on his blog.

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Pards strikes me as a dandelion and burdock kind of guy. Either way, Palace are a bit flat as the Hammers produce a bit of fizz in an attacking sense. Mark Noble's inswinging free-kick from close to the left corner flag almost catches out the away defence, but Glenn Murray is back there to head clear over his own bar.

Former England captain Terry Butcher

BBC Radio 5 live at Upton Park

"The two managers had a fairly long chat before kick-off and I'm sure Big Sam was just saying to Alan Pardew: 'Do you want a lemonade or an orange juice after the game?'

"Whenever a new manager comes in he wants a reaction from his players, and Alan Pardew has certainly had that. Palace will counter attack West Ham and try to pick holes in their back four. It'll certainly be an end-to-end game."

Palace make the early running, forcing a corner with barely 90 seconds on the clock. A pre-planned set-piece is pulled back to the edge of Hammers box, where Jordon Mutch is lurking unmarked. But his header is weak and is booted clear by home defender James Tomkins.

KICK-OFF

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"Hi Alan, how are ya?!" inquires Sam Allardyce as he greets opposite number Pardew with a monster grin. The pair share a joke about something (maybe about their 'popularity' in Newcastle) and then take their places in the dugout.

A stream of bubbles floats across the Boleyn Ground, referee Mike Dean blows his whistle and that means it is game on.

LINE-UPS

West Ham: Adrian, Jenkinson, Reid, Tomkins, Cresswell, Song, Kouyate, Noble, Downing, Valencia, Sakho. Subs: Nene, Nolan, Jarvis, O'Brien, Collins, Demel, Jaaskelainen.

Crystal Palace: Speroni, Ward, Dann, Delaney, Kelly, Mutch, Jedinak, Puncheon, Zaha, Murray, Bolasie. Subs: Hangeland, Hennessey, Gayle, McArthur, Ameobi, Ledley, Souare.

Referee: Mike Dean (Wirral)

Steve Bower

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"Alan Pardew is nearing the end of his second month in charge of Crystal Palace and has set about a mini-evolution. His Eagles side already have a new look to them and were unlucky in defeat by Arsenal last weekend.

"One element of Palace's play that Pardew will not want to change is their ability to hit teams on the break, especially in this type of fixture. The pace of Yannick Bolasie is key, while the combative skills of fit-again captain Mile Jedinak are the team's very foundations.

"For West Ham this is the second of four successive London derbies and this run of fixtures could help refocus the club and its supporters' minds and kill off talk of their season fading away. West Ham were fifth when they beat Pardew's Newcastle at the end of November; another win over their former manager could just re-ignite their season."

There seems to be a healthy number of Palace fans in the Trevor Brooking Stand behind the goal, but we will soon see how many pockets of claret seats we can see peeking out.

The home fans are in full voice as both sets of players line up in the tunnel. West Ham skipper Mark Noble trying to calm down the excitable home mascots, while opposite skipper Mile Jedinak is a picture of concentration. Almost show-time.

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It will be interesting to see how many Palace fans cross the Thames and turn up at the Boleyn Ground today.

That's because Eagles boss Alan Pardew wrote an open letter to supporters earlier this week, urging them to "leave the sofa for this one" when tickets remained unsold.

Away fans are being asked to fork out £44 for adults and £25 for concessions.

"I wish they were cheaper and I was asking the fans, if they can possibly afford it, to try to come along because it's a big afternoon for us," said Pardew.

PA

A poignant moment as the two teams warm up at the Boleyn Ground. Both sets of players are wearing T-shirts promoting the launch of a charity set up in the name of Hammers youngster Dylan Tombides, who died from cancer in April 2014.

The DT38 Foundation, set up by the Australian's family to raise awareness of testicular cancer, is being launched at today's match.

Lawro's prediction

BBC

"Crystal Palace gave it a good go against Arsenal last week, especially late on.

"They still lost but it was the sort of performance that shows how much they have improved since Alan Pardew took charge at the start of the year.

"West Ham played well in their 2-2 draw at Tottenham but the problem was they did not win a game that they really should have done.

"Pardew would love to deny his former club three points but I don't see West Ham slipping up this time."

Each week Lawro pits his wits against a different guest. His opponent this weekend? England rugby union star George Ford.

Fifteen-minute warning

What can you do in 15 minutes? Go out for a quick 2k dash around the block? Nip over to the shop to stock up on Saturday football supplies of pop, crisps and chocolate? Or sit back on the sofa and not move a muscle?

Whatever your preference, this is your 15-minute warning to do whatever you need to before the first Premier League match of the day kicks off.

Or maybe you fancy a pre-match flutter? Home win, away win or draw? Maybe Lawro's prediction will sway your mind...

Warnock on successor Pardew

Reuters

Neil Warnock was on BBC Radio 5 live's weekend preview show on Friday, discussing his former club Crystal Palace and his successor at Selhurst Park, Alan Pardew:

"The chairman and Alan have known each other a long time and it just fitted.

"Pardew wanted to come away from Newcastle. You can't keep getting slaughtered like he was there and enjoy it, whereas now they love him and they have got some good results.

"I am sure Alan will be looking at everything around the club but they have got some decent players."

Get involved

BBC Radio 5 live's Danny Baker show has been asking this question today:

Has a footballer or manager ever turned up at your house?

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Robbo: John Rudge (the former Port Vale manager) and his wife attended my 40th birthday at a family BBQ at our home in Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent, and stayed for more than two hours.

Nuba: Jermain Defoe once knocked on my hotel room door mistakenly thinking it was his team-mate's room.

Charlie: Not quite my house, but when Charlton Athletic were first starting out, they used my great nan's living room as a changing room.

Great story, Charlie - and it raises all sorts of questions. What if your great nan wanted to pop out on a Saturday afternoon? Did she have to leave a key under the pot by the door?

However, after a recent barren run, the home side badly need three points today.

Talk of Europe among Hammers fans has drifted back to summer holidays rather than football trips next season after just one win in nine matches.

But a much-needed victory today will consolidate eighth place for Sam Allardyce's men and keep the heat on the Champions League-chasing sides above them.

No place like home...

PA

All sorts of carnage has been going on in the East End recently. Bobby Beale was revealed as his sister Lucy's killer, Mick Carter has battered his half-brother senseless, and Dot Cotton killed her son Nick. Allegedly.

But, back in the real world, Eastenders have not had to suffer any doom and gloom at the Boleyn Ground. The Hammers have lost just one of their past 11 matches in their Upton Park manor.

Has a footballer turned up at your house?

BBC Radio 5 live's Danny Baker show has been asking this question today:

Has a footballer or manager ever turned up at your house?

Richard Garner: John Salako turned up at our house (ahead of joining Cov City) which was for sale. He ended up going on a date with my sister!

Craig Rowand: Not a footballer, but Wolves CEO Jez Moxey used to deliver lottery tickets to my home while he was still a basketball player.

Chris Nash: Lou Macari turned up at our house to see my Dad, he had the FA Cup in his car boot too. Nobody at school believed me, sadly.

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook page or BBC Sport Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

Hammers chase Palace double

BBC

Not since the days of Bobby Moore, Trevor Brooking and Frank Lampard (senior, of course) have West Ham completed a league double over their south London rivals.

At the end of that 1972-73 season, West Ham ended up finishing sixth in the top flight as Palace were relegated. Omen?

Pre-match manager chat

Eagles boss Alan Pardew talking to Sky Sports: "The team did so well against Arsenal but I felt the changes were necessary. The captain Jedinak has been knocking on the door and his leadership, experience and guidance is vital.

"Glenn Murray coming in? When you have two wide players who can penetrate like we have, you need an experienced finisher in there. It was a tough choice between him and Dwight Gayle, but Murray's experience just edged it for me today.

"The agenda for West Ham is to get back to winning ways. It is the same for us. We are both chasing the win. I don't think either of us will settle for a draw."

Palace team news

Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew makes four changes to the team that lost 2-1 at home to Arsenal last weekend.

Captain Mile Jedinak returns to the starting line-up for the first time since his successful stint at the Asian Cup with Australia.

Full-back Martin Kelly, striker Glenn Murray and winger Yannick Bolasie are also included as Palace looked to set new club Premier League record of five away games unbeaten.

West Ham team news

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce names an unchanged starting line-up from the side that conceded two late goals to draw 2-2 at Tottenham last week.

Brazilian striker Nene is on the bench and waves to the sparse crowd already inside the Boleyn Ground when his name is read out by the stadium announcer. The 33-year-old has joined the Hammers on a free transfer from Qatari club Al Gharafa.

The Hammers have not won in four league games and recorded just one victory in their last nine.

What a nice bloke that Jussi Jaaskelainen appears to be. But he won't be buying white Finnish sausage or expensive beer for strangers in the next couple of hours - he will be sat on the West Ham bench.

The lanky Finn is out on the Upton Park pitch, smashing a few vicious shots at Hammers number one Adrian. Both sets of players are limbering up - kick off is little over half an hour away.

Has a footballer turned up at your house?

Getty Images

We've been teaming up with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live this morning to ask the question:

Has a footballer or manager ever turned up at your house?

Janet Marland: Jussi Jaaskelainen and his partner Tess turned up at my brother's house on Christmas Day. Jussi was new to the country and only about 20 years old. He and Tess were staying in a local hotel, so my brother - who works for Bolton Wanderers - invited them round for lunch. They brought us some white Finnish sausage to add to lunch. Jussi, my nephew Ally and I sat in the lounge watching a 'Greatest Goals' video! Jussi has ENORMOUS hands!

Matt, Leighton Buzzard: Being half-Finnish I was once on a flight back to London from Helsinki. I sat on an aisle seat and looked over to see then Bolton goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen sitting in the aisle seat on the row next to me. We went on to chat for most of the flight and he even bought me a beer from the very expensive Finnair shopping cart.

Jussi Jaaskelainen and Frank Stapleton (see 11:58) are both coming out really well from all this.

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook page or BBC Sport Google+ area

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

Coming up on TV

Football Focus

BBC Sport

And that also leads us nicely into a plug for Football Focus.

As always, Focus is the place to go on Saturday lunchtime for a comprehensive preview of the weekend's action. And it starts in four minutes (roughly) on BBC One, where host Dan Walker will be joined by Mark Lawrenson and Danny Mills.

You can watch reaction as all the goals go in around the grounds with Final Score, live on the Red Button from 14:30 and on BBC Two from 16:30, except for viewers in Scotland who can watch Sportscene from the same time.

And of course later there'll be Match of the Day - today it's on at 22:30 on BBC One, to be followed by The Football League Show, which gets under way at 23:55 on the same channel.

Saturday's Premier League action

West Ham v Crystal Palace (12:45 GMT)

Burnley v Swansea (15:00)

Man Utd v Sunderland (15:00)

Newcastle v Aston Villa (15:00)

Stoke v Hull (15:00)

West Brom v Southampton (15:00)

Afternoon y'all!

Many thanks Mandeep, I'm here to talk you through all the fun over the next seven hours or so. Here's what's coming up...

Right then, that is all from me and if there's one person I would want to see me through today's football action, it's Jonathan Jurejko. Funnily enough, he's taking over. Enjoy.

Has a footballer turned up at your house?

Getty Images

As usual, we've been teaming up with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live this morning, and today we're asking you to tell us about a time a footballer or manager turned up at your house and why were they there?

Kieran Bailey: Not a footballer, but Dejan Lovren's penalty did...

Tracey Barratt: Frank Stapleton rang me up on Christmas Day (during his Manchester United days) to wish me a Happy Christmas as I worked at the hotel the United team were staying in before a trip to Anfield. My colleague told him what a massive United fan I was! I was only about 20 at the time and was absolutely thrilled.

Jon Mansfield: I was picking conkers when Frank Stapleton drove past and asked if I wanted to collect the ones in his back garden. I was a massive United fan and incredibly chuffed!

Frank Stapleton eh? Sounds like a good egg.

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook page or BBC Sport Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

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'We're in a dogfight'

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Former Manchester United team-mates Steve Bruce and Mark Hughes will face each other when their respective Hull City and Stoke City sides face each other at the Britannia Stadium.

Hull might have won back-to-back matches but that hasn't done much to ease manager Bruce's worries.

"We're in a horrible dogfight and there's eight or nine teams in with us who are all feeling it," said Bruce, whose side are 15th, four points above the relegation zone.

"Two weeks ago we were in the bottom three and now we're four points clear, but we've got to maintain it.

"We're not out of the woods yet. If you can put another couple of results together at this particular stage of the season, it will really help."

Breaking team news

West Ham are unchanged from the team that drew 2-2 against Tottenham but Brazilian striker Nene is on the bench.

Hammers XI: Adrian, Jenkinson, Reid, Tomkins, Cresswell, Song, Noble, Kouyate, Downing, Sakho, Valencia.

Crystal Palace make four changes from the team that lost to Arsenal last time out. Midfielder Mile Jedinak is one of them as he returns to the side for the first time since 28 December having been on Asian Cup duty.

Palace XI: Speroni, Ward, Delaney, Dann, Kelly, Jedinak, Mutch, Bolasie, Puncheon, Zaha, Murray.

Get involved

We've been teaming up with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live this morning to ask the question:

Has a footballer or manager ever turned up at your house?

Getty Images

David Duffy: Had a parcel delivered by Dean Emerson (ex-Coventry City, pictured above) when he worked for 'White Arrow'.

Derek Dohren: Steve Coppell came to ours once. My dad, a Liverpool fan, popped his head in and said 'Oh, I thought you said Steve Heighway'.

Drake: Craig Eastmond, formerly of Arsenal, came to my house to get his phone unlocked. Known him since. Top bloke!

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook page or BBC Sport Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

Points make prizes for Pulis

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"It's very important you focus on every game, it's not about a points tally at the moment," says .

"We have to get as many points as we can.

"We have 12 games to go and there are eight or nine clubs fighting to stay in the Premier League. I hope to God we stay up but we're still in a dogfight.

"I won't be saying anything until we have achieved what would be a great success for us."

Pulis targets first win over Southampton

West Brom have eased their relegation worries by losing just one of nine league and cup matches under Tony Pulis to move five points clear of the drop zone.

But Pulis has never beaten Southampton in three attempts so can he turn that record around?

Has a footballer turned up at your house?

Getty Images

As usual, we've been teaming up with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live this morning and, today we're asking you to tell us about a time a footballer or manager turned up at your house and why were they there?

Syd, London: Now living in Deptford but used to live in Bolton and was a season-ticket holder in 1977-78. When I was about 15 (now 51) I got home from school one afternoon and my mum said casually: "You just missed Frank Worthington and Sam Allardyce, they popped in earlier." I could have cried! My mum worked in social services with a woman who was Frank's latest belle and he and Big Sam turned up to collect her after training. Never did get to meet them.

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook page or BBC Sport Google+ area

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

Your best motivational messages

PA

We can't let the 10-year anniversary of Delia's brilliant half-time speech pass unnoticed. We just can't do it.

So to mark it and to go along with our 'has a footballer turned up at your house?' chat, we want your stories of great motivational messages.

Dave Bradford: "Show me a good loser and I'll show you a loser." Works for me!

Gareth Evans: My dad said he'd give me £5 if I scored, so I scored eight!

Steve Jon Porter: After told wages to drop, boss does inspirational briefing to lighten mood telling staff: "I got highest candy crush score yesterday."

Get in touch using #bbcfootball on Twitter, drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to add your name and location.

Koeman aims for 'big prize'

Daily Mirror

Daily Mirror back page

The Daily Mirror's back page focuses on Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho looking ahead to the Capital One Cup final against Tottenham on Sunday as well as Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal bemoaning the lack of a '20-goal striker'.

The newspaper also has Southampton manager Ronald Koeman saying getting the south coast club into Europe would be a big prize.

'We're not effective enough to score'

AP

Southampton lost to Liverpool at home last Sunday and have scored just one goal in the last four league games.

"We will play a lot for our chances for a high position in the table in the next two games. We have to realise that," says the club's manager Ronald Koeman.

"We have to be prepared for that. I think we're doing well. If you go back to the game against Liverpool, we played well.

"We deserved much more than we got. Now it's about being more effective.

"That's maybe the question at the moment. We're not effective enough to score and to win games. But total feel of the team I am happy."

Saints aim to bounce back

Southampton have won only one of their last four league matches as they have dropped out of the top four.

They will be aiming to get back on track and maintain their challenge to get back into a Champions League spot with a win at West Brom today. Victory would see them become the first side to win five successive away games in the Premier League this season.

Jackman's a Canaries fan

Ten years on from her half-time speech, Delia Smith even earned a mention on the Graham Norton Show on Friday, with actor Hugh Jackman revealing he's a Norwich City fan.

Jackman was joined on the couch for some football chat by David Beckham. You can watch the programme again here (18 minutes in).

Also, get in touch about your stories of great motivational messages using #bbcfootball on Twitter, drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to add your name and location.

BBC

Has a footballer turned up at your house?

@villauntrue

As usual, we're teaming up with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live this morning and today we're asking you to tell us about a time a footballer or manager turned up at your house and why were they there?

Moza: Tony Morley with the European Cup. That's me with the body warmer.

Hang on, so that's Morley as a boy, but how long before he set up Peter Withe to win the trophy for Aston Villa, in 1982?

Stephen Berriman: Darren Anderton at our house to take my older sister on a date. As Arsenal fans we'd rather she had brought Oleg Luzhny round.

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook page or BBC Sport Google+ area

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

'To return would be magnificent'

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Jonas Gutierrez could return to the Newcastle squad this afternoon after a 16-month absence following his diagnosis with testicular cancer.

"It's totally a football decision," said Newcastle boss John Carver when asked about the player's return. "I've been asked whether he might get a swansong before the end of the season, but I have never even been thinking about a swansong. Why would it be a swansong?

"I just want to make a football decision, and that is that it's right to put him on the bench. If I need to put him on the pitch, then I will.

"First of all, to actually come back and play in the Premier League again would be magnificent. He's had a hard fight. When I first saw him, I was really concerned, but I suppose that's natural because he has come from a serious illness.

"Over the weeks, he has got fitter and stronger. Today, more than any other, I have seen the old Jonas Gutierrez."

'Everyone was angry'

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Newcastle boss John Carver is confident that a frank conversation between him and his players means the club can put last week's 5-0 thrashing at Manchester City behind them.

"I was angry with myself, I was angry with the team, the team were angry with me, they were angry with themselves - that's the right way to be," he said.

"But once we sat down and discussed it, there was a genuine conversation and I was very glad that we'd talked about it in that room and put it to bed."

Has a footballer turned up at your house?

Getty Images

As usual, we're teaming up with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live this morning and today we're asking you to tell us about a time a footballer or manager turned up at your house and why were they there?

Simon Essex, Elstead, Surrey: In April 1976 I shared a house in Holland-on-Sea with two girls who were at the local teacher training college. They came home one night telling me they had been "drinking with Peter Osgood and Mick Channon". Doubting the story, I went to bed. The next evening they had a party at our house and at 19:30 there was a knock on the door and in walked David Peach, Jim Steele, Jim McCalliog, Bobby Stokes and Peter Rodrigues! They were all lashed by half nine and left at about two in the morning to go back to Frinton Lodge Hotel. The following weekend their Southampton team beat Malcolm Allison's Crystal Palace in the FA Cup semi-final and played Manchester United in the final, winning 1-0. Being a United supporter I was behind the goal where Bobby Stokes scored five weeks later.

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook page or BBC Sport Google+ area

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

Psychologist for Villa?

Getty Images

Aston Villa have scored just 13 goals in 26 league games this season and boss Tim Sherwood is think of getting some outside help.

"If there's someone out there who I think can help the group - whether it be a coach or a psychologist, or whoever, we wouldn't turn it down," he says.

"They [the players] have to want to go out there and want to have bravery, go and get on the ball - even if they're giving it away.

"They mustn't worry about the anxiety around the place. If we're going to fail, we'll fail trying - and really expressing ourselves."

No new manager bounce?

As the table below shows, Tim Sherwood may have the highest winning percentage of the managers in charge for today's Premier League games but he Aston Villa reign got off to a defeat by Stoke last week.

The new manager bounce Villa may have hoped for didn't materialise and they remain second-from-bottom going into today's game at Newcastle.

Winning percentage

BBC

Foreign manager invasion?

Looking at today's games, one of the things that sticks out is the number of British managers in charge of the teams. The foreign manager is supposedly a must-have fashion accessory for Premier League clubs. But is that still the case?

If you look at the 12 sides in action today in the top flight, only three foreign managers will be on show, with the rest coming right here from British shores. (I know... it came as a shock to me as well!)

Seven of them are English - Sam Allardyce, Steve Bruce, John Carver, Sean Dyche, Garry Monk, Alan Pardew and Tim Sherwood.

The two others are Welshmen Mark Hughes and Tony Pulis, while two Dutchman and a Uruguayan make up the foreign bosses.

Team news

Liverpool will assess Jordan Henderson (ankle) ahead of tomorrow's home game against Manchester City. Philippe Coutinho is set to return after being rested for the trip to Besiktas. Defenders Mamadou Sakho (hip) and Glen Johnson (illness) are not expected to be ready.

Has a footballer turned up at your house?

@mckennastu

As usual, we're teaming up with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live this morning and today we're asking you to tell us about a time a footballer or manager turned up at your house and why were they there?

Stewart McKenna: Hungarian goalkeeper Adam Bogdan crashed our house party. Big Sum 41 fan. Had a back-to-back to see who's tallest.

Alan Jones: No one has turned up, but Bruce Grobbelaar phoned me though!

Darren: Rickie Lambert knocked at mine once asking if I was looking to change my broadband provider. He was about 27 then too. Mad.

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball on Twitter or drop us a line on the Match of the Day Facebook page or BBC Sport Google+ area

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to add your name and location!

Your best motivational messages

We can't let the 10-year anniversary of Delia's brilliant half-time speech pass unnoticed. We just can't do it.

So to mark it and to go along with our 'has a footballer turned up at your house?' chat, we want your stories of great motivational messages.

Peter Collins: As the coach of a team that had struggled to score, my pre-match words were simple: "Get a goal. I don't care how." We lost 4-1.

N Moore: My favourite: "Dance like EVERYONE'S watching." And in the case of football, I'll add: "And they've all paid to watch!"

Get in touch using #bbcfootball on Twitter, drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to add your name and location.

Three envelope trick

On the subject of Brendan Rodgers and our chat about motivational speeches, who can forget his three envelope trick.

Shortly after taking over the side in 2012, Rodgers - as we saw in a documentary following Liverpool - held up three envelopes during a squad meeting and told his players that they contained the names of three players who would let his team down that season.

"If we are going to achieve, to be the best we can, we need to be together. But I think there's three, maximum, who will let us down. Make sure you're not the one," he said.

Rodgers later revealed there were no names in the envelopes.

Let us know your best motivational messages using #bbcfootball or via text on 81111.

'We have to be careful Daniel doesn't break'

Reuters

Asked if Daniel Sturridge was substituted during Thursday's Europa League second-leg tie at Besiktas with Sunday in mind, Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers replies: "Daniel had given everything in the game. This is a player coming back from five months out injured. We have to be really, really careful he doesn't break. Daniel's history shows that.

"The bigger picture for us is the Premier League and the FA Cup were our priorities and that's still the case."

Rodgers on Man City game

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has been holding his weekly news conference this morning - I know, on a Saturday? That pesky Europa League messes up everyone's timetable.

Looking ahead to Sunday's lunchtime clash with Manchester City, Rodgers said: "You don't need to be a sports scientist to work out that, if you arrive back at 04:30 GMT on Friday morning and have a game early on Sunday, then physically there's going to be a cost."

Your best motivational messages

We can't let the 10-year anniversary of Delia's brilliant half-time speech pass unnoticed. We just can't do it.

So to mark it and to go along with our 'has a footballer turned up at your house?' chat, we want your stories of great motivational messages.

Maybe it's something you've been told by your David Brent-esque boss. Perhaps it's something you told your child before they went out to score a hat-trick. Or maybe it's a classic Ferguson line.

Let us know using #bbcfootball or via text on 81111.

Jim Rogash

Can Sunderland repeat trick?

Getty Images

Sunderland won at Manchester United last season as they earned a victory at Old Trafford for the first time since 1968. Can they serve up a repeat?

"I think it is going to be a totally different game - nothing compared to last year when Ryan Giggs was their caretaker and we were playing for our lives," says Sunderland boss Gus Poyet.

"Now they are in the process of changing their style of play - for a team that has been playing for 20-plus years in the same way it is going to be a difficult process.

"I think people are being a little bit harsh on Manchester United at the moment."

Has a footballer turned up at your house?

BBC

As usual, we're teaming up with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live this morning and today we're asking you to tell us about a time a footballer or manager turned up at your house and why were they there?

Charles Taylor: Had Patrick Vieira turn up at my house shortly after he started for Arsenal to take my au pair on a date.

Paul Anderson: Nick Pickering (Sunderland and one cap for England) went to my uncle's house to buy a budgie. Wrong house though.

Mark Healey: Former Hull City defender Justin Whittle is our postman, so he's often knocked on our front door.

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball on Twitter, text via 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

You can listen to Danny's show using the 'live coverage' tab at the top of the page.

KO for RVP

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One person who will not feature this afternoon is Robin van Persie. The Manchester United striker faces more than a fortnight out with an ankle problem, meaning he is also ruled out of the FA Cup quarter-final against former club Arsenal on 9 March.

"I do not think it is very heavy but ankle problems can take a long time," said manager Louis van Gaal. "It is not one or two weeks."

Van Gaal in a 'rat race'

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A win for Manchester United against Sunderland today would take Louis van Gaal's men up to fourth - but lose and they could finish the weekend in sixth.

"It is a rat race between five clubs," said the Dutchman. "Therefore you have to win your matches because the other clubs are winning theirs.

"We are not unhappy. I am pleased with the results, but not with a lot of the performances.

"If you told me at the start of the season I would be in the first four at the start of May, I would have signed for it. When I came here, that was my goal and we are still there. But, of course, it would be a big disappointment not to make it."

The blame game

The Sun's back page leads on Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal putting his side's failure to challenge for the title down to the lack of a 20-goal-a-season striker.

BBC

If only he had one of Europe's leading strikers on loan or could call on England's second-highest scorer of all time. Oh.

Gossip

Most of us love a bit of transfer tittle-tattle and BBC Sport's gossip column is a playground for the latest rumours from the football world and here are a few snippets:

Everton manager Roberto Martinez believes 21-year-old defender Luke Garbutt, who is out of contract at the end of the season, can go on to play for England. (Liverpool Echo)

Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera, 25, says he is studying videos of former Old Trafford hero Paul Scholes in an attempt to secure a regular starting place. (Telegraph)

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has spoken to captain Vincent Kompany, 28, about his uneven form but believes he will be inspired by recent criticism. (Guardian)

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers insists they remain on target for qualification for the Champions League despite the disappointment of their Europa League exit. (Times - subscription required)

Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood has moved the youth team training next to the first-team pitches so he can keep an eye on emerging players. (Birmingham Mail)

The plan

So, let me outline a brief plan for this morning's build up to today's games. (This thing isn't just thrown together you know)

Anyway, we are going to analyse the games, take a scout around the papers and round-up some of the major stories so that you are better prepared than a Jose Mourinho side.

Saturday's games

The teams mentioned below and left red-faced in midweek aren't in action today. But, can the ones that are involved spare some of the Premier League's blushes by showing that, while it looks like it might not be the best league around, it is the most exciting?

The games today aren't exactly sexy but let's hope looks can be deceptive. Kick-offs are at 15:00 GMT unless stated and here they are:

West Ham v Crystal Palace (12:45 GMT)

Burnley v Swansea

Man Utd v Sunderland

Newcastle v Aston Villa

Stoke v Hull

West Brom v Southampton

Has a footballer turned up at your house?

As usual, we're teaming up with the Danny Baker Show on BBC Radio 5 live this morning and asking for your quirky football stories.

Today: Tell us about a time a footballer or manager turned up at your house and why were they there?

Did David Beckham boot the ball over your garden fence as a teenager? Maybe Andy Carroll knocked on your door by mistake when trying to visit his mate Kevin Nolan?

Let us know your stories using #bbcfootball or on text via 81111 (UK only).

You can listen to Danny's show using the 'live coverage' tab at the top of the page.

Let's be havin' you

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What Premier League teams need for encouragement is a bit of Delia Smith.

It is 10 years ago (yes, TEN YEARS!) to the day since the Norwich owner and famous telly chef took to the microphone at half-time to try to get her side's fans behind her team in a 3-2 defeat by Manchester City at Carrow Road.

Those immortal words were: "Where are you? Where are you? Let's be havin' you. C'mon."

Battered and bruised

Premier League teams have had more hits this week than Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith put together. (Alright, maybe not that many but you know what I mean).

Top-flight champs Manchester City were made chumps by Barcelona, Arsenal were humbled by Monaco, it was more Turkish despair than delight for Liverpool and Tottenham suffered a Fiorentina nightmare.

But at least we're the richest football league in the world!! So there.

Ouch

Richard Scudamore, Greg Dyke, Manuel Pellegrini, Arsene Wenger, Brendan Rodgers, Mauricio Pochettino - your boys took one hell of a beating.

BIFF

Reuters

BANG

AP

WALLOP

AP

SMASH

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