Football transfer news & pre-season

1. Liverpool to meet £32.5m release clause for Christian Benteke
2. Valdes responds after 'refusing to play' claim
3. No Mackay punishment after 11-month investigation
4. British sides in Europa League action today
5. Get involved: Your club's sporting journey since 2006 #bbcsportsday

That's all, folks

Thanks for joining us for Thursday's Sportsday.

Same again tomorrow?

We'll be back from 08:00 BST with all the latest football news and gossip, mixed with updates from Ashes, Tour de France, The Open Championship, and the best bits from social media.

Germany to win Euro 2016?

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It might be a year away but people are already talking about who's going to win the Euros in France next summer. Despite some unconvincing performances in the qualifiers so far, BBC World Service looks at how Germany can get it right and win the competition.

Joshua to face Cornish for heavyweight title

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Unbeaten Olympic champion Anthony Joshua will face Gary Cornish for the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight title.

The 25-year-old will meet the Scotsman on 21 September at the O2 Arena in London, bidding to increase a record of 13-0, all by way of knockout.

#BBCSportsday and Match of the Day Facebook.

A NASA probe took nine years to reach Pluto. What's happened to your club in that time?

Boycey, Everton fan: All Everton have done is switched from a Scot to a Spaniard, and we're still broke. Pretty much nothing has changed.

Graham Reed, Portsmouth fan: Premier League to League Two, FA Cup winners, 29 pts deducted, eight owners, millions of pounds missing, but never more optimistic.

Jacob Birkenshaw: My beloved Charlton won the Premier League title five times, three Champions Leagues and are now a European powerhouse. Shame it's only on Football Manager.

You had us there for a minute, Jacob.

AC Milan stand firm over Roma defender

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AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani says the club will not increase their offer for Roma defender Alessio Romagnoli this summer.

The Rossoneri have made a £17.5m bid to sign the 20-year-old centre-back, who is under contract with Roma until June 2018 and has also been linked with Arsenal.

"Our offer for Romagnoli is unchangeable," Galliani said to Gazzetta dello Sport. "Romagnoli is an interesting player and if we can, we will satisfy our coach.

"Otherwise, we will look at other alternatives."

England v Australia - Ashes latest

Avert your eyes, England fans. Australia have just surpassed 300 runs on day one at Lord's.

Follow all the action by clicking here.

Gayle > Benteke?

Peterborough chairman Darragh MacAnthony has been doing a Twitter Q&A.

He's just said he rates Crystal Palace (and former Posh) striker Dwight Gayle over Liverpool target Christian Benteke.

Now there's a statement...

Darragh MacAnthony

McGugan joins Sheffield Wednesday

We have a done deal....

McGugan arrives from Watford on a permanent deal, after two successful loan spells with the Owls. 

Wasps 'will cope without Goode'

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Wasps will be able to cope without prolific fly-half Andy Goode for the forthcoming Premiership season, says back rower Guy Thompson.

Former England international Goode, 35, left in the summer to join London Irish, with Jimmy Gopperth arriving from Leinster to help fill the gap.

"Players move on - Andy had great Premiership experience," Thompson, 28, told BBC Coventry and Warwickshire.

"Jimmy's also got great experience and won Golden Boot after Golden Boot."

England v Australia - Ashes latest

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It's been a long ol' day for England at Lord's.

Chris Rogers and Steven Smith are loving life at the crease and don't seem to want to leave. They've both clocked up centuries and Australia are cruising on 289-1.

Follow the action on BBC Sport by clicking here.

De Sousa heads championship

Cornelius Lysaght

BBC horse racing correspondent

A Leicester treble for jockey Silvestre de Sousa has sent the Brazilian to the head of the flat riders' championship, ahead of the injured Ryan Moore.

De Sousa, who has now recorded 52 wins during the new-look championship season (May to October) was made odds-on to land the title after Moore hurt his neck in a freak starting-stalls accident last week.

Click here for a full list of racing results.

Women's FA Cup final set to break record

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Wembley's first staging of the Women's FA Cup final this year looks set to be watched by a record crowd for the competition.

With interest in women's football on a high after the England's World Cup exploits, so far 24,000 tickets have been sold for the 1 August match between Chelsea and Notts County.

I will go on my own terms - Khan

Pakistan veteran Younis Khan has said he will not retire until he has guided his team to Test series victories in England and Australia.

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The 37-year-old played his hundredth Test on the tour of Sri Lanka earlier this month.

"I will go on my own terms and want to see and contribute to Pakistan wins in Australia and England," he said.

"Pakistan will become a great team if we win in England and Australia, and since I have not scored a hundred in Australia I want to achieve that too before retiring."

History isn't on his side, though. Pakistan's last series win in England came in 1996 while they have never won a series on Australian soil.

On this day - 2007

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Sunderland announced the signing of Kieran Richardson from Manchester United for an undisclosed fee.

The Black Cats paid in the region of £5.5m for the left-winger. He made 134 league appearances before heading off to Fulham in 2012.

Scotland ease to win over Canada

Scotland cruised to a comfortable eight-wicket victory over Canada in their World Twenty20 qualifier Group B match.

The hosts were set 136 to win and Scotland reached 139/2 with 32 balls to spare.

Kyle Coetzer's unbeaten 51 and a 12-ball 33 from George Munsey ensured the convincing win.

#BBCSportsday or Match of the Day Facebook

A NASA probe took nine years to reach Pluto. What's happened to your club in that time?

Get involved on #bbcsportsday and on Match of the Day's Facebook page.

Ken Chiverton, Bournemouth fan: Avoided going into the Conference with a -17 point start. Got promoted into first division. Manager went to Burnley, but came back to guide us to the Championship. Champions of Championship last season. It's a story you couldn't make up. Cherries and proud.

Ry Lawson, Cardiff City fan: Lost an FA Cup final, League Cup final, play-off final. Won the Championship, got rebranded to red and then back to blue, got relegated from the Premier League. So not much.

Alex Davies, Swansea fan: Barely escaped from relegation from League Two just before this time. Now, finishing eighth in the Premier League.

Sterling signing massive - Kompany

PA

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has been having his say on the club's £49m signing of Raheem Sterling and he reckons the forward's arrival will move the Etihad outfit closer to winning trophies.

"It's massive for us," he told City's webiste. "We have great quality in the team but you can't compete nowadays if you don't improve every year.

"Other teams improve, we need to improve and getting him puts us one step closer to being this team which can win trophies again - it's very important for us."

#BBCSportsday or Match of the Day Facebook

Nine years of hurt? Nine years of joy? What's happened to your club since 2006?

John Brunlees, Rangers fan: From the UEFA Cup final to Scottish Division Three, back to the Championship and a new dawn for next season.

Steve Adams, Fulham fan: From final day relegation survival to Europa League final, then relegated... Just your average 9 years!

Tottenham fan James Coulter has gone one step further and offered us a diagram...

James Coulter

Rodriguez wins 12th stage

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Joaquim Rodriguez of Spain takes stage 12 of the Tour de France, with Denmark's Jakob Fuglsang second, and Frenchman Romain Bardet in third.

Britain's Chris Froome fends off numerous late attacks to hold onto the yellow jersey.

For the latest reaction, click here.

Scottish Premiership: Who's in and who's out?

With Celtic, Aberdeen, Inverness Caledonian Thistle and St Johnstone all involved in European competition qualifying, several Scottish Premiership managers have a particularly short close season during which to reshape their squads. 

Champions Celtic have splashed the most cash in this summer's transfer window by signing Manchester City's central defender Dedryck Boyata for £1.5m. But Dundee have had the most significant turnover of playing staff so far with manager Paul Harley signing eight new players with nine leaving the club. Check out the full list of the Scottish ins and outs this summer.  

Schneiderlin on his move to United

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France midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin has spoken about his move to Manchester United from Southampton, Bastian Schweinsteiger, competition for places and why the club deserves to win trophies. 

 The 25-year-old has joined United for a fee in the region of £25m after seven years with the Saints where he made more than 250 appearances. 

Listen to what he had to say about leaving Southampton and fitting in at his new club. 

Flying Frenchman

Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has been showing off his diving skills on the club's pre-season tour...

Unhappy Routledge

It looks like Wayne Routledge wasn't too amused at the size of his pool as Swansea's players took to the water after a training session...

Doe leaves Daggers to become latest Wood signing

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National League newcomers Boreham Wood have signed former Dagenham & Redbridge defender Scott Doe.

The 26-year-old rejected a new deal with League Two side Dagenham, and ends a six-year association with the club for who he made 265 appearances.

Doe's signing comes a day after striker Charlie MacDonald and midfielders Luke Howell and Billy Clifford joined Wood.

Open update

Reuters

Tiger Woods is back in the clubhouse and his opening round of The Open has not been pretty.

He made just one birdie and five bogeys to finish on four over. His worst round on the Old Course at The Open as a pro.

It's a different story for Jordan Spieth, 21, as the American posted a five under round of 67. Follow the live action from St Andrews here.

Liverpool on course for Benteke deal

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Further to the post at 14:36 BST, courtesy of the Liverpool Echo, BBC Sport can now confirm Liverpool are set to meet Christian Benteke's release clause of £32.5m.

The potential move for the 24-year-old Aston Villa forward comes after Raheem Sterling's £49m exit from Anfield to Manchester City.

Inside the mind of Mick McCarthy

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Ever wondered who was the toughest player Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy ever faced? Who his hero is? Or what the future holds for the Tractor Boys?

The former Republic of Ireland international has sat down with BBC Radio Suffolk's Brenner Woolley and revealed all.

#BBCSportsday and Match of the Day Facebook

It's taken nine years for a probe to land on Pluto, so we want to know about your club's sporting journey in that period.

Get involved on #bbcsportsday and Match of the Day's Facebook page. Don't forget to tell us which club you support.

Jack Simmons, Southampton fan: Everything has happened. Two relegations, two promotions, JPT winners, 100s of transfers and now Europa League.

Steve Creek, Leeds fan: Nine years ago Leeds just missed out on promotion back to the Premier League. We've never been any closer in the nine years since.

Nick Seddon, Wigan fan: Eight Premier League seasons, four Wembley trips, two cup finals, one FA Cup, Europe, beaten all of top four, relegated twice. Not bad...

Tour debutant Dowsett forced out of race

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Movistar's Alex Dowsett has abandoned the Tour de Franceafter failing to recover from an elbow injury suffered on stage four of the race.

The 26-year-old from Essex crashed on the stage from Seraing to Cambrai and the wound on his elbow kept re-opening.

Before Thursday's stage 12, Dowsett was 175th out of 176 riders, more than two hours behind race leader and former Team Sky team-mate Chris Froome.

Williams out of Swedish Open

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Wimbledon champion Serena Williams has pulled out of the WTA Swedish Open because of elbow pain.

"During the morning's training session Serena injured her elbow," said a statement on the Swedish Open website.

"She was examined after training by the WTA's medical team who advised her against continuing the tournament."

Get involved #bbcsportsday

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Time for our next debate. As you may have seen, we know more about Pluto than ever before after Nasa's New Horizons probe went past it earlier this week.

The probe took nine years to get there. So that got us wondering about your team's sporting journey in that time. Promotions, relegations, titles won, administration or a wealthy new owner? Nine years is a long time - Portsmouth were in the Premier League in 2006.

But not everything has changed. This is a picture of Theo Walcott and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, pictured around the time the New Horizons probe started on its journey.

Tell us your club's sporting journey. Use the hashtag #bbcsportsday or via the Match of the Day Facebook page.

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Ashes update

It's hard toil for England's bowlers today as Australia make the most of what appears a decent batting track.

The tourists are currently 159-1 and you can follow it live here.

Notts 'living on the edge' - Newell

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Mick Newell was a batsmen for Notts between 1984 and 1992

Nottinghamshire director of cricket Mick Newell says his team are "living on the edge" in the T20 Blast as they prepare for two crucial group games.

Notts recorded a last-ball win at Lancashire on Wednesday to keep their hopes of a quarter-final spot alive.

"We had to win four in a row, we've won two of those four. We know we're living on the edge going into the last couple of games," Newell told BBC Nottingham.

Chris Read's side sit fifth in the North Group and travel to Durham on Friday before another away game at Leicestershire on 24 July.

Only the top four qualify for the quarter-finals.

Get involved #bbcsportsday

We are talking sporting bust-ups today, following an argument between Celtic players Stefan Johansen and Leigh Griffiths over who should take a penalty.

AFP

James Eaglesfield: More handbags than a confrontation, Stoke's Ricardo Fuller handed a red card after slapping team mate & captain Andy Griffin.

Nii Dani El: It has to be Assou Ekotto vs Benjamin Moukandjo at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Cameroon team.

Keith Reid: Not a Jambo but what about Graham Hogg & Craig Levein fighting in a pre-season FRIENDLY against Raith Rovers #embarrassing.

Worcestershire will learn from mistakes, says Rhodes

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Steve Rhodes says Worcestershire will learn from last season and not allow their motivation to slip as they close in on a T20 Blast quarter-final place.

A win at Derbyshire in their penultimate group game on Friday will rubber-stamp their last-eight place.

"We want to keep momentum going, we just dropped off a little bit towards the end of qualifying last year," director of cricket Rhodes told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"That didn't put us in the best of states for the quarter-final."

Liverpool on brink of Benteke deal

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Liverpool are set to meet the £32.5m release clause in order to sign Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke, according to the Liverpool Echo.

The news comes after Manchester United were linked with the 24-year-old Belgium international this morning.

Surrey strengthen promotion bid with win over Kent

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Surrey closed the gap on Division Two leaders Lancashire with a comfortable six-wicket win over Kent at The Oval.

Chasing 125 to win, the hosts resumed on 4-1, but lost Kumar Sangakkara after he was stumped off James Tredwell.

Rory Burns made 46 before he was bowled by spinner Tredwell (3-61), but wicketkeeper Ben Foakes saw Surrey to 128-4 and victory with an unbeaten 57.

Second-placed Surrey are now eight points behind Lancashire and 39 points clear of Glamorgan in third.

'Don't even think about it'

Should Younes Kaboul sign for Sunderland, someone might want to remind him of what his then agent said after the defender rejected the chance to join the Black Cats seven years ago.

At the time, his agent Rudy Raba was quoted as saying: "Younes wouldn't join Sunderland even if there was an earthquake. 

"We have more interesting options than Sunderland. Don't even think about it."

Kaboul having Sunderland medical

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Tottenham defender Younes Kaboul is having a medical at Sunderland, according to reports.

The 29-year-old Kaboul would become head coach Dick Advocaat's fourth summer signing if he completes a move.

The Black Cats have signed defenders Sebastian Coates and Adam Matthews as well as midfielder Jeremain Lens so far this summer.

Can Liverpool still attract the big names?

Liverpool have sold Luis Suarez and Raheem Sterling in the last two summers but can they also attract the stellar names in the game?

"Players are always going to want to come to Liverpool," said Reds boss Brendan Rodgers. "I've said it before and I've said it many times. I think it's such an iconic club, it's a great club.

"The challenge for us is to get back in among the top teams in this division and hopefully that continues to attract players."

EPA

'Our communication is fine'

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Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has been speaking at a news conference during his side's tour in Australia. 

The Reds boss denied he and Raheem Sterling, who has moved to Manchester city in a £49m deal, had fallen out.

"We were on text yesterday, so our communication is fine," said the Reds boss.

"He decided to move on and, for now, he's a Manchester City player and for us now it's about focusing on the players we have."

Wigan turn down Rangers bid

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Wigan have rejected a bid from Rangers for full-back James Tavernier, according to Press Association Sport. 

The Scottish club have already signed centre-back Rob Kiernan from the Latics this summer but their initial offer to buy Tavernier has been rejected. 

The 23-year-old has two years left on his current deal but only made 13 appearances for Wigan last season before going on loan to Bristol City, who were promoted from League One.

Cosgrove battles for Leicestershire

BBC Sport's Elizabeth Ammon at Cheltenham: "It's been a decent morning for Leicestershire. 

"Captain Mark Cosgrove has moved to 63 and is anchoring his side's innings admirably. 

"The cloud has lifted and the sun is breaking through so batting should get a bit easier, just as it did on Wednesday."

Forest reject West Brom's Antonio bid

West Brom's bid for midfielder Michail Antonio has been rejected by Nottingham Forest. 

It is thought the Baggies have offered £5m for the 25-year-old but the Press Association are reporting that Forest have told Albion the winger is not for sale.

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Cockbain breaks wrist in practice

Gloucestershire's newly-appointed captain Ian Cockbain faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after fracturing his wrist in practice. The 28-year-old right-handed batsman was only made skipper last week following Geraint Jones' decision to step down.

Best seat in the house?

Play is well under way at The Open at St Andrews but where will you be watching it from this year? BBC Breakfast presenter and keen golfer Naga Munchetty has found a little gem - an apartment located along the approach to the 18th green with incredible views. If you fancy buying it, it's on the market for £1m - take a look around with Naga.  

BBC

On this day - 1966

As Frank Sinatra once sang: "It was a very good year..."

Get involved #bbcsportsday and BBC Sport Facebook

We are talking about sporting bust-ups in #bbcsportsday. Here are some more of your memories.

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Niklas Lanwehr: Afcon 06 Semi-final. Egypt v Senegal Mido refuses to leave pitch and shouts at manager Shehata, Zaki came on to score seconds later.

Joseph Richardson: Gennaro Gattuso going head-to-head with Joe Jordan in the Champions League (Milan v Tottenham). Big mistake.

Britons in Worlds finals

Elizabeth Hudson

BBC Sport in Glasgow

All four Britons in action in the Thursday's morning heats have qualified for the finals at the IPC Swimming World Championships in Glasgow.

Ellie Simmonds, Andrew Mullen, Hannah Russell and Alice Tai all safely reached their respective finals while the women's freestyle relay team will also be chasing gold.

Lampard and Pirlo ready to 'compete'

New york City FC on Twitter

Frank Lampard and Andrea Pirlo have not joined New York City FC just for the money, according to the club's sporting director Claudio Reyna.

Former Juventus playmaker Pirlo's £5.17m annual salary makes him Major League Soccer's highest earner, while ex-Chelsea and Manchester City midfielder Lampard, 37, is on £3.8m.

"I asked them the question, why come to MLS now?" said Reyna.

"They looked me in the eye and said they wanted to compete."

Lunch at Lord's

It's lunch at Lord's and Australia are 104-1 on the first day of the second Ashes Test, with David Warner the only victim so far.

You can follow all the action right here on BBC Sport.

BBC

Kick It Out on Mackay and Moody

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Kick It Out, football's equality and inclusion organisation, have released a statement following the FA's decision not to take action against Malky Mackay and Iain Moody.

The pair are alleged to have sent racist, antisemitic, sexist and homophobic text messages during their time at Cardiff City.

The statement reads: "Kick It Out is of the view that The Football Association has damaged its own credibility and anti-discrimination policies by taking the decision not to charge Mackay and Moody."

The full statement can be read here.

Football transfers: A different view

Fancy a break from the serious side of the football transfer window? BBC Sport's Mike Armagon takes a comical view of the ins and out of this summer's transfer window.

He covers all the big name moves including Bastian Schweinsteiger, Raheem Sterling and Glen Johnson.

Zenit's Witsel on the move?

Saj Chowdhury

BBC Sport

Axel Witsel's Italian representative tells me the player wants move to Manchester United, Chelsea, Juventus or AC Milan. Zenit value him at 40m Euros.

Happy birthday, Bale

Penblwydd hapus, feliz cumpleanos and a happy birthday to Wales and Real Madrid midfielder Gareth Bale. The £85m man turns 26 today.

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Also celebrating their birthdays on Thursday are former South Africa cricket captain Shaun Pollock (42), ex-dual code Australia rugby international Wendell Sailor (41),and 2013 Masters winner Adam Scott (35), who is spending the day at St Andrews at The Open Championship. Alright for some.

Van Gaal wants attacking full-backs

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Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has also been talking about why he signed right-back Matteo Darmian.

"In the first place I always want a player who can defend," said Van Gaal. "When you are right full-back you have to defend and co-operate with your fellow defenders.

"You need very good orientation. He is fast. He is a reasonable header. He is good in an attacking way. Manchester United wants to attack with the full-backs."

A day off for Arsenal

Earlier today we showed Mesut Ozil enjoying the sights of Singapore. Well, Arsenal team-mate Theo Walcott has also been using the day off to explore. He writes: "Bit of sightseeing today at Marina Bay Sands."

Arsenal's Theo Walcott

The Open Championship latest

American Robert Streb is the new clubhouse leader on his Open debut, with compatriot Dustin Johnson also on six under after 10 holes.

Tiger Woods is not having as much luck. He's currently joint last on five-over-par after 10.

BBC Sport's live coverage continues here.

The Open Championship

Newcastle target Anderlecht pair

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Newcastle Chronicle: Newcastle United are reportedly on the hunt for Anderlecht pair Aleksandar Mitrovic and Chancel Mbemba.

Forward Mitrovic has 13 caps for Serbia while defender Mbemba is a DR Congo international.

Redfearn leaves Leeds United

It has now been confirmed that Leeds United academy boss Neil Redfearn has resigned, claiming the club made his position "untenable".

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Redfearn, 49, was replaced as head coach of the Championship side by Uwe Rosler in May.

He accepted the offer to return to his previous role with the club's academy but said in a statement that "the offer was not genuine" and the club "refused to let him take up the position".

Leeds are planning to issue a statement later on Thursday.

Get involved #bbcsportsday

Some more of your sporting bust-ups. Get involved in our discussion by using the hastag #bbcsportsday or by leaving a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

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Frank Fitzjohn: Remember when Marlon Samuels lost his head and threw his bat at Shane Warne in the Big Bash League?

RDG: The El Clasico Brawl which led to Jose Mourinho poking Tito Vilanova in the eye. Wild scenes that day.

Ashes update

There's been a wicket in the cricket at Lord's as England have broken Australia's opening partnership.

Spinner Moeen Ali got the breakthrough after David Warner skied a shot which Jimmy Anderson gleefully caught.

The tourists are currently 79-1 and you can follow our live text commentary here.

Bale as a striker?

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There was speculation that new Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez would switch Cristiano Ronaldo from his usual left wing position to play as a centre-forward as he made changes to the Bernabeu side.

But, according to Marca, Ronaldo is set to stay on the wing and as Benitez is instead seriously considering using Gareth Bale as a striker.

T & T draw thriller with Mexico

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Trinidad and Tobago scored moments before the final whistle to secure a dramatic 4-4 draw with Mexico in the Gold Cup.

The game was locked at 3-3 when Mexico looked like they had won the game after a Kenwyne Jones own goal only for Yohance Marshall to head in an equaliser to make it 4-4.

The draw allowed Trinidad and Tobago to finish top of their group and they will play Panama in the quarter-finals, while Mexico will take on Costa Rica.

Cuba beat Guatemala and will play hosts and defending champions United States in the last eight, with Haiti facing Jamaica in the other quarter-final.

Redfearn 'makes Leeds exit'

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Yorkshire Evening Post's chief football writer Phil Hay is reporting that Neil Redfearn has resigned as academy manager of Leeds United.

Ozil the tourist

It is fair to say that Mesut Ozil is loving being a tourist during Arsenal's Asia tour. The Gunners play Everton on Saturday in the final of the Asia Trophy in Singapore.

FA statement on Mackay and Moody

The Football Association have released a statement after their decision not to hand down disciplinary action on Malky Mackay and Iain Moody.

Cardiff City alleged the pair shared racist, sexist and homophobic texts during their time at the club in 2013-14 season.

"Having assessed the evidence, and in light of the finding that the communications were sent with a legitimate expectation of privacy, The FA will not be taking disciplinary action against Iain Moody and Malky Mackay in connection with the content of those messages," said the statement.

No FA action against Mackay and Moody

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Malky Mackay and Iain Moody will not face disciplinary action following a Football Association investigation into inappropriate text messages.

The FA spent 11 months looking into messages, which were sent when Mackay and Moody were together at Cardiff.

Both Moody and Mackay have been spoken to by the FA about the inappropriateness of terms used in the messages.

Mackay has also voluntarily undertaken equality and diversity training.

Sasic retires from football at 27

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A month since scoring the fastest hat-trick in Women's World Cup history, Germany's Celia Sasic has announced her retirement from football at the age of 27.

In a statement on her Facebook page, she said she has decided to go "a new way" and was proud of her achievements.

Sasic also won the golden boot for the tournament in Canada, with six goals and one assist.

Vergini makes Sunderland exit

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Sunderland defender Santiago Vergini has joined Spanish side Getafe on a season-long loan deal with a view to a permanent move.

The 26-year-old Argentina international, who arrived on Wearside from Estudiantes in January 2014, has headed for La Liga after learning he was surplus to requirements at the Stadium of Light.

Vergini made 51 appearances in 18 months on Wearside.

Get involved #bbcsportsday

After Celtic's players were arguing over who would take a penalty, we have been asking for memorable sporting bust-ups and also your own experiences.

Here are some of your comments:

Dan Gee: vs Bharat Sports for Great Glen CC. Guy didn't walk after middling it. He then tried to fight everyone, including me at point.

John Chelsom: My works cricket team (10 men, 1 woman) played against Windrush Ladies and two of our players had a fight after they tried to field the same ball. The ladies were not impressed and probably thought that sort of thing went on all the time in men's cricket.

Alex Sexton: Once had a team mate stamp on his own foot so he DIDN'T have to take a penalty in a shoot-out.

Watford's Juanfran back at Deportivo

Deportivo La Coruna will take right-back Juanfran back to Spain on another season-long loan from Premier League Watford.

Juanfran, 26, joined the Hornets from Spanish side Real Betis last summer for a reported 1.5m Euros, but he was immediately sent out on loan to Deportivo for the season.

He made 34 league starts to help the Galician side finish 16th in the Primera Division.

"Juanfran will arrive tonight in A Coruna and will join the team in training on Friday morning," said a statement from Deportivo.

Daggers sign ex-Fulham defender

Empics

League Two side Dagenham & Redbridge have signed Josh Passley following the defender's departure from Fulham earlier this summer.

The 20-year-old, who can play at right-back or centre-back, has agreed a one-year deal with the Daggers, with the option of a further year.

GB team named for European Championships

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The British squad for next month's modern pentathlon European Championships in Bath has been confirmed.

The 2014 World Champion Samantha Murray is included in the eight-strong team, who are looking to secure a qualifying place for Rio 2016.

She is joined in the women's team by Kate French and Francesca Summers, while the the fourth place will be filled by either Freyja Prentice or Mhairi Spence.

The men's team features Jamie Cooke, Nick Woodbridge, Joseph Choong and Tom Toolis.

County Championship

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An extraordinary third evening at The Oval saw Surrey bowl out Kent for 99 to leave them needing 125 for victory.

Surrey lost Zafar Ansari with what proved to be the final ball of the day to leave them on 4-1, but they only need another 121 to win.

Wickets also tumbled on a tricky pitch at Cheltenham where Gloucestershire where bowled out for 218 before Leicestershire reached 56-3 at stumps.

Leicestershire's hopes on the second morning will rest with captain Mark Cosgrove who is 26 not out.

How to follow the Ashes on the BBC

BBC

The second Ashes Test has just started at Lord's and we won't let you miss a beat.

Test Match Special is underway on BBC Radio Five live sports extra, Radio 4 LW, and online.

You can also listen via the BBC Sport app, and follow our live text commentary as well.

And if you're on the move, you can always sign up for news and wicket alerts on your mobile phone or tablet. Full details here.

Aren't we good to you?

Liverpool's new away kit

Liverpool have launched their new away kit in Brisbane, Australia as part of their pre-season tour. Part of the launch involved ex-Reds striker Robbie Fowler sky-diving out of a plane in the new shirt design.

'Me and my new best friend'

Manchester City midfielder Samir Nasri has posted a picture on Instagram with 'his new best friend' - a koala. 

City are set to play Melbourne City in a friendly on Australia's Gold Coast on Saturday.

Get involved #bbcsportsday

We are asking for memorable sporting bust-ups. Get involved using #bbcsportsday or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

ITV Sport

Jonathan Wilkins: David Batty and Graeme Le Saux fighting each other during a Champions League game in Moscow, when they both played for Blackburn.

Crossy: Bradford City's Stuart Mccall and Andy Myers fighting at Elland Road during a 5-0 thrashing. Doubly embarrassing.

Todd Bridgland: As far as sporting bust ups go Eyal Berkovic and John Hartson on the training ground was a big one.

Ashes update

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Australia captain Michael Clarke wins the toss and chooses to bat first in the second Test at Lord's.

The tourists bring in Mitchell Marsh and Peter Nevill for Shane Watson and Brad Haddin, while England are unchanged following their win in the opener.

Follow it live here.

Stuani set to join Middlesbrough

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Middlesbrough have agreed a fee to sign Uruguay striker Cristhian Stuani from Espanyol, the Spanish club have confirmed.

The 28-year-old is set to join Boro, managed by fellow Spaniard Aitor Karanka, on a deal worth £2.8m, with half of the fee going to the player's former club Reggina.

A statement from Espanyol read: "The Uruguay striker will join Middlesbrough once he passes a medical and signs his contract with the English club.

"The player's wish is to say goodbye to his team-mates next week in Barcelona before joining his new club."

Robinho moves to China

Reuters

Former Manchester City striker Robinho has joined Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande.

The Brazil international, 31, has signed on a free for six months and will wear the number 60 jersey.

Guangzhou Evergrande are managed by ex-Brazil and Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Fifa official extradited to US

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

Suspect reported to be Jeffrey Webb, a Fifa vice president.

US federal rules say that a charged defendant must be brought before a district judge or magistrate judge in the district in which charges are laid "without unnecessary delay" upon the defendant's arrival in the district.

He could therefore appear in court in Brooklyn on Thursday or later this week.

Get Involved #bbcsportsday

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Gary Hornsby: Perhaps one of the most famous on-field bust-ups being Dyer and Bowyer at Newcastle. Horrendous scenes.

Paul Fearon: When Bradley Orr was sent off for Bristol City v Northampton for fighting a team mate. City still came from behind to win. Send us your comments on Twitter using #bbcsportsday and on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

The first of seven Fifa officials arrested on corruption charges have been extradited to US from Switzerland, say Swiss officials.

A statement from the Swiss Justice Department says the first extradition of a official took place on 15 July. It read: ''He was handed over to a three-man US police escort in Zurich who accompanied him on the flight to New York."

You can follow this breaking story via this link from BBC News.

Blackpool friendly off

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Blackpool's pre-season friendly at Morecambe on Tuesday, 28 July has been called off because of "safety concerns in light of a planned protest".

The Seasiders' friendly against Lancaster on 11 July was abandoned after some fans invaded the pitch in protest against chairman Karl Oyston.

The League One club say they are "extremely disappointed" their match against Morecambe has been called off.

On this day - 2009

Aston Villa signed Middlesbrough and England winger Stewart Downing on a four-year deal.

Could the 30-year-old go full circle back to Boro? He's expected to re-sign for his hometown club from West, with his medical booked for Thursday.

Valdes hits back at Van Gaal?

Manchester United goalkeeper Victor Valdes will be sold after manager Louis van Gaal claimed he "refused to play" in the reserves. But Valdes has tweeted pictures of reserve games from his time at Old Trafford...

Spieth tees off

AP

Jordan Spieth is aiming to become the second man to win the first three Majors of the year.

The 21-year-old has won the The Masters and US Open already this year and is the red hot favourite to win the Open at St Andrews, where he has only played one competitive round.

He has just teed off and you can follow his progress along with the latest from the home of golf with BBC Sport's live text commentary right here.

Wilshere wants Wenger clarification

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Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere is to speak to manager Arsene Wenger about his role in the team, according to The Daily Telegraph.

The 23-year-old has been used as a holding midfielder by England manager Roy Hodgson but Wenger appears more inclined to use Wilshere in a more attacking role.

Sterling arrives in Australia

Manchester City have signed Raheem Sterling from Liverpool in a £49m deal and the forward has joined his new club on their pre-season tour of Australia...

The Indian Problem League?

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The Indian Premier League has helped turn cricket into a billion-dollar business.

But after the suspension of the Chennai Super Kings and the Rajasthan Royals for illegal betting, what will happen to the sport's richest cricket tournament?

BBC Sport's Rahul Tandon looks at the future of the IPL.

'He already knew what was coming'

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Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal told Robin van Persie that the striker did not have a future at the Old Trafford club at an annual end of season golf day, according to the Daily Mirror.

Van Persie, 31, has now joined Turkish side Fenerbahce.

"It is very difficult to catch players, it is very difficult to let them go," said Van Gaal.

"I had already had the conversation with him at the end of last season, so he already knew what was coming. He has made a very good choice."

Kaka's still got it

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World Cup winner Kaka scored for Orlando City as the Major League Soccer side beat West Brom 3-1 in a friendly in Florida.

The Baggies took a 14th-minute lead through Callum McManaman's goal but 33-year-old Kaka, who helped Brazil win the 2002 World Cup, equalised when he ran with the ball from 40 yards out and scored past Boaz Myhill.

Second-half goals from Carlos Rivas and Bryan Rochez secured the win for the American side.

Kuyt congratulates Van Persie

Robin van Persie has joined Fenerbahce from Manchester United and ex-Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt sent his fellow Dutchman congratulations on signing for his former club...

Sunderland sign Lens

Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat has also been adding to his squad. The Black Cats have signed Netherlands midfielder Jeremain Lens from Dynamo Kiev for £8m.

SAFC

The 27-year-old, who has joined on a four-year contract, worked with Advocaat at AZ Alkmaar and PSV Eindhoven.

If you want to know what sort of player he is, he's quite happy to tell you. "My qualities are that I'm fast, I can score goals and I can create chances," said Lens.

Lens is Sunderland's third signing of the summer after the arrivals of defenders Adam Matthews and Sebastian Coates from Celtic and Liverpool respectively.

Get involved

SNS

Celtic may have won but manager Ronny Deila admitted Stefan Johansen and Leigh Griffiths arguing over the taking of a penalty was "unprofessional".

So we want to know your sporting bust-ups. It could be from games you have watched where players on the same side started fighting or arguing. Also, tell us your personal experiences. Have things got heated in your Sunday League matches? Why and what happened?

Let us know via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on BBC Sport Facebook.

Celtic win ends on sour note

Celtic were in Champions League qualifier action last night and beat Icelandic side Stjarnan 2-0 in Glasgow in the first leg of the second qualifying round.

Defender Dedryck Boyata headed home from corner before Stefan Johansen then tucked home Stuart Armstrong's clever cut-back for Celtic's goals.

PA

But there was a sour note when substitute Leigh Griffiths had a penalty kick saved after squabbling with team-mate Johansen for the ball.

'Carrick has to fight for Man Utd future'

After signing Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin, Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has warned 33-year-old England midfielder Michael Carrick that he will have to fight for his future at the club.

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Morgan Schneiderlin (left) and Bastian Schweinsteiger (right) have given Louis van Gaal more options in midfield

"In top sport, no position is ever secure in top sport," said van Gaal. "Even my position is not secure. The players have to fight. Michael Carrick knows it because I told him at the end of the season.

"Morgan Schneiderlin has to fight with Bastian Schweinsteiger, Michael Carrick and Daley Blind. These are the players who can play in the centre of midfield. Matteo Darmian has to fight with Antonio Valencia (at right-back). He knows that but Valencia knows that also."

'I needed a few days off'

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Has Andy Murray recovered from his Wimbledon semi-final exit to Roger Federer? Is he ready to play for Great Britain in their Davis Cup tie against France? And, more importantly, what does he think about his Team GB team-mates team-mates James Ward, brother Jamie and Dom Inglot.

Well, all those questions and more are answered in his latest BBC Sport column which you can read here.

Gossip column

We'll have the latest from the football world here throughout the day but, in the meantime, here's a quick gossip hit for you. You can read more here.

Manchester United are set to beat Liverpool to the signing of Aston Villa's Belgium striker Christian Benteke, with a £32.5m offer for the 24-year-old. (Sun - subscription)

But Benteke is keen to join Liverpool, though the Reds still need to agree a fee with Villa. (Daily Mail)

Tottenham are in talks to sell striker Roberto Soldado, 30, to Sevilla for £11m less than the £26m they paid Valencia for the Spaniard in 2013. (Daily Mirror)

Follow The Open

If you want to know what today's pin positions are as well as all the latest from The Open, you can follow it here.

Golf fans can follow every shot of the 2015 Open Championship across the BBC. Sixty years after first televising the event, the BBC are offering live and exclusive TV coverage from St Andrews.

BBC Sport's digital platforms will provide a live video stream, with live text, score updates, interviews and analysis from presenters and pundits.

Radio 5 live will also be across all four days in what is the 144th year of competition for the Claret Jug.

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Keeper to leave Man Utd

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David de Gea has been linked with a move to Real Madrid for most of the summer but he is not the keeper who is to be sold by Manchester United - not yet anyway.

No, the keeper in question is Victor Valdes. The ex-Barcelona stopper only signed for the Old Trafford outfit in January but is to be offloaded after United manager Louis van Gaal claimed the 33-year-old "refused to play" in the reserves.

"He doesn't follow my philosophy. There is no place for someone like that," said Van Gaal.

'The biggest league'

Jordy Clasie joins Juanmi, Cuco Martina, Cedric Soares and Maarten Stekelenburg in being signed by Southampton manager Ronald Koeman this summer.

"It's a big club playing in what I think is the biggest and most important league," said Clasie. "Ronald being here is a big thing for me and that was important in me coming here, but even if he wasn't here I'd have come to this club.

"I played every game for him. He's a good trainer and a good man so I like him, but I came here not only for him, I came here for the club.

"I've watched many games of Southampton and it's felt good when I've watched the games. I hope that I have many good moments and good years here."

Clasie signing for Southampton

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Let's have a signing story to start the day then shall we. Just in case you missed it from late last night, Southampton have signed Netherlands midfielder Jordy Clasie from Feyenoord for a fee in the region of £8m.

There have been plenty of players going the other way through the St Mary's stadium revolving doors but this time it's a player coming in.

The 24-year-old has agreed a five-year deal with the Premier League club and worked under Saints boss Ronald Koeman at Feyenoord, where he played 129 games. He has 11 caps for his country and was part of the squad that finished third at the 2014 World Cup.

Thursday's back pages

Guardian

Thursday's back pages

Daily Star

Thursday's back pages

Sun

Thursday's back pages

Times

Thursday's back pages

Daily Mirror

Welcome

Can you feel that buzz? The buzz of anticipation and excitement as two of sport's most iconic venues host two of sport's most famous events. Today sees the start of The Open at the home of golf, St Andrews, as the second Test of the Ashes also gets under way at Lord's, the home of cricket. On top of that, some stunning scenery provides the backdrop as the Tour de France continues.

Breathe it in folks, there's a big day of sport ahead and you can follow it live on the BBC Sport website.

Meanwhile, here on Sportsday, we'll provide you with the best of the rest from the sporting world, including all the latest goings on in the football transfer market. First, let's have a gander at the back pages...