Sportsday - football transfer news

1. Delph move to Man City back on
2. Liverpool meet £32.5m Benteke clause
3. Ramos to stay at Real Madrid - Benitez
4. Under way at Open after wind and rain delay start
5. Ashes: Australia start day two on 337-1

Goodbye

That is it for another edition of Sportsday but do not fear sports fans there is plenty for you to stay across.

Firstly, you can follow all the latest from England's struggles in the second Ashes Test here.

Also, the second round of The Open is still in play and you can follow that live here.

Enjoy.

Bayern close to Vidal capture

AP

Bayern Munich are in negotiations to sign Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal but chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge says a deal is not yet done.

"I've read about it and I'm not going to hide the fact that we are interested in him, but I read that it was all wrapped up and I cannot confirm that," said Rummenigge.

"As I've said, we're interested, but we're not yet so far that we've discussed details and signed contracts, so we need a bit of patience.

"I hope at the end of the day he will come."

Mitrovic to Chelsea... or Newcastle... or Swansea

According to The Daily Star, Chelsea want to sign Serbia striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, 20, from Anderlecht for a reported £15m.

The Blues have also been linked with Barcelona's Pedro but Mitrovic is apparently more in line with the sort of young forward boss Jose Mourinho wants as back-up to striker Diego Costa and loan signing Radamel Falcao.

Newcastle and Swansea are also interested.

Getty Images

Captain Intelligent

MK Dons signing Real Madrid youngster?

Getty Images

BBC Three Counties Radio Sports Editor, Geoff Doyle is reporting that MK Dons, who will be playing in the Championship next season, are being linked with the Real Madrid youngster Cristian Benavente dubbed the 'Peruvian Ronaldinho'.

Benavente was playing for the Madrid B team last season under Zinedine Zidane. West Brom were reportedly interested but it now seems that he's heading towards the land of Concrete Cows. The Spanish-born player is a full international for Peru although he missed out on this summer's Copa America.

Spanish interest in Michu

PA

Spanish clubs Rayo Vallecano and Granada are both interested in Swansea City forward Michu.

The Spaniard, 29, spent last season on loan at Napoli in Italy, but injuries limited him to six games.

"We will always be interested in Michu. Whether we'll be able to make that transfer happen is another thing," said Rayo director Felipe Minambres.

Granada sporting director Juan Carlos Cordero said: "We like Michu a lot. We have spoken to him and with his agent, but there is no agreement nor have we begun negotiations."

Crolla 'overwhelmed' by support

BBC

BBC Sport's Michael Emons at Cathedral Gardens, Manchester: World title contender Anthony Crolla (pictured left) says he has been 'overwhelmed' by the support he has received after an attack left him fearing for his life.

More than 500 fans cheered Crolla on as he weighed-in for tomorrow's WBA lightweight title fight against Colombian Darleys Perez with a crowd of 14,000 expected at Manchester Arena on Saturday.

"It means the world to me - it was a great turn out," said Crolla, who suffered a fractured skull and broken ankle when he was hit by a concrete slab after he confronted burglars at his neighbours' house in December.

"I've been overwhelmed by people's reactions. I want to thank everyone tomorrow by winning the title - I can't wait."

Davis Cup update

Getty Images

Great Britain lost their opening match of the Davis Cup quarter-final tie against France but Andy Murray has just levelled the score at 1-1 after beating Jo-Wilfred Tsonga in straight sets.

Follow the reaction here.

Gomez 'will get games"

Getty Images

Brendan Rodgers has said that teenager Joe Gomez will not be loaned out and will have a chance to make his mark at Liverpool next season.

Rodgers has been impressed by the versatile defender, and is confident he can contribute to his side.

"I always bring them (young palyers) in and over pre-season have a good idea of whether we're going to keep them or not," said Rodgers after his side beat Brisbane Roar 2-1 in a pre-season friendly on their tour of Australia.

"Seeing him, in particular close at hand and his personality - he'll be staying"

Football sponsors urged to pull out

Getty Images

Peers have been told about Premier League clubs failing to provide enough facilities for disabled fans

Premier League sponsors and broadcasters have been told to pull out of football unless progress is made in providing facilities for disabled fans.

Lord Holmes of Richmond, Britain's most successful Paralympic swimmer, made the call during the second reading of The Accessible Sports Grounds Bill.

He told the House of Lords: "What we see is nothing short of shambolic."

The move comes after a BBC Sport investigation found top-flight clubs discriminated against disabled fans.

Lineker switches to golf

Watching the cricket appears to have got too much for BBC Match of the Day presenter GaryLineker...

Pogba not for sale

Getty Images

Juventus insist midfielder Paul Pogbais not for sale, despite a bid from Barcelona.

Joan Laporta has claimed that he would sign the 22-year-old, who is also reportedly a target of Manchester City and Chelsea, if he is elected as Barca's club president this summer.

Juve director Giuseppe Marotta said: "Whoever is interested needs to talk to us and not with agent Mino Raiola.

"Barca cannot make any signings and Juve does not want to sell."

Ashes update

Talk about things going from bad to worse for England. The hosts have just lost Joe Root and are 30-4 in reply to Australia's 566-8 dec.

Follow all the action live here.

Martinez rejects Evans link

PA

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has insisted the Merseysiders are not on the brink of signing Jonny Evans from Manchester United.

The 27-year-old Northern Ireland international has been linked with the Toffees but Martinez said: "It's not true, there's nothing (in that).

"I always said I'm not going to be commenting publicly on any of the names that have been shared around but I can tell you clearly that there is nothing true in that story."

So that's a maybe then Roberto?

TDF: Stage 13 - Van Avermaet wins

It was a phenomenal run up to the finishing line but Greg Van Avermaet of BMC Pro cycling has taken the win for the 198.5 km stage in four hours, 43 minutes and 42 seconds.

Getty Images

Chris Froome snuck in a sixth-placed finish. That maintains his lead of 2 mins 52 seconds over Tejay van Garderen in the race for the yellow jersey.

Follow all the reaction here

Quigg expects "toughest fight"

BBC

BBC Sport's Michael Emons at Cathedral Gardens, Manchester: England's Scott Quigg says he is ready for the "toughest fight" of his life as he defends his WBA Super-Bantamweight Championship for a fifth time.

Quigg (pictured right) faces Spain's Kiko Martinez at Manchester Arena on Saturday.

"I feel good and I'm in the best shape of my life - I've trained like a demon and I'm going to go there and do what I have to," said Quigg.

"This is the biggest fight of them all as winning this one will lead me to massive fights so I'm fully focused. It's the toughest test of my career but I know I'm ready for it."

McCarey given ban for failed test

Wolves keeper Aaron McCarey has been given a suspended four-month ban for failing a drugs test, back-dated to his original suspension on 21 April.

The ban, suspended for two years, means that the 23-year-old is now free to play for the Championship side.

McCarey was banned in April having tested positive for a non-performance enhancing substance.

Ashes 2015: Oh dear, oh dear...

England's reply to Australia's mammoth 566-8 dec. has not started well as opener Adam Lyth has been dismissed after just two balls.

The hosts are 10-1 and you can follow it live here.

Getty Images

Get involved - Sport's biggest U-turns

Ben Smith: David Unsworth signed for Villa in the mid 90s then a week later we had to let him go to Everton. Is that an O turn?!

Peter Collins: Don't think can top Kaboul signing for Sunderland seven years after he said he would never join them in an earthquake.

ChelseafanUSA: Chelsea's European campaign after winning the Champions League. Went from winning the CL to failing in the Group Stage.

Bale tries Aussie Rules

Real Madrid are on a pre-season tour in Australia at the moment. 

Welshman Gareth Bale appeared to take to Australian Rules Football with ease...

Gloucestershire 218 & 202-4, Leicestershire 215

BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Bob Hunt at Cheltenham:

"Gloucestershire continue to build up a healthy lead at picturesque Cheltenham College.

"Only two wickets have fallen all day and they lead by 205, with Kieran Noema-Barnett (36) and Benny Howell (50) recording their best scores of the season in an unbroken stand of 71."

Baggies release Samaras

Getty Images

Georgios Samaras has had his contract at West Brom terminated by mutual consent.

Samaras had 12 months remaining on the two-year deal he signed last summer when he moved to The Hawthorns as a free agent after being released by Scottish champions Celtic.

Boro bring in Kalas

Empics

Championship club Middlesbrough have signed defender Tomas Kalas on loan for the 2015-16 season from Premier League champions Chelsea.

The 22-year-old was on loan at Boro for the second half of last season and made 17 appearances.

Kalas was part of the Czech Republic side which played in this summer's European Under-21 Championships.

Open update

Great Britain's Danny Willett had feared the weather would have a negative impact on his game, but the vicar's son from Sheffield has managed to master the conditions to lead the Open Championship at St Andrews.

He is currently on -10 with Zac Johnson close by on -7.

Follow all the action live here.

.

Tea time at Lord's

.

Follow the action live here.

Murray 5-5 Tsonga

Anyone else barely recognise Queens Club all decked out in British Racing Green...?

BBC

Nothing in it at the moment between Andy Murray and Jo-Wilfred Tsonga. All is currently going with serve...

Watch live action here.

Real Madrid sign keeper

Getty Images

Real Madrid have been linked with Manchester United stopper David De Gea this summer and they have signed a keeper but it's not the Old Trafford player.

The Spanish club have agreed a deal to re-sign Espanyol goalkeeper Kiko Casilla for £4.2m, subject to a medical.

Real had retained 50% ownership of the 28-year-old when he left them for Espanyol in 2007.

Hughes planning on achieving "great things"

Getty Images

Anguilla-born British 200m champion Zharnel Hughes believes winning World Championship and Olympic medals may be the only way to silence his critics.

Hughes was only deemed eligible for Team GB in June, something fellow sprinter Richard Kilty disagreed with and former heptathlete Kelly Sotherton said she was 'not sure' about.

"If I continue to progress I think they will get to like me more," said Hughes, who also adds that he plans on achieving "great things" with Team GB at the World Championships and next year in Rio.

His next competition will be the Anniversary Games at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park later this month.

Arsenal in Singapore

Arsenal players have been meeting fans on their tour of Singapore...

Koeman on Vitesse return

PA

Southampton play Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem in the third qualifying round of the Europa League and the draw will see the south coast outfit's boss Ronald Koeman face the club where he started his managerial career.

"It is nice because it was my first club starting as a head coach, so it is nice to come back," said Koeman.

"But it is okay, it is a good draw, we play against a good team, at least a team who likes to play football, so we will wait to see what happens.

"In the possibilities that we had to draw, maybe it is the worst of that, but it means Europa League football, and we have to show we are a better team than Vitesse and we have two games to do that."

Get Involved

Can you name a bigger sporting U-turn than Fabian Delph, who now looks like he is on the brink of signing for Manchester City after saying he would stay at Aston Villa just six days ago?

BBC Radio 5 live

Luis could make Atletico return

PA

Chelsea only signed Brazil international Filipe Luis for £15.8m last summer but they are in talks with Atletico Madrid about the left-back returning to the Spanish club.

"There are negotiations in place but I don't know how fruitful they will be," Atletico president Enrique Cerezo told Spanish media. "Filipe Luis is a magnificent player.

"We would be delighted if he comes back and I think that in the end, we will find a solution.

"As always, the financial aspect takes precedence over the sentimental aspect but I believe a deal can be reached."

Get involved

Twitter

We assume Paddy is an Aston Villa fan, who has certainly had to ensure his fair share of twits and turns with the will he/won't Fabian Delph to Manchester City saga.

1-0 to France in Davis Cup

Game, set and match in the Davis Cup.

France go 1-0 up at Queens Club

GB's James Ward is beaten 4-6, 4-6, 1-6 by Gilles Simon.

Getty Images

Andy Murray is up next against Jo-Wilfred Tsonga. Follow the live action here or on the BBC Red Button.

Ashes update

Australia batsman Steve Smith has just passed 200 as he continues to inflict more pain on England's toiling bowlers.

The tourists are 509-5 and you can follow the action live here.

Europa League draw

Southampton will face Dutch club Vitesse Arnhem in the third qualifying round of the Europa League.

Fellow Premier league side West Ham have been handed a potential tie against Scottish Premiership side Inverness Caledonian Thistle should they both progress.

The Hammers hold a slender 1-0 lead over Birkirkara after the first leg against the side from Malta, while Inverness are 1-0 down against FC Astra of Romania.

Get involved

Getty Images

Keep sending us your #SeasonHopesInEmojis and give us a little flavour of what you think is in store for your club!

Quigg and Crolla weigh-in

BBC

BBC Sport's Michael Emons at Cathedral Gardens, Manchester: "Scott Quigg is making the fifth defence of his WBA world super-bantamweight championship and weighed in slightly heavier than Spanish opponent Kiko Martinez.

"Quigg weighs in at 8st 9lbs 12 oz, with Martinez 2oz lighter. The Bury man says he faces the toughest fight of his career and, like Crolla, received a great reception from his home fans."

Delph's move to Man City back on

AP

BBC Sport can confirm Fabian Delph's £8m move from Aston Villa to Manchester City is back on and the 25-year-old England midfielder is currently undergoing a medical.

Sterling has first City training session

Raheem Sterling made a £49m move from Liverpool to Manchester City earlier this week and has been training with his new team-mates on their pre-season tour of Australia...

Ashes update

Another one falls at Lord's.

Getty Images

England's Stuart Broad bowls Mitchell Marsh for 12 to leave Australia 447-5.

Follow the second test live here.

Simmonds and Hynd lead the way

BBC Sport's Elizabeth Hudson in Glasgow: "Ellie Simmonds and Ollie Hynd are among the four British swimmers who have qualified fastest for their finals this evening at the IPC Swimming World Championships.

"Simmonds goes in the SM6 200m individual medley with Hynd in the S8 400m freestyle.

"Also through quickest from this morning's heats are Sascha Kindred in the men's SM6 medley and Tully Kearney in the S9 100m butterfly.

"Nine GB swimmers will be in action as the team hope to add to their single gold medal."

Get involved

As it's #WorldEmojiDay we want to see, in emoji form, your hopes for the coming season.

Let us know on Twitter your #SeasonHopesInEmojis.

Getty Images

BBC

Delph move to Man City back on

Just in case you need reminding, here is Aston Villa midfielder Fabian Delph's statement from just under a week ago when he turned down a move to Manchester City.

"I'm aware there has been intense media speculation surrounding my future in the last 24 hours and I want to set the record straight," he said.

"I'm not leaving. I'm staying at the football club and I can't wait for the start of the season and captaining this great football club."

Delph move to Man City back on

PA

Aston Villa midfielder Fabian Delph appeared all set to make a move to Manchester City last week before announcing he would be staying at the Midlands club.

But, according to the Manchester Evening News, the 25-year-old has changed his mind again - a U-U-turn if you like - and is set for an £8m move to City.

Arsenal's Sanogo joins Ajax

Getty Images

Arsenal striker Yaya Sanogo has joined Dutch club Ajax on loan for the 2015-16 season.

The 22-year-old spent the latter part of last season on loan at Crystal Palace.

"I believe he needs to play. He is ready and he will get an opportunity to play in the Champions League," said Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

Bottas to Ferrari?

Andrew Benson

BBC Sport chief F1 writer

Getty Images

"There has been a report in an Italian newspaper on Friday that Williams driver Valtteri Bottas will move to Ferrari in 2016, as a replacement for Kimi Raikkonen. Corriere della Sport says Ferrari have agreed a price of 12m euros to buy out Bottas's contract.

"I've been doing some digging on this, and sources close to the situation say that the report is not accurate. No deal has been agreed, it is said, and the two parties are still far apart on a potential fee. However, that does not mean it will not happen in the end.

"Ferrari are definitely interested in Bottas and Williams, I understand, would sell if the Italian team offered the right price. There is no word on what that price would be."

Quigg and Crolla weigh-in

BBC

BBC Sport's Michael Emons at Cathedral Gardens, Manchester: "You know it is a big night of boxing coming up when 'the Voice of Boxing' Michael Buffer is present at a weigh-in.

"And Anthony Crolla gets a fantastic reception from a crowd of more than 500 as he steps on the scales.

"He weighs in at 9st 8lb 8oz ready for the biggest night of his life tomorrow. He shows what it means to him by screaming out as he makes the weight for his title fight."

Gloucestershire 218 & 115-3, Leicestershire 215

BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Bob Hunt at Cheltenham:

"It has been an attritional third morning with only 61 runs added to Gloucestershire's overnight total.

"They are slowly building a lead, however, and at lunch it stood at 118, with Gareth Roderick the only wicket to fall.

"His stand of 61 with Michael Klinger was the highest of the match and Klinger is still in on 46 - how Leicestershire will rue Lewis Hill's drop of the simplest of chances behind the stumps remains to be seen."

Transfers: An alternative view

BBC Sport's Mike Armagon takes an irreverent look at some of the summer's most eye-catching transfer deals.

Find out which goalkeeper has gone into semi-retirement, how Steve McClaren has been honing his latest accent and how on earth Mr T has forced his way in here.

BBC

Stones happy at Everton

Reports claim that Everton have rejected a £20m bid from Chelsea for 21-year-old defender John Stones.

Empics

"I am very happy at Everton," said England international Stones on Thursday during Everton's pre-season tour of Singapore.

"My aim right now is to try to nail down a regular spot in this Everton team and hopefully that will take care of playing for England.

"I have to keep learning from the likes of Phil Jagielka and keep progressing at this club."

Liverpool close in on Benteke

PA

Liverpool have met the £32.5m release clause in Belgium international Christian Benteke's contract with Aston Villa and the striker appears set for a move to Anfield.

"I think they've already agreed terms so that won't be a problem, I think it's just formalities that need to be done. I'm told that the deal will be done before Monday," said Belgian journalist Kristoff Terruer.

"After three seasons battling against relegation he's ready for the next step. As there are European Championships coming round next summer with Belgium - and because he missed the 2014 World Cup - he wants to go to a club where he was certain he could play.

"So Liverpool manager Brendan Rogers has done everything he could to convince him to join them I guess."

Get involved

As it's #WorldEmojiDay we want to see, in emoji form, your hopes for the coming season.

Let us know on Twitter your #SeasonHopesInEmojis.

Twitter

Quigg and Crolla weigh-in

BBC

BBC Sport's Michael Emons at Cathedral Gardens, Manchester: "This is the scene at Cathedral Gardens before Scott Quigg and Anthony Crolla weigh-in at 13:20 BST with both boxers fighting for world titles at Manchester Arena on Saturday.

"Quigg is making the fifth defence of his WBA super-bantamweight title and Crolla fights for the WBA lightweight belt.

"For Crolla it comes only eight months after suffering a fractured skull and broken ankle when he was hit by a concrete slab as he confronted burglars at his neighbours' house."

Sandro can reapply for work permit

QPR's Brazilian midfielder Sandro will be able to reapply for a new work permit "once clearance has been given by the football authorities".

Getty Images

Sandro has won 17 international caps for Brazil

The R's were advised not to pick the 26-year-old at the end of last season because of an issue with his visa.

The club had their sponsorship licence - which allows clubs to apply for visas for players from non-EU countries - suspended by the Home Office, but it has now been reinstated.

Davis Cup: GB v France

James Ward faces Gilles Simon in the first match which will take place at Queen's Club.

You can follow all the action in glorious Technicolor here and on the BBC Red Button.

Can Ward capitalise on his good form at Wimbledon and help Great Britain reach the semi-final of the Davis Cup?

Get involved

Twitter

We don't just want fans of Premier League sides giving us their season hopes in Emojis because we know life in the Football League can be a very bumpy ride for many fans. This looks quite the up and down season for Bristol City fan Tom Geoffrey.

Let us know your team and your #SeasonHopesInEmojis on Twitter.

Southampton draw Vitesse Arnhem

A return to the club where Southampton manager Ronald Koeman started his managerial career at awaits the Dutchman...

England on a mini roll now...

Getty Images

England are going through a decent spell but Australia are still putting plenty of runs on the board. The tourists are currently 399-3 on the second day of the second Test.

Follow all the action from Lord's here with Test Match Special and the live text commentary.

Japan's Olympic stadium won't be ready for 2019 World Cup

The Japanese government has decided to scrap its controversial design for the stadium for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.  

This means however that the 2019 Rugby World Cup will be a venue down...

Celtic learn prospective opponents

The winner of Celtic versus Stjarnan will play Qarabag or Rudar Pljevlja in the Champions League third qualifying round.

Celtic or Stjarnan will be at home in the first leg of the third round on the 28 or 29 July.

Qarabag are the champions of Azerbaijan while Rudar Pljevlja triumphed in Montenegro's top flight in 2014-15.

Celtic lead the Icelandic champions by 2-0 going into the second leg of the second qualifying round on 22 July.

Froome set for TDF: Stage 13

Follow the live action from 12:30 BST here.

Get involved on Facebook

As it's #WorldEmojiDay we want to see, in emoji form, your hopes for the coming season.

Let us know on Twitter your #SeasonHopesInEmojis

Facebook

ICC bans Hafeez

Getty Images

Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez has been banned from bowling in international cricket for 12 months after experts adjudged his action to be illegal.

The 34-year-old, who was previously suspended in November 2014 for the same reason, was reported by the match officials following his country's first Test victory over Sri Lanka in Galle last month, in which he recorded match figures of two for 64.

Milner gets Liverpool winner

It's all over. Liverpool went behind in their friendly against Brisbane Roar before goals from Adam Lallana and James Miler gave them victory.

F1 Gossip

Today's edition of F1 gossip includes rumours of Valtteri Bottas going to Ferrari and Jolyon Palmer earning a seat at Lotus next season. Motorsport.com have spoken to the promoter of the German Grand Prix about its short and long term future.

It also features Lewis Hamilton putting on a brave face getting another tattoo...

BBC

Wonder if he had to go back to squeezing a friend's hand after this picture was taken...

Stones in Singapore

Chelsea have been linked with Everton defender John Stones but here he is in Singapore modelling Everton's new away kit...

Wales suffer World Cup setback

Getty Images

Wales prop Rhodri Jones is out of the Rugby World Cup after rupturing a pectoral muscle.

Jones will be injured for up to 14 weeks and Cardiff Blues prop Scott Andrews has been called into the Wales training squad as a replacement.

ECB denies Rashid rift

Sam Sheringham

BBC Sport

PA

"The ECB is denying reports of a rift with Adil Rashid. The Yorkshire leg-spinner reported for training on Tuesday with an injury to the ring finger of his right hand. And while the England medical staff were surprised not to have been alerted to the injury beforehand, they were never required to make a final call on his fitness to play because Moeen Ali was on course to make a full recovery from his side strain.

"Rashid then returned to Yorkshire on Wednesday. Contrary to reports, the ECB insists it would be very happy for Rashid to play in Yorkshire's County Championship match against Worcestershire at Scarborough on Monday because it would give him a chance to prove his fitness before the squad for the third Test is announced on Tuesday."

Get Involved

To mark #WorldEmojiDay BBC News have put together a little Emoji based quiz. Can you decode this emoji news? Have a go here.

BBC

And don't forget to keep your #SeasonHopesInEmojis coming in to us via @BBCSport or on the Match of the Day Facebook page.

The Ashes 2015: Day 2, Second Test

BBC

Day two of 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 5 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.

You. Are. Welcome.

The political (and sometimes dark) world of FC Barcelona

Looming large over even transfer speculation at Barcelona this summer, is the forthcoming presidential election which will take place on Saturday.

It seems to be a very politically sensitive subject with accusations against candidates being banded around leading up to the election.

Spanish football writer Andy West has been brave enough to investigate further and you can read from him here.

Getty Images

Joan Laporta is hoping for a second stint as Barcelona president, having filled the role from 2003-2010

County Championship prospects

The match is in the balance at Cheltenham with Gloucestershire set to begin day three on 54-2 in their second innings against Leicestershire, a lead of 57 runs.

Michael Klinger and Gareth Roderick are the not out batsmen, both on 11, after Charlie Shreck removed both openers in Thursday's final session.

Later today, there is another round of eight games in the T20 Blast competition, with Kent v Glamorgan at Tunbridge Wells the early start at 17:30 BST.

Get involved

Twitter

We've asked you to send in your #SeasonHopesInEmojis and there is a distinct lack of optimism from this Liverpool fan....

Keep them coming!

Lallana levels for Liverpool

Liverpool went behind in a pre-season friendly at Brisbane Roar before Adam Lallana equalised.

All Blacks shrug off Argentina

Getty Images

New Zealand stepped up their World Cup preparations to secure a bonus-point 39-18 victory over Argentina in their Rugby Championship opener in Christchurch.

Captain Richie McCaw, Ma'a Nonu, Charles Piutau, Kieran Read and debutant Codie Taylor all scored tries for the All Blacks while Dan Carter slotted 14 points from the boot.

New Zealand play South Africa in Johannesburg next week, while the Pumas return home to host Australia in Mendoza.

Ramos staying at Real Madrid

PA

Manchester United target Sergio Ramos will not leave Real Madrid this summer, according to the Spanish club's boss Rafael Benitez.

United have had a bid of £28m rejected by Real for the 29-year-old Spain defender.

But Benitez said: "I see Sergio as an integral part of our team. He's a winner and that's what we need.

"For me, the matter [is that] the president has already commented that he is staying with the club."

Lallana levels for Liverpool

Things didn't start as planned for Liverpool against Brisbane Roar as the Reds went behind to a Dimitri Petratos goal.

But Adam Lallana has just cut inside and curled a shot into the far side of the goal to equalise.

Liverpool close in on Benteke

More on Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke. According to The Mirror, the 24-year-old will not play in Friday's friendly against Sporting Braga in Portugal with his £32.5m move to Liverpool set to be completed.

Liverpool have struggled for goals since the departure of Luis Suarez to Barcelona for £75m last summer, and with Daniel Sturridge spending most of last season out injured.

The Reds have received £49m from the sale of Raheem Sterling to Manchester City and look ready to use a large chunk of that on Benteke.

Getty Images

Get involved

So today is apparently #WorldEmojiDay (Yep, that's a thing...) So we want to see, in emoji form, your hopes for the coming season.

How do you feel your season will pan out? When will be the highs and when will be the lows? And will it end in celebration, or relegation?

Let us know on Twitter your #SeasonHopesInEmojis

Will this fan be right?

Twitter

Spurs' new away strip

Spurs have unveiled their new away kit...

Milner and Ings start for Liverpool line-up

Liverpool have just got under way in a pre-season friendly against Brisbane Roar on their tour of Australia and manager Brendan Rodgers has picked new signings James Milner, Nathaniel Clyne, Joe Gomez and Danny Ings in his starting line-up.

Striker Divock Origi also plays having arrived at the club after spending last season on loan at Lille.

Liverpool XI: Mignolet, Clyne, Skrtel, Sakho, Gomez, Henderson, Lucas, Milner, Ings, Lallana, Origi.

Keeping up with Man Utd's keeper confusion

There have been a few twists and turns to Manchester United's keeper line-up already, and it's only July.

According to The Times, David De Gea, who has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid, will not be sold in this transfer window. Apparently, they will now wait until the end of next summer when the Spaniard will be available on a free transfer.

Getty Images

This comes on the back of United boss Louis van Gaal saying keeper Victor Valdes will be sold after claiming he "refused to play" in the reserves.

Crouch expects Stoke to kick on

Getty Images

Stoke City striker Peter Crouch believes the club's signings will help the Potters improve on their ninth-place finish from the past two seasons.

Former Liverpool right-back Glen Johnson has joined the Britannia Stadium outfit on a free, along with winger Moha El Ouriachi from Barcelona and midfielder Marco van Ginkel arriving on loan from Chelsea.

"We are now attracting top quality signings and top quality players," said Crouch during the club's tour of Singapore.

"I have just finished my fourth season at Stoke City and the difference in the calibre of players, the confidence and the size of the squad has improved no end.

"Each season it seems to improve and this one will be no different."

Ashes Second Test: Day 2

Good news is it isn't raining at Lord's... touch wood.

You can follow all the live action from the second day of the second test on Test Match Special here.

Getty Images

Later on, James Ward will play Gilles Simon in the opening match of Britain's Davis Cup quarter-final against France at Queen's Club. Watch live on the BBC Red Button & online at 12:25 BST and follow live here.

Getty Images

Also today we have live commentary of Stage 13 of the Tour De France where Chris Froome still wears the yellow jersey - 12:30 BST.

Getty Images

Tomic apologises after arrest

Miami Beach Police

Bernard Tomic was photographed by Miami Beach Police (right)

Nick Kyrgios has competition for the "Bad Boy of Aussie Tennis" title.

Bernard Tomic has apologised after being charged with resisting arrest and trespassing by Miami Beach Police.

The 22-year-old was accused of refusing to leave his hotel room after an alleged altercation with staff and police on Wednesday.

Tomic said: "It was my mistake and I guess I have to pay the price for it."

Witnesses claim Tomic was asked to turn down his music following complaints from other residents.

All hands on deck

Rain, rain go away

Thankfully, the forecast for the Open is a little bit better from 11:00 BST onwards. Rain should stop then, and it'll be 17C for most of the afternoon.

Check the weather here. You can follow our live text commentary of the golf here.

West Ham win in Europa League

James Tomkins's 90th-minute winner earned West Ham a narrow Europa League second qualifying round first leg lead over Malta's Birkirkara. (Got all that)?

Getty Images

The Hammers dominated possession but failed to make it count until defender Tomkins chested home from a corner.

In front of a crowd of 33,048, Modibo Maiga hit a post for the hosts, while skipper Kevin Nolan went close with an acrobatic volley.

The return leg takes place on 23 July.

The heavens Open

I think it may take a bit of time before the course is playable for the Open at St Andrews. There has been a drop or two of rain, as our reporter Ben Smith points out...

@BenSmithBBC

Wenger press conference

Arsenal are currently on tour in Singapore, where they will play in the Asia Trophy. Their manager Arsene Wenger has been speaking to the press this morning and has had this to say...

On the club's ambitions for next season: "[The title] is our target and we feel we have a chance in a very competitive league. We are not far [away]."

On Hector Bellerin and Francis Coquelin: "Bellerin and Coquelin have to confirm [their quality] this season, that is the challenge."

On Yaya Sanogo: "He will go on loan, I believe he needs to play. He's ready and he'll get an opportunity to play in the Champions League."

Getty Images

Get involved

BBC

Back in May you told your season's story in emojis and, as today is apparently #WorldEmojiDay we now want to know your hopes for the coming season.

So, let us know, in emoji form, how you feel your season will pan out. When will be the highs and when will be the lows? And will it end in celebration, or relegation?

Let us know on Twitter your #SeasonHopesInEmojis

Smith rubs salt in England's wounds

Guardian

They may be going easy on the sledging but the Australians are pulling no punches with the mind games. Or the runs. After piling on 337-1 on day one at Lord's, Steve Smith (who was one of two players who scored a century, along with Chris Rogers) has had a cheeky pop at England's "negative tactics" and the Guardian have led with it.

Woods woes continue

Daily Telegraph

We'll be following all the action from the Open throughout the day. But one big line from yesterday's play was Tiger Woods's failed attempts to recapture past glories. In fact, with the cricket as well, the Daily Telegraph back page makes for particularly sad reading.

New homes for Benteke and Austin?

Mirror

It would appear to be striker moving day in the Premier League. The Daily Mirror also go big on Christian Benteke to Liverpool but also report that Newcastle have made a fresh move for QPR's Charlie Austin.

Benzema a Gooner?

Sun

As previously mentioned, Karim Benzema could be leaving Real Madrid and on his way to Arsenal, at least according to the Sun anyway. They also back up what we've been telling you this morning; that Liverpool have triggered Christian Benteke's £32.5m release clause.

Today's gossip

AP

Arsenal after Karim Benzema, Chelsea chasing Aleksandar Mitrovic and Everton expected to sign Jonny Evans. It's all in today's gossip, along with a load more transfer stories. So why not head over there and fill your boots before we throw some back pages at you?

Day 2 of The Open

Despite him looking relatively hacked off here, Dustin Johnson leads after the first round (-7) and will tee off at 14:34 (weather permitting).

Getty Images

Read about yesterday's action here where 14-time major champion Tiger Woods finished the day in 139th place and risks missing the cut at the end of today. More from that later but in the mean time, catch up with .

Follow all of today's happenings from with our live text commentary.

Pellegrini on Sterling

Speaking of Raheem Sterling, Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has been chatting about his latest big-money signing.

"I think that Raheem can play in different positions - he can play as a forward because he has a lot of speed or he can play also on the wing," Pellegrini told the Manchester City website. "He's a very young player so he has a lot of things to improve. I think it's important for him to have a new challenge in our team where he will play with great players which will improve his game. He will also improve us as a team.

"I think that Raheem has already demonstrated what he can do as a player at Liverpool but he's just 20 years old so he has a lot of things to improve.

"It will depend how he works over the next few years but I am sure he will be very important in our team, especially for his speed."

Reuters

Liverpool trigger Benteke clause

The big football news this morning is that Liverpool have met a £32.5m release clause for Aston Villa's Belgium striker Christian Benteke, triggering a potential transfer. With £49m of cash burning a hole in their pocket following the sale of Raheem Sterling, the Reds are looking for a statement of intent and this could well be it.

Benteke scored 12 goals in 12 games in the 2014-15 season to help keep Villa in the Premier League.

Reuters

What's coming up?

Good morning and welcome to Sportsday Live

Stick with BBC Sport today as there is an abundance of live sport and we have it all covered.

For a start, follow all the action from day two of the second Ashes test from 09:00 BST with our live text accompanied by commentary from Test Match Special on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra.

If you missed any of yesterday's coverage or just want to refresh your memory, catch up with the brilliant Pint Sized Ashes here.

BBC

Welcome to Sportsday

"It's another Great British day of sport today" which roughly translates to "play has been suspended because of rain at The Open at St Andrews"...

PA