Mourinho reaction

Definitely think Diego Simeone's got the character to handle the flour flying around in the kitchen while you've got to ice a lemon drizzle...

"It's not cake making, this is football, there are harsh words in dressing rooms. 

"These are brutal places to be and if you can't cope you are outed, you have to have character to be at the top level."

Sun journalist Rob Beasley: "Why would two of the most in-demand managers in the world want to go to Chelsea? 

"You've got more chance of having two or three years at Manchester United or Manchester City than you have of a full season at Chelsea."

European football journalist Graham Hunter: "The bet has to be no but in football nothing is impossible when you have the persuasive powers of Chelsea. Simeone is known to have Abramovich's appreciation of him but Atletico Madrid is the club he is most passionate about, everything he has asked for he has been given." 

You can listen live to BBC Radio 5 live's discussion panel using the links at the top of this page.

So who is next for Chelsea? 

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone's been linked, and Guus Hiddink in a caretaker role until the end of the season has been widely reported. 

There's been a few other names thrown out there which are, let's say, more interesting?

Juande Ramos anyone? Brendan Rodgers?.. (Dare I even type the name...) Avram Grant?

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"I go to every game and I’m a paid up season ticket holder and the side I’ve watched this year is nothing compared to what it was last year. Something obviously has happened and I don’t think you just blame one person, you have to look at the bigger picture.

"As a fan I wanted Mourinho to stay and I believe he would have turned it around."

Here's former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher's take, speaking on Sky: “At times he’s hung the players out to dry publicly and he's probably done it privately too. 

“I’m a massive fan of Jose Mourinho, but with the results, something had to change. The only way you can change it right now is change the manager. You can’t change the players.

“It was the only decision the owner could make really.”

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Daily Telegraph journalist Jason Burt:"When Jose Mourinho went in 2007, it was basically civil war at Chelsea. He was arguing with everyone at the club. 

"This time it has not been like that. If anything the club has probably tried too much to help him, but results just haven't been good enough."

Listen to tonight's special panel discussion of Jose Mourinho's sacking as Chelsea manager using the link at the top of this page.

Alex: Chelsea have had this coming for years. They've allowed players to dictate how long a manager stays with the club and when the players get bored, they stop playing for them and Abramovich gets them a new manager. As soon as the players got it in their heads that Jose is going nowhere, they would have started playing for him and results would picked up. Abramovich should have come out and said Jose will see out his contract and the players will have to either play for him or get out. Utterly disgraceful. There isn't anyone else that can create a Chelsea dynasty other than him. Sir Alex Ferguson was successful because all the players knew he was going anywhere and couldn't get away with slacking. 

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There’s been a lot of talk about how this affects Jose Mourinho’s reputation.

But what about Chelsea’s? Will managers now think twice before signing up knowing that a dip in form won’t be given time to resolve?

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"The players haven’t played for the manager. I would say they haven’t played for the club and they haven’t played for their teammates. 

"That’s why this decision has been taken, which I think is bitterly disappointing."

Journalist Rob Beasley: "If you watched Eden Hazard the other night at Leicester, if that wasn't a guy that showed no guts or stomach for the fight I have never seen one. 

"When you have players like that you are going to have problems as a manager no matter who you are."

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Neil Osmond: A sad day. Players paid millions to sulk and not give their all. Dedicated fans lose out. Get a grip football!

Steve T Davies: I think he should've stayed but now we must move on. CFC is bigger than Jose. Players must respond and turn season round.

Tweet us on #bbcsportsday or text us on 81111 (UK only - and please include a name). 

A lot of the chat onBBC Radio 5 live's panel discussionis honing in on Eden Hazard as the man who has let Jose Mourinho and Chelsea down this year...

Would you agree with that Blues fans?  

Don't forget you can listen along using the links at the top of this page. Or just turn your radio on...

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Earlier on we asked you to vote on whether Chelsea were right to sack Jose Mourinho. 

The results are in, and it's good news Jose. Not that it'll get you your job back...

Yes: 38%

No: 62% 

"Call me the Special One."

Jose Mourinho is a man who once told us he was everything.

On his return to Chelsea for this ill-fated second spell in charge, he was "the Happy One".

But what is he now?  

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"The truth is there are a lot of enormous egos in that dressing room and some of them have downed tools. It is not acceptable but it is nearly always the manager that carries the can.

"Cesc Fabregas was one of those players. Diego Costa was, Branislav Ivanovic, Nemanja Matic, Eden Hazard. 

"The other night Mourinho was inferring there wasn't an awful lot wrong with Hazard when he had to come off at Leicester..."

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has got some bad news if you're waking up in Australia (or anywhere else for that matter)...

Geb: I still believe that Jose is the best in the business from a tactical viewpoint. However, this has often been achieved by adopting a "win at all costs" boring football style. As a long - term season ticket holder l agree with Roman and want to be entertained. Jose's Chelsea don't give us this, nor are we getting results. Sorry Jose, you had to go.

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"There was a desperation from Chelsea to change the system – they wanted to try and build a dynasty but they obviously felt they had to act. 

"If you are into short-termism it is the right decision. But Jose Mourinho is a great manager. I think he will go somewhere else and be very successful."

If you're out there thinking this is the end for Jose Mourinho, I'd say you were in the minority. He'll be on the blower in no time.

But where next for the manager formerly known as the Special One? 

Manchester United if Louis van Gaal goes? Or Bayern Munich if Pep Guardiola moves on? Back to Real Madrid?

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Surely not? Lies, damn lies and statistics...

Alan Vaughan: People say JM had lost the players, not the majority. But even worse Roman Abramovich has lost the fans, he will not be forgiven, ever.

Will Clarke: Very bad decision. I don't know a fan who wanted him to leave .. Players have a lot to answer for. Jose the best.

Tweet us on #bbcsportsday or text us on 81111 (UK only - and please include a name).   

"I keep hear people saying they are surprised by Mourinho's sacking. After Monday night, how can they be? 

"For me he had lost the dressing room earlier on in the season. I have sat in dressing rooms. I know what it is like when big players are upset - they don’t just turn round and say: 'Oh alright.'

"After what Mourinho said about betrayal he knew he had to go. He is not daft. He knew there would be consequences after the words he used."

Here's Martin Keown's thoughts on that relationship between manager and players. 

"Everyone talks about this family. It isn't actually. You need to be one step removed. 

"We say things within our own families that we don't get away with in a work environment. Simply, Mourinho's spoken too much to the players and it's almost imploded in front of our own eyes."

Some of this really does boil down to the misty workings of that wholly unknowable place - professional football's dressing room. 

To the outside observer it is a most mysterious thing. An entity almost - it is something you can 'lose' after all...

And what did Jose mean when he said his work had been "betrayed" by his players, after Monday's 2-1 defeat by Leicester?

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Some of the most interesting reaction I heard this afternoon came from former Arsenal defender Martin Keown.

"It would have been the making of him if he could come through this," he said. 

"I'm disappointed that he's gone because we wanted to see how he'll cope when his team is getting beaten.

"It was astonishing in that last game against Leicester to capitulate the way they did.  He's lost players and there's no trust there. Respect has gone. It's easier to change the manager than it is 22 players."

Over the next hour and a half, we'll be accompanying a special BBC Radio 5 live programme discussing Jose Mourinho's departure from Chelsea. 

Listen using the links at the top of this very page, or tune in on your radio. 

We'd love you to get involved as well. Tweet us on #bbcsportsday or text us on 81111 (UK only - and please include a name). 

We're all here because of the many, many questions this most dramatic of managerial sackings stirs up.

There is the practical: Who next? For how long? Where next? And how much?

Then there is the long game. Reputations, personalities, emotions.

There is data to be mined and views to be opined. Welcome to this Sportsday special.

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And so Chelsea bid farewell to the Special one. 

Jose Mourinho's second spell is broken.  

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And you'll be able to listen live using the links at the top of this very page.

We're going into Sportsday extra-time today...

Jose Mourinho has barely been out of the headlines all season.

From disputes with his club doctor to compelling television interviews, talk of getting an "electronic tag" and a series of increasingly damaging defeats, his demise as Chelsea manager has captivated social media.

Here, we chart the key moments in his downfall and look at how his profile on Twitter compared with those of his rival managers.

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Former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp told Sky Sports News: "I wasn't that surprised at the announcement.

"After Monday's result against Leicester, when words like 'betrayal' were used, unfortunately you felt like there was going to be an ending where the manager has to leave. You can't get rid of players obviously because they have long contracts."

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"It's always light and shade with Jose but it just feels this year there's been a lot more shade. 

"It's unprecedented what's happened to Chelsea after winning the title seven months ago. 

"A lot of players who have fallen out with him will be pleased to see the back of him."

Former Chelsea and Netherlands midfielder Boudewijn Zenden has given his views on the potential appointment of Dutchman Guus Hiddink.

“He’s of course someone who is a people manager, if you want to call it that way," Zenden told the BBC World Service. 

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"He is one of the options, a very experienced manager that has earned the stripes and probably the players to listen to. He had a tough time with the national team in Holland, that is why he is available. 

"Chelsea have to make a decision on who is best to take on the job as an interim manager because as far as I can see they want to appoint someone new in the summer.”

BBC Sport editor Dan Roan broke the news of Mourinho's sacking 31 minutes before it was confirmed by Chelsea.

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And as you can imagine, Claudio Ranieri, speaking before Jose Mourinho's sacking was announced,says he's a very happy man at Leicester.

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“When other teams play against us, maybe they think twice. For us, it’s not important what they think, but how we play," he said.

"It is important to maintain this friendly group. In every match they help each other. I love it.

"I am very glad when I see our fans happy."

Foxes boss Claudio Ranieri also reflected on his side's victory over Chelsea this week that was Jose Mourinho's last game in charge of last year's champions.

“It was a great result for our team and for the fans - not because it was Chelsea, but because it was three points," he said.

"We understood to beat the champions was not easy. Now it’s important the players clear their minds."

So Chelsea's title defence is going to be an unsuccessful one, but what about current Premier League leaders Leicester?

Well they had a press conference earlier while Jose Mourinho was getting his marching orders and here are some of the best quotes from it.  

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Starting off with some bad news for Foxes fans as boss Claudio Ranieri says Jeffrey Schlupp could be out for up to 10 weeks with a hamstring injury.

But good news immediately followed with Ranieri adding that Danny Drinkwater's hamstring injury is not serious and the midfielder (pictured) will be back soon.

Time for Roberto Martinez to be worried? Maybe so.

Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho became the fifth Premier League manager to lose his job this season:

• Dick Advocaat (Sunderland) 4 October: The Dutchman saved the Black Cats from relegation last season but left after an eight-game winless run.
• Brendan Rodgers (Liverpool) 4 October: Rodgers took the Reds to the brink of their first Premier League title in 2014 but was sacked hours after a Premier League draw against Everton.
• Tim Sherwood (Aston Villa) 25 October: Sherwood guided Villa to the 2015 FA Cup final but won only one of their 12 league games this season.
• Garry Monk (Swansea) 9 December: Led the club to a record points total last season, but a run of one win in 12 ended Monk's tenure.
• Jose Mourinho (Chelsea) 17 December: Premier League and League Cup winners last season, but nine defeats in 16 league games this campaign left them one point above the drop zone. Mourinho was a gonner.

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In the 20 minutes after the news of Mourinho's sacking there were 113,000 tweets sent about it.

Between 15:00 GMT - 16:00 GMT, 339,000 tweets were sent and by 18:00, 641, 537 posts about Jose Mourinho had been tweeted.

The term 'Jose Mourinho' has been trending in cities and countries around the world

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The term 'Jose Mourinho' has been trending in cities and countries around the world  

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Burnley midfielder Joey Barton has tweeted his thoughts on the Chelsea managerial situation.

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In every list of potential next managers there is also a speculative suggestion. So, why not, let's go for one.

Name: John Terry.

Status: Chelsea captain.

Managerial record: Unproven.

The club captain, now 35, has been reading management books for the last few years and recently had Sir Alex Ferguson's "Leading" for company on a flight back from a match. Some have argued Terry has been in charge of Chelsea for years, maybe he could be handed the opportunity to prove it.  

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Name: Diego Simeone

Status: Atletico Madrid manager

Premier League record: Unproven

The former Argentina midfielder has enjoyed a fine period as Atletico Madrid boss, breaching the two-team dominance of Barca and rivals Real with an attractive style, while beating Chelsea in the UEFA Super Cup and Champions League in the process. The Blues have looked to Atletico for players, now for a manager?

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Name: Juande Ramos

Status: Out of work

Premier League record: Sacked by Tottenham after less than a year in 2008

The former Tottenham boss would be a left-field appointment but has been mentioned often over recent days.

Has a long and well-travelled career and most recently took charge of Dnipro. Would in no way be a long-term appointment. But with Roman Abramovich in charge of Chelsea, not every decision is predictable. Remember Avram Grant?

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Name: Guus Hiddink

Status: Out of work

Premier League record: Third and an FA Cup win as interim manager (2009)

If Chelsea need a stop-gap option, they could look to someone who has done the job before. No, not Rafael Benitez, who is now Real Madrid boss, but Dutchman Hiddink.

His three-month spell from February 2009, after the departure of Luiz Felipe Scolari, saw Chelsea win the FA Cup and finish third in the Premier League.

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Name: Pep Guardiola

Status: Bayern Munich manager

Premier League record: Unproven

The former Barcelona boss was reportedly coveted by Roman Abramovich while on sabbatical before the former Spain midfielder opted for Bayern Munich.

His contract with the Bavarians ends this summer and speculation of a switch to Manchester City is growing in strength. But Chelsea may still try to tempt him. 

So who is going to replace Jose Mourinho at Chelsea? Let's profile six of the likely lads.

Name: Carlo Ancelotti

Status: Out of work

Premier League record: Chelsea 2009-11 (champions 2010)

Will Chelsea return for another man who enjoyed great success? The Italian, who won the 2010 Premier League and FA Cup double and finished second the following season before being sacked, is available after leaving Real Madrid where he won the Champions League.

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Bournemouth's Glenn Murray, who scored the winner against Chelsea on 5 December, tweets his shock at the sacking of Jose Mourinho.

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Trophies won:

• 1 x Premier League
• 1 x League Cup

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Trophies won: 

2 x Premier League

1 x FA Cup

2 x League Cup

Fancy Jose Mourinho at your club?

Peter White: Considering starting a petition for fellow United fans called 'Van Gaal out, Jose in...

Lee Parkinson: The rate we are going through managers it's only a matter of time before Mourinho arrives at Elland Road #LUFC

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has tweeted his support for his former boss.

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"There will be no shortage of offers. Real Madrid may come calling again if Rafael Benitez continues to struggle but what about Manchester United?

"It is the sort of stage he craves and if Louis van Gaal does not improve things at Old Trafford and Mourinho is still available next summer...why not?"

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"Pep Guardiola has always been the dream appointment for Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich but he looks destined for Manchester City if, as expected he leaves Bayern Munich. 

"Carlo Ancelotti is then a likely target for the Bundesliga champions so expect the name of Atletico Madrid's Diego Simeone to figure in discussions."

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"No. Chelsea's players must examine themselves closely.

"Eden Hazard and Diego Costa, the driving forces behind that title win, have been virtually non-existent and their relationship with the manager has been called into question. 

"Costa threw a bib at Mourinho when he was an unused sub at Spurs while Hazard appeared to substitute himself early in that final loss at Leicester City."

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"The oldest reason of all. Nine losses in 16 games was a decline even Mourinho could not survive - not even with the credit in the bank from last season's Premier League title.

"Chelsea's season has been chaotic from day one, when Mourinho's row with team doctor Eva Carneiro that led to her removal provided the backdrop of the rest of his stay at Stamford Bridge. The 3-0 loss at Manchester City exposed the on-field flaws and Chelsea and Mourinho have simply not recovered."    

So why have today's events unfolded? We have asked BBC Sport's chief football writer Phil McNulty for his thoughts, and this is what he has said...

Ah, nothing like a backtracking tweet from a famous football fan.

Golf superstar Rory McIlroy, who is of course a Manchester United fan, tweeted #TaxiForJose on 31 October, following Chelsea's 3-1 loss to Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.

Well McIlroy is clearly not as happy as he was with United boss Louis van Gaal as this is his tweet today...

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We asked who is next, well it is already decided, according to Wikipedia. They have gone a bit early in appointing Guus Hiddink as Jose Mourinho's replacement. 

He of course managed the club on an interim basis and won the FA Cup in 2009.

This is what it says on his Wikipedia page.

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Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola, ex-Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers, Juande Ramos, who was once at Tottenham, and former boss Guus Hiddink have all been touted as possible successors to Jose Mourinho.

A sad day for some, got to feel for them... :-(

famakin olawole‏: Wow I feel so sad, Jose sacked as Chelsea boss, you are still the special one Jose!!!!

James Shanley:#Mourinho deserved better, players have forced him to go, proving beyond all doubt they rule clubs. Im sad for football

Lucy Ferman: Sad but increasingly inevitable so right call. Lost love for him over #EvaCaneiro incident. Can we have her back now?

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Two spells in charge. Three Premier League titles. One FA Cup. Three League Cups. One Community Shield. 

Thanks for the memories, Jose.

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In what turned out to be his final Chelsea interview, an "ashamed" Jose Mourinho said his Chelsea side have "no chance" of finishing in the Premier League top four after losing 2-1 to Leicester at King Power Stadium.  

Watch the interview here

Funny how football works...

Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri was sacked by Chelsea in 2004 and Jose Mourinho was brought in to replace him.

Eleven years later, it's a defeat against Ranieri's Leicester that ends up costing Mourinho his job.

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Chelsea managers past and present are in the dug outs as the Blues slump to yet another defeat at Leicester. Claudio Ranieri, who was sacked by the Blues in 2004, shakes hands with Jose Mourinho at the end of Leicester's 2-1 win...and Mourinho disappears down the tunnel for the last time.

Chelsea sink to their eighth defeat in 15 games as Bournemouth become the first promoted side to beat the Blues at home since Charlton in April 2001.

"There is no chance that Chelsea will be fighting relegation," says Mourinho as his side are left three points above the bottom three.

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Keep sending your reaction to #bbcsportsday. Here is what some of you have been saying:

Martin McHugh‏: Bad managing should get the sack, but also players with mega salaries not giving 100% every match also the sack!

Michael Ward: Mourinho, fair weather coach. Can't accept blame when it goes wrong, quickly leads to resentment and division.

D.Tee: Mourinho's sacking. A case of player power?

More quotes from former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry. "Carlo Ancelotti would have been a great fit and a great choice so I don't know where they go from here," Henry tells Sky Sports.

"You have to be careful who is available and who will come. Is it going to be a manager who is coming in the short term or long term? You need to bring in someone who can bring back the desire and commitment to win games. Chelsea have some of the greatest players in the league.

"You can't sack the players so go for the manager. I am now thinking if I am going into the right profession? You have to have sympathy for Jose Mourinho. He put Chelsea on the map - you can take that away from him."

Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry, speaking on Sky Sports, says: "They needed a change to spark a reaction, but they have sacked the best manager in their history and the best manager in the game.

"The players should be held accountable. You cannot sack all the players so sack the manager - whether right or wrong.

"What happened in some of the games is not all down to Mourinho. There was a lack of desire and commitment.

"I kept saying Chelsea will turn it around but they didn't. I don't know if he would have turned it around but you have to be careful what you wish for. It's a sad day if you are a Chelsea fan. The media are losing a great character and hopefully he can bounce back."

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Chelsea secure a point in a 0-0 draw at Tottenham but a lack of harmony between Jose Mourinho and striker Diego Costa is evident.

Costa is left out of the side and petulantly threw his bib towards his Portuguese manager after failing to be sent on as a substitute.

"If he wants to hurt me it would not be with a bib. I have a good relationship with him," says Mourinho afterwards.

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Quote Message: Fourth position for me is not an impossible mission. If you ask me about winning the the title, I would say impossible mission. Maybe Tom Cruise can do it but it's complicated." from Jose Mourinho

Fourth position for me is not an impossible mission. If you ask me about winning the the title, I would say impossible mission. Maybe Tom Cruise can do it but it's complicated."

Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton, speaking on the BBC News channel, says: "The writing was on the wall after his interview on Monday night. He certainly hasn’t covered himself in glory this season with his behaviour.

"Previously he was perceived as intelligent, charming and witty but some of his antics this season he has really let himself down.

"There were cracks appearing when he subbed Matic and had a dressing down with Hazard. He clearly had lost the players earlier in the season. Performance wise, he must have seen things weren’t getting any better. You can’t doubt Mourinho’s coaching credentials but he has clearly lost the dressing room."

Jose Mourinho is already forgotten about as the next man is already in, according to the Telegraph...

BBC Radio presenter Danny Baker has some advice for Manchester United...

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Jose Mourinho is forced to watch his side's 1-0 defeat at Stoke from a television at the team hotel as he serves a stadium ban. 

"Jose did the pre-match talk at the hotel and that was it," says Chelsea's former Stoke keeper Asmir Begovic afterwards.

Chelsea's third successive league defeat leaves them with 11 points from 12 games.

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Jose Mourinho discovers he is to be the subject of individual legal action from former Chelsea team doctor Eva Carneiro. It means he will have to appear at an employment tribunal unless there is an out of court settlement.

Carneiro was dropped from first-team duties after Mourinho said she was"naive" for treating Eden Hazard during a draw with Swansea.

On the same day Mournho also finds out he is to serve a one-match stadium ban, as well as being hit with a £40,000 fine, for his conduct against West Ham.

Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho once called Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger "a specialist in failure".

The fans haven't forgotten that one...

Fraser Lawrence:#Mourinho has he blamed Mr Wenger yet? Now who is the specialist in failure?

Mo Shirazi‏: Sacked from the same job twice. #specialistinfailure! @ChelseaFC#JoseMourinho

mrinal‏: Hahahahha!! The one who can't last for at least three years in a club is a specialist in failure.

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More quotes from former Arsenal defender Martin Keown, who doubts whether Jose Mourinho "has the patience" to stay at any club for the long-term.

"It has imploded in front of our eyes," Keown tells BBC Radio 5 live. "It is astonishing. I saw players who were not giving everything.

"He has lost the players. There is no trust there, respect is gone. Ultimately it is easier to change a manager than 22 players."

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown is asked if Chelsea's players should be embarrassed on BBC Radio 5 live: "Embarrassed? No I don't think so. This has been an accident waiting to happen.

"Mourinho talked about betrayal this weekend. Go back to October and he was talking about rats within the camp. There have been big problems right from the start of the season.

"I take you back to the Community Shield. What about his reaction to a non-handshake from Arsene Wenger. He then threw his medal."

BBC Radio 5 live Sport has a special programme tonight from 19:00 GMT reacting to Jose Mourinho’s departure.

The panel consists of former Chelsea midfielder Andy Townsend, former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton and journalists Neil Ashton and Rob Beasley.

It is going to be well worth a listen.

Jose Mourinho gathers his staff on the Stamford Bridge pitch after a 3-1 home defeat to Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp's first league win as Reds boss.

The result leaves the champions with 11 points from 11 games.

"The fans are not stupid, I don't need to tell them anything. They know how much myself and the players are trying," says Mourinho afterwards.

"They know why they are getting bad results. The fight goes on, but sometimes there are fights very impossible to win. You go to a fight with different ammunition."

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West Ham 2-1 Chelsea...yet another defeat for the champions and it goes from bad to worse for Jose Mourinho.

The Chelsea manager, midfielder Nemanja Matic and Blues' assistant first-team coach Silvino Louro are all sent off.

"The lads are devastated. Not many words are being said at the moment," says defender Gary Cahill after the game. 

BBC Sport looks back at some of Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho's unhappier moments since he returned to Stamford Bridge, when he declared himself 'The Happy One' in June 2013.

Head here to view the video

Match of the Day pundit Alan Shearer reacts to Jose Mourinho's sacking on BBC Radio 5 live: "Once you fall out with players then it is a very difficult situation you find yourself in.

"If you fall out with two or three you can move them on. But when you go over that you're talking about half a dressing room. You can't sack all the players. Then you have a decision to make."

Mixed reaction on the news that Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has been sacked...

411 Sports Lady‏: Jose Mourinho was given plenty of time to turn things around, but unfortunately, it didn't work out for him.

Sarah Morgan: Chelsea not considered players' under performance enough but Mourinho should have lost job when cost doctor hers.

Tony Ross‏: Makes no sense to sack #Mourinho now and has been let down by the players #Guardiola must have already agreed to go to Chelsea

BBC Match of the Day commentator Conor McNamara has access to emojis, and knowledge of cheesy 1970s songs. And is not afraid to use both.

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The term 'Jose Mourinho' is trending around the world in the US, Australia, India and parts of Africa.

Since news broke of the sacking there have been over 200,000 tweets.

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Chelsea have sent out a briefing saying there will be no manager's news conference on Friday.

That's because they no longer have a manager. Jose Mourinho has been sacked, don't you know?

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Jose Mourinho says his Football Association fine is a "disgrace" after being ordered to pay £50,000. Mourinho had claimed officials were "afraid" to award his team penalties after Robert Madley denied Chelsea a spot-kick in a 3-1 loss to Southampton.

"I'm happy I don't have an electronic tag," he added. "£50,000 is a disgrace. The possibility of getting a stadium ban is astonishing."

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Quote Message: I want to make it clear. One, I don't run away. Two, if the club want to sack me they have to sack me because I am not running away from my responsibilities or my team." from Jose Mourinho after 3-1 home defeat to Southampton

I want to make it clear. One, I don't run away. Two, if the club want to sack me they have to sack me because I am not running away from my responsibilities or my team."

So were Chelsea right to sack Jose Mourinho? Now is the time for you to tell us.

We have a vote running, it is a simple yes or no question whether Chelsea have made the right decision.

The vote closes at 19:30 GMT.

Former Chelsea defender Graham Roberts reacts to the sacking of Jose Mourinho on BBC Radio 5 live: "He came in and said he was the 'Special One' but he's not the 'Special One' no more. He will be thinking 90% of those players have let him down.

"I think as Pep Guardiola is saying he is leaving maybe Roman Abramovich has thought we'd try our hardest to get him in. He wants to come to London, that's the rumour going around."

It is unlikely Jose Mourinho will be out of management for long, given his record of success at Chelsea and other top European clubs.

He guided Porto and Inter Milan to Champions League glory in 2004 and 2010 respectively, then led Real Madrid to the Spanish La Liga title in 2012.

At 52, he is still some way from retirement age, but he has expressed a wish to coach the English and Portuguese national sides at some stage in his career.

Will that make his candidature less appealing to the kind of club he is used to managing, such as German giants Bayern Munich, rising French stars Paris St-Germain or Premier League duo Manchester United or Manchester City?

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Porto was the club where Jose Mourinho made his name - most notably by lifting the Champions League title with the Portuguese side in 2004.

But he came a cropper on his old stomping ground as Porto won 2-1 and the Blues slipped to third in their Champions League group.

Chelsea had suffered three defeats in the first five league games by the time they hosted Arsenal. 

Defender Kurt Zouma - preferred to dropped captain John Terry - headed the opening goal after 53 minutes and Chelsea secured only their second win in six Premier League games when Eden Hazard's shot flew in off Calum Chambers late on.  

Yet in a fiery match, Arsenal defender Gabriel was sent off seconds before half-time for kicking out at Diego Costa. Mourinho later said that striker Diego Costa was "man of the match".

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Jose Mourinho's sacking "will tarnish him", says Match of the Day pundit Alan Shearer.

"Nothing surprises me with football managers nowadays," Shearer tells BBC Radio 5 live.

"I have never known a capitulation like it from a football club. I have never known players perform like they did in a season and then be so bad now. It is unbelievable. 

"It will without doubt hurt him. He tried leaving players out that didn't work. He tried criticising players in public, that didn't work. He tried protecting players, that didn't work. Whatever he has done it just has not worked. No one could have predicted this."

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Official confirmation now from Chelsea who say they and manager Jose Mourinho have parted company by mutual consent.

"The club wishes to make clear Jose leaves us on good terms and will always remain a much-loved, respected and significant figure at Chelsea," says a club statement. 

"His legacy at Stamford Bridge and in England has long been guaranteed and he will always be warmly welcomed back to the club.

"The club’s focus is now on ensuring our talented squad reaches its potential.

"There will be no further comment until a new appointment is made."

By the time Chelsea travelled to Merseyside to face Everton on 12 September, Jose Mourinho's side had four points from the first four games.

Steven Naismith scored a hat-trick as Everton won 3-1 to leave the champions languishing 16th in the table.

Former Blackburn striker Chris Sutton on Final Score said: "This is the first time in his Chelsea career that Jose Mourinho has been under real, real pressure."

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Crystal Palace on the 29 August was Jose Mourinho's 100th Premier League home game - and only his second defeat in that run.

Jose Mourinho's judgement seemed to have been validated when Radamel Falcao - a summer gamble in the transfer market - headed in a 79th minute equaliser.

But Joel Ward nodded an even later winner and Falcao has not scored since. 

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Chelsea were already playing catch-up in the table when they travelled to Manchester City on the second weekend of the Premier League season.

It was a day to forget for the champions as they were comfortably beaten 3-0 and captain John Terry was substituted at half-time.

Chelsea had one point from their first two games.

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Down to 10 men and being held 2-2 by Swansea at home on the opening weekend of the season, last year's star player Eden Hazard goes down injured for Chelsea.

Chelsea's medical staff - club doctor Eva Carneiro and head physio Jon Fearn - run on immediately to treat the Belgian.

Mourinho says after the match that they were "impulsive and naive" and suggested they did not understand the game.

Carneiro left the club in the wake of the manager's criticism and, although the FA cleared Mourinho of making discriminatory remarks to her, she is making a constructive dismissal claim.

Former England captain and current BBC Match of the Day pundit Alan Shearer has given his view on Chelsea's sacking of Jose Mourinho.

"Prior to this season, whoever you spoke to, whether it was John Terry or Frank Lampard, they spoke in glowing terms of their manager," says Shearer. 

"But for the players to have performed the way they have for him this season shows something drastic has happened at Chelsea this summer. That will come out, it often does.

"You cannot have players play so well last season and then like they have done. The likes of Eden Hazard wouldn't get in a second division side this season."

Hardik Vishna: What's the chance of Jose taking over at Man Utd by January and winning the league?

James Wall: Chelsea should go for Tony Pulis - relegation survival specialist.

Ben Rabinovich: The Unemployed One.

Tweet us using #BBCSportsday, or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

• Three Premier League titles, two of those in his first spell between 2004 and 2007
• FA Cup, in 2007
• League Cup three times - in 2005, 2007 and 2015

Jose Mourinho leaves Chelsea just a point off the relegation zone and 20 points behind Leicester.

Champions League qualification via one of the top four spots in the Premier League looks almost impossible.

However, the Blues are through to the last 16 of European football's biggest club competition, where they will face French champions Paris St-Germain in February and March.

Mourinho only signed a new four-year contract on 7 August and is Chelsea's most successful manager.

Former Chelsea and England defender Graham Roberts has just been talking on BBC Radio 5 live about the Blues' decision to sack Jose Mourinho.

"I don't think they can play any worse, they have been absolutely diabolical this year," says Roberts.

"Some of the players need to look at their own stature at the club. They have let the club down, the supporters down. Some of them came back overweight for pre-season. That's not how professional footballers do it these days."

Wow. What a story. Please send us your views on the sacking of Jose Mourinho to #bbcsportsday.

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Just seven short months ago, Chelsea were celebrating their fourth Premier League title - three of which had been brought to the club across Mourinho's two spells in charge.

The Blues wrapped up the title with three games to spare as they beat Crystal Palace 1-0 at home on 2 May.

They finished the season eight points clear of second-placed Manchester City.

"Jose Mourinho had a meeting with the club a few minutes ago when he was told the end had come. He has been let go in his second stint and won't be paid the £40m compensation speculated. My understanding is that he has been paid until the end of this season, what was left of the £12m.

"While he has undeniably enjoyed so much success around Europe, he has failed to manage to secure a lasting legacy and enjoy success over a prolonged period of time. 

"Chelsea faced a huge decision and Roman Abramovich had to make it. Reports of Juande Ramos have been a surprise and former manager Guus Hiddink has been linked too. There hasn't been an obvious choice."

BIG NEWS coming out this afternoon. Chelsea have dismissed manager Jose Mourinho.

More on that breaking story coming up. We will have all the developments as they happen and expert analysis aplenty.

If you want to read the breaking news story as it evolves, click here.

Leicester could be five points clear at the top of the Premier League if they win at Everton as Arsenal and Manchester City do not play until Monday.

The Foxes have lost just twice in the league since April and saw of champions Chelsea on Monday.

"We understood to beat the champions was not easy," Ranieri adds. "Now it’s important the players clear their minds.

"When other teams play against us, maybe they think twice. For us, it’s not important what they think, but how we play."

Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri starts his news conference with some mixed injury news.

Danny Drinkwater left the field injured in their win over Chelsea but should miss just one game it seems. Bad news for defender Jeffrey Schlupp who could miss 10 weeks with a hamstring injury.

And so to the league leaders, Leicester City. 

Manager Claudio Ranieri is just addressing the media. This should be fun...

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Harry Kane has been sounded out about a possible transfer to Inter Milan, reports the London Evening Standard.

The 22-year-old's purchase would be funded through player sales made by Roberto Mancini's side.

However, the paper adds Spurs have no desire to let the England international leave.

Southampton are 12th in the Premier League, eight points off the top four, but seven points above the relegation zone.

"It's an open league because Leicester are at the top with teams struggling," says Saints boss Ronald Koeman. "If you win you move up maybe five or six positions. I think it's more close than ever this Premier League so far.

"Leicester have shown why you can beat big teams - spirit, togetherness, quality, system, belief. It's harder for the big ones to get 90 or 95 points, that's impossible this season."

The points tally needed to escape relegation from the Premier League will be lower this year than in previous years, according to Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce.

"You have got to get 38 or more points to be sure of staying in the league," he said.

"We have got to push on and try to take as many points from this group of fixtures."

The Black Cats come up against Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool in their next three games. #Tough

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Ronald Koeman confirms goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg is not available for the weekend as he has still not recovered from a toe complaint while striker Graziano Pelle is back having overcome a knee injury.

Southampton go into the match in poor form but a win could leave them just two points behind fifth-placed Tottenham who have lost just once in 10 outings.

Southampton have lost four of their last five games, drawing the other, but is boss Ronald Koeman feeling the pressure?

Well, here is the man in question. He says: "There is always pressure and I'm used to that.

"The expectations for Southampton are much higher than last year. Our target is very high. If we cannot reach that at the moment, you are always under pressure."

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman starts off his news conference by talking about his side's 1-0 loss at Crystal Palace last week.

"It was a disappointing result and it gives always a little bit more pressure," says Koeman.

"We have had good training sessions but everybody needs to realise that we have to improve. There may be a lack of confidence but still we can play good football. The productivity is not good enough."

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Look who joins us now...

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Second-bottom Sunderland will be looking to take advantage of Chelsea's precarious league position.

"Our job on Saturday is to try and continue that cloud Chelsea are under," said boss Sam Allardyce. "We have to play our best on Saturday irrespective of the form Chelsea have been in.

"While we have won three games we have failed to get the odd draw here and there."

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Reading chairman John Madejski says: "I'm proud we've got Brian back. It's the best Christmas present any of us could have had."

McDermott succeeds Steve Clarke and returns to the club he managed between 2009 and 2013.

The Royals are 13th in the Championship.

Earlier we showed you some of Leicester's players in fancy dress. It seems it's Christmas Day for the players at training today.

Midfielder Andy King posts on Instagram: "Xmas dinner after training with the boys."

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Not too many spuds lads, Everton away on Saturday. We look forward to hearing from your manager in his news conference at around 14:30 GMT.

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Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has been given plenty of stick recently and now former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has stuck the boot in.

"This is the worst Manchester United team I have seen during my time in football," Redknapp said in his Evening Standard column.

"I know some of the players are young and the squad is decimated by injury but this is still Man United. Some of those players should be nowhere near their first team."

Read the full piece here

"With heavy storms interrupting play throughout the afternoon, play has been abandoned on the final day of England’s warm-up match against a South African Invitational XI in Potchefstroom.

"The home side were 5-0 in their second innings, 467 runs behind England who this morning were bowled out for 190."

Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew is aiming high...

"Stoke will be a very attacking team, with a lot of flair. They will need to worry about us though," said Pardew. "There isn't much between us and them - this will be a key fixture for us to secure sixth.

"In 2016, if we match the start of this season I'll be a very happy man."

Reports earlier in the day suggested that Crystal Palace are close to being taken over by a US consortium in a £100m deal.

Does manager Alan Pardew know anything about this?

"I have met the potential investors, they have a passion for this football club that reflects mine and that of chairman Steve Parish," he said.

"The backing does mean improvements to Selhurst Park which will be welcomed, that's Steve's job. Mine is to look after this team."

What about signings when the transfer window opens?

"I don't think we'll be doing too much business in January, maybe a few on loan. Our key players won't be going anywhere."   

England captaincy contender Dylan Hartley is not expected to return for Northampton Saints' European Champions Cup tie against Racing Metro on Friday.

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The hooker, a leading candidate to replace Chris Robshaw as captain under new head coach Eddie Jones, is still suffering symptoms from a concussion sustained against Saracens last month.

Centre George Pisi and flanker Jon Fisher are both available again.

Dan Carter led Racing to a resounding 33-3 victory over Saints last weekend.

Stewart Corrall: Jimmy Droid Hasselbaink.

Stephen MCP Brogarth: In goal it would have to be Jar Jar Nigel Spinks.

Ed Mainwaring-Burton: Brazilian Star Wars Team - Artur D2, Qui-Gon JuanFernando Calrissian, Lucio Skywalker & Boba Fred.

Stu Lewis: Carlos Chew-Bacca. Flew on the Millennium Falcao with Juan Solo-Cuadrado. Ahem.

Ben Rabinovich: Edwin Van Death Star - you don't want to have him in front of goal/Alderaan.

Can you beat Edwin van Death Star? The bar has been set high. If you can do better, then tweet us using #BBCSportsday.

Undefeated Welsh boxer Liam Williams says he has no concerns about going straight back into a title fight after a year out with a hand injury.

The 23-year-old will face Kris Carslow in Manchester on Saturday for the vacant British super-welterweight belt.

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Williams has not fought since November 2014, but insists he is ready to return against a quality opponent.

"I was offered a couple of warm-up fights and to be honest I didn't see the point," he said.

Harlequins centre George Lowe has signed a new contract with the Premiership club.

The 26-year-old has scored 27 tries in 128 appearances for Quins, despite spending over a year out with a serious neck injury he suffered in 2013.

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"My decision to stay was a quick and easy one," he told the club website.

"The club and its supporters really helped me during my long-term injury and it's something I'm truly grateful for. I want to repay the faith."

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On this day in 1810 championship belts were introduced in boxing when bare-knuckle fighter Tom Cribb was given one after beating Tom Molineaux at Copthall Common.

It's not the only sporting moment of significance on 17 December. On this day in 2006, England surrendered the Ashes as they lost the third Test in Perth by 206 runs.

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Liverpool are closing in on their first signing under Jurgen Klopp, as the deal for Red Star Belgrade midfielder Marko Grujic edges nearer, reports the Liverpool Echo.

The paper claims Klopp has got personally involved in the transfer and his impact has swayed the 19-year-old's decision, with Inter Milan also interested.

Clement tells the media he has been thinking of changing Derby County's system for their fixture with Ipswich.

"Ipswich normally go 4-4-2, they're maybe the most direct team in the Championship. It'll be tough," he says.  

Leon Haslam will return to British Superbike racing for the 2016 season.

The 32-year-old finished fourth in the World Superbike standings in 2015, but left the Red Devils Aprilia team at the end of the season.

Multiple World and British Superbike race-winner Haslam was British SB runner-up in 2006 and 2008 and second in the 2010 World SB series.

"I have unfinished business," said the Derbyshire rider, who will be riding for the JG Speedfit Kawasaki team.

We have a winner!

BBCCopyright: BBC

Do Premier League manager's send Christmas cards to each other? If so, what message do they write inside them?

Under fire Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho reveals all.

Watch the clip here

Watch The Clare Balding Show on Friday at 22:00 GMT on BBC Two.  

Luis Suarez hits a hat-trick in the absence of injured team-mates Lionel Messi and Neymar to book Barcelona's place in the 2015 Fifa Club World Cup final.

Head here for all the reaction

Today's question is: Who are the five F1 drivers to have won Sports Personality of the Year?

Answers will be revealed later this afternoon. No cheating!

Liverpool Ladies have signed Wales captain Sophie Ingle for the upcoming Women's Super League season.

The 24-year-old midfielder has spent the last two seasons with Bristol Academy having previously played for Chelsea Ladies and Cardiff City Ladies.

Liverpool FCCopyright: Liverpool FC

She has joined the Reds over other offers from WSL teams.

"Liverpool is a massive club and once I was aware of their interest there was only one team I wanted to sign for," she said.

It seems Tottenham have taken on the Star Wars team we are asking you for. Some of your suggestions are terrific. Keep them coming to #bbcsportsday. 

We're confident we can put a team together to take on Spurs' five-a-side offering.

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Barcelona look like they will meet River Plate in the Club World Cup final.

Some more of your suggestions for our Star Wars XI.

Jamie Matthews: Gordon Binks in goal, Mesut C3POzil, Jar Jar Toure, Xavi the hutt.

Adam Cornish: Sylvain Ewocks-Blake.

Adam Lacey: Ewok Origi.

Ryan Rodwell: Jabba De Bruyne; (Scott) Dann Solo; Han Rojo; Admiral Ozil; Admiral Payet; Ayew-D2; Yaya Organa; Princess Pelleia...

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Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has grabbed his hat-trick from the penalty spot and the La Liga side all-but book their place in the final of the World Club Cup.

Follow live text commentary of the match here

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Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy says the club are "very proud" to be part of progress in the area after plans for a new ground were given the go ahead by the council.

Spurs' new home will host some NFL matches and at 61,000 capacity, it will hold fractionally more fans than Arsenal's Emirates Stadium and plans include room for a cinema and new homes.

The club hope to be playing at the new venue by the 2018-19 season.

Dylan Hartley is close to being named England captain, succeeding Chris Robshaw.

The 29-year-old has a lengthy disciplinary record but has captained Northampton in the past.

It seems he gets Will Carling's vote. For the latest on the story, click here.

Some early contenders for our Star Wars XI. Make us laugh and you're on this page.

Nathan Arnold: R2-Michu.

Dan j pinchy: Darth Raul.

Tom Lyons: Yoda Cruyff or Millennium Falcao.

Mohammed Danyal: May the Forssell be with you.

Riaz Rob: Chewbacary Sagna.

Good work. Keep them coming in to us, using #BBCSportsday on Twitter.

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Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has bagged his second of the game from Andres Iniesta's stunning pass. The Uruguayan took the ball on his chest before volleying in. Game over?

Follow live text commentary of the match here

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Russia president Vladimir Putin says suspended Fifa president Sepp Blatter, embroiled in a string of corruption scandals, should be given the Nobel Peace Prize.

"That is someone who should be given the Nobel Peace Prize," Putin said of the Fifa boss who is facing corruption allegations over his management of the world footballing body.

"His contribution to the global humanitarian sphere is colossal."

Fifa are under investigation by both Swiss and US authorities.

The Swiss Justice Ministry says it has frozen millions of Swiss francs related to world soccer body FIFA.

"U.S. authorities asked for documents related to 50 accounts at different banks, through which corruption money is supposed to have transited," ministry spokesman Folco Galli said in a statement.

He said a "high double-digit million amount" had been frozen following the U.S. query. 

Fifa is under investigation by both US and Swiss authorities for corruption.

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Franck Ribery's thigh injury is worse than first thought and the Bayern Munich star is set to miss the next eight weeks, according to German magazine Kicker.

The 32-year-old tore his thigh muscle in Bayern's Champions League game at Dinamo Zagreb last week, on just his second appearance after nearly nine months out with an ankle injury. 

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“Seven wickets fell before lunch for just 91 runs, with England failing to capitalise on the opportunity to get as much practice as possible out in the middle. 

"The one positive to be taken – namely that England’s bowlers would get extra practice – has been negated by a magnificent storm rolling into Potchefstroom. 

"The thunder and lightning has seen the players heading off to be replaced by some enormous green tarpaulins and we don’t expect play for a while.

"The Invitational XI are 5-0 in their second innings, 467 runs behind England."

Right, 11:20 on a Thursday so it must be time for some puns.

Unless you have been living in a galaxy far, far away you are probably aware that today sees the latest Star Wars film (Star Wars: The Force Awakens) hit the cinemas.

So send us your Star Wars XI. So stuff like Chew-Beckenbauer. Only better.

Get involved on Twitter using #BBCSportsday. 

Remember, we are also still asking if Chelsea are in a relegation battle and who is getting relegated and why.

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La Liga side Barcelona have taken the lead against Chinese side Guangzhou Evergrande in the semi-final of the World Club Cup, as they look to win their fifth trophy of the year.

Striker Luis Suarez is that man who has broken the deadlock, tucking in from close range.

Follow live text coverage of the match here.

A final bit of chat from Aston Villa boss Remi Garde on whether the club can lift themselves out of the relegation zone.

"It is unbelievable for the fans and everyone following the league for many years," said the Frenchman. "If it happens, then everybody stops and says well done? No, you still have to work and build again. 

"It would be a huge disappointment but we are still not there. We can switch the way things are going at the moment."

Today we are asking you if Chelsea will be relegated this season? If not, who will?

Smiffy1875: Dead certs for relegation are villa! With Sunderland an Norwich about 10 points infront of them!

Michael Wisdom: Chelsea will not be in the relegation zone next month.

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England XI 470/7d & 190 SAf Invit XI 188 & 5/0

England's warm-up match against a South Africa XI has been halted due to lightning.

The tourists - who play their first Test against South Africa on 26 December - lost seven wickets today with Joe Root top scoring on 39.

But their first innings puts them well in charge, 467 runs ahead. Today is the final day's play.

Remember how Paul Scholes never said a word during his career and after retiring can't keep his mouth shut?

Well, United States women's player Abby Wambach has had her say after calling it a day on Thursday. The record-breaking striker scored 184 goals in 255 matches.

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"I would definitely fire Jurgen. The way that he has brought in a bunch of these foreign guys is not something I believe in wholeheartedly," she said.

"He hasn't really focused, I feel, enough attention on the youth programmes."  

Some media outlets have reported a deal being done for a large portion of Crystal Palace to be sold to American investors but BBC Radio 5 live's chief football reporter Ian Dennis says otherwise.

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It's not really a fair fight. One man against a whole team, but I fancy Gerard Pique's chances.

The Barcelona defender's feud with his club's La Liga rivals Real Madrid shows no signs of ending after more criticism came his way.

How did the war of words start? What been the latest developments?

Click here to read the piece

Russian-born Australian tennis player Arina Rodionova faces the biggest day of her life with a twist on Saturday as she attempts to win a wildcard to the Australian Open in the morning before tying the knot in the afternoon.

Rodionova has reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open play-offs which could see her win a spot in the main draw for January's first Grand Slam of the year.

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The 26-year-old had been scheduled to play Storm Sanders in the afternoon, which clashed with her wedding to Australian Rules football player Ty Vickery at 16:00 local time.

But tournament organisers and her opponent have agreed to move the match to the morning.

That's nice of them.

Barcelona are seeking a record third Club World Cup title but have to negotiate China's Guangzhou Evergrande in the semi-final. 

The game is underway in Japan right now and you can follow it live by clicking here.

"Normal Thursday morning at the Leicester training ground can you guess who it is?" tweets Leicester defender Richie De Laet.

It seems the Premier League's top side are having some fun. Do you know who Batman and Robin are?

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Richie de LaetCopyright: Richie de Laet

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Today we are asking you if Chelsea are in a relegation battle? Tweet us on #bbcsportsday.

Angela Jariwala: Mourinho must stay. Underperforming players need to search their souls and decide to up their game or move on.

Mharab_C: Chelsea are not in the relegation battle. "Battle" implies that they are fighting to survive. No evidence of that thus far.

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Interestingly, the German media are now backing up what was said in Spanish publications on Wednesday - that is that Pep Guardiola will tell Bayern Munich he wants to leave the club.

The Spaniard's contract expires in June and he has said he will clear up his future this side of Christmas.

German daily Bild says he informed the club he intends to leave "last week", adding "everything points to his leaving."

In UK papers on Thursday, Guardiola was linked with Manchester City and Chelsea.

Corriere dello SportCopyright: Corriere dello Sport

In Italy, Corriere dello Sport leads on Coppa Italia action after Juventus thrashed Torino 4-0 on Wednesday night.

The Old Lady will meet either Lazio or Udinese in the last eight. Napoli also won through and will meet Inter Milan in a juicy tie but Fiorentina - second in Serie A - lost 1-0 on aggregate to 19th-placed Carpi.

In the shock of the night, Roma were beaten on penalties by Serie B side Spezia.

Aston Villa face a crucial period coming up against Newcastle, West Ham, Norwich and Sunderland in their forthcoming games.

"The next four games will be crucial. Let's see what happens," said Remi Garde. "I see players who are totally committed."

And any injuries?

"Captain Micah Richards is still struggling with his knee. We will see at the end of the week."

Bottom of the table, no victory since the opening day of the season, so what do Aston Villa do from here?

"We need goals and points. We have chances but now we need to be more efficient," said boss Remi Garde.

"We are totally focused on the next four games. I still believe strongly we can switch the way things are going at the moment.

"We concede too many goals but we are not conceding by four or five goals."  

So we have heard from Arsene Wenger who insists that Chelsea are not in a relegation battle? Do you agree with the Gunners boss?

So time for your predictions. Are Chelsea in a relegation battle?Who will be relegated from the Premier League, and why? Don't forget to include your reasons why or why not.

Contact us on Twitter using the hashtag #BBCSportsday or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Spanish sports paper AS leads on the results of a vote in which their readers overwhelmingly want Zinedine Zidane to manage the club.

Current boss Rafa Benitez is under increasing pressure and only got 13% of votes. Victor Fernandez - heavily involved with the club's youth setup - got 15% and Zidane a whopping 72%.

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Barca kick off against Guangzhou Evergrande at 10:30 GMT. BBC Sport will run a live text on the Club World Cup semi-final.

A nice end to Arsene Wenger's news conference as he is told Tottenham have been given permission for a 61,000-seat stadium which will hold fractionally more than the Emirates.

"Are you surprised?" says Wenger.

Asked if he will put more seats in at the Emirates he replies: "I will try."

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England XI 470-7 dec and 178-8, South Africa Invitational XI 188

“A disappointing morning for England so far, who’ve lost five wickets having put on just 62 runs. A spell of eight balls yielded three victims for just one run as Ballance, Bairstow and Root were dismissed cheaply.

"Woakes and Broad then only managed seven between them before too having to make their way back to the pavilion having played loose strokes.

"A combination of poor shot selection and decent bowling has been responsible, but considering the standard of opposition England will be frustrated not to have made more of their chance to get time in the middle.”

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Asked about Arsenal's Champions League draw to face Barcelona in February Arsene Wenger says his side are "more mature" than when the Catalan club knocked them out in 2010 and 2011. 

"We played against Barcelona with top teams but were very inexperienced and very young," says Wenger.

"It was always very tight. We were sometimes unlucky as well. I do not forget that, we have the chance to put things right and I will focus on that."

Arsenal are second in the Premier League and play a Manchester City side that are third on Monday. But is Wenger happy with the squad he has got? For once, maybe not, although he is full of praise for midfielder Mesut Ozil.

"We are open minded and not the only ones that can decide on the speed of transfers," says Wenger. "We have to adapt to availabilities but we are open to do something because we are short.

"Ozil is the main provider in the team and the league, 13 assists. Players who can make you score are very difficult to find and have something special.

"But people forget that he is an exceptional fighter as he runs much more and has added runs into the box now. He has become an absolutely unbelievable player."

ArsenalCopyright: Arsenal

Some more from Gunners boss Arsene Wenger. 

He says: "I have always taken Leicester seriously but when we won 5-2 over there no one took our performance that seriously."

On whether Chelsea, 16th in the Premier League, will be involved in a relegation battle, Wenger replies: "No, because of the quality of their team. If you ask me objectively I say no chance. They are going through a difficult spell but they are not in a relegation battle."

And finally, what about the future of Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho then? Will he stay in his job?

"It is the nature of the game and how difficult it is," said Everton boss Roberto Martinez.

"Even when you are the best in the business, - Mourinho's record speaks for itself - football can be difficult when results go against you. It is hard to pick up. You can't relax, you have to be at the top of your performance."

Arsene Wenger kicks off his news conference by saying forward Alexis Sanchez could be fit for their visit of Manchester City on Monday.

The Frenchman says: "A slight chance for Sanchez to be in the game. He is running."

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has some nice words to say for Saturday's opponents...

"Leicester deserve to be top of the league and are a team who have been very dynamic," says Martinez. "They have goals but also the spirit and togetherness. Claudio Ranieri deserves all the credit for developing the belief so we are facing a side that are top and we have to be at our best.

"Of course Leicester are genuine title contenders - they have been so competitive in every game. I have seen a real change, the first few games they were just seeing how they could compete and now they come out knowing they can win games. They are capable of achieving anything this season."

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Aston Villa could spend in the January transfer window if new manager Remi Garde wishes.

Villa are marooned at the bottom of the Premier League on just six points, eight adrift of Sunderland in 17th.

"If Remi Garde decides when it comes to January that there are things he wants to do in terms of incomings and outgoings, that will be something he can recommend and have the ability to do,"  the club's chief executive Tom Fox tells BBC Sport.

We will hear from the Villa manager in the next hour.

Everton have drawn four of their last five league games and lie in 10th position, 12 points behind leaders Leicester City.

So how does Toffees boss Roberto Martinez assess his side's form? He says: "As disappointed as we are in the amount of points we have dropped in the last few games, we have seen fantastic signs in the attacking play.

"Now is a period where we need the support of the fans and everyone to develop. If we do that, then we will get the points we deserve. That is fantastic for us and our performances have been very consistent."

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Everton striker Romelu Lukaku has been in excellent form this season and has scored in six straight games. But will he leave if a bid comes in?

"I understand it is part of the transfer period and will become a fresh topic," said boss Roberto Martinez. "Our position is clear, we won't lose any of the top performers we have this season. January is an opportunity to see if we can bring anyone in.

"It is not the right time to bring players in who can help you in a major way, it is about filling the gaps but the squad that we have is strong in numbers and we want to keep it together."

Everton boss Roberto Martinez opens by talking about the injury situation at the club.

"Midfielder James McCarthy will be assessed before the game against the Premier League leaders and will return for the festive period," said the Spaniard.

Defender John Stones is fine after injuring his ankle but has had "no effects" since the Norwich game last weekend.

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Does Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul understand how brutal and physically demanding an experience Christmas shopping can be? Put your feet up Tim...

Saturday's WBO middleweight title encounter at the MEN Arena will see two Irish travelers meet in a world title contest for the first time.

Champion Andy Lee tells BBC Radio 5 live he always knew there was a chance he would meet Billy Joe Saunders, adding their travelling roots adds an "extra sub-plot" to the contest.

He adds: "People who know will say Billy Joe is a better boxer and I'm a better puncher. For me, I'd like to make the point of boxing him, showing my class and that I can box also." 

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Andy Lee has just been speaking on BBC Radio 5 live ahead of his WBO middleweight defence against Billy Joe Saunders in Manchester on Saturday.

Saunders was supposed to join him in studio but did not make it.

Lee tells 5 live Breakfast: "It's always quite awkward sitting in the room with someone and knowing you will have to fight them. I'm actually quite pleased he is not here.

"When you look at each other you can't really tell much. It's pantomime really. All this stuff is to promote the fight but when the bell goes we will take care of business."

BBCCopyright: BBC

"Arsene Wenger described last week as 'perfect'. But after Olympiakos and Aston Villa, came a Champions League draw against Barcelona and now a Monday night home game with Manchester City.

"Will Wenger have any of his long term injuries back and does he see City as Arsenal's biggest title rivals?"

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"Whatever I said, whatever I did I didn't mean it, I just want you back for good."

Take That's hit could provide the soundtrack at the Madejski Stadium today.

The Royals call a news conference for 14:00 GMT amid reports Brian McDermott is set to return as manager.

If you lived in Japan and bought tickets for Barcelona's Club World Cup semi-final to watch the great man, you would probably be pretty gutted now...

Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo lead with a preview of this morning's Club World Cup semi-final between Barcelona and China's Guangzhou Evergrande.

They kick off at around 10:30 GMT. The winners meet River Plate in the final.

Mundo DeportivoCopyright: Mundo Deportivo

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Joe Root and Gary Ballance are currently at the crease as England continue to dominate their warm-up match against a South Africa XI.

Root is on 38, Ballance 25, as the tourists build their lead on the final day of the three-day match.

England are currently 135-3 having declared on 470 in their first innings and bowled their hosts out for 188. By my maths that's a lead of 417.

The first of four Tests starts against South Africa on Boxing Day.

The IndependentCopyright: The Independent

The Independent lead with an image of Dylan Hartley being shown a yellow card. The Northampton hooker is set to replace Chris Robshaw as England captain.

New head coach Eddie Jones is thought to want a more confrontational leader and though Hartley has led his club side to the Premiership title, the 29-year-old has been banned for a total of 54 weeks during his career.

BBC Radio 5 liveCopyright: BBC Radio 5 live

"I actually feel sorry for Mourinho".

Those were the words Burnley midfielder Joey Barton used on BBC Radio 5 live on Wednesday. We will bring you some interesting views from that show shortly but if you cannot wait, listen to the podcast by clicking here.

Daily TelegraphCopyright: Daily Telegraph

Jose Mourinho said he felt "betrayed" by his players after defeat by Leicester on Monday and The Daily Telegraph lead on comments the Chelsea boss has now made about his squad on the club's TV channel.

He said: "Some of them need to rethink the way they live Chelsea, they live football, they live their job. I feel frustrated with some players and I feel that some others give absolutely everything."  

Interestingly, the paper does not say the Blues want Pep Guardiola as a long-term replacement but Atletico Madrid's Diego Simeone.

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So what have we got in store for you today?

Premier League news conferences ahead of the weekend fixtures get under way at around 09:00 GMT. First up are Arsenal and Everton, with the likes of Sunderland, Southampton and the soon-to-be champions Leicester City to follow.

We will hear from boxers Billy Joe Saunders and Andy Lee before their world title fight on Saturday. There's also Barcelona in action at 10:30 GMT and of course we will bring you everything else that the sporting world throws up. I dare say Jose Mourinho will feature a bit.

Daily ExpressCopyright: Daily Express

But the Daily Express claims Jose Mourinho is safe in his job as long as he does not lose against Sunderland on Saturday.

The paper claims a meeting between owner Roman Abramovich and the Chelsea board was only used by the Russian to gauge the mood at the club but adds that a loss to the Black Cats would make Mourinho's position "untenable".

The SunCopyright: The Sun

But maybe Pep Guardiola's move to Manchester City this summer is not cut and dry. Could Chelsea be set to gate crash the party?

Sportsday brought you news on their manager Jose Mourinho yesterday when we revealed talks had taken place over his future. The Sun claims Guus Hiddink is the front runner to replace him until the end of the season, with Pep the long-term chosen one.

MirrorCopyright: Mirror

In the week where a Briton took one step into space, it may not be quite as sensational but as today's Daily Mirror says, Manchester City are one step closer to Pep Guardiola.

The Bayern Munich boss dominates back pages, as you're about to see.

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Like your favourite soap opera on Christmas Day, sport is throwing up tales of joy and woe at this festive time.

While one of football's greatest is probably covering his eyes and wondering when this nightmare will end, one of rugby's naughty boys is getting an unexpected present. 

More on those two later, plus seven Premier League news conferences, the latest as Barcelona play in the Club World Cup and plenty more. Ho Ho Ho.