Sportsday - rolling news

Alastair Cook, who was appointed to lead the England one-day side in 2011, has averaged only 27.52 in his last 20 one-dayers.

During the recent 5-2 series defeat in Sri Lanka, Cook insisted he would not resign, but a selectors' meeting on Friday took the decision for him.

Morgan began his career with Ireland and has played 107 ODIs for England but he is in a similarly poor run of form, averaging only 25.45 in his last 23 matches.

The tri-series begins on 16 January with the World Cup beginning on 14 February.

West Ham midfielder Mark Noble will miss Saturday's game against Leicester because of an Achilles problem but he could return on Boxing Day.

Manager Sam Allardyce has otherwise reported no fresh injury concerns.

David Nugent could return for Leicester after missing last week's defeat by Manchester City with a calf injury.

Full-back Ritchie de Laet should also be available after illness but Kasper Schmeichel and Matthew Upson remain sidelined.

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Eden Hazard is set to sign a new contract with Chelsea and could go on to become one of the club's greatest players, says manager Jose Mourinho.

The 23-year-old Belgian will reportedly sign a five-year contract worth around £200,000-a-week.

"He will [sign]," said Mourinho. "My club always told me that the situation would finish with a new contract, so I was never worried about that.

"I don't know players who are considered legends in clubs without winning titles, so he has to do that but the potential, I think, everybody knows."

Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor may be involved following compassionate leave, although he was not considered for selection in midweek.

Kyle Naughton's return to the squad on Wednesday means Spurs have no other injury worries.

Burnley full-back Ben Mee has recovered from illness, but Michael Duff remains sidelined with a calf injury.

Forward Sam Vokes is close to a return from a serious knee injury but he is unlikely to be involved this weekend.

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Southampton's resources will be stretched on Saturday with Morgan Schneiderlin, Victor Wanyama and Florin Gardos all suspended against Everton.

Dusan Tadic and Jake Hesketh have joined a long injury list, while Steven Davis and Graziano Pelle are both doubts for the match.

Everton pair Kevin Mirallas and Leon Osman are almost certainly out with ankle injuries.

Darron Gibson (knee) and James McCarthy (hamstring) will have fitness tests.

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Hull have problems in midfield as Tom Huddlestone begins a four-game suspension and Mohamed Diame is once again ruled out with a knee injury.

Michael Dawson is out with a hamstring tear, while loanee Hatem Ben Arfa is not expected to play for Hull again.

Swansea goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski is available after suspension.

Defender Federico Fernandez is fit to return, and Tom Carroll is also in the squad having been ineligible against parent club Tottenham last week.

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Director of rugby Dean Richards hopes Newcastle Falcons can emulate hisformer club Harlequins in building a strong home-grown Premiership squad.

Richards helped Mike Brown, Chris Robshaw and Danny Care all thrive and win England honours while at Quins, and now Falcons' own talents Simon Hammersley, Mark Wilson and Chris Harris are showing similar promise.

"I see similarity in the young players coming through and the quality of those players," Richards told BBC Newcastle. "Trying to look forward, hopefully we will be able to keep those players we want to keep and see what the team will look like in two or three years' time. There are a lot of quality players coming through."

As the countdown to Christmas continues, Day 19 of the BBC Sport advent calendar looks back at Odell Beckham Jr's stunning one-handed catch for a touchdown for the New York Giants in the NFL.

Aston Villa are missing eight players, with Alan Hutton and Kieran Richardson suspended and the ineligible Tom Cleverley concurrently serving a ban.

Fit-again Fabian Delph will make his first start for 11 weeks, while Ron Vlaar could also return to the side.

Manchester United midfielder Angel Di Maria could be involved after a hamstring injury but Marouane Fellaini has been ruled out because of illness.

Marcos Rojo, Chris Smalling, Luke Shaw and Daley Blind are still injured.

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Queens Park Rangers' top scorer Charlie Austin returns to the squad after serving a one-match suspension.

However, manager Harry Redknapp will be without on-loan right-back Mauricio Isla, who has returned to Chile for personal reasons.

West Brom defender Jonas Olsson and striker Georgios Samaras are the only confirmed absentees for the Baggies.

Chris Brunt is back in training after a hamstring injury, while Victor Anichebe could return after a groin problem.

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Manchester City have no fit recognised strikers, with Sergio Aguero (knee), Edin Dzeko (calf) and Stevan Jovetic (hamstring) all out.

Captain Vincent Kompany is another absentee with a recurrence of a hamstring problem.

Crystal Palace forward Marouane Chamakh is out with a similar injury.

Joe Ledley is still nursing a hip injury but defender Adrian Mariappa is available following a recent knee complaint.

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Back-rowers Matt Garvey, Leroy Houston and Guy Mercer have signed new contracts with Bath.

Garvey, 27, and Houston, 28, both arrived at The Rec at the start of last season - from London Irish and Colomiers respectively.

Mercer, 25, came through the youth ranks at the Premiership club and graduated through the academy during the 2011-2012 season.

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Canadian teenager Brooke Henderson, golf's top-ranked female amateur, has announced her decision to turn professional.

The 17-year-old has won more than 50 tournaments as an amateur, including three professional titles, and claimed the individual crown this year at the Women's World Amateur Team Championship where she led Canada to the silver medal.

In 2014 she also finished second at the U.S. Women's Amateur and tied for 10th at the U.S. Women's Open.

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Former Liverpool player Kenny Dalglish has been describing the "mayhem" at Hillsborough during the disaster.

"Nobody knew what was going on," he told the inquests. "There were stories coming from every angle."

Dalglish was Liverpool's manager on the day of the April 1989 tragedy when his side met Nottingham Forest in an FA Cup semi-final.

Ninety-six fans were fatally injured after crushing on the terraces at Sheffield Wednesday's stadium.

Southampton left-back Matt Targett has signed a new five-year contract at St Mary's.

The 19-year-old has broken into the first-team this season, debuting in the League Cup win against Millwall in August.

"Being a Southampton supporter, it means a lot more to be staying at the club because it's where I want to spend my career," said Targett.

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Barnsley boss Danny Wilson has said the achievement of reaching 1,000 games in management will become rarer in future, on the eve of his landmark match.

The 54-year-old will become the 24th manager to reach four figures in Saturday's League One game against Leyton Orient.

"The word patience is long gone," he told BBC Radio Sheffield. "It's a results and financial driven industry these days, so I don't think it'll happen too often from now on."

You can watch as Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal's news conference ahead of their game against Aston Villa on Saturday is interrupted by an announcement on the club's public address system.

Saturday's Football Focus on BBC One on Saturday at 12:10 GMT features the extraordinary tale of Johnny McKinstry, who became manager of Sierra Leone at the age of just 27.

He led the team into the top 50 in the Fifa world rankings, losing only one of his first six matches but two months ago, the 29-year old Northern Irishman was sacked by email, as the Ebola outbreak gathered momentum.

The British Horseracing Authority has postponed introducing a new 'zero tolerance' drugs policy a fortnight before it was due to begin.

Announced in June 2014, the new rules mean horses cannot be injected with steroids at any time.

Lengthier bans were also introduced for horses breaking the rules, from six to 14 months.

The BHA says it hopes to implement the new rules in March 2015, following "further consultation with stakeholders".

Ahead of the weekend's Premier League fixtures, BBC Sport's football expert Mark Lawrenson is pitting his wits against singer and Manchester United fan Olly Murs, who has just released his new album 'Never Been Better'.

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Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has striker Emmanuel Adebayor available for Saturday's game against Burnley after returning from compassionate leave, although the Togo striker is not yet fully fit, so is unlikely to start.

"He's available," Pochettino said. "After, we will see if I pick him or not. I'm happy with Ade and how he's been training. Maybe he's not 100 per cent yet, but he's not far away.

"He's getting better. He needs training, he needs to improve, especially his physical condition, but he's getting better."

Adebayor has not played for Spurs since criticising the White Hart Lane supporters following last month's loss to Stoke.

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Arsenal striker Yaya Sanogo is set to leave the club on loan during the January transfer window.

The 21-year-old France youth international joined as a free agent in 2013 after his contract expired at Auxerre but he has scored only one goal in 19 appearances, eight of them starts.

The 6ft 4in forward is likely to be sent to another Premier League club rather than moving overseas to get more game time and build confidence.

Henry Flynn: mine is the South African Siphiwe Tshabalala for that stunning goal he scored to kick start Africa's first World Cup.

Will Barker: Harmison.. Edgbaston..2005 the final wicket to fall!

Tom Bale: Isiah Thomas' 25 points in the 3rd quarter of game 6 in the 1988 NBA Finals all whilst he was unable to walk.

Former owner Fred Story has given Carlisle United an early Christmas present by writing off a £1.1m loan he made to the club.

The loan dated back to his spell as owner from 2004 to 2008, a period which saw them regain their Football League status and win promotion to League One.

They were relegated back to League Two last season and he said: "I hope that it provides the lift needed in all areas to allow the club to push on and get back to where we all want it to be."

Zack Kotwica has signed a new deal at Cheltenham to keep him at the League Two club until the end of next season. The 18-year-old has made 29 appearances for the Robins and scored his first goal for his hometown club to earn them a point against Mansfield last Saturday.

Though he has said he will see out his 12-month notice period, Rangers manager Ally McCoist refused give his reasons for stepping down.

"I would keep that private," he said. "I wouldn't comment at all about why I have made that decision but now that I have, I can assure the Rangers supporters - who are the most important people - that I am 100 per cent focused on continuing the job.

"The most important thing is to say that it is business as usual. That is exactly how it has been.

"Have I been considering this for long? Not really. It was a very difficult decision but once I had made it, there was no turning back."

Chesterfield boss Paul Cook has described the Football Association's decision to order a replay of the FA Cup tie between his side and MK Dons as "disgusting for everyone involved".

The Spireites fielded an ineligible player in their 1-0 win at Stadium MK and must now replay the second round game on Friday, 2 January.

"If we broke the rules, then we should be chucked out, and if we didn't, then we should be through to face Scunthorpe. Nobody deserves to face a replay," he told BBC Radio Sheffield.

Fifa president Sepp Blatter has been expanding on the decision not to re-run the vote that awarded the 2022 World Cup to Qatar.

"It would really need an earthquake, extremely important new elements to go back on this World Cup in Qatar," said Blatter.

"At the current time, there is no reason to go back on our decisions. The two World Cups are in the calendar, the only thing missing is the precise dates for 2022, but these two World Cups will take place."

Nottinghamshire have announced Australia and South Africa internationals Ben Hilfenhaus and Vernon Philander as their overseas players for 2015.

All-rounder Philander will be available for six Championship and three T20 matches, while Hilfenhaus will arrive on 5 June to replace the South African.

Rangers manager Ally McCoist has revealed he plans to see out the full 12 months of his notice period.

The Ibrox club announced on Monday that McCoist had decided to quit after three-and-a-half years in charge.

The manager refused to reveal the reasons behind his decision to resign from the Championship outfit.

But when asked if he planned to see out the full 12-month notice period set down in his one-year rolling contract, he said: "Yes. Absolutely."

Wasps boss Dai Young says their move to the Ricoh Arena in Coventry gives them the ideal chance to secure a regular place in the European Champions Cup.

A record crowd of 27,000 is expected for their opening game at their new home against London Irish on Sunday.

"It's going to be a great motivational factor for us," director of rugby Young, 47, told BBC Midlands Today.

"We've fought hard to get back into Europe this year. We want to maintain it and be there season-on-season."

Louis van Gaal on Radamel Falcao's future: "He hasn't played so much.

"You cannot see too much of a player if he doesn't train so much. He has been injured a lot of time. First you have to be fit.

"Now he shows fitness in the training sessions so maybe I shall select him (for Saturday's game at Aston Villa), maybe for the bench or the line-up. Let's wait and see."

It's tea on day three of the first Test between South Africa and West Indies at Centurion Park and the hosts are taking control.

West Indies are 184-6 at the interval in reply to South Africa's 552-5 declared.

Pace bowler Vernon Philander has figures of 4-26 and picked up the wicket of Jermaine Blackwood with the last ball before tea.

Fifa president Sepp Blatter: "It's not the first time we have been in a critical situation. We will fight. But we need your help, you are making public opinion."

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Former France international defender Eric Abidal has announced his retirement.

The 35-year-old former Barcelona star, who returned to playing football after undergoing a liver transplant in 2012 and joined Olympiakos six months ago, told an emotional press conference: "I am open to proposals."

Holding back the tears, he added: "I do not regret my decision. I just want to rest now, enjoy my family and then to think about my future."

His final match could be Saturday's Greek Super League match with Kalloni on the island of Mytilene.

Jose Mourinho on the Christmas programme: "It is four matches in a short space of time but everyone is in the same situation. Some have easier fixtures but that is the draw and you can do nothing.

We have three away games against Stoke, Southampton and Spurs and a London derby but we are ready.

There is still a long time to go - not even 50% of league is played. People with less than 10 points difference are in the title race."

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal became irritated in his news conference when asked about former Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes, who has been training with the club.

"It's only talk from you," said Van Gaal. "Not from us, not from Valdes, only the media. I'm not here to inform the media. You have to wait and listen and see.

"If Liverpool are interested, he goes to Liverpool. The media are suggesting and that's a big mistake. That's why I'm always angry because you are inventing stories. There are no stories.

"He is training here. I give him the possibility to do that. We shall see."

Jose Mourinho adds that French defender Kurt Zouma is fine and available for the Stoke game on Monday after being involved in a heavy collision with keeper Petr Cech in the Capital One Cup game against Derby on Tuesday.

He also expects Didier Drogba recover in time and Thibaut Courtois is also in contention.

Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini on Frank Lampard's future: "We'll see. It is not just our decision. Of course I want him to stay but I can not say 100% at this moment."

On injuries ahead of Saturday's game against Crystal Palace: "We are without Jovetic, Dzeko, Aguero. We must change the way we play, a different system. Vincent Kompany is recovering from his injury but he is not fit for tomorrow."

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho on the prospect of facing Stoke City on Monday: "Sometimes you play well and lose - other times you don't play so well and win. Last season we played well against Stoke but made two mistakes that cost us the game.

"We might be getting results but we have to go there and play our game. We know their qualities and will have to adapt to it.

"If you know you will play against Peter Crouch and their defenders and if you don't adapt you are in trouble. They are a good and a difficult side."

England internationals Tom Youngs and Tom Croft will start for Leicester against Northampton on Saturday after missing the start of the season through injury.

Hooker Youngs has been out with a shoulder problem, while flanker Croft has been suffering with a knee injury.

Both were amongst the replacements against Toulon last weekend.

Fifa president Sepp Blatter's statement: "The report is about history and I am focused on the future. We will not revisit the 2018 and 2022 vote and a report by independent, external legal experts commissioned by Mr. Scala supports the view that there are no legal grounds to revoke the Executive Committee's decision on the award of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

"We are already in the process of incorporating recommendations made by independent experts including the Ethics Committee for how the Fifa World Cup selection process can be improved so that everyone can be confident that the 2026 bidding process will be fair, ethical and open."

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On Twitter: Fifa statement cites legal opinion from German professor Martin Nolte which states no revote over Qatar/Russia World Cups should occur.

BBC Sport's Simon Stone: "Louis van Gaal was broken off in full flow this afternoon - by a tannoy announcement requesting a masseur to head for the first-team dressing room.

"He initially thought it was a joke until he was told by a member of the United media team that the loud-speaker system had been left on by mistake.

"Ahead of tomorrow's game, Van Gaal explained why performances matter more to him than results, even though scrappy wins were viewed during Sir Alex Ferguson's time as the bedrock for many title successes.

"Interestingly, he also said if Liverpool were to come in for Victor Valdes - who is currently training at United - he could go, which may be a sign of confidence that David De Gea is going to sign a new deal."

British Cycling has named a 16-rider squad for the final round of the UCI Track World Cup in Cali, Colombia, which takes place from 16-18 January.

The squad is made up predominantly of Olympic Academy Programme riders and also includes guest riders Jonny Biggin, who represented Scotland at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, and Welsh rider Ellie Coster.

Olympic Podium Programme rider Katy Marchant will also make her World Cup debut having transferred from athletics to cycling in 2013.

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Commonwealth Games and European champion Jazz Carlin has moved to training bases from Cardiff to Bath as she builds towards the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

Carlin became Wales' first female Commonwealth swimming champion in 40 years after winning the 800m freestyle in Glasgow before claiming European titles in the 800m and 400m freestyle.

She has begun training with head coach David McNulty at the centre and joins Olympic medallist Michael Jamieson, and Commonwealth Champions Chris Walker-Hebborn and Siobhan-Marie O'Connor.

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says he has been talking to former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson about the team's current good run of form.

United have won their last six matches to climb to third in the Premier League, eight points behind leaders Chelsea.

"I have spoken with Sir Alex Ferguson," said the Dutchman. "He says there is not a problem. We have won. But for me it is also about the performance. If we perform well shall win more matches. That is what I want."

Britain's Fifa vice-president Jim Boyce has welcomed the decision to release the Garcia report.

"I am pleased the the Fifa executive committee decided without a vote to publish this report," said Boyce.

"It shows that people at Fifa at the moment do desire transparency and the sooner we can get on with talking about the game of football that we all love, the better."

The man widely regarded to be the world's oldest professional footballer has extended his contract with Japanese second division side Yokohama FC, according to the Guardian.

Kazuyoshi Miura, 47, has agreed to extend his deal for another season, which will see him playing past his 48th birthday.

Sale Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond expects more players to commit their future to the club.

Hooker Tommy Taylor signed a one-year extension to his deal this week, but Diamond expects more news on renewals before January, when players out of contract at the end of the season can talk to other clubs.

"Eifion Lewis-Roberts, Michael Paterson to name a couple, Danny Cipriani - they all are keen to stay at the club," Diamond, 45, told Rugby Union Extra.

"All of them want to see the ambition in the club of signing the existing players, and then going in the market for two or three other players - and we're in the market.

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce says the Football Association was "wrong" to charge Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson over his argument with a fan.

Pearson is accused of using "abusive and/or insulting words" towards a Foxes supporter in the defeat by Liverpool but Allardyce said: "He should get a warning about his future conduct, because he hasn't stepped out of line."

He added that the FA is "as scared as everyone else about being politically correct".

"The move to lift the veil of secrecy surrounding the investigation represents a U-turn after Fifa originally refused pressure from Garcia himself and others to reveal his findings."

American lawyer Michael Garcia complied a report into alleged corruption in the bids to award the 2018 and 2022 World Cups to Russia and Qatar respectively.

A summary of the report was released by Fifa ethics committee chairman Hans-Joachim Eckert, a summary that Garcia described as erroneous.

Garcia's appeal against the summary was dismissed as "not admissible" by Fifa, with Garcia then resigning on Thursday.

Fifa executives have unanimously agreed to publish a "legally appropriate version" of a disputed report into allegations of World Cup corruption.

Fifa's executive committee opted to release the full 430-page Garcia Report after a meeting in Marrakech after a recommendation by compliance chief Domenico Scala.

But the report will only be made public after current investigations into five individuals is completed, and is expected to be heavily redacted to protect witness confidentiality.

We've been asking you for your sporting inspirations and why they inspire you.

Vincenzo Re: David Brailsford. Shows how everyone can maximise their performance and achieve their full potential.

Nicola Jade: Has to be seeing @davidweir2012 win those 4 gold medals at 2012 Paralympics! An unsung sporting hero!

Vidur: Jessica Ennis. From a girl riddled with insecurities when she was small to becoming a one-woman athletics team

Chris Doherty: Niki Lauda having a near death crash at the Nürburgring, to coming back at he Italian GP only 6 weeks later.

Keep them coming via #mysportinginspiration or on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

BBC Sport's Simon Stone: "At the Manchester United training ground for Louis van Gaal's look-ahead to a rare 3pm Saturday game at Aston Villa at midday.

"After six successive wins, Wayne Rooney, Marouane Fellaini and Phil Neville have all championed Manchester United's Premier League title claims.

"Van Gaal has tended to avoid the subject entirely. But if this run continues over Christmas and the New Year period, he will have to address it."

On Twitter: Fifa Exco sources: unanimous vote for full publication of Garcia report 'where legally possible, and after current investigations completed'.

Fifa compliance chief Scala recommended publication - but it seems that it a) won't be for some time, and b) will be heavily redacted.

BBC Sport understands that Fifa's executive committee has agreed unanimously to publish Michael Garcia's report into World Cup bidding, where legally possible.

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British cyclist Alex Dowsett has confirmed his plan to try to break the Hour Record at the Lee Valley VeloPark on Friday, 27 February.

It will be part of the Revolution Series track cycling event at the venue that weekend, with Dame Sarah Storey making her attempt at the women's record a day later.

A former British time trial champion, Dowsett won the time trial at this year's Commonwealth Games and his attempt is the fourth that has been announced this week, with Australians Rohan Dennis and Jack Bobridge, and Storey, all declaring their plans to go for it.

Switzerland's Matthias Brandle holds the men's record after riding 51.85km in an hour.

Former Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish will give evidence at the Hillsborough disaster inquests on Friday.

The ex-player, who was in charge of the Reds on the day of the tragedy, will speak from the witness box in the final afternoon session before the hearings adjourn for the Christmas break.

On Thursday, the coroner told the jury that there was a 'real risk' the inquests will not end until early 2016. The evidence is not due to finish until 6 November 2015.

On Twitter: Jones stays in goal for Liverpool. Rodgers: "No change in goalkeeper." That press conference lasted 4 minutes 50 secs.

As Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers faces the media ahead of Liverpool's game against Arsenal on Sunday, BBC Sport pundit Robbie Savage gives his views on the club's signings and whether they have been a hit or miss and also gives his view on what Liverpool should look for in the transfer window.

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Featherstone have signed Samoa forward Reni Maitua on a two-year deal from the Canterbury Bulldogs.

The 32-year-old has 174 NRL appearances to his name and three international caps.

He started out with Canterbury and then had spells with Cronulla and Parramatta before going back to the Bulldogs and made 13 appearances for them in 2014.

The National Football Museum in Manchester has launched a new exhibition commemorating the centenary of World War One and the roles played by a number of footballers in the conflict

Highlights on display include a previously unseen diary detailing the events of the famous 'Christmas Truce' of 1914, as well as lost footage from the front and of wartime football.

Exeter Chiefs winger Matt Jess says he would be proud to spend a decade at Sandy Park after signing a new deal.

The 30-year-old, who committed himself to the club until 2018 earlier this week, first signed for Exeter from Launceston in 2008 when the club were in the old National League One.

"I'd be massively proud," Jess told BBC Radio Devon. "To hopefully be here for another three years and get that 10-year service would be outstanding."

From the BBC Sport Facebook page

Shejanul Islam: Sir Matt Busby overcoming his injuries from the Munich disaster to build another great team which won the European Cup 10 years later.

Mat Newton: My cousin Fiona running a 5km race after her breast cancer inspired me to run a half marathon. Raised 500 quid for Cancer Research.

Ahapearl Pytr Arnold: Messi. Very short, 4 Ballon D'ors in a row, 91 goals in a year. The fact that 'he can't be reached' inspires me

If you missed the excellent Radio 5 live show Mind of a Cyclist on Thursday evening, you can listen again here.

Victoria Pendleton spoke to Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Bradley Wiggins and Dr Steve Peters to find out what goes on in the head of an elite cyclist.

Not only that, but Wiggins also does an impression of Lance Armstrong.

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Aston Villa midfielder Tom Cleverley's doorstep conversation with ex-assistant manager Roy Keane was civilised, according to boss Paul Lambert.

Republic of Ireland assistant Keane was reported to have been angry at supposed leaks from the dressing room after he quit in November and rung the doorbell at Cleverley's home for 15 minutes to confront the player.

"It certainly wasn't how it was portrayed," said Lambert. "I spoke to Tom and he assures me that is certainly not what happened. That was it, really. I spoke to Tom and the matter is finished."

It's lunch on day three of the first Test between South Africa and West Indies at Centurion Park, with the visitors losing two wickets in response to the Proteas' huge first-innings total.

South Africa declared overnight on 552-5 and, after West Indies' openers Kraigg Brathwaite and Devon Smith shared 72, both fell in quick succession.

The tourists have reached 110-2, with debutant Leon Johnson unbeaten on 27 and Marlon samuels eight not out.

Greater Manchester Police have confirmed they have arrested a 17-year-old male on suspicion of assault in connection with the attack on boxer Anthony Crolla.

Manchester fighter Crolla suffered a fractured skull and a broken ankle in a confrontation with burglars.

The 28-year-old, who was due to fight for the WBA world lightweight title in January, was hit over the head with a concrete slab.

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The England selectors are meeting today to discuss the squad for the World Cup and the future of Alastair Cook as one-day captain.

Cook averages only 27.52 in his last 20 ODIs and has seen England lose the last four series in which he has taken charge.

The Analyst Simon Hughes has outlined some of the reasons why he think it is time for Cook to be moved aside.

Cardiff Blues player Owen Williams says he does not feel any bitterness or anger about his situation after suffering a significant spinal injury.

The 23-year-old Wales international was temporarily paralysed in June after being tackled during a 10-a-side tournament in Singapore and while he has regained some movement in both arms as he continues his rehabilitation, he says he cannot afford to have negative thoughts.

"It's just about the future," he said in an interview with BBC Wales's Scrum V. "I try not to think about what's gone on."

This week, Redknapp visited Malaysia to meet Rangers owner Tony Fernandes, but rejected any speculation that was over his future as manager.

"He's not able to get over, he's busy," said Redknapp. "We discussed lots of different aspects of the club.

"We had a good day, positive meetings about the training ground, the stadium, January and the youth system."

APCopyright: AP

Aaron Rook: Alex Zanardi. A man who had his legs taken away but none of his passion and determination to win. Exceptional man.

Amy Godoy-Pressland: Chrissie Wellington and Eric Godoy. When I lack motivation, thinking about these two gets me out the door.

John McEnerney: Watching Seve playing in the Irish Open was enough to inspire anyone and he inspired me and many many others! The King!!

Continue to tell us who or what inspires you and why. Send us your thoughts using #mysportinginspiration or via the BBC Sport Facebook page.

QPR host West Brom having won three and drawn one in their last four home games. However, Rangers remain the only team in the top flight without an away win this season.

"We've got a home game tomorrow, so I'm not thinking about the away form," said Redknapp. "That's in the distance.

"We've had those home games recently - Leicester, Villa, Burnley. They've all been very important and we've won those games.

"The last few games have been the same. There's pressure, but we've shown good character to come through those games."

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Charlie Austin returns to the QPR side for Saturday's visit of West Brom after serving a one-match ban.

QPR lie in the Premier League relegation zone, but only three points behind 14th-placed West Brom.

"I'm relieved to see Austin back," said Redknapp. "He's been excellent.

"His partnerships with both Bobby Zamora and Eduardo Vargas have worked well."

Saracens have called for the rugby union Premiership salary cap to be abolished, and claim that seven Premiership clubs have indicated they would like to do the same.

The current salary cup is £5.5m, which includes academy credits and add-ons. This was increased by around £500,000 in September, the same time a second marquee player allowance was introduced.

"The salary cap has served its purpose," said chief executive Edward Griffiths. "It's time to seize a golden opportunity to grow the game, to ensure a level playing field in Europe, to build the strongest league in world rugby and to let players earn market-related salaries."

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Rangers have been linked with moves for Stoke's Peter Crouch - formerly of QPR - and Jermain Defoe of Toronto.

Redknapp on Crouch: "Mark Hughes is saying today that they are looking to give him a new contract. He belongs to Stoke. He's a good player, but he's not possible to get. That's not a goer.

Redknapp on Defoe: "Another excellent player, but I'm not sure he fits in our budget.

Today we are asking who or what inspires you and why.

Viraj M Pindoria: Steven Gerrard's Istanbul heroics. Doesn't get more inspirational than that.

Bill Kennedy: Robert Millar winning a stage of the Tour de France in 1984.

Claire Carolyne Kola Ezekiel: David Rudisha breaking the 800m world record in London Olympics.

Continue to send us your inspirations using #mysportinginspiration or via the BBC Sport Facebook page.

QPR manager Harry Redknapp has been speaking of the need to sign a striker in the January transfer window. Charlie Austin has scored eight of Rangers' 17 Premier League goals this season.

"We're not that far short. If we can find another striker in January to add to the ones we've got, that's an area we're looking at," said Redknapp. "In January it is difficult because people aren't looking to let players to go. There will be someone, I'm sure, who can come and help us.

"We've scored goals at home. Charlie Austin is our main goalscorer, but you need goals from all areas - midfielders, wide players. Goals should come from different positions."

APCopyright: AP

Theo Walcott has made just two appearances for Arsenal this season following his recovery from a long-term knee injury.

The 25-year-old forward returned to training on Thursday after a groin problem suffered while on international duty with England last month.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain limped out of the closing stages of Arsenal's 4-1 Premier League win over Newcastle last weekend with a groin problem which the club hope will prove to be minor.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has paid tribute to striker Thierry Henry, who retired earlier this week

"He's had a massive career and I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for what he's done for the club," said Wenger.

"He was a combination of physical talent and intelligence. He was one of the greatest players I've ever seen."

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Nacho Monreal will all be assessed on Saturday ahead of Sunday's Premier League game against Liverpool. But Laurent Koscielny is out.

"Members of Fifa's executive committee have told BBC Sport there is internal support for releasing Michael Garcia's report into corruption.

"However, Sepp Blatter's role will be decisive if the proposal to reform Fifa's ethics code that would enable publication is to be passed.

"Sources close to the Fifa president believe that as of last night he was still undecided over what to do and was taking soundings from advisors over the options.

"The meeting will begin at 09:00 in Marrakesh and is expected to conclude around noon and Blatter, along side Domenico Scala, Fifa's independent audit and compliance chief, will then speak to the media from 13:00."

Coming up we have news from Arsene Wenger and Harry Redknapp as they face the media ahead of their weekend games.

Arsenal travel to Liverpool on Sunday while QPR host West Brom on Saturday.

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Steve Smith, deputising for the injured Michael Clarke, has become the first Australian to score a century in his maiden Test as captain since Graham Yallop in 1978.

Smith hit 133 at the Gabba to help Australia to a 97-run first-innings lead on day three of the second Test against India.

"I wanted to lead from the front with my performances so hopefully I've done that so far in this game," he said.

"Our whole tail batted beautifully and to get us up over 500 was remarkable."

The World War One Christmas truce football match has been called one of sport's most inspirational moments while Jo Pavey was hailed for winning European athletics gold at the age of 40.

Today we want to know who or what inspires you and why?

Let us know using #mysportinginspiration or via the BBC Sport Facebook page.

The TimesCopyright: The Times

In an interview with The Times (subscription required), Manchester United's Marouane Fellaini says that his side could win the Premier League and a top-four finish is their minimum requirement.

"Last season was not good enough for Manchester United," he says. "We know that and are working hard to put that right."

The GuardianCopyright: The Guardian

The Guardian reports that Premier League clubs have been accused of "excluding families from poorer backgrounds" over the fees they charge for children to become matchday mascots.

The SunCopyright: The Sun

The Sun's back page (subscription required) features Chelsea's Eden Hazard, who has been given an early Christmas present with a new £52m deal which will make him the club's highest-paid player and keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2020.

Here are some of the stories from today's football gossip column.

The Daily Express reports that Liverpool are prepared to make a £50m bid for Real Madrid's French forward Karim Benzema in the January transfer window.

According to the Daily Mirror, the Reds are also interested in Aston Villa midfielder Fabian Delph and see the 25-year-old as a long-term replacement for Steven Gerrard.

And in the Sun, Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero is expected to return to action a month ahead of schedule after suffering a knee injury earlier this month. The 26-year-old was expected to be out for two months, but could be back in early January.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Southampton striker Jay Rodriguez's long-term knee injury is likely to keep him out for at least another six weeks, according to manager Ronald Koeman.

Rodriguez, 25, ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament in a Premier League game against Manchester City in April and Koeman confirmed he has had a setback in his recovery.

"After a big injury, you don't have to rush. He needs time and we are giving him the time to come back, but it's a pity because he's a great player." said Koeman. "I think now, in this situation, he will not be available before the end of January."

Defending champion Michael van Gerwen moved into the second round of the PDC World Championship, but former winner John Part was beaten on the first day of action at Alexandra Palace.

Part, the champion in 2003 and 2008 as well as BDO winner in 1994, lost 3-2 to rising star Keegan Brown, while 13th seed Wes Newton also missed out after a 3-2 defeat to Spain's Cristo Reyes.

Rangers have appointed former Newcastle managing director Derek Llambias as their new chief executive.

The Scottish Championship club made the announcement to the Stock Exchange ahead of Monday's annual meeting.

The 58-year-old joined the Rangers board as a non-executive director last month.

APCopyright: AP

Australia's Steve Smith completed a century in his first innings as Test captain and Mitchell Starc also contributed with bat and ball to give the hosts a narrow advantage after three days of the second Test against India in Brisbane.

Australia opened up a 97-run first-innings lead, with Smith scoring 133, Mitchell Johnson 88 and Starc 52. Starc then removed Murali Vijay as India reached 71-1 by the close at the Gabba.

Australia lead 1-0 in the four-match series.

Good morning and welcome to another busy Friday at the BBC Sport Centre.

It's the last Friday Sportsday Live of 2014 but there will be plenty to keep you busy with Christmas Day now less than a week away.

We'll be hearing from nine Premier League managers during the day, including Arsene Wenger, Louis van Gaal, Brendan Rodgers, Manuel Pellegrini and Jose Mourinho.

But here is what you may have missed overnight.