Rafael Nadal stands on the brink of reaching his first Grand Slam final in almost three years as he faces Grigor Dimitrov in the semi-finals of the Australian Open. Old foe Roger Federer awaits in the final after the 35-year-old beat Stan Wawrinka. Follow all the actions as it happens live with JAMES DUTTON, plus MIKE DICKSON courtside in Melbourne.
'We are STILL unbeaten': Mourinho refuses to accept Manchester United's defeat at Hull as he ignores penalty (and celebrates his 54th birthday on bus)
CRAIG HOPE AT THE KCOM STADIUM: The Portuguese believes United are now unbeaten in 18 matches - it was 17 in league and cup entering the second leg - as he would not acknowledge Hull's opening goal, a Tom Huddlestone penalty awarded by referee Jon Moss for a Marcos Rojo shirt-tug on Harry Maguire.
Everton offer 12-month contract to Baxter... who is currently on drug ban
The 24-year-old from Bootle began his career with the Toffees and could now return to play with David Unsworth's high-flying Under 23s side next season.
Premiership rugby pair ordered to attend rehab after failing cocaine test
Two Premiership rugby players have tested positive for cocaine and ordered to attend a drug rehabilitation course. heir identities are protected under the RFU's illicit drugs programme.
Joshua vs Klitschko fight gets green light for capacity extension and will set a post-war record of 90,000 spectators
NEW Anthony Joshua's upcoming showdown with Wladimir Klitschko will officially be watched by the biggest post-war crowd in British boxing, after plans for a capacity extension got the go-ahead.
Tigers in crisis: Record defeats, Cockerill and Mauger's fallout, crippling injuries and a lack of kids... where has it gone wrong for Leicester?
The proud foundations at Welford Road are showing signs of rust. Leicester’s famous stadium - new and shiny in appearance - is becoming a relic of past success and could soon be beyond repair.
Pogba goal clinches Manchester United's Wembley spot despite second leg defeat as Niasse and Huddlestone strike for Hull
CHRIS WHEELER AT THE KCOM STADIUM: Another birthday, another place in the final of the League Cup, the gift that keeps on giving for Jose Mourinho. Shame the celebrations didn't go with a swing. This was an uncomfortable experience for the Manchester United manager and his players on a freezing night on Humberside when he stood shivering by the touchline and possibly regretted cutting off all his hair.
PLAYER RATINGS: Niasse shows Hull what he can do as Rojo struggles for Manchester United
Despite losing on the night, Paul Pogba's goal for Manchester United saw Jose Mourinho's side reach the EFL Cup final. The Frenchman equalised for the visitors after Tom Huddlestone scored from the penalty spot to effectively end the tie before Oumar Niasse, on loan from Everton, scored a late consolation. Here, Sportsmail's JOE BERNSTEIN runs the rule over the two teams.
Mourinho regretting his haircut, Rooney's special boots and Hull's support for Mason: Seven things you missed as Manchester United reached the EFL Cup final
Amid all the excitement, you could be forgiven for having missed some of the less obvious goings-on at the KCOM Stadium. But don't worry, Sportsmail's eagle-eyed team was on the case.
Mourinho gives grumpy 26-second TV interview after his side reach EFL Cup final despite defeat at Hull
Mourinho's side fell behind to a penalty in the first half from what looked like a soft decision by Jon Moss. After the break Moss waved away appeals when Chris Smalling was bundled over in the box.
Referee Moss made a horrendous decision in awarding Hull's penalty... there's going to be penalties every game if you give that, slams Neville
Former Manchester United player Phil Neville has blasted referee Jon Moss' decision to award Hull a penalty against his old side in their EFL Cup semi-final second leg on Thursday night.
Hull's Snodgrass expected to undergo medical at West Ham on Friday
West Ham are hoping to complete a £10million deal for Robert Snodgrass after agreeing terms. The 29-year-old Hull midfielder is expected to undergo a medical on Friday.
Gerrard admits he's 'excited and nervous' about Liverpool academy role
The Champions League-winning former Reds captain, who retired in November after a spell in the United States, is due to take up his new role next week.
Santa Cruz fury at new president Trump ahead of Frampton re-match: 'How dare he think about kicking my family out of USA'
JEFF POWELL IN LAS VEGAS: As if striving to wrest a world title from the jaws of The Jackal is not daunting enough a fight for one weekend, Leo Santa Cruz is also slugging it out with The Donald. This youngest son of an immigrant family is alarmed by new US president Donald Trump ordering a wall on America’s southern border, his insulting behaviour towards Santa Cruz’s fellow Mexicans and, especially, his threat of mass deportations. Santa Cruz interrupted preparations for Saturday night’s rematch with Carl Frampton, the Belfast Jackal, to say: ‘It concerns me Trump talks about wanting to kick out all Mexicans, the Latin people and the immigrants.
MGM Grand stockpiles Guinness for Frampton's 5,000 thirsty fans as world champion predicts second victory over Santa Cruz
The MGM Grand Hotel is drafting in extra truck loads of Guinness for the 5,000 Carl Frampton fans flying into Las Vegas from Ireland. Richard Schaefer, promoter of the Belfast Jackal's world featherweight title rematch with Leo Santa Cruz, said: 'We don't want a repeat of the week Ricky Hatton's followers drank the bars dry of beer here.'
McGuigan taking no chances with Frampton after his Vegas dream died
One of Barry McGuigan’s first tasks as he began this return to the neon Strip of his own broken dream has been to establish the temperature which will be set inside the arena on Saturday night.
Nottingham Forest make approach for Burton boss Clough to follow in footsteps of legendary father Brian
Nottingham Forest have made a sensational approach to bring Nigel Clough back to the club as manager to follow in the footsteps of his legendary father Brian.
Woods handed sobering reality check after carding 76 to lie 133rd after first round of Farmers Insurance Open as Rose leads the way
There were no miracles this time from Tiger Woods on the course where he once won the 2008 United States Open. Woods began as the world’s 663rd ranked golfer and played as such
Denis Suarez brace helps Barca book place in Copa del Rey semi after Sociedad win
BARCELONA 5-2 REAL SOCIEDAD (AGG 6-2) BY PETE JENSON: Barcelona booked their place in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey after a thrilling second half display saw them come out 5-2 winners against Real Sociedad at the Nou Camp. Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Arda Turan all scored inbetween two strikes from Denis Suarez on a night where defending took a back seat.
Wilkinson was the first fly-half to make big hits... it's important everyone tackles, says Lozowski as he bids to emulate his hero
INTERVIEW BY WILL KELLEHER: Alex Lozowski was 10-years-old when Jonny Wilkinson won the World Cup for England in 2003, so it is natural that the uncapped Saracen wants to emulate his childhood hero. But rather than perfecting his drop-goal technique, 23-year-old Lozowski is bringing back another Jonny-ism - hitting unsuspecting forwards into next week.
Rooney's agent Stretford now has links with England boss Southgate too
CHARLES SALE - SPORTS AGENDA: Paul Stretford, the football agent whom Wayne Rooney lavished with praise during his tribute night, now has both the England captain and manager in his ranks.
From the 'Black Box' that locates players to their flawless hunt for the inevitable new boss, here's how Southampton have built foundations for success
The tie was not supposed to go their way, but Southampton have made a habit of defying expectations. On Wednesday they secured a slot in the EFL Cup final by beating Liverpool.
WORLD OF RUGBY: Can the real France please stand up? This Six Nations needs a shot of the old Gallic spirit
CHRIS FOY - The barren era has gone on far too long. From this side of the Channel, a genuine plea; can the real France – the daring, dangerous France, please come back?
China's spending power underlined by new FIFA figures which show only four other countries spent more in 2016
Teams in the Chinese Super League - whose aggressive pursuit of top stars including Diego Costa and Wayne Rooney in recent months - shelled out a total of £356million during the calendar years.
Gordon wants Chelsea talks despite Celtic boss Rodgers insisting keeper is part of his plans and not for sale
Celtic keeper Craig Gordon wants to hold talks with Chelsea over a move to Stamford Bridge after the Premier League leaders tabled an offer on Thursday morning.
AUSTRALIAN OPEN... MARCH OF THE GOLDEN OLDIES
Federer excited by prospect of 'unreal' showdown with old rival Nadal after defying the odds to reach the Australian Open final
MIKE DICKSON: It was October 19 and Roger Federer was doing Rafael Nadal a favour by flying in to appear at the opening of the tennis academy he has put his name to in Mallorca. Neither was in especially good shape, as recalled by the Swiss master, who has done his bit in turning this Australian Open into a living hologram of the past. 'I was on one leg and he had wrist problems, we could only play mini-tennis with the kids,' said Federer, the oldest man in a Grand Slam final since Ken Rosewall in 1974. 'I thought it would be great if we could talk about playing a charity match. Look where we are now.'
Williams sisters preparing for the moment of their careers as they meet once more in the Australian Open final
MIKE DICKSON IN MELBOURNE: It is perhaps for the best that neither of Serena and Venus Williams’s parents will be present to witness their unlikely Australian Open final. Mum Oracene is back in Los Angeles and apparently did not make the trip after suffering with some plumbing issues at her home. Father Richard is rarely seen at tennis these days, the last sighting of him being at the Miami Open last year. He has subsequently suffered a stroke and would not be up for the long trip to Australia. Sister Isha, who is here, will have to disappear into the neutrality of the stands somewhere.
Federer closes in on his greatest chapter as he holds nerve to beat Wawrinka in five-set thriller
MIKE DICKSON: Roger Federer has defeated his fellow Swiss Stan Wawrinka to reach the final of the Australian Open. The 35-year-old will play either Rafael Nadal or Grigor Dimitrov.
Venus books place in final for first time since 2003 after beating Coco
Venus Williams turned back the clock by beating fellow American Coco Vandeweghe at the Australian Open to reach her first grand slam final in eight years.
Serena sets up dream final with dominant win against Lucic-Baroni
Serena Williams brought an end to Mirjana Lucic-Baroni's fairytale with an emphatic 6-2 6-1 victory, which ensures the siblings will meet for a ninth major final and their first since Wimbledon in 2009.
Blond ambition: The big boys were after him but Will Hughes wants promotion with Derby and a Cup shock against Leicester
LAURIE WHITWELL: Will Hughes is at an age when most of his peers are trying to make the first team, but he already has a staggering 172 games under his belt. 'I feel like a veteran, at only 21 years old,' he says. 'It's four of five years till my testimonial!' Five seasons have passed since Hughes flashed onto the scene with his white hair and pure touch and, remarkably for one so young, the 173rd appearance of his club career will come against Leicester in the FA Cup.
TV’s Alan Parry on his Wycombe love affair and brushes with the FA... I was so wound up I'd go after refs in tunnel!
INTERVIEW BY MATT BARLOW: Alan Parry knew nothing of Wycombe Wanderers when sent by BBC Radio on an FA Cup assignment which would change his life. It was January 1975 and a third-round tie against high-flying Middlesbrough. Having located High Wycombe on the map, Parry watched with intrigue as the Isthmian League part-timers trotted across the frosty surface of their sloping pitch and waved cheerily to their chairman, who was in the hospital which dominated one end of Loakes Park.
Southampton's Van Dijk will miss EFL Cup final with star expected to be sidelined for three months
EXCLUSIVE - RIATH AL-SAMMARAI: Southampton have suffered a huge blow in the EFL Cup hopes after privately accepting Virgil van Dijk won’t be fit for the final next month.
Liverpool weigh up move for £17m Real Betis left-back Durmisi as Klopp targets defensive reinforcements
SIMON JONES - TRANSFER COLUMN: Liverpool scouts have checked on Danish international left-back Riza Durmisi, who has a £17m buy out clause at Real Betis.
UEFA Nations League: All you need to know about the brand new system replacing international friendlies
The UEFA Nations League is a new structure of international football fixtures to be implemented in 2018. This new format can be complicated at first so it warrants breaking down.
England's Itoje in top shape for Six Nations as he destroys personal trainer in 'Gain Off'
Maro Itoje will carry the hopes of his country as England look to repeat their Six Nations Grand Slam of 12 months ago — and judging his latest exploits in the gym he is ready for it. The Saracens star, who is rapidly becoming the pin up boy of the Red Rose, has been testing himself against Maximuscle's in-house personal trainer Paul Olima in a series of challenges billed as a 'Gain Off'. The pair do battle over a sled pull, dumbbell hold, 30 kilogram weighted pull-ups, medicine ball throw and tyre flipping race.
Morgan's swashbuckling half-century leads England to seven-wicket romp over India in first Twenty20 clash
PAUL NEWMAN IN KANPUR: Eoin Morgan led England to an emphatic victory over India in the first Twenty20 international as he smashed four sixes in a half century that overshadowed home captain Virat Kohli. It was all too easy for England, beaten in both the Test and one-day series on this difficult tour, as Morgan led their charge to overcome India’s below par 147 for seven with a match-winning partnership of 83 with Joe Root.
Eoin Morgan praises 'outstanding' bowlers after England cruise to Twenty20 victory over India
Eoin Morgan saluted England's control in Kanpur as the tourists kicked off the Twenty20 series with a rare day of dominance in India - winning by seven wickets with 11 balls to spare.
Sky viewers set to lose Eurosport in days amid fierce row with Discovery
Discovery has threatened to withdraw its channels from Sky - including shows such as Say Yes to the Dress - over claims that the network 'refuses to pay a fair price', but Sky says it has been 'overpaying'.
Fleetwood manager Rosler could leave club with Norway prepared to make official approach for German
Uwe Rosler is wanted as the next manager for of Norway. The Norwegian FA are preparing an official approach for the Fleetwood boss, according to Dagbladet.
Choose Les Reed, choose selling off your top players, choose making a profit, choose a Wembley Cup final, choose Southampton
IAN LADYMAN: When Mauricio Pochettino arrived at Tottenham from Southampton in 2014, one of his first instructions to his staff was to keep an eye on players coming through at Southampton. The Argentine had only been manager at St Mary’s for 16 months before moving to London but had seen enough to know the club were not short on talent. ‘He knew that he had left behind a club that had something brilliant developing at that level,’ a source close to Pochettino told Sportsmail on Thursday night.
Jesus explores Manchester as new City forward prepares for life in the Premier League
Manchester City new boy Gabriel Jesus has been exploring his new surroundings following his January move from Palmeiras. The Brazilian forward, who made his debut against Tottenham on Saturday, enjoyed a stroll on Thursday afternoon with a pal. Jesus agreed to join Pep Guardiola's side in the summer and completed his £27million move in January and is now settling into life in Manchester.
Reformed Jermaine Pennant on bad-boy past: 'I don't think there's an angel in football... apart from James Milner'
Jermaine Pennant has a neat and humorous response when the inevitable issue of his bad-boy past is raised. ‘No-one’s an angel,’ starts the controversial former Arsenal winger.
Barcelona legend Xavi signs new one-year deal at Al Sadd until 2018
The 37-year-old moved to the middle east in 2015 after bringing an end to a glittering career at the Nou Camp, and his targeting wining his first piece of silverware for the Qatar side.
'Adebayor would sit in the gym with a coffee and a muffin while he was getting paid by Spurs, Man City and Palace', reveals Hangeland
Emmanuel Adebayor still believes he has a lot to offer the Premier League, but any potential suitors may wish to err on the side of caution after hearing a comical anecdote from Brede Hangeland.
Ferdinand joined at relaunch of his Rosso restaurant by football stars Williams, Adam, Cole... and ex-glamour model Katie Price
Rio Ferdinand was joined by Everton defender Ashley Williams as he relaunched his Rosso Restaurant in Manchester. The former United defender co-owns the venue and hosted a star-studded bash before the restaurant re-opened on Friday. With former glamour model Katie Price and Towie star Danielle Armstrong also in attendance, Ferdinand posed alongside Toffees centre backs Williams and Brendan Galloway for photographers at the launch.
Watford complete loan signing of AC Milan striker Niang... and Hornets could make the move permanent for £14m in the summer
Watford have bolstered their strikeforce with the addition of AC Milan's M'Baye Niang on loan.
Southampton in line for Chinese investment of up to £200m as Lander Sports tells stock exchange it has signed deal for a stake in the club
Southampton have moved to reassure fans about the club's future after a Chinese company claimed to have reached an agreement to buy into the Premier League side.
Ranieri told by owner to make Leicester's Premier League survival a priority ahead of Derby FA Cup clash
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha and Ranieri spoke this week with the Leicester manager told to concentrate on getting his team away from the relegation zone. They face Derby on Friday.
West Brom eye loan swoop for Chelsea's out-of-favour defender Ivanovic amid interest from Everton and Zenit St Petersburg
Ivanovic was left out of Antonio Conte's squad for the victory over Hull, with Kurt Zouma and Nathan Ake handed places on the bench instead, and Chelsea are open to offers.
STARS OF SPORT
- Hamilton challenges fans to design race helmet for new season as British F1 star calls for 'dope new' look He took to Instagram to announce competition
- Mourinho regretting his haircut, Rooney's special boots and messages for Mason Seven things you missed as Manchester United reached EFL Cup final
- Blond ambition: Derby star Hughes wants promotion and a Cup shock against Leicester The big boys were after him but Hughes wants success with Derby
- Itoje destroys personal trainer in 'Gain Off' The Saracens star has been testing himself against Maximuscle's in-house personal trainer Paul Olima
- City new boy Jesus explores Manchester The Brazilian forward, who made his debut against Tottenham on Saturday, enjoyed a stroll with his pal
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- Photobomb! Flanagan spoils Barton's snap as Burnley star meets snooker legend White Flanagan crept his way into the photo with an expert photobomb
- Gundogan spotted in Manchester on crutches as midfielder looks to overcome knee injury It appears Ilkay Gundogan's return is coming along slowly
- As glum Liverpool stars get back to the drawing board with season in danger of unravelling, the key questions facing Klopp One win in seven in 2017
- Costa's cheeky finish! Chelsea striker scores with his backside during training as they prepare for FA Cup tie with Brentford Can't stop scoring!
- Boxing clever! Joshua attends opening of state-of-the-art gym in London The 27-year-old heavyweight boxer has invested in project
- Las Vegas glitz won't faze Frampton as he seeks to conquer Santa Cruz for second time Appeared in MGM Grand Hotel casino for open workout
- PSG confirm signing of Manchester United target and 'next Ronaldo' for £21m Goncalo Guedes has agreed a four-and-a-half-year deal
- Liverpool legend Gerrard meets up with Chelsea captain Terry ahead of Liverpool vs Chelsea showdown Formerly rival captains but now they are pals
- Meet Aberdeen's new signing... who has to apologise after tweeting: 'I hate Aberdeen' New Aberdeen signing Ryan Christie has vowed to win over supporters
- Club No 11 for Eto'o as legend agrees deal with Russian outfit Amkar Samuel Eto'o looks set to extend his stay in the professional game with short-term deal
- Hamilton shares snowboarding video as he hits the slopes during F1 off-season Lewis Hamilton is used to staying ice cool in stressful situations
- Long shows off tattoo of prayer his father used to tell him as a child after win at Anfield On the left-hand side of his chest, Long has nine lines of the prayer
- 'Real Madrid wanted me... maybe I should have gone': McEachran opens on Chelsea spell He faces former team Chelsea with Brentford in the FA Cup on Saturday
- Happy to be heading back, Aubameyang? Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang looked in good spirits as he headed back to Germany on Wednesday
- West Ham new boy Fonte trains for first time as rebel Payet misses session again Jose Fonte appeared for the first time after arriving from Southampton
- Mourinho reveals new haircut as Manchester United prepare for second leg of EFL Cup semi-final with Hull New buzz cut for United manager
- Come and meet our Son! Tottenham stars bring South Korean fan back to their hotel in Barcelona to meet idol Waited outside his door to surprise him
- 'This is a big statement': Klopp hails Coutinho deal as Liverpool smash wage record to hand star £200,000-a-week Committed future to club
- Arsenal squad enjoy evening out following heroics against Burnley... but where is star man Mesut Ozil? The Gunners enjoyed an evening meal together
- But the morning after didn't go well! Ramsey left deflated as he shares picture of flat tyre on £200,000 sports car Mercedes SLS was out of action
- Everton bring in German starlet Donkor on loan from Wolsfburg Anton Donkor will link up with David Unsworth's Under 23 academy stars
- Chelsea stars also dined out as Costa joined table-toppers for team dinner ahead of match against Brentford Marcos Alonso posted a group photo with his team-mates on Tuesday
- Tottenham stars enjoy fun in the Barcelona sun after they sweat it out in tough training session Dele Alli and Co have been working hard and playing hard in Spain
- Former rivals Ballack and Ferdinand join forces for Star Sixes Host of stars including Roberto Carlos and Michael Owen will play in tournament at the O2
- Chelsea legend Joe Cole on how he knew Hazard would be a world beater at Lille... And racing Roman Abramovich to the title celebrations hungover
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Pepe as Hannibal Lecter? That's fine! Real's £5.2m compensation claim rejected as court rules film was not slanderChianti with that news?
- Senegal goalkeeper takes time-wasting to a new level as he comically trips over his own feet Sparked anger but no card from referee
- Jo-zzzzz-e Mourinho! Manchester United boss catches up on his sleep as he is driven into training ahead of cup semi-final Tired manager
- FORE! Arsenal and Chelsea youngsters Iwobi and Aina enjoy night out at Top Golf... and reveal terrible swings Appalling play by pair
- West Ham rebel ayet looks happy to be training with the reserves as Marseille weigh up a fourth bid Dimitri Payet has asked to leave West Ham
- He's have the shirt off your back! Lewandowski shows off his juggling skills as Bayern striker freestyles during training session More than a goalscorer
- Sunderland sign Lescott on free transfer until end of the season (but he last played 114 days ago in Greece) David Moyes has turned to Joleon Lescott
- Real prepare for Copa del Rey trip to Celta Vigo with high-intensity ball work session as Ronaldo and Co bid to overturn first-leg deficit Eye on the ball now lads
- Messi splashes out on £430 bottle of wine for his mum's 57th birthday celebrations Vega-Sicilia Unico is considered to be Spain's greatest vintage
- Sterling's new pad! City star splashes out £3.1m on leafy family home in village The luxury five-acre home has a pond and TRIPLE garage
- Klopp puts Liverpool stars through their defensive paces The manager wants the team to stop conceding silly goals after their defeat by Swansea
- 'Life is tough, my darling, but so are you': Emotional message from Mason's fiancee as he continues recovery His family thanked the football community
- Spurs hold winter training in Barcelona as they hope change of routine helps Premier League push Mauricio Pochettino took them to Spain
- Deulofeu finally joins Milan! Everton winger holds up famous red and black shirt as both clubs confirm loan move He is looking for first-team football in Milan
- Chelsea hero Frank Lampard enjoys night out with wife Christine Bleakley a day after watching City's pulsating Spurs draw Relaxed stars
- United stars feeling the cold at Carrington as Ibrahimovic, Pogba and Co return to training after Stoke draw There was no rest for Jose Mourinho's stars
- Alli's surprise over drug test and a young mascot asks Kane: 'What do you think of Tottenham?' Tunnel cam footage from Manchester City
- Buen provecho! Spurs stars dine out in Barcelona following comeback heroics against City Mauricio Pochettino's men at winter training camp
- Mayweather shows off stunning artwork tribute on Instagram as social media nemesis and father-to-be McGregor poses with partner Will they fight?
- Beckham catches up with ex team-mates as legend returns to PSG Thiago Silva and Co welcomed David Beckham back with open arms
- Portsmouth star Burgess makes most of day off by accepting Twitter invite to help coach Under 12s side Game against Crawley was postponed
- Rooney calls for improved media relations to help England succeed as he picks up Football Writers prize Record-breaker speaks
- Dortmund swoop for Swedish teenager Isak as starlet snubs La Liga giants Real Madrid The 17-year-old has signed a long-term contract
- Matip plays 60 minutes for Liverpool Under 23s after getting green light from FIFA following Africa Cup of Nations row Featured against Ipswich
- Haskell says he wasn't sure he'd ever play again after coming back from six months of injury hell to help Wasps overcome Zebre Targeting Six Nations
- Nike pay tribute to Rooney after United captain becomes club's all-time top scorer Tributes pour in after he lands his 250th goal for the Red Devils
- Bayern Munich stars Ribery and Alaba hit the ski slopes to watch Dave Ryding make British hitory Bundesliga stars see the action
- Cringeworthy canine banners, Olivier Giroud imitations and car-park subbuteo: Six things you missed from Arsenal against Burnley Catch up now
- Tottenham jet off to Barcelona for winter training camp hours after their Etihad draw with Manchester City Pochettino and his squad head to Spain
- Stoke mascot tells boss Hughes he's glad the club didn't sack him and begs Pieters to give him a million pounds! Cheeky fan gives players a laugh before kick-off
- 'Talking of slips...' TV presenter Humphrey jokes with Gerrard in uncomfortable viewing on punditry duty Steven Gerrard took the joke well on BT Sport
- Chapecoense return: First match since air disaster sees revamped team earn a draw Chapecoense drew 2-2 against Brazilian champions Palmeiras
- Rooney's night in front of the TV after breaking record Wayne Rooney's big day ended at home with his wife and kids after hitting United's 250-goal mark
- Arsenal midfielders Iwobi, the Ox and Reine-Adelaide show off their skills with a sockand a dressing room hamper Gunners stars put on a volley good show
- Tevez denies he is the highest paid player in football during unveiling at Shanghai Shenhua Argentine is set to earn £615,000 a week according to reports
- It's back to a tracksuit for Sol: Campbell will ditch the suits and open-neck shirts for a return to football EXCLUSIVE: Campbell is ready to take up coaching
- He's back! Gerrard is all smiles as he returns to Liverpool to coach academy kids and says: 'It completes the circle' Steven Gerrard returns to his former club
- Big Sam broken? Are you having a laugh? Kevin Nolan opens up in exclusive interview He talks through Sam Allardyce, Dimitri Payet and management
TRY OUR SPORT QUIZZES
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FOOTBALL NEWS
Costa's cheeky finish! Chelsea striker scores with his backside during training as they prepare for FA Cup tie with Brentford
Chelsea striker Diego Costa is currently joint top scorer with Alexis Sanchez in the Premier League with 15 goals and the in-form Spain forward has now found another way of finding the net. Chelsea uploaded a video on Facebook of Costa scoring the goal with his bum as his club team-mates watched on at their Cobham training base.
Liverpool legend Gerrard meets up with Chelsea captain Terry ahead of Liverpool vs Chelsea showdown
On the pitch they were captains of rival clubs who regularly battled it out for silverware year in, year out. But with one now retired and the other approaching the end of his career, the pair can begin to put their differences aside. And so it has proved for John Terry and Steven Gerrard, as the Chelsea captain and his former Liverpool counterpart posed happily for a picture on social media.
Burnley midfielder Barton meets hero and snooker legend White but team-mate Flanagan can't resist photobomb chance
Joey Barton has been enjoying his return to the Premier League and the veteran midfielder had something else to smile about as he met one of his childhood heroes on Thursday. Barton took to Instagram to share a photo of himself with former snooker star Jimmy White, saying: 'Met a legend today.' 'Grew up watching Jimmy at the Crucible,' the 34-year-old added. 'I'd sit with my grandad and watch on TV. Every year we'd say 'it's Jimmy's year this one!' #legend.'
I tried to give my 2005 Champions League medal to Kirkland but he said no, says ex-Liverpool keeper Carson
Former Liverpool goalkeeper Scott Carson has revealed that he offered his Champions League-winning medal to Chris Kirkland but he said no.
Karanka reiterates unhappiness with fans and the atmosphere at Boro
Aitor Karanka says he has no regrets and has defended his comments after criticising Middlesbrough’s supporters in the wake of their 3-1 home defeat by West Ham.
Palermo name their 11th boss in TWO seasons with Diego Lopez appointed
Diego Lopez is remarkably the Palermo's fourth boss this term and 11th in two years under long-time president Maurizio Zamparini - with the club having had eight different bosses last season.
Crystal Palace enquire about £10m Lille midfielder Ibrahim Amadou as Sam Allardyce looks to fill holding role
Sam Allardyce is desperate to strengthen his midfield, which has been short ever since Mile Jedinak was sold to Aston Villa. Palace saw a deal for Olympiakos midfielder Luka Milijivojevic stall.
'He will always be special for me': Mason visited in hospital by Pochettino and his Tottenham players
Mauricio Pochettino and his Tottenham players will be Ryan Mason's latest hospital bedside visitors on Thursday as the Hull City midfielder continues to recover after suffering a fractured skull.
Arsenal manager Wenger fighting to avoid stadium ban
Arsene Wenger will hope his ban is restricted to two games from the touchline when he sits in front of a Football Association disciplinary panel on Friday.
As glum Liverpool stars get back to drawing board with season in danger of unravelling, here are the key questions facing Klopp
Liverpool's season suddenly stands on a knife-edge. The expectation of an EFL Cup final date with Manchester United was ripped away from them by a shock defeat against Southampton on Wednesday night. Winless in three games in the Premier League since a stirring victory over Manchester City on New Year's Eve, Jurgen Klopp's side host leaders Chelsea - with the gap standing at an already daunting 10 points. With one win in seven since the turn of the year, even the visit of Wolves in the FA Cup has taken on greater meaning. Here, Sportsmail take a look at five key questions facing Klopp in this season-defining period...
Evra admits he cannot wait to 'taste the madness' after returning to France to join Marseille
The former Manchester United left back Patrice Evra has returned to France after ending his two-and-a-half year stay in Italy with Juventus. Evra admitted a return to his country of birth wasn't in his plans, but says he jumped a the chance to join a club with history - and such a loyal fanbase.
Club No 11 for Eto'o as legend agrees deal with Russian outfit Amkar
Samuel Eto'o looks set to extend his stay in the professional game after joining Russian Premier League side Amkar on a short-term deal. The 35-year-old joins for an undisclosed fee from Antalyaspor, bringing an end to an 18-month spell with the Turkish club and sees him join the 11th different club of his professional career. It will be the second time Eto'o has played in the Russian top flight after his three-year spell with Anzhi Makhachkala between 2011 and 2014, where he was a star attraction for a side backed by oligarch Suleyman Kerimov.
SECRET SCOUT: Peterborough's Lopes is clever on the ball and settling into life in England... he just needs to bulk up
Our scout is a top football expert who attends matches each week searching for the next star. He brings you his verdict in Sportsmail. This week it is Peterborough United's Leonardo Da Silva Lopes.
Croatian wonderkid Halilovic joins Las Palmas on loan from Hamburg
Croatia's youngest ever international Alen Halilovic has joined Las Palmas on loan until the end of next season in a bid to revitalise his promising career.
Aston Villa midfielder Grealish emerges as a target of Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough will explore the possibility of prising Grealish from Villa should Ramirez leave for Leicester, with Claudio Ranieri preparing an improved bid for the forward.
Lincoln can't use cannabis heat lamps ahead of FA Cup clash with Brighton
The club have been using the lamps, which were donated by Lincolnshire police after they were confiscated in cannabis farm raids, for the last two years to prevent frozen pitch postponements.
Sunderland make loan move for Bordeaux's left back Contento
With Patrick van Aanholt is set to link up with former Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce at Selhurst Park, David Moyes has been prompted to scramble for a player to plug the left side of his defence.
Southampton open talks with Spartak Moscow's for defender Tasci
Southampton have opened talks with Spartak Moscow over a loan deal for centre-back Serdar Tasci. The 29-year-old former Germany international is ready to fly in this weekend.
SIX NATIONS COUNTDOWN
Hartley confirmed as England's captain for Six Nations despite latest discipline issues as captains gather for big launch
Hooker Dylan Hartley skippered England to an unbeaten 2016, which included winning the Six Nations Grand Slam last March, so will be out to repeat those feats this year. Ever the performer, Eddie Jones announced the news in jovial style to Hartley in front of the press, revealing he had not told the man to his left prior to the launch event at the Hurlingham Club on Wednesday afternoon.
EXCLUSIVE: Six Nations hunt £100m sponsor with RBS association ending
NIK SIMON: A £100million world record rugby union sponsorship deal is being sought by organisers of the Six Nations. The proposed six-year contract will begin after this year's tournament.
Jones joins England's injury list but coach brushes off swollen eye and focuses on Six Nations preparations
The mystery over Eddie Jones' injury deepened when pictures emerged of the Australian having treatment to stem the flow of blood at the west London launch on Wednesday.
England v France: Win tickets to Six Nations opener at Twickenham
Mail Online has teamed up with Dove Men+Care to offer you the chance to win a pair of tickets to England v France on Saturday, February 4.
OTHER SPORTS NEWS
Joshua attends opening of his state-of-the-art boxing gym in London
Anthony Joshua attended the launch of the state-of-the-art boxing gym which he has invested in on Wednesday. The 27-year-old heavyweight boxer is on the membership committee of BXR London in Marylebone, along with the likes of DJ and producer Mark Ronson, boxing promoter Eddie Hearn and Victoria Secrets models Sara Sampaio and Maryna Linchuk. Joshua was pictured addressing the guests in attendance while in the boxing ring, and he also posed for a snap with model Xenia Tchoumi.
Hamilton challenges fans to design race helmet for new season as British F1 star calls for 'dope new' look
Triple Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has challenged fans to design his race helmet for the new season starting in March. The Mercedes driver launched the competition on Instagram on Thursday, asking: 'Do you want to design my racing helmet for the upcoming F1 season?
British Cycling chiefs hire spin doctor with crisis set to depeen after 'damning' independent review
MATT LAWTON: British Cycling are bracing themselves for a deepening of the current crisis with the publication of an independent UK Sport report that insiders say is 'damning'.
Cormier to defend light-heavyweight title in rescheduled UFC fight with Johnson
The pair were originally due to face each other at UFC 206 in Toronto last month but Cormier was forced to withdraw from the fight just weeks before the event after suffering a partially torn groin.
Jamaica consider appealing decision to strip Usain Bolt of one of his nine Olympic gold medals
Usain Bolt could win back his historic 'triple-triple' of Olympic sprint titles after it emerged Jamaica was considering appealing the decision to strip the 4x100m relay team of its 2008 gold medal.
UFC tickets for Fight Night London 2017: All you need to know about prices and where to buy
The event, which takes place at The O2 in Greenwich, follows a highly-successful one in the capital back in February, where Michael Bisping and Anderson Silva went head-to-head.
Warner and Head propel Australia to victory over Pakistan in final one-dayer in Adelaide
Centurions David Warner and Travis Head marked Australia Day in style with a record-breaking opening stand as the hosts prevailed in an Adelaide run-fest to complete a 4-1 win over Pakistan.
COMPETITION: Win two VIP tickets to walk the red carpet at the Laureus World Sports Awards in Monaco
Sportsmail has teamed up with Laureus to offer readers an exclusive opportunity to win two VIP tickets to the Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony in Monaco.
RACING
Robin Goodfellow's racing tips: Best bets for Friday, January 27
Sportsmail's racing expert Robin Goodfellow dishes out his tips ahead of Friday's meetings at Huntingdon, Taunton, Doncaster and Newcastle.
Champagne West could be worth a punt at Cheltenham following impressive victory at Gowran Park
The Henry de Bromhead-trained gelding had to carry 11st 7lb but his jockey David Mullins never had to get serious with the nine-year-old as he secured a seven-lengths victory.
THE BEST WRITING IN SPORT
'Real Madrid wanted me... maybe I should have gone': He made his Champions League debut at 17 but now McEachran is going back to Stamford Bridge with Brentford
INTERVIEW BY ADAM CRAFTON: It is seven years since England defeated France in the semi-finals of the Under 17 European Championship. For France, a young, gangly Paul Pogba bestrode midfield. Pogba's direct opponents were Josh McEachran and Ross Barkley. Pogba is now a global superstar. For McEachran, it is an awkward comparison, brought into sharper focus as we meet in a Portakabin at Brentford's Osterley training ground
EFL Q&A;: Reading defender McShane on playing with Ronaldo, marking Torres and meeting his hero Keane
The thing that surprises you about Reading central defender Paul McShane is how comparatively few games – 334 - he has played for a 31-year-old who seems to have been around for ages.
MARTIN SAMUEL: Leicester's title was no fluke - show Ranieri some respect
5 POINTS: Why no one gets lucky over 38 games. And on a snap decision that had to be made over whether Ryan Mason's circumstances overrode a straightforward football report.
MARTIN KEOWN: Liverpool do everything at 100mph but I'm not sure they know what they are doing
Sportsmail columnist Martin Keown returned to answer more of your questions as we look ahead to the weekend's FA Cup fourth round action. Liverpool's dismal form was on the agenda.
