Sportsday - Friday, 10 February

That's it for Friday's Sportsday Live. Please keep sending us your news, views and comments via Twitter with the hashtag #bbcsportsday. There will be live text commentary on the Premier League on Saturday, starting with Liverpool's trip to Manchester United.

You can keep up to do date with the scores from the Aviva Premiership clash between Sale and Worcester, and the Stobart Super League match between St Helens and Salford on the BBC website.

There is also radio commentary of Saints' debut at their new Langtree Park on 5live extra.

League Managers Association chairman Richard Bevan joins Colin Murray in the studio.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter says football has become a victim of its own popularity after a number of match-fixing scandals. Speaking at the Confederation of African Football's general assembly in Gabon, the head of world football says the problem is becoming an increasingly widespread worry for FIFA.

Slovakia's Martin Klizan wins the first set 6-2 against Great Britain's James Ward in the second rubber of their Davis Cup tie in Glasgow. Britain leads the match 1-0. Read full live text commentary on the LTA website.

Juan Carlos Ferrero came from behind in the fifth set to beat Mikhail Kukushkin 6-1, 4-6, 7-6 (2), 4-6, 6-4, giving defending Davis Cup champion Spain a 1-0 lead over Kazakhstan in the first round of the World Group.

Serbia took a 2-0 lead over Sweden in the first round of their Davis Cup after Janko Tipsarevic defeated Filip Prpic and Viktor Troicki beat Michael Ryderstedt in the opening singles.

Radio 5live sports presenter and BBC sport rugby league blogger George Riley: "Big night for St Helens 1st SL game at new Langtree Park ground.They need to make opponents hate going there like Knowsley Rd #bbcsportsday"

Blackburn manager Steve Kean believes Yakubu's return is a big boost to Rovers' bid to move out of the Premier League relegation zone. "He's our leading scorer and we've missed him," Kean said. "I think he's quoted as saying that three games felt like three months so it's brilliant for us to have him back."

Italy captain Sergio Parisse is desperate to deliver a historic victory over England at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. "It's going to be very difficult to get a historic result but obviously me and the whole team want this result to repay our supporters and everyone there," he said. "We know that tomorrow we are under huge pressure and have a huge responsibility."

Manchester United winger Nani: "It's always hard not be able to help the team but tomorrow I'll be supporting United together with all of you!"

Kilmarnock skipper Manuel Pascali is out for the rest of the season after breaking his leg in a training ground accident.

Great Britain number one James Ward and Slovakia world number 120 Martin Klizanstart the second rubber of their Davis Cup tie. Britain's Dan Evans beat Lucas Lacko 6-3 7-5 7-5 in the opener in Glasgow. You can read full live text commentary via the LTA website.

World number three and Australian Open finalist MariaSharapova has slumped to a surprise 6-4 6-4 defeat against German Angelique Kerber in the Paris Open quarter-finals.

Former World Player of the Year Romario has criticised Brazil's preparations for the 2014 World Cup, saying he fears it faces embarrassment if work on the country's outdated airports is not speeded up. Now a congressman, Romario said it will be "chaos" unless upgrades don't get started soon.

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez says the prospect of beating Liverpool gives Saturday's Premier League meeting extra edge. "You know in your mind it's Liverpool and it doesn't matter where the teams are in the league, you want to win," Hernandez told BBC Radio Manchester.

Afghanistan suffered a seven-wicket defeat to Pakistan in their first ever one-day international against a Test-playing nation at Sharjah Stadium. Half-centuries from Younus Khan (70 not out) and Imran Farhat (52) ensured Pakistan comfortably chased down Afghanistan's 195 all out with 12.5 overs to spare.

Chris Robshaw has vowed England will go toe-to-toe with Italy in Rome to avoid defeat against an ever-improving side. England made a winning start to their RBS 6 Nations defence in Scotland last week and face another difficult trip on Saturday.

Keir Ramsdale on Twitter: "#bbcsportsday Redknapp would be mad to walk out on Spurs, they actually have a chance of winning stuff now."

Elliot Hackney on Twitter: "No-one yet mentioned Pulis for england, traditional English football the way it was meant to be played #bbcsportsday"

Freddie Leach on Twitter: "Mike Bassett was passionate and reached the World Cup semis. Give Pearce a chance at the Euros and then Redknapp after that #bbcsportsday"

Ulster Rugby chief executive Shane Logan denies that the decision not to offer coach Brian McLaughlin a new contract after this season has been a PR disaster but accepts that the issue "could have been handled better".

Great Britain's Dan Evans beats Slovakia's Lucas Lacko 6-3 7-5 7-5 in their Davis Cup clash in Glasgow to take a 1-0 lead in the match. You can read full live text commentary via the LTA website.

Wales coach Warren Gatland says Leigh Halfpenny is likely to retain the goal-kicking duties for Sunday's Six Nations match with Scotland in Cardiff. Halfpenny took over from Rhys Priestland during Sunday's win over Ireland, landing a last-minute penalty to snatch a 21-23 opening victory.

Herve Renard believes reaching the final of the Africa Cup of Nations has vindicated the decision to reappoint him as Zambia's national coach.

The Professional Cycling Council have announced their intention to rule on the World Tour status of Alberto Contador's Team Saxo Bank-SunGard squad, following the Spaniard's conviction for doping. Team Saxo Bank-SunGard could lose their status among the world's leading teams after Contador was stripped of his 2010 Tour de France victory and handed a two-year ban by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

A statement issued by the International Cycling Union said: "If the points obtained by Alberto Contador, representing approximately 68% of the Saxo Bank-Sungard team's total points, are disregarded, his team would no longer be considered to fulfil the sporting criterion required for the UCI World Tour."

Scotland's David Gourlay has won the Welsh Grand Prix after beating England's Greg Harlow in the final. Gourlay beat Harlow 10-1, 8-4 at the Selwyn Samuel Centre, Llanelli, after overcoming another Englishman, Mervyn King, in the semi-finals.

Former Tottenham defender Gary Mabbutt on 5 live: "I think what is going to happen is they [the FA] will decide who they want and they will have to go into negotiations into what they want.

"It's no surprise that Harry is the favourite for the job. The only surprise is that it's happening now.

"What he has achieved at Tottenham this last couple of seasons is great, he's got great respect in the game, and it would be difficult for him to turn down. But I don't think anything will happen before the end of the season."

Middlesbrough boss Tony Mowbray tells BBC Tees there will be no sentiment for former club Ipswich in the Championship on Saturday.

West Brom boss Roy Hodgson was tight-lipped on whether he would be interested in replacing Fabio Capello as England manager when quizzed on the topic this afternoon.

"Harry's receiving all the backing from virtually all quarters, but it's up to them to decide what they want to do and I don't think it's right for people like myself to say: 'I'm interested or I'm not interested' in the job because I've no idea what the FA have got in mind and what they want to do," Hodgson said.

Following an investigation into Ben Ainslie's actions at the World Championships in December, where he felt he was impeded by a media boat, the findings of an Royal Yachting Association tribunal leave Ainslie free to compete in London 2012.

"I welcome the RYA Tribunal's decision and am looking forward to fully focussing on my Olympic preparations. I deeply regret the incident, but would like to thank all the governing bodies involved for their thorough investigation," Ainslie said.

Warrington forward Garreth Carvell tells BBC Radio Merseyside his side are looking for an improved performance against London Broncos on Sunday.

Hartlepool boss Neale Cooper tells BBC Tees the training facilities available to the club have helped keep the first-team sharp during the recent bad weather.

Great Britain's Dan Evans wins the second set 7-5 against Slovakia's Lucas Lacko, Evans also took the first set 6-3 in their Davis Cup match in Glasgow. You can read full live text commentary via the LTA website.

Brooke Rodgers on Twitter: "#bbcsportsday What about Hiddink? Could start immediately, international pedigree and could see us through the Euros till Harry's free."

Josh Pope on Twitter: "Funny how no one has mentioned Old King Kenny! #bbcsportsday"

Jonathan Gresford on Twitter: "Once spurs fans hear whispers of Mourinho it'll be a case of 'arry who?? good fit all round #bbcsportsday"

Matt Brock on Twitter: "#bbcsportsday Passion on the sidelines is not a pre-requisite for a top manager, Pearce would be a disaster, U21s at the euros were terrible"

The Stade de France has passed a pitch inspection in preparation for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations showdown between France and Ireland. Both teams' traditional eve of match captain's run was cancelled in an attempt to protect the turf from the sub-zero temperatures that have gripped Paris.

Football Association councillor Peter Coates tells BBC Sport that England have not progressed during Fabio Capello's four years in charge.

Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso posts the quickest time on the fourth and final day of pre-season testing in Jerez.

This is how they finished on day four:

Fernando Alonso Ferrari 1:18.877 36 laps

Jean-Eric Vergne Toro Rosso 1:19.597 80

Sebastian Vettel 1:19.606 50

Lewis Hamilton McLaren 1:19.640 86

Romain Grosjean Lotus 1:19.729 91

Kamui Kobayashi Sauber 1:19.834 73

Nico Hulkenberg Force India 1:19.977 87

Bruno Senna Williams 1:20.132 125

Jarno Trulli Caterham 1:22.198 117

Widnes coach Denis Betts tells BBC Radio Merseyside he is defending the Vikings' "iPitch" after criticism following last week's 32-14 defeat at home by Wakefield.

Tranmere manager Les Parry tells BBC Radio Merseyside small margins have been the difference in recent matches, as Rovers prepare for Saturday's game with Preston.

Great Britain's Dan Evans takes the first set 6-3 against Slovakia's Lucas Lacko in their Davis Cup match in Glasgow. You can read full live text commentary via the LTA website.

Saracens have agreed to play the Asia Pacific Barbarians team in the Chartis Cup in Hong Kong this summer. The game will take place at Hong Kong Stadium on 9 June.

Kunle Ogunmodede on Twitter: "#bbcsportsday Fabio Capello could not attend his son's wedding bcos of England friendly yet many questioned his committment 2 d English team"

Stephen Simpson on Twitter: "Is it just me or are England overlooking Ray Wilkins? Reckon he'd do a cracking short term job #bbcsportsday"

Adam Heap on Twitter: "All these compliments for Harry are why he should stay at Spurs! Forget England and take Spurs to the title next year Harry! #bbcsportsday"

Richard Finch on Twitter: "If Spurs falter in the next three months, any involvement with the England team will take the blame. Don't do it Harry! #bbcsportsday"

The Confederation of African Football's general assembly has backed President Issa Hayatou's desire to serve another four years. Last month, the Cameroonian informed the Executive Committee of his wish for one last term.

The League One match between Rochdale and Notts County is the latest game to be postponed with a frozen pitch.

Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has left out in-form Sunderland winger James McClean in his squad for the friendly against the Czech Republic.

Trapattoni said that he had spoken to McClean earlier this week and assured him that he would be involved in the squad "in the future".

Norwich City manager Paul Lambert tells BBC Radio Norfolk that he expects Saturday's game with Swansea to be a close encounter.

Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish has come out fighting ahead of a proposed fans' protest before Sunday's home game with Manchester City and insisted: "I'll get it right at this club.

"I've met some of the fans and I really felt their passion but I think they felt mine as well - and I'm determined I'll get it right at this club."

The weekend's football schedule is being wrecked by the bad weather. The Championship clash between Crystal Palace and Doncaster has been postponed as have League One games at Brentford, Stevenage, MK Dons and Walsall. League Two matches at Accrington, AFC Wimbledon, Barnet, Dagenham, Macclesfield and Port Vale have been called off. There is an update on how the weather has affected the sporting schedule on the BBC Sport website.

Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler tells BBC Radio Kent that he is desperate get back on the pitch and rectify recent defensive mistakes against Burton on Saturday.

Bath director of rugby Sir Ian McGeechan tells BBC Radio Bristol that he wants his team to be confident and "cause problems" in Saturday's game with Newcastle.

Goalkeeper David James says Harry Redknapp's skill of getting the best out of his players marks him out as the ideal candidate for the England manager's job.

James played under Redknapp at Portsmouth and says his man management skills are "second to none" and he "ticks every box".

Daniel Bell on Twitter: "Benitez for England, he is a great cup manager and got the best out of an average Liverpool team #bbcsportsday"

Craig Wheale on Twitter: "Pearce until the Euro's, see how he gets on, nothing to lose! Surely Harry won't be focused on both Spurs and England? #bbcsportsday"

Stuart Cadman on Twitter: "The reason we need Harry as England boss is he's a proven great man manager which is what you need to be great int'l manager #bbcsportsday"

Dan Thomas on Twitter: "Great to see Giggs extend his contract. He'll keep playing till his legs drop off. And even then he'll probably find a way. #bbcsportsday"

New Nottingham Forest loan signing Danny Higginbotham tells BBC Radio Nottingham he is impressed with the quality at the City Ground and is confident they will get the results to climb away from the Championship relegation zone.

BBC Northampton report that Northampton Saints and England forward Courtney Lawes has been named in the Aviva Premiership team's starting XV to face Gloucester on Saturday.

He's been ruled out with a knee injury since early January, but his return for Saints may well prompt a return to England duty from next week, having been named in Stuart Lancaster's original Six Nations squad.

Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson tells BBC Radio Leicester he retains a great deal of belief in his players and insists his side are showing signs of improvement despite recent Championship results not going their way.

South Sudan has been admitted as a provisional member of the Confederation of African Football (Caf).

The move paves the way for it to become the world's newest footballing nation and the 54th member of Caf.

Manchester United have included both Nemanja Vidic and Darren Fletcher in their 38-man Europa League squad even though both players have been ruled out for the season.

Vidic ruptured cruciate ligaments when United's Champions League campaign ended following defeat to Basel in December and Fletcher is taking an extended break from the game in order to recover from a chronic bowel condition.

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez has spoken of his admiration of teammate Ryan Giggs: "Unbelievable. A great player for us, a legend here. He's a good example for players all over the world and we're delighted (he's signed a new contract)."

Hernandez on Liverpool: "In Mexico you know about that rivalry, you know about it all over the world, the history of both teams, the League title and European Cups. It's a very important rivalry but when I came here you learn a little bit more. It's a very different week, you know in your mind it's Liverpool, you want to win that game."

Paris Saint-Germain coach Carlo Ancelotti says he would like to sign striker Carlos Tevez, but the Argentine's wage demands remain a stumbling block.

Amir Khan has told BBC Radio 5 live that he felt cheated in his defeat by Lamont Peterson. He has been granted a rematch with the American in Las Vegas on 19 May. Khan lost his WBA and IBF titles to Peterson on a controversial points decision in December.

Can Harry Redknapp take the England job on a part-time basis while leading Spurs. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger - who has ruled himself out - thinks it is possible in the short-term. Get involved in Sportsday Live on Twitter with the hashtag #bbcsportsday.

Mark Cavendish on Twitter: "Well what could be worse than crashing 150m from the finish line in last stage of #TourOfQatar? Taking a shower with road rash, that's what!"

The crash by Team Sky's Mark Cavendish, moments from the finish, allows Tom Boonen to secure overall victory in the Tour of Qatar. FDJ rider Arnaud Demare outsprinted Denis Galimzyanov (Katusha) and Mark Renshaw (Rabobank) to cross the line first to claim his maiden professional stage victory.

Afghanistan are bowled out for 195 in 48.3 overs in their first-ever one-day international against Pakistan at Sharjah Stadium. Karim Sadiq top-scores with 40 as Pakistan leg-spinner Shahid Afridi takes 5-36 for his eighth five-wicket haul in one-day internationals.

Tottenham forward Rafael van der Vaart is ruled out of tomorrow's game against Newcastle after he fails to overcome the calf injury that kept him out of Monday's draw at Liverpool.

Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell has suffered a minor setback in his recovery from a hamstring problem and will not be risked against Chelsea at home tomorrow.

It's a special evening on Merseyside tonight as St Helens make their competitive bow at the new Langtree Park Stadium when they face Salford. You can read the latest team news on the BBC Sport website.

Dale McAlindon on Twitter: "Redknapp obviously cares more about spurs than england... Get someone who does care... Pearce maybe?"

Tommy Wathen on Twitter: "give the job to Stuart Pearce, the most motivated England coach in years, will wear him heart of his sleeve if given the job!"

Craig Weale on Twitter: "Pearce until the Euros, see how he gets on, nothing to lose! Surely Harry won't be focused on both Spurs and England?"

Former St Helens and Bradford stand-off Leon Pryce will belatedly make his Catalan Dragons debut against Hull at Stade Gilbert Brutus tomorrow. Pryce was withdrawn from last week's opening game at Bradford with a minor hamstring strain. "Leon's fine," confirms Catalan coach Trent Robinson.

Rory McIlroy says he is feeling confident as he and Thomas Bjorn share the lead at the halfway stage of the Dubai Desert Classic. McIlroy set the clubhouse target at 13 under par by adding a 65 to his opening 66. But Bjorn then matched the Ulsterman's round and total. McIlroy says: "I just kept picking up birdies along the way and it puts me in a great position. I feel a lot more confident than I did in Abu Dhabi ."

Australia captain Michael Clarke on Twitter: "Thanks for all your very nice messages. A few more grey hairs but another pretty good win. Bowlers were outstanding tonight."

Austria's Georg Streitberger proves fastest in the third and final training session for the men's World Cup downhill on the course to be used at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. Streitberger clocks a fastest time of 2m 13.95s to finish 0.31s ahead of Switzerland's Beat Feuz.

Brian McDermott, Leeds Rhinos coach, admits they have one eye on next Friday's World Club Challenge against Manly as they prepare for tomorrow's clash with Wigan. "We're mindful of it," says McDermott. "We know we will have to be very good against Manly so we're using these two games to get as many points as we can and also to try to get some form and momentum."

Team Sky's Mark Cavendish crashes on the sixth and final stage of the Tour of Qatar. He has cuts and bruises.

Jamie on Twitter: "Arry has broken the top four without spending like Man City. He's the type of motivator England need in the dressing room."

Kieran Innalls on Twitter: "Can Harry get as much from the Eng team as he does with Spurs? He's with the team every week, not every few months."

Joe Hurst on Twitter: "If Harry takes the job, he'll perpetuate this idiotic notion our senior squad are a match for anyone. Germany showed otherwise."

Stuart Cadman on Twitter: "The reason we need Harry as England boss is he's a proven great man manager which is what you need to be great int'l manager."

The weekend's football schedule is being wrecked by the bad weather. The Championship clash between Crystal Palace and Doncaster has been postponed as have League One games at Brentford, Stevenage, MK Dons and Walsall. League Two matches at Accrington, AFC Wimbledon, Barnet, Macclesfield and Port Vale have been called off. There's an update on how the weather's affected the sporting schedule on the BBC Sport website.

Former England manager Fabio Capello comments further on his decision to resign. In an interview with a satirical Italian television show to be aired tonight, he said: "This wasn't an escape, I left because there was a misunderstanding. I was happy there, but there are moments in which you decide to leave." Asked about his professional future, he said it was "absolutely not" in Italy and that now he wants to "relax". He was interviewed in the Swiss city of Lugano on Thursday.

Britain's Anthony Davidson is confirmed as one Toyota's drivers for their second car at this year's Le Mans 24 Hours. The Japanese manufacturer had been due to run just one car but the withdrawal of Peugeot from sports car racing has prompted them to increase their involvement.

BBC Sport football expert Mark Lawrenson is pitting his wits against different guest pundits over the course of this season. This week he's at risk of being beaten by a bunch of muppets - literally. That's because we have some extra special guests - Kermit and Miss Piggy, stars of the new Muppets movie.

Ragil Pembayun on Twitter: "Can't fathom the love-in media obsession with 'arry. Popular choice doesn't necessarily reflect quality or guarantee trophies."

Ian Glendinning on Twitter: "It's precisely because the England job is seen as a poisoned chalice that we need someone of 'Arry's calibre to grab it."

Paul Ogilvie on Twitter: "Don't understand why everyone presumes Redknapp would walk away from Spurs job... they are flying! Champs League #bbcsportsday."

Captain Michael Clarke's 57 helps Australia win their second consecutive Tri-series match with a tense five-run win over Sri Lanka. Australia made 231 from 49.1 overs before dismissing Sri Lanka for 226 in 49.5 overs.

The sentencing of Mervyn Westfield has been adjourned until Friday 17th February due to "administrative" reasons.

Fernando Alonso puts his Ferrari on top of the timesheets after the morning session on the fourth and final day of pre-season testing in Jerez. Britain's Lewis Hamilton is 0.763 seconds off the pace in third. You can follow live text commentary with Lawrence Barretto on our F1 pages.

Port Vale's home game against Crewe has been postponed.

Kim James on Twitter: "Why can't the media leave well alone? Spurs need Harry. England job is poisoned chalice. #bbcsportsday"

Can Harry Redknapp take the England job on a part-time basis while leading Spurs. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger - who has ruled himself out - thinks it is possible in the short-term. Get involved in Sportsday Live on Twitter with the hashtag #bbcsportsday.

Great Britain's rhythmic gymnastics group will learn if their appeal over their exclusion from the Olympics has been successful in a hearing at the end of this month, British Gymnastics comfirms.

Britain's Paralympics association is celebrating the 200 days to go milestone before the Paralympic games in London by giving tickets to the event to every retired British Paralympics athlete.

German cyclist Jan Ullrich admits having met Spanish doctor Eufemiano Fuentes, who was at the centre of a blood doping ring, calling it a "massive mistake". The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) handed down a two-year ban on Ullrich for a blood doping offence, also annulling all of his results from 1 May 2005.

Sir Alex Ferguson is confident David de Gea's wonder-save at Chelsea can help inspire the goalkeeper. Ferguson says: "I don't know if any other goalkeeper in the country would have saved that shot from (Juan) Mata. His speed and agility is outstanding."

The weather is taking its toll on the opening round of rugby league's NorthernRail Cup on Sunday. London Skolars' home game against Toulouse has been called off because of snow and Swinton's tie at York has been postponed due to the bad weather and pitch conditions.

Amir Khan, who will fight Lamont Peterson, tells BBC Radio 5 live that his oponent must have been scared to fight him - leading to the delay in confirming the fight: "There must have been a fear element. But the amount of money we offered him was too much to turn down." He adds: "I would have loved the fight to have been in England."

The sentencing of Mervyn Westfield, the first county cricketer in England to be prosecuted for spot-fixing, will not start until 1200 GMT at the earliest.

Carl Eatson on Twitter: "It's all very well Shearer & all saying they want Harry now but #THFC still have a lot to play for."

England score 231-3 in 45.5 overs to beat England Lions by seven wickets, reaching a self-imposed target, as Jonathan Trott top-scores with an unbeaten 75.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists international management is not for him but feels the England job could be done part-time in the short term. He stands by his views the next boss must be home grown, adding: "England is a big football country with over 65 million people who have a big passion for the game."

In the Davis Cup, Croatia are tied with Japan at 1-1 as Ivo Karlovic beats Kei Nishikori 6-4 6-4 6-3.

US Women's Open champion So Yeon Ryu shoots a 4-under 69 to take a one-stroke lead over fellow South Korean player Hee Kyung Seo after the second round of the LPGA Tour's season-opening Women's Australian Open.

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish cheekily hints that Manchester United rival and fellow Scot, Sir Alex Ferguson, should be the next England boss. He says: "If you are looking for a manager I think you look for the one with the best record since the Premier League started of looking after English-British players and the success they have had." But discussing Harry Redknapp, he adds: "Harry would be fantastic."

It is understood that the sentencing of Mervyn Westfield, the first county cricketer in England to be prosecuted for spot-fixing, will not start until 1130 GMT at the earliest. The hearing at the Old Bailey is likely to last at least an hour before final sentencing takes place.

BBC Radio 5 live's Mike Sewell at Harry Redknapp's press conference: "If he didn't want the job he would have ruled himself out straight away - it would get rid of carnival that is surrounding the FA and Tottenham. He does not think it can be done in a duel-capacity. He said everything is hypothetic at the moment. He spoke to Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy yesterday who had not heard anything from the FA. There has been no approach yet, so there is no question to answer."

Kettering Town will play their Blue Square Bet Premier match against AFC Telford behind closed doors. Northamptonshire Police say Kettering have missed successive payment deadlines for policing costs to cover the game. A statement from the Kettering Town Supporters Trust reads: "[We] now fear that KTFC is all but dead. The two home games this week were to be the launch pad for the Trust to commence very serious money raising."

More from Sir Alex Ferguson on the idea of Harry Redknapp sharing the England job with his role as Tottenham boss: "That's a difficult one. I tried that myself with Aberdeen, with Scotland in Mexico, and found it very difficult."

To mark the 200-days-to-go milestone (Saturday 11 February) to the London 2012 Paralympic Games, the British Paralympic Association will give two tickets to the London Games to every retired Paralympian who has ever represented Great Britain at the Paralympic Games.

"Tottenham manager Redknapp admits he'd have to consider the England job if he's offered it. He admits he's flattered by being favourite and players backing him. Redknapp says there has been no approach yet and rules out a dual-role with Spurs and England. He wouldn't comment on what he'd have done about John Terry had he been England boss."

Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs signs a one-year extension to his contract. It's a deal that will see the Welshman complete his 21st season as a first-team player at Old Trafford.

Rory McIlroy on Twitter: "Another great day in Dubai! Exciting weekend ahead.... Now for an afternoon nap!"

Rory McIlroy is the clubhouse leader on 13 under par after two rounds of the Dubai Desert Classic, two shots clear of Martin Kaymer. "I was never really under pressure in any point of the round,'' said McIlroy, the 2009 champion who has led going into the weekend for the past four years.

"This was very stress-free golf; fairways most of the time, a lot of greens, and gave myself a lot of looks. So overall, really pleased with how I played today. Obviously looking forward to the weekend.

"I was very pleased with how I drove the ball today. That has been a huge positive. Coming into this week, I didn't feel I drove the ball well at all in Abu Dhabi. I've put that right for the most part and felt really confident off the tee.''

BBC horse racing correspondent Cornelius Lysaght reports: "Officials at Newbury have asked the British Horseracing Authority to re-schedule Saturday's valuable programme after snow forced it's abandonment. Last year, the fixture, called off after two horses were electrocuted in a freak accident in the paddock, finally took place six days later. Meanwhile, the sole remaining Saturday jump racing fixture in Britain, at Musselburgh, is expected to go ahead as planned."

femifems on Twitter: "So Amir Khan gets his wish. Time for him to walk the talk. A second failure against the same man and he's done for."

England move on to 132-1 after 27 overs of their tour match against England Lions. Replying to 96 with a self-imposed victory target of 230, England lost Kevin Pietersen to Chris Woakes for 41. Alastair Cook is 62 not out and Jonathan Trott unbeaten on 25.

Ferguson on Redknapp: "There is no doubt Harry Redknapp is the best man. The press have decided. Harry is the best man. He has the experience and personality and the knowledge of the game. He has changed the fortunes of every club he has been at. He is the right choice. You should try to get the best man with the best qualities. A young manager has no chance."

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson backs Harry Redknapp as "the best man" to succeed Fabio Capello as England boss.

BBC Sport's Steven Wyeth reports that Tom Cleverley will be in the Manchester United squad for Saturday's Premier League meeting with Liverpool at Old Trafford, according to United boss Sir Alex Ferguson. Chris Smalling, Ferguson says, has a chance of returning.

Sticking with tennis, Britain's Davis Cup meeting with Slovakiastarts at the Braehead Arena in Glasgow today. Keep across the BBC Sport website and @bbcsport on Twitter for all the latest.

Did you miss Thursday's 5 live Sport Special, 'An Evening with the Murrays'? If so, you can listen again as BBC tennis correspondent Jonathan Overend talks to Andy Murray, his mother Judy and brother Jamie at Edinburgh's National Museum of Scotland. The British number one chats in-depth about his career, new coach Ivan Lendl and the London Olympics. You can also read Jonathan blog on the subject, 'Into the mind of Murray'.

Wenger also says he expects forward Andrey Arshavin to be at the club after 24 February, which is when the Russian transfer window shuts. "That is clear," the Frenchman states.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger: "The England job can be done on a short-term basis, yes, on long term, no." On reports linking him with the role, Wenger adds: "I have always respected contracts in my life and have never been tempted by the national team job. In the future I don't know. What I do demands a lot of physical power and that might not always be the case."

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger confirms on-loan striker Thierry Henry will return to New York Red Bulls on 16 February, the day after the first leg of the Gunners' Champions League last-16 meeting with AC Milan. "I would have loved Thierry to stay for two more weeks but he has to go back," says Wenger. "It's only fair on New York." Give your reaction on Twitter using the hashtag #bbcsportsday and follow us @bbcsport.

Former West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwansigns a deal to become the overseas player for Leicestershirein 2012.

Great Britain gets off to a strong start at the Para-Cycling Track World Championships in Los Angeles by winning gold and silver in its first two events. Paralympic Champion Sarah Storey won the C5 500m Time Trial. The other British success came in the Women's B/Vi 3km Pursuit as Lora Turnham - piloted by Fiona Duncan - and Aileen McGlynn - piloted by Helen Scott - triumphed.

Liverpool legend Tommy Smith is selling off his medal collection to provide for his family. The auction will feature 75 items, including Smith's 1977 European Cup winners' medal, 1965 FA Cup winners' medal and match-worn shirt, and St Etienne striker Dominique Rochteau's shirt from the Reds' historic meeting with the French giants in 1977.

A quick update from round two of the Dubai Desert Classic, where Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy heads the field on 12 under par after 16 holes. Germany's Martin Kaymer is a shot off the lead.

In the tour match in Abu Dhabi, England reach 72-0 against England Lions, with Alastair Cook 32 not out and Kevin Pietersen unbeaten on 38. After the Lions were dismissed for 96, England set themselves a victory target of 230.

chrisy_21 on Twitter: "If Amir Khan wins his rematch, does it not open the floodgates for peterson to appeal for a rematch. Best of 3 Anyone!?!?"

On the subject of Amir Khan's rematch against Lamont Peterson, promoter Frank Warren tells BBC Radio 5 live: "I will think it will be a tough fight for him, Peterson feels he has his number. Going to Vegas, any doubts about judging will go out the window. I do feel Peterson will give him a tough fight.

"[Losing] would really set him right back, he has to win the fight to be in the big picture, to do the big fights and if he wants fight the likes of Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, these are the rights he has to win."

BBC Sport chief F1 writer Andrew Benson on Twitter: "And Alonso starts day with a bang. Ferrari might not be happy with new car, but he's done a 19.289 to put him in Vettel/Hamilton territory."

Join Lawrence Barretto for live text commentary of day four of testing in Jerez.

Stay across the BBC Sport website and Radio 5 live for previews to Sunday's meeting between Wales v Scotland at the Millennium Stadium.

Previewing Saturday's match between France v Ireland in Paris, former Ireland lock Malcolm O'Kelly has urged his side to take the game to their opponents after last weekend's 23-21 defeat by Wales. "Brian O'Driscoll'sboots are incredibly hard to fill and we saw that on Saturday. Ireland sat back and let Wales play.

"They have to close down the French and can't allow them to play. They have to limit the mistakes, be cohesive and play with belief. It's vital they pick up the pressure and tempo. That's when Ireland are at their best. We need to see that back in Irish game instead of the passiveness."

Former England hooker Mark Regan tells BBC Radio 5 live he is "slightly apprehensive" ahead of Italy v England in Rome on Saturday. "This is Italy's best chance in a long time of beating England. I'm very wary of their forwards."

Of England head coach Stuart Lancaster's decision to name an unchanged team from the 13-6 victory in Scotland, Regan added: "Stuart is giving these guys another chance. He has shown belief and trust in the team to name the same side, leave someone like Toby Flood out and I think it's the right move.

"The forwards have got to put a platform together for the backs. They've got their work cut out against this Italian pack. They're very buoyant and can't wait to get their hands on the England pack."

Join Lawrence Barretto for the fourth and final day of pre-season testing in Jerez. Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso are all in action.

Who is The Chaser? Watch a sneak preview of Ultimate Sports Day on CBBC - and see if you can solve the mystery. Here's a clue: he/she has Olympic pedigree.

Luol Deng on Twitter: "Words can't describe how happy I am to make my first all star. Thanks to all my supporters especially the coaches who voted for me. #Honored"

Great Britain star Luol Deng of the Chicago Bulls is named to the NBA's All-Star Game for the first time in his career. Deng, 26, is in his seventh season with the Bulls and is averaging 16 points and 7.3 rebounds per game.

Tight-head prop Rupert Harden signs a new contract with Gloucester. Harden, who joined the Cherry and Whites in 2009, has just spent two weeks with the England Saxons. His club have not specified the length of his new deal.

"If England play simple rugby, they'll win" - read Jeremy Guscott's column on what to expect from the England Six Nations meeting with Italy in Rome on Saturday.

In Perth, meanwhile, Australia are dismissed for 231 against Sri Lanka in the third one-day international.

Jade Dernbach takes three wickets as England bowl England Lions out for 96 in 28.3 overs in their tour match in Abu Dhabi. In reply, Alastair Cook and Kevin Pietersen lead England to 18-0.

Whether you want to talk about the England job, Amir Khan's rematch against Lamont Peterson, Sarah Stevenson's Olympic fitness battle or any other sports news, let us know on Twitter using the hashtag #bbcsportsday and we'll publish the best ones throughout the day.

Good morning and welcome to Sportsday Live on Friday, 10 February. We start with three tales from a gossip column dominated by speculation that Harry Redknapp will be appointed as the new England manager.

The Football Association will have to pay Tottenham a \u00a35m 'transfer fee' to install Redknapp. (Daily Mirror)

But Spurs will reject any approach from the FA to appoint Redknapp before the end of the Premier League season. (Evening Standard)

Britain may not have seen the last of Capello - he is Chelsea's choice of manager if Roman Abramovich decides to fire Andre Villas-Boas. (the Sun)