Lewandowski scores FIVE in NINE minutes... and he was only a sub! Bayern Munich hitman makes history with sensational spree

Bayern Munich star Robert Lewandowski scores FIVE goals in nine minutes to hammer

With his team trailing Wolfsburg 1-0 at half-time, Robert Lewandowski came on to change the game for Bayern Munich by scoring an incredible FIVE goals in the space of just nine minutes. The Bundesliga champions, who went into the game with last season's second placed team carrying a 100 per cent record, were disappointing as they fell behind to a goal from Daniel Caligiuri in the first half - prompting Pep Guardiola to make a change. And his decision to bring on the Poland hitman was an inspired one. Lewandowski, pictured above celebrating his phenomenal feat with his wife, broke Bundesliga records. Elated boss Guardiola said: 'Football is crazy sometimes'.

Chelsea fuming as Costa is banned for three-matches but Arsenal's Gabriel is let off the hook despite red card

Chelsea striker Diego Costa handed three-match retrospective ban by the FA after clash

Diego Costa has been handed a retrospective three-game ban after his spat with Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny on Saturday. The Chelsea striker appeared to claw at the Frenchman's face as they battled for the ball during a feisty London derby at Stamford Bridge. Costa went unpunished at the time but has since picked up a charge of violent conduct, for which he has been given a three-match ban.

Ford OUT... Burgess IN: England make big changes for clash with Wales

Rugby Union - England Training - Pennyhill Park, Bagshot, Surrey - 22/9/15
 England's Sam Burgess during training
 Action Images via Reuters / Henry Browne
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Sam Burgess will be unleashed in England's starting team against Wales on Saturday and George Ford is to be ousted at fly-half by Owen Farrell for the World Cup showdown.

Carneiro v Mourinho row deepens as axed doctor fails to return to Chelsea with club braced for legal fight

Chelsea's doctor Eva Carneiro appears to have an argument with Jose Mourinho manager of Chelsea during the Barclays Premier League match between Chelsea and Swansea played at Stamford Bridge, London, England.


Editorial use only. No merchandising. For Football images FA and Premier League restrictions apply inc. no internet/mobile usage without FAPL license - for details contact Football Dataco
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Michael Zemanek/BPI/REX (4931278ae)

MATT LAWTON: Chelsea and Eva Carneiro are understood to have parted company, with the champions now bracing themselves for a legal battle.

Wenger to divorce wife after Arsenal boss's separation is 'made official'

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND - JANUARY 17:  Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger (R) and wife Annie Wenger attend the IWC Top Gun Gala Event at 22nd SIHH High Jewellery Fair on at the Palexpo Exhibition Hall January 17, 2012 in Geneva, Switzerland.  (Photo by Dave M. Benett/Getty Images for IWC)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has separated from his wife, according to The Sun. The newspaper claims that Wenger and partner Annie had a 'separation of bodies' judgment issued.

MARTIN SAMUEL: Diego Costa may be a nasty piece of work but there's a grudging admiration for him

Arsenal's Brazilian defender Gabriel (L) and Chelsea's Brazilian-born Spanish striker Diego Costa (2nd R) are separated by Arsenal's Czech goalkeeper Petr Cech (C) as they clash during the English Premier League football match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge in London on September 19, 2015. AFP PHOTO / IAN KINGTON \n\nRESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications.        (Photo credit should read IAN KINGTON/AFP/Getty Images)

Diego Costa is that guy. You know That Guy. The one everyone hates; the villain. There remains some grudging admiration for Costa. He is That Guy. And he just doesn't care.

Van Gaal angered at Rojo's failure to reveal extent of hamstring knock

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 20:  Marcos Rojo of Manchester United evades James Ward-Prowse of Southampton during the Barclays Premier League match between Southampton and Manchester United at St Mary's Stadium on September 20, 2015 in Southampton, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty Images)

Marcos Rojo has infuriated Louis van Gaal but failing to reveal the extend of an injury to force him off against Southampton on Sunday. 

Aguero, De Bruyne and Sterling pile on pain for sorry Sunderland as City show no mercy

Sunderland 1-4 Manchester City: Sergio Aguero, Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling all

SUNDERLAND 1-4 MANCHESTER CITY - CRAIG HOPE AT THE STADIUM OF LIGHT: If ever proof was needed of the gulf in class between the top and bottom of the Premier League then this was it. League leaders City were simply devastating, rock-bottom Sunderland disastrous.

England ace Barkley provides the magic as Everton bounce back to beat Reading and keep Capital One Cup dream alive

Reading 1-2 Everton: Gerard Deulofeu and Ross Barkley help Toffees come from behind for

READING 1-2 EVERTON - RIATH AL-SAMARRAI AT THE MADEJSKI STADIUM: Ross Barkley and Gerard Deulofeu produced a goal apiece to take Everton through to the fourth round of the Capital One Cup, despite a scare against Championship side Reading. The Madejski outfit took the lead in the first half through Nick Blackman and held onto it until the 62nd minute, when Everton's quality finally shone through.

King is royalty at Leicester after extra time winner breaks West Ham's hearts

LEICESTER 2-1 WEST HAM (AET) SAM CUNNINGHAM AT THE KING POWER STADIUM: Andy King struck in the second half of extra-time to put Leicester through.

Gestede heads Villa into fourth round in derby win over rivals Birmingham

Rudy Gestede celebrates scoring the opening goal during the Capital One Cup match between Aston Villa and Birmingham City played at Villa Park, Birmingham

ASTON VILLA 1-0 BIRMINGHAM - LAURIE WHITWELL: When the goal came, Villa Park erupted and Tim Sherwood looked to the skies.

Bournemouth survive scare as Preston pay the penalty in third-round exit

PRESTON 2-2 BOURNEMOUTH (2-3 ON PENS, AET) - JOE BERNSTEIN: Bournemouth survived two late goals to edge into the Capital One Cup fourth round.

Crouch makes Fulham pay as Stoke boss Hughes haunts his former club

Stoke City's Peter Crouch scores his sides first goal

FULHAM 0-1 STOKE - JAMES ANDREW AT CRAVEN COTTAGE: Peter Crouch scored his first goal of the season as Stoke booked their place in the fourth round.

Remember us? Relegated Hull stun Swansea after Meyler fires winner

HULL 1-0 SWANSEA: Steve Bruce's Hull have edged into the Capital One Cup fourth round after beating Swansea as David Meyler scored the winner from close-range.

Adomah scores twice as Boro beat rivals Wolves to march on in the cup

MIDDLESBROUGH, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22:  Albert Adomah of Middlesbrough celebrates his goal during the Capital One Cup third round match between Middlesbrough and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Riverside Stadium on September 22, 2015 in Middlesbrough, England.  (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

MIDDLESBROUGH 3-0 WOLVES - KIERAN GILL AT THE RIVERSIDE STADIUM: Middlesbrough secured their sixth consecutive win against Wolves.

REVEALED: Kaka is highest earner in US above Gerrard and Pirlo as MLS publish list of every players' salary (and Bradley Wright-Phillips takes home MORE than his brother)

MLS player salaries revealed: Kaka is the division's highest earner, but why does Bradley

The practice of past-it players migrating to the MLS to play out the twilight of their careers is no new trick.  And with a chance to extend their stay on the pitch just a little longer and collect a handsome pay-packet at the same time, it's not hard to see why. As the MLS Players Union released the details of salaries on Tuesday, there were more than a few observations that raised eyebrows for one reason or another.

'And they say Diego Costa is physical!' Davies shows off scars from Hull's shock win over Swansea... but who mauled Tigers ace?

Curtis Davies makes light of Diego Costa scratch after showing off battle scars from Hull

Hull defender Curtis Davies took to Twitter to show three huge scratches on the side of his face which came from an unidentified Swansea player during the third round tie.

Wilson 'not needed': Van Gaal won't pick young striker in Capital One Cup

Young Manchester United striker James Wilson will have to wait for a first team start after Louis van Gaal effectively ruled him out of Wednesday night's Capital One Cup tie with Ipswich at Old Trafford.

Pressure lifts on Moyes as Agirretxe hat-trick seals Sociedad's first win

epa04944228 Real Sociedad's coach David Moyes during the Spanish Primera Division soccer match between Granada and Real Sociedad played at Nuevo los Carmenes stadium in Granada, southern Spain, 22 September 2015.  EPA/MIGUEL ANGEL MOLINA

The pressure on David Moyes lifted last night after Real Sociedad sealed their first win of the season thanks to a hat-trick from striker Imanol Agirretxe in a 3-0 victory over Granada.

Giroud set for audition against Spurs as he eyes leading role ahead of Theo

LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 28:  Theo Walcott and Olivier Giroud of Arsenal during the 1st team photocall at Emirates Stadium on July 28, 2015 in London, England.  (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

NEIL ASHTON: After nearly two decades winning the battle with Tottenham for north London supremacy, Arsene Wenger is watching another healthy rivalry take shape.

Sherwood refutes Birmingham boss Rowett's claim over Villa 'mole' leaking team news after winning derby rumble

Aston Villa's victory over Birmingham City was followed by needling comments between the rival managers, with Gary Rowett claiming he knew Tim Sherwood's team selection on Monday.

Sir Clive Woodward meets Eddie Jones...
'You shocked the world once against South Africa, now can you beat Scotland today?'

Japan coach Eddie Jones tells Sir Clive Woodward how his side have shocked the Rugby World

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW - SIR CLIVE WOODWOOD (PICTURES BY ANDY HOOPER): The Cherry and Whites are always revered down at Kingsholm so I'm expecting a rapturous reception for the Cherry Blossoms today. A sort of homecoming. Hardcore rugby fans acknowledging diehard warriors. Japan even wear the same colours as Gloucester and I'm told they bowed en masse to the Shed after their recently friendly with Georgia there.

Roberts ready to tackle England rookie Burgess before Wales ace heads off to uni

Jamie Roberts confident of handling Sam Burgess threat as Wales prepare to face England

NIK SIMON: Jamie Roberts has spent years at university to qualify as a doctor but in the last few weeks his studies have been of an entirely different nature.The Wales centre has been analysing the opposition players he is likely to face in the World Cup, particularly those among his Pool A rivals.

SIR CLIVE WOODWARD: Lancaster change is a big call... but Farrell is hard-as-nails and close to best form

This change to the England midfield is a big call. Owen Farrell is a hard-as-nails player with a big-match temperament and close to his best form again.

Commentator backed by ITV after 20st Fiji beast Nadolo calls him a 'muppet'

Fiji's wing Nemani Nadolo attends the captain's run at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, south Wales, on September 22, 2015, on the eve of their 2015 Rugby World Cup match against Australia.   AFP PHOTO / MARTIN BUREAU
RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USEMARTIN BUREAU/AFP/Getty Images

CHARLES SALE: ITV Sport are supportive of lead commentator Nick Mullins, who described as a 'muppet' by Fiji's Nemani Nadolo for saying villagers would be watching games on one TV.

England call up the heavy mob as Lancaster makes huge gamble

CHRIS FOY: Twickenham will reverberate to the thunderous soundtrack of heavyweight collisions. England have decided to opt for the route one approach.

Clashing cousins... Fiji's Nadolo set for battle with Australian Kuridrani

CARDIFF, WALES - SEPTEMBER 22:  Tevita Kuridrani of Australia in action during the Australia Captain's Run ahead of the 2015 Rugby World Cup Pool A match against Fiji at the Millennium Stadium on September 22, 2015 in Cardiff, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

NIK SIMON: Cardiff's Millennium Stadium is a long way from the Fijian beach where Tevita Kuridrani and Nemani Nadolo used to tackle each other during the summer holidays.

NFL super agent is on World Cup scouting mission to find new star

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 20:  Jarryd Hayne #38 and Mike Davis #22 of the San Francisco 49ers walk off of the field following their 43-18 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers during at Heinz Field on September 20, 2015 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  (Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)

NIK SIMON'S WORLD CUP DIARY: NFL super agent Jack Bechta is on a scouting mission at the World Cup to poach some of the best players.  'It is more challenging than people think,' he claimed.

Food, glorious food... but what exactly is fuelling the big boys during the World Cup?

Food, glorious food: What the big boys are munching during the 2015 Rugby World Cup

Weighing up to 22st 11lb, the giants of the World Cup need their fair share of good food to keep them going. Kitchen staff use nutritional science to devise menus that fuel players with up to 6,000 calories per day. 'Our nutrition programmes come from lab-based research,' said England's nutrition consultant Graeme Close. 'If we get the food right, we can get those extra percentages out of the players.'

London calling: France take in tour of the capital as they prepare to tackle Romania in Stratford

France players take in the sights of London ahead of upcoming clash with Romania

France kicked off their Rugby World Cup campaign with victory against Italy at Twickenham last Saturday. Frederic Michalak put in a superb kicking performance in the 32-10 win and Les Tricolores will be hoping to continue their winning ways on Wednesday.

Habana urges bruised South Africa to forget Japan and focus on Samoa test

Mental focus must be much higher for South Africa as they anticipate a bruising clash with Samoa in their second Rugby World Cup Pool B match after the shock defeat by Japan, Bryan Habana warned.

Gerrard was right... St George's Park IS boring, claims Ireland back Kearney

Ireland's wing Dave Kearney catches the ball during an Ireland team training session at the Millennium stadium in Cardiff on September 18, 2015  ahead of the 2015 Rugby Union World Cup. AFP PHOTO / DAMIEN MEYER
RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USEDAMIEN MEYER/AFP/Getty Images

Dave Kearney has agreed with former Liverpool star Steven Gerrard that England FA's training HQ is boring, with little to do other than train for next Sunday's second World Cup match.

Kop that! Liverpool flop Balotelli reminds Rodgers what he's capable of as striker hits amazing free-kick for AC Milan at Udinese

Liverpool flop Mario Balotelli rediscovers scoring touch as striker nets stunning

Mario Balotelli, the maverick striker cast out by Liverpool on loan to AC Milan this season, scored a stunning free-kick during the Serie A match against Udinese on Tuesday night. The 25-year-old, who joined Liverpool from Milan in a £16million deal last summer, managed just four goals during a torrid, solitary campaign at the Merseyside club, before being loaned back.  Yet, against Udiese, there appeared to be no doubt of the Italian's talents, as he fired a rocket-shot from a 30-yard dead ball situation to give Milan a 1-0 lead in the fifth minute.

You've got no fans! Just 15 minutes from Atletico, not a single supporter turned up to watch Getafe lose

Zero Getafe supporters turn up for defeat at Atletico Madrid despite clubs being separated

In theory, Atletico Madrid away should have been one of the easiest trips of the season for Getafe supporters. Little over 12 kilometres separates their home ground, the Coliseum Alfonso Perez, from Atletico's Vicente Calderon. However, not a single Getafe fan attended the match, with the away section of the ground empty.

Navas reveals he was in tears over collapsed move to Manchester United

Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas has revealed he cried when his move to Manchester United fell through, but insists he never wanted to leave the Spanish capital on transfer deadline day.

I was absolutely f***ing delighted to beat Van Gaal with Ireland, says McCarthy as rivals prepare for cup tie

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When the dulcet Yorkshire tones of Mick McCarthy drift over to the home side's technical area at Old Trafford on Wednesday they may trigger a chill down the spine of Louis van Gaal.

Liverpool legend Dalglish puts 1984 European Cup winner's medal up for sale to raise money for cancer charity 

ROME, ITALY - MAY 30:  (From left to right) Liverpool players Steve Nicol, Kenny Dalglish, Alan Hansen (obscured), Gary Gillespie, and captain Greaeme Souness celebrate with the trophy after winning the UEFA European Cup Final between AS Roma and Liverpool FC held on May 30, 1984 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, Italy. The match ended in a 1-1 after extra-time, with Liverpool winning the match and trophy 4-2 on Penalties. (Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Kenny Dalglish has put his 1984 European Cup winner's medal up for auction to help raise money for his wife's breast cancer charity, the Marina Dalglish Appeal.

Rio Olympics opening and closing ceremonies to be low-budget events

Meirelles does not want to waste money 'where we need sanitation; where education needs money'

The opening and closing ceremonies for Rio Olympics and Paralympics will be low-budget productions compared to three years ago in London, or in Beijing in 2008 as austerity bites in Brazil.

Open amateur hero Dunne turns pro following Walker Cup victory

Irishman Paul Dunne, who was joint leader after the third round of this year's Open Championship, has turned professional.

'Premier League is our biggest competitor': Barca chief Bartomeu follows Fergie's lead and delivers seminar for Harvard students

Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu tells Harvard University students: 'The Premier League

Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu went back to school on Tuesday when he took questions from Harvard Business School students via a live video link-up to the directors box at the Nou Camp. A case study of Barça's business model, and the way it differs from the big Premier League clubs is now on Harvard's curriculum and president Bartomeu took question from students during their morning class.

Ibrahimovic finally off the mark in Ligue 1 along with Di Maria as PSG impress in win over Guingamp

PSG 3-0 Guingamp: Zlatan Ibrahimovic gets off the mark but misses from the spot as French

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Angel di Maria are off the mark in Ligue 1 this season after both scored in Paris Saint-Germain's comfortable three points at home against Guingamp. They struck in the second half after Argentina midfielder Javier Pastore put the hosts ahead with a neat finish in the 18th minute.

I can't believe how good Ibra is! Di Maria raves about his new PSG pal

Paris St Germain's Zlatan Ibrahimovic reacts during his French Ligue 1 soccer match against Reims at Auguste Delaune stadium in Reims, France, September 19, 2015. REUTERS/Charles Platiau

Former Manchester United winger Angel Di Maria says he did not realise how good a player Zlatan Ibrahimovic was until he arrived at Paris Saint-Germain in the summer.

Kroenke poised for another £3m payment from Arsenal as they prepare to reveal financial accounts

Stan Kroenke has risked outrage from Arsenal fans as the club prepare to announce a second £3m payment to a company he owns. Arsenal will reveal their accounts in the next 24 hours.

Newcastle will review transfer policy after signings woe, admits McClaren

Steve McClaren says winless Newcastle will review their transfer policy after spending £52million on foreign players and admits they have already talked of January investment.

Hamilton looks to get over Singapore woes as F1 king poses with his new Mercedes 'whip' - worth £165,000 - ahead of Japan GP

Lewis Hamilton poses with his 'new whip'... a £165,000 Mercedes Maybach as he prepares for

Lewis Hamilton appears to have recovered from his failed finish at the Singapore Grand Prix after showing off his expensive new set of wheels.

Meet the former Chelsea kid hoping to weather the storm against his former club as Walsall bid to pull off cup shock

Walsall goalkeeper Neil Etheridge hoping to weather the storm against Chelsea... and is

EXCLUSIVE BY LAURIE WHITWELL: Neil Etheridge once had to cancel a trip to the top of Mount Everest, but the Walsall goalkeeper is confident of ascending the challenge of Chelsea.

Kane backed by boss Pochettino to end his barren spell against Gunners

ENFIELD, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22:  Harry Kane of Tottenham Hotspur arrives during Tottenham Hotspur Training Session at Hotspur Way on September 22, 2015 in Enfield, England.  (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is backing Harry Kane to end his barren goalscoring run against Arsenal in Wednesday's Capital One Cup tie at White Hart Lane.

Deila won't break the bank for Cole, despite striker edging close to move

22/09/15 
CELTIC TRAINING 
LENNOXTOWN 
Celtic Manager (right) and Carlton Cole during training.

Ronny Deila has vowed he will not smash Celtic's wage structure to land Carlton Cole, despite admitting he may have found a new target man in the former West Ham and Chelsea striker.

Hull star Livermore returns to action for the first time after failing drugs test

Football - Hull City v Swansea City - Capital One Cup Third Round - The Kingston Communications Stadium - 22/9/15
 Hull City's Jake Livermore during the warm up
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Jake Livermore starts his first game for Hull City since May in the Capital One Cup against Swansea on Tuesday night after failing a drugs test last season.

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New-look Olympic Stadium to be unveiled at Rugby World Cup as France face Romania

New-look Olympic Stadium to be unveiled at Rugby World Cup as France face Romania

Pictures have been released of the Olympic Stadium in all its glory ahead of Wednesday's Rugby World Cup clash between France and Romania. Fans can see the rugby posts in position as the stadium prepares to welcome fans from both sides following its successful conversion.  The 55,000-seat stadium, which cost more than £700million in total after conversion, hosted the Barbarians' clash with Samoa in August as a warm up.

France inspired by Bolt and Farah as they train in Olympic Stadium before Romania match

France players inspired by Usain Bolt and Mo Farah as they train in Olympic Stadium before

France Flanker Yannick Nyanga admitted he and his team-mates will 'imagine ourselves in the place of the athletes' in their second Pool D clash against Romania at the Olympic Stadium.

Aussies vow Hooper and Pocock selection was no-brainer as Moore takes captain's run

Michael Cheika insists Michael Hooper and David Pocock selection was no-brainer as Stephen

Australia head coach Michael Cheika says that rocket science was not required in his decision to start both of the Wallabies' brilliant openside flankers against World Cup opponents Fiji. Michael Hooper and David Pocock will feature at the Millennium Stadium on Wednesday - Pocock wears the No 8 shirt - when the Wallabies target an opening game victory in a pool that also includes host nation England and 2011 World Cup semi-finalists Wales.

Cotter's Scotland can write their own blockbuster against Japan... but will it be an epic thriller or a horror story?

JOHN GREECHAN: If their attention could be diverted from the blossoming storyline surrounding Japan, the boys in Hollywood would love the whole Scotland angle on this Rugby World Cup. 

Japan coach Jones claims his Brave Blossoms can run Scotland ragged

Japan players warm up during the captain's run at the Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday September 22, 2015. See PA story RUGBYU Japan. Photo credit should read: David Davies/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: Editorial use only. Strictly no commercial use or association without RWCL permission. Still image use only. Use implies acceptance of Section 6 of RWC 2015 T&Cs at:http://bit.ly/1MPElTL Call +44 (0)1158 447447 for further info.

Eddie Jones will tell his Japan side to 'run Scotland off their feet' this afternoon as he bids to show the rugby world that their stunning triumph over South Africa was no fluke.

INTERACTIVE GUIDE: Everything you need to know about Rugby World Cup

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With the Rugby World Cup upon us, Sportsmail has produced the ultimate guide to the tournament. Everything you need to know is here, from the fixtures to the ball to the stadiums.

Wales have injuries but they're a talented team out to cause a shock, warns England lock Launchbury

England's Owen Farrell (left), Jamie George (2nd left), Mako Vunipola and Joe Launchbury (right) during a training session at Pennyhill Park, Bagshot. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday September 22, 2015. See PA story RUGBYU England. Photo credit should read: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: Editorial use only. Strictly no commercial use or association without RWCL permission. Still image use only. Use implies acceptance of Section 6 of RWC 2015 T&Cs at: http://bit.ly/1MPElTL Call +44 (0)1158 447447 for further info.

Joe Launchbury points to England's success in Cardiff earlier this year as the reason why he is paying little attention to Wales' injury problems ahead of the pivotal World Cup clash on Saturday.

Faletau hoping pool of death can fire up Wales and upset hosts England

Wales' back row  Taulupe Faletau takes part in a training session in Hensol, south Wales, on September 16, 2015, ahead of the 2015 Rugby Union World Cup, which begins on September 18.  AFP PHOTO / LOIC VENANCELOIC VENANCE/AFP/Getty Images

Taulupe Faletau has been among Wales' most consistent and durable performers of the past four years - but he still pinches himself that he is living life on rugby union's global stage.

World Cup chiefs move to clarify use of TMO after lengthy delays

Rugby Union - Ireland v Canada - IRB Rugby World Cup 2015 Pool D - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Wales - 19/9/15
 General view of a TMO announcement on the big screen
 Action Images via Reuters / Andrew Boyers
 Livepic

World Cup chiefs have moved to clarify the role of television match officials following the controversial use of replays. England's opening match with Fiji last Friday lasted more than 100 minutes.

Bewhiskered backs, hipster hookers and scrum fluff... the best World Cup beards!

Beards of the Rugby World Cup 2015: Bewhiskered backs, hipster hookers and scrum fluff

As if their hulking physiques and menacing stares weren't intimidating enough, these players have taken things to the next level. Canada and France came well prepared for the blustery British autumn with an impressive showing of facial hair, while Welsh lock Jake Ball's nordic mane makes England's Joe Marler's efforts look like little more than scrum fluff.

FIXTURES, POOL STANDINGS AND RESULTS: Rugby World Cup latest

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 18:  A general view during the opening ceremony ahead of the 2015 Rugby World Cup Pool A match between England and Fiji at Twickenham Stadium on September 18, 2015 in London, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

The 2015 Rugby World Cup is underway and the long road to glory and the battle for the Webb Ellis Trophy has begun. Keep up with the latest standings from the pool stages right here.

Payne hopes he can nail partnership with Henshaw ahead of Ireland vs Romania

Jared Payne hopes he can get working on his partnership with Robbie Henshaw ahead of

Jared Payne is keen to ease his centre partnership with Robbie Henshaw into World Cup form against Romania on Sunday. Ireland boss Joe Schmidt will hope Henshaw can return to full training on Wednesday in a bid to beat hamstring trouble in time for the weekend Pool D clash at Wembley. Henshaw missed Ireland's 50-7 victory over Canada in Cardiff, and only went through light jogging in Monday's training session.

Cane to captain New Zealand against Namibia as All Blacks coach Hansen makes 12 changes to his side

Flanker Sam Cane will captain New Zealand for the first time in Thursday's World Cup clash against minnows Namibia. Steve Hansen has made 12 changes from the side that beat Argentina.

South African-born Scot Nel says he is not out for revenge against Japan

22/09/15 
SCOTLAND TRAINING
KINGSHOLM STADIUM - GLOUCESTER
Scotland's WP Nel

Scotland's South African-born prop WP Nel insists he is not out to avenge the Springboks defeat to Japan when he faces the World Cup shocktroops on Wednesday.

Pocock and Hooper both start for Australia against Fiji as Genia returns

BATH, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 21:  David Pocock of Australia speaks to the media during an Australia media session at the MacDonald Bath Spa Hotel on September 21, 2015 in Bath, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Australia coach Michael Cheika has opted for twin openside flankers in David Pocock and Michael Hooper for their World Cup Pool A opener against Fiji at the Millennium Stadium on Wednesday.

GAVIN HENSON: England are too young for this Rugby World Cup... an early exit would leave them scarred

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Andy Hooper/Daily Mail/REX Shutterstock (1075446a).. Rugby Union Six Nations Cup Wales V England At The Millennium Stadium Cardiff. (wales Won 11-9). Mathew Tait Of England Up Ended By Gavin Henson .. Rugby Union Six Nations Cup Wales V England At The Millennium Stadium Cardiff. (wales Won 11-9). Mathew Tait Of England Up Ended By Gavin Henson.. ..

EXCLUSIVE: It is 10 years since Gavin Henson hogged the front and back pages, but the perfectly groomed Welshman still shows traits of the A-list celebrity.

May looks forward to plumbing as an escape from Rugby World Cup circus

BAGSHOT, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 21: Jonny May passes the ball during the England training session held at Pennyhill Park on September 21, 2015 in Bagshot, England.  (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

As a means of coping with the pressure that comes with a home World Cup, England players are embracing every-day, mundane matters. For Jonny May, that means tackling a plumbing issue.

WIN Rugby World tickets to see England vs Wales, from Coca-Cola

Rugby Union - Coca-Cola Rugby Exchange  - Potters Fields Park, London - 3/8/15\nCoca-Cola launch million ball giveaway with Mike Tindall, Thom Evans, Natasha Hunt and Emily Scarratt at Tower Bridge as part of it's Rugby World Cup 2015 partnership \nMandatory Credit: Action Images / Andrew Couldridge\nLivepic\nEDITORIAL USE ONLY.

We have teamed up with official Rugby World CUp sponsor Coca Cola to give away two pairs of tickets for the eagerly awaited clash between England and Wales at Twickenham.

LA LIGA ROUND-UP: Atletico Madrid go joint-top after Griezmann brace as Espanyol inflict Valencia's first defeat of the season

Atletico Madrid go joint top with Antoine Griezmann double while Valencia lose

Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann struck two goals for a 2-0 win against crosstown rival Getafe on Tuesday, helping his side take the overnight lead of the Spanish league. Griezmann continued his strong start to the season with his fourth and fifth goals in six games in all competitions. Atletico's fourth win in five rounds moved the club above Barcelona on 12 points each.

Rooney on United's Fight Club: How stars crowd around TVs in the team hotel for big showdowns

Wayne Rooney on Manchester United Fight Club: Stars crowded around TV in team hotel when

The first rule of Fight Club is: You do not talk about Fight Club. Yet for Wayne Rooney that notion doesn't seem to apply within the Manchester United dressing room. Rooney is a well-known boxing fanatic and the Red Devils skipper has revealed that he and several of his team-mates are so much so that they have their own very fight club

Tevez visits crocked rival in hospital after Boca striker says sorry for tackle that broke his leg

Carlos Tevez visits Ezequiel Ham in hospital as Boca Juniors star apologises horror leg

Argentinos Junior midfielder Ezequiel Ham has thanked Boca Juniors star Carlos Tevez after the former West Ham striker visited him in hospital following his horror leg-breaking challenge. Tevez left Ham in agony when he forcefully collided with the 21-year-old's shin.

Alonso and Mascherano under investigation for alleged tax fraud 

epa04933946 Pajtim Kasami (R) of Olympiacos Piraeus in action against Xabi Alonso (L) of Bayern Munich during the UEFA Champions League Group F soccer match between Olympiacos Piraeus and Bayern Munich at Karaiskaki stadium in Piraeus, Greece, 16 September 2015.  EPA/ALEXANDROS VLACHOS

A Spanish state prosecutor is investigating midfielders Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano for alleged tax fraud. Alonso issued a statement via his Twitter account on Tuesday denying the allegations.

Crocked Liverpool captain Henderson starts recovery from foot surgery... and kicks off with Gerrard's autobiography

Jordan Henderson has undergone surgery on his broken foot, and the Liverpool captain has called upon the words of a trusted friend to help ease the pain of the long road to recovery ahead.

Liverpool striker Benteke to undergo scan amid fears on hamstring injury

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 20:  Christian Benteke of Liverpool reacts during the Barclays Premier League match between Liverpool and Norwich City at Anfield on September 20, 2015 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Christian Benteke will undergo a scan on Tuesday as Liverpool look to determine how much damage the former Aston Villa striker has done to his hamstring.

Terry confident of new 12-month deal despite losing Chelsea spot

16th August 2015 - Barclays Premier League - Manchester City v Chelsea - John Terry of Chelsea speaks to Branislav Ivanovic of Chelsea - Photo: Simon Stacpoole / Offside.

John Terry is refusing to give up on his Chelsea career and believes he can earn a new contract at Stamford Bridge despite losing his first-team spot to Kurt Zouma.

Alli in line for an England call as Tottenham teen demands Hodgson's attention ahead of Euro 2016 qualifiers

Tottenham Hotspur's English midfielder Dele Alli (L) shakes hands with goal-scorer, Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean striker Son Heung-Min (R) after the English Premier League football match between Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace at White Hart Lane in north London on September 20, 2015. Tottenham won the game 1-0. AFP PHOTO / BEN STANSALL
RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications.BEN STANSALL/AFP/Getty Images

SAMI MOKBEL: Tottenham wonderkid Dele Alli has fired himself into Euro 2016 contention following his impressive start to life in the Premier League.

Newcastle defender Taylor out for two months after hamstring surgery

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 22:  Wayne Rooney of Manchester United in action with Steven Taylor of Newcastle United during the Barclays Premier League match between Manchester United and Newcastle United at Old Trafford on August 22, 2015 in Manchester, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Matthew Peters/Man Utd via Getty Images)

Steve McClaren's problems are continuing to mount at winless Newcastle with news that defender Steven Taylor will be sidelined for at least two months following hamstring surgery.

Get ready for Destruction Derby! Wenger to name strong Arsenal side to face Spurs with Giroud set to be recalled for cup clash

Arsene Wenger to name strong Arsenal side to face Tottenham

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has called on his players to put their recent frustrations behind them by knocking local rivals Tottenham out of the Capital One Cup at White Hart Lane.

Rangers 1-3 St Johnstone: Saints end Warburton's side's winning run to reach last eight of Scottish League Cup

Rangers 1-3 St Johnstone: Saints end Mark Warburton's side's winning run to reach League

MARK WILSON AT IBROX: Flawless so far in their pursuit of a place within the Premiership, Rangers received a reminder here of just how far they may still have to travel. A first meeting with top-flight opposition delivered a first defeat of Mark Warburton's tenure.

Platini to kick-off FIFA presidency campaign with global tour

Michel Platini's campaign for the FIFA presidency will kick off in earnest next month with a global tour that will see him visit countries in five out of the six continents before Christmas.

Cech consistency is answer to Arsenal goalkeeping problems, says Seaman

David Seaman believes the signing of Petr Cech, who could be rested for Wednesday's Capital One Cup clash, could give Arsenal the consistency they need to mount a sustained title challenge.

We will never see another Invincibles team like Arsenal, insists Toure

19th September 2015 - Barclays Premier League - Manchester City v West Ham United - Yaya Toure of Man City looks dejected - Photo: Simon Stacpoole / Offside.

Manchester City star Yaya Toure has claimed the feat achieved by the title-winning Arsenal Invincibles team will not be repeated because the Premier League 'is always improving'.

My magnificent 7... that I missed out on: United legend Ferguson reveals he failed to land Drogba, Muller and Original Ronaldo

Sir Alex Ferguson could have signed Thomas Muller when he was 10 and missed out on Ronaldo

Sir Alex Ferguson enjoyed unparalleled success during his quarter of a century at Old Trafford - but the former Manchester United manager has revelled he missed out on a number of elite stars. Ferguson reveals Brazilian striker Ronaldo was a target back in 1994, while they knew about Germany's World Cup winner Thomas Muller when he was just 10.

Ferguson hails Van Gaal for having pedigree to make United great again (and tips Carragher to be top boss)

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 18:  (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) Manager Louis van Gaal of Manchester United speaks during a press conference at Aon Training Complex on September 18, 2015 in Manchester, England.  (Photo by Matthew Peters/Man Utd via Getty Images)

Sir Alex Ferguson has called for patience in Louis van Gaal's bid to bring silverware back to Manchester United, but says he is already a great admirer of his successor's style at Old Trafford.

Fergie: During my 26-years at United, I only had FOUR world-class stars

Sir Alex Ferguson has claimed only four of his Manchester United players could be truly regarded as 'world-class', with Cristiano Ronaldo on top of the pile.

Fergie rejected Inter Milan approach after holding talks during United reign

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex ferguson. 


Football: Premier League: Manchester United 2 Everton 1.

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed how he held talks about leaving Manchester United for Inter Milan during the latter stages of his highly impressive 26-year career at Old Trafford.

Fergie: I flirted with the idea of signing Balotelli before City moved

AC Milan's Mario Balotelli, right, challenges for the ball with Palermo's Aljaz Struna during the Serie A soccer match between AC Milan and Palermo at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2015. AC Milan beat Palermo 3-2 for only its second win of the season as the visiting side missed the chance to move provisionally top of Serie A on Saturday. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni)

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he considered a move to sign Mario Balotelli before the controversial Italian striker signed for Manchester City.

I made sure no player ever earned more than me... including Rooney

Manchester United's new signing Wayne Rooney (right) and manager Sir Alex Ferguson. PRESS ASSOCIATION photo. Issue date: Tuesday October 19, 2010. See PA story SOCCER Man Utd. Photo credit should read: Gareth Copley/PA Wire.

Sir Alex Ferguson signed a contract with Manchester United in 2010 that ensured he would receive a higher salary than any of his players, the Scot has revealed in his latest book.

Fergie insists ill-fated appointment of Moyes at United was still the right call

Ferguson and Moyes shake hands as United and Everton match wits as managers before the younger Scot was chosen as his successor 

MATT BARLOW: Sir Alex Ferguson stood by the succession plan which brought David Moyes to Manchester United only to see him fired after less than one full season.

Teenage son of former world champion Piquet flips car NINE times in Brazil crash... but escapes 'small scare' with bruises

Pedro Piquet flips car nine times following crash during Porsche GT3 Cup... but son of

Pedro Piquet survived a 'small scare' after his car was struck and flipped over nine times during the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge in Brazil. The son of three-time Formula One champion Nelson Piquet was turning a bend when his car was hit from the side before spinning out of control.

Cameron receives a visit from England cricket teams after summer of mixed fortunes in men's and women's Ashes 

David Cameron receives a visit from the England cricket teams after a summer of mixed

David Cameron met the England men and women's cricket team following a summer of Ashes exploits, with the Prime Minister hosting a welcome reception at 10 Downing Street.

'Welsh Mayweather' Selby believes US training camp will give him 'edge' for title defence against Montiel in Arizona

Lee Selby believes US jaunts will give him 'the edge' in Arizona for debut title defence

Lee Selby believes his previous Stateside trips will help him on his American ring debut next month. The IBF featherweight champion has chosen to make the first defence of his title against Mexico's Fernando Montiel in Arizona on October 14 rather than take the easier option of fighting on home soil in Wales.

Pistorius murder case to be heard by Supreme Court of Appeal on Nov 3

Oscar Pistorius' case will be heard by South Africa's Supreme Court of Appeal on November 3, when prosecutors will ask a panel of five judges to reject his trial verdict and convict him of murder.

Charged British F1 fan who walked across track during Singapore Grand Prix could be jailed for six months

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Bloxham/LAT/REX Shutterstock (5119087d)
 The safety car is deployed after a mad fan wanders on the track.
 Singapore Formula One 1 Grand Prix, Marina Bay Circuit, Singapore - 20 Sep 2015.

A British man who walked across the track during Sunday's Singapore Grand Prix has been charged with committing a rash act. He was offered bail of 15,000 Singapore dollars (£6,800)

Buglioni will come up short at world title level, insists rival Chudinov

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22: Fedor Chudinov of Russia spars during the Fedor Chudinov v Frank Buglioni Media Work Out at Peacock Gym on September 22, 2015 in London, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)

Fedor Chudinov believes Frank Buglioni will be found wanting when he steps up to world title level.
The Russian defends his WBA super-middleweight title on Saturday night.

Pietersen to line up in Pakistan Super League Twenty20 tournament

Kevin Pietersen is gearing up for another spell in franchise Twenty20, after already signing up to represent the Sunfoil Dolphins in South Africa's RAM Slam T20.

Pendleton finishes 13th at Beverley as Olympic hero completes second race as amateur jockey on Royal Etiquette

BEVERLEY, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22:  Victoria Pendleton riding Royal Etiquette competes in The Betfair Supports Amateur Riders Handicap Stakes on September 22, 2015 in Beverley, England.  (Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images)

Olympic cycling champion Victoria Pendleton finished well down the field on her second competitive start as an amateur rider at Beverley, as she reunited with the Lawney Hill-trained Royal Etiquette.

Furyk forced to withdraw from Tour Championship with wrist injury

Former FedExCup winner Jim Furyk has withdrawn from this week's season-ending Tour Championship due to a bone contusion in his left wrist, the American said on Tuesday.

SAM TURNER'S RACING TIPS: Best bets for Wednesday, September 23

Jockey Richard Hughes on King of the Wolds leads the European Breeders' Fund paddypower.com 'National Hunt' Novices' Handicap Hurdle Final at the Paddy Power Imperial Cup Day at Sandown......

Sportsmail racing expert Robin Goodfellow gives his guides to Tuesday's races at Redcar, Goodwood, Perth and Kempton...

British Horseracing Authority to hear Simple Verse appeal after demotion

SIMPLE VERSE with Andrea Atzeni and owner on left SHEIKH FAHAD after St Leger at Doncaster 12-9-15.

The controversial duel for the 2015 Ladbrokes St Leger reconvenes on Wednesday morning when the British Horseracing Authority hear the appeal by Simple Verse against demotion at Doncaster.

What's happened to the Premier League's A-listers? Aguero, Kane, Costa, Hazard and Rooney are all out-of-sorts and misfiring

Sergio Aguero, Harry Kane, Diego Costa, Alexis Sanchez, Eden Hazard and Wayne Rooney are

MATT BARLOW: Six players who shared 109 goals in the Barclays Premier League last season -Sergio Aguero, Harry Kane, Diego Costa, Alexis Sanchez, Eden Hazard and Wayne Rooney - are all misfiring. Six games into the new season and the attackers have just three goals between them from a combined total of 35 games. Here is why they've gone off the boil.

Meet the footballer with an insulin pump in his kit bag who doesn't let diabetes hold him back

Southend United footballer Ben Coker doesn't let diabetes hold him back

Southend's Ben Coker, 26, developed Type 1 diabetes at 15 but has never let it hold him back during his career as a professional footballer. Type 1 diabetes affects around 350,000 people in the UK.

Tyson losing to Douglas? Greece winning Euro 2004? Our writers reveal their greatest shock after Japan's win

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 19:  Ayumu Goromaru of Japan celebrates scoring his team's second try during the 2015 Rugby World Cup Pool B match between South Africa and Japan at the Brighton Community Stadium on September 19, 2015 in Brighton, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)

Japan pulled off one of the biggest shocks the sporting world has ever seen when they claimed a late 34-32 against South Africa. But which other shocks have wowed viewers over the years?

Mayweather's 'farewell' fight against Berto drew in no more than 400,000 pay-per-view buys...he needs Pacquiao

Floyd Mayweather Jr. throws a left at Manny Pacquiao during their welterweight unification championship bout on May 2, 2015 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.  

LAS VEGAS, NV - MAY 02:  
(Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

JEFF POWELL: United States pay-per-view buys on the Showtime cable network for Floyd Mayweather's alleged last fight, against Andre Berto, are said to number no more than 400,000. If that.

ADRIAN DURHAM: Arsenal need a player like Costa... and Wenger made the same mistakes he always does

Diego Costa of Chelsea grapples with Gabriel Paulista of Arsenal and Laurent Koscielny of Arsenal eventually leading to a sending off for Gabriel Paulista during the Barclays Premier League match between Chelsea and Arsenal played at Stamford Bridge, London on September 19th 2015

Should Diego Costa have been sent off? Yes of course. But Arsenal should have stayed professional and the irony is that Costa is EXACTLY the kind of player they need.