A Liverpool trial... in his Everton kit! Rooney's secrets revealed in BBC documentary that will change the nation's image of its captain

A Liverpool trial... in his Everton kit! Wayne Rooney's secrets revealed in documentary on

IAN LADYMAN: Despite the impressive cast of football glitterati scattered through the BBC's forthcoming Wayne Rooney documentary, the most enduring impression is the sheer quality of his football as a young man. Rooney, at the age of almost 30, remains a very talented footballer. As of earlier this month, the Manchester United captain is England's record international goalscorer. Footage shown in Rooney - The Man Behind the Goals reminds us, however, of a talent that, at one time at least, was almost unique on our shores. We have had other promising players since then. Jack Wilshere and Ross Barkley have caught our attention.

Chelsea players MUST improve or I'll play the kids, warns Mourinho ahead of Champions League tie against Porto

Chelsea players must improve or I'll play the kids, insists Jose Mourinho after poor

MATT BARLOW IN PORTO: Jose Mourinho has delivered a stinging attack on the 'motivation, desire and commitment' of his Chelsea players. Mourinho let rip as he returned to Porto in the Champions League, and warned senior stars he would discard them in favour of the club's young players if they did not improve. Chelsea have won only two of their first seven Barclays Premier League games in the defence of their title.

REVEALED: The phone call that wrecked Mourinho's relationship with Casillas at Real Madrid as they face Champions League reunion tomorrow

Casillas banner.jpg

PETE JENSON: For Mourinho it was treachery. He had decided that the only way to beat Barcelona was to make war with them; Casillas had effectively raised the white flag.

Platini admits his image has been damaged but UEFA president remains silent on 'disloyal payment'

CHARLES SALE: UEFA president Michel Platini's attempt to clarify his involvement in FIFA corruption scandal only succeeded in dragging him further into the unholy mess.

England's warhorse has a last run as Easter answers call to return to squad and says: 'I'll offer Robshaw my advice'

BAGSHOT, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 28:  Nick Easter, who has been brought into the England squad for the injured Billy Vunipola, poses after the England press conference at Pennyhill Park on September 28, 2015 in Bagshot, England.  (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

CHRIS FOY: For the best part of four years, Nick Easter endured his England exile and kept believing that he was good enough. Now he has his reward for keeping the flame alive.

Root set to switch bat maker ahead of Pakistan series as Ashes hero signs £200k-a-year deal with New Balance

Cricket - Ashes Series 2015 - England v Australia - 4th Test - Trent Bridge - Day 1 - Pic shows:- Joe Root at the end of play

CHARLES SALE: England's top Ashes run-scorer Joe Root is switching his bat maker to New Balance before the series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

Robshaw 'looked like a mug' but he was just doing what he thought was right, says Australia captain Moore

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26:  England captain Chris Robshaw looks dejected after his teams defeat during the 2015 Rugby World Cup Pool A match between England and Wales at Twickenham Stadium on September 26, 2015 in London, United Kingdom.  (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

Australia captain Stephen Moore has sympathy with Chris Robshaw looking 'a mug' during England's defeat by Wales - after he made the same call two months ago and became a hero.

West Brom 2-3 Everton: Toffees complete stunning turnaround as Lukaku scores two and sets one up against former club

West Brom 2-3 Everton: Toffees complete stunning second-half turnaround as Romelu Lukaku

LAURIE WHITWELL AT THE HAWTHORNS: Romelu Lukaku used to win matches for his side at The Hawthorns with regular frequency. It transpires he still can. From a position of seemingly certain defeat - 2-0 down to a team who have more clean sheets than the Ritz after morning check-out - Lukaku produced a fearsome performance to turn the tide in a manner rarely seen. Everton looked buried in the 54th minute, after Craig Dawson scored to add to Saido Berahino's opener.

Lukaku 'can become anything he wants', claims manager Martinez following West Brom win

Everton match-winner Romelu Lukaku 'can become anything he wants', claims manager Roberto

DOMINIC KING AT THE HAWTHORNS: Roberto Martinez predicted Romelu Lukaku 'can become anything he wants' after he inspired Everton's best away comeback in 30 years. The Belgium international, Everton's club record signing, started and finished a remarkable turnaround at The Hawthorns, with the first and third goals in a 3-2 win over West Brom that lifted his side into fifth place ahead of the Merseyside derby.

Deulofeu must have patience but if Martinez can continue to apply polish, Everton will have something magic

WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 28:  Gerard Deulofeu celebrates victory after the Barclays Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and Everton at The Hawthorns on September 28, 2015 in West Bromwich, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)

DOMINIC KING AT THE HAWTHORNS: Given his billing as one of Europe's hottest young talents, the chant on the terraces for Gerard Deulofeu was never going to be routine.

Everton defence may have missed Stones but new look back four helped limit West Brom in Hawthorns victory

WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 28:  Ramiro Funes Mori of Everton celebrates victory after the Barclays Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and Everton at The Hawthorns on September 28, 2015 in West Bromwich, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

DAN RIPLEY: Despite missing Leighton Baines, Seamus Coleman and John Stones, Everton's back four held together by Phil Jagielka managed to see off West Brom.

Ranger issues public apology and begs for another chance in football 

Blackpool's Nile Ranger looks dejected during the game against Norwich City

Nile Ranger has issued a public apology to his previous clubs and current team-mates for 'taking things for granted' and hopes to one day reignite his career.

Liverpool goalkeeper Vigouroux has his Swindon loan spell cut short after paying £50 fine for lateness in PENNIES

CHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 07:  (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Lawrence Vigouroux of Liverpool in action during the U21 Premier League game between Liverpool and Fulham at The Swansway Chester Stadium on April 7, 2015 in Chester, England.  (Photo by Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Liverpool goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux has been sent back from a loan spell at Swindon Town after turning up late for training and paying his fine in pennies.

Schmeichel and Keane were world class, insists Neville after Ferguson fails to include them in his own list

Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville believes that his old manager Sir Alex Ferguson missed out two names when he listed the world-class players that he worked with.

The Aussie rugby star who defies ALL the stereotypes: David Pocock's a climate change campaigner and won't marry his girlfriend until gay men in Australia can wed

Australia flanker David Pocock is the Rugby World Cup's 2015 most intriguing star

CHRIS FOY: There is no mould that fits David Pocock. Australia's imperious flanker is a one-man antidote to the notion that modern rugby players are cut from the same, orthodox cloth.  The 27-year-old is a non-conformist on an epic scale; a free-thinker who refuses to dilute his views in order to placate his employers or fit in with wider societal norms. Pocock is arguably the world's premier openside; a master of the breakdown. He poses a grave threat to England at Twickenham on Saturday and he could have a major influence on the outcome of World Cup Pool A.

Memphis goes walking in Manchester with Chris Brown's ex Karrueche Tran

Memphis Depay spends more time with Karrueche Tran as he hits the shops in Manchester with

Memphis Depay decided to reward himself with a shopping trip to Selfridges in Manchester following his first Premier League goal against Sunderland.  The Manchester United forward was joined by model Karrueche Tran, 27, as he hit the shops on Monday afternoon. Both Depay, 21, and Chris Brown's ex-girlfriend attended the same hot spots on Saturday as they were pictured outside Suburbia nightclub and Club LIV.

'Only Aguero is a better finisher than Sturridge', insists Carragher 

Only Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero is a better finisher than Liverpool's Daniel Sturridge according to Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher. Carragher retired from football in 2013.

Young insists he 'wasn't bothered' by Van Gaal's Neymar comparison

Manchester United's Memphis Depay and Ashley Young (left) are all smiles as they celebrate victory after the game during the Barclays Premier League match at Old Trafford, Manchester. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday September 26, 2015. See PA story SOCCER Man Utd. Photo credit should read: Martin Rickett/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: EDITORIAL USE ONLY No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or "live" services. Online in-match use limited to 45 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications.

Manchester United winger Ashley Young shrugged off manager Louis van Gaal's clumsy and unfavourable comparison of him with Neymar this summer.

Blatter refuses to step down as FIFA president despite criminal probe as he insists he has done nothing illegal

FILES - A picture taken on July 20, 2015 shows FIFA president Sepp Blatter gesturing during a press conference at the football's world body headquarter's in Zurich.  Blatter says payments to Platini were 'valid compensation' according to his lawyer on September 28, 2015. 
AFP PHOTO / FABRICE COFFRINIFABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Images

Sepp Blatter has stated he will remain as FIFA president despite the opening of criminal proceedings against him because he has done nothing wrong or improper.

Mascherano charged with two counts of tax fraud totalling more than £1.1m 

Barcelona's Argentinian defender Javier Mascherano (R) vies with Las Palmas' forward Wakaso during the Spanish league football match FC Barcelona vs UD Las Palmas at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona on September 26, 2015.   AFP PHOTO/ LLUIS GENELLUIS GENE/AFP/Getty Images

Barcelona's Argentina international Javier Mascherano has been charged with two counts of defrauding the Spanish tax authorities of a total of more than £1.1million.

Cheer up, lads... it's not THAT bad! Costa shows off his new beard as he rejoins Chelsea's grumpy squad for Euro tie

Diego Costa can make up for lost time as John Terry and Co look in sombre mood ahead of

Diego Costa looked prepared for battle on Monday afternoon as Jose Mourinho's Chelsea side geared up for their Champions League clash against Porto.  Costa, who has served two games of his three-match domestic ban, is available for selection ahead of Mourinho's return to his former club on Tuesday.  The Brazil-born striker missed Chelsea's Capital One Cup victory against Walsall and Saturday's 2-2 draw with Newcastle after being retrospectively banned for violent conduct following his side's heated 2-0 win over Arsenal earlier this month.       

Don't lose it: Wenger tells Arsenal stars that they must win Champions League clash ahead of Bayern double

Arsenal must win against Olympiacos to keep Champions League qualification hopes alive,

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists tomorrow's Champions League clash against Olympiacos is already a 'must win' game. The Gunners welcome the Greek side to the Emirates Stadium as they look to bounce back from their shock defeat against Dinamo Zagreb on matchday one.

Mourinho returns to his homeland for Champions League action... but there's no hero's welcome in Porto

epa04954764 Chelsea's manager Jose Mourinho during a press conference at Dragao stadium in Porto, Portugal, 28 September 2015. Chelsea will face FC Porto in the UEFA Champions League group G soccer match on 29  September.  EPA/ESTELA SILVA

MATT BARLOW IN PORTO: No-one in Porto, least of all Iker Casillas, will have been too shocked to find Jose Mourinho brooding and at odds with his Chelsea players upon his return.

Wenger poised to continue with Ospina in goal against Olympiacos

ST ALBANS, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 28: David Ospina of Arsenal during a training session at London Colney on September 28, 2015 in St Albans, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsene Wenger is poised to take another Champions League gamble as he looks to keep his summer promise to keeper David Ospina. He is expected to start against Olympiacos.

Porto boss Lopetegui denies Chelsea have an advantage in the referee as he lauds Casillas as he nears record

Porto boss Julen Lopetegui has shrugged off the idea that Jose Mourinho will be accompanied by one of his favourite referees when he returns to the Estadio do Dragao with Chelsea.

Mourinho: A Chelsea team full of Costas? We'd lose every game because everyone wants to suspend him!

Chelsea's Brazilian-born Spanish striker Diego Costa waves as he arrives for a training session at Chelsea's training ground in Stoke D'Abernon, south of London, on September 28, 2015, on the eve of their UEFA Champions League Group G football match against Porto.   AFP PHOTO / FRANCK FIFEFRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images

Jose Mourinho has claimed a team full of Diego Costas would be no good to him. 'We would lose every game,' said Mourinho. 'The desire to suspend him is so great.'

Grealish has a Brummie accent and is a Villa academy graduate... he should not be attacked for England decision

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26 : Jack Grealish of Aston Villa is challenged by Emre Can of Liverpool during the Barclays Premier League match between Liverpool and Aston Villa at Anfield on September 26, 2015 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Neville Williams/Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)

LAURIE WHITWELL: Jack Grealish felt well treated by Ireland and has a bond through playing Gaelic football as a kid. But he has lived all his life in Solihull.

Australia put through ice bath recovery session after Uruguay win as squad prepare for brutal battle with England on Saturday

Australia enjoy ice bath recovery session after Uruguay win as squad prepare for brutal

MATT LAWTON: The sight of Australia's rugby players wearing the skimpiest of swimming briefs for a recovery session at Birmingham University's pool somewhat undermined their claim that they are ready for what promises to be a brutal front row battle with England at Twickenham on Saturday. Unless, that is, one regards a prop forward in a pair of branded 'budgy smuggler' trunks as someone with an awful lot of confidence. The Wallabies do seem to fancy themselves for victory this weekend, insisting that their 'Wobblies' reputation - for the difficulties they have endured in the scrum in the past - is very much a thing of the past.

Wales celebrate Twickenham raid after slaying World Cup hosts

Wales celebrate Twickenham heroics... how the papers reacted to Rugby World Cup victory

While inquests mount about England's defeat by Wales, across the River Severn they are continuing to bask in one of their greatest-ever victories.

We will never collapse like England did, vows All Blacks legend Carter as New Zealand gear up for Georgia

All Blacks No 10 Dan Carter has backed his side's fitness levels to save them from an England-style implosion in the final 20 minutes of a Test match, after Wales shocked the hosts.

Wood escapes ban but he is warned for striking Williams in Wales defeat

DAILY MAIL SCREEN GRAB - Tom Wood and Liam Williams

Tom Wood is free to play in Saturday's World Cup match against Australia after being warned for striking Wales full-back Liam Williams in Saturday's match at Twickenham.

Hook gets Wales call-up to replace Scott Williams as assistant coach Howley denies rift claims

With the Wales team hotel feeling more like a hospital ward than a World Cup base, Warren Gatland called on James Hook and Gareth Anscombe to patch up his squad.

RATED: Premier League new boys... our verdict on the impact of Martial, De Bruyne, Cech and the rest so far this season

Premier League new boys RATED: Anthony Martial, Kevin De Bruyne and Son Heung-min among

The summer saw a flurry of transfer activity, with a number of new faces lining up for the Premier League's elite.  We rate the transfer business for each of last season's top six plus West Ham and Crystal Palace, who sit in the current top six after seven rounds of matches

Can you name the two former Football League players Gerrard dined out with in LA after scoring Galaxy winner?

Steven Gerrard dines out in LA with old friends after scoring winner for Galaxy 

Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard appears to still be enjoying the LA life... and he's brought two old friends along for the ride. The LA Galaxy midfielder, who scored the winning goal for his side against FC Dallas on Sunday, celebrated the successful result with a meal out alongside two old friends, who you may recognise as professional footballers in their own right.

Grealish will not receive clearance in time for England games next month after opting to represent Three Lions

Jack Grealish of Aston Villa during the Barclays Premier League match between Liverpool and Aston Villa played at Anfield, Liverpool

Jack Grealish's England debut has been put on hold after it emerged that he will have wait several weeks for international clearance from FIFA to switch countries.

Liverpool target Konoplyanka slams 'less technical' Premier League saying if he didn't know how to control a ball he might have gone to England

Konoplyanka was the subject of serious attention from Liverpool and Spurs before he joined Sevilla in July and the Ukrainian has expressed his delight at heading to Spain, rather than England.

Olympiacos manager Silva confident they can surprise Arsenal: 'There are no rules to say favourites must win'

Olympiacos manager Marco Silva smiles during a press conference at the Emirates Stadium, ahead of the Champion's League group stage soccer match against Arsenal, in London, Monday Sept. 28, 2015. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland)

Olympiacos manager Marco Silva claims his side are ready to create history and pull off a shock result against Arsenal in the Champions League.

Spieth won more than $22m in total on the course this season... that's $3,623 per shot! The staggering numbers that show how golf's new superstar cashed in on success

Jordan Spieth won $22,030,465 in total on the course this season... $3,623 per shot! Read

As if winning two major championships wasn't enough, Jordan Spieth also landed the $10million FedEx Cup bonus to cap a quite extraordinary season. The world No 1's latest victory at the Tour Championship, his fifth win of the season, ensured he pocketed the extra cash prize, and took his earnings on the course in the 2014-15 PGA Tour season to an eye-watering $12,030,465 (£7,916,342).

Spieth has slammed the door shut on Woods... it's time for American golf to accept the passing of the torch

Jordan Spieth has slammed the door shut on Tiger Woods... it's time for American golf to

DEREK LAWRENSON IN ATLANTA: Was this the moment when American golf finally accepted the passing of the torch from Tiger Woods to Jordan Spieth? On a memorable Sunday to close out an epochal PGA Tour season it sure felt like it, as the 22-year-old won the way Tiger sometimes did on his off-days, by getting down in the dirt and grinding it out.

Formula One champion-elect Hamilton believes 'mega' work-life balance is behind him being in form of his career

Lewis Hamilton believes he is in the form of his life as he closes in on a third Formula One title. Hamilton moved 48 points clear of Nico Rosberg.

West Indies suspend head coach Simmons with immediate effect after he questioned selection decisions

ROSEAU, DOMINICA - JUNE 05:  West Indies coach Phil Simmons looks on during day three of the First Test match between Australia and the West Indies at Windsor Park on June 5, 2015 in Roseau, Dominica.  (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

West Indies have taken the drastic step of suspending Phil Simmons following the head coach's outburst over the selections for the one-day leg of the Sri Lanka tour.

London turns down chance to host 2017 Tour de France Grand Depart 

Team Sky's Chris Froome celebrates winning the 2015 Tour de France  during Stage Twenty One of the 2015 Tour de France between Sevres and Paris Champs-Elysees.

London has declined the opportunity to host the Tour de France Grand Depart in 2017. The capital was asked to host the cycling race 10 years on from its successful staging of the Tour.

South Africa hit the gym as they prepare for Scotland without retired captain De Villiers 

South Africa hit the gym as they prepare for Scotland without captain Jean de Villiers 

South Africa were in the Gym on Monday as they gear up for their crucial World Cup match with Scotland at St James' Park. The Springboks travel to Newcastle on Saturday knowing that defeat against Scotland would open the door for Japan and Samoa to qualify for the quarterfinals ahead of them.

Missing Messi? Barcelona star is out for next two months... but believe it or not, they are actually better WITHOUT him

Lionel Messi set to miss two months but stats show Barcelona are better without him

PETE JENSON: When Lionel Messi went down clutching his knee on Saturday the Camp Nou held its breath because they knew what was coming - first the anxious wait for news on the injury and now the anxious wait to see if they can survive for the next two months without him.

Neville glad Man United are back to securing 'routine' victories following comfortable win over Sunderland 

Former Manchester United defender and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville is pleased that his old side have got back to producing 'routine' victories against sides they should be beating.

De Bruyne is earning FOUR times as much at Manchester City, according to Wolfsburg sporting director Allofs 

epa04950422 Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne celebrates after scoring the opening goal against Tottenham during the English Premier League soccer match between Tottenham and Manchester City at White Heart Lane in London, Britain, 26 September 2015.  EPA/ANDY RAIN No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' service. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications  EDITORIAL USE ONLY  EDITORIAL USE ONLY

Kevin De Bruyne's wages have quadruped since joining Man City, according to Wolfsburg sporting director Klaus Allofs. The Belgium playmaker joined City for £52million.

Sturridge has better Premier League scoring record for Liverpool than Suarez and Torres after Villa double

Brendan Rodgers may think there is a campaign to get him sacked as Liverpool manager, but if he keeps Daniel Sturridge on the pitch, it will be hard to find a reason to get rid of him.

Bing

Season at a glance

  • Premier League
  • Premier League
  • Championship
  • League One
  • League Two
  • Scottish Premiership
  • Scottish Div 1
  • Scottish Div 2
  • Scottish Div 3
  • Ligue 1
  • Serie A
  • La Liga
  • Bundesliga
   

MORE STARS OF SPORT

LATEST MATCH REPORTS

Everton striker  Lukaku pulled a goal back just a minute after Dawson's headed effort to get his side back in the game        

Crouch, touch, pause... engaged! Romania star proposes to girlfriend at Wembley after Ireland match in front of world record crowd

Romania scrum-half Florin Surugiu proposes to his girlfriend on the Wembley pitch after

Romania scrum-half Roman Surugiu got engaged to his girlfriend Alexandria on the Wembley pitch after his side were beaten 44-10 by Ireland at Wembley on Sunday. The 30-year-old Surugiu came off the bench to feature in the Pool D encounter which had a tournament record attendance of 89,267. And afterwards, as the stadium emptied, Surugiu got down on one knee and asked his girlfriend to marry him, as his Romania team-mates and coaching staff gathered behind him. 

Blame it on the Biggar Boogie! Wales hero downed England with his bizarre kicking routine... and here is how he does it

Dan Biggar Boogie to blame for Wales' comeback Rugby World Cup victory

Dan Biggar inspired Wales to a memorable Rugby World Cup victory over hosts England at Twickenham by landing eight kicks from eight, including the winning penalty from the halfway line. Many doubted the Ospreys No 10 would be able to effectively replace the injured Leigh Halfpenny, but Biggar produced an exhibition of precision kicking when it was needed most to give Warren Gatland's side every chance of qualifying from Pool A.

All Blacks put through their paces as they gear up for Georgia encounter

All Blacks put through their paces as they gear up for Georgia encounter in Cardiff

New Zealand will look to maintain their 100% winning record in this year's Rugby World Cup when they take on Georgia at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Friday. And the All Blacks were put through their paces by head coach Steve Hansen in the Welsh capital on Monday, having moved from their London base. Hansen's men narrowly defeated Argentina 26-16 in their tournament opener at Wembley Stadium on September 20, before annihilating Namibia 58-14 at the Olympic Stadium four days later.

We know about Pocock, but here are five other Aussie who could hurt England in crunch Twickenham clash

CARDIFF, WALES - SEPTEMBER 23:  Stephen Moore of Australia throws in the line out ball during the 2015 Rugby World Cup Pool A match between Australia and Fiji at the Millennium Stadium on September 23, 2015 in Cardiff, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)

England and Australia go head-to-head in their Rugby World Cup Pool A clash at Twickenham on Saturday. Sportsmail takes a look at five Wallabies players who could pose a threat to the Red Rose.

Australia chase away photographer with long-lens camera hiding in bushes at training amid spy fears

Security and backroom staff were forced to chase away the man hiding in bushes overlooking the private session at Bath University, where the field is surrounded by fences.

SIR CLIVE WOODWARD: Blame the coaches (not Robshaw) and why I'd be tempted to drop Farrell for Aussies

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26:  Chris Robshaw of England looks on during the 2015 Rugby World Cup Pool A match between England and Wales at Twickenham Stadium on September 26, 2015 in London, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

It pains me to say it but England looked like a team of amateurs playing against streetwise professionals in the last 20 minutes at Twickenham.

England call up Easter and fire back at Carling jibe after he claimed players have been treated like 'schoolboys'

PARIS, FRANCE - AUGUST 22:  Nick Easter of England runs with the ball during the International match between France and England at Stade de France on August 22, 2015 in Paris, France.  (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

England have angrily denied accusations that players have been treated like 'schoolboys', after calling up Nick Easter as a replacement for Billy Vunipola, whose World Cup is over. 

Gilchrist ruled out of World Cup as head coach Cotter sweats on fitness of influential playmaker Russell

NIK SIMON'S WORLD CUP DIARY: Scotland's World Cup plans have been dealt a blow after it was confirmed that lock Grant Gilchrist will miss the rest of the tournament with injury.

Fiji star Nadolo to miss Wales clash as he is suspended for one week for foul play in tackle against Australia

Fiji star player Nemani Nadolo will miss his side's Rugby World Cup clash with Wales after being handed a one week suspension for foul play during the Pool A game with Australia.

MARTIN SAMUEL: Train chief should be sacked for World Cup shambles

England players look dejected at the end of the match during the Rugby World Cup match at Twickenham Stadium, London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday September 26, 2015. See PA story RUGBYU England. Photo credit should read: Mike Egerton/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.

Nobody knows what future the World Cup holds for Stuart Lancaster. But we already know what it should hold for Great Western Railways' chief executive.

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.

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

image001.png

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.

'Come dine with the Carrolls': West Ham striker and his fiancee Billi Mucklow host meal for team-mates at their garish home

'Come dine with the Carrolls': West Ham striker Andy Carroll and fiancee Billi Mucklow

West Ham striker Andy Carroll clearly loves to play host, judging by his latest Instagram posts. Carroll shared a picture of himself with West Ham team-mates Aaron Cresswell, Joey O'Brien and Winston Reid on the social network site, with the group suited and booted for a dinner at his house. And Carroll's fiancee, Billi Mucklow, uploaded a picture to her account with the wags and captioned the image 'Come dine with the Carrolls'.

'Ronaldo - The Movie': Real icon stars in new film about his life by makers of 'Senna'

'Ronaldo - The Movie': Real Madrid icon stars in new documentary about his life set to

Cristiano Ronaldo is already a star on the pitch, but now the Real Madrid man is becoming a movie-star as well. The Portuguese international released a trailer for his new film, also called 'Ronaldo', which follows his life over a year. The 30-year-old forward allowed a film crew to have unprecedented access to his private and public life over 14 months, producing a documentary which will be shown around the world.  

Schweinsteiger shares his glee at helping Man United return to the Premier League summit with boastful tweet 

Bastian Schweinsteiger shares his glee at helping Manchester United return to the Premier

Bastian Schweinsteiger has toasted Manchester United's return to the top of the Premier League by taking to social media to celebrate his side's rise to the summit after beating Sunderland.

Tottenham's transfer guru (who brought in those seven players after Bale's exit) finally breaks ties with Levy

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 03: Tottenham Hotspur director of football Franco Baldini looks on during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison Park on November 03, 2013 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Getty Images)

Tottenham have announced the departure of technical director Franco Baldini. The Italian is leaving the White Hart Lane club by mutual consent.

Wolves chairman puts club up for sale after owning them for eight years 

Wolverhampton Wanderers new owner Steve Morgan during a press call at the Molineux, Wolverhampton. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date:  Thursday August 9, 2007. Photo credit should read: Nick Potts/PA Wire.
 
 THIS PICTURE CAN ONLY BE USED WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF AN EDITORIAL FEATURE. NO UNOFFICIAL CLUB WEBSITE USE.

Wolves have been put up for sale by owner Steve Morgan. The Sky Bet Championship club are now on the market after chairman Morgan confirmed he is looking for a buyer after eight years.

EXCLUSIVE: Vardy rises to top of Premier League scoring charts despite playing with two broken wrist bones

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26:  A dejected looking Jamie Vardy of Leicester City during the Barclays Premier League match between Leicester City and Arsenal at The King Power Stadium on September 26, 2015 in Leicester, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)

LAURIE WHITWELL: Jamie Vardy has reached the top of the Premier League scoring charts despite playing with two broken bones in his right wrist.

10 THINGS WE LEARNED: Van Gaal has instilled discipline at United and Oscar's form is costing Chelsea

RALPH ELLIS looks at the 10 things we learned from this weekend's footballing action as after seven games played, Manchester United are top of the Premier League with 16 points.

Liverpool should stick with Rodgers now that Sturridge is fit, says Rush  

Liverpool legend Ian Rush believes that Brendan Rodgers needs to be given more time as manager at Anfield now that striker Daniel Sturridge has returned to fitness.

Atkinson to referee Merseyside derby at Goodison Park for first time since controversial red card four years ago

EVERTON V LIVERPOOL -  Goodison Park

Everton's Jack Rodwell is harshly red carded for a tackle on Liverpool Suarez.


Liverpool won the game 2-0.

PIctures by Ian Hodgson/Daily Mail
. REXMAILPIX.

Atkinson will stand in his fifth clash between Everton and Liverpool, who renew hostilities at Goodison Park at 1.30pm on Sunday, having previously caused controversy in the fixture.

Manchester United legends Neville and Scholes 'humbled' after visiting local charity

Gary Neville and Paul Scholes give back to community after Manchester United legends visit

Manchester United legends Gary Neville and Paul Scholes made a habit of making supporters of the club happy during their time at the Premier League giants.  And the former England internationals were back to their old tricks when they made a trip to the Wythenshawe Community Initiative.  The pair visited the centre to meet the families and children who benefit from the work they do - and they even attempted a spot of painting.

Why Dortmund are head over heels in love with the man who replaced Klopp... Tuchel's side are set to challenge Bayern again

Borussia Dortmund are transformed since chaos under Jurgen Klopp... here's why Thomas

KIT HOLDEN: Dortmund are a team born again. No-one had doubted Tuchel's quality after his successful years at Mainz, but few expected the turnaround to be quite this fast.

JAMIE REDKNAPP: Dier must be on Roy's radar after commanding midfield display

Eric Dier is now an England prospect after superb Tottenham displays, while Alexis Sanchez

Sportsmail columnist Jamie Redknapp reflects on this weekend's Premier League action, with particular focus on Alexis Sanchez's return to form, and how Manchester City miss David Silva... Welcome back Alexis Sanchez. What a performance from the Arsenal man. I was watching him last season with Thierry Henry and we agreed that when he plays, Arsenal are a real force. I bet Arsene Wenger is delighted he is back to his best.

Brentford sack manager after slow start and appoint ex-Everton star Carsley until the end of the season 

Former Everton midfield player  Carsley will take over as manager at Griffin Park until the end of the season

Brentford have sacked manager Marinus Dijkhuizen after only nine games in charge at Griffin Park, with former Everton midfielder Lee Carsley taking over until the end of the season.

West Brom flop Ideye has 'nothing to prove' on return to England with Olympiacos to face Arsenal

Former West Brom flop Brown Ideye insists he has 'nothing to prove' on his return to England to face Arsenal in the Champions League with new club Olympiacos.

QPR's Austin out for four weeks with hamstring injury as Mackie is sidelined  

Charlie Austin of QPR on the ground with an injury that forced him to leave the field during the Sky Bet Championship match between Fulham and QPR played at Craven Cottage, London on September 25th 2015

Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin has been ruled out for around four weeks after suffering a hamstring strain during the 4-0 Championship defeat against Fulham last weekend. 

Toure's the best midfielder in England, but expecting him to play three games in a week is 'impossible', says Neville 

Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has questioned Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini's decision to field veteran midfielder Yaya Toure for three games in seven days.

Arsenal and Chelsea target Lacazette 'hurt' by Lyon president after he made contract negotiations public

Lyon's French forward Alexandre Lacazette (R) vies with Bastia's French defender Francois Modesto (L) during the French L1 football match between Olympique Lyonnais against Sporting Club de Bastia on September 23, 2015 at the Gerland stadium in Lyon, Southeastern France.        AFP PHOTO / PHILIPPE DESMAZESPHILIPPE DESMAZES/AFP/Getty Images

Alexandre Lacazette has hit out at Lyon president Jean Michel Aulas for his role in the negotiations of him signing a new deal at the club.

Rotherham United part company with Evans after poor start to the season

Rotherham United manager Steve Evans and assistant Paul Raynor have left the club after three and a half years in the job following a meeting with chairman Tony Stewart.

Hamilton takes step closer to third title after dominant drive to seal Japanese GP victory

Lewis Hamilton wins Japanese Grand Prix ahead of Nico Rosberg and Sebastian Vettel

MATT MORLIDGE IN SUZUKA: The ease in which Lewis Hamilton muscled Nico Rosberg out of his path on Sunday demonstrated his clear superiority over his team-mate. The first corner summed up the season. Pole-sitter Rosberg was forced off the track and out of the title race via a small shunt from Hamilton, who dominated from start to finish.

Sharapova's return from injury cut short by wrist trouble as she pulls out of the Wuhan Open in China

Maria Sharapova's return from injury cut short by wrist trouble

Maria Sharapova's return from injury after an almost three-month break was cut short on Monday after the world number three suffered a wrist injury at the Wuhan Open in China. The Russian, who missed the entire US hardcourt season with a leg injury, was into a deciding set against Czech player Barbora Strycova when she called for the trainer.

Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots are early pace-setters as Pittsburgh Steelers lose Roethlisberger to knee injury 

Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots are early pace-setters as Pittsburgh Steelers

There were stirring comebacks, one-sided wins, injuries to key players and Chicago's first shutout since 2002 in the third week of the NFL season. Both the New England Patriots and the Arizona Cardinals continued their flawless early season form with crushing victories.

Botham set for latest epic adventure as England cricket icon walks across South Africa for charity  

Ian Botham's charity walk in Sri Lanka. Sir Ian Botham on the tarmac at a military air base ready to fly to the start of the walk in Kilinochchi.
. REXMAILPIX.

England cricketing icon Sir Ian Botham is lacing up his walking boots and taking to the open road once again in another epic fundraising challenge - this time in South Africa

F1 second-tier teams Force India and Sauber lodge prize-money complaint

Formula One's second-tier teams have gone through with their long-held threat of taking their grievances to the EU. Force India and Sauber are among those accusing.

Peacock admits to having second thoughts over retirement, but Leeds forwards plans to stick with decision 

Leeds forward Jamie Peacock admits he has considered changing his mind about retirement but says he will go through with his plans to hang up his boots next month.

Alonso claims he wants to stay with McLaren as U-turn completes humiliating Japanese Grand Prix 

epa04952353 Spanish Formula One driver Fernando Alonso of McLaren-Honda arrives at the starting grid before the Japanese Formula One Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka, central Japan, 27 September 2015.  EPA/DIEGO AZUBEL

Fernando Alonso has claimed he wants to end his Formula One career at McLaren only hours after suggesting he may not even be in the sport next season.

Cook and Anderson proud of 'maturing' England ahead of UAE tour 

England captain Alastair Cook and James Anderson celebrate with the ashes urn in the dressing rooms after the 5th Investec Ashes Test match between England and Australia at The Kia Oval in London, England.

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 23:  
(Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Alastair Cook will lead England into their forthcoming three-Test series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates hoping his young side can take another step forward.

Castleford closing in on move after approval for planning permission on £135m development at Glasshoughton

Castleford's move to a new stadium moved a step closer on Monday when final approval was given for a £135million development at Glasshoughton.

Treve is better than ever, insists her trainer Head-Maarek ahead of assault on Qatar Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe

French racehorse trainer Christiane Head-Maarek is pictured with 5-year-old French Thoroughbred racehorse "Treve" and rider Pascal Galoche in Gouvieux, north of Paris, during early training on September 23, 2015. Head is hoping to win the 94th Qatar Prix del'Arc De Triomphe horse race for the third time in a row with Treve , on October 4, 2015. AFP PHOTO / JACQUES DEMARTHONJACQUES DEMARTHON/AFP/Getty Images

Trainer Criquette Head-Maarek has insisted Treve is in the form of her life ahead of her attempt to win the Qatar Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe for an historic third time on Sunday.

Robin Goodfellow's Racing Tips: Best bets for Tuesday, September 28

BATH, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 28: Grams and Ounces ridden by Callum Shepperd(middle) races clear to win the Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions Handicap at Bath Racecourse on September 28, 2015 in Bath, England.  (Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images)

Sportsmail racing expert Robin Goodfellow gives his guides to the hottest selections from Tuesday's races at Ayr, Southwell and Wolverhampton.

Toxic sponsors should give football back its history... Tony Macaroni Arena is just latest and worst example of corporate vandalism

Toxic sponsors should give football back its history... Tony Macaroni Arena is just latest

OLIVER HOLT: Tony Macaroni is a marketing man's brainchild. It is the name of a chain of Italian restaurants in Scotland and, a few days ago, it became the latest corporate raider choosing to demean a football club and its fans. Because last week, Scottish Championship side Livingston declared that their stadium, which was once called plain Almondvale Stadium, would henceforth be known as the Tony Macaroni Arena as part of a new sponsorship deal.

MARTIN SAMUEL: Why it really is win or bust for Arsenal in the Champions League this week... even this early on

Arsenal's seemingly innocuous encounter with Olympiacos is a must-win match for Arsene Wenger in the Champions League as two matches against Bayern Munich are next.

JAMIE CARRAGHER: Chelsea will ask if Costa is worth the hassle - he's more interested in fighting than scoring

Is he worth the hassle? It is a question all managers will ask themselves about the players who give them most trouble, like Diego Costa at Chelsea.

Becky back on her bike in her quest to make Rio squad as boyfriend North prepares for Wales World Cup clash

BECKY JAMES: It's been an emotional roller-coaster but I'm finally getting my confidence back. After this weekend I can focus on making it to the Olympics in Rio.