Liverpool’s season finally begins as they beat Pompey 4-1. Steven Gerrard may get a bit of natural justice for his V-sign at Andre Marriner last week by being hit with an FA charge after allegedly elbowing Michael Brown in the head. With it being World Cup year I’m not going to hold my breath.

Meanwhile in League 2, former Hayes and Fisher striker Jeff Goulding’s late equaliser rescues a point for Bournemouth in their promotion 6 pointer at Meadow Lane. Eddie Howe’s got to be a shoo-in for manager of the year surely?

Mark Hughes is the leading name on Hull’s shortlist.

Chelsea v Inter tonight. Lots of talk with Mourinho returning to Stamford Bridge. Can he get his side set up to keep the Blues’ at bay? I am backing Chelsea to sneak it 2-0 on the night. Sevilla take on CSKA Moscow in the other tie, 1-1 after the first leg.

Villa travel to Wigan looking to boost their bid for 4th spot, there’s a full programme in the Championship as well.

Hendon host Canvey Island. 0-0.

Plymouth and West Brom are both fined for their parts in a ‘mass handbag event’ a few months ago.

The Old Firm are kept apart in the draw for the Skol Cup Semi Finals.

Brian Mawhinney says that salary capping in the football league is inevitable. It’s been a roaring success in the Conference.

Finally, congratulations to Newport County for securing their promotion to the Blue Square Premier after beating Havant & Waterlooville last night 2-0. A complete and utter class above.