Italy Racism Ruling, More League Cup, Midweek Serie A & La Liga, Red Bull, Michael Jackson Comes Down

No longer...

No upsets in yesterday's Capital One Cup action. Chelsea, Spurs, Sunderland, Man City, and West Ham all won. Here's a review. Today's fare is far more tasty, with Liverpool's trip to Old Trafford the main event. Luis Alberto Suárez Díaz was on the bus for the Reds and he's ready to take a bite out of Manchester United. Sorry. So, it's a big comeback for the feisty Uruguayan. Let's take a moment to look back at how Cantona, Di Canio, Ferguson and Ferdinand fared on their returns. In the other match of note, expect to see loads of new faces as Arsenal go to West Brom. And an old one, too.

There's also midweek action in Spain. Neymar notched his first for Barcelona as they cruised past Real Sociedad 4-1 and remained perfect for the campaign. Oh, and Messi scored. Here's a wrap of yesterday's stuff in Spain.

There's also midweek action in Italy. Although there were matches yesterday and today, the main event arrived in the form of a decision by the Italian FA. AC Milan's supporters were charged with racial abuse in the match against Napoli, but it's not all cut and dry. Gabby Marcotti explains.

Marina Hyde is a great scribe. Today she's talking about absurd football award ceremonies. Take a look.

We've got a focus on New York Red Bull (click that at your own risk). They are currently tops in MLS. Mike Petke is their coach. Can they finally succeed?

There are tears flowing around SSN Headquarters today. This is why: The controversial Michael Jackson statue that has stood outside Fulham's Craven Cottage ground for more than two years was removed on Wednesday morning. It's all quite tragic, really, but The Editor, TSB, and Bobby BS were fortunate enough to experience the elegance and beauty of the statue in person, and they are going to have to rely on those memories moving forward. Sniff.

-SSN