English football is a step closer to reintroducing artificial pitches after the Football League announced plans to seek opinion on their possible return. The public consultation will run until the end of April and canvass the views of clubs, fans and officials.

"Chaos on roads and railways to continue today, warn forecasters." That headline appeared over a news story on Monday. It happens every winter: severe weather is greeted by the absurdly overdramatic word "chaos". Of course, "chaos" is a short word, and as such very difficult to keep out of headlines.

Wigan 1 Everton 1

When John Terry was last relieved of his duties as captain of England it was a decision made by Fabio Capello. A four-man gathering of the Football Association's key suited players, including the chairman Lord Triesman, decided to leave the manager to have the final say. This time it was the chairman, David Bernstein, who took the lead and the chairman who informed Terry of his fate. The events of the last two days at the business end of Wembley Way have smacked of firm and decisive leadership, something that has not always appeared the FA way.

Everton 1 Manchester City 0

Portsmouth have been issued with a winding-up petition by HM Revenue and Customs.

Sunderland 2 Swansea 0

Aston Villa 1 Everton 1

The Gambia offers sunshine and sunloungers on its Atlantic coast, but it's easy to get off the beaten track and experience a different side of this West African state.

Rafael van der Vaart claims Tottenham must now be taken seriously as Barclays Premier League title contenders - and they will show leaders Manchester City just why at the Etihad Stadium the weekend after next.

Tottenham Hotspur 2 Everton 0

Portsmouth are close to announcing new owners, according to administrator Andrew Andronikou.

Sunderland 1 Everton 1

Umbro downplay association with England captain, who heads for court on 1 February