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Jose Mourinho slammed his Manchester United stars after they conceded a late equaliser in a 2-2 draw against 10-man Leicester that left them 13 points adrift of leaders Manchester City.&nbsp;United was already trailing in City&#39;s wake, but Harry Maguire&#39;s 94th-minute leveler at the King Power Stadium on Saturday was another hammer blow to their title hopes just hours after their rivals had beaten Bournemouth.

Mourinho&#39;s side had missed several superb chances to move 3-1 ahead and effectively kill off Leicester and the United boss was furious with his players&#39; finishing and the sloppy way they allowed Maguire to equalise.&nbsp;&quot;It is as bad as a defeat&quot;, said Mourinho. &quot;Sometimes you take a point and you say &#39;OK&#39; and you accept it as it was hard to get a positive result.&nbsp;

&quot;That is not the case. It is a game to win easily. It is a big frustration as they are easy goals to score and easy goals to kill the game but not just the goals we missed, also some easy way out to counter-attack where we lost the ball quite easily.&nbsp;&quot;On top of that, in the last couple of minutes, we allow the opposition to throw a few balls into the box, with Christian Fuchs&#39; hands and crosses.

&quot;We couldn&#39;t defend the last cross so I think we were punished by our mistakes in both penalty areas.&nbsp;&quot;There was a lack of maturity. I cannot stop the game and give a team talk&quot;, said Mourinho.&nbsp;

&quot;For the last two minutes, the players had to immediately adapt, to read the game, which they didn&#39;t so we had childish decisions in front of goal and bad decisions as it was not just about the goals we missed, or dribbling or hitting the post. &quot;It was not just about missing chances with an open goal, it was also about decisions. Easy decisions to make in easy transitions to counter-attack&quot;.

Childish decisions

Mourinho admitted he does not know whether all of his players will develop the maturity he needs.&nbsp;&quot;Some players they have childish decisions and time helps them to have the maturity and to decide better but some other players stay with childish decisions until the end of their career&quot;, he said.

&quot;You know it depends on what is inside and the way they learn or they don&#39;t learn&quot;.&nbsp;Leicester fought back despite having substitute Daniel Amartey sent off for two yellow cards in the space of five minutes.&nbsp;Foxes manager Claude Puel said: &quot;He took the second yellow card with naivety. Perhaps the first yellow card was a little harsh, but the second he needed to manage better.&nbsp;

&quot;He&#39;s a young player, he came into the game when there was a little pressure, there was intensity, rhythm, it was a difficult to come into the game.&nbsp;&quot;It was a good game for us against a great team. We started well. It was a fantastic first goal after regaining the possession&quot;, said Puel.

&quot;In the second half, we started well also, with quality. We made some fantastic opportunities to score, just after this, we conceded the free-kick. And just after it was a little harsh with the sending off of Amartey.&nbsp;&quot;It was a difficult scenario. We saw a fantastic spirit, the character of my players. They believed until the end&quot;.

'It is as bad as a defeat,' said Mourinho

Jose Mourinho slammed his Manchester United stars after they conceded a late equaliser in a 2-2 draw against 10-man Leicester that left them 13 points adrift of leaders Manchester City. United was already trailing in City's wake, but Harry Maguire's 94th-minute leveler at the King Power Stadium on Saturday was another hammer blow to their title hopes just hours after their rivals had beaten Bournemouth. Mourinho's side had missed several superb chances to move 3-1 ahead and effectively kill off Leicester and the United boss was furious with his players' finishing and the sloppy way they allowed Maguire to equalise. "It is as bad as a defeat", said Mourinho. "Sometimes you take a point and you say 'OK' and you accept it as it was hard to get a positive result. "That is not the case. It is a game to win easily. It is a big frustration as they are easy goals to score and easy goals to kill the game but not just the goals we missed, also some easy way out to counter-attack where we lost the ball quite easily. "On top of that, in the last couple of minutes, we allow the opposition to throw a few balls into the box, with Christian Fuchs' hands and crosses. "We couldn't defend the last cross so I think we were punished by our mistakes in both penalty areas. "There was a lack of maturity. I cannot stop the game and give a team talk", said Mourinho. "For the last two minutes, the players had to immediately adapt, to read the game, which they didn't so we had childish decisions in front of goal and bad decisions as it was not just about the goals we missed, or dribbling or hitting the post. "It was not just about missing chances with an open goal, it was also about decisions. Easy decisions to make in easy transitions to counter-attack". Childish decisions Mourinho admitted he does not know whether all of his players will develop the maturity he needs. "Some players they have childish decisions and time helps them to have the maturity and to decide better but some other players stay with childish decisions until the end of their career", he said. "You know it depends on what is inside and the way they learn or they don't learn". Leicester fought back despite having substitute Daniel Amartey sent off for two yellow cards in the space of five minutes. Foxes manager Claude Puel said: "He took the second yellow card with naivety. Perhaps the first yellow card was a little harsh, but the second he needed to manage better. "He's a young player, he came into the game when there was a little pressure, there was intensity, rhythm, it was a difficult to come into the game. "It was a good game for us against a great team. We started well. It was a fantastic first goal after regaining the possession", said Puel. "In the second half, we started well also, with quality. We made some fantastic opportunities to score, just after this, we conceded the free-kick. And just after it was a little harsh with the sending off of Amartey. "It was a difficult scenario. We saw a fantastic spirit, the character of my players. They believed until the end".

Mourinho lashes United after Leicester draw

Barcelona took a huge step towards regaining the La Liga title as goals from Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi and Aleix Vidal beat bitter rivals Real Madrid 3-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday to open up a 14-point lead over the European champions.

In a recurring theme of this season, Madrid were made to pay for Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema missing first-half chances as Barca took control after half-time.

Suarez rounded off a flowing counter-attack to open the scoring before Messi blasted home a penalty after Madrid defender Dani Carvajal was sent-off for punching the ball off the goal line.

And Messi was the creator as Vidal rubbed salt into Real&#39;s wounds deep into stoppage time.

&quot;The league isn&#39;t finished, we haven&#39;t even completed the first half of the season,&quot; claimed Barca boss Ernesto Valverde over his side&#39;s seemingly unassailable advantage.

However, victory extends Barca&#39;s unbeaten run to 25 games in all competitions as they moved nine points clear of second-placed Atletico Madrid and exacted revenge for a 5-1 thrashing on aggregate in the Spanish Super Cup at the hands of Real in August.

Madrid do still have a game in hand over Barca to marginally reduce the gap at the top, but their efforts in the new year are now likely to be more focused on becoming the first side to win three consecutive Champions League titles in over 40 years.

&quot;We are down because it is a defeat that hurts,&quot; said Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane.

&quot;Madrid never give up, whatever happens. It is a difficult moment because we&#39;ve lost by three goals. I could say we don&#39;t deserve it, but that is football.&quot;

Despite the clash between the Spanish capital&#39;s and Catalonia&#39;s two giants taking place just two days after three parties favouring independence for the prosperous region from Spain retained an absolute majority in the Catalan parliament, there was little attention paid to politics inside the ground once the action got underway.

Madrid fans unfurled a huge banner proclaiming it to be a &quot;white Christmas&quot; after they claimed a club record five trophies in 2017.

However, it is Barca who will enjoy the upcoming winter break more after a second-half display which showed the turning of the tide their way since August has been no fluke.

It could have been very different for the hosts if Ronaldo had buried a huge opportunity when he completely miskicked just 10 minutes in.

Barca didn&#39;t threaten at all until the half-hour mark when Messi finally found some room in a congested midfield to pick out Paulinho&#39;s late run and the Brazilian&#39;s acrobatic effort was matched by a flying save from Keylor Navas.

Seconds later it was Marc-Andre ter Stegen to demonstrate why he has been one of the keys to Barca&#39;s success this season by getting an outstretched toe to turn Ronaldo&#39;s fiercely struck shot behind.

Benzema was inches away from giving Real a half-time lead as he headed against the post two minutes before the break.

However, Barca came out a different side in the second period to almost certainly put the title out of Madrid&#39;s reach.

&quot;In the second-half, we managed to impose our control on the game,&quot; added Valverde.

Nine minutes after the break Sergio Busquets&#39;s calm opened up the Madrid midfield as he fed Ivan Rakitic and Sergi Roberto eventually crossed to Suarez to apply the finishing touch.

Suarez was spared the embarrassment of missing two huge chances in an incredible goalmouth scramble that led to Barca&#39;s second.

Navas saved Suarez&#39;s first effort before he fired against the post with the goal at his mercy, but Paulinho&#39;s follow-up was punched off the line by Dani Carvajal.

The Spanish international accepted his punishment of a red card and Messi dispatched the resulting penalty into the top corner to kill the game as a contest.

Ter Stegen produced more heroics to ensure there was no Real fightback as he again denied Ronaldo.

And Barca put the seal of a stunning victory in stoppage time when Vidal drove Messi&#39;s cut-back towards goal and the ball squeezed in under Navas.

In a recurring theme of this season Madrid were made to pay for Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema missing first-half chances as Barca took control after half-time

Barcelona took a huge step towards regaining the La Liga title as goals from Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi and Aleix Vidal beat bitter rivals Real Madrid 3-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday to open up a 14-point lead over the European champions. In a recurring theme of this season, Madrid were made to pay for Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema missing first-half chances as Barca took control after half-time. Suarez rounded off a flowing counter-attack to open the scoring before Messi blasted home a penalty after Madrid defender Dani Carvajal was sent-off for punching the ball off the goal line. And Messi was the creator as Vidal rubbed salt into Real's wounds deep into stoppage time. "The league isn't finished, we haven't even completed the first half of the season," claimed Barca boss Ernesto Valverde over his side's seemingly unassailable advantage. However, victory extends Barca's unbeaten run to 25 games in all competitions as they moved nine points clear of second-placed Atletico Madrid and exacted revenge for a 5-1 thrashing on aggregate in the Spanish Super Cup at the hands of Real in August. Madrid do still have a game in hand over Barca to marginally reduce the gap at the top, but their efforts in the new year are now likely to be more focused on becoming the first side to win three consecutive Champions League titles in over 40 years. "We are down because it is a defeat that hurts," said Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane. "Madrid never give up, whatever happens. It is a difficult moment because we've lost by three goals. I could say we don't deserve it, but that is football." Despite the clash between the Spanish capital's and Catalonia's two giants taking place just two days after three parties favouring independence for the prosperous region from Spain retained an absolute majority in the Catalan parliament, there was little attention paid to politics inside the ground once the action got underway. Madrid fans unfurled a huge banner proclaiming it to be a "white Christmas" after they claimed a club record five trophies in 2017. However, it is Barca who will enjoy the upcoming winter break more after a second-half display which showed the turning of the tide their way since August has been no fluke. It could have been very different for the hosts if Ronaldo had buried a huge opportunity when he completely miskicked just 10 minutes in. Barca didn't threaten at all until the half-hour mark when Messi finally found some room in a congested midfield to pick out Paulinho's late run and the Brazilian's acrobatic effort was matched by a flying save from Keylor Navas. Seconds later it was Marc-Andre ter Stegen to demonstrate why he has been one of the keys to Barca's success this season by getting an outstretched toe to turn Ronaldo's fiercely struck shot behind. Benzema was inches away from giving Real a half-time lead as he headed against the post two minutes before the break. However, Barca came out a different side in the second period to almost certainly put the title out of Madrid's reach. "In the second-half, we managed to impose our control on the game," added Valverde. Nine minutes after the break Sergio Busquets's calm opened up the Madrid midfield as he fed Ivan Rakitic and Sergi Roberto eventually crossed to Suarez to apply the finishing touch. Suarez was spared the embarrassment of missing two huge chances in an incredible goalmouth scramble that led to Barca's second. Navas saved Suarez's first effort before he fired against the post with the goal at his mercy, but Paulinho's follow-up was punched off the line by Dani Carvajal. The Spanish international accepted his punishment of a red card and Messi dispatched the resulting penalty into the top corner to kill the game as a contest. Ter Stegen produced more heroics to ensure there was no Real fightback as he again denied Ronaldo. And Barca put the seal of a stunning victory in stoppage time when Vidal drove Messi's cut-back towards goal and the ball squeezed in under Navas.

Clasico: Barca beat Real 3-0, go 14 points clear of them

Goals by Sergio Aguero, who scored twice, Raheem Sterling and Danilo enabled leaders Manchester City to extend their record-breaking run to 17 successive Premier League wins as they thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 on Saturday.

The run had begun with victory in added time away to the same opposition in August. This one was much more comfortable and dropped Bournemouth into the bottom three.

Aguero set Pep Guardiola&#39;s team on their way in the 27th minute. Goalkeeper Asmir Begovic lost possession with a poor clearance and Aguero met Fernandinho&#39;s pass with a diving header.

Soon after halftime leading scorer Sterling finished a fine move involving David Silva and Aguero, who then headed his second of the afternoon from a cross by substitute Bernardo Silva.

Danilo, another substitute, scored the fourth within three minutes of coming on to leave manager Guardiola satisfied at having overcome defensive opposition again.

&quot;It was so tough because they play five at the back and 10 players behind (the ball),&quot; he said.

&quot;So space was almost impossible to find and we were lucky to score the first goal. The last 20 minutes they pushed up and after that we played a really good game.

&quot;A good performance and we were ready mentally again.

&quot;Now it&#39;s a merry Christmas and thinking about (playing) Newcastle.&quot;

Manchester City thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 on Saturday

Goals by Sergio Aguero, who scored twice, Raheem Sterling and Danilo enabled leaders Manchester City to extend their record-breaking run to 17 successive Premier League wins as they thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 on Saturday. The run had begun with victory in added time away to the same opposition in August. This one was much more comfortable and dropped Bournemouth into the bottom three. Aguero set Pep Guardiola's team on their way in the 27th minute. Goalkeeper Asmir Begovic lost possession with a poor clearance and Aguero met Fernandinho's pass with a diving header. Soon after halftime leading scorer Sterling finished a fine move involving David Silva and Aguero, who then headed his second of the afternoon from a cross by substitute Bernardo Silva. Danilo, another substitute, scored the fourth within three minutes of coming on to leave manager Guardiola satisfied at having overcome defensive opposition again. "It was so tough because they play five at the back and 10 players behind (the ball)," he said. "So space was almost impossible to find and we were lucky to score the first goal. The last 20 minutes they pushed up and after that we played a really good game. "A good performance and we were ready mentally again. "Now it's a merry Christmas and thinking about (playing) Newcastle."

EPL: City make it 17 in a row

Cristiano Ronaldo trained alone on Thursday ahead of Real Madrid&#39;s clash against Barcelona this weekend, after sustaining a knock to his calf during the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi.

The Portugal star received rough treatment as he scored the winner in last Saturday&#39;s 1-0 victory over Brazilians Gremio in the final, but Ronaldo had insisted he would be fit for the visit of Barcelona.

&quot;Cristiano Ronaldo trained alone out on the pitch, both with and without the ball,&quot; Real wrote on their website, two days ahead of Saturday&#39;s Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Following Real&#39;s return to Spain, the five-time Ballon d&#39;Or recipient had remained in the gym on Tuesday and Wednesday before finally lacing up his boots for an individual training session on Thursday.

Spanish sports daily As reported it was simply a &quot;precaution&quot; as Real look to trim the 11-point gap between themselves and leaders Barcelona, who are unbeaten in La Liga this season.

&quot;He will play in the Clasico barring last-minute surprise,&quot; the paper added.

Zinedine Zidane&#39;s Real, who also trail Atletico Madrid and Valencia, are fourth in the table and realistically must win this weekend to remain in the running for the Spanish title.

Cristiano took a knock to his calf during the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi

Cristiano Ronaldo trained alone on Thursday ahead of Real Madrid's clash against Barcelona this weekend, after sustaining a knock to his calf during the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi. The Portugal star received rough treatment as he scored the winner in last Saturday's 1-0 victory over Brazilians Gremio in the final, but Ronaldo had insisted he would be fit for the visit of Barcelona. "Cristiano Ronaldo trained alone out on the pitch, both with and without the ball," Real wrote on their website, two days ahead of Saturday's Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu. Following Real's return to Spain, the five-time Ballon d'Or recipient had remained in the gym on Tuesday and Wednesday before finally lacing up his boots for an individual training session on Thursday. Spanish sports daily As reported it was simply a "precaution" as Real look to trim the 11-point gap between themselves and leaders Barcelona, who are unbeaten in La Liga this season. "He will play in the Clasico barring last-minute surprise," the paper added. Zinedine Zidane's Real, who also trail Atletico Madrid and Valencia, are fourth in the table and realistically must win this weekend to remain in the running for the Spanish title.

Ronaldo fitness worry ahead of Clasico

Former Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky has retired from football at the age of 37.

Following 10 years in the Premier League with Arsenal, the former Czech Republic international returned to Sparta Prague, where he started his career, in 2016.

Rosicky&#39;s career was&nbsp;plagued by injury for much of that decade and put his decision to hang up his boots down to being unable to keep up with the physical demands of football.

&quot;After careful consideration, I have realised I am no longer able to fully prepare my body for what the professional football requires,&quot; Rosicky said, explaining his mid-season announcement.

&quot;I would like to thank Sparta for raising me, for being the first step in my career in big clubs, and for allowing me to say goodbye at the place I love the most.&quot;

Rosicky won two FA Cups at Arsenal but failed to make more than 28 Premier League appearances in any campaign at the club.

The midfielder made more than 100 appearances for his national team.

The former Czech Republic international returned to Sparta Prague, where he started his career, in 2016 following 10 years in the Premier League with Arsenal.

Former Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky has retired from football at the age of 37. Following 10 years in the Premier League with Arsenal, the former Czech Republic international returned to Sparta Prague, where he started his career, in 2016. Rosicky's career was plagued by injury for much of that decade and put his decision to hang up his boots down to being unable to keep up with the physical demands of football. "After careful consideration, I have realised I am no longer able to fully prepare my body for what the professional football requires," Rosicky said, explaining his mid-season announcement. "I would like to thank Sparta for raising me, for being the first step in my career in big clubs, and for allowing me to say goodbye at the place I love the most." Rosicky won two FA Cups at Arsenal but failed to make more than 28 Premier League appearances in any campaign at the club. The midfielder made more than 100 appearances for his national team.

Tomas Rosicky retires after career in Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund and Sparta Prague

Everton manager Sam Allardyce&rsquo;s ability to quickly get teams out of relegation trouble is the defining characteristic of his management career but his impact at Goodison Park has been so swift he is already looking at a top-half finish.

Everton&#39;s 3-1 win over Swansea City on Monday pushed the Merseysiders up to ninth in the Premier League and the worries of a long scrap against the drop already seem a distant memory.

&quot;The target now? Top half but let&rsquo;s not get carried away,&quot; said former England manager Allardyce after second-half goals from Gylfi Sigurdsson and Wayne Rooney, with a penalty, had secured a comeback victory over the bottom-placed Welsh club.

Everton were in the relegation zone when they sacked Dutchman Ronald Koeman on Oct. 23 following a humiliating 5-2 loss at home to Arsenal.

The club&rsquo;s Under-23 coach David Unsworth then had an extended spell as caretaker manager during which he managed just two wins in eight games.

Unsworth&#39;s second and final win, a 4-0 success against West Ham United, came with Allardyce already watching from the stands and, while he was not on the bench for that game, he is making sure that victory counts on his record.

Since formally taking the role, Everton have beaten Huddersfield Town and Newcastle United and drawn at local rivals Liverpool before Monday&#39;s win.

&ldquo;To collect 13 out of 15 points is outstanding considering the position where we have come from,&rdquo; said Allardyce.

&quot;We have scored 11 goals in five games and kept clean sheets. We are a team that comes back from 1-0 down to win and that shows the character.&quot;

Never relegated&nbsp;

Allardyce, 63, has never had a team of his relegated from the Premier League, despite working with clubs such as Sunderland and Crystal Palace who were in deep trouble when he took over.

He managed to maintain top flight football for clubs such as Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers and took West Ham back into the Premier League &ndash; and kept them there - after their relegation.

Focusing on solid defending and good organisation has again brought results for the man dubbed &lsquo;Fireman Sam&rsquo; but he said his assistants, such as former Leicester City boss Craig Shakespeare and veteran coach Sammy Lee, deserved their share of the credit.

&ldquo;From a tactical point of view, I&rsquo;ve simplified the game and I&rsquo;m man-managing the players. I brought some experienced and talented staff with me, along with the rest of the staff &ndash; I want everyone to get better. To turn around so quickly is great credit to everyone. Not just me,&rdquo; he said.

&quot;What looked like a desperate situation is becoming a comfortable one. And now people are looking up the table rather than down. The last clubs I took over were tougher to turn around initially,&quot; he said.

The next test for Everton comes against third-placed champions Chelsea at Goodison on Saturday.

&quot;We&rsquo;ve got to try and get a result against Chelsea and then we&rsquo;ll really know what we&rsquo;re made of,&quot; added Allardyce.

&quot;With this confidence, if we can get a result we&rsquo;re on the right track for finishing as high as we can. Let&rsquo;s see if the lads can pull one out of the bag.&quot;

Everton's 3-1 win over Swansea City on Monday pushed the Merseysiders up to ninth in the Premier League and the worries of a long scrap against the drop already seem a distant memory.

Everton manager Sam Allardyce’s ability to quickly get teams out of relegation trouble is the defining characteristic of his management career but his impact at Goodison Park has been so swift he is already looking at a top-half finish. Everton's 3-1 win over Swansea City on Monday pushed the Merseysiders up to ninth in the Premier League and the worries of a long scrap against the drop already seem a distant memory. "The target now? Top half but let’s not get carried away," said former England manager Allardyce after second-half goals from Gylfi Sigurdsson and Wayne Rooney, with a penalty, had secured a comeback victory over the bottom-placed Welsh club. Everton were in the relegation zone when they sacked Dutchman Ronald Koeman on Oct. 23 following a humiliating 5-2 loss at home to Arsenal. The club’s Under-23 coach David Unsworth then had an extended spell as caretaker manager during which he managed just two wins in eight games. Unsworth's second and final win, a 4-0 success against West Ham United, came with Allardyce already watching from the stands and, while he was not on the bench for that game, he is making sure that victory counts on his record. Since formally taking the role, Everton have beaten Huddersfield Town and Newcastle United and drawn at local rivals Liverpool before Monday's win. “To collect 13 out of 15 points is outstanding considering the position where we have come from,” said Allardyce. "We have scored 11 goals in five games and kept clean sheets. We are a team that comes back from 1-0 down to win and that shows the character." Never relegated Allardyce, 63, has never had a team of his relegated from the Premier League, despite working with clubs such as Sunderland and Crystal Palace who were in deep trouble when he took over. He managed to maintain top flight football for clubs such as Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers and took West Ham back into the Premier League – and kept them there - after their relegation. Focusing on solid defending and good organisation has again brought results for the man dubbed ‘Fireman Sam’ but he said his assistants, such as former Leicester City boss Craig Shakespeare and veteran coach Sammy Lee, deserved their share of the credit. “From a tactical point of view, I’ve simplified the game and I’m man-managing the players. I brought some experienced and talented staff with me, along with the rest of the staff – I want everyone to get better. To turn around so quickly is great credit to everyone. Not just me,” he said. "What looked like a desperate situation is becoming a comfortable one. And now people are looking up the table rather than down. The last clubs I took over were tougher to turn around initially," he said. The next test for Everton comes against third-placed champions Chelsea at Goodison on Saturday. "We’ve got to try and get a result against Chelsea and then we’ll really know what we’re made of," added Allardyce. "With this confidence, if we can get a result we’re on the right track for finishing as high as we can. Let’s see if the lads can pull one out of the bag."

Allardyce makes instant impact as Everton rise into top half

Manchester United survived a tense finale to beat West Bromwich Albion 2-1 at the Hawthorns on Sunday and close to within 11 points of Premier League leaders Manchester City.

United&#39;s former West Brom striker Romelu Lukaku scored his 15th goal of the season in the 27th minute by heading home Marcus Rashford&rsquo;s left-wing cross.

Midfielder Jesse Lingard doubled the lead with a deflected shot from the edge of the penalty area eight minutes later.

United appeared to be on course for a comfortable win, but West Brom set up a nervous finish for Jose Mourinho&rsquo;s side when substitute Gareth Barry poked home from close range following a corner in the 77th minute.

United hung on, however, to restore their three-point advantage over third-placed Chelsea. West Brom have now gone 16 league matches without a win and remained second bottom, two points from safety.

&quot;I think we deserved the win,&quot; Mourinho told Sky Sports. &quot;We were the best team. We controlled the game for a long, long time.&quot;

United spurned opportunities to kill the game off when Rashford slashed a right-footed shot wide in the 57th minute and Lingard fired straight at West Brom goalkeeper Ben Foster.

They then switched off at a set-piece to allow Barry to score and were lucky not to concede an equaliser when Jay Rodriguez headed wide from point-blank range with five minutes remaining.

&quot;We had a few chances to kill the game but I knew they would react,&quot; Mourinho added. &quot;The intensity in the first half maybe we didn&#39;t have in the second half.&quot;

West Brom manager Alan Pardew, who was appointed last month after Tony Pulis was sacked, made one change to the side who drew 0-0 against Liverpool on Wednesday.

&quot;The team I picked, in hindsight, was not the right team,&quot; Pardew said. &quot;I should have put some fresh legs in there, but they did so well at Liverpool that, I&rsquo;m a new manager, I wanted to show some faith in those players.

&quot;But I should have maybe made two or three changes. We looked leggy.&quot;

Manchester United, West Bromwich Albion, Premier League, Romelu Lukaku, Marcus Rashford

Manchester United survived a tense finale to beat West Bromwich Albion 2-1 at the Hawthorns on Sunday and close to within 11 points of Premier League leaders Manchester City. United's former West Brom striker Romelu Lukaku scored his 15th goal of the season in the 27th minute by heading home Marcus Rashford’s left-wing cross. Midfielder Jesse Lingard doubled the lead with a deflected shot from the edge of the penalty area eight minutes later. United appeared to be on course for a comfortable win, but West Brom set up a nervous finish for Jose Mourinho’s side when substitute Gareth Barry poked home from close range following a corner in the 77th minute. United hung on, however, to restore their three-point advantage over third-placed Chelsea. West Brom have now gone 16 league matches without a win and remained second bottom, two points from safety. "I think we deserved the win," Mourinho told Sky Sports. "We were the best team. We controlled the game for a long, long time." United spurned opportunities to kill the game off when Rashford slashed a right-footed shot wide in the 57th minute and Lingard fired straight at West Brom goalkeeper Ben Foster. They then switched off at a set-piece to allow Barry to score and were lucky not to concede an equaliser when Jay Rodriguez headed wide from point-blank range with five minutes remaining. "We had a few chances to kill the game but I knew they would react," Mourinho added. "The intensity in the first half maybe we didn't have in the second half." West Brom manager Alan Pardew, who was appointed last month after Tony Pulis was sacked, made one change to the side who drew 0-0 against Liverpool on Wednesday. "The team I picked, in hindsight, was not the right team," Pardew said. "I should have put some fresh legs in there, but they did so well at Liverpool that, I’m a new manager, I wanted to show some faith in those players. "But I should have maybe made two or three changes. We looked leggy."

Football: Lukaku, Lingard lift nervy Man United past West Brom

Pep Guardiola said Kevin De Bruyne incarnated Manchester City&#39;s future after the Belgian&#39;s sublime display inspired his side to an emphatic 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

De Bruyne smashed in City&#39;s second goal on Saturday and had a hand in their third, scored by Raheem Sterling, who went on to complete a brace as City registered a record-extending 16th successive Premier League win.

De Bruyne&#39;s hurtful passing repeatedly tore holes in the Spurs defence and Guardiola said that ability on the ball, allied to his exemplary work-rate, made him a figurehead for the club&#39;s young players.

&quot;Kevin is one of the most talented players and you see how he runs without the ball,&quot; said the City manager.

&quot;You cannot imagine how good he plays with the ball, but he runs like a player in the Conference (semi-professional) league.

&quot;It&#39;s a good example for the young players, for our academy, for Phil Foden, for Brahim (Diaz). They know how good Kevin De Bruyne is. And when they see how he runs and he fights without the ball, that is the best example.

&quot;He helps us to be a better club, a better institution for the future. Because that is what we want to do. His performance today, I have no words.&quot;

The one-sided win at a misty Etihad Stadium gave City a provisional 14-point lead at the top of the table, ahead of second-place Manchester United&#39;s trip to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.

Guardiola has matched his best winning run in&nbsp;Barcelona from their all-conquering 2010-11 season and stands three wins short of his own record for Europe&#39;s five major leagues, which he set at Bayern Munich in 2013-14.

&quot;Of course I&#39;m proud,&quot; said Guardiola.

&quot;I don&#39;t want to be humble right now. I&#39;m proud of my staff to achieve that with three teams, every day being there. We work a lot and the players know that.

&quot;And of course that&#39;s happened because I was with three amazing clubs: Barcelona, Bayern Munich and this one. All three clubs supported me, all the decisions we believe in and they provide me with outstanding players.

&quot;Without good players and the club supporting your ideas, it&#39;s impossible to achieve this kind of thing.&quot;

Ilkay Gundogan put City ahead in the 14th minute, ghosting in unmarked to head Leroy Sane&#39;s corner past Hugo Lloris.

After Spurs rallied in the second half, De Bruyne carried the game beyond them, rifling home a left-foot shot in the 70th minute and sparking the move that culminated in Sane teeing up Sterling for a tap-in. 
&nbsp;

"Kevin is one of the most talented players and you see how he runs without the ball," said the City manager.

Pep Guardiola said Kevin De Bruyne incarnated Manchester City's future after the Belgian's sublime display inspired his side to an emphatic 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. De Bruyne smashed in City's second goal on Saturday and had a hand in their third, scored by Raheem Sterling, who went on to complete a brace as City registered a record-extending 16th successive Premier League win. De Bruyne's hurtful passing repeatedly tore holes in the Spurs defence and Guardiola said that ability on the ball, allied to his exemplary work-rate, made him a figurehead for the club's young players. "Kevin is one of the most talented players and you see how he runs without the ball," said the City manager. "You cannot imagine how good he plays with the ball, but he runs like a player in the Conference (semi-professional) league. "It's a good example for the young players, for our academy, for Phil Foden, for Brahim (Diaz). They know how good Kevin De Bruyne is. And when they see how he runs and he fights without the ball, that is the best example. "He helps us to be a better club, a better institution for the future. Because that is what we want to do. His performance today, I have no words." The one-sided win at a misty Etihad Stadium gave City a provisional 14-point lead at the top of the table, ahead of second-place Manchester United's trip to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. Guardiola has matched his best winning run in Barcelona from their all-conquering 2010-11 season and stands three wins short of his own record for Europe's five major leagues, which he set at Bayern Munich in 2013-14. "Of course I'm proud," said Guardiola. "I don't want to be humble right now. I'm proud of my staff to achieve that with three teams, every day being there. We work a lot and the players know that. "And of course that's happened because I was with three amazing clubs: Barcelona, Bayern Munich and this one. All three clubs supported me, all the decisions we believe in and they provide me with outstanding players. "Without good players and the club supporting your ideas, it's impossible to achieve this kind of thing." Ilkay Gundogan put City ahead in the 14th minute, ghosting in unmarked to head Leroy Sane's corner past Hugo Lloris. After Spurs rallied in the second half, De Bruyne carried the game beyond them, rifling home a left-foot shot in the 70th minute and sparking the move that culminated in Sane teeing up Sterling for a tap-in.

Football: De Bruyne is my Manchester City blueprint, says Guardiola

&nbsp;Cristiano Ronaldo scored with a free kick which went through the defensive wall to break Gremio&#39;s brave resistance and give Real Madrid a 1-0 victory over the South American champions in the Club World Cup final on Saturday (December 16).

Ronaldo&#39;s 53rd-minute strike gave Real their second world title in a row, the third in the last four seasons, and ended Gremio&#39;s hopes of pulling off what would have been a huge upset.

The European champions, enjoying the backing of most neutrals at the Zayed Sports City Stadium, dominated as expected, with 20 shots on goal to Gremio&#39;s one, but the much more limited Brazilians still made their lives uncomfortable.

Overall, it was the Spanish club&#39;s sixth world title as they also won the old Intercontinental Cup -- now recognised by FIFA -- three times.

Real also extended European dominance with 10 wins out of 13 since the club cup was started in its current form in 2005, reflecting the region&#39;s financial dominance in the sport.

The dynamics of modern football mean that the best South American, Asian and African players line up against, rather than for, the teams from their own continents, and Real&#39;s side on Saturday included Brazilians Marcelo and Casemiro.

Gremio coach Renato Portaluppi won the old International Cup as a player with the same club in 1983 when his two goals gave them a 2-1 win over Hamburg SV but a repeat never looked on the cards.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has admitted the tournament needs a revamp and wants to replace it with a new one featuring up to 24 teams.

Gremio survived the first half with their goal intact thanks to some resolute, last-ditch tackling.

Pedro Geromel cleared Daniel Carvajal&#39;s shot off the line with goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe beaten, and Walter Kannemann made a last-gasp saving tackle on Ronaldo as he was about to shoot.

Real broke through after Ronaldo won a free kick around 25 metres from goal. As usual, the Portuguese took it himself and blasted a low shot which flew through the wall, bounced and squeezed inside Grohe&#39;s near post.

Ronaldo had another goal disallowed for a hairline offside decision. After that Modric burst through the midfield and fired against the post and Grohe made more saves from Ronaldo and substitute Gareth Bale to keep down the score.

Speaking after the match, Ronaldo said that it was a trophy they wanted and deserved to win.

Ronaldo's 53rd-minute strike gave Real their second world title in a row, the third in the last four seasons, and ended Gremio's hopes of pulling off what would have been a huge upset.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored with a free kick which went through the defensive wall to break Gremio's brave resistance and give Real Madrid a 1-0 victory over the South American champions in the Club World Cup final on Saturday (December 16). Ronaldo's 53rd-minute strike gave Real their second world title in a row, the third in the last four seasons, and ended Gremio's hopes of pulling off what would have been a huge upset. The European champions, enjoying the backing of most neutrals at the Zayed Sports City Stadium, dominated as expected, with 20 shots on goal to Gremio's one, but the much more limited Brazilians still made their lives uncomfortable. Overall, it was the Spanish club's sixth world title as they also won the old Intercontinental Cup -- now recognised by FIFA -- three times. Real also extended European dominance with 10 wins out of 13 since the club cup was started in its current form in 2005, reflecting the region's financial dominance in the sport. The dynamics of modern football mean that the best South American, Asian and African players line up against, rather than for, the teams from their own continents, and Real's side on Saturday included Brazilians Marcelo and Casemiro. Gremio coach Renato Portaluppi won the old International Cup as a player with the same club in 1983 when his two goals gave them a 2-1 win over Hamburg SV but a repeat never looked on the cards. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has admitted the tournament needs a revamp and wants to replace it with a new one featuring up to 24 teams. Gremio survived the first half with their goal intact thanks to some resolute, last-ditch tackling. Pedro Geromel cleared Daniel Carvajal's shot off the line with goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe beaten, and Walter Kannemann made a last-gasp saving tackle on Ronaldo as he was about to shoot. Real broke through after Ronaldo won a free kick around 25 metres from goal. As usual, the Portuguese took it himself and blasted a low shot which flew through the wall, bounced and squeezed inside Grohe's near post. Ronaldo had another goal disallowed for a hairline offside decision. After that Modric burst through the midfield and fired against the post and Grohe made more saves from Ronaldo and substitute Gareth Bale to keep down the score. Speaking after the match, Ronaldo said that it was a trophy they wanted and deserved to win.

Ronaldo free-kick gives Real another world title

Manchester City set a new top-flight record of 15 consecutive wins as their seemingly unstoppable march towards the Premier League title continued with a 4-0 romp at bottom club Swansea City on Wednesday.

David Silva struck twice for Pep Guardiola&#39;s side as they went past Arsenal&#39;s 14-match winning sequence, although unlike the London club&#39;s, City&#39;s streak has been in a single season.

Manchester United kept up a distant pursuit as they toiled to a 1-0 defeat of Bournemouth at Old Trafford to remain 11 points adrift in second place, Romelu Lukaku&#39;s ninth league goal of the season proving just enough.

Liverpool and Arsenal could only draw 0-0 with struggling West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United respectively, allowing Tottenham Hotspur to move into fourth spot behind Chelsea thanks top a 2-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion as Serge Aurier scored his first goal for the club.

City have 49 points to United&#39;s 38 with champions Chelsea, who won at Huddersfield Town on Tuesday, on 35. Tottenham have 31, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference while Arsenal dropped to seventh with 30 points.

It was an enjoyable night for managers returning to former clubs as Sam Allardyce watched his Everton side win 1-0 at Newcastle United and Claude Puel&#39;s fast-improving Leicester City triumphed 4-1 at Southampton, the club who sacked him at the end of last season despite taking them to the League Cup final.

City hardly broke sweat as they turned their trip to south Wales into a training session despite making four changes to the side that won 2-1 at Manchester United on Sunday.

Silva opened the scoring from Bernardo Silva&#39;s cross and Kevin De Bruyne made it 2-0 with a free kick.

It was all over when the silky Silva played a one-two with Raheem Sterling to make it 3-0 early in the second half with his fourth goal in his last three games.

Sergio Aguero, back in the side with Gabriel Jesus rested, fired past Lukasz Fabianski to complete another masterclass from Guardiola&#39;s City slickers.

City form

While the purists are purring at City&#39;s form, you could only sympathise with Swansea boss Paul Clement who summed up what many of his peers might be feeling.

&quot;At times it was horrible to be on the sideline watching that, seeing my side trying but suffering for long periods,&quot; he said.

&quot;It was hard to watch at times because they were so dominant. One of the best sides I&#39;ve ever come across.&quot;

United looked flat after their chastening defeat against City and were indebted to Lukaku&#39;s powerful header and several good saves by David de Gea against a plucky Bournemouth.

Manager Jose Mourinho, distracted by reports of a fracas after the City defeat in which he was reported to have had milk thrown at him, admitted his side had been low on energy.

&quot;It was difficult match. They had one more day&#39;s rest than us, they were fresher than us, and mentally fresher because a big match takes more from our players,&quot; he said.

&quot;They were difficult opponents and difficult conditions. If we had scored the second it would have been a calm night.&quot;

Liverpool were left to rue a late disallowed goal for Dominic Solanke as they could find no way past West Brom, their second home draw in four days.

&quot;We can do better and we have to do better but on a night like this when you are not at your best you need a bit of luck,&quot; manager Juergen Klopp said.

Shinji Okazaki scored twice for Leicester as they racked up a fourth consecutive win, while Wayne Rooney earned Everton a 1-0 win at Newcastle United whose night ended in depressing fashion with a red card for Jonjo Shelvey.

United kept up a distant pursuit as they toiled to a 1-0 defeat of Bournemouth at Old Trafford to remain 11 points adrift in second place

Manchester City set a new top-flight record of 15 consecutive wins as their seemingly unstoppable march towards the Premier League title continued with a 4-0 romp at bottom club Swansea City on Wednesday. David Silva struck twice for Pep Guardiola's side as they went past Arsenal's 14-match winning sequence, although unlike the London club's, City's streak has been in a single season. Manchester United kept up a distant pursuit as they toiled to a 1-0 defeat of Bournemouth at Old Trafford to remain 11 points adrift in second place, Romelu Lukaku's ninth league goal of the season proving just enough. Liverpool and Arsenal could only draw 0-0 with struggling West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United respectively, allowing Tottenham Hotspur to move into fourth spot behind Chelsea thanks top a 2-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion as Serge Aurier scored his first goal for the club. City have 49 points to United's 38 with champions Chelsea, who won at Huddersfield Town on Tuesday, on 35. Tottenham have 31, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference while Arsenal dropped to seventh with 30 points. It was an enjoyable night for managers returning to former clubs as Sam Allardyce watched his Everton side win 1-0 at Newcastle United and Claude Puel's fast-improving Leicester City triumphed 4-1 at Southampton, the club who sacked him at the end of last season despite taking them to the League Cup final. City hardly broke sweat as they turned their trip to south Wales into a training session despite making four changes to the side that won 2-1 at Manchester United on Sunday. Silva opened the scoring from Bernardo Silva's cross and Kevin De Bruyne made it 2-0 with a free kick. It was all over when the silky Silva played a one-two with Raheem Sterling to make it 3-0 early in the second half with his fourth goal in his last three games. Sergio Aguero, back in the side with Gabriel Jesus rested, fired past Lukasz Fabianski to complete another masterclass from Guardiola's City slickers. City form While the purists are purring at City's form, you could only sympathise with Swansea boss Paul Clement who summed up what many of his peers might be feeling. "At times it was horrible to be on the sideline watching that, seeing my side trying but suffering for long periods," he said. "It was hard to watch at times because they were so dominant. One of the best sides I've ever come across." United looked flat after their chastening defeat against City and were indebted to Lukaku's powerful header and several good saves by David de Gea against a plucky Bournemouth. Manager Jose Mourinho, distracted by reports of a fracas after the City defeat in which he was reported to have had milk thrown at him, admitted his side had been low on energy. "It was difficult match. They had one more day's rest than us, they were fresher than us, and mentally fresher because a big match takes more from our players," he said. "They were difficult opponents and difficult conditions. If we had scored the second it would have been a calm night." Liverpool were left to rue a late disallowed goal for Dominic Solanke as they could find no way past West Brom, their second home draw in four days. "We can do better and we have to do better but on a night like this when you are not at your best you need a bit of luck," manager Juergen Klopp said. Shinji Okazaki scored twice for Leicester as they racked up a fourth consecutive win, while Wayne Rooney earned Everton a 1-0 win at Newcastle United whose night ended in depressing fashion with a red card for Jonjo Shelvey.

Unstoppable City break record, United edge out Bournemouth

Jurgen Klopp admitted on Tuesday that he got caught up in the heat of the moment after Liverpool conceded a late penalty to draw at home with Everton.

The Liverpool boss is known for his animated reactions but his behaviour came under extra scrutiny after a tetchy television interview minutes after Everton secured a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Sunday with a spot-kick he felt should not have been given.

Klopp`s cantankerous mood did not improve in his press conference later when his request for a show of hands from those who disagreed with him was met with the majority of the room responding.

However, the German insists he was just offering a genuine response and has no regrets about how it played out.

&quot;I would give the same interview now,&quot; he said. &quot;The information I had to give would be the same but now I am completely relaxed, but it was five minutes after the game and I was not relaxed.&quot;

&quot;It is nothing. I didn`t use any words I have to take back. I don`t like it but I am pretty sure I cannot change it because I felt like this in this moment and I am not an actor. I cannot act differently.&quot;

Klopp`s team selection -- with Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino on the bench -- came under scrutiny after Everton claimed a point, but he has been rotating his players for several weeks to keep them fresh during a busy period.

Last year Liverpool fell apart in January, winning just one FA Cup game, as injuries scuppered an unlikely title bid. With Champions League football to contend with this season, Klopp is trying to avoid a repeat scenario.

So far he has made 59 changes to his starting 11 this season. Only Manchester United in 2002 have made more in Premier League history at this stage of the campaign.

&quot;If we had the squad last year we would have done it last year,&quot; said Klopp, set to make more changes for the visit of West Brom on Wednesday.

&quot;You cannot play the same 11 players all the time until four are injured and then you hope the other four who come in -- who are quality but have no rhythm -- will perform for you. 
&quot;That is not likely.&quot;

Klopp insists he was just offering a genuine response and has no regrets about how it played out

Jurgen Klopp admitted on Tuesday that he got caught up in the heat of the moment after Liverpool conceded a late penalty to draw at home with Everton. The Liverpool boss is known for his animated reactions but his behaviour came under extra scrutiny after a tetchy television interview minutes after Everton secured a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Sunday with a spot-kick he felt should not have been given. Klopp`s cantankerous mood did not improve in his press conference later when his request for a show of hands from those who disagreed with him was met with the majority of the room responding. However, the German insists he was just offering a genuine response and has no regrets about how it played out. "I would give the same interview now," he said. "The information I had to give would be the same but now I am completely relaxed, but it was five minutes after the game and I was not relaxed." "It is nothing. I didn`t use any words I have to take back. I don`t like it but I am pretty sure I cannot change it because I felt like this in this moment and I am not an actor. I cannot act differently." Klopp`s team selection -- with Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino on the bench -- came under scrutiny after Everton claimed a point, but he has been rotating his players for several weeks to keep them fresh during a busy period. Last year Liverpool fell apart in January, winning just one FA Cup game, as injuries scuppered an unlikely title bid. With Champions League football to contend with this season, Klopp is trying to avoid a repeat scenario. So far he has made 59 changes to his starting 11 this season. Only Manchester United in 2002 have made more in Premier League history at this stage of the campaign. "If we had the squad last year we would have done it last year," said Klopp, set to make more changes for the visit of West Brom on Wednesday. "You cannot play the same 11 players all the time until four are injured and then you hope the other four who come in -- who are quality but have no rhythm -- will perform for you. "That is not likely."

Jurgen Klopp admits passions ruled after derby draw

Football legend Diego Maradona was in Kolkata for a three-day visit that began on Sunday.

Scores of fans were gathered outside the airport to get a glimpse of their favourite star footballer when he reached Kolkata two days back.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DiegoAMaradona?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiegoAMaradona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vikrantgupta73?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vikrantgupta73</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aajtak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aajtak</a> Few precious moment of tday. The Prince of football with the Prince of cricket.???? <a href="https://t.co/dVMIT3oL85">pic.twitter.com/dVMIT3oL85</a>
&mdash; SAMRAT MUKHERJEE (@prince3091) <a href="https://twitter.com/prince3091/status/940554056455544833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Maradona unveiled a 12-foot statue of himself in Kolkata and was also expected to play a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/diego-maradona-and-sourav-ganguly-take-part-in-a-charity-football-match-in-west-bengals-kolkata-7316" target="_blank">charity football match</a> with former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

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Diego Maradona unveils are rather unflattering bronze statue of himself holding a massive World Cup trophy &amp; a massive head of hair, in Kolkata, India <a href="https://twitter.com/PAImages?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PAImages</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maradona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maradona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/soccer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#soccer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/funny?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#funny</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y4KopbhSW7">pic.twitter.com/Y4KopbhSW7</a>
&mdash; Richard Holt (@Richard_Holt69) <a href="https://twitter.com/Richard_Holt69/status/940561540767518720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2017</a></blockquote>
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While many marvelled at the sight of the humungous statue put up in honour of the Argentine legend, social media -- like always -- had a different chord to strum.

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Diego Maradona is in India &amp; a statue of him was unveiled at a charity event in Kolkata. 
Good to see the chap that did the Ronaldo one is still in business <a href="https://t.co/p5IDzgfExw">pic.twitter.com/p5IDzgfExw</a>
&mdash; Peter Coates (@golazoargentino) <a href="https://twitter.com/golazoargentino/status/940350184453746688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Twitter cracked up saying that the statue looked nothing like Maradona.&nbsp;

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One of these is a statue of Diego Maradona. <a href="https://t.co/4KqgUGPjD8">pic.twitter.com/4KqgUGPjD8</a>
&mdash; Steve Darrah ?????? (@Darrah88) <a href="https://twitter.com/Darrah88/status/940349826478280705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The sculptor who did the new Diego Maradona statue mixed up his Scottish icons <a href="https://t.co/hc5lhkJqDD">pic.twitter.com/hc5lhkJqDD</a>
&mdash; McBookie (@McBookie) <a href="https://twitter.com/McBookie/status/940321606450270208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Genuinely thought this was a statue of Roy Hodgson... 
 
...it&#39;s Diego Maradona... <a href="https://t.co/V9NAVJMdop">pic.twitter.com/V9NAVJMdop</a>
&mdash; The Sack Race (@thesackrace) <a href="https://twitter.com/thesackrace/status/940507452428247040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this year, Cristiano Ronaldo&#39;s rather bizarre statue unveiled in Portugal raked in similar reactions.&nbsp;

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How about statues of the same guys, but done by the guy who did that stroke-faced Cristiano Ronaldo statue in Portugal. <a href="https://t.co/gqI5bzOuOC">pic.twitter.com/gqI5bzOuOC</a>
&mdash; Dave O&#39;Connell (@bethenikki) <a href="https://twitter.com/bethenikki/status/899621827496071169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Maradona&#39;s trip was originally scheduled to take place in October but was postponed to December.

This is the second visit by the footballer in the city. He last visited Kolkata in December 2008.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the Argentine legend on Tuesday skipped the much-hyped &#39;Diego versus Dada&#39; exhibition match, leaving cricket icon Sourav Ganguly disappointed.

&quot;It would have been great to have played with him but he could not play,&quot; Ganguly said after featuring in the seven-a-side exhibition match.

(With inputs from PTI)

&nbsp;

The Twitterati thought it didn't look like him

Football legend Diego Maradona was in Kolkata for a three-day visit that began on Sunday. Scores of fans were gathered outside the airport to get a glimpse of their favourite star footballer when he reached Kolkata two days back. @SGanguly99 @DiegoAMaradona @vikrantgupta73 @aajtak Few precious moment of tday. The Prince of football with the Prince of cricket.???? pic.twitter.com/dVMIT3oL85 — SAMRAT MUKHERJEE (@prince3091) December 12, 2017 × Maradona unveiled a 12-foot statue of himself in Kolkata and was also expected to play a charity football match with former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly. Diego Maradona unveils are rather unflattering bronze statue of himself holding a massive World Cup trophy & a massive head of hair, in Kolkata, India @PAImages #Maradona #soccer #funny pic.twitter.com/Y4KopbhSW7 — Richard Holt (@Richard_Holt69) December 12, 2017 × While many marvelled at the sight of the humungous statue put up in honour of the Argentine legend, social media -- like always -- had a different chord to strum. Diego Maradona is in India & a statue of him was unveiled at a charity event in Kolkata. Good to see the chap that did the Ronaldo one is still in business pic.twitter.com/p5IDzgfExw — Peter Coates (@golazoargentino) December 11, 2017 × Twitter cracked up saying that the statue looked nothing like Maradona. One of these is a statue of Diego Maradona. pic.twitter.com/4KqgUGPjD8 — Steve Darrah ?????? (@Darrah88) December 11, 2017 × The sculptor who did the new Diego Maradona statue mixed up his Scottish icons pic.twitter.com/hc5lhkJqDD — McBookie (@McBookie) December 11, 2017 × Genuinely thought this was a statue of Roy Hodgson... ...it's Diego Maradona... pic.twitter.com/V9NAVJMdop — The Sack Race (@thesackrace) December 12, 2017 × Earlier this year, Cristiano Ronaldo's rather bizarre statue unveiled in Portugal raked in similar reactions. How about statues of the same guys, but done by the guy who did that stroke-faced Cristiano Ronaldo statue in Portugal. pic.twitter.com/gqI5bzOuOC — Dave O'Connell (@bethenikki) August 21, 2017 × Maradona's trip was originally scheduled to take place in October but was postponed to December. This is the second visit by the footballer in the city. He last visited Kolkata in December 2008. Reportedly, the Argentine legend on Tuesday skipped the much-hyped 'Diego versus Dada' exhibition match, leaving cricket icon Sourav Ganguly disappointed. "It would have been great to have played with him but he could not play," Ganguly said after featuring in the seven-a-side exhibition match. (With inputs from PTI)

Twitter cracks up over 'bizarre' Maradona statue in Kolkata

Cristiano Ronaldo&#39;s Real Madrid will continue their bid for a first European Cup treble in 40 years against Neymar&#39;s Paris Saint-Germain after the big-spending duo were on Monday drawn together in a mouth-watering Champions League last 16 clash.

No club has won the European title three years running since Bayern Munich in the mid-1970s, underlining how big an achievement it would be if Madrid -- 12 times winners overall -- won the trophy again in the final in Kiev in May.

They know exactly what it takes to be European champions, and in Ronaldo have the most prolific goal-scorer in the competition&#39;s history.

Emilio Butragueno, a Real director, and former striker, regretted that one of the favourites would be eliminated so soon in the competition.

&quot;For the potential of the two teams, luck has worked out this way and one of the two teams will be out at the last 16 stage, which we think is a bit soon taking into account they are two of the contenders for the title,&quot; Butragueno told BeIN Sports Spain.

PSG made waves in the transfer market in the close season when they signed Brazilian star Neymar for a world-record 222 million euros ($261.5 million), followed closely by great French hope Kylian Mbappe, who will cost 180m euros when his loan deal becomes permanent next summer.

&quot;Every summer they have signed great players, they get stronger all the time and they have had a nearly impeccable group stage,&quot; acknowledged Butragueno.

&quot;With Neymar and Mbappe they have improved a lot up front, they are a very dangerous team who will demand the best of us. We need to face both games like finals and for the fans it will be a thrilling tie.

&quot;Mbappe and Neymar are very dangerous. We need to play at our best, but we can&#39;t forget this team has won the Champions League twice, we hope to have all the injured players back and the key is who has the luck over two games.&quot;

&#39;Big tie of the round&#39;&nbsp;

Butragueno added: &quot;Of course it is the big tie of the round. Chelsea-Barca is important too, but I think for the players that will be on show, it is the most attractive of all the ties.&quot;

PSG ambassador Maxwell said the Real tie threw up the chance for the Parisian club to atone for their 6-1 hammering by Barcelona that eliminated them in the last 16 last season.

&quot;It&#39;s a good draw, with two good games to play,&quot; Maxwell said. &quot;Our fans will like it after we were knocked out by Barcelona last season.

&quot;It will be nice. It&#39;s a beautiful challenge for the club. I think we&#39;re ready for that.&quot;

While Real&#39;s La Liga rivals Barcelona were drawn against Chelsea, English Premier League leaders Manchester City play Basel, who have had some fine results against English sides in recent years.

Five-time winners and current Bundesliga table toppers Bayern Munich drew Turkish giants Besiktas, while last year&#39;s beaten finalists Juventus take on Tottenham.

Bayern&#39;s director of sport Hasan Salihamidzic said the Germans would not be underestimating Besiktas, who should enjoy some raucous support from the city&#39;s Turkish community.

&quot;We know how strong they are after we followed their games against Leipzig. It will be a difficult task, but we are looking forward to the unusual atmosphere in their stadium,&quot; he said.

&quot;One always says that it is a disadvantage to play at home in the first-leg, which is right - it certainly won&#39;t be an advantage - but we are strong enough to accept that and we will give our all.&quot;

With a record five English clubs in the draw, three-time champions Manchester United face Sevilla and Liverpool, five-time winners, will be up against two-time former champions Porto.

Unfancied Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk will play Roma.

First legs will be played on February 13/14 and 20/21, with second legs on March 6/7 and 13/14.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Real Madrid will continue their bid for a first European Cup treble in 40 years against Neymar's Paris Saint-Germain after the big-spending duo were on Monday drawn together in a mouth-watering Champions League last 16 clash. No club has won the European title three years running since Bayern Munich in the mid-1970s, underlining how big an achievement it would be if Madrid -- 12 times winners overall -- won the trophy again in the final in Kiev in May. They know exactly what it takes to be European champions, and in Ronaldo have the most prolific goal-scorer in the competition's history. Emilio Butragueno, a Real director, and former striker, regretted that one of the favourites would be eliminated so soon in the competition. "For the potential of the two teams, luck has worked out this way and one of the two teams will be out at the last 16 stage, which we think is a bit soon taking into account they are two of the contenders for the title," Butragueno told BeIN Sports Spain. PSG made waves in the transfer market in the close season when they signed Brazilian star Neymar for a world-record 222 million euros ($261.5 million), followed closely by great French hope Kylian Mbappe, who will cost 180m euros when his loan deal becomes permanent next summer. "Every summer they have signed great players, they get stronger all the time and they have had a nearly impeccable group stage," acknowledged Butragueno. "With Neymar and Mbappe they have improved a lot up front, they are a very dangerous team who will demand the best of us. We need to face both games like finals and for the fans it will be a thrilling tie. "Mbappe and Neymar are very dangerous. We need to play at our best, but we can't forget this team has won the Champions League twice, we hope to have all the injured players back and the key is who has the luck over two games." 'Big tie of the round' Butragueno added: "Of course it is the big tie of the round. Chelsea-Barca is important too, but I think for the players that will be on show, it is the most attractive of all the ties." PSG ambassador Maxwell said the Real tie threw up the chance for the Parisian club to atone for their 6-1 hammering by Barcelona that eliminated them in the last 16 last season. "It's a good draw, with two good games to play," Maxwell said. "Our fans will like it after we were knocked out by Barcelona last season. "It will be nice. It's a beautiful challenge for the club. I think we're ready for that." While Real's La Liga rivals Barcelona were drawn against Chelsea, English Premier League leaders Manchester City play Basel, who have had some fine results against English sides in recent years. Five-time winners and current Bundesliga table toppers Bayern Munich drew Turkish giants Besiktas, while last year's beaten finalists Juventus take on Tottenham. Bayern's director of sport Hasan Salihamidzic said the Germans would not be underestimating Besiktas, who should enjoy some raucous support from the city's Turkish community. "We know how strong they are after we followed their games against Leipzig. It will be a difficult task, but we are looking forward to the unusual atmosphere in their stadium," he said. "One always says that it is a disadvantage to play at home in the first-leg, which is right - it certainly won't be an advantage - but we are strong enough to accept that and we will give our all." With a record five English clubs in the draw, three-time champions Manchester United face Sevilla and Liverpool, five-time winners, will be up against two-time former champions Porto. Unfancied Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk will play Roma. First legs will be played on February 13/14 and 20/21, with second legs on March 6/7 and 13/14.

Ronaldo vs Neymar as Real draw PSG in Champions League

Antonio Conte says Chelsea are battling to secure their Champions League future and warned of a &quot;bad surprise&quot; after weekend results left them 14 points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City.

After a fourth loss in 16 games against West Ham on Saturday, the Chelsea boss thinks a title challenge is now all but over and spoke of a revised target ahead of Tuesday&#39;s Premier League clash at Huddersfield.

&quot;I like to win,&quot; said Conte. &quot;When we lose I&#39;m not happy. In 16 games we lost four games. My experience tells (me) it&#39;s impossible to win the title.&quot;

&quot;Now we must be focused in the league to go game by game, to do our best. This league is not simple. We have to fight to find a place in the Champions League.&quot;

But securing a Champions League berth will not be easy, with six big Premier League clubs all chasing four spots.

Conte&#39;s focus is on the immediate future and not the Champions League last-16 tie with Barcelona.

He has continually bemoaned a lack of transfer activity last summer, when he watched rivals City and Manchester United strengthen their squads.

But the Italian is seeking an immediate response and is not relying on new recruits in January&#39;s winter transfer window to improve Chelsea&#39;s fortunes.

Midfielder Danny Drinkwater missed the West Ham loss through illness, while defender David Luiz is being monitored over his knee injury.

Conte is likely to make changes for the trip to Huddersfield. Midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko was substituted at half-time at the London Stadium and striker Alvaro Morata was replaced 10 minutes into the second half and both could be in need of a rest.

And Conte, who repeated his Chelsea side are rebuilding after the departures of the likes of John Terry and Frank Lampard in recent seasons, says it is important the summer arrivals are given time to bed in.

Chelsea are currently third in the league, 14 points behind leaders Manchester City

Antonio Conte says Chelsea are battling to secure their Champions League future and warned of a "bad surprise" after weekend results left them 14 points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City. After a fourth loss in 16 games against West Ham on Saturday, the Chelsea boss thinks a title challenge is now all but over and spoke of a revised target ahead of Tuesday's Premier League clash at Huddersfield. "I like to win," said Conte. "When we lose I'm not happy. In 16 games we lost four games. My experience tells (me) it's impossible to win the title." "Now we must be focused in the league to go game by game, to do our best. This league is not simple. We have to fight to find a place in the Champions League." But securing a Champions League berth will not be easy, with six big Premier League clubs all chasing four spots. Conte's focus is on the immediate future and not the Champions League last-16 tie with Barcelona. He has continually bemoaned a lack of transfer activity last summer, when he watched rivals City and Manchester United strengthen their squads. But the Italian is seeking an immediate response and is not relying on new recruits in January's winter transfer window to improve Chelsea's fortunes. Midfielder Danny Drinkwater missed the West Ham loss through illness, while defender David Luiz is being monitored over his knee injury. Conte is likely to make changes for the trip to Huddersfield. Midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko was substituted at half-time at the London Stadium and striker Alvaro Morata was replaced 10 minutes into the second half and both could be in need of a rest. And Conte, who repeated his Chelsea side are rebuilding after the departures of the likes of John Terry and Frank Lampard in recent seasons, says it is important the summer arrivals are given time to bed in.

Chelsea battling for Champions League future: Conte

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola took a big step towards his first title in the English football with a 2-1 derby victory over arch-rival Manchester United on Sunday which sent his team 11 points clear at the top of the P remier League.

Guardiola, who won three Spanish league titles and two Champions League crowns during his time with Barcelona and then won three Bundesliga titles with Bayern Munich, had faced criticism about whether his trademark possession style would work in the premier league.&nbsp;

City finished 15 points behind Chelsea in third place last season but it will take a major collapse for them to not win this season&#39;s championship.

The Spaniard also responded to comments from his United counterpart Jose Mourinho who had blamed the referee&#39;s failure to give his team a penalty for the loss.

&quot;We tried to keep playing and we came here like we were in Stamford Bridge and all the games since I came here to try to win, to make our job, and I&#39;m so happy that people say in England you cannot play in that way in England, in England you can play in that way as well,&quot; Guardiola said

&quot;Through the passes, we created the chances, it&#39;s not easy to create chances at United because they are so tough defensively but we created enough, the people say an amazing save from Ederson, that&#39;s true, it was amazing. But I think (David) De Gea had more saves, much much more than Ederson. Those statistics were better, the way we played was better so that&#39;s why it&#39;s well-done guys, well done,&quot; he added.

Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho, Manchester United manager, said that he expected City to score two great goals. Not disgraceful goals.

&quot;I think when you see Manchester City play you expect Manchester City to score great goals, not to score two disgraceful goals (they) are the last goals that you would expect to concede against a quality team like Manchester City. Two very bad goals in one corner and one free kick with rebounds and incredibly lucky or unlucky depending on the perspective, so yes they had much more of the ball, yes they had that apparent control of the game with the ball, but the biggest save of the game is the double save by their goalkeeper and the big decision of the game is the unlucky (penalty) decision of (referee) Michael (Oliver), &quot; said Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho.&nbsp;

City finished 15 points behind Chelsea in third place last season but it will take a major collapse for them to not win this season's championship.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola took a big step towards his first title in the English football with a 2-1 derby victory over arch-rival Manchester United on Sunday which sent his team 11 points clear at the top of the P remier League. Guardiola, who won three Spanish league titles and two Champions League crowns during his time with Barcelona and then won three Bundesliga titles with Bayern Munich, had faced criticism about whether his trademark possession style would work in the premier league. City finished 15 points behind Chelsea in third place last season but it will take a major collapse for them to not win this season's championship. The Spaniard also responded to comments from his United counterpart Jose Mourinho who had blamed the referee's failure to give his team a penalty for the loss. "We tried to keep playing and we came here like we were in Stamford Bridge and all the games since I came here to try to win, to make our job, and I'm so happy that people say in England you cannot play in that way in England, in England you can play in that way as well," Guardiola said "Through the passes, we created the chances, it's not easy to create chances at United because they are so tough defensively but we created enough, the people say an amazing save from Ederson, that's true, it was amazing. But I think (David) De Gea had more saves, much much more than Ederson. Those statistics were better, the way we played was better so that's why it's well-done guys, well done," he added. Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho, Manchester United manager, said that he expected City to score two great goals. Not disgraceful goals. "I think when you see Manchester City play you expect Manchester City to score great goals, not to score two disgraceful goals (they) are the last goals that you would expect to concede against a quality team like Manchester City. Two very bad goals in one corner and one free kick with rebounds and incredibly lucky or unlucky depending on the perspective, so yes they had much more of the ball, yes they had that apparent control of the game with the ball, but the biggest save of the game is the double save by their goalkeeper and the big decision of the game is the unlucky (penalty) decision of (referee) Michael (Oliver), " said Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho.

Pep Guardiola takes big step towards first title in EPL with 2-1 derby victory

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola&#39;s commitment to possession football is well established but ahead of Sunday&#39;s derby clash with Manchester United, the former Barcelona coach revealed he had once doubted his philosophy - but only for 48 hours.

The Spaniard&#39;s zeal for passing and possession with intelligent use of space is almost ideological but he said that early in his career he had questioned if it was the right way.

Guardiola began his coaching career in 2007 with Barcelona&#39;s B team, who played in the lower divisions of the Spanish league and it was there that his commitment to &#39;total football&#39; was tested.

&quot;Yes I had doubts a little bit in the beginning,&quot; he told reporters.

&quot;I remember the first three games, I won, I draw and I lost, we played in the fourth division on artificial pitches, and they were so small. On the Monday I thought I have to change it because we cannot play (on those pitches),&quot; he said.

&quot;Arrived Tuesday and I said we have to change because the pitch is so small. But arrived Wednesday and I said &lsquo;no, I am not going to change&rsquo; because the alternative to playing the way I believe didn&rsquo;t convince me,&quot; said Guardiola.

The decision to stick by his principles paid off for the Spaniard.

&quot;It was so good because at the end of the season, we were champions and promoted and at that moment I said - if we were able to win quite good and play quite good football, if you can do that on small pitch, artificial pitch, then I can do that at a higher level with better pitches, better players,&quot; he said with a grin.

Guardiola&#39;s almost dogmatic belief in the &quot;right way&quot; of playing was questioned last season as City struggled to adjust to the former Barca and Bayern Munich coach&#39;s demands.

Early days

But with City heading into the derby unbeaten in the Premier League and with an eight-point lead over United, Guardiola was comfortable looking back on his early coaching days.

&quot;That was an important moment...I was 37 years old, never trained big players and I had to prove myself. That showed me. But at the end it depends on results.

&quot;I said many times &ndash; the manager has to do what they believe, that is the most important thing. If someone comes to me for advice or comments, always I say, do what you believe. That is the only thing that works,&quot; he said.

The Catalan said sticking to his guns was not just a wise move in terms of tactics but is an honest and authentic approach.

&quot;People who have success in many other aspects in life it is because they believe 100 percent what they do. When it doesn&rsquo;t work &ndash; of course you have to change, but always with something from inside,&quot; he said, while conceding there are multiple tactical approaches that can work in football.

&quot;Teams (have) success when the manager is convinced to do (things) 100 percent. In all the history, the 1940&rsquo;s, 50&rsquo;s, 60&rsquo;s 70&rsquo;s, (teams won) titles in many, many different ways, there is not one (pattern). That is why football is magnificent because you face teams with long balls, more defensive, more attacking, different ways and that is why it is top.&quot;

The doubt did not last very long -- only 48 hours

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's commitment to possession football is well established but ahead of Sunday's derby clash with Manchester United, the former Barcelona coach revealed he had once doubted his philosophy - but only for 48 hours. The Spaniard's zeal for passing and possession with intelligent use of space is almost ideological but he said that early in his career he had questioned if it was the right way. Guardiola began his coaching career in 2007 with Barcelona's B team, who played in the lower divisions of the Spanish league and it was there that his commitment to 'total football' was tested. "Yes I had doubts a little bit in the beginning," he told reporters. "I remember the first three games, I won, I draw and I lost, we played in the fourth division on artificial pitches, and they were so small. On the Monday I thought I have to change it because we cannot play (on those pitches)," he said. "Arrived Tuesday and I said we have to change because the pitch is so small. But arrived Wednesday and I said ‘no, I am not going to change’ because the alternative to playing the way I believe didn’t convince me," said Guardiola. The decision to stick by his principles paid off for the Spaniard. "It was so good because at the end of the season, we were champions and promoted and at that moment I said - if we were able to win quite good and play quite good football, if you can do that on small pitch, artificial pitch, then I can do that at a higher level with better pitches, better players," he said with a grin. Guardiola's almost dogmatic belief in the "right way" of playing was questioned last season as City struggled to adjust to the former Barca and Bayern Munich coach's demands. Early days But with City heading into the derby unbeaten in the Premier League and with an eight-point lead over United, Guardiola was comfortable looking back on his early coaching days. "That was an important moment...I was 37 years old, never trained big players and I had to prove myself. That showed me. But at the end it depends on results. "I said many times – the manager has to do what they believe, that is the most important thing. If someone comes to me for advice or comments, always I say, do what you believe. That is the only thing that works," he said. The Catalan said sticking to his guns was not just a wise move in terms of tactics but is an honest and authentic approach. "People who have success in many other aspects in life it is because they believe 100 percent what they do. When it doesn’t work – of course you have to change, but always with something from inside," he said, while conceding there are multiple tactical approaches that can work in football. "Teams (have) success when the manager is convinced to do (things) 100 percent. In all the history, the 1940’s, 50’s, 60’s 70’s, (teams won) titles in many, many different ways, there is not one (pattern). That is why football is magnificent because you face teams with long balls, more defensive, more attacking, different ways and that is why it is top."

Before Manchester derby, Guardiola says he once doubted his philosophy

Valencia kept the pressure on Liga leaders Barcelona by beating Celta Vigo 2-1 on Saturday with a late penalty from Dani Parejo and Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice for the first time in a league game this season as Real Madrid thrashed Sevilla 5-0.

Valencia were looking for a first win in three games to revive their unlikely title bid and took the lead through a header from top scorer Simone Zaza in the 28th minute, the Italian&#39;s 10th league goal of the season.

Iago Aspas stabbed in from close range in the 46th minute to equalise for Celta, who had held Barca to a 2-2 draw last weekend, but Parejo restored Valencia&#39;s lead nine minutes from time with a double stroke of fortune as his disputed penalty went through the hands of goalkeeper Ruben Blanco.

Valencia are second in the standings, moving two points behind Barcelona who have 36 and visit Villarreal on Sunday. Real go third on 31 but Atletico Madrid can go back above Zinedine Zidane&#39;s side when they visit Real Betis on Sunday.

Celta&#39;s players raged against referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero for awarding Valencia the penalty when Jose Gaya went to ground following a challenge by Pablo Hernandez.

&quot;We didn&#39;t drop points today, we had them taken off us by that person (the referee). He robbed us. I hope he doesn&#39;t officiate any more of our games,&quot; said Celta captain Hugo Mallo.

Goalscorer Aspas added: &quot;I think he must have something against Celta, in every game of ours which he has taken charge of, something has gone against us.&quot;

Valencia coach Marcelino, who was back in the dugout following a two-game touchline ban, said: &quot;It was a really exciting game. The result is fair because we scored two legal goals but Celta played very well and if they&#39;d drawn we wouldn&#39;t have been able to complain.&quot;

In Madrid, Real overcame a selection crisis in defence to crush Sevilla with a lethal attacking display, scoring all their goals before halftime.

Real were without Raphael Varane, captain Sergio Ramos, Dani Carvajal and holding midfielder Casemiro but got off to an ideal start when Nacho Fernandez cashed in on a woeful attempted clearance following a corner to score in the third minute.

Ronaldo, who had paraded his joint-record five Ballon d&#39;Or trophies on the Santiago Bernabeu pitch before kick-off, side-footed home a through ball from Marco Asensio to score the second before thumping in the third from the penalty spot.

Toni Kroos scored the most impressive goal of the game by charging forward from his own half and playing a wall pass with Lucas Vazquez before stroking the ball beyond Rico, while 18-year-old Achraf Hakimi notched his first goal for Real to complete another lethal breakaway.

Real coach Zidane was delighted with his side&#39;s performance, especially after last week&#39;s goalless draw at Athletic Bilbao.

&quot;It has been a great day for us, above all because we won and scored a lot and we hadn&#39;t done that much so far this season. It was a very complete game for us and that means a lot to me,&quot; the Frenchman told a news conference.

&quot;We&#39;re growing in every sense and playing better. When you play better you create more chances, we created a lot today and scored five times, for the first time this season (in the league).&quot;

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice for the first time in a league game this season as Real Madrid thrashed Sevilla 5-0.

Valencia kept the pressure on Liga leaders Barcelona by beating Celta Vigo 2-1 on Saturday with a late penalty from Dani Parejo and Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice for the first time in a league game this season as Real Madrid thrashed Sevilla 5-0. Valencia were looking for a first win in three games to revive their unlikely title bid and took the lead through a header from top scorer Simone Zaza in the 28th minute, the Italian's 10th league goal of the season. Iago Aspas stabbed in from close range in the 46th minute to equalise for Celta, who had held Barca to a 2-2 draw last weekend, but Parejo restored Valencia's lead nine minutes from time with a double stroke of fortune as his disputed penalty went through the hands of goalkeeper Ruben Blanco. Valencia are second in the standings, moving two points behind Barcelona who have 36 and visit Villarreal on Sunday. Real go third on 31 but Atletico Madrid can go back above Zinedine Zidane's side when they visit Real Betis on Sunday. Celta's players raged against referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero for awarding Valencia the penalty when Jose Gaya went to ground following a challenge by Pablo Hernandez. "We didn't drop points today, we had them taken off us by that person (the referee). He robbed us. I hope he doesn't officiate any more of our games," said Celta captain Hugo Mallo. Goalscorer Aspas added: "I think he must have something against Celta, in every game of ours which he has taken charge of, something has gone against us." Valencia coach Marcelino, who was back in the dugout following a two-game touchline ban, said: "It was a really exciting game. The result is fair because we scored two legal goals but Celta played very well and if they'd drawn we wouldn't have been able to complain." In Madrid, Real overcame a selection crisis in defence to crush Sevilla with a lethal attacking display, scoring all their goals before halftime. Real were without Raphael Varane, captain Sergio Ramos, Dani Carvajal and holding midfielder Casemiro but got off to an ideal start when Nacho Fernandez cashed in on a woeful attempted clearance following a corner to score in the third minute. Ronaldo, who had paraded his joint-record five Ballon d'Or trophies on the Santiago Bernabeu pitch before kick-off, side-footed home a through ball from Marco Asensio to score the second before thumping in the third from the penalty spot. Toni Kroos scored the most impressive goal of the game by charging forward from his own half and playing a wall pass with Lucas Vazquez before stroking the ball beyond Rico, while 18-year-old Achraf Hakimi notched his first goal for Real to complete another lethal breakaway. Real coach Zidane was delighted with his side's performance, especially after last week's goalless draw at Athletic Bilbao. "It has been a great day for us, above all because we won and scored a lot and we hadn't done that much so far this season. It was a very complete game for us and that means a lot to me," the Frenchman told a news conference. "We're growing in every sense and playing better. When you play better you create more chances, we created a lot today and scored five times, for the first time this season (in the league)."

Football: Ronaldo at the double for Real, Valencia edge out Celta

Paris St Germain shrugged off two consecutive defeats to beat Lille 3-1 in Ligue 1 on Saturday and open a 12-point lead at the top of the standings.

PSG lost in their previous league match against Strasbourg last Saturday, and then came undone against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in midweek.

However, they led through Angel Di Maria&#39;s 28th-minute opener at the Parc des Princes and Javier Pastore doubled their advantage four minutes after the break. Anwar El Ghazi pulled one back for Lille before Kylian Mbappe struck in stoppage time.

Without the suspended Neymar, Mbappe was the catalyst for much of PSG&#39;s better work and it was his cross that allowed Di Maria to break the deadlock with a header.

It was PSG&#39;s only effort on goal in the first half but they added to their lead shortly after halftime when a counter-attack ended with Di Maria teeing up Pastore to score.

Lille were still a threat and El Ghazi capitalised on some mistakes in the home side&#39;s defence to score with three minutes of normal time remaining.

Mbappe sealed the victory for PSG with a lightning-fast run up the field and composed finish into an empty net after Lille goalkeeper Mike Maignan had gone up for a corner.

The result left Lille still waiting for a first victory over the capital club since 1996.

Monaco can cut the gap to nine points later on Saturday if they beat Troyes, while Olympique Lyon and Olympique Marseille can also get to within nine of the leaders on Sunday.

Without the suspended Neymar, Mbappe was the catalyst for much of PSG's better work and it was his cross that allowed Di Maria to break the deadlock with a header.

Paris St Germain shrugged off two consecutive defeats to beat Lille 3-1 in Ligue 1 on Saturday and open a 12-point lead at the top of the standings. PSG lost in their previous league match against Strasbourg last Saturday, and then came undone against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in midweek. However, they led through Angel Di Maria's 28th-minute opener at the Parc des Princes and Javier Pastore doubled their advantage four minutes after the break. Anwar El Ghazi pulled one back for Lille before Kylian Mbappe struck in stoppage time. Without the suspended Neymar, Mbappe was the catalyst for much of PSG's better work and it was his cross that allowed Di Maria to break the deadlock with a header. It was PSG's only effort on goal in the first half but they added to their lead shortly after halftime when a counter-attack ended with Di Maria teeing up Pastore to score. Lille were still a threat and El Ghazi capitalised on some mistakes in the home side's defence to score with three minutes of normal time remaining. Mbappe sealed the victory for PSG with a lightning-fast run up the field and composed finish into an empty net after Lille goalkeeper Mike Maignan had gone up for a corner. The result left Lille still waiting for a first victory over the capital club since 1996. Monaco can cut the gap to nine points later on Saturday if they beat Troyes, while Olympique Lyon and Olympique Marseille can also get to within nine of the leaders on Sunday.

Football: PSG back on track with victory over Lille

Second-half substitute Olivier Giroud rescued Arsenal with a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw at St Mary&#39;s on Sunday after Southampton had looked like holding on for all three points.

The France international, who replaced compatriot Alexandre Lacazette in the 72nd minute of a lively game, scored two minutes from fulltime with a glancing header off an Alexis Sanchez cross.

Southampton had made Arsenal sweat until then with Charlie Austin grabbing a fourth goal from his last three league starts with a third-minute shot past Petr Cech after being fed through by Dusan Tadic.

It was the 17th time Giroud has scored as a substitute for Arsenal, equalling Norwegian Ole Gunnar Solskjaer&#39;s record with Manchester United for most goals scored off the bench for a single club.

If the draw remained a lost opportunity for the Gunners, the goal at least staved off a second successive league defeat after a stinging 3-1 loss to Manchester United at the Emirates last weekend.

&quot;Last week had an influence on today&#39;s game,&quot; Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, whose side played in the Europa League on Thursday, told Sky Sports television.

&quot;They wanted to start strong but it took us time to get into the game again,&quot; added the manager, who criticised the amount of time-wasting in the match.

&quot;I think he (Giroud) has come back into a very good shape, he&#39;s shown that today again. He&#39;s mentally extremely strong as well. It&#39;s a remarkable achievement what he has done again today.&quot;

Arsenal moved up to fifth place, behind Liverpool on goal difference, but 14 adrift of leaders Manchester City who were playing Manchester United later in the day.

Southampton moved up to 10th, ahead of Huddersfield Town and Everton, who were playing the Merseyside derby at Liverpool.

&quot;We started really well, got the goal. Should have got the second really,&quot; said Austin, who had a low shot from the right well saved by Cech minutes after scoring.

&quot;Against Arsenal, you give them one chance and the big man&#39;s come on and scored. It&#39;s just one of those things...we take away a point from here but we should have taken all three.&quot;

Austin also hit the post with another effort in the eighth minute with the Arsenal defence in disarray but the linesman flagging for offside.

Arsenal worked their way back, picking up the tempo as Southampton were forced on the defensive but without giving home goalkeeper Fraser Forster much to worry about.

Southampton were still dangerous against the run of play, however, with Spanish defensive midfielder Oriol Romeu firing in a long-range shot that smacked the crossbar in the 62nd.

Arsenal took off defender Per Mertesacker shortly afterwards, bringing on Danny Welbeck to add firepower, but Southampton could still feel unlucky not to increase their advantage.

Ryan Bertrand had a golden opportunity when he shook off Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny, but lofted the ball high over Cech, while Austin saw another opportunity trickle past the post.

Giroud came on as a second-half substitute, the equaliser came late

Second-half substitute Olivier Giroud rescued Arsenal with a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw at St Mary's on Sunday after Southampton had looked like holding on for all three points. The France international, who replaced compatriot Alexandre Lacazette in the 72nd minute of a lively game, scored two minutes from fulltime with a glancing header off an Alexis Sanchez cross. Southampton had made Arsenal sweat until then with Charlie Austin grabbing a fourth goal from his last three league starts with a third-minute shot past Petr Cech after being fed through by Dusan Tadic. It was the 17th time Giroud has scored as a substitute for Arsenal, equalling Norwegian Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's record with Manchester United for most goals scored off the bench for a single club. If the draw remained a lost opportunity for the Gunners, the goal at least staved off a second successive league defeat after a stinging 3-1 loss to Manchester United at the Emirates last weekend. "Last week had an influence on today's game," Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, whose side played in the Europa League on Thursday, told Sky Sports television. "They wanted to start strong but it took us time to get into the game again," added the manager, who criticised the amount of time-wasting in the match. "I think he (Giroud) has come back into a very good shape, he's shown that today again. He's mentally extremely strong as well. It's a remarkable achievement what he has done again today." Arsenal moved up to fifth place, behind Liverpool on goal difference, but 14 adrift of leaders Manchester City who were playing Manchester United later in the day. Southampton moved up to 10th, ahead of Huddersfield Town and Everton, who were playing the Merseyside derby at Liverpool. "We started really well, got the goal. Should have got the second really," said Austin, who had a low shot from the right well saved by Cech minutes after scoring. "Against Arsenal, you give them one chance and the big man's come on and scored. It's just one of those things...we take away a point from here but we should have taken all three." Austin also hit the post with another effort in the eighth minute with the Arsenal defence in disarray but the linesman flagging for offside. Arsenal worked their way back, picking up the tempo as Southampton were forced on the defensive but without giving home goalkeeper Fraser Forster much to worry about. Southampton were still dangerous against the run of play, however, with Spanish defensive midfielder Oriol Romeu firing in a long-range shot that smacked the crossbar in the 62nd. Arsenal took off defender Per Mertesacker shortly afterwards, bringing on Danny Welbeck to add firepower, but Southampton could still feel unlucky not to increase their advantage. Ryan Bertrand had a golden opportunity when he shook off Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny, but lofted the ball high over Cech, while Austin saw another opportunity trickle past the post.

Giroud to the rescue as Arsenal draw 1-1 at Southampton

Everton captain Wayne Rooney scored for the first time in a Merseyside derby on Sunday with a late penalty to take an unlikely point in a 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield.

With the snow swirling, Rooney sent the 77th-minute spot kick straight down the middle after Dominic Calvert-Lewin went down following a push in the back by Croatian defender Dejan Lovren.

Mohamed Salah had earlier fired Liverpool ahead with a 42nd-minute stunner that sent the Egyptian clear of Tottenham Hotspur&#39;s England striker Harry Kane as the league&#39;s top marksman with 13 goals this season.

Liverpool stayed fourth with 30 points, 13 adrift of leaders Manchester City who were playing later at second-placed Manchester United. Chelsea are third on 32 with Sam Allardyce&#39;s Everton moving up to 10th.

With the snow swirling, Rooney sent the 77th-minute spot kick straight down the middle

Everton captain Wayne Rooney scored for the first time in a Merseyside derby on Sunday with a late penalty to take an unlikely point in a 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield. With the snow swirling, Rooney sent the 77th-minute spot kick straight down the middle after Dominic Calvert-Lewin went down following a push in the back by Croatian defender Dejan Lovren. Mohamed Salah had earlier fired Liverpool ahead with a 42nd-minute stunner that sent the Egyptian clear of Tottenham Hotspur's England striker Harry Kane as the league's top marksman with 13 goals this season. Liverpool stayed fourth with 30 points, 13 adrift of leaders Manchester City who were playing later at second-placed Manchester United. Chelsea are third on 32 with Sam Allardyce's Everton moving up to 10th.

Rooney scores from the spot, Merseyside derby ends 1-1

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp sprang a surprise as he left Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino on the bench for Sunday&#39;s Merseyside derby against Everton.

Coutinho and Firmino, who have scored nine Premier League goals between them this season, were shock omissions from the starting line-up at Anfield.

In total, Klopp made six changes from Liverpool&#39;s midweek Champions League thrashing of Spartak Moscow.&nbsp;

There are rare starts for forward Dominic Solanke, midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and defender Andrew Robertson, while Jordan Henderson also returned to the team.

&quot;Dom&#39;s good enough. There are a lot of English players on the pitch today so they know about the importance of the derby, for sure,&quot; Klopp said.

&quot;Dom is a footballer from head to toe, he is all around a really proper professional.

&quot;It&#39;s a part of the season where you have to make the changes when you can make the changes.

&quot;I think all the Champions League sides, or Europa League sides, made a lot of changes in midweek.

&quot;Their games, maybe they were not as important as ours was. We had to go through a very intense game.&quot;

Coutinho and Firmino, who have scored nine Premier League goals between them this season, were shock omissions

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp sprang a surprise as he left Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino on the bench for Sunday's Merseyside derby against Everton. Coutinho and Firmino, who have scored nine Premier League goals between them this season, were shock omissions from the starting line-up at Anfield. In total, Klopp made six changes from Liverpool's midweek Champions League thrashing of Spartak Moscow. There are rare starts for forward Dominic Solanke, midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and defender Andrew Robertson, while Jordan Henderson also returned to the team. "Dom's good enough. There are a lot of English players on the pitch today so they know about the importance of the derby, for sure," Klopp said. "Dom is a footballer from head to toe, he is all around a really proper professional. "It's a part of the season where you have to make the changes when you can make the changes. "I think all the Champions League sides, or Europa League sides, made a lot of changes in midweek. "Their games, maybe they were not as important as ours was. We had to go through a very intense game."

Merseyside derby: Klopp leaves Coutinho, Firmino on the bench

Fabian Delph and Ashley Young are not two names that, at the start of this season, would have been high on many lists of key players for the Manchester derby but with the wide areas likely to be a major battleground in Sunday&#39;s Premier League clash their roles will be vital.

Delph, a midfielder throughout his career, was forced into left-wingback duty when first choice Benjamin Mendy suffered a knee ligament injury in September and the 28-year-old has handled the new position with aplomb.

Young, who has been converted to fullback duty after making his name as a winger, has made the United left-back slot his own with impressive performances this season earning him a recall to the England squad at the age of 32 after a four-year absence.

With Antonio Valencia on the right flank, United have been able to develop a counter-attacking style down the flanks, allied to their attacking wide players such as Anthony Martial.

City&#39;s formation is similar, with Kyle Walker advancing with pace down the right, in alliance with Raheem Sterling, while Delph provides wide support to Leroy Sane on the opposite side.

Pep Guardiola&#39;s side often push their fullbacks so far forward that is questionable whether they can be considered defenders in any real sense.

The Spanish coach is aware that against United&#39;s counter-attack his team will need to be alert to the spaces in the wide areas that Jose Mourinho&#39;s side will look to exploit.

&quot;You have to defend these areas, definitely. With fullbacks, attacking midfielders or holding midfielders or wingers, you have to close that space,&quot; said Guardiola.

&quot;The teams from Jose Mourinho -- Chelsea, Real Madrid and here, they are the masters of that. When you lose the ball they are going to immediately counter-attack with Lukaku or make movements behind our full backs with Martial, (Marcus) Rashford or (Jesse) Lingard.

&quot;You know if you are not well organised they punish you in one action and win the game,&quot; he said.

&quot;They have the potential to run 30 metres and create problems. That space beside our centre-backs and behind our fullbacks is the space we have to be careful about, definitely,&quot; he added.

Guardiola, though, is not ready to sacrifice the attacking potency of Walker, a close-season signing from Tottenham.

&quot;It depends on the players and if you have the energy of Kyle Walker, you have to attack with him,&quot; said Guardiola.

League leaders Manchester City take on second-placed Manchester United tonight at 10 pm

Fabian Delph and Ashley Young are not two names that, at the start of this season, would have been high on many lists of key players for the Manchester derby but with the wide areas likely to be a major battleground in Sunday's Premier League clash their roles will be vital. Delph, a midfielder throughout his career, was forced into left-wingback duty when first choice Benjamin Mendy suffered a knee ligament injury in September and the 28-year-old has handled the new position with aplomb. Young, who has been converted to fullback duty after making his name as a winger, has made the United left-back slot his own with impressive performances this season earning him a recall to the England squad at the age of 32 after a four-year absence. With Antonio Valencia on the right flank, United have been able to develop a counter-attacking style down the flanks, allied to their attacking wide players such as Anthony Martial. City's formation is similar, with Kyle Walker advancing with pace down the right, in alliance with Raheem Sterling, while Delph provides wide support to Leroy Sane on the opposite side. Pep Guardiola's side often push their fullbacks so far forward that is questionable whether they can be considered defenders in any real sense. The Spanish coach is aware that against United's counter-attack his team will need to be alert to the spaces in the wide areas that Jose Mourinho's side will look to exploit. "You have to defend these areas, definitely. With fullbacks, attacking midfielders or holding midfielders or wingers, you have to close that space," said Guardiola. "The teams from Jose Mourinho -- Chelsea, Real Madrid and here, they are the masters of that. When you lose the ball they are going to immediately counter-attack with Lukaku or make movements behind our full backs with Martial, (Marcus) Rashford or (Jesse) Lingard. "You know if you are not well organised they punish you in one action and win the game," he said. "They have the potential to run 30 metres and create problems. That space beside our centre-backs and behind our fullbacks is the space we have to be careful about, definitely," he added. Guardiola, though, is not ready to sacrifice the attacking potency of Walker, a close-season signing from Tottenham. "It depends on the players and if you have the energy of Kyle Walker, you have to attack with him," said Guardiola.

Young and Delph unlikely key men for Manchester derby

Chelsea must beat West Ham United in the Premier League on Saturday to capitalise on points dropped by rivals in Sunday&#39;s Manchester derby, defender Cesar Azpilicueta said.

Champions Chelsea, who are 11 points behind leaders Manchester City, could go level with second-placed Manchester United with a win at West Ham&#39;s London Stadium in the lunchtime kickoff.

&quot;The two (Manchester) teams can&#39;t both take three points, so every time you get an opportunity to get close, you have to take it,&quot; Azpilicueta told Sky Sports.

&quot;We have to be intelligent to look at ourselves and then we&#39;ll see how the opponents will react.&quot;

After a sloppy start to the season, Antonio Conte&#39;s Chelsea have collected six wins in last seven league games, with their only dropped points coming against Liverpool in a 1-1 draw at Anfield last month.

The festive fixture list looks a good chance for Chelsea to collect a healthy points haul as they are set to face opponents outside the top six in their next six league matches.

West Ham are second from bottom and have not won in their last eight league games.

&quot;We have to go game by game in this busy period in December - every three days you are fighting for a big three points. We have to look at ourselves,&quot; Azpilicueta added.

&quot;We will then see where we are in the final weeks of the season, where we could fight for it.&quot;

Chelsea must beat West Ham United in the Premier League on Saturday to capitalise on points dropped by rivals in Sunday's Manchester derby, defender Cesar Azpilicueta said. Champions Chelsea, who are 11 points behind leaders Manchester City, could go level with second-placed Manchester United with a win at West Ham's London Stadium in the lunchtime kickoff. "The two (Manchester) teams can't both take three points, so every time you get an opportunity to get close, you have to take it," Azpilicueta told Sky Sports. "We have to be intelligent to look at ourselves and then we'll see how the opponents will react." After a sloppy start to the season, Antonio Conte's Chelsea have collected six wins in last seven league games, with their only dropped points coming against Liverpool in a 1-1 draw at Anfield last month. The festive fixture list looks a good chance for Chelsea to collect a healthy points haul as they are set to face opponents outside the top six in their next six league matches. West Ham are second from bottom and have not won in their last eight league games. "We have to go game by game in this busy period in December - every three days you are fighting for a big three points. We have to look at ourselves," Azpilicueta added. "We will then see where we are in the final weeks of the season, where we could fight for it."

EPL: Chelsea ready to exploit dropped points in Manchester derby, says Azpilicueta

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said his side were no longer in the Premier League title race after they lost 1-0 to West Ham United on Saturday, leaving the champions 11 points adrift of runaway leaders Manchester City who play on Sunday.

Marko Arnautovic scored his first goal since he joined West Ham in July after swapping passes with Manuel Lanzini on the edge of the Chelsea penalty area and curling a low shot beyond Thibaut Courtois in the sixth minute of the London derby.

Conte brought on the attack-minded Pedro, Victor Moses and Willian as second-half substitutes but Chelsea failed to break down a West Ham defence that looks much sturdier under new manager David Moyes.

&quot;To lose four games in 16 games, it means you are not in the title race,&quot; Conte said. &quot;My experience of this is if you want to stay in the race for the title, in the first part of the season you can lose once or twice.&quot;

Particularly galling for Conte was the fact that three of the four defeats have come against clubs which would normally be considered relatively easy opposition for Chelsea -- Burnley on the opening day of the season, Crystal Palace and now West Ham.

Chelsea also lost at home to Manchester City, who visit Manchester United on Sunday.

The champions were left to rue some poor finishing against West Ham in the closing stages as Alvaro Morata blazed wide when he finally found some space and Eden Hazard wasted a chance moments later.

Chelsea struggled for much of the match to find a way through a West Ham defence that did not concede a goal for the first time since September.

West Ham manager Moyes praised his side for a &quot;completely disciplined, organised performance&quot; which had revolved around giving Chelsea little room on the ball and catching them on the break through Arnautovic and Michail Antonio.

&quot;The game plan we set up worked, everything we went about we knew how to engage, and we were very close at Manchester City as well,&quot; he said, referring to last Sunday&#39;s 2-1 defeat to the leaders.

Despite the improvement since Moyes replaced Slaven Bilic as coach in November, West Ham remains in the relegation zone.

Chelsea&#39;s Conte said his players looked tired after a mid-week draw in the Champions League with Atletico Madrid and he again hinted at his frustration that his squad of players were not strong enough to challenge for domestic and European honours this season.

The Italian reportedly disagreed with the club&#39;s top officials in the close season about signings for this campaign.

&quot;I think it is better to talk to people in the club and then give my opinion,&quot; he said when asked if he wanted to sign more players in the January transfer window.

Conte added: &quot;The last decision was with the club. I can give my opinion but the decision is of the club.&quot;

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said his side were no longer in the Premier League title race after they lost 1-0 to West Ham United on Saturday, leaving the champions 11 points adrift of runaway leaders Manchester City who play on Sunday. Marko Arnautovic scored his first goal since he joined West Ham in July after swapping passes with Manuel Lanzini on the edge of the Chelsea penalty area and curling a low shot beyond Thibaut Courtois in the sixth minute of the London derby. Conte brought on the attack-minded Pedro, Victor Moses and Willian as second-half substitutes but Chelsea failed to break down a West Ham defence that looks much sturdier under new manager David Moyes. "To lose four games in 16 games, it means you are not in the title race," Conte said. "My experience of this is if you want to stay in the race for the title, in the first part of the season you can lose once or twice." Particularly galling for Conte was the fact that three of the four defeats have come against clubs which would normally be considered relatively easy opposition for Chelsea -- Burnley on the opening day of the season, Crystal Palace and now West Ham. Chelsea also lost at home to Manchester City, who visit Manchester United on Sunday. The champions were left to rue some poor finishing against West Ham in the closing stages as Alvaro Morata blazed wide when he finally found some space and Eden Hazard wasted a chance moments later. Chelsea struggled for much of the match to find a way through a West Ham defence that did not concede a goal for the first time since September. West Ham manager Moyes praised his side for a "completely disciplined, organised performance" which had revolved around giving Chelsea little room on the ball and catching them on the break through Arnautovic and Michail Antonio. "The game plan we set up worked, everything we went about we knew how to engage, and we were very close at Manchester City as well," he said, referring to last Sunday's 2-1 defeat to the leaders. Despite the improvement since Moyes replaced Slaven Bilic as coach in November, West Ham remains in the relegation zone. Chelsea's Conte said his players looked tired after a mid-week draw in the Champions League with Atletico Madrid and he again hinted at his frustration that his squad of players were not strong enough to challenge for domestic and European honours this season. The Italian reportedly disagreed with the club's top officials in the close season about signings for this campaign. "I think it is better to talk to people in the club and then give my opinion," he said when asked if he wanted to sign more players in the January transfer window. Conte added: "The last decision was with the club. I can give my opinion but the decision is of the club."

EPL: Conte says Chelsea no longer in title race after West Ham defeat

Born and raised in Japan, three North Korean soccer players are expecting to face boos from the home crowd in a match that comes less than two weeks after the latest North Korean test missile splashed into the Sea of Japan.

An Byong Jun, Kim Song Gi and Lee Yong Jick, who play their club soccer for J League division 2 sides, will represent North Korea when they take on Japan in Tokyo on Saturday in the final round of the East Asian Football Championship.

The sporting contest is being held with the world still on edge after the North heightened alarm in South Korea, Japan and the United States by test firing an intercontinental ballistic missile on Nov. 29 that appeared to demonstrate increasing range.

North Korea has test-fired missiles over the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido twice earlier this year and has threatened to sink Japan into the sea with a nuclear bomb.

Unsurprisingly, Kim, a 29-year-old central defender, who hails from Hyogo prefecture in western Japan and plays his club soccer for Machida Zelvia in Tokyo, expects a hostile reception from Japanese supporters.

&quot;Bring on the booing,&quot; said Kim. &quot;Being booed actually gets me fired up. I was brought up that way and it doesn&#39;t really bother me.&quot;

He is eager to avenge a one-nil loss when he first played against Japan for North Korea six years ago.

Kim, An and Lee all took up soccer when they were children attending Pyongyang-affiliated schools in Japan and saw playing as a North Korean international as the path to the highest level.

&quot;Soccer was all I thought about when I was a kid and it was my dream to play for North Korea,&quot; Kim said. &quot;My biggest goal now is to go to the World Cup.&quot;

Japanese nationality is inherited through parents, not place of birth, meaning the three players of North Korean descent are considered foreigners and ineligible to play for Japan&#39;s national team.

The players&#39; status as permanent residents in Japan is a throwback to the complex and conflicted relationship between the countries.

Many Koreans were forced to move to Japan during its occupation of the Korean peninsula before and during World War II&nbsp;and suffered discrimination.

They and their descendants are now eligible to become naturalised Japanese citizens, but many are loath to do so because that would involve giving up their Korean nationality and suffering a perceived loss of cultural identity.

There were about 339,000 people with special permanent resident status - mostly those with Korean or Taiwanese ancestry - living in Japan last year, government data shows.

&quot;I&#39;ve never thought of taking Japanese citizenship,&quot; said Kim. &quot;My soul is 100 percent North Korean.&quot;

Lee, a 26-year-old Osaka native playing his first match against Japan, said he wasn&#39;t sure how the fans would react, noting that the team had expected boos when they played in South Korea but received applause instead.

&quot;It&#39;s complicated,&quot; said the Kamatamare Sanuki defender, who switches to midfield for North Korea.

&quot;I hope we&#39;re treated the same as other teams that play against Japan. To be honest I hope we don&#39;t get booed.&quot;

Regarding political tensions, he said that things might seem bad looking only at the news in Japan but that he and his teammates had also seen a good side to North Korea on their trips to Pyongyang, on school trips and for training camp.

An, who will also be playing his first match against Japan, said he was looking forward to playing in his hometown Tokyo and expected a good turnout from ethnic Korean fans.

He said he had a lot of J League friends on the Japanese squad with whom he exchanges text messages and he was looking forward to a good match regardless of international tensions.

&quot;Soccer&#39;s great because teams can play fair and square and those kind of politics don&#39;t matter,&quot; said the 27-year-old Roasso Kumamoto forward.

&quot;All I want to do is go out and represent my country as a soccer player.&quot;

Japan and North Korea last met in 2015, at the East Asia Football Championship in China, where North Korea prevailed 2-1.

This year&#39;s men&#39;s tournament, which also features China and South Korea, runs Dec. 9-16. The women&#39;s tournament, comprising the same countries, is being held Dec. 8-15.

The three players will take on Japan in the final round of East Asian Football Championship in Tokyo on Saturday

Born and raised in Japan, three North Korean soccer players are expecting to face boos from the home crowd in a match that comes less than two weeks after the latest North Korean test missile splashed into the Sea of Japan. An Byong Jun, Kim Song Gi and Lee Yong Jick, who play their club soccer for J League division 2 sides, will represent North Korea when they take on Japan in Tokyo on Saturday in the final round of the East Asian Football Championship. The sporting contest is being held with the world still on edge after the North heightened alarm in South Korea, Japan and the United States by test firing an intercontinental ballistic missile on Nov. 29 that appeared to demonstrate increasing range. North Korea has test-fired missiles over the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido twice earlier this year and has threatened to sink Japan into the sea with a nuclear bomb. Unsurprisingly, Kim, a 29-year-old central defender, who hails from Hyogo prefecture in western Japan and plays his club soccer for Machida Zelvia in Tokyo, expects a hostile reception from Japanese supporters. "Bring on the booing," said Kim. "Being booed actually gets me fired up. I was brought up that way and it doesn't really bother me." He is eager to avenge a one-nil loss when he first played against Japan for North Korea six years ago. Kim, An and Lee all took up soccer when they were children attending Pyongyang-affiliated schools in Japan and saw playing as a North Korean international as the path to the highest level. "Soccer was all I thought about when I was a kid and it was my dream to play for North Korea," Kim said. "My biggest goal now is to go to the World Cup." Japanese nationality is inherited through parents, not place of birth, meaning the three players of North Korean descent are considered foreigners and ineligible to play for Japan's national team. The players' status as permanent residents in Japan is a throwback to the complex and conflicted relationship between the countries. Many Koreans were forced to move to Japan during its occupation of the Korean peninsula before and during World War II and suffered discrimination. They and their descendants are now eligible to become naturalised Japanese citizens, but many are loath to do so because that would involve giving up their Korean nationality and suffering a perceived loss of cultural identity. There were about 339,000 people with special permanent resident status - mostly those with Korean or Taiwanese ancestry - living in Japan last year, government data shows. "I've never thought of taking Japanese citizenship," said Kim. "My soul is 100 percent North Korean." Lee, a 26-year-old Osaka native playing his first match against Japan, said he wasn't sure how the fans would react, noting that the team had expected boos when they played in South Korea but received applause instead. "It's complicated," said the Kamatamare Sanuki defender, who switches to midfield for North Korea. "I hope we're treated the same as other teams that play against Japan. To be honest I hope we don't get booed." Regarding political tensions, he said that things might seem bad looking only at the news in Japan but that he and his teammates had also seen a good side to North Korea on their trips to Pyongyang, on school trips and for training camp. An, who will also be playing his first match against Japan, said he was looking forward to playing in his hometown Tokyo and expected a good turnout from ethnic Korean fans. He said he had a lot of J League friends on the Japanese squad with whom he exchanges text messages and he was looking forward to a good match regardless of international tensions. "Soccer's great because teams can play fair and square and those kind of politics don't matter," said the 27-year-old Roasso Kumamoto forward. "All I want to do is go out and represent my country as a soccer player." Japan and North Korea last met in 2015, at the East Asia Football Championship in China, where North Korea prevailed 2-1. This year's men's tournament, which also features China and South Korea, runs Dec. 9-16. The women's tournament, comprising the same countries, is being held Dec. 8-15.

Born in Japan, playing for North Korea under shadow of missile crisis

Portugal`s Cristiano Ronaldo was awarded the Ballon d`Or for world player of the year on Thursday for a joint-record fifth time, going level with eternal rival and Barcelona forward Lionel Messi as the player to have won the prize the most times.&nbsp;

The Real Madrid forward won the award, handed out by magazine France Football, for the second consecutive year having led his side to the La Liga title with 25 goals and a successive Champions League crown, netting 12 goals including two in the 4-1 win over Juventus in the final.

Ronaldo collected the trophy in a glitzy ceremony at the Eiffel Tower in the French capital, presented by former France player David Ginola.

&quot;I feel very happy, it`s a fantastic moment in my career,&quot; Ronaldo said upon collecting the award, standing with his mother Maria Dolores and his oldest son Cristiano Jr.

&quot;I`ve waited a long time for this. This has been a stupendous year for me, we won the Champions League and La Liga and on a personal level, I was top scorer in the Champions League.

&quot;Trophies help me win prizes like this and I have to thank my teammates at Madrid and Portugal. They`ve been very important to me.&quot;

Messi came second while Paris St Germain forward Neymar Jr, the most expensive player in the world, came third; veteran Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon finished fourth and Real midfielder Luka Modric came fifth.

Chelsea and France midfielder N`Golo Kante was the highest ranked Premier League player, coming eighth, while Tottenham Hotspur`s Harry Kane, ranked 10th, was the only English player to make it into the top 10.

Ronaldo, who this year also helped the national side qualify for the World Cup in Russia next year, won his first Ballon d`Or in 2008 while with Manchester United and collected it again in 2013, 2014 and 2016.

The 32-year-old was last month named the Best FIFA Men`s Player in the global soccer body`s own awards ceremony.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez joined Ronaldo on stage and paid tribute to the Portuguese, who he said was the best player of all time alongside late Real great Alfredo di Stefano.

&quot;This fifth Ballon d`Or is a great honour and a great achievement for the club and Real Madrid fans around the world. Cristiano is the best player in the world, he represents the values of Real Madrid. Cristiano is the best player in history along with Di Stefano, he is his heir,&quot; Perez said.

The Ballon d`Or was first awarded in 1956 and was partnered with FIFA from 2010 to 2015, until becoming its own entity once again. 
&nbsp;

Ronaldo collected the trophy in a glitzy ceremony at the Eiffel Tower in the French capital, presented by former France player David Ginola.

Portugal`s Cristiano Ronaldo was awarded the Ballon d`Or for world player of the year on Thursday for a joint-record fifth time, going level with eternal rival and Barcelona forward Lionel Messi as the player to have won the prize the most times. The Real Madrid forward won the award, handed out by magazine France Football, for the second consecutive year having led his side to the La Liga title with 25 goals and a successive Champions League crown, netting 12 goals including two in the 4-1 win over Juventus in the final. Ronaldo collected the trophy in a glitzy ceremony at the Eiffel Tower in the French capital, presented by former France player David Ginola. "I feel very happy, it`s a fantastic moment in my career," Ronaldo said upon collecting the award, standing with his mother Maria Dolores and his oldest son Cristiano Jr. "I`ve waited a long time for this. This has been a stupendous year for me, we won the Champions League and La Liga and on a personal level, I was top scorer in the Champions League. "Trophies help me win prizes like this and I have to thank my teammates at Madrid and Portugal. They`ve been very important to me." Messi came second while Paris St Germain forward Neymar Jr, the most expensive player in the world, came third; veteran Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon finished fourth and Real midfielder Luka Modric came fifth. Chelsea and France midfielder N`Golo Kante was the highest ranked Premier League player, coming eighth, while Tottenham Hotspur`s Harry Kane, ranked 10th, was the only English player to make it into the top 10. Ronaldo, who this year also helped the national side qualify for the World Cup in Russia next year, won his first Ballon d`Or in 2008 while with Manchester United and collected it again in 2013, 2014 and 2016. The 32-year-old was last month named the Best FIFA Men`s Player in the global soccer body`s own awards ceremony. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez joined Ronaldo on stage and paid tribute to the Portuguese, who he said was the best player of all time alongside late Real great Alfredo di Stefano. "This fifth Ballon d`Or is a great honour and a great achievement for the club and Real Madrid fans around the world. Cristiano is the best player in the world, he represents the values of Real Madrid. Cristiano is the best player in history along with Di Stefano, he is his heir," Perez said. The Ballon d`Or was first awarded in 1956 and was partnered with FIFA from 2010 to 2015, until becoming its own entity once again.

Ronaldo pips Messi to win Ballon d'Or for joint-record fifth time

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