Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard said the club could discuss the vaccine status of signing targets when they look to bolster their squad during the January transfer window, as rising COVID-19 cases at clubs raised fears of a rash of postponed games. 
 
The Premier League said on Monday it found a record 42 cases of COVID-19 among players and staff at clubs over the past week, shortly before Manchester United`s game against Brentford was called off due an outbreak at the Old Trafford club. 
 
England`s top-flight is in the midst of its busiest time of the season, with teams involved in the League Cup playing at least twice a week until the first week of January, and further cancellations could leave it facing an unwelcome fixture pile-up. 
 
United`s game against Brentford was the second game to be postponed this season due to a COVID-19 outbreak after Tottenham Hotspur`s game at Brighton &amp; Hove Albion over the weekend was called off. 
 
From Wednesday, fans will also need to show proof of double vaccination under England's "plan B" of measures to slow the spread of the Omicron variant that are being voted on by legislators on Tuesday. 
 
Clubs have been enjoying full stadiums again this season after playing for months in front of empty or restricted capacity stands from the start of the pandemic in March 2020.

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VACCINE STATUS 
 
Gerrard, whose side also have had players and staff test positive this week, told British media on Monday their thorough recruitment process meant vaccine status could be considered when they speak to potential recruits. 
 
"We look at everything. So I`m sure it will come up," Gerrard said. 
 
"But we`ll obviously make decisions as and when we decide a certain person is the one who could come in and make us better," he said. "But I don`t think it`s right for me to comment on if I would or wouldn`t in that situation. But it would certainly come into conversations in the background." 
 
Villa, who are 13th, travel to bottom side Norwich City in the league later on Tuesday. 
 
BOOSTER SHOTS 
 
Watford manager Claudio Ranieri had urged players to get vaccinated against COVID-19 while Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said booster shots were necessary with cases steadily on the rise again. 
 
People aged 30 and over residing in England are eligible for a booster shot three months after the second dose as concerns grow over the spread of the Omicron variant. 
 
England manager Gareth Southgate had said in October that some players were not vaccinated because their opinions may have been swayed by conspiracy theories on social media. 
 
Later that month, the league said 81% of its players have had at least one COVID-19 vaccination dose while 68% of them were fully vaccinated.

Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard said the club could discuss the vaccine status of signing targets when they look to bolster their squad during the January transfer window, as rising COVID-19 cases at clubs raised fears of a rash of postponed games.

Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard said the club could discuss the vaccine status of signing targets when they look to bolster their squad during the January transfer window, as rising COVID-19 cases at clubs raised fears of a rash of postponed games. The Premier League said on Monday it found a record 42 cases of COVID-19 among players and staff at clubs over the past week, shortly before Manchester United`s game against Brentford was called off due an outbreak at the Old Trafford club. England`s top-flight is in the midst of its busiest time of the season, with teams involved in the League Cup playing at least twice a week until the first week of January, and further cancellations could leave it facing an unwelcome fixture pile-up. United`s game against Brentford was the second game to be postponed this season due to a COVID-19 outbreak after Tottenham Hotspur`s game at Brighton & Hove Albion over the weekend was called off. From Wednesday, fans will also need to show proof of double vaccination under England's "plan B" of measures to slow the spread of the Omicron variant that are being voted on by legislators on Tuesday. Clubs have been enjoying full stadiums again this season after playing for months in front of empty or restricted capacity stands from the start of the pandemic in March 2020. ALSO READ | Man United's league game at Brentford postponed due to COVID-19 VACCINE STATUS Gerrard, whose side also have had players and staff test positive this week, told British media on Monday their thorough recruitment process meant vaccine status could be considered when they speak to potential recruits. "We look at everything. So I`m sure it will come up," Gerrard said. "But we`ll obviously make decisions as and when we decide a certain person is the one who could come in and make us better," he said. "But I don`t think it`s right for me to comment on if I would or wouldn`t in that situation. But it would certainly come into conversations in the background." Villa, who are 13th, travel to bottom side Norwich City in the league later on Tuesday. BOOSTER SHOTS Watford manager Claudio Ranieri had urged players to get vaccinated against COVID-19 while Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said booster shots were necessary with cases steadily on the rise again. People aged 30 and over residing in England are eligible for a booster shot three months after the second dose as concerns grow over the spread of the Omicron variant. England manager Gareth Southgate had said in October that some players were not vaccinated because their opinions may have been swayed by conspiracy theories on social media. Later that month, the league said 81% of its players have had at least one COVID-19 vaccination dose while 68% of them were fully vaccinated.

Aston Villa could consider vaccine status of transfer targets, says manager Steven Gerrard

Liverpool&nbsp;ensured there was no happy return to Anfield for Steven Gerrard as Mohamed Salah's second-half penalty earned a 1-0 win over Aston Villa.

Gerrard said he would gladly sacrifice some of his legendary status among the&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;support for a result on his first trip to Anfield as part of the visiting team.

However, Villa barely laid a glove on the Jurgen Klopp's men, who should have been far more convincing winners as they moved back to within a point of Premier League leaders Manchester City.

Gerrard was welcomed with gentle applause as he emerged from the tunnel, but there was no great fanfare for the man who scored 186 goals in 710 games as a&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;player.

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Even a brief chant of his name from the Kop was drowned out by cries of "Liverpool" as the crowd focused their attention on maintaining pace with City at the top of the table.

The Reds should have been well in front by half-time after dominating a frustrating 45 minutes.

Salah has now scored 21 goals in 22 games this season, but showed remarkable restraint to resist a shot at goal from Andy Robertson's cut-back to allow Trent Alexander-Arnold to blast an effort that was headed for the top corner until it deflected off Matt Targett and behind for a corner.

Robertson was the major threat for Klopp's men as he exploited the space he was afforded down the left.

The Scotland captain's deflected header nearly wrong-footed Emiliano Martinez before he had two strong appeals for penalties waved away for challenges by Marvelous Nakamba, who had already been booked.

Klopp grew increasingly agitated at the officiating of referee Stuart Attwell as&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;failed to make their dominance show on the scoreboard.&nbsp;

Villa had won three of Gerrard's first four games in charge, but could not keep the ball for long enough to amount any sort of attacking threat themselves.

A slip by Alisson Becker created the visitors' best chance of the first half, but Ashley Young failed to turn the ball goalwards beyond the imposing figure of Joel Matip.

Martinez got down sharply to his left to deny Salah just before the break with the first of a string of fine saves by the Argentine number one.

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Virgil van Dijk was next to be denied by the former Arsenal 'keeper as&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;camped Villa inside their own half for the first 20 minutes of the second half.

Salah bent another effort narrowly over moments later, but he finally made the difference for the only goal of the game on 67 minutes.

Tyrone Mings was roped into a clumsy challenge on Salah and at the third time of asking,&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;got their spot-kick.

Martinez has earned a reputation as a penalty specialist, but Salah's strike was too precise for the Villa stopper despite guessing the right way.

Going behind suddenly sparked Villa into life as Gerrard introduced Danny Ings and Emiliano Buendia to offer more of an attacking threat.

And they too had a big appeal for a penalty turned down late on when Alisson's attempted clearance rebounded off Matip towards his own goal and the Brazilian goalkeeper escaped unpunished from a collision with Ings.

Liverpool ensured there was no happy return to Anfield for Steven Gerrard as Mohamed Salah's second-half penalty earned a 1-0 win over Aston Villa. Gerrard said he would gladly sacrifice some of his legendary status among the Liverpool support for a result on his first trip to Anfield as part of the visiting team.

Liverpool ensured there was no happy return to Anfield for Steven Gerrard as Mohamed Salah's second-half penalty earned a 1-0 win over Aston Villa. Gerrard said he would gladly sacrifice some of his legendary status among the Liverpool support for a result on his first trip to Anfield as part of the visiting team. However, Villa barely laid a glove on the Jurgen Klopp's men, who should have been far more convincing winners as they moved back to within a point of Premier League leaders Manchester City. Gerrard was welcomed with gentle applause as he emerged from the tunnel, but there was no great fanfare for the man who scored 186 goals in 710 games as a Liverpool player. ALSO READ: Premier League: Raheem Sterling scores 100th Premier League goal as Manchester City beat Wolves Even a brief chant of his name from the Kop was drowned out by cries of "Liverpool" as the crowd focused their attention on maintaining pace with City at the top of the table. The Reds should have been well in front by half-time after dominating a frustrating 45 minutes. Salah has now scored 21 goals in 22 games this season, but showed remarkable restraint to resist a shot at goal from Andy Robertson's cut-back to allow Trent Alexander-Arnold to blast an effort that was headed for the top corner until it deflected off Matt Targett and behind for a corner. Robertson was the major threat for Klopp's men as he exploited the space he was afforded down the left. The Scotland captain's deflected header nearly wrong-footed Emiliano Martinez before he had two strong appeals for penalties waved away for challenges by Marvelous Nakamba, who had already been booked. Klopp grew increasingly agitated at the officiating of referee Stuart Attwell as Liverpool failed to make their dominance show on the scoreboard. Villa had won three of Gerrard's first four games in charge, but could not keep the ball for long enough to amount any sort of attacking threat themselves. A slip by Alisson Becker created the visitors' best chance of the first half, but Ashley Young failed to turn the ball goalwards beyond the imposing figure of Joel Matip. Martinez got down sharply to his left to deny Salah just before the break with the first of a string of fine saves by the Argentine number one. ALSO READ: Anthony Martial wants to leave Manchester United in January transfer window, says agent Virgil van Dijk was next to be denied by the former Arsenal 'keeper as Liverpool camped Villa inside their own half for the first 20 minutes of the second half. Salah bent another effort narrowly over moments later, but he finally made the difference for the only goal of the game on 67 minutes. Tyrone Mings was roped into a clumsy challenge on Salah and at the third time of asking, Liverpool got their spot-kick. Martinez has earned a reputation as a penalty specialist, but Salah's strike was too precise for the Villa stopper despite guessing the right way. Going behind suddenly sparked Villa into life as Gerrard introduced Danny Ings and Emiliano Buendia to offer more of an attacking threat. And they too had a big appeal for a penalty turned down late on when Alisson's attempted clearance rebounded off Matip towards his own goal and the Brazilian goalkeeper escaped unpunished from a collision with Ings.

Premier League: Mohamed Salah's penalty helps Liverpool beat Aston Villa 1-0 to remain 2nd

Defender Ezri Konsa scored twice as Aston Villa came back from a goal down to beat Leicester City 2-1, rising above them to 10th spot in the Premier League table on goal difference on Sunday after a pulsating encounter.

Harvey Barnes squeezed the ball through Konsa's legs to open the scoring in the 14th minute, but Konsa got the last touch on Emiliano Buendia's goal-bound header to put his side level again three minutes later.

Villa thought they had taken the lead in first-half stoppage time when Jacob Ramsey fired home in a tussle with Kasper

Schmeichel, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review when the keeper was found to have been in control of the ball.

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Undeterred, Konsa got the lead nine minutes into the second half as he headed home John McGinn`s corner from a tight angle at the back post.

The goal was the 10th that Leicester have conceded from a set piece this season, excluding penalties.

McGinn's pinpoint set pieces and incisive passing created plenty of opportunities in the second half for Villa, with Ollie Watkins denied by Schmeichel in the 67th minute and Jacob Ramsey spurning another chance four minutes later.

Jamie Vardy came off the bench to give Leicester`s attack a shot in the arm but it was Harvey Barnes who came closest to getting an equaliser for the visitors, forcing a brilliant save from Emiliano Martinez in the 75th minute.

Schmeichel's goalkeeping kept Leicester in the game and he also made a late foray up the field for a corner in second-half stoppage time, but Villa managed to hang on to give new boss Steven Gerrard his third win in four league games.

Villa coach Gerrard revealed that his efforts to fire up his side at halftime paid dividends.

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"I thought Leicester started really well. We were too passive. When we made passes there were loads of sloppy turnovers. We gave the players some home truths at half-time. The reaction was exactly what we wanted," he told Sky Sports.

"To take nine points from 12 is a big return from the players. They deserve a load of credit, but there`s still work to do. Some of them still need to improve," he added.

Next up for Gerrard is a return to Anfield, but it will not be a sentimental journey for the 41-year-old.

"I just want to go there and win. We go there with confidence and belief, we just want to make it as difficult as we can," he said.

Defender Ezri Konsa scored twice as Aston Villa came back from a goal down to beat Leicester City 2-1, rising above them to 10th spot in the Premier League table on goal difference on Sunday after a pulsating encounter.

Defender Ezri Konsa scored twice as Aston Villa came back from a goal down to beat Leicester City 2-1, rising above them to 10th spot in the Premier League table on goal difference on Sunday after a pulsating encounter. Harvey Barnes squeezed the ball through Konsa's legs to open the scoring in the 14th minute, but Konsa got the last touch on Emiliano Buendia's goal-bound header to put his side level again three minutes later. Villa thought they had taken the lead in first-half stoppage time when Jacob Ramsey fired home in a tussle with Kasper Schmeichel, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review when the keeper was found to have been in control of the ball. ALSO READ: Premier League: Spurs climb to fifth with comfortable 3-0 win over Norwich City Undeterred, Konsa got the lead nine minutes into the second half as he headed home John McGinn`s corner from a tight angle at the back post. The goal was the 10th that Leicester have conceded from a set piece this season, excluding penalties. McGinn's pinpoint set pieces and incisive passing created plenty of opportunities in the second half for Villa, with Ollie Watkins denied by Schmeichel in the 67th minute and Jacob Ramsey spurning another chance four minutes later. Jamie Vardy came off the bench to give Leicester`s attack a shot in the arm but it was Harvey Barnes who came closest to getting an equaliser for the visitors, forcing a brilliant save from Emiliano Martinez in the 75th minute. Schmeichel's goalkeeping kept Leicester in the game and he also made a late foray up the field for a corner in second-half stoppage time, but Villa managed to hang on to give new boss Steven Gerrard his third win in four league games. Villa coach Gerrard revealed that his efforts to fire up his side at halftime paid dividends. ALSO READ: Premier League: Fred gives Ralf Rangnick reign at Manchester United lift off 1-0 vs Crystal Palace "I thought Leicester started really well. We were too passive. When we made passes there were loads of sloppy turnovers. We gave the players some home truths at half-time. The reaction was exactly what we wanted," he told Sky Sports. "To take nine points from 12 is a big return from the players. They deserve a load of credit, but there`s still work to do. Some of them still need to improve," he added. Next up for Gerrard is a return to Anfield, but it will not be a sentimental journey for the 41-year-old. "I just want to go there and win. We go there with confidence and belief, we just want to make it as difficult as we can," he said.

Premier League: Ezri Konsa strikes twice as Aston Villa come back to beat Leicester 2-1

Steven Gerrard promised Aston Villa supporters that the Premier League club has his full commitment despite his strong attachment to former side Liverpool, the new coach said in his first news conference on Thursday.

Gerrard, who led Rangers to the Scottish title last season, was appointed Villa manager last week, succeeding Dean Smith who was sacked with the club in 16th place in the league, two points above the relegation zone after 11 games.

The former midfielder spent the majority of his playing career, 17 years, at Liverpool and helped them win several trophies including the Champions League and then began his coaching career at the club`s youth academy.

However, Gerrard insisted his focus was on Villa and leading them up the league table with his first match coming on Saturday at home to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.

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"Everyone knows around the world what Liverpool means to me but the focus and my commitment is very much on Villa," the 41-year-old said.

"I said last week in a one-to-one (club interview) that I`m all in and I can promise the supporters that`s the case." 
Villa are one of the few English sides to have won the European Cup, in 1982.

Although supporters would dream of a return to continental competition, Gerrard insisted the immediate priority was winning games, especially with the club on a five-match losing streak in the league.

"Success is always about winning matches. In the long term the club would like to be back at the European level. I don`t think it`s the right time now to put any specific date on that," he said.

"But for me more importantly it`s about focusing on the short term, which is Brighton at the weekend, we need to start winning matches again and moving up the table, so that`s the short term goal."

As a player, Gerrard was not one Villa fans would have welcomed the sight of as he scored more goals against their team than any other - 13 in 27 games across all competitions.

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But he insisted he now wanted to bring cheers not jeers to Villa Park.

"I can`t change the past, the goals are there and a lot of wins. I apologise to Villa fans for that but now I`m on their side," Gerrard said.

"It`s different now. It`s my job to make them smile and be happy, it`s vital that there is unity." 
&nbsp;

Steven Gerrard promised Aston Villa supporters that the Premier League club has his full commitment despite his strong attachment to former side Liverpool, the new coach said in his first news conference on Thursday.

Steven Gerrard promised Aston Villa supporters that the Premier League club has his full commitment despite his strong attachment to former side Liverpool, the new coach said in his first news conference on Thursday. Gerrard, who led Rangers to the Scottish title last season, was appointed Villa manager last week, succeeding Dean Smith who was sacked with the club in 16th place in the league, two points above the relegation zone after 11 games. The former midfielder spent the majority of his playing career, 17 years, at Liverpool and helped them win several trophies including the Champions League and then began his coaching career at the club`s youth academy. However, Gerrard insisted his focus was on Villa and leading them up the league table with his first match coming on Saturday at home to Brighton & Hove Albion. ALSO READ: 'I am a WOMAN': Iranian goalkeeper Zohreh Koudaei reacts to claims that she is a MAN, vows to sue Jordanian FA "Everyone knows around the world what Liverpool means to me but the focus and my commitment is very much on Villa," the 41-year-old said. "I said last week in a one-to-one (club interview) that I`m all in and I can promise the supporters that`s the case." Villa are one of the few English sides to have won the European Cup, in 1982. Although supporters would dream of a return to continental competition, Gerrard insisted the immediate priority was winning games, especially with the club on a five-match losing streak in the league. "Success is always about winning matches. In the long term the club would like to be back at the European level. I don`t think it`s the right time now to put any specific date on that," he said. "But for me more importantly it`s about focusing on the short term, which is Brighton at the weekend, we need to start winning matches again and moving up the table, so that`s the short term goal." As a player, Gerrard was not one Villa fans would have welcomed the sight of as he scored more goals against their team than any other - 13 in 27 games across all competitions. ALSO READ | Brazil vs Argentina match officials suspended for 'serious errors' But he insisted he now wanted to bring cheers not jeers to Villa Park. "I can`t change the past, the goals are there and a lot of wins. I apologise to Villa fans for that but now I`m on their side," Gerrard said. "It`s different now. It`s my job to make them smile and be happy, it`s vital that there is unity."

'I'm all in': New boss Steven Gerrard promises Aston Villa supporters

Steven Gerrard has been appointed as the head coach of English Premier League club Aston Villa on Thursday (November 11) after his departure from the Scottish side Rangers.&nbsp;

After a spell as an Academy Coach at Liverpool, Gerrard joined Rangers in 2018. Under his guidance, the Glasgow Rangers won the Scottish Premiership title last season and finished the campaign undefeated in the league.&nbsp;

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Gerrard enjoyed a glittering playing career with Liverpool and England. He&nbsp;is considered one of the greatest players in Premier League history, scoring 186 goals in 710 appearances for Liverpool.

After joining the Premier League club, Gerrard said that Aston Villa is a club with a "rich history and tradition" in English football and he is "immensely proud" to become its new head coach.

Gerrard further said, "In my conversations with Nassef, Wes and the rest of the Board, it was apparent how ambitious their plans are for the club and I am looking forward to helping them achieve their aims."

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"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everybody associated with Glasgow Rangers for giving me the opportunity to manage such an iconic football club. Helping them secure a record-breaking 55th league title will always hold a special place in my heart. I would like to wish the players, staff and supporters the very best for the future."

Steven Gerrard has been appointed as the head coach of English Premier League club Aston Villa on Thursday (November 11) after his departure from the Scottish side Rangers.

Steven Gerrard has been appointed as the head coach of English Premier League club Aston Villa on Thursday (November 11) after his departure from the Scottish side Rangers. After a spell as an Academy Coach at Liverpool, Gerrard joined Rangers in 2018. Under his guidance, the Glasgow Rangers won the Scottish Premiership title last season and finished the campaign undefeated in the league. ALSO READ | Immediate focus is avoiding relegation, says Newcastle United's boss Eddie Howe Gerrard enjoyed a glittering playing career with Liverpool and England. He is considered one of the greatest players in Premier League history, scoring 186 goals in 710 appearances for Liverpool. After joining the Premier League club, Gerrard said that Aston Villa is a club with a "rich history and tradition" in English football and he is "immensely proud" to become its new head coach. Gerrard further said, "In my conversations with Nassef, Wes and the rest of the Board, it was apparent how ambitious their plans are for the club and I am looking forward to helping them achieve their aims." IN PICS | Moving on from Messi to top-four finish: Issues that Xavi will have to address at Barcelona "I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everybody associated with Glasgow Rangers for giving me the opportunity to manage such an iconic football club. Helping them secure a record-breaking 55th league title will always hold a special place in my heart. I would like to wish the players, staff and supporters the very best for the future."

Steven Gerrard 'immensely proud' to become new Aston Villa manager

Dean&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;has been sacked as manager of Aston Villa after five straight Premier League defeats, the club announced on Sunday.

Smith&nbsp;guided Villa back to the English top flight in 2019 but has paid the price for their disappointing form this season, with Friday's 1-0 defeat at Southampton proving the last straw for club bosses.

The former European champions were 15th in the Premier League table ahead of Sunday's matches after picking up just 10 points from their opening 11 games.

Smith's departure comes the day after bottom club Norwich sacked their manager Daniel Farke.

Villa chief executive Christian Purslow said in a statement on the club's website: "After a good start to last season, this year we have not seen the continuous improvement in results, performances and league position which we have all been looking for.&nbsp;

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"For this reason we have decided to make a change now to allow time for a new head coach to make an impact."

Former Brentford manager&nbsp;Smith, 50, took charge of Villa in October 2018 and led them to promotion via the play-offs in his first season.&nbsp;

The following campaign he kept them up and they reached the League Cup final, which they lost to Manchester City.

They finished 11th last season but lost star player Jack Grealish to City in the transfer window.

The club's statement added: "The board would like to sincerely thank&nbsp;Dean&nbsp;for his many excellent achievements, on and off the pitch, during this time.&nbsp;

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"Everyone knows how much Aston Villa means to&nbsp;Dean&nbsp;and his family. He has represented the club with distinction and dignity."

Grealish tweeted: "No1 will ever compare, the real goat (greatest of all time)."

Smith&nbsp;is the fifth managerial casualty in the Premier League this season.

Dean Smith has been sacked as manager of Aston Villa after five straight Premier League defeats, the club announced on Sunday. Smith guided Villa back to the English top flight in 2019 but has paid the price for their disappointing form this season, with Friday's 1-0 defeat at Southampton proving the last straw for club bosses.

Dean Smith has been sacked as manager of Aston Villa after five straight Premier League defeats, the club announced on Sunday. Smith guided Villa back to the English top flight in 2019 but has paid the price for their disappointing form this season, with Friday's 1-0 defeat at Southampton proving the last straw for club bosses. The former European champions were 15th in the Premier League table ahead of Sunday's matches after picking up just 10 points from their opening 11 games. Smith's departure comes the day after bottom club Norwich sacked their manager Daniel Farke. Villa chief executive Christian Purslow said in a statement on the club's website: "After a good start to last season, this year we have not seen the continuous improvement in results, performances and league position which we have all been looking for. ALSO READ: Barcelona draw 3-3 at Celta Vigo after stunning second-half collapse "For this reason we have decided to make a change now to allow time for a new head coach to make an impact." Former Brentford manager Smith, 50, took charge of Villa in October 2018 and led them to promotion via the play-offs in his first season. The following campaign he kept them up and they reached the League Cup final, which they lost to Manchester City. They finished 11th last season but lost star player Jack Grealish to City in the transfer window. The club's statement added: "The board would like to sincerely thank Dean for his many excellent achievements, on and off the pitch, during this time. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester City outclass crisis-hit Manchester United "Everyone knows how much Aston Villa means to Dean and his family. He has represented the club with distinction and dignity." Grealish tweeted: "No1 will ever compare, the real goat (greatest of all time)." Smith is the fifth managerial casualty in the Premier League this season.

Aston Villa sack manager Dean Smith after defeat vs Southampton

Bruno Fernandes blazed a stoppage-time penalty over the crossbar as Aston Villa earned a shock 1-0 victory at a below-par Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday. 
 
Kortney Hause`s 88th-minute header put Villa on course for their first league win over United since 2009, but the defender`s handball gifted United an opportunity to steal a point, only for Fernandes to miss the target. 
 
Since Cristiano Ronaldo re-signed for United, there has been much debate over who will take penalties and free kicks this season – last term`s spot-kick taker Fernandes or his fellow Portuguese. 
 
It was Fernandes who took the first direct free kick on Saturday, firing into the wall, with Ronaldo getting the next one, and Fernandes, following Hause`s handball, never looked back as he placed the ball on the spot in the 92nd minute. 
 
But last season`s top scorer missed only his second spot-kick for the club to the dismay of an expectant crowd. 
 
"First of all the way they (Villa players) get round the penalty spot, get round Bruno and that, that`s not to my liking," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said. 
 
"Bruno is usually very good in those positions and unfortunately he missed this one." 
 
In truth, United got what they deserved. Villa had two great opportunities to break the deadlock in the first half with full back Matt Targett blazing over from two metres out, before Ollie Watkins was denied by a fine save from United goalkeeper David de Gea. 
 
The home side, encouraged by a frustrated Old Trafford crowd, stepped it up late in the match, but Hause climbed highest to stun the hosts before Fernandes` miss and United tasted league defeat for the first time this season. 
 
That second successive home loss in all competitions means United dropped to fourth in the standings on goal difference, with the top four sides all on 13 points. Villa climbed to seventh. 
 
Solskjaer called for a fast start from his side in his programme notes having seen his team often struggle to get going, and that is exactly what he got as Fernandes wasted a great chance inside two minutes. 
 
However, the hosts tailed off and really should have gone behind at halftime as Targett and Watkins missed great opportunities. 
 
The home fans were getting restless as the Premier League’s top goalscorers struggled to create clear-cut chances, with two headers as close as United came to breaking the deadlock before the break. 
 
The game opened up as the second half wore on with Mason Greenwood going close, before De Gea denied Watkins with another fine save. 
 
But the Spanish stopper could do nothing as Hause powered his header home, sparking wild scenes of celebration in the away end. 
 
The headlines, however, went to Fernandes, as his miss gave Villa a famous and thoroughly deserved success. 
 
"It (a Villa win at Old Trafford) has been a long time coming," Villa coach Dean Smith said. "Our performance levels have been good the last couple of times we`ve been here. 
 
"What that does is it gives an awful lot of belief to the players now." 
 
&nbsp;

Bruno Fernandes blazed a stoppage-time penalty over the crossbar as Aston Villa earned a shock 1-0 victory at a below-par Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday.

Bruno Fernandes blazed a stoppage-time penalty over the crossbar as Aston Villa earned a shock 1-0 victory at a below-par Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday. Kortney Hause`s 88th-minute header put Villa on course for their first league win over United since 2009, but the defender`s handball gifted United an opportunity to steal a point, only for Fernandes to miss the target. Since Cristiano Ronaldo re-signed for United, there has been much debate over who will take penalties and free kicks this season – last term`s spot-kick taker Fernandes or his fellow Portuguese. It was Fernandes who took the first direct free kick on Saturday, firing into the wall, with Ronaldo getting the next one, and Fernandes, following Hause`s handball, never looked back as he placed the ball on the spot in the 92nd minute. But last season`s top scorer missed only his second spot-kick for the club to the dismay of an expectant crowd. "First of all the way they (Villa players) get round the penalty spot, get round Bruno and that, that`s not to my liking," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said. "Bruno is usually very good in those positions and unfortunately he missed this one." In truth, United got what they deserved. Villa had two great opportunities to break the deadlock in the first half with full back Matt Targett blazing over from two metres out, before Ollie Watkins was denied by a fine save from United goalkeeper David de Gea. The home side, encouraged by a frustrated Old Trafford crowd, stepped it up late in the match, but Hause climbed highest to stun the hosts before Fernandes` miss and United tasted league defeat for the first time this season. That second successive home loss in all competitions means United dropped to fourth in the standings on goal difference, with the top four sides all on 13 points. Villa climbed to seventh. Solskjaer called for a fast start from his side in his programme notes having seen his team often struggle to get going, and that is exactly what he got as Fernandes wasted a great chance inside two minutes. However, the hosts tailed off and really should have gone behind at halftime as Targett and Watkins missed great opportunities. The home fans were getting restless as the Premier League’s top goalscorers struggled to create clear-cut chances, with two headers as close as United came to breaking the deadlock before the break. The game opened up as the second half wore on with Mason Greenwood going close, before De Gea denied Watkins with another fine save. But the Spanish stopper could do nothing as Hause powered his header home, sparking wild scenes of celebration in the away end. The headlines, however, went to Fernandes, as his miss gave Villa a famous and thoroughly deserved success. "It (a Villa win at Old Trafford) has been a long time coming," Villa coach Dean Smith said. "Our performance levels have been good the last couple of times we`ve been here. "What that does is it gives an awful lot of belief to the players now."

Bruno Fernandes misses last-gasp penalty as Aston Villa stun Manchester United in Premier League

Aston Villa could be missing striker Ollie Watkins for their Premier League opener at promoted Watford on Saturday but new signing Emiliano Buendia is fit, manager Dean Smith told a news conference on Friday. 
 
Watkins hurt his knee in a friendly against Salernitana and Smith said it was touch and go whether he would be available. 
 
"We`re not too sure about Ollie at the moment, he went off with a knee injury (against Salernitana) which was bone bruising, so if he`s pain free today he`ll train, if he`s not then he won`t train and he won`t be available. 
 
"So we`ll pretty much be guided by Ollie himself." 
 
Buendia, signed from Norwich City for a fee of around 43 million pounds ($59.37 million), has recovered from a niggle says Smith. 
 
"Emi had a slight injury so we didn`t risk him in the game against Salernitana, but he`s available, he`s trained all week," Smith said. 
 
Playmaker Buendia will be expected to be fill the boots of Jack Grealish who signed for champions Manchester City in a British record deal of 100 million pounds. 
 
Smith says that while it was disappointing to lose club talisman Grealish, the signings of the likes of Buendia, striker Danny Ings and winger Leon Bailey means the squad is actually in better shape than last season. 
 
"That was the important thing for us that we strengthened the squad depth this season," Smith said. "We felt we had an XI who could compete against anybody, including the top teams last season. Now we`ve got more variation, more adaptability and more depth, and that`s really important for us this season. 
 
"Obviously Jack going is a big loss, we wanted to keep him here. But I think we`re in a good place, our business has been good, we`ve raised 100 million pounds for a young lad who came through the academy here at Aston Villa. And we`ve made him into a British record transfer."

Aston Villa could be missing striker Ollie Watkins for their Premier League opener at promoted Watford on Saturday but new signing Emiliano Buendia is fit, manager Dean Smith told a news conference on Friday.

Aston Villa could be missing striker Ollie Watkins for their Premier League opener at promoted Watford on Saturday but new signing Emiliano Buendia is fit, manager Dean Smith told a news conference on Friday. Watkins hurt his knee in a friendly against Salernitana and Smith said it was touch and go whether he would be available. "We`re not too sure about Ollie at the moment, he went off with a knee injury (against Salernitana) which was bone bruising, so if he`s pain free today he`ll train, if he`s not then he won`t train and he won`t be available. "So we`ll pretty much be guided by Ollie himself." Buendia, signed from Norwich City for a fee of around 43 million pounds ($59.37 million), has recovered from a niggle says Smith. "Emi had a slight injury so we didn`t risk him in the game against Salernitana, but he`s available, he`s trained all week," Smith said. Playmaker Buendia will be expected to be fill the boots of Jack Grealish who signed for champions Manchester City in a British record deal of 100 million pounds. Smith says that while it was disappointing to lose club talisman Grealish, the signings of the likes of Buendia, striker Danny Ings and winger Leon Bailey means the squad is actually in better shape than last season. "That was the important thing for us that we strengthened the squad depth this season," Smith said. "We felt we had an XI who could compete against anybody, including the top teams last season. Now we`ve got more variation, more adaptability and more depth, and that`s really important for us this season. "Obviously Jack going is a big loss, we wanted to keep him here. But I think we`re in a good place, our business has been good, we`ve raised 100 million pounds for a young lad who came through the academy here at Aston Villa. And we`ve made him into a British record transfer."

Football - Aston Villa waiting on fitness of Watkins for opener

Jack Grealish said leaving Aston Villa to join Manchester City carried him to tears and caused him to feel exactly the same way as Lionel Messi did about departing &nbsp;Barcelona.&nbsp;

The 25-year-old midfielder joined Manchester City last week for £100m in the greatest monetary deal in English football history, leaving the club where he had spent his whole profession.&nbsp;

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"It was so tough. I think everyone knows that," said Jack Grealish to a media outlet.

"I reported back for the pre-season as I was meant to. That's when the manager wanted me back so I obviously went back for a few days. It was obviously difficult because in the back of my head, I knew that I might be going."

"Everyone's seen the way Messi was at his final press conference and that is the exact way I felt myself.

"Before I left, at the hotel, I spoke to the team, the staff, and the players and I teared up a little bit myself."

Jack Grealish joined Manchester City on a six-year deal after the Premier League champions actuated the £100m provision in his Villa contract.&nbsp;

The exchange expense broke the past record in English football held by Paul Pogba when he rejoined Manchester United for £93.25m from Juventus in 2016.&nbsp;

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Jack Grealish, who was skipper at Aston Villa and left the club having scored 32 goals in 213 appearances, made his first appearance for Manchester City in Saturday's Community Shield loss to Leicester at Wembley.&nbsp;

Dissimilar to at Aston Villa, Grealish will confront extraordinary contest for a beginning spot at Manchester City, however, he is sure he can give various characteristics to any semblance of Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, and Phil Foden

Jack Grealish said leaving Aston Villa to join Manchester City carried him to tears and caused him to feel exactly the same way as Lionel Messi did about departing Barcelona.

Jack Grealish said leaving Aston Villa to join Manchester City carried him to tears and caused him to feel exactly the same way as Lionel Messi did about departing Barcelona. The 25-year-old midfielder joined Manchester City last week for £100m in the greatest monetary deal in English football history, leaving the club where he had spent his whole profession. ALSO READ: Football: US forward Josh Sargent joins Norwich from Werder Bremen "It was so tough. I think everyone knows that," said Jack Grealish to a media outlet. "I reported back for the pre-season as I was meant to. That's when the manager wanted me back so I obviously went back for a few days. It was obviously difficult because in the back of my head, I knew that I might be going." "Everyone's seen the way Messi was at his final press conference and that is the exact way I felt myself. "Before I left, at the hotel, I spoke to the team, the staff, and the players and I teared up a little bit myself." Jack Grealish joined Manchester City on a six-year deal after the Premier League champions actuated the £100m provision in his Villa contract. The exchange expense broke the past record in English football held by Paul Pogba when he rejoined Manchester United for £93.25m from Juventus in 2016. ALSO READ: Football: More problems for Barcelona as Sergio Aguero ruled out for 10 weeks Jack Grealish, who was skipper at Aston Villa and left the club having scored 32 goals in 213 appearances, made his first appearance for Manchester City in Saturday's Community Shield loss to Leicester at Wembley. Dissimilar to at Aston Villa, Grealish will confront extraordinary contest for a beginning spot at Manchester City, however, he is sure he can give various characteristics to any semblance of Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, and Phil Foden

Football: Jack Grealish says he cried like Lionel Messi over leaving Aston Villa

Chelsea are set to be without Andreas Christensen, N'Golo Kante, and Kai Havertz for their last Premier League round&nbsp;against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday. A couple of Chelsea stars are battling with hamstring issues ahead of the Aston Villa match.&nbsp;

Chelsea will head into Sunday's down against Aston Villa realising that solitary triumph against Dean Smith's side will promise them Champions League capability for next season.&nbsp;

Thomas Tuchel will perspire over the fitness of some of his players as he will have one eye on Chelsea's Champions League last against Manchester City on May 30.

Andreas Christensen has missed Chelsea's last three games because of a hamstring injury that he endured during the Blues' 2-1 triumph over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Thomas Tuchel, nonetheless, affirmed that Christensen could make his return against Aston Villa during a pre-match press conference on Friday.&nbsp;

N'Golo Kante has been in peremptory structure for Chelsea. He has placed in various game-dominating showcases for the Blues lately. N'Golo Kante was constrained off against Leicester City on Tuesday because of a hamstring issue.

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Thomas Tuchel uncovered that N'Golo Kante's condition is&nbsp;tricky and that he could in any case highlight against Aston Villa.&nbsp;

The Chelsea boss will sweat over the fitness of some of his players as he will have one eye on Chelsea's Champions League last against Manchester City on May 30.

"With NG Kante it's going to be very close, but there are some hopes he joins the team training on Friday. If not, he will join on Monday," said Tuchel.

German forward Kai&nbsp;Havertz is additionally encountering hamstring issues. Thomas Tuchel has not precluded Havertz for the game on Sunday however has said the club should run a few tests on the former Bayer Leverkusen man.&nbsp;

"Kai did a test today and will be tried in the group tomorrow," the Chelsea supervisor said.

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Notwithstanding having a Champions League finale against Manchester City on May 30, Thomas Tuchel is probably not going to handle a debilitated beginning XI against Aston Villa on Sunday.&nbsp;

The German will be quick to get the programmed capability to the Champions League by guaranteeing a triumph over Dean Smith's side at Villa Park. Thomas Tuchel will likewise be anxious to direct Chelsea to a third-place finish in the Premier League table, and enhancement for their fourth-place finish from last season.

Chelsea are set to be without Andreas Christensen, N'Golo Kante, and Kai Havertz for their last Premier League round against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday.

Chelsea are set to be without Andreas Christensen, N'Golo Kante, and Kai Havertz for their last Premier League round against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday. A couple of Chelsea stars are battling with hamstring issues ahead of the Aston Villa match. Chelsea will head into Sunday's down against Aston Villa realising that solitary triumph against Dean Smith's side will promise them Champions League capability for next season. Thomas Tuchel will perspire over the fitness of some of his players as he will have one eye on Chelsea's Champions League last against Manchester City on May 30. Andreas Christensen has missed Chelsea's last three games because of a hamstring injury that he endured during the Blues' 2-1 triumph over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Thomas Tuchel, nonetheless, affirmed that Christensen could make his return against Aston Villa during a pre-match press conference on Friday. N'Golo Kante has been in peremptory structure for Chelsea. He has placed in various game-dominating showcases for the Blues lately. N'Golo Kante was constrained off against Leicester City on Tuesday because of a hamstring issue. ALSO READ: Football: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford reveals ideal transfer move in future Thomas Tuchel uncovered that N'Golo Kante's condition is tricky and that he could in any case highlight against Aston Villa. The Chelsea boss will sweat over the fitness of some of his players as he will have one eye on Chelsea's Champions League last against Manchester City on May 30. "With NG Kante it's going to be very close, but there are some hopes he joins the team training on Friday. If not, he will join on Monday," said Tuchel. German forward Kai Havertz is additionally encountering hamstring issues. Thomas Tuchel has not precluded Havertz for the game on Sunday however has said the club should run a few tests on the former Bayer Leverkusen man. "Kai did a test today and will be tried in the group tomorrow," the Chelsea supervisor said. ALSO READ: 'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City Notwithstanding having a Champions League finale against Manchester City on May 30, Thomas Tuchel is probably not going to handle a debilitated beginning XI against Aston Villa on Sunday. The German will be quick to get the programmed capability to the Champions League by guaranteeing a triumph over Dean Smith's side at Villa Park. Thomas Tuchel will likewise be anxious to direct Chelsea to a third-place finish in the Premier League table, and enhancement for their fourth-place finish from last season.

Football: Thomas Tuchel stressing over fitness of Chelsea players ahead of Aston Villa match

A superb late goal from Aston Villa's Anwar El Ghazi condemned Everton to a 2-1 defeat in an action-packed clash and hit their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League on Saturday.

The result left the Merseyside club, who have won only one of their last 10 league matches at home, eighth on 52 points while Villa moved two places up to ninth on 48 points. Everton trail fourth-placed Chelsea by nine points with five games left to play.

Villa missed plenty of chances in an action-packed first half after Ollie Watkins fired them ahead in the 13th minute but grabbed the winner out of the blue when El Ghazi unleashed an 80th-minute thunderbolt into the top corner.

Their manager Dean Smith was pleased with the outcome and acknowledged Villa still had plenty to play for as they rekindled hopes of securing a place in Europe.

"It's easy for people to say we haven't got anything to play for but we want to finish as high as we can," Smith told the BBC. "We want to regain that momentum and consistency we had earlier in the season.

"It was a really good game of&nbsp;football&nbsp;and both teams tried to win. I think we deserved it on the balance of chances. Jordan Pickford was in really good form and denied Ollie Watkins time and time again."

Having spurned an early chance, Watkins gave Villa the lead as he robbed Mason Holgate of the ball and steered a low shot past Everton goalkeeper Pickford but sloppy defending cost the visitors shortly afterward.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin leveled in the 19th minute when he nodded in a Lucas Digne corner at the far post and then missed a gilt-edged chance as Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez kept out the striker's close-range header.

Villa dominated the final 20 minutes of an absorbing first half as they missed one chance after another, with El Ghazi and Ross Barkley hitting the woodwork while Pickford denied Bertrand Traore twice in quick succession.

The pace fizzed out in the closing stages and just as the game seemed to be heading for a draw, El Ghazi picked his spot on the edge of the area and gave Pickford no chance with a delightful shot.

Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti was frustrated after his side's poor home league form continued.

"It is difficult to say why (Everton struggle at home)," said the Italian. "It is the same team who beat Arsenal seven days ago. We of course could do better at home for sure. It is unbelievable, the run we had away and the run we had at home.

"We made a lot of mistakes at the beginning - no balance, no concentration. It was not a good evening."

A superb late goal from Aston Villa's Anwar El Ghazi condemned Everton to a 2-1 defeat in an action-packed clash and hit their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League on Saturday.

A superb late goal from Aston Villa's Anwar El Ghazi condemned Everton to a 2-1 defeat in an action-packed clash and hit their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League on Saturday. The result left the Merseyside club, who have won only one of their last 10 league matches at home, eighth on 52 points while Villa moved two places up to ninth on 48 points. Everton trail fourth-placed Chelsea by nine points with five games left to play. Villa missed plenty of chances in an action-packed first half after Ollie Watkins fired them ahead in the 13th minute but grabbed the winner out of the blue when El Ghazi unleashed an 80th-minute thunderbolt into the top corner. Their manager Dean Smith was pleased with the outcome and acknowledged Villa still had plenty to play for as they rekindled hopes of securing a place in Europe. "It's easy for people to say we haven't got anything to play for but we want to finish as high as we can," Smith told the BBC. "We want to regain that momentum and consistency we had earlier in the season. "It was a really good game of football and both teams tried to win. I think we deserved it on the balance of chances. Jordan Pickford was in really good form and denied Ollie Watkins time and time again." Having spurned an early chance, Watkins gave Villa the lead as he robbed Mason Holgate of the ball and steered a low shot past Everton goalkeeper Pickford but sloppy defending cost the visitors shortly afterward. Dominic Calvert-Lewin leveled in the 19th minute when he nodded in a Lucas Digne corner at the far post and then missed a gilt-edged chance as Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez kept out the striker's close-range header. Villa dominated the final 20 minutes of an absorbing first half as they missed one chance after another, with El Ghazi and Ross Barkley hitting the woodwork while Pickford denied Bertrand Traore twice in quick succession. The pace fizzed out in the closing stages and just as the game seemed to be heading for a draw, El Ghazi picked his spot on the edge of the area and gave Pickford no chance with a delightful shot. Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti was frustrated after his side's poor home league form continued. "It is difficult to say why (Everton struggle at home)," said the Italian. "It is the same team who beat Arsenal seven days ago. We of course could do better at home for sure. It is unbelievable, the run we had away and the run we had at home. "We made a lot of mistakes at the beginning - no balance, no concentration. It was not a good evening."

El Ghazi stunner gives Aston Villa 2-1 win at Everton

Jurgen Klopp has told Liverpool to "put things right" when they welcome Aston Villa to Anfield on Saturday following their 7-2 mauling at the hands of Dean Smith's men earlier this season.

It is a loss that lingers in the memory for Klopp, who dismissed suggestions a 4-1 FA Cup win in January counted as any sort of payback as Villa fielded an academy side following a coronavirus outbreak among the first-team ranks.

"No, we played a different Aston Villa that night," he said on Friday. "Of course we have to put things right, that's clear. You cannot put a game like this to one side immediately, that's not possible.

"We had to work with it. A lot of things showed us in that game which were a problem that day, some of the problems we had before, some of the problems we never had before."

"Things like this should not happen but it happened to us," he added.&nbsp;

"It was a really strange game. I have the game in my mind and which way I will use it I am not sure yet."

Ollie Watkins scored a hat-trick in Villa's 7-2 win and his goals have helped his team establish themselves in the top half of the table, just five points behind faltering champions Liverpool.

Liverpool are desperate to end their Anfield jinx as they seek to return to the top four, at least temporarily -- Klopp's men have lost their past six Premier League games at home.

They will also be looking to bounce back from a 3-1 defeat at Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final this week, when Naby Keita was withdrawn before half-time.

It was just the Guinean's second European start of the season but the gamble backfired as he was replaced by Thiago Alcantara with Liverpool's midfield in disarray.

"The substitution in the last game was a decision I made in that moment," said Klopp. "We had to sort the game for us and it was difficult to do that without making a change.

"After the game, yesterday, we spoke and everything is OK. I explained the decision and he accepted it, obviously, so now we carry on."

Jurgen Klopp has told Liverpool to "put things right" when they welcome Aston Villa to Anfield on Saturday following their 7-2 mauling at the hands of Dean Smith's men earlier this season.

Jurgen Klopp has told Liverpool to "put things right" when they welcome Aston Villa to Anfield on Saturday following their 7-2 mauling at the hands of Dean Smith's men earlier this season. It is a loss that lingers in the memory for Klopp, who dismissed suggestions a 4-1 FA Cup win in January counted as any sort of payback as Villa fielded an academy side following a coronavirus outbreak among the first-team ranks. "No, we played a different Aston Villa that night," he said on Friday. "Of course we have to put things right, that's clear. You cannot put a game like this to one side immediately, that's not possible. "We had to work with it. A lot of things showed us in that game which were a problem that day, some of the problems we had before, some of the problems we never had before." "Things like this should not happen but it happened to us," he added. "It was a really strange game. I have the game in my mind and which way I will use it I am not sure yet." Ollie Watkins scored a hat-trick in Villa's 7-2 win and his goals have helped his team establish themselves in the top half of the table, just five points behind faltering champions Liverpool. Liverpool are desperate to end their Anfield jinx as they seek to return to the top four, at least temporarily -- Klopp's men have lost their past six Premier League games at home. They will also be looking to bounce back from a 3-1 defeat at Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final this week, when Naby Keita was withdrawn before half-time. It was just the Guinean's second European start of the season but the gamble backfired as he was replaced by Thiago Alcantara with Liverpool's midfield in disarray. "The substitution in the last game was a decision I made in that moment," said Klopp. "We had to sort the game for us and it was difficult to do that without making a change. "After the game, yesterday, we spoke and everything is OK. I explained the decision and he accepted it, obviously, so now we carry on."

Liverpool seek to avenge Aston Villa mauling

The COVID-19 outbreak at Aston Villa has forced their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match against Everton to be postponed as the Premier League holds talks with captains and managers to urge them to keep up with the enhanced regulation to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

“A significant number of players and staff remain in isolation” at Villa, the league said on Thursday.&nbsp;

Aston Villa, whose match against Tottenham Hotspur was also called off, are expecting the isolating players and staff to return to training from Sunday.&nbsp;

The Premier League has tightened up the COVID-19 protocols as the United Kingdom continue to fight against the virus. The players and managers have been asked to avoid handshake and hugging during goal celebrations with the message being reinforced in virtual meetings with captains and managers before this weekend's matches.&nbsp;

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“Some of the scenes we have seen have been brainless and give out an awful message,” said Julian Knight, who chairs the House of Commons select committee overseeing sports policy.&nbsp;

The Premier League, like other elite sports competitions, has been allowed to continue during the recent lockdown in England which started last week. However, the government on Wednesday expressed concerns about players not following regulations when it comes to celebrating goals.&nbsp;

Manchester City players hugged after Phil Foden's strike in their 1-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday. Pep Guardiola, after the match, defended his players.&nbsp;

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“Sometimes the brain is a subconscious one and you are just there in the moment,” City manager Pep Guardiola said. “You are not thinking.”&nbsp;

Britain recorded another 1,564 deaths, announced on Wednesday, the highest on a single day since the pandemic began in 2020.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 outbreak at Aston Villa has forced their Premier League match against Everton to be postponed as the Premier League holds talks with captains and managers to urge them to keep up with the enhanced regulation to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.

The COVID-19 outbreak at Aston Villa has forced their Premier League match against Everton to be postponed as the Premier League holds talks with captains and managers to urge them to keep up with the enhanced regulation to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. “A significant number of players and staff remain in isolation” at Villa, the league said on Thursday. Aston Villa, whose match against Tottenham Hotspur was also called off, are expecting the isolating players and staff to return to training from Sunday. The Premier League has tightened up the COVID-19 protocols as the United Kingdom continue to fight against the virus. The players and managers have been asked to avoid handshake and hugging during goal celebrations with the message being reinforced in virtual meetings with captains and managers before this weekend's matches. ALSO READ: Fulham silence Mourinho with late leveller to deny Spurs “Some of the scenes we have seen have been brainless and give out an awful message,” said Julian Knight, who chairs the House of Commons select committee overseeing sports policy. The Premier League, like other elite sports competitions, has been allowed to continue during the recent lockdown in England which started last week. However, the government on Wednesday expressed concerns about players not following regulations when it comes to celebrating goals. Manchester City players hugged after Phil Foden's strike in their 1-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday. Pep Guardiola, after the match, defended his players. ALSO READ: 'LaLiga is beyond individuals': Fernando Hierro on Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos contract situation “Sometimes the brain is a subconscious one and you are just there in the moment,” City manager Pep Guardiola said. “You are not thinking.” Britain recorded another 1,564 deaths, announced on Wednesday, the highest on a single day since the pandemic began in 2020.

Premier League calls off match; urges captains to end hugs, handshakes

Tottenham Hotspur's match against coronavirus-ravaged Aston Villa has been postponed with Jose Mourinho's men instead set to face Fulham in a rearranged fixture on Wednesday.

Fulham's match against Spurs on December 30 was itself postponed because of a Covid-19 outbreak among Scott Parker's squad.

"Following&nbsp;Aston Villa's request to rearrange the fixture, and due to the number of players and staff who have either tested positive for COVID-19 or have been placed in isolation by the club, the Premier League had no other option than to reschedule the match," the Premier League said in a statement on Monday.

"As a result of this rescheduling, Spurs will now play their home match against&nbsp;Fulham&nbsp;in its place, on Wednesday 13 January at 20:15 GMT."

Mourinho had said it was "completely impossible" for any more of his side's matches to be postponed amid a fixture pile-up with Spurs still involved in four competitions.

However, the solution at least eases Tottenham's backlog with another clash with Fulham also needing to be rescheduled from the weekend they face Manchester City in the League Cup final on April 25.

Fulham's west London derby with Chelsea has been put back from Friday to Saturday, while Villa's next match at home to Everton has also been delayed from Saturday to Sunday, by which point some of their affected players will have fulfilled a 10-day isolation period.

Villa fielded a youth team without any first-team players or coaches for Friday's 4-1 FA Cup third round defeat to Liverpool.

Tottenham Hotspur's match against coronavirus-ravaged Aston Villa has been postponed with Jose Mourinho's men instead set to face Fulham in a rearranged fixture on Wednesday.

Tottenham Hotspur's match against coronavirus-ravaged Aston Villa has been postponed with Jose Mourinho's men instead set to face Fulham in a rearranged fixture on Wednesday. Fulham's match against Spurs on December 30 was itself postponed because of a Covid-19 outbreak among Scott Parker's squad. "Following Aston Villa's request to rearrange the fixture, and due to the number of players and staff who have either tested positive for COVID-19 or have been placed in isolation by the club, the Premier League had no other option than to reschedule the match," the Premier League said in a statement on Monday. "As a result of this rescheduling, Spurs will now play their home match against Fulham in its place, on Wednesday 13 January at 20:15 GMT." Mourinho had said it was "completely impossible" for any more of his side's matches to be postponed amid a fixture pile-up with Spurs still involved in four competitions. However, the solution at least eases Tottenham's backlog with another clash with Fulham also needing to be rescheduled from the weekend they face Manchester City in the League Cup final on April 25. Fulham's west London derby with Chelsea has been put back from Friday to Saturday, while Villa's next match at home to Everton has also been delayed from Saturday to Sunday, by which point some of their affected players will have fulfilled a 10-day isolation period. Villa fielded a youth team without any first-team players or coaches for Friday's 4-1 FA Cup third round defeat to Liverpool.

Tottenham to play Fulham instead of Villa after virus issues

Aston Villa have confirmed that their Friday’s FA Cup third-round encounter against Liverpool will be played as per scheduled despite many of their first-team players and staff testing positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Villa were forced to shut their training ground on Thursday with concerns that they would have to forfeit their match&nbsp;against&nbsp;Jurgen Klopp’s side.&nbsp;

"Aston Villa can confirm that the Emirates FA Cup third-round tie with Liverpool will be played at Villa Park this evening," read a brief statement on the club's website.&nbsp;

As per reports, no first-team player will participate in the FA Cup tie with 10 players in the first-team bubble testing positive for the virus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-exit-for-ozil-could-be-best-solution-says-arteta-355324" hreflang="en">Arsenal exit for Ozil could be 'best solution', says Arteta</a>

With no Steve Bruce available, under-23s coach Mark Delaney is expected to take charge of a side assembled with under-18 and under-23 players.&nbsp;

The recent outbreak at Villa also put their upcoming Premier League matches in doubt. They are set to face Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday before taking on Everton on January&nbsp;16.&nbsp;

There are further concerns over the Premier League 2020-21 season fate with infection rising sharply in Britain.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coronavirus-brexit-tame-premier-league-spending-355319" hreflang="en">Coronavirus, Brexit tame Premier League spending</a>

A record-high 40 positive tests were detected among Premier League players and staff in the week between December 28 and January 3.&nbsp;

Newcastle United’s match against Aston Villa in December 2020 was the first top-flight match to get postponed by COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

Magpies manager Steve Bruce questioned the morality of playing on as the pandemic worsens.&nbsp;

"The speed which it hit our club within a week, and ripped through, is something which all clubs will be looking at now," he said.&nbsp;

"It's difficult to contain and it leaves people sick. Financially it's right to play on but morally, for me, it's probably wrong."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Aston Villa have confirmed that their Friday’s FA Cup third-round encounter against Liverpool will be played as per scheduled despite many of their first-team players and staff testing positive for coronavirus.

Aston Villa have confirmed that their Friday’s FA Cup third-round encounter against Liverpool will be played as per scheduled despite many of their first-team players and staff testing positive for coronavirus. Villa were forced to shut their training ground on Thursday with concerns that they would have to forfeit their match against Jurgen Klopp’s side. "Aston Villa can confirm that the Emirates FA Cup third-round tie with Liverpool will be played at Villa Park this evening," read a brief statement on the club's website. As per reports, no first-team player will participate in the FA Cup tie with 10 players in the first-team bubble testing positive for the virus. ALSO READ: Arsenal exit for Ozil could be 'best solution', says Arteta With no Steve Bruce available, under-23s coach Mark Delaney is expected to take charge of a side assembled with under-18 and under-23 players. The recent outbreak at Villa also put their upcoming Premier League matches in doubt. They are set to face Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday before taking on Everton on January 16. There are further concerns over the Premier League 2020-21 season fate with infection rising sharply in Britain. ALSO READ: Coronavirus, Brexit tame Premier League spending A record-high 40 positive tests were detected among Premier League players and staff in the week between December 28 and January 3. Newcastle United’s match against Aston Villa in December 2020 was the first top-flight match to get postponed by COVID-19 outbreak. Magpies manager Steve Bruce questioned the morality of playing on as the pandemic worsens. "The speed which it hit our club within a week, and ripped through, is something which all clubs will be looking at now," he said. "It's difficult to contain and it leaves people sick. Financially it's right to play on but morally, for me, it's probably wrong."

FA Cup: Aston Villa confirm Liverpool match to go ahead despite coronavirus outbreak

Aston Villa were forced to close their training ground on Thursday after two rounds of testing returned multiple positive cases of coronavirus among players and staff.

"A large number of first team players and staff returned positive tests after being routinely tested on Monday and immediately went into isolation," Villa said in a statement.

"A second round of testing was carried out immediately and produced more positive results today."

The Premier League club's FA Cup third round tie against Liverpool on Friday is now at risk of being postponed.

"First team training ahead of tomorrow’s FA Cup match with Liverpool was cancelled," Villa's statement added.

"Discussions are ongoing between medical representatives of the Club, the Football Association and the Premier League."

Villa are the fourth Premier League club to suffer a Covid-19 outbreak in the last two months with growing concerns over whether the English top-flight can complete the season on schedule.

Three Premier League matches were postponed last week due to outbreaks at Manchester City and Fulham.

On Tuesday, a record high of 40 positive tests were detected among Premier League players and staff in the week between December 28 and January 3.

Southampton's FA Cup trip to Shrewsbury has already been postponed due to a number of positive cases at the League One club.

Wayne Rooney's Derby will fulfil their fixture at Chorley with a youth team after nine positive tests among first-team players and staff.

Aston Villa were forced to close their training ground on Thursday after two rounds of testing returned multiple positive cases of coronavirus among players and staff.

Aston Villa were forced to close their training ground on Thursday after two rounds of testing returned multiple positive cases of coronavirus among players and staff. "A large number of first team players and staff returned positive tests after being routinely tested on Monday and immediately went into isolation," Villa said in a statement. "A second round of testing was carried out immediately and produced more positive results today." The Premier League club's FA Cup third round tie against Liverpool on Friday is now at risk of being postponed. "First team training ahead of tomorrow’s FA Cup match with Liverpool was cancelled," Villa's statement added. "Discussions are ongoing between medical representatives of the Club, the Football Association and the Premier League." Villa are the fourth Premier League club to suffer a Covid-19 outbreak in the last two months with growing concerns over whether the English top-flight can complete the season on schedule. Three Premier League matches were postponed last week due to outbreaks at Manchester City and Fulham. On Tuesday, a record high of 40 positive tests were detected among Premier League players and staff in the week between December 28 and January 3. Southampton's FA Cup trip to Shrewsbury has already been postponed due to a number of positive cases at the League One club. Wayne Rooney's Derby will fulfil their fixture at Chorley with a youth team after nine positive tests among first-team players and staff.

Aston Villa training ground closed due to coronavirus outbreak

Liverpool became the first reigning English champions to concede seven goals in a league match since 1953 and Manchester United were thrashed 6-1 as inquests started after a humiliating day for England's two most successful clubs.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side thought they had grabbed the headlines for all the wrong reasons against Tottenham on Sunday but Jurgen Klopp's team upstaged them in a scarcely credible 7-2 defeat against Aston Villa.

Klopp can argue Liverpool's defeat is a bizarre one-off after an impressive start to the season but United appear to be in deep trouble as the international transfer deadline looms on Monday.

Liverpool, who romped to the title by 18 points in the 2019/20 campaign, went into their match at an empty Villa Park with a 100 percent record in the league this season.

They were missing first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker through injury and were also without Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara, who have both tested positive for coronavirus, but were still expected to have too much for their opponents.

But Villa forward Ollie Watkins scored a first-half hat-trick and Jack Grealish had a hand in five goals as Liverpool's high line was torn apart by the home side's counter-attacking.

"It was unexpected but it happened tonight," said Klopp, whose side lost just four league matches over the previous two seasons.

"We put all our rubbish things and mistakes in one game and hopefully we can start again."

The Liverpool boss said he was desperate to get his players back on the training pitch but they are now heading off for an international break before gathering again for a tough-looking challenge at table-topping Everton.

"I would love to have a training session tomorrow and Tuesday and to talk about it, but the boys go back off to international duty," Klopp said. "Hopefully they come back healthy and we use the two days to prepare for Everton."

&nbsp;

<h2>- United woes -</h2>

&nbsp;

While Liverpool will hope their result is an anomaly, there is plenty of evidence that United have lost their way.

The Old Trafford club have not competed for the Premier League title since Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 but hopes were high after they finished third last season.

That optimism has been misplaced, with United soundly beaten 3-1 at home by Crystal Palace and incredibly fortunate to escape with a 3-2 victory at Brighton last weekend.

But they sank to a new low at an echoing Old Trafford on Sunday as Harry Kane and Son Heung-min ran riot, scoring two goals apiece against the home side, who were reduced to 10 men after the first-half sending-off of Anthony Martial.

Former United defender Gary Neville, now a TV pundit, described their performance as "an absolute shambles" as they matched their 6-1 loss to Manchester City in 2011.

United's players were fortunate there were no supporters in the ground to witness the rout.

Club captain Harry Maguire apologised to fans in an Instagram post, saying the performance was "unacceptable" and Marcus Rashford said there were no excuses.

Solskjaer took the blame for the humiliation, which once again raises major questions about whether he is the man to restore the club to their former glories.

"It's a horrible feeling, the worst day I've had as a Manchester United manager and player," said the Norwegian manager.

"It's nowhere near good enough. I hold my hands up. It's my decision to pick the team I did. Also as a squad, that's not good enough for Manchester United."

The chastening defeat comes at the end of another difficult transfer window for United, who look to have failed in their pursuit of their number one target, Borussia Dortmund forward Jadon Sancho.

Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani is reportedly set to join the Red Devils after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, but it is at the other end of the pitch that United are most in need of reinforcements.

Brazil left-back Alex Telles appears likely to arrive from Porto but it does not look enough to shore up a leaky defence that has shipped 11 goals in three Premier League matches.

While Liverpool remain favourites to win a second successive Premier League table despite their humbling, United already look out of the running as they scramble for answers

Liverpool became the first reigning English champions to concede seven goals in a league match since 1953 and Manchester United were thrashed 6-1 as inquests started after a humiliating day for England's two most successful clubs.

Liverpool became the first reigning English champions to concede seven goals in a league match since 1953 and Manchester United were thrashed 6-1 as inquests started after a humiliating day for England's two most successful clubs. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side thought they had grabbed the headlines for all the wrong reasons against Tottenham on Sunday but Jurgen Klopp's team upstaged them in a scarcely credible 7-2 defeat against Aston Villa. Klopp can argue Liverpool's defeat is a bizarre one-off after an impressive start to the season but United appear to be in deep trouble as the international transfer deadline looms on Monday. Liverpool, who romped to the title by 18 points in the 2019/20 campaign, went into their match at an empty Villa Park with a 100 percent record in the league this season. They were missing first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker through injury and were also without Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara, who have both tested positive for coronavirus, but were still expected to have too much for their opponents. But Villa forward Ollie Watkins scored a first-half hat-trick and Jack Grealish had a hand in five goals as Liverpool's high line was torn apart by the home side's counter-attacking. "It was unexpected but it happened tonight," said Klopp, whose side lost just four league matches over the previous two seasons. "We put all our rubbish things and mistakes in one game and hopefully we can start again." The Liverpool boss said he was desperate to get his players back on the training pitch but they are now heading off for an international break before gathering again for a tough-looking challenge at table-topping Everton. "I would love to have a training session tomorrow and Tuesday and to talk about it, but the boys go back off to international duty," Klopp said. "Hopefully they come back healthy and we use the two days to prepare for Everton." - United woes - While Liverpool will hope their result is an anomaly, there is plenty of evidence that United have lost their way. The Old Trafford club have not competed for the Premier League title since Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 but hopes were high after they finished third last season. That optimism has been misplaced, with United soundly beaten 3-1 at home by Crystal Palace and incredibly fortunate to escape with a 3-2 victory at Brighton last weekend. But they sank to a new low at an echoing Old Trafford on Sunday as Harry Kane and Son Heung-min ran riot, scoring two goals apiece against the home side, who were reduced to 10 men after the first-half sending-off of Anthony Martial. Former United defender Gary Neville, now a TV pundit, described their performance as "an absolute shambles" as they matched their 6-1 loss to Manchester City in 2011. United's players were fortunate there were no supporters in the ground to witness the rout. Club captain Harry Maguire apologised to fans in an Instagram post, saying the performance was "unacceptable" and Marcus Rashford said there were no excuses. Solskjaer took the blame for the humiliation, which once again raises major questions about whether he is the man to restore the club to their former glories. "It's a horrible feeling, the worst day I've had as a Manchester United manager and player," said the Norwegian manager. "It's nowhere near good enough. I hold my hands up. It's my decision to pick the team I did. Also as a squad, that's not good enough for Manchester United." The chastening defeat comes at the end of another difficult transfer window for United, who look to have failed in their pursuit of their number one target, Borussia Dortmund forward Jadon Sancho. Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani is reportedly set to join the Red Devils after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, but it is at the other end of the pitch that United are most in need of reinforcements. Brazil left-back Alex Telles appears likely to arrive from Porto but it does not look enough to shore up a leaky defence that has shipped 11 goals in three Premier League matches. While Liverpool remain favourites to win a second successive Premier League table despite their humbling, United already look out of the running as they scramble for answers

Liverpool, Man Utd lick wounds after humbling Premier League defeats

Dean Smith urged Aston Villa to finish the job after they climbed out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> relegation zone as Trezeguet clinched a priceless 1-0 win against Arsenal on Tuesday.

Smith's side have their survival fate in their own hands after the Egypt winger's first-half strike at Villa Park.

Watford's 4-0 thrashing against Manchester City earlier on Tuesday had opened the door for Villa to escape the bottom three.

And Villa seized their chance with a first home Premier League win over Arsenal in 18 attempts dating back to 1998.

Villa are now fourth bottom and have moved ahead of third-bottom Watford on goal difference, with Smith's men on -26 compared to the Hornets' -27.

They head to&nbsp;West Ham for their final game of the season on Sunday, while Watford visit Arsenal and second-bottom Bournemouth, three points from safety, travel to Everton.

There are a multitude of permutations that could decide relegation, but Villa will be safe if they can better Watford's result on what is certain to be a dramatic finale.

If Villa and Watford both win, goal difference or goals scored will decide who goes down.

"It is a big boost, that's for sure. We knew we had to get that win to catch Watford and now we have got the season in our own hands," Smith said.

"That's all you can ask going into the last game. It was a great performance and an even better result against a good team who just beat two of the best teams in Europe.

"We have taken the season to the last day. Watford can go and win at Arsenal so we have to make sure we win at West Ham."

Having secured an FA Cup final place by beating Manchester City on Saturday, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta made six changes and Arsenal looked a shadow of the team who impressed at Wembley.

"Emotionally and physically it's been a very demanding week but I saw a team who wanted to fight until the end," Arteta insisted.

Arsenal cannot finish higher than eighth and must win the FA Cup final against Chelsea to qualify for next season's Europa League.&nbsp;

For all the positive signs since Arteta took charge in December, Arsenal will suffer their worst Premier League finish since 1995.

"It tells you the gap doesn't lie. We have to make that smaller and smaller," Arteta said.

"I know where we are in certain areas and where we need to improve. We will get that."

&nbsp;

<h2>- Arteta plea -</h2>

&nbsp;

A plane trailing a banner reading "Back Arteta Kroenke Out" was flown over Villa Park during the match, but Arteta pleaded with Arsenal fans to trust he has the support of the US-based owner.

"The Kroenkes and the board and the sporting director, I have their full backing. I have that 100 percent. The fans have to believe what I'm saying," Arteta added.

Arsenal's long-standing weakness at set-pieces reared its head again as Villa snatched the lead in the 27th minute.

Tyrone Mings glanced Conor Hourihane's corner across the six-yard box and Trezeguet was left unmarked to blast a fierce strike past Arsenal keeper Emiliano Martinez.

Trezeguet has been Villa's savour as the stakes have got higher and his vital goal followed his brace in the victory against Crystal Palace nine days earlier.

Jack Grealish, strongly linked with a close-season move, was captaining Villa in what could have been his last home game with the club he supported as a boy.

Asked after the match about his future, Grealish said: "I'm not too sure at the moment. I have one aim and that's to keep Villa in the Premier League. That's all I'm thinking about."

Arsenal were better in the second half but Bukayo Saka blazed over from a good position 12 yards out.

With the tension mounting, Villa rode their luck when Eddie Nketiah's glancing header hit the post and bounced back into Pepe Reina's hands.

Dean Smith urged Aston Villa to finish the job after they climbed out of the Premier League relegation zone as Trezeguet clinched a priceless 1-0 win against Arsenal on Tuesday.

Dean Smith urged Aston Villa to finish the job after they climbed out of the Premier League relegation zone as Trezeguet clinched a priceless 1-0 win against Arsenal on Tuesday. Smith's side have their survival fate in their own hands after the Egypt winger's first-half strike at Villa Park. Watford's 4-0 thrashing against Manchester City earlier on Tuesday had opened the door for Villa to escape the bottom three. And Villa seized their chance with a first home Premier League win over Arsenal in 18 attempts dating back to 1998. Villa are now fourth bottom and have moved ahead of third-bottom Watford on goal difference, with Smith's men on -26 compared to the Hornets' -27. They head to West Ham for their final game of the season on Sunday, while Watford visit Arsenal and second-bottom Bournemouth, three points from safety, travel to Everton. There are a multitude of permutations that could decide relegation, but Villa will be safe if they can better Watford's result on what is certain to be a dramatic finale. If Villa and Watford both win, goal difference or goals scored will decide who goes down. "It is a big boost, that's for sure. We knew we had to get that win to catch Watford and now we have got the season in our own hands," Smith said. "That's all you can ask going into the last game. It was a great performance and an even better result against a good team who just beat two of the best teams in Europe. "We have taken the season to the last day. Watford can go and win at Arsenal so we have to make sure we win at West Ham." Having secured an FA Cup final place by beating Manchester City on Saturday, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta made six changes and Arsenal looked a shadow of the team who impressed at Wembley. "Emotionally and physically it's been a very demanding week but I saw a team who wanted to fight until the end," Arteta insisted. Arsenal cannot finish higher than eighth and must win the FA Cup final against Chelsea to qualify for next season's Europa League. For all the positive signs since Arteta took charge in December, Arsenal will suffer their worst Premier League finish since 1995. "It tells you the gap doesn't lie. We have to make that smaller and smaller," Arteta said. "I know where we are in certain areas and where we need to improve. We will get that." - Arteta plea - A plane trailing a banner reading "Back Arteta Kroenke Out" was flown over Villa Park during the match, but Arteta pleaded with Arsenal fans to trust he has the support of the US-based owner. "The Kroenkes and the board and the sporting director, I have their full backing. I have that 100 percent. The fans have to believe what I'm saying," Arteta added. Arsenal's long-standing weakness at set-pieces reared its head again as Villa snatched the lead in the 27th minute. Tyrone Mings glanced Conor Hourihane's corner across the six-yard box and Trezeguet was left unmarked to blast a fierce strike past Arsenal keeper Emiliano Martinez. Trezeguet has been Villa's savour as the stakes have got higher and his vital goal followed his brace in the victory against Crystal Palace nine days earlier. Jack Grealish, strongly linked with a close-season move, was captaining Villa in what could have been his last home game with the club he supported as a boy. Asked after the match about his future, Grealish said: "I'm not too sure at the moment. I have one aim and that's to keep Villa in the Premier League. That's all I'm thinking about." Arsenal were better in the second half but Bukayo Saka blazed over from a good position 12 yards out. With the tension mounting, Villa rode their luck when Eddie Nketiah's glancing header hit the post and bounced back into Pepe Reina's hands.

Villa out of relegation zone as Trezeguet sinks Arsenal

Aston Villa and Sheffield United played out a goalless draw as the Premier League made a poignant re-start after the COVID-19 lockdown on Wednesday with strong statements against racism and an embarrassing failure of goalline technology.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-outclass-arsenal-raheem-sterling-coins-on-david-luizs-mistakes-306696" hreflang="en">Manchester City outclass Arsenal; Raheem Sterling coins on David Luiz's mistakes</a>

In the first game back after a 100-day hiatus, visitors United were denied a legitimate goal at Villa Park when the ball crossed the line, but was not awarded, leading to an apology from Hawk-Eye, who provide the goalline technology system.

It was a let-off for Villa, who remained second-bottom in the table with 26 points, while Champions League-chasing Sheffield United moved sixth, a point behind Manchester United above them with nine games of the season remaining.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/black-lives-matter-english-premier-league-players-take-knee-in-solidarity-306656" hreflang="en">Black Lives Matter: English Premier League players take knee in solidarity</a>

The match had begun with a strong statement of support for the worldwide protests against racism as the players and match officials all took a knee on the opening whistle.

All the players' names on the back of their shirts were replaced with the words ‘Black Lives Matter’ as the Premier League joined the international protest campaign sparked by the death of George Floyd in America.

There was also a moment's silence before kickoff in memory of those who died in the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis, which included the father of Villa manager Dean Smith.

The game's major talking point arrived just before halftime when off-balance Villa goalkeeper Orjan Nyland caught a curling free kick but was bundled back over the line by team mate Keinan Davis in a clumsy defensive mix-up.

Referee Michael Oliver, pointing to his watch, looked to indicate that goalline technology had not verified the ball had crossed the line, despite what appeared to be clear evidence on TV replays.

There was also no intervention from the Video Assistant Referee.

Hawk-Eye issued a statement after the game saying the seven cameras in the stands around the goal area were obstructed by the keeper, defender and goalpost.

“This level of occlusion has never been seen before in over 9,000 matches that the Hawk-Eye Goal Line Technology system has been in operation,” the company said, re-igniting the debate over technology in football.

The visitors will feel hard done by but also had goalkeeper Dean Henderson to thank for securing a share of the points in a lively affair on a rainy evening, where both sides showed a lack of match practice.

He made key saves in the second half, first to deny Davis and then push away a rasping shot from John McGinn on the hour mark as Villa, who lost 4-0 at Leicester City in their last game before the league was suspended on March 9, made six changes to their starting lineup.

Yet sloppy defending, a characteristic of Villa's play this season, almost came back to haunt them when a poor pass was intercepted only for John Lundstram’s 70th-minute effort to be blocked.

Neither side took advantage of the new rule allowing five substitutes, but Villa used four in another first for a league game in England.

The game was also stripped of its usual pre-match routine as both sides attempted to keep their distance amid strict health protocols, taking to the field separately and not shaking hands before kickoff.

Aston Villa and Sheffield United played out a goalless draw as the Premier League made a poignant re-start after the COVID-19 lockdown on Wednesday with strong statements against racism and an embarrassing failure of goalline technology.

Aston Villa and Sheffield United played out a goalless draw as the Premier League made a poignant re-start after the COVID-19 lockdown on Wednesday with strong statements against racism and an embarrassing failure of goalline technology. Also read: Manchester City outclass Arsenal; Raheem Sterling coins on David Luiz's mistakes In the first game back after a 100-day hiatus, visitors United were denied a legitimate goal at Villa Park when the ball crossed the line, but was not awarded, leading to an apology from Hawk-Eye, who provide the goalline technology system. It was a let-off for Villa, who remained second-bottom in the table with 26 points, while Champions League-chasing Sheffield United moved sixth, a point behind Manchester United above them with nine games of the season remaining. Also read: Black Lives Matter: English Premier League players take knee in solidarity The match had begun with a strong statement of support for the worldwide protests against racism as the players and match officials all took a knee on the opening whistle. All the players' names on the back of their shirts were replaced with the words ‘Black Lives Matter’ as the Premier League joined the international protest campaign sparked by the death of George Floyd in America. There was also a moment's silence before kickoff in memory of those who died in the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis, which included the father of Villa manager Dean Smith. The game's major talking point arrived just before halftime when off-balance Villa goalkeeper Orjan Nyland caught a curling free kick but was bundled back over the line by team mate Keinan Davis in a clumsy defensive mix-up. Referee Michael Oliver, pointing to his watch, looked to indicate that goalline technology had not verified the ball had crossed the line, despite what appeared to be clear evidence on TV replays. There was also no intervention from the Video Assistant Referee. Hawk-Eye issued a statement after the game saying the seven cameras in the stands around the goal area were obstructed by the keeper, defender and goalpost. “This level of occlusion has never been seen before in over 9,000 matches that the Hawk-Eye Goal Line Technology system has been in operation,” the company said, re-igniting the debate over technology in football. The visitors will feel hard done by but also had goalkeeper Dean Henderson to thank for securing a share of the points in a lively affair on a rainy evening, where both sides showed a lack of match practice. He made key saves in the second half, first to deny Davis and then push away a rasping shot from John McGinn on the hour mark as Villa, who lost 4-0 at Leicester City in their last game before the league was suspended on March 9, made six changes to their starting lineup. Yet sloppy defending, a characteristic of Villa's play this season, almost came back to haunt them when a poor pass was intercepted only for John Lundstram’s 70th-minute effort to be blocked. Neither side took advantage of the new rule allowing five substitutes, but Villa used four in another first for a league game in England. The game was also stripped of its usual pre-match routine as both sides attempted to keep their distance amid strict health protocols, taking to the field separately and not shaking hands before kickoff.

Sheffield United denied by tech error in 0-0 draw with Aston Villa

The father of Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has died after contracting the coronavirus, the English Premier League club announced late Wednesday.

Villa said 79-year-old Ron Smith, a lifelong fan of the Birmingham side, had been suffering from COVID-19 for four weeks.

"The Aston Villa family are saddened to announce that Ron Smith, the father of our current head coach Dean, has passed away at the age of 79," said a club statement.

"Ron, who had recently been living in a care home after being diagnosed with dementia six years ago, contracted coronavirus four weeks ago and after a short spell in hospital passed away with his family at his side.

"A lifelong supporter, Ron was a steward at Villa Park for many years and passed on his love of the club down to his children.

"As well as being a regular at home games, Ron was also there to witness that greatest of days in May 1982 when Villa lifted the European Cup in Rotterdam.

"The thoughts of everyone at the football club are currently with Dean and his family at this most distressing of times and we would kindly ask for the family's privacy to be respected."

Smith is not the only Premier League boss to lose a close relative to the virus, with COVID-19 also claiming the life of the 82-year-old mother of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola last month.

The father of Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has died after contracting the coronavirus, the English Premier League club announced late Wednesday. Villa said 79-year-old Ron Smith, a lifelong fan of the Birmingham side, had been suffering from COVID-19 for four weeks.

The father of Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has died after contracting the coronavirus, the English Premier League club announced late Wednesday. Villa said 79-year-old Ron Smith, a lifelong fan of the Birmingham side, had been suffering from COVID-19 for four weeks. "The Aston Villa family are saddened to announce that Ron Smith, the father of our current head coach Dean, has passed away at the age of 79," said a club statement. "Ron, who had recently been living in a care home after being diagnosed with dementia six years ago, contracted coronavirus four weeks ago and after a short spell in hospital passed away with his family at his side. "A lifelong supporter, Ron was a steward at Villa Park for many years and passed on his love of the club down to his children. "As well as being a regular at home games, Ron was also there to witness that greatest of days in May 1982 when Villa lifted the European Cup in Rotterdam. "The thoughts of everyone at the football club are currently with Dean and his family at this most distressing of times and we would kindly ask for the family's privacy to be respected." Smith is not the only Premier League boss to lose a close relative to the virus, with COVID-19 also claiming the life of the 82-year-old mother of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola last month.

Villa boss Smith's father dies from coronavirus - club

Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish posted a public apology on Monday for breaking UK government guidelines on social distancing as police opened an investigation into an incident in which a Range Rover crashed into parked cars.

Villa expressed their disappointment with Grealish and said the 24-year-old will be fined with the proceeds going to a children's hospital in Birmingham.

West Midlands Police said they were called on Sunday to an address in Solihull, near Birmingham, where the two parked cars suffered minor damage.

The force said the driver had left his details with a member of the public before leaving on foot.

"I just want to do a quick video message to say how deeply embarrassed I am about what has happened this weekend," Grealish said in a video posted on Twitter.

"I obviously just got a call off a friend asking to go round to his and stupidly agreed to do so. I don't want anyone to make the same mistake that I did, so I urge everyone to stay home and follow the rules and guidelines of what we are being asked to do."

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&nbsp;

The British government has introduced restrictions on citizens leaving their homes only to shop for food and medicine, essential travel for work and one form of exercise a day to help halt the spread of coronavirus.

"Aston Villa is deeply disappointed that one of our players ignored the government's guidance on staying at home during the Coronavirus crisis," Villa said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Club captain&nbsp;Jack Grealish&nbsp;has accepted that his decision to leave his house was wrong and entirely unnecessary. It breached the government guidelines which are clear and should be adhered to by everybody.&nbsp;

"The player will be disciplined and fined with the proceeds donated to The University Hospitals Charity in Birmingham."

Less than 24 hours before the incident, Grealish was part of a video appeal for people to stay at home during the lockdown.

"I hope everyone can accept my apology and we can move on from this," added Grealish. "Hopefully in the near future we can all be out enjoying ourselves again."

In a statement about the incident, West Midlands Police added: "Officers are investigating the circumstances and anyone with information has been asked to get in touch."

Grealish has been Villa's star performer on their return to the Premier League this season and was expected to earn a first call-up by England for friendlies against Denmark and Italy this month prior to football's shutdown due to COVID-19.

Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish posted a public apology on Monday for breaking UK government guidelines on social distancing as police opened an investigation into an incident in which a Range Rover crashed into parked cars.

Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish posted a public apology on Monday for breaking UK government guidelines on social distancing as police opened an investigation into an incident in which a Range Rover crashed into parked cars. Villa expressed their disappointment with Grealish and said the 24-year-old will be fined with the proceeds going to a children's hospital in Birmingham. West Midlands Police said they were called on Sunday to an address in Solihull, near Birmingham, where the two parked cars suffered minor damage. The force said the driver had left his details with a member of the public before leaving on foot. "I just want to do a quick video message to say how deeply embarrassed I am about what has happened this weekend," Grealish said in a video posted on Twitter. "I obviously just got a call off a friend asking to go round to his and stupidly agreed to do so. I don't want anyone to make the same mistake that I did, so I urge everyone to stay home and follow the rules and guidelines of what we are being asked to do." pic.twitter.com/XxoEt4yZNj — Jack Grealish (@JackGrealish) March 30, 2020 × The British government has introduced restrictions on citizens leaving their homes only to shop for food and medicine, essential travel for work and one form of exercise a day to help halt the spread of coronavirus. "Aston Villa is deeply disappointed that one of our players ignored the government's guidance on staying at home during the Coronavirus crisis," Villa said in a statement. "Club captain Jack Grealish has accepted that his decision to leave his house was wrong and entirely unnecessary. It breached the government guidelines which are clear and should be adhered to by everybody. "The player will be disciplined and fined with the proceeds donated to The University Hospitals Charity in Birmingham." Less than 24 hours before the incident, Grealish was part of a video appeal for people to stay at home during the lockdown. "I hope everyone can accept my apology and we can move on from this," added Grealish. "Hopefully in the near future we can all be out enjoying ourselves again." In a statement about the incident, West Midlands Police added: "Officers are investigating the circumstances and anyone with information has been asked to get in touch." Grealish has been Villa's star performer on their return to the Premier League this season and was expected to earn a first call-up by England for friendlies against Denmark and Italy this month prior to football's shutdown due to COVID-19.

Villa's Grealish apologises, fined for breaking isolation rules

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/funny-twitter-reactions-after-sergio-aguero-misses-penalty-against-tottenham-hotspur-in-champions-league-clash-209187">Sergio Aguero</a> became the most prolific foreign goalscorer in Premier League history with a record-breaking hat-trick as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-man-city-see-off-sheffield-united-but-var-questioned-again-270925">Manchester&nbsp;City</a>&nbsp;thrashed Aston Villa 6-1 to reclaim second place on Sunday.

The Argentine striker struck the third, fifth and sixth goals as&nbsp;City&nbsp;ran riot at Villa Park, taking his league tally to 177, two more than Frenchman Thierry Henry managed for Arsenal and joint-fourth on the all-time list alongside Frank Lampard.

Slick&nbsp;City's resounding victory, in which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/riyad-mahrez-lifts-manchester-city-back-to-premier-league-summit-200809">Riyad Mahrez </a>also scored twice and Gabriel Jesus once, meant they moved above <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irresistible-liverpool-thrash-leicester-270476">Leicester&nbsp;City</a>&nbsp;and trimmed Liverpool's lead to 14 points, although Liverpool has played a game less.

While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-go-16-points-clear-as-firmino-nets-winner-at-spurs-273678">Liverpool</a> looks uncatchable,&nbsp;City&nbsp;displayed the kind of devastating attacking football that makes them, on their day, the most eye-pleasing team in England.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-go-16-points-clear-as-firmino-nets-winner-at-spurs-273678">English Premier League: Liverpool continue dominance as Firmino nets winner at Spurs</a>

It was also a day for the 31-year-old Aguero, who signed for&nbsp;City&nbsp;in 2011, to confirm his status as one of the best imports ever to play in England's top flight.

In bagging a 12th Premier League hat-trick he surpassed the 11 of Alan Shearer with whom he had shared the record.

"Aguero is a legend and the legend rose tonight,"&nbsp;City&nbsp;manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-var-is-a-big-mess-says-guardiola-after-more-controversies-270921">Pep Guardiola</a> said. "I think he is one of the most incredible players I've seen in this league.

"The team is proud. We congratulated him in the locker room because to score this amount of goals and hat-tricks means you have done, for many years, a lot of good things. He has been consistent for many, many years."

Razor-sharp

While the day belonged to Aguero, it was Mahrez who put&nbsp;City&nbsp;in complete control with the opening two goals.

His dribble and shot caught out Villa keeper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/striker-less-aston-villa-hold-on-for-draw-at-leicester-273173">Orjan Nyland</a> at his near post after 18 minutes and the Algerian struck again from close range six minutes later after Villa debutant Danny Drinkwater was caught in possession.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/striker-less-aston-villa-hold-on-for-draw-at-leicester-273173">EFL Cup: Striker-less Aston Villa hold on for draw at Leicester</a>

With Villa ripe for the picking Aguero got in on the action in the 28th minute when he was given far too much time to smash a shot that flew through the hands of Nyland.

It was 4-0 on the stroke of halftime when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-kevin-de-bruyne-ruled-out-for-six-weeks-due-to-knee-injury-175146">Kevin De Bruyne</a> advanced down the right and delivered a superb pass that took out Villa's defence, allowing Jesus to tap in.

Villa had dropped into the relegation zone before kickoff after Watford's win at Bournemouth and their afternoon was to get worse in the second half.

A razor-sharp Aguero moved clear of Henry when he danced across the area to score right-footed in the 58th minute and he continued to torment a sorry home side by ramming home his third after 81 minutes.

Villa, who have fallen to third from bottom, did not manage a shot on target until they were awarded a stoppage-time penalty after lkay Gundogan tripped Trezeguet.

Anwar El Ghazi tucked it away with the last kick of the game but it barely raised a smile.

"It was a chastening experience," Villa manager Dean Smith said. "We know they are a top class team but some of the goals we have given away were dreadful... We are embarrassed by some of the goals we have conceded today."

Sergio Aguero became the most prolific foreign goalscorer in Premier League history with a record-breaking hat-trick as Manchester City thrashed Aston Villa 6-1 to reclaim second place on Sunday.

Sergio Aguero became the most prolific foreign goalscorer in Premier League history with a record-breaking hat-trick as Manchester City thrashed Aston Villa 6-1 to reclaim second place on Sunday. The Argentine striker struck the third, fifth and sixth goals as City ran riot at Villa Park, taking his league tally to 177, two more than Frenchman Thierry Henry managed for Arsenal and joint-fourth on the all-time list alongside Frank Lampard. Slick City's resounding victory, in which Riyad Mahrez also scored twice and Gabriel Jesus once, meant they moved above Leicester City and trimmed Liverpool's lead to 14 points, although Liverpool has played a game less. While Liverpool looks uncatchable, City displayed the kind of devastating attacking football that makes them, on their day, the most eye-pleasing team in England. Also read: English Premier League: Liverpool continue dominance as Firmino nets winner at Spurs It was also a day for the 31-year-old Aguero, who signed for City in 2011, to confirm his status as one of the best imports ever to play in England's top flight. In bagging a 12th Premier League hat-trick he surpassed the 11 of Alan Shearer with whom he had shared the record. "Aguero is a legend and the legend rose tonight," City manager Pep Guardiola said. "I think he is one of the most incredible players I've seen in this league. "The team is proud. We congratulated him in the locker room because to score this amount of goals and hat-tricks means you have done, for many years, a lot of good things. He has been consistent for many, many years." Razor-sharp While the day belonged to Aguero, it was Mahrez who put City in complete control with the opening two goals. His dribble and shot caught out Villa keeper Orjan Nyland at his near post after 18 minutes and the Algerian struck again from close range six minutes later after Villa debutant Danny Drinkwater was caught in possession. Also read: EFL Cup: Striker-less Aston Villa hold on for draw at Leicester With Villa ripe for the picking Aguero got in on the action in the 28th minute when he was given far too much time to smash a shot that flew through the hands of Nyland. It was 4-0 on the stroke of halftime when Kevin De Bruyne advanced down the right and delivered a superb pass that took out Villa's defence, allowing Jesus to tap in. Villa had dropped into the relegation zone before kickoff after Watford's win at Bournemouth and their afternoon was to get worse in the second half. A razor-sharp Aguero moved clear of Henry when he danced across the area to score right-footed in the 58th minute and he continued to torment a sorry home side by ramming home his third after 81 minutes. Villa, who have fallen to third from bottom, did not manage a shot on target until they were awarded a stoppage-time penalty after lkay Gundogan tripped Trezeguet. Anwar El Ghazi tucked it away with the last kick of the game but it barely raised a smile. "It was a chastening experience," Villa manager Dean Smith said. "We know they are a top class team but some of the goals we have given away were dreadful... We are embarrassed by some of the goals we have conceded today."

Manchester City thrash Villa with Sergio Aguero's record-breaking hat-trick

Lowly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Aston&nbsp;Villa</a>&nbsp;defied incessant pressure as they held out bravely for a 1-1 draw at Leicester City despite being unable to field a striker in their League Cup semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Freddy Guilbert put&nbsp;Villa&nbsp;ahead with their first shot of the game after 28 minutes and Leicester, second in the Premier League and hoping to reach their first cup final since 2000, needed a 74th-minute equaliser by Kelechi Iheanacho to force a draw.

The second leg is on January&nbsp;28,&nbsp;with the winners of the match meeting either Manchester City or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">Manchester United</a> in the final.

Leicester striker Jamie Vardy returned to the side after missing the previous three matches with a minor calf problem while Jonathan Kodjia's illness left&nbsp;Villa, 17th in the league, without a recognised forward.

"We haven't got a choice. That's where we are," said&nbsp;Aston&nbsp;Villa&nbsp;manager Dean Smith.

Ayoze Perez had a shot deflected wide and&nbsp;Villa&nbsp;goalkeeper Orjan Nyland denied Vardy with his knees as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irresistible-liverpool-thrash-leicester-270476">Leicester</a> seized the initiative but it was the visitors who went ahead.

A move started by Jack Grealish ended with Anwar El Ghazi crossing to the far post where Guilbert caught Ben Chilwell napping and volleyed home.

Villa&nbsp;nearly had another goal before halftime when Ezro Konsa headed onto the bar.

Leicester pressed forward relentlessly after the break but&nbsp;Villa&nbsp;appeared to be holding out comfortably until Hamza Choudhury stole the ball from Douglas Luiz and set up a break which ended with Vardy playing in Iheanacho and the Nigerian scored with a clinical finish.

Lowly Aston Villa defied incessant pressure as they held out bravely for a 1-1 draw at Leicester City despite being unable to field a striker in their League Cup semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Lowly Aston Villa defied incessant pressure as they held out bravely for a 1-1 draw at Leicester City despite being unable to field a striker in their League Cup semi-final first leg on Wednesday. Freddy Guilbert put Villa ahead with their first shot of the game after 28 minutes and Leicester, second in the Premier League and hoping to reach their first cup final since 2000, needed a 74th-minute equaliser by Kelechi Iheanacho to force a draw. The second leg is on January 28, with the winners of the match meeting either Manchester City or Manchester United in the final. Leicester striker Jamie Vardy returned to the side after missing the previous three matches with a minor calf problem while Jonathan Kodjia's illness left Villa, 17th in the league, without a recognised forward. "We haven't got a choice. That's where we are," said Aston Villa manager Dean Smith. Ayoze Perez had a shot deflected wide and Villa goalkeeper Orjan Nyland denied Vardy with his knees as Leicester seized the initiative but it was the visitors who went ahead. A move started by Jack Grealish ended with Anwar El Ghazi crossing to the far post where Guilbert caught Ben Chilwell napping and volleyed home. Villa nearly had another goal before halftime when Ezro Konsa headed onto the bar. Leicester pressed forward relentlessly after the break but Villa appeared to be holding out comfortably until Hamza Choudhury stole the ball from Douglas Luiz and set up a break which ended with Vardy playing in Iheanacho and the Nigerian scored with a clinical finish.

EFL Cup: Striker-less Aston Villa hold on for draw at Leicester

Aston Villa beat Liverpool's youngest-ever side 5-0 with a double by Jonathan Kodjia helping them into the League Cup semi-finals on a strange night at Villa Park on Tuesday.

With runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool playing in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-no-pressure-to-land-club-world-cup-crown-says-liverpools-klopp-261550">FIFA's Club World Cup</a> 24 hours later in Doha, they fielded a starting lineup consisting mainly of reserves and youth team players with an average age of 19.4, a club record.

While they acquitted themselves well against a more experienced Villa side, which showed 10 changes from the weekend Premier League defeat by Sheffield United, they were taught a harsh lesson in Liverpool's heaviest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-klopp-may-pull-liverpool-out-of-league-cup-over-fixture-pile-up-258925">League Cup defeat</a>.

The Merseyside club's senior players and manager Juergen Klopp, watching on TV in Qatar where they face Monterrey in the semis on Wednesday, would have been impressed over the way their team started with 16-year-old Harvey Elliott catching the eye.

But Villa took the lead in the 14th minute when Conor Hourihane's free-kick went through a crowded area and into the net with Kodjia initially claiming a touch.

Morgan Boyes, one of five Liverpool debutants to start, deflected Ahmed Elmohamady's free-kick over his own keeper Caoimhin Kelleher three minutes later before 30-year-old Kodjia ran through on his own to slot home the third goal in the 37th.

Villa's Ivory Coast striker Kodjia made it 4-0 from close range just before halftime to end the tie as a contest, although Liverpool carved out several good chances after the break with some neat build-up play.

Villa added a fifth goal in stoppage time with record signing Wesley finishing clinically, having been sent clear by Trezeguet after coming off the bench.

Hollow victory&nbsp;

Villa have reached the semi-finals for the first time since the 2012-13 season but the victory felt hollow.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Liverpool</a> have won the League Cup a record eight times but sacrificed the chance of making it nine as they focused on the game in Doha against Mexican club Monterrey.

Questions will be asked about their decision to involve no senior players and the scheduling but despite the scoreline, Liverpool had more shots and more possession than Villa.

Liverpool's Under-23 manager Neil Critchley, in charge fo the team in Klopp's absence, said his players, who had only 16 first-team appearances between them, had been magnificent.

"We were fantastic from the start, we had a couple of chances from the first whistle," he said.

"We were really unfortunate to concede and find ourselves 2-0 down. It was an incredible night and no one wanted it to end. The support we had was unbelievable.

"Some of them showed the potential to one day play for us, or in the Premier League. They will know it was just part of their journey. My overwhelming feeling was of immense pride."

The other three quarter-finals take place on Wednesday with holders Manchester City at third-tier Oxford United, Manchester United hosting fourth-tier Colchester United and Everton at home to Leicester City.

Aston Villa beat Liverpool's youngest-ever side 5-0 with a double by Jonathan Kodjia helping them into the League Cup semi-finals on a strange night at Villa Park on Tuesday.

Aston Villa beat Liverpool's youngest-ever side 5-0 with a double by Jonathan Kodjia helping them into the League Cup semi-finals on a strange night at Villa Park on Tuesday. With runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool playing in FIFA's Club World Cup 24 hours later in Doha, they fielded a starting lineup consisting mainly of reserves and youth team players with an average age of 19.4, a club record. While they acquitted themselves well against a more experienced Villa side, which showed 10 changes from the weekend Premier League defeat by Sheffield United, they were taught a harsh lesson in Liverpool's heaviest League Cup defeat. The Merseyside club's senior players and manager Juergen Klopp, watching on TV in Qatar where they face Monterrey in the semis on Wednesday, would have been impressed over the way their team started with 16-year-old Harvey Elliott catching the eye. But Villa took the lead in the 14th minute when Conor Hourihane's free-kick went through a crowded area and into the net with Kodjia initially claiming a touch. Morgan Boyes, one of five Liverpool debutants to start, deflected Ahmed Elmohamady's free-kick over his own keeper Caoimhin Kelleher three minutes later before 30-year-old Kodjia ran through on his own to slot home the third goal in the 37th. Villa's Ivory Coast striker Kodjia made it 4-0 from close range just before halftime to end the tie as a contest, although Liverpool carved out several good chances after the break with some neat build-up play. Villa added a fifth goal in stoppage time with record signing Wesley finishing clinically, having been sent clear by Trezeguet after coming off the bench. Hollow victory Villa have reached the semi-finals for the first time since the 2012-13 season but the victory felt hollow. Liverpool have won the League Cup a record eight times but sacrificed the chance of making it nine as they focused on the game in Doha against Mexican club Monterrey. Questions will be asked about their decision to involve no senior players and the scheduling but despite the scoreline, Liverpool had more shots and more possession than Villa. Liverpool's Under-23 manager Neil Critchley, in charge fo the team in Klopp's absence, said his players, who had only 16 first-team appearances between them, had been magnificent. "We were fantastic from the start, we had a couple of chances from the first whistle," he said. "We were really unfortunate to concede and find ourselves 2-0 down. It was an incredible night and no one wanted it to end. The support we had was unbelievable. "Some of them showed the potential to one day play for us, or in the Premier League. They will know it was just part of their journey. My overwhelming feeling was of immense pride." The other three quarter-finals take place on Wednesday with holders Manchester City at third-tier Oxford United, Manchester United hosting fourth-tier Colchester United and Everton at home to Leicester City.

Aston Villa beat Liverpool's kids to reach League Cup semis

Leicester City set a club record of eight successive top-flight wins after two goals from Jamie Vardy helped them to an impressive 4-1 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-resilient-chelsea-bounce-back-to-beat-manchester-city-2-1-267121">Premier League</a> victory at Aston Villa on Sunday.

Kelechi Iheanacho and Jonny Evans were also on target for Leicester, who served up a performance akin to those which produced a memorable title run in 2015-16 as they missed several chances to win by a bigger margin.

The result left the Foxes second in the standings on 38 points from 16 games, eight adrift of runaway <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/united-win-feisty-manchester-derby-as-liverpool-secure-christmas-no1-266926">leaders Liverpool</a> and six ahead of third-placed champions Manchester City, while Villa slipped to 17th on 15 points.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-leicester-will-not-sell-players-in-january-says-rodgers-263858">Leicester </a>manager Brendan Rodgers heaped praise on his players.

"I thought they were amazing, it is a historical day for the club and the performance warranted that," he was quoted as saying by the BBC.

"We scored all types of goals today and kept going to the end and tried to keep scoring goals."

The league's top scorer Vardy fired Leicester ahead with his 15th goal of the season in the 20th minute when he shook off Ezri Konsa and slotted the ball in after rounding goalkeeper Tom Heaton with a sublime first touch.

Iheanacho made it 2-0 with a deft finish from a fizzing low cross by James Maddison before Jack Grealish pulled one back for Villa on the stroke of halftime, burying a powerful shot from 12 metres past goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.

Centre back Evans restored Leicester's two-goal advantage with a looping header from 10 metres shortly after the break, rising above his marker to meet a Maddison corner.

The effervescent Maddison, who tormented the home team's defence all afternoon, shaved the post with a fine shot from the edge of the penalty area in the 67th minute as Leicester continued to dominate.

Vardy put the icing on the cake for the rampant visitors in the 76th minute after he raced clear of Matt Targett from the halfway line and drove the ball past Heaton into the bottom right corner.

Evans, who won three Premier League titles with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/united-win-feisty-manchester-derby-as-liverpool-secure-christmas-no1-266926">Manchester United</a>, was upbeat about Leicester's chances of finishing in the top four.

"We are up there and it shows we are playing well," the 31-year-old Northern Ireland defender told Sky Sports.

"Our performance was good. It is nice people are talking about us, we're enjoying it and there's great spirit in the club."

Leicester City set a club record of eight successive top-flight wins after two goals from Jamie Vardy helped them to an impressive 4-1 Premier League victory at Aston Villa on Sunday.

Leicester City set a club record of eight successive top-flight wins after two goals from Jamie Vardy helped them to an impressive 4-1 Premier League victory at Aston Villa on Sunday. Kelechi Iheanacho and Jonny Evans were also on target for Leicester, who served up a performance akin to those which produced a memorable title run in 2015-16 as they missed several chances to win by a bigger margin. The result left the Foxes second in the standings on 38 points from 16 games, eight adrift of runaway leaders Liverpool and six ahead of third-placed champions Manchester City, while Villa slipped to 17th on 15 points. Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers heaped praise on his players. "I thought they were amazing, it is a historical day for the club and the performance warranted that," he was quoted as saying by the BBC. "We scored all types of goals today and kept going to the end and tried to keep scoring goals." The league's top scorer Vardy fired Leicester ahead with his 15th goal of the season in the 20th minute when he shook off Ezri Konsa and slotted the ball in after rounding goalkeeper Tom Heaton with a sublime first touch. Iheanacho made it 2-0 with a deft finish from a fizzing low cross by James Maddison before Jack Grealish pulled one back for Villa on the stroke of halftime, burying a powerful shot from 12 metres past goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. Centre back Evans restored Leicester's two-goal advantage with a looping header from 10 metres shortly after the break, rising above his marker to meet a Maddison corner. The effervescent Maddison, who tormented the home team's defence all afternoon, shaved the post with a fine shot from the edge of the penalty area in the 67th minute as Leicester continued to dominate. Vardy put the icing on the cake for the rampant visitors in the 76th minute after he raced clear of Matt Targett from the halfway line and drove the ball past Heaton into the bottom right corner. Evans, who won three Premier League titles with Manchester United, was upbeat about Leicester's chances of finishing in the top four. "We are up there and it shows we are playing well," the 31-year-old Northern Ireland defender told Sky Sports. "Our performance was good. It is nice people are talking about us, we're enjoying it and there's great spirit in the club."

Premier League: Leicester break club record with 4-1 win at Villa

Tammy Abraham scored a goal and set up another on his return from injury as Chelsea beat Aston Villa 2-1 on Wednesday to put their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-enjoy-derby-demolition-as-it-sets-new-club-record-leicester-still-chasing-266306">Premier League</a> campaign back on track after two straight defeats.

Abraham headed home from close range for his 11th league goal of the season in the 24th minute after a lofted cross by right back Reece James, another of the home-grown players at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-thwarted-by-valencia-in-champions-league-thriller-264990">Chelsea</a> who have flourished under coach Frank Lampard.

Villa equalised with their first real chance in the 41st minute when Egyptian Trezeguet headed a cross from his compatriot Ahmed El Mohamady down on to his own foot and the ball crossed the line.

Chelsea regained the lead in style three minutes into the second half when Abraham - who played for Villa last season on loan - chested a cross by Willian invitingly for fellow academy graduate Mason Mount to volley home.

Abraham, 22, missed Chelsea's 1-0 home defeat by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-makes-instant-impact-as-tottenham-defeat-west-ham-264133">West Ham United</a> due to injury and Lampard heaped praise on the forward whose form has earned him a call-up for England.

"He’s showing his all-round game, he stretches defences, he starts our press," Lampard said. "He's a personality that has grown in our dressing room every day with his enthusiasm and his will to win, and of course with players on such a good run, when they come out of the team you can miss them."

Chelsea went in search of a third goal and Willian came closest to getting it when the Brazilian's free kick was touched onto a post by Villa goalkeeper Tom Heaton. Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga denied Ezri Konsa Ngoyo a late equaliser.

The result left Chelsea in fourth place, six points above fifth-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers. Aston Villa are 15th and only one point clear of the relegation area.

Villa coach Dean Smith said his team were second best to Chelsea and started both halves on the back foot unlike in their previous game when they battled to a 2-2 draw at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-rashford-double-as-united-spoil-mourinhos-return-266316">Manchester United</a>.

"I feel that we can be as good as teams like Chelsea. We have got to be more consistent in our play to do that," he said. "Tonight we weren’t as consistent as we were on Sunday against Manchester United."

Former Chelsea captain John Terry, now Villa's assistant head coach, stepped on to the pitch after the match to applause from the home fans. The former England captain played 717 times for Chelsea.

Tammy Abraham scored a goal and set up another on his return from injury as Chelsea beat Aston Villa 2-1 on Wednesday to put their Premier League campaign back on track after two straight defeats.

Tammy Abraham scored a goal and set up another on his return from injury as Chelsea beat Aston Villa 2-1 on Wednesday to put their Premier League campaign back on track after two straight defeats. Abraham headed home from close range for his 11th league goal of the season in the 24th minute after a lofted cross by right back Reece James, another of the home-grown players at Chelsea who have flourished under coach Frank Lampard. Villa equalised with their first real chance in the 41st minute when Egyptian Trezeguet headed a cross from his compatriot Ahmed El Mohamady down on to his own foot and the ball crossed the line. Chelsea regained the lead in style three minutes into the second half when Abraham - who played for Villa last season on loan - chested a cross by Willian invitingly for fellow academy graduate Mason Mount to volley home. Abraham, 22, missed Chelsea's 1-0 home defeat by West Ham United due to injury and Lampard heaped praise on the forward whose form has earned him a call-up for England. "He’s showing his all-round game, he stretches defences, he starts our press," Lampard said. "He's a personality that has grown in our dressing room every day with his enthusiasm and his will to win, and of course with players on such a good run, when they come out of the team you can miss them." Chelsea went in search of a third goal and Willian came closest to getting it when the Brazilian's free kick was touched onto a post by Villa goalkeeper Tom Heaton. Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga denied Ezri Konsa Ngoyo a late equaliser. The result left Chelsea in fourth place, six points above fifth-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers. Aston Villa are 15th and only one point clear of the relegation area. Villa coach Dean Smith said his team were second best to Chelsea and started both halves on the back foot unlike in their previous game when they battled to a 2-2 draw at Manchester United. "I feel that we can be as good as teams like Chelsea. We have got to be more consistent in our play to do that," he said. "Tonight we weren’t as consistent as we were on Sunday against Manchester United." Former Chelsea captain John Terry, now Villa's assistant head coach, stepped on to the pitch after the match to applause from the home fans. The former England captain played 717 times for Chelsea.

Premier League: Abraham return helps Chelsea beat Villa

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer suffered another frustrating afternoon as his team were held to a 2-2 draw at home to lowly Aston Villa at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer suffered another frustrating afternoon as his team were held to a 2-2 draw at home to lowly Aston Villa at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday. United came back through an own goal and a Victor Lindelof header to lead after falling behind to an 11th-minute Jack Grealish goal but had to settle for a point that leaves them in ninth place, 22 points adrift of Liverpool after 14 games. The club have won just 18 points in the Premier League this season, their fewest after 14 games of a top-flight campaign since 1988-89. Solskjaer's side now face two big tests with their former manager Jose Mourinho returning with Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday before the Manchester derby at the Etihad on Saturday. "First half today wasn't good enough, their first goal knocked us emotionally, we didn't compete until halftime," said Solskjaer. "As a club we don't like to be in this position but that's the reality. Wednesday we have a big game, Saturday, these boys are looking forward to every game," he added. United fans will be far from confident of positive results in those games after another poor display from a team lacking authority and quality in midfield against a Villa side inspired by the creativity of Grealish. After a wide-open start to the game, Grealish fired Villa ahead, cutting in from the left and expertly curling the ball into the far, top corner. Villa substitute Trezeguet had the ball in the net in the 29th minute but his effort was ruled out for offside and three minutes before the break United got a barely deserved equaliser. A short corner led to Andreas Pereira floating in a deep cross which Marcus Rashford rose well to head against the post with the ball bouncing in off helpless Villa keeper Tom Heaton in the 42nd minute. Ambitious Villa Villa continued to play with ambition after the break and Grealish could have added a second goal but his outstretched foot turned a Trezeguet ball just wide of the post. It was another corner routine which led to United taking the lead after 64 minutes; this time Fred's cross was inadvertently headed to the back post by Villa striker Wesley and United's Swedish defender Lindelof nodded home. The lead last only two minutes before Villa got back on level terms, the impressive Matt Targett chipping the ball into the box to an unmarked Tyrone Mings who volleyed home. While the defender looked offside VAR ruled that it was valid, giving the centre-half his first Premier League goal. United pushed forward in response but lacked the finesse to open up the Villa defence and their skipper Harry Maguire admitted the performance had not been good enough. "As a team we are improving but we want to improve a lot more. To not win games at home is disappointing," he said. "We huffed and puffed but we need to do better and Wednesday (against Spurs) gives us a great opportunity to put that right. "We were poor after their first goal. It knocked us and we were edgy and nervous. To concede straight away after going in front, it's disappointing," added the England international. Villa boss Dean Smith hailed Grealish's performance, saying "everything that was good from us came through him", though he added that the midfielder would find it hard to forget his missed chance. "He knows more than anybody that nine times out of 10 he scores that. He'll be pleased because of his goal but he won't sleep because of that miss," he said.

More frustration for Solskjaer as Manchester United held by Villa

Wolverhampton Wanderers shrugged off their midweek <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-united-brush-partizan-aside-to-reach-last-32-260704">Europa League</a> exertions to comfortably beat Aston Villa 2-1 in Sunday's Midlands derby with goals by Ruben Neves and Raul Jimenez.

After a slow start to the season, and despite already playing 24 games, Wolves are gathering momentum and a comfortable win lifted them to eighth in the Premier League.

Nuno Espirito Santo's side are unbeaten in the league since September&nbsp;14 and enter the international break in high spirits.

"I'm happy with the performance. We played really good. When you produce so many good things, you want more (goals)," he said. "We always have a threat on the break."

Villa, on the other hand, remain one place above the bottom three after a difficult afternoon that began when they had to replace injured keeper Jed Steer to injury after five minutes.

With first-choice keeper Tom Heaton missing it meant a debut for Orjan Nyland in the heat of a local derby.

Wolves dominated and the only surprise was it took them until nearly halftime to go ahead.

Villa's defence switched off from a free kick and Joao Moutinho pulled the ball back for the unmarked Neves to power an unstoppable shot inside the right-hand post.

Another injury for Villa led to left back Matt Targett being replaced before the interval but the visitors showed more endeavour after the break to at least stay in the game.

Wolves should have been well clear with Adama Traore's thunderous drive smashing against the crossbar, while Jimenez and Diogo Jota also missed good opportunities.

Villa threatened to equalise on the odd occasions, once when Wesley curled a shot wide, but Wolves effectively sealed the points when Jimenez fired into the corner after good work by the dangerous Traore, a former Villa player.

There was some consolation for Villa when Trezeguet halved the deficit in stoppage time but it was too late.

Wolves's first Premier League win over Villa for eight years lifted them to 16 points from 12 games while Villa remain fourth from bottom with 11 points.

Villa manager Dean Smith did not use the injuries as excuses, saying his side failed to match Wolves' desire.

"That's as bad a first 45 minutes I've had since Wigan away last year. Very poor, didn't start," he said.

"It appeared the game was bigger for them than it was for us, we didn't win any balls, duels, didn't pass it well.

"The best thing I got out of the first half was it was only 1-0 at halftime."

Wolverhampton Wanderers shrugged off their midweek Europa League exertions to comfortably beat Aston Villa 2-1 in Sunday's Midlands derby with goals by Ruben Neves and Raul Jimenez.

Wolverhampton Wanderers shrugged off their midweek Europa League exertions to comfortably beat Aston Villa 2-1 in Sunday's Midlands derby with goals by Ruben Neves and Raul Jimenez. After a slow start to the season, and despite already playing 24 games, Wolves are gathering momentum and a comfortable win lifted them to eighth in the Premier League. Nuno Espirito Santo's side are unbeaten in the league since September 14 and enter the international break in high spirits. "I'm happy with the performance. We played really good. When you produce so many good things, you want more (goals)," he said. "We always have a threat on the break." Villa, on the other hand, remain one place above the bottom three after a difficult afternoon that began when they had to replace injured keeper Jed Steer to injury after five minutes. With first-choice keeper Tom Heaton missing it meant a debut for Orjan Nyland in the heat of a local derby. Wolves dominated and the only surprise was it took them until nearly halftime to go ahead. Villa's defence switched off from a free kick and Joao Moutinho pulled the ball back for the unmarked Neves to power an unstoppable shot inside the right-hand post. Another injury for Villa led to left back Matt Targett being replaced before the interval but the visitors showed more endeavour after the break to at least stay in the game. Wolves should have been well clear with Adama Traore's thunderous drive smashing against the crossbar, while Jimenez and Diogo Jota also missed good opportunities. Villa threatened to equalise on the odd occasions, once when Wesley curled a shot wide, but Wolves effectively sealed the points when Jimenez fired into the corner after good work by the dangerous Traore, a former Villa player. There was some consolation for Villa when Trezeguet halved the deficit in stoppage time but it was too late. Wolves's first Premier League win over Villa for eight years lifted them to 16 points from 12 games while Villa remain fourth from bottom with 11 points. Villa manager Dean Smith did not use the injuries as excuses, saying his side failed to match Wolves' desire. "That's as bad a first 45 minutes I've had since Wigan away last year. Very poor, didn't start," he said. "It appeared the game was bigger for them than it was for us, we didn't win any balls, duels, didn't pass it well. "The best thing I got out of the first half was it was only 1-0 at halftime."

Premier League: Wolves beat Villa to move into top eight

&nbsp;England have called up Sheffield United goalkeeper Dean Henderson for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against Montenegro and Kosovo after Aston Villa's Tom Heaton pulled out with injury, the FA said on Sunday.

Heaton sustained a calf injury in training on Saturday which prevented him playing in Sunday's 2-1 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">Premier League</a> defeat at local rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers, with Jed Steer replacing him in goal.

Henderson, on loan from Manchester United, leads the English top flight with five clean sheets this season.

Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley has also been ruled out through injury but England manager Gareth Southgate did not name a replacement. Barkley has been sidelined since October&nbsp;19 after suffering an ankle problem against Newcastle United.

England face Montenegro at Wembley on Thursday in the country's 1,000th international fixture, before visiting Kosovo on November&nbsp;17. They need one point from their remaining games to guarantee their place in next year's finals.

England have called up Sheffield United goalkeeper Dean Henderson for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against Montenegro and Kosovo after Aston Villa's Tom Heaton pulled out with injury, the FA said on Sunday.

England have called up Sheffield United goalkeeper Dean Henderson for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against Montenegro and Kosovo after Aston Villa's Tom Heaton pulled out with injury, the FA said on Sunday. Heaton sustained a calf injury in training on Saturday which prevented him playing in Sunday's 2-1 Premier League defeat at local rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers, with Jed Steer replacing him in goal. Henderson, on loan from Manchester United, leads the English top flight with five clean sheets this season. Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley has also been ruled out through injury but England manager Gareth Southgate did not name a replacement. Barkley has been sidelined since October 19 after suffering an ankle problem against Newcastle United. England face Montenegro at Wembley on Thursday in the country's 1,000th international fixture, before visiting Kosovo on November 17. They need one point from their remaining games to guarantee their place in next year's finals.

Football: England bring in keeper Henderson for injured Heaton, Barkley out

Liverpool manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-klopp-may-pull-liverpool-out-of-league-cup-over-fixture-pile-up-258925">Juergen Klopp</a> said it was too soon to decide exactly how his team will play two games in 24 hours in England and Qatar but it was time to address the regular fixture pile-ups facing top clubs.

Premier League leaders and European champions Liverpool plan to field two different squads in the League Cup and FIFA's Club World Cup in the space of 24 hours in December due to a lack of available dates to postpone the domestic match.

Liverpool's League Cup quarter-final against Aston Villa is set to be played on December&nbsp;17,&nbsp;the week they travel to Qatar for the Club World Cup where they play their first match on December&nbsp;18.

It is not yet clear how Liverpool will split their squad and whether Klopp will be present at both games.

"We asked Aston Villa if they could come to Qatar and we could play the game there," joked Klopp when asked about the situation after his team's 2-1 win over Genk in the Champions League on Tuesday.

"We don't know exactly how we do it, we have an idea but its too early to speak about it. We had to make a decision, we made that decision because all the other alternatives were more problems than solutions and didn’t work out.

"We said this way we can do as good as is possible. In the next couple of weeks we will decide exactly how it will look," he said.

Asked if the club had faced pressure from FIFA and the English Football League (EFL) over the situation, Klopp said: "Kind of. You want to be really in trouble with FIFA? I’m not sure. You want to be really in trouble with the EFL, probably not. We respect the competitions."

The German said his main issue with the League Cup was playing two-legged semi-finals at a busy time in the campaign.

"I don’t understand that and I don’t like it. With the rest it is a nice competition," he said.

"The Club World Cup you play only if you win the Champions League and that doesn’t happen in your life five million times, you take the opportunity. Is it the best time of the year? Nope. Are we anyway pretty busy? Yep. But we go there, we try to play all the games we have, with all that we have," he said.

Klopp, who guided Liverpool to the Champions League title last season, said it was wrong that competitions were relying on certain teams going out in order to keep the fixtures in order.

"You cannot work like this that you hope that somebody goes out and then everything is fine," he said.

"I don’t want to cancel competitions, I am from Germany, why would I want to cancel English competitions? But it should still be possible to talk about the problems and that is what I did. If some people don’t like that – I cannot change.

"The problems are obvious. Every year we do the same thing – and some people find it funny that 'Look at that they have to play five games in three days, let's see how they do that?'”

"We cannot carry on like this, come on, that is why I asked to sit down at a table because at one point we have to find a solution, the solutions so far sound to me more like another problem."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said it was too soon to decide exactly how his team will play two games in 24 hours in England and Qatar but it was time to address the regular fixture pile-ups facing top clubs.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said it was too soon to decide exactly how his team will play two games in 24 hours in England and Qatar but it was time to address the regular fixture pile-ups facing top clubs. Premier League leaders and European champions Liverpool plan to field two different squads in the League Cup and FIFA's Club World Cup in the space of 24 hours in December due to a lack of available dates to postpone the domestic match. Liverpool's League Cup quarter-final against Aston Villa is set to be played on December 17, the week they travel to Qatar for the Club World Cup where they play their first match on December 18. It is not yet clear how Liverpool will split their squad and whether Klopp will be present at both games. "We asked Aston Villa if they could come to Qatar and we could play the game there," joked Klopp when asked about the situation after his team's 2-1 win over Genk in the Champions League on Tuesday. "We don't know exactly how we do it, we have an idea but its too early to speak about it. We had to make a decision, we made that decision because all the other alternatives were more problems than solutions and didn’t work out. "We said this way we can do as good as is possible. In the next couple of weeks we will decide exactly how it will look," he said. Asked if the club had faced pressure from FIFA and the English Football League (EFL) over the situation, Klopp said: "Kind of. You want to be really in trouble with FIFA? I’m not sure. You want to be really in trouble with the EFL, probably not. We respect the competitions." The German said his main issue with the League Cup was playing two-legged semi-finals at a busy time in the campaign. "I don’t understand that and I don’t like it. With the rest it is a nice competition," he said. "The Club World Cup you play only if you win the Champions League and that doesn’t happen in your life five million times, you take the opportunity. Is it the best time of the year? Nope. Are we anyway pretty busy? Yep. But we go there, we try to play all the games we have, with all that we have," he said. Klopp, who guided Liverpool to the Champions League title last season, said it was wrong that competitions were relying on certain teams going out in order to keep the fixtures in order. "You cannot work like this that you hope that somebody goes out and then everything is fine," he said. "I don’t want to cancel competitions, I am from Germany, why would I want to cancel English competitions? But it should still be possible to talk about the problems and that is what I did. If some people don’t like that – I cannot change. "The problems are obvious. Every year we do the same thing – and some people find it funny that 'Look at that they have to play five games in three days, let's see how they do that?'” "We cannot carry on like this, come on, that is why I asked to sit down at a table because at one point we have to find a solution, the solutions so far sound to me more like another problem."

Football: Liverpool's Klopp unsure how he will approach two games in 24 hours

The passionate debate over Video Assistant Referee (VAR) reviews in the Premier League took a surreal turn on Saturday when Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino's armpit was ruled offside.

Firmino's 28th-minute shot would have been an equaliser for Liverpool, who were trailing 1-0 to Aston Villa at the time, but a linesman ruled him offside and VAR confirmed that.

"The red line signifies Firmino was aligned to his armpit, which was marginally ahead of the last Villa defender," the Premier League tweeted by way of explanation above a photo with a line perpendicular to the ground going into the Brazilian's armpit.

Liverpool might have been furious at the ruling - had they not scored two late goals to snatch victory.

"We won 2-1, it’s now not that serious," Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said, adding that his analyst had shown him the incident after the game and he did not see an infraction.

"Sometimes it’s in your favour, and sometimes it’s against you. That's how it is. We have to make sure the new system helps the game and not confuses, that's all."

Villa manager Dean Smith said he thought Firmino was hard done by. "They’ve had the disallowed goal in the first half which I thought was a goal ... We’ve had gnat’s hair goals ruled against us ourselves (in past games)."

The passionate debate over Video Assistant Referee (VAR) reviews in the Premier League took a surreal turn on Saturday when Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino's armpit was ruled offside.

The passionate debate over Video Assistant Referee (VAR) reviews in the Premier League took a surreal turn on Saturday when Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino's armpit was ruled offside. Firmino's 28th-minute shot would have been an equaliser for Liverpool, who were trailing 1-0 to Aston Villa at the time, but a linesman ruled him offside and VAR confirmed that. "The red line signifies Firmino was aligned to his armpit, which was marginally ahead of the last Villa defender," the Premier League tweeted by way of explanation above a photo with a line perpendicular to the ground going into the Brazilian's armpit. Liverpool might have been furious at the ruling - had they not scored two late goals to snatch victory. "We won 2-1, it’s now not that serious," Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said, adding that his analyst had shown him the incident after the game and he did not see an infraction. "Sometimes it’s in your favour, and sometimes it’s against you. That's how it is. We have to make sure the new system helps the game and not confuses, that's all." Villa manager Dean Smith said he thought Firmino was hard done by. "They’ve had the disallowed goal in the first half which I thought was a goal ... We’ve had gnat’s hair goals ruled against us ourselves (in past games)."

Roberto Firmino's 'offside armpit' stirs VAR debate

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