Premier League leaders Liverpool may have got some late luck against Aston Villa and must improve, but still merited their latest comeback, elated manager Juergen Klopp said on Saturday.

Klopp's table-topping side were staring at their first league defeat in 10 months until the 87th minute of their game at Villa Park, but snatched a last-gasp victory thanks to headers from Andy Robertson and Sadio Mane.

"We still have to learn, we still have to improve, we do, we will, I know that," Klopp told reporters after celebrating on the pitch at Villa Park with his relieved players.

"And sometimes you need to get knocks ... But at the end, in the moment, so far, we could sort it, most of the time. Yes of course when you score these kind of goals, it’s lucky but it’s not that we didn’t deserve to win the game."

Asked about his emotions, after Villa surprisingly took the game to Liverpool and could have scored within 60 seconds before they did in the 21st minute, Klopp said he has a single focus.

"I never thought a second about 'did we lose already?' or 'can we win?' We just have to try to score, that’s everything.

"It’s not that I think because now we have a couple of comebacks today is another comeback," said Klopp, whose team also went a goal down to Tottenham Hotspur last weekend before winning 2-1.

"We know it’s possible, everybody knows it’s possible, but we really know it, and the boys tried it ... That’s football ... We don’t have any alternatives, what can we do?"

Villa manager Dean Smith thought his team also deserved something from the game.

"It wasn’t one-way traffic, we’ve had opportunities to make it two-nil," he said. "I’m very proud of their performance … I think we’re a very competitive team at this level … Today we’ve gone toe-to-toe.

"I'm proud but also hurt because we deserved something from that game. We’ve got to take that hurt into the next game and learn from it."

&nbsp;

Premier League leaders Liverpool may have got some late luck against Aston Villa and must improve, but still merited their latest comeback, elated manager Juergen Klopp said on Saturday.

Premier League leaders Liverpool may have got some late luck against Aston Villa and must improve, but still merited their latest comeback, elated manager Juergen Klopp said on Saturday. Klopp's table-topping side were staring at their first league defeat in 10 months until the 87th minute of their game at Villa Park, but snatched a last-gasp victory thanks to headers from Andy Robertson and Sadio Mane. "We still have to learn, we still have to improve, we do, we will, I know that," Klopp told reporters after celebrating on the pitch at Villa Park with his relieved players. "And sometimes you need to get knocks ... But at the end, in the moment, so far, we could sort it, most of the time. Yes of course when you score these kind of goals, it’s lucky but it’s not that we didn’t deserve to win the game." Asked about his emotions, after Villa surprisingly took the game to Liverpool and could have scored within 60 seconds before they did in the 21st minute, Klopp said he has a single focus. "I never thought a second about 'did we lose already?' or 'can we win?' We just have to try to score, that’s everything. "It’s not that I think because now we have a couple of comebacks today is another comeback," said Klopp, whose team also went a goal down to Tottenham Hotspur last weekend before winning 2-1. "We know it’s possible, everybody knows it’s possible, but we really know it, and the boys tried it ... That’s football ... We don’t have any alternatives, what can we do?" Villa manager Dean Smith thought his team also deserved something from the game. "It wasn’t one-way traffic, we’ve had opportunities to make it two-nil," he said. "I’m very proud of their performance … I think we’re a very competitive team at this level … Today we’ve gone toe-to-toe. "I'm proud but also hurt because we deserved something from that game. We’ve got to take that hurt into the next game and learn from it."

Liverpool got lucky but still deserved to win: Juergen Klopp

Prince William known for being a sports enthusiast was present to cheer his favourite soccer team, the Birmingham club Aston Villa along with his family.&nbsp; 
 
The sporting event at which Duke of Cambridge was with Kate Middleton and two eldest kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte became more delighted with the little prince`s presence as he wore an Aston Villa shirt.

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You know how to pick your <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AVFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AVFC</a> games, Your Royal Highness. 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> <a href="https://t.co/BQ4Eg0KGY8">pic.twitter.com/BQ4Eg0KGY8</a>
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George seemed happy and super enthusiastic throughout the match and punched the air when the team scored, reported news agency. 
 
"You know how to pick your #AVFC games, Your Royal Highness. #PL" read a tweet posted on Aston Villa's Twitter page, alongside a photo of the family.

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Our Prince George very excited over a goal scored by Aston Villa this afternoon. 
 
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are watching Villa away with Prince George and Princess Charlotte! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Royal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Royal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheCambridges?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheCambridges</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CambridgeFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CambridgeFamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AVFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AVFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrinceGeorge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrinceGeorge</a> <a href="https://t.co/1BUgY8XNFp">pic.twitter.com/1BUgY8XNFp</a>
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The royal family sat in the back of what appeared to be a VIP area with other fans. The family outing came after William and Kate's five-day Pakistan visit.

Prince William known for being a sports enthusiast was present to cheer his favourite soccer team, the Birmingham club Aston Villa along with his family. The sporting event at which Duke of Cambridge was with Kate Middleton and two eldest kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte became more delighted with the little prince`s presence as he wore an Aston Villa shirt.

Prince William known for being a sports enthusiast was present to cheer his favourite soccer team, the Birmingham club Aston Villa along with his family. The sporting event at which Duke of Cambridge was with Kate Middleton and two eldest kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte became more delighted with the little prince`s presence as he wore an Aston Villa shirt. You know how to pick your #AVFC games, Your Royal Highness. 😉#PL pic.twitter.com/BQ4Eg0KGY8 — Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) October 5, 2019 × George seemed happy and super enthusiastic throughout the match and punched the air when the team scored, reported news agency. "You know how to pick your #AVFC games, Your Royal Highness. #PL" read a tweet posted on Aston Villa's Twitter page, alongside a photo of the family. Our Prince George very excited over a goal scored by Aston Villa this afternoon. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are watching Villa away with Prince George and Princess Charlotte! #Royal #TheCambridges #CambridgeFamily #AVFC #PrinceGeorge pic.twitter.com/1BUgY8XNFp — Royal Family (@Royal_FamilyUK) October 5, 2019 × The royal family sat in the back of what appeared to be a VIP area with other fans. The family outing came after William and Kate's five-day Pakistan visit.

Prince George cheers for favourite soccer team on family outing

Promoted Aston Villa earned their first Premier League points of the season with a 2-0 win over Everton thanks to goals from Wesley and Anwar El Ghazi at Villa Park on Friday.

Villa's Brazilian striker Wesley, signed in the close season for a club-record £22 million ($27.03 million), put them ahead in the 21st minute with a clinical finish after a perfectly timed through ball from Spanish midfielder Jota.

Everton, who could have claimed provisional top spot with a victory, went close to a first-half equaliser but Dominic Calvert-Lewin's strike was superbly cleared off the line by defender Bjorn Engels.

The Merseysiders, who have four points from three games, struggled to turn their pressure into chances until manager Marco Silva introduced new signings Moise Kean and Alex Iwobi just after the hour mark.

Iwobi struck the post in the 82nd minute with a low drive through a crowded penalty and then fellow substitute and another former Arsenal winger, Theo Walcott, missed a great chance - volleying wide at the back post from a Kean cross.

Villa, back in the top flight after a three-year absence, made sure of the win in stoppage time when, after a break led by Wesley, Dutch substitute El Ghazi slotted home.

Villa manager Dean Smith was delighted with the result after defeat at Tottenham Hotspur on the opening weekend and last week's home loss to Bournemouth.

"I am more pleased to get the first points in the Premier League," he said. "Our performances have been OK, Tottenham was tough first up and we were good for an hour.

"We played well against Bournemouth and from the supporters there is a lot of optimism. They stuck right behind us.

"Everton started brighter but it was a good performance to get the win," added Smith.

"We have had a bit of fortune, they have missed two big chances form inside the box and Theo Walcott shot over. But I always felt we were a threat on the counter."

Silva was left scratching his head at his team's failure to get on the scoresheet.

"It is really difficult to see how we can lose this game when we created so many chances to score. It is a tough place to play football," said the Portuguese.

"The most difficult thing is to create and when you do you have to put the ball in the net."

Promoted Aston Villa earned their first Premier League points of the season with a 2-0 win over Everton thanks to goals from Wesley and Anwar El Ghazi at Villa Park on Friday.

Promoted Aston Villa earned their first Premier League points of the season with a 2-0 win over Everton thanks to goals from Wesley and Anwar El Ghazi at Villa Park on Friday. Villa's Brazilian striker Wesley, signed in the close season for a club-record £22 million ($27.03 million), put them ahead in the 21st minute with a clinical finish after a perfectly timed through ball from Spanish midfielder Jota. Everton, who could have claimed provisional top spot with a victory, went close to a first-half equaliser but Dominic Calvert-Lewin's strike was superbly cleared off the line by defender Bjorn Engels. The Merseysiders, who have four points from three games, struggled to turn their pressure into chances until manager Marco Silva introduced new signings Moise Kean and Alex Iwobi just after the hour mark. Iwobi struck the post in the 82nd minute with a low drive through a crowded penalty and then fellow substitute and another former Arsenal winger, Theo Walcott, missed a great chance - volleying wide at the back post from a Kean cross. Villa, back in the top flight after a three-year absence, made sure of the win in stoppage time when, after a break led by Wesley, Dutch substitute El Ghazi slotted home. Villa manager Dean Smith was delighted with the result after defeat at Tottenham Hotspur on the opening weekend and last week's home loss to Bournemouth. "I am more pleased to get the first points in the Premier League," he said. "Our performances have been OK, Tottenham was tough first up and we were good for an hour. "We played well against Bournemouth and from the supporters there is a lot of optimism. They stuck right behind us. "Everton started brighter but it was a good performance to get the win," added Smith. "We have had a bit of fortune, they have missed two big chances form inside the box and Theo Walcott shot over. But I always felt we were a threat on the counter." Silva was left scratching his head at his team's failure to get on the scoresheet. "It is really difficult to see how we can lose this game when we created so many chances to score. It is a tough place to play football," said the Portuguese. "The most difficult thing is to create and when you do you have to put the ball in the net."

Aston Villa get first points with 2-0 victory over Everton

The English Football Association (FA) has penalised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-birmingham-fan-punches-aston-villas-midfielder-jack-grealish-arrested-202391">Birmingham City and Aston Villa</a> after incidents occurred in their derby clash earlier this month.&nbsp;

FA released a statement to confirm that both the clubs have accepted fines of £5,000 ($6,613) for failing to control their players during the match.&nbsp;

The flashpoint was when a confrontation followed a foul by Birmingham's Maikel Kieftenbeld on Villa captain Jack Grealish in the fifth minute.&nbsp;

Players from both teams were charged with breaching FA Rule 20.&nbsp;

"Birmingham City and Aston Villa have been fined 5,000 pounds following their EFL Championship fixture on 10 March 2019," the FA said in a statement.

"Both clubs accepted a charge and the standard penalty for failing to ensure that their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion during the fifth minute."

In the same match, a Birmingham fan was jailed for 14 weeks and has been banned from St Andrews stadium for life for running on to the field of play and punching Grealish later on in the match.&nbsp;

The FA have yet to confirm whether Blues will face any further punishment for that incident.&nbsp;

Grealish, who escaped unhurt, eventually scored the winner as Villa won 1-0 to leapfrog their derby rivals in the standings.&nbsp;

The English Football Association (FA) has penalised Birmingham City and Aston Villa after incidents occurred in their derby clash earlier this month. FA released a statement to confirm that both the clubs have accepted fines of £5,000 ($6,613) for failing to control their players during the match.

The English Football Association (FA) has penalised Birmingham City and Aston Villa after incidents occurred in their derby clash earlier this month. FA released a statement to confirm that both the clubs have accepted fines of £5,000 ($6,613) for failing to control their players during the match. The flashpoint was when a confrontation followed a foul by Birmingham's Maikel Kieftenbeld on Villa captain Jack Grealish in the fifth minute. Players from both teams were charged with breaching FA Rule 20. "Birmingham City and Aston Villa have been fined 5,000 pounds following their EFL Championship fixture on 10 March 2019," the FA said in a statement. "Both clubs accepted a charge and the standard penalty for failing to ensure that their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion during the fifth minute." In the same match, a Birmingham fan was jailed for 14 weeks and has been banned from St Andrews stadium for life for running on to the field of play and punching Grealish later on in the match. The FA have yet to confirm whether Blues will face any further punishment for that incident. Grealish, who escaped unhurt, eventually scored the winner as Villa won 1-0 to leapfrog their derby rivals in the standings.

FA imposes sanctions on Birmingham City and Aston Villa for failing to control players

A Birmingham City fan was jailed for 14 weeks on Monday for running onto the field of play and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-birmingham-fan-punches-aston-villas-midfielder-jack-grealish-arrested-202391">punching Aston Villa's Jack Grealish</a> during a Championship (second tier) match at the weekend.

Paul Mitchell, a 27-year-old former pub employee, had pleaded guilty at Birmingham Magistrates' Court to charges of assault and encroachment.

"The sentence must act as a punishment and a deterrent to others in order to send a message to the public and fans and players like Mr Grealish who should be protected at all times," the Birmingham Mail quoted magistrate Alison Fisher as saying.

Mitchell was also banned for 10 years from attending any soccer match in Britain and ordered to pay 100 pounds ($130.95)compensation to Grealish as part of costs amounting to 350 pounds.

The court heard that Mitchell's family had left Birmingham after receiving death threats.

The incident, coupled with two others in England and Scotland over the weekend, had raised fears for player safety.

The English Football Association said it had written to Birmingham and Arsenal, where <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-fan-arrested-for-pitch-invasion-during-arsenals-goal-celebration-against-manchester-united-202515">Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was shoved</a>, seeking details of the security measures they had in place.

Mitchell's lawyer said his client could not explain his actions and had intended initially to run onto the pitch to whip up the crowd.

Grealish was punched to the side of the face by Mitchell during Villa's 1-0 win at St Andrew's on Sunday.

The 23-year-old fell to the turf as a steward and Villa players Glenn Whelan and Tammy Abraham caught Mitchell and dragged him away.

A statement from Grealish was read out in court, saying the player had been "shocked and scared because if this person was brazen enough to get onto the pitch, what else could he do?"

Birmingham City welcomed the sentence and said they would not tolerate such incidents.

"What he did was unacceptable and has no place in football. The club can confirm that Mr Mitchell is banned from our home ground... for life," the club said in a statement.

"And nor will he have access to purchase tickets for away games involving Birmingham City Football Club, or have tickets purchased on his behalf."

City said they had also banned another supporter for life for "a series of vile and malicious Tweets on social media, relating to Jack Grealish and his family."

A Birmingham City fan was jailed for 14 weeks on Monday for running onto the field of play and punching Aston Villa's Jack Grealish during a Championship (second tier) match at the weekend.

A Birmingham City fan was jailed for 14 weeks on Monday for running onto the field of play and punching Aston Villa's Jack Grealish during a Championship (second tier) match at the weekend. Paul Mitchell, a 27-year-old former pub employee, had pleaded guilty at Birmingham Magistrates' Court to charges of assault and encroachment. "The sentence must act as a punishment and a deterrent to others in order to send a message to the public and fans and players like Mr Grealish who should be protected at all times," the Birmingham Mail quoted magistrate Alison Fisher as saying. Mitchell was also banned for 10 years from attending any soccer match in Britain and ordered to pay 100 pounds ($130.95)compensation to Grealish as part of costs amounting to 350 pounds. The court heard that Mitchell's family had left Birmingham after receiving death threats. The incident, coupled with two others in England and Scotland over the weekend, had raised fears for player safety. The English Football Association said it had written to Birmingham and Arsenal, where Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was shoved, seeking details of the security measures they had in place. Mitchell's lawyer said his client could not explain his actions and had intended initially to run onto the pitch to whip up the crowd. Grealish was punched to the side of the face by Mitchell during Villa's 1-0 win at St Andrew's on Sunday. The 23-year-old fell to the turf as a steward and Villa players Glenn Whelan and Tammy Abraham caught Mitchell and dragged him away. A statement from Grealish was read out in court, saying the player had been "shocked and scared because if this person was brazen enough to get onto the pitch, what else could he do?" Birmingham City welcomed the sentence and said they would not tolerate such incidents. "What he did was unacceptable and has no place in football. The club can confirm that Mr Mitchell is banned from our home ground... for life," the club said in a statement. "And nor will he have access to purchase tickets for away games involving Birmingham City Football Club, or have tickets purchased on his behalf." City said they had also banned another supporter for life for "a series of vile and malicious Tweets on social media, relating to Jack Grealish and his family."

Man jailed for pitch attack on Aston Villa's Jack Grealish

Weekend pitch invasions in England and Scotland have raised fears for player safety with those in the game warning of potential tragedy unless firm action was taken to tackle the problem and the governing FA saying a line had been crossed.

Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor said there was real concern after "cowardly and criminal" attacks on players by spectators running onto the field of play.

Aston Villa's Jack Grealish was punched in the face by a man in a Championship (second tier) game at local rivals Birmingham City while Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was shoved at Arsenal.

In Scotland, Rangers captain James Tavernier was attacked at Hibernian.

Individuals have been charged in relation to all three incidents.

"We have seen an increase in such behaviour at clubs this season. It's been racist abuse, anti-Semitism and now its real fear for the safety of players," Taylor told Sky Sports News television.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-fan-arrested-for-pitch-invasion-during-arsenals-goal-celebration-against-manchester-united-202515">Also read:&nbsp;Fan arrested for pitch invasion during Arsenal's goal celebration against Manchester United</a>

"We have been warned now on too many occasions. This has got to be dealt with by the football bodies, the police, the stewards and the clubs. There is a total responsibility.

"We have got to address it now. If not, it is going to be too late and there is going to be a tragedy."

The English Football Association condemned Sunday's incidents as entirely unacceptable.

"We will be working with the clubs, the leagues and the police to discuss what collectively needs to be done to protect players and officials on the pitch," it added.

The FA said it had also written to Birmingham City and Arsenal for their observations and details of the security measures they had in place.

Sports Minister Mims Davies had earlier called on the football authorities and clubs to take strong action.

"Protecting&nbsp;players'&nbsp;safety is of paramount importance and every possible step must be taken to ensure that they are not put at risk," she added in a statement.

FAN RESPONSIBILITY

Taylor mentioned a range of possible options, including fines, points deductions and playing behind closed doors and said spectators also needed to be educated about the consequences of their behaviour.

Rangers' manager, and former England captain, Steven Gerrard said there was 'huge concern' and agreed fans had to play their part.

"Fans have to take responsibility and think before they do these type of things, because if it continues someone is going to get hurt and hurt badly, and no-one wants it to get to that stage," he told reporters.

With rising knife crime and deaths from stabbings in the headlines, former England striker Alan Shearer feared an escalation.

"If we don't stamp it out now, next time it could be a knife," he warned in the Sun newspaper.

"It's that serious. Where are we at in football when some thug thinks that is what he is going to do? The football authorities have to be seen to nail Birmingham for the behaviour of their fan," he added.

Other cautioned that points deductions imposed on clubs for the behaviour of their fans could encourage others to fake allegiance in order to sabotage a rival side.

Fences were common at English grounds in the 1970s and 1980s in response to an epidemic of pitch invasions but were removed after 96 fans were crushed to death in the 1989 Hillsborough stadium disaster.

Weekend pitch invasions in England and Scotland have raised fears for player safety with those in the game warning of potential tragedy unless firm action was taken to tackle the problem and the governing FA saying a line had been crossed.

Weekend pitch invasions in England and Scotland have raised fears for player safety with those in the game warning of potential tragedy unless firm action was taken to tackle the problem and the governing FA saying a line had been crossed. Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor said there was real concern after "cowardly and criminal" attacks on players by spectators running onto the field of play. Aston Villa's Jack Grealish was punched in the face by a man in a Championship (second tier) game at local rivals Birmingham City while Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was shoved at Arsenal. In Scotland, Rangers captain James Tavernier was attacked at Hibernian. Individuals have been charged in relation to all three incidents. "We have seen an increase in such behaviour at clubs this season. It's been racist abuse, anti-Semitism and now its real fear for the safety of players," Taylor told Sky Sports News television. Also read: Fan arrested for pitch invasion during Arsenal's goal celebration against Manchester United "We have been warned now on too many occasions. This has got to be dealt with by the football bodies, the police, the stewards and the clubs. There is a total responsibility. "We have got to address it now. If not, it is going to be too late and there is going to be a tragedy." The English Football Association condemned Sunday's incidents as entirely unacceptable. "We will be working with the clubs, the leagues and the police to discuss what collectively needs to be done to protect players and officials on the pitch," it added. The FA said it had also written to Birmingham City and Arsenal for their observations and details of the security measures they had in place. Sports Minister Mims Davies had earlier called on the football authorities and clubs to take strong action. "Protecting players' safety is of paramount importance and every possible step must be taken to ensure that they are not put at risk," she added in a statement. FAN RESPONSIBILITY Taylor mentioned a range of possible options, including fines, points deductions and playing behind closed doors and said spectators also needed to be educated about the consequences of their behaviour. Rangers' manager, and former England captain, Steven Gerrard said there was 'huge concern' and agreed fans had to play their part. "Fans have to take responsibility and think before they do these type of things, because if it continues someone is going to get hurt and hurt badly, and no-one wants it to get to that stage," he told reporters. With rising knife crime and deaths from stabbings in the headlines, former England striker Alan Shearer feared an escalation. "If we don't stamp it out now, next time it could be a knife," he warned in the Sun newspaper. "It's that serious. Where are we at in football when some thug thinks that is what he is going to do? The football authorities have to be seen to nail Birmingham for the behaviour of their fan," he added. Other cautioned that points deductions imposed on clubs for the behaviour of their fans could encourage others to fake allegiance in order to sabotage a rival side. Fences were common at English grounds in the 1970s and 1980s in response to an epidemic of pitch invasions but were removed after 96 fans were crushed to death in the 1989 Hillsborough stadium disaster.

Pitch invasions raise fears for player safety

In a shocking incident, Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish was attacked and punched in the face by a pitch invader during Sunday's Championship clash against Birmingham.&nbsp;

The pitch invader, who was reported as a&nbsp;Birmingham fan, ran onto the field and&nbsp;threw a punch at&nbsp;Grealish from behind at St Andrew's Stadium.&nbsp;

The blow caught Grealish, who did not see the intruder coming, on the side of the head and sent him sprawling to the turf.&nbsp;

Aston Villa&nbsp;players including Tammy Abraham and Glenn Whelan responded immediately&nbsp;to stop the intruder.&nbsp;

The match continued after stewards and security personnel had ushered the man off the pitch.&nbsp;

Later, West Midlands Police said the man had been arrested and it was reported Birmingham will ban the man for life from St Andrew's stadium.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

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Disgusting doesn’t sum this coward up <a href="https://twitter.com/BCFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AVFCOfficial</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/EFL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EFL</a> <a href="https://t.co/QY1KatyQh8">pic.twitter.com/QY1KatyQh8</a>
— Henry parker (@I8arsenal29) <a href="https://twitter.com/I8arsenal29/status/1104717948525203456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Omg what have I just seen bloody shocking behaviour <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/birmingham?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#birmingham</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AstonVilla?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AstonVilla</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/football?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#football</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/shocking?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#shocking</a> <a href="https://t.co/w2zLrcrJqi">pic.twitter.com/w2zLrcrJqi</a>
— Kirsty Law (@Kirstylawdiscus) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kirstylawdiscus/status/1104717141889159168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The EFL condemns the mindless actions of the individual who encroached on to the pitch at St Andrews on Sunday afternoon," a Football League statement read.

"It's a situation no player should ever be faced with."&nbsp;

Grealish went on to score the only goal of the game after 67 minutes to give Villa victory.&nbsp;

In a shocking incident, Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish was attacked and punched in the face by a pitch invader during Sunday's Championship clash against Birmingham.

In a shocking incident, Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish was attacked and punched in the face by a pitch invader during Sunday's Championship clash against Birmingham. The pitch invader, who was reported as a Birmingham fan, ran onto the field and threw a punch at Grealish from behind at St Andrew's Stadium. The blow caught Grealish, who did not see the intruder coming, on the side of the head and sent him sprawling to the turf. Aston Villa players including Tammy Abraham and Glenn Whelan responded immediately to stop the intruder. The match continued after stewards and security personnel had ushered the man off the pitch. Later, West Midlands Police said the man had been arrested and it was reported Birmingham will ban the man for life from St Andrew's stadium. Watch the video: Disgusting doesn’t sum this coward up @BCFC @AVFCOfficial @EFL pic.twitter.com/QY1KatyQh8 — Henry parker (@I8arsenal29) March 10, 2019 × Omg what have I just seen bloody shocking behaviour #birmingham #AstonVilla #football #shocking pic.twitter.com/w2zLrcrJqi — Kirsty Law (@Kirstylawdiscus) March 10, 2019 × "The EFL condemns the mindless actions of the individual who encroached on to the pitch at St Andrews on Sunday afternoon," a Football League statement read. "It's a situation no player should ever be faced with." Grealish went on to score the only goal of the game after 67 minutes to give Villa victory.

Watch: Birmingham fan punches Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish, arrested

Former Aston Villa and Bolton defender Jlloyd Samuel died in a car crash on Tuesday at the age of 37, Cheshire Police confirmed.

Samuel, who also won two international caps for Trinidad and Tobago, was involved in a collision with a truck in High Legh, north-west England, after reportedly dropping off his children off at school.

"At around 7.55am (0655GMT) police were called following reports of a collision involving a van and a Range Rover," said a statement from Cheshire Police.

"Sadly the driver of the car, Jlloyd Samuel, 37, from Lymm, died at the scene."

Samuel was born in the city of San Fernando in the south-west of Trinidad but moved to England as a youngster.

He was capped by England from Under-18 to Under-21 level and was an unused substitute for the senior international against Sweden in 2004 before switching allegiances to the country of his birth.

"We've received some terrible news that former national defender and ex-Aston Villa and Bolton Wanderers player Jlloyd Samuel died in a car crash this morning in England," the Trinidad and Tobago FA said on its official Facebook page.

"According to reports, Jlloyd was returning home after dropping his kids off to school and collided with an oncoming vehicle.

"The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association and his former national team-mates at this time extend deepest condolences to his family members both in the UK and here in Trinidad and Tobago."

Samuel spent nearly a decade at Villa Park before joining Bolton in 2007. He also had loan spells at Gillingham and Cardiff before ending his playing career in Iran.

Villa said their players will wear black armbands for Tuesday's Championship play-off second leg against Middlesbrough.

"We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of our former player Jlloyd Samuel at the age of just 37 in a car accident," said a post on Villa's official Twitter account.

"Our players will wear black armbands as a mark of respect tonight and our thoughts are with his friends and family at this very difficult time."

&nbsp;

Former Aston Villa and Bolton defender Jlloyd Samuel died in a car crash

Former Aston Villa and Bolton defender Jlloyd Samuel died in a car crash on Tuesday at the age of 37, Cheshire Police confirmed. Samuel, who also won two international caps for Trinidad and Tobago, was involved in a collision with a truck in High Legh, north-west England, after reportedly dropping off his children off at school. "At around 7.55am (0655GMT) police were called following reports of a collision involving a van and a Range Rover," said a statement from Cheshire Police. "Sadly the driver of the car, Jlloyd Samuel, 37, from Lymm, died at the scene." Samuel was born in the city of San Fernando in the south-west of Trinidad but moved to England as a youngster. He was capped by England from Under-18 to Under-21 level and was an unused substitute for the senior international against Sweden in 2004 before switching allegiances to the country of his birth. "We've received some terrible news that former national defender and ex-Aston Villa and Bolton Wanderers player Jlloyd Samuel died in a car crash this morning in England," the Trinidad and Tobago FA said on its official Facebook page. "According to reports, Jlloyd was returning home after dropping his kids off to school and collided with an oncoming vehicle. "The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association and his former national team-mates at this time extend deepest condolences to his family members both in the UK and here in Trinidad and Tobago." Samuel spent nearly a decade at Villa Park before joining Bolton in 2007. He also had loan spells at Gillingham and Cardiff before ending his playing career in Iran. Villa said their players will wear black armbands for Tuesday's Championship play-off second leg against Middlesbrough. "We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of our former player Jlloyd Samuel at the age of just 37 in a car accident," said a post on Villa's official Twitter account. "Our players will wear black armbands as a mark of respect tonight and our thoughts are with his friends and family at this very difficult time."

Former Aston Villa defender Jlloyd Samuel dies in car crash

Jonathan Kodija converted a late penalty to earn Aston Villa a 1-1 draw with Leeds United on Thursday, maintaining his team&#39;s unbeaten home record in the Championship this season.

The Ivorian striker scored four minutes from time, after Leeds defender Liam Cooper handled, to cancel out the opening goal of the night by Pontus Jansson.

Fourth-placed Leeds climbed above Huddersfield Town on goal difference with 42 points from 24 matches while Villa rose one spot to ninth on 35. Brighton and Hove Albion lead the way on 51 ahead of Newcastle United on 49.

Swede Jansson broke the deadlock in the 54th minute when he slipped his marker at a corner and rose to head powerfully into the net.

The defender, on loan from Torino, almost struck again a minute later when he hit the bar with a half volley.

The draw ended a run of three straight wins for Garry Monk&#39;s Leeds and a sequence of five successive home victories for Steve Bruce&#39;s Villa.

(Reuters)

Fourth-placed Leeds climbed above Huddersfield Town on goal difference with 42 points from 24 matches

Jonathan Kodija converted a late penalty to earn Aston Villa a 1-1 draw with Leeds United on Thursday, maintaining his team's unbeaten home record in the Championship this season. The Ivorian striker scored four minutes from time, after Leeds defender Liam Cooper handled, to cancel out the opening goal of the night by Pontus Jansson. Fourth-placed Leeds climbed above Huddersfield Town on goal difference with 42 points from 24 matches while Villa rose one spot to ninth on 35. Brighton and Hove Albion lead the way on 51 ahead of Newcastle United on 49. Swede Jansson broke the deadlock in the 54th minute when he slipped his marker at a corner and rose to head powerfully into the net. The defender, on loan from Torino, almost struck again a minute later when he hit the bar with a half volley. The draw ended a run of three straight wins for Garry Monk's Leeds and a sequence of five successive home victories for Steve Bruce's Villa. (Reuters)

Football: Late Kodija penalty earns Aston Villa 1-1 draw against Leeds

Gareth Southgate will lead England towards the 2018 World Cup and 2020 European Championship after being appointed permanent manager of the national team by &nbsp;the &nbsp;FA on Wednesday.

The 46-year-old succeeds Sam Allardyce who departed 67 days into his reign after being caught up in a newspaper sting.

In a statement released after a meeting of the Football Association board at St George`s Park, the FA said the former England defender had agreed for a four-year contract.

Southgate, who was in charge of England&#39;s under 21s for 32 games, has overseen two wins and a draw in the three World Cup qualifying games as interim manager, leaving England top of the group. He also saw his side draw with Spain.

&quot;I am extremely proud to be appointed England manager. However, I`m also conscious that getting the job is one thing, now I want to do the job successfully,&quot; the former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough player said.

&quot;I`ve thoroughly enjoyed working with the players over these past four games and I think there`s huge potential.

&quot;For me, the hard work starts now.&quot;

His first match in permanent charge will be away to Germany in a friendly in March, followed by a World Cup qualifier at home to Lithuania later that month.

(Reuters)&nbsp;

Southgate signed a four-year contract which includes England's campaigns for the 2018 World Cup and the 2020 European Championship

Gareth Southgate will lead England towards the 2018 World Cup and 2020 European Championship after being appointed permanent manager of the national team by the FA on Wednesday. The 46-year-old succeeds Sam Allardyce who departed 67 days into his reign after being caught up in a newspaper sting. In a statement released after a meeting of the Football Association board at St George`s Park, the FA said the former England defender had agreed for a four-year contract. Southgate, who was in charge of England's under 21s for 32 games, has overseen two wins and a draw in the three World Cup qualifying games as interim manager, leaving England top of the group. He also saw his side draw with Spain. "I am extremely proud to be appointed England manager. However, I`m also conscious that getting the job is one thing, now I want to do the job successfully," the former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough player said. "I`ve thoroughly enjoyed working with the players over these past four games and I think there`s huge potential. "For me, the hard work starts now." His first match in permanent charge will be away to Germany in a friendly in March, followed by a World Cup qualifier at home to Lithuania later that month. (Reuters)

Southgate appointed England's football manager

Aston Villa appointed Steve Bruce as the Championship side&rsquo;s new manager on Wednesday, the struggling second-tier English club confirmed.

Bruce, 55, replaces Roberto Di Matteo at the helm of a team who were relegated from the Premier League last season and who are now languishing in 19th place in the Championship.

He becomes the fourth permanent manager in the last 12 months at Villa Park.

Former Manchester United defender Bruce returns to management after quitting Hull in July, having successfully guided the Tigers back to the Premier League.

&quot;It&#39;s a wonderful opportunity. It is one of the big clubs of this country. To be given the opportunity to manage it is terrific,&quot; Bruce told the club&#39;s official website.&nbsp;

&quot;I relish the challenge of trying to take the club where it wants to go and needs to be - and try to turn around the misfortune we seem to have had over the past few years.&nbsp;

I am absolutely delighted to have been given the chance. I hope I can do my stuff.&quot;

Bruce, who was in charge at city rivals Birmingham from 2001 to 2007, will be in the dugout for Saturday&#39;s derby clash against local rivals Wolves as Villa look to snap a nine-match winless run.

The affable Bruce has always been the leading contender for Villa, who also interviewed assistant manager Steve Clarke, after Di Matteo was axed.

Villa&#39;s Chief executive Keith Wyness, ex-boss Brian Little and technical director Steve Round advised owner Tony Xia, who had the final say.

&quot;I&#39;m delighted to welcome Steve to the club. With his track record, not only at leading teams to promotion from the Championship but also vast experience in the Premier League,&quot; Xia said on securing Bruce&#39;s services

 
&nbsp;

(AFP)

The former Manchester United defender returns to management after quitting Hull in July

Aston Villa appointed Steve Bruce as the Championship side’s new manager on Wednesday, the struggling second-tier English club confirmed. Bruce, 55, replaces Roberto Di Matteo at the helm of a team who were relegated from the Premier League last season and who are now languishing in 19th place in the Championship. He becomes the fourth permanent manager in the last 12 months at Villa Park. Former Manchester United defender Bruce returns to management after quitting Hull in July, having successfully guided the Tigers back to the Premier League. "It's a wonderful opportunity. It is one of the big clubs of this country. To be given the opportunity to manage it is terrific," Bruce told the club's official website. "I relish the challenge of trying to take the club where it wants to go and needs to be - and try to turn around the misfortune we seem to have had over the past few years. I am absolutely delighted to have been given the chance. I hope I can do my stuff." Bruce, who was in charge at city rivals Birmingham from 2001 to 2007, will be in the dugout for Saturday's derby clash against local rivals Wolves as Villa look to snap a nine-match winless run. The affable Bruce has always been the leading contender for Villa, who also interviewed assistant manager Steve Clarke, after Di Matteo was axed. Villa's Chief executive Keith Wyness, ex-boss Brian Little and technical director Steve Round advised owner Tony Xia, who had the final say. "I'm delighted to welcome Steve to the club. With his track record, not only at leading teams to promotion from the Championship but also vast experience in the Premier League," Xia said on securing Bruce's services (AFP)

Aston Villa appoint Steve Bruce as new manager

Roberto Di Matteo has been handed the task of restoring Aston Villa&#39;s fortunes after the seven-times English champions announced the Italian as their new manager today.

The 46-year-old, who won the Champions League during a short spell in charge of Chelsea in 2012, takes over weeks after the club was relegated from the Premier League.
&quot;It&#39;s a wonderful honour for me to become manager of this great football club and I&#39;m looking forward to the challenge of taking Aston Villa back to its rightful place,&quot; Di Matteo said.

Former Chelsea team mate and coach Steve Clarke has been appointed as Di Matteo&#39;s assistant.

Di Matteo has previously worked as a manager in the second-tier Championship, gaining promotion with West Bromwich Albion in 2009-10.

Villa will be hoping that their new manager can have a similar impact after a dreadful season in which they finished bottom with only three wins and sacked two managers, Tim Sherwood in October and his replacement Remi Garde in March.

Swiss-born former Italian midfielder Di Matteo played for Lazio and Chelsea. He once scored after 42 seconds in the 1997 FA Cup final against Middlesbrough.

He won two FA Cups, a League Cup and a UEFA Cup Winners&#39; Cup while at Stamford Bridge and returned to Chelsea as assistant manager to Andre Villas-Boas in 2011, stepping up as interim manager when the Portuguese was sacked in March 2012.

Against all expectations, he guided Chelsea to a Champions League semi-final defeat of Barcelona and then beat Bayern Munich on penalties in the final in their own stadium.

Di Matteo was rewarded by being appointed manager on a permanent basis&nbsp;but by November&nbsp;he had fallen out of favour and was sacked after a Champions League defeat by Juventus.

Since then&nbsp;he managed Schalke 04 in the Bundesliga but resigned in May 2015.

Di Matteo's appointment is a result of the club's performance in the Premier League. This former Italian midfielder had won the Champions League and FA Cup with Chelsea in 2012

Roberto Di Matteo has been handed the task of restoring Aston Villa's fortunes after the seven-times English champions announced the Italian as their new manager today. The 46-year-old, who won the Champions League during a short spell in charge of Chelsea in 2012, takes over weeks after the club was relegated from the Premier League. "It's a wonderful honour for me to become manager of this great football club and I'm looking forward to the challenge of taking Aston Villa back to its rightful place," Di Matteo said. Former Chelsea team mate and coach Steve Clarke has been appointed as Di Matteo's assistant. Di Matteo has previously worked as a manager in the second-tier Championship, gaining promotion with West Bromwich Albion in 2009-10. Villa will be hoping that their new manager can have a similar impact after a dreadful season in which they finished bottom with only three wins and sacked two managers, Tim Sherwood in October and his replacement Remi Garde in March. Swiss-born former Italian midfielder Di Matteo played for Lazio and Chelsea. He once scored after 42 seconds in the 1997 FA Cup final against Middlesbrough. He won two FA Cups, a League Cup and a UEFA Cup Winners' Cup while at Stamford Bridge and returned to Chelsea as assistant manager to Andre Villas-Boas in 2011, stepping up as interim manager when the Portuguese was sacked in March 2012. Against all expectations, he guided Chelsea to a Champions League semi-final defeat of Barcelona and then beat Bayern Munich on penalties in the final in their own stadium. Di Matteo was rewarded by being appointed manager on a permanent basis but by November he had fallen out of favour and was sacked after a Champions League defeat by Juventus. Since then he managed Schalke 04 in the Bundesliga but resigned in May 2015.

Roberto Di Matteo is Aston Villa's new manager

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