Liverpool are still waiting to see if forwards Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota will return from injury for Sunday's League Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley, manager Juergen Klopp said on Monday.

Firmino and Jota picked up muscle and ankle injuries respectively during Liverpool's 2-0 Champions League win at Inter Milan last week. The pair missed their 3-1 Premier League win at home over Norwich City at the weekend.

"Yes, it's too early," Klopp told the club website when asked about their availability.

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"I don't even know if it will be a late decision or not... I saw them both today, they both look great – but those two always look great.

"We have to see how the specific issues develop but we obviously will try everything."

Liverpool host Leeds United in the league on Wednesday before Sunday's trip to London.

Liverpool are still waiting to see if forwards Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota will return from injury for Sunday's League Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley, manager Juergen Klopp said on Monday.

Liverpool are still waiting to see if forwards Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota will return from injury for Sunday's League Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley, manager Juergen Klopp said on Monday. Firmino and Jota picked up muscle and ankle injuries respectively during Liverpool's 2-0 Champions League win at Inter Milan last week. The pair missed their 3-1 Premier League win at home over Norwich City at the weekend. "Yes, it's too early," Klopp told the club website when asked about their availability. ALSO READ: Manchester City's stumble against Tottenham Hotspur might pave way for another epic title duel "I don't even know if it will be a late decision or not... I saw them both today, they both look great – but those two always look great. "We have to see how the specific issues develop but we obviously will try everything." Liverpool host Leeds United in the league on Wednesday before Sunday's trip to London.

Roberto Firmino, Diogo Jota doubtful for League Cup final against Chelsea, says manager Juergen Klopp

Liverpool closed the gap on Premier League leaders Manchester City to nine points as Diogo Jota`s doubled earned Juergen Klopp`s side a 2-0 victory over Leicester City on Thursday. After City`s 2-0 win over Brentford on Wednesday extended their advantage at the top, second-placed Liverpool needed to issue a response, edging in front in the first half at Anfield thanks to Jota`s close-range finish.

Mohamed Salah came off the bench to rapturous applause to make his first appearance since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, with the Egyptian striker curling a sumptuous effort against the post as Liverpool pressed for a second.

That second did not look like it was going to come as chances continued to come and go, but Jota remained ruthless in the penalty area, drilling home the game-clinching goal three minutes from time.

The win moved Liverpool onto 51 points from 23 games, with leaders City having played one game more, while Leicester`s poor season continued as they remain languishing down in 12th in the standings.

"I always like to get into those spaces," Jota told BT Sport. "I was lucky enough to be in the right place and to score.

"There was obviously an established front three (at Liverpool before he joined) but we have more options now and that is good for the team."

Another of those attacking options is Luis Diaz, who was handed his Premier League debut by Klopp after signing for Liverpool during the January transfer window, with the Colombian showing off his skills to get fans off their seats early on.

Trent Alexander-Arnold forced Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel into a fine save, before Andrew Robertson almost got on the end of a low cross at the back post.

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When Liverpool finally made their pressure pay, the goal came via a familiar source, with Jota reacting quickest to Schmeichel`s save to keep out Virgil van Dijk`s header from a corner.

Leicester beat Liverpool in the reverse fixture between these teams earlier in the season, but they never looked like getting back into the game at Anfield.

Salah`s introduction re-energised the hosts, with Liverpool`s top goalscorer twice denied by Schmeichel, before then hitting the woodwork.

The dazzling Diaz was then next to be denied by Schmeichel, before Jota made one count, squeezing his 12th league goal of the season home to put the game to bed.

Liverpool, the only remaining Premier League side yet to lose on home soil this season, have now won 11 of their last 15 league games at Anfield.

Liverpool closed the gap on Premier League leaders Manchester City to nine points as Diogo Jota`s doubled earned Juergen Klopp`s side a 2-0 victory over Leicester City on Thursday.

Liverpool closed the gap on Premier League leaders Manchester City to nine points as Diogo Jota`s doubled earned Juergen Klopp`s side a 2-0 victory over Leicester City on Thursday. After City`s 2-0 win over Brentford on Wednesday extended their advantage at the top, second-placed Liverpool needed to issue a response, edging in front in the first half at Anfield thanks to Jota`s close-range finish. Mohamed Salah came off the bench to rapturous applause to make his first appearance since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, with the Egyptian striker curling a sumptuous effort against the post as Liverpool pressed for a second. That second did not look like it was going to come as chances continued to come and go, but Jota remained ruthless in the penalty area, drilling home the game-clinching goal three minutes from time. The win moved Liverpool onto 51 points from 23 games, with leaders City having played one game more, while Leicester`s poor season continued as they remain languishing down in 12th in the standings. "I always like to get into those spaces," Jota told BT Sport. "I was lucky enough to be in the right place and to score. "There was obviously an established front three (at Liverpool before he joined) but we have more options now and that is good for the team." Another of those attacking options is Luis Diaz, who was handed his Premier League debut by Klopp after signing for Liverpool during the January transfer window, with the Colombian showing off his skills to get fans off their seats early on. Trent Alexander-Arnold forced Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel into a fine save, before Andrew Robertson almost got on the end of a low cross at the back post. Also Read: Man accused of stealing money from Neymar arrested by Brazilian police When Liverpool finally made their pressure pay, the goal came via a familiar source, with Jota reacting quickest to Schmeichel`s save to keep out Virgil van Dijk`s header from a corner. Leicester beat Liverpool in the reverse fixture between these teams earlier in the season, but they never looked like getting back into the game at Anfield. Salah`s introduction re-energised the hosts, with Liverpool`s top goalscorer twice denied by Schmeichel, before then hitting the woodwork. The dazzling Diaz was then next to be denied by Schmeichel, before Jota made one count, squeezing his 12th league goal of the season home to put the game to bed. Liverpool, the only remaining Premier League side yet to lose on home soil this season, have now won 11 of their last 15 league games at Anfield.

Diogo Jota scores a brace as Liverpool beat Leicester City 2-0 to close gap on top

Liverpool beat a young Cardiff City side 3-1 in the FA Cup on Sunday at Anfield to advance to the fifth round, with second-half goals from Diogo Jota, Takumi Minamino and Harvey Elliott.

While Juergen Klopp named a strong Liverpool team, four academy graduates started for Cardiff with manager Steve Morison making several changes due to injuries and with one eye on the Championship relegation battle where they are 20th.

The first half was one-way traffic as Liverpool dominated possession and attempted several shots on goal but Cardiff`s rearguard stood firm to keep the home side at bay.

Liverpool`s perseverance paid off eight minutes into the second period when Jota rose highest to head home a Trent Alexander-Arnold cross from a set piece for his 15th goal of the season in all competitions.

"Cup games are always hard, even when playing lower league teams and we know the magic of the FA Cup," Jota said.

"It was crucial to get the first goal, it`s hard to get the space against a low block and in the end we got three and are in the next stage."

Liverpool doubled their lead when a defensive mix-up allowed new 45 million-euro ($51.5-million) signing Luis Diaz to steal the ball in Cardiff`s box and cut back after some nifty footwork to Minamino, who fired home.

Elliott then marked his return to action after ankle surgery earlier this season with a dazzling strike when the 18-year-old expertly controlled a cross from Andy Robertson before turning on the spot and volleying home in front of the Kop.

Cardiff pulled one goal back as a consolation when 19-year-old Rubin Colwill initiated a counter-attack after stealing the ball in midfield, and he finished it with aplomb with a shot from the edge of the box.

"I`m really disappointed that we conceded a set piece and it was two poor goals that gave them the other two," Morison told ITV Sport.

"Coming away from Anfield frustrated that we`ve given them three poor goals, it`s tough... We had to withstand some pressure but I thought we did it well."

Liverpool will host Norwich City in the fifth round.

Liverpool beat a young Cardiff City side 3-1 in the FA Cup on Sunday at Anfield to advance to the fifth round, with second-half goals from Diogo Jota, Takumi Minamino and Harvey Elliott.

Liverpool beat a young Cardiff City side 3-1 in the FA Cup on Sunday at Anfield to advance to the fifth round, with second-half goals from Diogo Jota, Takumi Minamino and Harvey Elliott. While Juergen Klopp named a strong Liverpool team, four academy graduates started for Cardiff with manager Steve Morison making several changes due to injuries and with one eye on the Championship relegation battle where they are 20th. The first half was one-way traffic as Liverpool dominated possession and attempted several shots on goal but Cardiff`s rearguard stood firm to keep the home side at bay. Liverpool`s perseverance paid off eight minutes into the second period when Jota rose highest to head home a Trent Alexander-Arnold cross from a set piece for his 15th goal of the season in all competitions. "Cup games are always hard, even when playing lower league teams and we know the magic of the FA Cup," Jota said. "It was crucial to get the first goal, it`s hard to get the space against a low block and in the end we got three and are in the next stage." Liverpool doubled their lead when a defensive mix-up allowed new 45 million-euro ($51.5-million) signing Luis Diaz to steal the ball in Cardiff`s box and cut back after some nifty footwork to Minamino, who fired home. Elliott then marked his return to action after ankle surgery earlier this season with a dazzling strike when the 18-year-old expertly controlled a cross from Andy Robertson before turning on the spot and volleying home in front of the Kop. Cardiff pulled one goal back as a consolation when 19-year-old Rubin Colwill initiated a counter-attack after stealing the ball in midfield, and he finished it with aplomb with a shot from the edge of the box. "I`m really disappointed that we conceded a set piece and it was two poor goals that gave them the other two," Morison told ITV Sport. "Coming away from Anfield frustrated that we`ve given them three poor goals, it`s tough... We had to withstand some pressure but I thought we did it well." Liverpool will host Norwich City in the fifth round.

Jota, Minamino and Elliott score as Liverpool beat Cardiff City 3-1 to enter FA Cup fifth round

Mohamed Salah hit a hat-trick as Liverpool humiliated Manchester United, romping to a stunning 5-0 victory at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday.

Naby Keita got the visitors off to the ideal start in the fifth minute and then a dreadful mix-up between Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire led to Diogo Jota turning in a low cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold to make it 2-0 after 13 minutes.

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United were in disarray at the back and Salah made it 3-0 - scoring for the tenth straight game in all competitions - converting a low ball from Naby Keita and then added the fourth after being set up by Jota.

It was the first time United had been 4-0 behind at the interval in the Premier League era and they were loudly booed off the field.

It took just five minutes after the break for Salah to complete his hat-trick with a trademark clinical finish after a superb through ball from Jordan Henderson.

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United`s day got worse as they had a Cristiano Ronaldo goal over-ruled for offside by VAR and then halftime substitute Paul Pogba was sent off for a two-footed tackle on Keita, 15 minutes after coming on. 
&nbsp;

Mohamed Salah hit a hat-trick as Liverpool humiliated Manchester United, romping to a stunning 5-0 victory at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday. Naby Keita got the visitors off to the ideal start in the fifth minute and then a dreadful mix-up between Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire led to Diogo Jota turning in a low cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold to make it 2-0 after 13 minutes.

Mohamed Salah hit a hat-trick as Liverpool humiliated Manchester United, romping to a stunning 5-0 victory at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday. Naby Keita got the visitors off to the ideal start in the fifth minute and then a dreadful mix-up between Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire led to Diogo Jota turning in a low cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold to make it 2-0 after 13 minutes. ALSO READ: El Clasico: David Alaba strikes as Real Madrid beat struggling rivals Barcelona in La Liga United were in disarray at the back and Salah made it 3-0 - scoring for the tenth straight game in all competitions - converting a low ball from Naby Keita and then added the fourth after being set up by Jota. It was the first time United had been 4-0 behind at the interval in the Premier League era and they were loudly booed off the field. It took just five minutes after the break for Salah to complete his hat-trick with a trademark clinical finish after a superb through ball from Jordan Henderson. ALSO READ: Marcus Rashford, youngsters must strive to have career like Cristiano Ronaldo, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer United`s day got worse as they had a Cristiano Ronaldo goal over-ruled for offside by VAR and then halftime substitute Paul Pogba was sent off for a two-footed tackle on Keita, 15 minutes after coming on.

Premier League: Mohamed Salah scores hat-trick as Liverpool put five past shambolic Manchester United

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday.

A wretched run of six successive home league defeats has left Liverpool with an uphill task to qualify for the Champions League next season.

But Klopp's men have now won six of their last seven games away from Anfield.

Victory moved the English champions back up to sixth and within five points of fourth-placed Chelsea.

"It's all about the result," said Klopp. "It was a big fight. We won three dirty points, I am completely fine with that. We need that to get back on track."

A disappointing night for Wolves ended with a bigger concern than just the result as goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to be stretchered off after 15 minutes of treatment for a head injury following a collision with his own player Connor Coady in the closing stages.

However, Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo allayed fears over the Portuguese international's health.

"He's OK. He's conscious, he remembers what happens, he's aware, so they tell me he's OK," said Nuno. "He's going to recover, so it's OK."

Wolves have already been badly affected by a serious head injury this season. Their top scorer for the past two seasons, Raul Jimenez, has been out since fracturing his skull against Arsenal in November.

The absence of Jimenez means Nuno's men have missed Jota even more since he joined the English champions for an initial £41 million ($57 million) in September.

Jota has also been missed by Liverpool for much of the past three months due to a knee injury that halted his flying start to life at Anfield.

But the winger is hopeful his return can inspire a strong end to the season to secure Champions League football either via the Premier League or winning Liverpool's seventh European Cup.

"Hopefully this can be a great start of a run towards the end of the season," said Jota.

<h2>- Alisson escapes -</h2>

Klopp named the same side that bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig last midweek to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

However, the visitors should have been punished for a slow start as goalkeeper Alisson Becker somehow escaped without conceding a penalty when he crashed into Nelson Semedo after just two minutes.

Sadio Mane missed two big chances at the other end to open the scoring for the visitors, but the Senegalese did have a part to play in the only goal of the game in first-half stoppage time as he exchanged passes with Mohamed Salah before teeing up Jota for a low shot that should have been kept out by Patricio low to his right.

Liverpool's lack of fluency compared to the side that romped to the title last season was even more clear after the break as they were happy to sit on their lead and would have been punished by a more clinical opponent.

Coady headed wide a great chance to score against his former club, while Adama Traore stung the palms of Alisson and Fabio Silva's weak header floated into the grateful Liverpool 'keeper's arms.

But with Jimenez watching on from the stands, even Liverpool's makeshift central defensive pairing of Nat Phillips and Ozan Kabak were not asked serious questions.

Salah had a second goal for Liverpool ruled out for offside five minutes from time. During his attempt to stop the Egyptian, Coady inadvertently caught his goalkeeper.

A lengthy stoppage ensued before the game restarted in the 100th minute and Wolves used a concussion substitute as John Ruddy replaced Patricio.

Despite a nervy finale, Liverpool held out to take advantage of a weekend in which a host of the other contenders for the top four all faltered.

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday.

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday. A wretched run of six successive home league defeats has left Liverpool with an uphill task to qualify for the Champions League next season. But Klopp's men have now won six of their last seven games away from Anfield. Victory moved the English champions back up to sixth and within five points of fourth-placed Chelsea. "It's all about the result," said Klopp. "It was a big fight. We won three dirty points, I am completely fine with that. We need that to get back on track." A disappointing night for Wolves ended with a bigger concern than just the result as goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to be stretchered off after 15 minutes of treatment for a head injury following a collision with his own player Connor Coady in the closing stages. However, Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo allayed fears over the Portuguese international's health. "He's OK. He's conscious, he remembers what happens, he's aware, so they tell me he's OK," said Nuno. "He's going to recover, so it's OK." Wolves have already been badly affected by a serious head injury this season. Their top scorer for the past two seasons, Raul Jimenez, has been out since fracturing his skull against Arsenal in November. The absence of Jimenez means Nuno's men have missed Jota even more since he joined the English champions for an initial £41 million ($57 million) in September. Jota has also been missed by Liverpool for much of the past three months due to a knee injury that halted his flying start to life at Anfield. But the winger is hopeful his return can inspire a strong end to the season to secure Champions League football either via the Premier League or winning Liverpool's seventh European Cup. "Hopefully this can be a great start of a run towards the end of the season," said Jota. - Alisson escapes - Klopp named the same side that bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig last midweek to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League. However, the visitors should have been punished for a slow start as goalkeeper Alisson Becker somehow escaped without conceding a penalty when he crashed into Nelson Semedo after just two minutes. Sadio Mane missed two big chances at the other end to open the scoring for the visitors, but the Senegalese did have a part to play in the only goal of the game in first-half stoppage time as he exchanged passes with Mohamed Salah before teeing up Jota for a low shot that should have been kept out by Patricio low to his right. Liverpool's lack of fluency compared to the side that romped to the title last season was even more clear after the break as they were happy to sit on their lead and would have been punished by a more clinical opponent. Coady headed wide a great chance to score against his former club, while Adama Traore stung the palms of Alisson and Fabio Silva's weak header floated into the grateful Liverpool 'keeper's arms. But with Jimenez watching on from the stands, even Liverpool's makeshift central defensive pairing of Nat Phillips and Ozan Kabak were not asked serious questions. Salah had a second goal for Liverpool ruled out for offside five minutes from time. During his attempt to stop the Egyptian, Coady inadvertently caught his goalkeeper. A lengthy stoppage ensued before the game restarted in the 100th minute and Wolves used a concussion substitute as John Ruddy replaced Patricio. Despite a nervy finale, Liverpool held out to take advantage of a weekend in which a host of the other contenders for the top four all faltered.

Klopp happy to win 'dirty' as Jota returns to haunt Wolves

Liverpool shrugged off an injury crisis to move level on points with Tottenham at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Leicester, while 10-man Arsenal were left to cling on for a 0-0 draw at Leeds by Nicolas Pepe's red card on Sunday.

The champions were without the injured Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Xherdan Shaqiri and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, while top scorer Mohamed Salah was absent due to a positive coronavirus test.

Yet, Jurgen Klopp's men were still imperious in easing past a Leicester side that had started the weekend on top of the table.

The Foxes did not do themselves any favours when Jonny Evans turned James Milner's corner into his own net to reward Liverpool's bright start.

Diogo Jota then became the first ever Liverpool player to score in his first four home league games with a downward header from Andy Robertson's cross.

Only a combination of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and the woodwork kept Liverpool from a repeat of the 4-0 thrashing they dished out to Leicester when the sides last met in December.

But Robert Firmino then rounded off a fine night for the champions with a towering header from another Milner corner six minutes from time.

"Playing them like that tonight, I do not take for granted," said Klopp. "The boys were on fire."

Liverpool have now set a new club record of 64 unbeaten league games at Anfield.

<h2>- Pepe lets Arsenal down -</h2>

Leicester's defeat means Arsenal are just five points off the top four, but Mikel Arteta was furious at Pepe's lack of discipline as the Gunners were lucky to escape with a point at Elland Road.

"It's unacceptable," said the Spaniard, whose side have won just one of their last five league games.&nbsp;

"With 10 men it is a big disadvantage. I really liked the personality of the team when Pepe let the team down, how we stuck to our jobs. Obviously it makes it really difficult."

Leeds are 14th after their third consecutive match without a win, but Marcelo Bielsa's men were left cursing their luck as Rodrigo, Patrick Bamford and Raphinha all hit the woodwork in the closing stages.

Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had been given a rare chance in the central striker's role, but he was starved of service even before Pepe's dismissal.

Aubameyang's penalty in a 1-0 win at Manchester United last month is the only league goal Arsenal have now scored for nearly 500 minutes.

<h2>- Everton bounce back -</h2>

Everton recovered from three straight defeats to beat Fulham 3-2 thanks to a double from Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

The England international moved to the top of the Premier League goalscoring charts with Abdoulaye Doucoure also on target for Carlo Ancelotti's men before half-time.

Bobby Decordova-Reid had equalised at 1-1 for Fulham, but their woes from the penalty spot continued as a third different player this season missed from the spot when Ivan Cavaleiro scooped his effort over the bar.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek reduced the deficit 20 minutes from time, but Everton held on to win for the first time in five league games to move up to sixth.

"The most important part of the game was to be back to winning," Ancelotti said.

"We lost energy in the second half, the players were tired. I changed to put more fresh legs on the pitch but we had to defend. In the end it went well."

Fulham remain one place above the relegation zone after their third defeat in four games.

Bottom of the table Sheffield United's wait for their first win this season goes on after they were beaten 1-0 by West Ham at Bramall Lane.

Sebastien Haller scored the winner in the 56th minute with a fierce shot that flashed into the roof of the net to move the Hammers up to eighth.

Liverpool shrugged off an injury crisis to move level on points with Tottenham at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Leicester, while 10-man Arsenal were left to cling on for a 0-0 draw at Leeds by Nicolas Pepe's red card on Sunday.

Liverpool shrugged off an injury crisis to move level on points with Tottenham at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Leicester, while 10-man Arsenal were left to cling on for a 0-0 draw at Leeds by Nicolas Pepe's red card on Sunday. The champions were without the injured Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Xherdan Shaqiri and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, while top scorer Mohamed Salah was absent due to a positive coronavirus test. Yet, Jurgen Klopp's men were still imperious in easing past a Leicester side that had started the weekend on top of the table. The Foxes did not do themselves any favours when Jonny Evans turned James Milner's corner into his own net to reward Liverpool's bright start. Diogo Jota then became the first ever Liverpool player to score in his first four home league games with a downward header from Andy Robertson's cross. Only a combination of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and the woodwork kept Liverpool from a repeat of the 4-0 thrashing they dished out to Leicester when the sides last met in December. But Robert Firmino then rounded off a fine night for the champions with a towering header from another Milner corner six minutes from time. "Playing them like that tonight, I do not take for granted," said Klopp. "The boys were on fire." Liverpool have now set a new club record of 64 unbeaten league games at Anfield. - Pepe lets Arsenal down - Leicester's defeat means Arsenal are just five points off the top four, but Mikel Arteta was furious at Pepe's lack of discipline as the Gunners were lucky to escape with a point at Elland Road. "It's unacceptable," said the Spaniard, whose side have won just one of their last five league games. "With 10 men it is a big disadvantage. I really liked the personality of the team when Pepe let the team down, how we stuck to our jobs. Obviously it makes it really difficult." Leeds are 14th after their third consecutive match without a win, but Marcelo Bielsa's men were left cursing their luck as Rodrigo, Patrick Bamford and Raphinha all hit the woodwork in the closing stages. Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had been given a rare chance in the central striker's role, but he was starved of service even before Pepe's dismissal. Aubameyang's penalty in a 1-0 win at Manchester United last month is the only league goal Arsenal have now scored for nearly 500 minutes. - Everton bounce back - Everton recovered from three straight defeats to beat Fulham 3-2 thanks to a double from Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The England international moved to the top of the Premier League goalscoring charts with Abdoulaye Doucoure also on target for Carlo Ancelotti's men before half-time. Bobby Decordova-Reid had equalised at 1-1 for Fulham, but their woes from the penalty spot continued as a third different player this season missed from the spot when Ivan Cavaleiro scooped his effort over the bar. Ruben Loftus-Cheek reduced the deficit 20 minutes from time, but Everton held on to win for the first time in five league games to move up to sixth. "The most important part of the game was to be back to winning," Ancelotti said. "We lost energy in the second half, the players were tired. I changed to put more fresh legs on the pitch but we had to defend. In the end it went well." Fulham remain one place above the relegation zone after their third defeat in four games. Bottom of the table Sheffield United's wait for their first win this season goes on after they were beaten 1-0 by West Ham at Bramall Lane. Sebastien Haller scored the winner in the 56th minute with a fierce shot that flashed into the roof of the net to move the Hammers up to eighth.

Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds

Diogo Jota’s superb hat-trick lit up Liverpool’s 5-0 Champions League thrashing of Atalanta on Tuesday and served further notice to the club’s famed frontline that the Portuguese striker does not intend to play solely a supporting role.

Liverpool face Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday and it now seems almost unthinkable that Jota’s name will not be in the starting lineup.

That may have seemed unlikely at the start of the season when Liverpool signed the 23-year-old from Wolverhampton Wanderers to provide competition to Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, who had developed into one of the most feared attacking trios in football.

With Firmino’s form under the spotlight after an underwhelming start to the campaign, Jota slotted in alongside Salah and Mane against Atalanta and put on a clinical display of finishing before being replaced by Firmino in the 65th minute.

“I’m playing in the best team of my career so far, that’s for sure. I don’t know if it was my best moment, but obviously scoring goals is my way of playing football, so I’m really happy with it,” Jota told BT Sport.

Eyebrows were raised when Liverpool splashed a reported 41 million pounds ($54 million) to secure the signature of Jota, who scored 16 goals - nine of them in the Europa League - for Wolves last season.

He has already begun paying back that fee in earnest with seven goals in 10 games, and he tormented the Atalanta defence together with Mane and Salah.

“Obviously (they are) two world-class players, we all know their quality makes it easy for me to do my job because they are outstanding players,” he explained.

Jota is swiftly developing a taste for European competition having scored three hat-tricks in the Champions League and Europa League combined since the start of last season - the only player to have done so more than once.

With a trip to Manchester City to come on Sunday, the Portuguese picked the perfect moment to stake his claim to a starting spot.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp hailed Jota’s recent form but said Firmino’s influence on the team’s success should not be forgotten.

“Good performances never give me headaches ... The world is sometimes a really bad place that in the moment when somebody is shining, we speak immediately about another player who played for us, it feels like, 500 games in a row,” Klopp said.

“We would not be in the Champions League if Firmino would not be with us. And immediately I have to explain why he is not in the team.

“It’s important we have more than 11 players and tonight Diogo used his shape in an incredible way and played a super, super game. But that says nothing about Bobby and has nothing to do with causing me headaches.”

Diogo Jota’s superb hat-trick lit up Liverpool’s 5-0 Champions League thrashing of Atalanta on Tuesday and served further notice to the club’s famed frontline that the Portuguese striker does not intend to play solely a supporting role.

Diogo Jota’s superb hat-trick lit up Liverpool’s 5-0 Champions League thrashing of Atalanta on Tuesday and served further notice to the club’s famed frontline that the Portuguese striker does not intend to play solely a supporting role. Liverpool face Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday and it now seems almost unthinkable that Jota’s name will not be in the starting lineup. That may have seemed unlikely at the start of the season when Liverpool signed the 23-year-old from Wolverhampton Wanderers to provide competition to Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, who had developed into one of the most feared attacking trios in football. With Firmino’s form under the spotlight after an underwhelming start to the campaign, Jota slotted in alongside Salah and Mane against Atalanta and put on a clinical display of finishing before being replaced by Firmino in the 65th minute. “I’m playing in the best team of my career so far, that’s for sure. I don’t know if it was my best moment, but obviously scoring goals is my way of playing football, so I’m really happy with it,” Jota told BT Sport. Eyebrows were raised when Liverpool splashed a reported 41 million pounds ($54 million) to secure the signature of Jota, who scored 16 goals - nine of them in the Europa League - for Wolves last season. He has already begun paying back that fee in earnest with seven goals in 10 games, and he tormented the Atalanta defence together with Mane and Salah. “Obviously (they are) two world-class players, we all know their quality makes it easy for me to do my job because they are outstanding players,” he explained. Jota is swiftly developing a taste for European competition having scored three hat-tricks in the Champions League and Europa League combined since the start of last season - the only player to have done so more than once. With a trip to Manchester City to come on Sunday, the Portuguese picked the perfect moment to stake his claim to a starting spot. Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp hailed Jota’s recent form but said Firmino’s influence on the team’s success should not be forgotten. “Good performances never give me headaches ... The world is sometimes a really bad place that in the moment when somebody is shining, we speak immediately about another player who played for us, it feels like, 500 games in a row,” Klopp said. “We would not be in the Champions League if Firmino would not be with us. And immediately I have to explain why he is not in the team. “It’s important we have more than 11 players and tonight Diogo used his shape in an incredible way and played a super, super game. But that says nothing about Bobby and has nothing to do with causing me headaches.”

Jota shows pedigree with terrific treble in Italy

Diogo Jota capped Liverpool's dramatic fightback as the Premier League champions beat West Ham 2-1 to move three points clear at the top, while Manchester City and Chelsea both won to keep in touch with the leaders on Saturday.

Jurgen Klopp's side were rocked by Pablo Fornals' early strike at Anfield as the West Ham midfielder punished a poor header from Joe Gomez in the 10th minute.

The Reds drew level in the 42nd minute when Mohamed Salah was fouled by Arthur Masuaku and the Egyptian stepped up to convert the penalty for his eighth goal of the season.

Liverpool thought they had claimed the lead with just over 10 minutes remaining when substitute Jota turned in a loose ball.

Jota had pounced after Lukasz Fabianski saved Sadio Mane's shot but after a lengthy delay that saw referee Kevin Friend make use of the pitchside monitor, the goal was ruled out for a foul by the Senegal winger.

In the 85th minute, Jota ran onto Xherdan Shaqiri's pass to score his fourth goal since joining from Wolves in September.

It was Liverpool's fourth successive victory since influential defender Virgil van Dijk was sidelined for several months with a serious knee injury suffered against Everton.

Despite their defensive issues this term, Liverpool have opened up a three-point lead over second placed Everton, with their Merseyside rivals in action at Newcastle on Sunday.

"It's not about shining, or flying, or whatever, it's about hard work. That was absolutely necessary against this opponent," Klopp said after Liverpool equalled their club record of 63 home league games unbeaten.

"We had a lot of good football, not 500 chances or whatever but enough. I want to see us dig in and we did that, and I'm so happy."

While Liverpool were completing their win, government officials confirmed the Premier League could continue despite a new national lockdown that will last until at least December.

"The world is in a difficult place and we are happy to be allowed to play football," Klopp said.

Title rivals City have yet to hit the free-scoring form of Pep Guardiola's side at their best, as for the third consecutive league game they were held to a solitary goal.

But Kyle Walker's long-range strike against his former club was good enough to earn a 1-0 win at goal-shy Sheffield United.

It was his first goal for a year in his 100th Premier League appearance for City.

A fourth win in five games in all competition edges City up to eighth, five points behind Liverpool.

And there was another boost for City after the game as Guardiola ruled out a return to Barcelona despite interest from presidential candidates at the Catalan giants to bring the club's most successful ever coach back to the Camp Nou.

"I said many times, my period as a manager in Barcelona is over," said Guardiola, whose contract at the Etihad expires at the end of the season.

"I am incredibly happy here, still I have the desire to do well and this is the most important thing."

<h2>- Chelsea hit their stride -</h2>

Chelsea are also finding their form after a slow start to the season as Frank Lampard's men ran out 3-0 winners at Burnley to stretch their unbeaten run to nine games.

Hakim Ziyech was handed his first Premier League start after scoring in a 4-0 Champions League win away to Krasnodar in midweek and the Moroccan's shot wrong-footed Nick Pope to open the floodgates for the visitors on 26 minutes.

Kurt Zouma's bullet header then doubled Chelsea's advantage from Mason Mount's corner just after the hour mark.

Timo Werner was due to be rested until an injury in the warm-up to Christian Pulisic forced the German international into Lampard's line-up.

And Werner rounded off an excellent second-half performance from the Blues with a fine finish from Ziyech's pass.

After much criticism of his side's defending, Lampard will be equally delighted at a fourth straight clean sheet as Chelsea moved up to fourth place.

Diogo Jota capped Liverpool's dramatic fightback as the Premier League champions beat West Ham 2-1 to move three points clear at the top, while Manchester City and Chelsea both won to keep in touch with the leaders on Saturday.

Diogo Jota capped Liverpool's dramatic fightback as the Premier League champions beat West Ham 2-1 to move three points clear at the top, while Manchester City and Chelsea both won to keep in touch with the leaders on Saturday. Jurgen Klopp's side were rocked by Pablo Fornals' early strike at Anfield as the West Ham midfielder punished a poor header from Joe Gomez in the 10th minute. The Reds drew level in the 42nd minute when Mohamed Salah was fouled by Arthur Masuaku and the Egyptian stepped up to convert the penalty for his eighth goal of the season. Liverpool thought they had claimed the lead with just over 10 minutes remaining when substitute Jota turned in a loose ball. Jota had pounced after Lukasz Fabianski saved Sadio Mane's shot but after a lengthy delay that saw referee Kevin Friend make use of the pitchside monitor, the goal was ruled out for a foul by the Senegal winger. In the 85th minute, Jota ran onto Xherdan Shaqiri's pass to score his fourth goal since joining from Wolves in September. It was Liverpool's fourth successive victory since influential defender Virgil van Dijk was sidelined for several months with a serious knee injury suffered against Everton. Despite their defensive issues this term, Liverpool have opened up a three-point lead over second placed Everton, with their Merseyside rivals in action at Newcastle on Sunday. "It's not about shining, or flying, or whatever, it's about hard work. That was absolutely necessary against this opponent," Klopp said after Liverpool equalled their club record of 63 home league games unbeaten. "We had a lot of good football, not 500 chances or whatever but enough. I want to see us dig in and we did that, and I'm so happy." While Liverpool were completing their win, government officials confirmed the Premier League could continue despite a new national lockdown that will last until at least December. "The world is in a difficult place and we are happy to be allowed to play football," Klopp said. Title rivals City have yet to hit the free-scoring form of Pep Guardiola's side at their best, as for the third consecutive league game they were held to a solitary goal. But Kyle Walker's long-range strike against his former club was good enough to earn a 1-0 win at goal-shy Sheffield United. It was his first goal for a year in his 100th Premier League appearance for City. A fourth win in five games in all competition edges City up to eighth, five points behind Liverpool. And there was another boost for City after the game as Guardiola ruled out a return to Barcelona despite interest from presidential candidates at the Catalan giants to bring the club's most successful ever coach back to the Camp Nou. "I said many times, my period as a manager in Barcelona is over," said Guardiola, whose contract at the Etihad expires at the end of the season. "I am incredibly happy here, still I have the desire to do well and this is the most important thing." - Chelsea hit their stride - Chelsea are also finding their form after a slow start to the season as Frank Lampard's men ran out 3-0 winners at Burnley to stretch their unbeaten run to nine games. Hakim Ziyech was handed his first Premier League start after scoring in a 4-0 Champions League win away to Krasnodar in midweek and the Moroccan's shot wrong-footed Nick Pope to open the floodgates for the visitors on 26 minutes. Kurt Zouma's bullet header then doubled Chelsea's advantage from Mason Mount's corner just after the hour mark. Timo Werner was due to be rested until an injury in the warm-up to Christian Pulisic forced the German international into Lampard's line-up. And Werner rounded off an excellent second-half performance from the Blues with a fine finish from Ziyech's pass. After much criticism of his side's defending, Lampard will be equally delighted at a fourth straight clean sheet as Chelsea moved up to fourth place.

Jota caps Liverpool fightback as Man City, Chelsea win

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool have accepted £45 million ($58 million) for Wolves forward Diogo Jota. This transfer deal comes with the 23-year-old set to head to Melwood on Saturday to undergo a medical before completing the deal.

The deal will include Dutch defender Ki-Jana Hoever who will move to Wolves for £10 million (with add-ons).

Jota left Wolves before a Carabao Cup fixture against Stoke City on Thursday. He was an unused substitute at the weekend in the 2-0 win at Sheffield United. Whereas, the 18-year-old Ki-Jana has played four times for Jurgen Klopp's side, can play right wing-back, right-back and centre-back.

The defender joined the Reds from Ajax in 2018, and last year, Ki-Jaana signed a new long-term contract at Anfield.

The deal with Wolves for Ki-Jaana is yet to be finalised between the two clubs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Premier League club Liverpool on Friday announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich for a reported fee of £20 million ($26 million).

Thiago agreed upon a “long-term contract” with the Premier League champions after ending his seven-year stay with German giants Bayern Munich. Thiago comes with a massive reputation of being one of the top midfielders and was in excellent form in the 2019-20 season where he helped Bayern Munich lift the treble of UEFA Champions League, Bundesliga trophy and German Cup.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool have accepted £45 million ($58 million) for Wolves forward Diogo Jota. This transfer deal comes with the 23-year-old set to head to Melwood on Saturday to undergo a medical before completing the deal.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool have accepted £45 million ($58 million) for Wolves forward Diogo Jota. This transfer deal comes with the 23-year-old set to head to Melwood on Saturday to undergo a medical before completing the deal. The deal will include Dutch defender Ki-Jana Hoever who will move to Wolves for £10 million (with add-ons). Jota left Wolves before a Carabao Cup fixture against Stoke City on Thursday. He was an unused substitute at the weekend in the 2-0 win at Sheffield United. Whereas, the 18-year-old Ki-Jana has played four times for Jurgen Klopp's side, can play right wing-back, right-back and centre-back. The defender joined the Reds from Ajax in 2018, and last year, Ki-Jaana signed a new long-term contract at Anfield. The deal with Wolves for Ki-Jaana is yet to be finalised between the two clubs. Earlier, Premier League club Liverpool on Friday announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich for a reported fee of £20 million ($26 million). Thiago agreed upon a “long-term contract” with the Premier League champions after ending his seven-year stay with German giants Bayern Munich. Thiago comes with a massive reputation of being one of the top midfielders and was in excellent form in the 2019-20 season where he helped Bayern Munich lift the treble of UEFA Champions League, Bundesliga trophy and German Cup.

Premier League: Liverpool agree $58 million deal for Wolves forward Diogo Jota

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