Aaron Ramsey netted a beautiful and well-constructed goal in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-run-riot-in-second-half-to-win-5-1-at-fulham-170034">Arsenal's 5-1 win over Fulham</a> on Sunday, which is definitely a contender for goal of the season.

The wonder goal has proved why Ramsey's stay with the Gunners is important and why he will be such a loss if, as expected, he leaves the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

The goal was conceptualised by the 27-year-old midfielder, who began and ended a wonderful free-flowing move, just 39 seconds after coming on as a 67th-minute substitute.

Earlier, Arsenal's manager&nbsp;Unai Emery remained tight-lipped about a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/midfielder-aaron-ramsey-unsure-of-arsenal-future-154701">new deal for Ramsey</a> and a contract offer to the midfielder was withdrawn last month.

Irrespective of that, Ramsey showed his quality when he created and finished a stunning team move to help Arsenal to a ninth straight win in all competitions - their best run since April 2015.

First, he dinked the ball over a defender deep in his own half before running on to make two key headers around the halfway line to allow the push forward to keep its momentum.

Finally, he met Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's low cross with a delicate flick with the inside of his boot to beat Marcus Bettinelli in the Fulham goal and conjure memories of the sort of goals Dutch great Johan Cruyff used to score.

Watch the goal here:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
What a team goal from <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arsenal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aaronramsey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aaronramsey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ramsey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ramsey</a> makes it 3-1! <a href="https://t.co/FWphwcZ0i3">pic.twitter.com/FWphwcZ0i3</a>
— Atilla Otaner (@atillaotaner) <a href="https://twitter.com/atillaotaner/status/1049081876923789320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sauce from the beginning to the end. <a href="https://twitter.com/aaronramsey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aaronramsey</a> <a href="https://t.co/Lce6F0fOOb">pic.twitter.com/Lce6F0fOOb</a>
— mk (@MkJustSaid) <a href="https://twitter.com/MkJustSaid/status/1049003851435716608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"It was an important goal for Aaron and an important goal for us," said manager Unai Emery with more than a touch of understatement.

"The best performer for us is every player."

Although Emery has said he would like to keep Ramsey, but he is clearly not short of midfield options, with Alex Iwobi impressing before being replaced by the Welshman and Germany's Mesut Ozil to come back in after missing Sunday's game with an injury.

"I believe in us, we believe in our process but also we must keep taking confidence. I think we are in the first competition in the war. It is very difficult but we must prepare, continue improving and show big commitment," said Emery.

Aaron Ramsey netted a beautiful and well-constructed goal in Arsenal's 5-1 win over Fulham on Sunday, which is definitely a contender for goal of the season. The wonder goal has proved why Ramsey's stay with the Gunners is important and why he will be such a loss if, as expected, he leaves the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Aaron Ramsey netted a beautiful and well-constructed goal in Arsenal's 5-1 win over Fulham on Sunday, which is definitely a contender for goal of the season. The wonder goal has proved why Ramsey's stay with the Gunners is important and why he will be such a loss if, as expected, he leaves the club when his contract expires at the end of the season. The goal was conceptualised by the 27-year-old midfielder, who began and ended a wonderful free-flowing move, just 39 seconds after coming on as a 67th-minute substitute. Earlier, Arsenal's manager Unai Emery remained tight-lipped about a new deal for Ramsey and a contract offer to the midfielder was withdrawn last month. Irrespective of that, Ramsey showed his quality when he created and finished a stunning team move to help Arsenal to a ninth straight win in all competitions - their best run since April 2015. First, he dinked the ball over a defender deep in his own half before running on to make two key headers around the halfway line to allow the push forward to keep its momentum. Finally, he met Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's low cross with a delicate flick with the inside of his boot to beat Marcus Bettinelli in the Fulham goal and conjure memories of the sort of goals Dutch great Johan Cruyff used to score. Watch the goal here: What a team goal from @Arsenal @aaronramsey #Ramsey makes it 3-1! pic.twitter.com/FWphwcZ0i3 — Atilla Otaner (@atillaotaner) October 7, 2018 × Sauce from the beginning to the end. @aaronramsey pic.twitter.com/Lce6F0fOOb — mk (@MkJustSaid) October 7, 2018 × "It was an important goal for Aaron and an important goal for us," said manager Unai Emery with more than a touch of understatement. "The best performer for us is every player." Although Emery has said he would like to keep Ramsey, but he is clearly not short of midfield options, with Alex Iwobi impressing before being replaced by the Welshman and Germany's Mesut Ozil to come back in after missing Sunday's game with an injury. "I believe in us, we believe in our process but also we must keep taking confidence. I think we are in the first competition in the war. It is very difficult but we must prepare, continue improving and show big commitment," said Emery.

Watch: Aaron Ramsey's wonder goal for Arsenal against Fulham

Chelsea lost their 100 percent Premier League record when London rivals West Ham United held them to a 0-0 draw on Sunday.&nbsp;

Needing a two-goal win to depose Liverpool at the top of the table, Chelsea struggled to make clear chances despite having the majority of possession and stayed third behind the Merseysiders and champions Manchester City.

The home side could have punished them but Michail Antonio, who was deputising for the injured Marko Arnautovic, missed two first-half chances and Andriy Yarmolenko headed wastefully wide.

West Ham, with only one win so far from their six matches, remain 17th, one place above the relegation zone.&nbsp;

Despite having barely 30 percent of possession in the first half, West Ham finally came alive after 30 minutes with two good chances for Antonio.&nbsp;

Sent through by record signing Felipe Anderson he shot too high but then forced goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga into a good save after being set up by Yarmolenko.

For all their dominance, Chelsea made barely one real opportunity before the interval when N'Golo Kante arrived to head wide from Willian's smart volleyed cross.

In the second half it was two of Chelsea's substitutes who went closest. Alvaro Morata's first attempt hit goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski in the face and later Ross Barkley's curler was also kept out by the home goalkeeper.&nbsp;

Chelsea's third substitute was experienced defender Gary Cahill, getting a first opportunity under new manager Maurizio Sarri when replacing the injured Antonio Rudiger.&nbsp;

The best chance of the game, however, fell West Ham's way when Yarmolenko was alone at the far post to meet a perfect cross from Robert Snodgrass, but put his header wide.&nbsp;

After losing their first four games but winning at Everton last weekend, West Ham are showing signs of improvement.

"Signing nine players and with a new manager it was always going to be difficult," Antonio told Sky Sports.

"Now we're starting to gel."

That new man in charge, the Chilean Manuel Pellegrini, understandably felt his side were well worth their first home point of the season.

"A good point in a very close game," he said. "We played a good tactical game, defended well and created some chances.

"If you don't score (from) your chances, you must pay. But if you don't win, then don't lose."&nbsp;

Chelsea have another chance to knock Liverpool off the top when they play them at Stamford Bridge on Saturday -- three days after the clubs meet in the League Cup at Anfield.

Manager Sarri is likely to make a number of changes on Wednesday but will want to see greater energy and more penetration in the league game after Sunday's subdued performance.

"Today was a very difficult match," he said.

"West Ham are a very good team and after they won at Everton they had confidence."

Chelsea lost their 100 percent Premier League record when London rivals West Ham United held them to a 0-0 draw on Sunday. Needing a two-goal win to depose Liverpool at the top of the table, Chelsea struggled to make clear chances despite having the majority of possession and stayed third behind the Merseysiders and champions Manchester City.

Chelsea lost their 100 percent Premier League record when London rivals West Ham United held them to a 0-0 draw on Sunday. Needing a two-goal win to depose Liverpool at the top of the table, Chelsea struggled to make clear chances despite having the majority of possession and stayed third behind the Merseysiders and champions Manchester City. The home side could have punished them but Michail Antonio, who was deputising for the injured Marko Arnautovic, missed two first-half chances and Andriy Yarmolenko headed wastefully wide. West Ham, with only one win so far from their six matches, remain 17th, one place above the relegation zone. Despite having barely 30 percent of possession in the first half, West Ham finally came alive after 30 minutes with two good chances for Antonio. Sent through by record signing Felipe Anderson he shot too high but then forced goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga into a good save after being set up by Yarmolenko. For all their dominance, Chelsea made barely one real opportunity before the interval when N'Golo Kante arrived to head wide from Willian's smart volleyed cross. In the second half it was two of Chelsea's substitutes who went closest. Alvaro Morata's first attempt hit goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski in the face and later Ross Barkley's curler was also kept out by the home goalkeeper. Chelsea's third substitute was experienced defender Gary Cahill, getting a first opportunity under new manager Maurizio Sarri when replacing the injured Antonio Rudiger. The best chance of the game, however, fell West Ham's way when Yarmolenko was alone at the far post to meet a perfect cross from Robert Snodgrass, but put his header wide. After losing their first four games but winning at Everton last weekend, West Ham are showing signs of improvement. "Signing nine players and with a new manager it was always going to be difficult," Antonio told Sky Sports. "Now we're starting to gel." That new man in charge, the Chilean Manuel Pellegrini, understandably felt his side were well worth their first home point of the season. "A good point in a very close game," he said. "We played a good tactical game, defended well and created some chances. "If you don't score (from) your chances, you must pay. But if you don't win, then don't lose." Chelsea have another chance to knock Liverpool off the top when they play them at Stamford Bridge on Saturday -- three days after the clubs meet in the League Cup at Anfield. Manager Sarri is likely to make a number of changes on Wednesday but will want to see greater energy and more penetration in the league game after Sunday's subdued performance. "Today was a very difficult match," he said. "West Ham are a very good team and after they won at Everton they had confidence."

Chelsea drop first points with 0-0 draw at West Ham

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola returns to the touchline for the Premier League champions' visit to Cardiff City looking for his team to recover from a shock midweek home defeat to Lyon.

The City manager, serving a one-match UEFA suspension for being sent to the stands in last season's quarter-final defeat to Liverpool, watched in horror from the stands as a dismal first-half display led to defeat against the French side.

After accumulating 100 points in the Premier League last season, winning the Champions League for the first time in City's history is the next goal for Guardiola.

Yet, an unexpected defeat to begin their European campaign exposed City's failure to add reinforcements to arguably the only area of the pitch where they lack genuine strength in depth.

Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho has been inspirational for City in his five seasons in the Premier League but he was at fault in the build-up to both Lyon goals on Wednesday.

The 33-year-old may be due a break in the Welsh capital this weekend having played every minute of City’s seven games so far in the new campaign

But Guardiola has no natural replacement after missing out on his pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Jorginho, who instead chose to follow his former Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri to Stamford Bridge.

City’s failure to land an alternative has seen Guardiola enter the new season short of cover for a crucial position in his 4-3-3 system.

Instead, City spent a club record fee on further strengthening their attacking options, signing Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez from Leicester for £60 million (67.5m euros).

Despite the loss of Belgian playmaker Kevin De Bruyne through injury, Mahrez has started just two league games so far and not yet completed a full 90 minutes for Guardiola.

Magnificent in Leicester’s title-winning season of 2015-16, Mahrez is not the first new signing to have required time to adapt to Guardiola’s demanding ways.

But, in hindsight, a different type of midfield player might have been a better acquisition for City this summer even if his manager has no doubts that he will prove a long-term success at his club.

"Riyad is going to come back to the same form we saw when he was with Leicester," insisted Guardiola, citing Bernardo Silva's stunning start to the campaign after a year to bed into City's system.

Silva scored his side's goal in midweek and is likely to retain his place, but Guardiola is expected to make changes in his search for a reaction against a Cardiff side still looking for their first victory since returning to the top flight.

Sergio Aguero and Leroy Sane are expected to return after impressing off the bench against Lyon.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola returns to the touchline for the Premier League champions' visit to Cardiff City looking for his team to recover from a shock midweek home defeat to Lyon.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola returns to the touchline for the Premier League champions' visit to Cardiff City looking for his team to recover from a shock midweek home defeat to Lyon. The City manager, serving a one-match UEFA suspension for being sent to the stands in last season's quarter-final defeat to Liverpool, watched in horror from the stands as a dismal first-half display led to defeat against the French side. After accumulating 100 points in the Premier League last season, winning the Champions League for the first time in City's history is the next goal for Guardiola. Yet, an unexpected defeat to begin their European campaign exposed City's failure to add reinforcements to arguably the only area of the pitch where they lack genuine strength in depth. Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho has been inspirational for City in his five seasons in the Premier League but he was at fault in the build-up to both Lyon goals on Wednesday. The 33-year-old may be due a break in the Welsh capital this weekend having played every minute of City’s seven games so far in the new campaign But Guardiola has no natural replacement after missing out on his pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Jorginho, who instead chose to follow his former Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri to Stamford Bridge. City’s failure to land an alternative has seen Guardiola enter the new season short of cover for a crucial position in his 4-3-3 system. Instead, City spent a club record fee on further strengthening their attacking options, signing Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez from Leicester for £60 million (67.5m euros). Despite the loss of Belgian playmaker Kevin De Bruyne through injury, Mahrez has started just two league games so far and not yet completed a full 90 minutes for Guardiola. Magnificent in Leicester’s title-winning season of 2015-16, Mahrez is not the first new signing to have required time to adapt to Guardiola’s demanding ways. But, in hindsight, a different type of midfield player might have been a better acquisition for City this summer even if his manager has no doubts that he will prove a long-term success at his club. "Riyad is going to come back to the same form we saw when he was with Leicester," insisted Guardiola, citing Bernardo Silva's stunning start to the campaign after a year to bed into City's system. Silva scored his side's goal in midweek and is likely to retain his place, but Guardiola is expected to make changes in his search for a reaction against a Cardiff side still looking for their first victory since returning to the top flight. Sergio Aguero and Leroy Sane are expected to return after impressing off the bench against Lyon.

Guardiola returns as Man City seek to restore order at Cardiff

Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle as Liverpool easily beat Brighton.

It left last year's champions with only Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United to redeem a season in which they have finished a poor fifth.

Manager Antonio Conte made eight changes with the final in mind and saw an unimpressive performance.

Newcastle deservedly ended a run of four successive defeats under former Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez to earn a top-10 finish.

Dwight Gayle scored the opening goal in the first half and Spanish striker Ayoze Perez added the second and third after the break.

Conte agreed his team had looked "less determined" than Newcastle.

"At the start, we lost every single ball," he said. "To finish this way is not good. But if we didn't have this will and desire, I'm the first person to answer (for it)."

The Italian was defiant about reports that he will leave in the close season.

"I have a contract and I'm committed for this club," he insisted.

Benitez was delighted to finish on a high for his club's supporters and make the top half of the table 12 months after coming up from the Championship.

"When you have the fans behind the team all season, this is the best way to finish," he told Sky Sports.

"With good spells and bad spells through the season we are happy to finish 10th."

Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle

Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle as Liverpool easily beat Brighton. It left last year's champions with only Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United to redeem a season in which they have finished a poor fifth. Manager Antonio Conte made eight changes with the final in mind and saw an unimpressive performance. Newcastle deservedly ended a run of four successive defeats under former Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez to earn a top-10 finish. Dwight Gayle scored the opening goal in the first half and Spanish striker Ayoze Perez added the second and third after the break. Conte agreed his team had looked "less determined" than Newcastle. "At the start, we lost every single ball," he said. "To finish this way is not good. But if we didn't have this will and desire, I'm the first person to answer (for it)." The Italian was defiant about reports that he will leave in the close season. "I have a contract and I'm committed for this club," he insisted. Benitez was delighted to finish on a high for his club's supporters and make the top half of the table 12 months after coming up from the Championship. "When you have the fans behind the team all season, this is the best way to finish," he told Sky Sports. "With good spells and bad spells through the season we are happy to finish 10th."

Chelsea miss out on Champions League

Manchester City celebrated winning the English Premier League at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday (May 6) following their 0-0 draw against Huddersfield Town.

City captain Vincent Kompany was surrounded by coaching staff and fellow players as he lifted the trophy with thousands of fans watching on in the stands.

Manager Pep Guardiola was thrown into the air by the players during the celebration. All the players were congratulating each other for a successful league run.

When players walked up to the stage to collect the trophy Toure was given the biggest cheer. When the mid-fielder Yaya Toure arrived on the stage to collect the trophy, his fellow teammates jumped on him and a blooper happened. The prestigious trophy fell off its perch and onto the grass.

Watch the video:

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My favorite video from yesterday's presentation. City players drop the PL trophy and react as if someone dropped a bomb. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/NYhegUdPJm">pic.twitter.com/NYhegUdPJm</a>
— Adil (@adilkhalil_) <a href="https://twitter.com/adilkhalil_/status/993334268700045317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

When the mid-fielder Yaya Toure arrived on the stage to collect the trophy, his fellow teammates jumped on him and a blooper happened

Manchester City celebrated winning the English Premier League at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday (May 6) following their 0-0 draw against Huddersfield Town. City captain Vincent Kompany was surrounded by coaching staff and fellow players as he lifted the trophy with thousands of fans watching on in the stands. Manager Pep Guardiola was thrown into the air by the players during the celebration. All the players were congratulating each other for a successful league run. When players walked up to the stage to collect the trophy Toure was given the biggest cheer. When the mid-fielder Yaya Toure arrived on the stage to collect the trophy, his fellow teammates jumped on him and a blooper happened. The prestigious trophy fell off its perch and onto the grass. Watch the video: My favorite video from yesterday's presentation. City players drop the PL trophy and react as if someone dropped a bomb. #MCFC pic.twitter.com/NYhegUdPJm — Adil (@adilkhalil_) May 7, 2018 ×

Manchester City players show how NOT to celebrate after winning EPL

Champions Manchester City will have to wait to break the Premier League points record after they were held to a 0-0 draw by Huddersfield Town at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

City, who lifted the Premier League trophy in front of their fans after the match, mustered only two shots on target all game, as relegation-threatened Huddersfield dug in for a vital point.

The draw means City have 94 points, one short of the season record set by Chelsea back in 2004-05, but they still have two games left to play.

Huddersfield gave their survival hopes a huge boost with a point that moves them three clear of the bottom three ahead of their midweek trip to Chelsea.

"England is a special place and is so tough,” City manager Pep Guardiola said after the match. “Today we saw it. You never know if you are going to win, but I had no doubt what I had to do.”

Guardiola handed John Stones his first Premier League start since January in defence, and the England international was immediately put under pressure by a determined Huddersfield side.

City goalkeeper Ederson was forced into the first meaningful save of the game 11 minutes in, but Florent Hadergjonaj should really have done better from a good position.

Hadergjonaj then found Alex Pritchard on the edge of the box, who again forced Ederson into a smart stop. City, however, failed to mount any sort of attack.

City improved after the break, as Guardiola shuffled his pack, but a poor final pass and brave defending from the visitors kept the champions at bay.

As the game went into stoppage time, Huddersfield backed off and that tactic almost proved costly as Nicolas Otamendi curled just wide.

The visitors held on for a crucial point, meaning City must wait for that points record. On an afternoon of celebration at the Etihad, the champions will not be too downbeat about the result.

“This gives us belief (that Huddersfield can stay up) but to be totally honest I’ve had belief in this group of players since pre-season,” Huddersfield manager David Wagner said. “Every player and member of the backroom staff believes."

Champions Manchester City will have to wait to break the Premier League points record after they were held to a 0-0 draw by Huddersfield Town

Champions Manchester City will have to wait to break the Premier League points record after they were held to a 0-0 draw by Huddersfield Town at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. City, who lifted the Premier League trophy in front of their fans after the match, mustered only two shots on target all game, as relegation-threatened Huddersfield dug in for a vital point. The draw means City have 94 points, one short of the season record set by Chelsea back in 2004-05, but they still have two games left to play. Huddersfield gave their survival hopes a huge boost with a point that moves them three clear of the bottom three ahead of their midweek trip to Chelsea. "England is a special place and is so tough,” City manager Pep Guardiola said after the match. “Today we saw it. You never know if you are going to win, but I had no doubt what I had to do.” Guardiola handed John Stones his first Premier League start since January in defence, and the England international was immediately put under pressure by a determined Huddersfield side. City goalkeeper Ederson was forced into the first meaningful save of the game 11 minutes in, but Florent Hadergjonaj should really have done better from a good position. Hadergjonaj then found Alex Pritchard on the edge of the box, who again forced Ederson into a smart stop. City, however, failed to mount any sort of attack. City improved after the break, as Guardiola shuffled his pack, but a poor final pass and brave defending from the visitors kept the champions at bay. As the game went into stoppage time, Huddersfield backed off and that tactic almost proved costly as Nicolas Otamendi curled just wide. The visitors held on for a crucial point, meaning City must wait for that points record. On an afternoon of celebration at the Etihad, the champions will not be too downbeat about the result. “This gives us belief (that Huddersfield can stay up) but to be totally honest I’ve had belief in this group of players since pre-season,” Huddersfield manager David Wagner said. “Every player and member of the backroom staff believes."

Huddersfield boost survival hopes with goalless draw at Man City

Liverpool's hopes of virtually securing a top-four Premier League spot were frustrated by a battling Stoke City side who restricted the usually free-scoring Reds to a goalless draw at Anfield on Saturday.

But Stoke's hard-won point may not be enough to secure the visitors' survival after Southampton, West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace all won. With Swansea City due to play Chelsea later on Saturday, the fight for positions at both ends of the table will go to the final day.

Liverpool, who still have to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, lead the Blues by nine points with two games in hand although superior goal difference may prove decisive for Juergen Klopp's side.

Domestic finishing position would, of course, prove academic if Liverpool win the Champions League. They certainly looked like a side with their semi-final second leg in Rome on their mind as they failed to make the most of 72 per cent possession against visitors who had never won a league game at Anfield.

Even 43-goal Mohamed Salah had an off-day, marking the first time since Boxing Day that the Egyptian had failed to score after starting at home.

Liverpool, who made five changes from their semi-final first leg in midweek, felt they deserved a late penalty after Erik Pieters handled in an incident similar to the one that led to James Milner conceding a spot-kick against AS Roma.

"We had to make changes, that is always a bit of a rhythm breaker, in the final third everything is instinct between the regulars, and we missed a bit of that," said Klopp, who added Liverpool had not sustained any further injuries.

LATE HEROICS

Elsewhere, Southampton gave themselves a shot at safety by beating south coast rivals Bournemouth 2-1 with two goals from Dusan Tadic. Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy proved the real hero with a late save from Ryan Fraser, whose fierce shot looked destined for the net.

Bottom side West Brom continue to defy relegation after Matt Phillips' first-half shot gave them a 1-0 win at Newcastle United, their eighth point from four games under caretaker manager Darren Moore.

Heartening as the win was, a Swansea victory later on Saturday would still end Albion's eight-year top-flight stay.

Palace all but guaranteed their safety after thumping Leicester City 5-0, a result that will do little to halt the speculation over Claude Puel's future as Foxes' manager.

Wilfried Zaha scored Palace's first and laid on their second for James McArthur while substitute Christian Benteke rounded off the rout with a penalty.

Roy Hodgson's side are now six points clear of the drop zone although they have played one more match than four teams below them. Among them are Brighton & Hove Albion, who drew 0-0 with Burnley, and Huddersfield Town, who lost 2-0 at home to Everton.

Although Huddersfield are three points clear of 18th-placed Southampton, their run-in is difficult with trips to Manchester City and Chelsea and a home game against Arsenal, which will be Arsene Wenger's final match in charge of the Gunners.

Liverpool's hopes of virtually securing a top-four Premier League spot were frustrated by a battling Stoke City side who restricted the usually free-scoring Reds to a goalless draw at Anfield on Saturday

Liverpool's hopes of virtually securing a top-four Premier League spot were frustrated by a battling Stoke City side who restricted the usually free-scoring Reds to a goalless draw at Anfield on Saturday. But Stoke's hard-won point may not be enough to secure the visitors' survival after Southampton, West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace all won. With Swansea City due to play Chelsea later on Saturday, the fight for positions at both ends of the table will go to the final day. Liverpool, who still have to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, lead the Blues by nine points with two games in hand although superior goal difference may prove decisive for Juergen Klopp's side. Domestic finishing position would, of course, prove academic if Liverpool win the Champions League. They certainly looked like a side with their semi-final second leg in Rome on their mind as they failed to make the most of 72 per cent possession against visitors who had never won a league game at Anfield. Even 43-goal Mohamed Salah had an off-day, marking the first time since Boxing Day that the Egyptian had failed to score after starting at home. Liverpool, who made five changes from their semi-final first leg in midweek, felt they deserved a late penalty after Erik Pieters handled in an incident similar to the one that led to James Milner conceding a spot-kick against AS Roma. "We had to make changes, that is always a bit of a rhythm breaker, in the final third everything is instinct between the regulars, and we missed a bit of that," said Klopp, who added Liverpool had not sustained any further injuries. LATE HEROICS Elsewhere, Southampton gave themselves a shot at safety by beating south coast rivals Bournemouth 2-1 with two goals from Dusan Tadic. Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy proved the real hero with a late save from Ryan Fraser, whose fierce shot looked destined for the net. Bottom side West Brom continue to defy relegation after Matt Phillips' first-half shot gave them a 1-0 win at Newcastle United, their eighth point from four games under caretaker manager Darren Moore. Heartening as the win was, a Swansea victory later on Saturday would still end Albion's eight-year top-flight stay. Palace all but guaranteed their safety after thumping Leicester City 5-0, a result that will do little to halt the speculation over Claude Puel's future as Foxes' manager. Wilfried Zaha scored Palace's first and laid on their second for James McArthur while substitute Christian Benteke rounded off the rout with a penalty. Roy Hodgson's side are now six points clear of the drop zone although they have played one more match than four teams below them. Among them are Brighton & Hove Albion, who drew 0-0 with Burnley, and Huddersfield Town, who lost 2-0 at home to Everton. Although Huddersfield are three points clear of 18th-placed Southampton, their run-in is difficult with trips to Manchester City and Chelsea and a home game against Arsenal, which will be Arsene Wenger's final match in charge of the Gunners.

EPL: Liverpool frustrated; Southampton and Palace boost survival chances

Arsene Wenger has spent almost 22 years with the club Arsenal and has announced his retirement on Friday. He said he will leave the club at the end of the season.

In 2017, Wenger had signed a two-year contract but now has overruled it, he said, "After careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the right time for me to step down at the end of the season."

The Frenchman also said, "I want to thank the staff, the players, the Directors and the fans who make this club so special."

He requested the fans for their love and support for the club and also asked them to take care of the values of the club.

In his statement he mentioned, "I urge our fans to stand behind the team to finish on a high. To all the Arsenal lovers take care of the values of the club."

<img alt="Arsene Wenger.JPG" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="690" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/Arsene%20Wenger.JPG" width="885" />

The 68-year-old concluded his statement by saying, "My love and support forever."

After his announcement to step down as the Arsenal's manager, Twitterati reacted with emotional and heartfelt messages.

See some tweets:

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Congratulations on an incredible 22-year career at Arsenal, Arsene Wenger, and best of luck for the rest of the season… apart from on your 60th game against us next Sunday ?
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/987292110301868033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bhyb6xEFYEz/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">Wow. I never expected that but it shows the great dignity and class of the man. I will never forget his guidance and support, his tutelage and mentorship. He had faith in me from day one and I owe him a lot, he was like a father figure to me who always pushed me to be the best. Arsene, you deserve all the respect and happiness in the world. #classact ??</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px margin-bottom:0 margin-top:8px overflow:hidden padding:8px 0 7px text-align:center text-overflow:ellipsis white-space:nowrap">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cescf4bregas/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Cesc Fàbregas</a> (@cescf4bregas) on <time datetime="2018-04-20T09:58:14+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">Apr 20, 2018 at 2:58am PDT</time>
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Arsene Wenger built the best teams that I played against in English Football .The 98 team was Amazing.The biggest compliment is that he played football that made us change the way we played against them. He now deserves the most incredible send off from all in the coming weeks.
— Gary Neville (@GNev2) <a href="https://twitter.com/GNev2/status/987257706858901505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sad day for <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arsenal</a> with Arsene leaving, can we now give him the send off/respect he deserves?!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rememberthetrophies?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rememberthetrophies</a>
— David Seaman (@thedavidseaman) <a href="https://twitter.com/thedavidseaman/status/987261862109679617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Where it all began for Arsene Wenger in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a>... <a href="https://t.co/gbhqBu9LTq">pic.twitter.com/gbhqBu9LTq</a>
— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/987305506904657921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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? Arsène Wenger at Arsenal ⚪️ 
 
Appointed manager: 1996 
Total games in charge (so far): 1,228 
Premier League: ??? 
FA Cup: ??????? 
Club legend ✔️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MerciArs%C3%A8ne?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MerciArsène</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UEL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UEL</a> <a href="https://t.co/GR4ac156la">pic.twitter.com/GR4ac156la</a>
— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/EuropaLeague/status/987297733680750594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Arsene Wenger is to leave Arsenal at the end of the season

Arsene Wenger has spent almost 22 years with the club Arsenal and has announced his retirement on Friday. He said he will leave the club at the end of the season. In 2017, Wenger had signed a two-year contract but now has overruled it, he said, "After careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the right time for me to step down at the end of the season." The Frenchman also said, "I want to thank the staff, the players, the Directors and the fans who make this club so special." He requested the fans for their love and support for the club and also asked them to take care of the values of the club. In his statement he mentioned, "I urge our fans to stand behind the team to finish on a high. To all the Arsenal lovers take care of the values of the club." The 68-year-old concluded his statement by saying, "My love and support forever." After his announcement to step down as the Arsenal's manager, Twitterati reacted with emotional and heartfelt messages. See some tweets: Congratulations on an incredible 22-year career at Arsenal, Arsene Wenger, and best of luck for the rest of the season… apart from on your 60th game against us next Sunday ? — Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 20, 2018 × Wow. I never expected that but it shows the great dignity and class of the man. I will never forget his guidance and support, his tutelage and mentorship. He had faith in me from day one and I owe him a lot, he was like a father figure to me who always pushed me to be the best. Arsene, you deserve all the respect and happiness in the world. #classact ?? A post shared by Cesc Fàbregas (@cescf4bregas) on Apr 20, 2018 at 2:58am PDT × Arsene Wenger built the best teams that I played against in English Football .The 98 team was Amazing.The biggest compliment is that he played football that made us change the way we played against them. He now deserves the most incredible send off from all in the coming weeks. — Gary Neville (@GNev2) April 20, 2018 × Sad day for @Arsenal with Arsene leaving, can we now give him the send off/respect he deserves?!! #rememberthetrophies — David Seaman (@thedavidseaman) April 20, 2018 × Where it all began for Arsene Wenger in the #PL... pic.twitter.com/gbhqBu9LTq — Premier League (@premierleague) April 20, 2018 × ? Arsène Wenger at Arsenal ⚪️ Appointed manager: 1996 Total games in charge (so far): 1,228 Premier League: ??? FA Cup: ??????? Club legend ✔️#MerciArsène #UEL pic.twitter.com/GR4ac156la — UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) April 20, 2018 ×

Arsene Wenger to quit as Arsenal manager - who's saying what

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is to stand down at the end of the season after a reign of almost 22 years that made him the most successful boss in the Premier League club's history.

The 68-year-old has been with the North Londoners since October 1996 and, with 1228 games in charge, is by far the longest-serving current manager in English soccer.

"After careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the right time for me to step down at the end of the season," the Frenchman said in a statement issued by the Gunners on Friday.

Wenger signed a two-year contract extension in 2017 and had said he planned to see it out.

He has faced mounting criticism, however, for the club's failure to sustain a serious title challenge in recent seasons, with some fans calling for him to be replaced.

The Gunners are a distant sixth in the league, 14 points adrift of fourth-placed North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur with five games remaining.

<img alt="Arsene Wenger.JPG" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Arsene%20Wenger.JPG" width="770" />

They are also in the semi-finals of the Europa League, however, which represents their only realistic route to the lucrative Champions League next season.

"I am grateful for having had the privilege to serve the club for so many memorable years. I managed the club with full commitment and integrity," said Wenger, who urged the fans to stand behind the team and end the season on a high.

The club said a successor would be appointed as soon as possible with German Thomas Tuchel, out of work since leaving Borussia Dortmund almost a year ago, installed as the early bookmakers' favourite.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MerciArs%C3%A8ne?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MerciArsène</a> <a href="https://t.co/h3XAQvr2pw">pic.twitter.com/h3XAQvr2pw</a>
— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/987272181880098816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Difficult Day

Arsenal's majority owner Stan Kroenke said it was "one of the most difficult days we have ever had in all our years in sport."

"One of the main reasons we got involved with Arsenal was because of what Arsene has brought to the club on and off the pitch," he said.

"His longevity and consistency over such a sustained period at the highest level of the game will never be matched."

Wenger won three Premier League titles, including in 2003-04 when 'The Invincibles' went unbeaten for an entire season, and seven FA Cups. He took Arsenal into the Champions League for 20 years in a row.

They won the league and FA cup double in 1998 and 2002.

"My personal situation is not so much my worry at the moment," he had told reporters on Thursday when asked about his future.

"My worry is to transform a season with many disappointments away from home into a success, and that’s what matters to me."

News of his decision drew a flood of tributes and reaction from throughout the game.

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— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/987265043355009024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"He is above Herbert Chapman and all of the guys who won trophies," former goalkeeper Bob Wilson told the BBC, adding that he was "shell-shocked" by the news.

"Arsene is not only the greatest manager in Arsenal's history, he has personally changed the face of the game in this country."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he respected the decision: "He is an influence in football. Had a fantastic career. Outstanding personality," the German told reporters.

"He was there for so long, 22 years is a long time. Maybe in the last few months not everybody was happy with this result or that... he was the dominating guy in the mid 1990s, 2000s."

Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman said it was a sad day for the club.

"Can we now give him the send off/respect he deserves," he asked on Twitter.

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— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/987258924897329152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is to stand down at the end of the season after a reign of almost 22 years that made him the most successful boss in the Premier League club's history

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is to stand down at the end of the season after a reign of almost 22 years that made him the most successful boss in the Premier League club's history. The 68-year-old has been with the North Londoners since October 1996 and, with 1228 games in charge, is by far the longest-serving current manager in English soccer. "After careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the right time for me to step down at the end of the season," the Frenchman said in a statement issued by the Gunners on Friday. Wenger signed a two-year contract extension in 2017 and had said he planned to see it out. He has faced mounting criticism, however, for the club's failure to sustain a serious title challenge in recent seasons, with some fans calling for him to be replaced. The Gunners are a distant sixth in the league, 14 points adrift of fourth-placed North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur with five games remaining. They are also in the semi-finals of the Europa League, however, which represents their only realistic route to the lucrative Champions League next season. "I am grateful for having had the privilege to serve the club for so many memorable years. I managed the club with full commitment and integrity," said Wenger, who urged the fans to stand behind the team and end the season on a high. The club said a successor would be appointed as soon as possible with German Thomas Tuchel, out of work since leaving Borussia Dortmund almost a year ago, installed as the early bookmakers' favourite. #MerciArsène pic.twitter.com/h3XAQvr2pw — Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) April 20, 2018 × Difficult Day Arsenal's majority owner Stan Kroenke said it was "one of the most difficult days we have ever had in all our years in sport." "One of the main reasons we got involved with Arsenal was because of what Arsene has brought to the club on and off the pitch," he said. "His longevity and consistency over such a sustained period at the highest level of the game will never be matched." Wenger won three Premier League titles, including in 2003-04 when 'The Invincibles' went unbeaten for an entire season, and seven FA Cups. He took Arsenal into the Champions League for 20 years in a row. They won the league and FA cup double in 1998 and 2002. "My personal situation is not so much my worry at the moment," he had told reporters on Thursday when asked about his future. "My worry is to transform a season with many disappointments away from home into a success, and that’s what matters to me." News of his decision drew a flood of tributes and reaction from throughout the game. #MerciArsène pic.twitter.com/bjP0wLMgee — Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) April 20, 2018 × "He is above Herbert Chapman and all of the guys who won trophies," former goalkeeper Bob Wilson told the BBC, adding that he was "shell-shocked" by the news. "Arsene is not only the greatest manager in Arsenal's history, he has personally changed the face of the game in this country." Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he respected the decision: "He is an influence in football. Had a fantastic career. Outstanding personality," the German told reporters. "He was there for so long, 22 years is a long time. Maybe in the last few months not everybody was happy with this result or that... he was the dominating guy in the mid 1990s, 2000s." Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman said it was a sad day for the club. "Can we now give him the send off/respect he deserves," he asked on Twitter. #MerciArsène pic.twitter.com/7wqOwveCfz — Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) April 20, 2018 ×

Arsene Wenger to step down as Arsenal manager

Newly crowned Premier League champions Manchester City need to continue winning trophies if they want to be regarded among the great teams of English top-flight football, defender Kyle Walker has said.

City won their third title in seven seasons with five games to spare on Sunday after a record-breaking campaign that has seen manager Pep Guardiola's side outclass their rivals, but Walker believes there is potential to do more.

"There is still a lot of room for improvement," England international Walker told BBC Radio 5 live. "I have read some articles that say we need to win things continuously for a number of years before we are classed as a great team.

"Every single one of us wants to be recognised as one of the greatest teams to play in the Premier League."

City's march to the title and their League Cup triumph in February has been offset by a shock FA Cup exit to Wigan Athletic and the 5-1 aggregate defeat by Liverpool in the Champions League quarter-finals.

"If we concentrate on ourselves then as a team we can go on to great things," Walker added. "But the Liverpool game(s) showed us that we are not a perfect team."

The 27-year-old also credited perfectionist Guardiola for City's free-flowing style of play, which has led to their domestic dominance.

City can sweeten their title win by breaking several records in their five remaining league games, starting with Sunday's home match against struggling Swansea City.

'There is still a lot of room for improvement,' the City defender added

Newly crowned Premier League champions Manchester City need to continue winning trophies if they want to be regarded among the great teams of English top-flight football, defender Kyle Walker has said. City won their third title in seven seasons with five games to spare on Sunday after a record-breaking campaign that has seen manager Pep Guardiola's side outclass their rivals, but Walker believes there is potential to do more. "There is still a lot of room for improvement," England international Walker told BBC Radio 5 live. "I have read some articles that say we need to win things continuously for a number of years before we are classed as a great team. "Every single one of us wants to be recognised as one of the greatest teams to play in the Premier League." City's march to the title and their League Cup triumph in February has been offset by a shock FA Cup exit to Wigan Athletic and the 5-1 aggregate defeat by Liverpool in the Champions League quarter-finals. "If we concentrate on ourselves then as a team we can go on to great things," Walker added. "But the Liverpool game(s) showed us that we are not a perfect team." The 27-year-old also credited perfectionist Guardiola for City's free-flowing style of play, which has led to their domestic dominance. City can sweeten their title win by breaking several records in their five remaining league games, starting with Sunday's home match against struggling Swansea City.

Football: 'Every one of us wants to be recognised as one of the greatest teams,' says Manchester City's Walker

Eyebrows were raised last year when Manchester City spent almost 140 million pounds ($197 million) on two full backs and a goalkeeper, but manager Pep Guardiola showed he knew exactly what was needed to capture the Premier League title in style.

Having experienced his first-ever trophyless season as a head coach last campaign, Guardiola wasted no time in bringing in goalkeeper Ederson, as well as Kyle Walker and Benjamin Mendy to enhance City in areas they`d previously been lacking in.

Last season, the Spanish coach had replaced England international goalkeeper Joe Hart with Claudio Bravo. However, 19 goalkeepers who played more than 20 Premier League games finished the 2016-17 campaign with a better save percentage than the Chilean, as City conceded 39 goals.

Ederson did not come cheap at a reported 35 million pounds, but the results have been mightily impressive with the Brazilian being beaten only 25 times so far.

Firstly, he fulfils that ball-playing requirement that Guardiola demands from his keepers. Ederson`s pass success rate of more than 85 per cent is higher than players including Paul Pogba, Kevin De Bruyne, and Cesc Fabregas.&nbsp; 
It means the 24-year-old is the league`s most accurate goalkeeper by a comfortable distance.

Ederson has also made some crucial saves, such as the last-gasp penalty stop at Crystal Palace in December, as well making a significant improvement in the save percentage department -- contributions that can make all the difference in a title race.

"He is young and has to improve a lot of things, but he is, for me, already one of the best in the world," Guardiola said recently.

NEW ENERGY

Last year, ageing full backs Pablo Zabaleta, Gael Clichy and Aleksandar Kolarov were tasked with providing extra width down the wing.

All three left in the close season and Guardiola invested in younger replacements on each side, which immediately reaped rewards.

Mendy`s unfortunate injury has deprived City of a potent threat for much of this season, after the Frenchman had settled in very quickly.

Kyle Walker, though, has continued to provide that additional option in attack. The England international has provided six Premier League assists, compared to two from Kolarov, Clichy and Zabaleta combined last campaign.

Further forward, Bernardo Silva has shown glimpses of his creative ability, but is yet to make a regular starting berth his own. Danilo is another who has provided quality in reserve.

Aymeric Laporte became City`s record signing in January, but it would be unfair to judge the young defender after such little time in England.&nbsp;

The likes of De Bruyne, David Silva and Sergio Aguero -- all players inherited by Guardiola -- have spearheaded City`s title triumph. But it was the signings in areas City were falling short in, which have helped propel them from nearly men into champions.

Guardiola wasted no time in bringing in goalkeeper Ederson

Eyebrows were raised last year when Manchester City spent almost 140 million pounds ($197 million) on two full backs and a goalkeeper, but manager Pep Guardiola showed he knew exactly what was needed to capture the Premier League title in style. Having experienced his first-ever trophyless season as a head coach last campaign, Guardiola wasted no time in bringing in goalkeeper Ederson, as well as Kyle Walker and Benjamin Mendy to enhance City in areas they`d previously been lacking in. Last season, the Spanish coach had replaced England international goalkeeper Joe Hart with Claudio Bravo. However, 19 goalkeepers who played more than 20 Premier League games finished the 2016-17 campaign with a better save percentage than the Chilean, as City conceded 39 goals. Ederson did not come cheap at a reported 35 million pounds, but the results have been mightily impressive with the Brazilian being beaten only 25 times so far. Firstly, he fulfils that ball-playing requirement that Guardiola demands from his keepers. Ederson`s pass success rate of more than 85 per cent is higher than players including Paul Pogba, Kevin De Bruyne, and Cesc Fabregas. It means the 24-year-old is the league`s most accurate goalkeeper by a comfortable distance. Ederson has also made some crucial saves, such as the last-gasp penalty stop at Crystal Palace in December, as well making a significant improvement in the save percentage department -- contributions that can make all the difference in a title race. "He is young and has to improve a lot of things, but he is, for me, already one of the best in the world," Guardiola said recently. NEW ENERGY Last year, ageing full backs Pablo Zabaleta, Gael Clichy and Aleksandar Kolarov were tasked with providing extra width down the wing. All three left in the close season and Guardiola invested in younger replacements on each side, which immediately reaped rewards. Mendy`s unfortunate injury has deprived City of a potent threat for much of this season, after the Frenchman had settled in very quickly. Kyle Walker, though, has continued to provide that additional option in attack. The England international has provided six Premier League assists, compared to two from Kolarov, Clichy and Zabaleta combined last campaign. Further forward, Bernardo Silva has shown glimpses of his creative ability, but is yet to make a regular starting berth his own. Danilo is another who has provided quality in reserve. Aymeric Laporte became City`s record signing in January, but it would be unfair to judge the young defender after such little time in England. The likes of De Bruyne, David Silva and Sergio Aguero -- all players inherited by Guardiola -- have spearheaded City`s title triumph. But it was the signings in areas City were falling short in, which have helped propel them from nearly men into champions.

How Pep Guardiola's signings turned Manchester City from nearly men into champions

Manchester City can become English champions for the fifth time if they beat Manchester United on Saturday -- and Pep Guardiola's claim he was offered Paul Pogba has added to the occasion.

A City side that has lost just once in the league all season will seal their third Premier League title in seven seasons unless Jose Mourinho's side can throw a spanner in the works in what promises to be a memorable Manchester derby.

Liverpool's 3-0 defeat of City in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday took some gloss off their impending coronation, but Guardiola has come out fighting by taunting United with the claim he was given the chance to sign the club's record signing Paul Pogba in January.

"I said no. We don't have the money to buy Pogba because he is so expensive," Guardiola told reporters on Friday as he attacked the conduct of Pogba's agent Mino Raiola.

Guardiola, who stressed he thought Pogba was an "incredible player", also suggested Raiola offered him then-United midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan shortly before Arsenal signed him instead in part-exchange for the deal that took Alexis Sanchez to Old Trafford.

Pogba, who joined United for £89 million ($125 million, 102 million euros) from Juventus in 2016, has endured a wretched season and is by no means guaranteed to be in the starting line-up on Saturday.

The French midfielder responded to Guardiola's revelations with a picture on Twitter cupping his hand to his ear, captioned "Say what?"

United manager Jose Mourinho indicated last month that it was up to Pogba to explain why his form has been so inconsistent in recent months.

There is no suggestion that United had given their approval for Pogba to be offered to City and Guardiola's ire appeared to be aimed solely at Raiola -- the two men have feuded since the Catalan coach was managing Barcelona.

Raiola believes Guardiola forced another of his clients, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, out of Barcelona in 2011.

Their row was reignited two weeks ago when Raiola called Guardiola a "zero", a "coward" and a "dog" for the way he treats his players.

"Comparing someone to a dog is bad. It's not good. He has to respect the dogs," Guardiola said with heavy sarcasm on Friday.

Mourinho has not commented on the Pogba claims, but he said although it would not be "the end of the world" if United lost, "we don't want to offer them the game".

"We want to go there and want to compete and win the match if possible."&nbsp

Emirati riches

Despite Guardiola's suggestion that City could not stretch to Pogba's price tag, the investment by their owners from Abu Dhabi, who took over in 2008, has been phenomenal.

The CIES Football Observatory estimates that the current City squad, including Sergio Aguero and contender for player of the year Kevin De Bruyne, cost 878 million euros ($1.07 billion) to assemble.

That financial firepower has put City 16 points ahead of second-placed United.

Guardiola, also a former manager of German giants Bayern Munich, has himself splashed out nearly 600 million euros in his time in northwest England, but he defended the level of spending.

"I am so, so happy with what we have done this year," he said. "It's impossible to do that, to play the way we play, the results we achieved, without top players. It's impossible. And today the top players cost a lot of money.

"When the people say, 'You win because you spend 600 million euros', I don't know how much money we spent in two years. But it is impossible to do it without money.

"When people you say, 'You can do that, Pep, what you have done in Barcelona or Bayern Munich without those players, is it possible to do that?' No, it's impossible, so be calm."

Manchester City can become English champions for the fifth time if they beat Manchester United

Manchester City can become English champions for the fifth time if they beat Manchester United on Saturday -- and Pep Guardiola's claim he was offered Paul Pogba has added to the occasion. A City side that has lost just once in the league all season will seal their third Premier League title in seven seasons unless Jose Mourinho's side can throw a spanner in the works in what promises to be a memorable Manchester derby. Liverpool's 3-0 defeat of City in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday took some gloss off their impending coronation, but Guardiola has come out fighting by taunting United with the claim he was given the chance to sign the club's record signing Paul Pogba in January. "I said no. We don't have the money to buy Pogba because he is so expensive," Guardiola told reporters on Friday as he attacked the conduct of Pogba's agent Mino Raiola. Guardiola, who stressed he thought Pogba was an "incredible player", also suggested Raiola offered him then-United midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan shortly before Arsenal signed him instead in part-exchange for the deal that took Alexis Sanchez to Old Trafford. Pogba, who joined United for £89 million ($125 million, 102 million euros) from Juventus in 2016, has endured a wretched season and is by no means guaranteed to be in the starting line-up on Saturday. The French midfielder responded to Guardiola's revelations with a picture on Twitter cupping his hand to his ear, captioned "Say what?" United manager Jose Mourinho indicated last month that it was up to Pogba to explain why his form has been so inconsistent in recent months. There is no suggestion that United had given their approval for Pogba to be offered to City and Guardiola's ire appeared to be aimed solely at Raiola -- the two men have feuded since the Catalan coach was managing Barcelona. Raiola believes Guardiola forced another of his clients, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, out of Barcelona in 2011. Their row was reignited two weeks ago when Raiola called Guardiola a "zero", a "coward" and a "dog" for the way he treats his players. "Comparing someone to a dog is bad. It's not good. He has to respect the dogs," Guardiola said with heavy sarcasm on Friday. Mourinho has not commented on the Pogba claims, but he said although it would not be "the end of the world" if United lost, "we don't want to offer them the game". "We want to go there and want to compete and win the match if possible." Emirati riches Despite Guardiola's suggestion that City could not stretch to Pogba's price tag, the investment by their owners from Abu Dhabi, who took over in 2008, has been phenomenal. The CIES Football Observatory estimates that the current City squad, including Sergio Aguero and contender for player of the year Kevin De Bruyne, cost 878 million euros ($1.07 billion) to assemble. That financial firepower has put City 16 points ahead of second-placed United. Guardiola, also a former manager of German giants Bayern Munich, has himself splashed out nearly 600 million euros in his time in northwest England, but he defended the level of spending. "I am so, so happy with what we have done this year," he said. "It's impossible to do that, to play the way we play, the results we achieved, without top players. It's impossible. And today the top players cost a lot of money. "When the people say, 'You win because you spend 600 million euros', I don't know how much money we spent in two years. But it is impossible to do it without money. "When people you say, 'You can do that, Pep, what you have done in Barcelona or Bayern Munich without those players, is it possible to do that?' No, it's impossible, so be calm."

Manchester City to clash Man United for title win

Tottenham Hotspur ended 28 years of hurt and took a massive stride in the race for a top-four finish in the Premier League as Dele Alli struck twice in a 3-1 victory at Chelsea on Sunday.

Not since Gary Lineker scored the winning goal in 1990 had Tottenham taken three points home from Stamford Bridge and in 2016 their title hopes were ended by the Blues in a rumbustious draw dubbed the 'Battle of the Bridge'.

Fourth-placed Tottenham, unbeaten in the league since December, began the day five points clear of Chelsea, but it looked like being a familiar tale of woe when Alvaro Morata punished a Hugo Lloris mistake to head the hosts in front.

Christian Eriksen bamboozled Willy Caballero with a dipping effort just before the break though and Alli, whose form and temperament has been questioned of late, struck twice in four minutes in the second half.

The sight of fit-again Harry Kane coming on as a substitute added to the joy of Tottenham's fans who could finally celebrate at Stamford Bridge after 27 league games there without a win -- a run of 18 defeats and nine draws.

Tottenham have 64 points to Chelsea's 56 with seven games remaining. Spurs are only two points behind third-placed Liverpool, having played a game less.

"After 28 years it is important to win here. It's a happy day for everyone -- fans, players -- and we feel very proud," Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said.

"We dominated the game but Chelsea created the chances and scored. In the second half we were much better and we deserved the victory. The players deserve praise because we showed character at 1-0 down. It's a day to feel very proud."

Before kickoff both sets of fans united in support of Chelsea's seriously ill former skipper Ray Wilkins.

But once the whistle went hostilities resumed -- even if the match never threatened to boil over.

Tottenham were assured in possession but vulnerable to Chelsea's rapid attacks -- twice needing Lloris to make saves from Willian and Victor Moses.

Lloris was badly at fault though in the 30th minute when he flapped at a Moses cross and Morata nodded in his 11th league goal of the season.

For a while, Tottenham looked jittery but Eriksen tested Caballero with one stinging shot before equalising just before the break with a sensational strike.

Moses gave the ball away and when the ball was worked to the Dane he took aim and fired a right-foot shot from 30 yards that dipped over Caballero who was playing in place of the injured Thibaut Courtois.

Son Heung-min tested Caballero with a curling left-foot shot after the break but Tottenham went ahead in the 62nd minute when Alli, playing his 100th Premier League game for the club, timed his run to perfection. He took down Eric Dier's pass and fired the ball past Chelsea's keeper.

Alli was left out of England's friendly matches against the Netherlands and Italy and he has come under fire for diving this season but he answered his critics again four minutes later.

Son caused more panic in the Chelsea defence and after the South Korean had two efforts blocked, the ball fell to Alli who took a touch before firing home.

Tottenham's fans celebrated long and loud after the final whistle sounded and they will now be confident of watching Champions League football in their new stadium next season.

Tottenham's fans celebrated long and loud after the final whistle sounded and they will now be confident of watching Champions League football in their new stadium next season.

Tottenham Hotspur ended 28 years of hurt and took a massive stride in the race for a top-four finish in the Premier League as Dele Alli struck twice in a 3-1 victory at Chelsea on Sunday. Not since Gary Lineker scored the winning goal in 1990 had Tottenham taken three points home from Stamford Bridge and in 2016 their title hopes were ended by the Blues in a rumbustious draw dubbed the 'Battle of the Bridge'. Fourth-placed Tottenham, unbeaten in the league since December, began the day five points clear of Chelsea, but it looked like being a familiar tale of woe when Alvaro Morata punished a Hugo Lloris mistake to head the hosts in front. Christian Eriksen bamboozled Willy Caballero with a dipping effort just before the break though and Alli, whose form and temperament has been questioned of late, struck twice in four minutes in the second half. The sight of fit-again Harry Kane coming on as a substitute added to the joy of Tottenham's fans who could finally celebrate at Stamford Bridge after 27 league games there without a win -- a run of 18 defeats and nine draws. Tottenham have 64 points to Chelsea's 56 with seven games remaining. Spurs are only two points behind third-placed Liverpool, having played a game less. "After 28 years it is important to win here. It's a happy day for everyone -- fans, players -- and we feel very proud," Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said. "We dominated the game but Chelsea created the chances and scored. In the second half we were much better and we deserved the victory. The players deserve praise because we showed character at 1-0 down. It's a day to feel very proud." Before kickoff both sets of fans united in support of Chelsea's seriously ill former skipper Ray Wilkins. But once the whistle went hostilities resumed -- even if the match never threatened to boil over. Tottenham were assured in possession but vulnerable to Chelsea's rapid attacks -- twice needing Lloris to make saves from Willian and Victor Moses. Lloris was badly at fault though in the 30th minute when he flapped at a Moses cross and Morata nodded in his 11th league goal of the season. For a while, Tottenham looked jittery but Eriksen tested Caballero with one stinging shot before equalising just before the break with a sensational strike. Moses gave the ball away and when the ball was worked to the Dane he took aim and fired a right-foot shot from 30 yards that dipped over Caballero who was playing in place of the injured Thibaut Courtois. Son Heung-min tested Caballero with a curling left-foot shot after the break but Tottenham went ahead in the 62nd minute when Alli, playing his 100th Premier League game for the club, timed his run to perfection. He took down Eric Dier's pass and fired the ball past Chelsea's keeper. Alli was left out of England's friendly matches against the Netherlands and Italy and he has come under fire for diving this season but he answered his critics again four minutes later. Son caused more panic in the Chelsea defence and after the South Korean had two efforts blocked, the ball fell to Alli who took a touch before firing home. Tottenham's fans celebrated long and loud after the final whistle sounded and they will now be confident of watching Champions League football in their new stadium next season.

EPL: Tottenham Hotspur beat Chelsea as Dele Alli strikes twice

Manchester City moved to within one win of the Premier League title after an impressive 3-1 win at Everton on Saturday.

Pep Guardiola's side, who will be champions if they win next Saturday's Manchester derby, grabbed the lead in the fourth minute through Leroy Sane's sizzling volley from a tight angle at the back post after a pinpoint cross from David Silva.

Eight minutes later it was 2-0 to City after Kevin De Bruyne did well with a high bouncing ball to find Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus who confidently headed home.

City were utterly dominant and Silva was again the provider for the third goal, in the 37th minute, when he slipped the ball across the area and Raheem Sterling drove past Jordan Pickford.

Everton gained encouragement in the 63rd minute when Yannick Bolasie's low drive from the edge of the area flew in off the inside of the post but City, preserving energy ahead of Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg at Liverpool, comfortably saw out the game.

Pep Guardiola's side will be champions if they win next Saturday's Manchester derby

Manchester City moved to within one win of the Premier League title after an impressive 3-1 win at Everton on Saturday. Pep Guardiola's side, who will be champions if they win next Saturday's Manchester derby, grabbed the lead in the fourth minute through Leroy Sane's sizzling volley from a tight angle at the back post after a pinpoint cross from David Silva. Eight minutes later it was 2-0 to City after Kevin De Bruyne did well with a high bouncing ball to find Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus who confidently headed home. City were utterly dominant and Silva was again the provider for the third goal, in the 37th minute, when he slipped the ball across the area and Raheem Sterling drove past Jordan Pickford. Everton gained encouragement in the 63rd minute when Yannick Bolasie's low drive from the edge of the area flew in off the inside of the post but City, preserving energy ahead of Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg at Liverpool, comfortably saw out the game.

EPL: Manchester City one win away from title

Arsenal eased their way past Watford 3-0 in the Premier League on Sunday, marking their first clean sheet in 12 league matches and settling nerves at the Emirates after a string of losses in 2018.

A first-half header from Shkodran Mustafi and second-half strikes from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Henrikh Mkhitaryan sealed the win for the Gunners.

Watford won a penalty when Arsenal&#39;s Ainsley Maitland-Niles was deemed to have brought down Roberto Pereyra, but Petr Cech got his fingertips to Troy Deeney&#39;s spot kick, nudging the ball onto the post and back out to roars of approval from the home crowd.

The win leaves Arsenal 10 points off Champions League qualification in sixth place in the standings, while Watford stay in 10th.

A first-half header from Shkodran Mustafi and second-half strikes from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Henrikh Mkhitaryan sealed the win for the Gunners

Arsenal eased their way past Watford 3-0 in the Premier League on Sunday, marking their first clean sheet in 12 league matches and settling nerves at the Emirates after a string of losses in 2018. A first-half header from Shkodran Mustafi and second-half strikes from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Henrikh Mkhitaryan sealed the win for the Gunners. Watford won a penalty when Arsenal's Ainsley Maitland-Niles was deemed to have brought down Roberto Pereyra, but Petr Cech got his fingertips to Troy Deeney's spot kick, nudging the ball onto the post and back out to roars of approval from the home crowd. The win leaves Arsenal 10 points off Champions League qualification in sixth place in the standings, while Watford stay in 10th.

EPL: Arsenal beat Watford 3-0 for first clean sheet in 12 league matches

Manchester City tore Arsenal apart for the second time in five days on Thursday, beating them 3-0 on a freezing night at The Emirates to restore their 16-point lead as they close in on the Premier League title.

Arsenal hoped for redemption after City thrashed them by the same scoreline in the League Cup final at Wembley on Sunday but first-half goals by Bernardo Silva, David Silva and Leroy Sane handed the Gunners their second home league loss this season.

Arsenal&#39;s club record signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang added to the home side&#39;s woes when his penalty was saved by Ederson early in the second half after fellow new arrival Henrikh Mkhitaryan was brought down just inside the area.

The win leaves Pep Guardiola&#39;s scintillating City side on 75 points from 28 games ahead of second-placed Manchester United and they only have to win five of their last 10 matches to be crowned champions for the third time in seven seasons.

&quot;We are close. It&#39;s in our hands, we can&#39;t deny it,&quot; Guardiola said, while stressing his team must focus on the next game at home to last season&#39;s champions Chelsea on Sunday.

He expressed some sympathy for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who has faced renewed speculation over his future at the London club as the Gunners slide out of contention for Champions League football next season for the second year in a row.

&quot;He knows my admiration for him... I know all the managers can be in that situation. I&#39;m sure he&#39;s going to take the right decision for him and for the club,&quot; Guardiola told a post-match news conference without elaborating.

LOW CONFIDENCE

The result leaves Arsenal sixth, 10 points outside the top four places that guarantee Champions League football next term.

They can still qualify for Europe&#39;s elite club competition, but to do so they will almost certainly have to win the Europa League in which they meet AC Milan in the last 16.

&quot;We played with low confidence, you could see that at the start of the game and we paid for it,&quot; said Wenger.

&quot;We needed the penalty to go in, but that was another negative. We lost to a team that is the best in the country at the moment... The difference in the league is no coincidence.&quot;

On a snowy night at The Emirates, City&#39;s Portuguese forward Bernardo Silva opened the scoring in the 14th minute, collecting a pass after a long weaving run from Leroy Sane and delightfully curling his shot into the far corner past goalkeeper Petr Cech.

City sliced open Arsenal&#39;s defence again just before the half-hour, moving the ball swiftly upfield to Aguero who laid it into the path of David Silva racing up on the left, and the Spaniard drove a low shot into the corner to double the lead.

Sane made it 3-0 five minutes later, walking the ball into the goal after another quick-fire City move had bamboozled Arsenal&#39;s ramshackle defence who were left chasing shadows.

The young German&#39;s goal drew the first of many boos from the home fans in the less than full stadium as their team headed for home and away defeats by City for the first time in 42 years.

Arsenal had a chance to get back into the game when they won a penalty early in the second half but their Gabon striker Aubameyang saw his spot kick saved by Ederson to complete a miserable night that piles more pressure on Wenger&#39;s team.

Manchester City tore Arsenal apart for the second time in five day, beating them 3-0 at The Emirates to restore their 16-point lead at the top of the table

Manchester City tore Arsenal apart for the second time in five days on Thursday, beating them 3-0 on a freezing night at The Emirates to restore their 16-point lead as they close in on the Premier League title. Arsenal hoped for redemption after City thrashed them by the same scoreline in the League Cup final at Wembley on Sunday but first-half goals by Bernardo Silva, David Silva and Leroy Sane handed the Gunners their second home league loss this season. Arsenal's club record signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang added to the home side's woes when his penalty was saved by Ederson early in the second half after fellow new arrival Henrikh Mkhitaryan was brought down just inside the area. The win leaves Pep Guardiola's scintillating City side on 75 points from 28 games ahead of second-placed Manchester United and they only have to win five of their last 10 matches to be crowned champions for the third time in seven seasons. "We are close. It's in our hands, we can't deny it," Guardiola said, while stressing his team must focus on the next game at home to last season's champions Chelsea on Sunday. He expressed some sympathy for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who has faced renewed speculation over his future at the London club as the Gunners slide out of contention for Champions League football next season for the second year in a row. "He knows my admiration for him... I know all the managers can be in that situation. I'm sure he's going to take the right decision for him and for the club," Guardiola told a post-match news conference without elaborating. LOW CONFIDENCE The result leaves Arsenal sixth, 10 points outside the top four places that guarantee Champions League football next term. They can still qualify for Europe's elite club competition, but to do so they will almost certainly have to win the Europa League in which they meet AC Milan in the last 16. "We played with low confidence, you could see that at the start of the game and we paid for it," said Wenger. "We needed the penalty to go in, but that was another negative. We lost to a team that is the best in the country at the moment... The difference in the league is no coincidence." On a snowy night at The Emirates, City's Portuguese forward Bernardo Silva opened the scoring in the 14th minute, collecting a pass after a long weaving run from Leroy Sane and delightfully curling his shot into the far corner past goalkeeper Petr Cech. City sliced open Arsenal's defence again just before the half-hour, moving the ball swiftly upfield to Aguero who laid it into the path of David Silva racing up on the left, and the Spaniard drove a low shot into the corner to double the lead. Sane made it 3-0 five minutes later, walking the ball into the goal after another quick-fire City move had bamboozled Arsenal's ramshackle defence who were left chasing shadows. The young German's goal drew the first of many boos from the home fans in the less than full stadium as their team headed for home and away defeats by City for the first time in 42 years. Arsenal had a chance to get back into the game when they won a penalty early in the second half but their Gabon striker Aubameyang saw his spot kick saved by Ederson to complete a miserable night that piles more pressure on Wenger's team.

EPL: Sparkling City close in on title by thrashing Arsenal again

Liverpool&#39;s poor first-half display against Premier League bottom side Swansea City left manager Juergen Klopp angry and frustrated as they lost 1-0 at the Liberty Stadium on Monday.

Swansea went ahead five minutes before the break when an attempt to clear by Liverpool&#39;s 75 million pounds ($104.88 million) defender Virgil Van Dijk landed at the feet of Mawson who swept the ball home for his sixth league goal this season.

Van Dijk, playing in his first league game since signing from Southampton, had earlier flashed over a header from a first-half corner, while Mohamed Salah blazed the Dutch defender&#39;s lofted pass over the bar on the half-hour mark.

Liverpool upped the tempo in the second half, dominating possession and attacking from all angles, and Roberto Firmino saw his late header come back off the post, but Swansea managed to hold on for only their fifth league win of the season.

Liverpool had not lost in 18 games, having just ended the unbeaten league record of runaway leaders Manchester City, but they fluffed their lines in the face of some stout defending.

The loss leaves the Reds on 47 points, three behind Chelsea and six off Manchester United, with Tottenham Hotspur two points outside the top four after a draw at Southampton on Sunday.

Manchester City leads the way with 65 points from 24 games.

Klopp criticised his players for not sticking to their positions in the first half, allowing Swansea to score after a poor clearance by Virgil van Dijk

Liverpool's poor first-half display against Premier League bottom side Swansea City left manager Juergen Klopp angry and frustrated as they lost 1-0 at the Liberty Stadium on Monday. Swansea went ahead five minutes before the break when an attempt to clear by Liverpool's 75 million pounds ($104.88 million) defender Virgil Van Dijk landed at the feet of Mawson who swept the ball home for his sixth league goal this season. Van Dijk, playing in his first league game since signing from Southampton, had earlier flashed over a header from a first-half corner, while Mohamed Salah blazed the Dutch defender's lofted pass over the bar on the half-hour mark. Liverpool upped the tempo in the second half, dominating possession and attacking from all angles, and Roberto Firmino saw his late header come back off the post, but Swansea managed to hold on for only their fifth league win of the season. Liverpool had not lost in 18 games, having just ended the unbeaten league record of runaway leaders Manchester City, but they fluffed their lines in the face of some stout defending. The loss leaves the Reds on 47 points, three behind Chelsea and six off Manchester United, with Tottenham Hotspur two points outside the top four after a draw at Southampton on Sunday. Manchester City leads the way with 65 points from 24 games.

EPL: Liverpool suffers surprise defeat against Swansea

Jurgen Klopp blamed his players for becoming embroiled in a fight at Swansea City as they lost their unbeaten 18-match run to the Premier League&#39;s bottom club.

It was Liverpool&#39;s first defeat since October, but the points were priceless for Swansea, who cut the gap between themselves and those above the relegation places to just three points.

He said, &quot;I am more frustrated about the performance than the result.

&quot;We were just not good enough, especially in the first half. We didn&rsquo;t play how we wanted to play.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/epl-liverpool-suffers-surprise-defeat-against-swansea-30417" target="_blank">EPL: Liverpool suffers surprise defeat against Swansea</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-five-facts-on-alexis-sanchez-647">In pictures: Five facts on Alexis Sanchez</a>

&quot;We didn&#39;t keep the right positions we needed to, to cause them problems and didn&rsquo;t stretch them.

&quot;We gave them the opportunity to score and then we did exactly what Swansea wanted.

&quot;They didn&rsquo;t need to play, they needed to fight and we did exactly what they wanted and their confidence grew.&quot;

Klopp added: &quot;Swansea knew that to win today they needed our help and unfortunately we gave it to them.

&ldquo;They did the right things to deserve to win a game like this tonight and we didn&rsquo;t deserve it.

We could have equalised at the end, but didn&rsquo;t have that luck.&quot;

&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp: "We were just not good enough, especially in the first half. We didn’t play how we wanted to play"

Jurgen Klopp blamed his players for becoming embroiled in a fight at Swansea City as they lost their unbeaten 18-match run to the Premier League's bottom club. It was Liverpool's first defeat since October, but the points were priceless for Swansea, who cut the gap between themselves and those above the relegation places to just three points. He said, "I am more frustrated about the performance than the result. "We were just not good enough, especially in the first half. We didn’t play how we wanted to play." EPL: Liverpool suffers surprise defeat against Swansea In pictures: Five facts on Alexis Sanchez "We didn't keep the right positions we needed to, to cause them problems and didn’t stretch them. "We gave them the opportunity to score and then we did exactly what Swansea wanted. "They didn’t need to play, they needed to fight and we did exactly what they wanted and their confidence grew." Klopp added: "Swansea knew that to win today they needed our help and unfortunately we gave it to them. “They did the right things to deserve to win a game like this tonight and we didn’t deserve it. We could have equalised at the end, but didn’t have that luck."

'Frustrated about performance,' says Jurgen Klopp

Hector Bellerin came to Arsenal&#39;s rescue as the defender&#39;s last-gasp strike earned a dramatic 2-2 draw in a heated London derby against Chelsea on Wednesday.

Bellerin looked set to be the villain of the piece for Arsenal after the Spaniard&#39;s foul on Eden Hazard conceded a penalty that allowed the Chelsea star to cancel out Jack Wilshere&#39;s opener.

When Marcos Alonso put Chelsea in front with just six minutes left at the Emirates Stadium, Bellerin&#39;s misery seemed complete.

But the 22-year-old enjoyed a sweet moment of redemption in the 90th minute as he lashed in only his second goal of the season.

The frenetic conclusion to a thrilling encounter actually did little for either team&#39;s prospects in the Premier League.

Chelsea remain in third place, one point behind Manchester United and 16 adrift of runaway leaders Manchester City.

Arsenal, who have now won only once in 13 league meetings with Chelsea, are languishing in sixth place, five points behind fourth placed Liverpool in the battle to qualify for the Champions League.

In an early sign of the drama to come, Alvaro Morata squandered a golden opportunity to put Chelsea ahead when Arsenal defender Calum Chambers completely misjudged a long pass.

Morata pounced on the loose ball and sprinted clear but with only Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech to beat, the Spain striker scuffed woefully wide.

Foreshadowing the penalty angst to come for Wenger, Ainsley Maitland-Niles had a spot-kick appeal turned down following Victor Moses&#39; challenge.

It looked a good decision by referee Anthony Taylor however and there was more frustration for Wenger moments later.

Alexis Sanchez wriggled into position for a powerful shot that Thibaut Courtois pushed onto one post, with the ball rolling agonisingly along the goalline, then hitting the other post before rebounding into the keeper&#39;s arms.

If that was a stroke of luck for Chelsea, there was no fortune about Courtois&#39;s next contribution as he produced a fine save to deny Alexandre Lacazette after the Arsenal forward turned Gary Cahill and unleashed a powerful low strike.

Arsenal&#39;s Mesut Ozil almost opened the scoring just before half-time with a stinging drive that whistled narrowly wide.

- Conspiracies - 
Cech was called into action twice in quick succession after the interval as he repelled Hazard&#39;s low shot and palmed away Alonso&#39;s header.

Courtois was matching Cech save for save and the Belgian produced another brilliant block to stop Lacazette&#39;s close-range effort.

But the Chelsea keeper was finally beaten in the 63rd minute.

Ozil picked out Rob Holding on the edge of the area and when the defender&#39;s pass was deflected into Wilshere&#39;s path, he reacted instinctively to drive his shot high into the net at Courtois&#39;s near post.

It was Wilshere&#39;s first league goal since May 2015, although he might have been fortune to still be on the pitch after avoiding a second booking for a theatrical tumble just before he scored.

Yet the crucial moment in a pulsating clash came just four minutes later.&nbsp;

As Hazard twisted and turned inside the Arsenal area, Bellerin rashly stuck out a leg to halt his progress and Taylor pointed to the spot.

Hazard stepped up to convert the 67th minute penalty for his ninth Chelsea goal this season.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger had ranted darkly about refereeing conspiracies after Arsenal&#39;s Calum Chambers conceded a debatable penalty for handball in Sunday&#39;s draw at West Bromwich Albion.

The Frenchman has already been charged by the Football Association for his angry protests at the weekend, but his expression after the decision suggests another blast is in the offing.

When Alonso timed his run perfectly to meet Davide Zappacosta&#39;s cross with a cool finish in the 84th minute, it seemed certain Chelsea would start 2018 in winning style.

But Bellerin was determined not to end the night as the fall guy and the wing-back pounced on Alonso&#39;s weak header to crash in the equaliser.

Even then there was almost a sting in the tale when Zappacosta smashed against the bar in stoppage-time.

The defender's last-gasp strike earned Arsenal a dramatic 2-2 draw in a heated London derby

Hector Bellerin came to Arsenal's rescue as the defender's last-gasp strike earned a dramatic 2-2 draw in a heated London derby against Chelsea on Wednesday. Bellerin looked set to be the villain of the piece for Arsenal after the Spaniard's foul on Eden Hazard conceded a penalty that allowed the Chelsea star to cancel out Jack Wilshere's opener. When Marcos Alonso put Chelsea in front with just six minutes left at the Emirates Stadium, Bellerin's misery seemed complete. But the 22-year-old enjoyed a sweet moment of redemption in the 90th minute as he lashed in only his second goal of the season. The frenetic conclusion to a thrilling encounter actually did little for either team's prospects in the Premier League. Chelsea remain in third place, one point behind Manchester United and 16 adrift of runaway leaders Manchester City. Arsenal, who have now won only once in 13 league meetings with Chelsea, are languishing in sixth place, five points behind fourth placed Liverpool in the battle to qualify for the Champions League. In an early sign of the drama to come, Alvaro Morata squandered a golden opportunity to put Chelsea ahead when Arsenal defender Calum Chambers completely misjudged a long pass. Morata pounced on the loose ball and sprinted clear but with only Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech to beat, the Spain striker scuffed woefully wide. Foreshadowing the penalty angst to come for Wenger, Ainsley Maitland-Niles had a spot-kick appeal turned down following Victor Moses' challenge. It looked a good decision by referee Anthony Taylor however and there was more frustration for Wenger moments later. Alexis Sanchez wriggled into position for a powerful shot that Thibaut Courtois pushed onto one post, with the ball rolling agonisingly along the goalline, then hitting the other post before rebounding into the keeper's arms. If that was a stroke of luck for Chelsea, there was no fortune about Courtois's next contribution as he produced a fine save to deny Alexandre Lacazette after the Arsenal forward turned Gary Cahill and unleashed a powerful low strike. Arsenal's Mesut Ozil almost opened the scoring just before half-time with a stinging drive that whistled narrowly wide. - Conspiracies - Cech was called into action twice in quick succession after the interval as he repelled Hazard's low shot and palmed away Alonso's header. Courtois was matching Cech save for save and the Belgian produced another brilliant block to stop Lacazette's close-range effort. But the Chelsea keeper was finally beaten in the 63rd minute. Ozil picked out Rob Holding on the edge of the area and when the defender's pass was deflected into Wilshere's path, he reacted instinctively to drive his shot high into the net at Courtois's near post. It was Wilshere's first league goal since May 2015, although he might have been fortune to still be on the pitch after avoiding a second booking for a theatrical tumble just before he scored. Yet the crucial moment in a pulsating clash came just four minutes later. As Hazard twisted and turned inside the Arsenal area, Bellerin rashly stuck out a leg to halt his progress and Taylor pointed to the spot. Hazard stepped up to convert the 67th minute penalty for his ninth Chelsea goal this season. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger had ranted darkly about refereeing conspiracies after Arsenal's Calum Chambers conceded a debatable penalty for handball in Sunday's draw at West Bromwich Albion. The Frenchman has already been charged by the Football Association for his angry protests at the weekend, but his expression after the decision suggests another blast is in the offing. When Alonso timed his run perfectly to meet Davide Zappacosta's cross with a cool finish in the 84th minute, it seemed certain Chelsea would start 2018 in winning style. But Bellerin was determined not to end the night as the fall guy and the wing-back pounced on Alonso's weak header to crash in the equaliser. Even then there was almost a sting in the tale when Zappacosta smashed against the bar in stoppage-time.

EPL: Bellerin strikes late to rescue Arsenal in Chelsea thriller

Tottenham Hotspur could afford to start Harry Kane on the bench and watch his replacement Fernando Llorente spearhead their hard-earned 2-0 Premier League win at bottom club Swansea City on Tuesday.

Former Swansea man Llorente, enjoying a rare start as Kane recovered from a heavy cold, headed Spurs in front after 12 minutes, although he was clearly offside when meeting Christian Eriksen&#39;s free kick.

In incessant driving rain at the Liberty Stadium, Spurs looked largely in control until after the break when Jordan Ayew went close and Jan Vertonghen inadvertently deflected a Swansea attack against his own post.

Yet Kane, brought on for the final 20 minutes, calmed nerves as he superbly set up an 89th-minute goal for Dele Alli that sealed the victory which lifted Spurs to fifth in the table, above their local rivals Arsenal.

A dramatic late win at Watford had given Swansea&#39;s new manager Carlos Carvalhal the ideal launch pad for a revival but the Portuguese&#39;s first home match in charge illustrated the magnitude of the task facing him.

&quot;You need luck to score and win, yes, but after 90 minutes I think it&#39;s clear we were better and deserved the points,&quot; Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino told the BBC.

&quot;The first half was so difficult to play football. The weather was horrible, but we dominated and tried to play football.&quot;

Even the absence of Kane, not risked from the start with Spurs due to play 48 hours later against West Ham United, did not stop the early one-way traffic in the pouring rain which left surface water on the pitch.

It did, however, mean the Spurs&#39; marksman, who was brought on midway through the second half, missed out on the chance of a third successive league hat-trick, a feat not achieved in English football for 72 years.

Instead, it was Spanish international Llorente who ghosted ahead of his marker and latched on to Eriksen&#39;s superb whipped free kick from the left flank to head home past Lukasz Fabianski.

The decision to award the goal clearly exasperated Carvalhal, who was right in thinking Llorente was offside but there could be no argument about the quality of the assist from Eriksen.

It meant the Dane has now been involved in either scoring or setting up 11 goals in eight league matches against Swansea.

Yet after dominating the first half against the side with the worst defensive record in the league, Spurs made heavy weather of the win, a resurgent Swansea coming closest when Mike van der Hoorn&#39;s header deflected off Vertonghen&#39;s back and struck the woodwork.

Spurs, though, reasserted their superiority when Kane came on, the goalscorer par excellence turning provider as his marvellous through ball on the counter-attack found Alli, who bundled the ball home at the second attempt.

Tottenham Hotspur could afford to start Harry Kane on the bench and watch his replacement Fernando Llorente spearhead their hard-earned 2-0 Premier League win at bottom club Swansea City on Tuesday. Former Swansea man Llorente, enjoying a rare start as Kane recovered from a heavy cold, headed Spurs in front after 12 minutes, although he was clearly offside when meeting Christian Eriksen's free kick. In incessant driving rain at the Liberty Stadium, Spurs looked largely in control until after the break when Jordan Ayew went close and Jan Vertonghen inadvertently deflected a Swansea attack against his own post. Yet Kane, brought on for the final 20 minutes, calmed nerves as he superbly set up an 89th-minute goal for Dele Alli that sealed the victory which lifted Spurs to fifth in the table, above their local rivals Arsenal. A dramatic late win at Watford had given Swansea's new manager Carlos Carvalhal the ideal launch pad for a revival but the Portuguese's first home match in charge illustrated the magnitude of the task facing him. "You need luck to score and win, yes, but after 90 minutes I think it's clear we were better and deserved the points," Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino told the BBC. "The first half was so difficult to play football. The weather was horrible, but we dominated and tried to play football." Even the absence of Kane, not risked from the start with Spurs due to play 48 hours later against West Ham United, did not stop the early one-way traffic in the pouring rain which left surface water on the pitch. It did, however, mean the Spurs' marksman, who was brought on midway through the second half, missed out on the chance of a third successive league hat-trick, a feat not achieved in English football for 72 years. Instead, it was Spanish international Llorente who ghosted ahead of his marker and latched on to Eriksen's superb whipped free kick from the left flank to head home past Lukasz Fabianski. The decision to award the goal clearly exasperated Carvalhal, who was right in thinking Llorente was offside but there could be no argument about the quality of the assist from Eriksen. It meant the Dane has now been involved in either scoring or setting up 11 goals in eight league matches against Swansea. Yet after dominating the first half against the side with the worst defensive record in the league, Spurs made heavy weather of the win, a resurgent Swansea coming closest when Mike van der Hoorn's header deflected off Vertonghen's back and struck the woodwork. Spurs, though, reasserted their superiority when Kane came on, the goalscorer par excellence turning provider as his marvellous through ball on the counter-attack found Alli, who bundled the ball home at the second attempt.

EPL: Llorente punishes old club as Spurs win at Swansea

Runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City returned to winning ways with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Watford on Tuesday, showing no signs of letting the festive flurry of fixtures impact their momentum.

City manager Pep Guardiola responded to Sunday&rsquo;s goalless draw at Crystal Palace, which ended their 18-match winning run, by fielding a full-strength side with John Stones and David Silva both returning.

Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who was stretchered off at Palace after a horrific challenge, was fit to start while Sergio Aguero replaced the injured Gabriel Jesus in the centre-forward role.

If that was a statement of intent - it was certainly backed up on the field. It took just 38 seconds for the leaders to get ahead when Silva fed Leroy Sane on the left flank and the German&rsquo;s low cross was turned in at the back post by an unmarked Raheem Sterling.

City looked in the mood to get the business settled early and they should have doubled their lead when Sane, after a clever piece of footwork, cut back to Stones but the defender&rsquo;s shot, while leaning back, flew high over the bar.

It was not long before the second came, however, and again it was a low ball across the face of the goal that proved Watford&rsquo;s undoing. Silva fed De Bruyne on the right and the midfielder&rsquo;s cross was turned into his own net by the sliding Christian Kabasele.

Marco Silva&rsquo;s Watford faced a long night of damage limitation and they had their keeper Heurelho Gomes to thank for tipping a curling De Bruyne free kick against the bar.

The counter-attack was Watford&rsquo;s only likely route to goal and that nearly proved fruitful in the 29th minute when Andre Gray broke clear and burst goalwards but his low shot was well saved by Ederson.

The City keeper did well again to keep out a low drive from Etienne Capoue two minutes before the break but only the most optimistic of Hornets fans would have seen that as a sign of things changing in the second half.

Aguero missed a clearcut chance to make it 3-0 three minutes after the restart, heading well wide when found unmarked 10 metres out by a trademark pinpoint cross from De Bruyne.

It was that combination, however, that put the game well and truly beyond Watford in the 63rd minute with the help of Gomes who fumbled the Belgian&rsquo;s cross to leave Aguero with the simplest of tap-ins.

De Bruyne drove into the side-netting from a tight angle in the 78th minute and was immediately taken off by Guardiola, receiving a richly deserved ovation from the Etihad crowd.

Gray got a consolation for Watford in the 82nd minute slotting home a low cross from Andre Carillo.

Manager Pep Guardiola responded to Sunday?s goalless draw at Crystal Palace, which ended their 18-match winning run, by fielding a full-strength side

Runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City returned to winning ways with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Watford on Tuesday, showing no signs of letting the festive flurry of fixtures impact their momentum. City manager Pep Guardiola responded to Sunday’s goalless draw at Crystal Palace, which ended their 18-match winning run, by fielding a full-strength side with John Stones and David Silva both returning. Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who was stretchered off at Palace after a horrific challenge, was fit to start while Sergio Aguero replaced the injured Gabriel Jesus in the centre-forward role. If that was a statement of intent - it was certainly backed up on the field. It took just 38 seconds for the leaders to get ahead when Silva fed Leroy Sane on the left flank and the German’s low cross was turned in at the back post by an unmarked Raheem Sterling. City looked in the mood to get the business settled early and they should have doubled their lead when Sane, after a clever piece of footwork, cut back to Stones but the defender’s shot, while leaning back, flew high over the bar. It was not long before the second came, however, and again it was a low ball across the face of the goal that proved Watford’s undoing. Silva fed De Bruyne on the right and the midfielder’s cross was turned into his own net by the sliding Christian Kabasele. Marco Silva’s Watford faced a long night of damage limitation and they had their keeper Heurelho Gomes to thank for tipping a curling De Bruyne free kick against the bar. The counter-attack was Watford’s only likely route to goal and that nearly proved fruitful in the 29th minute when Andre Gray broke clear and burst goalwards but his low shot was well saved by Ederson. The City keeper did well again to keep out a low drive from Etienne Capoue two minutes before the break but only the most optimistic of Hornets fans would have seen that as a sign of things changing in the second half. Aguero missed a clearcut chance to make it 3-0 three minutes after the restart, heading well wide when found unmarked 10 metres out by a trademark pinpoint cross from De Bruyne. It was that combination, however, that put the game well and truly beyond Watford in the 63rd minute with the help of Gomes who fumbled the Belgian’s cross to leave Aguero with the simplest of tap-ins. De Bruyne drove into the side-netting from a tight angle in the 78th minute and was immediately taken off by Guardiola, receiving a richly deserved ovation from the Etihad crowd. Gray got a consolation for Watford in the 82nd minute slotting home a low cross from Andre Carillo.

EPL: City back to winning ways with 3-1 victory over Watford

Manchester United put a smile back on Jose Mourinho&#39;s face as fine goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard sealed a 2-0 win over Everton, while Liverpool left it late to snatch a 2-1 victory at Burnley.

Martial started in the absence of the injured Romelu Lukaku and the United forward broke the deadlock in the 57th minute at Goodison Park.

Paul Pogba teed up Martial on the edge of the area and he stroked a sublime finish into the top corner for his ninth goal of the season.

Having struggled towards the end of 2017, United were more commanding in their first match of the new year and Lingard wrapped up the points with a superb solo strike in the 81st minute.

The winger beat several Everton players before curling home from 20 yards for his fourth goal in his last five appearances.

It was a welcome tonic for Mourinho amid reports the United manager is beginning to lose the support of his players after branding them &quot;childish&quot; and &quot;immature&quot; and admitting the squad needs major investment to catch City.

United moved back into second place in the Premier League after ending a frustrating run of three successive draws during the congested Christmas period.

&quot;Our pride, our effort, everything was top class and on top of it we played very well. It wasn&#39;t a performance of tired boys, with the worst possible calendar,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;Jesse is more consistent, he is adaptable, he is going in a good direction.&quot;

United are 12 points behind leaders Manchester City, who host Watford on Tuesday, and two points ahead of third placed Chelsea, who play Arsenal tomorrow.

With Philippe Coutinho and Mohamed Salah missing due to thigh and groin injuries respectively and Roberto Firmino left on the bench, Sadio Mane was the lone member of Liverpool&#39;s &#39;Fab Four&#39; to start at rain-lashed Turf Moor.

Senegal winger Mane showed Liverpool can thrive without his star team-mates as he opened the scoring in the 61st minute, hammering home from the edge of the area for his eighth club goal this season.

Burnley equalised with just three minutes left as Sam Vokes flicked on and Johann Gudmundsson pounced to slot home.

But Liverpool&#39;s Dejan Lovren headed on a free-kick four minutes into stoppage-time and Estonia defender Ragnar Klavan poked home from close-range.

Liverpool&#39;s third successive win extended their unbeaten league run to 13 games as they cemented their place in the top four.

&quot;A very difficult game, the weather made it so hard, windy, rainy,&quot; Klopp said.

&quot;This is one of the toughest places to play all season. Did we deserve to win? I don&#39;t care. We got the three points.&quot;

Stoke manager Mark Hughes faced calls for his sacking after a 1-0 home defeat against Newcastle.

Stoke&#39;s latest lacklustre display piled pressure on Hughes, whose gamble of fielding a weakened team in Saturday&#39;s 5-0 thrashing at Chelsea proved an unwise move.

Newcastle took a deserved lead in the 73rd minute when Ayoze Perez stabbed past Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland from close-range.

That triggered chants for Hughes&#39;s dismissal from Stoke fans, with a &#39;Hughes out&#39; banner held aloft in the stands.

Stoke have won once in their last six games and sit two points above the relegation zone.

High standards

Asked if he feared the sack, a defiant Hughes said: &quot;Who else is going to do it?

&quot;In terms of the knowledge of the group and the progress in my time here, I&#39;m the best person to do it.&quot;

Algeria duo Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani inspired Leicester&#39;s 3-0 win over Huddersfield.

Claude Puel&#39;s side took the lead through Mahrez in the 53rd minute, the winger meeting Marc Albrighton&#39;s cross with a well-taken volley for his eighth goal of the season.

With Leicester striker Jamie Vardy sidelined by a groin injury, Islam Slimani who marked only his second league start this season with his first league goal since April -- a chipped finish in the 60th minute.

Albrighton&#39;s 90th minute goal capped a good afternoon for Leicester, who ended a four-match winless run.

Callum Wilson&#39;s second goal in three games earned Bournemouth a 2-2 draw at south coast rivals Brighton.&nbsp;

Manchester United beat Everton 2-0, Liverpool beat Burnley 2-1

Manchester United put a smile back on Jose Mourinho's face as fine goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard sealed a 2-0 win over Everton, while Liverpool left it late to snatch a 2-1 victory at Burnley. Martial started in the absence of the injured Romelu Lukaku and the United forward broke the deadlock in the 57th minute at Goodison Park. Paul Pogba teed up Martial on the edge of the area and he stroked a sublime finish into the top corner for his ninth goal of the season. Having struggled towards the end of 2017, United were more commanding in their first match of the new year and Lingard wrapped up the points with a superb solo strike in the 81st minute. The winger beat several Everton players before curling home from 20 yards for his fourth goal in his last five appearances. It was a welcome tonic for Mourinho amid reports the United manager is beginning to lose the support of his players after branding them "childish" and "immature" and admitting the squad needs major investment to catch City. United moved back into second place in the Premier League after ending a frustrating run of three successive draws during the congested Christmas period. "Our pride, our effort, everything was top class and on top of it we played very well. It wasn't a performance of tired boys, with the worst possible calendar," Mourinho said. "Jesse is more consistent, he is adaptable, he is going in a good direction." United are 12 points behind leaders Manchester City, who host Watford on Tuesday, and two points ahead of third placed Chelsea, who play Arsenal tomorrow. With Philippe Coutinho and Mohamed Salah missing due to thigh and groin injuries respectively and Roberto Firmino left on the bench, Sadio Mane was the lone member of Liverpool's 'Fab Four' to start at rain-lashed Turf Moor. Senegal winger Mane showed Liverpool can thrive without his star team-mates as he opened the scoring in the 61st minute, hammering home from the edge of the area for his eighth club goal this season. Burnley equalised with just three minutes left as Sam Vokes flicked on and Johann Gudmundsson pounced to slot home. But Liverpool's Dejan Lovren headed on a free-kick four minutes into stoppage-time and Estonia defender Ragnar Klavan poked home from close-range. Liverpool's third successive win extended their unbeaten league run to 13 games as they cemented their place in the top four. "A very difficult game, the weather made it so hard, windy, rainy," Klopp said. "This is one of the toughest places to play all season. Did we deserve to win? I don't care. We got the three points." Stoke manager Mark Hughes faced calls for his sacking after a 1-0 home defeat against Newcastle. Stoke's latest lacklustre display piled pressure on Hughes, whose gamble of fielding a weakened team in Saturday's 5-0 thrashing at Chelsea proved an unwise move. Newcastle took a deserved lead in the 73rd minute when Ayoze Perez stabbed past Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland from close-range. That triggered chants for Hughes's dismissal from Stoke fans, with a 'Hughes out' banner held aloft in the stands. Stoke have won once in their last six games and sit two points above the relegation zone. High standards Asked if he feared the sack, a defiant Hughes said: "Who else is going to do it? "In terms of the knowledge of the group and the progress in my time here, I'm the best person to do it." Algeria duo Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani inspired Leicester's 3-0 win over Huddersfield. Claude Puel's side took the lead through Mahrez in the 53rd minute, the winger meeting Marc Albrighton's cross with a well-taken volley for his eighth goal of the season. With Leicester striker Jamie Vardy sidelined by a groin injury, Islam Slimani who marked only his second league start this season with his first league goal since April -- a chipped finish in the 60th minute. Albrighton's 90th minute goal capped a good afternoon for Leicester, who ended a four-match winless run. Callum Wilson's second goal in three games earned Bournemouth a 2-2 draw at south coast rivals Brighton.

EPL roundup: United lift Mourinho, Liverpool leave it late

Jose Mourinho has lambasted former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes after he criticised the manager and key players in his role as a TV pundit.

Scholes singled out Paul Pogba, the club&#39;s record signing, after his anonymous performance in the weekend draw with Southampton.

But the French international was far more impressive in the 2-0 victory at Everton on New Year&#39;s Day, which ended a run of three consecutive United draws and put the Red Devils 12 points behind runaway leaders Manchester City.

The victory allowed Mourinho to launch a remarkable verbal attack on Scholes, one of the storied &quot;Class of 92&quot; who was a key part of some of the greatest successes in United&#39;s history.

&quot;I think the only thing Paul Scholes does is criticise,&quot; said Mourinho. &quot;I don&#39;t think he comments, I think he criticises, which is a different thing.

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&quot;Not every one of us has to be phenomenal like he was as a player. That does not mean that we all have to be phenomenal.&quot;

Scholes accused Pogba of coasting through games and failing to make the sort of impact his &pound;89 million ($120 million) transfer fee demands.

But Mourinho was clearly in the mood to defend his player and claimed that part of Scholes&#39; attitude was fuelled by jealousy.

&quot;Paul tries to do his best all the time,&quot; he said. &quot;Sometimes he plays very well, sometimes he plays well, sometimes he doesn&#39;t play so well.&nbsp;

&quot;It&#39;s not Paul&#39;s fault that he made much more money than Paul Scholes. It&#39;s just the way football is.&nbsp;

&quot;I think Scholes will be in history as a phenomenal player, not as a pundit. I prefer to look at him as a phenomenal player that gave so much to the club that I am proud to represent.&quot;

The United manager, who won at Goodison thanks to superb goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard, both of which were set up by Pogba, also believes that Scholes has a desire to break into management.

The former United player recently claimed that his application for a job managing United&rsquo;s under-23 team was turned down by the club&#39;s management.

&quot;If Paul one day decides to be a manager I wish that he can be 25 percent as successful as myself,&quot; said Mourinho.&nbsp;

&quot;50 percent of that is 12.5 silverware, 25 percent is around six. If he&#39;s 25 percent, he&#39;ll be quite happy.&quot;

Mourinho did round off his criticism by adding that he believed Scholes was &quot;a phenomenal player&quot; and called him &quot;one of the best I&#39;ve ever seen playing in midfield&quot;.&nbsp;

&quot;The prestige of this club is based on people like him, so successful here,&quot; he said.

&#39;Kings of rock and roll&#39; 
Scholes is the latest of the &quot;Class of 92&quot; to have voiced criticism of United under Mourinho, after Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville also made uncomplimentary comments - a point not lost on Mourinho who described them as &quot;the kings of rock and roll.&quot;

He said: &quot;I think the performance was really good so maybe I am lucky this time - and the kings of rock and roll who say I was under-performing last match say, this time, I performed.

&quot;I think they would love to be here. They would love to be at the club and that&#39;s a problem I cannot resolve.&quot;

Giggs was an assistant to previous United manager Louis Van Gaal.

Mourinho also revealed that Romelu Lukaku, who was stretchered off early in the draw with Southampton, did not suffer a concussion and will be available for selection for United&#39;s FA Cup tie with Derby on Friday.

Arsene Wenger made a similar criticism of former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry on Sunday, saying &quot;I don&#39;t listen to what he says&quot; after the Frenchman claimed the Arsenal squad was riven by divisions over the attitude of Chilean star Alexis Sanchez.

Scholes criticised both Mourinho and key players in his role as TV pundit. The former Manchester United played especially singled out Paul Pogba

Jose Mourinho has lambasted former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes after he criticised the manager and key players in his role as a TV pundit. Scholes singled out Paul Pogba, the club's record signing, after his anonymous performance in the weekend draw with Southampton. But the French international was far more impressive in the 2-0 victory at Everton on New Year's Day, which ended a run of three consecutive United draws and put the Red Devils 12 points behind runaway leaders Manchester City. The victory allowed Mourinho to launch a remarkable verbal attack on Scholes, one of the storied "Class of 92" who was a key part of some of the greatest successes in United's history. "I think the only thing Paul Scholes does is criticise," said Mourinho. "I don't think he comments, I think he criticises, which is a different thing. It's not Paul's fault that he made much more money than Paul Scholes. It's just the way football is,' said Mouringo × "Not every one of us has to be phenomenal like he was as a player. That does not mean that we all have to be phenomenal." Scholes accused Pogba of coasting through games and failing to make the sort of impact his £89 million ($120 million) transfer fee demands. But Mourinho was clearly in the mood to defend his player and claimed that part of Scholes' attitude was fuelled by jealousy. "Paul tries to do his best all the time," he said. "Sometimes he plays very well, sometimes he plays well, sometimes he doesn't play so well. "It's not Paul's fault that he made much more money than Paul Scholes. It's just the way football is. "I think Scholes will be in history as a phenomenal player, not as a pundit. I prefer to look at him as a phenomenal player that gave so much to the club that I am proud to represent." The United manager, who won at Goodison thanks to superb goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard, both of which were set up by Pogba, also believes that Scholes has a desire to break into management. The former United player recently claimed that his application for a job managing United’s under-23 team was turned down by the club's management. "If Paul one day decides to be a manager I wish that he can be 25 percent as successful as myself," said Mourinho. "50 percent of that is 12.5 silverware, 25 percent is around six. If he's 25 percent, he'll be quite happy." Mourinho did round off his criticism by adding that he believed Scholes was "a phenomenal player" and called him "one of the best I've ever seen playing in midfield". "The prestige of this club is based on people like him, so successful here," he said. 'Kings of rock and roll' Scholes is the latest of the "Class of 92" to have voiced criticism of United under Mourinho, after Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville also made uncomplimentary comments - a point not lost on Mourinho who described them as "the kings of rock and roll." He said: "I think the performance was really good so maybe I am lucky this time - and the kings of rock and roll who say I was under-performing last match say, this time, I performed. "I think they would love to be here. They would love to be at the club and that's a problem I cannot resolve." Giggs was an assistant to previous United manager Louis Van Gaal. Mourinho also revealed that Romelu Lukaku, who was stretchered off early in the draw with Southampton, did not suffer a concussion and will be available for selection for United's FA Cup tie with Derby on Friday. Arsene Wenger made a similar criticism of former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry on Sunday, saying "I don't listen to what he says" after the Frenchman claimed the Arsenal squad was riven by divisions over the attitude of Chilean star Alexis Sanchez.

Mourinho lashes out at 'critical' Scholes

Jurgen Klopp has urged Liverpool to stay motivated to reach their target of a place in next season&#39;s Champions League by the end of the season.

Klopp has acknowledged ahead of Liverpool&#39;s clash with bottom side Swansea at Anfield on Tuesday that a Premier League title challenge is beyond them given they trail leaders Manchester City by 20 points.

But the German believes there is still plenty for the fourth-placed Reds to play for and they should not get complacent just because City are so far ahead.

&quot;We have to qualify for the Champions League. We have to finish as high as possible,&quot; Klopp said.

&quot;It looks like we could be second, third or fourth this year, that&#39;s a fantastic situation. Not the dream but a fantastic situation.&nbsp;

&quot;That&#39;s what we are working on and for this we have to improve in all departments.

&quot;This year, I don&#39;t think that anyone apart from Manchester City and maybe Manchester United are thinking too much about how they can win the league.

&quot;In a very difficult league, performance-wise we are really consistent so far. If we stay consistent and avoid our mistakes, mistakes like in the 3-3 draw with Arsenal, we will win much more games than we lose or draw.

&quot;As it was and so it will be against Swansea, we have to perform first of all and then we have to see how the other team can react.&quot;

Even though Swansea are at the foot of the table, Klopp does not want his players to assume the result will be a foregone conclusion.

&quot;They are under pressure and that&#39;s clear because they fight for the league, 100 per cent, and that will not change before Boxing Day,&quot; Klopp added.

&quot;But we will be ready and we will perform, if possible, like against Arsenal but avoid the mistakes we made.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&#39;t really remember the game from last year, to be honest. I remember that we lost it. But that&#39;s not the plan!&quot;

Step by step 
Klopp confirmed Liverpool will be without captain Jordan Henderson after he limped out of their 3-3 draw with Arsenal last Friday.

Defender Joel Matip could be fit enough to feature after he recently returning to training following a muscle injury while striker Daniel Sturridge has recovered from illness.

Alberto Moreno (ankle) and Nathanial Clyne (back) remain on the sidelines.

Swansea caretaker manager Leon Britton will take charge of his second game following the sacking of Paul Clement last week.

Britton is a modern-day Swansea great with more than 500 appearances to his name, and guided the club to a 1-1 draw in his first match against Crystal Palace.

A match against free-scoring Liverpool at Anfield, however, will present a somewhat more difficult prospect for the South Wales club.

Swansea striker Jordan Ayew admits the draw against Palace, in which he scored, has helped them take at least some confidence into the trip to Merseyside.

&quot;We all have a job to do. I think we responded well,&quot; Ayew said. &quot;We will take it day by day and see what happens in the future.

&quot;We will do our best to get something out of the game against Liverpool. We will build step by step and things will get better. It is important for us to get a good result.&quot;

Swansea will give a fitness test to striker Wilfried Bony (hamstring) and midfielder Leroy Fer (back), who both missed the game against Palace.

Liverpool are currently fourth in the league

Jurgen Klopp has urged Liverpool to stay motivated to reach their target of a place in next season's Champions League by the end of the season. Klopp has acknowledged ahead of Liverpool's clash with bottom side Swansea at Anfield on Tuesday that a Premier League title challenge is beyond them given they trail leaders Manchester City by 20 points. But the German believes there is still plenty for the fourth-placed Reds to play for and they should not get complacent just because City are so far ahead. "We have to qualify for the Champions League. We have to finish as high as possible," Klopp said. "It looks like we could be second, third or fourth this year, that's a fantastic situation. Not the dream but a fantastic situation. "That's what we are working on and for this we have to improve in all departments. "This year, I don't think that anyone apart from Manchester City and maybe Manchester United are thinking too much about how they can win the league. "In a very difficult league, performance-wise we are really consistent so far. If we stay consistent and avoid our mistakes, mistakes like in the 3-3 draw with Arsenal, we will win much more games than we lose or draw. "As it was and so it will be against Swansea, we have to perform first of all and then we have to see how the other team can react." Even though Swansea are at the foot of the table, Klopp does not want his players to assume the result will be a foregone conclusion. "They are under pressure and that's clear because they fight for the league, 100 per cent, and that will not change before Boxing Day," Klopp added. "But we will be ready and we will perform, if possible, like against Arsenal but avoid the mistakes we made. "I don't really remember the game from last year, to be honest. I remember that we lost it. But that's not the plan!" Step by step Klopp confirmed Liverpool will be without captain Jordan Henderson after he limped out of their 3-3 draw with Arsenal last Friday. Defender Joel Matip could be fit enough to feature after he recently returning to training following a muscle injury while striker Daniel Sturridge has recovered from illness. Alberto Moreno (ankle) and Nathanial Clyne (back) remain on the sidelines. Swansea caretaker manager Leon Britton will take charge of his second game following the sacking of Paul Clement last week. Britton is a modern-day Swansea great with more than 500 appearances to his name, and guided the club to a 1-1 draw in his first match against Crystal Palace. A match against free-scoring Liverpool at Anfield, however, will present a somewhat more difficult prospect for the South Wales club. Swansea striker Jordan Ayew admits the draw against Palace, in which he scored, has helped them take at least some confidence into the trip to Merseyside. "We all have a job to do. I think we responded well," Ayew said. "We will take it day by day and see what happens in the future. "We will do our best to get something out of the game against Liverpool. We will build step by step and things will get better. It is important for us to get a good result." Swansea will give a fitness test to striker Wilfried Bony (hamstring) and midfielder Leroy Fer (back), who both missed the game against Palace.

Klopp: Premier League title beyond us, play for Champions League place

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

Manchester City thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 on Saturday

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

EPL: City make it 17 in a row

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The United States warned the North Korean leadership that it would be &quot;utterly destroyed&quot; if war were to break out, after Pyongyang test-fired its most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile, putting the US mainland within range.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-assams-brahmaputra-river-also-turns-black-report-25476" target="_blank">Now, Assam&#39;s Brahmaputra river also turns black: Report</a>

After reports that the colour of the water of the river Siang in Arunachal Pradesh turned black, comes a report that the water downstream of the river Brahmaputra in Assam has changed to black as well.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-attacks-british-pm-may-after-she-criticises-his-retweeting-of-anti-islam-videos-25473" target="_blank">Trump attacks British PM May after she criticises his retweeting of anti-Islam videos</a>

Donald Trump hit back publicly at British Prime Minister Theresa May after she criticised his retweeting of anti-Islam videos.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bosnian-croat-war-crimes-convict-dies-after-taking-poison-in-court-report-25472" target="_blank">Bosnian-Croat war crimes convict dies after taking &#39;poison&#39; in court: Report</a>

A Bosnian Croat wartime commander died after swallowing what he said was poison in a UN war crimes courtroom on Wednesday after losing an appeal against a 20-year prison sentence, Croatian state TV said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/epl-league-leaders-manchester-city-win-chasers-keep-chasing-25474" target="_blank">EPL: League leaders Manchester City win, chasers keep chasing</a>

With Manchester United having cut the gap with league leaders Manchester City to five points and Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool winning, any City stutter would have been cause for celebration. But Pep Guardiola&#39;s side thundered on with a club record 12th successive league victory.

US warns North Korean leadership will be 'utterly destroyed' if war breaks out The United States warned the North Korean leadership that it would be "utterly destroyed" if war were to break out, after Pyongyang test-fired its most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile, putting the US mainland within range. Now, Assam's Brahmaputra river also turns black: Report After reports that the colour of the water of the river Siang in Arunachal Pradesh turned black, comes a report that the water downstream of the river Brahmaputra in Assam has changed to black as well. Trump attacks British PM May after she criticises his retweeting of anti-Islam videos Donald Trump hit back publicly at British Prime Minister Theresa May after she criticised his retweeting of anti-Islam videos. Bosnian-Croat war crimes convict dies after taking 'poison' in court: Report A Bosnian Croat wartime commander died after swallowing what he said was poison in a UN war crimes courtroom on Wednesday after losing an appeal against a 20-year prison sentence, Croatian state TV said. EPL: League leaders Manchester City win, chasers keep chasing With Manchester United having cut the gap with league leaders Manchester City to five points and Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool winning, any City stutter would have been cause for celebration. But Pep Guardiola's side thundered on with a club record 12th successive league victory.

WION morning news brief, November 30, 2017

Just when the chasing pack thought the Manchester City juggernaut was suffering a misfire Raheem Sterling scored a stunning stoppage-time winner to give the Premier League leaders a 2-1 victory over Southampton on Wednesday.

With Manchester United having cut the gap to five points and Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool winning, any City stutter would have been cause for celebration. But Pep Guardiola&#39;s side thundered on with a club record 12th successive league victory.

Former Chelsea midfielder Oriol Romeu had cancelled out Kevin De Bruyne&#39;s opener in the 75th minute but six minutes into stoppage time Sterling, for the third match running, snatched City&#39;s winner, this time with a sublime curling shot.

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Manager Antonio Conte was sent to the stands after a verbal meltdown at Stamford Bridge as his Chelsea side laboured to a 1-0 defeat of struggling Swansea City at Stamford Bridge. Antonio Rudiger&#39;s first Premier League goal sealed victory.

&quot;I have apologised because I did the wrong thing,&quot; Conte said of his angry reaction to a fourth official when his side were denied a corner in the first half.

&quot;I have been in to see them after the game. It&#39;s right to speak and apologise with them.&quot;

Arsenal struck three goals in four second-half minutes as they thrashed Huddersfield Town 5-0 with Mesut Ozil scoring one and supplying assists for Olivier Giroud, who scored a brace, and Alexis Sanchez.

Alexandre Lacazette&#39;s early goal had separated the sides before the interval although the French striker went off with a suspected groin injury and will probably miss Saturday&#39;s home clash against Manchester United. Arsenal have won 12 consecutive home matches.

Liverpool moved into fifth place with Mohamed Salah taking his tally for the season to a chart-topping 12 thanks to a double in a 3-0 victory at Stoke City.

After 14 games City have 40 points, with United on 32, Chelsea 29, Arsenal 28 and Liverpool 26.

Heady sixth

Burnley rose to a heady sixth, ahead of a sliding Tottenham Hotspur, as Chris Wood and Robbie Brady scored in a 2-1 victory at Bournemouth - their fourth win in five league games.

&quot;Where we are in the league, everyone will be surprised by that,&quot; Burnley boss Sean Dyche said.

Wayne Rooney scored a hat-trick, the third with a wonder goal from inside his own half, as Everton thrashed West Ham United 4-0 on a horrible return to Goodison Park for David Moyes whose West Ham side remained in the bottom three.

Sam Allardyce, who will be named shortly as Everton&#39;s new manager, watched on from the stands as caretaker boss David Unsworth signed off with a victory that lifted Everton to 13th.

Whatever happens below them, City are looking unstoppable and with 40 points from 14 games and a goal difference of 35 they have recorded the best start in Premier League history.

They were not at their fluent best and Southampton came closest to scoring before the break with Wesley Hoedt striking the woodwork for the visitors.

But Sterling&#39;s effort sparked wild celebrations at the Etihad as the former Liverpool player struck yet another late goal to take his tally for the season to 13.

He has now earned City nine extra points this season with his timely interventions and his latest effort was arguably his best, picking out the top corner with an unstoppable effort.

&quot;Raheem is a match-winner, I am so happy for him. He is special, it was an amazing goal. It is more than important, it is beautiful,&quot; Guardiola, whose side have dropped only two points this season, said.

City are now two wins away from matching Arsenal&#39;s record 14-match winning run in the Premier League.

City beat Southampton 2-1. This was City's 12th successive league victory

Just when the chasing pack thought the Manchester City juggernaut was suffering a misfire Raheem Sterling scored a stunning stoppage-time winner to give the Premier League leaders a 2-1 victory over Southampton on Wednesday. With Manchester United having cut the gap to five points and Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool winning, any City stutter would have been cause for celebration. But Pep Guardiola's side thundered on with a club record 12th successive league victory. Former Chelsea midfielder Oriol Romeu had cancelled out Kevin De Bruyne's opener in the 75th minute but six minutes into stoppage time Sterling, for the third match running, snatched City's winner, this time with a sublime curling shot. Manager Antonio Conte was sent to the stands after a verbal meltdown at Stamford Bridge as his Chelsea side laboured to a 1-0 defeat of struggling Swansea City × Manager Antonio Conte was sent to the stands after a verbal meltdown at Stamford Bridge as his Chelsea side laboured to a 1-0 defeat of struggling Swansea City at Stamford Bridge. Antonio Rudiger's first Premier League goal sealed victory. "I have apologised because I did the wrong thing," Conte said of his angry reaction to a fourth official when his side were denied a corner in the first half. "I have been in to see them after the game. It's right to speak and apologise with them." Arsenal struck three goals in four second-half minutes as they thrashed Huddersfield Town 5-0 with Mesut Ozil scoring one and supplying assists for Olivier Giroud, who scored a brace, and Alexis Sanchez. Alexandre Lacazette's early goal had separated the sides before the interval although the French striker went off with a suspected groin injury and will probably miss Saturday's home clash against Manchester United. Arsenal have won 12 consecutive home matches. Liverpool moved into fifth place with Mohamed Salah taking his tally for the season to a chart-topping 12 thanks to a double in a 3-0 victory at Stoke City. After 14 games City have 40 points, with United on 32, Chelsea 29, Arsenal 28 and Liverpool 26. Heady sixth Burnley rose to a heady sixth, ahead of a sliding Tottenham Hotspur, as Chris Wood and Robbie Brady scored in a 2-1 victory at Bournemouth - their fourth win in five league games. "Where we are in the league, everyone will be surprised by that," Burnley boss Sean Dyche said. Wayne Rooney scored a hat-trick, the third with a wonder goal from inside his own half, as Everton thrashed West Ham United 4-0 on a horrible return to Goodison Park for David Moyes whose West Ham side remained in the bottom three. Sam Allardyce, who will be named shortly as Everton's new manager, watched on from the stands as caretaker boss David Unsworth signed off with a victory that lifted Everton to 13th. Whatever happens below them, City are looking unstoppable and with 40 points from 14 games and a goal difference of 35 they have recorded the best start in Premier League history. They were not at their fluent best and Southampton came closest to scoring before the break with Wesley Hoedt striking the woodwork for the visitors. But Sterling's effort sparked wild celebrations at the Etihad as the former Liverpool player struck yet another late goal to take his tally for the season to 13. He has now earned City nine extra points this season with his timely interventions and his latest effort was arguably his best, picking out the top corner with an unstoppable effort. "Raheem is a match-winner, I am so happy for him. He is special, it was an amazing goal. It is more than important, it is beautiful," Guardiola, whose side have dropped only two points this season, said. City are now two wins away from matching Arsenal's record 14-match winning run in the Premier League.

EPL: League leaders Manchester City win, chasers keep chasing

Manchester United sent a timely message to leaders Manchester City as they won 4-2 at Watford but Tottenham Hotspur&#39;s Premier League challenge is fading fast after they slumped to a 2-1 defeat at Leicester City on Tuesday.

Ashley Young was on target for the first time in 18 months as he scored twice for second-placed United who led 3-0 at the break before Watford produced a late fightback.

United&#39;s win moves them to 32 points and they are within five points of leaders City who host Southampton on Wednesday.

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Leicester&#39;s Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez turned the clock back two years as they both scored in a first-half display reminiscent of when the Foxes won the title in 2015-16.

Harry Kane replied for Tottenham after the break but the visitors could not prevent a third defeat in five league games which left them in fifth place -- 13 points off top spot.

West Bromwich Albion&#39;s caretaker manager Gary Megson looked set for a morale-boosting victory as his side led Newcastle United 2-0 with goals from Hal Robson-Kanu and Sam Field.

But Newcastle rallied to avoid a fifth straight league defeat with Ciaran Clark halving the deficit and an own goal by West Brom&#39;s Jonny Evans frustrating the hosts who are expected to name a successor to sacked Tony Pulis this week.

The BBC reported after Tuesday&#39;s match that former Newcastle and Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew, 56, was set to be appointed as the new West Brom manager as early as Wednesday.

Basement club Palace drew 0-0 at Brighton &amp; Hove Albion to move level on nine points with second-bottom Swansea City.

Likely challengers

Pep Guardiola&#39;s Manchester City look unstoppable but neighbours United are emerging as their most likely challengers with a derby looming next month.

United have been hamstrung by their poor away form, losing their last two on the road in the league, but they found a cure for travel sickness at a freezing Vicarage Road where manager Jose Mourinho said they could have scored seven or eight goals.

As it was they were hanging on towards the end after Tory Deeney&#39;s converted a 77th minute penalty and Abdoulaye Doucoure stabbed home to make it 3-2 with six minutes left before Jesse Lingard&#39;s superb solo goal sealed the win.

&quot;The second half should have been five or six nil, it was easier to score than the first,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;We missed chances. Out of nothing, they got a penalty for 3-1, then it was a different game. We should be smoking cigars but then we&#39;re in trouble.

&quot;It&#39;s important we have three wins in a row, nine points in three matches is good.&quot;

Former Watford winger Young had put United ahead after 19 minutes with a powerful near-post effort, celebrating by cupping his ear to the home faithful who responded with boos.

He topped that with a superb free kick that gave goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes no chance six minutes later.

Anthony Martial made it 3-0 in the 32nd but home substitute Deeney&#39;s spot kick breathed new life into the hosts who began the night seeking a third straight league win of their own.

Needless to say their manager Marco Silva was not inclined to agree with fellow Portuguese Mourinho&#39;s verdict that United could have won by a much larger margin.

&quot;The result is hard to take for us, we didn&#39;t deserve this result,&quot; he said.

United beat Watford 4-2, Tottenham lost 1-2 to Leicester City

Manchester United sent a timely message to leaders Manchester City as they won 4-2 at Watford but Tottenham Hotspur's Premier League challenge is fading fast after they slumped to a 2-1 defeat at Leicester City on Tuesday. Ashley Young was on target for the first time in 18 months as he scored twice for second-placed United who led 3-0 at the break before Watford produced a late fightback. United's win moves them to 32 points and they are within five points of leaders City who host Southampton on Wednesday. United's win moves them to 32 points and they are within five points of leaders City who host Southampton on Wednesday × Leicester's Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez turned the clock back two years as they both scored in a first-half display reminiscent of when the Foxes won the title in 2015-16. Harry Kane replied for Tottenham after the break but the visitors could not prevent a third defeat in five league games which left them in fifth place -- 13 points off top spot. West Bromwich Albion's caretaker manager Gary Megson looked set for a morale-boosting victory as his side led Newcastle United 2-0 with goals from Hal Robson-Kanu and Sam Field. But Newcastle rallied to avoid a fifth straight league defeat with Ciaran Clark halving the deficit and an own goal by West Brom's Jonny Evans frustrating the hosts who are expected to name a successor to sacked Tony Pulis this week. The BBC reported after Tuesday's match that former Newcastle and Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew, 56, was set to be appointed as the new West Brom manager as early as Wednesday. Basement club Palace drew 0-0 at Brighton & Hove Albion to move level on nine points with second-bottom Swansea City. Likely challengers Pep Guardiola's Manchester City look unstoppable but neighbours United are emerging as their most likely challengers with a derby looming next month. United have been hamstrung by their poor away form, losing their last two on the road in the league, but they found a cure for travel sickness at a freezing Vicarage Road where manager Jose Mourinho said they could have scored seven or eight goals. As it was they were hanging on towards the end after Tory Deeney's converted a 77th minute penalty and Abdoulaye Doucoure stabbed home to make it 3-2 with six minutes left before Jesse Lingard's superb solo goal sealed the win. "The second half should have been five or six nil, it was easier to score than the first," Mourinho said. "We missed chances. Out of nothing, they got a penalty for 3-1, then it was a different game. We should be smoking cigars but then we're in trouble. "It's important we have three wins in a row, nine points in three matches is good." Former Watford winger Young had put United ahead after 19 minutes with a powerful near-post effort, celebrating by cupping his ear to the home faithful who responded with boos. He topped that with a superb free kick that gave goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes no chance six minutes later. Anthony Martial made it 3-0 in the 32nd but home substitute Deeney's spot kick breathed new life into the hosts who began the night seeking a third straight league win of their own. Needless to say their manager Marco Silva was not inclined to agree with fellow Portuguese Mourinho's verdict that United could have won by a much larger margin. "The result is hard to take for us, we didn't deserve this result," he said.

EPL: Man United stay in touch, Tottenham stumble again

Arsene Wenger says it will be &quot;difficult&quot; for any team to stop Manchester City from winning the Premier League after his Arsenal side lost 3-1 at the Etihad on Sunday - a result which left him fuming at referee Michael Oliver.

Wenger said City&#39;s quality, shown in their club record 15 straight wins in all competitions, makes it hard to imagine any team overtaking them but he also took aim at the officials after his team suffered a disputed penalty and a goal which appeared offside.

The win gave City an eight-point lead over Manchester United ahead of their game at Chelsea later on Sunday and left them 12 points clear of the Gunners.

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<h5>Can anyone stop them? It will be difficult this season, the way they have started the quality they have, but you never know. If, on top of that, they have decisions at home like that, they will be unstoppable,&#39; Wenger told reporters</h5>
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&quot;Can anyone stop them? It will be difficult this season, the way they have started the quality they have, but you never know. If, on top of that, they have decisions at home like that, they will be unstoppable,&quot; Wenger told reporters.

City went 2-0 up five minutes into the second half after referee Oliver ruled that Nacho Monreal had bundled over Raheem Sterling inside the area and Sergio Aguero converted from the spot.

Arsenal players disputed that decision and were also upset that City&#39;s third goal came after a pass from David Silva whom television replays showed was narrowly in an offside position.

&quot;I don&rsquo;t want to take anything away from the quality but it happened at a moment when we were really in the game at 2-1 and it killed the game. It is the second year. We got two offside goals here last year and one this year,&quot; Wenger added.

The Frenchman felt his team had created opportunities and were in the contest until the controversial third goal.

&quot;I felt it was an intense game of quality of both sides. Man City are on a high but I felt we had plenty of dangerous situations and chances,&quot; he said.

&quot;Overall, once again, the referee made the decision again, with a penalty and an offside goal. We are used to it when we come here,&quot; he said.

&quot;I feel they (referees) don&rsquo;t work enough, because it happens every season. It is unacceptable&quot;.

Arsenal lost 3-1 to City at the Etihad on Sunday

Arsene Wenger says it will be "difficult" for any team to stop Manchester City from winning the Premier League after his Arsenal side lost 3-1 at the Etihad on Sunday - a result which left him fuming at referee Michael Oliver. Wenger said City's quality, shown in their club record 15 straight wins in all competitions, makes it hard to imagine any team overtaking them but he also took aim at the officials after his team suffered a disputed penalty and a goal which appeared offside. The win gave City an eight-point lead over Manchester United ahead of their game at Chelsea later on Sunday and left them 12 points clear of the Gunners. Can anyone stop them? It will be difficult this season, the way they have started the quality they have, but you never know. If, on top of that, they have decisions at home like that, they will be unstoppable,' Wenger told reporters × "Can anyone stop them? It will be difficult this season, the way they have started the quality they have, but you never know. If, on top of that, they have decisions at home like that, they will be unstoppable," Wenger told reporters. City went 2-0 up five minutes into the second half after referee Oliver ruled that Nacho Monreal had bundled over Raheem Sterling inside the area and Sergio Aguero converted from the spot. Arsenal players disputed that decision and were also upset that City's third goal came after a pass from David Silva whom television replays showed was narrowly in an offside position. "I don’t want to take anything away from the quality but it happened at a moment when we were really in the game at 2-1 and it killed the game. It is the second year. We got two offside goals here last year and one this year," Wenger added. The Frenchman felt his team had created opportunities and were in the contest until the controversial third goal. "I felt it was an intense game of quality of both sides. Man City are on a high but I felt we had plenty of dangerous situations and chances," he said. "Overall, once again, the referee made the decision again, with a penalty and an offside goal. We are used to it when we come here," he said. "I feel they (referees) don’t work enough, because it happens every season. It is unacceptable".

EPL: Wenger says 'difficult' to see anyone stopping City

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho insisted his side&#39;s Premier League title ambitions were still intact despite a 1-0 loss away to former club Chelsea on Sunday.

Alvaro Morata&#39;s 55th-minute goal at Stamford Bridge was enough to give reigning champions Chelsea victory and leave United eight points behind in-form leaders Manchester City. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/epl-wenger-says-difficult-to-see-anyone-stopping-city-23555" target="_blank">Also read: Wenger says &#39;difficult&#39; to see anyone stopping City</a>

&quot;We are second -- not fifth, sixth or seventh or eight,&quot; Mourinho told Sky Sports after his third straight loss at Stamford Bridge since he became United manager.

&quot;We have several teams in a more difficult position than we have. Eight points is eight points.

&quot;We went through a very difficult phase with important matches against Tottenham, Liverpool and Chelsea without important players.&quot;

The Portuguese manager added: &quot;The game was controlled by us and the game was controlled by them. We had chances and they had chances and with the first goal they were able to bring more people to defend.&nbsp;

&quot;We tried to change the direction of our game, we created chances to equalise but we couldn&#39;t.

&quot;We had chances. If I remember (Romelu) Lukaku shot in the first half and in the last part of the game with the (Marcus) Rashford shot...We had lots of chances to score goals,&quot; Mourinho said.

Victory saw Chelsea move to within nine points of top spot and eased the pressure on the London club&#39;s Italian manager Antonio Conte following a 3-0 loss away to Roma in the Champions League earlier this week.

&quot;It&rsquo;s an important victory,&quot; said Conte. &quot;When you play against Manchester United it&rsquo;s always a massive game. This type of win is important for our confidence. We showed great desire and passion to win this kind of game.

&ldquo;We can win or lose but our spirit must be this. Last season our spirit was in every game -&ndash; we started this season with a lot of problems. We were up and down. This game showed if we want we can.&quot;

Chelsea defender David Luiz was not even on the bench for this match and Conte was coy when asked if the Brazilian, in his second stint with the Blues, still had future with the west London club. &nbsp;

&quot;I don&rsquo;t know,&quot; Conte replied. &quot;He has to work really hard otherwise they are on the bench or in the stand.&rdquo;

Meanwhile Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, who said the Blues might have won by an even bigger margin, was proud of the team&#39;s resilience.

&quot;It is fantastic to defend well but this is a team full of fantastic players and we need to take advantage of that,&quot; he said. &quot;We played like a big team, defended like a big team and we have to be proud.&quot;

United are eight points behind league leaders Manchester City

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho insisted his side's Premier League title ambitions were still intact despite a 1-0 loss away to former club Chelsea on Sunday. Alvaro Morata's 55th-minute goal at Stamford Bridge was enough to give reigning champions Chelsea victory and leave United eight points behind in-form leaders Manchester City. Also read: Wenger says 'difficult' to see anyone stopping City "We are second -- not fifth, sixth or seventh or eight," Mourinho told Sky Sports after his third straight loss at Stamford Bridge since he became United manager. "We have several teams in a more difficult position than we have. Eight points is eight points. "We went through a very difficult phase with important matches against Tottenham, Liverpool and Chelsea without important players." The Portuguese manager added: "The game was controlled by us and the game was controlled by them. We had chances and they had chances and with the first goal they were able to bring more people to defend. "We tried to change the direction of our game, we created chances to equalise but we couldn't. "We had chances. If I remember (Romelu) Lukaku shot in the first half and in the last part of the game with the (Marcus) Rashford shot...We had lots of chances to score goals," Mourinho said. Victory saw Chelsea move to within nine points of top spot and eased the pressure on the London club's Italian manager Antonio Conte following a 3-0 loss away to Roma in the Champions League earlier this week. "It’s an important victory," said Conte. "When you play against Manchester United it’s always a massive game. This type of win is important for our confidence. We showed great desire and passion to win this kind of game. “We can win or lose but our spirit must be this. Last season our spirit was in every game -– we started this season with a lot of problems. We were up and down. This game showed if we want we can." Chelsea defender David Luiz was not even on the bench for this match and Conte was coy when asked if the Brazilian, in his second stint with the Blues, still had future with the west London club. "I don’t know," Conte replied. "He has to work really hard otherwise they are on the bench or in the stand.” Meanwhile Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, who said the Blues might have won by an even bigger margin, was proud of the team's resilience. "It is fantastic to defend well but this is a team full of fantastic players and we need to take advantage of that," he said. "We played like a big team, defended like a big team and we have to be proud."

EPL: ManU lose to Chelsea, Mourinho says title ambitions intact

By&nbsp;

Rahul Dalal 
&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with WION, former England football player&nbsp;Alan Shearer talks about his second visit to India, the English Premier League, the Liverpool-Manchester United rivalry and much more...

Q:&nbsp;This is your second trip to India, you&#39;ve seen this and done this before in Mumbai. What do you expect from this one here in Bengaluru and how it&#39;ll be better this time?

Shearer: It was a great experience in Mumbai earlier this year to be a part of that. It showed how much India loves football. We are here to pass on our expertise from the Premier League to the Indian Super League which is getting bigger and better.

We are here to improve the fan experience. I&#39;m reliably told there are close to forty thousand fans expected to be here at the Premier League Live Screening in Bengaluru over Saturday and Sunday.

Q: When so many fans get together, there&#39;s always going to be banter. There will be when there&#39;s such a big game to look forward to? When you meet your fellow legends is there a lot of banter as well?

Shearer: A lot of us don&#39;t know each other. But we&#39;ve come together after we&#39;ve finished playing as we meet each other a lot while doing media events. You always have a bit of a laugh as we have a lot of banter.

Back in the day, it was all serious business out on the pitch. But now when we look back and reflect, we feel perhaps we shouldn&#39;t have been that aggressive at that moment.

We all wanted to win at that time and wouldn&#39;t have it any other way. It feels good to catch up with these great players again.

Q: Coming to that big match, the biggest game of the English season. History, heated rivalry. Where could it be decided?

Shearer: It is a huge fixture in the Premier League calendar because of the size of the clubs, fans, tradition and history. These two giants have dominated English football for a long time. Liverpool have even dominated in Europe as well.

They are popular not only in England but also across the world. As for the match on Saturday, Jose Mourinho and his boys will try to frustrate Liverpool. Liverpool only have one plan when they take the field.

They will try to press and win the ball in the Man Utd half.

I was in attendance at Anfield couple of weeks back when they played Newcastle United. They created so many chances they could&#39;ve been cruising comfortably at half-time but they failed to take them.

But then there&#39;s the same old problem that is the defence where they are too wide open. Newcastle got the equaliser and they lost two points.

Liverpool have no chance of winning the Premier League when they play like that. They haven&#39;t improved their defence from last season. And if they don&#39;t improve, they won&#39;t win the league.

Having said that, given how Liverpool have performed against the big teams, I wouldn&#39;t be surprised if they go out there and get a result against Manchester United.

Q:&nbsp;Interesting point you&#39;re bringing up. Why is it that Liverpool seem to show up for the big matches and why do they tend slip up against the bottom teams?

Shearer: A lot of teams go out there and fancy their chances against Liverpool. That actually suits them because Liverpool have a plethora of attacking talent. But when teams sit deeper, play compact and frustrate them. I think Manchester United will try and do that.

Q:&nbsp;They did that last year, Jose Mourinho tried to park the bus. And succeeded to an extent. Do you think a similar result will be in store this time round?

Shearer: I think Mourinho and Manchester United will go to Anfield to try and frustrate them. They will keep it tight at the back. Although Mourinho has a better team this time than he did last season.

They&#39;re scoring more goals as well. I still think Mourinho will go out there and try to pull off a typical Mourinho Masterclass that is he&#39;ll try to frustrate Liverpool.

Q: If Manchester United fail to get three points from this fixture, would it be significant?

Shearer: If Manchester United don&#39;t get the three points, it will damage their title credentials obviously. But if Liverpool are to be beaten then they are out of the title race.

They will be 10 points behind United, so they can&#39;t afford that. If United don&#39;t get the three points it&#39;ll be hard for them to digest, but it won&#39;t be a disaster.&nbsp;

England football legend Alan Shearer said he had a great experience in Mumbai

By Rahul Dalal In an exclusive interview with WION, former England football player Alan Shearer talks about his second visit to India, the English Premier League, the Liverpool-Manchester United rivalry and much more... Q: This is your second trip to India, you've seen this and done this before in Mumbai. What do you expect from this one here in Bengaluru and how it'll be better this time? Shearer: It was a great experience in Mumbai earlier this year to be a part of that. It showed how much India loves football. We are here to pass on our expertise from the Premier League to the Indian Super League which is getting bigger and better. We are here to improve the fan experience. I'm reliably told there are close to forty thousand fans expected to be here at the Premier League Live Screening in Bengaluru over Saturday and Sunday. Q: When so many fans get together, there's always going to be banter. There will be when there's such a big game to look forward to? When you meet your fellow legends is there a lot of banter as well? Shearer: A lot of us don't know each other. But we've come together after we've finished playing as we meet each other a lot while doing media events. You always have a bit of a laugh as we have a lot of banter. Back in the day, it was all serious business out on the pitch. But now when we look back and reflect, we feel perhaps we shouldn't have been that aggressive at that moment. We all wanted to win at that time and wouldn't have it any other way. It feels good to catch up with these great players again. Q: Coming to that big match, the biggest game of the English season. History, heated rivalry. Where could it be decided? Shearer: It is a huge fixture in the Premier League calendar because of the size of the clubs, fans, tradition and history. These two giants have dominated English football for a long time. Liverpool have even dominated in Europe as well. They are popular not only in England but also across the world. As for the match on Saturday, Jose Mourinho and his boys will try to frustrate Liverpool. Liverpool only have one plan when they take the field. They will try to press and win the ball in the Man Utd half. I was in attendance at Anfield couple of weeks back when they played Newcastle United. They created so many chances they could've been cruising comfortably at half-time but they failed to take them. But then there's the same old problem that is the defence where they are too wide open. Newcastle got the equaliser and they lost two points. Liverpool have no chance of winning the Premier League when they play like that. They haven't improved their defence from last season. And if they don't improve, they won't win the league. Having said that, given how Liverpool have performed against the big teams, I wouldn't be surprised if they go out there and get a result against Manchester United. Q: Interesting point you're bringing up. Why is it that Liverpool seem to show up for the big matches and why do they tend slip up against the bottom teams? Shearer: A lot of teams go out there and fancy their chances against Liverpool. That actually suits them because Liverpool have a plethora of attacking talent. But when teams sit deeper, play compact and frustrate them. I think Manchester United will try and do that. Q: They did that last year, Jose Mourinho tried to park the bus. And succeeded to an extent. Do you think a similar result will be in store this time round? Shearer: I think Mourinho and Manchester United will go to Anfield to try and frustrate them. They will keep it tight at the back. Although Mourinho has a better team this time than he did last season. They're scoring more goals as well. I still think Mourinho will go out there and try to pull off a typical Mourinho Masterclass that is he'll try to frustrate Liverpool. Q: If Manchester United fail to get three points from this fixture, would it be significant? Shearer: If Manchester United don't get the three points, it will damage their title credentials obviously. But if Liverpool are to be beaten then they are out of the title race. They will be 10 points behind United, so they can't afford that. If United don't get the three points it'll be hard for them to digest, but it won't be a disaster.

Watch WION Exclusive: India loves football, says?Alan Shearer