Mauricio Pochettino accused Tottenham players of not taking the second half seriously after conceding twice in five minutes at Southampton, a 2-1 defeat that threatens their Champions League qualification for next season.

Days after securing a place in the season's quarter-finals, third-placed Spurs face a battle to hang on to a top-four place in domestic competition and Spurs manager Pochettino questioned his players' mentality.

"We need to realise if you do not fight with intensity for the Champions League, you will struggle," said Pochettino, whose side appeared to be cruising at St Mary's after Harry Kane scored his 200th career goal on 26 minutes.

But Saints revived after the interval, battling to an unexpected three points.

"The reality is you cannot only play for 45 minutes, we are a Champions League team, into the quarter-finals," said Pochettino, whose side beat high-flying Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in Germany on Tuesday to complete a 4-0 aggregate win.

"When you lose the momentum after 45 minutes, that is about mentality. For us, we lost the momentum and gave them relief. It is so difficult to understand why we changed so much from the first half to the second," Pochettino added.

"I am very disappointed, we were better in everything and then we lose the game. It is about competing better for the first goal if you want to be a contender for big things. The second half we did not take it seriously."

For much of this season a top-four place looked assured but three defeats and one draw in four games -- their worst league run for 15 months -- has left Spurs three points ahead of fourth-placed Manchester United, with Arsenal and Chelsea close behind.

"We are fighting against big sides (for the top four)," said Pochettino. "We had a big gap, welcome to the reality, we are under pressure to win games. It is a massive challenge for us."

Tottenham have three weeks to prepare for their next league game at Anfield against a Liverpool team still firmly in the title chase.

Mauricio Pochettino accused Tottenham players of not taking the second half seriously after conceding twice in five minutes at Southampton, a 2-1 defeat that threatens their Champions League qualification for next season.

Mauricio Pochettino accused Tottenham players of not taking the second half seriously after conceding twice in five minutes at Southampton, a 2-1 defeat that threatens their Champions League qualification for next season. Days after securing a place in the season's quarter-finals, third-placed Spurs face a battle to hang on to a top-four place in domestic competition and Spurs manager Pochettino questioned his players' mentality. "We need to realise if you do not fight with intensity for the Champions League, you will struggle," said Pochettino, whose side appeared to be cruising at St Mary's after Harry Kane scored his 200th career goal on 26 minutes. But Saints revived after the interval, battling to an unexpected three points. "The reality is you cannot only play for 45 minutes, we are a Champions League team, into the quarter-finals," said Pochettino, whose side beat high-flying Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in Germany on Tuesday to complete a 4-0 aggregate win. "When you lose the momentum after 45 minutes, that is about mentality. For us, we lost the momentum and gave them relief. It is so difficult to understand why we changed so much from the first half to the second," Pochettino added. "I am very disappointed, we were better in everything and then we lose the game. It is about competing better for the first goal if you want to be a contender for big things. The second half we did not take it seriously." For much of this season a top-four place looked assured but three defeats and one draw in four games -- their worst league run for 15 months -- has left Spurs three points ahead of fourth-placed Manchester United, with Arsenal and Chelsea close behind. "We are fighting against big sides (for the top four)," said Pochettino. "We had a big gap, welcome to the reality, we are under pressure to win games. It is a massive challenge for us." Tottenham have three weeks to prepare for their next league game at Anfield against a Liverpool team still firmly in the title chase.

Pochettino criticises Spurs players after Southampton loss

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal.&nbsp;

Hazard smashed the ball past Rui Patricio in the 92nd minute after constant pressure from the home side, who are bidding for a top-four place.&nbsp;

Chelsea had been stunned in the 57th minute when Jimenez burst out of defence with Diogo Jota and the pair sliced through Chelsea's ranks before the Portuguese laid off the ball from wide for Jimenez to slot home.&nbsp;

Patricio made a sharp save shortly afterwards from striker Gonzalo Higuain and another from Willian in the dying minutes. Chelsea had 22 shots to the visitors' two and also enjoyed 76 per cent of possession.&nbsp;

The result leaves Chelsea in the sixth, level with Arsenal and behind Manchester United who were playing each other later on Sunday.&nbsp;

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal.

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal. Hazard smashed the ball past Rui Patricio in the 92nd minute after constant pressure from the home side, who are bidding for a top-four place. Chelsea had been stunned in the 57th minute when Jimenez burst out of defence with Diogo Jota and the pair sliced through Chelsea's ranks before the Portuguese laid off the ball from wide for Jimenez to slot home. Patricio made a sharp save shortly afterwards from striker Gonzalo Higuain and another from Willian in the dying minutes. Chelsea had 22 shots to the visitors' two and also enjoyed 76 per cent of possession. The result leaves Chelsea in the sixth, level with Arsenal and behind Manchester United who were playing each other later on Sunday.

Eden Hazard saves point for Chelsea in 1-1 draw with Wolves

Two goals each for Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane helped Liverpool to keep in touch with Premier League leaders Manchester City with a 4-2 win over lowly Burnley at Anfield on Sunday.

Juergen Klopp's side move to 73 points, one behind City, who beat Watford 3-1 on Saturday. Both teams have eight games remaining.

Liverpool came through this tricky fixture, played in high wind and sporadic showers, helped by some generous gifts from the Burnley defence and while they were not at their very best Klopp was still pleased.

"Good game, difficult but good. It is always difficult against Burnley. In the circumstances, even more difficult. 4-2 is a brilliant result," he said.

The German chose to recall Adam Lallana to his midfield, at the expense of Jordan Henderson, and the former Southampton midfielder, whose career has been hampered by injury, delivered a fine showing.

"I told him, if he can play like he trained, then he will help us a lot and that is exactly how it happened," said Klopp.

It was the visitors though, who took a surprise lead in the sixth minute, with Ashley Westwood scoring direct from a corner although Burnley's James Tarkowski looked to have impeded Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker.

If Burnley's strategy was to frustrate their opponents and create some nervous tension in the stadium it was working well but they were undone by unusually sloppy work at the back.

Tarkowski and Clarets keeper Tom Heaton got in each other's way as they made a mess of a low cross from Mohamed Salah and Firmino was left with the simplest of tap-ins to equalise.

The tension having eased, Mane then put Liverpool ahead with a fine, curling finish after a poor clearance from Jeff Hendrick was blocked by Lallana.

Burnley started the second half well but the outcome was put beyond doubt in the 67th minute when Heaton poorly kicked straight to Salah, the Egyptian bursting into the area, and Charlie Taylor's sliding tackle fell kindly to Firmino who made no mistake.

Substitute Johann Berg Gudmundsson pulled back a goal in stoppage time for 17th-placed Burnley who remain two points above the relegation zone.

For a moment, with winger Dwight McNeil causing problems on Liverpool's right with his dribbling and crosses, Burnley threatened an improbable comeback.

But after another cheap giveaway Mane added a fourth goal to make sure of the three points, rounding Heaton and slotting into the empty net.

While Klopp can turn his attention to Wednesday's Champions League second-leg match away to Bayern Munich, Burnley manager Sean Dyche has eight games to keep his team in the top flight.

The Burnley boss was pleased with his team's mentality but said they had paid the price for their defensive errors.

"You cannot give a team like Liverpool four goals -- we certainly gave them three. You can question the errors but we certainly made a game of it," he said.

Two goals each for Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane helped Liverpool to keep in touch with Premier League leaders Manchester City with a 4-2 win over lowly Burnley at Anfield on Sunday.

Two goals each for Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane helped Liverpool to keep in touch with Premier League leaders Manchester City with a 4-2 win over lowly Burnley at Anfield on Sunday. Juergen Klopp's side move to 73 points, one behind City, who beat Watford 3-1 on Saturday. Both teams have eight games remaining. Liverpool came through this tricky fixture, played in high wind and sporadic showers, helped by some generous gifts from the Burnley defence and while they were not at their very best Klopp was still pleased. "Good game, difficult but good. It is always difficult against Burnley. In the circumstances, even more difficult. 4-2 is a brilliant result," he said. The German chose to recall Adam Lallana to his midfield, at the expense of Jordan Henderson, and the former Southampton midfielder, whose career has been hampered by injury, delivered a fine showing. "I told him, if he can play like he trained, then he will help us a lot and that is exactly how it happened," said Klopp. It was the visitors though, who took a surprise lead in the sixth minute, with Ashley Westwood scoring direct from a corner although Burnley's James Tarkowski looked to have impeded Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker. If Burnley's strategy was to frustrate their opponents and create some nervous tension in the stadium it was working well but they were undone by unusually sloppy work at the back. Tarkowski and Clarets keeper Tom Heaton got in each other's way as they made a mess of a low cross from Mohamed Salah and Firmino was left with the simplest of tap-ins to equalise. The tension having eased, Mane then put Liverpool ahead with a fine, curling finish after a poor clearance from Jeff Hendrick was blocked by Lallana. Burnley started the second half well but the outcome was put beyond doubt in the 67th minute when Heaton poorly kicked straight to Salah, the Egyptian bursting into the area, and Charlie Taylor's sliding tackle fell kindly to Firmino who made no mistake. Substitute Johann Berg Gudmundsson pulled back a goal in stoppage time for 17th-placed Burnley who remain two points above the relegation zone. For a moment, with winger Dwight McNeil causing problems on Liverpool's right with his dribbling and crosses, Burnley threatened an improbable comeback. But after another cheap giveaway Mane added a fourth goal to make sure of the three points, rounding Heaton and slotting into the empty net. While Klopp can turn his attention to Wednesday's Champions League second-leg match away to Bayern Munich, Burnley manager Sean Dyche has eight games to keep his team in the top flight. The Burnley boss was pleased with his team's mentality but said they had paid the price for their defensive errors. "You cannot give a team like Liverpool four goals -- we certainly gave them three. You can question the errors but we certainly made a game of it," he said.

Firmino and Mane sink Burnley to keep Liverpool in the race

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said that each player needs to put in their 100 per cent as they get ready to host in-form Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday.&nbsp;

During the pre-match conference, Emery said, "We know Sunday will be a tough match. It's for everybody an amazing match with very good players and we are going to play at home with our supporters."&nbsp;

He added, "We need a very big performance from each player and tactically like a team."&nbsp;

The Gunners lost 3-1 at Rennes in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, whilst the day before United qualified for the UCL quarter-finals with an incredible comeback to beat Paris St-Germain.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Applying the finishing touches 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARSMUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARSMUN</a> <a href="https://t.co/kDIu0xWQ7L">pic.twitter.com/kDIu0xWQ7L</a>
— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/1104582648951918592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Manchester United look to end the historic week with a 15th win in 18 games under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.&nbsp;

Still unbeaten domestically since Solskjaer took charge, United head to the Emirates Stadium - a ground where they beat 'the Gunners' 3-1 in the FA Cup in January.&nbsp;

"I am looking forward also to playing against a team like Manchester United, and how they are in this moment with each player, with a very big confidence after the match on Wednesday (win over PSG in the UEFA Champions League)," said Emery.&nbsp;

Just a point separates the sides in the Premier League table.&nbsp;

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said that each player needs to put in their 100 per cent as they get ready to host in-form Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said that each player needs to put in their 100 per cent as they get ready to host in-form Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday. During the pre-match conference, Emery said, "We know Sunday will be a tough match. It's for everybody an amazing match with very good players and we are going to play at home with our supporters." He added, "We need a very big performance from each player and tactically like a team." The Gunners lost 3-1 at Rennes in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, whilst the day before United qualified for the UCL quarter-finals with an incredible comeback to beat Paris St-Germain. Applying the finishing touches 👌#ARSMUN pic.twitter.com/kDIu0xWQ7L — Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) March 10, 2019 × Manchester United look to end the historic week with a 15th win in 18 games under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Still unbeaten domestically since Solskjaer took charge, United head to the Emirates Stadium - a ground where they beat 'the Gunners' 3-1 in the FA Cup in January. "I am looking forward also to playing against a team like Manchester United, and how they are in this moment with each player, with a very big confidence after the match on Wednesday (win over PSG in the UEFA Champions League)," said Emery. Just a point separates the sides in the Premier League table.

Arsenal need 'very big performance' against Manchester United, says Unai Emery

"We have played incredible over the last two months," said Manchester City boss <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Pep+Guardiola">Pep Guardiola</a> and hopes that his side can maintain their current form till the end of the season.&nbsp;

In a pre-match conference, Guardiola said, "Incredible amount of games we won, especially in the last two to three weeks how well we have played."&nbsp;

"Now we'd like to continue that way. In the end, there is a consequence in our results for the way we play. I would like to finish in that way but it's not easy now," he added.&nbsp;

Manchester City have leapfrogged Liverpool in the Premier League and moved a point clear last weekend and they will play Watford at home in the league on Saturday.&nbsp;

"In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race," he said.&nbsp;

City's Spanish coach referred to all three matches the team will play this week (Premier League vs Watford, FA Cup vs Swansea City and UEFA Champions League vs Schalke) and said, "This week we have three games in three different competitions that allow us to go through or out."&nbsp;

"In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race. But in the other competitions (those matches) are absolute finals."&nbsp;

They are still in the FA Cup and lead Schalke 3-2 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.&nbsp;

"We have played incredible over the last two months," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and hopes that his side can maintain their current form till the end of the season.

"We have played incredible over the last two months," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and hopes that his side can maintain their current form till the end of the season. In a pre-match conference, Guardiola said, "Incredible amount of games we won, especially in the last two to three weeks how well we have played." "Now we'd like to continue that way. In the end, there is a consequence in our results for the way we play. I would like to finish in that way but it's not easy now," he added. Manchester City have leapfrogged Liverpool in the Premier League and moved a point clear last weekend and they will play Watford at home in the league on Saturday. "In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race," he said. City's Spanish coach referred to all three matches the team will play this week (Premier League vs Watford, FA Cup vs Swansea City and UEFA Champions League vs Schalke) and said, "This week we have three games in three different competitions that allow us to go through or out." "In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race. But in the other competitions (those matches) are absolute finals." They are still in the FA Cup and lead Schalke 3-2 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.

Pep Guardiola hopes 'incredible' Manchester City can maintain form

Chelsea&nbsp;have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad.

The Blues were banned from signing players for the next two transfer windows after being found guilty last month of breaching regulations relating to the recruitment of minors.

Chelsea&nbsp;denied any wrongdoing and subsequently <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-confirm-chelsea-appeal-against-transfer-ban-201419">lodged an appeal</a> with the governing body.

However, FIFA's appeal committee has announced that an application by the club for "provisional measures" has been rejected.

The announcement left&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;fuming and the Premier League club were quick to hit back.

"Chelsea&nbsp;Football Club is astonished by the FIFA Appeal Committee's decision not to suspend its sanction pending completion of the appeal process," a&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;statement said on Friday.

"The club acted in accordance with the relevant regulations and has already notified FIFA of its intention to appeal against the Disciplinary Committee's decision and sanction.

"As a matter of procedural fairness and equality of treatment, and Swiss law, the Club's right to an appeal process must be afforded, before any irremediable sanction takes effect.

"So far as the Club is aware, in all previous cases where a registration ban has been imposed by FIFA, a decision has also been made to suspend the sanction until the appeal process has been completed."

FIFA's decision means the original restrictions stand and&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;will be unable to recruit new players this summer or in the January 2020 transfer window.

In similar cases, Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were each granted provisional measures which ensured bans were not immediately enforced.

Chelsea&nbsp;feel their treatment is inconsistent and will consider their next steps once written reasons for the decision are received from FIFA. This could include an appeal against this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).&nbsp;

"In this case,&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;considers that it is being treated inconsistently in comparison with other European clubs," the statement said.

We will consider our next steps once we have received the written reasons for this decision from FIFA.&nbsp;

"The Club notes the Appeal Committee’s statement that it has the right to appeal to CAS. In the meantime the Club will continue to fully cooperate with the proceedings."

Chelsea have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad.

Chelsea have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad. The Blues were banned from signing players for the next two transfer windows after being found guilty last month of breaching regulations relating to the recruitment of minors. Chelsea denied any wrongdoing and subsequently lodged an appeal with the governing body. However, FIFA's appeal committee has announced that an application by the club for "provisional measures" has been rejected. The announcement left Chelsea fuming and the Premier League club were quick to hit back. "Chelsea Football Club is astonished by the FIFA Appeal Committee's decision not to suspend its sanction pending completion of the appeal process," a Chelsea statement said on Friday. "The club acted in accordance with the relevant regulations and has already notified FIFA of its intention to appeal against the Disciplinary Committee's decision and sanction. "As a matter of procedural fairness and equality of treatment, and Swiss law, the Club's right to an appeal process must be afforded, before any irremediable sanction takes effect. "So far as the Club is aware, in all previous cases where a registration ban has been imposed by FIFA, a decision has also been made to suspend the sanction until the appeal process has been completed." FIFA's decision means the original restrictions stand and Chelsea will be unable to recruit new players this summer or in the January 2020 transfer window. In similar cases, Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were each granted provisional measures which ensured bans were not immediately enforced. Chelsea feel their treatment is inconsistent and will consider their next steps once written reasons for the decision are received from FIFA. This could include an appeal against this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). "In this case, Chelsea considers that it is being treated inconsistently in comparison with other European clubs," the statement said. We will consider our next steps once we have received the written reasons for this decision from FIFA. "The Club notes the Appeal Committee’s statement that it has the right to appeal to CAS. In the meantime the Club will continue to fully cooperate with the proceedings."

Chelsea 'astonished' by FIFA transfer snub

The Premier League said on Friday it had opened an investigation into alleged Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches by champions Manchester City after UEFA had begun its own probe into the allegations.

European soccer's governing body opened a formal investigation into the alleged FFP violations on Thursday, a move City welcomed in a bid to end speculation surrounding the club's sponsorship agreements.

The FFP rules are intended to prevent clubs receiving unlimited amounts of money through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to the owners.

"The Premier League has previously contacted Manchester City to request information regarding recent allegations and is in ongoing dialogue with the club," the Premier League said in a statement.

"The league has detailed financial regulations and strong rules in the areas of Academy player recruitment and third-party ownership.

"We are currently investigating these matters and will allow Manchester City every opportunity to explain the context and detail surrounding them."

Manager Pep Guardiola was asked on Friday whether he was concerned his achievements at City would be tainted by the allegations, but he told reporters: "No, absolutely not.

"The club made a statement, so I can't add more than that. The club are open, hopefully it can finish as soon as possible.

"I trust a lot what the club has done, because I know them and hopefully they can solve it as soon as possible."

German publication Der Spiegel reported in November that City's Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements in order to comply with FFP requirements.

City's statement on Thursday said accusations of financial irregularities were entirely false.

City host eighth-placed Watford on Saturday and Guardiola hailed their manager Javi Gracia, who looks set to lead them to their best-ever finish in the Premier League.

"It's incredible what he's done, one of the toughest games we had," Guardiola, who was voted February's Premier League manager of the month, said.

"In the last nine games, they have physicality, quality one-on-one, strong in the air, well organised... what he's done has been incredible."

The Premier League said on Friday it had opened an investigation into alleged Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches by champions Manchester City after UEFA had begun its own probe into the allegations.

The Premier League said on Friday it had opened an investigation into alleged Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches by champions Manchester City after UEFA had begun its own probe into the allegations. European soccer's governing body opened a formal investigation into the alleged FFP violations on Thursday, a move City welcomed in a bid to end speculation surrounding the club's sponsorship agreements. The FFP rules are intended to prevent clubs receiving unlimited amounts of money through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to the owners. "The Premier League has previously contacted Manchester City to request information regarding recent allegations and is in ongoing dialogue with the club," the Premier League said in a statement. "The league has detailed financial regulations and strong rules in the areas of Academy player recruitment and third-party ownership. "We are currently investigating these matters and will allow Manchester City every opportunity to explain the context and detail surrounding them." Manager Pep Guardiola was asked on Friday whether he was concerned his achievements at City would be tainted by the allegations, but he told reporters: "No, absolutely not. "The club made a statement, so I can't add more than that. The club are open, hopefully it can finish as soon as possible. "I trust a lot what the club has done, because I know them and hopefully they can solve it as soon as possible." German publication Der Spiegel reported in November that City's Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements in order to comply with FFP requirements. City's statement on Thursday said accusations of financial irregularities were entirely false. City host eighth-placed Watford on Saturday and Guardiola hailed their manager Javi Gracia, who looks set to lead them to their best-ever finish in the Premier League. "It's incredible what he's done, one of the toughest games we had," Guardiola, who was voted February's Premier League manager of the month, said. "In the last nine games, they have physicality, quality one-on-one, strong in the air, well organised... what he's done has been incredible."

Premier League investigates Manchester City over FFP allegations

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-bans-chelsea-for-next-two-transfer-windows-over-under-age-signings-198956">transfer ban imposed</a> after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18.

The London side, banned from the next two transfer windows and also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($600,000), had already said they would appeal against the decision taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee last month.

FIFA said in a statement that it could not give a schedule for the process, nor say whether the ban would be lifted pending the appeal hearing.

"Any decision on the sanction remaining in place during the appeal process is to be taken by the chairman of the FIFA Appeal Committee," it said.

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a transfer ban imposed after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18.

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a transfer ban imposed after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18. The London side, banned from the next two transfer windows and also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($600,000), had already said they would appeal against the decision taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee last month. FIFA said in a statement that it could not give a schedule for the process, nor say whether the ban would be lifted pending the appeal hearing. "Any decision on the sanction remaining in place during the appeal process is to be taken by the chairman of the FIFA Appeal Committee," it said.

FIFA confirm Chelsea appeal against transfer ban

Former Chelsea and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho gave Jurgen Klopp advice for Liverpool's title challenge in the Premier League.&nbsp;

He said, "The best way to prepare sometimes is to be honest."&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp's side faced Merseyside rivals Everton on Sunday but could only achieve a 0-0 draw, leaving them in second place with nine EPL matches remaining this season.&nbsp;

He added, "It is not to try to sell dreams. It is not to sell dreams. I think to be honest is to say we are not in our best moment."

"They (Liverpool) are not in their best moment," Mourinho added.&nbsp;

Currently, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City are currently top of the table with 71 points, one point ahead of Liverpool.&nbsp;

Although, Mourinho also praised Klopp saying he is a positive person.&nbsp;

"A guy [Jurgen Klopp] who has some contact with the players, some skin contact, very tactile."

"I think he's very supportive. I think he's going to make them believe what we also believe, it is open. It is not closed. City are not champions, it is open," he concluded.&nbsp;

Former Chelsea and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho gave Jurgen Klopp advice for Liverpool's title challenge in the Premier League. He said, "The best way to prepare sometimes is to be honest.

Former Chelsea and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho gave Jurgen Klopp advice for Liverpool's title challenge in the Premier League. He said, "The best way to prepare sometimes is to be honest." Jurgen Klopp's side faced Merseyside rivals Everton on Sunday but could only achieve a 0-0 draw, leaving them in second place with nine EPL matches remaining this season. He added, "It is not to try to sell dreams. It is not to sell dreams. I think to be honest is to say we are not in our best moment." "They (Liverpool) are not in their best moment," Mourinho added. Currently, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City are currently top of the table with 71 points, one point ahead of Liverpool. Although, Mourinho also praised Klopp saying he is a positive person. "A guy [Jurgen Klopp] who has some contact with the players, some skin contact, very tactile." "I think he's very supportive. I think he's going to make them believe what we also believe, it is open. It is not closed. City are not champions, it is open," he concluded.

Jose Mourinho gives Klopp advice for Liverpool's title challenge

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs backed acting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Monday to permanently take the Old Trafford top job but called their upcoming Champions League fixture against PSG a "big ask".&nbsp;

"I can't see anyone past Ole at the moment. The record they've had in the league has been phenomenal," Giggs said at a Champions League trophy tour event in Johannesburg.&nbsp;

"It's a tough league and to put together the run that he's done, it's impressive. The Liverpool game, OK it wasn't one of the best performances but they dug out a result."&nbsp;

United will face an uphill struggle on Wednesday when they confront an invigorated Paris side who lead them 2-0.&nbsp;

"With the injuries we've got, the position we're in, going to Paris is a tough place to go," Giggs told AFP.&nbsp;

"Away from home has been -- and they've been fine at Old Trafford -- but the really impressive performances have been away from home.

"The players they've got are suited to playing away from home.&nbsp;

"It's a tough ask, but not impossible."

Giggs, who along with Phil and Gary Neville, David Beckham and Paul Scholes was part of United's celebrated '92 vintage, now coaches Wales.

Winger Giggs stepped straight from the pitch into United's backroom staff as a player-coach assistant to David Moyes in 2013.

When Moyes was sacked, Giggs took over as caretaker boss until the end of the season, before moving fully into coaching at the club under Louis van Gaal.

'Football has a big responsibility'

Giggs described the Champions League title race "as the openest season I've seen for a long time".&nbsp;

"There's still four English clubs left. You've got the usual Barcelona, Real Madrid hanging about (and) Juventus, who I think a lot of people strongly fancied at the beginning," he said.

"If PSG go on to beat United I fancy PSG to do well. Atletico (Madrid) look strong and were in a good position against Juventus.

"I think it's really open -- it's tough to pick out one team."&nbsp;

Giggs, whose paternal grandfather is from Sierra Leone and identifies as bi-racial, said a recent run of racist incidents in top-flight European football was "not just a football issue".

Several prominent fixtures have been marred by the throwing of banana skins and anti-Semitic chanting in recent months.

"Until you address it socially, you're not going to get it out of football. But football does a lot of great work... I think football has a big responsibility," he said.

Giggs said he was "all for VAR" following the introduction of video assistant referee technology for the first time in the Champions League.

"There's gonna be some teething problems, I think what they've got to address is the speed. When you're a fan, not knowing what's going on at the stadium, you need to address that," he said.

"But you're not going to get every one right, a lot of it is (subjective)."

The Champions League had its first contentious VAR use on February 20 when Atletico Madrid took on Juventus, winning 2-0.

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs backed acting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Monday to permanently take the Old Trafford top job but called their upcoming Champions League fixture against PSG a "big ask".

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs backed acting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Monday to permanently take the Old Trafford top job but called their upcoming Champions League fixture against PSG a "big ask". "I can't see anyone past Ole at the moment. The record they've had in the league has been phenomenal," Giggs said at a Champions League trophy tour event in Johannesburg. "It's a tough league and to put together the run that he's done, it's impressive. The Liverpool game, OK it wasn't one of the best performances but they dug out a result." United will face an uphill struggle on Wednesday when they confront an invigorated Paris side who lead them 2-0. "With the injuries we've got, the position we're in, going to Paris is a tough place to go," Giggs told AFP. "Away from home has been -- and they've been fine at Old Trafford -- but the really impressive performances have been away from home. "The players they've got are suited to playing away from home. "It's a tough ask, but not impossible." Giggs, who along with Phil and Gary Neville, David Beckham and Paul Scholes was part of United's celebrated '92 vintage, now coaches Wales. Winger Giggs stepped straight from the pitch into United's backroom staff as a player-coach assistant to David Moyes in 2013. When Moyes was sacked, Giggs took over as caretaker boss until the end of the season, before moving fully into coaching at the club under Louis van Gaal. 'Football has a big responsibility' Giggs described the Champions League title race "as the openest season I've seen for a long time". "There's still four English clubs left. You've got the usual Barcelona, Real Madrid hanging about (and) Juventus, who I think a lot of people strongly fancied at the beginning," he said. "If PSG go on to beat United I fancy PSG to do well. Atletico (Madrid) look strong and were in a good position against Juventus. "I think it's really open -- it's tough to pick out one team." Giggs, whose paternal grandfather is from Sierra Leone and identifies as bi-racial, said a recent run of racist incidents in top-flight European football was "not just a football issue". Several prominent fixtures have been marred by the throwing of banana skins and anti-Semitic chanting in recent months. "Until you address it socially, you're not going to get it out of football. But football does a lot of great work... I think football has a big responsibility," he said. Giggs said he was "all for VAR" following the introduction of video assistant referee technology for the first time in the Champions League. "There's gonna be some teething problems, I think what they've got to address is the speed. When you're a fan, not knowing what's going on at the stadium, you need to address that," he said. "But you're not going to get every one right, a lot of it is (subjective)." The Champions League had its first contentious VAR use on February 20 when Atletico Madrid took on Juventus, winning 2-0.

Ryan Giggs backs Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to stay on at Manchester United

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City are playing "much better" than during last year's record-breaking campaign and his players should not be regarded as losers even if Liverpool pip them to the Premier League title.

City are favourites to retain their crown after Saturday's 1-0 win at Bournemouth and Sunday's goalless Merseyside derby left them a point ahead of Jurgen Klopp's Reds with nine matches remaining.

"In the way we play, we play much, much better (than last season)," Guardiola said. "Everybody knows exactly what we have to do, everybody helps each other. And when this happens, we can compete and if we lose, we lose, but no regrets.

"I know in our society just the first one has the credit and the second one is an absolute loser. But it is impossible to feel that about my players, it's impossible."

City smashed a host of records on the way to becoming champions in 2017/18, including amassing 100 points and scoring 106 goals.

Despite failing to replicate that level of dominance this term, they have overturned a seven-point deficit in recent months to wrestle top spot from Liverpool.

Victory at Bournemouth was their fifth in a row in the league and secured with 82 per cent possession and by preventing the hosts from registering a shot at goal.

Guardiola admits his team could easily have fallen out of title contention and feels their current position is even more remarkable because a League Cup success and progress to the FA Cup quarter-finals has resulted in a far busier fixture schedule than Liverpool.

"Of course we want to win the Premier League, I feel the players show me every single day they want to win it," he said.

"But we have played nine or 10 games more than Liverpool. It's a lot of minutes in our legs in all competitions.

"In spite of that, still we are there and that's why I'm happy. I would prefer it to be like last season's position -- to be 12 points in front -- but that is an exceptional situation."

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City are playing "much better" than during last year's record-breaking campaign and his players should not be regarded as losers even if Liverpool pip them to the Premier League title.

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City are playing "much better" than during last year's record-breaking campaign and his players should not be regarded as losers even if Liverpool pip them to the Premier League title. City are favourites to retain their crown after Saturday's 1-0 win at Bournemouth and Sunday's goalless Merseyside derby left them a point ahead of Jurgen Klopp's Reds with nine matches remaining. "In the way we play, we play much, much better (than last season)," Guardiola said. "Everybody knows exactly what we have to do, everybody helps each other. And when this happens, we can compete and if we lose, we lose, but no regrets. "I know in our society just the first one has the credit and the second one is an absolute loser. But it is impossible to feel that about my players, it's impossible." City smashed a host of records on the way to becoming champions in 2017/18, including amassing 100 points and scoring 106 goals. Despite failing to replicate that level of dominance this term, they have overturned a seven-point deficit in recent months to wrestle top spot from Liverpool. Victory at Bournemouth was their fifth in a row in the league and secured with 82 per cent possession and by preventing the hosts from registering a shot at goal. Guardiola admits his team could easily have fallen out of title contention and feels their current position is even more remarkable because a League Cup success and progress to the FA Cup quarter-finals has resulted in a far busier fixture schedule than Liverpool. "Of course we want to win the Premier League, I feel the players show me every single day they want to win it," he said. "But we have played nine or 10 games more than Liverpool. It's a lot of minutes in our legs in all competitions. "In spite of that, still we are there and that's why I'm happy. I would prefer it to be like last season's position -- to be 12 points in front -- but that is an exceptional situation."

Manchester City 'much better' than last year, says Pep Guardiola

Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne faces a spell on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in Saturday's 1-0 Premier League win at Bournemouth, manager Pep Guardiola said.

De Bruyne was substituted in the first half of the game with his replacement Riyad Mahrez scoring the winner to help the champions take a two-point lead over Liverpool, who are in action at Everton on Sunday.

Defender John Stones was also taken off but the England international's problem is not as serious.

"Kevin will be out for a while with a muscular problem - hamstring. John I think is more precaution. We didn't take a risk, we'll see tomorrow," Guardiola told the British media.

De Bruyne was one of the standout performers for City last season with 12 goals and 21 assists in all competitions but he has struggled with knee injuries in the current campaign, making 14 league appearances.

Guardiola suggested City's busy schedule, as they compete for trophies in four competitions, has not helped.

"I think we've played 25 games in 93 days, one every three days, so it's a physiological issue," the Spaniard added. "The body is not able to recover so sometimes the muscle says 'hello, that's enough'.

"We don't give players time to recover. We play a game, then after, when they are not recovered, we play another game. There is only a short amount of time and it is very demanding. But everybody's committed and we'll wait for Kevin to come back."

City have 71 points from 29 games in the league.

Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne faces a spell on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in Saturday's 1-0 Premier League win at Bournemouth, manager Pep Guardiola said.

Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne faces a spell on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury in Saturday's 1-0 Premier League win at Bournemouth, manager Pep Guardiola said. De Bruyne was substituted in the first half of the game with his replacement Riyad Mahrez scoring the winner to help the champions take a two-point lead over Liverpool, who are in action at Everton on Sunday. Defender John Stones was also taken off but the England international's problem is not as serious. "Kevin will be out for a while with a muscular problem - hamstring. John I think is more precaution. We didn't take a risk, we'll see tomorrow," Guardiola told the British media. De Bruyne was one of the standout performers for City last season with 12 goals and 21 assists in all competitions but he has struggled with knee injuries in the current campaign, making 14 league appearances. Guardiola suggested City's busy schedule, as they compete for trophies in four competitions, has not helped. "I think we've played 25 games in 93 days, one every three days, so it's a physiological issue," the Spaniard added. "The body is not able to recover so sometimes the muscle says 'hello, that's enough'. "We don't give players time to recover. We play a game, then after, when they are not recovered, we play another game. There is only a short amount of time and it is very demanding. But everybody's committed and we'll wait for Kevin to come back." City have 71 points from 29 games in the league.

Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne set for spell out with hamstring problem

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

A 2-0 loss to London rivals Chelsea and a 2-1 defeat by Burnley left third-placed Tottenham with 60 points from 28 matches, nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool and eight behind defending champions Manchester City.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's derby meeting with Arsenal, the Argentine conceded that a first ever Premier League title for Spurs was almost completely out of reach.

"It was difficult after the Burnley defeat and after Chelsea it's nearly impossible. We need to win every game and with two opponents above us they need to lose a lot," Pochettino told a news conference.

"Until you finish and mathematically it can be possible, of course you can dream, but to be honest it's not a possibility. The percentage is not too big."

Tottenham's chances of finishing in the top four are even hanging in the balance with Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea breathing down their necks.

However, Pochettino believes his side are still over-achieving.

"The feeling is a bit weird because everyone would've signed to be in the position we're in today. And you're asking me about Arsenal being only four points behind, and Manchester United and Chelsea behind them," he added.

"I think we are living in a different reality because with all of the circumstances Tottenham deserve big praise to be in the position we are in at this stage of the season.

"We are disappointed with the last two results but we must keep going and trust in our team."

Jan Vertonghen and Harry Winks are both nursing hip injuries and will be assessed before the game at Wembley Stadium while Dele Alli (hamstring) and Eric Dier (illness) will miss out.

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday. A 2-0 loss to London rivals Chelsea and a 2-1 defeat by Burnley left third-placed Tottenham with 60 points from 28 matches, nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool and eight behind defending champions Manchester City. Speaking ahead of Saturday's derby meeting with Arsenal, the Argentine conceded that a first ever Premier League title for Spurs was almost completely out of reach. "It was difficult after the Burnley defeat and after Chelsea it's nearly impossible. We need to win every game and with two opponents above us they need to lose a lot," Pochettino told a news conference. "Until you finish and mathematically it can be possible, of course you can dream, but to be honest it's not a possibility. The percentage is not too big." Tottenham's chances of finishing in the top four are even hanging in the balance with Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea breathing down their necks. However, Pochettino believes his side are still over-achieving. "The feeling is a bit weird because everyone would've signed to be in the position we're in today. And you're asking me about Arsenal being only four points behind, and Manchester United and Chelsea behind them," he added. "I think we are living in a different reality because with all of the circumstances Tottenham deserve big praise to be in the position we are in at this stage of the season. "We are disappointed with the last two results but we must keep going and trust in our team." Jan Vertonghen and Harry Winks are both nursing hip injuries and will be assessed before the game at Wembley Stadium while Dele Alli (hamstring) and Eric Dier (illness) will miss out.

'Nearly impossible' for Spurs to bounce back in title race: Mauricio Pochettino

Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku continued his rich vein of form by scoring two goals, including a late winner, to give his side a comeback 3-2 home win over Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday.

It took the Belgian's tally to four goals in two games after he netted a brace in Wednesday's 3-1 win at Crystal Palace, with playmaker Andreas Pereira grabbing the other for the hosts in a rip-roaring clash at Old Trafford.

The result lifted United back into fourth place on 58 points from 29 games, one ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal who were held to a 1-1 draw at Tottenham Hotspur in the early kickoff.

Sixth-placed Chelsea, who are on 53 points, have two games in hand and visit second bottom Fulham on Sunday.

Lukaku, who has endured dips in form during what has been a turbulent season at Old Trafford with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer taking over from Jose Mourinho as caretaker manager in December, was back to his lethal best.

"I was focused on the win and help my team mates," Lukaku told the BBC.

"We knew we had to win the game today and did it. Not our best game but we have to be happy.

"The manager gave me another chance today. We have to look one game at a time and are working hard on the training ground. We are ready for the challenge."

SPECTACULAR GOAL

Having weathered an early storm in which United missed three gilt-edged chances, Southampton took the lead in the 26th minute when Yan Valery scored his first goal for the club in spectacular fashion.

The 20-year old French wing-back, who joined Southampton from Ligue 1 side Rennes during the close season, unleashed a thunderbolt from 25 metres which beat United's stunned keeper David De Gea at the near post.

The home side equalised in the 53rd minute as the lively Pereira teed himself up for a long-range shot and curled it brilliantly past Saints keeper Angus Gunn.

Six minutes later, Pereira released Lukaku with fine footwork and the striker side-stepped a defender before he drilled a low shot with his weaker right foot into the bottom corner of the net.

James Ward-Prowse appeared to have snatched a point for the Saints with a stunning free kick from 25 metres before a frantic finish as Lukaku sent the home crowd into raptures.

A slick move ended with Lukaku turning his marker on the edge of the penalty area and drilling in another right-foot shot into the bottom corner in the 88th minute.

Gunn saved a poor stoppage-time penalty by Paul Pogba but the Frenchman's blunder did not dampen the mood at Old Trafford after Solskjaer stretched his impressive league start to 10 wins and two draws.

"It was one of those games, it had everything," said Solskjaer.

"My team did fantastic and the boys did great in the second half. The belief is there, they have gone so long without losing games (domestically) and are raring to go.

"They want to get on the ball and the confidence is high. They were class finishes from Romelu Lukaku and I am so pleased for Andreas Pereira."

Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku continued his rich vein of form by scoring two goals, including a late winner, to give his side a comeback 3-2 home win over Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday.

Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku continued his rich vein of form by scoring two goals, including a late winner, to give his side a comeback 3-2 home win over Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday. It took the Belgian's tally to four goals in two games after he netted a brace in Wednesday's 3-1 win at Crystal Palace, with playmaker Andreas Pereira grabbing the other for the hosts in a rip-roaring clash at Old Trafford. The result lifted United back into fourth place on 58 points from 29 games, one ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal who were held to a 1-1 draw at Tottenham Hotspur in the early kickoff. Sixth-placed Chelsea, who are on 53 points, have two games in hand and visit second bottom Fulham on Sunday. Lukaku, who has endured dips in form during what has been a turbulent season at Old Trafford with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer taking over from Jose Mourinho as caretaker manager in December, was back to his lethal best. "I was focused on the win and help my team mates," Lukaku told the BBC. "We knew we had to win the game today and did it. Not our best game but we have to be happy. "The manager gave me another chance today. We have to look one game at a time and are working hard on the training ground. We are ready for the challenge." SPECTACULAR GOAL Having weathered an early storm in which United missed three gilt-edged chances, Southampton took the lead in the 26th minute when Yan Valery scored his first goal for the club in spectacular fashion. The 20-year old French wing-back, who joined Southampton from Ligue 1 side Rennes during the close season, unleashed a thunderbolt from 25 metres which beat United's stunned keeper David De Gea at the near post. The home side equalised in the 53rd minute as the lively Pereira teed himself up for a long-range shot and curled it brilliantly past Saints keeper Angus Gunn. Six minutes later, Pereira released Lukaku with fine footwork and the striker side-stepped a defender before he drilled a low shot with his weaker right foot into the bottom corner of the net. James Ward-Prowse appeared to have snatched a point for the Saints with a stunning free kick from 25 metres before a frantic finish as Lukaku sent the home crowd into raptures. A slick move ended with Lukaku turning his marker on the edge of the penalty area and drilling in another right-foot shot into the bottom corner in the 88th minute. Gunn saved a poor stoppage-time penalty by Paul Pogba but the Frenchman's blunder did not dampen the mood at Old Trafford after Solskjaer stretched his impressive league start to 10 wins and two draws. "It was one of those games, it had everything," said Solskjaer. "My team did fantastic and the boys did great in the second half. The belief is there, they have gone so long without losing games (domestically) and are raring to go. "They want to get on the ball and the confidence is high. They were class finishes from Romelu Lukaku and I am so pleased for Andreas Pereira."

Romelu Lukaku shines as Manchester United rally to beat Southampton

Manchester City struck the latest blow in the Premier League title race as they moved above Liverpool to the top of the table after Riyad Mahrez secured a 1-0 victory at Bournemouth on Saturday.

City climbed two points clear of Liverpool, increasing the pressure on their title rivals before Jurgen Klopp's side face Everton in the Merseyside derby on Sunday.

After the single-goal victory against West Ham in midweek, City manager Guardiola could again be satisfied with the way his side stuck to their task to deliver the result they needed at Dean Court.

And the way Guardiola celebrated this vital three points with his players on the pitch after the final whistle spoke volumes.

Mahrez's contribution was also timely after the Algeria winger had been widely criticised for his display against West Ham, when he was withdrawn after just 55 minutes following his first league start since December 30.

There have already been suggestions the 28-year-old might move on just 12 months after his £60-million ($79.26 million) arrival from Leicester, but his second-half winner will undoubtedly lift his confidence ahead of the remaining weeks of the season.

City's victory came at the cost of an injury to Kevin De Bruyne, who was withdrawn after appearing to pick up a hamstring immediately before half-time.&nbsp;

John Stones also left the field early in the second half and Guardiola will hope both players are not sidelined for long, with Fernandinho and Aymeric Laporte already out of action.

Guardiola's men totally dominated the opening half, enjoying 83 percent possession, yet rarely troubled Bournemouth goalkeeper Artur Boruc and managed just one shot on target before the break.

City rewarded

That was due in part to the protection given to Boruc by his defenders, who held their concentration and stuck to their task impressively in the face of sustained City pressure.

Sergio Aguero was largely denied a clear sight of goal before the interval and it was Nicolas Otamendi who came closest when he met De Bruyne's corner with an acrobatic volley that flew narrowly over.

De Bruyne's departure added to City's first-half frustrations but Mahrez, the Belgian's replacement, quickly made an impact, delivering a corner that was diverted goalwards by Bournemouth's Chris Mepham, forcing Boruc to save from close-range.

City were never likely to change their approach significantly despite their unproductive first-half efforts.

And after starting the second half in exactly the same way as they saw out the first, they took full advantage when Bournemouth finally cracked and allowed Mahrez enough room to fire past Boruc in the 55th minute.

The build-up to the goal was like so many of City's previous moves, with the ball being worked quickly across the face of the home goal, where David Silva eventually helped it on to Mahrez.

Positioned beyond the far post, the Algerian pulled away from Charlie Daniels and had the time to steady himself before beating Boruc at the near post.

From that moment, the outcome of the game was effectively decided.

Bournemouth had offered few signs of being able to trouble City and, exhausted by their defensive efforts, they lacked the energy to mount a response.

City could have added to their tally but for a series of fine saves from Boruc.

Manchester City struck the latest blow in the Premier League title race as they moved above Liverpool to the top of the table after Riyad Mahrez secured a 1-0 victory at Bournemouth on Saturday.

Manchester City struck the latest blow in the Premier League title race as they moved above Liverpool to the top of the table after Riyad Mahrez secured a 1-0 victory at Bournemouth on Saturday. City climbed two points clear of Liverpool, increasing the pressure on their title rivals before Jurgen Klopp's side face Everton in the Merseyside derby on Sunday. After the single-goal victory against West Ham in midweek, City manager Guardiola could again be satisfied with the way his side stuck to their task to deliver the result they needed at Dean Court. And the way Guardiola celebrated this vital three points with his players on the pitch after the final whistle spoke volumes. Mahrez's contribution was also timely after the Algeria winger had been widely criticised for his display against West Ham, when he was withdrawn after just 55 minutes following his first league start since December 30. There have already been suggestions the 28-year-old might move on just 12 months after his £60-million ($79.26 million) arrival from Leicester, but his second-half winner will undoubtedly lift his confidence ahead of the remaining weeks of the season. City's victory came at the cost of an injury to Kevin De Bruyne, who was withdrawn after appearing to pick up a hamstring immediately before half-time. John Stones also left the field early in the second half and Guardiola will hope both players are not sidelined for long, with Fernandinho and Aymeric Laporte already out of action. Guardiola's men totally dominated the opening half, enjoying 83 percent possession, yet rarely troubled Bournemouth goalkeeper Artur Boruc and managed just one shot on target before the break. City rewarded That was due in part to the protection given to Boruc by his defenders, who held their concentration and stuck to their task impressively in the face of sustained City pressure. Sergio Aguero was largely denied a clear sight of goal before the interval and it was Nicolas Otamendi who came closest when he met De Bruyne's corner with an acrobatic volley that flew narrowly over. De Bruyne's departure added to City's first-half frustrations but Mahrez, the Belgian's replacement, quickly made an impact, delivering a corner that was diverted goalwards by Bournemouth's Chris Mepham, forcing Boruc to save from close-range. City were never likely to change their approach significantly despite their unproductive first-half efforts. And after starting the second half in exactly the same way as they saw out the first, they took full advantage when Bournemouth finally cracked and allowed Mahrez enough room to fire past Boruc in the 55th minute. The build-up to the goal was like so many of City's previous moves, with the ball being worked quickly across the face of the home goal, where David Silva eventually helped it on to Mahrez. Positioned beyond the far post, the Algerian pulled away from Charlie Daniels and had the time to steady himself before beating Boruc at the near post. From that moment, the outcome of the game was effectively decided. Bournemouth had offered few signs of being able to trouble City and, exhausted by their defensive efforts, they lacked the energy to mount a response. City could have added to their tally but for a series of fine saves from Boruc.

Riyad Mahrez lifts Manchester City back to Premier League summit

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby.

Arsenal led early on through Aaron Ramsey's well-taken goal, but Harry Kane's contentious penalty 16 minutes from time ensured third-placed Spurs maintain a four-point lead over the Gunners in the fight for top-four finish.

Manchester United can overtake Arsenal and move into fourth with victory over Southampton at Old Trafford later on Saturday.

Unai Emery's men will reflect on a missed opportunity to inflict further pain on a Spurs side that had lost to Burnley and Chelsea in the past week.

Emery made a number of big calls with his starting line-up with Aubameyang dropped to the bench alongside Mesut Ozil even though both scored in Wednesday's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth.

Alexandre Lacazette was instead handed the task of leading the line and the Frenchman spurned a big chance inside three minutes when he skewed his shot wide with just international teammate Lloris to beat.

Lacazette has edged ahead of Aubameyang in Emery's pecking order thanks to his superior link-up play and that showed in Arsenal's opener.

Davinson Sanchez misjudged his header from a long ball forward and with one touch Lacazette sent Ramsey in the clear.

The Welshman has already signed a pre-contract deal to join Juventus next season, but at the stadium where he scored the winner in two FA Cup finals for the Gunners, he left the Arsenal support with another memory to cherish by coolly rounding Lloris before slotting into the empty net.

Spurs started like a side short on confidence, but they slowly wrestled control back and only the offside flag and Bernd Leno in the Arsenal goal denied them an equaliser.

Kane sent a thumping header into the top corner from Christian Eriksen's free-kick but was ruled offside.

The same two players combined a minute before the break as this time Kane's scooped pass picked out the Dane who shot too close to the advancing Leno.

However, the German goalkeeper then made a remarkable stop to turn Moussa Sissoko's follow-up effort behind.

Lacazette passed up another big chance at the start of the second period when he again failed to hit the target at the end of a well-worked Arsenal move before being hooked for Aubameyang just before the hour mark.

The former Lyon striker's reaction to being replaced suggests Emery still has a tough task to keep both his star forwards happy.

Emery also has work to do at the other end of the field as Arsenal remain without a clean sheet away from home in the Premier League this season, although there was plenty of controversy about Spurs' equaliser.

Shkodran Mustafi was guilty of a push on Kane's back, but the England captain should have been flagged offside before referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot.

Kane dusted himself down and slotted home his 22nd goal of the season.

Arsenal had a huge chance to land a significant psychological blow to Spurs' season and secure their first away win against top six opposition in the Premier League since January 2015 when Aubameyang went down under Sanchez's challenge late on.

However, Aubameyang's poor penalty was saved by Lloris and Jan Vertonghen produced a stunning last-ditch challenge to deny the Gabon striker in the scramble that followed.

Arsenal played the final seconds with 10 men when Lucas Torreira was sent-off for a late lunge on Danny Rose, but for the first time this season Spurs drew to remain in the driving seat for Champions League football next season.

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby.

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby. Arsenal led early on through Aaron Ramsey's well-taken goal, but Harry Kane's contentious penalty 16 minutes from time ensured third-placed Spurs maintain a four-point lead over the Gunners in the fight for top-four finish. Manchester United can overtake Arsenal and move into fourth with victory over Southampton at Old Trafford later on Saturday. Unai Emery's men will reflect on a missed opportunity to inflict further pain on a Spurs side that had lost to Burnley and Chelsea in the past week. Emery made a number of big calls with his starting line-up with Aubameyang dropped to the bench alongside Mesut Ozil even though both scored in Wednesday's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth. Alexandre Lacazette was instead handed the task of leading the line and the Frenchman spurned a big chance inside three minutes when he skewed his shot wide with just international teammate Lloris to beat. Lacazette has edged ahead of Aubameyang in Emery's pecking order thanks to his superior link-up play and that showed in Arsenal's opener. Davinson Sanchez misjudged his header from a long ball forward and with one touch Lacazette sent Ramsey in the clear. The Welshman has already signed a pre-contract deal to join Juventus next season, but at the stadium where he scored the winner in two FA Cup finals for the Gunners, he left the Arsenal support with another memory to cherish by coolly rounding Lloris before slotting into the empty net. Spurs started like a side short on confidence, but they slowly wrestled control back and only the offside flag and Bernd Leno in the Arsenal goal denied them an equaliser. Kane sent a thumping header into the top corner from Christian Eriksen's free-kick but was ruled offside. The same two players combined a minute before the break as this time Kane's scooped pass picked out the Dane who shot too close to the advancing Leno. However, the German goalkeeper then made a remarkable stop to turn Moussa Sissoko's follow-up effort behind. Lacazette passed up another big chance at the start of the second period when he again failed to hit the target at the end of a well-worked Arsenal move before being hooked for Aubameyang just before the hour mark. The former Lyon striker's reaction to being replaced suggests Emery still has a tough task to keep both his star forwards happy. Emery also has work to do at the other end of the field as Arsenal remain without a clean sheet away from home in the Premier League this season, although there was plenty of controversy about Spurs' equaliser. Shkodran Mustafi was guilty of a push on Kane's back, but the England captain should have been flagged offside before referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot. Kane dusted himself down and slotted home his 22nd goal of the season. Arsenal had a huge chance to land a significant psychological blow to Spurs' season and secure their first away win against top six opposition in the Premier League since January 2015 when Aubameyang went down under Sanchez's challenge late on. However, Aubameyang's poor penalty was saved by Lloris and Jan Vertonghen produced a stunning last-ditch challenge to deny the Gabon striker in the scramble that followed. Arsenal played the final seconds with 10 men when Lucas Torreira was sent-off for a late lunge on Danny Rose, but for the first time this season Spurs drew to remain in the driving seat for Champions League football next season.

Hugo Lloris salvages Spurs a point against Arsenal

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga remains the club's first choice but manager Maurizio Sarri is still uncertain if the Spaniard will be recalled to the starting team for Sunday's Premier League trip to Fulham.

Arrizabalaga was fined by the club for his refusal to be substituted by Sarri near the end of extra time in Sunday's League Cup final defeat by Manchester City and he was dropped for Wednesday's 2-0 league win over Tottenham Hotspur.

"I'm sure in one of the two next matches he will be on the pitch," Sarri told a news conference, suggesting Willy Caballero could continue in goal after making his first league appearance of the season against Tottenham.

"Kepa's the first choice, of course, he is very young, he's improving, we know very well that he can become one of the best goalkeepers in Europe," Sarri added.

"But in this moment we know that Willy is doing very well. He (Arrizabalaga) is very important in our group and dressing room, so we need to consider him."

Sarri said Chelsea's players had to take the opportunity to come closer together after the incident at Wembley last week.

"After a difficult situation, a group is not the same. So there is the opportunity to be better, and you have to take it," the Italian added.

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga remains the club's first choice but manager Maurizio Sarri is still uncertain if the Spaniard will be recalled to the starting team for Sunday's Premier League trip to Fulham.

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga remains the club's first choice but manager Maurizio Sarri is still uncertain if the Spaniard will be recalled to the starting team for Sunday's Premier League trip to Fulham. Arrizabalaga was fined by the club for his refusal to be substituted by Sarri near the end of extra time in Sunday's League Cup final defeat by Manchester City and he was dropped for Wednesday's 2-0 league win over Tottenham Hotspur. "I'm sure in one of the two next matches he will be on the pitch," Sarri told a news conference, suggesting Willy Caballero could continue in goal after making his first league appearance of the season against Tottenham. "Kepa's the first choice, of course, he is very young, he's improving, we know very well that he can become one of the best goalkeepers in Europe," Sarri added. "But in this moment we know that Willy is doing very well. He (Arrizabalaga) is very important in our group and dressing room, so we need to consider him." Sarri said Chelsea's players had to take the opportunity to come closer together after the incident at Wembley last week. "After a difficult situation, a group is not the same. So there is the opportunity to be better, and you have to take it," the Italian added.

Maurizio Sarri not sure about Kepa Arrizabalaga's return to Chelsea team

Relegation-threatened Fulham sacked Claudio Ranieri as manager on Thursday and appointed Scott Parker as his caretaker replacement.

Ranieri, who guided Leicester City to an extraordinary 2016 Premier League title, was appointed in November after the dismissal of Slavisa Jokanovic but failed to work another miracle and lasted only 16 league games, winning three.

"I am obviously disappointed with the recent results and that we could not build on the good start we made following my appointment," said the 67-year-old.

"I would like to thank the Club, the players and the fans for the support they have given me during my time at the Club."

The Italian's departure came as no surprise, with Fulham 19th in the table and 10 points adrift of 17th placed Southampton in the final safety spot with only 10 games remaining.

Ranieri had recognised his future at the West London side was uncertain after Wednesday's stinging 2-0 defeat at Southampton.

"Following our discussion this afternoon, Claudio Ranieri agreed to my decision that a change was in the best interest of everyone," chairman Shahid Khan said in a statement on the Fulham website.

Khan said the Italian had been "a perfect gentleman, as always," but it had not worked out and he left Craven Cottage as a friend.

"Claudio’s tenure at Fulham didn’t produce the outcome we anticipated and needed when I appointed him as manager in November, but be assured he is not solely to blame for the position we are in today," added the chairman.

Khan acknowledged Ranieri had inherited a difficult situation, taking over with Fulham bottom of the league after just one win.

"He provided an immediate boost by leading our club to nine points in his first eight matches as manager. Though we were unable to maintain that pace thereafter, I am grateful for his effort."

Parker's brief was to "stabilise, grow and rediscover ourselves as a football club," said Khan.

"If Scott can answer that challenge, and our players respond to the opportunity, perhaps victories will follow in the months ahead.

"What’s most important at this moment, however, is to regroup in a smart and deliberate manner that will serve our long-term vision for sustainable success."

Former England midfielder Parker's first game in charge will be against local rivals Chelsea, another of his and Ranieri's former clubs, on Sunday.

Relegation-threatened Fulham sacked Claudio Ranieri as manager on Thursday and appointed Scott Parker as his caretaker replacement. Ranieri, who guided Leicester City to an extraordinary 2016 Premier League title, was appointed in November after the dismissal of Slavisa Jokanovic but failed to work another miracle and lasted only 16 league games, winning three.

Relegation-threatened Fulham sacked Claudio Ranieri as manager on Thursday and appointed Scott Parker as his caretaker replacement. Ranieri, who guided Leicester City to an extraordinary 2016 Premier League title, was appointed in November after the dismissal of Slavisa Jokanovic but failed to work another miracle and lasted only 16 league games, winning three. "I am obviously disappointed with the recent results and that we could not build on the good start we made following my appointment," said the 67-year-old. "I would like to thank the Club, the players and the fans for the support they have given me during my time at the Club." The Italian's departure came as no surprise, with Fulham 19th in the table and 10 points adrift of 17th placed Southampton in the final safety spot with only 10 games remaining. Ranieri had recognised his future at the West London side was uncertain after Wednesday's stinging 2-0 defeat at Southampton. "Following our discussion this afternoon, Claudio Ranieri agreed to my decision that a change was in the best interest of everyone," chairman Shahid Khan said in a statement on the Fulham website. Khan said the Italian had been "a perfect gentleman, as always," but it had not worked out and he left Craven Cottage as a friend. "Claudio’s tenure at Fulham didn’t produce the outcome we anticipated and needed when I appointed him as manager in November, but be assured he is not solely to blame for the position we are in today," added the chairman. Khan acknowledged Ranieri had inherited a difficult situation, taking over with Fulham bottom of the league after just one win. "He provided an immediate boost by leading our club to nine points in his first eight matches as manager. Though we were unable to maintain that pace thereafter, I am grateful for his effort." Parker's brief was to "stabilise, grow and rediscover ourselves as a football club," said Khan. "If Scott can answer that challenge, and our players respond to the opportunity, perhaps victories will follow in the months ahead. "What’s most important at this moment, however, is to regroup in a smart and deliberate manner that will serve our long-term vision for sustainable success." Former England midfielder Parker's first game in charge will be against local rivals Chelsea, another of his and Ranieri's former clubs, on Sunday.

Scott Parker takes over at Fulham after Claudio Ranieri shown the door

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says the next club he joins must have a strong sense of "structural empathy" to help him cope with the demands of modern football, in which player power heavily influences the game.

The Portuguese coach, who was sacked by United after a 2-1/2 year spell last December, intends to return to the game before the start of next season but said he would only join a club that did not have "internal conflict".

Mourinho's third season at United was dominated by media reports of a rift with record signing Paul Pogba, before the owners pulled the plug on his tenure with the team sitting sixth in the Premier League.

"You now have a generation of players who are not just players but the whole package," the 56-year-old told the Telegraph.

"You have the player, the family, the agent, the entourage, the director of communication ... When you have a player you have all these distractions.

"And if there is no empathy in the structure of the club you get into so many contradictions that it is really, really difficult to work."

Since leading Porto to Champions League triumph in 2004, Mourinho has managed Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and United, winning a total of 20 major trophies.

He said his next destination could be a longer-term project.

"If it is a club without ambition I wouldn't go," he added.

"That is my second item (of requirement). My first item is structural empathy. I want to work with people that I love. People I want to work with, that I am happy to work with, with whom I share the same ideas."

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says the next club he joins must have a strong sense of "structural empathy" to help him cope with the demands of modern football, in which player power heavily influences the game.

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says the next club he joins must have a strong sense of "structural empathy" to help him cope with the demands of modern football, in which player power heavily influences the game. The Portuguese coach, who was sacked by United after a 2-1/2 year spell last December, intends to return to the game before the start of next season but said he would only join a club that did not have "internal conflict". Mourinho's third season at United was dominated by media reports of a rift with record signing Paul Pogba, before the owners pulled the plug on his tenure with the team sitting sixth in the Premier League. "You now have a generation of players who are not just players but the whole package," the 56-year-old told the Telegraph. "You have the player, the family, the agent, the entourage, the director of communication ... When you have a player you have all these distractions. "And if there is no empathy in the structure of the club you get into so many contradictions that it is really, really difficult to work." Since leading Porto to Champions League triumph in 2004, Mourinho has managed Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and United, winning a total of 20 major trophies. He said his next destination could be a longer-term project. "If it is a club without ambition I wouldn't go," he added. "That is my second item (of requirement). My first item is structural empathy. I want to work with people that I love. People I want to work with, that I am happy to work with, with whom I share the same ideas."

Jose Mourinho wants next club to have empathy as well as ambition

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says that Paul Pogba is channelling his extrovert personality in the right way after toning down his off-field behaviour, ahead of his side's huge match with title-chasing Liverpool on Sunday.

Pogba has rediscovered his form since Solskjaer took charge at as United's interim manager in December following the sacking of Jose Mourinho.

Having endured a difficult first half the season, the France star has scored nine goals and provided six assists in his last 12 club appearances as United have shot into fourth with Premier League eight wins in nine and reached the FA Cup quarter-finals after convincingly beating Chelsea earlier this month.

"He is a leader in training, he is a leader in the dressing room," Solskjaer said ahead of Sunday's clash at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

"Players are allowed to be themselves. He spends a lot of energy being a leader on and off the pitch."

The midfielder has become as well-known for his colourful hairstyles and his social media posts as for his football skills during his time at Old Trafford.

"If you want the nice car, different haircut, it is not a problem. I can't do anything about my grey hair, but it is not a problem that you have whatever haircut you want," said Solskjaer.

"It has never been a problem with Paul. I remember when he was 16, he wanted to feel good. If you feel good, you will play well."

Pogba's social media use was a problem for Mourinho, who was reported to be unhappy that the midfielder broke United rules by filming an Instagram video in the training ground changing rooms to wish Jesse Lingard a happy birthday in December.

Distractions

That was shortly before the 3-1 defeat at Liverpool that cost the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager his job.

Solskjaer believes it is important that players remain focused on their job, and do not have too many off-field distractions –- making what seemed to be a passing reference to the appearance of Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge at the Brit Awards at London's O2 Arena on Wednesday.

"Paul has always been a larger-than-life character. But you don't want to give anyone an excuse really, so of course, you don't go to the Brit awards this week," he said.

"We know leading up to the other game against Liverpool there were stories about players not being focused.

"It is not about that. We know they are focused, we know they are doing their best but he does help himself by toning it down a bit ... Knowing him, he wants to win, he wants to be the best."

Solskjaer is also keen to ensure victory over Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday, not least to silence the many fans in his native Norway who support Jurgen Klopp's team, who are separated from leaders Manchester City by goal difference.

"There are loads of Liverpool fans back home and it has been like: every year is going to be their year. Then it gets to October and it's: 'Ok, next year'," he said.

"But now they are in the race so for them it is going to be an exciting finish to the league now they are in it.

"That is none of our concern. We just have to concentrate on ourselves.

"We are not thinking about doing anyone any favours, but I would think the whole of Manchester will be supporting us on Sunday!"

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says that Paul Pogba is channelling his extrovert personality in the right way after toning down his off-field behaviour, ahead of his side's huge match with title-chasing Liverpool on Sunday.

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says that Paul Pogba is channelling his extrovert personality in the right way after toning down his off-field behaviour, ahead of his side's huge match with title-chasing Liverpool on Sunday. Pogba has rediscovered his form since Solskjaer took charge at as United's interim manager in December following the sacking of Jose Mourinho. Having endured a difficult first half the season, the France star has scored nine goals and provided six assists in his last 12 club appearances as United have shot into fourth with Premier League eight wins in nine and reached the FA Cup quarter-finals after convincingly beating Chelsea earlier this month. "He is a leader in training, he is a leader in the dressing room," Solskjaer said ahead of Sunday's clash at Old Trafford. "Players are allowed to be themselves. He spends a lot of energy being a leader on and off the pitch." The midfielder has become as well-known for his colourful hairstyles and his social media posts as for his football skills during his time at Old Trafford. "If you want the nice car, different haircut, it is not a problem. I can't do anything about my grey hair, but it is not a problem that you have whatever haircut you want," said Solskjaer. "It has never been a problem with Paul. I remember when he was 16, he wanted to feel good. If you feel good, you will play well." Pogba's social media use was a problem for Mourinho, who was reported to be unhappy that the midfielder broke United rules by filming an Instagram video in the training ground changing rooms to wish Jesse Lingard a happy birthday in December. Distractions That was shortly before the 3-1 defeat at Liverpool that cost the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager his job. Solskjaer believes it is important that players remain focused on their job, and do not have too many off-field distractions –- making what seemed to be a passing reference to the appearance of Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge at the Brit Awards at London's O2 Arena on Wednesday. "Paul has always been a larger-than-life character. But you don't want to give anyone an excuse really, so of course, you don't go to the Brit awards this week," he said. "We know leading up to the other game against Liverpool there were stories about players not being focused. "It is not about that. We know they are focused, we know they are doing their best but he does help himself by toning it down a bit ... Knowing him, he wants to win, he wants to be the best." Solskjaer is also keen to ensure victory over Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday, not least to silence the many fans in his native Norway who support Jurgen Klopp's team, who are separated from leaders Manchester City by goal difference. "There are loads of Liverpool fans back home and it has been like: every year is going to be their year. Then it gets to October and it's: 'Ok, next year'," he said. "But now they are in the race so for them it is going to be an exciting finish to the league now they are in it. "That is none of our concern. We just have to concentrate on ourselves. "We are not thinking about doing anyone any favours, but I would think the whole of Manchester will be supporting us on Sunday!"

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer impressed by in-form Pogba's new-found maturity

Harry Kane scored on his return from injury for Tottenham but his side fell to a surprise 2-1 defeat at Burnley, which severely dented their Premier League title hopes on Saturday.

Ashley Barnes' 83rd minute winner for Burnley, after Kane had cancelled out Chris Woods' opener, extended their unbeaten run to eight games and moved them up to 13th place in the league with one of their best results since returning to the top flight.

But for third-placed Spurs, who trail leaders Manchester City and Liverpool by five points, this may prove to be a loss that leaves them with too much ground to make up.

At an unseasonably sun-splashed Turf Moor, Kane returned to the Spurs line-up for the first time since suffering an ankle injury against Manchester United on Jan. 13 with England manager Gareth Southgate watching from the stands.

But he will have left East Lancashire also impressed by Burnley central defensive pair of James Tarkowski and Ben Mee who kept the England captain and the Spurs attack well under control.

Spurs made a slow start to the lunchtime kick-off game and it was not until the 16th minute that they threatened when Kane worked some space for himself, on the edge of the penalty area, but his left-foot effort was comfortably wide of Tom Heaton’s post.

Burnley were harrying and closing down well in midfield, with Ashley Westwood and Jack Cork particularly busy, and Spurs struggled to find their rhythm or any real openings for their captain.

Barnes went close to an opener in the 33rd, Jeff Hendrick pulling the ball back and the Burnley striker’s first time effort flashed just over the bar. The effort would surely have impressed the watching Austrian national team coach Franco Foda, given Barnes’ eligibility for the country through his paternal grandmother.

Burnley’s disciplined defending ensured the teams went in level at the break but four minutes after the resumption, Kane fired another warning, a dangerously dipping and swerving shot from 30 metres out bringing out the best in Heaton.

Burnley took the lead in the 57th minute with a glancing header by Wood, who rose ahead of Juan Foyth to angle in a Dwight McNeil corner.

Spurs believed the corner should not have been awarded but they responded positively.

Eight minutes later Kane, who had looked a little rusty, ran on to a quick throw-in from Danny Rose, got behind Mee and slipped the ball past Heaton.

Burnley were angered that Rose had taken the throw-in several metres ahead of the spot were the ball went out of play but their protests were in vain.

The Clarets, who have been in or around the relegation zone for most of the season, grabbed the winner though when substitute Johann Berg Gudmundsson found Barnes at the back post and the striker fired in his fourth goal in as many games.

Members of the Spurs coaching staff furiously protested against the referee after the final whistle.&nbsp;

Harry Kane scored on his return from injury for Tottenham but his side fell to a surprise 2-1 defeat at Burnley, which severely dented their Premier League title hopes on Saturday.

Harry Kane scored on his return from injury for Tottenham but his side fell to a surprise 2-1 defeat at Burnley, which severely dented their Premier League title hopes on Saturday. Ashley Barnes' 83rd minute winner for Burnley, after Kane had cancelled out Chris Woods' opener, extended their unbeaten run to eight games and moved them up to 13th place in the league with one of their best results since returning to the top flight. But for third-placed Spurs, who trail leaders Manchester City and Liverpool by five points, this may prove to be a loss that leaves them with too much ground to make up. At an unseasonably sun-splashed Turf Moor, Kane returned to the Spurs line-up for the first time since suffering an ankle injury against Manchester United on Jan. 13 with England manager Gareth Southgate watching from the stands. But he will have left East Lancashire also impressed by Burnley central defensive pair of James Tarkowski and Ben Mee who kept the England captain and the Spurs attack well under control. Spurs made a slow start to the lunchtime kick-off game and it was not until the 16th minute that they threatened when Kane worked some space for himself, on the edge of the penalty area, but his left-foot effort was comfortably wide of Tom Heaton’s post. Burnley were harrying and closing down well in midfield, with Ashley Westwood and Jack Cork particularly busy, and Spurs struggled to find their rhythm or any real openings for their captain. Barnes went close to an opener in the 33rd, Jeff Hendrick pulling the ball back and the Burnley striker’s first time effort flashed just over the bar. The effort would surely have impressed the watching Austrian national team coach Franco Foda, given Barnes’ eligibility for the country through his paternal grandmother. Burnley’s disciplined defending ensured the teams went in level at the break but four minutes after the resumption, Kane fired another warning, a dangerously dipping and swerving shot from 30 metres out bringing out the best in Heaton. Burnley took the lead in the 57th minute with a glancing header by Wood, who rose ahead of Juan Foyth to angle in a Dwight McNeil corner. Spurs believed the corner should not have been awarded but they responded positively. Eight minutes later Kane, who had looked a little rusty, ran on to a quick throw-in from Danny Rose, got behind Mee and slipped the ball past Heaton. Burnley were angered that Rose had taken the throw-in several metres ahead of the spot were the ball went out of play but their protests were in vain. The Clarets, who have been in or around the relegation zone for most of the season, grabbed the winner though when substitute Johann Berg Gudmundsson found Barnes at the back post and the striker fired in his fourth goal in as many games. Members of the Spurs coaching staff furiously protested against the referee after the final whistle.

Harry Kane scores on return but Spurs fall at Burnley

Crystal Palace piled further pressure on Leicester City manager Claude Puel on Saturday with a comprehensive 4-1 Premier League win over his team, who have now gone seven games without a victory.

Two goals from Wilfried Zaha, another from Michy Batshuayi and a penalty from Luka Milivojevic inflicted a fourth consecutive league defeat on Leicester -- their worst run since 2000.

But it was the manner of the performance that will have most alarmed Puel, with two goals conceded late on to set sections of the crowd booing.

By contrast, 71-year-old Roy Hodgson was in a&nbsp;delighted mood as he officially became the oldest ever Premier League manager.

Leicester conceded the first goal for the 19th time this season when Batshuayi was hit by James McArthur's shot, the ball ricocheting past Kasper Schmeichel at great pace. It was the Belgian's first Premier League goal in 19 months.

Although Evans responded with his first goal for Leicester, after 64 minutes, Palace quickly restored their lead with a finish from close-in by Zaha, who was returning from suspension.

Milivojevic put the game beyond doubt with a spot kick after 81 minutes after Evans, making an eventful 250th appearance in the Premier League, fouled Jeffrey Schlupp.

Zaha added his second goal, and Palace's fourth, late on after mistakes by Harry Maguire and Schmeichel.

Interviewed on television immediately after the game, Zaha appeared surprised when James Tomkins was awarded the man-of-the-match award. Asked to present it, Zaha joked: "Oh wow, really? Okay."

The win put Palace six points clear of the relegation zone as they moved one place and two points behind 12th-placed Leicester.

Crystal Palace piled further pressure on Leicester City manager Claude Puel on Saturday with a comprehensive 4-1 Premier League win over his team, who have now gone seven games without a victory.

Crystal Palace piled further pressure on Leicester City manager Claude Puel on Saturday with a comprehensive 4-1 Premier League win over his team, who have now gone seven games without a victory. Two goals from Wilfried Zaha, another from Michy Batshuayi and a penalty from Luka Milivojevic inflicted a fourth consecutive league defeat on Leicester -- their worst run since 2000. But it was the manner of the performance that will have most alarmed Puel, with two goals conceded late on to set sections of the crowd booing. By contrast, 71-year-old Roy Hodgson was in a delighted mood as he officially became the oldest ever Premier League manager. Leicester conceded the first goal for the 19th time this season when Batshuayi was hit by James McArthur's shot, the ball ricocheting past Kasper Schmeichel at great pace. It was the Belgian's first Premier League goal in 19 months. Although Evans responded with his first goal for Leicester, after 64 minutes, Palace quickly restored their lead with a finish from close-in by Zaha, who was returning from suspension. Milivojevic put the game beyond doubt with a spot kick after 81 minutes after Evans, making an eventful 250th appearance in the Premier League, fouled Jeffrey Schlupp. Zaha added his second goal, and Palace's fourth, late on after mistakes by Harry Maguire and Schmeichel. Interviewed on television immediately after the game, Zaha appeared surprised when James Tomkins was awarded the man-of-the-match award. Asked to present it, Zaha joked: "Oh wow, really? Okay." The win put Palace six points clear of the relegation zone as they moved one place and two points behind 12th-placed Leicester.

More pressure on coach Claude Puel as Crystal Palace rout Leicester

Liverpool boss <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Juergen+Klopp">Juergen Klopp</a> has hailed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's ability to unlock the potential of his players and believes the Manchester United interim boss has the qualities to manage top teams having made an instant impact at Old Trafford.

United have won eight of nine Premier League matches under Solskjaer to force their way back into the top four, a prospect that looked bleak when former boss Jose Mourinho was sacked in December with the team at sixth.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's league meeting, Klopp said he was impressed by United's form since a 3-1 defeat by Liverpool which led to the Portuguese manager's dismissal.

"It is all about bringing out the potential of the team, improving the quality and that's what he (Solskjaer) obviously did and that makes him a manager for a top club," Klopp told Sky Sports.

"I am a manager myself and I know that we are not magicians. It is not like we can come in and say 'you are not good, but I can make you really good'.

"But we are blessed with really good players around us and Solskjaer is doing a brilliant job."

United, who have 51 points from 26 games, have adopted a more attacking approach to games under Solskjaer but Klopp said they could switch styles on Sunday.

"We will see how they play against us. I think they are able to play different ways," the German added.

"They are much more front-footed for sure now, that's clear, but their counter attacks are a massive threat, especially when Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard get fit again.

"It is not only one thing they are good at. There are a few ways where you can at least give them a few questions they don't have easy answers for, but it will be a very physical game and very demanding for both teams."

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp has hailed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's ability to unlock the potential of his players and believes the Manchester United interim boss has the qualities to manage top teams having made an instant impact at Old Trafford.

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp has hailed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's ability to unlock the potential of his players and believes the Manchester United interim boss has the qualities to manage top teams having made an instant impact at Old Trafford. United have won eight of nine Premier League matches under Solskjaer to force their way back into the top four, a prospect that looked bleak when former boss Jose Mourinho was sacked in December with the team at sixth. Speaking ahead of Sunday's league meeting, Klopp said he was impressed by United's form since a 3-1 defeat by Liverpool which led to the Portuguese manager's dismissal. "It is all about bringing out the potential of the team, improving the quality and that's what he (Solskjaer) obviously did and that makes him a manager for a top club," Klopp told Sky Sports. "I am a manager myself and I know that we are not magicians. It is not like we can come in and say 'you are not good, but I can make you really good'. "But we are blessed with really good players around us and Solskjaer is doing a brilliant job." United, who have 51 points from 26 games, have adopted a more attacking approach to games under Solskjaer but Klopp said they could switch styles on Sunday. "We will see how they play against us. I think they are able to play different ways," the German added. "They are much more front-footed for sure now, that's clear, but their counter attacks are a massive threat, especially when Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard get fit again. "It is not only one thing they are good at. There are a few ways where you can at least give them a few questions they don't have easy answers for, but it will be a very physical game and very demanding for both teams."

Juergen Klopp backs Manchester United interim boss Solskjaer to manage top club

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Manchester+United">Manchester United</a>'s strong domestic form in recent weeks has ensured they are no longer 'underdogs' when they take on arch-rivals Liverpool in Sunday's Premier League clash, caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.&nbsp;

Liverpool handed United a 3-1 defeat in their last meeting at Anfield in December which led to former manager Jose Mourinho's dismissal and Solskjaer's appointment.&nbsp;

Solskjaer has since turned United's bleak season around with 11 wins in last 13 games in all competitions, losing just once to Paris St Germain in their Champions League last-16 tie.&nbsp;

"Suddenly we are not underdogs any more, suddenly people praise us, they think now is the time to play them," Solskjaer told reporters.&nbsp;

"We have to perform better than we did against PSG. We have got to learn from that experience. It's a big game, a big team.&nbsp;

"It's not about emotions. I understand that emotion can be brought into it, but we have to stay focused and controlled, but with some fight in us as well."&nbsp;

Solskjaer said the injured pair of Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard would be assessed over the next two days before he takes a call on their participation, with the Norwegian hopeful Martial would make the squad.&nbsp;

"I hope Jesse will be OK, I hope and think Anthony will be OK," Solskjaer added. "But we have two more days, they have to get through these two sessions. They have not been part of it yet but they have been doing some recovery work.&nbsp;

"Anthony's was a different muscle so we think that he might be ready and hope that Jesse will."&nbsp;

Manchester United's strong domestic form in recent weeks has ensured they are no longer 'underdogs' when they take on arch-rivals Liverpool in Sunday's Premier League clash, caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

Manchester United's strong domestic form in recent weeks has ensured they are no longer 'underdogs' when they take on arch-rivals Liverpool in Sunday's Premier League clash, caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said. Liverpool handed United a 3-1 defeat in their last meeting at Anfield in December which led to former manager Jose Mourinho's dismissal and Solskjaer's appointment. Solskjaer has since turned United's bleak season around with 11 wins in last 13 games in all competitions, losing just once to Paris St Germain in their Champions League last-16 tie. "Suddenly we are not underdogs any more, suddenly people praise us, they think now is the time to play them," Solskjaer told reporters. "We have to perform better than we did against PSG. We have got to learn from that experience. It's a big game, a big team. "It's not about emotions. I understand that emotion can be brought into it, but we have to stay focused and controlled, but with some fight in us as well." Solskjaer said the injured pair of Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard would be assessed over the next two days before he takes a call on their participation, with the Norwegian hopeful Martial would make the squad. "I hope Jesse will be OK, I hope and think Anthony will be OK," Solskjaer added. "But we have two more days, they have to get through these two sessions. They have not been part of it yet but they have been doing some recovery work. "Anthony's was a different muscle so we think that he might be ready and hope that Jesse will."

Man United no longer 'underdogs' against Liverpool: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Pressure is part and parcel of playing for a team with title ambitions and Liverpool must embrace it as they pursue a first league crown in almost 30 years, forward <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Mohamed+Salah">Mohamed Salah</a> has said.&nbsp;

Liverpool trail leaders Manchester City on goal difference though they have played a game less than the reigning champions. They will reclaim top spot if they avoid defeat at Manchester United on Sunday.&nbsp;

"I said in November that there is pressure and it will be there until the end of the season, because when you play for the Premier League you have to accept that there is pressure," Salah told Sky Sports.&nbsp;

"When you go home you can take it with you, but it can help you to work harder and focus on your game.&nbsp;

"At the end of the day you have a target in your mind, you have a dream, you want to win the Premier League. I even said that two years ago when I came - it is a dream to win the Premier League."&nbsp;

After two straight draws against Leicester City and West Ham United, a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth last time out eased supporters' fears that Liverpool were starting to crumble under the strain.&nbsp;

Salah said it was natural for players at the highest level to feel the heat of a tough title race.&nbsp;

"You can feel it because you're still a human being," the Egypt international added.&nbsp;

"For me it's not a big deal if I win a game now or three weeks ago. I want to win each game, but for myself I said we're playing for the Premier League, so there's pressure."&nbsp;

Pressure is part and parcel of playing for a team with title ambitions and Liverpool must embrace it as they pursue a first league crown in almost 30 years, forward Mohamed Salah has said.

Pressure is part and parcel of playing for a team with title ambitions and Liverpool must embrace it as they pursue a first league crown in almost 30 years, forward Mohamed Salah has said. Liverpool trail leaders Manchester City on goal difference though they have played a game less than the reigning champions. They will reclaim top spot if they avoid defeat at Manchester United on Sunday. "I said in November that there is pressure and it will be there until the end of the season, because when you play for the Premier League you have to accept that there is pressure," Salah told Sky Sports. "When you go home you can take it with you, but it can help you to work harder and focus on your game. "At the end of the day you have a target in your mind, you have a dream, you want to win the Premier League. I even said that two years ago when I came - it is a dream to win the Premier League." After two straight draws against Leicester City and West Ham United, a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth last time out eased supporters' fears that Liverpool were starting to crumble under the strain. Salah said it was natural for players at the highest level to feel the heat of a tough title race. "You can feel it because you're still a human being," the Egypt international added. "For me it's not a big deal if I win a game now or three weeks ago. I want to win each game, but for myself I said we're playing for the Premier League, so there's pressure."

Mohamed Salah backs Liverpool to embrace pressure of title race

Tottenham Hotspur defender Kieran Trippier has hailed their ability to grind out results in recent weeks as they continue to juggle domestic and European commitments without his fellow England internationals, Harry Kane and Dele Alli.

Injuries to top scorer Kane and playmaker Alli, along with Son Heung-min's absence due to Asian Cup duty, meant the club's squad-depth was exposed during losses to Chelsea and Crystal Palace which ended their domestic cup campaigns last month.

But four straight Premier League victories have kept Spurs in the title race at this stage for a fourth consecutive season, while a 3-0 home win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League last-16 first-leg has boosted their hopes of progressing.

"The past few weeks have been very good," England full-back Tripper told Sky Sports on Saturday.

"We could have played a lot better, we all know that, but the results are the most important thing.

"We've had a few injuries recently and the people that have stepped in have done really well."

Trippier has credited Son's purple patch in front of goal for Tottenham's resurgence, with the South Korean scoring four times in as many appearances since returning from playing for South Korea in a third tournament since the end of last season.

Son has now scored 16 goals in all competitions -- 11 in his last 12 matches -- and Spurs have won whenever the forward has found the net this season.

"If you look at Son, he's played in three major tournaments this season and he still looks fresh," added Trippier.

"He's come back and scored goals and topped it off with the result the other night which was amazing."

Spurs, currently third in the league five points behind the pacesetters Liverpool with 12 games left, next visit 15th-placed Burnley on February 23.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Kieran Trippier has hailed their ability to grind out results in recent weeks as they continue to juggle domestic and European commitments without his fellow England internationals, Harry Kane and Dele Alli.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Kieran Trippier has hailed their ability to grind out results in recent weeks as they continue to juggle domestic and European commitments without his fellow England internationals, Harry Kane and Dele Alli. Injuries to top scorer Kane and playmaker Alli, along with Son Heung-min's absence due to Asian Cup duty, meant the club's squad-depth was exposed during losses to Chelsea and Crystal Palace which ended their domestic cup campaigns last month. But four straight Premier League victories have kept Spurs in the title race at this stage for a fourth consecutive season, while a 3-0 home win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League last-16 first-leg has boosted their hopes of progressing. "The past few weeks have been very good," England full-back Tripper told Sky Sports on Saturday. "We could have played a lot better, we all know that, but the results are the most important thing. "We've had a few injuries recently and the people that have stepped in have done really well." Trippier has credited Son's purple patch in front of goal for Tottenham's resurgence, with the South Korean scoring four times in as many appearances since returning from playing for South Korea in a third tournament since the end of last season. Son has now scored 16 goals in all competitions -- 11 in his last 12 matches -- and Spurs have won whenever the forward has found the net this season. "If you look at Son, he's played in three major tournaments this season and he still looks fresh," added Trippier. "He's come back and scored goals and topped it off with the result the other night which was amazing." Spurs, currently third in the league five points behind the pacesetters Liverpool with 12 games left, next visit 15th-placed Burnley on February 23.

Tottenham's fighting spirit delights Kieran Trippier

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has apologised to Riyad Mahrez for the winger's lack of game time in recent weeks, saying the Algerian's form is not to be blamed.

Mahrez, who arrived at the Etihad Stadium from Leicester City for a club record $77.36 million at the start of the season, has not started for City in the Premier League since the victory at Southampton on December 30.

The 27-year-old has impressed Guardiola by making the most of his opportunities but the form of Raheem Sterling, Leroy Sane and Bernardo Silva has prevented him getting an extended run into the side.

"I am the reason (he has not played). He is absolutely not guilty," Guardiola told reporters. "I am sad because he is training incredibly.

"We have incredible players, like for example Bernardo and Raz (Sterling) in top, top form and that is the only reason why. There's no particular reason, like being upset or something like that.

"He is a guy we are happy with but unfortunately I am not kind with him. In fact, I cannot give him the minutes he deserves, so I'm sorry. That's all I can say."

Mahrez is set to be involved in City's FA Cup fifth-round trip to Newport County on Saturday, where the winger will aim to add to his nine goals in all competitions this season.

Guardiola expects Mahrez to get his share of regular first-team football during the season run-in, with City still fighting for four trophies.

"Give him five or six games in a row playing and he is going to play at the level of Sterling or Bernardo, or the players who play," the Spanish manager added.

"Just keep going, not complain too much, move forward and fight more and more. His time is coming and I'm pretty sure he is going to play good."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has apologised to Riyad Mahrez for the winger's lack of game time in recent weeks, saying the Algerian's form is not to be blamed.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has apologised to Riyad Mahrez for the winger's lack of game time in recent weeks, saying the Algerian's form is not to be blamed. Mahrez, who arrived at the Etihad Stadium from Leicester City for a club record $77.36 million at the start of the season, has not started for City in the Premier League since the victory at Southampton on December 30. The 27-year-old has impressed Guardiola by making the most of his opportunities but the form of Raheem Sterling, Leroy Sane and Bernardo Silva has prevented him getting an extended run into the side. "I am the reason (he has not played). He is absolutely not guilty," Guardiola told reporters. "I am sad because he is training incredibly. "We have incredible players, like for example Bernardo and Raz (Sterling) in top, top form and that is the only reason why. There's no particular reason, like being upset or something like that. "He is a guy we are happy with but unfortunately I am not kind with him. In fact, I cannot give him the minutes he deserves, so I'm sorry. That's all I can say." Mahrez is set to be involved in City's FA Cup fifth-round trip to Newport County on Saturday, where the winger will aim to add to his nine goals in all competitions this season. Guardiola expects Mahrez to get his share of regular first-team football during the season run-in, with City still fighting for four trophies. "Give him five or six games in a row playing and he is going to play at the level of Sterling or Bernardo, or the players who play," the Spanish manager added. "Just keep going, not complain too much, move forward and fight more and more. His time is coming and I'm pretty sure he is going to play good."

Pep Guardiola 'sad and sorry' for keeping Mahrez out of team

Midfielder Aaron Ramsey was not used in his best position at Arsenal and can offer Juventus something different when he joins them next season, according to the Italian club.&nbsp;

Ramsey is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/aaron-ramsey-leaves-arsenal-after-11-years-to-join-juventus-196858">set to join Juventus on a four-year deal</a> in the close season after signing a pre-contract with the defending Serie A champions this week. The Welshman's contract at Arsenal expires this season.&nbsp;

The 28-year-old has played in a number of midfield positions and also played as a wide forward during his 11-year stay at the north London club.&nbsp;

Juventus Sporting Director Fabio Paratici said Juventus should play him as a 'mezzala' - an advanced role in a three-man midfield - to make use of Ramsey's goal-scoring ability.&nbsp;

"Ramsey is a player who, in my opinion, has never found his position, because he has never played as a 'mezzala' in a three, which is his role," Paratici told Gazzetta dello Sport.&nbsp;

"He's more technical, he's a final ball man, he has a nose for the goal. He is a different player from what we've got, we don't have someone like him in our squad."&nbsp;

Midfielder Aaron Ramsey was not used in his best position at Arsenal and can offer Juventus something different when he joins them next season, according to the Italian club.

Midfielder Aaron Ramsey was not used in his best position at Arsenal and can offer Juventus something different when he joins them next season, according to the Italian club. Ramsey is set to join Juventus on a four-year deal in the close season after signing a pre-contract with the defending Serie A champions this week. The Welshman's contract at Arsenal expires this season. The 28-year-old has played in a number of midfield positions and also played as a wide forward during his 11-year stay at the north London club. Juventus Sporting Director Fabio Paratici said Juventus should play him as a 'mezzala' - an advanced role in a three-man midfield - to make use of Ramsey's goal-scoring ability. "Ramsey is a player who, in my opinion, has never found his position, because he has never played as a 'mezzala' in a three, which is his role," Paratici told Gazzetta dello Sport. "He's more technical, he's a final ball man, he has a nose for the goal. He is a different player from what we've got, we don't have someone like him in our squad."

Arsenal did not play Aaron Ramsey in best position, says Juventus boss

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey is leaving the club after 11 seasons to join Juventus, the Serie A club said on Monday as it confirmed the Welshman had signed a four-year contract.

The 28-year-old will join the Turin side in July and become the third Welshman to play for them after John Charles, who played for them from 1957 to 1962, and Ian Rush.

Ramsey has made 256 Premier League appearances since joining Arsenal from Cardiff City in 2008 but he has struggled for a place in the starting line-up under Unai Emery this season and failed to agree on a new deal with the London club in the final year of his contract.

The impasse enabled him to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs since Jan. 1.

The BBC said that Ramsey will earn over $514,040 a week at Juventus, making him the highest-earning British player ever based on basic salary.

Ramsey has made 22 league appearances for Arsenal this season, starting in nine of those and scoring twice, including a splendid strike against Fulham in October that was regarded by many as an early contender for goal of the season.

He had month-long loans to Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City during the 2010-11 season to help him regain match fitness as he recovered from injury.

Ramsey published a statement on Twitter thanking Arsenal's "loyal and supportive" fans.

"You welcomed me as a teenager and have been there for me through all the highs and lows I've encountered during my time at the club," he said. "It is with a heavy heart that I leave after 11 incredible years in North London."

Arsenal said in a statement that Ramsey had made a "fantastic contribution" to the club.

"He has always been a consummate professional and will always have a special place in the hearts and memories of Arsenal fans around the world," it said.

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey is leaving the club after 11 seasons to join Juventus, the Serie A club said on Monday as it confirmed the Welshman had signed a four-year contract.

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey is leaving the club after 11 seasons to join Juventus, the Serie A club said on Monday as it confirmed the Welshman had signed a four-year contract. The 28-year-old will join the Turin side in July and become the third Welshman to play for them after John Charles, who played for them from 1957 to 1962, and Ian Rush. Ramsey has made 256 Premier League appearances since joining Arsenal from Cardiff City in 2008 but he has struggled for a place in the starting line-up under Unai Emery this season and failed to agree on a new deal with the London club in the final year of his contract. The impasse enabled him to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs since Jan. 1. The BBC said that Ramsey will earn over $514,040 a week at Juventus, making him the highest-earning British player ever based on basic salary. Ramsey has made 22 league appearances for Arsenal this season, starting in nine of those and scoring twice, including a splendid strike against Fulham in October that was regarded by many as an early contender for goal of the season. He had month-long loans to Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City during the 2010-11 season to help him regain match fitness as he recovered from injury. Ramsey published a statement on Twitter thanking Arsenal's "loyal and supportive" fans. "You welcomed me as a teenager and have been there for me through all the highs and lows I've encountered during my time at the club," he said. "It is with a heavy heart that I leave after 11 incredible years in North London." Arsenal said in a statement that Ramsey had made a "fantastic contribution" to the club. "He has always been a consummate professional and will always have a special place in the hearts and memories of Arsenal fans around the world," it said.

Aaron Ramsey leaves Arsenal after 11 years to join Juventus

Pele and Gordon Banks will forever be connected by the save of the century in Mexico in 1970, and the Brazilian legend explained exactly why on Tuesday as he paid tribute to a "fine human being" and "a goalkeeper with magic."

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-world-cup-winning-keeper-gordon-banks-dead-at-81-196933">death of the 81-year-old former England keeper</a> was announced by his former club Stoke City on Tuesday.

Banks leapt across the goalmouth to turn Pele's header around the post in the first-round clash in Guadalajara in 1970. The miraculous stop was soon dubbed "the save of the century."

"For many people, their memory of Gordon Banks is defined by the save he made against me in 1970," Pele said in a Facebook post. "I understand why."

"The save was one of the best I have ever seen - in real life and in all the thousands of games I have watched since."

"When you are a footballer, you know straight away how well you have hit the ball. I hit that header exactly as I had hoped. Exactly where I wanted it to go. And I was ready to celebrate."

"But then this man, Banks, appeared in my sight, like a kind of blue phantom, is how I described him. He came from nowhere and he did something I didn't feel was possible. He pushed my header, somehow, up and over. And I couldn't believe what I saw. Even now when I watch it l, I can't believe it. I can't believe how he moved so far, so fast."

"I scored so many goals in my life, but many people, when they meet me, always ask me about that save. While it was indeed phenomenal, my memory of Gordon is not defined by that - it is defined by his friendship. He was a kind and warm man who gave so much to people," the 78-year-old Pele wrote.

"So I am glad he saved my header - because that act was the start of a friendship between us that I will always treasure. Whenever we met, it was always like we had never been apart."

"I have great sadness in my heart today and I send condolences to the family he was so proud of."

"Rest in peace, my friend. Yes, you were a goalkeeper with magic. But you were also so much more. You were a fine human being."

Pele and Gordon Banks will forever be connected by the save of the century in Mexico in 1970, and the Brazilian legend explained exactly why on Tuesday as he paid tribute to a "fine human being" and "a goalkeeper with magic.

Pele and Gordon Banks will forever be connected by the save of the century in Mexico in 1970, and the Brazilian legend explained exactly why on Tuesday as he paid tribute to a "fine human being" and "a goalkeeper with magic." The death of the 81-year-old former England keeper was announced by his former club Stoke City on Tuesday. Banks leapt across the goalmouth to turn Pele's header around the post in the first-round clash in Guadalajara in 1970. The miraculous stop was soon dubbed "the save of the century." "For many people, their memory of Gordon Banks is defined by the save he made against me in 1970," Pele said in a Facebook post. "I understand why." "The save was one of the best I have ever seen - in real life and in all the thousands of games I have watched since." "When you are a footballer, you know straight away how well you have hit the ball. I hit that header exactly as I had hoped. Exactly where I wanted it to go. And I was ready to celebrate." "But then this man, Banks, appeared in my sight, like a kind of blue phantom, is how I described him. He came from nowhere and he did something I didn't feel was possible. He pushed my header, somehow, up and over. And I couldn't believe what I saw. Even now when I watch it l, I can't believe it. I can't believe how he moved so far, so fast." "I scored so many goals in my life, but many people, when they meet me, always ask me about that save. While it was indeed phenomenal, my memory of Gordon is not defined by that - it is defined by his friendship. He was a kind and warm man who gave so much to people," the 78-year-old Pele wrote. "So I am glad he saved my header - because that act was the start of a friendship between us that I will always treasure. Whenever we met, it was always like we had never been apart." "I have great sadness in my heart today and I send condolences to the family he was so proud of." "Rest in peace, my friend. Yes, you were a goalkeeper with magic. But you were also so much more. You were a fine human being."

Pele pays tribute to goalkeeping magic of 'blue phantom' Gordon Banks

Manchester City ruthlessly destroyed woeful Chelsea in a 6-0 win at The Etihad on Sunday to return to the top of the Premier League.&nbsp;

To add to that, Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri complicated the situation, even more, when he walked down the tunnel without shaking Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's hand.&nbsp;

While Guardiola and Sarri were both keen to play down any suggestions of a rift between the two managers.&nbsp;

Sarri insisted this was not due to having a personal problem with Guardiola.&nbsp;

"No I didn't see him in the moment but of course as usual I will go to say hello to him later, as usual. It was by chance, because I wanted to go to the dressing room, at the moment I didn't see him. I have not a problem with Pep (Guardiola)," said Sarri.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Sarri refused to shake Pep Guardiola after Chelsea got smacked 6-0 by Man City 😂😂😂😭 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCICHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCICHE</a><a href="https://t.co/6PG9CvRROA">pic.twitter.com/6PG9CvRROA</a>
— Pye Waw (@pyewaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/pyewaw/status/1094679704697798658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Similarly, Guardiola said he didn't have an issue with Sarri and spoke to Chelsea assistant manager Gianfranco Zola at full-time.&nbsp;

"I have a good relationship with him so no problem at all," said Pep Guardiola during the post-match conferrence.&nbsp;

Manchester City ruthlessly destroyed woeful Chelsea in a 6-0 win at The Etihad on Sunday to return to the top of the Premier League. To add to that, Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri complicated the situation, even more, when he walked down the tunnel without shaking Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's hand.

Manchester City ruthlessly destroyed woeful Chelsea in a 6-0 win at The Etihad on Sunday to return to the top of the Premier League. To add to that, Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri complicated the situation, even more, when he walked down the tunnel without shaking Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's hand. While Guardiola and Sarri were both keen to play down any suggestions of a rift between the two managers. Sarri insisted this was not due to having a personal problem with Guardiola. "No I didn't see him in the moment but of course as usual I will go to say hello to him later, as usual. It was by chance, because I wanted to go to the dressing room, at the moment I didn't see him. I have not a problem with Pep (Guardiola)," said Sarri. Watch the video: Sarri refused to shake Pep Guardiola after Chelsea got smacked 6-0 by Man City 😂😂😂😭 #MCICHEpic.twitter.com/6PG9CvRROA — Pye Waw (@pyewaw) February 10, 2019 × Similarly, Guardiola said he didn't have an issue with Sarri and spoke to Chelsea assistant manager Gianfranco Zola at full-time. "I have a good relationship with him so no problem at all," said Pep Guardiola during the post-match conferrence.

Maurizio Sarri explains handshake snub as Pep Guardiola dismisses controversy

Epl, News on Epl, stories on Epl, articles on Epl, Epl stories at Wion, Epl news, Epl latest news