The German government are set to allow football matches to take place after weeks of lockdown due to coronavirus lockdown. The matches will begin in May and will be played behind closed doors, according to the draft government agreement.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/halves-shorter-than-45-minutes-pfa-chief-gordon-taylor-hints-at-change-of-rules-as-premier-league-gears-up-for-return-296796" hreflang="en">Halves shorter than 45 minutes? PFA chief Gordon Taylor hints at change of rules as Premier League gears up for return</a>

According to Germany's top brass,&nbsp;restarting games for their first and second division will help "limit economic damage" for 36 clubs.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-returns-to-turin-after-coronavirus-lockdown-296743" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Turin after coronavirus lockdown</a>

Bundesliga is the top-flight league n German football followed by a second division league, both have 36 clubs and more than a dozen of them are on brink of bankruptcy. The league will earn nearly 300 million euros from TV contract if the season is allowed to complete.&nbsp;

German Chancellor Angela Merkel will be setting a date for the football season to resume. The date will be announced after a telephone conference between the Chancellor and the State Premiers.

According to few media reports, the season could resume from May 21, and if it does, Bundesliga will become the first European football league to return into action.&nbsp;

The teams have returned to training since April 6 but the rules of social distancing are strictly followed.&nbsp;

"Restarting match activity must be preceded by a two-week quarantine, where appropriate in the form of a training camp" for players,"&nbsp;the document read.

The German government are set to allow football matches to take place after weeks of lockdown due to coronavirus lockdown. The matches will begin in May and will be played behind closed doors, according to the draft government agreement.

The German government are set to allow football matches to take place after weeks of lockdown due to coronavirus lockdown. The matches will begin in May and will be played behind closed doors, according to the draft government agreement. Also read: Halves shorter than 45 minutes? PFA chief Gordon Taylor hints at change of rules as Premier League gears up for return According to Germany's top brass, restarting games for their first and second division will help "limit economic damage" for 36 clubs. Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Turin after coronavirus lockdown Bundesliga is the top-flight league n German football followed by a second division league, both have 36 clubs and more than a dozen of them are on brink of bankruptcy. The league will earn nearly 300 million euros from TV contract if the season is allowed to complete. German Chancellor Angela Merkel will be setting a date for the football season to resume. The date will be announced after a telephone conference between the Chancellor and the State Premiers. According to few media reports, the season could resume from May 21, and if it does, Bundesliga will become the first European football league to return into action. The teams have returned to training since April 6 but the rules of social distancing are strictly followed. "Restarting match activity must be preceded by a two-week quarantine, where appropriate in the form of a training camp" for players," the document read.

German Bundesliga set to resume in May to 'limit economic damage'

According to Juventus’ chief football officer Fabio Paratici, Paul Pogba might not earn as much as he will earn he currently earns in Manchester United after his rumoured transfer with Juventus is successful.

Paratici has said this because the sport has faced a massive hit financially because of the coronavirus pandemic. Pogba has a massive pay-grade with the Red Devils but has been eyeing to move out of the Manchester since the past couple of years, the Frenchman expects a pay rise due to the transfer.&nbsp;

According to an Italian media outlet, Paratici warned Pogba: "Paul Pogba is a fantastic player, we know him as a champion.

"But something will change after the coronavirus crisis because logically the salary demands someone at his level would have had before is now more difficult to get hold of. Or, at least, he’ll have fewer clubs prepared to pay that money."

On why Pogba couldn’t command the same wage as Cristiano Ronaldo, Paratici added: "Cristiano is a different player to all the others. He brings incredible and exponential growth in revenue, representing a brand that is almost as big as a club."

He continued: "Clubs will certainly have some more difficulties to deal with, so with less income, we’ll need to be more creative and elastic, finding a different formula for transfer deals. I expect many exchanges of players, although obviously, we can’t use the NBA draft because that is a closed system.

"We should take more from the NBA and American sports in general. After all, the Premier League has this big advantage over the other leagues because they control the brand and represent the whole league rather than individual clubs.

"What we will see is more extended loans, so a two-year loan, even three. Some say we could start the 2020-21 season with the same players as 2019-20, which is also a possibility.

"There will certainly be less cash circulating and that’s obvious to everyone. We are going through a difficult moment globally, not just in football, and the consequences will be felt everywhere. Therefore, I think we’ll see longer loans because rather than purchase homes, people are more likely in a time of uncertainty to rent.

"I believe that if we exchange players between the top 12-15 clubs in the world, the value of the transfers won’t drop. When purchasing a new player, that’s a different matter and we can see a fall in the fees."

According to Juventus’ chief football officer Fabio Paratici, Paul Pogba might not earn as much as he will earn he currently earns in Manchester United after his rumoured transfer with Juventus is successful.

According to Juventus’ chief football officer Fabio Paratici, Paul Pogba might not earn as much as he will earn he currently earns in Manchester United after his rumoured transfer with Juventus is successful. Paratici has said this because the sport has faced a massive hit financially because of the coronavirus pandemic. Pogba has a massive pay-grade with the Red Devils but has been eyeing to move out of the Manchester since the past couple of years, the Frenchman expects a pay rise due to the transfer. According to an Italian media outlet, Paratici warned Pogba: "Paul Pogba is a fantastic player, we know him as a champion. "But something will change after the coronavirus crisis because logically the salary demands someone at his level would have had before is now more difficult to get hold of. Or, at least, he’ll have fewer clubs prepared to pay that money." On why Pogba couldn’t command the same wage as Cristiano Ronaldo, Paratici added: "Cristiano is a different player to all the others. He brings incredible and exponential growth in revenue, representing a brand that is almost as big as a club." He continued: "Clubs will certainly have some more difficulties to deal with, so with less income, we’ll need to be more creative and elastic, finding a different formula for transfer deals. I expect many exchanges of players, although obviously, we can’t use the NBA draft because that is a closed system. "We should take more from the NBA and American sports in general. After all, the Premier League has this big advantage over the other leagues because they control the brand and represent the whole league rather than individual clubs. "What we will see is more extended loans, so a two-year loan, even three. Some say we could start the 2020-21 season with the same players as 2019-20, which is also a possibility. "There will certainly be less cash circulating and that’s obvious to everyone. We are going through a difficult moment globally, not just in football, and the consequences will be felt everywhere. Therefore, I think we’ll see longer loans because rather than purchase homes, people are more likely in a time of uncertainty to rent. "I believe that if we exchange players between the top 12-15 clubs in the world, the value of the transfers won’t drop. When purchasing a new player, that’s a different matter and we can see a fall in the fees."

Juventus’ chief football officer warns Pogba on his transfer to Italian side

The coronavirus pandemic has sent shockwaves to the sporting world and the turbulence are meant for at least a couple of years. The women's European Championship which was supposed to be held in 2021 will now be held from 6-31 July 2022.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italys-sports-minister-says-caution-needed-over-return-to-football-294197" hreflang="en">Italy's sports minister says caution needed over return to football</a>

This decision has come after the men's Euros and Tokyo Olympics were postponed until 2021 due to the on-going coronavirus.&nbsp;

UEFA has come out to confirm the news, they even plan the venues of the event remain the same.&nbsp;

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has decided to postpone the event as the competition should get the "spotlight it deserves".&nbsp;

He said: &nbsp;"By moving to the following year, we are ensuring that our flagship women's competition will be the only major football tournament of the summer."

UEFA's chief of women football, Nadine Kessler said: "This decision puts us in a position to deliver a tournament that attracts global attention, maximises media coverage and increases stadium attendances, and is, therefore, helping us to meet our core objective of inspiring the next generation of footballers.

"2022 also allows for further promotion and partner activation, which would have been much more difficult in what is now a crowded summer in 2021."

The Football Association's director of women's football, Baroness Sue Campbell said: "We are also grateful to the Commonwealth Games Federation for its collaboration as we sought to confirm these new dates, and look forward to working together to showcase the best of women's sport across both of our events."

The coronavirus pandemic has sent shockwaves to the sporting world and the turbulence are meant for at least a couple of years. The women's European Championship which was supposed to be held in 2021 will now be held from 6-31 July 2022.

The coronavirus pandemic has sent shockwaves to the sporting world and the turbulence are meant for at least a couple of years. The women's European Championship which was supposed to be held in 2021 will now be held from 6-31 July 2022. Also read: Italy's sports minister says caution needed over return to football This decision has come after the men's Euros and Tokyo Olympics were postponed until 2021 due to the on-going coronavirus. UEFA has come out to confirm the news, they even plan the venues of the event remain the same. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has decided to postpone the event as the competition should get the "spotlight it deserves". He said: "By moving to the following year, we are ensuring that our flagship women's competition will be the only major football tournament of the summer." UEFA's chief of women football, Nadine Kessler said: "This decision puts us in a position to deliver a tournament that attracts global attention, maximises media coverage and increases stadium attendances, and is, therefore, helping us to meet our core objective of inspiring the next generation of footballers. "2022 also allows for further promotion and partner activation, which would have been much more difficult in what is now a crowded summer in 2021." The Football Association's director of women's football, Baroness Sue Campbell said: "We are also grateful to the Commonwealth Games Federation for its collaboration as we sought to confirm these new dates, and look forward to working together to showcase the best of women's sport across both of our events."

Women's Euro Championship to be held in 2022 instead of 2021: UEFA

Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned on Wednesday caution was needed as he promised a decision "in the coming days" on whether Italian football clubs can return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Spadafora held a two-hour video-conference with representatives of Italian football, including federation chiefs, professional and amateurs leagues, players and doctors.

"I listened with great attention to the various positions that emerged and in the next few days, after a discussion with the Minister of Health and the Technical Scientific Committee, we will issue the updated provisions regarding the possibility and the procedures for a return to training," said Spadafora.

All sport in Italy has been suspended for the past six weeks as the country grapples with the COVID-19 crisis which has killed over 25,000 people.

"I can assure you that maintaining a profile of extreme prudence, as I am doing, is the most unpopular position imaginable," Spadafora later said in a post on Facebook.

"But we have the duty and responsibility to ensure that the whole country, obviously including the world of sport, can soon emerge from this health crisis.

"I am also a fan who misses following my team.&nbsp;

"I was looking forward to the European championships this summer, but they will be postponed, like the Olympics, the Giro d'Italia and all sports competitions in our country.&nbsp;

"It is a huge disappointment, in a much bigger and deeper pain, in an atrocious mourning that has struck our country, Europe, the whole world."

The 20 Serie A clubs voted unanimously on Tuesday to complete the league season, which has been suspended since March 9.

The federation presented Spadafora with a medical code to allow the resumption of competition.&nbsp;

Players could start training again, in small groups and under strict medical supervision, from May 4, the date on which the government plans to start easing the containment measures.

Matches would start at the end of May or the beginning of June.

Spadafora earlier addressed the Italian Senate on the "gradual resumption" of sports activities, and later held talks with representatives of 19 other Italian federations.

"This restart is necessary because sport is important not only for its economic value but also its social value," he said.

Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned on Wednesday caution was needed as he promised a decision "in the coming days" on whether Italian football clubs can return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned on Wednesday caution was needed as he promised a decision "in the coming days" on whether Italian football clubs can return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic. Spadafora held a two-hour video-conference with representatives of Italian football, including federation chiefs, professional and amateurs leagues, players and doctors. "I listened with great attention to the various positions that emerged and in the next few days, after a discussion with the Minister of Health and the Technical Scientific Committee, we will issue the updated provisions regarding the possibility and the procedures for a return to training," said Spadafora. All sport in Italy has been suspended for the past six weeks as the country grapples with the COVID-19 crisis which has killed over 25,000 people. "I can assure you that maintaining a profile of extreme prudence, as I am doing, is the most unpopular position imaginable," Spadafora later said in a post on Facebook. "But we have the duty and responsibility to ensure that the whole country, obviously including the world of sport, can soon emerge from this health crisis. "I am also a fan who misses following my team. "I was looking forward to the European championships this summer, but they will be postponed, like the Olympics, the Giro d'Italia and all sports competitions in our country. "It is a huge disappointment, in a much bigger and deeper pain, in an atrocious mourning that has struck our country, Europe, the whole world." The 20 Serie A clubs voted unanimously on Tuesday to complete the league season, which has been suspended since March 9. The federation presented Spadafora with a medical code to allow the resumption of competition. Players could start training again, in small groups and under strict medical supervision, from May 4, the date on which the government plans to start easing the containment measures. Matches would start at the end of May or the beginning of June. Spadafora earlier addressed the Italian Senate on the "gradual resumption" of sports activities, and later held talks with representatives of 19 other Italian federations. "This restart is necessary because sport is important not only for its economic value but also its social value," he said.

Italy's sports minister says caution needed over return to football

Wales national team coach and Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has a plan for squeezing in the international fixtures into the revamped calendar in 2020 by playing at least three games during scheduled breaks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-denies-receiving-any-notice-from-who-stating-delay-in-football-294011" hreflang="en">UEFA denies receiving any notice from WHO stating delay in football</a>

UEFA and the domestic leagues across the globe have agreed that their priority is to finish the 2019/20 campaign after the suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic ends.&nbsp;

As for the international fixtures, Euro qualifiers, World Cup qualifiers are yet to be played. Euro cup was supposed to be held this summers but due to the virus, the championship has been postponed till 2021.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2021-glasgow-set-to-host-championship-despite-postponement-293879" hreflang="en">EURO 2021: Glasgow set to host championship despite postponement</a>

Giggs in an interview said: “The play-offs for the Euros still have to be played so (we) need to find the time (for them) and squeeze in the games for the Nations League.

“I think it’s a really important time for international football because we’ll have a condensed calendar over the next couple of years, with the Euros next year and after that the World Cup which is going to be later on in the year and will already alter the calendar.

“There has to be a plan for international football over the short, medium and long term because of all the football that will be (played).

“I think perhaps there could be triple-headers in September and October, then giving the room for friendlies for teams that have qualified for the Euros and the teams that need to qualify, that’s the window they’ll have for the play-offs.”

Giggs understands the part that the players will be going through a tough schedule and their bodies will be prone to injuries.&nbsp;

“I already have managers ringing me when there are two games so when there are three ... it’s going to be tough. I’ll have to pick a squad of 40!" Giggs added.

“Certain teams have got to qualify for the Euros. The Nations League was a success, that starts again and I think the fans will understand a lot more about it.

“The Premier League are so strong and want to finish, there are still games in Europe that need to be finished.

“But for me as an international manager, my priority is getting ready for the Euros next summer.”&nbsp;

Wales national team coach and Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has a plan for squeezing in the international fixtures into the revamped calendar in 2020 by playing at least three games during scheduled breaks.

Wales national team coach and Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has a plan for squeezing in the international fixtures into the revamped calendar in 2020 by playing at least three games during scheduled breaks. Also read: UEFA denies receiving any notice from WHO stating delay in football UEFA and the domestic leagues across the globe have agreed that their priority is to finish the 2019/20 campaign after the suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic ends. As for the international fixtures, Euro qualifiers, World Cup qualifiers are yet to be played. Euro cup was supposed to be held this summers but due to the virus, the championship has been postponed till 2021. Also read: EURO 2021: Glasgow set to host championship despite postponement Giggs in an interview said: “The play-offs for the Euros still have to be played so (we) need to find the time (for them) and squeeze in the games for the Nations League. “I think it’s a really important time for international football because we’ll have a condensed calendar over the next couple of years, with the Euros next year and after that the World Cup which is going to be later on in the year and will already alter the calendar. “There has to be a plan for international football over the short, medium and long term because of all the football that will be (played). “I think perhaps there could be triple-headers in September and October, then giving the room for friendlies for teams that have qualified for the Euros and the teams that need to qualify, that’s the window they’ll have for the play-offs.” Giggs understands the part that the players will be going through a tough schedule and their bodies will be prone to injuries. “I already have managers ringing me when there are two games so when there are three ... it’s going to be tough. I’ll have to pick a squad of 40!" Giggs added. “Certain teams have got to qualify for the Euros. The Nations League was a success, that starts again and I think the fans will understand a lot more about it. “The Premier League are so strong and want to finish, there are still games in Europe that need to be finished. “But for me as an international manager, my priority is getting ready for the Euros next summer.”

Ryan Giggs' 'triple header' formula could benefit international fixtures after suspension ends

UEFA has denied receiving any request from WHO regarding suspending play of football until the end of 2021 as a preventive measure for a second wave of the global coronavirus.&nbsp;

Earlier an Italian publication suggested that the World Health Organisation (WHO) had sent a notice to UEFA regarding the suspension. According to the publication, UEFA received notice from the WHO during a two-and-a-half-hour Executive Committee meeting last Thursday, which recommended football is not resumed until the start of 2022 to avoid a second wave of COVID-19.

According to the reports, a UEFA spokesperson talked to a British Daily newspaper where he denied any such requests from the WHO. He said that there were no such requests from the WHO to cancel or stall the game of football until late 2021.&nbsp;

WHO has played a major role in helping the Olympic committee in rescheduling the games to 2021.&nbsp;

The World Health Organisation has also released a statement: “This is not correct. WHO never recommended that football should no longer be played until the end of 2021.”

The UEFA could also determine current rankings in the league tables across the European leagues to determine who qualifies for UEFA Champions League and who does not. This comes as a major shocker for Arsenal as they were expected to miss out the tournament for yet another year but they currently are placed fourth above Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspurs and Leicester City.&nbsp;

The UEFA's Executive Committee will meet again on Thursday after calendar proposals were proffered to the 55 member associates on Tuesday through videoconference, and an announcement on the topic is expected to follow as well as the latest on certain domestic leagues across Europe being ended immediately due to government regulations preventing football from restarting.&nbsp;

UEFA has denied receiving any request from WHO regarding suspending play of football until the end of 2021 as a preventive measure for a second wave of the global coronavirus.

UEFA has denied receiving any request from WHO regarding suspending play of football until the end of 2021 as a preventive measure for a second wave of the global coronavirus. Earlier an Italian publication suggested that the World Health Organisation (WHO) had sent a notice to UEFA regarding the suspension. According to the publication, UEFA received notice from the WHO during a two-and-a-half-hour Executive Committee meeting last Thursday, which recommended football is not resumed until the start of 2022 to avoid a second wave of COVID-19. According to the reports, a UEFA spokesperson talked to a British Daily newspaper where he denied any such requests from the WHO. He said that there were no such requests from the WHO to cancel or stall the game of football until late 2021. WHO has played a major role in helping the Olympic committee in rescheduling the games to 2021. The World Health Organisation has also released a statement: “This is not correct. WHO never recommended that football should no longer be played until the end of 2021.” The UEFA could also determine current rankings in the league tables across the European leagues to determine who qualifies for UEFA Champions League and who does not. This comes as a major shocker for Arsenal as they were expected to miss out the tournament for yet another year but they currently are placed fourth above Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspurs and Leicester City. The UEFA's Executive Committee will meet again on Thursday after calendar proposals were proffered to the 55 member associates on Tuesday through videoconference, and an announcement on the topic is expected to follow as well as the latest on certain domestic leagues across Europe being ended immediately due to government regulations preventing football from restarting.

UEFA denies receiving any notice from WHO stating delay in football

Glasgow will continue to host the postponed Euro championship in 2021.The members of the Glasgow Events board have said that the city will remain part of the tournament in 2021 "on the condition of a reshaped funding package from the partners and a renegotiation of a number of legal obligations with UEFA in support of budget savings".

The funding partners will have to fund additional 1 million pounds due to the costs after the postponement.&nbsp;

According to the reports, the council's executive director of finance, states: "This reshaped funding package, together with the savings target, projects a balanced host city budget and no residual funding requirement."

It adds: "The economic and social benefits to Glasgow and Scotland from hosting EURO 2020 remain the same in 2021 as those highlighted at bid stage.

"It is estimated that £10m economic impact will be generated through the visitor economy and social impact will be created through the community engagement activities (Football Festival, volunteer programme, Trophy Tour and Fan Zone cultural programme).

"In addition, it is anticipated that following the current health emergency, EURO 2020 will make a significant contribution to creating a festival atmosphere once again in the city centre, provide an opportunity for communities to gather and celebrate together and provide a welcome boost to businesses in the city following an exceptionally difficult year. "

Glasgow will continue to host the postponed Euro championship in 2021.The members of the Glasgow Events board have said that the city will remain part of the tournament in 2021 "on the condition of a reshaped funding package from the partners and a renegotiation of a number of legal obligations with UEFA in support of budget savings".

Glasgow will continue to host the postponed Euro championship in 2021.The members of the Glasgow Events board have said that the city will remain part of the tournament in 2021 "on the condition of a reshaped funding package from the partners and a renegotiation of a number of legal obligations with UEFA in support of budget savings". The funding partners will have to fund additional 1 million pounds due to the costs after the postponement. According to the reports, the council's executive director of finance, states: "This reshaped funding package, together with the savings target, projects a balanced host city budget and no residual funding requirement." It adds: "The economic and social benefits to Glasgow and Scotland from hosting EURO 2020 remain the same in 2021 as those highlighted at bid stage. "It is estimated that £10m economic impact will be generated through the visitor economy and social impact will be created through the community engagement activities (Football Festival, volunteer programme, Trophy Tour and Fan Zone cultural programme). "In addition, it is anticipated that following the current health emergency, EURO 2020 will make a significant contribution to creating a festival atmosphere once again in the city centre, provide an opportunity for communities to gather and celebrate together and provide a welcome boost to businesses in the city following an exceptionally difficult year. "

EURO 2021: Glasgow set to host championship despite postponement

Summer transfer rumours: Check out where your favourite football stars could play next season!

A month has now passed since the last football matches were played before packed stadiums in Europe, and the havoc wrought by the coronavirus pandemic means that nobody can say with any certainty when the sport might return.

A crowd of 50,000 filled Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow on Thursday, March 12 to see Rangers lose 3-1 to Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League.

Other matches that night were played behind closed doors, or postponed altogether, as Italy announced its death toll from the virus had passed 1,000.

Fast forward 31 days and the figures make for grim reading throughout Europe, with Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom the worst hit. Countries across the continent are now weeks into restrictive lockdowns.

Nobody knows when sport will be allowed to restart behind closed doors let alone before crowds. The psychological impact of the current situation means many people may well now have second thoughts about mixing with vast crowds at a football match in future.

In any case, as Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admitted when the Premier League season was suspended on March 13: "Today, football and football matches really aren't important at all."

Yet his club are among those who have been worst hit by the suspension, given that they stand on the brink of winning the English title for the first time in 30 years.

In England, football will not return until it is "safe and appropriate"to do so, authorities have said.

However, UEFA, the governing body for the game in Europe, has remained optimistic about the prospect of finishing the season and is working on the possibility of playing in July and August if need be.

Aleksander Ceferin, the UEFA president, has also said that there is "no way" Liverpool should be denied the Premier League title, and suggested that "in case the matches cannot be played, we will need to find a way".

Scrapping a season that was close to its conclusion would not make sense, but it remains to be seen if the campaign can resume.

<h2>- 'Critical situation' -</h2>

"No match, no competition, no league is worth risking a single human life," FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said.&nbsp;"It would be more than irresponsible to force competitions to resume if things are not 100 percent safe."

The damage caused by COVID-19 has been dramatic. Even players are not worrying about returning to action.

"It's not the thing I am worrying about. I am thinking about my family first and foremost and then about getting this sorted. This is a critical situation," Paris Saint-Germain's Pablo Sarabia told AFP.

Leading football players and figures -- from Juventus and France star Blaise Matuidi to Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta -- have tested positive for the virus. Former Real Madrid president Lorenzo Sanz died.

Euro 2020 was postponed by a year, as was the Copa America.

Players at top sides have taken pay cuts, of 70 percent in the case of Barcelona.

There has been an unseemly dispute in England after UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock called for Premier League players to accept wage cuts.

Wealthy English clubs have also faced a backlash for tapping into a government scheme allowing them to furlough non-playing staff. Liverpool performed a U-turn and apologised for having applied.

<h2>- Profound changes? -</h2>

However, those wealthy clubs cannot afford to do without the income they get from broadcasters. That is at the core of their desperation to complete this season.

In England, the cost to Premier League clubs of having to reimburse broadcasters for matches not played has been put at 762 million pounds ($951m).

While idle players are stuck at home, trying to follow fitness programmes in their front rooms or gardens, many wonder if football will be profoundly changed because of the financial impact of this crisis.

"The economy will be different and so will football. Maybe it will be better," Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti told Italy's Corriere dello Sport. That remains to be seen.

A month has now passed since the last football matches were played before packed stadiums in Europe, and the havoc wrought by the coronavirus pandemic means that nobody can say with any certainty when the sport might return.

A month has now passed since the last football matches were played before packed stadiums in Europe, and the havoc wrought by the coronavirus pandemic means that nobody can say with any certainty when the sport might return. A crowd of 50,000 filled Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow on Thursday, March 12 to see Rangers lose 3-1 to Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League. Other matches that night were played behind closed doors, or postponed altogether, as Italy announced its death toll from the virus had passed 1,000. Fast forward 31 days and the figures make for grim reading throughout Europe, with Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom the worst hit. Countries across the continent are now weeks into restrictive lockdowns. Nobody knows when sport will be allowed to restart behind closed doors let alone before crowds. The psychological impact of the current situation means many people may well now have second thoughts about mixing with vast crowds at a football match in future. In any case, as Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admitted when the Premier League season was suspended on March 13: "Today, football and football matches really aren't important at all." Yet his club are among those who have been worst hit by the suspension, given that they stand on the brink of winning the English title for the first time in 30 years. In England, football will not return until it is "safe and appropriate"to do so, authorities have said. However, UEFA, the governing body for the game in Europe, has remained optimistic about the prospect of finishing the season and is working on the possibility of playing in July and August if need be. Aleksander Ceferin, the UEFA president, has also said that there is "no way" Liverpool should be denied the Premier League title, and suggested that "in case the matches cannot be played, we will need to find a way". Scrapping a season that was close to its conclusion would not make sense, but it remains to be seen if the campaign can resume. - 'Critical situation' - "No match, no competition, no league is worth risking a single human life," FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said. "It would be more than irresponsible to force competitions to resume if things are not 100 percent safe." The damage caused by COVID-19 has been dramatic. Even players are not worrying about returning to action. "It's not the thing I am worrying about. I am thinking about my family first and foremost and then about getting this sorted. This is a critical situation," Paris Saint-Germain's Pablo Sarabia told AFP. Leading football players and figures -- from Juventus and France star Blaise Matuidi to Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta -- have tested positive for the virus. Former Real Madrid president Lorenzo Sanz died. Euro 2020 was postponed by a year, as was the Copa America. Players at top sides have taken pay cuts, of 70 percent in the case of Barcelona. There has been an unseemly dispute in England after UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock called for Premier League players to accept wage cuts. Wealthy English clubs have also faced a backlash for tapping into a government scheme allowing them to furlough non-playing staff. Liverpool performed a U-turn and apologised for having applied. - Profound changes? - However, those wealthy clubs cannot afford to do without the income they get from broadcasters. That is at the core of their desperation to complete this season. In England, the cost to Premier League clubs of having to reimburse broadcasters for matches not played has been put at 762 million pounds ($951m). While idle players are stuck at home, trying to follow fitness programmes in their front rooms or gardens, many wonder if football will be profoundly changed because of the financial impact of this crisis. "The economy will be different and so will football. Maybe it will be better," Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti told Italy's Corriere dello Sport. That remains to be seen.

A month into lockdown, football forced to play waiting game

Sporting events that fell victim to coronavirus!

Liverpool could have been crowned Premier League champions on Monday for the first time in a generation. Instead, the stadium will be silent and the streets empty.

Jurgen Klopp's team needed Manchester City to lose to Burnley on Saturday to give them a chance to seal the deal at their local rivals Everton two days later.

Also read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/champions-league-atletico-madrid-come-from-behind-to-knock-out-liverpool-from-round-of-16-285741">Champions League: Atletico Madrid come from behind to knock-out Liverpool from Round of 16</a>

Regardless of whether it would have happened at Goodison Park or over the coming weeks, their first top-flight title for 30 years was a mere formality.&nbsp;

But now fans are wondering when, or even if, they will be crowned champions after the coronavirus laid waste to the global sporting calendar.

The message coming from Liverpool is that there are more important issues than football to talk about, even with the club tantalisingly close to glory.

"I've said before that football always seems the most important of the least important things," Klopp said in a statement on Friday.&nbsp;

"Today, football and football matches really aren't important at all.

"If it's a choice between football and the good of the wider society, it's no contest. Really, it isn't."

Klopp's stance won him the support of World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who thanked him for his "powerful message".

Liverpool supporters, desperate to reclaim their position at the pinnacle of the English game, agree with their German manager, saying the pandemic overshadows football.

Supporters' union Spirit of Shankly is focusing on the damaging fallout from the COVID-19 virus.

"In talks with @lfc we asked for assurances that non-playing staff will not lose their pay as a consequence of shifts being cancelled," it said in a statement.

"We also need to keep in mind those most vulnerable. Cancelling football games means (foodbanks) will be hit hard."

Liverpool have stumbled in recent weeks, knocked out of the Champions League by Atletico Madrid and dumped out of the FA Cup by Chelsea.

But they have been peerless in the Premier League, leaving their rivals in their wake to race 25 points clear of defending champions Manchester City.

With Alisson Becker in goal, Virgil van Dijk marshalling the defence and their devastating front three of Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, Klopp's men have been irresistible.&nbsp;

Paul Hayward, writing in the Daily Telegraph, said Liverpool should be crowned champions for the 19th time even if no more games are played.

"If a season ends too soon, its natural winning line is the point it reached before the halt was called: emphatically so, 29 games into a 38-match campaign, which is a respectable distance," he wrote.

'Voiding' the 2019/20 football season would be nonsense," he added. "Handing over the trophy at any point where clubs were forced to give up would feel morally correct."

Brighton and Hove Albion chief executive Paul Barber said if the season were to be "frozen" it would be unjust on Liverpool.

"Everybody in the game appreciates what a fantastic season they've had and what a wonderful team they are," he told the BBC.

"But equally it would be unjust for teams to be relegated when there are still eight, nine, ten games to play of the Premier League."

But West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady said if the fixtures could not be completed, the only fair solution would be to declare the season "null and void".

Writing in the Sun, Brady, whose club are just two places above the relegation zone, said: "Who knows who would have gone down or come up if the games have not actually been played in full?

"A huge blow to Liverpool, who might be robbed of their first title in 30 years."

Nobody knows when football will return but, when it finally does, many in the game hope Liverpool are given the chance to complete their long journey back to the top.

Liverpool could have been crowned Premier League champions on Monday for the first time in a generation. Instead, the stadium will be silent and the streets empty.

Liverpool could have been crowned Premier League champions on Monday for the first time in a generation. Instead, the stadium will be silent and the streets empty. Jurgen Klopp's team needed Manchester City to lose to Burnley on Saturday to give them a chance to seal the deal at their local rivals Everton two days later. Also read: Champions League: Atletico Madrid come from behind to knock-out Liverpool from Round of 16 Regardless of whether it would have happened at Goodison Park or over the coming weeks, their first top-flight title for 30 years was a mere formality. But now fans are wondering when, or even if, they will be crowned champions after the coronavirus laid waste to the global sporting calendar. The message coming from Liverpool is that there are more important issues than football to talk about, even with the club tantalisingly close to glory. "I've said before that football always seems the most important of the least important things," Klopp said in a statement on Friday. "Today, football and football matches really aren't important at all. "If it's a choice between football and the good of the wider society, it's no contest. Really, it isn't." Klopp's stance won him the support of World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who thanked him for his "powerful message". Liverpool supporters, desperate to reclaim their position at the pinnacle of the English game, agree with their German manager, saying the pandemic overshadows football. Supporters' union Spirit of Shankly is focusing on the damaging fallout from the COVID-19 virus. "In talks with @lfc we asked for assurances that non-playing staff will not lose their pay as a consequence of shifts being cancelled," it said in a statement. "We also need to keep in mind those most vulnerable. Cancelling football games means (foodbanks) will be hit hard." Liverpool have stumbled in recent weeks, knocked out of the Champions League by Atletico Madrid and dumped out of the FA Cup by Chelsea. But they have been peerless in the Premier League, leaving their rivals in their wake to race 25 points clear of defending champions Manchester City. With Alisson Becker in goal, Virgil van Dijk marshalling the defence and their devastating front three of Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, Klopp's men have been irresistible. Paul Hayward, writing in the Daily Telegraph, said Liverpool should be crowned champions for the 19th time even if no more games are played. "If a season ends too soon, its natural winning line is the point it reached before the halt was called: emphatically so, 29 games into a 38-match campaign, which is a respectable distance," he wrote. 'Voiding' the 2019/20 football season would be nonsense," he added. "Handing over the trophy at any point where clubs were forced to give up would feel morally correct." Brighton and Hove Albion chief executive Paul Barber said if the season were to be "frozen" it would be unjust on Liverpool. "Everybody in the game appreciates what a fantastic season they've had and what a wonderful team they are," he told the BBC. "But equally it would be unjust for teams to be relegated when there are still eight, nine, ten games to play of the Premier League." But West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady said if the fixtures could not be completed, the only fair solution would be to declare the season "null and void". Writing in the Sun, Brady, whose club are just two places above the relegation zone, said: "Who knows who would have gone down or come up if the games have not actually been played in full? "A huge blow to Liverpool, who might be robbed of their first title in 30 years." Nobody knows when football will return but, when it finally does, many in the game hope Liverpool are given the chance to complete their long journey back to the top.

Liverpool left to wait and wonder after coronavirus strikes

FIFA has recommended that all international matches scheduled to be played in March and April be postponed because of the coronavirus and said that clubs would not be obliged to release players for any games that go ahead.

Also read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/south-america-asks-fifa-to-delay-world-cup-qualifiers-due-to-coronavirus-285853">South America asks FIFA to delay World Cup qualifiers due to coronavirus</a>

The South American and Asian World Cup qualifiers which were due to be played have already been postponed. However, European body UEFA has not yet called off the Euro 2020 playoff matches which involve a total of 16 teams.

Also read:&nbsp; <a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/cfa-proposes-club-world-cup-to-be-held-on-june-17-next-year-fifa-to-decide-273153">China proposes Club World Cup to be held in June 17 next year; FIFA to decide</a>

Several of the teams involved in those games have already asked for postponements and the matches would not be viable without club co-operation. UEFA will stage a meeting on Tuesday where a decision is likely to be taken.

FIFA said that holding matches under current circumstances could present health risks to the players and the public.

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"It would also, most likely, compromise the sporting integrity of such matches insofar as certain teams may be deprived of their best squads whilst others may not," said FIFA.

"To avoid any unnecessary health risks and also situations of potential sporting unfairness, we, therefore, recommend that all international matches previously scheduled to take place in March and April should now be postponed."

It said that "the general football rules which normally oblige clubs to release players for national team matches will not apply for the up-coming international windows in March/April."

FIFA said it would study the possibilities for re-scheduling with the continental confederations, players and clubs. It said that "appropriate solutions will be found to allow the matches to take place in due course and with minimal disruption" provided there was goodwill and flexibility on all sides.

&nbsp;

FIFA has recommended that all international matches scheduled to be played in March and April be postponed because of the coronavirus and said that clubs would not be obliged to release players for any games that go ahead.

FIFA has recommended that all international matches scheduled to be played in March and April be postponed because of the coronavirus and said that clubs would not be obliged to release players for any games that go ahead. Also read: South America asks FIFA to delay World Cup qualifiers due to coronavirus The South American and Asian World Cup qualifiers which were due to be played have already been postponed. However, European body UEFA has not yet called off the Euro 2020 playoff matches which involve a total of 16 teams. Also read: China proposes Club World Cup to be held in June 17 next year; FIFA to decide Several of the teams involved in those games have already asked for postponements and the matches would not be viable without club co-operation. UEFA will stage a meeting on Tuesday where a decision is likely to be taken. FIFA said that holding matches under current circumstances could present health risks to the players and the public. × "It would also, most likely, compromise the sporting integrity of such matches insofar as certain teams may be deprived of their best squads whilst others may not," said FIFA. "To avoid any unnecessary health risks and also situations of potential sporting unfairness, we, therefore, recommend that all international matches previously scheduled to take place in March and April should now be postponed." It said that "the general football rules which normally oblige clubs to release players for national team matches will not apply for the up-coming international windows in March/April." FIFA said it would study the possibilities for re-scheduling with the continental confederations, players and clubs. It said that "appropriate solutions will be found to allow the matches to take place in due course and with minimal disruption" provided there was goodwill and flexibility on all sides.

FIFA recommends March, April internationals be postponed

South America's football federations asked FIFA on Wednesday to delay their qualifying matches for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar because of the global new coronavirus pandemic.

"The South American teams risk not being able to count on players they have picked and who play in Europe because they, arriving from countries with a high level of contagion, could be placed in quarantine," said a letter from CONMEBOL, South American football's governing body, to FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura. Qualifying matches are due to begin on March 26.

The letter said it expressed the position of its 10 members: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela.

The letter said they "have asked CONMEBOL to place for consideration by FIFA the request to postpone the start of the World Cup qualifiers."

Many of the South American players selected for their national sides play in Europe, where the deadly new coronavirus is rapidly spreading.

Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni has picked six players based in Italy, where the virus has killed at least 827 people in just over two weeks.

The new coronavirus has already disrupted numerous major sporting events worldwide, including Italy's Serie A football whose matches are suspended.

South America's football federations asked FIFA on Wednesday to delay their qualifying matches for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar because of the global new coronavirus pandemic.

South America's football federations asked FIFA on Wednesday to delay their qualifying matches for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar because of the global new coronavirus pandemic. "The South American teams risk not being able to count on players they have picked and who play in Europe because they, arriving from countries with a high level of contagion, could be placed in quarantine," said a letter from CONMEBOL, South American football's governing body, to FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura. Qualifying matches are due to begin on March 26. The letter said it expressed the position of its 10 members: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela. The letter said they "have asked CONMEBOL to place for consideration by FIFA the request to postpone the start of the World Cup qualifiers." Many of the South American players selected for their national sides play in Europe, where the deadly new coronavirus is rapidly spreading. Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni has picked six players based in Italy, where the virus has killed at least 827 people in just over two weeks. The new coronavirus has already disrupted numerous major sporting events worldwide, including Italy's Serie A football whose matches are suspended.

South America asks FIFA to delay World Cup qualifiers due to coronavirus

Nothing ever seems to go to plan in the Champions League for Paris Saint-Germain, whose bid to avoid yet another exit in the first knockout round against Borussia Dortmund will be played out before an empty stadium on Wednesday.

After Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Co lost 2-1 to an Erling Haaland-inspired Dortmund before a crowd of 80,000 in Germany last month, PSG discovered on Monday the second leg of their last-16 tie must be played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Estimates put the financial hit to Qatar-owned PSG of playing the game without the presence of nearly 50,000 fans at the Parc des Princes in the region of six million euros ($6.9 million), while the president of the club's Ultras fans group has called on supporters to gather outside the stadium instead.

However, it is still possible the strange atmosphere will work in the home team's favour, removing some of the immense pressure on them.

Agitated supporters are restless at the thought of their team -- despite all the Qatari investment -- going out of the Champions League in the last 16 for the fourth year running.

Following the first-leg defeat, one banner targeted captain Thiago Silva and their two superstar forwards, asking: "Silva, Mbappe, Neymar, afraid of winning? Show some balls."

While PSG's record in France, where they are on course for a seventh Ligue 1 title in eight seasons, is excellent, it is also almost irrelevant. This is a club that begs to be judged on its performance in Europe.

They are the fifth-richest club in the world in the most recent Deloitte Football Money League, with 636 million euros in revenue last season, behind only Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Bayern Munich.

However, they have fallen at this hurdle in each of the last three seasons, often in farcical fashion.

In 2017 there was the capitulation in Barcelona, a 6-1 defeat following a 4-0 first-leg win. They then spent over 400 million euros to make Neymar and Mbappe the two most expensive signings in the world, but the Brazilian missed the second leg of the 2018 defeat by Madrid due to injury and then sat out both legs of an improbable exit to Manchester United last year.

In eight years since the Qatari takeover, PSG have beaten just three teams in Champions League knockout ties: Valencia, Bayer Leverkusen and Chelsea (twice).

In a recent interview with Canal Plus, sporting director Leonardo tried to take pressure off Thomas Tuchel's team before the Dortmund tie.

"It's not life or death. If we lose we will try again next year," he insisted. "We need to stop all the negativity. We have a fantastic team and fantastic players."

Nevertheless, it is worth pondering how what is essentially a vanity project can continue to be credible if PSG keep on losing the games that really matter.

The need to beat Dortmund is therefore critical, even in these mitigating circumstances, and the futures of both Neymar and Mbappe, forever linked to Real Madrid, could depend on it.

If they do reach a first quarter-final since 2016, the weight off their shoulders will be huge and might well be replaced by a realisation that winning the trophy for the first time is a real possibility.

Coach Tuchel is under contract until 2021 but, just like Unai Emery and Laurent Blanc before him, it is hard to see how he would survive another disappointing European showing.

Tuchel is also under pressure after a decision to radically change his team's formation for the first leg backfired badly.

He needs a big performance from Neymar, who wanted to leave last summer rather than stick around for a third season in Paris but was poor in Dortmund. Tuchel also needs Mbappe, scorer of 30 goals this season, to deliver on the night.

"He struggled against Dortmund. His reaction since then has been astounding, in every training session. He is decisive and he is in great form," Tuchel said recently, and he will hope that form continues at an eerily empty stadium on Wednesday.

Nothing ever seems to go to plan in the Champions League for Paris Saint-Germain, whose bid to avoid yet another exit in the first knockout round against Borussia Dortmund will be played out before an empty stadium on Wednesday.

Nothing ever seems to go to plan in the Champions League for Paris Saint-Germain, whose bid to avoid yet another exit in the first knockout round against Borussia Dortmund will be played out before an empty stadium on Wednesday. After Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Co lost 2-1 to an Erling Haaland-inspired Dortmund before a crowd of 80,000 in Germany last month, PSG discovered on Monday the second leg of their last-16 tie must be played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus outbreak. Estimates put the financial hit to Qatar-owned PSG of playing the game without the presence of nearly 50,000 fans at the Parc des Princes in the region of six million euros ($6.9 million), while the president of the club's Ultras fans group has called on supporters to gather outside the stadium instead. However, it is still possible the strange atmosphere will work in the home team's favour, removing some of the immense pressure on them. Agitated supporters are restless at the thought of their team -- despite all the Qatari investment -- going out of the Champions League in the last 16 for the fourth year running. Following the first-leg defeat, one banner targeted captain Thiago Silva and their two superstar forwards, asking: "Silva, Mbappe, Neymar, afraid of winning? Show some balls." While PSG's record in France, where they are on course for a seventh Ligue 1 title in eight seasons, is excellent, it is also almost irrelevant. This is a club that begs to be judged on its performance in Europe. They are the fifth-richest club in the world in the most recent Deloitte Football Money League, with 636 million euros in revenue last season, behind only Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Bayern Munich. However, they have fallen at this hurdle in each of the last three seasons, often in farcical fashion. In 2017 there was the capitulation in Barcelona, a 6-1 defeat following a 4-0 first-leg win. They then spent over 400 million euros to make Neymar and Mbappe the two most expensive signings in the world, but the Brazilian missed the second leg of the 2018 defeat by Madrid due to injury and then sat out both legs of an improbable exit to Manchester United last year. In eight years since the Qatari takeover, PSG have beaten just three teams in Champions League knockout ties: Valencia, Bayer Leverkusen and Chelsea (twice). In a recent interview with Canal Plus, sporting director Leonardo tried to take pressure off Thomas Tuchel's team before the Dortmund tie. "It's not life or death. If we lose we will try again next year," he insisted. "We need to stop all the negativity. We have a fantastic team and fantastic players." Nevertheless, it is worth pondering how what is essentially a vanity project can continue to be credible if PSG keep on losing the games that really matter. The need to beat Dortmund is therefore critical, even in these mitigating circumstances, and the futures of both Neymar and Mbappe, forever linked to Real Madrid, could depend on it. If they do reach a first quarter-final since 2016, the weight off their shoulders will be huge and might well be replaced by a realisation that winning the trophy for the first time is a real possibility. Coach Tuchel is under contract until 2021 but, just like Unai Emery and Laurent Blanc before him, it is hard to see how he would survive another disappointing European showing. Tuchel is also under pressure after a decision to radically change his team's formation for the first leg backfired badly. He needs a big performance from Neymar, who wanted to leave last summer rather than stick around for a third season in Paris but was poor in Dortmund. Tuchel also needs Mbappe, scorer of 30 goals this season, to deliver on the night. "He struggled against Dortmund. His reaction since then has been astounding, in every training session. He is decisive and he is in great form," Tuchel said recently, and he will hope that form continues at an eerily empty stadium on Wednesday.

Champions League: PSG under pressure against Dortmund to keep Mbappe, Neymar project on track

Steven Gerrard moved Tuesday to quell speculation about his future as manager of Rangers following last weekend's Scottish Cup defeat by Hearts by insisting he was "ready to go again".

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steven-gerrard-hails-liverpool-captain-jordan-henderson-for-rising-above-criticism-to-win-champions-league-224243"> Steven Gerrard hails Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson for rising above criticism to win Champions League</a>

After the 1-0 loss at Tynecastle on Saturday, a downbeat Gerrard said it was "the lowest I felt since I came into the job by a long way".

The Liverpool great also said "I just need to think", with Rangers facing the prospect of another season without a trophy.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpool-great-gerrard-calls-time-on-career-9312">Football: Liverpool great Gerrard calls time on career</a>

But speaking ahead of Wednesday's home match against Hamilton, Gerrard insisted he was staying at Ibrox.

Asked if he had thought about his future with Rangers, the former England midfielder replied: "Long term? No, no.

"I'm OK, good, ready for the next challenge which is Hamilton tomorrow.

"From the end of the game at the weekend which was bitterly disappointing, I have done a real lot of thinking to myself and shared those thoughts with people around me and I am ready to go again."

Gerrard's contract with the Glasgow giants runs until 2024 and he said he intended to honour that deal.

"I'm in. I've signed up for something here. I'm in, I'm all in," Gerrard insisted. "I always knew there was going to be periods like this that were tough, real setbacks."

Hearts' Oliver Bozanic scored the only goal of the Cup tie to put the spotlight on Gerrard's decision to drop top scorer Alfredo Morelos for disciplinary reasons.

Morelos was suspended for Rangers' 1-0 win in Braga on Wednesday and was given permission to fly back to Colombia, but returned to Glasgow late.

Gerrard said Tuesday that Morelos had accepted his punishment, which would remain private, and would be available to face Hamilton.

"It is important that we move on from these situations, it is dealt with strongly, which it has been and we move forward," Gerrard explained.

"Is he going to be perfect? No. Is he going to make mistakes and frustrate me from time to time, possibly.

"But I need to make sure I do the right thing for him and the club in this situation and that's what I felt I have done," he added.

Steven Gerrard moved Tuesday to quell speculation about his future as manager of Rangers following last weekend's Scottish Cup defeat by Hearts by insisting he was "ready to go again".

Steven Gerrard moved Tuesday to quell speculation about his future as manager of Rangers following last weekend's Scottish Cup defeat by Hearts by insisting he was "ready to go again". Also read: Steven Gerrard hails Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson for rising above criticism to win Champions League After the 1-0 loss at Tynecastle on Saturday, a downbeat Gerrard said it was "the lowest I felt since I came into the job by a long way". The Liverpool great also said "I just need to think", with Rangers facing the prospect of another season without a trophy. Also read: Football: Liverpool great Gerrard calls time on career But speaking ahead of Wednesday's home match against Hamilton, Gerrard insisted he was staying at Ibrox. Asked if he had thought about his future with Rangers, the former England midfielder replied: "Long term? No, no. "I'm OK, good, ready for the next challenge which is Hamilton tomorrow. "From the end of the game at the weekend which was bitterly disappointing, I have done a real lot of thinking to myself and shared those thoughts with people around me and I am ready to go again." Gerrard's contract with the Glasgow giants runs until 2024 and he said he intended to honour that deal. "I'm in. I've signed up for something here. I'm in, I'm all in," Gerrard insisted. "I always knew there was going to be periods like this that were tough, real setbacks." Hearts' Oliver Bozanic scored the only goal of the Cup tie to put the spotlight on Gerrard's decision to drop top scorer Alfredo Morelos for disciplinary reasons. Morelos was suspended for Rangers' 1-0 win in Braga on Wednesday and was given permission to fly back to Colombia, but returned to Glasgow late. Gerrard said Tuesday that Morelos had accepted his punishment, which would remain private, and would be available to face Hamilton. "It is important that we move on from these situations, it is dealt with strongly, which it has been and we move forward," Gerrard explained. "Is he going to be perfect? No. Is he going to make mistakes and frustrate me from time to time, possibly. "But I need to make sure I do the right thing for him and the club in this situation and that's what I felt I have done," he added.

Steven Gerrard all set on staying at Rangers

Chelsea's defender Antonio Rudiger says "racism has won" after the London police said that they did not find any evidence to back the German footballer's claim.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fc-porto-striker-moussa-marega-leaves-ground-after-racist-chants-281359"> FC Porto striker Moussa Marega leaves ground after racist chants</a>

Rudiger reported that he was racially abused during the match with Tottenham on December 22, but an investigation conducted by Spurs proved "inconclusive" and police could find no evidence to support the complaint.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-antonio-rudiger-wants-swift-action-against-alleged-racist-abusers-269639">Chelsea's Antonio Rudiger wants swift action on racist taunt during Tottenham match</a>

The 26-year-old told german-based sports broadcaster:&nbsp; "Racism has won. They want to make us believe, 'You have no voice'. That's how I see it. Then also thanks to the media, who naturally pushed it that way, nobody was found and such things, the case is closed...and that's why you get booed in the end because you raise your voice. So I say: racism has won."

"They never get punished and in the end, I'm the scapegoat. I won't give up, I'll never stop raising my voice. I'll always raise my voice, but concerning this, I'm alone," he added.

Antonio Rudiger, though he was disheartened but has vowed to continue his fight against the racist chants and will not be silenced and has pledged to make his voice heard.

"It is a catastrophe. One day my child will highly probably suffer because of the way we are today," Rudiger said.

&nbsp;

Chelsea's defender Antonio Rudiger says "racism has won" after the London police said that they did not find any evidence to back the German footballer's claim. Also read: FC Porto striker Moussa Marega leaves ground after racist chants Rudiger reported that he was racially abused during the match with Tottenham on December 22, but an investigation conducted by Spurs proved "inconclusive" and police could find no evidence to support the complaint.

Chelsea's defender Antonio Rudiger says "racism has won" after the London police said that they did not find any evidence to back the German footballer's claim. Also read: FC Porto striker Moussa Marega leaves ground after racist chants Rudiger reported that he was racially abused during the match with Tottenham on December 22, but an investigation conducted by Spurs proved "inconclusive" and police could find no evidence to support the complaint. Also read: Chelsea's Antonio Rudiger wants swift action on racist taunt during Tottenham match The 26-year-old told german-based sports broadcaster: "Racism has won. They want to make us believe, 'You have no voice'. That's how I see it. Then also thanks to the media, who naturally pushed it that way, nobody was found and such things, the case is closed...and that's why you get booed in the end because you raise your voice. So I say: racism has won." "They never get punished and in the end, I'm the scapegoat. I won't give up, I'll never stop raising my voice. I'll always raise my voice, but concerning this, I'm alone," he added. Antonio Rudiger, though he was disheartened but has vowed to continue his fight against the racist chants and will not be silenced and has pledged to make his voice heard. "It is a catastrophe. One day my child will highly probably suffer because of the way we are today," Rudiger said.

Antonio Rudiger says 'Racism won' as London police fail to find evidence

Anthony Martial's crucial away for Manchester United helped Red Devils draw the game with Belgium's Club Brugge on Thursday in the first leg of their Europa League last 32 fixture in Bruges, Belgium.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-lampard-asks-for-chelsea-fight-after-smash-and-grab-manchester-united-defeat-281237">Premier League: Lampard asks for Chelsea fight after smash and grab Manchester United defeat</a>

Club Brugge's Emmanuel Dennis' lob helped club lead in the first 15 minutes of the game. The Nigerian forward struck from 30 yards to give the Belgian league leaders a good start.&nbsp;

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Anthony Martial equalised for the English club before the halftime whistle. Scores remained the same till the final whistle.&nbsp;

"It was a difficult game against a well-organised team, under difficult conditions. I don't think it was one of the best games anyone has seen," said United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Manchester United manager was hopeful about the reverse fixture, he said: "It was a bit sloppy in terms of concentration but conditions with the pitch and ball make it hard. We got an away goal, we got a draw and we're at home next week. Hopefully, we can finish the job."

Solskjaer made six changes after their win over Chelsea on Monday.&nbsp;

Odion Ighalo started from the bench. He came in as the substitution for Anthony Martial.

Spanish Club Getafe defeated last season's Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;semi-finalists Ajax 2-0 in Spain with the help of Brazilian duo Deyverson and Kenedy goals.

Christian Eriksen scored&nbsp;his first Inter Milan goal in a 2-0 win away to Ludogorets of Bulgaria. Romelu Lukaku scored the second goal.

Five-time Europa winners Sevilla's&nbsp;82nd-minute equaliser from January arrival Youssef En-Nesyri&nbsp;salvaged a 1-1 draw on&nbsp;Romanian outfit Cluj.

Meanwhile, Japanese midfielder Daichi Kamada scored a hat-trick as Eintracht Frankfurt defeated Salzburg 4-1.

(With inputs from AFP)

Anthony Martial's crucial away for Manchester United helped Red Devils draw the game with Belgium's Club Brugge on Thursday in the first leg of their Europa League last 32 fixture in Bruges, Belgium.

Anthony Martial's crucial away for Manchester United helped Red Devils draw the game with Belgium's Club Brugge on Thursday in the first leg of their Europa League last 32 fixture in Bruges, Belgium. Also read: Premier League: Lampard asks for Chelsea fight after smash and grab Manchester United defeat Club Brugge's Emmanuel Dennis' lob helped club lead in the first 15 minutes of the game. The Nigerian forward struck from 30 yards to give the Belgian league leaders a good start. Ole’s post-match thoughts on our #UEL round-of-32 first leg 💬 #MUFC pic.twitter.com/noJ5eiNorb — Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 20, 2020 × Anthony Martial equalised for the English club before the halftime whistle. Scores remained the same till the final whistle. "It was a difficult game against a well-organised team, under difficult conditions. I don't think it was one of the best games anyone has seen," said United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Manchester United manager was hopeful about the reverse fixture, he said: "It was a bit sloppy in terms of concentration but conditions with the pitch and ball make it hard. We got an away goal, we got a draw and we're at home next week. Hopefully, we can finish the job." Solskjaer made six changes after their win over Chelsea on Monday. Odion Ighalo started from the bench. He came in as the substitution for Anthony Martial. Spanish Club Getafe defeated last season's Champions League semi-finalists Ajax 2-0 in Spain with the help of Brazilian duo Deyverson and Kenedy goals. Christian Eriksen scored his first Inter Milan goal in a 2-0 win away to Ludogorets of Bulgaria. Romelu Lukaku scored the second goal. Five-time Europa winners Sevilla's 82nd-minute equaliser from January arrival Youssef En-Nesyri salvaged a 1-1 draw on Romanian outfit Cluj. Meanwhile, Japanese midfielder Daichi Kamada scored a hat-trick as Eintracht Frankfurt defeated Salzburg 4-1. (With inputs from AFP)

UEFA Europa League: Martial's goal helps Man Utd draw match against Club Brugge

Jose Mourinho's Tottenham Hotspurs has lost its star players to injury. Their star striker Harry Kane has bowed out for the rest of the season due to hamstring injury. &nbsp;

Son Heung-min missed out on Champions League fixture following a right-arm fracture. Mourinho said he does not expect Son to feature again this season after the South Korean fractured his right arm in Sunday's 3-2 win at Aston Villa.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-werners-penalty-gives-rb-leipzig-win-at-spurs-281703" hreflang="en">Champions League: Werner's penalty gives RB Leipzig win at Spurs</a>

Jose Mourinho was left worried after a poor performance against RB Leipzig in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16.&nbsp;

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ℹ️ Leipzig win their 1st European game against an English club...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/any6fsD1Sh">pic.twitter.com/any6fsD1Sh</a>
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"We are in a very difficult situation," said Mourinho. "What worries me is this is going to be the situation until the end of the season."

In the previous year's Champions League, Spurs beat the odds and defeated Manchester City and Ajax to reach the finals, but Leipzig's performance last night could have shattered the English club's dream to lift the European Cup.&nbsp;

Spurs captain and goalkeeper Hugo Lloris's valiant saves in the match earned him the Man of the Match award and looks like a ray of hope for Spurs for the reverse fixtures to qualify for the Quarterfinals.&nbsp;

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Tottenham captain Hugo Lloris claims <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLMOTM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLMOTM</a> award! 🙌⁣ 
⁣ 
👉 He'll be one of four players in tonight's vote where you crown Player of the Week 👑 <a href="https://t.co/hkqyioa4zH">pic.twitter.com/hkqyioa4zH</a>
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Tottenham faces a big challenge of winning the away fixture against RB Leipzig despite being hit with a chain of injuries, to qualify for the UEFA Champions League Quarterfinals.

(With inputs from AFP)

Jose Mourinho's Tottenham Hotspurs has lost its star players to injury. Their star striker Harry Kane has bowed out for the rest of the season due to hamstring injury.

Jose Mourinho's Tottenham Hotspurs has lost its star players to injury. Their star striker Harry Kane has bowed out for the rest of the season due to hamstring injury. Son Heung-min missed out on Champions League fixture following a right-arm fracture. Mourinho said he does not expect Son to feature again this season after the South Korean fractured his right arm in Sunday's 3-2 win at Aston Villa. Also read: Champions League: Werner's penalty gives RB Leipzig win at Spurs Jose Mourinho was left worried after a poor performance against RB Leipzig in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16. ℹ️ Leipzig win their 1st European game against an English club...#UCL pic.twitter.com/any6fsD1Sh — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 19, 2020 × "We are in a very difficult situation," said Mourinho. "What worries me is this is going to be the situation until the end of the season." In the previous year's Champions League, Spurs beat the odds and defeated Manchester City and Ajax to reach the finals, but Leipzig's performance last night could have shattered the English club's dream to lift the European Cup. Spurs captain and goalkeeper Hugo Lloris's valiant saves in the match earned him the Man of the Match award and looks like a ray of hope for Spurs for the reverse fixtures to qualify for the Quarterfinals. Tottenham captain Hugo Lloris claims #UCLMOTM award! 🙌⁣ ⁣ 👉 He'll be one of four players in tonight's vote where you crown Player of the Week 👑 pic.twitter.com/hkqyioa4zH — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 19, 2020 × Tottenham faces a big challenge of winning the away fixture against RB Leipzig despite being hit with a chain of injuries, to qualify for the UEFA Champions League Quarterfinals. (With inputs from AFP)

Injuries frustrate Jose Mourinho, Spurs continue to struggle without Kane and Son

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini hailed a performance his club will "remember forever" after the Italian side crushed Valencia 4-1 on Wednesday to take a giant step closer to reaching the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;quarter-finals for the first time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-simeones-atletico-stun-mighty-liverpool-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281473" hreflang="en">Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16</a>

Dutch wing-back Hans Hateboer scored twice on 16 and 62 minutes, sandwiching goals from Josip Ilicic and Remo Freuler.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-champions-league-ucl-teen-sensation-haalands-brace-down-neymars-psg-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281462" hreflang="en">Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles</a>

"This is an evening that we'll remember forever," said Gasperini. "It's an amazing result, full of emotion."

It was an extraordinary night for the side from Bergamo who travelled to the San Siro with over 40,000 of their fans as their home stadium 55km away does not meet&nbsp;UEFA&nbsp;regulations.

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This guy's on 🔥 right now! 
 
Well played, Josip Iličić 👏👏👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Mastercard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mastercard</a> <a href="https://t.co/wdyPJdhXTz">pic.twitter.com/wdyPJdhXTz</a>
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Denis Cheryshev pulled one back for Valencia in the first leg of the last-16 tie at the San Siro, the same stadium where the Spanish side lost 2001 final to Bayern Munich on penalties.

Valencia, seventh in La Liga, had finished top of their group after away wins over Ajax and Chelsea but were missing several key players through injury and suspension.

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Two-goal Atalanta hero Hans Hateboer wins <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLMOTM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLMOTM</a>! 👏👏👏 
 
👉 He'll be one of four players in tonight's vote where you crown Player of the Week 👑 <a href="https://t.co/WTn8BtoMhD">pic.twitter.com/WTn8BtoMhD</a>
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"It certainly complicates things a bit, it's a pretty overwhelming result, this 4-1," said Valencia coach Albert Celades.&nbsp;

"In the end, it doesn't reflect much what we saw on the pitch."

Atalanta's run comes despite losing their opening three&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;group games, before finishing second behind Manchester City.

"Three goals ahead is a nice reward," added Gasperini. "But there were a lot of dangerous situations, these are things we'll need to improve in Valencia.

"We are satisfied with this victory and above all with this advantage.

"Yesterday I would have signed to go to Valencia in the return game with a three-goal lead."

The tournament debutants dominated the first half with Mario Pasalic having their first chance on eight minutes, but Valencia goalkeeper Jaume Domenech pushed the ball over the bar at full stretch.

Hateboer opened the scoring just after the quarter of an hour, though, meeting a low Gomez cross to poke past Domenech for his first goal of the season.

Ferran Torres struck the post for Valencia on the half-hour mark, before Eliaquim Mangala missed a chance to connect with Goncalo Guedes' shot across the face of goal.

Marten de Roon and Gomez both fired over before Ilicic collected Pasalic's pass and drilled a powerful right-footed strike into the top corner three minutes before half-time.

Gasperini's side put the result on the night beyond any doubt 12 minutes after the break as Freuler curled in a magnificent third from the edge of the box.

Hateboer completed his brace five minutes later, ensuring that Atalanta's 12 goals in their first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;campaign have been scored by 10 different players.

Maxi Gomez had a golden chance to pull a goal back on the hour mark for the visitors but his weak effort was brilliantly saved by Pierluigi Gollini in the Atalanta goal.

Cheryshev came off the bench and immediately scored in the 66th minute, pouncing on a poor Jose Luis Palomino pass to give Valencia an away goal and a glimmer of hope to take into the second leg on March 10 at the Mestalla.

"We had opportunities and we didn't finish them," said Celades.

"The result is clear enough today, but it's not impossible (to turn around). Let's see what happens at Mestalla, let's play well in our stadium."

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini hailed a performance his club will "remember forever" after the Italian side crushed Valencia 4-1 on Wednesday to take a giant step closer to reaching the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time.

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini hailed a performance his club will "remember forever" after the Italian side crushed Valencia 4-1 on Wednesday to take a giant step closer to reaching the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time. Also read: Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16 Dutch wing-back Hans Hateboer scored twice on 16 and 62 minutes, sandwiching goals from Josip Ilicic and Remo Freuler. Also read: Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles "This is an evening that we'll remember forever," said Gasperini. "It's an amazing result, full of emotion." It was an extraordinary night for the side from Bergamo who travelled to the San Siro with over 40,000 of their fans as their home stadium 55km away does not meet UEFA regulations. This guy's on 🔥 right now! Well played, Josip Iličić 👏👏👏#UCL | @Mastercard pic.twitter.com/wdyPJdhXTz — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 19, 2020 × Denis Cheryshev pulled one back for Valencia in the first leg of the last-16 tie at the San Siro, the same stadium where the Spanish side lost 2001 final to Bayern Munich on penalties. Valencia, seventh in La Liga, had finished top of their group after away wins over Ajax and Chelsea but were missing several key players through injury and suspension. Two-goal Atalanta hero Hans Hateboer wins #UCLMOTM! 👏👏👏 👉 He'll be one of four players in tonight's vote where you crown Player of the Week 👑 pic.twitter.com/WTn8BtoMhD — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 19, 2020 × "It certainly complicates things a bit, it's a pretty overwhelming result, this 4-1," said Valencia coach Albert Celades. "In the end, it doesn't reflect much what we saw on the pitch." Atalanta's run comes despite losing their opening three Champions League group games, before finishing second behind Manchester City. "Three goals ahead is a nice reward," added Gasperini. "But there were a lot of dangerous situations, these are things we'll need to improve in Valencia. "We are satisfied with this victory and above all with this advantage. "Yesterday I would have signed to go to Valencia in the return game with a three-goal lead." The tournament debutants dominated the first half with Mario Pasalic having their first chance on eight minutes, but Valencia goalkeeper Jaume Domenech pushed the ball over the bar at full stretch. Hateboer opened the scoring just after the quarter of an hour, though, meeting a low Gomez cross to poke past Domenech for his first goal of the season. Ferran Torres struck the post for Valencia on the half-hour mark, before Eliaquim Mangala missed a chance to connect with Goncalo Guedes' shot across the face of goal. Marten de Roon and Gomez both fired over before Ilicic collected Pasalic's pass and drilled a powerful right-footed strike into the top corner three minutes before half-time. Gasperini's side put the result on the night beyond any doubt 12 minutes after the break as Freuler curled in a magnificent third from the edge of the box. Hateboer completed his brace five minutes later, ensuring that Atalanta's 12 goals in their first Champions League campaign have been scored by 10 different players. Maxi Gomez had a golden chance to pull a goal back on the hour mark for the visitors but his weak effort was brilliantly saved by Pierluigi Gollini in the Atalanta goal. Cheryshev came off the bench and immediately scored in the 66th minute, pouncing on a poor Jose Luis Palomino pass to give Valencia an away goal and a glimmer of hope to take into the second leg on March 10 at the Mestalla. "We had opportunities and we didn't finish them," said Celades. "The result is clear enough today, but it's not impossible (to turn around). Let's see what happens at Mestalla, let's play well in our stadium."

Champions League: Atalanta thrash Valencia on night to 'remember forever'

Porto forward Moussa Marega walked off the pitch after racist chants by the opposition fans during the match against Vitoria de Guimaraes on Sunday.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-lazio-fined-after-fans-racially-insult-balotelli-273162">Serie A: Lazio fined after fans racially insult Balotelli</a>

Marega left the pitch despite scoring the match-winning goal. FC Porto's players tried to console the Malian player, but the 28-year-old pushed his teammates aside to leave the ground.

Moussa Marega was playing against his former club as he played on loan for Vitoria during the 2016-2017 season. After his goal in the 60th minute, a section of the crowd threw objects at the player. According to reports, monkey chants were heard in the stadium.

"I felt like shit, it was a huge embarrassment for me, it affected me," Marega said.

"It started during the warm-up, but during the warm-up, it was just three people.

"Three people shouting monkey chants and racist insults I think it happens to everyone in the world of football.

"When it's just three people you don't care. When it's a whole stadium, it's impossible to stay on the pitch."

In the 69th minute, Moussa looked distressed and he was substituted after he walked off the field.

While walking out the Porto striker showed middle fingers to the section of the crowd as he was being booed off the ground.

"With all the insults I received, with the monkey chants targeted at me, I couldn't stay on the pitch," Marega told French radio station RMC.

"You can't stay like that and keep playing a match when people mock your skin colour."

Portuguese police are said to be looking into the matter, they said is taking the necessary steps to identify the suspects who committed the criminal offences and administrative offences.

Porto forward Moussa Marega walked off the pitch after racist chants by the opposition fans during the match against Vitoria de Guimaraes on Sunday. Also read- Serie A: Lazio fined after fans racially insult Balotelli Marega left the pitch despite scoring the match-winning goal.

Porto forward Moussa Marega walked off the pitch after racist chants by the opposition fans during the match against Vitoria de Guimaraes on Sunday. Also read- Serie A: Lazio fined after fans racially insult Balotelli Marega left the pitch despite scoring the match-winning goal. FC Porto's players tried to console the Malian player, but the 28-year-old pushed his teammates aside to leave the ground. Moussa Marega was playing against his former club as he played on loan for Vitoria during the 2016-2017 season. After his goal in the 60th minute, a section of the crowd threw objects at the player. According to reports, monkey chants were heard in the stadium. "I felt like shit, it was a huge embarrassment for me, it affected me," Marega said. "It started during the warm-up, but during the warm-up, it was just three people. "Three people shouting monkey chants and racist insults I think it happens to everyone in the world of football. "When it's just three people you don't care. When it's a whole stadium, it's impossible to stay on the pitch." In the 69th minute, Moussa looked distressed and he was substituted after he walked off the field. While walking out the Porto striker showed middle fingers to the section of the crowd as he was being booed off the ground. "With all the insults I received, with the monkey chants targeted at me, I couldn't stay on the pitch," Marega told French radio station RMC. "You can't stay like that and keep playing a match when people mock your skin colour." Portuguese police are said to be looking into the matter, they said is taking the necessary steps to identify the suspects who committed the criminal offences and administrative offences.

FC Porto striker Moussa Marega leaves ground after racist chants

Indian Super League's Chennaiyin FC registered a thumping win over ATK by 3-1 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Sunday. Chennai's hopes to qualifying for the Play-offs was boosted after Chennaiyin FC's Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri and Nerijus Valskis' goals.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-holders-bengaluru-fc-thrash-jamshedpur-2-0-273328">ISL: Holders Bengaluru FC thrash Jamshedpur 2-0</a>

Three-points off the match, Chennai based football team has almost bridged the gap with Mumbai City FC. There are now point away from the fourth-placed Mumbai team. ATK currently are at the second spot in the ISL points table. FC Goa tops the table.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiyinFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiyinFC</a> put <a href="https://twitter.com/ATKFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATKFC</a> under the pump tonight 👊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATKCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATKCFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroISL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroISL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsFootball</a> <a href="https://t.co/ryJXt4aFXf">pic.twitter.com/ryJXt4aFXf</a>
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Rafael Crivellaro smashed the first goal in the 7th minute after an assist from Eli Sabia and Andre Schembri (39') gave them a 2-0 lead before Roy Krishna pulled one back with his 14th goal of the season (40'). A late goal from Nerijus Valskis (90+4') sealed full points for the visitors.

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Design design ah problems will come and go, but scoring goals ain’t one of them. 😉 
 
Make that 1⃣3⃣ for the season! 💪🏼<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATKCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATKCFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AattamReloaded?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AattamReloaded</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OruKuttiKathai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OruKuttiKathai</a> <a href="https://t.co/dYXpQcV7Hq">pic.twitter.com/dYXpQcV7Hq</a>
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ATK's Prabir Das hit some dangerous strikes on the visiting Chennaiyin side to equal the score and steal two points but Nerijus Valskis' late strike deflated all the hopes and no strike by Das could see the back of the net.

Indian Super League's Chennaiyin FC registered a thumping win over ATK by 3-1 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Sunday. Chennai's hopes to qualifying for the Play-offs was boosted after Chennaiyin FC's Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri and Nerijus Valskis' goals.

Indian Super League's Chennaiyin FC registered a thumping win over ATK by 3-1 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Sunday. Chennai's hopes to qualifying for the Play-offs was boosted after Chennaiyin FC's Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri and Nerijus Valskis' goals. Also read- ISL: Holders Bengaluru FC thrash Jamshedpur 2-0 Three-points off the match, Chennai based football team has almost bridged the gap with Mumbai City FC. There are now point away from the fourth-placed Mumbai team. ATK currently are at the second spot in the ISL points table. FC Goa tops the table. .@ChennaiyinFC put @ATKFC under the pump tonight 👊#ATKCFC #HeroISL #LetsFootball pic.twitter.com/ryJXt4aFXf — Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) February 16, 2020 × Rafael Crivellaro smashed the first goal in the 7th minute after an assist from Eli Sabia and Andre Schembri (39') gave them a 2-0 lead before Roy Krishna pulled one back with his 14th goal of the season (40'). A late goal from Nerijus Valskis (90+4') sealed full points for the visitors. Design design ah problems will come and go, but scoring goals ain’t one of them. 😉 Make that 1⃣3⃣ for the season! 💪🏼#ATKCFC #AattamReloaded #OruKuttiKathai pic.twitter.com/dYXpQcV7Hq — Chennaiyin FC 🏆🏆 (@ChennaiyinFC) February 16, 2020 × ATK's Prabir Das hit some dangerous strikes on the visiting Chennaiyin side to equal the score and steal two points but Nerijus Valskis' late strike deflated all the hopes and no strike by Das could see the back of the net.

ISL: Chennaiyin FC crush ATK 3-1, keeps play-offs hope alive

Neymar Jr's possible return&nbsp;to Barcelona has been critically examined by Barca's former vice president Jordi Mestre.

The ex-Barcelona vice-president feels the Brazilian star's signing will help the team but will also impose a lot of&nbsp;conditions on the player.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../ligue-1-neymars-injury-forces-him-out-of- nantes-clash-278487">Ligue 1: Neymar's injury forces him out of Nantes clash</a>

Jordi Mestre said that the young footballer should forget his excuses&nbsp;for missing out games for his lavish birthday parties in Brazil if he gets&nbsp;transferred to Camp Nou. Jordi Mestre resigned from the team in July.&nbsp;

According to Jordi Mestre a lot of conditions might be put on the Brazilian forward following his return: "On sporting terms, he could come back but on a series of conditions. Firstly, PSG have to agree, then he would have to withdraw his lawsuit and acknowledge that he was in the wrong and after that, all the birthday parties in Brazil would have to stop."

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Happy birthday to me 🤙🏽🤪 thank for everything my God ❤️🙏🏽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Njr28?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Njr28</a> <a href="https://t.co/GeqzdhfIJW">pic.twitter.com/GeqzdhfIJW</a>
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The PSG star was recently ruled of the play due to an injury, interestingly this injury was struck some days around his birthday. He has skipped a fixture which fell on his birthday, three times in a row now.

All due to the same 'injury' problem. He has missed 60 games for the Paris side due to the injury since his arrival in 2017. That's 76 matches played and 60 matches missed. This has angered PSG's top brass level. He had also been in news last year for missing out a fixture because of his sister Rafaella's birthday for the fifth time in a row. The last match he played for PSG was on February 2 against Montpellier.&nbsp;

Neymar's return to Camp Nou has made rounds for quite some time. The PSG star joined his current French club after signing a record $242 million fee from the Catalonia Giants in 2017, but during the off-season, the 28-year-old Brazilian wanted out from the Paris Saint Germain.&nbsp;

Though the deal was not materialised the rumours have not rested as of now.&nbsp;

Barcelona are currently second to their arch-rivals Real Madrid in the La Liga points table, Lionel Messi has been doing all the goal-scoring for the team after Luis Suarez's injury. Neymar's signing could help Barca return to its glorious period of 'MSN' (Messi, Suarez, Neymar).&nbsp;

Neymar Jr's possible return to Barcelona has been critically examined by Barca's former vice president Jordi Mestre. The ex-Barcelona vice-president feels the Brazilian star's signing will help the team but will also impose a lot of conditions on the player.

Neymar Jr's possible return to Barcelona has been critically examined by Barca's former vice president Jordi Mestre. The ex-Barcelona vice-president feels the Brazilian star's signing will help the team but will also impose a lot of conditions on the player. Also read- Ligue 1: Neymar's injury forces him out of Nantes clash Jordi Mestre said that the young footballer should forget his excuses for missing out games for his lavish birthday parties in Brazil if he gets transferred to Camp Nou. Jordi Mestre resigned from the team in July. According to Jordi Mestre a lot of conditions might be put on the Brazilian forward following his return: "On sporting terms, he could come back but on a series of conditions. Firstly, PSG have to agree, then he would have to withdraw his lawsuit and acknowledge that he was in the wrong and after that, all the birthday parties in Brazil would have to stop." Happy birthday to me 🤙🏽🤪 thank for everything my God ❤️🙏🏽 #Njr28 pic.twitter.com/GeqzdhfIJW — Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) February 5, 2020 × The PSG star was recently ruled of the play due to an injury, interestingly this injury was struck some days around his birthday. He has skipped a fixture which fell on his birthday, three times in a row now. All due to the same 'injury' problem. He has missed 60 games for the Paris side due to the injury since his arrival in 2017. That's 76 matches played and 60 matches missed. This has angered PSG's top brass level. He had also been in news last year for missing out a fixture because of his sister Rafaella's birthday for the fifth time in a row. The last match he played for PSG was on February 2 against Montpellier. Neymar's return to Camp Nou has made rounds for quite some time. The PSG star joined his current French club after signing a record $242 million fee from the Catalonia Giants in 2017, but during the off-season, the 28-year-old Brazilian wanted out from the Paris Saint Germain. Though the deal was not materialised the rumours have not rested as of now. Barcelona are currently second to their arch-rivals Real Madrid in the La Liga points table, Lionel Messi has been doing all the goal-scoring for the team after Luis Suarez's injury. Neymar's signing could help Barca return to its glorious period of 'MSN' (Messi, Suarez, Neymar).

Neymar should bid farewell to his Brazilian parties if he wants Barca return: Jordi Mestre

Brazil's three-time World Cup winner Pele is "depressed"&nbsp;and is reluctant to leave his house, his son said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peles-last-number-10-brazil-jersey-sold-for-30000-euros-in-italy-266670">Pele's last Number 10 Brazil jersey sold for 30,000 euros in Italy</a>

In an interview given by his son to a Brazilian sports website, Edinho said: "He's embarrassed, he doesn't want to go out, be seen, or do practically anything that involves leaving the house. He is very shy, reclusive."

Pele, who will turn 80 this October has gone through hip replacement operation. He has made his recent appearances on a wheelchair. According to his son, he is "fragile" in terms of mobility.&nbsp;

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Today is 50 years of the thousandth goal of Pelé. And I just found out a beautiful tribute on the Internet. Pelé will make a thousand goals again, this time on the video games. Join it and share your goal using <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/eKingPel%C3%A9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#eKingPelé</a>. But I missed a goal from my friend Diego Maradona! <a href="https://t.co/O6e7uZr6qS">pic.twitter.com/O6e7uZr6qS</a>
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Edinho said: "He's very fragile to mobility. He had a hip replacement and didn't have ideal or adequate rehabilitation,".&nbsp;

Edinho went on to add that due to Pele's mobility problem, the football maestro has slipped into depression. He said: "He has this mobility problem and that has set off a kind of depression. Imagine, he's the King, he was always such an imposing figure and today he can't walk properly."

Pele has been the most prominent figure&nbsp;in football. In his career he scored a record 77 goals in 92 matches for the Brazilian&nbsp;team (1957-1971), he still is the country's leading goal scorer. He won FIFA World Cup in1958, 1962 and 1970.&nbsp;

Pele's goals for Santos FC is still a milestone on its own, he spent 18 years in the club and scored <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../lionel-messi-becomes-first-player-to-win-500- matches-in-spanish-football-277680">619 goals</a> in 638 matches. He joined New York Cosmos in 1975. He spent two seasons there, where he scored 31 goals in 56 matches.&nbsp;

He still holds the record for most hattricks, he has a total of 92 hattricks to his name and&nbsp;has scored 1,283 goals in his lifetime.

Brazil's three-time World Cup winner Pele is "depressed" and is reluctant to leave his house, his son said. Also read: Pele's last Number 10 Brazil jersey sold for 30,000 euros in Italy In an interview given by his son to a Brazilian sports website, Edinho said: "He's embarrassed, he doesn't want to go out, be seen, or do practically anything that involves leaving the house.

Brazil's three-time World Cup winner Pele is "depressed" and is reluctant to leave his house, his son said. Also read: Pele's last Number 10 Brazil jersey sold for 30,000 euros in Italy In an interview given by his son to a Brazilian sports website, Edinho said: "He's embarrassed, he doesn't want to go out, be seen, or do practically anything that involves leaving the house. He is very shy, reclusive." Pele, who will turn 80 this October has gone through hip replacement operation. He has made his recent appearances on a wheelchair. According to his son, he is "fragile" in terms of mobility. Today is 50 years of the thousandth goal of Pelé. And I just found out a beautiful tribute on the Internet. Pelé will make a thousand goals again, this time on the video games. Join it and share your goal using #eKingPelé. But I missed a goal from my friend Diego Maradona! pic.twitter.com/O6e7uZr6qS — Pelé (@Pele) November 19, 2019 × Edinho said: "He's very fragile to mobility. He had a hip replacement and didn't have ideal or adequate rehabilitation,". Edinho went on to add that due to Pele's mobility problem, the football maestro has slipped into depression. He said: "He has this mobility problem and that has set off a kind of depression. Imagine, he's the King, he was always such an imposing figure and today he can't walk properly." Pele has been the most prominent figure in football. In his career he scored a record 77 goals in 92 matches for the Brazilian team (1957-1971), he still is the country's leading goal scorer. He won FIFA World Cup in1958, 1962 and 1970. Pele's goals for Santos FC is still a milestone on its own, he spent 18 years in the club and scored 619 goals in 638 matches. He joined New York Cosmos in 1975. He spent two seasons there, where he scored 31 goals in 56 matches. He still holds the record for most hattricks, he has a total of 92 hattricks to his name and has scored 1,283 goals in his lifetime.

'Pele was always an imposing figure and today he can't walk properly': Edinho on father's depression

The United States will try to follow their women's World Cup triumph with Olympic gold after punching their ticket to the Tokyo Games on Friday with a 4-0 victory over Mexico.

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America’s Greatest Team. 
 
I said what I said. <a href="https://t.co/HKlq7F0125">pic.twitter.com/HKlq7F0125</a>
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Samantha Mewis scored twice and Rose Lavelle and Christen Press added a goal apiece as the United States secured one of two Olympic berths on offer in the semi-finals of the CONCACAF regional qualifier at Dignity&nbsp;Sports&nbsp;Park in Carson, California.

They'll face Canada in Sunday's tournament final, but the main objective has been achieved by both teams, with Canada securing their Tokyo berth with a 1-0 win over Costa Rica in the first semi-final on Friday.

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They've done it! <a href="https://twitter.com/CanadaSoccerEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CanadaSoccerEN</a> women are Tokyo bound! 
 
After defeating Costa Rica 1-0, <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamCanada?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TeamCanada</a> will make its fourth straight Olympic appearance 🙌🇨🇦 <a href="https://t.co/ypOaXC0tqY">pic.twitter.com/ypOaXC0tqY</a>
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The United States were heavy favourites against Mexico -- who were trying to get back to the Olympics for the first time since 2004.

But in Tokyo, the Americans will attempt to become the first nation to follow a World Cup triumph with an Olympic title. Past US World Cup-winning teams faltered in 2000 and 2016.

In Rio de Janeiro in 2016, the USA were stunned by Sweden in a quarter-final penalty shootout.

They'll get a chance at redemption after a dominant display against Mexico when Lavelle opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a left-footed blast from a pass by Megan Rapinoe.

Mewis doubled the lead in the 14th with a finish off Rapinoe's corner kick. Mewis made it 3-0 in the 67th and Press capped the scoring with a chip from close range in the 73rd.

Earlier, it was 18-year-old Jordyn Huitema who lifted Canada, scoring in the 72nd minute to ensure a return to the Olympics for the team that earned bronze in the 2012 London Games and the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Costa Rica, 37th in the FIFA world rankings, had kept the Canadians at bay with a disciplined defensive performance before Huitema, who plays her club football for Paris Saint-Germain, broke through.

She hit the post with a shot from a cross by teammate Deanne Rose, but the ball rebounded straight to her and she slotted it home for what proved the game-winner.

The United States will try to follow their women's World Cup triumph with Olympic gold after punching their ticket to the Tokyo Games on Friday with a 4-0 victory over Mexico.

The United States will try to follow their women's World Cup triumph with Olympic gold after punching their ticket to the Tokyo Games on Friday with a 4-0 victory over Mexico. America’s Greatest Team. I said what I said. pic.twitter.com/HKlq7F0125 — U.S. Soccer WNT (@USWNT) February 8, 2020 × Samantha Mewis scored twice and Rose Lavelle and Christen Press added a goal apiece as the United States secured one of two Olympic berths on offer in the semi-finals of the CONCACAF regional qualifier at Dignity Sports Park in Carson, California. They'll face Canada in Sunday's tournament final, but the main objective has been achieved by both teams, with Canada securing their Tokyo berth with a 1-0 win over Costa Rica in the first semi-final on Friday. They've done it! @CanadaSoccerEN women are Tokyo bound! After defeating Costa Rica 1-0, @TeamCanada will make its fourth straight Olympic appearance 🙌🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/ypOaXC0tqY — CBC Olympics (@CBCOlympics) February 8, 2020 × The United States were heavy favourites against Mexico -- who were trying to get back to the Olympics for the first time since 2004. But in Tokyo, the Americans will attempt to become the first nation to follow a World Cup triumph with an Olympic title. Past US World Cup-winning teams faltered in 2000 and 2016. In Rio de Janeiro in 2016, the USA were stunned by Sweden in a quarter-final penalty shootout. They'll get a chance at redemption after a dominant display against Mexico when Lavelle opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a left-footed blast from a pass by Megan Rapinoe. Mewis doubled the lead in the 14th with a finish off Rapinoe's corner kick. Mewis made it 3-0 in the 67th and Press capped the scoring with a chip from close range in the 73rd. Earlier, it was 18-year-old Jordyn Huitema who lifted Canada, scoring in the 72nd minute to ensure a return to the Olympics for the team that earned bronze in the 2012 London Games and the 2016 Rio Olympics. Costa Rica, 37th in the FIFA world rankings, had kept the Canadians at bay with a disciplined defensive performance before Huitema, who plays her club football for Paris Saint-Germain, broke through. She hit the post with a shot from a cross by teammate Deanne Rose, but the ball rebounded straight to her and she slotted it home for what proved the game-winner.

USA, Canada book Olympic women's football berths

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-first-to-get-200-million-followers-on-instagram-277492">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> has added another feather to his cap by scoring 50 goals, donning the Bianconeri jersey. He achieved this feat after netting twice in the match against Fiorentina.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-ronaldo-scores-for-ninth-game-in-row-as-penalty-double-lifts-juventus-278195">Serie A: Ronaldo scores for ninth game in row as penalty double lifts Juventus</a>

He scored twice via penalty. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner scored 50 goals in just 70 matches in the Serie A.&nbsp;Serie A leaders Juventus bounced back from their defeat to Napoli with a 3-0 win over Fiorentina.

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Good to get back to victories and happy to score again in our stadium!⚽⚽ 
Proud to reach 50 goals with the bianconeri shirt!💪🏽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/finoallafine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#finoallafine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/forzajuve?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#forzajuve</a> <a href="https://t.co/pzBrER9Uzt">pic.twitter.com/pzBrER9Uzt</a>
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Lazio moved second, five points behind the reigning champions after Serie A top scorer Ciro Immobile and Felipe Caicedo both scored a brace in a 5-1 win over rock bottom SPAL.

Ronaldo&nbsp;has been in a great form recently, he also became just the second Juve player in history to score in nine successive Serie A matches. It was first&nbsp;achieved&nbsp;by French player David Trezeguet in the October-December&nbsp;2005 season.

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🎯 50 Juventus goals for <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CR50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CR50</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@juventusfcen</a> <a href="https://t.co/Zx96Yq31Am">pic.twitter.com/Zx96Yq31Am</a>
— FIFA.com (@FIFAcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAcom/status/1223966921894264834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo's&nbsp;2020 began with a bang after he scored a hattrick and an assist against Cagliari.&nbsp;

The Portuguese legend has been the highest goal scorer for his national team, and his previous club Real Madrid. He had scored 450 times in 438 matches for the La Liga table-toppers.

Cristiano&nbsp;has taken 151 penalties in his career (these include shootouts too), out of which he has scored in 126 penalties and missed 25 of them with a&nbsp;success rate of&nbsp;83.4 per cent.&nbsp;

"Cristiano Ronaldo continues to score repeatedly and for him, it's important psychologically," said Sarri of the player who turns 35 next Wednesday.

Cristiano Ronaldo has added another feather to his cap by scoring 50 goals, donning the Bianconeri jersey. He achieved this feat after netting twice in the match against Fiorentina.

Cristiano Ronaldo has added another feather to his cap by scoring 50 goals, donning the Bianconeri jersey. He achieved this feat after netting twice in the match against Fiorentina. Also read- Serie A: Ronaldo scores for ninth game in row as penalty double lifts Juventus He scored twice via penalty. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner scored 50 goals in just 70 matches in the Serie A. Serie A leaders Juventus bounced back from their defeat to Napoli with a 3-0 win over Fiorentina. Good to get back to victories and happy to score again in our stadium!⚽⚽ Proud to reach 50 goals with the bianconeri shirt!💪🏽#finoallafine #forzajuve pic.twitter.com/pzBrER9Uzt — Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) February 2, 2020 × Lazio moved second, five points behind the reigning champions after Serie A top scorer Ciro Immobile and Felipe Caicedo both scored a brace in a 5-1 win over rock bottom SPAL. Ronaldo has been in a great form recently, he also became just the second Juve player in history to score in nine successive Serie A matches. It was first achieved by French player David Trezeguet in the October-December 2005 season. 🎯 50 Juventus goals for @Cristiano #CR50 | @juventusfcen pic.twitter.com/Zx96Yq31Am — FIFA.com (@FIFAcom) February 2, 2020 × Ronaldo's 2020 began with a bang after he scored a hattrick and an assist against Cagliari. The Portuguese legend has been the highest goal scorer for his national team, and his previous club Real Madrid. He had scored 450 times in 438 matches for the La Liga table-toppers. Cristiano has taken 151 penalties in his career (these include shootouts too), out of which he has scored in 126 penalties and missed 25 of them with a success rate of 83.4 per cent. "Cristiano Ronaldo continues to score repeatedly and for him, it's important psychologically," said Sarri of the player who turns 35 next Wednesday.

Cristiano Ronaldo achieves another milestone, scores 50 goals for Juventus

New Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire a victory on his debut on Saturday as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-rashford-sidelined-uniteds-solskjaer-eyes-signings-275370">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side</a> were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-hit-new-low-after-getting-defeated-by-burnley-276109">Premier League</a>. The result leaves United in sixth place, six points behind Chelsea who occupy the fourth Champions League spot, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Wolves </a>are seventh, level on 35 points with United. Sheffield United are a point better off in fifth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaers-man-utd-scrap-plans-to-set-training-camps-in-middle-east-amidst-high-tensions-274342">United </a>now have a two-week break before their crunch game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Feb. 17. Portugal international Fernandes, who joined United on Thursday from Sporting in a move which reportedly cost an initial 55 million euros ($61 million), was thrown straight into the starting midfield. The 25-year-old was heavily involved in United's build-up play, playing in an advanced role in the first half and then switching to a deeper holding role after the break.

<img alt="Premier League" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d18eba49-377a-4a06-b4d0-0db46f885320" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-02-02T125348.422.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Manchester United's Fred, Diogo Dalot and Jesse Lingard react (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

"Bruno is a top player," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hard-night-ahead-for-manchester-united-solskjaer-271952">Solskjaer</a>. "It's the first game. First half everyone was getting the ball into feet and Bruno is one of those who, when he gets into feet, he wants players moving in front of him and we didn't (do that). He'll be a top addition." Fernandes had a good opportunity just before the break with the ball falling to him invitingly but his well-struck effort was straight at compatriot Rui Patricio in the Wolves goal.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">FA cup: Solskjaer needs time to make lasting impact at Manchester United — Guardiola</a>

The midfielder tested the Wolves keeper with a long-range free-kick after the break and Juan Mata saw an effort flash just wide of the post. After Wolves striker Raul Jimenez tested David de Gea at the end of a swift counter-attack, Romain Saiss then missed a great chance, heading wide from inside the box. United could have snatched the points in stoppage time when Aaron Wan-Bissaka delivered a dangerous cross from the right but substitute Diogo Dalot's header was off target.

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo was satisfied with his team's effort."It was a good performance at Old Trafford and a good game for us. United are a good team. "It was balanced and both teams had chances and wanted to win. I'm happy with the performance," he said. 
&nbsp;

New Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire a victory on his debut on Saturday as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League.

New Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire a victory on his debut on Saturday as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League. The result leaves United in sixth place, six points behind Chelsea who occupy the fourth Champions League spot, while Wolves are seventh, level on 35 points with United. Sheffield United are a point better off in fifth. United now have a two-week break before their crunch game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Feb. 17. Portugal international Fernandes, who joined United on Thursday from Sporting in a move which reportedly cost an initial 55 million euros ($61 million), was thrown straight into the starting midfield. The 25-year-old was heavily involved in United's build-up play, playing in an advanced role in the first half and then switching to a deeper holding role after the break. [ Manchester United's Fred, Diogo Dalot and Jesse Lingard react (Courtesy: Reuters) ] "Bruno is a top player," said Solskjaer. "It's the first game. First half everyone was getting the ball into feet and Bruno is one of those who, when he gets into feet, he wants players moving in front of him and we didn't (do that). He'll be a top addition." Fernandes had a good opportunity just before the break with the ball falling to him invitingly but his well-struck effort was straight at compatriot Rui Patricio in the Wolves goal. Also Read: FA cup: Solskjaer needs time to make lasting impact at Manchester United — Guardiola The midfielder tested the Wolves keeper with a long-range free-kick after the break and Juan Mata saw an effort flash just wide of the post. After Wolves striker Raul Jimenez tested David de Gea at the end of a swift counter-attack, Romain Saiss then missed a great chance, heading wide from inside the box. United could have snatched the points in stoppage time when Aaron Wan-Bissaka delivered a dangerous cross from the right but substitute Diogo Dalot's header was off target. Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo was satisfied with his team's effort."It was a good performance at Old Trafford and a good game for us. United are a good team. "It was balanced and both teams had chances and wanted to win. I'm happy with the performance," he said.

Manchester United held by Wolves on Fernandes debut

Canadian forward Christine Sinclair became the all-time top scorer in international soccer, breaking the mark held by American Abby Wambach when she netted her 185th goal against St. Kitts and Nevis in south Texas on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/young-guns-shine-as-arsenal-move-into-fa-cup-fifth-round-277060" hreflang="en">Young guns shine as Arsenal move into FA Cup fifth round</a>

Sinclair, playing her 290th international, scored the milestone goal from close range in the 23rd minute of Canada's opening game at the CONCACAF Olympic qualifiers at H-E-B Park in Edinburg after tying the record with a seventh-minute penalty.

"Just unbelievable," Sinclair said on what it means to be soccer's most prolific goal scorer. "When I first started with the national team I could never have imagined standing here with the number of goals I've scored."

The 36-year-old Canadian captain opened the scoring when she scored from the spot and later tucked away an Adriana Leon cross with a right-footed shot from inside the box to make it 4-0 and take the record.

Sinclair left the game in the 47th minute and Canada ran out comfortable winners 11-0.

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A <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamCanada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamCanada</a> ⚽️ game where Christine Sinclair joined the history 📚🙌 
 
🇨🇦 defeats 🇰🇳 11-0 in their first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWOQ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWOQ</a> game 💪 
 
Read all about it 👉<a href="https://t.co/vdz4z0kIpJ">https://t.co/vdz4z0kIpJ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BellLetsTaIk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BellLetsTaIk</a> <a href="https://t.co/31Y4UpMmSE">pic.twitter.com/31Y4UpMmSE</a>
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"Christine: History is made. Your victory is our victory. We celebrate with you," Wambach, who amassed her 184 goals over 255 games, posted on her Twitter account shortly after Sinclair surpassed her total.

"And to every girl coming up in the Pack with a dream to achieve that which doesn't yet even exist: We believe in you. Your Pack is with you. And history awaits you."

Wambach, who retired in 2015 after a 15-year career, had sole possession of the goalscoring mark since 2013 when she broke fellow American Mia Hamm's record of 158.

Sinclair has been the backbone of the Canadian team since making her debut as a 16-year-old at the 2000 Algarve Cup where she scored her first international goal.

She has established herself as one of the best players in the women's game and has competed at two Olympics, including in 2012 where she was the tournament's leading scorer with six of Canada's 12 goals.

"We have watched her grow from a teenage star on the local grounds to an international superstar who is adored around the world," said Canada Soccer President Steven Reed.

CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani also offered congratulations and thanked Sinclair for her contribution to the sport.

"To have scored an all-time international record goal haul, and to still be going strong, is truly outstanding. Christine's achievements have made her an icon in Canada," said Montagliani.

"She transcends the sport and is a wonderful role model for people across the country."

Iranian great Ali Daei holds the men's international scoring record with 109 goals in 149 appearances.

Canadian forward Christine Sinclair became the all-time top scorer in international soccer, breaking the mark held by American Abby Wambach when she netted her 185th goal against St.

Canadian forward Christine Sinclair became the all-time top scorer in international soccer, breaking the mark held by American Abby Wambach when she netted her 185th goal against St. Kitts and Nevis in south Texas on Wednesday. Also read: Young guns shine as Arsenal move into FA Cup fifth round Sinclair, playing her 290th international, scored the milestone goal from close range in the 23rd minute of Canada's opening game at the CONCACAF Olympic qualifiers at H-E-B Park in Edinburg after tying the record with a seventh-minute penalty. "Just unbelievable," Sinclair said on what it means to be soccer's most prolific goal scorer. "When I first started with the national team I could never have imagined standing here with the number of goals I've scored." The 36-year-old Canadian captain opened the scoring when she scored from the spot and later tucked away an Adriana Leon cross with a right-footed shot from inside the box to make it 4-0 and take the record. Sinclair left the game in the 47th minute and Canada ran out comfortable winners 11-0. A #TeamCanada ⚽️ game where Christine Sinclair joined the history 📚🙌 🇨🇦 defeats 🇰🇳 11-0 in their first #CWOQ game 💪 Read all about it 👉https://t.co/vdz4z0kIpJ#BellLetsTaIk pic.twitter.com/31Y4UpMmSE — Team Canada (@TeamCanada) January 30, 2020 × "Christine: History is made. Your victory is our victory. We celebrate with you," Wambach, who amassed her 184 goals over 255 games, posted on her Twitter account shortly after Sinclair surpassed her total. "And to every girl coming up in the Pack with a dream to achieve that which doesn't yet even exist: We believe in you. Your Pack is with you. And history awaits you." Wambach, who retired in 2015 after a 15-year career, had sole possession of the goalscoring mark since 2013 when she broke fellow American Mia Hamm's record of 158. Sinclair has been the backbone of the Canadian team since making her debut as a 16-year-old at the 2000 Algarve Cup where she scored her first international goal. She has established herself as one of the best players in the women's game and has competed at two Olympics, including in 2012 where she was the tournament's leading scorer with six of Canada's 12 goals. "We have watched her grow from a teenage star on the local grounds to an international superstar who is adored around the world," said Canada Soccer President Steven Reed. CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani also offered congratulations and thanked Sinclair for her contribution to the sport. "To have scored an all-time international record goal haul, and to still be going strong, is truly outstanding. Christine's achievements have made her an icon in Canada," said Montagliani. "She transcends the sport and is a wonderful role model for people across the country." Iranian great Ali Daei holds the men's international scoring record with 109 goals in 149 appearances.

Football: Canadian Sinclair breaks international scoring record

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-win-bundesliga-title-for-seventh-successive-season-219687">Bayern Munich</a> fired an ominous warning to the rest of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-jadon-sancho-to-luka-jovic-five-rising-bundesliga-stars-of-201819-219452">Bundesliga </a>when they demolished fifth-placed Schalke 04 5-0 on Saturday to close the gap on leaders RB Leipzig to one point. Forward Robert Lewandowski set the Bavarians on their way by scoring his 21st league goal of the season in the sixth minute and, after they had two goals disallowed for offside, Thomas Mueller added the second just before halftime.

Leon Goretzka scored a brilliantly improvised third in the 50th minute before Thiago and Serge Gnabry added two more as Bayern completed their fifth successive league win. After dropping to sixth in early December, Bayern -- chasing an eighth successive title -- have 39 points from 19 games, one behind RB Leipzig who lost 2-0 at Eintracht Frankfurt earlier on Saturday.

Borussia Moenchengladbach are third on 38 with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-hoffenheim-stun-borussia-dortmund-after-late-strike-269439">Borussia Dortmund</a> on 36. Schalke, on 33, lost ground with the top four. "We wanted to impose our game, our philosophy, and we succeeded," said Bayern coach Hansi Flick. "I wasn't interested in the Leipzig game. The decisive thing today was that we got the three points. We have a stability in the team and that's very important."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewandowski-makes-history-after-scoring-in-first-nine-bundesliga-games-258304">Lewandowski makes history after scoring in first nine Bundesliga games</a>

<img alt="Bayern Munich's Thomas Muller" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2e905bb-4d2d-4f30-85fb-57c4f12cabe5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2886%29_1.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Bayern Munich's Thomas Muller scores their second goal (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Schalke were quickly in trouble as goalkeeper Markus Schubert flapped at a Mueller cross and Ivan Perisic touched the ball to Lewandowski who thumped it into the net. Rabbi Matondo rattled the Bayern bar shortly afterwards which was the last time that Schalke threatened to make a serious contest out of it. Mueller thought he had scored in the 12th minute but it was ruled offside, a decision confirmed by VAR.

Lewandowski also had the ball in the net but it was disallowed following a VAR review for offside in the buildup -- forcing the stadium announcer to stop his goal celebration routine halfway through. Schubert made good saves from Goretzka and Lewandowski but could do nothing in the 45th minute when Goretzka headed the ball into the path of Mueller to add the second.

It quickly got worse for the Royal Blues. Five minutes into the second half, Goretzka's header hit a defender, rebounded straight back and he reacted brilliantly to hook the ball in on the volley. There was no letup as Bayern won possession in midfield, Lewandowski broke down the left and centered the ball for Thiago to turn into an empty net.

Schubert completed a miserable evening as Gnabry's shot slipped through his legs in the 89th minute and the referee appeared to take pity on Schalke as he blew for time on the 90 minutes.

&nbsp;

Bayern Munich fired an ominous warning to the rest of the Bundesliga when they demolished fifth-placed Schalke 04 5-0 on Saturday to close the gap on leaders RB Leipzig to one point.

Bayern Munich fired an ominous warning to the rest of the Bundesliga when they demolished fifth-placed Schalke 04 5-0 on Saturday to close the gap on leaders RB Leipzig to one point. Forward Robert Lewandowski set the Bavarians on their way by scoring his 21st league goal of the season in the sixth minute and, after they had two goals disallowed for offside, Thomas Mueller added the second just before halftime. Leon Goretzka scored a brilliantly improvised third in the 50th minute before Thiago and Serge Gnabry added two more as Bayern completed their fifth successive league win. After dropping to sixth in early December, Bayern -- chasing an eighth successive title -- have 39 points from 19 games, one behind RB Leipzig who lost 2-0 at Eintracht Frankfurt earlier on Saturday. Borussia Moenchengladbach are third on 38 with Borussia Dortmund on 36. Schalke, on 33, lost ground with the top four. "We wanted to impose our game, our philosophy, and we succeeded," said Bayern coach Hansi Flick. "I wasn't interested in the Leipzig game. The decisive thing today was that we got the three points. We have a stability in the team and that's very important." Also Read: Lewandowski makes history after scoring in first nine Bundesliga games [ Bayern Munich's Thomas Muller scores their second goal (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Schalke were quickly in trouble as goalkeeper Markus Schubert flapped at a Mueller cross and Ivan Perisic touched the ball to Lewandowski who thumped it into the net. Rabbi Matondo rattled the Bayern bar shortly afterwards which was the last time that Schalke threatened to make a serious contest out of it. Mueller thought he had scored in the 12th minute but it was ruled offside, a decision confirmed by VAR. Lewandowski also had the ball in the net but it was disallowed following a VAR review for offside in the buildup -- forcing the stadium announcer to stop his goal celebration routine halfway through. Schubert made good saves from Goretzka and Lewandowski but could do nothing in the 45th minute when Goretzka headed the ball into the path of Mueller to add the second. It quickly got worse for the Royal Blues. Five minutes into the second half, Goretzka's header hit a defender, rebounded straight back and he reacted brilliantly to hook the ball in on the volley. There was no letup as Bayern won possession in midfield, Lewandowski broke down the left and centered the ball for Thiago to turn into an empty net. Schubert completed a miserable evening as Gnabry's shot slipped through his legs in the 89th minute and the referee appeared to take pity on Schalke as he blew for time on the 90 minutes.

Bayern demolish Schalke; Lewandowski strikes early

Manchester United was beaten by Burnley 2-0 in their home ground at the Old Trafford stadium on Wednesday. This is their third defeat in the last four matches in the Premier League.

Ole's team was struck by Chris Woods's opening goal and Jay Rodriguez's second-half goals shattered the team's hopes for a league win. They hope for settling for a Champions League spot now.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Not our night at Old Trafford. 
 
The Reds had the ball in the net late on through Shaw, but it was ruled out for a foul in the build-up.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNBUR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUNBUR</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1220105715282579459?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Solskjaer did not defend his team, in fact, he accepted the flaws in the team while the play was on.&nbsp;

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FULL-TIME Man Utd 0-2 Burnley 
 
Chris Wood's strike and Jay Rodriguez's thunderbolt make it two wins in a row for Burnley<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNBUR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUNBUR</a> <a href="https://t.co/wTui0GFpS0">pic.twitter.com/wTui0GFpS0</a>
— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1220105628607242240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"We have got to hold our hands up and say it wasn't good enough. In the first half, we created some half openings but we were not sharp enough to take our chances," Solskjaer said.&nbsp;

The Red Devils at the moment are in fifth place. They are behind Chelsea, they trail by 6 points.&nbsp;

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Some subtle but significant shifts in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> table after Wednesday's action... <a href="https://t.co/F103QPEhHO">pic.twitter.com/F103QPEhHO</a>
— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1220107439598645248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The loss brings new job security fears for Solskjaer as his team hit a new low record, United's tally in points table (34 points) is the lowest since 1989-90.&nbsp;

Club Legend Rio Ferdinand criticised Manchester United's gameplay in the match against Burnley.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Manchester United lacks confidence in the team, they will have to be quick in terms of gathering their scattered confidence before facing the winner between Watford and Tranmere in the FA Cup fourth round. &nbsp;

In the EFL Cup, Ole's Manchester United will look to overturn Manchester City's 3-1 scoreline in the second leg of the semifinals on Thursday. 
&nbsp;

Manchester United was beaten by Burnley 2-0 in their home ground at the Old Trafford stadium on Wednesday. This is their third defeat in the last four matches in the Premier League.

Manchester United was beaten by Burnley 2-0 in their home ground at the Old Trafford stadium on Wednesday. This is their third defeat in the last four matches in the Premier League. Ole's team was struck by Chris Woods's opening goal and Jay Rodriguez's second-half goals shattered the team's hopes for a league win. They hope for settling for a Champions League spot now. Not our night at Old Trafford. The Reds had the ball in the net late on through Shaw, but it was ruled out for a foul in the build-up.#MUFC #MUNBUR — Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 22, 2020 × Solskjaer did not defend his team, in fact, he accepted the flaws in the team while the play was on. FULL-TIME Man Utd 0-2 Burnley Chris Wood's strike and Jay Rodriguez's thunderbolt make it two wins in a row for Burnley#MUNBUR pic.twitter.com/wTui0GFpS0 — Premier League (@premierleague) January 22, 2020 × "We have got to hold our hands up and say it wasn't good enough. In the first half, we created some half openings but we were not sharp enough to take our chances," Solskjaer said. The Red Devils at the moment are in fifth place. They are behind Chelsea, they trail by 6 points. Some subtle but significant shifts in the #PL table after Wednesday's action... pic.twitter.com/F103QPEhHO — Premier League (@premierleague) January 22, 2020 × The loss brings new job security fears for Solskjaer as his team hit a new low record, United's tally in points table (34 points) is the lowest since 1989-90. Club Legend Rio Ferdinand criticised Manchester United's gameplay in the match against Burnley. Manchester United lacks confidence in the team, they will have to be quick in terms of gathering their scattered confidence before facing the winner between Watford and Tranmere in the FA Cup fourth round. In the EFL Cup, Ole's Manchester United will look to overturn Manchester City's 3-1 scoreline in the second leg of the semifinals on Thursday.

Premier League: Manchester United hit new low after getting defeated by Burnley

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has strongly defended himself against claims he put himself first with his ill-fated decision to play Marcus Rashford against Wolves in the FA Cup.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-rashford-sidelined-uniteds-solskjaer-eyes-signings-275370">With Rashford sidelined, Manchester United's manager Solskjaer eyes signings</a>

The United and England striker could be out for three months after suffering a back injury in last week's third-round match, which United won 1-0.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaers-man-utd-scrap-plans-to-set-training-camps-in-middle-east-amidst-high-tensions-274342">Manchester United scrap plans to set training camps in Middle East amid tensions</a>

Former England and Arsenal striker Ian Wright said this week that Solskjaer, under intense pressure to improve the club's fortunes, prioritised his own needs over those of his player.

United are in fifth place in the Premier League, five points behind fourth-placed&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;in the race for the Champions League qualification spots.

But the Norwegian boss insisted that Rashford was fit enough to play in the 1-0 win for United, in which the 22-year-old substitute lasted just 16 minutes.

"I never put myself before the team," Solskjaer said on Tuesday. "I always put the team and the club before anything else.

"Marcus has had minor discomfort in his back since the Burnley game, two weeks before this game (Wolves).

"We've had scans, we've monitored him, there was no injury there, just complaints."

Solskjaer, whose team host Burnley in the Premier League on Wednesday, said he had spoken to Rashford in the build-up to the match.

"I had a conversation with him two days before and told him I was going to rest him," he said. "He felt fine and was very adamant that if needed, he could do at least half an hour as we wanted to go through in the cup.

"That shows you Marcus's attitude."

Solskjaer said he did not regret throwing his star striker into the fray.

"That is part of what you do for Man Utd," he said. "Every time you play, you put your body on the line.

"I've suffered some injuries for the club and that is what you are proud to do when you are a Man Utd player."

Solskjaer's biggest headache now is how to cope without his leading scorer and talisman as he battles to finish in the Premier League's top four.

United's attack looked weak without him in the 2-0 defeat against Liverpool on Sunday and Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood are the only striking options for the Burnley game.

"That is the million-dollar question for us because Marcus has been fantastic," Solskjaer said.

"Someone has got to step up. If we find something in the transfer market, that might be one solution.

"But the best solution is the players stepping up and making sure they are ready and taking the chance."

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has strongly defended himself against claims he put himself first with his ill-fated decision to play Marcus Rashford against Wolves in the FA Cup.

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has strongly defended himself against claims he put himself first with his ill-fated decision to play Marcus Rashford against Wolves in the FA Cup. Also read: With Rashford sidelined, Manchester United's manager Solskjaer eyes signings The United and England striker could be out for three months after suffering a back injury in last week's third-round match, which United won 1-0. Also read: Manchester United scrap plans to set training camps in Middle East amid tensions Former England and Arsenal striker Ian Wright said this week that Solskjaer, under intense pressure to improve the club's fortunes, prioritised his own needs over those of his player. United are in fifth place in the Premier League, five points behind fourth-placed Chelsea in the race for the Champions League qualification spots. But the Norwegian boss insisted that Rashford was fit enough to play in the 1-0 win for United, in which the 22-year-old substitute lasted just 16 minutes. "I never put myself before the team," Solskjaer said on Tuesday. "I always put the team and the club before anything else. "Marcus has had minor discomfort in his back since the Burnley game, two weeks before this game (Wolves). "We've had scans, we've monitored him, there was no injury there, just complaints." Solskjaer, whose team host Burnley in the Premier League on Wednesday, said he had spoken to Rashford in the build-up to the match. "I had a conversation with him two days before and told him I was going to rest him," he said. "He felt fine and was very adamant that if needed, he could do at least half an hour as we wanted to go through in the cup. "That shows you Marcus's attitude." Solskjaer said he did not regret throwing his star striker into the fray. "That is part of what you do for Man Utd," he said. "Every time you play, you put your body on the line. "I've suffered some injuries for the club and that is what you are proud to do when you are a Man Utd player." Solskjaer's biggest headache now is how to cope without his leading scorer and talisman as he battles to finish in the Premier League's top four. United's attack looked weak without him in the 2-0 defeat against Liverpool on Sunday and Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood are the only striking options for the Burnley game. "That is the million-dollar question for us because Marcus has been fantastic," Solskjaer said. "Someone has got to step up. If we find something in the transfer market, that might be one solution. "But the best solution is the players stepping up and making sure they are ready and taking the chance."

Solskjaer hits back after criticism over Rashford injury

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